WO1998046373A1

WO1998046373A1 - Computer controlled, multi-bay ultrasonic golf club cleaning machine

Info

Publication number: WO1998046373A1
Application number: PCT/US1998/008059
Authority: WO
Inventors: Sidney Blumenthal Steiner
Original assignee: Clean Clubs Corporation
Priority date: 1997-04-15
Filing date: 1998-04-15
Publication date: 1998-10-22
Also published as: AU7145798A

Abstract

Apparatus for and method of cleaning golf clubs (including grips and clubs using an ultrasonic golf club cleaning machine (100) including four bays (7) to allow a complete foursome to clean the clubs simultaneously while they are waiting for their turn to play golf.

Description

TITLE OF THE INVENTION

"COMPUTER CONTROLLED, MULTI-BAY ULTRASONIC GOLF CLUB CLEANING MACHINE"

INVENTOR: Sidney B. Steiner, a U.S. citizen, of New Orleans, Louisiana CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

Priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 60/042,313, filed 15 April 1997, incorporated herein by reference, is hereby claimed. STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not applicable REFERENCE TO A "MICROFICHE APPENDIX"

Not applicable BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to golf club cleaning machines. More particularly, the present invention relates to ultrasonic golf club cleaning machines.

2. General Background of the Invention

Typical golf club cleaning machines contain a single bay, allowing only one set of clubs to be cleaned at a time.

The following U.S. Patents are incorporated herein by reference: U.S. Patent Nos.: 5,141,009; 3,709,732; 3,101,089; 5,385,160; 5,168,888; 4,757,831; 4,951,339; 5,224,233.

U.S. Patent No. 5,385,160 discloses a cabinet to accept golf club or clubs to be cleaned by ultrasonic vibration of a fluid.

U.S. Patent No. 5,141,009 discloses an ultrasonic golf club cleaning cabinet.

U.S. Patent No. 3,101,089 discloses an ultrasonic golf club cleaning machine for cleaning multiple clubs.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The apparatus of the present invention solves the problems confronted in the art in a simple and straightforwardmanner. What is provided is an apparatus for and method of cleaning golf clubs (grips and club heads) using a computer-controlledultrasonic golf club cleaning machine including four bays to allow a complete foursome to clean the clubs simultaneously while they are waiting for their turn to play golf or after they have played. The apparatus is preferably computer controlled.

The present invention includes (preferably computer controlled) apparatus for cleaning golf equipment including multiple (preferably four) bays for containing water and chemical cleaning agents; ultrasonic equipment for ultrasonically agitating devices placed in the bays; heating means for heating water in the bays; and activating means for activating the ultrasonic equipment.

Preferably, the invention also includes means for determining a proper temperature for the bays, a ready light which comes on when all bays that can be operated are at a proper temperature, and means for rejecting tokens when the ready light is not on. The invention can also include computer controlled means for determining the next available bay and for starting a lighted button above the bay to flash. Preferably, the invention includes computer controlled means for constantly maintaining the bays at a full level with water and chemical.

Preferably, the invention also includes computer controlled means for automatically filling and draining the bays in response to a key switch. It can also be set to be automatically turned on in the morning and turned off in the evening at pre-set times. The invention can also include computer means for automatically taking a defective bay out of service and eliminating the possibility of a token turning on this bay or a green light above it. Preferably, each bay is of a sufficient size to hold a full set of golf clubs. Preferably, all bays can run simultaneously. Preferably, there are control means for operating the bays independently of one another, such as for example turning on and shutting off the bays independently of one another. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

For a further understanding of the nature, objects, and advantages of the present invention, reference should be had to the following detailed description, read in conjunction with the following drawings, wherein like reference numerals denote like elements and wherein: Figure 1 is a front view of the preferred embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention;

Figure 2 is a top view of the preferred embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention; Figure 3 A is a left side view of the preferred embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention; Figure 3B is a right side view of the preferred embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention;

Figure 4 is a rear view of the preferred embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention; Figure 5 is a front view of the preferred embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention with the front doors removed;

Figure 6 A is a left side view of the preferred embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention with the side panel removed; Figure 6B is a right side view of the preferred embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention with the side panel removed;

