Modulator for generating a pressure change, pneumatic vehicle system, commercial vehicle and method for controlling or regulating pneumatic pressure in a pneumatic consumer

Abstract

A modulator (20) for generating a pressure change in response to a control pressure has a first venting path (25) and a second venting path (26) for venting a pneumatic consumer (11). The modulator (20) has a relay valve (30) configured to vent the pneumatic consumer (11) via the first venting path (25). The modulator (20) has a venting valve (40) configured to vent the pneumatic consumer (11) via the second venting path (26).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a modulator for generating a pressure change and a method for controlling or regulating a pneumatic pressure in a pneumatic consumer. The invention particularly relates to such devices and methods with which a pneumatic consumer can be selectively supplied with pressure from a compressed gas source or vented. The invention relates to such modulators and methods that can be used in the automotive sector, as well as to a pneumatic vehicle system and a commercial vehicle having such a modulator.

[0002] Modulators are used to generate pressure changes in a working circuit depending on a pressure change in a control circuit. Examples of applications include motor vehicles, such as braking systems or other pneumatic vehicle systems in commercial vehicles or other motor vehicles. DE 10 2006 041 008 A1 discloses a pneumatic vehicle braking system that includes a modulator.

[0003] Due to regulatory or other safety-related requirements, it may be necessary for a reduction in control pressure to result in a timely change in pressure in the working circuit (e.g., realized within a specified time). An example of this is the reduction in brake pressure applied to a cylinder in response to a reduction in control pressure. Due to the design geometries and space requirements of modulators, this is sometimes difficult to achieve.

[0004] The object of the invention is to provide an improved modulator and an improved method designed such that a reduction in a control pressure causes a rapid change in the pressure in the working circuit. In particular, the object of the invention is to provide such a modulator and such a method in which a venting rate of a consumer can be increased if an output pressure at a compressed gas outlet decreases too slowly compared to a control pressure.

[0005] According to the invention, this object is achieved by a modulator for generating a pressure change, a pneumatic vehicle system, a commercial vehicle, and a method for controlling or regulating a pneumatic pressure in a pneumatic consumer, as defined in the independent claims. The dependent claims define advantageous or preferred embodiments.

[0006] A modulator according to the invention for generating a pressure change has a control pressure inlet for receiving a control pressure, a compressed gas inlet, and at least one compressed gas outlet. The modulator has a first venting path and a second venting path for venting a pneumatic consumer. At least a portion of the first venting path is different from at least a portion of the second venting path.The modulator has a relay valve that is pneumatically controllable by the control pressure and that has at least a first valve position and a second valve position, wherein the relay valve is configured to provide a fluid connection between the compressed gas inlet and the at least one compressed gas outlet in the first valve position and to provide a fluid connection between the at least one compressed gas outlet and the first vent path for venting the pneumatic consumer in the second valve position. The modulator has a vent valve that is pneumatically controllable by the control pressure and that is configured to selectively provide a fluid connection between the at least one compressed gas outlet and the second vent path for venting the pneumatic consumer depending on the control pressure.

[0007] The modulator provides various technical effects and advantages. The second venting path and the venting valve provided in addition to the relay valve allow the pneumatic actuator to be vented in parallel via the first venting path and the second venting path. The second venting path can be selectively used for venting if, if the pneumatic actuator were vented only via the first venting path, the pressure at the compressed gas outlet would drop too slowly compared to the control pressure. Venting can thus occur more quickly, with the venting valve and the second venting path selectively contributing to the venting, for example, in certain operating configurations.

[0008] According to a further aspect of the invention, a method for controlling or regulating a pneumatic pressure in a pneumatic consumer using a modulator is provided. The modulator has a first vent path and a second vent path. At least a portion of the first vent path is different from at least a portion of the second vent path. The method comprises: supplying compressed gas from a compressed gas source to the pneumatic consumer via the modulator, and venting the pneumatic consumer via the modulator.Venting the pneumatic consumer comprises: pneumatically actuating a relay valve of the modulator by a control pressure received from the modulator to vent the pneumatic consumer via the first vent path, and pneumatically actuating a vent valve by the control pressure to additionally vent the pneumatic consumer via the second vent path.

[0009] The method provides various technical effects and advantages. The second venting path and the venting valve provided in addition to the relay valve enable the pneumatic consumer to be vented in parallel via the first venting path and the second venting path. The second venting path can be selectively used for venting if, if the pneumatic consumer were vented only via the first venting path, the pressure at the compressed gas outlet would drop too slowly compared to the control pressure. Venting can thus occur more quickly, with the venting valve and the second venting path selectively contributing to the venting, for example, in certain operating configurations.

[0010] The modulator and the method according to the exemplary embodiments can be used in pneumatic vehicle systems of motor vehicles, particularly commercial vehicles. Pneumatic braking systems of commercial vehicles are one application area in which the modulator and the method can be used particularly advantageously.

[0011] Further advantages, features, and details of the invention will become apparent from the following description of preferred embodiments. Embodiments of the invention are described below, particularly with reference to the figures. These do not necessarily represent the embodiments to scale. Rather, the figures are presented in a schematic and / or slightly distorted form where appropriate for explanation. Fig. 1 shows a pneumatic vehicle system with a modulator in an operating state in which a pneumatic consumer is vented. Fig. 2 shows the pneumatic vehicle system of Fig. 1, if the pneumatic consumer is supplied with compressed gas. Fig. 3 shows a specific design of the pneumatic vehicle system of Fig. 1 in an operating state in which a pneumatic consumer is vented. Fig. 4 shows a further embodiment of a pneumatic vehicle system with a modulator in an operating state in which a pneumatic consumer is vented. Fig. 5 shows yet another embodiment of a pneumatic vehicle system with a modulator. Fig. 6 shows a perspective view of a modulator usable in the pneumatic vehicle system. Fig. Figure 7 shows a sectional view of the modulator of Fig. 6. Fig. Figure 8 shows a detailed view of the sectional view of the modulator of Fig. 6. Fig. 9 shows a configuration of a vent valve that can be used in the modulator according to one embodiment. Fig. Figure 10 shows a detailed view of features of the vent valve of Fig. 9. Fig. 11 shows a further embodiment of a vent valve that can be used in a modulator according to one embodiment. Fig. 12 shows another perspective view of the modulator usable in the pneumatic vehicle system. Fig. 13 shows a pneumatic vehicle system. Fig. 14 shows a commercial vehicle. Fig. 15 shows a flowchart of a method. Fig. Figure 16 shows time-dependent pressure curves to explain the mode of operation of the modulator.

[0012] The modulator, the pneumatic vehicle system and the method according to embodiments of the invention are preferably used in a commercial vehicle, without being limited thereto.

