GB2535465A

GB2535465A - Cone washing apparatus

Info

Publication number: GB2535465A
Application number: GB1502532.3A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Mathers Gordon
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2015-02-16
Filing date: 2015-02-16
Publication date: 2016-08-24
Also published as: GB201502532D0

Abstract

A washing apparatus for cleaning a traffic cone, bollard or refuse bin 9 comprises a cleaning assembly 3 that includes a frame (32, fig 3) having an inner periphery defining a mouth (34, fig 3) for receiving the object 9, at least one nozzle (48, fig 3) directed towards the mouth (34, fig 3), and at least one conduit (46, fig 3) connected to said at least one nozzle (48, fig 3) for delivering liquid to said at least one nozzle (48, fig 3) and a support assembly 2 coupled to said cleaning assembly 3 and comprising means for actuating said cleaning assembly 3 along a notional axis that extends through said mouth (34, fig 3). The cleaning assembly is preferably moved in a vertical direction up and down over the object 9 to be cleaned. The washing apparatus can be pivotally connected to and controlled from a vehicle such as a street cleaner 5.

Description

Cone Washing Apparatus

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to washing apparatus and in particular to a traffic cone washing apparatus.

Background to the Invention

When a section of road is closed for maintenance/repairs, or during the construction of a new road, traffic management companies distribute reflective traffic cones. These traffic cones are typically used to lay out an alternative route for drivers to take due to the construction works and to alert oncoming traffic to divert them around any potential hazards. During the course of the works, the traffic cones are subject to all elements of the weather, pollution and dirt/dust from the works all of which tends to reduce the visibility of the cones. It will particularly reduce the effectiveness of the reflective strip surrounding the cone which may then pose a safety risk especially at night. The typical solution to this is for the cones to be washed by hand. However, this is very labour intensive.. Another solution which is commonly employed is the use of pressure washers to remove the dirt and debris from the cones. However the focused pressure from these can often damage or remove the reflective sleeve of the cone significantly impairing the cone's visibility and again the process is very time consuming. A further solution which is also used is that of high pressure brushes which encase the cone and clean it therein, but this type of device damages the reflective sleeve and impairs the visibility of the cone.

It would be desirable to obviate or mitigate the problems typically associated with cleaning traffic cones by providing a cone washing apparatus which does not damage the reflective sleeve, is relatively fast and is not labour intensive on the user.

Summary of the Invention

Accordingly, the invention provides a washing apparatus for cleaning an object, the apparatus comprising: a cleaning assembly, the cleaning assembly comprising a frame having an inner periphery defining a mouth for receiving the object, at least one nozzle directed towards the mouth, and at least one conduit connected to said at least one nozzle for delivering liquid to said at least one nozzle; and a support assembly coupled to said cleaning assembly and comprising means for actuating said cleaning assembly along a notional axis that extends through said mouth.

Preferably, said frame, said inner periphery and said mouth are annular.

Ideally, said notional axis is substantially perpendicular to a plane in which said frame lies.

In a preferred embodiment, a plurality of said nozzles are provided, spaced apart around the frame, preferably around said inner periphery, more preferably around the whole of said inner periphery.

Ideally, the nozzles are substantially evenly spaced around said frame, preferably around said inner periphery, more preferably around the whole of said inner periphery.

Preferably, said nozzles are provided in pairs, the respective nozzles of each pair being substantially oppositely disposed around the mouth.

Ideally, at least one nozzle is positioned to direct liquid, in use, into and/or across said mouth.

Preferably, said at least one nozzle is positioned to direct liquid, in use, in a direction substantially perpendicular to said notional axis.

Ideally, said support assembly includes means for actuating said cleaning assembly in a second direction substantially perpendicular to said notional axis, and preferably also means for actuating said cleaning assembly in a third direction that is substantially perpendicular to said notional axis and said second direction.

Preferably, the washing apparatus including means for coupling said support assembly to a vehicle.

Ideally, said coupling means allows pivotable movement of said support assembly, preferably about an axis that is substantially parallel with said notional axis.

Preferably, said coupling means comprises a rotational bearing such as a slew ring.

Ideally, the apparatus further including a liquid delivery system, the liquid delivery system includes said at least one nozzle and said at least one conduit, and further includes a source of pressurised liquid and means for selectably causing said liquid to be provided to said at least one nozzle under pressure.