Figure 7 is a rear view of the preferred embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention with the doors removed;

Figure 8A is a rear view of the chemical container of the preferred embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention;

Figure 8B is a view of the left side of the chemical container of the preferred embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention (the right side is a mirror image of the left side);

Figure 8C is a front view of the chemical container of the preferred embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention; Figure 8D is a top view of the chemical container of the preferred embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention;

Figure 9 A is a front view of the token box of the preferred embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention;

Figure 9B is a left side view of the token box of the preferred embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention (the right side is a mirror image of the left side);

Figure 9C is a top view of the token box of the preferred embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention;

Figure 10A is a side view of the lid closure device of the preferred embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention, showing the lid in the closed position; Figure 1 OB is a side view of the lid closure device of the preferred embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention, showing the lid in the open position;

Figure 11 A is a front view of the modular bay of the preferred embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention;

Figure 1 IB is a top view of the modular bay of the preferred embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention;

Figure 1 1C is a side view of the modular bay of the preferred embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention; Figure 12A is a top view of the bay of the preferred embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention, with the tank removed;

Figure 12B is a front view of the bay of the preferred embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention; Figure 12C is a side, partially cut-away view of the bay of the preferred embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention;

Figure 13 is a bottom view of the tank of an alternative embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention;

Figure 14 is a bottom view of the tank of the preferred embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention;

Figure 15 is a top view of the plumbing module of the preferred embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention;

Figure 16A is a front view of a hold-down device of the preferred embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention; Figure 16B is a side view of a hold-down device of the preferred embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention;

Figure 17 A is a front view of a bracket of the preferred embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention;

Figure 17B is a top view of a bracket of the preferred embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention;

Figure 18 A is a front view of a leveling device of the preferred embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention;

Figure 18B is a left side view of the leveling device of the preferred embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention; and Figure 18C is a top view of the leveling device of the preferred embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

A DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF HOW THE MULTI-BAY, DUAL MICROPROCESSOR (COMPUTER) CONTROLLED ULTRASONIC GOLF CLUB CLEANER OF THE PRESENT INVENTION WORKS

The multi-bay, dual microprocessor (computer) controlled ultrasonic golf club cleaner of the present invention enables a complete foursome (four golfers) to clean their entire sets of golf clubs simultaneously in four independent ultrasonic cleaning bays.

In operation, The unit 100 is plugged into a standard 120 volt/15 amp electric receptacle 11 (see Fig. 7), connected to water 3a, connected to a drain 3b and into a dedicated phone line 15. The unit is turned on, either automatically by the microprocessors (computers) 8/system interface boards 30 (Fig. 7) or manually 17c (Fig. 6B) by the golf facility.

There are two microprocessors (computers) 8/system interface boards 30 (Fig. 7), each microprocessors (computer) 8/system interface board 30 controlling two modular bays 7 (Fig. 2).

The token taker 9 (Fig. 2), the soap reservoir 4a (Fig. 7), the READY light 13 (Fig. 1), the electrical power connection 11 (Figs. 4, 7), the inlet water connection 3a (Figs. 4, 7), the drain 3b (Figs. 4, 7) and the modem dedicated telephone line 15 are shared by both microprocessors (computers) 8/system interface boards 30.

Only a failure of the main electrical power 11, an extended failure of the water supply 3a, failure of the token taker 9, a low chemical reservoir 4a, or failure of both microprocessors (computers) 8/system interface boards 30 will disable the entire unit.

Once the unit is turned on, the microprocessors (computers) 8/system interface boards 30 begin the fill cycle by opening the fill solenoid 3d (Fig. 15), allowing the unit 100 to accept water.

The unit begins to fill with water. All four bays 7 and the leveling device 3e (Figs. 18 A and 18B) fill at the same time. As the unit 100 fills with water, the microprocessors (computers) 8/system interface boards 30 will signal the light/buttons illuminated push buttons 14 (Fig. 1) to blink in a scrolling sequence from right to left.

