U.S. patent application number 13/801600 was filed with the patent office on 2013-08-01 for tank system for producing bubbles and illuminating the bubbles as they fall from the tank onto a passing vehicle.
The applicant listed for this patent is G. Thomas Ennis. Invention is credited to G. Thomas Ennis.
Application Number | 20130192643 13/801600 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 48869207 |
Filed Date | 2013-08-01 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130192643 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Ennis; G. Thomas |
August 1, 2013 |
TANK SYSTEM FOR PRODUCING BUBBLES AND ILLUMINATING THE BUBBLES AS
THEY FALL FROM THE TANK ONTO A PASSING VEHICLE
Abstract
A tank system is described for dropping fluid onto a passing
vehicle. The tank system includes a tank with a fluid supply inlet.
Optionally, a soap injector is included for injecting soap into the
water flow to create a fluid mix that is supplied to the tank. A
lighting system is attached to the tank. The fluid mix, or any
other chemical in the tank, may be heated with the heating unit. An
air motor is included for providing air to an air manifold that is
disposed within the tank. When air is introduced into the fluid
mix, bubbles are created. As the fluid mix and bubbles fill the
tank, they fall from the tank via an overflow lip, with the fluid
mix and/or bubbles being illuminated by the lighting system as they
fall onto a vehicle passing below.
Inventors: |
Ennis; G. Thomas;
(Inglewood, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Ennis; G. Thomas |
Inglewood |
CA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
48869207 |
Appl. No.: |
13/801600 |
Filed: |
March 13, 2013 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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12655328 |
Dec 29, 2009 |
|
|
|
13801600 |
|
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|
61613612 |
Mar 21, 2012 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
134/18 ; 134/105;
134/115R |
Current CPC
Class: |
B05C 5/001 20130101;
B05D 1/34 20130101; B60S 3/04 20130101; B08B 3/10 20130101; B01F
3/04446 20130101; B08B 3/041 20130101; B01F 3/04241 20130101; B05C
5/00 20130101; B01F 15/0277 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
134/18 ;
134/115.R; 134/105 |
International
Class: |
B08B 3/04 20060101
B08B003/04 |
Claims
1. A tank system for dropping water onto a passing vehicle,
comprising: a tank, the tank having a trough portion and an
overflow lip; a support system connected with the tank for
elevating the tank above a ground surface to allow a vehicle to
pass beneath the tank; a fluid supply inlet fluidly connected with
the trough portion of the tank for receiving a fluid flow from an
external fluid source and introducing fluid into the tank; and a
light system attached with the tank, the light system having a
light element to direct light toward a fluid as it falls from the
tank, whereby upon receiving fluid, the trough portion collects the
fluid until the fluid reaches the overflow lip, at which point the
fluid flows over the overflow lip and falls from the tank onto a
passing vehicle, such that upon falling from the tank, the fluid is
illuminated by the light system.
2. The tank system as set forth in claim 1, further comprising: a
soap injector fluidly connected with the fluid supply inlet for
injecting soap into the fluid flow to create a soap mix that is
supplied to the tank; an air manifold positioned in the trough
portion of the tank; and an air motor fluidly connected with the
air manifold to introduce air through the air manifold and into the
soap mix, whereby upon receiving the soap mix and air, bubbles are
created that fill the tank until reaching the overflow lip, at
which point the bubbles and soap mix flow over the overflow lip and
fall onto a passing vehicle.
3. The tank system as set forth in claim 2, wherein the light
element includes a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) such
that light emitted from the LEDs is directed toward the fluid
falling from the tank.
4. The tank system as set forth in claim 3, wherein the light
system includes a front signage.
5. The tank system as set forth in claim 4, wherein the light
element includes multi-colored LEDs that are directed downward to
illuminate a falling fluid, such that when the falling fluid is
illuminated by the multi-colored LEDs, the falling fluid simulates
the appearance of falling lava.
6. The tank system as set forth in claim 5, further comprising a
heating system for heating the fluid within the tank.
7. The tank system as set forth in claim 6, wherein the heating
system further comprises: a heating element to heat the fluid; a
temperature sensor to sense the temperature of the fluid; a
temperature switch to control the operability of the heating
element; and a low liquid level switch to turn off the heating
element if the fluid in the tank falls below a predetermined
threshold.
8. The tank system as set forth in claim 7, further comprising a
curtain attached with the tank such that it hangs from the tank
proximate the overflow lip.
9. The tank system as set forth in claim 8, further comprising a
mechanical float valve operably connected with the fluid supply
inlet, the float valve adapted to close upon the fluid exceeding a
predetermined level within the tank and to open upon the fluid
falling below the predetermined level.
