Electrical Separation System for Multi-Stage Brushless Car Wash System

Abstract

A multi-stage brushless car wash system is disclosed. The multi-stage brushless car wash system includes an electroseparation system stage, a first wash stage, and a second wash stage that are independently controlled to wash the exterior of a vehicle. The electroseparation system stage creates an electrical potential on a surface of the vehicle. The electrical potential is greater than the zeta potential of the road film, thereby aiding in the removal of the road film in the multi-stage brushless car wash system. The electroseparation system stage applies a plurality of different charged chemical solutions to the vehicle to create the electrical potential. The chemical solutions may include at least one of an alkaline based solution and an acid based solution.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE The present disclosure relates generally to vehicle wash systems, and more particularly to automatic brushless car wash systems. [Background technology]

[0002] Car wash systems are used to clean the exterior of vehicles using at least water and chemicals such as soap. One type of automatic car wash system is a tunnel car wash system (e.g., a conveyor system). In a tunnel car wash system, vehicles are propelled onto a conveyor of the tunnel car wash system. The conveyor moves the vehicle through a tunnel of the tunnel car wash system, where different steps for washing the vehicle are performed, from an initial step of pre-soaking the vehicle with water to a final step of drying the vehicle.

[0003] Conventional tunnel car wash systems use brushes, water, or a combination of brushes and water to wash vehicles. Conventional tunnel car wash systems typically require the use of brushes to remove road film, which is a fine layer of contaminants that coats a vehicle after it has traveled on a road. As a vehicle moves during operation, it generates friction and static electricity, which causes the contaminants to bond with the vehicle's surface as road film. Conventional tunnel car wash systems utilize brushes to remove road film. However, using brushes to wash a vehicle can damage the vehicle's surface as the brushes come into contact with the vehicle's paint and remove the road film. This damage can include undesirable scratches or swirl marks on the vehicle's paint or damaged vehicle parts because the brushes catch on the parts during washing.

[0004] Although certain conventional tunnel car wash systems may use high-pressure water (e.g., brushless) to wash vehicles to avoid damaging the vehicle's paint, conventional brushless tunnel car wash systems generally cannot thoroughly wash the vehicle to remove road film on the vehicle. As a result, conventional tunnel car wash systems cannot adequately clean the vehicle. Summary of the Invention

[0005] A multi-stage brushless car wash system is disclosed. The multi-stage brushless car wash system includes an electric separation system device. The electric separation stage device generates an electric potential on the surface of the vehicle being washed. The electric potential is greater than the zeta potential of the road film, thereby aiding in the removal of the road film in the multi-stage brushless car wash system without the need for brushes.

[0006] To generate the electric potential, the electroseparation stage device applies a first voltage to one or more chemical solutions used to wash the vehicle. The application of the first voltage adds an electric charge to the chemical solutions. Once the charged chemical solutions are applied to the vehicle, the electroseparation stage also applies a second voltage to the vehicle. In one embodiment, the second voltage is applied via a voltage device that directly contacts the vehicle and applies the second voltage to the vehicle. In another embodiment, the electroseparation stage device applies the second voltage to water to charge the water used to wash the vehicle. The application of the charged chemical solutions and second voltage to the vehicle generates an electric potential on the vehicle surface that aids in the removal of road film.

[0007] The electroseparation stage apparatus cleans the vehicle using a number of different chemical solutions. The electroseparation stage apparatus uses chemical solutions having safe, non-corrosive chemistry, thereby reducing the potential for damage to the vehicle's surfaces while still achieving desirable cleaning performance.

[0008] In one embodiment, the electro-separation device applies a first chemical solution that is alkaline based on the vehicle surface and a second chemical solution that is acidic based on the vehicle surface. The first chemical solution may include a first proportion of reverse osmosis water and a second proportion of 5% to 9% sodium bicarbonate. Meanwhile, the second chemical solution may include a first proportion of reverse osmosis water and a second proportion of 40% to 45% citric acid.

[0009] The features and advantages described herein are not all-inclusive, and many additional features and advantages will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the drawings, specification, and claims. Furthermore, it should be noted that the language used herein has been chosen primarily for ease of reading and explanatory purposes, and may not be chosen to delineate or limit the subject matter of the invention. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] 1 is a high-level block diagram of a two-stage brushless car wash system according to a first embodiment. FIG. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a method flow diagram illustrating independently performed steps of a first wash stage and a second wash stage of a two-stage brushless car wash system according to one embodiment. [Figure 3A] 1 illustrates a perspective view of a first wash stage of a two-stage brushless car wash system according to one embodiment. [Figure 3B-3C] FIG. 1 illustrates a front view of a first wash stage of a two-stage brushless car wash system according to one embodiment. [Figure 4] 1 illustrates a chemical arch included in the first wash stage of a two-stage brushless car wash system according to one embodiment. [Figure 5A] 1 illustrates an optical sensor included in the first wash stage of a two-stage brushless car wash system according to one embodiment. [Figure 5B] 1 illustrates sensing data for a vehicle according to one embodiment. [Figures 6A-6H]1 illustrates the operation of a first wash stage of a two-stage brushless car wash system according to one embodiment. [Figure 7] 1 illustrates operation of a first wash stage of a two-stage brushless car wash system for washing the rear of a vehicle according to one embodiment. [Figures 8A-8D] 10 shows a contracting operation of the extension unit of the first cleaning stage according to one embodiment. [Figure 8E] FIG. 2 shows a plan view of the extension unit according to one embodiment. [Figure 8F] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of the telescopic unit in an extended state according to one embodiment. [Figure 9A] FIG. 10 shows a detailed view of components of the extendable unit of the first cleaning stage according to one embodiment. [Figure 9B-9D] FIG. 10 shows a detailed view of components of the extendable unit of the first cleaning stage according to one embodiment. [Figure 10A] FIG. 10 shows a detailed view of the shock absorbing unit of the extendable unit of the first cleaning stage according to one embodiment. [Figures 10B-10E] FIG. 10 shows a detailed view of the shock absorbing unit of the extendable unit of the first cleaning stage according to one embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a detailed view of a mechanism for folding and extending the telescopic unit of the first cleaning stage according to one embodiment. [Figures 12A-12C] FIG. 10 shows a detailed view of the drum and wires for folding and extending the telescopic unit of the first cleaning stage according to one embodiment. [Figures 13A-13B] 1A-1C show various views of a washing unit of a first washing stage according to one embodiment. [Figures 13C-13D] 1A-1C show various views of a washing unit of a first washing stage according to one embodiment. [Figure 14] 10 shows a cleaning unit of a first cleaning stage according to another embodiment. [Figures 15A-15B] 10A-10C show various views of a safety device of a first cleaning stage according to one embodiment. [Figure 16A]1 illustrates a reset device for a first cleaning stage in response to a collision between the first cleaning stage and a vehicle, according to one embodiment. [Figures 16B-16C] 1 illustrates a reset device for a first cleaning stage in response to a collision between the first cleaning stage and a vehicle, according to one embodiment. [Figure 17] 2 shows a detailed view of the second washing stage of the two-stage brushless car wash system according to the first embodiment. FIG. [Figures 18A-18B] 4 shows the operation of the second cleaning stage according to the first embodiment. [Figures 18C-18D] 4 shows the operation of the second cleaning stage according to the first embodiment. [Figure 19] 10 shows a double bent arm of the second cleaning stage according to one embodiment. [Figures 20A-20B] 10 illustrates the center of gravity of the double bend arm of the second cleaning stage according to one embodiment. [Figures 20C-20D] 10 illustrates weights added to a double bent arm to change the center of gravity of the double bent arm in accordance with one embodiment. [Figure 21] 10 shows a single bending arm of the second cleaning stage according to one embodiment. [Figure 22A] 10 illustrates the motion path of components of a second cleaning stage according to one embodiment. [Figure 22B] 22B illustrates force vectors that move the second cleaning stage through the path shown in FIG. 22A according to one embodiment. [Figures 23A-23B] FIG. 2 shows a detailed view of the base assembly of the second cleaning stage according to the first embodiment. [Figure 23C] FIG. 2 shows a detailed view of the base assembly of the second cleaning stage according to the first embodiment. [Figures 24A-24B] FIG. 2 shows a plan view of the base assembly according to the first embodiment. [Figure 25] FIG. 1 shows a plan view of a second cleaning stage according to an embodiment. [Figures 26A-26B] 1 illustrates a nozzle assembly of a second cleaning stage according to one embodiment. [Figure 27A]FIG. 10 shows a detailed view of the anti-collision unit of the second cleaning stage according to an embodiment. [Figures 27B-27C] 4 illustrates the operation of a collision prevention unit according to an embodiment. [Figure 28] FIG. 10 shows a detailed view of the second washing stage of the two-stage brushless car wash system according to the second embodiment. [Figures 29A-29B] 10 shows the operation of the second cleaning stage according to the second embodiment. [Figure 29C] 10 shows the operation of the second cleaning stage according to the second embodiment. [Figure 30A-30B] FIG. 10 shows a detailed view of the base assembly of the second cleaning stage according to the second embodiment. [Figure 31A-31B] FIG. 10 shows a plan view of a base assembly of a second cleaning stage according to a second embodiment. [Figure 32] FIG. 1 is a high-level block diagram of a multi-stage brushless car wash system including an electrical separation stage according to one embodiment. [Figure 33A] FIG. 1 is a method flow diagram illustrating independently performed steps of an electric separation system stage, a first wash stage, and a second wash stage of a multi-stage brushless car wash system according to one embodiment. [Figure 33B] FIG. 1 is a method flow diagram illustrating independently performed steps of an electric separation system stage, a first wash stage, and a second wash stage of a multi-stage brushless car wash system according to one embodiment. [Figure 34] FIG. 2 is a high-level block diagram of an electrical isolation system stage according to a first embodiment. [Figure 35A] FIG. 2 is a front view of the electrical separation system stage according to the first embodiment. [Figure 35B] 2 shows a detailed view of a chemical charger of an electroseparation system stage according to a first embodiment. FIG. [Figure 35C] 2 shows a detailed diagram of a reference voltage device of a stage of a galvanic isolation system according to a first embodiment; [Figure 36] FIG. 1 is a high-level block diagram of an electrical isolation system stage according to a second embodiment. [Figure 37A-37B]FIG. 10 shows a front view of an electrical separation system stage according to a second embodiment. [Figure 38A-38B] FIG. 10 shows a detailed view of a water charger of an electric separation system stage according to a second embodiment. [Figure 39A] FIG. 10 shows a front view of a part of a first cleaning stage according to a second embodiment. [Figure 39B] FIG. 10 shows a front view of another part of the first cleaning stage according to the second embodiment. [Figure 40A] FIG. 10 shows a front view of a part of a second cleaning stage according to a second embodiment. [Figure 40B-40C] FIG. 10 shows a side view of a portion of a second cleaning stage according to a second embodiment. [Figure 41] FIG. 10 shows a detailed view of a charge generator used in the second cleaning stage according to the second embodiment. [Figure 42] FIG. 2 is a detailed diagram of a controller for a two-stage brushless car wash system according to one embodiment. [Figure 43] FIG. 2 is a detailed diagram of a controller for a multi-stage brushless car wash system according to one embodiment. [Figure 44] FIG. 2 is a system diagram of a controller according to one embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] The drawings depict embodiments of the invention for illustrative purposes only, and as those skilled in the art will readily appreciate from the following description, other embodiments of the structures and methods shown herein may be used without departing from the principles of the invention as described herein.

[0012] 2-stage brushless car wash system 1 is a high-level block diagram of a two-stage brushless car wash system 100 (hereinafter "car wash system 100") according to a first embodiment. Car wash system 100, in one example, is a tunnel-based car wash system that washes the exterior of a vehicle 101 in multiple separate stages. Car wash system 100, in one embodiment, includes a first wash stage 103, a second wash stage 105, a conveyor 107, a controller 109, and a water supply system 109. In one embodiment, first wash stage 103 washes the top surface (e.g., top end) of vehicle 101, and second wash stage 105 washes the sides of vehicle 101. First wash stage 103 and second wash stage 105 are physically separated and independently controlled by controller 109 to wash the exterior of vehicle 101.

[0013] 2 is a method flow diagram illustrating the independently performed steps of the first washing stage 103 and the second washing stage 105 of the car wash system 100 for washing the vehicle 101 according to a first embodiment. The car wash system 100 receives the vehicle 101 for washing (201). In one embodiment, the vehicle 101 is received as the vehicle 101 is propelled on a conveyor 107 included in the car wash system 100. The conveyor 107 transports the vehicle 101 at a predetermined speed along the car wash system 100 so that the vehicle 101 passes through the first washing stage 103 and subsequently through the second washing stage 105 for cleaning the exterior surface of the vehicle 101. In one embodiment, the conveyor 107 transports the vehicle 101 through the car wash system 100 at a speed of 200-380 mm / s (7.8-14.9 in / s), resulting in approximately 120-180 vehicles being washed per hour. The conveyor 107 may transport the vehicle 101 at other speeds in different examples.

[0014] The car wash system 100 uses the first wash stage 103 to wash (202) an upper surface of the vehicle 101, such as the front, top, and rear of the vehicle 101. In one embodiment, an example of a front surface of the vehicle 101 includes the front bumper, examples of a top surface of the vehicle 101 include the hood, front windshield, roof, rear windshield, truck bed, and top of the rear deck of the vehicle 101, and examples of a rear surface of the vehicle 101 include the rear of the rear deck and the rear bumper.

[0015] As described in more detail below, the first cleaning stage 103 is brushless, i.e., it includes a cleaning unit (e.g., a nozzle) that cleans the top surface of the vehicle 101 without the use of brushes. The first cleaning stage 103 does not clean the sides of the vehicle 101, as the second cleaning stage 105 does, as described in more detail below.

[0016] To clean the top surface of the vehicle 101, the first cleaning stage 103 determines 205 a profile shape of the vehicle 101. The profile shape of the vehicle 101, according to one embodiment, describes various elevation points of the vehicle 101 along the length of the vehicle 101. The elevation points of the vehicle 101 included in the profile shape collectively describe the vertical shape of the front, top, and rear surfaces of the vehicle 101.

[0017] The first wash stage 103 applies (207) chemicals to the vehicle 101. The first wash stage 103 applies chemicals to the top surface of the vehicle 101. In one embodiment, the first wash stage 103 may also apply chemicals to the sides of the vehicle 101. The chemicals applied to the top surface of the vehicle 101 are used by the front wash stage 103 to wash the top surface of the vehicle 101. The chemicals applied to the sides may be used by the second wash stage 105 to wash the sides of the vehicle 101. The chemicals may include, for example, soap or any other type of chemical used in a car wash. In one embodiment, the first wash stage 103 may apply different soaps, each having a different pH level, to the vehicle 101.

[0018] After the chemicals are applied to the vehicle 101, the first cleaning stage 103 activates (209) the cleaning unit of the first cleaning stage 103 to begin cleaning the vehicle 101 with water. The water sprayed by the cleaning unit of the first cleaning stage 103 is used to clean the top surface of the vehicle 101. As the vehicle 101 moves along the first cleaning stage 103 by the conveyor 107, the first cleaning stage 101 adjusts (211) the height of the cleaning unit according to the vertical contour shape of the vehicle 101 as the top surface of the vehicle 101 is cleaned. Thus, the cleaning unit moves according to the contour of the vehicle 101 to improve the cleaning performance of the first cleaning stage 103 as the cleaning unit remains within a certain proximity (e.g., within a certain distance range) to the top surface of the vehicle.

[0019] As described in more detail below, adjusting the height of the washing units of the first washing stage 103 allows the washing units to maintain a predetermined distance (e.g., a certain proximity) from the upper surface of the vehicle 101 to better clean the vehicle 101. By maintaining a predetermined distance between the washing units and the upper surface of the vehicle 101, the first washing stage 103 can remove more dirt, grime, and / or road film from the upper surface of the vehicle 101 while reducing the amount of water used during the washing process compared to conventional brushless tunnel car wash systems. Additionally, because the first washing stage 103 is brushless, damage to the paint of the vehicle 101 is at least reduced.

[0020] After the first cleaning stage 103 completes cleaning the top surface of the vehicle 101, the vehicle 101 exits the first cleaning stage 103 and the conveyor 107 transports the vehicle 101 to the second cleaning stage 105. As previously mentioned, the second cleaning stage 105 cleans (203) the sides of the vehicle 101 independently of the first cleaning stage 103 after the first cleaning stage 103 is complete. Examples of vehicle sides include the front and rear fenders, doors, side mirrors, driver and / or passenger windows, wheels, and the sides of the front and rear bumpers.

[0021] In one embodiment, to wash the sides of the vehicle 101 during the second washing stage 105, the width of the second washing stage 213 is adjusted (213) based on the width of the vehicle 101. After the width of the second washing stage 213 is adjusted, the washing units of the second washing stage are activated (215) to wash the sides of the vehicle 101. By adjusting the width of the second washing stage 105, the washing units of the second washing stage 105 can maintain a predetermined distance range from the sides of the vehicle 101 to better wash the sides of the vehicle 101. Thus, the washing units of the second washing stage 105 can take into account the contours of the sides of the vehicle 101. By maintaining a predetermined distance range between the washing unit and the side of the vehicle 101, the second washing stage 105 can remove more dirt, grime, and / or road film from the side of the vehicle 101 while reducing the amount of water used during the washing process compared to conventional brushless tunnel car wash systems.

[0022] In one embodiment, the water supply system 109 supplies water to the first washing stage 103 and the second washing stage 105. The water supplied by the water supply system 109 is pressurized at a predetermined pressure and heated to a predetermined temperature. In one embodiment, the water supply system 109 includes at least a boiler for heating and maintaining the water supplied to the first washing stage 103 and the second washing stage 105 at a predetermined temperature. The water supply system 109 may also include a pressure pump system for supplying water to the first washing stage 103 and the second washing stage 105 at a predetermined pressure (e.g., 1000 PSI). The water supply system 109 may be housed in a separate machine room from the first washing stage 103 and the second washing stage 105, or may be in the same room as the first washing stage 103 and the second washing stage 105.

[0023] Overview of the first cleaning stage 103 3A, 3B, and 3C, a perspective view, a front view, and a side view, respectively, of the first washing stage 103 of the car wash system 100 according to one embodiment are shown. The first washing stage 103 includes an optical sensor 301, a frame 302, a water supply line 303, a telescopic unit 304, a motor 305, a washing unit 306, and a safety device 307, each of which is described in further detail below. The first washing stage 103 may in other examples have additional or fewer components than those described herein.

[0024] In one embodiment, the optical sensor 301 is used in conjunction with the controller 109 to identify the profile of the vehicle 101. As previously described, the profile of the vehicle 101 includes a plurality of height points of the vehicle 101 measured along the length of the vehicle 101. Each height point represents the height of a portion of the vehicle. The height points included in the profile of the vehicle 101 are arranged in a sequence as seen by the optical sensor 301 to accurately describe the shape of the front, top, and rear of the vehicle 101.

[0025] In one embodiment, the optical sensor 301 may be positioned perpendicular to the ground (e.g., a straight ground surface). Alternatively, the optical sensor 301 may be tilted at a predetermined angle θ toward the front of the vehicle 101, where the angle θ is measured from a reference 309 that is perpendicular to the ground. For example, the optical sensor 301 may be positioned at a predetermined angle θ ranging from 13 to 17 degrees from the reference 309. The optical sensor 301 may be angled to reduce the measured distance between adjacent height points sensed by the optical sensor 103, as described further below.

[0026] In one embodiment, the optical sensor 301 is a light curtain sensor. The light curtain sensor includes multiple photoelectric beams. Each photoelectric beam emits light, shown as an individual light ray 308 in FIG. 3A . Each light ray 308 represents a particular height. As the vehicle 101 passes by the light curtain sensor, the array of photoelectric beams senses intrusions into the detection plane of the light curtain sensor, and various height points on the vehicle 101 are sensed based on which photoelectric beams penetrate. Based on the sensed points of intrusion communicated back to the controller 109, the controller 109 can determine various height points on the front, top, and rear of the vehicle 101 to generate a profile shape of the vehicle 101.

[0027] In another embodiment, the optical sensor 301 is a three-dimensional (3D) sensor. The 3D sensor is used to measure the dimensions of the vehicle 101 in three dimensions (e.g., x, y, and z dimensions) to generate a profile shape of the vehicle 101. The measured dimensions of the vehicle 101 include the height of the top surface of the vehicle 101.

[0028] In one embodiment, the 3D sensor includes at least two sensors (e.g., projected optical sensors) positioned toward the front of the vehicle 101. One sensor may be located on the driver's side of the vehicle 101, and the second sensor may be located on the passenger's side of the vehicle 101. As the vehicle 101 passes the sensors, each sensor shines light (e.g., a laser) on the vehicle 101 and measures the rear scattered light to determine the dimensions (e.g., height and / or width) of the vehicle 101.

[0029] Frame 302 is a structure used to support other components of the first washing stage, such as water supply line 303, telescopic unit 304, motor 305, washing unit 306, and safety device 307. Frame 302 includes a plurality of frame rails 302A-302D that collectively form frame 302D and provide mechanical support for water supply line 303, telescopic unit 304, and motor 305. Frame 302 may be made of metal, such as steel or aluminum, or other metals.

[0030] In one embodiment, frame 302 has a height of greater than 90 inches and a width of 134 inches to accommodate vehicles 101 that, in one embodiment, have a maximum height of 90 inches and a maximum width of 90 inches. However, frame 302 can have different dimensions depending on the size of the vehicle being washed.

[0031] Because the telescopic unit 304 adjusts the height of the cleaning unit 306, the telescopic unit 304 can be considered a height adjustment unit. In one embodiment, the telescopic unit 304 is a telescopic rail. The telescopic unit 304 is configured to contract or extend according to the contour of the vehicle 101 so as to maintain a predetermined distance range between the cleaning unit 306 and the upper surface of the vehicle 101 during the first cleaning stage 103. As shown in FIG. 3C , a portion 311 of the telescopic unit 304 is attached to the frame 302 using a mounting plate 313. As shown in FIGS. 3A and 3C , the mounting plate 313 is attached to the frame rail 302D. The mounting plate 313 may be attached to the frame rail 302D using fasteners such as nuts and bolts, or the mounting plate 313 may be welded to the frame rail 302D.

[0032] As will be described in more detail below, the cleaning unit 306 may be a water manifold with a plurality of nozzles attached thereto. The cleaning unit 306 is used to spray pressurized water onto the upper surface of the vehicle 101 to clean the vehicle 101. The cleaning unit 306 is attached to the ends 315A, 315B of the telescopic unit 304, as shown in FIG. 3B. As mentioned above, the cleaning unit 306 is maintained within a predetermined distance between the upper surfaces of the vehicles 101 during the first cleaning stage to enhance cleaning performance.

[0033] The water supply line 303 supplies water supplied by the water supply system 109 to the cleaning unit 306. As shown in FIG. 3B , the water supply line 303 includes a water supply line 303A and a water supply line 303B, each of which is disposed on one side of the telescopic unit 304. An end of each water supply line is attached to the cleaning unit 306. For example, an end 316A of the water supply line 303A is attached to the cleaning unit 306, and an end 316B of the water supply line 303B is attached to the cleaning unit 306.

