WO2006099680A1

WO2006099680A1 - Bin cleaning apparatus

Info

Publication number: WO2006099680A1
Application number: PCT/AU2006/000394
Authority: WO
Inventors: David Neuwen
Original assignee: Genetech Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2005-03-24
Filing date: 2006-03-24
Publication date: 2006-09-28

Abstract

A bin cleaning apparatus (11) comprising an enclosure (13) having an opening, a closure (15) associated with the opening to selectively open and close the opening, said enclosure (13) being sealed when in the closed condition, a bin engaging means (19) associated with the opening and being moveable between an extended position at which it is engageable with a bin (10) located beside the apparatus (11) when the closure (13) is open and a retracted position at which the bin (10) is supported within the enclosure (13) when the closure (15) is closed such that the central axis of the bin (10) is substantially horizontal or downwardly inclined within the enclosure (13), a cleaning means (23) adapted to direct a cleaning liquid onto the interior of the bin (10) and apply a cleaning action onto the interior of the bin (10) for the purposes of cleaning the interior of the bin (10), said apparatus further comprising a reservoir (21) accommodating a cleaning liquid said reservoir (21) being connected to the cleaning means (23), the enclosure (13) accommodating a drain (69) connected to the reservoir to facilitate the flow of liquid from the enclosure to the reservoir, a controller adapted to cause the opening and closing of the opening, movement of the bin engaging means (19) and activation of the cleaning means (23) to enable a bin (1) to be engaged by the engaging means (17) located within the closed enclosure (13), cleaned, removed from the enclosure and disengaged by the engaging means (19).

Description

Bin Cleaning Apparatus

Field of the Invention

This invention relates to a bin cleaning apparatus. The invention has particular application to the cleaning of domestic rubbish however the invention can have application to the cleaning of all forms of rubbish bins.

Disclosure of the Invention

Throughout the specification, unless the context requires otherwise, the word "comprise" or variations such as "comprises" or "comprising", will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or group of integers but not the exclusion of any other integer or group of integers.

The present invention provides a bin cleaning apparatus comprising an enclosure having an opening, a closure associated with the opening to selectively open and close the opening, said enclosure being sealed when in the closed condition, a bin engaging means associated with the opening and being moveable between an extended position at which it is engagable with a bin located beside the apparatus when the closure is open and a retracted position at which the bin is supported within the enclosure when the closure is closed such that the central axis of the bin is substantially horizontal or downwardly inclined within the enclosure, a cleaning means adapted to direct a cleaning liquid onto the interior of the bin and apply a cleaning action onto the interior of the bin for the purposes of cleaning the interior of the bin, said apparatus further comprising a reservoir accommodating a cleaning liquid said reservoir being connected to the cleaning means, the enclosure accommodating a drain connected to the reservoir to facilitate the flow of liquid from the enclosure to the reservoir, a controller adapted to cause the opening and closing of the opening, movement of the bin engaging means and activation of the cleaning means to enable a bin to be engaged by the engaging means, located within the closed enclosure, cleaned, removed from the enclosure and disengaged by the engaging means.

The drain is preferably provided with a screen. Preferably, a filter is provided between the reservoir and the cleaning means.

The cleaning means preferably includes a cleaning head which is receivable within the bin on the bin being moved to be accommodated within the enclosure wherein the cleaning head applies the cleaning action. Preferably, the cleaning head is moveable through the enclosure between a retracted position at which it lies substantially clear of the bin and an engaged position at which it is located substantially fully within the bin at which position the end of the cleaning head is proximate the base of the bin.

Preferably the cleaning head includes a nozzle supported from the end portion of the cleaning head and which is intended to direct a high pressure stream of the cleaning liquid onto the interior of the bin to provide the cleaning action. The nozzle is preferably mounted to the free end of the cleaning head. Preferably the nozzle is caused to rotate within the bin to facilitate the cleaning action.

Preferably the cleaning head is movable along a cleaning axis through the enclosure which is located to be generally aligned with the central axis, said nozzle being rotatable about the cleaning axis. The rotation of the nozzle about the cleaning axis is preferably effected by rotation of at least the portion of the cleaning head supporting the nozzle. The nozzle is preferably rotatable about a further axis which is transverse to the cleaning axis.

Preferably, when the bin is supported within the enclosure the controller causes the cleaning of the bin by causing movement of the cleaning head to cause the nozzle to enter the bin along the cleaning axis and on location within the bin the rotation of the nozzle about the cleaning axis and the further axis and on movement of the cleaning head outwardly from within the bin the rotation of the nozzle about the cleaning axis, wherein liquid is delivered to the nozzle throughout the cleaning of the bin. The bin cleaning apparatus preferably further includes a washing head adapted to deliver cleaning liquid to the exterior of the bin to apply a washing action. The washing head is preferably movable over the exterior surface of the bin on the bin being moved to be accommodated within the enclosure. Preferably, the washing head is caused to orbit around the bin to facilitate the washing action. The washing head is preferably moveable through the enclosure between a retracted position at which it lies substantially clear of the bin and an engaged position at which it is located beside the exterior of the bin. The washing head in its movement through the enclosure is preferably movable along a washing axis which is located to be generally parallel with the central axis.

The washing head preferably includes a washing nozzle which is intended to direct a high pressure stream of the cleaning liquid onto the exterior of the bin to provide the washing action. Preferably, the washing nozzle is rotatable about another axis which is transverse to the washing axis.

