FIELD OF INVENTION

The present invention relates to a vehicle with onboard cleaning apparatus. In particular the invention relates to a vehicle adapted to accommodate different modules of cleaning equipment, power sources, and herbicide spraying apparatus.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Outdoor public areas such as pavements, street malls, stadiums and footpaths become affected by undesirable matter such as discarded chewing gum, spillages, graffiti and weeds. These areas require cleaning to make them acceptable for public use. Cleaning apparatus is often required in inconvenient areas where mains power may not be available, or it is unsafe or inconvenient to have trailing mains cables. Generators are therefore required to power equipment. Suitable cleaning equipment is generally bulky and heavy, and therefore requires transportation to the desired location by a utility vehicle or trailer. Unloading of the apparatus is then required for use. High levels of safety are required in order to safeguard the personnel moving and using the equipment as well as the members of the public using the public areas.

A particular problem is the soiling of pavements and other similar surfaces by discarded chewing gum. The use of steam cleaners to remove gum adhered to a surface is known. Self-powered mobile gum removal vehicles are also known.

In Australian patent specification 2008100147, there is disclosed a gum removal vehicle that has a power generator to operate a steam cleaner. The steam cleaner has a nozzle for directing the steam onto the gum to dissolve the gum. There is also a vacuum generator with a nozzle to retrieve the cleaning residue and gum after steam treatment. The steam cleaner and vacuum nozzles are each attached to the steam generator and vacuum generator respectively by a hose. In use, when the operator moves around, the hoses can become snagged on parts of the vehicle body or on the power generator or steam generator inside the vehicle. The movement of the hoses is restricted due to the pillars supporting the roof of the rear compartment in which the generators are housed. This causes inconvenience for the operator as it effectively restricts the usable length of hose, the effective reach and the range of directions available. To circumvent this problem the operator may be tempted to pull on the hose, thus causing damage to the hose. The vehicle can be moved slightly, but this is time consuming and inconvenient since the generator should be switched off and the hose stowed for safety considerations. Alternatively the hoses can be disconnected and moved, or even manually repositioned about the vehicle body and generators without disconnection. Such manipulation can result in damage to the hose.

The gum removal vehicle disclosed in AU 2008100147 is used only to remove gum from pavements and footpaths.

OBJECT OF THE INVENTION

It is an object of the present invention to provide a vehicle with modular cleaning equipment which overcomes at least in part one or more of the above mentioned disadvantages.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one aspect the present invention broadly resides in a vehicle including a chassis and a body that has a compartment with one or more openings; said compartment is configured to mount one or more modular units wherein the modular units include a power generator unit, a vacuum unit, and a steam generating unit; wherein there are one or more conduits connectable to the vacuum unit or the steam generating unit to provide fluid communication between the unit and an outlet on the external surface of the body, said outlet is connectable to a hose or nozzle.

In another aspect the present invention resides in vehicle including a chassis and a body that has a compartment with one or more openings; said compartment is configured to mount one or more modular units wherein the modular units include a power generator unit, a vacuum unit, and a steam generating unit; wherein there are one or more conduits connectable to the vacuum unit or the steam generating unit to provide fluid communication between the unit and an outlet on the external surface of the body, said outlet is connectable to a hose or nozzle; wherein said vehicle further comprises one or more modular units selected from a power generator unit, a vacuum unit, and a steam generating unit.

Preferably the power generator unit is a petrol or diesel power generator. Alternatively the power generator unit may be an inverter.

Preferably the vehicle is equipped with apparatus adapted to introduce detergent or another cleaning agent to the generated steam to assist in gum removal.

In another aspect the present invention resides in a vehicle including a chassis and a body that has a compartment with one or more openings; said compartment is mounted with one or more modular units selected from a power generator unit, a vacuum unit, and a steam generating unit; wherein there are one or more conduits connectable to the vacuum unit or the steam generating unit to provide fluid communication between the unit and an outlet on the external surface of the body, said outlet is connectable to a hose or nozzle. Preferably there are two conduits. Preferably one conduit provides fluid communication between the vacuum unit and an outlet on the external surface of the vehicle body, and a second conduit provides fluid communication between the steam generating unit and an outlet on the external surface of the vehicle body.

Preferably an outlet on the external surface of the vehicle body is adapted to engage with a hose. Preferably an outlet is a female socket adapted to engage with a male connection on an end of a hose to form a coupling.

Preferably the hose is a flexible hose. Preferably the hose has a nozzle attachment at an end remote from the coupling for manually directing flow. Preferably the hose has a handle portion including manual flow control means. Preferably the flow control means is a trigger.

Preferably there are two outlets. Preferably each outlet is adapted to engage with a male connection on an end of a hose. Preferably one outlet is in fluid connection with the steam generator, and the other outlet is in fluid connection with the vacuum unit. Preferably the two outlets are in close proximity. Preferably the outlets are in close proximity and located on the rear bumper of the vehicle. Preferably there is a cover portion to cover the two outlets to protect them when not in use. Preferably the cover portion is a hinged flap.

Preferably the steam cleaning hose and the vacuum suction hose are combined in a single handle portion, the handle portion including triggers to control the steam and vacuum. The two hoses may be joined in parallel along some or all of their length, or can be integrally formed as a single length of hose.

Preferably the coupling between a hose and the outlet on the vehicle is adapted to engage and release quickly. Preferably the hose can be disengaged and stowed in the vehicle when not in use. Preferably the hose can be attached to the vehicle to allow quick, safe and easy stowage of the hose without having to disconnect the hose from the coupling on the exterior of the vehicle when repositioning the vehicle over a short distance. Preferably the hose can be attached to the vehicle by means of a clip.

