Muffler, pneumatic system or component, commercial vehicle and method of venting gas from a pneumatic system of a vehicle

Abstract

A muffler, a pneumatic system or component, a commercial vehicle, and a method for venting gases from the pneumatic system of a vehicle are provided. The muffler (50) for a vehicle includes a noise-damping mesh material (40) and a muffler housing component (10), the muffler housing component forming a container for the noise-damping mesh material (40). The muffler housing component (10) includes an outer wall (20) and an end wall (26). The outer wall (20) extends circumferentially about a central axis (13) of the muffler housing component (10). The end wall (26) forms a recess (29). A delay structure (30) including at least one wall (31, 32, 33, 34) is arranged in the recess (29) and protrudes from the end wall (26). The delay structure (30) is configured to reduce the flow rate of gas exiting through the gas outlet passage of the muffler (50).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a muffler configured for installation in or on a vehicle, such as a commercial vehicle. The invention particularly relates to a muffler configured for use in the pneumatic system or pneumatic components of a commercial vehicle. Background Technology

[0002] Pneumatic systems are used in a wide variety of applications in vehicles, including air dryer systems, air suspension, pneumatic leveling, door actuation systems, and / or braking systems. Mufflers are components of pneumatic systems that help reduce the noise level generated by the flow of compressed gas in these systems. Mufflers are operable to attenuate or dampen the noise generated by the expansion and release of compressed gas. Typically, the function of a muffler is to at least partially absorb and / or dissipate the energy of the gas, thereby converting that energy into heat rather than sound.

[0003] Mufflers in a vehicle's pneumatic system offer a variety of benefits. These benefits include, but are not limited to: noise reduction; improved compliance with noise pollution regulations; improved working conditions for vehicle operators and / or passengers; and / or enhanced vehicle performance. For example, mufflers help create a quieter working environment for vehicle operators, thereby reducing the risk of hearing damage and improving overall working conditions. Mufflers can also help optimize the overall performance of the vehicle's pneumatic system by reducing pressure fluctuations. In summary, mufflers in a vehicle's pneumatic system help improve comfort, reduce noise pollution, and optimize the performance of the vehicle's pneumatic system.

[0004] The silencer is disclosed in DE 102009 029968 A1, EP 2 303 659 B1 and DE 10 2008 029489 A1. Summary of the Invention

[0005] There is a persistent need in the art for mufflers configured to provide further reduction in noise levels during exhaust operation. This is particularly relevant to the maximum noise generated during exhaust operation. Further reduction in noise levels (especially further reduction in maximum noise levels) is desired for various reasons, such as ensuring compliance with or over-compliance with prescribed noise level limits (e.g., for the driver and / or passengers). Therefore, there is a need for an enhanced muffler configured to provide benefits with respect to the achieved attenuation and, more specifically, to provide improvement in noise levels during the initial phase of exhaust operation.

[0006] The object of the present invention is to provide: an improved muffler that provides an effective reduction in noise level during exhaust operation; an improved muffler that provides an effective reduction in noise level; a pneumatic system and / or a pneumatic component for a vehicle and / or a vehicle that includes such a muffler.

[0007] According to aspects of the present invention, a muffler, a pneumatic system for a vehicle, a pneumatic component for a vehicle, a commercial vehicle, and a method for emitting gases are disclosed. The dependent claims define preferred embodiments.

[0008] According to one aspect of the invention, a muffler for a pneumatic component or pneumatic system of a vehicle is provided. The muffler includes a noise-damping mesh material. The muffler also includes a muffler housing component defining a container for the noise-damping mesh material. The muffler housing component includes an outer wall extending circumferentially about a central axis of the muffler housing component, the outer wall including a first axial end and a second axial end. A mounting structure for mounting the muffler housing component is arranged at the first axial end of the outer wall. A plurality of gas outlet passages are formed through the muffler housing component in at least the outer wall. The muffler housing component also includes an end wall extending from the second axial end of the outer wall toward the central axis. The muffler housing component includes a delay structure configured to reduce the flow rate of gas exiting through the gas outlet passages during at least a portion of exhaust operation. The delay structure includes at least one wall disposed in a recess formed by the end wall, and wherein the delay structure protrudes from the end wall toward the first axial end.

[0009] The muffler achieves various effects. A delay structure is disposed within a recess formed by the end walls. This configuration provides the following synergistic effect: the provision and arrangement of the delay structure retains the construction space available for noise damping mesh material, while contributing to a reduction in noise levels during at least the initial phase of exhaust operation. More specifically, the recess with the delay structure provides additional volume for gas to flow into, and the delay structure prevents gas from leaving the outlet passage along a straight flow path. The delay structure provides baffle walls within the recess that force gas already inside the recess to pass through a gas flow path, which, due to the delay structure, has an outflow geometry (such as zigzag or labyrinthine) that slows at least a portion of the gas flow during the initial phase of exhaust operation. Compared to mufflers without recesses or delay structures, this affects the pressure drop during the initial phase of exhaust operation and reduces the maximum noise level generated.

[0010] Preferably, the silencer can be configured such that: the first axial end extends along a first plane perpendicular to the central axis, wherein each of the plurality of gas outlet passages has a first passage end and a second passage end, the second passage end being spaced further from the first plane than the first passage end. The silencer can be configured such that: the second passage end lies on a second plane perpendicular to the central axis, and the end wall includes a recess forming a recess that extends at a greater distance from the first plane than the second plane.

[0011] Thus, the muffler has a configuration that does not reduce the construction space available for accommodating the noise damping mesh material, while simultaneously allowing the delay structure to be accommodated in the recesses of the end walls. Although this configuration increases the height of the muffler along its central axis, it does not increase the muffler's radius. This facilitates installation and allows the muffler to be easily retrofitted into pneumatic systems or components with conventional muffler configurations.

[0012] Preferably, the muffler can be configured such that: the depth of the recess divided by the distance between the second plane and the first plane is at least 0.1, at least 0.15, or at least 0.2, and the depth is measured between a point on the inner surface of the second plane and the end wall, parallel to the central axis, the point having the largest distance from the second plane among all points on the inner surface of the end wall.

[0013] Therefore, a highly efficient reduction in pressure drop is achieved during at least the initial phase of exhaust operation. This configuration helps to reduce the maximum noise level during exhaust operation, thereby further improving noise attenuation.

[0014] Preferably, the muffler can be configured such that the dimensions of at least one wall are designed such that: the at least one wall does not protrude beyond the second plane toward the first plane, and / or the at least one wall does not intersect with the second plane.

[0015] Therefore, an efficient reduction in pressure drop is achieved during at least the initial phase of exhaust operation, while allowing the at least one wall to also serve as support for the noise-damping mesh material. This configuration helps reduce the maximum noise level during exhaust operation, thereby further improving noise attenuation.

[0016] Preferably, the silencer can be configured such that each of the at least one wall includes a wall base and a free end edge at the end wall, wherein the free end edge abuts against the noise damping mesh material.

[0017] Therefore, using the construction where said at least one wall serves as a support for the noise damping mesh material, an efficient reduction in pressure drop is achieved during at least the initial phase of exhaust operation. This configuration helps to reduce the maximum noise level during exhaust operation using a simple and weight-efficient construction.

[0018] Preferably, the muffler can be configured such that: the at least one wall includes a plurality of walls protruding from the end wall, wherein the free end edges of the plurality of walls are flush with each other (i.e., collinearly aligned to extend in a common plane) and abut against the noise damping mesh material.

[0019] Therefore, an efficient reduction in pressure drop is achieved during at least the initial stage of exhaust operation, wherein the at least one wall serves as support for the noise-damping mesh material. This configuration helps to reduce the maximum noise level during exhaust operation using a simple and weight-efficient construction.

[0020] Preferably, the silencer can be configured such that the wall base is spaced apart from the noise damping mesh material.

