Patent · US Active

Optimized generation of a radiofrequency ignition spark

US8342147B2 · kind B2 · utility

10Cited by
3References
9Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventors

Key dates

Filing dateFeb 13, 2008
Grant dateJan 1, 2013
Priority date
Expiry dateJul 23, 2029

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
  • CPC primaryF02P2017/121
  • WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
  • WIPO sectorMechanical engineering

Abstract

A method for controlling a radio-frequency plasma generator including a supply circuit with a switch controlled by at least one control pulse train, for applying an intermediate voltage at a control frequency on an output to which is connected a resonator for generating a spark between two electrodes when a high voltage level is applied to the output. The method receives first and second measurement signals respectively representative of the operation of a combustion engine and of the type of spark generated; and real-time adjusts, based on the received measurement signals, at least one parameter selected from at least the intermediate voltage level, the control frequency, and the duration of the control train, to promote branching of the spark generated.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.