In one form the compartment additionally houses a water hose adapted to provide rinsing water. Preferably the water hose is connected to a water tank in the vehicle. In a preferred form the hose is housed on a reel and the nozzle exits the vehicle through an opening in the rear bumper.

Preferably the vehicle is adapted to accommodate, transport and power cleaning apparatus selected from gum removal apparatus, steam cleaning apparatus, graffiti cleaning apparatus, vacuum apparatus, weed killing apparatus, or water blasting apparatus.

Preferably the vehicle is a motorized cart, such as a modified golf cart.

Preferably the vehicle is powered by electricity. Preferably the vehicle is a solar assisted electric vehicle. Preferably the vehicle is powered using a rechargeable acid battery. Alternatively the vehicle can be powered by battery, fuel cell, or any other suitable means.

Preferably the vehicle body has a roof. Preferably the vehicle body has a roof and solar panels are mounted on the roof. Preferably the solar panels cover the entire area of the roof. Preferably the solar panels are integral with the roof construction. Preferably the roof is fitted with clips for attaching tools such as brushes.

Preferably the vehicle chassis is raised to provide increased ground clearance to allow easy access over uneven terrain such as parks and gardens, and for access over kerbs. Preferably the vehicle has a second compartment to accommodate a driver. Optionally the second compartment may also accommodate a passenger. Preferably the second compartment includes one or two seats.

Preferably the second compartment has a non-slip floor surface.

Preferably the second compartment is fitted with one or two doors. Preferably the doors are PVC all weather doors. Preferably the doors are PVC curtains.

Preferably there is a screen between the second compartment and the compartment housing the module units, and this screen that allows air circulation between the compartments. Preferably the screen is made from steel mesh.

Preferably the driver's seat in the second compartment of the vehicle is fitted with an electronic safety seatbelt which prevents the vehicle from being moved without the seatbelt being fastened.

Preferably there is storage space behind the seat or seats in the second compartment. Preferably there is storage space underneath the floor of the first compartment. Preferably the storage space is accessible from outside the vehicle by a door on the side of the vehicle. In one form the storage space is in the form of one or more drawers. In one aspect the storage space can accommodate reservoirs for water, detergent, cleaning fluids, weed killer and the like.

Preferably the vehicle is fitted with LED high impact low energy lights on the rear bumper. Preferably the vehicle is fitted with a hazard warning system such as flashing lights. Preferably the flashing lights are LED lights. Preferably the vehicle is fitted with a reversing camera to aid reversing in busy public areas. Preferably the vehicle has one or more integral retractable barriers to provide a safe working environment within the extended barrier. Preferably the compartment adapted to mount the modular units is made from fibreglass, wood or metal, or combinations thereof. More preferably the rear compartment is made from metal, especially aluminium.

Preferably the openings in the compartment adapted to mount the modular units are fitted with one or more doors to protect the equipment inside, and act as sound insulation. Preferably the doors are roller doors. The one or more doors are preferably roller doors to provide ease of access in spatially restricted areas. Preferably the roller doors are fitted in aluminium guides. Preferably there are three doors on the compartment: one on each side, and one on the rear. Preferably the roller doors are used as advertising space.

In another form the doors of the first compartment are made of metal. Preferably the doors are made of aluminium. Preferably the doors are mounted in aluminium gas strut door frames. Preferably the aluminium doors are fitted with screens, such as LED screens or high definition television screens. A screen may be flush mounted in an aluminium door.

Preferably the compartment housing the module units is fitted with a clamping system to facilitate easy securing and removal of the module units. Preferably the clamping system is fitted to the base of the compartment. Preferably the clamping system is a quick release system such as a Stauff clamping system to allow easy and quick removal and installation of different module units.

Preferably the first compartment housing the module units has a compartment floor of timber or metal. More preferably the floor is made of metal. More preferably the floor is made of aluminium.

Preferably there are drainage holes in the compartment floor to drain liquid spills from the compartment.

Preferably the compartment is lined with flame retardant material. ln one aspect the module units can each be mounted on a fork lift skid to enable the module units to be removed and installed by a fork lift.

Module units include a petrol or diesel power generator, and a steam generator unit. Alternatively the power generator unit can be replaced by a hydrogen fuel cell or a rechargeable battery such as a lithium ion battery.

Preferably the vehicle includes a first aid kit and defibrillation equipment. The vehicle can also provide power to operate emergency lighting.

Preferably the vehicle includes one or more LED moving message board systems. Preferably the one or more LED moving message board systems are mounted at the front or at the rear of the vehicle. Preferably the vehicle also includes a Bluetooth proximity broadcast system that allows communication for public awareness or marketing purposes. Preferably the vehicle provides WiFi internet access. Preferably the vehicle includes facilities for media systems. In one form the vehicle includes facilities for marketing, promotional or advertising activities such as geomarketing and voucher download to smart phones.

In accordance with a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of advertising comprising: providing advertising space on a dynamically updatable display disposed on a vehicle, the dynamically updatable display being arranged to selectively display one or more of a plurality of advertisements, the selection of advertisement being dependent on both a location of the vehicle and an advertisement selection criteria.

In an embodiment the method further comprises receiving payment based on the advertisements being displayed and/or interacted with.

In an embodiment the payment is made by or on behalf of the corresponding advertiser and/or by or on behalf of one or more participants who interact with the advertisement. ln an embodiment the payment is one of a fixed fee or commission on sales.

In an embodiment the advertisement selection criteria is that the

advertisement to be displayed is classified in association with the current location of the vehicle.

