Air handling unit, air management system, pneumatic system, and vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to an air treatment unit, an air management system, a pneumatic system and a vehicle. The air treatment unit comprises an inlet port, an air drying unit, and a supply line configured to exchange, in particular to supply, dry compressed air between the air drying unit and a supply port, and a return pneumatic line configured to exchange, in particular to return, compressed air of the supply port to the air drying unit, wherein a backflow control unit comprises an electrically controllable valve and is arranged and configured such that during a regeneration phase the returned compressed air can flow from the return pneumatic line via the electrically controllable valve and via the supply line and the air drying unit to a pneumatic exhaust line in accordance with an electrically controllable signal. According to the invention, it is provided that the electrically controllable valve is provided as a single and only electrically controllable valve of the backflow control unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an air handling unit for supplying compressed air to a supply port, particularly for use in a pneumatic system pneumatically connected to the supply port, preferably wherein the pneumatic system is suitable for a vehicle. The invention also relates to an air management system, a pneumatic system, and a vehicle. Background Technology

[0002] In conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) truck systems, electronic control and electronic air drying / air handling units are constructed to control the compressor, typically by providing appropriate pneumatic signals to the compressor via a governor to cut off the exhaust line, and by providing control pressure to the compressor control port.

[0003] However, in autonomous connected electric (ACE) vehicles, it is advantageous to use an electronically controlled compressor that is controlled solely by electronic inputs via a controller area network (CAN).

[0004] Currently available systems, whether for ICE or ACE vehicles, include dedicated valves for pneumatically controlled compressors. Typically, the air preparation unit provides control pressure at a dedicated port to control the governor and the opening of the vent valve. Alternatively, the air preparation unit provides control pressure at a dedicated port to control the governor, and the vent valve is controlled in conjunction with the regeneration phase of the air dryer unit, particularly the desiccant cartridge. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Therefore, one object of the present invention is to provide a cost-effective air handling unit specifically designed for electronically controlled compressors.

[0006] The inventors have recognized that since electronically controlled compressors do not require pneumatic signals, there is no longer a need for pneumatic signals to provide control pressures that would normally come from air handling units or air drying units.

[0007] A first aspect of the invention comprises an air handling unit for supplying compressed air to a supply port, particularly for use in a pneumatic system including a pneumatic unit pneumatically connected to the supply port, preferably wherein the pneumatic system is adapted for a vehicle. The air handling unit includes an inlet port for receiving compressed air, particularly from an electronically controlled compressed air source. The air handling unit also includes an air drying unit, which includes an input port pneumatically connected to the inlet port, and wherein the air drying unit is configured to dry the compressed air received via the inlet port. The air handling unit further includes: a supply line configured to exchange, particularly supply, dried compressed air between the air drying unit and the supply port; and a return pneumatic line configured to exchange compressed air from the supply port, particularly returning it to the air drying unit, particularly from the supply line, particularly returning it to the air drying unit. In the air handling unit of the first embodiment of the present invention, an electrically controlled valve is arranged between a first section of the return pneumatic line connected to the supply port and a second section of the return pneumatic line connected to the air drying unit, and a vent valve is configured to control the flow of exhaust air via a pneumatic exhaust line, wherein the pneumatic exhaust line pneumatically connects the input port of the air drying unit to the outside through an exhaust port.

[0008] During the air drying phase, dried compressed air is supplied from the air drying unit to the supply port via a supply line, and during the regeneration phase, returned compressed air is returned from the supply port to the air drying unit via a return pneumatic line. In the air handling unit according to the first embodiment of the invention, the return control unit includes an electrically controlled valve and is arranged and configured such that the returned compressed air during the regeneration phase can flow from the return pneumatic line via the electrically controlled valve and via the supply line and the air drying unit to the pneumatic exhaust line according to an electronic control signal.

[0009] According to the present invention, the electrically controlled valve is configured as a single and unique electrically controlled valve of the recirculation control unit, thus providing a cost-effective air handling unit specifically designed for electronically controlled compressors, which is constructed to include only one electrically controlled valve to control the regeneration phase.

[0010] Within the scope of this patent, the air handling unit does not provide pneumatic control over the compressed air supply unit (e.g., a compressor). Other systems further include a solenoid valve for controlling the supply of control signals to the speed controller. Removing this solenoid valve allows for cost optimization of the air handling unit.

[0011] The development scheme of the air handling unit of the first aspect of the present invention will be described below.

[0012] In a preferred development, the electrically controlled valve is configured as a single, unique electrically controlled valve within the entire air handling unit. Alternatively, in another development, the air handling unit includes other electrically controlled solenoid valves, but these other electrically controlled solenoid valves do not control the flow of compressed air returning from the supply port into the air handling unit.

