IE59155B1

IE59155B1 - Car wash apparatus

Info

Publication number: IE59155B1
Application number: IE227486A
Authority: IE
Original assignee: Pandion Haliaetus Limited; Silver Security Ltd; Champion Security Ltd; Linara Invest Ltd
Priority date: 1986-08-26
Filing date: 1986-08-26
Publication date: 1994-01-12
Also published as: GB2202503B; IE862274L; GB2202503A; GB8804398D0

Abstract

The apparatus comprises a main housing having a framework. Angle iron tracks 25 supported on intermediate members 13 of the framework slidably support releasable mounting trays 27 on which components of the apparatus, namely, a water heater 47 and a pump motor unit 55 are mounted for easy replacement of these components. Foaming apparatus (141 Fig. 13) for foaming a water detergent mixture comprises a housing (151) with a main bore (157). An inlet jet (162) delivers the water detergent mixture into a tapered portion (163) of the main bore (157) for mixing with compressed air delivered through air inlets (164). A bead chamber (171) comprises a plurality of beads (172) to further facilitate aerating and foaming of the water detergent mixture.

Description

The present invention relates to washing apparatus, such as for example, for washing cars, trucks, vans or the like, or indeed for washing any other vehicle or device, although needless to say, in general, it will be used for washing cars. It also relates to apparatus for foaming a mixture of water and detergent.

In general there are three broad categories of car washing apparatus. Firstly, there is the type which comprises rotating brush rollers which normally comprise three brush rollers, namely, a pair of upstanding rollers for washing the sides of the car and a horizontal roller for washing the roof, bonnet and the like. In general, these are mounted in an arch type framework, which traverses backwards and forwards over the car with the brushes rotating. In general, a solution of cold water and detergent is directed at the car, as the rotating brush rollers traverse along the car. ^hile these devices remove a considerable amount of the dirt from a car, they do not remove dirt from portions of the car where access is difficult, for example, the portion of the bodywork below the doors, the portions under the front and rear bumpers and the like. Furthermore, such washing apparatus, in general, do not adequately remove any difficult dirt, for example, dirt which may have been allowed accumulate on the car over a long period of time.

The second category of car washing apparatus is a steam cleaner. In general, these devices comprise apparatus for generating steam, and the steam is then delivered through flexible hoses through a nozzle, where it is in turn directed at the car. Usually, the nozzle is hand held by the user. These devices, while they are suitable for removing certain forms of dirt from cars, for example, grease and the like, are not always efficient at removing ordinary muck and dirt.

A third category of car washing apparatus is a hot water washer typically of the type described in British Patent Specification Ko. 2,137,149. In general, such washing apparatus comprise components for heating and delivering a mixture of hot softened water and detergent and also for delivering a mixture of cold water and detergent, or indeed hot or cold water separately. The water and detergent mixtures are delivered through a hose to a nozzle. The nozzle in normal use is hand held by the user. Such apparatus are particularly advantageous in cleaning cars, in that the dirt can firstly be softened with a cold water rinse, and then can be removed using a hot soft water and detergent mixture. Cold or a mixture of hot and cold or hot water on its own can then he used to rinse the car off. It has been found in practice that this third category of car washing apparatus tends to be most efficient.

However, there is a problem with steam washing apparatus and hot water washing apparatus. In general, the components for generating the steam and/or hot water as the case may be and the pump or pumps to pump the water or steam tend to be mounted either in a control house where they may be mounted on the floor or on the wall, or in free standing apparatus. Usually, because of the way the components are connected and mounted together, it is impossible for anyone other than a skilled tradesman to disconnect them and remove them. Thus, should a component fail, the apparatus may be out of service for a number of days. The apparatus of British Patent Mo. 2,137,149 partly addresses this problem, in that it provides for the components to be connected by means of quick release couplings, so that to remove a component, it is not necessary for a plumber to be present. However, this specification, while it partly overcomes the problem, does not altogether overcome the problem of the difficulty of actually having to physically remove a failed component for replacement or repair.

There is therefore a need for car wash apparatus, or indeed, apparatus for washing any vehicle or device which overcomes the problems of devices known heretofore.

There is also a need for foaming apparatus for foaming a mixture of water and detergent for use in car wash apparatust and particularly for use in the third category of car wash apparatus described above.

The present invention is directed towards providing car wash apparatus which overcomes the problems of known apparatus. For convenience, the term car wash apparatus is used from here on to indicate any type of washing apparatus, whether for washing a car, other .10 vehicle or other device as the case may be.

The invention is also directed towards providing foaming apparatus for foaming a mixture of water and detergent.

