For equipment supply devices, equipment, and motor vehicles

Abstract

The present invention relates to a supply device (1) for an equipment, comprising: a first flow path (6) through which fluid can flow; a first consumer (3) disposed in the first flow path, the first consumer being supplied with fluid via the first flow path; a pump (7) disposed in the first flow path, through which fluid can be transported from a container (2) through the first flow path by means of the pump; a throttle (9) disposed in the first flow path upstream of the first consumer and downstream of the pump; a second flow path (11) through which fluid can flow, which is flowably connected to the first flow path at a first connection point (V1), the first connection point being disposed in the first flow path upstream of the throttle and downstream of the pump; and a second consumer (4) disposed in the second flow path, through which fluid can be supplied. The invention also relates to an equipment having the supply device and a motor vehicle having the equipment.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a supply device for equipment, particularly for motor vehicles. The invention also relates to an equipment, particularly for motor vehicles, comprising at least one such supply device. The invention further relates to a motor vehicle comprising at least one such device. Background Technology

[0002] DE102008007054A1 discloses a hydraulic device for controlling a bevel gear belt drive having a variablely adjustable gear ratio for a motor vehicle. Additionally, DE1921166B1 discloses a valve with a self-locking device. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The object of the present invention is to provide a supply device for equipment, particularly for motor vehicles, an equipment having at least one such supply device, and a motor vehicle having at least one such device, such that at least two consumers can be supplied with fluid in a particularly advantageous manner.

[0004] The objective is achieved according to the invention by a supply device for the device, the supply device comprising:

[0005] - The first flow path through which the fluid can flow;

[0006] - At least one first consumer is provided in a first flow path, the first consumer being able to be supplied with fluid flowing through the first flow path;

[0007] - A pump is installed in the first flow path, by means of which fluid can be transported from the container through the first flow path;

[0008] - A throttle valve, which is disposed upstream of the first consumer and downstream of the pump in the first flow path;

[0009] - A second flow path through which fluid can flow, the second flow path being connected to the first flow path at a first connection point, the first connection point being located upstream of the throttle and downstream of the pump in the first flow path;

[0010] - At least one second consumer is provided in the second flow path, the second consumer being able to be supplied with fluid flowing through the second flow path;

[0011] - A valve element disposed downstream of the first connection point and upstream of the second consumer in the second flow path, the valve element being movable between a closed position that shuts off the second flow path and an open position that releases the second flow path; and

[0012] - A control line that is connected at a second connection point to a first flow path, the second connection point being located upstream of the throttle and downstream of the first connection point in the first flow path, via which the valve element can be loaded with fluid from the first flow path and thus can move from a closed position to an open position, in which fluid can be simultaneously delivered from the container through the first flow path and through the second flow path by means of the pump.

[0013] The first aspect of the invention relates to a supply device for equipment, particularly for equipment in motor vehicles. The invention is not limited to motor vehicles, but the following explanation is particularly based on motor vehicles. Thus, for example, it is stipulated that a motor vehicle configured as an automobile, especially a passenger car, in its fully manufactured state has the aforementioned equipment and therefore the aforementioned supply device. The equipment may be a drivetrain or a component of the drivetrain. For example, the equipment is a drive motor, especially an internal combustion engine, or the equipment is a transmission, for example having at least two switchable and therefore engaging and disengaging gears, which may differ from each other in their gear ratios.

[0014] The supply device has a first flow path through which a fluid can flow. The fluid may be a component of the supply device. Preferably, the fluid is a liquid. The fluid may be, for example, a fuel, especially a liquid fuel. Furthermore, the fluid may be a lubricant, such as oil. The first flow path is formed, for example, by a first conduit element through which the fluid can flow, which may be, for example, a first solid. The supply device has at least one first consumer disposed in the first flow path, the first consumer being supplied with the fluid flowing through the first flow path. Thus, for example, the first consumer can operate by means of the fluid flowing through the first flow path. Alternatively or additionally, the first consumer may be lubricated and / or cooled by means of the fluid flowing through the first flow path. The first consumer is also referred to as a first machine element or a first mechanical component.

[0015] The supply device has a pump disposed in a first flow path, through which fluid can be transported from a container, such as a storage tank or oil pool, through the first flow path by means of the pump. Preferably, the pump is electrically operable or electrically driven. Thus, for example, an electric motor is provided, by which the pump can be driven or is driven by the electric motor. By means of the pump, the fluid is transported, and in particular, transported through the first flow path. The supply device also has a throttle, also referred to as a first throttle. This first throttle is disposed in the first flow path upstream of the first consumer and downstream of the pump. The throttle has a flow cross-section through which fluid can flow, also referred to as a first flow cross-section. Preferably, the first flow cross-section is fixed or rigid, i.e., cannot be changed. However, it is conceivable that the first throttle is an adjustable throttle, whose first flow cross-section is variable, i.e., adjustable.

[0016] The supply device further includes a second flow path through which fluid can flow, the second flow path being connected to the first flow path at a first connection point, and thus branching off from the first flow path at the first connection point. The first connection point is located upstream of the first flow path and downstream of the pump, such that at least a portion of the fluid flowing through the first flow path at the first connection point can branch off from the first flow path and be introduced into the second flow path, allowing the fluid introduced into the second flow path to flow through it. For example, the second flow path is formed by a second piping element through which fluid can flow, preferably a second solid.