In an embodiment the advertiser is a merchant and the advertisement selection criteria is that the advertisement to be displayed is classified in association with a particular merchant store that is within a vicinity of the vehicle, as determined from the location. The particular merchant store may be the store of a competitor of the advertising merchant, or may be the store of the advertising merchant itself.

In an embodiment the advertisement selection criteria is that the

advertisement to be displayed is classified in association with a particular time period.

In an embodiment the method further comprises selling the advertising space such that only one advertisement is capable of being displayed in association with a nominated classifier.

In an embodiment the method further comprises facilitating an advertiser bidding process such that the bidding advertiser who ranks highest based on certain criteria is allowed to display their advertisement in association with the nominated classifier.

In an embodiment the method further comprises facilitating an advertiser bidding process such that the bidding advertiser who pays the highest fee or commission on sales is allowed to list their advertisement in association with the nominated classifier.

In an embodiment the method further comprises selling the advertisements such that multiple advertisements are capable of being associated with a nominated classifier and whereby a quantum of payment offered or paid determines at least one of: prominence of the advertisement on the display; probability of a submitted advertisement being displayed; rate of an advertisement being displayed; and ranking on the display for advertisements.

In an embodiment one or more of the plurality of displayable advertisements comprises at least one of an offer for goods and services sold by the corresponding merchant.

In an embodiment the commission is calculated in dependence on a sale price of goods and/or services being sold as a result of the offer.

In an embodiment the vehicle is the steam cleaning vehicle according to the aforementioned aspects.

In accordance with a still further aspect of the present invention there is provided an advertising system comprising: a vehicle; a locating module operable to determine a current location of the vehicle; and a dynamically updatable display disposed on the vehicle for displaying advertisements, the dynamically updatable display operable to selectively display one of a plurality of advertisements dependent on the current location and an advertisement selection criteria.

In an embodiment the locating module comprises one of a GPS unit and a cellular locating device.

In an embodiment the vehicle is the cleaning vehicle according to the afore- described aspects.

In an embodiment the advertisement selection criteria is that the

advertisement to be displayed is classified in association with the current location of the vehicle.

In an embodiment the advertisement selection criteria is that the

advertisement to be displayed is classified in association with a particular merchant store located in a vicinity of the vehicle as determined from the location. In an embodiment the advertisement selection criteria is that the advertisement to be displayed is classified in association with a particular time period.

In an embodiment the displayable advertisements are merchant

advertisements and wherein one or more of the plurality of displayable

advertisements comprises at least one of an offer for goods and services sold by the corresponding merchant.

In an embodiment a condition of use is associated with the offer.

In an embodiment the condition of use is that the offer must be activated within a predefined time period of the offer being displayed by the vehicle.

In an embodiment the predefined time period is associated with a distance between the location of the vehicle and a location of a physical store in which the offered goods/services are sold.

In an embodiment the offer is activated by making an in-store purchase using an activation code associated with the offer. In an embodiment the offer is activated by wirelessly communicating an activation code associated with the offer to a remotely located processing system.

In an embodiment the offer is activated by wirelessly communicating with a communications module provided on the vehicle, using a portable communications device.

In an embodiment the vehicle further comprises a wireless communications module which is operable to communicate with a remotely located database in order to obtain data which allows the advertisements to be displayed.

In an embodiment the data identifies at least one of a time and location at which the advertisements are to be displayed. ln accordance with yet another aspect of the present invention there is provided an advertising system comprising: a vehicle; a wireless communication module disposed on the vehicle and operable to communicate with a participant communications device using a wireless communications protocol; and a messaging module operable to cause a message to be displayed to a participant in response to determining that a participant communications device that is within communicable range of the wireless communication module meets a message display criteria.

In an embodiment the participant communications device is a portable communications device operable to communicate with the wireless communications protocol using a short range wireless communications protocol.

In an embodiment the system further comprises a dynamically updatable display mounted on the vehicle operable to display the message.

In an embodiment the message display criteria is that the communications device has registered to receive an offer.

In an embodiment the message display criteria further comprises that a current location of the communications device is a location specified by an advertiser.

In an embodiment the message display criteria further comprises that a current location of the vehicle is a location specified by the advertiser.

In an embodiment the system further comprises a locating module disposed on the vehicle and which is operable to determine the current location.

In an embodiment the message is that the participant has won a prize or some other entitlement.

In an embodiment the prize is a discount on goods and/or services sold by a corresponding merchant. ln an embodiment the prize is that the customer is entitled to free goods and/or services.

In accordance with a further aspect there is provided a method of advertising comprising:

providing advertising space on a dynamically updatable moveable display, the dynamically updatable display being arranged to selectively display one or more of a plurality of advertisements, the selection being dependent on both a location of the display and an advertisement selection criteria.

In accordance with yet a further aspect of the invention there is provided an advertising system comprising:

a moveable display carrier;

a locating module operable to determine a current location of the moveable display carrier; and

a dynamically updatable display disposed on the moveable display carrier for displaying advertisements, the dynamically updatable display operable to selectively display one of a plurality of advertisements dependent on the current location and an advertisement selection criteria.