According to the invention, there is provided foaming 15 apparatus for foaming a mixture of water and detergent, the apparatus comprising a housing, a main bore extending through the housing, the main bore having an upstream end forming an inlet, and a downstream end forming an outlet, the main bore having a tapered portion tapering in a downstream direction, an inlet jet in the upstream inlet to deliver the mixture of water and detergent in a generally axial direction into the main bore, and at least one air inlet being provided in th© tapered portion of th© main bore for delivering air into the main bore for aerating the mixture of water and detergent. Advantageously, the tapered portion of the main bore is adjacent the upstream inlet. Preferably, the inlet jet is co-axial with the main bore.

In another embodiment of the invention, four air inlets ar© provided, the air inlets communicating between the tapered portion of the main bore and an annular chamber extending around the tapered portion of the main bore.

In another embodiment of the invention, portion of th® 10 main bore adjacent the downstream outlet and upstream thereof forms a bead chamber for containing a plurality of beads.

Advantageously, the bead chamber is defined at its upstream and downstream end by a pair of spaced apart screens having a plurality of openings therethrough, Further, the invention provides car wash apparatus which comprises foaming apparatus according to th© invention for foaming a mixture of water and detergent, Additionally, th© invention provides ear wash apparatus comprising a housing, a plurality of components mounted in the housing for delivering hot and/or cold water, and/or detergent to a nozzle, at least on® releasable mounting means for mounting at least one ©f the components in the housing, the releasable mounting means being releasably mounted in the housing, and foaming apparatus according to the invention for delivering a foamed mixture of water and detergent to the nozzle. Preferably, each releasable mounting means is provided by a tray. Advantageously, each tray is provided by a framework constructed from a pair of spaced apart side members of angle shape cross section, each side member being slidable on an edge thereof.

In another embodiment of the invention, some of the components are connected to other components by quick release couplings.

In another embodiment of the invention, some of the components are electrically powered, and are connected to an electrical power source by releasable connectors.

Advantageously, communicating means to instruct a user on the steps for using the apparatus is provided in the housing. Preferably, the coamiunicating means is provided by a visual display unit.

Advantageously, the car wash apparatus comprises a compressor to deliver compressed air to the air inlet of th© foaming apparatus.

Additionally, the invention provides a method for washing a vehicle using the apparatus according to the invention, the method comprising the steps of applying a water and detergent solution to the vehicle through a nozzle of the apparatus, and rinsing the vehicle with water delivered through a nozzle of the apparatus.

Further, the invention provides a method for replacing a component in the car wash apparatus according to the invention, the method comprising the steps of disconnecting the component, removing the component hy removing the releasable mounting means for the component, replacing it with a replacement component on a releasable mounting means by engaging the releasable mounting means of the replacement component in the car wash apparatus, and reconnecting the replacement component, The invention will be more clearly understood from the following description of some preferred embodiments thereof, given by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which? Fig. 1 is a perspective view of car wash apparatus according to the invention, Fig. 2 is a partly cut-away perspective view of the car wash apparatus of Fig. 1, Fig. 3 is another perspective view of the car wash apparatus of Fig. 1, Fig. 4 is a rear view of the car wash apparatus of Fig. 1, Fig. wash is a perspective view of portion of the car apparatus of Fig. 1, Fig. 6 is a perspective view of another portion of the apparatus of Fig. 1, Fig. 7 is a perspective view of a still further 10 portion of the car wash apparatus of Fig. 1.

Fig. 8 is a circuit diagram of the car wash apparatus of Fig. 1, Fig. 9 is a graph illustrating the cycle time of the operation of the car wash apparatus of Fig. 1, Fig. 10 is a graph similar to Fig. 9 illustrating the cycle of a different washing programme to that of Fig. 9, Fig. 11 is a perspective view of car wash apparatus according to another embodiment of the invention, Fig. 12 is a perspective view of foaming apparatus according to the invention for foaming a mixture of water and detergent, Fig. 13 is a cross sectional view of the foaming 5 apparatus of Fig. 12, Fig. 14 is a circuit diagram of a car wash apparatus according to another embodiment of the invention incorporating the foaming apparatus of Figs. 12 and 13, Fig. 15 is a graph illustrating the cycle time of a wash programme of Fig. 14, and Fig. 16 is a graph illustrating the cycle time of a different wash programme of the apparatus of Fig. 14.

Referring to the drawings, and initially to Figs. 1 to 8, there is illustrated car wash apparatus according to the invention, indicated generally by the reference numeral 1. The apparatus 1 comprises a housing 2 in which is housed components necessary for providing hot and cold softened water and detergent for use in washing a car or other vehicle or device. These components v/hich are described in detail below, deliver water, a water detergent mixture and/or a water wax mixture to a hand held sossle 105 for car washing.