[0021] Therefore, at least a portion of the recess lacks noise-damping mesh material. This allows a portion of the gas exhausted through the muffler to flow within the recess along a flow path created by the at least one wall. This contributes to noise attenuation, thereby reducing the maximum noise level encountered during exhaust operation.

[0022] Preferably, the silencer can be configured such that at least one wall forms a gas flow channel including angled portions and / or curved portions.

[0023] Therefore, this portion of the gas flowing through the recess is propelled along a gas flow path that delays its exit through the outlet passage. This contributes to noise attenuation, thereby reducing the maximum noise level encountered during exhaust operations.

[0024] Preferably, the silencer can be configured such that the gas flow channel formed by the at least one wall includes a straight portion.

[0025] Thus, a simple structure is obtained, while the at least one wall contributes to noise attenuation.

[0026] Preferably, the silencer can be configured such that at least one wall forms a gas flow channel including angled portions and / or curved portions.

[0027] Therefore, this portion of the gas flowing through the recess is propelled along a gas flow path that delays its exit through the outlet passage. This contributes to noise attenuation, thereby reducing the maximum noise level encountered during exhaust operations.

[0028] Preferably, the silencer can be configured such that: the at least one wall comprises a sequence of walls, each wall having a triangular shape in a viewing direction parallel to the central axis.

[0029] Therefore, it is possible to generate tortuous or labyrinthine airflow geometries efficiently while firmly maintaining the noise damping mesh material. This contributes to good noise attenuation (especially by reducing noise levels during the initial phase of exhaust operation).

[0030] Preferably, the muffler can be configured such that the plurality of sequences of the wall can have vertices at the joints of the triangular-shaped legs, wherein the straight lines along which the vertices are arranged for different sequences of the plurality of sequences are at an angle to each other.

[0031] Therefore, it is possible to generate tortuous or labyrinthine airflow geometries efficiently while firmly maintaining the noise damping mesh material. This contributes to good noise attenuation (especially by reducing noise levels during the initial phase of exhaust operation).

[0032] Preferably, the silencer can be configured such that: the at least one wall comprises or is composed of a single wall having a helical shape when viewed in a direction parallel to the central axis.

[0033] Therefore, it is possible to generate spiral airflow geometry in a highly efficient manner while firmly maintaining the noise damping mesh material. This contributes to good noise attenuation (especially by reducing noise levels during the initial phase of exhaust operation).

[0034] Preferably, the silencer can be configured such that part or all of the gas flow channels in the gas flow channel are free of the noise damping mesh material.

[0035] Therefore, good noise attenuation is achieved through a simple construction in which the noise damping mesh material is supported on the at least one wall but does not protrude into the gas flow channel defined by the at least one wall of the delay structure. This contributes to noise attenuation, where the maximum noise level encountered during exhaust operation can be reduced.

[0036] Preferably, the silencer can be configured such that the at least one wall mechanically supports and holds the noise damping material.

[0037] Therefore, good noise attenuation is achieved through a simple and lightweight construction.

[0038] Preferably, the muffler can be configured such that the outer wall, the end wall, and the at least one wall are formed as an integrally molded body.

[0039] Therefore, muffler housing components can be formed in an efficient manner using techniques such as injection molding, while providing easy installation and enhanced noise attenuation.

[0040] Preferably, the muffler can be configured such that the outer wall and the end wall are formed as an integral molded body, wherein at least one wall of the delay structure is an insert disposed in the integral molded body.

[0041] Therefore, the muffler housing components can be formed in an efficient manner, while providing easy installation and enhanced noise reduction.

[0042] According to another aspect of the invention, a pneumatic system or pneumatic component for a vehicle (e.g., for a commercial vehicle) is provided. The pneumatic system or pneumatic component includes a muffler according to any aspect or embodiment disclosed herein.

[0043] Therefore, a pneumatic system or pneumatic component is provided that uses a muffler with a simple construction to provide good noise reduction during exhaust operation.

[0044] Preferably, the pneumatic system or pneumatic component is an air dryer or auxiliary power unit (APU) for commercial vehicles.

[0045] Therefore, air dryers or APUs provide good noise reduction during exhaust operations using a simple construction.

[0046] Preferably, the pneumatic system may include any one or any combination of the following: a supply system for supplying compressed air; a leveling system; a suspension system; a braking system; and a pneumatic door actuation system.

[0047] As a result, this pneumatic system achieves more efficient noise reduction.

[0048] A pneumatic component for a vehicle according to one aspect of the invention includes: a vehicle component housing; a solenoid valve disposed in the housing; and a muffler according to any aspect or embodiment, wherein a muffler housing component engages with a mating engagement structure of the vehicle component housing.

[0049] Therefore, the muffler housing components can be directly mounted on the housing of the pneumatic components, which include the solenoid valve. This results in a compact design achieved through efficient noise reduction.

[0050] Preferably, the vehicle component housing includes a pneumatic consumer port for fluidly connecting a pneumatic component to at least one pneumatic consumer. Preferably, the vehicle component housing includes an exhaust port. Preferably, the muffler housing component is attached to the vehicle component housing at the exhaust port.

[0051] Therefore, the muffler housing component can be directly mounted on the housing of the pneumatic component to reduce noise levels during exhaust operation.

[0052] Preferably, the pneumatic component may include a controller and / or other control electronics housed in a vehicle component housing and configured to selectively actuate the solenoid valve.

[0053] Therefore, the muffler housing component can be directly mounted on the housing of the pneumatic component to reduce noise levels during exhaust operation.

[0054] Preferably, the pneumatic component may be an air dryer, which includes an air dryer body and an air dryer housing, the air dryer housing being configured to reversibly engage and disengage from the air dryer body in a non-destructive manner.

[0055] Therefore, with its compact and simple construction, the air dryer provides good noise reduction during exhaust operation.

[0056] Commercial vehicles according to one aspect of the invention include the mufflers or pneumatic systems or pneumatic components disclosed herein for use in vehicles.

[0057] Therefore, a commercial vehicle is provided that utilizes and thus achieves good noise reduction (particularly by further reducing the maximum noise level in the initial stage of exhaust operation). The commercial vehicle is configured such that the muffler housing components include a delay structure (as discussed herein). Therefore, noise pollution can be suppressed more effectively compared to conventional muffler configurations.

[0058] According to another aspect of the invention, a method of venting gas from a vehicle's pneumatic system includes venting the gas through a muffler. The muffler includes a muffler housing component defining a container for a noise-damping mesh material. The muffler housing component includes an outer wall extending circumferentially about a central axis of the muffler housing component. The outer wall includes a first axial end and a second axial end. A mounting structure for mounting the muffler housing component is arranged at the first axial end of the outer wall. A plurality of gas outlet passages are formed through the muffler housing component in at least the outer wall. The muffler housing component includes an end wall extending from the second axial end of the outer wall toward the central axis. The muffler housing component includes a delay structure including at least one wall disposed in a recess formed by the end wall, and wherein the at least one wall protrudes from the end wall toward the first axial end. Venting the gas includes reducing the flow rate of gas exiting through the gas outlet passages during at least a portion of the exhaust operation by means of the delay structure.

[0059] This method achieves various effects. A delay structure is disposed within a recess formed by the end walls and reduces the outflow of gas during at least a portion of the exhaust operation. Therefore, the delay structure retains the construction space available for noise damping mesh material while contributing to a reduction in noise levels during at least the initial phase of the exhaust operation. More specifically, the recess with the delay structure provides additional volume for gas to flow into, and the delay structure prevents gas from leaving the outlet passage along a straight flow path. The delay structure provides baffle walls within the recess that force gas already in the recess to pass along a gas flow path, which, due to the delay structure, has a geometry (such as a tortuous or labyrinthine shape) that slows the outflow of at least a portion of the gas during the initial phase of the exhaust operation. Compared to a silencer without a recess or delay structure, this affects the pressure drop during the initial phase of the exhaust operation and reduces the maximum noise level generated.

[0060] Preferably, the delay structure can reduce the pressure drop at least in the initial stage of the exhaust operation.