In accordance with another aspect of the invention there is provided an advertising system comprising:

a movable display carrier;

a wireless communication module disposed on the moveable display carrier and operable to communicate with a participant communications device using a communications protocol; and

a messaging module operable to cause a message to be displayed to a participant in response to determining that a participant communications device of the participant that is within communicable range of the wireless communication module meets a message display criteria.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In order that the present invention can be more readily understood reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings which illustrate a preferred embodiment of the invention and wherein:

Figure 1 is a diagrammatic side view of a preferred embodiment of the cleaning vehicle;

Figure 2 is a diagrammatic front view of the embodiment of Figure 1 ;

Figure 3 is a diagrammatic rear view of the embodiment of Figure 1 showing the rear door in a closed position;

Figure 4 is a diagrammatic rear view of the embodiment of Figure 1 with the rear door open showing the interior of the compartment;

Figure 5 is a side view of the embodiment of Figure 1 showing the conduits from the vacuum unit and the steam generating unit in phantom;

Figure 6 is a side view of the embodiment of Figure 1 showing the generator. Figure 7 is a plan view of the embodiment of Figure 1 ;

Figure 8 is a diagrammatic rear view of a second embodiment of a cleaning vehicle with the rear door open showing the interior of the rear compartment;

Figure 9 is a diagrammatic plan view of the rear compartment of a further embodiment of the cleaning vehicle;

Figure 10 is a diagrammatic side view of the embodiment of Figure 9;

Figure 1 is a schematic of an advertising system in accordance with an embodiment; Figure 12 is a block diagram showing components of the vehicle of Figure 11 ; and

Figure 13 is a block diagram showing components of the remote server of Figure 11.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

With reference to Figures 1 and 3 there is shown a cleaning vehicle (10) including a chassis (11) and a body (12). The chassis (11) is elevated to allow easy access over kerbs and rough ground such as in gardens and parks. The vehicle (10) has a rear compartment (13) enclosed by three plastic roller doors (14), one each on the back and two sides of the rear compartment (13). The roller doors (14) are shown in a closed configuration. The roller doors (14) can be used as an advertising medium.

The vehicle (10) also has a driver compartment (15) with two seats (16).

The vehicle (10) is an electrically powered vehicle such as an EG6043K

(Suzhou Eagle Electric Vehicle Manufacturing Co Ltd). The power is supplied from a battery (not shown) located under the seats (16) in the driver's compartment (15).

The rear compartment (13) and the driver's compartment (15) are separated by a steel mesh screen (25) to allow air circulation in the rear compartment (13). The seats are fitted with lap seat belts (20). The driver's seat belt is fitted with a safety electronic cut out to prevent the vehicle from moving when the seat belt is not fastened. A storage compartment (17) is located under the seats (16), and is accessible from outside the vehicle by a door (18) on the vehicle body (12). A storage compartment (31) is provided inside the front bumper (30). The driver compartment (15) can be protected from inclement weather by a PVC curtain (not shown), mounted in a curtain track (19) on either side of the vehicle (10).

The vehicle (10) is fitted with hazard lights (21). A rear mounted reversing camera (22) is linked to a screen (26) in the driver compartment (15). High impact LED tail lights (23) are fitted to the rear bumper (29).

The vehicle (10) is fitted with LED message boards (32) on the front and rear. The vehicle (10) is also fitted with a proximity communications device (33) to broadcast information and promote advertising.

A steam interlock (27) and a vacuum connection (28) are located on the rear bumper (29). A cover or flap (not shown) may be provided to cover the steam interlock (27) and vacuum connection (28) when not in use.

Figures 4 to 7 show the vehicle (10) with the roller doors (14) open to reveal the rear compartment (13) and the cleaning apparatus mounted therein. The rear compartment (13) has a floor (57) with holes (65) at each corner to allow for easy cleaning and drainage of spillages. The floor (57) is fitted with quick release clips (56), such as those made by Stauff, for securing modular units. The quick release clips ensure that the modular units are held in place securely, but allow quick and easy interchange of modules.

The compartment (13) is shown fitted with a petrol driven electricity generator or inverter (50), a steam generator (58) and a wet and dry vacuum cleaner (62). The generator (50) supplies electricity to power the vacuum cleaner (62) and the steam generator (58). The generator (50) is secured to the floor (57) of the compartment (13) by quick release clips (56). The generator (50) has an exhaust (54) protected by a shield (55) to protect operators from being burned. It is also fitted with an emergency stop button (51) and a residual current detector (RCD) (52). The vacuum cleaner (62) is secured to the floor (57) of the compartment (13) by quick release clips (56). The outlet (66) from the vacuum cleaner (62) is connected to a hose (64, shown in phantom) which passes through an aperture (63) in the floor (57) of the compartment (13). The hose (64) continues through a void (not shown) under the floor (57) of the compartment (13) to connect with the vacuum connection (28) located on the rear bumper (29). The hose (64) therefore acts as a conduit to allow access to suction from the vacuum cleaner (62) from outside the vehicle (10). A hose can be attached to the vacuum connection (28).

The steam generator (58) is also secured to the floor (57) of the compartment (13) by quick release clips (56). The steam outlet (67) from the steam generator (58) is connected to a pipe (61 , shown in phantom) which passes through an aperture (60) in the floor (57) of the compartment (13). The pipe (61) continues through a void (not shown) under the floor (57) of the compartment (13) to connect with the steam interlock (27) located on the rear bumper (29). The pipe (61) provides a conduit to allow access to the generated steam from outside the vehicle. A hose (not shown) can be attached to the steam interlock (27) and vacuum connector (28) on the rear bumper (29) of the vehicle (10). Preferably a hose is attached by means of a male connector. The hose may include two parallel conduits integrally formed to transport the steam and vacuum. The hose may have a handle portion. Trigger controls on the handle portion may be used to manage the flow of the steam and suction from the vacuum. Additionally a nozzle can be attached to the hose to direct flow. The nozzle may have a brush or scraper attachment at an end remote from the handle.

