Centrally Located Ignition Source in Combustion Chamber
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional spark ignition systems in combustion devices are inefficient due to the peripheral location of the ignition source, leading to suboptimal combustion, increased emissions, and poorer fuel efficiency, particularly in reciprocating engines where a centralized ignition is critical.
Innovation Solution
A centrally located ignition source is achieved by spanning the combustion chamber with a conductor having a spark gap, where the spark rod extends diametrically across the chamber, allowing for a more uniform ignition and flame propagation, with optional offset adjustments for optimal placement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the ignition source is located in the wall of the combustion chamber to facilitate wiring and access, then the ease of operation and ease of manufacture are improved, but the combustion efficiency and fuel economy deteriorate due to the peripheral location of the ignition source
Solution Approach 1:
The ignition system transitions from a two-dimensional wall-mounted configuration to a three-dimensional central configuration by extending the spark rod through the combustion chamber center, allowing the ignition source to occupy the optimal central position while maintaining electrical connection through the chamber wall
2Ease of manufacture
If the ignition source is located in the wall of the combustion chamber, then the ease of manufacture is improved, but the fuel/air mixture ignition quality deteriorates due to the displaced position from the optimal center position
Solution Approach 1:
The ignition system is segmented into distinct functional components: the spark rod extending through the chamber wall, the electrode positioned at the center, and the electrical connection system, allowing each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining ease of assembly
3Device complexity
If the ignition source is peripherally located, then the device complexity is reduced, but the emissions increase and fuel efficiency decreases due to suboptimal combustion
Solution Approach 1:
The combustion chamber wall serves as an intermediary element, providing both structural support and electrical conduction pathways, allowing the ignition system to achieve central positioning without requiring complete system redesign
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
This configuration enhances ignition and combustion efficiency, reducing emissions and improving fuel economy by ensuring uniform flame propagation and avoiding hot spots, allowing for operation on less costly fuels.
Implementation Method 1
a conductor spanning the combustion chamber and having a spark gap therein to produce the generally centrally located ignition spark
Data Source
AI summary
The centrally located ignition source in a combustion chamber is an electrical conductor spanning the general center of the combustion chamber, with a spark gap at the general center of the conductor. The device may be offset from the combustion chamber centerline, and/or the spark gap may be offset from the conductor center, as required. The centrally located ignition source is particularly well suited for use in an opposed piston engine having a rotary sleeve valve mechanism, with the conductor rotating with the sleeve valve and crossing the combustion chamber between the two pistons. An arcuate commutator section may be disposed upon the exterior of the rotary sleeve valve, with a contact finger making electrical contact between the electrical energy source and the commutator section to supply electrical energy to the ignition source. The device is also suitable for use in stationary installations, e.g., gas furnace combustors, etc.