TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present subject matter relates in general to chain cleaning apparatuses, and in particular, to chain cleaning apparatuses which can be used for cleaning chains of varying lengths.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Maintaining chains in chain driven vehicles by cleaning and lubricating the chains helps in reducing wear of the chains and sprockets, reducing chances of failure, and ensuring a smooth noise free operation. Chain cleaning can be performed using hand-held devices. Generally, such hand-held devices use a brush to remove unwanted solid depositions on the chain. The chain can then be lubricated manually by using lubricating oil and grease.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0003] The detailed description is described with reference to the accompanying
figures. In the figures, the left-most digit(s) of a reference number identifies the
figure in which the reference number first appears. The same numbers are used
throughout the drawings to reference like features and components.
[0004] Fig. 1 depicts a block diagram of a chain cleaning apparatus, in accordance
with an example implementation of the present subject matter.
[0005] Fig. 2(a) depicts schematics of internal components of an example chain
cleaning apparatus, in accordance with an example implementation of the present
subject matter.
[0006] Fig. 2(b) depicts a rear-view of the example chain cleaning apparatus, in
accordance with an example implementation of the present subject matter.
[0007] Fig. 2(c) depicts a top perspective view of a grease unit, in accordance with an
example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0008] Fig. 3 depicts a side-view of the example chain cleaning apparatus, in
accordance with an example implementation of the present subject matter.
[0009] Fig. 4 depicts an external/perspective view of the example chain cleaning
apparatus, in accordance with an example implementation of the present subject
matter.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[00010] The present subject matter provides chain cleaning apparatuses for cleaning chains.
[00011] Chains in chain driven vehicles require periodic maintenance to ensure noise free operation of the vehicles, reduction in wear of chain and sprockets, and reduction in chances of failure of the vehicle. Hand-held chain cleaning machines have been used for cleaning and maintenance of chains. The hand-held chain cleaning machines, generally, use a brush to remove unwanted solid depositions on the chain. Lubricating oil may then be manually applied on the chains. Therefore, hand-held chain cleaning machines do not possess oil capacity or oil pressure for cleaning and lubricating the chain. Further, hand-held chain cleaning machines are generally not suitable for cleaning heavy duty drive chains because of possibility of injuries due to slippage between the hand-held chain cleaning machine and the chain.
[00012] Non-hand-held chain cleaning machines, hereinafter referred to as chain cleaning apparatuses, have been developed for simultaneously cleaning, lubricating, and handling heavy duty chains. In these apparatuses, the chain to be cleaned is placed on sprockets. A motor coupled to one of the sprockets is actuated to rotate the chain. Solenoid valves and oil pumps in the apparatuses are manually actuated to provide air for cleaning the chain and to provide lubricating oil to the chain. [00013] Such chain cleaning apparatuses, generally, require manual intervention during various steps of cleaning. Further, these apparatuses generally have a preset time duration for cleaning which is independent of chain length and degree of fouling. These apparatuses are thus incapable of calculating and setting time for chain

cleaning based on the chain length and the degree of fouling. Instrumentation diagnostics of various components of these apparatuses is also difficult. Further, due to error of service personnel, for example, actuation of motor, solenoid valves, and oil pumps in the absence of the chain in the apparatus can lead to wastage of power, undesired oil circulation in the apparatus, and consequently a higher cost for servicing and maintenance of chains.
[00014] The present subject matter addresses these and other problems of conventional chain cleaning apparatuses. An example chain cleaning apparatus comprises a sprocket assembly mounted on a frame. The sprocket assembly can engage with a chain for cleaning it. The sprocket assembly can comprise a primary sprocket and at least one secondary sprocket. The chain can pass over the primary sprocket and the at least one secondary sprocket. The primary sprocket can be coupled axially to a shaft of a motor. Actuation of the motor causes rotation of the primary sprocket. Rotation of the primary sprocket causes rotation of the at least one secondary sprocket and movement of the chain. An adjustable arm can be mounted on the frame between the primary sprocket and at least one secondary sprocket. The chain can pass over the adjustable arm in between the primary sprocket and the secondary sprocket. An angular position of the adjustable arm in the chain cleaning apparatus can be varied based on a length of the chain.
[00015] A rotary sensor can be coupled to the adjustable arm to provide a position signal indicative of the position of the adjustable arm. A control unit in the chain cleaning apparatus can receive the position signal and determine a time duration for cleaning of the chain based on the position signal.
[00016] In one example, the rotary sensor can be coupled to a first pulley. The first pulley can be at one end of the adjustable arm and can be pivotably coupled to the frame to change the angular position of the adjustable arm. A second pulley can be at another end of the adjustable arm. The second pulley may not be coupled to the frame and may therefore be free to move relative to the frame based on pivoting of the first