[0013] In another preferred development, the electrically controlled valve is a 3 / 2-way solenoid valve, which is capable of operating in a non-energized and energized state according to an electrical control signal, particularly overcoming spring force. In the non-energized state, the return pneumatic line is interrupted, and in the energized state, the return pneumatic line fluidly connects the supply port to the air drying unit.

[0014] In another development, the supply line between the air drying unit and the supply port includes a one-way valve arranged and configured to prevent flow from the supply port through the supply line to the air drying unit. In this development, an electrically controlled valve is arranged at the return pneumatic line, which is bridging the one-way valve.

[0015] In another development, the vent valve is a pneumatically controlled dual-control valve, wherein a first pressure control input is fluidly connected to the input port of the air drying unit, and a second pressure control input is fluidly connected to the outlet port of an electronically controlled valve. Therefore, when the pressure values ​​at both the first and second pressure control inputs are higher than a predetermined pressure threshold, the vent valve operates with pressurized air exiting the air handling unit via the exhaust port. This predetermined pressure threshold can be the same or different for the two pressure control inputs.

[0016] In another development, the pneumatically controlled dual control valve is a 2 / 2-way valve having a relaxed state and an actuated state. In the relaxed state, the exhaust line between the input port and the exhaust port of the air drying unit is disconnected. In the actuated state, the exhaust line is available. The pneumatically controlled dual control valve is configured to change from the relaxed state to the actuated state when the corresponding pressure at the first pressure control input and the second pressure control input exceeds the corresponding pressure threshold.

[0017] In an alternative development, the vent valve includes a single pressure control input fluidly connected to the outlet port of the electronically controlled valve, and thus serving as the sole control pressure for the vent valve. In this development, only the pressure at the outlet port of the electronically controlled valve controls the vent valve. When the pressure at the outlet port exceeds a predetermined threshold, the vent valve operates with pressurized air exiting the air handling unit via the exhaust port. Once the pressure at the outlet port falls below the predetermined threshold, the vent valve changes its state, thereby closing the fluid communication between the inlet and outlet ports of the air drying unit.

[0018] In another embodiment, the air handling unit further includes a filling valve disposed between an inlet port and an input port of the air drying unit, and configured to allow compressed air to be supplied to the air drying unit when the compressed air pressure at the inlet port is higher than a predetermined input pressure threshold.

[0019] The second aspect of the invention is formed by an air management system, which includes an air handling unit according to the first aspect and a multi-loop protection valve unit, the multi-loop protection valve unit including: an input port connected to the supply port of the air handling unit; and a plurality of output ports capable of being connected to corresponding pneumatic units of a pneumatic system.

[0020] A multi-circuit protection valve unit is a valve unit arranged and configured to maintain a safe operating pressure in the complete circuit of a multi-circuit system (such as a braking system with multiple braking units or a suspension system with multiple suspension units) when one circuit of the multi-circuit system fails. In particular, a three-circuit or four-circuit protection valve is preferred.

[0021] According to a third aspect of the invention, a pneumatic system for a vehicle is described. The pneumatic system includes: an air handling unit according to a first aspect of the invention; an electronically controlled compressed air supply unit connected to the inlet port of the air handling unit and configured to supply compressed air to the inlet port; at least one pneumatic unit connected to the supply port of the air handling unit; and an electronic control unit connected signal-wise to an electronically controlled valve and to the electronically controlled compressed air supply unit, configured to control the operation of the electronically controlled valve by generating and providing electronically controlled signals and configured to control the operation of the compressed air supply unit.

[0022] Therefore, the third-order pneumatic system possesses the advantages of the first-order air handling unit of the present invention. The development scheme of the pneumatic system of the present invention will be described below.

[0023] In one development scheme, the pneumatic unit is a braking unit for supplying compressed air to the brakes, a suspension unit for supplying compressed air to the suspension, an inflation unit for supplying compressed air to the inflation port (particularly for tires), or any combination thereof.

[0024] In one development of the pneumatic system, the electronically controlled compressed air supply unit includes a compressor having a compressor input port for receiving air. The compressor is pneumatically connected to the inlet port and driven by an electronically controlled motor that is signal-connected to an electronic control unit.

[0025] In another development, the signal connections between the electronic control unit and the electronically controlled compressed air supply unit, as well as with the electronically controlled valves, are implemented via a Controller Area Network (CAN) bus. The CAN bus is a robust vehicle bus standard designed to allow microcontrollers and devices to communicate with each other's applications without a host computer. It is a message-based protocol, originally designed for multi-loop electrical wiring in automobiles to save copper, but it can also be used in many other environments. For each device, data in a frame is transmitted sequentially, but if more than one device is transmitting simultaneously, the highest priority device continues transmitting, while other devices fall behind. All devices receive frames, including the device currently transmitting.

