GB2605191A

GB2605191A - Automatic pressure washer system

Info

Publication number: GB2605191A
Application number: GB2104317.9A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Robert Yarrow Andrew; John Kaye Michael; Scott Dickson John
Original assignee: Design Prototype Manufacture and Supply Ltd
Current assignee: Design Prototype Manufacture and Supply Ltd
Priority date: 2021-03-26
Filing date: 2021-03-26
Publication date: 2022-09-28
Also published as: GB202104317D0

Abstract

An automated pressure washer system 100, 1000 and a method of operation for the system, for cleaning radiators of an engine of a rail vehicle. The system 100 comprises a nozzle mount 200 comprising a fluid nozzle 300 carried on a support guide assembly 102 which defines an operational plane defined by an x-axis and a y-axis, the x-axis and y-axis beingperpendicular to one another. The nozzle mount 200 is moveable relative to the support guide assembly 102. The support guide assembly 102 is configured to constrain the movement of the nozzle mount 200 to positions on the operational plane. A control system 400 is operable to define the positions of the nozzle mount 200 on the operational plane. The system may have a first 114 and second 115 x-axis support guide a y-axis support guide 116 and a z-axis support guide (118. Fig. 28); and x-axis, y-axis & z-axis actuators 130, 132, (134, Fig. 28) respectively; all mounted to a support frame 120. The support frame 120 may have an aperture 122 in which fluid from nozzle 300 is direct through. The nozzle may be a flat spray nozzle configured to generate a flat spray.

Description

AUTOMATED PRESSURE WASHER SYSTEM

The present disclosure relates to an automated pressure washer system In particular the disclosure is concerned with an automated pressure washer system for cleaning radiators of rail vehicle engines.

Background

Trains comprise rolling stock which may include unpowered rail vehicles and/or powered rail vehicles. Each may be a carriage or other transport unit. Some of the powered units have their own engines powered by a fuel, for example diesel. These may have radiators for cooling the engine. Typically radiators are fitted to the side of the vehicle, and often just above wheel level, so they are clear of the ground, and sit in the airstream generated as the vehicle moves along its rail.

It is important that the radiator operates efficiently and effectively. If the radiator does not extract enough heat from the engine, the engine may either overheat (resulting in additional wear or poor performance) or must be run more slowly, preventing the vehicle from moving at the desired speed. This impacts on the reliability of the vehicle, and may cause very expensive delays for the rail operator.

The radiators tend to be of a conventional design -for example having coolant pathways in thermal communication with fins. The fins are spaced apart to define air flow paths therebetween. In use, the fins are heated by the hot coolant liquid, and the fins act as heat exchangers to conduct heat to air passing over the fins, thereby cooling the fins and, in turn, the coolant and engine.

In the course of normal use the radiator can become clogged with dirt, filling the air flow gaps and covering the fins, which can reduce their ability to transmit heat away from the coolant fluid. -2 -

To maintain their performance radiators are often cleaned manually with a pressure washer. A user will direct a jet nozzle on the end of a hand held lance towards the radiator, and spray a jet of water onto its structure, passing the nozzle over the whole surface until the user believes the radiator is clean. This can take several minutes, during which time most of the water and dirt removed lands on the floor/ground. The process can cause a significant amount of spray, spreading dirt to other parts of the vehicle, including to the windows (which then must be cleaned) and electrical power lines (which poses a safety hazard).

Ideally the user should keep the lance at a constant distance from the radiator at all times, although this is nearly impossible to achieve manually. If too close the water will damage the radiator structure. If too far away the water jet will not clean effectively, and the user will need to spend more time going over the parts not cleaned properly.

Since particulates are being dislodged and directed in many directions, further health hazards are created for the user, such as risk of inhaling carcinogenic particles, or damage to eyes from foreign objects. Additionally the user may get wet, resulting in downtime as the user must change their work gear, especially on cold days.

Hence a system which enables effective cleaning of train vehicle radiators, while reducing likelihood of damage to the radiator and reducing risk to the vehicle and system user, is highly desirable.

Summary

According to the present disclosure there is provided an apparatus and method as set forth in the appended claims. Other features of the invention will be apparent from the dependent claims, and the description which follows.

Accordingly there may be provided an automated pressure washer system (100, 1000) for cleaning radiators (10) of an engine of a rail vehicle (14). The system (100) may comprise: a nozzle mount (200) comprising a fluid nozzle (300) carried on a support guide assembly (102) which defines an x-axis and a y-axis, the x-axis and y-axis being -3 -perpendicular to one another; the fluid mount (200), and hence fluid nozzle (300), being moveable relative to the support guide assembly (102); the support guide assembly (102) configured to guide the nozzle mount (200) to x, y positions defined by the support guide assembly (102); and a control system (400) operable to control movement of the nozzle mount (200) within the range of x, y positions defined by the support guide assembly (102).

The support guide assembly (102) may comprise: a first x-axis support guide (114); a y-axis support guide (116); the y-axis support guide (116) carried on the x-axis support guide (114); the first x-axis support guide (114) configured to guide the y-axis support guide (116) along the x-axis; the y-axis support guide (116) configured to guide the nozzle mount (200) along the y-axis; to thereby control x, y movement of the nozzle mount (200) to the x, y positions defined by the support guide assembly (102).

The nozzle mount (200) may comprise: a z-axis support guide (118) aligned with a z-axis and configured to guide the nozzle mount (200) along the z-axis to thereby control z movement of the nozzle mount (200); the z-axis being perpendicular to the x-axis and y-axis.

The x-axis support guide (114) may comprise an x-axis actuator (130) which is engaged with the y-axis support guide (116); the x-axis actuator (130) being operable to be controlled by the control system (400) to translate the y-axis support guide (116) along the first x-axis support guide (114).

The y-axis support guide (116) may comprise a y-axis actuator (132) which is engaged with the nozzle mount (200); the y-axis actuator (132) being operable to be controlled by the control system (400) to translate the nozzle mount (200) along the y-axis support guide (114).

The nozzle mount (200) may comprise a z-axis actuator (134); the z-axis actuator (134) being operable to be controlled by the control system (400) to translate the nozzle mount (200) along the z-axis. -4 -

The support guide assembly (102) may further comprise a support frame (120), and the first x-axis support guide (114) is mounted to a first side (119) of the support frame (120).

The support frame (120) may define an aperture (122); the first x-axis support guide (114) being mounted to a first side (121) of the aperture (122); the y-axis support guide (116) spanning the aperture (122); and the fluid nozzle (300) is aligned on the nozzle mount (200) to direct fluid through the aperture (122).

The automated pressure washer system (100, 1000) may further comprise a second x-axis support guide (115) mounted to the support frame (120) on a second side (123) of the aperture (122), opposite to the first side (121) across the aperture (122); the y-axis support guide (116) carried on the second x-axis support guide (115).