In one embodiment the steam from the steam generator (58) can be used to steam clean surfaces or sanitize areas such as public lavatories, bins and such like. In another embodiment, the steam generator (58) can be used in combination with the suction produced by the vacuum cleaner (62) so that the vacuum aspirates the residue after steam cleaning. The steam generator (58) can also be used in combination with detergent stored in a reservoir (59). The detergent can be introduced into the steam flow by a Venturi effect. The use of detergent and steam is particularly effective for removal of gum from surfaces. In use, the nozzle is positioned near the gum to be removed and steam is directed on to the gum by depressing a trigger in the handle to release steam. The vacuum is activated by depressing another trigger in the handle, and can then be used to remove the residue by suction and deposit it into a reservoir in the vacuum cleaner (62).

The steam generator (58) can also be used with a herbicide reservoir to spray herbicide onto weeds. In this embodiment the handle can be fitted with a nozzle with a funnel-shaped end (not shown) to place over individual weeds and direct the steam.. The steam generator (58) can be used as a thermal weed killer in combination with a chemical weed killer, such as a systemic herbicide, to totally eradicate the weeds. The herbicide can be introduced into the steam flow by a Venturi effect. The funnel-shaped nozzle (not shown) ensures that the herbicide is directed to where it is needed without wastage or exposing the operator to weed killing chemicals.

With reference to Figure 8 there is shown a cleaning vehicle (80) in accordance with a second embodiment of the invention. The rear compartment (81) of the cleaning vehicle (80) is fitted with a vacuum cleaner (82) and a water hose (83). The water hose (83) is attached to a water tank (84), and fitted on a hose reel (85). The water hose (83) is fitted with a hose nozzle (86) and can be used for rinsing. The water hose (83) may be routed through an aperture (not shown) on the rear bumper (87). The vacuum cleaner (82) is fitted with a vacuum hose (88). The vacuum hose (88) is routed under the floor (90) of the rear compartment (81) to a vacuum interlock (91) in the rear bumper (87). The rear compartment may also include apparatus for gum cleaning (not shown). Alternatively the gum cleaning apparatus may be housed under the floor (90) of the rear compartment (81). The gum cleaning apparatus preferably includes means for heating water in addition to means for introducing detergent or another suitable cleaning agent into the heated water to produce gum cleaning fluid. Gum cleaning fluid is routed to an interlock (92) in the rear bumper (87) through a suitable hose (93) mounted on a hose reel (94) ^' .

Removable hoses (not shown) may be fitted to the interlocks (91) and (92). A cover or flap (not shown) may be provided to cover the vacuum interlock (91) and cleaning fluid interlock (92) when not in use.

The rear compartment also houses a stainless steel rack (96) for storing and carrying accessories.

The rear compartment (81) and rear compartment floor (90) are preferably made from aluminium. Apparatus can be mounted on the vehicle floor using a clamping system to facilitate easy securing and removal of the apparatus. Preferably the clamping system is a quick release system such as a Stauff clamping system to allow easy and quick removal and installation of different module units.

The vehicle is fitted with safety features such as LED lights (97), and a reversing camera (89).

With reference to Figures 9 and 10 there is shown a further embodiment of the cleaning vehicle (100). The vehicle (100) includes a chassis (101) and a body (102). The vehicle (100) has a rear compartment (103) made of aluminium with an aluminium floor (104) and enclosed by three aluminium doors (105), one each on the two sides and back of the rear compartment (103). The aluminium doors (105) are mounted on gas struts (not shown), and the doors can each be fitted with a monitor or LED screen (106) for advertising and information distribution purposes. The vehicle (100) also has a driver compartment (107) with two seats (108). The rear compartment (103) and the driver's compartment (107) are separated by a steel mesh screen (109) to allow air circulation in the rear compartment (103). Battery packs (not shown) for powering the vehicle are accommodated in a space under the seats (108) in the driver's compartment ( 07).

A vented storage compartment (110) is located under the rear compartment floor (104), and is accessible from outside the vehicle by doors (112) on either side of the vehicle body (102). The storage compartment is fitted with sliding drawers (111) to accommodate gum removal apparatus (128). The storage compartment is also adapted to accommodate detergent containers (113) and an LPG gas bottle (114) to heat water. The detergent containers (113) and gas bottle (114) are connected to the gum removal apparatus (128) by conduits (133). The gum removal apparatus (128) generates gum removal fluid. This may conveniently be generated by heating water with a gas burner and introducing detergent. The resulting gum removal fluid is then transported by a hose (123) mounted on a hose reel (124).

The rear compartment (103) of the cleaning vehicle ( 00) is fitted with a water tank (115), a vacuum cleaner (116) and a water hose (117). There is an inverter (129) to provide power, and a stainless steel rack (130) for carrying accessories. The water hose (117) is attached to the water tank (115) and a pump (118) for rinsing purposes. The water hose (117) is fitted with a hose nozzle (119) and is mounted on a hose reel (127). The water hose (117) is routed under the floor (104) of the rear compartment (103) to an aperture (not shown) on the rear bumper (118). The vacuum cleaner (116) is fitted with a vacuum hose (120). The vacuum hose (120) is routed through the chassis (101) of the vehicle under the floor (104) of the rear compartment (103) to a vacuum interlock (121) in the rear bumper (118). The gum cleaning fluid is routed to an interlock (122) in the rear bumper ( 18) through the hose (123). A detachable hose (135) is fitted to the interlocks (121) and (122). Preferably the hose includes two parallel conduits integrally formed to transport the gum removal fluid and vacuum. The hose may have a handle portion and flow control means such as a trigger system to control the flow. A cover or flap (not shown) may be provided to cover the interlocks (121) and (122) when not in use.