[0026] The fourth aspect of the invention is formed by a vehicle, particularly a commercial vehicle, and more particularly an autonomous connected electric vehicle (AEC vehicle), which includes a pneumatic system according to the third aspect of the invention, wherein the pneumatic system includes one or more of a braking system, a suspension system, and a tire inflation system as pneumatic units.

[0027] It should be understood that the preferred embodiments of the present invention may also be any combination of the dependent claims or the above embodiments with the corresponding independent claims.

[0028] These and other aspects of the invention will be apparent from and illustrated by reference to the embodiments described below.

[0029] Embodiments of the invention are described below based on the accompanying drawings and in comparison with prior art, which is also partially shown. Prior art is not necessarily intended to represent embodiments to scale. The drawings are shown in schematic and / or slightly distorted forms where helpful for explanation. Reference is made to related prior art to supplement lessons learned that can be readily identified from the drawings. It should be remembered that many modifications and changes can be made to the form and details of the embodiments without departing from the general spirit of the invention. The features of the invention disclosed in the specification, drawings, and claims, whether individually or in any combination, may be essential for further development of the invention.

[0030] Furthermore, all combinations of at least two features disclosed in the specification, drawings, and / or claims fall within the scope of this invention. The general concept of this invention is not limited to the exact form or details of the preferred embodiments shown and described below, nor to any object that would be limited compared to the object claimed in the claims. Values ​​within the specified limits are also disclosed as limits for the specified design scope and are therefore arbitrarily applicable and claimable. Attached Figure Description

[0031] As shown in the following figures:

[0032] Figure 1 This is a schematic block diagram of a comparative example of a pneumatic system including an air handling unit configured to provide a control pressure signal to a speed controller in order to pneumatically control the operation of an air compressor.

[0033] Figure 2 This is a schematic block diagram of a first embodiment of a pneumatic system including an air handling unit according to the present invention;

[0034] Figure 3 This is a schematic block diagram of a second embodiment of a pneumatic system including an air handling unit according to the present invention;

[0035] Figure 4 It is a schematic block diagram of an air management unit including the processing unit and the multi-loop protection valve unit according to the present invention;

[0036] Figure 5 This is a schematic block diagram of a vehicle that includes a pneumatic system comprising air handling according to the invention. Detailed Implementation

[0037] Figure 1 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 This includes pneumatic diagrams, which include figure symbols and functional symbols known to those skilled in the art. The figure symbols and functional symbols shall be interpreted in accordance with standards DIN 74253 and / or DIN ISO 1219.

[0038] Figure 1A schematic block diagram illustrating a comparative example of a pneumatic system 2000 is shown. The pneumatic system 2000 includes an air handling unit 200 configured to provide a control pressure signal CP to a governor 136 via a governor port 4 for pneumatically controlling the operation of an air compressor 132, which is specifically a pneumatically controlled air compressor, although it is currently also used in conjunction with an electrically controlled air compressor. The air compressor 132 operates via a motor 134 and is configured to receive ambient air via an input port 0 of the compressor 132 and to supply compressed air 102 to an inlet port 1 of the air handling unit 200. The air handling unit includes an air drying unit 104, which is arranged and configured to dry the received compressed air 102 in a so-called drying stage D, and to supply the dried compressed air to a supply line 115, which connects the air drying unit to a supply port 2 of the air handling unit 200. Dry compressed air is supplied to the pneumatic unit 130 of the pneumatic system 2000, such as, for example, the braking unit or suspension unit of a vehicle. The air drying unit 104 is also capable of operating in a so-called regeneration phase, in which dry compressed air is supplied by the pneumatic unit 138 and flows from the supply port 2 via a return control unit 118, which includes two electrically controlled solenoid valves 121 and 130. The return control unit 118 has: an input port I, which connects to the supply line near the supply port 2; and an output port O, which connects to the supply line 115 near the air drying unit. This connection is preferably achieved via a check valve and / or throttle valve unit 128. Therefore, the return control unit is advantageously arranged to bypass the check valve 126 in the supply line, and controls the return 122 of the dried air via the return line 116 by means of a solenoid valve 121, the check valve 126 being arranged to prevent the flow of return air from the supply port 2 via the supply line 115 to the air drying unit 104. The solenoid valve 130 controls the pneumatic connection between the input port I and the governor port 4 to pneumatically control the governor 136. For example, the electronic control unit 140 provides electrical signals S and G to control the operation of solenoid valves 121 and 130 respectively. The electrical signal G controls the solenoid valve 130, which is a 3 / 2-way solenoid valve with two states and three ports. When the electrical signal G is received, the solenoid valve 130 is energized, and the pneumatic connection between the input port I and the governor port 4 is achieved by connecting ports z1 and z2 of the solenoid valve 130. This provides the pneumatic control pressure signal CP to the speed controller 136.An electrical signal S is supplied to solenoid valve 121 (also a 3 / 2-way solenoid valve) to open the pneumatic connection between input port I and output port O via ports x1 and x2 of solenoid valve 121. Solenoid valve 121 bridging check valve 126 in supply line 115 allows for the return of dried compressed air from pneumatic unit 138 to air drying unit via supply port 2 during the regeneration phase. Output port O of return control unit 118 and input port 106 of air drying unit are connected to a pneumatically controlled dual control valve 109, which acts as a vent valve or exhaust valve. A first pressure control input 109.1 is fluidly connected to input port 106 of air drying unit 104, and a second pressure control input 108.2 is fluidly connected to outlet port O of return control unit. When the pressure values ​​at the first pressure control input 109.1 and the second pressure control input 109.2 are both higher than their respective predetermined values ​​(the same or different), ports y1 and y2 of the controlled dual control valve 109 are connected, and exhaust air or discharge air 111 used to regenerate the desiccant material of the air drying unit 104 during the regeneration phase is discharged to the exhaust port 3 via the exhaust line 113. The pneumatic system 2000 may also include a charging valve 124 disposed between the inlet port 1 and the input port 106 of the air drying unit 104.

