Patent Publication Number: US-2023150329-A1

Title: Pneumatic control system for vehicle suspension system

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This U.S. utility patent application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 17/141,185 filed 4 Jan. 2021, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 16/289,371 filed 28 Feb. 2019, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 15/712,995 filed 22 Sep. 2017, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 14/971,520, filed 16 Dec. 2015, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/092,723 filed 16 Dec. 2014, U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/119,740 filed 23 Feb. 2015, and U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/195,083 filed 21 Jul. 2015, each of which is incorporated in its entirety herein by this reference. 
    
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     This invention relates generally to the vehicle suspension field, and more specifically to a new and useful pneumatic control system for an air suspension system. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Vehicle suspension systems relying on air springs instead of conventional steel springs can provide improved and adjustable ride quality. Historically, vehicles have incorporated air springs where active adjustments of suspension parameters (e.g., attenuation force, ride height, spring constants, etc.) are desired. Electronic control systems and software have recently been developed to provide automation and control (e.g., closed-loop control, open-loop control) to active air suspension systems; however, such systems and methods suffer from a number of drawbacks. In particular, many systems are excessively complex (e.g., systems that require numerous machining operations to form and assemble, need complicated arrangements of gaskets and seals to function properly, etc.), highly specified (e.g., systems that are made for a specific vehicle configuration and/or lack reconfigurability), and expensive to manufacture (e.g., systems of predominantly metal construction that are expensively machined, systems with high part counts that are intensively assembled, etc.). Other limitations of conventional electronically controlled air suspension systems include one or more of: unacceptable quality tradeoff with cost, lack of manufacturability for low cost, large system cross-section and/or footprint causing difficulty with integration into other systems and/or facilities, and other deficiencies. 
     Furthermore, construction of robust electronic control units, including complex manifolds, that can be manufactured at a low per-unit cost is particularly challenging. Challenges include: integration of sub-system components (e.g., actuators, electronic control systems, etc.) with the manifold; fabrication of the manifold; retooling of the electronic control unit for various customer applications without unduly specializing the assembly process; and reducing the number of operations necessary to electronically couple the internal components of the electronic control units. 
     SUMMARY 
     The present disclosure provides a pneumatic control system. The pneumatic control system includes a manifold. The manifold defines: a channel for conveying a fluid, a discharge port, and an expansion chamber defining a chamber axis, wherein the discharge port defines a flow axis extending between a first end and second end and a receiving region at the second end. The pneumatic control system also includes an actuator configured to selectively control fluid communication between the channel and the discharge port. The chamber axis is substantially coplanar with the flow axis. 
     In some embodiments, the pneumatic control system further includes a filter member disposed in the expansion chamber. 
     In some embodiments, the filter member has a tubular shape disposed coaxially with the chamber axis. 
     In some embodiments, the pneumatic control system further includes a filter input disc that covers an axial end of the filter member. 
     In some embodiments, the filter input disc includes a solid central portion and a plurality of angled blades disposed annularly about the solid central portion. 
     In some embodiments, the pneumatic control system further includes a filter cap assembly enclosing an end of the expansion chamber and selectively removable from the manifold to provide access to the filter member. 
     In some embodiments, the manifold further defines a drain port, and a purge valve bore; and the pneumatic control system further includes a purge valve assembly disposed in the purge valve bore and configured to selectively control fluid flow between the expansion chamber and the drain port. 
     In some embodiments, the expansion chamber includes an annular chamber, a collection chamber, and an interior chamber. In some embodiments, the pneumatic control system further includes a filter outlet disc defining a central bore and covering an end of the filter member opposite the filter input disc and separating each of the annular chamber and the interior chamber from the collection chamber. 
     In some embodiments, the manifold further includes an input tube extending through the central bore of the filter outlet disc and into the interior chamber, the input tube defining an input passage providing fluid communication between the interior chamber and the channel. 
     The present disclosure also provides a pneumatic control system. The pneumatic control system includes a manifold. The manifold defines a channel for conveying a fluid, a discharge port, and an expansion chamber. The pneumatic control system also includes: an actuator configured to selectively control fluid communication between the channel and the discharge port; a filter assembly disposed in the expansion chamber; and a filter cap assembly including a filter cap body enclosing an end of the expansion chamber and selectively removable from the manifold to provide access to the filter assembly. 
     In some embodiments, the filter cap assembly includes an input port configured to receive a fluid connection to a compressed air source. 
     In some embodiments, the input port includes a pneumatic fitting configured to engage and retain an air line with an airtight connection. 
     In some embodiments, the filter cap assembly includes an integrated supply valve for controlling fluid flow from an input port into the filter assembly. 
     In some embodiments, the pneumatic control system further includes a filter cap retainer, and the filter cap body defines a cap retainer slot annularly about an outer surface thereof and configured to receive the filter cap retainer for holding the filter cap assembly within the manifold. 
     In some embodiments, the manifold defines at least one cap retainer hole intersecting the expansion chamber perpendicular to an axis thereof and adjacent to an edge thereof for receiving the filter cap retainer and for holding the filter cap assembly within the manifold. 
     In some embodiments, the filter cap retainer has a U-shape. 
     The present disclosure also provides a pneumatic control system. The pneumatic control system includes a manifold. The manifold defines a channel for conveying a fluid, a discharge port, an expansion chamber, a drain port, and a purge valve bore. The pneumatic control system also includes: an actuator configured to selectively control fluid communication between the channel and the discharge port; a filter assembly disposed in the expansion chamber; and a purge valve body disposed in the purge valve bore and configured to selectively control fluid flow between the expansion chamber and the drain port. 
     In some embodiments, the pneumatic control system further includes a purge body retainer, and the purge valve body defines a purge retainer slot annularly about an outer surface thereof and configured to receive the purge body retainer for holding the purge valve body within the purge valve bore. 
     In some embodiments, the manifold defines at least one cap retainer hole intersecting the expansion chamber perpendicular to an axis thereof and adjacent to an edge thereof for receiving the purge body retainer and for holding the purge valve body within the purge valve bore. 
     In some embodiments, the purge body retainer has a U-shape. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES 
       Further details, features and advantages of designs of the invention result from the following description of embodiment examples in reference to the associated drawings. 
         FIG.  1    depicts a schematic of a first embodiment of the system. 
         FIG.  2 A  depicts a schematic representation of a functional relationship between the system components of a second embodiment of the system. 
         FIG.  2 B  depicts a schematic representation of a functional relationship between the system components of a third embodiment of the system. 
         FIG.  3    depicts an exploded view of a fourth embodiment of the system. 
         FIG.  4    depicts a cutaway view of a first embodiment of the manifold. 
         FIG.  5    depicts a perspective view of the first embodiment of the manifold. 
         FIG.  6 A  depicts a perspective view of a variation of the pressure sensor port of the first embodiment of the manifold. 
         FIG.  6 B  depicts a top-down view of a variation of the pressure sensor port of the first embodiment of the manifold. 
         FIG.  7    depicts a specific example of an embodiment of the system including a strut and a magnet. 
         FIG.  8    depicts a cross-sectional view through the manifold of a fifth embodiment of the system, including actuators and a filter. 
         FIG.  9    depicts an example flow pathway of a fluid particle through the fifth embodiment of the system. 
         FIG.  10    depicts a cross sectional view through the cover, electronics module, and manifold of an example embodiment of the system. 
         FIG.  11    depicts a cross sectional view through the cover, electronics module, manifold, and second stage manifold of an example embodiment of the system. 
         FIG.  12    depicts a perspective view of a variation of the manifold of a sixth example embodiment of the system. 
         FIG.  13    depicts a perspective view of the manifold of the sixth example embodiment of the system, including actuators coupled to the second ends of the discharge ports. 
         FIG.  14    depicts a perspective view of a cross section of the cover of an embodiment of the system, including a PCB assembly and a pressure sensor an assembled embodiment of the system. 
         FIG.  15    depicts a partially exploded cross sectional view through the cover, electronics module, and manifold of an embodiment of the system, including a pressure sensor and an actuator. 
         FIG.  16    depicts a perspective view of an embodiment of the system, including fittings emplaced in the discharge ports and the input of the filter. 
         FIG.  17    depicts a perspective view of a cross section through the cover, electronics module, manifold, and actuator of an embodiment of the system configured to couple to a second stage manifold. 
         FIG.  18    depicts a partially exploded view of a seventh example embodiment of the system, including a dividing plane between the manifold and the cover that is perpendicular to the plane in which the actuators are oriented. 
         FIG.  19    depicts a block diagram of an example embodiment of a method of manufacture of the system. 
         FIG.  20    depicts a schematic of an example embodiment of the system. 
         FIG.  21    depicts a perspective view of the manifold of an eighth embodiment of the system, including pressure sensor supports integrated with the pressure sensor ports. 
         FIG.  22 A  depicts a perspective view of a second manifold of the present disclosure with an exploded view showing components of a filter assembly thereof. 
         FIG.  22 B  depicts a cut-away view of the second manifold of  FIG.  22 A . 
         FIG.  22 C  depicts a perspective view of the second manifold of  FIG.  22 A , with a cut-away showing internal details of the filter assembly. 
         FIG.  23 A  shows a schematic diagram of the second manifold in a supply OFF mode. 
         FIG.  23 B  shows a schematic diagram of the second manifold in a supply ON mode. 
         FIG.  23 C  shows a schematic diagram of the second manifold in a system flow ON mode. 
         FIG.  23 D  shows a schematic diagram of the second manifold in a purge mode. 
     
    
    
     DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     The following description of the preferred embodiments of the invention is not intended to limit the invention to these preferred embodiments, but rather to enable any person skilled in the art to make and use this invention. 
     As shown in  FIG.  1   , an embodiment of an electronically controlled air suspension system  100  includes: a manifold  110 , including a discharge port  111 , pressure sensor port  113 , a channel  114 , and a cavity  115 ; an actuator  120 ; a pressure sensor  130  arranged in the pressure sensor port  113 , the pressure sensor  130  including a connector  132 ; an electronics module  140 , including an electronics substrate  142 , the electronics substrate  142  arranged to enclose the actuator  120  and pressure sensor  130  within the manifold  110 ; and a cover  150 , coupled to the manifold  110  and cooperatively enclosing the actuator  120 , the pressure sensor  130 , and the electronics module  140 . As described in more detail below, one or more variations of the system  100  can omit one or more of the above elements, as well as provide a plurality of one or more of the above elements, in providing a suitable electronically controlled air suspension system  100 . 
