Ignition Device Discharge Current Control for Spark Blow-Out Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional ignition devices for internal combustion engines face challenges in preventing the spark discharge blow-out phenomenon, where the spark is extinguished due to insufficient energy in highly diluted air-fuel mixtures, leading to frequent re-discharging and inefficient ignition.
Innovation Solution
An ignition device with controlled discharge current greater than a reference value, calculated using the formula ibf=k*U*n1*lspk*n2, where k, n1, and n2 are adjusted within specific ranges, to ensure sufficient energy for sustained spark discharge and prevent blow-out, with a testing apparatus to measure and control current and voltage values.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If supplementary spark discharging is continuously performed after the main discharge to prevent spark discharge blow-out, then the reliability of ignition is improved, but the device complexity increases due to requiring current control systems and prediction algorithms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent calculates and sets the discharge current in advance based on predicted spark discharge path length and other parameters before ignition occurs. This preliminary calculation and setting of current values eliminates the need for complex real-time control systems, as the current is predetermined to prevent blow-out phenomena.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a simplified predictive model that copies essential relationships (current vs. discharge path length) to determine appropriate current values without requiring complex simulation or real-time monitoring systems. This approach maintains reliability while reducing device complexity.
2Stability of the object's composition
If discharge current is increased to prevent spark discharge blow-out in highly diluted air-fuel mixtures, then the stability of spark discharge is improved, but the energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent calculates the minimum necessary discharge current (ibf) required to prevent spark discharge blow-out based on discharge path length and other parameters. By setting the current to this calculated threshold value rather than using excessive current, the system achieves sufficient spark discharge stability while minimizing energy consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically adjusts the discharge current parameter based on changing conditions such as discharge path length, air-fuel mixture composition, and engine operating parameters. This allows the system to maintain spark discharge stability under varying conditions while optimizing energy usage by not applying excessive current when not needed.
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 controlled discharge current effectively prevents spark discharge blow-out, promoting stable ignition and reducing unintended re-discharging, even under highly diluted conditions, by ensuring the spark discharge path receives sufficient energy for autonomous propagation.
Implementation Method 1
an ignition device (e.g., an ignition plug), which includes a central electrode (i.e., an ignition electrode), insulated and held by an insulator and paired with a confronting ground electrode, and is configured to generate a spark in response to a voltage applied between the central electrode and the ground electrode
Data Source
AI summary
An ignition device for an internal combustion engine with an ignition plug that ignites an air-fuel mixture in a combustion chamber, wherein a discharge current i provided by the ignition plug to the air-fuel mixture is controlled to be greater than a discharge current reference value ibf, which is a minimum current value at which a spark discharge blow-out phenomenon does not arise.