Systems and methods for producing and dispensing automobile appearance care products

• US 20030201282A1
• Filed: 12/17/2002
• Published: 10/30/2003
• Est. Priority Date: 12/19/2001
• Status: Abandoned Application

• Current Assignee: Auto Wax Company Incorporated (Illinois Tool Works Inc.)
• Original Assignee: Auto Wax Company Incorporated (Illinois Tool Works Inc.)
• Inventors: Floyd, Timothy H., Miller, Paul David III
• Application Number:
  US10/321,779
• Publication Number:
  US 20030201282A1
• Time in Patent Office: Days
• US Class Current: 222/144.5
• CPC Class Codes: B01F 25/31 in conduits or tubes through which the main component flows
• CPC Class Codes: B01F 33/84 Mixing plants with mixing receptacles receiving material dispensed from several component receptacles, e.g. paint tins
• CPC Class Codes: B01F 33/846 using stored recipes for determining the composition of the mixture to be produced, i.e. for determining the amounts of the basic components to be dispensed from the component receptacles
• CPC Class Codes: B01F 35/883 using flow rate controls for feeding the substances
• CPC Class Codes: B67D 7/741 mechanically operated

Abstract

Embodiments described herein include systems and methods for dispensing multiple automotive appearance care products. Base fluids or raw materials may be placed in containers. The base fluids may be combined with a carrier fluid to produce a product fluid. Product fluids may be stored in containers prior to use. Product fluids may be dispensed as concentrated fluids and/or fluids ready for use. Product fluids may be used as products for automotive appearance care. Certain embodiments may also include means for automatically controlling product fluid dispensing and usage. Certain embodiments include methods for monitoring usage and assessing or determining costs to be charged a user of the dispensing system.

Claims

1. A system configured to dispense a plurality of automotive appearance care products, comprising:

a plurality of base fluids disposed in containers;

a first conduit configured to transport a carrier fluid, wherein the first conduit is coupled to a carrier fluid supply; and

a plurality of supply conduits coupled to the first conduit, each supply conduit, comprising;

at least one injector, wherein the injector is further coupled to at least one base fluid container with a second conduit, and wherein the at least one injector is configured to inject the base fluid into the carrier fluid to form a product fluid during use.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of base fluid containers comprises a material substantially chemically inert with respect to the base fluid.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of base fluid containers comprises a plurality of polymeric material containers.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein the base fluid comprises cleaning agent.

5. The system of claim 1,,wherein the base fluid comprises surfactant.

6. The system of claim 1, wherein the base fluid comprises nonionic surfactant.

7. The system of claim 1, wherein the base fluid comprises nonylphenol ethoxylate.

8. The system of claim 1, wherein the base fluid comprises octyl phenol ethoxylate.

9. The system of claim 1, wherein the base fluid comprises alkanolamide compound.

10. The system of claim 1, wherein the base fluid comprises cationic surfactant.

11. The system of claim 1, wherein the base fluid comprises quaternary ammonium compound.

12. The system of claim 1, wherein the base fluid comprises silicone surfactant.

13. The system of claim 1, wherein the base fluid comprises organosilicone surfactant.

14. The system of claim 1, wherein the base fluid comprises wetting agent.

15. The system of claim 1, wherein the base fluid comprises sodium lauryl sulfate.

16. The system of claim 1, wherein the base fluid comprises foaming agent.

17. The system of claim 1, wherein the base fluid comprises glass cleaner.

18. The system of claim 1, wherein the base fluid comprises emulsifier.

19. The system of claim 1, wherein the base fluid comprises ether compound.

20. The system of claim 1, wherein the base fluid comprises glycerol.

21. The system of claim 1, wherein the base fluid comprises glycol ether.

22. The system of claim 1, wherein the base fluid comprises 2-butoxyethanol.

23. The system of claim 1, wherein the base fluid comprises propylene glycol monobutyl ether.

24. The system of claim 1, wherein the base fluid comprises dipropylene glycol monobutyl ether.

25. The system of claim 1, wherein the base fluid comprises silicone fluid.

26. The system of claim 1, wherein the base fluid comprises acid.

27. The system of claim 1, wherein the base fluid comprises fragrance.

28. The system of claim 1, wherein the base fluid comprises dye.

29. The system of claim 1, wherein the base fluid comprises a component of an automotive appearance care product.

30. The system of claim 1, wherein the carrier fluid supply is disposed external to the system.

31. The system of claim 1, wherein the carrier fluid comprises water.

32. The system of claim 1, further comprising a pump coupled to the carrier fluid supply and the first conduit, wherein the pump is configured to increase a pressure of the carrier fluid during use.

33. The system of claim 1, wherein the first conduit comprises copper tubing.

34. The system of claim 1, further comprising at least one valve coupled to the first conduit, wherein at least the one valve is configured to allow a flow of the carrier fluid from the first conduit to one of the plurality of supply conduits during use.

35. The system of claim 34, wherein at least the one valve coupled to the first conduit comprises a normally-closed valve.

36. The system of claim 34, wherein at least the one valve coupled to the first conduit comprises a solenoid valve.

37. The system of claim 34, wherein at least the one valve coupled to the first conduit comprises a solenoid valve, and wherein the solenoid valve is configured to produce a predetermined flow rate of carrier fluid during use.

38. The system of claim 34, wherein at least the one valve coupled to the first conduit comprises a solenoid valve, and wherein the solenoid valve is operated electrically.

39. The system of claim 34, wherein at least the one valve coupled to the first conduit comprises a solenoid valve, and wherein the solenoid valve is operated pneumatically.

