RELATED APPLICATION 
       [0001]    This application is a continuation-in-part of and claims the benefit of and priority from U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/766,643, filed Jun. 21, 2007, entitled MULTIPURPOSE AQUEOUS PARTS WASHER, which is a continuation-in-part of and claims the benefit of and priority from U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/681,652, filed Mar. 2, 2007, entitled MULTIPURPOSE AQUEOUS PARTS WASHER, which applications are expressly incorporated herein by reference. 
     
    
     FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE 
       [0002]    The present disclosure relates generally to a multipurpose aqueous parts washer used to wash grease, oil, dirt, or other debris from mechanical parts, and more particularly, to a parts washer having a housing with an automatic spray-washing portion, a soak-agitated portion, and a manual sink washing portion for cleaning parts. 
       BACKGROUND 
       [0003]    The present disclosure relates to an apparatus for washing mechanical parts using a multipurpose aqueous parts washer. Mechanical parts collect dirt, abrasion residue, used grease, or other debris during normal operation. During periodic maintenance, extraordinary maintenance, repairs, or even scheduled upgrades, mechanics disassemble parts from a larger mechanical element, such as a car engine. Individual parts and subassemblies must be washed before they are either thrown away, diagnosed, or eventually reinstalled in the mechanical device or before they are reconditioned for further use. 
         [0004]    A parts washer is an apparatus that cleans parts, either individually or in groups of parts, including but not limited to machinery and machine parts. Parts washers can also clean elements such as chains, tools, or other elements susceptible to contact with greased or oiled parts. These cabinet-size devices are an essential tool for any mechanic or other worker having to clean parts in a workshop. For example, automobile mechanics place parts washers alongside tools or next to their work area. 
         [0005]    The core technology associated with parts washers is not unlike the technology associated with the cleaning of kitchen utensils and other food preparation accessories, the significant difference being that mechanical parts washer residue must be controlled before the effluents are released into the environment. Therefore, a different cleaning solutions must often be used, parts are generally washed infrequently once dirt is dried, oil-based effluents must be collected and confined, insoluble debris must be collected and filtered as sludge, and cleaning solutions are regenerated. The workshop environment in which the parts washers are used also differs. Some parts washers use an aqueous cleaning solution to dissolve and remove grease, carbon, resins, tar, inks, and other debris. These parts washers use water, soap, and/or detergents, common or proprietary. Other more aggressive parts washers use hydrocarbon-based solvents or other solvents to degrease and wash parts. This disclosure contemplates a parts washer using any type of cleaning solution, but more preferably, a parts washer using an aqueous-based cleaning solution. 
         [0006]    Parts washers are generally stored where parts are removed or processed for convenient use. Confined spaces and other constraints associated with workshops warrant compact and portable devices. Parts washers must also be robust and durable under strenuous environments. Four different technologies are know in the industry: manual parts washing, automatic parts washing, spray spray-under immersion cleaning, and soaked parts washing. Manual parts washers generally resemble a sink positioned over a reservoir holding a cleaning fluid. An operator of the manual parts washer may push a pedal or take another action to activate a pump and heating element located within the reservoir to circulate cleaning fluid. The advantages of manual parts washers are numerous. For instance, they allow for tactile recognition of fine layers of dirt, the focus of cleaning efforts at a specific location, and cleaning conducted immediately by the operator. 
         [0007]    Automatic parts washers normally consist of a housing holding some basket for storage and removal of parts within the housing. Automatic devices have large access doors, a control apparatus for programming spraying cycles, and pumps/heaters for activating the cleaning solution within the device. The advantages of automatic parts washers over manual parts washers includes time saving, the capacity to store dirty parts within the enclosure between washes, parts washing during off-hours, the capacity to utilize pressures and temperatures outside of the human comfort zones, and most importantly, the reduction of the need for the operator to dirty his hands during the washing operation. Other technologies used to wash parts include soaking and agitating, where parts are immersed in a volume placed within a constant, regenerated flow of cleaning solution or with a series of immersed sprays within the regenerated flow or placed in a cross flow of cleaning solution. These washers allow for the slow removal of attached dirt by using a relatively low quantity of cleaning fluid. 
         [0008]    Each of these different technologies has distinct advantages and disadvantages. Different washers are currently needed if different advantages are desired since the management of parts, cleaning solutions, debris, and sludge differs greatly between these devices. What is needed is a device capable of offering the advantages associated with each of these technologies within a single apparatus capable of handling the constraints associated with these types of washers. What is also needed is a series of operative and functional improvements associated with the use of a single device with multiple washing solutions. 
       SUMMARY 
       [0009]    One aspect of the present disclosure relates generally to a multipurpose parts washer used to remove grease, oil, and dirt from mechanical parts, and more particularly, to an apparatus for washing parts within a single housing having an automatic cleaning portion, with a first cleaning chamber for spraying parts, a second cleaning chamber for soaking or agitating parts, and a manual cleaning portion. The multipurpose parts washer may include three cleaning portions, all portions provided cleaning solution by a single pump, a reservoir portion to collect and store an important volume of cleaning solution and debris from the washing process, a single controller interface operated from a display, and a thermal energy source for healing the cleaning solution. The multipurpose design may also include other novel features such as the use of a submerged pump within the reservoir, easy-access panels for the pump motor, the controller, and the display, an integrated sink serving as a safety lid of the automatic portion to collect the cleaning solution of the manual cleaning portion and to enclose the automatic cleaning portion, and the use of a timer and a multicolor display for easy operation of each of the cleaning portions. The design may also include a concurrent multifunction cleaning feature, a thermally activated safety lid, an immersion agitation tank, and a removable flat or V-shaped debris pan. 
