For Vehicle Or Wheel-form Work Patents (Class 134/45)
  • Patent number: 11511634
    Abstract: A robot charging system and a control method thereof are provided to determine a charged state and charge a robot through self-driving. The robot charging system includes: a server configured to store boarding information of a user; a robot configured to receive the boarding information from the server, move the user to a destination included in the boarding information by self-driving using charged power, determine a discharge of the power, and move to a charging station for charging; and the charging station provided with a power supply coil to wirelessly supply the power source to the robot, and provided with a moving rail on a top of the power supply coil to sequentially charge a plurality of robots.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2020
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2022
    Assignee: LG ELECTRONICS INC.
    Inventors: Boyeon Kim, Bina Kim, Jinsu Kim, Mina Suh, Jungkyu Son, Hyesun Lee, Jinwon Kang
  • Patent number: 11293693
    Abstract: A modular oven structure includes a frame, a circulation fan at a top of the frame, a tunnel air inlet chamber, a tunnel air return chamber, a tunnel drying chamber between the tunnel air inlet and tunnel air return chambers, a tunnel air inlet plate including air apertures and between the tunnel air inlet and tunnel drying chambers, a tunnel air return plate including air apertures and between the tunnel air return and tunnel drying chambers, a fan air inlet chamber above the tunnel drying chamber, a fan air outlet chamber between the fan air inlet chamber and the top of the frame, a heater, a temperature control system, and a control device. The temperature control system includes one or more temperature sensors in the tunnel air inlet, tunnel air return, and/or tunnel drying chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2018
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2022
    Assignee: JUSHI GROUP CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Jiansong Shao, Haijian Peng
  • Patent number: 10974263
    Abstract: The invention is directed at systems and methods which provide for effective cleaning and drying of vehicles of different shapes and sizes. The invention in one example includes a vehicle washing apparatus comprising a conveyor system to move a vehicle along a path, and a bridge assembly supported above a vehicle and moveable along the length thereof. At least one trolley assembly is operatively supported by the bridge assembly and is moveable in a direction generally transverse to the movement of the bridge assembly. At least one cleaning arm assembly for delivering cleaning fluid to or for brushing the surface of a vehicle is operatively supported by the at least one trolley assembly or bridge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2021
    Assignee: PETIT AUTO WASH, INC.
    Inventor: Thomas J. Petit
  • Patent number: 10376605
    Abstract: A sanitization system for an amusement park includes a compartment disposed in a ride vehicle of an amusement park ride, where the compartment is configured to receive an article of the amusement park ride, an ultraviolet light source disposed in the compartment, where the ultraviolet light source is configured to transmit ultraviolet light toward a surface of the article when the article is positioned in the compartment, and a nozzle disposed in the compartment, wherein the nozzle is configured to direct a sanitizing fluid toward the surface of the article when the article is positioned in the compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2019
    Assignee: Universal City Studios LLC
    Inventors: David Majdali, John Ugrin
  • Patent number: 9022044
    Abstract: A portable vehicle wash system for use during pre-wash and post-wash procedures preferably includes a portable and collapsible free-standing frame capable of may be positioned over an existing vehicle. Such a free-standing frame preferably includes first and second support sections. Each of the first and second support section preferably includes a fluid discharge section, and a plurality of legs integrally formed with the fluid discharge section. Notably, the fluid discharge section of the first support section is isolated from the fluid discharge section of the second support section. A hose is also provided in fluid communication with the free-standing frame. In this manner, the hose may be coupled to an existing water supply source such that water is simultaneously channeled through the free-standing frame and simultaneously dispersed out from the fluid discharge section of each of the first and second support sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Inventor: Christopher Jackson
  • Patent number: 8783271
    Abstract: A waterfall tank system is described for sheeting water onto a passing vehicle. The waterfall tank system includes a tank with a water supply inlet and a soap injector for injecting soap into the water flow to create a soap mix that is supplied to the tank. An air motor is included for providing air to an air manifold that is disposed within the tank. When air is introduced into the soap mix, bubbles are created. As the water, soap mix, and bubbles fill the tank, they fall from the tank via an overflow lip that creates a sheeting action, with the water, soap mix, and/or bubbles sheeting onto a vehicle passing below.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Inventor: G. Thomas Ennis
  • Patent number: 8701589
    Abstract: A tire dressing applicator comprises a support and one or more foam plastic elements mounted on the support so as to contact a tire sidewall and transfer dressing onto the tire sidewall. A distribution system drips or drizzles dressing onto the element(s) after which it is spread over and into the element(s) surface. The elements can be toroidal or rectangular and have anti-distortion pins embedded therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: Belanger, Inc.