40. The system of claim 34, wherein at least the one valve coupled to the first conduit comprises a solenoid valve, and wherein operation of the solenoid valve is controlled by a switch during use.

41. The system of claim 34, wherein at least the one valve coupled to the first conduit comprises a solenoid valve, wherein operation of the solenoid valve is controlled by a switch, and wherein the switch is operated by a user of the system during use.

42. The system of claim 34, wherein at least the one valve coupled to the first conduit comprises a solenoid valve, wherein operation of the solenoid valve is controlled by a switch, and wherein the switch is controlled by a computer during use.

43. The system of claim 34, wherein at least the one valve coupled to the first conduit comprises a solenoid valve, wherein operation of the solenoid valve is controlled by a switch, and wherein an amount of product fluid dispensed is controlled by the operation of the switch during use.

44. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one injector comprises a single-stage injector.

45. The system of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of supply conduits comprises at least one material substantially chemically inert with respect to the base fluid.

46. The system of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of supply conduits comprises polyvinyl chloride (PVC).

47. The system of claim 1, wherein each of the second conduits comprises material substantially chemically inert with respect to the base fluid.

48. The system of claim 1, further comprising a metering device coupled to each of the plurality of supply conduits, wherein the metering device is configured to determine an amount of product fluid dispensed during use.

49. The system of claim 1, further comprising at least one exit valve coupled to each of the plurality of supply conduits, wherein the at least one exit valve is configured to dispense at least one product fluid during use.

50. The system of claim 1, wherein the system is configured to dispense a plurality of product fluids during use.

51. The system of claim 1, wherein the product fluid comprises degreaser.

52. The system of claim 1, wherein the product fluid comprises all-purpose automotive cleaner.

53. The system of claim 1, wherein the product fluid comprises car wash soap.

54. The system of claim 1, wherein the product fluid comprises wheel cleaner.

55. The system of claim 1, wherein the product fluid comprises glass cleaner.

56. The system of claim 1, wherein the product fluid comprises dressing fluid.

57. The system of claim 1, wherein the product fluid comprise automotive appearance care product.

58. The system of claim 1, wherein the product fluid comprises concentrated fluid.

59. The system of claim 1, wherein the product fluid comprises fluid configured to be ready to use.

60. The system of claim 1, wherein the system is configured in a transportable arrangement.

61. A method for dispensing a plurality of automotive appearance care products, comprising:

supplying a carrier fluid to a plurality of supply conduits;

injecting at least one base fluid into the carrier fluid in each of the plurality of supply conduits to form a plurality of product fluids; and

dispensing the plurality of product fluids.

62. The method of claim 61, wherein at least the one base fluid is placed in a container.

63. The method of claim 61, wherein the carrier fluid comprises water.

64. The method of claim 61, further comprising increasing a pressure of the carrier fluid using a pump.

65. The method of claim 61, further comprising controlling a flow rate of the carrier fluid with at least one valve.

66. The method of claim 61, further comprising controlling a flow rate of the carrier fluid with at least one valve, wherein the flow rate is predetermined.

67. The method of claim 61, further comprising controlling a flow of the carrier fluid with at least one valve, wherein the valve is controlled by a switch.

68. The method of claim 61, further comprising controlling a flow of the carrier fluid with at least one valve, wherein the valve is controlled by a switch, and wherein the switch is operated by a user of a system.

69. The method of claim 61, further comprising controlling a flow of the carrier fluid with at least one valve, wherein the valve is controlled by a switch, and wherein the switch is operated by a computer.

70. The method of claim 61, further comprising controlling a flow of the carrier fluid with at least one valve, wherein the valve is controlled by a switch, and wherein an amount of each of the plurality of product fluids dispensed is controlled by operation of the switch.

71. The method of claim 61, further comprising dispensing each of the plurality of product fluids through at least one exit valve.

72. The method of claim 61, further comprising determining a volume of each of the plurality of product fluids dispensed.

73. The method of claim 61, further comprising determining a volume of each of the plurality of product fluids dispensed, wherein the volume is determined using a metering device.

74. The method of claim 61, further comprising dispensing the plurality of product fluids in a transportable system.

75. A system configured to dispense an automotive appearance care product, comprising:

a surfactant disposed in a first container;

a cleaning agent disposed in a second container;

a first conduit configured to transport a carrier fluid, wherein the first conduit is coupled to a carrier fluid supply; and

a supply conduit coupled to the first conduit, the supply conduit, comprising;

a first injector, wherein the first injector is further coupled to the first container with a second conduit, and wherein the first injector is configured to inject the surfactant into the carrier fluid to form a product fluid during use;

a second injector, wherein the second injector is further coupled to the second container with a third conduit, and wherein the second injector is configured to inject the cleaning agent into the carrier fluid to form a product fluid during use.

76. The system of claim 75, wherein the surfactant comprises nonionic surfactant.

77. The system of claim 75, wherein the surfactant comprises cationic surfactant.

78. The system of claim 75, wherein the surfactant comprises silicone surfactant.

79. The system of claim 75, wherein the surfactant comprises organosilicone surfactant.

80. The system of claim 75, wherein the carrier fluid supply is disposed external to the system.

81. The system of claim 79, wherein the carrier fluid comprises water.

82. The system of claim 75, further comprising a pump coupled to the carrier fluid supply and the first conduit, wherein the pump is configured to increase a pressure of the carrier fluid during use.