         [0010]    The multipurpose design may also include a dynamic spray bar in the agitation tank for improved cleaning during agitation, and a spay distribution system and associated spray bars capable of rotational adjustment and pivot to direct the sprays to a desired portion of the first cleaning chamber and allowing better access to the reservoir portion and other cleaning equipment located within the automatic cleaning portion of the apparatus for washing parts. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0011]    The following disclosure as a whole may be best understood by reference to the provided detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, drawing description, summary, abstract, background of the disclosure, field of the disclosure, and associated headings. Identical reference numerals when found on different figures identify the same elements or a functionally equivalent element. The elements listed in the summary and abstract are not referenced but nevertheless refer by association to the elements of the detailed description and associated disclosure. 
           [0012]      FIG. 1  is a partly exploded perspective view of the multipurpose aqueous parts washer in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure with the manual cleaning portion in an open configuration and where the pull-out rack is shown partially removed. 
           [0013]      FIG. 2  is a perspective view of the multipurpose aqueous parts washer of  FIG. 1  without the pull-out rack with internal portions shown by transparency and with cleaning solution within the agitation tank. 
           [0014]      FIG. 3  is a perspective view of the multipurpose aqueous parts washer of  FIG. 1  with the manual cleaning portion in a closed configuration. 
           [0015]      FIG. 4  is a side elevation of the multipurpose aqueous parts washer of  FIG. 1  in the configuration and as shown in  FIG. 2  along line  4 - 4 . 
           [0016]      FIG. 5  is a side elevation of the multipurpose aqueous parts washer of  FIG. 1  in the configuration and as shown in  FIG. 2  along line  5 - 5 . 
           [0017]      FIG. 6  is a top view of the multipurpose aqueous parts washer of  FIG. 1  in an open configuration. 
           [0018]      FIG. 7  is a schematic representation of the different elements within the multipurpose aqueous parts washer of  FIG. 1  in the closed configuration. 
           [0019]      FIG. 8  is a back perspective view of the multipurpose aqueous parts washer as shown in  FIG. 1  in an open configuration with the safety lid closed with shadow view of the elements located within the basin. 
           [0020]      FIG. 9  is a back perspective view of the multipurpose aqueous parts washer of  FIG. 8  without the shadow view. 
           [0021]      FIG. 10  is a side elevation of the multipurpose aqueous parts washer of  FIG. 1  in the configuration and as shown in  FIG. 3  along line  4 - 4  with a V-shaped debris pan. 
           [0022]      FIG. 11  is a schematic representation of the different elements within the multipurpose aqueous parts washer of  FIG. 1  in the closed configuration equipped with a V-shaped pan. 
           [0023]      FIG. 12  is a top view of another embodiment of the multipurpose aqueous parts washer of  FIG. 1  in an open configuration with spray bars rotatably connected to the distribution bar. 
           [0024]      FIG. 13  is a side elevation of the multipurpose aqueous parts washer shown in  FIG. 4  with spray bars rotatably connected to the distribution bar. 
           [0025]      FIG. 14  is a schematic representation of the different elements within the multipurpose aqueous parts washer of  FIG. 4  in the closed configuration. 
           [0026]      FIG. 15  is a schematic representation of the spray portion of the first cleaning chamber where the sprays are directed to the center of the spray portion according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. 
           [0027]      FIG. 16  is a schematic representation of the spray portion of the first cleaning chamber where the sprays are directed to the bottom of the spray portion according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. 
           [0028]      FIG. 17  is a schematic representation of a possible flexible collar and clips for the rotatable connection of a spray bar to a distribution bar according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. 
           [0029]      FIG. 18  is a perspective view of the multipurpose aqueous parts washer of  FIG. 1  without the pull-out rack with internal portions shown by transparency with a pivoting spray bar according to another embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0030]      FIG. 19  is a side elevation of the multipurpose aqueous parts washer of  FIG. 1  in the configuration and as shown in  FIG. 18  along line  19 - 19 . 
           [0031]      FIG. 20  is a side elevation of the multipurpose aqueous parts washer of  FIG. 1  in the configuration and as shown in  FIG. 18  along line  20 - 20 . 
           [0032]      FIG. 21  is a top view of the multipurpose aqueous parts washer of  FIG. 1  in the configuration and as shown in  FIG. 18  in an open configuration. 
           [0033]      FIG. 22  is a schematic representation of the different elements within the multipurpose aqueous parts washer of  FIG. 1  in the configuration and as shown in  FIG. 18  in the closed configuration. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0034]      FIG. 1  is a partly exploded perspective view of the multipurpose aqueous parts washer in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure with a manual cleaning portion in an open configuration and where a pull-out rack is shown partially removed.  FIG. 1  shows an apparatus for washing parts  1  having an automatic cleaning portion  2  defined by a first cleaning chamber  102  and a second cleaning chamber  101 . The apparatus for washing parts  1  in one embodiment includes a manual cleaning portion  103  movably connected to the automatic cleaning portion  2  by a series of pivoting points  23 . 