Preferably, when the bin is supported within the enclosure the controller causes the washing of the exterior of the bin by causing movement of the washing head to cause the washing nozzle to move along the washing axis to a position proximate the base of the bin and in location at the position to cause the washing head to orbit the bin and the rotation of the nozzle about the other axis and on movement of the washing head from the extended position to the retracted position to cause the washing head to orbit the bin, wherein liquid is delivered to the washing nozzle throughout the washing of the exterior of the bin. Preferably, on the washing nozzle approaching the upper end of the bin the controller causes the washing head to orbit the bin and the rotation of the nozzle about the other axis.

Alternatively, the washing head preferably includes two spaced angular nozzles for directing high pressure streams of the cleaning liquid onto the exterior of the bin to provide the washing action. The nozzles are preferably angled towards each other. Preferably, the cleaning means and the washing head are supported from a common element. The controller preferably causes the cleaning of the interior of the bin and the washing of the exterior of the bin simultaneously.

Preferably, a second reservoir is provided in the apparatus, said second reservoir accommodating a second liquid and being connected to the cleaning means, the controller adapted to control the delivery of the cleaning liquid and the second liquid to the cleaning means whereby the cleaning liquid from the first reservoir is delivered to the cleaning means initially and the second liquid is subsequently delivered to the washing means. The first reservoir preferably has a volume which is able to accommodate the volume of the second liquid and the volume of the cleaning liquid. The bin cleaning apparatus preferably further includes a heat exchanger for heating the cleaning liquid.

The bin cleaning apparatus preferably further comprises an air delivery means having an outlet connected to the cleaning means, the control means adapted to cause the delivery of air to the cleaning means for delivery of a flow of air onto the surface of the bin to remove liquid from the surface. Preferably, the cleaning means includes a first air outlet connected to the air delivery means.

The controller preferably causes the dewatering of the bin on completion of the cleaning of the bin whereby the controller causes movement of the first air outlet to cause the first air outlet to enter the bin along a dewatering axis and on location within the bin cause the rotation of the first air outlet about the dewatering axis and a further axis transverse to the dewatering axis, and on movement of the cleaning means outwardly from within the bin the rotation of the first air outlet about the transverse axis wherein air is delivered to the first air outlet from the air delivery means throughout the dewatering of the bin. Preferably, the first air outlet is oriented to deliver a flow of air substantially along or parallel to the central axis.

Preferably, the outlet of the air delivery means is connected to the washing head, the control means adapted to cause the delivery of air to the washing head for delivery of a flow of air onto the exterior surface of the bin to remove liquid from the exterior of the bin. The washing head preferably includes a second air outlet which in use is to be directed onto the exterior of the bin, said second air outlet connected to the air delivery means.

Preferably, the controller causes the dewatering of the exterior of the bin on completion of the washing of the exterior of the bin whereby the controller causes movement of the second air outlet to cause the second air outlet to move along a dewatering axis to a position proximate the base of the bin and the orbiting of the washing head around the exterior of the bin and on movement of the washing head towards the bin upper end the orbiting of the washing head around the bin, wherein air is delivered to the second air outlet from the air delivery means throughout the dewatering of the exterior of the bin. The controller preferably causes the dewatering of the interior and the exterior of the bin simultaneously.

The bin cleaning apparatus preferably further comprises a delivery means connected to a supply of an odourant and/or disinfecting agent wherein said controller is adapted to activate the delivery means to cause the odourant and/or disinfecting agent to be applied into the interior of the bin.

The connection between the drain and the reservoir is preferably through a flow path between the drain and the reservoir, the flow to the reservoir being induced by the creation of a reduced pressure within the reservoir. Preferably, the upper portion of the reservoir is liquid free, the apparatus further comprising an air delivery means having its inlet connected to the upper portion.

The opening is preferably provided in a side wall of the enclosure. Alternatively, the opening is preferably provided in an end wall of the enclosure. Further alternatively, more than one opening is provided and each opening is provided with a closure having the bin engagement means and each opening is associated with a washing means.

The closure preferably comprises a panel which substantially closes the opening when the closure is in its closed position and when the closure is in its open position the panel extends laterally from the enclosure. Preferably, the bin engaging means is accommodated by the closure to be moveable therewith whereby on the closure moving to its open position the bin engagement means is moved to its extended position and on the closure being moved to its closed position the bin engaging means is moved to its retracted position. The bin engagement means preferably comprises a clamping means supported on the closure which is intended to engage the base of the bin and retain it on the closure.

Preferably, the apparatus is for use with a bin having a set of wheels which can at least partially support the bin from the ground, wherein said bin engaging means clampingly engages the wheels as at least a part of its engagement with the bin.

The apparatus is preferably for use with a bin having a hinged lid, wherein the bin engagement means enables the lid to be moved to an open position on the bin being moved by the engagement means in its movement from the extended to the retracted position.

The bin engagement means is preferably associated with a reading member adapted to read an identification element provided on the bin, said reading member being adapted to be connected to a processor and a memory circuit which maintains records in respect of the bin. Preferably, the processor and memory circuit are provided remote from the apparatus and the apparatus includes transmitter/receiver facilities to enable communication between the apparatus and the remote location.