     The system  100  functions to control air flow to and from services by electronically controlling one or more actuators  120  to direct pressurized air through a manifold  110 . The system  100  can also function as a command module for the control of one or more movable obstructions  172  of a second stage manifold  170 . Examples of services to and from which air flow can be controlled include: a set of air springs  182 , active or semi-active dampers  184 , an air compressor, a reservoir of compressed air, a hose, a second stage manifold  170 , or any other suitable system, subsystem, or component requiring a controllable source or sink of compressed air. Example configurations of the system  100  alongside various services and external systems  180  are shown in  FIGS.  2 A and  2 B . The system  100  can be used in: a central tire inflation system, air control system for recreational vehicle systems (e.g., slideouts, central locking, jacking systems, door opening and/or closing systems), active braking systems (e.g., pneumatic braking, hydraulic braking), vehicle stability control systems, medical devices (e.g., alternating pressure mattresses, seatpads for wheelchairs, blood-circulation enhancers), or in any other suitable application. In variations, the system  100  can include one or more of the services described above. The system  100  can additionally or alternatively function to maintain a particular pressure value, set of pressure values, or range of pressure values in one or more of the services described above. The system  100  can additionally or alternatively function to provide a variable set of internal control and actuation components based upon the specific needs of a user or service utilizing the system  100 . 
     As such, the system  100  can be configured for one or more of the following: providing a flexible and/or reconfigurable arrangement of internal components that can be populated in the system according to customer/user needs; mounting to any suitable vehicle employing an air suspension system; providing a common plane through which the connector(s)  126 , connector(s)  132 , and/or external connector(s)  149  perpendicularly pass to enable single-operation coupling of the pressure sensor(s)  130  and the actuator(s)  120  to the electronics module  140 ; arranging the actuator(s)  120  coaxially with the discharge port(s)  111  to enable a larger electronics substrate  142  to be used, a decreased package size of the system  100 , an injection-moldable cross section of the manifold  110 , and decreased cost and complexity of the system  100 ; and selectively removing material between the pressure sensor port(s)  113  and the discharge port(s)  111  and/or the channel  114  to provide access between various static pressures of portions of the system  100  and the pressure sensor(s)  130 . In one variation, all the pins (e.g., connectors) of the various components (e.g., external connector  149 , actuator  120 , pressure sensor  130 ) extend in a common direction from their respective positions within the manifold  110  towards a common plane. The architecture of this variation enables PCB-to-connector coupling and PCB-to-manifold coupling in a single assembly step. The architecture additionally enables single-pass soldering of the connectors to the PCB. A single soldering step can reduce stress on the printed circuit board (e.g., stress resulting from uneven thermal loading, mechanical loading, etc.) and lead to longer product lifetime and enhanced robustness. The system  100  can also function to be conveniently and easily manufactured and/or retooled. 
     In variations, the system  100  is configured to maximize the number of injection-moldable parts of the system  100 , including the manifold  110 , which is preferably of unitary molded construction. However, the system can be otherwise manufactured. 
     1. Applications and Specific Examples. 
     As noted above and as shown in  FIG.  7   , the system  100  can be integrated with or include a suspension system of a vehicle  400 . This can include a number of external systems  180 , including one or more air springs  182 , active or semi-active dampers  184 , vehicle mounting mechanisms  186 , and exhaust ports  189 . However, the suspension system can include any other suitable component. The suspension system can be an air suspension system, or be any other suitable suspension system. An air spring  182  can be a bag, cylinder, bellows, or similar structure that can expand (lengthen, stiffen, harden) or contract (shorten, soften, flex) when air is either pumped in or removed, respectively. However, the air spring can be a piston or have any other suitable configuration. An air spring  182  can function to provide a smooth and consistent ride quality to a vehicle  400 , or in some applications (e.g., a sport suspension) provide dynamic, wide range-of-motion articulation to some vehicle suspension. An air spring  182  can also function as a service requiring a source of compressed air, to be provided by the system  100 . An air spring  182  can also function as a source of compressed air that must be exhausted to atmospheric pressure, which can be controlled and directed by the system  100 . 
     The system  100  can simultaneously control one or more air springs  182 . When the system  100  controls multiple air springs  182 , the system  100  can individually control each air spring  182 , control a first set of air springs  182  based on the operation parameters of a second set of air springs  182 , or otherwise control air spring operation. In a first variation, the system  100  can fluidly isolate the air springs  182  connected to the system from each other (e.g., fluidly isolate a first air spring from a second air spring). In a second variation, two air springs  182  can be connected together through the system  100 , causing pressure to equalize between the two air springs  182 , providing an efficient means of suspension control for extremely uneven or irregular terrain. However, the system  100  can selectively or otherwise form any other suitable fluid configuration between the air springs  182 . An active or semi-active damper  184  is typically of similar mechanical construction as an air spring, but with the preferred function of dampening vibration that can be experienced by a vehicle  400  during normal operation (e.g., driving on a paved surface). However, the active or semi-active damper can be constructed, connected to the system  100 , or operated in any other suitable manner. 
     A vehicle mounting mechanism  186  functions to affix the system  100  to a vehicle  400 . A vehicle mounting mechanism  186  can include one or more brackets, bolts, fasteners, straps, clips, or similar devices that couple the system  100  to the vehicle  400 . The vehicle mounting mechanism  186  can additionally or alternatively include a set of mating surfaces, some of which are constituted by portions of the system  100  (e.g., a through-hole in the manifold  110 ) and some of which are defined by portions of the vehicle  400  (e.g., a bracket with a mating through-hole, to which the system  100  can be bolted, attached to a strut support of the vehicle  400 ). As a further alternative, the vehicle mounting mechanism  186  can include a receiving manifold to direct airflow to and/or from the system  100 , into which the system  100  is inserted and to which each of the discharge ports  111  of the manifold  110  is connected. The receiving manifold preferably includes one or more tubes that are each coupleable to a corresponding one of the discharge ports  111  of the manifold  110 , each of the one or more tubes fluidly connected to a service requiring pressurized air. Alternatively, the receiving manifold can define any suitable directed flow pattern. Alternatively, the vehicle mounting mechanism  186  can be any suitable mounting mechanism. 
     In a first specific example, the system  100  provides two controllable pressure lines, although the manifold  110  and electronics module  140  are configured to provide up to three controllable pressure lines in alternative configurations. The example system can include three of the discharge ports  111  and two actuators  120 . The first actuator  120  is emplaced in (e.g., arranged within) the cavity  115  of the manifold  110  and coaxially aligned with a first one of the discharge ports  111 , and the second actuator  120  is likewise emplaced and coaxially aligned with an adjacent second one of the discharge ports  111 . The third one of the discharge ports  111  can remain unused, and can remain open to the cavity  115  or be sealed by a cap or other sealing mechanism. The system can additionally include two pressure sensor ports  113 , each located between two adjacent discharge ports  111  of the three discharge ports  111  (e.g., the first pressure sensor port  113  between the first and second discharge ports  111 , the second pressure sensor port  113  between the second and third discharge ports  111 ). The system can include a single pressure sensor  130 , arranged within the first pressure sensor port  113  (e.g., the pressure sensor port  113  positioned between the two discharge ports  111  with corresponding actuators  120 ). 
     In a second specific example, the system  100  can be substantially similar to the first specific example, and additionally include a first air spring connected to the first discharge port  111 , a second air spring connected to the second discharge port  111 , and an exhaust connected to the third discharge port  111 . As such, the first air spring, the second air spring, and the exhaust are “services” connected to the system  100 . The system can additionally include a source of compressed air connected to an input of the system  100 . The actuators  120  are configured to selectively fluidly connect and disconnect the services to one another and/or to the source of compressed air, with all airflow occurring within the manifold  110 . In a first configuration, the first air spring can be fluidly connected to the second air spring, resulting in pressure equalization between the first and second air springs. In a second configuration, the first air spring can be fluidly connected to the source of compressed air, causing the first air spring to expand as its internal pressure is increased. In a third configuration, the first and/or second air spring can be fluidly connected to the exhaust, causing the first and/or second air spring to contract as its internal pressure is reduced. The first air spring, the second air spring, and the exhaust can alternatively be variously connected to and disconnected from one another, as well as to and from other connected external services and systems, in any other suitable manner. 
     As shown in  FIG.  9   , an example flow path through an example embodiment of the system  100  includes an air particle flowing from an air compressor through an input  161  of a filter  160 . The air particle then strikes the filter plate  162 , and is divested of dust particles in the air particle before passing into the expansion chamber  163 . Upon expansion, water vapor in the air particle condenses into a droplet, which adheres to the side wall of the expansion chamber  163  and collects in a separate portion of the expansion chamber  163 . The air particle turbulently flows through the expansion chamber  163  and into the filter element  164 , and follows a tortuous path through the filter element where it is divested of as much remaining water vapor as possible. The air particle then enters the channel  114 , and then into a first discharge port  111  with a corresponding first actuator  120  that is in an open position (i.e., in a position that fluidly connects the channel  114  and the discharge port  111 ). The air particle then travels through a compressed air line connected to the discharge port  111 , and then to an air spring  182  that is connected to the compressed air line, raising the internal pressure of the air spring  182 . A second actuator  120  is then actuated from a closed position (i.e., a position that prohibits fluid communication between the channel  114  and a discharge port  111  corresponding to the actuator  120 ) into the open position, and the air particle flows from the air spring  182 , through the compressed air line, into the first discharge port  111  and then the channel  114  before entering the second discharge port  111  (corresponding to the second actuator  120 ) and subsequently a second air spring  182 . However, any suitable fluid (e.g., air, other gasses, Newtonian fluids, non-Newtonian fluids, etc.) can flow from a fluid source (e.g., the ambient environment, reservoir, etc.) through the system along any other suitable fluid path. 
     2. System 
     As noted above and as shown in  FIGS.  1 ,  3 , and  4   , an embodiment of the system  100  includes: a manifold  110 , defining: a first and second discharge port  111 ; a channel  114 ; a cavity  115 ; and a pressure sensor port  113 . The system  100  can additionally include an actuator  120 , a pressure sensor  130  arranged within the pressure sensor port  113 , an electronics module  140 , an integrated filter  160 , a second stage manifold  170 , and/or any other suitable component. The system  100  is preferably assembled into a self-contained unit, as shown by example in  FIG.  16   , but can alternatively be configured in any other suitable manner. 
     2.1 Manifold. 
     As shown in  FIG.  4   , the manifold  110  preferably defines a discharge port  111 , a pressure sensor port  113 , a channel  114 , and a cavity  115 . The manifold  110  functions to direct fluid flow between one or more inputs and one or more outputs, preferably in cooperation with the actuator(s)  120 , but alternatively independently or with any other suitable component. The manifold  110  also functions to contain (e.g., enclose, mechanically protect) system components, such as the actuator(s)  120  and the pressure sensor(s)  130 . The manifold  110  can also function as a substrate (e.g., mounting point) for attachment of system components (e.g., the electronics module  140 , the cover  150 , etc.) or external components (e.g., a vehicle  400 ). The manifold  110  is preferably made of a thermoplastic (e.g., nylon or polyvinyl toluene with a 30% glass fill), but can alternatively be made of another synthetic or natural polymer, metal, composite material, or any other suitable material. The manifold  110  is preferably injection-molded, but can alternatively be milled out of a single block of material (e.g., metal, plastic), cast out of metal, composed of separate sub-components which are fastened together, or made using any combination of these or other suitable manufacturing techniques. One or more variations of the manifold  110  can also omit one or more of the above elements, as well as provide a plurality of one or more of the above elements, in providing a suitable manifold  110 . 
