Germany-based Sun-X has received a patent from the European Patent Office for a sensor that detects the contamination level of PV modules.
The Sunsoric sensor uses a light source that shines over the surface of the PV module. Dust and dirt particles on the glass reflect light differently than a clean window, and a receiving diode captures this difference for calculation.
According to Sun-X, the sensor’s algorithm can assess yield loss due to contamination with an accuracy of 1%. The system adjusts for contamination of the light source and receiver, and this reliability has been confirmed by an unspecified Fraunhofer Institute.
This information is processed via a cloud, integrating system design and weather data to determine optimal cleaning time. Sun-X also offers the “sunbotics” cleaning robot for this purpose.
“We have been working on Sunsoric for more than three years – always with the goal of determining accurate contamination data,” said Pascal Liebold, founder and director of Sun-X. “This is the most important factor when calculating the ideal cleaning time. The patent is a huge milestone and will help us continue to grow and expand our technological lead.”
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