The housing 2 comprises a main framework 3, see Fig. . having four upstanding members 5 of box section steel, extending between a top frame 6 and a bottom frame 7, both constructed of box section steel comprising front and rear members 8 and 9 joined by end members 10 and 11 respectively. A pair of intermediate cross members 13 of steel box section extend between the front and rear upstanding members . Intermediate cross members 12 of box section steel extend between the front and rear members 8 and 9 of the top frame 6 to support a superstructure 14 for housing further components, which will be described below.

The superstructure 14 comprises four upstanding members 16 extending from the cross members 12. which support an upper framework 18, all of box section steel, having front and rear members 19 joined by end members 20. Intermediate cross members 21 of box section steel extend between the upstanding members 16. Support members 22 of box section steel extend between the lower cross members 21 for supporting a component described below.

Angle iron members 25 extend between the cross members 13 and act as tracks to slidably support releasable mounting means, in this case mounting trays 27, which will be described below, for releasably and slidably mounting some of the various components. A further angle iron member 26 extends between the outer angle iron members 55 to act as a backstop.

The framework 3 is closed by end and back panels 28 and 29 respectively of sheet metal material and fibre glass respectively secured hy screws or rivets or the like (not shown) to the framework 3. Two doors 30 and 31 both of sheet metal are hinged to the upstanding members 5 of the framework 3 to close the housing 2.

A top panel 33 of fibre glass material is mounted on the top frame 6. An opening 34 in the top panel 33 communicates between the lower portion of the housing 2 and the superstructure 14. A front panel 35 and a rear panel 37 both of fibre glass material are secured to the superstructure 14. A pair of doors 3S and 38 hinged on the upstanding members IS close the superstructure 14. A top member 40 comprising a top panel 41. front and rear panels 42 and side panels 44 is mounted on the upper frame 18. The top front, rear and side panels 41, 42 and 44 respectively are of a translucent plastics material, and lighting (not shown) is provided in the top member 40 to attract attention to the apparatus.

Turning now to the components of the apparatus 1 and referring in particular to Figs. 3 and 8. a water heater in this case provided by an electrically powered heater 47 which heats water substantially instantly is provided in the housing. The heater 47 is mounted on one of the mounting trays 27 formed by a framework 50, which is slidable on the angle iron tracks 25 for easy replacement of the heater 47« The mounting framework 50 comprises a pair of side members 51 of angle iron, joined by end members 52 also of angle iron. The angle iron members 51 and 52 are welded together, so that the edges 53 of the side members 52 slidably bear on the tracks 25. Upstanding members 46 extending from cross members 48 support the heater 47. A top cross member 49 joins the members 46.

A second mounting tray 27 for mounting an integral electric motor and pump unit 55 for pumping the water is also provided by a framework 58. The framework 58 comprises side and end members 61 and 62 of angle iron. The end members 62 are joined by cross members 63 which support the motor pump unit 55. The framework 58 is slidable on the tracks 25. In Fig. 3 the mounting tray 58 is illustrated partly removed.

Tanks 68 of plastics material are provided in the lower portion of the housing 2 beneath the trays 25. Two of the tanks store liquid detergent and one stores wax, all in liquid form. A water treatment unit 69 for softening incoming water to the apparatus extends from a tank 70 in the housing 2 which contains a brine solution for the water treatment unit 89.

Other components which are provided in the housing for delivering the various water and detergent mixes for car washing which are not illustrated in Fig. 3 are illustrated in the circuit diagram of Fig. 8.

These components will now be described with reference to Fig. 8. The circuit of Fig. 8 comprises a main line 73 which connects the components and delivers the appropriate mixture of water and detergent or wax or water on its own to the nozzle unit 105, see Figs. 1 and 2.

A water inlet 71 at the bottom of the housing 2 is provided for connecting to a mains water supply or a water supply from a header storage tank (not shown). The water inlet 71 delivers water to a filter unit 72.

Water is fed from the filter 72 to a booster pump 74 which is mounted in the housing behind the tanks 68. A pressure switch 75 is provided in the main line 73 between the filter unit 72 and the booster pump 74 to monitor th® incoming pressure of the water. Where the incoming pressure is too low, a signal is sent from the pressure sensor 75 to control apparatus which is described below, to bring on the booster pump 74, A quick release snap-on coupling 76 is provided for disconnecting the pump 74 from the filter unit 72. Non-return valves 77 and 78 are provided on each side of the booster pump 74.

The booster pump feeds the water to the water softening unit 69 through a quick release snap-on coupling 79 thus the booster pump can be readily easily disconnected from the water treatment softening unit 69 and from the main line 73. Treated water is then fed from the water softening unit 69 through a quick release snap-on coupling 80 and a flow control sensor 81 to a pair of solenoid operated valves 82 and 83. On opening of the valve 82 and closing the valve 83, water is fed through the water heater 47 for delivery to the motor pump unit 55. When the valve 83 is open and the valve 82 is closed, water bypasses the water heater to the motor pump unit 55. Quick release snap-on couplings 85 and 83 are provided in the main line 73 between the water heater 47 and the motor pump unit 55 to facilitate quick release of both units.

