Air dryer device, compressed air supply system, and vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to an air dryer device (LT) for a compressed air supply system (200) of a vehicle (FZ), in particular a passenger car (PN), comprising: a pneumatic compressor connection (1.1) for connecting to a compressor (100); a pneumatic supply connection (2.1) for connecting to a pneumatic main line (15); and an air dryer unit (LE) having a plurality of drying chambers (210) which extend in an axial direction (A) and which each have a drying granulate filling (212). The air dryer device is characterized by a pneumatic switching arrangement (230) which is designed for pneumatically connecting the compressor connection (1.1) at least to a primary drying chamber (210.1) and for pneumatically connecting the supply connection (2.1) selectively at least to the primary drying chamber (210.2) and to a secondary drying chamber (210.2) of the plurality of drying chambers (210), wherein the pneumatic switching arrangement (230) is designed to selectively pneumatically switch the primary drying chamber (210.1) and the secondary drying chamber (210.2) in such a way that, in accordance with operating requirements, at least the primary drying chamber (210.1) can be individually charged with compressed air, and, in accordance with operating requirements, the primary drying chamber (210.1) and the secondary drying chamber (210.2) can be operated such that flow can pass through them sequentially. The invention further relates to a method (1000, 2000) for operating an air dryer device (LT) for a compressed air supply system (200) of a vehicle (FZ) in at least two different operating modes (B1, B2, B3).

Description

[0001] Air dryer equipment, compressed air supply system and vehicle

[0002] The invention relates to an air dryer device according to the preamble of claim 1 for a compressed air supply system of a vehicle, in particular a passenger car. The invention further relates to a corresponding compressed air supply system and a vehicle with a compressed air supply system. The invention also relates to a method for operating the air dryer device.

[0003] In vehicles, compressed air supply systems provide compressed air to pneumatic systems. For this purpose, compressed air is supplied to the compressed air supply system via the compressed air connection by a compressor. In this description, compressors are used synonymously and refer to units that compress air. Such a compressor, together with the compressed air supply system and a pneumatic system, forms a pneumatic system. The control of such a pneumatic system is preferably carried out by an electronic control device, for example, a control unit.

[0004] Pneumatic systems include, for example, sensor cleaning devices that use compressed air as a cleaning fluid, or air spring systems that use compressed air to fill air springs. They all have in common that they feature multiple pneumatic switching valves for controlling the distribution or delivery of the compressed air supplied by the compressed air supply system.

[0005] In vehicles, it is generally necessary to dry the compressed air supplied to the pneumatic system by the compressed air supply system to prevent moisture in the pneumatic system, among other things to avoid malfunctions of the pneumatic switching valves in freezing conditions. Air dryers with an air dryer unit containing drying granules are known for supplying dried compressed air. The drying granules adsorb moisture from an airflow that passes through the air dryer unit.

[0006] The moisture absorption capacity of the air dryer is limited by the saturation of the drying granules within the unit. For this reason, air dryers are typically designed as regenerative units. To regenerate such a unit, dried compressed air is usually passed through the unit in a counterflow direction and released to the environment via a vent line and a vent connection.

[0007] The air dryer unit has one or more drying chambers through which compressed air flows sequentially. The compressed air passes through the one or more drying chambers before exiting the air dryer unit via an outlet opening. A corresponding air dryer unit is shown, for example, in EP 2794063 B1. This air dryer unit has two drying chambers through which compressed air flows sequentially, forming a comparatively long drying bed. The compressed air supply system for such an air dryer unit is then still relatively compact.

[0008] Appropriate air dryer systems have proven effective for this specific application. The long drying bed enables a high degree of drying, but simultaneously necessitates long regeneration cycles.

[0009] However, the availability of the air dryer unit for providing dried compressed air is limited. This poses a particular challenge in the field of autonomous driving, as the level of autonomy places increased demands on system availability and response times of pneumatic systems, such as sensor cleaning devices. Nevertheless, sufficient drying of the compressed air, even under extreme weather conditions such as very high humidity and low temperatures, is regularly required, especially in the field of autonomous driving, to ensure vehicle safety.

[0010] Sensor cleaning systems differ from so-called "closed" pneumatic systems, such as air spring systems, primarily in that they lose the dried compressed air, which is therefore unavailable for regenerating the air dryer. For these so-called "open" pneumatic systems, it is therefore particularly necessary and advantageous to utilize the limited dryer volume according to requirements. The compressed air required for regeneration in these systems must be generated by the compressor, which, in addition to making the compressed air supply unavailable for cleaning tasks, also results in additional energy consumption.

[0011] This is where the invention comes in, the object of which is to specify a preferred device, in particular an air dryer device, a compressed air supply system and a vehicle, as well as to specify a corresponding method which is designed in an improved way for operating an air dryer device.

[0012] The object of the present invention is to overcome at least one of the disadvantages known from the prior art. In particular, the object of the present invention is to ensure reliable drying by the air dryer device with high system availability and a reduced duration of regeneration cycles.

[0013] The invention solves the aforementioned problem in a first aspect by means of an air dryer device according to claim 1.

[0014] The invention relates to an air dryer device mentioned at the outset for a pneumatic system of a vehicle, in particular a passenger car.

[0015] The air dryer system includes:

[0016] at least one pneumatic compressor connection for connecting to a compressor, at least one pneumatic supply connection for connecting to a pneumatic main line, and

[0017] an air dryer unit with a plurality of separate drying chambers extending in an axial direction, each containing a drying granulate filling, and preferably at least one housing part which is coupled to at least one end face of the plurality of drying chambers.

[0018] To solve the aforementioned problem, the air dryer device has a pneumatic switching arrangement which is designed to pneumatically connect the compressor connection to at least one primary drying chamber and to selectively connect the supply connection to at least the primary drying chamber and to one secondary drying chamber of the majority of drying chambers. The pneumatic switching arrangement is further designed to selectively switch the primary and secondary drying chambers pneumatically in such a way that, as required by operation, at least the primary drying chamber can be individually supplied with compressed air, and the primary and secondary drying chambers can be operated with sequential airflow.

[0019] This invention, with its switchable separation of drying chambers, enables demand-based drying through adjustable drying capacity – drying only as much as necessary – while maintaining drying reserves for high drying requirements. Adaptive, demand-based drying is thus provided. Through the bypass circuit and, for example, two switchable drying chambers, a drying capacity of 0% drying, 100% drying, and partial drying or regeneration can be achieved – depending on the dryer volume distribution.

[0020] This application is also beneficial in "closed" pneumatic systems, as it prevents the air dryer unit from always operating at full capacity. This would allow for a reduction in the granule volume.

[0021] In this context, "operational requirements" refers to an operation dependent on the saturation of the drying granules in the air dryer unit and on the compressed air requirements of the pneumatic system connected to the compressed air supply connection, particularly with regard to the necessary volume flow and / or the necessary degree of drying.

[0022] The air dryer unit, as part of a compressed air supply system, is operated to meet the compressed air demand of a pneumatic system connected to the supply system. During drying, the drying chambers are switched on and off by the pneumatic switching arrangement, depending on the compressed air demand of the pneumatic system. This demand includes the necessary drying of the compressed air, i.e., a drying capacity of, for example, 100%, 50%, or 0%, and the required pressure. During regeneration, the amount of water bound in the drying granules in the respective drying chambers determines the regeneration requirement and thus the respective operating demand.If the amount of water bound in the drying granules in the primary drying chamber reaches a defined limit, the system reacts accordingly, supplying only the primary drying chamber with dried compressed air in a counterflow. The operating demand is therefore determined by the respective regeneration requirement and the system requirements regarding the necessary compressed air, i.e., the compressed air demand from a connected pneumatic system. In the event of a simultaneous system air demand, regeneration is not immediately possible. Instead, the second drying chamber is used to dry the system air. Regeneration of the first drying chamber then takes place subsequently.

[0023] The defined limit value refers to a value below the saturation limit of the drying granules. This limit is, in particular, at most 60%, and especially between 50% and 60%, of the maximum absorbable liquid quantity defined by the saturation limit. For example, 100 g of drying granules can absorb approximately 35 g of water, so the saturation limit is 35 g. If the drying granules now absorb 20 g of water, a saturation of 57% is reached, so the limit value of at most 60%, and especially between 50% and 60%, is reached. Due to the pneumatic switching arrangement (without bypass), at least one primary drying chamber of the majority of drying chambers can be operated with individual pneumatic flow, and alternatively, at least the primary and secondary drying chambers can be operated with sequential flow.Depending on operational requirements, such as weather conditions, the system requirements of the pneumatic system, or the saturation of the drying granules in the air dryer unit, increased drying capacity can be provided by sequentially flowing the air through the primary and secondary drying chambers. If operational requirements permit a lower drying capacity, pneumatic flow through the primary drying chamber is sufficient to dry the compressed air supplied at the compressed air connection. In this case, the saturation of at least the secondary drying chamber is not further increased. This already reduces the duration of the regeneration cycles and thus increases system availability. During regeneration cycles, the compressor cannot be used for system air supply.Furthermore, the pneumatic switching arrangement and the ability to separate the primary and secondary drying chambers allow the primary drying chamber to be regenerated individually by passing compressed air counter-currently against the filling direction. Due to the reduced length of the drying bed and the reduced amount of drying granules in the primary drying chamber, compared to most drying chambers, the required duration of the regeneration cycle is also reduced. The primary drying chamber can therefore be made available again very quickly, even when completely saturated. Thus, if required, at least the primary drying chamber is always available again after short regeneration cycles, enabling the drying of compressed air.

[0024] In other words, the air dryer unit, thanks to its pneumatic switching arrangement, can be operated in both a drying mode, where dried compressed air is supplied, and a regeneration mode, where the drying granules are dehumidified. In the first operating mode of the drying operation, the primary drying chamber can be individually supplied with compressed air, thus providing a reduced drying capacity. In this first operating mode, the drying bed of the air dryer unit—that is, a region within the unit filled with drying granules and through which compressed air can flow—is formed exclusively by the primary drying chamber. In a second operating mode, the primary and secondary drying chambers can be operated sequentially.In the second operating mode, the drying bed is thus formed by at least the primary and secondary drying chambers. This is consequently longer than the drying bed formed in the first operating mode, so the drying capacity is higher in the second operating mode.

[0025] In the first regeneration operating mode, the primary drying chamber—analogous to the first operating mode—can be individually supplied with compressed air. The drying chamber is supplied with compressed air in a counterflow pattern, thus enabling individual regeneration of the primary drying chamber. Regeneration of the primary drying chamber takes significantly less time compared to regenerating all drying chambers in most systems. At least the primary drying chamber can therefore be quickly made available again in the event of complete saturation. In a second regeneration operating mode, the primary and secondary drying chambers—analogous to the second operating mode—can be operated with sequential airflow.In this process, the drying chambers are supplied with compressed air, particularly in counterflow, thus enabling simultaneous regeneration of the at least two drying chambers that together form the drying bed.

[0026] In this context, drying performance refers to the quantity, defined by volume or weight, of moisture removed from compressed air per unit of time by adsorption.

[0027] Pneumatic switching of the primary and secondary drying chambers refers to the selective connection and separation of the two drying chambers. This separation or connection is effected depending on the switching state of at least one component of the pneumatic switching arrangement. An air dryer device according to the invention therefore enables the demand-based drying of compressed air, depending on operational requirements, with a sufficient degree of dryness, and simultaneously ensures a reduction in the duration of regeneration cycles.

[0028] 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.

[0029] Preferably, the primary and secondary drying chambers can each be supplied with compressed air independently, depending on operational requirements. The primary drying chamber has a primary inlet opening connected to the compressor connection via a primary inlet path, and the secondary drying chamber has a second inlet opening connected to the compressor connection via a secondary inlet path. Due to the independent primary and secondary inlet paths to the two drying chambers, it is possible for both the primary and secondary drying chambers to be operated independently – both during drying and regeneration. This increases the flexibility of the air dryer system. For example,If the drying granules in the primary drying chamber cannot adsorb any further moisture, the compressed air for dehumidification can also be directed to the secondary drying chamber via the secondary inlet path.

