APPARATUS FOR RECONDITIONING WHEELS

Abstract

An apparatus for reconditioning wheels, the apparatus including: a trolley mounted base; and a reconditioning assembly rotatably mounted to the base, the reconditioning assembly including at least one reconditioning element.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to an apparatus for reconditioning wheels, in particular polishing and/or cleaning wheels.

BACKGROUND

The reference in this specification to any prior publication (or information derived from it), or to any matter which is known, is not, and should not be taken as an acknowledgment or admission or any form of suggestion that the prior publication (or information derived from it) or known matter forms part of the common general knowledge in the field of endeavour to which this specification relates.

It is common place for vehicle wheels to become dirty or tarnished during use. This is typically due to dirt, gravel and other debris on the road or driving surface.

Reconditioning wheels, such as, for example by cleaning and polishing, can be a laborious task. It can be particularly onerous when the process is carried out by hand. Furthermore, some cleaning methods require the wheels to be removed from the vehicle for cleaning. When the wheels are large, such as those used on trucks, this can be both time consuming and dangerous.

To speed up the reconditioning process, workers have been known to elevate vehicles above the ground, and then rotate the wheels (using the motor or otherwise) while placing a polishing/cleaning towel in contact with the wheel surface. This is particularly dangerous behavior as the worker may come into contact with the spinning wheel. The elevated vehicle may also fall, or the cleaning towel may become entangled in the spinning wheel.

Some devices, such as that described in U.S. Pat. No. 8,668,556, use a rotatable polishing head mounted on wheels. However, such devices are generally not adjustable for a range of wheel types and/or for a variety reconditioning purposes. Furthermore, the devices described therein require significant effort from the operator to maintain them against the wheel surface in a polishing/cleaning position.

The present invention seeks to address some of the shortcomings of prior art methods/devices.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one broad form, the present invention provides an apparatus for reconditioning wheels, the apparatus including: a trolley mounted base; and a reconditioning assembly rotatably mounted to the base, the reconditioning assembly including at least one reconditioning element.

In one form, the apparatus further includes including a drive means configured to rotate the reconditioning assembly.

In one form, the reconditioning assembly includes a plurality of reconditioning elements. In one form, the reconditioning elements are polishing or cleaning elements. In a further form the plurality of reconditioning elements are circumferentially spaced about the axis of rotation of the reconditioning assembly.

In one form, each reconditioning element is mounted to a respective support arm extending from or attached to a central hub of the reconditioning assembly. In one form, the central hub is mounted to a shaft rotated by the drive means. In one form, the drive means includes a motor.

In one form, the radial positioning of each reconditioning element, with respect to the axis of rotation of the reconditioning assembly, is adjustable via movement, extension, retraction, rotation or adjustment of the support arms.

In one form, the support arms are adjustable in length. In another form, the support arms are movable between extended and retracted states via telescopic engagement with the central hub.

In another form, the support arms are hingedly mounted to the central hub, and pivoting movement of the support arms adjusts the radial positioning of the reconditioning elements.

In a further form, the apparatus includes a linker connecting the support arms, the linker configured to ensure synchronized and/or coordinated movement of the support arms. In one form, the linker is a slotted plate permitted to rotate with respect to the axis of rotation of the reconditioning assembly, and each support arm is pivotally linked to a respective slot in the plate.

In one form, the support arms are non-fixedly connected with the central hub such that during rotation of the reconditioning assembly, the centrifugal force provided by rotation of the reconditioning assembly leads to movement of the support arms to an extended position wherein the radial extension the reconditioning elements is increased.

In one form, the reconditioning assembly includes a spring mechanism which biases the support arms in a retracted configuration.

In one form, the support arms are inflexible.

In one form, each reconditioning element is mounted to a respective support arm via a mounting rod, the mounting rod extending in a direction substantially parallel to the axis of rotation of the reconditioning assembly.

In one form, the at least one reconditioning element includes a flap of material. In one form the at least one reconditioning element includes a flap of material with a socket therein for sleeve type engagement with the mounting rod. In one form, the mounting rod extends only partially along an edge of the flap such that the flap extends beyond the distal end of the mounting rod. In one form, the flap is formed of a textile, fabric or cloth material. In another form, the flap is of substantially rectangular shape.

In one form, the reconditioning element includes a brush. In one form, the brush includes a plurality of substantially aligned resilient bristles. In another form, the bristles are aligned in a direction offset from parallel to the axis of rotation of the reconditioning assembly. In one form the reconditioning element includes a cover to cover all or part of the bristles. In one form, the cover is formed of a textile, fabric or cloth material.