[0013] In particular, embodiments of a modulator for generating a pressure change are described in detail below. The modulator has a control pressure inlet for receiving a control pressure, a compressed gas inlet, and at least one compressed gas outlet. The modulator has a first venting path and a second venting path for venting a pneumatic consumer. At least a portion of the first venting path is different from at least a portion of the second venting path.The modulator has a relay valve that is pneumatically controllable by the control pressure and that has at least a first valve position and a second valve position, wherein the relay valve is configured to provide a fluid connection between the compressed gas inlet and the at least one compressed gas outlet in the first valve position and to provide a fluid connection between the at least one compressed gas outlet and the first vent path for venting the pneumatic consumer in the second valve position. The modulator has a vent valve that is pneumatically controllable by the control pressure and that is configured to selectively provide a fluid connection between the at least one compressed gas outlet and the second vent path for venting the pneumatic consumer depending on the control pressure.

[0014] As already explained above, the modulator achieves various technical effects and advantages.

[0015] The relay valve and the vent valve can be configured to vent the pneumatic consumer in parallel via the first vent path and the second vent path.

[0016] Parallel venting prevents the pressure at the compressed gas outlet from following a drop in the control pressure with an unacceptable delay. The second vent path can be selectively activated when this makes sense based on the time profile of the control pressure and the pressure at the compressed gas outlet.

[0017] The vent valve may be configured to provide the fluid connection between the at least one compressed gas outlet and the second vent path upon a decrease in the control pressure.

[0018] This allows for faster venting.

[0019] The vent valve may be configured to provide the fluid connection between the at least one compressed gas outlet and the second vent path depending on a rate at which the control pressure decreases.

[0020] This allows parallel venting to be provided selectively via both the first vent path and the second vent path when a sharp decrease rate of the control pressure makes this necessary.

[0021] The vent valve can be configured to provide the fluid connection between the at least one compressed gas outlet and the second vent path depending on a ratio between the control pressure and a pressure at the at least one compressed gas outlet.

[0022] This means that venting can also be carried out selectively via the second venting path if a decrease in the control pressure precedes a decrease in the pressure at the compressed gas outlet too much in time.

[0023] The vent valve may be configured to provide venting via the second venting path depending on a difference between the pressure at the compressed gas outlet and the control pressure.

[0024] This means that venting can also take place selectively via the second venting path when a difference between the pressure at the compressed gas outlet and the control pressure reaches or exceeds a threshold value.

[0025] The vent valve may be configured to selectively provide the fluid connection between the at least one compressed gas outlet and the second vent path when a difference between the pressure at the compressed gas outlet and the control pressure meets a threshold criterion, for example, is equal to or greater than a threshold value.

[0026] This means that venting can also take place selectively via the second venting path if the difference between the pressure at the compressed gas outlet and the control pressure meets the threshold criterion.

[0027] The vent valve may have a diaphragm.

[0028] This allows the vent valve to be implemented in a technically simple, robust and easily configurable manner.

[0029] At least one region of the membrane may be arranged between a first fluid space and a second fluid space.

[0030] This allows the vent valve to be actuated by a pressure difference between the first fluid chamber and the second fluid chamber.

[0031] The modulator may have a control pressure chamber fluidically connected to the control pressure inlet. The first fluid chamber may be fluidly connected to the control pressure chamber. The second fluid chamber may be fluidly connected to the at least one compressed gas outlet.

[0032] This allows the vent valve to be actuated depending on a pressure difference or a quotient between the at least one compressed gas outlet and the control pressure.

[0033] The vent valve may further comprise a reversibly deformable energy storage element.

[0034] This allows the diaphragm to be pressed into a desired resting position. The energy storage element allows the vent valve to be configured to open at a specific differential pressure between the pressure at the at least one compressed gas outlet and the control pressure, with the differential pressure depending on the energy storage element and the geometry of the diaphragm.

[0035] The membrane may have a side on which both the reversibly deformable energy storage element and the first fluid space are arranged.

[0036] This makes it possible to ensure that venting via the second venting path only occurs when the pressure at the at least one compressed gas outlet lags behind the control pressure so much when the control pressure decreases that the pressure in the second fluid space moves the membrane against the forces exerted by the pressure in the first fluid space and the energy storage element from a rest position in which the venting valve fluidically separates the second venting path from the at least one compressed gas outlet.

[0037] The vent valve can be designed for a sealing engagement of the diaphragm against a valve seat under the action of the control pressure on the diaphragm.

[0038] This ensures that the vent valve can only establish the fluid connection between the at least one compressed gas outlet and the second vent path when the control pressure drops.

[0039] The vent valve may further include a support member extending along a portion of the membrane.

[0040] This allows the vent valve to be provided in a simple, compact and robust manner.

[0041] The membrane may have a peripheral edge and a sealing surface spaced from the peripheral edge, wherein the sealing surface is configured for sealing engagement with a valve seat.

[0042] This allows the vent valve to be provided in a simple, compact and robust manner.

[0043] The vent valve may be configured to provide the fluid connection between the at least one compressed gas outlet and the second vent path when the ratio reaches a threshold value that depends on a geometric configuration of the membrane.

[0044] This makes it possible to ensure that venting via the second venting path only occurs when the pressure at the at least one compressed gas outlet lags behind the control pressure when the control pressure drops so much that the pressure in the second fluid space moves the diaphragm from its rest position against the force exerted by the pressure in the first fluid space.

[0045] The vent valve and the relay valve can be configured such that when the control pressure drops, the vent valve provides the fluid connection between the compressed gas outlet and the second vent path after the relay valve provides the fluid connection between the compressed gas outlet and the first vent path.

[0046] As a result, parallel venting through both the first and the second venting path can be provided selectively when necessary to minimize the time lag between a decreasing edge of the control pressure and the corresponding decreasing edge of the pressure at the compressed gas outlet.

[0047] The vent valve can be or comprise a 2 / 2-way valve, a 3 / 2-way valve, or a 4 / 2-way valve. The vent valve can comprise a first vent valve port that is or can be fluidically connected to the at least one compressed gas outlet. The vent valve can comprise a second vent valve port that is fluidically connected to the second vent path.

[0048] As a result, the function of selectively providing an additional venting path for the at least one consumer through the modulator can be realized in a simple and reliable manner.

[0049] The vent valve may have a vent valve control port that is fluidly connected or connectable to the control pressure input.

[0050] This allows a pneumatic control of the vent valve to be realized in a simple and reliable manner depending on a differential pressure between the at least one compressed gas outlet and the control pressure.

[0051] The vent valve may have a further vent valve control connection which is fluidically connected or connectable to the compressed gas outlet.

[0052] This allows a pneumatic control of the vent valve to be realized in a simple and reliable manner depending on a differential pressure between the at least one compressed gas outlet and the control pressure.