[0017] The supply device also includes at least one second consumer disposed in a second flow path, the second consumer being supplied with fluid flowing through the second flow path. Thus, for example, the second consumer can be operated or run by means of the fluid flowing through the second flow path, and / or the second consumer can be lubricated and / or cooled by means of the fluid flowing through the second flow path. The second consumer is also referred to as a second machine element or a second mechanical component. For example, one of the machine elements or one of the consumers may be a clutch of the aforementioned transmission, or a switching element, or at least one gear or gear pair, or a gear set including at least two gears, or an electric motor by means of which the motor vehicle can be electrically driven, especially purely electric. The switching element is, for example, switchable, especially movable, between at least one coupled state and at least one disengaged state. In the coupled state, for example, two structural elements are coupled to each other in a torque-transmitting manner, especially in a torsional-resistant manner, by means of the switching element. In the disengaged state, for example, these structural elements are disengaged, such that no torque can be transmitted between these structural elements. In particular, the structural elements can rotate relative to each other in the disengaged state, which allows the switching element, for example, to rotate relative to the structural elements in the disengaged state.

[0018] The supply device further includes a valve element disposed downstream of the first connection point and upstream of the second consumer in the second flow path, which is also referred to as the first valve element. This valve element is movable, particularly capable of translational movement, between a closed position and an open position, referred to as the first closed position and the first open position, respectively. In the first closed position, the second flow path is interrupted by the first valve element, preventing any fluid from flowing through it. However, in the first open position, the first valve element releases the second flow path, allowing fluid to flow through it. Specifically, in the first open position, the pump can deliver fluid through the second flow path and thus towards the second consumer via it. It is particularly conceivable that the first flow path is released not only in the first open position but also in the first closed position, thus allowing fluid to flow through it, such that, preferably, the pump can deliver fluid through the first flow path not only in the first closed position but also in the first open position, and the first consumer can be supplied with fluid through the first flow path not only in the closed position but also in the open position.

[0019] The supply device further includes a control line that is connected to the first flow path guide at a second connection point. The second connection point is located upstream of the first throttle and downstream of the first connection point in the first flow path, such that the valve element is supplied with fluid from the first flow path via the control line, particularly when fluid is pumped from the container through the first flow path by means of a pump. The fluid at the second connection point has a pressure also referred to as a first pressure. Because the control line is connected to the first flow path guide at the second connection point, fluid with the first pressure can be contained in the control line. Therefore, the valve element can be loaded with fluid with the first pressure via the control line, that is, it can be loaded with the first pressure, and thus the valve element (the first valve element) can move from a closed position to an open position. In the first open position of the first valve element, fluid can be pumped from the container simultaneously through the first and second flow paths by means of a pump, such that if the first valve element is in the first open position, then each consumer can be supplied with fluid simultaneously via the respective flow path by means of the pump.

[0020] The supply device according to the invention allows for the supply of fluid to each consumer in a particularly simple and demanding manner, without requiring an excessive number of costly, bulky, and space-consuming components such as valves. In particular, the supply device allows for selective supply of fluid to each consumer, either to the first consumer only or to both consumers simultaneously, especially in the following manner: in the first operating state of the pump, by means of the pump, for example, a first volumetric flow rate of fluid is delivered through a first flow path, such that fluid with the first volumetric flow rate flows through the first flow path. For the pump to deliver fluid with the first volumetric flow rate, the pump, for example, especially one configured as electrically operable, is supplied with a first current and thus operates by means of the first current. The first volumetric flow rate is greater than 0, but for example, so small that the first volumetric flow rate, or the fluid pressure caused by the first connection point and present at the second connection point, is insufficient to move the first valve element from the closed position to the open position, such that in the first operating state the valve element—especially automatically—is in the first closed position. For example, the first valve element is equipped with a spring element, particularly a mechanical spring element, which is tensioned or can be tensioned by the movement of the first valve element from a first closed position to a first open position, and thus provides a spring force that acts at least indirectly, and particularly directly, on the first valve element, enabling the first valve element to move from the first open position to the first closed position by means of the spring force. For example, the spring element also provides the spring force or another spring force in the first closed position, thus holding the first valve element in the first closed position. The first volumetric flow rate, or the resulting first pressure, is insufficient at this time to move the first valve element against the spring force provided by the spring element from the first closed position to the first open position.

