Dual energy ignition system and method using energy transfer during the ON period

Abstract

An ignition system for the automotive industry is disclosed. The system includes a high voltage source to initiate the spark and a low voltage source to add extra energy to the spark, where the initiation and extra energy to the spark occur while the primary winding of the transformer is conducting. The high energy ignition system is implemented using a transformer with a secondary high voltage winding. The generation and extra energy to the spark occur using both capacitive and inductive transfer systems using the transformer. Various methods of generating the high voltage are also disclosed. Single switch, two switch and multiple switch methods are disclosed. Current controlled spark generation and multiple pulse methods are also disclosed. The system uses a small transformer while the primary is on to more efficiently deliver energy with fast current rise.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This international application claims the priority of Patent Application No. 202141004868, titled "Dual Energy Ignition System and Method Thereof by Energy Transmission during On Period", filed in India on February 4, 2021.

[0002] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to the industrial and automotive industries in which high-energy sparks are generated using two energy sources within a spark plug, and more particularly, to an ignition system used in an automobile to supply additional energy to the spark plug so as to obtain better combustion.

Background Art

[0003] In automobiles, electric ignition systems are used to ignite the fuel-air mixture. This ignites the fuel-air mixture, generating power in the cylinder. For good, complete combustion, a high-quality spark is essential. The magnitude and duration of the spark current are important. A large spark current and a long spark duration result in good combustion. To generate a spark between the spark gaps, a high voltage must be supplied to the spark gaps. Conventional systems use a high-voltage transformer to obtain a high voltage from a low-voltage DC power source such as a battery. To generate the high voltage, a switch is used to inductively charge the low-voltage primary side of the transformer, and then the switch is opened to generate a high voltage on the secondary side. Transformers with a high turns ratio generate a high-voltage spark, but only a very low current flows through the spark plug. To increase the spark current, a dual-source ignition system has been proposed. In this case, two transformers are used together with two switching energy sources. In this case, a high-voltage, low-current spark is initiated using the first circuit and the first transformer. Next, a second circuit and a second transformer are used to supply a low voltage and high current to the already started spark. However, this method requires two transformers and two electronic circuits. The two circuits increase cost and extra power consumption. Also, this method requires an extra diode to couple the two currents at the spark plug. [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0004] Some existing ignition systems integrate high-voltage and low-voltage high-current circuits by using a single transformer and high-voltage DC source. However, this method adds a low-voltage source in series with the high-voltage transformer on the secondary side by using a control element in series with the spark plug. Similarly, other existing ignition systems add another DC booster source in series with the high-voltage source on the secondary side of the transformer to increase spark power, which results in additional cost and extra power consumption.

[0005] Therefore, an improved ignition system is needed to address the aforementioned (one or more) problems. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an ignition system having a dual energy source is provided. The system provides a high-voltage spark initiation source and a low-voltage additional current source in a cost-effective manner. New application during the transformer's ON time By using this method, the ignition system used in an internal combustion engine is configured to generate a large current during the on-time.

[0007] Another aspect of this disclosure This is a high-voltage and low-voltage energy source that supplies energy to a spark plug using a single transformer and a single switching element having a single primary side. The discharge circuit is arranged so that the energy source discharges into a single transformer in a regular manner. The energy from the high-energy source is supplied from the transformer itself via additional windings. Energy transfer occurs during both the on and off periods of the switch.

[0008] Further aspects of this disclosure This is a high-voltage energy source and a low-voltage energy source that supply energy to a spark plug using a single transformer with two primary sides and a single switching element. The transformer is wound such that one energy source does not interfere with the other energy source. One winding of the transformer can be used to initiate a spark by discharging a capacitor or by applying a voltage, and the other winding of the transformer can be used to add additional energy to the spark by discharging a capacitor or by applying a voltage.

[0009] Further aspects of this disclosure teeth, The first switch is used to discharge the first capacitor to the primary side in order to start a spark, and the second switch is used to discharge the second capacitor to the same primary side in order to add additional energy to the spark. These are high-voltage and low-voltage energy sources that supply energy to the spark plug using a single transformer and two switching elements. .

[0010] Further aspects of this disclosure teeth,A first switch causes the first capacitor to discharge to the first primary side for spark ignition, and a second switch causes the second capacitor to discharge to the second primary side to add additional energy to the spark. These are high-voltage and low-voltage energy sources that supply energy to a spark plug using a single transformer and two switching elements.

[0011] Further aspects of this disclosure teeth, The voltage applied to one primary side prevents it from generating a magnetic field on another primary side, and also avoids interaction between them. It is a single transformer that is wound around a coil. The winding is divided into two equal parts and wound around the two outer legs of the EI core of the transformer. This prevents the magnetic flux from the winding from flowing into the central winding of the EI core transformer.

[0012] Further aspects of this disclosure teeth, The first switching element allows current to flow through the primary winding of a non-mutually wound transformer to initiate a spark, and the second switching element allows additional current to flow through the second primary winding to add additional energy to the spark. These are high-voltage and low-voltage energy sources that supply energy to the spark plug using a single transformer and two switching elements. .

[0013] Further aspects of this disclosure teeth, A first switching element causes a first capacitor to discharge into the non-mutually wound primary winding of a transformer in order to initiate a spark, and a second switching element causes a second capacitor to discharge in order to add additional energy to the spark. These are high-voltage and low-voltage energy sources that supply energy to the spark plug using a single transformer and two switching elements. .

[0014] Further aspects of this disclosure teeth, When the first switch is turned on, a spark is ignited by the voltage applied to the first primary side, and when the second switch is turned on, additional energy is supplied to the spark by the voltage applied to the second primary side. It is a voltage energy source and low-voltage energy source that supplies energy to the spark plug using a single transformer and two switching elements. The high-voltage source is supplied from an energy recovery winding used in the same transformer. Energy recovery is also performed via a diode connected to the primary side.

[0015] Further aspects of this disclosure teeth,When the ignition pulse is applied, a high voltage is applied to the primary side for a short time to initiate the spark, and then a low voltage is applied for the time necessary to add additional energy to the spark using two switching elements. It is a voltage energy source and low-voltage energy source that uses a single transformer to supply energy to the spark plug. Energy recovery windings are also used to add energy to the high-voltage source. Similarly, energy recovery diodes are used to supply the recovered energy to the high-voltage source. It is also possible to limit the current from the high-voltage source. The energy of the high-voltage source can also be obtained entirely from recovered energy.

[0016] Further aspects of this disclosure teeth, When an ignition pulse is applied, a series of pulses is generated using four switches in a bridge configuration to switch the switching elements so that alternating positive and negative short pulses are applied for the required duration across the entire primary side. It is a voltage energy source and low-voltage energy source that uses a single transformer to supply energy to the spark plug. To initiate the spark, a high voltage is applied to the primary side of the transformer for a very short time using the fifth switch for each initial short pulse. The short-duration pulse adds additional energy to the spark. An energy recovery diode can also supply energy to the high-voltage source.