pulley. A connecting arm can be provided between the first pulley and the second pulley. The connecting arm can comprise a lock structure to lock the adjustable arm at one of a plurality of positions, on pivoting of the first pulley, based on a length of the chain.
[00017] An air supply unit coupled to the sprocket assembly can supply pressurized air over the chain during rotation of the chain for the determined time duration to clean the chain. In an example, the air supply unit can comprise a compressor to provide pressurized air for cleaning the chain. A solenoid valve can regulate pressurized air supplied by the air supply unit. The air supply unit can also comprise an air spray nozzle to spray the pressurized air on the chain. The control unit can actuate the solenoid valve for the determined time duration
[00018] In one example, a proximity sensor may be provided adjacent to the chain. The proximity sensor can provide a proximity signal to the control unit. The control unit can receive the proximity signal from the proximity sensor. The proximity signal is indicative of one of: a presence of the chain and an absence of the chain. The chain cleaning apparatus, therefore, can detect presence of the chain and can immediately provide alerts in case of any error.
[00019] In one example, an oil supply unit can be coupled to the sprocket assembly to supply pressurized oil to the chain during rotation of the chain. The oil supply unit can comprise an oil reservoir to store oil. An oil pump provided in the oil reservoir can pump the oil to an oil spray nozzle. The oil spray nozzle can spray the pressurized oil on the chain. The control unit can actuate the oil pump for the determined time duration.
[00020] In an example, a grease unit can be coupled to the chain cleaning apparatus. The grease unit can comprise an oil heater tank to store oil for heating, hereinafter also referred to as heating oil. A grease tank of the grease unit can store grease to be used for lubrication of the chain after it has been cleaned. The grease tank can be provided in the oil heater tank. A heater coupled to the oil heater tank can heat the

heating oil and thereby heat the grease to a predetermined temperature. A temperature sensor coupled to the oil heater tank can provide a temperature signal indicative of a measured temperature of the heating oil to the control unit. A level sensor coupled in the oil heater tank can provide a level signal indicative of a level of heating oil in the oil heater tank to the control unit.
[00021] Based on the received temperature signal, the control unit can turn on the heater to increase a temperature of the heating oil when the measured temperature is less than a predetermined temperature and can turn off the heater when the measured temperature is more than the predetermined temperature. Based on the level signal, the control unit can provide a low-level error output when the level of heating oil in the oil heater tank is less than a threshold level and turn off the heater.
[00022] The present subject matter, therefore, provides a chain cleaning apparatus which sets the time duration based on the length of the chain and degree of fouling of the chain. The chain cleaning apparatus can also control the solenoid valve and the oil pump to provide optimized cleaning of the chain with minimal human intervention, thereby, reducing chances of injuries. Further, the chain cleaning apparatus can detect presence or absence of the chain on the sprocket assembly. The chain cleaning apparatus can also provide alerts in case of errors, such as low-levels in the oil heater tank.
[00023] The above and other features, aspects, and advantages of the subject matter will be better explained with regard to the following description and accompanying figures. It should be noted that the description and figures merely illustrate the principles of the present subject matter along with examples described herein and, should not be construed as a limitation to the present subject matter. It is thus understood that various arrangements may be devised that, although not explicitly described or shown herein, embody the principles of the present disclosure. Moreover, all statements herein reciting principles, aspects, and examples thereof, are intended to encompass equivalents thereof. Further, for the sake of simplicity, and