The automated pressure washer system (100, 1000) may further comprise a fluid supply tank (506), a pump (508) a heating unit (514) and a first control valve (560); wherein the fluid nozzle (300) is a first fluid nozzle (300), and is in fluid communication with the fluid supply tank (506) via the pump (508), heating unit (514) and first control valve (560) through a fluid conduit (518); the first control valve (560) being provided between the first fluid nozzle (300) and heating unit (514); the first control valve (560) having a first flow area (FA1); the pump (508) being operable to be controlled by the control system (400) to deliver fluid from the fluid supply tank (506) to the first fluid nozzle (300) through the fluid conduit (518); and the first control valve (560) being operable to be controlled by the control system (400) to be open or closed.

The automated pressure washer system (100, 1000) may further comprise a detergent supply tank (510), the detergent supply tank (510) being in fluid communication with the fluid conduit (518).

A second fluid nozzle (310) may be carried by the nozzle mount (200) and is in fluid communication with the fluid supply tank (506) via the pump (508) and heating unit (514) through the fluid conduit (518); the second control valve (562) being provided between -5 -the second fluid nozzle (310) and heating unit (514); the second control valve (562) having a second flow area (FA2) which is greater than the first flow area (FA1) of the first control valve (560); the second control valve (562) being operable to be controlled by the control system (400) to be open when the first control valve (560) is closed, or closed when the first control valve (560) is open.

A fluid collection tray (140) may be carried on the support guide assembly (102), the fluid collection tray (140) being positioned towards/on the lowest edge (142) of the support frame (120), and extending forwards of the support frame (120); the tray (140) being in fluid communication with the fluid supply tank (506) via a tray pump (508) and a filter (520), wherein the tray pump (508) is operable to be controlled by the control system (400).

The automated pressure washer system (100, 1000) may further comprise an alignment guide for aligning the support guide assembly (102) with a target radiator (10), wherein the alignment guide comprises a laser (522) which projects a first line (530) to indicate the centre of the support frame (120), a second line (532) to indicate a side of support frame (120), and a third line (534) to indicate an opposing side of the support frame (120).

The support guide assembly (102) may further comprise a splash guard (540) which extends at least the width and height of the support frame (120), is fixed relative to the support frame (120) and extends over the top of the support frame (120).

The fluid nozzle (300, 310) may be a flat spray nozzle (302) configured to generate a flat spray.

The flat spray nozzle (302) may be configured to generate a flat spray parallel to the x-axis. -6 -

The flat spray nozzle (302) may be configured to generate a flat spray at an angle of 45 degrees to the x-axis.

The automated pressure washer system (100) may further comprise: a chassis assembly (500); a support actuator arm (502) which extends from the chassis assembly (500) and carries the support guide assembly (102); and a support arm actuator (504); the support arm actuator (504) being operable to be controlled by the control system (400) to translate the support guide assembly (102) between a retracted position proximal to the chassis assembly (500) and an extended position distal to the chassis assembly (500) The automated pressure washer system (100) may further comprise a safety switch (516); the safety switch (516) being in communication with the control system (400) and operable to: indicate if the safety switch is (516) is in contact with a body (14); and indicate if the safety switch (516) moves out of contact with the body (14); wherein: if the safety switch (516) indicates it is in contact with the body (14), the control system (400) will switch off the support arm actuator (504); and if the safety switch (516) indicates it is out of contact with the body (14), the control system (400) will switch off the jet wash pump (508).

The control system (400) may comprise a storage medium which stores a library of cleaning schedules defined as a function of at least one of: i. vehicle type; ii. radiator type; iii. radiator shape; iv. radiator length and width; v. water flow rate; vi. water pressure at outlet; vii. water temperature; viii. water and detergent percentage mix; ix. nozzle mount traverse speed; and/or -7 -x. nozzle mount traverse pattern.

The chassis assembly (500) may be mounted on wheels (550).

There may also be provided method of operation of an automated pressure washer system (100, 1000) for cleaning radiators (10) of rail vehicle engines. The system (100) may comprise: a nozzle mount (200) for a fluid nozzle (300), the nozzle mount (200) carried on a support guide assembly (102) which defines an x-axis and a y-axis, the x-axis and y-axis being perpendicular to one another; the support guide assembly (102) configured to guide the nozzle mount (200) to x, y positions defined by the support guide assembly (102); and a control system (400) operable to control movement the of the nozzle mount (200) within the range of x, y positions defined by the support guide assembly (102). The method of operation may comprise the steps of the control system (400) controlling the motion of the nozzle mount (200) to: (1) move to a first traverse start position (x1, y1) defined by a first x-coordinate (x1) and a first y-coordinate (y1); (2) traverse in a first Y-direction (Y1) along the y-axis to a first traverse end position (xl, y2) defined by the first x-coordinate (x1) and a second y-coordinate (y2); (3) traverse in a second Y-direction (Y2) along the y-axis back to the first traverse start position (x1, y1); (4) traverse in a first X-direction (X1) along the x-axis, to a second traverse start position (x2, y1) defined by a second x-coordinate (x2) and the first y-coordinate (y1); (5) traverse in the first Y-direction (Y1) along the y-axis to a second traverse end position (x2, y2) defined by a second x-coordinate (x2) and the second y-coordinate (y2); and (6) traverse in the second Y-direction (Y2) along the y-axis back to the second traverse start position (x2, y1).

The method may further comprise the steps of the control system (400) controlling the motion of the nozzle mount (200) to: traverse in the first X-direction (X1) along the x- -8 -axis to the next x-coordinate (xn) until the nozzle mount (200) is at a stop position (xs, y1) defined by the first y-coordinate (y1) and an x coordinate (xs) spaced apart from the first x-coordinate (x1) along the x-axis.

Hence there is provided an automated pressure washer system 100, 100 for cleaning radiators, and a method of operation of an automated pressure washer system which enables effective cleaning of train vehicle radiators by maintaining the water jet nozzle at a constant distance from the radiator, the distance being chosen to provide optimal cleaning results without damaging the radiator. Although a user may be required to position the system and radiator relative to one another, once that is done the user need only turn on the system and the system will move the jet nozzle relative to the radiator in a predetermined pattern, at a chosen water pressure and/or temperature.

