Vehicle air supply system, vehicle and vehicle air supply control method

Abstract

The invention discloses a vehicle air supply system, a vehicle and a vehicle air supply control method. The vehicle air supply system comprises an air compressor assembly; the air supply unit control assembly is provided with at least two air source ends; the air compressor assembly is communicated with the air supply unit control assembly, and the air supply unit control assembly can switch states to enable the air compressor assembly to provide at least two air supply modes for the at least two air source ends. The function of multiple air supply modes can be achieved through one air compressor assembly, the structure is simple, and cost is low.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application belongs to the field of vehicles, specifically relating to a vehicle air supply system, a vehicle, and a vehicle air supply control method. Background Technology

[0002] In the existing technology, there are many air-consuming devices in vehicles, but a general air compressor can only provide compressed gas in one direction. Therefore, an air supply system needs to be set up for each air-consuming device, which makes the air supply system structure complex and makes it impossible to achieve multiple air supply functions with a single air compressor assembly. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The purpose of this application is to provide a new technical solution for a vehicle air supply system, a vehicle, and a vehicle air supply control method.

[0004] According to a first aspect of the present application, a vehicle air supply system is provided, comprising: an air compressor assembly; an air supply unit control assembly having at least two air source terminals; the air compressor assembly being connected to the air supply unit control assembly, and the air supply unit control assembly being capable of switching states to enable the air compressor assembly to provide at least two air supply methods to at least two of the air source terminals.

[0005] Optionally, the gas source end includes a first gas source end, a second gas source end, a positive pressure gas source end, and a negative pressure gas source end; the gas supply unit control assembly can switch states to interchange the air inlet and outlet directions between the first gas source end and the second gas source end, or supply gas from the first gas source end to the positive pressure gas source end, or supply gas from the second gas source end to the positive pressure gas source end, or supply gas from the negative pressure gas source end to the positive pressure gas source end, or supply compressed atmospheric air to the positive pressure gas source end.

[0006] Optionally, the air supply unit control assembly is connected to the air compressor assembly via a first air passage and a second air passage; the air supply unit control assembly includes a first state and a second state. In the first state, gas from the first air source reaches the second air source via the first air passage, the air compressor assembly, and the second air passage. In the second state, gas from the second air source reaches the first air source via the first air passage, the air compressor assembly, and the second air passage.

[0007] Optionally, the air compressor assembly includes a first air inlet, an air compressor, and a first air outlet. The first air inlet is connected to the atmosphere, and the first air outlet is connected to a second air passage. A first control valve is provided between the first air inlet and the air compressor. The air supply unit control assembly also includes a third state in which the first control valve is open, and the gas from the first air inlet is supplied to the positive pressure air source via the air compressor, the first air outlet, and the second air passage.

[0008] Optionally, a first branch is provided between the air compressor and the first outlet, and the first branch is provided with a gas drying unit; when the required pressure of the positive pressure gas source is higher than the first threshold, the air compressor assembly is in a fourth state, in which gas from the first inlet reaches the first outlet via the air compressor and the first branch.

[0009] Optionally, a second branch is provided between the air compressor and the first outlet end; when the required pressure of the positive pressure air source end is lower than the first threshold, the air compressor assembly is in a fifth state. In the fifth state, the gas from the first inlet end reaches the first outlet end through the air compressor and the second branch.

[0010] Optionally, the air compressor assembly further includes a second air outlet, which is connected to the atmosphere. A third control valve is provided between the second air outlet and the air compressor. The air compressor assembly includes a sixth state in which the third control valve is open. The air supply unit control assembly includes a seventh state in which gas from the first air source is discharged through the second air path, the first branch path, and the second air outlet.

[0011] Alternatively, in the sixth state, the gas supply unit control assembly further includes an eighth state, in which gas from the second gas source is discharged through the second gas path, the first branch path, and the second gas outlet.

[0012] Optionally, the air compressor assembly further includes a second air outlet and an air compressor. The second air outlet is connected to the atmosphere. A third control valve is provided between the second air outlet and the air compressor. The air supply unit control assembly further includes a negative pressure air source. The air supply unit control assembly includes a ninth state. In the ninth state, the third control valve is opened, and gas from the negative pressure air source is discharged through the first air path, the air compressor assembly, and the second air outlet, so that the negative pressure air source provides negative pressure.

[0013] According to a second aspect of this application, a vehicle is also provided, the vehicle including a vehicle air supply system as described in any of the preceding claims.

[0014] According to a third aspect of this application, a vehicle air supply control method is also provided for controlling the vehicle as described above, comprising:

[0015] An air supply electronic control unit controls the vehicle to switch states, enabling the air compressor assembly to provide different air supply methods to the first air-consuming device and the second air-consuming device.

[0016] The first gas-using device is connected to the first gas source, and the second gas-using device is connected to the second gas source.

[0017] Alternatively, the vehicle air supply control method may further include:

[0018] The air supply electronic control unit controls the vehicle to provide a positive pressure air source to the positive pressure device. When the pressure required by the positive pressure device is greater than a first threshold, the positive pressure air source is controlled to flow through the gas drying unit. When the pressure required by the positive pressure device is less than the first threshold, the positive pressure air source is controlled not to flow through the gas drying unit.