The water passes through the chemical injectors 3f (Fig. 15) which inject a preset amount of an ultrasonic cleaning chemical (commercially available from Intercon) from the chemical reservoir into the water as the water is filling each bay 7 and the leveling device 3e. If there is a low level of chemical in the chemical reservoir 4a, the microprocessors (computers) 8/system interface boards 30 will stop the filling of the unit and indicate the failed condition.

As bays 7 fill past the minimum operating level an electronic detector 3g (Fig. 18A) on each of the leveling devices 3e signals the microprocessors (computers) 8/system interface boards 30 which turns on the heater bands 7e (Fig. 11 A) on the bays 7 to begin heating the water/chemical solution.

When the predetermined maximum water level is reached the high level electronic detector 3t (Figs. 18 A, 18B, 18C) on each of the leveling devices 3e signals the microprocessors (computers) 8/system interface boards 30 to close the fill solenoids 3d.

The "READY" light 13 (Fig. 1) is turned on by the microprocessors (computers) 8/system interface boards 30 once any single bay 7 is filled with water and the temperature in that bay 7 has reached a predetermined minimum temperature. The temperature sensor 7x (Fig. 11 A) signals the microprocessors (computers) 8/system interface boards 30 when the minimum temperature level has been reached. The sensor 7x on the bay 7 signals the microprocessors (computers) 8/system interface boards 30 to shut off the heater strap 7e when the temperature reaches the predetermined maximum temperature. A fail/safe cut out 7y (Fig. 11 A) on each bay will shut off the heater band 7e at a predetermined maximum temperature if the temperature sensor 7x fails. The microprocessors (computers) 8/system interface boards 30 will make available for use only those bays 7 that meet these criteria.

Instructions/Warnings 18 (Fig. 1) are above each bay 7 and next to each light/button (illuminated push button) 14 guiding golfers through the operation of the unit 100. These instructions will indicate that each of the following will be indicated/marked on the unit 100 by the following numbers:

"READY" light 13 will be indicated with a #1 ; Token Slot/Taker 9 will be indicated with a #2; and Light Buttons (illuminated push buttons) 14 will be indicated with a #3. The golfer inserts a token into the token slot taker 9 (Figs. 2, 3A, 3B).

The preprogrammed token slot/taker 9 is controlled by the microprocessors (computers) 8/system interface boards 30 to accept the token only when the READY light 13 is on.

Only a token of a preset thickness, diameter and weight will be accepted by the token slot/taker 9. If the unit is not in the "READY" mode (at least one bay 7 available for cleaning) the

"READY" light 13 will not be on and the microprocessors (computers) 8/system interface boards 30 will signal the token slot/taker 9 to return the token to the golfer through the token return slot 10 (Figs. 3A and 3B).

Once a token has been accepted, the microprocessors (computers) 8/system interface boards 30 will have one of the four light/buttons (illuminated push buttons) 14 begin to blink and the chime 21 (Fig. 7) will sound once indicating that this is the bay 7 to be used. At the same time, the microprocessors (computers) 8/system interface boards 30 will signal the lid device 7c (Fig. 2) to release the lid 7b enabling the golfer to open the lid 7b. Each lid device 7c keeps that lid 7b closed until they have been indicated for use by the microprocessors (computers) 8/system interface boards 30.

The microprocessors (computers) 8/system interface boards 30 rotate through the available bays 7 enabling bays 7 sequentially to prevent excessive use of one bay 7.

If a bay 7 is not operable, the microprocessors (computers) 8/system interface boards 30 will skip over this bay 7.

A bay 7 is not operable if water temperature is not within a preset range. A bay 7 is not operable if the transducer array 7f (Fig. 11A) is not functioning properly. Either of these will make a bay 7 unavailable.

The golfer places all clubs into the tank 7a (Fig. 11 A) and places the opposite end of each club into the brackets 7d (Figs. 1, 2) above the bay 7.

If cleaning grips and club heads, the grips are placed into the bay 7 first with the club heads/shafts inside the bracket 7d. The golfer presses the blinking light/button (illuminated push button) 14 above that bay

7.

The microprocessors (computers) 8/system interface boards 30 will keep the light/button (illuminated push button) 14 glowing continually but will stop it from blinking.

The microprocessors (computers) 8/system interface boards 30 will start the cleaning process in this bay 7 by turning on the transducer array 7f.