[0017] Further aspects of this disclosure teeth, When an ignition pulse is applied, a series of pulses are generated to switch the switching element, and two switches in a push-pull configuration are used to apply alternating positive and negative short pulses for the required duration on the primary side. It is a voltage energy source and low-voltage energy source that uses a single transformer to supply energy to the spark plug. To initiate the spark, a third switch is used to apply a first high voltage to the primary side of the transformer for a very short time with each initial short pulse, adding additional energy to the spark. An energy recovery diode can also supply energy to the high voltage source.

[0018] Further aspects of this disclosure teeth, When an ignition pulse is applied, the PWM IC generates a series of pulses used to switch a switching element to generate positive and negative sparks at the spark plug. It is a voltage energy source and low-voltage energy source that uses a single transformer to supply energy to the spark plug.Negative feedback to the PWM IC maintains the current at the required level.

[0019] Yet another aspect of the present disclosure teeth, To generate the required current waveform for the spark plug, the applied voltage is continuously varied by a feedback mechanism by detecting the primary current. It is a voltage energy source and low-voltage energy source that uses a single transformer to supply energy to the spark plug. .

[0020] In yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a method of assembling an ignition system is provided. The method comprises providing a high voltage energy source and a low voltage energy source. The method To generate a substantial amount of current, energy is supplied to the spark plug from high-voltage and low-voltage energy sources via a switching element. also comprises providing a transformer having a primary winding. The method is to activate the high voltage energy source and the low voltage energy source in a regular manner by a discharge circuit to discharge the transformer, the discharge circuit being disposed at a predetermined position and the high voltage energy source being supplied from the transformer via a secondary winding. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] The present disclosure will be described more specifically in detail using the accompanying drawings.

[0022] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a high energy inductive ignition system using a single primary side and two switching elements according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a high energy inductive ignition system having two primary windings and two switching elements according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of a high energy capacitive ignition system using a single primary side and two switching elements according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. <000011同じページの中で、同じタグが複数ある場合は、それらをまとめて翻訳しても良いですか?0> / / 原文の [Figure 4] は何も内容がないので、そのまま翻訳しました。 FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of a high energy capacitive ignition system having two primary windings and two switching elements according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5]Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the details of a transformer winding in a high-energy ignition system having two primary windings, the spark-starting winding of which is wound non-reciprocally with another primary winding, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of a high-energy induction ignition system having two switching elements and a non-mutually wound double primary transformer according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of a high-energy capacity ignition system having two switching elements and a non-mutually wound dual primary transformer according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of a high-energy induction ignition system having one switching element and one source according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram of a high-energy induction ignition system having one switching element and one source that initially supplies a high voltage by receiving energy from a high-voltage source through a resistor, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of a high-energy ignition system having two switching elements and two energy sources that supply a series of pulses to a spark via a push-pull transformer, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram of a high-energy ignition system having four switching elements and two energy sources that supply a series of pulses to a spark via a bridge configuration according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a schematic diagram of a dual-source high-energy ignition system having a current-controlled PWM integrated circuit that generates a series of pulses to a spark plug, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a schematic diagram of a dual-source high-energy ignition system having a current-controlled feedback system for generating a constant current via an ignition spark according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14]Figure 14 is a schematic diagram of a dual-source high-energy ignition system having a current feedback system for maintaining a constant current via a spark by changing the applied voltage according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 15] Figure 15 is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of the ignition system of Figure 1, showing a substantially typical waveform obtained in Mode-1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 16] Figure 16 is a flowchart illustrating the steps involved in assembling an ignition system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand that elements in the drawings are illustrated for simplification and may not necessarily be drawn to scale. In addition, with respect to the structure of the apparatus, one or more components of the apparatus may be represented in the drawings by conventional symbols, and the drawings may show only certain details appropriate for understanding embodiments of the present disclosure, so as not to obscure the drawings, while ensuring that the details are readily apparent to those skilled in the art who have an interest in the description herein. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0024] To facilitate understanding of the principles of this disclosure, illustrated embodiments will be used for reference and description. Nevertheless, it will be understood that no limitation of the scope of this disclosure is intended thereto. Such modifications and further variations in the illustrated systems, as well as further applications of the principles of this disclosure that would ordinarily arise for those skilled in the art, will be construed as being within the scope of this disclosure.

[0025] The phrases “equipped with,” “equipped with,” or other variations thereof are intended to be non-exclusive, and a process or method consisting of a list of steps may not be limited to those steps alone, but may also be limited to other steps not explicitly listed or specific to such process or method. Similarly, the presence of one or more devices, subsystems, elements, structures, or components before “...equipped with” does not, unless further constraints, preclude the existence of other devices, subsystems, elements, structures, components, additional devices, additional subsystems, additional elements, additional structures, or additional components. Where “in one embodiment,” “in another embodiment,” and similar expressions appear throughout this specification, they may, but not necessarily, refer to the same embodiment.

[0026] Unless otherwise specified, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as those generally understood by those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains. The systems, methods and examples provided herein are illustrative and not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure.

[0027] In the following specification and claims, many terms are referenced, and these terms are defined as follows: The singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural references unless otherwise clearly indicated in the context.

[0028] Embodiments of this disclosure relate to ignition systems and methods thereof. An ignition system having a dual energy source has a high-voltage energy source and a low-voltage energy source. The system is It is configured to generate a considerable amount of current by being connected to a high-voltage energy source and a low-voltage energy source, and to supply energy from the high-voltage energy source and the low-voltage energy source to the spark plug via a switching element. The system has a transformer equipped with a primary winding. The system has a discharge circuit positioned in place so that a high-voltage energy source and a low-voltage energy source can discharge into the transformer in a regular manner, and the high-voltage energy source is supplied from the transformer via a secondary winding.

[0029] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a high-energy induction ignition system (10) using a single primary side and two switching elements according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The positive input of a DC power supply (180) is connected to one end of a switch (160). The other end of the switch (160) is connected to the anode of a diode (108), and the cathode of the diode (108) is connected to one end of a capacitor (103). The other end of the capacitor (103) is grounded. The negative terminal of the source (180) is grounded. The cathode of the diode (108) is also connected to the cathode of a diode (105). The cathode of the diode (108) is also connected to one end of a switch (102). The other end of the switch (102) is connected to one end of a resistor (156), and the other end of the switch (170) is connected to the anode of a diode (106). The other end of resistor (156) is also connected to the anode of diode (106). The gate of switch (102) is connected to the collector of transistor (153). The emitter of transistor (153) is connected to the cathode of Zener diode (154). The anode of Zener diode (154) is connected to the anode of diode (106). The base of transistor (153) is connected to one end of resistor (155). The other end of resistor (155) is connected to the source terminal of switch (102). The other end of resistor (152) is connected to one end of pulse source (159). The collector of transistor (153) is connected to one end of resistor (152). The other end of pulse source (159) is connected to the anode of diode (106). The cathode of diode (106) is connected to one end of the primary winding (110) of transformer (150). The other end of the primary winding (110) is connected to one end of switch (101). The other end of switch (101) is grounded. The ungrounded end of switch (101) is also connected to the anode of diode (105). The cathode of diode (106) is also connected to the cathode of diode (107). The anode of diode (107) is connected to one end of capacitor (104). The other end of capacitor (104) is grounded. The anode of diode (107) is also connected to the positive terminal of DC input source (109). The negative terminal of source (109) is grounded.One end of the secondary side (109) of the transformer (150) is connected to the spark plug (112). The other end of the spark plug (112) is grounded. The other end of the secondary side (109) is grounded.