83. The system of claim 75, wherein the first conduit comprises copper tubing.

84. The system of claim 75, further comprising a valve coupled to the first conduit, wherein the valve is configured to allow a flow of the carrier fluid from the first conduit to the supply conduit during use.

85. The system of claim 84, wherein at least the one valve coupled to the first conduit comprises a solenoid valve.

86. The system of claim 75, further comprising a metering device coupled to the supply conduit, wherein the metering device is configured to determine an amount of product fluid dispensed during use.

87. The system of claim 75, further comprising at least one exit valve coupled to the supply conduit, wherein the at least one exit valve is configured to dispense the product fluid during use.

88. The system of claim 75, wherein the product fluid comprises degreaser.

89. The system of claim 75, wherein the product fluid comprises all purpose cleaner.

90. The system of claim 79, wherein the product fluid comprise automotive appearance care product.

91. A method for dispensing an automotive appearance care product, comprising:

supplying a carrier fluid to a supply conduit;

injecting a surfactant and a cleaning agent into the carrier fluid in the supply conduit to form a product fluid; and

dispensing the product fluid.

92. The method of claim 91, wherein the carrier fluid comprises water.

93. The method of claim 91, further comprising increasing a pressure of the carrier fluid using a pump.

94. The method of claim 91, further comprising controlling a flow rate of the carrier fluid with at least one valve.

95. The method of claim 91, further comprising controlling a flow rate of the carrier fluid with at least one valve, wherein the flow rate is predetermined.

96. The method of claim 91, further comprising controlling a flow of the carrier fluid with at least one valve, wherein the valve is controlled by a switch.

97. The method of claim 91, further comprising controlling a flow of the carrier fluid with at least one valve, wherein the valve is controlled by a switch, and wherein the switch is operated by a user of a system.

98. The method of claim 91, further comprising controlling a flow of the carrier fluid with at least one valve, wherein the valve is controlled by a switch, and wherein the switch is operated by a computer.

99. The method of claim 91, further comprising controlling a flow of the carrier fluid with at least one valve, wherein the valve is controlled by a switch, and wherein an amount of the product fluid dispensed is controlled by operation of the switch.

100. The method of claim 91, further comprising dispensing the product fluid through at least one exit valve.

101. The method of claim 91, further comprising determining a volume of the product fluid dispensed.

102. The method of claim 91, further comprising determining a volume of the product fluid dispensed, wherein the volume is determined using a metering device.

103. The method of claim 91, further comprising dispensing the plurality of product fluids in a transportable system.

104. A system configured to dispense an automotive appearance care product, comprising:

a surfactant disposed in a first container;

a foaming agent disposed in a second container;

a first conduit configured to transport a carrier fluid, wherein the first conduit is coupled to a carrier fluid supply; and

a supply conduit coupled to the first conduit, the supply conduit, comprising;

a first injector, wherein the first injector is further coupled to the first container with a second conduit, and wherein the first injector is configured to inject the surfactant into the carrier fluid to form a product fluid during use;

a second injector, wherein the second injector is further coupled to the second container with a third conduit, and wherein the second injector is configured to inject the foaming agent into the carrier fluid to form a product fluid during use.

105. The system of claim 104, wherein the surfactant comprises nonionic surfactant.

106. The system of claim 104, wherein the surfactant comprises cationic surfactant.

107. The system of claim 104, wherein the surfactant comprises silicone surfactant.

108. The system of claim 104, wherein the surfactant comprises organosilicone surfactant.

109. The system of claim 104, wherein the carrier fluid supply is disposed external to the system.

110. The system of claim 104, wherein the carrier fluid comprises water.

111. The system of claim 104, further comprising a pump coupled to the carrier fluid supply and the first conduit, wherein the pump is configured to increase a pressure of the carrier fluid during use.

112. The system of claim 104, wherein the first conduit comprises copper tubing.

113. The system of claim 104, further comprising a valve coupled to the first conduit, wherein the valve is configured to allow a flow of the carrier fluid from the first conduit to the supply conduit during use.

114. The system of claim 113, wherein at least the one valve coupled to the first conduit comprises a solenoid valve.

115. The system of claim 104, further comprising a metering device coupled to the supply conduit, wherein the metering device is configured to determine an amount of product fluid dispensed during use.

116. The system of claim 104, further comprising at least one exit valve coupled to the supply conduit, wherein the at least one exit valve is configured to dispense the product fluid during use.

117. The system of claim 104, wherein the product fluid comprises car wash soap.

118. The system of claim 104, wherein the product fluid comprise automotive appearance care product.

119. A method for dispensing an automotive appearance care product, comprising:

supplying a carrier fluid to a supply conduit;

injecting a surfactant and a foaming agent into the carrier fluid in the supply conduit to form a product fluid; and

dispensing the product fluid.

120. The method of claim 119, wherein the carrier fluid comprises water.

121. The method of claim 119, further comprising increasing a pressure of the carrier fluid using a pump.

122. The method of claim 119, further comprising controlling a flow rate of the carrier fluid with at least one valve.

123. The method of claim 119, further comprising controlling a flow rate of the carrier fluid with at least one valve, wherein the flow rate is predetermined.

124. The method of claim 119, further comprising controlling a flow of the carrier fluid with at least one valve, wherein the valve is controlled by a switch.

125. The method of claim 119, further comprising controlling a flow of the carrier fluid with at least one valve, wherein the valve is controlled by a switch, and wherein the switch is operated by a user of a system.

126. The method of claim 119, further comprising controlling a flow of the carrier fluid with at least one valve, wherein the valve is controlled by a switch, and wherein the switch is operated by a computer.