10. The tank system as set forth in claim 9, wherein the tank
includes two troughs with a drop opening positioned therebetween,
such that each trough includes an air manifold.
11. The tank system as set forth in claim 1, further comprising a
heating system for heating the fluid within the tank.
12. The tank system as set forth in claim 11, wherein the heating
system further comprises: a heating element to heat the fluid; a
temperature sensor to sense the temperature of the fluid; a
temperature switch to control the operability of the heating
element; and a low liquid level switch to turn off the heating
element if the fluid in the tank falls below a predetermined
threshold.
13. The tank system as set forth in claim 12, wherein the external
fluid source includes wax, such that the fluid introduced to the
tank includes wax, whereby when in the tank, the heating system
heats the wax to generate a hot wax that falls from the tank onto a
passing vehicle.
14. The tank system as set forth in claim 1, wherein the tank
includes two troughs with a drop opening positioned therebetween,
such that each trough includes an air manifold.
15. A tank system for dropping water onto a passing vehicle,
comprising: a tank, the tank having a trough portion and an
overflow lip; a support system connected with the tank for
elevating the tank above a ground surface to allow a vehicle to
pass beneath the tank; a fluid supply inlet fluidly connected with
the trough portion of the tank for receiving a fluid flow from an
external fluid source and introducing fluid into the tank; and a
heating system attached with the tank for heating fluid that is
within the tank, whereby upon receiving fluid, the trough portion
collects the fluid, which is heated by the heating system, until
the fluid reaches the overflow lip, at which point the fluid flows
over the overflow lip and falls from the tank onto a passing
vehicle.
16. The tank system as set forth in claim 15, further comprising a
light system attached with the tank, the light system having a
light element to direct light toward a fluid as it falls from the
tank, whereby upon receiving fluid, the trough portion collects the
fluid until the fluid reaches the overflow lip, at which point the
fluid flows over the overflow lip and falls from the tank onto a
passing vehicle, such that upon falling from the tank, the fluid is
illuminated by the light system.
17. The tank system as set forth in claim 16, further comprising: a
soap injector fluidly connected with the fluid supply inlet for
injecting soap into the fluid flow to create a soap mix that is
supplied to the tank; an air manifold positioned in the trough
portion of the tank; and an air motor fluidly connected with the
air manifold to introduce air through the air manifold and into the
soap mix, whereby upon receiving the soap mix and air, bubbles are
created that fill the tank until reaching the overflow lip, at
which point the bubbles and soap mix flow over the overflow lip and
fall onto a passing vehicle.
18. A method for dispensing and illuminating a fluid as it falls
onto a passing vehicle, comprising acts of: injecting soap into a
water flow to create a soap mix; supplying the soap mix to a tank
having a trough portion and an overflow lip; introducing air into
the soap mix to generate bubbles; collecting the soap mix and
bubbles in the trough portion until the soap mix and bubbles reach
the overflow lip, at which point the bubbles and soap mix flow over
the overflow lip and onto a passing vehicle; and illuminating the
bubbles and soap mix as it falls from the overflow lip onto a
passing vehicle.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This is a Continuation-in-Part application of U.S.
Non-Provisional application Ser. No. 12/655,328, filed on Dec. 29,
2009, entitled, "Bubble tank system." This application is ALSO a
non-provisional application of U.S. Provisional Application Ser.
No. 61/613,612, filed on Mar. 21, 2012, and entitled, "Bubble Tank
System For Producing Bubbles And Illuminating The Bubbles As They
Fall From The Tank To Simulate Falling Lava On A Passing
Vehicle."
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] (1) Field of Invention
[0003] The present invention relates to a bubble tank and, more
particularly, to a bubble tank system for generating bubbles and
illuminating the bubbles as they fall from the bubble tank onto a
passing vehicle.
[0004] (2) Description of Related Art
[0005] Vehicle washing systems have long been known in the art. By
way of example, automatic vehicle-washing systems are well-known
and are in widespread use for washing passenger automobiles,
trucks, buses, railroad equipment, and the like. A typical system
includes a conveyor for moving the vehicle through the
installation, and a series of power-driven brushes which are moved
around the vehicle under a drenching spray of water and soap or
detergent to remove dirt and grease. The washed vehicle is given a
spray of clean rinse water, and is then moved to a drying
station.
[0006] While such drenching spray systems are operable for
introducing soap and water to a passing vehicle, they require
multiple spray heads, each of which is prone to breakage and
maintenance. Additionally, typical spray heads introduce a low
volume to the passing vehicle and, therefore, are operated under
high pressure to be effective. Further, due to the pumps that are
required to operate such spray systems, traditional drenching spray
systems utilize a lot of electricity and are otherwise not
environmentally sensitive. Such spray systems do not evenly
distribute the solution as any distribution is largely limited to
the location and reach of the spray heads. Finally, typical spray
systems do not include unique light systems that provide for a
variety of lighting effects.
