Compressed air supply system, pneumatic system, vehicle and operating method

Abstract

The invention relates to a compressed air supply system (100), comprising: - a compressor (101) having at least one first and second compressor stage (110, 120) for compressing compressed air (D) at two different pressure levels (D1, D2), - a compressed air supply system (201, 201, 202, 203, 204, 205, 206) having a main compressed air connection (1.1) connected to the compressor (101), a pneumatic main line (210) having an air dryer (220) for drying and conducting compressed air (D) from the main compressed air connection to a main compressed air supply connection (2.1), a supply line (251) for conducting compressed air (D) to an ancillary compressed air supply connection (2.2) having a switchable pneumatic element (150) for releasing and blocking the supply line (251). According to the invention, the main compressed air connection is connected to the second compressor stage (120) and the compressed air supply system (201, 202, 203, 204, 205, 206) has an ancillary compressed air connection (1.2) connected to the first compressor stage (110), wherein the supply line (251) conducts compressed air (D) from the ancillary compressed air connection (1.2) to the ancillary compressed air supply connection (2.2). The invention also relates to a pneumatic system, a vehicle and an operating method.

Description

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

[0002] The invention relates to a compressed air supply system for a pneumatic system of a vehicle, in particular a commercial vehicle, which comprises a compressor, with a first compressor stage for compressing compressed air to a first pressure level and a second compressor stage for compressing the compressed air to a second pressure level, wherein the second pressure level is higher than the first pressure level.Furthermore, the compressed air supply system comprises a compressed air supply unit with a main compressed air connection for connection to the compressor, a main compressed air supply connection and a secondary compressed air supply connection for providing compressed air, a main pneumatic line for conveying compressed air from the main compressed air connection to the main compressed air supply connection, an air dryer arranged in the main pneumatic line for drying the compressed air conveyed to the main compressed air supply connection, a supply line for conveying compressed air to the secondary compressed air supply connection, and a pneumatic switching element arranged in the supply line for selectively enabling and disabling the supply line. The main compressed air supply connection is configured for connecting a primary consumer, and the secondary compressed air supply connection is configured for connecting a secondary consumer.

[0003] The invention further relates to a pneumatic system with such a compressed air supply system, a vehicle with a corresponding pneumatic system, and a method for providing a compressed air supply for a vehicle, in particular a commercial vehicle.

[0004] In vehicles, compressed air supply systems serve to supply compressed air consumers with compressed air. For this purpose, compressed air is supplied to the compressed air supply system via the main compressed air connection by a compressor. In this description, compressor and compressor are used synonymously and refer to units that compress air. Such a compressor, together with the compressed air supply system, forms a compressed air supply system. The control of such a compressed air supply system is preferably carried out by an electronic control unit (ECU).

[0005] A compressed air supply system is used in all types of vehicles to supply compressed air to a consumer. The compressed air supply system, together with one or more consumers, forms a pneumatic system.

[0006] Such consumers include, for example, air suspension systems, brake systems, sensor cleaning devices, signal horns or tire inflation systems.

[0007] Air suspension systems can also include leveling devices that adjust the distance between the vehicle axle and the vehicle body. An air suspension system of the aforementioned pneumatic system comprises a number of air springs pneumatically connected to a common line (gallery). As the air pressure increases, these air springs raise the vehicle body, and as the air pressure decreases, they lower it. Lowering the vehicle body requires venting the system, whereby compressed air from the system, and in particular from the air springs, is released to the environment via a vent path in the compressed air supply system.Similarly, in a braking system, braking force is applied by supplying compressed air via the compressed air supply system. To release the brakes of such a system, the consumer must vent the consumer, releasing the compressed air to the environment via a vent line in the compressed air supply system. Air spring systems and braking systems, together with their respective compressed air supply systems, therefore form a closed compressed air system. The compressed air, conveyed in a specific direction within the compressed air supply system and supplied to the consumer, is then returned to the compressed air supply system. The "filling direction" describes the flow direction from each compressed air connection to the respective compressed air supply connection.

[0008] Furthermore, there are consumers, such as sensor cleaning devices, that form an open compressed air supply system with the corresponding compressed air supply systems. Compressed air is supplied to the consumer from the compressed air supply system, and the used compressed air is then released from the consumer into the environment. A sensor cleaning device can be used to clean surfaces on a vehicle, particularly sensor surfaces, using at least one cleaning fluid, such as compressed air. Regular cleaning of sensor surfaces on the vehicle can reduce sensor contamination and thus improve sensor reliability.

[0009] To ensure the long-term operation of the compressed air supply system, a pneumatic main line of the system includes an air dryer to dry the compressed air. This provides the consumer with dry compressed air at the point of use and prevents moisture accumulation in the consumer's system. Moisture can lead to valve-damaging crystal formation and other undesirable defects, especially at relatively low temperatures. An air dryer contains a desiccant, typically desiccant granules, through which the compressed air flows, allowing the granules to adsorb any moisture present in the compressed air. An air dryer can also be designed as a regenerative air dryer.This can be achieved by passing compressed air from a reservoir or the air springs through the drying granules - usually in counterflow, but sometimes also in coflow relative to the filling direction.

[0010] If the consumer and the compressed air supply system form a closed compressed air supply, the compressed air returned from the consumer is usually used for regeneration.

[0011] A challenge with compressed air supply systems for sensor cleaning devices is that the compressed air supplied at the compressed air connection cannot be returned to the compressed air supply system, but is instead expelled to clean the sensors. Thus, unlike known compressed air supply systems, such as those shown in DE102017010772 A1, no compressed air already dried by the air dryer remains in the compressed air supply system or at the compressed air consumer. For this reason, consumers with open compressed air supplies, such as sensor cleaning devices or signal horns, are often supplied by compressed air supply systems without an air dryer.

[0012] In compressed air supply systems that serve both open and closed-loop consumers, a challenge arises: when supplying consumers with open-loop systems, the saturation of the air dryer is accelerated significantly without any compressed air being returned for its regeneration. Consequently, the operating time of compressed air supply systems serving two or more consumers with both open and closed-loop systems is considerably reduced.

[0013] For example, WO0176898A1 shows a single-stage compressor with an attached air suspension system and a connected tire inflation system. When the tire inflation system is supplied with moist compressed air from the compressor, moist compressed air is also pumped to the air dryer, thus accelerating the saturation of the air dryer.

