Field

The present invention relates to a wheel wash assembly for vehicles, forwashing wheels thereof.

Background to the invention

Vehicle wheels may be typically washed prior to a vehicle exiting a location so as to reduce transfer of debris and/or contaminants from the location to a road. Washing of vehicle wheels may be mandated by regulation. For example, private, commercial, construction, or agricultural vehicle wheels may be washed prior to a vehicle exiting a commercial, construction or agricultural location so as to reduce transfer of debris and/or contaminants from the commercial, construction or agricultural location to a road. For example, truck wheels or continuous tracks may be washed of building materials or industrial fluids prior to the truck or the bulldozer leaving a construction site or industrial plant. For example, tractor and/or trailer wheels may be washed of soil, fertilizer or muck prior to the tractor and/or trailer exiting agricultural land.

Typically, vehicle wheels and/or continuous tracks may be washed with water, using, for example, a hose and/or brush and/or pressure washer. The water, together with debris and/or contaminants washed from the vehicle wheels, may further contaminate a washing location and/or present an environmental hazard. Further, significant quantities of water and/or labour for washing may be required. While conventional wheel washes have overcome some of the drawbacks of washing with a hose and/or brush and/or pressure washer, they also present a number of drawbacks of their own.

Conventional wheel washes typically use drive-through tanks, in which wheels of a vehicle are at least partially submerged, and/or spray assemblies. However, debris tends to accumulate in the tanks and removal thereof is problematic. Furthermore, conventional wheel washes are generally designed for the largest vehicles typically expected. However, such conventional wheel washes may not be suitable for all locations, for example city centre construction sites.

Hence, there is a need to improve wheel washes.

Summary of the Invention

It is one aim of the present invention, amongst others, to provide a wheel wash assembly which at least partially obviates or mitigates at least some of the disadvantages of the prior art, whether identified herein or elsewhere. For instance, it is an aim of embodiments of the invention to provide a wheel wash assembly that facilitates removal of debris therefrom. For instance, it is an aim of embodiments of the invention to provide a wheel wash assembly that is suitable for more locations, for example city centre construction sites. A first aspect provides a wheel wash assembly for a vehicle, comprising: a set of wheel wash apparatuses, including a first wheel wash apparatus; wherein the first wheel wash apparatus comprises: a tank having an open upper portion and comprising a set of wall portions including a lower wall portion opposed to the open upper portion and opposed first and second wall portions therebetween; a bridge, comprising a deck for receiving the vehicle thereon; and a set of spray assemblies, including a first spray assembly; wherein the first wheel wash apparatus is arrangeable in: a first arrangement, wherein the deck extends, at least in part, across the open upper portion of the tank between the opposed first and second wall portions of the tank; and a second arrangement, wherein the deck and the tank are mutually spaced apart.

Detailed Description of the Invention According to the present invention there is provided a wheel wash assembly for a vehicle, as set forth in the appended claims. Other features of the invention will be apparent from the dependent claims, and the description that follows.

The first aspect provides a wheel wash assembly for a vehicle, comprising: a set of wheel wash apparatuses, including a first wheel wash apparatus; wherein the first wheel wash apparatus comprises: a tank having an open upper portion and comprising a set of wall portions including a lower wall portion opposed to the open upper portion and opposed first and second wall portions therebetween; a bridge, comprising a deck for receiving the vehicle thereon; and a set of spray assemblies, including a first spray assembly; wherein the first wheel wash apparatus is arrangeable in: a first arrangement, wherein the deck extends, at least in part, across the open upper portion of the tank between the opposed first and second wall portions of the tank; and a second arrangement, wherein the deck and the tank are mutually spaced apart.

In this way, when the first wheel wash apparatus is arranged in the first (or washing) arrangement, the vehicle drives across the deck and wheels thereof are washed by the set of spray assemblies. During such washing, debris collects in the tank below the deck. Subsequently, the first wheel wash apparatus is arranged in the second (or maintenance) arrangement, in which the deck and the tank are mutually spaced apart. In other words, the deck is separated from the tank, for example by lifting the deck away. In the second arrangement, the debris collected in the tank may be more readily removed therefrom, for example using a backhoe, since the deck does not extend, at least in part, across the open upper portion of the tank. In other words, the open upper portion of the tank is exposed in the second arrangement such that access thereto is uninterrupted by the deck. In other words, the first wheel wash apparatus may be readily disassembled and re-assembled, for maintenance as well as storage, transportation and/or handling thereof. Furthermore, respective components (i.e. the tank, the bridge, the deck thereof, the first spray assembly, the set thereof) of the first wheel wash apparatus may be interchanged with a second wheel apparatus and/or repaired, upgraded and/or replaced, since these components may be respectively demountable.

It should be understood that the wheel wash assembly is for washing wheels and/or continuous tracks of a vehicle, for example a commercial vehicle (such as a van or lorry), a construction vehicle (such as a truck, a loader, a backhoe, a bulldozer) or an agricultural vehicle (such as a tractor).

The wheel wash assembly comprises the set of wheel wash apparatuses, including the first wheel wash apparatus, as described below in more detail. In one example, the set of wheel wash apparatuses includes N wheel wash apparatuses, wherein N is a natural number greater than or equal to 1 , for example 1 , 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 or more. It should be understood that the Nth wheel wash apparatus may be as described with respect to the first wheel wash apparatus, mutatis mutandis.

The first wheel wash apparatus comprises the tank, the bridge and the set of spray assemblies.