     In some variations, the manifold  110  can include webbing between one or more molded-in discharge ports  111 , to enhance the injection-moldability of the manifold  110  while maintaining the structural integrity of the pressurized portions of the manifold  110 , including the discharge ports  111 . As shown in  FIG.  5   , the cross section of the manifold  110  can also include a ridge  117   a  along an outer edge of the manifold  110 , which can facilitate sealing of the manifold  110  to the cover  150 . However, the manifold  110  can include any other suitable set of features. 
     2.1.1 Ports. 
     The manifold  110  preferably includes one or more discharge ports  111 . The discharge port  111  functions to fluidly connect a single attached service to the manifold  110 . The discharge port  111  can also function to receive an external fitting (e.g., a threaded quick-release compressed-gas fitting) that facilitates fluid connection of the discharge port  111  to an attached service. The discharge port  111  can additionally function to fluidly connect a system inlet (e.g., the filter) to the service, a second service to the service, or provide any other suitable fluid connection between a first and second endpoint. The discharge port  111  preferably defines an open first end, open second end, and a flow axis extending between the first and second ends. However, the first end and/or second end can be closed or otherwise configured. The discharge port  111  preferably defines a straight flow axis, but can alternatively define a curved flow path, a branched flow path (e.g., with at least a third end in addition to the first and second end), or any other suitable path along which air can flow through the discharge port  111 . In variations including a plurality of discharge ports  111 , the flow axis of each discharge port  111  is preferably parallel to each of the other flow axes of each of the other discharge ports  111 . In one example, the first and second discharge ports  111  are arranged with the respective flow axes sharing a common plane (port plane). However, multiple discharge ports  111  can be arranged offset from each other, at a non-zero angle to each other, or be arranged in any other suitable configuration. 
     The discharge port  111  can additionally define a receiving region  112 , which functions to seal against the barrel  122  of each actuator  120 , which can prevent uncontrolled fluid communication between the channel  114  and the discharge port  111 . The receiving region  112  is preferably a constriction of the discharge port  111  (e.g., a constriction of the inner port diameter), but can alternatively be a substantially flat ridge, boss, or any other suitable receiving surface or region of the discharge port  111  extending radially inward into the port lumen. The receiving region  112  is preferably positioned at or near the second end of the discharge port  111  (e.g., between the first and second ends, proximal the second end), but can alternatively be positioned in any suitable location along the flow axis of the discharge port  111 . The discharge port  111  can include one or more receiving regions  112  along the port length. 
     2.1.2 Pressure Sensor Ports. 
     The manifold  110  preferably includes one or more pressure sensor ports  113 , which function to receive one or more pressure sensors  130 . The pressure sensor ports  113  can additionally function to fluidly connect the pressure sensors  130  with at least one of the discharge ports  111  and/or the channel  114 . The pressure sensor port  113  can be fluidly connected to the first discharge port  111 , second discharge port  111 , channel  114 , or to any other suitable lumen by a fluid connection defined through the manifold thickness, wherein the fluid connection can be selectively formed after manifold manufacture (e.g., by a vertical drilling operation to remove the interposing manifold thickness), formed during manifold manufacture (e.g., with an injection molding insert), or otherwise formed at any other suitable time. The remaining manifold thickness preferably separates (e.g., fluidly isolates) the pressure sensor port  113  from the other lumens. In some variations, the pressure sensor port  113  can only be simultaneously fluidly connected to one of the discharge ports  111  or the channel  114 . Alternatively, the pressure sensor port  113  can be simultaneously fluidly connected to multiple of the discharge ports  111  and/or channel  114 . However, the pressure sensor port  113  can otherwise selectively permit pressure sensor access to one or more of the discharge ports  111  or channel  114 . 
     The pressure sensor port  113  can define a sensor insertion axis, along which a pressure sensor  130  can be inserted. The pressure sensor port  113  preferably includes a set of walls extending along the sensor insertion axis (e.g., extending perpendicular the port axes), but can alternatively remain substantially flush with the discharge port  111  exterior. The walls preferably do not extend beyond the discharge port  111  apex, but can alternatively extend beyond the discharge port  111  apex or extend any other suitable distance. The pressure sensor port  113  is preferably arranged adjacent a discharge port  111  (e.g., with the sensor insertion axis offset from the port central axis), more preferably overlapping a discharge port  111 , but can alternatively be arranged over a discharge port  111  (e.g., with the sensor insertion axis substantially aligned with the port central axis), or be arranged in any other suitable orientation relative to the discharge port  111 . The pressure sensor port  113  is preferably arranged with the sensor insertion axis perpendicular to the flow axes of the respective discharge ports  111  to which the pressure sensor port  113  is adjacent (e.g., perpendicular to the port plane), but can alternatively be oriented in any suitable angle, direction, or orientation. An example configuration of the pressure sensor port  113  in relation to one or more of the discharge ports  111  is shown in  FIGS.  6 A and  6 B . The pressure sensor port  113  is preferably arranged proximal the second end of the discharge port  111 , more preferably in a region overlapping or coinciding with the channel  114 , but can alternatively be arranged along any other suitable portion of the port length. The pressure sensor port  113  preferably includes one or more molded in snaps  118 , which function to retain the pressure sensors  130  in the pressure sensor ports  113 . Alternatively, the snaps  118  can be separate from the pressure sensor port  113 , or omitted entirely. Preferably, the snaps  118  are molded into the manifold  110 , but can alternatively be defined by the manifold  110  in any suitable manner, affixed to the manifold  110  after initial fabrication of the manifold as separate components, or provided in any other suitable manner. 
     In one example, the pressure sensor port  113  is arranged between an adjacent first and second discharge ports  111 , proximal the respective second ends. The pressure sensor port  113  overlaps a region encompassing a portion of the first discharge port  111 , the second discharge port  111 , and the channel  114 . This configuration can enable the same manifold  110  to be reconfigurable for various desired pressure sensing configurations depending on user or system requirements, and foregoes the need for complex porting between the pressure sensor ports  113  and the pressurized region of interest. However, the pressure sensor port  113  can be arranged in any other suitable location. 
     The pressure sensor port  113  can additionally include internal dividers that function to guide fluid connection formation (e.g., delineate where the holes should be drilled to connect the pressure sensor port  113  to the respective lumen). The internal dividers can additionally include a groove, channel, or other seating mechanism that functions to align and/or retain the pressure sensor tip. The internal dividers are preferably recessed relative to the walls of the pressure sensor port  113 , but can alternatively be coextensive with the walls, extend beyond the walls, or have any other suitable height. In one variation, the pressure sensor port  113  can include three internal dividers arranged in a plane substantially parallel the port plane, wherein the first internal divider extends parallel the wall dividing a first and second adjacent discharge port  111 , the second internal divider extends parallel an interface between the channel  114  and the first discharge port  111 , and the third internal divider extends parallel an interface between the channel  114  and the second discharge port  111 . In a second variation, the first internal divider extends parallel the wall dividing an adjacent one of the first and second discharge ports  111 , and the second and third internal dividers meet the first internal divider at a first end and are substantially evenly radially distributed relative to the first internal divider (e.g., wherein the first, second, and third internal dividers are separated by 120°). However, the pressure sensor port  113  can include any suitable number of internal dividers arranged in any suitable configuration. 
     2.1.3 Channel (Galley). 
     The manifold  110  includes a channel  114 , which may be called a galley, and which functions to contain a reservoir of compressed air that is simultaneously accessible to each of the actuators  120 . The channel  114  intersects the first and second discharge ports  111  between the respective first and second ends of each of the discharge ports  111 . Alternatively, the channel  114  can be connected by a secondary manifold or otherwise connected to one or more of the discharge ports  111  of the manifold  110 . The channel  114  may be fluidly connected to every discharge port  111  of the manifold  110 . Alternatively, the channel  114  may be connected to a first subset of the discharge ports  111  and fluidly isolated from a second subset of the discharge ports  111 . The channel  114  may extend normal to (i.e. orthogonal to) the discharge ports  111 . Alternatively, the channel  114  may extend parallel to or at any other suitable angle to the discharge ports  111 . The channel  114  preferably lies in a same plane as the discharge ports  111 . Alternatively, the channel  114  may be offset from the port plane (e.g., the channel  114  may lie above or below the port plane, extend at an angle to the port plane, etc.). The channel  114  is preferably substantially linear (e.g., define a substantially linear flow axis), but can alternatively be curved (e.g., toward or away from the second end, out from the port plane, etc.) or have any other suitable configuration. However, the channel  114  can be otherwise configured or arranged. 
     The channel  114  is preferably molded directly into the manifold  110 , but can alternatively be drilled, milled, or otherwise manufactured into the manifold  110 . The channel  114  is preferably connected to an output of a filter  160 , but can alternatively be connected directly to an input. The channel  114  preferably has a substantially constant cross-section along its length, but can alternatively have a variable cross-section. The channel diameter is preferably substantially the same as (or on the order of) the port diameter, but can alternatively be larger or smaller. The channel can have a circular cross section, an oblong cross section, or have any other suitable cross-section. However, the channel can have any other suitable configuration. 
     The channel  114  is preferably configured such that the pressure everywhere in the channel  114  is substantially the same regardless of whether or not one or more of the actuators  120  is in a position that fluidly connects the channel  114  to one or more of the discharge ports  111 . This configuration can be achieved, for example, by a passthrough region  114 ′ (pass-over region, pass-around region, etc.) as shown in  FIG.  10   . The passthrough region  114 ′ can be cooperatively defined by the channel lumen (having a substantially constant cross-section throughout its length) and a constricted portion of the actuator  120  (e.g., constricted along an axis that is orthogonal to the port plane, constricted radially, etc.), upstream from the barrel, which coincides with the channel  114  when the actuator  120  is in the closed position. Alternatively, the passthrough region can be defined as an outcropping along the length of the channel lumen. However, the passthrough region can be otherwise defined. Alternatively, sections of the channel  114  can be selectively sealed off when the actuators  120  are closed, or operate in any other suitable manner. 