         [0035]    The apparatus for washing parts  1  in one embodiment includes two different washing chambers  101 ,  102  and a cleaning portion  103  that can each be operated by an operator when faced with different washing needs. Each chamber or portion  101 ,  102 , and  103  preferably shares a cleaning solution  100  common to each chamber or portion  101 ,  102 , and  103  and collected in a single reservoir portion  36 . It is understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that while three distinct chambers or portions  101 ,  102 ,  103  are shown in a certain spatial distribution, chambers and portions may be arranged in any spatial configuration. For example, one of ordinary skill in the art recognizes that while the apparatus for washing parts  1  is shown as a vertically stacked cabinet in a shape close to that of a shop tool box, the apparatus for washing parts  1  can be placed in numerous other locations having different spatial constraints, including but not limited to the need to attach the device to a ceiling, a top ledge, a bottom ledge, or installed in a countertop or work benches, or inserted in a portion of a vehicle, inside a sliding or rotating door, on a tool storage device, or even outside of a maintenance vehicle. For each of these and other uses, the displacement and reorientation of the chambers and portion  101 ,  102 , and  103  may be used in a wide variety of possible configurations that do not alter this disclosure. 
         [0036]    Users can use the apparatus for washing parts  1  to wash a single piece or numerous pieces in one of the portions  101 ,  102 ,  103 . In another embodiment, numerous parts can be washed simultaneously in the different portions  101 ,  102 ,  103 . A method is contemplated for washing a plurality of parts using an apparatus for washing parts  1  where in a first step, a first part to be washed is placed inside an automatic cleaning portion  2 , a second part is then placed inside an agitation tank such as the second cleaning chamber  101 . The cleaning portion  103  is then closed before placing a third part to be washed in the manual cleaning portion  103 . Finally, in the method, a pump  79  is activated as described hereafter to wash the first, second, and third parts placed in different cleaning portions  101 ,  102 ,  103 . In another embodiment, the pump  79  is activated only after at least two parts are placed in at least two different cleaning portions  101 ,  102 ,  103 . 
         [0037]    Use of different sizes and geometries of each chamber or portion  101 ,  102 , and  103  based on the different needs in the marketplace associated with a particular model of apparatus for washing parts  1  is also contemplated. As an example related to the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 1-8 , if this disclosure is adapted to the undercarriage of a moving maintenance vehicle of a speed car crew having specific needs for soaked washing of large parts, a larger second chamber  101  may be placed along the side the first chamber  102  of equivalent size and shape as the first chamber, and the manual cleaning portion  103  can be located above one or both of the chambers  101 ,  102 . 
         [0038]    In one embodiment shown in  FIG. 1 , the manual cleaning portion  103  is defined by a basin  104  shown in  FIG. 7  preferably made of a folded or bent sheet of metal  106 , which is best illustrated in  FIG. 5 , having a resistant polymer or vinyl coating  105  placed above the sheet of metal  106 . In one embodiment, for easy removal and replacement, the polymer coating  105  is not attached to the sheet of metal  106  but is held in place around the edges and drain  46 . It is understood by one of ordinary skill in the art is that the coating  105  above the sheet of metal  106  serves as a mechanical protector and chemical protector, the coating  105  can be removed or replaced by any other suitable laminated protector, including but not limited to paint, surface coating, or even the removal of the polymer coating  105  and replaced by a sheet of metal  106  having a surface like polished glass. It is also understood by one of ordinary skill in the art is the use of any other type of protector designed to withstand the shocks associated from placing parts to be washed within the basin  104  and capable of chemically withstanding any abrasion, corrosion, or degradation associated with the cleaning solution  100  used in the apparatus  1 . 
         [0039]    In one embodiment, the sheet of metal  106  may be made of a plate  47  folded in an open U shape or a V shape with gently sloping side walls placed in opposition to V-shaped end walls  45  to collect the effluents by gravity within the basin  104 . The basin  104  may also include a series of inwardly rolled lips  129  placed on the external periphery of the basin  104  to limit and control splashing. While inwardly rolled lips  129  are shown, any geometry on the outer periphery of the basin  104  or the use of a guard, splashguard, or protection locked into place to offer any similar protection to the operator may be used. Mats, tissues, or other materials at the bottom of the sink  104  that are designed to prevent splashing may also be used. 
         [0040]      FIG. 3  illustrates a bottom drain  46  on the bottom part of the sheet of metal  106 . The drain  46  allows for the transfer of a cleaning solution  100  sprayed within the basin  104  and collection through the drain  46  down into the first cleaning chamber  102 . A cleaning fluid  100  used in the apparatus  1  is released by a fluid distribution device  49  manually operated directly or with the help of tools and gloves by an operator.  FIGS. 3 and 8  show a bottom drain  46  having a first possible center strain  110 .  FIGS. 1-2  and  4 - 5  show the lower side of the bottom drain  46 . A anti-backsplash plate  17  shown in one disclosed embodiment as a plate attached by a vertical pole at a small distance from the bottom section of the drain  46 . The anti-backsplash plate  17  serves to prevent the cleaning fluid  100  from passing from the first cleaning chamber  102  to the basin  104 . While one type of device is shown having an anti-backsplash plate  17 , the use of any flow displacement system capable of preventing the cleaning fluid  100  from moving up back to the basin  104  during operation of the first cleaning chamber  101  is contemplated. 