[0021] By increasing the volumetric flow rate of the fluid, the fluid pressure present at the first throttle increases, and thus the first pressure of the fluid present at the second connection point increases, wherein, for example, the first pressure of the fluid present at the second connection point is at least substantially equal to the fluid pressure present at the first throttle. Therefore, it is possible, for example, that the pump operates in a second operating state. In the second operating state of the pump, a second volumetric flow rate of fluid is delivered by means of the pump, which is particularly greater than the first volumetric flow rate. The second volumetric flow rate causes a second pressure at the second connection point, greater than the first pressure, such that the first valve element is loaded with fluid having the second pressure, or is loaded with the second pressure, via the control line. The second volumetric flow rate and the resulting second pressure are now preferably so large that the valve element, in particular, moves from the first closed position to the first open position against the spring force provided by the spring element, causing the first valve element to release the second flow path. Therefore, it is preferably specified that the valve element is in the first open position in the second operating state, such that in the second operating state, fluid is delivered by means of the pump simultaneously through the first flow path and simultaneously through the second flow path. Thus, in the second operating state, both consumers are supplied with fluid simultaneously. In contrast, in the first operating state, fluid is transported only through the first flow path by means of the pump, such that in the first operating state, only the first consumer is supplied with fluid. The second operating state, or second volumetric flow rate, can be caused or realized, for example, by supplying the pump with a second current greater than the first current, and thus operating by means of the second current. To reduce the volumetric flow rate, for example, fluid is supplied only to the first consumer again. In other words, the operating state is changed or switched back to the first operating state, for example. Therefore, the operating states can be changed or switched in a simple and demanding manner, so that each consumer can be supplied with fluid as needed. In particular, it can be seen that the second consumer can be switched on and off as needed. Specifically, it can be understood that fluid supply to the second consumer is prohibited in the first operating state, so that the second consumer is switched off in the first operating state. By setting or realizing the second operating state, that is, by switching from the first operating state to the second operating state, the second consumer is switched on, so that in the second operating state, not only the first consumer but also the second consumer is supplied with fluid. Therefore, the supply device according to the invention allows for simple and efficient distribution of fluid, especially in hydraulic lines. Here, each consumer can be supplied with fluid as needed, without requiring active manipulation or operation of components such as valves. The first valve element can be opened and closed, for example, uniquely and individually, by setting or changing the volumetric flow rate of the fluid delivered by the pump.In other words, the movement of the first valve element between the first open position and the first closed position can be caused by a change in the volumetric flow rate of the fluid, without requiring active or electrical control of the first valve element. As explained above, the volumetric flow rate of the fluid can be set or changed by means of a pump, for example, by changing the current supplied to the pump so as to operate the pump. Overall, the supply device allows for the supply of fluid to the second consumer as needed and therefore as required. In other words, fluid can be delivered to the second consumer as required, making the invention particularly advantageous for transmissions or transmission components, cooling cycles, etc.

[0022] To enable a particularly simple and demanding method of supplying fluid to the second consumer, one embodiment of the invention specifies that a second flow restrictor is provided upstream of the second consumer and downstream of the first valve element in the second flow path. This second flow restrictor has a second flow cross-section through which fluid can flow. Preferably, the second flow cross-section is fixed or rigid, i.e., non-adjustable. However, it is generally acceptable for the second flow cross-section to be adjustable, particularly electrically adjustable. Alternatively or supplementary, the first flow cross-section and the first flow restrictor may be adjustable, for example, electrically adjustable. However, it is preferable that both flow restrictors are configured as fixed, i.e., non-adjustable, so that fluid can be supplied to each consumer in a particularly inexpensive, space-saving, and weight-saving manner.

[0023] Another embodiment features a third flow path through which the fluid can flow. This third flow path is formed, for example, by a third piping element, which is preferably a third solid. This third flow path is connected at a third connection point to the first flow path and / or to the second flow path. The third flow path is connected at a fourth connection point to the second flow path. The third connection point is located downstream of the pump and, for example, upstream of the first connection point in the first flow path, or with respect to the first flow path. Alternatively or supplementarily, the third connection point is located upstream of the valve element and preferably downstream of the pump in the second flow path, or with respect to the second flow path. The fourth connection point is located downstream of the first valve element and upstream of the second consumer in the second flow path, or with respect to the second flow path. The third flow path allows for the supply of fluid, particularly to the second consumer, in a particularly advantageous and demand-driven manner.

[0024] In order to supply fluid to the second consumer in a manner particularly suited to the demand, it has been shown that it is advantageous to place the fourth connection point in or about the second flow path upstream of the second throttle.

[0025] In another particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention, a second valve element is disposed downstream of the third connection point and upstream of the fourth connection point in the third flow path. This second valve element is movable, particularly translational, between a second closed position and a second open position. In the second closed position, the third flow path is interrupted by the second valve element, preventing any fluid from flowing through it. However, in the second open position, the second valve element releases the third flow path, allowing fluid to flow through it. In particular, fluid can be pumped from the container through the third flow path in the second open position using the pump. The third flow path and the second valve element disposed therein allow for particularly demanding on / off switching of the second consumer without requiring actively operable components. Therefore, the cost, structural space requirements, and weight of the supply device can be kept particularly low.

[0026] Another embodiment is characterized in that the supply device has a return line. Via the return line, the second valve element can be loaded with fluid from the second flow path from the return point and thus can move from a second closed position to a second open position. The return point is located in the second flow path downstream of the first valve element and upstream of the second consumer, particularly upstream of the second throttle.

[0027] The first valve element, for example, has a first opening pressure. From this first opening pressure, the first valve element opens, thus moving from a first closed position to a first open position. If the fluid pressure present at the second connection point is therefore greater than or equal to the first opening pressure, then the first valve element, initially in the first closed position, moves from the first closed position to the first open position. If the fluid pressure present at the second connection point is less than the first opening pressure, then the first valve element remains in the first closed position. The second valve element, for example, has a second opening pressure. From this second opening pressure, the second valve element opens, thus moving from a second closed position to a second open position. If, for example, the fluid pressure present at the return point is greater than or equal to the second opening pressure, then the second valve element, initially in the second closed position, moves from the second closed position to the second open position; however, if, for example, the fluid pressure present at the return point is less than the second opening pressure, then the second valve element remains in the second closed position. The fluid pressure present at the return point depends, for example, on the volumetric flow rate of the fluid flowing through the second flow path, or in other words, flowing at the return point, achieved by means of a pump.