[0019] Alternatively, the vehicle air supply control method may further include: the air supply electronic control unit also controls the gas in the first air-using device or the second air-using device to flow through the gas drying unit and then be discharged.

[0020] The technical advantage of this application is that only one air compressor assembly is needed to provide gas power. The state is switched by controlling the opening and closing of the valves in the assembly through the air supply unit, providing different air supply methods for different air source ends, realizing multiple functions, with simple structure and low cost.

[0021] Other features and advantages of this application will become clear from the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0022] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the present application and, together with their description, serve to explain the principles of the present application.

[0023] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the vehicle air supply system according to an embodiment of this application;

[0024] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the air compressor assembly according to an embodiment of this application;

[0025] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the working principle of the gas supply unit control assembly according to an embodiment of this application;

[0026] Figure 4 This is a control principle diagram of the vehicle air supply system according to an embodiment of this application.

[0027] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached drawings: 1. Air compressor assembly; 1a. First control valve; 1b. Air compressor; 1c. Drive motor; 1d. Second control valve; 1e. Gas drying unit; 1f. Third control valve; 1g. Second air inlet; 1h. First air outlet; 1i. First air inlet; 1j. Second air outlet; 1k. First branch; 1L. Second branch; 2. Air supply unit control assembly; 2a. Air supply electronic control unit; 2b. Fourth control valve; 2c. Fifth control valve; 2d. Sixth control valve; 2e. Seventh control valve; 2f. Humidity sensor; 2g. Pressure sensor; 2h. Third air outlet; 2i. Third air inlet; 2j. Positive pressure air source; 2k. First air source; 2L. Second air source; 2m. Negative pressure air source; 3. Positive pressure device; 4. First air consumption device; 5. Second air consumption device; 6. Negative pressure device; 7. First air path; 8. Second air path. Detailed Implementation

[0028] Various exemplary embodiments of the present application will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that, unless otherwise specifically stated, the relative arrangement, numerical expressions, and values ​​of the components and steps set forth in these embodiments do not limit the scope of the present application.

[0029] The following description of at least one exemplary embodiment is merely illustrative and is in no way intended to limit the scope of this application and its application or use.

[0030] Techniques, methods, and equipment known to those skilled in the art may not be discussed in detail, but where appropriate, such techniques, methods, and equipment should be considered part of the specification.

[0031] In all the examples shown and discussed herein, any specific values ​​should be interpreted as merely exemplary and not as limitations. Therefore, other examples of exemplary embodiments may have different values.

[0032] It should be noted that similar labels and letters in the following figures indicate similar items; therefore, once an item is defined in one figure, it does not need to be discussed further in subsequent figures.

[0033] like Figure 1As shown, the vehicle air supply system provided in this application includes two modules: an air compressor assembly 1 and an air supply unit control assembly 2. Both modules are represented by dashed lines. The modular design allows for easy replacement of either the air compressor assembly 1 or the air supply unit control assembly 2 in case of system failure, improving maintenance efficiency. The air supply unit control assembly 2 has at least two air source terminals. The air supply unit control assembly 2 is connected to the air compressor assembly 1 and can switch states to allow the air compressor assembly 1 to provide at least two air supply methods to the at least two air source terminals.

[0034] More specifically, in this embodiment, the air supply unit control assembly 2 is provided with four air source terminals, including a first air source terminal 2k, a second air source terminal 2L, a positive pressure air source terminal 2j, and a negative pressure air source terminal 2m. The number of air source terminals can be increased or decreased as needed, but at least any two of the above four air source terminals must exist. The air pressure provided by each air source terminal may not be the same.

[0035] Regarding the air supply method, the air supply unit control assembly 2 can switch states to allow the air compressor assembly 1 to provide air at a first pressure to the first air source 2K and a second pressure to the second air source 2L, creating positive pressure at the positive pressure air source 2j and negative pressure at the negative pressure air source 2m, or to interchange the air inlet and outlet directions between the first air source 2K and the second air source 2L, or to supply air from the first air source 2K to the positive pressure air source 2j, or from the second air source 2L to the positive pressure air source 2j, or from the negative pressure air source 2m to the positive pressure air source 2j, or to supply compressed atmospheric air to the positive pressure air source 2j. The air supply unit control assembly 2 can be configured to supply air to the positive pressure air source 2j via methods such as... Figure 3 The four two-position two-way control valves shown are used to switch the state. In other embodiments, other types of control valves, such as two-position three-way valves and four-way valves, can also be used to switch the state.