[0061] Therefore, the maximum noise level should be reduced during at least the initial stage of the exhaust operation.

[0062] The optional features of the method of emitting gases and the resulting effects correspond to the optional features discussed in conjunction with mufflers, pneumatic components for vehicles, pneumatic systems for vehicles, and / or commercial vehicles.

[0063] Preferably, the method can be performed by or using the mufflers, pneumatic components, pneumatic systems for vehicles and / or commercial vehicles disclosed herein.

[0064] According to another aspect of the invention, there are provided: a method of using a muffler; a pneumatic component for a vehicle; a pneumatic system for a vehicle; and / or a method of venting gas to establish an airflow, wherein at least a portion of the gas entering the muffler is guided by a delay structure along gas flow paths within a recess, these gas flow paths delaying the outflow of gas through the recess in at least the initial phase of the exhaust operation.

[0065] Therefore, a compact and simple muffler configuration is used to achieve the maximum reduction in noise level.

[0066] Various effects and advantages are achieved through mufflers, pneumatic components for vehicles, and the systems and methods disclosed herein, including reducing the maximum noise level encountered in the initial stage of exhaust using a simple construction. Attached Figure Description

[0067] Further embodiments and configurations are defined by the dependent claims. These and other aspects of the invention will be apparent from and further explained by reference to the embodiments described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0068] Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional view of the muffler according to an embodiment;

[0069] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of an embodiment of the muffler housing component of the muffler;

[0070] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A partial sectional view of the muffler housing component;

[0071] Figure 4 yes Figure 2 A perspective detail of the muffler housing component;

[0072] Figure 5 yes Figure 2 A plan view of the muffler housing components;

[0073] Figure 6 This is a plan view of another embodiment of the muffler housing component of the muffler according to the embodiment;

[0074] Figure 7 This is a plan view of another embodiment of the muffler housing component according to the embodiment;

[0075] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of the muffler, used to illustrate its operation;

[0076] Figure 9 It is a graph representing the pressure drop during the exhaust operation;

[0077] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of a pneumatic system including a muffler housing component according to an embodiment;

[0078] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of a pneumatic system component for a vehicle, including a muffler housing component, according to an embodiment.

[0079] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of a pneumatic system for a vehicle, including a muffler housing component, according to an embodiment, the pneumatic system being configured as a gas supply system;

[0080] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of a pneumatic system for a vehicle, including a muffler housing component, according to an embodiment, the pneumatic system being configured as a gas supply system;

[0081] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of a pneumatic system for a vehicle, including a muffler housing component, according to an embodiment, the pneumatic system being configured as a gas supply system;

[0082] Figure 15This is a schematic diagram of a pneumatic system for a vehicle, including a muffler housing component, according to an embodiment, the pneumatic system being configured as a pneumatic or electro-pneumatic braking system;

[0083] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of a pneumatic system for a vehicle, including a muffler housing component, according to an embodiment, the pneumatic system being configured as a leveling system;

[0084] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of a pneumatic system for a vehicle, including a muffler housing component, according to an embodiment, the pneumatic system being configured as a gas spring system;

[0085] Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram of a commercial vehicle;

[0086] Figure 19 It is a flowchart of the method for emitting gases; and

[0087] Figure 20 This is a flowchart of the usage method. Detailed Implementation

[0088] Embodiments of the invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, similar or identical reference numerals denote elements having similar or identical configurations and / or functions.

[0089] As used herein, the term "silencer" refers to a component or assembly configured to reduce noise levels as gas passes through it. A silencer can be configured to reduce noise levels as gas is discharged. A silencer can be configured to convert at least a portion of the kinetic energy of the airflow into heat (e.g., heat received by damping material within the silencer housing components) to contribute to noise reduction.

[0090] As used herein, the term "gas" encompasses gaseous mixtures. Gases can be, in particular, air, but are not limited to this.

[0091] As used herein, the term "pneumatic component" encompasses electro-pneumatic components, and the term "pneumatic system" encompasses electro-pneumatic systems.

[0092] As used herein, the term “emission” refers to the discharge of gas from a pneumatic component or pneumatic system into the ambient atmosphere.

[0093] As used herein, the term "delay structure" refers to at least one wall that protrudes from the end wall of a muffler and is configured to delay the outflow of gas through the delay structure, for example, by allowing gas to expand in the space along the at least one wall and by defining a nonlinear (e.g., tortuous and / or labyrinthine) gas flow path.

[0094] Figure 1This is a cross-sectional view of a muffler 50 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 This is a perspective view of an embodiment of the muffler housing component 10 of the muffler 50. Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A partial cross-sectional view of the muffler housing component 10. Figure 4 yes Figure 2 A perspective detail of the muffler housing component 10. Figure 5 yes Figure 2 A plan view of the muffler housing component 10. The muffler 50 includes the muffler housing component 10 defining a container 15. The muffler 50 includes noise damping mesh material 40 received within the container 15. The muffler 50 includes a mating housing component configured for mating engagement with the muffler housing component 10. Figure 1 As shown, the mating housing component can be a mating housing component 51 configured as a cover, which is configured to engage with the muffler housing component 10. The mating housing component can also be configured as a pneumatic component housing, such as an APU or an air dryer, to which the muffler housing component 10, having noise damping mesh material 40, can be directly engaged.

[0095] The muffler housing component 10 has a central axis 13. The muffler housing component 10 includes an outer wall 20 and an end wall 30. The outer wall 20 extends circumferentially about the central axis 13. The outer wall 20 may include a cylindrical or truncated conical outer wall portion. The outer wall 20 extends along the central axis from a first axial end 21 at a first plane 11 to a second axial end 22 at a second plane 12. The first axial end 21 is an axial end provided with a mounting structure 25 for mounting the muffler housing component 10. The mounting structure 25 may include a plurality of engaging members 25a, 25b, 25c arranged on the first axial end 21. The first axial end 21 is the axial end where airflow enters the muffler housing component 10. The second axial end 22 is another axial end provided with a plurality of gas outlet passages 23. At least some of these gas outlet passages 23 may each have a groove configuration and extend from a first passage end 24.1 to a second passage end 24.2, wherein the second passage end 24.2 is spaced further from the first plane 11 than the first passage end 24.1. The first passage end 24.1 and the second passage end 24.2 for the gas outlet passage 24 are schematically shown, but several other or all of these gas outlet passages 23 may have the same configuration, i.e., a groove shape with an extension from the first passage end 24.1 to the second passage end 24.2. The gas outlet passages 23 may be regularly or irregularly distributed around the perimeter of the outer wall 20.

[0096] End wall 26 extends generally transversely to the central axis 13. End wall 26 is shaped to form a recess 29. End wall 26 includes a recess forming portion 28 that is curved or angled relative to the second plane 12 to define the recess 29. Recess forming portion 28 may have other configurations. For illustration, recess forming portion 28 may be composed of planar portions that extend from outer wall 20 and provide space (recess 29) for receiving the at least one wall 31, 32, 33, 34. Muffler housing component 10 includes a delay structure 30 that includes at least one wall 31, 32, 33, 34 projecting from end wall 26 toward first plane 11. At least one wall 31, 32, 33, 34 of delay structure 30 may project from inner surface 27 of end wall 26 (i.e., inner surface 27 facing noise damping mesh material 40). The at least one wall 31, 32, 33, 34 may comprise a plurality of walls having different heights measured from the inner surface 27, or may comprise a continuous wall having a height varying along the extension direction of the continuous wall as measured from the inner surface 27. The at least one wall 31, 32, 33, 34 may be configured to support the noise damping mesh material 40 on the free end edges of the at least one wall 31, 32, 33, 34. The at least one wall 31, 32, 33, 34 may be configured such that each of the at least one wall 31, 32, 33, 34 is flush with and does not protrude beyond the plane (e.g., second plane 12) where the second passage end 24.2 of the plurality of gas outlet passages 23 is located (e.g., flush with this plane). The at least one wall 31, 32, 33, 34 of the delay structure may be completely contained within the recess 29 without protruding toward the first plane 11 beyond the second plane 12. The at least one wall 31, 32, 33, 34 may include a wall having a spatially varying height as measured from the inner surface 27 to form an abutting surface that is generally planar for the noise damping mesh material 40.

