Ignition Timing Control Using Interpolation Logic
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ignition timing control systems for internal combustion engines, particularly in low-cost equipment like motorcycles and tools, are costly, complex, and inefficient due to reliance on central processing units and large memory for calibration data, and mechanical systems require time-consuming adjustments.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus using a simple logic block with a read-only memory table for determining ignition timing advance angle based on actual engine speed, employing linear interpolation to minimize memory usage and eliminate the need for a central processing unit, with a calibration table configured for a limited number of data points.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a CPU and re-writable memory are used for ignition timing control, then control precision and adaptability are improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the essential calibration data from a full CPU-based system, storing minimal ignition timing advance angle data in a simple read-only memory table. This eliminates the need for complex CPU processing while retaining sufficient control precision through interpolation of stored data points.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces expensive, complex, and re-writable memory systems with a simple, inexpensive read-only memory table that cannot be modified. This disposable-like approach reduces cost and complexity while maintaining adequate functionality for the application.
2Measurement precision
If a CPU and large memory are used for ignition timing control, then control precision is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the critical calibration parameters (ignition timing advance angles at specific engine speeds) from a full CPU-based control system, storing them in a minimal read-only memory table. This extraction approach achieves sufficient precision while dramatically reducing memory requirements and manufacturing cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an inexpensive read-only memory table instead of expensive re-writable memory or CPU-based systems. This approach significantly reduces manufacturing cost while maintaining adequate control precision through interpolation of the stored data points.
3Device complexity
If mechanical ignition timing systems are used, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability and adjustment flexibility worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical ignition timing adjustment mechanisms with an electronic read-only memory table containing calibration data. This substitution maintains simple device architecture while enabling flexible adaptation through data modification rather than mechanical adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables ignition timing adjustment by changing the parameters stored in the read-only memory table rather than mechanically adjusting components. This allows flexible adaptation of ignition timing characteristics through data modification while keeping the physical system simple.
Data Source
AI summary
A control methodology and apparatus for an engine suitable for use in capacitor discharge ignition systems for internal combustion engines or brushless DC motors is provided, which make use of a simple logic block to determine for instance an ignition timing advance angle or duty cycle signal based on actual engine speed versus engine control parameter data stored in a table, which is a read-only memory, preferably configurable. To minimize memory space, a small number of values of engine control parameter versus engine speed are stored in the table and the logic block determines the required engine control signal for a measured value of engine speed by an interpolation process, preferably linear interpolation.