Development of an Electrically Operated Vacuum Pump

Many diesel-powered vehicles use a vacuum pump to facilitate brake assistance. The vacuum pump is usually coupled to alternator shaft. As a result, the vacuum pump always runs at a speed proportional to engine speed regardless of the requirement for vacuum for brake assist.

In this paper, a system with electrically driven vacuum pump together with electronic control is discussed. The system offers significant benefits compared to the present system without any reduction of brake performance or safety. The motor runs only when required, resulting in fuel saving and emission reduction. Apart from this, the power required to drive vacuum pump is relieved during acceleration leading to better acceleration performance of vehicle.