Pneumatic (relay Or Motorman) Type Patents (Class 303/118.1)
  • Patent number: 11945420
    Abstract: An electro-pneumatic two-channel axle modulator (1) for utility vehicles has a first supply port (2) for connecting a first compressed air supply (3) and a second supply port (4) for connecting a second compressed air supply (5), a front axle channel port (6), a rear axle channel port (8), an electro-pneumatic front axle valve assembly (10) connected to the first supply port (2) for controlling a front axle brake pressure (pVA) at the front axle channel port (6), and an electro-pneumatic rear axle valve assembly (12) connected to the second supply port (4) for controlling a rear axle brake pressure (pHA) at the rear axle channel port (8). A first redundancy valve assembly (14) is connected to the second supply port (4) for controlling a redundant front axle brake pressure (pVAR) at the front axle channel port (6).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2024
    Assignee: ZF CV Systems Europe BV
    Inventor: Julian Van Thiel
  • Patent number: 11814057
    Abstract: A method for calculating running resistance of a vehicle includes: calculating, by a controller, an integrated value obtained by integrating a torque of a driving source of the vehicle before the vehicle reaches a reference speed after the vehicle starts; and calculating, by the controller, the running resistance of the vehicle including rolling resistance based on the integrated value of the torque of the driving source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2023
    Assignees: HYUNDAI MOTOR COMPANY, KIA CORPORATION
    Inventors: Jun Sung Park, Jaebin Lee
  • Patent number: 11691608
    Abstract: The invention concerns an electronic parking brake system (2), comprising an air supply (4), a check valve (6), connected to the air supply, an electro-pneumatic control unit (8), at least one park brake actuator (10), a relay valve (12), comprising a first port (12a) connected to the check valve, a second port (12b) connected to the electro-pneumatic control unit, a third port (12c) connected to the park brake actuator and a fourth port (12d) which is in communication with the atmosphere, and an electrically actuated valve (14), which is controlled by the electro-pneumatic control unit (8) and which includes a first orifice (14a) connected to a compressed air line (16) extending between the check valve and the air supply, a second orifice (14b), a third orifice (14c) connected to the electro-pneumatic control unit (8), and preferably a vent orifice. The second orifice (14b) is connected to another compressed air line (18) extending between the check valve (6) and the first port (12a) of the relay valve (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2023
    Assignee: VOLVO LASTVAGNAR AB
    Inventors: Lionel Farres, Christophe Long
  • Patent number: 11584345
    Abstract: A valve arrangement (2a, 2b) of a hydraulically braked tractor vehicle for controlling the brake pressure of a pneumatically braked trailer includes an electronically controlled trailer control valve (6) with an inlet valve (14), an outlet valve (16), a pneumatical relay valve (18), a breakaway valve (20) and a brake control pressure sensor (24). The valve arrangement also has a hydraulically controlled backup valve (8) with a hydraulically activated relay valve (46), a redundancy valve (112, 112?) and a hydraulic control pressure sensor (50). Output-side brake control lines (40; 62) are connected via a shuttle valve (10) to a brake coupling head (82). The valves (14, 16, 18, 20) and the pressure sensors (24, 50) of the trailer control valve (6), the valves (46, 112, 112?) of the backup valve (8) and the shuttle valve (10) may be combined in one trailer control module (98) with a single housing (100).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2023
    Assignee: ZF CV Systems Hannover GmbH
    Inventors: Mirko Brütt, Michael Haverkamp, Jan Spremberg, Lars Volker
  • Patent number: 11485333
    Abstract: A diaphragm valve (DV), includes: an elastomer-diaphragm (ED) in/on a valve-housing via a radially-outer-edge-bead and interacts with a DV-seat (DVS); a first-control-chamber (CC), delimited by a first-surface, facing away from the DVS, of the ED and loadable and relieved of load by a pressure-medium (PM), and when the first-CC is loaded, the ED is pushed against the DVS; a second-CC, delimited by a second-surface, facing away from the first-surface, of the ED and loadable and relieved of load and surrounds the DVS, and, when the second-CC is loaded by PM, the ED lifts off from the DVS and the second-CC is connected to a PM-flow-channel (FC), on which the DVS is formed at an end-side; and the PM-FC, DVS, ED are coaxial as to an axial-direction, and the smallest thickness of the ED's central-region, as to a radial-direction perpendicular to the axial-direction, is at least 30% of the PM-FC's inner-diameter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2022
    Assignee: KNORR-BREMSE SYSTEME FUER NUTZFAHRZEUGE GMBH
    Inventors: Kai Werner, Jan Grebe
  • Patent number: 11247649
    Abstract: A method for decelerating a vehicle combination including a towing vehicle having a towing vehicle brake system and at least one trailer vehicle having a trailer brake system with an anti-lock brake system includes applying, by the towing vehicle brake system, a brake pressure to pneumatically operable wheel brakes of the towing vehicle according to a desired deceleration specified by a driver, and providing, by the towing vehicle brake system, a trailer brake pressure for the trailer brake system of the at least one trailer vehicle. An electronic brake control unit of the towing vehicle brake system: detects a current actual vehicle deceleration value continuously compares the current actual vehicle deceleration actual value with a maximum deceleration, and, when the current actual vehicle deceleration value reaches or exceeds the maximum deceleration, limits the brake pressure and provides an information signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2022
