Automatic installation of photovoltaic panels

Can a robot install solar modules autonomously?

Maximo, the world’s only robot solution for the full end-to-end automation of mechanical installation of solar modules, will autonomously install a section of solar modules at AES’ solar project in partnership with Amazon.

How does a robot install solar panels?

Suction cups grip the glass face of the solar panels and the arm swings them into place, guided by cameras that give the robot a three-dimensional view of the scene. The robot’s limitations give a glimpse of how hard it’s going to be to completely automate the installation process.

How much does it cost to install solar panels?

According to PV Kraftwerker, a construction firm specializing in solar parks, installations that used to require 35 workers can now be done with just three workers in an eighth the time. For a 14-megawatt solar plant, the company estimates, it might cost about $2 million to install the panels manually.

Can robots install ground-mounted solar panels?

Now companies such as PV Kraftwerker and Gehrlicher in Germany are developing mobile robots that can automatically install ground-mounted solar panels day and night, in all sorts of weather. PV Kraftwerker’s robot is designed to assemble power-plant-grade solar panels, which are four times the size of the ones you’d see on a home.

Which companies automate the construction of solar farms?

Other vendors automating the construction of solar farms include Sarcos and AES. Both companies deploy specialized vehicles with robotic arms to automate module transportation and installation. Watch AES ’ Atlas solar robot at work below.

What is a solar installation robot?

The AES Corporation today announced the launch of Atlas, a new first-of-its-kind solar installation robot. Atlas represents a major advancement in solar energy technology, making it faster, more efficient and safer to construct new solar facilities.