    Inventors: David L. Tognetti, Mark D. Morin, Michael J. Belanger, Barry S. Turner
  • Patent number: 8593302
    Abstract: The invention relates to a vehicle treatment installation with a drive-in area for a vehicle to be treated, a treatment gantry that can move along a drive-in direction, and at least one camera for creating an image of the drive-in area and vehicle. Such known vehicle treatment installations often fail and/or are maintenance-intensive. The task of providing an installation and also a method for its operation that simplifies, with simple means, the drive-in process into the correct treatment position for the driver of a vehicle to be treated is achieved by a display device that is visible to the driver of the vehicle during the drive-in process, and at least one mark. The subject matter of the invention is also a method for the operation of the vehicle treatment installation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: WashTec Holding GmbH
    Inventor: Robert Auer
  • Patent number: 8499407
    Abstract: The invention relates to a wiper for vehicle windows that comprises structural members comprising at least a longitudinal substrate (10); a stiffening rod (20) arranged as an extension of said substrate (10); a wiping blade (30) attached to said substrate (10); an accessory (40) including at least one tube (42a, 42b) for spraying a washing liquid, said accessory (40) being assembled on said substrate (10). According to the invention, the wiper further includes means (60a, 60b) for heating the washing liquid, said heating means being included in the tubes (42a, 42b) of the accessory (40).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: Valeo Systèmes d'Essuyage
    Inventors: Gerald Caillot, Jean-Michel Jarasson
  • Patent number: 8424480
    Abstract: A tire coating apparatus that is intended to apply coating fluid to vehicle tires in a vehicle washing system when selected by a patron. The tire coating apparatus includes a pair of mechanical applicators, which each include one or more coating applicators disposed thereon for contacting the vehicle tires to apply a coating fluid thereto when selected by a patron. One mechanical applicator includes one or more coating applicator members that are intended to contact the tires on a right side of a vehicle while the other mechanical applicator includes one or more coating applicators that are intended to contact the tires on a left side of the vehicle. The mechanical applicators also include a guide portion for contacting and guiding the vehicle wheel when a patron had elected not to have a coating fluid applied to the vehicle wheels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: Motor City Wash Works, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert J. Wentworth, Lionel Belanger
  • Patent number: 8418701
    Abstract: A waterfall tank system is described for sheeting water onto a passing vehicle. The waterfall tank system includes a tank with a water supply inlet and a soap injector for injecting soap into the water flow to create a soap mix that is supplied to the tank. An air motor is included for providing air to an air manifold that is disposed within the tank. When air is introduced into the soap mix, bubbles are created. As the water, soap mix, and bubbles fill the tank, they fall from the tank via an overflow lip that creates a sheeting action, with the water, soap mix, and/or bubbles sheeting onto a vehicle passing below.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Inventor: G. Thomas Ennis
  • Patent number: 8397661
    Abstract: A tire dressing applicator station for use in car wash installations wherein the applicators are tolerant of large degrees of vehicle misalignment, misorientation and entry contact shock. In each applicator structure, an additional pivot or “knuckle” is placed in one of two support arms which are pivotally connected between floor anchors and an elongate mounting carriage to which the dressing applicator elements are attached. Flared tire guides are located on the entry ends of the applicator structures to make contact with the tires of approaching vehicles whereby one or both of the two applicator structures is/are reoriented as necessary to accommodate the actual location of the vehicle, whether it be on the intended path of travel or off to one side and/or angularly misoriented relative to die intended path of vehicle travel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: Belanger, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael J. Belanger, David L. Tognetti, Mark D. Morin, Marshall L. Hinson
  • Publication number: 20110155175
    Abstract: A waterfall tank system is described for sheeting water onto a passing vehicle. The waterfall tank system includes a tank with a water supply inlet and a soap injector for injecting soap into the water flow to create a soap mix that is supplied to the tank. An air motor is included for providing air to an air manifold that is disposed within the tank. When air is introduced into the soap mix, bubbles are created. As the water, soap mix, and bubbles fill the tank, they fall from the tank via an overflow lip that creates a sheeting action, with the water, soap mix, and/or bubbles sheeting onto a vehicle passing below.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2009
    Publication date: June 30, 2011
    Inventor: G. Thomas Ennis
  • Patent number: 7935193
