ES2360138T3 - DEFROSTING OF WINDSHIELD. - Google Patents

Abstract

An apparatus for cleaning a window of a vehicle, comprising: a container (28), which has an intake (34) through which a washing fluid is received from a reservoir (30) and a discharge (36) through which the fluid is discharged to clean the window (24); a heating element (50) for heating the fluid contained in the container; a temperature detector (64), which detects a temperature in the container (28); means (74) (40) for controlling the circulation of fluid flowing through the container; and a controller (46); characterized in that the means (74) (40) for controlling the circulation of the fluid passing through the container are configured under the control of the controller (46) to intermittently release quantities of fluid through the discharge at a predicted temperature, in response to the temperature detected by the sensor.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of the US provisional patent application. No. 610/076/30

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to the heating of fluids, and specifically to the heating of a fluid for the purpose of cleaning or defrosting a car window.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Various methods and devices for providing a spray of hot water or other washing fluid on the windows of a vehicle are known in the art. The heated fluid is particularly advantageous in removing ice from the windshield of a vehicle in cold weather. This ice removal function requires that the driver of a vehicle have to wait while the fluid heats up, until the windshield can be defrosted. The methods and devices known in the art are not practical for this purpose; however, they typically use heat or electrical energy generated by the vehicle's own engine to heat the fluid, which requires the driver to wait an unacceptably long time for the fluid to reach an adequate temperature.

The use of the vehicle's battery to heat the fluid, regardless of the vehicle's engine, is also problematic due to the large current consumption necessary to heat a sufficient amount of fluid in order to effectively defrost the windshield. Typically, the battery is not able to provide a reasonable current intensity to heat the entire tank of vehicle wash fluid in a reasonable amount of time. Although methods and devices have been suggested to heat the fluid on the fly, when it is about to be sprayed on the windshield, the battery is also not capable of supplying enough current to heat a spray of sufficient volume at a temperature high enough to achieve effective defrosting.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,509,606 discloses a hot wash device for the windshield of a vehicle, which includes a container in whose interior washing fluid is pumped from a tank and in which the fluid is heated by an electric heating element before Spray on the windshield. The vessel is insulated and includes a thermostat that is used to ensure that the fluid temperature does not exceed a predetermined maximum value. The container is kept full, applying heat when necessary to bring the cold fluid pumped into the container to the expected temperature.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,118,040 describes an electrical apparatus for washing the windows of the windows of a vehicle. An insulated container is placed between a cold fluid reservoir for washing and sprayed jet discharges to the vehicle window, in a lower position than the reservoir in order to remain full of fluid. When the engine starts, an electric heater heats the fluid in the container and stays on while the vehicle is in use. However, there are no measures for rapid starting and heating to defrost the window of the vehicle.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,090,668 describes a windshield washer and defrost system that includes a reservoir having a tightly closed container therein. A pump transfers washing fluid from the tank to the container and from the container to a plurality of injectors. The hot engine coolant is passed through a duct in the tank. An electric resistance wire heats the fluid in the container whenever the temperature drops below a certain minimum value. Solenoid valves direct the spray jet from the tank to the front or rear window of the vehicle, but there is no indication of using the valves for any other fluid control purposes.

U.S. Patent UU. No. 5,012,977 describes a device for washing car windows in which the washing fluid contained in a tank is heated, and in which a pump for spraying the fluid on a vehicle window has a variable discharge pressure. The temperature of the reservoir fluid is detected, and the discharge pressure of the pump is varied in accordance with the temperature of the washing fluid in an inverse manner, in order to maintain a more consistent fluid reservoir in the window, since The viscosity of the fluid varies with temperature.

US Patent No. 5,354,965 describes a system for electrically heating a volume of windshield washer fluid in a motor vehicle. A container is filled with the volume of fluid to be heated, using thermistors with a positive temperature coefficient (hereinafter PTC) or other electric heating elements. A control circuit regulates the duration of the period in which the fluid is heated, according to a prevailing ambient temperature, before the fluid is sprayed on the windshield. The circuit also prevents the heating of the fluid from working when the vehicle's engine is not framed.

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SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

An object of the present invention is to provide an improved apparatus and method for cleaning and defrosting a vehicle window.

A further object of some aspects of the present invention is to provide an apparatus and methods that enable rapid initiation of defrosting of a vehicle window.

In preferred embodiments of the present invention, a container is provided for heating a washing fluid before the fluid is discharged into a window of a vehicle. Before introducing the fluid into the container, it is preheated, preferably by passing an electric current through a heating element contained in the container for about a minute or less. Once the preheating is finished, the fluid is allowed into the container and quickly heated by contact with it, which leads to an increase in the pressure in the container due to the vaporization of a fraction of the fluid. The fluid is then discharged at an expected temperature and pressure in order to clean or defrost the windshield.

Although the preheating of the container consumes only a moderate amount of electric power from the vehicle's battery, it does allow a sufficient amount of hot fluid to defrost the window before starting the vehicle faster than in any practical system. Window cleaning known in the art. Likewise, the pressure generated by the vaporization of the fluid helps to release the ice or other blockages that may have formed in the pipes or in the injectors through which the fluid is sprayed on the window. Note also that the spraying of the hot fluid on the exterior surface of the vehicle effectively also defrosts the interior surface.

In some preferred embodiments of the present invention, after an initial amount of the fluid has been heated and discharged from the container, an additional amount is introduced into the container and immediately heated. Once the additional quantity has reached a predicted temperature, it is also discharged, preferably after a delay of several seconds. This process continues for repeated loading / unloading cycles, until the windows have been completely cleaned and thawed. Preferably, the charge / discharge cycles are timed in a sequence whose parameters, such as the duration of each discharge and the intervals between discharges, are varied according to the ambient temperature of the vehicle and the unheated fluid.

It will be understood that the term "vehicle", as used in the context of the present patent application and in the claims, may refer to any type of wheeled vehicle having windows, such as a car or a truck, as well. Like a ship or a plane In addition, the term "window", although typically referring to the windshield of a vehicle, can refer to any transparent surface, including the front and rear windows and exterior rearview mirrors, as well as headlight covers and similar elements. Additionally, whenever the term "cleaning" is used in the present application and in the claims referring to an action that involves spraying with a hot fluid on a window, it will be understood that the term also includes defrosting. Those skilled in the art will understand that the principles of the present invention could be adapted for cleaning and defrosting of other surfaces, including windows and internal mirrors, for example, as well as for water and hot fluids supplied for other purposes. Y

Therefore, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, there is provided an apparatus for cleaning a window of a vehicle, which includes:

a container, which has an intake through which a washing fluid is received from a reservoir and a discharge through which the fluid is discharged to clean the window; Y

a heating element for heating the fluid in the container, whose element preheats the container before the washing fluid is lodged therein, whereby at least an initial amount of the fluid is rapidly heated and discharged from the container.

