Cleaning system

Abstract

A cleaning system for cleaning an inner surface of a container located on a vehicle, the cleaning system including an elongate cantilever with at least one nozzle at a first end thereof; a support assembly for supporting the cantilever, wherein the cantilever is movable relative to the support assembly; a controller configured to control the movement of the cantilever; and a vehicle identification system including an identification reader configured to identify the vehicle and communicate with the controller, wherein upon identifying the vehicle, one or more parameters of the vehicle can be stored on or retrieved from the vehicle identification system, and wherein the cantilever is configured to extend into the container to clean the inner surface based on the one or more parameters.

Description

Field of the Invention

[0001] The present invention relates to a cleaning system. In particular, the present invention relates to, but is not limited to, a cleaning system for cleaning the inner surface of a container such as a concrete mixing drum located on a vehicle. Background Art

[0002] References to background art herein are not to be construed as an admission that such art constitutes common general knowledge in Australia or elsewhere.

[0003] Vehicles for transporting ready-mixed concrete typically have a container in the form of a rotatable drum such that rotation of the drum mixes the concrete and / or prevents it from setting during transportation. During normal operation of the drum, residual concrete accumulates and hardens inside the drum. This residual hardened concrete reduces the capacity of the drum, increases the weight of the vehicle, and can reduce the efficiency of the drum in mixing and moving the concrete.

[0004] Known methods for removing hardened residual concrete include having workers use a hand drill to enter the drum to chop and break up the concrete from the inner surfaces of the drum and mixing vanes. This is a time-consuming task and is very dangerous for the workers, especially in such a confined space. Additionally, the inner surface of the drum and the vanes are likely to be damaged. To improve safety, a manually operated cleaning device that extends into the drum can be used. However, the efficiency and effectiveness of such cleaning methods depend on the skill and performance of the operator and thus often result in inconsistent or unsatisfactory results. Additionally, human error can lead to damage to the cleaning device and / or the inner surface of the tank, including any components located within the tank. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Object of the Invention

[0006] It is an object of the present invention to provide a cleaning system that overcomes or ameliorates one or more of the above disadvantages or problems, or at least provides a useful alternative.

[0007] Other preferred objects of the present invention will become apparent from the following description.

[0008] In one form, although not necessarily the only or broadest form, the present invention resides in a cleaning system for cleaning the inner surface of a container located on a vehicle, the cleaning system comprising:

[0009] An elongate cantilever with at least one nozzle located at a first end of the cantilever;

[0010] A support assembly for supporting the cantilever, wherein the cantilever is movable relative to the support assembly;

[0011] A controller configured to control the movement of the cantilever; and

[0012] A vehicle identification system including an identification reader configured to identify the vehicle and communicate with the controller,

[0013] wherein, when the vehicle is identified, one or more parameters of the vehicle can be stored on or retrieved from the vehicle identification system, and

[0014] wherein the cantilever is configured to extend into the container to clean the inner surface based on the one or more parameters.

[0015] Preferably, the cantilever has a plurality of nozzles at its first end. Preferably, the nozzles are located on a rotatable part at the first end of the cantilever. Preferably, the nozzles are in fluid communication with a fluid passage formed in the cantilever. Preferably, the fluid is water.

[0016] Preferably, the cantilever has a connector at its second end. Preferably, the connector is fluidly connected to a pump. Preferably, the pump is a water pump or a pneumatic pump.

[0017] Preferably, the cantilever has a generally quadrilateral cross-sectional shape. Preferably, the cantilever can extend substantially into the vehicle's container from the distal end to the proximal end of the container.

[0018] Preferably, the support assembly has a first end connected to the ground and a second end connected to and supporting the cantilever.

[0019] Preferably, the second end of the support assembly includes a drive assembly having a housing through which the cantilever extends. Preferably, the drive assembly includes a mechanism for moving the cantilever relative to the drive assembly. Preferably, the mechanism includes wheels that engage a machined surface of the cantilever.

[0020] Preferably, the support assembly includes a telescopic arm that can slide into another arm. The other arm can be a fixed or stationary arm. Preferably, the drive assembly is connected to the telescopic arm. Preferably, the drive assembly can move relative to the second end of the support assembly.

[0021] Preferably, the drive assembly is connected to a first end of an actuator. Preferably, a second end of the actuator is connected to the stationary arm of the support assembly. Preferably, the actuator is a hydraulic ram. Preferably, the drive assembly can rotate relative to the support assembly. Preferably, the rotation of the drive assembly tilts the cantilever.

[0022] Preferably, the platform is positioned adjacent to the support assembly. Preferably, the platform includes a bunker. The bunker can be raised from ground level, preferably to a height substantially aligned with the opening of the container, and can include one or more of a plurality of steps leading to the bunker and the compartment. Preferably, the bunker is located at a certain height from the ground and can be accessed by steps. Preferably, the bunker has a roof panel and at least one wall.