The apparatus is preferably formed as a module. Preferably, the reservoir is mounted to one side of the enclosure and is configured to define a side wall of the module. The module preferably has one opening and the opening is located at one end of the module such that the closure defines at least portion of the end wall of the module. Preferably, the reservoir comprises a pair of reservoirs located at each side of the enclosure. The reservoirs are preferably removably mounted to the module. The apparatus is preferably adapted to be mounted to a vehicle. Alternatively, the apparatus is preferably adapted to be incorporated into the body of a vehicle. Further alternatively, the apparatus is preferably adapted to be removably incorporated into a vehicle.

The vehicle preferably comprises a van having a zone adapted to receive a load and an accessway providing access to the zone, said apparatus being receivable within the zone and said closure being located proximate the accessway. Alternatively, the vehicle comprises a utility vehicle or a trailer.

The invention will be more fully understood in the light of the following description of several specific embodiments.

Brief Description of the Drawings

The description is made with reference to the accompanying drawings of which:

Figure 1 is a schematic part sectional view of a vehicle accommodating the first embodiment;

Figure 2 is a schematic rear isometric view of the apparatus according to the first embodiment;

Figure 3 is a schematic isometric part sectional view of an apparatus according to the first embodiment in association with a bin and with the closure in the open position;

Figure 4 is an upper isometric sectional view of the arrangement shown at Figure 3;

Figure 5 is a sectional isometric view of the cleaning and washing means for the first embodiment; Figure 6 is an enlarged isometric sectional view of the cleaning means for the first embodiment;

Figure 7 is a sectional view of the support for the cleaning and washing means of the first embodiment;

Figure 8 is a rear isometric view of the apparatus according to the first embodiment;

Figure 9 is a part sectional view of the enclosure showing the drain of the enclosure;

Figure 10 is a schematic rear view of the apparatus according to the first embodiment;

Figure 11 is an isometric view of a modified cleaning and washing means for the first embodiment;

Figure 12 is an enlarged isometric view of the modified cleaning means of Figure 11 ; and

Figure 13 is an enlarged isometric view of the modified washing means of Figure 11.

Detailed Description of Specific Embodiments

The first embodiment is directed to an apparatus 11 which is able to clean domestic rubbish bins 10 which are generally known as "wheelie" bins and which are provided with a set of rear wheels at the rear face of the base and a handle whereby the bins can be readily pulled or pushed. Such bins have become common place in Australia. It is a function of the embodiment to provide an apparatus which is able to readily clean such bins and which is able to effect such cleaning remotely with minimum input of manual labour and which is also designed to significantly limit the escape of noxious liquids, gases or odours from the apparatus.

The first embodiment as illustrated in the accompanying drawings comprises an apparatus 11 which can be associated with a vehicle 14 which takes the form of a van which has a load carrying space where the rear face of the space provides access into the load carrying space. The apparatus 11 according to the embodiment is configured such that it is receivable with in the load carrying space of the vehicle 14 and whereby the rear face of the apparatus 11 occupies the rear face of the load carrying space.

The apparatus 11 comprises an enclosure 13 which is closed except for its rear face. The rear face is associated with a closure panel 15 which is pivotally mounted to the rear of the enclosure 13 to be movable between an open position as shown at Figures 1 , 2, 3 and 4 at which the under surface of panel 15 lies in engagement with the ground and the upper surface provides a support face 17 for a bin 10. The closure 15 is movable to a closed position (not shown) at which the closure panel closes the rear face of the enclosure 13. In addition the upper face 17 of the closure 15 is provided with a bin engagement means 19 which is intended to be able to engage the wheels of the bin 17 and also the rear side wall of the bin 17 to enable the bin to be firmly and positively held in position on the upper face 17 of the closure 15. As a result of such engagement on the closure panel 15 moving to its closed position the bin 10 is moved to a position at which it is located within the enclosure 13 and which the rear face of the bin is lower most and is downwardly inclined from the base of the bin towards the mouth of the bin.

The enclosure 13 supports a pair of reservoirs 21 shown in Figures 3 and 4 which are removably mounted to the outer face of the side walls of the enclosure 13.

As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the enclosure 13 accommodates a cleaning means

23 and washing means 25 which are both supported from a lance 27 the inner end of which is rotatably supported from a support housing 29 which is in turn supported from a pair of parallel guide rails 31 supported from the upper walls of the enclosure 13 whereby the housing 29 together with the lance 27 is movable longitudinally within the enclosure 13. The cleaning means 23 is provided on the free end of the lance 27 such that it is substantially co-axial with the lance 27 while the washing means 25 is supported upon a lateral arm 33 which is parallel to the main body of the lance 27. The configuration of the cleaning lance 27 is such that on a bin 10 being located within the enclosure 13 when the closure 15 is closed, the cleaning means 23 can be moved into the interior of the bin 10 on longitudinal movement of the housing 29 on the rails 31 while the washing means 25 moves over the exterior of the bin 10. A suitable drive means (not shown) is provided between the housing 29 and the enclosure 13 to cause the longitudinal movement of the housing 29 on the rails 31 and the consequent movement of the washing means 25 and cleaning means 23 into an engagement with the bin 10.

The cleaning means 23 comprises a hollow nozzle support housing 34 from which a liquid delivery cleaning nozzle 35 is rotatably supported. The nozzle support housing 34 is supported on the free end of the lance 27 to be rotatable with the lance 27. The rotatable support for the cleaning nozzle 35 permits the cleaning nozzle 35 to rotate about an axis which is transverse to the central axis of the lance 27 and rotation of the cleaning nozzle 35 is effected by a first motor 37. The lance 27 supports a liquid conduit 38 which extends coaxially through the lance 27 and is connected to the cleaning nozzle 35 through a suitable flexible hose (not shown)

The hollow nozzle support housing 34 supports a hollow nozzle housing 39 which surrounds the cleaning nozzle 35 and rotates with the cleaning nozzle 35.