127. The method of claim 119, further comprising controlling a flow of the carrier fluid with at least one valve, wherein the valve is controlled by a switch, and wherein an amount of the product fluid dispensed is controlled by operation of the switch.

128. The method of claim 119, further comprising dispensing the product fluid through at least one exit valve.

129. The method of claim 119, further comprising determining a volume of the product fluid dispensed.

130. The method of claim 119, further comprising determining a volume of the product fluid dispensed, wherein the volume is determined using a metering device.

131. The method of claim 119, further comprising dispensing the plurality of product fluids in a transportable system.

132. A system configured to dispense an automotive appearance care product, comprising:

a surfactant disposed in a first container;

a first cleaning agent disposed in a second container;

a second cleaning agent disposed in a third container;

a first conduit configured to transport a carrier fluid, wherein the first conduit is coupled to a carrier fluid supply; and

a supply conduit coupled to the first conduit, the supply conduit, comprising;

a first injector, wherein the first injector is further coupled to the first container with a second conduit, and wherein the first injector is configured to inject the surfactant into the carrier fluid to form a product fluid during use;

a second injector, wherein the second injector is further coupled to the second container with a third conduit, and wherein the second injector is configured to inject the first cleaning agent into the carrier fluid to form a product fluid during use;

a third injector, wherein the third injector is further coupled to the third container with a fourth conduit, and wherein the third injector is configured to inject the second cleaning agent into the carrier fluid to form a product fluid during use.

133. The system of claim 132, wherein the surfactant comprises nonionic surfactant.

134. The system of claim 132, wherein the surfactant comprises cationic surfactant.

135. The system of claim 132, wherein the surfactant comprises silicone surfactant.

136. The system of claim 132, wherein the surfactant comprises organosilicone surfactant.

137. The system of claim 132, wherein the carrier fluid supply is disposed external to the system.

138. The system of claim 132, wherein the carrier fluid comprises water.

139. The system of claim 132, further comprising a pump coupled to the carrier fluid supply and the first conduit, wherein the pump is configured to increase a pressure of the carrier fluid during use.

140. The system of claim 132, wherein the first conduit comprises copper tubing.

141. The system of claim 132, further comprising a valve coupled to the first conduit, wherein the valve is configured to allow a flow of the carrier fluid from the first conduit to the supply conduit during use.

142. The system of claim 141, wherein at least the one valve coupled to the first conduit comprises a solenoid valve.

143. The system of claim 132, further comprising a metering device coupled to the supply conduit, wherein the metering device is configured to determine an amount of product fluid dispensed during use.

144. The system of claim 132, further comprising at least one exit valve coupled to the supply conduit, wherein the at least one exit valve is configured to dispense the product fluid during use.

145. The system of claim 132, wherein the product fluid comprises wheel cleaner.

146. The system of claim 132, wherein the product fluid comprise automotive appearance care product.

147. A method for dispensing an automotive appearance care products, comprising:

supplying a carrier fluid to a supply conduit;

injecting a surfactant, a first cleaning agent, and a second cleaning agent into the carrier fluid in the supply conduit to form a product fluid; and

dispensing the product fluid.

148. The method of claim 147, wherein the carrier fluid comprises water.

149. The method of claim 147, further comprising increasing a pressure of the carrier fluid using a pump.

150. The method of claim 147, further comprising controlling a flow rate of the carrier fluid with at least one valve.

151. The method of claim 147, further comprising controlling a flow rate of the carrier fluid with at least one valve, wherein the flow rate is predetermined.

152. The method of claim 147, further comprising controlling a flow of the carrier fluid with at least one valve, wherein the valve is controlled by a switch.

153. The method of claim 147, further comprising controlling a flow of the carrier fluid with at least one valve, wherein the valve is controlled by a switch, and wherein the switch is operated by a user of a system.

154. The method of claim 147, further comprising controlling a flow of the carrier fluid with at least one valve, wherein the valve is controlled by a switch, and wherein the switch is operated by a computer.

155. The method of claim 147, further comprising controlling a flow of the carrier fluid with at least one valve, wherein the valve is controlled by a switch, and wherein an amount of the product fluid dispensed is controlled by operation of the switch.

156. The method of claim 147, further comprising dispensing the product fluid through at least one exit valve.

157. The method of claim 147, further comprising determining a volume of the product fluid dispensed.

158. The method of claim 147, further comprising determining a volume of the product fluid dispensed, wherein the volume is determined using a metering device.

159. The method of claim 147, further comprising dispensing the plurality of product fluids in a transportable system.

160. An apparatus configured to dispense a plurality of automotive appearance care products, comprising:

a plurality of storage containers comprising one or more raw materials, wherein each storage container comprises one raw material;

a plurality of mixing containers coupled to the plurality of storage containers, wherein the plurality of mixing containers are configured to produce a plurality of mixtures during use, wherein each mixture comprises one raw material and a first carrier fluid;

a plurality of mixing systems coupled to the plurality of mixing containers, wherein the mixing systems are configured to combine the mixtures with a second carrier fluid to produce a plurality of product fluids during use;

a plurality of storage vessels coupled to the plurality of mixing systems, wherein each product fluid is stored in one storage vessel;

a plurality of pumps coupled to the plurality of storage vessels, wherein the plurality of pumps are configured to pump product fluids during use; and

at least one dispensing conduit coupled to the plurality of pumps, wherein the at least one dispensing conduit is configured to dispense product fluids during use.

