DEVICE AND METHOD FOR ADJUSTING THE HEIGHT OF A VEHICLE

Abstract

Device for adjusting the height of a vehicle, comprising: a vehicle height adjustment unit (40) configured to adjust the height of the vehicle; a hydraulic pressure supply unit (30) configured to supply hydraulic pressure supplied from a braking device (10) to a brake caliper (20) for braking the vehicle to a vehicle height adjustment unit (40); and a control unit (80) configured to control hydraulic pressure supplied from the braking device (10) to the vehicle height adjustment unit (40) by controlling the hydraulic pressure supply unit (30) depending on whether a predetermined vehicle height adjustment condition is met, wherein the control unit (80) controls the hydraulic pressure supply unit (30) depending on whether an operating state of the vehicle meets a predetermined braking condition.a hydraulic pressure from the brake device (10) supplies to the vehicle height adjustment unit (40), characterized in that, when the braking condition is met, the control unit (80) supplies hydraulic pressure from the brake device (10) to the vehicle height adjustment unit (40) by controlling the hydraulic pressure supply unit (30) depending on a comparison result of comparing a hydraulic pressure supplied to the brake caliper (20) from the brake device (10) with a predetermined hydraulic pressure.

Description

BACKGROUND

[0001] Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a device and a method for adjusting the height of a vehicle and in particular a device and a method for adjusting the height of a vehicle, with which a vehicle height is adjusted by jointly using a hydraulic pressure of a brake of a braking device for braking a vehicle. BACKGROUND DISCUSSION

[0002] A vehicle's suspension absorbs vibrations and / or shocks transmitted from the road while driving, thus improving ride quality and stability. The suspension is connected to an axle and frame by means of a spring, a shock absorber, a stabilizer bar, and a rubber spring.

[0003] An electronic control suspension (ECS) includes a front solenoid valve, a rear solenoid valve, a front strut assembly, front and rear vehicle height sensors, a compressor, an ejection solenoid valve, a reservoir, an air supply valve, a pressure switch, and an ECS mode selector switch.

[0004] The front solenoid valve (for one front wheel) and the rear solenoid valve (for one rear wheel) switch the suspension characteristics between hard and soft by adjusting air pressure and opening / closing solenoid valves while setting the vehicle height. The front strut assembly contains an air spring chamber and a two-stage damping force switching valve and performs the functions of selecting a spring constant and damping force (hard / soft) and setting the vehicle height. The front and rear vehicle height sensors detect the height of the front and rear parts of the vehicle, and the compressor generates compressed air required to raise the vehicle height and switch between hard and soft settings.The discharge solenoid valve opens an air valve to release air pressure when lowering the vehicle's height, the reservoir stores air pressure generated in the compressor, the air supply valve supplies air pressure by opening a valve when raising the vehicle's height, and the pressure switch senses air pressure in the reservoir and thereby controls a compressor relay via an on / off switching function.

[0005] Since the suspension system comprises a large number of the mechanical and electrical components described above, problems can arise, such as an increase in the number of vehicle parts and a rise in mechanical and structural complexity. Therefore, there is a need to address these issues.

[0006] The information disclosed above in this background section is provided only to better understand the background of the invention and may therefore contain information that does not represent the prior art. OVERVIEW

[0007] Exemplary embodiments of the present invention provide a device and a method for adjusting the height of a vehicle by jointly utilizing a hydraulic pressure of a braking device for braking a vehicle.

[0008] Further features of the invention are set out in the following description and some will become obvious from the description or can be experienced during the practical implementation of the invention.

[0009] One embodiment of the present invention provides a device for adjusting the height of a vehicle, comprising: a vehicle height adjustment unit configured to adjust the height of the vehicle; a hydraulic pressure supply unit configured to supply hydraulic pressure supplied to a brake caliper from a braking device for braking the vehicle to a vehicle height adjustment unit; and a control unit configured to control hydraulic pressure supplied to the vehicle height adjustment unit from the braking device by controlling the hydraulic pressure supply unit depending on whether a predetermined vehicle height adjustment condition is met.

[0010] The device can further include a vehicle height detection unit designed to detect a vehicle height, wherein the control unit controls the hydraulic pressure supply unit depending on a comparison result of comparing the vehicle height detected by the vehicle height detection unit with a predetermined target vehicle height.

[0011] The hydraulic pressure supply unit may include a hydraulic pressure supply valve installed in the brake assembly and designed to regulate hydraulic pressure supplied from the brake assembly; and a hydraulic pressure line, one end of which is connected to the hydraulic pressure supply valve and the other end of which is connected to the vehicle height adjustment unit, and designed to supply hydraulic pressure from the hydraulic pressure supply valve to the vehicle height adjustment unit.

[0012] The hydraulic pressure supply unit may include a hydraulic pressure line, one end of which is connected to the brake device and the other end of which is connected to the vehicle height adjustment unit, and which is designed to supply hydraulic pressure from the brake device to the vehicle height adjustment unit; and a hydraulic pressure supply valve, which is installed on the hydraulic pressure line and is designed to regulate hydraulic pressure supplied through the hydraulic pressure line.

[0013] The control unit can supply hydraulic pressure from the brake system to the vehicle height adjustment device by controlling the hydraulic pressure supply unit, depending on whether an operating state of the vehicle meets a predetermined braking condition.

