FABRICATION AND TESTING OF COMPRESSED AIR VEHICLE

Abstract

ABSTRACT TITLE: FABRICATION AND TESTING OF COMPRESSED AIR VEHICLE Light utility vehicles are becoming popular solutions for autonomous short-distance transportation. Rising costs and pollution from petrol and diesel are prompting vehicle manufacturers to explore alternative energy sources. Engineers are increasingly focused on harnessing air as a power source for these vehicles. This air powered vehicle project employs a pneumatic system featuring two cylinders that generate continuous motion supported by four free wheel sprockets and a metallic chassis. In this system the pneumatic cylinders convert linear motion into rotary motion while a chain drive transmits mechanical power efficiently across the vehicle. Utilizing compressed air as an energy source offers significant benefits in eco-friendly vehicle propulsion.

Specification

Description:4.DESCRIPTION
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The field of invention for this air powered light utility vehicle falls within sustainable
transportation and alternative energy-powered vehicles. This invention is positioned at the
intersection of pneumatic systems engineering and green automotive technology, focusing on the
development of eco-friendly, low emission vehicles for short distance, autonomous applications.
It is particularly relevant in fields such as urban mobility solutions, industrial transportation, and
environmentally sustainable engineering, where there is a growing demand for alternatives to
conventional fossil fuel powered vehicles. This invention aligns with efforts to reduce pollution
and reliance on non-renewable energy sources by utilizing compressed air as a clean, renewable
power source.
BACKGROUND:
[0002] The existing invention discloses a pneumatic suspension system may include, for each
wheel of a vehicle, a strut and an adjustment cylinder in fluid communication with the strut.
Adjustment cylinders associated with an end of the vehicle may be mechanically coupled while
keeping the cylinders isolated pneumatically. A suspension control system can control fluid flow
at each of the adjustment cylinders to selectively engage or disengage an anti-roll feature. By
allowing fluid flow at the adjustment cylinders, the struts are free to oscillate in response to forces
at the associated wheel, e.g., caused by an uneven road. By inhibiting fluid flow at the
adjustment cylinders, forces experienced at the struts can be transferred between multiple struts.
In some examples, the fluid flow at the adjustment cylinders can be controlled to vary the travel
distance of the struts, to selectively provide a stiffer or looser suspension.
[0003] Furthermore, the other invention discloses a system and method for economically
using compressed air as automobile power source, comprising: a compressed air power device,
which includes automobile air storage tubes (1) to store a sufficient amount of high
pressure compressed air and a cylinder-combined engine consisting of the first and
second cylinders (9)(10), and which can make full use of the compressed air to produce driving
power; a mechanism to produce, store and provide high-pressure compressed air, which includes
a boiler-type high-pressure compressed air producing and storing device, abbreviated as boiler
type HCAPS device (4), to be able to use electricity during periods of low energy demand (off
peak) such as at night simultaneously recovering the by-produced heat for central heating, and
pressurizing and inflating into the automobile air storage tubes (1) during daytimes; brake energy
recovery and regeneration devices, which include a spring reserving-releasing device and/or
a compressed air reserving-releasing
device
to
save
the compressed air in
the
automobile air storage tubes (1) for saving the driving power; an inner gear ring assembly, which
includes an inner gear ring (2) gearing meshing with inner acting gears (45), with the first and
second accelerating gears (72)(92), with a flywheel front inner meshing gear (48) and reset gears
(46), for transmitting torque and mixing/outputting power; some clutch transmission devices and
a controller, which controls orderly coordinated operation of devices and mechanisms.
SUMMARY:
[0004] This invention is an air-powered light utility vehicle designed for short-distance
autonomous transportation. By harnessing compressed air as a clean energy source, it aims to
reduce fuel dependency and emissions associated with conventional petrol and diesel engines. The
vehicle operates through a pneumatic system that converts linear motion into rotary motion using
two cylinders, supported by a chain drive mechanism for efficient power transmission. This design
presents a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative for urban and industrial applications, aligning
with the broader goals of reducing environmental impact and enhancing green mobility solutions.
OBJECTIVES:
[0005] The objective of this air powered light utility vehicle project is to design and develop a
sustainable, autonomous transportation solution for short distances by utilizing compressed air as
a clean energy source. This vehicle aims to reduce reliance on conventional fuels, lower emissions,
and minimize environmental impact. The project focuses on creating an efficient pneumatic system
that converts linear motion into rotary motion, ensuring smooth and continuous operation. Through