[0034] The motor 305 is configured to rotate to retract or extend the telescopic unit 304 while the vehicle 101 is being washed during the first washing stage 103. The motor 305 is controlled by the controller 109 to retract or extend the telescopic unit 304 according to the contour of the vehicle 101 so that the washing unit 306 is maintained within a predetermined distance of the front, top, and rear surfaces of the vehicle 101. In one embodiment, the motor 305 is attached to the top end 317 of the telescopic unit 304.

[0035] The safety device 307 is configured to reduce damage to the vehicle 101 upon impact between the vehicle 101 and the safety device 307. The safety device 307 includes an impact absorbing material that absorbs the impact and reduces damage to the vehicle 101 upon impact. An impact can occur if the telescopic unit 304 does not properly retract to conform to the contours of the vehicle 101.

[0036] In one embodiment, safety device 307 includes multiple safety devices 307A and 307B. As described further below, the multiple safety devices are attached to wash unit 306 such that each safety device surrounds a portion of wash unit 306. Safety device 307A is positioned on wash unit 306 to be on one side of water supply line 303A (e.g., on the left side of water supply line 303A), and safety device 307B is positioned on wash unit 306 to be on the other side of water supply line 303B (e.g., on the right side of water supply line 303B). Although safety device 307 shown here includes two safety devices, any number of safety devices may be used.

[0037] 4, the first washing stage 103 may also include a plurality of chemical arches 401. Generally, the chemical arches 401 are structures that spray chemicals onto the vehicle 101 during the washing process of the car wash system 100. The chemicals include, for example, soap.

[0038] In one embodiment, the chemical arch 401 applies detergent to the top surface of the vehicle 101. The chemical arch 401 can also apply detergent to the sides of the vehicle 101. In one embodiment, each of the chemical arches 401A and 401B simultaneously sprays detergent onto the top and sides of the vehicle 101. The detergent applied to the top surface of the vehicle 101 is used by the first cleaning stage 103 to clean the top surface of the vehicle. In some embodiments, the detergent applied to the sides may be used by the second cleaning stage 105 to clean the sides of the vehicle 101. In some embodiments, the detergent sprayed by the first chemical arch 401A and the detergent sprayed by the second chemical arch 401B are the same. Alternatively, the detergent sprayed by the first chemical arch 401A and the detergent sprayed by the second chemical arch 401B are different. An example of a detergent is soap.

[0039] In one embodiment, chemical arch 401A applies a detergent with a first pH level to vehicle 101, and chemical arch 401B applies a detergent with a second pH level to vehicle 101. The first and second pH levels are different from one another in one embodiment, but may be the same in other embodiments.

[0040] As shown in FIG. 4, chemical arches 401 are positioned between optical sensor 301 and frame 302. In one embodiment, a first chemical arch 401A is positioned at least 157 inches and up to 236 inches from optical sensor 301. In one embodiment, the distance between chemical arches 401A and 401B may be different from the distance from one car wash to another. The distance between chemical arches 401 can be based on different factors, such as, for example, the dwell time between different detergents applied by chemical arches 401 and the speed of conveyor 107. In one embodiment, an optical sensor different from optical sensor 301 can be used to actuate chemical arches 401.

[0041] Optical Sensor 301 FIG. 5A illustrates multiple height points of a vehicle 101 according to one embodiment. As previously described, the optical sensor 301 is used in communication with the controller 109 to identify contours of the vehicle 101 that represent different height points of the vehicle 101. In FIG. 5A, dots 501 represent height points along one of the top surfaces of the vehicle 101. For example, dot 501A represents the height of the front of the vehicle (e.g., on the front bumper), dots 501B and 501D represent adjacent heights of the top surface of the vehicle 101 (e.g., on the hood), and dot 501C represents the height of the rear surface of the vehicle 101 (e.g., on the rear bumper). The optical sensor 301 and controller 109 can determine multiple height points along each of the front, top, and rear surfaces of the vehicle. FIG. 5B illustrates a graph 503 of height points of the vehicle 101 sensed by the optical sensor 301 and controller 109 over time. The different elevation points collectively represent the contour 505 of the top surface of the vehicle 101, as shown in Figure 5B.

[0042] As previously mentioned, in embodiments in which the optical sensor 301 is a light curtain sensor, the light curtain sensor may be positioned at an angle θ toward the front of the vehicle 101, as shown in FIG. 5A, where the angle θ is measured from a reference 309 that is perpendicular to the ground. To reduce the measurement distance between adjacent vehicle height points (e.g., heights 501B and 501D) measured using the optical sensor 301, the optical sensor 301 may be positioned at an angular range of 13 to 17 degrees from the reference 309. In one embodiment, the angular range of the optical sensor 301 is based on factors including the speed of the vehicle 101 through the car wash system 100 and the speed at which the telescopic unit 304 can be extended or retracted. In one embodiment, positioning the optical sensor 301 within an angular range of 13 to 17 degrees from the reference point 309 is based on the assumption that the vehicle travel speed is in the range of 200 mm / s to 380 mm / s (e.g., 7.8 in / s to 14.9 in / s) and that the telescopic unit 304 can retract / extend at a maximum speed of 1 m / s.

[0043] In general, the performance of the optical sensor 304 in measuring height points of the vehicle 101 varies depending on the angle of the optical sensor 301, as shown in Table 1 below. The performance of the optical sensor 301 represents the distance between adjacent height points. In one embodiment, optimal performance of the first cleaning stage 103 occurs when the distance measured by the optical sensor 301 between adjacent height points is 1 meter or less, assuming the telescopic unit 304 can telescope at a maximum speed of 1 m / s.

[0044] [Table 1] In general, the distance between adjacent height points measured using the optical sensor 301 varies depending on the angle of the optical sensor 301. For example, by positioning the optical sensor 301 in an angular range of 13 degrees to 17 degrees, adjacent height points measured using the optical sensor 301 can be within one meter of each other, and heights greater than one meter can be measured. Therefore, the angular range of 13 degrees to 17 degrees for the optical sensor 301 is optimal when the maximum speed of the telescopic unit 304 is 1 m / s.

[0045] In contrast, positioning the optical sensor at an angle less than the 13-17 degree angle range, such as between 0 and 12 degrees, increases the distance between adjacent height points on the front, top, and rear of the vehicle 101 compared to the distance between adjacent height points measured when the optical sensor 301 is at an angle within the 13-17 degree angle range. Also, because the optical sensor 301 can measure heights of 600 mm (23.6 in) or more, using an angle between 0 and 12 degrees is advantageous for determining the height of the front of the vehicle 101, but is disadvantageous for measuring the height of the rear of the vehicle 101.

[0046] Additionally, positioning the optical sensor at an angle greater than the 13-17 degree angle range, such as 18-20 degrees, reduces the distance between adjacent height points on the front, top, and rear of the vehicle 101 compared to the distance between adjacent height points measured when the optical sensor 301 angle is within the 13-17 degree angle range. However, because the optical sensor 301 can measure heights in excess of 800 mm (31.5 inches), using an 18-20 degree angle is advantageous for recognizing the height of the rear of the vehicle 101 but disadvantageous for measuring the front height of the vehicle 101. Therefore, using an angle range of 13-17 degrees for the optical sensor 301 provides the best performance for measuring the height of the front and rear of the vehicle 101 while reducing the distance between adjacent heights measured using the optical sensor 301.

[0047] Telescopic unit operation 6A-6H illustrate the operation of the first washing stage 103 of the car wash system 100 to wash the front, top, and rear of a vehicle 101 according to one embodiment. Specifically, FIGS. 6A-6H show how the height of the washing unit 306 is adjusted according to the vertical profile of the vehicle 101 by retracting or extending the telescopic unit 304. The height of the washing unit 306 is adjusted as the vehicle moves beneath the washing unit 306, thereby maintaining the washing unit 306 within a predetermined distance from the top of the vehicle 101, improving washing efficiency. In one embodiment, the washing unit 306 is maintained within a predetermined distance of 10-15 inches from the top of the vehicle 101 during the first washing stage 103 as the vehicle moves beneath the washing unit 306. By maintaining the wash unit 306 within a predetermined distance, the temperature of the water output by the wash unit 306 can be within a predetermined temperature range (e.g., 110-140°F) when the water contacts the top surface of the vehicle 101, thereby improving wash performance in one embodiment.

[0048] Figure 6A shows the initial position of the washing unit 306. The motor 304 extends the telescopic unit 304 to position the washing unit 306 at a position associated with a first height included in the contour of the vehicle 101 to begin washing the front surface 601 of the vehicle 101. In Figure 6B, the motor 305 retracts the telescopic unit 304 to raise the washing unit 306 according to the contour of the vehicle 101 as the washing unit continues to spray water to wash the front surface 601 of the vehicle 101. In Figure 6C, the motor 305 further retracts the telescopic unit 304, thereby raising the washing unit 306 to wash the top surface 603 (e.g., hood) of the vehicle 101. In Figure 6D, the motor 305 again retracts the telescopic unit 304, thereby further raising the cleaning unit 306 to clean the upper surface (e.g., roof) 603 of the vehicle 101, and the motor 305 maintains the height of the telescopic unit 304 across the roof of the vehicle 101 as shown in Figure 6E. In Figure 6F, the motor 305 extends the telescopic unit 304, thereby lowering the cleaning unit 306 to clean the upper surface (e.g., bed) 603 of the vehicle, and the motor 305 maintains the height of the telescopic unit 304 across the bed of the vehicle as shown in Figure 6F. The motor 305 further extends the telescopic unit 304 in Figures 6G-6H to clean the rear surface 605 of the vehicle 601, as described with respect to Figure 7.

[0049] 7 shows a detailed view of the first cleaning stage 103 when the rear face 605 of the vehicle 101 is being cleaned. As shown in FIG. 7, the telescopic unit 304 is positioned at an angle within a predetermined angle range α relative to a reference line 701 that is positioned perpendicular to the ground. In one embodiment, while the telescopic unit 304 is not in contact with the vehicle 101, the telescopic unit 304 is at the predetermined angle within the angle range α. That is, the telescopic unit 304 remains at that angle for the duration of the first cleaning stage 103 as long as there is no contact between the telescopic unit 304 and the vehicle 101.

[0050] As shown in FIG. 7 , the telescopic unit 304 is tilted toward the rear face 605 of the vehicle 101 as the vehicle moves away from the first cleaning stage 103. By tilting the telescopic unit 304 toward the rear face 605 at an angle α while cleaning the rear of the vehicle 101, the cleaning unit 306 can stay within a predetermined distance range from the rear face 605 of the vehicle 101 for a certain duration as the vehicle 101 moves further away from the first cleaning stage 103. If the telescopic unit 304 were not tilted toward the rear of the vehicle 101 while cleaning the rear face of the vehicle 101, the telescopic unit 304 would only move vertically (e.g., not horizontally), and the cleaning unit 306 would not be able to maintain a predetermined distance to the rear face of the vehicle 101 as the vehicle 101 moves away from the first cleaning stage 103. This would result in insufficient cleaning of the rear face of the vehicle 101.

[0051] However, because the telescopic unit 304 is tilted toward the rear face of the vehicle 101 at angle α while cleaning the rear face, the cleaning unit 306 can remain within a predetermined distance range from the rear face 605 of the vehicle 101 for a duration as the vehicle 101 moves further away from the first cleaning stage 103. While cleaning the rear face of the vehicle 101, the tilted telescopic unit 304 moves in both horizontal and vertical directions as the telescopic unit 304 is extended due to the telescopic unit 304 being tilted at angle α. Because the telescopic unit 304 moves in both horizontal and vertical directions as the telescopic unit 304 extends, the telescopic unit 304 enables the cleaning unit 304 to remain within a predetermined distance range from the rear of the vehicle 101 for a duration as the vehicle 101 moves further away from the first cleaning stage 103. That is, the first cleaning stage 103 follows the contour of the rear of the vehicle 101 as the vehicle 101 moves away from the first cleaning stage 103. Because the first cleaning stage 103 can follow the contour of the rear of the vehicle 101 as the vehicle moves away from the first cleaning stage 103, the rear of the vehicle 101 is more thoroughly cleaned compared to when the telescopic unit 304 moves only vertically while cleaning the rear of the vehicle 101.

[0052] In one embodiment, the telescopic unit 304 may be positioned at an angle within an angle range that coincides with the angle range of the optical sensor 301. That is, the telescopic unit 304 may be tilted at an angle within the same angle range as the optical sensor 301. For example, the telescopic unit 304 may be positioned at an angle within an angle range of 13 degrees to 17 degrees from the reference line 701, and the optical sensor 301 may also be tilted at an angle range of 13 degrees to 17 degrees. In one embodiment, the telescopic unit 304 is tilted at the same angle as the optical sensor 301. For example, the telescopic unit 304 and the optical sensor 301 are both tilted at an angle of 15 degrees. However, in other embodiments, the telescopic unit 304 is positioned at an angle different from that of the optical sensor 301. For example, the telescopic unit 304 may be positioned at an angle within an angle range of 13 degrees to 17 degrees from the reference line 701, but the optical sensor 301 is not tilted (e.g., positioned perpendicular to the ground).

[0053] In one embodiment, the angle range of the telescopic unit 304 is set based on various factors, including a predetermined distance range from the washing unit 306 to the top surface of the vehicle 301, the initial position (e.g., initial height) of the washing unit 306, and the size of the safety device 307. In one embodiment, positioning the telescopic unit 304 within an angle range of 13-17 degrees from the reference 701 is based on the assumption that the washing unit 306 will be maintained within a predetermined distance range of 10-15 inches from the top surface of the vehicle 100, the initial position of the washing unit 306 above the ground is within a range of 480 mm-520 mm (e.g., 18.8 in-20.5 in), and the diameter of the safety device 307 is within a range of 280 mm-320 mm (e.g., 11 in-12.6 in).

[0054] The performance of the telescopic unit 304 varies depending on the angle of the telescopic unit 304, as shown in Table 2 below.

[0055] [Table 2] Table 2 above describes the performance of the telescopic unit 304 when positioned at different angle ranges: 1) 0 degrees to 12 degrees, 2) 13 degrees to 17 degrees, and 3) 18 degrees to 20 degrees. The performance of the telescopic unit 304 is described in terms of different types of performance criteria, such as nozzle distance performance, collision performance, front wash performance, and rear wash performance. For each performance criteria type, each angle range is assigned a score of "excellent," "good," or "poor," as further described below.

[0056] In one embodiment, nozzle distance performance describes how well the end of the nozzle of the washing unit 306 can stay within a predetermined water nozzle distance range (e.g., 250 mm to 300 mm) to the upper surface of the vehicle 101 when the telescopic unit 304 is positioned at a given angle range. Note that the predetermined water nozzle distance range of 250 mm to 300 mm (e.g., 9.8 to 11.8 inches) is the range used to test various telescopic unit 304 angles. However, in one embodiment, the optimal water nozzle distance range for washing performance between the washing unit 306 and the upper surface of the vehicle 101 is 10 to 15 inches.

[0057] Generally, the nozzle of the washing unit 306 is positioned as close as possible to the top surface of the vehicle 101 without contacting the vehicle. In one embodiment, a score of "excellent" indicates that the washing unit 306 is maintained at the low end of a predetermined water nozzle distance range (e.g., 250 mm), while a score of "good" indicates that the washing unit 306 is maintained at a distance corresponding to the center of the range (e.g., 275 mm). A score of "poor" indicates that the washing unit 306 is located at a distance from the top surface of the vehicle 101 that is outside the predetermined water nozzle distance range. In one embodiment, a nozzle distance performance score of "good" or "excellent" is considered acceptable performance, while a score of "poor" is unacceptable performance.

[0058] As shown in Table 2, positioning the telescopic unit 304 at an angle between 13 and 17 degrees resulted in "good" nozzle distance performance, while positioning the telescopic unit 304 at an angle between 0 and 12 degrees resulted in "excellent" nozzle distance performance. In contrast, positioning the telescopic unit 304 at an angle between 18 and 20 degrees resulted in "poor" nozzle distance performance.

[0059] In one embodiment, crash performance describes the likelihood (e.g., risk) of a collision between the front, top, and rear of the telescopic unit 304 and the vehicle 101. With respect to crash performance, a score of "excellent" indicates a low likelihood of an impact occurring between the telescopic unit 304 and the vehicle 101, while a score of "good" indicates a possibility of an impact occurring between the telescopic unit 304 and the vehicle 101. Meanwhile, a score of "poor" indicates a high likelihood of a collision between the telescopic unit 304 and the vehicle 101. In one embodiment, a crash performance score of "good" or "excellent" is considered acceptable performance, while a score of "poor" is unacceptable performance.

[0060] As shown in Table 2, positioning the telescopic unit 304 in an angle range of 13-17 degrees resulted in "excellent" crash performance, indicating a low likelihood of a collision occurring between the telescopic unit 304 and the vehicle 101, while positioning the telescopic unit 304 in an angle range of 0-12 degrees resulted in "good" crash performance. Because the angle range of 0-12 degrees resulted in "good" crash performance, there is still a risk of contact between the telescopic unit 304 and the vehicle 101. As shown in Table 2, positioning the telescopic unit 304 in an angle range of 18-20 degrees resulted in "poor" performance, indicating a high likelihood of contact between the telescopic unit 304 and the vehicle 101.

[0061] In one embodiment, front cleaning performance refers to the efficiency of cleaning the front of the vehicle 101 using the first cleaning stage 103. Front cleaning efficiency relates to how well the front of the vehicle is cleaned. For front cleaning performance, a score of "excellent" indicates that almost all of the front of the vehicle is cleaned, while a score of "good" indicates that most of the front of the vehicle 101 is cleaned. Conversely, a score of "poor" indicates that most of the front of the vehicle is not cleaned after cleaning by the first cleaning stage 101. In one embodiment, a front performance score of "good" or "excellent" is considered acceptable performance, while a score of "poor" is unacceptable performance.

[0062] As shown in Table 2, when the telescopic unit 304 was positioned at an angle between 13 and 17 degrees, a "good" frontal washing performance was obtained in that a large portion of the front of the vehicle 101 was washed. Similarly, when the telescopic unit 304 was positioned at an angle between 0 and 12 degrees, a "good" frontal washing performance was obtained in that a large portion of the front of the vehicle 101 was washed. As shown in Table 2, when the telescopic unit 304 was positioned at an angle between 18 and 20 degrees, a "poor" performance was obtained, indicating that a large portion of the front of the vehicle 101 was not washed after washing by the first washing stage 101.

[0063] In one embodiment, rear wash performance refers to the rear wash efficiency of the rear of the vehicle 101 using the first wash stage 103. Rear wash efficiency relates to how well the rear of the vehicle is washed. For rear wash performance, a score of "excellent" indicates that almost all of the rear of the vehicle is washed, a score of "good" indicates that most of the rear of the vehicle 101 is washed, and a score of "poor" indicates that most of the rear of the vehicle is not washed after the first wash stage 101 has washed. In one embodiment, a rear performance score of "good" or "excellent" is considered acceptable performance, while a score of "poor" is unacceptable performance.

[0064] As shown in Table 2, positioning the telescopic unit 304 at an angle range of 13 degrees to 17 degrees resulted in "good" cleaning performance in that most of the rear of the vehicle 101 was cleaned. Due to the telescopic unit 304's angle range of 13 degrees to 17 degrees, the cleaning unit 306 was able to clean most of the rear of the vehicle 101 as the vehicle 101 moved away from the front cleaning stage 101. In contrast, positioning the telescopic unit 304 at an angle range of 0 degrees to 12 degrees resulted in "poor" rear cleaning performance in that most of the front of the vehicle 101 was not cleaned. Due to the shallow angle of the telescopic unit 304 when positioned at an angle range of 0 degrees to 12 degrees, the cleaning unit 306 was unable to properly clean the rear of the vehicle 101 as it moved away from the front cleaning stage 101 due to the telescopic unit 304 moving vertically rather than horizontally. Because the telescopic unit 304 moves mostly vertically, the washing unit 306 cannot stay within a predetermined distance to the rear of the vehicle 101 as the vehicle 101 moves away from the first washing stage 103. Finally, when the telescopic unit 304 is positioned at an angle range of 18 degrees to 20 degrees, an "excellent" rear washing performance was obtained in that most of the rear of the vehicle 101 was washed during the first washing stage 101. Due to the large angle, the telescopic unit 304 moves both horizontally and vertically as it extends to wash the rear of the vehicle 101, allowing the washing unit 306 to wash almost all of the rear of the vehicle 101 as the vehicle 101 moves away from the first washing stage 101.

[0065] As shown in Table 2, generally, as the angle range of the telescopic unit 304 decreases, the likelihood of collision decreases, but the overall cleaning performance (e.g., front and rear cleaning performance) also decreases. In contrast, as the angle range of the telescopic unit 304 increases, the overall cleaning efficiency (e.g., front and rear cleaning performance) increases, but at the expense of decreased collision performance. An angle range of 13 to 17 degrees for the telescopic unit 304 provides the best balance of different types of performance criteria, such as nozzle distance performance, collision performance, front cleaning performance, and rear cleaning performance.

[0066] Telescopic unit 304 8A-8D show detailed views of the stages of the telescopic unit 304 according to one embodiment. The states of the telescopic unit 304 are between the different states of the telescopic unit 304 shown in FIGS. 8A-8D. In one embodiment, the telescopic unit 304 includes multiple rail stages 801A, 801B, 801C, and 801D. For example, rail stage 801A is a first rail stage, rail stage 801B is a second rail stage, rail stage 801C is a third rail stage, and rail stage 801D is a fourth rail stage. In one embodiment, the telescopic unit 304 is foldable so that rail stages 801B-801D can be folded to fit within rail stage 801A, as described below. Rail stage 801 may be made of aluminum, for example, although other materials may also be used.

[0067] 8A shows telescoping unit 304 in a fully extended state. In the fully extended state, each rail stage 801 is fully extended to protrude as far as possible from the rail stage in front of it. In the fully extended state, telescoping unit 304 is at its longest possible length. In the fully extended state of telescoping unit 304, rail stage 801D is fully extended from rail stage 801C, which is fully extended from rail stage 801B, which is fully extended from rail stage 801A.

[0068] 8B shows the telescopic unit 304 in a first intermediate state. In the first intermediate state, the last rail stage 801D is folded into the previous rail stage 801C. In the first intermediate state, rail stage 801D is housed within the previous rail stage 801C, and rail stage 801C and rail stage 801B are fully extended from their respective previous rail stages. For example, rail stage 801C is fully extended from rail stage 801B, and rail stage 801B is fully extended from rail stage 801A.

[0069] 8C shows the telescopic unit 304 in a second intermediate state. In the second intermediate state, the last rail stage 801D is folded into the previous rail stage 801C, and the third rail stage 801C is folded into the previous rail stage 801B. In the second intermediate state, the rail stage 801C is housed within the previous rail stage 801B, and the rail stage 801B is fully extended from its respective previous rail stage. For example, the rail stage 801B is fully extended from the rail stage 801A. Because the last rail stage 801D is folded into the rail stage 801C from the first intermediate stage, the last rail stage 801D is also folded into the rail stage 801B, and the rail stage 801C is folded into the rail stage 801B.