[0030] The air dryer device preferably includes a bypass line extending from the compressor connection to the supply connection, bypassing at least the primary and secondary drying chambers. This bypass line ensures that dehumidification of the compressed air supplied at the compressor connection is unnecessary at very high ambient temperatures. In this case, the compressed air does not need to pass through either the primary or secondary drying chamber, but can be routed directly to the supply connection via the bypass line. This prevents the saturation of the drying granules in the primary or secondary drying chamber from accelerating. Preferably, the primary drying chamber is connected to a vent connection via a primary vent path.Preferably, the secondary drying chamber is also connected to the venting port via a secondary venting path. Furthermore, a secondary venting path separate from the primary venting path makes it possible to regenerate the drying granules in the primary drying chamber and the drying granules in the secondary drying chamber independently of each other by applying compressed air in a counterflow, i.e., from the respective outlet opening to the respective inlet opening of the drying chamber.

[0031] Preferably, the primary inlet path comprises a (first) main line section of the pneumatic main line. This (first) main line section preferably extends from the compressor connection or the compressed air connection of the compressed air supply system to the inlet opening of the primary drying chamber. The air dryer unit—if it is installed as part of a compressed air supply system—is arranged in the pneumatic main line. The air dryer unit is connected to the pneumatic main line at the inlet side via the compressor connection and to the pneumatic main line at the outlet side via the supply connection. The primary inlet path is particularly preferably formed exclusively by the (first) main line section. Thus, the primary drying chamber is directly connected to the compressor connection via the (first) main line section, and the air dryer unit is more compact.

[0032] Preferably, the secondary inlet path comprises a (first) bypass section of the bypass line and a bypass connection line that branches off from the pneumatic main line at a (first) branch point and connects to the bypass line at a (first) connection point, the branch point being located between the primary drying chamber and the secondary drying chamber. The secondary inlet path allows the secondary drying chamber to be supplied with compressed air, bypassing the primary drying chamber. Because the secondary inlet path includes the bypass connection line that connects to the pneumatic main line between the primary and secondary drying chambers, the primary and secondary drying chambers can be arranged in series within the pneumatic main line.It is further preferred that the connection point is a first connection point and that the bypass line connects to the pneumatic main line at a second connection point between an outlet opening of the secondary drying chamber and the supply connection. Thus, compressed air can be routed from the primary drying chamber to the supply connection via the bypass connection line and the bypass line, bypassing the secondary drying chamber.

[0033] It is further preferred that the branch point is a first branch point and that the bypass line branches off from the main pneumatic line at a second branch point between an inlet opening of the primary drying chamber and the compressor connection.

[0034] It is further preferred that the pneumatic switching arrangement includes a bypass switching valve configured to selectively block and open the secondary inlet path and / or to selectively connect the secondary drying chamber to the supply connection. Thus, the secondary inlet path can be opened as needed, controlled via the bypass switching valve, allowing compressed air to flow from the compressor connection to the secondary drying chamber. Preferably, the bypass switching valve is arranged in the bypass connection line. The primary drying chamber can be connected to the supply connection via the bypass connection line and the bypass line itself. This connection can be opened or closed as required by a suitably arranged bypass switching valve.

[0035] Preferably, a primary air dryer protection valve is arranged in the primary inlet path between the compressor connection and the primary drying chamber. This valve is configured to selectively block and release the primary inlet path. The primary air dryer protection valve is preferably located in the main pneumatic line. Furthermore, a secondary air dryer protection valve is preferably arranged in the secondary vent path between the compressor connection and the secondary drying chamber. This secondary air dryer protection valve is also configured to selectively block and release the secondary inlet path. These air dryer protection valves prevent unintentional exposure of the primary or secondary drying chamber to compressed air from the compressor connection. This prevents unintentional saturation of the drying granules contained therein.Furthermore, the secondary air dryer protection valve allows the primary drying chamber to be connected to the secondary drying chamber on the outlet side as needed.

[0036] Preferably, the bypass switching valve is arranged at the first branch point and is designed as a 3 / 2-way valve. In this case, the bypass switching valve can combine the function of the secondary air dryer protection valve and the bypass switching valve. The bypass switching valve, designed as a 3 / 2-way valve, can selectively connect the bypass connection line to the secondary drying chamber on the inlet side and to the primary drying chamber on the outlet side, allowing compressed air from the bypass connection line to flow into the secondary drying chamber. Conversely, the bypass switching valve, designed as a 3 / 2-way valve, can selectively connect the inlet opening of the secondary drying chamber to the pneumatic main line, allowing compressed air from the primary drying chamber to flow into the secondary drying chamber.

[0037] According to an alternative preferred embodiment, the secondary air dryer protection valve is arranged between the first branch point and the secondary inlet opening of the secondary drying chamber and is designed as a 2 / 2-way valve.

[0038] Preferably, a primary non-return valve is arranged and configured between the supply connection and a primary outlet opening of the primary drying chamber to selectively supply the primary drying chamber with dried compressed air in counterflow from the primary outlet opening to the primary inlet opening.

[0039] Preferably, a secondary non-return valve is arranged and configured between the supply connection and a secondary outlet opening of the secondary drying chamber to selectively supply the secondary drying chamber with dried compressed air in a counterflow from the secondary outlet opening to the secondary inlet opening. A corresponding primary or secondary non-return valve prevents unintentional backflow of the compressed air supplied to the supply connection. This avoids uncontrolled air contamination (dead end) of the respective air dryer chamber. Furthermore, if regeneration of the drying granules in the respective drying chamber is required for operational reasons, corresponding non-return valves allow for the targeted routing of the dried compressed air to the drying chamber requiring regeneration.

[0040] Preferably, the pneumatic main line section is a first pneumatic main line section. More preferably, the pneumatic main line further comprises a second pneumatic main line section extending between the primary drying chamber and the first branch point. More preferably, the pneumatic main line comprises a third pneumatic main line section extending between the first branch point and the secondary inlet opening of the secondary drying chamber. More preferably, the pneumatic main line comprises a fourth pneumatic main line section extending between the secondary outlet opening of the secondary drying chamber and the supply connection. It is further preferred that the secondary air dryer protection valve is arranged in the third pneumatic main line section.Alternatively or additionally, the secondary non-return valve is preferably arranged in the fourth main line section. Alternatively or additionally, the primary non-return valve is arranged in the second main line section.

[0041] It is further preferred that the bypass switching valve is a first bypass switching valve and that the pneumatic switching arrangement further comprises a second bypass switching valve, which is arranged in the bypass line, in particular in the (first) bypass section, and / or wherein the pneumatic switching arrangement further comprises a third bypass switching valve, which is arranged in a second bypass section. Thus, in addition to the bypass switching valve in the bypass connection line, a second bypass switching valve is provided in the bypass line itself. Therefore, the bypass line can be selectively opened and closed by the second bypass switching valve, and thus compressed air can be routed from the compressor connection to the supply connection via the bypass line as needed, bypassing the primary and secondary drying chambers.

[0042] It is further preferred that the pneumatic switching arrangement is integrated at least partially into the housing part, wherein one, several or all of the following components are integrated at least partially into the housing part: the primary air dryer protection valve and the first pneumatic main line section,

[0043] the secondary air dryer protection valve, the second pneumatic main line section

[0044] the (first) bypass switching valve and the bypass connection line,

[0045] the second bypass switching valve and the bypass section,

[0046] the primary non-return valve and the second pneumatic main line section,

[0047] the secondary non-return valve and the fourth pneumatic main line section,

[0048] the third bypass switching valve and a second bypass section.

[0049] The invention solves the aforementioned problem in a second aspect by means of a compressed air supply system according to claim 12.

[0050] In particular, the invention proposes that such a compressed air supply system of a vehicle, especially a passenger car, comprises:

[0051] a compressed air connection for connecting to a compressor,

[0052] a compressed air supply connection for connecting a pneumatic system, a pneumatic main line which is set up to carry compressed air in a filling direction from the compressed air connection to the compressed air supply connection, and

[0053] An air dryer device arranged in the pneumatic main line according to the first aspect of the invention. Preferably, the compressor connection is connected to the pneumatic main line upstream of the air dryer device in the filling direction, and the supply connection is connected to the pneumatic main line downstream of the air dryer device in the filling direction.

[0054] By means of an air dryer device according to the first aspect of the invention, the compressed air supply system benefits from the advantages described above with regard to the first aspect of the invention. Advantages and preferred embodiments of the air dryer device according to the first aspect of the invention are therefore also advantages and preferred embodiments of the compressed air supply system according to the third aspect of the invention. The invention solves the aforementioned problem in a third aspect by means of a vehicle according to claim 13.

[0055] In particular, the invention proposes that such a vehicle, especially a passenger car, comprises a compressor, a compressed air supply system according to the first aspect of the invention, which is connected to the compressor via the compressed air connection, a pneumatic system connected to the compressed air supply connection of the compressed air supply system, and a control device at least for controlling the compressed air supply system. By means of a corresponding compressed air supply system, the vehicle benefits from the advantages described above with regard to the first aspect of the invention. The advantages and preferred embodiments of the air dryer according to the first aspect of the invention are therefore also advantages and preferred embodiments of the vehicle according to the third aspect of the invention.

[0056] Preferably, the vehicle further comprises one or more sensors that communicate with the control unit and preferably detect a temperature.

[0057] The invention solves the aforementioned problem in a fourth aspect by means of a method according to claim 14. Such a method for operating an air dryer unit of a compressed air supply system of a vehicle, in particular a passenger car, selectively in a drying mode and in a regeneration mode. Operation in drying mode comprises the steps:

[0058] Receiving compressed air from a compressor at a compressor connection, passing the compressed air through an air dryer from the compressor connection to a supply connection,

[0059] Control of the air dryer unit by a pneumatic switching arrangement for operation in the following drying modes:

[0060] a1) a (first) partial drying mode in which the compressed air from the compressor connection is passed solely through the primary drying chamber, drying chamber,

[0061] b1) a full drying mode in which the compressed air is sequentially passed from the compressor connection through the primary drying chamber and the secondary drying chamber, providing dried compressed air at the supply connection.

[0062] Furthermore, operation in regeneration mode includes the following steps:

[0063] Receiving dried compressed air at the supply connection,

[0064] Guiding the compressed air through the air dryer device in counterflow from the supply connection to a vent connection,

[0065] Control of the air dryer unit by the pneumatic switching arrangement for operation in the following regeneration modes for dehumidifying drying granules of the air dryer unit:

[0066] a2) a (first) partial regeneration mode in which compressed air, in particular the dried compressed air from the supply connection, is passed in counterflow only through the primary drying chamber,

[0067] b2) a full regeneration mode in which compressed air, in particular the dried compressed air from the supply connection, is passed sequentially in counterflow through the primary drying chamber and the secondary drying chamber,

[0068] Guiding moist compressed air from a primary inlet opening of the primary drying chamber or a secondary inlet opening of the secondary drying chamber to the vent connection.

[0069] Preferably, the partial drying mode is a first partial drying mode and the method further comprises controlling the air dryer device by a pneumatic switching arrangement for operation in:

[0070] a second partial drying mode in which the compressed air from the compressor connection is only passed through the secondary drying chamber.

[0071] Preferably, the partial regeneration mode is a first partial regeneration mode and the method further comprises controlling the air dryer device by a pneumatic switching arrangement for operation in:

[0072] a second partial regeneration mode in which the dried compressed air from the supply connection is guided in counterflow only through the secondary drying chamber.

[0073] It should be understood that the individual steps are preferably carried out by a control device depending on the control of the air dryer unit of the compressed air supply system and, in particular, its pneumatic switching device. Furthermore, according to the invention, the process steps can also be carried out sequentially, so that, for example, during drying operation, the partial drying mode, in particular the first or second partial drying mode, is carried out first as required, and, if a higher drying capacity is required, the full drying mode is then carried out.Likewise, in regeneration mode it is possible to sequentially first carry out the partial regeneration mode, in particular the first or second partial regeneration mode, and only carry out the full regeneration mode if the drying granules need to be regenerated in the primary drying chamber and in the secondary drying chamber.