    Abstract: A wheel washing assembly contains a machine frame, a pendulum assembly pivotably supported on the machine frame, and two washing manifolds, including a first washing manifold and a second washing manifold, attached to the pendulum assembly. Each of the washing manifolds has a nozzle assembly for ejecting water at a wheel to be washed. The washing manifolds are pivotable between a start washing position and an end washing position by an automatic motion of the pendulum assembly. The washing manifolds further automatically track the wheels to be washes by a motion of one of the wheels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2011
    Assignee: Sonny's Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert J. Hodge, Anthony Analetto, Salvatore Fazio
  • Publication number: 20100326467
    Abstract: A tire dressing applicator station for use in car wash installations wherein the applicators are tolerant of large degrees of vehicle misalignment, misorientation and entry contact shock. In each applicator structure, an additional pivot or “knuckle” is placed in one of two support arms which are pivotally connected between floor anchors and an elongate mounting carriage to which the dressing applicator elements are attached. Flared tire guides are located on the entry ends of the applicator structures to make contact with the tires of approaching vehicles whereby one or both of the two applicator structures is/are reoriented as necessary to accommodate the actual location of the vehicle, whether it be on the intended path of travel or off to one side and/or angularly misoriented relative to die intended path of vehicle travel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2009
    Publication date: December 30, 2010
    Applicant: BELANGER, INC.
    Inventors: Michael J. BELANGER, David L. TOGNETTI, Mark D. MORIN, Marshall L. HINSON
  • Patent number: 7823536
    Abstract: An automatic waxing apparatus and a method thereof are provided. The automatic waxing apparatus includes a movable door-shaped module, at least a waxing module and a controlling module. The movable door-shaped module includes a door-shaped structure capable of moving with respect to the vehicle. The waxing module disposed on the door-shaped structure includes a wax-supplying unit and a wax-polishing unit. The controlling module is coupled to the door-shaped structure, the wax-supplying unit and the wax-polishing unit. The controlling module, according to the information of the vehicle, determines a moving path of the door-shaped structure, a waxing path of the wax-supplying unit, and a polishing path of the wax-polishing unit with respect to the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Assignee: Industrial Technology Research Institute
    Inventors: Hung-Chiao Cheng, Chia-Ming Liu, Ma-Tien Yang, Buh-Shiuh Teng
  • Publication number: 20100206341
    Abstract: An automated vehicle wash system including vehicle wash equipment, a mechanical room and a control module, such as a control pod. The control pod is positioned outside the mechanical room and adjacent the vehicle was equipment so that an operator of the control pod can directly view the wash equipment as the operator adjusts controls of the control pod to precisely regulate materials, such as chemicals and other treatment liquids, delivered by the wash equipment to a vehicle as the vehicle passes along a path.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2009
    Publication date: August 19, 2010
    Applicant: VQ, INC.
    Inventors: Ryan J. Essenburg, Thomas J. Essenburg
  • Patent number: 7775221
    Abstract: A wash station for a vehicle is provided which includes a wash housing having a base with a platform as an upper surface. The platform has a plurality of spray nozzles laterally mounted across the platform. A tower having at least one spray nozzle therein is positioned on each lateral side of the platform. The towers are pivotable for pivoting into recesses in the base during transport. A drive-up approaching ramp is connected to the platform for directing the vehicle to the wash housing. The base houses a fresh water reservoir communicating with the spray nozzles. A control unit which may be housed in one of the towers activates the water delivery to the spray nozzles. The platform is configured with angled plates to direct waste water to a flush port or drain and into a waste reservoir in the base. The waste water can be either dispersed or filtered for recirculation. The base includes a pair of side sections and a central section. The pair of side sections are hingedly connected to the central section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Assignee: Prefix Corporation
    Inventor: Kim A. Zeile
  • Patent number: 7770588
    Abstract: The automated motorcycle wash of the present invention is designed to wash motorcycles ranging in length from 7 feet up to an 11 foot chopper. It will hold a motorcycle positioned within the wash bay securely in place while running a complete 2-step pre-soak cleaner application, a high pressure rinse, a low pressure clear coat protectant application, a spot free rinse, and a double dryer pass. The rear wheel cleaners of the present invention will wash the rear wheel and tires of a motorcycle positioned within the wash bay. The front wheel stop of the present invention will also wash the front wheel and tire of a motorcycle positioned within the wash bay with built in high pressure sprayers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Assignee: Harrell's Equipment & Supply Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen Mark Harrell, Jeffrey Blanton, Rick Blanton, Chad Tearman, Brett Williams, Michael Perkins, Gregory Vondrak
  • Patent number: 7677258