[0053] The relay valve can be or comprise a 3 / 2-way valve or a 4 / 2-way valve. The relay valve can comprise a first relay valve port that is fluidically connected or connectable to the at least one compressed gas inlet. The relay valve can comprise a second relay valve port that is fluidically connected or connectable to the at least one compressed gas outlet. The relay valve can comprise a third relay valve port that is fluidically connected to the second vent path.

[0054] This makes it possible to implement the function of supplying compressed gas to the pneumatic consumer or of venting the pneumatic consumer.

[0055] The relay valve may have a relay valve control port that is fluidly connected or connectable to the control pressure input.

[0056] This allows pneumatic control of the relay valve depending on the control pressure.

[0057] The control pressure can be a control pressure generated by a brake value sensor or can depend on a control pressure generated by a brake value sensor.

[0058] This allows the modulator to be used advantageously in a pneumatic braking system.

[0059] The modulator can have a first modulator unit which has the relay valve and the vent valve and which is assigned to one or more first consumers. The modulator can further have a second modulator unit which has a further relay valve and a further vent valve. The further relay valve can be configured to supply one or more second consumers with compressed gas depending on the control pressure. The further relay valve can be configured to vent the one or more second consumers via a further first vent path of the modulator depending on the control pressure. The further vent valve can be configured to vent the one or more second consumers via a further second vent path of the modulator.

[0060] This allows the modulator to be used in combination with multiple pneumatic consumers, which are supplied with and exhausted from compressed gas via at least two different modulator units. This can be desirable, for example, for axle modulators.

[0061] The modulator can have at least one additional compressed gas outlet that is fluidically connected to the additional vent valve and the additional relay valve. The additional vent valve can be fluidically connected to the compressed gas inlet. The additional vent valve and the additional relay valve can be fluidically connected to the vent opening or to a different additional vent opening.

[0062] As a result, the one or more second consumers can be supplied with compressed gas and vented via the at least one further compressed gas outlet.

[0063] The additional vent valve can be configured to be actuated depending on a pressure difference between a pressure at the at least one additional compressed gas outlet and the control pressure. For this purpose, the additional vent valve can be designed as a pneumatically actuated valve.

[0064] As a result, the one or more second consumers can then also be selectively vented via the further second venting path if a pressure at the at least one further compressed gas outlet would lag too far behind the control pressure in terms of time if the control pressure were to drop.

[0065] Optional additional features of the additional vent valve and the additional relay valve correspond to the features and their effects explained with reference to the vent valve and the relay valve.

[0066] The second modulator unit can be designed essentially identically to the first modulator unit and can be arranged with it in a common housing.

[0067] This allows the use of identical components for the first and second modulator units. Maintenance and inventory costs can be reduced.

[0068] The second modulator unit may have a spatial configuration and arrangement of valves that is a mirror image of that of the first modulator unit.

[0069] This allows all compressed gas outlets to be located on the same side of the modulator housing.

[0070] The modulator can be designed such that each compressed gas outlet of the modulator is fluidically connected to only one relay valve of the modulator and to only one vent valve of the modulator.

[0071] This allows for easy assignment of consumers to valves of the modulator.

[0072] The modulator may further include a housing. The modulator may further include a vent opening in the housing.

[0073] This facilitates the venting of the at least one pneumatic consumer and, if present, the at least one second pneumatic consumer into the environment via the modulator.

[0074] Both the first vent path and the second vent path can lead into the vent opening.

[0075] This results in a particularly simple construction.

[0076] The relay valve, the vent valve and, if present, the second relay valve and the second vent valve may be arranged in the housing.

[0077] This makes it easier to assemble the modulator as a structural unit.

[0078] The vent valve can be arranged in the housing in an area in an environment of the at least one compressed gas outlet.

[0079] This ensures that the pressure acting on a diaphragm of the vent valve essentially corresponds to the pressure at at least one compressed gas outlet.

[0080] A pneumatic vehicle system according to a further aspect of the invention comprises: at least one pneumatic consumer, the modulator according to one embodiment and at least one connection that fluidically connects the at least one pneumatic consumer to the modulator.

[0081] This enables the technical effects explained with reference to the modulator to be realized in the pneumatic vehicle system. In such a system, it may be particularly important for safety or other regulatory reasons that a drop in control pressure leads to a drop in pressure in the working circuit, i.e., at the pneumatic actuator, with a short time delay.

[0082] The at least one pneumatic consumer can have one or more brake cylinders.

[0083] This allows the technical effects explained with reference to the modulator to be realized in a pneumatic braking system. In such a system, it may be particularly important for safety or other regulatory reasons that a drop in the control pressure leads to a drop in the pressure in the working circuit, i.e., the brake pressure, with a short time delay.

[0084] The pneumatic vehicle system may include an electronic braking system (EBS).

[0085] As a result, the technical effects explained with reference to the modulator are realized in a braking system that has an EBS.

[0086] A commercial vehicle according to a further aspect of the invention comprises the modulator according to an embodiment of the invention or the pneumatic vehicle system according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0087] This allows the technical effects explained with reference to the modulator to be realized in a commercial vehicle. In such a system, it may be particularly important, for safety or other regulatory reasons, to minimize the time delay between a drop in pressure in a working circuit and a drop in pressure in the control circuit.

[0088] According to further embodiments, a method is provided that has already been explained. Optional method features and the effects achieved thereby correspond to the features and effects explained with reference to the modulator, the pneumatic vehicle system, and the commercial vehicle. The method can be carried out using a modulator, a pneumatic vehicle system, or a commercial vehicle according to any of the disclosed embodiments.

[0089] Features and effects are further explained below with reference to the figures.

[0090] Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 are schematic representations of a pneumatic vehicle system 10. The pneumatic vehicle system 10 can be configured as a pneumatic braking system. The pneumatic vehicle system 10 can have an electronic braking system (EBS). Fig. 1 shows a state in which a modulator 20 is in a first operating state in which a pneumatic consumer 11 is vented via the modulator 20. Fig. 2 shows another state in which the modulator 20 is in a second operating state in which a pneumatic consumer 11 is supplied with compressed air.

[0091] The pneumatic system 10 comprises the pneumatic consumer 11, a compressed gas source 13, and the modulator 20. The compressed gas source 13 is fluidly connected to the modulator 20 via a compressed gas source connection 14. The pneumatic consumer 11 is fluidly connected to the modulator 20 via a consumer connection 12. The consumer connection 12 and / or the compressed gas source connection 14 can each be configured as connecting lines or connecting channels.

