MXPA01004617A - Apparatus for cleaning or de-icing a vehicle window - Google Patents
Apparatus for cleaning or de-icing a vehicle windowInfo
- Publication number
- MXPA01004617A MXPA01004617A MXPA/A/2001/004617A MXPA01004617A MXPA01004617A MX PA01004617 A MXPA01004617 A MX PA01004617A MX PA01004617 A MXPA01004617 A MX PA01004617A MX PA01004617 A MXPA01004617 A MX PA01004617A
- Authority
- MX
- Mexico
- Prior art keywords
- fluid
- container
- heating element
- vehicle
- solenoid
- Prior art date
Links
- 238000004140 cleaning Methods 0.000 title claims abstract description 95
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 405
- 238000010438 heat treatment Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 136
- 238000005406 washing Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 38
- 239000007921 spray Substances 0.000 claims description 64
- 238000004891 communication Methods 0.000 claims description 38
- 238000010257 thawing Methods 0.000 claims description 25
- 238000005086 pumping Methods 0.000 claims description 22
- 239000000654 additive Substances 0.000 claims description 17
- 230000000996 additive Effects 0.000 claims description 17
- 238000005520 cutting process Methods 0.000 claims description 15
- 238000007710 freezing Methods 0.000 claims description 12
- 239000012528 membrane Substances 0.000 claims description 8
- 238000005507 spraying Methods 0.000 claims description 8
- 239000007787 solid Substances 0.000 claims description 7
- 238000007599 discharging Methods 0.000 claims description 6
- 239000000789 fastener Substances 0.000 claims description 6
- 230000002441 reversible Effects 0.000 claims description 6
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims description 5
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 claims description 4
- 230000036961 partial Effects 0.000 claims description 3
- 230000004913 activation Effects 0.000 claims 1
- 238000011010 flushing procedure Methods 0.000 description 9
- 238000010586 diagram Methods 0.000 description 6
- 239000002585 base Substances 0.000 description 5
- 230000001276 controlling effect Effects 0.000 description 4
- 230000005611 electricity Effects 0.000 description 4
- 238000002844 melting Methods 0.000 description 4
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 4
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 4
- 239000012190 activator Substances 0.000 description 3
- 238000005485 electric heating Methods 0.000 description 3
- 238000001704 evaporation Methods 0.000 description 3
- 239000000969 carrier Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000000354 decomposition reaction Methods 0.000 description 2
- 150000002500 ions Chemical class 0.000 description 2
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000000414 obstructive Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000003825 pressing Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000000243 solution Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000003892 spreading Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000003466 welding Methods 0.000 description 2
- YACLQRRMGMJLJV-UHFFFAOYSA-N Chloroprene Chemical compound ClC(=C)C=C YACLQRRMGMJLJV-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 210000004544 DC2 Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 210000002304 ESC Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 230000005355 Hall effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 241001527806 Iti Species 0.000 description 1
- 241001274961 Rubus repens Species 0.000 description 1
- 239000002253 acid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000003213 activating Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000004026 adhesive bonding Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000002528 anti-freeze Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000003637 basic solution Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000005540 biological transmission Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000009835 boiling Methods 0.000 description 1
- -1 by filtration Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000015556 catabolic process Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000006243 chemical reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000002826 coolant Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000001816 cooling Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000001934 delay Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000003111 delayed Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000004090 dissolution Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000005669 field effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000001914 filtration Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000002452 interceptive Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000002427 irreversible Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000002530 ischemic preconditioning Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000000203 mixture Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000001264 neutralization Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000003287 optical Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000001105 regulatory Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000717 retained Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000005201 scrubbing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000000565 sealant Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229910001220 stainless steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000010935 stainless steel Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000003860 storage Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000002699 waste material Substances 0.000 description 1
Abstract
Apparatus (20) for cleaning or de-icing a vehicle window (24) including a reservoir (30) for containing therein a washing fluid, a vessel having an inlet through which the washing fluid is received from the reservoir and an outlet (36) through which the fluid is discharged for cleaning a vehicle window, and a first heating element (50) disposed in the vessel for heating the fluid in the vessel, characterized by an auxiliary heating element (306) being disposed in the vessel for heating the fluid in the vessel, wherein the auxiliary heating element is disposed at a bottom portion of the vessel and is operative to heat a quantity of fluid which is not necessarily sufficient to cover the first heating element.
Description
- I? '-
APPARATUS TO IMPLY OR DESERT A WINDOW OF
VEH ÍCULO
FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates generally to an apparatus for cleaning or thawing a vehicle window.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Various methods and devices are known in the art to provide a spray of hot water or other fluid for washing in the windows of a vehicle. The heated fluid is particularly advantageous for removing ice from the windshield of the vehicle in cold climates. This ice removal function requires a vehicle driver to wait while the fluid heats up, before the windshield can be defrosted. Methods and devices known in the art are impractical for this purpose, however, since they typically use heat or electricity generated by the engine of the vehicle itself to heat the fluid, requiring the driver to wait an unacceptable long time for the fluid to reach a adequate temperature. Using the vehicle's battery to heat the fluid, regardless of the vehicle's engine, is also problematic due to the large current pull required to heat a sufficient amount of fluid to effectively defrost the windshield. The battery typically can not provide enough current to heat the entire reservoir of the washing fluid vehicle in a reasonable amount of time. Although methods and devices have been suggested for heating the fluid in line, as it is sprayed on the windshield, the battery also can not provide enough current to heat a spray of sufficient volume to a temperature high enough to achieve effective defrosting. The Patent of E. U. No. 5,509,606 discloses a hot washing device for an automobile windshield, which includes a container in which a washing liquid is pumped from a tank and in which the fluid is heated by an electric heating element before being sprayed on the windshield. The container is insulated and includes a thermostat which is used to ensure that the temperature of the fluid does not exceed a predetermined maximum. The container is kept full, with heat applied as needed to bring the cold fluid pumped into the container to the desired temperature. U.S. Patent No. 5,118,040 discloses an electrical apparatus for washing windows of a vehicle. An insulated container is placed between a cold wash fluid reservoir and dew drops for the vehicle window, in a position lower than the reservoir to keep it full of fluid. When the ignition of the vehicle is ignited, an electric heater heats the fluid in the container and remains active while the vehicle is in use. There is no provision, however, for starting and rapid heating to thaw the vehicle window. U.S. Patent No. 4,090,668 discloses a windshield washer and thaw system that includes a reservoir having
• a container sealed in it. A pump transfers flushing fluid from the reservoir to the container and from the container to a plurality of nozzles. The heated engine coolant is passed through a conduit in the container. The electrical resistance heats the fluid in the container as long as the temperature falls below a certain minimum. Solenoid valves direct the spray
from the tank to the front or rear window of the vehicle,
• but there is no suggestion to use the valves for any other fluid control purpose. U.S. Patent No. 5,012,977 discloses a vehicle window washer in which wash fluid is heated in a
tank, and in which a pump for spraying the fluid in the window of the vehicle has a variable outlet pressure. The temperature of the fluid in the tank is detected, and the outlet pressure of the pump is consequently varied inversely with the temperature of the washing fluid, to maintain a reservoir of
more consistent fluid in the window, as the viscosity of the fluid changes with temperature. U.S. Patent No. 5,354, 965 discloses a system for electrically heating a volume of windshield cleaning fluid in a motor vehicle. A container is filled with a
volume of fluid to be heated, using thermistors or other
electric heating elements A control circuit regulates the length of time the fluid is heated, according to a prevailing temperature environment, before the fluid is sprayed onto the windshield. The circuit also prevents the fluid heating operation when the vehicle engine is not running. PCT Application PCT / US98 / 13023, assigned to the present assignee, discloses a de-icing apparatus in which a container for heating a washing fluid is provided before the fluid is discharged to a vehicle window. Before the fluid is introduced into the container, the container is pre-heated, preferably by passing an electric current through a heating element in the container for about one minute or less. When the pre-heating is completed, the fluid is allowed to enter the container and is rapidly heated by contact with it, leading to an increase in pressure in the container due to the evaporation of a portion of the fluid. The fluid is then discharged at a desired temperature and pressure to clean and / or thaw the window. Although the vessel pre-heating pulls only a moderate electrical input from the vehicle's battery, it allows a sufficient amount of hot fluid to be generated to defrost the window before starting the vehicle more quickly than in any known practical window cleaning system. in the
T *
technique . In addition, the pressure generated by the evaporation of the fluid helps to clean ice or other obstacles that may have formed in the pipe or nozzles through which the spray is sprayed.
• fluid on the window. It is also noted that spraying the hot fluid on the outer surface of the window effectively defuses its interior surface as well.
B REVE DESCR NECTI ON OF THE I NVENC ION It is an object of the present invention to provide improvements
to the devices and methods to clean or thaw a window of
• vehicle described in PCT Application PCT / US98 / 13023. In preferred embodiments of the present invention, a container for heating a wash fluid is provided before the fluid is discharged to a window of a vehicle. Before the fluid is introduced into the container, the container is pre-heated, preferably by passing an electric current through a heating element in the container for about one minute, for example. When the pre-heating is completed, the fluid is allowed to enter the container and is
rapidly warmed by contact with it, leading to an increase in pressure in the vessel due to the evaporation of a portion of the fluid. The fluid is then discharged at a desired temperature and pressure to clean and / or thaw the window. 25 Although the container pre-heating pulls only one
Moderate electrical input from the vehicle's battery allows a sufficient amount of hot fluid to be generated to thaw the window before starting the vehicle faster than
• any practical window cleaning system known in the art. In some preferred embodiments of the present invention, after an initial amount of fluid has been heated and discharged from the container, an additional amount is introduced into the container and immediately heated. Once the amount
additional has reached a desired temperature, it is discharged
• also, preferably after a delay of several seconds. This process continues during repeated heating / discharging cycles, until the window has been completely cleaned and thawed. Preferably, the cycles of
The heating / discharge are timed in a sequence whose parameters, such as discharge duration and intervals between discharges, are varied according to the ambient temperatures of the vehicle and the unheated fluid. • It will be understood that the term "vehicle" as used in the
The context of the present patent application and in the claims can refer to any type of wheeled vehicle having windows, such as a car or truck, as well as a boat or airplane. In addition, the term "window", although typically referring to a windshield of a vehicle, is
can refer to any transparent surface, including
* 1 * SiíSt.
side and rear windows and exterior mirrors, as well as headlight covers and the like. In addition, whenever the term "clean" is used in the present application and in the claims with reference to an action involving spraying hot fluid in a window, it will be understood that the term also includes thawing. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the principles of the present invention can be adapted to clean and deheat other surfaces, including windows and internal mirrors, for example, as well as to supply fluid for
other purposes. For example, the system of the present invention provides an alternate route for the scrubbing fluid to be sprayed directly onto the windshield for routine cleaning thereof. There is thus provided, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, an apparatus for cleaning or thawing a
vehicle window, which includes a reservoir for containing effluent fluid itself, a container having an inlet through which the flushing fluid is received from the reservoir and an outlet through which the flushing fluid is discharged. fluid to clean a vehicle window, and a first heating element
arranged in the container for heating the fluid in the container, characterized by an auxiliary heating element which is arranged in the container for heating the fluid in the container, wherein the auxiliary heating element is arranged in a portion of the bottom of the container and it is operative to heat a
amount of fluid that is not necessarily enough to cover
m x 8 the first heating element According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention there is also provided a plurality of detectors that feed data concerning at least one at a temperature
and a fluid level of fluid in the container to a controller, the
- controller controlling the energization of the first heating element and the auxiliary heating element in response to the data. It is also provided according to a modality
Preferred of the present invention is an apparatus for cleaning or
• thawing a vehicle window, including a tank for holding a washing fluid therein, a container having an inlet through which the washing fluid is received from the tank and an outlet through which the washing fluid is received. discharge the fluid,
a spray head in fluid communication with the outlet through which the fluid is sprayed onto a vehicle window, and a heating element disposed in the container for heating the fluid in the container, characterized by a liquid detector.
