Spark plug heat up method via transient control of the spark discharge current
US11692522B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignees
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 20, 2021 |
| Grant date | Jul 4, 2023 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 1, 2042 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH01T13/58
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A spark plug heat up method via transient control of the spark discharge current. The high temperature plasma channel is used to heat up the central electrode, and the temperature and energy of the plasma channel are realized via transient control of the discharge current. The heating up process takes place before firing the engine, using discharge current to actively heat up the spark plug from inside. By monitoring the discharge current amplitude and discharge duration, the temperature change of the central electrode and the ceramic insulator can be carefully measured and controlled within a proper window. This method can be used to measure the heating range of the spark plug, and to prevent or remove the carbon deposit on the central electrode and the ceramic insulator generated under various engine operation conditions, such as engine cold start, full load operation, and heavy EGR condition, as well as realize self-cleaning.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.