[0014] The control unit can supply hydraulic pressure from the braking device to the vehicle height adjustment unit by controlling the hydraulic pressure supply unit if the braking condition is not met.

[0015] When the braking condition is met, the control unit can supply hydraulic pressure from the braking system to the vehicle height adjustment unit by controlling the hydraulic pressure supply unit, depending on a comparison result of comparing a hydraulic pressure supplied from the braking system to the brake caliper with a predetermined hydraulic pressure.

[0016] If the hydraulic pressure supplied to the brake caliper is equal to or higher than the predetermined hydraulic pressure, the control unit can supply hydraulic pressure from the brake system to both the vehicle height adjustment unit and the brake caliper by controlling the hydraulic pressure supply unit.

[0017] If the hydraulic pressure supplied to the brake caliper is lower than the predetermined hydraulic pressure, the control unit can supply hydraulic pressure from the brake system to the vehicle height adjustment unit by controlling the hydraulic pressure supply unit when the vehicle is stopped.

[0018] The predetermined hydraulic pressure can be a target brake pressure that must be supplied to the brake caliper from the brake system.

[0019] The control unit can determine whether the vehicle height adjustment condition is met, based on: a vehicle height adjustment button input, a vehicle speed, a driving time and / or a vehicle position.

[0020] Another embodiment of the present invention provides a method for adjusting the height of a vehicle, comprising: determining whether a predetermined vehicle height adjustment condition is met by means of a control unit; detecting a vehicle height by means of a vehicle height detection unit when the vehicle height adjustment condition is met; and adjusting the vehicle height by means of the control unit by supplying the hydraulic pressure supplied by a hydraulic pressure supply unit from a braking device for braking the vehicle to a vehicle height adjustment unit as a function of the vehicle height.

[0021] The hydraulic pressure supply unit may include a hydraulic pressure supply valve installed in the brake assembly and designed to regulate hydraulic pressure supplied from the brake assembly; and a hydraulic pressure line, one end of which is connected to the hydraulic pressure supply valve and the other end of which is connected to the vehicle height adjustment unit, and designed to supply hydraulic pressure from the hydraulic pressure supply valve to the vehicle height adjustment unit.

[0022] The hydraulic pressure supply unit may include a hydraulic pressure line, one end of which is connected to the brake device and the other end of which is connected to the vehicle height adjustment unit, and which is designed to supply hydraulic pressure from the brake device to the vehicle height adjustment unit; and a hydraulic pressure supply valve, which is installed on the hydraulic pressure line and is designed to regulate hydraulic pressure supplied through the hydraulic pressure line.

[0023] When adjusting the vehicle height, the control unit can supply hydraulic pressure from the braking system to the vehicle height adjustment unit by controlling the hydraulic pressure supply unit if an operating condition of the vehicle does not meet a predetermined braking condition.

[0024] When adjusting the vehicle height, if an operating condition of the vehicle meets the predetermined braking condition, the control unit can supply hydraulic pressure from the brake system to the vehicle height adjustment unit by controlling the hydraulic pressure supply unit, depending on a comparison result of comparing a hydraulic pressure supplied to the brake caliper from the brake system with a predetermined hydraulic pressure.

[0025] When adjusting the vehicle height, if the hydraulic pressure supplied to the brake caliper is equal to or higher than the predetermined hydraulic pressure, the control unit can supply hydraulic pressure from the brake system to both the vehicle height adjustment unit and the brake caliper by controlling the hydraulic pressure supply unit.

[0026] When adjusting the vehicle height, if the hydraulic pressure supplied to the brake caliper is lower than the predetermined hydraulic pressure, the control unit can supply hydraulic pressure from the brake system to the vehicle height adjustment unit by controlling the hydraulic pressure supply unit while the vehicle is stopped.

[0027] The predetermined hydraulic pressure can be a target brake pressure that must be supplied to the brake caliper from the brake system.

[0028] When determining whether the predetermined vehicle height adjustment condition is met, the control unit can determine whether the vehicle height adjustment condition is met based on: a vehicle height adjustment key input, a vehicle speed, a driving time and / or a vehicle position.

[0029] In the device and method for adjusting the height of a vehicle according to the concepts of the invention by adjusting the vehicle height by jointly utilizing a hydraulic pressure of a braking device for braking a vehicle, wherein different hydraulic pressures in the vehicle are controlled, the number of parts required for vehicle height adjustment can be reduced and various electrical modules in the vehicle can be simplified mechanically and structurally.

[0030] Furthermore, with the device and method for adjusting the height of a vehicle according to the concepts of the invention, since the number of mechanical and structural devices for a vehicle height device can be reduced, the costs and time required for the manufacture of a vehicle can be significantly reduced.

[0031] It is understood that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory and are intended to provide a further explanation of the claimed invention. List of characters

[0032] The accompanying drawings, which are provided to offer a better understanding of the invention and which are incorporated into and form part of this patent specification, represent embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention. Fig. Figure 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a device for adjusting the height of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention. Fig. Figure 2 is a flowchart to illustrate a method for adjusting the height of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6, and Fig. Figure 7 are block diagrams illustrating examples of the configurations of devices for adjusting the height of a vehicle, which are used in a braking device, according to embodiments of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EXECUTION FORMS SHOWN

[0033] The invention is described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which show embodiments of the invention. However, this invention can be implemented in many different forms and should not be interpreted as being limited to the embodiments presented here. Rather, these embodiments are provided in such a way that this disclosure is complete and fully conveys the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art.