[0023] Preferably, the control panel is located in the bunker. Preferably, the control panel includes a user interface configured to allow an operator to use the cleaning system. Preferably, the user interface includes a plurality of buttons, a touch screen, and / or an operating lever. Preferably, the control panel is configured to allow the operator to control the boom, the telescopic arm, and the actuator. Preferably, the control panel communicates with the controller and the vehicle identification system.

[0024] Preferably, the steps allow access to the bunker to operate the control panel or perform maintenance work on the controller, the support assembly, or the boom. Preferably, the compartment is located at the bottom of the platform.

[0025] Preferably, the controller includes a processor. Preferably, the processor of the controller controls the movement of the boom, the drive assembly, and the telescopic arm. Preferably, the processor of the controller communicates with the control panel. Preferably, the processor of the controller is located in the control panel.

[0026] Preferably, the controller further includes a boom position encoder. Preferably, the boom position encoder measures the position of the boom relative to the drive assembly. Preferably, the boom position encoder is a rotary or linear encoder. Preferably, the boom position encoder is located on the drive assembly.

[0027] Preferably, the controller further includes a height position encoder. Preferably, the height position encoder measures the position of the telescopic arm of the support assembly. Preferably, the height position encoder is a rotary or linear encoder. Preferably, the height position encoder is connected to the support assembly and the platform. Preferably, the first end of the height position encoder is connected to the telescopic arm of the support assembly, and the second end of the height position encoder is connected to the platform.

[0028] Preferably, the controller further includes an inclinometer. Preferably, the inclinometer measures the movement / rotation of the drive assembly relative to the support assembly. Preferably, the inclinometer records the tilt of the drive assembly. Preferably, the inclinometer is located on the drive assembly.

[0029] Preferably, the vehicle identification system includes an identification reader and a processor. Preferably, the processor of the vehicle identification system communicates with the identification reader and the controller.

[0030] Preferably, the identification reader is located on the control panel. Preferably, the identification reader is configured to read an identifier. Preferably, the identification reader is an RFID, NFC, or barcode reader, and the identifier is a compatible RFID, NFC, or barcode tag, respectively. Preferably, the identifier is encoded with a unique identification number. Preferably, the unique identification number allows the identification reader to identify the identifier. Preferably, the unique identification number read by the identification reader is stored in the memory of the processor of the vehicle identification system.

[0031] Preferably, the vehicle identification system includes one or more cameras configured to identify the vehicle. Identifying the vehicle may include analyzing one or more images from one or more cameras to read a license plate or other vehicle identifier located on the vehicle. Preferably, the vehicle identification system includes a wireless receiver that communicates with a network or a mobile device to identify the vehicle.

[0032] Preferably, the cleaning system includes a stopper. Preferably, the stopper helps the operator park the vehicle in a proper position for the cleaning system to operate properly. Preferably, the stopper is configured to align with the rear or front wheels of the vehicle. Preferably, the stopper is an L-shaped member. Preferably, the stopper is fixed to the ground. Preferably, the cleaning system includes a vehicle position detection system.

[0033] In another form, the present invention resides in a method for cleaning an inner surface of a container located on a vehicle, the method comprising:

[0034] identifying the vehicle by a vehicle identification system;

[0035] retrieving one or more parameters of the vehicle stored on the vehicle identification system;

[0036] inserting a first end of an elongate cantilever into the container to clean the inner surface, wherein the cantilever is supported by a support assembly and is movable relative to the support assembly,

[0037] wherein a controller controls the movement of the cantilever based on the one or more parameters.

[0038] Preferably, identifying the vehicle by the vehicle identification system includes reading, by an identification reader of the vehicle identification system, a unique identification number encoded in an identifier associated with the vehicle. Preferably, one or more parameters of the vehicle are retrieved based on the unique identification number.

[0039] Preferably, the one or more parameters are stored in the memory of the processor of the vehicle identification system. Preferably, the one or more parameters include a predetermined position of the cantilever. Preferably, the predetermined position of the cantilever is set during an automatic mode setting process.

[0040] Preferably, the method for setting a predetermined position of the cantilever during the automatic mode setting process includes:

[0041] Identifying the vehicle through the vehicle identification system;

[0042] Moving the cantilever to a first position through the control panel and storing the first position in the vehicle identification system; and

[0043] Moving the cantilever to a second position through the control panel and storing the second position in the vehicle identification system.

[0044] Preferably, at the first position, the first end of the cantilever is located inside the container and is substantially adjacent to the opening at the distal end of the container.

