Vacuum system and method for operating a vacuum system

Abstract

Vacuum system (14), comprising: a vacuum suction device (32) that is directly coupled to a housing (48) of an intake manifold (26), wherein the vacuum suction device (32) has an air intake port (36), a vacuum port (38), a manifold port (40), and a housing, the housing comprising a surface that surrounds the manifold port (40) and is in surface-sharing contact with a section of the housing (48) of the intake manifold (26) adjacent to a manifold vacuum passage (46) that passes through a wall of the housing (48) of the intake manifold (26); and a vacuum reservoir passage (44) that passes through the wall of the housing (48) of the intake manifold (26); wherein the wall defines a boundary of an inner section of the intake manifold (26); wherein the manifold vacuum passage (46) is coupled to the manifold port (40) and the vacuum reservoir passage (44) is coupled to the vacuum port (38); and wherein the manifold vacuum passage (46) includes an air inlet which is positioned in the wall of the intake manifold (26) and opens directly to the manifold port (40).

Description

General state of the art / Summary

[0001] Vehicles have used vacuum generated in the intake system to assist the operation of various engine systems, such as brakes, cruise control, exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), and others. For example, vacuum can be used for brake boosting to amplify the driver's brake pedal input, thus reducing braking effort. However, fuel consumption standards, turbochargers, and other factors have led to the downsizing of some vehicle engines, resulting in a reduced capacity to provide vacuum for vehicle auxiliary systems from the intake manifold. To compensate for this drop in vacuum levels, suction devices have been used in engines to charge vacuum reservoirs, providing a vacuum reserve from which vehicle auxiliary systems can draw.

[0002] In previous designs of suction devices, the airflow to and from the suction device was routed via external hoses. The inventors recognized several disadvantages of this type of suction device design and other previous designs. Routing the suction device hoses externally increases the bulkiness of the vacuum system. Therefore, the engine may not necessarily be able to accommodate space constraints in some vehicles, such as those with optimal space utilization. Furthermore, the external hoses can be susceptible to damage during engine manufacturing and maintenance. Damage to the hoses can lead to leaks, which in some cases can reduce the suction device's ability to generate a vacuum or render it inoperable.Furthermore, the externally routed hoses can experience significant flow losses due to their length and contours, thus reducing the efficiency of the system.

[0003] Furthermore, the prior art US 2015 / 0114321A1 describes proportional Venturi vacuum systems for internal combustion engines, in which the vacuum for supplying auxiliary components, in particular brake boosters, is efficiently regulated depending on the throttle position by means of a Venturi valve, a vacuum reservoir, several check valves, and a proportionally controlled valve. The inventors have recognized the aforementioned disadvantages and, in view of these challenges, have developed a vacuum system and a method for operating a vacuum system according to the independent claims. Preferred embodiments are the subject of the dependent claims.

[0004] In one example, the vacuum system includes a vacuum suction device coupled to the housing of an intake manifold. The vacuum suction device comprises an air intake port, a vacuum port, and a manifold port. The vacuum system also includes a manifold vacuum port and a vacuum reservoir port that pass through the intake manifold housing. The manifold vacuum port is coupled to the manifold port, and the vacuum reservoir port is coupled to the vacuum port. Routing the vacuum reservoir port and the manifold vacuum port through the intake manifold housing allows the system to achieve space savings by reducing the profile of the vacuum system.Additionally, internal routing of the vacuum reservoir and manifold vacuum passages increases the durability of the vacuum system and reduces the likelihood of component damage during manufacturing, repair, and maintenance compared to previous engine systems. Flow losses in the vacuum system can also be reduced by shortening the length of the manifold vacuum line compared to systems with externally routed hoses that provide a fluid connection between the intake manifold and a suction device.

[0005] The aforementioned advantages, as well as further advantages and features of the present description, will readily become apparent from the following detailed description, whether considered on its own or in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0006] It is understood that the foregoing summary is provided to introduce, in simplified form, a selection of concepts that are further described in the detailed description. It is not intended to identify important or essential features of the claimed subject matter, the scope of which is defined solely by the claims following the detailed description. Furthermore, the claimed subject matter is not limited to implementations that address the disadvantages mentioned above or in any part of this disclosure. Brief description of the drawings Fig. Figure 1 is a schematic representation of a vehicle, including an engine and a vacuum system; Fig. Figure 2 is a representation of an exemplary engine and a vacuum system; Fig. 3, Fig. 4 and Fig. Figure 5 shows cross-sectional views of the engine and the vacuum system located in Fig. 2 is shown; Fig. Figure 6 shows a detailed cross-sectional view of the vacuum suction device, which is located in Fig. 2 is shown; and Fig. Figure 7 shows a procedure for operating a vacuum system. Fig. Figures 2-6 are to scale. However, other relative dimensions can be used. Detailed description