161. The apparatus of claim 160, wherein each mixing container is coupled to each storage container with a conduit.

162. The apparatus of claim 160, wherein each mixing container is coupled to one storage container.

163. The apparatus of claim 160, wherein each mixing container comprises openings for adding powder to the mixing container during use.

164. The apparatus of claim 160, wherein each mixing system is coupled to one mixing container.

165. The apparatus of claim 160, wherein each storage vessel is coupled to one mixing system.

166. The apparatus of claim 160, wherein each pump is coupled to one storage vessel.

167. The apparatus of claim 160, wherein the mixture further comprises a powder.

168. The apparatus of claim 160, further comprising a second mixing system coupled to each mixing container, wherein the second mixing system is configured to combine the first carrier fluid with raw material during use.

169. The apparatus of claim 160, further comprising a second mixing system coupled to each mixing container, wherein the second mixing system is configured to combine the first carrier fluid with raw material during use, and wherein the second mixing system is configured to provide the combined first carrier fluid and raw material to the mixing container during use.

170. The apparatus of claim 160, further comprising a second mixing system coupled to each mixing container, wherein the second mixing system is configured to combine the first carrier fluid with raw material during use, the apparatus further comprising a solenoid valve coupled to the second mixing system, wherein the solenoid valve is configured to control a flow of the first carrier fluid through the second mixing system during use.

171. The apparatus of claim 170, wherein the solenoid valve comprises a normally closed solenoid valve.

172. The apparatus of claim 160, further comprising a second mixing system coupled to each mixing container, wherein the second mixing system comprises a mixing valve, and wherein the mixing valve is configured to combine the first carrier fluid with the raw material during use.

173. The apparatus of claim 172, wherein the mixing valve comprises a venturi valve.

174. The apparatus of claim 160, further comprising a second mixing system coupled to each mixing container, wherein the second mixing system comprises a float placed in the mixing container, and wherein the float is configured to turn off the mixing system when the float rises above an upper specified height in the mixing container during use.

175. The apparatus of claim 160, further comprising a second mixing system coupled to each mixing container, wherein the second mixing system comprises a float placed in the mixing container, and wherein the float is configured to turn on the mixing system when the float falls below a lower specified height in the mixing container during use.

176. The apparatus of claim 160, further comprising a mixer placed in each mixing container.

177. The apparatus of claim 160, further comprising a mixer placed in each mixing container, wherein the mixer is configured to run for a period of about 30 minutes during use.

178. The apparatus of claim 160, further comprising a second mixing system coupled to each mixing container and a mixer placed in each mixing container, wherein a solenoid valve coupled to the second mixing system and the mixer are configured to turn on at substantially the same time during use.

179. The apparatus of claim 160, further comprising a second mixing system coupled to each mixing container and a mixer placed in each mixing container, wherein a solenoid valve coupled to the second mixing system and the mixer are configured to turn on at substantially the same time during use, and wherein the solenoid valve and the mixer are turned on by a switch.

180. The apparatus of claim 160, further comprising a second mixing system coupled to each mixing container and a mixer placed in each mixing container, wherein a solenoid valve coupled to the second mixing system and the mixer are configured to turn on at substantially the same time during use, and wherein the solenoid valve and the mixer are controlled by a timing device.

181. The apparatus of claim 160, wherein a powder is automatically added to each mixing container during use.

182. The apparatus of claim 160, further comprising a second mixing system coupled to each mixing container and a mixer placed in each mixing container, wherein a solenoid valve coupled to the second mixing system and the mixer are configured to turn on at substantially the, same time during use, and wherein a powder is added to the mixing container at substantially the same time.

183. The apparatus of claim 160, wherein each mixing system is coupled to one mixing container with a conduit.

184. The apparatus of claim 160, wherein each mixing system is configured to provide each product fluid to each storage vessel during use.

185. The apparatus of claim 160, wherein each mixing system comprises a mixing valve, and wherein the mixing valve is configured to combine the second carrier fluid with the mixture during use.

186. The apparatus of claim 185, wherein the mixing valve comprises a venturi valve.

187. The apparatus of claim 160, wherein each mixing system comprises a float placed in each storage vessel, and wherein the float is configured to turn on the mixing system when the float falls below a lower specified height.

188. The apparatus of claim 160, wherein each mixing system comprises a float placed in each storage vessel, and wherein the float is configured to turn off the mixing system when the float rises above an upper specified height.

189. The apparatus of claim 160, wherein the mixing systems are configured to siphon the mixtures from the mixing containers.

190. The apparatus of claim 160, wherein each mixing system is coupled to a second carrier fluid supply with a carrier fluid supply conduit.

191. The apparatus of claim 160, wherein the plurality of mixing systems is coupled to a second carrier fluid supply with a carrier fluid supply conduit, and wherein the carrier fluid supply conduit comprises conduit branches coupled to each of the plurality of mixing systems.

192. The apparatus of claim 160, wherein each pump is coupled to each storage vessel with a conduit.

193. The apparatus of claim 160, wherein each pump is configured to be turned on by a user of the apparatus.

194. The apparatus of claim 160, wherein each pump is configured to be turned on by a switch.

195. The apparatus of claim 160, wherein each pump is configured to substantially constantly operate with a supply of power.

196. The apparatus of claim 160, further comprising an air supply conduit coupled to each pump.

197. The apparatus of claim 160, further comprising an air supply conduit coupled to the plurality of pumps, wherein the air supply conduit comprises branch conduits coupled to each of the plurality of pumps.