         [0041]    In another embodiment, the bottom surface of the basin  104  forms a lid  106  to close the first cleaning chamber  102  when the lid  106  is disposed in a closed position as shown in  FIG. 3 . The lid  106  can also rotate via a pivoting point  23  to an open position as shown in  FIG. 1  to allow access into the first cleaning chamber  102 . In one embodiment, the basin  104  may be held in the open configuration by two lateral pistons  31  made of two interconnected sections attached on the external surface of the automatic cleaning area  2  and the basin  104 .  FIG. 1  shows the pistons  31  in an extended position, whereas  FIG. 3  shows the pistons  31  in a retracted position. One of ordinary skill in the art understands that while one type of holding device is shown, any locking or nonlocking holding device capable of operating the basin  104  between an open position and a closed position shown in  FIGS. 1 and 3 , respectively, may be used. 
         [0042]      FIG. 1  also shows a locking device  13  on the automatic cleaning area  2  operating in tandem with element  30  as shown on  FIG. 1  to lock the basin  104  serving as a lid  106  into the closed configuration as shown in  FIG. 3 . A mechanical proximity detector (not shown) operating with or without a counterpart surface allows the control system (described fully hereinafter) to recognize if the lid  106  is open, closed, or ajar. In one embodiment, the detector is part of the locking device  13 . In one contemplated embodiment, the control system turns off any operating cycle or flow from the pump  79  to prevent any spraying or splashing of the operator with cleaning solution  100  if the lid  106  is in the open position. One of ordinary skill in the art recognizes that while one type of proximity detector is placed within the locking device  13 , any type of proximity sensor is contemplated, including but not limited to a bending detector placed within the hinges  23  in the back of the lid  106 , a laser detector, a surface detector placed on the top of the automatic cleaning portion  2 , a mechanical detector where an insert on the bottom surface of the lid  106  enters the first cleaning chamber  102 , or the like. The use of any other type of locking mechanism  13 ,  30  designed to secure the basin  104  onto the automatic cleaning area  2  in any potential configuration of basin  104 , lid  106 , or automatic cleaning area  2  is also contemplated, including but not limited to a locking mechanism within the two lateral pistons  31 . 
         [0043]    In one embodiment,  FIG. 1  shows an apparatus having a wall protection plate  4  designed to house the basin  104  when in open configuration but also to hold different tools and useful items when the operator is washing parts in the manual cleaning portion  103 . Use of a series of hooks  21 ,  22 , lamps  20 , board holders  19 , or net holders  128  placed on the front face  24  of the wall protection plate  4  is contemplated. The object of the different components placed upon the wall protection plate  4  is to provide ease of use and operation to an operator of the apparatus  1  during the different phases of operation.  FIG. 1  shows a wall protection plate  4  attached  15  on both sides of the automatic cleaning area  2 . In another embodiment shown in  FIGS. 3-4 , the wall protection plate  4  includes locking mechanism  416  such as a hole capable of receiving a second end or in one embodiment a hook  415  or a latch  414 . The latch  414  is also attached at a first end to a safety lid  412  as shown in  FIGS. 5 and 9 . The safety lid  412  is pivotally attached  413  to a top section of the manual cleaning portion  103 . The safety lid can be placed an open configuration for access to the work area as shown in  FIG. 5  and a closed configuration for restricting access to the work area as shown in  FIG. 8 . In  FIG. 5 , the safety lid is held in the open configuration by a latch  414  where a thermally activated fusible link  411  is capable of releasing the safety lid  412  from the open configuration to the closed configuration when the fusible link  411  is thermally activated. One of ordinary skill recognizes that the safety system is designed to function when in the presence of fire or heat located within the apparatus  1 , to allow for the heat to rise to the fusible link  411  calibrated in such a way and at such a melting point to close the safety lid  412  on the manual cleaning portion  103 . The safety lid as shown is capable of limiting the supply of oxygen to fuel combustion within the apparatus  1 . This described feature is called an active safety device, which improves safety conditions of the apparatus  1  in the event of unsafe operating conditions. The active safety device uses gravity as the motor force to move the safety lid  412  from the open configuration to the closed configuration. Use of any active safety device implemented in conjunction with apparatus is contemplated, such as the use of other devices or systems that modify the configuration of the apparatus  1 , including but not limited to a foaming system or a chemical release system capable of changing the conditions and returning the device to safe conditions.  FIG. 5  shows a fire-activated fusible link  411  connected to one end of the latch and to an inside surface of the safety lid  412 . The use of any locking mechanism to be used in conjunction with the second end of the latch  414  is also contemplated, such as a magnet, a clamp, a tab, or a spring. 
