Spark-ignition engine
US5046466A · kind A · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 20, 1990 |
| Grant date | Sep 10, 1991 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 20, 2010 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02T10/12
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A spark-ignition engine is disclosed that incorporates a relatively unlimited number of spark sources within each combustion chamber, without conventional spark plugs being required. The engine includes a planar circuit module clampingly located between a cylinder assembly and a head assembly of the engine. The module includes an electrically insulative substrate; a pair of electrode members; a foil circuit on the substrate for connecting the electrode members to a pulser that generates a high voltage intermittent electric signal for producing spark ignition of the fuel within a combustion chamber of the engine; first and second seals for connecting the substrate to the cylinder assembly and the head assembly. Also disclosed is a kit for replacing spark plugs in an internal combustion engine, the kit including the circuit module and in one version, injector assemblies for use in place of the spark plugs.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.