Triggered Spark Gap Ignition Plug for Gas Turbines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ignition systems for gas turbine engines, particularly those using high voltage solid state switching devices, are expensive and lack the required reliability for generating consistent ignition sparks.
Innovation Solution
A triggered spark gap system comprising an ignition plug with a discharge capacitor and a trigger device, where a trigger pulse signal is used to rapidly discharge the capacitor and generate a spark between electrodes, enhancing the reliability and longevity of the ignition process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If high voltage solid state switching devices are used in ignition systems, then the system can generate sparks, but the cost increases and reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive and unreliable solid state switching devices with a disposable triggered spark gap module. The module contains sacrificial electrodes that are consumed during operation, allowing the replacement of a cheap disposable component rather than relying on expensive solid state devices with poor reliability. The module is designed to be replaced periodically, ensuring continuous reliable operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a triggered spark gap as an intermediary component between the power source and the ignition electrodes. This spark gap acts as a mediator that converts electrical energy into a controlled spark discharge, providing reliable ignition while avoiding the use of problematic solid state switching devices. The trigger electrode mediates the discharge timing by initiating the spark at the precise moment needed.
2Speed
If a triggered spark gap system is used, then voltage rise speed increases and spark quality improves, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into a single integrated module: the triggered spark gap, the trigger electrode, and the power capacitor are all housed together in one compact ignition plug assembly. This merging of components achieves fast voltage rise and high-quality sparks while keeping the overall structure simple and manageable, avoiding the complexity that would result from separate distributed components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a nested structure where the triggered spark gap is contained within the ignition plug housing, and the power capacitor is nested within the same assembly. The trigger electrode is positioned centrally among the main electrodes. This nested arrangement achieves compact integration of complex components, allowing fast voltage rise and improved spark quality without excessive structural 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
The system achieves a faster voltage rise at the ignition spark gap, leading to more efficient and longer-lasting sparks, improving the reliability and extending the lifespan of the ignition plug while maintaining effective ignition of fuel and air mixtures in gas turbine engines.
Implementation Method 1
a triggered spark gap having a power inlet terminal, a power outlet terminal and a trigger terminal... generating a trigger pulse signal to discharge the capacitor and generate a current
Implementation Method 2
a discharge capacitor... charging up a discharge capacitor... discharge the capacitor and generate a current
Implementation Method 3
The electricity is initially provided to a discharge capacitor. Once the capacitor is charged, the current is very rapidly discharged through the ignition spark gap, thereby forming a sudden electrical arc which is referred to as the 'spark'
Data Source
AI summary
The ignition system is for use in a gas turbine engine. It comprises an ignition plug having a triggered spark gap therein.