The bay 7 will clean for approximately 15 to 20 seconds. The bay 7 will be turned off by the microprocessors (computers) 8/system interface boards 30. The microprocessors (computers) 8/system interface boards 30 will signal the light/button (illuminated push button) 14 to blink and the chime 21 to sound twice. If cleaning grips, the golfer will take the grips out of the tank 7a, place the club heads in the tank 7a with the grips/shafts inside the bracket 7d. The golfer may begin to dry the grips.

If cleaning club heads only, the golfer does nothing at this time.

After 20 seconds of pause, the microprocessors (computers) 8/system interface boards 30 will start the cleaning process again in this bay 7, and will switch the light/button (illuminated push button) 14 from the blinking mode to the continuously on mode and the chime 21 will sound once.

After the cleaning process is complete (the time is preset by the microprocessors (computers) 8/system interface boards 30), the microprocessors (computers) 8/system interface boards 30 will turn off the bay 7, turn off the light/button (illuminated push button) 14 , sound the chime 21 three times and enable the lid 7b to be released by the lid device 7c (after approximately one minute) and closed after the clubs have been removed from the tank 7a and the bracket 7d.

As the level of water is lowered in each tank 7a from use, evaporation and/or splashing, the microprocessors (computers) 8/system interface boards 30 will be signaled by an electronic detector 3g on the leveling device 3e to automatically fill the tanks 7a back up to their desired level with chemical being automatically injected by the chemical injector 3f into this water as it is filling the tanks 7a.

At the end of the day, or whenever the unit 100 is turned to the drain mode, either automatically by the microprocessors (computers) 8/system interface boards 30 or manually 17c by the golf facility, the following is controlled by the microprocessors (computers) 8/system interface boards 30: the READY light 13 is turned off; the fill solenoids 3d remain inhibited (closed); the drain valves 3h one valve for each 2 bays are opened; each bay 7 and the leveling device 3e are completely drained; as draining is taking place the light buttons (illuminated push buttons) 14 will be signaled by microprocessors (computers) 8/system interface boards 30 to blink in a scrolling sequence (from left to right).

After the draining cycle is complete the unit 100 is shut off by the microprocessors (computers) 8/system interface boards 30.

If the unit 100 is to be moved, the unit 100 is disconnected from power 11, water 3a and telephone connections 15, and either towed by golf cart or pushed manually to a storage facility.

The modem 15 in the unit is operable at any time the unit is corrected to power and a telephone line. The microprocessors (computers) 8/system interface boards 30 will signal the modem 15 to dial a preset telephone number whenever a failure (this includes a failure of any one bay 7), low chemical and or loss of one microprocessor (computer) 8/system interface board 30 is detected. The microprocessors (computers) 8/system interface boards 30 will send a message to this preset telephone number indicating that there is a problem with this particular unit. CLEAN CLUBS CORPORATION will be able to dial into the modem 15 at any time to run a diagnostic check as well as query the internal counter to get a reading on the number of times the unit was used. This will enable CLEAN CLUBS CORPORATION to bill the golf facility without having to be present on site or depend on the golf facility to take a reading.

A DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE MULTI-BAY, DUAL MICROPROCESSOR (COMPUTER) CONTROLLED ULTRASONIC GOLF CLUB CLEANER OF THE PRESENT INVENTION 1.5 Lower Section A

The deck 1, made entirely of stainless steel, houses 4 modular bays 7 as described below. Doors 2 - There are two front doors 2a (Fig. 1) and two rear doors 2b (Fig. 4). These doors are interchangeable with each other and with the two upper section rear doors 17a (Fig. 4). There are two side doors 2c (Fig. 3A) and 2d (Fig. 3B), one on each side.