[0036] For example, when the first control valve 1a is open, the drive motor 1c drives the air compressor 1b to compress the gas in the atmosphere, which is then supplied to the positive pressure gas source terminal 2j via the second control valve 1d, the first branch 1k, and the second gas line 8. When the first control valve 1a and the fourth control valve 2b are open, the drive motor 1c drives the air compressor 1b to compress the gas in the atmosphere, which is then supplied to the first gas source terminal 2K with a first pressure via the second control valve 1d, the first branch 1k, the second gas line 8, and the fourth control valve 2b. When the first control valve 1a and the fifth control valve 2c are open, the drive motor 1c drives the air compressor 1b to compress the gas in the atmosphere, which is then supplied to the second gas source terminal 2L with a second pressure via the second control valve 1d, the first branch 1k, the second gas line 8, and the fifth control valve 2c. When the third control valve 1f is opened, the drive motor 1c drives the air compressor 1b to work. The gas from the negative pressure gas source end 2m enters the air compressor 1b through the first gas passage 7, and then the air compressor 1b discharges the gas to the atmosphere through the third control valve 1f, thereby forming a negative pressure at the negative pressure gas source end 2m. If the air pressure at the first air source end 2K is higher than the air pressure at the positive pressure air source end 2j, the fourth control valve 2b can be opened, and the drive motor 1c will not work. At this time, the first air source end 2K supplies air to the positive pressure air source end 2j. Similarly, if the air pressure at the second air source end 2L is higher than the air pressure at the positive pressure air source end 2j, the fifth control valve 2c can be opened, and the drive motor 1c will not work. At this time, the second air source end 2L supplies air to the positive pressure air source end 2j. Similarly, if the air pressure at the negative pressure air source end 2m is higher than the atmospheric pressure, the drive motor 1c can be activated to draw the gas from the negative pressure air source end 2m to the positive pressure air source end 2j, thus supplying air from the negative pressure air source end 2m to the positive pressure air source end 2j. This is more energy-efficient than drawing gas from the atmosphere to supply air to the positive pressure air source end 2j, and the gas at the negative pressure air source end 2m is also drier and safer than the gas in the atmosphere.

[0037] like Figure 2 As shown, in each air compressor assembly 1, only one drive motor 1c is used to drive one air compressor 1b, which can realize multiple air supply modes and achieve functional diversification of the entire vehicle air supply system.

[0038] like Figure 1As shown, the air supply unit control assembly 2 is connected to the air compressor assembly 1 via a first air passage 7 and a second air passage 8. The air supply unit control assembly 2 includes a first air source end 2k and a second air source end 2L. The air supply unit control assembly 2 includes a first state and a second state. In the first state, gas from the first air source end 2k passes through the first air passage 7, the air compressor assembly 1, and the second air passage 8 to reach the second air source end 2L. In the second state, gas from the second air source end 2L passes through the first air passage 7, the air compressor assembly 1, and the second air passage 8 to reach the first air source end 2k. Therefore, the air inlet and outlet directions between the first air source end 2k and the second air source end 2L are interchanged.

[0039] More specifically, such as Figure 2 As shown, an air compressor assembly 1 contains an air compressor 1b, which is driven by a drive motor 1c to compress gas. Marked according to the direction of gas flow into and out of the air compressor 1b, the air compressor assembly 1 includes a first outlet end 1h and a second inlet end 1g. Figure 3 As shown, the gas supply unit control assembly 2 is marked according to the direction of gas flowing into and out of the gas supply unit control assembly 2. The gas supply unit control assembly 2 includes a third air inlet 2i and a third air outlet 2h. The third air outlet 2h is connected to the second air inlet 1g through a first air passage 7, and the third air inlet 2i is connected to the first air outlet 1h through a second air passage 8.

[0040] like Figure 1 As shown, the first air source terminal 2k of the air supply unit control assembly 2 is used to supply air to the first air-consuming device 4, and the second air source terminal 2L is used to supply air to the second air-consuming device 5. The first air-consuming device 4 can be, for example, an air suspension, a seat massage device, an active side wing device, a vacuum booster device, or a tire inflation device, and the second air-consuming device 5 can also be, for example, an air suspension, a seat massage device, an active side wing device, a vacuum booster device, or a tire inflation device. The first air-consuming device 4 and the second air-consuming device 5 are different air-consuming devices.

[0041] In the following description, the switching of the state between the air compressor assembly 1 and the air supply unit control assembly 2 is exemplarily achieved through the operation of each control valve. However, this application is not limited to the specific structure of each control valve. The switching of each state can also be achieved by a valve system composed of other types of control valves, which will not be described in detail in this application.

[0042] like Figure 2As shown, the air compressor assembly 1 includes a first control valve 1a, an air compressor 1b, a drive motor 1c, a second control valve 1d, a gas drying unit 1e, and a third control valve 1f. The first control valve 1a and the third control valve 1f are two-position, two-way valves; specifically, the third control valve 1f is a two-position, two-way valve with a pressure relief function. The second control valve 1d is a two-position, three-way valve. The air compressor assembly 1 also includes a first inlet end 1i, a first outlet end 1h, a second inlet end 1g, and a second outlet end 1j. The first inlet end 1i and the second outlet end 1j are connected to the outside atmosphere, while the first outlet end 1h and the second inlet end 1g are connected to the air supply unit control assembly 2. The first control valve 1a and the air compressor 1b are sequentially arranged from the first inlet end 1i to the second control valve 1d. One end of the third control valve 1f is connected to the second outlet end 1j, and the other end is located between the air compressor 1b and the second control valve 1d. The second air inlet 1g is connected to the first air passage 7 at one end, and the other end is located between the first control valve 1a and the air compressor 1b. Between the second control valve 1d and the first air outlet 1h, two branches are provided: the first branch 1k and the second branch 1L. The first branch 1k is equipped with a gas drying unit 1e, and may also include a throttle valve or other similar device. The second branch 1L is directly connected to the second control valve 1d and the first air outlet 1h, and does not have a gas drying unit 1e.