[0092] The modulator 20 is designed to supply the pneumatic consumer 11 with compressed gas (as in Fig. 2) and vented via the modulator 20 (as shown in Fig. 1). The modulator 20 is configured to vent the pneumatic consumer 11 such that the pneumatic consumer 11 can be vented in parallel both via a first vent path 25 via a relay valve 30 and via a second vent path 26 via a vent valve 40 different from the relay valve 30.

[0093] The modulator 20 has a compressed gas inlet 21 for receiving compressed gas or a pneumatic pressure from the compressed gas source 13. A (in Fig. A compressed gas reservoir (not shown in FIG. 1) can be arranged between the compressed gas source 13 and the compressed gas inlet 21. The modulator 20 has a compressed gas outlet 22 which is designed to be fluidically connected to the pneumatic consumer 11. Compressed gas is supplied from the modulator 20 to the pneumatic consumer 11 via the compressed gas outlet 22. At the compressed gas outlet 22, the modulator 20 receives compressed gas from the pneumatic consumer 11 when it is vented. The modulator 20 has a vent opening 23. Gas or the pneumatic pressure which the modulator 20 receives at the compressed gas outlet 22 from the pneumatic consumer 11 is released into an environment of the modulator 20 via the vent opening 23. The modulator 20 has a control pressure inlet 24 for receiving a control pressure. The control pressure can be a control pressure generated by a brake value sensor.The control pressure determines whether the modulator 20 supplies the pneumatic consumer 11 with compressed gas or vents it.

[0094] The modulator 20 comprises the relay valve 30 and the vent valve 40. The relay valve 30 is designed as a pneumatically controllable valve. The relay valve 30 is configured to selectively provide a fluid connection between the compressed gas inlet 21 and the compressed gas outlet 22 via the relay valve 30, depending on the control pressure at the control pressure inlet 24 (operating state of Fig. 2) or to provide a fluid connection between the compressed gas outlet 22 and the vent opening 23 (operating state of Fig. 1).

[0095] The relay valve has a relay valve control port 34, which is fluidically connected to the control pressure inlet 24 of the modulator 20. The relay valve 30 has a first relay valve port 31, which is fluidically connected to the compressed gas inlet 21. The relay valve 30 has a second relay valve port 32, which is fluidically connected to the compressed gas outlet 22. The relay valve 30 has a third relay valve port 33, which is fluidically connected to the vent opening 23 via a first vent path 25.

[0096] The vent valve 40 is configured to fluidically connect the compressed gas outlet 22 to the vent opening 23 depending on a pressure at the compressed gas outlet 22 and the control pressure at the control pressure inlet 24, optionally depending on a differential pressure or quotient between the pressure at the compressed gas outlet and the control pressure. Fig. 1, venting occurs via both the first venting path 25 and the second venting path 26. Such parallel venting via both the first venting path 25 and the second venting path 26 can only occur selectively if a drop in pressure at the compressed gas outlet follows a drop in control pressure in such a way that venting also occurs via the second venting path 26.

[0097] The vent valve 40 has a first vent valve port 42, which is fluidically connected to the compressed gas outlet 22. The vent valve 40 has a second vent valve port 43, which is fluidically connected to the vent opening 23 via the second vent path 26.

[0098] The vent valve 40 may be pneumatically controllable and may have at least one vent valve control port 44.

[0099] In the Fig. In the operating state shown in Figure 2, in which the control pressure activates the relay valve 30 so that compressed air is supplied to the pneumatic consumer 11, the vent valve 40 is closed.

[0100] Due to the selectivity of the venting via the second venting path 26 in addition to the venting via the first venting path 25, the modulator 20 can thus have a further operating state in which the venting occurs only via the first venting path 25, but no gas flow occurs between the second venting valve connection 43 and the venting opening 23 (i.e. the second venting path 26 is not activated).

[0101] Fig. 3 shows a specific embodiment of the modulator 20, wherein the vent valve 40 is configured as a pneumatically controllable valve. The vent valve 40 can, in particular, be configured as a diaphragm valve. The vent valve 40 can be controlled based on the control pressure and a pressure at the compressed gas outlet 22. For this purpose, the vent valve 40 can have a diaphragm, on whose opposite main surfaces the control pressure and the pressure at the compressed gas outlet 22 are present. Other embodiments are possible, wherein the vent valve 40 advantageously operates depending on a differential pressure between the pressure at the compressed gas outlet 22 and the control pressure, wherein the control pressure can be received at a vent valve control port 44. The vent valve control port 44 is fluidically connected to the control pressure inlet 24.

[0102] At the Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 3, venting via the second venting path 26, parallel to venting via the first venting path 25, occurs selectively only when the differential pressure between the pressure at the compressed gas outlet 22 and the control pressure from the control pressure inlet 24 reaches or exceeds a threshold value. The threshold value can be configured by the valve geometry, in particular by the geometry of a diaphragm of the venting valve, and / or other valve components (such as an energy storage element and a support element, which will be described later) and adapted to the respective application of the modulator 20. For example, the venting valve 40 can be designed as a diaphragm valve or check valve with two control pressure inlets 44, 44.1, a venting inlet or the first venting valve valve connection 42, and a venting outlet or the second venting valve valve connection 43.

[0103] Fig. 4 shows a further specific embodiment of the modulator 20, in which the modulator 20 has, in addition to the compressed gas outlet 22, a second compressed gas outlet 22'. The modulator 20 of Fig. 4 is arranged in such a way that both the pneumatic consumer 11 and a second pneumatic consumer 11' can be supplied with the pneumatic pressure or compressed gas and vented via the modulator 20.

[0104] The Modulator 20 from Fig. 4 is arranged such that both the compressed gas outlet 22 and the second compressed gas outlet 22' are fluidically connected to the second relay valve port 32. The modulator 20 of Fig. 4 is configured such that both the compressed gas outlet 22 and the second compressed gas outlet 22' are fluidically connected to the first vent valve valve connection 42. This enables both the pneumatic consumer 11 and the second pneumatic consumer 11' to be vented via both the first vent path 25 and the second vent path 26 when a differential pressure between the pressure at the compressed gas outlets 22, 22' and the control pressure requires this and / or when an influencing variable of the pneumatic control pressure at the control pressure inlet 44 of the vent valve 40 is greater than an influencing variable of the pneumatic control pressure at the control pressure inlet 44.1 and / or when a difference or a quotient of these pressures meets a threshold criterion.

[0105] Fig. 5 shows a pneumatic system 10 with a further specific embodiment of the modulator 20. The modulator 20 has a first modulator unit 27, which has a vent valve 40 and a relay valve 30. The first modulator unit 27 is configured to supply the pneumatic consumer 11 with compressed air from a compressed air inlet 21 and to vent it via a vent opening 23. The operation and design of the relay valve 30 and the vent valve 40 can be described as described with reference to Fig. 1 to Fig. 4 described in detail.