[0007] Thus, a continuing need exists for an environmentally
sensitive system for introducing a relatively large volume of soap
and water (i.e., bubbles) to a passing vehicle without the need for
multiple, high-pressure spray heads. A need also exists for a
system that illuminates the bubbles as they fall from the system
onto the passing vehicle to provide for a variety of lighting
effects.
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
[0008] While considering the failure of others to make and/or use
all of the above factors/ingredients/steps/components in this
technology space, the inventor unexpectedly realized that a bubble
tank system can be employed to introduce a large volume of water,
soap, and bubbles to a passing vehicle without the need for
multiple high-pressure spray heads and, thereby provide for an even
distribution of water, soap, etc., to the passing vehicle.
[0009] Further, when illuminating the bubbles as they fall from the
tank system, it was unexpectedly realized that the bubbles provide
the appearance of actual lava. Thus, in addition to being a bubble
tank system, the present invention is also directed to a bubble
tank system for generating bubbles and illuminating the bubbles as
they fall from the bubble tank onto a passing vehicle.
[0010] The system includes a tank having a trough portion and an
overflow lip of any desired width (e.g., that is at least as wide
as a passing vehicle). A support system is connected with the tank
for elevating the tank above a ground surface to allow a vehicle to
pass beneath the tank. A fluid supply inlet is fluidly connected
with the trough portion of the tank for receiving a fluid flow from
an external fluid source and introducing fluid into the tank.
Further, a light system is attached with the tank. The light system
includes a light element to direct light toward a fluid as it falls
from the tank, whereby upon receiving fluid, the trough portion
collects the fluid until the fluid reaches the overflow lip, at
which point the fluid flows over the overflow lip and falls from
the tank onto a passing vehicle, such that upon falling from the
tank, the fluid is illuminated by the light system.
[0011] In another aspect, the tank system includes a soap injector
fluidly connected with the fluid supply inlet for injecting soap
into the fluid flow to create a soap mix that is supplied to the
tank. In this aspect, an air manifold is positioned in the trough
portion of the tank. Additionally, an air motor is fluidly
connected with the air manifold to introduce air through the air
manifold and into the soap mix, whereby upon receiving the soap mix
and air, bubbles are created that fill the tank until reaching the
overflow lip, at which point the bubbles and soap mix flow over the
overflow lip and fall onto a passing vehicle.
[0012] In yet another aspect, the light element includes a
plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) such that light emitted
from the LEDs is directed toward the fluid falling from the tank.
In another aspect, the light system includes a front signage.
[0013] In another aspect, the light element includes multi-colored
LEDs that are directed downward to illuminate a falling fluid, such
that when the falling fluid is illuminated by the multi-colored
LEDs, the falling fluid simulates the appearance of falling
lava.
[0014] In yet another aspect, the tank system includes a heating
system for heating the fluid within the tank. The heating system
further comprises a heating element to heat the fluid; a
temperature sensor to sense the temperature of the fluid; a
temperature switch to control the operability of the heating
element; and a low liquid level switch to turn off the heating
element if the fluid in the tank falls below a predetermined
threshold.
[0015] In another aspect, a curtain is attached with the tank such
that it hangs from the tank proximate the overflow lip.
[0016] Additionally, a mechanical float valve is operably connected
with the fluid supply inlet. The float valve is adapted to close
upon the fluid exceeding a predetermined level within the tank and
to open upon the fluid falling below the predetermined level.
[0017] In another aspect, the tank includes two troughs with a drop
opening positioned therebetween, such that each trough includes an
air manifold.
[0018] In another aspect, the external fluid source includes wax,
chemicals, soap, water, or any combination thereof. For example, if
wax, when in the tank, the heating system heats the wax to generate
a hot wax that falls from the tank onto a passing vehicle.