Three injector pumps 87 are provided to draw detergent and wax from the tanks 68. One pump 87 is provided for each tank. The detergent and/or wax is injected by the pumps through corresponding non-return valves 88 into the main line 73 between the water heater 47 and the motor pump unit 55. The injector pumps although not illustrated in Figs. 1 to 7 are mounted on a panel (not shown) suspended from the rear member 8 of the framework 3.

A pair of blow-off valves 89 and 90 are provided in the line after the motor pump unit 55. The valve 89 opens to atmosphere in the event of a build-up of pressure downstream of the pump unit 55, while the valve 90 switches over from feeding through the main line 73 to recirculating the water through the motor pump unit 55 through a line 92. A quick release snap-on coupling 93 is provided on the downstream side of the motor pump unit so that by disconnecting the coupling 93 and 83, the pump motor unit 55 can be readily easily disconnected from the main line 73.

The output from the pump motor unit 55 is then fed to a pair of solenoid operated valves 95 and 96. The valve 95 delivers water or water and detergent directly to a hose reel 98, which is described below, through a pressure sensor 99. The valve 96 directs the flow through a restricter valve 100» In use. the water wax mixture is delivered through the valve 96 and in turn through the restricter valve 100 to restrict flow thereof.

Returning now to Figs. 1 and 2 the hose reel 98 is mounted on the member 22 in the superstructure 14 and stores a hose 101 wound thereon which is connected back to the line 73. The nozzle unit 105 is releasably connected at the free end of the hose 101 for delivering water or water detergent and wax detergent to a vehicle for cleaning. A trigger mechanism 106 on the nozzle unit 105 switches on and off the flow through the nozzle. An opening 107 in the door 30 provides access to a tubular sleeve 104 in the housing 2 for receiving and supporting the nozzle unit 105 when not in use. An opening 108 in the door 38 accommodates the hose being fed from the reel 98.

An electrical control box 109 which contains suitable control apparatus for controlling the operation of the components of the apparatus 1 is pivotally mounted to one of the upstanding members 16 of the superstructure 14. The control box 109 is pivotal from a position within the superstructure 14 through an opening 111 to a position as illustrated in Fig. 3. to provide access to the control box for maintenance. The opening 111 is closed by the door 38. Override switches 112 and indicator lights 113 are provided on the control box 109.

A communication means, in this case provided by a visual display unit 115 is mounted in the front panel 35 of the superstructure 14. The visual display unit comprises a plurality of light emitting diodes, which communicates instructions to a user as he uses the apparatus. Needless to say. it could also he used for other purposes, such as, for example, advertising or the like.

Locks 119 on the doors 30 and 31 and 38 secure the apparatus 1. A slot 120 in the front panel 35 receives a magnetic type card (not shown) to activate the apparatus. A number of different cards will be provided with different programmes to provide different types of washes. It is also envisaged that, in certain cases, the slot 120 or indeed a separate slot may be provided, to receive a credit card to activate the apparatus. In which case, suitable control apparatus would be provided to debit the credit card holders account with the price of the wash.

While not illustrated, cables delivering power to the various components and valves are provided from the control box 109. The cables are connected to the various components by quick release fittings, in this case, plug socket connectors (not shown).

A base formed by a panel of metal plate (not shown) is supported on the front and rear members 8 and 9 and side members 11 of the framework 5 and in turn supports the tanks @8 and 70.

In use, many wash programmes may be selected. The timing cycle for the various components of the apparatus for two different wash cycles are illustrated in the graphs of Figs. 9 and 10. In the programme illustrated in Fig. 9, the wash is a cold water wash, in other words, only cold water is used in the washing and rinsing cycles. The cycle time is 390 seconds. For the first 90 seconds of the cycle, the first injector pump 87 draws detergent from the appropriate tank 68 which is delivered into the line 73 for mixing with the cold softened water being fed to the pump motor unit 55 and in turn to the nozzle 105. For the next 120 seconds of the cycle only cold water is delivered through the pump 55 to the nozzle 105. This would normally be used for washing under wheel arches or the like, while the detergent is allowed to penetrate through the dirt on the car. The next 180 seconds of the cycle comprises a rinse during which the second injector pump 87 is switched on to inject wax from a tank 68 into the line 73 for delivery through the pump motor unit 55 for rinsing off the detergent from the car and leaving a protective layer of wax. The wash programme illustrated in Fig. 10 provides a hot water wash with a cycle time of 570 seconds. The operation of the various components and their cycle times is illustrated in Fig. 10.

To initiate the washing programme after the programs has been selected by inserting the appropriate card in the slot 120. the trigger 106 of the nozzle unit 105 is depressed. This commences the timing cycle.