    Assignee: ZF CV SYSTEMS EUROPE BV
    Inventor: Horst Eckert
  • Patent number: 11155253
    Abstract: An electropneumatic parking brake system for a utility vehicle includes a pilot module configured to control at least a first control pressure. The pilot module has a pilot store connection configured to receive a store pressure from a compressed air device and at least one pilot valve combination. The electropneumatic parking brake system further includes at least one manually actuatable piston valve connected to a valve store connection and having a parking brake connection. The parking brake connection is ventilated in a first switching position of the piston valve and a parking brake pressure at the parking brake connection is controllable in a second switching position of the piston valve. The piston valve has a first pneumatic control connection at which the first control pressure is configured to be controlled in order to pneumatically switch the piston valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2021
    Assignee: ZF CV SYSTEMS EUROPE BV
    Inventors: Thomas Schmidt, Julian van Thiel
  • Patent number: 10829100
    Abstract: A power-operated hydraulic brake system for a wheeled vehicle includes a main brake line; a brake valve configured to input a target brake pressure into the main brake line, the brake vale configured to be actuated via a brake pedal; a plurality of wheel brake lines branching off from the brake valve, each of which leads to an actuating unit of a wheel brake; and a valve assembly of an ABS control system. The valve assembly includes an inlet valve arranged between the main brake line and one of the wheel brake lines, and an outlet valve arranged between the relevant wheel brake line and an unpressurized return line. The inlet valve and the outlet valve are pressure-controlled 2/2-way switching valves with correspondingly large switching cross sections, and the inlet valve and the outlet valve are each assigned at least one pilot valve designed as a solenoid switching valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2020
    Assignee: WABCO GMBH
    Inventors: Mirko Bruett, Michael Haverkamp
  • Patent number: 10814847
    Abstract: A hydraulic control valve for an ATV or motorcycle takes hydraulic input from a hand brake lever as an input to a first cavity of the control valve with a movable piston therein, and from a foot brake lever as an input to a second cavity of the control valve with a movable piston therein, with the two pistons being linked. A bypass channel extends around the piston in the first cavity, which is closed off when the first piston moves longitudinally. The output of the first cavity hydraulically controls braking of the front wheel(s). The foot brake lever also pressurizes a direct line to brake the rear wheel(s) that doesn't go through the control valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2020
    Assignee: Zhejiang CFMOTO Power Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Xiaolei Zhang
  • Patent number: 10744982
    Abstract: A hydraulic power brake system (1) of a wheeled vehicle or for a vehicle unit has a main brake line (20, 21), in which a setpoint brake pressure can be controlled via a brake valve (4) that is operated via a brake pedal (7), and from which an axle brake line or a wheel brake line (46, 49, 50) branches off. Inlet valves and outlet valves and a pilot control valve of the ABS control system for the vehicle unit or for each vehicle axle are respectively disposed together in an ABS modulator block (69), which also includes a temperature sensor (70, 71, 72) for detecting the oil temperature (T) and a heating element (73, 74, 75) for locally heating the hydraulic oil are disposed in each ABS modulator block (69).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2020
    Assignee: WABCO GmbH
    Inventors: Mirko Brütt, Michael Haverkamp
  • Patent number: 10427663
    Abstract: A relay valve is provided for a vehicle. The valve includes a parking brake piston that is displaceable in a housing and an axially displaceable cuff, a first compressed-air chamber for receiving compressed air from a control line is formed between the parking brake piston and the housing. The valve is also provided with a first spring element, which axially applies a pre-loading force to the cuff, and with a second spring element, which axially applies another pre-loading force to the parking brake piston. An axially displaceable service brake piston is arranged axially between the parking brake piston and the cuff, the service brake piston rests at least radially against the parking brake piston and radially against the housing in a sealing manner, in order to form a second compressed-air chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2019
    Assignee: KNORR-BREMSE Systeme fuer Nutzfahrzeuge GmbH
    Inventors: Karsten Schnittger, Oliver Kaupert, Stefan Langenbach, Mustafa Uslu
  • Patent number: 10328912