    Abstract: A wheel washing assembly contains a machine frame, a pendulum assembly pivotably supported on the machine frame, and two washing manifolds, including a first washing manifold and a second washing manifold, attached to the pendulum assembly. Each of the washing manifolds has a nozzle assembly for ejecting water at a wheel to be washed. The washing manifolds are pivotable between a start washing position and an end washing position by an automatic motion of the pendulum assembly. The washing manifolds further automatically track the wheels to be washes by a motion of one of the wheels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2010
    Assignee: Sonny's Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert J. Hodge, Anthony Analetto, Salvatore Fazio
  • Publication number: 20100059090
    Abstract: A vehicle washing installation includes a wash bay having a floor for supporting a vehicle to be washed and a washing apparatus for washing a vehicle. An artificial turf covers the floor of the wash bay which functions to pre-filter dirt and debris from the water used to wash the vehicle before the water is passed thru a water filtration system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2008
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventor: G. Thomas Ennis
  • Publication number: 20090250084
    Abstract: A vehicle wheel washer comprising a pair of spaced-apart, mirror image, depending spray arms with spray heads mounted at the lower ends and directed inwardly toward the wheels of a vehicle which passes between the spray heads. The spray arms are mounted pendulum-type from an overhead pivotal support to move in unison between angular displacement positions thereby to follow the wheels of the vehicle being washed for a considerable linear distance to increase the effectiveness of the wheel cleaning operation. A bi-directional hydraulic actuator controls the positions of the pendulum arms in combination with gravitational force.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2008
    Publication date: October 8, 2009
    Applicant: BALANGER, INC.
    Inventors: Michael J. BELANGER, David L. TOGNETTI
  • Patent number: 7582164
    Abstract: A tire dressing system for efficiently and accurately applying tire dressing to vehicle tires. The tire dressing system generally includes a support unit, a spray unit movably positioned within the support unit, an actuator unit connected to the spray unit, a tire sensor to determine the size of a vehicle tire, and a tire position sensor to determine the location of the vehicle tire. The spray unit includes a hollow cone nozzle telescopically supported within the spray unit to adjust the spray pattern applied to the sidewall of the vehicle tire depending upon the size of the vehicle tire. After the size of the vehicle tire is determined, the proximity of the hollow cone nozzle is adjusted to apply the desired spray pattern to the sidewall. The hollow cone nozzle then applies the dressing to the sidewall of the vehicle tire as the vehicle moves by the spray unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2009
    Assignee: Cleaning Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: David Krause, Forrest R. Burton
  • Publication number: 20090205685
    Abstract: A shopping basket washer and sanitizer includes an enclosure fitted with components that facilitate the entry and exit of shopping baskets and related or similar items for the purpose of washing, rinsing, disinfecting and/or drying. Within the apparatus, the baskets are washed, rinsed, disinfected and dried. The apparatus is intended primarily for use inside retail establishments so as to provide a continuous supply of clean and sanitary shopping baskets to customers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2009
    Publication date: August 20, 2009
    Inventor: James R. Metheny
  • Publication number: 20090115164
    Abstract: Mobile restoration vehicles are provided having at least one axle, with the vehicle comprising a base supported by the axle; walls extending vertically from the base of the vehicle; and a roof supported by the walls, the base, walls, and roof defining at least a portion of the perimeter of the vehicle. The first wall can define an opening configured to receive materials to be restored. Within the perimeter along a second wall an ultrasonic cleaning apparatus can be placed. Along a second wall, opposite the first wall, a contaminated material staging area can be placed. The vehicle can include an ultrasonic cleaning apparatus placed along one wall within the trailer, a staging area along another wall within the trailer, and drying shelves within the above bed portion of the trailer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 6, 2007
    Publication date: May 7, 2009
    Inventors: Annissa Coy, Ron Osborne
  • Patent number: 7520282
    Abstract: An automatic swimming pool cleaner includes a body (18) and a wheeled undercarriage (42) for the body. The undercarriage comprises a first submerged surface (14) engaging section (50) and a normally leading second section (52). The second section is pivotable in elevation (?) relative to the first section. The pivotable second section enables the cleaner to negotiate sharp corners between a floor (14) and a wall (16) of the pool and further lengths a wheelbase provided by the first section during reverse motion of the cleaner. A surface engaging brake (81) on the second section facilitates change of direction during reverse motion of the cleaner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2009
    Assignee: Pentair Water Pool and Spa, Inc.
