Compressed air supply unit, compressed air supply system, vehicle, and operating method

Abstract

The invention relates to a compressed air supply unit (100) for a sensor cleaning device (301), comprising a compressed air connection (1), a compressed air supply connection (2), a main pneumatic line (12) from the compressed air connection (1) to the compressed air supply connection (2), and an air dryer (5, 5.1) arranged in the main pneumatic line (12) for drying the compressed air (120). The invention proposes a water separator (6), which is arranged in the main line (12) between the compressed air connection (1) and the air dryer (5, 5.1), and a branching line (14, 14.1, 14.2), which branches off from the main pneumatic line (12) between the water separator (6) and the air dryer (5, 5.1) and which reconnects to the main pneumatic line between the air dryer (5, 5.1, 5.2) and the compressed air supply connection (2), said branching line having a pneumatic branching line switch valve (24, 24.1, 24.2) which opens the branching line (14, 14.1, 14.2) so as to allow a pneumatic flow in the direction of the compressed air supply connection (2) in a first operating mode (B1). In the first operating mode (B1), the compressed air supply unit (100) is designed to allow a recirculation of compressed air (141) out of the branching line (14, 14.1, 14.2). The invention additionally relates to a compressed air supply system (1200), to a vehicle (1000), and to a method (2000) for operating a compressed air supply system (1200).

Description

[0001] Compressed air supply system, compressed air supply system, vehicle and operating procedures

[0002] The present invention relates to a compressed air supply system for a sensor cleaning device of a vehicle, in particular a passenger car, with a compressed air connection for connection to a compressed air transmitter, a compressed air supply connection for connection to a compressed air consumer, in particular a sensor cleaning device, a pneumatic main line for guiding compressed air from the compressed air connection to the compressed air supply connection in a filling direction, an air dryer arranged in the pneumatic main line for drying the compressed air guided in the filling direction in the pneumatic main line, and a throttle assigned to the air dryer.

[0003] In vehicles, compressed air supply systems are used to supply compressed air consumers with compressed air. For this purpose, compressed air is provided to the compressed air supply system via the compressed air connection from a compressed air source such as a compressor. Compressor or compressor are used synonymously in this description and refer to units that compress air. Such a compressor, together with the compressed air supply system, forms a compressed air supply system. Such a compressed air supply system is preferably controlled via an electronic control unit (ECU). Such compressed air supply systems are also used, in particular, to supply compressed air to sensor cleaning devices as compressed air consumers. Such compressed air supply systems are preferably designed to provide compressed air with a supply pressure of 5 bar and a volume flow of preferably 30-100 l / min.

[0004] Sensor cleaning systems for vehicles are also known. By means of a sensor cleaning system, surfaces on a vehicle, in particular sensor surfaces of sensors, can be cleaned using at least one cleaning fluid, for example compressed air. By cleaning sensor surfaces on the vehicle, especially regularly, it can be achieved that sensors are less contaminated and therefore function more reliably. A clean sensor surface thus advantageously increases the reliability of driver assistance functions and / or semi-autonomous and / or autonomous driving functions of a vehicle. The safety of the vehicle, its occupants, and other road users is thus advantageously increased by a sensor cleaning system.

[0005] Sensor cleaning systems that use compressed air as a cleaning fluid are connected to a compressed air supply system as compressed air consumers. Drying of the compressed air supplied to the sensor cleaning system by the compressed air supply system is necessary to prevent corrosion and frost-related damage and functional impairment to lines, the compressed air supply system, and the sensor cleaning system at temperatures below freezing. The substrate in the air dryer is designed to adsorb moisture from the compressed air flowing through the air dryer, although the substrate can only adsorb moisture up to a maximum saturation point. To maintain the operation of the air dryer, the air dryer is usually regenerated – either regularly or at the latest when the saturation limit is reached.Regeneration, in this context, refers to the dehumidification of the substrate used for drying in the air dryer. To dehumidify the substrate, drier air than the substrate must be passed through the air dryer. This drier air binds some of the adsorbed moisture and thus reduces the substrate's saturation level. The operating time of the air dryer is limited by the saturation of the substrate in the air dryer. If the air dryer is not regenerated, reaching maximum substrate saturation requires the air dryer or the substrate in the air dryer to be replaced.

[0006] Compressed air supply systems for sensor cleaning systems face the challenge that the compressed air supplied at the compressed air supply connection cannot be returned to the compressed air supply system, but is instead expelled for cleaning the sensors. Thus, unlike in known compressed air supply systems, such as those shown in DE102017010772 A1, no compressed air already dried by the air dryer, which could be used to regenerate the air dryer, remains in the compressed air supply system or the compressed air receiver.

[0007] The operating time of the compressed air supply system for sensor cleaning devices therefore depends largely on the possible operating time of the air dryer and its saturation level. The operating time of such a compressed air supply system can therefore currently only be achieved by increasing the substrate quantity – i.e., a larger air dryer. However, due to space limitations, such a solution is considered disadvantageous.

[0008] This is where the invention comes in, the object of which is to provide a compressed air supply system, a compressed air supply system, a vehicle, and an operating method that can overcome at least one of the disadvantages known from the prior art. In particular, the object of the present invention is to enable regeneration of the air dryer in a compressed air supply system of the type mentioned above, in particular compressed air supply systems for sensor cleaning devices, without recirculating the compressed air provided at the compressed air supply connection, while simultaneously implementing a compact design for the compressed air supply system.

[0009] According to the first aspect of the invention, the invention proposes a compressed air supply system, particularly for open pneumatic systems, comprising a water separator arranged in the pneumatic main line between the compressed air connection and the air dryer, and a branch line branching off from the pneumatic main line between the water separator and the air dryer and connecting again between the air dryer and the compressed air supply connection. The branch line has a pneumatic branch line switching valve configured to open the branch line in a first operating mode so that air can flow through it in the direction of the compressed air supply connection. In the first operating mode, the compressed air supply system is configured to allow compressed air to be returned from the branch line through the throttle, counter to the filling direction.It should be understood that, in the first operating mode, the pneumatic branch line switching valve opens the branch line, allowing pneumatic flow only in the direction of the compressed air supply connection, and, in particular, closes it in the opposite direction. A compressed air supply system comprising such a compressed air supply system and a pneumatic system, in particular a sensor cleaning device, constitute a pneumatic system.

[0010] The filling direction within the meaning of the invention refers to the direction of the compressed air conveyed through a line from the compressed air connection to the compressed air supply connection. The pressurized line can be the pneumatic main line or a branch line designed to convey compressed air to the compressed air supply connection. In embodiments in which the branch line, in addition to returning compressed air to the pneumatic main line, is also designed to provide compressed air to the compressed air supply connection, the filling direction simultaneously describes the direction in which flow can occur through the branch line in the first operating mode; in this case, the filling direction corresponds to the direction of the compressed air supply connection.

[0011] The invention takes advantage of the discovery that the water separator, which separates a portion of the moisture from the compressed air supplied at the compressed air connection, slows the saturation of the substrate in the air dryer. By opening the pneumatic branch line switching valve as needed in the first operating mode, allowing pneumatic flow through the branch line toward the compressed air supply connection, the compressed air from the branch line is guided through the air dryer in the pneumatic main line, counter to the filling direction, i.e., in a return direction. This flow counter to the filling direction allows the compressed air partially dehumidified by the water separator to be used to regenerate the air dryer in the return direction.

[0012] The return direction in the sense of the invention refers to the direction of the compressed air guided through a line from the compressed air supply connection opposite to the filling direction.

[0013] The compressed air supply system preferably further comprises a vent port for venting the compressed air supply system and a vent line leading from the pneumatic main line for conducting compressed air to the vent port. Pressure can thus be released from the compressed air supply system. According to this embodiment, the return direction describes, in particular, the direction of the compressed air guided through a line from the compressed air supply port to the vent port. The pressure-carrying line can be the pneumatic main line or a branch line from which a vent line leads to the vent port.

[0014] The compressed air exiting the air dryer in the opposite direction to the filling direction is preferably discharged from the compressed air supply system via the vent line and the vent outlet. For this purpose, the vent line preferably has a pneumatic vent valve configured to cooperate with the pneumatic branch line switching valve in the branch line such that the vent valve switches to an open position when the pneumatic branch line switching valve in the branch line is in the first operating mode.

[0015] Further developments of the invention are specified in the dependent claims, which further develop the concept of the invention with regard to advantageous features within the scope of the task and with regard to further advantages.

[0016] Preferably, the pneumatic branch line switching valve is further configured to block the branch line in a basic operating mode. This prevents incompletely dried compressed air from being supplied via the branch line to the compressed air supply connection and fed to the sensor cleaning device in the basic operating mode. Frost-related malfunctions in the lines and malfunctions of the sensor cleaning device due to freezing residual moisture in the supplied compressed air are thus reliably avoided.

[0017] It is further preferred that the water separator comprises a condensation dryer for condensing moist compressed air and a drain device, in particular a drain valve for draining condensate. The compressed air provided by the compressed air source, such as in particular a compressor, generally has high temperatures due to compression. A condensation dryer can expediently separate portions of the water from the hot compressed air by cooling the moist compressed air and ultimately drain it through a drain device. The drain valve is preferably an automatic drain valve. Such a condensation dryer preferably comprises liquid cooling, in particular water cooling.

[0018] The branch line switching valve is preferably a magnetic branch line switching valve, which is designed to be connected to an electronic control device in a signal-conducting manner. The magnetic branch line switching valve is preferably designed as a 2 / 2-way valve. The magnetic branch line switching valve is particularly preferably designed as a normally closed valve.

[0019] Such a control device preferably comprises one or more communicating control units. For example, a first control unit can be configured to control the compressed air consumer, a second control unit can be configured to control the compressed air supply system, and a third control unit can be configured to control the compressed air generator. Communication between such control units enables reliable data exchange and joint control of the compressed air supply system, as well as the compressed air consumer and the compressed air generator.

[0020] Further preferably, the compressed air supply system has an external ventilation unit associated with the water separator. Particularly preferably, the external ventilation unit comprises a fan. Thus, the water separator is assisted by the ventilation unit in cooling the hot compressed air provided at the compressed air connection. This results in a greater cooling of the hot compressed air and thus a greater degree of dehumidification.

[0021] According to a preferred embodiment, the air dryer is a first air dryer, and the compressed air supply system further comprises a second air dryer arranged in the branch line. The air passed through the first air dryer in the opposite direction to the filling direction is thus additionally dried by the second air dryer in addition to being dehumidified by the water separator. A second air dryer thus significantly increases the regeneration effect by opening the branch line in the first operating mode, allowing pneumatic flow. According to an alternative preferred embodiment, the branch line is a first branch line, and the air dryer is a first air dryer.The compressed air supply system further comprises a second branch line branching off between the water separator and the first air dryer and connecting again between the air dryer and the compressed air supply connection, and a second air dryer arranged in the second branch line. The second branch line is designed to conduct compressed air from the compressed air connection to the compressed air supply connection in the filling direction. Thus, in parallel with the above-described regeneration of the first air dryer via the first branch line, the compressed air supply system can also continue to provide dry compressed air via the second branch line with the second air dryer at the compressed air supply connection. The operational readiness of the compressed air supply system is thus increased. A constant supply of dry compressed air to the compressed air supply connection is thus enabled.Furthermore, if required, the dried compressed air from the second branch line can also be used to regenerate the first air dryer by returning the compressed air through the pneumatic main line in the opposite direction to the filling direction.