[0074] By controlling the pneumatic switching arrangement to implement the corresponding operating modes, the method takes advantage of the benefits described above with regard to the first aspect of the invention. Advantages and preferred embodiments described with regard to the first aspect of the invention are also advantages and preferred embodiments according to the fourth aspect of the invention, and vice versa.

[0075] Preferably, the operation in the (first) partial drying mode comprises one, several or all of the following steps:

[0076] Releasing a primary inlet path, in particular a first main line section, through a primary air dryer protection valve of the pneumatic switching arrangement,

[0077] pneumatic connection of a primary outlet opening of the primary drying chamber to the supply connection at least by means of a first bypass switching valve of the pneumatic switching arrangement.

[0078] Preferably, the operation in the second partial drying mode includes one, several or all of the following steps:

[0079] Releasing a secondary inlet path, in particular a second main line section, through a secondary air dryer protection valve or a first bypass switching valve of the pneumatic switching arrangement,

[0080] Releasing the secondary inlet path, in particular a bypass connection line, through the first bypass switching valve; releasing the secondary inlet path, in particular a first bypass section, through a second bypass switching valve of the pneumatic switching arrangement; pneumatically connecting a secondary outlet opening of the secondary drying chamber to the supply connection through a secondary non-return valve of the pneumatic switching arrangement.

[0081] Preferably, the operation in full drying mode includes one, several or all of the following steps:

[0082] Releasing the primary inlet path, in particular the first main line section, through the primary air dryer protection valve,

[0083] Pneumatic connection of the primary outlet opening of the primary drying chamber to a secondary inlet opening of the secondary drying chamber via the first bypass switching valve or the secondary air dryer protection valve, pneumatic connection of the secondary outlet opening of the secondary drying chamber to the supply connection via the secondary non-return valve.

[0084] Preferably, the operation in (first) partial regeneration mode includes one, several or all of the following steps:

[0085] pneumatic connection of the primary outlet opening of the primary drying chamber to the supply connection at least through the first bypass switching valve,

[0086] Pneumatic connection of a primary vent path to the primary inlet opening of the primary drying chamber via the primary air dryer protection valve.

[0087] Preferably, the operation in the second partial regeneration mode includes one, several or all of the following steps:

[0088] pneumatic connection of the secondary outlet opening of the secondary drying chamber to the supply connection via the secondary non-return valve,

[0089] pneumatic connection of a secondary venting path to the secondary inlet opening of the secondary drying chamber via the secondary air dryer protection valve,

[0090] Blocking a (second) bypass section by means of a second bypass blocking valve. Preferably, operation in full regeneration mode comprises one, several, or all of the following steps:

[0091] Pneumatic connection of the secondary outlet opening of the secondary drying chamber to the supply connection via the secondary non-return valve

[0092] Pneumatic connection of the secondary inlet opening of the secondary drying chamber to the primary outlet opening of the primary drying chamber by means of the primary non-return valve and the secondary air dryer protection valve; pneumatic connection of the primary vent path to the primary inlet opening of the primary drying chamber by means of the primary air dryer protection valve.

[0093] In other words, the inventive method enables demand-based drying of the compressed air supplied at the supply connection by the air dryer device. The drying capacity in partial drying mode, particularly in the first partial drying mode or the second partial drying mode, corresponds in particular to 50% of the maximum drying capacity achievable in full drying mode. A 50% drying capacity is only achievable if the drying chamber volumes are the same and the moisture content of the drying granules contained therein is also the same.

[0094] The procedure preferably also includes operation in a bypass mode, comprising the following steps:

[0095] Receiving compressed air from the compressor at the compressor connection, guiding the compressed air through the air dryer unit from the compressor connection to the supply connection,

[0096] The pneumatic switching arrangement controls the air dryer device in such a way that the compressed air is routed to the supply connection via the bypass line, bypassing the primary and secondary drying chambers.

[0097] In bypass mode, the compressed air can therefore be supplied undried at the supply connection. This is particularly advantageous at very high ambient temperatures, which eliminate the risk of freezing, as the saturation of the drying granules in the drying chambers is not further accelerated.

[0098] Preferably, the method further comprises monitoring at least one state variable, wherein, during drying operation, depending on the monitored state variable, the partial drying mode, in particular the first partial drying mode or the second partial drying mode, or the full drying mode is carried out by appropriately controlling the pneumatic switching arrangement. The monitored state variable is preferably an ambient temperature and / or an ambient air humidity. Additional optional state variables are the air dryer pressures and / or the directly measured moisture contents (saturation levels) by the temperature and / or humidity sensors (not shown) in the air dryer chambers. The air dryer pressures can be measured with one or more pressure sensors.Further parameters preferably include, indirectly, monitoring of the compressor's runtime and / or the periods in which the partial regeneration mode, in particular the first partial regeneration mode or the second partial regeneration mode, or the full regeneration mode was carried out.

[0099] Using these state variables, a simulation algorithm can calculate or evaluate the current moisture loads of the air dryer chambers and initiate the corresponding, necessary switching sequences.

[0100] Thus, the saturation of the drying granules in the primary drying chamber and / or the secondary drying chamber is at least indirectly monitored, and depending on the monitored saturation, either the first partial regeneration mode, in particular the first partial regeneration mode or the second partial regeneration mode, or the full regeneration mode is carried out during regeneration operation, and the pneumatic switching arrangement is controlled accordingly.

[0101] The pneumatic switching arrangement is preferably controlled by the control unit connected to the compressor and / or at least one sensor via a signal conductor, such that

[0102] The partial regeneration mode is activated in the event that the primary drying chamber and the secondary drying chamber exceed a predefined saturation limit, in particular until a second predefined saturation limit is reached, which is smaller than the first predefined saturation limit.

[0103] - the primary drying chamber has a higher saturation than the secondary drying chamber, and the saturation of the secondary drying chamber is below a predefined saturation limit, so that the primary drying chamber is regenerated,

[0104] - the secondary drying chamber has a higher saturation than the primary drying chamber and the saturation of the primary drying chamber is below a predefined saturation limit, so that the secondary drying chamber is regenerated,

[0105] in the case of a system venting, especially a small one, of the pneumatic system with a partial volume flow, i.e., when dried compressed air is supplied at the supply connection by the pneumatic system, and preferably

[0106] at least one sensor indicates a temperature below a first temperature limit and an ambient humidity below a humidity limit, and / or

[0107] a compressed air request from a connected pneumatic system indicates a drying performance below a maximum drying performance,

[0108] the full regeneration mode is activated in the event that

[0109] the primary drying chamber and the secondary drying chamber have identical saturation,

[0110] the saturation of the primary drying chamber and the secondary drying chamber is below a predefined saturation limit, in the case of a, in particular large, system venting of the pneumatic system with a full volume flow, i.e. when dried compressed air is supplied at the supply connection by the pneumatic system, and preferably

[0111] at least one sensor indicates a temperature at least equal to a first temperature limit and an ambient humidity SH at least equal to a humidity limit, and / or

[0112] at least one sensor indicates a temperature at least equal to a first temperature limit and a humidity SH of the system at least equal to a humidity limit, and / or a compressed air request from a connected pneumatic system indicates a drying capacity or a maximum drying capacity,

[0113] the partial drying mode is activated in the event that

[0114] Compressed air is supplied at the compressor connection by the compressor, and at least one sensor indicates a temperature below a first temperature limit and an ambient humidity below a humidity limit (corresponding to a water quantity below a limit), and / or

[0115] a compressed air request from a connected pneumatic system indicates a drying performance below a maximum drying performance, and / or at least one sensor indicates a temperature below a first temperature limit and an ambient humidity below a humidity limit, and / or

[0116] a compressed air request from a connected pneumatic system indicates a drying performance below a maximum drying performance,

[0117] the full drying mode is activated in the event that

[0118] Compressed air is supplied at the compressor connection by the compressor, and at least one sensor indicates a temperature at least equal to a first temperature limit and an ambient or system humidity at least equal to a humidity limit, and / or

[0119] a compressed air request from a connected pneumatic system indicates a drying capacity and a maximum drying capacity,

[0120] the bypass operation is activated in the event that

[0121] Compressed air is supplied at the compressor connection by the compressor, and at least one sensor indicates a temperature at least equal to a second temperature limit that is higher than the first temperature limit, and / or

[0122] A compressed air request from a connected pneumatic system does not indicate the required drying capacity.

[0123] Embodiments of the invention are now described below with reference to the drawings and to 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 information on 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. For specified dimensioning ranges, values ​​lying within the stated limits are also disclosed as limit values ​​and may be used and claimed as desired.

[0124] 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:

[0125] FIG. 1 : a vehicle with a pneumatic system according to a preferred embodiment;

[0126] FIG. 2: a pneumatic system with a compressed air supply system according to a preferred embodiment;

[0127] FIG. 3: an air dryer device for the compressed air supply system according to FIG. 2 in a first preferred embodiment;

[0128] FIG. 4: an air dryer device for the compressed air supply system according to FIG. 2 in a second preferred embodiment;

[0129] FIG. 5a to FIG. 5g: a compressed air supply system according to a first preferred

[0130] Embodiment; FIG. 6a to FIG. 6e: a compressed air supply system according to a second preferred embodiment;

[0131] FIG. 7: a compressed air supply system according to a third preferred embodiment with a compressed air supply system designed for a process of FIG. 9;

[0132] FIG. 8: a compressed air supply system in a fourth preferred embodiment with a compressed air supply system designed for a process of FIG. 9;

[0133] FIG. 9: a method for operating an air dryer device according to FIG. 2 to FIG. 8;

[0134] FIG. 10a: preferred partial steps of the (first) partial drying mode for the process according to FIG. 9;

[0135] FIG. 10b: Preferred partial steps of the second partial drying mode for the process according to FIG. 9:

[0136] FIG. 10c: preferred partial steps of the complete drying mode for the process according to FIG. 9;

[0137] FIG. 11a: preferred partial steps of the (first) partial regeneration mode for the process according to FIG. 9;

[0138] FIG. 11b: preferred partial steps of the second partial regeneration mode for the process according to FIG. 9;

[0139] FIG. 11c: preferred partial steps of the full regeneration mode for the process according to FIG. 9, and FIG. 11d: preferred partial steps of the bypass operation for the process according to FIG.

[0140] 9.

[0141] FIG. 1 shows a schematic representation of a vehicle FZ. The vehicle FZ is, in particular, a passenger car P, which includes a pneumatic system PS and a control unit 60. The control unit 60 is configured to control the pneumatic system PS.

[0142] FIG. 2 shows an exemplary pneumatic system PS with a compressor 100, a compressed air supply system 200 and a pneumatic system 300. A corresponding pneumatic system PS is also referred to as a "Quick Release System".

[0143] The compressor 100 is equipped with an intake port 0 for drawing compressed air DL from the environment U via an intake line 10 in which an air filter 0.1 is arranged. The compressor 100 comprises a reciprocating piston unit 110 and an electric motor 120 for driving the reciprocating piston unit. The compressor 100 is configured to supply the compressed air DL, compressed by the reciprocating piston unit 110, to a compressed air port 1. The compressed air supply system 200 is connected to the compressed air port 1 to receive the compressed compressed air DL.

[0144] The compressed air supply system 200 has, in addition to the compressed air connection 1, a compressed air supply connection 2, to which the pneumatic system 300 is connected for receiving compressed air DL.

[0145] The compressed air supply system 200 is designed to supply the pneumatic system 300 with compressed air DL depending on a compressed air requirement DA provided by the pneumatic system 300, in particular with regard to a drying capacity (TL).

[0146] A pneumatic main line 21 extends between the compressed air connection 1 and the compressed air supply connection 2, through which compressed air DL is guided in a filling direction B to the compressed air supply connection 2. An air dryer LT is arranged in the pneumatic main line 21, which is configured to dry the compressed air DL guided through the pneumatic main line 21. Furthermore, the compressed air supply system 200 preferably includes a vent connection 3, through which system venting – i.e., compressed air DL from the compressed air supply system – can be released to the environment U. The vented air is depressurized in a so-called steady-state phase – i.e., shortly after opening – due to the pressure reduction caused by the upstream throttle. A vent line 13 branches off from the pneumatic main line 21 between the compressed air connection 1 and the air dryer unit LT and extends to the vent connection 3.A throttle D is also arranged between the air dryer unit LT and the compressed air supply connection 2.