    Inventor: Herman Stoltz
  • Patent number: 7509964
    Abstract: An automotive glass washer arrangement includes a washer pump having an outlet in fluid connection with at least one automotive glass washer nozzle. The arrangement comprises a fluid coupling having a female element with a chamber therein. A replaceable filter is disposed in the chamber. The fluid coupling further has a male element connected to the female element wherein the female element is in fluid communication with the washer pump and the male element is in fluid communication with the at least one nozzle. In a preferred embodiment, the female element is connected to the washer pump with a first hose and the male element is connected to the washer nozzle with a second hose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2009
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: James D. Fistler, Thomas W. Cox
  • Publication number: 20080314420
    Abstract: A cleaning system for a hopper used to transport and convey salt and sand. The cleaning system includes a fluid supply system that creates a first fluid flow path that takes water from the inlet end of the fluid supply system to an interior chamber of the hopper. A second fluid flow path is created between the inlet end of the fluid supply system to a conveyor system of the hopper. Thus, two fluid flow paths are created to simultaneously clean the interior chamber of a hopper and a conveyor system of the hopper using a single water source.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 22, 2007
    Publication date: December 25, 2008
    Applicant: RT DESIGN, LLC
    Inventor: Rick R. Riley
  • Patent number: 7383845
    Abstract: A portable washing device to be used to wash vehicles, consisting of a water supply tank (1), a gravity-flow supply hose (2) leading to a pressurizing pump (3), the pressurizing pump, a distribution hose (4), an underbody washer mechanism (5) of booms (6), rollers (7), and spray nozzles (8) and hand-held wands with nozzles (9) for spraying the wash water and nozzles for a final rinse, a waterproof fabric mat (10) and collection and cleaning system (11) for collecting and recycling the used wash water. Tire ramps (12) protect the distribution hose from crushing and damage as the vehicle being washed passes over the hoses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2008
    Inventor: David Dieziger
  • Patent number: 7143464
    Abstract: When vehicle wheels are powder-coated with powder coating, those surfaces on which no coating is wanted are always also coated. To suck off the powder coating from these surface areas before it is baked in, a device which includes a conveyor system, an electronic camera and a suction station is used. The electronic camera records the axial and angular position of the vehicle wheels which pass it, and supplies corresponding data to a controller. After a certain time delay, this causes a suction head in the suction station to move, in such a way that it approaches the vehicle wheel with appropriate alignment of its axis and angular position, and using suction nozzles sucks off those surfaces of the vehicle wheel on which the powder coating is not wanted. During the suction process, the suction head moves together with the vehicle wheel, at the same speed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2006
    Assignee: Eisenmann Maschinenbau KG
    Inventor: Jürgen Brosi
  • Patent number: 6936104
    Abstract: A vehicle tire dressing apparatus according to the present invention comprises left and right dressing applicators situated alongside a vehicle conveying track, the dressing applicators being moveable individually into contacting engagement with tires on left and right sides of a vehicle in the track. Each applicator has an applicator pad mounted to a mount bar and the mount bar is hinged to a frame which allows articulation of the applicator pad into and out of contact with the tires. The applicator pad is configured with a plurality of orifices, each of which orifices receives fluid sprayed from a complimentary spray nozzle. Each orifice has an elongated capillary which assists dispersing fluid into the pad. The spray nozzles emit fluid into the pads for a predetermined amount of time, the spraying being initiated by movement of the vehicle into proximity with the tire dressing assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2005
    Assignee: Simoniz USA, Inc.
