Dual Coil Ignition System with Diode Network for Spark Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Dual coil ignition systems face challenges in balancing high peak secondary currents and long spark durations, leading to suboptimal performance under varying engine conditions, as these characteristics are competing and result in systems devaluing operation under certain conditions.
Innovation Solution
A dual coil ignition system with a first low inductance coil and a second high inductance coil connected in series via a diode network, allowing independent control of dwell times and providing high peak secondary currents and long spark duration based on combustion conditions, with the diode network ensuring additional spark energy is only provided when needed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If high peak secondary currents are provided at high speed and high load conditions, then efficient operation and stable combustion are achieved, but long spark durations cannot be provided simultaneously under lean and/or dilute conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The ignition system is divided into two separate coils: a first coil optimized for high peak secondary current delivery, and a second coil optimized for extended spark duration. This segmentation allows each coil to specialize in one function, resolving the contradiction between providing high peak currents and long spark durations that cannot be achieved simultaneously by a single coil design.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between different coil configurations based on operating conditions. The control system selectively activates the first coil, second coil, or both coils in series depending on whether high peak current, long spark duration, or both are required, allowing the system to adapt its characteristics to match specific combustion needs.
2Duration of action of moving object
If long spark durations are provided under lean and/or dilute conditions, then stable combustion is achieved, but high peak secondary currents cannot be provided simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The ignition system is divided into two separate coils: a first coil optimized for high peak secondary current delivery, and a second coil optimized for extended spark duration. This segmentation allows each coil to specialize in one function, resolving the contradiction between providing high peak currents and long spark durations that cannot be achieved simultaneously by a single coil design.
3Reliability
If additional spark energy is always provided, then combustion stability is improved, but electrical energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between different coil configurations based on operating conditions. The control system selectively activates the first coil, second coil, or both coils in series depending on whether high peak current, long spark duration, or both are required, allowing the system to adapt its characteristics to match specific combustion needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes its operational parameters by selectively activating different coil configurations based on detected combustion conditions. When additional spark energy is needed for stability, both coils are activated; when conditions are favorable, only one coil is used, thereby reducing energy consumption while maintaining reliability.
4Power
If two separate coil packages are used, then high peak currents and long spark duration can be provided, but packaging real estate requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the first and second coils into a single integrated coil package, with both coils sharing a common magnetic core and housing. This consolidation reduces the overall packaging space required compared to using two separate coil packages, while still providing both high peak current capability and extended spark duration through selective activation.
Solution Approach 2:
The second coil is wound around the same magnetic core as the first coil, creating a nested configuration where both coils occupy the same spatial envelope. This nesting approach allows both coils to coexist within a single compact package, significantly reducing the packaging real estate requirements compared to side-by-side or separate coil arrangements.
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 reduces electrical energy consumption, extends component lifespan by lowering diode stress, and enables compact packaging, as it provides high peak currents and long spark duration only when warranted, improving engine efficiency and reducing packaging requirements.
Implementation Method 1
A first inductive ignition coil including a first primary winding and a first secondary winding and a second inductive ignition coil including a second primary winding and a second secondary winding
Implementation Method 2
The system further comprises a diode network including a first diode and a second diode connected between the first secondary winding and the second secondary winding
Data Source
AI summary
A dual coil ignition system is provided. The dual coil ignition system includes a first inductive ignition coil including a first primary winding and a first secondary winding, and a second inductive ignition coil including a second primary winding and a second secondary winding, the second secondary winding connected in series to the first secondary winding. The dual coil ignition system further includes a diode network including a first diode and a second diode connected between the first secondary winding and the second secondary winding.