[0045] Preferably, at the second position, the first end of the cantilever is located inside the container and is substantially adjacent to the proximal end of the container. Preferably, the proximal end of the container is opposite to the distal end of the container.

[0046] Preferably, the method for setting a predetermined position of the cantilever further includes:

[0047] Moving the cantilever to a first intermediate position through the control panel and storing the first intermediate position in the vehicle identification system; and

[0048] Moving the cantilever to a second intermediate position through the control panel and storing the second intermediate position in the vehicle identification system,

[0049] wherein, at the first intermediate position and the second intermediate position, the first end of the cantilever is located between the positions of the first end of the cantilever at the first position and the second position.

[0050] Preferably, at the first intermediate position, the first end of the cantilever is located between the proximal end and the distal end of the container, but is closer to the proximal end than the distal end of the container. Preferably, at the first intermediate position, the first end of the cantilever is located at about 1 meter from the proximal end of the container.

[0051] Preferably, at the second intermediate position, the first end of the cantilever is located between the proximal end and the distal end of the container, but is closer to the distal end than the proximal end of the container. Preferably, at the second intermediate position, the first end of the cantilever is located at about 1 meter from the distal end of the container.

[0052] Preferably, before inserting the first end of the cantilever into the container, the cantilever is moved to a default ("original") position. Preferably, at the default position, the cantilever is substantially parallel to the ground (not inclined), has the minimum length of the cantilever extending forward, and the cantilever is located at the minimum height from the ground.

[0053] Preferably, the method for cleaning the inner surface of the container located on the vehicle further includes:

[0054] Move the cantilever through an end - position cycle, wherein, in the end - position cycle, the cantilever moves to a first position and a second position;

[0055] Move the cantilever through a first intermediate - position cycle, wherein in the first intermediate - position cycle, the cantilever moves to the first position and a first intermediate position; and

[0056] Move the cantilever through a second intermediate - position cycle, wherein in the second intermediate - position cycle, the cantilever moves to the first position and a second intermediate position.

[0057] Preferably, the end - position cycle is performed at least 3 times. Preferably, the second intermediate - position cycle is performed at least three times.

[0058] Preferably, the cleaning system is as described herein.

[0059] Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0060] By way of example only, the preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0061] Figure 1 A perspective view of a cleaning system according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0062] Figure 2a Shows Figure 1 A side view of the cleaning system shown;

[0063] Figure 2b Shows Figure 1 An end view of the cleaning system shown;

[0064] Figures 2c - 2d Shows Figure 1 A partial view of the support assembly of the cleaning system shown, showing in detail the cantilever position encoder, the inclinometer, and the height - position encoder;

[0065] Figures 3 - 6 Shows Figure 1 Various configurations / positions of the cantilever of the cleaning system shown; and

[0066] Figure 7 Shows the Figure 1 Steps of the "automatic mode setting" process 100 performed on the cleaning system shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0067] Figures 1 - 6Shown is a cleaning system 10 for cleaning the inner surface of a container 30 located on a vehicle 20 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The cleaning system 10 includes an elongate cantilever 100, a support assembly 200 for supporting the cantilever 100, a controller 300 for controlling the movement of the cantilever, and a vehicle identification system 400 (not shown).

[0068] In this embodiment, the container 30 is a rotatable tank for containing premixed concrete. However, in further embodiments, the container 30 may be stationary relative to the vehicle 20 and / or may be used to contain other materials.

[0069] The cantilever 100 has a first end 101 and a second end 102, and the cantilever 100 is supported by the support assembly 200 at an intermediate portion of the cantilever 100 located between the first end 101 and the second end 102. A plurality of nozzles 110 are located on a rotatable portion at the first end 101 of the cantilever 100. The rotatable portion is hydraulically driven. However, in additional embodiments, the rotatable portion may include a turbine that rotates due to the flow of water, causing the nozzles 110 to rotate. Additionally, in further embodiments, the first end 101 of the cantilever 100 may include only one nozzle, and / or one or more nozzles may be located at other positions between the first end 101 and the second end 102 on the cantilever. The nozzles 110 are in fluid communication with a fluid passage formed in the cantilever 100, and the fluid passage terminates at a connector 120 located at the second end 102 of the cantilever 100. The connector 120 may be fluidly connected to a water or pneumatic pump. Thus, fluid can enter the fluid passage formed in the cantilever 100 through the connector 120 and be discharged through the nozzles 110. In this embodiment, the fluid used is water and is ejected from the nozzles 110 at high pressure by a water pump. However, in additional embodiments, a suitable cleaning solution or compressed air may be used. Additionally, in further embodiments, compressed air may be used to clean and / or purge the nozzles 110.