    Abstract: A method of detecting a leak in an air trailer brake circuit of a trailer includes providing a controller, a base valve, a first sensor, a second sensor, a leak control valve having a solenoid, a pneumatic fluid supply, a first brake output, and a second brake output. The method further includes supplying a first pressure to an inlet of the base valve and outputting a second pressure from an outlet of the base valve. The first pressure is detected with the first sensor and the second pressure is detected with the second sensor. The method also includes communicating the detected first pressure and the second pressure to the controller, and comparing a difference between first pressure and the second pressure to a threshold. A leak is detected in the air trailer brake circuit if the difference satisfies the threshold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: DEERE & COMPANY
    Inventors: Troy E. Schick, Brandon J. McMillen, Jordan Tagtow
  • Patent number: 10040436
    Abstract: A braking system of a trailer and work machine includes a pressurized fluid supply, a hydraulic base valve fluidly coupled to the supply, and a pneumatic base valve fluidly coupled to the supply. A proportional control valve is also fluidly coupled to the supply, and it includes an outlet disposed in fluid communication with the inlets of the hydraulic base valve and the pneumatic base valve. The system further includes a hydraulic output configured to be fluidly coupled to a hydraulic braking system of a trailer, and a pneumatic output configured to be fluidly coupled to a pneumatic braking system of a trailer. The hydraulic output is fluidly coupled to the outlet of the hydraulic base valve, and the pneumatic output is fluidly coupled to the outlet of the pneumatic base valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2018
    Assignee: DEERE & COMPANY
    Inventors: Troy E. Schick, Ryan A. Pence, Brandon J. McMillen, Jordan Tagtow, Aaron M. Quinn
  • Patent number: 9776611
    Abstract: The application discloses a method for controlling a pneumatic brake system of a vehicle. The method includes the step of modulating a pilot-control brake pressure by means of an electropneumatic pilot-control valve in venting phases and bleeding phases. The method also includes the step of feeding in the pilot-control pressure via a pilot-control line for outputting a brake pressure to wheel brakes of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2017
    Assignee: WABCO GmbH
    Inventors: Thomas Lenz, Gerd Roters
  • Patent number: 8894157
    Abstract: An electromagnetic pressure control module for a pressure-medium-actuated brake system of a motor vehicle, having at least two channels, the module being controlled electrically in undisrupted operation and pneumatically in the event of a fault in the electrics, and also from a method for operating the electropneumatic pressure control module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Assignee: Knorr-Bremse Systeme Fuer Nutzfahrzeuge GmbH
    Inventors: Ralf Woerner, Friedbert Roether
  • Patent number: 8864245
    Abstract: A valve device is provided for a pneumatic brake system of a commercial vehicle and comprises a pilot piston, radial seals and at least one valve seat, which can be displaced in the direction of motion of the pilot piston.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: KNORR-BREMSE Systeme fuer Nutzfaurzeuge GmbH
    Inventors: Karsten Schnittger, Oliver Kaupert, Mustafa Uslu
  • Patent number: 8851580
    Abstract: A pneumatic brake system that includes at least one pneumatic latching valve; a single device, such as a solenoid, for providing momentary pilot signals to pneumatic latching valve; a source of pressurized supply air in communication with the pneumatic latching valve; a spring brake or other pneumatic device in communication with the pneumatic latching valve; and, optionally, an indicator device for monitoring and displaying the state of the pneumatic latching valve. Upon receiving a first momentary pilot signal the pneumatic latching valve changes from closed to open and delivers pressurized air to the spring brake. Upon receiving a second momentary pilot signal, the pneumatic latching valve changes from open to closed and exhausts pressurized air from the spring brake to the external environment. The valve remains “latched” in its current state until the signaling device is energized and the next momentary pilot signal is received.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: Bendix Commerical Vehicle Systems LLC
    Inventor: Robert J Herbst
  • Patent number: 8840197
    Abstract: A vehicle hand control brake valve includes a piston, positioned based on an engagement of a vehicle parking brake, a service brake actuation valve, and a control mechanism. The control mechanism mechanically interacts with the service brake actuation valve to set a position of the service brake actuation valve. A level of actuation of vehicle service brakes is set based on the position of the service brake actuation valve. The service brake actuation valve is set to a position to actuate the service brakes when the control mechanism is set to a latch position. The control mechanism only is latched in the latch position when the vehicle parking brake is engaged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Assignee: Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Charles E. Eberling, Thanh Ho
  • Patent number: 8708430