[0028] For example, the second valve element is equipped with a second spring element, particularly a mechanical spring element, which is tensioned or can be tensioned by the movement of the second valve element from the second closed position to the second open position, and thus provides a second spring force that acts on the second valve element at least indirectly, and particularly directly. Therefore, for example, the second valve element can move from the second open position to the second closed position by means of the second spring force, and in particular, can remain in the second closed position. If the fluid pressure present at the return point is greater than or equal to the opening pressure, then the second opening force caused by the fluid pressure present at the return point and acting on the valve element is greater than the second spring force, such that the second valve element moves from the second closed position to the second open position.

[0029] The second valve element can be loaded with at least a portion of the fluid from the third flow path via a return line and thus can be held in the second open position, thereby achieving or enabling self-holding of the second valve element. For example, the return line is connected at a return point to both the third and second flow paths in a flow-guiding manner, such that, for example, when the second valve element is still in the second closed position, the second valve element can be loaded with fluid from the second flow path via the return line from the return point, and thus can move from the second closed position to the second open position. During the period when the second valve element is in the second open position, the second valve element can be loaded with at least a portion of the fluid from the third flow path and thus can be held in the second open position. In other words, the return line allows at least a portion of the fluid to be returned from the third flow path to the second valve element, therefore, the second valve element is held or can be held in the second open position by self-holding. By means of the self-holding of the second valve element, it is possible to avoid, for example, when fluctuations or vibrations occur in the first valve element and, for example, when the first valve element at least temporarily reaches its first closed position, the second valve element moving undesirably from the second open position to the second closed position by means of the second spring force, thus interrupting the fluid supply to the second consumer. By means of retraction, or self-holding, the second valve element can also remain in the second open position during such vibrations or fluctuations of the first valve element, such that even when the first valve element moves at least temporarily to its first open position due to vibrations or fluctuations, the second valve element continues to be supplied with fluid via the third flow path and thus via the open second valve element. Therefore, a particularly simple, advantageous, and reliable fluid supply to the second consumer can be guaranteed.

[0030] It has proven particularly advantageous that the return line connects to both the second and third flow path guides at the fourth connection point. In other words, it is preferably specified that the previously mentioned return point is the fourth connection point. Therefore, return and self-holding can be achieved in a particularly simple manner, ensuring a reliable and demand-compliant fluid supply to the second consumer. The fourth connection point can thus coincide with the return point.

[0031] The second aspect of the invention relates to a device, particularly a device for a motor vehicle. The device according to the second aspect of the invention has at least one supply device according to the first aspect of the invention. The advantages and benefits of the first aspect of the invention can be considered as advantages and benefits of the second aspect of the invention, and vice versa.

[0032] It has proven particularly advantageous that the device is a transmission or an electric motor. Therefore, it is preferred that the device is a structural element or part of a transmission, or a structural element or part of an electric motor, so that fluid can be supplied in a particularly advantageous and demanding manner.

[0033] The third aspect of the invention relates to a motor vehicle, preferably configured as an automobile, particularly a passenger car, said motor vehicle having the equipment according to the second aspect of the invention. The advantages and benefits of the first and second aspects of the invention can be considered as advantages and benefits of the third aspect of the invention, and vice versa. Attached Figure Description

[0034] Further details of the invention will be provided in the following description of preferred embodiments, together with the accompanying drawings.

[0035] Here, the only Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a supply device for equipment according to the present invention, particularly a supply device for equipment for motor vehicles. Detailed Implementation

[0036] Figure 1The schematic diagram shows a supply device 1 for equipment, particularly for equipment used in motor vehicles. This means that the equipment has the supply device 1 in its fully manufactured state. It is also preferred that a motor vehicle, preferably configured as an automobile, particularly a passenger car, has the equipment and therefore the supply device 1 in its fully manufactured state. The equipment can be, for example, a transmission or motor of the motor vehicle's drivetrain. The motor vehicle is electrically driven, particularly purely electrically driven, by means of the motor. Alternatively or additionally, the motor vehicle can be driven via a transmission. Preferably, the drivetrain is an electric drivetrain, thereby enabling electrically driven, particularly purely electrically driven, motor vehicles. The drivetrain may include the transmission and / or the motor. Preferably, the motor is a high-voltage component, the voltage of which, particularly the operating unit or rated voltage, is preferably greater than 50 volts, particularly greater than 60 volts, and especially preferably several hundred volts. Therefore, particularly large electrical power can be achieved for electrically driving, particularly purely electrically driven, motor vehicles.

[0037] The supply device 1 has a container 2 in which fluid is contained or can be contained. The fluid is preferably a liquid. The fluid can be a fuel, especially a liquid fuel. Alternatively, the fluid can be a lubricant, especially oil, thereby enabling, for example, lubrication and / or cooling of at least a corresponding portion of the supply device 1, and thus enabling lubrication and / or cooling of at least a corresponding portion of the equipment. The supply device 1 includes a first consumer 3 and a second consumer 4. Consumers 3 and 4 can, for example, be the aforementioned portions of the equipment. At least one of the consumers 3 and 4 can be a lubrication point where fluid can be supplied, at which the equipment can be lubricated and / or cooled by means of the fluid. At least one of the consumers 3 and 4 can be a switching element or a clutch, which can be operated by means of the fluid.

