Engine cleaning apparatus and operating method thereof

Abstract

An engine cleaning apparatus (1) configured to provide a cleaning fluid (FP) based on oxyhydrogen (HHO) to an internal combustion engine (2) of a motor vehicle (3) to clean the internal combustion engine (2) from carbon-based deposits. The engine cleaning apparatus comprises a cooling system (30) comprising a first heat exchanger (12) which is coupled to a container (10) of the electrolysis cell (9), a second heat exchanger (13) which is arranged outside the electrolytic cell (9), a hydraulic circuit (14) which hydraulically connects the first heat exchanger (12) to the second heat exchanger (13) and through which a cooling fluid (FR) flows, a pumping device (15) which is arranged along the hydraulic circuit (14) and is configured to circulate the cooling fluid (FR) in the hydraulic circuit (14) between the first heat exchanger (12) and the second heat exchanger (13) to cool the electrolytic solution (ML) contained in the container (10) .

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This patent application claims priority from Italian patent application no. 102024000003829 filed on February 23, 2024, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] This invention relates to an engine cleaning apparatus configured to clean vehicle internal combustion engines and its method of operation.

[0003] As is well known, internal combustion engines are subject, during fuel combustion, to the internal deposit of carbon-based residues, generally referred to as "carbon deposits", which over time tend to accumulate in the engine, forming encrustations that adversely affect engine combustion efficiency, engine performance and emissions.

[0004] To this end, engine cleaning apparatuses have been developed, which are generally used in garages to perform so-called decarbonisation cycles (removal of carbon deposits), during which an oxyhydrogen-based cleaning fluid is fed into the engine for a predetermined cycle duration. When performing the decarbonisation cycle, the cleaning fluid passes through the internal ducts and / or internal chambers of the stationary vehicle engine, and decomposes the carbon encrustation particles in them. The particles are burnt and / or expelled from the engine, decarbonising the engine, i.e. cleaning it of carbon deposits.

[0005] The above-mentioned engine-cleaning apparatuses are generally equipped with an electrolysis cell that uses an electrolyte solution comprising water and an electrolyte, and performs an electrolysis process to generate the oxyhydrogen to be used in the cleaning cycle.

[0006] A technical problem with the above-mentioned apparatuses is that during the electrolysis process, the electrolysis cell generates a significant amount of thermal energy, which, on the one hand, affects the stability of the electrolysis process and the efficiency of oxyhydrogen generation, and, on the other hand, increases the temperature of the hydrogen and oxygen, thus creating conditions potentially hazardous to combustion.DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0007] The purpose of this invention is therefore to provide an engine cleaning apparatus, which overcomes the above-mentioned technical drawback.

[0008] In accordance with this purpose, according to this invention, an engine cleaning apparatus and its operation method is provided, as defined in the related independent claims, and preferably, but not necessarily, in any one of the claims dependent thereon.

[0009] The claims describe preferred embodiments of this invention forming an integral part of this description.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] This invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate a non-limiting embodiment thereof, wherein: Figure 1 shows an engine cleaning apparatus, with parts removed for clarity and parts illustrated schematically, produced according to the precepts of this invention, Figure 2 schematically shows a hydraulic system of an engine cleaning apparatus produced according to the precepts of this invention, Figure 3 is a perspective view of a hydraulic system of an engine cleaning apparatus produced according to the precepts of this invention, Figure 4 is a perspective view with parts removed for clarity of the hydraulic system shown in Figure 3, Figure 5 is a side elevation view, with parts removed for clarity, of the electrolysis cell comprised in the hydraulic system shown in Figure 3, Figure 6 is a cross section VI-VI of the electrolysis cell shown in the figure comprised in the hydraulic system shown in Figure 3, Figure 7 is a plan view of the electrolysis cell shown in the figure comprised in the hydraulic system shown in Figure 3, Figure 8 is a cross section VIII-VIII of the electrolysis cell shown in the figure comprised in the hydraulic system shown in Figure 3, Figure 9 schematically shows a hydraulic system of an engine cleaning apparatus produced according to one embodiment of this invention, Figure 10 is a perspective view of a hydraulic system of an engine cleaning apparatus produced according to the embodiment, Figure 11 is a perspective view with parts removed for clarity of the hydraulic system shown in Figure 10. PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

[0011] With reference to Figure 1, reference number 1 denotes, as a whole, an engine cleaning apparatus that is designed to carry out at least one cleaning cycle (decarbonisation cycle) on internal combustion engines 2.

[0012] The engine cleaning apparatus 1 is preferably designed to perform one or more cleaning (decarbonisation) cycles on one or more internal combustion engines 2, i.e. thermal / endothermic engines of vehicles 3. The cleaning cycle(s) are carried out when the vehicle 3 is stationary, e.g. in a garage ready for maintenance. Conveniently, the engine cleaning apparatus 1 performs a cleaning cycle when the internal combustion engine 2 of the vehicle 3 is running, i.e. in use, and the vehicle 3 is stationary (e.g. in the workshop). The thermal / endothermic engine is widely known and will not be described further except to point out that it is designed to be powered, during its normal use, through internal ducts / inlet openings, by a fuel (petrol, diesel, gas, or the like) and a comburent (air, or the like). The vehicle 3 is also widely known and will not be described further except to point out that it may comprise, for example, a motor vehicle (as shown in Figure 1), a motorbike, or any similar vehicle that is equipped with an endothermic engine (truck or bus, etc.).

