Analysis of Electrodynamic Screens with Fractal Designs for Enhanced Performance

The negative effect that dusty weather poses on solar panels’ efficiency demands a low-power, cost-effective, and long-term solution. An electrodynamic screen (EDS) is a promising technology that offers self-cleaning capability with high efficiency and eliminates manual labor, robots, and water-based cleaning. An EDS consists of a transparent dielectric laminate with embedded electrodes, typically arranged in a parallel pattern. In this work, we have identified, proposed, and analyzed diverse fractal-based designs (fractal tree, triangular, Hilbert), comparing their performance with traditional layouts (parallel, wave, spiral). Results from finite element analysis show that, in comparison with conventional electrode layouts, fractal-based designs block less light while maintaining higher electric field intensity. Additionally, dust particle trajectory modeling shows that Hilbert fractal design exhibits more efficient cleaning paths. Consequently, this study demonstrates the potential of novel fractal designs applied to EDS. In particular, the Hilbert design showed minimal light blockage, lower power consumption, and a stronger induced electric field compared to other designs.