[0043] like Figure 3 As shown, the air supply unit control assembly 2 includes an air supply electronic control unit (ECU) 2a, a fourth control valve 2b, a fifth control valve 2c, a sixth control valve 2d, a seventh control valve 2e, a humidity sensor 2f, and a pressure sensor 2g. The fourth control valve 2b, fifth control valve 2c, sixth control valve 2d, and seventh control valve 2e are all two-position, two-way valves. The air supply unit control assembly 2 also includes a third air inlet 2i, a third air outlet 2h, a positive pressure air source 2j, a first air source 2k, a second air source 2L, and a negative pressure air source 2m. The positive pressure air source 2j and the third air inlet 2i are simultaneously connected to the fourth control valve 2b and the fifth control valve 2c. The first air source 2k is simultaneously connected to the fourth control valve 2b and the sixth control valve 2d. The third air outlet 2h and the negative pressure air source 2m are simultaneously connected to the sixth control valve 2d and the seventh control valve 2e. The second gas source terminal 2L is simultaneously connected to the fifth control valve 2c and the seventh control valve 2e. The humidity of the gas at the third gas outlet terminal 2h can be detected by the humidity sensor 2f, and the pressure of the gas at the first gas source terminal 2L can be detected by the pressure sensor 2g. The air supply electronic control unit 2a can control the fourth control valve 2b, the fifth control valve 2c, the sixth control valve 2d, and the seventh control valve 2e to operate respectively, thereby realizing the state switching of the air supply unit control assembly 2.

[0044] like Figure 4As shown, the air supply electronic control unit 2a also communicates with the first control valve 1a, drive motor 1c, second control valve 1d, and third control valve 1f of the air compressor assembly 1, thereby controlling the operation of the drive motor 1c, or controlling the operation of the first control valve 1a, second control valve 1d, and third control valve 1f, causing the air compressor assembly to enter different states. In other embodiments of this application, the air compressor assembly 1 can also be equipped with a separate control unit to control the switching of its operating states.

[0045] like Figure 4 As shown, the air supply unit control assembly 2 can be in either a first state or a second state. For example, the air supply electronic control unit 2a controls the fifth control valve 2c and the sixth control valve 2d to open, and the air supply unit control assembly 2 enters the first state. In the first state, the air supply electronic control unit 2a controls the drive motor 1c to drive the air compressor 1b to work. The positive pressure device 3 connected to the positive pressure air source 2j and the negative pressure device 6 connected to the negative pressure air source 2m are both in a blocked state. At this time, the gas from the first air source 2k passes through the sixth control valve 2d, the third outlet 2h, the first air path 7, the second inlet 1g, the air compressor assembly 1, the second control valve 1d, the gas drying unit 1e in the first branch 1k, the first outlet 1h, the second air path 8, the third inlet 2i, and the fifth control valve 2c to reach the second air source 2L. At this time, the first air-consuming device 4 replenishes the second air-consuming device 5 with gas. The air supply electronic control unit 2a controls the fourth control valve 2b and the seventh control valve 2e to open, and the air supply unit control assembly 2 enters the second state. In the second state, the air supply electronic control unit 2a controls the drive motor 1c to drive the air compressor 1b to work. The positive pressure device 3 connected to the positive pressure air source 2j and the negative pressure device 6 connected to the negative pressure air source 2m are both in a blocked state. At this time, the gas from the second air source 2L passes through the seventh control valve 2e, the third air outlet 2h, the first air path 7, the second air inlet 1g, the air compressor assembly 1, the second control valve 1d, the gas drying unit 1e in the first branch 1k, the first air outlet 1h, the second air path 8, the third air inlet 2i, and the fourth control valve 2b to reach the first air source 2k. At this time, the second air-consuming device 5 replenishes the gas to the first air-consuming device 4.

[0046] As described above, by switching between the first and second states using the air supply unit control assembly 2, gas circulation between the first air-consuming device 4 and the second air-consuming device 5 can be achieved. Even if the air compressor 1b can only compress air in one direction, the gas always passes through the first air passage 7 and then the second air passage 8 during the gas circulation process, eliminating the need for complex air passages and simplifying the structure. In fact, in all operating states of the vehicle air supply system of this application, when the air compressor 1b needs to operate, the gas always enters the air compressor 1b through the first air passage 7 and exits through the second air passage 8, achieving multi-functional reuse of a single air compressor 1b, saving costs, and simplifying the air passage structure.