[0013] However, it is understood that, in addition or alternatively, according to this invention the engine cleaning apparatus 1 is not to be considered limited to the cleaning of motor vehicle engines but may also be applied, in addition or alternatively, to perform cleaning on endothermic engines installed in vehicles such as boats or aircraft (piston engines). However, it is understood that, in addition or alternatively, according to this invention the engine cleaning apparatus 1 is not to be considered limited to the cleaning of motor vehicle engines but may also be applied, additionally, to perform cleaning on an endothermic engine installed in a power generator unit provided with an uninterruptible power supply or any system comprising an endothermic engine.

[0014] The engine cleaning apparatus 1 is designed to perform one or more cleaning cycles during which it injects a cleaning fluid FP into the internal combustion engine 2. According to this invention, the cleaning fluid FP is essentially (predominantly) in a gaseous state and comprises oxyhydrogen HHO, i.e. a gaseous mixture of hydrogen and oxygen.

[0015] In the example shown in Figure 1, the engine cleaning apparatus 1 comprises a casing or boxed frame 4, e.g. with a parallelepiped shape, wheels resting on the ground (not illustrated) and at least one injection duct 5, which is configured to be hydraulically connected / coupled to the engine 2 to inject the cleaning fluid FP into it. The injection duct 5 extends outside the box frame 4 and is designed to be hydraulically coupled to the engine 2 so that it can be easily separated. For example, the injection duct 5 may be a preferably flexible hose fitted at the free end with a connector hydraulically connected to one or more suction inlet or injection openings or ducts of the combustion chamber (not shown) of the internal combustion engine 2.

[0016] The engine cleaning apparatus 1 comprises a hydraulic generator system, hereinafter referred to as the hydraulic system 6, which is designed to generate the cleaning fluid FP to feed it in a controlled manner into the engine 2 through the duct 5, and a control system 7 configured to control the hydraulic system 6 so as to: regulate the amount / flow rate of the cleaning fluid FP injected into the internal combustion engine 2 during a cleaning cycle, and / or adjust the duration of the cleaning cycle itself.

[0017] According to the preferred embodiment shown in Figure 1, the hydraulic system 6 is preferably arranged within the frame 4 and has at least one connector that is hydraulically connected to the duct 5 to supply it with the cleaning fluid FP.

[0018] The control system 7 may comprise one or more electrical / electronic control units / modules (not illustrated) and / or electronic circuits configured to implement control programs to monitor the operation of the apparatus 1, and may be electrically connected to a control panel 27 to receive commands from the operator. The operator's commands can be processed by the control system 7 to configure / set the cleaning cycle in order to define its characteristics, e.g. its duration and / or the quantity / flow rate of the cleaning fluid FP.

[0019] With reference to Figure 2, the hydraulic system 6 is equipped with an electrolysis device 8. The electrolysis device 8 comprises at least one electrolysis cell 9 equipped with plates or electrodes 11, which are immersed in an electrolyte solution ML. The electrolyte solution ML is in a predominantly liquid state and consists of a solvent and an electrolyte.

[0020] The electrolysis device 8 can be adjusted using the control system 7. Conveniently, the control system 7 controls an electrical quantity (current / voltage) fed / supplied to the electrodes 11 (with positive and negative polarity) to carry out the electrolysis process, in a way that is known in itself, and therefore not described in detail.

[0021] The solvent may comprise water in a liquid state, e.g. demineralised water. The electrolyte may comprise a solution in a liquid state having a predetermined concentration of saline compounds, for example based on hydroxide, potassium hydroxide (KOH), sodium hydroxide (NaOH). The electrolyte concentration in the electrolyte solution ML can be comprised in a predetermined concentration range, it may preferably have a predetermined value. The concentration range or predetermined value can be determined so as to ensure proper / efficient operation of the electrolysis cell 9.

[0022] According to a preferred embodiment of this invention shown in Figures 2, 3-8, the electrolysis cell 9 is provided with a closed container 10 containing the electrolyte solution ML. The electrodes 11 may comprise plates of electrically conductive material that are immersed in the electrolyte solution ML and are configured to subject the electrolyte solution ML to the electrolysis process to generate the cleaning fluid FP.

[0023] According to a preferred embodiment, the hydraulic system 6 further comprises a cooling system 30 configured to cool the electrolyte solution ML contained within the container 10.

[0024] According to a preferred embodiment, the cooling system 30 comprises a heat exchanger 12 (first heat exchanger) that is coupled to the container 10. The hydraulic system 6 also comprises a heat exchanger 13 (second heat exchanger) that is arranged outside the electrolysis cell 9. The cooling system 30 further comprises a hydraulic circuit 14 that hydraulically connects the heat exchangers 12 and 13, one with the other, in such a way as to conveniently form a closed circuit and through which a cooling fluid FR flows. The cooling fluid FR can comprise, for example, water or any similar fluid. In use, the cooling fluid FR can be kept in an essentially liquid state.