[0070] FIG. 8D shows the telescopic unit 304 in a fully folded state. In the fully folded state, the telescopic unit 304 has the shortest possible length. As shown in FIG. 8D, in the fully folded state, the second rail stage 801B is folded into the previous rail stage 801A (e.g., the first rail stage). Both rail stage 801D and rail stage 801C are folded into rail stage 801B in the second intermediate state, so that in the fully folded state, rail stages 801D, 801C, and 801B are all housed within rail stage 801A.

[0071] 8E shows a plan view of each of the rail stages 801A-801D according to one embodiment. As shown in FIG. 8E, each of the rail stages 801A-801D includes a plurality of vertical side surfaces 802 arranged along a first direction (e.g., the Y direction) and a plurality of horizontal side surfaces 803 arranged along a second direction (e.g., the X direction). For example, the plurality of vertical side surfaces 802 of each of the rail stages 801A-801D includes a vertical side surface 802A and a vertical side surface 802B opposite the vertical side surface 802A. Furthermore, the plurality of horizontal side surfaces 803 of each of the rail stages 801A-801D includes, for example, a horizontal side surface 803A, a horizontal side surface 803B, and a horizontal side surface 803B that are spaced apart from one another.

[0072] Each rail stage 801A-801D includes an outer width A measured from the outer edge 805A of the vertical side 802A to the outer edge 805B of the vertical side 802B of the respective rail stage 801, and an inner width B measured from the inner edge 807A of the vertical side 802A to the inner edge 807B of the vertical side 802B of the respective rail stage. As shown in Figure A, for each rail stage, the outer width A is greater than the inner width B.

[0073] As shown in FIG. 8E, rail stage 801A is the widest of all rail stages, considering that rail stages 801B to 801D are configured to be accommodated within rail stage 801A when telescopic unit 304 is fully folded. That is, rail stage 801A has the widest width A of all rail stages 801A to 801D. Each subsequent rail stage following rail stage 801A has a smaller width A than the preceding rail stage. For example, the outer width A of rail stage 801B is smaller than the outer width A of rail stage 801A but larger than the outer widths A of rail stage 801C and rail stage 801D. The outer width A of rail stage 801C is wider than the outer width A of rail stage 801D but smaller than the outer width A of rail stage 801B and rail stage 801A. Finally, the outer width A of rail stage 801D is smaller than the outer width A of each of rail stages 801A to 801C.

[0074] In one embodiment, the outer width A of each rail stage except rail stage 801A is smaller than the inner width B of the rail stage immediately preceding the given rail stage. This allows each rail stage except rail stage 801A to fit within the preceding rail stage when the telescopic unit 304 is folded. For example, the outer width A of rail stage 801B is smaller than the inner width B of rail stage 801A so that rail stage 801B can fit within rail stage 801A when the telescopic unit 304 is folded. Similarly, the outer width A of rail stage 801C is smaller than the inner width B of rail stage 801B so that rail stage 801C can fit within rail stage 801B when the telescopic unit 304 is folded. Finally, the outer width A of rail stage 801D is smaller than the inner width B of rail stage 801C so that rail stage 801D can fit within rail stage 801C when the telescopic unit 304 is folded.

[0075] FIG. 8F shows a perspective view of the telescoping unit 304, according to one embodiment. When fully extended, the telescoping unit 304 has a length C of 266-267 inches, according to one embodiment. However, other lengths for length C may be used. The rail stages each have a length E (e.g., lengths E1, E2, E3, and E4). In one embodiment, rail stage 801A is the longest rail stage, having a length E1 of 89 inches. The remaining rail stages 801B-801D have the same length E, which in one embodiment is 59 inches. In other embodiments, rail stages 801B-801D have different lengths or the same length.

[0076] In one embodiment, each rail stage 801 has a thickness D. Rail stage 801A has the largest thickness D of all rail stages 801 (e.g., thicknesses D1, D2, D3, and D3). The thickness D4 of each rail stage 801 following rail stage 801A decreases such that the thickness D of a given rail stage is smaller than the preceding rail stage. For example, thickness D2 of rail stage 801B is smaller than thickness D1 of rail stage 801A. Similarly, thickness D3 of rail stage 801C is smaller than thickness D2 of rail stage 801B. Finally, thickness D4 of rail stage 801D is smaller than thickness D3 of rail stage 801C.

[0077] 9A-9D, components of a rail stage 801 according to one embodiment are shown. The components of the rail stage 801 shown in FIGS. 9A-9D are applicable to all rail stages 801. In one embodiment, each vertical side 802 of each rail stage 801 except for rail stage 801A includes multiple side rollers 902 disposed at one end (e.g., the top end) of the rail stage 801. FIG. 9A shows that the vertical side 802 of rail stage 801B includes a first side roller 902A and a second side roller 902B. The side rollers 902 of each rail stage 801 are attached to the outer edge 805 of the rail stage 801. Referring specifically to FIG. 9C, each side roller 902 is attached to the outer surface 805 of its respective rail stage 801 using fasteners such as nuts 909 and bolts 907.

[0078] Thus, each rail stage 801, except for rail stage 801A, may include a total of four side rollers 901, with two side rollers attached to the outer edge 805 of each vertical side 802 of the rail stage 801. Having four side rollers 901 reduces the possibility of vibration while the telescopic unit 304 is being folded or extended. In one embodiment, the side rollers 902 are made of nylon, although other materials may be used. The diameter of the side rollers 901 is, for example, 1 inch, but other diameters may also be used.

[0079] Additionally, in one embodiment, both vertical sides 802A and 802B of each rail stage 801 include slots 901 extending along the length of each vertical side 802, as shown in FIG. 9A . The side rollers 902 of a given rail stage are disposed within the slots 901 of the rail stage preceding the given rail stage. For example, assuming FIG. 9A shows the side rollers 902 of rail stage 801B, the side rollers 902 are disposed within the slots 901 of rail stage 801A. The combination of the side rollers 902 and the slots 901 on the rail stages limits the direction in which the telescopic unit 304 can move toward the slots 901 during extension or retraction of the telescopic unit 304.

[0080] In one embodiment, each vertical side surface 802 of each rail stage 801 includes one or more cam rollers 903. The cam rollers 903 of each rail stage 801 are disposed at at least one end of the rail stage 801. The cam rollers 903 may be disposed at both the upper and lower ends of the rail stage 801, or may be disposed at only one end of the rail stage. FIG. 9A shows that the vertical side surface 802 of the rail stage 801A includes a cam roller 903 disposed in a notch 905 formed in a corner of the lower end of the vertical side surface 802 of the rail stage 801A. The cam roller 903 protrudes from the notch 905 in the vertical side surface 802 of the rail stage 801A in a direction perpendicular to the outer surface 805 of the vertical side surface 802 of the rail stage 801A. As shown in FIG. 9C, cam roller 903 includes a threaded end 911 that threads into a hole formed in notch 905 in vertical side 902 of rail stage 801 to attach cam roller 903 to the vertical side 902. Cam roller 903 has a diameter of, for example, 1.4 inches, but other diameters are possible. Cam roller 903 may be made of nylon, but may also be made of other materials.

[0081] In one embodiment, the cam rollers 903 of each rail stage 801 contact the outer surface 805 of the subsequent rail stage 801. For example, the cam rollers 903 of rail stage 801A contact the outer surface 805 of rail stage 801B, as shown in FIG. 9A . The use of cam rollers 903 improves the smooth movement of the telescopic unit 304 as the rail stages 801 are folded and extended. The cam rollers 903 also help guide each rail stage 801 in the proper direction as the rail stages 801 are folded and extended. In one embodiment, assuming the cam rollers 903 and side rollers 902 are made of nylon and the rail stage 801 is made of aluminum, wear on the rollers 902, 903 and rail stage 801 is reduced, thereby extending the time between part replacements of the telescopic unit 304.

[0082] As the telescopic unit 304 transitions between the collapsed state and the extended state, the different rail stages 801 of the telescopic unit 304 collide with each other. Collisions between the different rail stages 801 create shocks that can damage the telescopic unit 304. In one embodiment, each rail stage 801 of the telescopic unit 304 includes one or more shock mitigation units 1000, as shown in FIGS. 10A-10E, to reduce damage to the different rail stages 801 as the telescopic unit 304 is extended or retracted.

[0083] In one embodiment, the shock absorbing unit 1000B at the upper end of the rail stage 801 includes a shock absorbing block 1001. In one embodiment, the shock absorbing block 1001 is made of a shock absorbing material used for shock absorbing, such as urethane, although other materials may be used. The shock absorbing block 1001 is attached to the uppermost horizontal side surface 803 of the rail stage 801, as shown in FIG. 10A . The shock absorbing block 1001 is made of a material that is more elastic than the uppermost horizontal side surface 803 of the rail stage. The width of the shock absorbing block 1001 may be the same as or smaller than the width of the uppermost horizontal side surface 803 of the rail stage 801.

[0084] In one embodiment, the shock absorbing unit 1000A at the bottom of the rail stage 801 includes a shock absorber 1003 and a plurality of shock absorbing pads 1005. In one embodiment, the shock absorber 1003 may be positioned between the ends (e.g., in the center) of the lowermost horizontal side 803 of the rail stage, as shown in FIG. 10A. The plurality of shock absorbing pads 1005 may include a first shock absorbing pad 1005A attached to one side (e.g., the left side) of the shock absorber 1003 and a second shock absorbing pad 1005B attached to the other side (e.g., the right side) of the shock absorber 1003. The plurality of shock absorbing pads 1005 are attached to the lowermost horizontal side 803 of the rail stage. The plurality of shock absorbing pads 1005 are formed of a material that is more elastic than the lowermost horizontal side 803 of the rail stage. For example, the shock absorbing pads 1005 may be made of urethane, but may also be made of other materials.

[0085] In one embodiment, middle rail stages 801B-801C may include shock mitigation unit 1000A at the upper end of the rail stage and shock mitigation unit 1000B at the lower end of rail stage 801. In contrast, end rail stages 801A and 801D may include one of shock mitigation units 1000A or 1000B. For example, rail stage 801A may include shock mitigation unit 1000B at the lower end of rail stage 801A without having shock mitigation unit 1000 at the upper end of rail stage 801A, and rail stage 801D may include shock mitigation unit 1000A at the upper end of rail stage 801D without having shock mitigation unit 1000B at the lower end of rail stage 801D.

[0086] 10B and 10C illustrate the use of the shock absorbing unit 1000B when the telescopic unit 304 is folded according to one embodiment. FIG. 10B illustrates the shock absorbing unit 1000B of the rail stage 801. The shock absorbing unit 1000B includes a shock absorbing block 1001. FIG. 10C illustrates that the shock absorbing unit 1000B absorbs the shock between two adjacent rail stages 801 when the telescopic unit 304 is folded. In FIG. 10C, the shock absorbing block 1001 reduces the amount of shock between the adjacent rail stages when the shock absorbing block 1001 contacts the horizontal side surface 803 of the adjacent rail stage. Because the shock absorbing block 1001 is made of a material (e.g., urethane) that is more elastic than the horizontal side surface 803 of the adjacent rail stage, the shock absorbing block 1001 absorbs the shock between the adjacent rail stages when they come into contact with each other.

[0087] 10D and 10E illustrate the use of a shock absorbing unit 1000A when the telescopic unit 304 is extended according to one embodiment. FIGS. 10D and 10E show the shock absorbing unit 1000A of the rail stage 801. The shock absorbing unit 1000A includes a shock absorber 1003 and a plurality of shock absorbing pads 1005. In one embodiment, the telescopic unit 304 can extend at a faster rate than it can fold under a given gravity. Therefore, the shock absorber 1003 can be used to protect the telescopic unit 304 from damage during extension.

[0088] 10D and 10E show that the shock absorbing unit 1000B absorbs the impact between two adjacent rail stages 801 when the telescopic unit 304 is extended. In FIGS. 10D and 10E, the shock absorber 1003 first contacts the horizontal side 803 of the adjacent rail stage when the telescopic unit 304 is extended. The shock absorber 1003 slows the speed at which the two rail stages come into contact. A plurality of shock absorbing pads 1005 contact the horizontal side 803 of the adjacent rail stage to further absorb the impact of the collision between the adjacent rail stages and reduce damage to the telescopic unit 304 during extension of the telescopic unit 304.

[0089] 11 shows a detailed view of the mechanism for retracting and folding the telescopic unit of the first cleaning stage 103, according to one embodiment. As previously described, the first cleaning stage includes a motor 305 connected to the telescopic unit 304. The first cleaning stage 103 also includes a wire 319 having a first end connected to the drum 321 (shown in FIG. 12) and a second end connected to the telescopic unit 304. In one embodiment, the second end of the wire 319 is connected to the lowermost horizontal side 803 of the last rail stage 801D.

[0090] In one embodiment, the telescoping unit 304 is folded or extended as a result of the motor 305 raising or lowering, respectively, the wire 319 via the drum 321 according to the profile of the vehicle 101. The controller 109 uses the vertical profile of the vehicle 101 to control the amount that the motor 305 rotates to raise or lower the wire 319 to obtain various height points represented in the vertical profile of the vehicle 101. As described further below, in one embodiment, a lookup table may be stored that converts the number of rotations required by the motor 305 to obtain an amount of vertical movement that maps to a particular height point in the vertical profile of the vehicle 101.

[0091] For example, assuming that the telescopic unit 304 is in a fully extended state or in an intermediate state between the fully extended state and the fully folded state, when the motor 305 raises the wire 319, each of the multiple rail stages 801 of the telescopic unit 304 is raised to be housed within the adjacent rail stage as described above. The multiple rail stages 801 can be raised by the motor 305 and the wire 319 until the telescopic unit 304 is in a fully folded state or in an intermediate state between the fully folded state and the fully extended state.

[0092] Conversely, assuming that the telescopic unit 304 is in a fully folded state or an intermediate state between the fully folded state and the fully extended state, the multiple rail stages 801 of the telescopic unit 304 will extend when the motor 305 lowers the wire 319. The multiple rail stages 801 can be lowered by the motor 305 and the wire 319 until the telescopic unit 304 is in a fully extended state or an intermediate state between the fully folded state and the fully extended state.

[0093] In one embodiment, the motor 305 applies only a vertical force to the wire 319 to retract or extend the telescopic unit 304. That is, the motor 305 applies a force to the wire 319 in a vertical direction, not a horizontal direction, to retract or extend the telescopic unit 304. However, if the telescopic unit 304 is positioned at an angle, the telescopic unit 304 will move in both vertical and horizontal directions depending on the vertical force applied by the motor 305 when retracting the telescopic unit 304 or extending the telescopic unit 304.

[0094] In one embodiment, wire 319 is formed from a flexible material such as high modulus polyethylene (e.g., ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE)), which is commonly used in marine applications (e.g., boats). However, other embodiments may use materials other than UHMWPE. Wire 319 may have a thickness of 0.3 inches and, in one embodiment, is 165 inches long. However, other wire thicknesses and lengths may be used in other embodiments.

[0095] 12A, 12B, and 12C show detailed views of the drum 321 and wire 319 for extending and retracting the telescoping rails 304 of the first cleaning stage 103 according to one embodiment. Referring to FIG. 12A, the first cleaning stage 101 further includes a drum 321. The drum 321 may be formed from nylon and may have a diameter of, for example, 7.8 inches. Other materials and sizes of the drum 321 may be used in other embodiments.

[0096] In one embodiment, the drum 321 is coupled to the motor 304, and one end of the wire 319 is connected to the drum 321. When the motor 304 rotates, the drum 321 also rotates, thereby winding the wire 319 around the drum 321 or unwinding the wire 319 from the drum 321. For example, when the drum 321 rotates clockwise, the telescopic rail 304 collapses as the wire 319 wraps around the drum 321. When the drum 321 rotates counterclockwise, the telescopic rail 304 expands, unwinding the wire 319 from the drum 321.

[0097] 12B and 12C are cross-sectional views of the drum 321 taken along line A-A' according to one embodiment. In one embodiment, the drum 321 includes a plurality of grooves 1201. When the wire 319 is wound around the drum 321, the wire 319 is positioned within the plurality of grooves 1201. In one embodiment, the diameter of the wire 319 is greater than the depth of the plurality of grooves 1201. This reduces the chance of the wire 319 breaking as the light 319 is wound onto or unwound from the drum 321.

[0098] Cleaning Unit 306 13A-13D show detailed views of the wash unit 306. In one embodiment, the wash unit 306 includes a front manifold 306A and a rear manifold 306B. The front manifold 306A is a chamber that contains water used to wash the front and top surfaces of the vehicle 101, and the rear manifold 306B is a chamber that contains water used to wash the rear surface of the vehicle 101. The front and rear manifolds 306A, 306B may be formed from a metal such as stainless steel, although other materials may be used.

[0099] FIG. 13A shows a perspective view of the cleaning unit 306 in one embodiment, and FIG. 13B shows a side view of the cleaning unit 306. As shown in FIG. 13A, the front manifold 306A and the rear manifold 306B have a pipe shape. In one embodiment, the front and rear manifolds 306 are 63 inches long with a 1-inch diameter. In one embodiment, the front manifold 306A and the rear manifold 306B are attached to the lower end of the last rail stage 801D of the telescopic unit 304. The front manifold 306A and the rear manifold 306B may be attached to the end of the rail stage 801 using couplers 1303A and 1303B. Couplers 13013 are positioned on either side of the end of the last rail stage 801D and surround at least a portion of the front manifold 306A and the rear manifold 306B, as shown in FIGS. 13A and 13B.

[0100] In one embodiment, front manifold 306A includes an input port 1301A connected to water supply line 303A. Input port 1301A supplies water supplied by water supply line 303A to front manifold 306A. Rear manifold 306B has an input port 1301B connected to water supply line 303B. Input port 1301B supplies water supplied by water supply line 303B to rear manifold 306B.

[0101] The front manifold 306A sprays water supplied by the water supply line 303A using a plurality of nozzles 1305, shown in FIG. 13C . As previously described, the front manifold 306A is used to wash the front and top surfaces of the vehicle 101 until the front and top surfaces no longer overlap the front manifold 306A. In one embodiment, the nozzles 1305 are equally spaced from one another. For example, each nozzle 1305 may be 10.2 inches from an adjacent nozzle 1305. Other distance spacing between nozzles may also be used. In one embodiment, the water sprayed from each nozzle 1305 forms an overlap 1309 with the water sprayed by adjacent nozzles 1305. The overlap 1309 of the sprayed water improves the efficiency of washing the front and top surfaces of the vehicle 101. In one embodiment, the overlap 1309 of the water sprayed by adjacent nozzles 1305 is 1.5 inches.

[0102] The rear manifold 306B sprays water supplied by the water supply line 303B using a plurality of nozzles 1307. As previously described, the rear manifold 306B is used to wash the rear top and rear of the vehicle 101, while the rear top and rear overlap with the rear manifold 306B. The nozzles 1307 of the rear manifold 306B and the nozzles 1305 of the front manifold 306A are interdependently controlled to wash the front, top, and rear of the vehicle 101, as described below. In one embodiment, the nozzles 1307 are equally spaced from one another, as are the nozzles 1305. For example, each nozzle 1307 may be 10.2 inches from an adjacent nozzle 1307. Other distance spacings between the nozzles 1307 may also be used. In one embodiment, the water sprayed from each nozzle 1307 forms an overlap 1311 with the water sprayed by an adjacent nozzle 1307. The overlapping of the jets of water 1311 improves the cleaning efficiency of the rear of the vehicle 101. In one embodiment, the overlap 1311 of water jetted by adjacent nozzles 1307 is 1.5 inches.

[0103] 13D illustrates the angle of the nozzles 1305 of the front manifold 306A and the angle of the nozzles 1307 of the rear manifold 306B relative to a reference line 1313 parallel to the ground, according to one embodiment. In one embodiment, the angle 1315 of the nozzles 1305 is less than the angle 1317 of the nozzles 1307. For example, the nozzles 1305 of the front manifold 306A are angled 5 degrees above the reference line 1313, while the nozzles 1307 of the rear manifold 306B are angled 60 degrees below the reference line 1313. The placement of the nozzles 1305 and 1307, combined with maintaining the nozzles 1305 and 1307 within predetermined distances of the front, top, and rear of the vehicle 101, provides the most effective cleaning. Note that the angles of the nozzles 1305, 1307 are exemplary, and other angles may be used in other embodiments.

[0104] FIG. 14 illustrates another embodiment of the cleaning unit 306. In the embodiment of FIG. 14, the cleaning unit 306 includes a tilting device 1405, a water manifold 1401, and nozzles 1403 according to one embodiment. In FIG. 14, the cleaning unit 306 includes a single manifold rather than two water manifolds as described in the embodiment of FIG. 14. In one embodiment, a set of nozzles 1403 rotates about the axis of the water manifold 1401 depending on whether the front, top, or rear of the vehicle is being cleaned. That is, the nozzles 1403 rotate between position A and position B, allowing the angle of the nozzles 1403 to be changed depending on which portion of the vehicle 101 is being cleaned. The angle of the water manifold 1401 is changed by the tilting device 1405. The tilting device 1405 may include a gear that rotates to change the rotation of the nozzles 1403 between position A and position B.

[0105] Safety Device 307 15A shows a detailed view of the safety device 307 according to one embodiment. As previously described, the safety device 307 includes the safety device 307A in a first portion of the washing unit 306 and the safety device 307B in a second portion of the washing unit 306 such that the safety devices 307A and 307B are spaced apart from each other. The safety device 307 reduces damage to the vehicle 101 in the event of an impact between the telescopic unit 305 and the vehicle 101 due to the safety device 307 and the material of the safety device 307 rolling along the top surface of the vehicle 101 upon contact between the safety device 307 and the vehicle 101.

[0106] 15B shows an exploded view of safety device 307. In one embodiment, safety device 307A and safety device 307B each include a housing 1501, a damage mitigation device 1503, a cover 1505, a bushing 1507, and a bracket 1509. Housing 1501 serves as a frame for safety device 307A. All components of safety device 307B attach to housing 1501.

[0107] Housing 1501, in one embodiment, includes a groove 1511. Impact mitigation device 1503 is disposed within groove 1511 of housing 1501. As shown in FIG. 15B , in one embodiment, impact mitigation device 1503 has a ring shape with a curved surface. Due to the curved surface of injury mitigation device 1503, groove 1511 also has a curved surface that corresponds to the curvature of injury mitigation device 1503 to ensure a snug fit of injury mitigation device 1503 within groove 1511.

[0108] The damage mitigation device 1503 is formed from a resilient material to reduce damage to the vehicle 101 upon contact between the safety device 307 and the vehicle 101. The damage mitigation device 1503 is formed from an impact absorbing material such as, for example, ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM). In one embodiment, in the event of contact, the only portion of the safety device 307 that contacts the vehicle is the damage mitigation device 1503. Damage to the vehicle 101 is reduced due to the impact absorption by the damage mitigation device 1503 and the rolling of the safety device 307 while the safety device 307 is in contact with the vehicle 101.

[0109] In one embodiment, the bushing 1507 is inserted into a central hole in the housing 1501. The bushing 1507 may be, for example, a sleeve bearing. The bracket 1509 is inserted into the bushing 1507 so that the bracket 1509 is positioned on one side (e.g., the left side) of the housing 1501. The bracket 1509 includes a plurality of holes 1513 that align with holes 1515 in the housing 1501 and holes 1517 in the cover 1505. The cover 1505 is inserted into the other side (e.g., the right side) of the housing 1501. Fasteners (e.g., screws, nuts, bolts, etc.) can be used to secure the bracket 1509, housing 1501, and cover 1505 together.