[0147] The compressed air supply system 200 also includes a venting valve arrangement EV, which is designed for the selective release of the venting line 13.

[0148] The venting valve assembly EV comprises a venting valve EV1, which is designed here as a pneumatically actuated 2 / 2-way valve and is arranged in the venting line 13. Furthermore, the venting valve assembly EV comprises a pilot valve SEV2, to which a pilot pressure line 14 is assigned, which connects to the pneumatic main line 21 between the air dryer unit LT and the throttle D. The pilot valve SEV2 is configured to apply a pilot pressure pS to the venting valve EV1 by supplying compressed air DL from the pneumatic main line 21, in order to move it from the switching position shown in FIG. 2 to an enabling position in which the venting line 13 can be pneumatically traversed in a venting direction E, so that compressed air DL can be discharged to the environment U via the venting port 3.This compressed air DL, which is vented as venting air, is pressureless during the so-called steady-state phase, as explained above. Furthermore, a valve vent line 15 is assigned to the pilot valve EV2, through which compressed air DL at the control pressure DS, which was used to actuate the venting valve EV1, can be vented into the environment U.

[0149] To vent the pneumatic system 300 during system venting SL, dried compressed air DL' is fed in the venting direction E, i.e., in counterflow G against the filling direction B, as a partial volume flow TV or as a full volume flow W from the compressed air supply connection 2 into the pneumatic main line 21 and first flows through the throttle D. The throttle D expands the compressed air DL flowing in the venting direction E and thus reduces its relative humidity before the compressed air DL flows into the air dryer unit LT. In the air dryer unit LT, the dry compressed air DL, flowing in counterflow G – i.e., from an outlet opening 216 to an inlet opening 215 of the drying chamber 210 – absorbs some of the moisture bound in a drying granulate 212 (see FIG. 3 and FIG. 4).

[0150] The compressed air DL returned in the venting direction E is then guided via the venting line 13 to the venting connection 3 and released to the environment U.

[0151] The pneumatic system 300 is preferably a sensor cleaning unit 301 or a level control device 302. In the case of a sensor cleaning device 301, compressed air DL for regenerating the air dryer device LT does not flow back from the actuators of the sensor cleaning device 301 itself, but can be supplied, for example, by a separately filled reservoir (not shown). Furthermore, separate piping arrangements of the compressed air supply system or the pneumatic system for returning dried compressed air to the pneumatic main line 21 in counterflow G are possible. Corresponding arrangements are shown, for example, in the German patent applications with the application numbers 102023 119856.4, 102023119858.0, 102023 119855.6, 102023 119857.2 and 102023 119 859.9.

[0152] In a level control system 302, dried compressed air is returned to the compressed air supply system 200 in the venting direction E for the purpose of venting, for example, air spring bellows (not shown).

[0153] FIG. 3 shows a first embodiment of the compressed air supply system DS with a compressor 100 and a compressed air supply unit 200 connected to the compressor 100, which includes an air dryer unit LT according to a preferred embodiment. Identical or similar components have identical reference numerals in FIGS. 2 and 3, and reference is made to the description of the preceding embodiments. The air dryer unit LT comprises an air dryer unit LE with a plurality of drying chambers 210, each filled with a drying granulate filling 212 (see FIGS. 7 and 8). A primary drying chamber 210.1 and a secondary drying chamber 210.2 are shown here. Further drying chambers may be present.

[0154] The air dryer unit LT has a compressor connection 1.1 for connecting to the compressor 100 or the compressed air connection 1 (see FIG. 2) and a supply connection 2.1 for supplying compressed air to the compressed air supply connection 2 via the pneumatic main line 21. The air dryer unit LT also includes a vent line connection 3.1 for connecting to the vent line 13.

[0155] Compressed air DL is received from compressor 100 via compressor connection 1.1 to fill the pneumatic system 300 (see FIG. 2). This compressed air DL is then passed through at least the primary drying chamber 210.1 of the majority of drying chambers for drying and is made available at supply connection 2.1 for supplying the pneumatic system 300 via compressed air supply connection 2.

[0156] For the regeneration of the air dryer unit LE, dry compressed air DL is supplied at the supply connection 2.1 and guided in the venting direction E (see FIG. 2) through at least the primary drying chamber 210.1 of the majority of drying chambers and via the vent line connection 3.1 into the vent line 13 (see FIG. 2) and from there to the vent connection 3 and released to the environment U.

[0157] In the pneumatic main line 21, a condensation drying device 40 is preferably arranged between the compressed air connection 1 and the compressor connection 1.1. The condensation drying device 40 comprises a condensation dryer 41 for condensing moisture from the compressed air compressed by the compressor 100 and a separator 42 for draining the condensed moisture into the environment. Furthermore, the condensation drying device 40 preferably includes a check valve 43, which is configured to prevent backflow of compressed air from the compressor connection. Preferably, an air cooling system 50 is also provided, which is configured to cool the compressor 100 as required.

[0158] The primary drying chamber 210.1 can be individually supplied with compressed air DL, with the primary inlet opening 215.1 being connected to the compressor connection 1.1 via a primary inlet path 211.1. Furthermore, the secondary drying chamber 210.2 can preferably also be individually supplied with compressed air DL, and the second inlet opening 215.2 is connected to the compressor connection 1.1 via a secondary inlet path 211.2.

[0159] A pressure sensor U / P is preferably arranged in the pneumatic main line 21, which is configured to monitor the system pressure pS.

[0160] Furthermore, the air dryer unit LT includes a bypass line 22, which is designed to connect the compressor connection 1.1 to the supply connection 2.1, bypassing the primary drying chamber 210.1 and the secondary drying chamber 210.2.

[0161] A bypass connection line 22B branches off at a first branch point Z1 from the pneumatic main line 21 between the primary drying chamber 210.1 and the secondary drying chamber 210.2 and connects to the bypass line 22 at a first connection point A1.

[0162] The bypass line 22 branches off from the pneumatic main line 21 at a second branch point Z2 between the compressor connection 1.1 and the primary drying chamber 210.1 and connects to the pneumatic main line 21 at a second connection point A2 between the secondary drying chamber 210.2 and the supply connection 2.1.

[0163] The pneumatic main line 21 comprises a first to fourth pneumatic main line section 21A-21D.

[0164] The first pneumatic main line section 21 A extends from the compressor connection 1.1 to the primary inlet opening 215.1. The second pneumatic main line section 21 B extends between the primary drying chamber 210.1 and the primary inlet opening 215.1 and the first branch point Z1. The third pneumatic main line section 21 C extends between the first branch point Z1 and the secondary inlet opening 215.2 of the secondary drying chamber 210.2. The fourth pneumatic main line section 21 D extends between the secondary outlet opening 216.2 of the secondary drying chamber 210.2 and the supply connection 2.1.

[0165] The primary inlet path 211.1 is preferably assigned at least the first pneumatic main line section 21 A.

[0166] The secondary inlet path 211.2 preferably includes a portion of the bypass line 22, namely a first bypass section 22A, which extends between the second branch point Z2 and the first connection point A1, as well as the bypass connection line 22B. Furthermore, the secondary inlet path 211.2 includes the third pneumatic main line section 21C, which extends between the first branch point Z1 and the secondary inlet opening 215.2 of the secondary drying chamber 210.2.

[0167] The primary drying chamber 210.1 is connected to the vent connection 3 and, in particular, to the vent line 13 (see FIG. 2) via a primary vent path 13.1 and a first vent line connection 3.1. The secondary drying chamber 210.2 is connected to the vent connection 3 and, in particular, to the vent line 13 (see FIG. 2) via a secondary vent path 13.2 and a second vent line connection 3.2. The second vent connection 3.2 serves as a vent connection for the compressor 100 for a pressureless start-up and / or as a singular vent connection 3.2 for the secondary drying chamber 210.2 and / or as a redundant vent connection 3.2 from both drying chambers 210.1 , 210.2.

[0168] In the primary venting path 13.1, the venting valve EV1, which is a first venting valve in this case, is arranged, and in the secondary venting path 13.2, a second venting valve EV2 is arranged, so that the primary venting path 13.1 can be selectively closed and opened independently of the secondary venting path 13.2. Furthermore, the air dryer device LT comprises a pneumatic switching arrangement 230. The pneumatic switching arrangement 230 is configured to control the distribution of compressed air DL and the pressurization of the individual drying chambers 210.1, 210.2, or the plurality of drying chambers 210 (see FIG. 7 and FIG. 8).

[0169] The pneumatic switching arrangement 230 comprises at least one bypass switching valve 232. The bypass switching valve 232 is configured to selectively block and release the secondary inlet path 211.2. Furthermore, the bypass switching valve 232 is configured to selectively connect the primary drying chamber 210.1 to the supply port 2.1.

[0170] Furthermore, the pneumatic switching arrangement 230 includes a primary air dryer protection valve 238, which is assigned to the primary drying chamber 210.1 and is configured for selectively blocking and releasing the primary inlet path 211.1. The primary air dryer protection valve 238 is arranged in the first pneumatic main line section 21A between the compressor connection 1.1 and the primary drying chamber 210.1.

[0171] Furthermore, the pneumatic switching arrangement 230 includes a secondary air dryer protection valve 231, which is configured analogously to the selective blocking and releasing of the secondary inlet path 211.2 and is arranged between the compressor connection 1.1 and the secondary drying chamber 210.2. The secondary air dryer protection valve 231 is specifically located in the third pneumatic main line section 21C, i.e., between the first branch point Z1 and the secondary drying chamber 210.2.

[0172] The secondary air dryer protection valve 231 is designed as a 2 / 2-way valve 235.

[0173] The bypass switching valve 232 is a first bypass switching valve 232, and the pneumatic switching arrangement 230 further comprises a second bypass switching valve 237, which is arranged in the bypass line 22, in particular in the first bypass section 22A. The second bypass switching valve 237 is configured for selectively blocking and releasing the bypass line 22, such that compressed air DL – not previously dried by the air drying unit LT – can be routed from the compressor connection 1.1 to the supply connection 2.1 via the bypass line 22 as required.

[0174] The secondary air dryer protection valve 231 and the second pneumatic main line section 21 B and / or the first bypass switching valve 232 and the bypass connection line 22B and / or the second bypass switching valve 237 and the first bypass section 22A are preferably integrated into the housing 220 (see FIG. 7 ).

[0175] To operate the air dryer LT in the (first) partial drying mode (see FIG. 9) such that only the primary drying chamber 210.1 is to be operated individually with pneumatic flow, compressed air DL is fed into the primary drying chamber 210.1 via the compressor connection 1.1 and enters the second main line section 21 B. In this case, the secondary air dryer protection valve 231 blocks the second main line section 21 B, so that the compressed air DL is not fed further into the secondary drying chamber 210.2. Instead, the compressed air DL flows via the bypass connection line 22B, which branches off at the first branch point Z1 and is released by the bypass switching valve 232, to the supply connection 2.1.

[0176] For sequential flow through the primary drying chamber 210.1 and the secondary drying chamber 210.2 in full drying mode (see FIG. 9), compressed air DL is fed from the compressor connection 1.1 into the primary drying chamber 210.1 and from there via the second main line section 21 B, which is released by the secondary air dryer protection valve 231, into the secondary drying chamber 210.2. The first bypass switching valve 232 blocks the bypass connection line 22B between the first branch point Z1 and the first connection point A1.

[0177] In a preferred embodiment – ​​as shown in FIG. 3 – the compressed air DL flows through the secondary drying chamber 210.2 in a direction opposite to the flow direction in the primary drying chamber 210.1. The compressed air DL leaves the secondary drying chamber 210.2 via its outlet opening 216.2 and is guided to the supply connection 2.1 via the fourth main line section 21D. It is further preferred that the air dryer device LT includes sensors 240 for recording operating parameters S. These operating parameters S are preferably provided to the control unit 60 (see FIG. 1) and include, for example, a temperature ST, a pressure signal SP, a humidity SH, or a dew point Tp. The control unit 60 is then configured to provide control signals Sv for controlling the pneumatic switching arrangement 230 based on the detected operating parameters S.The sensors 240 are preferably a temperature sensor, a pressure sensor, a humidity sensor or a dew point sensor.