[0047] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the air supply unit control assembly 2 also includes a positive pressure air source terminal 2j. The air compressor assembly 1 includes a first air inlet terminal 1i, an air compressor 1b, and a first air outlet terminal 1h. The first air inlet terminal 1i is connected to the atmosphere, and the first air outlet terminal 1h is connected to the second air passage 8. A first control valve 1a is provided between the first air inlet terminal 1i and the air compressor 1b. The air supply unit control assembly 2 also includes a third state. In the third state, the first control valve 1a is open, and the gas from the first air inlet terminal 1i is supplied to the positive pressure air source terminal 2j via the air compressor 1b, the first air outlet terminal 1h, and the second air passage 8.

[0048] Specifically, the positive pressure air source 2j is connected to the positive pressure device 3, which can be a tire inflation device, air suspension, or other device requiring a positive pressure air source. The air supply electronic control unit 2a controls the fourth control valve 2b, fifth control valve 2c, sixth control valve 2d, and seventh control valve 2e to all close, at which point the air supply unit control assembly 2 is in its third state. In this third state, the negative pressure device 6 is blocked, and the air supply electronic control unit 2a controls the first control valve 1a of the air compressor assembly 1 to open. The drive motor 1c drives the air compressor 1b to operate. Gas from the atmosphere enters the air compressor 1b through the first inlet 1i and the first control valve 1a. The compressed gas is then supplied to the positive pressure air source 2j through the second control valve 1d, the first branch 1k or the second branch 1L, the first outlet 1h, the second air path 8, and the third inlet 2i, thereby supplying air to the positive pressure device 3. At this time, opening the fifth control valve 2c allows the pressure value of the positive pressure air source to be obtained through the pressure sensor 2g.

[0049] like Figure 4As shown, the air compressor assembly 1 includes a first intake end 1i, an air compressor 1b, and a first outlet end 1h. The first intake end 1i is connected to the atmosphere, and the first outlet end 1h is connected to the second air passage 8. A first branch 1k and a second branch 1L are provided between the air compressor 1b and the first outlet end 1h. The first branch 1k is equipped with a gas drying unit 1e. When the pressure required by the positive pressure air source end 2j is higher than or equal to a first threshold, the air compressor assembly 1 is in a fourth state; when the pressure required by the positive pressure air source end 2j is lower than the first threshold, the air compressor assembly 1 is in a fifth state. In the fourth state, the first control valve 1a is open, and the second control valve 1d is maintained as follows: Figure 1 In the indicated state, gas from the first intake end 1i passes through the air compressor 1b and the first branch 1k to reach the first outlet end 1h, thereby supplying gas to each air source end of the air supply unit control assembly 2. In the fifth state, the first control valve 1a is opened and the second control valve 1d is activated, allowing gas from the first intake end 1i to pass through the air compressor 1b and the second branch 1L to reach the first outlet end 1h, thereby supplying gas to each air source end of the air supply unit control assembly 2.

[0050] Specifically, when the required pressure at the positive pressure air source 2j is higher than the first threshold, the air supply electronic control unit 2a controls the first control valve 1a to open and the second control valve 1d to remain at the specified position. Figure 4 As shown, the air compressor assembly 1 is in its fourth state. In this state, the drive motor 1c drives the air compressor 1b. Atmospheric gas enters the air compressor 1b through the first intake end 1i and the first control valve 1a. The compressed gas then passes through the second control valve 1d, the first branch 1k, the first outlet end 1h, the second air passage 8, and the third intake end 2i to provide positive pressure gas to the positive pressure gas source end 2j, thereby supplying gas to the positive pressure device 3. The advantage of this structure is that when the pressure required at the positive pressure gas source end 2j is higher than the first threshold, water vapor from the atmosphere is more likely to condense into water droplets. Therefore, after drying by the gas drying unit 1e in the first branch 1k, there is no need to worry about high air pressure generating liquid water in the air passage, which could lead to system short circuits or corrosion.

[0051] When the required pressure at the positive pressure air source 2j is lower than the first threshold, the air supply electronic control unit 2a controls the first control valve 1a and the second control valve 1d to operate, and the air compressor assembly 1 is in the fifth state. In the fifth state, the drive motor 1c drives the air compressor 1b to work. Gas from the atmosphere enters the air compressor 1b through the first inlet 1i and the first control valve 1a. The compressed gas then supplies positive pressure air to the positive pressure air source 2j through the second control valve 1d, the second branch 1L, the first outlet 1h, the second air passage 8, and the third inlet 2i, thereby supplying air to the positive pressure device 3. The advantage of this structure is that when the required pressure at the positive pressure air source 2j is lower than the first threshold, water vapor from the atmosphere is less likely to condense into water droplets. Therefore, it does not need to be dried by the gas drying unit 1e in the first branch 1k, but is directly delivered to the positive pressure device 3 through the second branch 1L, thus improving the service life of the gas drying unit 1e. The gas drying unit 1e can be filled with a desiccant made of renewable materials, such as molecular sieves, aluminosilicate gel, silica gel, etc.