198. The apparatus of claim 160, further comprising a fluid applicator coupled to an end of each dispensing conduit.

199. The apparatus of claim 160, further comprising a fluid applicator coupled to an end of each dispensing conduit, wherein the fluid applicator is interlocked to turn on an associated pump of the plurality of pumps when the fluid applicator is used.

200. The apparatus of claim 199, wherein the fluid applicator comprises a sprayer.

201. The apparatus of claim 160, further comprising one or more additional dispensing conduits coupled to a dispensing conduit.

202. The apparatus of claim 160, further comprising a metering device coupled to each dispensing conduit, wherein the metering device is configured to determine an amount of product fluid dispensed during use.

203. The apparatus of claim 160, wherein the plurality of mixing systems, the plurality of storage vessels, and the plurality of pumps are placed in a cabinet.

204. The apparatus of claim 203, wherein the cabinet comprises wheels.

205. The apparatus of claim 203, wherein the cabinet comprises wheels, and wherein the cabinet is transportable.

206. The apparatus of claim 160, wherein the plurality of mixing systems is removably coupled from the plurality of mixing containers.

207. The apparatus of claim 203, wherein the plurality of mixing systems is removably coupled to the plurality of mixing containers such that the cabinet can be replaced or transported.

208. The apparatus of claim 160, wherein the apparatus is enclosed such that a user of the apparatus cannot access an interior of the apparatus.

209. The apparatus of claim 160, wherein the apparatus is enclosed such that a user of the apparatus can only turn on and/or turn off the apparatus.

210. The apparatus of claim 160, wherein the first carrier fluid comprises water.

211. The apparatus of claim 160, wherein the second carrier fluid comprises water.

212. The apparatus of claim 160, wherein at least one product fluid comprises a degreaser.

213. The apparatus of claim 160, wherein at least one product fluid comprises an all-purpose cleaner.

214. The apparatus of claim 160, wherein at least one product fluid comprises a car wash soap.

215. The apparatus of claim 160, wherein at least one product fluid comprises a wheel cleaner.

216. The apparatus of claim 160, wherein at least one product fluid comprises a glass cleaner.

217. The apparatus of claim 160, wherein at least one product fluid comprises a dressing fluid.

218. The apparatus of claim 160, wherein the product fluids comprise automotive appearance care products.

219. The apparatus of claim 160, wherein the apparatus is used at an automobile auction.

220. The apparatus of claim 160, wherein a cost to be charged to a user for using the product fluids is based on a number of automobiles the user treats using the product fluids.

221. A system configured to dispense a plurality of automotive appearance care products, comprising:

a plurality of storage containers comprising one or more raw materials, wherein each storage container comprises one raw material;

a plurality of mixing containers coupled to the plurality of storage containers, wherein the plurality of mixing containers are configured to produce a plurality of mixtures during use, wherein each mixture comprises one raw material and a first carrier fluid;

an apparatus, comprising;

a plurality of mixing systems coupled to the plurality of mixing containers, wherein the mixing systems are configured to combine the mixtures with a second carrier fluid to produce a plurality of product fluids during use;

a plurality of storage vessels coupled to the plurality of mixing systems, wherein each product fluid is stored in one storage vessel;

a plurality of pumps coupled to the plurality of storage vessels, wherein the plurality of pumps are configured to pump product fluids during use; and

at least one dispensing conduit coupled to the plurality of pumps, wherein the at least one dispensing conduit is configured to dispense product fluids during use.

222. The system of claim 221, wherein the product fluids comprise automotive appearance care products.

223. The system of claim 221, wherein the system is used at an automobile auction.

224. The system of claim 221, wherein a cost to be charged to a user for using the product fluids is based on a number of automobiles the user treats using the product fluids.

225. An apparatus configured to dispense a plurality of automotive appearance care products, comprising:

a plurality of storage containers comprising one or more raw materials, wherein each storage container comprises one raw material;

a plurality of mixing containers coupled to the plurality of storage containers, wherein each mixing container is coupled to one storage container, wherein the plurality of mixing containers comprise openings for adding powder to each mixing container during use, and wherein the plurality of mixing containers are configured to produce a plurality of mixtures during use, wherein each mixture comprises one raw material, a powder, and a first carrier fluid;

a plurality of mixing systems coupled to the plurality of mixing containers, wherein each mixing system is coupled to one mixing container, and wherein the mixing systems are configured to combine the mixtures with a second carrier fluid to produce a plurality of product fluids during use;

a plurality of storage vessels coupled to the plurality of mixing systems, wherein each storage vessel is coupled to one mixing system, and wherein each product fluid is stored in one storage vessel;

a plurality of pumps coupled to the plurality of storage vessels, wherein each pump is coupled to one storage vessel, and wherein the plurality of pumps are configured to pump product fluids during use; and

at least one dispensing conduit coupled to the plurality of pumps, wherein the at least one dispensing conduit is configured to dispense product fluids during use.

226. The apparatus of claim 225, wherein the product fluids comprise automotive appearance care products.

227. The apparatus of claim 225, wherein the system is used at an automobile auction.

228. The apparatus of claim 225, wherein a cost to be charged to a user for using the product fluids is based on a number of automobiles the user treats using the product fluids.