Preferably, the container is at least partially drained from the fluid contained therein before the element preheats the container, whereby the container includes a drain valve, activated in cooperation with the operation of the heating element, through the which vessel is drained at least in part. Preferably, the drain valve is a unidirectional valve. In addition, preferably, the fluid drains into the reservoir, substantially independent of the height of the reservoir relative to the vessel.

Preferably, the apparatus includes a pump, which transports the fluid from the tank to the container after the preheating element to the container, wherein the pump and the tank are preferably part of a pre-existing vehicle cleaning system, in which The container and the heating element have been rebuilt with new parts. Alternatively, the entire device could be manufactured as an integral unit. Including the pump. Preferably, the rapid heating of the initial amount of the fluid causes it to discharge at a pressure substantially greater than the pressure generated by the pump at the intake of the vessel.

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Preferably, the apparatus includes one or more valves, which regulate the passage of fluid through the container in response to the operation of the heating element. Preferably, the one or more valves include a solenoid valve, or alternatively, a hydraulic, pneumatic or vacuum operated valve. At least one of the one or more valves is preferably fixed at the admission of the container, or alternatively or additionally, at the discharge of the container, where the at least one valve attached to the discharge opens in response to an increase in pressure in the container, due to the contact between the fluid and the preheated container.

In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus includes one or more temperature sensors, which generate signals in response to an operating temperature of the apparatus, and a controller, which receives the signals and regulates the discharge of fluid from the container in response to them. . Preferably, after the initial amount of fluid has been discharged, one or more additional amounts of the fluid are reintroduced into the vessel and intermittently discharged therefrom, in response to the temperature signals, where the quantities are discharged when The temperature signals indicate that the temperature of the fluid in the vessel is above a predetermined threshold value, and the discharge is interrupted when the temperature of the fluid drops below the threshold value. Alternatively or additionally, the quantities are controlled according to a predetermined timing sequence, which is selected in response to the temperature signals, and the threshold value of the temperature could vary between the quantities in the sequence.

In another preferred embodiment, the controller analyzes the signals to detect a malfunction of the apparatus and interrupts the operation of the heating element when the fault is detected.

Preferably at least one of the one or more temperature sensors is installed inside the container. The at least one sensor is preferably substantially submerged in the container fluid. Alternatively, the at least one sensor is positioned so that it is substantially outside the container fluid while the heating element preheats the container. Preferably, the operation of the heating element is interrupted when the temperature inside the container exceeds a predetermined maximum value.

In a preferred embodiment, at least one of the one or more temperature sensors is fixed on an outer surface of the container. Additionally or alternatively, the at least one of the one or more temperature sensors is fixed to the tank or on an exterior surface of the vehicle, most preferably on an exterior surface of the window to be cleaned, covered by a cover to the less partially reflective, in order to substantially neutralize the effect of solar radiation on it. Preferably, the fluid contained in the container is heated to a temperature that is varied in response to the signals generated by at least one sensor fixed on the exterior surface of the vehicle, or otherwise in response to the external temperature of the vehicle.

Preferably the container includes an inner compartment that communicates with the discharge, in which compartment the heating element is located, and an outer compartment, which generally surrounds the inner compartment, which communicates with the intake. Preferably, the container includes an insulating outer shell surrounding the outer compartment and a wall between the outer and inner compartments, which is preheated by the heating element. Alternatively, the outer compartment is surrounded by one or more additional fluid compartments, external to it.

Preferably, the apparatus includes a pressure relief valve.

Additionally preferably, the apparatus includes a bypass line, which puts the container in bypass, through which the fluid is transported to clean the window without heating the fluid, where, when the window has to be cleaned, while the element If the container is preheating, the fluid is derived through the bypass line. Preferably, a user of the vehicle selects whether to activate the heating apparatus, so that when the apparatus is deactivated, the fluid is transported along the bypass line. More preferably, the apparatus automatically switches between transporting the fluid through the container or through the bypass, in response to a heating cycle of the container. When container fluid is not available, unheated fluid is preferably automatically transported through the bypass line.

In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus includes a remote entry device, which is activated by a vehicle user to initiate preheating of the container before starting the vehicle.

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Preferably, the heating element includes a resistive heating wire. Alternatively or additionally, the heating element transports heat from a heat source of the vehicle to the fluid in the container.

Also provided, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, is an apparatus for cleaning a window of a vehicle, which includes:

a container, which has an intake through which a liquid is received and washed from a reservoir and a discharge through which the fluid is discharged to clean the window;

a heating element for heating the fluid contained in the container;

a temperature sensor, which detects the temperature in the container;

a valve to control the flow of the fluid that passes through the container, which intermittently releases quantities of the fluid through the discharge at a predicted temperature, in response to the temperature detected by the sensor.

Preferably, a windshield wiper is activated intermittently to clean the window in response to intermittent fluid release.

Preferably, the apparatus includes a controller, which regulates the intermittent release of the fluid according to a given timing sequence, preferably a predetermined or programmable sequence, wherein the timing sequence is varied in response to an ambient temperature in the vehicle or, alternatively or additionally, at a temperature of an exterior surface of the window.

Preferably, an initial amount of the fluid is released at a pressure substantially higher than that of subsequent amounts.

In addition, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a method of cleaning a window of a vehicle using a washing fluid, which includes:

preheat a container;

introducing a quantity of the fluid into the preheated container, whereby the pressure and the temperature of the fluid are raised;

discharge the fluid in the window at high pressure and temperature.

Preferably, the container is emptied of fluid before preheating the container.

In addition and preferably, the step of introducing the fluid includes pumping it into the vessel at a pumping pressure, wherein the elevated pressure at which the fluid is discharged is substantially greater than the pumping pressure.