    Inventor: William M. Gorra
  • Patent number: 6871658
    Abstract: A washout system for cleaning concrete and other materials from the inside surface of a concrete mixer drum with a fluid is provided. The concrete mixer drum mounted to a concrete truck or the like with the fluid stored in a predetermined fluid source with the fluid source activatable to release fluid. The washout system comprises a telescoping pipe assembly extendible into the mixer drum with the telescoping pipe assembly having a first end and a second end and the first end fluidly connected to the fluid source. A spray bar is fluidly connected to the second end of the telescoping pipe assembly and a plurality of nozzles positioned circumferentially about and longitudinally along the spray bar wherein upon activation of the fluid source, thereby introducing fluid into the telescoping pipe assembly, the second end of the telescoping pipe assembly extends into the mixer drum.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2005
    Inventor: Robert Gjestvang
  • Patent number: 6772773
    Abstract: A heated wheel/tire cleaner applicator system is used in car washes to clean wheels and tires on vehicles. The system is comprised of a cleaning solution supply system and circulating hot water system. The cleaning solution supply system pumps cleaning solution from a tank, through a pipe having an inline, flow-regulating valve, to spray nozzles on the distal flow end of the pipe. An applicator box houses the distal flow end of the pipe and a small hot water tank. The circulating hot water system maintains a constant heated water temperature in the tank. The hot water in the tank heats cleaning solution flowing in the distal flow end of the pipe by convection. A trigger device in the car wash opens and closes the valve to regulate the flow of cleaning solution through the distal flow end of the pipe and spray nozzles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2004
    Inventor: Timothy V. Taylor
  • Publication number: 20040069328
    Abstract: A car wash includes a frame, a guide rail device for moving the car to be washed, and a cleaning apparatus. The cleaning apparatus includes a pair of first cleaning mechanisms and a pair of second cleaning mechanisms. Each of the first cleaning mechanism and the second cleaning mechanisms includes a pivotal frame, a cleaning unit attached to the pivotal frame, and a return unit for returning the pivotal frame to its initial position. The pivotal frames are returned to their position by gravity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2002
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventor: Shiuh-You Lin
  • Patent number: 6709530
    Abstract: The invention relates to an operating method and a vehicle cleaning system comprising at least one treatment device, a control unit and a device for the optical detection of a vehicle. According to said method a vehicle entering or situated in the system is optically detected by a camera system inside the vehicle cleaning system. The data are entered into the control unit so as to control or regulate one or more system functions. Said data can be used in particular to control a drive-in aid or the treatment device which comprises washing brushes, high-pressure nozzles, dryer nozzles, etc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Assignee: Washtec Holding GmbH
    Inventors: Wolfgang Dietsch, Walter Klos
  • Patent number: 6679275
    Abstract: In order to further develop a vehicle washing installation comprising at least one nozzle arrangement which is movable past a vehicle to be cleaned in the longitudinal and transverse directions thereof and is adapted to be supplied with a cleaning liquid for cleaning the vehicle, so that it is of structurally simpler design and is less susceptible to failure, it is proposed, in accordance with the invention, that the nozzle arrangement comprise at least two groups of nozzles, with a first group of nozzles facing the vehicle to be cleaned during a transverse movement of the nozzle arrangement and a second group of nozzles facing the vehicle to be cleaned during a longitudinal movement of the nozzle arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Alfred Kaercher GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Michael Heinze, Oliver Berger
  • Publication number: 20020162576
    Abstract: An automatic vehicle washing system is described. The vehicle washing system incorporates an elongated overhead cleaning platform for cleaning the front, top and rear surfaces of a vehicle. The overhead cleaning platform is attached to a single lift mechanism at a first end and is suspended from a belt at a second end, wherein the belt is also operatively connected to the first end. Accordingly, vertical movement of the lift actuator causes both ends of the platform to uniformly rise or descend. The platform further comprises a pivotal boom with fluid nozzles attached thereto, and a reciprocating pivotal actuator. The reciprocating pivotal actuator is capable of pivotal movement to any number of angular orientations within its operative range of motion. Advantageously, the pivotal and vertical positions of the nozzles can be independently varied, permitting the location of the overhead cleaning nozzles to be optimized for various vehicle profiles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2002
    Publication date: November 7, 2002
    Inventors: Daniel A. Fratello, David M. Gauthier
  • Patent number: 6461685
    Abstract: A method is disclosed for using a vehicle tire dressing apparatus which includes left and right dressing applicators situated alongside a vehicle conveying track, the dressing applicators being moveable individually into contacting engagement with tires on left and right sides of a vehicle in the track. Each applicator has an applicator pad mounted to a mount bar and the mount bar is hinged to a frame which allows articulation of the applicator pad into and out of contact with the tires. The applicator pad is configured with a plurality of orifices, each of which orifices receives fluid sprayed from a complimentary spray nozzle. Each orifice has an elongated capillary which assists dispersing fluid into the pad. The spray nozzles emit fluid into the pads for a predetermined amount of time, the spraying being initiated by movement of the vehicle into proximity with the tire dressing assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2002
    Assignee: Simoniz USA, Inc.