[0007] A compact, durable, and efficient vacuum system and a method for its operation are described here. In one example, the vacuum system can include a manifold vacuum port that fluidically connects a vacuum suction device to an intake manifold, and a vacuum reservoir port that fluidically connects the vacuum suction device to a vacuum reservoir. The vacuum suction device is configured to charge the vacuum reservoir using the dynamics of the intake air passing through the suction device. The vacuum suction device can be mounted on the housing of an intake manifold, and both the manifold vacuum port and the vacuum reservoir port can be routed internally through the intake manifold housing. Furthermore, the vacuum suction device can include a vacuum port and a manifold port, each port being coupled to its corresponding port.By routing the manifold vacuum passages internally through the intake manifold housing, the system's compactness can be increased. Additional benefits of internal routing include increased durability, resulting from the protected nature of the internally routed passages compared to systems using external hoses. Furthermore, flow losses through the vacuum system can be reduced due to the shorter passage length compared to systems using an external manifold hose.In another example, the vacuum reservoir can be positioned between the intake pipes and the intake manifold to achieve further advantageous space savings. Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of a vehicle, including a vacuum system. Fig. Figure 2 shows an example engine and a vacuum system. Fig. Figures 3-5 show different cross-sectional views of the engine and the vacuum system, which are described in Fig. 2 are shown. Fig. Figure 6 shows a detailed cross-sectional view of the vacuum suction device in the vacuum system, which is located in Fig. 2 is shown. Fig. Figure 7 shows a procedure for operating a vacuum system.

[0008] Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of a vehicle 10, including an engine 12 and a vacuum system 14. Although Fig. Figure 1 provides a schematic representation of various engine and vacuum system components; it is understood that some of the components, such as the vacuum system components, have different spatial positions and greater structural complexity than the components shown in Figure 1. Fig. Figure 1 shows the structural details of the components. Fig. 2-6 discussed in more detail.

[0009] Vehicle 10 includes an intake system 16 that provides intake air for cylinder 18. The intake system 16 includes an intake pipe 20 and a throttle 22. Even if the engine 12 in Fig. While the engine shown in Figure 1 has four cylinders, the engine in other examples may have an alternative number of cylinders. For example, the engine in other examples may include a single cylinder, two cylinders, six cylinders, etc. The intake system 16 also includes a compressor 24 configured to provide boost to the cylinders 18 to increase the efficiency and / or power output of the engine.

[0010] The intake system 16 further includes an intake manifold 26, which is positioned downstream of the throttle 22. The intake manifold 26 supplies intake air to the intake pipes 28. Each of the intake pipes 28 is again connected to one of the intake valves 30, which are connected to one of the corresponding cylinders 18. Thus, the intake pipes 28 are in fluid communication with the intake manifold 26.

[0011] During engine operation, each cylinder typically undergoes a four-stroke cycle, including an intake stroke, a compression stroke, a power stroke, and an exhaust stroke. During the intake stroke, the exhaust valves generally close and the intake valves open. Air is drawn into the cylinder through the associated intake port, and the piston moves toward the bottom of the cylinder to increase the volume. The position where the piston is near the bottom of the cylinder and at the end of its stroke (e.g., when the combustion chamber has reached its maximum volume) is typically referred to by those skilled in the art as bottom dead center (BDC). During the compression stroke, both the intake and exhaust valves are closed. The piston moves toward the cylinder head to compress the air within the combustion chamber.The point at which the piston is closest to the cylinder head at the end of its stroke (e.g., when the combustion chamber has its smallest volume) is generally referred to by those skilled in the art as top dead center (TDC). In a process referred to herein as injection, fuel is introduced into the combustion chamber by direct and / or port fuel injectors. In a process referred to herein as ignition, the injected fuel is ignited by known ignition means, such as a spark plug or compression, resulting in combustion. During the power stroke, the expanding gases push the piston back to bottom dead center (BDC). A crankshaft converts this piston movement into torque of the rotating shaft. During the exhaust stroke, the exhaust valves, in a conventional configuration, open to release the remaining combusted air-fuel mixture to the associated exhaust ports, and the piston returns to TDC.

[0012] The vacuum system 14 includes a vacuum suction device 32 configured to generate a vacuum from the intake air passed through it. The vacuum suction device 32 can be an ejector, an injector, an eductor, a Venturi pump, a jet pump, or another suitable passive device. The vacuum generated by the vacuum suction device 32 can be directed to and stored in a vacuum reservoir 34.

[0013] The vacuum suction device 32 is shown coupled to the intake manifold 26. The vacuum suction device 32 also includes ports for supplying and removing air to the suction device. These ports include an air intake port 36, a vacuum port 38, and a manifold port 40. A check valve 42 may be positioned in the vacuum port 38. The check valve 42 may be configured to allow or prevent airflow through the vacuum port based on the vacuum in the vacuum port and the vacuum reservoir 34. The vacuum system 14 further includes a vacuum reservoir port 44, which is coupled to the vacuum port 38 and the vacuum reservoir 34, and a manifold vacuum port 46, which is coupled to the manifold port 40 and the intake manifold 26.In the vacuum suction device 32, air moves from the air intake port 36 to the manifold port 40 to generate a vacuum in the vacuum port 38. It is understood that the internal profile of the vacuum suction device enables the generation of the vacuum using the internal airflow. Furthermore, it is understood that the vacuum reservoir 34 can be in fluid communication with the vacuum reservoir passage 44 when the check valve 42 is open.