• temperature mounted in proximity to the spray head, the
The temperature detector is in communication with a controller that controls the heating of the heating element in response to a temperature detected by the temperature sensor. It is also provided according to a modality
Preferred of the present invention is an apparatus for cleaning or de-icing a vehicle window, including a reservoir for containing a washing fluid therein, a container having an inlet through which the washing fluid is received from
• the reservoir and an outlet through which the fluid is discharged, a spraying head in fluid communication with the outlet through which the fluid is sprayed onto a vehicle window, and a heating element arranged in the container for heating the fluid in the container, characterized by a wind speed detector in communication with a controller, wherein
the controller correlates a wind speed detected by the
• wind speed detector at a fluid temperature sprayed from the spray head, and controls the heating of the heating element in response to the wind speed detected by the wind speed detector. According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention there is also provided a vehicle speed detector, wherein the controller also correlates a vehicle speed detected by the vehicle speed detector.
• vehicle with a temperature of the fluid sprayed from the head of
, and controls the heating of the heating element in response to the speed of the vehicle detected by the vehicle speed detector. Thus, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, there is provided an apparatus for cleaning or thawing a
vehicle window, which includes a tank to contain in the
* A washing fluid itself, a container having an inlet through which the washing fluid is received from the tank and an outlet through which the fluid is discharged to clean a vehicle window, and a first heating element
arranged in the container to heat the fluid in the container,
- characterized by a pumping system in fluid communication with the reservoir and the container which selectively pumps fluid from the reservoir to the container and drains the fluid from the container back to the reservoir. According to a preferred embodiment of the present
• invention the pumping system includes at least one solenoid in fluid communication with the reservoir and the container and interchangeable from a first position to a second position, wherein in the first position the at least one solenoid allows
the flow from the reservoir to the container and substantially prevents draining of container fluid back to the reservoir, and wherein in the second position the at least one solenoid allows the draining of the fluid from the container back to the reservoir and avoids
• Substantially the flow from the reservoir to the container. According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention the pumping system includes a reversible pump which in a first operative orientation pumps the fluid from the reservoir into the container and in a second operative orientation pumps the fluid from the container back to the reservoir. From
The reversible pump preferably includes a gear pump.
Also provided in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention is an apparatus for cleaning or de-icing a vehicle window, including a reservoir for containing a washing fluid therein, a container having
an inlet through which the wash fluid is received from the tank and an outlet through which the fluid is discharged, a spray head in fluid communication with the outlet through which the fluid is sprayed on a vehicle window, a windshield wiper to clean the window, and characterized
because the spray head includes a spray head of
• multiple outputs including a plurality of spray outlets. According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention there is provided a controller that controls a spray pattern of the plurality of outputs. According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention there is provided a detector for detecting an angular position of the windshield wiper, wherein the controller controls the spray pattern of the plurality of outputs according to
• with the angular position of the windshield wiper. It is provided
preferably an engine that drives the windshield wiper. According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention a cam is mounted on the windshield wiper, the cam can selectively open the outlets to allow fluid flow therethrough. In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present
invention provides a motor that drives the windshield wiper and a detector to detect a torque of the motor, wherein the controller controls the spray pattern of the motor.
• plurality of outputs according to the torque of the motor. According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention the windshield wiper cleans the window between two travel limits, and the windshield wiper can be placed in a summer parking mode and a winter parking mode, wherein the summer parking mode, the
The cleaner is generally at rest at one of the limits of
• travel, and where in the winter parking mode, the cleaner is between the travel limits. Also provided in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention is an apparatus for cleaning or
defrosting a vehicle window, including a reservoir for containing a flushing fluid therein, a container having an inlet through which the flushing fluid is received from the reservoir and an outlet through which the flushing fluid is received. discharge the fluid,
• a spray head in fluid communication with the output to
through which the fluid is sprayed onto a vehicle window, a windshield wiper to clean the window, and characterized in that the windshield wiper has a longitudinal bore formed therethrough for flow of the fluid therethrough, where the perforation communicates fluidly with a
plurality of outlet holes formed in the cleaner for
applying the fluid in the window According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention the fluid enters the perforation at one end of the
• Cleaner and one opposite end of the cleaner is sealed 5 substantially. Also provided in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention is an apparatus for cleaning or thawing a vehicle window, including a container for holding a washing fluid therein, a container having
an entry through which the washing fluid is received from
• the tank and an outlet through which the fluid is discharged onto a vehicle window and characterized in that it also includes a cartridge that supplies an additive to the fluid before discharging the fluid. In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention the cartridge includes a solid block of the additive. In addition, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the cartridge is accommodated in an opening fastener which is sealed by a stopper, the stopper including a stopper.
threaded neck and a neck portion formed with a plurality of holes therethrough, the holes that are in fluid communication with a bore which is in turn in fluid communication with the apertured holder, and wherein the Threaded collar can be screwed to a container through the
which fluid can flow into the container, where the additive is mixed
with the fluid as the fluid flows through the container Also provided in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention is an apparatus for cleaning or
• defrosting a vehicle window, which includes a reservoir for containing a flushing fluid therein, a container having an inlet through which the flushing fluid is received from the reservoir and an outlet through which the fluid is discharged to clean a vehicle window, and characterized in that it also includes a fluid authorization system to verify the
use of an authorized fluid. • According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention the fluid authorization system includes a membrane constructed of a material that disintegrates if it is not in the presence of a fluid authorized for use. Also provided according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention is an apparatus for cleaning or thawing a vehicle window, including a reservoir for containing a washing fluid therein, a container having
• an entrance through which the washing fluid is received from
the reservoir and an outlet through which the fluid is discharged to clean a vehicle window, and characterized in that it also includes at least one tube in fluid communication with the fluid and a solenoid that selectively seals and seals the at least one tube to prevent the passage of fluid through it and
selectively allows the flow of fluid therethrough.
According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention there is also provided an apparatus for preventing damage due to freezing of the fluid. • In addition according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention the apparatus for preventing damage includes a platform arranged to slide in the container the platform that is operative to slide due to a force of the fluid pressing against it during freezing of the fluid . 10 Still further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the
• present invention the apparatus for preventing damage includes a cover attached to the container and which is operable to move away from the container due to a force of the fluid pressing against it during the freezing of the fluid. In addition, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, an apparatus for cutting the electrical supply to the heating element is provided. According to a preferred embodiment of the present
• invention the apparatus for cutting off the electrical supply includes a fuse electrically connected to the heating element. Further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention the fuse is internal to the container and is in contact with the washing fluid in the container. Still further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention the fuse includes a body to which it is welded
a lid portion in a welding connection, the lid portion inclined by a tilting device, the fuse that is electrically connected to the heating element through the welded connection, wherein upon reaching a predetermined temperature, the The welded connection is weakened due to the at least partial melting of the same, and the tilting device pushes the lid portion out of the body, whereby a break in the electrical supply to the heating element is caused. Additionally according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention the fuse is mounted on a base which is sealed with respect to the container by means of a final cover which presses the base against an O-ring mounted on the container. According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention the apparatus for cutting the power supply includes a first FET in electrical communication with the controller, a fuse external to the container and operatively connected to the first FET, a second FET operatively connected to the fuse, the second FET in communication with at least one of the temperature detector, a thermostat mounted on the vessel, and logic circuits in electrical communication with the second FET. According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention if no command signal is sent to the first FET from the controller, the first FET is opened and the heating element is not energized. If a command signal is sent to the first FET from the controller, the first FET is closed and the heating element is energized. If no command signal is sent to the first FET from the controller, but there is a voltage drop
• close to zero through the first FET, then the second FET is ordered to close, so a current is sent through the fuse that breaks the fuse and disconnects the power supply to the heating element. If a command signal is sent to the first FET from the controller, but there is a voltage drop generally greater than zero through the first FET, then the
apparatus for cleaning or thawing a vehicle window is
• ordered to turn off. Further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention a solenoid is in direct electrical communication with a printed circuit board (PCB) circuit
control mounted on the container, the solenoid which determines whether the fluid flows directly to the spray head or flows to the spray head via the container. The solenoid is preferably attached to the PCB. According to a preferred embodiment of the present
invention the PCB can be selectively connected to a vehicle computer, wherein the operation of the solenoid and the apparatus for cleaning or thawing a vehicle window is controllable by at least one of the PC B and the vehicle computer 25
* ",.» 18 BRIEF D ESC R IPC ION OF D I B UJ OS The present invention will be understood more fully from the following detailed description of the modalities
• preferred of the same, taken in conjunction with the drawings in the
