WO2010128933A1 - Device for operating a suspension level system in a vehicle - Google Patents

Device for operating a suspension level system in a vehicle Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2010128933A1
WO2010128933A1 PCT/SE2010/050452 SE2010050452W WO2010128933A1 WO 2010128933 A1 WO2010128933 A1 WO 2010128933A1 SE 2010050452 W SE2010050452 W SE 2010050452W WO 2010128933 A1 WO2010128933 A1 WO 2010128933A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
level system
suspension
suspension level
operating
manually operated
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Ceased
Application number
PCT/SE2010/050452
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Daniel Aslan
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Scania CV AB
Original Assignee
Scania CV AB
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Scania CV AB filed Critical Scania CV AB
Priority to BRPI1006255-6A priority Critical patent/BRPI1006255B1/en
Priority to CN201080019931.6A priority patent/CN102414768B/en
Priority to DE112010001904.5T priority patent/DE112010001904B4/en
Priority to RU2011149477/07A priority patent/RU2478237C1/en
Publication of WO2010128933A1 publication Critical patent/WO2010128933A1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Ceased legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H25/00—Switches with compound movement of handle or other operating part
    • H01H25/06—Operating part movable both angularly and rectilinearly, the rectilinear movement being along the axis of angular movement
    • H01H25/065—Operating part movable both angularly and rectilinearly, the rectilinear movement being along the axis of angular movement using separate operating parts, e.g. a push button surrounded by a rotating knob
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60G—VEHICLE SUSPENSION ARRANGEMENTS
    • B60G17/00—Resilient suspensions having means for adjusting the spring or vibration-damper characteristics, for regulating the distance between a supporting surface and a sprung part of vehicle or for locking suspension during use to meet varying vehicular or surface conditions, e.g. due to speed or load
    • B60G17/015—Resilient suspensions having means for adjusting the spring or vibration-damper characteristics, for regulating the distance between a supporting surface and a sprung part of vehicle or for locking suspension during use to meet varying vehicular or surface conditions, e.g. due to speed or load the regulating means comprising electric or electronic elements
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60G—VEHICLE SUSPENSION ARRANGEMENTS
    • B60G17/00—Resilient suspensions having means for adjusting the spring or vibration-damper characteristics, for regulating the distance between a supporting surface and a sprung part of vehicle or for locking suspension during use to meet varying vehicular or surface conditions, e.g. due to speed or load
    • B60G17/02—Spring characteristics, e.g. mechanical springs and mechanical adjusting means
    • B60G17/04—Spring characteristics, e.g. mechanical springs and mechanical adjusting means fluid spring characteristics
    • B60G17/052—Pneumatic spring characteristics
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60P—VEHICLES ADAPTED FOR LOAD TRANSPORTATION OR TO TRANSPORT, TO CARRY, OR TO COMPRISE SPECIAL LOADS OR OBJECTS
    • B60P1/00—Vehicles predominantly for transporting loads and modified to facilitate loading, consolidating the load, or unloading
    • B60P1/04—Vehicles predominantly for transporting loads and modified to facilitate loading, consolidating the load, or unloading with a tipping movement of load-transporting element
    • B60P1/045—Levelling or stabilising systems for tippers
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
    • B62D—MOTOR VEHICLES; TRAILERS
    • B62D61/00—Motor vehicles or trailers, characterised by the arrangement or number of wheels, not otherwise provided for, e.g. four wheels in diamond pattern
    • B62D61/12—Motor vehicles or trailers, characterised by the arrangement or number of wheels, not otherwise provided for, e.g. four wheels in diamond pattern with variable number of ground engaging wheels, e.g. with some wheels arranged higher than others, or with retractable wheels
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60G—VEHICLE SUSPENSION ARRANGEMENTS
    • B60G2300/00—Indexing codes relating to the type of vehicle
    • B60G2300/40—Variable track or wheelbase vehicles
    • B60G2300/402—Extra load carrying wheels, e.g. tag axles
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60G—VEHICLE SUSPENSION ARRANGEMENTS
    • B60G2500/00—Indexing codes relating to the regulated action or device
    • B60G2500/30—Height or ground clearance
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60G—VEHICLE SUSPENSION ARRANGEMENTS
    • B60G2600/00—Indexing codes relating to particular elements, systems or processes used on suspension systems or suspension control systems
    • B60G2600/04—Means for informing, instructing or displaying
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60G—VEHICLE SUSPENSION ARRANGEMENTS
    • B60G2600/00—Indexing codes relating to particular elements, systems or processes used on suspension systems or suspension control systems
    • B60G2600/20—Manual control or setting means
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60G—VEHICLE SUSPENSION ARRANGEMENTS
    • B60G2800/00—Indexing codes relating to the type of movement or to the condition of the vehicle and to the end result to be achieved by the control action
    • B60G2800/90—System Controller type
    • B60G2800/91—Suspension Control
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60G—VEHICLE SUSPENSION ARRANGEMENTS
    • B60G2800/00—Indexing codes relating to the type of movement or to the condition of the vehicle and to the end result to be achieved by the control action
    • B60G2800/90—System Controller type
    • B60G2800/91—Suspension Control
    • B60G2800/912—Attitude Control; levelling control
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60G—VEHICLE SUSPENSION ARRANGEMENTS
    • B60G2800/00—Indexing codes relating to the type of movement or to the condition of the vehicle and to the end result to be achieved by the control action
    • B60G2800/90—System Controller type
    • B60G2800/91—Suspension Control
    • B60G2800/914—Height Control System
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G05—CONTROLLING; REGULATING
    • G05G—CONTROL DEVICES OR SYSTEMS INSOFAR AS CHARACTERISED BY MECHANICAL FEATURES ONLY
    • G05G9/00—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously
    • G05G9/02—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only
    • G05G9/04—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only in which movement in two or more ways can occur simultaneously
    • G05G9/047—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only in which movement in two or more ways can occur simultaneously the controlling member being movable by hand about orthogonal axes, e.g. joysticks
    • G05G2009/04781—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only in which movement in two or more ways can occur simultaneously the controlling member being movable by hand about orthogonal axes, e.g. joysticks with additional rotation of the controlling member