[0034] Below, a device and a method for adjusting the height of a vehicle are described with reference to the accompanying drawings and various exemplary embodiments. It should be noted that the drawings are not exactly to scale and may be exaggerated with regard to line thickness or component sizes for the sake of simplicity and clarity. Furthermore, the terms used here are defined taking into account the functions of the invention and may be modified according to the custom or intention of users or operators. Therefore, the definitions of the terms should be made in accordance with the complete disclosures set forth herein.

[0035] As is generally known in the field, some embodiments in the accompanying drawings may be represented as functional blocks, units, and / or modules. Those skilled in the art recognize that such blocks, units, and / or modules are physically implemented by electronic (or optical) circuits, such as logic circuits, discrete components, processors, hard-wired circuits, memory devices, and wiring connections. When the blocks, units, and / or modules are implemented by processors or similar hardware, they can be programmed and controlled using software (e.g., code) to perform various functions discussed in this patent. Furthermore, each of the blocks, units, and / or modules can be implemented by dedicated hardware or as a combination of dedicated hardware for performing certain functions and a processor (e.g., a microcontroller, a computer, or a computer).(one or more programmed processors and associated circuit arrangement) to perform a different function. In some embodiments, each of the blocks, units, and / or modules can be physically separated into two or more interacting and discrete blocks, units, and / or modules without deviating from the scope of disclosure. Furthermore, blocks, units, and / or modules of some embodiments can be physically connected to form more complex blocks, units, and / or modules without deviating from the scope of disclosure.

[0036] Fig. Figure 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a device for adjusting the height of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] According to Fig. 1 The device for adjusting the height of a vehicle includes a hydraulic pressure supply unit 30, a vehicle height adjustment unit 40 , a braking condition determination unit 50 , a vehicle speed sensor 60 , a vehicle height detection unit 70 and a control unit 80 on.

[0038] The hydraulic pressure supply unit 30 uses together one from a braking system 10 A brake caliper is used to brake the vehicle. 20 supplied hydraulic pressure and thereby directs all or part of the hydraulic pressure of the vehicle height adjustment unit 40 to.

[0039] The braking system 10 The vehicle is braked by stopping the rotation of each wheel by supplying hydraulic pressure to the brake caliper. 20 every wheel.

[0040] The braking system 10 can be both a braking device 10 of an internal combustion engine vehicle as well as a braking system 10of an environmentally friendly vehicle. In various embodiments of the present invention discussed here, the braking devices are designated by the same reference numeral.

[0041] Although the braking system 10 of an internal combustion engine vehicle and the braking system 10 Although environmentally friendly vehicles differ from each other in terms of mechanical and electrical structures, they are essentially the same at least in that the hydraulic pressure for braking the vehicle is applied to the brake caliper. 20 is supplied.

[0042] The hydraulic pressure supply unit 30 This creates a hydraulic pressure that is applied to the brake caliper. 20 from any braking system 10 is supplied to the vehicle height adjustment unit 40to, so that the hydraulic pressure for braking the vehicle can not only be used for braking the vehicle, as in the state of the art, but also for adjusting the height of the vehicle.

[0043] In various embodiments of the present invention, a device for adjusting the height of a vehicle is based on the braking system. 10 of an internal combustion engine vehicle with reference to Fig. 1 to Fig. 3 described, and a device for adjusting the height of a vehicle based on the braking system is described. 10 an environmentally friendly vehicle with regard to Fig. 4 to Fig. 7 described.

[0044] In general, the braking system 10A combustion engine vehicle has various mechanical and electrical components, such as a brake pedal, a brake booster, a reservoir, a cylinder (a master cylinder and a backup master cylinder), a pedal, and a valve (an inlet valve and an exhaust valve). For example, when a driver presses the brake pedal, hydraulic pressure is generated by the backup master cylinder.

[0045] A large number of valves (hydraulic pressure adjusting valves) provide a control to the brake caliper. 20 The hydraulic pressure to be supplied is controlled, and the brake fluid supplied to each wheel cylinder is regulated. The outlet valve is installed in a fluid path between each wheel cylinder and the reservoir and regulates the oil discharged from each wheel cylinder.

[0046] Recently, as anti-lock brake system (ABS) or electronic stability control (ESC) functions have become widely used in vehicles, a braking system has 10 an ESC hydraulic unit of an internal combustion engine vehicle 12 on. The ESC hydraulic unit 12 It jointly utilizes some of the respective mechanical and electrical components of an existing hydraulic pressure generation unit. 11 or features new mechanical and electrical components. The ESC hydraulic unit 12 maintains a hydraulic pressure in advance that is supplied to each wheel of the vehicle and directs the hydraulic pressure to at least one of the brake calipers. 20 from the respective wheels when a condition for executing the ABS or ESC function is met, thereby performing the corresponding function. The ESC hydraulic unit 12It calculates a required brake pressure based on a pedal travel sensed by a pedal travel sensor and a pressure sensed by a sub-master cylinder pressure sensor, and generates a brake pressure by driving a motor depending on the calculated required brake pressure.

[0047] Although Fig. Figure 1 shows that the ESC hydraulic unit 12 , which includes a motor, a pump, a valve, an ECU, and so on, separate from the hydraulic pressure generation unit 11 in the braking system 10 Regarding the arrangement of an internal combustion engine vehicle, it should be noted for reference that the ESC hydraulic unit 12 integrated with the hydraulic pressure generation unit 11 It may be installed.

