Reluctor Plate Controller for Precise Spark Timing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mechanical systems in internal combustion engines, such as those using diaphragms and springs, are inaccurate and unable to provide precise control over spark advancement or retardation based on engine vacuum or pressure, limiting engine efficiency and emission control.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising sensors to detect engine pressure or vacuum, a logic device to generate control signals, and a mechanical actuator to precisely control the position of a reluctor plate, allowing for accurate adjustment of spark timing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If mechanical systems with diaphragms and springs are used to control spark advancement, then the system structure is simple, but the measurement precision and control accuracy deteriorate over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical diaphragm and spring system with an electronic control system. Sensors detect manifold vacuum or pressure, and an electronic controller processes this information to actuate a motor that precisely positions the reluctor plate. This substitution of mechanical components with electronic ones eliminates the degradation issues inherent in mechanical systems while maintaining structural simplicity through integration.
2Ease of manufacture
If mechanical systems with diaphragms and springs are used to control spark advancement, then the device is easier to manufacture, but the reliability deteriorates over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical components (diaphragms, springs, linkages) with electronic components (sensors, controller, motor). Electronic components have no moving parts that wear out, eliminating the reliability issues associated with mechanical degradation. The system maintains ease of manufacture through integrated design where the electronic controller and actuator work together as a unified system.
3Device complexity
If mechanical systems are used for spark timing control, then the system is simpler, but the adaptability to changing engine conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback control system where sensors continuously monitor manifold vacuum or pressure, the electronic controller processes this information in real-time, and adjusts the motor actuation accordingly to position the reluctor plate. This closed-loop feedback mechanism enables the system to adapt dynamically to changing engine conditions, something mechanical systems cannot do without complex additional mechanisms.
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 high-resolution, precise control of spark timing, improving engine efficiency and reducing emissions by accurately responding to engine conditions.
Implementation Method 1
detecting pressure or vacuum created by the internal combustion engine
Implementation Method 2
detecting pressure or vacuum created by the internal combustion engine
Implementation Method 3
using the mechanical actuator to control the positions of the reluctor plate in the distributor in response to the control signal
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a reluctor plate controller that detects vacuum and pressures in the engine which are used to create digital motor control signals for controlling a reluctor plate actuator using a digital stepper motor, servo motor or a voice-coil actuator. The system can be programmed to create various desired responses that function to create better efficiency of an internal combustion engine, less pollution and/or greater engine output.