Glow Plug Outer Conductor Layer Partial Coverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing glow plugs lack adaptability in electrical resistance to meet the specific requirements of different engines or vehicles, and their manufacturing process is not cost-effective for producing customized resistance values.
Innovation Solution
A glow plug design where the outer conductor layer partially covers the insulation layer, allowing for adjustable electrical resistance through precise printing of ceramic material, enabling production methods like jet printing to set desired resistance values, and an optional protective layer for increased durability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the outer conductor layer completely covers the insulation layer in the heating portion, then the structural integrity and protection of the heating element is improved, but the electrical resistance cannot be adapted to different engine requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The outer conductor layer is applied selectively to only certain areas of the insulation layer in the heating portion, rather than completely covering it. This local application creates different electrical resistance zones, allowing the glow plug to be adapted to different engine requirements while maintaining structural integrity in covered areas.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a customized electrical resistance is achieved by modifying the heating portion structure, then the adaptability to different engines is improved, but the manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical structural modifications with a simpler printing process. By using printing methods to apply the outer conductor layer in specific patterns, the electrical resistance can be customized without requiring complex mechanical assembly or structural changes, thereby reducing manufacturing complexity and cost.
3Temperature
If the outer conductor layer is partially removed to create heating portions, then the heating efficiency is improved, but the mechanical strength and durability of the glow pencil decrease
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of completely removing the outer conductor layer, the patent applies it selectively to specific areas. This localized application maintains the protective function and mechanical strength in covered areas while still enabling efficient heat emission from uncovered areas, thus resolving the contradiction between heating efficiency and mechanical strength.
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
The solution allows for cost-effective production of glow plugs with tailored electrical resistance, improved durability, and precise control over target temperatures, enhancing fuel combustion efficiency and reducing exhaust emissions.
Implementation Method 1
Jet printing methods are particularly well suited. Pad printing methods are also possible, for example.
Implementation Method 2
Once the green body has been sintered, the outer layer forms the outer conductor of the glow pencil
Implementation Method 3
By sintering the green body, an outer conductor layer having increased electrical resistance, that is to say, a heating layer, is formed from the slip layer
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a glow plug for a diesel engine, said glow plug comprising a ceramic glow pencil, which has a heating portion, and a housing, from which the glow pencil protrudes, wherein the glow pencil has a ceramic inner conductor, an insulation layer surrounding the inner conductor, and a ceramic outer conductor layer arranged on the insulation layer. In accordance with this disclosure, the outer conductor layer in the heating portion only partially covers the insulation layer.