Brief Description of the Drawings

Examples of the present disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 shows a first example of a system of the present disclosure located next to rail vehicle and the radiator of the rail vehicle; Figure 2 shows an isometric view of the system of Figure 1; Figure 3 shows a plan view of the system of Figures 1, 2; Figure 4 shows a view of a "control end" of the system of Figure 1; Figure 5 shows a view of a "cleaning head end" of the system of Figure 1 the present disclosure; Figure 6 shows a side view of the system of Figure 1, adjacent a target radiator, with the cleaning head of the system in a retracted position; Figure 7 shows a side view of the system of Figure 1, adjacent a target radiator, with the cleaning head of the system in an extended position; Figure 8 shows an isometric view of the cleaning head of the system of Figure 1, in a direction back towards the rest of the system; Figure 9 shows an isometric view of the cleaning head of the system of Figure 1, in a direction towards the nozzle target area; -9 -Figure 10 shows an end on view of the cleaning head of the system, as shown in Figure 9; Figure 11 shows a side on view of the cleaning head shown in Figures 9, 10; Figures 12 to 16 illustrate the operation of systems of the present disclosure; Figures 17 to 20 show different patterns of water jet that may be produced by

examples of the present disclosure;

Figure 21 shows an isometric view of the first example of the present disclosure, viewed from a different position to that in Figure 2; Figure 22 is a schematic representation of features of the washing system

examples of the present disclosure;

Figure 23 shows an enlarged view of the control panel of the control unit of examples of the present disclosure; Figures 24, 25 illustrates a second example of a system of the present disclosure located next to rail vehicle and the radiator of the rail vehicle; Figure 26 illustrates the system of the second example with nozzle(s) in a retracted position; Figure 27 illustrates the system of the second example with nozzle(s) in an extended position; Figure 28 shows an end/side view of the configuration shown in Figure 26; Figure 29 shows an end/side view of the configuration shown in Figure 27; Figure 30 shows an enlarged view of Figure 28; and Figure 31 shows an enlarged view of Figure 29.

Detailed Description

The present disclosure relates to an automated pressure washer system 100, 1000 for cleaning radiators 10 of an engine of a rail vehicle. That is to say the present disclosure relates to an automated pressure jet washer system 100, 1000 for cleaning a radiator 10 of a rail vehicle engine.

-10 -As set out above the rail vehicle radiator cleaning machine may be portable (e.g. movable on wheels, as shown by the example 100 in Figures 1 to 7, 21) or static (e.g. fixed to one spot/location, as shown by the example 1000 of Figure 24 to 31, next to a representation of a train body 14).

As illustrated in the figures, the automated pressure washer systems 100, 1000 of the present disclosure comprise a nozzle mount 200 carried on a support guide assembly 102. At least one fluid nozzle 300 (i.e. a first fluid nozzle) is fitted to (i.e. carried on) the nozzle mount 200. In the example shown, a second fluid nozzle 310 is also carried by the nozzle mount 200. The nozzles 300, 310 may point (i.e. direct fluid) in the same direction, or may direct fluid be at an angle to one another. The nozzles 300, 310 may point (i.e. direct fluid) in a z-direction, as described below. The nozzles 300, 310 may share a common fluid supply. In the examples shown, the nozzles are operable to be in fluid communication with the same fluid supply tank 506, as will be described with reference to Figure 22. The fluid may be water, or at least comprise water.

The support guide assembly 102 of the systems 100, 1000 of the present disclosure may also be termed a cleaning head. The support guide assembly 102 defines an x-axis and a y-axis, the x-axis and y-axis being perpendicular to one another. The support guide assembly 102 (cleaning head) may define an operational plane (i.e. range of motion of the nozzles 300, 310) defined by the x-axis and y-axis (as shown in Figure 10).

As illustrated in Figures 17,18, each fluid nozzle 300, 310 may be a flat spray nozzle 302 configured to generate a flat spray. As illustrated in Figure 17, the fluid nozzles 300, 310 may be flat spray nozzles 302 that generate a flat spray parallel to the x-axis. As illustrated in Figure 18, the flat spray nozzle 302 may be a flat spray nozzle 302 that generate a flat spray at an angle of 45 degrees to the x-axis.

As shown in Figures 10 to 16 the nozzle mount 200 (and hence the or each fluid nozzles 300, 310) is moveable relative to the support guide assembly 102. The support guide assembly 102 is configured to constrain (i.e. limit) the movement of the nozzle mount 200 to positions on the operational plane. That is to say, the support guide assembly 102 is configured to guide the movement of the nozzle mount 200 to x, y positions defined by the support guide assembly 102.

The system further comprises a control system 400 operable to define the positions of the nozzle mount 200 on the operational plane. That is to say, the control system 400 is operable to control movement of the nozzle mount 200 within the range of the x, y positions defined by the support guide assembly 102 by controlling actuators (for example, as will be described, actuators 130, 132, 134) which cause motion of the nozzle mount 200.

As shown in Figure 10, the support guide assembly 102 comprises a first x-axis support guide 114 aligned with the x-axis and a y-axis support guide 116 aligned with the y-axis. The x-axis support guide 114 and the y-axis support guide 116 may each be provided as a track member or arm.

The y-axis support guide 116 is carried on the x-axis support guide 114. The first x-axis support guide 114 is configured to constrain the movement of the y-axis support guide 116 along the along the x-axis. That is to say, the first x-axis support guide 114 defines a guide path for the y-axis support guide 116 to travel along. The first x-axis support guide 114 is configured to guide the y-axis support guide 116 along the x-axis.

The y-axis support guide 116 is configured to constrain the movement of the nozzle mount 200 along the y-axis to thereby constrain movement of the nozzle mount 200 to positions in (or parallel to) the operational plane. That is to say, the y-axis support guide 116 defines a guide path for the nozzle mount 200 to travel along. Put another way, the y-axis support guide 116 is configured to guide the movement of the nozzle mount 200 along the y-axis to thereby define (i.e. control) movement of the nozzle mount 200 to the x, y positions defined by the support guide assembly 102.

Hence in the example of Figures 1 to 11, the nozzles 300, 310 are controlled to move in a 2-dimensional plane (the "operational plane"). That is to say, in the examples of Figures 1 to 11, the nozzle mount 200, and hence nozzles 300, 310, are limited to -12 -movement in a 2-dimensional plane defined by the x, y axes. This is illustrated with reference to Figure 12 to 20.

In the example 1000 of Figures 24 to 31 the nozzle mount 200 further comprises a z-axis support guide 118 aligned with a z-axis and configured to guide the nozzle mount 200 along the z-axis to thereby control z movement (i.e. direction) of the nozzle mount 200. The z-axis is perpendicular to the x-axis and y-axis. The z-axis support guide 118 may be provided as a track member or arm.

In the examples shown, the x axis and z axis are horizontal and the y axis is vertical. The x axis and y axis are parallel to an external face of the radiator 10 to be cleaned. The z axis is orientated to be perpendicular to the external face of the radiator 10 to be cleaned.

The x-axis support guide 114 comprises an x-axis actuator 130 which is engaged with the y-axis support guide 116. The x-axis actuator 130 is operable to be controlled by the control system 400 to translate (i.e. displace, move) the y-axis support guide 116 along the first x-axis support guide 114.

The y-axis support guide 116 comprises a y-axis actuator 132 which is engaged with the nozzle mount 200. The y-axis actuator 132 is operable to be controlled by the control system 400 to translate (i.e. displace, move) the nozzle mount 200 along the y-axis support guide 114. Hence the nozzle mount 200 is carried on the y-axis support guide 116.

In the examples of Figures 24 to 31 the nozzle mount 200 comprises a z-axis actuator 134. This is mounted to the y-axis support guide 116. The z-axis actuator 134 is operable to be controlled by the control system 400 to translate the z-axis support guide 118 (i.e. track member or arm) along the z-axis. That is to say, the z-axis actuator 134 is operable to be controlled by the control system 400 to translate the nozzle mount 200 along the z-axis.