[0022] Further preferably, the vent line is a first vent line, and the compressed air supply system further comprises a second vent line branching off from the second branch line for conducting compressed air to the vent connection. Such a second vent line also allows the second air dryer to be used by recirculating the compressed air provided by the first branch line and / or the main pneumatic line through the second branch line, counter to the filling direction. The compressed air exiting the second air dryer counter to the filling direction can be discharged through the second vent line assigned to the second air dryer, in accordance with the regeneration of the first air dryer.

[0023] In embodiments in which the branch line is a first branch line and a branch line switching valve is also arranged in a possibly present second branch line, the corresponding branch line switching valve in the first branch line is a first branch line switching valve, and the branch line switching valve in the second branch line is a second branch line switching valve. Preferably, the second pneumatic branch line switching valve is designed to open the branch line in the first operating mode, allowing pneumatic flow through the compressed air supply connection.

[0024] Thus, in the first operating mode, the regeneration of the first air dryer can be provided by compressed air from the first branch line and additionally compressed air from the second branch line, both of which are pneumatically opened toward the compressed air supply connection by the corresponding pneumatic branch line switching valves. The degree of regeneration and, in particular, the speed of regeneration of the air dryer is thus significantly increased.

[0025] Further preferably, the pneumatic main line has a pneumatic main line switching valve arranged upstream of the air dryer in the filling direction, which is designed to block the pneumatic main line in the filling direction in the first operating mode. Thus, the return of the compressed air in the main line is simplified in the first operating mode and does not have to be carried out against the pressure present in the pneumatic main line. The main line switching valve can preferably also be a controllable throttle designed to control the flow cross-section of the pneumatic main line.

[0026] The compressed air supply system preferably further comprises a main line throttle arranged in the pneumatic main line, which is configured to interact with the main line throttle to adjust a volume flow ratio between the branch line and the pneumatic main line in the first operating mode. The main line throttle is preferably a controllable throttle or a controllable throttle valve. Thus, the volume flow ratio between the compressed air guided through the pneumatic main line and the branch line in the first operating mode can be controlled. Preferably, the main line throttle is further associated with a throttle check valve, which is arranged upstream of the main line throttle in the filling direction.The throttle check valve is preferably configured to open at an opening pressure in the filling direction upstream of the main line throttle that is higher than a pressure difference upstream and downstream of the main line throttle. Further preferably, the branch line switching valve is arranged at a branch point where the branch line branches off from the pneumatic main line and is designed as a 3 / 2-way valve. Thus, the distribution of the compressed air partially dehumidified by the water separator can be controlled with just one switching valve. This compressed air is suitable for regenerating the air dryer and can be fed into the branch line via the 3 / 2-way valve and returned through the pneumatic main line against the filling direction.On the other hand, this compressed air is also suitable for further drying by the air dryer arranged in the pneumatic main line and can be fed into the pneumatic main line for this purpose through the 3 / 2-way valve in basic operating mode.

[0027] The invention is advantageously further developed by a pneumatic arrangement assigned to the compressed air supply connection, which is designed to allow compressed air to be returned from the branch line, in particular the first branch line and / or the second branch line, into the main pneumatic line counter to the filling direction in the first operating mode. The pneumatic arrangement is preferably designed in a second operating mode to distribute the compressed air from the branch line, in particular the first branch line and / or the second branch line, such that a first portion of the compressed air is returned to the main pneumatic line counter to the filling direction and, furthermore, a second portion of the compressed air is provided at the compressed air supply connection.The second operating mode thus represents a distribution mode in which compressed air is distributed as needed between the pneumatic main line for regenerating the air dryer and the compressed air supply connection for supplying a compressed air consumer. The pneumatic arrangement is preferably designed to receive control signals and to adjust the first and second portions depending on the received control signals. Consequently, the compressed air consumer can be supplied with sufficient compressed air, such as a sensor cleaning device, while simultaneously regenerating the air dryer. The distribution of the first and second portions can thus be optimized in terms of control technology.

[0028] The pneumatic arrangement preferably comprises a controllable throttle valve designed to throttle compressed air fed to the compressed air supply connection in the filling direction. For this purpose, the throttle valve preferably has a throttle point with a variable flow cross-section. The throttle valve preferably has a control pressure line and is designed to regulate the flow cross-section depending on the control pressure. The control pressure line preferably connects to the main pneumatic line downstream of the throttle point. Alternatively, the throttle valve is preferably electrically controllable and designed to regulate the flow cross-section by actuation by means of the control device. The throttle valve influences the compressed air flow by changing the flow cross-section in the main pneumatic line.If the valve reduces the flow cross-section, this impedes the flow of compressed air in the main pneumatic line, increasing the resistance to the flow of compressed air. This, in turn, causes the back pressure upstream of the throttle point to rise. The throttle valve is designed to throttle the pressure at the supply connection, i.e. downstream of the throttle valve, to the supply pressure and / or the volume flow. The pressure is throttled to the supply pressure by reducing the flow cross-section in the area of ​​the throttle point and subsequently releasing the compressed air passing through the throttle point. If the flow cross-section is reduced to its maximum by the throttle valve, no more compressed air is fed to the supply connection.To throttle the volume flow, the throttle valve cooperates in particular with a pressure relief valve, such as a vent check valve arranged in the vent line. The flow cross-section in the throttle valve is reduced until the back pressure upstream of the throttle valve reaches the pressure relief valve and provides sufficient pressure to open the valve. The vent check valve preferably opens at a pressure of at least 0.5 bar. By controlling the throttle valve in this way, the input volume flow provided at the compressed air connection can be divided into the supply volume flow provided at the compressed air connection and an excess portion, which is returned against the filling direction for regeneration of the air dryer.

[0029] The pneumatic arrangement further preferably comprises at least a first check valve opening in the filling direction and a bypass line branching off downstream of the check valve and connecting upstream of the check valve, with a second check valve opening in the return direction—i.e., opposite to the filling direction. The pneumatic arrangement further preferably comprises a throttle valve arranged in the bypass line downstream of the second check valve in the return direction, which throttle valve is designed to throttle compressed air fed to the air dryer opposite to the filling direction. For this purpose, the throttle valve preferably has a throttle point with a variable flow cross-section. The throttle valve preferably has a control pressure line and is designed to regulate the flow cross-section depending on the control pressure.The control pressure line preferably connects to the bypass line downstream of the throttle point in the return direction - i.e., opposite to the filling direction. The first check valve is preferably arranged in the pneumatic main line, with the first check valve and the second check valve being arranged between the (first) air dryer and the compressed air supply connection. Alternatively or additionally, the first check valve is preferably arranged in the (second) branch line, with the first check valve and the second check valve being arranged between the second air dryer and the compressed air supply connection. In order to be returned in the branch line or the pneumatic main line, the compressed air must therefore necessarily pass through the controllable throttle valve, which is designed to throttle the pressure of the compressed air flowing to the respective air dryer.According to a preferred embodiment, this compressed air is then passed through a throttle located downstream of the air dryer in the filling direction, where it is further expanded. The resulting expansion of the compressed air reduces its relative humidity.

[0030] Further preferably, in a third operating mode, the pneumatic arrangement is configured to allow compressed air to be returned from the first branch line and / or the main pneumatic line to the second branch line, counter to the filling direction. Thus, regeneration of the second air dryer can also be controlled via the pneumatic arrangement.

[0031] The pneumatic arrangement thus preferably assumes a distribution function of the compressed air guided towards the compressed air supply connection as required for regenerating the first air dryer in the first operating mode and / or for regenerating the second air dryer in the third operating mode and / or for providing it at the compressed air supply connection for a compressed air consumer in the basic operating mode or in the second operating mode. According to a further preferred embodiment, the throttle is arranged in the (first) branch line, in particular upstream of the (first) branch line valve. More preferably, the throttle is a first throttle and a second throttle is arranged in the second branch line, in particular upstream of the second branch line valve.A throttle valve located in the branch line upstream of the respective throttle valve ensures that the compressed air is sufficiently expanded to allow regeneration of the air dryer in the event of recirculation through the main pneumatic line. Furthermore, the expansion of the compressed air before the branch line valve protects the branch line valve and the branch line from frost-related malfunctions, as the compressed air already has a reduced relative humidity before the branch valve due to the expansion.

[0032] Preferably, the compressed air supply system further comprises a pressure sensor arranged on or in the pneumatic main line upstream of the air dryer and / or the outgoing branch line in the filling direction, which is designed to detect the pressure in the pneumatic main line. Thus, the pressure in the pneumatic main line can be monitored, with the pressure sensor preferably communicating with the electronic control device, and at least one of the branch line switching valves and / or the pneumatic arrangement being controlled based on the signals provided by the pressure sensor.

[0033] To achieve this object, the invention, in a second aspect, provides a compressed air supply system, in particular for an open pneumatic system, according to claim 16. The compressed air supply system for a sensor cleaning device of a vehicle, in particular a passenger car, according to the second aspect comprises a compressed air generator, in particular a compressor, for providing compressed air at a compressed air connection, and a compressed air supply system connected to the compressed air generator via the compressed air connection for providing compressed air for a sensor cleaning device. The object mentioned above is achieved in such a compressed air supply system in that the compressed air supply system is designed according to the first aspect of the invention.Preferred embodiments and advantages described with reference to the first aspect of the invention are therefore also advantages and preferred embodiments of the second aspect of the invention, and vice versa. Preferably, the compressed air supply system further comprises a pressure sensor arranged between the water separator and the air dryer, in particular between the water separator and the main line switching valve, which is designed to detect the pressure in the filling direction upstream of the air dryer. Thus, the pressure of the compressed air fed to the air dryer or into the branch line and dehumidified by the water separator can be monitored. The pressure sensor preferably communicates with the electronic control device, and at least one of the branch line switching valves and / or the pneumatic arrangement is controlled based on the signals provided by the pressure sensor.

[0034] Preferably, the compressed air supply system further comprises an additional compressed air source, wherein the control device is configured to connect the compressed air source to the main pneumatic line as needed. Thus, an additional compressed air source is connected in addition to the compressed air supply. An additional compressed air source increases the available compressed air quantity, i.e., the available volume flow, and allows for response to varying system requirements.

[0035] Furthermore, the compressed air source is preferably designed to provide an inlet pressure above the supply pressure of, for example, 5 bar at the compressed air connection. The increased inlet pressure improves the efficiency of the water separator and thus the pre-drying of the compressed air, so that switching on the compressed air source to increase the inlet pressure slows down the saturation of the air dryer. Specifically, the increased inlet pressure increases the temperature of the compressed air provided by the compressor and thus also its water quantity per m³. 3 . Due to the higher temperature, it is easier to cool the compressed air in the water separator to temperatures below the condensation temperature, as the resulting increase in the amount of water per m 3 Compressed air the condensation temperature rises.