[0019] Finally, as can be appreciated by one in the art, the
present invention also comprises a method for forming and using the
tank system described herein. The method comprises a plurality of
acts of forming and operating the tank system.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0020] The objects, features and advantages of the present
invention will be apparent from the following detailed descriptions
of the various aspects of the invention in conjunction with
reference to the following drawings, where:
[0021] FIG. 1 is an elevated, perspective-view illustration of a
bubble tank system according to the principles of the present
invention;
[0022] FIG. 2A is a left, side-view illustration of the bubble tank
system;
[0023] FIG. 2B is a right, side-view illustration of the bubble
tank system;
[0024] FIG. 3 is a rear-view illustration of the bubble tank
system;
[0025] FIG. 4 is a front-view illustration of the bubble tank
system;
[0026] FIG. 5 is an elevated, perspective-view illustration of the
bubble tank system and its support system, depicting a lid of the
tank system in an open position;
[0027] FIG. 6 is an elevated, perspective-view illustration of the
bubble tank system and its support system, depicting a lid of the
tank system in a closed position;
[0028] FIG. 7 is an elevated, perspective-view illustration of the
bubble tank system, depicting the system in operation;
[0029] FIG. 8 is an elevated, perspective-view illustration of the
bubble tank system according to the principles of the present
invention, depicting a light system, an electric control panel and
a heating system;
[0030] FIG. 9 is an elevated, rear perspective-view illustration of
the bubble tank system;
[0031] FIG. 10 is a front-view illustration of the light system and
bubble tank system;
[0032] FIG. 11 is an illustration of the bubble tank system,
depicting an aspect where the tank is cylindrical;
[0033] FIG. 12A is an illustration of the bubble tank system,
depicting an aspect where the fluid falls from below the bubble
tank system;
[0034] FIG. 12B is a cross-sectional view illustration of the
bubble tank system as depicted in FIG. 12A; and
[0035] FIG. 13 is an interior-view illustration of the bubble tank
system depicted in FIG. 12A to illustrate the flow of fluid as it
falls from the bubble tank system.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0036] The following description is presented to enable one of
ordinary skill in the art to make and use the invention and to
incorporate it in the context of particular applications. Various
modifications, as well as a variety of uses in different
applications will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art,
and the general principles defined herein may be applied to a wide
range of embodiments. Thus, the present invention is not intended
to be limited to the embodiments presented, but is to be accorded
the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features
disclosed herein.
[0037] In the following detailed description, numerous specific
details are set forth in order to provide a more thorough
understanding of the present invention. However, it will be
apparent to one skilled in the art that the present invention may
be practiced without necessarily being limited to these specific
details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are
shown in block diagram form, rather than in detail, in order to
avoid obscuring the present invention.
[0038] The reader's attention is directed to all papers and
documents which are filed concurrently with this specification 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 the features disclosed in this
specification, (including any accompanying claims, abstract, 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
only one example of a generic series of equivalent or similar
features.
[0039] Furthermore, any element in a claim that does not explicitly
state "means for" performing a specified function, or "step for"
performing a specific function, is not to be interpreted as a
"means" or "step" clause as specified in 35 U.S.C. Section 112,
Paragraph 6. In particular, the use of "step of" or "act of" in the
claims herein is not intended to invoke the provisions of 35 U.S.C.
112, Paragraph 6.
(1) DESCRIPTION
[0040] As shown in FIG. 1, the present invention is a bubble tank
system 100 that provides an improvement over the prior art by using
a tank 102 to collect water and a soap mix (or any other fluid),
which then overflows to provide a gravity-fed waterfall that dumps
a relatively large volume of water and bubbles (and/or other
fluids, e.g., wax) onto a passing vehicle.
[0041] In this aspect, the bubble tank system 100 includes a tank
102 having a trough portion 104 and an overflow lip 106. The trough
portion 104 acts as a trough to collect water (and/or other fluids)
that is introduced into the tank 102 from a supply inlet 108 (e.g.,
water supply and/or chemical, wax, etc). The supply inlet 108 is
fluidly connected (e.g., via piping) with the trough portion 104.
In operation, the supply inlet 108 receives fluid (e.g., water)
from an external source and introduces the fluid into the tank 102
where it gathers in the trough portion 104. It should be understood
that although the system as described uses water, the present
invention is not intended to be limited thereto as it can be used
with any fluid and/or fluid source. Thus, the supply inlet 108 is,
in its broadest form, a fluid supply inlet, with water being but
one non-limiting example. Other non-limiting examples of which
include wax, chemicals, soap mix, etc.
[0042] Upon receiving water, the trough portion 104 collects the
water until the water level reaches the overflow lip 106, at which
point the water flows over the overflow lip 106 and falls from the
tank 102 onto a passing vehicle (as depicted in FIG. 7). The
overflow lip 106 is approximately level or at an angle, or
undulated across its entire width. For example, if level, the water
flowing over the overflow lip 106 will not gather and drain at one
side or point and, instead, will fall evenly from the overflow lip
106. Alternatively, if formed at an angle or with undulations, the
water falls from the tank according to the angle or shape of
undulations.
