Compressor Outlet Channel as Switchable Dead Space

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing compressor designs face challenges in optimizing the dead space volume due to cramped space conditions in the cylinder head, leading to inefficient use of space and potential need for additional installation space.

Innovation Solution

The integration of a switchable dead space within the compressed air outlet channel, allowing the compressed air outlet channel to function as a dead space in energy-saving mode, thereby eliminating the need for separate dead space installation and optimizing the use of existing space.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Use of energy by moving object

If a separate dead space is provided in the cylinder head, then the compressor can operate in energy-saving mode, but the device occupies more space and the design becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy consumptionVSAvoiddevice volume
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the dead space function with the compressed air outlet channel by providing a bypass passage that connects the compression chamber to the outlet channel. This integration allows the outlet channel to serve dual purposes: as an exhaust path and as a dead space for energy-saving operation, eliminating the need for a separate dead space volume.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The compressed air outlet channel is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as the primary outlet for compressed air during normal operation and simultaneously functions as a dead space during energy-saving mode. The bypass passage enables this multi-functionality by allowing the outlet channel to be connected to the compression chamber when needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Use of energy by moving object

If a separate dead space is provided in the cylinder head, then the compressor can operate in energy-saving mode, but the device complexity increases due to additional components

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy consumptionVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the dead space functionality into the existing outlet channel structure, avoiding the need for separate dead space components. The bypass passage integrates the compression chamber connection directly into the outlet channel, reducing the number of discrete parts and simplifying the overall device architecture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The outlet channel is designed to perform multiple functions: serving as the primary compressed air outlet during normal operation and simultaneously functioning as a dead space during energy-saving mode. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Use of energy by moving object

If the dead space volume is increased, then the energy-saving effect is improved, but the available space in the cylinder head is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy consumptionVSAvoidcylinder head volume
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extends the dead space volume beyond the confines of the cylinder head by utilizing the outlet channel as part of the dead space. The bypass passage allows compression air to be introduced into the outlet channel, effectively using the channel's volume as functional dead space, thereby overcoming the spatial limitations of the cylinder head.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The outlet channel is merged with the dead space functionality, allowing its volume to be utilized for energy-saving purposes. This integration enables the system to achieve a larger effective dead space volume without requiring additional space within the cylinder head.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

This solution allows for a more compact compressor design, reduces the load on the compressor drive, and provides additional space for other components, enhancing energy efficiency and operational flexibility.

Implementation Method 1

compressed air from the dead space that can be switched on is expanded back into the compression space through the open additional valve in the energy-saving mode, in particular for driving a piston of the device

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectGas expansion:

Implementation Method 2

air is compressed through the open additional valve into the dead space that can be activated. For example, during a piston movement of a piston of the device from a bottom dead center to a top dead center, air can be compressed from the compression chamber through the opened additional valve into the dead space that can be activated

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectGas compression: Compression

Data Source

PatentEP3527825B1Device for generating compressed air
Publication Date: 2021.06.30 MAN TRUCK & BUS SE
  • EP3527825B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3527825B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to a device, in particular a compressor (12), for generating compressed air for a commercial vehicle. The device has an outlet valve (28) through which a compression chamber (24) and a compressed air outlet channel (22) can be connected, and an auxiliary valve (38) for an energy-saving mode of the device, through which the compression chamber (24) and the compressed air outlet channel (22) can be connected. By means of the auxiliary valve (38), the compressed air outlet channel (22) can be used, at least partially, as a switchable storage chamber (42) when the auxiliary valve (38) is open. Thus, the switchable storage chamber (42) for the energy-saving mode, in which the compressor or a compressor drive can be relieved of stress, can be at least partially integrated into the compressed air outlet channel (22).