Abstract: A sparking voltage detecting device for an internal combustion engine having an ignition system having at least one secondary side high-tension cord, is mounted on the secondary side high-tension cord, for detecting sparking voltage generated in the engine. A main body formed of an insulating material has at least one through hole formed therein. The high-tension cord is fitted through the through hole in a liquidtight manner. At least one conductive member is embedded in the main body at a location radially outward of the through hole and spaced from the high-tension cord by a predetermined distance.

Abstract: A spark plug voltage probe detects a voltage applied to a spark plug installed in an internal combustion engine so as to analyze a burning condition in the internal combustion engine on the basis of the voltage applied to the spark plug. A rubber collar (74) is provided to surround a rubber cap (7) which is secured to a high tension terminal (71a) of the spark plug (71) so as form a static capacity between the high tension terminal (71a) and the rubber collar (74). An electrical conductor (73) is provided between the rubber cap (7) and the rubber collar (74) and is electrically connected to a microcomputer by way of an output cable (64).

Abstract: An input protection circuit protects a multiplexer used in an automotive breakout box for coupling to an electronic control module (ECM) of an automotive vehicle. The input protection circuit includes resistors connected between the input and the multiplexer and a negative feedback amplifier connected to the output of the multiplexer. The negative feedback amplifier provides a virtual ground. Additionally, the inputs to the multiplexer are clamped to within one diode forward voltage drop of electrical ground by diode pairs.

Abstract: A sparking voltage detecting device for an internal combustion engine having an ignition system having at least one secondary side high-tension cord, is mounted on the secondary side high-tension cord, for detecting sparking voltage generated in the engine. A main body formed of an insulating material has at least one through hole formed therein. The high-tension cord is fitted through the through hole in a liquidtight manner. At least one conductive member is embedded in the main body at a location radially outward of the through hole and spaced from the high-tension cord by a predetermined distance. The main body has at least one incision formed therein, which extends from the outer surface of the main body to the through hole. The incision is forcibly expansible to an extent enough to allow the high-tension cord to be fitted into the conductive member is arranged at a side of the main body remote from the incision with respect to the through hole.

Abstract: A contactless inductive power distribution system operating at 10 KHz has a self tuning resonant power supply connected to a resonant primary conductive path comprising a pair of parallel litz wire conductors each encapsulated within an insulated sheath and supported on a structural monorail beam on which a plurality of electric vehicles can run. Each vehicle has an electric motor capable of deriving power from a resonant pick-up coil wound on a ferrite core mounted on the vehicle in close proximity to the primary conductors. Each vehicle also has switching means capable of preventing a lightly loaded vehicle from presenting a reduced load to the resonant primary. In one version this comprises an isolating coil having a switch to switch the coil between an open circuit and a short circuit, so that when the switch is switched from one state to another state the power coupled between the primary conductive path and the pick-up coil is changed.

Abstract: A direct current power supply applies a positive voltage between the center electrode and the ground electrode of a spark plug in an internal combustion engine after discharge of the spark plug. Ionic current flowing between the electrodes due to the positive voltage is measured by a current sensor. The ionic current caused by the positive voltage is due to electrons, so it has a large magnitude and can be easily measured.

Abstract: An auto diagnostic apparatus having jawed, needle-toothed clips for connection to variable output wires of engine sensors adjacent to the sensors, and a processor which converts the output voltages to output values in reader friendly units understandable to the auto technician, and which stores and continuously updates the minimum and maximum output values for diagnosing intermittent or periodically interrupted electrical current. The needle-toothed clips establish an electrical connection to the variable output sensor wire without damaging the insulation or integrity of the sensor wire.

Abstract: The ignition device of an internal combustion engine has at least one ignition coil in an ignition coil assembly and a secondary side device for ignition testing by detection of a secondary voltage signal from a secondary side from the ignition coils. The device for detecting the secondary voltage signals includes a standard measuring point device (13) at the outer periphery (P) of each ignition coil assembly, comprising advantageously a capacitive electrode, for capacitive read out of the secondary voltage signal from the secondary side of each of the ignition coils (1) in each of the ignition coil assemblies. A conductor (12) is connected electrically with the measuring point device (13) and capacitively to another conductor (8) connected to the secondary side of the ignition coil to transmit the secondary voltage signal from the secondary coil of each ignition coil (1) to the measuring point device (13).