[0025] The cooling system 30 also comprises a pumping device 15 comprising, for example, an electro-hydraulic pump. The pumping device 15 is arranged along the hydraulic circuit 14 and is configured to circulate the cooling fluid FR in the hydraulic circuit 14 between the heat exchanger 12 to absorb the heat generated by the electrolysis process in the container 10 so as to reduce the temperature T of the electrolyte solution ML contained in the container 10 and the heat exchanger 13 configured to transfer the heat of the cooling fluid FR to the environment so as to cool the cooling fluid FR.

[0026] The cooling system 30 also comprises an expansion tank 31 that contains the cooling fluid FR and is hydraulically connected to the hydraulic circuit 14.

[0027] The cooling system 30 is then configured to regulate, in use, the temperature of the electrolyte solution ML contained in the container 10 in such a way as to keep it below a predetermined temperature threshold. The predetermined temperature threshold can be around 70° C, for example.

[0028] According to a preferred embodiment shown in Figures 2, 3 and 4, the heat exchanger 12 is arranged inside the container 10 so that it is immersed in, in contact with, the electrolyte solution ML.

[0029] According to a convenient embodiment, the container 10 comprises a tubular-shaped central body 16 having a first axis A, and two plate-shaped lateral bodies 18 that are firmly coupled on the two axially opposite open sides of the central body 16 along the axis A so as to close them and internally delimit an internal electrolysis chamber 19 with the central body 16 designed to contain the electrolyte solution ML.

[0030] As shown in the example of Figures 4, 5 and 6, the heat exchanger 12 comprises a tubular serpentine 12a that consists of a plurality of coiled coils coaxial to each other. The coiled coils are preferably coaxial to an axis B orthogonal to the axis A. The tubular central body 16 preferably has a substantially rectangular cross section (orthogonal to the axis A) and the coils of the tubular serpentine 12a extend while remaining inside the central body 16, without protruding therefrom, so as to extend close to the walls of the central body 16.

[0031] Conveniently, the two plate-shaped bodies 18 can be coupled to the central body 16 on axially opposite sides by means of mechanical fasteners 27, e.g. bolts or the like. The two plate-shaped bodies 18 can be permanently fixed on their opposite perimeter edges surrounding the openings of the central body 16 in such a way as to permanently trap the central body 16 and seal the internal electrolysis chamber 19 in a watertight manner.

[0032] The two plate-shaped bodies 18 may be made of metal, e.g. steel or aluminium or the like, and have a rectangular shape corresponding to the side shape of the central body 16. The central body 16 can be conveniently made from a polymeric material (plastic). Conveniently, the central body 16 can be produced using injection moulding based on thermoplastic or thermosetting polymers or the like.

[0033] According to a convenient embodiment shown in Figures 3 and 4, a plate-shaped body 18 comprises said electrodes 11. Conveniently, the plate-shaped body 18 may comprise one or more interlocking plates made of electrically conductive material. The plates may comprise and / or integrate the electrodes 11 of the electrolysis cell 9.

[0034] According to a preferred embodiment shown in Figures 2-4, the heat exchanger 13 comprises a radiator 20. The radiator 20 may comprise a tubular serpentine 20a and be provided with cooling fins 20b coupled to the tubular serpentine 20a.

[0035] According to a preferred embodiment shown in Figures 2-4, the heat exchanger 13 further comprises at least one fan device 21 (two in the examples shown in the accompanying figures). The fan device 21 is conveniently close to, adjacent to, the radiator 20 in order to cool the cooling fluid FR circulating in it.

[0036] According to a preferred embodiment shown in Figure 2, the engine cleaning apparatus 1 also preferably comprises a temperature measuring system 22 configured to measure the temperature of the electrolyte solution ML in the container 10. The temperature measuring system 22 may comprise, for example, one or more sensors configured to provide the control system 7 with data / signals indicating the measured temperature of the electrolyte solution ML.

[0037] Conveniently, according to one possible embodiment, the control system 7 can be configured to control the pumping device 15 and / or the fan device 21 based on the measured temperature of the electrolyte solution ML.

[0038] Alternatively or additionally, the control system 7 can control the electrical quantity (current / voltage) supplied to the electrodes 11 based on the measured temperature of the electrolyte solution ML. For example, according to one possible embodiment, the control system 7 interrupts the supply of the electrical quantity (current / voltage) supplied to the electrodes 11 when the measured temperature of the electrolyte solution ML exceeds the temperature threshold so as to allow the cooling system 30 to rapidly cool the electrolyte solution ML, and supplies the electrical quantity (current / voltage) to the electrodes 11 again when the measured temperature is below the temperature threshold so as to generate the oxyhydrogen.

[0039] With reference to the embodiment shown in Figures 1-8, the electrolysis cell 9 may also comprise a container 23, which is arranged on the upper wall of the container 10, opposite the back wall. The container 23 has an internal condensation chamber 24 which is in communication with the internal electrolysis chamber 19 to receive the oxyhydrogen generated during the electrolysis process, and a series of connectors 25, one of which is intended to be connected with the duct 5 to supply the cleaning fluid FP consisting of oxyhydrogen HHO (Figure 6).