In one form, the apparatus further includes an alignment rod which extends along the axis of rotation of the reconditioning assembly. In one form, the alignment rod is configured for engagement with an alignment bracket, the alignment bracket being configured to releasably engage a wheel.

In one form, the height of the reconditioning assembly is adjustable. In one form, the trolley mounted base include a scissor lift mechanism to adjust the height of the reconditioning assembly.

In another form the apparatus further includes a control unit configured control the height and/or rotation of the reconditioning assembly based on input received form a user.

In a further broad form the present invention provides a reconditioning element configured for an apparatus as described in any one of the above forms.

In a further broad form the present invention provides a reconditioning element for a reconditioning apparatus, the reconditioning element including: a brush having array of bristles; a cover configured to cover at least a first side of the array.

In another form, the cover is configured to additionally cover the tips of the bristles. In a further form, the array of bristles is a substantially rectangular array. In one form, the cover is releasably attachable to the bristles. In another form, the cover is releasably attachable to the bristles via a strap which loops around the array. In one form, the element is used for polishing and/or cleaning.

In a further broad form the present invention provides a reconditioning element for a reconditioning apparatus, the reconditioning element including a flap of material, the flap of material including a socket therein for receiving a mounting rod of the apparatus.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

This invention may be better understood with reference to the illustrations of embodiments of the invention in which:

FIG. 1 shows a front perspective view of one example of an apparatus according to the invention having pads attached;

FIG. 2 shows a side view of the apparatus of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 shows a rear perspective view of the apparatus of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 shows an enlarged front perspective view of the apparatus of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 shows a side view of one example of the apparatus according to the invention having cloths flaps attached;

FIG. 6 shows a top view of the apparatus of FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 shows a front view of the apparatus of FIG. 5;

FIG. 8 shows a rear view of the apparatus of FIG. 5;

FIG. 9 shows a further side view of the apparatus of FIG. 5;

FIG. 10 shows a rear perspective view of the apparatus of FIG. 5;

FIG. 11 shows a front perspective view of the apparatus of FIG. 5;

FIG. 12 shows a side view of the apparatus according to the invention having cloth covered bristled members;

FIG. 13 shows a top view of the apparatus of FIG. 12;

FIG. 14 shows a rear view of the apparatus of FIG. 12;

FIG. 15 shows a further side view of the apparatus of FIG. 12;

FIG. 16 shows a rear perspective view of the apparatus of FIG. 12;

FIG. 17 shows a front perspective view of the apparatus of FIG. 12;

FIG. 18 shows a front view of the apparatus of FIG. 12;

FIG. 19 shows a front perspective view of one example of the apparatus with a reconditioning assembly including central hub and support arms;

FIG. 20 shows a side view of the apparatus in FIG. 19;

FIG. 21 shows a cross sectional side view of the apparatus of FIG. 19;

FIG. 22 shows a rear perspective view of one example of the apparatus with an alignment rod to be engaged with alignment bracket on a wheel;

FIG. 23 shows a side view of the example of FIG. 22;

FIG. 24 shows a front perspective view of the example of FIG. 22;

FIG. 25 shows a front perspective view of the example of FIG. 22 without the wheel;

FIG. 26 shows a rear perspective view and a rear view of a further example of hub part of a reconditioning assembly with freely telescoping arms;

FIG. 27 shows a rear perspective view and a rear view of the hub part of FIG. 26 with support arms in the extended position;

FIG. 28 shows a rear perspective view and front view of a further example of a hub part of a reconditioning assembly where hub part is a plate;

FIG. 29 shows a rear perspective view and front view of the hub part of FIG. 28 with support arms in the extended position;

FIG. 30 shows a perspective view of one example of a reconditioning assembly wherein the assembly includes reconditioning elements that are brushes with covers;

FIG. 31 shows an enlarged perspective view of the reconditioning elements of FIG. 29;

FIG. 32 shows a top perspective view of a cover used for the reconditioning elements as shown in FIG. 31; and

FIG. 33 shows a bottom perspective view of a cover used for the reconditioning elements as shown in FIG. 31.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Embodiments of the present invention include an apparatus for reconditioning wheels. The apparatus includes a trolley mounted base and a reconditioning assembly rotatably mounted to the base. The reconditioning assembly includes at least one reconditioning element.

