This document discusses systems designed to obviate and reduce sawdust, dirt and other accumulations in enclosed areas on mobile equipment. This disclosure relates to a system designed to reduce contaminant accumulation on mobile equipment, specifically in enclosed areas, such as under the cab of the equipment, in enclosed panel areas, or other areas of the equipment, which might be hard to access without removing guarding.
The following paragraphs are not an admission that anything discussed in them is prior art or part of the knowledge of persons skilled in the art. Currently, with mobile equipment, easy-to-access areas may be relatively easily monitored and maintained. Unfortunately, it is difficult to maintain and clean enclosed areas on mobile equipment. Dust and other organic materials can accumulate, posing a fire hazard. The time it takes to remove and inspect these enclosed areas is not feasible for some operations.
The mobile wash systems disclosed herein would remediate the above concerns. The systems here may be used on mobile and stationary equipment, and other types of plant equipment, including equipment of offshore oil and gas platforms, maritime vessels, and others, and more generally any kind of motorized or mechanical equipment with internal areas that accumulate dust and dirt.
A wash system designed for areas on mobile equipment is disclosed. The system may reduce dust/dirt and other accumulation around enclosed areas. The system when installed, may target areas that would only be accessible by removing panels, seats or other major components.
A washing manifold, stainless steel or black pipe, may be installed on enclosed/confine spaces on mobile/heavy duty equipment, to eliminate dirt, dust and another contaminant buildup. Pressure washer nozzles may be installed on the manifold, for example running parallel or in series. The system may be supplied water or air, depending on the consumer's preference.
Nozzle size may vary, pending on pressure washer being used. Nozzle size may be matched with pump rate, for example gallons per minute (GPM), to achieve desired pressure.
The system may be used in conjunction with a pressure washer and/or air supply. The system may be used with pressure washers and/or air, and may be adaptable for winter and summer conditions. The system is designed to reduce fire risk, while reducing maintenance costs.
An apparatus is disclosed comprising: mobile equipment that defines an area in which one more of dirt, dust, and contaminants accumulate during use; a manifold mounted in the area; a plurality of pressure washer nozzles that are connected to the manifold and each directed to spray washer fluid to dislodge dirt, dust, and contaminants that has accumulated in the enclosed area during use; and a high-pressure washer fluid supply line connected to the manifold.
A method is disclosed comprising supplying high-pressure washer fluid to a high-pressure washer fluid supply line mounted to mobile equipment, in which the high-pressure supply line is connected to a manifold, which mounts a plurality of pressure washer nozzles located within an area of the mobile equipment, such that the high-pressure washer fluid is ejected from the plurality of pressure washer nozzles to dislodge dirt, dust, and contaminants that have accumulated in the area during use.
A wash system for mobile equipment is disclosed comprising: a manifold; a plurality of pressure washer nozzles; a high-pressure washer fluid supply line; and a quick-connect fitting on the high-pressure supply line for connection to an external washer fluid supply; in which the manifold and plurality of pressure washer nozzles comprise area mounting parts and are structured to mount within an area of the mobile equipment where dirt, dust, and contaminants accumulate during use of the mobile equipment.
An enclosed mobile wash system may comprise multiple washing manifolds, for example comprising metal such as stainless steel, grade 304, 316SS, 40SS, 326, SCH40 40S, and black pipe grade A or grade 8, and for example comprising metal nozzles such as stainless-steel washing nozzles (which may vary in size to match pump GPM). The nozzles may be matched based on required outlet pressure, for example varying from number 2-6 nozzle size, 4 wire high pressure supply lines and a high pressure quick connect. The manifolds, nozzles and high-pressure lines may vary in size and length. This may allow the system to be installed on a variety of equipment, fabricated to meet the requested requirements.
Enclosed panels may be removed on mobile units, providing a user with access for installation. During installation, the manifold may be mounted and secured in a suitable fashion such as with one or more of tube clamps, bolts or welding, into place. High-pressure nozzles may be directed at areas of dirt, dust and other material accumulation. The orientation of each nozzle may be adjustable to target certain areas as desired. The supply line may be routed, mounted and secured with tube clamps or other suitable mechanisms.