[0110] Rotating Device 1600 FIG. 16A illustrates a collision between the vehicle 101 and the safety device 307 during the first cleaning stage 103. In one embodiment, the first cleaning stage 103 includes a rotation device 1600, shown in FIGS. 16B-16C, that rotates the telescopic unit 304 in response to a collision between the vehicle 101 and the safety device 307. In one embodiment, the rotation device 1600 is a passive device. The force of the collision between the vehicle 101 and the safety device 307 causes the rotation device 1600 to rotate the telescopic unit 304 about the hinge point 1608, thereby increasing the angle α between the telescopic unit 304 and the reference line 701. As previously discussed, the telescopic unit 304 is positioned within an angular range of 13-17 degrees from the reference line 701 during normal operation of the first cleaning stage 103. However, in the event of a collision between the vehicle 101 and the safety device 307, the telescopic unit 304 is rotated upward to an angle greater than the 13-17 degree angle range to prevent or at least reduce further damage to the vehicle 101. For example, the rotation device 1600 allows the telescopic unit 304 to rotate upward to an angle of up to 60 degrees from the reference 701.

[0111] 16B, a rotation device 1600 according to one embodiment is shown. As shown in FIG. 16B, the rotation device 1600, in one embodiment, includes a shock 1601 mounted to the mounting plate 313, a hinge point 1608, and an oil supply source 1603. The shock 1601 includes a first end connected to the telescoping unit 304 and a second end connected to the mounting plate 313. The first end of the shock 1601 may be connected to the horizontal side 803 of one of the multiple rail stages 801, such as the horizontal side 803 of the rail stage 801A. The oil supply 1603 is coupled to the shock 1601 to supply oil to the shock 1601.

[0112] To reduce damage to the vehicle 101, the telescoping unit 304 rotates upward about the hinge point 1608 upon impact between the vehicle 101 and the safety device 307. As previously described, the telescoping unit 304 rotates due to forces from the collision between the vehicle 101 and the safety device 307.

[0113] In one embodiment, pressure is constantly supplied to the oil source 1603 which applies oil to the shock 1601. As a result, the shock 1601 exerts a constant force on the telescopic unit 304 reducing the weight of the telescopic unit 304 as it rotates about the hinge point 1608. Once the vehicle 101 has passed the first washing stage 103, the telescopic unit 304 returns to its initial position due to gravity and the weight of the telescopic unit 304.

[0114] In one embodiment, the shock 1601 applies a constant force to the telescopic unit 304, thereby slowing the rate at which the angle of the telescopic unit 304 returns to its initial position. However, while the weight and gravity of the telescopic unit 304 are sufficient to overcome the force applied by the shock 1601, the shock can still slow the rate at which the telescopic unit 304 returns to its original initial angle. If the first cleaning stage 103 lacks the shock 1601 and oil source 1603, the telescopic unit 304 will quickly return to its initial angle before impact, thereby increasing the possibility of damage to the first cleaning stage 103.

[0115] Overview of a first embodiment of the second cleaning stage 105 17, a perspective view of the second washing stage 105 of the car wash system 100 is shown according to one embodiment. In one embodiment, the second washing stage 105 includes a frame 1701, a plurality of arms 1703, a plurality of base assemblies 1705, a plurality of nozzle assemblies 1707, a plurality of collision prevention units 1709, an intermediate stop circuit line 1711, and a cylinder 1713, each of which is described in further detail below. However, the second washing stage 105 may have additional or fewer components than those described herein.

[0116] The frame 1701 is a structure used to support other components of the second cleaning stage 105. For example, one end of each of the multiple arms 1703 is attached to the frame 1701, and a base assembly 1705 attached to the other end of the multiple arms 1703 is suspended (e.g., suspended) so as not to contact the ground. In particular, the multiple arms 1703 are attached to a mounting plate 1701D included in the frame 1701. In one embodiment, the multiple arms 1703 and the multiple base assemblies 1705 are collectively considered a width adjustment unit of the second cleaning stage 105.

[0117] The frame 1701 includes a plurality of frame rails that collectively form the frame 1701. Note that the frame rails 1701A-1701C shown in FIG. 17 are merely examples of horizontal and vertical frame rails. The frame 1701 may be made of metal, such as steel or aluminum, or other metals. In one embodiment, the frame 1701 has a height greater than 90 inches (e.g., 119.7 inches) and a width greater than 126 inches (e.g., 165.4 inches). This allows the second cleaning stage 105 to accommodate vehicles 101 having a maximum height of 90 inches and a maximum width of 126 inches. However, the frame 1701 may have different dimensions depending on the size of the vehicle being cleaned.

[0118] In one embodiment, a plurality of arms 1703 support a base assembly 1705. The plurality of arms 1703 includes a first set of arms and a second set of arms. Each set of arms is configured to connect to one of the plurality of base assemblies 1705. For example, the first set of arms includes arms 1703A and 1703B that connect base assembly 1705A (e.g., the driver's side base assembly) to frame 1701. The second set of arms includes arms 1703C and 1703D that connect base assembly 1705B (e.g., the passenger's side base assembly) to frame 1701. As shown in FIG. 17 , the base assembly 1705 is connected to the arms 1703 and is therefore suspended above (not in contact with) the ground.

[0119] In one embodiment, the base assembly 1705 adjusts the variable width of the second cleaning stage 105. Generally, the base assembly 1705 is suspended from the ground by hanging from the frame 1701 via hanging arms 1703 (e.g., the base assembly 1705 is suspended above ground level) and contacts the vehicle 101 to adjust the width of the second cleaning stage 105 based on the width of the vehicle 101. As described further below, the base assembly 1705 contacts the tires of the vehicle 101, thereby pushing the base assembly 1705 outward to adjust the width of the second cleaning stage 105 according to the width of the vehicle 101.

[0120] In one embodiment, a plurality of nozzle assemblies 1707 (e.g., washing units) wash the vehicle 101 by spraying water onto the sides of the vehicle 101. In other embodiments, the nozzle assemblies 1707 may spray a detergent, such as soap, in addition to water. The nozzle assemblies 1707 are mounted on a base assembly 1705 as shown in FIG. 17, such that the nozzle assemblies 1707 are also suspended above the ground.

[0121] In one embodiment, each nozzle assembly 1707 is mounted to a corresponding one of the base assemblies 1705. For example, nozzle assembly 1707A is mounted to base assembly 1705A, and nozzle assembly 1707B is mounted to base assembly 1705B. Because the nozzle assemblies 1707 are mounted to the base assembly 1705, the lateral position of the nozzle assemblies 1707 varies based on the width of the vehicle 101 being washed. Thus, the distance from the nozzle assemblies 1707 to the side of the vehicle 101 being washed can be kept within a predetermined distance range that improves the efficiency of washing the side of the vehicle compared to conventional car wash systems with nozzle assemblies that have static positions.

[0122] Water supply lines 1717 supply water to nozzle assemblies 1707. Each water supply line 1717 is connected to a corresponding nozzle assembly 1707. For example, a water supply line is connected to nozzle assembly 1707A and a water supply line is connected to nozzle assembly 1707B.

[0123] In one embodiment, the multiple collision prevention units 1709 prevent the base assembly 1705 from being positioned under the vehicle 101. The multiple collision prevention units 1709 may contact the side of the vehicle 101, thereby preventing the base assembly 1705 from moving further inward toward the center of the second cleaning stage 105. If the base assembly 1705 moves toward the center of the second cleaning stage 105, the base assembly 1705 may go below the vehicle 101 and may damage the vehicle 101 when it contacts the underside of the vehicle 101. Furthermore, if the base assembly 1705 goes below the vehicle 101, it may contact the side of the vehicle 101. Thus, the collision prevention units 1709 prevent the nozzle assembly 1705 from colliding with the side of the vehicle 101, as described further below. In one embodiment, the multiple collision prevention units 1709 include a stopping device 1709A and a stopping device 1709B. In one example, stopping device 1709A is attached to nozzle assembly 1707A and stopping device 170B is attached to nozzle assembly 1707B.

[0124] In one embodiment, the plurality of cylinders 1713 reduces swaying of the base assembly 1705 during operation of the second cleaning stage 105. In one embodiment, the plurality of cylinders 1713 may also be locked in place after the width of the second cleaning stage 105 is set. By locking the cylinders 1713, the base assembly 1705 cannot move to be positioned below the vehicle 101 when the base assembly 1705 is no longer in contact with the tires of the vehicle 101, as described further below.

[0125] In one embodiment, the plurality of cylinders 1713 includes cylinder 1713A and cylinder 1713B, where each cylinder 1713 is coupled to a corresponding one of the plurality of base assemblies 1705. For example, cylinder 1713B is attached to base assembly 1705B, while cylinder 1713A is attached to base assembly 1705. Each cylinder 1713 includes two ends, where one end of cylinder 1713 is attached to frame 1701 and the other end of cylinder 1713 is attached to base assembly 1705. For example, one end of cylinder 1713B is attached to frame rail 1701C, and the other end of cylinder 1713B is attached to base assembly 1705B.

[0126] In one embodiment, a plurality of intermediate stop circuit lines 1711 (e.g., air lines) supply air to a plurality of cylinders 1713. Supplying air to the cylinders 1713 unlocks the cylinders 1713, allowing them to return to their original positions once the vehicle 101 exits the second wash stage 105.

[0127] In one embodiment, the plurality of intermediate stop circuit lines 1711 include an intermediate stop circuit line 1711A and an intermediate stop circuit line 1711B. The intermediate stop circuit line 1711A is connected to the cylinder 1713A and supplies air to the cylinder 1713A to unlock or lock the cylinder 1713A. Similarly, the intermediate stop circuit line 1711B is connected to the cylinder 1713B and supplies air to the cylinder 1713B to unlock or lock the cylinder 1713B.

[0128] Operation of the First Embodiment of the Second Cleaning Stage 105 18A-18D illustrate operation of the second cleaning stage 105 to clean the side of the vehicle 101 according to one embodiment. FIG. 18A illustrates an adjustment operation during operation of the second cleaning stage 105. Generally, the second cleaning stage 105 has a variable width to take into account the contours of the side of the vehicle 101 while cleaning the side of the vehicle 101. During the initial adjustment operation, the width of the second cleaning stage 105 is adjusted according to the width of the vehicle 101.

[0129] As shown in Figure 18A, as the vehicle 101 approaches the second cleaning stage 105, the tires 1801 of the vehicle 101 contact the plurality of base assemblies 1705. As the conveyor advances the vehicle 101, causing the vehicle 101 to move forward, the base assemblies 1705 are pushed outward, away from the center of the second cleaning stage 105B, by contacting the tires 1801 and setting the width of the second cleaning stage 105, as shown in Figure 18B. Thus, the sides of the vehicle (e.g., the sides of the tires) physically contact the second cleaning stage 105 and set the width of the second cleaning stage 105 according to the width of the vehicle 101.

[0130] 18B illustrates the initial cleaning operation of the second cleaning stage 105 in one embodiment. Once the width of the second cleaning stage 105 is adjusted according to the width of the vehicle 101, the cylinder 1713, in one embodiment, is actuated by the controller 109 to lock the length of the cylinder 1713 in a predetermined position during the first cleaning stage. By locking the cylinder 1713, the width of the second cleaning stage 105 is locked in a predetermined position. The nozzle assembly 1707 can then begin cleaning the front of the side of the vehicle 101 (e.g., the side of the front fender). The nozzle assembly 1707 can clean the front of the side of the vehicle 101 using water output by the nozzle assembly 1707 or a combination of water and detergent (e.g., soap) output by the nozzle assembly 1707. When the nozzle assembly 1707 outputs only water, the second cleaning stage 105 relies on the detergent output by the chemical arch 401 of the first cleaning stage 103 to help clean the vehicle 101.

[0131] 18C illustrates an intermediate cleaning operation of the second cleaning stage 105 in one embodiment. As the vehicle 101 continues to move along the second cleaning stage 105, the nozzle assembly 1707 continues to clean the sides of the vehicle 101, such as the center of the side of the vehicle (e.g., the doors) and the rear of the side of the vehicle (e.g., the rear fender). As shown in FIG. 18C, at some point during the second cleaning stage 105, the base assembly 1705 is no longer in contact with the vehicle 101 because the length of the base assembly 1705 is not long enough to span the length of the wheelbase of the vehicle 101. Thus, the base assembly 1705 can only contact either the front tires or the rear tires, but cannot contact both the front and rear tires simultaneously due to the short length of the base assembly 1705.

[0132] 18C, the cylinder 1713 locks the width of the second cleaning stage 105, thereby maintaining the width of the second cleaning stage 105 even when the base assembly 1705 is no longer in contact with the tire 1801 of the vehicle 101. As previously mentioned, locking the cylinder 1713 prevents the base assembly 1705 from moving below the vehicle 101 during intermediate cleaning operations.

[0133] Although not shown, the cylinder 1713 includes numerous components, such as various solenoids and valves, that control the locking and unlocking of the cylinder 1713. As previously described, the intermediate stop circuit line 1711 supplies air to the cylinder 1713. When the vehicle 101 is not yet in contact with the base assembly 1705, the intermediate stop circuit line 1711 does not supply air to the cylinder 1713. When air is not supplied to the cylinder 1713, the cylinder 1713 can extend and retract. This causes the cylinder 1713 to be unlocked.

[0134] When the vehicle 101 contacts the base assembly 1705, the intermediate stop circuit line 1711 supplies air to the cylinder 1713. The air supplied to the cylinder 1713 allows the cylinder 1713 to further retract but does not allow the cylinder 1713 to extend, thereby locking the cylinder 1713 in place. Thus, the base assembly 1705 connected to the cylinder 1713 can move outward from the vehicle 101 during the second cleaning stage 105, but cannot move inward toward the vehicle 101 during the second cleaning stage. In other words, the cylinder 1713 is locked, thereby preventing the base assembly 1705 from moving inward.

[0135] 18D illustrates the reset operation of the second cleaning stage 105 in one embodiment. After the vehicle 101 exits the second cleaning stage 105, the width of the second cleaning stage 105 is reset to its initial position. In one embodiment, the width of the second cleaning stage 105 is reset by the unlocking cylinder 1713. By unlocking the cylinder 1713, the base assemblies 1705 can return to their initial positions. As described below with respect to FIG. 20 , the base assemblies 1705 can be moved to their initial positions using gravity, which moves the base assemblies 1705 and arms 1703 inward toward the center of the second cleaning stage 105.

[0136] To unlock the cylinders 1713, the intermediate stop circuit line 1711 stops the supply of air to the cylinders 1713. Once the cylinders 1713 are unlocked, the base assembly 1705 returns to their initial position using gravity and the weight of the base assembly 1705, as described above. In one embodiment, the intermediate stop circuit line 1711 stops the supply of air to the cylinders 1713 for a threshold time (e.g., 2 seconds) after the vehicle 101 exits the second wash stage 105, thereby returning the base assembly 1705 to their initial position. Alternatively, the intermediate stop circuit line 1711 does not supply air to the cylinders 1713 based on a signal received from a photosensor at the entrance of the car wash system 100, different from the optical sensor 301. The timing at which the optical sensor sends a signal is calculated based on the speed of the conveyor 107. Based on the speed of the conveyor 107 and the length of the car wash 100, the time it takes for the vehicle to exit the second wash stage 105 can be calculated.

[0137] After the second cleaning stage 105 is completed, the vehicle 101 may be dried by one or more fans or blowers (not shown). The fans generate airflow that dries the surfaces of the vehicle 101 that have been cleaned by the first cleaning stage 103 and the second cleaning stage 105.

[0138] Arm 1703 Generally, the arms 1703 connect the hanging base assembly 1705 to the upper end of the frame 1701. The arms 1703 may have different shapes in different embodiments. FIG. 19 shows a front view of the second cleaning stage 105 to illustrate one example of the shape of the multiple arms 1703. As shown in FIG. 19, in one embodiment, the arms 1703 each include at least one bend. By having at least one bend in each of the arms 1703, the likelihood of contact between the vehicle 101 and the arms 1703 is reduced compared to if the arms 1703 were straight (e.g., lacking any bends). If the arms were straight, there would be a higher likelihood of contact between the side mirrors of the vehicle 101 and the arms 1703. In one embodiment, the at least one bend in each arm 1703 is located at the end of the arm closest to the base assembly 1705.

[0139] The example of Figure 19 shows a "C" shaped arm including multiple bends (e.g., two bends) according to one embodiment. Each of the "C" shaped arms 1703A-1703D shown in Figure 19 includes an upper portion 1903, a central portion 1905, and a lower portion 1907. A first bend 1909 is formed between the upper portion 1903 and the central portion 1905, and a second bend 1911 is formed between the central portion 1905 and the lower portion 1907. For example, arm 1703A includes an upper portion 1903A, a central portion 1905A, and a lower portion 1907A, and a first bend 1909A is formed between the upper portion 1903A and the central portion 1905A, and a second bend 1911A is formed between the central portion 1905A and the lower portion 1907A. Arm 1703B includes an upper portion 1903B, a central portion 1905B, and a lower portion 1907B, with a first bent portion 1909B formed between upper portion 1903B and central portion 1905B, and a second bent portion 1911B formed between central portion 1905B and lower portion 1907B. Arm 1703C includes an upper portion 1903C, a central portion 1905C, and a lower portion 1907C, with a first bent portion 1909C formed between upper portion 1903C and central portion 1905C, and a second bent portion 1911C formed between central portion 1905C and lower portion 1907C. Arm 1703D includes an upper portion 1903D, a middle portion 1905D, and a lower portion 1907D, with a first bend 1909D formed between upper portion 1903D and middle portion 1905D, and a second bend 1911D formed between middle portion 1905D and lower portion 1907D.

[0140] In one embodiment, the upper and lower portions 1903, 1907 of the "C" shaped arms are symmetrical. That is, the upper and lower portions 1903, 1907 of the "C" shaped arms 1703 have the same length. Furthermore, the angle between the upper and lower portions 1903 and the middle portion 1905 of the "C" shaped arms 1703, in one embodiment, is the same as the angle between the lower portion 1907 and the middle portion 1905 of the "C" shaped arms 1703. By having the upper and lower portions with the same length and the same angle between the upper and middle portions, and between the lower and middle portions, the ability of the "C" shaped arms 1703 to return to their initial positions due to the weight and gravity of the arms 1703 after the vehicle 101 leaves the second cleaning stage 105 is improved, as will be further explained below with respect to FIGS. 20A and 20B .

[0141] FIG. 20A shows the orientation of the arm 1703 after the arm 1703 has been pushed outward from the center of the second cleaning stage 105 due to the vehicle 101 contacting the base assembly 1705. The arm 1703 shown in FIG. 20 may correspond to the right arm of the second cleaning stage 105. As shown in FIG. 20A, the center 1905 of the arm 1703 is vertical (e.g., perpendicular to the ground) when the width of the second cleaning stage 105 is adjusted relative to the vehicle 101. When the arm 1703 is oriented so that the center 1905 is in a vertical position, the center of gravity of the arm 1703 is located to the right of the hinge point 2001 of the arm 1703. In other words, the hinge point 2001 is offset from the center of gravity 2003 of the arm 1703. The hinge point 2001 is the portion of the arm 1703 that connects to the frame 1701.

[0142] Figure 20B shows the orientation of the arm 1703 in an initial reset position after the vehicle 101 exits the second cleaning stage 105. In Figure 20B, gravity causes the arm 1703 to rotate clockwise about the hinge point 2001 until the arm 1703 reaches the initial reset position. In one embodiment, in the initial reset position of the arm 1703, the center of gravity 2003 of the arm 1703 is aligned with the hinge point 2001 of the arm 1703.

[0143] In one embodiment, weights 2005 can be placed on the "C" shaped arms to adjust the center of gravity of the arms 1703, as shown in FIGS. 20C and 20D. To adjust the center of gravity of the arms 1703, weights 2005 may be placed on the middle portion 1905 of the arms 1703, as shown in FIG. 20C. Alternatively, weights 2005 may be placed on the upper portion 1903 of the arms 1703. By using weights 2005 to change the center of gravity of the arms 1703, the weights 2005 add more mass to the arms 1703, allowing the arms 1703 to more easily return to their initial reset position after the vehicle 101 exits the second washing stage 105, as compared to embodiments without weights 2005.

[0144] The above description regarding the center of gravity of the arm 1703 is also applicable to the arm located on the left side of the second cleaning stage 105. However, the arm 1703 located on the left side of the second cleaning stage 105 is oriented so that the center 1905 of the arm is in a vertical position, but the center of gravity of the arm 1703 is located on the left side of the hinge point 2001 of the arm 1703 instead of the right side, as shown in FIG.

[0145] FIG. 21 shows a front view of the second cleaning stage 105 to illustrate another shape of the multiple arms 1703 according to one embodiment. Compared to the embodiment shown in FIG. 19, in one embodiment, the arms 1703 shown in FIG. 21 each include one bend. By having a single bend in each of the arms 1703, the likelihood of contact between the vehicle 101 and the arms 1703 is reduced compared to if the arms 1703 were straight (e.g., lacking any bends) as in the embodiment shown in FIG. 19. If the arms were straight, there would be a higher likelihood of contact between the side mirrors of the vehicle 101 and the arms 1703. The at least one bend in each arm 1703 is located at the end of the arm closest to the base assembly 1705.

[0146] The example of FIG. 21 shows an "L" shaped arm including a single bend (e.g., one bend) according to one embodiment. Each of the "L" shaped arms 1703A-1703D shown in FIG. 21 includes an upper portion 2101 and a lower portion 2103. A bend 2105 is formed between the upper portion 2101 and the lower portion 2103. For example, arm 1703A includes an upper portion 2101A and a lower portion 2103A, and a bend 2105A is formed between the upper portion 2101A and the lower portion 2103A. Arm 1703B includes an upper portion 2101B and a lower portion 2103B, and a bend 2105B is formed between the upper portion 2101B and the lower portion 2103B. Arm 1703C includes an upper portion 2101C and a lower portion 2103C, and a bend 2105C is formed between the upper portion 2101C and the lower portion 2103C. The arm 1703D includes an upper portion 2101D and a lower portion 2103D, with a bent portion 2105D formed between the upper portion 2101D and the lower portion 2103D.

[0147] Figure 22A shows a side view of arms 1703C and 1703D located on the right side of second cleaning stage 105 according to one embodiment. Figure 22A does not show arms 1703A and 1703B located on the left side of second cleaning stage 105, but the description of Figure 22A is also applicable to arms 1703A and 1703B.

[0148] As shown in FIG. 22A , hinge points 2001 of arms 1703C and 1703D are attached to mounting plate 1701D of frame 1701. In one embodiment, hinge points 2001 are separated by a threshold distance “E.” Threshold distance “E” is 20.9 inches, according to one embodiment. If hinge points 2001 are separated by a distance less than threshold distance “E,” arms 1703 and base assembly 1705 will sway upon initial impact between tire 1801 and base assembly 1705. By separating hinge points 2001 of arms 1703 by threshold distance “E,” sway of arms 1703 and base assembly 1705 is reduced.

