WO2012016178A1

WO2012016178A1 - Tire inflation system with discrete deflation circuit

Info

Publication number: WO2012016178A1
Application number: PCT/US2011/045955
Authority: WO
Inventors: Matt Wilson; Jesse Cervantez; Santo Padula
Original assignee: Hendrickson Usa, L.L.C.
Priority date: 2010-07-30
Filing date: 2011-07-29
Publication date: 2012-02-02
Also published as: AU2011282541B2; MX2012014029A; AU2011282541A1; EP3168065B1; BR112013000953A2; EP2598348B1; CN103025546A; EP2598348A4; BR112013000953B1; CA2805057C; CN103025546B; NZ603711A; US8973633B2; EP3168065A1; CN107650592B; EP2598348A1; NZ701870A; CN105644278A; CA2805057A1; CN107650592A

Abstract

A vehicle tire inflation system includes an air supply source in fluid communication with multiple tires of the vehicle. A pneumatic conduit extends between and is in fluid communication with the air supply source and the tires. Means are fluidly connected to the pneumatic conduit for enabling selective inflation and deflation of the tires. The means include a first pneumatic circuit for inflation of the tires, and a second pneumatic circuit for deflation of the tires. The second pneumatic circuit is discrete from the first pneumatic circuit and is common to more than one of the tires. The means provides controlled deflation of the tires in the second pneumatic circuit based upon a predetermined condition, preventing deflation of the tires until the vehicle is parked, or limiting the deflation of the tires, which in turn enables the tire inflation system to accommodate a desirable increased pressure in the tires.

Description

TIRE IN FLATION SYSTEM WITH DISCRETE DEFLATION CIRCUIT

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This appl ication claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61 369, 1 59, which was filed on July 30, 2010.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

TECHNICAL FIELD

The invention relates to the art of tire inflation systems. More particularly, the invention relates to tire inflation systems for heavy-duty vehicles such as trucks and tractor-trailers or semi-trailers, which can operate as the vehicles are moving. Still more particularly, the invention is directed to a tire inflation system which includes a tire deflation circuit that is discrete or separate from an inflation circuit, thereby enabling control of tire deflation based on specific predetermined conditions.

BACKGROUND A RT

Heavy-duty vehicles typically include trucks and tractor-trailers or semi-trailers. Tractor-trailers and semi -trai lers, which shall collectively be referred to as tractor-trailers for the purpose of convenience, include at least one trai ler, and sometimes two or three trailers, all of which are pulled by a single tractor All heavy-duty vehicles that are trucks or tractor-trailers include multiple tires, each of which is inflated with a fluid or gas, such as air, to an optimum or recommended pressure. This optimum or recommended tire pressure typically is referred to in the art as the target inflation pressure or the target pressure.

However, it is w ell known that air ma> leak from a tire, usually in a gradual manner, but sometimes rapidly i f there is a problem w ith the tire, such as a defect or a puncture caused by a road hazard. As a result, it is necessary to regularly check the air pressure in each tire to ensure that the tires are not significantly below the target pressure and thus under-inflated. Should an air check show that a tire is under-inflated, it is desirable to enable air to flow into the tire to return it to the target pressure. Likewise, it is well known that the air pressure in a tire may increase due to increases in ambient air temperature, so that it is necessary to regularly check the air pressure in each tire to ensure that the tires are not greatly above the target pressure and thus over-inflated. Should an air check show that a tire is over-inflated, it is desirable to enable air to flow out of the tire to return it to the target pressure.

The large number of tires on any given heavy-duty veh icle setup makes it difficult to manual ly check and maintain the target pressure for each and every tire. This difficulty is compounded bv the fact that trailers of tractor-trailers or trucks in a fleet may be located at a site for an extended period of time, during which the tire pressure might not be checked. Any one of these trai lers or trucks might be placed into service at a moment's notice, leading to the possibi l ity of operation with under-inflated or over-inflated tires. Such operation may increase the chance of less-than-optimum performance and/or reduced life of a tire in service as compared to operation with tires at the target pressure, or within an optimum range of the target pressure.

Moreover, should a tire encounter a condition as the vehicle travels over-the-road that causes the tire to become under-inflated, such as developing a leak from striking a road hazard, or over-inflated, such as increasing pressure from an increased ambient air temperature, the life and/or performance of the tire may be signi ficantly reduced if the under-inflation or over- inflalion continues unabated as the vehicle travels. The potential for signi ficantly reduced tire l ife typically increases in vehicles such as trucks or tractor-trailers that travel for long distances and/or extended periods of time.

Such a need to maintain the target pressure in each tire, and the inconvenience to the vehicle operator to manually check and maintain a proper tire pressure that is at or near the target pressure, led to the development of prior art tire inflation systems. In these prior art systems, an operator selects a target inflation pressure for the vehicle tires. The system then monitors th pressure in each tire and attempts to maintain the air pressure in each tire at or near the target pressure by inflating the tire when the monitored pressure drops below the target pressure. These prior art tire inflation systems inflate the tires by providing air from the air supply of the vehicle to the tires by using a variety of different components, arrangements, and/or methods. In prior art systems that are also capable of deflation, the system deflates the tire when the monitored pressure rises above the target pressure by venting air from the tires to atmosphere.

Whi le being satisfactory for their intended functions, tire inflation systems of the prior art may experience disadvantages in certain situations. More particularly, many prior art tire inflation systems are not capable of deflation. As a result, when the air pressure in a tire increases to a level that is greatly above the target pressure due to increases in ambient air temperature, these systems are not able to reduce the pressure in the tires. As a result, such prior art lire inflation systems may allow the tires to operate in a significantly over-inflated condition, which undesirably decreases performance of the tires and in turn decreases the life of the tires.

In addition, in those prior art tire inflation systems having a deflation capability, the systems general ly inflate and deflate the vehicle tires through the same components, circuit or path of pneumatic conduit, valves and the l ike that extend from the vehicle air supply to the tires, which is referred to herein as a circuit. Use of the same circuit for inflation and deflation functions has been achieved in the prior art by employing electronically-controlled systems that include electronically-actuated solenoid valves. With a solenoid valve, when it is desired to in flate the tires, an electronic controller actuates the valve to move the valve to a position that enables air to flow from the air reservoir to the vehicle tires. When it is desired to deflate the tires, the electronic controller actuates the valve to move the valve to a position that exhausts air from the tires to atmosphere. Such prior an deflation-capable tire in flation systems have certain disadvantages. First, prior art tire inflation systems only maintain the inflation pressure in the tires at the target pressure, and lack the ability to accommodate an increased tire pressure based on operating conditions. More particularly, the desired target inflation pressure typically is selected by the vehicle operator based on what is known in the art as a cold inflation pressure or cold pressure, which is the inflation pressure of the tires when the vehicle remains parked. In many- cases, the tire manu facturer recommends a target pressure that is at a cold pressure setting for a specific.axle load.

However, as the vehicle operates and travels over-the-road, the energy and forces associated with the travel cause the temperature of each vehicle tire to increase. When the temperature of the tire increases, the air inside the tire expands. Because the volume of the tire is limited, the expansion of air causes the air pressure inside the tire to increase above the cold inflation pressure. This increased air pressure is typically referred to as the operating pressure of the tires. By way of example, the operating pressure may be about fi fteen ( 15) pounds per square inch (psi) greater than the cold pressure of each tire in a typical heavy-duty vehicle dual- wheel configuration. In fact, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recommends adding about 1 5 psi to a cold pressure setting when checking pressure while the tires are at their operating temperature. The increase to the operating pressure is desirable, as tire manufacturers typically rcl> on the increase to compensate for lower side wall stiffness of the tire as its temperature increases during over-the-road travel, and thus often design heavy-duty vehicle tires to provide optimum performance at the operating pressure.

Because the vehicle operator typically selects a target inflation pressure for the tires which is at the cold inflation pressure, prior art tire inflation systems inflate or deflate the tires as needed to arrive at this cold target pressure. However, as described above, as the vehicle operates, the air pressure in the tires increases from the cold pressure to the higher operating pressure. Because prior art tire inflation systems only maintain the inflation pressure in the tires at the target pressure, as the air pressure in the tires increases during vehicle operation, the systems deflate the tires down from the optimum operating pressure to the lower cold target pressure. Due to this lack of ability to accommodate an increased tire pressure based on operating conditions, prior art tire inflation systems often maintain the inflation pressure of the tires at a level that is below the optimum operating pressure, which decreases tire performance, and thus vehicle performance.

In the event that the vehicle operator attempts to prevent a prior art in flation system from deflating the tires down from the optimum operating pressure to the lower cold target pressure by selecting a target inflation pressure which is at the higher operating pressure, undesirable demands may be placed on the system. More particularly, because the operating pressure is higher than the cold pressure, the operating pressure may approach or be at a pressure level that is not available in the vehicle air supply, or which would require the vehicle air supply to be maintained at an undesirably high level. The requirement of maintaining such a pressure level in the vehicle air supply places undesirable demands on the tire inflation system, which in turn reduces the performance and/or the l ife of the system. As a result, it is not practical to attempt to prevent prior art systems from deflating the tires down from the optimum operating pressure to the lower cold target pressure by selecting a target inflation pressure that is at the operating pressure.

A second disadvantage of prior art tire inflation systems is that most systems which are capable of both inflation and deflation are electronical ly controlled, which is undesirably expensive, complex, and potential ly independable. For example, electronical ly-controlled systems typical l> involve electronically-operated olenoid valves, electronic controllers, and other electronic components, which are expensive and are often complex to install and configure. In addition, these electrical components require the use of the electrical system of the vehicle, which may be unreliable or even non-functional at times, and in turn renders the operation of the tire inflation system unreliable and potentially non-functional. A third disadvantage of prior art tire inflation systems is that the electronic systems are not constant-pressure systems. More particularly, when the system is not performing inflation, the pneumatic conduit of the system is exhausted to atmosphere and thus does not actively monitor tire pressure. In such a system, without air pressure in the pneumatic conduit, electronic controls are employed to periodically check tire pressure, and to in turn trigger or commence inflation. Because such prior art systems are capable of only providing a periodic check of tire pressure, any inflation to bring the tires to the target pressure on ly takes place following the periodic check. This lack of ability of prior art systems to continuously monitor tire pressure and dynam ically respond to pressure changes undesirably reduces the ability of the system to actively or quickly respond to reduced tire pressure conditions, such as in the case of an air leak. Moreover, as mentioned above, the electronic controls that are employed by prior art tire inflation systems to determ ine when it is necessary to trigger or commence inflation are expensive, complex, and require power from the electrical system of the vehicle, which may be unreliable.

A fourth disadvantage of prior art tire inflation systems occurs in certain pneumatically- control led systems wh ich are constant-pressure systems, that is, systems that maintain air pressure at all times in a pneumatic conduit extending between the vehicle air reservoir and the tires. Some of these constant-pressure systems include a wheel valve that is capable of deflation, which keeps the inflation path from the air reservoir to the tires open. As is known to those ski lled in the art, when a vehicle is parked for an extended period of time, the pneumatic pressure in the air reservoir may drop or bleed down due to small air leaks that are typical in any pneumatic system. Because prior art constant-pressure systems that include a wheel valve which is capable of deflation keep the inflation path from the air reservoir to the tires open, when the pneumatic pressure in the air reservoir drops, the pneumatic pressure in the tires also drops. This pressure drop ma> be up to 25 psi or more, at which point the wheel valve typically closes to eliminate an even greater pressure drop. However, when the vehicle is started up to prepare for over-the-road travel, the tire inflation system must re-inflate each lire up to or near the target pressure, which may thus involve adding about 25 psi to each one of eight or more tires. This re-inflation process typical ly takes a great deal of time and places repeated demands on the tire inflation system, which may reduce the life of the s> stem. In addition, the vehicle operator may not wait for the tires to be re- in flated to the target pressure before operating the vehicle, which in turn causes the tires to be operated in an under-inflated condition until the target pressure, is reached. Such operation reduces the life of the tires. As a result, it is desirable for a constant-pressure tire inflation system to optional ly include a feature that would isolate the tires from the air reservoir and other components of the system when the vehicle is parked, thereby minimizing pressure loss from the tires and in turn minim izing the subsequent time and demand on the system that is required to provide significant re-inflation of the tires.