[0048] The technical scope of the inventive concepts covers both cases in which the ESC hydraulic unit 12separate from and integral with the hydraulic pressure generation unit 11 in the braking system 10 of an internal combustion vehicle, and includes all aspects as long as there is hydraulic pressure from the brake system 10 of an internal combustion engine vehicle, the brake caliper 20 is used to brake the vehicle.

[0049] The hydraulic pressure supply unit 30 features a hydraulic pressure supply valve 31 and a hydraulic pressure line 32 on.

[0050] The hydraulic pressure supply valve 31 is in the braking system 10 installed in an internal combustion vehicle and leads from the braking system 10 hydraulic pressure supplied to the vehicle height adjustment unit 40 To. The hydraulic pressure supply valve 31 can be used to supply hydraulic pressure to the brake caliper 20It may be installed as a single unit with or separately from a multitude of valves for braking the vehicle, or it may be installed in a brake pressure line for providing hydraulic brake pressure.

[0051] The hydraulic pressure supply valve 31 is in a normally closed state, so that normally hydraulic pressure for braking the vehicle is immediately released from the braking system. 10 of an internal combustion engine vehicle, the brake caliper 20 can be supplied. However, if a vehicle height adjustment condition (which will be described later) is met, the hydraulic pressure supply valve will be activated. 31 towards the brake caliper 20 closed and in the direction of the vehicle height adjustment unit 40 opened and thereby leads to an outflow from the braking system 10 hydraulic pressure supplied to the vehicle height adjustment unit of an internal combustion engine vehicle 40The vehicle height adjustment condition will be described later.

[0052] In the hydraulic pressure line 32 This marks the end of the hydraulic pressure supply valve. 31 one end is connected and the other end is connected to the vehicle height adjustment unit. 40 connected, and thus it carries hydraulic pressure from the hydraulic pressure valve 31 the vehicle height adjustment unit 40 to.

[0053] Consequently, the vehicle height adjustment unit 40 a height of the vehicle corresponding to the height determined by the hydraulic pressure line 32 from the hydraulic pressure supply valve 31 supplied hydraulic pressure.

[0054] The braking condition determination unit 50 Determines whether a vehicle operating condition fulfills a vehicle braking condition. For example, the braking condition determination unit determines 50based on the actuation state of the brake pedal or a driving assistance system in the vehicle, for example a Smart Cruise Control (SCC) system, whether a braking condition is met.

[0055] Generally, it can be determined whether the brake pedal is in an on or off state, depending on whether a driver presses it. Thus, the brake condition determination unit determines whether the brake pedal is in an on or off state by sensing it. 50 , that the braking condition is met when the brake pedal is in the ON state, and it determines that the braking condition is not met when the brake pedal is in the OFF state.

[0056] Furthermore, the driving assistance system controls the vehicle's braking depending on the distance to a vehicle ahead. In this case, the braking condition determination unit determines the braking force. 50, that the braking condition is met if the distance to the vehicle in front is equal to or less than a predetermined distance, and it determines that the braking condition is not met if the distance to the vehicle in front exceeds the predetermined distance.

[0057] The vehicle height detection unit 70 Detects vehicle height. The vehicle height detection unit 70 It can directly sense the height of the vehicle based on a relative change in the position of the vehicle's body and axle, but it can estimate the height of the vehicle depending on a driving condition of the vehicle, for example, the vehicle's speed, driving environment, and road.

[0058] The vehicle speed sensor 60 It senses the vehicle's speed and sends the sensed speed to the control unit. 80one. The vehicle speed sensor 60 It can sense the speed of the vehicle based on the vehicle's wheel rotation speed or a navigation system, but the inventive concepts are not specifically limited to this.

[0059] The vehicle height adjustment unit 40 sets the vehicle's height using a hydraulic pressure supply unit. 30 supplied hydraulic pressure. The vehicle height adjustment unit 40 It can be provided on a suspension system that adjusts the vehicle's height using hydraulic pressure, and can encompass all aspects as long as the vehicle's height is adjusted using the appropriate hydraulic pressure. The vehicle height adjustment unit 40 It may have an oil chamber (not shown) which expands depending on the pressure supplied by the hydraulic pressure supply unit. 30expands or contracts with the applied hydraulic pressure.

[0060] The control unit 80 determines whether a vehicle height adjustment condition is met when the braking condition determination unit is active. 50 It is determined that an operating state of the vehicle fulfills the braking condition, and, depending on a determination result, the hydraulic pressure supply unit is controlled. 30 the vehicle height adjustment unit 40 a hydraulic pressure of the brake system 10 of an internal combustion engine vehicle.

[0061] This means that when a driver presses the brake pedal or the distance to a vehicle in front is within the predetermined distance, the braking system will activate. 10 of an internal combustion engine vehicle, the brake caliper 20 supplies hydraulic pressure for braking the vehicle.

[0062] If from the braking condition determination unit 50Once it is determined that the braking condition is met, the control unit detects 80 one of the brake calipers 20 from the braking system 10 hydraulic pressure supplied to an internal combustion engine vehicle by an ECU or similar in the braking system 10 of an internal combustion engine vehicle, and it determines whether the detected hydraulic pressure is equal to or greater than a predetermined hydraulic pressure.