In a preferred embodiment, the method includes measuring a fluid temperature, in which the step of discharging the fluid includes controlling the discharge of the fluid in response to the temperature measurement. Additionally or alternatively, a temperature of an exterior surface of the vehicle is measured, wherein the step of discharging the fluid includes controlling the discharge of the fluid in response to the temperature of the exterior surface.

In addition, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a method of cleaning a window of a vehicle using a washing fluid, which includes repeating a plurality of times in sequence the steps of:

heat a quantity of the fluid;

monitor a temperature of the amount of fluid; Y

Discharge the quantity when a predetermined condition in the heating of the fluid is satisfied.

Preferably, the predetermined condition is satisfied when the amount of the fluid reaches a selected level. Alternatively or additionally, the predetermined condition is satisfied when a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the beginning of the heating.

In addition, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a vehicle windshield defrosting apparatus is provided which includes: a plurality of individual heating units; and a multi-jacket housing in which each jacket surrounds one of the heating units, the shirts being connected to each other by means of fluid conduits, including an intake and discharge port, whose housing is attached at the intake port to a source of windshield washer fluid and at the discharge port to a windshield spray head, the heating units being operated to heat the washer fluid during its circulation to the windshield spray head, providing the heated sprayed fluid a windshield defrosting effect.

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Additionally, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, an electrically activated windshield defrosting device for vehicles is provided, which includes a heated vessel for windshield washer fluid that can be connected between a reservoir of washer fluid and spray heads located in front of the windshield, and provided with an intake port and a discharge port for the fluid, and having an electric heating element installed inside the heated container, not exceeding 300 ml the remaining liquid capacity of the heated container, whose The heating element can be connected to the vehicle's battery and is sized to heat the fluid contained in the heated container to the defrosting temperature in no more than one minute of activation.

The present invention will be more readily understood from the following detailed description of its preferred embodiments, taken in conjunction with the drawings, in which:

Figure 1 is a schematic pictorial illustration showing an apparatus for cleaning a windshield with hot washing fluid, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing details of the cleaning apparatus of Figure 1, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 3 is a schematic illustration showing a temperature sensor on the windshield of the car of Figure 1, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 4 is a schematic block diagram illustrating the functions of an electronic controller in the apparatus of Figure 1, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 5 is a timing diagram showing the operation of the apparatus of Figure 1, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 6 is a schematic diagram showing details of the windshield cleaning apparatus, according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 7 is a sectional view of a container that can be heated for use in a windshield cleaning apparatus, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 8 is a sectional view of a container, which can be heated, for use in windshield cleaning apparatus, according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 9 is a perspective view of a container, which can be heated, for use in windshield cleaning apparatus, according to yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 10 is an electrical diagram showing the connection of the heating units of Figure 9, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 11 is a side view of an inner part of the container of Figure 10, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view of the container of Figure 11, taken along line XII-XII:

Figures 13A and 13B are, respectively, a plan view from above and a sectional side view of the container of Figure 11, the sectional view taken along line XIIIB-XIIIB;

Figure 14 is a schematic pictorial illustration showing a window cleaning apparatus in an alternative configuration, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 15 is a schematic illustration of a heating vessel for use in a window cleaning apparatus, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 16 is a schematic illustration showing a heating wire for use in the container of Figure 15, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; Y

Figures 17A through 17L are schematic illustrations showing the operation of the container of Figure 15 and the apparatus in which the container is used, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

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DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Referring now to Figure 1, this is a schematic pictorial illustration showing an electrically powered window defrosting and cleaning apparatus 20 for vehicles, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, shown armed for use in a car 22 having a windshield 24 covered with ice 26.

A container 28, which can be heated, for windshield washer fluid is connected between a reservoir 30 of car wash fluid 22 and a spray heads 32, which spray the fluid onto the windshield 24 when a user 25 of the car active The user could activate the apparatus from inside or outside of the car 22, as shown in the figure and described further herein below. The container 28 has an intake port 34, which receives wash fluid from the reservoir 30, and a discharge port 36 through which heated fluid is discharged to the spray heads 32. The fluid is driven by a pump 40, which in general already exists in the car 22 to spray unheated fluid to clean the windshield 24. A battery 42 supplies electric power and windshield wipers 44 clean the molten ice and dirt from the windshield, such as It is known in the art. A controller 46 regulates the operation of the apparatus 20, and optionally also controls the wipers 44 in conjunction with the operation of the apparatus. Other aspects and details of the apparatus are described further hereinafter.

Figure 2 is a schematic diagram, partially in section, showing details of the container 28 and other elements of the apparatus 20, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. The container 28 is generally cylindrical in shape and comprises an inner chamber 52 surrounded by an outer chamber 54. The inner chamber 52 is contained and defined by an inner wall 56, which is preferably constituted by a metal such as stainless steel. The outer chamber 54 is surrounded by an outer wall 58 of the container, preferably constituted by an insulating material, such as a plastic. A heating element 50 installed inside the inner chamber 52 heats the fluid of the container 38. As a result of the concentric arrangement of the chambers 52 and 54, the heat losses of the container 28 are minimized, since the heat lost by the fluid Hot in chamber 52 is used on a large scale to preheat the coldest fluid contained in chamber 54. Since the fluid contained in chamber 54 is colder, its heat losses through the outer wall 58 are relatively small.

The heating element 50 preferably comprises an electrical element heated by a resistor, which is fed from the battery 42 through the controller 46, according to a heating sequence which is further described hereinbelow. Alternatively, the element 50 could be heated by heat exchange with a heat source of the car 22, such as engine cooling fluid or exhaust gases. However, the electric heating by the battery 42 is advantageous, since it allows the container 28 to warm up quickly even before the engine starts. Preferably, element 50 consumes approximately 400 W, power that normal car batteries can easily supply. Furthermore, the container 28 has preferably been sized in such a way that after approximately one minute or less of the activation of the heating element, it is capable of heating and discharging fluid of a sufficient volume and temperature to melt the ice 26. To this end, the inner chamber 52 preferably contains about 50 ml of the fluid. However, it will be noted that the principles of the present invention could similarly be applied by scaling the volume of the container 28 and the power of the element 50 at any required capacity. In particular, when the apparatus 20 is used in larger vehicles, such as trucks or ships, the volume and power consumption of the container will typically be substantially greater than in the car 22.

