Apparatus and method for applying a cleaning liquid to a vehicle component

Abstract

The present invention relates to an apparatus (10) for applying a cleaning liquid to a vehicle component (6), wherein the apparatus includes an upper nozzle (1) for spraying the cleaning liquid in a first spray geometry (1-3), wherein the first spray geometry (1-3) is defined in a first vertical cross section from the upper nozzle (1) by a first upper side (1-1) and a first lower side (1-2), the first upper side and the first lower side forming a first angle (α1) with each other. The device (10) is characterized in that it includes a lower nozzle (2) for spraying a cleaning liquid in a second spray geometry (2-3), the second spray geometry (2-3) being defined in a second vertical cross-section from the lower nozzle (2) by a second upper side (2-1) and a second lower side (2-2), the second upper side and the second lower side forming a second angle (α2) with each other, the upper nozzle (1) being disposed vertically above the lower nozzle (2), and in the vertical projection, a first straight line (G1) extending through the first upper side (1-1) and a second straight line (G2) extending through the second lower side (2-2) forming an angle of less than 10 degrees, and the first lower side (1-2) intersecting the second upper side (2-1) in the direction of cleaning liquid spraying. The invention also relates to a corresponding method for applying a cleaning liquid to a vehicle component (6).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an apparatus for applying a cleaning liquid to vehicle components. The apparatus includes an upper nozzle for spraying the cleaning liquid in a first jet geometry. A first vertical cross-section of the first jet geometry from the upper nozzle is defined by a first upper side edge and a first lower side edge, the first upper side edge and the first lower side edge forming a first angle with each other. Furthermore, this invention relates to a method for applying a cleaning liquid to vehicle components and a vehicle washing facility having such an apparatus. The apparatus and method are particularly designed for applying a cleaning liquid to wheel rims. Background Technology

[0002] A wheel cleaning device, particularly suitable for truck wheels, is known from DE9000427U1. Here, optimal cleaning results should be achieved, especially for different wheel shapes. This is achieved by the wheel cleaning device having an outer casing surrounding the cleaning head. This casing is made of an elastic material. The casing is placed on the wheel for the cleaning process, forming a substantially closed cleaning space around the cleaning head. The casing prevents detergent from entering the vehicle body. A central nozzle is used to apply the cleaning liquid. A rotating annular nozzle is used to apply the rinsing liquid.

[0003] A rim cleaning device for an automated cleaning system is known from DE3518297C2. In this rim cleaning device, a cleaning liquid is sprayed onto the wheel rim via a spray nozzle fixedly installed at a location. A cleaning brush then feeds toward the rim, cleaning the vehicle rim by means of the cleaning brush. The spray geometry of the sprayed cleaning liquid here has an upper side and a lower side in a vertical cross-section, in which the axis of the rim and the nozzle are located. The upper side is oriented obliquely upward from the nozzle toward the upper portion of the vehicle rim, and the lower side is oriented obliquely downward toward the lower portion of the vehicle rim.

[0004] In vehicle washing facilities, the following problem arises: the horizontal distance between the nozzle and the vehicle's wheel rim can vary in the vehicle's lateral direction. Generally, the horizontal distance between the rim and the nozzle is smaller in vehicles with a wider track width compared to vehicles with a narrower track width. Simultaneously, vehicles with a wider track width typically have a larger rim diameter compared to vehicles with a narrower track width. This results in a situation where, in vehicle washing facilities, the horizontal distance between a larger vehicle rim and the nozzle is smaller compared to a smaller vehicle rim.

[0005] Because the nozzle's spray geometry has sides in its vertical cross-section that form an angle, the sprayed area is smaller when the vehicle rim is horizontally closer to the nozzle, and larger when the rim is horizontally farther from the nozzle. In vehicle washing facilities, this results in the spray jet loading a smaller area onto a larger rim that already has a larger surface area to clean, and vice versa. Depending on the angle of the spray geometry, this leads to either the larger rim not being fully sprayed with cleaning liquid, or the spray passing by the smaller rim instead. Both of these situations are undesirable.

[0006] To address this problem, WO2012 / 028346A1 discloses an apparatus and method for applying a cleaning liquid to vehicle wheels, wherein a spray nozzle is configured on a movable feeding device to move between a stationary position away from the wheel and a spray position with a spray distance away from the wheel. Specifically, the spray nozzle is moved such that it occupies a specific, desired spray distance from the wheel. To determine the desired spray distance, the distance from the wheel to the device is determined, and the spray nozzle is subsequently moved to a spray position in which it has the desired spray distance from the wheel. The cleaning liquid is then sprayed onto the wheel through the spray nozzle, and the spray nozzle moves along the wheel in the cleaning direction.

[0007] The disadvantages of the described device and method are that the feedable spray nozzle requires a more expensive and maintenance-intensive equipment structure. Furthermore, in this case, it is necessary to determine the distance between the wheel or vehicle rim and the nozzle, and control the feed device horizontally based on this distance. This also results in higher costs in the manufacture and maintenance of the equipment. Summary of the Invention

[0008] Therefore, the objective of this invention is to provide an apparatus and method of the type described at the beginning, by which a cleaning fluid can be applied to vehicle components, particularly vehicle rims or wheels, such that the cleaning fluid can be applied to the vehicle components regardless of the horizontal distance between the vehicle components and the nozzle. Here, the vehicle components should be coated with cleaning fluid as completely as possible, and the amount of cleaning fluid not in contact with the vehicle should be as small as possible.

[0009] According to the invention, this objective is achieved by a device having the features of the invention and a method having the features of the invention. Advantageous designs and modifications are derived herein.