Figure 1 is a pictorial, schematic illustration showing an apparatus for cleaning a car windshield with hot wash fluid, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; 10 Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing details
• of the cleaning apparatus of the Figural, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 is a pictorial illustration of a filling and draining pumping system useful in the cleaning apparatus and
defrosted window of Figure 2, constructed and operative in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention; Figure 4 is a simplified pictorial illustration of a filling and draining pumping system useful in the apparatus of
• Thawed and cleaned window of Figure 2, built and
Operative according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention; Figure 5 is a timing diagram illustrating the operation of the apparatus of Figure 1, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; 25 Figure 6 is a simplified pictorial illustration of a
multiple outlet spray head constructed and operative in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention; Figure 7 is a simplified pictorial illustration of a multi-outlet spray head constructed and operative in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present invention; Figures 8 and 9 are simplified pictorial illustrations of a windshield wiper drive system constructed and operative in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, wherein Figure 8 illustrates a summer parking mode 10 and Figure 9 illustrates a parking mode of
• winter; Figure 10 is a simplified block diagram of the windshield wiper drive system of Figures 8 and 9; Figures 1 1 A-1 1 F are simplified illustrations of a typical operating sequence of the windshield wiper drive system of Figures 8 and 9 in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention; • Figure 12 is a simplified illustration of a system of
cam for controlling a spray head during the operating sequence of the windshield wiper drive system of the
Figures 1 1 A-1 1 F, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; Figures 13 and 14 are simplified pictorial and sectional illustrations, respectively, of a windshield wiper
constructed and operative according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, Figure 14 being taken along lines XIV-XIV of Figure 13; • Figure 1 5 is a partially sectioned, simplified illustration of a cartridge containing an additive that can be added to the fluid used in the windshield wiper cleaning apparatus of Figure 1, constructed in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, wherein the cartridge is installed in the system and the additive flows in solution with the fluid; 10 Figure 16 is a simplified pictorial illustration of the
• cartridge of Figure 15; Figure 17 is a simplified pictorial illustration of a carrier for a plurality of such cartridges; Figure 18 is a partially sectioned illustration,
simplified of a fluid authorization system for verifying the use of an authorized fluid in the windshield wiper cleaning apparatus of Figure 1, constructed in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention; • Figures 19A and 19B are partially simplified section illustrations 20 of a solenoid constructed in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, and useful in the windshield wiper cleaning apparatus of the present invention, Figure 19B taken at along lines 19B-19B of Figure 19A; 25 Figure 20 is a simplified section illustration of the
apparatus for preventing damage due to freezing of the fluid in the windshield wiper cleaning apparatus of Figure 1, constructed in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention; Figure 21 is a simplified pictorial illustration of the apparatus for cutting off the electrical supply to the windshield wiper cleaning apparatus of Figure 1, in order to avoid possible damage due to overheating, constructed in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention.; Figure 22 is a simplified pictorial illustration of the apparatus of Figure 21 assembled with a heating element of the windshield wiper cleaning apparatus of Figure 1; Figure 23 is a simplified section illustration of the apparatus for cutting the electrical supply to the windshield wiper cleaning apparatus of Figure 1, in order to avoid possible damage due to overheating, constructed in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present invention. invention; Figure 24 is a simplified section illustration of the apparatus for cutting the electrical supply to the windshield wiper cleaning apparatus of Figure 1, in order to avoid possible damage due to overheating, constructed in accordance with yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention; Figure 25 is a simplified block diagram illustration of the apparatus for cutting the electrical supply to the windshield wiper cleaning apparatus of Figure 1, with
in order to avoid possible damage due to overheating, constructed in accordance with yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention; and Figures 26-29 are simplified sectional illustrations of a solenoid useful in the windshield wiper cleaning apparatus of Figure 1, constructed in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Reference is now made to Figure 1, which is a schematic pictorial illustration showing an apparatus 20 for cleaning and thawing electrically energized windows for vehicles, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, shown assembled for use in a car 22 having a windshield 24 covered with ice 26. A container 28 that can be heated for windshield washer fluid is connected between a tank 30 of car wash fluid 22 and spray heads 32, which spray the fluid on the windshield 24, when it is operated by an operator 25 of the automobile. The operator can operate the apparatus either from the interior or exterior of the automobile 22, such as by means of a remote control 90, as shown in Figure 1 and is further described below. The container 28 has an inlet orifice 34, which receives flushing fluid from the reservoir 30, and an outlet orifice 36 through which hot fluid is discharged to the reservoirs.
i »* * 23 spray heads 32. The fluid is driven by a pump 40, which is already present generally in the automobile 22 to spray unheated fluid to a clean windshield 24. A battery 42
• provides power to the apparatus 20, and the cleaners 44 cleanse of
melted ice and windshield dirt, as is known in the art. A controller 46 regulates the operation of the apparatus 20, and optionally controls the wipers 44 in conjunction with the operation of the apparatus. Other aspects and details of the apparatus 20 are described further below. Reference is now made to Figure 2 showing details
• of the container 28 and other elements of the apparatus 20, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. The container 28 is generally cylindrical in shape and comprises an internal chamber 52 surrounded by an external chamber 54. The internal chamber
52 is contained and defined by an inner wall 56, preferably constructed of a metal such as stainless steel. The outer chamber 54 is surrounded by an external wall 54 of the container, preferably constructed of an insulating matepal, such
• like a plastic. A heating element 50 inside the
Inner chamber 52 hot the fluid in the container 28. As a result of the concentric arrangement of the chambers 52 and 54, the heat losses of the container 28 are minimized, since the heat loss by the hot fluid in the chamber 52 is used greatly to pre-heat the coolest fluid in chamber 54.
Since the fluid in chamber 54 is colder, its losses
Heat through the outer wall 58 are relatively small. The heating element 50 preferably comprises an electrical element heated by resistance, which is energized by the battery 42 via the controller 46, according to a heating sequence described further below. Alternatively or additionally, the element 50 can be heated by heat exchange with a heat source in the automobile 22, such as the engine cooling fluid or exhaust. Electric heating by the battery 42 is advantageous, however, since it allows the container 28 to be heated rapidly even before the automobile is ignited. Preferably, the element 50 consumes approximately 400 W, which can easily be supplied by typical automobile batteries. In addition, the container 28 is preferably sized so that in about one minute or less of actuation, it is capable of heating and discharging fluid of a volume and temperature sufficient to melt the ice 26. For this purpose, the internal chamber 52 contains preferably about 50 ml of the fluid. It will be appreciated, however, that the principles of the present invention can be applied in a similar manner by scaling the volume of the container 28 and the energy of the element 50 to any required capacity. In particular, when the apparatus 20 is used in larger vehicles, such as trucks or vessels, the volume and power consumption of the vessel will typically be more
substantially larger than in the automobile 22 After an initial quantity of hot fluid has been discharged, the pump 40 and the inlet valve 66 are operated to fill the container 28. Although the heating element 50 and the wall 56 are not already as hot as they were before the initial amount of fluid was introduced into the container, they still retained some residual heat, facilitating rapid heating of the filling fluid. When the filling fluid reaches a desired temperature, preferably with the heating element 50 reaching a temperature of several hundred degrees C, and / or after a predetermined period of time, it is discharged through the spray heads 32. This process is repeated a desired number of times in sequence, until an entire sequence of downloads has been completed, as described below, or until the windshield has been cleaned and / or thawed, or until the temperature in the container 28 falls below a predetermined minimum, or until it is interrupted by the operator 25. The driver can then actuate the apparatus 20 again and start a new cycle of heating and discharge of fluid. Preferably, each time the container 28 is filled, hot fluid is discharged through the spray heads 32 for approximately 3 seconds at intervals of approximately 5 seconds or more between refills, generally as determined by the time necessary for the fluid reach a desired temperature such as 80-100 ° C. The temperature of the last discharges in the sequence may be lower than that of the initial and previous discharges. Further preferably, the wipers 44 are operated in cooperation with the fluid discharge from the apparatus 20, so that the wipers 44 continue only during and shortly after the fluid discharge Optionally, the wiper operation may be delayed, so that the cleaners do not operate during the initial discharge, when the ice 26 has not yet melted, but only to start from the second and subsequent discharges. After the sequence of discharges of hot fluid has been completed, valve 66 is closed (relative to container 28), and drain valve 62 is preferably opened, so that any fluid remaining in the container can be drained back to the reservoir 30. The pump 40 is not generally sealed against the return flow. Accordingly, a pressure relief valve 73 is preferably provided to relieve any buildup of fluid pressure in such a case. The pressure relief valve 73 allows the fluid to return to the reservoir 30 in the case of overpressure. An upper end 61 of the drainage hole 60 is preferably raised relative to the bottom of the chamber 52, so that a minimum amount of fluid will be left in the container 28 even after draining. The container is then ready for quick operation for the next time it is
operate the apparatus 20 The alternating line 76 (bypass) allows the unheated fluid from the reservoir 30 to be pumped directly to the heads 32 of
• sprayed, without passing through the container 28. Line 76 is open for the spray heads 32 whenever a valve 74, * preferably a three-way valve, is closed relative to the outlet orifice 36. Line 76 can be used in hot weather, when thawing is not necessary, or when a cleaning spray is immediately needed, and there is no time to
heat the fluid. The valve 74 remains open preferably
• in relation to line 76, so that the line fluid is transported to the spray heads 32, as long as the heating apparatus is not operated. A one-way valve 80 on line 76 preferably blocks any return flow of the
fluid through the line. The apparatus 20 thus provides additional functionality for window cleaning for the automobile 22, at a relatively low cost and without interfering with the pre-existing window washing capabilities. The device can be installed either as part of the
window washing system in a new car, or it can be easily accommodated in an existing washing system. Although the parts of the apparatus 20 are shown in Figures 1 and 2 in certain positions and orientations with respect to the automobile 22 and the washing system therein, others are clearly possible.