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a device for operating a suspension level system in a motor vehicle, or more particularly to a device according to the preamble of claim 1. Furthermore, the present invention also relates to a motor vehicle and a system provided with such a device for operating a suspension level system.
  • Suspension level systems are commonly used in heavy motor vehicles, such as trucks, for controlling the height level of the suspension system, e.g. when loading or unloading cargo.
  • the suspension level system can also be used for controlling load transfer, raising/lowering tag axle of the vehicle, etc.
  • the suspension level system provides a number of functions related to height, load and drive configuration of the suspension of the heavy motor vehicle.
  • the suspension level system is operated by means of separate buttons arbitrarily mounted on a panel in a cabin of a motor vehicle.
  • Each button corresponds to a function of the suspension level system, and hence a large number of buttons are arranged on the panel. Eight buttons on the panel for operating the suspension level system is not unusual, and the buttons are placed where free space can be found on the panel.
  • Document WO2008/083775 discloses an operating and display system for level control of a vehicle.
  • the system comprises at least one multifunctional operating unit, integrated into the vehicle, having a manual operating unit and an optical display unit for controlling the vehicle. Further, the system also comprises a portable remote control unit having a second manual operating unit and a second display unit, wherein the portable remote control unit function as a redundant unit to the multifunctional operating unit for controlling the level control system.
  • An object of the present invention is to provide an alternative solution to the problem of operating a suspension level system in a motor vehicle. It is another object of the invention to provide a device for operating a suspension level system which is com- pact and simple to handle when operating the suspension level system.
  • a device for operating a suspension level system in a motor vehicle comprises a first manually operated switch arranged to be in communication with said suspension level system for operating the same. Furthermore, the first manually operated switch is arranged to be mechanically operable in a plurality of positions, each position selecting a function among a plurality of functions provided by the suspension level system.
  • a device for operating a suspension level system With a device for operating a suspension level system according to the invention, all functions provided by the suspension level system can be operated from a single device, which makes the operation of the suspension level system easy. Space on the panel can also be saved since all functions are operable from the one device compared to solutions comprising a plurality of scattered separate operating buttons, or to solutions comprising at least one operating unit and at least one optical display unit. That is, according to the present invention only one device has to be mounted on the panel, which also will result in shorter assembly time when assembling panels comprising a device according to the invention.
  • the number of communication pins needed for connecting the operating device to the suspension level system is reduced due to the fact that only one set of communication pins is needed according to the present invention compared to one set of communication pins per button for the prior art solution described above. For example, if one set of communication pins equals three pins, and assuming that eight buttons are used for operating the suspension level system and one set of pins per button/operating device is needed for communication with the suspension level system, the number of communication pins needed is reduced from 24 (3x8) to 3 (3x1 ). Hence, the cost for manufacture and service of a device for controlling a suspension level system will be reduced.
  • the first manually operated switch comprises controlling means for controlling a selected function, and the first manually operated switch is mechanically operable in a first degree of freedom for selecting a function, and a second degree of freedom for controlling said selected function.
  • the device also comprises a second manually operated switch for controlling a selected function.
  • the first manually operated switch is a rotatable knob having a plurality of predetermined discrete positions for selecting a function
  • the second manually operated switch comprises two push buttons for controlling a selected function.
  • the rotatable knob can be in the shape of an annular ring surrounding the two push buttons.
  • the device also comprises a plurality of symbols corresponding to functions provided by the suspension level system, where each symbol is arranged adjacent to an associated position for identifying a selected function.
  • a motor vehicle provided with at least one device for operating a suspension level system described above.
  • the above mentioned objects are achieved by a system provided with at least one device for operating the suspension level system described above.
  • FIG. 1 schematically shows a motor vehicle comprising a suspension level system
  • FIG. 2 schematically shows a system comprising a device for operating a suspension level system according to the invention and a suspension level system;
  • FIG. 3 shows an embodiment of a device for operating a suspension level system according to the invention
  • FIG. 4A shows, in top view, another embodiment of a device for operating a suspension level system according to the invention.
  • Figure 4B shows, in side view, the embodiment in Figure 4A.
  • FIG. 1 shows schematically an exemplified suspension level system 2 in a motor vehicle 3, such as a truck.
  • the suspension level system 2 consists of a front suspension unit 21 associated with a front wheel pair 31 , a rear suspension unit 22 associated with a rear wheel pair 32 and a tag axle suspension unit 23 associated with a tag axle 33.