[0010] In addition to the upper nozzle, the device according to the invention includes a lower nozzle for ejecting a cleaning liquid in a second jet geometry, the second jet geometry being defined in a second vertical cross-section from the lower nozzle by a second upper side and a second lower side boundary, the second upper side and the second lower side forming a second angle. Here, the upper nozzle is disposed above the lower nozzle at a distance in the vertical direction. Furthermore, in the vertical projection, a first straight line extending through the first upper side and a second straight line extending through the second lower side form an angle of less than 10 degrees, and the first lower side and the second lower side intersect in the direction of liquid ejection.

[0011] The vertical cross-section here is specifically defined as a plane in which the ejection openings of the upper or lower nozzles are located, and in which the ejected liquid volumes of these nozzles move. The direction and velocity of each liquid volume ejected within the nozzle are defined. These parameters are related to the nozzle geometry and the pressure of the cleaning liquid within the nozzle. The jet geometry defines which areas the ejected liquid volumes reach and through which the ejected liquid volumes move. If a liquid volume contacts a surface to be cleaned, a sprayed surface is created, which is determined by the jet geometry and the arrangement of the surface to be cleaned relative to the nozzle.

[0012] In a vertical cross-section, the jet geometry is defined by two sides forming an angle. Here, as an approximation, it is assumed that the sides are straight. However, due to gravity, the sides actually curve slightly downwards. This curvature is related to the ejection velocity of the liquid volume and the properties of the cleaning liquid. It can be assumed, as an approximation, that the orientation of the approximately straight sides coincides with the tangent of the actually slightly curved sides at the nozzle exit point.

[0013] The upper nozzle is located above the lower nozzle. If the upper nozzle does not have a horizontally offset portion relative to the lower nozzle in a cross-section perpendicular to the vertical direction, that is, if the upper nozzle is directly positioned above the lower nozzle in this horizontal direction, then the first vertical cross-section coincides with the second vertical cross-section. Only when the upper nozzle is horizontally offset from the lower nozzle in this horizontal direction, the first vertical cross-section is parallel to the second vertical cross-section but horizontally offset from it. This offset is irrelevant in the case of the aforementioned vertical projection. If the upper nozzle is directly above the lower nozzle, and thus the first and second vertical cross-sections coincide, then the vertical projections are equal to the first and second vertical cross-sections, respectively.

[0014] Because in the device according to the invention, the side of the first upper portion is substantially parallel to the side of the second lower portion, the liquid volume moving along the side of the first upper portion will not encounter the liquid volume moving along the side of the second lower portion. Therefore, the side of the first upper portion and the side of the second lower portion intersect only in an imaginary extension, either in the direction of the cleaning liquid ejection or against the direction of the cleaning liquid ejection, depending on the angle of the respective side relative to the horizontal line. If the first straight line and the second straight line intersect in the direction of the cleaning liquid ejection, then the liquid volumes on these sides move vertically toward each other. If the first straight line and the second straight line intersect oppositely against the direction of the cleaning liquid ejection, then the liquid volumes on these sides move away from each other in the vertical direction. If the side of the first upper portion and the side of the second lower portion extend parallel to each other, then the vertical spacing between the liquid volumes ejected onto these sides remains unchanged.

[0015] The angle formed by the first and second straight lines is particularly less than 5 degrees, preferably less than 3 degrees. Particularly preferably, the angle is 0 degrees. In this case, the first and second straight lines, thus the sides of the first upper portion and the second lower portion, extend parallel to each other.

[0016] A liquid volume moving along the side of the first lower portion encounters a liquid volume moving along the side of the second upper portion. The horizontal distance between the intersection of the sides of the first lower portion and the second upper portion is related to the angle between the first and second jet geometries.

[0017] The device according to the invention has the following advantages: by the arrangement of the lower nozzle and the upper nozzle and by the spray geometry of these nozzles, a region is formed at a horizontal distance from the nozzle, in which the surface of the vehicle component to be cleaned or the vehicle component can be loaded with cleaning liquid, such that when the horizontal distance of the vehicle component from the nozzle changes in the region, the desired surface of the vehicle component or the vehicle component is completely loaded with cleaning liquid, and the cleaning liquid is not sprayed past the surface or vehicle component from the side.

[0018] In the following text, it is assumed that a vehicle component will be sprayed with a cleaning liquid. However, it is also possible in the same way that only a specific surface area or a particular face of the vehicle component, rather than the entire vehicle component, should be sprayed with the cleaning liquid. In this case, the area to be sprayed, or the face discussed in this way, corresponds to the vehicle component in size and orientation.

[0019] According to one design of the device according to the invention, the first and second vertical cross-sections coincide. The nozzles are therefore spaced apart in the vertical direction, but not in the horizontal direction perpendicular to the vertical cross-sections.

[0020] According to another design, the first vertical cross-section can also be spaced apart from the second vertical cross-section. Here, the first vertical cross-section is specifically oriented parallel to the second vertical cross-section. In this case, the nozzles are spaced apart from each other in both the vertical and horizontal directions. Therefore, the nozzles are horizontally staggered from each other.

[0021] According to another design of the device according to the invention, the side of the first upper portion is oriented horizontally. Alternatively or additionally, the side of the second lower portion is oriented horizontally. Therefore, the volume of liquid ejected such that it moves along the sides of the first upper portion and the second lower portion respectively does not change its height, provided that trajectory changes due to gravity are ignored. Thus, this volume of liquid contacts the vehicle component to be cleaned at the height of the nozzle, more precisely, regardless of the distance of the vehicle component from the nozzle (again, ignoring trajectory changes due to gravity).

