Spark Plug Identification Mark Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Spark plugs face issues with identification mark deterioration due to rusting and rubbing off during transportation, especially in high-temperature and high-humidity environments, and during packing and handling.
Innovation Solution
A spark plug with an optically transparent protective layer containing a fluorescent substance is applied over the identification mark, preventing deterioration and allowing verification of the layer's presence and thickness using specific light wavelengths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If an identification mark is applied to the spark plug surface, then product identification and tracking are enabled, but the mark deteriorates due to rusting and rubbing off during transportation and handling
Solution Approach 1:
A protective layer is applied to the spark plug surface before the identification mark is applied. This preliminary protective coating creates a barrier that prevents rusting and rubbing off of the mark during subsequent transportation and handling, ensuring mark integrity throughout the distribution process
Solution Approach 2:
The protective layer acts as an intermediary substance between the spark plug surface and the identification mark. This intermediate layer shields the mark from direct contact with corrosive environments and mechanical abrasion, while still allowing the mark to be clearly visible and readable
2Reliability
If a protective layer is applied over the identification mark, then the mark is protected from deterioration, but verification of the layer's presence and thickness becomes necessary
Solution Approach 1:
The protective layer contains a fluorescent substance that changes color when irradiated with light of a specific wavelength. This color change property enables easy verification of the protective layer's presence and uniformity by shining the specific wavelength light on the spark plug surface, allowing quality control without complex measurement equipment
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 protective layer effectively prevents rusting and rubbing off of the identification mark, ensuring its readability and integrity during distribution and handling, while allowing for easy verification of its formation and thickness.
Implementation Method 1
the protective layer is optically transparent and contains a fluorescent substance... by irradiating the mark with light having a predetermined wavelength, thereby, causing the protective layer to develop a color
Data Source
AI summary
A spark plug including an insulator and a metallic member such as a metallic shell. In the spark plug, a mark such as a two-dimensional code is provided on the surface of at least one of the insulator and the metallic member. Also, a protective layer covers the mark. The protective layer is optically transparent and contains a fluorescent substance.