[0014] This is where the invention comes in, the object of which is to provide a compressed air supply system that overcomes at least one of the disadvantages known from the prior art. In particular, the object of the present invention is to increase the operating time of compressed air supply systems for supplying two or more consumers that do not exclusively return compressed air to the compressed air supply system.

[0015] The problem is solved in a first aspect of the invention by a compressed air supply system according to claim 1. In particular, the invention proposes that the compressed air supply system further comprises an auxiliary compressed air connection which is connected to the first compressor stage, wherein the supply line is configured to carry compressed air from the auxiliary compressed air connection to the auxiliary compressed air supply connection, and the auxiliary compressed air supply connection is configured to provide compressed air at the first pressure level, and that the main compressed air connection is connected to the second compressor stage and the main compressed air supply connection is configured to provide compressed air at the second pressure level.An air supply system according to the invention thus enables the supply of compressed air at the second pressure level to a main consumer via the main compressed air supply connection and, additionally, the supply of compressed air at a first, lower pressure level to an auxiliary consumer via the auxiliary compressed air supply connection. Thus, two independent compressed air supplies are enabled with only one compressor: on the one hand, via the main compressed air connection and the main compressed air supply connection for supplying the main consumer, and on the other hand, via the auxiliary compressed air connection and the auxiliary compressed air supply connection for supplying the auxiliary consumer. Because the compressed air supplied to the auxiliary consumer has the first, lower pressure level, auxiliary consumers and main consumers with different pressure level requirements can be supplied according to their needs.Furthermore, supplying an auxiliary consumer with compressed air at the first, lower pressure level is advantageous if such an auxiliary consumer forms an open compressed air supply with the compressed air supply system. In this scenario, the compressed air supply system provides compressed air to the auxiliary consumer, who then releases the compressed air to the environment after actuating auxiliary actuators. The compressed air lost to the environment in this way cannot be returned to the compressed air supply system and therefore cannot be used to regenerate the air dryer. Because the compressed air supplied at the auxiliary compressed air connection is only at the first pressure level, the load on the compressor caused by the lost compressed air is reduced. This increases the efficiency of the compressed air supply system without impairing the function of either the main consumer or the auxiliary consumer.

[0016] Within the scope of the invention, a pneumatic switching element is understood to be an electrically or pneumatically actuated component for selectively enabling or disabling a pneumatic connection.

[0017] 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 problem statement and with regard to further advantages.

[0018] According to a preferred embodiment, the supply line is a boost line to which a reservoir for filling the first compressor stage can be connected. Alternatively, the supply line is preferably a boost line to which a reservoir of the compressed air supply system is connected. More preferably, the pneumatic switching element is a filling valve configured for selectively opening and closing the boost line. Thus, the boost line can be used to deliver compressed air from the first compressor stage via the auxiliary compressed air connection to the auxiliary compressed air supply connection. This eliminates the need for additional pneumatic lines and provides a more compact compressed air supply system overall.

[0019] Preferably, the compressed air supply system comprises a reservoir, a boost branch line connected to the reservoir and branching off from the supply line between the auxiliary compressed air connection and the auxiliary compressed air supply connection, and a filling valve located in the boost branch line and configured for selectively blocking and releasing the boost branch line. Thus, compressed air can be routed from the reservoir via the supply line and the boost branch line to the auxiliary compressed air connection.

[0020] Preferably, the first and second compressor stages are connected in series, with the auxiliary compressed air connection located between them. Furthermore, because the first and second compressor stages are connected in series and the auxiliary compressed air connection is located between them, the compressed air supplied from the reservoir to the auxiliary compressed air connection can be used to charge the second compressor stage and fed to an inlet of the second compressor stage. Thus, the supply line can be used not only to supply the auxiliary consumer but also to charge the second compressor stage. The compressed air supply system is therefore more compact overall, as parallel pneumatic lines are no longer necessary.

[0021] According to a further preferred embodiment, the compressed air supply system comprises a reservoir, a boost line connected to the reservoir, and a filling valve arranged in the boost line and configured for selectively opening and closing the boost line, the boost line being connected to the second compressor stage. In particular, the first and second compressor stages are connected in series, with the auxiliary compressed air connection located between the first and second compressor stages, and the boost line being connected to the auxiliary compressed air connection. The second compressor stage can thus be charged with compressed air from the reservoir via the reservoir and the boost line. The boost line runs independently of the supply line between the reservoir and the second compressor stage, specifically between the reservoir and the auxiliary compressed air connection.Thus, charging of the second compressor stage is possible independently of the supply of compressed air via the auxiliary compressed air connection and the supply line to an auxiliary consumer.

[0022] According to a further preferred embodiment, the compressed air supply system has an intake port or a combined intake and exhaust port, and the first compressor stage has a first inlet and a first outlet connected to the intake port or the intake and exhaust port. The second compressor stage preferably has a second outlet connected to the main pneumatic line and a second inlet connected to the first outlet via a section of pipe. This is thus a two-stage compressor in which compressed air passes through the first and second compressor stages sequentially. In the first compressor stage, compressed air is pre-compressed to the first pressure level and passes through the pipe section into the second compressor stage, where the compressed air is compressed to the target compressed air level, the second compressed air level.These types of compressors are also known as twin compressors.

[0023] Preferably, the compressed air supply system further comprises a compressor switching valve designed to selectively block and release the section of pipe. This allows the first compressor stage to be isolated from the second compressor stage as needed. It is therefore possible to supply compressed air to an auxiliary consumer at the first outlet of the first compressor stage, while no compressed air from the first compressor stage is present in the second compressor stage. Accordingly, no compressed air at the second compressed air level can be supplied via the second outlet of the second compressor stage and fed into the main pneumatic line via the main compressed air connection. The first compressor stage can thus be operated independently of the second compressor stage and used to supply compressed air.Preferably, the compressor switching valve is a 2 / 2-way compressor valve, which is preferably normally closed and electrically or pneumatically actuated. In the case of a pneumatically actuated 2 / 2-way compressor valve, it is preferably actuated by a control pressure taken from the outlet side of the first compressor stage, i.e., a control pressure taken from the first outlet of the first compressor stage.

[0024] The invention solves the aforementioned problem in a second aspect by means of a pneumatic system according to claim 7.

[0025] In particular, the invention proposes that the pneumatic system comprises a compressed air supply system according to the first aspect of the invention, a main consumer connected to the main compressed air supply port, and an auxiliary consumer connected to the auxiliary compressed air supply port. Such a pneumatic system, through the existing compressed air supply system, benefits from the advantages described above in relation to the first aspect of the invention. Advantages and preferred embodiments according to the first aspect of the invention are therefore also advantages and preferred embodiments according to the second aspect of the invention, and vice versa.

