Two-Dimensional Igniter for In-Cylinder Gas Velocity Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current diagnostic and analysis methods struggle to accurately determine in-cylinder charge motion and composition in real-time, particularly in variable Miller cycle engines and those using internal or external exhaust gas recirculation, which hinders efficient engine performance and calibration.
Innovation Solution
A two-dimensional igniter with angled spark gaps and an activation/measurement unit capable of real-time electrical measurements, allowing for simultaneous gas velocity and composition analysis by sustaining electrical arcs and measuring capacitance between parallel plates, providing data on gas velocity and composition in two dimensions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional diagnostic methods are used to measure in-cylinder charge motion and composition, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision and real-time capability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The igniter is designed to perform multiple functions: it can ignite the air-fuel mixture through spark gaps and simultaneously measure in-cylinder charge motion and composition through capacitance measurement circuits. This multi-functionality allows a single device to serve both combustion initiation and diagnostic purposes, resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the ignition system and measurement system into a single integrated igniter assembly. The spark gaps and capacitance measurement circuits share the same physical structure and installation location, merging two separate diagnostic functions into one unified device that provides comprehensive in-cylinder charge analysis
2Measurement precision
If single-point measurement is used, then device complexity is minimized, but measurement precision and comprehensiveness of charge analysis are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The igniter incorporates two pairs of spark gaps oriented at different angles (e.g., orthogonal) to each other, enabling measurements in two spatial dimensions. This dimensional expansion allows simultaneous measurement of charge motion components in different directions, providing comprehensive velocity vector information and improving the accuracy of charge motion analysis
3Productivity
If real-time measurements are implemented, then productivity and engine control capability are improved, but device complexity and measurement difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical measurement systems with electrical measurement methods. Capacitance measurement circuits are used to detect in-cylinder charge properties through electrical signals, which can be processed in real-time. This substitution of electrical fields for mechanical sensing simplifies real-time data acquisition and processing while maintaining measurement accuracy
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables real-time prediction and control of combustion behavior, improving engine efficiency and calibration by quantifying gas velocities and compositions, facilitating better engine design and operation.
Implementation Method 1
Two pairs of parallel plates provide two spark gaps so that the flow velocity can be measured in two directions simultaneously
Implementation Method 2
measuring capacitance between parallel plates, providing data on gas velocity and composition in two dimensions
Data Source
AI summary
An igniter system for measuring gas velocity and/or gas composition within the combustion chamber of an internal combustion engine. The igniter has an insulator body and conductive shell around the top portion of the insulator body, configured so that the igniter can be installed in place of a conventional spark plug. The igniter has two pairs of electrodes, each pair of electrodes providing a spark gap and operable to generate a spark within the combustion chamber. An activation and measurement unit is operable to generate a sustained arc in each spark gap, and to measure the voltage, current and capacitance in a measurement circuit associated with each spark gap. From various electrical measurements, the velocity and composition of the gas in the combustion chamber can be determined.