The hollow nozzle housing 39 defines a first air delivery nozzle 41 which is concentric with the cleaning nozzle 35. The interior of the nozzle support housing 34 opens into the hollow nozzle housing 39 and into the interior of the tubular lance 27. The innermost end of the lance 27 is rotatably supported from the housing 29 which itself defines a plenum chamber which is connected to a source of forced air which is derived from a fan 43 (see Figure 8). The inner end of the lance 27 which is accommodated within the hollow housing 29 is provided with a set of angularly displaced openings 45 which facilitate the flow of air from within the plenum chamber into the duct of the lance 27, and thus to nozzle housing 39. In addition the lance 27 is rotatably supported within the hollow housing 29 and is caused to be driven by a second motor (not shown) whereby with activation of the second motor the lance 27 is caused to rotate about its central axis, and as a consequence the cleaning nozzle 35 and first air nozzle 41 are also caused to rotate with the central lance 27. With the joint activation of the first electric motor 27 and the second electric motor both nozzles 35 and 41 are able to execute a dual rotary action.

The washing means 25 is of a similar form to the cleaning means 23 and is supported from a hollow lateral arm 33 which is connected to the interior of the cleaning lance 27 through a radial support arm 47. The washing means 25 comprises a washing nozzle 49 which is rotatably mounted on the free end of the lateral arm 33 for rotation about an axis which is transverse to the longitudinal central axis of the arm 33 and is driven by a third motor 50. The washing means 25 is further associated with a second air nozzle 51 provided in the wall on the lateral arm 33 such that its outlet is directed radially inwardly with respect to the cleaning lance 27. With rotation of the lance 27 the washing head 25 is caused to orbit around the central axis of the lance 27 and while the washing nozzle 49 is capable of rotation about an axis transverse to the central axis of the nozzle arm 33 and which is tangential to the rotation path of the washing head 25. The airflow for the second air nozzle 51 is also derived from the hollow housing 29.

As a result of the mounting of the liquid cleaning nozzle 35 to the lance 27 the nozzle 35 is movable from a position from which its flow path is substantially parallel to that of the central axis 27 to a position at which it is substantially transverse to the central axis to the central lance 27. As a result of this movement the fluid flow between a position at which the nozzle 35 is directed towards the base of the bin when the lance 27 is located within the bin and a position at which the nozzle 35 is directed onto the interior face of the side walls of the bin. With rotation of the central lance 27 about its central axis and rotation of the cleaning nozzle 35, the spray developed by the nozzle 35 is able to sweep both the base of the bin and the interior side walls of the bin. Furthermore, with longitudinal movement of the central lance 27 as a result of slidable movement of the hollow housing 29 on the rails 31 the spray generated by the liquid nozzle 35 is able to sweep over the interior face of the side walls of the bin 10. Similarly, the washing nozzle 49 because of its mounting to the lateral arm 33 is able to orbit around the exterior of the bin while with rotation of the washing nozzle 49 through the action of the third electric motor 50 the spray generated by the washing nozzle is able to sweep longitudinally over the exterior faces of the bin. With longitudinal movement of the central lance 27 as a result of a slidable movement of the hollow housing 29 on the rails 31 the nozzle 49 is able to move over the surface of the exterior of the bin 10.

The mounting of the cleaning means 23 and the washing means 25 and the movement of the whole housing 29 on the rails 31 enables the cleaning means 23 to be moved adjacent to the inner end of the bin 10 and the floor of the bin 10 to be cleaned as well as the side walls at the lower end of bin 10 while the lower exterior face of the bin 10 can also be washed and with movement of the central lance 27 outwardly from the bin the movement of the nozzles 35,49 causes the washing nozzle 49 to move over the exterior of the side walls of the bin 10.

Referring to Figures 8 and 9, the lower wall of the enclosure 13 is provided with a screen 55 and opens into a sump 57. The sump 57 communicates with each of the reservoirs 21 through flow conduits 59 which extend between the base of the sump 57 and the upper portion of each of the reservoirs 21. The air intake for the fan 43 is connected via a cyclone 61 and intake ducts 63 and 65 to the upper portion of the reservoirs 21 which are intended not to contain liquid and the outlet of the delivery fan outlet 67 of the fan 43 is connected to the hollow housing 29 through an outlet duct 67. The function of the intake for the fan 43 being connected into the upper portion of each of the reservoirs 21 is to generate a negative pressure within the upper portion of the reservoirs 21 which then serves to draw fluid from the sump 57 through the conduits 59. This function serves to avoid the need for use of a pump having an impeller or the like means which is likely to suffer from clogging as a result from any debris that may be suspended in the liquid contained in the sump 57.

Each of the reservoirs 21 are provided at their lower end with a drainage port 69 and a fluid outlet 71 which is spaced above the drainage outlet 69 which are each connected to a pump (not shown) intended to extract water from the reservoir 21 and deliver it to the cleaning means 23 and washing means 25 through the flow conduit 73. A suitable filter is located in the line to the pump to capture any debris suspended in the liquid flowing to the pump and which is likely to be detrimental to operation of the pump and the nozzles 35, 49.