[0106] The Modulator 20 from Fig. 5 further comprises a second modulator unit 57. The second modulator unit 57 is configured to supply and vent the pneumatic consumer 11 with compressed air. The second modulator unit 57 comprises a further relay valve 30' and a further vent valve 40'. The further relay valve 30' and the further vent valve 40' can be configured identically to the relay valve 30 and vent valve 40 described above in terms of their construction and function. The second modulator unit 57 is configured to supply and vent the further pneumatic consumer 50, which is connected to a further compressed gas outlet 52 of the modulator 20 via a consumer connection 54, with compressed gas. The modulator 20 can accordingly comprise a further compressed gas inlet 51 for receiving compressed gas from a compressed gas source.The modulator 20 can optionally have a further vent opening 53, which is fluidically connected to both the further relay valve 30' and the further vent valve 40'. In this case, the further relay valve 30'—analogous to the configuration described above—can be connected to the further vent opening 53 via a further first vent path, and the further vent valve 40' can be connected to the further vent opening 53 via a further second vent path.

[0107] The modulator 20 has a housing 28. Both the first modulator unit 27 and the second modulator unit 57 are arranged in the housing 28. The compressed gas outlet 22, the further compressed gas outlet 52, the compressed gas inlet 21, the further compressed gas inlet 51, the vent opening 23, the further vent opening 53, and the control pressure inlet 24 are formed on the housing 28. The relay valve 30, the vent valve 40, the further relay valve 30', and the further relay valve 40' are each actuated depending on the control pressure 24. Optionally, the vent valve 40 is actuated depending on a differential pressure or quotient between the pressure at the compressed gas outlet 22 and the control pressure P cc , and actuation of the vent valve 40' depending on a differential pressure or quotient between the pressure at the further compressed gas outlet 52 and the control pressure P cc .

[0108] The modulator 20 can be configured such that the first modulator unit 27 and the second modulator unit 57 are identical in design and / or mirror-image to each other. This allows the use of identical components for both modulator units.

[0109] While in Fig. 5 illustrates an embodiment in which only a single pneumatic consumer 11 is fluidically connected to the first modulator unit 27 and in which only a single pneumatic consumer 50 is fluidically connected to the second modulator unit 57, multiple pneumatic consumers can also be fluidically connected to one or both of the modulator units 27, 57. The pneumatic vehicle system 10 is advantageously configured such that each pneumatic consumer coupled to the modulator 20 is fluidically connected to exactly one relay valve and exactly one vent valve.

[0110] Fig. 6 shows a perspective view of a modulator 20 having a first modulator unit 27 and a second modulator unit 57. The modulator 20 is configured such that a plurality of compressed gas outlets 22, 22' or 52, 52' are connected to each of the modulator units 27, 57. The modulator 20 is configured to supply two pneumatic consumers connected to the compressed gas outlets 22, 22' with compressed gas via the relay valve 30 of the first modulator unit 27 and to vent them via the relay valve 30 of the first modulator unit 27 and the vent valve 40 of the first modulator unit 27.

[0111] The modulator 20 is configured to supply two additional pneumatic consumers, which are connected to the compressed gas outlets 52, 52', with compressed gas via the further relay valve 30' of the second modulator unit 57 and to vent them via the further relay valve 30' of the second modulator unit 57 and the further vent valve 40' of the second modulator unit 57.

[0112] The modulator units 27, 57, vent valves 40, 40' and relay valves 30, 30' can be connected to the modulator 20 by Fig. 6 as referred to in Fig. 1 to Fig. 5 explained and be functionally equipped. As explained with reference to Fig. As explained in Figure 5, the housing 28 of the modulator 20 has several vent openings 23, 53 and a control pressure inlet 24. Furthermore, the housing 28 has at least one compressed gas inlet.

[0113] Fig. 7 shows a sectional view of the modulator 20 of Fig. 6. Fig. Figure 8 shows a detail of the sectional view. Further design features that can be used to implement the relay valve 30 are described with reference to Fig. 7 and Fig. 8 described below.

[0114] The modulator 20 has a Fig. 7. A cover 72 may be provided on the electronic control unit 71.

[0115] The first modulator unit 27 with the relay valve 30 is arranged in the housing 28 of the modulator 20. The vent valve 40 of the first modulator unit 27 is offset from the cutting plane of Fig. 7 and Fig. 8. Features of the vent valve 40 are therefore described below with reference to Fig. 9, Fig. 10 and Fig. 11 in more detail. The relay valve 30 has a piston 74. The piston 74 is moved axially (ie in Fig. 7 in a direction parallel to a center plane 73 of the modulator 20). The piston 74 is thereby movable relative to a first static relay valve component 81 and a second static relay valve component 82 in the housing 28. The modulator has a control pressure chamber 75 which is fluidically connected to the control pressure inlet 24. The piston 74 is moved depending on the control pressure at the control pressure inlet 24. In this way, depending on the magnitude of the control pressure, a fluid connection is provided between a pressure output chamber 77, which is fluidically connected to the compressed gas outlet 22, and either the compressed gas inlet 21 or the vent opening. In a first axial position of the piston 74, the pressure output chamber 77 is fluidically connected to the vent opening via the first vent path.In a second axial position of the piston 74, the pressure output chamber 77 is fluidly connected to the compressed gas output 22 via the relay valve 30. As best seen in the enlarged detail view of . Fig. 8, the pressure output chamber 77 can extend annularly around a static relay valve component 81.

[0116] The additional relay valve 30' of the second modulator unit 57 has an identical design to the relay valve 30, with the components arranged in a mirror image relative to the center plane 73. A separate description of the components of the additional relay valve 30' is therefore omitted to avoid repetition. The design features explained above can also be implemented correspondingly in the additional relay valve 30'.

[0117] Each of the modulator units 27, 57 has a vent valve 40, 40'. The vent valve 40, 40' is designed such that it provides venting of a pneumatic consumer via a second vent path different from the first vent path whenever a pressure difference or a quotient between the compressed gas outlet to which the pneumatic consumer is connected and the control pressure reaches or exceeds a threshold value. Thus, the vent valve 40, 40' is designed such that it selectively provides venting via the second vent path whenever, upon a drop in the control pressure, the pressure in the working circuit (i.e., the pressure present at the compressed gas outlet) decreases too slowly in time compared to the control pressure, so that the pressure difference between the pressure at the compressed gas outlet and the control pressure reaches or exceeds the pressure threshold value.

[0118] Fig. 9 is a sectional view of a design variant of the vent valve 40. If present, the further vent valve 40' can be designed in an identical manner.

[0119] The vent valve 40 can have connecting channels and / or fluid spaces formed in at least one static modulator component 90, 91. In the illustrated embodiment, the modulator 20 has at least two static modulator components 90, 91, one of which rests flat against the other. Other embodiments are possible for forming the connecting channels and / or fluid spaces.