Typically, a drive means is configured to rotate the reconditioning assembly and the reconditioning assembly includes a plurality of reconditioning elements. The conditioning elements may, for example, be polishing or cleaning elements.

To recondition a wheel, the apparatus is wheeled into a position adjacent the wheel such that the reconditioning elements contact the wheel surface. Rotation of the reconditioning assembly thus moves the reconditioning elements around the wheel surface. It is typically not necessary to remove the wheel from the vehicle. However, in some instances, the wheel may be removed.

Generally, the plurality of reconditioning elements are circumferentially spaced about the axis of rotation of the reconditioning assembly such the reconditioning elements track along the same circular path on the wheel surface. However, it will be appreciated that in some forms this may not be the case, and the elements may track along different circular paths thereby reconditioning different parts of the wheel surface.

The reconditioning assembly may take a variety of forms. In one example, each reconditioning element is mounted to a respective support arm extending from a central hub. The central hub itself is generally mounted to a shaft rotated by the drive means. The drive means may take a variety of forms but typically includes an electric motor.

Generally, the radial positioning of each reconditioning element, with respect to the axis of rotation of the reconditioning assembly, is adjustable via movement, extension, retraction or adjustment of the support arms. This allows for adjustment of the diameter of the circular path taken by the reconditioning elements on the wheel surface. The apparatus may therefore be adjusted for use with different sized wheels. The support arms may be adjustable in length. For example, the support arms may be movable between extended and retracted states via telescopic engagement with the central hub. An alterative variation has the support arms hingedly mounted to the central hub, with pivoting movement of the support arms adjusting the radial positioning of the reconditioning elements.

The apparatus may also include a linker connecting the support arms, the linker configured to ensure synchronized and/or coordinated movement of the support arms. For example a linker can ensure equal radial extension/positioning of the reconditioning elements. In one example, the linker may be a slotted plate permitted to rotate with respect to the axis of rotation of the reconditioning assembly, with each support arm pivotally linked to a respective slot in the plate.

The support arms may be non-fixedly connected to the central hub such that during rotation of the reconditioning assembly, the centrifugal force provided by rotation of the reconditioning assembly leads to movement of the support arms to an extended position wherein the radial extension the reconditioning elements is increased. For example the support arms may be allowed to freely telescope within the central hub or freely rotate with respect to the central hub.

In other forms the support arms may be adjusted between several fixed or secure positions which fix the radial extension of the reconditioning elements.

In situations where the support arms non-fixedly connected, the reconditioning assembly may include a spring mechanism which biases the support arms in a retracted configuration.

The support arms are also typically rigid/inflexible in nature (i.e. typically not bendable or flexible). However, it will be appreciated that this may not always be the case.

In some examples, mounting rods may be used to facilitate mounting of the reconditioning elements to the support arms. When used, mounting rods would generally extend in a direction substantially parallel to the axis of rotation of the reconditioning assembly. The use of mounting rods can thus help to place the reconditioning elements in more protruded position for contact with the wheel surface. Furthermore, reconditioning elements and/or mounting rods may be configured such that elements are able to rotate, either fully or to a limited extent, about the mounting rods (i.e. about the longitudinal axis of the mounting rods). Rotational movement of the elements about the mounting rods may provide improved conformity/contact with the wheel surface.

It will be appreciated that the reconditioning elements may take a variety of forms and may be used for a variety of reconditioning tasks such as polishing, cleaning or spraying (e.g. for applying protective coatings or paint etc.). Apart from the nature of reconditioning required, reconditioning elements may be selected based on a range of other factors such as the type of wheel to be reconditioned (e.g. steer, drive or trailer wheel). For example, some elements may be more suited to particular types of wheels having a particular surface profiles or shapes.

Furthermore, the reconditioning elements may be formed of a variety of materials and may take a variety of forms such as pads, flaps or brushes. Some example materials include but are not limited to woven or non-woven cloth, sandpaper, emery cloth, non-woven abrasive, bristles (abrasive and non abrasive), towel, pleated cotton cloth (which may be treated to add stiffness), cotton/polyester blended cloth, non woven nylon abrasive and non abrasive cloth, abrasive brushes, and coated abrasive cloth paper.

Reconditioning elements, particularly polishing elements, may also be coated with a liquid or paste abrasive and/or may be impregnated with abrasive compounds or compositions. Elements (e.g. pads) may also be profiled to approximate wheel surface profiles. In addition, some reconditioning elements (e.g. pads or abrasive cloths) may be paired with a conformable/flexible backing material to increase contact pressure and/or conformity to the wheel surface.