[0030] Furthermore, by using a single transformer and two switches, high energy is transmitted to the spark plug (112). In this case, when the switch (160) is turned on, the capacitor (103) receives energy from the source (180). Receive. Furthermore, when the switch turns off, Capacitor (103) does not receive energy from source (110). The circuit can operate whether switch (160) is on or off. (To be explained later) Both Mode-1 and Mode-2 can operate whether switch (160) is on or off. The primary coil (110) has few turns, and the secondary coil (109) has many turns. First, switches (101, 170, 102) are turned on together. This causes current to flow from the high-voltage source (103) to the primary side (110) through switches (102, 101). The current flowing through the primary side (110) induces a high voltage on the secondary side (109), starting the spark plug (112). After a very short time, switch (102) is turned off. Then, the low-voltage source (104) supplies voltage to the primary side (110) through switch (101) via diode (107). This voltage induces a low voltage on the secondary side (109), causing an additional current to flow through the spark plug (112). After a predetermined time has elapsed, switch (101) turns off. Then, the energy stored on the primary side (110) is returned to capacitor (103) via diode (105). Capacitor (103) is charged from source (110) via diode (108). Capacitor (104) is charged from low voltage source (109). In this case, when switches (102) and (101) are turned on and switch (170) is turned off, the circuit is It operates in mode-1. In mode-1, the current control operation performed in conjunction by transistor 153, resistor 156, and Zener diode (154) is not performed. Furthermore, in mode-2, switch (170) remains open. In this mode-2,The current passing through switch (102) flows through resistor (156) and then through switch (101). This current generates a voltage across resistor (156). When this voltage across resistor (156) exceeds the voltage obtained by adding the breakdown voltage of Zener diode (154) to the base-emitter voltage of transistor (153), transistor (153) conducts, and the current flowing through the collector of transistor (153) causes the gate voltage of switch (102) to drop. This drop in the gate voltage of switch (102) reduces the voltage applied to the primary side (110) of the transformer. As a result, the voltage on the secondary side (109) of the transformer drops, and the current flowing through the spark plug (112) decreases. In this way, the maximum current flowing through the spark plug (112) caused by the spark initiation current via switch (102) is limited. When the switch (170) is closed, the current flowing through the spark plug (112) is limited only by the resistance present in the spark plug (112), etc., as well as the resistance of the secondary side (109) of the transformer and the leakage inductance. When the switch (160) is open, the capacitor (103) receives stored energy from the winding (110) of the transformer (150) via the diode 105. However, in the first cycle, the capacitor (103) has no voltage. Therefore, in the first cycle, only the low-voltage source (104) charges the primary side (110) of the transformer without causing ignition at the spark plug (112). However, when the switch is turned off at the end of the first cycle, the energy stored on the primary side (110) charges the capacitor (103). From the next cycle onward, normal operation occurs as described above.

[0031] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a high-energy induction ignition system having two primary windings and two switching elements according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The positive terminal of source (216) is connected to the anode of diode (213). The negative terminal of source (216) is grounded. The cathode of diode (213) is connected to one end of capacitor (212). The other end of capacitor (212) is grounded. The cathode of diode (213) is also connected to the anode of diode (210). The cathode of diode (210) is connected to one end of winding (205) of transformer (200). The other end of winding (205) is connected to one end of switch (201). The other end of switch (201) is grounded. The positive terminal of source (215) is connected to one end of capacitor (211). The other end of capacitor (211) is grounded. The positive terminal of source (215) is also connected to the anode of diode (209). The cathode of diode (209) is connected to one end of winding (206) of transformer (200). The other end of winding (206) is connected to one end of switch (202). The other end of switch (202) is grounded. One end of winding (207) is grounded, and the other end of winding (207) is connected to the anode of diode (208). The cathode of diode (208) is connected to the cathode of diode 213. One end of winding (203) of transformer (200) is grounded, and the other end of winding (203) is connected to one end of spark plug (204). The other end of spark plug (204) is grounded.

[0032] Furthermore, the switching elements (201, 202) turn on together. This causes current to flow from the capacitor (212) through the diode (210) to the winding (205). This capacitor (212) is charged by the voltage source (216). The current flowing through the winding (205) induces a high voltage in the secondary winding (203), starting the spark plug (204). During this time, the reverse bias effect of the diode (209) prevents current from flowing through the winding (206). This is because the total number of turns of (206) and (207) is adjusted accordingly. After a very short time, the switch (201) turns off. Immediately afterward, the reverse bias voltage of the diode (209) disappears. Then, current flows through the diode (209) to the winding (206). The source (215) charges the capacitor (211). The current flowing through winding (206) adds an additional current to the spark at the spark plug (204) via winding (203). After a predetermined time, the switch (202) is also turned off. The energy stored on the primary side (206) is then returned to the source (212) via winding (207) and diode (208).

[0033] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of a high-energy capacitive ignition system having a single primary side and two switching elements according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The positive terminal of source (309) is connected to the anode of diode (308). The negative terminal of source (309) is grounded. The cathode of diode (308) is connected to one end of switch (307). The other end of switch (307) is grounded. The cathode of diode (308) is also connected to one end of capacitor (305). The other end of capacitor (305) is connected to one end of winding (303) of transformer (300). The other end of winding (303) is grounded. The positive terminal of source (310) is connected to the anode of diode (311). The negative terminal of source (310) is grounded. The cathode of diode (311) is connected to one end of capacitor (304). The other end of the capacitor (304) is connected to the ungrounded terminal of the winding (303) of the transformer (300). The cathode of the diode (311) is also connected to one end of the switch (306), and the other end of the switch (306) is grounded. One end of the winding (301) of the transformer (300) is connected to earth. The other end of the winding (301) is connected to one end of the spark plug (302). The other end of the spark plug (302) is grounded.

[0034] The primary coil (303) has few turns, and the secondary coil (301) has many turns. First, capacitors (304) and (305) are charged via diodes (311) and (308) using voltage sources (310) and (309), respectively. Voltage sources (309) and (310) are short-circuit protected and supply a negligible current in the event of a short circuit. Next, switches (306) and (307) are turned on together. The voltage across capacitor (304) is higher than the voltage across capacitor (305). Therefore, switch (306) conducts, and switch (307) becomes reverse-biased. As a result, a large voltage is applied to winding (303), and a high voltage is induced on the secondary side (301) of transformer (300). This generates a spark at the spark plug (302). However, when the voltage across capacitor (304) drops below the voltage level of capacitor (305), the switch (307) conducts, and a voltage is applied between the primary sides (303) of the transformer (300). This induces a voltage in the secondary winding (301), adding additional energy to the spark of the spark plug (302).

