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16th Feb 2007
Seattle, Washington
When a major heavy-duty truck manufacturer wanted to redesign its cab and reduce the clutter behind the dashboard, Global Vehicle Technologies (GVT) engineers tackled the challenge. The result: GVT developed a chassis-mounted modular solenoid valve assembly for air management controls that gives OEM's greater feature management and flexible manufacturing.
By moving valves from under the dash to to the chassis where they are closer to individual applications such as fifth wheel, auxiliary axle and power take-off (PTO), GVT's Air Solenoid Accessory Pack (ASAP) also makes it easier for technicians to detect costly air leaks.
The chassis location also enhances the ability to add air accessories later on.
"ASAP eliminates cumbersome bundles of air line tubing that connects a valve to each application, which frees up valuable space under the dash", said John Adami, VP of North American Sales. "ASAP offers single-point connections for the air supply and electrical harness that make it easy to service and install. And after-market assemblers such as body builders and system integrators will be able to integrate additional solenoid valves for add-on appliations."
To activate an individual control, truck operators flip an electrical switch mounted in the dashboard. By integrating the controls into the electrical network of the vehicle, GVT is able to provide customers with smart interlocks on functions. For example, a PTO will only work if the parking brake is applied. Truck manufacturers are introducing ASAP technology to their manufacturing. Some manufacturers are using ASAP for all of their non-brake pneumatic controls.
Norgren Global Vehicle Technologies is an engineering-driven manufacturer of fluid and motion controls for original equipment commercial vehicle manufacturers and Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers worldwide. Supported by an engineering staff with extensive expertise in multiple competencies, Norgren GVT designs and manufactures on-board components for a wide variety of chassis, cab and powertrain applications. Norgren GVT, a business unit of Norgren Inc., was formed in 2006 through the integration of GT Development and Norgren's Global Truck Group. For more information contact sales@gtdev.com.