[0097] The at least one wall 31, 32, 33, 34 arranged in the recess 29 provides baffles that deflect a portion of the airflow entering the recess 29. Thus, the at least one wall 31, 32, 33, 34 is configured to define a tortuous and / or labyrinthine flow path that prevents gas from flowing along a straight path from the central region of the recess 29 toward the plurality of gas outlet passages 23. The at least one wall 31, 32, 33, 34 can have any one or any combination of various configurations to achieve this effect. The at least one wall can include a plurality of sequences 45, 48 of walls, each sequence having a triangular shape in a viewing direction parallel to the central axis 13. The plurality of sequences of walls 45, 48 may have vertices 46.3 at the junctions of the triangular legs (sides 46.1, 46.2), and the straight lines along which the vertices are arranged for different sequences of the plurality of sequences 45, 48 may be angled relative to each other. Alternatively or additionally, when viewed in a direction parallel to the central axis 13, the delay structure may include a wall 49 having a helical shape.

[0098] The gas guiding structure 30 may support the end surface 41 of the noise damping mesh material 40 thereon. The silencer 50 may be configured such that the gas flow path defined by the at least one wall 31, 32, 33, 34 in the recess 30 is free of the noise damping mesh material 40.

[0099] The muffler 50 with this configuration is characterized by its ability to synergistically influence pressure drop and reduce the maximum noise level generated at the start of exhaust operation. Recess 29 allows a portion of the airflow entering the muffler 50 to expand within it, where the delay structures 30 form baffles that prevent gas entering the recess 29 in the radially central portion from exiting directly through the gas outlet passage 23 along a straight flow path. This results in improved noise attenuation.

[0100] To provide sufficient space for the delay structure and to contribute to efficient noise reduction, the silencer 50 can be configured such that the depth 17 of the recess divided by the distance 16 between the second plane 12 (e.g., the plane where the second end 24.2 of the gas outlet passage 23 is located) and the first plane 11 is at least 0.1, at least 0.15, or at least 0.2. The depth 17 of the recess 29 is measured parallel to the central axis 13 between the second plane 12 (e.g., the plane where the second passage end 24.2 is located) and a point on the inner surface 27 of the end wall 26, which has the largest distance from the second plane 12 (measured parallel to the central axis 13) among all points on the inner surface of the end wall.

[0101] The muffler 50 includes a mating housing component 51. The muffler housing component 10 includes a mounting structure 25 configured to secure the muffler housing component 10 to the mating housing component 51. The mating housing component 51 includes a mating engagement structure 55 configured to engage with the mounting structure 25. The engagement structure 25 can be configured to engage, for example, in a non-destructive, reversibly releasable manner. The mating engagement structure 55 can include a plurality of mating engagement features (such as orifices) configured to reversibly releasably engage with engagement members 25a, 25b, 25c of the muffler housing component 10. The mating engagement features can be disposed on an edge 54 of the mating housing component 51. The edge 54 can extend circumferentially around and along at least a portion of the outer wall 20 and can overlap said portion of the outer wall 20.

[0102] The muffler 50 includes a gas inlet 52. This gas inlet 52 may be located at a mating housing component 51. The mating housing component 51 may include an attachment flange 53 configured to secure the muffler 50. The attachment flange 53 may be configured to secure the muffler 50 to an exhaust port or exhaust line. The attachment flange 53 may include a plurality of flange portions, each flange portion being separated from its adjacent flange portion by a gap in an unbiased position, in which the compression band does not apply radial force to the attachment flange 53. The muffler 50 may include a fastening band (such as a metal band 54) and fastening screws for fastening and securing the fastening band for mounting the muffler 50.

[0103] Figure 2 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 This is a perspective view of an embodiment of the muffler housing component 10, including the delay structure 30. When viewed in a direction parallel to the central axis 13, the delay structure 30 may include several walls having a triangular shape. Although in Figure 2 , Figure 4 and Figure 5The diagram shows triangular walls, but when viewed in a plan view parallel to the central axis 13, the muffler housing component 10 may have a configuration in which the walls have shapes other than triangles. The plurality of walls may include a sequence 45 of triangular walls. The sequence 45 of triangular walls includes a triangular wall 46, which, in a plan view viewed in a direction parallel to the central axis 13, has: a triangular side 46.1; another triangular side 46.2; and a vertex 46.3, along which sides 46.1 and the other side 46.2 are interconnected. Each triangular wall in the sequence 45 may have a similar shape, wherein the angle between sides 46.1 and 46.2 is the same for each triangle in the sequence 45. These triangular walls (such as triangular wall 46 in the same sequence 45 and adjacent additional triangular walls 47) may be arranged in a nested manner, wherein the vertex of the additional triangular wall 47 extends between sides 46.1 and 46.2 of the triangular wall 46. The additional sequence 48 of the triangular wall can be offset at an angle relative to sequence 47. The straight lines connecting the vertices 46.3 of the various sequences 45, 48 used for the triangular wall can be at an angle relative to each other and can each pass through the central axis 13. As described above, although in Figure 2 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 The diagram shows triangular walls, but when viewed in a plan view, each wall in the sequence can have a shape other than a triangle.

[0104] The sequences 45, 48 of triangular walls can extend coplanarly to provide a flat contact surface for supporting the noise damping mesh material 40. The free end edges of the triangular walls in each sequence of 45, 48 can extend in the same plane, which can be coplanar with the plane extending from the second end 24.2 of the gas outlet passage 23, or can be further away from the first plane 11 than the plane extending from the second end 24.2 of the gas outlet passage 23.

[0105] To provide a baffle that effectively forces gas through the recess 29 along a tortuous and / or labyrinthine gas flow path, at least one wall of the gas guiding structure 30 may have a spatially varying wall height, measured from the inner surface 27. This is in Figure 3 As shown in the partial sectional view, Figure 3End wall 26 and one or more walls 31, 32 extending therefrom are schematically depicted. While reference will be made to several walls 31, 32 (such as the different triangular walls in sequences 45, 48), the interpretation also applies to different portions of a single wall (such as a spiral wall). Walls 31, 32 extend from wall base ends 35, 36 to free end edges 37, 38, respectively. Free end edges 37, 38 may be coplanar. For this purpose, the gas guiding structure 30 may be configured such that: wall 31 may have a wall height 31.1 measured from wall base end 35 to free end edge 37, and another wall 32 may have an additional wall height 32.1 measured from another wall base end 36 to another free end edge 38, the additional wall height 32.1 being different from wall height 31.1, and the additional free end edge 38 being coplanar with free end edge 36.

[0106] To provide a baffle that effectively forces gas to flow through the recess 29 along a tortuous and / or labyrinthine gas flow path, at least one wall of the gas guiding structure 30 may define gas flow channels, which, in a plan view taken along the central axis 13, have angled and / or curved portions. For illustration, as... Figure 4 As shown, the gas guiding structure 40 includes a plurality of walls defining a gas flow channel 42 from a radially central region of the recess to a gas outlet passage 23, wherein the gas flow channel 42 includes at least one angled portion 43. This causes the airflow 44.1, 44.2 from the central portion to the gas outlet passage 23 to follow a tortuous, labyrinthine, or winding path.

[0107] Various embodiments of the gas guiding structure 30 can be used in the muffler 50, as shown in the reference. Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 As further illustrated.