[0014] Both the vacuum reservoir passage 44 and the manifold vacuum passage 46 are routed internally through a housing 48 of the intake manifold 26, thereby increasing the compactness of the vacuum system 14. The specifics regarding the routing of the passages and the details of the attachment between the vacuum suction device 32 and the intake manifold 26 are described here in relation to Fig. 2-6 discussed in more detail.

[0015] The vacuum system 14 also includes an air inlet line 50, which is coupled to the air intake port 36 and the intake line 20, thereby providing an airflow to the vacuum suction device 32. In one example, the air inlet line 50 can be routed externally with respect to the housing 48 of the intake manifold 26.

[0016] The vacuum reservoir 34 can provide a vacuum for an engine system 52 through the vacuum line 54. The engine system 52 can be a braking system with a brake booster 56. However, in other examples, the engine system 52 can be a cruise control system or an exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system. Furthermore, in other examples, the vacuum reservoir 34 can provide a vacuum for multiple engine systems. In such an example, additional valves in the vacuum system can regulate the vacuum supplied to the multiple engine systems.

[0017] Valve 58, which is connected to vacuum line 54, can regulate the fluid connection between vacuum reservoir 34 and engine system 52. For example, when valve 58 is open, engine system 52 can use the vacuum in vacuum reservoir 34, and when valve 58 is closed, engine system 52 can be prevented from using the vacuum in the vacuum reservoir.

[0018] An exhaust system 60 is also included in the vehicle 10. The exhaust system 60 may include exhaust valves 62 coupled to the cylinders 18, exhaust pipes 64, an exhaust manifold 66, and a turbine 68. Additional components that may be included in the exhaust system may include an emission control device (not shown), a silencer (not shown), etc.

[0019] The compressor 24 and the turbine 68 can be connected via a drive shaft (not shown) in a turbocharger 70. However, in other examples, the compressor 24 can be a compressor driven by the rotational output of the engine. Furthermore, the turbocharger can be omitted in other examples with respect to the engine.

[0020] The vehicle 10 can also include wheels 72 that can drive the vehicle along a driving surface 74. In the illustrated example, the driving surface 74 is perpendicular to a vertical axis. However, the driving surface 74 can have alternative orientations in another example.

[0021] Fig. Figure 1 also shows a control unit 100 in vehicle 10. In particular, the control unit 100 is in Fig. Figure 1 shows a conventional microcomputer comprising a microprocessor unit 102, input / output connectors 104, a read-only memory 106, a random access memory 108, a keep-alive memory 110, and a conventional data bus. The controller 100 is configured to receive various signals from sensors connected to the engine 12 and other vehicle systems. These sensors may include an engine coolant temperature sensor (not shown), exhaust gas sensors (not shown), an intake airflow sensor (not shown), and so on. Additionally, the controller 100 is also configured to receive the throttle position (TP) from a throttle position sensor 115, which is connected to a pedal 113 operated by an operator 112.

[0022] Additionally, the controller 100 can be configured to control one or more actuators and / or send commands to components. For example, the controller 100 can trigger an adjustment of the throttle 22, the valve 58, and / or the turbocharger 70. Accordingly, the controller 100 receives signals from the various sensors and uses the various actuators to adjust the engine operation based on the received signals and instructions stored in the controller's memory. It follows that the controller 100 can send and receive signals to the engine system 52.

[0023] Fig. Figure 2 shows an illustration of an exemplary motor 12 and vacuum system 14. The motor 12 includes the intake manifold 26, which has a mounting interface 200 with openings 202. The mounting interface 200 can be coupled to an upstream component, such as the throttle 22, which is located in Fig. 1 is shown. With further reference to Fig. 2 The vacuum suction device 32 is attached to the housing 48 of the intake manifold 26 (e.g., directly attached). Fastening devices 204 (e.g., screws) can facilitate attachment between the vacuum suction device 32 and the housing 48. However, additional or alternative fastening mechanisms were considered.

[0024] In the illustrated example, the vacuum suction device 32 is attached to the intake manifold 26 at a location downstream of the mounting interface 200. Additionally, the vacuum suction device 32 is coupled to an upper surface 206 of the housing 48. When the vacuum suction device 32 and the intake manifold 26 are arranged in this way, internal routing of passages through which air flows to and from the vacuum suction device via the intake manifold housing can be achieved without disturbing other nearby components. Consequently, the compactness of the system can be increased compared to systems that use externally routed hoses, without negatively affecting the operation of the surrounding components. However, other mounting positions for the vacuum suction device 32 have been considered. For example, the vacuum suction device 32 can be coupled to a lateral side or a bottom surface of the housing 48.