         [0044]      FIG. 5  also shows the use of rollers  11  or wheels placed under the automatic cleaning area  2  to provide the apparatus  1  with horizontal mobility. Use of manually locking wheels or coasters to stabilize the apparatus  1  at a specific location is contemplated but not shown. Use of stabilizing weights for counter-balance or to reduce any ensuing waves created within the reservoir portion  36  in the cleaning solution  100  by moving elements placed within the automatic cleaning area  2  is also contemplated but not shown. Other vibration-reducing techniques, such as the use of ballasts (not shown) within the reservoir portion  36 , are equally contemplated and disclosed herein to reduce movement caused within the reservoir portion  36  due to moving elements or pumping effects  79  during the rotation of an internal moving element. 
         [0045]    Holding and storage surfaces  111  as shown in  FIG. 4  are use within the basin  104  to aid an operator and allow for flow of cleaning solution  100  from the parts once the parts washed and placed on the storage surfaces  111 . In one embodiment, the storage surface  111  is made of perforated metal and is attached to the V-shaped end walls  45 . While one possible type of storage surface  111  is shown, any type of ledge, ridge, pole, axis, support, or the like capable of serving as a resting place for parts washed in the basin  104  may be used. The basin  104  further comprises a handle  18  or a grasping mechanism designed to allow the operator to move the basin  104  from a first configuration to a second configuration (both configurations shown in  FIGS. 1 and 3 ). The basin  104  as shown on the left and right side elevation views of  FIGS. 4-5  has a front angle  50  forming a higher back wall than a front wall where the handle  18  is located in the front of the basin  104 . One of ordinary skill in the art recognizes that such geometric constructions, such as those shown in the disclosed possible embodiments, are functionally useful but in no way limit the scope of what is contemplated and can be adapted based on functional requirements of any specific type of apparatus for washing parts  1 . 
         [0046]    In one possible embodiment, the fluid distribution device  49  located in the basin  104  is supported on the bottom side of the basin  104  by a U-shaped connector  25  on a hose as shown in  FIG. 1 . The hose is, in one embodiment, split into two parallel sections  54 ,  107 , each including a manual control valve  51 ,  52  upstream of the sections  54 ,  107 , respectively, each having downstream a manual cleaning tool such as a quick-connect hose  48  or a flow-thru brush  43  designed with a brush ending  42 . The manual cleaning portion  103  is operated by an operator by placing a mechanical part to be washed inside of the basin  104  and then holding with a hand either one of the sections  54 ,  107  and the associated manual cleaning tool and opening the manual control valve  51 ,  52  associated with the section  54 ,  107  held by the operator to direct the flow of cleaning solution  100  onto the part. The manual control valve  51 ,  52  as shown is a manually activated flow regulator. While manual control valves  51 ,  52  are shown, any flow control device, either manual or electronically controlled to maintain the flow at appropriate speeds and pressures for parts washing, may be used. The use of pulsating flow is also contemplated. 
         [0047]      FIG. 2  shows in partially transparent view the first cleaning chamber  102  having a spray portion  108  located above a reservoir portion  36 . The reservoir portion  36  is configured to store and collect a cleaning solution  100  and collect debris. The spray portion includes a parts support  41  shown in  FIG. 7  and a spray bar  38  shown with at least one orifice  37  for distributing the cleaning solution  100  on the parts (not shown). The spray bar  38  as shown in  FIG. 2  is shaped with a top level  26  and a bottom level  40  each having orifices  37  oriented toward the central portion of the spray portion  108  to spray any parts placed within the portion. The spray bar  38  also includes a vertical section situated between the top level  26  and the bottom level  40 . 
         [0048]    A secondary bar is shown in  FIG. 2  as a possible configuration of orifice  37  distribution.  FIG. 7  shows small jets of cleaning solution  100  as dashed lines emanating from both the bottom level  40  and the top level  26  onto the spray portion  108 .  FIG. 7  illustrates the pull-out rack  7  shown in perspective view in  FIG. 1  in the form of a rack  3  with handles  16  with edges  35  placed in the spray portion  108  and having a center grid-like mesh  34 . A part placed within the spray portion  108  is sprayed by cleaning solution  100  from the top and the bottom. The spray bar  38  includes a first portion disposed adjacent to the parts support and the bottom level  40  and a second portion disposed adjacent to a top end and the top level  26  of the spray portion  108 . 
         [0049]    In an alternate embodiment shown in  FIGS. 12-17 , the spray bar  38  is a spray bar system  304  with at least one spray bar either on the top level  26  or the bottom level  40  where at least one spray bar is rotatably connected to a distribution bar  305 . The distribution bar  305  includes a top portion connected to the spray bar of the top level  26 , and a bottom portion connected to at least one spray bar of the bottom level  40 .  FIG. 17  shows a close-up view of a flexible collar  95  and two clips  98  each made in the preferred embodiment of metal strips  96  with openings where a screw is rotated  99  to tighten the strip from the position shown by the left clip to the position shown in the right clip. The flexible collar  95  can be made of any semi-rigid material such as high pressure hose or thick sheeting capable of withstanding internal pressure within the spray bar system  304  and any corrosion from the cleaning solution  100 . 