without limitation, the same numbers are used throughout the drawings to reference like features and components.
[00024] The present subject matter a chain cleaning apparatus. Fig. 1 depicts a block diagram of a chain cleaning apparatus 100, in accordance with an implementation of the present subject matter. The chain cleaning apparatus 100 comprises a sprocket assembly 102 for engaging with a chain for cleaning the chain. The sprocket assembly 102 can comprise a primary sprocket and at least one secondary sprocket mounted on a frame. The chain cleaning apparatus 100 can include a plurality of secondary sprockets. The primary sprocket can be coupled axially to a shaft of a motor. Actuation of the motor causes rotation of the primary sprocket.
[00025] The chain to be cleaned can pass over the primary sprocket and the at least one secondary sprocket. Rotation of the primary sprocket can cause rotation of the at least one secondary sprocket and movement of the chain. The sprocket assembly 102 is explained later with reference to Fig. 2.
[00026] The chain cleaning apparatus 100 can also comprise an adjustable arm 104 mounted on the frame between the primary sprocket and the at least one secondary sprocket. The chain can pass over the adjustable arm 104 in between the primary sprocket and the secondary sprocket of the sprocket assembly 102. An angular position of the adjustable arm 104 in the chain cleaning apparatus 100 can be varied based on a length of the chain.
[00027] The adjustable arm 104 may comprise a first pulley, a second pulley, and a connecting arm provided between the first pulley and the second pulley as will be explained later with reference to Fig. 2. A rotary sensor 106 can be coupled to the adjustable arm 104. The rotary sensor 106 can provide a position signal indicative of the angular position of the adjustable arm 104.
[00028] A control unit 108 of the chain cleaning apparatus 100 can receive the position signal. Based on the position signal, the control unit 108 can determine a time duration for cleaning of the chain. In one example, the control unit 108 can

determine the time duration for cleaning the chain based on the position signal and a degree of fouling. In said example, the control unit 107 can receive a user input corresponding to the degree of fouling on the chain. Based on the position signal and the degree of fouling, the control unit 108 can determine the time duration and provide an actuation to the motor to cause rotation of the primary sprocket for the determined time duration. The chain cleaning apparatus 100 can comprise an input unit 109 to receive the user inputs corresponding to the degree of fouling on the chain. The input unit 109 can include, for example, keypad, touch pads, and the like. [00029] As will be understood, the control unit 108 may include at least one processor, memory, and various interfaces. The processor may be implemented as one or more microprocessors, microcomputers, microcontrollers, digital signal processors, central processing units, state machines, logic circuitries, and/or any devices that manipulate signals based on operational instructions. Among other capabilities, the processor fetches and executes computer-readable instructions stored in the memory. The processor may be implemented through the use of dedicated hardware as well as hardware capable of executing computer readable instructions. [00030] In an example, the chain cleaning apparatus 100 can also comprise an air supply unit 110. The air supply unit 110 can be mounted on the frame and be coupled to the sprocket assembly 102 and can supply pressurized air over the chain during the rotation of the chain for the determined time duration to clean the chain. In one example, the air supply unit 110 can comprise a compressor, a solenoid valve, and an air spray nozzle. The compressor can provide pressurized air for cleaning the chain. The solenoid valve can help regulate supply of pressurized air by the air supply unit 110. The control unit 108 can actuate the solenoid valve for the determined time duration for regulation of supply of pressurized air. An air spray nozzle, fluidly coupled to the solenoid valve, can spray the pressurized air on the chain. Various components of the air supply unit 110 is explained later with reference to Fig. 2.

[00031] In addition to cleaning the chain with the pressurized air, to clean the chain with oil, the chain cleaning apparatus 100 can comprise an oil supply unit 112. In one example, the oil supply unit 112 can comprise an oil reservoir, an oil pump, and an oil spray nozzle. The oil reservoir can store the oil. The oil pump can be provided in the oil reservoir to pump the oil from the oil reservoir. The oil spray nozzle can be fluidly coupled to the oil pump to receive the pressurized oil from the oil reservoir. The oil spray nozzle can spray the pressurized oil on the chain. The control unit 108 can actuate the oil pump for the determined time duration to spray the oil via the oil spray nozzle. Various components of the oil supply unit 112 is explained later with reference to Fig(s). 2(a) and 2(b).
[00032] In one example, in addition to the oil supply unit 112, the chain cleaning apparatus 100 can comprise a grease unit 114. The grease unit 114 can comprise an oil heater tank, a grease tank, a heater and a temperature sensor coupled in the oil heater tank, and a level sensor. The grease tank, which stores grease for lubrication, can be provided within the oil heater tank. The oil heater tank can store oil to be heated, hereinafter referred to as heating oil. The heater coupled in the oil heater tank can heat the heating oil, and thereby, the grease stored in the grease tank, to a predetermined temperature. The temperature sensor can provide a temperature signal indicative of a measured temperature of the heating oil in the oil heater tank. The level sensor can provide a level signal indicative of a level of heating oil in the oil heater tank.
[00033] The control unit 108 can receive the temperature signal and the level signal from the temperature sensor and level sensor, respectively. Based on the temperature signal, the control unit 108 can turn on the heater to increase a temperature of the heating oil in the oil heater tank when the measured temperature is less than the predetermined temperature. The control unit 108 can turn off the heater to when the measured temperature is more than the predetermined temperature. Based on the level signal, the control unit 108 can provide a low-level error output when the level of