[0070] In the present embodiment, the cantilever 100 has a generally quadrilateral cross-sectional shape. However, in additional embodiments, the cantilever 100 may have a different cross-sectional shape, such as circular or elliptical, or an irregular cross-sectional shape. The length of the cantilever 100 is selected such that the cantilever 100 can extend substantially into the container 30 of the vehicle 20 from the distal end 31 to the proximal end 32 of the container.

[0071] The support assembly 200 has a first end 201 firmly connected to the ground and a second end 202 connected to and supporting the cantilever 100. However, in further embodiments, the support assembly 200 may be located at a certain distance above the ground, and the first end 201 of the support assembly 200 may be connected to another structure.

[0072] The second end 202 of the support assembly 200 includes a drive assembly 210 having a housing through which the cantilever 100 extends. The drive assembly 210 includes a suitable drive mechanism in the form of a wheel that engages a machined surface of the cantilever, and this drive mechanism moves the cantilever 100 forward or backward relative to the drive assembly 210, thereby allowing the length of the cantilever 100 that extends beyond the housing of the drive assembly 210 to be adjusted according to the dimensions of the container 30 of the vehicle 20. The drive assembly 210 itself can move up or down relative to the second end 202 of the support assembly 200 since it is located on a telescopic arm 204 that is slidable into the stationary arm 203 of the support assembly 200. However, in alternative embodiments, different mechanisms, such as hydraulic or pneumatic pistons and / or scissor arms, can be used to move the drive assembly 210 relative to the remainder of the support assembly 200.

[0073] The drive assembly 210 is also connected to one end of an actuator 205 in the form of a hydraulic piston, and the other end of the actuator 205 is connected to the stationary arm 203 of the support assembly 200. This arrangement allows the drive assembly 210 to rotate relative to the remainder of the support assembly 200, thereby tilting the cantilever 100. However, in alternative embodiments, different mechanisms can be used to rotate the drive assembly, such as a motor that rotates a portion of the drive assembly 210 that is connected to the telescopic arm 204, pneumatic piston, etc. of the support assembly 200.

[0074] The platform 500 is located near the support assembly 200 and includes a bunker 510, a plurality of steps 520 leading to the bunker 510, and a compartment 530. The bunker 510 is located at a certain height above the ground and can be accessed via the steps 520. The control panel 310 is located in the bunker 510 such that the top plate and walls of the bunker 510 substantially protect it from rain or other weather phenomena. However, in alternative embodiments, the platform 500 can be located at a certain distance from the support assembly 200 or the control panel 310 can be located elsewhere, such as on or near the support assembly 200 or at a certain distance from the support assembly 200. The steps 520 allow access to the bunker 510 for operating the control panel 310 or performing maintenance work on the controller 300, support assembly 200, or cantilever 100.

[0075] The compartment 530 is located at the bottom of the platform 500 and provides a housing for various components such as pumps, controllers, or spare parts.

[0076] The controller 300 includes a processor 320 (not shown) located in the control panel 310, a boom position encoder 301, a height position encoder 302, and an inclinometer 303. The processor 320 of the controller 300 controls the movement of the boom 100, the drive assembly 210, and the telescopic arm 204 of the support assembly 200, and communicates with the control panel 310. However, in alternative embodiments, the processor 320 may be located elsewhere and still communicate with the control panel 310, such as in the compartment 530 or on the support assembly 200. The processor 320 also communicates with the boom position encoder 301, the height position encoder 302, the inclinometer 303, and the vehicle identification system 400.

[0077] The boom position encoder 301 and the inclinometer 303 are located on the drive assembly 210, while the height position encoder 302 is located between the support assembly 200 and the platform 500. One end of the height position encoder 302 is connected to the telescopic arm 204, and the other end is connected to the platform 500. The boom position encoder 301 and the height position encoder 302 are rotary encoders that record the positions of the boom 100 (relative to the drive assembly) and the telescopic arm 204 of the support assembly 200, respectively. The inclinometer 303 records the tilt of the drive assembly 210 (and thus the boom 100). However, in alternative embodiments, the boom position encoder 301 and the height position encoder 302 may be linear encoders, the tilt of the drive assembly 210 may be recorded by a rotary encoder, or the positions of the boom 100 and the telescopic arm 204 and the tilt of the drive assembly 210 may be recorded by other types of devices.

[0078] The control panel 310 includes a user interface having a plurality of buttons that allow an operator to use the cleaning system 10 by controlling the movement of the boom 100, the telescopic arm 204, and the actuator 205. However, in alternative embodiments, the user interface may be in the form of a touch screen and / or an operable lever, with or without buttons. The user interface is configured to communicate with the controller 300 and the vehicle identification system 400.