[0178] The interaction of the pneumatic switching arrangement 230, the at least one sensor 240 and the control unit 60 is explained below with reference to the operating modes described in FIG. 5a to FIG. 6e.

[0179] The pneumatic switching arrangement 230 is controlled by the control unit 60, which is connected to the compressor 100 and / or at least one sensor 240 via a signal conductor, such that

[0180] The partial regeneration mode PR1 is activated in the event that

[0181] - the primary drying chamber 210.1 and the secondary drying chamber 210.2 exceed a predefined saturation limit SAG, in particular until a second predefined saturation limit SAG2 is reached, which is smaller than the first predefined saturation limit SAG,

[0182] - the primary drying chamber 210.1 has a higher saturation SA than the secondary drying chamber 210.2, and the saturation SA of the secondary drying chamber 210.2 is below a predefined saturation limit SAG, so that the primary drying chamber 210.1 is regenerated, - the secondary drying chamber 210.2 has a higher saturation SA than the primary drying chamber 210.1, and the saturation of the primary drying chamber 210.1 is below a predefined saturation limit SAG, so that the secondary drying chamber 210.2 is regenerated,

[0183] in the case of a, in particular small, system vent (SL) of the pneumatic system 300 with a partial volume flow, i.e. when dried compressed air DL' is supplied at the supply connection 2.1 by the pneumatic system 300, and preferably the at least one sensor 240 indicates a temperature ST below a first temperature limit GT1 and an ambient humidity SH U below a humidity limit GH (corresponding to a water quantity below a limit value), and / or

[0184] A compressed air request DA from a connected pneumatic system indicates a drying performance below a maximum drying performance,

[0185] The VR full regeneration mode is activated in the event that

[0186] the primary drying chamber 210.1 and the secondary drying chamber 210.2 have an identical saturation S,

[0187] the saturation of the primary drying chamber 210.1 and the secondary drying chamber 210.2 is below a predefined saturation limit SAG,

[0188] in the case of a system venting (SL) of the pneumatic system 300, especially a large one, with a full volume flow, i.e. when dried compressed air DL' is provided at the supply connection 2.1 by the pneumatic system 300.

[0189] preferably

[0190] dried compressed air DL' is supplied at supply port 2.1 by the pneumatic system 300, and

[0191] which at least one sensor 240 displays a temperature ST at least equal to a first temperature limit GT1 and an ambient humidity SH U at least equal to a humidity limit GH, and / or

[0192] A compressed air request DA from a connected pneumatic system 300 indicates a drying capacity TL and a maximum drying capacity TLmax.

[0193] the partial drying mode PT1 is activated in the event that

[0194] Compressed air DL at compressor connection 1.1 is supplied by compressor 100, and

[0195] at least one sensor 240 indicates a temperature ST below a first temperature limit GT1 and an ambient humidity SH U below a humidity limit GH (corresponds to a water quantity below a limit value), and / or

[0196] a compressed air request DA of a connected pneumatic system indicates a drying performance below a maximum drying performance, and / or at least one sensor 240 indicates a temperature ST below a first temperature limit GT1 and an ambient humidity SH U below a humidity limit GH, and / or

[0197] A compressed air request DA from a connected pneumatic system 300 indicates a drying capacity TL below a maximum drying capacity TLmax, and the full drying mode VT is activated in the event that

[0198] Compressed air DL at compressor connection 1.1 is supplied by compressor 100, and

[0199] which at least one sensor 240 displays a temperature ST at least equal to a first temperature limit GT1 and an ambient humidity SH U at least equal to a humidity limit GH, and / or

[0200] A compressed air request DA from a connected pneumatic system 300 indicates a drying capacity TL and a maximum drying capacity TLmax.

[0201] the bypass operation is activated in the event that

[0202] Compressed air DL at compressor connection 1.1 is supplied by compressor 100, and

[0203] at least one sensor 240 displays a temperature ST at least equal to a second temperature limit GT2 that is higher than the first temperature limit GT1, and / or

[0204] A compressed air request DA from a connected pneumatic system 300 does not indicate a required drying capacity TL.

[0205] Preferably, a third bypass switching valve 237.2 is arranged in the second bypass section 22C.

[0206] FIG. 4 shows another embodiment of the air dryer device LT. Identical or similar components in FIG. 3 and 4 have identical reference numerals, and reference is made to the preceding description of the embodiment according to FIG. 5, with only the differences between the two embodiments being discussed.

[0207] The air dryer device LT according to FIG. 4 preferably has a primary non-return valve 239 arranged in the second pneumatic main line section 21 B, i.e., between the primary outlet opening 216.1 of the primary drying chamber 210.1 and the first branch point Z1. Thus, the primary non-return valve 239 prevents unintentional flow of compressed air DL against the filling direction B, i.e., in counterflow G (see FIG. 2), through the primary drying chamber 210.1. Such unintentional supply of compressed air DL in counterflow G could occur, for example, if only the secondary drying chamber 210.2 is to be supplied with compressed air DL or regenerated in counterflow G.

[0208] Furthermore, a secondary non-return valve 233 is arranged between the secondary drying chamber 210.2, and in particular its second outlet opening 216.2, and the supply connection 2.1. The secondary non-return valve 233 is specifically located between the second connection point A2 and the secondary drying chamber 210.2. The fourth pneumatic main line section 21D is blocked between the second connection point A2 and the secondary outlet opening 216.2 by the secondary non-return valve 233. This effectively prevents, for example, moist compressed air flowing via the bypass line 22 to the supply connection 2.1 from unintentionally being forced backflow G through the secondary drying chamber 210.2.

[0209] The first and second bypass switching valves 232, 237 and the non-return valve 233 are preferably 2 / 2-way valves. It should be understood that alternative configurations of the pneumatic switching valves, for example, a combination in a 3 / 2-way valve, are also within the scope of the invention. It should further be understood that both the primary non-return valve 239 and the secondary non-return valve 233 are optional. The switching valves or pneumatic switching valves described within the scope of the invention are electrically, magnetically, or pneumatically actuated valves for controlling the distribution and guidance of compressed air in the system, i.e., for pneumatic control.

[0210] Preferably, a third bypass switching valve 237.2 is arranged in the second bypass section 22C.

[0211] FIGS. 5a to 5g show another embodiment of the LT air dryer device. Similar or identical components are shown in FIGS. 2 to 4 and FIGS. 5a to 5g.

[0212] 5g identical reference numerals and reference is made to the description of the preceding embodiments according to FIG. 3 and FIG. 4, and only differences between the embodiments are discussed.

[0213] In FIGS. 3 and FIG. 4, the throttle D was arranged between the supply port 2.1 and the compressed air supply port 2 as a basic central throttle and was designed to expand the compressed air flowing in counterflow G through the pneumatic main line 21. By expanding the compressed air DL, its relative humidity decreases, and the compressed air DL can thus absorb more moisture from the drying granules 212 (see FIGS. 3 and FIG. 4) from the primary drying chamber 210.1 or the secondary drying chamber 210.2.

[0214] In contrast, the air dryer device LT in FIGS. 5a to FIGS. 5g has a first throttle D1, which is arranged in the fourth pneumatic main line section 21D. Thus, the second throttle is arranged between the secondary outlet opening 216.2 of the secondary drying chamber 210.2 and the supply connection 2.1. The compressed air DL, which is guided in counterflow G through the fourth pneumatic main line section 21D for the regeneration of the secondary drying chamber 210.2, is therefore depressurized before passing through the secondary drying chamber 210.2.

[0215] Furthermore, a second throttle D2 is arranged between the supply port 2.1 and the primary outlet port 216.1 of the primary drying chamber 210.1. The second throttle D2 is preferably arranged either in a second bypass section 22C, the bypass connection line 22B, or the second pneumatic main line section 21B. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 5a to 5g, the second throttle D2 is arranged in the bypass connection line 22B. Thus, the second throttle D2 does not impede the flow of compressed air DL in the bypass line 22, but simultaneously ensures that the compressed air DL, which is guided in counterflow G through the primary drying chamber 210.1, is depressurized.

[0216] FIG. 5a to FIG. 5g show the air dryer device in regeneration mode RB and in drying mode TB in various operating modes as well as in bypass mode BB.

[0217] FIG. 5a shows the air drying device LT in drying mode TB, where a first partial drying mode PT1 is carried out. In the first partial drying mode PT1, the compressed air DL is dried solely by the primary drying chamber 210.1 and, bypassing the secondary drying chamber 210.2, is routed to the supply connection 2.1. The primary air dryer protection valve 238 is actuated to release the first pneumatic main line section 21A in the filling direction B upstream of the primary inlet opening 215.1 of the primary drying chamber 210.1. The control is preferably carried out by the control unit 60. The second pneumatic main line section 21 B is further released by the non-return valve 239, which was also controlled by the control unit 60 to switch to the corresponding switching position.The third pneumatic main line section 21 C is further blocked by the secondary air dryer protection valve 231. To bypass the secondary drying chamber 210.2, the first bypass switching valve 232 is activated by the control unit 60 to release the bypass connection line 22B and the third bypass switching valve 237.2 to release the bypass connection line 22C.

[0218] Furthermore, the second bypass switching valve 237 blocks the first bypass section 22A of the bypass line 22.

[0219] Similarly, the first partial drying mode can also be carried out with the air dryer devices FT shown in FIG. 3 and FIG. 5.

[0220] FIG. 5b shows the drying operation TB in a second partial drying mode PT2. The primary air dryer protection valve 238 blocks the first pneumatic main line section 21A and the preferably provided primary non-return valve 239 blocks the second pneumatic main line section 21B. To bypass the primary drying chamber 210.1, the first bypass switching valve 232 releases the bypass connection line 22B and the second bypass switching valve 237 releases the first bypass section 22A.

[0221] Preferably, a third bypass switching valve 237.2 is arranged in the second bypass section 22C, which is configured to block the second bypass section 22C in the second partial drying mode PT2. Thus, the compressed air flows exclusively via the secondary inlet path 211.2 to the secondary drying chamber 210.2 and is dried by it before being supplied at the supply port 2.1. If the optional third bypass switching valve 237.2 is not provided, only the (first) partial drying mode PT1 is carried out.

[0222] FIG. 5c shows the air drying unit LT in a full drying mode VT. The bypass line 22 is blocked by the second bypass switching valve 237. The first air dryer protection valve 238, the second air dryer protection valve 231, as well as the first non-return valve 239 and the second non-return valve 233, release the pneumatic main line 21, so that compressed air DL, which is supplied at compressor port 1.1, is dried through the primary drying chamber 210.1 and the secondary drying chamber 210.2 before being supplied at supply port 2.1.

[0223] FIG. 5d shows a (first) partial regeneration mode PR1. In the (first) partial regeneration mode PR1, the third bypass switching valve 237.2 is opened to release the bypass connection line 22C, the bypass connection line 22B is released by the first bypass switching valve 232, and the second pneumatic main line section 21B is released by the primary non-return valve 239, so that compressed air can flow countercurrently G (see FIG. 2) from the supply port 2.1 through the primary drying chamber 210.1 and from there via the primary venting path 13.1, which is released by the first venting valve EV1, to the venting port 3. The bypass line 22 is blocked by the second bypass switching valve 237 and the pneumatic main line between the first branch point Z1 and the secondary drying chamber 210.2 is blocked by the secondary air dryer protection valve 231.Thus, in the (first) partial regeneration mode PR1, only the primary drying chamber 210.1 or the drying granules 212 contained therein are regenerated.

[0224] FIG. 5e shows the air drying unit LT in regeneration mode RB, where a second partial regeneration mode PR2 is performed. The primary air dryer protection valve 238 blocks the first pneumatic main line section 21 A, and the primary non-return valve 239 blocks the second pneumatic main line section 21 B. The third pneumatic main line section 21 C is released by the secondary air dryer protection valve 231, and the fourth pneumatic main line section 21 D is released by the secondary non-return valve 233, so that compressed air from the supply port 2.1 is routed in counterflow G (see FIG. 2) exclusively through the secondary drying chamber 210.2 and via the secondary venting path 13.2, which is released by the second venting valve EV2, to the venting port 3.