[0039] Figure 2 A schematic block diagram of a first embodiment of a pneumatic system 1000 including an air handling unit 100 according to the invention is shown. The air handling unit 100 is adapted to supply compressed air 108 to a supply port 2, particularly for use in a pneumatic system including a pneumatic unit 138 pneumatically connected to the supply port 2. Preferably, the pneumatic system 1000 is suitable for vehicles (see...). Figure 4(1100 in the text). The air handling unit 100 includes an inlet port 1 for receiving compressed air 102 from a compressed air source, particularly an electronically controlled compressed air source 101. The air handling unit also includes an air drying unit 104 having: an input port 106 pneumatically connected to the inlet port 1 and configured to dry the received compressed air 102; and a supply line 115 configured to exchange (particularly supply) dried compressed air 108 between the air drying unit 104 and the supply port 2. The air handling unit also includes a return pneumatic line 116 configured to exchange compressed air 108 from the supply port 2 to, particularly to, the air drying unit 104, particularly from the supply line 115 to the air drying unit 104. An electrically controlled valve 120 is arranged between a first section 116.1 and a second section 116.2 of the return pneumatic line. The first section 116.1 is connected to the supply line 115 near the supply port 2, and the second section 116.2 is connected to the supply line 115 near the air drying unit 105. Furthermore, a vent valve 110 is configured to control the flow of exhaust air or vented air 111 via the pneumatic exhaust line 113. The pneumatic exhaust line 113 pneumatically connects the input port 106 of the air drying unit 104 to the outside 114 via the exhaust port 3 and the vent valve 110.

[0040] In the air drying stage D, dried compressed air 108 is supplied from the air drying unit 104 to the supply port 2 via the supply line 115. In the regeneration stage R, the returned compressed air 108 returns from the supply port 2 to the air drying unit 104 via the return pneumatic line 116. The return control unit 118 includes an electrically controlled valve 120 and is arranged and configured such that the dried compressed air returned during the regeneration stage R can flow 122 via the return line 116 according to an electronically controlled signal, i.e., from the first section 116.1 of the return pneumatic line, via the electrically controlled valve 120, via the second section 116.2 of the return line, to the section 115.1 of the supply line near the air drying unit 104, to the air drying unit 104, and then as exhaust air or discharge air 111 to the pneumatic exhaust line 113.

[0041] In the air handling unit, with Figure 1In contrast, the comparative example shown has the electronically controlled valve 120 configured as the single and only electronically controlled valve of the recirculation control unit 118. Furthermore, in this particular air handling unit 100, the electronically controlled valve 120 is configured as the single and only electronically controlled valve of the air handling unit 100. However, in other exemplary air handling units, additional electronically controlled valves that do not control the recirculation of compressed air from supply port 2 are provided, and these additional electronically controlled valves are therefore not part of the recirculation control unit 118.

[0042] Furthermore, in the air handling unit 100, the supply line 115 between the air drying unit 104 and the supply port 2 includes a one-way valve or check valve 126, which is arranged and configured to prevent flow from the supply port 2 through the supply line 115 to the air drying unit 100. Therefore, an electrically controlled valve 120 is arranged at the return pneumatic line 116 bridging the one-way valve 126.