heating oil in the oil heater tank is less than a threshold level. The grease unit 114 is explained with reference to Fig(s). 2(a) and 2(b) and, in particular with reference to Fig. 2(c). A display unit 116 can display the low-level error output.
[00034] In one example, the display unit 116 can also display a proximity error output corresponding to absence of the chain on the secondary sprocket. To determine the proximity error output, the chain cleaning apparatus 100 can comprise a proximity sensor 118 adjacent to the secondary sprocket. The control unit 108 can receive a proximity signal indicative of one of: a presence of the chain and an absence of the chain. Based on the proximity signal, the control unit 108 can provide a proximity error output which can be displayed by the display unit 116. The proximity error output during the cleaning process may be indicative of disengagement of the chain from the sprocket assembly 102.
[00035] The chain cleaning apparatus 100 of the present subject matter, therefore, allows for setting the time duration based on the length of the chain and degree of fouling of the chain. The chain cleaning apparatus can also control the solenoid valve and the oil pump to provide optimized cleaning of the chain. The chain cleaning apparatus 100 can detect presence or absence of the chain on the sprocket assembly 102. The chain cleaning apparatus 100 can also provide alerts in case of errors, such as low-levels in the oil heater tank, disengagement of the chain from the secondary sprocket, and the like.
[00036] Fig. 2(a) depicts schematics of internal components of the chain cleaning apparatus 100, in accordance with an implementation of the present subject matter. Fig. 2(b) depicts a backside view of the chain cleaning apparatus, in accordance with an implementation of the present subject matter. The sprocket assembly 102 can be mounted on a frame 202. As explained previously, the sprocket assembly 102 can comprise a primary sprocket 204a and at least one secondary sprocket 204b. A chain 206 can pass over the primary sprocket 204a and the at least one secondary sprocket 204b. The chain cleaning apparatus 100 can also comprise a plurality of other

secondary sprockets to pass the chain from the at least one secondary sprocket 204b to the primary sprocket 204a. Fig. 2 depicts two other secondary sprockets 204c, 204d. However, it is to be understood that any number of other secondary sprockets may be provided on frame 202 to pass the chain from the at least one secondary sprocket 204b to the primary sprocket 204a. The primary sprocket 204a can be coupled axially to a shaft 208 of a motor 209 (refer Fig. 2(b)). Actuation of the motor 209 causes rotation of the primary sprocket 204a which causes rotation of the at least one secondary sprocket 204b and movement of the chain 206.
[00037] The chain 206 can pass over the adjustable arm 104 mounted in between the primary sprocket 204a and the at least one secondary sprocket 204b. The angular position of the adjustable arm 104 can be varied based on the length of the chain 206. The adjustable arm 104 can comprise a first pulley 210a at one end of the adjustable arm 104 and a second pulley 210b at the other end of the adjustable arm 104. The first pulley 210a can be pivotably coupled to the frame 202 to change the angular position of the adjustable arm 104. The rotary sensor 106 can be coupled to the first pulley 210a to provide the position signal indicative of the angular position of the adjustable arm 104.
[00038] The second pulley 210b is free to move based on pivoting of the first pulley 210a. A connecting arm 210c is provided between the first pulley 210a and the second pulley 210b. The connecting arm 210c can comprise a lock structure to lock the adjustable arm 104 at one of a plurality of positions on pivoting of the first pulley 210a. A plurality of stoppers 212 can be disposed on the frame 202 to engage with the lock structure of the connecting arm 210c. The plurality of stoppers 212 can correspond to the plurality positions of the adjustable arm 104. As explained previously, the control unit 108 can receive the position signal indicative of the angular position of the adjustable arm 104 and determine the time duration of cleaning.