  • FIG. 2 a system comprising a suspension level system 2 and a device 1 for operating the suspension level system according to the invention is shown.
  • Each suspension unit 21 , 22, 23 has at least one bellow 24 and at least one valve 25 connected via a pipe system (not shown) to a pneumatic pressure source system
  • the bellows 24 are arranged to output a mechanical force in response to an amount of input air from the pneumatic pressure source system via the valve 25, thereby raising or lowering a chassis element (not shown) in relation to an associated wheel pair or axle (31 , 32, 33), depending on the amount of input air.
  • the suspension level system 2 also includes a control unit 26 for controlling the suspension units 21 , 22, 23.
  • the control unit 26 is in this case coupled to the suspension units 21 , 22, 23 via a communication bus 27.
  • the system further comprises a device 1 for operating a suspension level system 2 according to the invention, which is arranged to be in communication with the control unit 26 for operating the suspension level system 2.
  • the communication can e.g. be performed on a communication bus (e.g. on an ECU), or alternatively on a separate signal cable for transmission of communication signals from the device 1 to the control unit 26, and vice versa.
  • the communication can also be performed by means of radio signals in wireless transmissions, which is understood by the skilled person.
  • FIG 3 shows an embodiment of a device 1 for operating a suspension level system 2 according to the invention.
  • the device 1 has a first manually operated switch 4 in the form of an annular rotatable knob 44 surrounding a second manually operated switch 5 in the form of two push buttons 55, 55 ' .
  • the rotatable knob 44 is arranged to be mechanically operable in a plurality of predetermined discrete positions, where each position corresponds to a function among a plurality of functions provided by the suspension level system 2. Hence, by rotating (R) the knob 44 into a predetermined discrete position a function is selected, and to identify the selected function a plurality of symbols are arranged adjacent to an associated position of the first manually operated switch 4 as shown in Figure 3.
  • symbols are illustrated in the form of icons which can be printed on a sticker surrounding the rotatable knob 44.
  • the symbols can also be arranged on an associated position, e.g. by printing the symbols directly on the first and second manually operated switches 4, 5.
  • the symbols can be in the form of text, colour indications, or icons.
  • the identification of the selected function can also be performed with sound/speech signals (using a speaker element), or a combination of symbols and sound/speech signals.
  • the embodiment in Figure 3 also comprises a second manually operated switch 5 having two separate push buttons (an upper 55 and a lower 55 ' push button), where the two push buttons 55, 55 ' are arranged for controlling a selected function provided by the suspension level system 2.
  • the functions F1-F9 which are illustrated by icons in Figure 3, are presented in Table 1 , but it should be understood that the suspension level system 2 may provide more functions than the functions disclosed said Table.
  • the push buttons 55, 55 ' may as an alternative be arranged side by side.
  • the functions provided by the suspension level system 2 may also relate to memory functions for saving one or more settings of the above mentioned functions F1 -F7 and to activate/deactivate a stored memory setting.
  • functions F8 and F9 are memory functions.
  • a setting of the suspension level system 2 is saved by selecting any of functions F8-F9 and pressing down the upper 55 or lower 55 ' button during a first time interval, and activate/deactivate the saved setting by pressing down the upper 55 or lower 55 ' button during a second time interval, where preferably the first time interval is longer than the second time interval, e.g. 5 and 3 seconds, respectively.
  • FIG 4A another embodiment of a device 1 for operating a suspension level system 2 according to the invention is shown in top view, and in Figure 4B in side view.
  • the first manually operated switch 4 comprises in this embodiment a joystick 44, which can be rotated (R) into a plurality of predetermined discrete positions for selecting a function provided by the suspension level system 2.
  • the joystick 44 is also arranged to be tilted up and down according to the direction of arrows A1 and A2, respectively, for controlling the selected function.
  • the first manually operated switch 4 is operable in a first degree of freedom (rotating) for selecting a function, and a second degree of freedom (tilting) for controlling the selected function.
  • the joystick 44 is rotated into a position corresponding to a desired function, and then tilted up and down for con- trolling the selected function, e.g. in the same manner as described for the embodiment in Figure 3 where tilting up and down the joystick 44 correspond to pressing down the upper 55 and lower 55 ' buttons, respectively.
  • the device 1 for operating a suspension level system 2 is preferably mounted on a panel in a cabin of a motor vehicle 3.
  • the device 1 is detachably mounted on the panel and is further arranged to be used outside of the cabin for operating the suspension level system 2.
  • the communication between the device 1 and the suspension level system 2 may be performed, as mentioned above, by means of wired or wireless communication.
  • a detachably mounted device 1 according to this embodiment can be preferable when the driver or any other person need to operate the suspension level system 2 from the outside of the cabin, e.g. in a loading situation controlling the level of the rear suspension.
  • the motor vehicle 3 may comprise two or more devices 1 according to the invention, where a first device 1 is fixed mounted on the panel for inside use, while a second device 1 is arranged for outside use.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Transportation (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
  • Vehicle Body Suspensions (AREA)