Abstract: The apparatus for measuring spark plug ignition current to monitor combustion in an internal combustion engine includes a spark plug having a spark plug housing containing a spark plug insulating body (12), a pin-shaped central electrode located in the spark plug housing, a ground electrode held in the spark plug housing insulated from the central electrode so as to cooperate with the central electrode and a current measuring resistor (19) for measuring an ignition current of the spark plug. The ground electrode is grounded by electrical connection to the spark plug housing (10) via the measuring resistor (19). The ignition can be monitored by measuring the ignition current passing through the measuring resistor, since the ignition current must pass directly and entirely through the measuring resistor, and the combustion occurring can be assessed from the measured ignition current.

Abstract: An interface for coupling an engine analyzer to an engine having a distributorless ignition system includes a pair of pickup clamps for coupling signals from respective groups of spark plug wires. A logic cell array is supplied with spark plug secondary voltage polarity and pattern information, corresponding to an engine under test from a ROM. The technician is instructed as to which wires to place in each clamp. A semiconductor input switch is controlled by the logic cell array to sort the secondary voltages from the pickup clamps according to polarity. The real and the wasted sparks are then determined based upon the magnitude of the signals from the input switch. The apparatus permits a "rapid test" (of secondary voltages only) by developing a pseudo primary clock from the pickup clamp signals. A CPU in the interface is controllable by an external computer or by an operator keypad.

Abstract: A sensor for detecting the firing of a spark plug while maintaining electrical isolation of electronic equipment is disclosed. In the preferred embodiment, a conductive element is attached to one electrical lead of a neon bulb. A wrap secures one end of an optical fiber to the neon bulb for collecting the light from the neon bulb. The optical fiber carries the light from the neon bulb to a data logging device. During use, the conductive element is secured to an insulated spark plug wire and, when the spark plug fires, a voltage between the leads of the neon bulb is induced, causing the neon bulb to produce a pulse of light. The light pulse from the neon bulb is carried by the optical fiber and monitored by the data logging device. By providing an optical fiber to link the data logging device to the neon bulb, electrical isolation is accomplished.

Abstract: An ignition plug for an internal combustion engine includes an ionization current detector electrode 20 adapted to be coupled to an external ionization detector circuit. Preferably, the ionization current detector electrode extends through a lateral through-hole formed vertically through an expanded portion of the electrical insulator 3. The lower end of the ionization current detector electrode may extend into the combustion chamber by a predetermined length. Further, the lower end of the ionization current detector electrode exposed to the fuel/air mixture within the combustion chamber may form a cylindrical grid to increase the contact area with the combustion gas.

Abstract: An interface for coupling an engine analyzer to an engine having a distributorless ignition system includes a pair of pickup clamps for coupling signals from respective groups of spark plug wires. A logic cell array is supplied with spark plug secondary voltage polarity and pattern information, corresponding to an engine under test from a ROM. The technician is instructed as to which wires to place in each clamp. A semiconductor input switch is controlled by the logic cell array to sort the secondary voltages from the pickup clamps according to polarity. The real and the wasted sparks are then determined based upon the magnitude of the signals from the input switch. The apparatus permits a "rapid test" (of secondary voltages only) by developing a pseudo #1 primary clock from the pickup clamp signals. A CPU in the interface is controllable by an external computer or by an operator keypad.

Abstract: A circuit tester for vehicle fuel injectors uses light emitting diodes which are individually illuminated by the pulse of electrical energy sent to each injector while the vehicles's engine is operating. The housing of the tester may be provided with a longitudinal slot in which a magnetically attached, moveable support for a magnifying lens is positioned. The lens may be positioned over any individual diode to allow viewing from a distance while performing engine tests, and a further moveable polarized filter can be positioned across the magnifying lens to improve the viewing capabilities.