A fi fth disadvantage of prior art lire inflation systems occurs in certain pneumatically- controlled, constant-pressure systems that do not include a wheel valve that is capable of deflation. More particularly, without a wheel valve that is capable of deflation, such prior art systems cannot respond to excessive increased tire pressure from an increased ambient air temperature, as described above for prior art systems that are not capable of deflation. As a result, such prior art tire inflation systems may al low the tires to operate in a significantly over- in flated condition, which undesirably decreases performance of the tires and in turn decreases the li fe of the tires.

As a result, there is a need in the art for a tire inflation system that overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art by providing control of the conditions under which deflation occurs, by providing a system that has the ability to accommodate an increased tire pressure due to operating conditions, does not employ electronic components and thereby is more economical, simpler, more dependable and more efficient than tire inflation systems of the prior art, and which is a constant-pressure system that is capable of deflation and optionally includes a feature that enables isolation of the tires from the air reservoir and other components of the system when the vehicle is parked to minimize pressure loss. The tire inflation system with discrete deflation circuit of the present invention satisfies this need, as will be described in detail below.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

An objective of the present invention is to provide a tire inflation system that includes control of the conditions under which deflation through the system occurs.

Another objective of the present invention is to provide a tire inflation system that has the ability to accommodate an increased tire pressure, which is due to operating conditions.

Yet another objective of the present invention is to provide a tire inflation system that docs not employ electronic components, and thus is more economical, simpler, more dependable and more efficient than tire inflation systems of the prior art.

Stil l another objective of the present invention is to provide a tire inflation system that is a constant-pressure system which is capable of deflation.

Yet another objective of the present invention is to provide a tire inflation system that optionally inc ludes a feature w hich enables isolation of the tires from the air reservoir and other components of the system when the vehicle is parked in order to minimize pressure loss.

These objectives and others are obtained by the tire inflation system with discrete deflation circuit of the present invention. By way of example, the vehicle tire inflation system includes an air supply source in fluid communication with a plural ity of tires of the vehicle. A pneumatic conduit extends between and is in fluid communication with the air supply source and the tires. Means are fluidly connected to the pneumatic conduit for enabling selective inflation and deflation of the tires. The means include a first pneumatic circuit for inflation of the tires, and a second pneumatic circuit for deflation of the tires. The second pneumatic circu it is discrete from the first pneumatic circuit and is common to more than one of the tires. The means provide controlled deflation of the tires in the second pneumatic circuit based upon a predetermined condition, enabling the tire inflation system to accommodate an increased pressure in the tires.

These objectives and others are obtained by the tire inflation system with discrete deflation circuit of the present invention. By way of additional example, the vehicle tire inflation system includes an air supply source in fluid communication with a plurality of tires of the vehicle. Λ pneumatic conduit extends between and is in fluid communication with the air supply source and the tires. A tire isolation pilot valve is in fluid communication with the pneumatic conduit and is equipped with means for monitoring a condition of the vehicle. The tire isolation pilot valve interrupts the fluid communication between the air supply source and the tires to pneumatically isolate the tires when the vehicle is in a parked condition, which minimizes a pneumatic pressure loss of the tires.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

The preferred embodiments of the present invention, i llustrative of the best mode in which Appl icants have contemplated applying the principles, are set forth in the following description and arc shov» n in the drawings, and are particularly and distinctly pointed out and set forth in the appended claims.

FIG. 1 A is a schematic diagram of a first exemplary embod iment of the tire inflation system with discrete deflation circuit of the present invention, shown indicating an inflation mode;

FIG. I B is a schematic diagram of the embodiment of the tire inflation system shown in FIG. I A, but shown indicating a deflation mode;

FIG. 2A is a schematic diagram of a second exemplary embodiment of the tire inflation system with discrete deflation circuit of the present invention, shown indicating an inflation mode; FIG. 2B is a schematic diagram of the embodiment of the tire inflation system shown in FIG. 2A, but shown indicating a deflation mode;

FIG. 3Λ is a schematic diagram of a third exemplary embodiment of the tire inflation system with discrete deflation circuit of the present invention, shown indicating an inflation mode;

FIG. 3B is a schematic diagram of the embodiment of the tire inflation system shown in FIG. 3Λ, but shown indicating a deflation mode;

FIG. 4A is a schematic diagram of a fourth exemplary embodiment of the tire inflation system with discrete deflation circuit of the present invention, shown indicating an inflation mode;

FIG. 4B is a schematic diagram of the embodiment of the tire inflation system shown in FIG. 4A, but shown indicating a deflation mode;

FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of an optional tire isolation system of the tire inflation system, shown incorporated into a representative tire inflation system with discrete deflation circuit of the present invention;

FIG. 6A is a schematic diagram of a fifth exemplary embodiment of the tire inflation system with discrete deflation circuit of the present invention, incorporating a deflation circuit similar to the fourth embodiment tire inflation system shown in FIG. 4A with the optional tire isolation system shown in FIG. 5, and shown indicating an inflation mode;

FIG. 6B is a schematic diagram of the embodiment of the tire inflation system shown in

FIG. 6A, but shown indicating a deflation mode;

FIG. 7 is a schematic representation of a cross-sectional view of an exemplary relieving regulator for use in the first and third exemplary embodiments of the tire inflation system with discrete deflation circuit of the present invention, shown in FIGS. I A- l B and 3A-3B; and

FIG. 8 is a schematic representation of a cross-sectional view of another exemplary relieving regulator for use in the first and third exemplary embodiments of the tire inflation system with discrete deflation circuit of the present invention, shown in FIGS. ! A- I B and 3A- 3B.

Simi lar numerals refer to simi lar parts throughout the drawings. DETAILED DESCRI PTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to a tire inflation system which includes a deflation circuit that is discrete or separate from an in flation circuit. The discrete deflation circuit enables control led deflation of tires, based on specific predetermined conditions, which will be described in the exemplary embodiments of the invention. Use of these specific predetermined conditions prevents deflation of the tires until the vehicle is parked, or limits the amount of deflation of the tires, which in turn prevents the tire pressure from falling below a minimum predetermined pressure, such as a m inimum recommended pressure for a specific vehicle load as set by UTS A and/or the tire manufacturer. It is to be understood that reference hereinbelow to the term target pressure means the desired target inflation pressure as selected by the vehicle operator based on the cold in flation pressure or cold pressure of the vehicle tires.

Turning now to FIG. 1 A, a first exemplary embodiment of the tire inflation system with discrete deflation circuit of the present invention is indicated generally at 10. FIG. I A shows tire inflation system 10 in an inflation mode, and the direction of air flow is generally indicated by arrows I . Tire inflation system 10 includes a vehicle air supply or source 12 of pressurized or compressed air. Vehicle air supply 12 typically is a reservoir tank and will be referred to hereinbelow for the purpose of convenience as a supply tank. Supply tank 12 is connected, by components to be described in detai l below, to vehicle tires 14. For the purpose of convenience, only a single tire M is illustrated in FIG. 1 A, but it is to be understood that tire inflation system 10 typically is utilized with multiple tires. A pneumatic conduit represented generally by the letter C, and including specific conduit sections or portions to be described in greater detail below, extends between and interconnects components of tire inflation system 10. More particularly, a first section I 5 of pneumatic conduit C extends between and is fluidly connected to supply tank 12 and to a supply valve 18. A second section 16 of pneumatic conduit C is fluidly connected to and extends from supply valve 18. Supply valve 18 preferably is a mechanically-operated regulator that is mechanically adjustable to a setting that actuates or opens the \ alve at the target pressure. Preferably, valve 1 is biased to a typically closed position, and when the air pressure in second pneumatic conduit section 16 drops below the target pressure, supply valve 18 opens to enable air to flow through the valve, as known to those skilled in the art. Once supply valve 18 is open, air is delivered from supply tank 12, through first pneumatic conduit section 15, and to second pneumatic conduit section 16.

Once the target pressure is reached in second pneumatic conduit section 16, supply valve 18 closes, as known in the art. The setting at which supply valve 1 8 opens and closes to achieve the target pressure is adjustable by mechanical means, such as by rotation of a knob, set screw, stem, and the like by a technician or vehicle operator, depending on system requirements. Also based upon system requirements, the means for adjusting supply valve 18 may be placed in a convenient location inside the vehicle cab (not shown), or outside of the vehicle cab, such as on the trailer of a tractor-trailer. Supply valve 18 preferably also includes a flow switch (not shown), which can detect an air flow leak, as known in the art. As will be described in greater detail below, in the event that the target pressure is exceeded in second pneumatic conduit section 16. supply valve 1 8 vents to atmosphere. It is to be understood that supply valve 18 may be any mechanically-operated valve known to those skilled in the art which is suitable for controlling air How in pneumatic conduit C.

When supply valve 18 is in an open position, pressurized air flows through the valve to second pneumatic conduit section 16, through a first tee fining 34 of a deflation circuit 24, which will be described in greater detail below, and through a third section 1 7 of pneumatic conduit C that extends between and is fluidl) connected to the first tee fitting and a first check valve 22. first check valve 22 is also part of deflation circuit 24. It is to be understood that deflation circuit 24 employs certain sections or portions of pneumatic conduit C and other components that are also used for inflation, as wi ll be described in greater detail below. A fter flowing through first check valve 22, air flows through a fourth section 19 of pneumatic conduit C that extends between and is fluidly connected to the first check valve and a second tee fitting 36 of 5 deflation circuit 24.

A fter flowing through second tee fitting 36 of deflation circuit 24, air flows through a fi fth section 20 of pneumatic conduit C that extends between and is fluidly connected to the second tee fitting of deflation circuit 24 and an isolation pilot valve 26 of an optional tire isolation system 1 30. Optional tire isolation system 130 and isolation pi lot valve 26 will also be

10 described in greater detai l below.

Once pressurized air flows through isolation pilot valve 26 of optional tire isolation system 1 30, it proceeds to a mechanically-operated wheel valve 28 through a sixth section 2 1 of pneumatic conduit C, which extends betw een and is tluidly connected to the isolation pilot valve and the wheel valve 28. Wheel valve 28 preferably is a diaphragm valve that isolates each tire

1 5 14 from the rest of tire inflation system. More particularly, wheel valve 28 preferably is spring biased and actuates or opens the wheel valve at a selected pressure setting or pressure level that is below the target pressure, thereby enabling maximum air flow to tires 14 from tire inflation system 10. This selected pressure setting or pressure level is less than the minimum pressure that would be expected to be uti lized as a target tire pressure. In this manner, wheel valve 28 0 remains open during all normal operating conditions of the vehicle and the tire(s) 14, and closes in the event of an extreme condition, such as low or insufficient pressure in sixth pneumatic conduit section 21 .

A seventh section 30 of pneumatic conduit C is fluidly connected to and extends between wheel valve 28 and a tire valve 32. Tire valve 32, which preferabl) is a Schrader valve, is5 pneumatically connected to tire 14 as known in the art. Tire valve 32 typically is spring-biased to a closed position, and typically is open only when mechanical means are employed to hold it open. Preferably, seventh pneumatic conduit section 30 includes a fitting (not shown) that holds tire valve 32 open by mechanical means while the seventh pneumatic conduit section is connected to the tire valve to enable inflation of tire 14. In this manner, when tire inflation system 1 0 is in an inflation mode, air flows via pneumatic conduit C from supply tank 12, through supply valve 18, isolation pilot valve 26 of optional tire isolation system 1 30, wheel valve 28, tire valve 32, and into tire 14.