[0052] like Figure 4 As shown, the air compressor assembly 1 also includes a second air outlet 1j, which is connected to the atmosphere. A third control valve 1f is provided between the second air outlet 1j and the air compressor 1b. The air compressor assembly 1 includes a sixth state. In the sixth state, the third control valve 1f is open, and the air supply unit control assembly 2 is in a seventh state. In the seventh state, the gas from the first air source 2k is discharged through the second air passage 8, the first branch passage 1k, and the second air outlet 1j.

[0053] Specifically, the air supply electronic control unit 2a controls the third control valve 1f to open, and the air compressor assembly 1 enters the sixth state. In the sixth state, the air supply electronic control unit 2a controls the fourth control valve 2b to open, and the air supply unit control assembly 2 enters the seventh state. At this time, the positive pressure air-using device 3 is blocked, and the gas from the first air source end 2K is discharged through the fourth control valve 2b, the third air inlet end 2i, the second air path 8, the first air outlet end 1h, the first branch path 1k, the second control valve 1d, the third control valve 1f, and the second air outlet end 1j. At this time, the dry gas in the first air-using device 4 can carry away the moisture in the gas drying unit 1e, realizing the regeneration and utilization of the desiccant.

[0054] like Figure 4 As shown, in the sixth state, the gas supply unit control assembly 2 can be in the eighth state. In the eighth state, the gas from the second gas source end 2L is discharged through the second gas passage 8, the first branch 1k, and the second gas outlet end 1j.

[0055] Similarly, in the sixth state, the air supply electronic control unit 2a controls the fifth control valve 2c to open, and the air supply unit control assembly 2 enters the eighth state. At this time, the positive pressure air supply device 3 is blocked, and the gas from the second air source end 2L is discharged through the fifth control valve 2c, the third air inlet end 2i, the second air path 8, the first air outlet end 1h, the first branch 1k, the second control valve 1d, the third control valve 1f, and the second air outlet end 1j. At this time, the dry gas in the second air supply device 5 can be used to remove the moisture in the gas drying unit 1e, realizing the regeneration and utilization of the desiccant.

[0056] like Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the air compressor assembly 1 also includes a second air outlet 1j, which is connected to the atmosphere. The air supply unit control assembly 2 also includes a negative pressure air source 2m. The air supply unit control assembly 2 can be in a ninth state. In the ninth state, the third control valve 1f is opened, and the gas from the negative pressure air source 2m is discharged through the first air passage 7, the air compressor assembly 1, and the second air outlet 1j, thereby providing negative pressure to the negative pressure air source 2m (this negative pressure may be higher or lower than atmospheric pressure). This negative pressure can draw away the gas in the negative pressure device connected to 2m.

[0057] Specifically, the negative pressure air source end 2m is used to connect to the negative pressure device 6. The negative pressure device 6 can be a device that requires providing negative pressure, such as a car vacuum cleaner, or a device that needs to remove internal gas, such as an airbag that needs to be deflated. The air supply electronic control unit 2a controls the fourth control valve 2b, the fifth control valve 2c, the sixth control valve 2d, and the seventh control valve 2e to be in the closed state, and the positive pressure device 3 is blocked. Therefore, the positive pressure air source end 2j is in the blocked state, and the air supply unit control assembly 2 is in the ninth state. In the ninth state, the air supply electronic control unit 2a controls the drive motor 1c to drive the air compressor 1b to work, and the third control valve 1f is opened. The gas from the negative pressure air source end 2m is discharged to the atmosphere through the third outlet end 2h, the first air passage 7, the second inlet end 1g, the air compressor 1b, the third control valve 1f, and the second outlet end 1j, thereby forming a negative pressure at the negative pressure air source end 2m. At this time, the seventh control valve 2e is opened, and the pressure value of the negative pressure air source can be obtained through the pressure sensor 2g.

[0058] like Figure 4 As shown, the air supply unit control assembly 2 also includes an air supply electronic control unit 2a, which is used to control the air supply unit control assembly 2 to switch states. The air supply electronic control unit 2a communicates with the air compressor assembly 1 to control the air compressor assembly 1 to switch states.

[0059] Specifically, the air supply electronic control unit 2a can switch the air compressor assembly 1 and the air supply unit control assembly 2 between different states by controlling the actions of the first control valve 1a, the second control valve 1d, the third control valve 1f, the drive motor 1c, the fourth control valve 2b, the fifth control valve 2c, the sixth control valve 2d, and the seventh control valve 2d. In this way, multiple state switching can be achieved with only one air supply electronic control unit 2a, saving the length of the control harness and facilitating the routing and arrangement of the wiring harness.

[0060] In other embodiments of this application, the first control valve 1a, the second control valve 1d, the third control valve 1f, and the drive motor 1c can also be controlled by separate control units so that the air compressor assembly 1 can switch to different states.

[0061] like Figure 3 As shown, the air supply unit control assembly 2 also includes a humidity sensor 2f and a third air outlet 2h. The third air outlet 2h is connected to the first air passage 7, and the humidity sensor 2f is used to detect the air humidity at the third air outlet 2h.