Abstract

The present invention relates to a device for operating a suspension level system in a motor vehicle. The device comprises a first manually operated switch arranged to be in communication with said suspension level system for operating the same. Further- more, the first manually operated switch is arranged to be mechanically operable in a plurality of positions, each position selecting a function among a plurality of functions provided by the suspension level system. The invention also relates to a motor vehicle and a system provided with such a device for operating a suspension level system.

Description

DEVICE FOR OPERATING A SUSPENSION LEVEL SYSTEM IN A VEHICLE
Technical Field
The present invention relates to a device for operating a suspension level system in a motor vehicle, or more particularly to a device according to the preamble of claim 1. Furthermore, the present invention also relates to a motor vehicle and a system provided with such a device for operating a suspension level system.
Background of the Invention Suspension level systems are commonly used in heavy motor vehicles, such as trucks, for controlling the height level of the suspension system, e.g. when loading or unloading cargo. The suspension level system can also be used for controlling load transfer, raising/lowering tag axle of the vehicle, etc. Hence, the suspension level system provides a number of functions related to height, load and drive configuration of the suspension of the heavy motor vehicle.
Usually, the suspension level system is operated by means of separate buttons arbitrarily mounted on a panel in a cabin of a motor vehicle. Each button corresponds to a function of the suspension level system, and hence a large number of buttons are arranged on the panel. Eight buttons on the panel for operating the suspension level system is not unusual, and the buttons are placed where free space can be found on the panel.
Document WO2008/083775 discloses an operating and display system for level control of a vehicle. The system comprises at least one multifunctional operating unit, integrated into the vehicle, having a manual operating unit and an optical display unit for controlling the vehicle. Further, the system also comprises a portable remote control unit having a second manual operating unit and a second display unit, wherein the portable remote control unit function as a redundant unit to the multifunctional operating unit for controlling the level control system. Summary of the Invention
An object of the present invention is to provide an alternative solution to the problem of operating a suspension level system in a motor vehicle. It is another object of the invention to provide a device for operating a suspension level system which is com- pact and simple to handle when operating the suspension level system.
According to one aspect of the present invention, the above mentioned objects are achieved by a device for operating a suspension level system in a motor vehicle. The device comprises a first manually operated switch arranged to be in communication with said suspension level system for operating the same. Furthermore, the first manually operated switch is arranged to be mechanically operable in a plurality of positions, each position selecting a function among a plurality of functions provided by the suspension level system.
With a device for operating a suspension level system according to the invention, all functions provided by the suspension level system can be operated from a single device, which makes the operation of the suspension level system easy. Space on the panel can also be saved since all functions are operable from the one device compared to solutions comprising a plurality of scattered separate operating buttons, or to solutions comprising at least one operating unit and at least one optical display unit. That is, according to the present invention only one device has to be mounted on the panel, which also will result in shorter assembly time when assembling panels comprising a device according to the invention.
Furthermore, the number of communication pins needed for connecting the operating device to the suspension level system is reduced due to the fact that only one set of communication pins is needed according to the present invention compared to one set of communication pins per button for the prior art solution described above. For example, if one set of communication pins equals three pins, and assuming that eight buttons are used for operating the suspension level system and one set of pins per button/operating device is needed for communication with the suspension level system, the number of communication pins needed is reduced from 24 (3x8) to 3 (3x1 ). Hence, the cost for manufacture and service of a device for controlling a suspension level system will be reduced.
According to an embodiment of the aforementioned aspect of the invention, the first manually operated switch comprises controlling means for controlling a selected function, and the first manually operated switch is mechanically operable in a first degree of freedom for selecting a function, and a second degree of freedom for controlling said selected function.