One type of reconditioning element typically used for polishing and/or cleaning includes a flap of a textile, fabric or cloth material. The flap of material would typically have a socket therein for sleeve type engagement with a mounting rod. Generally, the flaps are of a substantially rectangular shape and the mounting rods extend only partially along an edge of the flaps such that the flaps extend beyond the distal ends of the mounting rods.

Flaps on mounting rods are particularly suitable for cleaning/polishing truck drive wheels which have a substantially recessed outer main surface/face. On rotation of the reconditioning assembly, the flaps extend outwardly from the rods to contact the outer rim wall of the main face/surface. At the same time, during polishing/cleaning the overhanging portions of the flaps are sandwiched between the distal ends of the mounting rods and the main face to thereby recondition the more recessed parts of the main face.

The reconditioning elements may alternatively be formed of flexible yet resilient pads. Such pads may also be suitable for cleaning/polishing type applications. Reconditioning pads are typically planar and bend against the wheel surface during cleaning/polishing. Their resilient nature typically allows them to maintain contact/pressure with wheel surface during polishing/cleaning. In some instances, the pads may include fingers to allow them to more readily conform to the wheel surface. This can improve, for example, cleaning/polishing of the rim or grooved areas. The pads are typically oriented such that the plane of the pads is offset from parallel to the axis of rotation of the reconditioning assembly. Typically the offset is such that on positioning of the apparatus, the pads bend in a direction substantially opposite the direction of rotation and do not scrunch up.

Another form of reconditioning element may include a brush with a plurality of substantially aligned resilient bristles. The brushes are typically mounted to the support arms such that the bristles are aligned in a direction offset from parallel to the axis of rotation of the reconditioning assembly. Like the pads, the bristles thereof typically bend against the wheel surface as the reconditioning assembly rotates. The nature of the offset is such that the bristles of each brush are encouraged to bend in the same direction (typically opposition the direction of rotation). The brushes may also include a cover covering the bristle members. The cover may be such that it covers only a wheel contacting side of the brush/bristles or alternatively may be sleeve type cover which covers the whole brush head. The cover may be formed of a textile, fabric or cloth material and may be reversible. The reversible nature of the cover can increase the usable life of the cover. Alternatively or additionally, different sides of the cover may have a different nature/function. For example, one side of the cover may be coated with a polishing compound and the other side left bare for less abrasive cleaning effect. The bristles of the brushes may also be of varying lengths to provide a different contact profile or level of contact pressure against the wheel surface.

In some instances, the apparatus may further include an alignment rod which extends along the axis of rotation of the reconditioning assembly. The alignment rod may be an extension of, or extend from, the shaft to which the hub is mounted. Typically, the alignment rod is configured for engagement with an alignment bracket which is temporarily mounted to a wheel. Engaging the alignment rod with the alignment bracket (which is fixed to the wheel surface) helps to ensure the reconditioning elements are positioned correctly against the wheel surface.

It will be appreciated that the reconditioning assembly may take a variety of forms and may not include a central hub and support arms. One alternate form has the reconditioning elements mounted to the outside surface of a barrel shaped member. Typically, in this form, the reconditioning elements would extend/protrude beyond the distal end of the barrel to contact the wheel surface. In a further variation, the support arms may have a hinged connection to a central support plate rather than a hub. Pivoting of the support arms on the central support plate providing extension/retraction of the support arms.

In any case, it will be appreciated that, the reconditioning elements are typically releasably attachable to the reconditioning assembly. The releasable attachment permits replacement of old or worn reconditioning elements. It will also be appreciated that mounting of the reconditioning elements may by facilitated by a range of different types of mounting brackets/members/rods.

The height of the reconditioning assembly is also typically adjustable to allow leveling with the wheel to be reconditioned. Generally, the trolley mounted base includes a scissor lift mechanism to adjust the height of the reconditioning assembly. The apparatus may also have a control unit (e.g. including an electronic processing unit, microcomputer, microcontroller etc.) configured to control the height and/or rotation of the polishing assembly based on input received from a user. In some forms, rotation of the reconditioning assembly and/or operation of lift mechanism may be actuated by a switch/trigger on a handle or other part of the trolley mounted base. The apparatus may also include a variable speed function (e.g. via use of a 3 phase motor) so that the speed of rotation of the reconditioning assembly may be optimised/altered depending on the nature of the reconditioning task and/or wheel size/type.