229. A system configured to dispense a plurality of automotive appearance care products, comprising:

more than one apparatus configured to dispense a plurality of automotive appearance care products, each apparatus comprising;

a plurality of storage containers comprising one or more raw materials, wherein each storage container comprises one raw material;

a plurality of mixing containers coupled to the plurality of storage containers, wherein the plurality of mixing containers are configured to produce a plurality of mixtures during use, wherein each mixture comprises one raw material and a first carrier fluid;

a plurality of mixing systems coupled to the plurality of mixing containers, wherein the mixing systems are configured to combine the mixtures with a second carrier fluid to produce a plurality of product fluids during use;

a plurality of storage vessels coupled to the plurality of mixing systems, wherein each product fluid is stored in one storage vessel;

a plurality of pumps coupled to the plurality of storage vessels, wherein the plurality of pumps are configured to pump product fluids during use; and

at least one dispensing conduit coupled to the plurality of pumps, wherein the at least one dispensing conduit is configured to dispense product fluids during use.

230. The system of claim 229, wherein the product fluids comprise automotive appearance care products.

231. The system of claim 229, wherein the system is used at an automobile auction.

232. The system of claim 229, wherein a cost to be charged to a user for using the product fluids is based on a number of automobiles the user treats using the product fluids.

233. A method for dispensing a plurality of automotive appearance care products, comprising:

supplying one or more raw materials and a first carrier fluid to a plurality of mixing containers;

producing a plurality of mixtures from the one or more raw materials and the first carrier fluid in the plurality of mixing containers, wherein one mixture is produced in each mixing container;

combining the plurality of mixtures with a second carrier fluid to produce a plurality of product fluids;

providing the plurality of product fluids to a plurality of storage vessels prior to dispensing the plurality of product fluids, wherein one product fluid is provided to each storage vessel;

dispensing the plurality of product fluids for use as automotive appearance care products; and

assessing a cost to be charged to a user for using the automotive appearance care products based on a number of automobiles the user treats using the automotive appearance care products.

234. The method of claim 233, further comprising combining the first carrier fluid with the one or more raw materials prior to supplying the products and the first carrier fluid to the mixing containers.

235. The method of claim 233, further comprising supplying one or more powders to the plurality of mixing containers.

236. The method of claim 233, further comprising supplying one or more powders to the plurality of mixing containers and producing the plurality of mixtures from the one or more raw materials, the one or more powders, and the first carrier fluid.

237. The method of claim 235, further comprising automatically supplying one or more powders to the plurality of mixing containers.

238. The method of claim 233, further comprising supplying the one or more raw materials from a plurality of storage containers.

239. The method of claim 233, further comprising automatically producing the plurality of mixtures.

240. The method of claim 233, further comprising automatically providing the plurality of product fluids to the plurality of storage vessels.

241. The method of claim 233, further comprising storing the plurality of product fluids in the plurality of storage vessels prior to dispensing the plurality of product fluids.

242. The method of claim 233, further comprising dispensing the plurality of product fluids using a pump.

243. The method of claim 233, further comprising metering the dispensing of the plurality of product fluids with one or more metering devices.

244. The method of claim 233, further comprising siphoning the plurality of mixtures to the second carrier fluid with a venturi valve.

245. The method of claim 233, further comprising producing the plurality of product fluids and providing the plurality of product fluids to the plurality of storage vessels using a mixing system.

246. The method of claim 233, further comprising controlling the production of the plurality of mixtures such that a mixture cannot be produced until a mixing container is substantially empty.

247. The method of claim 233, further comprising dispensing the plurality of product fluids through a fluid applicator.

248. The method of claim 233, further comprising dispensing the plurality of product fluids for use at an automobile auction.

249. The method of claim 233, wherein a user is only allowed to control producing of the plurality of mixtures by operating a switch and dispensing of the product fluids by operating a dispensing valve.

250. The method of claim 233, wherein the cost to be charged to the user includes chemical costs.

251. The method of claim 233, wherein the cost to be charged to the user includes material costs.

252. The method of claim 233, wherein the cost to be charged to the user includes freight costs.

253. The method of claim 233, wherein the cost to be charged to the user includes labor costs.

254. The method of claim 233, further comprising charging a user of the automotive appearance care products based on the number of automobiles the user treats using the automotive appearance care products.

255. The method of claim 233, further comprising charging a cost to a user of the automotive appearance care products, wherein the cost is based on a number of automobiles the user treats using the automotive appearance care products.

256. The method of claim 233, further comprising charging a cost to a user of the automotive appearance care products, wherein the cost is determined by multiplying a number of automobiles the user treats using the automotive appearance care products by a set rate for treating each automobile.

257. The method of claim 256, wherein the set rate is based on an average amount of automotive appearance care products needed to treat each automobile.

258. The method of claim 256, wherein the set rate includes chemical costs.

259. The method of claim 256, wherein the set rate includes material costs.

260. The method of claim 256, wherein the set rate includes freight costs.

261. The method of claim 256, wherein the set rate includes labor costs.

262. The method of claim 256, further comprising adjusting the set rate based on the size of the automobiles to be treated.

263. The method of claim 256, further comprising adjusting the set rate based on a type of automobile to be treated.

264. The method of claim 256, further comprising adjusting the set rate based on the location for dispensing the automotive appearance care products.

265. A method for dispensing a plurality of automotive appearance care products, comprising:

producing a plurality of mixtures from one or more raw materials and a first carrier fluid;

combining the plurality of mixtures with a second carrier fluid to produce a plurality of product fluids;

dispensing the plurality of product fluids for use as automotive appearance care products; and

assessing a cost to be charged to a user for using the automotive appearance care products based on a number of automobiles the user treats using the automotive appearance care products.