The tank has an open upper portion comprising a set of wall portions including a lower wall portion opposed to the open upper portion and opposed first and second wall portions therebetween. It should be understood that the tank is thus an open tank, having the open upper portion. It should be understood that the open upper portion allows water and/or debris to be received therethough into the tank. In one example, the open upper portion is fully open, having no coverings or occlusions. In one example, the open upper portion is partially open, for example having perforations therethough, such as a mesh or grid, thereby allowing water and/or debris to be received therethough into the tank while increasing safety. In one example, the open upper portion is partially open and is removable from the tank, for example hinged or separable therefrom. The bridge comprises the deck for receiving the vehicle thereon. The deck extends, at least in part, across the open upper portion of the tank between the opposed first and second wall portions of the tank, in the first configuration. It should be understood that the bridge thus provides a carriageway for the vehicle to drive over and across, at least in part, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus. It should be understood that a wheel of the vehicle contacts the deck, in use.

The set of spray assemblies includes the first spray assembly. Generally, a spray assembly comprises a nozzle arranged to direct spray of pressurised liquid, such as water. It should be understood that the set of spray assemblies is arranged, for example oriented, to direct such spray to clean, at least in part, a wheel and/or a chassis of the vehicle, in use. In one example, the set of spray assemblies includes M spray assemblies, wherein M is a natural number greater than or equal to 1 , for example 1 , 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 or more. It should be understood that the Mth spray assembly may be as described with respect to the first spray assembly, mutatis mutandis.

The first wheel wash apparatus is arrangeable in the first arrangement, wherein the deck extends, at least in part, across the open upper portion of the tank between the opposed first and second wall portions of the tank. It should be understood that the first arrangement is thus the in-use or washing arrangement, during which the vehicle drives across the bridge and the wheels and/or chassis thereof cleaned, at least in part, by water from the set of spray assemblies, while the water and/or debris from the vehicle subsequently drains into the tank below.

The first wheel wash apparatus is arrangeable in the second arrangement, wherein the deck and the tank are mutually spaced apart. It should be understood that the second arrangement is thus the maintenance arrangement, during which debris received in the tank may be removed, for example using a backhoe.

In one example, the first wheel wash apparatus is arranged to move, for example repeatedly, from the first arrangement to the second arrangement by lifting the deck away from the tank. In one example, the first wheel wash apparatus is arranged to move, for example repeatedly, from the second arrangement to the first arrangement by lifting the deck towards from the tank, for example to replace the deck.

In one example, first wheel wash apparatus is arrangeable in the second arrangement, wherein the bridge and the tank are mutually spaced apart. It should be understood that generally, for a wheeled vehicle, a vehicle wheel comprises a tyre and a wheel rim. It should be understood that generally, an axle track of a vehicle is a distance between a centerline of a first wheel on an axle and a centreline of a second wheel on the axle, wherein the first wheel and the second wheel are on opposing ends of the axle. It should be understood that generally, an axle track of a continuous track vehicle (for example, a bulldozer) is a distance between a centerline of a first continuous track and a centreline of a second continuous wherein the first continuous track and the second continuous track are on opposing sides of the vehicle.

In one example, the deck is separable from the bridge, for example wherein the deck is releasably attached thereto. For example, the bridge may comprise a frame and the deck, for example in the form of deck plates, is attached releasably on to the frame, for example using interlocking members or sitting thereon. In this way, the deck may be removed from the bridge in the second arrangement, while the frame remains in situ, allowing improved access to the tank through the frame.

In one example, the deck is not separable from the bridge, for example permanently or semipermanently attached thereto, for example by welding and/or using mechanical fasteners not intended for removal by end users. In one example, in the second arrangement, the bridge and the tank are mutually spaced apart. That is, the bridge comprising the deck and the tank are mutually spaced apart in the second arrangement. In this way, the bridge comprising the deck, for example the entire bridge, may be removed from the bridge in the second arrangement. In other words, the open upper portion of the tank is exposed in the second arrangement such that access thereto is uninterrupted by the deck, allowing improved access to the tank.

In one example, the first spray assembly is attached to the bridge. That is, the first spray assembly is integrated with the bridge, allowing for removal of the first spray assembly with the bridge when moving to the second arrangement. In this way, in the second arrangement, the first spray assembly and the tank are mutually spaced apart, as described above. Additionally and/or alternatively, a complexity of the wheel wash assembly is reduced and/or damaged to the first spray assembly is avoided while cleaning debris from the tank in the second arrangement.

In one example, the bridge comprises a set of piers, including a first pier and a second pier, arranged to contact the lower wall portion of the tank in the first arrangement. In this way, the bridge may stand in the tank in the first arrangement. In one example, the set of piers comprises a shock absorber for example a shock absorbent material, such as rubber, to prevent damage to the bridge resulting from impact when the bridge is received by the tank. In one example, the set of wall portions, for example the first wall portion and/orthe second wall portion, is arranged to facilitate receiving the bridge into the tank. For example, the set of wall portions may be tapered outwardly towards the open upper portion, whereby a dimension, such as a length, a width and/or an area, of the open upper portion is larger than a corresponding dimension of the lower wall portion. In this way, the bridge may be guided into the tank by the set of wall portions. In one example, the set of piers is complementarily arranged to the set of wall portions.

In one example, the deck extends, at least in part, across the open upper portion of the tank between the opposed first and second wall portions of the tank and overhangs beyond the opposed first and second wall portions of the tank. In one example, the bridge comprises a set of piers, including a first pier and a second pier, arranged beyond the opposed first and second wall portions of the tank in the first arrangement. In this way, the bridge may stand outside the tank in the first arrangement, for example on the ground.