Generally, the nature of the apparatus and the reconditioning elements is such that contact is maintained with the wheel surface during reconditioning without significant effort from the operator. For example, once the apparatus is in position, the operator does not need to strenuously force the apparatus against the wheel surface to maintain contact against the wheel surface.

One particular form of the apparatus is shown in FIGS. 1-18. The apparatus (1) is for reconditioning truck wheels and in particular for polishing/cleaning truck wheels. The wheel polisher/cleaner (1) includes a trolley mounted base (2) and a reconditioning assembly in the form of a barrel (3) with three equi-spaced polishing/cleaning elements (4A, 4B, 4C). The barrel is mounted to a shaft driven by a motor housed in a housing (5) of the base (2). As such operation of the motor rotates the barrel (3). It will be appreciated that in other forms, a motor may not be required/included and the barrel rotated manually. The barrel may also be mounted directly to the motor armature.

The barrel member (3) is a nonagonal prism having several flat panel surfaces which connect to form the barrel wall (6). It will be appreciated that the barrel may take a number of forms. For example, the barrel may be cylindrical or may be hexagonal, square or triangular prism shaped or the like, or may have a conical or tapered shape.

Polishing/cleaning element holders (e.g. 7A, 7B, 7C) are attached to every third panel and allow mounting of the cleaning/polishing elements (e.g. 4A, 4B, 4C). The elements may therefore be easily interchanged when worn. It will be appreciated that the polishing/cleaning element holders may also be interchanged allowing for other cleaning/polishing element types to be mounted, such as, for example, different sized or shaped cleaning/polishing elements.

To assist in alignment of the polishing/cleaning elements, laser alignment guides (12) may be included to project light markers onto the wheel to be cleaned.

The barrel (3) may be elevated to different heights to allow for cleaning/polishing of different sized wheels. In the example of the figures, gas struts (8) connected between the housing (5) and a scissor lift leg arrangement (9) operates to raise/lower the barrel. It will be appreciated that in other forms the barrel may be raised/lowered by other means (e.g. hydraulic arms, springs).

In FIGS. 1 to 4 the attached polishing/cleaning elements are in the form of planar pads (4A). In some forms, the polishing/cleaning pads may include fingers cut therein to aid in conformation to the wheel surface (not shown). As shown in the figures, the plane of the pads (4A) extend perpendicular to the outer surface of the barrel and slightly offset from parallel to the axis of rotation of the barrel (about 20°). The ends of the pads (10) extend beyond the distal end of the barrel (3) to contact the wheel surface. The pads are typically flexible yet resilient such that they can bend against and substantially maintain contact/pressure with the wheel surface during polishing/cleaning.

Another embodiment is shown in FIGS. 5 to 11 wherein the cleaning/polishing elements are cloth flaps (4B). The flaps are attached substantially tangentially to the outer surface of the rotor barrel and typically sit or hang flaccid when the barrel is not rotating (although this is not shown in the figures where the flaps appear rigid). With rotation of the barrel (3), the flaps extend outwardly form the barrel to contact the wheel rim surface. The centrifugal force on the flaps (4B) encourages cleaning/polishing contact with the wheel rim surface. A portion of the flaps (20) also typically overhangs the distal end of the barrel and is sandwiched between the barrel and the wheel surface such that the main face is also cleaned/polished. The flaps are particularly suitable for cleaning/polishing drive wheels. It will be appreciated that the flap material may vary and may be any textile/fabric/cloth.

FIGS. 12 to 18 show one particular example wherein the cleaning/polishing elements are bristled members covered by a cloth sleeve (30). The combination of the bristles and sleeve covers (30) form a substantially resilient “pad” (4C). The cleaning/polishing element holders position the “pads” (4C) beyond the distal end of the barrel (3) to contact the wheel surface. The planes of the “pads” (4C) are offset from parallel to the axis of rotation of the barrel such that the bristles themselves are encouraged to bend cooperatively (typically in a direction opposite the direction of rotation) against the wheel surface during cleaning/polishing. The offset of the pads is also such that a greater portion of the wheel surface is contacted during rotation. For example, the diagonal of a substantially square “pad” (4C) can provide a greater radial contact with the wheel surface than the width or length of the pad.