-13 -The x-axis actuator 130 may be any appropriate arrangement and/or device for moving the y-axis support guide 116 along the first x-axis support guide 114. The y-axis actuator 132 may be any appropriate arrangement and/or for moving nozzle mount 200 along the y-axis support guide 116. The z-axis actuator 134 may be any appropriate arrangement and/or for moving nozzle mount 200 along the z-axis.

Hence in the examples of Figures 24 to 31, the nozzles 300, 310 are controlled to move in a 2-dimensional plane defined by the x, y axes, but is also operable to move in a direction at right angles to the 2-dimensional plane defined by the x, y axes (e.g. perpendicular to the target surface of the radiator). However, other than being operable to move in the z-dimension, the operation of the automated pressure washer system of Figures 24 to 31 is the same as in the first example of figures 1 to 7, 21.

As shown in Figures 2, 3, 5, 8 to 10, the support guide assembly 102 further comprises a support frame 120. In the example shown the support frame 120 is rectangular. In alternative examples it may have other shapes, for example square, or a shape to match the radiator surface to be cleaned.

As shown in Figures 10, 11, the first x-axis support guide 114 is mounted to a first side 119 of the support frame 120. The support frame 120 defines an aperture 122. The first x-axis support guide 114 is mounted to a first side 121 (e.g. edge) of the aperture 122. The y-axis support guide 116 spans the aperture 122. The fluid nozzle 300 is aligned on the nozzle mount 200 to direct fluid through the aperture 122.

The automated pressure washer system 100 may further comprise a second x-axis support guide 115 mounted to the support frame 120 on a second side 123 (e.g. edge) of the aperture 122, opposite to the first side 121 (e.g. edge) across the aperture 122, wherein the y-axis support guide 116 is carried on the second x-axis support guide 115 as well as the first x-axis support guide 114.

Both examples of the present disclosure are provided with a fluid supply tank 506, a pump 508, a heating unit 514 and a first control valve 560. This is shown schematically -14 -in Figure 22. Solid lines indicate a fluid connection (i.e. a fluid conduit 518), and dashed lines indicate a control link. For clarity, the fluid links and control links are not shown in the other figures.

The first fluid nozzle 300 is in fluid communication with the fluid supply tank 506 via the pump 508, heating unit 514 and a first control valve 560 through a fluid conduit 518. Hence, they are provided in series along the fluid conduit 518 to define a flow path, in the order of the first fluid nozzle 300, the first control valve 560, the heating unit 514, the pump 508 and fluid supply tank 506.

Thus the first control valve 560 is provided between the first fluid nozzle 300 and heating unit 514.

The second fluid nozzle 310 is also in fluid communication with the fluid supply tank 506 via the pump 508 and heating unit 514 through the fluid conduit 518. Hence, they are provided in series along the fluid conduit 518 to define a flow path, in the order of the second fluid nozzle 310, the second control valve 562, the heating unit 514, the pump 508 and fluid supply tank 506.

The second control valve 562 is provided between the second fluid nozzle 310 and heating unit 514.

The first control valve 560 and/or second control valve 562 may be provided as solenoid valves.

The fluid conduit is provided with a bifurcation 519 (i.e. splits into branches) between control valves 560, 562 and the heating unit 514, dividing the flow conduit into parallel sub-conduits (i.e. branches) 518a, 518b, so that the control valves 560, 562 are in parallel to one another. Thus the flow along the conduit 518, when it reaches the bifurcation 519, will either travel to the first control valve 560 and first nozzle 300 through -15 -sub-conduit 518a, or through the second control valve 562 and second nozzle 310 through sub-conduit 518b.

The system may further comprise a detergent supply tank 510 in fluid communication with the fluid conduit 518 between the heating unit 514 and the bifurcation 519.

As illustrated in Figure 22 using dashed lines, the control unit 400 is in control communication with the first control valve 560, the second control valve 562, the x-axis actuator 130, the y-axis actuator 132 (and in examples where present, a support arm actuator 504, and z-axis actuator 134), tray scavenge pump 509, jet wash pump 508, heater unit 514 and guide laser 522, and it operable to receive a signal from the safety switch 512.

The pump 508 may be operable to be controlled by the control system 400 to deliver fluid from the fluid supply tank 506 to the first fluid nozzle 300 through the fluid conduit 518 (including sub-conduits 518a, 518b).

The first control valve 560 has a first flow area FA1. The second control valve 562 may have a second flow area FA2 which is greater than the first flow area FA1 of the first control valve 560. Hence for the same fluid delivery pressure, the volume (or mass) flow rate through the first control valve 560 will be smaller than through the second control valve 562.

The first control valve 560 may be operable to be controlled by the control system 400 to be open or closed. The second control valve 562 may be operable to be controlled by the control system 400 to be open when the first control valve 560 is closed, or closed when the first control valve 560 is open.

The control system 400 may be operated by a control panel 402, as shown in Figure 22 with an enlarged view in Figure 23. The control system 400 shown is operable to receive -16 -an input regarding the type of washing cycle to be executed, for example "Quick" and "Full".

If the input is for a "Quick" wash cycle, the second control valve 562 is controlled to be closed, and the first control valve 560 is controlled to be open, so all of the flow passes through the first nozzle 300. The control system 400 controls the washer pump 508 to output cleaning fluid (e.g. water from tank 506) at a predetermined high pressure (for example in the range of 110 to 140 bar) and the heating unit 514 is controlled to heat the pressurised cleaning fluid to a predetermined high temperature. The cleaning fluid may be heated by the heating unit 514 to a temperature in the range of 60 to 95 deg C. The cleaning fluid may be heated by the heating unit 514 to a temperature of about 80 deg C. The cleaning fluid may be heated by the heating unit 514 to a maximum temperature of about 80 deg C. The "Quick" wash cycle may be controlled to execute for about six minutes. The fluid coupling between the detergent tank 510 and fluid conduit 518 is coupled to inhibit/prevent detergent to flow during the "Quick" wash cycle so that only water (cleaning fluid) from the tank 506 is delivered to the fluid nozzle 300.

The water pump 508 may be configured to pressurise the cleaning fluid to about 130 bar.

The system may comprise a heating unit for heating the cleaning fluid to a temperature of 90 deg C at exit from the fluid nozzle 300.

If the input is for a "Full" wash cycle, then a two stage cleaning process is executed.

In Stage 1 the first control valve 560 is controlled to be closed, and the second control valve 562 is controlled to be open, so all of the flow passes through the second fluid nozzle 310. The control system 400 controls the washer pump 508 to output cleaning fluid (e.g. water from tank 506) at a predetermined low pressure (for example in the range of 40 bar to 60 bar) and the heating unit 514 to heat the pressurised cleaning fluid to a predetermined low temperature (for example ambient temperature of where the equipment is being operated). The fluid coupling between the detergent tank 510 and fluid conduit 518 is coupled to permit detergent to flow during Stage 1, thereby -17 -introducing detergent into the conduit for mixing with the water (cleaning fluid) from the tank 506 before delivery to the fluid nozzle 300.