In one example, the tank is arranged to receive the bridge therein and/or thereon, between the opposed first and second wall portions of the tank in the first arrangement. For example, the bridge may be positioned within the tank in the first arrangement, for example partially or fully therein. For example, the bridge may be supported by the tank, for example by and/or on the opposed first and second wall portions of the tank in the first arrangement.

In one example, dimensions of the deck are adjustable or customisable to allow different sized vehicles to be washed, for example vehicles of different widths.

In one example, the first wheel wash apparatus comprises a weir, defining a set of water settlement regions, including a first water settlement region and a second water settlement region, in the tank in the first arrangement. In this way, water including debris received in the tank from washing the wheels of the vehicle may be clarified, at least in part.

In one example, the set of spray assemblies includes a second spray assembly, opposed to the first spray assembly. In this way, opposed sides of the vehicle may be washed, for example simultaneously.

In one example, the first wheel wash apparatus comprises a set of panels, including a first panel, arranged to, at least in part, constrain spray from the set of spray assemblies, in use. In this way, spray from the set of spray assemblies may be contained between the set of panels and the vehicle and hence drain into the tank, for example, thereby reducing loss of water outside of the tank. In one example, a height of the first panel is greater than a diameter of a vehicle wheel and/or a height of a vehicle continuous track. In one example, a height of the first panel is less than a radius of a vehicle wheel or a half height of a vehicle continuous track. In this way, water and/or debris washed from a vehicle wheel and/or continuous track may drain back into the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus. In this way, water and/or debris washed from a vehicle wheel may not drain outside the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus.

In one example, a length of the deck, for example between the opposed first and second wall portions, is at most a width of the deck. In this way, the length of the deck is no longer than the width of the deck required to receive the vehicle thereon. In this way, transportation of the deck and/or the wheel wash assembly to site, for example, and/or storage is facilitated, since dimensions of the deck and/or the wheel wash assembly are suitable for standard road haulage i.e. not wide loads.

In one example, a width of the deck is in a range from 2 m to 4 m, preferably in a range from 2.5 m to 3 m. In this way, the wheel wash assembly is suitable for a commercial vehicle (such as a van or lorry), a construction vehicle (such as a truck, a loader, a backhoe, a bulldozer) or an agricultural vehicle (such as a tractor). In one example, a length of the deck is in a range from 1 m to 4 m, preferably in a range from 1 .5 m to 2.5 m. That is, the length of the deck may be less than the width thereof, thereby facilitating transportation on a lorry, for example. In one example, a width of the tank corresponds with or is at least a width of the deck. In this way, water and/or debris may drain through the tank into the tank below, in use in the first arrangement. In one example, a width of the tank is in a range from 2 m to 4 m, preferably in a range from 2.5 m to 3 m. In one example, a length of the tank corresponds with or is at least a length of the deck. In this way, the deck may be positioned fully over the tank. In one example, a depth of the tank is in a range from 0.2 m to 1 m, preferably in a range from 0.3 m to 0.7 m, more preferably in a range from 0.4 m to 0.6 m.

In one example, the deck includes one or more perforations therethrough. In this way, water and/or debris may drain through the tank into the tank below, in use in the first arrangement.

In one example, the wheel wash assembly comprises a set of entry ramps, including a first entry ramp, and/or a set of exit ramps, including a first exit ramp; optionally wherein the set of entry ramps and/or the set of exit ramps is attached, for example releasably, to the first wheel wash apparatus. In this way, the vehicle may ascend onto the deck via the set of entry ramps and subsequently, after washing, descend from the deck via the set of exit ramps. By attaching the set of entry ramps and/or the set of exit ramps to the first wheel wash apparatus, mechanical robustness of the wheel wash assembly is improved. Where a set of entry ramps and/or a set of exit ramps are not provided, the wheel wash assembly may be provided in a pit, for example. In one example, the wheel wash assembly comprises a pump arranged to, in use, pump water to the first wheel wash apparatus, for example to the first spray assembly thereof. In this way, water may be recirculated from the tank to the set of spray assemblies, for example.

In one example, the wheel wash assembly comprises a reservoir fluidically coupled to the tank. In this way, additional water and/or clarified used water may be supplied to the tank or received therein from the tank.

In one example, the set of wheel wash apparatuses includes a second wheel wash apparatus, wherein the wheel wash assembly is configurable in a first configuration, wherein the first wheel wash apparatus and the second wheel wash apparatus are adjacent, and a second configuration, wherein the first wheel wash apparatus and the second wheel wash apparatus are spaced mutually apart. In this way, a wheel washing capacity of the wheel wash assembly may be increased, for example for a given size of a wheel wash apparatus, by increasing a number of wheel wash apparatuses, while facilitating fabrication, storage, transportation and/or handling thereof. Conversely, a wheel washing capacity of the wheel wash assembly may be decreased by decreasing a number of wheel wash apparatuses. In other words, the wheel wash apparatuses may be modular and the number of modules varied according to the desired wheel washing capacity.

In one example, the first spray assembly of the first wheel wash apparatus is fluidically coupled to the first spray assembly of the second wheel wash apparatus. In this way,

In one example, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus is fluidically coupled to the tank of the second wheel wash apparatus.

In one example, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus comprises a first tank and a second tank, for example a pair of tanks. In one example, the first tank and the second tank are similar tanks. In one example, the first tank and the second tank are identical.