positions and orientations. For example, the container 28 can be
placed at an angle different from the orientation shown in the figures, provided that the holes 34, 36 and 60 are properly positioned and oriented in the container. • The control of the apparatus 20 by the controller 46 was described above as being based on the feedback for the controller provided by a detector 64. This detector is shown in Figure 2 being positioned at the upper end of the container 28, where it will measure the temperature or steam or fluid in the chamber 52, depending on whether the chamber is empty or full. He
controller 46 tracks and monitors preferably changes in
• temperature detected by the detector 64 during the container heating / filling / discharging cycles 28. If the temperature exceeds a predetermined maximum, or if the temperature changes do not follow a predetermined normal profile, the controller will conclude
that a malfunction has occurred, such as input block 34 or output 36 or a fault of the detector 64, and will preferably interrupt the operation of the apparatus and notify the operator 25 by an appropriate signal. • In addition to or alternative to detector 64, there may be a
temperature detector 301 closer to the bottom of the container 28, for measuring the temperature of the fluid there, or a temperature sensor 302 mounted on, on or near the heating element 50. Other detectors, such as a pressure or pressure state detector or a fluid level detector 303, may be
also fixed in the container and provide feedback to
controller 46 Additional temperature sensors may also be used, including a detector 82 on an external surface of the container 28, a detector 84 in the reservoir 30 for measuring the
^ temperature of the fluid in it, and a detector 86 in a
external surface of the automobile 22, most preferably on the windshield 24. These detectors provide inputs to the controller 46 which according to fixed parameters such as the voltage applied to the element 50 and / or the magnitudes of time during which the element and the fluid in the
container 28. Preferably, the controller sets the parameters so that the fluid is sprayed onto the windshield 24 at a temperature high enough to melt the ice 26 rapidly under prevailing environmental conditions, as indicated by the
detector 86, for example, but not so high (in relation to windshield temperature) as to create a danger of windshield breakage or to violate safety regulations in this regard. The selection of the parameters is preferably automatic, without requiring the intervention of the operator 25 of the automobile 22, except
to activate or deactivate the apparatus 20 as desired. The aforementioned description is that of the apparatus described in PCT Application PCT / US98 / 13023. The improvements to this apparatus are now described, first with reference to Figure 2. In addition to or alternatively to the detector 64, a detector 304 of
The temperature is preferably mounted on or near each
í..4.A-kA- -A ü. The temperature sensor 304 can be additionally mounted in a connection te 305 of the spray heads The temperatures of the spray heads 32 they are fed to the controller 46 and provide additional feedback control to set parameters such as the voltage applied to the element 50 and / or the time magnitudes during which the element and the fluid in the container 28 are heated. vessel 28, there
usually a small amount of fluid remaining in the
• same, as mentioned above, and as shown in Figure 2. It is seen that by such a small amount of fluid, the heating element 50 can not be submerged in the fluid, but rather can be exposed in most of the its length to the air
inside the container 28. In such a case, activating the heating element 50 can be a waste, and what is worse, could cause damage by overheating. To solve this problem, an auxiliary heating element 306 is disposed of
• preference on the bottom of the container 28 The element 306 of
The heating may be formed as a coil heater, for example, or any other suitable low profile shape. The heating element 306 is preferably connected to and controlled by the controller 46. as described
now. If the amount of fluid in the container 28 is sufficient to
cover the heating element 306, but not the majority of the heating element 50, then it will take the heating element 306 a relatively short time to heat the
• fluid at a predetermined temperature, such as the 5 boiling point. However, if the amount of fluid in the container 28 is sufficient to cover both heating elements 50 and 306, then it will take the heating element 306 a longer time to heat the fluid to a predetermined temperature. The temperature detectors 301 and 302, as well
as the fluid level detectors 303 and 309 or any
• other optional sensors mounted on the container 28, can be used to monitor the time necessary for the predetermined temperature rise, such time is processed by the controller 46 to control the heating of the elements 50
and 306 of heating. For example, if the supervised time is relatively short, that is, below a predetermined threshold, the controller 46 interprets that this means that the fluid covers only the heating element 306, and thus only the heating element 306 is activated and Noel
heating element 50. If the time equals or exceeds the predetermined threshold, the controller 46 interprets this to mean that the fluid sufficiently covers both heating elements 50 and 306, and thus both heating elements 50 and 306 are activated. As mentioned above, the control of the device 20 by
the controller 46 is described as being based on the feedback to the controller provided by the detector 64. As an additional security aspect, in the case of a failure in the control system, a thermo-switch 5 308, not connected to the controller, may be provided. controller, at the upper end of the container 28, which monitors the temperature or vapor or fluid in the chamber 52, depending on whether the chamber is empty or full. If the temperature exceeds a predetermined maximum, the thermo-switch 308 independently turns off the operation of the
apparatus, even in the case of a fault in the electrical system of the
• vehicle or apparatus 20, and optionally, can notify operator 25 by an appropriate signal. Reference is now made to Figure 3 which illustrates the pumping system 310 for filling and draining useful in the apparatus 20 of
de-icing and window cleaning, constructed and operative in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. In the embodiment of Figure 3, the system 310 preferably employs the pump 40 described above. The pump 40 is preferably a centrifugal pump for water which means that it is a pump
is irreversible, that is, noise generally flows from an input 40A to an output 40B. According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a first solenoid 312 is in fluid communication between the inlet 40A of the pump 40 and the reservoir 30. An orifice
314 of the solenoid interface 312 is preferably connected to the
reservoir 30 via a fluid line 324 and an outlet orifice 31 5 is preferably connected to the inlet 40A via a fluid line 326 and a tee 316 connector. Similarly, a second
• Solenoid 31 8 is preferably in fluid communication between the outlet 40B of the pump 40 and the container 28. An interface port 320 of the solenoid 318 is preferably connected to the inlet orifice 34 via a line 328 of fluid and a connector 330. Another hole 319 of the solenoid 318 is preferably connected to the outlet 40B via a connector te 322 and a line 327 of fluid. In the normally open position of the solenoid 312, the hole 31 5 is open and a third hole 340 is closed. Similarly, in the normally open position of the solenoid 318, the hole 319 is open and a third hole 336 is closed. Conversely, in the closed position of solenoid 312, the hole
315 is closed and the third hole 340 is open, and in the closed position of the solenoid 318, the hole 319 is closed and the third hole 336 is open. The control of the solenoids 312 and 318, as well as of the other elements of the system 310, is preferably carried out by means of the controller 46. According to a
In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the solenoids 312 and 318 can be constructed as shown and described below with reference to Figures 19A and 19B. The pump system 310 is used to fill the container 28 when the solenoids are preferably in the position
normally open. The pump 40 is operated to draw fluid from the
reservoir 30 through fluid line 324 (in the direction of the solid line in Figure 3) to solenoid 312 Fluid enters port 314 and flows out of port 315 open through the line
• 326 of fluid, beyond the connector 316 to the inlet 40A of the pump 40. It is noted that the fluid does not flow from the connector 316 to the solenoid 318 because the orifice 336 is closed. The fluid flows from the outlet 40B of the pump 40 past the connector 322 via the fluid line 327 to the open orifice 319 of the solenoid 318. The flow leaves the solenoid 318 via the orifice 320 and the fluid line 328 (in FIG.
the direction of the solid line in Figure 3) to the connector tee 330.
• The container 28 is preferably equipped with a one way valve 334 which allows the fluid to flow only out of the drain orifice 60. Therefore, the fluid can flow only from the tee connector 330 to the inlet hole 34 that
preferably comprises a valve (referred to herein as a valve 34). The valve 34 is opened by the controller 46, and the fluid fills the container 18. When it is desired to drain the fluid from the container 28, they are activated
• the solenoids to be in the closed position. The action of
Pumping of the pump 40 causes the fluid to drain out of the drain hole 60 and flows via the one-way valve 334 to the tee 330. The valve 34 is closed by the controller 46 so that the fluid is forced to flow through line 328 of fluid (in the direction of the dotted line in Figure 3) to port 320 of the
solenoid 318. Since the hole 319 is closed, the fluid
flows out of the orifice 336 of the solenoid 31 8 via a fluid line 338 to the tee 316 connector (in the direction of the dotted line in Figure 3) Since the hole 315 of the solenoid 312 is
• closed, the fluid can flow only from the connector 316 to the inlet 40A of the pump 40. The fluid exits through the outlet 40B of the pump 40 and flows to the connector te 322. Since the hole 319 of the solenoid 318 is closed, the fluid can flow only from the connector te 322 to the orifice 340 of the solenoid 312 (in the direction of the dotted line in Figure 3). The fluid then comes out through the
hole 314 of solenoid 312 back to reservoir 30 (in the
• direction of the dotted line in Figure 3), and the drain is completed. Reference is now made to Figure 4 which illustrates a pumping system 350 for filling and draining useful in the apparatus 20 of
de-icing and window cleaning, constructed and operative in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present invention. The pumping system 350 is constructed similarly to the pumping system 310, with the similar elements being
• designated by similar numerals. (The relief valve 73
pressure and other elements are not shown for the sake of simplification). The pumping system 350 differs from the system 31 0 in that the system 350 preferably employs a reversible pump 352, such as a gear pump, i.e. the fluid can flow both in and out of a first
hole 352A and a second hole 352B. In addition, in the system of
pumping 350 there is no need for solenoids When it is desired to fill the container 28 with fluid, the pump 352 is operated so that the fluid is pumped in the direction
• of the arrows 356 Fluid flows from the reservoir 30 via the line 324 5 of fluid through the pump 352, from there via the fluid line 328 to the connector 330, finally entering and filling the container 28 via the valve 34 open, since the fluid can not flow past the one-way valve 334. When it is desired to drain the fluid from the container 28, it is reversed
the pumping direction of the pump 352 so that the pump
• 352 pumped fluid now in the direction of the arrows 354. The fluid is drained outwardly by the drainage orifice 60 and flows via the one-way valve 334 to the tee connector 330. The valve 34 is closed so that the fluid is forced to flow on line 328 of
fluid back to pump 352, from there to tank 30, and the drain is completed. Reference is now made to Figure 5 which is a timing diagram illustrating a sequence 96 of heating / filling / discharging cycles of apparatus 20, in accordance with a
preferred embodiment of the present invention. The pumping system used can be the reversible pumping system of Figure 4. In such a case, the pumping system can pump fluid to the container 28 (indicated by a positive ordinate in the graph) or can drain fluid from the container 28 ( indicated by a
ordered negative in the graph). It is noted that the pump 352 can