[0035] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of a high-energy capacitive ignition system having two primary windings and two switching elements according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The positive terminal of the source (415) is connected to the anode of the diode (414). The cathode of the diode (414) is connected to one end of the switch (412). The other end of the switch (412) is grounded. The cathode of the diode (414) is connected to one end of the capacitor (410). The other end of the capacitor (410) is connected to the anode of the diode (408) and the cathode of the diode (407). The other end of the diode (408) is grounded. The anode of the diode (407) is connected to one end of the winding (406) of the transformer (400). The other end of the winding (406) is grounded. The positive terminal of the DC power supply (416) is connected to the anode of the diode (413), and the cathode of the diode (413) is connected to one end of the switch (411). The other end of the switch (411) is grounded. The cathode of the diode (413) is also connected to one end of the capacitor (409), and the other end of the capacitor (409) is connected to the anode of the diode (405) and the cathode of the diode (404). The cathode of the diode (405) is grounded. The anode of the diode (404) is connected to one end of the winding (403). The other end of the winding (403) of the transformer (400) is grounded. One end of the winding (401) of the transformer (400) is grounded. The other end of the winding (401) is connected to one end of the spark plug (402). The other end of the spark plug (402) is grounded.

[0036] Furthermore, high energy is transmitted to the spark plug (402) by using a single transformer (400) and two switches. The primary coil (403) has fewer turns, and the secondary coil (401) has more turns. First, the capacitors (409, 410) are charged via diodes (413) and (405) using source (416). Similarly, the capacitor (410) is charged via diodes (408) and (414) using source (415). The two switches (411) and (412) are turned on together. The first primary side (403) has fewer turns than the second primary side (406) of the transformer (400). Therefore, first, only switch (411) conducts, applying voltage to the primary side (403). This is because diode (407) is reverse-biased and diode (404) is forward-biased. This induces a high voltage on the secondary side (401) of the transformer (400), generating a spark at the spark plug (402). After a while, when the voltage across the capacitor (409) drops, the diode (407) is biased in the forward direction, and the switch (412) conducts. This applies a voltage to the winding (406) of the transformer (400). This voltage across (406) induces a low voltage on the secondary side (401), adding current to the spark at the spark plug (402).

[0037] Figure 5 schematically shows the details of the transformer windings used in a new configuration as detailed in Figures 6 and 7 according to embodiments of the present disclosure. In this case, coil (501) is wound around the center leg of the transformer core (504). Winding (500) is wound around one outer leg of the core. Winding (502) is wound around the other outer leg. A high-voltage winding (503) is also wound around the same leg. Windings (500 and 502) are equally connected in series so that the magnetic flux they generate does not flow through the center leg (504) of the transformer.

[0038] In Figure 6, the positive terminal of the DC power supply (611) is connected to the anode of the diode (610). The negative terminal of the source (611) is grounded. The cathode of the diode (610) is connected to one end of the capacitor (605). The other end of the capacitor (605) is grounded. The cathode of the diode (610) is also connected to one end of the winding (501) of the transformer (504). The other end of the winding (501) is connected to one end of the switch (603). The other end of the switch (603) is grounded. The positive terminal of the DC power supply (612) is connected to the anode of the diode (608). The negative terminal of the DC power supply (612) is grounded. The cathode of the diode (608) is connected to one end of the capacitor (607). The other end of the capacitor (607) is grounded. The cathode of the diode (608) is connected to one end of the winding (500). The other end of the winding (500) is connected to one end of the winding (502). The other end of the winding (502) is connected to one end of the switch (604). The other end of the switch (604) is grounded. One end of the winding (503) of the transformer (504) is grounded. The other end of the winding (503) is connected to one end of the spark plug (602). The other end of the spark plug (602) is grounded.

[0039] Figure 6 shows yet another configuration of the high-energy ignition system. Here, the transformer (504) is operably connected to the circuit in Figure 6. Switch (604) is turned on. This causes current from the capacitor (607) to flow through the series windings (500 and 502) of the transformer (504). This capacitor (607) is charged from the source (612) via the diode (608). The current flowing through the windings (500 and 502) induces a high voltage in the secondary winding (503). However, no voltage is generated in the winding (501). This high voltage generates a spark at the spark plug (602). After a short time, switch (603) is turned on and switch (604) is turned off. This causes current to flow through the winding (501) and interrupts the current in the windings (500 and 502). The current in the winding (501) is supplied by the capacitor (605). The capacitor (605) is charged from the source (611) via the diode (610). The current flowing through the winding (501) induces a voltage on the secondary side (503), which adds current to the spark plug (602). The sources (611 and 612) are short-circuit protected and provide negligible current in the event of a short circuit.

[0040] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of a high-energy capacity ignition system having two switching elements and a non-mutual-winding double primary transformer according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The positive terminal of the DC source (710) is connected to the anode of the diode (711). The negative terminal of the source (710) is grounded. The cathode of the diode (711) is connected to one end of the switch (708). The other end of the switch (708) is grounded. The cathode of the diode (711) is also connected to one end of the capacitor (705). The other end of the capacitor (705) is connected to the anode of the diode (713). The cathode of the diode (713) is grounded. The anode of the diode (713) is also connected to one end of the winding (501) of the transformer (504). The other end of the winding (501) is grounded. The positive terminal of the power supply (709) is connected to the anode of the diode (712). The negative terminal of the DC power supply is grounded. The cathode of diode (712) is connected to one end of switch (707). The other end of switch (707) is grounded. The cathode of diode (712) is also connected to one end of capacitor (706). The other end of capacitor (706) is connected to the anode of diode (714). The cathode of diode (714) is grounded. The anode of diode (714) is connected to one end of winding (500) of transformer (504). The other end of winding (500) is connected to one end of winding (502), and the other end of winding (502) is grounded. One end of winding (503) of transformer (504) is grounded. The other end of winding (503) is connected to one end of spark plug (702). The other end of the spark plug (702) is grounded.

[0041] Figure 7 shows yet another configuration of the high-energy ignition system. Here, the transformer (504) is operably connected to the circuit in Figure 7. Capacitor (706) is charged via diodes (712) and (714) using source (709). Simultaneously, capacitor (705) is charged via diodes (713 and 711) using source (710). In this case, switch (707) is turned on. This causes capacitor (706) to discharge via the series-connected windings (500 and 502). This results in no voltage being generated in winding (501). However, this induces a high voltage in the secondary winding (503). This voltage in winding (503) starts the spark plug (702). After a predetermined time, switch (708) is turned on. This causes capacitor (705) to discharge via winding (501). The current flowing through this winding (501) induces a voltage on the secondary side (503). This intern adds current to the spark already present in the spark plug (702). Once the capacitors (706 and 705) have completely discharged, the switches (707 and 708) can be turned off.