In one example, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus is arranged to receive a liquid for example a washing liquid for example water. In one example, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus is arranged to receive a residue and/or a contaminant for example a solid and/or liquid residue and/or contaminant for example debris or soil or concrete or oil or hydraulic fluid or lubricant.

In one example, a width of the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus is less than or equal to a width of a vehicle and/or axle track. In one example, a width of the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus is less than or equal to half of a width of a vehicle and/or axle track. In one example, a width of the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus is greater than or equal to a width of a vehicle wheel and/or continuous track.

In one example, the wheel wash assembly comprises a plurality of tank coupling members, arranged to couple the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus and a tank of a second wheel wash apparatus. In one example, the wheel wash assembly comprises a plurality of tank coupling members, arrangeable to couple the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus and the tank of the second wheel wash apparatus such that the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus and the tank of the second wheel wash apparatus are arrangeable in a variably-spaced relationship to accommodate vehicles and/or sites of different dimensions.

In this way, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus and the tank of the second wheel wash apparatus may, for example, be uncoupled for transportation to and/or from site and may be coupled for use of the wheel wash assembly. In this way, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus and the tank of the second wheel wash apparatus may be arranged to accommodate different vehicles and/or sites. In this way, the tank coupling may maintain a spaced relationship of the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus and the tank of the tank wheel wash apparatus, in use. For example, the tank coupling member may maintain a position, a spacing and/or an alignment of the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus and/or the tank of the second wheel wash apparatus so that a vehicle may be driven through the wheel wash assembly. For example, the bath coupling member may tend to minimize a movement and/or a relative movement of the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus and/or the tank of the second wheel wash apparatus when a vehicle is driven through the wheel wash assembly.

In one example, a dimension of the tank coupling member comprises a predetermined dimension, for example, a fixed length. In one example, a dimension of the tank coupling member comprises an adjustable dimension, for example, an adjustable and/or user-adjustable length. In one example, the tank coupling member comprises a screw-type and/or a slide-type and/or a pin-type bath coupling member.

In one example, a length of the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus is greater than or equal to a diameter of a vehicle wheel and/or a length of a vehicle continuous track. In one example, a length of the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus is greater than or equal to a diameter of a relatively larger vehicle wheel, wherein a vehicle comprises a relatively larger wheel and a relatively smaller wheel, for example, a tractor.

In one example, a length of the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus is greater than or equal to twice a diameter of a vehicle wheel and/or twice a length of a vehicle continuous track. In one example, a length of the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus is greater than or equal to twice a diameter of a relatively larger vehicle wheel, wherein a vehicle comprises a relatively larger wheel and a relatively smaller wheel, for example, a tractor.

In one example, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus comprises a wheel. In one example, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus comprises a plurality of wheels. In this way, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus may be moved for example positioned or repositioned on site.

In one example, the wheel wash assembly comprises a jockey wheel. In one example, the wheel wash assembly comprises a plurality of jockey wheels. In this way, the wheel wash assembly may be raised by a plurality of jockey wheels, the wheel wash assembly may be moved for example positioned or repositioned on site and the wheel wash assembly may be lowered by a plurality of jockey wheels.

In one example, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus comprises a jockey wheel. In one example, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus comprises a plurality of jockey wheels. In this way, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus may be raised by a plurality of jockey wheels, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus may be moved for example positioned or repositioned on site and the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus may be lowered by a plurality of jockey wheels.

In one example, the wheel wash assembly is fabricated using a metal for example steel, aluminium. In one example, the wheel wash assembly comprises a plate and/or sheet metal for example plate steel, sheet steel, plate aluminium, sheet aluminium. In one example, the wheel wash assembly comprises a formed metal for example rolled, pressed, extruded metal for example angle, hollow section, universal beam. In one example, the wheel wash assembly comprises a fabrication.

In one example, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus is fabricated using a metal for example steel, aluminium. In one example, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus comprises a plate and/or sheet metal for example plate steel, sheet steel, plate aluminium, sheet aluminium. In one example, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus comprises a formed metal for example rolled, pressed, extruded metal for example angle, hollow section, universal beam. In one example, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus comprises a fabrication.

In one example, the wheel wash assembly comprises an outlet. In one example, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus comprises an outlet, for example, a drain hole and a plug. In one example, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus comprises a water outlet. In this way, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus may be drained of water, for example, prior to relocating a wheel wash assembly or prior to replacing water in the wheel wash assembly. In one example, the wheel wash assembly comprises an outer ramp. Herein, an outer ramp ascends up to and/or descends down from the wheel wash assembly. In one example, the wheel wash assembly comprises a plurality of outer ramps. In one example, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus is arranged to receive an outer ramp. Herein, an outer ramp ascends up to and/or descends down from the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus. In one example, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus is coupled to an outer ramp. In one example, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus is coupled to two outer ramps. In one example, the first tank of the first wheel wash apparatus is coupled to two outer ramps. In this way, a vehicle may be driven up an outer ramp, across the bridge and down an outer ramp. In this way, a vehicle may be driven through a wheel wash assembly.

In one example, the wheel wash assembly comprises one or more rumble strips. In one example, the wheel wash assembly comprises one or more transverse rumble strips. In one example, one or more inner and/or outer ramps comprise one or more transverse rumble strips. In this way, vibrations induced in a vehicle may tend to release debris from the vehicle and/or vehicle wheel and/or continuous track. In this way, an effectiveness of a wheel wash may be improved.