When a user 25 of the vehicle 22 activates the apparatus 20, the controller 46 allows the battery current 42 to circulate through the heating element 50. such that the container 28 begins to heat up. Any fluid contained in the container is preferably allowed to drain through a drain port 60, by opening a drain valve 62. The valve 62, the same as the other valves used in the apparatus 20, as described hereinbelow, preferably comprises a solenoid valve, or any suitable type of valve known in the art, which is controlled by the controller 46. The controller preferably applies a relatively high current intensity to open the valve, but then reduces the intensity to a lower level to keep the valve open. Thus, the element 50 preheats the container, including in particular the inner wall 56. The heat that accumulates in the container tends to vaporize the fluid that remains therein, generating a pressure that forces the fluid out through the port 60, regardless of whether the container 28 is located higher or lower than the tank

30. Preferably, a temperature sensor 64 measures the temperature in the container 28 and supplies feedback to the controller 46.

Once the container has reached an expected temperature, preferably with the heating element 50 reaching a temperature of several hundred degrees Celsius, the drain valve 62 is closed and an intake valve 66 is opened. Alternatively, the valves could be opened simply after a predetermined time has elapsed, since the presence of a residual amount of fluid at the bottom of the container 28 will effectively prevent serious overheating of the container. The pump 40 is started to transport an initial amount of wash fluid, preferably between 30 and 50 ml, from the reservoir 30 to the intake port 34. A unidirectional valve 68 preferably prevents the backflow of the fluid towards the drain port 60. As the discharge valve 74 is preferably a three-way valve, that is, of a type having two admissions and a single discharge (in which the fluid could also enter through the discharge and circulate back to the admissions) , allowing either of the two admissions to be in communication with the download. The valve 74 is configured to allow flow from the discharge port 36 to the spray heads 32, and to block the flow through a bypass line 76. Alternatively, separate valves could be provided for the discharge and the discharge line. derivation.

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The fluid fills the outer chamber 54 and circulates to the inner chamber 52 through the openings 70 made in the inner wall 56. An additional opening 72 made near the highest part of the wall 56 helps equalize the pressure between the inner and outer chambers. After contact with the hot element 50 and the wall 56, the fluid heats up quickly, causing part of the fluid to vaporize. The pressure generated in the vaporization forces the hot fluid to exit through the discharge port 36 and spray heads 32, at a high temperature and pressure. Optionally, the discharge valve 74 is kept closed even after opening the intake valve 66, and is opened only when sufficient pressure has accumulated in the vessel 28, either autonomously or operated by the controller 46. The pressurized fluid Hot not only facilitates the rapid melting of ice 26 on windshield 24, but is also capable of blowing out blockages in the fluid lines between discharge port 36 and spray heads 32 that could be caused by ice or dirt, Preferably, a unidirectional valve 78 shunts the discharge port 36 to ambient air to relieve vacuum conditions that may arise.

After the initial amount of hot fluid has been discharged, the pump 40 and the inlet valve 66 are actuated to refill the container 28. Although the heating element 50 and the wall 56 will no longer be as hot as they were before introducing The initial amount of fluid in the container will retain some residual heat, which facilitates rapid heating of the filled fluid. When the refilled fluid reaches an expected temperature or after a predetermined period of time, it is discharged by the valve 74 and spray heads 32. This process is repeated a planned number of times in sequence, until the entire sequence of discharges as described hereinbelow, or until the windshield has been cleaned or thawed, or until the temperature in the container 28 decreases below a predetermined minimum value, or until the user interrupts the discharges. (Note that, under normal conditions, the temperature of the vessel will generally decrease from an amount of fluid to the next in the sequence. If controller 46 receives an indication of an increase in temperature, such increase in general will indicate a malfunction, for example, a lack of fluid to refill the container, and the controller will preferably interrupt the supply of electrical power to element 50). Then, the driver could reactivate the apparatus 20 and start a new cycle of heating and fluid discharge.

Preferably, each time the container 28 is filled, heated fluid is discharged through the spray heads 32 for about 3 seconds, at intervals of about 5 seconds or more between fillings, generally as determined by the time needed for the fluid reaches an expected temperature. The temperature of subsequent downloads of the sequence could be lower than the initial download and other previous downloads. Additionally preferably, the windshield wipers are operated in cooperation with the fluid discharge of the apparatus 20, such that the windshield wipers are only running during and shortly after the fluid discharge. Optionally, the operation of the windshield wipers could be delayed, so that they do not work during the initial discharge, when the ice 26 has not yet melted, but only begins to function after the second discharge and subsequent discharges.

After completion of the sequence of heated fluid discharges, valves 66 and 74 (with respect to container 28) are closed, and preferably drain valve 62 is opened, so that any fluid remaining in the container can drain back to the reservoir 30. (Pump 40 in general is not tightly sealed against counterflow). An upper end 61 of the drain port 60 is preferably elevated with respect to the bottom of the chamber 52, such that a minimum amount of fluid will remain at the bottom of the container 28 even after draining. Then, the container is ready for quick operation the next time the apparatus 20 is activated.

Bypass line 76 allows unheated fluid from reservoir 30 to be pumped directly to spray heads 32, without passing through container 28. Line 76 opens for spray heads whenever valve 74, which is preferably A three-way valve, as indicated above, is closed with respect to the intake port 36. Line 36 can be used in warm weather, when defrosting is not needed, or when a spray jet is needed immediately for cleaning, and there is no time to heat the fluid. Preferably, the valve 74 remains open with respect to the line 76, so that the line fluid is transported to the spray heads 32, provided that the heating apparatus 40. is not activated. A unidirectional valve 80 installed in line 76 preferably blocks any counter-flow of fluid through the line.

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Thus, the apparatus 20 provides additional functionality for window cleaning for a car 22, at a relatively small cost and without interfering with the window washing capabilities that existed previously. The appliance could be installed either as part of the window washing system in a new car, or it could be modified retroactively in a current car wash system. Although the parts of the apparatus 20 have been shown in Figures 1 and 2 being in certain positions and orientations with respect to the car 22 and the washing system contained therein, other positions and orientations are clearly possible. For example, the container 28 could be installed at a different angle from the orientation shown in the figures, provided that the ports 34, 36 and 60 are properly positioned and oriented in the container.