    Abstract: A pneumatic vehicle brake system includes first and second groups of wheel brakes belonging, respectively, to first and second brake circuits having first and second compressed air storage tanks for providing first and second stored pressures. At least one first circuit brake cylinder is a combined spring-store/diaphragm cylinder with a spring store part for providing a parking brake and a diaphragm part for providing a service brake. If the first circuit fails, the spring store part is deaerated to engage the parking brake. A pressure sensor for measuring the first stored pressure is connected to a control unit that controls a modulator for aerating and deaerating the spring store part. The control unit generates a signal for an electrically actuatable modulator solenoid valve if the value measured by the sensor falls below a minimum value, such that the spring store part can be aerated and deaerated via the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: WABCO GmbH
    Inventors: Uwe Bensch, Jörg Helmer, Bernd-Joachim Kiel, Hartmut Rosendahl
  • Patent number: 8702179
    Abstract: A brake system for a vehicle includes brake cylinders operated by pressurized fluid for actuation of brakes by means of pressurized fluid on at least one first axle of the vehicle. The brakes on at least one other, second, axle can be actuated exclusively electromechanically in response to an electrical braking request signal. The pressure of the pressurized fluid can be modulated indirectly or directly and the electrical braking request signal can be generated indirectly or directly in response to actuation of a brake pedal of a brake pedal device. A service brake function is provided by means of hybrid use of the brakes on the first axle(s) together with the brakes on the second axle(s). The brake cylinders operated by pressurized fluid are pneumatically operated brake cylinders. The pressure modulated by the brake pedal device is a pneumatic pressure, and the pressurized fluid is compressed air.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: WABCO GmbH
    Inventors: Peter Beier, Henning Förster, Hartmut Rosendahl, Gerhard Bruns, Olaf Jantz, Wolfgang Strache
  • Patent number: 8480183
    Abstract: A parking brake interlock is provided according to the invention. The parking brake interlock includes a parking brake inlet configured to receive a parking brake air supply, a service brake inlet configured to receive a service brake air supply, an exhaust port, and an interlock valve mechanism in communication with the parking brake inlet, the service brake inlet, and the exhaust port. The interlock valve mechanism is configured to exhaust the parking brake air supply if the service brake air pressure is not received. The interlock valve mechanism is further configured to hold the parking brake air supply in order to generate a parking brake air pressure if the service brake air pressure is received.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: Norgren GT Development Corporation
    Inventors: John Michael Morris, Gabe Fasolino
  • Patent number: 8348350
    Abstract: A brake system (1) having a number of sub-assemblies including a foot brake pedal (14) whose two stages correspond to service and emergency modes. Pneumatic brake modules (6) are assigned to each axle and have a proportional solenoid valve EVP (9). At least one deceleration controlling UCD unit (12) receives information from the pedal related to the pedal's position and electrically controls the brake motor (31) and/or the EVP in the service and emergency modes. A pneumatic control circuit, which is actuated in the emergency mode, controls the EVP directly from the pneumatic box (19) of the pedal. The brake system (1) is suitable for articulated multi-axle road vehicles and used, in particular, for passenger transport.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: Lohr Industrie
    Inventors: Arnaud Audrezet, Jean-Luc Andre
  • Patent number: 8251462
    Abstract: A trailer braking device having a high-pressure main hydraulic circuit of a tractor to which a trailer is attached; to a hydraulic circuit of a master brake cylinder of the tractor; and a trailer brake valve having a driver connected hydraulically to the high-pressure main hydraulic circuit and to the hydraulic circuit. The driver of the device has a piston which is subjected to a first action by an independent circuit that is activated, for example, by the stop lights and a second action produced by the operator, such as a foot acting on a brake pedal, on the hydraulic circuit of the master brake cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Inventors: Enrico Sedoni, Gianpaolo Pasini
  • Patent number: 8136893
    Abstract: A pneumatic brake system that includes at least one pneumatic latching valve; a single device, such as a solenoid, for providing momentary pilot signals to pneumatic latching valve; a source of pressurized supply air in communication with the pneumatic latching valve; a spring brake or other pneumatic device in communication with the pneumatic latching valve; and, optionally, an indicator device for monitoring and displaying the state of the pneumatic latching valve. Upon receiving a first momentary pilot signal the pneumatic latching valve changes from closed to open and delivers pressurized air to the spring brake. Upon receiving a second momentary pilot signal, the pneumatic latching valve changes from open to closed and exhausts pressurized air from the spring brake to the external environment. The valve remains “latched” in its current state until the signaling device is energized and the next momentary pilot signal is received.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Assignee: Bendix Commerical Vehicle Systems LLC
    Inventor: Robert J. Herbst
  • Patent number: 7971942