In addition the apparatus is associated with a further reservoir 75 mounted underneath the enclosure (see figure 10) which in use is intended to accommodate clean rinse water.

In use, each of the main reservoirs 21 are filled with a cleaning liquid containing a detergent or like surfactant while the further reservoir 75 is filled with clean water.

In operation of the device the closure panel 15 is moved to the open position as shown and the bin 10 is located on the upper face 17 of the closure 15 and it is engaged by the engagement means 19. The closure 15 is then moved to the closed position at which position the bin 10 is supported by the enclosure 13 to be substantially horizontal within the enclosure 13 and where the rear face of the bin 10 is lowermost and is inclined downwardly from the base to the outer face of the bin 10. The cleaning lance 27 is then moved axially such that the cleaning means 23 moves into the bin to be located proximate the base of the bin while the washing means 25 is moved such that it is located at a position outward of the lower face of the bin 10. The cleaning liquid from the first reservoirs 21 is delivered to each of the cleaning and washing nozzles 35,49 and both nozzles 35,49 are caused to rotate by the first and third electric motors 37 and 50 respectively such that the spray generated by each of the nozzles serves 35,49 to sweep the outer and inner face of the base of the bin 10 and the outer and inner faces of the side walls of the bin 10 adjacent the base. With movement of the cleaning lance 27 outwardly from the bin 10 the nozzles 35 and 49 are directed radially such that they are directed onto the interior and exterior faces of the side walls of the bin 10 and in so doing so with rotation of the central lance 27 the faces of the bin 10 are swept by the spray generated by each of the nozzles 35,49. On the washing means 25 approaching the upper end of the bin the washing nozzle 49 is caused to rotate on the lateral arm 33 such that it is directed in the direction of the flange which is provided around the upper perimeter of the bin 10. With further movement of the 27 lance out of engagement with the bin 10 the cleaning means 23 and washing means 25 move out of engagement with the bin 10. On completion of the cleaning cycle a similar sequence of steps are effected with the rinse liquid being delivered to the nozzles 35,49 to rinse the surfaces of the bin 10. This then concludes the cleaning and washing of the bin 10. The water which drains from the bin collects in the sump 57 and is subjected to an initial screening as a result of the screen 55.

To dewater the bin 10 the lance 27 and cleaning and washing means 23,25 are moved in a similar sequence as described in regard to the cleaning cycle and during the sequence air is delivered to the air nozzles 41 and 51 from the fan 43. The blast of air serves to sweep any residual water form the surfaces of the bin 10.

The operation of the fan 43 generates a negative pressure within the upper portions of the first reservoirs 21 which serves to draw water from the sump 57 into the first reservoirs 21. Since all of the rinse water which is contained within the further reservoir 75 will ultimately become resident in the first reservoirs 21 , the volume of the first reservoirs 21 is such as to accommodate the volume of the second reservoir 75.

The operation of the first embodiment such that the cleaning of the bin is effected within a closed environment and because of the use of the air fan 43 to generate a negative pressure within the reservoirs 21 there is generally a reduced pressure within the enclosure 13 which serves to prevent the escape of any noxious liquids, gases or odours.

As a concluding step to the operation of the device the cleaning head 23 and washing head is associated with a spray means (not shown) which is intended to deliver into the interior and onto the exterior of the bin 10 an odorant or disinfectant such as citronella or a like agent via a misting nozzle.

Figure 11 shows a modified cleaning means 23a and washing means 25a for the first embodiment. As shown in Figures 11 and 12, the cleaning means 23a is substantially similar to the cleaning means 23 described above. Similar parts will be referred to with similar numerals, but with the suffix 'a¹ for the cleaning means 23a. The cleaning means 23a comprises a lance 27a which pivotably supports a cleaning nozzle 35a. The cleaning nozzle 35a which is mounted on a rotatable hub 28 and can be pivoted about an axis which is transverse to the lance central axis. Pivoting of the cleaning nozzle 35a is effected via an extendable/retractable arm 40a. The arm 40a can be extended and retracted via hydraulic, electric or any suitable means. Extension of the arm 40a pivots the nozzle 35a toward an angle substantially perpendicular to the lance central axis and retracting of the arm 40a pivots the nozzle 35a in the opposite direction to be substantially parallel to the lance central axis. The lance 27a supports a liquid conduit (not shown) extending coaxially through the lance 27a and connected to the cleaning nozzle 35a through a conduit (not shown)

The distal end of the lance 27a defines an air delivery nozzle 41 a. The hub 28 is rotatably supported from the housing 29 as described above and is rotatable about its central axis.

Operation of the cleaning means 23a is similar to the cleaning means 23 described above. Cleaning liquid is delivered to the nozzle 35a with the arm 40a being extended/retracted to pivot the nozzle 35a, to sweep the base and inner side walls of the bin 10. This is performed together with the movement of the distal end of the lance 27a from adjacent the base of the bin 10 toward the opening thereof. To dewater the inside of the bin 10, high pressure air is delivered to the air nozzle 41a, which directs an air stream toward the middle of the base of the bin. The air stream follows and sweeps the inside surfaces of the bin to move water toward the bin opening.