[0043] In addition to providing water (or wax, etc.) onto a passing
vehicle, the present invention provides soap and bubbles to said
vehicle. The soap or any other chemicals can be added to the fluid
in the tank 102 using any suitable mechanism or device. As a
non-limiting example and as depicted in FIG. 1, a soap injector 110
is fluidly connected with the water supply inlet 108 for injecting
soap (from a soap line 111) into the water flow to create a soap
mix that is supplied to the tank 102. The soap injector 110 is any
suitable mechanism or device for injecting/dispensing soap into a
water flow, a non-limiting example of which includes an
injector/dispenser as produced by Viking LLC, a DEMA Company,
located at 512 Industrial Road, Nesquehoning, Pa. 18240, United
States of America.
[0044] To create bubbles (e.g., soap bubbles), an air manifold 112
is positioned in the trough portion 104 of the tank 102. An air
motor 114 is fluidly connected with the air manifold 112 to
introduce air through the air manifold 112 and into the soap mix.
The air motor 114 is any suitable mechanism or device that is
operable for pumping air, a non-limiting example of which includes
a 1.5 horse power (HP), 120 Volt Alternating Current (VAC) electric
air motor. Upon receiving the soap mix and air, bubbles are created
that fill the tank 102 until reaching the overflow lip 106, at
which point the bubbles and soap mix flow over the overflow lip 106
and onto a passing vehicle (as depicted in FIG. 7).
[0045] Referring again to the air manifold 112, the manifold is any
suitable mechanism or device that is operable for receiving air and
distributing the air into a fluid (e.g., soap mix), a non-limiting
example of which includes a two-inch polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipe.
The air manifold 112 is perforated to allow air that is introduced
into the manifold 112 from the air motor 114 to escape into the
soap mix. As a non-limiting example, the perforated air manifold
112 is an elongated pipe manifold with a top half and a bottom
half, with two rows of holes formed along the top half and a single
row of holes formed along the bottom half (e.g., facing
downward).
[0046] To control the amount of water and soap (and the
corresponding soap mix) that is introduced to the tank, a volume
control valve 116 is operably connected with the water supply. As a
non-limiting example, the volume control valve 116 is a mechanical
float valve that is operably connected with water supply inlet to
close upon the soap mix exceeding a predetermined level within the
tank and to open upon the soap mix falling below the predetermined
level.
[0047] In operation, as bubbles flow from the overflow lip 106,
they fall onto a passing car. However, wind and other air
turbulence can sometimes affect the fall of the bubbles. As such, a
curtain 118 is attached with the tank 102 to block such air
turbulence and prevent the falling bubbles from blowing
uncontrollably away from a car surface. For example, the curtain
118 hangs from the tank 102 proximate the overflow lip 106 is
formed of any suitably durable and semi-rigid material, a
non-limiting example of which includes vinyl. Thus, the curtain 118
allows the bubbles to freely fall, yet blocks wind and other air
turbulence.
[0048] As noted above, wind and other air turbulence can sometimes
affect the fall of the bubbles. To control the flow of water and
bubbles from the tank 102, a flow director 119 can be connected
with the overflow lip 106 to direct water and bubbles that are
flowing over the overflow lip 106. The flow director 119 is any
suitable mechanism or device that is capable of directing the flow
from the overflow lip 106, a non-limiting example of which includes
a pair of pivoting arms. For example, a first pivoting arm 119A and
a second pivoting arm 119B are pivotally connected with the
overflow lip 106 such that they can independently reside on the
overflow lip 106 to narrow a width of flow of fluid flowing over
the overflow lip 106. Alternatively, each of the pivoting arms 119A
and 119B can pivot away from the overflow lip 106 to increase the
width of flow of water (and bubbles, soap mix, etc.) flowing over
the overflow lip 106. In other words, the pivoting arms 119A and
119B operate to alter the flow of water by decreasing or increasing
the width of the overflow lip 106 (or at least the portion of the
overflow lip 106 from which the water can escape and flow)
[0049] By narrowing the portion of the overflow lip 106 from which
water escapes, the thickness or depth of the water is increased
(due the volume of water remaining relatively constant). As such,
the sheet of water that now falls from the overflow lip 106 is
thicker and less susceptible to air turbulence.
[0050] Alternatively, in a situation of low air turbulence, it may
be desirable to pivot the pivoting arms 119A and 119B away from the
overflow lip 106 to maximize the width of the overflow lip 106 (or
the portion of the overflow lip 106 from which water escapes) and,
thereby, the width of falling fluid. In this example, the depth of
fluid that flows over the overflow lip 106 is thinner (than the
circumstance described above), which creates a thinner, yet wider,
fall of fluid.
[0051] Additionally, a lid 120 is attached with the tank 102 to
cover the tank 102 yet allow selective access thereto. For example,
the lid 120 is pivotally connected with the tank 102 via hinges 122
or any other suitable connection.