In one example, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus comprises a tank inlet. In one example, the tank inlet is arranged to receive a conduit e.g. a pipe, a hose. In one example, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus comprises a tank outlet. In one example, the tank outlet is arranged to receive a conduit e.g. a pipe, a hose. In one example, the tank inlet comprises a coupling wherein the coupling is arranged to receive a conduit e.g. a fluid connection, a pipe connection, a hose connection, a flanged connection, a Bauer coupling. In one example, the tank outlet comprises a coupling wherein the coupling is arranged to receive a conduit e.g. a fluid connection, a pipe connection, a hose connection, a flanged connection, a Bauer coupling.

In one example, the deck and/or the bridge of the first wheel wash apparatus comprises a lifting point e.g. a lug, an eye, a hook, a shackle arranged to couple with a lifting means e.g. a crane, a hoist. In one example, the deck and/or the bridge of the first wheel wash apparatus comprises a plurality of such lifting points. For example, the deck and/or the bridge of the first wheel wash apparatus may comprise one, two, three or four lifting lugs arranged to receive a set of chains or ropes or straps. In this way, the deck and/or the bridge of the first wheel wash apparatus may be, for example, lifted away from the tan, thereby moving the first wheel wash apparatus from the first configuration to the second configuration and/or vice versa.

In one example, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus comprises a secondary lifting point e.g. a lug, an eye, a hook, a shackle arranged to couple with a lifting means e.g. a crane, a hoist. In one example, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus comprises a plurality of such secondary lifting points. For example, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus may comprise a four lifting lugs arranged to receive a set of chains or ropes or straps. In this way, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus may be, for example, loaded onto a vehicle, unloaded from a vehicle, repositioned on site.

In one example, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus comprises a forklift pocket arranged to receive a forklift fork. In one example, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus comprises a plurality of such forklift pockets. For example, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus may comprise two or a pair of forklift pockets arranged to receive a pair of forklift forks of a forklift. In this way, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus may be moved by the forklift e.g. loaded onto a vehicle, unloaded from a vehicle, repositioned on site. In one example, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus comprises a pair of forklift pockets arranged across an upper region of the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus, for example, extending between opposed side wall portions of the tank. In one example, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus comprises a pair of forklift pockets arranged across a lower region of the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus, for example, extending between opposed side wall portions of the tank proximal the bottom wall portion of the tank.

In one example, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus comprises a levelling member (e.g. a foot, a mount) arrangeable in use to level the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus. In this way, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus may be arranged such that a bottom wall portion of the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus is parallel to an operating surface of water in the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus. In one example, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus comprises a plurality of such levelling members. In one example, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus comprises such a levelling member. In one example, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus comprises a plurality of such levelling members.

In one example, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus comprises a jockey wheel. In one example, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus comprises a plurality of jockey wheels. In this way, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus may be raised by a plurality of jockey wheels, tank of the first wheel wash apparatus may be moved for example positioned or repositioned on site and the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus may be lowered by a plurality of jockey wheels. In one example, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus comprises such a jockey wheel. In one example, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus comprises a plurality of such jockey wheels.

In one example, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus comprises one or more closeable drain outlets. In this way, fluid in the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus may be drained from the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus through a drain outlet, for example, prior to decommissioning, moving and/or maintenance of the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus. In one example, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus comprises one or more such drain outlets.

In one example, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus comprises a baffle or deflector or diverter, arranged to baffle or deflect water received in the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus through the inlet. For example, the baffle or deflector may be arranged proximal the inlet. In this way, water received in the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus through the inlet may be stilled.

In one example, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus comprises an interceptor, arranged to intercept, for example, floating matter thereby preventing the floating matter from exiting the outlet. For example, the interceptor may be arranged proximal the outlet. In one example, the interceptor comprises a mesh interceptor, arranged to intercept floating solids matter, for example debris, refuse, organic matter, inorganic matter. In one example, the interceptor comprises a plate interceptor, arranged to intercept floating solids and/or liquid matter, for example debris, refuse, organic matter, inorganic matter, oil, grease, or fuel. In one example, the interceptor is coupled to the tank. In one example, the interceptor is uncoupleable from the tank. In this way, the interceptor may be uncoupled from the tank and removed for cleaning, for example, and/or to exchange a mesh interceptor and a plate interceptor.

In one example, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus comprises a plurality of wall portions, for example a bottom wall portion, a front wall portion, a rear wall portion and/or one or more side walls portions. In one example, the bottom wall portion of the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus comprises no openings in, or passageways defined there-through. In one example, the bottom wall portion comprises one opening in, or passageway defined there-through. In one example, the opening or passageway is closeable, for example the opening or passageway comprises a plughole and plug. In one example, the plurality of wall portions are arranged with one another to form the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus comprising no openings in, or passageways defined through the wall portions. In one example, the plurality of wall portions are arranged with one another to form the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus comprising no openings in, or passageways defined through the wall portions at a level below the operating surface of fluid contained in the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus in use. In one example, the plurality of wall portions comprises one opening therein, or passageway defined therethrough. In one example, the opening or passageway is closeable, for example the opening or passageway comprises a plughole and plug. In one example, the plurality of wall portions comprises a plurality of openings therein, or passageways defined there-through, as described above. In one example, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus comprises a single internal surface defined by the wall portions. In one example, the single internal surface is generally concave, to in use receive a fluid. In one example, the internal surface comprises only internal corners.