Turn ing now to FIG. I B, first embodiment tire inflation system 10 is shown in a deflation mode, and the direction of air flow is generally indicated by arrows D. Deflation circuit 24 of first embod iment tire inflation system 10 employs a fixed differential deflation pressure as the condition under which deflation of tire 14 occurs, thereby enabling controlled deflation of the tire. More particularly, deflation circuit 24 is pneumatically connected to and includes certain sections or portions of pneumatic conduit C.

By way of example, in one type of configuration, deflation circuit 24 includes first and second pneumatic fittings 34 and 36, respectively, which preferably are tee fittings. First and second fittings 34 and 36 arc spaced apart from one another and are fluidly connected to pneumatic conduit C. As described above, first tee fitting 34 is fluidly connected to and extends between second pneumatic conduit section 16 and third pneumatic conduit section 17, whi le second tee fitting 36 is fluidly connected to and extends between fourth pneumatic conduit section 19 and fifth pneumatic conduit section 20. First check valve 22 is disposed between first and second tee fittings 34 and 36, and is fluidly connected to third pneumatic conduit section 1 7 and fourth pneumatic conduit section 19. First check valve 22 enables air to flow in the direction from supply tank 12 to tires 14, but prevents air from flowing in the opposite direction, that is, from the tires to the supply tank.

Deflation circuit 24 further includes a deflation pneumatic conduit 38, which in turn includes a first deflation conduit section 38a and a second deflation conduit section 38b. First deflation condu it section 38a includes a first end 42 and a second end 44. First end 42 of first deflation conduit section 38a is fluidly connected to first tee fitting 34, which provides fluid communication between second pneumatic conduit section 16 and the first deflation conduit section. Second deflation conduit section 38b includes a first end 46 and a second end 48. First end 46 of second deflation conduit section 38b is fluidly connected to second tee fitting 36, which provides fluid communication between fifth pneumatic conduit section 20 and the second deflation conduit section.

Second end 44 of first deflation conduit section 38a is fluidly connected to a second check valve 40, and second end 48 of second deflation conduit section 38b is also fluidly connected to the second check valve, in this manner, second check valve 40 is fluidly connected to and extends between first deflation conduit section 38a and second deflation conduit section 38b. Second check valve 40 enables air to flow in the direction from tires 14 to supply tank 12, but prevents air from flowing in the opposite direction, that is, from the supply tank to the tires. In . addition, second check valve 40 is biased to only al low air to flow from the direction of tires 14 to supply tank 1 2 when the pneumatic pressure in second deflation pneumatic conduit section 38b is ai least a fixed di fferential or predeterm ined amount greater than the target pressure. This fixed differential or predeterm ined amount is referred to herein as X.

An example of a preferred fixed differential X is the difference between the cold pressure of the t ires and the operating pressure of the tires. As described above, when the heavy-duty vehicle has been parked for a period of time, the air pressure in the tires of the vehicle moves to a pressure level that is referred to as the cold pressure. The cold pressure typically is the recommended pressure from the tire manufacturer for a specific axle load. Then, as the vehicle travels over-the-road, the energy and forces associated with the travel cause the temperature of each vehicle tire to increase. When the temperature of the tire increases, the air inside the tire expands. Because the volume of the tire is lim ited, the expansion of air causes the air pressure inside the tire to increase. This increased air pressure is typically referred to as the operating pressure of the tires. Often, the operating pressure of the tires of a typical heavy-duty vehicle dual-wheel configuration is about fifteen ( 1 5) pounds per square inch (psi) greater or higher than the cold pressure of the tires, as NHTSA recommends adding about 15 psi to a cold pressure setting when checking pressure while the tires are at their operating temperature. As a result, a preferred fixed di fferential X is the difference between the cold pressure and the operating pressure, that is, about 1 5 psi.

Of course, other pressure amounts or levels that account for the difference between the cold pressure and the operating pressure of a specific tire or tire arrangement are contemplated by tire inflation system of the present invention 10, without affecting the concept or operation of the invention.

The desirable effect of the use of fixed di fferential X in deflation circuit 24 of first embodiment tire inflation system 10 is illustrated by the operation of the system. More particularly, as described above, the vehicle operator or a technician selects a target pressure by adjusting supply valve 1 8 using means that are placed in a convenient location inside the vehicle cab, or outside of the vehicle cab, such as on the trailer of a tractor-trailer, depending on system requirements. As shown in FIG. I A, when inflation of tires 14 is required, supply valve 1 8 is opened or actuated, enabl ing air to flow from supply tank 12, through first pneumatic conduit section 1 5, through the supply valve and to second pneumatic conduit section 16. first tee fitting 34 of deflation circuit 24 and third pneumatic conduit section 1 7. First check valve 22 ensures that air continues to flow from third pneumatic conduit section 17 through fourth pneumatic conduit section 19 to second tee fitting 36 of deflation circuit 24, through fifth pneumatic condu it section 20 and to isolation pilot valve 26 of optional tire isolation system 130. A ir then flows through sixth pneumatic conduit section 2 1 , wheel valve 28, seventh pneumatic conduit section 30, and into tires 14. Second check valve 40 ensures that air flows through second, third, fourth and fi fth pneumatic conduit sections 1 6, 1 7, 19 and 20, respectively during the inflation process, rather than flowing through deflation conduit 38. Once the target pressure is reached, supply valve 1 8 closes. Because tire inflation system 10 is a constant-pressure system, pneumatic pressure remains in second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth and seventh pneumatic conduit sections 16, 17, 19, 20, 21 and 30, respectively, and tires 14.

If the pneumatic pressure in tires 14 increases, deflation of the tires may be necessary. In the prior art tire inflation s> stems that are not capable of deflation, tires 14 may operate in a significantly over-inflated condition, which undesirably decreases their performance and in turn decreases the li fe of the tires. In tire inflation systems of the prior art that are capable of deflation, the lack of ability to accommodate an increased tire pressure causes the systems to deflate tires 14 down from the optimum operating pressure to the lower cold-tire target pressure, which also undesirably decreases tire performance. However, deflation circuit 24 of first embodiment tire inflation system 1 0 limits deflation of tires 1 below a m inimum predetermined pressure, such as a minimum recommended pressure for a specific vehicle load as set by N HTSA and/or the tire manufacturer, which optimizes tire performance.

More speci fically, as shown in FIG. I B, first check valve 22 prevents air from flowing in the direction from tires 14 to supply tank 12. Thus, when the pneumatic pressure in tires 14 increases, the pressure increases in seventh, sixth, fifth and fourth pneumatic conduit sections 30, 2 1 , 20 and 19, respectively, to first check valve 22. First check valve 22 prevents the i ncreased pressure from proceeding directly through third and second pneumatic conduit sections 1 7 and 1 6, respectively, to suppl> valve 1 8. In this manner, first check valve 22 prevents supply valve 1 8 from exhausting air from second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth and seventh pneumatic conduit sections 16, 17, 19, 20, 21 and 30, and thus tires 14, down to a pressure that is below a recommended level.

Rather than reaching supply valve 1 8, air flows through second deflation conduit section 38b to second check valve 40. Second check valve 40 only allows air to pass or flow through it i f the pneumatic pressure is fixed di fferential X greater than the target pressure. For example, using a fixed di fferential X of 1 5 psi, which is the difference between the cold pressure and the operating pressure^'of tires 1 , second check valve 40 only allows air to flow through it when the pneumatic pressure is greater than the target pressure plus 15 psi. When the pneumatic pressure is greater than the target pressure plus 1 5 psi, air flows through second check valve 40, through first deflation conduit section 38a, through second pneumatic conduit section 16 and to supply valve 1 8. Supply valve 1 8 then exhausts air^' until the pressure in second pneumatic conduit section 16 drops below a level of the target pressure plus 15 psi, which then causes second check valve 40 to close and thus prevent further deflation.

In this manner, first embodiment tire inflation system 1 0 provides a constant-pressure system that includes discrete deflation circuit 24. Discrete deflation circuit 24 accommodates an increased tire pressure due to operating conditions by enabling deflation of tires 14 to be controlled, employing fixed differential deflation pressure X to prevent deflation of the tires below a minimum predetermined pressure, such as a minimum recommended pressure for a specific vehicle load as set by NHTSA and/or the tire manufacturer. In addition, by being a constant-pressure system and using mechanical components that are mechanically and/or pneumatical ly actuated, rather than components that are electrical ly actuated and rely on the electrical system of the trailer, first embodiment tire inflation system 1 0 is more reliable, more econom ical, and is easier to instal l and use than the electrically-actuated and electrically- controlled systems of the prior art.

It is to be understood that deflation circuit 24 of first embodiment tire inflation system 10 has been described with reference to the use of separate check valves 22, 40, tee fittings 34, 36, and conduit sections 16, 17, 19, 20. 38a, 38b for the purposes of clear illustration of the invention. Preferably, check valves 22, 40 are incorporated into a single or integrated valve body w ith corresponding passages in the val ve body, thereby eliminating one or more of tee fittings 34, 36 and conduit sections 16, 17, 19, 20, 38a, 38b, without affecting the overall concept or operation of the invention.

In addition, as described above, check valve 40 is biased to al low air to flow from the direction of tires 14 to supply tank 12 when the pneumatic pressure in second deflation pneumatic conduit section 38b is at least fixed differential X greater than the target pressure. Preferably, rather than employing supply valve 1 8 in combination with separate first check valve 22 and second check valve 40, the use of fixed differential X by deflation circuit 24 is accomplished through the use of a relieving regulator with a bui lt-in hysteresis for the supply valve. Such a construction eliminates check valves 22, 40 and associated tee fittings 34, 36 and conduit sections 17, 19, 38a, and 38b, without affecting the overal l concept or operation of the invention. A relieving regulator with a built-in hysteresis for supply valve 18 can be accompl ished using several types of structures.

A first exemplary rel ieving regulator with a built-in hysteresis 200 is shown in FIG. 7, and includes a body 202. A supply chamber 204 is formed in body 202, and is in selective fluid communication with an outlet chamber 206 that is also formed in the body. Disposed between supply chamber 204 and outlet chamber 206 is a supply check member 208. A pneumatic relief piston 2 10 selectively mechanical ly contacts supply check member 208. and is mechanically connected to a diaphragm 2 12 and a primary main spring 214. Adjustment of primary main spring 2 14 is provided by adjustment of a pressure adjustment screw 216. In an inflation mode, the pneumatic pressure in outlet chamber 206 is not sufficient to overcome the bias of primary main spring 2 14, so that the primary main spring moves diaphragm 212 in a downward direction. Downward movement of diaphragm 212 in turn moves pneumatic relief piston 210 and supply check member 208 downwardly, thereby enabling air to flow from supply chamber 204 past the supply check member to outlet chamber 206, and out of regulator 200.

Relieving regulator 200 also employs a secondary main spring 21 8 with a standing height, indicated by d l . Secondary main spring 2 1 8 resists diaphragm 2 12 when the diaphragm moves from a neutral position to a rel ieving position. More particularly, in a deflation or relieving mode, air enters regulator 200 through outlet chamber 206 and causes diaphragm 2 12 to move in an upward direction when the pneumatic pressure overcomes the bias of primary main spring 2 14 and secondary main spring 2 18. Upward movement of diaphragm causes relief piston 2 10 to move upwardly, which creates a gap between the relief piston and supply check member 208. Air then flows through the gap betw een relief piston 210 and supply check member 208, through a central bore 21 1 formed in the relief piston, and through an exhaust passage 220. As a result, with (he use of secondary main spring 21 8, the force that is required to relieve pneumatic pressure is greater than the force that is required to deliver pneumatic pressure. By adjusting the spring rate of secondary main spring 21 8, the hysteresis can be controlled. Preferably, secondary main spring 21 8 does not extend to pressure adjustment screw 2 1 6, so that adjustment of primary main spring 214 by the pressure adjustment screw does not affect the secondary main spring.

