Automated car wash system

Abstract

This invention is an automated system and method for washing automobiles. The invention provides a device which sprays liquid onto the vehicle, while closely following the general contour of the vehicle. The system determines that contour by analyzing and recording patterns of broken light beams when the vehicle passes by an array of photoelectric sensors. The system uses the stored information about the contour of the vehicle to control the movement of a spray bar which contains a set of nozzles. As the vehicle is pulled into the washing area by a conveyor, the spray bar initially moves with the vehicle, spraying the front grill while maintaining a constant distance from the vehicle. Then, the spray bar reverses direction, while the vehicle continues to move forward. The spray bar then travels around the vehicle contour, while adjusting the direction of the nozzles so that the liquid flows in the proper direction. After having traced the entire contour, the spray bar reverses direction again. The spray bar now follows the vehicle, spraying liquid towards the rear fender, until the washing cycle is complete. The spray bar oscillates axially while spraying, to insure that the liquid will reach a large area. The invention also includes a unique shifting mechanism which adjusts the axial position of the spray bar, and thus determines the center of the axial oscillations. The apparatus is preferably controlled by a microprocessor, or its equivalent.