[0225] The optional third bypass switching valve 237.2 blocks the second bypass line section 22C, so that the compressed air DL from the supply connection 2.1 can only be guided in counterflow G through the secondary drying chamber 210.2.

[0226] If the optional third bypass switching valve 237.2 is not provided, only the (first) partial regeneration mode PR1 is carried out.

[0227] FIG. 5f shows the air dryer unit LT in regeneration mode RB, where a full regeneration mode VR is performed. In full regeneration mode VR, compressed air DL from supply port 2.1 is fed in counterflow G (see FIG. 2) through the primary drying chamber 210.1 and the secondary drying chamber 210.2. The bypass line 22 is blocked by the second bypass switching valve 237 and the third bypass switching valve 237.2. The first air dryer protection valve 238, the second air dryer protection valve 231, as well as the first non-return valve 239 and the second non-return valve 233, release the pneumatic main line 21, so that compressed air DL from supply port 2.1 can be fed through the primary drying chamber 210.1 and the secondary drying chamber 210.2.

[0228] FIG. 5g shows a bypass operation BB in which the primary air dryer protection valve 238 blocks the first pneumatic main line section 21A and the secondary air dryer protection valve 231 blocks the third pneumatic main line section 21C. The second bypass switching valve 237 and the third bypass switching valve 237.2 release the bypass line 22, so that undried compressed air DL from the compressor connection 1.1 can flow exclusively via the bypass line 22 to the supply connection 2.1. This bypasses the primary drying chamber 210.1 and the secondary drying chamber 210.2. FIG. 6a to FIG. 6e show another embodiment of the air dryer device LT. Identical or similar components are shown in FIG. 3 and FIG. 6a to FIG. 6e. 6e identical reference numerals and reference is made to the preceding description of the embodiment shown in FIG. 3.

[0229] The bypass switching valve 232 is designed as a 3 / 2-way valve 236 in FIGS. 6a to FIG. 6e. In this configuration, the secondary air dryer protection valve 231, which connects the primary drying chamber 210.1 and the secondary drying chamber 210.2 as needed, and the third (optional) bypass switching valve 237.2 for releasing the bypass connection line 22C can be omitted. The 3 / 2-way valve 236 is designed, in the switching position shown in FIG. 6a, to connect the primary outlet opening 216.1 of the primary drying chamber 210.1 to the supply connection 2.1 via the bypass connection line 22B and the second bypass line section 22C. This occurs particularly in partial drying mode PT1. In partial drying mode PT1, compressed air DL' dried by the primary drying chamber 210.1 is supplied at supply connection 2.1, bypassing the secondary drying chamber 210.2.

[0230] In the second switching position shown in FIG. 6b, the 3 / 2-way valve 236 is configured to connect the primary drying chamber 210.1 with the secondary drying chamber 210.2 in such a way that the compressed air DL supplied at the compressor port 1.1 first passes through the primary drying chamber 210.1 and then through the secondary drying chamber 210.2.

[0231] Similarly, in partial regeneration mode PR1, as shown in FIG. 6c, the 3 / 2-way valve 236 connects the supply port 2.1 to the primary drying chamber 210.1, so that compressed air DL can be guided in counterflow G (see FIG. 2) from the supply port 2.1 through the primary drying chamber 210.1.

[0232] Furthermore, the 3 / 2-way valve 236 in full regeneration mode VR is configured, as shown in FIG. 6d, to connect the second pneumatic main line section 21 B and the third pneumatic main line section 21 C such that compressed air DL from the supply port 2.1 is guided in counterflow G (see FIG. 2) first through the secondary drying chamber 210.2 and then through the primary drying chamber 210.1, before the compressed air DL can be guided at least via the primary venting path 13.1, which is released by the first venting valve EV1, to the venting port 3.

[0233] In bypass operation BB, as shown in FIG. 6e, the primary air dryer protection valve 238 blocks the first pneumatic main line section 21 A in a known manner. The switched, second bypass switching valve 237 allows the compressed air supply DL through the bypass line 22 to the supply connection 2.1.

[0234] FIG. 7 shows an embodiment of the air dryer device LT in detail.

[0235] The air dryer unit LT comprises an air dryer unit LE with a plurality of drying chambers 210, each filled with a drying granulate charge 212. A primary drying chamber 210.1 and a secondary drying chamber 210.2 are shown here. Additional drying chambers may be present.

[0236] The primary drying chamber 210.1 has a primary outlet opening 216.1 on a first end face 213 and a first inlet opening 215.1 on a second end face 214. The secondary drying chamber 210.2 accordingly has a secondary outlet opening 216.2 on the first end face 213 and a second inlet opening 215.2 on the second end face.

[0237] The majority of drying chambers 210 are preferably configured as a plurality of tubes 217. The majority of drying chambers 210 extend in the axial direction A, and the primary drying chamber 210.1 and the secondary drying chamber 210.2 shown here are arranged adjacent to each other in the radial direction R.

[0238] The air dryer unit LE further preferably comprises at least one housing part 220, which in this case comprises a first housing cover 221 and a second housing cover 222. The first housing cover 221 is coupled to the first end face 213 with the plurality of drying chambers 210. The second housing cover 222 is coupled to the second end face 214 with the plurality of drying chambers 210.

[0239] The pneumatic switching arrangement 230 comprises the bypass switching valve 232 and the secondary air dryer protection valve 231, which is designed as a 2 / 2-way valve 235. In a specific state, the secondary air dryer protection valve 231, designed as a 2 / 2-way valve 235, releases the second main line section 21 B.

[0240] As further shown in FIG. 7, a non-return valve 233 can optionally be provided in the pneumatic main line 21 between the secondary outlet opening 216.2 of the secondary drying chamber 210.2 and the supply connection 2.1 or the compressed air supply connection 2. Similarly, another non-return valve 239 can also be arranged between the primary outlet opening 216.1 and the first branch point Z1.

[0241] At a junction Z, the bypass connection line 22B branches off from the second main line section 21B between the primary drying chamber 210.1 and the secondary air dryer protection valve 231. The bypass connection line 22B extends towards the supply connection 2.1. The bypass switching valve 232 is located in the bypass connection line 22B.

[0242] In this case, the bypass connection line 22B connects to the pneumatic main line 21 at a connection point AN, namely to the fourth main line section 21 D.

[0243] The pneumatic switching arrangement 230 is at least partially, and preferably even completely, integrated into the housing part 210, i.e., the first housing cover 221 and the second housing cover 222, as shown in FIG. 7. Preferably, at least one of the sensors 240 is also integrated into the housing part 220.

[0244] FIG. 8 shows another embodiment of the air dryer device LT in detail. Identical or similar components have identical reference numerals, and reference is made to the detailed description of the air dryer device LT according to FIG. 7, where only the differences between the two embodiments are discussed.

[0245] The air dryer device LT according to FIG. 8 differs from the previous embodiment with regard to the design of the secondary air dryer protection valve 231. The secondary air dryer protection valve 231 is designed here as a 3 / 2-way valve 236. In the switching state shown in FIG. 8, the 3 / 2-way valve is configured to pneumatically connect the primary drying chamber 210.1 to the secondary drying chamber 210.2. The primary drying chamber 210.1 is thereby separated from the bypass connection line 22B.

[0246] Furthermore, the embodiment shown in FIG. 8 differs in that the housing part 220 is designed as an integral housing 223, which surrounds the majority of drying chambers 210.

[0247] FIG. 9 shows a method for operating an air dryer LT. Reference is made to the description of the air dryer LT according to FIG. 2 to FIG. 8.

[0248] In a first step 1100, the process 1000 comprises receiving compressed air DL from the compressor 100 at the compressor connection 1.1. In a second step 1200, compressed air DL is guided through the air dryer device LT from the compressor connection 1.1 to the supply connection 2.1, and in a third step 1300, the air drying device LT is controlled by the pneumatic switching arrangement 230 for operation in at least two different drying modes.

[0249] The drying modes include at least a first partial drying mode PT1, which is activated in step 1310 and in which the compressed air DL from compressor connection 1.1 is passed solely through the primary drying chamber 210.1. Furthermore, a full drying mode VT is included, which is activated in step 1330. In this mode, compressed air DL from the compressor connection is passed sequentially through the primary drying chamber 210.1 and the secondary drying chamber 210.2.

[0250] In the optional second partial drying mode PT2, which is controlled in step 1320, the compressed air DL from compressor connection 1.1 is only passed through the secondary drying chamber 210.2.

[0251] In the fourth step 1400, dried compressed air DL' is then provided at supply connection 2.1.

[0252] The operation of the air dryer LT in regeneration mode BR further comprises, in a fifth step 1500, receiving dried compressed air DL' at supply port 2.1 and, in step 1600, passing compressed air DL through the air dryer LT in counterflow G (see FIG. 2) from supply port 2.1 to vent port 3. In a seventh step 1700, the method comprises controlling the air dryer LT by the pneumatic switching arrangement 230 for operation in at least two different regeneration modes for dehumidifying drying granules 212.

[0253] In a first partial regeneration mode PR1, which is activated in step 1710, the dried compressed air DL' from supply port 2.1 is passed counter-currently G (see FIG. 2) solely through the primary drying chamber 210.1. In full regeneration mode VR, which is activated in step 1730, the dried compressed air from supply port 2.1 is passed sequentially counter-currently G (see FIG. 2) through the primary drying chamber 210.1 and the secondary drying chamber 210.2. In the eighth step 1800, the process 1000 comprises guiding moist compressed air from the primary inlet opening 215.1 of the primary drying chamber 210.1 and / or a secondary inlet opening 215.2 of the secondary drying chamber 210.2 to the vent connection 3.

[0254] Preferably, a second partial regeneration mode PR2 is also controlled, in which the dried compressed air DL' from the supply connection 2.1 is guided in counterflow G only through the secondary drying chamber 210.2.

[0255] As shown in FIG. 10a, operation in the first partial drying mode PT1 in step 1311 can include releasing the primary inlet path 211.1 through the primary air dryer protection valve 238 and pneumatically connecting in step 1312 a primary outlet opening 216.1 of the primary drying chamber 210.1 to the supply port 2.1 at least through the first bypass switching valve 232.

[0256] As shown in FIG. 10b, the second partial drying mode PT2 can include, as a sub-step in step 1321, the release of the secondary inlet path 211.2 by the secondary air dryer protection valve 231 or the first bypass switching valve 232, and, in sub-step 1322, the release of the secondary inlet path 211.2 by the first bypass switching valve 232. Furthermore, it can include sub-step 1323, in which the secondary inlet path 211.2 is released by the second bypass switching valve 237, and sub-step 1324, in which the secondary outlet opening 216.2 of the secondary drying chamber 210.2 is pneumatically connected to the supply port 2.1 by the secondary non-return valve 233.

[0257] As further shown in FIG. 10c, the full drying mode VT preferably comprises, as a first sub-step 1331, the opening of the primary inlet path 211.1 by the primary air dryer protection valve 238, and, in sub-step 1332, the pneumatic connection of the primary outlet opening 216.1 of the primary drying chamber 210.1 to the secondary inlet opening 215.2 of the secondary drying chamber 210.2 by the first bypass switching valve 232 (see FIG. 6) or the secondary air dryer protection valve 231 (see FIG. 3). Furthermore, as a third sub-step 1333, the pneumatic connection of the secondary outlet opening 216.2 of the secondary drying chamber 210.2 to the supply port 2.1 by the secondary non-return valve 233 may be included.

[0258] As shown in FIG. 11a, operation in the first partial regeneration mode PR1 comprises, as the first sub-step 1711, the pneumatic connection of the primary outlet opening 216.1 of the primary drying chamber 210.1 to the supply connection 2.1 at least by means of the first bypass switching valve 232, and as the second sub-step 1712, the pneumatic connection of the primary inlet path 13.1 to the primary inlet opening 215.1 of the primary drying chamber 210.1 by means of the primary air dryer protection valve 238.