Although in the preferred embodiment shown in Figure 2, the apparatus 20 includes the valves 62, 66 and 74 that control the ports 60, 34 and 36 of the container 28 in a certain fluid flow configuration, it will be understood that other configurations could be used . In particular, it is not necessary to use all three valves. For example, valves 66 and 74 could be dispensed with, along with line 76, and pump 40 could be used to drive and control the flow of fluid through vessel 28. Furthermore, although for greater clarity the parts of the apparatus 20 as separate units connected by tubes, in reality at least a part of the apparatus is preferably constructed as a block, to minimize heat losses. In addition, in said configuration, the cold wash fluid can be made to pass near the solenoid valves, removing heat from them and increasing the performance of the fluid heating process. It will be noted that, in this case, since the apparatus 20 is widely closed and operates in a series of short heat / fill / discharge cycles, any leakage or loss of fluid will generally have only a minimal effect on its operation.

The control of the apparatus 20 by the controller 46 has been described hereinbefore based on the feedback to the controller provided by the sensor 64. This sensor has been shown in Figure 2 installed at the upper end of the container 28, where it will measure the temperature either of the steam or of the fluid contained in the chamber 52, depending on whether the chamber is empty or full. The controller46 preferably tracks and monitors the temperature changes detected by the sensor 64 during the heating / filling / discharging cycles of the container 28. If the temperature exceeds a predetermined maximum value, or if the temperature changes do not follow a predetermined normal profile , the controller will conclude that a malfunction has occurred, such as a blockage of the intake 34 or discharge 36 or a fault in the sensor 64, and will preferably interrupt the operation of the apparatus and communicate it to the user by means of an appropriate signal .

Additionally or as an alternative to sensor 54, there could be a temperature sensor closer to the bottom of the container, to measure the temperature therein. Other sensors, such as a pressure sensor or pressure switch or a fluid level sensor, could also be attached to the vessel, and feedback could be provided to controller 46. More temperature sensors could also be used, including a sensor on an outer surface of the vessel 28, a sensor 84 in the reservoir 30 for measuring the temperature of the fluid therein, and a sensor 86 on an exterior surface of the car 22, most preferably on the windshield 24. These sensors provide input signals to the controller 46 , which according to them configures parameters such as the voltage applied to the element 50 or the periods of time during which the element is heated and the fluid in the container

28.

Preferably, the controller configures the parameters such that the fluid is sprayed on the windshield 24 at a temperature high enough to melt the ice 26 rapidly in the prevailing environmental conditions, as indicated by the sensor 86, for example, but not so high. (with respect to the windshield temperature) that creates a risk of cracking in the windshield or that safety regulations are violated in this regard. The selection of the parameters is preferably automatic, without requiring intervention by the user 25 of the car 22, except to activate or deactivate the apparatus 20 as desired. ,

Figure 3 is a schematic illustration showing the positioning of the temperature sensor 86 in the windshield 24, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. In order for the controller 46 to determine at what temperature the fluid should be heated, it is necessary to know the temperature of the outer surface of the windshield 24. However, if the sensor 86 is openly placed on the windshield and exposed to the sun, typically it will read a higher temperature than that of the transparent windshield itself. Therefore, preferably the sensor 86 is covered with a reflective cover 88, thus largely neutralizing the effect of solar radiation on the temperature reading.

When the user is in the car 22, he activates the apparatus20 either by means of a switch installed in the dashboard, or by means of a signaling controller 46 using a wash / clean switch that already exists in the car. For example, you could press or pull the existing switch two or three times in rapid succession to connect or disconnect the device 20.

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Additionally, as shown in Figure 1, the user 25 can use an optional remote control 90 to activate the apparatus 20 before entering the car 22. The remote control 90 could also be used to start the automatic operation of the windshield wipers 44, and thereby for cleaning and defrosting the windshield 24. The remote control could be of any suitable type known in the art, including either an active device, such as an RF transmitter, or a device passive, such as an optical or infrared retroflector. By activating the device before entering the car, the user can reduce the time spent waiting for the fluid to warm up.

Figure 4 is a schematic block diagram illustrating the operation of controller 46 of apparatus 20, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. The controller 46 is preferably coupled to an antenna 92, to receive the signals from the remote control 90. As indicated hereinbefore, the controller receives the signals from the temperature sensor 64, as well as from other sensors, such as the sensor 64. It also receives electrical energy from the battery 42 and distributes the energy, preferably by means of relays (not shown) to valves 62, 66 and 74 and to pump 40 and heating element 50.

The antenna 92 can also be used for wireless control of the apparatus 20 when the user 25 is inside the car, such that there is no need to connect additional wires or switches to the dashboard of the car 22. Alternatively, the controller 46 could be connect by wires to an operation switch and an indicator lamp (which have not been shown in the figures), by means of which the user activates the apparatus 20 and is notified of the correct operation or possibly a malfunction.

Before supplying power to the valves, pump and heating element, the controller 46 preferably performs a self-test. The test includes measuring the input voltage of the battery 42 (which should preferably be at least 9 volts for a typical car 22 that has a 12-volt battery), as well as checking that the electrical resistance of the heating element 50 It is within predetermined limits. If any part of the self-test fails, the controller 46 will not allow the apparatus 20 to operate, and will preferably provide a malfunction indication to the user 25.

Figure 5 is a timing diagram illustrating a sequence 96 of heating / filling / discharging cycles of apparatus 20. according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Initially, as described hereinbefore, the drain valve 62 is operated and the heating element 50 is activated to preheat the container 28. The valve 62 is closed, preferably after about 15 seconds. Alternatively, the drain valve could be kept closed for a short period, preferably about 20 seconds, so that the fluid contained in the container 28 is heated to an elevated temperature before the valve is opened. This alternative is particularly useful if the controller 46 determines that one of the valves, in particular the intake valve 66, has seized and will not open, in which case the heated fluid is used to force the valve to open.

The heating continues until the sensor 64 reaches an objective temperature, preferably around 85 ° C (depending on the exact position of the sensor), in chamber 52, or for approximately 70 seconds, if the temperature does not reach the target temperature. At that time, the pump 40 is started and the intake and discharge valves 66 open, to admit and discharge the initial amount of fluid. The temperature in the chamber 52 drops, and subsequently it is reheated, preferably to about 60 ° C, after which a second quantity of the fluid is admitted and discharged. The process of reheating, filling and unloading continues for a predetermined number of cycles, or until the end of the user 25.

After the final discharge in sequence 96, the drain valve 62 is opened, and the heating element 50, which is activated substantially continuously throughout the entire sequence, remains activated for approximately 15 seconds or more, with in order to heat and drive out of the container 28 as much as possible of the remaining fluid therein, to the level of the upper end 61. The apparatus is then ready to begin the next sequence, when required by the user.