to be intermittently actuated when needed, or alternatively, the pump 352 can be operated continuously and the controller 46 can be used to change the pump 352 between the fill mode or draining mode as desired. Initially, as described above, the drain valve 62 is opened and the heating element 306 and / or heating element 50 energized to pre-heat the container 28. The valve 62 is closed, preferably after approximately 15 seconds . Alternatively, the drain valve can be kept closed for a short period, preferably about 20 seconds, so that the fluid in the container 28 is heated to a high temperature before the valve opens. This alternative is particularly useful if the controller 46 determines that one of the valves, particularly the inlet valve 66, is stuck and will not open, in which case hot fluid is used to force the valve to open. The heating continues until the detectors 64 or 301 reach a target temperature, preferably about 85 ° C (depending on the exact position of the detector), in the chamber 52, or for about 70 seconds, if the temperature does not reach the target temperature . At that point, the pump 40 and the inlet and outlet valves 66 and 74 are opened, to admit and discharge the initial amount of fluid. The temperature in the chamber 52 drops, and is subsequently reheated, preferably up to about 60 ° C, whereby a second
amount of fluid is admitted and discharged. The reheat, fill and discharge process continues for a predetermined number of cycles, or until the operator completes 25. After the final discharge in sequence 96, the drain valve 62 opens, and the elements 50 and / or 306, which are energized substantially continuously throughout the sequence, remain energized for about 1 5 more seconds, in order to heat and remove from the container 28 as much as possible of any remaining fluid therein, until the upper end level 61. The apparatus is then ready to begin the next sequence, when required in its area. Most preferably, as seen in Figure 5, first the heating element 306 is energized before the heating element 50, preferably a delay of about 2-10 seconds before energizing the heating element 50. Similarly, most preferably, the heating element 50 is turned off at the end of the cycle before the heating element 306. Delays at the beginning and end of the cycles between the heating elements 50 and 306 are preferably part of the duty cycle to prevent overheating of the heating element 50 and to ensure proper initial heating of the amount of fluid left in the system. bottom of the container 28. In the operation mode described with reference to Figure 5, it is possible that cold fluid may remain in the fluid lines
in the direction of the spray heads This is undesirable because the same first spray of fluid in the windshield would then be cold, and only then the hot fluid would reach the windshield. In contrast to the mode of operation described with reference to Figure 5, a different mode of operation can be used in order to avoid this phenomenon. The pumping system can be stopped while the fluid is still flowing to the container 28 (due to the inertial movement), and only after a delay, the fluid can be re-routed, by
means of the valve, from the direction towards the container 28 to the
• direction towards the spray heads. In this manner, any cold fluid that can remain in the fluid lines, flows only to the container 28 and does not flow to the spray heads. Reference is made to Figure 6 which illustrates a spray head 360 with multiple outputs constructed and operative in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. The spray head 360 of multiple outputs preferably includes a
• plurality of outputs, such as a central exit 362 and two
external outputs 364 and 366, although any number of outputs can also be used. In the embodiment of Figure 6, the outlets are preferably supplied with fluid via a solenoid 368. The solenoid 368 has an inlet 362 into which fluid can flow from a pressurized source of fluid. The fluid leaves
preference of the solenoid 368 from an output 372 via a connector
374 to the spray head outlets 364 and 366 The fluid is preferably fed directly from the pressurized fluid source via a tee connection to the central outlet 362. In the normally open position of the solenoid 368, the
hole 372 opens and a third hole 378 closes. Conversely, in the closed position of the solenoid 368, the orifice 372 closes and the third orifice 378 opens. However, in the embodiment of Figure 6, the third output 378 is plugged and not used. In the embodiment of Figure 6, the fluid flow from the
Spray head 360 can be controlled, such as by means of the
• Controller 46, to spray off the exits in a variety of ways. For example, the controller 46 may energize the solenoid 368 to a closed position so that the fluid exits initially through the central outlet 362 only, with no fluid coming out
initially through the outlets 364 and 366. After some initial delay, the solenoid 368 can be opened so that the fluid exits through the outlets 364 and 366, the fluid leaving these two outlets substantially simultaneously. The controller 46
• can then continue spraying from exit 362, as well as
the outputs 364 and 366, or can cause any type of intermittent and continuous spray combination from the three outputs. It is noted that in the embodiment of Figure 6, outputs 364 and 366 always spray together. Reference is now made to Figure 7 which illustrates a head
360 spray with multiple outputs built and operational of
according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention, in which there is no connector tee 374. The orifice 372 feeds the outlet 364 of the spray head and the third orifice 378 feeds the
• 366 spray head outlet. 5 In the embodiment of Figure 7, the flow of fluid from the head
Spray 360 can be controlled, such as by means of the controller 46, to spray from the outputs in a variety of ways. For example, the controller 46 can close the solenoid 368 so that the fluid exits initially through the central outlet
362 and outlet 366, with no fluid exiting the outlet 364. After some initial delay, the solenoid 368 can be opened so that the fluid exits the central outlet 362 and outlet 364, with no fluid exiting the outlet 366. It is It is also possible to place the solenoid 368 in a partially open position where it can exit
fluid of both outputs 364 and 366, as well as by the central outlet 362. The difference between the modalities shown in Figures 6 and 7 is that in the mode 6, the outputs 364 and 366 always sprayed together, while in the modality of Figure 7, the outlets 364 and 366 sprayed independently of one another. HE
Thus, it is appreciated that in general a greater variety of spray patterns is possible with the embodiment of Figure 7 than with the embodiment of Figure 6. Reference is now made to Figures 8 and 9 which illustrate a system cleaner activator 400 windshield built and
Operative according to a preferred embodiment of the present
invention. The windshield wiper activator system 400 is capable of placing windshield wipers 402 and 404 in either a summer parking mode (Figure 8) or a windshield wiper mode.
# winter parking (Figure 9). The windshield wiper activator system 400 preferably includes a motor 406 which is connected to the wipers by means of a rod 408 which is pivotally connected to an articulated arm 410 which is pivotally connected in turn by means of members 412 and 414
articulated to the wipers 402 and 404, respectively. The
• travel limits of the articulated members 412 and 414 are shown in dotted lines in Figures 8 and 9. It is seen that there are preferably provided detectors to detect the limits of the trip. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, a pair of
micro switches 416 and 418. In the summer parking mode, the wipers 402 and 404 are brought to a horizontal or near horizontal position and a contact 420 of the motor 406 drives the micro switch 416. In the parking mode of In winter, the cleaners 402 and 404 are brought to a position not
horizontally, possibly to a vertical position, and contact 420 activates micro-switch 418. It is appreciated that other detectors can be used instead of the micro-switches, such as the Hall effect detector, to detect travel limits . In the summer parking position, the cleaners
are in horizontal rest or near the horizontal position, since
i .--. iá »faith ..? .ife- .... t. --- 3 ------ --.-... ,,., ... .JU, - .t &Á! ¡Í. ,? < d & .a.y. .,.? .? - That in the summer there is usually no ice. However, in the winter, if ice forms, the cleaners may stick to the window of the vehicle, or else the ice formed may prevent the
• movement of the cleaners. If the cleaners initially had to be in a horizontal position, at the beginning of the thaw the cleaners would start to move only in the lower portion of the vehicle window, and the window area of the vehicle initially cleaned would not even provide a viewing area. convenient for safe driving. The driver must
wait until the melting appliance has melted
• sufficient amount of ice so that the cleaners can swing up to clear a view space in the vehicle window for safe driving. Placing cleaners to the non-horizontal parking position of
winter, the initially cleaned area of the vehicle, at the beginning of the thawing process, already provides a convenient viewing area for safe driving. As shown in Figure 9, the cleaning fluid (reference
• numeral 407) is downloaded from cleaners 402 and 405 by them
, this embodiment is shown and described hereinafter with reference to Figures 13 and 14. We now refer to Figure 10 which illustrates a simplified block diagram of a wiper drive system 400 in a vehicle window. The 406 engine is preferably controlled
by a wiper controller 422 preferably with a motor
í M-r-? te¿é-t, i.-i? J ^^ ¡ku? Í? * IÍ?.,? T * th? ?you? > s- *** »i? AMf ^ Já ^^^ ás ^^^ tiÉa? Jíji ?? l M drive 406 via power transmission 424 The microswitches 416 and 418 are preferably in electrical communication with the controller 422. The temperature detectors 64 or 304 are preferably in electrical communication with the
controller 422 also. An arrow encoder 426 is preferably supplied to detect the rotation of the motor 406 and therefore the rotation of the wipers as well. The arrow encoder 426 can also count the number of strokes of the motor 406 during the operation of the cleaners, the importance
of this will be described hereafter. • Another example of the detectors that can provide information to the controller 46 for the purpose of controlling the heating or heating elements 50 and 306 is a wind speed detector 57 and a vehicle speed detector
59, the latter is preferably the standard speed detector used with the vehicle speedometer. The wind can cool the fluid before it reaches the vehicle window. Therefore, the controller 46 can correlate the wind speed in
• terms of the thermal effect on the fluid temperature and
compensate by therefore heating the fluid to a higher temperature before spreading it in the window of the vehicle. Alternatively, if there is no appreciable wind, the controller 46 can save electricity and heat the fluid to a slightly lower temperature. The driver can bring the window cleaner system 400 of the vehicle to the winter parking position manually. Alternatively the system 400 can be operated automatically. For example, the temperature detectors 64 or 304, or a temperature detector outside the
• 5 vehicle, can be used to detect a temperature drop during the night and the detected temperature change is interpreted by the controller 422 to move the window cleaners of the vehicle to a winter parking position. 10 As mentioned above, where there is an icing, the cleaners can adhere to the window of the vehicle, and even if not, icing can impede the movement of the cleaners. In this initial phase, the 406 motor is called to produce a large amount of torque and can reach about
to warm up and decompose. Therefore, it is important to prevent this breakdown of the 406 engine. This can be done in several ways. For example, the arrow encoder 426 or the switching of the motor 406 can be used to count the number of strokes of the motor 406 during the operation of the
cleaners. The controller 422 may compare the number of beats with a predetermined amount to interpret whether the motor 406 is being overworked. If the engine 106 is being overworked, then the controller 422 can shut off the operation of the engine 406 to prevent damage thereafter. 25 As another example, since the signal from controller 422 to
_L3 --- A.t._AaJL - L-- - i - L > ----, ^ and ^ A-. ..-or-.,-...--. -. -. - ^ ..- .. a- ^ > - ^ - [- fc-ii.-1t, impeller 424 is generally proportional to the output current of the impeller 424 to the motor 426, an intolerable increase in the output current of the impeller 424 can be used as an indicator of overheating of the 406 engine In that case, there's
• 5 need for an arrow encoder. As another example, the action or non-action of the micro switches 416 and 418 supplies controllers 46 and 422 with an indication of a clockwise or counterclockwise movement of the wipers 402 and 404.
