Abstract: An internal combustion engine comprises a fuel injection nozzle for injecting a gaseous fuel directly into the combustion chamber. shield, is installed in close proximity to the fuel injection nozzle, provides a shielded space around a hot surface igniter and restricts flow between the shielded space and the combustion chamber. The nozzle comprises a fuel injection port oriented to direct a fuel spray against a surface of the sleeve An inlet in the sleeve allows air and fuel to enter the shielded space to form a combustible mixture therein. The sleeve contains a substantial amount of the combustible mixture within the shielded space until it ignites and pressure builds within the shielded space to propel a combustion flame through at least one discharge opening and into contact with the fuel sprays emerging from the fuel injection nozzle.

Abstract: An internal combustion engine comprises a fuel injection nozzle disposed in a combustion chamber for injecting a gaseous fuel directly into the combustion chamber. An ignition device disposed within the combustion chamber is installed in close proximity to the fuel injection nozzle, and comprises a sleeve that provides a shielded space around a hot surface igniter and the sleeve restricts flow between the shielded space and the combustion chamber. The nozzle comprises a fuel injection port that is oriented to direct a fuel spray to impinge upon a surface of the sleeve at about a 90 degree angle. At least one inlet opening in the sleeve allows air and fuel to enter the shielded space to form a combustible mixture therein.