The initial operation may comprise the following stages. An operator may install a supply line to a quick connect fitting. Once installed and the pressure washer/air system is actuated, pressurized water or air enters the system. A selector valve (if present) may be actuated to direct the fluids into the desired manifold or set of manifolds. All fluid may pass through a high-pressure filter. The water/air may then be directed through the manifold, exiting the high-pressure nozzles. Water/air targets and sprays the areas of accumulation, removing accumulation.
The disclosed systems were designed after many years of trying to resolve dirt and dust accumulation in confined areas on loaders and forklifts. Various areas where dust and dirt accumulation occur within mobile equipment are normally only accessible by removing major components. Initial installation may be time consuming, however, once completed may eliminate future risk exposure and manning. The system was designed to utilize existing pressure washers and air systems. The supply manifold may be constructed from metal (such as steel), hydraulic lines, pressure wash nozzles and angled fittings. The installer may assess areas of accumulation, installing the system and directing the nozzles at the general areas that accumulate dirt, debris, and contaminants. Once the system has been installed, an operator of mechanics may easily attach the device to an external washer fluid supply. Quick connect fittings may be installed outside the machine, connecting pressurized water or air to the supply manifold(s).
An apparatus is also disclosed comprising: equipment that defines an enclosed area in which one more of dirt, dust, and contaminants accumulate during use; a manifold mounted in the enclosed area; a plurality of pressure washer nozzles that are connected to the manifold and each directed to spray washer fluid to dislodge dirt, dust, and contaminants that has accumulated in the enclosed area during use; and a high-pressure washer fluid supply connector. The connector may be on a high-pressure washer fluid supply line connected to the manifold.
A wash system for equipment is disclosed comprising: a manifold; a plurality of pressure washer nozzles; and a quick-connect fitting for connection to an external washer fluid supply; in which the manifold and plurality of pressure washer nozzles comprise enclosed area mounting parts and are structured to mount within an enclosed area of the equipment where dirt, dust, and contaminants accumulate during use of the equipment. The connector may be on a high-pressure washer fluid supply line connected to the manifold.
The systems here may be used on mobile and stationary equipment, and other types of plant or facility equipment, including equipment of offshore oil and gas platforms, maritime vessels, wood-processing facilities and saw mills, industrial, commercial, and residential facilities, and others, including computer systems, and more generally any kind of motorized or mechanical equipment with internal areas that accumulate dust and dirt. The connector may be on a high-pressure washer fluid supply line connected to the manifold.
The present disclosure pertains to a novel wash manifold system that may use stainless steel pipes and high-pressure rated plastic pipes for efficient and targeted cleaning applications. The wash manifold system may incorporate a series of pipes, strategically designed and arranged to deliver pressurized cleaning fluids to specific areas. The selection of the appropriate pipe materials may be crucial to ensure optimal performance, durability, and resistance to high pressure.
For stainless steel pipes, the wash manifold system may include various sizes up to 3 inches, adhering to industry-standard sizing based on nominal pipe size (NPS) and pipe schedule. The available stainless steel pipe sizes, up to 3 inches, that can be utilized in the wash manifold system include ⅛ inch (NPS 0.125), ¼ inch (NPS 0.25), ⅜ inch (NPS 0.375), ½ inch (NPS 0.5), ¾ inch (NPS 0.75), 1 inch (NPS 1), 1¼ inch (NPS 1.25), 1½ inch (NPS 1.5), 2 inches (NPS 2), 2½ inches (NPS 2.5), and 3 inches (NPS 3). The stainless-steel pipes utilized in the system are available in various grades, including 304 stainless steel known for its excellent corrosion resistance, 316 stainless steel offering enhanced resistance to corrosive agents and higher temperatures, and 40SS stainless steel providing increased strength and durability for high-pressure applications. Other sizes larger or smaller than as stated may be used, as well as other materials.
In addition to stainless steel pipes, the wash manifold system may incorporate high-pressure rated plastic pipes for specific applications. These plastic pipes may be designed to withstand elevated pressure levels and offer advantages such as corrosion resistance and lightweight construction. The high-pressure rated plastic pipes utilized in the wash manifold system include PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride), CPVC (Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride), and PE (Polyethylene). PVC is known for its durability and resistance to chemical corrosion, CPVC offers enhanced temperature resistance, and PE provides excellent chemical resistance, durability, and flexibility.