[0036] It is preferred that the compressed air supplier is a first compressor and that the compressed air source further comprises a second compressor which is designed to provide compressed air at the compressed air connection. By means of two compressors, compressed air with an increased volume flow and an increased pressure can be provided at the compressed air connection, or the compressed air supplier can be switched off as required, with compressed air preferably being provided by the compressor. Alternatively or additionally, the compressed air source comprises a reservoir which is fluidly connected to the pneumatic main line and / or the second branch line. By means of such a reservoir, compressed air with an increased volume flow and an increased pressure can be provided at the compressed air connection, or the compressed air supplier can be switched off as required, with compressed air preferably being provided by the compressed air source, i.e. the reservoir.

[0037] To achieve this objective, the invention, in a third aspect, provides a vehicle according to claim 19 with a compressed air supply system. The vehicle, in particular a passenger car, according to the third aspect of the invention comprises a compressed air consumer, in particular a sensor cleaning device connected to a compressed air supply connection, a compressed air supply system for providing compressed air in the compressed air supply connection, and an electronic control device for controlling the compressed air supply system.The object mentioned above is achieved in a third aspect in that the compressed air supply system of the vehicle is designed according to the second aspect of the invention and further in that the electronic control unit (ECU) is control-technically connected at least to the pneumatic branch line switching valve, in particular to a first pneumatic branch line switching valve and / or a second pneumatic branch line switching valve. Thus, the control unit can enable the branch line to be released as needed in the direction of the compressed air supply connection in order to permit regeneration of the air dryer. Preferred embodiments and advantages described with reference to the second aspect of the invention are therefore also advantages and preferred embodiments of the third aspect of the invention, and vice versa.

[0038] Further preferably, the control device is connected for control purposes to a vent valve in a vent line leading from the main pneumatic line. The control device is preferably designed to control the supply pressure provided by the compressed air supply system at the compressed air supply connection depending on the inlet pressure detected by the pressure sensor, in particular at the compressed air connection. This makes it possible, for example, to respond to changing demands of the compressed air consumers. The maximum supply pressure is preferably 5 bar. In particular, however, a pressure above the supply pressure of 5 bar can also be supplied to the compressed air supply system. As described above, this increases the temperature of the compressed air provided at the compressed air connection and its humidity per m3 of compressed air, thereby improving the efficiency of the water separator.

[0039] Further preferably, the control device is also configured to control the pneumatic arrangement and can thus also control the distribution of the compressed air for providing it at the compressed air supply connection for a pressure consumer as well as the return of the compressed air for regenerating the air dryer.

[0040] Preferably, the control device is further configured to control the pneumatic main line switching valve and is connected to the pressure sensor in a signal-conducting manner.

[0041] Depending on the design of the respective valve, controlling a switching valve to block a pneumatic line can be understood as either energizing or de-energizing the line. Similarly, controlling a switching valve to release a pneumatic line can be understood as either energizing or de-energizing the line, depending on the design of the respective valve.

[0042] The control device is preferably designed to connect the compressed air source to the pneumatic main line as needed, depending on the supply requirement of the compressed air consumer. An increased supply requirement with regard to the supply volume flow can occur, for example, if all nozzles of a sensor cleaning device need to be supplied with compressed air. Because the control device can switch on an additional compressed air source depending on this supply requirement, a reaction to such supply requirements is possible and a sufficient supply volume flow with the supply pressure to supply all nozzles can be provided. Further preferably, the control device is designed to connect the compressed air source to the pneumatic main line as needed, depending on sensor signals.The compressed air supply system preferably comprises at least one temperature sensor designed to monitor the temperature of the compressed air source, in particular the compressor, and to provide sensor signals. The control device is connected to the temperature sensor in a signal-conducting manner. Switching off the compressed air source may be necessary in the event of impending overheating. By switching on the compressed air source depending on the sensor signals from the temperature sensor monitoring the compressed air source, such impending overheating can be detected, and the operation of the compressed air supply system can be maintained by the compressed air source.

[0043] Alternatively or additionally, the control device is preferably designed to monitor the saturation level of the air dryer and, depending on the saturation level of the air dryer, to connect one or more compressed air sources to the main pneumatic line as needed. Furthermore, by connecting the compressed air source, a volume flow at the compressed air connection, i.e., an input volume flow, can preferably be provided above the supply volume flow of, for example, 30 l / min. An increased input volume flow, which is above the supply volume flow to be provided at the compressed air supply connection, is particularly advantageous during the regeneration of the first or second air dryer, or during simultaneous regeneration of the air dryer and provision of compressed air at the compressed air supply connection.The increased input flow rate improves regeneration efficiency, making it particularly advantageous to switch on the compressed air source in cases of high saturation or a high saturation level. This allows the saturation level to be reduced quickly. Particularly advantageous is the ability to regenerate two air dryers simultaneously by switching on the compressed air source to provide an input flow rate above the supply flow rate.

[0044] Preferably, one, several or all of the following are designed as normally closed solenoid directional control valves: the at least one main line switching valve, the at least one branch line switching valve, at least one nozzle valve of a sensor cleaning device connected to the compressed air supply system, the at least one vent valve, and a compressor vent valve, wherein the solenoid directional control valves have a coil for generating a magnetic force and an armature which can be moved by the magnetic force against a spring force acting in the direction of a valve seat, and are designed to be moved away from the valve seat by energizing it with an opening control current against the spring force and to rest against the valve seat by energizing it with a heating control current which is smaller than the opening control current, wherein the coil is designed to heat the solenoid directional control valve when the heating control current is applied.The possibility of heating these valves reduces the risk of frost-related malfunctions in the pneumatic system as a whole. This applies not only to the sensor cleaning device and other compressed air consumers, but also, in particular, to the compressed air supply system.

[0045] Preferably, the control device is further configured to selectively supply one, several or all of the following solenoid directional control valves with an opening control current and a heating control current: the at least one main line switching valve, the at least one branch line switching valve, the at least one nozzle valve, the at least one vent valve, and a compressor vent valve.

[0046] The possibility of heating the aforementioned valves reduces the risk of frost-related malfunctions in the pneumatic system and overall functional impairment. This applies not only to the sensor cleaning device and other compressed air consumers, but also in particular to the compressed air supply system. Using the existing coil of the solenoid directional valves eliminates the need for additional heating elements. It should be understood that heating the solenoid directional valves is particularly necessary before opening, as they remain closed for extended periods of time. Functional impairment due to icing is particularly likely if an icy valve or its armature is to be moved by control. Energizing the solenoid directional valve before it actually opens prevents it from freezing due to heating of the valve, which preferably occurs continuously during operation.

[0047] Preferably, the compressed air supply system, particularly preferably the compressor and / or the water separator, in particular at least the separator valve, is arranged in a front region of the vehicle in the direction of travel. Thus, the compressed air supply system and in particular the compressor and / or the water separator are additionally cooled by the airstream, and the condensation of the compressed air supplied at the compressed air connection and compressed by the compressor in the water separator is further optimized.

[0048] Furthermore, the invention achieves the object in a fourth aspect by a method according to claim 22. The method according to the fourth aspect of the invention for operating a compressed air supply system, in particular a compressed air supply system according to the second aspect of the invention, comprises the steps: a) Providing compressed air at a compressed air connection, which is connected to a compressed air supply connection via a pneumatic main line, b) Separating water from the compressed air provided at the compressed air connection to provide dehumidified compressed air, c) Drying the dehumidified compressed air guided in a filling direction to the compressed air supply connection with an air dryer arranged in the pneumatic main line in a basic operating mode, d) Opening a branch line through which pneumatic flow can flow in the direction of the compressed air supply connection by means of a pneumatic branch line switching valve in a first operating mode,e) Return of dehumidified compressed air from the branch line through the pneumatic main line opposite to the filling direction in the first operating mode.

[0049] By opening the branch line, allowing pneumatic flow toward the compressed air supply connection, and returning dehumidified compressed air from the branch line through the main pneumatic line opposite to the filling direction, the method according to the fourth aspect of the invention utilizes the advantages described with respect to the first aspect of the invention. Preferred embodiments and advantages described with respect to the first aspect of the invention are therefore also advantages and preferred embodiments of the fourth aspect of the invention, and vice versa.

[0050] It is further preferred that the method further comprises at least one of the following steps: f) blocking the branch line by the pneumatic branch line switching valve in the basic operating mode, g) distributing compressed air from the branch line in a second operating mode such that a first portion of the compressed air is returned to the pneumatic main line counter to the filling direction and further a second portion of the compressed air is provided at the compressed air supply connection, wherein step g) preferably comprises receiving control signals and controlling the first portion and the second portion depending on the received control signals by a pneumatic arrangement, h) returning compressed air from a first branch line and / or the pneumatic main line to a second branch line counter to the filling direction to a second air dryer in a third operating mode,i) Relieving compressed air returned in the main pneumatic line against the filling direction, j) Relieving compressed air returned in the second branch line against the filling direction.

[0051] Embodiments of the invention will now be described below with reference to the drawings in comparison to the prior art, some of which is also shown. These are not necessarily intended to represent the embodiments to scale; rather, where useful for explanation, the drawings are schematic and / or slightly distorted. With regard to additions to the teachings immediately apparent from the drawings, reference is made to the relevant prior art. It should be noted that many modifications and changes to the form and detail of an embodiment can be made without departing from the general idea of ​​the invention. The features of the invention disclosed in the description, in the drawings and in the claims can be essential for the further development of the invention, both individually and in any combination.Furthermore, all combinations of at least two of the features disclosed in the description, the drawings, and / or the claims fall within the scope of the invention. The general idea of ​​the invention is not limited to the exact form or detail of the preferred embodiment shown and described below, nor is it limited to an object that would be limited compared to the object claimed in the claims. In the case of specified dimensioning ranges, values ​​within the stated limits are also intended to be disclosed as limit values ​​and can be used and claimed as desired.