[0040] In the example shown in Figure 6, the container 23 has a roughly box-like shape, is made of metal, conveniently steel, and has protruding cooling fins.

[0041] The engine cleaning apparatus 1 also comprises at least one fan device 26 to cool the oxyhydrogen HHO in the internal condensation chamber. The fan device 26 may be arranged on a wall of the container 10 so as to face the container 23 in order to cool the oxyhydrogen HHO present in the inner condensation chamber in such a way as to condense the water vapour so as to precipitate the electrolyte particles by conveniently separating them from the oxyhydrogen HHO.

[0042] The following will describe the operation of engine cleaning apparatus 1 in which it is assumed that: the duct 5 is connected to the internal combustion engine 2 of the vehicle 3, that the control system 7 supplies the electrical quantity to the electrodes 11 to carry out the electrolysis process to generate the cleaning fluid. At this stage, the electrolysis process results in the generation of oxyhydrogen HHO, which is directed towards the connector 25 connected to the duct 5 and the temperature increases.

[0043] When the control system 7 detects that the temperature of the electrolyte solution ML measured in the container 10 is above the predetermined threshold via the temperature measuring system 22, the control system 7 activates the cooling system 30 that cools the electrolyte solution ML in the container 10. In particular, in this condition, the control system 7 can activate: the pumping device 15 that circulates the fluid FR in the hydraulic circuit 14 between the heat exchanger 12 in which it absorbs heat from the electrolyte solution ML and the heat exchanger 13 that releases heat from the cooling fluid FR to the environment, and the fan device 21 that cools the radiator 20.

[0044] The control system 7 also controls the activation of the fan device 26 that causes the condensation of water vapour in the internal condensation chamber 24 to conveniently precipitate the electrolyte particles into the internal electrolysis chamber 19.

[0045] The cleaning apparatus described above has the advantage of keeping the temperature of the electrolyte solution and thus the temperature of the cleaning fluid FP and, in particular, the oxyhydrogen below a predetermined threshold, thus increasing the safety of the apparatus.

[0046] Placing the heat exchanger 12 inside the container 10 also optimises costs and the time it takes to cool the electrolyte solution. Furthermore, the construction of the electrolytic cell 9 using the polymeric central body allows both the manufacturing costs and the weight of the cell to be reduced.

[0047] Figures 9 to 11 show an engine cleaning apparatus 40 that is similar to the engine cleaning apparatus 1 shown in Figures 1 to 8, and whose component parts will be identified, where possible, with the same reference numbers identifying the corresponding parts of the engine cleaning apparatus 1. The engine cleaning apparatus 40 differs from the engine cleaning apparatus 1 in that both side, plate-shaped bodies 8 comprise electrodes 11.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0011]With reference to Figure 1, reference number 1 denotes, as a whole, an engine cleaning apparatus that is designed to carry out at least one cleaning cycle (decarbonisation cycle) on internal combustion engines 2.

[0012]The engine cleaning apparatus 1 is preferably designed to perform one or more cleaning (decarbonisation) cycles on one or more internal combustion engines 2, i.e. thermal / endothermic engines of vehicles 3. The cleaning cycle(s) are carried out when the vehicle 3 is stationary, e.g. in a garage ready for maintenance. Conveniently, the engine cleaning apparatus 1 performs a cleaning cycle when the internal combustion engine 2 of the vehicle 3 is running, i.e. in use, and the vehicle 3 is stationary (e.g. in the workshop). The thermal / endothermic engine is widely known and will not be described further except to point out that it is designed to be powered, during its normal use, through internal ducts / inlet openings, by a fuel (petrol, diesel, gas, or the like) and ...

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This patent application claims priority from Italian patent application no. 102024000003829 filed on February 23, 2024, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] This invention relates to an engine cleaning apparatus configured to clean vehicle internal combustion engines and its method of operation.

[0003] As is well known, internal combustion engines are subject, during fuel combustion, to the internal deposit of carbon-based residues, generally referred to as "carbon deposits", which over time tend to accumulate in the engine, forming encrustations that adversely affect engine combustion efficiency, engine performance and emissions.

[0004] To this end, engine cleaning apparatuses have been developed, which are generally used in garages to perform so-called decarbonisation cycles (removal of carbon deposits), during which an oxyhydrogen-based cleaning fluid is fed into the engine for a predetermined cycle duration. When performing the decarbonisation cycle, the cleaning fluid passes through the internal ducts and / or internal chambers of the stationary vehicle engine, and decomposes the carbon encrustation particles in them. The particles are burnt and / or expelled from the engine, decarbonising the engine, i.e. cleaning it of carbon deposits.

[0005] The above-mentioned engine-cleaning apparatuses are generally equipped with an electrolysis cell that uses an electrolyte solution comprising water and an electrolyte, and performs an electrolysis process to generate the oxyhydrogen to be used in the cleaning cycle.

[0006] A technical problem with the above-mentioned apparatuses is that during the electrolysis process, the electrolysis cell generates a significant amount of thermal energy, which, on the one hand, affects the stability of the electrolysis process and the efficiency of oxyhydrogen generation, and, on the other hand, increases the temperature of the hydrogen and oxygen, thus creating conditions potentially hazardous to combustion.DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0007] The purpose of this invention is therefore to provide an engine cleaning apparatus, which overcomes the above-mentioned technical drawback.