     2.1.4 Cavity. 
     The manifold  110  preferably includes a cavity  115 , which functions to receive the actuator(s)  120  and to coaxially align the actuator(s)  120  with the discharge port(s)  111 . In variations of the system  100  employing a potting compound to reduce vibration and enhance structural rigidity of portions of the system  100 , the cavity  115  can also function to receive the potting compound. The cavity  115  preferably includes a surface that is lower than the lowermost edge of the discharge ports  111  (e.g., recessed relative to the discharge ports  111 , substantially parallel the nadir of the discharge ports  111 , etc.), as shown in  FIG.  4   , but can alternatively include a surface parallel to a chord of the port cross section (e.g., impinges on the port cross section) or arranged in any other suitable location relative to the discharge ports  111 . The recessed surface can function to receive actuator(s)  120  that have a larger diameter than the respective discharge port  111 . The cavity  115  can also include a number of sub-cavities, each sub-cavity configured to receive a single actuator  120  and separated from an adjacent sub-cavity by a divider protruding from the surface, as depicted by example in  FIGS.  9  and  13   . The cavity  115  is preferably contiguous with the discharge ports  111 , but can alternatively be otherwise related to the discharge ports  111 . In one example, the cavity  115  intersects the second end of the discharge ports  111 . 
     2.1.5 Pilot Ports. 
     As shown in  FIG.  17   , the manifold  110  can additionally include one or more pilot ports  116 , which function to fluidly connect the discharge port(s)  111  to a second stage manifold  170  and permit the actuator(s)  120  to modulate airflow through the second stage manifold  170 . Preferably, the pilot port(s)  116  are arranged with a longitudinal axis (e.g., flow axis) extending out of the plane shared by the flow axes of the discharge port(s)  111  (e.g., at an oblique angle to the port plane, orthogonal to the port plane, etc.), such that the second stage manifold  170  does not extend substantially outside the broadest projected area of the manifold  110  when the second stage manifold  170  is coupled to the manifold  110 . Alternatively, the pilot port(s)  116  can be arranged in any suitable orientation, and configured in any suitable manner. 
     2.1.6 Internal Support Features. 
     The manifold  110  can additionally include one or more internal support features  117 , which function as registration and/or alignment features for aligning and properly orienting internal components (e.g., an actuator  120 ). The internal support features  117  can also function as load-bearing members of the manifold  110  that dampen, absorb, and/or provide reaction forces to dynamic components (e.g., actuators  120 ) during operation, in order to reduce wear on the system  100 . As shown in  FIG.  4   , an internal support feature  117  can include a ridge that cooperates with other portions of the cavity  115  in receiving the actuator(s)  120 . The internal support features  117  can additionally or alternatively include any suitable features that mechanically configure portions of the system  100  within the manifold  110  and/or provide mechanical support to portions of the system  100 . The manifold  110  can additionally include a valve retainer  119 , which functions to retain the actuators  120  within the cavity  115  and hold them in place. The valve retainer  119  is preferably molded into the manifold  110 , but can alternatively be inserted, fastened, or otherwise coupled to the manifold  110  in any suitable manner. Alternatively, the valve retainer  119  can be omitted entirely. 
     2.1.7 Manifold Examples. 
     In an example embodiment, the manifold  110  defines a first and second discharge port  111 , each discharge port  111  defining a flow axis extending between a first and second end of the discharge port  111 . Each discharge port  111  also defines a receiving region  112  at the second end. Each of the flow axes are arranged in a common plane, with each of the flow axes parallel to one another. The manifold  110  additionally defines a channel  114 , intersecting the first and second discharge port  111  between the first and second ends of each discharge port  111 . The manifold  110  additionally defines a cavity  115 , which intersects the second end of each discharge port  111 , forming a void intended to receive an actuator  120 . The manifold  110  additionally defines a pressure sensor port  113 , positioned between the first and second discharge port  111 , which defines a sensor insertion axis that is orthogonal to the common plane. The pressure sensor port  113  is separated from the first discharge port  111 , the second discharge port  111 , and the channel  114  by a thickness of the manifold  110 . The thickness can be specified by the mold from which the manifold  110  is made by injection-molding. The thickness of the manifold  110  can be removed (e.g., by drilling) between the pressure sensor port  113  and any one of the first discharge port  111 , the second discharge port  111 , and the channel  114 , in order to fluidly connect two of these regions. This fluid connection allows a pressure sensor  130 , arranged in the pressure sensor port  113 , to make a contact pressure measurement of the pressure in any one of the first discharge port  111 , the second discharge port  111 , and the channel  114 . 
     2.2 Actuator. 
     As shown in  FIG.  1   , the actuator  120  of the system  100  can include a barrel  122 , a body  124 , and a connector  126 . The actuator  120  functions to selectively bring the channel  114  into fluid communication with the discharge port  111  to which the actuator  120  is coupled. In one variation, the actuator  120  is selectively operable between an open position, wherein the actuator  120  permits fluid connection between the respective discharge port  111  and the channel  114 , and a closed mode, wherein the actuator  120  ceases (e.g., prevents) fluid flow between the respective discharge port  111  and the channel  114 . Actuator operation can be actively controlled by the electronics module, passively controlled, or otherwise controlled by any other suitable control system. The actuator  120  is preferably at least partially housed by the manifold, but can alternatively be arranged external the manifold (e.g., in variants where the manifold only defines the discharge ports  111  and the pressure sensor ports  113 ), or be arranged in any other suitable location relative to the manifold. 
     The actuator  120  can define an actuation axis, wherein the actuator  120  can be arranged within the cavity  115  such that the actuation axis is parallel (more preferably collinear or coaxial, but alternatively in any suitable configuration) with the flow axis of the first discharge port  111 . However, the actuator  120  can be arranged with the actuation axis at any suitable angle to the flow axis of the discharge port  111 . The actuator  120  is preferably configured to regulate the flow of a pressurized fluid between the channel  114  and the first end of the first discharge port  111 , but can alternatively regulate pressurized fluid flow between a first and second discharge port  111 , or regulate pressurized fluid flow in any other suitable flow pattern. 
     Actuator  120  operation in the open position preferably permits pressurized air to pass from the channel  114  to the discharge port  111 , and from that point onwards to any service attached to the discharge port  111 . Actuator actuation to the open position is preferably performed under the direct influence of the electronics module  140 , which itself may be autonomously, semi-autonomously, or manually controlled. The system preferably includes a plurality of actuators  120 , but alternatively there can be only a single actuator  120 . Each actuator  120  is preferably connected to and regulates a different discharge port  111 , but multiple actuators  120  can alternatively be connected to and regulate a single discharge port  111 , a single actuator  120  can be connected to and regulate multiple discharge ports  111 , or the system can include any other suitable actuator  120  and discharge port  111  configuration. 
     Each of the actuators  120  is preferably oriented parallel to the port plane, but can alternatively be arranged at an non-zero angle to the port plane, arranged perpendicular the port plane, or otherwise arranged. Each actuator  120  is preferably coaxially aligned with a respective discharge port  111 , but can alternatively be offset from the respective port or otherwise arranged. 
     The actuator  120  is preferably a solenoid valve, examples of which include a two-way direct acting solenoid valve, a two-way pressure-balanced solenoid valve, and a three-way solenoid valve. The solenoid valve can have one of a set of orifice sizes (e.g., a 2 mm orifice, a 4 mm orifice, and a 0.5 mm orifice) that governs the maximum flow rate through the solenoid valve between the channel  114  and the discharge port  111  during actuation, for a given pressure in the channel  114 . The actuator  120  can alternatively be any suitable linear or rotary actuator that enables electromechanical control of fluid communication between the channel  114  and one or more of the discharge ports  111 . The actuator  120  is preferably controlled by the electronics module  140  using a pulse-width modulated (PWM) signal, but can alternatively be controlled using an analog signal, a digital signal, an amplified analog or digital signal, or any other suitable electronic control scheme. 
     The barrel  122  is preferably a cylindrical portion of the housing of the actuator  120 , as shown in  FIG.  18   . The barrel  122  functions to seal the actuator  120  against the manifold  110 , preferably at the receiving region  112  but alternatively any suitable portion of the discharge port  111  or manifold  110 . The barrel  122  can include a void as shown in  FIG.  18   , which permits the channel  114  to fluidly couple to the discharge port  111  when the actuator  120  is in the open position. The barrel  122  can additionally include a constriction, as shown in  FIG.  18   , which permits the channel  114  to remain fluidly contiguous independently of the actuation of the actuator(s)  120 . The barrel  122  is preferably sealed against the manifold  110  using one or more elastomeric ring-type seals emplaced in circumferential external grooves in the surface of the barrel  122 , as shown in  FIG.  18   . Alternatively, the barrel  122  can be sealed using a press-fit, a weld, an airtight epoxy, a gasket, or using any other suitable seal. 
     The body  124  is preferably the bulk of the housing of the actuator  120 , excepting the barrel  122 , and functions to contain the other portions of the actuator  120  (e.g., a solenoid, a solenoid core, mechanical supports, etc.). The body  124  can be of an open-frame configuration that is unpressurized (e.g., at atmospheric pressure), due to the seal of the barrel  122  against the manifold  110 . The body  124  of each actuator  120  is preferably housed in the cavity  115  of the manifold  110 , and can be retained in the cavity  115  by one or more internal support features  117  of the manifold  110 . Alternatively, the body  124  can be retained in a sub-cavity of the cavity  115 , each sub-cavity configured to firmly couple to and retain the body  124  of a single actuator  120 . Alternatively, the body  124  can be mounted to the manifold (e.g., by screws, straps, adhesive, etc.). However, the body can be otherwise coupled to the manifold. The body is preferably coaxially arranged with and actuatably coupled to the barrel, but can alternatively be offset from the barrel, decoupled from the barrel, or otherwise arranged relative to the barrel. 
     The connector  126  preferably electrically couples the actuator  120  to the electronics module  140 , and functions to provide controllable power to the actuator  120  and to decouple mechanical and/or thermal loads of the actuator  120  from the electronics module  140 . Each actuator  120  preferably includes a single connector, but can alternatively include multiple connectors. Connectors are preferably not shared between actuators, but can alternatively be shared between actuators (e.g., wherein the connectors are connected to a common rail, wherein the actuators are connected to the common rail). When the actuator is assembled to the manifold, the connectors preferably extend orthogonal to the port plane, away from the cavity surface. Alternatively, the connectors can extend parallel to the port plane, at a non-zero angle to the port plane, or extend in any other suitable direction. In example variations, the connector  126  can be an articulated linkage, a wire, a soldered connector, a spring-loaded connector, a flying lead with an associated plug, or any suitable connection that electrically couples the actuator  120  to the electronics module  140  while maintaining mechanical and thermal isolation between the actuator  120  and the electronics module  140 . However, the connector  126  can be a pin, soldered junction, male/female connector, or be any other suitable connector. 
