Compression Tester Adapter for 12-mm Spark Plug Sockets
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Solution Overview
Problem
Standard compression testers are not compatible with newer engines that utilize 12-mm nominal spark plug threads, such as the Ford Triton three-valve V8 engine family, limiting their ability to accurately measure compression pressure.
Innovation Solution
A compression tester adapter with a cylindrical plug fitting, external threads, a gasket, and a flexible hose that engages 12-mm nominal spark plug sockets, creating airtight seals and allowing connection to standard compression testers, enabling measurement of compression pressure in engines with non-standard thread sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If standard compression testers with conventional spark plug sockets are used, then compatibility with traditional engines is maintained, but compatibility with newer engines having 12-mm nominal spark plug threads is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the intermediary principle by introducing an adapter that mediates between the standard compression tester hose assembly and the 12-mm nominal spark plug socket. The adapter includes a 12-mm external thread portion that engages with the engine's spark plug socket, while the internal passage allows compressed gas to flow from the engine cylinder to the compression pressure gauge, thus enabling compatibility without modifying the original compression tester
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter is segmented into distinct functional portions: a 12-mm external thread portion for engaging the spark plug socket, an internal passage for gas flow, and an internal thread portion for connecting to the compression tester hose assembly. This segmentation allows each portion to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall compatibility
2Reliability
If standard compression tester hose assemblies are used directly, then device simplicity is maintained, but proper engagement with 12-mm nominal spark plug threads and airtight sealing cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter serves as an intermediary component that ensures proper engagement with the 12-mm nominal spark plug socket and creates an airtight seal. The adapter's internal passage provides a sealed pathway for compressed gas to travel from the engine cylinder to the compression pressure gauge, preventing gas leakage that would occur with direct connection attempts
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter incorporates specific local features for reliable sealing: a 12-mm external thread portion with precise threading for secure engagement, an internal passage with appropriate surface finish and geometry for maintaining pressure, and an internal thread portion for connection to the hose assembly. Each local feature is designed to address specific sealing and engagement requirements
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 the use of standard compression testers with engines having 12-mm nominal spark plug sockets, providing accurate compression pressure measurements and adapting to deep spark plug wells, thus facilitating diagnostics for engines like the Ford Triton three-valve V8.
Implementation Method 1
means for creating a substantially airtight seal against a periphery of a tapered seat near a inner extreme of the spark plug socket
Implementation Method 2
flexible means for transmitting a compressed gas
Data Source
AI summary
A compression tester adapter is provided. The compression adaptor includes a generally cylindrical plug fitting, including a pilot segment, an external thread, a cylinder segment, a gasket located between the external thread and the cylinder segment and a plug end; and a connector fitting including an attachment interface; and a hose attached to the plug fitting. A method of adapting a compression tester spark plug hose for use with a spark plug socket is provided. The method includes; engaging a threaded spark plug socket in an internal combustion engine cylinder head; attaching a compression tester spark plug hose; and transmitting a compressed gas to the compression tester spark plug hose wherein the spark plug socket thread is configured with a nominal diameter of 12 millimeters; and creating a substantially airtight seal against a periphery of a tapered seat near a inner extreme of the spark plug socket.