Combination muffler and catalytic converter
US5338903A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 17, 1993 |
| Grant date | Aug 16, 1994 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 17, 2013 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02T10/12
- WIPO fieldEnvironmental technology
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
A combination muffler and catalytic converter for an exhaust system of a small internal combustion engine. The catalytic converter is mounted within a chamber formed inside the muffler which functions not only to contain the catalytic converter but also to provide sound attenuation. The combination muffler/catalytic converter also includes an assembly for introducing secondary air into the interior of the muffler body containing the catalytic converter so that harmful uncombusted components such as hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide and nitrous oxides contained in the exhaust gases are further combusted prior to exiting the muffler. The secondary air supply assembly includes an opening formed in the muffler body which communicates between the interior of the muffler body and atmosphere, and a reed valve mounted directly on the muffler body adjacent this opening. The reed valve is operable in response to exhaust gas pressure pulsations within the muffler between a normally closed position which seals the opening and an open position which unseals the opening to permit atmospheric air to flow into the interior of the muffler body.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.