[0079] The vehicle identification system 400 includes an identification reader 410 located on the control panel 310 and a processor 420 (not shown). The processor 420 of the vehicle identification system 400 communicates with the identification reader 410 and the processor 320 of the controller 300. The identification reader 410 is in the form of an RFID (radio frequency identification) reader that can read a compatible identifier 450 (not shown) in the form of an RFID tag and output a signal to the processor 420. Each identifier 450 is encoded with a unique identification number that allows the identification reader 410 to identify which identifier 450 is being read. The unique identification number is also transmitted by the identification reader 410 to the processor 420 and may be stored in the memory of the processor 420.

[0080] However, in a further embodiment, each identifier 450 may be an NFC (Near Field Communication) tag or a barcode, and the identification reader 410 is an NFC reader or a barcode reader respectively. Alternatively, the vehicle identification system 400 may include a camera configured to identify the vehicle 20 based on its physical parameters or license plate, and / or the vehicle identification system 400 may include a wireless receiver that communicates wirelessly with a network or a mobile device to receive information about the identity of the vehicle 20 and / or communicates with the processor 420. The wireless receiver is also capable of communicating with the controller 300.

[0081] The backstop 600 is used together with the cleaning system 10 to assist the operator of the vehicle 20 in parking the vehicle 20 in the correct position for the proper operation of the cleaning system 10. The operator is required to align the rear or front wheels of the vehicle 20 with the backstop 600 to ensure that the vehicle 20 is in the correct position. The backstop 600 is in the form of an L-shaped member firmly fixed to the ground. However, in additional embodiments, the backstop 600 may have a different shape, such as linear or U-shaped, or a different system may be used instead of the backstop 600, such as a vehicle position detection system or a proximity sensor.

[0082] Figures 3 - 6 The cleaning system 10 used with the vehicle 20 is shown. The cleaning system 10 can operate in two different modes, namely manual or automatic, which can be selected by the operator from the control panel 310. To use the cleaning system 10 in manual mode, first turn on the cleaning system 10, select the manual mode and start the cleaning process by pressing the "Start" button. Then, the operator can adjust the position (height, extension and tilt) of the boom by pressing the appropriate buttons on the control panel 310 to achieve the desired position of the first end 101 of the boom 100 within the container 30 (as Figures 3 - 6 shown). The operator can also start the water flow through the nozzle 110 by pressing the appropriate button for turning on the water pump. It is worth noting that the operator can adjust the position of the boom even when the water pump is on. When the container 30 has been cleaned, the user can turn off the cleaning system 10 by pressing the appropriate button on the control panel 310. However, in additional embodiments, the use of the cleaning system 10 in manual mode may be locked and accessible only by using a key.

[0083] Before operating the cleaning system 10 in automatic mode, the relevant parameters of each vehicle 20, i.e., the desired configuration / position of the boom 100 of each vehicle 20, need to be programmed and stored in the memory of the processor 420 of the vehicle identification system 400. Figure 7Illustrates the steps involved in this "automatic mode setting" process 100, which broadly includes an activation step 1100 and an initialization step 1200. In steps 1110 - 1130, first, the cleaning system 10 is turned on, the manual mode is selected, and the cleaning process is started by pressing the "start" button. In step 1140, the operator places the identifier 450 on or near the identification reader 410 on the control panel 310 such that the identification reader 410 can read the unique identification number encoded in the identifier 450 and identify the vehicle 20 associated with the unique identification number. This information is also transmitted to the controller 300 such that the parameters (i.e., the desired position of the boom set in the initialization step 1200) are associated with and stored relative to the specific vehicle 20, the associated unique identification number of which is read from the identifier 450. However, in an alternative embodiment, the identifier 450 can be read before the cleaning system 10 is turned on.

[0084] Next, in step 1150, the operator moves the boom 100 (by pressing the appropriate button on the control panel 310) to the "home" position, i.e., the position where the boom 100 is parallel to the ground (not tilted) and the boom 100 extends the minimum length forward from the drive assembly 210 and the telescopic arm 204 extends the minimum length from the stationary arm 203 (as Figure 3 shown). Then, in step 1160, the operator moves the boom 100 to a suitable height (as Figure 4 shown) to enter the container 30 (by moving the telescopic arm 204) and tilts the boom 100 (as Figure 5 shown) to an angle corresponding to the tilt angle of the container 30 (by actuating the actuator 205 to tilt the drive assembly 210). At the end of step 1160, the cleaning system 10 is ready to be programmed with the desired position of the boom 10 for the specific vehicle 20 (initialization step 1200), the associated unique identification number of which is read from the identifier 450.