     One or more variations of the actuator(s)  120  can also omit one or more of the above elements, as well as provide a plurality of one or more of the above elements, in providing a suitable actuator  120 . 
     In an example embodiment, the system  100  includes a first and second actuator, wherein the first and second actuators are a first and second solenoid valve, respectively. Each solenoid valve is arranged within the cavity  115  and coaxially arranged with the first and second discharge ports  111 , respectively. Each solenoid valve includes a set of connectors  126 . The connectors  126  of each solenoid valve extends perpendicularly away from the common plane of the flow axes of the discharge ports  111  of the manifold  110 , and towards the electronics module  140 . Each solenoid valve  120  preferably includes a valve barrel that is configured to seal against the receiving region of the corresponding discharge port  111 . 
     2.3 Pressure Sensor. 
     As shown in  FIGS.  1  and  14   , the system  100  includes a pressure sensor  130 . The pressure sensor  130  functions to measure a signal indicative of the air pressure in one of several portions of the manifold  110  (e.g., in the pressure sensor port  113 , the channel  114 , the discharge port  111 , etc). The pressure sensor  130  can also function to enable control of the actuator(s)  120  based on pressures detected by the pressure sensor  130 . The pressure sensor  130  is preferably arranged in a pressure sensor port  113 , wherein the pressure sensor port  113  has preferably been “activated” (i.e., a fluid connection has been installed between one or more of the discharge ports  111 , the channel  114 , and the pressure sensor port  113 ) prior to assembly of the pressure sensor  130  in the pressure sensor port  113 . One or more variations of the pressure sensor(s)  130  can also omit one or more of the above elements, as well as provide a plurality of one or more of the above elements, in providing a suitable pressure sensor  130 . 
     The pressure sensor  130  is preferably a single point pressure transducer that outputs an electrical signal proportional to the pressure of a region of physical space that is fluidly connected to the pressure sensor  130 . However, the pressure sensor  130  can be any other suitable pressure sensor. Examples of the types of pressure that can be measured include: absolute pressure, gauge pressure, vacuum pressure, and differential pressure. Alternatively, the pressure sensor  130  can measure any suitable type of pressure. The pressure sensor  130  can sense the pressure by sensing one or more of: piezoresistive strain, the piezoelectric effect, a capacitive change, an inductance change, the Hall effect, eddy currents, electromagnetic disturbances, an optical path length change, a resistance change, a change in displacement, a change in resonant frequency, an ionization fraction, and a change in thermal conductivity. Alternatively, the pressure sensor  130  can sense the pressure by sensing any other suitable parameter of the fluid or of a container of the fluid. In an example embodiment, the pressure sensor  130  has a protrusion along the insertion axis of the pressure sensor  130  into the pressure sensor port  113 , and additionally includes a radial seal between the protrusion and the pressure sensor port  113 . In alternative variations, the pressure sensor  130  can seal against the pressure sensor port  113  in any suitable manner. 
     The pressure sensor  130  can additionally include a connector  132 . The connector  132  functions to electrically couple the pressure sensor  132  to the electronics module  140 , providing a conduit for power and/or data transfer. The connector  132  is preferably an electrical connector, but can alternatively be any other suitable connector. The connector  132  preferably includes a set of electrical leads, but can alternatively include a set of conductive linkages or have any other suitable configuration. The connector  132  can be rigid or flexible. The connector  132  may extend orthogonal to the port plane, away from the pressure sensor  130  and/or manifold, but can additionally or alternatively extend towards the electronics module  140 , as shown in  FIG.  15   , extend parallel to the connector  126  of the actuator  120 , or be arranged in any suitable manner. In an example embodiment, the connector  132  is a set of electrical leads, rigidly connected to the pressure sensor  130 , each of the set of electrical leads extending perpendicularly away from the shared plane of the flow axes of the discharge ports  111  and towards the electronics module  140 . 
     2.4 Electronics Module. 
     The electronics module  140  of the system  100  functions as an electronic command and control interface between the actuator(s)  120 , the pressure sensor(s)  130 , and other input or output electronic signals. The electronics module  140  can additionally cooperatively enclose the actuator(s)  120  and the pressure sensor(s)  130  within the manifold  110 . The electronics module can additionally function to control power provision to the connected components. As shown in  FIG.  1   , the electronics module  140  can include an electronics substrate  142 , a displacement sensor  144 , an input/output module  146 , a processor  148 , and an external connector  149 . 
     The electronics module  140  is preferably electrically connected to and controls the operation of the connector(s)  132  of the pressure sensor(s)  130  and the connector(s)  126  of the actuator(s)  120 . Alternatively, another control module can control one or all of the pressure sensors and actuators. The electronics module  140  is preferably a printed circuit board assembly (PCB), with the abovementioned elements wholly or partially mechanically supported and electrically connected to the PCB, but can alternatively be configured as a wire wrap circuit, a point-to-point soldered electrical circuit, or any other suitable configuration. One or more variations of the electronics module  140  can also omit one or more of the above elements, as well as provide a plurality of one or more of the above elements, in providing a suitable electronics module  140 . 
     The electronics substrate  142  functions as a physical attachment point for portions of the actuator(s)  120 , the pressure sensor(s)  130 , and other elements of the system  100  requiring an electronic interface. The footprint of the electronics substrate  142  preferably substantially matches that of the manifold, but can alternatively be smaller (e.g., extend over the pressure sensor ports  113  and the actuator connector locations, etc.), or larger. The electronics substrate  142  is preferably mounted to the manifold  110  distal the cavity surface, but can alternatively be mounted along any other suitable portion of the manifold  110  or system  100 . The electronics substrate  142  is preferably mounted to the manifold parallel the port plane, such that the connector(s)  132  and the connector(s)  126  substantially perpendicularly connect to the electronics substrate  142 , but can alternatively mount to the manifold in any other suitable orientation. However, the electronics substrate  142  can be mounted to the manifold  110  in any other suitable configuration. The electronics substrate  142  can be mounted to the manifold  110  using a set of screws, clips, adhesive, or any other suitable mounting mechanism. The electronics substrate  142  is preferably made of a phenolic resin or other non-conductive material, and preferably includes one or more embedded copper layers, in forming a portion of a printed circuit board. Alternatively, the electronics substrate  142  can be composed of any suitable material that provides mechanical support to elements of the electronics module  140 . 
     The displacement sensor  144  of the electronics module functions to detect and report a displacement measurement. A displacement measurement preferably includes a measurement of the relative distance or movement between the system  100  and a portion of a vehicle, but can additionally or alternatively include an absolute distance measurement, a motion measurement, or any other suitable measurement. For example, the displacement sensor  144  can detect the relative movement of the system  100  with respect to a strut of a vehicle suspension (e.g., system  100  rise relative to the strut), and transmit a quantitative representation of the raising of the system  100  to other portions of the electronics module  140  or coupled electronic systems. The displacement sensor  144  is preferably an array of Hall-effect sensors that is configured to sense the relative displacement of a magnet  144   b,  coupled to the chassis of a vehicle  400  using a bracket  144   c  as depicted in  FIG.  7   . The displacement sensor  144  can alternatively be any form of non-contact displacement sensor. As a further alternative, the displacement sensor  144  can be any suitable sensor capable of detecting the movement and/or displacement of the system  100 . The displacement sensor  144  is preferably arranged along a broad face of the electronics substrate  142  opposing (e.g., distal) the manifolds and/or actuators, but can alternatively be arranged along the broad face proximal the manifolds and/or actuators, be arranged on the manifold, or be arranged in any other suitable location. The electronics module  140  can include one displacement sensor  144  per strut; one displacement sensor  144  per manifold; one displacement sensor  144  per actuator; multiple displacement sensors  144  per strut, manifold, or actuator; one displacement sensor  144  for multiple struts, manifolds, or actuators; or include any suitable number of displacement sensor  144  configured to couple to and/or monitor any other suitable system component. However, the electronics module  140  can include and/or be connected to any other suitable set of sensors. 
     The input/output (I/O) module  146  of the electronics module  140  functions to route (transmit, receive, transfer) any electronic signals received or generated by the electronics module  140  to other portions of the electronics module  140  or to electrically connected external systems. The I/O module  146  can include a communicator (e.g., a wired or wireless transceiver) and a connector (e.g., on-board data connection, on-board power connection, off-board data connection, off-board power connection, etc.), but can alternatively or additionally include any other suitable set of components. The I/O module  146  can also interface with buttons, switches, lights, speakers, microphones, levers, or any other suitable input and output mechanisms in providing a communication interface between the electronics module  140  and other portions of the system  100  and/or connected external systems. 
     The processor  148  of the electronics module  140  functions to provide computing resources to the electronics module  140 , and can also function to entirely or partially control portions of the system  100  (e.g., the actuator(s)  120 ). The processor  148  preferably executes command and control instructions received from an externally connected system, but can additionally or alternatively execute such instructions generated internally and cooperatively by elements of the system  100 , or in combination with an externally connected system. The processor  148  can be a CPU, GPU, microprocessor, or any other suitable processor. The system can include one or more processors  148 . 
     The external connector  149  of the electronics module  140  functions as a physical electronic interface between an externally connected system (e.g., the vehicle) and the electronics module  140 . As shown in  FIG.  10   , examples of an external connector  149  can include specific male and/or female electrical pin arrangements, as well as a housing to facilitate proper coupling of the external connector  149  with mating components. One or more pins of the external connector  149  are preferably electrically coupled to the electronics substrate  142 , in order to facilitate transfer of electrical signals between the external connector  149  and other portions of the electronics module  140 . At least certain segments of the pins of the external connector  149  preferably extend in a parallel direction to the connector(s)  126  and the connector(s)  132 , such that the pins, connector(s)  126 , and connector(s)  132  all intersect the plane of the electronics substrate  142  while extended along the same direction. Alternatively, the pins of the external connector  149  can be connected to flexible wires, or rigidly extend in any suitable direction. The external connector  149  can extend outside of the housing (cooperatively formed by the manifold and cover), terminate flush with the exterior surface of the housing, extend beyond the housing, or extend to any other suitable endpoint. 
     In an example embodiment, the electronics module  140  is arranged parallel to the common plane of the flow axes of the discharge ports  111  of the manifold  110 . The electronics module  140  and the manifold  110  cooperatively enclose the first solenoid valve  120   a,  the second solenoid valve  120   a,  and the pressure sensor  130 . The electronics module  140  is configured to receive and electrically couple to the electrical leads of the pressure sensor  130 , the connector  126  of the first solenoid valve  120   a,  and the connector  126  of the second solenoid valve  120   a.  The electrical leads and connectors are preferably soldered to the electronics substrate  142  of the electronics module  140 , but can alternatively be otherwise electrically and/or physically connected to the electronics substrate  142 . 