Figure 6 is a schematic illustration showing an alternative configuration of the apparatus 20, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Except as indicated hereinbelow, the parts of the apparatus 20 shown in Figure 6 are substantially similar or identical to those shown in Figure 2 and described with reference thereto. This embodiment differs from that of Figure 2 in that in Figure 6, the discharge valve 74 has been removed, and the intake valve 66 is a three-way valve, as indicated hereinbefore, which connects alternatively the intake port 34 or the bypass line 76 to the pump 40. Instead of the discharge valve 74, a unidirectional valve 98, preferably a spring loaded unidirectional valve, prevents fluid from passing through the line Bypass flow back through discharge 36 to container 28 when valve 66 is open in the direction of the bypass line. On the other hand, when the valve 66 is open in the direction of the intake port 34, the resulting pressure in the container 28 forces the valve 98 to open, such that the heated fluid is discharged through the heads of sprayed 32.

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Referring now to Figure 7, a vessel 128 that can be heated for use in the apparatus 20 is seen in a sectional view, according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention. Although the structure of the container 128 is slightly different from that of the container 28, it could be used in a substantially similar manner. In this case, the discharge port 34 could also be used as a drain port.

Figure 8 illustrates another vessel 130, which can be heated, cylindrically, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Advantageously, the container 130 has an outer shell132 constructed of a rigid plastic tube, which forms one of two spaced walls. An inner wall 134 comprises a plastic tube 136 inside a metal tube 138. The metal tube 138 is preferably made of stainless steel, which, being a bad conductor of heat between metals, reduces heat losses. The plastic tubes 132 and 136 are of a material that has a wide range of operating temperatures, for example polyether ether ketone or polyphenylene sulfide. Using a pair of end plugs 140 and 142 that are filled with an epoxy material, the tubes 132, 136 and 138 are easily held in alignment. The embodiment shown is particularly useful for manufacturing moderate quantities without incurring high tool costs.

The intake port 34 and the discharge port 36 comprise nozzles for the respective fixing of the ends of the plastic tubes (generally seen in Figures 1 and 2) used to connect between the reservoir 30 of washing fluid and the heads spray 32, which is preferably divided by cutting during the installation of the apparatus 20. The drain port 60 allows the fluid to return to the reservoir 30 after the apparatus has been used, as described hereinbefore.

In the embodiment shown in Figure 8, the heating element 50 is a combination of three electrical resistance elements, which are connected in parallel. Thus, even if an element has been burned, the device continues to operate, although with less power.

Referring now to Figure 9, a perspective view of another container 150, which can be heated, for use in the apparatus 20, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention has been shown. A terminal 152 is internally connected to a set of heating units (shown in Figure 11), each of which has an outer jacket through which the washing fluid passes. The connection to the negative pole, or grounding connection of the container 150, is made directly to the body of the heating units mounted therein, by means of a bridge-connector 154 and a retention band (which has not been shown ) that holds the container 150 to the car 22. An insulation material 156 provides the thermal insulation container, typically by a lightweight material of low conductivity.

As will be described later with reference to the following figures, the container 150 includes three individual and separate heating units, each located in a housing jacket through which the fluid from the fluid reservoir 30 circulates to the heads Spray 32 windscreen. By means of a novel arrangement of the heating units and the fluid liners, the fluid is preheated during its circulation, and it is recirculated to obtain the maximum performance temperature when it comes out as a spray of the spray heads. The heating units are electric and have been designed to provide a sufficient heat capacity such that, during the circulation of the fluid in the system, a sufficient temperature is reached immediately. Therefore, the design of the invention is effective in providing a washer fluid system for defrosting the windshield 24, without requiring a long delay as was the case in prior art systems based on the heat of the vehicle's engine. Unlike prior art systems, preheating of the wash fluid is not required, and the capacity of the immediate hot wash fluid is limited only by the size of the fluid reservoir. The unit of the invention uses the washing technology, the flexible tubes and the current energy source. Since the vessel 150 has been designed to provide a substantially continuous flow of fluid, which heats during its circulation, it will typically be able to provide a slower flow of hot fluid on the windshield 24 than the high flow rate of hot fluid bursts from of the container 28.

Referring now to Figure 10, an electrical diagram of the connection of the heating units in the container 150 has been shown therein. A single heating unit 166 of 100 watts is connected in parallel with two heating units 162 and 164 of 150 watts, which provides a total setting of 400 watts. This heating capacity achieves an almost instantaneous heating of the washing fluid. In this mode, there is no significant time delay in the operation of the windshield washer system until the hot spray jet is exited. This is because heating is achieved during the circulation of the fluid in the system, without changing the flow rate and pressure in the system. Optionally, only one of the two units 162, 164 and 166 could be used when a relatively lower temperature is required, and therefore less heating power.

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In operation, when the electric switch 168 is closed, the container 150 immediately functions to heat the system wash fluid in such a way that a spray of hot fluid flows out of the spray heads 32 and begins to clean the windshield 24 by means of the normal operation of the windshield wipers 44- Since the necessary heat will not be continuous, the electric switch 168 can be of an intermittent type, to periodically interrupt the electric current. Typically, a type of corrosion-resistant electrical switch is used.

In addition to pressing switch 168. to close it, user 25 does not need to do anything else since the system works by spraying wash fluid at a temperature of approximately 50 degrees above room temperature (or at another appropriate temperature, according to operating conditions), and together with the movement of the windshield wipers, the fluid melts and cleans the windshield ice. Within a range of only about 15 seconds, the windshield has been washed and defrosted normally, and car driving can begin. In this very short period, the liquid is not likely to freeze again.

Referring now to Figures 11 and 12, respectively, a side view and a sectional view of the inner part of the container 150, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, have been shown. The container 150 contains a set of three heating units 232, 234 and 236. Each of the heating units 232-236 is typically provided with a heater with resistive load, as shown in the scheme of Figure 10. Some Individual outer sleeves 238, 239 and 240 have been constructed around each of the heating units 232-236 such that each surrounds its own internal heating element to allow the washing fluid to quickly absorb heat during its circulation. on outer shirts 238-240.