[0043] The pneumatic system 1000 includes an electronically controlled compressed air source 101, such as an electronically controlled compressor, and... Figure 1 Unlike the pneumatically controlled compressor 132, the electronically controlled compressed air source 101 does not require pneumatic control lines for the speed controller 136. The electronically controlled compressor is electrically controlled by an electronic control unit 140, which also provides an electrical control signal S to the return control unit. Figure 1 In the exemplary air handling unit 100, the electronically controlled compressor 101 and the electronically controlled valve 120 are connected to the electronic control unit 140 via the CAN bus 142.

[0044] Figure 3 A schematic description of a pneumatic circuit of a second embodiment of a pneumatic system 1000 including an air handling unit 100 according to the invention is shown. Reference is made herein. Figure 2 and Figure 3 The discussion includes examples. Features with the same or similar functions will be represented using the same reference numerals. Figure 3 The pneumatic system 1000 includes an electronically controlled compressor 103, which operates via a motor M connected to an electronic control unit 140 via a CAN bus 142. A solenoid valve 121 is the only electrically controlled valve 120 of the return control unit 118 and is arranged to control (e.g., enable or disable) the pneumatic connection of the return line 116 between the input port I and the output port O of the return control unit 118 according to an electronic control signal S and against a spring force F. The electrically controlled valve 120 is located... Figure 3In the air handling unit 100, there is a 3 / 2-way solenoid valve 121, which can overcome the spring force F according to the electronic control signal S and operate in the non-energized state NS and the energized state ES. In the non-energized state NS, the return pneumatic line 116 is interrupted. In the energized state ES, the return pneumatic line 116 connects the supply port 2 to the air drying unit 104 via the ports x1 and x2 of the 3 / 2-way solenoid valve 121 to the fluid ground (i.e., pneumatic ground).

[0045] Supply line 115 includes a one-way valve 126 between air drying unit 104 and supply port 2. The one-way valve 126 is arranged and configured to prevent flow from supply port 2 through supply line 115 to air drying unit 104. A 3 / 2-way solenoid valve 121 is arranged at the return pneumatic line 116 bridging the one-way valve 126.

[0046] exist Figure 3 In the air handling unit 100, the pneumatically controlled dual control valve 109 is a 2 / 2-way valve capable of operating in a relaxed state RS and an actuated state AS. In the relaxed state RS, the exhaust line 113 between the input port 106 and the exhaust port 3 of the air drying unit 104 is disconnected. In the actuated state AS, the exhaust line 113 is available, i.e., pneumatically connected to the exhaust port 3. The pneumatically controlled dual control valve 109 is configured to change from the relaxed state RS to the actuated state when the corresponding pressures P1 and P2 at the first pressure control input 109.1 and the second pressure control input 109.2 exceed the corresponding pressure thresholds, which may be the same for the two ports, but are not necessarily the same. Figure 1 In this configuration, the first pressure control input terminal 109.1 is connected to the exhaust line 113. The second pressure control input terminal is connected to the output port O of the return control unit 118.

[0047] In another development (not shown), the vent valve 109 includes a single pressure control input 109.2 which is fluidly connected to the outlet port x2 of the electro-hydraulic valve 120, i.e., fluidly connected to the outlet port O of the return control unit 118, and is the only control pressure for the vent valve 109.

[0048] also, Figure 3 The air handling unit 100 may optionally further include an input charge valve 124, which is arranged between the inlet port 1 and the input port 106 of the air drying unit 104 and is configured to allow compressed air 102 to be supplied to the air drying unit 104 when the compressed air pressure value P3 at the inlet port 1 is higher than a predetermined input pressure threshold Pt.

[0049] Figure 4 A schematic block diagram of an embodiment of an air management system 500 including an air handling unit 100 and a multi-loop protection valve unit 550 according to the present invention is shown. For a description of the air handling unit 100, please refer to... Figure 3 The air handling unit optionally further includes a charge valve 130 connected to an auxiliary output port 3.1, which functions as a safety valve. This charge valve allows compressed air to flow through the auxiliary output port 3.1 whenever the pressure at the input port of the air drying unit exceeds a safety threshold Ps. Furthermore, the air handling unit includes an auxiliary inlet port 1.1 bridging the charge valve disposed between the inlet port 1 and the air drying unit. The air management system 500 further includes a multi-loop protection valve (MCPV) unit 550, particularly a four-loop protection valve unit, having: an input port 501 connected to the supply port 2 of the air handling unit; and multiple output ports, in this case four ports 21, 22, 23, and 24, which are protected by the multi-loop protection valve unit 550 to prevent failure of one of the ports. For example, all four ports 21, 22, 23, and 24 can be connected to a four-loop air braking system. Dry compressed air supplied by the air handling unit via supply port 2 is passed through the check valve of the MCPV unit 550 into the four circuits of the system. Simultaneously, pressure builds up below the charging valve, which opens after reaching the corresponding set opening pressure (protection pressure). The compressed air then flows through ports 21 and 22, for example, to the air storage sections of the first and second circuits of the service braking system, and through ports 23 and 24 into the third and fourth circuits, respectively. For example, the third circuit supplies compressed air to the vehicle's (truck's) emergency parking brake system and optionally to the trailer supply line, while the fourth circuit supplies compressed air to auxiliary systems.