10 The plumbing module 3 has an incoming hose connection 3a (Fig.4) for connecting a water hose from the water supply and an outgoing connection 3b (Fig.4) for a drain hose to lead to a drain. The plumbing inlet leads into a pressure regulating valve 3z (Fig. 15) with a pressure test port 3x and then splits into dual modular sections 3c each being controlled by a solenoid-controlled fill valve 3d. The purpose of the pressure regulating valve 3z is to maintain constant water pressure to the

15 chemical injectors when filling the tanks. Each section feeds two bays 7 (Fig. 2) and a leveling device 3e (Figs. 18A and 18B). Each section feeds directly through chemical injectors 3f (Fig. 15) which are connected by tubing from the chemical container 4a (Fig. 6B) that sits in the chemical drawer 4. As water flows through the chemical injectors 3f, each of the four bays 7 and the leveling devices 3e begin to fill with a preset ratio of water and chemical solution (the ratio may vary from

20 location to location depending upon water quality and chemical solution - probably the ratio will be 7-15 cc of chemical solution per liter of water, though more or less may be used). When the leveling devices 3e reach their upper limit an electronic detector 3t (Figs. 18 A, 18B, 18C) signals the microprocessors (computers) 8/system interface boards 30 which, in turn, signal the solenoid controlled valve 3d (Fig. 15) to close. Excess water/chemical solution is discharged through an

25 overflow vent 3s (Figs. 18A, 18B, 18C) on each leveling device 3e. As water is used throughoutthe day, either through evaporation, splashing or just general usage and the level moves below a preset specified level, a second electronic detector 3g on the leveling device 3e will signal the microprocessor (computer) 8/system interface board 30/system interface board 30 to open the solenoid controlled valve 3d (Fig. 15) and allow the bays 7 and the leveling devices 3e to fill back

30 to the proper upper level. Each section of the plumbing module has a drain valve 3h which is controlled by the microprocessors (computers) 8/system interface boards 30. The chemical drawer 4 (Fig. 6B) which is on the right side (facing the unit 100 from the front) is behind a door 2d (Fig. 3B) on the rear right side of the unit. When this door 2d is open, the chemical drawer 4 may be pulled out, allowing the chemical container 4a to be opened and filled outside of the unit 100. Two spare one gallon (3.8 liter) chemical containers can fit between the beginning of the drawer 4 and the beginning edge of the chemical container 4a. The chemical container 4a can hold approximately five gallons (19 liters) of a cleaning chemical for ultrasonic cleaning of golf clubs. The chemical container 4a has a fill opening 4b in the top, a feed/drain port 4c (Fig. 8D) in the bottom of the rear and a sight tube 4d in the front. An electronic sensor 4e (Figs. 8B, 8C, and 8D) connectednear the bottom of the sight tube signals the microprocessors (computers) 8/system interface boards 30 when there is an insufficient amount of chemical in the chemical container 4a. The electronic sensor 4e can be the same type of sensor as electronic detector 3t (Figs. 18A, 18B, 18C).

The token box 5 (Fig. 5) is on the left side (facing the unit 100 from the front) behind the door 2c to the rear of the left side. The token box 5 has its own separate lock. This allows only the golf facility and CLEAN CLUBS CORPORATION access to opening the token box 5. The token box 5 is fed by a chute 5a directly from the token slot/taker 9 into the top of the token box 5.

There are four wheels on this unit, two swiveling 6 (Fig. 1) and two stationary 6a that will allow the unit to be pushed or towed into place to operate and/or into storage.

Each modular bay 7 consists of the following: a stainless steel tank 7a (Figs. 11A, 1 IB, 1 1 C; a lid 7b (Fig. 11 A) for the stainless steel tank 7a; a lid device 7c (Figs. 17A and 17B) which is controlled by the microprocessor (computer) 8/system interface board 30 to keep the lid 7b in the closed position until a token has been put into the machine 100 and that particular bay 7 has been signaled to operate. At that point in time, the lid 7b may be opened by the user and will be held in the open position until the cleaning cycle has finished and the golfer has removed all of the clubs. A bracket 7d (Figs. 1, 17A, 17B) above the bay 7 enables the golfer to place the opposite ends of the clubs from those that are being cleaned inside the bracket 7d to keep them from falling or leaning into the other areas where other bays 7 are operating and/or into the face of the golfer using that bay 7. A bracket 7d has a section 7p (Figs. 1, 17A, 17B) in the front of the bracket 7d that the golfer swivels out of the way to allow easy access to the bay 7 for the placing or removing of clubs. This section 7p is swiveled into the closed position, prior to cleaning, to insure that all clubs stay within the bracket during cleaning.