[0008] In accordance with this purpose, according to this invention, an engine cleaning apparatus and its operation method is provided, as defined in the related independent claims, and preferably, but not necessarily, in any one of the claims dependent thereon.

[0009] The claims describe preferred embodiments of this invention forming an integral part of this description.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] This invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate a non-limiting embodiment thereof, wherein: Figure 1 shows an engine cleaning apparatus, with parts removed for clarity and parts illustrated schematically, produced according to the precepts of this invention, Figure 2 schematically shows a hydraulic system of an engine cleaning apparatus produced according to the precepts of this invention, Figure 3 is a perspective view of a hydraulic system of an engine cleaning apparatus produced according to the precepts of this invention, Figure 4 is a perspective view with parts removed for clarity of the hydraulic system shown in Figure 3, Figure 5 is a side elevation view, with parts removed for clarity, of the electrolysis cell comprised in the hydraulic system shown in Figure 3, Figure 6 is a cross section VI-VI of the electrolysis cell shown in the figure comprised in the hydraulic system shown in Figure 3, Figure 7 is a plan view of the electrolysis cell shown in the figure comprised in the hydraulic system shown in Figure 3, Figure 8 is a cross section VIII-VIII of the electrolysis cell shown in the figure comprised in the hydraulic system shown in Figure 3, Figure 9 schematically shows a hydraulic system of an engine cleaning apparatus produced according to one embodiment of this invention, Figure 10 is a perspective view of a hydraulic system of an engine cleaning apparatus produced according to the embodiment, Figure 11 is a perspective view with parts removed for clarity of the hydraulic system shown in Figure 10. PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

[0011] With reference to Figure 1, reference number 1 denotes, as a whole, an engine cleaning apparatus that is designed to carry out at least one cleaning cycle (decarbonisation cycle) on internal combustion engines 2.

[0012] The engine cleaning apparatus 1 is preferably designed to perform one or more cleaning (decarbonisation) cycles on one or more internal combustion engines 2, i.e. thermal / endothermic engines of vehicles 3. The cleaning cycle(s) are carried out when the vehicle 3 is stationary, e.g. in a garage ready for maintenance. Conveniently, the engine cleaning apparatus 1 performs a cleaning cycle when the internal combustion engine 2 of the vehicle 3 is running, i.e. in use, and the vehicle 3 is stationary (e.g. in the workshop). The thermal / endothermic engine is widely known and will not be described further except to point out that it is designed to be powered, during its normal use, through internal ducts / inlet openings, by a fuel (petrol, diesel, gas, or the like) and a comburent (air, or the like). The vehicle 3 is also widely known and will not be described further except to point out that it may comprise, for example, a motor vehicle (as shown in Figure 1), a motorbike, or any similar vehicle that is equipped with an endothermic engine (truck or bus, etc.).

[0013] However, it is understood that, in addition or alternatively, according to this invention the engine cleaning apparatus 1 is not to be considered limited to the cleaning of motor vehicle engines but may also be applied, in addition or alternatively, to perform cleaning on endothermic engines installed in vehicles such as boats or aircraft (piston engines). However, it is understood that, in addition or alternatively, according to this invention the engine cleaning apparatus 1 is not to be considered limited to the cleaning of motor vehicle engines but may also be applied, additionally, to perform cleaning on an endothermic engine installed in a power generator unit provided with an uninterruptible power supply or any system comprising an endothermic engine.

[0014] The engine cleaning apparatus 1 is designed to perform one or more cleaning cycles during which it injects a cleaning fluid FP into the internal combustion engine 2. According to this invention, the cleaning fluid FP is essentially (predominantly) in a gaseous state and comprises oxyhydrogen HHO, i.e. a gaseous mixture of hydrogen and oxygen.

[0015] In the example shown in Figure 1, the engine cleaning apparatus 1 comprises a casing or boxed frame 4, e.g. with a parallelepiped shape, wheels resting on the ground (not illustrated) and at least one injection duct 5, which is configured to be hydraulically connected / coupled to the engine 2 to inject the cleaning fluid FP into it. The injection duct 5 extends outside the box frame 4 and is designed to be hydraulically coupled to the engine 2 so that it can be easily separated. For example, the injection duct 5 may be a preferably flexible hose fitted at the free end with a connector hydraulically connected to one or more suction inlet or injection openings or ducts of the combustion chamber (not shown) of the internal combustion engine 2.

[0016] The engine cleaning apparatus 1 comprises a hydraulic generator system, hereinafter referred to as the hydraulic system 6, which is designed to generate the cleaning fluid FP to feed it in a controlled manner into the engine 2 through the duct 5, and a control system 7 configured to control the hydraulic system 6 so as to: regulate the amount / flow rate of the cleaning fluid FP injected into the internal combustion engine 2 during a cleaning cycle, and / or adjust the duration of the cleaning cycle itself.

[0017] According to the preferred embodiment shown in Figure 1, the hydraulic system 6 is preferably arranged within the frame 4 and has at least one connector that is hydraulically connected to the duct 5 to supply it with the cleaning fluid FP.