         [0050]      FIG. 15  shows a possible configuration where the two top level spray bars  26  and the two bottom level spray bars  40  are each directed and attached via a section of flexible collar  95  as shown on  FIG. 17  to spray the center of the figure identified by reference letter A. For example, if a large piece is placed within the rack  3 , on a parts support  41 , the configuration shown in  FIG. 15  allows the top level spray bars  26  to direct the cleaning solution  100  on the upper portion of the part.  FIG. 16  shows how each of the four bars  26 ,  40 , can be rotated to create a spray  94  that is more directed to the bottom portion of the figure identified by reference letter B. The second configuration can be used for example if only small chains are placed in the rack  3 . The distribution bar  305  can include as shown a top portion and a bottom portion, each connected to the top level spray bars  26  and the bottom level spray bars  40  respectively. As shown by the dashed lines, each of the spray bars  26 ,  40  can include at least one orifice  37  for distributing the cleaning solution  100  onto the parts. 
         [0051]    In a preferred embodiment, spay bars  26 ,  40  are rotatably connected to the distribution bar  305  either by an union (not shown) or a flexible collar as shown on  FIG. 17 . An union is a mechanical connector, generally with threads that locks into place either by screwing a pipe in place or other attachment mechanism. Any connection that may be secured in place by an operator during periodic changes or maintenance may be used. 
         [0052]    In another embodiment shown in  FIGS. 18 to 22 , instead of using flexible collars  95 , the bottom level spray bars  40  as shown in dashed lines pivot  342  around a bottom portion pivotally connected to the first spray bar  40  for lifting the spray bar from an operating position to the top position as illustrated by the arrow. The pump  79  can also be connected directly to the distribution bar  305  via a connector  341 . 
         [0053]    The advantages of these different embodiments where either part of the distribution system is moved as shown in  FIGS. 18-22 , or redirected as shown on  FIGS. 12-17 , include the capacity to provide better access to the inside second cleaning chamber  102 , reduce the pressure drop associated with the different elements within the system in order to increase the exit pressure at the different orifices  37 , and help with the access to the different internal elements such as the rack  3 . 
         [0054]    In one embodiment shown in  FIG. 7 , the first cleaning chamber  102  includes a debris collection pan  420  disposed between the spray portion  108  and the reservoir portion  36 . The debris collection pan  420  includes a bottom panel with a plurality of apertures. In one embodiment, the pan  420  is made of metal and has a flat bottom plate. In another embodiment shown in  FIGS. 10-11 , the debris collection pan  420  has a V-shaped bottom plate and is equipped with handles  421 . In a preferred embodiment, the bottom is made of 1/16″ thick perforated sheet of metal punched into a V shape at its center. Perforation may be used to provide visual guidance to operators when filling the reservoir portion  36  with cleaning solution  100 . An operator would fill the reservoir portion  36  until cleaning solution  100  can be seen at the low end of the pan  420  indicating that the entire volume under the pan  420  is filled with cleaning fluid. In another embodiment, an operator is guided through the steps of filling the reservoir portion  36  by a visual mark made on the internal surface of the reservoir portion  36 . While two different configurations of debris pans  420  are shown in  FIGS. 4 ,  7 , and  10 - 11 , different debris collection volumes made of any material capable of storing debris within the environment of the first cleaning chamber  102  are contemplated. 
         [0055]    In yet another embodiment, the perforated plate and side edges are in removable contact with the first cleaning chamber  102  as shown in  FIG. 7 . One of ordinary skill in the art recognizes that debris collection below the first cleaning chamber  102  can be made in a plurality of ways using pans of a plurality of techniques in a plurality of shapes with different meshes, materials, and fixation methods. The debris collection pan  420  must be capable of allowing for the cleaning solution  100  to pass unobstructed from the spray portion  108  to the reservoir portion  36  even if debris is positioned on the bottom panel of the pan  420 . Cleaning the pan  420  can be done using a plurality of techniques and methods, such as manual removal of the pan  420  when the device is open from the top and insertion of a sliding door on the external shell of the cleaning chamber  102  to allow for lateral evacuation of the pan  420 . Handles to hold and remove the pan  420  are also contemplated. 
         [0056]    Orifices, pipes, and supports of different sizes, configurations, and orientations enable parts to be adequately washed based on the washing conditions, such as but not limited to temperature, pressure, flow, and diluting capacity of the cleaning solution  100 . Grates may also be fixed directly to the side walls within the spray portion  108  to for horizontal support and to hold parts in the apparatus  1 . One of ordinary skill in the recognizes that while a rectangular geometry of the spray portion  108  is shown, the spray portion  108  may be of any geometry. Hooks, cables, rails, edges, or plates may also be used to hold parts within the apparatus  1  or to hold other parts or racks. 
         [0057]    The second cleaning chamber  101  in one embodiment may be an agitation tank of rectangular geometry designed to hold mechanical parts to be washed in an agitated flow of cleaning solution  100 . In one contemplated embodiment, a series of sprays operating in the cleaning solution  100  can be added to provide additional washing within the agitation tank as shown at  FIG. 22 . In one embodiment, the spray the agitation tank  101  is configured to store and collect a portion of the cleaning solution  100  and includes a agitation bar  343  connected to the pump  341  with at least one orifice for distributing the cleaning solution dynamically within the agitation tank. A valve  342  can be connected inline between the agitation tank  101  and the pump  341  to control the flow of the cleaning solution through the agitation bar  343  into the agitation tank  101 . What is shown is one possible way to use the cleaning solution  100  to provide dynamic washing to any part (not shown) placed within the agitation tank  101  without having the need for manual cleaning. 