In Stage 2 the "Quick" wash cycle is run, delivering flow through the first control valve 560 and first fluid nozzle 300 but not the second control valve 562 and second fluid nozzle 310. The fluid coupling between the detergent tank 510 and fluid conduit 518 is coupled to inhibit/prevent detergent to flow during Stage 2, so that only water (cleaning fluid) from the tank 506 is delivered to the fluid nozzle 300.

The "Full" wash cycle may be controlled to execute for about twelve minutes.

Hence the Stage 1 cycle delivers fluid (e.g. water) at a higher pressure and temperature than the Stage 2 "Quick" cycle Since the flow areas FA1, FA2 of the solenoids 560, 562 are different, the pressure at exit from the first flow nozzle 300 will be greater than at exit from the second flow nozzle 310. Hence the solenoids 506, 562 and their control provides a system for switching between high pressure without detergent and low pressure with detergent without the operator needing to adjust the nozzles 300, 310 which (because of their proximity to the radiator) may be difficult to access.

The automated pressure washer system 100 may further comprise a chassis assembly 500. In the first example shown in Figures 1 to 7, 21, the chassis assembly 500 may be mounted on wheels 550. In the example Figures 24 to 31 the chassis assembly 500 may be fixed to a substrate (for example a platform).

With reference to the first example, and as shown in Figure 6, 7, a support actuator arm 502 extends from the chassis assembly 500. A support arm actuator 504 extends from the chassis assembly 500 and carries the support guide assembly 102. The support arm actuator 504 is operable to be controlled by the control system 400 to translate (i.e. displace, move) the support guide assembly 102 between a retracted position proximal -18 -to the chassis assembly 500 (as shown in Figure 6) and an extended position distal to the chassis assembly 500 (as shown in Figure 7).

As illustrated in Figures 2, 3, 4, 5 to 9, 10, a fluid collection tray 140 is carried on, and may be pivotable relative to, the support guide assembly 102. The fluid collection tray 140 is positioned towards/on the lowest edge 142 of the support frame 120, and extends forwards of the support frame 120. The tray 140 is in fluid communication with the fluid supply tank 506 via a tray scavenge pump 509 and a filter 520, wherein the tray pump 508 is operable to be controlled by the control system 400 to pump fluid from the tray 140 (collected during operation of the jet washer) back to the fluid supply tank 506 via the filter 520.

The automated pressure washer system 100 may further comprise an alignment guide for aligning the support guide assembly 102 with a target radiator 10. The alignment guide assembly 102 may comprise a laser 522. The laser 522 is mounted on the chassis 500 or cleaning head 102 in a location where it faces, without obstruction, through the aperture 122 in the support frame 12. As illustrated in Figure 10, the laser generates a first line 530 to indicate the centre of the support frame 120. Alternatively, or additionally, the laser generates a second line 532 to indicate a side of support frame 120, and a third line 534 to indicate an opposing side of the support frame 120.

Put another way, and as shown in Figure 10, the laser projects a first vertical line of light 530 to indicate the centre of the support frame 120. Alternatively, or additionally, the laser projects a second vertical line of light 532 to indicate to the user where the side of the support frame 120 is relative to the radiator 10. Alternatively, or additionally, the laser projects a third vertical line of light 534 to indicate to the user where an opposing side of the support frame 120 is relative to the radiator 10.

The support guide assembly 102 further comprises a splash guard 540 which (as shown in Figures 6, 7) extends at least the width and height of the support frame 120, and which is fixed relative to the support frame 120 and extends over the top of the support frame 120. This is positioned to prevent/limit mist and spray generated during operation -19 -of the jet wash from being directed towards a user standing at a control section of the system.

As set out above, the automated pressure washer system 100 may further comprise a safety switch 516. As shown in Figures 5,6, 7, 11,21 the safety switch may be mounted to the support frame 120 (for example, the top edge), with a probe that extends forwards beyond the frame.The safety switch 516 is in communication with the control system 400 and operable to indicate if the safety switch is 516 is in contact with a body 10, 14 (e.g. any object, for example the radiator 10, the radiator housing or train body 10, 14).

The safety switch 516 is also operable to indicate if the safety switch 516 moves out of contact with the body 10, 14 If the safety switch 516 indicates it is in contact with a body 10, 14, the control system 400 will control the pump 508 to operate. If the safety switch 516 indicates it is in contact with a body 10, 14, the control system 400 will switch off the support arm actuator 504. If the safety switch 516 indicates it is out of (i.e. no in) contact with the body 10, 14, in the control system 400 will stop the pump 508.

The control system 400 may comprise an electronic storage medium which stores a library of cleaning schedules.

The pumps, actuators and heater may be electrically powered.

In some examples of the system, in particular the portable first example of figures 1 to 7, 21, the system may comprise at least one battery 600 for storing electricity for powering the pumps, actuators and/or heater. There may also be provided a charger (e.g. a smart charger). In some examples the system may be configured to be connected to a mains electrical supply. In other examples the system may further comprise an internal combustion engine 602 (for example a diesel or petrol fuelled) to provide either power an electrical generator to supplement the electrical supply from the battery 600, or to drive (for example via a gear box) one or more of the pumps. -20 -

In some examples the actuators 130, 132, 134, 504 (where present) and control system 400 are powered by the battery supply 600, and the water jet pump 508 and heating unit 514 are powered by the engine 602 (either directly or indirectly via a generator), the output of the battery supply 600 being isolated from the output of the engine 602 Hence the system of the present disclosure relates to an automated device configured to clean radiators fitted to the side of rail vehicles, and may be configured to operate to a different cleaning schedule depending on the size and/or type of radiator.

The schedule to which the system works is predetermined for each radiator size and/or type, and may be a function of at least one of: a. vehicle type; b. radiator type; c. radiator shape; d. radiator length and width; e. water flow rate; f. water pressure at outlet; g. water temperature; h. water and detergent percentage mix; i. nozzle mount traverse speed; and/or j. nozzle mount traverse pattern.

Hence, in operation, an operator uses the control panel 402 to input the type of vehicle and/or radiator to the control system 400, and the type of wash cycle to be executed.

The control system 400 selects a schedule associated with the vehicle and/or radiator from the library of schedules, and will operate according to the schedule which corresponds to the vehicle and/or radiator type. -21 -

Hence the user may choose a "Quick" cycle (as described previously), which will execute a high pressure, high temperature clean.

Alternatively the use may define a "Full" cycle (as described previously), to execute a pre-wash at low pressure including a detergent, followed by a high pressure and temperature cycle.