According to another embodiment of the aforementioned aspect of the invention, the device also comprises a second manually operated switch for controlling a selected function. In an embodiment, the first manually operated switch is a rotatable knob having a plurality of predetermined discrete positions for selecting a function, and the second manually operated switch comprises two push buttons for controlling a selected function. The rotatable knob can be in the shape of an annular ring surrounding the two push buttons.
According to yet another embodiment of the aforementioned aspect of the invention, the device also comprises a plurality of symbols corresponding to functions provided by the suspension level system, where each symbol is arranged adjacent to an associated position for identifying a selected function.
According to another aspect of the invention, the above mentioned objects are achieved by a motor vehicle provided with at least one device for operating a suspension level system described above.
According to yet another aspect of the invention, the above mentioned objects are achieved by a system provided with at least one device for operating the suspension level system described above.
Other advantages and applications of the present invention will be apparent from the following detailed description of the invention. Brief Description of the Drawings
The appended drawings are intended to clarify and explain the present invention, in which:
- Figure 1 schematically shows a motor vehicle comprising a suspension level system;
- Figure 2 schematically shows a system comprising a device for operating a suspension level system according to the invention and a suspension level system;
- Figure 3 shows an embodiment of a device for operating a suspension level system according to the invention;
- Figure 4A shows, in top view, another embodiment of a device for operating a suspension level system according to the invention; and
- Figure 4B shows, in side view, the embodiment in Figure 4A.
Detailed Description of Embodiments of the Invention
Figure 1 shows schematically an exemplified suspension level system 2 in a motor vehicle 3, such as a truck. The suspension level system 2 consists of a front suspension unit 21 associated with a front wheel pair 31 , a rear suspension unit 22 associated with a rear wheel pair 32 and a tag axle suspension unit 23 associated with a tag axle 33.
In Figure 2 a system comprising a suspension level system 2 and a device 1 for operating the suspension level system according to the invention is shown. Each suspension unit 21 , 22, 23 has at least one bellow 24 and at least one valve 25 connected via a pipe system (not shown) to a pneumatic pressure source system
(not shown), which may comprise a compressor and a pressure tank. The bellows 24 are arranged to output a mechanical force in response to an amount of input air from the pneumatic pressure source system via the valve 25, thereby raising or lowering a chassis element (not shown) in relation to an associated wheel pair or axle (31 , 32, 33), depending on the amount of input air.
The suspension level system 2 also includes a control unit 26 for controlling the suspension units 21 , 22, 23. The control unit 26 is in this case coupled to the suspension units 21 , 22, 23 via a communication bus 27. As shown in Figure 2, the system further comprises a device 1 for operating a suspension level system 2 according to the invention, which is arranged to be in communication with the control unit 26 for operating the suspension level system 2. The communication can e.g. be performed on a communication bus (e.g. on an ECU), or alternatively on a separate signal cable for transmission of communication signals from the device 1 to the control unit 26, and vice versa. The communication can also be performed by means of radio signals in wireless transmissions, which is understood by the skilled person.
Figure 3 shows an embodiment of a device 1 for operating a suspension level system 2 according to the invention. The device 1 has a first manually operated switch 4 in the form of an annular rotatable knob 44 surrounding a second manually operated switch 5 in the form of two push buttons 55, 55'. The rotatable knob 44 is arranged to be mechanically operable in a plurality of predetermined discrete positions, where each position corresponds to a function among a plurality of functions provided by the suspension level system 2. Hence, by rotating (R) the knob 44 into a predetermined discrete position a function is selected, and to identify the selected function a plurality of symbols are arranged adjacent to an associated position of the first manually operated switch 4 as shown in Figure 3. In Figure 3, symbols are illustrated in the form of icons which can be printed on a sticker surrounding the rotatable knob 44. The symbols can also be arranged on an associated position, e.g. by printing the symbols directly on the first and second manually operated switches 4, 5. The symbols can be in the form of text, colour indications, or icons. Further, the identification of the selected function can also be performed with sound/speech signals (using a speaker element), or a combination of symbols and sound/speech signals.