[0022] In another design of the device according to the invention, the first upper side and the second lower side are oriented parallel to each other. In this case, a region is formed between these two sides in a direction perpendicular to the sides, in which the vehicle component is loaded with cleaning fluid regardless of its distance. In a portion of this region further away from the intersection of the first lower side and the second upper side, the vehicle component to be cleaned is even completely loaded with cleaning fluid.

[0023] The first and / or second angles are particularly in the range of 30 to 50 degrees, preferably in the range of 35 to 45 degrees. However, these two angles need not be identical. These angles determine the intersection of the first lower side and the second upper side at a horizontal distance from the nozzle, said horizontal distance being less than the typical horizontal distance between the surface to be cleaned and the nozzle in a vehicle washing facility.

[0024] According to another design of the device according to the invention, the second lower side is horizontally oriented and the first upper side is inclined downward at an angle ranging from 6 to 10 degrees. In particular, this angle is 8 degrees. If the device is used in a vehicle washing facility to wash vehicles with different rim or wheel sizes, this design advantageously results in improved loading of the cleaning fluid onto wheel rims of different sizes. Due to the horizontal orientation of the second lower side, it therefore generally always intersects the lower edge of the vehicle rim, regardless of wheel size, provided the lower nozzle is correspondingly vertically positioned. Conversely, the first upper side contacts the wheel or vehicle rim in a vertical position, the vertical position being related to the horizontal distance of the wheel from the nozzle. However, since the smaller vehicle rim is typically positioned further away from the nozzle in the horizontal direction compared to the larger vehicle rim in a vehicle washing facility, the difference in rim size and horizontal distance from the nozzle is advantageously compensated by the inclination of the side of the first upper part, as the side of the first upper part contacts the smaller vehicle rim, which is lower than the larger vehicle rim.

[0025] According to one design of the device according to the invention, the nozzle is stationary relative to the device. The nozzle is therefore capable of moving with the device. In particular, this movement can be translation, in which the nozzle follows the moving wheel. However, in particular, the nozzle does not perform any pivoting or rotational movement.

[0026] According to another design of the device according to the invention, the nozzle is configured to rotate about a horizontally oriented axis. In particular, this axis lies in a vertical cross-section. Specifically, this axis intersects at the intersection of the side edge of the first lower portion and the side edge of the second upper portion. Advantageously, in this case, a disk-shaped surface in a plane perpendicular to the axis can be sprayed with a cleaning liquid by means of the nozzle. The vertical cross-section formed by the first and second spray geometries, or the spray geometry formed by the first and second vertical cross-sections, is in particular mirror-symmetric in this case. The mirror-symmetric plane is perpendicular to the vertical cross-section or the first and second vertical cross-sections. It also intersects at the intersection of the side edge of the first lower portion and the side edge of the second upper portion.

[0027] The upper or lower nozzle is particularly a solid cone nozzle and / or a flat jet nozzle. The upper and lower nozzles are preferably solid cone nozzles or flat jet nozzles.

[0028] The present invention also relates to a vehicle washing facility having the above-described device. In this case, the device is used to clean at least one rim of a vehicle to be cleaned. In particular, the vertical distance between the upper nozzle and the lower nozzle corresponds to the diameter of the rim to be cleaned, and the distance between the upper nozzle and the ground corresponds to the distance between the upper edge of the rim and the ground, and the distance between the lower nozzle and the ground corresponds to the distance between the lower edge of the rim and the ground.

[0029] When the nozzle is positioned vertically, it can be based on the standard or average diameter of the rim and wheel, so that the average wheel with such an average rim can be sprayed with cleaning liquid completely within a certain horizontal distance range, regardless of the horizontal distance, without the cleaning liquid being sprayed from the side of the rim.

[0030] In one design of the device according to the invention, the side of the second lower portion is horizontally oriented and the side of the first lower portion is inclined downward at a certain angle, as described above, so that vehicle rims of different sizes can also be fully loaded with cleaning liquid without the cleaning liquid being sprayed from the side across the corresponding rim.

[0031] According to another design, the diameter of the rim and its vertical position above the ground can be determined, for example, by detection or by transmitting data. Based on the size and position of the rim, the vertical position of the nozzle can then be set. In this case, the nozzle can, for example, move vertically. In this way, rims of different sizes and at different distances from the ground can be sprayed with cleaning liquid in a specific horizontal area regardless of their horizontal distance from the nozzle, ensuring that the rim is fully loaded with cleaning liquid without the cleaning liquid being sprayed beside the rim.

[0032] The present invention also relates to a method for applying a cleaning liquid to a vehicle component, wherein the cleaning liquid is sprayed toward the vehicle component to be cleaned by means of an upper nozzle in a first spray geometry, wherein the first spray geometry is defined in a first vertical cross-section from the upper nozzle by a first upper side and a first lower side boundary, the first upper side and the first lower side forming a first angle with each other, and the cleaning liquid is sprayed toward the vehicle component to be cleaned by means of a lower nozzle vertically spaced apart from the upper nozzle in a second spray geometry, wherein the second spray geometry is defined in a second vertical cross-section from the lower nozzle by a second upper side and a second lower side boundary, the second upper side and the second lower side forming a second angle with each other. Here, in the vertical projection, a first straight line extending through the first upper side and a second straight line extending through the second lower side form an angle of less than 10 degrees, particularly less than 5 degrees, and the first lower side and the second upper side intersect in the spray direction of the cleaning liquid.

[0033] The method according to the invention can be performed in particular by the device according to the invention. The method has the same advantages as the device according to the invention.

