Car Cleaning Plants Patents (Class 15/DIG2)
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Patent number: 5167044Abstract: A drive-through wash of a type in which a vehicle is translated forwardly along a longitudinal axis is disclosed. The wash includes a frame affixed to the floor and sized to allow the vehicle to pass therethrough. Right and left side washers are attached to the frame and are longitudinally aligned with one another for washing the right and left sides of the vehicle. Right and left side tire washers are connected to the frame, extend longitudinally generally parallel to the longitudinal axis, and wash tires as the vehicle passes through the wash. A curtain washer is attached to the frame in lateral alignment with the right and left side washers and extends into the path of the vehicle. Right and left wraparound washers, each respectively having an elongated right and left booms are horizontally, pivotably attached to the frame on opposite sides, above the path of the vehicle, and extend rearwardly therefrom.Type: GrantFiled: April 2, 1992Date of Patent: December 1, 1992Assignee: Belanger, Inc.Inventors: Michael J. Belanger, Barry S. Turner
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Patent number: 5148570Abstract: A car washing system having mitter curtains which are constructed and manipulated in a manner providing effective washing action over the entire vehicle surface during the wash cycle. Additionally, this invention provides a roll-over type wash system which allows the operator to select between a variety of operational modes, including contact and non-contact modes and various wash cycle durations. The invention utilizes a "roll-up" configuration for attaching the mitter curtains to the roll-over washing apparatus. At least one overhead support attaches to a gantry above the path for the vehicle. A number of roller bars attach to the support substantially parallel to one another and extend across the path. Each of the mitter curtains attach to corresponding roller bars, and movement of the support, therefore, produces a scrubbing motion in the mitter curtains. A drive mechanism rotates the roller bars about their lengthwise axes to roll, or unroll, the mitter curtains.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 1991Date of Patent: September 22, 1992Assignee: Bivens Winchester CorporationInventors: Lonnie M. Crotts, William W. Rambo
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Patent number: 5134742Abstract: A curtain used in a mechanized vehicle washing system includes a base mounting the curtain for reciprocating motion and a plurality of elongated strips hanging downwardly from the base. Each strip has two opposite side surfaces. A plurality of independently movable shingles are provided on the two opposite side surfaces of each of the plurality of elongated strips. Each shingle is made of a deep pile, fur-like material.Type: GrantFiled: May 8, 1991Date of Patent: August 4, 1992Assignee: N/S CorporationInventor: G. Thomas Ennis
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Patent number: 5133100Abstract: For washing the exterior of large vehicles such as trailers, busses, or truck tractors a portable washing device including a rotating brush assembly which can be raised and lowered. Water or other liquid can be supplied to the brush assembly for washing the vehicle. The entire device is mounted on a transmitting chassis capable of sharp turns especially in one direction so that it can move around the vehicle to be washed. The brush is also movable to a horizontally disposed carrying position, or can be tilted to maintain contact with the vehicle even when either it or the washer is on uneven ground.Type: GrantFiled: April 12, 1991Date of Patent: July 28, 1992Inventors: James D. Hill, James W. Shell
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Patent number: 5125981Abstract: The apparatus and method is utilized in a drive-through vehicle washing system of the type in which a vehicle is moved by conveyor along a longitudinal path across a floor surface, past a series of washing stations. The apparatus attaches to a parallelogram linkage such as that of a tire washing station and includes a manifold for spraying pressurized liquid at the vehicle wheels from an outlet nozzle. The manifold is carried by a drive mechanism which translates the manifold longitudinally to follow the vehicle wheel passing thereby for a distance sufficient for the stream of liquid to claims the entire wheel circumference. A flow control valve for regulating the flow of liquid is provided along with a sensor for detecting wheel position. A control mechanism regulates the movement of the manifold and the flow of pressurized liquid causing the manifold to move at a speed substantially equal to that of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 1990Date of Patent: June 30, 1992Assignee: Belanger, Inc.Inventors: Michael J. Belanger, Graham J. Astley
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Patent number: 5123136Abstract: The apparatus and method is utilized in a drive-through vehicle washing system of the type in which a vehicle is moved by conveyor along a longitudinal path across a floor surface, past a series of washing stations. The apparatus attaches to a parallelogram linkage such as that of a tire washing station and includes a manifold for spraying pressurized liquid at the vehicle wheels from an outlet nozzle. The manifold is carried by a drive mechanism which translates the manifold longitudinally to follow the vehicle wheel passing thereby for a distance sufficient for the stream of liquid to clean the entire wheel circumference. A flow control valve for regulating the flow of liquid is provided along with a sensor for detecting wheel position. A control mechanism regulates the movement of the manifold and the flow of pressurized liquid causing the manifold to move at a speed substantially equal to that of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 1991Date of Patent: June 23, 1992Assignee: Belanger, Inc.Inventors: Michael J. Belanger, Graham J. Astley