A second exemplary relieving regulator with a built-in hysteresis 222 is shown in FIG. 8, and is sim ilar in construction and operation to first exemplary relieving regulator 200 (FIG. 7). Ho ever, rather than employing secondary main spring 2 18, relieving regulator 222 emplo> s a supply check member 226 that includes a supply check poppet 224, which is mechanically attached to the supply check member. Supply check poppet 224 is aligned with the central bore of relief piston 2 10, as shown in FIG. 8. Alternatively, supply check poppet 224 may surround the outside diameter of relief piston 210. Supply check poppet 224 requires diaphragm 212 to move an upward distance or displacement indicated by d2 before allowing air to flow through central bore 21 1 of relief piston 210 and through exhaust passage 220. By requiring diaphragm 21 2 lo move distance d2 from a neutral position before regulator 222 starts to relieve air, supply check poppet 224 in turn requires the force to relieve pneumatic pressure to be greater than the force to del iver pneumatic pressure. By requiring movement of distance d2, supply check poppet 224 essential ly provides resistance against movement of diaphragm 2 12 that is in addition to the initial resistance provided by primary main spring 2 14 to relieve pneumatic pressure.

With reference now to FIG. 2A, a second exemplary embodiment of the tire inflation system vs itli discrete deflation circuit of the present invention is indicated generally at 50. FIG. 2A shows tire inflation system 50 in an inflation mode, and the direction of air flow is generally indicated by arrows I. Second embodiment tire inflation system 50 is generally similar in structure and operation to first embodiment tire inflation system 10, with the exception that the second embodiment tire inflation system employs a deflation circuit 52 and a predetermined condition that are different from the first embodiment tire inflation system. As a result, only the differences between second embodiment tire inflation system 50 and first embodiment tire inflation system 10 will be described below.

Second embodiment tire inflation system 50 employs a variable deflation pressure as the condition under which deflation occurs, as opposed to fixed differential deflation pressure X employed by first embodiment tire inflation system 10. More particularly, deflation circuit 52 is pneumatically connected to and includes a portion of pneumatic conduit C. By way of example, in one type of configuration, deflation circuit 52 also includes a first check valve 54, which is fluidly connected to second pneumatic conduit section 16. Because second pneumatic conduit section 16 extends to first check valve 54 without a tee fitting, second embodiment tire inflation system 50 eliminates third pneumatic conduit section 17 (FIG. 1 A), which is employed in first embodiment tire inflation system 10.

First check valve 54 of second embodiment tire inflation system 50 enables air to flow in the direction from supply tank 12 to tires 14, but prevents air from flowing in the opposite direction, that is, from the tires to the supply tank. Fourth pneumatic conduit section 19 is fluidly connected to and extends between first check valve 54 and a pneumatic fitting 56, which preferably is a tee fitting. Fifth pneumatic conduit section 20 is fluidly connected to and extends between tee fitting 56 and isolation valve 26 of optional tire isolation system 130.

Deflation circuit 52 further includes a deflation pneumatic conduit 58. Deflation pneumatic conduit 58 includes a first end 60 and a second end 62. First end 60 of deflation pneumatic conduit 58 is fluidly connected to tee fitting 56, which provides fluid communication between rl fih pneumatic conduit section 20 and the deflation pneumatic conduit. Second end 62 of deflation pneumatic conduit 58 is fluidly connected to a second check valve 64.

Turning now to FIG. 2B, second embodiment tire inflation system 50 is shown in a deflation mode, and the direction of air flow is generally indicated by arrows D. Second check valve 64 allow s air to flow in the direction from tires 14 to the second check valve to exhaust air directly to atmosphere 66 upon reaching a predetermined condition. More particularly, second check valve 64 is adjustable by mechanical means, such as by rotation of a knob, set screw, stem, and the like, to a setting that actuates or opens the check valve at a predetermined pressure level. The means for adjusting second check valve 64 may be placed in a convenient location inside the vehicle cab (not shown) or outside of the vehicle cab, such as on the trailer of a tractor-trailer, depending on system requirements. This pressure level is a predetermined level, referred to herein as Y. Predeterm ined level Y is adjustable by a vehicle operator or technician for a specific vehicle load and/or travel conditions through adjustment of second check valve 64, and thus is a variable deflation pressure employed by deflation circuit 52. For example, a preferred pressure level Y is the cold-tire target pressure plus 1 5 psi, so that i f the target pressure is 100 psi, Y would be 1 1 5 psi.

The desirable effect of the use of variable deflation pressure Y in deflation circuit 52 of second embodiment tire inflation system 50 is illustrated by the operation of the system. More particularly, as described above, the vehicle operator or a technician selects a target pressure, which is based on a cold inflation pressure, by adjusting supply valve 1 8. As shown in FIG. 2A, when inflation of tires 14 is required, supply valve 18 is opened or actuated, enabling air to flow from supply tank 12, through first pneumatic conduit section 1 5, through the supply valve and to second pneumatic conduit section 1 6. First check valve 54 ensures that air continues to flow through second pneumatic conduit section 16 to fourth pneumatic conduit section 19, tee fitting 56. fifth pneumatic conduit section 20, optional tire isolation pi lot valve 26, sixth pneumatic conduit section 2 1 , wheel valve 28, seventh pneumatic conduit section 30, and into tires 14. Once the target pressure is reached, supply valve 18 closes. Because tire inflation system 50 is a constant-pressure system, pneumatic pressure remains in second, fourth, fifth, sixth and seventh pneumatic conduit sections 1 6, 19, 20, 2 1 and 30, respectively, and tires 14.

If the pneumatic pressure in tires 14 increases, deflation of the tires may be necessary. In the prior art tire inflation sy stems that are not capable of deflation, tires 14 may operate in a sign ificantly over-inflated condition, which undesirably decreases their performance and in turn decreases the li fe of the tires. In tire inflation systems of the prior art that are capable of deflation, the lack of abil ity to accommodate an increased tire pressure causes the systems to deflate tires 14 down from the optimum operating pressure to the lower cold-tire target pressure, w hich undesirably decreases tire performance. However, deflation circuit 52 limits deflation of tires 14 below a minimum predetermined pressure, such as a minimum recommended pressure fur a specific vehicle load as set b> IMHTSA and/or the tire manufacturer, which optim izes tire performance.

More speci fically, as shown in FIG. 2B, first check valve 54 prevents air from flowing in the direction from tires 14 to supply tank 12. Thus, when the pneumatic pressure in tires 14 increases, the pressure increases in seventh, sixth, fifth and fourth pneumatic conduit sections 30, 2 1 , 20 and 1 , respectively, to first check valve 54. First check valve 54 prevents the increased pressure from proceeding directly through second pneumatic conduit section 16 to supply valve 1 8. In this manner, first check valve 54 prevents supply valve 1 8 from exhausting air from second, fourth, fi fth, sixth and seventh pneumatic conduit section 1 6, 1 , 20, 2 1 and 30, and thus tires 1 , down to a pressure that is below a recommended level.

Rather than reaching supply valve 1 8, air Hows through deflation pneumatic conduit 58 to second check valve 64. Second check valve 64 only al lows air to pass or flow through it i f the pneumatic pressure in deflation pneumatic conduit 58 is predeterm ined level Y psi. When the pneumatic pressure is greater than predetermined level Y, which is greater than the cold-tire target pressure, air flows through second check valve 64 and is exhausted to atmosphere 66 until the pneumatic pressure is reduced to predetermined level Y psi. Once the pneumatic pressure in deflation pneumatic conduit 58 drops below a level of Y psi, second check valve 64 closes and thus prevents further deflation.

In this manner, second embodiment tire inflation system 50 provides a constant-pressure sj stem that includes discrete deflation circuit 52. Discrete deflation circuit 52 accommodates an increased tire pressure due to operating conditions by enabling deflation of tires 14 to be controlled, employing variable deflation pressure Y to prevent deflation of the tires below a minimum predetermined pressure, such as a m inimum recommended pressure for a specific vehicle load as set by NHTSA and/or the tire manufacturer. In addition, by being a constant- pressure system and using mechanical components that are mechanically and/or pneumatically actuated, rather than components that are electrically actuated and rely on the electrical system of the trai ler, second embodiment tire inflation system 50 is more reliable, more economical, and is easier to install and use than the electrically-actuated and electrically-controlled systems of the prior art.

It is to be understood that deflation circuit 52 of second embodiment tire inflation system

50 has been described with reference to the use of separate check valves 54, 64, tee fitting 56, and conduit sections 16, 19, 20, 58 for the purposes of clear illustration of the invention. Preferably, check valve 54, 64 are incorporated into a single or integrated valve body with corresponding passages in the valve body, thereby eliminating tee fitting 56 and/or one or more conduit sections 16, 19, 20, 58, without affecting the overall concept or operation of the invention. In addition, as described above, second check valve 64 is mechanically adjustable to exhaust air directly to atmosphere 66 upon reaching predetermined condition Y. Preferably, rather than employing supply valve 1 8 in combination with separate first check valve 54 and second check valve 64, the adjustabil ity to achieve predeterm ined pressure level Y is accompl ished b) combining the mechanical adjustment of second check valve 64 in supply valve 1 8. with a common mechanical drive for the supply valve and the second check valve. Because of the di fference betw een cold tire target pressure and operating pressure, as described in detai l above, the target pressure and the predetermined pressure level preferably are adjusted simu ltaneously.

Turning now to FIG. 3 A, a third exemplary embodiment of the tire inflation system with discrete deflation circuit of the present invention is indicated general ly at 70. FIG. 3 A shows third embodiment tire inflation system 70 in an inflation mode, and the direction of air flow is generally indicated by arrows I. Third embodiment tire inflation system with discrete deflation circuit 70 is generally similar in structure and operation to First and second embodiments tire inflation system 10, 50, respectively, with the exception that the third embodiment tire inflation system employs a deflation circuit 72 and a predetermined condition that are different from the First and second embodiments of the tire inflation system. As a result, only the differences between third embodiment tire inflation system 70 and first embodiment tire inflation system 1 0 wi ll be described below.

Third embodiment tire inflation system 70 employs a ixed di fferential deflation pressure sim i lar to fixed di fferential deflation pressure X of First embodiment tire inflation system 10, and further includes monitoring of the supply pressure. More particularly, deflation circuit 72 is pneumatically connected to and includes a portion of pneumatic conduit C. By way of example, in one t> pe of configuration, simi lar to deflation circuit 24 of first embodiment tire inflation sy stem 10 (FIG. 1 A), deflation circuit 72 of third embodiment tire inflation system 70 includes First and second tee Fittings 34 and 36, which are spaced apart from one another and are fluidly connected to pneumatic conduit C. First tee Fitting 34 is fluidly connected to and extends between second pneumatic conduit section 16 and third pneumatic conduit section 1 7, while second tee fitting is fluidly connected to and extends between fourth pneumatic conduit section 19 and fifth pneumatic conduit section 20. First check valve 22 is disposed between first and second tee fittings 34 and 36, and is fluidly connected to third pneumatic conduit section 1 7 and fourth pneumatic conduit section 1 9. First check valve 22 enables air to flow in the direction from supply lank 12 to tires 14, but prevents air from flowing in the opposite direction, that is, from the tires to the supply tank.

Deflation circuit 72 further includes a deflation pneumatic conduit 74, which in turn includes a first deflation conduit section 74a, a second deflation conduit section 74b, and a third deflation conduit section 74c. First deflation conduit section 74a includes a first end 76 and a second end 78. First end 76 of first deflation conduit section 74a is fluidly connected to first tee fitting 34, which provides fluid communication between second pneumatic conduit section 1 6 and the first defiation conduit section. Second end 78 of first deflation conduit section 74a is fluidly connected to a supply override valve 84, which will be described in greater detail below.

Second deflation conduit section 74b includes a first end 80 and a second end 82. First end 80 of second defiation conduit section 74b is fluidly connected to second tee Fitting 36, which provides fluid communication between fifth pneumatic conduit section 20 and the second deflation conduit section. Second end 82 of second defiation conduit section 74b is fluidly connected to second check valve 40, sim ilar to deflation circu it 24 of first embodiment tire inflation system 1 0.