the simple fact of detecting which micro-switch is operated before the other, the controllers 46 and 422 can indicate the direction of movement of the cleaner. Even for the small movements of the cleaners, where only a micro-switch can be operated, the controllers 46 and 422 can still
detect the direction of movement of the cleaners. The number of times a particular micro switch is activated, or alternatively, the number of motor pulses 406 may indicate the movement of the cleaners. Additionally, micro switches 416 and 418 can be used to monitor
any overload on the motor 406, without the need for an arrow encoder 426 or even an impeller 424. For example, the contact 420 of the motor 406 may be in initial contact with the micro switch 416. If there is no obstruction to the movement of the the wipers, the motor 406 will start to rotate and the micro-switch 416 will be released. However, if there is an obstruction
at the movement of the wipers, the motor 406 will jam something, and the micro switch 416 will not be released. The controller 422 can then interpret the release or non-release of the microswitch 416 to detect and prevent overheating of the motor 406. We now refer to Figures 1 1 A-1 1 F which show a typical sequence of operation of the system of actuator 400 of the vehicle window cleaners in relation to a preferable embodiment of the present invention. In the description below, the fluid is scattered from the head of the sprayer 360 (Figure 7), but it can be appreciated that other sprays can also be used. In Figure 11A, cleaners 402 and 404 are in the winter parking position so they are located in a non-horizontal position. Central outlet 362 and outlet 364 of sprayer 360 spreads fluid to zones 430 and 432 for the purpose of beginning to melt ice accumulated in the vehicle window. The motor 406, tries to balance the cleaners in the clockwise direction indicated by an arrow. The torque of the motor 406 is measured for a predetermined period of time, such as 0.5 sec. If the torque reaches a predetermined value, the controller 422 shuts off the engine 406. In Figure 1 1 B, the central outlet 362 and the outlet 364 of the sprinkler 360 continues to spread fluid in the zones 430 and 432. The
motor 406, try to balance the wipers counterclockwise indicated by an arrow 436. The torque of the motor 406 is re-measured for a predetermined period of time, and if the torque reaches a predetermined value 5, the controller 422 turns off the engine 406. In Figure 1 1 C, the central outlet 362 and the outlet 364 of the sprayer 360, continue to spread fluid in the zones 430 and 432. By this time, the fluid has successfully melted some ice. The 406 engine succeeds now to balance both cleaners
both clockwise and counter-clockwise
• the clock hands (arrows 434 and 436). When the torque of the motor 406 reaches a predetermined level, the controller 422 changes the direction of the balance of the wipers to be in the clockwise direction, to be against the
clock hands and vice versa. In Figure 1 1 D, the exit 366, begins to spread the fluid to the area 438, and the exit 364 temporarily turns off. The central outlet 362 continues to spread fluid. The 406 engine, deals now
• to swing the cleaners away from the hands
of the clock to be able to clean a trace of the cleaners further away from the vehicle window. It is noted that alternately, exit 364 remains open to continue spreading fluid to the vehicle window. It can also be appreciated that a variety of spray patterns can be employed in cleaning and thawing
of the vehicle window and the pattern mentioned above is
only one of these possibilities In Figure 1 1 E, the trace of the cleaners has increased and a larger portion of the vehicle window has been cleaned. In Figure 1 1 F, the fluid has been successful in melting the
Ice and cleaners swing freely through the vehicle window. Sprayer head 360 is preferably controlled by controller 360, as mentioned above. The control of the sprinklers in any suitable way, for example electronic or
mechanically. An example of a new way to control sprinklers is described below. Reference is now made to Figure 12, which shows a cam system 440, for controlling the sprinkler 460 during the operating sequence of the actuator system 400 of the 15 window washers of the vehicle, in accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention. In the 440 cam system, the outlets 362, 364 and 366 are preferably regulated by the individual valves 442, 444 and 446, respectively. The valves can be electronic or solenoid, for example. The valves 20 are equipped with push rods 448, 450 and 452, respectively, which are activated through a cam system 454 attached to the cleaner 402 or 404. The cam surface of the cam 454 is designed with a spray pattern. For example, as shown in Figure 12,
the cam 454 can initially push down on the
- - & *? F l llll. - y-yMá-z-trA-- !.
rods 448 and 450 to the action valves 442 and 444 to allow a sprinkling from the outlets 362 and 364, while initially the rod 452 is not pushed down by the cam 454 so that the outlet 366 is initially closed. While the wiper 402 or 404 swings counterclockwise, the cam 454 pushes down the rod 452 and opens the outlet 366 from there all the time the outlets 362 and 364, remaining open. It can be appreciated that a variety of spray patterns can be used to clean and thaw
the window of the vehicle and the pattern mentioned above is
• only one of these possibilities. Referring now to Figures 13 and 14 the vehicle window cleaner 460 constructed and operational according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention. The cleaner
vehicle window 460 has a longitudinal calibrator 462 formed therefrom for fluid flow from that point. The calibrator 462 communicates fluidly with a plurality of exit holes 464 to apply the fluid in the window of the
• vehicle. A blade 466 extends from the body 468 of the
460 cleaner for a vehicle window cleaning. The fluid preferably enters the calibrator 462 at one end of the cleaner 460, the opposite end 472 being substantially sealed. Referring now to Figures 15 and 16 illustrating
the cartridge 480, useful in the cleaning device of the window of
Vehicle of the present invention The fluid used in the vehicle window cleaner cleaning apparatus of the present invention is any kind of suitable cleaning fluid, and as such, may contain an additive such as an antifreeze. The cartridge 490 is an important element for adding an additive as such to the cleaning fluid of the vehicle window. Referring to Figure 16, the cartridge 480 contains an additive 482. The cartridge 480 can be made of any kind of suitable material, such as plastic or metal, an additive 482 can be in liquid or solid form. In the case of solid form, the cartridge 480 can itself be a solid block of additive. The cartridge 480 fits an apertured fastener 484 which is sealed by a plug 486. The plug 486, preferably snaps sealingly into the apertured fastener 484 and is provided with a threaded collar 488, the portion of threaded collar 485 formed by a plurality of side-to-side holes 487. Holes 487 are in fluid communication with caliper 483 which in turn is in fluid communication with apertured holder 484. Referring now to Figure 15 it can be seen that the threaded collar 488 can be screwed into the tank 490 and sealed, preferably with an O-ring 491. The reservoir has a fluid inlet 492. The fluid can enter the inlet 492, as in the reservoir 30 (Figure 2) and flow through the holes 487 and the
-üÉ- -jt-i-i Üifai iTi -.M - «. '•. 'i > ii --- -. "- - ^ -> - - üntfMiriiBujimgrtm UU calibrator 483 to the holder with opening 484. The cartridge 480 is immersed in the fluid and the additive 482 is mixed with the fluid, by filtration, water dissolving action or dissolution, by example. The fluid with an additive 482, then exists via the outlet 494 and flows into the container 28. Referring now to Figure 17, it is seen that a carrier 496 can be provided for convenient storage of a plurality of cartridges 480. We now refer to Figure 18 illustrating a fluid authorization system 500 for verifying the use of an authorized fluid in the vehicle window cleaning apparatus of Figure 1, constructed in accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention. The fluid authorization system 500 preferably includes a membrane 502 and a window viewer 504 which are both preferably sealed by a sealant 506, like an O-ring, of rectangular shape, for example. The membrane 502 is preferably constructed of a material that disintegrates if it is not in the presence of a fluid authorized for use in an apparatus for cleaning the cleaner of a vehicle window of the present invention. For example, additive 482, mixed with water, can cause a chemical reaction that inhibits the decomposition or disintegration of membrane 502. (An example would be a membrane that decomposes in the presence of a basic solution and additive 482 changes the pH of the solution to neutral or acid, thus preventing the decomposition of the membrane). If an authorized fluid is not used, then any disintegration of the
Membrane may be viewed through the window viewer 504 Referring to Figure 19A and 19B illustrating a solenoid 510, constructed with the preferred embodiment of the present invention, and useful in the vehicle window cleaner cleaner apparatus of the present invention . The solenoid 510 comprises a central arrow 512 to a distal terminal which is generally secured to an inverted U-fork 514. The electromagnetic apparatus 51 1 is provided to move the arrow 512, generally in a linear fashion. A rod 516 is fixed by securing it to the fork 514 by the latch 518. Fixed to the base portion of a body 520 of a solenoid 510, it is a tube-receiving member 522. The tube-receiving member 522 preferably includes a pair of rods fixed 532 and 534 passing through the openings 536 and 538, respectively, formed in the fork 514. As seen in Figures 19A and 19B, a tube 528 is positioned between the stem 516 of the fork 514 and fixes the rod 532. A tube 530 is positioned between the rod 516 of the fork 514 and fixed with the rod 534. The fork 514 is disposed in the cavity 540 of a tube receiving member 522. The tubes 528 and 530 are preferably made of an elastic material, like rubber or neoprene. The elastic tubes returning to their original position from tablets to non-compressed apply a force on the arrow 512 and subsequent aids on the linear path of the arrow 512, whereby energy savings are realized. Figure 19A illustrates a normally open position of the
Solenoid 51 0 In this position, the rod 516 compresses the tube 530, in such a way that it substantially seals the tube 530 from the passage therefrom of a fluid. The tube 530 (like the tube 528) preferably has an elliptical cross section (or other non-circular adaptable shape) to facilitate its flattening. Synergistically, this shape also allows travel of small distances from the central arrow 512 and larger forces applied by the solenoid to the tubes. In the normal open position, tube 528 is not compressed and fluid can pass through. The solenoid 510 can be energized to a closed position.
In this position, the rod 516 carried upwards in the direction of Figures 1A and 19B, and now compresses the tube 528 so that it seals the tube 528 substantially from its passage there of a fluid. In the closed position the tube 530 is not compressed and the fluid can pass from here. It is also possible to energize the solenoid 510 to be in a partially open position from where fluid can exit both tubes 528 and 530. It is appreciated by persons skilled in the art that the solenoid 510 structure can be modified to seal and open only one of the tubes or more than two tubes if desired. It is also appreciated that the normally open position and closed positions can be reversed. Additionally the tubes can be connected by suitable connections, such as the tee connections. Reference is now made to Figure 20 illustrating the apparatus
i?.?. dit ..tt? dAi, 600 to avoid damage due to the freezing of fluid in the windshield wiper cleaner apparatus of Figure 1 constructed according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention. The apparatus 600 preferably includes a movable platform 602 adhered to a rod 604 at the bottom of the chambers 52 and 54 of the container 28. a tilt device 606 such as a coil spring is mounted on a rod and normally makes the platform 602 move up. The rod 604 is arranged to slide out of the container 28 through a calibrator 607. If the fluid in the internal or external chambers 52 and 54 freezes and expands by freezing the frozen fluid may expand against the platform 602. The platform 602 it will compress the tilting device 606 and move downward due to the expansion force of the frozen fluid. In this way, the frozen fluid that expands will not against the wall 56 and no damage will be caused to the wall 56. Another example of the apparatus for preventing damage due to freezing of the fluid is shown in Figure 23. In this embodiment, a lid 608 is ready at the top of! container 28. The lid normally seals the container 28. If the fluid in the inner and outer chambers 52 and 54 freezes and expands from freezing, the frozen fluid will expand against the lid 608. The lid 608 is not secured in a manner tight to the container 28 and can move upward due to the force of the freezing fluid that expands. This
J ^. ¥ J5. ¿.-- t.-t ----- t-A -.-- i ----. . ? á?, M.Í - y- * y * - JtÁ 'Jt? yAA. - t.H «.». < - ». ^^. A¿ í. ^ - ^ J - * - > --J-_, -fc--.