    Inventor: William M. Gorra
  • Patent number: 6383295
    Abstract: The tire dressing apparatus is controlled by a carwash controller operated typically by an attendant at the carwash. The width of a vehicle entering the carwash is determined mechanically by an index arm, the identification of the vehicle selected for application of the tire dressing fluid to the vehicle's tires, and a programmable logic controller controls a spraying sequence by controlling the time intervals between the activation of solenoids controlling fluid release through nozzles during each vehicle tire dressing cycle. The programmable logic controller includes sufficient memory to keep track of the vehicle in the carwash que or in the carwash in the event of some mechanical or electrical interruptions to the carwash operation. A unique nozzle design has been provided to obtain the desired fluid distribution and coverage on the vehicle tires.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Inventors: William M. Frederick, Jr., Bryant P. Ruder, Stanley R. Weber
  • Patent number: 6325863
    Abstract: A method of washing a vehicle is described which can accommodate vehicles having a wide variety of different lengths and does not require a motorized system to move the vehicle through the vehicle washing apparatus. The method includes the steps of moving a movable washing member around four sides of the vehicle by moving the washing member 360 degrees on a continuous track and the track moves longitudinally on a plurality of fixed rails, washing the vehicle with the movable washing member, and sensing a vehicle position and length and controlling motion of the track on the fixed rails based on the sensed vehicle position and length.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2001
    Assignee: Miracle Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew Zamensky, Kent Oltmann
  • Patent number: 6055996
    Abstract: In order to reuse dishes, cutlery, glassware and other food service utensils onboard an aircraft, a washing apparatus is provided as a part of the food service system onboard the aircraft. The apparatus includes a service trolley and a washing unit that may be coupled together to form a washing chamber within the trolley. The washing unit is installed within a trolley parking bay in a galley of the aircraft and is connected to a water supply and a power supply. The trolley is equipped with racks for receiving the dirty utensils, and the washing unit is equipped with water spray arms that reach into the trolley into clearance spaces between the racks. The dirty utensils are collected from passengers directly into the service trolley, which is then wheeled into position in the trolley parking bay, and coupled to the washing unit. Thereby, the utensils may be collected, cleaned, stored, and reused, with only minimal handling, cost, and space requirements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2000
    Assignee: DaimlerChrysler Aerospace Airbus GmbH
    Inventors: Wilfried Sprenger, Jens Harten, Bernd Roessner
  • Patent number: 6055994
    Abstract: In this underbody washing device for motor vehicles, on a frame which is movable relative to the vehicle (F) in the latter's longitudinal direction (L) there are provided two pairs of spraying arms (3a, 3b; 4a, 4b) fitted with multiple spray nozzles, which arms are each pivotably disposed about a vertical pivoting axis (A1, A2) near to the ground on opposing sides (1a, 1b) of the frame. To the spraying arms (3a, 3b; 4a, 4b) are assigned actuating motors (6a, 6b), by means of which the spraying arms can be swung in under the base of the vehicle into their swung-in position running transversely to the longitudinal direction of the vehicle (L) and swung out into a second, swung-out position running parallel to the longitudinal direction of the vehicle (L).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2000
    Assignee: Wesumat Fahrzeugwaschanlagen GmbH
    Inventor: Wolfgang Decker
  • Patent number: 5911231
    Abstract: A drive-through vehicle wash of the type including a plurality of gantries defining a tunnel through which the vehicle passes and including a plurality of longitudinally spaced work stations along the tunnel for performing respective operations associated with the washing of the vehicle. A utility carrier is provided to facilitate delivery of the various utility lines (such as soapy water, clear water, electric power, hydraulic power, and hot air) to the various work stations. The utility carrier comprises a ladder structure positioned above the gantries and a plurality of U-shaped brackets positioned on top of the gantries. The ladder structure has a closed loop configuration overlying the gantries and includes an entry section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 15, 1999
    Assignee: Belanger, Inc.