Preferably, said cleaning assembly and support assembly are supplied power by the vehicle via one or more power connections.

Ideally, said power connections may comprise hydraulic, pneumatic and/or electrical connections such as hydraulic or electric circuits.

Preferably, a controller is incorporated into one or more hydraulic and/or electric circuits to enable control thereof.

Ideally, said cleaning assembly and support assembly are controlled from the vehicle via the controller.

Ideally, said controller is operable to control the movement of the cleaning assembly by the support assembly.

Preferably, said controller is connected to the liquid delivery system and is operable to control delivery of liquid to said nozzles.

Ideally, said controller is operable to deliver liquid to the nozzles of the liquid delivery system when said cleaning assembly is moving in a vertical direction.

Preferably, said controller may comprise one or more operable controls such as a joystick and/or one or more buttons/switches.

Preferably, said liquid delivery system is operable to receive liquid pumped from a tank or other vessel stored in the vehicle via one or more valves.

Ideally, said support assembly may comprise one or more actuating sections.

Preferably, said actuating sections may comprise telescopic struts coupled to at least one hydraulic actuator.

Ideally, said hydraulic actuator may comprise a hydraulic ram.

In a preferred embodiment, said frame comprises first and second sides and first and second ends with said first and second sides being substantially parallel to each other and said first and second ends being substantially parallel to each other such that the frame has a substantially square shape.

Preferably, said liquid comprises a combination of water and detergent.

In a preferred embodiment a vehicle having a washing apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim coupled thereto.

Ideally, said notional axis is substantially vertical in-use, or substantially perpendicular with the ground surface supporting the vehicle.

Preferably, said vehicle comprises a street cleaner. In alternative embodiments, said vehicle may comprise a car, van or lorry.

Further advantageous aspects of the invention will be apparent to those ordinarily skilled in the art upon review of the following description of a specific embodiment and with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

An embodiment of the invention is now described by way of example with reference to the following drawings in which: Figure 1 is a side view of a cone washing apparatus embodying the invention; Figure 2 is a front view of the cone washing apparatus of figure 1; Figure 3 is a plan view of a cleaning assembly, being part of the cone washing apparatus of figures 1 and 2; Figure 4 is a side view of the cone washing apparatus of figures 1 and 2 coupled to a vehicle.

Detailed Description of the drawings

Figures 1 and 2 show a first embodiment of a cone washing apparatus, which is generally indicated by the reference numeral 1. The apparatus 1 comprises a support assembly 2 coupled to a cleaning assembly 3. The apparatus 1 includes a coupling 4 by which it is coupled, optionally removably coupled, to a vehicle 5 in use (see Figure 4). The apparatus 1 is typically pivotably coupled to the vehicle. The vehicle typically comprises a street sweeper. In alternative embodiments the vehicle may comprise a car, van or lorry.

In the preferred embodiment, the support assembly 2 is coupled to the vehicle 5 by coupling 4 (illustrated in Figure 4). The coupling 4 may for example comprise a swivel bearing 4, or other pivotable coupling device. In the illustrated embodiment the coupling 4 comprises a slew ring. Advantageously, the swivel bearing 4 allows for rotational movement of the support assembly 2 relative to the vehicle 5 about a first axis, which is typically substantially vertical in-use, or substantially perpendicular with the ground surface supporting the vehicle 5. The coupling 4 is typically located at the front and/or rear of the vehicle 5. The coupling 4 may be mounted to the underside of the vehicle 5. In the preferred embodiment the coupling 4 is located at the front of the vehicle 5, is mounted to the underside of the drivers cab (as illustrated in Figure 4), this positioning of the coupling 4 allows for pivoting movement of the apparatus 1 about the front and first, second sides of the vehicle 5 in-use. In an alternative embodiment the coupling 4 may be located at the rear underside of the vehicle 5 enabling rotational movement of the apparatus 1 about the rear and first, second sides of the vehicle 5 in-use. The coupling 4 is preferably power-operated, e.g. hydraulically operated.