[0042] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of a high-energy induction ignition system having one switching element and one source according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The positive terminal of the DC source (809) is connected to the anode of the diode (808). The negative terminal of the source (809) is grounded. The cathode of the diode (808) is connected to one end of the capacitor (807). The other end of the capacitor (807) is grounded. The cathode of the diode (808) is also connected to one end of the winding (803) of the transformer (800). The other end of the winding (803) is connected to one end of the control element (816). The other end of the control element (816) is grounded. The cathode of the diode (808) is also connected to the cathode of the diode (806). The anode of the diode (806) is connected to one end of the winding (805) of the transformer (800). The other end of the winding (805) is grounded. One end of the winding (801) of the transformer (800) is grounded. The other end of the winding (801) is connected to one end of the spark plug (802). The other end of the spark plug (802) is grounded. One end of the winding (810) of the transformer (800) is connected to one end of the switch (811), and the other end of the winding (810) is grounded. The other end of the switch (811) is connected to one end of the capacitor (812). The other end of the capacitor (812) is connected to one end of the resistor (814) and also to one end of the pulse source (826). The other end of the pulse source (826) is grounded. The other end of the resistor (814) is connected to the control terminal of the control element (816). One end of resistor (813) is connected to one end of switch (819), and the other end of switch (819) is connected to the bias voltage +V. The other end of resistor (813) is connected to the control terminal of control element (816). One end of resistor (815) is connected to the control terminal of control element (816). The other end of resistor (815) is grounded. One end of switch (804) is connected to the control terminal of control element (816). The other end of switch (804) is grounded.

[0043] Figure 8 shows yet another configuration of the high-energy ignition system, which can operate in two modes. In mode-1, the switches (811, 819, 804) are open. Here, the control element (816) is turned on by applying a pulse from the pulse source (826). This causes current from the capacitor (807) to flow through the winding (803) of the transformer (800). The capacitor (807) was charged to a high voltage via the diode (806) by the winding (805) when (816) was turned off in the previous cycle. The current flowing through the winding (803) induces a high voltage on the secondary side (801) of the transformer (800). This high voltage starts the spark plug (802). The initial voltage of the capacitor (807) is higher than the supply voltage (809). Therefore, the diode (808) is reverse-biased, and no current flows through the diode (808). When the control element (816) is turned on, the voltage across the capacitor (807) drops slowly. Then, the diode (808) conducts and supplies energy to the winding (803). However, because this voltage is low, only a low induced voltage is generated in the winding (801). However, this adds an additional current to the spark already present in the spark plug (802). After a predetermined time, the control element (816) is turned off. The energy stored on the primary side is distributed to the capacitor (807) via the diode (806) by the winding (805).

[0044] In one embodiment, the circuit in Figure 8 may be operated in a different mode. In this mode-2, switches (811, 819) are switched on, and switch (804) remains open. No pulse is applied from the pulse terminal (826), and switch (804) remains open. As a result, current flows through the winding (803) due to the bias current supplied from the V+ power supply through the resistor (813). This induces a positive voltage in the winding (810) at the ungrounded terminal. During this time, the diode (806) is reverse-biased. This causes current to flow through the capacitor (812), the resistor (814), and the control terminal of the control element (816). This current increases the current flowing through the winding (803). This increases the voltage induced in the winding (810), and further increases the current to the control terminal of the control element (816). This positive feedback continuously increases the current flowing through the winding (803). During this time, a voltage is induced in the winding (801), which generates a spark at the spark plug (802). However, after a while, the core of the transformer (800) becomes saturated, which reduces the voltage in the winding (810). This reduces the current flowing through the control terminal of the control element (816). This further reduces the current in the winding (803). During this stage, a voltage is also induced in the winding (801), which causes current to flow through the spark plug (802). During this time, the diode (806) is also forward-biased, and the high induced voltage in the winding (805) supplies power to the capacitor (807) via the diode (806).

[0045] As the voltage across winding (810) decreases, the current across winding (803) decreases further, eventually turning off the control element (816). The energy stored in the transformer is distributed to the spark plug (802) via winding (801). A portion of the energy stored in the transformer (800) is also distributed to the capacitor (807) via diode (806). As a result, the voltage across the capacitor (807) becomes significantly higher than the source voltage (809). When the control element turns off, current begins to flow again from source v+ to the control terminal (816) of the control element. This causes the control element (816) to switch on again due to the positive feedback described above. This induces a spark again at the spark plug (802). When the transformer (800) becomes saturated again, the control element (816) turns off as described above. At this point, a spark is generated again at the spark plug (802). In this case as well, a portion of the energy stored in the transformer (800) is supplied to the capacitor (807) via the winding (805). In this way, the control element (816) is automatically switched on and off, and energy is supplied to the spark plug (802) during the on and off periods of the control element (816). The value of the capacitor (807) is adjusted to supply a high voltage to the winding (803) for only a very short time to start a spark, after which the source (809) supplies energy to the winding (803) via the diode (808). The power supplied to the spark plug (802) can be stopped at any time by turning on the switch (804).

[0046] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram of a high-energy inductive ignition system having one switching element and one source that initially supplies a high voltage by receiving energy from a high-voltage source through a resistor, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The positive terminal of the DC source (908) is connected to the anode of the diode (906). The negative terminal of the source (908) is grounded. The cathode of the diode (906) is connected to one end of the capacitor (905). The other end of the capacitor (905) is grounded. The positive terminal of the source (909) is connected to one end of the switch (911). The other end of the switch (911) is connected to one end of the capacitor (910). The other end of the capacitor (910) is grounded. The negative terminal of the source (909) is grounded. One end of the resistor (907) is connected to the ungrounded terminal of the capacitor (910). The other end of the resistor (907) is connected to the cathode of the diode (906). The cathode of diode (906) is also connected to one end of winding (904) of transformer (900). The other end of winding (904) is connected to one end of switch (903). The other end of switch (903) is grounded. One end of winding (901) of transformer (900) is grounded. The other end of winding (901) is connected to one end of spark plug (902). The other end of spark plug (902) is grounded. The anode of diode (912) is connected to the ungrounded end of switch (903). The cathode of diode (912) is connected to the ungrounded end of capacitor (910).

[0047] Figure 9 shows yet another configuration of the high-energy ignition system, which operates in two modes. In the first mode, switch (911) is turned on, and the required energy flows from source (909) to capacitor (910). In the second mode, switch (911) remains open, and no energy flows from source (909) to capacitor (910). Other operations are common to both modes. Regarding operation, first, switch (903) is turned on. This causes current from capacitor (905) to flow through the winding (904) of transformer (900). Capacitor (905) is charged to a high voltage from capacitor (910) via resistor (907) when switch (903) is off. Therefore, when switch (903) is turned on, a high voltage is applied to the winding (904) of transformer (900). This induces a high voltage in the winding (901) of the transformer (900). This high voltage starts the spark at the spark plug (902). However, the voltage across the capacitor (905) decreases over time. This is because charging through the resistor is slow and the diode (906) is reverse-biased. When the voltage across the capacitor (905) falls below the voltage level of the source (908), the diode (906) conducts, supplying current from the source (908) to the winding (904). This induces a low voltage on the secondary side (901) of the transformer (900). This adds an additional current to the spark already started at the spark plug (902). After a predetermined time, the switch (903) is turned off. The diode (912) distributes stored energy from the primary winding (904) of the transformer (900) to the capacitor (910). First, in one mode during the initial cycle when the switch (911) is off, no high voltage is applied to the transformer (900). However, the low voltage source (906) charges the primary winding (904). When the switch (903) is turned off, the energy stored in the primary winding (904) is supplied to the capacitor (910), generating a high voltage. In subsequent cycles, as described above, the high voltage source and the low voltage source supply energy to the spark plug (902).