         [0058]    A connector  39  shown in  FIG. 2  is in fluid communication with the spray bar  38  and allows for a flow of cleaning solution  100  to the bottom of the agitation tank. The agitation tank includes a top opening and a bottom inlet  427  for circulation of the cleaning solution  100  from the bottom inlet  427  of the agitation tank up to the top of the agitation tank and through the top opening. In one embodiment, a notch is shown to guide the flow through the top opening, but one of ordinary skill understands that overflow over the top opening is also contemplated. A three-way valve with a first opening is connected to the bottom inlet  427 , a second opening is connected to the spray bar, and a third opening is in communication with the first cleaning chamber  102 . The three-way valve can also include a manual selector having a first orientation where the first and second openings are in fluidic communication to circulate the cleaning solution in the agitation tank and a second orientation where the first and third openings are in fluidic communication to drain the cleaning solution  100  from the agitation tank into the first cleaning chamber  102 . 
         [0059]    In one embodiment, the flow is continuous and allows for surface regeneration of the cleaning solution  100  within the agitation tank by creating a constant overflow of the cleaning solution  100  back into the reservoir portion  36  in order to dilute any suspended particles of debris in the cleaning solution  100 . One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that other methods are contemplated to conduct flow regeneration within the second cleaning chamber  101  such as a drain valve at the bottom of the agitation tank, a pressure-sensitive control flow valve acting as a bottom drain calibrated to maintain the level of cleaning fluid  100  within the agitation tank, the use of a removable container such as a basket or the like for pouring the cleaning solution back into the reservoir portion  36 . A notch  247  as shown on  FIG. 2  can be used to facilitate the flow from the second cleaning chamber  101  to the first cleaning chamber  102 . 
         [0060]    The second cleaning chamber  101  as shown is placed adjacent to the first cleaning chamber  102  with a top opening in communication with the top surface of the automatic cleaning portion  2 . This allows easy access by an operator simply by placing the lid  106  in the open configuration by holding the handle  18  and accessing both the first cleaning chamber  102  and the second cleaning chamber  101 . While one possible method of access is shown, placement of the second cleaning chamber  101  may be at any judicious position within the automatic cleaning portion  2 , including but not limited to the placement within a rack, a protuberance, an enclosure, or other bodies that may be placed in fluid communication with the first cleaning chamber  102 . Use of baskets, slow-acting brushes, or other moving parts to improve the cleaning capacity of the agitation tank is also contemplated. Other means of cleaning within the second cleaning chamber are contemplated, including but not limited to ultrasonic cleaning.  FIG. 1  also discloses the use of a bottom drain  12  used to drain the reservoir section  36  during maintenance. 
         [0061]    The apparatus for washing parts  1  further includes a thermal energy source  120  having an element section  56  and a control section  121  disposed in the reservoir portion  36  contiguous with the cleaning solution  100  for controlling the temperature of the cleaning solution  100 . Because a single cleaning solution  100  is used throughout the apparatus for washing parts  1 , the cleaning solution  100  is heated to operating temperatures by a single element section  56  located in the reservoir portion  36 . In one embodiment, the fluid is heated to a range of 120° F. to 125° F.  FIG. 8  shows the use of a back door  9  attached using a fixation means  10  such as screws or bolts to provide access to the control section  121  of the thermal energy source  120 .  FIG. 6  shows the compartment  80  created to house the control section  121  of the thermal energy source  120 . In yet another embodiment, a thermal energy source  120  made of a single block can be placed within the reservoir portion  36  to heat the cleaning solution  100  locally or in a close proximity to the inlet of the pump  79 . In this embodiment, the reservoir portion  36  can be increased in size by removing the compartment  80 . The use of a thermal junction having leak-proof seals between the compartment  80  and the reservoir portion  36  is not disclosed but is known by one of ordinary skill in the art. In one embodiment, heat is activated and controlled by placing the surface temperature of the element section  56  in close proximity to the equilibrium temperature of the cleaning solution  100 . 
         [0062]    A thermal sensor (not shown) placed in communication with the cleaning solution  100  is used to regulate the temperature of the cleaning solution  100  by alternatively energizing and turning off the thermal energy source  120 . In yet another embodiment, the regulation of the temperature is selected the operator on the display  6  using a temperature selection knob (not shown). While one possible temperature control device is shown, any method of thermal regulation of the cleaning solution  100  either in a single source, a diffuse source, or a plurality of sources may be used. Calibration of the heating source  120  to other operating and equilibrium temperatures based on the optimal temperature of the cleaning solution  100  is also contemplated. Two different energy sources may also be used, the first to heat the cleaning solution  100  to a first operating temperature based on the optimal operating temperature during a manual washing operation and a second to heat the cleaning solution locally before it is sprayed onto parts located within the spray portion  108 . In one embodiment, an inclined wall is placed on the separation wall between the compartment  80  and the reservoir portion  36 . 