A further variation of the apparatus is shown in FIGS. 19 to 25. The apparatus, (100), as with the previous embodiments, includes a trolley mounted base (102) and a reconditioning assembly (103) rotatably mounted to the base (102). However, in this form, rather than a barrel, the reconditioning assembly (103) includes a central triangular hub (104) and three support arms (105) which extend telescopically from the hub (104). The hub is mounted to a shaft (109) rotated by a drive means (e.g. electric motor). FIG. 21 illustrates a cross sectional view of the apparatus (100) showing one example of shaft engagement with drive means (110) and central hub (104). The trolley mounted base (102) also includes handles (120) to assist with maneuvering of the apparatus.

The reconditioning elements (for example flaps as in FIGS. 19 and 20, or brushes as in FIGS. 21 to 25) are mounted to the distal ends of the support arms (105). The support arms (105) are of a rigid/inflexible nature and may be adjusted by extension from, or retraction into, the hub (104). Once the support arms (105) are adjusted to a desired length, screw type fasteners (106) are tightened to secure the support arms at that length. As such, this variation of the reconditioning assembly is more readily adapted for use with different sized wheels.

FIGS. 19 to 21 illustrate the apparatus configure with reconditioning elements that are flaps (107) of material (e.g. towel/cloth) mounted to the support arms (105) using mounting rods (108). The mounting rods (108) extend in a direction parallel to the rotation of the reconditioning assembly. It will be appreciated that in other forms, the mounting rods may not be included or may be part of the polishing elements. The mounting rods are received within sockets in the flaps extend only partially along an edge of the flaps such that the flaps extend beyond the distal ends of the mounting rods. The flaps (107) may be fixed or free to rotate about the mounting rods (108) so as to provide improved contact with or conformity to the wheel surface.

FIGS. 22 to 25 illustrate the apparatus (100) configured with brushes (118) mounted to the ends of the support arms (105). The bristles (119) of the brushes (118) extend in a direction that is offset from parallel to the access of rotation. The offset is such that the bristles bend in a direction opposite to the direction of rotation. However, it will be appreciated that the offset angle may vary. It will be appreciated that the bristles may also be used in conjunction with a cover which may be coated with a polishing or cleaning compound. For example, the apparatus (100) may be used with covers having a softer compound at first instance to clean the wheel and thereafter used with covers having a harder compound to polish the wheel.

One example of cover usage is shown in FIGS. 30 to 33, wherein a cover or cover pad (200) is shown which covers only a wheel contacting portion of the brush/bristles. The bristles are arranged in a substantially rectangular array and the cover covers one side of the array (wheel contacting side) as well as the tips of the bristles. The cover (200) is typically reversible. This provides an extended life for the cover as it may be reversed when one side is worn out. Alternatively or additionally, different sides (201, 202) of the cover (200) may have a different nature/function. For example, one side (201) of the cover may be coated with a polishing compound and the other side (202) left bare for a less abrasive cleaning effect. In this example, the cover (200) is attached to the brush head using a hook and loop fastener (e.g. Velcro). The cover is releasably attached to bristles using a loop strap (203) which loops around the array of bristles, as well as via an end strip (204) which is fastened to the brush head support (205). It will be appreciated that other attachment methods for the cover may be used.

Also shown in FIGS. 22 to 25 is an alignment rod (111) which extends from the shaft (109). The alignment rod (111) is configured to engage with an alignment bracket (112) which is temporarily mounted to a wheel (115). The tip of alignment rod (111) is shaped to fit within recess (114) of the alignment bracket (112). Once the tip is inserted, the reconditioning elements are aligned with the wheel surface. It will be appreciated that the recess (114) of the bracket (112) is typically configured to be centrally located with respect to the wheel (115) the bracket is mounted to the wheel. After cleaning/polishing the alignment bracket (112) can be removed from the wheel by releasing screw fasteners (116). It will be appreciated that the alignment bracket is typically attachable to the wheel surface via engagement with truck wheel bolts.

It will be appreciated that the reconditioning assembly may take a variety of forms. In other variations, such as those shown in FIGS. 26 to 29, the support arms are not locked at a specific length but rather extend from the central hub with rotation of the assembly (typically via centrifugal force on the arms).