266. A method for dispensing a plurality of automotive appearance care products, comprising:

producing a plurality of mixtures from one or more raw materials and a first carrier fluid;

combining the plurality of mixtures with a second carrier fluid to produce a plurality of product fluids;

storing the plurality of product fluids;

dispensing the plurality of product fluids for use as automotive appearance care products; and

assessing a cost to be charged to a user for using the automotive appearance care products based on a number of automobiles the user treats using the automotive appearance care products.

267. A method for dispensing a plurality of automotive appearance care products, comprising:

dispensing a plurality of product fluids for use as automotive appearance care products; and

charging a cost to a user of the automotive appearance care products, wherein the cost is determined by multiplying a number of automobiles the user treats using the automotive appearance care products by a set rate for treating each automobile.

268. The method of claim 267, further comprising producing a plurality of mixtures from one or more raw materials and a first carrier fluid, and combining the plurality of mixtures with a second carrier fluid to produce the plurality of product fluids.

269. The method of claim 267, further comprising storing the plurality of product fluids prior to dispensing the plurality of product fluids.

270. The method of claim 267, further comprising dispensing the plurality of product fluids for use as automotive appearance care products from a single apparatus.

271. A method for dispensing a plurality of automotive appearance care products, comprising:

producing a plurality of mixtures from one or more raw materials and a first carrier fluid;

combining the plurality of mixtures with a second carrier fluid to produce a plurality of product fluids;

dispensing the plurality of product fluids for use as automotive appearance care products; and

charging a cost to a user of the automotive appearance care products, wherein the cost is based on a number of automobiles the user treats using the automotive appearance care products.

272. A method for dispensing a plurality of automotive appearance care products, comprising:

producing a plurality of mixtures from one or more raw materials and a first carrier fluid;

combining the plurality of mixtures with a second carrier fluid to produce a plurality of product fluids;

storing the plurality of product fluids;

dispensing the plurality of product fluids for use as automotive appearance care products; and

charging a cost to a user of the automotive appearance care products, wherein the cost is based on a number of automobiles the user treats using the automotive appearance care products.

273. A method for dispensing a plurality of automotive appearance care products, comprising:

supplying one or more raw materials, one or more powders, and a first carrier fluid to a plurality of mixing containers;

producing a plurality of mixtures from the one or more raw materials, the one or more powders, and the first carrier fluid in the plurality of mixing containers, wherein one mixture is produced in each mixing container;

combining the plurality of mixtures with a second carrier fluid to produce a plurality of product fluids;

providing the plurality of product fluids to a plurality of storage vessels prior to dispensing the plurality of product fluids, wherein one product fluid is provided to each storage vessel;

dispensing the plurality of product fluids for use as automotive appearance care products; and

assessing a cost to be charged to a user for using the automotive appearance care products based on a number of automobiles the user treats using the automotive appearance care products.

274. The method of claim 273, further comprising dispensing the plurality of product fluids for use at an automobile auction.

275. A method for dispensing a plurality of automotive appearance care products, comprising:

supplying one or more raw materials, one or more powders, and a first carrier fluid to a plurality of mixing containers;

producing a plurality of mixtures from the one or more raw materials, the one or more powders, and the first carrier fluid in the plurality of mixing containers, wherein one mixture is produced in each mixing container;

combining the plurality of mixtures with a second carrier fluid to produce a plurality of product fluids;

providing the plurality of product fluids to a plurality of storage vessels prior to dispensing the plurality of product fluids, wherein one product fluid is provided to each storage vessel;

dispensing the plurality of product fluids for use as automotive appearance care products; and

wherein a user is only allowed to control producing of the plurality of mixtures by operating a switch and dispensing of the product fluids by operating a dispensing valve.

276. The method of claim 275, further comprising assessing a cost to be charged to a user for using the automotive appearance care products based on a number of automobiles the user treats using the automotive appearance care products.

277. The method of claim 275, further comprising dispensing the plurality of product fluids for use at an automobile auction.

278. A method for dispensing a plurality of automotive appearance care products, comprising:

supplying one or more raw materials and a carrier fluid to one or more mixing containers;

forming one or more mixtures from the one or more raw materials and the carrier fluid in the mixing containers, wherein one mixture is formed in one mixing container;

providing the one or more mixtures to one or more storage vessels, wherein one mixture is provided to one storage vessel; and

dispensing the one or more mixtures for use as one or more automotive appearance care products.

279. The method of claim 278, further comprising assessing a cost to be charged to a user for using the automotive appearance care products based on a number of automobiles the user treats using the automotive appearance care products.

280. The method of claim 278, further comprising combining the one or more mixtures with a second carrier fluid prior to dispensing the mixtures for use as automotive appearance care products.

281. The method of claim 278, further comprising dispensing the plurality of product fluids for use at an automobile auction.

282. A method for dispensing a plurality of automotive appearance care products, comprising:

supplying a first raw material and a first carrier fluid to a first mixing container;

forming a first mixture from the first raw material and the first carrier fluid;

supplying a second raw material and a second carrier fluid to a second mixing container;

forming a second mixture from the second raw material and the second carrier fluid;

combining the first mixture and the second mixture to form a third mixture;

providing the third mixture to a storage vessel; and

dispensing the third mixture for use as an automotive appearance care product.

283. The method of claim 282, further comprising assessing a cost to be charged to a user for using the automotive appearance care product based on a number of automobiles the user treats using the automotive appearance care product.

284. The method of claim 282, further comprising storing the first mixture in a storage, vessel before combining the first mixture and the second mixture.

285. The method of claim 282, further comprising storing the second mixture in a storage vessel before combining the first mixture and the second mixture.

286. The method of claim 282, further comprising dispensing the plurality of product fluids for use at an automobile auction.