[00039] The control unit 108 can also receive a user input corresponding to the degree of fouling on the chain from the input unit 109. The degree of fouling may be categorized as: low foul, medium foul, and high foul. Based on the position signal and the degree of fouling, the control unit 108 can determine the time duration and provide an actuation to the motor 209 to cause rotation of the primary sprocket 204a for the determined time duration.
[00040] As can be seen from Fig. 2, a path of the chain 206 can be from the primary sprocket 204a to the at least one secondary sprocket 204b with the adjustable arm 104 mounted between the primary sprocket 204a and the at least one secondary sprocket 204b and the chain 206 passing over the adjustable arm 104. In one example, a proximity sensor 214 can be provided adjacent to the chain 206. The proximity sensor 214 can provide a proximity signal indicative of a presence or absence of the chain 206. The absence of the chain 206 during the cleaning process may be indicative of disengagement of the chain 206 from the sprocket assembly 102. The control unit 108 may not actuate or may stop providing actuation signal to the motor 209 in the absence of the chain 206 based on the proximity signal received from the proximity sensor 214. The control unit 108 can also provide a proximity error output indicating an absence of the chain 206. The proximity error output may be displayed by the display unit 116. The proximity error output may also be indicated to a cleaning personnel by alerts using the buzzer 117a and the warning lamp 117b. In one example, the alerts may be provided only during disengagement of the chain 206 from the sprocket assembly 102 during cleaning.
[00041] For cleaning, the chain cleaning apparatus 100 can comprise brushes 216a, 216b, hereinafter referred to as brush 216. The brush 216 can be provided on opposite sides of the chain path to remove fouling, such as deposits, from the chain 206. Fig. 2 depicts two brushes 216a, 216b. However, it is to be understood that any number of brushes may be provided in the chain path.

[00042] In addition to cleaning by the brush 216, the air supply unit 110 can provide pressurized air to clean the chain 206. The air supply unit 110 can comprise a compressor (not shown). The compressor can supply the pressurized air. A solenoid valve 218a (refer Fig. 2(b)) can help in regulating the pressurized air supplied. An air spray nozzle 218b can be used to spray the pressurized air on the chain 206. The solenoid valve 218a can be actuated by the control unit 108 to regulate the supply of pressurized air to the chain 206. In one example, the chain cleaning apparatus 100 can also comprise an exhaust pipe, explained later with reference to Fig. 3, for exhaust of the sprayed pressurized air.
[00043] The oil supply unit 112 can be coupled downstream of the brush 216 to provide oil to the chain 206. The oil supply unit 112 can comprise an oil reservoir 220a to store oil. An oil pump 220b can be provided in the oil reservoir 220a to pump the stored oil from the oil reservoir 220a. An oil spray nozzle 220c can be fluidly coupled to the oil pump 220b to receive the pressurized oil from the oil reservoir 220a. The oil spray nozzle 220c can spray the pressurized oil on the chain 206. The oil pump 220b can be actuated by the control unit 108 to regulate the supply of pressurized air to the chain 206.
[00044] In one example, an oil level sensor 220d (refer Fig. 2(b)) can be coupled to the oil reservoir 220a. The oil level sensor 220d can provide an oil level signal indicative of a level of oil in the oil reservoir 220a to the control unit 108. Based on the level signal, the control unit 108 can provide a low-level oil error output when the level of oil in the oil reservoir 220a is less than a threshold level. The chain cleaning apparatus 100 can comprise a tray oil filter (not shown) which can filter the sprayed oil to recirculate the oil back to the oil reservoir 220a.
[00045] To manually lubricate the chain 206 with grease, the grease unit 114 can be coupled to the chain cleaning apparatus 100. The grease unit 114, as explained previously, can comprise an oil heater tank 221, grease tank 222a, a heater 222b and a temperature sensor 222c coupled in the oil heater tank 221, and a level sensor 222d.