[0034] According to an improved form of the method according to the invention, the vertical positions of the upper edge and / or the lower edge of the vehicle component to be cleaned are determined, and the vertical position of the upper nozzle is set to correspond to the vertical position of the upper edge of the vehicle component to be cleaned, and / or the vertical position of the lower nozzle is set to correspond to the vertical position of the lower edge of the vehicle component to be cleaned. In this way, the vertical positions of one or both nozzles can be matched to the vertical area of ​​the vehicle component to be cleaned, however, the horizontal distance between the vehicle component and the nozzle can be varied without causing the cleaning fluid to pass by the vehicle component and be sprayed, or without the area of ​​the vehicle component being loaded with cleaning fluid.

[0035] According to one embodiment of the method according to the invention, the first lower side edge contacts the vehicle component to be cleaned above its lower edge. Alternatively or additionally, the second upper side edge contacts the vehicle component to be cleaned, particularly below its upper edge. Thus, areas are formed on the vehicle component to be cleaned where only the cleaning liquid ejected from the upper nozzle contacts, and areas are formed where only the cleaning liquid ejected from the lower nozzle contacts. Between these areas, areas are formed where the cleaning liquid ejected from both the upper and lower nozzles contacts. In this way, it is reliably achieved that the vehicle component to be cleaned is fully loaded with cleaning liquid, yet no cleaning liquid is sprayed past the vehicle component to be cleaned.

[0036] If the upper and lower nozzles are staggered in a direction perpendicular to the first or second cross-section, and the vehicle component moves relative to the nozzles along this direction, then in the method according to the invention, the nozzles are specifically manipulated such that the cleaning liquid is ejected from the nozzles at staggered times. This ensures that the relative positions of the vehicle component with respect to the nozzles ejecting the cleaning liquid are the same in a direction perpendicular to the first or second cross-section. In particular, this direction is horizontally oriented in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle, i.e., the direction of movement. Attached Figure Description

[0037] The invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0038] Figure 1 The diagram illustrates a vertical cross-section of an embodiment of the device according to the invention, the jet geometry produced by the nozzle, and the vehicle component to be cleaned.

[0039] Figure 2An embodiment of a vehicle washing facility having the device according to the invention is shown as a sub-view in a vertical cross-section. Detailed Implementation

[0040] Reference Figure 1 An embodiment of the device 10 according to the present invention is described:

[0041] The device 10 includes a first nozzle 1 and a second nozzle 2. Nozzles 1 and 2 are flat jet nozzles. However, other types of nozzles may be used in other embodiments. Cleaning fluid is supplied under pressure to the first nozzle 1 via a first supply line 4 and to the second nozzle 2 via a second supply line 5 via a central supply line 3. The cleaning fluid is ejected from the outlets of nozzles 1 and 2 with specific jet geometry, respectively.

[0042] The first nozzle 1 is disposed above the second nozzle 2, spaced apart in the vertical direction y. In the embodiment, the first nozzle 1 is disposed directly above the second nozzle 2. It is positioned along the horizontal direction, i.e., the x-direction, and perpendicular to... Figure 1 The drawing plane does not have a staggered portion in the z-direction. Therefore, the first nozzle 1 is also called the upper nozzle 1, and the second nozzle is also called the lower nozzle 2. The distance V of the upper nozzle 1 from the lower nozzle 2 in the vertical y-direction is selected in relation to the vertical extension of the vehicle component 6 to be cleaned.

[0043] Vehicle component 6 is particularly the wheel rim 7. However, it can also be a door sill or any other vehicle component 6 in the same way. Vehicle components extend particularly perpendicular to the x-direction.

[0044] In the following text, it is assumed that a cleaning fluid will be sprayed onto vehicle component 6. However, it is also possible in the same way to apply the cleaning fluid to only specific surface areas of the vehicle component, rather than the entire component. In this case, the area to be sprayed corresponds to vehicle component 6 in size and orientation, as shown in... Figure 1 As shown in the diagram.

[0045] exist Figure 1 The diagram shows a vertical cross-section along the xy-plane, which intersects the outlets of nozzles 1 and 2. In this cross-section along the xy-plane, the first jet geometry 1-3, originating from the upper nozzle 1 or its outlet, is defined by a first upper side 1-1 and a first lower side 1-2. These two sides 1-1 and 1-2 here form a first angle α1 with each other in the xy-plane. Depending on the type of nozzle, the cleaning liquid can optionally be jetted not only substantially along the xy-plane but also additionally in other directions.

[0046] In the case of a flat jet nozzle, the area sprayed by nozzles 1 and 2 in the yz plane is rectangular. However, in the case of other types of nozzles, this area can also have a circular or elliptical circumference.

[0047] In the embodiment of the device, the first upper side 1-1 is horizontal, i.e., oriented along the x-direction. In the outlet of the upper nozzle 1, the first lower side 1-2 and the first upper side 1-1 form an angle of 41 degrees in the xy plane, such that the first lower side 1-2 is oriented obliquely downward in the xy plane.

[0048] If there is a vehicle component 6 to be cleaned at a horizontal distance in the x-direction, and the surface to be cleaned extends in the y-direction in a vertical section along the xy plane, at a horizontal distance H3 away from the outlet of the upper nozzle 1, then the vehicle component 6 is loaded with cleaning liquid sprayed from the upper nozzle 1. This surface extends downward from the intersection point d of the first upper side 1-1 and the vehicle component 6 to the intersection point b of the first lower side 1-2 and the vehicle component 6. In the vertical y-direction, the length of the surface loaded with cleaning liquid is thus H3*tan(α1). The length of the area of ​​the vehicle component 6 loaded with cleaning liquid in the vertical y-direction is therefore related to the horizontal distance H3 of the vehicle component 6 from the outlet of the upper nozzle 1 in the x-direction.