[0062] Specifically, during the process of the first gas-consuming device 4 replenishing gas to the second gas-consuming device 5, or the second gas-consuming device 5 replenishing gas to the first gas-consuming device 4, the humidity sensor 2f determines whether the gas in the first gas-consuming device 4 or the second gas-consuming device 5 meets the drying requirements by detecting the gas humidity at the third gas outlet 2h.

[0063] like Figure 3 As shown, the gas supply unit control assembly 2 also includes a pressure sensor 2g, which is used to measure the gas pressure at the second gas source end 2L.

[0064] Specifically, the aforementioned first threshold can be stored in the air supply electronic control unit 2a, and during operation, the control process of the electronic control unit 2a is calibrated by the pressure value detected by the pressure sensor 2g.

[0065] As described above, the vehicle air supply system provided in this application can provide positive pressure air source, negative pressure air source, and internal gas circulation between different air-using devices, and has a simple structure. During system operation, the vibrations and temperature rises generated by each component do not affect each other, improving product reliability. The overall system is simple and therefore small in size, facilitating flexible placement in confined spaces such as the vehicle chassis. The air compressor assembly 1 and the air supply unit control assembly 2 adopt a modular design. When any component in the air compressor assembly 1 or the air supply unit control assembly 2 is damaged, the corresponding assembly can be replaced to restore function, reducing maintenance difficulty and facilitating after-sales maintenance and replacement.

[0066] In one embodiment of this application, the third control valve 1f is a pressure relief valve with a passive pressure relief function. When the pressure difference between the air compressor 1b and the second control valve 1d is too large, for example, exceeding the second threshold, the third control valve 1f automatically opens to relieve pressure, discharging excess gas to the atmosphere, thereby ensuring system safety and preventing overload failure of the drive motor 1c. The first threshold and the second threshold can be the same or different values. For example, the first threshold can be 200 kPa, 250 kPa, etc., set in the air supply electronic control unit 2a, and the second threshold can be 10 kPa, 20 kPa, etc., determined by the spring of the third control valve 1f itself.

[0067] In such Figures 1 to 4 In the illustrated embodiment, the first control valve 1a, the third control valve 1f, the fourth control valve 2b, the fifth control valve 2c, the sixth control valve 2d, and the seventh control valve 2e are all normally closed two-position two-way solenoid valves. However, this application does not exclude the use of other types of solenoid valves to achieve the aforementioned different states.

[0068] On the other hand, this application also provides a vehicle including the vehicle air supply system as described in any of the foregoing claims. By employing the aforementioned vehicle air supply system, the vehicle can achieve gas circulation between different air-consuming devices and simplifies piping complexity.

[0069] On the other hand, this application also provides a vehicle air supply control method for controlling the aforementioned vehicle, including:

[0070] The air supply electronic control unit 2a controls the vehicle to switch states, enabling the air compressor assembly 1 to provide different air supply methods to the first air-consuming device 4 and the second air-consuming device 5. For example, as mentioned above, it can supply air to the first air-consuming device 4 alone, supply air to the second air-consuming device 5 alone, supply air from the first device 4 to the second device 5, or supply air from the second air-consuming device 5 to the first air-consuming device 4. This allows a single air compressor assembly to perform different gas functions for different air-consuming devices, reducing the complexity of the piping structure.

[0071] The above-mentioned vehicle air supply control methods also include:

[0072] The air supply electronic control unit 2a controls the vehicle to supply positive pressure air to the positive pressure device 3. When the pressure required by the positive pressure device 3 is greater than a first threshold, the positive pressure air is controlled to flow through the gas drying unit 1e. When the pressure required by the positive pressure device 3 is less than the first threshold, the positive pressure air is controlled not to flow through the gas drying unit 1e. In this way, the flow of the positive pressure air through the drying unit 1e can be controlled according to the pressure required by the positive pressure device 3. When the required pressure is high, water vapor in the positive pressure air source is prone to condensation. Therefore, allowing the positive pressure air source to flow through the gas drying unit 1e can prevent water vapor condensation from damaging the air passage. When the required pressure is low, water vapor in the positive pressure air source is not prone to condensation. Therefore, allowing the positive pressure air source not to flow through the gas drying unit 1e can improve the service life of the gas drying power supply 1e.

[0073] The aforementioned vehicle air supply control method further includes: the air supply electronic control unit 2a also controls the gas in the first air-using device 4 or the second air-using device 5 to flow through the gas drying unit 1e and then be discharged. In this way, the drying gas in the first air-using device 4 or the second air-using device 5 can remove the moisture in the desiccant in the gas drying unit 1e, thereby realizing the regeneration and reuse of the desiccant.

[0074] While specific embodiments of this application have been described in detail by way of examples, those skilled in the art should understand that the above examples are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this application. Those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can be made to the above embodiments without departing from the scope and spirit of this application. The scope of this application is defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A vehicle air supply system, characterized in that, include: Air compressor assembly (1); The gas supply unit control assembly (2) is provided with at least two gas source terminals; The air compressor assembly (1) is connected to the air supply unit control assembly (2), and the air supply unit control assembly (2) is able to switch states so that the air compressor assembly (1) provides at least two air supply methods to at least two air source ends.