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Patent number: 5117411Abstract: A lens cleaner in the form of a disk provided on a compact disk (CD) player using a method for cleaning a pick-up lend of the CD player. Some brushing hair bundles have substantially the same shape as the disk and comprise a plurality of brushing hair bundles planted on a surface of the disk so as to disperse in the circumferential direction and the radial direction. Even though these hair bundles are brought into contact with the pick-up lens, the rotational capacity of the disk is not deteriorated so that the lens surface is not damaged and the lens can be effectively cleaned.Type: GrantFiled: March 5, 1990Date of Patent: May 26, 1992Inventor: Hiromu Nakagawa
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Patent number: 5115531Abstract: The present invention provides an aircraft washing equipment, characterized in that it comprises a sub-arm that rotates at the tip of an ascendable and descendable arm by means of a shaft with a base perpendicular to the arm, and is movably controlled by a drive mechanism; a brush oscillating frame rotated by a drive mechanism at the tip of the sub-arm, and which base rotates by means of a shaft perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the sub-arm and a shaft at the tip of the arm; a brush swivelling frame that is swivelled by a drive mechanism centering around the axis of the longitudinal direction of the brush oscillating frame; a brush arm attached to a hinge on both sides of the brush swivelling frame, disposed bendably in a plane which is parallel to the swivelling plane of the brush swivelling frame, and is bent by a drive mechanism; a center shaft of a rotating brush attached on brackets parallel to the brush swivelling frame and the brush arm, mutually coupled with a universal joint, with theirType: GrantFiled: June 21, 1990Date of Patent: May 26, 1992Assignee: Suzuki Mechanical Engineering Co., Ltd.Inventor: Tsuneo Suzuki
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Patent number: 5110049Abstract: A boom system for dispensing fluids in which two or more boom arms are mounted for rotation on a fixed tubular member. Each boom arm is capable of unlimited angular rotation about the axis of the tubular member and first and second fluids are independently directed to the first and second boom arms, respectively, for discharge thereby.Type: GrantFiled: November 27, 1990Date of Patent: May 5, 1992Assignee: Dilling-Harris and Ginsan, Inc.Inventors: A. Joe Harris, Wallace L. Grace
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Patent number: 5098023Abstract: An apparatus for assisting in the hand washing of cars. Several tubes semi-surround a vehicle path. Each tube has nozzles directed at the path. Each tube may be supplied with a different washing fluid. The tubes are mounted in a housing. A radio remote control actuates each fluid separately.Type: GrantFiled: August 19, 1988Date of Patent: March 24, 1992Assignee: Leslie A. CooperInventor: William P. Burke
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Patent number: 5093951Abstract: A top brush interrupt system for a vehicle wash system particularly adapted for pickup trucks that includes a top brush rotatable on a generally horizontal cross shaft that journalled in a pair of spaced arms that are pivoted on a frame for movement toward and away from the top of the vehicle to be washed. The interrupt system includes a proximity switch on the frame cooperating with a proximity target on one of the arms for sensing when the top brush is in position on top of the vehicle and for indicating when the top brush is not on the top of the vehicle and associated circuitry including timing means for terminating rotation of the top brush and/or raising the top brush from the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: May 29, 1990Date of Patent: March 10, 1992Assignee: Ryko Manufacturing CompanyInventors: Terrence J. Smith, Richard M. Grier
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Patent number: 5092012Abstract: An aircraft buffing machine includes a main telescopic boom mounted for up and down movement on a mobile unit. A rotary boom is carried on the end of the main boom and mounts on its outer end a pivot boom having a telescopic floating boom carrying a buffing head. Controls for the machine automatically move the main boom up and down if the floating boom is fully retracted or fully extended so that the buffing head is able to follow the contour of a work surface. If the buffing head pivots excessively on the floating boom, corrective action is automatically taken. A safety bar system extending around the buffing head shuts the machine down is an obstacle is encountered.Type: GrantFiled: January 16, 1990Date of Patent: March 3, 1992Inventors: William B. Rabourn, Daniel R. Heckart
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Patent number: 5077859Abstract: A deep pile, fur-like material is used in an automated vehicle washing apparatus to simulate a vehicle hand wash. The vehicle washing apparatus uses a resilient drum constructed of a pair of spaced apart disks and an elastic cord which extends between the disks around the circumference of each disk. A cover is wrapped around the cord, and over a portion of the plates, so that the cover rotates with the plates, which rotate with the shaft. The cover includes a plurality of shingles which extend radially outwardly under centrifugal force. The shingles are preferably made of a deep pile fur-like material. Alternatively, a foam core member wrapped around a rotatable support carries a cover which is made of deep pile, fur-like material.Type: GrantFiled: February 8, 1990Date of Patent: January 7, 1992Assignee: N/S CorporationInventor: G. Thomas Ennis