In use, the system is deployed from a platform (e.g. a platform in a train station) adjacent to the radiator while the radiator is in situ on the rail vehicle. Hence the radiator need not be removed from the rail vehicle to be cleaned. The support guide assembly 102 (i.e. the cleaning head) is aligned to the radiator by the operator. This may be done by eye, or the user may operate the laser alignment guide 522 which projects a centre line (first line) 530 of the cleaning head onto the radiator to give the operator a visual guide to centralise the machine about the radiator. In other examples a different sensor type may be used, for example a distance detector (to determine where the edge of the radiator is) or an image detection system which indicated when the cleaning head is aligned.

In some examples, the laser alignment guide 522 projects a set of guide lines, for example three vertical lines -a central line to be set at the centre of the radiator and two outer lines to be aligned with the outer edges of the radiator. That is to say a first line 530 to indicate the centre of the support frame 120 for alignment with the centre of the radiator, a second line 532 to indicate a side of support frame 120, and a third line 534 to indicate an opposing side of the support frame 120. Thus a user may align the centre of the cleaning head 102 with the centre of the radiator, and as a double check can refer to the second line 532 and third line 534 to confirm where the edges of the cleaning head 102 are, and hence to ensure the radiator is within the edges of the cleaning head 102.

In the first example of Figure 1 to 7, 21, the cleaning head 102 may be extended from the retracted position to the extended position by operating a switch on the control system panel 402 to engage a support arm actuator 504 to thereby extend the support actuator arm 502. When the safety switch 516 comes into contact with an object (for example the housing of the radiator) safety switch 516 sends a signal to the control system 500 the stop the support arm actuator 504 advancing the cleaning head 102. -22 -

That is to say, the system is configured such that which the stop/safety switch 516 is engaged with a solid object, the motor controlling the cleaning head position is switched off.

Further, the system is configured such that if the safety/stop switch is disengaged from solid object, the jet wash is inoperable. This is in case the support guide assembly 102 is inadvertently moved away from the correct position, and stops the jet wash from causing damage to components or users.

In a non limiting example the support guide assembly 102 is controlled to be positioned about 100mm from the radiator surface. Hence, at all points of operation of the fluid nozzle, it will be maintained at a substantially constant distance from the radiator.

In the second example of Figures 24 to 31, which stands (e.g. is mounted) to a platform, the support guide assembly 102 and support 120 may be in a fixed position, and the train vehicle 14 is moved into position next to the support guide assembly 102. The second example comprises the z-axis support guide 118 which is aligned with the z-axis, and configured to guide the nozzle mount 200 along the z-axis to thereby control z movement of the nozzle mount 200. Hence, with the train in position, the z-axis actuator 134 is operated (e.g. controlled by the control system 400) to translate the nozzle mount 200 along the z-axis from a retracted position (as shown in Figures 26, 28, 30) towards the radiator 10 until it is in the desired extended position (as shown in Figures 27, 29, 31).

The nozzle mount 200 may be translated to a predetermined extended position (e.g. determined based on the expected position of the radiator 10), or may stop in response to a signal received from a distance/proximity sensor or the like.

Since the support guide assembly 102 is pivotable, its angle relative to the vertical may be altered, to thereby allow it to be angled such that it is parallel to the radiator, and so a constant distance is maintained between the fluid nozzle and the radiator during operation. -23 -

In more detail, the process for operating the machine of the present disclosure may include the steps of: Switching on the system 100; * Turn on the laser guide (as shown in Figure 10); Push the system into position, for example about 500mm to 750mm from the rail vehicle and align centre of cleaning head with centre of radiator (as shown in Figures 6, 10); * Lower the water catch tray 140 (as applicable, as shown in Figure 6); Operate the support arm actuator 504 to extend the cleaning head 102 from the main body/chassis 500 of the unit 100; Start the main pump system; Select which radiator cleaning schedule is to be used; Start the cleaning cycle. A cycle running indicator may flash to alert the operator that the machine is mid cycle. Water is caught by the water catch tray, filtered and reused as part of the pleasing process.

In further examples, the system may be operable to include in the schedule the steps of: * a pre-wash cycle -using chemicals and low pressure * a pause to allow chemicals to take effect; a cleaning when going up and down only; and/or shutting off the machine/system once the cycle is complete.

Each cleaning cycle may take about 5 to 12 minutes.

With the nozzle mount 200 in the correct position relative to the radiator (as shown in Figures 7, 27, 29, 31), the nozzle mount 200 may then be operated to move between the x, y positions defined by the support guide assembly 102 -e.g. parallel to the surface of the radiator. The method of operation of the different examples of the automated pressure washer systems 100, 1000 of the present disclosure is shown in Figures 12 -24 -to 16, and may comprise, with the jet nozzle continuously directing fluid towards the radiator, the steps of operating the control system 400 to, in series: (1) move the nozzle mount (200) to a first traverse start position (x1, y1) defined by a first x-coordinate (x1) and a first y-coordinate (y1), as shown in Figure 12; (2) traverse the nozzle mount (200) in a first Y-direction (Y1) along the y-axis to a first traverse end position (x1, y2) defined by the first x-coordinate (x1) and a second y-coordinate (y2), as shown in Figures 12, 16; (3) traverse the nozzle mount 200 in a second Y-direction C(2) along the y-axis back to the first traverse start position (x1, y1), as shown in Figures 13, 16; (4) traverse the nozzle mount 200 in a first X-direction (X1) along the x-axis, to a second traverse start position (x2, y1) defined by a second x-coordinate (x2) and the first y-coordinate (y1), as shown in Figures 14, 16; (5) traverse the nozzle mount 200 in the first Y-direction (Y1) along the y-axis to a second traverse end position (x2, y2) defined by the second x-coordinate (x2) and the second y-coordinate (y2), as shown in Figure 15, 16; and (6) traverse the nozzle mount 200 in the second Y-direction (Y2) along the y-axis back to the second traverse start position (x2, y1), as shown in Figure 16.

The method of operation further comprises the steps of repeating the steps, as shown in Figure 16, of: (7) moving the nozzle mount (200) in the first X-direction (X1) along the x-axis to the next traverse start position (xn, y1) defined by the next x-coordinate (xn) and first y-coordinate (y1); (8) traversing the nozzle mount (200) in the first Y-direction (Y1) along the y-axis to the next traverse end position (xn, y2) defined by the respective x-coordinate (xn) and the second y-coordinate (y2); then (9) traversing the nozzle mount (200) in the second Y-direction (Y2) along the y-axis back to the respective traverse start position (xn, y1). -25 -

These three steps are repeated in series until the nozzle mount (200) is at a stop position (xs, y1) defined by the first y-coordinate (y1) and a final x coordinate (xs) spaced apart from the first x-coordinate along the x-axis (as shown in Figure 16).

The y1-coordinate may correspond to a frame/housing of the radiator which supports the cooling elements (fins). Hence when the nozzle mount is being traversed in the X1 direction, water being directed on a surface spaced apart from the radiator cooling elements.

Hence the x, y co-ordinates define the operational plane, and the area extending between (i.e. defined by) the four corners (x1, y1), (x1, y2), (xs, y1), (xs, y2) approximately define the area of the radiator being cleaned.