[0052] For further understanding, FIG. 2A is a left, side-view
illustration of the bubble tank system 100. As shown, the tank 102
includes a hingedly connected lid 120. Also shown are the water
supply inlet 108 and the soap injector 110, and the curtain 118 for
blocking wind and air turbulence. Alternatively, FIG. 2B is a
right, side-view illustration of the tank system 100, depicting the
tank 102, lid 120, curtain 118, and air motor 114.
[0053] Additionally, FIG. 3 is a rear-view illustration of the
bubble tank system 100, showing the tank 102, curtain 118, air
motor 114, and lid 120.
[0054] FIG. 4 provides yet another view of the bubble tank system
100, showing a front-view that illustrates the tank 102, curtain
118, lid 120 and air motor 114. Also shown is the overflow lip 106,
which is depicted at a level that is below the top 400 of the tank
102. The tank 102 is bound on all sides by walls that rise to a
first level 402 (except at the overflow lip 106). The first level
402 is the top 400 of the tank 102, while the overflow lip 106 is
at a second level 404 that is below the top 400 of the tank 102.
Water, soap mix, bubbles, etc., that rise above the second level
404 will flow from the tank 102 via the overflow lip 106. Thus, the
fluid level in the tank will never reach the first level 402 or the
top 400 of the tank 102 as the fluid will always drain via the
overflow lip 106.
[0055] Pivoting arms 119A and 119B are shown residing on top of the
overflow lip 106. As can be appreciated by one skilled in the art
and as described above, the flow director (e.g., pivoting arms 119A
and 119B) is used to alter the width 400 of the flow that flows
over the overflow lip 106. Such width 400 control can be used to
manage the thickness (or depth) of the flow of fluid that falls
from the tank 102.
[0056] As shown in FIG. 5, the bubble tank system 100 is formed
such that the tank 102 is elevated (using a support system 502)
above a ground surface 500 to allow a vehicle to pass beneath the
tank 102. The support system 502 is any suitable mechanism or
device for elevating the tank 102. As a non-limiting example, the
support system 502 includes a set of posts connected with the tank
102 (to raise the tank 102 above the ground surface 500). The posts
are of any suitable height to allow a vehicle to pass below the
tank 102, a non-limiting example of which includes being 10 feet
tall. As yet another non-limiting example, the support system 502
includes a set of brackets for attaching the tank 102 to a lateral
wall surface such that the tank 102 is elevated sufficiently.
[0057] FIG. 6 depicts the bubble tank system 100 with the lid 120
in a closed position to cover the tank 102.
[0058] FIG. 7 depicts the bubble tank system 100 in operation. As
shown, the tank 102 is elevated above the ground surface 500
through the support system 502. The tank 102 is elevated
sufficiently to allow a vehicle 700 to pass below the tank 102.
Upon introducing water, soap, and air to the tank 102, a soap mix
is formed with bubbles 702. After reaching the level of the
overflow lip (not shown), the soap mix/water (and bubbles 702) flow
over the overflow lip and sheet 704 from the tank 102 onto the
passing vehicle 700. The tank 102 and overflow lip themselves are
of a sufficient size to have a width 706 that is as least as wide
as the passing vehicle 700. As a non-limiting example, the width is
greater than 48 inches and less than 144 inches. Thus, using the
present invention, a vehicle can safely pass below the tank 102 to
receive a relatively even distribution of a large volume of soap,
water, and bubbles without the need for multiple, high-pressure
spray heads.
[0059] FIG. 8 depicts another aspect of the bubble tank system 100
in which a light system 804 and heating system are included. In
this rear-view illustration, several internal components of the
tank system 100 are also depicted. Specifically, the heating system
is any suitable mechanism or device that is operable for heating
the fluid within the tank 102. As a non-limiting example and as
shown, the heating system includes a heating element 812, a low
liquid level switch 810, a temperature sensor 808 (e.g., switch
thermostat capillary tube), an adjustable temperature switch 806,
and an electric control panel 802. Also depicted is a mechanical
fill float 814, which is described in further detail below.
[0060] The electric control panel 802 is operatively connected (via
a wired or wireless connection) to the light system 804. While the
light system 804 can be self contained, it is desirable to have the
light system 804 controlled by a more easily accessible component,
such as the control panel 802. The electric control panel 802
controls the features and functions of the light system 804. For
example, the light system 804 can be formed to direct light down
toward the falling bubbles and, in another aspect, can also be
formed to illuminate signage and operate as a sign (such as a
flashing light sign). Thus, the electric control panel 802 can
control which lights (or colors) operate and what effects they
provide, etc. As non-limiting examples, the sign may flash the type
of car wash the user is receiving, the wax treatment they are
receiving, the name of the business of the carwash, or even a funny
quote. The light system 804 is attached to the tank 102 using any
suitable mechanism or technique. As a non-limiting example, the
light system 804 is bolted to the tank 102 (via a bracket 820) and
is positioned slightly forward from the overflow lip 106. Because
it is slightly forward from the overflow lip 106, bubbles falling
from the overflow lip 106 fall beneath the light system 804 for
illumination.