[0026] Preferably, the main consumer is configured to form a closed compressed air supply with the compressed air supply system, such that compressed air is supplied to the main consumer to actuate a number of main actuators and compressed air is returned to the compressed air supply system to vent the main actuators.

[0027] Because the main consumer is a closed-loop compressed air supply system, the compressed air dried by the air dryer is not lost but can be reused to regenerate the air dryer. A suitably designed pneumatic system thus enables an increased operating time for the air dryer.

[0028] Preferably, the auxiliary consumer is configured to have an open compressed air supply from the compressed air supply system, such that compressed air is supplied to the auxiliary consumer to actuate a number of auxiliary actuators and is then discharged by the auxiliary consumer into the surrounding environment. This allows the pneumatic system to operate efficiently, as the auxiliary consumer does not receive dried compressed air to be discharged into the environment. Consequently, the air dryer is not burdened by the supply of compressed air that would otherwise be lost through discharge into the environment, and its saturation is not accelerated.

[0029] In preferred embodiments, the main consumer is an air suspension system or a braking system and / or the secondary consumer is a sensor cleaning device or a tire inflation system or a signal horn.

[0030] The invention solves the aforementioned problem in a third aspect by means of a vehicle according to claim 12.

[0031] The invention proposes that such a vehicle has a pneumatic system according to the second aspect of the invention. Through a corresponding pneumatic system with a compressed air supply system, the vehicle benefits from the advantages described in relation to the first and second aspects of the invention. Advantages and preferred embodiments according to the first and second aspects of the invention are therefore also preferred embodiments and advantages according to the third aspect of the invention.

[0032] The invention solves the aforementioned problem in a fourth aspect by using a boost line to form the supply line in a compressed air supply system, in particular a compressed air supply system according to the first aspect of the invention.

[0033] The invention solves the aforementioned problem in a fifth aspect by means of a method according to claim 14.

[0034] In particular, the invention proposes a method for operating a pneumatic system, especially a pneumatic system according to the second aspect of the invention, which comprises the steps:

[0035] Compressing compressed air to a first pressure level with a first compressor stage and to a second pressure level with a second compressor stage, wherein the first pressure level is lower than the second pressure level, supplying compressed air at the second pressure level to a main compressed air connection,

[0036] Routing compressed air from the main compressed air connection to a main compressed air supply connection,

[0037] Supplying an auxiliary consumer connected to the secondary compressed air supply connection with compressed air at the first pressure level and / or the second pressure level,

[0038] Provide compressed air at the first pressure level at a secondary compressed air connection,

[0039] Routing compressed air from the auxiliary compressed air connection to an auxiliary compressed air supply connection,

[0040] Supplying a main consumer connected to a main compressed air supply port with compressed air at the second pressure level.

[0041] By supplying a main consumer with compressed air at the second pressure level via the main compressed air supply connection and a secondary consumer with compressed air at the first pressure level via the secondary compressed air supply connection, the method takes advantage of the benefits described above with respect to the first aspect of the invention. Advantages and preferred embodiments described with respect to the first and second aspects of the invention are also preferred embodiments of the method according to the fifth aspect of the invention.

[0042] Preferably, in the method according to the invention, the compressed air at the first pressure level is routed at least section by section via a boost line to the secondary compressed air supply connection. By routing compressed air via a boost line, which is typically used to supply compressed air from a reservoir to an inlet of the second compressor stage with the aim of charging the second compressor stage, functional integration is enabled. Such an operating method allows for the efficient use of existing lines, in this case the boost line, for integrating new functions into a compressed air supply system.

[0043] Embodiments of the invention are now described below with reference to the drawings and comparison with the prior art, some of which is also shown. These drawings are not necessarily to scale; rather, where explanatory, they are presented in a schematic and / or slightly distorted form. For further details regarding the teachings directly apparent from the drawings, reference is made to the relevant prior art. It should be noted that numerous modifications and changes concerning the form and details of an embodiment can be made without deviating from the general idea of ​​the invention. The features of the invention disclosed in the description, the drawings, and the claims can be essential for the further development of the invention, both individually and in any combination.Furthermore, the invention encompasses all combinations of at least two of the features disclosed in the description, the drawing, and / or the claims. The general idea of ​​the invention is not limited to the exact shape or detail of the preferred embodiment shown and described below, nor is it limited to an object that would be restricted compared to the object claimed in the claims. Where specified dimensioning ranges are given, values ​​lying within the stated limits are also disclosed as limit values ​​and may be used and claimed as desired.

[0044] Further advantages, features and details of the invention will become apparent from the following description of the preferred embodiments and from the drawing; this shows in:

[0045] FIG. 1 schematically shows a vehicle with a pneumatic system in a first embodiment;

[0046] FIG. 2 schematically shows a vehicle with a pneumatic system in a second embodiment;

[0047] FIG. 3 schematically shows a vehicle with a pneumatic system in a third embodiment;

[0048] FIG. 4 schematically shows a vehicle with a pneumatic system in a fourth embodiment;

[0049] FIG. 5 schematically shows a vehicle with a pneumatic system in a fifth embodiment; FIG. 6 schematically shows a vehicle with a pneumatic system in a sixth embodiment;

[0050] FIG. 7 schematically shows a vehicle with a pneumatic system in a seventh embodiment;

[0051] FIG. 8 shows a method for operating a pneumatic system according to FIG. 1 to FIG. 7.

[0052] FIG. 1 shows a vehicle 1000, which may preferably be a passenger car 1100.

[0053] The vehicle 1000 comprises a pneumatic system 10 with a compressed air supply system 201 for providing compressed air D, D' and a main consumer 300 as well as at least one secondary consumer 400 for taking off the compressed air D, D'.

[0054] The compressed air supply system 201 includes a compressor 101 for compressing moist compressed air D and a compressed air supply system 201 for directing the compressed compressed air D, D' to the main consumer 300 and the auxiliary consumer 400.

[0055] The compressed air supply system 201 comprises a main compressed air connection 1.1 for connection to the compressor 101 and a main compressed air supply connection 2.1, which is configured for connecting the main consumer 300. Dried compressed air D' is supplied to the main consumer 300 at the main compressed air supply connection 2.1.

