Method for detecting the load on an internal combustion engine
US5408870A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 8, 1993 |
| Grant date | Apr 25, 1995 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 8, 2013 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02T10/40
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method for determining engine load of a spark ignition internal combustion engine. The method includes the steps of charging an ignition transformer to a maximum ignition charge and initiating an ignition discharge between electrodes of the spark plug. The ignition transformer is then charged to a predetermined diagnostic charge which is less than said maximum ignition charge. The diagnostic charge is discharged at a time of the combustion cycle where pressure in the combustion cylinder is dependent on engine load. The duration diagnostic discharge is then monitored and subsequently correlated to engine load. In this manner, the spark plug is used as a feedback element in determining engine load.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.