Spark Plug Electrode Geometry for Combustion Efficiency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spark plugs do not adequately enhance engine performance and reduce fuel consumption, particularly in racing applications where small improvements can significantly impact outcomes.
Innovation Solution
A spark plug design featuring an enlarged central electrode and multiple peripheral electrodes, which stabilizes sparks, releases more energy, and facilitates rapid ion movement to improve combustion efficiency, reducing fuel consumption and emissions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional spark plug design is used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but engine performance enhancement and fuel consumption reduction are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The spark plug electrode is divided into multiple segments: a central electrode and multiple peripheral electrodes arranged around it. This segmentation creates multiple spark discharge paths simultaneously, enhancing combustion efficiency and engine performance while maintaining a manageable structural complexity through modular electrode arrangement.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a single-point discharge (conventional spark plug) to a three-dimensional discharge structure with peripheral electrodes positioned at specific angles around the central electrode. This spatial dimensionality change creates a conical discharge pattern that enhances combustion effectiveness throughout the combustion chamber.
2Adaptability or versatility
If single heat range application is used, then manufacturing and inventory complexity is reduced, but adaptability to different operating conditions is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The spark plug design with central and peripheral electrodes creates a multi-functional ignition system that can effectively operate across a wide range of conditions (street, track, drag racing, nitrous applications) without requiring different heat ranges. The multiple electrode configuration provides universal adaptability to various operating scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the fundamental parameter of spark discharge geometry from linear to three-dimensional conical pattern. This parameter change in discharge structure allows the single heat range design to adapt to various operating conditions that would traditionally require different heat ranges, eliminating the need for multiple specialized spark plug variants.
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 design enhances engine performance by increasing horsepower and torque, reduces fuel consumption, and minimizes misfires and emissions, allowing for a single heat range application compared to conventional spark plugs.
Implementation Method 1
spark plug which stabilizes sparks, releases more energy, and facilitates rapid ion movement
Implementation Method 2
facilitates rapid ion movement to improve combustion efficiency, reducing fuel consumption and emissions
Data Source
Figure 1~3B
Figure 4A~4N
AI summary
A spark plug (10) has a central electrode (12) and a plurality of peripheral electrodes 14. Each peripheral electrode (14) has a lower portion (25) and an upper portion (26). Each upper portion (26) has a distal-most point (28). Each distal-most point (28) is disposed in a central plane (30) within which the longitudinal axis (20) of the distal portion (18) of the central electrode (12) is wholly disposed. The cross-section of each upper portion (26) taken along its central plane (30) defines a convex outer side (32) and a non-convex inner side (34). Each convex outer side (33) has a curved surface (36) which is tangent to a plurality of tangent planes (38), all of which intersect the longitudinal axis (30) of the distal portion (18) of the central electrode (12) at points at or above the distal end (22) of the distal point of the central electrode (12).