[0063] The predetermined hydraulic pressure is a target brake pressure that is applied to the brake caliper. 20 from the braking system 10 The target brake pressure is a minimum hydraulic pressure required to brake the vehicle and can be determined in various ways depending on the position of the brake pedal, the vehicle speed, and the driving environment.

[0064] Generally, the braking system 10A combustion engine vehicle has a safety system that is essential to the vehicle. Therefore, the hydraulic pressure required for braking the vehicle must always be ensured.

[0065] If from the braking condition determination unit 50 The control unit determines that the braking condition is met. 80 , whether the hydraulic pressure of the brake system 10 a combustion engine vehicle is equal to or greater than the target hydraulic pressure required to brake the vehicle. As a result of this determination, if a hydraulic pressure of the braking system is present, then 10 If the braking pressure of an internal combustion engine vehicle is less than the target braking pressure, the control unit 80 adjusting the height of the vehicle after the vehicle has been stopped or the braking system has been deactivated 10 is in a disabled state.

[0066] In other words, the control unit determines 80 that the vehicle is stopped when one of the vehicle speed sensors detects a problem 60 The detected vehicle speed is 0 km / h, and when the braking system 10 If it does not operate to an additional degree, it determines whether the vehicle height adjustment condition is met.

[0067] If there is hydraulic pressure in the brake system 10 The control unit determines whether the braking pressure of an internal combustion engine vehicle is equal to or greater than the target braking pressure. 80 , whether the vehicle height adjustment condition is met.

[0068] If a driver wishes to adjust the vehicle's height, or if a driving condition of the vehicle corresponds to a condition in which the vehicle height adjustment should be performed, it can be determined that a vehicle height adjustment condition is met. The control unit 80performs a vehicle height adjustment depending on whether such a vehicle height adjustment condition is met.

[0069] For example, the control unit determines 80 , whether the vehicle height adjustment condition is met, based on: a vehicle height adjustment button input, a vehicle speed, a driving time and / or a vehicle position.

[0070] In this case, the control unit determines 80 The vehicle height adjustment condition is met if a vehicle height adjustment key input has been made, a vehicle speed is equal to or greater than a predetermined speed, for example 100 km / h, the vehicle travels at a speed above a predetermined speed for at least a predetermined time, or the vehicle is located on a highway.

[0071] When the vehicle height adjustment condition is met, the control unit determines80 , whether one of the vehicle height detection units 70 The detected vehicle height corresponds to a predetermined target vehicle height.

[0072] The target vehicle height can be a vehicle height that is set to the vehicle height adjustment button when a vehicle height adjustment button input is made by the driver, and can be a vehicle height that is set to a corresponding driving condition when the vehicle travels at a speed of 100 km / h or more for at least a predetermined time, or when the vehicle is in a motorway.

[0073] As a result of the determination, if one of the vehicle height detection units is detected... 70 The detected vehicle height differs from the target vehicle height; the control unit 80 by controlling the hydraulic pressure supply valve 31 The vehicle's height can be adjusted by applying hydraulic pressure to the braking system.10 of an internal combustion engine vehicle to a vehicle height adjustment unit 40 and repeats this process until the vehicle height equals the target vehicle height.

[0074] Below is a method for adjusting the height of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention with reference to Fig. 2 described in more detail.

[0075] Fig. Figure 2 is a flowchart to illustrate a method for adjusting the height of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0076] According to Fig. 2 first determines the braking condition determination unit 50 , whether an operating condition of the vehicle meets the braking condition (S10).

[0077] As a result of the determination at step S10 The control unit detects when it is determined that the braking condition is met. 80through an ECU or similar in the braking system 10 of an internal combustion vehicle, one from the braking system 10 of an internal combustion engine vehicle, the brake caliper 10 supplied hydraulic pressure ( S20 ).

[0078] If hydraulic pressure is released from the brake system 10 of an internal combustion engine vehicle, the brake caliper 20 The control unit determines the amount supplied. 80 , whether the hydraulic pressure detected as described above is equal to or higher than the predetermined hydraulic pressure (S30).

[0079] As a result of the determination at step S30 determined when the hydraulic pressure of the brake system 10 of an internal combustion engine vehicle equal to or higher than the predetermined hydraulic pressure, the control unit 80 , whether the vehicle height adjustment condition is met (S50). If the hydraulic pressure of the brake system 10If the hydraulic pressure of an internal combustion vehicle is lower than the predetermined hydraulic pressure, the control unit determines 80 based on a reading from the vehicle speed sensor 60 Sensed vehicle speed, whether the vehicle is in a stopped state (S40).

[0080] As a result of the determination at step S40 The control unit determines when the vehicle is in a stopped state. 80 , whether the vehicle height adjustment condition is met (S50).

[0081] As a result of the determination at step S50 The control unit then detects when the vehicle height adjustment condition is met. 80 a vehicle height through the vehicle height detection unit 70 (S60) and determines whether the detected vehicle height and the target vehicle height are the same (S70).

[0082] As a result of determining at step S70The vehicle adjustment process is complete when the actual vehicle height and the target vehicle height are equal. Conversely, if the actual vehicle height and the target vehicle height are not equal, the control unit... 80 The vehicle's height can be adjusted by applying hydraulic pressure to the braking system. 10 of an internal combustion engine vehicle through the hydraulic pressure supply valve 31 to the vehicle height adjustment unit 40 one (S80).