[0049] The lower nozzle 2 ejects a cleaning liquid having a second jet geometry 2-3. The second jet geometry 2-3, in a vertical cross-section along the xy-plane, is defined by a second upper side 2-1 and a second lower side 2-2, starting from the lower nozzle 2 or its outlet. Sides 2-1 and 2-2 form an angle α2 between them. Within this angle α2, the cleaning liquid is ejected in the xy-plane. Depending on the type of nozzle, the cleaning liquid may optionally also be ejected in other directions.

[0050] exist Figure 1 In the embodiment shown, the second lower side 2-2 is oriented horizontally along the x-direction in the vertical xy-plane. The second upper side 2-1 and the second lower side 2-2 form an angle α2, which extends obliquely upward from the outlet of the lower nozzle 2 in the xy-plane, such that it intersects the first lower side 1-2 at intersection g before the second lower side touches the vehicle component 6. Angles α1 and α2 are therefore chosen in relation to the horizontal distance H3 from the outlets of nozzles 1 and 2 in the x-direction of the vehicle component, such that the intersection point is located in front of the vehicle component 6 in the horizontal x-direction.

[0051] In the vertical cross-section of the xy plane, the area of ​​cleaning liquid loaded onto the lower nozzle 2 of the vehicle component 6 in the vertical y direction extends upward from the intersection point a of the second lower side 2-2, which is horizontally oriented along the x direction, and the vehicle component 6, to the intersection point c of the second upper side 2-1 and the vehicle component 6. The length of this area in the vertical y direction is H3*tan(α2).

[0052] From point a, where the second lower side 2-2 intersects with vehicle component 6, to point b, where the first lower side 1-2 intersects with vehicle component 6, vehicle component 6 is sprayed in the y-direction in a vertical cross-section along the xy plane only by the cleaning liquid already ejected through the lower nozzle 2. From point b, to point c, where the second upper side 2-1 intersects with vehicle component 6, vehicle component 6 is sprayed in the y-direction not only by the cleaning liquid ejected through the lower nozzle 2 but also by the cleaning liquid ejected through the upper nozzle 1. From point c, to point d, where the first upper side 1-1 intersects with vehicle component 6, vehicle component 6 is sprayed in the y-direction only by the cleaning liquid already ejected through the upper nozzle 1.

[0053] If vehicle component 6 extends from intersection a to intersection d, or if only the area between intersection a and intersection d is loaded with cleaning fluid in the y-direction, then cleaning fluid not ejected via nozzles 1 and 2 is sprayed from the side of vehicle component 6 or the area of ​​vehicle component 6 to be cleaned. This area of ​​vehicle component 6 from which cleaning fluid does not pass extends in the x-direction to a horizontal distance H2 from the nozzle outlets of nozzles 1 and 2. This horizontal distance H2 extends to the intersection e of the first lower side 1-2 and the second lower side 2-2, or the intersection f of the second upper side 2-1 and the first upper side 1-2, depending on which intersection e or f is closer to the nozzle outlets of nozzles 1 and 2 in the horizontal x-direction. Cleaning fluid is sprayed from the side of vehicle component 6 below or above only from a horizontal distance greater than H2 in the x-direction.

[0054] On the other hand, the vehicle component 6, or the area of ​​the vehicle component in the y-direction between intersections a and d, is completely loaded with cleaning fluid, with a larger amount hitting the vehicle component 6 in the area between intersections b and c, because in this area, cleaning fluid from both the upper nozzle 1 and the lower nozzle 2 hits the vehicle component 6. This complete coverage of the vehicle component 6 continues until it is below the horizontal distance H1 from the nozzle 1 and 2 outlets in the x-direction of the vehicle component 6. This horizontal distance H1 in the x-direction is the horizontal distance from the nozzle 1 and 2 outlets along the x-direction from the intersection g of the first lower side 1-2 and the second upper side 2-1.

[0055] If vehicle component 6 moves closer to nozzles 1 and 2 in the horizontal x-direction compared to distance H1, an area without cleaning fluid is created in the middle. However, a tolerance range exists in the horizontal x-direction between distances H1 and H2, within which vehicle component 6, oriented perpendicular to the x-direction, can be located. This means that vehicle component 6 is fully loaded with cleaning fluid on the one hand, and on the other hand, no cleaning fluid is sprayed past vehicle component 6. If vehicle component 6 can be guaranteed to be located in this area in the x-direction, then it is not necessary to change the distance of vehicle component 6 from the nozzle outlets of nozzles 1 and 2 in the x-direction, so as to ensure that vehicle component 6 is fully loaded with cleaning fluid on the one hand, and to prevent cleaning fluid from being sprayed past vehicle component 6 on the other hand.

[0056] exist Figure 1 In the embodiment shown, the nozzles 1 and 2 have their outlets in the same position in the x-direction. In other embodiments, it is possible for the nozzles 1 and 2 to be staggered in the x-direction. For example, if the lower nozzle 2 is positioned closer to the vehicle component 6 in the x-direction, the positions of intersection points g and f change. In this case, the angle α2 can be adjusted so that intersection point f is in the same position as intersection point e in the x-direction. In this case, the position of intersection point g moves in the x-direction. However, furthermore, a region is formed in the horizontal x-direction in which the vehicle component 6 can be positioned without the cleaning fluid being sprayed in a way that passes by, wherein the vehicle component 6 is simultaneously and completely loaded with the cleaning fluid.