[0048] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of a high-energy ignition system having two switching elements and two energy sources that supply a series of pulses to a spark via a push-pull transformer according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The positive terminal of the DC source (1014) is connected to the anode of the diode (1016). The cathode of the diode (1016) is connected to one end of the capacitor (1012) and one end of the switch (1011). The other end of the switch (1011) is connected to the anode of the diode (1110). The negative terminal of the source (1014) is grounded. The other end of the capacitor (1012) is grounded. The cathode of the diode (1015) is also connected to the cathode of the diode (1016). The cathode of the diode (1010) is connected to the center taps of the windings (1005 and 1006) of the transformer (1000). The positive terminal of the DC source (1013) is connected to the anode of the diode (1009). The cathode of the diode (1009) is connected to the cathode of the diode (1010). The anode of the diode (1015) is connected to the cathode of the diode (1009). The outer terminal of the transformer winding (1005) is connected to one end of the switch (1003). The other end of the switch (1003) is grounded. The anode of the diode (1004) is grounded. The cathode of the diode (1004) is connected to the ungrounded end of the switch (1003). The outer end of the winding (1006) is connected to one end of the switch (1007). The other end of the switch (1007) is grounded. The anode of the diode (1008) is grounded. The cathode of the diode is connected to the ungrounded end of the switch (1007). One end of the winding (1001) of the transformer (1000) is grounded. The other end of the winding (1001) is connected to one end of the spark plug (1002). The other end of the spark plug (1002) is grounded.

[0049] Figure 10 shows yet another configuration of the high-energy ignition system. Here, switch (1007) is turned on together with switch (1011). This supplies a high voltage from capacitor (1012) to winding (1006) via diode (1010). This capacitor is first charged from source (1014) via diode (1016). The current flowing through winding (1006) induces a voltage in the secondary winding (1001) of transformer (1000). This high voltage generates a spark at the spark plug (1002). After a short time, switch (1011) is turned off. Then, current is supplied from source (1013) to winding (1006) via diode (1009). This supplies additional energy to the spark plug (1002) via the secondary winding (1001). After a predetermined time, switch (1007) turns off. The energy stored in winding (1006) is then distributed to the high-voltage capacitor (1012) via diodes (1004 and 1015). If switch (1007) turns off for a very short time, switches (1003 and 1011) turn on. Current then flows through winding (1005), generating a spark at the spark plug (1002) via winding (1001). After a short time, only switch (1011) turns off. Energy to winding (1005) is then supplied from source (1013) via diode (1009). This adds additional energy to the spark at the spark plug (1002) via secondary winding (1001). After a while, switch (1003) turns off. The energy stored in the winding (1005) is then returned to the high-voltage capacitor (1012) via the diodes (1008 and 1015). This switching cycle is repeated as many times as necessary between the switches (1007 and 1003).

[0050] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram of a high-energy ignition system having four switching elements and two energy sources that supply a series of pulses to a spark via a bridge configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The positive terminal of the DC source (1118) is connected to the anode of the diode (1116). The negative terminal of the source (1118) is grounded. The anode of the diode (1116) is also connected to one end of the capacitor (1117). The other end of the capacitor (1117) is grounded. The positive terminal of the source (1119) is connected to the anode of the diode (1115). The negative terminal of the source (1119) is grounded. The cathode of the diode (1115) is connected to one end of the switch (1113). The other end of the switch (1113) is connected to one end of the capacitor (1114). The negative terminal of the capacitor (1114) is grounded. The ungrounded end of capacitor (1114) is connected to the anode of diode (1112). The cathodes of diodes (1110 and 1111) are connected to the anode of diode (1112). The other end of switch (1113) is connected to the anode of diode (1112). The cathode of diode (1112) is connected to the cathode of diode (1116). The cathode of diode (1116) is also connected to the cathodes of diodes (1108 and 1109). The cathode of diode (1116) is also connected to one end of switch (1107) and one end of switch (1106). The other end of switch (1107) is connected to the anode of diode (1108). The anode of diode (1108) is also connected to the anode of diode (1110) and the cathode of diode (1121). The anode of diode (1108) is also connected to one end of the winding (1103) of transformer (1100). The cathode of diode (1121) is connected to one end of switch (1104). The other end of switch (1104) is grounded. The anode of diode (1121) is grounded. The other end of the winding (1103) of transformer (1100) is connected to the anode of diode (1109), the anode of diode (1111), and the cathode of diode (1120). The cathode of diode (1120) is also connected to one end of switch (1105).The other end of switch (1105) is grounded. The other end of switch (1105) is grounded. The anode of diode (1120) is grounded. One end of winding (1102) of transformer (1100) is grounded. The other end of winding (1102) is connected to one end of spark plug (1101). The other end of spark plug (1101) is grounded. The anode of diode (1121) is grounded.

[0051] Figure 11 shows yet another configuration of the high-energy ignition system. In this embodiment, switches (1107, 1113, 1105) are turned on together. This causes the capacitor (1114) to discharge current to the winding (1103) of the transformer (1100) via the diode (1112). The capacitor (1114) is continuously charged from the source (1119). The current in the winding (1103) starts the spark at the spark plug (1101) via the secondary winding (1102) of the transformer (1100). After a while, only switch (1113) is turned off. Energy then flows to the winding (1103) via the diode (1116), and this intern adds additional energy to the spark at the spark plug (1101) via the winding (1102). After a while, switches (1107 and 1105) are turned off. At this time, the energy stored in the winding (1103) is returned to the capacitor (1114) via the diodes (1111 and 1121). Next, the switches (1113, 1106, and 1104) turn on together. This supplies a reverse current to the winding (1103). This generates a spark at the spark plug (1101) via the winding (1102). Soon after, the switch (1113) turns off. Energy then flows back to the winding (1103) via the diode (1116). This current adds additional energy to the spark at the spark plug (1101) via the winding (1102). After a while, the switches (1106 and 1104) turn off. The energy stored in the winding (1103) is returned to the source (1114) via the diodes (1110 and 1120). This switching cycle is repeated as many times as necessary to extend the duration of the spark at the spark plug (1101).