Third deflation conduit section 74c includes a first end 86 and a second end 88. First end 86 of third deflation conduit section 74c is fluidly connected to second check valve 40, and second end 88 of the third deflation conduit section is fluidly connected to supply override valve 84. In this manner, third deflation conduit section 74c extends between second check valve 40 and supply override valve 84.

Simi lar to deflation circuit 24 of first embodiment tire inflation system 10, second check valve 40 prevents air from flo ing in the direction from supply tank 1 2 to tires 14, and is biased to allow air to flow from the direction of the tires to the supply tank only when the pneumatic pressure in second deflation pneumatic conduit section 74b is greater than predeterm ined amount or fixed di fferential X over the target pressure. Turning to FIG. 3 B, in which third embodiment lire in flation system 70 is shown in a deflation mode and the d irection of air flow is generally indicated by arrows D, when the pneumatic pressure is greater than the target pressure plus fixed di fferential X psi, air flows through second check valve 40 and through third deflation conduit section 74c to supply override valve 84.

Supply override valve 84 is show n in FIGS. 3A and 3B in an energized state. Supply override valve 84 monitors the pneumatic pressure in first pneumatic conduit section 1 5, and thus the pressure that is available from supply tank 12. More particularly, a supply monitoring pneumatic conduit 90 extends between and is fluidly connected to supply override valve 84 and first pneumatic conduit section 15. The connection of supply override valve 84 to first pneumatic conduit section 1 5 enables the supply override valve to detect the pneumatic pressure in the first pneumatic conduit section and thus supply tank 12. This detection prevents deflation of tires 14 if the pneumatic pressure in supply tank 12 is below a minimum desired pressure level to increase the likelihood that the air pressure in the tires remains above a minimum recommended pressure, as wil l be described in greater detail below.

For example, if the minimum desired pressure level of supply tank 12 is 1 15 psi, supply override valve 84 is able to delect the pressure level of the supply tank through the connection of supply monitoring pneumatic conduit 90 to first pneumatic conduit section 1 5. Supply override valve 84 preferably is a spring-biased pi lot valve, so that when the valve detects a pressure level from first pneumatic conduit section 15 that is below 1 1 5 psi, the valve remains closed (FIG. 3B), thereby preventing exhaustion of air from second check valve 40, which in turn prevents de flation of tires 14. When supply override valve 84 detects a pressure level from first pneumatic conduit section 1 5 that is at or above 1 1 5 psi, the valve actuates and thus opens. When supply override valve 84 is open, air flows through the supply override valve 84, through first deflation conduit section 74a to second pneumatic conduit section 16 and to supply valve 1 8. Supply valve 1 8 then exhausts air unti l the pressure in second pneumatic conduit section 16 drops below a level of the target pressure plus fixed differential X psi, which then causes second check valve 40 to close and prevent further deflation. During deflation, if ihe pneumatic pressure in supply tank 12 drops below the minimum tank pressure, supply override valve 84 closes to prevent further deflation.

The use of supply override valve 84 thus prevents deflation of tires 14 when the pneumatic pressure in supply tank 12 is below a minimum pressure level. This prevention of deflation is desirable because if the pressure level in supply tank 12 becomes low due to air consumption from braking, it is possible that the supply tank may not be able to provide enough air to enable tires 14 to be inflated to the target pressure. I f supply tank 12 does not have such su fficient air pressure, it is possible that tire inflation system 70 may actually undesirably remove or deflate air from tires 14, which in turn would undesirably reduce the pressure in the tires to a level that is below the desired operating pressure. By limiting the amount of deflation that can occur, supply override valve 84 increases the likelihood that the air pressure in tires 1 remains above a minimum recommended pressure for a specific vehicle load as set by NHTSA and/or the tire manufacturer.

In this manner, third embodiment tire inflation system 70 provides a constant-pressure system that includes discrete deflation circuit 72. Discrete deflation circuit 72 accommodates an increased tire pressure due to operating conditions by enabling deflation of tires 14 to be control led, employing fixed differential deflation pressure X to prevent deflation of the tires below a m inimum predeterm ined pressure, such as a m inimum recommended pressure for a specific vehicle load as set by NHTSA and/or the tire manufacturer. In addition, third embodiment tire inflation system 70 provides monitoring of the supply pressure to prevent exhaustion of air from tires 14 when the pneumatic pressure in supply tank 1 2 is low, thereby increasing the l ikelihood that the air pressure in the tires will remain above a min imum recommended pressure. Moreover, by being a constant-pressure system and using mechanical components that are mechanically and/or pneumatical ly actuated, rather than components that are electrically actuated and rely on the electrical system of the trailer, third embodiment tire inflation system 70 is more reliable, more economical, and is easier to instal l and use than the electrically-actuated and electrically-controlled systems of the prior art.

It is to be understood that deflation circuit 72 of third embodiment tire inflation system 70 has been described with reference to the use of separate check valves 22, 40, tee fittings 34, 36, conduit sections 16, 17, 1 , 20, 74a, 74b, 74c, and supply override valve 84 for the purposes of clear illustration of the invention. Preferably, check valves 22, 40 and/or supply override valve 84 are incorporated into a single or integrated valve body with corresponding passages in the valve body, thereby eliminating one or more of tee fittings 34, 36 and conduit sections 16, 1 7. 1 , 20, 74a, 74b. 74c, w ithout affecting the overal l concept or operation of the invention. In addition, as described above, check valve 40 is biased to allow air to flow from the direction of tires 14 to supply tank 12 when the pneumatic pressure in second deflation pneumatic conduit section 74b is at least fixed di fferential X greater than the target pressure.

Preferably, rather than employing supply valve 1 8 in combination with separate first check \ alvc 22 and second check valve 40, the use of fixed differential X by deflation circuit 72 is accompl ished through the use of a relieving regulator with a built-in hysteresis for the supply valve. Such a construction eliminates check valves 22, 40 and associated tee fittings 34, 36 and condu it sections 1 7, 19, 74a, 74b, 74c, without affecting the overall concept or operation of the invention. Preferred relieving regulators with a built-in hysteresis include first exemplary relieving regulator 200 and second exemplary relieving regulator 222, which are shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, respectivel) , and are described above.

With reference now to FIG. 4A, a fourth exemplary embodiment of the tire inflation system with discrete deflation circuit of the present invention is indicated generally at 100. FIG. 4Λ shows tire inflation system 100 in an inflation mode, and the direction of air flow is generally indicated by arrows I. Fourth embodiment tire inflation system with discrete deflation circuit 1 00 is general ly sim ilar in structure and operation to first, second and third embodiments tire inflation system 10, 50, 70, respectively, with the exception that the fourth embodiment tire inflation system employs a deflation circuit 102 that only allows deflation when the vehicle is parked. As a result, only the differences between fourth embodiment tire inflation system 100 and first embodiment tire inflation system 10 will be described below.

Fourth embodiment tire inflation system 100 retains air pressure in tires 14 during operating conditions by preventing deflation until the vehicle is parked, thereby reducing the likelihood that the vehicle will be operated with tires at a pressure that is too low. More particularly, fourth embodiment tire inflation system 100 employs deflation circuit 102 that includes a deflation pilot valve 104, which only allow s deflation of tires 14 to occur when the vehicle is parked.

Deflation circuit 102 is pneumatically connected to and includes a portion of pneumatic conduit C. By way of example, a preferred configuration is similar to deflation circuit 24 of first embodiment tire inflation system 10 (FIG. 1 A), in which deflation circuit 102 of fourth embodiment tire inflation system 100 includes first and second tee fittings 34 and 36, which are spaced apart from one another and arc fluidly connected to pneumatic conduit C. First tee fitting 34 is fluidly connected to and extends between second pneumatic conduit section 16 and third pneumatic conduit section 17, while second tee fitting is fluidly connected to and extends between fourth pneumatic conduit section 19 and fifth pneumatic conduit section 20. First check valve 22 is disposed between first and second tee fittings 34 and 36, and is fluidly connected to third pneumatic conduit section 1 7 and fourth pneumatic conduit section 19. First check valve 22 enables air to flow in the direction from supply tank 12 to tires 14, but prevents air from flow ing in the opposite direction, that is, from the tires to the supply tank.

Deflation circuit 102 further includes a deflation pneumatic conduit 106, which in turn includes a first deflation conduit section 106a and a second deflation conduit section 106b. First deflation conduit section 106a includes a first end 108 and a second end 1 10. First end 108 of first deflation conduit section 106a is fluidly connected to first tee fining 34, which provides fluid communication between second pneumatic conduit section 16 and the first deflation conduit section. Second deflation conduit section 106b includes a first end 1 12 and a second end 1 14. First end 1 12 of second deflation conduit section 106b is fluidly connected to second tee fitting 36, which prov ides fluid communication between fifth pneumatic conduit section 20 and the second deflation conduit section. Because fourth embodiment tire inflation system 100 does not include optional tire isolation system 130, fifth pneumatic conduit section 20 extends directly to wheel valve 28, eliminating sixth pneumatic conduit section 21 (FIG. 1 A), which is employed in first embodiment tire inflation system 10.

Second end 1 ίθ of first deflation conduit section 106a is fluidly connected to deflation pilot valve 104, and second end 1 14 of second deflation conduit section 106b is also fluidly connected to the deflation pilot valve. In this manner, deflation pilot valve 104 is fluidly connected to and extends between first deflation conduit section 106a and second deflation conduit section 106b. It is to be understood that deflation pilot valve 104 is shown in FIG. 4A in an energized state.

Turning to FIG. 4B, in which fourth embodiment tire inflation system 100 is shown in a deflation mode and the direction of air flow is generally indicated by arrows D, deflation pilot valve 104 enables deflation of tires 1 when the vehicle is parked. More particularly, a parking brake conduit or circuit 1 16 extends between and is fluidly connected to pilot valve 104 and a parking brake 1 18 of the vehicle. For trailers of tractor-trailer heavy-duty vehicle applications, parking brake 1 18 is also referred to in the art as an emergency/supply. The connection of deflation pilot valve 104 to parking brake 1 18 enables the deflation pilot valve to allow deflation of tires 14 only when the vehicle is parked, thereby preventing deflation of the tires below any minimum recommended guidelines while the vehicle is traveling over-the-road.

For example, deflation pilot valve 104 preferably is a spring-biased pilot valve that is biased to an open position. As show n in FIG. 4B, when the vehicle is parked, there is little or no air pressure on parking brake 1 18. which enables deflation pilot valve 104 to remain open. When deflation pilot valve 104 is open, air flows through the deflation pilot valve, through first deflation conduit section 106a to second pneumatic conduit section 16 and to supply valve 1 8. Supply valve 1 8 then exhausts air until the pressure in second pneumatic conduit section 16 drops to the target pressure, at which point the supply valve closes. In contrast, as shown in FIG. 4A, when the vehicle is traveling over-the-road, air pressure is applied to parking brake 1 18 to release the parking brake. Based upon the connection of deflation pilot valve 104 to parking brake 1 1 8 by parking brake conduit 1 16, this air pressure overcomes the bias of the deflation pilot valve, moving the valve to a closed position, which in turn prevents deflation of tires 14 during vehicle operation.

The use of deflation pi lot valve 104 thus prevents deflation of tires 14 when the vehicle is operating over-the-road, and in turn only al lows deflation when the vehicle is parked. Because the minimum recommended tire pressure for a specific vehicle load is set by NHTSA and/or the tire manufacturer based on a cold non-operating pressure, and tires 14 are not able to be deflated until the vehicle is parked, the likelihood of operating the vehicle with the tires below the minimum recommended tire pressure thus is reduced.