Where a component fails, such as, for example, the motor pump unit 55, all that is required to replace the failed component is to release the quick release snap-on couplings and the appropriate plug socket connector. The component is then removed by sliding out the appropriate tray 27. A new component on another tray 27 is then fitted and connected. For example, where the motor pump unit 55 fails, the quick release snap-on couplings 85 and 93 are disconnected and the appropriate plug socket connector is also disconnected. The tray 27 supporting the motor pump unit 55 is slid out of the housing and replaced with another tray 27 with a new or reconditioned motor pump unit 55, The necessary connections are then remade.

It will therefore be appreciated that such a change over can he made in a matter of minutes hy a relatively unskilled person. Thus, there is no need for the car wash apparatus to be out of order for any length of time, provided an adequate supply of spare units are carried, or alternatively, a serviceman is within easy reach of each apparatus. Similarly, should the water heater fail, the failed unit may be replaced by a newly serviced heater by merely releasing the quick release couplings 80 and 85, the appropriate plug socket connctor and the mounting tray Referring now to Fig. 11, there is illustrated car wash apparatus 121 according to another embodiment of the invention. In this case, the apparatus 121 is substantially similar to that described, and similar components are identified by the same reference numeral. The main difference between this apparatus 121 and the apparatus 1 is that the water heater, instead of being an electric heater, is provided by a boiler burner unit 122. The boiler burner unit is mounted on a mounting tray 27 slidable on the tracks 25. A flue 124 extends from the boiler 121 through the superstructure 14, and out through the top panel 41. Suitable flashing (not shown) is provided between the flue 124 and the top panel 41, to prevent the ingress of moisture. Fluorescent tubes (not shown) are mounted on the upper framework 18 of the superstructure 14 to illuminate the top member 40.

Operation of this apparatus 120 is similar to the apparatus 1.

Referring now to Figs. 12 and 13 there is illustrated apparatus also according to the invention indicated generally by the reference numeral 141 for foaming the water and detergent mixture. This apparatus 141 is suitable for mounting in either the car wash apparatus 1 or 121 or indeed any other type of car wash apparatus. The foaming apparatus comprises a housing 150 formed of an outer tubular member 151 of steel. A pair of end members 152 and 153 close the tubular member 151. An inner tubular member 155 extends from the end member 152 to an intermediate member 156 in the tubular member 151. The inner tubular member 155 in combination with the outer tubular member 151, the end member 152 and 153 and the intermediate member 156 form a main bore 157 which extends through the housing 151. The main bore 157 has an upstream inlet end 158 and a downstream outlet end 159. A jet housing 160 secured by a nipple 161 in the upstream end member 152 delivers a mixture of water and detergent through an inlet jet 162 in the jet housing 160 into an upstream portion 163 of the main bore 157. Ia this case, the diameter of the inlet jet 162 is 0.2 mm. The upstream portion 163 of the main bore 157 is tapered in a downstream direction. Four air inlets 164 deliver compressed air into the upstream portion 163 for mixing with the jet of water and detergent. The compressed air is received from a compressor 147 described below through an inlet 166 into the main housing 150 and into an annular chamber 167 defined by the outer tubular member 151 and the inner tubular member 155 and the end member 152 and intermediate member 156. The air inlets 164 communicate with the annular chamber 167. The tapered portion 163 of the bore 157 terminates in a mixing chamber 168 formed by the portion of the bore 157 formed by the tubular member 155 in which the compressed air and water detergent mixture are thoroughly mixed for aerating the water detergent mixture as it passes along. A step change in cross sectional area is provided at 169 between the tapered portion 163 and the mixing chamber 168 which further facilitates the formation of turbulence to further facilitate mixing and aerating.

At the end of the mixing chamber 168, the main bore increases in diameter through the intermediate member 156. where it terminates in a chamber 171 comprising a plurality of loosely stored beads 172 of approximately 3 mm diameter. The chamber is defined at each end by a pair of screens 174 and 175 of plastics material with a plurality of holes 176 of 1 mm diameter. The chamber 171 is approximately three-quarters filled with the beads 172. The beads, it has been found, cause considerable turbulence of the compressed air, water and detergent mixture, thereby further aerating the mixture to form foam, which is then delivered through the screen 175 to the downstream outlet end of the bore 157 for connection into a pipe for subsequent connection into a nozzle unit of the car wash apparatus.

Fig. 14 illustrates a circuit diagram of how the foaming apparatus 141 is connected into the car wash apparatus of either Figs. 1 to 8 or Fig. 11. In practice, when the foaming apparatus 141 is connected into either the car wash apparatus 1 or 121, it is mounted on the plate (not shown) depending from the rear member 8 of the top frame 6. The foaming apparatus 141 is connected into the main line 73 at 142 and 143. Flow through the foaming apparatus 141 is controlled by a solenoid operated valve 145. The water detergent mixture in its foamed form is fed from the apparatus 141 into the line 73 at 143. The air compressor 147 which is mounted behind the tanks 68 on the base of the housing 2 delivers compressed air through a pressure regulator 148 and a non-return valve 149 to the foaming apparatus 141.