In one example, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus comprises a planar wall portion. In one example, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus comprises a non-planar wall portion e.g. a curved wall portion. In one example, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus comprises a bottom wall portion. In one example, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus comprises a sidewall portion. In one example, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus comprises a plurality of side wall portions, including two or more side wall portions arranged opposite one another. In one example the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus comprises two side wall portions, for example two side wall portions that are arranged opposite one another.

In one example, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus comprises a plurality of side wall portions arranged to define a settlement region of the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus there-between. In one example, the tank of the first wheel wash apparatus comprises a plurality of side wall portions arranged to define a settlement region between opposed side walls, for example between one, two or three pairs of opposed side walls. In one example, the side wall regions are arranged to provide a symmetrical tank of the first wheel wash apparatus form.

Definitions

Throughout this specification, the term “comprising” or “comprises” means including the component(s) specified but not to the exclusion of the presence of other components. The term “consisting essentially of or “consists essentially of means including the components specified but excluding other components except for materials present as impurities, unavoidable materials present as a result of processes used to provide the components, and components added for a purpose other than achieving the technical effect of the invention, such as colourants, and the like.

The term “consisting of or “consists of means including the components specified but excluding other components.

Whenever appropriate, depending upon the context, the use of the term “comprises” or “comprising” may also be taken to include the meaning “consists essentially of or “consisting essentially of, and also may also be taken to include the meaning “consists of or “consisting of.

The optional features set out herein may be used either individually or in combination with each other where appropriate and particularly in the combinations as set out in the accompanying claims. The optional features for each aspect or exemplary embodiment of the invention, as set out herein are also applicable to all other aspects or exemplary embodiments of the invention, where appropriate. In other words, the skilled person reading this specification should consider the optional features for each aspect or exemplary embodiment of the invention as interchangeable and combinable between different aspects and exemplary embodiments.

Brief description of the drawings

For a better understanding of the invention, and to show how exemplary embodiments of the same may be brought into effect, reference will be made, by way of example only, to the accompanying diagrammatic Figures, in which:

Figure 1 schematically depicts a tank and a first panel of a first wheel wash apparatus of a wheel wash assembly according to an exemplary embodiment;

Figure 2 schematically depicts a bridge and a set of spray assemblies of a first wheel wash apparatus of a wheel wash assembly according to an exemplary embodiment;

Figure 3 schematically a tank, a first panel, a bridge and a set of spray assemblies of a first wheel wash apparatus of a wheel wash assembly according to an exemplary embodiment;

Figure 4 schematically depicts a side view of a wheel wash assembly according to an exemplary embodiment; and

Figure 5 schematically depicts a plan view of a wheel wash assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

Detailed Description of the Drawings

Figure 1 schematically depicts a tank 200 of a first wheel wash apparatus of a wheel wash assembly for a vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment. The tank 200 comprises an open upper portion comprising a set of wall portions including a lowerwall portion 205, which provides a base, opposed to the open upper portion. The tank further comprises opposed first 201 and second 202 wall portions between the open upper portion and the lowerwall portion 205, which run the length of the tank 200. In this example, the tank 200 also comprises side walls 203, 204 between the first 201 and second 202 wall portions, which run the width of the tank 200. Consequently, the tank 200 shown in Figure 1 has a rectangular outline, but the tank 200 is not limited to a particular geometry. The height of the first 201 and second 202 wall portions and the height of the side walls 203, 204 define the depth of the tank 200 shown in Figure 1. In Figure 1 , the first 201 and second 202 wall portions are supported by struts 210. The side walls 203, 204 may also comprise struts 210.

In addition to the tank 200, the first wheel wash apparatus may comprise a set of panels. Figure 1 includes a depiction of a first panel 600 of the set of panels of the wheel wash assembly. The first panel 600, at least in part, constrains spray from a set of spray assemblies (described below), in use. For example, as shown in Figure 1 , the first panel 600 may be attached to a side wall 204 of the tank 200. The tank 200, as shown in Figure 1 , may comprise sockets 204 for receiving legs 610 of the first panel 600. The first panel 600 may be attached the tank 200 by other attachments or joints. Typically, each of the set of panels comprise lightweight material that is impervious to water, such as plastic. The set of panels may prevent water wastage by constraining the spray to an area for washing.

Figure 2 schematically depicts a bridge 300 of the first wheel wash apparatus of a wheel wash assembly for a vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment. The bridge 300 comprises a deck 301 for receiving a vehicle thereon. Therefore, the width of the deck 301 is at least that of vehicle or other machinery for which washing may be necessary or desired. The dimensions of the deck 301 may be adjustable or customisable to allow different sized vehicles to be washed, for example vehicles of different widths.

The bridge 301 shown in Figure 2 may further comprise a set of piers arranged to contact the lower wall portion 205 of the tank 200 in a first arrangement, thereby maintaining the bridge 301 at a predetermined height above the lower wall portion 205 of the tank 200. In the first arrangement the deck 301 extends, at least in part, across the open upper portion of the tank

200 between the opposed first 201 and second 202 wall portions of the tank 200. The tank 200 may be arranged to receive the bridge 300 therein and/or thereon, between the opposed first

201 and second 202 wall portions of the tank 200 in the first arrangement to form the first wheel wash apparatus comprising the tank 200 shown in Figure 1 and the bridge 300 and set of spray assemblies 401 , 402 (described below) of Figure 2. In a second arrangement, the deck 301 and the tank 200 are mutually spaced apart.