    Inventors: Barry S. Turner, Thomas E. Weyandt
  • Patent number: 5896875
    Abstract: An equipment for cleaning, etching and drying a semiconductor wafer is provided with a process chamber having a closed space of which temperature is capable of being heated and adjusted by a heater; a mesh arranged at the center part in the process chamber and supporting at least one semiconductor wafer to be cleaned; a plurality of spray nozzles arranged in line at the upper part in the process chamber; and a rotary discharge nozzle arranged at the lower part in the process chamber. The spray nozzles spray chemical and ultrapure water with nitrogen gas in mist state, and the rotary discharge nozzle blows out chemical and ultrapure water as jet stream by rotation of a first arm and second arms thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 27, 1999
    Assignee: Matsushita Electronics Corporation
    Inventor: Kenji Yoneda
  • Patent number: 5671761
    Abstract: A vehicle wash system having a nozzle for directing a spray of a fluid wash medium at a vehicle for washing the vehicle in which, after the vehicle has passed the spray path, the fluid spray contacts a switch on the opposite side of the vehicle wash that is aligned with the spray path to actuate the switch. The switch is used to shut-off the fluid spray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 30, 1997
    Assignee: InterClean Equipment, Inc.
    Inventor: Pasi Kaipainen
  • Patent number: 5413128
    Abstract: A personal automatic car wash is provided which includes an enclosure for the car. A movable fluid dispensing assembly is mounted on a track in the enclosure so that fluids can be dispensed to the surfaces of a stationary car situated within the enclosure. The fluid dispensing assembly is driven by a drive motor longitudinally back and forth about the car while fluids are dispensed to the car. Under computer control, the fluid dispensing assembly sequentially sprays a heated soap/water mixture under relatively low pressure and then a heated rinse water under relatively high pressure to clean the car. A steam-bath like atmosphere is thus provided which enhances the removal of dirt from the car and the cleaning of the car without the use of abrasive cleansers. A spot free water rinse is applied to the car to further clean the car.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 9, 1995
    Inventor: James N. Butts
  • Patent number: 5387736
    Abstract: A portable decontamination system including a carriage for carrying an operator and a decontamination unit is moved to the site of a truck mounted environmental well drilling rig. The carriage is displaced along the length of the substantially upright rig via a lift, whereupon the operator remotely operates the decontamination unit for washing the rig. Contaminated wash water resulting from washing the rig is caught in a pan for subsequent disposal, or decontamination and re-use, as the case may be.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 7, 1995
    Assignee: Salomone Bros., Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph Salomone, Paul Salomone, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5363866
    Abstract: The invention provides a method of cleaning containers, particularly bottles, in which the bottles to be cleaned are continuously moved in uniform spatial orientation past a row of jet nozzles ejecting a cleaning agent. Each time a bottle passes a particular jet nozzle, that jet nozzle is aligned with the bottle mouth during a certain portion of the path of motion of the bottle. This follower motion is positively effected by means of a catch member provided at the jet nozzle. The advantage of the method according to the invention lies in the fact that each jet nozzle is aligned with the bottle mouth during a relatively long period of time and, thus, is able to clean the bottle more effectively. The jet nozzle can be mounted at the end of a swiveling lever arm member being under the influence of a spring member forcing the lever member back to an initial position. A cleaning apparatus can provide a row of such jet nozzles which are swiveling independently from each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 15, 1994
    Assignee: VTZ Engineering & Services AG
    Inventor: Walter C. Egger
  • Patent number: 5288334
    Abstract: A system and a method are disclosed for controlling structural deterioration of a vehicle parking structure by arresting deterioration caused by road salt erosion and corrosion of concrete floors and reinforcing steel in that structure. The invention includes spray washing the underside of vehicles prior to entry into the parking structure to remove road salt and thereby reduce road salt corrosive action within the facility. The invention further comprises arresting corrosion due to road salt which already has penetrated the concrete floors within the parking structure by the application of a chemical detergent which neutralizes the road salt that previously has penetrated the concrete.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 1992
    Date of Patent: February 22, 1994
    Assignee: A and T Development Corporation
    Inventor: Arthur C. Avril
  • Patent number: 5226436
    Abstract: Wheel sensor treadleplates are provided in both wheel tracks of a car wash and the outermost depressed treadleplates send signals to a programmable controller which moves the spray head to a predetermined spacing from the vehicle side for optimum washing and safety as the spray head moves along both sides of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 1992
    Date of Patent: July 13, 1993
    Assignee: Ryko Manufacturing Co.
    Inventor: Benjamin L. Kirby