[0056] The compressed air supply system 201 further includes an auxiliary compressed air supply connection 2.2, which is configured for connecting the auxiliary consumer 400. The compressed air supply system 201 is configured to provide compressed, moist compressed air D at the auxiliary compressed air supply connection 2.2 for the auxiliary consumer 400. Furthermore, the compressed air supply system 201 includes a combined intake and exhaust connection 0 / 3. It should be understood that the compressed air supply system 201 can alternatively also include two separate connections: one for venting the compressed air supply system (namely, an exhaust connection) and one for drawing compressed air for the compressor (namely, an intake connection). Such connections for compressed air supply systems are known.

[0057] The intake and exhaust port 0 / 3 is connected to the compressor 101 via an intake line 213 of the compressed air supply system 201. A first compressor stage 110 is designed with a first inlet 111 for connection to the intake line 213. The first compressor stage 110 preferably compresses the aspirated moist compressed air D to a first pressure level D1 and makes this compressed air available at a first outlet 112. The compressor 101 shown in FIG. 1 is a so-called twin compressor. This is a preferred embodiment, which is not to be understood as limiting. In the case of a twin compressor, the compressed air D, compressed to the first pressure level D1, is fed from the first outlet 112 of the first compressor stage 110 to a second compressor stage 120.

[0058] The second compressor stage 120 has a second inlet 121 and a second outlet 122. The first outlet 112 is connected to the second inlet 121 of the second compressor stage 120 via a pipe section 140. The second compressor stage 120 is configured to compress the moist compressed air D, compressed to the first pressure level D1, to a second pressure level D2 and supply it at the second outlet 122. The first compressor stage 110 and the second compressor stage 120 are preferably driven by a motor 130. The moist compressed air D, compressed to the second pressure level D2, is supplied to the compressed air supply system 201 at the main compressed air connection 1.1.

[0059] The compressed air supply system 201 comprises a pneumatic main line 210 for conveying the compressed air D supplied at the main compressed air connection 1.1 to the main compressed air supply connection 2.1. The compressed air supply system 201 also includes an air dryer 220 arranged in the pneumatic main line 210, which is configured to dry the moist compressed air D supplied from the main compressed air connection 1.1 to the air dryer 220, so that dry compressed air D' is supplied at the main compressed air supply connection 2.1. Due to compression by means of the second compressor stage 120, the dry compressed air D' supplied at the main compressed air supply connection 2.1 has the second compressed air level D2. The compressed air D, D' is conveyed in a filling direction B from the main compressed air connection 1.1 to the main compressed air supply connection 2.1. The pneumatic main line 210 is subdivided into a wet main line section 210.1 , which is designed downstream of the air dryer in the filling direction B, and a dry main line section 210.2, which is designed upstream of the air dryer 220 in the filling direction B.

[0060] In the filling direction B downstream of the air dryer 220, a throttle 230 is also arranged, which is designed to reduce the relative humidity of the compressed air by expanding it.

[0061] The compressed air supply system 201 further comprises a venting valve arrangement 260, which is designed to allow venting of the main consumer 300 and the compressed air supply system 201, in particular the pneumatic main line 210, via the combined intake and venting connection 0 / 3.

[0062] The main consumer 300, together with the compressed air supply system 201, forms a closed compressed air supply G. To vent the main consumer 300, compressed air is returned to the main pneumatic line 210 and conveyed to the air dryer 220 against the filling direction B. The compressed air returned against the filling direction B is first depressurized by the throttle 230, thus reducing its relative humidity. As this depressurized compressed air is returned through the air dryer 220, moisture from a drying granulate in the air dryer 220 is bound, thereby regenerating the air dryer 220. Upstream of the air dryer 220 in the filling direction B, a vent line 216 branches off from the main pneumatic line 210, specifically from the moist section of the main line 210.The pneumatic main line 210 branches off and is configured to direct the compressed air returned by the air dryer 220 against the filling direction B via the venting valve assembly 260 towards the combined intake and venting port 0 / 3. The venting line 216 connects to the intake line 213. The venting valve assembly 260 includes a relay valve 261, which is configured to selectively block and release the venting line 216. The relay valve 261 is actuated via a venting pilot valve 262. Such venting valve assemblies 260 are known and are not described in detail here. The compressed air supply system 201 also includes a supply line 251, which is configured to carry compressed air D from the auxiliary compressed air port 1.2 to the auxiliary compressed air supply port 2.2. A pneumatic switching element 250 is arranged in the supply line 251.The pneumatic switching element 250 is designed for selectively blocking and releasing the supply line 251.

[0063] The term "switching valve" or "pneumatic switching element" refers to a pneumatic element that can switch between at least two switching states, either through controlled actuation (e.g., electrical or pneumatic) or autonomously. Examples include 2 / 2-way valves, 3 / 2-way valves, and check valves. Check valves automatically switch from a closed position, where bidirectional compressed air flow is prevented, to a release position, where only unidirectional compressed air flow is possible, by applying an opening pressure. The opening pressure must be applied to the inlet side of the check valve, allowing compressed air to flow from the inlet side to the outlet side in the release position.

[0064] The auxiliary compressed air connection 1.2 is connected to the first compressor stage 110 and, in particular, to a first outlet 112 of the first compressor stage 110. Compressed air D with the first pressure level D1 is thus conveyed from the first compressor stage 110 to the compressed air supply connection 2.2 via the auxiliary compressed air connection 1.2 and the supply line 251. The auxiliary consumer 400 is therefore supplied with moist compressed air D, which has a first pressure level D1 that is lower than the second pressure level D2 provided by the second compressor stage 120 at the main compressed air connection 1.1.

[0065] In FIG. 1, the supply line 251 is a boost line 282, to which a reservoir (not shown) can also be connected for charging the second compressor stage 120. In this case, the pneumatic switching element acts as a filling valve 283 (see FIG. 2 and FIG. 3). To charge the second compressor stage 120 via such a boost line 282, compressed air D is supplied to the second inlet 121 of the second compressor stage 120 via the boost line 282 and the pipe section 140. The main consumer 300 is preferably an air spring system 301. The air spring system 301 comprises a gallery 313 connected to the main compressed air supply connection 2.1, to which a number of main actuators 320 are connected. The main actuators 320 are preferably air spring bellows 321, 322, 323, 324, which are connected to the gallery 313 via a main consumer valve arrangement 330.The main consumer valve arrangement 330 comprises a number of main consumer switching valves 331, 332, 333, 334, each main consumer switching valve 331, 332, 333, 334 being assigned to a corresponding air spring bellows 321, 322, 323, 324. The main consumer switching valves 331, 332, 333, 334 shown are configured to act as check valves in the first switching position S1 shown and to allow a unidirectional flow of compressed air from the gallery 313 to the main actuators 320. In a second switching position not shown, the main consumer switching valves 331, 332, 333, 334 are configured to allow a bidirectional compressed air flow between the gallery 313 and the main actuators 320.

