Vehicle Compressed-Air Pressure Equalization to Prevent Tank Hammer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Compressed-air systems in vehicles experience noise generation due to 'tank hammer' caused by sudden pressure changes during filling or venting operations, particularly in systems with high pressure differences.
Innovation Solution
Implement a method where pneumatic valves are actuated to connect the compressed-air accumulator to the line system only after pressure equalization, using compressed air from the compressor and/or actuators to equalize pressures, ensuring a minimal pressure difference to prevent noise.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If the compressed-air accumulator is connected suddenly to the line system to equalize pressure, then the pressure difference is reduced quickly, but intense noise generation occurs due to pressure shocks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by implementing a controlled, stepwise pressure equalization process. Instead of a single sudden connection, the system performs multiple controlled connection cycles with intermediate pressure measurements and adjustments, transforming the continuous harmful pressure shock into periodic, controlled pressure adjustments that reduce noise while maintaining equalization effectiveness
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by measuring the pressure difference between the accumulator and line system before initiating connection. This preliminary measurement allows the control system to determine the appropriate connection strategy and adjust the equalization process in advance, preventing sudden pressure shocks before they occur
2Productivity
If compressed air is introduced at high flow rates to equalize pressure quickly, then the productivity of the system improves, but tank hammer noise is intensified
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the air flow rate adjustable and adaptive rather than fixed. The control system dynamically adjusts the flow rate based on real-time pressure measurements and the specific equalization requirements, allowing the system to optimize between speed and noise reduction for different operating conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the flow rate parameter during the equalization process. The system changes the flow rate from high to low as the pressure difference decreases, adapting the parameter to the current state to prevent tank hammer while maintaining overall equalization efficiency
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Significantly reduces undesired noise generation during tank hammer events, especially in heavy goods vehicles with high air flow rates and pressures, by minimizing pressure shocks.
Implementation Method 1
A pressure sensor is provided in the line system for the purposes of measuring the pressure
Implementation Method 2
compressed air is introduced from the compressed-air source and/or the actuators into the line system
Implementation Method 3
pneumatic valves are actuated in order to connect the compressed-air accumulator to the line system
Data Source
AI summary
A method is for operating a compressed air system in a vehicle. The compressed air system has pneumatically operated actuators, switchable pneumatic valves and devices for supplying and preparing compressed air, which are connected to one another via a pneumatic line system. The devices for supplying compressed air include a compressed air source and a compressed air store, and in the line system a pressure sensor is provided for measuring the pressure. An algorithm is programmed such that depending on the difference between the pressure in the compressed air store and the pressure in the line system, pneumatic valves are actuated to connect the compressed air store to the line system only after pressure equalization between the pressure in the compressed air store and the pressure in the line system. During pressure equalization, compressed air from the source and/or the actuators or devices is introduced into the line system.