Electropneumatic Axle Modulator Valve Configuration
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electropneumatic brake control modules are costly and require significant installation space due to the use of relay valves and multiple valves, necessitating a simpler and more cost-effective solution.
Innovation Solution
The electropneumatic brake control module employs a pneumatically controllable 3/2-way main valve that eliminates the need for a relay valve and reduces the number of valves, with a simplified valve configuration that includes a main valve, pilot control unit, and electronic end stages, allowing for reduced installation space and lower costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If relay valves and multiple valves are used in electropneumatic brake control modules, then brake pressure control functionality is achieved, but installation space and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the functions of multiple valves (relay valve and 2/2-way valves) into a single integrated inlet-outlet valve unit with a main valve and brake valves. This merging of functions reduces the number of separate components needed, thereby decreasing installation space while maintaining the required brake pressure control functionality for multiple wheels.
Solution Approach 2:
The main valve of the inlet-outlet valve unit is designed to perform multiple functions: it controls supply pressure to working pressure lines and can also vent pressure. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate relay valves, reducing overall component count and installation space while preserving full brake control capability.
2Reliability
If relay valves and multiple valves are used in electropneumatic brake control modules, then brake pressure control functionality is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple valve functions into a single inlet-outlet valve unit, reducing the total number of components that need to be manufactured, assembled, and tested. This consolidation lowers manufacturing complexity and cost while maintaining the required brake pressure control functionality through the coordinated operation of the main valve and brake valves.
Solution Approach 2:
The main valve is designed with universal functionality to both supply and vent pressure, eliminating the need for expensive relay valve components. This multi-functional design reduces parts count and assembly complexity, directly reducing manufacturing costs while preserving full brake control capability.
3Area of stationary object
If a pneumatically controllable 3/2-way main valve is used, then installation space and costs are reduced, but valve control complexity must be managed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a pilot control unit as an intermediary that simplifies the control of the pneumatically operable main valve. The pilot control unit receives electrical control signals and generates the appropriate pneumatic control signals for the main valve, thereby reducing installation space by eliminating relay valves while managing control complexity through a dedicated control interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical relay valve systems with a more compact electropneumatic system where the main valve is controlled by pneumatic signals from a pilot control unit. This substitution reduces installation space while the electronic-pneumatic control interface manages the complexity of operating a pneumatically actuated valve.
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 configuration reduces installation space and costs by eliminating redundant components, while maintaining effective control over brake pressures for individual wheels, ensuring efficient brake operation and preventing brake application in case of control pressure loss.
Implementation Method 1
a pneumatically controllable 3/2-way main valve with a main valve control connection
Implementation Method 2
an electropneumatic pilot control unit for controlling at least one main control pressure at a main valve
Data Source
AI summary
An electropneumatic brake control module (1) has a supply connection (2) for connecting a compressed air supply (3); a first wheel brake connection (4) and a second wheel brake connection (6); a pneumatically controlled inlet-outlet valve unit (8) for controlling a first brake pressure (PB1) at the first wheel brake connection (4) and a second brake pressure (PB2) at the second wheel brake connection (6), which is independent of the first brake pressure (PB1); and an electropneumatic pilot control unit (10) for controlling at least one main control pressure (PH) at a main valve (12) of the inlet-outlet valve unit (10). The main valve (12) of the inlet-outlet valve unit (10) is a pneumatically controllable 3/2-way valve (13) with a main valve control connection (12.4).