[0083] In the above embodiment, the hydraulic pressure supply valve 31 in the braking system 10 installed in an internal combustion engine vehicle. The hydraulic pressure supply valve 31 However, it can be separated from the braking system. 10 be installed in a combustion engine vehicle.

[0084] Fig. Figure 3 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a device for adjusting the height of a vehicle, which is used in a braking device, according to a further embodiment of the present invention.

[0085] According to Fig. 3 The device for adjusting the height of a vehicle, which is used in a braking device, according to a further embodiment of the present invention, comprises a hydraulic pressure supply unit 30 , a vehicle height adjustment unit 40 , a braking condition determination unit 50 , a vehicle speed sensor 60 , a vehicle height detection unit 70 and a control unit 80 on.

[0086] In this further embodiment, the same reference numerals are used for the same components as for those in the preceding embodiment described above, and detailed descriptions thereof are omitted. The operation of the device for adjusting the height of a vehicle according to this further embodiment of the present invention is the same as that of the embodiment described above.

[0087] In the device for adjusting the height of a vehicle according to the further embodiment, the hydraulic pressure supply valve 31 separate from the braking system 10 be installed in a combustion engine vehicle.

[0088] Although in one of the embodiments described above the hydraulic pressure supply valve 31 in the braking system 10In the further embodiment, the hydraulic pressure supply valve is installed in a combustion engine vehicle. 31 separate from the braking system 10 installed in an internal combustion engine vehicle and thus carries hydraulic pressure from the brake system 10 of an internal combustion engine vehicle's vehicle height adjustment unit 40 to.

[0089] In one embodiment and the further embodiment of the present invention described above, a device for adjusting the height of a vehicle at the braking system is used. 10 applied to an internal combustion engine vehicle.

[0090] However, a device for adjusting the height of a vehicle can also be used in a braking system. 10 an environmentally friendly vehicle (electric vehicle, hybrid vehicle, hydrogen fuel cell vehicle, etc.). This will be applied below with reference to Fig. 4 to Fig. 7 described.

[0091] According to Fig. Figure 4 comprises a device for adjusting the height of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention, a hydraulic pressure supply unit 30 , a vehicle height adjustment unit 40 , a braking condition determination unit 50 , a vehicle speed sensor 60 , a vehicle height detection unit 70 and a control unit 80 In the present embodiment, detailed descriptions of the same components as in the preceding embodiments are omitted.

[0092] In the present embodiment, the hydraulic pressure supply valve 31 the hydraulic pressure supply unit 30 in the braking system 10 of an environmentally friendly vehicle and can be installed on the hydraulic pressure line 32such a connection between the hydraulic pressure supply valve 31 and the vehicle height adjustment unit 40 This is connected to the fact that a hydraulic pressure of the braking system 10 of an environmentally friendly vehicle through the hydraulic pressure supply valve 31 and the hydraulic pressure line 32 the vehicle height adjustment unit 40 is supplied.

[0093] The operation of the device for adjusting the height of a vehicle according to the present embodiment is the same as that of the preceding embodiments.

[0094] The braking system 10 An environmentally friendly vehicle's brake system consists of a brake pedal, an electric brake booster, a valve, a pressure sensor, and an ECU. Generally, a motor, a pump, a valve, and a pressure sensor are integrated, and hydraulic pressure for braking a vehicle can be generated by the motor and the pump (or a cylinder).

[0095] With such a braking device 10 In an environmentally friendly vehicle, when a driver presses the brake pedal, the motor is driven and, as the cylinder is actuated, hydraulic pressure is applied to the brake caliper to brake the vehicle. 20 supplied through a valve.

[0096] For reference purposes, the present embodiment describes that the brake pedal, the motor, the valve, the pressure sensor and the ECU are located in the brake assembly. 10 of an environmentally friendly vehicle, however, a variety of mechanical and electrical devices can be provided, and the technical scope of the concepts according to the invention can include all types of braking devices. 10 include an environmentally friendly vehicle.

[0097] In the device for adjusting the height of a vehicle according to the present embodiment, it has been described by way of example that the hydraulic pressure supply valve 31 in the braking system 10 is installed in an environmentally friendly vehicle.

[0098] The hydraulic pressure supply valve 31 However, it can also occur outside the braking system 10 be installed in an environmentally friendly vehicle.

[0099] According to Fig. 5 includes a device for adjusting the height of a vehicle in one embodiment of the disclosure, a hydraulic pressure supply unit 30 , a vehicle height adjustment unit 40 , a braking condition determination unit 50 , a vehicle speed sensor 60 , a vehicle height detection unit 70 and a control unit 80In the present embodiment, detailed descriptions of the same components as in the preceding embodiments are omitted.

[0100] The operation of the device for adjusting the height of a vehicle according to the present embodiment is the same as that of the preceding embodiments.

[0101] In the device for adjusting the height of a vehicle according to the present embodiment of the disclosure, the hydraulic pressure supply valve 31 the hydraulic pressure supply unit 30 separate from the braking system 10 be installed in an environmentally friendly vehicle.

[0102] Although in the above with reference to Fig. The hydraulic pressure supply valve described in section 4 of the disclosure 31 in the braking system 10In the present embodiment, the hydraulic pressure supply valve is installed in an environmentally friendly vehicle. 31 separate from the braking system 10 installed in an environmentally friendly vehicle, thus drawing hydraulic pressure from the braking system 10 of an environmentally friendly vehicle's vehicle height adjustment unit 40 to.