In this manner, the frozen fluid that expands simply pushes the cap 608 expanding outwardly and upwardly instead of against the wall 56, so that no damage is caused to the
• wall 56. 5 Reference is now made to Figures 21 and 22 which illustrate an apparatus for cutting off the electrical supply of the windshield wiper cleaning apparatus of Figure 1, for the purpose of avoiding possible damage due to overheating, constructed in accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention. In
this mode, the 610 fuse is electrically arranged
• connected to a heating element 50. The fuse 61 0 includes a portion 612 exposed to the fluid in the container 28. Upon reaching a predetermined critical temperature, above which damage to the components of the cleaning apparatus of the device can occur.
windshield wipers, the fuse 610 causes an interruption in the power supply to the heating element 50, and therefore prevents possible damage due to overheating. The 610 fuse is thus an element of
• protection that is internal to container 28 and that is in contact
with the fluid in the container 28. Reference is now made to Figure 23 which illustrates an apparatus for cutting off the power supply of the wiper cleaner of the windshield of Figure 1 for the purpose of preventing possible damage due to overheating , built of
According to another preferred embodiment for the present invention. In
ÍAÍ.ÁÁ.-, _, - ^ - ^^ »> -a ^ r - ^ - ^ 1) j a j || l this mode a fuse 614 is provided connected electrically connected to a heating element 50. The fuse 614 includes a body 616 to which a cover portion 618 is welded in a welded connection 619. The lid portion 618 is inclined by the tilt device 620, as a helical spring. The electrical connection of the fuse 614 to a heating element 50 is through the welded connection 619. The fuse 614 is exposed to the fluid in the container 28. As soon as it reaches a predetermined critical temperature, above which it can occur possible damage to the components of the windscreen wiper cleaning apparatus, the welded connection 619 is weakened due to a partial or complete melting of the weld and the tilt element 620 pushes the lid portion 618 up and out of the body 616, by it therefore causes a cut in the power supply to the heating element 50 and thus avoids a possible damage to the over-heating. The fuse 614 is also an internal protection element of the container 28 and is in contact with the fluid of the container 28. The fuse 614 is preferably mounted on a base 622 which is sealed with respect to the container 28 by means of a ring in O 624. A final cover 626 is screwed into the bottom of the container 28 and has a long central tab 628 which presses the base 622 against the O-ring 624, whereby the sealed connection with respect to the container 28 is formed. now refers to Figure 24 which illustrates a
apparatus for cutting the electrical supply to the windshield wiper cleaning apparatus of Figure 1, in order to avoid possible damage due to overheating, constructed in accordance with yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, a fuse 630 is provided which is physically internal to and electrically connected to the heating element 50. The heating element 50, comprises a resistor 631 connected to ground 633 through a sleeve 635 of electrically conductive cover. The fuse 630 can be a welded point, for example. Upon reaching a predetermined critical temperature, above which possible damage may occur to the components of the windshield wiper cleaning apparatus, the fuse 630 causes a break in the electrical supply to the heating element 50, and therefore the possible damage due to overheating is avoided. Reference is now made to Figure 25 which illustrates an apparatus for cutting the electrical supply to the windshield wiper cleaning apparatus of Figure 1, in order to avoid possible damage due to overheating, constructed according to yet another embodiment preferred of the present invention. In this embodiment, a FET (field effect transistor) 632 is in electrical communication with the controller 46, and comprises part of the control circuit used to control the operation of the apparatus 20 as described above. The FET 632 receives a command voltage signal from the controller 46. The FET 632 is connected
UJyliÍ.? Jí - < -l »Á * and ~ ¡» Me3 .-. zAy. - -t, -. ii- 4 ----.-----. S -., - irj¡fak ^, _ jB-l-i¿r "a-- ---? to heating element 50, and of course, to battery 42.
A voltage detector 633 is provided for detecting voltage drop across contacts A and B of FET 632. An external fuse 634 is provided to container 28. Upon reaching a predetermined critical temperature, above which damage may occur. As possible to the components of the windshield wiper cleaning apparatus, the fuse 630 causes a break in the electrical supply to the heating element 50, and thus the possible damage due to overheating is avoided. Another FET 636 is preferably connected in parallel to the
FET 632 and the heating element 50. The FET 636 receives a command voltage signal from one of the three sources: 1. Any of the temperature detectors associated with the container 28, such as the detectors 301 and 302, for example. 2. A thermostat 638 mounted on the vessel 28 (Figure 23) and dedicated to sending a command signal to the FET 636. 3. Logic circuit 640 that can send a command signal to the FET 636. The command signals are preferably sent to FET 636 via an interface 642 circuit. The operation of the apparatus of Figure 25 is now explained. If no command signal is sent to the FET 632 of the controller 46, the FET
632 opens and there is a voltage drop, such as 12 V, for example, through contacts A and B of FET 632. This is a normal condition where the heating element 50 is not
l -_-_ L.j-k.- A -ÁzA; ^ A. &JÚik energized If a command signal is sent to the F ET 632 of the controlled
46, such as a 5 V signal, for example, the FET 632 closes and the voltage drop across the contacts A and B of the FET 632 is almost zero. This is a normal condition where the heating element 50 is energized and heated However, if no command signal is sent to the FET 632 of the controller 46, but the voltage detector 633 detects a voltage drop of almost zero through of A and B, then a malfunction has occurred. The near zero voltage drop detected by the voltage detector 633 is communicated to the logic circuit 640 which commands the FET 636 to close, whereby a high current is sent through the fuse 634 which breaks the fuse 634 and disconnects the supply of electricity to the heating element 50. Thus, the malfunction is prevented from causing the system to overheat. However, if no command signal is sent to the FET 632 of the controller 46, but the voltage detector 633 detects a near zero voltage drop across A and B, then a malfunction has occurred. The near zero voltage drop detected by the voltage detector 633 is communicated to the logic circuit 640 which commands the FET 636 to close, whereby a high current is sent through the fuse 634 which breaks the fuse 634 and disconnects the supply of electricity to the heating element 50. Thus, it prevents that the malfunction causes
overheating of the system. However, if command signal is sent to the F ET 632 of the controller 46, but the voltage detector 633 detects a voltage drop across A and B, such as the aforementioned 12 V, for example, then Another type of malfunction has occurred.
This type of malfunction is not dangerous because the FET 632 is open (as detected by the presence of the voltage drop of 12 V), and the heating element 50 will not be energized. However, since the system has detected a malfunction, the logic circuit 640 can still command the system to turn off, if desired. Reference is now made to Figures 26-29 illustrating a solenoid useful in the windshield wiper cleaning apparatus of Figure 1, constructed in accordance with another preferred diment of the present invention. The solenoid 650 preferably includes a coil 652 in electrical communication with a printed circuit board (PCB) of control circuit 654. Unlike other solenoids which are separately constructed items and electrically collected to the windscreen cleaner cleaning apparatus, the solenoid 650 is characterized by being electrically connected directly to the PCB 654, such as by means of hard wiring or electrical contacts connecting the electrical components of the solenoid 650, e.g. , coil 652, to PC B 654. The solenoid 650 is preferably attached to PC B 654 by any suitable method, such as by means of
í, ízÍ? .-? ¿. Á ... t.Á.Á.liÍ, .¿ .. L ^ and Z- A. *, ...,. ZZ.A Á ... A ..A.-Ziz, ...-- ..-- 1 ..- V. --.... J, -.-, ^ - ^ '¡- ¿- ^. I of mechanical fasteners ^, welding, gluing, etc. The solenoid
650 also includes an input 656 and a pair of outputs 658 and 660. The output 658 is fluidly connected to the heads of
^ sprayed, while the ßád output is connected fluidly
to the container 28 The solenoid 650 has a plunger 662 to direct the flow of fluid through the solenoid 650. In Figures 26 and 27, the plunger 662 is positioned somewhat away from the inlet end of the solenoid 650, whereby it is opened a passage 668 and the flow of a fluid to outlet 658 is directed.
Figures 28 and 29, plunger 662 has been moved towards the end of
"Input of the solenoid 650 so that the passage 668 is substantially sealed and the flow of a fluid to the outlet 660 is directed. The solenoid 650 is normally controlled by control signals received from the local control circuit 664 of the PCB 654. The
664 control circuit controls the functions of the pump, heating element, high voltage supply, etc. Another portion of PCB 654, circuit 666, controls functions that are normally controlled by the vehicle's computer. Normally the operation of solenoid 650 is controlled by circuits 664 and
666. Alternatively, the circuit 666 may be connected to the vehicle computer, such as by means of optical links, hard wiring, interchanging, etc. , in which case the operation of the solenoid 650 is controlled by the 664 circuit and the vehicle computer. It will be appreciated that the preferred embodiments described
previously they are mentioned by way of example, and that the scope tota! of the invention is limited only by the claims. ütáL t- * y- & -i. - rfeaa j ?? - "-. '
Claims (47)
- RE IVI ND ICAC ION ES 1. An apparatus for cleaning or thawing a vehicle window, comprising: a tank for containing a washing fluid therein; 5 a container that has an entrance through which > * receives the washing fluid from the tank and an outlet through which the fluid is discharged to clean a vehicle window; and a first heating element disposed in the container for heating the fluid in the container; 10 characterized by • an auxiliary heating element which is arranged in the container for heating the fluid in the container, wherein said auxiliary heating element is disposed in a portion of the bottom of the container and is operative to heat a quantity 15 of fluid that it is not necessarily enough to cover the first heating element. The apparatus according to claim 1 and further comprising a plurality of detectors feeding • data concerning at least one of a temperature and a 20 fluid level of the fluid in the container to a controller, said controller that controls the activation of the first and auxiliary heating elements in response to the data. 3. The apparatus according to claim 1 and further comprising a temperature sensor mounted on said 25 auxiliary heating element. t-Li¿á-i. .-- í.l '' - »'- J¿ ^,:. r .., - ¿-afc _-_ ¿*.-_- £ -. £ 4 An appliance for cleaning or thawing a window of vehicle, comprising a reservoir for containing a washing fluid therein; a container having an inlet through which the washing fluid is received from the reservoir and an outlet through which the fluid is discharged; a spray head in fluid communication with the outlet through which the fluid is sprayed onto a vehicle window; and a heating element disposed in the container for heating the fluid in said container; characterized by a temperature sensor mounted in proximity to said spray head, said temperature sensor being in communication with a controller that controls the heating of said heating element in response to a temperature detected by said temperature sensor. 5. An apparatus for cleaning or thawing a vehicle window, comprising: a tank for holding a washing fluid therein; a container having an inlet through which the washing fluid is received from the reservoir and an outlet through which the fluid is discharged; a spray head in fluid communication with the outlet through which the fluid is sprayed onto a vehicle window; * > ' 66 a heating element disposed in the container for heating the fluid in said container; w characterized by 5 a wind speed detector in communication with a controller, wherein said controller correlates a wind speed detected by said wind speed detector to a fluid temperature sprayed from the spray head, and controls the heating of the wind speed sensor. said heating element in response to the wind speed detected by said detector • wind speed. The apparatus according to claim 5 and further comprising a vehicle speed detector, wherein said controller also correlates a vehicle speed detected by said vehicle speed detector with a fluid temperature sprayed from the head of vehicle. spraying, and controls the heating of said heating element in response to the detected speed of the vehicle by said vehicle speed detector. 