     2.5 Cover. 
     As shown in  FIG.  10   , the cover  150  can include a pressure sensor support  152 , an electronics retainer  154 , a connector housing  156 , a seal  158 , and a manifold retainer  159 . The cover  150  functions to cooperatively define a housing with the manifold  110 , wherein the housing encloses the actuator(s)  120 , the pressure sensor(s)  130 , and the electronics module  140 . The cover  150  can also function to form a fluid impermeable seal against the manifold  110 , such that the system  100  (e.g., housing) can maintain a positive internal pressure. Alternatively, the housing can be substantially fluid permeable. In some variations, the lumen defined between the cover  150  and the manifold  110  can be wholly or partially filled with a potting compound. 
     The cover can define a broad face, longitudinal axis, thickness (e.g., perpendicular the broad face), or any other suitable dimension or component. In one variation, the cover is configured to mount to the manifold with the cover broad face substantially parallel a manifold broad face. In a second variation, the cover is configured to mount to the manifold with the cover broad face perpendicular a manifold broad face (e.g., with the cover broad face perpendicular the manifold longitudinal axis). However, the cover can couple to the manifold in any other suitable manner. 
     The pressure sensor support  152  of the cover  150  functions to counteract pressure force exerted on the pressure sensor  130 . The pressure sensor support  152  preferably prevents the electronics module  140  from experiencing stress and/or strain that can result from a pressure force exerted on the pressure sensor  130 . The pressure sensor support  152  is preferably a scaffold, extending at least partially from the internal surface of the cover  150 , and includes at least one post substantially aligned with and extending towards a corresponding pressure sensor  130 , pressure sensor mounting point on the electronics substrate  142 , and/or pressure sensor port  113 . However, the posts can be otherwise arranged. The cover preferably includes one post for each pressure sensor port  113 , but can alternatively include any suitable number of posts. The cover can alternatively include any other suitable mechanical mechanism in lieu of a post for applying a reaction force to the pressure sensor  130  (e.g., a spring). The pressure sensor support  152  can alternatively be integrated with the pressure sensor port  113  of the manifold  110 , e.g., as a set of snaps, as shown in  FIG.  21   . The post preferably abuts a surface of the pressure sensor  130 , more preferably an end of the pressure sensor distal the manifold, but can alternatively be separated from the pressure sensor  130 , or be otherwise arranged relative to the pressure sensor. In the variation in which the post abuts the pressure sensor, the post can provide a force path between the pressure sensor  130  and the cover  150 , thereby circumventing the electronics module  140  (e.g., prevent the pressure sensor  130  movement from substantially deforming the electronics module  140 ). Alternatively, any other suitable structure of the cover  150  can provide the described force path, in routing the pressure force away from the electronics module  140  and electronics substrate  142 . The post end proximal (e.g., abutting) the pressure sensor  130  preferably has a larger surface area than the pressure sensor end, but can alternatively have a smaller surface area or any other suitable surface area. The post end proximal the pressure sensor can be bare, include a set of dampening mechanisms (e.g., springs, foam, etc.), or include any other suitable component. 
     The electronics retainer  154  of the cover  150  preferably functions to securely hold the electronics substrate  142  in position (e.g., retain the electronics substrate), as shown by example in  FIG.  14   . The retainer  154  is preferably one or more snaps, into which the electronics substrate  142  can be pressed, slid, clipped, or otherwise removably fastened. The electronics retainer  154  can alternatively be any other form of removable or permanent fastening subsystem or component that suitably retains the electronics substrate  142  and/or the electronics module  140  in the void between the cover  150  and the manifold  110 . In another specific example, the electronics retainer  154  is integrated with (e.g., molded into, defined by, fastened to) the manifold  110 , and is not part of the cover  150 . In a variation of this specific example, the electronics substrate  142  is snapped into the manifold  110  and does not interface with the cover  150 . Alternatively, the system  100  omits the electronics retainer  154 . 
     The connector housing  156  of the cover  150  functions to protect the electrical interface of the external connector  149 , as well as to facilitate manual coupling and decoupling of external systems to the external connector  149 . The connector housing  156  is preferably a boss extending from the cover  150  around the external connector  149 , and can include one or more grooves, snaps, ridges, and similar features to facilitate coupling as described. The connector housing  156  can extend perpendicular the cover broad face, parallel the cover broad face, or in any other suitable direction at any suitable angle. An example connector housing  156  is depicted in  FIG.  14   . In a specific example, the connector housing  156  is molded into the manifold  110  instead of the cover  150 . In another specific example, portions of the connector housing  156  are defined by the cover  150 , and separate portions of the connector housing  156  are defined by the manifold  110 , the two portions cooperatively defining the connector housing  156 . 
     The seal  158  of the cover  150  functions to prevent uncontrolled fluid communication between the exterior and interior of the housing. The seal  158  preferably facilitates the internal pressurization of the coupled cover  150  and manifold  110 , though the coupled cover  150  and manifold  110  may not be entirely or partially pressurized during normal operation. The seal  158  preferably extends along the entirety of the junction between the manifold and the cover, but can alternatively extend along a portion of the junction or be arranged in any other suitable location. In variations in which the void between the cover  150  and manifold  110  is filled or partially filled with a potting compound, the seal  158  can function to retain the potting compound within the void. The seal  158  is preferably an elastomeric ring, emplaced along a raised boss of either the manifold  110  or cover  150 , as illustrated by example in  FIG.  10   . Alternatively, the seal  158  can be a weld joint, an epoxy layer, a gasket, or any other suitable seal between the cover  150  and the manifold  110 . The seal  158  can additionally or alternatively include a plurality of seals  158  or sealed regions, located at any portion of the manifold  110  or cover  150  that includes a hole, leak path, opening, joint, or any other region or orifice through which fluid can pass. 
     The manifold retainer  159  of the cover  150  functions to retain the cover  150  against the manifold  110 . In some variations, the manifold retainer  159  is one or more snaps that allow the cover  150  to be clipped (snapped, press-fit) to the manifold  110 . In other variations, the manifold retainer  159  can be a set of bolts, screws, nuts, and/or holes that cooperatively fasten the manifold  110  to the cover  150 . In still further variations, the manifold retainer  159  is a weld joint between the cover  150  and the manifold  110 . The manifold retainer  159  can additionally or alternatively include a combination of removable and permanent coupling mechanisms and/or fasteners, or any other suitable device for retaining the cover  150  against the manifold  110 . In a specific example, the cover  150  is welded to the manifold  110 , preferably by plastic welding (e.g., ultrasonic welding, hot plate welding, linear vibration welding, etc.), but alternatively by any suitable form of welding or means of affixing the cover  150  to the manifold  110 . 
     2.6 Filter. 
     The system  100  can optionally include a filter  160 , which can include an input  161 , a filter plate  162 , an expansion chamber  163 , a filter element  164 , and a drain port  165 . The filter  160  functions to process potentially moist, dirty air from a compressor and provide clean, dry air to the manifold  110 . The filter  160  preferably defines an inlet (input  161 ) and an outlet. The inlet is preferably connected to the ambient environment, but can alternatively be connected to a pump, a fluid source, or any other fluid source. The filter outlet is preferably fluidly connected to the manifold  110 , more preferably the channel  114 , but can alternatively be fluidly connected to the manifold ports, the actuator, the housing interior, or to any other suitable endpoint. In some variations, portions of the filter  160  are defined by the manifold  110 , as depicted in  FIG.  5   . The filter  160  is preferably an integrated, coalescing, self-purging filter. A coalescing filter can be a filter that includes a region of porous, absorbent material that creates a tortuous path for air flowing through the region. This tortuous path through the material preferably causes moisture to be absorbed into the material, and wicked towards the edge(s) of the region to be excreted from the region and subsequently expelled from the filter. Alternatively, a coalescing filter can be any other suitable filter that coalesces fluid (e.g., liquids), particulates, or other components from the fluid flowing therethrough. An integrated filter can be a filter that is at least partially integrated with the manifold  110 . However, the filter  160  can be any other suitable filter type. The filter  160  can also include a housing, and the housing is preferably at least partially defined by the manifold  110  (e.g., the manifold  110  includes a chamber that forms the expansion chamber  163  of the filter  160 ). A self-purging filter can be a filter that exhausts the condensed moisture and/or removed particulates as a result of the airflow through the filter during normal operation (e.g., periodically, constantly, when a pressure condition is met, etc.). The filter  160  is preferably positioned adjacent to the cavity  115  of the manifold  110 , in order to provide a compact package size of the system  100 , as depicted in  FIGS.  8  and  12   . Alternatively, the filter  160  can be an inline filter that is indirectly coupled to the manifold  110  by way of a compressed air line, or positioned in any suitable location relative to the manifold  110  (e.g., separated by a distance, in a central portion of the manifold  110 , etc.). Alternatively, the filter  160  can be arranged in any other suitable configuration. 
     The input  161  of the filter  160  functions to couple a fluid source, more preferably a source of compressed air but alternatively another fluid source, to the system  100 , and to provide the compressed air to other portions of the system  100  after passing through the filter  160 . The input  161  can include a fitting, configured to couple to a standardized air hose, air compressor, or similar. The input  161  can also be separate from the filter  160 , and can additionally or alternatively be included in variations that do not have an integrated filter  160 , as an input point to the channel  114 . In variations including a filter  160  without an expansion chamber  163  or without a filter  160 , the input  161  is preferably oriented perpendicularly to the discharge ports  111 , as shown in  FIG.  8   . Alternatively, the input  161  can be oriented in any suitable direction that permits coupling to the channel  114 . 
     The filter plate  162  of the filter  160  functions to process particulates in the compressed air entering the filter  160 . Processing of the particulates can include capturing, deflecting, absorbing, collecting, neutralizing, or any other suitable form of processing. The filter plate  162  may be oriented orthogonal to the inflow direction to maximize the flux of entrained particulates at the surface of the filter plate  162 , but can alternatively be oriented in any suitable manner along or adjacent to the flow path through the filter  160 . Particulates that can be processed (removed, neutralized) include water droplets, dust, sand, metallic pieces, or any other particles entrained in the airflow. 
     The expansion chamber  163  of the filter  160  functions to condense moisture that may be present in the inflowing compressed air. The moisture is preferably condensed by altering the thermodynamic state (e.g., the specific volume by way of expanding) of the inflowing air such that any entrained water vapor changes phase into droplets of liquid water, which can then collect in a portion of the expansion chamber  163  for subsequent removal via the drain port  165 . This process separates condensed moisture from the resulting dry air. However, the moisture can be condensed in any other suitable manner. The expansion chamber  163  is preferably an elongated void within the filter  160 , and preferably has a large volume relative to the volume of the inlet region of the filter  160  in order to facilitate expansion. Alternatively, the expansion chamber  163  can be any suitable shape and/or size. 