In use, the support assembly 2 typically extends in a substantially lateral direction from the body of the vehicle 5 to hold the cleaning assembly 3 above the ground surface. The support assembly 2 typically comprises more than one section, at least one of which is an actuating section capable of moving, conveniently substantially linearly, the cleaning assembly 3 with respect to the vehicle 5. The assembly 2 preferably comprises at least one actuating section that is capable of moving the support assembly 2 in a direction towards and away from the vehicle 5, for example along a second axis that is substantially perpendicular to said first axis, i.e. substantially horizontal in-use, or substantially parallel with the ground surface supporting the vehicle. The assembly 2 preferably comprises at least one actuating section that is capable of moving the support assembly 2 in a direction along an axis that is substantially parallel with said first axis, i.e. substantially vertical in-use, or substantially perpendicular to the ground surface supporting the vehicle 5. Each section typically comprises an elongate member. The elongate member may comprise a rod or strut or bar.

In the illustrated embodiment the support assembly 2 comprises first, second and third actuating sections 6, 7 and 8. The first section 6 typically comprises a telescopic strut 10. The telescopic strut 10 comprises a sleeve portion 12 with a corresponding telescopically extendible rod 14 with the rod having dimensions corresponding to the interior of the sleeve portion 12. The first section 6 is typically coupled to an actuator 16, for example a hydraulic actuator such as a ram. In the illustrated embodiment, the extendible rod of the actuator 16 is coupled to the rod 14 of the telescopic strut 10, and its sleeve portion is coupled to the sleeve 12 of the strut 10. The actuator 16 is operable to vary the length of the telescopic strut 10. In use, the first section 6 is coupled to the vehicle 5 by the coupling 4 and projects laterally from the vehicle 5. The preferred arrangement is such that the first section is extendible in a direction towards and away from the vehicle 5.

The first section 6 is coupled to a second section 7, for example by bracket 17. Typically, the second section 7 is connected to the free, extendible end of the first section. As such, extension and retraction of the first section 6 causes the second section to move away from and toward the vehicle in use.

The second section 7 is extendible in a direction that is substantially perpendicular to the direction in which the first section is extendible, preferably in a direction along an axis that is substantially parallel with said first axis, i.e. substantially vertical in-use, or substantially perpendicular to the ground surface supporting the vehicle. In the illustrated embodiment the second section 7 comprises a telescopic strut 18. The telescopic strut 18 comprises a sleeve portion 20 with a corresponding telescopically extendible rod 22 with the rod having dimensions corresponding to the interior of the sleeve portion 20. The second section 7 is typically coupled to an actuator 24, for example a hydraulic actuator such as a ram. In the illustrated embodiment the actuator 24 is coupled to the rod 22 of the telescopic strut 18, and its sleeve portion is coupled to the sleeve 20 of the strut 18, for example by the bracket 17. The actuator 24 is operable to vary the length of the telescopic strut 18.

The second section 7 is typically coupled to a third section 8, for example via a bracket 28. Typically, the second section 7 is connected to the free, extendible end of the first section. As such, extension and retraction of the second section 7 causes the third section 8 to move upwards and downwards in use In the illustrated embodiment the third section 8 typically comprises an actuator 30, for example a hydraulic actuator such as a ram. The actuator 30 is coupled to the cleaning assembly 3. The preferred arrangement is such that the actuator 30 is extendible in a direction along an axis that is substantially parallel with said first axis, i.e. substantially vertical in-use, or substantially perpendicular to the ground surface supporting the vehicle. Hence, the actuator 30 is operable to raise and lower the cleaning assembly 3. Optionally a support rod 31 is coupled to both the cleaning assembly 3 and the bracket 28. The support rod 31 ensures the stability of the cleaning assembly 3 when the hydraulic actuator 30 moves the cleaning assembly.

The cleaning assembly 3 typically comprises a frame 32 (see figure 3). The frame 32 is shaped to define an interior aperture 34. The interior aperture 34 typically has greater dimensions than a traffic cone 9, or whatever other items it is desired to clean. In the illustrated embodiment the frame 32 comprises first and second sides 36, 38 and first and second ends 40, 42. The first and second sides 36, 38 are substantially parallel to each other and the first and second ends 40, 42 are substantially parallel to each other such that the frame 32 has a substantially square shape. In alternative embodiments the frame 32 may have any other suitable shape e.g. circular, rectangular, elliptical or triangular shape.