[0050] For example, if one of the service braking systems (e.g., loop 1 connected to port 23) fails, air flows from the other three loops into the faulty loop until the dynamic valve closing pressure is reached. If the air in loops 2, 3, or 4 is depleted, refilling will occur to the set opening pressure level of the faulty loop. If another loop fails, pressure protection is applied to the intact loops in the same manner.

[0051] The air management system may further include: an output port 25 directly connected to the supply port 2; and an inflation port 26 actuated by a manually operable valve 502. The air management system further includes a pressure sensing unit 504, which is signal-connected to the MCPV unit 550 for determining the pressure at predetermined output ports (e.g., ports 21 and 22). The pressure sensing unit 504 is signal-connected to the electronic control unit 140.

[0052] Figure 5 The diagram shows a schematic block diagram of a vehicle 1100, which includes a pneumatic system 1000. The pneumatic system 1000 includes an air handling unit 100 or an air management system 500 according to the present invention, as shown in reference respectively. Figure 2 and Figure 3 as well as Figure 4 As explained, the electronically controlled compressor 101 is connected to the air handling unit 100 or the air management system 500. The compressor 101 and the air handling unit 100 are connected to the electronic control unit 140 via a dedicated signal connection (e.g., CAN bus 142). Supply port 2 (or the output port of the air management system 500, e.g., 21, 22) is connected to an air storage unit 150, which is configured to store dry compressed air and supply said stored dry compressed air to one or more pneumatic units of the pneumatic system 1000. Figure 5 The braking unit 138.1 of the braking system, the suspension unit 138.2 of the suspension system, and the tire inflation unit 138.3 of the tire inflation system are shown as pneumatic units.

[0053] Those skilled in the art can understand and implement other variations of the disclosed embodiments by studying the accompanying drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims.

[0054] In the claims, the word “comprising” does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite articles “a” or “an” do not exclude plural.

[0055] A single unit or device can perform the functions of several items listed in the claims. The fact that certain measures are listed only in mutually different dependent claims does not mean that a combination of these measures cannot be used for a beneficial purpose.

[0056] No reference numerals in the claims should be construed as limiting the scope.

[0057] List of reference numerals (part of the instruction manual)