    Abstract: A trailer brake system constructed and arranged to effect the relay of a brake signal from the tractor and an automatically generated brake signal of an electronic control device of the trailer to one or more additional trailers in an expanded vehicle train. In one embodiment, the brake signal is relayed to an additional coupled trailer in the form of an electrical signal via an electrical interface. In another embodiment, the brake signal is relayed to an additional trailer by means of a valve device. In yet another embodiment, the brake signal is relayed to an additional trailer by means of a combination of electrical signal transmission and valve device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: WABCO GmbH
    Inventors: Thomas Parrott, Axel Stender, Ingo Tha
  • Patent number: 7905557
    Abstract: A valve control unit including three valve units for two brake channels of an electropneumatic brake system is provided. Each valve unit is embodied as a valve modulator device for a braking pressure control circuit including an air inlet valve with a primary solenoid and a bleed valve with a secondary solenoid. Each modulator device armature includes a common solenoid guide arrangement controlled by the magnetic flux of a common magnetic coil. Independent operation of the armatures is achieved whereby flux through the secondary solenoid is weakened by a shunt in the flux circuit which causes a switching delay for the secondary solenoid relative to the primary solenoid. The magnetic resistance of a non-magnetic disc effects switch-off acceleration in the flux circuit with energized secondary solenoid, weakens the field and causes the secondary solenoid to revert to a spring-loaded base state at a higher flux than the primary solenoid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2011
    Assignee: WABCO GmbH
    Inventors: Dieter Frank, Juan Rovira-Rifaterra, Armin Sieker, Andreas Teichmann
  • Patent number: 7814923
    Abstract: A configurable control valve for use with air brake systems is provided. This control valve includes: a first or top body portion, a second or bottom body portion, and a connector for attaching the first body portion to the second body portion. The first body portion may include an actuator or handle having either a linear translation a rotational translation, and the second body portion may include either horizontal or vertical port configurations. The connector cooperates with the first body portion and the second body portion to provide complete 360° lateral rotation of the body portions relative to one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Assignee: Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems LLC
    Inventors: Brian Bobby, Travis G. Ramler, Andrew Marsh
  • Patent number: 7780245
    Abstract: A service brake/traction control valve includes a service brake control port, a traction control port, an exhaust port, and a control chamber. The control chamber fluidly communicates with the service brake control port and the traction control port as a function of a service brake event and as a function of a traction control event. The control chamber fluidly communicates with the exhaust port when the service brake event is released. The control chamber fluidly also communicates with the exhaust port when the traction control event is released.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Assignee: Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems LLC
    Inventor: Thanh Ho
  • Patent number: 7577509
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a vehicle braking system, for delivering pressurized air to a brake chamber to achieve a desired braking response, includes an air-pressure controlled relay valve for delivering the pressurized air to the brake chamber. A solenoid receives a variable control input pressure and delivers the control input pressure to the relay valve as a function of a state of the solenoid. An ECU controls the solenoid according to a control model for delivering the pressurized air to the brake chamber and achieving the desired braking response.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2009
    Assignee: Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Hermann J. Goebels, Christopher M. Knaack
  • Patent number: 7575285
    Abstract: A locking control valve is provided. This control valve includes a valve body that further includes a first locking member, and a handle attached to the valve body. The handle is moveable between a first position and a second position for controlling the operation of the valve and further includes a second locking member. The first locking member and the second locking member cooperate with one another to retain the handle in the second position when so desired by the operator of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2009
    Assignee: Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems LLC
    Inventors: Brian Bobby, Travis G. Ramler, Richard Conklin
  • Patent number: 7556322
    Abstract: A release graduating proportioning valve for a rail car brake system having a brake pipe, a brake cylinder, and a load sensor valve which selectively connects the control volume to the brake cylinder. The release graduating proportioning valve has a proportioning piston movable between a first position at which a control volume is isolated from atmosphere to a second position at which the control volume is connected to atmosphere, to enable graduated release of brake cylinder pressure. A port to atmosphere is provided in the valve body, and the port is connected to, or isolated from, the control volume responsive to movement of the proportioning piston.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2009
    Assignee: Wabtec Holding Corp.