[0018] The control system 7 may comprise one or more electrical / electronic control units / modules (not illustrated) and / or electronic circuits configured to implement control programs to monitor the operation of the apparatus 1, and may be electrically connected to a control panel 27 to receive commands from the operator. The operator's commands can be processed by the control system 7 to configure / set the cleaning cycle in order to define its characteristics, e.g. its duration and / or the quantity / flow rate of the cleaning fluid FP.

[0019] With reference to Figure 2, the hydraulic system 6 is equipped with an electrolysis device 8. The electrolysis device 8 comprises at least one electrolysis cell 9 equipped with plates or electrodes 11, which are immersed in an electrolyte solution ML. The electrolyte solution ML is in a predominantly liquid state and consists of a solvent and an electrolyte.

[0020] The electrolysis device 8 can be adjusted using the control system 7. Conveniently, the control system 7 controls an electrical quantity (current / voltage) fed / supplied to the electrodes 11 (with positive and negative polarity) to carry out the electrolysis process, in a way that is known in itself, and therefore not described in detail.

[0021] The solvent may comprise water in a liquid state, e.g. demineralised water. The electrolyte may comprise a solution in a liquid state having a predetermined concentration of saline compounds, for example based on hydroxide, potassium hydroxide (KOH), sodium hydroxide (NaOH). The electrolyte concentration in the electrolyte solution ML can be comprised in a predetermined concentration range, it may preferably have a predetermined value. The concentration range or predetermined value can be determined so as to ensure proper / efficient operation of the electrolysis cell 9.

[0022] According to a preferred embodiment of this invention shown in Figures 2, 3-8, the electrolysis cell 9 is provided with a closed container 10 containing the electrolyte solution ML. The electrodes 11 may comprise plates of electrically conductive material that are immersed in the electrolyte solution ML and are configured to subject the electrolyte solution ML to the electrolysis process to generate the cleaning fluid FP.

[0023] According to a preferred embodiment, the hydraulic system 6 further comprises a cooling system 30 configured to cool the electrolyte solution ML contained within the container 10.

[0024] According to a preferred embodiment, the cooling system 30 comprises a heat exchanger 12 (first heat exchanger) that is coupled to the container 10. The hydraulic system 6 also comprises a heat exchanger 13 (second heat exchanger) that is arranged outside the electrolysis cell 9. The cooling system 30 further comprises a hydraulic circuit 14 that hydraulically connects the heat exchangers 12 and 13, one with the other, in such a way as to conveniently form a closed circuit and through which a cooling fluid FR flows. The cooling fluid FR can comprise, for example, water or any similar fluid. In use, the cooling fluid FR can be kept in an essentially liquid state.

[0025] The cooling system 30 also comprises a pumping device 15 comprising, for example, an electro-hydraulic pump. The pumping device 15 is arranged along the hydraulic circuit 14 and is configured to circulate the cooling fluid FR in the hydraulic circuit 14 between the heat exchanger 12 to absorb the heat generated by the electrolysis process in the container 10 so as to reduce the temperature T of the electrolyte solution ML contained in the container 10 and the heat exchanger 13 configured to transfer the heat of the cooling fluid FR to the environment so as to cool the cooling fluid FR.

[0026] The cooling system 30 also comprises an expansion tank 31 that contains the cooling fluid FR and is hydraulically connected to the hydraulic circuit 14.

[0027] The cooling system 30 is then configured to regulate, in use, the temperature of the electrolyte solution ML contained in the container 10 in such a way as to keep it below a predetermined temperature threshold. The predetermined temperature threshold can be around 70° C, for example.

[0028] According to a preferred embodiment shown in Figures 2, 3 and 4, the heat exchanger 12 is arranged inside the container 10 so that it is immersed in, in contact with, the electrolyte solution ML.

[0029] According to a convenient embodiment, the container 10 comprises a tubular-shaped central body 16 having a first axis A, and two plate-shaped lateral bodies 18 that are firmly coupled on the two axially opposite open sides of the central body 16 along the axis A so as to close them and internally delimit an internal electrolysis chamber 19 with the central body 16 designed to contain the electrolyte solution ML.

[0030] As shown in the example of Figures 4, 5 and 6, the heat exchanger 12 comprises a tubular serpentine 12a that consists of a plurality of coiled coils coaxial to each other. The coiled coils are preferably coaxial to an axis B orthogonal to the axis A. The tubular central body 16 preferably has a substantially rectangular cross section (orthogonal to the axis A) and the coils of the tubular serpentine 12a extend while remaining inside the central body 16, without protruding therefrom, so as to extend close to the walls of the central body 16.

[0031] Conveniently, the two plate-shaped bodies 18 can be coupled to the central body 16 on axially opposite sides by means of mechanical fasteners 27, e.g. bolts or the like. The two plate-shaped bodies 18 can be permanently fixed on their opposite perimeter edges surrounding the openings of the central body 16 in such a way as to permanently trap the central body 16 and seal the internal electrolysis chamber 19 in a watertight manner.