[0149] 22A also shows the motion path 2201 of the base assembly 1705 as it is repositioned according to the width of the vehicle 101. The motion path 2201 is not linear, such as in the horizontal direction. Rather, the motion path 2201 of the base assembly 1705 is arc-shaped (e.g., crescent-shaped), given that each arm 1703 is attached to the mounting plate 1701D by a single hinge point 2001. During movement in the motion path 2201, the nozzle of the water assembly 1707 remains substantially flat to ensure optimal cleaning efficiency.

[0150] 22B is a force diagram depicting forces applied to the base assembly 1705 to adjust the width of the second cleaning stage 105 according to one embodiment. A plan view of a portion of the base assembly 1705 is shown. Vector 2203 represents the direction and force applied by tire 1801 to the vehicle entry guides (described below) of the base assembly 1705. Vector 2211 represents a reaction force to the left in response to the force applied by tire 1801, and vector 2209 is a reaction force opposite to vector 2201. The sum of vectors 2203, 2209, and 2211 results in vector 2201, which represents the path of movement of the base assembly 1705.

[0151] The vehicle entry guide of the base assembly 1705 is set at an angle 2207 relative to the reference line 2205. In one embodiment, the angle is 45 degrees, although other angles may be used. When a 45 degree angle is used, the direction of arm rotation along the motion path 2201 is formed at a 90 degree angle with the vehicle entry guide 1705. Generally, as the angle of the vehicle entry guide increases, the amount of movement along the motion path 2201 increases, as does the force applied to the arm 1703.

[0152] Base Assembly 1705 23A and 23B show detailed views of the components of base assemblies 1705A and 1705B according to one embodiment. Base assembly 1705A, in one embodiment, includes base structure 2301A, vehicle ingress guide 2302A, impact portion 2303A, impact portion 2304A, bearing 2305A, and cylinder bracket 2305A. Similarly, base assembly 1705B, in one embodiment, includes base structure 2301B, vehicle ingress guide 2302B, impact portion 2303B, impact portion 2304B, bearing 2305B, and cylinder bracket 2305B.

[0153] Base structure 2301 serves as a frame for base assembly 1705 to support the components of base assembly 1705. Vehicle entry guides 2302, bearings 2305, cylinder brackets 2305, water assembly 1707, and impacts 2302A are all mounted to base structure 2301 in an embodiment. Base structure 2301 is rectangular in shape and may be made of a metal such as aluminum, although other shapes and materials may be used.

[0154] The impact portion 2303 is attached to the base structure 2301. The impact portion 2303 may be attached to the edge of the base structure 2301 using fasteners such as screws or nuts and bolts. The impact portion 2303 is configured to protect the base structure 2301 from damage while the tire 1801 of the vehicle 101 is in contact with the base assembly 1705. Because the impact portion 2303 is in contact with the tire, the impact portion 2303 must not interfere with the vehicle 101's travel through the second wash stage 105. Therefore, the impact portion 2303 is made of a material that is strong enough to protect the base structure 2301 while having low friction to allow the tire to slide smoothly along the impact portion 2303. In one embodiment, the impact portion 2303 is made of a plastic such as polyethylene, although other materials may be used.

[0155] The vehicle entry guide 2302 guides the vehicle 101 into the second cleaning stage 105. As described above, the vehicle entry guide 2302 is inclined, such as at a 45 degree angle, relative to the reference line 2205. The vehicle entry guide 2302 impacts the tires 1801 of the vehicle 101 to adjust the width of the second cleaning stage 105. The vehicle entry guide 2302 is triangular in shape and may be made of a metal such as aluminum, but may also be other shapes or materials.

[0156] The impact portion 2304 is attached to the vehicle entry guide 2302. The impact portion 2304 may be attached to the edge of the vehicle entry guide 2302 using fasteners such as screws or nuts and bolts. The impact portion 2304 is configured to protect the vehicle entry guide 2302 from damage while the tire 1801 of the vehicle 101 is in contact with the vehicle entry guide 2302. Because the impact portion 2304 is in contact with the tire, the impact portion 2304 must not interfere with the vehicle 101's movement through the second cleaning stage 105. For this reason, the impact portion 2304 is constructed of a material that has low friction to allow the tire to slide smoothly along the impact portion 2304, yet is strong enough to protect the vehicle entry guide 2302. In one embodiment, the impact portion 2304 is made of a plastic such as polyethylene, although other materials may be used.

[0157] In one embodiment, bearings 2305 are hinge points for base assembly 1705. Each bearing 2305 is configured to be attached to the end of a corresponding one of arms 1703, as shown in FIG. 23C . Bearings 2305 allow base assembly 1705 to hang from arms 1703, thereby suspending base assembly 1705 above the ground. Bearings 2305 also allow base assembly 1705 to rotate as base assembly 1705 moves along motion path 2201. Bearings 2305 may be stainless steel bearings, although other materials may be used for bearings in other embodiments.

[0158] 23A and 23B, in one embodiment, bearings 2305 are attached to the top surface of base structure 2301. Each bearing 2305 may be attached to the top surface of base structure 2301 using fasteners such as screws or nuts and bolts. As shown in FIG. 23, one pair of bearings is attached to one end of base structure 2301 (e.g., at the corners) and another pair of bearings is attached to the other end of base structure 2301.

[0159] 24A and 24B show plan views of base assembly 1705A and base assembly 1705B according to one embodiment. Specifically, FIGS. 24A and 24B show hinge points 2401A and 2403A of base assembly 1705A and hinge points 2401B and 2403B of base assembly 1705B, respectively. In one embodiment, hinge point 2401 represents the location of a pair of bearings 2305 located at the upper end of base structure 2301, and hinge point 2403 represents the location of a pair of bearings 2305 located at the lower end of base structure 2301.

[0160] 24A and 24B, in one embodiment, hinge points 2401 and 2403 are misaligned. That is, hinge points 2401 and 2403 are misaligned in both the horizontal and vertical directions. The misalignment causes hinge points 2401 and 2403 to be offset from one another in both the horizontal and vertical directions.

[0161] In one embodiment, hinge points 2401 and 2403 are angled relative to the edge of the base assembly 1705. For example, in one embodiment, hinge points 2401A and 2403A are angled at a 45 degree angle relative to edge 2405A, although other angles may be used. Similarly, in one embodiment, hinge points 2401B and 2403B are angled at a 45 degree angle relative to edge 2405B. Slanting hinge points 2401 and 2403 cushions the vehicle 101 during ingress and reduces tilt of the base assembly 1705 during width adjustment of the second washing stage 105.

[0162] In one embodiment, the distance 2407 between the center points of the hinge points 2401 and 2403 is a threshold distance, such as 20.9 inches. If the distance between the center points of the hinge points 2401 and 2403 is less than the threshold distance, the base assembly 1705 will sway upon impact with the tire 1801 of the vehicle 101. By separating the hinge points 2401 and 2403 by the threshold distance, sway upon impact between the base assembly 1705 and the tire 1801 is reduced.

[0163] 23A and 23B, in one embodiment, the cylinder bracket 2305 is attached to the top surface of the base structure 2301. The cylinder bracket 2305 can be attached to the top surface of the base structure 2301 using fasteners such as screws or nuts and bolts. The cylinder bracket 2305 can be disposed between a pair of bearings 2305, as shown in FIG. 23. For example, the cylinder bracket 2305 is located between a pair of bearings at one end of the base structure 2301 and a pair of bearings 2305 at the other end of the base structure 2301. In one embodiment, the cylinder bracket 2305 is configured to attach one end of the cylinder 1713 to the top surface of the base structure 2301, as shown in FIG. 23C.

[0164] FIG. 25 shows a top view of the second cleaning stage 105 to illustrate the angles of the base assembly 1705 and the cylinders 1713 according to one embodiment. As shown in FIG. 25, the cylinders 1713A form an angle 2502A with respect to datum 2501A, and the cylinders 1713B form an angle 2502B with respect to datum 2501B. Datums 2501A and 2501B are in the direction of entry of the vehicle 101. In one embodiment, the angles formed between the cylinders 1713 and their respective datums 2501 are 45 degrees. Using a 45-degree angle reduces the impact of the vehicle entering the base assembly 1705. Furthermore, as previously mentioned, the angles 2503 (e.g., 2503A and 2503B) formed between the datum line 2205 and the base assembly 1705 are also 45 degrees. Therefore, according to one embodiment, the sum of the angles between the cylinders 1703 and the base assembly 1715 is 90 degrees. However, other embodiments may have different sums of angles.

[0165] Nozzle Assembly 1707 26A and 26B show detailed views of a nozzle assembly 1707 included in the second cleaning stage 105 according to one embodiment. The nozzle assembly 1707 is an example of a cleaning unit of the second cleaning stage 105. As previously mentioned, according to one embodiment, the nozzle assembly 1707 includes a nozzle assembly 1707A configured to clean the driver's side of the vehicle 101 and a nozzle assembly 1707B configured to clean the passenger's side of the vehicle 101.

[0166] As shown in Figure 26A, nozzle assembly 1707A includes a support structure 2605A, a water manifold 2601A, a plurality of water nozzles 2602A, 2603A, and a plurality of fasteners 2604A according to one embodiment. Similarly, as shown in Figure 26B, nozzle assembly 1707B includes a post structure 2605B, a water manifold 2601B, a plurality of water nozzles 2602B, 2603B, and a plurality of fasteners 2604B according to one embodiment. As shown in Figures 26A and 26B, in one embodiment, the passenger side and driver side nozzle assemblies include the same types of components. However, in other embodiments, the driver side nozzle assembly and the passenger side nozzle assemblies may include different components.

[0167] In one embodiment, the water manifolds 2601 are chambers that supply water used to wash the sides of the vehicle 101. For example, water manifold 2601A contains water to wash the driver's side of the vehicle 101, and water manifold 2601B contains water to wash the passenger's side of the vehicle 101. Each water manifold 2601 may be a pipe that includes an inlet (e.g., 2606A, 2606B) connected to a water source that supplies water to the water manifold 2601 for washing the vehicle 101. Each water manifold 2601 may be made of stainless steel and may have, for example, a diameter of 1.1 inches and a length of 69 inches. However, other dimensions and materials may be used for the water manifolds 2601.

[0168] In one embodiment, water manifold 2601 includes outlet ports each connected to a corresponding one of a plurality of water nozzles 2602 and 2603. As shown in Figure 26, water nozzles 2602 and 2603 are disposed along the length of water manifold 2601. Water nozzles 2602 and 2603 may be spaced apart an equal distance from one another in one embodiment.

[0169] Generally, the water nozzles 2602 and 2603 spray water contained within the water manifold 2601 onto the side of the vehicle 101 to wash the vehicle 101. To improve washing performance, the water nozzles 2602 and 2603 are maintained within a predetermined distance range of the side of the vehicle 101. The water nozzles 2601 and 2603 can be kept within the predetermined distance range of the side of the vehicle 101 by having the second washing stage 105 adjust its width according to the width of the vehicle 101, as described above. In one embodiment, the distance between the side of the vehicle 101 and the tips (e.g., ends) of the water nozzles 2602 and 2603 is within a range of 10 inches to 15 inches. However, other distance ranges may be used in other examples.

[0170] In one embodiment, water nozzle 2602 and water nozzle 2603 are configured to wash different portions of the side of vehicle 101. For example, water nozzle 2603 is configured to wash side mirrors 2604 of vehicle 101, and water nozzle 2602 is configured to wash the remaining sides of vehicle 101, such as the front bumper, front fenders, doors, rear fenders, and the sides of the rear bumper.

[0171] Given that the side mirror 2604 protrudes farther from the vehicle 101 than the side of the vehicle, the length of the water nozzle 2603 is different from the length of the water nozzle 2602. In one embodiment, the length of the water nozzle 2603 used to wash the side mirror 2604 is shorter than the length of the water nozzle 2602 to provide a gap between the water nozzle 2602 and the side mirror 2604. Otherwise, the water nozzle 2603 may collide with the side mirror 2604 and cause damage to the vehicle 101 and the water nozzle 2603.

[0172] In one embodiment, the water nozzle 2603 is configured to spray water at an angle 2606 relative to a reference line 2605 to enhance cleaning performance of the side mirror 2604. By spraying water at the angle 2606, the water nozzle 2603 can clean the inside portion of the side mirror 2604. In one embodiment, the angle 2606 of the water nozzle 2603 used to clean the side mirror 2604 is 45 degrees. However, other angles may be used. Generally, a larger angle 2606 will increase the water spray distance, and a smaller angle 2606 will decrease cleaning performance of the side mirror 2604.

[0173] In one embodiment, the water nozzles 2602 and 2603 spray water such that the water temperature on the surface of the vehicle 101 is at a threshold temperature for improved cleaning performance. For example, the temperature of the water sprayed by the nozzles 2602 and 2603 as measured at the surface of the vehicle 101 is between 110 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit (F). Note that the temperature of the water at the outlet of the nozzles 2602 and 2603 is higher than the temperature of the water at the surface of the vehicle 101 because the water cools during the period between leaving the nozzles and contacting the surface of the vehicle 101. In other embodiments, the temperature of the water sprayed by the nozzles 2602 and 2603 as measured at the surface of the vehicle 101 is at least 140°F. The temperature of the water on the surface of the vehicle 101 is based on various factors, such as the temperature of the water before being sprayed by the water nozzles 2602 and 2603, the nozzle diameter, and the angle at which the water is sprayed (i.e., the jet spray angle).

[0174] In one embodiment, support structure 2605 is a structure that supports water manifold 2601. For example, support structure 2605A supports water manifold 2601A, and support structure 2605B supports water manifold 2601B. In one embodiment, support structure 2605 can be mounted to the ground to prevent support structure 2605 from falling. In one embodiment, support structure 2605 can be rectangular in shape as shown in FIGS. 26A and 26B and can be made of a metal such as aluminum. However, other shapes and materials can be used for the support structure.

[0175] A plurality of fasteners 2607 fasten the water manifold 2601 to the support structure 2605. For example, fastener 2607A fastens water manifold 2601A to support structure 2605A, and fastener 2607B fastens water manifold 2601B to support structure 2605A. As shown in Figure 26, the water manifold 2601 may be fastened to the support structure 2605 at multiple locations along the length of the water manifold 2601 to ensure that the water manifold 2601 is properly secured.

[0176] In one embodiment, each fastener 2607 is a clamp-type fastener that wraps around manifold 2601. Fastener 2607 can have a hole in the center of fastener 2607, with water manifold 2601 placed within the hole. Fastener 2607 can then be fastened to support structure 2605 using screws and / or other types of fasteners, such as nuts and bolts, thereby securing water manifold 2601 to support structure 2605.

[0177] Collision Prevention Unit 1709 27A shows a detailed view of an embodiment of a collision prevention unit 1709. In one embodiment, the collision prevention unit 1709 includes a frame 2701 and a contact wheel 2704. The collision prevention unit 1709 may have different components in other embodiments.

[0178] The frame 2701 has a mounting plate 2703C which, in one embodiment, is used to mount the collision prevention unit 1109 to the support structure 2605 of the nozzle assembly 1707, as shown in FIG.

[0179] Referring back to Figure 27A, frame 2701 also includes extenders 2703A and 2703B. Extenders 2703A and 2703B have first ends connected to mounting plate 2703C. Second ends of extenders 2703 are spaced apart, forming a recess between the second ends of extenders 2703. As shown in Figure 27A, in one embodiment, the extenders have an "L" shape.

[0180] The contact wheel 2704 is configured to contact the side of the vehicle 101 to prevent damage to the water nozzle 2602, as described further below. The contact wheel 2704 is configured to roll across the surface of the vehicle 101 when the contact wheel 2704 contacts the side of the vehicle. To reduce damage to the surface of the vehicle 101 due to contact, and as the contact wheel 2704 rolls across the side of the vehicle, the contact wheel 2704 is made of a resilient material, such as rubber, for example. However, other materials may be used. As described further below, the contact wheel 2704 is configured to prevent damage to the water nozzle 2602 due to contact with the side of the vehicle 101.

[0181] 27A, the contact wheel 2704 is disposed in a recess formed between the other ends of the extenders 2703. The contact wheel 2704 may be secured to the second extender 2703 using a pin 2705 disposed between the second ends of the extenders 2703. The contact wheel 2704 rotates about the pin 2705.

[0182] Figures 27B and 27C illustrate the operation of the collision prevention unit 1709 in one embodiment. As previously described, the collision prevention unit 1709 prevents the water nozzles 2602 from contacting the sides of the vehicle 101. Figure 27B illustrates the initial cleaning operation of the second cleaning stage 105. As previously described, during the initial cleaning operation, the base assembly 1705 is in contact with the tire 1801 of the vehicle. Because the base assembly 1705 is in contact with the tire, the base assembly 1705 cannot move below the vehicle 101. Therefore, the water nozzles 2602 cannot contact the sides of the vehicle 101.

[0183] 27C illustrates the cleaning operation of the second cleaning stage 105 with the base assembly 1705 no longer in contact with the tire 1801. Typically, the cylinder 1713 locks, thereby preventing the base assembly 1705 from moving inward toward the center of the second cleaning stage 105. However, in the example shown in FIG. 27C, the cylinder 1713 has a malfunction that causes the locking operation to fail, resulting in the base assembly 1705 moving underneath the vehicle 101.

[0184] 27C, the collision prevention unit 1709 contacts the side of the vehicle 101 when the base assembly 1705 is below the vehicle 101, thereby preventing the base assembly 1705 from moving further inward toward the center of the second cleaning stage 105. If the base assembly 1705 were to move further toward the center of the second cleaning stage 105, the water nozzle 2602 would contact the side of the vehicle 101, thereby damaging the vehicle 101 and the water nozzle 2602. However, given that the collision prevention unit 1709 is longer than the water nozzle 2602 and contacts the side of the vehicle 101 before the water nozzle 2602, the distance 2705 between the end of the nozzle 2602 and the side of the vehicle 101 is maintained.

[0185] Overview of a second embodiment of the second cleaning stage 105 28, a perspective view of the second washing stage 105 of the car wash system 100 according to the second embodiment is shown. The second embodiment of the second washing stage 105 is similar to the first embodiment of the second washing stage 105 described with reference to FIG. 17. In the second embodiment of the second washing stage 105, the second washing stage 105 includes a frame 1701, a plurality of arms 1703, a plurality of nozzle assemblies 1707, an intermediate stop circuit line 1711, and a cylinder 1713, similar to the first embodiment of the second washing stage 105 described above. Therefore, a description of common components between the first and second embodiments of the second washing stage 105 will be omitted.

[0186] The second embodiment of the second cleaning stage 105 includes a base assembly 2801. In one embodiment, the base assembly 2801 includes a driver's side base assembly 2801A located on the left side of the second cleaning stage 105 and a passenger's side base assembly 2801B located on the right side of the second cleaning stage 105. Like the base assembly 1705 of FIG. 17, the base assembly 2801 of FIG. 27 according to the second embodiment adjusts the width of the second cleaning stage 105. However, the base assembly 2801 of FIG. 27 has a longer length than the base assembly 1705 of the first embodiment of the second cleaning stage 105 of FIG. 17. For example, the length of the base assembly 2801 according to the second embodiment is 163 inches, while the length of the base assembly 1705 according to the first embodiment is 79 inches. Thus, the length of the base assembly 2801 is approximately double the length of the base assembly 1705.

[0187] The longer length of the base assembly 2801 allows the base assembly 2801 to remain in contact with the tire 1801 of the vehicle 101 for the entire duration of the second cleaning stage 105. Thus, in one embodiment, the second embodiment of the second cleaning stage 105 lacks the collision prevention unit 1709, as the base assembly 2801 prevents the water nozzles of the water assembly 2801 from colliding with the side of the vehicle 101 during the duration of the second cleaning stage 105. However, the second embodiment of the second cleaning stage may further include the collision prevention unit 1709 in other embodiments.

[0188] Additionally, although the second embodiment of the second cleaning stage 105 includes a cylinder 1713, the cylinder 1713 may lack a locking function. The cylinder 1713 may be used to damp vibrations of the vehicle 101 upon impact with the base assembly 2801. However, the cylinder 1713 lacks a locking function because there is no need to lock the width of the second cleaning stage 105, as the base assembly 2801 is in contact with the tire 1801 of the vehicle 101 during the second cleaning stage 105, thereby providing such a locking function instead.

[0189] Operation of the Second Embodiment of the Second Cleaning Stage 105 29A-29C illustrate operation of a second embodiment of the second cleaning stage 105 to clean the side of a vehicle 101. FIG. 29A illustrates an adjustment operation during operation of the second cleaning stage 105. During the adjustment operation, in one embodiment, the width of the second cleaning stage 105 is adjusted according to the width of the vehicle 101. As shown in FIG. 29A, as the vehicle 101 approaches the second cleaning stage 105, the front tires 1801 of the vehicle 101 contact a plurality of base assemblies 2801. As the conveyor moves the vehicle 101 forward, the base assemblies 2801 are pushed outward from the center of the second cleaning stage 105B by contacting the front tires 1801, as shown in FIG. 29A, thereby setting the width of the second cleaning stage 105.

[0190] 29B illustrates the cleaning operation of the second cleaning stage 105 in one embodiment. Once the width of the second cleaning stage 105 has been adjusted according to the width of the vehicle 101, the nozzle assembly 1707 can begin cleaning the sides of the vehicle 101. The nozzle assembly 1707 can clean the front (front fender), middle (e.g., door), and rear (e.g., rear fender) of the sides of the vehicle 101 using water output by the nozzle assembly 1707 or a combination of water and chemicals (e.g., soap) output by the nozzle assembly 1707. When the nozzle assembly 1707 outputs only water, the second cleaning stage 105 relies on chemical output by the chemical arch of the first cleaning stage 103 to help clean the vehicle 101.

[0191] 29B, the base assembly 2801 simultaneously contacts both the front tire 1801A and the rear tire 1801B while cleaning the center of the vehicle 101. During the cleaning operation of the second embodiment of the second cleaning stage 105, the base assembly 2801B is in contact with at least one of the front tire 1801A or the rear tire 1801B due to the length of the base assembly 2801B. Therefore, the width of the second cleaning stage 105 is maintained during operation of the second cleaning stage 105. Therefore, the second embodiment of the second cleaning stage 105 does not require the locking function of the cylinder 1713 to maintain the adjusted width of the second cleaning stage 105 because the base assembly 2801 is always in contact with at least one or both of the front tire 1801A or the rear tire 1801B. In contrast, the first embodiment of the base assembly 1705 does not contact any of the vehicle tires 1801 during at least a portion of the second cleaning operation and therefore requires the locking function of the cylinder 1713 to maintain the width of the second cleaning stage 105. Thus, the operation of the cylinder 1713 is similar to the first embodiment of the second cleaning stage 105 described above, except that the cylinder 1713 does not need to be locked.

[0192] 29C illustrates a reset operation of a second embodiment of the second cleaning stage 105. After the vehicle 101 exits the second cleaning stage 105, the width of the second cleaning stage 105 is reset to its initial position. In one embodiment, the width of the second cleaning stage 105 is reset using gravity and the weight of the base assembly 2801 and the arm 1703. In one embodiment, gravity returns the base assembly 2801 to their initial position. After the second cleaning stage 105 is completed, the vehicle 101 may be dried by one or more fans or blowers (not shown). The fans generate air that dries the surfaces of the vehicle 101 that have been cleaned by the first cleaning stage 101 and the second cleaning stage 105.