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Patent number: 5068977Abstract: An apparatus for removing water from a curved glass panel after washing in a production line, includes nozzles which are movable upwardly and downwardly in response to variations of the height of the curved glass panel above the conveyor so as to be held at desired positions adjacent to the upper and lower surfaces of the glass panel. The nozzles are variable in inclination so as to be positioned more desiredly relative to the glass panel.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 1990Date of Patent: December 3, 1991Assignee: Central Glass Company, LimitedInventors: Hideichi Syori, Haruhisa Suda
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Patent number: 5052629Abstract: The apparatus and method is utilized in a drive-through vehicle washing system of the type in which a vehicle is moved by conveyor along a longitudinal path across a floor surface, past a series of washing stations. The apparatus attaches to a parallelogram linkage such as that of a tire washing station and includes a manifold for spraying pressurized liquid at the vehicle wheels from an outlet nozzle. The manifold is carried by a drive mechanism which translates the manifold longitudinally to follow the vehicle wheel passing thereby for a distance sufficient for the stream of liquid to claims the entire wheel circumference. A flow control valve for regulating the flow of liquid is provided along with a sensor for detecting wheel position. A control mechanism regulates the movement of the manifold and the flow of pressurized liquid causing the manifold to move at a speed substantially equal to that of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 1990Date of Patent: October 1, 1991Assignee: Belanger, Inc.Inventors: Michael J. Belanger, Graham J. Astley
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Patent number: 5048147Abstract: An apparatus and method are disclosed that aid an accessory of an automobile wash system in being positioned accurately with respect to a particular automobile's width. The system consists of an abutment that is positioned within the path of the conveyed automobile and which will be pivoted out of the path by contact with the automobile. The extent of the pivoting of the abutment from the path of the automobile will give an indication of the width of the automobile. A hydraulic circuit communicates this information to a hydraulic cylinder that controls the positioning of the accessory and can position the accessory to account for the width of the individual automobile. An electronic sensor system is positioned downstream of the accessory and will sense when the automobile has left the automobile wash assembly, at which time the sensor will initiate a signal that returns the members to their original position.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 1990Date of Patent: September 17, 1991Assignee: Belanger, Inc.Inventors: James A. Belanger, Robert J. Wentworth, Graham J. Astley
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Patent number: 5033489Abstract: A transportable, self-contained work site, designed specifically to facilitate manual vehicle washing and engine cleaning, comprising a rigid skeletal structure which is constructed of preformed, connectable modules and a lightweight raised platform or flooring which slopes inwardly to capture liquids for recycling.Type: GrantFiled: April 20, 1990Date of Patent: July 23, 1991Assignee: Autoglym America CorporationInventors: F. Budd Ferre, Rowell Sims, Vibert L. Kesler, James B. Mayfield
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Patent number: 5004536Abstract: A water reclamation apparatus for recycling water in a system including a reclamation tank for holding water to be recycled, a first conduit for conveying water to the reclamation tank, a second conduit for conveying water from the reclamation tank, an outlet hose extending from the second conduit to a point beneath the level of the water in the reclamation tank, the outlet hose including two check valves operatively connected in series to allow water to flow through the outlet hose from the reclamation tank, and to prevent water from flowing into the reclamation tank from the outlet hose under conditions where one of the check valves is held in an open position. The outlet hose is flexible and can be extended through an access portion of the reclamation tank to allow the check valves to be serviced.Type: GrantFiled: April 25, 1989Date of Patent: April 2, 1991Inventor: Edward Geisler
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Patent number: 4999763Abstract: The present invention provides for an improved access, control and monitoring system for a facility with multiple apparatus that are activated by the customer. It provides a consolidated means to control the activation of each apparatus and interface with the customer. It provides a consolidated means to configuration operations on the facility and a consolidated means to record activities occurring at the facility. It provides for system reconfiguration and review of activity at the site or from a remote location and can automatically notify a remote site on the occurrence of a preset event.Type: GrantFiled: April 25, 1988Date of Patent: March 12, 1991Inventor: Jeffrey J. Ousborne
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Patent number: 4998547Abstract: A vehicle washer includes vehicle washing apparatus including multiple washing operations or mechanisms. The washer also includes a power source, message transmitter such as an electronic digital voice recorder, an input mechanism such as a coin box or keypad, and an activation circuit. The message transmitter is provided with an audio or other message to be played for a vehicle operator while adjacent the coinbox or keypad, from a speaker. The input mechanism accepts multiple manual inputs and responsively provides multiple input signals including multiple washing mechanism activation signals and a recorder activation signal. The activation mechanism is interconnected to the input means, the power source, the washing mechanisms and the recorder means for receiving the multiple washing mechanism activation signals, and responsively interconnecting the power source and the washing mechanisms, and responsively interconnecting the power source and the recorder.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 1989Date of Patent: March 12, 1991Assignee: Ryko Manufacturing CompanyInventor: Julian L. Klein