[0057] In other embodiments, alternatively or additionally, the nozzle outlet can be along the z-direction, i.e., perpendicular to the vertical cross-section. Figure 1 The plane shown is offset from the nozzle outlet of another nozzle. In this case, the vertical cross-sections do not coincide in the xy plane passing through the nozzle outlet of the upper nozzle 1 or the lower nozzle 2. A first vertical cross-section passing through the nozzle outlet of the upper nozzle 1 and a second vertical cross-section passing through the nozzle 2 are obtained. These cross-sections are parallel to each other. In this case, the jet geometry 1-3 and 2-3 will not intersect because the cross-sections under consideration are parallel to each other and spaced apart. However, in this case, if the vertical projection along the z-direction onto the xy plane is considered, then the following is obtained: Figure 1 The view described in the figure, in which the sides 1-3 and 2-3 of the jet geometry intersect, makes the above description applicable to this vertical projection in this case.

[0058] The pressure applied to nozzles 1 and 2 from supply lines 4 and 5 is such that the volume of liquid ejected from the upper nozzle 1 at the outlet moves approximately toward vehicle component 6 along a straight line along the first upper side 1-1, the first lower side 1-2, or any other straight line within an angle α1. The downward deflection due to gravity is negligible here. Similarly, the volume of liquid ejected from the lower nozzle 2 at the outlet moves approximately toward vehicle component 6 along a straight line along the second upper side 2-1, the second lower side 2-2, or any other straight line within an angle α2. In this case, the downward decrease in liquid volume due to gravity is also negligible.

[0059] In other embodiments, it is feasible that although the first upper side 1-1 extends parallel to the second lower side 2-2, these two sides 1-1 and 2-2 are not oriented horizontally in the x-direction, but rather form an angle with the x-direction. In particular, when the surface of the vehicle component 6 to be cleaned does not extend perpendicular to the x-direction (i.e., in...) Figure 1 The orientation of sides 1-1 and 2-2 is chosen such that, instead of extending along the y-direction in the cross-section shown, they form an angle with the y-direction. In this case, the angle formed by sides 1-1 and 2-2 with the x-direction is specifically chosen such that sides 1-1 and 2-2 perpendicularly contact vehicle component 6 or the surface of the vehicle component to be cleaned. Thus, in this case, a tolerance range is also created for vehicle component 6 in the direction forming the same angle with the x-direction as sides 1-1 and 2-2, within which vehicle component 6 is fully sprayed, but the cleaning liquid does not pass by vehicle component 6 during spraying.

[0060] In some other embodiments, the side 1-1 of the first upper portion extends not precisely parallel to the side 2-2 of the second lower portion. In this case, Figure 1 In the cross-section shown in the xy-plane, or in the aforementioned vertical projection onto this plane, an angle is created between the first straight line G1 extending through the side 1-1 of the first upper part and the second straight line G2 extending through the side 2-2 of the second lower part. The intersection of the lines G1 and G2 forming this angle can be located in the direction of the cleaning liquid ejection or can be opposite to the direction of the cleaning liquid ejection. According to the invention, this angle is less than 10 degrees, particularly less than 5 degrees, and preferably less than 3 degrees. When the angle is so small, although no tolerance range is created in the horizontal x-direction, within which no cleaning liquid is sprayed from the side of the vehicle component 6 regardless of the horizontal distance of the vehicle component 6 from the nozzles 1 and 2 in the x-direction and the vehicle component 6 is fully loaded with liquid, at least the following area is created in the x-direction: in this area only a small amount of cleaning liquid is sprayed from the side of the vehicle component 6, or a very small area is not fully loaded with cleaning liquid.

[0061] In another embodiment, the second lower side 2-2 is oriented horizontally, i.e., parallel to the x-direction, while the first upper side 1-1 is inclined downward in the xy-plane, i.e., it forms an angle with the x-direction. This angle is in the range of 6 degrees to 8 degrees, and in particular, the angle is 8 degrees.

[0062] This embodiment is particularly advantageous when the device is used in a vehicle washing facility for vehicles with different rim or wheel sizes. The second lower side 2-2, with its horizontal orientation, approximately always intersects the lower edge of the vehicle rim 7 regardless of wheel size, provided that the lower nozzle 2 is positioned at the height of this lower edge, and it is approximately assumed that this lower edge has approximately the same distance from the ground regardless of wheel or rim size. Conversely, the first upper side 1-1 abuts the wheel or vehicle rim 7 in a vertical position related to the horizontal distance of the wheel from the nozzles 1 and 2. However, typically, this horizontal distance of the vehicle rim 7 from the nozzle is smaller in vehicles with a larger wheelbase than in vehicles with a smaller wheelbase. Simultaneously, the rim diameter of vehicles with a larger wheelbase is generally larger than that of vehicles with a smaller wheelbase. This results in a smaller horizontal distance from the nozzle to the larger vehicle rim 7 compared to the smaller vehicle rim 7 in the vehicle washing facility. Because the first upper side 1-1 further upwards to contact the horizontal vehicle rim closer to the nozzles 1 and 2 and further downwards to contact the horizontal vehicle rim 7 further away from the nozzles 1 and 2, the inclination of the first upper side 1-1 in the vehicle washing facility compensates for the different positions and sizes of the different vehicle rims 7, so that the vehicle rim 7 can be sprayed completely, essentially regardless of its size, and the cleaning liquid will not pass by the vehicle rim 7 to be sprayed.

[0063] If the surface of vehicle component 6 to be cleaned does not extend perpendicular to the x-direction or perpendicular to the side 1-1 of the first upper part, but is a curved surface, then the above statements apply accordingly, in which case there may be some variation in the ideal horizontal distance range of vehicle component 6.

[0064] In another embodiment, nozzles 1 and 2 are rotatably arranged about an axis extending in the x-direction and intersecting at point g. In this case, the first and second supply lines 4 and 5 are coupled to nozzles 1 and 2 such that this rotation of nozzles 1 and 2 is feasible. In this case, a cleaning liquid can be sprayed onto the surface by means of nozzles 1 and 2, which are disc-shaped in the yz plane.

