Fault detection and identification of solar panels using Bluetooth

Abstract

A solar cell panel as an efficient power source for the generation of electrical energy has long been considered. Any damage on the solar panel's surface lead to reduced production of power loss in the yield. Defects are caused by mechanical & chemical natural factors stressing the panel operating in field, such as snow, sun, wind and severe cold. Further stress factors are based on the thermal cycles of the cells involving contracting, expanding solder and wire interconnects. In this case, identification of defects in the solar panel is essential to be performed to obtain a product of high quality. Already so many methods are available to find the defect, but in any event non-contact, nondestructive and efficient testing methods are necessary. This project proposes an automated inspection system based on a Bluetooth for solar panel application in order to detect any minute cracks which may be appeared on the surface of solar panel. The power value has been calculated based on the current value updated from the current sensor to user by using Bluetooth. The sensor updates status of the solar panels through the android mobile using Bluetooth. This operation is based on the embedded systems. Each solar cell in the panels is connected to individual current sensors. The sensor output is connected to the microcontroller through ADC. When there is a crack in the cell then its output will become low. The microcontroller estimates the current sensor output to the threshold value. If the value is less than threshold then the microcontroller indicates that to the Android mobile through the Bluetooth. The user can monitor current and power level. The Bluetooth is more safe and sustainable for power level and it has to collect the output in wireless mode for more efficiency and security.