[0259] As shown in FIG. 11b, operation in the second partial regeneration mode PR2 comprises, in a first sub-step 1721, the pneumatic connection of the secondary outlet opening 216.2 of the secondary drying chamber 210.2 to the supply connection 2.1 by means of the secondary non-return valve 233, and in a second sub-step 1722, the pneumatic connection of the secondary venting path 13.2 to the secondary inlet opening 215.2 of the secondary drying chamber 210.2 by means of the secondary air dryer protection valve 237.

[0260] As further shown in FIG. 11c, operation in full-operation mode VR preferably comprises, in a first step 1731, the pneumatic connection of the secondary outlet opening 216.2 of the secondary drying chamber 210.2 to the supply port 2.1 by means of the secondary non-return valve 233, and in a second step 1732, the pneumatic connection of the secondary inlet opening 215.2 of the secondary drying chamber 210.2 to the primary outlet opening 216.1 of the primary drying chamber 210.1 by means of the first bypass switching valve 232 (see FIG. 6) or the secondary air dryer protection valve 231 (see FIG. 3). Furthermore, as a third sub-step 1733, the pneumatic connection of the primary venting path 13.1 with the primary inlet opening 215.1 by the primary air dryer protection valve 238 can be included.

[0261] As further shown in FIG. 11d, a bypass operation BB can be provided, which can be carried out in step 1340 as an alternative to the partial drying modes and the full drying mode. Operation in bypass mode BB comprises, in a first sub-step 1341, receiving compressed air DL from the compressor 100 at the pneumatic compressor connection 1.1, and in sub-step 1342, routing the compressed air DL through the air dryer unit LT from the compressor connection 1.1 to the supply connection 2.1. In the third sub-step 1343, the air dryer unit LT is controlled by the pneumatic switching arrangement 230 such that the compressed air DL is routed to the supply connection 2.1 via the bypass line 22, bypassing the air dryer unit LE, in particular the primary drying chamber 210.1 and the secondary drying chamber 210.2.

[0262] In summary, the invention relates to an air dryer device for a compressed air supply system of a vehicle, in particular a passenger car, as well as the methods for operating the system. Such an air dryer device comprises a pneumatic compressor connection, a pneumatic supply connection for connection to a pneumatic main line, and an air dryer unit with a plurality of drying chambers extending in an axial direction, each containing drying granules.The invention proposes a pneumatic switching arrangement configured to pneumatically connect the compressor connection to at least one primary drying chamber and the supply connection to at least one primary drying chamber and one secondary drying chamber for the flow of compressed air, wherein the pneumatic switching arrangement is configured to selectively switch the primary drying chamber and the secondary drying chamber pneumatically in such a way that, as required by operation, the primary drying chamber and the secondary tracking chamber can each be individually supplied with compressed air, and the primary drying chamber and the secondary drying chamber can be operated with sequential flow.

[0263] 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.

[0264] 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.

[0265] 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.

[0266] Any reference numerals in the claims are not to be understood as limiting the scope of application. Reference numeral list (part of the description)

[0267] 0 Intake port

[0268] 0.1 Air filter

[0269] 1 compressed air connection

[0270] 1.1 Compressor connection

[0271] 2 compressed air supply connections

[0272] 2.1 Supply connection

[0273] 3 vent connection

[0274] 3.1, 3.2 Vent pipe connections

[0275] 10 Intake pipe

[0276] 13 Vent line

[0277] 13.1 Primary venting path

[0278] 13.2 secondary venting path

[0279] 14 Control pressure line

[0280] 15 Valve vent line

[0281] 21 pneumatic main line

[0282] 21A First pneumatic main line section 21B Second pneumatic main line section 21C Third pneumatic main line section 21D Fourth pneumatic main line section 22 Bypass line

[0283] 22A first bypass section

[0284] 22 B Bypass connection line

[0285] 22C second bypass section

[0286] 30 Throttle valve

[0287] 40 Condensation drying unit

[0288] 41 Condensation dryers

[0289] 42 Separation organ

[0290] 43 Check valve

[0291] 50 Air cooling

[0292] 60 Control unit, ECU

[0293] 100 compressors

[0294] 110 piston units

[0295] 120 Electric motor 00 Compressed air supply system

[0296] 10. Multiple drying chambers 10.1 Primary drying chamber

[0297] 10.2 Secondary drying chamber 11.1 Primary inlet path

[0298] 11.2 secondary inlet path

[0299] 12 drying granule filling

[0300] 13 first front

[0301] 14 second front

[0302] 15.1 First admission opening

[0303] 15.2 second entrance

[0304] 16.1 Primary outlet opening

[0305] 16.2 secondary outlet opening

[0306] 17 Plural of pipes

[0307] 20 Housing part

[0308] 21 first case cover

[0309] 22 second case cover

[0310] 23 cases

[0311] 30 pneumatic switching arrangement 31 secondary air dryer protection valve 232 (first) bypass switching valve

[0312] 233 secondary non-return valve 235 2 / 2-way valve

[0313] 236 3 / 2-way valve

[0314] 237 second bypass switching valve

[0315] 237.2 third bypass switching valve

[0316] 238 Primary air dryer protection valve 239 Primary non-return valve 240 Sensors

[0317] 300 pneumatic systems

[0318] 301 Sensor cleaning device

[0319] 302 Level control device

[0320] PS pneumatic system

[0321] Vehicle

[0322] P Passenger car LT Air dryer unit

[0323] LE Air Dryer Unit

[0324] DS compressed air supply system

[0325] EV vent valve arrangement

[0326] EV1 first vent valve

[0327] EV2 second vent valve

[0328] SEV2 pilot valve

[0329] D throttle

[0330] D1 first throttle

[0331] D2 second throttle

[0332] AN Junction

[0333] Z Junction

[0334] A1 first junction

[0335] A2 second junction

[0336] Z1 first junction

[0337] Z2 second junction

[0338] BB Bypass operation

[0339] BT drying operation

[0340] BR Regeneration plant

[0341] VR Full Regeneration Mode

[0342] VT Full drying mode

[0343] PT1 (first) partial drying mode PT2 second partial drying mode PR1 (first) partial regeneration mode PR2 (first) partial regeneration mode E Venting direction

[0344] B Filling direction

[0345] G Countercurrent

[0346] RB Regeneration Needs

[0347] DA compressed air request

[0348] R radial direction

[0349] A axial direction

[0350] Length L

[0351] S operating parameters

[0352] SH humidity SP pressure signal

[0353] ST temperature

[0354] SV control signals

[0355] TB TP Dew point

[0356] TL drying capacity

[0357] TLmax maximum drying capacity DA compressed air requirement

[0358] GT1 first temperature limit GT2 second temperature limit GH humidity limit

[0359] DL compressed air

[0360] DL' dried compressed air

[0361] U / P pressure sensor

[0362] TV partial volume flow

[0363] W Full volume flow

[0364] SA saturation

[0365] SAG (first) saturation limit SAG2 second saturation limit SL system venting

Claims

Patent claims 1. Air dryer device (LT) for a compressed air supply system (200) of a vehicle (FZ), in particular a passenger car (PN), comprising: a compressor connection (1.1) for connecting to a compressor (100), a supply connection (2.1) for connecting to a pneumatic main line (15), and an air dryer unit (LE) with a plurality of drying chambers (210) extending in an axial direction (A), each containing a drying granulate filling (212), characterized by a pneumatic switching arrangement (230) which is designed for pneumatically connecting the compressor connection (1.1) to at least one primary drying chamber (210.2) and for pneumatically connecting the supply connection (2.1) selectively to at least the primary drying chamber (210.2) and to a secondary drying chamber (210.2) of the majority of drying chambers (210), and wherein the pneumatic switching arrangement (230) is configured to selectively switch the primary drying chamber (210.1) and the secondary drying chamber (210.2) pneumatically such that In accordance with operational requirements, at least the primary drying chamber (210.1) must be individually supplied with compressed air (DL), and The primary drying chamber (210.1) and the secondary drying chamber (210.2) can be operated with sequential flow, as required by operational needs.

2. Air dryer device (LT) according to claim 1 , wherein, according to operational requirements, the primary drying chamber (210.1) and the secondary drying chamber (210.2) can each be supplied individually with compressed air (DL), wherein the primary drying chamber (210.1) has a first inlet opening (215.1) which is connected to the compressor connection (1.1) via a primary inlet path (211.1), and the secondary drying chamber (210.2) has a second inlet opening (215.2) which is connected to the compressor connection (1.1) via a secondary inlet path (211.2).

3. Air dryer device (LT) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the air dryer device (LT) comprises a bypass line (22) which is configured to connect the compressor connection (1.1) to the supply connection (2.1) bypassing at least the primary drying chamber (210.1) and / or the secondary drying chamber (210.2).

4. Air dryer device (LT) according to at least one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the primary drying chamber (210.1) is connected to a vent port (3) via a primary vent path (13.1), and the secondary drying chamber (210.2) is connected to the vent port (3) via a secondary vent path (13.2).

5. Air dryer device (LT) at least according to claim 2 or claim 3, wherein the primary inlet path (211.1) comprises a (first) main line section (21 A) of a pneumatic main line (21), and / or wherein the secondary inlet path (211.2) comprises a (first) bypass section (22A) of the bypass line (22) and a bypass connection line (22B) which branches off from the pneumatic main line (21) at a first branch point (Z1) and connects to the bypass line (22) at a first connection point (A1), wherein the connection point (Z1) is arranged between the primary drying chamber (210.1) and the secondary drying chamber (210.2).

6. Air dryer device (LT) according to claim 5, wherein the pneumatic switching arrangement (230) comprises a bypass switching valve (232) configured to selectively block and release the secondary inlet path (211.2) and / or to selectively connect the primary drying chamber (210.1) to the supply port (2.1) or to connect the secondary drying chamber (210.2) to the vent port (3.2).

7. Air dryer device (LT) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the pneumatic switching arrangement (230) comprises one, several or all of the following: a primary air dryer protection valve (238) arranged in the primary inlet path (211.1) between the compressor connection (1.1) and the primary drying chamber (210.1), which is designed to selectively block and release the primary inlet path (211.1), a secondary air dryer protection valve (231) arranged in the secondary inlet path (211.2) between the compressor connection (1.1) and the secondary drying chamber (210.2), which is designed to selectively block and release the secondary inlet path (211.2), a primary non-return valve (239) is arranged and configured between the supply connection (2.1) and a primary outlet opening (216.1) of the primary drying chamber (210.1) to selectively supply the primary drying chamber (210.1) with dried compressed air (DL) in counterflow (G) from the primary outlet opening (216.1) to the primary inlet opening (215.1), a secondary non-return valve (233) is arranged and configured between the supply port (2.1) and a secondary outlet port (216.2) of the secondary drying chamber (210.2) to selectively supply the secondary drying chamber (210.2) with dried compressed air (DL) in counterflow (G) from the secondary outlet port (216.2) to the secondary inlet port (215.2).

8. Air dryer device (LT) at least according to claim 7, wherein the pneumatic main line section (21 A) is a first pneumatic main line section (21 A) and the pneumatic main line (21) comprises a second pneumatic main line section (21 B) extending between the primary outlet opening (216.2) of the primary drying chamber (210.1) and the first branch point (Z1), a third pneumatic main line section (21 C) extending between the first branch point (Z1) and the secondary inlet opening (215.2) of the secondary drying chamber (210.2), and a fourth pneumatic main line section (21 C) extending between the secondary outlet opening (216.2) and the supply connection (2.1), wherein the secondary air dryer protection valve (231) is arranged in the third pneumatic main line section (21 C), and / or wherein the secondary non-return valve (233) is arranged in the fourth main line section (21D), and / or wherein the primary non-return valve (239) is located in the second main line section (21 B).

9. Air dryer device (LT) according to at least one of claims 5 to 7, wherein the bypass switching valve (232) is arranged at the first branch point (Z1) and is designed as a 3 / 2-way valve (236), or wherein the secondary air dryer protection valve (231) is arranged between the first branch point (Z1) and the secondary inlet opening (215.2) of the secondary drying chamber (210.2) and is designed as a 2 / 2-way valve (235).

10. Air dryer device (LT) at least according to claim 6, wherein the bypass switching valve (232) is a first bypass switching valve (232) and the air dryer device (LT) further comprises a second bypass switching valve (237) which is arranged in the (first) bypass section (22A), and / or wherein the air dryer device (LT) further comprises a third bypass switching valve (237.2) which is arranged in a second bypass section (22c).