[0065] Figure 2A vehicle washing facility is shown, which includes the aforementioned device 10 for applying cleaning liquid. Here, only a portion of the vehicle washing facility and only the upper nozzle 1 and the lower nozzle 2 of the device 10 are shown.

[0066] The vehicle washing facility can be a gate-type washing facility or a car wash line, which are known by themselves. In this case, the device 10 is configured to spray a cleaning liquid onto the outward-facing surface 8 of the vehicle's rim 7. The surface 8 can then be cleaned with a rim brush in the vehicle washing facility. The nozzles 1 and 2 of the device 10 are configured in the vertical y-direction such that the lower edge 9 of the surface 8 to be cleaned on the rim 7 is located at a distance V1 above the ground 12, and there is a vertical distance V2 in the y-direction between the lower edge 9 and the upper edge 11 of the surface 8 to be cleaned. The distance V1 is, for example, 60 mm, while the distance V2 is 520 mm, such that the upper edge 11 of the surface 8 to be cleaned is located 580 mm above the ground 12.

[0067] In this configuration, in the vehicle washing facility, the upper nozzle 1 of the device 10 is positioned at a distance in the y-direction above the ground 12, corresponding to the sum of distances V1 and V2. The lower nozzle 2 is positioned at a distance in the y-direction above the ground 12, corresponding to distance V1. Angles α1 and α2 are selected such that the horizontal distance from the intersection point b to the outlet position of nozzles 1 and 2 in the x-direction is H1, and the horizontal distance from the outlet position of the intersection point f, which is closer to the intersection point e than the intersection point e, to the outlet position is H2. For example, the horizontal distance H1 is 300 mm, and the horizontal distance H2 is 650 mm. Therefore, a tolerance range of 350 mm in length in the x-direction is created between distances H1 and H2, within which the surface 8 of the rim 7 to be cleaned can be positioned without the cleaning liquid passing by the surface 8 to be cleaned, wherein the surface 8 to be cleaned is simultaneously and completely loaded with cleaning liquid from nozzles 1 and 2.

[0068] In another embodiment, nozzles 1 and 2 are movably positioned in the vertical y-direction. Furthermore, in these embodiments, the diameter of the rim 7, i.e., distance V2, and the vehicle's wheel size can be detected, allowing distance V1 to be calculated as well. For this purpose, sensors can be provided, for example. Alternatively, the rim size and wheel size can also be transmitted as a dataset to the vehicle washing facility. The positions of the nozzle outlets in the y-direction can then be moved such that the lower nozzle 2 is positioned at height V1, while the upper nozzle is positioned at a height derived from the sum of distances V1 and V2.

[0069] An embodiment of the method according to the present invention for applying a cleaning liquid to a vehicle component 6 is described below:

[0070] As described above, device 10 is installed in a vehicle washing facility, such as a gantry washing system. Nozzles 1 and 2 are positioned at the height of the vehicle component 6 to be cleaned, i.e., at the height of the vehicle rim 7 in the current embodiment, in the lower region of the gantry, as shown in reference... Figure 2 As described. The position of rim 7 is detected by means of a sensor, and the gantry moves toward rim 7 along the z-direction, such that the position of the axis of rim 7 in the z-direction coincides with the position of nozzles 1 and 2 in the z-direction.

[0071] Optionally, the wheel type and rim type of the vehicle to be cleaned are detected. Distances V1 and V2 are determined accordingly. If nozzles 1 and 2 are movable in the vertical y-direction, their height positioning is as shown in the reference... Figure 2 As described and as in Figure 2 Positioned as shown in the diagram.

[0072] The cleaning liquid is then sprayed from the nozzles 1 and 2 toward the surface 8 of the rim 7 to be cleaned in a first spray geometry 1-2 and a second spray geometry 2-3. Here, the cleaning liquid is sprayed not only in the xy plane but also in both the positive and negative z directions, ensuring that the surface 8 of the rim 7 to be cleaned is completely sprayed with the cleaning liquid. The surface 8 to be cleaned is located at a horizontal distance from the nozzles 1 and 2 in the x-direction, the horizontal distance being between distances H1 and H2.

[0073] If the surface to be cleaned is not completely detected in the z-direction, the gantry reciprocates in the z-direction, causing the entire surface to be cleaned 8 to be sprayed with cleaning liquid.

[0074] If the upper nozzle 1 and the lower nozzle 2 are staggered in the z-direction, then nozzles 1 and 2 are manipulated such that the cleaning fluid is ejected from nozzles 1 and 2 at staggered times. Here, the ejection of the cleaning fluid occurs at times when the position of the rim axis in the z-direction coincides with the position of the corresponding nozzles 1 and 2. To enable the staggered manipulation of nozzles 1 and 2, electronically controllable valves are installed in the first and second supply lines 4 and 5, coupled to a control device that is in turn coupled to a sensor for detecting the vehicle's position in the z-direction.

[0075] Conversely, if nozzles 1 and 2 are rotatably arranged about an axis as described above, the axis extending in the x-direction and intersecting the intersection point g, then when the rim axis is located in the z-direction at the positions of the two nozzles 1 and 2 in the z-direction, the disc-shaped rim 7 is fully loaded with cleaning liquid.