The apparatus accommodated in the rear compartment (103) can be mounted on the vehicle floor using a clamping system, such as a quick release clamping system, to facilitate easy securing and removal of the apparatus.

The cleaning vehicle (100) also incorporates the safety features mentioned above such as a reversing camera, and high impact LED tail lights.

In addition to the LED monitors (106) fitted to the aluminium doors (105), the vehicle (100) is fitted with updatable displays (131) for displaying location based advertisements, offers, announcements, and the like. According to the embodiment shown in Figures 9 and 10, the displays (131) are in the form of LED message boards (131), although it will be appreciated that any suitable display may be provided including, but not limited to, LCD displays, Plasma screen displays and CRT displays. The vehicle (100) can also provide WiFi access (132) and facilities for media systems, marketing, promotional or advertising activities such as geomarketing and voucher download to smart phones (134).

In further embodiments the vehicle can be used to accommodate other modules including modules for cleaning graffiti and pressure washing.

A further aspect of the invention relating to providing targeted advertising on a vehicle display will now be described with reference to Figures 11 to 13. It will be understood that while the advertising aspect is particularly suited for use with a vehicle as previously described this is not essential and any vehicle capable of implementing one or more updatable display screens could equally be utilised. With particular reference to the schematic of Figure 11 , the system (200) comprises a vehicle which, according to the illustrated embodiment, is the vehicle (100) as previously described with reference to Figures 9 and 10. A locating module (202) in the form of a GPS receiver is fixed to vehicle (100) for determining a current location of the vehicle (100). Each of the dynamically updatable displays ( 31) disposed on the vehicle (100) are operable to selectively display one or more of a plurality of targeted advertisements to bystanders, dependent on the current vehicle location and an advertisement selection criteria, as will be described in more detail in subsequent paragraphs. It will be appreciated that the term "advertisement' is to be interpreted broadly and includes within its scope both traditional forms of advertisement (e.g. displaying a company logo, brand, offer, website, etc.) as well as the more recent 'interactive' forms of advertisement which involve user participation, as will be described in more detail in subsequent paragraphs. Embodiments described hereafter will be described in the context of an advertising system for displaying merchant advertisements. It will be understood however that the advertisements could be listed by any particular advertiser and not in any way limited to advertisements by merchants.

According to the embodiment illustrated in Figure 11 , the vehicle wirelessly communicates with a remotely located advertising system (204) in order to access the advertising content for display on the displays (131). The communication between the vehicle (100) and remote system (204) may be implemented over any suitable communications network, although according to the embodiment illustrated in Figure 11 is by way of a mobile phone network (206).

With additional reference to Figure 12, the vehicle (100) comprises a processing module (208) comprising a computer processor (210) operable to control a number of individual modules for achieving the aforementioned functionality. For simplicity only those modules (which may be implemented in hardware, software or a combination of the two) needed to implement embodiments are described hereafter. Specifically, the processing module (208) comprises a radio transceiver (212) for communicating with the remote system (204). A data store (214) is arranged to store the advertisement selection criteria as well as advertisement data downloaded from the remote system (204). According to the illustrated embodiment, the advertisement data comprises any one or more of text, pictures, video and audio. The data is stored in the data store (214) in association with a classifier nominated by the merchant. An advertisement selection module (216) is operable to evaluate the stored classifiers, selection criteria and current vehicle location to determine which advertisement(s) to display on the displays (131). In one particular example, the stored advertisement selection criteria may specify that the advertisement to be displayed on the screens (131) is classified in association with a current location of the vehicle (100). As an alternative, the advertisement selection criteria may specify that the advertisement is classified in association with one or more merchant stores located in a vicinity of the vehicle (100). According to such an example, the processing module (208) may be programmed to search a map database (e.g. Google Maps) to determine a name or classification of merchant stores that are located within a predefined distance of the vehicle's current location. If any one of the stored advertisements are classified in association with the type or identity of merchant stores determined to be within the predefined distance, then the processing module (208) will cause the displays (131) to display the corresponding advertisement. It will be understood that in addition to classifying the advertisements with a particular location or store, they may also be classified such that they are only to be displayed at nominated times (e.g. to correspond with opening hours of the corresponding merchant store). A particular advantage arising through the ability to classify advertisements in such a manner is that merchants can have their advertisements displayed on the vehicle (100) at locations that are of particular value to the merchant e.g. nearby one of their stores, nearby a competitor's store, in a high traffic area, and the like.

In a particular embodiment, the advertisements displayed by the vehicle (100) are merchant offers, e.g. discounts on goods or services sold by the corresponding merchant. One or more conditions may be associated with a displayed offer. For example, following on from the above described embodiment where the advertisements are programmed to be automatically displayed when the vehicle (100) is located near a competitor's store, the condition may be that the offer is 'activated' within a certain time period of being displayed by the vehicle (100). It will be understood that activation could be any type of action by an interested party (hereafter 'bystander"), depending on the nature of the offer. For example, activation may involve sending an e-mail or SMS to a displayed address, 'liking' a Facebook page, etc. They may then be provided with a code (e.g. alphanumeric, QR code, etc.) which they can present at the merchant store as part of a purchase to finalise the activation. The time period may, for example, be associated with a distance between the location of the vehicle (100) and the location of a merchant store where they can make the purchase (e.g. so as to allow the bystander enough time to walk or otherwise travel from the competitor store to the merchant's store). In an embodiment the activation may be affected by interacting with the vehicle (100). An interested bystander may use a keypad or other suitable interface (not shown) disposed on the vehicle (100) to enter activation information, such as their contact details, payment details, and/or other particular information required to activate the offer. The bystander may use a portable device (203) such as a mobile phone to interact with the vehicle (100) to effect the activation (e.g. using SMS, email and/or any other application residing on their phone which communicates with the interface using a suitable communication protocol/standard such as Bluetooth, NFC, 802.11 , or the like). In still another embodiment the bystander may use their portable device to communicate with a remotely located activation service to activate the offer. According to the illustrated embodiment, the activation service is maintained by the remote system (204). The communication with the remotely located activation service (204) could be made by SMS, e-mail, QR code, or any other suitable communication technique.