[0120] The vent valve 40 is designed as a diaphragm valve and has a diaphragm 100. The control pressure (in a first fluid chamber 93) and a working pressure (in a second fluid chamber 95), i.e., a pressure in the working circuit, are present at opposite main surfaces of the diaphragm 100. The diaphragm 100 can be attached, in particular clamped, between the static modulator components 90, 91.

[0121] The vent valve 40 has a connecting channel 94 that fluidically connects the first fluid chamber 93 such that the first fluid chamber 93 fluidically communicates with the control pressure inlet 24. The vent valve 40 has a further connecting channel 97 that fluidically connects the second fluid chamber 95 such that the second fluid chamber 95 fluidically communicates with the compressed gas outlet 22. A wall region 96 of at least one of the static modulator components 90, 91 is arranged between the second fluid chamber 95 and the second vent path 26. The wall region 96 can have a cylindrical section that defines an outer wall of at least a portion of the second vent path 26 and an inner wall of at least a portion of the second fluid chamber 95.

[0122] The threshold value of the pressure difference or pressure quotient at which the vent valve 40 opens can be determined by the geometry of the membrane 100 (and in particular by an area ratio of the free surfaces at the first fluid chamber 93, on which the control pressure acts, and at the second fluid chamber 95, on which the pressure at the compressed gas outlet acts) and the energy storage element 109. In one embodiment, the area ratio can be selected, for example, such that the control pressure acts on the membrane 100 via a first membrane area that is at least 1.1 times, at least 1.2 times, at least 1.3 times, or at least 1.4 times the size of a second membrane area, via which the working pressure (i.e., the pressure in the second fluid chamber 95) can act on the membrane 100. The free surfaces can be defined, in particular, using the support element 105.

[0123] Fig. Figure 10 shows an enlarged detailed view of the membrane 100 and the support element 105. The support element 105 is optional and can also be omitted. The membrane 100 has a peripheral edge 102. The peripheral edge 102 can have a thickened portion. The thickened portion can have several sealing features, for example, several sealing beads that surround the membrane at the peripheral edge 102.

[0124] The support element 105, if present, can have a fixed support element end 107 that lies flat between a membrane surface 103 and one of the modulator components 91, 92. The fixed support element end 107 can also have a thickened portion and can be held in place by clamping. A support element surface 108 can lie flat against one of the modulator components 91, 92.

[0125] Fig. 11 shows a modification of the vent valve 40, wherein the vent valve 40 is a spring-free diaphragm valve. In comparison to the embodiment described with reference to Fig. 9 and Fig. 10, the energy storage element 109 is not present. The other design features correspond to those described with reference to Fig. 9 and Fig. 10. A sealing engagement of the sealing surface 101 with the valve seat 99 can be ensured by the elastic return properties of the diaphragm 100 itself and / or the control pressure acting on the diaphragm 100 as long as the vent valve 40 is in the closed position.

[0126] In the modulators according to each of the embodiments disclosed herein, it may be advantageous to arrange the vent valve(s) near the compressed gas outlet(s) to which the vent valve(s) are fluidically connected. This is preferred for the modulator of Fig. 6, Fig. 7 and Fig. 8 based on Fig. 12 is explained in more detail.

[0127] Fig. 12 shows another perspective view of the modulator 20 of Fig. 6. The modulator 20 has a wall region 88 of the housing between the compressed gas outlets 22, 22', which are fluidically connected to the vent valve 40 of the first modulator unit 27. It is advantageous to arrange the vent valve of the first modulator unit 27 in the housing 28 such that it is positioned near the compressed gas outlets 22, 22'. It may be particularly advantageous to arrange the vent valve of the first modulator unit 27 in the housing 28 such that it is located behind the wall region 88, which is arranged between the compressed gas outlets 22, 22' or otherwise adjacent to the compressed gas outlets 22, 22'. The modulator 20 has a further wall region 89 of the housing between the compressed gas outlets 52, 52', which are fluidically connected to the further vent valve of the second modulator unit 57.It is advantageous to arrange the further vent valve of the second modulator unit 57 in the housing 28 such that it is positioned near the compressed gas outlets 52, 52'. It may be particularly advantageous to arrange the further vent valve of the second modulator unit 57 in the housing 28 such that it is located behind the further wall region 89, which is arranged between the compressed gas outlets 52, 52' or otherwise adjacent to the compressed gas outlets 52, 52'.

[0128] Modulators according to embodiments can be used in various ways, in particular in various pneumatic vehicle systems and / or as various components of pneumatic vehicle systems. The modulator according to one embodiment can be designed as a modulator for supplying brake cylinders of a front axle or as a rear axle modulator. Modulators according to embodiments can be used in particular in pneumatic braking systems of commercial vehicles, advantageously also in pneumatic braking systems that have an EBS.

[0129] Fig. Figure 13 shows a pneumatic vehicle system 120 configured as a braking system. The braking system includes a brake signal transmitter 121. An actuating element 122, for example, a pedal, can be arranged on or coupled to the brake signal transmitter 121. An EBS 123 can be coupled to the brake signal transmitter 121 to generate commands for the brake signal transmitter 121 and / or the modulators 124, 127, 129, for example, depending on sensor signals or sensor data detected by sensors 131.

[0130] The braking system has a plurality of modulators 124, 127, 129, each configured to convert a control pressure into a pressure in a working circuit. One, several, or all of these modulators can be configured according to an embodiment. The modulator 124 can be configured and connected to increase a pressure in brake cylinders 125 of a front axle by connecting to a compressed gas source or to decrease it by venting. The modulator 124 can be configured as a modulator according to an embodiment. Alternatively or additionally, a modulator 127 can be provided, which is configured as a rear-axle modulator and is configured and connected to separately influence a pressure in brake cylinders 128 of a rear axle.Alternatively or additionally, a modulator 129 may be provided, which is configured as an additional rear axle modulator and is configured and connected to separately influence a pressure in additional brake cylinders 130 of an additional rear axle. One, several, or all of the modulators 124, 127, 129 may be configured as modulators according to embodiments.

[0131] The braking system may include further components known per se. A compressed gas supply 132 may be arranged and connected to supply compressed gas or the pneumatic pressure to the compressed gas inputs of the modulators 124, 127, 129. Various pneumatic components such as control valves 133, 135 or one or more check valves 134 may be arranged in the braking system.

[0132] Fig. 14 shows a schematic representation of a commercial vehicle 140. The commercial vehicle 140 has one or more modulators, at least one of which is configured as a modulator according to one embodiment. For example, the commercial vehicle 140 can have one or more axle modulators 127, 129 configured as a modulator according to one embodiment. The commercial vehicle 140 can control the braking system of Fig. 13.