[0052] Figure 12 is a schematic diagram of a dual-source high-energy ignition system having a current-controlled PWM integrated circuit that generates a series of pulses to a spark plug according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The positive terminal of source (1213) is connected to the anode of diode (1212). The negative terminal of source (1213) is grounded. The anode of diode (1212) is connected to one end of capacitor (1222). The other end of capacitor (1224) is grounded. The positive terminal of source (1216) is connected to one end of resistor (1215). The other end of resistor (1215) is connected to one end of capacitor (1224) and the cathode of diode (1212). The other end of capacitor (1224) is grounded. The cathode of diode (1212) is connected to one end of winding (1204) of transformer (1200). The other end of the winding (1204) is connected to the drain of the switching element (1208). The source of the device (1208) is connected to one end of the resistor (1206). The other end of the resistor (1206) is grounded. The anode of the diode (1231) is connected to the drain of the device (1208). The cathode of the diode (1231) is connected to one end of the resistor (1235). The other end of the resistor (1235) is connected to the cathode of the diode (1212). One end of the winding (1201) of the transformer (1200) is grounded. The other end of the winding (1201) is connected to one end of the spark plug (1202). The other end of the spark plug (1202) is connected to one end of the resistor (1203). The other end of the resistor (1203) is grounded. The ungrounded end of resistor (1206) is connected to terminal B of selector (1207). The ungrounded end of resistor (1203) is also connected to terminal C of selector switch (1207). Pole A of selector switch (1207) is connected to one end of resistor (1217). The other end of resistor (1217) is connected to one end of capacitor (1218) and terminal (1230) of PWM IC (1209). The pulse output terminal (1219) of PWM IC (1209) is connected to the gate of switching element (1208). The positive power input of PWM IC is connected to the positive terminal of DC source (1211) and one end of capacitor (1210). The other end of capacitor (1210) is grounded.The ground terminal of the PWM IC (1209) is grounded. The shutdown terminal (1220) of the PWM IC is connected to the pulse input terminal of the pulse source (1214). The other end of the pulse source (1214) is grounded. The negative terminal of the source (1211) is grounded.

[0053] Figure 12 shows yet another configuration of the high-energy ignition system. In this embodiment, the PWM IC (1209) generates short high-frequency pulses at its output (1219) to turn the switch (1208) on and off. These pulses are generated as long as the input signal (1214) is present in (1220). The frequency of (1209) is significantly higher than the ignition pulse of (1214). When the switch (1208) is turned on, the high voltage present in the capacitor (1224) is applied to the winding (1204) of the transformer (1200). This induces a high voltage in the winding (1201), causing a spark at the spark plug (1202). This causes current to flow through the resistor (1206). The selector switch (1207) is used to select either signal B or C only once as needed. The selected voltage appears at terminal A. The voltage at terminal A is filtered for existing high-frequency noise via resistor (1217) and capacitor (1218) and supplied to terminal (1230) of the PWM IC. If the voltage at (1217) is higher than the set value, the high-frequency pulse is terminated prematurely.

[0054] When the pulse ends at (1219), the switch (1208) turns off. This causes the energy stored in the winding (1201) to generate a spark in the reverse direction again at the spark plug (1202). The capacitor (1224) is charged from the source (1216) via the resistor (1215). The diode (1231) and resistor (1235) discharge any charge remaining in the winding (1204) during the switch-off period of the switch (1208). Once the PWM IC pulse at (1219) ends, the next pulse is output after a predetermined time, as long as there is voltage at (1220). In this way, the output of (1219) repeatedly turns the switch (1208) on and off. First, capacitor (1224) discharges, but as soon as its voltage falls below the voltage of capacitor (1222) via diode (1212), voltage is supplied to winding (1204). Capacitor (1222) is charged by source (1213). At any given time, if the voltage at terminal (1230), which represents the spark current at spark plug (1202), exceeds a predetermined value for the pulse at (1219), (1219) is terminated, and this repeated operation generates a series of positive and negative pulses at the spark plug. The amplitude of the rising pulse at spark plug (1202) is kept constant by the action of current feedback at PWM IC terminal (1230). When the ignition voltage at (1214) ends, the pulse output at (1219) also ends. At this time, since switch (1208) is off, capacitor (1224) is charged via resistor (1215). Due to this high voltage at (1224), with each input pulse at (1214), a high voltage first appears across the entire winding (1204). This induces a high voltage on the secondary side (1201), initiating a spark at the spark plug (1202).

[0055] Figure 13 is a schematic diagram of a dual-source high-energy ignition system having a current-controlled feedback system for generating a constant current via an ignition spark according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The positive terminal of the DC source (1320) is connected to one end of a capacitor (1319). The other end of the capacitor (1319) is grounded. The positive terminal of the source (1320) is also connected to the anode of a diode (1318). The cathode of the diode (1318) is connected to one end of a winding (1306) of a transformer (1300). The other end of (1306) is operationally connected to one end of a device (1305). The other end of the device (1305) is connected to one end of a resistor (1324), and the other end of the resistor (1324) is grounded. The ungrounded end of the resistor (1324) is connected to terminal B of a selector switch. The control terminal G of device (1305) is connected to one end of resistor (1316). The other end of resistor (1316) is connected to input pulse source (1317). The other end of pulse source (1317) is grounded. The positive terminal of source (1323) is connected to one end of resistor (1322), and the other end of resistor (1322) is connected to one end of capacitor (1321) and the cathode of diode (1318). The other end of capacitor (1321) is grounded. One end of winding (1301) of transformer (1300) is grounded. The other end of winding (1301) is connected to one end of spark plug (1302). The other end of spark plug is connected to one end of resistor (1303) and one end of terminal C of selector switch (1325). The other end of resistor (1303) is grounded. One end of resistor (1309) is connected to the common terminal A of the selector switch (1325). The other end of resistor (1309) is connected to one end of capacitor (1310) and the non-inverting terminal of op-amp (1312). The other end of capacitor (1310) is grounded. The positive terminal of the reference voltage (1311) is connected to the inverting terminal of op-amp (1312). The negative terminal of source (1311) is grounded. The output of op-amp (1312) is connected to one end of resistor (1313), and the other end of resistor (1313) is connected to the base of transistor (1315). The emitter terminal of transistor (1315) is connected to one end of resistor (1314). The other end of resistor (1314) is grounded.The collector of transistor (1315) is connected to control terminal G of semiconductor device (1305). Terminal A of selector switch (1325) can be connected to terminal B or terminal C.

[0056] Figure 13 shows another configuration of the high-energy ignition system. In this case, the ignition pulse (1317) is applied to terminal G of the semiconductor device (1305) via resistor (1316). This causes current to flow from capacitor (1321) through winding (1306) and through device (1305). This induces a positive voltage on the secondary side (1301) of transformer (1300). This causes spark ignition of the spark plug (1302), and the spark current flows through resistor (1303). The positive voltage generated at terminal A of selector switch (1325) is filtered using resistor (1309) and capacitor (1310). The thus filtered voltage is compared with the voltage of (1311). The output of operational amplifier (1312) controls the conduction of transistor (1315) and also controls the voltage applied to control terminal G of device (1305). If the voltage at the non-inverting terminal of the operational amplifier (1312) exceeds the voltage at (1311), the voltage at G of device (1305) decreases, and vice versa. This negative feedback maintains a constant current through the spark by regulating the voltage at device (1305). First, the capacitor (1321) supplies a high voltage to the winding (1306) when device (1305) is turned on. This induces a high voltage at the winding (1301), starting the spark at the spark plug (1302). However, the voltage at capacitor (1321) decreases rapidly because the resistor (1322) charges the capacitor (1321) slowly from the source (1323). When the voltage across capacitor (1321) reaches the same level as the voltage across capacitor (1319), the diode (1318) conducts, supplying current to the winding (1306) of the transformer (1300). Capacitor (1319) is charged by the source (1320). The voltage at terminal A of switch (1325) is kept constant by the feedback mechanism by effectively changing the voltage across device (1305). When the pulse at (1317) ends, device (1305) also turns off.