[0085] First, in step 1210, the boom 100 extends to the "start" position such that the first end 101 of the boom 100 is inside the container 30 but is substantially adjacent to the opening of the container 30 at its distal end 31. This position of the boom is stored in the memory of the processor 420 of the vehicle identification system 400 by pressing the appropriate button on the control panel 310. Next, in step 1220, the boom 100 extends to the "end" position, where the first end 101 of the boom 100 is substantially adjacent to the proximal end 32 of the container 30, opposite the distal end 31 with the opening. This "end" position of the boom 100 is also stored in the memory of the processor 420 of the vehicle identification system 400.

[0086] Subsequently, at step 1230, the cantilever 100 retracts towards the distal 31 portion of the container 30 to a first intermediate position such that the first end 101 of the cantilever 100 is located between the distal 31 and proximal 32 of the container 30, but closer to the proximal 32 than the distal 31 of the container 30. This first intermediate position of the cantilever 100 is stored in the memory of the processor 420 of the vehicle identification system 400 by pressing an appropriate button on the control panel 310. Similarly, at step 1240, the second intermediate position of the cantilever 100 is stored in the memory of the processor 420 of the vehicle identification system 400 (by pressing an appropriate button on the control panel 310) by further retracting the cantilever 100 towards the distal 31 portion of the container 30 to a second intermediate position such that the first end 101 of the cantilever 100 is located between the distal 31 and proximal 32 of the container 30, but closer to the distal 31 than the proximal 32 of the container 30.

[0087] In this embodiment, the distance between the first intermediate position and the proximal 32 of the container 30 is about 1 meter, and the distance between the second intermediate position and the distal 31 of the container 30 is also about 1 meter. However, in other embodiments, the cleaning system 10 may not require intermediate positions or may only require one or three or more intermediate positions to operate the cleaning system 10 in the automatic mode. Additionally, in other embodiments, the distances between the first and / or second intermediate positions and the distal and / or proximal ends of the container 30 may vary depending on the size, shape, type, etc. of the container 30.

[0088] Finally, at step 1250, the cantilever 100 retracts to the "original" position (similar to step 1150), i.e., when the cantilever 100 is parallel to the ground (not tilted) and at the minimum length at which the cantilever 100 extends forward from the drive assembly 210 and the telescopic arm 204 extends from the stationary arm 203 by the minimum length (as Figure 3 shown). This ends the "automatic mode setting" process 100 for the specific vehicle 20, the unique identification number associated with which is read from the identifier 450, and the relevant parameters of the vehicle 20 are saved in the memory of the processor 420 of the vehicle identification system 400.

[0089] To use the cleaning system 10 in automatic mode (after the "Automatic Mode Setup" process 100 is completed), first turn on the cleaning system 10, select the automatic mode and start the cleaning process by pressing the "Start" button. Next, the operator places the identifier 450 on or near the identification reader 410 on the control panel 310 such that the identification reader 410 can read the unique identification number encoded in the identifier 450 and identify the vehicle 20 associated with the unique identification number. This information enables the parameters associated with a particular vehicle 20 (the preset position of the boom set in the "Automatic Mode Setup" process 100) to be retrieved from the memory of the processor 420 of the vehicle identification system 400 and transmitted to the controller 300, where the unique identification number associated with the particular vehicle 20 is read from the identifier 450.

[0090] After the identifier 450 has been read by the identification reader 410, the controller 300 moves the boom 100 to the "home" position, i.e., the position where the boom 100 is parallel to the ground (not tilted) and the boom 100 extends a minimum length forward from the drive assembly 210 and the telescopic arm 204 extends a minimum length from the stationary arm 203 (as Figure 3 shown). Once the boom 100 has retracted to the "home" position, the parameters associated with the vehicle 20 stored in the processor 420 of the vehicle identification system 400 are retrieved, and the boom 100 (by the controller 300) extends to the "start" position set in step 1210 of the "Automatic Mode Setup" process 100 such that the first end 101 of the boom 100 is located within the container 30 (of the vehicle 20 whose associated unique identification number is read from the identifier 450), but is substantially adjacent to the opening of the container 30 at its distal end 31. However, in an alternative embodiment, the boom 100 may not be moved to the "home" position before being moved to the "start" position and may instead be moved directly from whatever position the boom 100 is already in to the "start" position.

[0091] When the boom 100 has extended to the "start" position, the controller 300 turns on the water pump, which causes water to flow through the nozzle 110 and the rotatable portion on which the nozzle 110 is located begins to rotate. After a predetermined time (about 10 seconds) to allow the water pressure to build up, the boom 100 is extended by the controller 300 to the "end" position set in step 1220 of the "Automatic Mode Setup" process 100 such that the first end 101 of the boom 100 is located in a position substantially adjacent to the proximal end 32 of the container 30. Next, the boom 100 is retracted by the controller 300 to the "start" position, and this "end" position cycle ("start" position - "end" position - "start" position) is repeated two more times.