[0108] Figure 5A plan view of an embodiment of the muffler housing component 10 is shown, wherein the gas guiding structure 30 includes: a plurality of sequences 45, 45.2, 45.3, 45.4, 45.5 of triangular walls offset from each other at an angle; and a plurality of additional sequences 48, 48.2, 48.3, 48.4, 48.5 of walls (e.g., triangular walls, but not limited thereto) that are offset from each other at an angle and angularly offset from the sequences 45, 45.2, 45.3, 45.4, 45.5 of the walls. The gas guiding structure 30 may include at least three, at least four, or at least five sequences 45, 45.2, 45.3, 45.4, 45.5 of the walls, and at least three, at least four, or at least five additional sequences 48, 48.2, 48.3, 48.4, 48.5 of the walls, but is not limited thereto. The sequences may include other numbers of walls, which, when viewed in a plan view, may be triangular in shape or may have shapes other than triangular. Each of sequences 45, 45.2, 45.3, 45.4, and 45.5 may have the same number (optionally also the same geometry) of walls (which may be triangular walls, but are not limited thereto). Each of the additional sequences 48, 48.2, 48.3, 48.4, and 48.5 may have the same number (optionally also the same geometry) of walls (which may be triangular walls, but are not limited thereto). The number of triangular walls in each of the additional sequences 48, 48.2, 48.3, 48.4, and 48.5 may differ from the number of walls in each of sequences 45, 45.2, 45.3, 45.4, and 45.5. The gas guiding structure 30 can be configured such that, in a planar view parallel to the central axis 13, one of the sequences 45, 45.2, 45.3, 45.4, 45.5 and another sequence of the triangular walls 48, 48.2, 48.3, 48.4, 48.5 alternate as a function of the angle about the central axis 13.

[0109] Figure 6A plan view of another embodiment of the muffler housing component 10 is shown, wherein the gas guiding structure 30 includes: a plurality of sequences 45, 45.2, 45.3, 45.4 of walls (e.g., triangular walls, but not limited thereto) offset at an angle to each other; and a plurality of additional sequences 48, 48.2, 48.3, 48.4 of walls (e.g., triangular walls, but not limited thereto) offset at an angle to each other and to the sequences 45, 45.2, 45.3, 45.4 of walls (which may be triangular walls, but not limited thereto). The sequences may include other numbers of walls, which, when viewed in the plan view, may be triangular in shape, or may have shapes other than triangular. The gas guiding structure 30 may include: at least three or at least four sequences 45, 45.2, 45.3, 45.4 of walls (which may be triangular walls, but are not limited thereto); and at least three or at least four additional sequences 48, 48.2, 48.3, 48.4 of walls (which may be triangular walls, but are not limited thereto). Each sequence of sequences 45, 45.2, 45.3, 45.4 may have the same number (optionally also the same geometry) of walls. Each of the additional sequences 48, 48.2, 48.3, 48.4 may have the same number (optionally also the same geometry) of walls. The number of walls in each of the additional sequences 48, 48.2, 48.3, 48.4 may differ from the number of walls in each of sequences 45, 45.2, 45.3, 45.4. The gas guiding structure 30 can be configured such that, in a plan view parallel to the central axis 13, one of the sequences 45, 45.2, 45.3, 45.4 and another sequence of the wall 48, 48.2, 48.3, 48.4 alternate as a function of the angle about the central axis 13.

[0110] like Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, different numbers and arrangements of walls can be achieved in the silencer 30. When viewed in a plan view parallel to the central axis 13, the shape of the walls is not limited to a triangular shape.

[0111] Figure 7 A plan view of another embodiment of the muffler housing component 10 is shown, wherein the gas guiding structure 30 is formed by a single wall 49, which, in a plan view viewed along the central axis 13, has a helical shape. The height of the wall 49 varies continuously to ensure that the upper edge remains in a single plane, thereby providing support for the noise damping mesh material 40.

[0112] Although combined Figures 2 to 7Exemplary embodiments of the gas guiding structure 30 have been discussed in detail, but various alternatives or other structures can be used to delay gas outflow by forcing gas to flow through the recess 29 along a non-linear radial gas flow path.

[0113] Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of muffler 50 is shown to further illustrate its operation. During exhaust operation, muffler 50 receives a gas inflow 56. A first portion 57 of the airflow is able to flow through the noise-damping mesh material to the gas outlet passage 23 without having to pass through the recess 29. A second portion 58 of the airflow flows through the recess 29, wherein the outflow of the second portion 58 through the gas outlet passage 23 is delayed by the delay structure 30. Thus, compared to a configuration in which the recess 29 is not provided, muffler 50 modifies the pressure drop in at least the initial stage of exhaust operation and reduces the maximum noise level in the initial stage.

[0114] Figure 9 It is a graph showing how the construction of the muffler 50 changes the airflow characteristics. Figure 9 The pressure as a function of time is shown along the time axis 62 and the pressure axis 61. Figure 9 A comparative pressure curve 63 is shown, which represents the pressure change (e.g., the hydrostatic pressure at the gas outflow passage 23) of a conventional muffler that does not have a delay structure 30 provided in the recess 29 and does not have the recess 29. Figure 9 The pressure curve 70 of a muffler 50 according to an embodiment of the invention is shown. The muffler 50 includes a recess 29 and a delay structure 30, but otherwise has a muffler housing component 10 of the same size and configuration, in which noise-damping mesh material 40 is held. In the muffler 50 according to this embodiment, the pressure drop is modified compared to conventional mufflers, thereby reducing the maximum noise level during the initial phase of exhaust operation.

[0115] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of a pneumatic system 80 including air dryers 82 and 83. Air dryers 82 and 83 include an air dryer body 82 and an air dryer housing 83. The air dryer body 82 includes a supply line connector 88, a consumer line connector 89, and an air dryer exhaust port. A silencer housing component 10 is disposed at the air dryer exhaust port to realize a silencer 50. Air dryers 82 and 83 are configured to communicate the supply line connector 88 with the gas inlet of the air dryer housing 83. Air dryers 82 and 83 are configured to communicate the gas outlet of the air dryer housing 83 with the consumer line connector 88 via another internal conduit of the air dryer body 82. Air dryers 82 and 83 are configured to discharge gas, for example, during regeneration, through the exhaust port and the silencer housing component 10 disposed at the exhaust port.

[0116] The pneumatic system 80 includes a compressor 81. The compressor 81 is configured to compress ambient air drawn in via an intake opening 85.1 that can be disposed on an intake duct 85. The intake duct 85 may be directly connected to the compressor 81. The pneumatic system 80 includes a supply line 86 that is directly or indirectly connected to the compressor 81 and a supply line connector 88. The pneumatic system 80 includes: a consumer line 87 that is directly connected to a consumer line connector 89; and a pneumatic consumer system 84 that includes one or more pneumatic consumers. The one or more pneumatic consumers may include any one or any combination of the following: an air supply system; a pneumatic leveling system; an electro-pneumatic leveling system; a pneumatic braking system; an electro-pneumatic braking system; a parking brake system; a sensor cleaning system; a pneumatic or electro-pneumatic door actuation system; but is not limited thereto.

[0117] Figure 11 A pneumatic system component 90 is shown. The pneumatic system component 90 is configured for use in a vehicle's pneumatic system. The pneumatic system component 90 includes: a component housing 100; at least one valve 95 disposed within the housing 100; and a plurality of ports disposed on the housing 100 in direct or indirect fluid communication with the valve 95 of the pneumatic system component 90. The plurality of ports includes at least an exhaust port 93. A muffler housing component 10 is configured to attach to the component housing 100 at the exhaust port 93 (e.g., an attachment capable of reversible, non-destructive release) to realize a muffler 50. The plurality of ports may include: a supply port 91 configured to receive pressurized gas supplied by a gas supply system; and / or an exhaust port 92 configured in fluid communication with at least one pneumatic consumer (e.g., for bidirectional fluid communication). The pneumatic system component 90 may include a first fluid connection 101 that establishes (direct or indirect) fluid communication between the supply port 91 and the first port of the valve 95. The first fluid connection 101 can be directly connected to the supply port 91 and the first port of valve 95. The pneumatic system component 90 may include a second fluid connection 102, which establishes (direct or indirect) fluid communication between the discharge port 92 and the second port of valve 95. The second fluid connection 102 can be directly connected to the discharge port 92 and the first port of valve 95. The pneumatic system component 90 may include a third fluid connection 103, which establishes (direct or indirect) fluid communication between the exhaust port 93 and the third port of valve 95. The third fluid connection 103 can be directly connected to the exhaust port 93 and the third port of valve 95. The first fluid connection 101, the second fluid connection 102, and the third fluid connection 103 can be integrated within the component housing 100.