[0058] 0. Input port of compressed air source / compressor

[0059] 1. Inlet port of the air handling unit

[0060] 1.1 Auxiliary Entry Port

[0061] 2. Air handling unit supply port

[0062] 3. Exhaust ports of the air handling unit

[0063] 3.1 Auxiliary Output Port

[0064] 4. Comparison of the speed controller ports in the example

[0065] Output port of 21 multi-loop protection valve unit

[0066] Output port of 22 multi-loop protection valve unit

[0067] 23 Output ports of multi-loop protection valve unit

[0068] Output ports of 24 multi-loop protection valve unit

[0069] 25 Output ports of the air management system

[0070] 26. Air filling port of the air management system

[0071] 200 Air handling unit for pneumatic control of speed controller

[0072] 100 air handling units

[0073] 101 Electrically Controlled Compressed Air Supply Unit

[0074] 103 Electronically Controlled Compressed Air Supply Unit Compressor

[0075] 102 Compressed Air

[0076] 104 Air Drying Unit

[0077] Input port of 106 air drying unit

[0078] 108 Dry compressed air

[0079] 109 Pneumatically Controlled Dual Control Valve

[0080] 109.1 First pressure control input terminal of dual control valve

[0081] 109.2 Second pressure control input terminal of dual control valve

[0082] 110 air release valve

[0083] 111 Exhaust Air / Discharge Air

[0084] 113 Exhaust Pipe

[0085] 114 External side of the air handling unit

[0086] 115 Supply Line

[0087] 115.1 Segmentation of Supply Pipelines

[0088] 116 Return Pipeline

[0089] 116.1 Return to the first section of the pipeline

[0090] 116.2 Second section of the return pipeline

[0091] 118 Reflux Control Unit

[0092] 120 Electric Control Valve

[0093] 121 3 / 2-way solenoid valve

[0094] 122 Dry air recirculation

[0095] 124 Input filling valve

[0096] 126 One-way valve / Check valve

[0097] 128 Check Valve and / or Throttling Valve Unit

[0098] 130 3 / 2-way solenoid valve

[0099] 132 Pneumatically Controlled Compressor

[0100] 134 motor

[0101] 136 speed controller

[0102] 138 pneumatic units

[0103] 138.1 Braking Unit

[0104] 138.2 Suspension Unit

[0105] 138.3 Inflation Unit

[0106] 140 Electronic Control Unit

[0107] 142 CAN bus

[0108] 150 Air Storage Department

[0109] 500 Air Management System

[0110] Input port of 501 multi-loop protection valve unit

[0111] 502 Manually Operable Valve

[0112] 504 Pressure Sensing Unit

[0113] 550 Multi-Circuit Protection Valve Unit

[0114] 1000 Pneumatic System

[0115] 1100 vehicles

[0116] 2000 pneumatic system with air handling unit for pneumatic control of speed controller

[0117] AS vent valve / dual control valve actuation status

[0118] RS vent valve / dual control valve relaxation state

[0119] CP control pressure signal

[0120] Flow during the drying stage (D)

[0121] ES solenoid valve energization status

[0122] F Spring force

[0123] Electrical control signal of G solenoid valve 130

[0124] I. Input port of the reflux control unit

[0125] M motor

[0126] NS solenoid valve in de-energized state

[0127] Output port of O-reflow control unit

[0128] The first pressure at the first control input terminal of the P1 dual control valve

[0129] The second pressure at the first control input of the P2 dual control valve

[0130] Compressed air pressure value at P3 input port

[0131] Pt Input pressure threshold

[0132] Ps security threshold

[0133] Electrical control signal of S-sonic valve 121

[0134] port of x1 solenoid valve 121

[0135] Port of x2 solenoid valve 121

[0136] y1 Port of dual control valve

[0137] y2 Port of dual control valve

[0138] port of z1 solenoid valve 130

[0139] port of z2 solenoid valve 130

Claims

1. An air handling unit (100) for supplying compressed air to a supply port (2), the air handling unit (100) comprising: - Inlet port (1), which is used to receive compressed air (102); - An air drying unit (104) having an input port (106) pneumatically connected to the inlet port (1) and configured to dry received compressed air (102), and - Supply line (115) and return pneumatic lines (116, 116.1, 116.2), the supply line (115) being configured to exchange dried compressed air (108) between the air drying unit (104) and the supply port (2), the return pneumatic lines (116, 116.1, 116.2) being configured to exchange the compressed air (108) from the supply port (2) back to the air drying unit (104), wherein - An electrically controlled valve (120) is arranged between the first section (116.1) of the return pneumatic line connected to the supply port (2) and the second section (116.2) of the return pneumatic line connected to the air drying unit (104), and - The vent valve (110) is configured to control the flow of exhaust air (111) via a pneumatic exhaust line (113), wherein the pneumatic exhaust line (113) pneumatically connects the input port (106) of the air drying unit (104) to the outside (114) via an exhaust port (3); and wherein - In the air drying stage (D), dry compressed air (108) is supplied from the air drying unit (104) to the supply port (2) via the supply line (115), and - In the regeneration stage (R), the returned compressed air (108) returns from the supply port (2) to the air drying unit (104) via the return pneumatic line (116), wherein - The return control unit (118) includes the electronically controlled valve (120) and is arranged and configured to enable the compressed air returned during the regeneration phase (R) to flow (122) from the return pneumatic line (116) via the electronically controlled valve (120) and via the supply line (115) and the air drying unit (104) to the pneumatic exhaust line (113) according to the electronically controlled signal (S). Its features - The solenoid valve (120) is configured as the single and only solenoid valve of the reflux control unit (118).

2. The air handling unit (100) according to claim 1, wherein, The electrically controlled valve (120) is configured as the single and only electrically controlled valve of the air handling unit (100).

3. The air handling unit (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The electrically controlled valve (120) is a 3 / 2-way solenoid valve (121) capable of operating under the spring force (F) in accordance with the electrically controlled signal (S): - Non-energized state (NS), in which the return pneumatic line (116) is interrupted, and - Power-on state (ES), in which the return pneumatic line (116) fluidly connects the supply port (2) to the air drying unit (104).

4. The air handling unit (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The supply line (115) between the air drying unit (104) and the supply port (2) includes a one-way valve (126) arranged and configured to prevent flow from the supply port (2) through the supply line (115) to the air drying unit (104), and wherein the electrically controlled valve (120) is arranged at the return pneumatic line (116) bridging the one-way valve (126).