[0052] Further advantages, features and details of the invention will become apparent from the following description of the preferred embodiments and from the drawing, which shows:

[0053] FIG. 1 shows a compressed air supply system in a perspective view;

[0054] FIG. 2a shows a compressed air supply system for a compressed air supply system according to FIG. 1 according to a first embodiment in a basic operating mode;

[0055] FIG. 2b shows the compressed air supply system according to FIG. 2a in a first operating mode;

[0056] FIG. 3a shows a compressed air supply system for a compressed air supply system according to FIG. 1 according to a second preferred embodiment in a basic operating mode;

[0057] FIG. 3b shows the compressed air supply system according to FIG. 3a in a first operating mode;

[0058] FIG. 3c shows the compressed air supply system according to FIG. 3a in a standby mode;

[0059] FIG. 4a shows a compressed air supply system for a compressed air supply system according to FIG. 1 according to a third preferred embodiment in a basic operating mode; FIG. 4b shows the compressed air supply system according to FIG. 4a in a first operating mode;

[0060] FIG. 5a shows a compressed air supply system for a compressed air supply system according to FIG. 1 according to a fourth embodiment in a basic operating mode;

[0061] FIG. 5b shows the compressed air supply system according to FIG. 5a in a first operating mode;

[0062] FIG. 6a shows a compressed air supply system for a compressed air supply system according to FIG. 1 in a fifth embodiment in a basic operating mode;

[0063] FIG. 6b shows the compressed air supply system according to FIG. 6a in a first operating mode;

[0064] FIG. 6c shows the compressed air supply system according to FIG. 6a in a second operating mode;

[0065] FIG. 6d shows the compressed air supply system according to FIG. 6a in a third operating mode;

[0066] FIG. 7 shows a compressed air supply system for a compressed air supply system according to FIG. 1 in a sixth embodiment in a first operating mode;

[0067] FIG. 8 shows a compressed air supply system for a compressed air supply system according to FIG. 1 in a seventh embodiment in a first operating mode;

[0068] FIG. 9 shows a vehicle with a compressed air supply system schematically in a first embodiment;

[0069] FIG. 10 shows a vehicle with a compressed air supply system, schematically in a second embodiment; FIG. 11 shows a vehicle with a compressed air supply system, schematically in a third embodiment;

[0070] FIG. 12 shows a solenoid directional control valve for a vehicle according to FIGS. 7 to 11;

[0071] FIG. 13a shows a first embodiment of a pneumatic arrangement;

[0072] FIG. 13b shows a second embodiment of a pneumatic arrangement;

[0073] FIG. 13c shows a third embodiment of a pneumatic arrangement;

[0074] FIG. 13d shows a fourth embodiment of a pneumatic arrangement; and

[0075] FIG. 14 shows a method for operating a compressed air supply system according to FIG. 1 schematically.

[0076] The compressed air supply system 1200 according to FIG. 1 comprises a compressed air supply system 100. Furthermore, the compressed air supply system 1200 comprises a compressed air generator 200, which is preferably designed as a compressor 201 or compressor 202. The compressor 202 is driven by an electric motor 203.

[0077] The compressed air supply system 1200 is connected to the compressed air generator 200 via a compressed air connection 1 (see FIG. 2a to FIG. 11). The compressed air supply system 100 comprises an air dryer 5 arranged in a pneumatic main line 12 (see FIG. 2a to FIG. 11) and a water separator 6 arranged between the air dryer 5 and the compressed air connection 1 (see FIG. 2a to FIG. 11). The compressed air supply system 100 further comprises a pressure control module 101, which has a number of pneumatic branch line switching valves (not shown) for distributing the pressure within the compressed air supply system 100.

[0078] The operation of the compressed air supply system 1200, and in particular of the compressed air supply system 100, is explained below using preferred embodiments in FIGS. 2a to 11. FIGS. 2a and 2b show a first embodiment of the compressed air supply system 100.

[0079] The compressed air supply system 100 comprises a compressed air connection 1 for connection to a compressed air generator 200 (see FIG. 1 ) and a compressed air supply connection 2 for connecting a compressed air consumer 300 (see FIG. 9 to FIG. 11 ). The compressed air connection 1 is connected to the compressed air supply connection 2 via a pneumatic main line 12. From the pneumatic main line 12, a vent line 13 also leads to a vent connection 3, which is configured to vent the pneumatic main line 12. The compressed air supply system 100 further has an air dryer 5 arranged in the pneumatic main line 12. The air dryer 5 is configured to dry the compressed air 120 provided at the compressed air connection 1 and conveyed in a filling direction B through the pneumatic main line. A water separator 6 is also arranged in the pneumatic main line 12 between the air dryer 5 and the compressed air connection 1.The water separator 6 comprises a condensation dryer 16 and a drain valve 26, which are configured to remove at least a portion of the moisture from the compressed air 110 provided at the compressed air connection 1 as condensate K. Thus, partially dehumidified compressed air 120 is provided by the water separator, and the saturation of the air dryer 5 by the partially dehumidified compressed air 120 in the pneumatic main line is slowed down.

[0080] A vent valve assembly 23 is arranged in the vent line 13, which preferably comprises an electrically controllable 2 / 2-way valve 23.1 in the form of a 2 / 2-way solenoid valve 31 (see FIG. 12). Furthermore, a vent check valve 23.2 of the vent valve assembly 23 is preferably arranged downstream of the vent valve 23.1 in the direction of the vent line 3, which preferably opens in a pressure-controlled manner in the direction of the vent connection 3. When the vent valve 23.1 is open, the vent check valve 23.2 thus preferably opens the vent line due to the compressed air in the vent line 13. At the same time, the vent check valve 23.2 prevents moisture from entering via the vent line 13. It should also be understood that the vent line 13 can branch off at any position between the water separator 6 and the air dryer 5.The compressed air supply system 100 further comprises a throttle 8. The throttle 8 is preferably arranged downstream of the air dryer 5 in the filling direction B (see FIG. 2a). The throttle 8 is configured to throttle the compressed air 120' dried by the air dryer 5. Furthermore, the throttle 8 is designed to expand the compressed air 141 guided counter to the filling direction B (see FIG. 2b) and to reduce its relative humidity so that the expanded compressed air 141' flows through the air dryer 5.

[0081] Between the water separator 6 and the air dryer 5, a branch line 14 also branches off from the pneumatic main line 12, which connects back to the pneumatic main line 12 between the air dryer 5 and the compressed air supply connection 2. The branch line 14 has a pneumatic branch line switching valve 24 in the form of a 2 / 2-way solenoid directional control valve 31 (see FIG. 12). The pneumatic branch line switching valve 24 is preferably designed as an electrically controllable 2 / 2-way valve and can be selectively switched such that the compressed air supply system 100 can be operated in a basic operating mode N according to FIG. 2a and a first operating mode B1 according to FIG. 2b.

[0082] The compressed air supply system 100 preferably comprises the pressure control module 101 shown in FIG. 1. The pneumatic branch line switching valve 24 and the vent valve assembly 23 are assigned to the pressure control module 101.

[0083] FIG. 2a shows the compressed air supply system 100 in a basic operating mode N. In the basic operating mode N, the pneumatic branch line switching valve 24 is configured to block the branch line 14. In this state, the vent line 13 is preferably also blocked by the vent valve 23. Partially dehumidified compressed air 120 from the water separator 6 can thus flow exclusively through the pneumatic main line 12 in the filling direction B to the air dryer 5 before being provided as dried compressed air 120' at the compressed air supply connection 2.

[0084] FIG. 2b shows the compressed air supply system 100 in a first operating mode B1. In the first operating mode, the branch line switching valve 24 is designed to open the branch line 14 so that pneumatic flow can only occur in the direction of the compressed air supply connection 2. Thus, compressed air 141 can flow through the branch line 14 in the direction of the compressed air supply connection 2. In the first operating mode B1 shown, the compressed air supply system 100 is designed to allow a return of compressed air 141 from the branch line 14 in a return direction R, opposite to the filling direction B (see FIG. 2a). It should be understood that the compressed air supply system 100, through its corresponding design, inhibits or prevents the flow of compressed air through the pneumatic main line 12.

[0085] In the first operating mode B1, the vent valve 23.1 preferentially opens the vent line 13 so that the pneumatic main line 12 can be vented as needed. Venting the pneumatic main line 12 requires a sufficiently high pressure to open the vent check valve 23.2.

[0086] The compressed air 141 flowing through the branch line 14 is at least partially dehumidified by the water separator 6 and can thus advantageously be used to regenerate the air dryer 5. When the compressed air 141 is returned in the return direction R through the pneumatic main line 12, the compressed air 141 first flows through the throttle 8 and is expanded. The relative humidity of the compressed air 141 expanded by the throttle 8 is further reduced by the expansion.

[0087] The expanded compressed air 141' with reduced relative humidity from the branch line 14 then flows through the air dryer 5 in the return direction R and binds a portion of the moisture adsorbed by the air dryer 5. The compressed air 131, moistened by the regeneration of the air dryer 5, is then released into the environment in the venting direction E via the venting line 13 and the venting connection 3.

[0088] FIGS. 3a to 3c show a second embodiment of the compressed air supply system 100. Identical components have identical reference numerals here, and to avoid repetition, only the differences between the first and second embodiments of the compressed air supply system 100 will be discussed. The second embodiment of the compressed air supply system 100 is further developed in that the pneumatic branch line switching valve 24 is a first pneumatic branch line switching valve 24, and the compressed air supply system 100 further comprises a pneumatic main line switching valve 25 arranged in the pneumatic main line 12 in the form of a 2 / 2-way solenoid directional control valve 31 (see FIG. 12). The pneumatic main line switching valve 25 is preferably also designed as an electrically controllable 2 / 2-way valve and is configured to selectively control the pneumatic main line 12 in the basic operating mode N in the filling direction B (see FIG.3a) can be opened pneumatically.

[0089] The compressed air supply system 100 has the pressure control module 101 shown in FIG. 1. The pressure control module 101 is assigned the first pneumatic branch line switching valve 24, the main line switching valve 25, and the vent valve assembly 23.

[0090] FIG. 3a shows the compressed air supply system 100 in basic operating mode N, in which the first pneumatic branch line switching valve 24 assumes a blocking position and blocks the branch line 14. Furthermore, the vent valve 23.1 also assumes a blocking position to block the vent line 13. Thus, the partially dehumidified compressed air 120 can be guided exclusively in the filling direction B through the pneumatic main line 12 and provided as dry compressed air 120' at the compressed air supply connection 2 in a throttled manner.

[0091] In FIG. 3b, the compressed air supply system 100 is shown in the first operating mode B1, in which the first pneumatic branch line switching valve 24 pneumatically opens the branch line 14 in the direction of the compressed air supply connection 2, so that compressed air 141 can flow through the branch line 14.

[0092] The main line switching valve 25 is shown in a de-energized state, in which it blocks the pneumatic main line 12 so that no compressed air is conducted through the pneumatic main line 12 in the filling direction B (see FIG. 3a). Furthermore, in the first operating mode B1 shown in FIG. 3b, the vent valve 23.1 is shown in an energized state, in which it releases the vent line 13 so that it can flow pneumatically. The compressed air 141 from the branch line 14 can thus be conducted into the pneumatic main line 12 as compressed air 141 for regenerating the air dryer 5 in the return direction R. The compressed air 141 is preferably expanded by means of the throttle 8. The expanded compressed air 141' then flows through the air dryer 5 in the return direction R and binds a portion of the moisture adsorbed by the air dryer 5.The compressed air 131 moistened by the regeneration of the air dryer 5 is then discharged in the venting direction E via the venting line 13 and the venting connection 3.

[0093] In FIG. 3c, the compressed air supply system 100 is shown in a rest mode I. In rest mode I, the first pneumatic branch line switching valve 24 blocks the branch line 14, the main line switching valve 25 blocks the pneumatic main line 12, and the vent valve 23.1 blocks the vent line 13. The pneumatic branch line switching valves 23.1, 24, 25 are preferably designed as normally closed 2 / 2-way valves, so that in the de-energized state, as shown in FIG. 3a, they block the respective pneumatic lines 12, 13, 14, and the compressed air supply system 100 is in rest mode I in the de-energized state.