[0092] Next, the cantilever 100 is moved by the controller 300 from the "start" position to the first intermediate position (set at step 1230 of the "automatic mode setting" process 100), and then retracted to the "start" position (first intermediate position cycle).

[0093] Subsequently, the cantilever 100 is moved by the controller 300 from the "start" position to the second intermediate position (set at step 1240 of the "automatic mode setting" process 100), and then retracted to the "start" position. This second intermediate position cycle ("start" position - second intermediate position - "start" position) is repeated two more times.

[0094] When all of the above cycles have been completed, the cantilever 100 will remain in the "start" position for a predetermined time (about 20 seconds) before the controller 300 shuts off the water pump.

[0095] Finally, about 10 seconds after the water pump is shut off, the controller 300 moves the cantilever 100 to the "original" position (as Figure 3 shown). Then the cleaning system 10 automatically shuts down.

[0096] In a further embodiment, in the automatic mode, the cleaning system 10 may perform each cycle ("end" position cycle, first intermediate position cycle, and second intermediate position cycle) only once, or may perform each cycle any number of times (the same or different number of times for each cycle). Additionally, the cycles performed and the positions included in each cycle may vary according to the number of positions set in the "automatic mode setting" process 100. Further, the cleaning system 10 may allow the operator to select the frequency of each cycle before starting the automatic mode.

[0097] When the cleaning system 10 is operating in the automatic mode or when the "automatic mode setting" process 100 is being executed, the extension of the cantilever 100, the tilt of the cantilever 100, and the position of the telescopic arm 204 of the support assembly 200 are continuously recorded by the cantilever position encoder 301, the inclinometer 303, and the height position encoder 302, respectively, and the data is transmitted to the processor 320 of the controller 300. Additionally, any deflection of the first end 101 of the cantilever 100 when the cantilever 100 extends into the container 30 can be measured and compensated for by the controller 300 such that the cantilever 100 follows a predetermined and substantially central path within the container 30 and no part of the cantilever 100 physically contacts any part of the container 30 (including any other components located inside the container 30).

[0098] A cleaning system 10 that can operate in an automatic mode has several advantages compared to a cleaning system that can only be operated manually. Notably, the cleaning system 10 does not require an operator to control the movement of the boom 100 during the cleaning process (in the automatic mode), thereby eliminating the possibility of human error (which could lead to damage to the boom 100 or the container 30) and providing consistent results. In addition, due to the various positions and orientations that the boom 100 can be moved to, the cleaning system 10 can be used for different types of vehicles with containers of different sizes and orientations.

[0099] The "automatic mode setting" process 100 of the vehicle identification system 400 and the cleaning system 10 also allows an operator to set the desired positions of the boom 100 relative to the container 30 of the vehicle 20, and once these positions are set, the operator can simply have the identification reader 410 of the vehicle identification system 400 read the identifier 450 to have the cleaning system 10 automatically clean the container 30. Thus, the cleaning system 10 greatly reduces the input required from the operator and ensures thorough cleaning of the container 30 without the operator having to control the boom 100 during the cleaning process.

[0100] In this specification, adjectives such as first and second, forward and backward, up and down, top and bottom, proximal and distal, etc. may be used only to distinguish one element or action from another element or action, and do not necessarily require or imply any actual such relationship or order. Where the context permits, a reference to an integer or a component or a step (or the like) should not be construed as being limited to only one of that integer, component or step, but may be one or more of that integer, component or step, etc.

[0101] The above description of the various embodiments of the present invention is for the purpose of description to those of ordinary skill in the relevant art. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present invention to a single disclosed embodiment. As described above, many alternatives and variations of the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art of the above teachings. Thus, while some alternative embodiments have been specifically discussed, other embodiments will be apparent or relatively easily developed by those of ordinary skill in the art. The present invention is intended to cover all alternatives, modifications and variations of the present invention discussed herein, as well as other embodiments that fall within the spirit and scope of the above invention.

[0102] In this specification, the terms "comprising", "comprises", "including", "includes" or similar terms are intended to mean non-exclusive inclusion, such that a method, system or device that includes a list of elements does not include only those elements, but may include other elements not listed.