A heater band 7e (Fig. 11 A) around the bottom portion of the tank 7a is a means to heat the water/chemical solution in the tank 7a. There is a temperature sensor 7x on each bay 7. The temperature sensor 7x signals the microprocessor (computer) 8/system interface board 30/system interface board 30 when the minimum operating temperature level of the water/chemical solution in the bay 7 has been reached. The temperature sensor 7x also signals the microprocessor (computer) 8/system interface board 30 when the maximum operating temperature of the water/chemical solution in the bay 7 has been reached. There is also a fail/safe cut out 7y on each bay 7 which will shut off the heater bands 7e when the maximum temperature has been reached and the maximum temperature sensor 7x fails.

A transducer array consisting of 8 to 9 transducers 7f positioned around the bottom of the tank 7a to create the ultrasonic energy.

An isolation valve 7g enables a bay 7 to be serviced at any time even while the other bays 7 are operating.

The modular interface board 7i (Figs. 12A, 12C) connects the bay 7 to electrical power and the microprocessor (computer) 8/system interface board 30 and controls the heater strip 7e, the cooling fan 7j (Fig. 12 A) and the electronic circuit driver board 7h (Fig. 12C) which drives the transducer array 7f. The cooling fan 7j to keep all of the electronics from overheating. A (computer) cable 7k (Figs. 12A, 12B) leads from the bay 7 to the system interface board 30 that with the microprocessor (computer) 8 controls that bay 7.

A power cord 71 leads to a dedicated GFI protected power source 12 for that particular bay 7.

A cabinet 7m (Fig. 5) encloses the entire bay from the top of the tank 7a down to the piping 7g that connects to the plumbing module 3 (Fig. 15).

Each cabinet 7m has hooks 7n on either side of the cabinet 7m providing for the entire bay 7 to be held down in place inside of the unit by hold down devices 22. Each cabinet has a red light 7o (Figs. 12 A, 12B) on the front which when "on" indicates that this bay 7 has a problem, is not available for use, and service should be called.

Each modular bay 7 can be removed from the unit 100 (even during operation of the unit) by disconnecting the power cord 71, the (computer) cable 7k, draining the water from that particular bay 7, disconnecting the plumbing module 3 from that particular bay 7, and releasing the hold down devices 22 from the hooks 7n on the cabinet 7m. II. Upper Section

There are two system interface boards 30, one a master and one a slave. The two system interface boards 30 work with the two microprocessor (computers) 8 to control the entire operation of the unit.

There are two redundant microprocessors (computers) 8/system interface boards 30 that will control the operations of the four modular bays 7. Each microprocessor (computer) 8/system interface board 30 is responsible for controlling two bays 7 but will work redundantly in controlling the other operations of the unit.

The preprogrammed Token Slot Token Taker 9/Token Return Slot 10 setup is electronically controlled by the microprocessors (computers) 8/system interface boards 30 to reject tokens if the unit 100 is not in operation and READY. These tokens will be returned at the Token Return Slot 10 directly below the Token Slot/Token Taker 9 which is independently preprogrammed to accept only tokens that meet specific requirements relating to diameter, thickness and weight. All tokens that are accepted by the Token Slot/Token Taker 9 will automatically flow into the token box 5 in the lower section of the unit.

The unit 100 operates on 120 volts and all incoming power is fed into GFI outlets 12 into which all electrical components are connected. The electrical power connection 11 feeds the GFI receptacles 12 which feed the 6 amp circuit breaker 11a which in turn feeds the power supply terminal block lib, the 24 vac power supply lie and the 24 vdc power supply lid.

The READY light 13 is in the center at the top front portion of the unit where the Sign 19 is located. This READY light 13 is on when any bay 7 within the unit is ready to be used and off when no bays 7 are ready or all bays 7 are in use and/or unavailable.

There is a Light button illuminated push button 14 above each of the modular bays 7. These light buttons illuminated push buttons 14 indicate to a golfer in which bay a golfer is no place his or her clubs that are to be cleaned.

The unit 100 is equipped with a modem 15 for the purpose of having a dedicated phone line connected directly to this unit for querying and troubleshooting.