[0025] The air intake port 36 of the vacuum suction device 32 is also in Fig. 2 shown. As discussed previously, the air intake duct 50, which is in Fig. As shown in 1, it should be connected to the air intake port 36 and the intake line 20, which are located in Fig. 1 are shown.

[0026] Additionally, a section of a cylinder head 208 of engine 12 is also in Fig. 2 shown. It is understood that the cylinder head 208 can be coupled to a cylinder block (not shown) to form the cylinders 18 shown in Fig. 1 are shown.

[0027] In Fig. Figure 2 provides the coordinate axes (X, Y, and Z) as a reference. In one example, the Z-axis may be parallel to the gravitational axis. However, in other examples, the motor 12 may have different orientations. Furthermore, the X-axis may be a lateral or horizontal axis, and the Y-axis may be a longitudinal axis. Additionally, the viewing plane 210 shows the viewing perspective of the [unclear - possibly referring to the motor]. Fig. The cross-sectional view shown in section 3 and the viewing plane 212 show the viewing perspective of the in Fig. 4 and Fig. 5 shown cross-sectional view.

[0028] Fig. Figure 3 shows a cross-sectional view of the motor 12 and the vacuum system 14. Again, the coordinate axes (Z and Y) are provided for reference. The vacuum intake device 32 and the housing 48 of the intake manifold 26 are shown in Fig. Figure 3 shows that at least part of the housing 48 can define a boundary of an inner section 300 of the intake manifold 26 through which intake air moves. The arrow 302 indicates the general direction of the downstream flow of intake air through the inner section 300 of the intake manifold 26.

[0029] The intake pipes 28, which receive an airflow from the intake manifold 26, are also in Fig. Figure 3 shows that in the illustrated example, the intake pipes 28 extend vertically and are then bent rearward toward their respective cylinder valves. However, in other examples, the intake pipes 28 may have different contours. For example, the intake pipes may extend laterally from the intake manifold. Additionally, each intake pipe 28 may provide intake air for a different intake valve. The in Fig. Engine 12 shown in Figure 2 can include two intake valves per cylinder. However, other intake valve configurations may be used in other cases.

[0030] The vacuum reservoir 34 is also in Fig. Figure 3 shows that, as discussed previously, the vacuum reservoir 34 is charged by the vacuum suction device 32 during certain engine operating conditions. The vacuum reservoir 34 is shown positioned between the intake manifold 26 and the intake pipes 28. Specifically, the vacuum reservoir 34 is positioned above (e.g., vertically above) the intake manifold 26 and adjacent to sections 304 of the intake pipes 28. Therefore, the vacuum reservoir 34 can be positioned between (e.g., laterally between) vertical sections of the curved intake pipes 28. Furthermore, the vacuum reservoir 34 is shown extending longitudinally from a first circumferential tube 307 (e.g., the tube of a first cylinder if the cylinders are numbered consecutively in a longitudinal direction) to a second circumferential tube 309 (e.g., the tube of a second cylinder if the cylinders are numbered consecutively in a longitudinal direction).The vacuum reservoir 34 extends from the first and second circumferential tubes (if the cylinders are numbered consecutively in a longitudinal direction), with each of the first and second circumferential tubes enclosed within the plurality of intake tubes 28. Thus, in one example, part of the boundary of the vacuum reservoir 34 can be defined by a first intake tube wall 308 (e.g., front wall) and a second intake tube wall 310 (e.g., rear wall). Positioning the vacuum reservoir 34 in this internal engine position allows for increased compactness of the vacuum system 14 compared to an externally positioned reservoir. Consequently, the engine can achieve space savings when the vacuum reservoir is positioned between the intake tubes 28 in the manner previously discussed.However, other positions for the vacuum reservoir were considered, such as at a point lengthwise between successive intake pipes, under an air chamber of the intake manifold, attached (e.g. welded) to a section of the intake manifold, etc.

[0031] Additionally, in the illustrated example, the vacuum reservoir 34 and the intake manifold 26 share a common boundary wall 306. This further increases the compactness of the vacuum system 14. Specifically, the boundary wall 306 is shown extending in a lateral and longitudinal direction. However, in other examples, each of the intake manifold 26 and the vacuum reservoir 34 may have a separate boundary wall with different contours.