[0032] The two plate-shaped bodies 18 may be made of metal, e.g. steel or aluminium or the like, and have a rectangular shape corresponding to the side shape of the central body 16. The central body 16 can be conveniently made from a polymeric material (plastic). Conveniently, the central body 16 can be produced using injection moulding based on thermoplastic or thermosetting polymers or the like.

[0033] According to a convenient embodiment shown in Figures 3 and 4, a plate-shaped body 18 comprises said electrodes 11. Conveniently, the plate-shaped body 18 may comprise one or more interlocking plates made of electrically conductive material. The plates may comprise and / or integrate the electrodes 11 of the electrolysis cell 9.

[0034] According to a preferred embodiment shown in Figures 2-4, the heat exchanger 13 comprises a radiator 20. The radiator 20 may comprise a tubular serpentine 20a and be provided with cooling fins 20b coupled to the tubular serpentine 20a.

[0035] According to a preferred embodiment shown in Figures 2-4, the heat exchanger 13 further comprises at least one fan device 21 (two in the examples shown in the accompanying figures). The fan device 21 is conveniently close to, adjacent to, the radiator 20 in order to cool the cooling fluid FR circulating in it.

[0036] According to a preferred embodiment shown in Figure 2, the engine cleaning apparatus 1 also preferably comprises a temperature measuring system 22 configured to measure the temperature of the electrolyte solution ML in the container 10. The temperature measuring system 22 may comprise, for example, one or more sensors configured to provide the control system 7 with data / signals indicating the measured temperature of the electrolyte solution ML.

[0037] Conveniently, according to one possible embodiment, the control system 7 can be configured to control the pumping device 15 and / or the fan device 21 based on the measured temperature of the electrolyte solution ML.

[0038] Alternatively or additionally, the control system 7 can control the electrical quantity (current / voltage) supplied to the electrodes 11 based on the measured temperature of the electrolyte solution ML. For example, according to one possible embodiment, the control system 7 interrupts the supply of the electrical quantity (current / voltage) supplied to the electrodes 11 when the measured temperature of the electrolyte solution ML exceeds the temperature threshold so as to allow the cooling system 30 to rapidly cool the electrolyte solution ML, and supplies the electrical quantity (current / voltage) to the electrodes 11 again when the measured temperature is below the temperature threshold so as to generate the oxyhydrogen.

[0039] With reference to the embodiment shown in Figures 1-8, the electrolysis cell 9 may also comprise a container 23, which is arranged on the upper wall of the container 10, opposite the back wall. The container 23 has an internal condensation chamber 24 which is in communication with the internal electrolysis chamber 19 to receive the oxyhydrogen generated during the electrolysis process, and a series of connectors 25, one of which is intended to be connected with the duct 5 to supply the cleaning fluid FP consisting of oxyhydrogen HHO (Figure 6).

[0040] In the example shown in Figure 6, the container 23 has a roughly box-like shape, is made of metal, conveniently steel, and has protruding cooling fins.

[0041] The engine cleaning apparatus 1 also comprises at least one fan device 26 to cool the oxyhydrogen HHO in the internal condensation chamber. The fan device 26 may be arranged on a wall of the container 10 so as to face the container 23 in order to cool the oxyhydrogen HHO present in the inner condensation chamber in such a way as to condense the water vapour so as to precipitate the electrolyte particles by conveniently separating them from the oxyhydrogen HHO.

[0042] The following will describe the operation of engine cleaning apparatus 1 in which it is assumed that: the duct 5 is connected to the internal combustion engine 2 of the vehicle 3, that the control system 7 supplies the electrical quantity to the electrodes 11 to carry out the electrolysis process to generate the cleaning fluid. At this stage, the electrolysis process results in the generation of oxyhydrogen HHO, which is directed towards the connector 25 connected to the duct 5 and the temperature increases.

[0043] When the control system 7 detects that the temperature of the electrolyte solution ML measured in the container 10 is above the predetermined threshold via the temperature measuring system 22, the control system 7 activates the cooling system 30 that cools the electrolyte solution ML in the container 10. In particular, in this condition, the control system 7 can activate: the pumping device 15 that circulates the fluid FR in the hydraulic circuit 14 between the heat exchanger 12 in which it absorbs heat from the electrolyte solution ML and the heat exchanger 13 that releases heat from the cooling fluid FR to the environment, and the fan device 21 that cools the radiator 20.

[0044] The control system 7 also controls the activation of the fan device 26 that causes the condensation of water vapour in the internal condensation chamber 24 to conveniently precipitate the electrolyte particles into the internal electrolysis chamber 19.

[0045] The cleaning apparatus described above has the advantage of keeping the temperature of the electrolyte solution and thus the temperature of the cleaning fluid FP and, in particular, the oxyhydrogen below a predetermined threshold, thus increasing the safety of the apparatus.

[0046] Placing the heat exchanger 12 inside the container 10 also optimises costs and the time it takes to cool the electrolyte solution. Furthermore, the construction of the electrolytic cell 9 using the polymeric central body allows both the manufacturing costs and the weight of the cell to be reduced.

