Ignition Coil Data Logging for Precise Engine Maintenance Timing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ignition coil units for handheld working machines lack the capability to provide precise maintenance and evaluation, relying solely on cumulative operating time, which does not account for the operating states of the engine and working machine.
Innovation Solution
An ignition coil unit that includes an ignition circuit, a power generator, a controller, and a sensor, which are unitized. The controller computes engine rotational speed and temperature, stores this data in matrix form, and uses it to determine precise maintenance needs and user operating characteristics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If only cumulative operating time is recorded, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision of maintenance evaluation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the maintenance evaluation system by dividing operating data into multiple dimensions: cumulative operating time, operating state data (rotational speed, load, temperature), and environmental data. This segmentation allows comprehensive maintenance evaluation without requiring a single overly complex system, as each data type can be collected and processed independently by dedicated sensors and storage modules.
Solution Approach 2:
The ignition coil unit is designed with multi-functionality, serving both its primary ignition function and additional functions including data collection, storage, and maintenance evaluation. The controller acts as a universal component that manages both ignition control and data processing, eliminating the need for separate dedicated maintenance systems and reducing overall device complexity while improving measurement precision.
2Device complexity
If only cumulative operating time is recorded, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability of maintenance timing deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback mechanisms by continuously monitoring operating state data (rotational speed, load, temperature) and environmental conditions, then using this feedback to dynamically adjust and determine optimal maintenance timing. The controller processes this feedback data to provide reliable maintenance recommendations that reflect actual operating conditions rather than relying solely on fixed time intervals.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by collecting and analyzing operating data in real-time during engine operation, identifying potential issues before they lead to failures. The memory stores historical data that enables predictive maintenance planning, allowing maintenance to be scheduled proactively based on accumulated operating patterns rather than reactively after problems occur.
3Measurement precision
If detailed operating state data is collected, then the measurement precision of user behavior analysis is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the data collection system with the existing ignition coil unit structure. The controller, memory, and sensors are integrated into the ignition system housing, combining the ignition function with data collection and storage functions. This merging approach enables detailed operating state monitoring without requiring a separate complex data acquisition system, as the ignition components serve dual purposes.
Solution Approach 2:
The ignition coil unit performs self-service by using its own controller and memory to collect, store, and process its operating data. The system monitors its own operational parameters (rotational speed, load, temperature) and environmental conditions autonomously without requiring external monitoring equipment. This self-service capability enables precise user behavior analysis while minimizing additional device complexity.
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 precise maintenance and evaluation of engine and working machine operating states, allowing for personalized service to users based on their operating characteristics, thereby improving maintenance efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
Implementation Method 1
a generator coil configured to generate an induced voltage in synchronization with the rotation of the engine
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2C
Figure 3
AI summary
An ignition coil unit (1) includes: an ignition circuit (10) including a primary coil (11) and a secondary coil (12); a power generator (20) including a generator coil (21); a controller (30) configured to control an ignition timing of the ignition circuit (10) by an input signal generated by an induced voltage of the generator coil (21); and a sensor (2) configured to input load information to the controller (30). The controller (30) includes a memory (34) configured to store working time information which corresponds to operating information based on the input information and the load information, as matrix data composed of the operating information, the load information and time data.