[0032] Fig. Figure 4 shows a cross-sectional view of the motor 12 and the vacuum system 14. The coordinate axes (X, Y and Z) are again provided for reference. Fig. Figure 4 shows a portion of the housing 48 of the intake manifold 26 that has been cut away to illustrate the contours of the inner section 300. The vacuum suction device 32 is in Fig. Figure 4 shows the air intake port 36, the vacuum port 38, and the manifold port 40. Intake air is supplied to the vacuum reservoir via the air intake port 36 and then expelled through the manifold port 40 and the manifold vacuum passage 46 to the intake manifold 26. Thus, the manifold vacuum passage 46 provides fluid communication between the manifold port 40 and the intake manifold 26, and in particular to the inner section 300 of the intake manifold 26. An airflow through the vacuum suction device 32 from the air intake port 36 to the manifold port 40 creates a vacuum in the vacuum port 38, which allows the vacuum reservoir 34 to be charged during certain operating conditions via an airflow through the vacuum reservoir passage 44 and the vacuum port 38. Fig. Figure 5 shows a more detailed view of the cross-section of the motor 12 and in particular of the in Fig. 4. The vacuum system shown in Figure 14. The coordinate axes (X, Y and Z) are in Fig. Figure 5 is again provided for reference. The vacuum intake device 32 is shown with the air intake port 36, the vacuum port 38, and the manifold port 40. The vacuum reservoir port 44 is shown attached to the vacuum port 38 and extending through the housing 48 of the intake manifold 26. Similarly, the manifold vacuum port 46 is shown attached to the manifold port 40 and extending through the housing 48 of the intake manifold 26. As shown, the manifold vacuum port 46 opens into the intake manifold 26, and the vacuum reservoir port 44 opens into the vacuum reservoir 34. Arrow 502 represents the general direction of airflow through the manifold vacuum port 46 while combustion takes place in the engine 12. Arrow 504 represents the general direction of air flow through the vacuum reservoir passage 44 when the check valve 42 is open.Additionally, arrow 506 illustrates the general direction of airflow through valve section 508 downstream of air intake port 36 while combustion is taking place in engine 12. However, it is understood that the airflow pattern in the vacuum intake device 32 may be more complex.

[0033] In the illustrated example, both the vacuum reservoir passage 44 and the manifold vacuum passage 46 extend vertically through the housing 48 of the intake manifold 26 and run parallel to each other. Additionally, the central axis 507 of the manifold vacuum passage 46 and the central axis 509 of the vacuum reservoir passage 44 are essentially straight in the illustrated example. By routing the vacuum reservoir passage 44 and the manifold vacuum passage 46 in this manner, it is possible for the passages to avoid interfering with other engine components, while saving space and reducing flow losses. However, other contours for the vacuum reservoir passage 44 and the manifold vacuum passage 46 can be used in other examples, achieving equally advantageous space savings.For example, the vacuum reservoir passage 44 and the manifold vacuum passage 46 can extend vertically through the housing in directions that are not parallel to each other, or they can extend vertically through the housing in a first section and then laterally or longitudinally through the housing in another section. In another example, the vacuum reservoir passage 44 and the manifold vacuum passage 46 can have curved sections.

[0034] The vacuum suction device 32 also includes a seal 500 configured to provide a robust seal between the housing 48 and the vacuum suction device 32. In particular, the seal 500 can extend around the interface between the vacuum port 38 and the vacuum reservoir passage 44, as well as the interface between the manifold port 40 and the manifold vacuum passage 46.

[0035] The vacuum suction device 32 further includes the check valve 42. The check valve 42 is configured to open and close, allowing and preventing airflow between the vacuum reservoir 34 and the vacuum port 38. Specifically, the check valve 42 can be configured to open when the vacuum generated at the vacuum port 38 of the vacuum suction device 32 is greater than the vacuum in the vacuum reservoir 34. Likewise, the check valve 42 can also be configured to close when the vacuum generated at the vacuum port 38 of the vacuum suction device 32 is less than the vacuum in the vacuum reservoir 34. This prevents the vacuum reservoir from emptying if the vacuum suction device does not generate enough vacuum to continue charging the reservoir.

[0036] Fig. Figure 6 shows a detailed view of a cross-section of the vacuum suction device 32 in the vacuum system 14, which is located in Fig. Figure 2 is shown. The coordinate axes (Z and X) are again provided for reference. The air intake port 36, the vacuum port 38, and the manifold port 40 of the vacuum suction device 32 are shown in Fig. Figure 6 illustrates the vacuum suction device 32, which includes a tube 600 that narrows in a cross-sectional area and then widens to create a vacuum in the vacuum port 38 as air flows through the suction device from the air intake port 36 to the manifold port 40.

[0037] An angle 602, formed between a central axis 604 of the manifold connection 40 and a central axis 605 of the air intake connection 36, is in Fig. Figure 6 shows that angle 602 can be non-stretched and corresponds to 90 degrees in the illustrated example. Arranging the connections at this angle ensures efficient airflow to the intake manifold 26, which is located in Fig. As shown in Figures 2-5, this is made possible by the vacuum suction device 32. However, other angles were considered.

[0038] The check valve 42 is also in Fig. Figure 6 illustrates that the vacuum suction device 32 also includes a plug 606 in the illustrated example. However, other configurations of a vacuum suction device may be used in other examples, in which a housing of the suction device extends through the area blocked by the plug 606.