[0094] FIGS. 4a and 4b show a third embodiment of the compressed air supply system 100. Identical or similar components have identical reference numerals as in the previous embodiments of the compressed air supply system 100. To avoid repetition, reference is made to the above description of the compressed air supply system according to the first and second embodiments, and only differences are discussed below.

[0095] The third embodiment differs from the second embodiment only in the design of the main line switching valve 25. The pneumatic main line switching valve 25 according to the second embodiment was designed as a normally closed pneumatic branch line switching valve. In the de-energized state of this valve, the pneumatic main line 12 was thus blocked. The main line switching valve 25 according to the third embodiment, in contrast, is a normally open switching valve. Thus, a permanent compressed air supply is provided at the compressed air supply connection 2, which is interrupted only as needed for regeneration of the air dryer 5 in the first operating mode B1 (see FIG. 4b).

[0096] The compressed air supply system 100 has the pressure control module 101 shown in FIG. 1. The first pneumatic branch line switching valve 24, the main line switching valve 25, and the vent valve 23.1 are assigned to the pressure control module 101.

[0097] In the basic operating mode N of the compressed air supply system 100 shown in FIG. 4a, the main line switching valve 25 is shown in the de-energized state, and the pneumatic main line 12 can be pneumatically flowed through in the filling direction B. The first pneumatic branch line switching valve 24 and the vent valve 23.1, however, continue to be designed as de-energized branch line switching valves, so that in the basic operating mode N shown, in their de-energized state, they block the branch line 14 and the vent line 13, respectively.

[0098] FIGS. 5a and 5b show the compressed air supply system 100 according to a fourth embodiment. Identical or similar components have identical reference numerals, and to avoid repetition, reference is made to the description of the first to third embodiments of the compressed air supply system, and only differences from the previous embodiments are discussed.

[0099] The fourth embodiment differs from the first embodiment shown in FIGS. 2a and 2b in that the air dryer 5.1 is a first air dryer and the throttle 8.1 is a first throttle, which are arranged in the pneumatic main line 12, and the compressed air supply system 100 further comprises a second air dryer 5.2 and furthermore a second throttle 8.2 is arranged between the second air dryer 5.2 and the compressed air supply connection 2.

[0100] Furthermore, the vent line 13.1 is a first vent line, and the vent valve 23.1 is a first vent valve arranged in the first vent line 13.1. The first vent line 13.1 branches off from the pneumatic main line 12 between the water separator 6 and the first air dryer 5.1. Furthermore, the compressed air supply system 100 comprises a second vent line 13.2, in which a second vent valve 23.3 is arranged. The second vent line 13.2 branches off from the branch line 14 between the branch line switching valve 24 and the second air dryer 5.2. The vent check valve 23.2 is arranged downstream of the first and second vent valves 23.1, 23.3 in the direction of the vent connection 3.

[0101] The compressed air supply system 100 has the pressure control module 101 shown in FIG. 1. The pressure control module 101 is assigned the first pneumatic branch line switching valve 24 as well as the first vent valve 23.1 and the second vent valve 23.3.

[0102] FIG. 5a shows the compressed air supply system 100 in basic operating mode N, in which the compressed air 120 partially dehumidified by the water separator 6 is guided via the pneumatic main line 12 to the first air dryer 5.1, dried by the latter, and then throttled by the first throttle 8.1 to be further guided as dried compressed air 120' in the filling direction B. In the basic operating mode N shown, the branch line 14 is blocked by the pneumatic branch line switching valve 24. Furthermore, the first vent line 13.1 is also blocked by the first vent valve 23.1, and the second vent line 13.2 is blocked by the second vent valve 23.3 in the form of a 2 / 2-way solenoid directional control valve 31 (see FIG. 12).

[0103] In the fourth embodiment shown, the compressed air supply system 100 further comprises a pneumatic arrangement 20 associated with the compressed air supply connection 2. The pneumatic arrangement 20 is preferably designed to cooperate with the first pneumatic branch line switching valve 24.

[0104] In the basic operating mode N shown in FIG. 5a, the pneumatic arrangement 20 is preferably designed to allow the supply of the dried compressed air 120' in the filling direction B towards the compressed air supply connection 2.

[0105] FIG. 5b shows the compressed air supply system 100 in the first operating mode B1. In the first operating mode B1, the first pneumatic branch line switching valve 24 is designed to open the branch line 14 so that it can flow pneumatically through it in the direction of the compressed air supply connection 2, so that compressed air 110 is pre-dried by the water separator 6, flows as pre-dried compressed air 141 via the branch line 14 and the second air dryer 5.2 as well as the second throttle 8.2, and can be guided as dried compressed air 141' in the direction of the compressed air supply connection 2, preferably via the pneumatic arrangement 20. The pneumatic arrangement 20 is preferably designed to allow a return of compressed air 141' from the branch line 14 into the pneumatic main line 12 in the return direction R in the first operating mode B1 shown. The returned compressed air 141 ' first flows through the first throttle 8.1 and is expanded there.The compressed air 141' is then guided in the return direction R through the first air dryer 5.1, thereby regenerating the first air dryer 5.1. The moist compressed air 131 exiting the first air dryer 5.1 is then guided via the first vent line 13.1 and the open first vent valve 23.1 toward the vent connection 3. The pressure in the first vent line 13.1 causes the vent check valve 23.2 to open in a known manner and release the first vent line 13.1.

[0106] Preferably, the pneumatic arrangement 20 is also configured to allow the return of dried compressed air 120' from the pneumatic main line 12 to the branch line 14 in order to regenerate the second air dryer 5.2. The compressed air used to regenerate the second air dryer 5.2 can preferably be directed to the vent connection 3 via the second vent line 13.2 and the second vent valve 23.2.

[0107] FIGS. 6a to 6d show a fifth embodiment of the compressed air supply system 100. Identical or similar components have identical reference numerals in this case, and to avoid repetition, reference is made to the description of the first to third embodiments of the compressed air supply system, and only differences from the previous embodiments are discussed.

[0108] The compressed air supply system 100 according to the fifth embodiment differs from the fourth embodiment shown above in FIGS. 5a and 5b in that the branch line 14.1 is a first branch line with a first pneumatic branch line switching valve 24.1. The compressed air supply system 100 further comprises a second branch line 14.2 with a second pneumatic branch line switching valve 24.2 in the form of a 2 / 2-way solenoid valve 31 (see FIG. 12). The second air dryer 5.2 and the second throttle 8.2 are arranged in the second branch line.

[0109] 14.2. The second branch line 14.2 also branches off from the pneumatic main line 12 between the water separator 6 and the first air dryer 5.1.

[0110] A second vent line 13.2 branches off from the second branch line 14.2 between the second pneumatic branch line switching valve 24.2 and the second air dryer 5.2. A second vent valve is located in the second vent line 13.2.

[0111] 23.3. A vent check valve 23.2 is arranged in a known manner in the direction of the vent connection 3 downstream of the first vent valve 23.1 and the second vent valve 23.3.

[0112] The compressed air supply system 100 has the pressure control module 101 shown in FIG. 1. The pressure control module 101 is assigned the first pneumatic branch line switching valve 24.1, the second pneumatic branch line switching valve 24.2, as well as the first vent valve 23.1 and the second vent valve 23.3.

[0113] FIG. 6a shows the compressed air supply system 100 in basic operating mode N, in which partially dehumidified compressed air 120 from the water separator 6 is fed via the pneumatic main line 12 to the first air dryer 5.1, dried therein, and then throttled by the first throttle 8.1. The dried compressed air 120' is guided in the filling direction B to the pneumatic arrangement 20. The pneumatic arrangement 20 is configured to guide the dried compressed air 120' to the compressed air supply connection 2 in basic operating mode N.

[0114] FIG. 6b shows the compressed air supply system 100 in a first operating mode B1. In the first operating mode B1, the pneumatic arrangement 20 is designed to direct the compressed air 141 from the first branch line 14.1 and the dried compressed air 142' from the second branch line 14.2 counter to the filling direction B as a common compressed air flow 140 in the return direction R into the pneumatic main line 12. In the pneumatic main line, the returned compressed air 140 is first expanded by means of the first throttle 8.1 and, as expanded compressed air 140', has a reduced relative humidity. The expanded compressed air 140' of the common compressed air flow is then fed to the first air dryer 5.1 for regeneration. The moist compressed air 131 exiting from the first air dryer 5.1 is then discharged via the first vent line 13.1 and the first vent valve 23.1 as well as the vent check valve 23.2 in the venting direction E to guide compressed air to the venting connection 3 and released from there.

[0115] A second operating mode B2 is shown in FIG. 6c. The second operating mode B2 of the compressed air supply system 100 differs from the first operating mode B1 (cf. FIG. 6b) in that the pneumatic arrangement 20 is designed in the second operating mode B2 to return a first portion 140.1 of the common compressed air flow 140 into the pneumatic main line 12 in the return direction R and to provide a second portion 140.2 at the compressed air supply connection 2. Thus, in the second operating mode, the pneumatic arrangement 20 simultaneously enables regeneration of the first air dryer 5.1 and supply of a compressed air consumer, such as a sensor cleaning device (cf. FIGS. 9, 10 and 11), with compressed air at the compressed air supply connection 2. Furthermore, the pneumatic arrangement 20 is designed to allow compressed air to be returned against the filling direction B through the second branch line 14.2.

[0116] FIG. 6d shows the compressed air supply system 100 in a third operating mode B3. In the third operating mode B3, the pneumatic arrangement 20 is designed to return compressed air 120' from the pneumatic main line 12 and compressed air 141 from the first branch line 14.1 as a common compressed air flow 150 into the second branch line 14.2 in a return direction R. The compressed air 150 returned in the second branch line 14.2 is expanded by the second throttle 8.2 and flows through the second air dryer 5.2 as expanded compressed air 150' in the return direction R. As already described with reference to the fourth embodiment (cf. FIG. 5a and FIG. 5b), the moist compressed air 132 used for the regeneration of the second air dryer can be guided to the vent connection 3 via the second vent line 13.2.

[0117] FIG. 7 shows a sixth embodiment of the compressed air supply system 100. Identical or similar components have identical reference numerals in this case, and to avoid repetition, reference is made to the description of the first to third embodiments of the compressed air supply system, and only differences from the previous embodiments are discussed.

[0118] The compressed air supply system 100 according to the sixth embodiment differs from the embodiment shown above in FIG. 2b in that the branch line switching valve 24 is arranged at a branch point A. At the branch point A, the branch line 14 branches off from the pneumatic main line 12. The branch line switching valve 24 is further designed as a 3 / 2-way valve 34. In the first operating mode B1 shown in FIG. 7, the 3 / 2-way valve 34 is designed to connect the branch line 14 to the compressed air connection 1, so that the compressed air 110 provided at the compressed air connection 1 can be guided through the branch line and, for regeneration of the air dryer 5, can be guided against the filling direction B through the pneumatic main line 12.In the basic operating mode (not shown), the 3 / 2-way valve 34 is designed to connect the pneumatic main line 12 to the compressed air connection 1, so that the compressed air 110 provided at the compressed air connection 1 can be guided through the pneumatic main line 12 via the air dryer 5 to the compressed air supply connection 2 and provided there as dried compressed air.