Figs. 11 and 13 show the modified washing means 25a. The washing means 25a is supported by a lateral arm 33a which is connected to the rotatable hub 28 by a radial support arm 47a. The washing means 25a comprises a first nozzle

49a adjacent the distal end of the lateral arm 33a, and a second nozzle 49b spaced about 400 mm proximally thereto. The first nozzle 49a is angularly directed generally toward the housing 29, whilst the second nozzle 49b is angularly directed generally away from the housing 29. Cleaning fluid or air can be delivered to the nozzles 49a and 49b by suitable conduits (not shown).

The washing means 25a, due to its mounting to the lateral arm 33a, is able to orbit around the exterior of the bin 10 when the lance 27a is rotated. When cleaning fluid is delivered to the nozzles 49a and 49b, the washing means 25a can sweep the exterior face of the bin 10 at two different angles, which provides for more effective cleaning. The first nozzle 49a can also direct cleaning fluid toward the underside of the rim of the bin, whilst the second nozzle 49b can direct cleaning fluid toward the wheels and wheel supports of the bin. Similarly, when air is delivered to the nozzles 49a and 49b, the washing means 25a can dewater the exterior face of the bin 10 at two different angles. With longitudinal movement of the lance 27a as a result of a slidable movement of the housing 29 on the rails 31 , the nozzles 49a and 49b are able to move over the surface of the exterior of the bin.

In further modifications of the above embodiments, the apparatus 11 can be in the form of a self-contained unit, which can be mounted to other vehicles such as a truck, a utility, or a trailer which can be towed by any vehicle. The apparatus 11 can also include a heat exchanger for heating the cleaning water for use. The apparatus 11 can have a single water tank which maintains the cleaning water above 60⁰C to avoid bacterial growth. The vehicle 14 in the above embodiment can also include a levelling assembly, comprising a pair of hydraulic jacks to lift the rear end of the vehicle for levelling the apparatus 11 , if required.

It is also envisaged that the embodiments can incorporate an identification means which will comprise a readable element provided on the bin which may comprise a bar code, a smart chip or any other identification means and the engagement means will accommodate a reading head which will enable the identification means to be read. The reading means is connected to a control circuit provided on the vehicle which incorporates a processor which is able to identify the bin. The control circuit further comprises a transmitter which is able to transmit a signal to a remote location. The remote location is provided with a data base facility to enable the operation on the bin to be recorded and account records to be maintained in respect of the bin whereby each cleaning event for a bin can be recorded and accounted for. In addition the remote location provides a means which can instruct the operator in regard to which particular bins are to be cleaned. In addition the control circuit and processor can be provide with a set of instruction for each period of operation to process a particular set of bins in a prescribed sequence. In this regard it is envisaged that the cleaning process would be applied to the bins shortly after they have been emptied. In such circumstances the vehicle according to the first and second embodiment would follow the path of a rubbish removal service vehicle through a locality and to facilitate such the processor will be programmed according to the intended movement of the rubbish removal service vehicle.

The embodiments provide a means whereby the bin can be readily and safely cleaned without introducing into the surroundings a spray of noxious materials into the environment surrounding the washing apparatus. This is particularly the case because the enclosure is sealed, and in the first embodiment, the use of the air delivery means to cause the liquid to be delivered into the reservoirs as a result of a reduced pressure within the reservoirs. It is anticipated this will result in a net pressure within the enclosure which is at least a little below atmospheric pressure and therefore there is a reduced likelihood of noxious liquids, gasses and odours escaping to the environment. In addition the liquid that is used is maximised in terms of its cleaning potential in that the cleaning liquid in the first reservoir is recycled for each cleaning operation and the rinse solution which drains from the drain is also collected by the first reservoir and is used to supplement the cleaning liquid.

In another embodiment, pumps can be used to deliver the cleaning fluid under pressure to the nozzles.

It should be appreciated that the invention need not be limited to the particular scope of the embodiment described above.

Claims

1. A bin cleaning apparatus comprising an enclosure having an opening, a closure associated with the opening to selectively open and close the opening, said enclosure being sealed when in the closed condition, a bin engaging means associated with the opening and being moveable between an extended position at which it is engagable with a bin located beside the apparatus when the closure is open and a retracted position at which the bin is supported within the enclosure when the closure is closed such that the central axis of the bin is substantially horizontal or downwardly inclined within the enclosure, a cleaning means adapted to direct a cleaning liquid onto the interior of the bin and apply a cleaning action onto the interior of the bin for the purposes of cleaning the interior of the bin, said apparatus further comprising a reservoir accommodating a cleaning liquid said reservoir being connected to the cleaning means, the enclosure accommodating a drain connected to the reservoir to facilitate the flow of liquid from the enclosure to the reservoir, a controller adapted to cause the opening and closing of the opening, movement of the bin engaging means and activation of the cleaning means to enable a bin to be engaged by the engaging means, located within the closed enclosure, cleaned, removed from the enclosure and disengaged by the engaging means.

2. The bin cleaning apparatus of claim 1 wherein the drain is provided with a screen.

3. The bin cleaning apparatus of claim 1 or 2 wherein a filter is provided between the reservoir and the cleaning means.

4. The bin cleaning apparatus of any one of the preceding claims wherein the cleaning means includes a cleaning head which is receivable within the bin on the bin being moved to be accommodated within the enclosure wherein the cleaning head applies the cleaning action.

5. The bin cleaning apparatus of claim 4 wherein the cleaning head is moveable through the enclosure between a retracted position at which it lies substantially clear of the bin and an engaged position at which it is located substantially fully within the bin at which position the end of the cleaning head is proximate the base of the bin.