[0066] Furthermore, the main consumer 300 optionally includes a switchable gallery valve 350 arranged between gallery 313 and the main compressed air supply connection 2.1. In the first switching position S1 shown, the valve is configured to act as a check valve, allowing exclusively unidirectional compressed air flow into gallery 313. In a second switching position (not shown), the gallery valve 350 is configured to allow bidirectional compressed air flow between gallery 313 and the main compressed air supply connection 2.1.

[0067] Furthermore, the main consumer 300 includes a pressure sensor 360 connected to the gallery 313, which is configured to detect a gallery pressure DG. This gallery pressure DG can preferably be used as a control signal for controlling the gallery valve 350 or the main consumer valve arrangement 330.

[0068] The auxiliary consumer 400 preferably forms an open compressed air supply O with the compressed air supply system 201. Compressed air D is conveyed from the auxiliary compressed air connection 1.2 via the supply line 250 to the auxiliary consumer 400, which then releases the compressed air D into the environment A via auxiliary consumer switching valves 420, 430 to actuate auxiliary actuators (not shown). The auxiliary consumer switching valves 420, 430 are connected to the auxiliary compressed air supply connection 2.2 via a common supply line 410.

[0069] The auxiliary actuators are preferably cleaning nozzles of a sensor cleaning device 401. The auxiliary consumer switching valves 420, 430 are shown here in a blocked position SP, in which the supply line 410 is blocked. In the second switching position (not shown), the auxiliary consumer switching valves 420, 430 release the supply line 410, and the compressed air D supplied at the auxiliary consumer compressed air supply connection 2.2 is supplied to the cleaning nozzles (not shown) of the sensor cleaning device 401 and discharged via these to the environment A. It should be understood that both the air spring system 301 and the sensor cleaning device 401 are merely examples of main consumers 300 and auxiliary consumers 400, which are not to be interpreted restrictively.

[0070] FIG. 2 shows a second embodiment of the vehicle 1000 and, in particular, the compressed air supply system 201. Identical or similar components have identical reference numerals, and only differences between the compressed air supply system 100 according to FIG. 1 and the compressed air supply system 100 according to FIG. 2 are discussed.

[0071] The pneumatic system according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, and in particular its compressed air supply system 201, differs from the first embodiment in that a boost line 282 branches off from the supply line 251 in the form of a boost branch line 284. The boost branch line 284 branches off from the supply line 251 at the boost branch point ZB. A filling valve 283 is arranged in the boost branch line 284, which is configured for selectively enabling and disabling the boost line 282, which is designed as a boost branch line 284. A reservoir 281 is arranged on the boost branch line 284. The filling valve 283 is arranged between the branch point ZB and the reservoir 281. The filling line 283 is interrupted by the filling valve 283 and only enabled as needed.The filling valve 283 thus also allows, if required, the second compressor stage 120 to be charged with compressed air D from the reservoir 281. The boost line 282 or the boost branch line 284, the filling valve 283 and the reservoir 281 are components of a reservoir unit 280.

[0072] FIG. 3 shows a third embodiment of the vehicle 1000 and, in particular, of the compressed air supply system 203. Identical or similar components have identical reference numerals, and only differences between the compressed air supply system 201 according to FIG. 1 and the compressed air supply system 203 according to FIG. 3 are discussed.

[0073] The third embodiment according to FIG. 3 differs from the first embodiment according to FIG. 1 in that a boost line 282 extends from the compressor 101, in particular the line section 140, parallel to the supply line 251. The boost line 282 is configured to connect the second inlet 221 of the second compressor stage 120 to a reservoir 281. The reservoir 281 and the boost line 282 are components of a reservoir unit 280, which further comprises a filling valve 283 arranged in the boost line 282. The filling valve 283 is configured to selectively close and open the boost line. In the embodiment shown, the filling valve 283 is a 2 / 2-way valve.

[0074] Thus, the supply line 251 and the boost line 282 are routed independently of each other. This also allows, if required, the simultaneous charging of the second compressor stage 120 with compressed air from the reservoir 281 and the provision of compressed air D at the first pressure level D1 at the auxiliary compressed air supply connection 2.2 for the auxiliary consumer 400.

[0075] It should also be understood that the filling valve 283 and the pneumatic switching element 250 can also be combined in a 3 / 2-way valve, which can be arranged in the pipe section 140 between the auxiliary compressed air connection 1.2 and the second inlet 121 of the second compressor stage 120.

[0076] FIG. 4 shows a fourth embodiment of the vehicle 1000 and, in particular, the compressed air supply system 204. Identical or similar components have identical reference numerals, and only the differences between the compressed air supply system 201 according to FIG. 1 and the compressed air supply system 204 according to FIG. 4 are discussed. In particular, the compressed air supply system 204 of the pneumatic system 10 differs from the first embodiment shown in FIG. 1 by a compressor switching valve 290, which is arranged in the pipe section 140 between the auxiliary compressed air connection 1.2 and the second inlet 121 of the second compressor stage 120. The compressor switching valve 290 is designed for the selective opening and closing of the pipe section 140.

[0077] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 4, the compressor switching valve 290 is an electrically actuated 2 / 2-way compressor valve 291, in particular a normally closed 2 / 2-way compressor valve 291.

[0078] FIG. 5 shows a fifth embodiment of the vehicle 1000 and, in particular, of the compressed air supply system 205. Identical or similar components have identical reference numerals, and only differences between the compressed air supply system 201 according to FIG. 1 and the compressed air supply system 205 according to FIG. 5 are discussed.

[0079] The embodiment shown in FIG. 5 differs from the fourth embodiment shown in FIG. 4 in the design of the compressor switching valve 290. In this case, the compressor switching valve 290 is a pneumatically actuated 2 / 2-way compressor valve 292. A pneumatically actuated compressor switching valve 290 allows for a significantly increased opening force in the event of icing. The compressor switching valve 290 is located in the medium-pressure range, where there is an increased tendency for condensation. This is counteracted by the increased opening force.