[0039] Fig. Figure 7 shows a method 700 for operating a vacuum system. The method 700 can be implemented by the vacuum system and associated components, which were previously described in relation to Fig. 1-6 are discussed, or it can be implemented in other examples of other suitable vacuum systems.

[0040] In step 702, the procedure involves the flow of intake air through the vacuum intake device from an air intake port to a manifold port. The intake air can be routed to the air intake port through an air inlet line extending between an intake line upstream of a throttle and an air intake port. Additionally, air can be routed from the manifold port to a manifold vacuum port coupled to the manifold port and then to an intake manifold. The manifold vacuum port can pass through a housing of the intake manifold, thus enabling a reduction in the profile of the vacuum system. It is understood that step 702 can be performed while the engine is conducting combustion and generating a vacuum in the intake manifold.Therefore, in one example, intake air can continuously flow from the air intake port to the manifold port during the combustion process.

[0041] In 704, the procedure includes determining whether a first operating condition occurs. The first operating condition may include a condition in which the vacuum in a vacuum reservoir charged by the vacuum suction device is less than the vacuum in the intake manifold. This prevents the vacuum reservoir from being emptied when the vacuum in the intake manifold is less than that in the reservoir. However, it is understood that the first operating condition may include additional or alternative operating conditions. For example, the first operating condition may include a condition in which the gain produced by a compressor upstream of the intake manifold is less than a predetermined threshold and / or a condition in which the engine speed is less than a threshold.

[0042] When it is determined that the first operating condition occurs (YES at 704), the procedure proceeds to 706. At 706, the procedure involves increasing a vacuum in a vacuum reservoir by drawing air from the reservoir into the vacuum suction device. As described here, an increase in vacuum indicates an increase toward a theoretically perfect vacuum. Air can move from the vacuum reservoir through a reservoir passage coupled to the vacuum port. Additionally, the reservoir passage can extend through the intake manifold housing, providing further advantageous space savings.

[0043] If it is determined that the first operating condition does not occur (NO for 704), the procedure proceeds to 708. For 708, the procedure includes preventing airflow between the vacuum reservoir and the vacuum port. In one example, a check valve positioned in the vacuum port can be used to prevent airflow between the reservoir and the vacuum port.

[0044] In 710, the procedure includes determining whether a second operating condition occurs. The second operating condition may be a condition in which an engine system requests or requires a vacuum connection. In particular, in an example, the second operating condition may include a condition in which a brake pedal in a braking system with a brake booster is actuated by a driver.

[0045] If it is determined that the second operating condition does not occur (NO for 710), the procedure returns to 710. Conversely, if it is determined that the second operating condition occurs (YES for 710), the procedure advances to 712. At 712, the procedure includes supplying a vacuum to a motor system from the vacuum reservoir. The motor system could, in an example, be a brake system.

[0046] However, in other examples, the engine system could be a cruise control system, an EGR system, etc. Furthermore, in one example, when the second operating condition is determined to occur, the charging of the vacuum reservoir by the vacuum suction device may be stopped. However, in other examples, the vacuum reservoir may be refilled while the engine system draws vacuum from the reservoir. Method 700 enables a compact vacuum system to efficiently charge the vacuum reservoir within selected time periods. Consequently, a vacuum generated in the intake system can be efficiently managed by storing the vacuum and subsequently making it available to selected engine systems.In this way, the vacuum requirement of engine systems can be met even if the intake system may not generate the desired vacuum.

[0047] The subject matter of the present disclosure is further described in the following sections. According to one aspect, a vacuum suction device system is provided. The vacuum suction device system includes a vacuum suction device coupled to the housing of an intake manifold, wherein the vacuum suction device includes an air intake port, a vacuum port, and a manifold port, and a manifold vacuum passage and a vacuum reservoir passage traversing the housing of the intake manifold, the manifold vacuum passage being coupled to the manifold port and the vacuum reservoir passage being coupled to the vacuum port.

[0048] According to another aspect, a vacuum suction device system is provided. The vacuum suction device system includes a vacuum suction device coupled to the housing of an intake manifold, wherein the vacuum suction device includes an air intake port, a vacuum port, and a manifold port; a manifold vacuum passage and a vacuum reservoir passage traversing the housing of the intake manifold, the manifold vacuum passage extending between the manifold port and an inner chamber of the intake manifold, and the vacuum reservoir passage extending between the vacuum port and the vacuum reservoir; and a vacuum reservoir in fluid communication with the vacuum reservoir passage.

[0049] According to another aspect, a method for operating a vacuum suction device system is provided. The method includes the following: during a first operating condition, increasing a vacuum in a vacuum reservoir by drawing air from the vacuum reservoir into a vacuum suction device through a vacuum line extending through a housing of an intake manifold, the vacuum line being coupled to a vacuum port in the vacuum reservoir; and during a second operating condition, providing a vacuum for an engine system from the vacuum reservoir.