6. The bin cleaning apparatus of claim 4 or 5 wherein the cleaning head includes a nozzle supported from the end portion of the cleaning head and which is intended to direct a high pressure stream of the cleaning liquid onto the interior of the bin to provide the cleaning action.

7. The bin cleaning apparatus of claim 6 wherein the nozzle is mounted to the free end of the cleaning head.

8. The bin cleaning apparatus of claim 6 or 7 wherein the nozzle is caused to rotate within the bin to facilitate the cleaning action.

9. The bin cleaning apparatus of claim 8 wherein the cleaning head is movable along a cleaning axis through the enclosure which is located to be generally aligned with the central axis, said nozzle being rotatable about the cleaning axis.

10. The bin cleaning apparatus of claim 9 wherein the rotation of the nozzle about the cleaning axis is effected by rotation of at least the portion of the cleaning head supporting the nozzle.

11. The bin cleaning apparatus of claim 9 or 10 wherein the nozzle is rotatable about a further axis which is transverse to the cleaning axis.

12. The bin cleaning apparatus of claim 11 wherein when the bin is supported within the enclosure the controller causes the cleaning of the bin by causing movement of the cleaning head to cause the nozzle to enter the bin along the cleaning axis and on location within the bin the rotation of the nozzle about the cleaning axis and the further axis and on movement of the cleaning head outwardly from within the bin the rotation of the nozzle about the cleaning axis, wherein liquid is delivered to the nozzle throughout the cleaning of the bin.

13. The bin cleaning apparatus of any one of the preceding claims further including a washing head adapted to deliver cleaning liquid to the exterior of the bin to apply a washing action

14. The bin cleaning apparatus of claim 13 wherein the washing head is movable over the exterior surface of the bin on the bin being moved to be accommodated within the enclosure.

15. The bin cleaning apparatus of claim 13 or 14 wherein the washing head is caused to orbit around the bin to facilitate the washing action.

16. The bin cleaning apparatus of any one of claims 13 to 15 wherein the washing head is moveable through the enclosure between a retracted position at which it lies substantially clear of the bin and an engaged position at which it is located beside the exterior of the bin.

17. The bin cleaning apparatus of any one of claims 13 to 16 wherein the washing head in its movement through the enclosure is movable along a washing axis which is located to be generally parallel with the central axis.

18. The bin cleaning apparatus of any one of claims 13 to 17 wherein the washing head includes a washing nozzle which is intended to direct a high pressure stream of the cleaning liquid onto the exterior of the bin to provide the washing action.

19. The bin cleaning apparatus of claim 18 wherein the washing nozzle is rotatable about another axis which is generally transverse to the central axis.

20. The bin cleaning apparatus of claim 19 wherein when the bin is supported within the enclosure the controller causes the washing of the exterior of the bin by causing movement of the washing head to cause the washing nozzle to move along the washing axis to a position proximate the base of the bin and in location at the position to cause the washing head to orbit the bin and the rotation of the nozzle about the other axis and on movement of the washing head from the extended position to the retracted position to cause the washing head to orbit the bin, wherein liquid is delivered to the washing nozzle throughout the washing of the exterior of the bin.

21. The bin cleaning apparatus of claim 20 wherein on the washing nozzle approaching the upper end of the bin the controller causes the washing head to orbit the bin and the rotation of the nozzle about the other axis.

22. The bin cleaning apparatus of any one of claims 13 to 17 wherein the washing head includes two spaced angular nozzles for directing high pressure streams of the cleaning liquid onto the exterior of the bin to provide the washing action.

23. The bin cleaning apparatus of claim 22 wherein the nozzles are angled towards each other.

24. The bin cleaning apparatus of any one of claims 13 to 23 wherein the cleaning means and the washing head are supported from a common element.

25. The bin cleaning apparatus of any one of claims 13 to 23 wherein the controller causes the cleaning of the interior of the bin and the washing of the exterior of the bin simultaneously.

26. The bin cleaning apparatus of any one of the preceding claims wherein a second reservoir is provided in the apparatus, said second reservoir accommodating a second liquid and being connected to the cleaning means, the controller adapted to control the delivery of the cleaning liquid and the second liquid to the cleaning means whereby the cleaning liquid from the first reservoir is delivered to the^' cleaning means initially and the second liquid is subsequently delivered to the washing means.

27. The bin cleaning apparatus of claim 26 wherein the first reservoir has a volume which is able to accommodate the volume of the second liquid and the volume of the cleaning liquid.

28. The bin cleaning apparatus of claim 26 or 27 further including a heat exchanger for heating the cleaning liquid.

29. The bin cleaning apparatus of any one of the preceding claims further comprising an air delivery means having an outlet connected to the cleaning means, the control means adapted to cause the delivery of air to the cleaning means for delivery of a flow of air onto the surface of the bin to remove liquid from the surface.

30. The bin cleaning apparatus of claim 29 wherein the cleaning means includes a first air outlet connected to the air delivery means.

31. The bin cleaning apparatus of claim 30 wherein the controller causes the dewatering of the bin on completion of the cleaning of the bin whereby the controller causes movement of the first air outlet to cause the first air outlet to enter the bin along a dewatering axis and on location within the bin cause the rotation of the first air outlet about the dewatering axis and a further axis transverse to the dewatering axis, and on movement of the cleaning means outwardly from within the bin the rotation of the first air outlet about the transverse axis wherein air is delivered to the first air outlet from the air delivery means throughout the dewatering of the bin.