[0080] The 2 / 2-way compressor valve 292 is actuated by means of a compressor pilot valve 293. For actuation, the compressor pilot valve 293 draws a control pressure DS between the auxiliary compressed air port 1.2 and the pneumatic switching element 250. In this section, a pressure increase occurs if the first compressor stage 110 provides pressure at the auxiliary compressed air port 1.2 at the first pressure level D1, but the pneumatic switching element blocks the supply line 251. In this case, the compressor pilot valve 293 draws the control pressure DS between the auxiliary compressed air port 1.2 and the pneumatic switching element 250 via a supply line 294 and supplies it to the pneumatically actuated 2 / 2-way compressor valve 292 via an actuation line 296.Furthermore, the compressor pilot valve 293 is designed to connect the 2 / 2-way compressor valve 292 with a valve vent line 295, which is connected to the intake line 213 and thus enables a connection to the vent and intake port 0 / 3.

[0081] FIG. 6 shows a sixth embodiment of the vehicle 1000 with the pneumatic system 11. Identical or similar components have identical reference numerals, and only differences regarding the pneumatic system 10 according to FIG. 1 and the pneumatic system 11 according to FIG. 6 are discussed.

[0082] The embodiment according to FIG. 6 differs from the second embodiment shown in FIG. 2 in that the compressor switching valve 290 described in connection with FIG. 4 and FIG. 5 is optionally provided for selectively blocking and releasing the pipe section 140. In FIG. 6, the compressor switching valve 290 is shown as an electrically actuated 2 / 2-way compressor valve 291. However, it can also be a pneumatically actuated 2 / 2-way compressor valve.

[0083] Furthermore, the embodiment shown in FIG. 6 differs from the second embodiment according to FIG. 2 in that the auxiliary consumer 400 is a first auxiliary consumer 400 and the pneumatic system 10 also has a second auxiliary consumer 500. The auxiliary compressed air supply connection 2.2 of the compressed air supply system 201 is also a first auxiliary compressed air supply connection 2.2 and the compressed air supply system 201 also has a second auxiliary compressed air supply connection 2.3, to which the second auxiliary consumer 500 is connected.

[0084] Furthermore, the supply line 251 is a first supply line 251, and the compressed air supply system 201 also has a second supply line 254, which is configured to connect the main compressed air connection 1.1 with the second auxiliary compressed air supply connection 2.3. A third pneumatic switching element 280 is preferably arranged in the second supply line 254, which is configured to selectively block and release the second supply line 254. Thus, the first auxiliary consumer can be supplied with compressed air D at the first pressure level D1 via the auxiliary compressed air connection 1.2 via the first supply line 251 and the first auxiliary compressed air supply connection 2.2. Both the second auxiliary consumer 500 and the main consumer 300 can be supplied with compressed air D at the second pressure level D2 via the main compressed air connection 1.1.The second supply line 254 branches off from the main pneumatic line 210 at a junction Z between the main compressed air connection 1.1 and the air dryer 220. Thus, the second supply line 254 branches off from the wet section 210.1 of the main pneumatic line 210.

[0085] The branch point Z of the second supply line 254 is particularly preferred, located between the main compressed air connection 1.1 and a venting branch point E, at which the venting line 216 branches off from the main pneumatic line 210.

[0086] The second auxiliary consumer 500 is preferably a tire inflation system 501 or a signal horn 502.

[0087] FIG. 7 shows a sixth embodiment of the vehicle 1000 with the pneumatic system 12. Identical or similar components have identical reference numerals, and only differences regarding the pneumatic system 10 according to FIG. 1 and the pneumatic system 12 according to FIG. 7 are discussed.

[0088] The seventh embodiment shown in FIG. 7 differs from the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 in that the main consumer 300 is not an air spring system, but a brake system 302. Such a brake system 302, together with the compressed air supply system 100, forms a closed compressed air supply D.

[0089] FIG. 8 shows a method 2000 for operating a pneumatic system 10 of a vehicle 1000, in particular a commercial vehicle 1100.

[0090] Method 2000 comprises, in a first step 2100, the compression of compressed air D to a first pressure level D1 by a first compressor stage 110 and preferably to a second pressure level D2 by a second compressor stage 120, wherein the second pressure level D2 is higher than the first pressure level D1. Preferably, the first step 2100 comprises a sub-step 2110 in which a compressor switching valve 290 blocks sequential flow from the first compressor stage 110 to the second compressor stage 120. It should be understood that, during the operation of pneumatic systems 10, 11, as shown in FIGS. 4 to 6, a compressor switching valve 290 can, at least temporarily, also be used to compress only compressed air from the first compressor stage 110 to the first pressure level D1.

[0091] Preferably, in a second step 2200, the method 2000 further comprises the provision of compressed air D at the second pressure level D2 at a main compressed air connection 1.1. Furthermore, the method preferably comprises, in a third step 2300, the routing of compressed air D from the main compressed air connection 1.1 to a main compressed air supply connection 2.1.

[0092] In a fourth step 2700, the procedure 2000 includes supplying a main consumer 300 connected to the main compressed air supply connection 2.1 with compressed air D at the second pressure level D2.

[0093] The second, third and fourth steps 2200, 2300, 2400 are only carried out if a possible compressor shut-off valve 290 allows the supply of compressed air D with the first pressure level D1 from the first compressor stage 110 to the second compressor stage 120 in sub-step 2110 and thus releases the line section 140.

[0094] In a fifth step 2500, the process 2000 includes the provision of compressed air D with the first pressure level D1 at a secondary compressed air connection 1.2.

[0095] In a sixth step 2600, the procedure 2000 includes the routing of compressed air D from the auxiliary compressed air connection 1.2 to an auxiliary compressed air supply connection 2.2.

[0096] In a seventh step 2700, the method 2000 comprises supplying an auxiliary consumer 400 connected to the auxiliary compressed air connection 2.2 with compressed air D at the first pressure level D1 and / or the second pressure level D2. In the sixth step 2600, it is further preferred that the compressed air D at the first pressure level D1 is routed at least section by section via a boost line 282 to the auxiliary compressed air supply connection 2.2.

[0097] Preferably, the method further comprises in an eighth step 2800 the supply of compressed air D from the main compressed air connection 1.1 to a second auxiliary compressed air supply connection 2.3 and in a ninth step 2900 the provision of compressed air D with the second pressure level D2 at the second auxiliary compressed air supply connection 2.3.

[0098] In a tenth step 3000, the procedure 2000 includes supplying a second auxiliary consumer 500 connected to the second auxiliary compressed air supply connection 2.3 with compressed air D at the second pressure level D2.