[0061] The electric control panel 802 is also operatively connected
to the air motor 114. Upon receiving a signal from the electric
control panel 802, the electric air motor 114 introduces air
through the air manifold 112 and into the soap mix. The chemical
(e.g., soap or wax) is located in the chemical container 818 and is
optionally mixed with water (introduced via a water line 819) at an
injector 816 (e.g., a non-limiting example of such an injector is a
Dosatron injector). The fluid is pumped to the tank 102 through the
mechanical fill float 814. Bubbles are created that fill the tank
102 until reaching the overflow lip 106, at which point the bubbles
fall from the tank 102. It should be understood the chemical can
alternatively be wax or any other chemical that is directly
provided to the tank with or without the addition of water or any
other fluid.
[0062] An adjustable temperature switch 806 has a temperature
sensor 808 which is located toward the bottom of the tank 102 and
is communicatively connected (e.g., via wired or wirelessly) to the
electric control panel 802. The temperature sensor 808 senses fluid
temperature and automatically controls the heating element 812
inside the tank 102 to turn on (i.e., heat the fluid) or to shut
off. As a non-limiting example, the fluid temperature inside the
tank 102 may be adjusted to 100 degrees Fahrenheit, or any other
desired temperature.
[0063] The temperature switch 806 is operatively connected to the
electric control panel 802. Once the desired temperature is set in
the electric control pane 802, the temperature switch 806
automatically controls the heating element 812. As such, when the
temperature of the fluid reaches a pre-determined temperature, the
heating element 812 shuts-off. However, if the temperature of the
fluid falls below the pre-determined temperature, the heating
element 812 turns back on to heat the fluid.
[0064] The low liquid level switch 810 is located within the tank
102 to sense when the fluid within the tank is reaching a low
level. As a non-limiting example, the low liquid level switch 810
is located toward the bottom of the tank 102. The low liquid level
switch 810 is any suitable sensor or switch device that is operable
for sensing the level of a fluid. As a non-limiting example, the
low liquid level switch 810 is an electric fluid sensing switch
that is operatively connected to the electric control panel 802.
When the fluid level inside the tank 102 reaches a low level, power
to the heating element 812 will shut off in order to prevent
over-heating and damage to the system.
[0065] FIG. 9 depicts another view of the bubble tank system 100,
with several components detached for illustrative purposes. As
shown in FIG. 9, the tank system 100 includes a light system 804
and a tank 102. The air motor cover 904 is also removed to
illustrate the air motor 114.
[0066] As depicted in FIG. 10, the light system 804 is attached to
the tank 102. Importantly, the light system 804 is attached to the
tank 102 in any suitable manner as to illuminate the falling fluid
1001 (e.g., bubbles). As a non-limiting example, the light system
804 is attached with the overflow lip 106 of the tank 102 such that
a portion of the light 1003 emitted from the light system 804 is
projected downward to illuminate falling bubbles as they fall from
the tank 102 and below the light system 804.
[0067] The light system 804 includes any suitable illumination
mechanism or device for generating and directing light 1003 toward
the falling fluid 1001. As a non-limiting example, the light system
804 includes a light element 1002 (e.g., light bar) with a
plurality of LEDs 1005 (or light bulbs, etc.) that generate light
1003.
[0068] The lights (or LEDs 1005) can be provided in any desired
color and in any display pattern. As a non-limiting example, the
light element 1002 includes multi-colored LEDs 1005 to illuminate
the fluid in different colors. As noted above and as another
non-limiting example, the multi-colored LEDs 1005 are directed
toward the falling fluid 1001 so that when the falling fluid 1001
is illuminated by the multi-colored LEDs 1005, the falling fluid
1001 simulates the appearance of falling lava. Thus, as a
non-limiting example, the multi-colored LEDs 1005 may shine a red
or a combination of different colored lights (e.g., red, orange,
yellow, and blue) onto the falling fluid 1001 to simulate the color
of lava or to create a desired mood (e.g., such as blue for
peaceful, or flashing yellow and white for chaotic lightening
effects, etc.).
[0069] Further, the LEDs 1005 may be provided or illuminated in any
number according to the desired effect. As a non-limiting example,
there may be as little as one light element 1005 (each with 20 LEDs
1005) or as many as twenty light elements 1005 (each with 20 LEDs
1005).