[0103] In the case of an environmentally friendly vehicle, the vehicle can also be powered by an engine in addition to its internal combustion engine. Therefore, since the environmentally friendly vehicle should be able to brake even when the internal combustion engine is not running, it must be braked using hydraulic pressure stored in a motor pump and accumulator. Devices for adjusting the vehicle's height, as used in such an environmentally friendly vehicle, are described with reference to… Fig. 6 and Fig. 7 described.

[0104] According to Fig. Figure 6 comprises a device for adjusting the height of a vehicle in an embodiment of the present invention, comprising a hydraulic pressure supply unit. 30 , a vehicle height adjustment unit 40 , a braking condition determination unit50 , a vehicle speed sensor 60 , a vehicle height detection unit 70 and a control unit 80 on.

[0105] In the device for adjusting the height of a vehicle according to the present embodiment of the present invention, the hydraulic pressure supply valve 31 the hydraulic pressure supply unit 30 with a valve block 14 in the braking system 10 be associated with an environmentally friendly vehicle.

[0106] At the in Fig. 6 brake device shown 10 A hydraulic pressure generation unit is a component of an environmentally friendly vehicle. 13 , which has a motor and a pump, separate from the valve block 14 provided for, and if one is in the accumulator of the hydraulic pressure generating unit 13 stored hydraulic pressure to the valve block 14The valve block is transmitted 14 the hydraulic pressure transferred from the accumulator to the brake caliper 20 to.

[0107] As described above, the hydraulic pressure supply valve 31 with the valve block 14 connected; jointly uses one of the valve block 14 and the brake caliper 20 supplied hydraulic pressure; and consequently leads to pressure from the valve block 14 The hydraulic pressure supplied to the vehicle height adjustment unit is selectively applied. 40 to.

[0108] The operating process of the device for adjusting the height of a vehicle according to the present embodiment is the same as in the preceding embodiments.

[0109] In the present embodiment, it is shown by way of example that the hydraulic pressure supply valve 31is connected to a valve block. Without deviating from the technical scope of the concepts according to the invention, the hydraulic pressure supply valve can 31 however, it must be directly connected to the accumulator.

[0110] According to Fig. Figure 7 comprises a device for adjusting the height of a vehicle in an embodiment of the present invention, comprising a hydraulic pressure supply unit. 30 , a vehicle height adjustment unit 40 , a braking condition determination unit 50 , a vehicle speed sensor 60 , a vehicle height detection unit 70 and a control unit 80 on.

[0111] In the device for adjusting the height of a vehicle according to the present embodiment of the present invention, the hydraulic pressure supply valve 31 the hydraulic pressure supply unit 30 with the hydraulic pressure generation unit 13in the braking system 10 be associated with an environmentally friendly vehicle.

[0112] The accumulator of the hydraulic pressure generation unit 13 leads to a valve block 14 a hydraulic pressure, as described above, and since the hydraulic pressure supply valve 31 with the hydraulic pressure generation unit 13 When connected, the hydraulic pressure of the accumulator can be directly applied to the vehicle height adjustment unit. 40 be supplied.

[0113] This means that the hydraulic pressure supply valve 31 with the hydraulic pressure generation unit 13 in the braking system 10 is connected to an environmentally friendly vehicle and has one in the accumulator of the hydraulic pressure generation unit 13 stored hydraulic pressure of the vehicle height adjustment unit 40 feeds in, so that the height of the vehicle can be adjusted by this arrangement.

[0114] As can be seen from the foregoing descriptions, in the device and method for adjusting the height of a vehicle according to the exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the number of parts required for vehicle height adjustment can be reduced and various electrical modules in the vehicle can be simplified mechanically and structurally by adjusting the vehicle height by jointly utilizing a hydraulic pressure of a braking device for braking a vehicle, whereby different hydraulic pressures in the vehicle are controlled.

[0115] In the device and method for adjusting the height of a vehicle according to the embodiments of the present invention, the costs and time required for the manufacture of a vehicle can be significantly reduced, since the number of mechanical and structural devices for a vehicle height device can be reduced.

[0116] Although exemplary embodiments of the disclosure have been disclosed for illustrative purposes, those skilled in the art recognize that various modifications, additions, and substitutions are possible without altering the scope and content of the disclosure as defined in the accompanying claims. Thus, the true technical scope of the disclosure is defined by the subsequent claims.