     The filter element  164  of the filter  160  functions to process impurities that may remain in the inflowing air after passing through other portions of the filter  160 . Processing of the impurities can include all the forms of processing described above with respect to the filter plate  162 , as well as any other suitable forms of processing. The filter element  164  is preferably disposed between the manifold  110  and the filter  160 , such that fluid passing from the latter into the former must pass through the filter element  164 , but can alternatively be configured in any suitable manner. The filter element  164  is preferably a coalescing filter, and preferably includes a region of fibrous and porous material through which the air is directed to pass as it flows through the filter  160 . Alternatively, the filter element  164  can be an activated carbon filter, a mesh screen, or any other suitable filtering element. 
     The drain port  165  of the filter  160  functions to expel substances that have been filtered out of the inflowing compressed air from the system  100 . The drain port  165  may include a poppet-regulated self-actuating valve, and may automatically expel the filtered substances during operation of the system  100 . This can occur, for example, upon actuation of one or more of the actuator(s)  120 , creating a pressure difference within the system  100  that moves a poppet valve of the drain port  165 . 
     2.7 Second Stage Manifold. 
     The system  100  can optionally include a second stage manifold  170 , which can include a movable obstruction  172 , a tube  174 , and a gasket  176 . The second stage manifold  170  functions to provide an alternative flow system that is controllable based upon the airflow through the manifold  110 . In some variations, the second stage manifold  170  can function as a high-flow-rate manifold that is controlled by a low-flow-rate manifold  110 . The second stage manifold  170  is preferably removable and serviceable in the field (e.g., by a user of the system  100  or driver of a vehicle  400  to which the system  100  is coupled), but can alternatively be substantially permanent. As shown in  FIG.  11   , the second stage manifold  170  is preferably coupled to the manifold  110  such that the second stage manifold  170  and the manifold  110  are stacked (e.g., vertically, along the flow direction, etc.), and the flow direction of air from the manifold  110  to the second stage manifold  170  is perpendicular to the flow direction along the discharge ports  111  of the manifold  110 . However, the second stage manifold  170  can be oriented relative to the manifold  110  in any other suitable configuration. The system can include one or more second stage manifolds, arranged in any suitable configuration. 
     The movable obstruction  172  of the second stage manifold  170  functions to regulate a flow of air at a higher flow rate than is typically desired from the actuator(s)  120 , but can alternatively regulate a lower or higher fluid flow rate. The movable obstruction can be an air-piloted valve, or be any other suitable valve. The air-piloted valve is preferably a poppet valve, as illustrated in  FIG.  11   , and is preferably actuated by applying a differential pressure and/or air flow to the poppet (e.g., it is air-piloted), using, for example, the actuator(s)  120 . However, the movable obstruction  172  can be actively controlled or otherwise controlled. The movable obstruction  172  within the tube  174  is operable between an open state and a closed state, based on a controlled fluid flow directed by the actuator  120 . 
     The tube  174  of the second stage manifold  170  functions to direct air flow from a compressed air source to an output of the second stage manifold  170 , mediated by the movable obstruction  172 . As shown in  FIG.  11   , the movable obstruction  172  is preferably actuatably housed by a portion of the tube  174  and can function to alternately block and/or permit airflow through, past, around, or otherwise traversing the movable obstruction  172 . However, the movable obstruction  172  can be connected to the tube  174  in any other suitable manner, or the movable obstruction  172  can be unconnected from the tube  174 . The tube  174  is preferably fluidly connected to a pilot port  116  of the manifold  110 , but can alternatively be connected to any other suitable portion of the manifold  110  or system  100 . 
     The gasket  176  of the second stage manifold  170  functions to seal the manifold  110  against the second stage manifold  170 . In particular, the gasket  176  can function to seal the pilot port(s)  116  of the manifold  110  against the tube  174  and/or the air-piloted valve  172  of the second stage manifold  170 . The gasket  176  can include: a sheet gasket, a rubber gasket, a silicone gasket, a plastic gasket, a metal gasket, or any other suitable type of gasket and/or seal. 
     2.8 Specific Examples of the System. 
     In a first example of the system  100 , the system  100  includes a pressure sensor support, a printed circuit board assembly (PCBA), a cover, a pressure sensor, and a solenoid valve. A pressure sensor support  152 ′ is incorporated into the pressure sensor port  113  of the manifold as a set of snaps, and retains the pressure sensor  130 ′ while withstanding any pressure force pushing on the pressure sensor  130 ′. The PCBA  140 ′ is retained by a set of snaps molded into the manifold. Each solenoid valve  120 ′ forms a radial seal between a barrel  122  and a respective interior of the injection-molded plastic port  111 ′. Each valve  120 ′ has a vertically extending connector  126 ′, and is soldered directly to the PCBA  140 ′ along with each pressure sensor  120 ′. A connector housing  156 ′ is molded into the manifold  110 ′, and includes an external connector  149 ′. Portions of the pins of the external connector  149 ′ extend upwards, parallel to the connector  126 ′ and pressure sensor connector  132 ′ of the valve  120 ′ and pressure sensor  130 ′, respectively. The PCBA  140 ′ is located and retained by a number of snaps, tabs and slots  154 ′ in the manifold  110 ′, and receives the pins of the external connector  149 ′, the valve connector  126 ′, and the pressure sensor connector  132 ′ in a single common plane. This enables the aforementioned pins and connectors to be electrically connected (e.g., soldered) to the PCBA  140 ′ in a single assembly step, without changing the orientation of the assembly. The cover  150 ′ is affixed to the manifold  110 ′ by welding, and welding is performed by linear vibration welding. The valve  120 ′ can be used to actuate one or more air-piloted valves  172  in a second manifold stage  170 . Each valve  120 ′ is located in the cavity  115 ′ of the manifold  110 ′, and has an open frame and coil assembly. The operating voltage of the electronics module  140 ′ is 8 to 16 V. However, the system can include any suitable set of components in any other suitable configuration. 
     In a second example of the system  100 , the system  100  includes a pressure sensor support, a printed circuit board assembly, a cover, a pressure sensor, and a solenoid valve. A pressure sensor support  152 ′ extends towards a printed circuit board assembly (PCBA)  140 ′ from the interior of the cover  150 ′, and retains both the pressure sensor  130 ′ and the PCBA  140 ′ while withstanding any pressure force pushing on the pressure sensor  130 ′. The PCBA  140 ′ has 19 mm of clearance above the front portion of the PCBA  140 ′ and 6 mm of clearance above the rear portion of the PCBA  140 ′ between the PCBA  140 ′ and the cover  150 ′. The PCBA  140 ′ has 2 mm of clearance beneath it, between the PCBA  140 ′ and the manifold  110 ′, as well as 1.5 mm of clearance around the perimeter of the PCBA  140 ′. Each solenoid valve  120 ′ forms a radial seal between a 2.8 mm barrel  122 ′ and a respective interior of the injection-molded plastic port  111 ′. Each valve  120 ′ has a 30 mm long flying lead with a Japan Solderless Terminal (JST) connector  126 ′, and each pressure sensor  120 ′ is soldered directly to the PCBA  140 ′. The PCBA  140 ′ is located and retained by the pressure sensors  130 ′ as well as a number of tabs and slots  154 ′ in the cover  150 ′. There are at least three variations of the solenoid valve  120 ′, each built on the same winding bobbin, injection-molded body parts, and stamped steel frame, and varying the size of the molded orifice, the coil winding, and other internal components. The first variation of the valve  120 ′ is a two-way, normally closed, direct acting solenoid valve with a 1.5 mm orifice. The second variation of the valve  120 ′ is a two-way, normally closed, pressure-balanced direct acting solenoid valve with a 4 mm orifice. The third variation of the valve  120 ′ is a three-way, normally closed pilot solenoid valve with a 0.5 mm orifice. The third variation of the valve  120 ′ can be used to actuate one or more air-piloted valves  172  in a second manifold stage  170 . Each valve  120 ′ is located in the cavity  115 ′ of the manifold  110 ′, and has an open frame and coil assembly. The operating voltage of the electronics module  140 ′ is 8 to 16 V. However, the system can include any suitable set of components in any other suitable configuration. 
     The system  100  can include any other suitable elements configured to control pressurized airflow, provide mechanical support to internal or external components, mount (couple, connect, affix) the system  100  to related systems (e.g., a vehicle or part of a vehicle), transfer data or electrical power between elements of the system  100  and externally connected systems or components, attach services requiring a source or sink of compressed air or fluid (e.g., fittings), and couple various elements of the system  100  to one another. Furthermore, as a person skilled in the art will recognize from the previous detailed description and from the figures, modifications and changes can be made to the system  100  without departing from the scope of the system  100 . 
     3. Method of Manufacture. 
     As shown in  FIG.  19   , an embodiment of a method  200  for manufacturing an electronically controlled air suspension system includes: injection-molding a manifold; inserting valves into the manifold; positioning pressure sensors within the manifold; and electronically coupling an electronics module to the pressure sensors and valves. The method  200  can additionally or alternatively include: rotating valves into a locked position within the manifold; affixing a cover to cooperatively form an enclosure between the cover and the manifold; filling interior voids of the enclosure with a potting compound; and post-processing the injection-molded manifold. An electronically controlled air suspension system is preferably a system such as the system  100  described above, but can alternatively be any suitable system. Injection-molding the manifold can include: splitting the cross section of the manifold mold along the centerline of the manifold, parallel to the first and second broad faces of the manifold; and molding the manifold to form webbing between a set of discharge ports  111  defined by the manifold, to facilitate material flow during injection molding and provide mechanical strength to the final component. Electronically coupling the electronics module to the pressure sensors and valves can include: aligning any electrical connectors of the pressure sensors and the valves in a common direction, coaxially aligning the electrical connectors of the pressure sensors and the valves and a set of through-holes in the electronics module, and soldering the electrical connectors of the pressure sensors and the valves to the electronics module at the set of through-holes. In one variation, system assembly can occur concurrently with component electrical connection. In one example, the PCBA can be assembled using top-down assembly, wherein PCBA assembly to the manifold can concurrently connect the pressure sensors and solenoid valves to the PCBA. However, the system can be otherwise assembled. Soldering is preferably performed as a single simultaneous or sequential operation, enabled by the electrical connectors all sharing a common direction and passing through a common plane, but can alternatively be otherwise performed. However, the system can be otherwise manufactured. 
     The FIGURES illustrate the architecture, functionality and operation of possible implementations of systems, methods and computer program products according to preferred embodiments, example configurations, and variations thereof. In this regard, each block in the flowchart or block diagrams can represent a module, segment, step, or portion of code, which comprises one or more executable instructions for implementing the specified logical function(s). It should also be noted that, in some alternative implementations, the functions noted in the block can occur out of the order noted in the FIGURES. For example, two blocks shown in succession can, in fact, be executed substantially concurrently, or the blocks can sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality involved. It will also be noted that each block of the block diagrams and/or flowchart illustration, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and/or flowchart illustration, can be implemented by special purpose hardware-based systems that perform the specified functions or acts, or combinations of special purpose hardware and computer instructions. 