[0193] Base Assembly 2801 30A and 30B show detailed views of the components of base assemblies 2801A and 2801B, respectively, according to one embodiment. Base assembly 2801A, in one embodiment, includes base structure 30001A, vehicle ingress guide 3002A, impact portion 3003A, impact portion 3004A, bearing 3005A, and cylinder bracket 3005A. Similarly, base assembly 2801B, in one embodiment, includes base structure 3001B, vehicle ingress guide 3002B, impact portion 3003B, impact portion 3004B, bearing 3005B, and cylinder bracket 3005B.

[0194] The functions performed by base structure 3001, vehicle entry guide 3002, impact portion 3003, impact portion 3004, bearing 3005, and cylinder bracket 3005 are similar to the functions performed by base structure 2301, vehicle entry guide 2302, impact portion 2303A, impact portion 2304, bearing 2305, and cylinder bracket 2305 described above. Accordingly, a detailed description of the components of base assemblies 2801A and 2801B will be omitted, as the detailed description of the components of base assemblies 1705A and 1705B is applicable to the components of base assemblies 2801A and 2801B.

[0195] Due to the increased length of base assemblies 2801A and 2801B compared to base assemblies 1705A and 1705B, bearings 3005 are not located at the ends of base structure 3001 as in the first embodiment of base assembly 1705. Rather, bearings 3005 are located near the center of base structure 2301, as shown in FIG.

[0196] 31A and 31B show plan views of base assembly 2801A and base assembly 2801B, respectively, according to one embodiment. Specifically, FIGS. 31A and 31B show hinge points 3101A and 3103A of base assembly 2801A and hinge points 3101B and 3103B of base assembly 2801B, respectively. Hinge point 3101 represents the upper pair of bearings 3005, and hinge point 3103 represents the lower pair of bearings 3005, as positioned in one embodiment. Due to the long length of base assembly 2801, in one embodiment, each base assembly 2801 includes two or more hinge points 3103. Having at least two hinge points 3103 prevents base assembly 2801 from sagging.

[0197] As shown in Figures 31A and 31B, in one embodiment, hinge points 3101 and 3103 are misaligned. That is, hinge points 3101 and 3103 are misaligned in both the horizontal and vertical directions. Due to the misalignment, hinge points 3101 and 3103 are offset from one another in both the horizontal and vertical directions.

[0198] In one embodiment, hinge points 3101 and 3103 are angled relative to an edge of base assembly 3105. For example, in one embodiment, hinge points 3101A and 3103A are angled at a 45 degree angle relative to edge 3105A, although other angles may be used. Similarly, in one embodiment, hinge points 3101B and 3103B are angled at a 45 degree angle relative to edge 3105B. Slanting hinge points 3101 and 3103 cushions the vehicle 101 during ingress and reduces tilt of base assembly 2801. In one embodiment, distance 3102 (e.g., 3102A and 3102B) between the center points of hinge points 3101 and 3103 is a threshold distance such as at least 20.9 inches. However, other distances may be used. If the distance between the centers of the hinge points 3101 and 3103 is less than the threshold distance, the base assembly 2801 will sway upon impact with the tire 1801 of the vehicle 101. By separating the hinge points 3101 and 3103 by the threshold distance, sway upon impact between the base assembly 2801 and the tire 1801 is reduced.

[0199] Multi-stage brushless car wash system 32 is a high-level block diagram of another embodiment of a multi-stage brushless car wash system 3200 (hereinafter "car wash system 3200"). The car wash system 3200 is similar to the car wash system 100 described above with respect to FIG. 1. The car wash system 3200 washes the exterior of the vehicle 101 in multiple separate stages using a first wash stage 103 and a second wash stage 105, as described above. Accordingly, similar features described above with respect to the car wash system 3200 that are also included in the car wash system 100 have been omitted for ease of explanation.

[0200] In contrast to the car wash system 100, the car wash system 3200, in one embodiment, further includes an electric separation system stage 102 (hereinafter "ESS stage" 102) and a power supply system 113 that supplies power to the ESS stage 102, the first washing stage 103, and the second washing stage 105. The ESS stage 102 is positioned before the first washing stage 103, as shown in FIG. 32. In one embodiment, the ESS stage 102 uses the supplied power from the power supply system 113 to generate an electric potential on the surface of the vehicle 101. The electric potential generated on the surface of the vehicle 101 helps to break down a road film (e.g., a colloidal suspension) on the surface of the vehicle 101 before the first washing stage 103 and the second washing stage 105. By introducing an electric potential to the surface of the vehicle 101, an electrophoretic cleaning process is used to destabilize the road film and neutralize the surface charge of the vehicle 101, thereby removing and washing the road film from the surface of the vehicle 101 without the use of brushes during the first cleaning stage 103 and the second cleaning stage 105.

[0201] 33A and 33B show a method flow diagram illustrating the independently performed steps of the ESS stage 102, the first washing stage 103, and the second washing stage 105 of the car wash system 3200 for washing a vehicle 101 according to a second embodiment. The car wash system 3200 receives 3301 the vehicle 101 for washing. In one embodiment, the vehicle 101 is received when the vehicle 101 is driven onto a conveyor 107 included in the car wash system 3200. The conveyor 107 transports the vehicle 101 at a predetermined speed along the car wash system 3200 such that the vehicle 101 first passes through the ESS stage 102, then through the first washing stage 103, and then through the second washing stage 105 to clean the exterior surface of the vehicle 101. In one embodiment, the conveyor 107 transports the vehicles 101 through the car wash system 3200 at a speed of 200-380 mm / s (7.8-14.9 in / s), resulting in approximately 120-180 vehicles being washed per hour. The conveyor 107 may transport the vehicles 101 at other speeds in different examples.

[0202] The ESS stage 102 generates (3303) an electric potential on the surface of the vehicle 101. As previously described, the electric potential generated on the surface of the vehicle 101 aids in the breakdown of the road film on the surface of the vehicle 101 prior to the first cleaning stage 103 and the second cleaning stage 105. In one embodiment, the electric potential generated by the ESS stage 102 is greater than the zeta potential of the road film, thereby aiding in the removal of the road film from the surface of the vehicle. The zeta potential of the road film is the electric potential of the slip surface of the road film, which is the interface that separates the moving portion of the road film from the portion of the road film that remains attached to the surface of the vehicle 101.

[0203] Prior to generating the potentials, the ESS stage 102 determines 3305 a contour shape of the vehicle 101 that describes various elevation points of the vehicle 101 along the length of the vehicle 101, according to one embodiment. The elevation points of the vehicle 101 included in the contour shape collectively describe the vertical shape of the front, top, and rear surfaces of the vehicle 101.

[0204] In one embodiment, the ESS stage 102 then generates 3303 an electrical potential by applying 3306 one or more charged chemical solutions to the surface of the vehicle 101 and a second voltage to the vehicle 101. As described further below, the chemical solutions applied to the surface of the vehicle are charged (e.g., positively charged) using a first voltage (e.g., 12 volts), and a second voltage (e.g., 0 volts) is also applied to the surface of the vehicle 101 to generate an electrical potential on the surface of the vehicle 101 that is greater than the zeta potential of the road film.

[0205] After the road film is destabilized by the ESS stage 102, the car wash system 3200 uses the first washing stage 103 to wash (3307) the upper surface of the vehicle 101, such as the front, top, and rear of the vehicle 101. The front of the vehicle 101 includes the front bumper, the top of the vehicle 101 includes the hood, front windshield, roof, rear windshield, truck bed, and top of the rear deck of the vehicle 101, and the rear of the vehicle 101 includes the rear of the rear deck and the rear bumper.

[0206] As previously mentioned, the first cleaning stage 103 is brushless, i.e., it includes a cleaning unit (e.g., a nozzle) that cleans the top surface of the vehicle 101 without using brushes. The first cleaning stage 103 does not clean the sides of the vehicle 101, as the second cleaning stage 105 does, as previously mentioned.

[0207] The first cleaning stage 103 activates the cleaning unit to begin cleaning the upper surface of the vehicle 101 using charged water to create an electric potential on the upper surface of the vehicle 101 (3309). The first cleaning stage 103 washes away the charged chemicals applied to the upper surface of the vehicle 100 during the ESS stage 102. Although the road film has already been destabilized by the ESS stage 102 in step 3306, creating an electric potential on the upper surface of the vehicle 101 and using such charged water for cleaning during the first cleaning stage 103 further aids in removing any remaining road film on the upper surface of the vehicle 101 using water without the need for brushes. As the vehicle 101 moves along the first cleaning stage 103 by the conveyor 107, the first cleaning stage 101 adjusts (3311) the height of the cleaning unit according to the vertical profile of the vehicle 101 as the upper surface of the vehicle 101 is cleaned. Thus, the washing unit follows the contours of the vehicle 101 to improve the washing performance of the first washing stage 103 as the washing unit remains within a certain proximity (e.g., within a certain distance) to the upper surface of the vehicle.

[0208] As described above, adjusting the height of the washing units of the first washing stage 103 allows the washing units to maintain a predetermined distance (e.g., a certain proximity) from the upper surface of the vehicle 101 to better clean the vehicle 101. By maintaining a predetermined distance between the washing units and the upper surface of the vehicle 101, the first washing stage 103 can remove more road film, dirt, and / or grime from the upper surface of the vehicle 101 while reducing the amount of water used during the washing process compared to conventional brushless tunnel car wash systems. Additionally, because the first washing stage 103 is brushless, damage to the paint of the vehicle 101 is at least reduced.

[0209] After the first cleaning stage 103 completes cleaning the top surface of the vehicle 101, the vehicle 101 exits the first cleaning stage 103 and the conveyor 107 transports the vehicle 101 to the second cleaning stage 105. As previously mentioned, the second cleaning stage 105 cleans (3313) the sides of the vehicle 101 independently of the first cleaning stage 103 after the first cleaning stage 103 is complete. Examples of vehicle sides include the front and rear fenders, doors, side mirrors, driver and / or passenger windows, wheels, and the sides of the front and rear bumpers.

[0210] In one embodiment, to wash the sides of the vehicle 101 during the second washing stage 105, the width of the second washing stage 213 is adjusted (3315) based on the width of the vehicle 101. By adjusting the width of the second washing stage 105, the washing units of the second washing stage 105 can maintain a predetermined distance range from the sides of the vehicle 101 to better wash the sides of the vehicle 101. Thus, the washing units of the second washing stage 105 can take into account the contours of the sides of the vehicle 101. By maintaining a predetermined distance range between the washing units and the sides of the vehicle 101, the second washing stage 105 can remove more dirt, grime, and / or road film from the sides of the vehicle 101 while reducing the amount of water used during the washing process compared to conventional brushless tunnel car wash systems.

[0211] While the width of the second cleaning stage 213 is adjusted, the cleaning units of the second cleaning stage 105 are activated 3317 to clean the sides of the vehicle 101. In one embodiment, the cleaning units of the second cleaning stage 203 clean the sides of the vehicle 101 with charged water to create an electrical potential on the sides of the vehicle while the second cleaning stage 213 is at the adjusted width. The second cleaning stage 105 washes away the charged chemicals applied to the sides of the vehicle 100 during the ESS stage 102. Although the road film was already destabilized by the ESS stage 102, creating an electrical potential on the sides of the vehicle 101 during the second cleaning stage 105 further aids in removing the road film on the sides of the vehicle 101 using water without the need for brushes.

[0212] First embodiment of ESS stage 102 34 shows a plan view of the ESS stage 102 according to the first embodiment. The first embodiment of the ESS stage 102 includes an optical sensor 301, a plurality of chemical arches 3401, and a plurality of reference voltage devices 3403. The conveyor 107 transports the vehicle 101 through the ESS stage 102 such that the vehicle 101 moves past the optical sensor 301, the plurality of chemical arches 3401, and the plurality of reference voltage devices 3403. In contrast to the car wash system 100, which includes the chemical arch 401 and the optical sensor 301 as part of the first washing stage 103, the ESS 102 includes the plurality of chemical arches 3401 and the optical sensor 301 rather than the first washing stage 103.

[0213] In a first embodiment, the optical sensor 301 is used in conjunction with the controller 109 to identify the profile of the vehicle 101. As previously described, the profile of the vehicle 101 includes a plurality of height points of the vehicle 101 measured along the length of the vehicle 101. Each height point represents the height of a portion of the vehicle 101. The height points included in the profile of the vehicle 101 are arranged in a sequence as seen by the optical sensor 301 to accurately describe the shape of the front, top, and rear of the vehicle 101.

[0214] In a first embodiment, the ESS stage 102 includes multiple chemical arches 3401A, 3401B, and 3401C, each configured to apply a different chemical solution to the surface of the vehicle 101. In the first embodiment, the chemical arch 3401A applies an alkaline-based solution to the vehicle 101, the chemical arch 3401B applies an acid-based solution to the surface of the vehicle 101, and the third chemical arch 3401C applies a surfactant and / or conditioning polymer to the surface of the vehicle 101. Thus, the ESS stage 102 uses a three-stage chemical solution process. In other embodiments, the ESS 101 may include two chemical arches 3401A and 3401B that apply an alkaline-based solution and an acid-based solution with surfactants and / or conditioning polymers added to the alkaline compound solution and / or acid solution, respectively. By combining surfactants and / or conditioning polymers with alkaline and acidic solutions, in ESS stage 102, the chemical application process is reduced from a three-stage process to a two-stage process.

[0215] In one embodiment, each, some, or all of the chemical solution applied to the surface of the vehicle 101 by the chemical arch 3401 is electrically charged. The ESS stage 102 charges the chemical solution by applying a first voltage generated by the power supply system 113 to the chemical solution. In one embodiment, the first voltage is 12 volts direct current (VDC), although other voltages may be used in other embodiments. For example, in other embodiments, 24 VDC may be applied to charge the chemical solution. In other embodiments, an alternating current (AC) voltage may be used rather than a DC voltage. For example, 12 VAC may be used as the first voltage.

[0216] As shown in FIG. 34, the first embodiment of the ESS stage 102 also includes multiple reference voltage devices 3403A-3403E. In one embodiment, each of the multiple reference voltage devices 3403A and 3403E are spaced apart by a threshold distance. In one embodiment, the threshold distance is in the range of 24 inches to 72 inches. While only five reference voltage devices 3403 are shown, the first embodiment of the ESS stage 102 may include any number of reference voltage devices 3403, extending to the first cleaning stage 103 and the second cleaning stage 105 in addition to the first embodiment ESS stage 102.

[0217] In a first embodiment, the plurality of reference voltage devices 3403A-3403E apply a second voltage to the vehicle 101 (e.g., 0 volts), which causes the chemical arch 3401 to also apply a charged chemical solution of a first voltage to the surface of the vehicle 101, thereby creating a potential on the surface of the vehicle 101. To aid in removing road film using water without the need for a brush, the potential created on the surface of the vehicle 101 due to the application of the charged chemical (having the first voltage) and the applied second voltage has a magnitude greater than the zeta potential of the road film. Note that in other embodiments, any second voltage other than 0 volts may be used, so long as the resulting potential on the surface of the vehicle 101 is greater than the zeta potential of the road film.

[0218] FIG. 35A shows a front view of the ESS stage 102 according to the first embodiment. In other embodiments, the ESS stage 102 may include components other than those shown in FIG. 35A . In one embodiment, the ESS stage 102 includes a frame 3503 and a chemical arch 3401. The frame 3503 is a structure used to support components of the ESS stage 102, such as the chemical arch 3401. The frame 3503 includes a plurality of frame rails that collectively form the frame 3503 and provide mechanical support for the chemical arch 3401 and other mechanisms, such as chemical supply lines 3511. The frame 3503 may be made of metal, such as steel or aluminum, or other metals.

[0219] Each chemical arch 3401 sprays a charged chemical 3513 onto the surface of the vehicle 101 using multiple nozzles 3507 included in the chemical arch 3401. The multiple nozzles 3507 are distributed along the chemical arch 3401 to overlap the sides and top of the vehicle 101 while the vehicle 101 is in the ESS stage 102, as shown in FIG. 35A , and spray the charged chemical onto the surface of the vehicle 101. In one embodiment, the chemical solution sprayed by the chemical arch 3401 has a temperature measured at the surface temperature of the vehicle 101 that is within a temperature range that enhances cleaning performance. For example, the chemical is sprayed at a temperature such that the temperature of the chemical measured at the surface of the vehicle is within a temperature range of 110°F to 140°F. Note that the temperature of the chemical at the exit of the chemical arch 3401 is higher than the temperature of the water at the surface of the vehicle 101 because the chemical cools between exiting the chemical arch 3401 and contacting the surface of the vehicle 101. A chemical temperature on the surface of the vehicle 101 below 110°F may reduce the cleaning performance of the cleaning system 3200, while a chemical temperature on the surface of the vehicle 101 above 140°F may pose a safety risk of burning any individual that may accidentally come into contact with the chemical during the cleaning process. In one embodiment, the chemical solution is also sprayed at a pressure range optimized for cleaning performance. In one embodiment, the pressure range is between 20 psi and 300 psi.

[0220] In one embodiment, each chemical arch 3401 is repeatedly activated as the vehicle 101 passes through the ESS stage 102. For example, chemical arch 3401A is activated and begins spraying a charged chemical solution as the vehicle 101 enters the ESS stage 102, and as the vehicle 101 approaches a second chemical arch 3401B, the second chemical arch 3401B begins spraying its charged chemical solution at the vehicle 101, while the first chemical arch 3401A continues spraying its charged chemical solution at the vehicle 101. The first chemical arch 3410A continues spraying its first chemical solution until the vehicle 101 is no longer under the first chemical arch 3401A. As the vehicle 101 approaches the third chemical arch 3401C, the third chemical arch 3401 begins spraying its charged chemical solution at the vehicle 101, while the second chemical arch 3401 continues spraying the second charged chemical solution at the vehicle 101. The second chemical arch 3410B and the third chemical arch 3401C continue spraying their respective chemical solutions until the vehicle 101 is no longer under the respective second and third chemical arches.

[0221] As previously described, the ESS stage 102 includes a reference voltage device 3403. As the vehicle 101 moves through the chemical arch 3401 of the ESS stage 102 as previously described, the vehicle 101 contacts one or more reference voltage devices 3403, which apply a second voltage to the vehicle 101. In one embodiment, the second voltage is a reference voltage, such as 0 volts.

[0222] In the first embodiment, the reference voltage device 3403 is positioned on the ground (e.g., floor) so that the vehicle 101 passes over the reference voltage device 3404 while passing through the ESS stage 102. As the vehicle 101 travels over the reference voltage device 3404, the reference voltage device 3403 directly contacts the vehicle 101 and applies a second voltage to the vehicle 101. For example, the reference voltage device 3403 contacts the underside of the vehicle 101 while the chemical arch 3401 sprays a charged chemical solution onto the vehicle 101. The surface of the vehicle 101 becomes positively charged via the charged chemicals sprayed by the chemical arch 3401, and a second voltage is applied to the vehicle 101 via the reference voltage device 3403, thereby generating a potential on the surface of the vehicle 101 that is greater than the zeta potential of the road film. This potential thereby aids in removing the road film from the top and sides of the vehicle 101 using water and chemicals without using a brush.

[0223] In one embodiment, each chemical arch 3401 includes a chemical charger 3509 as shown in Figure 35A. That is, each chemical arch 3401A, 3401B, and 3401C includes its own dedicated chemical charger 3509. However, in other embodiments, a single chemical charger may be used for different chemical arches 3401.

[0224] In one embodiment, each chemical charger 3509 charges a chemical solution provided from chemical supply line 3511 with a positive charge by applying a first voltage to the chemical solution. As previously mentioned, the first voltage is 12 VDC, although other voltages such as 24 VDC or 12 VAC voltages may also be used. As shown in FIG. 35A, each chemical charger 3509 is disposed between frame 3503 and its respective chemical arch 3401.

[0225] 35B shows a detailed view of chemical charger 3509 according to one embodiment. Chemical charger 3509 includes pipe 3513. Pipe 3513 is electrically conductive and may be made of a metal, such as steel. However, other electrically conductive materials may also be used for pipe 3513. A first end of pipe 3513 includes inlet 3515 connected to the outlet of chemical supply line 3511. A second end of pipe 3513 includes outlet 3519 that supplies the charged chemical solution to chemical arch 3401.

[0226] As shown in FIG. 35B, chemical charger 3509, in one embodiment, includes wire 3517. Wire 3517 is wound (e.g., wrapped) around a portion of pipe 3513. Wire 3517 is made of a conductive material such as copper or aluminum, although other conductive materials may be used. Wire 3517 may have a size ranging from, for example, 18-gauge wire to 10-gauge wire. However, wire 3517 may be other sizes.

[0227] In one embodiment, wire 3517 includes a portion 3521 that is not wrapped around pipe 3513. Portion 3521 of wire 3517 is connected to power supply system 113, which provides a first voltage used by chemical charger 3509 to charge the chemical with a positive charge. While the first voltage is applied to wire 3517, the chemical solution flows through pipe 3513. As the chemical flows through pipe 3513, a positive charge is added to the chemical solution due to the application of the first voltage to wire 3517, which is wrapped around and in direct contact with pipe 3513.

[0228] FIG. 35C shows a detailed view of a voltage reference device 3403 according to one embodiment. The voltage reference device 3403 includes a base 3527 that is secured to a ground surface (e.g., a floor) via fasteners (e.g., nuts and bolts). As shown in FIG. 35C, the base 3527 has a first base portion 3527A that is attached to the ground via fasteners and a second base portion 3527B that extends perpendicularly from the first base portion 3527A. The first base portion 3527A and the second base portion 3527B of the base 3527 form an "L" shape.

[0229] The voltage reference device 3403 also includes a contact mechanism 3523. The contact mechanism 3523 is configured to contact the vehicle 101, such as the underside of the vehicle 101. In one embodiment, the contact mechanism 3523 is a spring made of a conductive material. The spring is flexible so that it flexes as it contacts the vehicle 101 while the vehicle 101 is moving, thereby reducing the possibility of the spring breaking.

[0230] In one embodiment, the contact mechanism 3523 includes a first contact mechanism portion 3523A and a second contact mechanism portion 3523B. The first contact mechanism portion 3523A is generally linear. Meanwhile, the second contact mechanism portion 3523B extends in a curved manner from the first contact mechanism portion 3423A. That is, the second contact mechanism portion 3523B is curved. In one embodiment, the reference voltage device 3403 is positioned so that the curved second contact mechanism portion 3523B is curved in the direction of travel of the vehicle 101. The curvature of the contact mechanism 3523 reduces the likelihood of the contact mechanism becoming stuck (e.g., getting tangled) on any portion of the vehicle 101 as the vehicle 101 travels over the reference voltage device 3403.

[0231] Finally, in one embodiment, the voltage reference device 3403 includes a voltage connector 3525. In one embodiment, the voltage connector 3525 is electrically connected to a contact mechanism 3523. The voltage connector 3525 is electrically connected to the power supply system 113. The voltage reference device 3404 receives a second voltage (e.g., 0 volts) from the power supply system 113 via the voltage connector 3525. Because the voltage connector 3525 is electrically connected to the contact mechanism 3523, the contact mechanism 3523 applies the second voltage to the vehicle 101 while the contact mechanism 3523 is in direct contact with the vehicle 101. In other embodiments, the contact mechanism 3523 can be another type of device for applying the second voltage to the vehicle 101 other than a spring, as previously described.