As indicated above, the heating units are designed to operate at 12 volts and are provided with tightly sealed and corrosion resistant units. Alternatively, the units could be designed to operate at 24 volts, or at any other suitable continuous or alternating voltage. Their dimensions are such that they define an annular flow passage duct (see Figure 13A) between each unit and its outer jacket, of dimensions that allow the preservation of the expected pressure of the system fluid, as configured by the manufacturer.

The fluid intake pipe 34 has been constructed so that it extends along the entire length of the heating units 232-236, and is attached to the outer jacket 239 of the heating unit 234 at its end lower 244. This joint provides a preheating function, such that the washing fluid circulating in the pipe 34 absorbs the heat energy emitted by the heating units 232-236 before entering the outer jacket 239.

The circulation of the washing fluid through the jacket 239 causes it to be heated by the heating unit 234, by the absorption of the heat produced by the heating element. Once the washing fluid has reached the highest part of the jacket 239, it circulates through a connecting tube 246 and re-enters the container 150 at the lower end of the outer jacket 240, in order to warm up during its circulation through the heating unit 236. After reaching the highest part of the jacket 240, the washing fluid is directed again by means of a connecting tube 248 in order to re-enter the container 150 at the outer end of the outer jacket 238.

In the upper part of the outer jacket 238, a fluid discharge line 36 has been connected, through which the washing fluid leaves the container 150 after circulating through the outer jacket 238 and being heated by the heating unit 232. Thus, after passing through the outer sleeves 238-240, the washing fluid is provided with the highest possible heat level before heading to the spray heads 32 mounted in front of the windshield 24. Spray heads 32 could be specially designed with an adjustable angle to direct the spray jet at the most effective point on the windshield.

A cross-sectional view of the container 150, taken along the cutting lines XII-XII of Figure 11, is shown in Figure 12, revealing additional construction details of the heating units 232-236 and of the sleeves exterior 238-240. The fluid intake pipe 34 and the arrangement of the connecting pipes 246 and 248 have also been shown. The design of the heating units 232-236 and the outer sleeves 238-240 in close proximity to each other adds to the performance Thermal container design.

Design considerations for thermal efficiency also affect the choice of materials to be used in the container 150. For example, the choice of copper or brass tubes for the intake tube 34 ensures high thermal conductivity, while the tubes 246 ,. 248 and 36 should be chosen from a material with low thermal conductivity, to ensure minimal heat loss. Tubes 34 and 36 have serrated end portions to facilitate connection to them. The outer sleeves 238-240 are also constructed of materials chosen for thermal performance considerations, so that they have low thermal conductivity.

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In Figures 13A-B, respectively, a plan view from above and a sectional side view of the container 150, where the sectional view has been taken along the cut lines XIIIB-XIIIB, are shown. The construction of the outer sleeves 238-240, including the annular conduit 249 of defined flow passage around each of the heating units 232-236, and a collection chamber 252 defined at the lower end of the container is shown in detail 150

Based on the above description, the design of the container 150 is typically characterized by a stainless steel construction of approximately 200 mm in length, each outer jacket having a maximum diameter of 12-13 mm, and a wall thickness of 1 mm. Each of the heating units is typically 8 mm in diameter. The maximum diameter of the container is approximately 51 mm. The fluid intake pipe 34 and the discharge pipe 36 have typically been constructed of a 3.76 mm (3/16 inch) diameter tube. This design ensures that the container 150 is a compact unit of good thermal efficiency that does not limit flow rates or pressures. As those skilled in the art will understand, several of the dimensions can be designed in accordance with current designs of washing systems or with manufacturers of private vehicles, in order to maintain the nominal flow and pressure of the fluid flow.

As those skilled in the art will appreciate, heating the washing fluid during its circulation through the system is the main advantage of the container150, since the heating occurs while the fluid moves, and not while it is stationary, The flow rates and dimensions of Particular design can be easily established according to the familiar design techniques for those skilled in the art. In addition, the choice of heating unit capacities for private vehicles, such as trucks and buses, can be expanded.

Referring now to Figure 14, an alternative installation concept has been shown for a window cleaning apparatus 220 including the container 150, in which the spray heads are located in the windshield wipers 44 themselves, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. In this arrangement, the spray heads 32 are connected by means of flexible tubes 255256, each of which is fixed within a groove 258 made on the underside of the windshield wipers 44. Thus, a hot spray jet is unload directly to the windshield at the place where the maximum defrosting effect is obtained, since the windshield wipers physically break the ice. It will be understood that the windshield wipers must be operated while the fluid is being sprayed from the spray heads 32.

In summary, the apparatus 220 of the present invention can be provided as an economical and easily manufactured accessory for current windshield wiper systems, or it can be supplied in new vehicle designs. The simple and robust design of the container 150 makes it an attractive additional accessory, which provides a quick and efficient solution to windshield freezing problems, increasing comfort and safety. The apparatus 220, in addition to being simple and easy to install, does not complicate the assembly line of new cars to vehicle manufacturers, nor is it a burden for the current washing systems to which it is applied, in an installation process It lasts five minutes. To operate the windshield wiper fluid pump, a user manual control existing in the vehicle is preferably used.

Figure 15 schematically illustrates a container 300 for use with apparatus 20 or 220, changing what needs to be changed, according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention. In container 300 a single jacket 312 is used to hold three separate heating elements, one of which, element 304, has been shown in the figure extending longitudinally through the container. The jacket 312 is preferably made of steel or other material generally cylindrical in shape and has two opposite ends. At one end there is a plug 320 defining a chamber 322, which preferably has a volume between 24 and 40ml, depending on the size of the vehicle in which it is installed. An intake port 34 and a discharge port 36 provide communication to the camera, as described hereinbelow; on certain occasions, the washing fluid may circulate entering the discharge port and exiting the intake port.

Figure 16 is a schematic sectional illustration of a wire 100 from which element 304 has been wound, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. The wire 320 has substantially a circular section, and is formed of a core 306 of magnesium oxide surrounded by a sleeve or ceramic coating 308. Preferably, the core has a diameter in the range of 0.07-0.14 mm. For example, for standard cars, a 500 W unit is sufficient, and the wire 310 could have a 0.07 mm core. For larger vehicles, such as trucks, a 0.14 mm core may be necessary to generate up to 700 W of heat energy. The sleeve 308 is preferably deposited by a standard laser process using a high density ceramic powder, as is known in the art. Preferably, the coating 308 has a thickness of approximately 0.10 mm.