In the example of FIGS. 26 and 27, the support arms (305) freely telescope in central hub (304). The centrifugal force resulting from the rotation of the hub (304) provides extension of the support arms (305) and thus also encourages contact of the reconditioning elements against the wheel surface. In order to ensure synchronised extension of each of the support arms (305) (and therefore equi-radial positioning of the reconditioning elements), the support arms (305) are mechanically linked to each other using a slotted plate (308) that freely rotates about the drive shaft (309) axis. Each support arm (305) is constrained via connection with a pin/bolt (311) that passes through a respective slot (310) in the plate (308). It will be appreciated that the slotted plate may take a variety of alternate shapes/forms provided it maintains synchronized and coordinated movement of the support arms (i.e. to provide equal extension of the arms (305)). FIG. 26 shows support arms (305) in a retracted state whilst FIG. 27 shows the support arms extended (305).

Another variation on the reconditioning assembly is shown in FIGS. 28 and 29. Here, the hub takes the form of a central triangular mounting plate (404) with hingedly connected triangular (405) plates which form the support arms. Pivoting movement of the support arm plates (405) provides for the extended and retracted states of the support arms. With rotation of the assembly the support arm plates pivot to the extended position due the centrifugal force of the rotation. Again a slotted plate (408) ensures synchronized and coordinated movement of the support arms plates (405). FIG. 28 shows support arm plates (405) in a retracted state whilst FIG. 29 shows them in the extended state. Also shown in FIGS. 28 and 29 are mounting rods (409) secured to the distal ends of the support arm plates (405).

It will be appreciated that in both the examples shown in FIGS. 26 to 29, and/or other variations where a centrifugal force is relied upon for extension of the support arms, a spring mechanism may be included to assist with retraction of the support arms once the reconditioning assembly stops rotating. For example the support arms may be spring biased in the retracted configuration such that the arms automatically retract in the absence of a significant centrifugal force i.e. when rotation slows/stops. It will also be appreciated that in general, spring or spring and damper devices may be used to regulate/modify the extension and/or retraction of the support arms.

Typically, use of the apparatuses as described herein (e.g. 1, 100) may be as follows. An operator first moves the apparatus into position using handles on the trolley mounted base. Once adjacent to a wheel, the height of the reconditioning assembly is adjusted to meet the level of the wheel (for example, this may be via a control mechanism whereby the handle is lifted or pushed down). In some forms, the reconditioning assembly may also be locked at a specific height. A liquid or paste abrasive may be applied to the wheel surface before cleaning/polishing. Once at the required height the reconditioning assembly is positioned such that the reconditioning elements contact the wheel (although this may not be the case if spraying a coating). Rotation of reconditioning assembly is then activated via the handle controller which sends a signal to the motor. The reconditioning assembly rotates and the reconditioning elements recondition (e.g. polish/clean) the wheel.

After reconditioning/polishing/cleaning of the wheel is complete, the motor is disabled and the apparatus wheeled away from the wheel. It will be appreciated that due to the nature of the apparatus, the reconditioning elements and their orientation, once the apparatus is in the correct position it does not need to be strenuously forced/pressed against the wheel surface by the operator.

The apparatus as described herein provides for quick and easy reconditioning of vehicle wheels without having to remove the wheels from the vehicle. Furthermore operation of the apparatus does not require significant effort from the operator making reconditioning wheels a less strenuous activity. The interchangeable reconditioning elements allow for a range of reconditioning tasks to be performed and reconditioning of a range of wheel types. The adjustable height and support arms also allow reconditioning of different wheel sizes and wheels on different sized vehicles.

Optional embodiments of the present invention may also be said to broadly consist in the parts, elements and features referred to or indicated herein, individually or collectively, in any or all combinations of two or more of the parts, elements or features, and wherein specific integers are mentioned herein which have known equivalents in the art to which the invention relates, such known equivalents are deemed to be incorporated herein as if individually set forth.

Although some preferred embodiments have been described in detail, it should be understood that various changes, substitutions, and alterations can be made by one of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope of the present invention.

It will be appreciated that various forms of the invention may be used individually or in combination.

Claims

1. An apparatus for reconditioning wheels, the apparatus comprising: a trolley mounted base; anda reconditioning assembly rotatably mounted to the base, the reconditioning assembly including at least one reconditioning element.

2. An apparatus as claimed in claim 1, further including a drive means configured to rotate the reconditioning assembly.

3. An apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the reconditioning assembly includes a plurality of reconditioning elements.

4. An apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the reconditioning elements are polishing or cleaning elements.

5. An apparatus as claim in claim 1, wherein the plurality of reconditioning elements are circumferentially spaced about the axis of rotation of the reconditioning assembly.

6. An apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein each reconditioning element is mounted to a respective support arm extending from or attached to a central hub of the reconditioning assembly.