As mentioned above, the embodiment in Figure 3 also comprises a second manually operated switch 5 having two separate push buttons (an upper 55 and a lower 55' push button), where the two push buttons 55, 55' are arranged for controlling a selected function provided by the suspension level system 2. The functions F1-F9, which are illustrated by icons in Figure 3, are presented in Table 1 , but it should be understood that the suspension level system 2 may provide more functions than the functions disclosed said Table. The push buttons 55, 55' may as an alternative be arranged side by side.
Table 1
Figure imgf000007_0001
Hence, when function F1 is selected (by rotating the knob into the corresponding position) and the upper button 55 is pressed down the tag axle 23 will be raised, and if the lower button 55' is pressed down the tag axle 23 will be lowered. Correspondingly, rear suspension 22, front suspension 21 , and front 21 and rear 22 suspension will be raised or lowered when the upper 55 or lower 55' buttons is pressed down when functions F4-F6 are selected, respectively; load transfer will be increased or decreased when function F2 is selected and the upper 55 or lower 55' button is pressed down; when function F3 is selected and any of the upper 55 or lower 55' buttons are pressed down, the suspension level system 2 will be set to drive level and the vehicle 3 will be ready for drive away; while function F7 relates to activation /deactivation of exhausted bellows, which means that all bellows in the suspension level system 2 are emptied and the vehicle will therefore be "seated" in the lowest level of the suspension system 2. This function may be activated or deactivated by pressing down any of the upper 55 or lower 55' buttons.
The functions provided by the suspension level system 2 may also relate to memory functions for saving one or more settings of the above mentioned functions F1 -F7 and to activate/deactivate a stored memory setting. In Table 1 , functions F8 and F9 are memory functions. According to one embodiment, a setting of the suspension level system 2 is saved by selecting any of functions F8-F9 and pressing down the upper 55 or lower 55' button during a first time interval, and activate/deactivate the saved setting by pressing down the upper 55 or lower 55' button during a second time interval, where preferably the first time interval is longer than the second time interval, e.g. 5 and 3 seconds, respectively.
In Figure 4A, another embodiment of a device 1 for operating a suspension level system 2 according to the invention is shown in top view, and in Figure 4B in side view. The first manually operated switch 4 comprises in this embodiment a joystick 44, which can be rotated (R) into a plurality of predetermined discrete positions for selecting a function provided by the suspension level system 2. The joystick 44 is also arranged to be tilted up and down according to the direction of arrows A1 and A2, respectively, for controlling the selected function.
Hence, the first manually operated switch 4 is operable in a first degree of freedom (rotating) for selecting a function, and a second degree of freedom (tilting) for controlling the selected function. When using the device 1 , the joystick 44 is rotated into a position corresponding to a desired function, and then tilted up and down for con- trolling the selected function, e.g. in the same manner as described for the embodiment in Figure 3 where tilting up and down the joystick 44 correspond to pressing down the upper 55 and lower 55' buttons, respectively.
The device 1 for operating a suspension level system 2 according to the invention is preferably mounted on a panel in a cabin of a motor vehicle 3. According to an embodiment, the device 1 is detachably mounted on the panel and is further arranged to be used outside of the cabin for operating the suspension level system 2. The communication between the device 1 and the suspension level system 2 may be performed, as mentioned above, by means of wired or wireless communication. A detachably mounted device 1 according to this embodiment can be preferable when the driver or any other person need to operate the suspension level system 2 from the outside of the cabin, e.g. in a loading situation controlling the level of the rear suspension. It should also be noted that the motor vehicle 3 may comprise two or more devices 1 according to the invention, where a first device 1 is fixed mounted on the panel for inside use, while a second device 1 is arranged for outside use.
It should be understood that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, but also relates to and incorporates all embodiments within the scope of the appended independent claims.