Claims

1. A cleaning system for cleaning the inner surface of a container located on a vehicle, the cleaning system comprising: An elongate cantilever with at least one nozzle located at a first end of the cantilever; A support assembly for supporting the cantilever, the support assembly including a telescopic arm and a drive assembly connected to the telescopic arm, the telescopic arm being slidable into a stationary arm, wherein the cantilever is movable relative to the support assembly; A controller configured to control the movement of the cantilever; and A vehicle identification system including an identification reader configured to identify the vehicle and communicate with the controller, the identification reader being configured to read an identifier encoded with a unique identification number, the identifier being associated with the vehicle, Wherein, upon identifying the vehicle, one or more parameters of the vehicle are retrieved from the vehicle identification system, Wherein the cantilever is configured to extend into the container to clean the inner surface based on the one or more parameters, and Wherein the one or more parameters include a predetermined position of the cantilever, the predetermined position of the cantilever being set during an automatic mode setup process, Wherein the drive assembly includes a housing through which the cantilever extends, and Wherein the drive assembly is connected to a first end of an actuator configured to rotate the drive assembly relative to the telescopic arm, a second end of the actuator being connected to the stationary arm.

2. The cleaning system according to claim 1, wherein, The cantilever is capable of extending substantially into the container of the vehicle from a distal end to a proximal end of the container.

3. The cleaning system according to claim 1, wherein, The drive assembly includes a mechanism configured to move the cantilever relative to the drive assembly.

4. The cleaning system according to any one of claims 1 - 3, wherein, The controller includes a cantilever position encoder configured to measure the position of the cantilever relative to the drive assembly.

5. The cleaning system according to claim 1, wherein, The controller includes a height position encoder configured to measure the position of the telescopic arm of the support assembly.

6. The cleaning system according to claim 1, wherein, The controller includes an inclinometer configured to measure the movement and / or rotation of the drive assembly relative to the support assembly.

7. The cleaning system according to claim 1, wherein, The identification reader is an RFID, NFC or barcode reader, and the identifier is a compatible RFID, NFC or barcode tag respectively.

8. The cleaning system according to claim 1, wherein, A platform is positioned adjacent to the support assembly, the platform including a shelter having a control panel located therein.

9. The cleaning system according to claim 1, wherein The cleaning system includes a stopper configured to assist an operator in parking the vehicle in a suitable position for operation of the cleaning system.

10. The cleaning system according to claim 9, wherein, The stopper is configured to align with the rear or front wheels of the vehicle.

11. The cleaning system according to claim 8, wherein, The control panel includes a user interface and is configured to allow an operator to control the movement of the cantilever.

12. The cleaning system according to claim 8, wherein the control panel is configured to communicate with the controller and the vehicle identification system.

13. A method for cleaning the inner surface of a container located on a vehicle, the method comprising: Identifying the vehicle by a vehicle identification system; Retrieving one or more parameters of the vehicle stored on the vehicle identification system; Insert the first end of the slender cantilever into the container to clean the inner surface, wherein the cantilever is supported by a support assembly and is movable relative to the support assembly, and the support assembly includes a telescopic arm and a drive assembly connected to the telescopic arm, and the telescopic arm is capable of sliding into the stationary arm. Wherein, the controller controls the movement of the cantilever based on the one or more parameters, and the one or more parameters include a predetermined position of the cantilever, and the predetermined position of the cantilever is set during the automatic mode setting process. Wherein, identifying the vehicle by the vehicle identification system includes reading, by an identification reader of the vehicle identification system, a unique identification number encoded in an identifier associated with the vehicle. Wherein, the drive assembly includes a housing, and the cantilever extends through the housing, and Wherein, the drive assembly is connected to a first end of an actuator configured to rotate the drive assembly relative to the telescopic arm, and a second end of the actuator is connected to the stationary arm.

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein, The one or more parameters of the vehicle are retrieved based on the unique identification number.

15. The method according to claim 14, wherein Setting the predetermined position of the cantilever during the automatic mode setting process includes: Identifying the vehicle by the vehicle identification system; Moving the cantilever to a first position by the control panel and storing the first position in the vehicle identification system; and Moving the cantilever to a second position by the control panel and storing the second position in the vehicle identification system.

16. The method according to claim 15, wherein, In the first position, the first end of the cantilever is located inside the container and is substantially adjacent to an opening at the distal end of the container, and Wherein, in the second position, the first end of the cantilever is located inside the container and is substantially adjacent to the proximal end of the container.

17. The method according to claim 15, wherein, Setting the predetermined position of the cantilever further includes: Moving the cantilever to a first intermediate position by the control panel and storing the first intermediate position in the vehicle identification system; and Moving the cantilever to a second intermediate position by the control panel and storing the second intermediate position in the vehicle identification system, Wherein, in the first intermediate position and the second intermediate position, the first end of the cantilever is located between the positions of the first end of the cantilever in the first position and the second position.

18. The method according to claim 17, wherein, In the first intermediate position, the first end of the cantilever is located between the proximal end and the distal end of the container, but is closer to the proximal end than the distal end of the container, and Wherein, in the second intermediate position, the first end of the cantilever is located between the proximal end and the distal end of the container, but is closer to the distal end than the proximal end of the container.

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