The fluid nozzle 300 may be a flat spray nozzle 302 configured to generate a flat spray, a cross-section of which is shown (looking in direction of travel of spray) in Figures 17, 18. The fluid nozzle 300, when carried in the fluid mount 200, directs at least some of the spray in a direction along and/or parallel to the z-axis. The flat spray forms a line 304 of contact with the radiator surface. That is to say, the spray generated by the fluid nozzle 300 forms a line 304 where it contacts a target surface. As shown in Figure 18 the fluid nozzle 300 may be configured and orientated so the flat spray line 304 is at an angle Al degrees to the x-axis. That is to say, the fluid nozzle 300 may be configured and orientated so the flat spray (i.e. cross-section line 304 of the flat spray) is at an angle Al degrees to the x-axis. Al may have a value of range of 25 to 55. Al may have a value of range of 35 to 55. Al may have a value of range of 40 to 50. Al may have a value of about 45.

As shown in Figure 19 the step in the first x-direction X1 may be such that the spray line 304 of a subsequent traverse overlaps at overlap region 306 with a region which has already been traversed -26 -As shown in Figure 20 each step in the first x-direction X1 may be such that the spray line 304 of a subsequent transverse substantially borders, but does not substantially overlap a region which has already been traversed.

The water pump may be configured to pressurise the cleaning fluid to about 130 bar.

The control system 400 may be operated by a control panel 402, as shown in Figure 22 with an enlarged view in Figure 23. The control system 400 shown is operable to receive an input regarding the type of washing cycle to be executed, for example "Quick" and "Full".

If the input is for a "Quick" wash cycle, then a one stage cleaning process is executed, so that the x, y traverse described above moving from position (x1, y1) to (xs, y1) occurs once.

If the input is for a "Full" wash cycle, then a two stage cleaning process is executed. In this case, the x, y traverse described above moving the nozzle mount 200 from position (x1, y1) to (xs, y1) occurs first for Stage 1, after which the nozzle mount 200 returns to the (xl, yl) position (for example by executing a traverse in a direction opposite to the X1 direction) and the x, y traverse described above moving from position (x1, y1) to (xs, y1) is repeated for Stage 2.

Hence there is provided a stand-alone rail vehicle radiator cleaning machine, provided as an automated pressure washer system, which may be operated by a method of the present disclosure.

As set out above the rail vehicle radiator cleaning machine may be portable (i.e. movable on wheels) or static. -27 -

The support guide assembly 102 of the system enables effective cleaning of train vehicle radiators by maintaining the water jet nozzle at a constant distance from the radiator. The distance is predetermined to provide optimal cleaning results without damaging components of the radiator. Although a user may be required to position the chassis of the system relative to the radiator, once that is done the user need only turn on the system and the system will moved the jet nozzle relative to the radiator in a predetermined pattern, at a chosen water pressure and/or temperature.

The system of the present disclosure will achieve consistent cleaning results, as well as using hot water, cold water and detergents efficiently. The system also reduces risk of injury or discomfort to the user by separating them from the act of cleaning, as the user may keep a safe distance from the water jet while cleaning is in operation.

The system may be programmed (i.e. configured and/or set) to clean radiators of different sizes and so is also advantageously adaptable.

Since the system may be carried on wheels (for example swivel castors), the system is easily transported and manoeuvred on site, and may be located in position with failsafe brakes.

As the system is provided with configured with a fluid reservoir, and recycles the cleaning fluid (e.g. water) caught in the fluid collection tray 140, it can be operated in position without the need for hoses connecting it to a water supply. Since the system also recycles some of the fluid used, it may clean more radiators per unit volume of water than a jet washer connected to a constant flow fluid supply. In one example the fluid reservoir is sized so that it may clean up to ten radiators before the water supply tank requires draining and refilling.

Attention is directed to all papers and documents which are filed concurrently with or previous to this specification in connection with this application and which are open to public inspection with this specification, and the contents of all such papers and documents are incorporated herein by reference. -28 -

All of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), and/or all of the steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any combination, except combinations where at least some of such features and/or steps are mutually exclusive.

Each feature disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings) may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent or similar purpose, unless expressly stated otherwise. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is one example only of a generic series of equivalent or similar features.

The invention is not restricted to the details of the foregoing embodiment(s). The invention extends to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), or to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the steps of any method or process so disclosed. -29 -

Claims

CLAIMS1 An automated pressure washer system (100, 1000) for cleaning radiators (10) of an engine of a rail vehicle (14), the system (100) comprising: a nozzle mount (200) for a fluid nozzle (300), the nozzle mount (200) being carried on a support guide assembly (102) which defines an x-axis and a y-axis, the x-axis and y-axis being perpendicular to one another; the nozzle mount (200) being moveable relative to the support guide assembly (102); the support guide assembly (102) configured to guide the nozzle mount (200) to x, y positions defined by the support guide assembly (102); and a control system (400) operable to control movement of the nozzle mount (200) within the range of x, y positions defined by the support guide assembly (102).
2 An automated pressure washer system (100, 1000) as claimed in claim 1 wherein: the support guide assembly (102) comprises: a first x-axis support guide (114); a y-axis support guide (116); the y-axis support guide (116) being carried on the x-axis support guide (114); the first x-axis support guide (114) configured to guide the y-axis support guide (116) along the x-axis; the y-axis support guide (116) configured to guide the nozzle mount (200) along the y-axis; to thereby control x, y movement of the nozzle mount (200) to the x, y positions defined by the support guide assembly (102).