The set of piers may, as shown in Figure 2, include a first pier 311 and a second pier 312. In Figure 2, the first pier 311 spans the end of the bridge 300 from which a vehicle or alike may be received by the deck 301 and the second pier 312 spans the end of the bridge 300 from which a vehicle may exit the deck 301 , each of the piers 311 , 312 running parallel to the first 201 and second wall portions 202. As shown in Figure 2, the bridge 300 may comprise a support 320 between the first pier 311 and the second pier 312. The piers 311 , 312 may comprise a shock absorbent material, such as rubber, to prevent damage to the bridge 300 resulting from impact when the bridge 300 is received by the tank 200. Figure 3 shows an alternative embodiment of the bridge 3000 being lowered into an alternative embodiment of the tank 2000 to, along with a set of spray assemblies 4000, form the first wheel wash apparatus. Figure 3 further shows a first panel 6000.

The first 201 and second 202 wall portions may be angled, as in Figure 1 , to facilitate reception of the bridge 300 by the tank 300. To correspond to the angled first 200 and second 202 wall portions, the piers 311 , 312 may have a complementary tapered form, as shown in Figure 2. As alluded to in relation to the function of the first side panel 600, in order to wash a vehicle received by the bridge 300, the first wheel wash apparatus also comprises a set of spray assemblies, including a first spray assembly 401. Figure 2 shows the first spray assembly 401 attached to one of the sides of the bridge 300, the first spray assembly 401 being perpendicular to the direction of travel of a vehicle across the bridge 300 and parallel to the first panel 600 in the first arrangement. A spray assembly may comprise a frame formed of or comprising tubing, pipework or other hollow material in which apertures or nozzles have been made or included, such that water passes through and is sprayed through the apertures as a result of water pressure in the tubing, for example. The area of the apertures may be changed to change the volume of water sprayed or the area of a vehicle sprayed with water.

The first spray assembly 401 may be built as a single or integrated unit together with the bridge 300 that allows for the simple lifting out of its entire internal workings.

The first spray assembly 401 may be constructed to maintain the pressure of water being forced from the open apertures in the tubing, which may be, for example fabricated from steel or plastic, by way of reducing diameter pipework. Pipework may typically start at a diameter of 100mm near the pump and reduce to 75mm through the first spray assembly.

The first spray assembly 401 may comprise a pump (not shown) arranged to, in use, pump water to the wheel wash apparatus. For example, the pump may pump water to the first spray assembly 401 via an inlet 410 in order that a vehicle passing over the bridge 300 is sprayed with water from the first spray assembly 300.

The set of spray assemblies may include a second spray assembly 402, opposed to the first spray assembly 401 , as shown in Figure 2. The first spray assembly 401 may be fluidically coupled to the second spray assembly 402. By having more than one spray assembly and, in particular, by having opposing spray assemblies, more than one side of the vehicles crossing the bridge can be sprayed with water so that the vehicle is thoroughly cleaned. For example, both sets of wheels of the vehicles can be sprayed simultaneously by the first 401 and the second 402 spray assemblies.

The deck 301 of the bridge 300, as shown in Figure 2, may include one or more perforations 302 therethrough. For example, the bridge 300 may comprise a grid. By means of these perforations 302, such as those provided by a grid, water that has been sprayed onto a vehicle by the set of spray assemblies drains from the grid, and, when the first wheel wash apparatus is in the first arrangement, into the tank 200. The perforations 302 may be any shape and can be regular or irregular in their spatial frequency.

As shown in Figure, 2 the wheel wash assembly may comprise a weir 340. The weir 340 serves to define a set of water settlement regions. Specifically, the weir defines a set of water settlement regions comprising a first water settlement region and a second water settlement region, in the tank 200 in the first arrangement.

The first water settlement region corresponds to the part of the tank 200 below the bridge 300, including the part of the tank below the deck 301 of the bridge 300. As a result, water that has been sprayed on a vehicle passing over the bridge 300 passes through the perforations 302 and into the first water settlement region of the tank 200. This water is contaminated by any debris washed from the vehicle during the cleaning process in which the vehicle is sprayed with water by the spray assembly. A bridge 300 may be used that has a deck 301 with perforations 302 chosen based on the size of debris a user wishes to be washed into the first water settlement region. The second water settlement region corresponds to the part of the tank 200 not below the bridge.

The weir 340 forms a water tight barrier between the first water settlement region and the second water settlement region over which water can flow. The weir 340 may be of complementary width in relation to a space formed by the deck 301 and the piers 311 , 312 of the bridge 300. The weir 340 regulates the flow of water from the first settlement region to the second settlement region. As water flows over the top of the weir 340 from the first settlement region to the second settlement region, debris contaminating the water is left behind in the first settlement region while the second water settlement region receives waste water that can be recirculated. Waste water may be recirculated by the set of spray assemblies, thereby reducing consumption of water. For example, the first spray assembly 401 may be connected to a pump situated the second water settlement region via a Bauer type coupling or alike.

When the first settlement region becomes full of debris, the debris can be removed from the first settlement region. Debris may be removed by, for example, lifting the bridge 300 or deck 301 from the tank 300, or by accessing the first water settlement region through the perforations 302. Debris may be removed manually or using machinery. In particular, by changing the first wheel wash apparatus from the first arrangement to the second arrangement debris can be easily removed from the tank 200.

While description of the wheel wash assembly has herein only been described with reference to a single wheel wash apparatus, which has been denoted a first wheel wash apparatus, the wheel wash assembly may comprise a set of wheel wash apparatuses. For example, the wheel wash assembly may include a second wheel wash apparatus which corresponds to the first wheel wash apparatus in its configuration.