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Patent number: 4995136Abstract: There is provided automatic car wash equipment for positioning a forced air dryer including a blower towards vehicles being washed. The blower produces high velocity air and contains a nozzle for directing the high velocity air towards the vehicles. The blower and a positioning motor are mounted to a support frame, under which an on-coming vehicle passes. The blower is positioned according to the output signal from an ultrasonic imaging sensor mounted to the support frame. The relative position of the blower is measured by a linear potentiometer mounted to the piston which positions the blower. Additional detection devices are provided for over-riding the ultrasonic signal should contact be eminent between the blower and various parts of an on-coming vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: January 12, 1990Date of Patent: February 26, 1991Assignee: Sherman IndustriesInventor: Charles R. Smith
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Patent number: 4987631Abstract: A cleaning attachment to fit a forklift truck for cleaning substantially vertical surfaces. The attachment includes a mounting frame fitted with spaced apart hollow sleeves to receive the forks of the forklift truck and thereby connect the frame with the hydraulic hoist for vertical movement. An elongate scrubbing element is mounted with a support frame connected with the mounting frame by spaced apart parallel arms. The arms are pivotally mounted with the mounting frame and support frame respectively to provide reciprocating movement of the scrubbing element toward and away from the surface to be cleaned. In use the scrubbing element is traversed over the surface to be cleaned by vertical movement of the hoist and horizontal movement of the forklift.Type: GrantFiled: July 5, 1989Date of Patent: January 29, 1991Assignee: Daxrose Pty. Ltd.Inventor: Wallace C. S. Eaglesham
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Patent number: 4985957Abstract: The apparatus and method is utilized in a drive-through vehicle washing system of the type in which a vehicle is moved by conveyor along a longitudinal path across a floor surface, past a series of washing stations. The apparatus attaches to a parallelogram linkage such as that of a tire washing station and includes a manifold for spraying pressurized liquid at the vehicle wheels from an outlet nozzle. The manifold is carried by a drive mechanism which translates the manifold longitudinally to follow the vehicle wheel passing thereby for a distance sufficient for the stream of liquid to claims the entire wheel circumference. A flow control valve for regulating the flow of liquid is provided along with a sensor for detecting wheel position. A control mechanism regulates the movement of the manifold and the flow of pressurized liquid causing the manifold to move at a speed substantially equal to that of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: January 12, 1990Date of Patent: January 22, 1991Assignee: Belanger, Inc.Inventors: Michael J. Belanger, Graham J. Astley
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Patent number: 4981523Abstract: A fluid distribution apparatus is provided which includes a sensor for developing control signals representative of the profile of a vehicle to be cleaned and a tube for distributing fluid. The tube is movable horizontally in directions parallel to the path of a vehicle being cleaned and vertically toward and away from the path of the vehicle. Movements of the tube are controlled to position the tube in front of the vehicle and move the tube in the direction of movement of the vehicle and to position the tube above the vehicle and move the tube in a direction opposite that of the vehicle and simultaneously move the tube vertically to follow the profile of the vehicle. The tube is also positioned behind the vehicle and moved in the direction of the vehicle after the profiling. Oscillatory movement of the tube about a plurality of angular positions is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 1986Date of Patent: January 1, 1991Assignee: Sherman Industries, Inc.Inventors: Sherman L. Larson, Daniel DelPrato, Carl C. Beer, Anthony J. Tomasello, Ray Hoy
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Patent number: 4967442Abstract: The apparatus for washing or drying vehicles has a conveyor belt drawing the vehicle through the apparatus and a flexible support member (4), guided in a horizontal plane above the plane of movement of the vehicle over a plurality of return wheels (5, 6), with a multiplicity of narrow strips (10) of absorbent material connected with said support member and vertically suspended therefrom. Two strands (4, 4b) of the support member (4) extend at an angle (.alpha.) obliquely relative to the direction (B) of movement of the vehicle. The strand (4a) facing the front end of the vehicle is driven in a direction which has a velocity component (K1) oriented opposite to the direction (B) of the vehicle advance. That strand (4b) of the support member (4) which faces toward the tail (1b) of the vehicle is inclined at such an angle (.alpha.) relative to the direction (B) of vehicle advance that its motion has a velocity component (K2) which is oriented in the direction (B) of the vehicle advance. This angle (.alpha.Type: GrantFiled: April 26, 1989Date of Patent: November 6, 1990Inventor: Gebhard Weigele