[0050] In one of the aspects described herein, or in combinations thereof, the vacuum suction device system may further include a check valve positioned in the vacuum port.

[0051] In one of the aspects described herein, or in combinations thereof, the check valve may open if a vacuum in the vacuum port is greater than a vacuum in a vacuum reservoir, the vacuum reservoir being in fluid communication with the vacuum reservoir passage.

[0052] In one of the aspects described herein, or in combinations of the aspects, the air intake port may be coupled via an external line to an air inlet line upstream of a throttle.

[0053] In one of the aspects described herein, or in combinations thereof, the vacuum suction device system may further include a vacuum reservoir which is in fluid communication with the vacuum reservoir passage.

[0054] In one of the aspects described herein, or in combinations of the aspects, the vacuum reservoir can be positioned between an intake pipe and the intake manifold, and the intake pipe can be in fluid communication with the intake manifold.

[0055] In one of the aspects described herein, or in combinations of the aspects, the vacuum reservoir may be positioned vertically above the intake manifold and adjacent to a section of the intake pipe.

[0056] In one of the aspects described herein, or in combinations of the aspects, the vacuum reservoir passage and the manifold vacuum passage may extend vertically through the intake manifold housing.

[0057] In one of the aspects described herein, or in combinations of the aspects, the intake manifold and the vacuum reservoir may share a common boundary wall.

[0058] In one of the aspects described herein, or in combinations thereof, the vacuum suction device system may further include a compressor upstream of the intake manifold.

[0059] In one of the aspects described herein, or in combinations of the aspects, the vacuum reservoir can be positioned between an intake pipe and the intake manifold, with the intake pipe being in fluid communication with the intake manifold.

[0060] In one of the aspects described herein, or in combinations of the aspects, the vacuum reservoir can be positioned adjacent to an intake pipe and vertically above the intake manifold.

[0061] In one of the aspects described herein, or in combinations of the aspects, the vacuum reservoir can be positioned laterally between different sections of an intake manifold.

[0062] In one of the aspects described herein, or in combinations of the aspects, the vacuum reservoir passage and the manifold vacuum passage may extend vertically through the intake manifold housing.

[0063] In one of the aspects described herein, or in combinations thereof, the method may further include preventing an airflow between the vacuum reservoir and the vacuum port when the first operating condition does not occur.

[0064] In one of the aspects described herein, or in combinations of the aspects, the first operating condition may include a condition in which a vacuum in the vacuum reservoir is less than a vacuum in the intake manifold.

[0065] In one of the aspects described herein, or in combinations of the aspects, the engine system is a braking system.

[0066] In one of the aspects described herein, or in combinations thereof, the method may further include the flow of intake air through the vacuum intake device from an air intake port in the vacuum intake device to a manifold port in the vacuum intake device, the manifold port being coupled to a manifold vacuum passage extending through the housing of the intake manifold.

[0067] Fig.Figures 1-6 show exemplary configurations with a relative positioning of the various components. If such elements are shown as directly touching or directly coupled to each other, then they can be described as directly touching or directly coupled, at least in one example. Similarly, elements shown as abutting or adjacent to each other can be described as abutting or adjacent, at least in one example. As an example, components that are in surface-dividing contact with each other can be described as being in surface-dividing contact. As another example, elements that are positioned separately from each other, with only a space between them and no other components, can be described as such, at least in one example.As a further example, elements shown above / below each other, on opposite sides of each other, or to the left / right of each other can be described as such in relation to one another. Furthermore, as shown in the figures, a topmost element or the highest point of an element can be described as a "top" of the component in at least one example, and a bottommost element or the lowest point of the element can be described as a "bottom" of the component. In the sense used here, top / bottom, upper / lower, and above / below can refer to a vertical axis of the figures and be used to describe the positions of elements of the figures in relation to one another. Thus, elements shown above other elements are, in one example, positioned vertically above the other elements.As a further example, the shapes of the elements shown in the figures can be described as having these shapes (e.g., circular, straight, planar, curved, rounded, beveled, angled, or the like). Furthermore, elements shown in such a way that they intersect each other can be described in at least one example as intersecting elements or as intersecting each other. Finally, an element shown inside or outside another element can be described as such in one example.

[0068] A person skilled in the art will further recognize that, although the invention has been described by way of example with reference to various embodiments, it is not limited to the disclosed embodiments and that alternative embodiments could be constructed without deviating from the scope of the invention as defined in the attached claims.