[0038] The supply device 1 has a flow passage for fluid and Figure 1 The first flow path 6, indicated by dashed arrow 5, contains a first consumer 3. Therefore, the first consumer 3 can be supplied with fluid via the first flow path 6. The supply device 1 also includes a pump 7, which is disposed within the first flow path 6. The pump 7 allows fluid to be conveyed from the container 2 and transported through the first flow path 6 (dashed arrow 5). Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, pump 7 is an electric pump. This means that pump 7 has an electric motor and a delivery element, as shown in... Figure 1As indicated by the double arrow 8, the conveying element is driven by an electric motor and therefore can move, and in particular rotate, relative to the pump housing of pump 7. By driving this conveying element, fluid is conveyed from container 2 and, in particular, through the first flow path 6, by means of the conveying element and, therefore, by means of pump 7. To drive the conveying element by means of the electric motor, the electric motor is supplied with electrical energy, or current. It is understood here that pump 7 is supplied with current. Pump 7 can convey fluid with a corresponding volumetric flow rate. By changing the current, the electric motor, or pump 7, can operate by means of the current, thus changing the volumetric flow rate of the fluid conveyed by pump 7. It is evident that pump 7 is positioned in the first flow path 6.

[0039] The supply device 1 also includes a first throttle 9, which is disposed upstream of the consumer 3 and downstream of the pump 7 in the first flow path 6, the pump being disposed downstream of the consumer 3. As explained more precisely below, the consumers 3 and 4 can be supplied with fluid from the container 2 by means of the pump 7. After the consumers 3 and 4 are supplied with fluid from the container 2, the fluid can flow back from the consumers 3 and 4 to another container or back to the container 2, so that the circulation through which the fluid can flow is closed.

[0040] The supply device 1 also includes... Figure 1 The second flow path 11, indicated by solid arrow 10, is through which fluid can flow. This second flow path 11 is connected to the first flow path 6 at a first connection point V1. This connection point V1 is located downstream of the pump 7 and upstream of the throttle 9 in the first flow path 6, i.e., with respect to flow path 6 or the fluid flowing through flow path 6. Therefore, at connection point V1, at least a portion of the fluid flowing through the first flow path 6 can branch off from the first flow path 6 and be introduced into the second flow path 11, through which the fluid can then flow. In other words, flow path 11 branches off from flow path 6 at connection point V1. Thus, for example, flow path 11 is connected in parallel with a portion of flow path 6, which extends, for example, from connection point V1 to the consumer 3. Figure 1 As can be seen, the second consumer 4—which is a component of the supply device 1 and is also a component of the device here—is disposed in the second flow path 11, so that the second consumer 4 can be supplied with fluid flowing through the second flow path 11.

[0041] The supply device 1 further includes a first valve element 12, which is disposed downstream of the first connection point V1 and upstream of the second consumer 4 in the second flow path 11. The valve element 12 is capable of being displayed on Figure 1The flow path 11 moves between a first closed position and a first open position. In the first closed position, the flow path 11 is interrupted by valve element 12. However, in the first open position, valve element 12 releases the flow path 11. The supply device 1 also includes a control line 13, which is connected to the first flow path 6 at a second connection point V2. The second connection point V2 is located upstream of the throttle 9 and downstream of the connection point V1 in the flow path 6, i.e., with respect to the flow path 6 or the fluid flowing through the flow path 6. Through the control line 13, the first valve element 12 can be loaded with fluid from the first flow path 6 and thus can move from the first closed position to the first open position, in which fluid can be simultaneously delivered from the container 2 through the first flow path 6 and through the second flow path 11 by means of the pump 7. Figure 1 As can be seen, valve element 12 is equipped with a first spring element 14, particularly a mechanical spring element. If valve element 12 moves from a first closed position to a first open position, then spring element 14 is tensioned, thus providing a first spring force. This first spring force acts at least indirectly, and particularly directly, on the first valve element 12 in the first open position, enabling the first valve element 12 to move from the first open position to the first closed position by means of the first spring force. Preferably, spring element 14 provides its first spring force even in the first closed position, so that valve element 12 is also held in the first closed position by means of the first spring force. Based on the volumetric flow rate of the fluid delivered through the first flow path 6 by means of pump 7, the fluid has a pressure at connection point V2, also known as a first pressure, which is therefore changed or can be changed by changing the volumetric flow rate of the fluid flowing through flow path 6. Valve element 12 can be loaded with fluid having the first pressure, i.e., be loaded with the first pressure, via control line 13. Here, the first valve element 12 has a first opening pressure, from which the valve element 12 opens, that is, moves from a first closed position to a first open position. If the first pressure of the fluid is therefore greater than or equal to the first opening pressure, then the valve element 12, which was initially in the first closed position, moves from the first closed position to the first open position. If the first pressure is less than the first opening pressure, then the valve element 12 remains in the first closed position.

[0042] The supply device 1 further includes a second throttle 15, which is disposed upstream of the consumer 4 and downstream of the valve element 12 in the flow path 11. Preferably, throttles 9 and 15 are non-adjustable, i.e., rigid throttles, and their respective flow cross-sections through which fluid can flow are rigid, i.e., non-adjustable. However, it is conceivable that throttles 9 and / or throttle 15 are adjustable throttles, and their flow cross-sections through which fluid can flow are adjustable, i.e., can be changed, especially electrically changed.