[0133] Fig. 15 is a flowchart of a method 150 according to one embodiment. The method 150 may be performed by or with the modulator according to one embodiment, the pneumatic vehicle system according to one embodiment, or the commercial vehicle according to one embodiment.

[0134] In step 151, compressed gas is supplied to a pneumatic consumer via the modulator. For this purpose, a compressed gas outlet, which is fluidly connected to the pneumatic consumer, is connected to a compressed gas inlet of the modulator via a relay valve. The compressed gas inlet of the modulator is fluidly connected to a compressed gas source, which can also be configured as a compressed gas reservoir.

[0135] In step 152, the pneumatic consumer is vented via the modulator. For this purpose, a fluidic connection is established between the compressed gas outlet and a first vent path of the modulator via the relay valve.

[0136] In step 153, the pneumatic consumer is vented via a second vent path of the modulator in parallel with the venting via the first vent path. For this purpose, a fluidic connection is established between the compressed gas outlet and the second vent path of the modulator via a vent valve different from the relay valve. The connection to the second vent path can be established selectively depending on how much the pressure lags behind the control pressure when a control pressure received by the modulator drops.

[0137] Further optional features of the method and the effects achieved thereby correspond to the features and effects explained with reference to the modulator, the pneumatic vehicle system and the commercial vehicle.

[0138] Fig. Figure 16 shows pressure curves to further explain the functioning of the modulator, the pneumatic vehicle system, the commercial vehicle, and the method according to embodiments. The pressure curves are shown as a function of time. Shown is a brake pressure 160 that decreases starting at a starting time 164. Fig. 16 shows a pressure curve 161 representing a drop in pressure at the compressed gas outlet in a modulator according to one embodiment. For comparison, a pressure curve 162 is also shown, representing a drop in pressure at the compressed gas outlet in a conventional modulator that has neither the vent valve nor the second vent path. The pressure curve 161 reaches a target value 163 within a pressure drop time 165, calculated from the starting time 164. In comparison, the pressure drop time in which the target value 163 is reached is longer in the conventional pressure curve 162.

[0139] The modulator, the pneumatic vehicle system, the commercial vehicle and the method according to embodiments thus make it possible to reduce the time in which a pressure in the working circuit drops in response to a drop in a pressure in the control circuit.

[0140] Accordingly, according to further embodiments of the invention, the use of the modulator, the pneumatic vehicle system, the commercial vehicle and the method according to one embodiment for reducing the pressure decay time in which a pressure in the working circuit reaches a target value is also provided.

[0141] Modulators, pneumatic vehicle systems, commercial vehicles, and methods according to exemplary embodiments have been described with reference to the figures. Variations and modifications can be implemented in further embodiments.

[0142] Exemplary further modifications of the detailed embodiments disclosed include, for example, the following modifications, but are not limited thereto: While the vent valve 40 can be configured as a diaphragm valve, other implementations of the vent valve 40 can be used. The vent valve 40 does not necessarily have to have an energy storage element 109 and / or a support element 105. The relay valve 30 can be implemented in any conventional manner. While the first vent path 25 and the second vent path 26 can open into a same vent opening 23, in other embodiments the first vent path 25 and the second vent path 26 can open into separate vent openings. The features of the disclosed embodiments can be combined with one another, unless this is expressly excluded.

[0143] The modulators, pneumatic vehicle systems, commercial vehicles, and methods according to embodiments can be used in particular in commercial vehicles with longer wheelbases, without being limited thereto. The modulators, pneumatic vehicle systems, commercial vehicles, and methods according to embodiments can be used particularly advantageously to reduce a time delay in the drop in brake pressure at the brake cylinder(s) in response to a reduction in the control pressure, without being limited to this application. List of reference symbols (part of the description) 10 pneumatic vehicle system 11, 11' pneumatic consumer 12 connecting line 13 Compressed gas source 14 additional connecting lines 20 Modulator 21 Compressed gas inlet 22 Compressed gas outlet 22' second compressed gas outlet 23 Ventilation opening 24 Control pressure input 25 first vent path 26 second vent path 27 first modulator unit 28 housings 30 Relay valve 30' additional relay valve 31 first relay valve valve connection 32 second relay valve valve connection 33 third relay valve valve connection 34 Relay valve control connection 40 vent valve 40' additional vent valve 42 first vent valve valve connection 43 second vent valve connection 44 Vent valve control connection 44.1 additional vent valve control connection 50 additional pneumatic consumers 51 additional compressed gas inlet 52 additional compressed gas outlet 52' additional second compressed gas outlet 53 additional vent opening 54 connecting line 57 second modulator unit 71 electronic control unit 72 protective cover 73 Middle Level 74 pistons 74' additional piston 75 Control pressure chamber 75' additional control pressure chamber 76 coil spring 76' additional coil spring 77 Pressure outlet chamber 77' additional pressure outlet chamber 81 first static relay valve component 82 second static relay valve component 88 Modulator wall area 89 additional modulator wall area 90 static modulator component 91 additional static modulator components 93 first fluid chamber 94 connecting channel 95 second fluid chamber 96 wall area 97 additional connecting channel 98 Axis 99 Valve seat 100 membrane 101 Sealing surface 102 peripheral edge 103 membrane area 105 Support element 106 free support element end 107 fixed support element end 108 support element area 109 Energy storage element 120 pneumatic vehicle system 121 brake signal sensor 122 Actuating element 123 Electronic braking system 124 Modulator 125 front axle brake cylinder 126 Redundancy valve 127 Axis modulator 128 brake cylinders 129 additional axis modulator 130 brake cylinders 131 sensors 132 compressed gas supply 133 Control valve 134 Check valve 135 additional control valve 140 commercial vehicles 150 procedures 151 process step 152 Process step 153 Process step 160 control pressure 161 Output pressure curve 162 Comparison output pressure curve 163 Pressure threshold 164 Start time 165 Pressure drop time P cc Control pressure QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] DE 10 2006 041 008 A1

[0002]