7. The apparatus as claimed in claim 6, wherein the central hub is mounted to a shaft rotated by the drive means.

8. An apparatus as claimed in claim 6, wherein the radial positioning of each reconditioning element, with respect to the axis of rotation of the reconditioning assembly, is adjustable via movement, extension, retraction, rotation or adjustment of the support arms.

9. The apparatus as claimed in claim 6, wherein the support arms are adjustable in length.

10. The apparatus as claimed in claim 6, wherein the support arms are moveable between extended and retracted states via telescopic engagement with the central hub.

11. The apparatus as claimed in claim 6, wherein the support arms are hingedly mounted to the central hub, and pivoting movement of the support arms adjusts the radial positioning of the reconditioning elements.

12. The apparatus as claimed in claim 6, wherein the apparatus includes a linker connecting the support arms, the linker configured to ensure synchronized and/or coordinated movement of the support arms.

13. The apparatus as claimed in claim 12, wherein the linker is a slotted plate permitted to rotate with respect to the axis of rotation of the reconditioning assembly, and each support arm is pivotally linked to a respective slot in the plate.

14. The apparatus as claimed in claim 6, wherein the support arms are non-fixedly connected with the central hub such that during rotation of the reconditioning assembly, the centrifugal force provided by rotation of the reconditioning assembly leads to movement of the support arms to an extended position wherein the radial extension the reconditioning elements is increased.

15. The apparatus as claimed in claim 14, wherein the reconditioning assembly includes a spring mechanism which biases the support arms in a retracted configuration.

16. The apparatus as claimed in claim 6, wherein the support arms are inflexible.

17. The apparatus as claimed in claim 2, wherein the drive means includes a motor.

18. The apparatus as claimed in claim 6, wherein each reconditioning element is mounted to a respective support arm via a mounting rod, the mounting rod extending in a direction substantially parallel to the axis of rotation of the reconditioning assembly

19. The apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one reconditioning element includes a flap of material.

20. The apparatus as claimed in claim 18, wherein the at least one reconditioning element includes a flap of material with a socket therein for sleeve type engagement with the mounting rod.

21. The apparatus as claimed in claim 18, wherein the mounting rod extends only partially along an edge of the flap such that the flap extends beyond the distal end of the mounting rod.

22. The apparatus as claimed in claim 19, wherein the flap is formed of a textile, fabric or cloth material.

23. The apparatus as claimed in claim 19, wherein the flap is of substantially rectangular shape.

24. The apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the reconditioning element includes a brush.

25. The apparatus as claim in claim 24, wherein the brush includes a plurality of substantially aligned resilient bristles.

26. The apparatus as claimed in claim 25, wherein the bristles are aligned in a direction offset from parallel to the axis of rotation of the reconditioning assembly.

27. The apparatus as claimed in claim 25, wherein the reconditioning element includes a cover to cover all or part of the bristles.

28. The apparatus as claimed in claim 27, wherein the cover is formed of a textile, fabric or cloth material.

29. The apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the apparatus further includes an alignment rod which extends along the axis of rotation of the reconditioning assembly.

30. The apparatus as claimed in claim 29, wherein the alignment rod is configured for engagement with an alignment bracket, the alignment bracket being configured to releasably engage a wheel.

31. The apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the height of the reconditioning assembly is adjustable.

32. The apparatus as claimed in claim 31, wherein the trolley mounted base include a scissor lift mechanism to adjust the height of the reconditioning assembly.

33. The apparatus as claimed in claim 1 further including a control unit configured control the height and/or rotation of the reconditioning assembly based on input received form a user.

34. A reconditioning element configured for an apparatus as claimed in claim 1.

35. A reconditioning element for a reconditioning apparatus, the reconditioning element comprising: a brush having array of bristles;a cover configured to cover at least a first side of the array.

36. A reconditioning element as claimed in claim 35, wherein the cover is configured to additionally cover the tips of the bristles.

37. A recondition element as claimed in claim 35, wherein the array of bristles is a substantially rectangular array.

38. A reconditioning element as claimed in claim 35, wherein the cover is releasably attachable to the bristles.

39. A reconditioning element as claimed in claim 35, wherein the cover is releasably attachable to the bristles via a strap which loops around the array.

40. A reconditioning element as claimed in claim 35, wherein the element is for polishing and/or cleaning.

41. A reconditioning element for a reconditioning apparatus, the reconditioning element including a flap of material, the flap of material including a socket therein for receiving a mounting rod of the apparatus.