Handheld Lance Force Control for Vehicle Wash Systems
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing high-pressure washing systems with hand-held lances are inefficient due to the distance between the washing tool and its control unit, leading to waste of time and risk of accidental splashing, as users must frequently return to the control box to change phases, and the pressure of the jet is not easily adjustable for specific cleaning tasks.
Innovation Solution
A system that integrates force-detecting sensors connected to a central processing unit, allowing users to control washing parameters such as pressure and phase changes directly from the lance through natural gestures, using mechanical sensors and a central processing unit to interpret user inputs and adjust the washing characteristics accordingly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the control unit is placed at a fixed location away from the washing tool, then the control system is stable and easy to implement, but the user experiences inconvenience and time loss when changing phases
Solution Approach 1:
The system allows the user to control washing phases directly from the lance position through force detection, eliminating the need to return to a fixed control box. The force sensor on the pipe detects user gestures and automatically triggers phase changes, making the system self-responding to user needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical control (buttons/joysticks at a fixed location) with automatic force detection sensors that sense user gestures on the flexible pipe and convert them into control signals, eliminating the need for physical interaction with distant control interfaces.
2Ease of operation
If the user operates the control unit while holding the lance with one hand, then phase changes can be initiated, but accidental splashing and loss of control occur
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically detects user intent through force applied to the pipe and executes phase changes without requiring the user to manually operate controls, eliminating the risk of accidental splashing during control operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The force sensor acts as an intermediary between the user's natural gesture and the control system, translating physical force on the pipe into controlled phase changes, thereby eliminating direct manual operation of controls while maintaining reliability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the pressure is fixed according to the washing phase, then the control system is simple, but the user cannot adapt pressure for specific cleaning tasks
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts pressure within a phase based on real-time force detection. Users can apply additional force to the pipe during a phase to temporarily increase pressure for stubborn stains, then release to return to baseline pressure, enabling adaptive control without complex manual interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables temporary parameter changes (pressure increase) within a washing phase through force detection, allowing users to adapt pressure levels for specific cleaning needs while maintaining the overall phase structure, thus balancing versatility with system simplicity.
4Ease of operation
If the user exerts force on the pipe to control washing parameters, then direct control from the lance is enabled, but the pipe must be designed to withstand and return from such forces
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates a return mechanism that automatically restores the pipe to its initial position after force application. This cushioning mechanism ensures the pipe can withstand user gestures while maintaining structural integrity and readiness for subsequent control actions.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution reduces user inconvenience by enabling direct control of washing parameters from the lance, allowing for precise adjustments in pressure and phase changes, enhancing safety and efficiency during vehicle washing.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor module for forces exerted on the pipe
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a system for controlling the washing characteristics for a vehicle being washed in a facility comprising a nozzle spraying a jet of pressurised liquid towards the vehicle. The nozzle, which is held by a user, is disposed at the end of a liquid-conveying hose extending from an upper rotating gantry that is substantially centred in relation to the vehicle. In addition, a control unit allows the washing cycle phases to be controlled by means of a lever and/or viewed. The system comprises means for detecting forces exerted by the user on the hose, connected to a central processing unit that analyses each force.