Turning now to Figure 13, the remote advertising system (204) comprises a server computer (207) coupled to an advertisement database (205) which stores the merchant advertisements for downloading to any number of operable vehicles (100). The server (207) comprises standard computer hardware including a motherboard, central processing unit, memory, hard disk and networking hardware. In an embodiment, the server (207) communicates with the network (206) by way of a GSM modem and/or SMS gateway. In an embodiment; these components are provided by the GSM network operator. The server (207) may also include a web interface module for allowing merchants to upload or modify existing advertisements, as well as to classify the advertisements as described above. Merchants/Advertisers may interact with the web interface module (211) using a web browser, a smart phone application residing on an internet enabled smartphone or tablet, or the like. A payment processing module (213) co-operates with the web interface module (211) to allow merchants to pay for the uploaded advertisements, as will be described in subsequent paragraphs.

A specific non-limiting example will now be given to illustrate some of the advantages of the afore-described embodiment.

Example: Carol is out shopping in a busy suburban shopping strip and notices a brightly coloured cleaning vehicle (100) in accordance with the embodiment. There is a crowd gathered, watching the vehicle (100) make ugly chewing gum stains disappear. Carol has a quick look and notices a large, bright LED screen (131) on the vehicle (100). Carol was just about to walk into "LoserShoes" (a shoe store specialising in ladies' shoes) but the LED screen (131) is promoting a special 'buy one pair get one pair free' offer at "WinnerShoes" (i.e. a competitor of LoserShoes that is 100m down the road). The LED screen (131) indicates that the offer is for 30 minutes only. All Carol has to do is interact with the vehicle (100) by following the instructions on the LED screen (in this case sending an SMS with her name to a number given on the display), and she is given a unique code that she can use for the next 30 minutes at WinnerShoes. Carol sends the SMS using her mobile phone which is subsequently received by the remote system (204). The remote system (204) in turn processes the SMS to generate a unique code which is then sent back to Carol's mobile phone. Carol then hurries away from LoserShoes and into WinnerShoes to take advantage of the offer.

Unbeknownst to Carol, the message on the screen (131) was selectively displayed because WinnerShoes had signed up to an advertising program and paid a fee to have their advertisement classified such that it was to be displayed whenever the vehicle (which was constantly moving throughout its 8-hour cleaning · stint during shopping hours) happened to be within 50 metres of any of the entrances of the competing shoe stores in that particular locality. WinnerShoes may pay a particular fee to the system in order to direct the lady away from competitors and to its store, as will be described in more detail below.

As mentioned, operators are able to derive revenue through selling

advertising space on the displays (131). The fee structure may be any suitable fee structure, however according to the illustrated embodiment is either in the form of a fixed fee (e.g. an amount per day/week/month, an amount per display of the advertisement, etc.), or a commission which is calculated in dependence on the number of codes/coupons issued and/or a sale price of goods or services sold through activated offers.

In a particular embodiment, only one advertisement is displayable in association with a particular location. The system (204) may, for example, implement an auction using the payment processing module (213) which allows merchants to bid to have their advertisement displayed at a particular auctioned location. Auctions could be initiated at any time, for example as the vehicle (100) is approaching or has arrived at a new location, with the winning merchant having their advertisement downloaded to the data store (218) of the vehicle processing module (208) for immediate display.

In a particular embodiment the displays (131) may be configured to cycle through a plurality of merchant advertisements while at the same location. Equally, the displays (131) may be configured to display multiple advertisements at the same time. According to the multiple screen embodiment, the actual fee offered and/or paid by the merchant affects how their advertisement is displayed. For example, merchants may opt to pay higher fees or commission in order to make their advertisement more prominent on the display (131), be displayed at a higher frequency than other paid advertisements, etc.

According to yet a further aspect, the vehicle (100) may be configured to wirelessly communicate with a participant's communication device for displaying a message to the participant. For example, the vehicle (100) may be configured to communicate with a participant's portable device (203) using a short range radio communication protocol/standard (e.g. 802.11 , Bluetooth, NFC, etc.) for providing personalised messages. The communication may be initiated by an application residing on the bystander's portable device (203). To implement such functionality, and with reference back to Figures 11 and 12, the processing module (208) comprises a communications module which, according to the illustrated embodiment is a short range communications module (218) including the necessary hardware and software for allowing the processing module (208) to communicate with the portable device (203) using the selected short range communication protocol. The processing module (208) further comprises a messaging module (220) operable to cause a personalised message to be displayed to the bystander in response to determining that the bystander's portable device (203) is in communicable range of the vehicle (100). One or more message display criteria stored in memory (214) may be evaluated by the messaging module (220) to determine whether a message is to be sent to the bystander. The message could be any personalised message and could be communicated to the bystander by way of the vehicle display (131) or the screen of their communications device (203). For example, a merchant/advertiser may run a competition whereby a message is communicated to the first registered bystander to walk past the vehicle (100) that they have won a prize. Thus, the message display criteria may be that a portable device that is in communicable range of the vehicle (100) has pre-registered with the system (e.g. it has been registered in a database through an app-based enrolment process) and that a corresponding prize has not yet been awarded. It will be appreciated that the processing module (208) may communicate with the remote system (204) to access a database which stores the relevant device registration information and prize information for allowing it to make the determination. In an alternative embodiment, the vehicle may be configured to wirelessly communicate with a non-portable participant communication device (e.g. a desktop computer including the necessary software/hardware to communicate with the vehicle such as a wireless modem) such that as the vehicle (100) drives past the participant communication device they are presented with the message.

