Spark Gap Ignition Transformer Control with Flyback-Forward Phases
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spark generators face challenges in precisely defining and varying ignition voltage and power independently, leading to inefficient energy transfer and complex designs due to manufacturing tolerances, especially in flash point measurements of flammable liquids.
Innovation Solution
The spark generator operates in two phases: initially using the flyback converter principle for high-voltage pulse generation and then switching to the forward converter principle for precise control of power transmission, allowing for smaller transformer design and compensation of manufacturing deviations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If the flyback converter principle is used for high-voltage pulse generation, then high ignition voltage is achieved, but energy transfer efficiency is low and manufacturing tolerances have significant impact
Solution Approach 1:
The ignition process is divided into two distinct phases: a first phase using the flyback converter principle for high-voltage pulse generation to bridge the spark gap, and a second phase using the forward converter principle for efficient energy transfer and precise power control. This segmentation allows each phase to optimize for its specific function, resolving the contradiction between achieving high ignition voltage and maintaining energy transfer efficiency.
2Power
If the flyback converter principle is used, then high-voltage peaks are generated, but precise control of power transmission is difficult due to manufacturing tolerances
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the ignition process into two phases with different converter principles. The first phase generates high-voltage peaks using the flyback converter, while the second phase provides precise power control using the forward converter. This segmentation isolates the high-voltage generation function from the precise control function, eliminating the impact of manufacturing tolerances on power control precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operating parameters and converter principle based on the ignition phase. During the first phase, the system operates in flyback mode with specific voltage and current parameters for gap bridging. During the second phase, it transitions to forward converter mode with different parameters optimized for precise power control. This dynamic parameter change allows the system to achieve both high-voltage peaks and precise power control.
3Device complexity
If a single converter principle is used throughout ignition, then device design is simplified, but independent control of ignition voltage and power is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the ignition process into two phases, each using a different converter principle optimized for its specific function. The first phase uses the flyback converter for high-voltage pulse generation, while the second phase uses the forward converter for precise power control. This segmentation enables independent control of ignition voltage and power, achieving adaptability despite increased 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
This approach enables efficient and precise control of ignition parameters, improving energy transfer efficiency and reducing the impact of manufacturing tolerances, while maintaining high voltage peaks and precise power regulation.
Implementation Method 1
an ignition transformer, wherein the spark generator, on the primary side of the ignition transformer, comprises at least one DC voltage source and, on the secondary side of the ignition transformer, comprises two electrodes delimiting the spark gap to be formed, wherein voltage pulses from the DC voltage source are applied to the ignition transformer on the primary side thereof, which voltage pulses generate ignition voltage pulses on the secondary side
Implementation Method 2
Spark generators are used to create an ion channel by means of high-voltage pulses in a path between two electrically conductive materials (electrodes)
Implementation Method 3
The spark generated and the current flowing thereby lead to very strong heating in the area of the ion channel
Data Source
AI summary
In a method for creating a spark across a spark gap, in particular for igniting a flammable liquid to measure its flash point, by means of a spark generator which comprises an ignition transformer, wherein the spark generator, on the primary side of the ignition transformer, comprises at least one DC voltage source and, on the secondary side of the ignition transformer, comprises two electrodes delimiting the spark gap to be formed, wherein voltage pulses from the DC voltage source are applied to the ignition transformer on the primary side thereof, which voltage pulses generate ignition voltage pulses on the secondary side, the ignition transformer is operated in a first phase according to the flyback converter principle and in a subsequent, second phase according to the forward converter principle.