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Patent number: 4967440Abstract: A rotary cloth roll assembly for treating the surfaces of the tires on one side of an automobile as it proceeds along a predetermined path of travel comprises a rotary shaft having a longitudinal axis parallel to the path of travel, a positive stop abutment secured to the shaft and a plurality of aligned replaceable cartridges mounted upon the shaft for rotation therewith and bearing against the abutment. Each cartridge includes a series of engaging spacers, with each spacer having at its center an opening generally conforming to the shaft for rotation therewith and for preventing rotation of the spacers relative to the shaft. Each spacer has first and second sides, the first side being generally flat and the second side having thereon a plurality of spaced disc support projections.Type: GrantFiled: August 19, 1988Date of Patent: November 6, 1990Assignee: Belanger, Inc.Inventor: James A. Belanger
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Patent number: 4962560Abstract: Cleansing apparatus for a vehicle washing system which includes a cylindrical brush and a motor for rotating the brush about a longitudinal axis. The brush is supported on a ball and socket joint which allows the orientation of the longitudinal axis to vary so that a "self balancing" system results which minimizes vibrations, permits higher brush rotational speeds, and which allows the brush to deflect when struck by a vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 1988Date of Patent: October 16, 1990Inventor: Eric F. Moore
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Patent number: 4951340Abstract: A side washer installation for an automatic car wash line in which each side washer is bottom mounted on a mounting arrangement comprised of a swing arm having upwardly extending drive shaft over which the washer is mounted. An internal web plate is secured within each washer cylinder which rests atop a flange attached to the drive shaft, the flange bolted to the web plate at assembly. The drive motor and associated hardware are located beneath each side washer to remove this componentry from the field of view of the occupants of vehicles passing down the wash line. A subgrade plumbing system for the hydraulic motors and also spray materials is routed through a network of subgrade plumbing chases extending beneath the concrete surfaces and having stubs adjacent each washer for enabling installation of the plumbing system.Type: GrantFiled: January 23, 1989Date of Patent: August 28, 1990Assignee: Gilbert J. Rietsch, Jr.Inventor: Gilbert J. Rietsch
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Patent number: 4949423Abstract: Drying apparatus for an automatic car wash having separate sensing means for detecting the proximity of a nozzle to opaque top portions of vehicles and transparent top portions of vehicles to maintain the nozzle within a preselected proximity range of the top portions of the vehicles. Another sensing means is provided to detect the tailgates of open-bed pick-up trucks to retract the nozzle before it hits a tailgate. Also, the means by which the nozzle is mounted and moved toward and away from the vehicles vary the orientation of the nozzle relative to vertical as the nozzles moves between its uppermost and lowermost positions. Similar mounting and moving means can be used with side drying apparatus. In a second and more preferred form, ultrasonic detectors detect both the opaque parts of a vehicle and the windshield.Type: GrantFiled: December 5, 1988Date of Patent: August 21, 1990Assignee: Sherman Industries, Inc.Inventors: Sherman L. Larson, Daniel J. Del Prato
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Patent number: 4946513Abstract: This invention is an automated system and method for washing automobiles. The invention provides a device which sprays liquid onto the vehicle, while closely following the general contour of the vehicle. The system determines that contour by analyzing and recording patterns of broken light beams when the vehicle passes by an array of photoelectric sensors. The system uses the stored information about the contour of the vehicle to control the movement of a spray bar which contains a set of nozzles. As the vehicle is pulled into the washing area by a conveyor, the spray bar initially moves with the vehicle, spraying the front grill while maintaining a constant distance from the vehicle. Then, the spray bar reverses direction, while the vehicle continues to move forward. The spray bar then travels around the vehicle contour, while adjusting the direction of the nozzles so that the liquid flows in the proper direction. After having traced the entire contour, the spray bar reverses direction again.Type: GrantFiled: August 12, 1987Date of Patent: August 7, 1990Assignee: Sherman Industries, Inc.Inventors: Daniel J. Del Prato, David R. McKenna, Sherman L. Larson
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Patent number: 4937908Abstract: A vehicle wash apparatus is disclosed as including a curtain of flexible scrubbing strips which are suspended from an orbiting support member adapted to selectively have the strips wrapped there around to elevate the strips from the path of movement of a vehicle through the apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: February 21, 1989Date of Patent: July 3, 1990Assignee: Mark VII Equipment, Inc.Inventor: Dennis R. McCadden
