Apparatus and method for cleaning soiled surfaces with...

Abstract

A method and apparatus for cleaning exterior surfaces, particularly aircraft exteriors, which method and apparatus applies cleaning solution to a soiled surface, scours the surface, squeegees the contaminated solution from the surface and evacuates it through a vacuum manifold for collection and environmentally appropriate disposal. Applicant's method and apparatus are designed principally to alleviate the problem of toxic run-off and ground water pollution as attends present-day wash-rack or bucket and brush type washing operations. Applicant's method and apparatus are also beneficial from a convenience standpoint, as an aircraft may be cleaned in any location without the necessity of removing the aircraft to a maintenance facility. Applicant's method and apparatus are also useful for other exterior surfaces, such as for cleaning skyscraper surfaces.

1 . A cleaning apparatus comprising: 
 a vacuum manifold defining a vacuum orifice and having vacuum connection means for operable connection with a vacuum unit;    a first spray nozzle supported near said vacuum manifold and operably connected to a cleaning solution conduit for conducting cleaning solution, under pressure, through said spray nozzle to a soiled surface;    a first serrated squeegee blade supported near a first elongate side of said vacuum orifice; and    a second squeegee blade supported near a second elongate side of said vacuum orifice, opposite said first elongate side of said vacuum orifice.    
   
   
       2 . The system of  claim 1  further comprising: 
 first scouring means supported by said vacuum manifold for scouring said soiled surface.    
   
   
       3 . A method of cleaning a surface comprising the steps of: 
 selecting a cleaning apparatus, said cleaning apparatus comprising: 
 a vacuum manifold defining a vacuum orifice and having vacuum connection means for operable connection with a vacuum unit;  
 a first spray nozzle supported near said vacuum manifold and operably connected to a cleaning solution conduit for conducting cleaning solution, under pressure, through said spray nozzle to a soiled surface;  
 a first serrated squeegee blade supported near a first elongate side of said vacuum orifice; and  
 a second squeegee blade supported near a second elongate side of said vacuum orifice, opposite said first elongate side of said vacuum orifice.  
   attaching said vacuum manifold to said vacuum unit;    attaching said cleaning solution conduit to a source of pressurized cleaning solution;    spraying said cleaning solution onto said surface; and    passing said vacuum manifold over said surface in a direction whereby said serrated squeegee blade first passes thereover, followed by said vacuum orifice, followed by said second squeegee blade.    
   
   
       4 . The method of  claim 3  wherein said surface is the skin of an aircraft.