Operation of the car wash apparatus 140 is similar to that of the apparatus 1, with the exception that the solenoid valve 145 is operated to deliver the water detergent mixture through the foaming apparatus 141.

A timing diagram of two washing programmes is illustrated in Figs. 15 and 16.

It has been found that there is a relationship between the diameters of the inlet jet 162 and the outlet jet (not shown) in the nozzle unit 105. It is believed that optimum results are achieved when the cross sectional area of the outlet jet (not shown) in the nozzle unit 105 is six times the cross sectional area of the inlet jet 162. While optimum results are achieved when the relationships between the jets is as quoted above, it has been found that adequate results can be achieved when the cross sectional area of the outlet jet in the nozzle 105 is at least 2.5 times the cross sectional area of the inlet jet 162. It has also been found that good results are achieved with an inlet jet 162 of 0.2 mm in diameter. Although, it is believed that adequate results could be achieved with an inlet jet diameter of from 0.05 mm to 0.3 mm. In this case, the widest diameter of the tapered portion 163 of the bore, namely the diameter a, is 17 mm.

It will be appreciated that while a particular construction of housing and framework have been described, any other suitable construction could he used without departing from the scope of the invention. Similarly, other suitable releasable mounting means besides angle iron frameworks could be used. It is also, of course, not necessary that the mounting trays should be slidable, although needless to say, it is essential that they should be releasable from the housing, and preferably, should be readily easily releasable. It will also, of course, be appreciated that while the apparatus has been described as having a visual display unit for communication with the user, this is not necessary, if desired communication means could be dispensed with altogether, although it is envisaged in certain cases that other suitable communication means could be provided, for example, by a voice synthesiser or the like. It will, of course, be appreciated that while a slot has been provided to receive a card for selecting a programme, any other suitable means for selecting a programme could be used, for example, a series of buttons or the like, a mechanical dial switch could also be used for selecting programmes.

It will also, of course, be appreciated that the control box 109 need not be pivotally mounted.

Further, it is envisaged in certain cases, that instead of mounting the apparatus in a closed housing, it could be provided by an open framework, in which case it is envisaged that it will be mounted indoors. While the apparatus has been described as comprising an effectively sealed unit against weather, this is not necessary.

While two particular washing cycles have been described any other desired washing cycles could be used. Additionally, it will be appreciated while the components have been described as being connected together by means of quick release couplings, any other suitable couplings could be used. Further, it will be appreciated that quick release couplings incorporating shut-off valves may, if desired, be provided. Indeed, in certain cases, it is envisaged that independent shut-off valves may be provided on one or both sides of each quick release coupling for shutting off supply to the component or quick release coupling to facilitate removal or replacement of the component. It is also envisaged in certain cases that instead of connecting the detergent and wax line into the main line, it could be connected directly into the pump. It is also envisaged that in certain cases, the injector pumps may be dispensed with, without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, the detergent and/or wax could be drawn into the main line by means of venturi arrangements or the like. Needless to say, suitable valving arrangements, in such cases, would he provided.

Furthermore, it will be appreciated while a particular schematic arrangement of the components has been illustrated, any other suitable arrangement could be used, In fact, in certain cases, it is envisaged the water heater if desired may be mounted downstream of the motor/pump unit. Further, in certain cases the water treatment unit may be mounted downstream of the high pressure pump or dispensed with altogether. It will also, of course be appreciated that the hose reel could be mounted in any desired location, besides in the superstructure, indeed in many cases, it is envisaged it may be mounted exteriorly of the housing, and in certain cases it is envisaged that a hose reel may be dispensed with. Vihile the nozzle has been described as being releasable, while this has the advantage that at night it may be removed altogether, thus permitting the hose to be wound totally within the superstructure, and the nozzle may be stored either within the housing, or in any safe location, this is not necessary.

It will also of course he appreciated that while an electrical heater and an oil fired burner unit have been described, any other suitable water heating arrangement could he used without departing from the scope of the invention.

Additionally, it is envisaged that the apparatus may comprise a micro-processor with a capability for hooking the apparatus into a telephone line. This would thus permit the apparatus to be remotely monitored by dialling an appropriate number to gain access to the apparatus. For example, it is envisaged that at the end of each day, one could remotely connect into the micro-processor in the apparatus by a telephone line to monitor the performance of the various components and ensure that they are all serviceable. Faulty components could be immediately identified and a serviceman could be sent out to replace such components. Further, it is envisaged that the number of washes carried out during any predetermined period, for example, during each day, each week or each month as the case may be, may be logged and recorded in the micro-processor. Also, as well as the number of washes, the types of washes, their cost, duration and the like could be logged.