[0119] FIG. 8 shows a seventh embodiment of the compressed air supply system 100. Identical or similar components have identical reference numerals, and to avoid repetition, reference is made to the description of the first to third embodiments of the compressed air supply system, and only differences from the previous embodiments are discussed.

[0120] The compressed air supply system 100 according to the seventh embodiment differs from the embodiment shown above in FIG. 2b in that a main line throttle 7 is arranged in the pneumatic main line 12, which is configured to increase the flow resistance of the pneumatic main line 12 to a higher value than the flow resistance of the branch line 14. Thus, in the first operating mode, the compressed air 110 from the compressed air connection 1 flows preferentially through the branch line 14 due to the lower flow resistance, and consequently, predominantly compressed air 141 passes through the branch line 14 and is guided against the filling direction B through the pneumatic main line 12 for regeneration of the air dryer 5.

[0121] Preferably, a main line check valve 7A is arranged upstream of the main line throttle 7 in the filling direction B. The main line check valve 7A, arranged upstream of the main line throttle 7 in the filling direction B, is preferably designed to open at an opening pressure in the filling direction B upstream of the main line throttle 7 that is higher than a pressure difference upstream and downstream of the main line throttle 7. It should be understood that the main line check valve 7A can also be used without the main line throttle 7 and, in this case, is arranged downstream of the branching branch line 14 in the pneumatic main line 12.

[0122] FIG. 9 shows a vehicle 1000, in particular a passenger car 1100. The passenger car 1100 comprises a compressed air supply system 1200 as well as an electronic control unit 1300 (ECU) and a compressed air collector 300, which in this case is a sensor cleaning device 301.

[0123] The compressed air supply system 1200 comprises a compressed air supply system 100 and a compressed air generator 200 connected to the compressed air supply system 100 via a compressed air connection 1. The compressed air generator 200 here comprises a compressor 202 with an electric motor 203.

[0124] The compressed air supply system 100 is shown here in a sixth embodiment. Identical or similar components again have identical reference numerals as in the previous embodiments, and to avoid repetition, only differences, particularly from the first embodiment (see FIGS. 2a and 2b), will be discussed.

[0125] In this case, the water separator 6 further comprises, in addition to the condensation dryer 16 and the drain valve 26, a ventilation unit 36. The ventilation unit 36 ​​is arranged between the compressed air connection 1 and the condensation dryer 16 and increases the degree of cooling of the compressed air in the condensation dryer 16. The water separator 6 with the condensation dryer 16, the drain element 26, in particular the drain valve 26, and the ventilation unit 36 ​​is preferably arranged in a front part 1400 of the vehicle 1000 in the direction of travel F. Thus, the airstream occurring during operation can also be used to cool the compressed air compressed by the compressor 202.

[0126] Furthermore, the compressed air supply system 100 according to the sixth embodiment shown comprises a pressure sensor 9, which is arranged in the pneumatic main line 12 between the water separator 6 and the air dryer 5. The pressure sensor 9 is configured to detect a pressure P in the pneumatic main line 12, i.e., the inlet pressure of the moist compressed air 110 or the compressed air 120 partially dehumidified by the water separator provided at the compressed air connection 1. The pressure sensor 9 is connected in a signal-conducting manner via a first signal line S1 to the control device 1300, which is thus configured to monitor the pressure P.

[0127] The control device 1300 is further connected to the branch line switching valve 24 via a second signal line S2 and to the vent valve 23.1 via a third signal line S3.

[0128] The control device 1300 is configured to control the branch line switching valve 24 for selectively releasing the branch line 14 or the vent valve 23.1 for selectively releasing the vent line 13. Furthermore, the control device 1300 is connected to the pneumatic arrangement 20 via a fourth signal line S4, as described with reference to the fourth and fifth embodiments. The control device 1300 is configured to control the first portion of the compressed air 140.1 (see FIG. 6c) and the second portion of the compressed air 140.2 (see FIG. 6c) by controlling the pneumatic arrangement 20.

[0129] The control device 1300 is configured to control the compressed air transmitter 200 depending on the detected sensor signal of the pressure sensor 9. Furthermore, the control device 1300 can control the main line switching valve 25 and the vent valve 23.1 to release compressed air in the pneumatic main line—at least in the filling direction B upstream of the throttle 8. The signal lines S1, S2, S3, S4 can be either wired or wireless.

[0130] The compressed air supply system 100 has the pressure control module 101 shown in FIG. 1. The pneumatic branch line switching valve 24, the vent valve 23.1, and the pressure sensor 9 are assigned to the pressure control module 101.

[0131] FIG. 10 shows a second embodiment of the vehicle 1000. To avoid repetition, reference is made to the description of the vehicle 1000 according to the first embodiment in FIG. 9, and only differences are discussed. Identical or similar components have identical reference numerals.

[0132] The second embodiment of the vehicle 1000 shown in FIG. 10 differs from the first embodiment in that, in addition to the compressed air generator 200, which comprises a first compressor 201.1 with a first electric motor 203.1, an additional compressed air source 50 is also provided. The compressed air source 50 comprises a second compressor 201.2 with a second electric motor 203.2.

[0133] The control device 1300 is preferably configured to selectively connect the compressed air source 50 to the main pneumatic line in addition to operating the compressed air supply 200. Both the compressed air supply 200 and the compressed air source 50 are connected to the compressed air connection 1 for supplying the compressed air supply system 100 with compressed air 110.

[0134] FIG. 11 shows a third embodiment of the vehicle 1000. To avoid repetition, reference is made to the description of the vehicle 1000 according to the first embodiment in FIG. 9, and only differences are discussed. Identical or similar components have identical reference numerals.

[0135] The third embodiment of the vehicle 1000 shown in FIG. 11 differs from the first embodiment in that the throttle 8 is now arranged in the branch line 14 upstream of the branch line switching valve 24 instead of in the pneumatic main line 12. The throttle 8 expands the compressed air 141 conducted through the branch line 14 at the beginning of the branch line 14, whereby the expanded compressed air 141' has a reduced relative humidity. Thus, the branch line 14 and the branch line switching valve 24 arranged therein are protected from frost-related malfunctions. At the same time, the throttle 8 achieves the expansion necessary for the regeneration of the air dryer 5 when the compressed air 141 is returned through the pneumatic main line 12 against the filling direction B.

[0136] Furthermore, a main line switching valve 25 is arranged in the pneumatic main line 12, as described with reference to FIG. 3a to FIG. 3c.

[0137] The vent valve arrangement 23 has a control valve 23.5 in the form of a 2 / 2-way solenoid directional control valve 31 (see FIG. 12). Furthermore, the vent valve 23.1 is designed as a pneumatically actuated vent valve 23.1. The control valve 23.5 can be controlled via electrical control signals in the form of a voltage and / or current signal. When controlled, the control valve 23.5 can be moved from a normally closed position to a pneumatically open position (not shown), in which a pressure derived from the pneumatic main line 12 via a pneumatic control line 23.5A is passed on to the pneumatic control of the controllable vent valve 23.1 by means of a bypass 23.5B.

[0138] When closed, the control valve 23.5 separates the control line 23.5A and is pneumatically connected to the vent port 3 via another pneumatic line 23.5C.

[0139] The vent line 13.1 is a first vent line 13.1 in this case, and the compressed air supply system 100 further comprises a compressor vent line 13.3. The compressor vent line 13.3 branches off from the pneumatic main line 12 upstream of the main line switching valve 25 in the filling direction B. The vent valve arrangement 23 has a compressor vent valve 23.4 in the compressor vent line 13.3. The line volume between the compressed air source 200, preferably a compressor 202 in this case, and the branch line switching valve 24 and the main line switching valve 25 can be vented through the compressor vent line 13.3. The starting resistance for the compressor 202 is thus reduced. The vent valve 23.1, the compressor vent valve 23.4 as well as the branch line switching valve 24 and the main line switching valve 25 are in the form of solenoid directional control valves 31 (see FIG.12), in particular normally closed solenoid directional control valves.

[0140] Preferably, the compressed air supply system 1200 in the embodiments according to FIGS. 9, 8 and 9 further comprises a temperature sensor 60 for monitoring the temperature of the compressed air generator 200, wherein the temperature sensor 60 is connected to the control device 1300 in a signal-conducting manner and is designed to provide sensor signals S.

[0141] The compressed air receiver 300, which in this case is a sensor cleaning device 301, further comprises a first nozzle valve 302 and a second nozzle valve 303. The nozzle valves 302, 303 are also designed as solenoid directional control valves 31 (see FIG. 12), in particular as normally closed solenoid directional control valves.

[0142] Such a solenoid directional control valve 31 is shown as an example in FIG. 12 using a possible embodiment of a nozzle valve 302. The nozzle valve 302 is a normally closed 2 / 2-way valve 304. The nozzle valve 302 comprises a magnetic part 305 and a pneumatic part 306. The magnetic part 305 has an electrical coil 307, an armature 308.1 that can be actuated magnetically and under the influence of a spring force, and a fixed, magnetizable core 308.2. An air gap 309 is formed between the armature 308.1 and the core 308.2, which defines the possible stroke of the armature 308.1.

[0143] The pneumatic part 306 comprises a first compressed air passage 310, a second compressed air passage 311. The pneumatic part 306 further comprises a valve stem part

[0144] 312, which has an abutment surface 313 pointing in the direction of the armature 308.1.

[0145] The nozzle valve 302 further comprises a valve spring 314, which is designed to exert a spring force FF in the direction of the valve stem part 312, in particular the abutment surface

[0146] 313, to be applied to the armature 308.1. In the open state of the nozzle valve 302, the armature 308.1 is spaced from a valve seat 315 of the pneumatic part 306. The armature 308.1 is movably received in the magnetic part 305 and the pneumatic part 306. By energizing the electrical coil 307, the latter generates a magnetic field with a magnetic force FM. The resulting magnetic field creates a magnetic pole on the core 308.2, which attracts the armature 308.1 and moves it away from the valve seat 315 against the spring force FF of the valve spring 314, so that the first compressed air passage 310 and the second compressed air passage 311 are fluidly connected. The magnitude of the magnetic force FM depends on the applied control current Si, which is provided by the control device 1300. The opening control current Sn required to open the nozzle valve 302 is greater than the holding control current S12 required to hold the nozzle valve 302 in the open position.The magnitude of the force exerted by a magnetic field induced by coil 307 on armature 308.1 at a constant current depends on the distance of armature 308.1 relative to the magnetic field, i.e., the size of the air gap 309 between armature 308.1 and core 308.2. At a greater distance, a weaker magnetic field acts. In the closed position, armature 308.1 is initially at a greater distance from the magnetic field, so that an increased current, namely an opening control current S11, is provided. The opening control current S11 required to open nozzle valve 302 refers to the current required to reduce the distance between armature 308.1 and core 308.2 and thus the air gap 309. As soon as the armature 308.1 moves into an open position, its distance to the magnetic field is reduced and a lower holding control current S12 is sufficient to hold the armature 308.1 in this position.Preferably, the control device 1300 is further configured to apply a heating control current S13 to the nozzle valve 302, which is smaller than the opening control current S11, in particular also smaller than the holding control current S12, such that the nozzle valve 302 is heated by the generated magnetic field in the closed state.