11. Air dryer device (LT) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the pneumatic switching arrangement (230) is integrated at least partially into the housing part (220), and wherein one, several or all of the following are integrated at least partially into the housing part (220): the primary air dryer protection valve (238) and the first pneumatic main line section (21 A), the secondary air dryer protection valve (231 ) and the second pneumatic main line section (21 B), the (first) bypass switching valve (232) and the bypass connection line (22B), the second bypass switching valve (237) and the bypass section (22A), the primary non-return valve (239) and the second pneumatic main line section (21 B), the secondary non-return valve (233) and the fourth pneumatic main line section (21 D), the third bypass switching valve (237.2) and the second bypass section (22c).

12. Compressed air supply system (200) of a vehicle (FZ), in particular a passenger car (PN), with a compressed air connection (1 ) for connecting to a compressor (100), a compressed air supply connection (2) for connecting a pneumatic system (300), a pneumatic main line (15) which is designed to carry compressed air (DL) in a filling direction (B) from the compressed air connection (1) to the compressed air supply connection (2), and an air dryer device (LT) arranged in the pneumatic main line (15) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the compressor connection (1.1) is connected to the pneumatic main line (15) upstream of the air dryer device (LT) in the filling direction (B) and the compressed air supply connection (2) is connected to the pneumatic main line (15) downstream of the air dryer device (LT) in the filling direction (B).

13. Vehicle (FZ), in particular passenger car (PN), with a compressor (100), a compressed air supply system (200) connected to the compressor via the compressed air connection (1) according to claim 17, a pneumatic system (300) connected to the compressed air supply connection (2) of the compressed air supply system (200), a control device (60) for controlling the compressed air supply system (200).

14. Method for operating an air dryer (LT) for a compressed air supply system (200) of a vehicle (FZ), in particular a passenger car (PN), selectively in a drying mode (BT) and in a regeneration mode (BR), wherein the operation in the drying mode (BT) comprises the steps: Receiving (1100) compressed air (DL) from a compressor (100) at a pneumatic compressor connection (1.1), Guiding (1200) the compressed air (DL) through an air dryer device (LT) from the compressor connection (1.1) to a supply connection (2.1), Control (1300) of the air dryer device (LT) by means of a pneumatic switching arrangement (230) for operation in at least two of the following drying modes: a1) a partial drying mode (PT1) in which the compressed air (DL) from the compressor port (1.1) is passed only through the primary drying chamber (210.1) (1310), b1) a full drying mode (VT) in which the compressed air (DL) from the compressor connection (1.1) is sequentially passed through the primary drying chamber (210.1) and the secondary drying chamber (210.2) (1330), c1) a partial drying mode (PT2) in which the compressed air (DL) from the compressor connection (1.1) is only passed through the secondary drying chamber (210.2), Providing (1400) compressed air (DL) at the supply connection (2.1), wherein operation in regeneration mode (BR) comprises the following steps: Receiving (1500) of dried compressed air (DL) at the supply connection (2.1), Guiding (1600) the compressed air (DL) through the air dryer unit (LT) in counterflow (G) from the supply port (2.1) to a vent port (3), controlling (1700) the air dryer unit (LT) by the pneumatic switching arrangement (230) to operate in at least two of the following regeneration modes for dehumidifying drying granules (BZ) of the air dryer unit (LT): a2) a partial regeneration mode (PR1) in which compressed air (DL), in particular dried compressed air (DL'), is passed from the supply port (2.1) in counterflow (G) only through the primary drying chamber (210.1), b2) a full regeneration mode (VR) in which the compressed air (DL), in particular dried compressed air (DL') from the supply connection (2.1) is passed sequentially in counterflow (G) through the primary drying chamber (210.1) and the secondary drying chamber (210.2), Guiding (1800) moist compressed air (DL) from a primary inlet opening (215.1) of the primary drying chamber (210.1) or a secondary inlet opening (215.2) of the secondary drying chamber (210.2) to the vent connection (3).

15. Method according to claim 14, wherein the operation (1310) in partial drying mode (PT1) comprises one, several or all of the following steps: releasing (1311) a primary inlet path (211.1), in particular a first main line section (21 A), through a primary air dryer protection valve (238), pneumatically connecting (1312) a primary outlet opening (216.1) of the primary drying chamber (210.1) to the supply connection (2.1) at least by means of a first bypass switching valve (232).

16. Method according to claim 14 or 15, wherein the partial drying mode (PT1) is a first partial drying mode (PT1) and the air dryer device (LT) is furthermore operable in a second partial drying mode (PT2), and the operation (1320) in the second partial drying mode (PT2) comprises one, several or all of the following steps: Releasing (1321) a secondary inlet path (211.2), in particular a second main line section (21B), by means of a secondary air dryer protection valve (231), Releasing (1322) the secondary inlet path (211.2), in particular a bypass connection line (22B) through the first bypass switching valve (232), Releasing (1323) the secondary inlet path (211.2), in particular a first bypass section (22A) by a second bypass switching valve (237), pneumatically connecting (1324) a secondary outlet opening (216.2) of the secondary drying chamber (210.2) to the supply connection (2.1) by a secondary non-return valve (233).

17. Method according to claim 14, 15 or 16, where operating (1330) in full drying mode comprises one, several or all of the following steps: Releasing (1331) the primary inlet path (211.1), in particular the first main line section (21 A), by means of a primary air dryer protection valve (238), pneumatically connecting (1332) the primary outlet opening (216.1) of the primary drying chamber (210.1) with a secondary inlet opening (215.2) of the secondary drying chamber by means of the first bypass switching valve (232) in 3 / 2 way configuration or the secondary air dryer protection valve (231), pneumatic connection (1333) of the secondary outlet opening (216.2) of the secondary drying chamber (210.2) to the supply connection (2.1) by means of the secondary non-return valve (233).

18. Method according to any one of claims 14 to 17, where operating (1710) in partial regeneration mode (PR1) includes one, several or all of the following steps: pneumatic connection (1711) of the primary outlet opening (216.1) of the primary drying chamber (210.1) to the supply connection (2.1) at least through the first bypass switching valve (232), pneumatic connection (1712) of a primary venting path (13.1) with the primary inlet opening (215.1) of the primary drying chamber (210.1), pneumatic connection (1712) of a secondary venting path (13.2) with the primary inlet opening (215.1) of the primary drying chamber (210.1) by a primary air dryer protection valve (238).

19. Method according to any one of claims 14 to 18, wherein the partial regeneration mode (PR1) is a first partial regeneration mode (PR1) and the air dryer device (LT) can further be operated in a second partial regeneration mode (PR2), and Operating (1720) in the second partial regeneration mode (PR2) includes one, several, or all of the following steps: pneumatic connection (1721 ) of the secondary outlet opening (216.2) of the secondary drying chamber (210.2) to the supply connection (2.1) by means of the secondary non-return valve (233), pneumatic connection (1722) of a secondary venting path (13.1) with the secondary inlet opening (215.2) of the secondary drying chamber (210.2) by means of a secondary air dryer protection valve (237) and the first bypass switching valve (232).

20. Method according to any one of claims 14 to 19, where operating (1730) in full regeneration mode (VR) includes one, several or all of the following steps: pneumatic connection (1731 ) of the secondary outlet opening (216.2) of the secondary drying chamber (210.2) to the supply connection (2.1) by means of the secondary non-return valve (233), pneumatic connection (1732) of the secondary inlet opening (215.2) of the secondary drying chamber (210.2) with the primary outlet opening (216.1) of the primary drying chamber (210.1) by the first bypass switching valve (232) in 3 / 2 way configuration or the secondary air dryer protection valve (231), pneumatic connection (1733) of the primary vent path (13.1) with the primary inlet opening (215.1) of the primary drying chamber (210.1) by the primary air dryer protection valve (238).

21. Method according to any one of claims 14 to 20, further comprising operating (1340) the air dryer device (LT) in a bypass mode (BB), wherein the operation in bypass mode (BB) comprises the steps: Receiving (1341) compressed air (DL) from a compressor (100) at a pneumatic compressor connection (1.1), Guiding (1342) the compressed air (DL) through an air dryer device (LT) from the compressor connection (1.1) to a supply connection (2.1), Control (1343) of the air dryer device (LT) by the pneumatic switching arrangement (230) such that the compressed air (DL) is routed to the supply connection (2.1) via a bypass line (22), bypassing the primary drying chamber (210.1) and the secondary drying chamber (210.2).

22. Method according to one of claims 14 to 21 , wherein the pneumatic switching arrangement (230) is controlled by a control device (60) which is connected to the compressor (100) and / or at least one sensor (240) via a signal conductor, such that the partial regeneration mode (PR1) is activated in the event that - the primary drying chamber (210.1) and the secondary drying chamber (210.2) exceed a predefined saturation limit (SAG), in particular until a second predefined saturation limit is reached which is smaller than the first predefined saturation limit (SAG), - the primary drying chamber (210.1) has a higher saturation (SA) than the secondary drying chamber (210.2) and the saturation (SA) of the secondary drying chamber (210.2) is below a predefined saturation limit, so that the primary drying chamber (210.1) is regenerated, - the secondary drying chamber (210.2) has a higher saturation (SA) than the primary drying chamber (210.1) and the saturation (SA) of the primary drying chamber (210.1) is below a predefined saturation limit, so that the secondary drying chamber (210.2) is regenerated, during a system vent (SL) of the pneumatic system (300), particularly a small one, with a partial volume flow (TV), i.e., when dried compressed air (DL) is supplied at the supply connection (2.1) by the pneumatic system (300), and / or the at least one sensor (240) indicates a temperature (ST) below a first temperature limit (GT1) and an ambient humidity (SH) below a humidity limit (GH), and / or a compressed air request (DA) from a connected pneumatic system indicates a drying performance below a maximum drying performance, The full regeneration mode (VR) is activated in the event that the primary drying chamber (210.1) and the secondary drying chamber (210.2) have an identical saturation (SA), the saturation (SA) of the primary drying chamber (210.1) and the secondary drying chamber (210.2) is below a predefined saturation limit value, In the case of a system vent (SL), particularly a large one, of the pneumatic system (300) with a full volume flow (VV), i.e., when dried compressed air (DL') is supplied at the supply connection (2.1) by the pneumatic system (300), and / or the at least one sensor (240) indicates a temperature (ST) at least at the level of a first temperature limit (GT1) and an ambient humidity (SH) (U) at least at the level of a humidity limit (GH), and / or a compressed air request (DA) from a connected pneumatic system (300) indicates a drying capacity (TL) or a maximum drying capacity (TLmax), the partial drying mode (PT1) is activated if at least one sensor (240) indicates a temperature (ST) below a first temperature limit (GT1) and an ambient humidity (SH) below a humidity limit (GH), and / or a compressed air request (DA) from a connected pneumatic system indicates a drying capacity (TL) below a maximum drying capacity (TLmax), and / or Compressed air (DL) is supplied at the compressor connection (1.1) by the compressor (100), and at least one sensor (240) indicates a temperature (ST) below a first temperature limit (GT1) and an ambient humidity (SH) below a humidity limit (GH), and / or a compressed air request (DA) from a connected pneumatic system (300) indicates a drying capacity (TL) below a maximum drying capacity (TLmax), The full drying mode (VT) is activated in the event that Compressed air (DL) is supplied at the compressor connection (1.1) by the compressor (100), and which at least one sensor (240) indicates a temperature (ST) at least at the level of a first temperature limit (GT1) and an ambient humidity (SH) (U) at least at the level of a humidity limit (GH), and / or a compressed air request (DA) from a connected pneumatic system (300) indicates a drying capacity (TL) and a maximum drying capacity (TLmax), the bypass operation is activated in the event that Compressed air (DL) is supplied at the compressor connection (1.1) by the compressor (100), and at least one sensor (240) indicates a temperature (ST) at least equal to a second temperature limit (GT2) that is higher than the first temperature limit (GT1), and / or A compressed air request (DA) from a connected pneumatic system (300) does not indicate a required drying capacity (TL).

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