[0057] Figure 14 is a schematic diagram of a dual-source high-energy ignition system having a current feedback system for maintaining a constant current via a spark by changing the applied voltage, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The negative end of a variable DC voltage source (1401) is grounded. The other end of the source (1401) is connected to one end of the primary side (1405) of a transformer (1406). The other end of the primary side (1405) is connected to one end of a switch (1409). The other end of the switch (1409) is connected to one end of a resistor (1410). The other end of the resistor (1410) is grounded. The control terminal of the switch (1409) is connected to one end of an input pulse source (1412). The other end of the pulse source (1412) is grounded. The ungrounded end of the resistor (1410) is also connected to a terminal (1413) of a feedback control device (1411). The other input terminal (1414) of the feedback control device (1411) is connected to one end of the input reference voltage terminal (1416). The other end of the terminal is grounded. The output terminal of the feedback control device (1411) is connected to the control terminal of the source (1401). One end of the secondary winding (1407) of the transformer (1406) is grounded. The other end of the secondary winding (1407) is connected to one end of the spark plug (1408). The other end of the spark plug (1408) is grounded.

[0058] The input pulse source (1412) supplies the necessary pulses to the control terminal of the switch (1409), turning the switch (1409) on. This causes current to flow from the source (1401) through the switch (1409) and through the resistor (1410) to the primary side (1405) of the transformer (1406). This induces a voltage on the secondary side (1407), starting the spark plug (1408). Simultaneously, a DC reference voltage is applied to terminal (1414) of the feedback control device (1411). The feedback control device (1411) receives the voltage generated at resistor (1410) at its terminal (1413). The feedback control device compares the voltage at terminal (1413) with the reference voltage (1416) at (1414), changes the voltage at terminal (1415), and applies this voltage to the control terminal of the power supply (1401). The output voltage of the power supply (1401) is changed so that the voltages at the terminals (1414 and 1413) of the feedback control device (1411) are always equal. In this way, the current flowing through the spark plug 1408 is indirectly controlled by the voltage at the input terminal (1416).

[0059] Figure 15 is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of the ignition system of Figure 1, and depicts a typical waveform substantially obtained for Figure 1 in Mode-1, where switch (160) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is ON. The waveform depicts the current passing through a 1 mm gap spark plug. Here, the circuit of Figure 1 is substantially used in Mode-1. The DC low voltage is set to 50 V and the DC high voltage is set to 300 V. A high-voltage boost transformer with a ratio of 1:80 is used, and the total resistance of the secondary spark plug circuit is 10 kΩ. The positive waveform is present while the primary current is ON, and the negative waveform is due to the energy stored in the transformer when the primary current is OFF.

[0060] Figure 16 is a flowchart showing the steps involved in a method (1600) for assembling an ignition system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Method (1600) includes, in step 1601, providing a high-voltage energy source and a low-voltage energy source. Method (1600) includes, in step 1602, The transformer is provided with a primary winding, and the transformer connects the primary winding to a high-voltage energy source and a low-voltage energy source via switching elements so that energy is supplied from the high-voltage energy source and the low-voltage energy source via switching elements in order to generate a considerable amount of current. The method further includes the following: In step 1603, the discharge circuit discharges to the transformer in a regular manner. After activating the high-voltage energy source to supply energy to the spark plug The method involves enabling a low-voltage energy source, further comprising the arrangement of a discharge circuit in a predetermined position and the supply of a high-voltage energy source from a transformer via a secondary winding.

[0061] The various embodiments of the ignition system with dual energy sources described above allow for the use of a spark initiation transformer to supply additional energy to the spark. The system provides a high-voltage spark initiation source and a low-voltage supplemental current source in a cost-effective manner. Applied method This allows for the generation of high currents in ignition systems used in internal combustion engines. The system enables a very high voltage rise time that instantly breaks down the spark gap, preventing the voltage from slowly dissipating within the circuit. This allows for ignition with dirty plugs or large gaps.

[0062] Those skilled in the art will understand that the general descriptions above and the detailed descriptions below are illustrative and descriptive, and not intended to limit, the disclosure. Specific language is used to illustrate the disclosure, but this is not intended to create any limitation.

[0063] The drawings and the above description illustrate examples of embodiments. Those skilled in the art will understand that it is entirely possible to combine one or more of the described elements to form a single functional element. Alternatively, a particular element may be divided into multiple functional elements. Elements of one embodiment may be added to another embodiment. For example, the order of the processes described herein may be changed, and the invention is not limited to the embodiments described herein. Furthermore, the operations in the flowchart do not need to be performed in the order shown, and not all operations necessarily need to be performed. Operations that do not depend on other operations may also be performed in parallel with other operations. The scope of the embodiments is not limited by these specific examples.

Claims

1. A high-voltage energy source (103) and Low-voltage energy source (104), A transformer (150) comprising a primary winding (110) connected to the high-voltage energy source (103) and the low-voltage energy source (104) via a switching element, wherein the primary winding (110) is configured to receive energy from the high-voltage energy source and the low-voltage energy source via the switching element to generate a considerable amount of current, An energy supply circuit is positioned such that the high-voltage energy source (103) is activated first, followed by the low-voltage energy source (104), in order to enable energy to be supplied to the spark plug (112) in a regular manner, and the high-voltage energy is supplied by the transformer (150) via the secondary winding (109), Equipped with, First, energy is supplied from the high-voltage energy source (103) to start the spark, and then the low-voltage energy source (104) adds additional energy to the started spark. The starting of the spark and the addition of additional energy to the spark are performed while the primary winding (110) of the transformer (150) is conducting. Dual energy ignition system (10), wherein the current from the high-voltage energy source (103) to the transformer (150) is restricted to one mode by using a transistor (153) and its associated circuitry, and the high-voltage energy source (103) in yet another mode supplies energy to the transformer (110) using energy recovered from the primary winding (110) via a diode (105) without receiving energy from the energy source (180).

2. To provide a high-voltage energy source and a low-voltage energy source (1601), A transformer (150) equipped with a primary winding (110) is provided, and the primary winding (110) is connected to the high-voltage energy source (103) and the low-voltage energy source (104) via a switch element in order to supply energy from the high-voltage energy source and the low-voltage energy source via a switch element in order to generate a corresponding amount of current to the spark plug (1602), In order to discharge the transformer in a regular manner via the discharge circuit and supply energy to the spark plug (112), the low-voltage energy source (104) is activated after the high-voltage energy source (103), wherein the discharge circuit is positioned in a predetermined location and the high-voltage energy is supplied by the transformer via the secondary winding (1603), A method comprising (1600).

Images