Claims

Claims
1. Device (1 ) for operating a suspension level system (2) in a motor vehicle (3), wherein said device (1 ) comprises a first manually operated switch (4) arranged to be in communication with said suspension level system (2) for operating the same, wherein said first manually operated switch (4) is arranged to be mechanically operable in a plurality of positions, each position selecting a function among a plurality of functions provided by said suspension level system (2), wherein the device (1 ) further comprising a second manually operated switch (5) arranged to be in communication with said suspension level system (2) for controlling said selected function provided by said suspension level system (2), where said first manually operated switch (4) is a rotatable knob (44) having a plurality of predetermined discrete positions for selecting a function, c h a r a c t e r i s e d i n - that said second manually operated switch (5) comprises two buttons (55, 55') for controlling said selected function, and
- that said rotatable knob (44) is in the shape of an annular ring surrounding said one or more buttons (55, 55'), which when being rotated into a predetermined discrete position admit selection of a function, wherein identification of the selected function is done by means of a plurality of symbols arranged adjacent to the associated positions of the first manually operated switch 4
2. Device (1 ) according to claim 1 , wherein said first manually operated switch (4) further comprises controlling means for controlling said selected function provided by said suspension level system (2).
3. Device (1 ) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein said first manually operated switch (4) is mechanically operable in:
- a first degree of freedom for selecting a function, and - a second degree of freedom for controlling said selected function.
4. Device (1 ) according to claim 1 , wherein said two buttons (55, 55') are push buttons arranged to control different functions provided by said suspension level system (2) depending on the time said push buttons are pressed down.
5. Device (1 ) according to any of claims 1 -4, wherein controlling said selected function (F) involves: raise/lower front (21 ) suspension, raise/lower rear (22) suspension, raise/lower front (21 ) and rear (22) suspension, raise/lower tag axle (23), increase/decrease load transfer, set to drive level, activate/deactivate exhausted bellows (24), set memory, and activate/deactivate memory setting.
6. Device (1 ) according to any of claims 1 -5, further comprising a plurality of symbols (7) corresponding to a function provided by said suspension level system (2), wherein each symbol (7) is arranged adjacent to an associated position for identifying a selected function.
7. Device (1 ) according to any of claims 1 -6, wherein said device (1 ) is mounted on a panel (8) in a cabin of said motor vehicle (3).
8. Device (1 ) according to any of claims 1 -7, wherein said device (1 ) is arranged to be detachably mounted on said panel (8), and is further arranged to be used outside said cabin for operating said suspension level system (2).
9. Device (1 ) according to any of claims 1 -8, wherein said device (1 ) is arranged to be in communication with said suspension level system (2) by means of wired or wireless communication.
10. Motor vehicle (3) comprising at least one device (1 ) for operating a suspension level system (2) according to any of claims 1 -9.
11. System comprising a suspension level system (2) for a motor vehicle (3) and at least one device (1 ) for operating the suspension level system (2) according to any of claims 1 -9.
PCT/SE2010/050452 2009-05-06 2010-04-23 Device for operating a suspension level system in a vehicle Ceased WO2010128933A1 (en)

Priority Applications (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
BRPI1006255-6A BRPI1006255B1 (en) 2009-05-06 2010-04-23 device for operating a suspension level system in a vehicle, motor vehicle and system
CN201080019931.6A CN102414768B (en) 2009-05-06 2010-04-23 Device for operating a suspension level system in a vehicle
DE112010001904.5T DE112010001904B4 (en) 2009-05-06 2010-04-23 Device for operating a level control in a vehicle
RU2011149477/07A RU2478237C1 (en) 2009-05-06 2010-04-23 Device to actuate vehicle suspension level control system

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
SE0950315-2 2009-05-06
SE0950315A SE534890C2 (en) 2009-05-06 2009-05-06 Device for operating a suspension level system in a vehicle

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2010128933A1 true WO2010128933A1 (en) 2010-11-11

Family

ID=43050279

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/SE2010/050452 Ceased WO2010128933A1 (en) 2009-05-06 2010-04-23 Device for operating a suspension level system in a vehicle

Country Status (6)

Country Link
CN (1) CN102414768B (en)
BR (1) BRPI1006255B1 (en)
DE (1) DE112010001904B4 (en)
RU (1) RU2478237C1 (en)
SE (1) SE534890C2 (en)
WO (1) WO2010128933A1 (en)

Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2014070083A1 (en) * 2012-10-29 2014-05-08 Scania Cv Ab Method and system for load transfer in a vehicle
WO2014124944A1 (en) * 2013-02-12 2014-08-21 Haldex Brake Products Gmbh Vehicle suspension system

Families Citing this family (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP3072716A1 (en) 2015-03-27 2016-09-28 Haldex Brake Products GmbH Pneumatic spring unit
US10276324B1 (en) * 2017-10-31 2019-04-30 Google Llc Keypad device with rocker button mechanism

Citations (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4857677A (en) * 1987-03-04 1989-08-15 Anritsu Corporation Dial device
WO1996018226A1 (en) * 1994-12-08 1996-06-13 Pharmacia Biotech Ab Instrument panel
US5877463A (en) * 1995-03-31 1999-03-02 Daewood Electronics Co., Ltd. Shuttle switch assembly
SE512146C2 (en) * 1997-01-24 2000-01-31 Volvo Ab Device and box for driving position control for an air-sprung vehicle
DE10059793A1 (en) * 2000-12-01 2002-06-13 Volkswagen Ag Multifunction control device for motor vehicle has at least one bi-directionally rotatable control element with setting ring enclosing axially operated control elements
US20020175467A1 (en) * 2001-02-28 2002-11-28 Dicus Jack T. Joystick actuated vehicle suspension control system
WO2008083775A2 (en) * 2006-12-21 2008-07-17 Daimler Ag Operating and display system for a level control system of a vehicle, especially for a coach or a utility vehicle