[0043] The supply device 1 also has a flow passage for fluid and Figure 1 The third flow path 17 is indicated by dashed arrow 16. The third flow path 17 is connected to the first flow path 6 at the third connection point V3. Furthermore, flow path 17 is connected to the second flow path 11 at the fourth connection point V4. The third connection point V3 is located downstream of the pump 7 in flow path 6, and preferably upstream of connection point V1. Alternatively or additionally, connection point V3 may be located in the second flow path 11, and preferably upstream of valve element 12 and downstream of pump 7. The fourth connection point V4 is located downstream of valve element 12 and upstream of consumer 4, particularly upstream of throttle valve 15, in the second flow path 11, i.e., with respect to the second flow path 11 or the fluid flowing through the second flow path 11. Therefore, for example at connection point V3, at least a portion of the fluid flowing through flow path 6 can branch off from flow path 6 and enter flow path 17, and then flow through flow path 17. For example, at connection point V4, fluid flowing through flow path 17 can flow out of flow path 17 and into flow path 11, and then flow through a second portion of flow path 11, which extends, for example, from connection point V4 to consumer 4. Therefore, fluid flowing through flow path 17 can, for example, flow from connection point V4 via the second portion of flow path 11 to consumer 4.

[0044] In the third flow path 17, a second valve element 18 is provided downstream of the third connection point V3 and upstream of the fourth connection point V4. This second valve element is capable of being displayed on... Figure 1 The flow path 17 moves between a second closed position and a second open position. In the second closed position, the third flow path 17 is interrupted by valve element 18. However, in the second open position, valve element 18 releases the third flow path 17.

[0045] A first opening force is caused by a first pressure of fluid present at connection point V2, which acts on valve element 12 and, in particular, resists a first spring force. If the first pressure of fluid present at connection point V2 is greater than or equal to a first opening pressure, the first opening force is greater than the first spring force, causing valve element 12, initially in the first closed position, to open against the first spring force, thus moving from the first closed position to the first open position. If the first pressure is less than the first opening pressure, or if the first pressure drops below the first opening pressure, the first opening force is less than the first spring force, or if the first opening force drops below the first spring force, causing valve element 12, initially in the first open position, to move to the first closed position by means of the first spring force. The same applies to valve element 18.

[0046] Valve element 18 is equipped with a second spring element 19, particularly a mechanical spring element. As valve element 18 moves from a second closed position to a second open position, the second spring element 19 is tensioned, thus providing a second spring force. Preferably, spring element 19 also provides a second spring force in the second closed position, so that the second valve element 18 is held, or can be held, in the second closed position by means of the second spring force. The second valve element 18 can move from the second open position to the second closed position by means of the second spring force. Here, the second valve element 18 has a second opening pressure, from which the second valve element 18 opens, particularly against the second spring force, thus moving from the second closed position to the second open position. This is explained in more detail below. In the second open position, fluid can be transported from container 2 through the third flow path 17 by means of pump 7. If, for example, both valve elements 12 and 18 are in the open position, then by means of pump 7, fluid is simultaneously delivered through the first flow path 6, through the second flow path 11, and through the third flow path 17, such that the consumer 3 is supplied with fluid via flow path 6, and the consumer 4 is supplied with fluid via flow paths 11 and 17. Here, for example, flow path 17 is connected in parallel with the third portion of flow path 11 in flow technology, the third portion of flow path 11 extending from connection point V1 to connection point V4.

[0047] The supply device 1 here has a return line 20, which is connected at connection point V4 to flow path 11 and flow path 17. Therefore, connection point V4 is a return point, at which return line 20 is connected to flow paths 11 and 17. At connection point V4, the fluid has, for example, a second pressure, especially when valve element 12 is open and valve element 18 is closed. Alternatively, it can be considered that when valve elements 12 and 18 are open simultaneously, the fluid has a second pressure at connection point V4. Via return line 20, especially when valve element 18 is closed first, i.e., when the valve element is first in the second closed position, the valve element can be loaded with fluid from the second flow path 11 from the return point (V4), so that the valve element 18 can be loaded with fluid having a second pressure via return line 20, i.e., can be loaded with a second pressure. The second pressure can then be, for example, the volumetric flow rate of the fluid flowing at the return point (connection point V4) and in this case, through flow path 11 and / or flow path 17, achieved by means of pump 7.

[0048] The second valve element 18 has a second opening pressure, from which it moves from the second closed position to, or is capable of moving to, the second open position. If the second pressure is less than the second opening pressure, such that the second opening force, caused by the second pressure and acting at least indirectly, and especially directly, on the valve element, and resisting the second spring force, is less than the second spring force, then the valve element 18 is closed and remains closed, thus in its second closed position. In other words, the volumetric flow rate of the fluid at the return point (connection point V4) is so small that the pressure present at the return point, i.e., the second pressure of the fluid, is less than the second opening pressure, therefore, the valve element 18 remains in its second closed position. However, if the second pressure of the fluid is greater than or equal to the second opening pressure, such that the second opening force caused by the second pressure is greater than the second spring force, then the valve element 18, initially in the second closed position, opens, thus moving from the second closed position to the second open position. Therefore, the valve element 18 releases the flow path 17, allowing fluid to flow through the flow path 17. In particular, when valve element 18 is in the second open position, the second valve element 18 can be loaded with at least a portion of the fluid from the third flow path 17 via the return line 20, and thus remain in the second open position. Therefore, the return of fluid from the flow path 17 to valve element 18 is achieved or can be achieved via the return line 20, and thus the self-holding of valve element 18 is achieved or can be achieved. This is particularly advantageous due to the following reasons:

[0049] First, valve elements 12 and 18 are in their open positions, such that both consumers 3 and 4 are supplied with fluid simultaneously. If, for example, a fluctuation or vibration of valve element 12 occurs, caused by pressure fluctuations in flow path 6, the valve element 12, which is initially open and therefore initially in the first open position, closes at least temporarily and / or several times in succession by means of the first spring force, thus moving to the first closed position. Therefore, the undesirable movement of valve element 18, which is initially in the second open position, to the second closed position can be avoided by self-holding. If, for example, valve element 12 comes to the first closed position due to its vibration, such that consumer 4 can no longer be supplied with fluid via valve element 12, then valve element 18 continues to be loaded with fluid from flow path 17 via return line 20 and thus remains in the second open position, such that when valve element 12 is at least temporarily in the first closed position, consumer 4 can continue to be supplied with fluid via valve element 18 and the third flow path 17. Thus, it can be guaranteed that fluid is supplied to consumer 4 in a demand-compliant and reliable manner.

[0050] The following explains one possible operation of the supply device 1: Pump 7, such as an electric pump, delivers fluid from container 2 to consumer 3 via first throttle 9. If the fluid pressure at throttle 9 increases and therefore the first pressure of the fluid at connection point V2 increases, for example because the current operating pump 7 is increased and therefore the volumetric flow rate of the fluid caused by pump 7 is increased, then the first shut-off valve element 12 is activated, that is, opened. The fluid can then flow through flow path 11 and therefore to second throttle 15, and the fluid flows to consumer 4 and simultaneously to consumer 3 according to the hydraulic distribution caused by throttles 9 and 15. The fluid pressure at or before throttle 15 in flow path 11 is here activated downstream of connection point V4, or in other words, valve element 18 is activated. In other words, the pressure present at second throttle 15 and therefore the second pressure of the fluid increases, such that the second pressure is greater than or equal to the second opening pressure, thus the first shut-off valve element 18 is opened. Valve element 18 remains open under effective volumetric flow and under the pressure generated at or before the second throttle 15—especially downstream of connection point V4 by means of the aforementioned self-holding and therefore by hydraulic return caused through return line 20. If, for example, the current operating the pump 7 is reduced, causing the volumetric flow rate of the fluid caused by the pump 7 to decrease, then the pressure at or before the throttle 9 decreases, and therefore the first pressure decreases, especially the first pressure decreases so much that the first valve element 12 closes, and thus the first valve element is closed by means of the first spring force. This is especially true when the volumetric flow rate of the fluid caused by the pump 7 decreases so strongly that the first pressure decreases so strongly that the first pressure is less than the first opening pressure.

[0051] Preferably, the first opening pressure is greater than the second opening pressure. Furthermore, it is preferably specified that the second opening pressure is selected such that back pressure can be generated by means of the second throttle 15 at small and medium volumetric flow rates. Therefore, effective operation of the pump 7 is possible. In other words, it is preferably specified that the second opening pressure is selected such that, at small and medium volumetric flow rates of fluid that can be generated by means of the pump 7, the second opening pressure can be generated or caused by means of the second throttle 15.

[0052] Preferably, the respective throttle 9 or 15 has a corresponding back pressure. In other words, it is preferably specified that throttle 9 has a first back pressure and throttle 15 has a second back pressure. Here, the corresponding back pressure, for example, resists the flow of fluid through the respective flow path 6 or 11. It is preferably specified that the second back pressure of the second throttle 15 is less than the first back pressure of the first throttle 9, especially when the same or the same fluid volume flow rate passes through the respective throttle 15 or 9. This can be achieved in particular in such a way that the second flow cross section through which the fluid can flow in the throttle 15 is larger than the first flow cross section through which the fluid can flow in the throttle 9, and the flow cross section through which the fluid can flow in the respective throttle 9 or 15 can be understood in particular as the smallest or least flow cross section through which the fluid can flow in the respective throttle 9 or 15.

[0053] By designing the second opening pressure, the minimum required volumetric flow rate of the fluid on pump 7 can be defined, from which the second valve element 18 is shut off again. In other words, by designing the second opening pressure of the second valve element 18, the minimum required volumetric flow rate of the fluid, which can be induced or regulated by pump 7 and is also called the shut-off volumetric flow rate, can be defined, from which valve element 18 is shut off. In order to shut off, for example, the first-opening second valve element 18, pump 7 is operated, and in particular regulated, such that the volumetric flow rate of the fluid is at least temporarily less than or equal to the shut-off volumetric flow rate. In other words, pump 7 is operated, and in particular regulated, such that the pressure is at least temporarily less than the second opening pressure, so that the first-opening valve element 18 is shut off by means of the second spring force. Preferably, pump 7 is designed such that it can generate a volumetric flow rate, which, when valve element 12 is open, in conjunction with the flow cross sections of the corresponding throttling cross sections of throttles 9 and 15, the first-closed second valve element 18 is opened. Therefore, it is generally possible to switch the consumer 4 on and off as needed, such that, for example, in or through the first operating state of the pump 7, only the consumer 4 is supplied with fluid by means of the pump 7, because in the first operating state, valve element 12 is closed and preferably valve element 18 is also closed, especially simultaneously. In or through the second operating state of the pump 7, both consumers 3 and 4 are supplied with fluid simultaneously by means of the pump 7, because, for example, in the second operating state, valve elements 12 and 18 are simultaneously open. It can be seen that the open and closed positions of valve elements 12 and 18, and thus the operating states, can be easily changed or switched by altering the volumetric flow rate of the fluid, without the valve elements 12 and 18 being actively or electrically controlled. As explained above, the fluid connection point can be changed by means of the pump 7, and especially by altering the current operating the pump 7. It goes without saying that the pump 7 is mechanically operable, such that spring elements can be mechanically driven. Generally speaking, the volumetric flow rate of the fluid can be changed, especially by means of the pump 7, by changing the speed of the spring element's movement and / or the rotational speed of the spring element.