    Inventors: Michael J. Veltri, Jeffrey D. Wurzer
  • Patent number: 7513576
    Abstract: An air treatment system and method are provided for supplying a brake system of a utility vehicle with compressed air. The air treatment system includes a compressed air outlet that is used for feeding a parking brake system, more specifically for ventilating at least one spring-loaded cylinder of a parking brake and thus for releasing the parking brake. An electrically actuated valve, by which the compressed air outlet can be prevented from being supplied with compressed air, is provided, along with an indicator that can be electrically evaluated to determine if a person is present for driving the vehicle. The electrically actuated valve prevents the compressed air outlet from being supplied with compressed air when the indicator is not provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2009
    Assignee: Knorr-Bremse Systeme fuer Nutzfahrzeuge GmbH
    Inventor: Eduard Hilberer
  • Patent number: 7478888
    Abstract: An electronic vehicle service braking system having at least one braking cylinder and a pressure control module with a control chamber and a working chamber. The working chamber is connected to an air supply via a supply line, the control chamber is connected to the air supply via a connecting line and an inlet valve and to the atmosphere via an outlet valve. The control chamber is also connected to a back-up braking system via a back-up line and a back-up valve, and a control system is provided for controlling at least the inlet valve and the back-up valve. The control system controls the valves such that the back-up valve is opened together with the inlet valve, enabling air to flow into the control chamber when an ABS signal for a rise in pressure follows a drop in pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2009
    Assignee: Knorr-Bremse Systeme fuer Nutzfahrzeuge GmbH
    Inventors: Dieter Woerner, Michael Herges, Juergen Dorsch
  • Patent number: 7455371
    Abstract: A compressed air treatment device is designed to be installed in an industrial vehicle consisting of a motor vehicle that can pull a trailer. The device comprises a set of electropneumatic components that are controlled by an electronic command/control unit which is interfaced with a computer communication bus and with various electrical components (sensors, switches, etc.). The device is used in particular to manage the compressed air in terms of supplying the service braking circuit(s).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2008
    Assignee: Renault Trucks
    Inventors: Bruno Duchet, Armando Carneiro Esteves
  • Publication number: 20080211297
    Abstract: The system comprises a brake cylinder with incorporated spring brake (1), associated with each wheel of at least one axle and able to perform air braking when both its inlets (1a, 1b) are under pressure, spring braking when a second inlet (1b) thereof is discharged, and release of spring braking when pressurised air is supplied again to the second inlet (1b); a valve control unit (7) including a relay valve (8) having a control inlet (8a) connected to the air line or pipe (3) for braking while parking, a further inlet (8b) connected to the first line or pipe (2) for service braking, and an outlet (8c) connected to the first inlet (1a) of the brake cylinder (1) associated with each wheel of said at least one axle; and a double non-return valve (11) having a first and a second inlet (11a, 11b) connected to the outlet (8c) of the relay valve (8) and, respectively, to the service braking line or pipe (2), and the outlet (11c) connected to the first inlet (1a) of the abovementioned brake cylinders (1).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2006
    Publication date: September 4, 2008
    Applicant: Knorr-Bremse Sistemi Per Autoveicoli Commerciali S.p.A.
    Inventor: Denis Battistella
  • Patent number: 7415341
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a vehicle braking system, for delivering pressurized air to a brake chamber to achieve a desired braking response, includes an air-pressure controlled relay valve for delivering the pressurized air to the brake chamber. A solenoid receives a variable control input pressure and delivers the control input pressure to the relay valve as a function of a state of the solenoid. An ECU controls the solenoid according to a control model for delivering the pressurized air to the brake chamber and achieving the desired braking response.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2008
    Assignee: Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems LLC
    Inventors: Hermann J. Goebels, Christopher M. Knaack
  • Publication number: 20080169701
    Abstract: A pneumatic brake system that includes at least one pneumatic latching valve; a single device, such as a solenoid, for providing momentary pilot signals to pneumatic latching valve; a source of pressurized supply air in communication with the pneumatic latching valve; a spring brake or other pneumatic device in communication with the pneumatic latching valve; and, optionally, an indicator device for monitoring and displaying the state of the pneumatic latching valve. Upon receiving a first momentary pilot signal the pneumatic latching valve changes from closed to open and delivers pressurized air to the spring brake. Upon receiving a second momentary pilot signal, the pneumatic latching valve changes from open to closed and exhausts pressurized air from the spring brake to the external environment. The valve remains “latched” in its current state until the signaling device is energized and the next momentary pilot signal is received.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2008
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Inventor: Robert J. Herbst
  • Patent number: 7374252
    Abstract: A wheel slip assurance module comprises a device for disabling the wheel slip valve, a timing reservoir in communication with the disabling device, and a check valve and choke circuit providing parallel connections between the output of the wheel slip valve and the timing reservoir having a first connection path comprising a check valve and charging choke and a second connection path comprising a dissipating choke such that flow from the output of the wheel slip valve passes through the check valve and charging choke to charge the reservoir when the brake cylinders are pressurized and opposite flow passes through the dissipating choke allowing the reservoir to discharge when the brake cylinders are exhausted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2008