In this manner, fourth embodiment tire inflation system 100 provides a constant-pressure system that includes discrete deflation circuit 102. Discrete deflation circuit 102 accommodates an increased tire pressure due to operating conditions by enabling deflation of tires 14 to be controlled, employing monitoring of vehicle parking brake 1 1 8 to prevent deflation of the tires whi le the vehicle is operating, thereby reducing the likelihood that the vehicle will be operated with tires at a pressure that is below a recommended inflation level. In addition, by being a constant-pressure system and using mechanical components that are mechanically and/or pneumatically actuated, rather than components that are electrically actuated and rely on the electrical system of the trailer, fourth embodiment tire inflation system 100 is more reliable, more economical, and is easier to install and use than the electrically-actuated and electrically- control led systems of the prior art. It is to be understood thai, while deflation circuit 102 has been described with reference to the use of check valve 22, tee fittings 34, 36, deflation pilot valve 104, and conduit sections 16, 106a, 106b, the valves may alternatively be incorporated into a single or integrated valve body with corresponding passages in the valve body, thereby eliminating one or more of the tee fittings and conduit sections, without affecting the overall concept or operation of the invention. In addition, as an alternative to monitoring vehicle parking brake 1 18 to prevent deflation of tires 14 while the vehicle is operating, fourth embodiment tire inflation system 100 may employ other monitoring means. For example, deflation circuit 102 may be connected to the ignition circuit of a tractor of the vehicle to detect or determine whether the vehicle is prepared for operation. In such a case, if the ignition power of the vehicle is detected, thereby indicating that the vehicle is prepared for operation, deflation of tires 14 would be prevented. Also, deflation circuit 102 may • be connected to a sensor that detects motion of a wheel of the vehicle, and if the wheel is moving, deflation of tires 14 is prevented.

Turning now to FIG. 5, an optional aspect or feature of the tire inflation system of the present invention, a lire isolation system, is indicated generally al 130. Tire isolation system 130 is particularly useful in first, second and third embodiments lire inflation system 10 (FIGS. I A and 1 B). 50 (FIGS. 2A and 2B) and 70 (FIGS. 3A and 3B), respectively.

More particularly, as described above, when a vehicle has been parked for an extended period of time, the pneumatic pressure in supply tank 12 may drop or bleed down due to small air leaks that are typical in any pneumatic system, in addition, certain prior art pneumatically- controlled, constant-pressure tire inflation systems include a wheel valve that is capable of deflation, which keeps the inflation path from supply tank 12 to tires 1 open. As a result, when the pneumatic pressure in supply tank 12 drops, the pneumatic pressure in tires 14 also drops, which may be a drop of up to about 25 psi. Then, when the vehicle is started up to prepare for over-lhe-road travel, tires 14 must be re-inflated up to or near the target pressure, which may involve adding about 25 psi to each one of eight or more tires. This re-inflation process typically takes a great deal of time and places repeated demands on tire inflation system 10, 50, 70, which may reduce the life of the system. In addition, i f the vehicle operator does not wait for tires 14 to be re-inflated to the target pressure before operating the vehicle, the tires in turn may be operated in an under-inflated condition until the target pressure is reached, which reduces the life of the tires.

To minimize pressure loss and the need to provide significant re-inflation of tires 14, tire isolation system 1 30 is an optional feature that isolates the tires from supply tank 12 when the vehicle is parked. Tire isolation system 130 includes isolation pilot valve 26. As described above, when supply valve 1 8 is in an open position, pressurized air flows through the supply valve to second pneumatic conduit section 16. In tire isolation system 1 30. tee finings 34, 36 (FIG. 1 Λ), first check valve 22, and third, fourth and fifth pneumatic conduit sections 1 , 1 9 and 20, respectively, are optional components. As a result, isolation pilot valve 26 is shown in FIG. 5 as being flu idly connected to second pneumatic conduit section 16, so that air flows from supply valve ! 8 through the second pneumatic conduit section to the isolation pi lot valve. It is to be understood that isolation pi lot valve 26 is shown in FIGS. I A- I B, 2A-2B, and 3A-3 B in an energized state.

While the operation of isolation pilot valve 26 will be described in detail below, when the isolation pilot valve is in an open position, air flows through the isolation pilot valve and proceeds to wheel valve 28 and through sixth pneumatic conduit section 2 1 . Air then flows through wheel valve 28 through seventh pneumatic conduit section 30 to tire valve 32 and into t ire 14. Isolation pilot valve 26 thus is disposed between and interconnects second pneumatic conduit section 1 6 and sixth pneumatic conduit section 2 1 , and its actuation affects air flow between supply tank 12 and tires 1 . so that the isolation pilot valve enables isolation of the tires when the vehicle is parked.

More particularly, a parking brake conduit 132 extends between and is fluidly connected to isolation pilot valve 26 and a parking brake 1 34 of the vehicle. For trailers of tractor-trailer heavy-duty vehicle applications, parking brake 1 34 is also referred to in the art as an emergency/supply. The connection of isolation pilot valve 26 to parking brake 1 34 enables the isolation pilot valve to isolate tires 14 when the vehicle is parked.

More specifically, isolation pi lot valve 26 preferably is a spring-biased pilot valve, which 5 is biased to a position that obstructs or blocks the flow of air coming from second pneumatic conduit section 16 and exhausts or vents to atmosphere 138 the flow of air coming from sixth pneumatic conduit section 2 1 . As a result, when the vehicle is parked, there is little or no air pressure on parking brake 134, w hich enables isolation pilot valve 26 to obstruct or block the flow of air coming from second pneumatic conduit section 16 and exhaust to atmosphere 1_.38 the 1 0 flow of air coming from sixth pneumatic conduit section 21 , thereby interrupting fluid communication between supply tank 12 and tires 14. This interruption of fluid communication between supply tank 12 and tires 14 and isolates the tires from the supply tank, which in turn m inimizes the pressure loss of the tires when the vehicle is parked. For example, as described above, in the prior art, supply tank 12, and thus tires 14, may experience a pressure drop of up to 1 5 25 psi or more when the vehicle is parked for an extended period of time. With the use of tire isolation system 1 30, including isolation pi lot valve 26, such a pressure drop in tires may be reduced to less than 1 psi .

When the vehicle travels over-thc-road, air pressure is applied to parking brake 1 1 8 to release the parking brake. Based upon the connection of isolation pilot valve 26 to parking0 brake 134 by parking brake conduit 132, this air pressure overcomes the bias of the isolation pi lot valve, movi ng the valve to an open position. This opening of isolation pilot valve 26 enables air to flow between second pneumatic conduit section 16 and sixth pneumatic conduit section 21 during vehicle operation.

Optionally, isolation pilot valve 26 of tire isolation system 130 also includes detection of5 the pneumatic pressure in first pneumatic conduit section 1 5 and thus supply tank 12 to enable the isolation pilot valve to isolate tires 14 if the pneumatic pressure in the supply tank is below a minimum desired pressure level. Such an option provides isolation of tires 14 in the event that the pneumatic pressure in supply tank 12 is below a desired level, in which case isolation of the tires is necessary to minimize the pressure loss in tires 14 due to depletion of supply tank 12 when the vehicle is parked. I n add ition, isolation pilot valve 26 may optionally be a quick- release valve or may incorporate quick-release features to ensure that, upon isolation of tires 14, sixth pneumatic conduit section 21 is exhausted as quickly as possible, thereby limiting the amount of pneumatic pressure of the tires lost by the exhaustion or venting process.

Moreover, as an alternative to monitoring vehicle parking brake 134 to isolate tires 14, t ire isolation system 1 30 may employ other monitoring means. For example, isolation pilot valve 26 may be connected to the ignition circuit of a tractor of the vehicle to detect or determine whether the vehicle is prepared for operation. In such a case, when the ignition power of the vehicle is not detected, thereby indicating that the vehicle is not prepared for operation, valve 26 would isolate tires 14 as described above. Also, isolation pilot valve 26 may be connected to a sensor that detects motion of a wheel of the veh icle, and if the wheel is not moving, the valve would isolate tires 1 .

l ire isolation system 1 30 thus is an optional feature that is particularly useful in first, second and third embod iments tire inflation system 10, 50 and 70, respectively, to minimize pressure loss when the vehicle is parked, thereby minimizing the need to provide significant re- inflation of tires 14. Minimizing the need to provide significant re-inflation of tires 14 in turn significantly reduces the time required to inflate the tires upon start-up of the vehicle, and also reduces undesirable demands on tire inflation system 10, 50, 70, thereby increasing the life of the system. Tire isolation system 1 30 also increases the life of tires 14 by reducing the possibi lity that the tires wi ll be operated before being re-inflated to the target pressure. Moreover, by using mechanical components that are mechanically and/or pneumatically actuated, rather than components that are electrically actuated and rely on the electrical system of the trailer, tire isolation s) stem 1 30 is reliable, economical, and is easy to instal l and use. With reference now to FIG. 6Λ, a fifth exemplary embodiment of the tire inflation system with d iscrete deflation circuit of the present invention is indicated generally at 150. FIG. 6A shows tire inflation system 1 50 in an inflation mode, and the direction of air flow is generally indicated by arrow s I. Fi fth embodiment tire inflation system with discrete detlation circuit 150 is generally similar in structure and operation to first, second, third, and fourth embodiments tire inflation system 1 0. 50, 70, 100, respectively, with the exception that the fifth embodiment tire inflation system employs a deflation circuit 1 52 that only allows deflation when the vehicle is parked, similar to the fourth embodiment tire inflation system shown in FIGS. 4Λ and 4B, and also incorporates a tire isolation system 1 54, similar to tire isolation system 1 30 shown in FIG. 5 and described above. As a result, only the differences between fi fth embodiment tire inflation system 1 50 and fourth embodiment tire inflation system 100, and the di fferences between tire isolation system 1 54 of the fifth embodiment tire inflation system and tire isolation system 1 30, will be described below.

Deflation circuit 1 52 ensures deflation of tires 14 only when the vehicle is parked and the pneumatic pressure of supply tank 1 2 exceeds a minimum threshold, and also employs tire isolation system 1 54 to isolate the tires from the supply tank when the vehicle is parked. More particularly, in fi fth embodiment tire inflation system 150. in flation of tires 14 proceeds with air flowing from supply tank 12, through first pneumatic conduit section 15 to supply valve 1 8, and through the supply valve when the supply valve has been actuated, as described above. When supply valve 1 8 has been actuated, air flows into second pneumatic conduit section 16.

By way of example, in a preferred configuration, first tee fitting 34 is fluidly connected to and extends between second pneumatic conduit section 16 and to third pneumatic conduit section 1 7. Third pneumatic conduit section 17 is fluidly connected to and extends between first tee fitting 34 and first check valve 22. First check valve 22 is fluidly connected to and extends betw een third pneumatic conduit section 1 7 and fourth pneumatic conduit section 19, and enables air to flow in the direction from supply tank 12 to tires 14, but prevents air from flowing in the opposite direction, that is, from the tires to the supply tank. Fourth pneumatic conduit section 19 is flu idly connected to and extends between first check valve 22 and second tee fitting 36, which in turn is fluidly connected to and extends between the fourth pneumatic conduit section 1 and fi fth pneumatic conduit section 20.

During inflation, air thus flovs s through second pneumatic conduit section 1 6, third pneumatic conduit section 1 7, check valve 22, fourth pneumatic conduit section 19, and fi fth pneumatic conduit section 20 to isolation pilot valve 1 72, which is fluidly connected to the fifth pneumatic conduit section.

W hi le the operation of isolation pilot valve 1 72 will be described in greater detail below, once air flows through the isolation pilot valve, it proceeds through a first portion 2 1 a of sixth pneumatic conduit section 21 , which extends between and is fluidly connected to the isolation pi lot valve and an optional quick release valve 1 74. Optional quick release valve 1 74 provides more rapid actuation of isolation pi lot valve 1 72, as known in the art. The air then flows through a second portion 2 1 b of sixth pneumatic conduit section 21 , which extends between and is fluidly connected to optional quick release valve 1 74 and mechanically-operated wheel val ve 28. A fter flowing through wheel valve 28, air flows to tire valve 32 and into tire 14 through seventh pneumatic conduit section 30.