[0147] The control device 1300 shown in FIG. 9 to FIG. 11 is designed to provide a control current Si equal to the opening control current S11 (see FIG. 12) for opening the compressor vent valve 23.4 as well as the branch line switching valve 24, the main line switching valve 25, and the nozzle valves 302, 303. The control device 1300 is also designed to provide a control current Si equal to the holding control current S12 (see FIG. 12) for maintaining the opening. Furthermore, the control device 1300 is also designed to apply a heating control current S13 to one, several, or all of these valves. The heating control current S13 is preferably 70% to 80% of the holding control current S12. Furthermore, the holding control current S12 is smaller than the opening control current S11.

[0148] FIGS. 13a to 13d show a section of the compressed air supply system 1200 according to FIG. 9, FIG. 10, or FIG. 11, with various embodiments of the pneumatic arrangement 20 shown in detail. To avoid repetition and to explain the operation of the pneumatic arrangement 20, reference is therefore made to the description of FIGS. 9, 10, and 11.

[0149] The pneumatic arrangement 20 according to FIG. 13a comprises a throttle valve 21 designed to throttle compressed air supplied to the compressed air supply connection 2 in the filling direction B. The throttle valve 21 has a variable flow cross-section Q and is connected for control purposes, i.e., for signal transmission, to the control device 1300. The throttle valve 21 is designed to throttle the pressure in the pneumatic main line 12 downstream of the throttle valve 21 to a supply pressure to be provided, in particular 5 bar, by changing the flow cross-section Q. Upstream of the throttle valve 21, a pressure is established according to the volume flow conditions.The throttle valve 21 has a throttle point 21 A with a variable flow cross-section Q, wherein the throttle valve 21 has a control pressure line 21 B for carrying a control pressure Ps and is designed to regulate the flow cross-section Q depending on the control pressure Ps.

[0150] The pneumatic arrangement 20 according to FIG. 13b comprises a controllable throttle valve 21, analogous to the embodiment shown in FIG. 13a. Furthermore, the compressed air supply system 1200 comprises an additional compressed air source 50 in addition to the compressed air generator 200, which is designed as a compressor 202 in FIG. 9. The compressed air source 50 comprises a reservoir 51 for storing compressed air, wherein the reservoir 51 is connected to the pneumatic main line 12 upstream of the throttle 21 via a reservoir switching valve 52. The compressed air source 50 is designed to be connected to the pneumatic main line 12 as needed by controlling the reservoir switching valve 52. The control device 1300 (cf. FIG. 9, 8 or 9) is connected to a reservoir pressure sensor 53 in a signal-conducting manner and is designed to control the reservoir switching valve 52.By controlling the reservoir switching valve 52, a defined amount of compressed air can be fed into the pneumatic main line 12, wherein the control device 1300 regulates the amount of compressed air via the signals of the reservoir pressure sensor 53 and preferably the reservoir switching valve 52.

[0151] The pneumatic arrangement 20 according to FIG. 13c comprises a pair of counter-opening and fluidically parallel-connected check valves 27, 28, which are arranged between the air dryer 5 and the compressed air supply connection 2.

[0152] The pair of check valves 27, 28 comprises a first check valve 27 opening in the filling direction B, which is arranged in the pneumatic main line 12, and a second check valve 28 opening in the return direction R. The second check valve 28 is arranged in a bypass line 15, which forms a bypass around the first check valve 27. The pneumatic arrangement 20 further comprises a return throttle valve 29 arranged downstream of the second check valve 28 in the return direction R.

[0153] The pneumatic arrangement 20 according to FIG. 13d is designed for use with compressed air supply systems as shown in FIGS. 5a-5b or 6a-6d, i.e., for compressed air supply systems with two air dryers 5.1, 5.2. A first pair of counter-opening and fluidically parallel-connected check valves 27.1, 28.1 with a corresponding return throttle valve 29.1, as described with reference to the embodiment according to FIG. 13c, is assigned to the first air dryer 5.1 and arranged between the first air dryer 5.1 and the compressed air connection 2.

[0154] A second pair of counter-opening and fluidically parallel check valves 27.2, 28.2 with a corresponding second return throttle valve 29.2, as described with reference to the exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 13c, is assigned to the second air dryer 5.2 and arranged between the second air dryer 5.2 and the compressed air connection 2. FIG. 14 shows a method 2000 for operating a compressed air supply system 1200 (cf. FIGS. 9, 8 and 9), wherein the method 2000 comprises, in a first step, the provision 2100 of compressed air 110 at a compressed air connection 1. The compressed air connection 1 is connected to a compressed air supply connection 2 via a pneumatic main line 12. In a second step 2200, the method comprises separating water from the compressed air 110 provided at the compressed air connection 1 (see FIG. 2a to FIG. 13) to provide dehumidified compressed air 120.In a basic operating mode N, the method 2000 preferably comprises, in a third step 2300, blocking a branch line 14, 14.1 (cf. FIG. 2a to FIG. 11) and, further, in a fourth step 2400, drying the dehumidified compressed air 120 guided in a filling direction B to the compressed air supply connection 2 with an air dryer 5 arranged in the pneumatic main line 12. Furthermore, the method 2000 in the basic operating mode N comprises providing the dried compressed air 120' at the compressed air supply connection 2 in step 2500.

[0155] Furthermore, in a first operating mode, following the second step 2200, the method comprises, in a sixth step 2600, opening a branch line 14 through which pneumatic flow can pass in the direction of the compressed air supply connection 2 by means of a pneumatic branch line switching valve 24, and further, in a seventh step 2700, returning dehumidified compressed air from the branch line 14 through the pneumatic main line 12 counter to the filling direction B. The seventh step 2700 preferably further comprises, as sub-step 2710, releasing compressed air returned counter to the filling direction B in the pneumatic main line 12.

[0156] In the second operating mode B2, the method 2000 further comprises, following the sixth step 2600, in an eighth step 2800, distributing compressed air 140 from the branch line 14, 14.1, 14.2 such that a first portion 140.1 of the compressed air is returned to the pneumatic main line 12 opposite to the filling direction B, and furthermore, a second portion 140.2 of the compressed air is provided at the compressed air supply connection 2. This preferably comprises receiving control signals and controlling the first portion and the second portion depending on the received control signals by a pneumatic arrangement. In the third operating mode B3, the method 2000 comprises, compared to the operation in the basic operating mode N, following the second step 2200, a return of compressed air into the branch line 14, 14.2 in a return direction R in step 2900 and a release of returned compressed air in the branch line through a second throttle 8.2 in step 2910.

[0157] In the context of the invention, it should be understood that the first operating mode B1 relates to a first regeneration mode for regenerating the (first) air dryer. The second operating mode B2 relates to a distribution mode in which a portion of the compressed air is used to regenerate the first air dryer and the remaining portion of the compressed air partially dehumidified by the water separator 6 or a second air dryer 5.2 is conveyed to the compressed air supply connection 2. The third operating mode B3 relates to a second regeneration mode for regenerating the second air dryer. The idle mode I relates to an operating mode in which the air dryer 5, 5.1, 5.2 is pneumatically decoupled. In the basic operating mode N, dried compressed air is conveyed to the compressed air supply connection 2 by the (first) air dryer 5, 5.1.

[0158] Reference symbol (part of the description)

[0159] 1 compressed air connection

[0160] 2 compressed air supply connection

[0161] 3 vent connection

[0162] 5 air dryers

[0163] 5.1 first air dryer

[0164] 5.2 second air dryer

[0165] 6 water separators

[0166] 7 Main line throttle

[0167] 7A Main line check valve

[0168] 8 Throttle

[0169] 8.1 first throttle

[0170] 8.2 second throttle

[0171] 9 Pressure sensor

[0172] 12 pneumatic main line

[0173] 13 Ventilation line

[0174] 13.1 first vent line

[0175] 13.2 second vent line

[0176] 13.3 Compressor vent line

[0177] 14 Branch Management

[0178] 14.1 first branch line

[0179] 14.2 second branch line

[0180] 15 Bypass line

[0181] 16 condensation dryers

[0182] 20 Pneumatic arrangement

[0183] 21 Throttle valve in pneumatic main line

[0184] 21A throttle point

[0185] 21 B Control pressure line

[0186] 23 Vent valve arrangement

[0187] 23.1 first vent valve

[0188] 23.2 Vent check valve

[0189] 23.3 second vent valve

[0190] 23.4 Compressor vent valve .5 Control valve .5A Control line .5B Bypass .5C Line

[0191] Branch line switching valve .1 first branch line switching valve in branch line .2 second branch line switching valve in branch line pneumatic main line switching valve

[0192] Drainage device, 27.1, 27.2 first check valve, 28.1, 28.2 second check valve, 29.1, 29.2 return throttle valve

[0193] Solenoid directional valve

[0194] 3 / 2-way valve

[0195] ventilation unit

[0196] Compressed air source

[0197] reservoir

[0198] Reservoir switching valve

[0199] Reservoir pressure sensor

[0200] Temperature sensor 0 Compressed air supply system 1 Pressure control module 0 Compressed air at the compressed air connection 0 Partially dehumidified compressed air in the pneumatic main line 0' Dried compressed air in the pneumatic main line 1 Moist compressed air in the (first) vent line 2 Moist compressed air in the second vent line 0 Recirculated compressed air flow from the first and second branch line 0' Relaxed compressed air flow from the first and second branch line 0.1 First portion of compressed air, recirculated compressed air in the pneumatic.