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Patent number: 4935982Abstract: A vehicle washing system includes either one or two substantially vertically oriented vehicle cleaning brushes for washing the front, sides and rear of the vehicle. A supporting frame extends over and across the vehicle travelling along a path. The frame is divided by the path centerline into a first frame section extending across a first path section lying on the first side of the path centerline and a second frame section extending across the second path section lying on the second side of the path centerline. First and second brush support arms are each coupled to a different frame section and pivotally support rotating vehicle cleaning brushes. The shaft of the first brush is positioned within the first path section when its brush support arm is deflected into an open position and is positioned within the second path section when its brush support arm is deflected into a closed position.Type: GrantFiled: January 12, 1988Date of Patent: June 26, 1990Assignee: N/S CorporationInventor: G. Thomas Ennis
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Patent number: 4934018Abstract: Control of a contactless cleaning element (18) in the cleaning line of a vehicle washing system, is accomplished by transmitting at least two energy beams (96, 98) transversely across the vehicle path. When the first beam (96) is interrupted by the passing vehicle, a motor device (64, 66) operates at a normal speed to move the cleaning element away from the vehicle. When the second beam (98) is interrupted, the motor device operates at a higher speed to move the cleaning element away at a faster rate. The cleaning element is pivotally connected by parallel arms (42, 72) to a gantry (12) so that actuation of the motor (64, 66) maintains substantially constant discharge angles relative to the vertical for two spaced apart discharge slots (102, 124) in the cleaning element. The motor (64) is mounted to the gantry 12 by a failsafe slidable carriage assembly (110).Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 1988Date of Patent: June 19, 1990Assignee: Fabrication Specialists, Inc.Inventors: Dana R. Fortier, Timothy H. Wentzell, Zbigniew M. Janikowski
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Patent number: 4916771Abstract: The apparatus for washing the wheels (2) of vehicles in a washing plant has two oppositely arranged rotating wash brushes (4) each of which is associated with the wheels of one side of the vehicle and adjustable in the vehicle's direction of movement (B) on a carriage movable together with the vehicle in the vehicle's direction of movement (B) by means of a drive motor, and which during the washing phase can be pressed against one wheel (2) at a time. A light barrier (12, 13) is provided between the oppositely arranged carriages (6) and connected thereto and its light beam (15) is spaced from the axes of rotation (A) of the wash brushes (4) at a radial distance (R1) which corresponds approximately to the radius (R) of an average wheel size.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 1989Date of Patent: April 17, 1990Inventor: Gebhard Weigele
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Patent number: 4893229Abstract: The computerized car wash controls a plurality of washing and waxing devices for cars. These devices are controlled by command signals and the cars are moved through the devices via a conveyor. The system includes a car tracking scheme that monitors the position of the cars as they move by the plurality of car washing and waxing devices. The system also includes an input device at which the car wash operator selects certain car washing and waxing options as ordered by the car owner. The system includes a device for generating command signals for each of the plurality of car washing and waxing devices. The command signal generator generates these signals based upon (1) the selections obtained by the car wash operator at the input device; (2) a pre-established baseline operational sequence for the plurality of car washing and waxing devices; and (3) the positions of the cars that are determined by the car tracker.Type: GrantFiled: September 9, 1988Date of Patent: January 9, 1990Assignee: Innovative Control Systems, Inc.Inventor: Kevin Detrick
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Patent number: 4885816Abstract: A washing apparatus, particularly for use on airplanes, comprising a carriage, a support, a mechanism connecting the carriage with the support for moving the support up and down on the carriage, a swing arm extending generally horizontally, a frame pivotably mounted on the swing arm and extending upwardly from the swing arm, a brush rotatably mounted on the upper end of the frame, and a mechanism connecting the swing arm to the support for swinging movement of the swing arm on the support. The apparatus may further include a cover at least partially surrounding the brush.Type: GrantFiled: August 4, 1988Date of Patent: December 12, 1989Assignees: Kawasaki Jukogyo Kabushiki, Japan Air Lines Co., Ltd.Inventors: Masayuki Hashimoto, Manabu Sakamoto, Taizo Tsutsui, Satoshi Satoh, Yukihiko Kouza, Keikichi Murakami, Tonokatsu Soga, Akira Takeishi, Teruhiko Takusagawa, Misao Hayashi
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Patent number: 4881581Abstract: A vehicle automatic fueling assembly having an automatic teller-type control command center which is energized by insertion of money or credit card by the vehicle driver from within the vehicle to select and pay for the amount of fuel desired. A computer control assembly is provided in operative command control engagement with the automatic teller-type command center so as to selectively actuate a robot controlled fueling assembly having an automatic cut-off fueling nozzle assembly into mating fueling engagement with an automatic cut-off fuel receiving valve assembly provided in associated with the modified gasoline tank of a vehicle. The vehicle automatic fuel assembly is also provided with wheel stop lock means and windshield cleaning and drying means which are also automatically controlled by the computer control assembly.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 1988Date of Patent: November 21, 1989Inventor: James A. Hollerback