Deflation circuit 1 52 includes a first deflation pneumatic conduit 1 76, which extends between arid is fluidly connected lo first lee filling 34 and a deflation pilot valve 178. Deflation circuit 1 52 also includes a second deflation pneumatic conduit 1 84, which extends between and is fluidly connected to deflation pilot valve 1 78 and second tee fitting 36. It is to be understood that isolation pi lot valve 1 72 and deflation pilot valve 1 78 are shown in FIG. 6 A in an energized state.

Turning to FIG. 6B, in w hich fi fth embodiment tire inflation system 1 50 is shown in a deflation mode and the direction of air flow is indicated by arrows D, deflation pilot valve 1 78 enables deflation of tires 14 when the vehicle is parked. More particularly, a parking brake conduit or circuit 180 extends between and is f!uidly connected to deflation pilot valve 178 and a parking brake 1 82 of the vehicle. For trai lers of tractor-trailer heavy-duty vehicle applications, parking brake 1 82 is also referred to in the art as an emergency/supply. In a manner similar to that as described above for fourth embodiment tire inflation system 100 (FIGS. 4A and 4B), the connection of deflation pilot valve 1 78 to parking brake 182 enables the deflation pilot valve to allow deflation of tires 14 only when the vehicle is parked, thereby preventing deflation of the tires while the vehicle is traveling over-the-road.

Deflation pilot valve 178 preferable is a spring-biased pilot valve that is biased to an open position. As shown in FIG. 6B, when the vehicle is parked, there is little or no air pressure on parking brake 1 82, which enables deflation pi lot valve 178 to remain open. When deflation pilot valve 1 78 is open, air flows through the deflation pilot valve, through first deflation conduit 176 to second pneumatic condu it section 16 and to supply valve 18. Supply valve 1 8 then exhausts air until the pressure in second pneumatic conduit section 16 drops to the target pressure, at which point the supply valve closes. In contrast, as shown in FIG. 6A, when the vehicle is traveling ovcr-lhc-road, air pressure is applied to parking brake 182 to release the parking brake. Based upon the connection of deflation pilot valve 1 78 to parking brake 1 82 by parking brake conduit 180, this air pressure overcomes the bias of the deflation pilot valve, moving the valve to a closed position, which in turn prevents deflation of tires 14 during vehicle operation.

The use of deflation pilot valve 1 78 thus prevents deflation of tires 1 4 when the vehicle is travel ing, and in turn only allows deflation when the vehicle is parked. Because the minimum recommended tire pressure for a specific vehicle load is set by NHTSA and/or the tire manufacturer based on a cold non-operating pressure, and tires 14 are not able to be deflated unti l the vehicle is parked, the l ikelihood of operating the vehicle with the tires below the m inimum recommended tire pressure thus is reduced. As shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, fifth embodiment tire inflation system 1 50 also includes tire isolation system 1 54 to minimize pressure loss in tires 14 due to bleeding down of supply tank 12 when the vehicle is parked for an extended period of time. Minimizing the pressure loss in tires 1 reduces the time required to re-inflate the tires upon actuation of the vehicle, and also desirably minimizes the demands on tire inflation system 1 50. Minimizing the pressure loss in tires 14 also increases the life of tires 14 by reducing the possibility that the tires will be operated before being re-inflated to the target pressure.

Tire isolation system 1 54 includes isolation pilot valve 172, which is disposed between and interconnects fifth pneumatic conduit section 20 and first portion 21 a of sixth pneumatic conduit section 21 . This location of isolation pilot valve 172 affects air flow between supply tank 12 and tires 14, so that the isolation pilot valve enables isolation of the tires when the vehicle is parked. More particularly , a parking brake conduit 186 extends between and is fluidiy connected to isolation pilot valve 1 72 and parking brake 1 82. It is to be understood that isolation pilot valve 1 72 is shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B in an energized state.

Isolation pilot valve 1 72 preferably is a spring-biased pilot valve, which is biased to a position that obstructs or blocks the flow of air coming from fifth pneumatic conduit section 20 and exhausts or vents to atmosphere 190 the flow of air coming from sixth pneumatic conduit section 21. As a result, when the vehicle is parked, there is little or no air pressure on parking brake 182, which enables isolation pilot valve 172 to obstruct or block the flow of air coming from fifth pneumatic conduit section 20 and exhaust to atmosphere 190 the flow of air coming from sixth pneumatic conduit section 21 , thereby interrupting fluid communication between supply tank 12 and tires 14. This interruption of fluid communication between supply tank 12 and tires 14 isolates the tires from the supply tank, which in turn minimizes the pressure loss of the tires when the vehicle is parked.

When the vehicle travels ovcr-the-road, air pressure is applied to parking brake 182 to release the parking brake. Based upon the connection of isolation pilot valve 1 72 to parking brake 1 82 by parking brake conduit 1 86, this air pressure overcomes the bias of the isolation pi lot valve, moving the valve to an open position. This opening of isolation pilot valve 1 72 enables air to flow between fifth pneumatic conduit section 20 and sixth pneumatic conduit section 2 1 during vehicle operation.

Preferably, tire isolation system 1 54 includes a supply pressure monitoring conduit 1 92 that extends between and is fluidly connected to isolation pilot valve 1 72 and supply tank 12. Supply pressure monitoring conduit 1 2 enables isolation pilot valve 1 72 to detect the pneumatic pressure in suppl) tank 12 to in turn enable the isolation pilot valve to isolate tires 14 if the pneumatic pressure in the suppl> tank is below a minimum desired pressure level. Supply pressure monitoring conduit 192 thus provides isolation of tires 1 4 in the event that the pneumatic pressure in supply tank 1 2 is below a desired level, in which case isolation of the tires is necessary to minimize the pressure loss in tires 14 due to depletion of supply tank 1 2 when the vehicle is parked. In add ition, when the pressure in supply tank 12 is above a minimum desired pressure, the air pressure in supply pressure monitoring conduit 1 92 overcomes the bias of isolation pilot valve 1 72, moving the valve to an open position. This opening of isolation pilot valve 1 72 enables air to flow between fifth pneumatic conduit section 20 and sixth pneumatic conduit section 2 1 , thereby enabling air to flow even when the vehicle is parked:

In this manner, fifth embodiment tire inflation system 1 50 provides a constant-pressure system that includes discrete deflation circuit 1 52. Discrete deflation circuit 1 52 accommodates an increased tire pressure due to operating conditions by enabling deflation of tires 14 to be controlled, employing monitoring of vehicle parking brake 1 82 to prevent deflation of the tires whi le the vehicle is traveling, thereby reducing the likelihood that the vehicle wi ll be operated with tires at a pressure that is too low. In addition, by being a constant-pressure system and using mechanical components that are mechanically and/or pneumatically actuated, rather than components that are electrically actuated and rely on the electrical system of the trailer, fifth embodiment tire inflation system 1 50 is more reliable, more economical, and is easier to install and use than the electrical ly-actuated and electrically-controlled systems of the prior art.

It is to be understood that, while deflation circuit 1 52 has been described with reference to check valve 22, tee fittings 34, 36, deflation pilot valve 1 78, and conduit sections 1 6, 1 7, 19, 1 76. 1 84, the valves may alternatively be incorporated into a single or integrated valve body with corresponding passages in the valv e body, thereby el im inating one or more of the tee fittings and conduit sections, without affecting the overall concept or operation of the invention. In addition, as an alternative to monitoring vehicle parking brake 1 82 to prevent deflation of tires 1 4 whi le the vehicle is traveling, fi fth embodiment tire inflation system 1 50 may employ other monitoring means. For example, deflation circuit 1 52 may be connected to the ignition circuit of a tractor of the vehicle to detect or determine whether the vehicle is prepared for operation. In such a case, if the ignition power of the vehicle is detected, thereby indicating that the vehicle is prepared for operation, deflation of tires 1 4 would be prevented. Also, deflation circuit 1 2 may be connected to a sensor that detects motion of a wheel of the vehicle, and if the wheel is moving, deflation of tires 14 is prevented.

Fifth embodiment tire inflation system 1 50 also includes tire isolation system 1 54, which minimizes pressure loss when the vehicle is parked, thereby minimizing the need to provide significant re-inflation of tires 14. Minimizing the need to provide significant re-inflation of tires 14 in turn signi ficantly reduces the time required to inflate the tires upon start-up of the vehicle, and reduces undesirable demands on tire inflation system 1 50, thereby increasing the life of the system. Tire isolation system 1 54 also increases the life of tires 14 by reducing the possibi lity that the tires wi ll be operated before being re-inflated to the target pressure.

As an alternative to monitoring vehicle parking brake 1 82 to prevent deflation of tires 1 whi le the vehicle is travel ing, tire isolation system 1 4 of fi fth embodiment tire inflation system 1 50 may employ other monitoring means. For example, isolation pi lot valve 1 72 may be connected to the ignition circuit of a tractor of the vehicle to detect or determine whether the vehicle is prepared for operation. In such a case, when the ignition power of the vehicle is not detected, thereby indicating that the vehicle is not prepared for operation, valve 1 72 would isolate tires 14 as described above. Also, isolation pilot valve 172 may be connected to a sensor that detects motion of a wheel of the vehicle, and if the wheel is not moving, the valve would isolate tires 14.

It is to be understood that lire inflation system of the present invention 10, 50, 70, 100, 1 50 flu idly connects supply tank 12 to a plurality of vehicle tires 14, and one tire has been shown herein for the purpose of convenience. Discrete deflation circuit 24, 52, 72, 1 02, 152 fluidly connects to and communicates with the plural ity of vehicle tires 14, thereby enabling control of deflation of multiple tires along or through a single common pneumatic circuit. In this manner, tire inflation system of the present invention 10, 50, 70, 100, 1 50, with each respective discrete deflation circuit 24, 52, 72, 102, 1 52, provides an efficient and economical system.

The above-described structure and function of tire inflation system of the present invention 1 0, 50, 70, 100, 1 50 thus overcome the disadvantages of prior art tire inflation systems. More particularly, discrete deflation circuit 24, 52, 72, 102, 152 of tire inflation system of the present invention 10, 50, 70, 100, 150, respectively, enables control of deflation of tires 14 based on specific predeterm ined conditions to accommodate an increased tire pressure based on operating conditions. This control prevents deflation based on a cold-tire target pressure setting w hen the tires increase to a higher operating pressure, thereby reducing the likel ihood that the vehicle may be operated with tires 14 being below a level that is recommended by NHTSA or the tire manufacturer, which in turn optimizes lire performance.

More specifical ly, deflation circuit 24 of first embodiment tire inflation system 10 employs fixed differential deflation pressure X to prevent deflation of tires 14 below a minimum predetermined pressure, such as a minimum recommended pressure for a specific vehicle load as set by NHTSA and/or the tire manu facturer. Deflation circuit 52 of second embodiment tire inflation system 50 emplo> s variable deflation pressure Y to prevent deflation of tires 14 below a minimum predetermined pressure. Deflation circuit 72 of third embodiment tire inflation system 70 employs fixed di fferential deflation pressure X to prevent deflation of the tires below a m inimum predetermined pressure, and also monitors the supply pressure to prevent exhaustion of air when the pressure in supply tank 12 is below a predetermined level, thereby desirably reducing the demands placed on the supply tank and minimizing the time required to re-inflate tires 14. Deflation circuit 102 of fourth embodiment tire inflation system 100 employs monitoring of the vehicle parking brake to prevent deflation of the tires while the vehicle is traveling over-the-road, which reduces the likelihood that the vehicle will be operated with tires at a pressure that is too low. Deflation circuit 152 of fifth embodiment tire inflation system 150 employs monitoring of the vehicle parking brake to prevent deflation of the tires while the vehicle is operating, and also includes tire isolation system 154.