[0047] Figures 9 to 11 show an engine cleaning apparatus 40 that is similar to the engine cleaning apparatus 1 shown in Figures 1 to 8, and whose component parts will be identified, where possible, with the same reference numbers identifying the corresponding parts of the engine cleaning apparatus 1. The engine cleaning apparatus 40 differs from the engine cleaning apparatus 1 in that both side, plate-shaped bodies 8 comprise electrodes 11.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0011]With reference to Figure 1, reference number 1 denotes, as a whole, an engine cleaning apparatus that is designed to carry out at least one cleaning cycle (decarbonisation cycle) on internal combustion engines 2.

[0012]The engine cleaning apparatus 1 is preferably designed to perform one or more cleaning (decarbonisation) cycles on one or more internal combustion engines 2, i.e. thermal / endothermic engines of vehicles 3. The cleaning cycle(s) are carried out when the vehicle 3 is stationary, e.g. in a garage ready for maintenance. Conveniently, the engine cleaning apparatus 1 performs a cleaning cycle when the internal combustion engine 2 of the vehicle 3 is running, i.e. in use, and the vehicle 3 is stationary (e.g. in the workshop). The thermal / endothermic engine is widely known and will not be described further except to point out that it is designed to be powered, during its normal use, through internal ducts / inlet openings, by a fuel (petrol, diesel, gas, or the like) and ...

Claims

1. An engine cleaning apparatus (1) configured to provide a cleaning fluid (FP) based on oxyhydrogen (HHO) to an internal combustion engine (2) of a motor vehicle (3) to clean the internal combustion engine (2) from carbon-based deposits, said engine cleaning apparatus comprises: an electrolysis device (8) comprising at least one electrolysis cell (9) which is provided with a first container (10) containing an electrolyte solution (ML), and electrodes (11) configured to subject said electrolyte solution (ML) to an electrolysis process to generate said cleaning fluid (FP), a cooling system (30) comprising a first heat exchanger (12) which is coupled to said container (10) of said electrolysis cell (9), a second heat exchanger (13) which is arranged outside said electrolytic cell (9), a hydraulic circuit (14) which hydraulically connects the first heat exchanger (12) to the second heat exchanger (13) and through which a cooling fluid (FR) flows, a pumping device (15) which is arranged along said hydraulic circuit (14) and is configured to circulate said cooling fluid (FR) in said hydraulic circuit (14) between said first heat exchanger (12) and said second heat exchanger (13) to cool said electrolytic solution (ML) contained in said container (10).

2. The engine cleaning apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said first heat exchanger (12) is arranged inside said first container (10) in order to be immersed in the electrolyte solution (ML).

3. The engine cleaning apparatus according to claim 2, wherein said container (10) comprises a tubular-shaped central body (16) having a first axis (A), and two plate-shaped lateral bodies (18) which are firmly coupled on the two axially opposite open sides of the central body (16) to close them in order to form with the central body (16) an internal electrolysis chamber (19) containing said electrolyte solution (ML).

4. Theengine cleaning apparatus according to any of the foregoing claims, wherein said first heat exchanger (12) comprises a tubular serpentine (12a) which consists of a plurality of coiled coils coaxial to each other.

5. The engine cleaning apparatus according to claim 3, wherein at least a plate-shaped lateral body (18) comprise said electrodes (11).

6. The engine cleaning apparatus according to any of the foregoing claims, wherein said second heat exchanger (13) comprises at least one fan device (21) and / or one radiator device (20).

7. The engine cleaning apparatus according to claim 6, comprising a temperature measuring system (22) for measuring the temperature of said electrolyte solution (ML) in said first container (10) and an electronic control unit configured to control said pumping device (15) and / or said fan device (21) on the basis of the measured temperature.

8. The engine cleaning apparatus according to claim 3, wherein said central body (16) of said first container (10) is made of plastic material.

9. The engine cleaning apparatus according to any of the foregoing claims, wherein the electrolysis cell (9) comprises a second container (23) which is arranged above the first container (10) and has a storage chamber (24) inside, which is in communication with the internal electrolysis chamber (19) to receive the oxyhydrogen generated during the electrolysis process, said engine cleaning apparatus (1) further comprising at least one ventilation device (26) configured to cool said second container (23).

10. A method for injecting a cleaning fluid (FP) based on an oxyhydrogen (HHO) into a vehicle's internal combustion engine to clean it from carbon-based deposits, the method comprises the steps of: arranging an electrolysis device (8) comprising at least one electrolysis cell (9) that is provided with a first container (10) that contains an electrolyte solution (ML), and electrodes (11) that are immersed in said electrolyte solution (ML) and are configured to perform an electrolysis process on the electrolyte solution (ML) to generate said cleaning fluid (FP), providing a cooling system comprising: a first heat exchanger (12) which is coupled to said first container (10) of the electrolysis cell (9), a second heat exchanger (13) which is arranged outside said electrolytic cell (19), a hydraulic circuit (14) which hydraulically connects the first heat exchanger (12) to the second heat exchanger (3) and through which a cooling fluid (FR) flows, a pumping device (15) which is arranged along said hydraulic circuit (14), activating the pumping device (15) so as to circulate said cooling fluid (FR) in said hydraulic circuit (14) between the first heat exchanger (12) and the second heat exchanger (13) to cool said electrolyte solution (ML) in said first container (10).

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