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Mechatronics / Product Design

Automatic Window Cleaning System

Engineering design and prototype projectMechanical and controls designer
Automatic Window Cleaning System project

Project context

Fixed exterior glazing in residential and high-rise buildings is difficult and hazardous to clean manually. This project investigated whether a compact cleaning mechanism could be integrated into the window frame, serviced from indoors, and operated through repeatable automated cycles without exposing the user to the exterior facade.

Role overview

Shaofu developed a functional frame-scale prototype in Autodesk Inventor, designed the reciprocating scraper drive, fabricated laser-cut and 3D-printed components, integrated Arduino-based end-stop control, and implemented both one-touch and Bluetooth-enabled operating modes.

Technical scope

  • Modeled the frame, pulley supports, guide components, scraper carriage, and motor interface in Autodesk Inventor, then used virtual assembly checks to resolve interference and travel constraints.
  • Built a synchronized transmission around a JGY370 geared motor, lead screws, synchronous belts, and pulleys so both sides of the scraper advanced together.
  • Fabricated the prototype with laser-cut plywood, acrylic glazing, and 3D-printed PLA fixtures selected around cost and workshop constraints.
  • Programmed Arduino control logic for single-pass, three-pass, and manual operation, with limit sensors providing direction reversal and end-stop protection.
  • Created a Bluetooth mobile interface for commanding cleaning cycles and manual left-right movement.

Outcome

  • Demonstrated repeatable reciprocating cleaning motion on a full frame-scale physical prototype.
  • Validated indoor service access for scraper replacement and control-system maintenance.
  • Identified sealing, water management, adjustable scraper preload, and component durability as the next design-development priorities.
Mechanical design

Mechanical design

Inventor models for the drive components, frame members, motor interface, control hardware, and scraper assembly.
Synchronized drive

Synchronized drive

Geared-motor, pulley, and timing-belt hardware used to coordinate motion across the window frame.
Functional prototype

Functional prototype

Assembled frame-scale system with the scraper carriage, guide hardware, limit sensing, and control electronics installed.