[0118] Pneumatic system component 90 can be configured as a component for an electro-pneumatic system. Pneumatic component 90 can be an APU or a component of an APU. The at least one valve 95 can include one or more solenoid valves. Pneumatic system component 90 can include an electrical interface 96. Electrical interface 96 can be configured to be connected to a control unit, a data bus, or at least one actuator operable by a vehicle operator. Pneumatic system component 90 can include: an electronic component 94 that can be housed within component housing 100; or a dedicated electronic component housing attached to component housing 100. Electronic component 94 can be configured to selectively actuate at least one solenoid valve in response to a signal or control data received at electrical interface 96. Electronic component 94 can include one or more circuits 99. The one or more circuits can include, but are not limited to, any one, several, or any combination of integrated circuits, integrated semiconductor circuits, processors, controllers, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), and field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs). Electronic component 94 can be communicatively coupled to electrical interface 96 via at least one electrical connection 97. The electronic component 94 can be connected to the solenoid valve 95 via at least one additional electrical connector 98.

[0119] Figure 12A schematic diagram of a pneumatic system 110 for a vehicle is shown. The pneumatic system 110 is configured as a gas supply system. The pneumatic system 110 includes an air dryer 112. The pneumatic system 110 includes a supply line 121 directly connected to the air dryer 112 to supply compressed gas to the air dryer 112 and / or deliver gas to at least one exhaust line 123, 124 during air dryer regeneration operations and / or other exhaust operations. The pneumatic system 110 includes a pneumatic consumer line 122 directly connected to the air dryer 112 and configured to supply compressed gas to a pneumatic consumer system including at least one pneumatic consumer. The pneumatic consumer line 122 can be configured to supply gas from the pneumatic consumer system to the air dryer 112, for example, to perform a regeneration operation. The pneumatic system 110 includes at least one exhaust line 123, 124 configured to discharge gas to the ambient atmosphere via a silencer 50 according to an embodiment. The at least one exhaust line 123 includes an exhaust line 123 directly connected to a supply line 121 and a control valve 116. The at least one exhaust line 123 includes an additional exhaust line 124 directly connected to the control valve 116 and a gas inlet 52 of the silencer 50. The gas supply system 110 includes control electronics 115, such as a control device, coupled to the control valve 116 via an electrical connection 125. The control electronics 115 is configured to control the control valve 116 to: selectively establish fluid communication between the supply line 121 and the silencer 50; and / or selectively disconnect the silencer 50 from the supply line 121.

[0120] Figure 13 A schematic diagram of a pneumatic system 110 for a vehicle is shown. The pneumatic system 110 is configured as a gas supply system. [The following text appears to be unrelated and possibly a separate sentence fragment: Already combined...] Figure 12 The components discussed are used for Figure 12The same reference numerals are used in the accompanying drawings. The pneumatic system 110 also includes a pressurized gas source 111. The pressurized gas source 111 may include a compressor and / or a pressure reservoir. The pressurized gas source 111 may include an inlet for ambient air and may be configured to compress ambient air to provide pressurized gas. The pressurized gas source 111 may be connected directly or via at least one valve to the supply line 121. The pneumatic system 110 also includes a pneumatic consumer system 114. The pneumatic consumer system 114 includes at least one pneumatic consumer connected directly or via at least one fluid loop component to the pneumatic consumer line 122. The pneumatic consumer line 122 includes at least one regeneration valve 113 configured to be activated to selectively perform regeneration of the desiccant in the air dryer 112. When regeneration is performed, gas from the pneumatic consumer system 114 through the gas dryer 112 may be discharged via a muffler 50 connected to the at least one exhaust line 123, 124.

[0121] Figure 14 A schematic diagram of a pneumatic system 110 for a vehicle is shown. The pneumatic system 110 is configured as a gas supply system. [The following text appears to be unrelated and possibly a separate sentence fragment: Already combined...] Figure 12 and / or Figure 13 The components discussed are used for Figure 12 and / or Figure 13 The same reference numerals are used in the accompanying drawings. The pneumatic system 110 also includes at least one filter 127. An exhaust line 123 is directly connected to a port of the filter 127. The pneumatic system 110 also includes a filter connection line 126 directly connected to another port of the filter 127 and to a control valve 116.

[0122] Figure 15A schematic diagram of a vehicle 130 (e.g., a multi-purpose vehicle 130) including a pneumatic system 110 is shown. The pneumatic system 110 may be configured as a braking system, such as an electronic braking system (EBS). The pneumatic system 110 configured as a braking system includes at least one pneumatic system component (such as a front axle adjuster 136 and / or a rear axle adjuster 137), said at least one pneumatic system component including a muffler housing component 10. The vehicle 130 includes a front axle 134.1 and a rear axle 134.2 or several rear axles. The vehicle 130 includes several wheels 133. The vehicle 130 includes one or more sensors, such as wheel speed sensors 132 associated with the several wheels 133. The pneumatic system 110 includes several brake cylinders 131. The pneumatic system 110 includes control electronics 135 (such as a control unit 135) coupled to the front axle adjuster 136 and the rear axle adjuster 137 via at least one electrical connection 141. The front axle adjuster 136 includes an electrical interface 142 for communicatively interfacing with control electronics 135. The rear axle adjuster 137 includes an additional electrical interface 142' for communicatively interfacing with control electronics 135. The front axle adjuster 136 has at least one discharge port in fluid communication with a brake cylinder 131 for the front axle wheel. The rear axle adjuster 137 has at least one additional discharge port in fluid communication with a brake cylinder 131 for the rear axle wheel. The front axle adjuster 136 and / or the rear axle adjuster 137 may each include a muffler housing component 10 to realize a muffler 50. The pneumatic system 110 may include... Figure 12 , Figure 13 and Figure 14 The fluid supply system in any of the figures is used to supply pressurized gas to regulators 136, 137. Pneumatic system 110 may include a supply system that includes at least a compressor 111 and a pressure reservoir 138, wherein the pressure reservoir is connected via a control valve 138 to a supply line for the regulator and an outlet port of compressor 111.

[0123] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of vehicle 130, which includes a pneumatic system 150 configured as an electro-pneumatic cabin leveling system. The electro-pneumatic cabin leveling system 150 is configured to change the tilt angle of the cabin 152 of vehicle 130 relative to chassis 151. The pneumatic system 150 includes at least a pneumatic adjusting element 153 and additional pneumatic adjusting elements 153', each of which is configured to change the tilt angle of the cabin 152. The pneumatic adjusting elements 153 and additional pneumatic adjusting elements 153' can be configured as inflatable airbags. The pneumatic system 150 includes an electro-pneumatic control device 154. The electro-pneumatic control device 154 includes at least two solenoid valves 155 (wherein... Figure 16(The system with at least two solenoid valves is only schematically indicated in the diagram). An electro-pneumatic control device 154 is arranged to selectively actuate the at least two solenoid valves 155, such that compressed air received at the compressed gas inlet 156 is supplied to one or both of pneumatic adjustment element 153 and another pneumatic adjustment element 153'. The electro-pneumatic control device 154 is arranged to selectively actuate the at least two solenoid valves 155, such that one or both of pneumatic adjustment element 153 and another pneumatic adjustment element 153' are discharged via the exhaust port of the electro-pneumatic control device 154. A muffler housing component 10 is arranged at the exhaust port of the electro-pneumatic control device 154 to realize a muffler 50. The electro-pneumatic control device 154 includes a consumer port 158, each consumer port 158 ​​being connected via a connecting line 159 to one of the pneumatic adjustment elements 153, 153'. The pneumatic system 150 is configured to allow adjustment of different portions of the carriage 152 along the adjustment path 160 to adjust the tilt and / or height, so that the carriage 152 has a desired attitude relative to the direction of gravity. For illustration, the pneumatic system 150 can be configured to allow the carriage 152 to orient its floor perpendicular to the direction of gravity when the chassis 151 is tilted. The solenoid valve 155 is capable of being actuated in a conventional manner in response to mechanical linkages, signals, or data received by the electro-pneumatic control device 154. The pneumatic system 150 may include a reference... Figure 12 , Figure 13 and Figure 14 Explanation of the gas supply system. The pneumatic system 150 includes at least a compressor 111 and a gas reservoir 139, wherein the gas reservoir 139 is connected to an electro-pneumatic control device 154 via at least one control valve 138.