By incorporating stainless steel pipes of various grades, including 304 stainless steel, 316 stainless steel, and 40SS stainless steel, along with high-pressure rated plastic pipes such as PVC, CPVC, and PE, the wash manifold system may ensure optimal performance, durability, and resistance to high-pressure cleaning operations. The unique combination of these pipe materials in the present disclosure provides a versatile and reliable solution for targeted cleaning applications in various industrial settings.
In various embodiments, there may be included any one or more of the following features: A pump connected to supply washer fluid to the high-pressure washer fluid supply line. A washer fluid supply connected to the high-pressure washer fluid supply line. The washer fluid supply is external to the mobile equipment. The washer fluid supply comprises water or air. The high-pressure supply line has a washer fluid supply connector. The washer fluid supply connector comprises a quick-connect fitting. The washer fluid supply connector is mounted to the mobile equipment external to the mobile equipment. The supply of fluid passes through a filter, such as a high-pressure filter, before entering the manifold. The nozzles may be rotary or rotating nozzles. The manifold is connected to the area using magnets. The high-pressure washer fluid supply line comprises a fluid filter. The manifold is connected to supply washer fluid to the plurality of pressure washer nozzles in parallel or in series. A plurality of manifolds, each having a plurality of pressure washer nozzles, and each connected to the high-pressure supply line. The mobile equipment defines a plurality of enclosed or exposed areas; and each of the plurality of enclosed or exposed areas contains one or more of the plurality of manifolds and respective plurality of pressure washer nozzles. The enclosed area is accessible by one or more of guarding, panels, or seats. The mobile equipment comprises a loader or lifter. The mobile equipment comprises a loader, a lifter, a grain combine, a tractor, a plow, a harvester, a telehandler, a seed drill, a rake, a harrow, a hay baler, a grader, a mining truck, a mining shovel, a bulldozer, an excavator, a drill rig, a drag line, a crane, a boat, a forest machine, a skidder, a winch assist, a train car, a train engine, a rail. The manifold is connected to the area using one or more of magnets, fasteners, welding, and adhesive. the area comprises a windshield or window. The plurality of pressure washer nozzles are adjustable about a range of angular positions to aim in predetermined directions. The plurality of pressure washer nozzles are adjustable about a range of spray pattern between 0 and 80 degrees, for example equal to or about 65 degrees. The plurality of pressure washer nozzles are oriented between 20 and 32 inches the area. The plurality of pressure washer nozzles are oriented to overlap, with adjacent of the plurality of pressure washer nozzles, in spray pattern. The high-pressure washer fluid supply line is connected to provide washer fluid at 500 psi or greater. A kit comprising the manifold and plurality of pressure washer nozzles. The high pressure washer fluid supply line comprises one or more of a selector valve, and a fitting, having plural outlets that comprise a first outlet connected to the first manifold and a second outlet connected to the second manifold. The manifold comprises a plurality of manifolds, each mounted in different areas of the mobile equipment in which one more of dirt, dust, and contaminants accumulate during use. The manifold is connected to supply washer fluid to the plurality of manifolds in parallel or in series. The area comprises an enclosed area of the mobile equipment. One or more of the manifolds, the plurality of pressure washer nozzles, and the high-pressure supply line comprise metal. The manifold is connected to the area using tube clamps. Prior to supplying the high-pressure washer fluid, connecting the high-pressure supply line to a washer fluid supply that is external to the mobile equipment. After supplying the high-pressure washer fluid, disconnecting the high-pressure supply line from the washer fluid supply. Prior to supplying the high-pressure washer fluid, installing the manifold and plurality of pressure washer nozzles within the enclosed area. Allowing the mobile equipment to cool down over a predetermined period of time prior to providing high-pressure washer fluid to the manifold. The manifold comprises a plurality of manifolds, each mounted in different areas of the mobile equipment in which one more of dirt, dust, and contaminants accumulate during use. Using one or more of a selector valve or branched fitting to provide high-pressure washer fluid to the plurality of manifolds.
The foregoing summary is not intended to summarize each potential embodiment or every aspect of the subject matter of the present disclosure. These and other aspects of the device and method are set out in the claims.
Embodiments will now be described with reference to the FIGURES, in which like reference characters denote like elements, by way of example, and in which:
Immaterial modifications may be made to the embodiments described here without departing from what is covered by the claims.
