Stefan Hamminga
The basic details
The basic goal of the Scrobby Solar project is to develop a robot that is able to clean solar panels autonomously. This with an affordable price target (350 euros) and minimal modifications to the system. After comparing some options I chose to work with just rain water for the cleaning actions (no need for a water supply, no frost issues in winter) and a tether based motion system.
A quick intro vid
Despite my video production talents and with some quick help of my sister I've managed to upload a quick introduction video. It shows some of the making process, plus some test runs on my small scale testing setup (which is a lot easier to work on than climb a roof and dance for rain every time I want to test something).
Before heading into the electronic designs I'd like to go over the mechanics of the second prototype and the changes made. I think it'll clarify some of the demands put on the electric designs I'll be discussing later on.
I'm going to kick off this project documentation by showing you some, hopefully, interesting details about the mechanical parts, the 3D printing work and putting it together.
Maximiliano Palay
Nick Rehm
Michael Graham
Colin Kingsbury
This product is still needed in the world. Any chance you'll attempt to resurrect the project?