2. The vehicle air supply system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The gas source end includes a first gas source end (2k), a second gas source end (2L), a positive pressure gas source end (2j), and a negative pressure gas source end (2m); The air supply unit control assembly (2) can switch states to interchange the air inlet and outlet directions between the first air source end (2k) and the second air source end (2L), or supply air from the first air source end (2k) to the positive pressure air source end (2j), or supply air from the second air source end (2L) to the positive pressure air source end (2j), or supply air from the negative pressure air source end (2m) to the positive pressure air source end (2j), or supply compressed air to the positive pressure air source end (2j).

3. The vehicle air supply system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The air supply unit control assembly (2) is connected to the air compressor assembly (1) through a first air passage (7) and a second air passage (8); The gas supply unit control assembly (2) includes a first state and a second state. In the first state, gas from the first gas source end (2k) reaches the second gas source end (2L) via the first gas path (7), the air compressor assembly (1), and the second gas path (8). In the second state, gas from the second gas source end (2L) reaches the first gas source end (2k) via the first gas path (7), the air compressor assembly (1), and the second gas path (8).

4. The vehicle air supply system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The air compressor assembly (1) includes a first air inlet (1i), an air compressor (1b), and a first air outlet (1h). The first air inlet (1i) is connected to the atmosphere, and the first air outlet (1h) is connected to the second air passage (8). A first control valve (1a) is provided between the first air inlet (1i) and the air compressor (1b). The air supply unit control assembly (2) also includes a third state. In the third state, the first control valve (1a) is open, and the gas from the first air inlet (1i) is supplied to the positive pressure air source (2j) through the air compressor (1b), the first air outlet (1h), and the second air passage (8).

5. The vehicle air supply system according to claim 4, characterized in that, A first branch (1k) is provided between the air compressor (1b) and the first air outlet (1h), and a gas drying unit (1e) is provided in the first branch (1k); When the required pressure of the positive pressure air source end (2j) is higher than the first threshold, the air compressor assembly (1) is in the fourth state. In the fourth state, the gas from the first air inlet end (1i) passes through the air compressor (1b) and the first branch (1k) to reach the first air outlet end (1h).

6. The vehicle air supply system according to claim 5, characterized in that, A second branch (1L) is provided between the air compressor (1b) and the first air outlet (1h); when the pressure required by the positive pressure air source (2j) is lower than the first threshold, the air compressor assembly (1) is in the fifth state. In the fifth state, the gas from the first air inlet (1i) reaches the first air outlet (1h) through the air compressor (1b) and the second branch (1L).

7. The vehicle air supply system according to claim 5, characterized in that, The air compressor assembly (1) further includes a second air outlet (1j), which is connected to the atmosphere. A third control valve (1f) is provided between the second air outlet (1j) and the air compressor (1b). The air compressor assembly (1) includes a sixth state in which the third control valve (1f) is opened. The air supply unit control assembly (2) includes a seventh state in which gas from the first air source end (2k) is discharged through the second air passage (8), the first branch (1k), and the second air outlet (1j).

8. The vehicle air supply system according to claim 7, characterized in that, In the sixth state, the gas supply unit control assembly (2) also includes an eighth state, in which gas from the second gas source end (2L) is discharged through the second gas path (8), the first branch (1k), and the second gas outlet end (1j).

9. The vehicle air supply system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The air compressor assembly (1) further includes a second air outlet (1j) and an air compressor (1b). The second air outlet (1j) is connected to the atmosphere. A third control valve (1f) is provided between the second air outlet (1j) and the air compressor (1b). The air supply unit control assembly (2) further includes a negative pressure air source (2m). The air supply unit control assembly (2) includes a ninth state. In the ninth state, the third control valve (1f) is opened, and the gas from the negative pressure air source (2m) is discharged through the first air passage (7), the air compressor assembly (1), and the second air outlet (1j), so that the negative pressure air source (2m) provides negative pressure.

10. A vehicle, characterized in that, Includes the vehicle air supply system as described in any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. A vehicle air supply control method for controlling the vehicle as described in claim 10, characterized in that, include: An air supply electronic control unit (2a) controls the vehicle to switch states, so that the air compressor assembly provides different air supply methods to the first air-consuming device (4) and the second air-consuming device (5); The first gas-using device (4) is connected to the first gas source (2k), and the second gas-using device (5) is connected to the second gas source (2L).

12. The vehicle air supply control method according to claim 11, characterized in that, Also includes: The air supply electronic control unit (2a) controls the vehicle to provide a positive pressure air source to the positive pressure device (3); When the pressure required by the positive pressure device (3) is greater than the first threshold, the positive pressure gas source is controlled to flow through the gas drying unit (1e); when the pressure required by the positive pressure device (3) is less than the first threshold, the positive pressure gas source is controlled not to flow through the gas drying unit (1e).

13. The vehicle air supply control method according to claim 12, characterized in that, The air supply electronic control unit (2a) also controls the gas in the first gas-using device (4) or the second gas-using device (5) to flow through the gas drying unit (1e) and then be discharged.

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