[0054] List of reference numerals

[0055] 1. Supply device

[0056] 2 containers

[0057] 3 First Consumer

[0058] 4. Second Consumer

[0059] 5 arrows

[0060] 6 First Flow Path

[0061] 7 pumps

[0062] 8 arrows

[0063] 9 First throttle

[0064] 10 arrows

[0065] 11 Second Flow Path

[0066] 12 First valve element

[0067] 13 Control Piping

[0068] 14 First Spring Element

[0069] 15 Second throttle

[0070] 16 arrows

[0071] 17 Third Flow Path

[0072] 18 Second valve element

[0073] 19 Second Spring Element

[0074] 20 return pipeline

[0075] V1 First Connection Point

[0076] V2 Second Connection Point

[0077] V3 Third Connection Point

[0078] V4 fourth connection point

Claims

1. A supply device (1) for an equipment, the supply device comprising: - The first flow path through which the fluid can flow (6); - At least one first consumer (3) is provided in the first flow path (6), the first consumer being able to be supplied with fluid flowing through the first flow path (6); - A pump (7) is provided in the first flow path (6), by means of which fluid can be transported from container (2) through the first flow path (6); - A throttle (9) is provided in the first flow path (6) upstream of the first consumer (3) and downstream of the pump (7); - A second flow path (11) through which the fluid can flow, the second flow path being connected to the first flow path (6) at the first connection point (V1), the first connection point being located in the first flow path (6) upstream of the throttle (9) and downstream of the pump (7); - At least one second consumer (4) is provided in the second flow path (11), the second consumer being able to be supplied with fluid flowing through the second flow path (11); - A valve element (12) is disposed in the second flow path (11) downstream of the first connection point (V1) and upstream of the second consumer (4), the valve element being movable between a closed position that shuts off the second flow path (11) and an open position that releases the second flow path (11); and - A control line (13) is connected to the first flow path (6) at a second connection point (V2), which is located upstream of the throttle (9) and downstream of the first connection point (V1) in the first flow path (6). Through this control line, the valve element (12) can be loaded with fluid from the first flow path (6) and thus can move from the closed position to the open position, in which fluid can be simultaneously delivered from the container (2) through the first flow path (6) and through the second flow path (11) by means of the pump (7).

2. The supply device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, A second throttle (15) is provided in the second flow path (11) upstream of the second consumer (4) and downstream of the valve element (12).

3. The supply device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that... A third flow path (17) through which the fluid can flow, the third flow path being connected to the first flow path (6) and / or the second flow path (11) at a third connection point (V3), and connected to the second flow path (11) at a fourth connection point (V4), the third connection point being located downstream of the pump (7) in the first flow path and / or upstream of the valve element (12) in the second flow path (11), the fourth connection point being located downstream of the valve element (12) and upstream of the second consumer (4) in the second flow path (11).

4. The supply device (1) according to claim 2, characterized in that... A third flow path (17) through which the fluid can flow, the third flow path being connected to the first flow path (6) and / or the second flow path (11) at a third connection point (V3), and connected to the second flow path (11) at a fourth connection point (V4), the third connection point being located downstream of the pump (7) in the first flow path and / or upstream of the valve element (12) in the second flow path (11), the fourth connection point being located downstream of the valve element (12) and upstream of the second consumer (4) in the second flow path (11).

5. The supply device (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that, The fourth connection point (V4) is located upstream of the second throttle (15) in the second flow path (11).

6. The supply device (1) according to any one of claims 3 to 5, characterized in that, A second valve element (18) is provided downstream of the third connection point (V3) and upstream of the fourth connection point (V4) in the third flow path (17). This second valve element is movable between a second closed position that shuts off the third flow path (17) and a second open position that releases the third flow path (17). In the second open position, fluid can be transported from the container (2) through the third flow path (17) by means of the pump (7).

7. The supply device (1) according to claim 6, characterized in that... Return line (20), through which the second valve element (18) is located: - Fluid from the second flow path (11) can be loaded from the return point (V4) and thus can move from the second closed position to the second open position, the return point being located downstream of the first valve element (12) and upstream of the second consumer (4) in the second flow path (11); and - At least a portion of the fluid from the third flow path (17) can be loaded and thus can be held in the second open position.

8. The supply device (1) according to claim 7, characterized in that, The return pipeline (20) is connected to the second flow path (11) and the third flow path (17) at the fourth connection point (V4), which serves as the return point.

9. An apparatus comprising at least one supply device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. The device according to claim 9, characterized in that, The device is a transmission or a motor.

11. A motor vehicle comprising at least one device according to claim 9 or 10.

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