Family Cites Families (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
SU419997A1 (en) * 1971-10-06 1974-03-15 Г. М. Дулесов , С. А. Егоров SWITCH

Patent Citations (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4857677A (en) * 1987-03-04 1989-08-15 Anritsu Corporation Dial device
WO1996018226A1 (en) * 1994-12-08 1996-06-13 Pharmacia Biotech Ab Instrument panel
US5877463A (en) * 1995-03-31 1999-03-02 Daewood Electronics Co., Ltd. Shuttle switch assembly
SE512146C2 (en) * 1997-01-24 2000-01-31 Volvo Ab Device and box for driving position control for an air-sprung vehicle
DE10059793A1 (en) * 2000-12-01 2002-06-13 Volkswagen Ag Multifunction control device for motor vehicle has at least one bi-directionally rotatable control element with setting ring enclosing axially operated control elements
US20020175467A1 (en) * 2001-02-28 2002-11-28 Dicus Jack T. Joystick actuated vehicle suspension control system
WO2008083775A2 (en) * 2006-12-21 2008-07-17 Daimler Ag Operating and display system for a level control system of a vehicle, especially for a coach or a utility vehicle

Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2014070083A1 (en) * 2012-10-29 2014-05-08 Scania Cv Ab Method and system for load transfer in a vehicle
WO2014124944A1 (en) * 2013-02-12 2014-08-21 Haldex Brake Products Gmbh Vehicle suspension system

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
DE112010001904B4 (en) 2019-11-07
BRPI1006255A2 (en) 2018-06-12
CN102414768B (en) 2014-06-04
RU2478237C1 (en) 2013-03-27
SE534890C2 (en) 2012-02-07
DE112010001904T5 (en) 2012-06-21
BRPI1006255B1 (en) 2020-12-29
CN102414768A (en) 2012-04-11
SE0950315A1 (en) 2010-11-07

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US8543278B2 (en) Operating device and method for trailer vehicles
EP2431210B1 (en) Automotive human machine interface
US11247585B2 (en) Vehicle seat with operating device
EP3678887A1 (en) Steering device for a vehicle, in particular an electric vehicle
US20080272562A1 (en) Height Adjustment System for a Vehicle
WO2010128933A1 (en) Device for operating a suspension level system in a vehicle
CN105966323B (en) Vehicle interfaces system
US8424848B1 (en) Vehicle jack for use on vehicles to change tires and for other purposes
KR20010043448A (en) Control device
US11919463B1 (en) Comprehensive user control system for vehicle
US20060284448A1 (en) Lorry
CN100436174C (en) Structures used in vehicles with air suspension
US7516811B2 (en) Vehicle accessory pedal and method
JP4895101B2 (en) Vehicle control setting device
KR101096808B1 (en) Switch module for power take-offs of special vehicles
CN101528488B (en) Method for calibrating the axle load display of an ecas level control system
CN108124437A (en) The inte-grated switch device of working truck and the working truck with set switching device
JP2007165246A (en) Multifunctional switch device
KR100916206B1 (en) Retarder Braking System
CN2598826Y (en) Multifunctional steering wheel
SE518870C2 (en) function Panel
CN116001567A (en) Vehicle function operation apparatus and method
KR20230108936A (en) Steering wheel, vehicle comprising the steering wheel, and control method of the vehicle
CN118004930A (en) Material handling vehicle mode switching system and method
KR101190445B1 (en) Remote control system and method thereof for use in a vehicular audio/video system

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
WWE Wipo information: entry into national phase

Ref document number: 201080019931.6

Country of ref document: CN

121 Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application

Ref document number: 10772335

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1

DPE1 Request for preliminary examination filed after expiration of 19th month from priority date (pct application filed from 20040101)
WWE Wipo information: entry into national phase

Ref document number: 7652/DELNP/2011

Country of ref document: IN

WWE Wipo information: entry into national phase

Ref document number: 1120100019045

Country of ref document: DE

Ref document number: 112010001904

Country of ref document: DE

ENP Entry into the national phase

Ref document number: 2011149477

Country of ref document: RU

Kind code of ref document: A

122 Ep: pct application non-entry in european phase

Ref document number: 10772335

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1

REG Reference to national code

Ref country code: BR

Ref legal event code: B01A

Ref document number: PI1006255

Country of ref document: BR

ENP Entry into the national phase

Ref document number: PI1006255

Country of ref document: BR

Kind code of ref document: A2

Effective date: 20111006