       FIGS.  22 A- 22 C  show a second manifold  210  of the present disclosure, including a filter assembly  250 . The second manifold  210  includes three discharge ports  111  and three actuators  120 , with each of the actuators  120  configured to selectively control fluid communication between the channel  114  and a corresponding one of the discharge ports  111 . The second manifold  210  may be similar or identical to the manifold  110 , except for the differences described herein and shown in  FIGS.  22 A- 22 C . The second manifold  210  may be used for controlling airflow in an air suspension system. The second manifold  210  may be used in other applications and/or to supply other pneumatic devices in a vehicle, such as for controlling tire inflation. 
     The second manifold  210  defines a purge valve bore  220  configured to receive a purge valve assembly  222  that is configured to selectively control fluid flow between the expansion chamber  163  and the drain port  165  for removing moisture and/or other contaminants removed by the filter assembly  250 . The purge valve assembly  222  includes a purge valve body  224  having a cylindrical shape and defining a purge valve passage  226 . The purge valve body  224  is rotatable within the purge valve bore  220  to selectively align the purge valve passage  226  with the drain port  165  to control fluid flow therethrough between the expansion chamber  163  and the drain port  165 . The purge valve body  224  includes a purge body tab  228  that protrudes from the second manifold  210  for rotating the purge valve body  224 . For example, the purge body tab  228  may be rotated by fingers of a user and/or a rotary actuator for rotating the purge valve body  224  and thereby controlling fluid flow through the purge valve assembly  222 . 
     The purge valve body  224  defines a purge retainer slot  230  annularly about an outer surface thereof. The purge retainer slot  230  is configured to receive a purge body retainer  232  for holding the purge valve body  224  within the second manifold  210 . As best shown in  FIG.  22 A , the purge body retainer  232  has a U-shape and may be made of metal, such as stainless steel. However, the purge body retainer  232  may be made of another suitable material. The second manifold  210  defines a pair of purge retainer holes  234  intersecting the purge valve bore  220  perpendicular to an axis thereof and adjacent to an edge thereof for receiving the purge body retainer  232  and for holding the purge valve body  224  within the second manifold  210 . 
     As shown in  FIG.  22 B , the expansion chamber  163  has a cylindrical shape and defines a chamber axis Ac, which extends substantially coplanar with the flow axis of one or more of the discharge ports  111 . For example, the chamber axis Ac may extend in a common plane with the flow axes of the discharge ports  111 . Alternatively, the chamber axis Ac may extend parallel to and spaced apart by a small distance, such as a few millimeters, from a common plane defined by the flow axes of the discharge ports  111 . It may be critical for the expansion chamber  163 , or a passageway extending therefrom, to intersect a plane defined by the flow axes of one or more of the discharge ports  111  for providing fluid communication between the expansion chamber  163  and the channel  114 . 
     The filter assembly  250  is disposed in the expansion chamber  163  and includes a filter outlet disc  252  having a disc shape with a plurality of notches  254  in a peripheral edge thereof. The filter outlet disc  252  also includes a central bore  256  extending therethrough. The filter assembly  250  also includes a filter member  258  having a tubular shape and which is disposed coaxially with the chamber axis Ac. The filter outlet disc  252  is covers an axial end of the filter member  258  and protrudes radially outwardly beyond an outer surface of the filter member  258 . The filter assembly  250  also includes a filter input disc  260  that covers an axial end of the filter member  258  opposite the filter outlet disc  252 . The filter outlet disc  252  and the filter input disc  260  may, together, hold the filter member  258  in position within the expansion chamber  163 . 
     The second manifold  210  also includes a filter cap assembly  261  with an integrated supply valve for controlling fluid flow from a source, such as an air compressor, into the filter assembly  250 . The filter cap assembly  261  includes a filter cap body  270  integrally formed with a supply valve body  280 , enclosing an end of the expansion chamber  163  and selectively removable from the second manifold  210  to provide access to the filter assembly  250 . For example, the filter cap assembly  261  may be removable from the second manifold  210  to enable service of one or more components of the filter assembly  250 , such as cleaning or replacement of the filter member  258 . The filter cap assembly  261  also includes an input port  284  configured to receive a fluid connection to a compressed air source. The input port  284  may include, for example, a pneumatic fitting configured to engage and retain a plastic air line with an airtight connection. 
     The supply valve body  280  defines a supply valve bore having a cylindrical shape configured to receive a supply valve member  282  that is configured to selectively control fluid flow between the input port  284  and the expansion chamber  163 . The supply valve member  282  has a cylindrical shape and defines a supply valve passage  283 . The supply valve member  282  is rotatable within the supply valve body  280  to selectively align the supply valve passage  283  with the input port  284  to control fluid flow therethrough between the input port  284  and the expansion chamber  163 . The supply valve member  282  includes a supply valve tab  286  that protrudes from the supply valve body  280  for rotating the supply valve member  282 . For example, the supply valve tab  286  may be rotated by fingers of a user and/or a rotary actuator for rotating the supply valve member  282 , and thereby controlling fluid flow through the supply valve body  280 . 
     The filter cap body  270  defines an input passage  272  providing fluid communication from the supply valve body  280  into the expansion chamber  163 . The filter cap body  270  also defines a plurality of castellations  274  disposed at regular angular intervals and annularly about the input passage  272 . As best shown in  FIG.  22 A , the filter cap body  270  also defines a cap retainer slot  276  annularly about an outer surface thereof. The cap retainer slot  276  is configured to receive a filter cap retainer  278  for holding filter cap assembly  261  within the second manifold  210 . The filter cap retainer  278  has a U-shape and may be made of metal, such as stainless steel. However, the filter cap retainer  278  may be made of another suitable material. The second manifold  210  defines a pair of cap retainer holes  279  intersecting the expansion chamber  163  perpendicular to an axis thereof and adjacent to an edge thereof for receiving the filter cap retainer  278  and for holding the filter cap assembly  261  within the second manifold  210 . 
     The filter input disc  260  has a solid central portion with a disc shape that covers the input passage  272  of the filter cap body  270  and thereby forces air from the input port  284  to be directed radially outwardly between the castellations  274 . The filter input disc  260  also includes a plurality of angled blades  266  disposed annularly about the solid central portion that agitates and/or imparts a rotation in air passing therethrough. The filter input disc  260  also defines a regaining ring  264  that protrudes from a surface thereof for holding the filter member  258  in a position coaxially within the expansion chamber  163  and spaced apart from an inner surface thereof. 
     As best shown in  FIG.  22 B , the expansion chamber  163  includes an annular chamber  290 , a collection chamber  291 , and an interior chamber  292 . The filter member  258  separates the annular chamber  290 , which extends annularly thereabout, from the interior chamber  292 . The filter outlet disc  252  separates each of the annular chamber  290  and the interior chamber  292  from the collection chamber  291 . The notches  254  in the filter outlet disc  252  provide fluid communication between the annular chamber  290  and the collection chamber  291 . Moisture and other contaminants, such as dust, which cannot pass through the filter member  258  may be collected in the collection chamber  291  until the moisture and other contaminants can be removed by the purge valve assembly  222 . 
     The purge valve assembly  222  may be opened in a purge operation to provide fluid flow between the expansion chamber  163  and the drain port  165 . In some embodiments, the purge operation may be initiated when water and/or debris builds-up in the collection chamber  291 . For example, the purge valve assembly  222  may be operated as an automatic purge, such as using a float-bowl style actuator. Additionally or alternatively, the purge operation may be initiated in response to an internal differential pressure exceeding a threshold value. In other words, the purge operation may be automatically initiated based on a pressure differential. One or more solenoid valves within the within the second manifold  210  may be actuated to provide such a pressure differential and to thereby force the purge valve assembly  222  to perform the purge operation. Additionally or alternatively, the purge operation may be initiated manually. For example, a person may grip the purge body tab  228  with two or more fingers and manually rotate the purge valve body  224  to an open position. The person may also manually stop the purge operation by gripping the purge body tab  228  and rotating the purge valve body  224  to a closed position, thereby re-sealing the system. 
     As shown in  FIGS.  22 B and  22 C , the second manifold  210  also includes an input tube  294  that extends into the expansion chamber  163  and coaxially therewith. The input tube  294  extends through the collection chamber  291  and through the central bore  256  of the filter outlet disc  252 . The input tube  294  has a tubular shape defining a first input passage  296  in fluid communication with the interior chamber  292 . The second manifold  210  also defines a second input passage  298  that extends perpendicular to and intersecting the first input passage  296 . Together, the first input passage  296  and the second input passage  298  provide fluid communication between the interior chamber  292  of the filter assembly  250  and the channel  114 . As shown in  FIG.  22 B , the first input passage  296  intersects the second input passage  298  at a right angle and with a T-shape. A plug  299  closes an end of the second input passage  298  opposite from the channel  114 . 
     In operation, air enters the second manifold  210  via the input port  284  and passes through supply valve body  280  and into the input passage  272 . The air is then directed radially outwardly, through the angled blades  266  and into the annular chamber  290 . The air then flows from the annular chamber  290 , through the filter member  258  and into the interior chamber  292 , as filtered air. The filtered air exits from the interior chamber  292  via the first input passage  296  and the second input passage  298  and into the channel  114 , where it is directed through one or more of the discharge ports  111  via actuation of the actuators  120 . 
       FIGS.  23 A- 23 D  show schematic diagrams of the diagram of the second manifold  210  in various different operating modes.  FIG.  23 A  shows the second manifold  210  in a supply OFF mode, with the supply valve member  282  in a closed position to block fluid flow from the input port  284  into the second manifold  210 .  FIG.  23 B  shows the second manifold  210  in a supply ON mode, with the supply valve member  282  in an opened position to allow fluid flow from the input port  284  into the second manifold  210 .  FIG.  23 C  shows a schematic diagram of the second manifold in a system flow ON mode, with one the supply valve member  282  and one of the actuators  120  each opened to allow airflow from the input port  284 , through the filter member  258 , and out one of the discharge ports  111 .  FIG.  23 D  shows the second manifold  210  in a purge mode, with the purge valve body  224  in an opened position to allow fluid flow from the collection chamber  291  out of the drain port  165  to eject debris and moisture collected in the collection chamber  291 . 
     The foregoing description is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure. Individual elements or features of a particular embodiment are generally not limited to that particular embodiment, but, where applicable, are interchangeable and can be used in a selected embodiment, even if not specifically shown or described. The same may also be varied in many ways. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the disclosure.