         [0063]    The apparatus for washing parts  1  also includes a pump  79  placed in fluid communication with the cleaning fluid  100  in the reservoir portion  36 .  FIG. 5  shows the pump  79  as having a fixation plate  71  and a motor  70  for energizing the pump  79 . In one embodiment, the pump  79  is disposed in the reservoir portion  36  and is in fluid communication with the spray bar  38 , the agitation tank  101 , and the fluid distribution device  49  for circulating the cleaning solution  100  from the reservoir portion  36  to at least one of the agitation tank  101 , the fluid distribution device  49 , or the spray bar  38 . The pump motor  70  is placed in an enclosure  125  protected by a side door  124  as shown in  FIG. 8 . The pump  79  pushes cleaning fluid  100  to the other sections of the apparatus for washing parts  1 . In one embodiment, the reservoir portion  36  has a capacity of up to 20 gallons. 
         [0064]    The apparatus for washing parts  1  also includes a control system  200  for controlling the device described above, and more specifically, an automatic cleaning portion  2  defined by a first cleaning chamber  102  including a spray portion  108  and a reservoir portion  36 , the spray portion  38  having a parts support  41 , and a spray bar  38  with at least one orifice for distributing a cleaning solution  100  onto the parts (not shown), the reservoir portion  36  configured to store and collect the cleaning solution  100 . The manual cleaning portion  103  is movably connected via a pivoting point  23  to the automatic cleaning portion  2  and is defined by a basin  104  including a drain  46  and a fluid distribution device  49 , wherein the fluid distribution device  49  discharges the cleaning solution  100  into the basin  104  for collection through the drain  46  into the first cleaning chamber  102 , and a plug  5  adapted for electrical connection  27  to an external power supply for energizing a controller  201  for selectively activating at least a timer  7  in the automatic cleaning portion  2 , a proximity detector (not shown) between the automatic cleaning portion  2  and the manual cleaning portion  103 , a thermal energy source  56  in contact with the cleaning fluid  100  in the reservoir portion  36 , a pump  79  disposed in the reservoir portion  36  in fluidic communication with the spray bar  38  and the fluid distribution device  49  for circulating the cleaning solution  100  from the reservoir portion  36  to at least one of the fluid distribution device  49  or the spray bar  38 . The controller  201  further energizes a first display  32  when the pump  79  is energized, energizes a second display  124  when the cleaning fluid falls below a fixed level in the reservoir portion  36 , and a third display  123  when the thermal energy source  56  energizes the cleaning solution  100 . 
         [0065]    A control system  200  energized by an energy input device is disclosed having a plug  5  having an electrical connection  27  of with a ground wire (three-ended plug). Grounding of the device and the use of a plug  5  having an electrical connection  27  without a ground wire is also contemplated. The plug  5  can be rolled up around a support  130 , shown in  FIG. 8 . In one embodiment, a water level detector  77  having a water detector  78  is connected to the control system  200 . The level detector  77  serves to prevent the pump  79  from being damaged by overheating when running in air rather than submerged within cleaning solution  100 . In one alternate embodiment, the level detector as shown is connected directly to the pump  79 . 
         [0066]    In one embodiment, the control system  200  is operated by the operator via a display  6  where a green light is the first display  127  with a rotating on/off switch, the second display  32  is an orange light for monitoring the heating element, and the third display  123  is a red light for monitoring the water level. In one embodiment, the user turns the timer  7  clockwise for a desired duration of time. In another embodiment, the timer  7  is set to one-quarter hour. The use of a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) breaker  8  placed under a protection plate and within the display  6  is also shown. This breaker allows users to reset the device in case of interruption of the process, such as, but not limited to the malfunction of a component or the failure of the level detector  77  to detect cleaning solution  100  in the reservoir portion  36  or a short circuit. 
         [0067]    Persons of ordinary skill in the art appreciate that although the teachings of the disclosure have been illustrated in connection with certain embodiments, there is no intent to limit the invention to such embodiments. On the contrary, the intention of this application is to cover all modifications and embodiments falling fairly within the scope of the teachings of the disclosure.
The present disclosure relates generally to a multipurpose parts washer used to remove grease, oil, and dirt from mechanical parts, and more particularly, to an apparatus for washing parts within a single housing having an automatic cleaning portion, with a first cleaning chamber for spraying parts, a second cleaning chamber for soaking and agitating parts, and a manual cleaning portion. The multipurpose design also includes novel features such as the use of a submerged pump within the reservoir, easy-access panels for the pump motor, the controller, and the display, an integrated sink serving as a safety lid of the automatic portion to collect the cleaning solution of the manual cleaning portion and to enclose the automatic cleaning portion, and the use of a timer and a multicolor display for easy operation of each of the cleaning portions. The design may also include a concurrent multifunction cleaning feature, a thermally activated safety lid, an immersion agitation tank, and a removable flat or V-shaped debris pan. The multipurpose design may also include a dynamic spray bar in the agitation tank for improved cleaning during agitation, and a spay distribution system and associated spray bars capable of rotational adjustment and pivot to direct the sprays to a desired portion of the first cleaning chamber and allowing better access to the reservoir portion and other cleaning equipment located within the automatic cleaning portion of the apparatus for washing parts.