[0201] Main line 0.2 second part compressed air 1 compressed air in / from first branch line 1 ' relaxed compressed air in / from first branch line 142 compressed air in second branch line

[0202] 142' dried compressed air in / out of second branch line

[0203] 150 recirculated compressed air flow from the first branch line and the pneumatic main line

[0204] 150' relaxed compressed air flow from first branch line and pneumatic main line

[0205] 200 compressed air sensors

[0206] 201 compressors

[0207] 201.1 first compressor

[0208] 201.2 second compressor

[0209] 202 Compressor

[0210] 203 electric motor

[0211] 203.1 first electric motor

[0212] 203.2 second electric motor

[0213] 300 compressed air consumers

[0214] 301 Sensor cleaning device

[0215] 302 first nozzle valve

[0216] 303 second nozzle valves

[0217] 304 2 / 2-way valve

[0218] 305 magnetic part

[0219] 306 Pneumatic part

[0220] 307 coil

[0221] 308 anchors

[0222] 309 Air gap

[0223] 310 first compressed air passage

[0224] 311 second compressed air passage

[0225] 312 valve stem part

[0226] 313 impact surface

[0227] 314 valve spring

[0228] 315 valve seat

[0229] 1000 vehicles

[0230] 1100 passenger cars

[0231] 1200 compressed air supply system

[0232] 1300 Control device 1400 front area of ​​the vehicle

[0233] 2000 procedures

[0234] 2100 Provision of compressed air

[0235] 2200 Separation of water

[0236] 2300 Blocking the branch line

[0237] 2400 Drying of compressed air into the pneumatic main line

[0238] 2500 Provision of dry compressed air at the compressed air supply connection

[0239] 2600 Opening a branch line

[0240] 2700 Return of dehumidified compressed air to the pneumatic main line

[0241] 2710 Relaxation of recirculated compressed air in the pneumatic

[0242] Main line

[0243] 2800 Distribution of compressed air

[0244] 2900 Return of compressed air to the branch line

[0245] 2910 Relieving recirculated compressed air in the branch line

[0246] S1 first signal line

[0247] S2 second signal line

[0248] S3 third signal line

[0249] S4 fourth signal line

[0250] S sensor signals

[0251] F Direction of travel

[0252] B Filling direction

[0253] R Return direction

[0254] E Ventilation direction

[0255] B1 first operating mode

[0256] B2 second operating mode

[0257] B3 third operating mode

[0258] I Sleep mode

[0259] N Basic operating mode

[0260] K Condensate

[0261] P Pressure in pneumatic main line

[0262] G Saturation level

[0263] FF spring force FM magnetic force

[0264] Si control current

[0265] Sn opening control current

[0266] S12 Holding control current

[0267] S13 Heating control current

[0268] Ps control pressure

[0269] Q flow cross-section

[0270] A junction point

[0271] Sw flow resistance

Claims

Patent claims 1. Compressed air supply system (100) for a sensor cleaning device (301) of a vehicle (1000), in particular a passenger car (1100), with a compressed air connection (1) for connection to a compressed air transmitter (200), a compressed air supply connection (2) for connecting a compressed air consumer (300), in particular a sensor cleaning device (301), a pneumatic main line (12) for guiding compressed air (110, 120, 120') from the compressed air connection (1) to the compressed air supply connection (2) in a filling direction (B), and an air dryer (5, 5.1) arranged in the pneumatic main line (12) for drying the compressed air (120) guided in the filling direction (B), a throttle (8, 8.1, 8.2) assigned to the air dryer (5, 5.1), characterized by a pneumatic main line (12) between compressed air connection (1 ) and air dryer (5, 5.1) arranged water separator (6) and a branch line (14, 14.1, 14.2) leading from the pneumatic main line (12) between the water separator (6) and the air dryer (5, 5.1) and connecting again between the air dryer (5, 5.1, 5.2) and the compressed air supply connection (2), which branch line has a pneumatic branch line switching valve (24, 24.1, 24.2) which is designed in a first operating mode (B1) to open the branch line (14, 14.1, 14.2) in the direction of the compressed air supply connection (2) in a pneumatically flowable manner, and wherein the compressed air supply system (100) is designed in the first operating mode (B1) to return compressed air (141) from the branch line (14, 14.1, 14.2) through the throttle (8, 8.1, 8.2) against the filling direction (B).

2. Compressed air supply system (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that the pneumatic branch line switching valve (24) is designed to block the branch line (14, 14.1, 14.2) in a basic operating mode (N).

3. Compressed air supply system (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the water separator (6) has a condensation dryer (16) and a drain member (26) for draining condensate (K).

4. Compressed air supply system (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by an external ventilation device (36) assigned to the pneumatic main line (12) and arranged upstream of the water separator (6), in particular of the discharge device (26), in the filling direction (B).

5. Compressed air supply system (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the air dryer (5.1) is a first air dryer (5.1) and the compressed air supply system (100) further comprises a second air dryer (5.2) arranged in the branch line (14, 14.2).

6. Compressed air supply system (100) according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the branch line (14.1) is a first branch line (14.1) and the air dryer (5.1) is a first air dryer (5.1) and the compressed air supply system (100) further comprises a second branch line (14.2) branching off from the pneumatic main line (12) between the water separator (6) and the first air dryer (5.1) and connecting again between the first air dryer (5.1) and the compressed air supply connection (2), and a second air dryer (5.2) arranged in the second branch line (14.2).

7. Compressed air supply system (100) according to claim 6, characterized in that the pneumatic branch line switching valve (24.1) is a first pneumatic branch line switching valve (24.1) and the second branch line (14.2) has a second pneumatic branch line switching valve (24.2) which is designed to open the second branch line (14.2) in the direction of the compressed air supply connection (2) in the first operating mode (B1) so that air can flow through it pneumatically.

8. Compressed air supply system (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a pneumatic main line switching valve (25) arranged in the pneumatic main line (12) in the filling direction (B) upstream of the air dryer (5, 5.1), which is designed to block the pneumatic main line (12) in the filling direction (B) in the first operating mode (B1), and / or by a main line throttle (7) arranged in the pneumatic main line (12), which is designed to increase a flow resistance (Sw) of the pneumatic main line (12) compared to the branch line (14, 14.1, 14.2), and / or, characterized in that the branch line switching valve (24, 24.1, 24.2) is arranged at a branch point (A) at which the branch line (14, 14.1, 14.2) branches off from the pneumatic main line (12), and is designed as a 3 / 2-way valve (34).

9. Compressed air supply system (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a pneumatic arrangement (20) assigned to the compressed air supply connection (2), which is designed to allow a return of compressed air (141, 141', 142') from the branch line (14, 14.1, 14.2), in particular the first branch line (14.1) and / or the second branch line (14.2), into the pneumatic main line (12) opposite to the filling direction (B) in the first operating mode (B1).

10. Compressed air supply system (100) according to claim 9, characterized in that the pneumatic arrangement (20) is designed in a second operating mode (B2) to distribute the compressed air (141, 140) from the branch line (14), in particular the first branch line (14.1) and / or the second branch line (14.2), in such a way that a first portion of the compressed air (140.1) is returned to the pneumatic main line (12) counter to the filling direction (B) and, furthermore, a second portion of the compressed air (140.2) is provided at the compressed air supply connection (2), wherein the pneumatic arrangement (20) is preferably connectable to an electronic control device (1300) for control purposes for adjusting the first portion (140.1) and the second portion (140.2).

11. Compressed air supply system (100) according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that the pneumatic arrangement (20) is designed in a third operating mode (B3) to allow a return of compressed air (141) from the first branch line (14.1) and / or of compressed air (120') from the pneumatic main line (12) into the second branch line (14.2) opposite to the filling direction (B).

12. Compressed air supply system (100) according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the throttle (8, 8.1, 8.2) is arranged in the branch line (14, 14.1, 14.2) upstream of the branch line switching valve (24, 24.1, 24.2).

13. Compressed air supply system (100) according to one of claims 9 to 12, characterized in that the pneumatic arrangement (20) comprises a controllable throttle valve (21) which is designed to throttle compressed air (120', 141) guided to the compressed air supply connection (2) in the filling direction (B), wherein the throttle valve (21) has a throttle point (21A) with a variable flow cross-section (Q), wherein the throttle valve (21) has a control pressure line (21B) for carrying a control pressure (Ps) and is designed to regulate the flow cross-section (Q) depending on the control pressure (Ps).

14. Compressed air supply system (1200) for a sensor cleaning device (301) of a vehicle (1000), in particular a passenger car (1100), with a compressed air generator (200), in particular a compressor (201), for providing compressed air (110) at a compressed air connection (1), a compressed air supply system (100) connected to the compressed air generator (200) via the compressed air connection (1) for providing compressed air (120', 140, 140.2) for a sensor cleaning device (301), characterized in that the compressed air supply system (100) is designed according to one of claims 1 to 13.

15. Compressed air supply system (1200) according to claim 14, characterized by a pressure sensor (9) arranged between the water separator (6) and the air dryer (5), in particular the main line switching valve (25), which is designed to detect a pressure (P) in the pneumatic main line (12).

16. Compressed air supply system (1200) according to claim 14 or 15, characterized by a compressed air source (50), wherein the control device (1300) is designed to connect the compressed air source (50) to the pneumatic main line (12) as required.

17. Vehicle (1000), in particular passenger cars (1100), with a compressed air consumer (300), in particular a sensor cleaning device (301) connected to a compressed air supply connection (2), a compressed air supply system (1200) for providing compressed air (120', 140, 140.2) at the compressed air supply connection (2), and an electronic control device (1300) for controlling the compressed air supply system (1200), characterized in that the compressed air supply system (1200) is designed according to one of claims 15 or 16, and wherein the electronic control device (1300) is connected for control purposes at least to the pneumatic branch line switching valve (24), in particular to the first pneumatic branch line switching valve (24.1) and the second pneumatic branch line switching valve (24.2), and preferably to the pneumatic arrangement (20).

18. Vehicle (1000) according to claim 17, characterized in that the control device (1300) is designed to connect the compressed air source (50) to the pneumatic main line (12) depending on at least one of the following: the supply requirement (Bv) of the compressed air consumer (300), sensor signals (S), in particular at least one temperature sensor (60) which is designed to monitor a temperature of the compressed air generator (200) and to provide the sensor signals (S), depending on the degree of saturation (G) of the air dryer (5, 5.1, 5.2), wherein the control device (1300) is designed to monitor the degree of saturation (G).

19. Method (2000) for operating a compressed air supply system (1200), in particular a compressed air supply system (1200) according to one of claims 15 or 16, comprising the steps: a) providing (2100) compressed air (110) at a compressed air connection (1) which is connected to a compressed air supply connection (2) via a pneumatic main line (12), b) separating (2200) condensate (K) from the moist compressed air (110) provided at the compressed air connection (1) to provide dehumidified compressed air (120), c) drying (2400) the dehumidified compressed air (120) guided in a filling direction (B) to the compressed air supply connection (2) with an air dryer (5, 5.1, 5.2) arranged in the pneumatic main line (12) in a basic operating mode (N), d) providing (2500) compressed air (120') from the pneumatic main line (12) at the compressed air supply connection (2) in the basic operating mode (N), e) opening (2600) a branch line (14, 14.1, 14.2) through which pneumatic flow can take place in the direction of the compressed air supply connection (2) by means of a pneumatic branch line switching valve (24, 24.1, 24.2) in a first operating mode (B1) and preferably a second operating mode (B2), e) returning (2700) dehumidified compressed air (141, 140, 150) from the branch line (14, 14.1, 14.2) through the pneumatic main line (12) opposite to the filling direction (B) in the first operating mode (B1).

20. The method according to claim 19, further comprising at least one of the following steps: f) blocking (2300) the branch line (14, 14.1, 14.2) by the pneumatic branch line switching valve (24) in the basic operating mode (N), g) distributing (2800) the compressed air (141, 140) flowing through the branch line (14, 14.1, 14.2) in the second operating mode (B2) such that a first portion of the compressed air (140.1) is returned to the pneumatic main line (12) opposite to the filling direction (B) and furthermore a second portion of the compressed air (140.2) is provided at the compressed air supply connection (2), h) returning (2900) compressed air (141) from the branch line (14, 14.1) and / or the pneumatic main line (12) against the filling direction (B) to a second air dryer (5.2) in a third operating mode (B3), i) relaxing (2710) compressed air (141, 140) returned against the filling direction (B) in step e).1) in the pneumatic main line (12), j) releasing (2910) compressed air (150) returned to the second air dryer (5.2) in step h) in the opposite direction to the filling direction (B).

Images