This information could then also be downloaded through a telephone line to a master unit. This, it will be appreciated will readily facilitate billing and the like. Furthermore, the apparatus may be reprogrammed from a remote location.

Furthermore, it is envisaged that while particular materials have been used in the construction of the apparatus, for example a metal framework with fibre glass casings, any other suitable materials could be used. In fact, in certain cases, it is envisaged that the entire apparatus may be made from metal or it could be of plastics or indeed any other suitable mix of materials. Indeed, in certain cases, it is envisaged that other materials such as wood or the like may be used.

Needless to say, while a particular construction of apparatus has been described, any other suitable constructions could be provided, without departing from the scop® of the invention. For examplee it is envisaged that the various control panels may be mounted in different positions, and needless to say, other suitable mounting arrangements for the control panels could be used. Similarly, doors, hatches or th® like could be provided, where desired.

Further, it will be appreciated that the foaming apparatus described and illustrated could be used in other uses besides car washing apparatus.

It is envisaged that the foaming apparatus may be of other shape and construction. Indeed, it is envisaged in certain cases that the length of the mixing chamber may be considerably shortened. Further, in certain cases, it is envisaged that the beads and the chamber containing the beads may be dispensed with. Alternatively, other suitable turbulence generating means may be provided besides beads.

While four air inlets have been provided into th© tapered portion of the main bore, this is not necessary, on© single air inlet could be provided. Needless to say, the air inlets need not be provided transversely of the axis of the bore. Further, the inlet jet need not be provided co-axial ox the bore.

While specific materials have been described in the housing, any other suitable materials could be used. For example, although the base (not shown) has been described as being of metal plate, it could be of any other suitable material, such as plastic material or the like.

Claims

1. Foaming apparatus for foaming a mixture of water and detergent, the apparatus comprising a housing, a main bore extending through the housing, the main bore 5 having an upstream end forming an inlet, and a downstream end forming an outlet, the main bore having a tapered portion tapering in a downstream direction, an inlet jet in the upstream inlet to deliver the mixture of water and detergent in a generally axial 10 direction into the main bore, and at least one air inlet being provided in the tapered portion of th® main bore for delivering air into the main bore for aerating the mixture of water and detergent.

2. Foaming apparatus as claimed in Claim 1 in which 15 the tapered portion of the main bore is adjacent the upstream inlet,

3. ® Foaming apparatus as claimed in Claim 1 or 2 in which the inlet jet is co-axial with the main bore.