-30 -
3 An automated pressure washer system (1000) as claimed in claim 1 wherein: the nozzle mount (200) comprises: a z-axis support guide (118) aligned with a z-axis and configured to guide the nozzle mount (200) along the z-axis to thereby control z movement of the nozzle mount (200); the z-axis being perpendicular to the x-axis and y-axis.
4 An automated pressure washer system (100, 1000) as claimed in claim 2 or claim 3 wherein the x-axis support guide (114) comprises an x-axis actuator (130) which is engaged with the y-axis support guide (116); the x-axis actuator (130) being operable to be controlled by the control system (400) to translate the y-axis support guide (116) along the first x-axis support guide (114).
5 An automated pressure washer system (100, 1000) as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 4 wherein the y-axis support guide (116) comprises a y-axis actuator (132) which is engaged with the nozzle mount (200), the y-axis actuator (132) being operable to be controlled by the control system (400) to translate the nozzle mount (200) along the y-axis support guide (114).
6 An automated pressure washer system (1000) as claimed in any of claims 2 to 5 wherein the nozzle mount (200) comprises a z-axis actuator (134); the z-axis actuator (134) being operable to be controlled by the control system (400) to translate the nozzle mount (200) along the z-axis.
7 An automated pressure washer system (100) as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 6 wherein the support guide assembly (102) further comprises a support frame (120), and the first x-axis support guide (114) is mounted to a first side (119) of the support frame (120) -31 - 8 An automated pressure washer system (100, 1000) as claimed in claim 7 wherein the support frame (120) defines an aperture (122); the first x-axis support guide (114) being mounted to a first side (121) of the aperture (122); the y-axis support guide (116) spanning the aperture (122); and the fluid nozzle (300) is aligned on the nozzle mount (200) to direct fluid through the aperture (122).9 An automated pressure washer system (100, 1000) as claimed in claim 8 further comprising a second x-axis support guide (115) mounted to the support frame (120) on a second side (123) of the aperture (122), opposite to the first side (121) across the aperture (122); the y-axis support guide (116) carried on the second x-axis support guide (115).An automated pressure washer system (100, 1000) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims further comprising a fluid supply tank (506), a pump (508) a heating unit (514) and a first control valve (560); wherein the fluid nozzle (300) is a first fluid nozzle (300), and is in fluid communication with the fluid supply tank (506) via the pump (508), heating unit (514) and first control valve (560) through a fluid conduit (518); the first control valve (560) being provided between the first fluid nozzle (300) and heating unit (514); the first control valve (560) having a first flow area (FA1); the pump (508) being operable to be controlled by the control system (400) to deliver fluid from the fluid supply tank (506) to the first fluid nozzle (300) through the fluid conduit (518); and the first control valve (560) being operable to be controlled by the control system (400) to be open or closed.-32 - 11 An automated pressure washer system (100, 1000) as claimed in claim 10 further comprising a detergent supply tank (510), the detergent supply tank (510) being in fluid communication with the fluid conduit (518).12 An automated pressure washer system (100, 1000) as claimed in claim 10 or claim 11 wherein a second fluid nozzle (310) is carried by the nozzle mount (200) and is in fluid communication with the fluid supply tank (506) via the pump (508) and heating unit (514) through the fluid conduit (518); the second control valve (562) being provided between the second fluid nozzle (310) and heating unit (514); the second control valve (562) having a second flow area (FA2) which is greater than the first flow area (FA1) of the first control valve (560); the second control valve (562) being operable to be controlled by the control system (400) to be open when the first control valve (560) is closed, or closed when the first control valve (560) is open.13 An automated pressure washer system (100, 1000) as claimed in any one of claims 10 to 12 wherein a fluid collection tray (140) is carried on the support guide assembly (102), the fluid collection tray (140) being positioned towards/on the lowest edge (142) of the support frame (120), and extending forwards of the support frame (120); the tray (140) being in fluid communication with the fluid supply tank (506) via a tray pump (508) and a filter (520), wherein the tray pump (508) is operable to be controlled by the control system (400).14 An automated pressure washer system (100, 1000) as claimed in any one of claims 10 to 13 further comprising an alignment guide for aligning the support guide assembly (102) with a target radiator (10), wherein the alignment guide comprises a laser (522) which projects a first line (530) to indicate the centre of the support frame (120), a second line (532) to indicate a side of support -33 -frame (120), and a third line (534) to indicate an opposing side of the support frame (120).An automated pressure washer system (100, 1000) as claimed in claims 7 to 14 wherein the support guide assembly (102) further comprises a splash guard (540) which extends at least the width and height of the support frame (120), is fixed relative to the support frame (120) and extends over the top of the support frame (120). 16An automated pressure washer system (100, 1000) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the fluid nozzle (300, 310) is a flat spray nozzle (302) configured to generate a flat spray.An automated pressure washer system (100, 1000) as claimed in claim 16 wherein the flat spray nozzle (302) generates a flat spray parallel to the x-axis.An automated pressure washer system (100, 1000) as claimed in claim 16 wherein the flat spray nozzle (302) generates a flat spray at an angle of 45 degrees to the x-axis.An automated pressure washer system (100) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims further comprising: a chassis assembly (500); a support actuator arm (502) which extends from the chassis assembly (500) and carries the support guide assembly (102); and a support arm actuator (504), the support arm actuator (504) being operable to be controlled by the control system (400) to translate the support guide assembly (102) between a retracted position proximal to the chassis assembly (500) and an extended position distal to the chassis assembly (500).-34 -An automated pressure washer system (100) as claimed in any one claims 13 to 19 further comprising a safety switch (516); the safety switch (516) being in communication with the control system (400) and operable to: indicate if the safety switch is (516) is in contact with a body (14); and indicate if the safety switch (516) moves out of contact with the body (14); wherein: if the safety switch (516) indicates it is in contact with the body (14), the control system (400) will switch off the support arm actuator (504); and if the safety switch (516) indicates it is out of contact with the body (14), the control system (400) will switch off the jet wash pump (508).21 An automated pressure washer system (100, 1000) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the control system (400) comprises a storage medium which stores a library of cleaning schedules defined as a function of at least one of: i. vehicle type; ii. radiator type; iii. radiator shape; iv. radiator length and width; v. water flow rate; vi. water pressure at outlet; vii. water temperature; viii. water and detergent percentage mix; ix. nozzle mount traverse speed; and/or x. nozzle mount traverse pattern.-35 - 22 An automated pressure washer system (100, 1000) as claimed in claims 19 to 21 wherein the chassis assembly (500) is mounted on wheels (550).23 A method of operation of an automated pressure washer system (100, 1000) for cleaning radiators (10) of rail vehicle engines; the system (100) comprising: a nozzle mount (200) for a fluid nozzle (300), the nozzle mount (200) carried on a support guide assembly (102) which defines an x-axis and a y-axis, the x-axis and y-axis being perpendicular to one another; the support guide assembly (102) configured to guide the nozzle mount (200) to x, y positions defined by the support guide assembly (102); and a control system (400) operable to control movement the of the nozzle mount (200) within the range of x, y positions defined by the support guide assembly (102); the method of operation comprising the steps of the control system (400) controlling the motion of the nozzle mount (200) to: (1) move to a first traverse start position (x1, y1) defined by a first x-coordinate (x1) and a first y-coordinate (y1); (2) traverse in a first Y-direction (Y1) along the y-axis to a first traverse end position (x1, y2) defined by the first x-coordinate (x1) and a second y-coordinate (y2); (3) traverse in a second Y-direction (Y2) along the y-axis back to the first traverse start position (x1, y1); (4) traverse in a first X-direction (X1) along the x-axis, to a second traverse start position (x2, y1) defined by a second x-coordinate (x2) and the first y-coordinate (y1); (5) traverse in the first Y-direction (Y1) along the y-axis to a second traverse end position (x2, y2) defined by the second x-coordinate (x2) and the second y-coordinate (y2); and (6) traverse in the second Y-direction (Y2) along the y-axis back to the second traverse start position (x2, y1).-36 - 24 A method of operation of an automated pressure washer system (100, 1000) as claimed in claim 23, further comprising the steps of the control system (400) controlling the motion of the nozzle mount (200) to: traverse in the first X-direction (X1) along the x-axis to the next x-coordinate (xn) until the nozzle mount (200) is at a stop position (xs, y1) defined by the first y-coordinate (y1) and an x coordinate (xs) spaced apart from the first x-coordinate (x1) along the x-axis.