The oil heater tank 221 can store the heating oil. The grease tank 222a which stores the grease can be provided in the oil heater tank 221. For the sake of clarity and ease in understanding, Fig. 2(a) depicts only the oil heater tank 221 comprising the heater 222b and the level sensor 222d while Fig. 2(b) depicts the grease tank 222a provided in the oil heater tank 221.
[00046] The heater 222b and the temperature sensor 222c can be coupled in the oil heater tank 221. The heater 222b coupled in the oil heater tank 221 can heat the heating oil and thus the grease in the grease tank 222a to a predetermined temperature. The temperature sensor 222c can provide a temperature signal indicative of a measured temperature of the heating oil in the oil heater tank 221. The level sensor 222d can provide a level signal indicative of a level of heating oil in the oil heater tank 221.
[00047] The control unit 108 can receive the temperature signal and the level signal from the temperature sensor 222c and level sensor 222d, respectively. Based on the temperature signal, the control unit 108 can turn on the heater 222b to increase a temperature of the heating oil when the measured temperature is less than the predetermined temperature. The control unit 108 can turn off the heater 222b when the measured temperature is more than the predetermined temperature. Based on the level signal, the control unit 108 can provide a low-level error output when the level of heating oil in the oil heater tank 221 is less than a threshold level. Further, when the level of heating oil in the oil heater tank 221 is less than the threshold level, the control unit 108 can also turn off the heater 222b. The display unit 116 can display the low-level error output. In one example, the low-level error output may be provided to the cleaning personnel by warning lamps 222e.
[00048] In one example, the grease tank 222a may have a hanger 222h provided on an external surface to hold the multiple chains prior to and after dipping in the grease stored in the grease tank 222a. The grease tank 222a can comprise a grease tank door 222f, for example, fitted with a magnetic cap 222g to close the grease tank 222a. The

oil heater tank 221 can comprise a first normally open (NO) switch 223a associated with a door of the oil heater tank 221. The first NO switch 223a can indicate one of: an open state and a closed state of the door of the oil heater tank 221. The control unit 108 may not actuate the heater 222b when the first NO switch 223a indicates that the grease tank door 222f is open.
[00049] The sprocket assembly 102, the adjustable arm 104, and the rotary sensor 106 can be enclosed within a cabinet. A door of the cabinet can be associated with a second NO switch 223b. The second NO switch 223b can indicate one of: an open state and a closed state of the door of the cabinet. Similar to grease tank 222a, the control unit 108 may not actuate the motor 209 when the second NO switch 223b indicates the open state of the door thereby adding a safety layer to safeguard the cleaning personnel working at the chain cleaning machine.
[00050] In one example, the chain cleaning apparatus 100 can also comprise a Local Area Network (LAN) adapter 224 (refer Fig. 2(b)). The LAN adapter 224 can be used to communicatively couple the chain cleaning apparatus 100 to a server. The control unit 108 can communicate details, such as identification of cleaning personnel, customer details, and the like to the server over the LAN for storage in the server. By communicatively coupling the chain cleaning apparatus 100, usage of the chain cleaning apparatus 100 can be tracked remotely. In one example, record of vehicles whose chains have been cleaned using the chain cleaning apparatus 100 can also be stored in the server.
[00051] Fig. 2(c) depicts a top perspective view of the grease unit 114, in accordance with an implementation of the present subject matter. The grease tank 222a can be coupled in the oil heater tank 221 such that the grease tank 222a is in contact with the heating oil. The grease tank 222a may be smaller and thus may occupy only a partial space in the oil heater tank 221. The oil heater tank 221, therefore, can include a clearance or vacant space. The temperature sensor 222c, the level sensor 222d, and

the heater 222b can be coupled in the oil heater tank 221 at the clearance or vacant
space.
[00052] Fig. 3 depicts a side external view of the chain cleaning apparatus 100, in
accordance with an implementation of the present subject matter. The chain cleaning
apparatus 100 as shown in Fig. 3 depicts an exhaust pipe 302 for exhaust of air from a
cabinet which encloses the sprocket assembly 102 and the adjustable arm 104. The
exhaust pipe 302 can be associated with a valve, for example, a pneumatic valve
which opens when a pressure inside the cabinet is above a threshold. While the
exhaust pipe 302 is provided on a back side of the chain cleaning apparatus 100, it is
to be understood that other combinations are possible.
[00053] Fig. 4 depicts an isometric external view of the chain cleaning apparatus 100,
in accordance with an implementation of the present subject matter. A cabinet 401
enclosing the sprocket assembly 102 and the adjustable arm 104 (not shown in Fig. 4)
can comprise a door 402. The door 402 can comprise a glass window 404 to visualize
the cleaning process of the chain.
[00054] The cabinet 304 may be mounted on a stand 406. The stand 406 may
comprise storage components, such as pockets 408, rack 410, and shelf 412. The
storage components can be used for holding and storing, for example, oil, grease,
tools, and the like.
[00055] In operation, with reference to Fig(s). 1, 2(a), 2(b), 3, and 4, the chain 206
which is to be cleaned can be mounted on the sprocket assembly 102. The chain 206
can pass from the primary sprocket 204a over the at least one secondary sprocket
204b. The chain 206 is passed over the adjustable arm 104. The angular position of
the adjustable arm 104 is varied to ensure that the chain 206 does not have any slack
while moving on the sprocket assembly 102.
[00056] The chain cleaning apparatus 100 is then turned on, for example, by
supplying power. The control unit 108 can receive position signal from the rotary
sensor 106. The control unit 108 can receive user inputs regarding the degree of