[0232] Second Embodiment of ESS Stage 102 36 shows a plan view of the ESS stage 102 according to the second embodiment. Similar to the first embodiment of the ESS stage 102, the second embodiment of the ESS stage 102 includes an optical sensor 301 and a plurality of chemical arches 3401A-3401C. As described above with respect to the first embodiment of the ESS stage 102, the chemical arches 3401A-3401C are configured to apply a charged chemical solution to the surface of the vehicle 102 while the vehicle 101 passes through the ESS stage 101.

[0233] In contrast to the first embodiment of the ESS stage 102, the second embodiment of the ESS stage 102 does not include a reference voltage device 3403 for applying a second voltage to the surface of the vehicle 101. Rather, the second embodiment of the ESS stage 102 uses multiple water arches 3603 to apply charged water to the surface of the vehicle 101. As shown in FIG. 36 , the second embodiment of the ESS stage 102 includes water arches 3603A, 3603B, and 3603C. Each water arch 3603 is directly adjacent to at least one of the chemical arches 3401. Although only three water arches are shown, the second embodiment of the ESS stage 102 can include any number of water arches for applying a reference voltage.

[0234] In a second embodiment, a plurality of water arches 3603 are configured to apply electrically charged water to the surface of the vehicle 101. In one embodiment, the water applied by the water arches 3603 is city water or reverse osmosis rejected water, which in one embodiment is applied at a pressure ranging from 700 psi to 3000 psi. However, other types of water and pressure ranges may be used.

[0235] As explained further below, the water applied by the water arch 3603 is charged using a second voltage (e.g., 0 volts) that is lower than the first voltage. Thus, a potential is created on the surface of the vehicle 101 by the chemical arch 3401 applying a chemical solution to the surface of the vehicle 101 charged using a first voltage and the water arch 3603 applying charged water using a second voltage. The potential created on the surface of the vehicle 101 due to the application of the charged chemical solution and charged water has a magnitude greater than the zeta potential of the road film to aid in the removal of the road film using water without the need for a brush. Note that in other embodiments, any reference voltage other than 0 volts can be used as the reference voltage, as long as the resulting potential is greater than the zeta potential of the road film.

[0236] FIG. 37A shows a front view of the ESS stage 102 according to the second embodiment, and FIG. 37B shows a side view of the ESS stage 102. In a front view of the ESS stage 102 according to the second embodiment, the water arch 3603 and the chemical arch 3401 appear to overlap. Therefore, in the front view shown in FIG. 37A, the chemical arch 3401 overlaps the water arch 3603, making the chemical arch 3401 invisible, but in the side view of the ESS stage 102 shown in FIG. 37B, the chemical arch 3401 is visible. As shown in FIG. 37B, in the ESS 102, the chemical arch 3401 is positioned in front of the water arch 3603, and the chemical arch 3401 and the water arch 3603 are spaced apart in the horizontal direction.

[0237] The second embodiment of the ESS stage 102 includes similar features to the first embodiment of the ESS stage 102, and unless otherwise noted, descriptions of similar features will be omitted for ease of description. For example, the second embodiment of the ESS stage 102 includes a frame 3503, a chemical arch 3401 including a plurality of nozzles 3507 that spray a charged chemical solution, a chemical charger 3509 that generates the charged chemical, and chemical supply lines 3511, as described above with respect to the first embodiment of the ESS stage 102. The chemical arch 3401, including the plurality of nozzles 3507, the chemical charger 3509, and the chemical supply lines 3511, perform similar functions as described above with respect to the first embodiment of the ESS stage 102, and therefore will not be described for ease of description. However, it should be noted that while the frame 3503 includes similar components as described above with respect to the first embodiment of the ESS 102, the frame 3503 also supports a water arch 3603 in addition to the chemical arch 3401.

[0238] As previously described, the second embodiment of the ESS stage 102 includes a water arch 3603 that applies charged water to the vehicle 101 rather than using a reference voltage device 3403 to apply a second voltage to the vehicle 101. Each water arch 3603 includes multiple nozzles 3701 distributed along the length of the water arch 3603. The multiple nozzles 3701 are distributed along the spray arch 3505 so that the nozzles 3701 overlap the sides and top of the vehicle 101 while the vehicle 101 moves through the ESS stage 102, as shown in FIG. 37A, and spray the charged water 3703 onto the surface of the vehicle 101. In one embodiment, the water 3703 sprayed by the water arch 3603 has a temperature that causes the temperature of the water 3703 measured at the surface of the vehicle 101 to be within a temperature range that enhances cleaning performance. For example, as previously described, the water is sprayed at a temperature that causes the surface temperature of the vehicle 101 to be between 110°F and 140°F. The temperature of the water at the exit of the water arch 3603 is higher than the temperature of the water at the surface of the vehicle 101 as the water cools during the period between leaving the water arch 3603 and contacting the surface of the vehicle 101 .

[0239] In one embodiment, each water arch 3603 sprays charged water 3703 substantially simultaneously with an adjacent chemical arch 3401 spraying a charged chemical solution onto the surface of the vehicle 101. For example, chemical arch 3401A and water arch 3603A are activated simultaneously to spray charged chemical solution and charged water, respectively, onto the vehicle, chemical arch 3401B and water arch 3603B are activated simultaneously to spray charged chemical solution and charged water, respectively, onto the vehicle 101, etc. The charged chemical solution and charged water create an electric potential on the surface of the vehicle 101 that aids in the removal of road film without the need for brushes.

[0240] In the second embodiment of the ESS stage 102, each water arch 3603 includes a water charger 3705, as shown in FIG. 37A. That is, each water arch 3603A, 3603B, and 3603C includes its own dedicated water charger 3705. The water charger 3705 performs a similar function to the previously described chemical charger 3509, but with respect to water rather than chemicals. The water charger 3705 charges the water by applying a second voltage to the water. As previously described, the second voltage is 0 VDC, but may be other voltages, such as another DC voltage or an AC voltage, as long as a potential higher than the zeta potential of the road film is generated. As shown in FIG. 37A, the water charger 3705 is located between the frame 3503 and the water arch 3603. Water charger 3705 includes a first end connected to an outlet of water supply line 3707 that supplies water to water charger 3705, and a second end connected to an inlet of water arch 3603. In one embodiment, the water supplied via water supply line 3707 is municipal water or excludes reverse osmosis water.

[0241] As the vehicle 101 moves through the chemical arch 3401 and water arch 3603 of the second embodiment of the ESS 102, an electric potential is generated on the surface of the vehicle 101 by the charged chemical solution and charged water sprayed by the chemical arch 3401 and water arch 3603, respectively. As previously mentioned, the generated electric potential is greater than the zeta potential of the road film. This allows the electric potential to aid in the removal of the road film from the surface of the vehicle 101 without the use of brushes.

[0242] Figure 38A shows a detailed view of water charger 3705 from Figure 37A according to one embodiment. Water charger 3705 comprises pipe 3801. Pipe 3801 is electrically conductive and may be made of a metal, such as steel. However, other electrically conductive materials may be used for pipe 3801. A first end of pipe 3801 includes an inlet 3803 connected to the outlet of water supply line 3707. A second end of pipe 3801 includes an outlet 3805 that supplies charged water to water arch 3603.

[0243] As shown in Figure 38A, water charger 3705 has wire 3807 wound (e.g., wrapped) around a portion of pipe 38001. Wire 3807 is made of a conductive material such as copper or aluminum. Wire 3807 can have a size ranging from, for example, 18 gauge wire to 10 gauge wire. However, wire 3807 can be other sizes.

[0244] In one embodiment, wire 3807 includes a portion 3809 that is not wrapped around pipe 3801. Portion 3809 of wire 3807 is connected to power supply system 113, which provides a second voltage used by water charger 3705 to charge the water. Water flows through pipe 3801 while the second voltage is applied to wire 3807. As the water flows through pipe 3801, an electric charge is added to the water due to the application of the second voltage to wire 3807.

[0245] Figure 38B shows a cross-sectional view of water charger 3705 of Figure 37A along line I-I' in Figure 38A, according to one embodiment. As shown in Figure 38B, pipe 3801 is wrapped with wire 3807. Wire 3807 is not insulated, so wire 3807 is in direct contact with pipe 3801. In one embodiment, insulator 3811 is formed on wire 3807 so that the outside of wire 3807 that is not in contact with pipe 3801 is not exposed to the environment. Insulator 3811 also reduces the chance of injury in situations where an individual accidentally comes into contact with wire 3807.

[0246] First washing stage 103 of car wash system 3200 39A and 39B show one embodiment of a first wash stage 103 included in a car wash system 3200. The first wash stage 103 of the car wash system 3200 includes similar components to the first wash stage 100, such as the extendable unit 304 and the wash unit 306, but the first wash stage 103 of the car wash system 3200 is modified to include an electrical isolation system that generates an electrical potential on the vehicle surface during the first wash stage 103 to aid in the removal of road film.

[0247] 39A and 39B show an electroseparation system added to the first cleaning stage 103. In one embodiment, the electroseparation system of the first cleaning stage 103 includes a first charge generator 3901, as shown in FIG. 39A, and a water arch 3903 and a reference charge generator 3905, as shown in FIG. 39B. The charge generator 3901 is configured to charge the water supplied by the water supply line 303 with an electric charge by applying a first voltage to the water supplied by the water supply line 303. As mentioned above, the first voltage is 12 VDC, although other voltages such as 24 VDC or 12 VAC may also be used.

[0248] As shown in FIG. 39A, the first charge generator 3901 has a pipe 3907. The pipe 3907 is conductive and may be made of a metal such as steel and may have a diameter of, for example, 2 inches. However, any other conductive material or size may be used for the pipe 3907. A first end 3911 of the pipe 3907 is connected to a first portion of a water supply line, and a second end 3913 of the pipe 3907 is connected to a second portion of a water supply line that supplies water to the washing unit 306.

[0249] As shown in Figure 39A, the first charge generator 3901 has a wire 3915 wound (e.g., wrapped) around a portion of a pipe 3911. The wire 3915 is made of a conductive material such as copper or aluminum. The wire 3915 can have a size ranging from, for example, 18 gauge wire to 10 gauge wire. However, the wire 3915 can be other sizes.

[0250] In one embodiment, wire 3915 includes a portion 3917 that is not wrapped around pipe 3911. Portion 3917 of wire 3915 is connected to power supply system 113, which provides a first voltage used by first charge generator 3901 to charge the water used to wash the top surface of the vehicle 101 in first cleaning stage 103. While the first voltage is applied to wire 3915, water flows through pipe 3911. As the water flows through pipe 3911, an electric charge is added to the water by the application of the first voltage to wire 3915. The cleaning unit 306 uses the charged water (e.g., positively charged) to wash the top surface of the vehicle 101 as described above.

[0251] As previously mentioned, the electrical separation system added to the first washing stage 103 also includes a water arch 3903 and a second charge generator 3905 according to one embodiment. The second charge generator 3905 applies a second voltage (e.g., 0 volts) to the water supplied to the water arch 3903, thereby charging the water. As shown in FIG. 39B , the second charge generator 3905 includes a pipe 3919. The pipe 3919 is electrically conductive and may be made of a metal such as steel, and may have a diameter of, for example, 2 inches. However, any other electrically conductive material or size may be used for the pipe 3919. A first end of the pipe 3919 includes an inlet 3921 connected to the outlet of the water supply line 303. A second end of the pipe 3905 includes an outlet that supplies the charged water to the water arch 3903.

[0252] In one embodiment, the second charge generator 3905 includes a wire 3923 that is wound (e.g., wrapped) around a portion of the pipe 3919. The wire 3923 is made of a conductive material such as copper or aluminum. The wire 3923 can have a size ranging from, for example, 18 gauge wire to 10 gauge wire. However, the wire 3923 can be other sizes.

[0253] In one embodiment, wire 3923 includes a portion 3925 that is not wrapped around pipe 3919. Portion 3919 of wire 3925 is connected to power supply system 113, which provides a second voltage used by second charge generator 3905 to charge the water used to wash the top surface of the vehicle in first washing stage 103. Water flows through pipe 3919 while a reference voltage is applied to wire 3923. As the water flows through pipe 3919, an electric charge is added to the water by application of the second voltage to wire 3923. Water arch 3903 is supplied with charged water.

[0254] As shown in FIG. 39B , the water arch 3903 includes a plurality of nozzles 3927 included therein. The water arch 3903, which is added to the first wash stage 103 of the car wash system 3200, sprays the top surface of the charged water through the water nozzles 3927. In one embodiment, the water sprayed by the water arch 3903 has a temperature that brings the water temperature within a temperature range that enhances washing performance. For example, the water is sprayed at a temperature that causes the temperature of the water measured at the surface of the vehicle 101 to be within the range of 110°F to 140°F, as described above. Note that the temperature of the water at the exit of the water arch 3903 is higher than the temperature of the water at the surface of the vehicle 101 because the water cools between exiting the water arch 3903 and contacting the surface of the vehicle 101.

[0255] In one embodiment, the water arch 3903 is activated to spray charged water (e.g., positively charged) onto the upper surface of the vehicle 101 using a second voltage substantially simultaneously with the activation of the washing unit 306 to spray charged water onto the upper surface of the vehicle 101. The positively charged water sprayed from the washing unit 306 and the charged water sprayed from the water arch 3903 create a potential on the upper surface of the vehicle 101 that is higher than the zeta potential of the road film, thereby assisting the water in removing the road film from the upper surface of the vehicle 101 without the need for brushes.

[0256] Second washing stage 105 of car wash system 3200 40A, 40B, and 40C show one embodiment of a front view, a side view, and a plan view, respectively, of a portion of the second wash stage 105 included in the car wash system 3200. The second wash stage 105 of the car wash system 3200 includes similar components to the second first wash stage 105 described above for the car wash system 100, such as the nozzle assembly 1707, the nozzles 2603 and 2602, and the base assembly 1705. Thus, common components between the second wash stage 105 of the car wash system 3200 and the second wash stage 105 of the car wash system 100 are omitted. However, the second wash stage 103 of the car wash system 3200 is modified to include an electrical isolation system that generates an electric potential on the surface of the vehicle during the second wash stage 105 to assist in the removal of road film for the sides of the vehicle 101.

[0257] In one embodiment, the electrical separation system of the second cleaning stage 105 includes a first charge generator 4001A and a second charge generator 4001B on each nozzle assembly 1707, as shown in Figures 40B and 40C. The second charge generator 4001B is not shown in Figure 40A because it overlaps with the first charge generator 4001A in the front view of the second cleaning stage 105 shown in Figure 40A.

[0258] 40B, each nozzle assembly 1707 located on each side of the second stage 105 includes multiple nozzle subassemblies 4002A and 4002B that form the nozzle assembly 1707. Each nozzle subassembly 4001A and 4001B includes multiple nozzles 2603 and 2602 that spray electrically charged water onto the side of the vehicle 101. In one embodiment, each nozzle subassembly 4001A and 4001B has its own charge generator 4001 that is used to electrically charge the water supplied to the nozzle subassembly 4001A and 4001B.

[0259] In one embodiment, the first charge generator 4001A of each nozzle assembly 1707 charges (e.g., positively) the water supplied to the nozzle subassembly 4001A using a first voltage, and the second charge generator 4001B charges (e.g., positively) the water supplied to the nozzle subassembly 4001B using a second voltage. The positively charged water ejected from the nozzle subassembly 4001A and the charged water ejected from the nozzle subassembly 4001B create a potential on the side of the vehicle 101 that is greater than the zeta potential of the road film. This allows the road film to be removed from the side of the vehicle 101 without the use of a brush.

[0260] 40C, the first charge generator 4001A and the second charge generator 4001B are disposed between hinge points 3101 and 3103 of the base assembly 1705. As shown in FIG. 40C, the first charge generator 4001A is closer to hinge point 3101 than the second charge generator 4001B, and the second charge generator 4001B is closer to hinge point 3103 than the first charge generator 4001A. Furthermore, in one embodiment, the first charge generator 4001A and the second charge generator 4001B are adjacent to the outer edge of the base assembly 1705. However, the first charge generator 4001A and the second charge generator 4001B may be disposed at positions on the base assembly 1705 different from those shown in FIG. 40C.

[0261] 41 shows a detailed view of a charge generator 4001 that can be used as the first charge generator 4001A and the second charge generator 4001B according to one embodiment. The charge generator 4001 comprises a pipe 4101. The pipe 4101 is conductive and may be made of a metal such as steel and may have a diameter of, for example, 2 inches. However, any other conductive material or size may be used for the pipe 4101. A first end of the pipe 4101 includes an inlet 4103 connected to the outlet of the water supply line 1717. A second end of the pipe 4101 includes an outlet 4105 that supplies positively charged water using a first voltage to the nozzle subassembly 4001A or charged water using a reference voltage to the nozzle subassembly 4001B.

[0262] As shown in Figure 41, the charge generators 4001A, 4001B have a wire 4107 wound (e.g., wrapped) around a portion of the pipe 4101. The wire 4107 is made of a conductive material such as copper or aluminum. The wire 4107 can have a size ranging from, for example, 18 gauge wire to 10 gauge wire. However, the wire 4107 may be other sizes.

[0263] In one embodiment, wire 4107 includes a portion 4109 that is not wrapped around pipe 4101. Portion 4109 of wire 4107 is connected to power supply system 113, which provides either a first voltage for positively charging the water or a second voltage for electrically charging the water. Water flows through pipe 4101 while either the first voltage or a reference voltage is applied to wire 4107. As the water flows through pipe 4101, an electric charge is added to the water by application of the first voltage or the second voltage to wire 4107.

[0264] After washing the vehicle 101 using the second wash stage, the vehicle 101 is washed during a first rinse stage included in the car wash system 3200. In one embodiment, the car wash system 3200 rinses the vehicle 101 using city water or reverse osmosis-rejected water collected from the ESS 102, the first wash stage 103, and / or the second wash stage 105. The rinse water may also be positively charged using a charge generator as described above. In one embodiment, the rinse water has a hardness of 10 grains or less to avoid water spotting and contributing to the road surface membrane potential charge.

[0265] Following the first rinsing stage, a polishing stage may be included in the car wash system 3200. During the polishing stage, the surface of the vehicle 101 is polished to provide additional shine. During the polishing stage, reverse osmosis water containing a polishing additive is applied to the vehicle 101 through a water arch similar to the water arch described above. Following the polishing stage, the vehicle 101 may pass through a second rinsing stage similar to the first rinsing stage described above. However, the reverse osmosis water used during the second rinsing stage is not charged by the car wash system 3200.

[0266] Once the vehicle passes through the second rinse stage, the vehicle enters the drying stage of the car wash system 3200. The drying stage is an area that is kept sufficiently clean to have minimal debris to avoid redepositing contaminants on the surfaces of the vehicle 100. The drying stage can include one or more blowers that use air to dry the vehicle 101.

[0267] chemical composition As previously mentioned, in the second embodiment of the car wash system 3200, the chemical arches 3401A and 3401B included in the ESS stage 102 apply different chemical solutions to the vehicle surface. The chemical solutions used in the ESS stage 102 rely on chemicals having safe, non-corrosive chemistry. In particular, the chemical arch 3401A applies a first chemical solution that is alkaline-based, and the chemical arch 3401B applies a second chemical solution that is acid-based, as previously mentioned.

[0268] In one embodiment, the first chemical solution is an alkaline solution compound containing reverse osmosis water and 5% to 9% sodium bicarbonate by weight. In one embodiment, the reverse osmosis water used in the first chemical solution has a total dissolved solids (TDS) of less than 3, is filtered through activated carbon, and is softened through ion exchange. Sodium bicarbonate is used in the first chemical solution to increase the alkalinity of the first chemical solution and is non-corrosive. Therefore, sodium bicarbonate does not damage the painted surface of the vehicle 101. Furthermore, sodium bicarbonate is a powder that is soluble in room temperature water up to 9.7%, thereby allowing it to be stored without the need for any refrigeration.

[0269] In one embodiment, the first chemical solution includes reverse osmosis water, sodium bicarbonate, a C8-C16 alkyl polyglucoside, and a polyacid polycarboxylate polymer solution according to one embodiment. The C8-C16 alkyl polyglucoside is a surfactant used to capture and encapsulate material (e.g., road film, dirt, grime) removed from the surface of the vehicle 101. The polyacid polycarboxylate polymer solution is an anti-redeposition agent used to reduce the likelihood that material encapsulated by the C8-C16 alkyl polyglucoside will redeposit on the surface of the vehicle 101. In one embodiment, the percentages of the components of the first chemical solution, measured by weight, include 86% reverse osmosis water, 8% sodium bicarbonate, 3% C8-C16 alkyl polyglucoside, and 3% polyacid polycarboxylate polymer solution according to one embodiment. In one embodiment, the first chemical solution may also include a surfactant and a conditioning polymer in addition to reverse osmosis water, sodium bicarbonate, C8-C16 alkyl polyglucoside, and polyacid, polycarboxylate polymer solution when the ESS stage 102 is reduced from a three-stage chemical process to a two-stage chemical process by removing the chemical arch 3401C.

[0270] In one embodiment, the second chemical solution is an acidic solution compound containing reverse osmosis water and 40% to 45% citric acid by weight. In one embodiment, the reverse osmosis water used in the second chemical solution has a total dissolved solids (TDS) of less than 3, is filtered through activated carbon, and is softened through ion exchange. The citric acid used in the second chemical solution increases the acidity of the second chemical solution and is non-corrosive. Therefore, the citric acid does not damage the painted surface of the vehicle 101. Like sodium bicarbonate, citric acid is also a powder that is soluble in room temperature water up to 60%, allowing it to be stored without the need for refrigeration.

[0271] In particular, the second chemical solution includes reverse osmosis water, citric acid, a C8-C16 alkyl polyglucoside, and a polyacid, polycarboxylate polymer solution according to one embodiment. As described above, the C8-C16 alkyl polyglucoside is a surfactant used to capture and encapsulate material (e.g., road film, dirt, grime) removed from the surface of the vehicle 101. The polyacid, polycarboxylate polymer solution is an anti-redeposition agent used to reduce the likelihood that material encapsulated by the C8-C16 alkyl polyglucoside will redeposit on the vehicle surface. In one embodiment, the percentages of the components of the second chemical solution, measured by weight, include 53% reverse osmosis water, 41% citric acid, 3% C8-C16 alkyl polyglucoside, and 3% polyacid, polycarboxylate polymer solution according to one embodiment. In one embodiment, the second chemical solution may include reverse osmosis water, citric acid, C8-C16 alkyl polyglucoside, and if ESS102 is reduced from a three-stage chemical process to a two-stage chemical process by removing chemical arch 3401C, may also include a surfactant and a conditioning polymer in addition to the polyacid, polycarboxylate polymer solution.

[0272] First Embodiment of Controller 109 A first embodiment of the controller 109 independently controls the first wash stage 103 and the second wash stage 105 to wash the vehicle 101 in the car wash system 100. Figure 42 shows a detailed view of the controller 109 according to the first embodiment.