Mobile equipment includes machinery that is capable of moving on its own, whether by wheels, tracks, or rails. One of the most common types of mobile equipment is heavy duty machinery. Heavy duty machinery typically contains enclosed areas, which may house diesel engines, hydraulic lines, and other components essential for operation. Since mobile equipment and heavy-duty machinery are often operating in undeveloped areas, such as construction sites and oilfield leases, they are prone to becoming quite dirty, whether by accumulation of mud, soot, dust, grasses, sawdust, or other contaminants. Keeping the enclosed areas of heavy-duty equipment clean may be difficult, but may be essential to prolong the lifespan of the equipment and reduce the risks of fires.
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Referring to Tables 1 and 2 below, a desired fluid pressure may be set by varying various structural characteristics of apparatus 11. Fluid pressure may be measured in pounds per square inch (PSI), and may be varied by changing the gallons per minute (GPM) of the pump, the size of the nozzle orifice of the spray end 20A of the pressure washer nozzle 20.
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Spray Nozzle Options
Various spray nozzles may be used, including:
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The mobile equipment may be needed to cool down over a predetermined period of time prior to providing high-pressure washer fluid to the manifold. The engine may require a cooldown period prior to operating water in system. Initial Temperature Drop (First 10-20%): After engine shutdown, an initial rapid temperature drop is observed. This can result in a decrease of approximately 10 20% in engine temperature within the first few minutes. The exact percentage drop can vary depending on factors such as engine size, operating temperature, and ambient conditions. Additional Temperature Drop: Following the initial temperature drop, the rate of cooldown gradually slows down. The engine's cooling rate becomes more gradual as time progresses. While it is challenging to provide precise figures, an estimate for the additional temperature drop can be around 12 degrees Celsius (1.8 3.6 degrees Fahrenheit) per minute. However, it's important to note that this rate can vary depending on factors such as engine size, cooling system design, and ambient conditions. Recommended minimum 30-minute cool down time.
The use of the system 10 may have various advantages.
Proactive Fire Risk Reduction: The system 10 may reduce the menace of equipment fires. The system may proactively address the root causes of fires by removing combustible materials before they lead to catastrophic failures. This significantly minimizes the chances of spontaneous combustion, electrical shorts, hydraulic line failure, and brake overheating. Enhanced Safety and Injury Prevention: Traditional cleaning methods often expose operators to high-risk scenarios when attempting to clean hard-to-reach areas. The system may ensure—operators' safety and reduces the risk of injuries. Additionally, improved windshield visibility enhances overall operational safety. Reduced Downtime, Increased Cleaning Frequency: Cleaning-related downtime is a thing of the past. Installing the system may expedite cleaning processes, transforming hours of labor into minutes. By removing the need for panel, fender, and seat removal, this innovative system not only saves time but also slashes cleaning labor costs.
Optimized Cooling Efficiency: Engines, transmissions, differentials, and other components dissipate a substantial amount of heat through convection. Beyond fire risk elimination, the system 10 may enhance convection efficiency by removing accumulated combustible materials. By maintaining optimal cooling efficiency, the system may contribute to the longevity and performance of your equipment.
The system 10 may be a cutting-edge system designed to address one of the most critical challenges facing the industry today: Equipment fires caused by combustible build-up and debris. Mobile equipment has engine components that operate at temperatures above the combustion point of wood, dust and flashpoint of engine and hydraulic oils. Additionally, electrical arc from failing components can be fire ignition points. The system may be engineered to eliminate combustible accumulation and drastically reduce the risk of equipment fires. These manifolds are magnetically attached in enclosed areas such as engine compartments and behind windshield guards (hard-to-reach spaces that have often been overlooked). No more struggling to clean these inaccessible areas, because if it's not easy, it won't get cleaned. And if it's not consistently cleaned, it is at risk of combusting
In the claims, the word “comprising” is used in its inclusive sense and does not exclude other elements being present. The indefinite articles “a” and “an” before a claim feature do not exclude more than one of the feature being present. Each one of the individual features described here may be used in one or more embodiments and is not, by virtue only of being described here, to be construed as essential to all embodiments as defined by the claims.
Number | Date | Country | Kind |
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3,117,192 | Dec 2021 | CA | national |
Number | Date | Country | |
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Parent | 18082443 | Dec 2022 | US |
Child | 18513920 | US |