32. The bin cleaning apparatus of claim 30 wherein the first air outlet is oriented to deliver a flow of air substantially along or parallel to the central axis.

33. The bin cleaning apparatus of any one of claims 29 to 32, when claim 29 is appended to any one of claims 13 to 28 wherein the outlet of the air delivery means is connected to the washing head, the control means adapted to cause the delivery of air to the washing head for delivery of a flow of air onto the exterior surface of the bin to remove liquid from the exterior of the bin.

34. The bin cleaning apparatus of claim 33 wherein the washing head includes a second air outlet which in use is to be directed onto the exterior of the bin, said second air outlet connected to the air delivery means.

35. The bin cleaning apparatus of claim 34 wherein the controller causes the dewatering of the exterior of the bin on completion of the washing of the exterior of the bin whereby the controller causes movement of the second air outlet to cause the second air outlet to move along a dewatering axis to a position proximate the base of the bin and the orbiting of the washing head around the exterior of the bjn and on movement of the washing head towards the bin upper end the orbiting of the washing head around the bin, wherein air is delivered to the second air outlet from the air delivery means throughout the dewatering of the exterior of the bin.

36. The bin cleaning apparatus of claim 35 when claim 33 is appended to claim 31 or 32 wherein the controller causes the dewatering of the interior and the exterior of the bin simultaneously.

37. The bin cleaning apparatus of any one of the preceding claims wherein the cleaning means further comprises a delivery means connected to a supply of an odourant and/or disinfecting agent wherein said controller is adapted to activate the delivery means to cause the odourant and/or disinfecting agent to be applied into the interior of the bin.

38. The bin cleaning apparatus of any one of the preceding claims wherein the connection between the drain and the reservoir is through a flow path between the drain and the reservoir, the flow to the reservoir being induced by the creation of a reduced pressure within the reservoir.

39. The bin cleaning apparatus of claim 38 wherein the upper portion of the reservoir is liquid free, the apparatus further comprising an air delivery means having its inlet connected to the upper portion.

40. The bin cleaning apparatus of any one of the preceding claims wherein the opening is provided in a side wall of the enclosure.

41. The bin cleaning apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 39 wherein the opening is provided in an end wall of the enclosure.

42. The bin cleaning apparatus of any one of the claims 1 to 39 wherein more than one opening is provided and each opening is provided with a closure having the bin engagement means and each opening is associated with a washing means.

43. The bin cleaning apparatus of any one of the preceding claims wherein the closure comprises a panel which substantially closes the opening when the closure is in its closed position and when the closure is in its open position the panel extends laterally from the enclosure.

44. The bin cleaning apparatus of any one of the preceding claims wherein the bin engaging means is accommodated by the closure to be moveable therewith whereby on the closure moving to its open position the bin engagement means is moved to its extended position and on the closure being moved to its closed position the bin engaging means is moved to its retracted position.

45. The bin cleaning apparatus of claim 44 wherein the bin engagement means comprises a clamping means supported on the closure which is intended to engage the base of the bin and retain it on the closure.

46. The bin cleaning apparatus of claim 45 wherein the apparatus is for use with a bin having a set of wheels which can at least partially support the bin from the ground, wherein said bin engaging means clampingly engages the wheels as at least a part of its engagement with the bin.

47.The bin cleaning apparatus of any one of the preceding claims wherein the apparatus is for use with a bin having a hinged lid, wherein the bin engagement means enables the lid to be moved to an open position on the bin being moved by the engagement means in its movement from the extended to the retracted position.

48. The bin cleaning apparatus of any one of the preceding claims wherein the bin engagement means is associated with a reading member adapted to read an identification element provided on the bin, said reading member being adapted to be connected to a processor and a memory circuit which maintains records in respect of the bin.

49. The bin cleaning apparatus of claim 48 wherein the processor and memory circuit are provided remote from the apparatus and the apparatus includes transmitter/receiver facilities to enable communication between the apparatus and the remote location.

50. The bin cleaning apparatus of any one of the preceding claims wherein the apparatus is formed as a module.

51. The bin cleaning apparatus of claim 50 wherein the reservoir is mounted to one side of the enclosure and is configured to define a side wall of the module.

52. The bin cleaning apparatus of claim 50 or 51 wherein the module has one opening and the opening is located at one end of the module such that the closure defines at least portion of the end wall of the module.

53. The bin cleaning apparatus of claim 51 wherein the reservoir comprises a pair of reservoirs located at each side of the enclosure.

54. The bin cleaning apparatus of claim 53 wherein the reservoirs are removably mounted to the module.

55. The bin cleaning apparatus of any one of the preceding claims wherein the apparatus is adapted to be mounted to a vehicle.

56. The bin cleaning apparatus of any one claims 1 to 54 wherein the apparatus is adapted to be incorporated into the body of a vehicle.

57. The bin cleaning apparatus of any one claims 1 to 54 wherein the apparatus is adapted to be removably incorporated into a vehicle.

58. The bin cleaning apparatus of any one of claims 55 to 57 wherein the vehicle comprises a van having a zone adapted to receive a load and an accessway providing access to the zone, said apparatus being receivable within the zone and said closure being located proximate the accessway.

59. The bin cleaning apparatus of any one of claims 55 to 57 wherein the vehicle comprises a utility vehicle or a trailer.

60. A bin cleaning apparatus of claim substantially as herein described in reference to accompanying drawings.