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Patent number: 4880026Abstract: A transportable, integrated work site designed specifically to facilitate the convenient and complete detailing of motorized vehicles; comprising a rigid skeletal structure which is constructed of preformed, connectable modules and defines a specific work bay or site, three cabinets situated about the periphery of the bay used to store and display auto detailing equipment and products, a series of variable intensity lights and spotlights disposed at various locations about the site having the capability of completely eliminating shadows when illuminating a vehicle, a rotatable mat drying rack, self-contained electrical, plumbing and vacuum systems, and a variety of specialized auto detailing equipment such as fans and an air compressor attached to the skeletal structure or stored within the cabinets. The work site is readily disassembled and transported to more favorable locations. Disassembly is facilitated by the fact that the work site is not in any way anchored to the floor or ground upon which it rests.Type: GrantFiled: July 28, 1988Date of Patent: November 14, 1989Assignee: Parapluie, Ltd.Inventors: F. Budd Ferre, Rowell Sims, Wesley G. Bowen, Vibert L. Kesler
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Patent number: 4878262Abstract: A scrubber for an automotive vehicle. The scrubber includes a brush, pivot and centering assembly. The brush scrubs the vehicle. The pivot allows the brush to change angular orientation. The centering means urges the brush toward a single predetermined angular orientation. In this way, should a vehicle drive into the brush, the brush may pivot with the force applied to it, reducing the chance that the brush or the vehicle will be damaged. The centering mechanism, however, urges the brush toward a predetermined angular orientation so that, absent an external force applied to the brush, the brush will be in a predetermined position ready for scrubbing the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: February 29, 1988Date of Patent: November 7, 1989Assignee: Ryko Manufacturing CompanyInventors: Frank L. Stufflebeam, James A. Nelson
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Patent number: 4876760Abstract: A machine and method for automatically buffing and otherwise treating vehicle bodies. A gantry type frame includes two side columns each carrying an extensible and retractable buffing head that can be driven up and down. An overhead bridge extends between the columns and can be driven up and down on them. Top buffing heads are mounted to move in and out on the bridge and can be extended and retracted toward and away from the top of a vehicle positioned between the columns. The buffing heads are controlled by an electrical and hydraulic system arranged to effect automatic buffing of the vehicle sides and top. The frame is moved along the length of the vehicle in increments selected to effect thorough buffing of the vehicle surfaces.Type: GrantFiled: June 1, 1988Date of Patent: October 31, 1989Assignee: William B. RabournInventors: William B. Rabourn, Daniel R. Heckart
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Patent number: 4867798Abstract: A method of wet-cleaning and drying and/or visual inspection, servicing and repair of automobiles in which cleaning liquids are applied to the vehicle by manually operated means and wherein the vehicle is moved by foreign power past an operator's stand in such a manner that all lateral surfaces of the vehicle successively come to face said stand. Similar operations are carried out at the same time to the underfloor and/or the roof of the vehicle. An installation for carrying out the method in a roofed treatment room which comprises means for supplying cleaning liquids required for the treatment of the automobiles and is characterized by a platform rotatably disposed in the floor of the treatment room. Multi-appliances sets serve to supply several cleaning liquids of different nature independently of each other. One set is disposed on an operator's stand in the stationary floor region of the treatment room, below the rotatable platform, and on the roof framework of the treatment room.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 1987Date of Patent: September 19, 1989Inventor: Guenther Weikmann
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Patent number: 4857113Abstract: The system for cleansing exterior surfaces of vehicles has horizontal arrays of plural zero degree solid stream nozzles in spaced relationship along the linear length of the arrays. The zero degree nozzles are at an angular orientation with respect to the linear length of each array such that the solid streams emitted from them are from 40.degree. up to about 80.degree. from the linear length. Each array is equipped with elements for oscillating the array in a direction transverse to the linear length thereof. The system includes elements for effecting relative linear motion lengthwise between a vehicle undergoing treatment and the horizontal oscillatable arrays, with each array laterally parallel to a side of the vehicle. Ends of a vehicle as well as sides can be cleaned with the angularly impacting solid streams from the arrays during the relative linear motion even though the arrays are laterally parallel to the length of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 1988Date of Patent: August 15, 1989Assignee: Grace-Lee Products, Inc.Inventor: Robert J. Hodge
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Patent number: 4852199Abstract: A vehicle washing apparatus includes a pair of elevated, parallel tracks along which a carriage is moved. The carriage supports hanging strips formed of a series of sponge like elements joined end to end. The strips are formed into a transverse array and an array on each side of the carriage so as to cover the entire outer surface of a vehicle disposed in the volume between the tracks as the carriage is moved along the tracks. The transverse array is preceded by a water spray from nozzles mounted on the carriage, and additional nozzles are mounted from the carriage on the outside of the side arrays to direct a water spray against the side strips to hold such strips against the vehicle. Stationary water spray nozzles are also provided along the length of the track to provide a rinse spray for the vehicle. The strips and the spray nozzles may all be reciprocated during operation.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 1988Date of Patent: August 1, 1989Inventor: Edward Holbus