The unit is equipped with a chime 21 (Fig. 7) for the purpose of sounding to alert the golfers that the unit is ready to use, a bay 7 is ready for use, a bay 7 has paused cleaning and/or a bay 7 has finished cleaning.

Cooling fans (not shown) are placed in the unit 100 to cool all of the electronics in the upper section of the unit.

The two doors 17a (Fig. 4) on the rear of this upper section are the same size as and are interchangeable with the four doors 2a (Fig. 1) and 2b (Fig.4) that are on both the front and rear of the lower section of the unit. There is one small door 17b (Fig.3B) near the bottom of the right side facing the unit from the front of this upper section. Behind this door is a lighted switch 17c (Fig. 6B) that allows manual signaling to the microprocessors (computers) 8/ system interface boards 30 to begin filling and/or draining the unit 100. This lighted switch 17c also will flash indicating a failure. This lighted switch 17c allows the microprocessors (computers) 8/ system interface boards 30 to be reset and enable a bay 7 that was out of service due to a failure but that is now ready to be back in service.

Next to each light button illuminated push button 14 above each modular bay 7 are Instructions/Warninglnformation 18 (Fig. 1) which includes specific instructions on how to use the unit as well as any necessary and/or required warnings.

At the top front portion of the upper section is a sign 19 approximately 72 inches (1.83 m) x 12 inches (30 cm). This sign states what the unit is and for what it is to be used.

There is an attachment 20 that goes on the top of the unit. This is utilized for advertising purposes. It can be approximately 72 inches (1.83 m) in length and up to approximately 36 inches (91 cm) in height, for example.

EXEMPLARY DIMENSIONS OF THE MULTI-BAY, DUAL MICROPROCESSOR (COMPUTER) CONTROLLED ULTRASONIC GOLF CLUB CLEANER OF THE PRESENT INVENTION THE COMPLETE UNIT Height - 48 inches (1.22 m) (The advertising section 20 will add 24 inches

(61 cm) to 36 inches (91 cm) to the height)

Length - 72 inches (1.83 m) Depth- 33 inches (84 cm) The wheels 6 and 6a will add 2 inches to 6 inches (5 cm to 15 cm) in height. THE LOWER SECTION A

Height - 25 inches (63 cm) (This section is 25 inches (63 cm) high in the rear and 23 inches (58 cm) high in the front).

Length - 72 inches (1.83 m) Depth - 33 inches (84 cm) The wheels 6 and 6a will add 2 inches to 6 inches (5 cm to 15 cm) in height. DOORS 2

The front 2a and rear 2b doors are 31 inches (79 cm) long by 19 inches (48 cm) high.

The side doors 2c and 2d are 10 inches (25 cm) long by 15 5/8 inches (40 cm) high.

THE DECK 1 (This is actually the top portion of the lower section A and is where the 4 modular bays 7 are located.)

The rear section of deck 1 is 3 inches (8 cm) high by 72 (1.83 cm) long by 11 inches (28 cm) deep. The upper section B is attached to the lower section A at this point.

The front section of deck 1 is 22 inches (56 cm) deep by 72 inches (1.83 m) long and slopes forward from a height of 2 inches (5 cm) to a height of 1 inch (2.5 cm). The modular bays 7 are set 1.5 inches (4 cm) in from the each of sides of the deck 1 and .5

(1.3 cm) from the front of the deck 1.

The modular bays 7 are 4 inches (10 cm) apart between the 1st and 2nd bays 7and between the 3rd and 4th bays 7 and 5 inches (13 cm) apart between the second and third bays 7.

The deck 1 is actually a one-piece unit but is described in two sections for ease of description and dimension.

CHEMICAL CONTAINER 4a

Height - 12 inches (30 cm) Length - 14 inches (36 cm) Depth - 7 inches (18 cm) The fill opening 4b is 2 inches (5 cm) in diameter.

