초록 ▼

This invention discloses a system for initiating and enhancing combustion of fuel and fuel-air mixtures by discharging electrical energy in a spark gap. The energy to breakdown the spark gap is supplied by a high voltage direct current source which supplies a voltage high enough to cause initiation

This invention discloses a system for initiating and enhancing combustion of fuel and fuel-air mixtures by discharging electrical energy in a spark gap. The energy to breakdown the spark gap is supplied by a high voltage direct current source which supplies a voltage high enough to cause initiation of the spark without the need for an intermediate transformer. Control of the high voltage is by way of a semiconductor switch, which is preferably a bulk photoconductive switch. Such a switch is capable of withstanding the high voltage applied across it when it is switched off. There may also be provided a further source of high voltage which supplies energy to the spark gap at a lower voltage then the first source after the spark has been initiated. Thus the length of time the spark lasts for may be controlled. This is particularly useful for use with lean fuel mixtures for fuel economy or with diluted fuel mixtures diluted through exhaust gas recirculation for reduced emissions.

대표청구항 ▼

An ignition system for an internal combustion engine, comprising: a source of high voltage direct current energy including a D.C./D.C., converter, the output of which is of substantially the same potential as that to be applied to the sparking gap, a means for storing the energy generated by said so

An ignition system for an internal combustion engine, comprising: a source of high voltage direct current energy including a D.C./D.C., converter, the output of which is of substantially the same potential as that to be applied to the sparking gap, a means for storing the energy generated by said source including one or more discrete high voltage capacitors, a high voltage switch arranged to release said stored energy to said sparking gap including a bulk photoconductive switch device, a further source of high voltage direct current energy, the output of which is of a substantially lower potential than that generated by the first mentioned source; and a further high voltage switch operative, after the initiation of the spark, to maintain the discharge in the sparking gap for a selected amount of time by transferring energy from the second source of high voltage to the sparking gap.