[0070] As noted above, the light system 804 can also be formed to
include signage 1004. Thus, the light elements 1005 can be
positioned at any suitable location to illuminate the fluid 1001
and, optionally, the signage 1004. As can be appreciated by one
skilled in the art, the light elements 1005 can be positioned
toward the bottom 1007 of the light system 804 to illuminate the
fluid 1001. However, in an alternative aspect, the light system 804
includes an open or translucent bottom 1007 portion and the light
elements 1005 are positioned within the light system 804 and toward
a top portion 1009. Further, in this aspect, a front portion 1011
of the light system 804 can be formed with translucent signage
1004. Thus, in this aspect, the light 1003 provided by the light
elements 1005 passes through the front portion 1011 to illuminate
the signage 1004 in addition to the falling fluid 1001.
[0071] As noted above, the signage 1004 can be used to provide any
desired message to a passing vehicle (and its passengers). As a
non-limiting example, the signage 1004 is a translucent plastic
with a combination of words or a phrase, or may include any other
desired message, such as the name of the carwash. As another
non-limiting example, the light system 804 can be configured such
that the light elements 1005 flash (or stay constantly illuminated)
to illuminate the word "lava."
[0072] It should be understood that although the system 100 (as
illustrated in FIG. 1) is depicted as having a traditional
trough-shaped tank 102, the invention is not intended to be limited
thereto as the tank can be formed in a suitably shape. As a
non-limiting example and as depicted in FIG. 11, the tank can be
provided as a cylindrical-shaped tank 1102. In this aspect, the
cylindrical-shaped tank 1102 has a fluid inlet 1106 to provide
fluid (e.g., water and soap, etc.) to the tank 1102. Also included
is an inner air manifold 1108 with several air holes 1110. The
inner air manifold 1108 delivers air into the fluid to generate
bubbles (using an air motor as described above). Once the
cylindrical shaped tank 1102 is filled with the fluid and/or
bubbles, the fluid 1104 will overflow through an opening 1105 and
fall onto a passing car in a controlled manner.
[0073] Another variation of the tank is shown in FIGS. 12A and 12B.
More specifically, FIG. 12A provides an external view of the tank
1202, while FIG. 12B provides a cross-sectional view of the tank
1202 as depicted in FIG. 12A. As shown, the tank 1202 can be formed
to include two or more smaller troughs 1206A and 1206B, each
operable to collect a fluid (e.g., water and/or soap, etc.) that is
introduced into the tank 1202 from a fluid supply inlet 108.
[0074] Additionally, in another aspect, each trough 1206A and 1206B
optionally includes an air manifold 1208 to generate bubbles as
described above (i.e., via air generated through the connected air
motors 114). In operation, the fluid supply inlet 108 receives
water (and/or soap, etc.) from an external fluid source and
introduces the fluid into the tank 1202 where it gathers in the
trough portions 1206A and 1206B.
[0075] Importantly, each trough portion 1206A and 1206B includes an
overflow lip 1210A and 1210B. Positioned between the trough
portions 1206A and 1206B is a drop opening 1212. Thus, as the fluid
gathers in the trough portions 1206A and 1206B and reaches the
overflow lips 1210A and 1210B, the fluid flows over the overflow
lips 1210A and 1210B and falls from the drop opening 1212 onto a
passing vehicle. This is further illustrated in FIG. 13, which
depicts the flow of the fluid 1001 as it flows from the trough
portions 1206A and 1206B and falls from the drop opening 1212.
[0076] It should be understood that the alternative tank variations
as depicted in FIGS. 12A through 13 are provided as non-limiting
examples of tank shapes that can be incorporated into the bubble
tank system as described herein. Thus, although all of the various
components described above with respect to FIGS. 1 through 10 are
not illustrated in FIGS. 12A through 13, it should be understood
that the components can be similarly incorporated into all tank
variations. Further, it should also be noted that although the tank
system is described as having an air manifold, heater, light
system, etc., it is not intended to be limited thereto as it can be
similarly formed with any or all of the relevant components as
desired. Thus, in its most simple aspect, the tank system simply
includes a tank (in any desired shape) and a water inlet to drop
water alone, or alternatively, a wax inlet alone. In another
aspect, the tank system can be formed to include all or any number
of the components described herein (or any combination thereof),
such as the soap injector, air manifold, heater, etc.
[0077] As such, it should be understood that the specific examples
provided herein are a non-limiting example according to the
principles of the present invention and that other embodiments
and/or aspects are conceived by the present invention. Thus, as can
be appreciated, the present invention is not intended to be limited
to the embodiments presented, but is to be accorded the widest
scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed
herein.
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