[0124] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of vehicle 130, which has a pneumatic system 170 configured as an electro-pneumatic vibration absorber system. The pneumatic system 170 includes at least one pneumatic vibration absorber 173, each disposed between chassis 151 and cab 152, and an additional pneumatic vibration absorber 173'. The pneumatic vibration absorbers 173 and the additional pneumatic vibration absorbers 173' can be configured as pressure-adjustable airbags. The pneumatic system 170 includes an electro-pneumatic control device 174. The electro-pneumatic control device 174 includes at least one solenoid valve or several solenoid valves 175 (which... Figure 17(Only schematically shown as a box). The electro-pneumatic control device 174 is configured to selectively actuate the at least one solenoid valve or the plurality of solenoid valves 175 such that: compressed gas received at the gas supply port is discharged to the pneumatic vibration absorber 173 and the additional pneumatic vibration absorber 173'; and / or the pneumatic vibration absorber 173 and the additional pneumatic vibration absorber 173' can be discharged via the exhaust port of the electro-pneumatic control device 174. A silencer housing component 10 is arranged at the exhaust port to realize the silencer 50. The electro-pneumatic control device 174 includes at least one consumer port 178, which is connected to the pneumatic vibration absorber 173 and the additional pneumatic vibration absorber 173' via at least one connecting line 179. This configuration allows for the use of open-loop control and / or closed-loop control to control the pressure in the vibration absorbers 173, 173'. The pneumatic system 170 may include a reference Figure 12 , Figure 13 and Figure 14 The gas supply system is explained. The pneumatic system 170 includes at least a compressor 111 and a gas reservoir 139, wherein the gas reservoir 139 is connected to an electro-pneumatic control device 154 via at least one control valve 138. A solenoid valve 175 is capable of being actuated in a conventional manner in response to mechanical linkages, signals, or data received by the electro-pneumatic control device 174.

[0125] Figure 18 A schematic diagram of a vehicle configured as a commercial vehicle 130 is shown. The commercial vehicle 130 includes at least one pneumatic system 110, which includes a muffler 50 according to an embodiment. The pneumatic system 110 may include any or any combination of a supply system for supplying compressed air, a leveling system, a suspension system, a braking system, and a door actuation system.

[0126] Figure 19 This is a flowchart of a method 180 for discharging gases from pneumatic systems 80, 110, 150, and 170 of vehicle 130. This method 180 can be performed automatically by pneumatic systems 110, 130, 150, and 170, which include at least one muffler 50 according to an embodiment, or by using pneumatic systems 110, 130, 150, and 170.

[0127] Method 180 includes a process block 181 that establishes fluid communication between at least one component of a pneumatic system and an exhaust port via at least one valve. The exhaust port is a port on which a muffler 50 is directly or indirectly mounted.

[0128] Method 180 further includes a process block 182 of discharging a gas flow through a plurality of gas outlet passages 23 via a silencer 50. The discharging gas flow may include delaying at least a portion 58 of the gas flow through the gas outlet passages 23 by a delay structure 30 in the recess 29.

[0129] Figure 20 This is a flowchart of a method of use 190 using a muffler 50, a pneumatic component, a pneumatic system, a commercial vehicle, or an exhaust method according to an embodiment.

[0130] Method 190 includes a process block 191 for operating the pneumatic system of a commercial vehicle, wherein the commercial vehicle includes a muffler 50 according to an embodiment.

[0131] The method of use includes a process block 192 for performing an exhaust operation, in which the muffler 50 modifies the pressure drop during at least the initial phase of the exhaust operation by the delay structure 30 in the recess 29 to reduce the maximum noise level during the exhaust operation.

[0132] Although embodiments have been described with reference to the accompanying drawings, modifications and changes may be made in other embodiments.

[0133] For the purposes of this illustration, although embodiments in which the delay structure includes walls that have a triangular or spiral shape when viewed in a plan view have been described, other wall configurations that provide a tortuous, labyrinthine, angled, or curved gas flow path through the recess 29 may be used.

[0134] To further illustrate, the present invention can be applied to various pneumatic systems, including, but not limited to, gas supply systems configured to perform air dryer regeneration.

[0135] Embodiments of the present invention achieve various effects and advantages. The embodiments provide improved noise reduction characteristics. This facilitates compliance with prescribed noise pollution requirements, improves vehicle operator safety and / or comfort, and enhances passenger comfort.

[0136] List of reference numerals in the accompanying drawings (part of the instruction manual)