an optimized chain drive mechanism, this invention seeks to provide a reliable and eco-friendly
alternative for urban and industrial transportation, contributing to sustainable mobility
advancements.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS:
[0006] Figure-1 illustrates the basic layout of a pneumatic system.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION:
[0007] The basic layout of a pneumatic system is illustrated in Fig 1. It can be observed that the
primary components resemble those of a hydraulic system. However, the key difference between
hydraulic and pneumatic systems lies in their working fluids and energy transfer methods. In
hydraulic systems, mechanical energy is transferred to the oil using a pump. Conversely, in
pneumatic systems, the working fluid is air, and mechanical energy is imparted to it through a
compressor. Additionally, hydraulic systems generally operate at very high pressures to achieve
significant force and power transmission, while pneumatic systems function at lower pressures,
typically around 5-7 bar suitable for industrial applications.
[0008] The pneumatic cylinder is a central component that converts compressed air into linear
motion. This movement occurs when compressed air enters the cylinder pushing the piston to
extend and retract (3). In this vehicle two pneumatic cylinders are utilized to enable continuous
motion, with each cylinder's linear movement transformed into rotational energy, propelling the
vehicle forward.
[0009] The 5/2 direction control valve manages the flow of compressed air to and from the
pneumatic cylinders. With five ports and two positions it enables the control of two separate air
flows. By directing airflow, the valve ensures synchronized cylinder movement, promoting smooth
operation and sustaining the vehicle's momentum. This component is essential for controlling the
vehicle's start, stop, and directional movements.
[0010] Air circulating devices including air compressors and filters are employed to supply and
purify the air that powers the pneumatic system (2). The compressor generates the compressed air
necessary for the cylinders, while the filters eliminate contaminants to ensure clean and efficient
operation. This configuration helps maintain consistent air pressure, preventing disruptions and
ensuring reliable performance.
[0011] The air cylinder operates in conjunction with the pneumatic cylinder to convert compressed
air into mechanical motion. Strategically positioned within the vehicle, it delivers pressurized air
to the pneumatic cylinder which subsequently translates this force into linear motion. This
component is essential for achieving the vehicle's desired speed and power output.
[0012] Bearings installed along the vehicle's moving parts help minimize friction and facilitate
smoother more efficient rotation. The bearing mounter ensures that the rotating shaft and other
components function with minimal resistance, enhancing the longevity of the mechanical parts.
This setup contributes to a smoother ride and more efficient energy use, as it reduces the amount
of force lost to friction.
[0013] The shaft transmits rotary motion from the pneumatic cylinders to the wheels via a chain
drive system. It acts as the main link between the power source (the cylinders) and the chain
sprockets, effectively delivering rotary motion to the wheels. This component is crucial for
converting linear force into forward momentum.
[0014] The chain sprocket, linked to the shaft, is vital for transmitting mechanical power
throughout the vehicle. It transfers rotary motion from the shaft to the wheels, ensuring continuous
propulsion. Designed to maintain consistent contact with the chain, the sprockets facilitate smooth
and uninterrupted power transmission, which is essential for stable and steady motion (4).
[0015] The base frame offers structural support for all the vehicle's components. Constructed from
durable metallic material, it accommodates the pneumatic cylinders, control valves, shafts, and
other essential parts. This frame ensures the vehicle's stability and durability by securely holding
all components in place, facilitating even weight distribution and effective shock absorption during
operation. , Claims:CLAIMS:
I/We claim:
1. Light utility vehicles are increasingly popular for autonomous short distance transportation
addressing both convenience and efficiency in urban and industrial settings.
2. Rising fuel costs and environmental pollution from petrol and diesel are pushing vehicle
manufacturers to seek alternative, sustainable energy sources prioritizing eco friendly solutions.
3. Engineers are turning to compressed air as an innovative, clean power source for vehicle
propulsion, reducing reliance on traditional fuel sources.
4. The air powered vehicle project utilizes a pneumatic system to create continuous motion,
showcasing an efficient design for uninterrupted short distance travel.
5. This vehicle's pneumatic cylinders convert linear motion into rotary motion, highlighting a
practical application of air pressure mechanics in vehicle operation.
6. A chain drive system in the vehicle efficiently transmits mechanical power across components,
enhancing reliability and durability for frequent use.
7. Compressed air as a propulsion source offers notable environmental benefits, aligning with
sustainable transportation goals by reducing emissions and fuel consumption.

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