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Patent number: 4850379Abstract: A device for washing automobiles, vans, and other vehicles is shown which comprises a movable spray bar with high velocity spray nozzles mounted thereon, as well as associated supporting structure, and motion inducing means. In the washing process, the lateral profile of the vehicle is tracked by an array of photoelectric cell detectors mounted on the spray bar. Based on electronic output signals from the detectors, which are processed by a preprogrammed logic control unit and relayed to the motion inducing means, the spray bar is maintained at a predetermined height above, and the nozzles at a constant angle to, the vehicle surfaces being washed.Type: GrantFiled: September 22, 1988Date of Patent: July 25, 1989Inventor: Thomas J. Petit
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Patent number: 4841894Abstract: A trolley to convey brushes for cleaning a stationary hull is drawn along the bottom and sides of the hull. Brushes are supported by variable buoyancy chambers to make the biasing of the brushes against the hull also in turn variable. The trolley can be supported and stored in a dock or alternatively supported by a floating platform. There is an electrical motor drive for a chain which pulls the trolley. A diesel prime mover may be used in the floating platform to generate power for the electric motor chain drive and for the submersible motors.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 1988Date of Patent: June 27, 1989Inventor: Peter Nellessen, Jr.
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Patent number: 4815158Abstract: A pair of diametrically offset flaps of feltlike fabric are mounted at opposite ends of a filament-strand carwasher brush to clear the brush strands away from mirrors and antennae as the vehicle is washed.Type: GrantFiled: April 4, 1988Date of Patent: March 28, 1989Assignee: Bivens Winchester CorporationInventor: Lonnie M. Crotts
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Patent number: 4809720Abstract: A brushless vehicle washing apparatus and process which cleans all four sides and top of any sized vehicle uniformly and in an efficient manner, without touching such vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: December 7, 1987Date of Patent: March 7, 1989Inventor: Patrick T. Heraty
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Patent number: 4809392Abstract: Dryer equipment for an automatic car wash includes at least one proximity sensing system for maintaining a forced-air stripping nozzle within a predetermined range of the surface of the vehicle. Each sensing system includes a pair of associated triple-beam photoelectric switches, each of said triple beams being adjusted to focus at a different focal point at a different distance from the nozzle. Electronic circuitry responds to signals developed by the sensing system to control an air/oil power system which operates hydraulic cylinders to maintain the nozzle within a relatively narrow range from the vehicle surface. The range is determined by the difference between the focal points of the triple beams of the two associated photoelectric switches. Preferably, .at least two proximity sensing systems are provided--one for the top of the vehicle and the other for the passenger side of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: June 8, 1987Date of Patent: March 7, 1989Assignee: Sherman Industries, Inc.Inventors: Sherman L. Larson, Daniel J. Del Prato, Robert Klaus
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Patent number: 4777687Abstract: A tack-off assembly (10) includes a support structure (12) defining a path (14) extending therethrough. A rotatable axle (16) is mounted from the support structure (12) defining an axis A. A feather duster assembly (18) is mounted on the axle (16) for removing dust particles by contacting the surface of an object (20) traveling along the path (14). The feathers (98) of the feather duster assembly (18) are mounted on a plurality of hubs (24) which are expandable for selectively expanding and contracting the length of the feather assembly (18) along the axis A.Type: GrantFiled: April 24, 1987Date of Patent: October 18, 1988Assignee: Behr Industrial Equipment, Inc.Inventors: Roger S. Cann, Frank A. Bloomer
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Patent number: RE33849Abstract: The computerized car wash controls a plurality of washing and waxing devices for cars. These devices are controlled by command signals and the cars are moved through the devices via a conveyor. The system includes a car tracking scheme that monitors the position of the cars as they move by the plurality of car washing and waxing devices. The system also includes an input device at which the car wash operator selects certain car washing and waxing options as ordered by the car owner. The system includes a device for generating command signals for each of the plurality of car washing and waxing devices. The command signal generator generates these signals based upon (1) the selections obtained by the car wash operator at the input device; (2) a pre-established baseline operational sequence for the plurality of car washing and waxing devices; and (3) the positions of the cars that are determined by the car tracker.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 1990Date of Patent: March 17, 1992Assignee: Innovative Control Systems, Inc.Inventor: Kevin Detrick