Tire isolation system 1 54 of fifth embodiment tire inflation system 1 50, and optional tire isolation system 1 30 for use with first, second and third embodiments tire inflation system 1 0, 50, 70, respectively, isolates tires 14 from supply tank 12 when the vehicle is parked. This isolation minimizes the pressure loss of tires 14 while the vehicle is parked, which in turn minimizes the amount of time needed to re-inflate the tires when the vehicle is activated, and desirably reduces the demand on each tire inflation system 10, 50, 70, 150 for re-inflation of the tires. Tire isolation system 1 30, 1 54 also increases the life of tires 14 by reducing the possibility that the tires wil l be operated before being re-inflated to the target pressure.

Tire inflation system of the present invention 10. 50, 70, 1 00, 1 50 preferably employs mechanical components that are mechanically and/or pneumatical ly actuated, rather than electronically-operated solenoid valves, electronic controllers, and other electronic components, which are expensive and often complex to instal l and configure. As a result, tire inflation system 10, 50, 70, 100, 150 is simple, econom ical and easy to install. In addition, by being a mechanically and pneumatical ly actuated system, tire inflation system of the present invention 10, 50, 70, 100, 150 is reliable, since it does not require the use of the electrical system of the trailer, which may be unreliable or even non-functional at times.

Moreover, by not exhausting when inflation of tires 14 is complete, lire inflation system of the present invention 10, 50, 70, 100, 1 50 is a constant-pressure system. Such a constant- pressure system 10, 50, 70, 100, 1 50 does not require expensive and complex electronic controls to determine when it is necessary to trigger or commence inflation. For this additional reason, tire inflation system 10. 50, 70, 1 00, 1 50 is simple, economical and easy to instal l, and b) not employing electrical components, does not require the use of the electrical system of the trailer and thus is reliable. In addition, as a constant-pressure system, tire inflation system of the present invention 1 0, 50. 70, 100, 1 50 continuously monitors tire pressure and dynamically responds to pressure changes, thereby actively or quickly responding to reduced tire pressure conditions, such as in the case of an air leak.

An additional feature of tire inflation system of the present invention 10, 50, 70, 100, 150 is the abi lity to optionally locate deflation circuits 24, 52. 72, 102, 152, respectively, near supply valve 1 8, w hich enables the valves of the deflation circuit to be in an enclosure with the supply valve. Such an enclosure protects the valves, and in turn protects any valve ports that may exhaust to atmosphere. Enclosing and thus protecting the valve ports keeps them clean and open, in contrast to prior art tire inflation systems, which often employ exhaust valves that are adjacent tires 14 and thus cannot be enclosed. Such exhaust valves of prior art systems are exposed to the elements and often encounter problems with contam ination, which impairs operat ion of the valves and reduces the efficiency of the system. By optionally enclosing and protecting valves of deflation circuits 24, 52, 72, 102, 1 52, optimum valve operation is maintained, thereby maintaining the efficiency of tire inflation system of the present invention 10, 50, 70, 1 00, 1 50, respectively.

Another feature that may optionally be included in certain embodiments of the invention, such as second embodiment tire inflation system 50, is an option to include mechanical means, such as a spring or threaded drive, on supply valve 1 8 and/or valve 64 of deflation circuit 52 to adjust the regulator pressure of each valve simultaneously with a check of atmospheric pressure. This adjustment enables second embodiment tire inflation system 50 to make adjustments based on a comparison to atmospheric pressure, which improves the accuracy and efficiency of the system .

The present invention also includes a method of providing a tire inflation system with a deflation circu it that is discrete or separate from the inflation circuit, and a method of deflating a tire using a deflation circuit that is separate from an inflation circuit, both of which desirably enable control of the conditions under which deflation occurs. The present invention also includes a method of providing a lire inflation system with a tire isolation system when the vehicle is parked, and a method of isolating a tire when the vehicle is parked. Each method includes steps in accordance w ith the description that is presented above and shown in FIGS. 1 A-6B .

It is to be understood that the structure of the above-described tire inflation system with discrete deflation circuit of the present invention 10, 50, 70, 100, 1 50, and tire isolation system 130, 1 54, may be altered or rearranged, or certain components omitted or added, without affecting the overall concept or operation of the invention. For example, valves in addition to or other than those shown and described may be employed, including solenoid valves, and the location and arrangement of components may be adjusted based on speci fic design requirements. In addition, components such as optional tire isolation system 1 30, 154 may be om itted, or may be emplo\ ed in tire inflation systems having configurations other than those shown herein. It is to be further understood that the present invention finds application in types of tire inflation systems for heavy-duty vehicles, other than those shown and described herein and which are known to those skilled in the art, without affecting the concept or operation of the invention. Moreover, gases other than air that may be compressed and follow the principles of fluid flow, including nitrogen, carbon dioxide, and the like, may be employed without affecting the concept or operation of the invention.

Accordingly, the improved lire inflation system with discrete deflation circuit is simpl i fied, provides an effective, safe, inexpensive, and efficient structure which achieves all the enumerated objectives, provides for eliminating difficulties encountered with prior art tire inflation systems, and solves problems and obtains new results in the art.

In the foregoing description, certain terms have been used for brevity, clarity and understanding; but no unnecessary limitations are to be implied therefrom beyond the requirements of the prior art, because such terms are used for descriptive purposes and are intended to be broadly construed . Moreover, the present invention has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments. It shal l be understood that this illustration is by way of example and not by way of l imitation, as the scope of the invention is not limited to the exact details shown or described. Potential modi fications and alterations wi l l occur to others upon a reading and understanding of this disclosure, and it is understood that the invention includes all such modifications and alterations and equivalents thereof.

Having now described the features, discoveries and principles of the invention, the manner in which the improved tire inflation system with discrete deflation circuit is constructed, arranged and used, the characteristics of the construction and arrangement, and the advantageous, new and useful results obtained; the new and useful structures, devices, elements, arrangements, parts and combinations are set forth in the appended claims.

Claims

WHAT IS CLA IM ED IS:

1 . A vehicle lire inflation system, comprising:

an air supply source in fluid communication with a plurality of tires of said vehicle; a pneumatic conduit extending between and being in fluid communication with said air supply source and said tires; and

means fluid ly connected to said pneumatic conduit for enabling selective inflation and deflation of said tires, said means including:

a first pneumatic circuit for inflation of said tires;

a second pneumatic circuit for deflation of said tires, said second pneumatic circuit being discrete from said first pneumatic circuit and being common to more than one of the tires; and

said means providing controlled deflation of said tires in said second pneumatic circuit based upon a predetermined condition, whereby said tire inflation system accommodates an increased pressure in said tires.

2. The vehicle lire inflation system of Claim 1 , wherein said system is a constant pressure system.

3. The vehicle tire inflation system of Claim 1 , wherein said system does not employ electronic components.

4. The vehicle tire inflation system of Claim 1 , wherein:

said pneumatic conduit is a first pneumatic conduit;

said means includes a suppl) valve, a first check valve, and a second check valve; said first pneumatic circuit includes said supply valve and said first check valve being tluidh connected to said first pneumatic conduit;

said second pneumatic circuit includes a second pneumatic conduit being fluidly connected to said first pneumatic conduit; and

said second check valve being fluidly connected to said second pneumatic conduit, the second check valve providing said controlled deflation of said tires in said second pneumatic circuit based upon said predeterm ined condition.

5. The vehicle tire inflation system of Claim 4, wherein said predetermined condition is a pressure in said tires being a fixed differential greater than a target inflation pressure of the tires.

6. The vehicle tire inflation system of Claim 5, wherein said fixed differential is a di fference between a cold pressure of aid tires and an operating pressure of the tires.

7. The vehicle tire inflation system of Claim 4, wherein said predetermined condition is a pressure in said tires being a variable deflation pressure greater than a target inflation pressure of the t ires.

8. The vehicle tire inflation system of Claim 7, wherein said variable deflation pressure is a value of about fifteen pounds per square inch greater than said target inflation pressure.

9. The vehicle tire inflation system of Claim 1 , wherein:

said means includes a rel ieving regulator, said relieving regulator being formed with: a supply chamber and an outlet chamber in selective fluid communication with one another; and

an exhaust passage in fluid communication with said outlet chamber; and said relieving regulator including a supply check member being disposed between said supply chamber and said outlet chamber, a diaphragm disposed between the outlet chamber and said exhaust passage, and a first spring connected to said diaphragm for resisting movement of the diaphragm;

said first pneumatic circuit for inflation of said tires including said supply chamber and said outlet chamber, whereby air from said air supply source flows through the supply chamber and through the outlet chamber; and

said second pneumatic circuit for deflation of said tires including said outlet chamber and said exhaust passage, whereby air from said tires selectively flows through the outlet chamber and through the exhaust passage, said lire air being prevented from flowing to said supply chamber by said supply check member, and said diaphragm providing said controlled deflation by enabl ing said air flow from said outlet chamber to said exhaust passage based upon said predeterm ined condition, wherein a further resistance of the diaphragm is controlled by at least one of a second spring and a poppet.

10. The vehicle tire inflation system of Claim 9, wherein said predetermined condition is a pressure in said tires being a fixed differential greater than a target inflation pressure of said tires.

1 1 . The vehicle tire inflation system of Claim 10, wherein said fixed differential is a difference between a cold pressure of said tires and an operating pressure of the tires.

12. The vehicle tire inflation system of Claim 9, wherein said predetermined condition is a pressure in said tires being a variable deflation pressure greater than a target inflation pressure of the tires.

13. The vehicle tire inflation system of Claim 12, wherein said variable deflation pressure is a value of about fifteen pounds per square inch greater than said target inflation pressure.

14. The vehicle tire inflation system of Claim 1 , wherein said controlled deflation of said tires includes exhausting excess air from said tires to atmosphere.

1 5. The vehicle tire inflation system of Claim 1 , wherein said second pneumatic circuit for deflation of said tires further comprises a supply override valve in fluid communication with said air supply source, said supply override valve preventing deflation of the tires when a pneumatic pressure in the air supply source is below a minimum level.

16. The vehicle tire inflation system of Claim 1 , wherein said second pneumatic circuit for deflation of said tires includes a pilot valve in fluid communication with said pneumatic conduit and with a parking brake of said vehicle, said pilot valve providing controlled deflation of said tires upon engagement of said parking brake.

1 7. The vehicle tire inflation system of Claim 1 , further comprising a tire isolation pilot valve in fluid communication with said pneumatic conduit and in fluid communication with said air supply source, whereby said tire isolation pilot valve interrupts said fluid communication between said air supply source and said tires when a pneumatic pressure in the air supply source is below a minimum level.

1 8. The vehicle tire inflation system of Claim I , further comprising a wheel valve in fluid communication with each one of said tires to selectively isolate one of the tires from other components of said tire inflation system.

1 . A vehicle tire inflation system, comprising:

a tire isolation pilot valve in fluid communication with said pneumatic conduit and being equipped with means for monitoring a condition of said vehicle, whereby said tire isolation pilot valve interrupts said fluid communication between said air supply source and said tires to pneumatically isolate the tires when said vehicle is in a parked condition, whereby a pneumatic pressure loss of said tires is minim ized.

20. The vehicle tire inflation system of Claim 1 , wherein said means for monitoring a condition of said vehicle includes fluid communication between said tire isolation pilot valve and a parking brake of said vehicle, whereby said tire isolation pi lot valve interrupts said fluid communication between said air supply source and said tires when said parking brake is engaged.

2 1 . The vehicle tire inflation system of Claim 19, wherein said means for monitoring a condition of said vehicle includes operatively connecting said tire isolation pi lot valve to an ignition circuit of said vehicle, whereby said tire isolation pilot valve interrupts said fluid communication between said air supply source and said tires when said ignition circuit is nut powered.

22. The vehicle tire inflation system of Claim 19, wherein said means for monitoring a condition of said vehic le includes opcralivciy connecting said tire isolation pilot valve to a wheel motion sensor, whereby said tire isolation pilot valve interrupts said fluid communication between said air supply source and said tires when said wheels of said vehicle are not moving.