ADVANTAGES

An advantage of the preferred embodiment of the self-powered cleaning vehicle is that the modular system allows the vehicle to be easily, quickly and safely adapted for use in such tasks as steam gum removal; steam cleaning; graffiti removal; water blasting; vacuuming; sanitizing and weed killing.

The vehicle of the preferred embodiment has a steam interlock and vacuum connection built into the rear bumper to allow access to the services from outside of the vehicle. This allows extra reach for the steam and vacuum hoses, and less risk of catching or snagging hose on parts of the vehicle or equipment inside the vehicle. The system has increased robustness and easier and safer operation.

The vehicle of the preferred embodiment has a raised chassis allowing easy movement over kerbs and rough terrain such as parks and gardens.

The vehicle has a full solar roof which increases the amount of solar power available.

The vehicle of the preferred embodiment has safety features such as electronic cut out seat belts; audible and visual hazard warning systems; reversing camera; fire retardant lining in the compartment housing the equipment; and anti-slip floor surface in the driver's compartment.

The vehicle of the preferred embodiment has means of communication such as sponsorship and advertising space on the roller doors; moving LED message boards; proximity broadcast systems.

A particular advantage arising through the advertising aspect of the invention is that target advertisements can be provided using location based classification. Another advantage arising through the advertising aspect of the invention is that advertisements can be selectively displayed by the vehicle when it is within the vicinity of one of their stores (e.g. to entice nearby shoppers who may have otherwise simply walked past to come in, by offering a special for a limited time), or a competitor's store (e.g. by enticing the shoppers who might have otherwise bought from a competitor to move away from the competitor to the advertising merchant store where they can take advantage of the displayed offer).

Another advantage arising through the advertising aspect is the ability to generate revenue from paid advertisements displayed on the vehicle displays which may assist in offsetting the price of the vehicle, and may allow for flexible pricing models to be used when selling/loaning/donating the vehicle to customers such as local councils etc.

A particular advantage arising through use of the cleaning vehicle described above to display advertisements is the ability to reach potential customers due to the vehicle being constantly moving and its ability to access pedestrian-only areas. Furthermore, there is a particular 'eye magnetism ^* due to the vehicle's unique appearance and function. Another advantage is based on the vehicle's environmental friendliness and constant usability - it has (especially when compared with larger, noisier vehicles that use a greater volume of water that can create slip hazards and that use more harmful chemicals), a low noise, danger and environmental footprint, meaning it is safe to use during the day and around children. This operability during daylight hours, during shopping hours, and around children and other vulnerable populations, maximises exposure to the eyes of passers-by (thus, to the advertising audience) during operation.

A yet further advantage arising through use of the cleaning vehicle described above to display advertisements is that a community benefit (namely, cleaning and sanitisation as referred to above) is achieved simultaneously with the achievement of the advertising.

It will be appreciated that embodiments may be more attractive to advertisers than the "GrouponTScoopon" models, in that the displays can selectively display advertisements based on location (e.g. to those very close by), by time (i.e. bystanders see the advertisement when they are actually shopping, rather than when busy working or doing something else) and/or by interest (i.e. to a bystander who is actually near a targeted store or through allowing the bystander to actively ask for the coupon through the various activation methods outlined above).

VARIATIONS

It will of course be realised that while the foregoing has been given by way of illustrative example of this invention, all such and other modifications and variations thereto as would be apparent to persons skilled in the art are deemed to fall within the broad scope and ambit of this invention as is herein set forth.

For example, the vehicle of the advertising system as previously described with reference to Figures 11 through 13 may not need to be in wireless communication with the remotely located processing system in order to display advertisements. Instead, the advertisements for a particular run may be stored in memory (214) and updated, if necessary, when the run has been completed (e.g. by communicating with the remote processing system (204) or some other advertising content store using a wireless or fixed connection).

In another alternative embodiment the vehicle (100) may be arranged to dispense coupons either in addition or as an alternative to the offer being displayed on the vehicle display(s). The locating module provided on the vehicle may use other techniques to determine the location including, for example, mobile phone tower triangulation techniques and the like.

In a particular embodiment the advertisements displayable on the display screens may not be paid for by the advertiser but instead by an intermediary or end customer (e.g. as a handling/processing/admin fee) who is benefitting from the provision of the vehicle or the content of the advertisement.

It will be understood that, in relation to the advertising aspects, the term "vehicle" is to be construed broadly and may include any suitable display carrier that is capable of being moved from one location to another. For example, the vehicle could be a car, train, person (e.g. wearing or carrying the displays), a portable A- frame which is periodically moved around, among others.

While the above embodiments described the portable device in the form of an Internet-enabled smart phone it will be appreciated that any suitable portable device could be utilised for interacting with the vehicle (100) and/or remote system (204) depending on the wireless communications protocol needed to communicate with those system elements. For example, the portable device may be a tablet device, PDA, wireless computer (e.g. laptop computer) or the like.

Throughout the description and claims this specification the word "comprise" and variations of that word such as "comprises" and "comprising", are not intended to exclude other additives, components, integers or steps.