The feed/drain port 4c is 3/8 inch (1 cm) in diameter. The sight tube is 1/2 inch (1.3 cm) in diameter. TOKEN BOX 5

Height - 14 inches (36 cm) Length - 14 inches (36 cm)

Depth - 8 1/2 inches (22 cm) MODULAR BAYS 7

Height - 18.5 inches (47 cm) Length - 12 inches (30 cm) Depth - 15 inches (38 cm)

THE TANK 7a

The tank 7a is a round unit with a 9 inches to 10 inches (23 cm to 25 cm) diameter and a depth of 11 inches (28 cm) THE BRACKET 7d

The bracket 7d is 13 inches (33 cm) in height, 6 inches to 7inches wide (15 cm to 18 cm) and 7 inches to 9 inches (18 cm to 23 cm) deep. THE LID DEVICE 7c

The lid device 7c is 6 inches (15 cm) high by 3 inches (8 cm) long by 3 inches (8 cm) deep. THE UPPER SECTION B

Height - 23 inches (58 cm) Length - 72 inches ( 183 cm)

Depth - 11 inches (28 cm) at the base of the upper section up to a height of 1 1 inches (28 cm) and then tapering back to a depth of 7 inches (18 cm) at the top of the upper section DOORS 17 The rear doors 17a are 31 inches (79 cm) long by 19 inches (48 cm) high.

The side door 17b is 5 inches (13 cm) long by 8 inches (20 cm) high. Tables of suitable parts to make the present invention follow.

ASSEMBLY: Control Panel Master PN

ASSEMBLY: (7i)Module Interface Board PN 01.333.200.002

ASSEMBLY: (7l)Module Interface Board PN 01.333.200.002

ASSEMBLY: (7l)Module Interface Board PN 01.333.200.002

o

ASSEMBLY: (30)System Interface Board PN 01.333.200.001

ASSEMBLY: (30)System Interface Board

ASSEMBLY: (30)System Interface Board PN 01.333.200.001

ASSEMBLY: (7)Module Assembly PN

All measurements disclosed herein are at standard temperature and pressure, at sea level on Earth, unless indicated otherwise.

The foregoing embodiments are presented by way of example only; the scope of the present invention is to be limited only by the following claims.

Claims

1. Apparatus for cleaning golf equipment comprising: four bays for containing water and chemical cleaning agents; ultrasonic equipment for ultrasonically agitating devices placed in the bays; heating means for heating water in the bays; and activating means for activating the ultrasonic equipment.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: means for determining a proper temperature for the bays; a ready light which comes on when all bays that can be operated are at a proper temperature; and means for rejecting tokens when the ready light is not on.

3. The apparatus of claim 1 , including computer controlled means for determining the next available bay and for starting a lighted button above the bay to flash.

4. The apparatus of claim 1, including computer controlled means for constantly maintaining the four bays at a full level with water and chemical.

5. The apparatus of claim 1, including computer controlled means for automatically filling and draining the bays.

6. The apparatus of claim 1, including computer means for automatically taking a defective bay out of service and eliminating the possibility of a token turning on this bay or a green light above it.

7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein each bay is of a sufficient size to hold a full set of golf clubs.

8. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein all bays can run simultaneously.

9. The apparatus of claim 1, including control means for operating the bays independently of one another.

10. The apparatus of claim 1 , including control means for turning on and shutting off the bays independently of one another.

11. Computer controlled apparatus for cleaning golf equipment comprising: multiple bays for containing water and chemical cleaning agents; ultrasonic equipment for ultrasonically agitating devices placed in the bays; heating means for heating water in the bays; and activating means for activating the ultrasonic equipment.

12. The apparatus of claim 11, further comprising: means for determining a proper temperature for the bays; a ready light which comes on when all bays that can be operated are at a proper temperature; and means for rejecting tokens when the ready light is not on.

13. The apparatus of claim 11, including computer controlled means for determining the next available bay and for starting a lighted button above the bay to flash.

14. The apparatus of claim 11, including computer controlled means for constantly maintaining the bays at a full level with water and chemical.

15. The apparatus of claim 11 , including computer controlled means for automatically filling and draining the bays.

16. The apparatus of claim 11, including computer means for automatically taking a defective bay out of service and eliminating the possibility of a token turning on this bay or a green light above it.

17. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein each bay is of a sufficient size to hold a full set of golf clubs.

18. The apparatus of claim 11 , wherein all bays can run simultaneously.

19. The apparatus of claim 11, including control means for operating the bays independently of one another.

20. The apparatus of claim 11, including control means for turning on and shutting off the bays independently of one another.