Spark Plug Hole Adapter for Clean, Controlled Fogging Oil Injection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current lubricating fluid dispensing systems for internal combustion engines introduce contaminants and suffer from inconsistent oil application, leading to potential engine damage and safety risks due to open spark plug holes during storage or maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A closed, one-time use dispensing system with a dispensing adapter that fits various spark plug hole diameters and thread sizes, including a grip for easy operation and a valve mechanism to control fluid release, preventing over or under application of fogging oil and acting as a plug to seal the spark plug hole.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a multi-use aerosol can with open spark plug hole is used for fogging oil application, then the user can access the cylinder, but contaminants enter the engine cylinder causing wear and damage
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the operation into distinct phases: the adapter remains in the spark plug hole to seal it, while the dispensing tube can be inserted and removed independently to apply oil. This segmentation allows the cylinder to remain sealed during non-dispensing periods while still permitting controlled access for oil application.
Solution Approach 2:
The dispensing adapter acts as an intermediary component that threads into the spark plug hole and provides a sealed interface. It mediates between the need to open the cylinder for oil application and the need to keep it sealed to prevent contamination, allowing controlled access while maintaining overall sealing.
2Ease of operation
If fogging oil is dispensed from a multi-use can, then the user can apply oil, but the amount of oil is not well regulated leading to under or over application
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs a disposable pre-filled dispensing tube that contains a specific amount of fogging oil. This single-use component eliminates the need for measuring and controlling oil quantity, as each tube is designed to deliver the precise amount needed. After use, the tube is discarded, ensuring consistent application without over or under dosing.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the parameter of oil quantity control from user-dependent manual dispensing to a pre-determined fixed quantity contained in the dispensing tube. The tube is manufactured with a specific volume of oil, transforming the control parameter from variable (user judgment) to constant (manufactured specification).
3Reliability
If excess fogging oil is applied to the cylinder, then the cylinder receives adequate protection, but oil bubbles out causing fire risk and oily mess
Solution Approach 1:
The disposable dispensing tube is designed to deliver a precise, pre-measured amount of oil that is sufficient for protection but controlled to prevent excess. The tube's internal geometry and oil volume are engineered to ensure complete distribution without overflow, eliminating the fire risk and mess associated with over-application.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates a visual feedback mechanism where the user can observe the oil dispensing process through the transparent or translucent adapter body. This allows the user to monitor oil application in real-time and stop dispensing when the cylinder is adequately lubricated, preventing over-application and associated hazards.
4Ease of operation
If the spark plug is removed for prolonged periods during storage or maintenance, then maintenance tasks can be performed, but the open hole allows contaminants to enter and damage engine parts
Solution Approach 1:
The dispensing adapter serves multiple functions: it seals the spark plug hole to prevent contamination, provides a mounting point for the dispensing tube, and can remain in place as a permanent plug after oil application. This multi-functionality addresses both the need for maintenance access and the need for continuous protection against contaminants.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter is installed in the spark plug hole before the spark plug is removed, establishing a sealed barrier in advance. This preliminary action ensures that the cylinder is protected from contaminants before any maintenance work begins, and the adapter can remain in place throughout the maintenance period and beyond.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention disclosed herein is a system for dispensing storage or fogging oil into the cylinders of internal combustion engines prior to putting the engines up for storage, during storage, or when removing the engine from storage. The system includes a dispensing adapter for closing off the spark plug hole of an engine cylinder, the dispensing adapter including threads of different sizes and diameters to accommodate common spark plug thread sizes. The dispensing adapter may also be used to temporarily plug a spark plug hole when a spark plug is removed from an engine.