    Assignee: Wabtec Holding Corporation
    Inventors: David E. Schweikert, Robert N. Scharpf, James A. Wood
  • Patent number: 7370917
    Abstract: An electro-pneumatic system including relay valves disposed between a pressure supply inlet and outputs respectively, and having respective control inputs; associated solenoid-operated valves each operable in a first or a second condition respectively to allow or prevent connection of the control input of the relay valves respectively to a pneumatic duct; a solenoid-operated commutation valve having respective first and second conditions in which it connects the pneumatic duct to the control input of the system to receive a braking control pressure or to an inlet/outlet aperture of a second solenoid-operated switching valve; and an electronic control unit (ECU) arranged to control the solenoid valves. The second switching valve has respective first and second conditions in which its inlet/outlet aperture is connected to a discharge passage opening to the outside environment or to the supply inlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2008
    Assignee: Knorr-Bremse Sistemi per Autoveicoli Commerciali
    Inventors: Denis Battistella, Martin Mederer
  • Patent number: 7354118
    Abstract: A pneumatic brake system that includes at least one pneumatic latching valve; a single device, such as a solenoid, for providing momentary pilot signals to pneumatic latching valve; a source of pressurized supply air in communication with the pneumatic latching valve; a spring brake or other pneumatic device in communication with the pneumatic latching valve; and, optionally, an indicator device for monitoring and displaying the state of the pneumatic latching valve. Upon receiving a first momentary pilot signal the pneumatic latching valve changes from closed to open and delivers pressurized air to the spring brake. Upon receiving a second momentary pilot signal, the pneumatic latching valve changes from open to closed and exhausts pressurized air from the spring brake to the external environment. The valve remains “latched” in its current state until the signaling device is energized and the next momentary pilot signal is received.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2008
    Assignee: Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert J. Herbst
  • Patent number: 7325567
    Abstract: The present invention pertains to an electro-pneumatic retarder control (EPRC) valve for a pneumatic retarder that controls the speed of railroad cars in a marshaling yard. The EPRC valve has a housing that generally encloses and protects its various components. The housing has a lid that can be opened to gain access to a control panel mounted on an interior door. The control panel includes a display, keyboard and programmable logic controller or PLC module that can be adjusted to set the desired pressure levels of the retarder. The EPRC valve has a modular pressure control assembly that includes an intake and exhaust manifold, a retarder supply and return manifold and several interchangeable control lines formed by like-shaped control valves and components. A pilot air control assembly enables the PLC module to selectively open and close the control valves and lines to deliver or release pressurized air to the retarder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2008
    Assignee: AAA Sales & Engineering, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas J. Heyden, Lowell B. Ziese, James D. Braatz
  • Patent number: 7267413
    Abstract: A configurable control valve for use with air brake systems is provided. This control valve includes: a first or top body portion, a second or bottom body portion, and a connector for attaching the first body portion to the second body portion. The first body portion may include an actuator or handle having either a linear translation a rotational translation, and the second body portion may include either horizontal or vertical port configurations. The connector cooperates with the first body portion and the second body portion to provide complete 360° lateral rotation of the body portions relative to one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Assignee: Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Brian Bobby, Travis G. Ramler, Andrew Marsh
  • Patent number: 7246862
    Abstract: A compressed air treatment device is designed to be installed in an industrial vehicle consisting of a motor vehicle that can pull a trailer. The device comprises a set of electropneumatic components that are controlled by an electronic command/control unit which is interfaced with a computer communication bus and with various electrical components (sensors, switches, etc.). The device is used in particular to manage the compressed air in terms of supplying the service braking circuit(s).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: Renault V.I.
    Inventors: Bruno Duchet, Armando Carneiro Esteves
  • Patent number: 7150292
    Abstract: Electropneumatic double regulating valve for an air-operated vehicle brake system, which is disposed centrally on a wheel axle, equipped with two brakes, with a common relay valve housing (1), in which is integrated for each brake an assigned regulating valve unit, which comprises for valve actuation a control piston, which can be axially adjusted and is disposed inside an assigned control chamber (3a, 3b) and which is driven with a control pressure by way of an electromagnetic pilot valve assembly, housed in an adjacent pilot valve housing, for independent axial adjustment, whereby the pilot valve housing is connected detachably to the relay valve housing (1) by way of a sealing arrangement that lies in-between, whereby the sealing arrangement is designed as one-piece and comprises two sealing ring segments (5a, 5b), which are in essence ring-shaped and are assigned to one control chamber (3a, 3b) each and which are connected together by means of several footbridges (6a to 6c), which are molded on in-between
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2006
    Assignee: Knorr-Bremse Systeme fuer Nutzfahrzeuge GmbH
    Inventors: Friedbert Roether, Siegmund Deja, Eberhard Schaffert
  • Patent number: 7144090