[0137] 10. Muffler housing components

[0138] 11 First plane

[0139] 12 Second plane

[0140] 13. Central Axis

[0141] 2 PM

[0142] 15 Containers

[0143] 16 Circumferential wall height

[0144] 17 Depth of recess

[0145] 20 outer wall

[0146] 21 First Axial End

[0147] 22 Second Axial End

[0148] 23 Several gas outlet pathways

[0149] 24 Gas outlet passage

[0150] 24.1 First Path End

[0151] 24.2 Second Path End

[0152] 25 Installation Structure

[0153] 25a, 25b, 25c Joint components

[0154] 26 end wall

[0155] 27 Inner Surface

[0156] 28 Concave forming part

[0157] 29 recess

[0158] 30 Delay Structure

[0159] 31 wall

[0160] 31.1 Wall height

[0161] 32 Second Wall

[0162] 32.1 Other wall heights

[0163] 33 The Third Wall

[0164] 34 The Fourth Wall

[0165] 35 Wall base end

[0166] 36 Other wall base ends

[0167] 37 Free end edge

[0168] 38 Other free end edges

[0169] 40 Noise Damping Mesh Material

[0170] 41. Surface of mesh material end

[0171] 42 Gas flow channel

[0172] 43 Angle section

[0173] 44.1 Airflow

[0174] 44.2 Airflow

[0175] 45. Sequence of triangular walls

[0176] 45.2 The Second Sequence of Triangular Walls

[0177] 45.3 The Third Sequence of Triangular Walls

[0178] 45.4 The fourth sequence of triangular walls

[0179] 45.5 The Fifth Sequence of Triangular Walls

[0180] 46. ​​Triangular wall

[0181] 46.1 Sides of a triangular veneer

[0182] 46.2 The other side of the triangle wall

[0183] 46.3 Vertex Section

[0184] 47 Other triangular walls

[0185] 48. Other sequences of triangular walls

[0186] 48.2 The second additional sequence of the triangular wall

[0187] 48.3 The third additional sequence of the triangular wall

[0188] 48.4 The fourth additional sequence of the triangular wall

[0189] 48.5 The fifth additional sequence of the triangular wall

[0190] 49 Spiral Wall

[0191] 50 silencers

[0192] 51 Matching housing components

[0193] 52 Gas Inlet

[0194] 53 Attachment flange

[0195] 54 Edge

[0196] 55 Matching joint structure

[0197] 56 Gas inflow

[0198] 57 The first part of the airflow

[0199] 58 The second part of the airflow

[0200] 61 Pressure axis

[0201] 62 Timeline

[0202] 63 Comparison of pressure curves

[0203] 70 Pressure Curve

[0204] 80 Pneumatic System

[0205] 81 Compressor

[0206] 82 Air dryer body

[0207] 83 Air dryer box

[0208] 84 Pneumatic Consumer System

[0209] 85 Intake duct

[0210] 85.1 Air intake opening

[0211] 86 Supply lines

[0212] 87 Consumer Piping

[0213] 88 Supply line connectors

[0214] 89 Consumer line connector

[0215] 90 Pneumatic system components

[0216] 91 Supply Port

[0217] 92 Discharge Port

[0218] 93 Exhaust Port

[0219] 94 Electronic Components Section

[0220] 95 Solenoid valve

[0221] 96 electrical interface

[0222] 97 Electrical connectors

[0223] 98 Other electrical connections

[0224] 99 Circuits

[0225] 101 First fluid connector

[0226] 102 Second fluid connector

[0227] 103 Third fluid connector

[0228] 110 Pneumatic systems for vehicles

[0229] 111 Pressure Gas Source

[0230] 112 Air Dryer

[0231] 113 Regeneration Valve

[0232] 114 Pneumatic Consumer System

[0233] 115 Control Electronic Devices

[0234] 116 Control Valve

[0235] 121 Supply Line

[0236] 122 Pneumatic Consumer Line

[0237] 123 Exhaust pipe

[0238] 124 Other exhaust pipes

[0239] 125 Electrical connector

[0240] 126 Filter connection line

[0241] 127 Filter

[0242] 130 vehicles

[0243] 131 Brake Cylinder

[0244] 132 wheel speed sensors

[0245] 133 rounds

[0246] 134.1 Front axle

[0247] 134.2 Rear Axle

[0248] 135 Control Electronic Devices

[0249] 136 Front Axle Adjuster

[0250] 137 Rear Axle Adjuster

[0251] 138 Control Valve

[0252] 139 Pressure Storage Unit

[0253] 141 Wire

[0254] 142 Electrical Interface

[0255] 150 Electric Pneumatic Leveling System

[0256] 151 chassis

[0257] Carriage 152

[0258] 153 Adjustment Components

[0259] 153' Other adjustment components

[0260] 154 Electro-pneumatic control device

[0261] 155 Solenoid Valve

[0262] 156 Supply Ports

[0263] 158 Discharge Port

[0264] 159 Pneumatic Consumer Line

[0265] 160 Leveling and Adjustment Path

[0266] 170 Electro-pneumatic vibration absorption system

[0267] 173 Pneumatic Vibration Absorber

[0268] 173' Additional pneumatic vibration absorber

[0269] 174 Electro-pneumatic control device

[0270] 175 Solenoid Valve

[0271] 176 Supply Ports

[0272] 178 Discharge Port

[0273] 179 Pneumatic Consumer Line

[0274] 180 methods

[0275] Process frames 181 and 182

[0276] 190 methods

[0277] 191, 192 Process frames.

Claims

1. A muffler for a pneumatic component (80; 90) or pneumatic system (110; 120; 150; 170) of a vehicle (130), said muffler (50) comprising: Noise damping mesh material (40); A muffler housing component (10) defining a container (15) for the noise damping mesh material (40), the muffler housing component (10) comprising: An outer wall (20) extends circumferentially around the central axis (13) of the muffler housing component (10), the outer wall (20) including a first axial end (21) and a second axial end (22), wherein a mounting structure (25) for mounting the muffler housing component (10) is arranged at the first axial end (21) of the outer wall (20), wherein a plurality of gas outlet passages (23) are formed through the muffler housing component (10) in at least the outer wall (20); End wall (26), said end wall (26) extending from the second axial end (22) of said outer wall (20) toward said central axis (13); and A delay structure (30) configured to reduce the flow rate of gas outflow through the plurality of gas outlet passages (23) during at least a portion of the exhaust operation, the delay structure (30) including at least one wall (31 to 34; 46, 47; 49) arranged in a recess (29) formed by the end wall (26), and wherein the delay structure (30) protrudes from the end wall (26) toward the first axial end (21).

2. The silencer (50) according to claim 1, wherein, The first axial end (21) extends along a first plane (11) perpendicular to the central axis (13). Each of the plurality of gas outlet passages (23) has a first passage end (24.1) and a second passage end (24.2), wherein the second passage end (24.2) is spaced further away from the first plane (11) than the first passage end (24.1). The second passage end (24.2) is located on a second plane (12) perpendicular to the central axis (13), and The end wall (26) includes a recess forming portion (28) that forms the recess (29) and extends at a greater distance from the first plane (11) than from the second plane (12).

3. The silencer (50) according to claim 2, wherein, The depth (17) of the recess (29) divided by the distance (16) between the second plane (12) and the first plane (11) is at least 0.1, at least 0.15, or at least 0.

2. The depth is measured between a point on the second plane (12) and the inner surface (27) of the end wall (26) parallel to the central axis (13), the point having the largest distance from the second plane (12) among all points on the inner surface (27) of the end wall (26).

4. The silencer (50) according to claim 2 or claim 3, wherein, The dimensions of the at least one wall (31 to 34; 46, 47; 49) are designed such that the at least one wall does not protrude beyond the second plane (12) toward the first plane (11), and / or the at least one wall does not intersect with the second plane (12).

5. The silencer (50) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, Each of the at least one wall (31 to 34; 46, 47; 49) includes a wall base (35, 36) and a free end edge (37, 38) at the end wall (26), wherein the free end edge (37, 38) abuts against the noise damping mesh material (40).

6. The silencer (50) according to claim 5, wherein, The wall base (35, 36) is spaced apart from the noise damping mesh material (40).

7. The silencer (50) according to claim 5 or claim 6, wherein, The at least one wall (31 to 34; 46, 47; 49) forms a gas flow channel (42), the gas flow channel including an angled portion (43) and / or a curved portion (43).

8. The silencer (50) according to claim 7, wherein, Some or all of the gas flow channel (42) does not contain the noise damping mesh material (40).

9. The silencer (50) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The at least one wall (31 to 34; 46, 47; 49) mechanically supports and holds the noise damping material (40).

10. The silencer (50) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The outer wall (20), the end wall (26), and at least one wall (31 to 34; 46, 47; 49) are formed as an integrally molded body; or The at least one wall (31 to 34; 46; 47; 49) is an insert in an integrally molded body including the outer wall (20) and the end wall (36).

11. A pneumatic system (110; 120; 150; 170) or pneumatic component (80; 90) for a vehicle (130), comprising a muffler (50) according to any one of the preceding claims.

12. A commercial vehicle (130) comprising a muffler (50) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, a pneumatic system (110; 120; 150; 170) according to claim 11, or a pneumatic component (80; 90) according to claim 11.

13. A method for emitting gases in a vehicle (130), the method comprising: The gas is discharged through a muffler (50), wherein the muffler (50) includes a muffler housing component (10) defining a container (15) for a noise damping mesh material (40), the muffler housing component (10) comprising: An outer wall (20) extends circumferentially around the central axis (13) of the muffler housing component (10), the outer wall (20) including a first axial end (21) and a second axial end (22), wherein a mounting structure (25) for mounting the muffler housing component (10) is arranged at the first axial end (21) of the outer wall (20), wherein a plurality of gas outlet passages (23) are formed through the muffler housing component (10) in at least the outer wall (20); End wall (26), said end wall (26) extending from the second axial end (22) of said outer wall (20) toward said central axis (13); and A delay structure (30) comprising at least one wall (31 to 34; 46, 47; 49) disposed in a recess (29), wherein the recess (29) is formed by the end wall (26), and wherein the at least one wall (31 to 34; 46, 47; 49) protrudes from the end wall (26) toward the first axial end (21); The venting of the gas includes reducing the flow rate of gas outflow through the plurality of gas outlet passages (23) during at least a portion of the venting operation by means of the delay structure (30).

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein, The delay structure (30) reduces the pressure drop at least during the initial phase of the exhaust operation.

15. The method according to claim 13 or claim 14, wherein, The muffler (50) is the muffler (50) according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

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