fouling, for example, low foul, medium foul, and high foul. Based on the position signal and the user inputs, the control unit 108 can determine the time period of cleaning.
[00057] The control unit 108 can then actuate the motor 209, the solenoid valve 218a, the oil pump 220b to rotate the sprocket assembly 102, provide pressurized air, and oil to the chain 206. Before actuating the motor 209 and during the cleaning process, the control unit 108 can receive the proximity signal from the proximity sensor 214 to ensure the presence of the chain 206 on the sprocket assembly 102. Therefore, based on the proximity signal, the control unit 108 can detect disengagement of the chain 206 from the sprocket assembly 102. On disengagement, the control unit 108 can provide the proximity error output which can then be displayed by the display unit 116 or provided as alerts, for example, by using buzzers 117a or warning lamps 117b. [00058] The control unit 108 can also receive temperature signal from temperature sensor 222c corresponding to the measured temperature of the heating oil in the oil heater tank 221. Based on the temperature signal, the control unit 108 can switch on or switch off the heater 222b. Further, the control unit 108 can also receive the level signal from the oil level sensor 220d and level sensor 222d and provides error outputs to the cleaning personnel, for example, by display on the display unit 116 or by using buzzers 117a or warning lamps 117b.
[00059] The chain cleaning apparatus 100 of the present subject matter sets the time period for chain cleaning based on the length of the chain and degree of fouling. The chain cleaning apparatus can also control the motor 209, the solenoid valve 218a, the oil pump 220b, and the heater 222b to provide optimized cleaning of the chain with minimal human intervention, thereby, reducing chances of injuries. The chain cleaning apparatus 100 can detect presence or absence of the chain on the sprocket assembly 102 and, thereby, disengagement of the chain 206. The chain cleaning apparatus 100 can also provide alerts in case of errors, such as low-levels in the oil heater tank.

[00060] Although the subject matter has been described in considerable detail with reference to certain examples and implementations thereof, other implementations are possible. As such, the scope of the present subject matter should not be limited to the description of the preferred examples and implementations contained therein.

I/We Claim:
1. A chain cleaning apparatus (100) comprising:
a sprocket assembly (102) mounted on a frame (202) for engaging with a chain (206) for cleaning the chain (206), the sprocket assembly (102) comprising:
a primary sprocket (204a) coupled axially to a shaft (208) of a
motor (209), wherein actuation of the motor (209) causes rotation of
the primary sprocket (204a); and
at least one secondary sprocket (204b), wherein the chain (206)
is to pass over the at least one secondary sprocket (204b), wherein
rotation of the primary sprocket (204a) causes rotation of the at least
one secondary sprocket (204b) and movement of the chain (206);
an adjustable arm (104) mounted on the frame (202) between the primary sprocket (204a) and the at least one secondary sprocket (204b), wherein the chain (206) passes over the adjustable arm (104), wherein an angular position of the adjustable arm (104) in the chain cleaning apparatus (100) is variable based on a length of the chain (206);
a rotary sensor (106) coupled to the adjustable arm (104) to provide a position signal indicative of the angular position of the adjustable arm (104);
a control unit (108) to receive the position signal and determine a time duration for cleaning of the chain (206) based on the position signal; and
an air supply unit (110) coupled to the frame (202) to supply pressurized air over the chain (206) during rotation of the chain (206) for the determined time duration to clean the chain (206).
2. The chain cleaning apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control
unit (108) is to:

receive a user input corresponding to a degree of fouling on the chain (206);
compute, based on the position signal and the degree of fouling, the time duration for cleaning the chain (206); and
provide an actuation signal to the motor (209) to cause rotation of the primary sprocket (204a) for the determined time duration.
3. The chain cleaning apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the chain cleaning apparatus (100) comprises an input unit (109) to receive user inputs corresponding to the degree of fouling on the chain (206).
4. The chain cleaning apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the air supply unit (110) comprises:
a compressor to provide pressurized air for cleaning the chain (206);
a solenoid valve (218a) to regulate pressurized air supplied by the air supply unit (110); and
an air spray nozzle (218b) to spray the pressurized air on the chain (206), wherein the control unit (108) actuates the solenoid valve (218a) for the determined time duration.
5. The chain cleaning apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1 comprising an oil
supply unit (112) coupled to the frame (202) to supply pressurized oil to the chain
(206) during rotation of the chain (206), wherein the oil supply unit (112) comprises:
an oil reservoir (220a) to store oil;
an oil pump (220b) provided in the oil reservoir (220a) to pump the oil from the oil reservoir (220a); and
an oil spray nozzle (220c) fluidly coupled to the oil pump (220b) to receive the pressurized oil from the oil reservoir (220a) and to spray the

pressurized oil on the chain (206), wherein the control unit (108) actuates the oil pump (220b) for the determined time duration.
6. The chain cleaning apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, comprising a
proximity sensor (118) adjacent to the chain (206), wherein the control unit (108) is
to:
receive a proximity signal from the proximity sensor (118), wherein the proximity signal is indicative of one of: a presence of the chain and an absence of the chain (206) from the sprocket assembly (102); and
provide, based on the proximity signal indicating an absence of the chain (206), a proximity error output.
7. The chain cleaning apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, comprising a grease
unit (114), the grease unit (114) comprising:
a grease tank (222a) to store grease;
an oil heater tank (221) to store heating oil, wherein the grease tank (222a) is placed in the oil heater tank (221);
a heater (222b) coupled in the oil heater tank (221) to heat the heating oil and thereby grease to a predetermined temperature;
a temperature sensor (222c) coupled in the oil heater tank (221) to provide a temperature signal indicative of a measured temperature of the heating oil; and
a level sensor (222d) coupled in the oil heater tank (221) to provide a level signal indicative of a level of heating oil in the oil heater tank (221).
8. The chain cleaning apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 7, wherein the control
unit (108) is to:
receive the temperature signal and the level signal;

turn on the heater (222b) to increase a temperature of the heating oil when the measured temperature is less than a predetermined temperature;
turn off the heater (222b) when the measured temperature is more than the predetermined temperature; and
provide a low-level error output when the level of the heating oil in the oil heater tank (221) is less than a threshold level and to turn off the heater (222b).
9. The chain cleaning apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 6 or 8 comprising a display unit (116) to display the error output.
10. The chain cleaning apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 7, wherein the oil heater tank (221) comprises a first normally open (NO) switch (223a) to indicate one of: an open state and a closed state of a door of the oil heater tank (221).
11. The chain cleaning apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1 comprising brushes (216) provided on opposite sides of a path of the chain (206) to remove fouling from the chain.
12. The chain cleaning apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the chain cleaning apparatus (100) comprises a cabinet (401) enclosing the sprocket assembly (102), the adjustable arm (104), and the rotary sensor (106) and wherein the cabinet (401) comprises a second normally open (NO) switch (223b) to indicate one of: an open state and a closed state of a door (402) of the cabinet (401).
13. The chain cleaning apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1 comprising a plurality of secondary sprockets (204c, 204d) to pass the chain (206) from the at least one secondary sprocket (204b) to the primary sprocket (204a).

14. The chain cleaning apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the
adjustable arm (104) comprises:
a first pulley (210a) at one end of the adjustable arm (104), the first pulley (210a) being pivotably coupled to the frame (202) to change the angular position of the adjustable arm (104), wherein the rotary sensor (106) is coupled to the first pulley (210a);
a second pulley (210b) at other end of the adjustable arm (104), wherein the second pulley (210b) is free to move based on pivoting of the first pulley (210a); and
a connecting arm (210c) provided between the first pulley (210a) and the second pulley (210b), wherein the connecting arm (210c) comprises a lock structure to lock the adjustable arm (104) at one of a plurality of positions, on pivoting of the first pulley (210a), based on a length of the chain (206).
15. The chain cleaning apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 14, comprising a
plurality of stoppers (212) disposed on the frame (202) to engage with the lock
structure of the connecting arm (210c), the plurality of stoppers (212) corresponding
to the plurality of positions.