Claims

[1] Modulator (20; 124, 127, 129) for generating a pressure change, comprising: a control pressure input (24) for receiving a control pressure (P cc ), a compressed gas inlet (21; 51), at least one compressed gas outlet (22; 22, 22'; 22, 52; 22, 22', 52, 52'), a first venting path (25) and a second venting path (26) for venting a pneumatic consumer (11; 11, 11'; 11, 50; 125, 128, 130), wherein at least a part of the first venting path (25) is different from at least a part of the second venting path (26), a relay valve (30; 30') which is controlled by the control pressure (P cc) is pneumatically controllable and has at least a first valve position and a second valve position, wherein the relay valve (30; 30') is configured to provide a fluid connection between the compressed gas inlet (21; 51) and the at least one compressed gas outlet (22; 22, 22'; 22, 52; 22, 22', 52, 52') in the first valve position and to provide a fluid connection between the at least one compressed gas outlet (22; 22, 22'; 22, 52; 22, 22', 52, 52') and the first venting path (25) for venting the pneumatic consumer (11; 11, 11'; 11, 50; 125, 128, 130) in the second valve position, and a vent valve (40; 40') which is actuated by the control pressure (P cc ) is pneumatically controllable and is designed to actuate the control pressure (P cc) to selectively provide a fluid connection between the at least one compressed gas outlet (22; 22, 22'; 22, 52; 22, 22', 52, 52') and the second venting path (26) for venting the pneumatic consumer (11; 11, 11'; 11, 50; 125, 128, 130). [2] Modulator (20; 124, 127, 129) according to claim 1, wherein the relay valve (30; 30') and the vent valve (40; 40') are arranged to vent the pneumatic consumer (11; 11, 11'; 11, 50; 125, 128, 130) in parallel via the first vent path (25) and the second vent path (26). [3] Modulator (20; 124, 127, 129) according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the vent valve (40; 40') is arranged to close the fluid connection between the at least one compressed gas outlet (22; 22, 22'; 22, 52; 22, 22', 52, 52') and the second vent path (26) upon a decrease in the control pressure (P cc ). [4] Modulator (20; 124, 127, 129) according to claim 3, wherein the vent valve (40; 40') is arranged to provide the fluid connection between the at least one compressed gas outlet (22; 22, 22'; 22, 52; 22, 22', 52, 52') and the second vent path (26) depending on a rate at which the control pressure (P cc ) decreases. [5] Modulator (20; 124, 127, 129) according to claim 3 or claim 4, wherein the vent valve (40; 40') is arranged to control the fluid connection between the at least one compressed gas outlet (22; 22, 22'; 22, 52; 22, 22', 52, 52') and the second vent path (26) depending on a relationship between the control pressure (P cc ) and a pressure at at least one compressed gas outlet (22; 22, 22'; 22, 52; 22, 22', 52, 52'). [6] Modulator (20; 124, 127, 129) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the vent valve comprises a membrane (100). [7] Modulator (20; 124, 127, 129) according to claim 6, wherein the modulator (20; 124, 127, 129) has a control pressure chamber (82) which is fluidically connected to the control pressure input (21; 51), wherein at least one region of the membrane (100) is arranged between a first fluid space (93) and a second fluid space (95), wherein the first fluid chamber (93) is in fluid communication with the control pressure chamber (82), and / or wherein the second fluid chamber (95) is in fluid communication with the at least one compressed gas outlet (22; 22, 22'; 22, 52; 22, 22', 52, 52'). [8] Modulator (20; 124, 127, 129) according to claim 7, wherein the vent valve (40; 40') further comprises a reversibly deformable energy storage element (109), wherein the membrane (100) has a side on which both the reversibly deformable energy storage element (109) and the first fluid space (93) are arranged. [9] Modulator (20; 124, 127, 129) according to one of claims 6 to 8, wherein the vent valve (40) is designed for a sealing engagement of the membrane (100) against a valve seat (99) under the action of the control pressure (P cc ) is arranged on the membrane (100). [10] Modulator (20; 124, 127, 129) according to one of claims 6 to 9, wherein the vent valve (40; 40') further comprises a support element (105) extending along a part of the membrane (100). [11] Modulator (20; 124, 127, 129) according to one of claims 6 to 10, wherein the membrane (100) has a peripheral edge (102) and a sealing surface (101) spaced from the peripheral edge (102), the sealing surface (101) being adapted for sealing engagement with a valve seat (99). [12] Modulator (20; 124, 127, 129) according to one of claims 6 to 11 as dependent on claim 5, wherein the vent valve (40; 40') is arranged to provide the fluid connection between the at least one compressed gas outlet (22; 22, 22'; 22, 52; 22, 22', 52, 52') and the second vent path (26) when the ratio reaches a threshold value which depends on a geometric configuration of the membrane (100). [13] Modulator (20; 124, 127, 129) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the vent valve (40; 40') and the relay valve (30; 30') are arranged such that when the control pressure (P cc) the vent valve (30; 30') provides the fluid connection between the compressed gas outlet (22; 22, 22'; 22, 52; 22, 22', 52, 52') and the second vent path (26) after the relay valve (30; 30') provides the fluid connection between the compressed gas outlet (22; 22, 22'; 22, 52; 22, 22', 52, 52') and the first vent path (25). [14] Modulator (20; 124, 127, 129) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the modulator (20; 124, 127, 129) further comprises a housing (28), wherein the modulator (20; 124, 127, 129) further comprises a vent opening (23) in the housing (28), wherein both the first vent path (25) and the second vent path (26) open into the vent opening (23). [15] Pneumatic vehicle system (120), comprising at least one pneumatic consumer (11; 11, 11'; 11, 50; 125, 128, 130), the modulator (20; 124, 127, 129) according to one of the preceding claims, and at least one connection (12; 54) which fluidically connects the at least one pneumatic consumer (11; 11, 11'; 11, 50; 125, 128, 130) to the modulator (20; 124, 127, 129). [16] Pneumatic vehicle system (120) according to claim 15, wherein the at least one pneumatic consumer (11; 11, 11'; 11, 50; 125, 128, 130) comprises one or more brake cylinders (125, 128, 130). [17] Commercial vehicle (140) comprising the modulator (20; 124, 127, 129) according to one of claims 1 to 14 or the pneumatic vehicle system (120) according to claim 15 or claim 16. [18] Method for controlling or regulating a pneumatic pressure in a pneumatic consumer (11; 11, 11'; 11, 50; 125, 128, 130) using a modulator (20; 124, 127, 129), wherein the modulator (20; 124, 127, 129) has a first vent path (25) and a second vent path (26), wherein at least a part of the first vent path (25) is different from at least a part of the second vent path (26), the method comprising: Supplying compressed gas from a compressed gas source (13) to the pneumatic consumer (11; 11, 11'; 11, 50; 125, 128, 130) via the modulator (20; 124, 127, 129), and Venting the pneumatic consumer (11; 11, 11'; 11, 50; 125, 128, 130) via the modulator (20; 124, 127, 129), comprising: pneumatic actuation of a relay valve (30; 30') of the modulator (20; 124, 127, 129) by a control pressure (P cc) to vent the pneumatic consumer (11; 11, 11'; 11, 50; 125, 128, 130) via the first venting path (25), and pneumatic actuation of a vent valve (40; 40') by the control pressure (P cc ) in order to additionally vent the pneumatic consumer (11; 11, 11'; 11, 50; 125, 128, 130) via the second venting path (26).

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