Claims

[1] Device for adjusting the height of a vehicle, comprising: a vehicle height adjustment unit designed to adjust the height of the vehicle; a hydraulic pressure supply unit designed to supply hydraulic pressure supplied from a braking device to a brake caliper for braking the vehicle to a vehicle height adjustment unit; and a control unit designed to control a hydraulic pressure supplied from the braking device of the vehicle height adjustment unit by controlling the hydraulic pressure supply unit depending on whether a predetermined vehicle height adjustment condition is met. [2] Device according to claim 1, further comprising: a vehicle height detection unit designed to detect a vehicle height, wherein the control unit controls the hydraulic pressure supply unit depending on a comparison result of comparing the vehicle height detected by the vehicle height detection unit with a predetermined target vehicle height. [3] Device according to claim 1, wherein the hydraulic pressure supply unit comprises: a hydraulic pressure supply valve installed in the brake system and designed to regulate hydraulic pressure supplied from the brake system; and a hydraulic pressure line, one end of which is connected to the hydraulic pressure supply valve and the other end of which is connected to the vehicle height adjustment unit, and which is designed to supply hydraulic pressure from the hydraulic pressure supply valve to the vehicle height adjustment unit. [4] Device according to claim 1, wherein the hydraulic pressure supply unit comprises: a hydraulic pressure line, one end of which is connected to the braking device and the other end of which is connected to the vehicle height adjustment unit, and which is designed to supply hydraulic pressure from the braking device to the vehicle height adjustment unit; and A hydraulic pressure supply valve that is installed on the hydraulic pressure line and is designed to regulate hydraulic pressure supplied through the hydraulic pressure line. [5] Device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit supplies hydraulic pressure from the braking device to the vehicle height adjustment device by controlling the hydraulic pressure supply unit depending on whether an operating state of the vehicle meets a predetermined braking condition. [6] Device according to claim 5, wherein the control unit supplies hydraulic pressure from the braking device to the vehicle height adjustment unit by controlling the hydraulic pressure supply unit when the braking condition is not met. [7] Device according to claim 5, wherein, when the braking condition is met, the control unit supplies hydraulic pressure from the brake device to the vehicle height adjustment unit by controlling the hydraulic pressure supply unit depending on a comparison result of comparing a hydraulic pressure supplied to the brake caliper from the brake device with a predetermined hydraulic pressure. [8] Device according to claim 7, wherein, when a hydraulic pressure supplied to the brake caliper is equal to or higher than the predetermined hydraulic pressure, the control unit supplies a hydraulic pressure from the brake device to both the vehicle height adjustment unit and the brake caliper by controlling the hydraulic pressure supply unit. [9] Device according to claim 7, wherein, when a hydraulic pressure supplied to the brake caliper is lower than the predetermined hydraulic pressure, the control unit supplies a hydraulic pressure from the brake device to the vehicle height adjustment unit by controlling the hydraulic pressure supply unit when the vehicle is stopped. [10] Device according to claim 7, wherein the predetermined hydraulic pressure is a target brake pressure that must be supplied to the brake caliper from the brake device. [11] Device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit determines whether the vehicle height adjustment condition is met, on the basis of: a vehicle height adjustment button input, a vehicle speed, a driving time and / or a vehicle position. [12] Method for adjusting the height of a vehicle, comprising: Determine whether a predetermined vehicle height adjustment condition is met, using a control unit; Detecting a vehicle height using a vehicle height detection unit when the vehicle height adjustment condition is met; and The vehicle height is adjusted by the control unit by supplying hydraulic pressure from a braking device to a vehicle height adjustment unit, depending on the vehicle height. [13] Method according to claim 12, wherein the hydraulic pressure supply unit comprises: a hydraulic pressure supply valve installed in the brake system and designed to regulate hydraulic pressure supplied from the brake system; and a hydraulic pressure line, one end of which is connected to the hydraulic pressure supply valve and the other end of which is connected to the vehicle height adjustment unit, and which is designed to supply hydraulic pressure from the hydraulic pressure supply valve to the vehicle height adjustment unit. [14] Method according to claim 12, wherein the hydraulic pressure supply unit comprises: a hydraulic pressure line, one end of which is connected to the braking device and the other end of which is connected to the vehicle height adjustment unit, and which is designed to supply hydraulic pressure from the braking device to the vehicle height adjustment unit; and A hydraulic pressure supply valve that is installed on the hydraulic pressure line and is designed to regulate hydraulic pressure supplied through the hydraulic pressure line. [15] Method according to claim 12, wherein, when adjusting the vehicle height, the control unit supplies hydraulic pressure from the braking device to the vehicle height adjustment unit by controlling the hydraulic pressure supply unit, if an operating condition of the vehicle does not meet a predetermined braking condition. [16] Method according to claim 12, wherein, when adjusting the vehicle height, if an operating condition of the vehicle meets the predetermined braking condition, the control unit supplies hydraulic pressure from the brake device to the vehicle height adjustment unit by controlling the hydraulic pressure supply unit depending on a comparison result of comparing a hydraulic pressure supplied to the brake caliper from the brake device with a predetermined hydraulic pressure. [17] Method according to claim 16, wherein, when adjusting the vehicle height, if a hydraulic pressure supplied to the brake caliper is equal to or higher than the predetermined hydraulic pressure, the control unit supplies a hydraulic pressure from the brake device to both the vehicle height adjustment unit and the brake caliper by controlling the hydraulic pressure supply unit. [18] Method according to claim 16, wherein, when adjusting the vehicle height, if a hydraulic pressure supplied to the brake caliper is lower than the predetermined hydraulic pressure, the control unit supplies a hydraulic pressure from the brake device to the vehicle height adjustment unit by controlling the hydraulic pressure supply unit when the vehicle is stopped. [19] Method according to claim 16, wherein the predetermined hydraulic pressure is a target brake pressure that must be supplied to the brake caliper from the brake device. [20] Method according to claim 12, wherein, when determining whether the predetermined vehicle height adjustment condition is met, the control unit determines whether the vehicle height adjustment condition is met on the basis of: a vehicle height adjustment key input, a vehicle speed, a driving time and / or a vehicle position.

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