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The two ends 314 of the element 304 are provided with magnesium oxide connectors, which are coupled to be electrically powered through the controller 46 as indicated hereinbefore. In this embodiment, the controller 46 preferably detects if the motor of the car 22 is running, for example by detecting a ripple of alternating current in the voltage of the battery 43, and does not allow power to be supplied to the container 300 at any time. if the engine is running, in order to prevent the battery from discharging.

Cap 320 is filled with an epoxy material or other material capable of withstanding high temperatures up to 700 ° C. In a preferred embodiment, controller 46 is contained in the cap, as shown in Figure 15. Additionally, ports 34 and 36 they are provided with 366 valves and

374. These valves are preferably constructed of a silicone rubber and can operate at elevated temperatures such as 700 ° C. The valves are coupled to the controller 46 by means of wires (not shown in the figure) that serve to indicate the positions of the valves and to control its operation. This class of valves is manufactured in the U.S. Plastics of Lima, Ohio.

Figures 17 A to 17L are diagrams showing states of the container 300 and valves 366 and 374 illustrative of the operation of the container, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Before operation, chamber 322 of container 300 is empty, and the valves are open. The user 25 enters the car 22, starts the engine and, to defrost the windshield 24, starts the pump 40. The pump generates a pressure in the intake port 34. This pressure is detected by the valve 366, which automatically it closes without any command from controller 46. This position is shown in Figure 17 A.

Next, valve 366 alerts controller 46 to start a defrosting process. The first stage of this process is to heat the element 304 by connecting the battery 42 through the element 304. In the absence of water in the chamber 322, the chamber quickly heats up to a very high temperature. The temperature of the camera is monitored by a sensor, such as sensor 64, installed in the camera. When the sensor reaches a pre-set level, preferably around 600 ° C, the controller 46 opens the valve 366 and, after a short period, closes the valve 374, thereby allowing the washing fluid to circulate and enter the camera 322 (Figure 17B).

Next, the controller monitors the temperature of the fluid in the chamber. When this temperature reaches approximately 58º C, the controller disconnects element 304 from the battery and waits for the driver to restart pump 40 (Figure 17 C). When the pump has restarted, the pressure is detected by valve 366 and causes the valve to open. When the valve opens, controller 46 detects this action and causes the valve to open

374. The result is that hot water circulates from chamber 322 through discharge 36 to windshield 24 (Figure 17D). The initial jet is really a mixture of hot water and steam, which causes the ice deposited in the spray heads 32 to melt and free the spray head nozzles. The steam could also be generated in the position of Figure 17A, because some water has remained in the chamber 322 after the previous operation.

After the pump 40 stops the pressure pulse, the valves 366 and 374 remain open, allowing water to circulate in the opposite direction from the discharge 36 through the chamber 322 and back out through the intake 34 to the reservoir 30 (Figure 17 E). When this counterflow ceases, as detected by valve 374, this valve closes (Figure 17F). Then, controller 46 forces valve 366 to close as well (Figure 17G). Thus, an amount of fluid is trapped in chamber 322, and element 304 begins to heat the fluid. When the fluid reaches 58 ° C, the element 304 is disconnected, and the container 300 waits for the next operation of the pump 40 (Figure 17H). This operation is detected (Figure 17I) as indicated above, causing the entire process to be repeated (Figure 17J).

The controller 46 timing the interval between the last counterflow and the next sudden increase in pressure of the pump 40. If more than one minute is measured, and no pressure is detected, the controller 46 purges the chamber 322 by first closing the valves 366 and 374 (Figure 17K) and activating element 304, to raise the temperature of the fluid contained in the chamber to a very high value. Then, the valves are closed (Figure 17L), allowing the fluid to escape in the form of steam. Then, controller 46 cuts off the power supply and waits for the next operation. A similar process could be applied to container 150 (shown in Figures 9 to 13B).

It will be noted that the preferred embodiments described above have been cited by way of example, and that the total scope of the invention is limited only by the claims.

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Claims (16)

1. An apparatus for cleaning a window of a vehicle, comprising: a container (28), which has an intake (34) through which a washing fluid is received from a reservoir (30) and a discharge (36) through which the fluid is discharged to clean the window (24); a heating element (50) for heating the fluid contained in the container; a temperature detector (64), which detects a temperature in the container (28); means (74) (40) for controlling the circulation of fluid flowing through the container; Y a controller (46); characterized in that the means (74) (40) for controlling the circulation of the fluid passing through the Containers are configured under the control of the controller (46) to intermittently release some amounts of fluid through the discharge at an expected temperature, in response to the temperature detected by the sensor.

2.

An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a windshield wiper (44) is intermittently activated to clean the window in response to intermittent fluid release.

3.

An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the controller (46) regulates the intermittent release of the fluid according to a certain sequence of times.

Four.

An apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the sequence of times is varied in response to an ambient temperature in the vehicle.

5.

An apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the sequence of times is varied in response to a temperature of an exterior surface of the window.

6.

An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the initial amount of the fluid is released at a pressure substantially higher than the subsequent amounts.

7.

 An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the controller analyzes the sensor signals to detect a malfunction of the apparatus and interrupts the operation of the heating element

8.

An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein an additional temperature sensor (86) is fixed on an exterior surface of the window to be cleaned.

9.

An apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the additional temperature sensor (86) is covered by an at least partially reflective cover (88) in order to substantially neutralize the effect of solar radiation on it.

10.

An apparatus according to claim 1, and comprising a remote entry device, which is activated by a vehicle user to initiate operation of the apparatus.

eleven.

An apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the remote entry device activates a windshield wiper to clean the window fluid.

12. An apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the means (74)

(40)

 To control the circulation of the fluid through the container comprise a valve.

13. An apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the means (74)

(40)

 To control the circulation of the fluid through the vessel comprise a pump.

14.

A method for cleaning a window of a vehicle using a fluid and washing, characterized by repeating a plurality of times in sequence the steps of: heating a quantity of the fluid;

monitor a temperature of the amount of fluid; discharge the quantity when a predetermined condition is satisfied in the heating of the fluid.

fifteen.

 A method according to claim 14, wherein the predetermined condition is satisfied when the temperature of the amount of the fluid reaches a selected level.

16.

 A method according to claim 14, wherein the predetermined condition is satisfied when a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the beginning of the heating.