    Abstract: A China Type 120 Brake Valve ECP Manifold includes a manifold block in fluid communication with at least one source of fluid pressure for communicating fluid pressure signals. A plurality of apertures formed through such manifold block allows fluid communication therethrough. The manifold block is engageable intermediate a pipe bracket and a service portion. A first passageway in such manifold block has fluid communication with a first aperture at a first end and has a second end adjacent an upper face of the manifold block. A second passageway in such manifold block has fluid communication with such service portion at a first end and has a second end adjacent an upper face of the manifold block. A third passageway in such manifold block has fluid communication with a second aperture at a first end and has a second end adjacent an upper face of such manifold block.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2006
    Assignee: Wabtec Holding Corporation
    Inventors: Robert C. Kull, Patrick L. Gayle
  • Patent number: 7097261
    Abstract: A modulator comprising an inlet, an exhaust and an outlet, the modulator comprising a piston moveable in response to a control pressure in a control chamber to vary to supply of fluid under pressure to the outlet, wherein the modulator comprises a first end face and a second end face wherein the exhaust and the inlet are provided in the first end face and the outlet is provided in the second end face. The modulator further comprising a hold solenoid connected between the inlet and the control chamber, and a dump solenoid connected between the control chamber and the exhaust, wherein the connections between the hold solenoid, the exhaust and the control chamber and the connections between the dump solenoid, the control chamber and the inlet do not cross the plane of the piston.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2006
    Assignee: Haldex Brake Products, Ltd
    Inventor: Laurence John Potter
  • Patent number: 7077481
    Abstract: A combined spring brake modulating relay valve integrates the functions of a relay valve and a modulating valve. The housing includes a valve assembly movable in response to air pressure provided to selected ports in the housing. A relay piston selectively communicates with a control port and a primary brake circuit port. A modulating piston includes surfaces selectively pressurized by the primary brake circuit port and a secondary brake circuit port. This modulates the pressure from the delivery port to thereby selectively apply the associated spring brakes if a failure is detected at the primary brake circuit port. The exhaust member selectively controls communication between the supply and delivery ports as necessary.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2006
    Assignee: Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems LLC
    Inventors: Andrew Marsh, John Kemer, Charles Eberling, Dave Knight, Richard T. Ross
  • Patent number: 7059688
    Abstract: Electropneumatic control valve for a pneumatic brake system of a vehicle having a relay valve housing in which an axially adjustable control piston is arranged for actuating a valve seat arrangement which switches the compressed-air flow between at least one exterior brake line connection, a supply pressure connection and a bleeder connection. The control piston is axially guided by means of a coaxial guiding arrangement. The guiding arrangement comprises a separate guiding sleeve which is stationarily fastened to the pilot valve housing and which is provided with an upper guiding section which, for the axial guidance, corresponds with a passage bore in the control piston, and which, in addition, has a lower tube section of a smaller outside diameter adjoining the upper guiding section in order to guide the outgoing air flowing through an integrated axial bleeder duct directly to the bleeder connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2006
    Assignee: Knorr-Bremse Systeme Fuer Nutzfahrzeuge GmbH
    Inventors: Friedbert Roether, Joachim Delfs, Siegmund Deja, Eberhard Schaffert, Günther Strobel, Hans Haecker, Martin Judith
  • Patent number: 7020551
    Abstract: A roll stability control system for a pneumatically operated vehicle brake system is implemented using simpler ABS hardware rather than more complex EBS hardware. For each brake chamber or channel, two 3/2 solenoid controlled valves are used. An ECU is operative to control the solenoids. The ECU is preferably operative to provide a selected delivery pressure to the brake chamber without measurement of delivery pressure to the brake chamber. Supply air is provided at a known pressure to a first solenoid controlled valve that is associated with the brake chamber; the amount of time of energization and de-energization of the first valve that is needed to provide an output therefrom of a given pressure, is calculated; and the first valve is energized and de-energized for the calculated times, thereby to cause a low-pressure test pulse to be provided to the brake chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2006
    Assignee: Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems LLC
    Inventors: Hermann J. Goebels, Richard E. Beyer, Christopher M. Knaack, William P. Amato
  • Patent number: 6991001
    Abstract: A compressed air control apparatus for compressed air systems of motor vehicles includes a pressure controller (2), an air dryer (4) and a multi circuit protection valve (3). The pressure controller (2) controls the pressure in the compressed air control apparatus. The pressure controller (2) includes an outlet valve (8). The air dryer (4) dries the compressed air flowing through the compressed air control apparatus. The multi circuit protection valve (3) supplies a plurality of circuits (I, II, III, IV, V) with compressed air. The multi circuit protection valve (3) includes a plurality of overflow valves (23), at least one solenoid valve (32) and a regeneration conduit (36). Each of the overflow valves (23) is associated with one of the circuits (I, II, III, IV, or V). The at least one solenoid valve (32) arbitrarily operates the overflow valve (23), and it controls a regeneration phase of the air dryer (4) in which water is removed from the air dryer (4).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2006
    Assignee: Haldex Brake Products GmbH
    Inventor: Siegfried Heer