In the case of the wheel wash assembly comprising a first wheel wash apparatus and a second wheel wash apparatus, the wheel wash assembly is configurable in a first configuration and a second configuration. In the first configuration the first wheel wash apparatus and the second wheel wash apparatus are adjacent. In the second configuration the first wheel wash apparatus and the second wheel wash apparatus are spaced mutually apart. The first configuration means that the assembly is large enough to wash longer vehicles than in the second configuration. Both the first configuration and the second configuration mean that more than one vehicle may be washed simultaneously.

Figure 4 schematically depicts a side view of a wheel wash assembly 1 according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 4 includes the first wheel wash assembly 101 , a second wheel wash assembly 102, a third wheel wash assembly 103 and a fourth wheel wash assembly 104 adjacent to each other.

The wheel wash assembly 1 may comprise a set of entry ramps 51 and/or a set of exit ramps 52. The wheel wash assembly of Figure 4 comprises a first set of entry ramps 51 and a first set of exit ramps 52, which respectively enable vehicles to enter the first wheel wash apparatus 101 and exit from the fourth wheel wash apparatus 102. The set of entry ramps 51 and/or the set of exit ramps 52 may be attached, for example releasably, to the respective wheel wash apparatuses 101 , 104. The use of ramps 51 , 52 avoids the need to change the ground level in order to allow vehicles to drive through the wheel wash assembly 1 .

Figure 5 schematically depicts a plan view of a wheel wash assembly 1 of Figure 4 according to an exemplary embodiment. As mentioned, the second 102, third 103 and fourth 104 wheel wash apparatuses may correspond to the first wheel wash apparatus 101 or, as in Figure 5, they may not have a second water settlement region, because each of the first water settlement regions 112, 113, 114 of the second 102, third 103 and fourth 104 wheel wash apparatuses are fluidically coupled to the second water settlement region 121 of the first wheel wash apparatus. Figure 5 also shows a reservoir 70 fluidically coupled to the tank 200 of the first wheel wash apparatus 101. For example, the wheel wash assembly 1 may comprise a reservoir 70 remote from the tank 200 of the first wheel wash apparatus 101 that is connected to the tank 200 via a flexible pipe. The remote reservoir 70 provides extra capacity for holding water for use in the washing of vehicles.

The first spray assembly 401 of the first wheel wash apparatus 101 in Figures 4 and 5 may be fluidically coupled to the first spray assembly of the second 102, third 103 and fourth 104 wheel wash apparatuses. Similarly, the tank 200 of the first wheel wash apparatus 101 is fluidically coupled to the tank of the second 102, third 103 and fourth 104 wheel wash apparatuses. This coupling increases efficiency with respect to running cost, power usage and fuel consumption. Furthermore, this coupling reduces noise, because, for example, there is only one pump/engine/generator required, and minimises the amount of equipment needed. Resultingly, the wheel wash assembly 1 described is easier to maintain than current standard wheel washes.

The tubing of one or more of each of the set of spray assemblies may have a terminator with a cap or coupling that allows for the simple connection of additional flexible pipes to the addition of wash apparatuses at either end of the first wash assembly. In additional wash apparatuses the diameter of the tubing, for example, may reduce to 50mm to maintain water pressure.

The length of the deck 301 (for example, between the opposed first and second wall portions) may be at most a width of the deck. Consequently, as the maximum length of the deck 301 is the same as the width of the deck 301 , the wheel wash assembly 1 may be provided in a form, such as a flat pack, in which the dimensions of the flat pack are minimised.

The modular configuration of the wheel wash assembly 1 means that transportation of the wheel wash assembly 1 is easier than currently available standard fixed length wheel washes. The modular configuration of the wheel wash assembly 1 also means that shorter vehicles (e.g. trucks) can be used to transport the components of the wheel wash assembly 1 and smaller capacity cranes and lifting mechanisms are required. Therefore, the wheel wash assembly 1 is safer to lift, carry and install than a standard fixed length wheel wash.

As additional wheel wash apparatuses can be added to the wheel wash assembly 1 , the duration of a wash received by a vehicle can also be increased for a vehicle travelling at a given speed by adding extra wheel wash apparatuses in the first configuration. Moreover, the ability to add wheel wash apparatuses means that the size of the wheel wash assembly 1 can be adapted to different sized sites.

As the deck 301 and the set of spray assemblies can be removed from the wheel wash apparatuses, for example from the first wheel wash apparatus 101 , the first water settlement region can be cleaned of debris without the risk of damage to the set of spray assemblies or other components, unlike standard wheel wash assemblies.

In summary, the invention provides a wheel wash assembly 1 that allows debris to be easily removed. In addition, the wheel wash assembly allows recycling of water, may be easily transported and assembled and/or a size of which may be adjusted and customised.

Although a preferred embodiment has been shown and described, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications might be made without departing from the scope of the invention, as defined in the appended claims and as described above.

Attention is directed to all papers and documents which are filed concurrently with or previous to this specification in connection with this application and which are open to public inspection with this specification, and the contents of all such papers and documents are incorporated herein by reference.

All of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims and drawings), and/or all of the steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any combination, except combinations where at most some of such features and/or steps are mutually exclusive.

Each feature disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, and drawings) may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent or similar purpose, unless expressly stated otherwise. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is one example only of a generic series of equivalent or similar features.

The invention is not restricted to the details of the foregoing embodiment(s). The invention extends to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims and drawings), or to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the steps of any method or process so disclosed.