At least one inwardly facing nozzle 48 is provided on the frame 32. Typically a plurality of nozzles 48 are provided, spaced apart around the inner periphery of the frame, each facing the inner aperture 34. Each nozzle 48 is connected to a source of pressured liquid (typically a combination of water and detergent) by one or more pipes, hoses or other liquid conduits. The liquid source is typically provided by a tank (not shown) or other vessel located on the vehicle 5 with a pump for pumping liquid from the tank to the nozzles 48 typically via one or more valves. The nozzle(s) 48, conduit(s) and liquid source together provide a liquid delivery system for the apparatus 1.

In the illustrated embodiment, the frame 32 has a shelf 44 extending the length of the perimeter of its interior, and the nozzles 48 are mounted on the shelf. The frame 32 preferably has a plurality of nozzles 48 substantially equally spaced apart around the frame 32, for example a nozzle 48 located at each of the corners of the frame 32. Advantageously, this arrangement of the nozzles allows for an even spread of the liquid which is dispensed from the nozzles 48 providing an extensive clean of the traffic cone 9 whilst also ensuring the stability of the cone 9 during the cleaning process. In an alternative embodiment the frame 32 may be hollow with the conduits and the nozzles 48 being incorporated into the frame, with apertures being positioned on the interior faces of the frame corresponding to the position of the nozzles 48.

In the illustrated embodiment, the nozzles 48 are interconnected by a plurality of pipes 46. At least one pipe 46 has an inlet 50 for receiving liquid which is then transferred through the pipes 46 to the nozzles 48 in-use. A further pipe, hose or other conduit is connected between the inlet 50 and the source of pressurised liquid. For example at least one pipe (not shown) is coupled to the inlet 50 of the cleaning assembly 3. The at least one pipe may be mounted along the support assembly 2. Alternatively, the pipe may be mounted inside the support assembly 2. The at least one pipe is coupled to the vehicle 5. In use, pressurised liquid is pumped from the vehicle 5 through the pipe and into the inlet 50.

In preferred embodiments, the apparatus 1 is powered by the vehicle 5 and, to this end, one or more power connections (not illustrated) are provided between the vehicle 5 and the apparatus 1 during use. The power connections may for example be hydraulic, pneumatic and/or electrical as required. In the illustrated embodiment, hydraulic connections are provided for operating the coupling 4 and the actuators 16, 18, 30. Advantageously, this allows the apparatus 1 to be controlled from the interior of the vehicle 5.

In preferred embodiments the cone washing apparatus 1 is controlled from the vehicle 5, conveniently from within the driver's cab. A controller (not shown) is typically installed in the vehicle 5 and is coupled (electrically and hydraulically in this example) to the apparatus 1 for the operation thereof. For example the controller may be incorporated into one or more hydraulic and/or electrical circuits (not shown), as applicable, to control the operation of the apparatus 1, in particular the movement of the cleaning assembly 3 by the support assembly 2. Preferably, the controller is also connected (e.g. electrically and/or hydraulically as applicable) to the liquid delivery system to control delivery of liquid to the nozzles 48, e.g. by operating one or more valves, e.g. one or more solenoid valves (not shown) and/or pump(s) that are part of the liquid delivery system. It is preferred that liquid is dispensed by the apparatus 1 only when the frame 32 is being moved in the vertical direction, in particular by actuator 30. Therefore the controller may be configured to cause liquid to be dispensed when, optionally only when, the user operates the controller to move the frame in this manner. The controller may have one or more use operable controls, e.g. a joystick and/or one or more buttons/switches. Advantageously, the apparatus 1 only dispenses fluid when the cleaning assembly is moving in a pattern corresponding to the typical movement pattern for cleaning a cone 9, and as a result water usage is kept to a minimum.

The cone washing apparatus 1 when coupled to the vehicle 5 (as illustrated in Figure 4) enables the washing of a cone 9 adjacent to the vehicle 5. Typical operation of the apparatus 1 is now described. A user (not shown) uses the controller to position the cleaning assembly 3 over and/or around a cone 9 to be washed. This may be achieved by causing the first actuating section 6 to rotate about the coupling 4 and/or to extend or retract, and/or to raise or lower the cleaning assembly by extending or retracting the second section 7. Once the cleaning assembly 3 is appropriately positioned, the user operates the controller to raise and/or lower the cleaning assembly 3 such that the cone 9 passes through the frame 32. This movement can be effected by the actuator 30. During this movement, liquid is dispensed from the nozzles 48 to clean the cone. Once cleaning is finished, the frame may be lifted away from the cone 9.