[0273] As shown in FIG. 42 , the controller 109, in one embodiment, includes a first cleaning stage module 4201 and a second cleaning stage module 4203. Generally, the first cleaning stage module 4201 controls the operation of the first cleaning stage 103 to clean the front, top, and rear of the vehicle 101. In contrast, the second cleaning stage module 4203 controls the operation of the second cleaning stage 105 to clean the sides of the vehicle 101. The control of the first cleaning stage 101 and second cleaning stage 102 by the first cleaning stage module 3201 and second cleaning stage 3203, respectively, is separate and independent from one another. The controller 109 may include other modules other than those shown in FIG. 42 in other embodiments.

[0274] The first cleaning stage module 4201 includes a contour module 4205 according to the first embodiment, a water module 4209, and a conditioning module 4211. However, in other embodiments, the first cleaning stage module 3201 may include other modules.

[0275] The contour module 4205 determines a contour of each vehicle 101 to be cleaned by the first cleaning stage 101. As described above, the contour of the vehicle 101 includes a plurality of height points of the vehicle 101 measured along the length of the vehicle 101 using the optical sensor 301. The contour module 4205 determines the contour of the vehicle 101 based on the sensed data received from the optical sensor 301. The sensed data is received from the optical sensor 301, and the contour module 4205 determines height points along the length of the vehicle 101 based on the sensed data to generate the contour of the vehicle 101.

[0276] The water module 4209, in one embodiment, controls the operation of the wash unit 306. In one embodiment, the water module 4209 reciprocally controls when the nozzles 1305 in the front manifold 306A are activated (e.g., turned on) or deactivated (e.g., turned off) and when the nozzles 1307 in the rear manifold 306B are activated or deactivated.

[0277] For example, the water module 4209 may control the operation of the nozzles 1305 and 1307 relative to one another by turning on the nozzle 1305 of the front manifold 306A a predetermined amount of time after the vehicle 101 first crosses the optical sensor 301, and may determine when to turn off the nozzle 1305 of the front manifold 306A and when to turn on the nozzle 1307 of the rear manifold 306A according to the contour shape of each vehicle 101 being washed by the front washing stage 103. The water module 4209 may determine the timing of the on and off operation of the nozzles 1305 and 1307 based on when the rear of the vehicle needs to be washed according to the contour shape, and thus turns off the nozzle 1305 of the front manifold 306A and turns on the nozzle 1307 of the rear manifold 306A.

[0278] The adjustment module 4211 adjusts the position of the telescopic unit 304 according to the contour of the vehicle 101. For each height point within the vehicle contour, the adjustment module 3211 provides a signal to the motor 305 indicating the amount of rotation of the motor 305 required to raise or lower the telescopic unit 304 based on the height. In one embodiment, a lookup table is stored in memory that maps different heights to the amount of vertical movement of the telescopic unit 304 required to achieve the desired height. The amount of vertical movement is converted to a predetermined number of turns of the motor 304 required to achieve the desired height.

[0279] The second washing stage module 4203 includes, in one embodiment, a water module 4215 and a lock module 4219. However, in other embodiments, the second washing stage module 4203 may include different modules than those shown in FIG.

[0280] The water module 4215, in one embodiment, controls the operation of the nozzle assembly cleaning unit 1707. The water module 4215 controls when the nozzles 2602, 2603 included in the cleaning unit 1707 are activated (e.g., turned on) or deactivated (e.g., turned off).

[0281] In one example, the water module 4215 may turn on the nozzles 2602, 2603 in response to determining the width of the second cleaning stage 105 changing due to the vehicle 101 striking the base assemblies 1705, 1705. The water module 4215 may then turn off the nozzles 2602, 2603 after detecting that the width of the second cleaning stage 105 has been reset to its initial position.

[0282] In one embodiment, an angle sensor may be attached to the arm 1703 of the second cleaning stage 105. The water module 4215 may receive a signal from the angle sensor indicating the angle of the arm 1703. Based on the signal, the water module 4215 may determine a change in the width of the second cleaning stage 105 when the angle of the arm 1703 changes. Thus, the water module 4215 may turn on the nozzles 2602, 2603 when it detects that the width of the second cleaning stage 105 has changed from its initial position, and may turn off the nozzles 2602, 2603 when it detects that the width of the second cleaning stage has returned to its initial position.

[0283] The locking module 4219 is configured to lock the length of the cylinder 1713 to maintain the width of the second cleaning stage 105. The locking module 4219 may receive a signal from an angle sensor attached to the arm 1703 of the second cleaning stage 105. The locking module 4219 monitors the angle of the arm 1703 and determines that the arm 1703 is at a predetermined angle greater than the angle corresponding to the initial position of the arm 1703 for a threshold time (e.g., 2 seconds). A constant angle of the arm 1703 for the threshold time means that the width of the second cleaning stage 105 is set, thereby locking the cylinder 1713.

[0284] In one embodiment, the locking module 4219 is configured to unlock the cylinder 1713 in response to determining that the vehicle 101 has exited the second wash stage 105. By knowing the position of the conveyor 107, and therefore the position of the vehicle 101, the locking module 4219 can determine when to unlock the cylinder 1713.

[0285] 1 and 42, a single controller 109 is shown. The functionality of the controllers described herein may be divided among any number of controllers. For example, the car wash 100 may include a controller that includes the first wash stage module 4201 and a separate, independent controller that includes the second wash stage module 4203. Alternatively, the controller 109 may be a single controller. Thus, embodiments herein may use a single controller or multiple controllers to control the first wash stage 103 and the second wash stage 105.

[0286] Second Embodiment of Controller 109 A second embodiment of the controller 109 independently controls the ESS 102, the first wash stage 103, and the second wash stage 105 to wash the vehicle 101 in the car wash system 3200. Figure 43 shows a detailed view of the controller 109 according to the second embodiment.

[0287] As shown in Figure 43, the controller 109 includes a first cleaning stage module 4201 and a second cleaning stage module 4203, as described above with respect to Figure 42. Accordingly, the features and operations of the first cleaning stage module 4201 and the second cleaning stage module 4203, respectively, will be omitted for purposes of explanation.

[0288] 43, a second embodiment of the controller 109 further includes an ESS module 4301 in addition to the first cleaning stage module 4201 and the second cleaning stage module 4203 as previously described. The ESS module 4301 controls the operation of the ESS stage 102, which generates an electrical potential on the surface of the vehicle 101 that assists in the removal of road film on the surface of the vehicle.

[0289] The ESS module 4301 includes a chemical module 4303, a water module 4305, and a power module 4305 according to a second embodiment of the controller 109. Note that in other embodiments, the ESS module 4301 may include other modules shown in FIG.

[0290] Chemical module 4303, in one embodiment, controls the operation of chemical arch 3401. Chemical module 4303, in one embodiment, reciprocally controls when nozzles 3507 on chemical arch 3401 are activated (e.g., turned on) or deactivated (e.g., turned off).

[0291] For example, the chemical module 4303 mutually controls the operation of the chemical arches 3401A-3401C by turning on the respective nozzles 3507 for each chemical arch 3401A-3401C a predetermined first time after the vehicle 101 first crosses the optical sensor 301 included in the ESS 102. Each of the chemical arches 3401A-3401C has its own timing for when its respective nozzles 3507 are turned on. Similarly, the chemical module 4303 determines when to turn off the respective nozzles 3507 of each chemical arch 3401A-3401C a predetermined second time after the vehicle 101 first crosses the optical sensor 301 that is longer than the predetermined first time. The chemical module 4303 can determine the timing of the on and off operation of the nozzles 3507 based on the length of the vehicle 101 measured from the optical sensor 301, the speed of the conveyor 107, and the spacing between each chemical arch 3401A-3401C.

[0292] The water module 4305 controls the operation of the water arches 3603A-3603C in the second embodiment of the ESS 102 shown in Figure 36. In the first embodiment of the ESS 102 without the water arches 3603A-3603C, as shown in Figure 34, the water module 4305 is not required. In one embodiment, the water module 4305 mutually controls when the nozzles 3701 of each of the water arches 3603A-3603C are activated (e.g., turned on) or deactivated (e.g., turned off).

[0293] For example, the water module 4305 interactively controls the operation of the water arches 3603A-3603C by turning on the respective nozzles 3701 for each water arch 3603A-3603C a predetermined first time after the vehicle 101 first crosses the optical sensor 301 included in the ESS 102. Each of the water arches 3603A-3603C has a respective timing for when the respective nozzles 3701 are turned on. Similarly, the water module 4305 determines when to turn off the respective nozzles 3701 for each water arch 3603A-3603C a predetermined second time after the vehicle 101 first crosses the optical sensor 301 that is longer than the predetermined first time. The water module 4305 can determine the timing of the on and off operation of the nozzles 3701 of each water arch 3603A to 3603C based on the length of the vehicle 101 measured from the optical sensor 301, the speed of the conveyor 107, and the spacing between each water arch 3603A to 3603C.

[0294] The power supply module 4305 is configured to activate and deactivate the supply of a first voltage to the chemical arch 3401 and various charge generators in the ESS102, the first cleaning stage 103, and the second cleaning stage 105, and to activate and deactivate the supply of a second voltage to the reference voltage device 3403, the water arch, and the reference charge generator 3905 in the ESS102, the first cleaning stage 103, and the second cleaning stage 105.

[0295] Computer Hardware Components Figure 44 is a diagram illustrating a computer system 4400 in which embodiments described herein may be implemented within the car wash system 100. For example, with reference to Figure 1, the controller 109 may be implemented using a computer system such as that described by Figure 44. The controller 109 may also be implemented using a combination of multiple computer systems as described by Figure 44.

[0296] In one embodiment, the controller 109 includes processing resources 4401, a main memory 4403, a read-only memory (ROM) 4405, a storage device 4407, and a communication interface 4409. The controller 109 includes at least one processor 4401 for processing information and a main memory 4403, such as a random access memory (RAM) or other dynamic storage device, for storing information and instructions executed by the processor 4401. The main memory 4403 may also be used to store temporary variables or other intermediate information during execution of instructions executed by the processor 4401. The controller 109 may also include a ROM 4405 or other static storage device for storing static information and instructions for the processor 4401. The storage device 4407 is provided as a magnetic or optical disk, solid-state memory device, or the like, for storing information and instructions. In one embodiment, the contour shape of the vehicle 101 is stored in either the main memory 4403, the ROM 4405, or the storage device 4407, or a combination thereof.

[0297] The communications interface 4409 may enable the controller 109 to communicate with other computer systems using a communications link (wireless or wired). The controller 109 may include a display device 4411, such as a cathode ray tube (CRT), LCD monitor, LED monitor, TFT display, or television set, for displaying graphics and information to a user. An input mechanism 4413, such as a keyboard including alphanumeric and other keys, may be coupled to the computer system 4400 for communicating information and command selections to the processor 4401. Other non-limiting illustrative examples of the input mechanism 4413 include a mouse, trackball, touch-sensitive screen, or cursor direction keys for communicating directional information and command selections to the processor 4401 and for controlling cursor movement on the display device 4411.

[0298] Examples described herein relate to the use of the controller 109 to implement the techniques described herein. According to one embodiment, these techniques are performed by the controller 109 in response to the processor 4401 executing one or more sequences of one or more instructions contained in the main memory 4403. Such instructions may be read into the main memory 4403 from another machine-readable medium, such as the storage device 4407. Execution of the sequences of instructions contained in the main memory 4403 causes the processor 4401 to perform the process steps described herein. In alternative implementations, hardwired circuitry may be used in place of or in combination with software instructions to implement the examples described herein. The various modules illustrated in FIG. 44 may be software modules or combinations thereof stored in either the main memory 4403, the ROM 4405, or the storage device 4407 for execution by the processor 4401; they may also be hardware modules; or a combination of hardware and software. Thus, the described examples are not limited to any specific combination of hardware circuitry and software.

[0299] References herein to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is included in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. The appearances of the phrases "in one embodiment" or "a preferred embodiment" in various places in the specification do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment.

[0300] In this disclosure, terms such as "first," "second," "A," and "B" are used herein to describe elements of the present invention. Each of these terms is not used to define the nature, order, sequence, or number of elements, but is simply used to distinguish the corresponding element from other elements. For example, telescopic unit 304 includes multiple rail stages 801, and the rail stages include rail stages 801A, 801B, 801C, and 801D.

[0301] Certain aspects disclosed herein include process steps and instructions described herein in the form of a method. It should be noted that the process steps and instructions described herein may be implemented in software, firmware, or hardware, and, if implemented in software, may be downloaded to reside on and operate from different platforms used by various operating systems. Furthermore, without loss of generality, it has sometimes proven convenient to refer to the arrangement of operations as modules. The described operations and their associated modules may be embodied in software, firmware, hardware, or any combination thereof.

[0302] The foregoing embodiments also relate to apparatus for performing the operations herein. This apparatus may be specially constructed for the required purposes, or it may comprise a general-purpose computer selectively activated or reconfigured by a computer program stored within the computer. Such computer programs may be stored on any type of non-transitory computer-readable storage medium, such as, but not limited to, a floppy disk, an optical disk, a CD-ROM, a magneto-optical disk, a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), an EPROM, an EEPROM, a magnetic or optical card, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or any type of medium suitable for storing electronic instructions, each coupled to a computer system bus. Furthermore, the computers referred to herein may include a single processor or may be architectures employing multiple processor designs to increase computing power.

[0303] The methods and displays presented herein are not inherently related to any particular computer or other apparatus. Moreover, various general-purpose systems may be used with programs in accordance with the teachings herein, or it may prove convenient to construct more specialized apparatus to perform the required method steps. The required structure for a variety of these systems will appear from the description below. Additionally, the embodiments are not described with reference to any particular programming language. It will be understood that a variety of programming languages ​​can be used to implement the teachings described herein, and any references below to specific languages ​​are provided for purposes of enablement and best mode disclosure.

[0304] While the present disclosure has been particularly shown and described with reference to preferred and several alternative embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail can be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

1. one or more brushless scrubbing stage apparatus including an electro-separation system (ESS) stage for scrubbing an exterior surface of a vehicle using a plurality of chemical solutions without brushes, the ESS stage configured to charge the plurality of chemical solutions using a first voltage without brushes to create an electrical potential on the exterior surface of the vehicle that destabilizes a road film on the exterior surface of the vehicle; The ESS stage comprises: a chemical arch including a plurality of nozzles, the chemical arch configured to spray a chemical solution of a plurality of chemical solutions; a chemical charger coupled to the chemical arch and configured to apply the first voltage to the chemical solution sprayed by the chemical arch to electrically charge the chemical solution sprayed by the chemical arch; The chemical charger comprises: a conductive pipe including a first end coupled to a chemical supply line, the chemical supply line supplying the chemical solution sprayed by the chemical arch to the chemical charger through the first end of the conductive pipe, the conductive pipe including a second end coupled to the chemical arch; a conductor wrapped around a portion of the conductive pipe, the first voltage being applied to the conductor wrapped around the portion of the conductive pipe to electrically charge the chemical solution within the conductive pipe. Brushless car wash system.

2. 2. The brushless car wash system of claim 1, wherein the ESS stage comprises a plurality of chemical arches including the chemical arch, each of the plurality of chemical arches including a plurality of nozzles, and each of the plurality of chemical arches configured to spray a different chemical solution from the plurality of chemical solutions.

3. 3. The brushless car wash system of claim 2, wherein the ESS stage further includes a plurality of chemical chargers including the chemical charger, each chemical charger being coupled to a corresponding one of the plurality of chemical arches and configured to apply the first voltage to a corresponding chemical solution of the plurality of chemical solutions sprayed by the corresponding one of the plurality of chemical arches to electrically charge the chemical solution.

4. Each of the plurality of chemical chargers comprises: each conductive pipe including a first end coupled to a chemical supply line, the chemical supply line supplying the corresponding chemical solution to be sprayed by a corresponding one of the plurality of chemical arches to the chemical charger through the first end of the each conductive pipe, and each conductive pipe including a second end coupled to the corresponding one of the plurality of chemical arches; a respective conductor wrapped around a portion of each of the conductive pipes, the first voltage being applied to the respective conductor wrapped around the portion of each of the conductive pipes to charge the corresponding chemical solution within the respective conductive pipes; 4. The brushless car wash system of claim 3, comprising:

5. the ESS stage further comprising a plurality of reference voltage devices positioned along a length of the brushless car wash system, each of the plurality of reference voltage devices configured to apply a second voltage to the vehicle; the potential is generated based on the plurality of charged chemical solutions on the exterior surface of the vehicle and the second voltage applied by the plurality of reference voltage devices.

4. The brushless car wash system of claim 3.

6. 6. The brushless car wash system of claim 5, wherein the first voltage is 12 volts and the second voltage is 0 volts.

7. At least one of the plurality of reference voltage devices a base assembly coupled to a ground surface of the brushless car wash system; a contact mechanism attached to the base assembly and configured to directly contact an undercarriage of the vehicle to apply the second voltage to the vehicle; The brushless car wash system of claim 5 , comprising:

8. 8. The brushless car wash system of claim 7, wherein the contact mechanism is a spring having curved ends that curve toward the direction of movement of the vehicle along the brushless car wash system.

9. The brushless car wash system of claim 5 , wherein each of the plurality of reference voltage devices is spaced a predetermined distance from another one of the plurality of reference voltage devices.

10. the ESS stage further comprises a plurality of water arches, each including a plurality of nozzles, each of the plurality of water arches being positioned between a corresponding pair of chemical arches from the plurality of chemical arches, and configured to spray water charged using the plurality of nozzles using a second voltage lower than the first voltage; the electrical potential is generated based on the plurality of differently charged chemical solutions on the exterior surface of the vehicle and the water being charged with the second voltage; 4. The brushless car wash system of claim 3.

11. 11. The brushless car wash system of claim 10, wherein the first voltage is 12 volts and the second voltage is 0 volts.

12. 11. The brushless car wash system of claim 10, wherein the ESS stage apparatus further includes a plurality of water chargers, each water charger coupled to a corresponding one of the plurality of water arches and configured to apply the second voltage to the water to electrically charge the water.

13. a first brushless washing stage positioned after the ESS stage, the first brushless washing stage device being configured to wash a plurality of upper surfaces of the vehicle using charged water that generates the electric potential on the exterior surface of the vehicle, the first brushless washing stage device including a plurality of nozzles, the heights of the nozzles being adjusted a plurality of times as the plurality of nozzles spray the charged water onto the plurality of upper surfaces of the vehicle, the heights of the plurality of nozzles being adjusted according to the contour shape of the plurality of upper surfaces of the vehicle; a second brushless washing stage positioned after the first brushless washing stage, the second brushless washing stage configured to wash a plurality of sides of the exterior of the vehicle using charged water that generates the electric potential on the sides of the vehicle independently of the ESS stage and the first brushless washing stage, the second brushless washing stage including a plurality of nozzles that spray charged water onto the plurality of sides of the vehicle according to the contours of the plurality of sides of the exterior of the vehicle; The brushless car wash system of claim 1 further comprising:

14. The first brushless cleaning stage comprises: a first water charger that applies the first voltage to the first water to charge the first water to be sprayed by the plurality of nozzles of the first brushless cleaning stage; a second water charger configured to apply a second voltage lower than the first voltage to the second water to charge the second water; a spray arch coupled to the second water charger, the spray arch configured to spray the charged second water onto the plurality of upper surfaces of the vehicle; Including, the electric potential is generated on the plurality of upper surfaces of the vehicle based on the charged first water and the charged second water on the plurality of upper surfaces of the vehicle; 14. The brushless car wash system of claim 13.

15. The second brushless cleaning stage comprises: a first nozzle assembly on a first side of the vehicle, the first nozzle assembly including a first nozzle subassembly configured to spray a first stream of water charged with the first voltage onto a plurality of first side surfaces of the first side of the vehicle, and a second nozzle subassembly configured to spray a second stream of water charged with a second voltage lower than the first voltage onto the plurality of first side surfaces of the first side of the vehicle; a second nozzle assembly on a second side of the vehicle opposite the first side, the second nozzle assembly including a third nozzle subassembly configured to spray the first water charged with the first voltage onto a plurality of second side surfaces of the second side of the vehicle, and a fourth nozzle subassembly configured to spray the second water charged with the second voltage onto the plurality of second side surfaces of the second side of the vehicle; Including, the electric potential is generated on the first sides of the vehicle based on the charged first water and the charged second water on the first sides, and the electric potential is generated on the second sides of the vehicle based on the charged first water and the charged second water on the second sides; 14. The brushless car wash system of claim 13.

16. 10. The brushless car wash system of claim 1, wherein the temperature of at least one of the plurality of chemical solutions on the exterior surface of the vehicle is within a range of 110 degrees Fahrenheit to 140 degrees Fahrenheit.

17. a third brushless scrubbing stage positioned after the second brushless scrubbing stage and configured to apply an electrically charged abrasive to a surface of the vehicle; a fourth brushless cleaning stage positioned after the third brushless cleaning stage and configured to apply charged wax to a surface of the vehicle; a drying stage positioned after the fourth brushless washing stage and configured to dry the exterior surface of the vehicle; The brushless car wash system of claim 13 further comprising:

18. The brushless car wash system of claim 1 , wherein the ESS stage is configured to apply the plurality of chemical solutions at a pressure between 20 psi and 300 psi.

19. at least one chemical arch configured to spray a chemical solution charged with a first voltage onto an exterior surface of the vehicle; at least one reference voltage device configured to electrically contact the vehicle and apply a second voltage to the vehicle while the at least one chemical arch sprays the charged chemical solution onto the exterior surface of the vehicle; Equipped with based on the charged chemical solution on the exterior surface of the vehicle and the second voltage applied to the vehicle, a potential is generated on the exterior surface of the vehicle that destabilizes a road film on the exterior surface of the vehicle without the use of brushes. Electrical separation system for brushless car wash system.

20. 20. The electroseparation system of claim 19, wherein the generated electrical potential is greater than the zeta potential of the road film on the exterior surface of the vehicle.

21. at least one chemical arch configured to spray a chemical solution charged with a first voltage onto an exterior surface of the vehicle; at least one water arch configured to spray water charged with a second voltage lower than the first voltage onto the exterior surface of the vehicle while the at least one chemical arch is spraying the charged chemical solution; a chemical charger coupled to the at least one chemical arch and configured to apply the first voltage to the chemical solution sprayed by the chemical arch to electrically charge the chemical solution sprayed by the chemical arch; The chemical charger comprises: a conductive pipe including a first end coupled to a chemical supply line, the chemical supply line supplying the chemical solution to the chemical charger through the first end of the conductive pipe, the conductive pipe including a second end coupled to the at least one chemical arch; a conductor wrapped around a portion of the conductive pipe, the first voltage being applied to the conductor wrapped around the portion of the conductive pipe to electrically charge the chemical solution within the conductive pipe. based on the charged chemical solution and the charged water on the exterior surface of the vehicle, an electrical potential is generated on the exterior surface of the vehicle that destabilizes a road film on the exterior surface of the vehicle without the use of a brush. Electrical separation system for brushless car wash system.

22. 22. The electroseparation system of claim 21, wherein the generated electrical potential is greater than the zeta potential of a road film on the exterior surface of the vehicle.

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