[0099] In summary, the invention relates to a compressed air supply system 100, which comprises: a compressor 101 with at least one first and second compressor stage 110, 120 for compressing compressed air D to two different pressure levels D1, D2, a compressed air supply system 201, 202, 203, 204, 205, 206 with a main compressed air connection 1.1 connected to the compressor 101, a pneumatic main line 210 with an air dryer 220 for drying and conveying compressed air D from the main compressed air connection to a main compressed air supply connection 2.1, and a supply line 251 for conveying compressed air D to a secondary compressed air supply connection 2.2 with a switchable pneumatic element 250 for enabling and disabling the supply line 251.The invention proposes that the main compressed air connection is connected to the second compressor stage 120 and that the compressed air supply system 201, 202, 203, 204, 205, 206 has a secondary compressed air connection 1.2 connected to the first compressor stage 110, wherein the supply line 251 carries compressed air D from the secondary compressed air connection 1.2 to the secondary compressed air supply connection 2.2. Optionally, a secondary compressed air connection 1.2 with a high second pressure level D2 is provided connected to the second compressor stage 120, wherein a second supply line 254 carries compressed air D from the secondary compressed air connection 1.2 to the secondary compressed air supply connection 2.3. The invention further relates to a pneumatic system 10, 11, 12, a vehicle 1000, and an operating procedure 2000.

[0100] The auxiliary compressed air connection 1.2 can therefore be connected to the first or second compressor stage as required by the system. Furthermore, one auxiliary consumer 400 can be connected to each of the first and second compressor stages 110 and 120. If no auxiliary consumer 400 is connected to the first compressor stage 110, a compressed air reservoir D can also provide compressed air for boosting the compressor 100. Alternatively, the auxiliary consumer 400 (low pressure) and the reservoir can be connected for boosting.

[0101] Other variations of the disclosed embodiments can be understood and carried out by a person skilled in the art when carrying out the claimed invention with reference to the drawings, the disclosure and the accompanying claims.

[0102] In the claims, the word "comprehensive" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality.

[0103] A single unit or device can perform the functions of several elements listed in the claims. The fact that certain measures are listed in different interdependent claims does not mean that a combination of these measures cannot be advantageous.

[0104] Any reference numerals in the claims are not to be understood as limiting the scope of application.

[0105] Reference symbol list (part of the description)

[0106] 1.1 Main compressed air connection

[0107] 1.2 Auxiliary compressed air connection

[0108] 2.1 Main compressed air supply connection

[0109] 2.2 (first) secondary compressed air supply connection

[0110] 2.3 Second auxiliary compressed air supply connection

[0111] 0 / 3 combined intake and exhaust port

[0112] 10, 11, 12 pneumatic system

[0113] 100 compressed air supply system

[0114] 101 compressors

[0115] 110 first compressor stage

[0116] 111 first admission

[0117] 112 first outlet

[0118] 120 second compressor stage

[0119] 121 second entrance

[0120] 122 second outlet

[0121] 130 engine

[0122] 140 cable section

[0123] 201-206 Compressed air supply system

[0124] 210 Pneumatic main line

[0125] 210.1 damp main line section

[0126] 210.2 dry main line section

[0127] 213 Intake pipe

[0128] 216 Vent line

[0129] 220 air dryers

[0130] 221 Air dryer inlet

[0131] 230 throttle

[0132] 250 (first) pneumatic switching element

[0133] 251 (first) supply line

[0134] 254 second supply line

[0135] 255 second pneumatic switching element

[0136] 260 Vent valve arrangement

[0137] 261 Relay valve

[0138] 262 Venting pilot valve 80 Reservoir unit

[0139] 281 Reservoir

[0140] 282 Boost line

[0141] 283 Filling valve

[0142] 284 Boost branch line

[0143] 290 Compressor switching valve

[0144] 291 Electrically operated 2 / 2-way compressor valve

[0145] 292 pneumatically actuated 2 / 2-way compressor valve

[0146] 293 Compressor pilot valve

[0147] 294 Supply line

[0148] 295 Valve vent line

[0149] 296 Actuating line

[0150] 300 main consumers

[0151] 301 Air suspension system

[0152] 302 Brake system

[0153] 313 Gallery

[0154] 320 main actuators

[0155] 321-324 Air springs

[0156] 330 Main consumer valve arrangement

[0157] 331-334 Main consumer switching valves

[0158] 350 gallery valve

[0159] 360 pressure sensor, 400 auxiliary consumers

[0160] 401 Sensor cleaning device

[0161] 410 Supply line

[0162] 420 auxiliary actuators

[0163] 430 auxiliary actuators

[0164] 500 secondary consumers

[0165] 501 Tire inflation system

[0166] 502 Signal horn

[0167] 1000 vehicles

[0168] 1100 passenger cars

[0169] 2000 procedures

[0170] 2100 Compressing compressed air

[0171] 2110 Second compressor stage lockout

[0172] 2200 Supplying compressed air to the main compressed air supply connection 2300 Providing compressed air at the main compressed air supply connection 2400 Supplying a main consumer 2500 Supplying compressed air to the (first) secondary compressed air supply connection

[0173] 2500 Provision of compressed air at the (first) secondary compressed air supply connection

[0174] 2700 Supplying a (first) auxiliary consumer 2800 Supplying compressed air to the (second) auxiliary compressed air supply connection

[0175] 2900 Supply of compressed air at the (second) auxiliary compressed air supply connection