[0069] It should be noted that the exemplary control routines contained herein can be used with different engine and / or vehicle system configurations. The specific routines described here can represent one or more from any number of processing strategies, such as event-driven, interrupt-driven, multitasking, multithreading, and the like. Accordingly, various illustrated actions, operations, or functions can be performed in the illustrated sequence or in parallel, or in some cases, omitted. Likewise, the processing sequence is not strictly necessary to achieve the features and benefits of the exemplary embodiments described here, but is provided for the sake of clarity and description.Depending on the specific strategy employed, one or more of the depicted actions or functions can be performed repeatedly. Furthermore, the described actions can graphically represent a code that is to be programmed into the computer-readable storage medium in the engine control system.

[0070] It is understood that the configurations and routines disclosed herein are exemplary and that these specific embodiments are not to be interpreted in a limiting sense, as numerous variations are possible. For example, the foregoing technology can be applied to V-6, I-4, I-6, V-12, 4-cylinder boxer, and other engine types. Furthermore, one or more of the various system arrangements can be used in combination with one or more of the described methods. The subject matter of this disclosure includes all novel and non-obvious combinations and sub-combinations of the various systems and configurations and other features, functions, and / or properties disclosed herein.

Claims

[1] Vacuum system (14), comprising: a vacuum suction device (32) that is directly coupled to a housing (48) of an intake manifold (26), wherein the vacuum suction device (32) has an air intake port (36), a vacuum port (38), a manifold port (40), and a housing, the housing comprising a surface that surrounds the manifold port (40) and is in surface-sharing contact with a section of the housing (48) of the intake manifold (26) adjacent to a manifold vacuum passage (46) that passes through a wall of the housing (48) of the intake manifold (26); and a vacuum reservoir passage (44) that passes through the wall of the housing (48) of the intake manifold (26); wherein the wall defines a boundary of an inner section of the intake manifold (26); wherein the manifold vacuum passage (46) is coupled to the manifold port (40) and the vacuum reservoir passage (44) is coupled to the vacuum port (38); and wherein the manifold vacuum passage (46) includes an air inlet which is positioned in the wall of the intake manifold (26) and opens directly to the manifold port (40). [2] Vacuum system (14) according to claim 1, comprising a check valve (42) positioned in the vacuum port (38). [3] Vacuum system (14) according to claim 2, wherein the check valve (42) opens when a vacuum in the vacuum port (38) is greater than a vacuum in a vacuum reservoir (34), wherein the vacuum reservoir (34) is in fluid communication with the vacuum reservoir passage (44). [4] Vacuum system (14) according to claim 1, wherein the air intake port (36) is coupled to an intake line (20) upstream of a throttle (22) via an external air inlet line (50). [5] Vacuum system (14) according to claim 1, comprising a vacuum vessel (34) in fluid communication with the vacuum vessel passage (44). [6] Vacuum system (14) according to claim 5, wherein the vacuum reservoir (34) is positioned between an intake pipe (28) and the intake manifold (26), and wherein the intake pipe (28) is in fluid communication with the intake manifold (26). [7] Vacuum system (14) according to claim 6, wherein the vacuum reservoir (34) is positioned vertically above the intake manifold (26) and adjacent to a section of the intake pipe (28). [8] Vacuum system (14) according to claim 1, wherein the vacuum reservoir passage (44) and the manifold vacuum passage (46) extend vertically through the housing (48) of the intake manifold (26). [9] Vacuum system (14) according to claim 1, wherein the intake manifold (26) and the vacuum reservoir (34) share a common boundary wall. [10] Vacuum system (14) according to claim 1, comprising a compressor (24) upstream of the intake manifold (26). [11] Method for operating a vacuum system (14), comprising: During a first operating condition, increasing a vacuum in a vacuum reservoir (34) by drawing air from the vacuum reservoir (34) into a vacuum suction device (32) through a vacuum line (54) extending through a housing (48) of an intake manifold (26), wherein the vacuum line (54) is coupled to a vacuum port (38) in the vacuum reservoir (34), wherein the vacuum suction device (32) includes a housing, the housing comprising a surface that surrounds the manifold port (40) and is in surface-sharing contact with a section of the housing (48) of the intake manifold (26) adjacent to a manifold vacuum passage (46) that traverses a wall of the housing (48) of the intake manifold (26); and during a second operating condition, providing a vacuum to an engine system (52) from the vacuum reservoir (34); wherein the manifold vacuum passage (46) includes an air inlet which is positioned in the wall of the intake manifold (26) and opens directly to the manifold connection (40). [12] Method according to claim 11, comprising preventing an airflow between the vacuum reservoir (34) and the vacuum port (38) when the first operating condition does not occur. [13] Method according to claim 12, wherein the first operating condition includes a condition in which the vacuum in the vacuum reservoir (34) is less than a vacuum in the intake manifold (26). [14] Method according to claim 11, wherein the motor system (52) is a braking system (52). [15] Method according to claim 14, comprising the flow of intake air through the vacuum suction device (32) from an air intake port (36) in the vacuum suction device (32) to a manifold port (40) in the vacuum suction device (32), wherein the manifold port (40) is coupled to a manifold vacuum passage (46) extending through the housing (48) of the intake manifold (26).

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