4. Foaming apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim 20 in which four air inlets ar® provided, the air inlets communicating between th© tapered portion of the main bore and an annular chamber extending around the tapered portion of the main bore® 5® Foaming apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim in which ©ach air inlet extends substantially transversely of the axis of the main bore. 6. Foaming apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the main bore extends from the upstream portion in a downstream direction to form an elongated mixing chamber. 7. Foaming apparatus as claimed in Claim 6 in which the cross-sectional area of the portion of the bore forming the mixing chamber is substantially constant and greater than the smallest cross sectional area of the tapered portion of the main bore. 8. Foaming apparatus as claimed in Claim 7 in which a step change in the cross sectional area is provided between the tapered portion of the main bore and the mixing chamber. 9. Foaming apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim in which portion of th© main bore adjacent the downstream outlet and upstream thereof forms a bead chamber for containing a plurality of beads. 10- Foaming apparatus as claimed in Claim 9 in which the bead chamber is defined at its upstream and downstream end by a pair of spaced apart screens having a plurality of openings therethrough. 11. Foaming apparatus as claimed in Claim 9 or 10 in which the bead chamber comprises beads to approximately three-quarters of its volume. 12. Foaming apparatus as claimed in any preceding 5 claim in which an outlet jet is provided from the apparatus, the cross sectional area of the outlet jet being at least 2.5 times th® cross sectional area of the inlet jet. 13. Foaming apparatus as claimed in Claim 12 in which 10 the outlet jet is remotely mounted of the apparatus. 14. Foaming apparatus as claimed in Claim 13 in which th® outlet jet is connected to the apparatus by a flexible hose. 15. Foaming apparatus as claimed in any preceding 15 claim in which th® diameter of the inlet jet is in the range of 0.05 mm to 0.3 mm. IS. Foaming apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim in which a compressor is provided to deliver compressed air to the air inlet. 20 17. Foaming apparatus for foaming a mixture of water and detergent substantially as described herein with reference to and as illustrated in Figs. 12 and 13 of the accompanying drawings. 18. Car x^ash apparatus comprising foaming apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim. 5 19. Car wash apparatus comprising a housing, a plurality of components mounted in the housing for delivering hot and/or cold water, and/or detergent to a nozzle, at least one releasable mounting means for mounting at least one of the components in the housing, 10 the releasable mounting means being releasably mounted in the housing, and foaming apparatus as claimed in any of Claims 1 to 17 for delivering a foamed mixture of water and detergent to the nozzle. 20. Car wash apparatus as claimed in Claim 19 in which 15 each releasable mounting means is provided by a tray. 21. Car wash apparatus as claimed in Claim 20 in which each tray is provided by a framework constructed from a pair of spaced apart side members of angle shape cross section, each side member being slidable on an edge 20 thereof. 22. Car wash apparatus as claimed, in any of Claims 19 to 21 in which a pair of spaced apart tracks ar© provided in the housing to slidably engage each releasable mounting means. 23. Car wash apparatus as claimed in Claim 22 in which each track is constructed of angle iron. 24. Car wash apparatus as claimed in any of Claims 19 5 to 23 in which one of the components is a pump to pump hot and/or cold water and a motor to drive the pump is provided, the pump and motor being mounted on a releasable mounting means. 25. Car wash apparatus as claimed in Claim 24 in which 10 the pump and motor are provided as an integral unit. 2S. Car wash apparatus as claimed in any of Claims 19 to 25 in which one of the components is a heater for heating water, the heater being mounted on a releasable mounting means. 15 27. Car wash apparatus as claimed in any of Claims 19 to 2S in which some of the components are connected to other components by quick release couplings. 28. Car wash apparatus claimed in any of Claims 19 to 27 in which some of the components are electrically 20 powered, and are connected to an electrical power source by releasable connectors. 3β 29. Car wash apparatus as claimed in any of Claims 19 to 28 in which electronic control circuitry for controlling the operation of the components is provided, the circuitry being mounted in a control box 5 which is movably mounted in the housing. 30. Car wash apparatus as claimed in Claim 29 in which the control box is pivotally mounted in the housing and is pivotal from a position within the housing to a position exterior of the housing. 10 31. Car wash apparatus as claimed in Claim 30 in which an opening is provided in the housing adjacent the control box, the control box being pivotal through the opening, a door being provided to close the opening. 32. Car wash apparatus as claimed in any of Claims 19 15 to 31 in which the apparatus comprises the nozzle, the nozzle being connected to the apparatus by a flexible hose, the flexible hose being wound on a reel mounted within the housing. 33. Car wash apparatus as claimed in Claim 32 in which 20 the foaming apparatus is mounted upstream of the nozzle and the outlet jet is mounted in the nozzle. 34. Car wash apparatus as claimed in Claim 32 or 33 in which the apparatus for foaming a mixture of water and detergent is mounted upstream of the reel. 35. Car wash apparatus as claimed in any of Claims 19 to 34 in which the apparatus for foaming a mixture of water and detergent is mounted in the housing of the 5 car wash apparatus. 36» Car wash apparatus as claimed in any of Claims 19 to 35 in which communicating means to instruct a user on the steps for using the apparatus is provided in the housing. 10 37. Car wash apparatus as claimed in Claim 36 in which the communicating means is provided by a visual display unit. 38» Car wash apparatus the communicating means 15 synthesiser. as claimed in Claim 37 in which is provided by a voice 39. Car wash apparatus substantially as described herein with reference to and as illustrated in Figs. 1 to 8 of the accompanying drawings. 40. Car wash apparatus substantially as described 20 herein with reference to and as illustrated in Fig. 11 of the accompanying drawings. 41,. A method for washing a vehicle using the car wash apparatus of any of Claims 19 to 40, the method comprising the steps of applying a water and detergent solution to the vehicle through the nozzle of the apparatus, and rinsing the vehicle with water delivered through the nozzle of the apparatus. 42. A method for washing a vehicle as claimed in Claim 41 in which the method further includes the step of rinsing the vehicle with a mixture of water and wax delivered through the nozzle of the apparatus. 43. A method for washing a vehicle using the apparatus of any of Claims 19 to 40, the method being substantially as described herein with reference to and as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. 44. A method for replacing a component in the car wash apparatus of any of Claims 19 to 40, th® method compx’Ising the steps of disconnecting the component, removing the component by removing the releasable mounting means for the component, replacing it with a replacement component on a releasable mounting means by engaging the releasable mounting means of the replacement component in the car wash apparatus, and reconnecting the replacement component. 45. A method as claimed in Claim 44 in which the method also includes the step of disconnecting quick release couplings which connect the component to be replaced, and reconnecting the replacement component with similar quick release couplings.

5. 4S. A method for replacing a component in the car wash apparatus of any of Claims 19 to 40, the method being substantially as described herein with reference to and as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Dated this 24th day of February 1988 F.F. GORMAN & CO.