7. An apparatus for cleaning or thawing a vehicle window, comprising: a tank for containing a washing fluid therein; a container having an inlet through which the wash fluid is received from the tank and an outlet through which the fluid is discharged to clean a vehicle window; Y a first heating element disposed in the container for heating the fluid in the container; characterized by a pumping system in fluid communication with said reservoir and said container which selectively pumps fluid from said reservoir to said container and drains said fluid from said container back to said reservoir. 8. The apparatus according to claim 7 and wherein said pumping system comprises at least one solenoid in 10 fluid communication with said tank and said container and • interchangeable from a position to a second position position, wherein in said first position at least one solenoid allows the flow of said deposit to said container and substantially prevents drainage of said fluid from said 15 container back to said tank, and wherein in said second position said at least one solenoid allows the draining of said fluid from said container back to said tank and substantially prevents the flow from said tank to said tank. • said container. 9. The apparatus according to claim 7 and wherein said pumping system comprises a reversible pump which in a first operating orientation pumps said fluid from said tank to said container and in a second operating direction pumps said fluid from said tank. said return container 25 to said deposit. The apparatus according to claim 9 and wherein said reversible pump comprises a gear pump 1 1. An apparatus for cleaning or thawing a window of • vehicle, comprising: a tank for containing a washing fluid therein; a container having an inlet through which the wash fluid is received from the tank and an outlet through which the fluid is discharged to clean a vehicle window; and a spray head in fluid communication with the output 10 through which the fluid is sprayed over a window of • vehicle; a windshield wiper to clean said window; and characterized by said spray head comprising a spray head with multiple outlets comprising a plurality of spray outlets. 12. The apparatus according to claim 1 1 and further comprising a controller that controls a pattern of • spraying said plurality of outputs. 13. The apparatus according to claim 12 and further comprising a detector for detecting an angular position of said windshield wiper, wherein said controller controls the spray pattern of said plurality of outputs according to the angular position of said windshield wiper. windshield wiper. 14. The apparatus according to claim 1 1 and * 69 further comprises a cam mounted on the windshield wiper said cam which selectively opens said outlets to allow the flow of said liquid through them. The apparatus according to claim 12 and 5 further comprises a motor that drives the windshield wiper and a detector for detecting a torque of said motor, wherein said controller controls the spray pattern of said plurality of outputs in accordance with the torque of said motor 10. The apparatus according to claim 1 and wherein said windshield wiper cleans said window between two travel limits, and said windshield wiper can be placed in a summer parking mode and a winter parking mode, wherein in such summer parking mode, Said cleaner is generally at rest in one of the travel limits, and wherein in said winter parking mode, said cleaner is between said travel limits. 17. An apparatus for cleaning or thawing a vehicle window, comprising a reservoir for holding a lavage fluid therein; a container having an inlet through which the washing fluid is received from the reservoir and an outlet through which the fluid is discharged; a spray head in fluid communication with the output 25 through which the fluid is sprayed on a window of Ü... ** ** ** «« «« «4 4 - - - - - - - - - - - veh veh veh veh veh veh veh veh veh veh veh veh veh veh ty ty ty ty ty ty ty ty ty ty ty ty ty ty ty ty ty ty ty ty ty ty ty, clean said window; and characterized by said windshield wiper having a perforation 5 longitudinally formed therethrough for flow of the fluid therethrough, wherein said perforation communicates as a fluid with a plurality of outlet holes formed in said cleaner to apply the fluid in said window. 18. The apparatus according to claim 1 and wherein the fluid enters said bore at one end of said • Cleaner and an opposite end of said cleaner is substantially sealed. 19. An apparatus for cleaning or de-icing a vehicle window, comprising: a reservoir for holding a lavage fluid therein; a container having an inlet through which the wash fluid is received from the tank and an outlet through which the fluid is discharged to clean a vehicle window; Y • characterized by 20 further comprising a cartridge that delivers an additive to the fluid before discharging the fluid. 20. The apparatus according to claim 19 and wherein said cartridge comprises a solid block of said additive. twenty-one . The apparatus according to claim 19 and wherein said cartridge is accommodated in an apertured fastener which is I? -UI ----- I. . ... JÍU.-L seals by a plug, said plug comprising a threaded neck and a neck portion formed with a plurality of holes from one side to the other, said holes being in fluid communication with a perforation that is in turn in fluid communication with said fastener with openings, and wherein said threaded neck can be screwed to a container through which the fluid can flow into the container, wherein the additive is mixed with the fluid as the fluid flows through the container. of said container. 22. An apparatus for cleaning or thawing a vehicle window, comprising: a container for holding a washing fluid therein; a container having an inlet through which the wash fluid is received from the tank and an outlet through which the fluid is discharged to clean a vehicle window; and characterized in that it further comprises a fluid authorization system for verifying the use of an authorized fluid. The apparatus according to claim 22 and wherein said fluid authorization system comprises a membrane constructed of a material that disintegrates if it is not in the presence of a fluid authorized for use. 24. An apparatus for cleaning or thawing a vehicle window, comprising: a reservoir for holding a lavage fluid therein; ti ---- l, -t-l "t -a" * - * I -. títiáiáiliMm Hz ... - * U .... Í ,,? Ü? tSht, -.-. t 72 a container having an inlet through which the washing fluid is received from the reservoir and an outlet through which the fluid is discharged to clean a vehicle window; and characterized by further comprising at least one tube in fluid communication with the fluid and a solenoid which selectively seals and seals said at least one tube to prevent passage of fluid therethrough and selectively allows fluid flow. through it. 25. A solenoid comprising: a tube receiving member; at least one tube passing through said tube receiving member; an arrow arranged for generally linear movement with 15 relation to said tube receiving member, said arrow which selectively presses and seals said at least one tube against said tube receiving member to prevent the passage of fluid therethrough, and which selectively moves away from said at least one tube to allow the flow of fluid therethrough; and an electromagnetic apparatus that moves said arrow generally linearly. 26. The solenoid according to claim 25, wherein said at least one tube has a circular cross section. 27. The solenoid according to claim 25, in - ^ «e- ^ J ^ .and iyyyyy ^ Má .. wherein said at least one tube has a non-circular cross section. 28. The solenoid according to claim 25 and comprising two said tubes and wherein said apparatus 5 electromagnetically moves said arrow to a position so that fluid can pass through both of said tubes. The solenoid according to claim 25, wherein said at least one tube has a resilience such that when said at least one tube returns from a state 10 compressed to an uncompressed state, said at least one tube • Applies to a force on said arrow to aid in the generally linear movement of said arrow. 30. The apparatus according to claim 4 and further comprising an apparatus for preventing damage due to 15 freezing of the fluid. 31 The apparatus according to claim 30 wherein said apparatus for preventing damage comprises a platform arranged to slide in said container, said platform being operative to slide due to a force of said fluid that 20 presses against it and during the freezing of said fluid. 32. The apparatus according to claim 30 wherein said apparatus for preventing damage comprises a lid attached to said container and which is operative to move away from said container. 25 due to a force of said fluid that presses against it during the freezing of said fluid 33. The apparatus according to claim 4 further comprising an apparatus for cutting off the electrical supply to said heating element. • The apparatus according to claim 33 wherein said apparatus for cutting the electrical supply comprises a fuse electrically connected to said heating element. 35. The apparatus according to claim 34 wherein said fuse is internal to said container and is in contact with said container. • said washing fluid in said container. 36. The apparatus according to claim 34 wherein said fuse comprises a body to which a lid portion is welded in a welded connection, said lid portion being 15 inclined by means of a tilting device, said fuse being electrically connected with said heating element through said welded connection, wherein upon reaching a predetermined temperature, said welded connection is weakened • due to at least the partial merger thereof, and said The tilting device pushes said lid portion out of said body, whereby a rupture in electrical supply to said heating element is caused. 37. The apparatus according to claim 34 wherein said fuse is mounted on a base that is sealed with 25 with respect to said container by means of a terminal cap that * 75 presses said base against an O-ring mounted on said container. 38. The apparatus according to claim 33 wherein said apparatus for cutting the power supply comprises a 5 fuse which is physically internal to and electrically connected to said heating element. 39. The apparatus according to claim 33 wherein said apparatus for cutting the power supply comprises a first FET in electrical communication with said controller, a 10 external fuse to said container and operatively connected to • said first FET, a second FET operatively connected to said fuse, said second FET in communication with at least one of said temperature detector, a thermostat mounted on said container, and logic circuits in electrical communication with 15 said second FET. 40. The apparatus according to claim 39, wherein if no command signal is sent to said first FET from said controller, said first FET is opened and said • heating is not energized. 41. The apparatus according to claim 39 wherein if a command signal is sent to said first FET from said controller, said first FET is closed and said heating element is energized. 42. The apparatus according to claim 39 wherein if 25 no command signal is sent to said first FET from said controller, but there is a voltage drop close to zero through said first FET, then said second FET is commanded to close, whereby a current is sent through said fuse which breaks said fuse and disconnects the power supply for said heating element. 43. The apparatus according to claim 39 wherein if command signal is sent to said first FET from said controller, but there is a voltage drop generally greater than zero through said first FET, said apparatus for cleaning or deheating a Vehicle window is ordered to close. 44. The apparatus according to claim 4 and further comprising a solenoid in direct electrical communication with a printed circuit board (PCB) of control circuit mounted on said container, said solenoid which determines whether said fluid flows directly to said head spraying or flowing to said spray head via said container. 45. The apparatus according to claim 44 wherein said solenoid is attached to said PCB. 46. The apparatus according to claim 44 wherein said PCB can be selectively connected to a vehicle computer, wherein the operation of said solenoid and said apparatus for cleaning or defrosting a vehicle window is controllable by means of at least one of said PCB and said vehicle computer. 47. The apparatus according to claim 7 wherein said pumping system comprises a third operative orientation wherein said pumping system is stopped while the fluid is still flowing towards said container, and only after a delay, the fluid is re-routed from one direction towards said container to a far direction of said container.
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US09187654 | 1998-11-06 |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| MXPA01004617A true MXPA01004617A (en) | 2003-02-17 |
Family
ID=
Similar Documents
| Publication | Publication Date | Title |
|---|---|---|
| CA2350040C (en) | Apparatus for cleaning or de-icing a vehicle window | |
| US6669109B2 (en) | Apparatus for cleaning or de-icing a vehicle window | |
| CA2294103C (en) | Windshield de-icing | |
| EP1667800B1 (en) | Vehicle windshield cleaning system | |
| EP1857338B1 (en) | Windshield de-icing | |
| CA2625146A1 (en) | Vehicle surface cleaning and de-icing | |
| RU2228864C2 (en) | Device for and method of cleaning windshield from ice | |
| MXPA01004617A (en) | Apparatus for cleaning or de-icing a vehicle window | |
| KR200272689Y1 (en) | System for jetting washing liquid for a car | |
| KR100434773B1 (en) | System for jetting washing liquid for a car | |
| EP1498330A2 (en) | Windshield de-icing | |
| CA2565312C (en) | Windshield de-icing |