[0176] 3000 Supplying a (second) secondary consumer A environment

[0177] Compressed air

[0178] D1 first pressure level

[0179] D2 second pressure level

[0180] DS control pressure

[0181] DG Gallery Print

[0182] G closed compressed air supply

[0183] 0 open compressed air supply

[0184] E Venting point Z Branch point

[0185] ZB Boost junction

[0186] B Filling direction

[0187] S1 first switching position

[0188] SP Locking Position

Claims

1. Patent claims 1. Compressed air supply system (100) for a pneumatic system (10, 11, 12) of a vehicle (1000), in particular according to one of the preceding claims, comprising: a compressor (101) with a first compressor stage (110) for compressing compressed air (D) to a first pressure level (D1) and a second compressor stage (120) for compressing the compressed air (D) to a second pressure level (D2), wherein the second pressure level (D2) is higher than the first pressure level (D1), a compressed air supply system (201, 202, 203, 204, 205, 206) with a main compressed air connection (1.1) for connection to the compressor (101), a main compressed air supply connection (2.1) and a secondary compressed air supply connection (2.2) for providing compressed air (D), and a pneumatic main line. (210) for conveying compressed air (D) from the main compressed air connection (1.1) to the main compressed air supply connection (2.1), an air dryer (220) arranged in the main pneumatic line (210) for drying the compressed air supplied to the main compressed air supply connection (2.1), a supply line (251) for supplying compressed air (D) to the secondary compressed air supply connection (2.2), and a pneumatic switching element (250) arranged in the supply line (251) for selectively enabling and disabling the supply line (251), wherein the main compressed air supply connection (2.1) is configured for connecting a main consumer (300) and the secondary compressed air supply connection (2.2) is configured for connecting a secondary consumer (400), characterized in that the compressed air supply system (201, 202, 203, 204, 205, 206) further comprises a secondary compressed air connection (1.2) connected to the first compressor stage (110), wherein the Supply line (251 ) for conveying compressed air (D) from the auxiliary compressed air connection (1.2) to the auxiliary compressed air supply connection (2.2) is set up, wherein the secondary compressed air supply connection (2.2) is set up to provide compressed air (D) at the first pressure level (D1), and that the main compressed air connection (1.1) is connected to the second compressor stage (120) and the main compressed air supply connection (2.1) is set up to provide compressed air (D) at the second pressure level (D2).

2. Compressed air supply system (100) according to claim 1, wherein the supply line (251) is a boost line (282) to which a reservoir (280) for filling the first compressor stage (110) can be connected, and the pneumatic switching element (250) is a filling valve (283) which is configured to selectively release and block the boost line (282).

3. Compressed air supply system (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the compressed air supply system (202, 206) comprises a reservoir (281), a boost branch line (284) connected to the reservoir, which branches off from the supply line (251) between the auxiliary compressed air connection (1.2) and the auxiliary compressed air supply connection (2.2), and a filling valve (283) which is arranged in the boost branch line (284) and is configured to selectively release and block the boost branch line (284), wherein the first compressor stage (110) and the second compressor stage (120) are connected in series and the auxiliary compressed air connection (1.2) is arranged between the first compressor stage (110) and the second compressor stage (120).

4. Compressed air supply system (100) according to claim 1, wherein the compressed air supply system (203) comprises a reservoir (281), a boost line (282) connected to the reservoir, and a filling valve (283) arranged in the boost line (282) and configured to selectively release and block the boost line (282), and wherein the boost line (282) is connected to the second compressor stage (120).

5. Compressed air supply system (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first compressor stage (110) has a first inlet (111) connected to an intake port (0 / 3) and a first outlet (112), and the second compressor stage (120) has a second outlet (122) connected to the pneumatic main line (210) and a second inlet (121) connected to the first outlet (112) via a line section (140), wherein the compressed air supply system (204, 205, 206) further comprises a compressor switching valve (290) for selectively enabling and disabling the line section (140).

6. Compressed air supply system (100) according to claim 5, wherein the compressor switching valve (290) is a 2 / 2-way valve (291 , 292), Preferably the 2 / 2-way valve (291) is a normally closed 2 / 2-way compressor valve (291), or a pneumatically actuated 2 / 2-way compressor valve (292), which can be actuated by a control pressure (DS) taken from the outlet side of the first compressor stage (110).

7. Pneumatic system (10, 11, 12) for a vehicle (1000), in particular a passenger car (1100), comprising: a compressed air supply system (100) according to one of claims 1 to 6, a main consumer (300) connected to the main compressed air supply port (2.1), and an auxiliary consumer (400) connected to the secondary compressed air supply port (2.2).

8. Pneumatic system (10) according to claim 7, wherein the main consumer (300) is configured to form a closed compressed air supply (G) with the compressed air supply system (201 ) such that compressed air (D) at the second pressure level (D2) is supplied to the main consumer (300) for actuating a number of main actuators (320), and compressed air (D) is returned to the compressed air supply system (201 ) for venting the main actuators (320).

9. Pneumatic system (10) according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the auxiliary consumer (400) is configured to form an open compressed air supply (O) with the compressed air supply system (201) such that compressed air (D) at the first pressure level (D1) is supplied to the auxiliary consumer (400) for actuating a number of auxiliary actuators (420, 430) and is discharged by the auxiliary consumer (400) to an environment (A).

10. Pneumatic system (10) according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the main consumer (300) is an air suspension system (301) or a brake system (302), and / or wherein the secondary consumer (400) is a sensor cleaning device (401) or a tire inflation system (501) or a signal horn (502).

11. Pneumatic system (11) according to one of claims 7 to 10, wherein the auxiliary consumer (400) is a first auxiliary consumer (400), and the pneumatic system (10) has a second auxiliary compressed air supply connection (2.3) and a second auxiliary consumer (500) which is connected to the second compressor stage (120) via the main compressed air connection (1.1), wherein the second auxiliary compressed air supply connection (2.3) is configured to provide compressed air (D) at the second pressure level (D2).

12. Use of a boost line (282) to form a supply line (251) in a compressed air supply system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

13. Vehicle (1000), in particular passenger car (1100), with a pneumatic system (10, 11, 12) according to one of claims 7 to 11.

14. Method (2000) for operating a pneumatic system (10, 11, 12) of a vehicle (1000), in particular a commercial vehicle (1100), comprising the steps: Compression (2100) of compressed air (D) to a first pressure level (D1 ) with a first compressor stage (110) and to a second pressure level (D2) with a second compressor stage (120), wherein the second pressure level (D2) is higher than the first pressure level (D1 ), Providing (2200) compressed air (D) with the second pressure level (D2) at a main compressed air connection (1.1 ), Lead (2300) of compressed air (D) from the main compressed air connection (1 .1) to a main compressed air supply connection (2.1 ), Supplying (2400) a main consumer (300) connected to the main compressed air supply port (2.1) with compressed air (D) at the second pressure level (D2), Providing (2500) compressed air (D) with the first pressure level (D1 ) at a secondary compressed air connection (1.2), Lead (2600) of compressed air (D) from the auxiliary compressed air connection (1 .2) to an auxiliary compressed air supply connection (2.2), Supplying (2700) an auxiliary consumer (400) connected to the auxiliary compressed air supply port (2.2) with compressed air (D) at the first pressure level (D1 ) and / or the second pressure level (D2).

15. Method according to claim 14, wherein the compressed air (D) at the first pressure level (D1 ) is guided at least sectionally via a boost line (282) to the secondary compressed air supply connection (2.2).

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