[0076] Figure Labels

[0077] 1 First nozzle

[0078] 1-1 First upper side

[0079] 1-2 First lower side

[0080] 1-3 First injection geometry

[0081] 2 Second nozzle

[0082] 2-1 Second upper side

[0083] 2-2 First lower side

[0084] 2-3 Second Injection Geometry

[0085] 3. Central supply pipeline

[0086] 4 First Supply Pipeline

[0087] 5 Second supply pipeline

[0088] 6 Vehicle Components

[0089] 7. Wheel rims

[0090] 8. The surface of rim 7 that needs cleaning

[0091] 9. Lower edge

[0092] 10 devices

[0093] 11 Upper edge

[0094] 12 ground

Claims

1. A device (10) for applying a cleaning liquid to a vehicle component (6), The device includes an upper nozzle (1) for spraying cleaning liquid in a first spray geometry (1-3). The first jet geometry (1-3) is defined in a first vertical cross-section from the upper nozzle (1) by a first upper side (1-1) and a first lower side (1-2), the first upper side and the first lower side forming a first angle (α1) with each other. The device (10) includes a nozzle (2) at the lower part for spraying cleaning liquid in a second spray geometry (2-3). The second jet geometry (2-3) is defined in a second vertical cross-section from the lower nozzle (2) by a second upper side (2-1) and a second lower side (2-2), the second upper side and the second lower side forming a second angle (α2) with each other. The upper nozzle (1) is disposed above the lower nozzle (2) in a vertical direction at a distance from it. Its features are, In the vertical projection, a first straight line (G1) extending through the first upper side (1-1) and a second straight line (G2) extending through the second lower side (2-2) form an angle of less than 10 degrees, and the first lower side (1-2) intersects the second upper side (2-1) in the direction of the cleaning liquid ejection, wherein the vertical projection lies in a vertical cross-section. The first upper side (1-1) and / or the second lower side (2-2) are oriented horizontally.

2. The device (10) according to claim 1, Its features are, The first vertical cross section and the second vertical cross section coincide.

3. The device (10) according to claim 1, Its features are, The first vertical cross section is spaced apart from the second vertical cross section, and the upper nozzle (1) is spaced apart from the lower nozzle (2) in the vertical and / or horizontal directions.

4. The device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, Its features are, The first upper side (1-1) and the second lower side (2-2) are oriented parallel to each other.

5. The device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, Its features are, The first angle and / or the second angle are in the range of 30 degrees to 50 degrees.

6. The device (10) according to claim 5, Its features are, The first angle and / or the second angle are in the range of 35 degrees to 45 degrees.

7. The device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, Its features are, The second lower side (2-2) is oriented horizontally, while the first upper side (1-1) is tilted downward at an angle ranging from 6 to 10 degrees.

8. The device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, Its features are, The upper nozzle (1) and / or the lower nozzle (2) are solid cone nozzles and / or flat nozzles.

9. The device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, Its features are, The nozzles (1, 2) are fixed relative to the device (10).

10. The device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, Its features are, The nozzles (1, 2) are rotatably arranged around a horizontally oriented axis.

11. The device (10) according to claim 10, Its features are, The axis intersects the intersection of the first lower side (1-2) and the second upper side (2-1).

12. The device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, Its features are, The jet geometry of the first and second vertical cross sections, which is a combination of the first jet geometry (1-3) and the second jet geometry (2-3), is mirror-symmetric.

13. A vehicle washing facility having a device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, and the vehicle washing facility being used to clean at least one rim (7) of a vehicle to be cleaned, wherein the vertical distance (V) between the upper nozzle (1) and the lower nozzle (2) corresponds to the diameter (V2) of the rim (7) to be cleaned, and the distance of the upper nozzle (1) from the ground corresponds to the distance of the upper edge (11) of the rim (7) from the ground (12), and the distance of the lower nozzle (2) from the ground (12) corresponds to the distance (V1) of the lower edge (9) of the rim (7) from the ground (12).

14. A method for applying a cleaning fluid to a vehicle component (6), wherein Cleaning liquid is sprayed toward the vehicle component (6) to be cleaned in a first spray geometry (1-3) by means of an upper nozzle (1), wherein the first spray geometry (1-3) is defined in a first vertical cross-section from the upper nozzle (1) by a first upper side (1-1) and a first lower side (1-2), the first upper side and the first lower side forming a first angle (α1) with each other, and Cleaning liquid is sprayed toward the vehicle component (6) to be cleaned in a second spray geometry (2-3) by means of a lower nozzle (2) vertically spaced apart from the upper nozzle (1), wherein the second spray geometry (2-3) is defined in a second vertical cross-section from the lower nozzle (2) by a second upper side (2-1) and a second lower side (2-2), the second upper side and the second lower side forming a second angle (α2) with each other. In the vertical projection, a first straight line (G1) extending through the first upper side (1-1) and a second straight line (G2) extending through the second lower side (2-2) form an angle of less than 10 degrees, and the first lower side (1-2) intersects the second upper side (2-1) in the direction of the cleaning liquid ejection, wherein the vertical projection is located in a vertical cross-section. The first upper side (1-1) and / or the second lower side (2-2) are oriented horizontally.

15. The method according to claim 14, Its features are, Determine the vertical position of the upper edge (11) and / or the lower edge (9) of the vehicle component (6) to be cleaned, and set the vertical position of the upper nozzle (1) to correspond to the vertical position of the upper edge (11) of the vehicle component (6) to be cleaned, and / or set the vertical position of the lower nozzle (2) to correspond to the vertical position of the lower edge (9) of the vehicle component (6) to be cleaned.

16. The method according to claim 15, Its features are, The first lower side (1-2) touches the vehicle component (6) to be cleaned above the lower edge (9) of the vehicle component (6) to be cleaned.

17. The method according to claim 15 or 16, Its features are, The second upper side (2-1) touches the vehicle component (6) to be cleaned below the upper edge (11) of the vehicle component (6) to be cleaned.

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