5. The air handling unit (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The vent valve (110) is a pneumatically controlled dual control valve (109), wherein a first pressure control input (109.1) is fluidly connected to the input port (106) of the air drying unit (104), and a second pressure control input (109.2) is fluidly connected to the outlet port (x2) of the electrically controlled valve (120).

6. The air handling unit (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The vent valve (110) includes a single pressure control input (109.2) which is fluidly connected to the outlet port (x2) of the electrically controlled valve (120) and is the sole control pressure of the vent valve (110).

7. The air handling unit (100) according to claim 5, wherein, The pneumatically controlled dual control valve (109) is a 2 / 2-way valve having a relaxed state (RS) and an actuated state (AS). In the relaxed state, the pneumatic exhaust line (113) between the input port (106) of the air drying unit (104) and the exhaust port (3) is disconnected. In the actuated state, the pneumatic exhaust line (113) is pneumatically connected to the exhaust port (3). The pneumatically controlled dual control valve (109) is configured to change from the relaxed state (RS) to the actuated state when the corresponding pressure amounts (P1, P2) at the first pressure control input (109.1) and the second pressure control input (109.2) are higher than the corresponding pressure threshold amounts.

8. The air handling unit (100) according to claim 1 or 2 further includes an input charging valve (124) disposed between the inlet port (1) and the input port (106) of the air drying unit (104), and the input charging valve (124) is configured to allow the supply of compressed air (102) to the air drying unit (104) when the compressed air pressure value (P3) at the inlet port (1) is higher than a predetermined input pressure threshold amount (Pt).

9. The air handling unit (100) according to claim 1, wherein, The air handling unit (100) is used in a pneumatic system (1000) having a pneumatic unit (138) pneumatically connected to a supply port (2).

10. The air handling unit (100) according to claim 9, wherein, The pneumatic system (1000) is applicable to the vehicle (1100).

11. The air handling unit (100) according to claim 1, wherein, The inlet port (1) is used to receive compressed air (102) from the electronically controlled compressed air supply unit (101).

12. The air handling unit (100) according to claim 1, wherein, The supply line (115) is configured to supply dry compressed air (108) between the air drying unit (104) and the supply port (2).

13. The air handling unit (100) according to claim 1, wherein, The return pneumatic lines (116, 116.1, 116.2) are configured to return compressed air (108) from the supply port (2) to the air drying unit (104).

14. The air handling unit (100) according to claim 1, wherein, The return pneumatic lines (116, 116.1, 116.2) are configured to exchange compressed air (108) from the supply port (2) from the supply line (115) to the air drying unit (104).

15. An air management system (500), comprising: - The air handling unit (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 14, and - A multi-loop protection valve unit (550) having: an input port (501) connected to the supply port (2) of the air handling unit; and a plurality of output ports (21, 23, 23, 24) capable of being connected to a corresponding pneumatic unit (138) of the pneumatic system (1000).

16. A pneumatic system (1000) for a vehicle (1100), comprising: - An air handling unit (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 14 or an air management system (500) according to claim 15. - An electronically controlled compressed air supply unit (101) is connected to the inlet port (1) of the air handling unit and is configured to supply compressed air; - At least one pneumatic unit (138), said at least one pneumatic unit (138) being connected to the supply port (2) of the air handling unit (100) or being connected to at least one of the output ports (21, 22, 23, 24) of the multi-loop protection valve unit (550); - An electronic control unit (140) is connected to the electronically controlled valve (120) and the electronically controlled compressed air supply unit in a signal manner, and the electronic control unit (140) is configured to control the operation of the electronically controlled valve (120) by generating and providing electronic control signals (S), and is configured to control the operation of the electronically controlled compressed air supply unit (101).

17. The pneumatic system (1000) according to claim 16, wherein, The electronically controlled compressed air supply unit (101) includes a compressor (103) having a compressor input port (0) for receiving air. The compressor (103) is pneumatically connected to the inlet port (1) and driven by an electronically controlled motor (M), which is connected to the electronic control unit (140) in a signal manner.

18. The pneumatic system (1000) according to claim 16 or 17, wherein, The signal connection between the electronic control unit (140), the electronically controlled compressed air supply unit (101), and the electronically controlled valve (120) is achieved through a controller local area network bus (142).

19. A vehicle (1100) comprising a pneumatic system according to any one of claims 16 to 18.

20. The vehicle (1100) according to claim 19, wherein, The vehicle (1100) is a commercial vehicle.

21. The vehicle (1100) according to claim 19, wherein, The pneumatic system includes one or more of the following as pneumatic units (138): a braking unit (138.1), a suspension unit (138.2), and a tire inflation unit (138.3): a braking unit (138.1), a suspension unit (138.2), and a tire inflation unit (138.3): a tire inflation unit (138).

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