In an alternative embodiment, the cone washing apparatus 1 may have one or more cameras mounted thereupon with said cameras relaying a feed to a visual display unit located inside said vehicle. Advantageously, the camera feed may enable accurate positioning of the cone washing apparatus 1 in-use.

It will be understood that embodiments of the invention may be used for and/or adapted for use in cleaning items other than cones, e.g. bollards or bins.

The invention is not limited to the embodiment(s) described herein but can be amended or modified without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Claims

Claims 1. A washing apparatus for cleaning an object, the apparatus comprising: a cleaning assembly, the cleaning assembly comprising a frame having an inner periphery defining a mouth for receiving the object, at least one nozzle directed towards the mouth, and at least one conduit connected to said at least one nozzle for delivering liquid to said at least one nozzle; and a support assembly coupled to said cleaning assembly and comprising means for actuating said cleaning assembly along a notional axis that extends through said mouth.
2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said frame, said inner periphery and said mouth are annular.
3. The apparatus of claim 1 or 2, wherein said notional axis is substantially perpendicular to a plane in which said frame lies
4. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein a plurality of said nozzles are provided, spaced apart around the frame, preferably around said inner periphery, more preferably around the whole of said inner periphery.
5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein said nozzles are substantially evenly spaced around said frame, preferably around said inner periphery, more preferably around the whole of said inner periphery.
6. The apparatus of claim 4 or 5, wherein said nozzles are provided in pairs, the respective nozzles of each pair being substantially oppositely disposed around the mouth.
7. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein said at least one nozzle is positioned to direct liquid, in use, into and/or across said mouth.
8. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein said at least one nozzle is positioned to direct liquid, in use, in a direction substantially perpendicular to said notional axis.
9. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein said support assembly includes means for actuating said cleaning assembly in a second direction substantially perpendicular to said notional axis, and preferably also means for actuating said cleaning assembly in a third direction that is substantially perpendicular to said notional axis and said second direction.
10. The apparatus of any preceding claim, including means for coupling said support assembly to a vehicle.
11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein said coupling means allows pivotable movement of said support assembly, preferably about an axis that is substantially parallel with said notional axis.
12. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein said coupling means comprises a rotational bearing such as a slew ring.
13. The apparatus of any preceding claim, further including a liquid delivery system, the liquid delivery system including said at least one nozzle and said at least one conduit, and further including a source of pressurised liquid and means for selectably causing said liquid to be provided to said at least one nozzle under pressure.
14. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said cleaning assembly and support assembly are supplied power by the vehicle via one or more power connections.
15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein said power connections comprise hydraulic, pneumatic and/or electrical connections such as hydraulic or electric circuits.
16. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein a controller is incorporated into one or more hydraulic and/or electric circuits to enable control thereof
17. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein said cleaning assembly and support assembly are controllable from the vehicle via the controller.
18. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein said controller is operable to control the movement of the cleaning assembly by the support assembly.
19. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein said controller is connectable to the liquid delivery system of claim 13, is operable to control delivery of liquid to said nozzles.
20. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein said controller is operable to deliver liquid to the nozzles of the liquid delivery system when said cleaning assembly is moving in a vertical direction.
21. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein said controller comprises one or more operable controls such as a joystick and/or one or more buttons/switches.
22. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein said liquid delivery system is operable to receive liquid pumped from a tank or other vessel stored in the vehicle via one or more valves.
23. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said support assembly comprises one or more actuating sections.
24. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein, said actuating sections comprise telescopic struts coupled to at least one hydraulic actuator.
25. The apparatus of claim 24, wherein said hydraulic actuator comprises a hydraulic ram
26. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein said frame comprises first and second sides and first and second ends with said first and second sides being substantially parallel to each other and said first and second ends being substantially parallel to each other such that the frame has a substantially square shape.
27. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein said liquid comprises a combination of water and detergent.
28. A vehicle having a washing apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim coupled thereto.
29. The vehicle of claim 28, wherein said notional axis is substantially vertical in-use, or substantially perpendicular with the ground surface supporting the vehicle.
30. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein said vehicle comprises a street cleaner.