Abstract: A timing analyzer for engine diagnostic testing includes a variable sensitivity knob for testing ignition timing for both a conventional four stroke engine and a DIS four stroke engine. The timing analyzer has a pickup which is adapted to be placed around a lead from a spark plug in the engine. During spark plug firing, a current spike appears in the spark plug lead. The timing analyzer is adapted to be triggered when a current spike above a selected threshold level is detected. When the timing analyzer is triggered, a pulse of light is produced from the nose cone of the analyzer. During engine operation, the spark plugs are continuously being fired, which creates a strobe light effect from the analyzer. The timing analyzer is aimed at timing marks on the engine block, and at a single mark on the rotating flywheel, which permit the engine to be properly timed.

Abstract: An ignition adapter for DIS four stroke engines provides conventional voltage waveforms for a diagnostic oscilloscope. Spark plug leads from a DIS four stroke engine are grouped together depending on their respective firing polarity. A first signal pickup is placed around the spark plug leads from the spark plugs of one signal polarity, for example a positive signal polarity, and a second signal pickup is placed around the spark plug leads from the spark plugs of opposite polarity, for example a negative signal polarity. A trigger pickup is placed around the #1 cylinder spark plug lead. The voltage waveforms received in the signal pickups are applied to the ignition adapter, summed and displayed on the oscilloscope as a conventional voltage waveform. The polarity of the waveform can be reversed using a polarity switch. The waveform received in the trigger pickup is applied to the ignition adapter and compared to a reference voltage.

Abstract: A detector for detecting the condition of an ignition assembly in a burner is disclosed. The flame in the burner is ignited in a fuel medium by means of an electric arc across a spark gap in the ignition assembly. The assembly is substantially inaccessible for the purpose of testing through direct electrical contact without disassembling the burner. A detector detects the radio frequency emission of the arc at a distance from the burner and the control system for the burner. The output of the detector is rectified and displayed to provide a visual indication of the condition of the assembly.

Abstract: The apparatus for measuring the comparative output power of each cylinder of a multi-cylinder engine comprises a digital signal processor 1 and a phase locked loop detector 2. By inputting instantaneous current measurements from (e.g.) a current transformer attached to an alternator output of an engine under test and analysing same in the processor 1, instantaneous engine speed may be measured. This measurement may be processed to determine comparative measurements of compression and power output of each of the cylinders.

Abstract: A method and apparatus of developing a stabilized power firing event signal for a cylinder in a wasted spark ignition system having pairs of complementarily connected cylinders, each with a spark plug connected to an opposite end of an independent ignition coil. The first and second firing event signals are developed for each spark plug upon firing of the ignition coil. The first and second signals are combined with like polarity in a summation circuit for eliminating common mode signal portions. The combined signal, which is now stabilized and accurately indicates spark duration, is used for capturing secondary ignition data and may be visually displayed for analysis.

Abstract: An non-intrusive tachometer for measuring engine RPM includes a hand-held probe having an antenna for sensing radio frequency electromagnetic signals radiated from an operative spark ignition engine. The probe includes means for providing a pulse signal indicative of plug firing events to signal processing means which executes a statistical algorithm to determine the time between spark plug firings and engine RPM. A visual display displays engine RPM. Automatic gain contol means provides the pulse signal with a relatively constant amplitude by compensating for the inherently wide variation in amplitude of the electromagnetic signals among different automobile ignition systems. The signal processing means and display are located separate from the probe in an emissions testing system, or the signal processing means and display are integrated within the probe.

Abstract: An inductive pickup assembly senses the electromagnetic fields of plural ignition elements of an automotive engine, access to which elements is prevented by associated engine housing structure. The pickup assembly includes a frame having a flat platform on which multiple sensors are mounted, each sensor comprising an electromagnetic pickup coil with a magnetizable metal core integral with a magnetizable metal shield plate which covers one end of the coil. The frame has a support member with depending feet having apertures which mate with fasteners on the housing structure to serve as a template for accurately locating the pickup assembly on the housing structure.

Abstract: A self-contained handheld peak ignition breakdown voltage probe locates faulty sparkplugs in an internal combustion engine. The probe has a novel dual-polarity detection system suitable for all ignition systems, distributorless or distributor types. Each nanosecond peak breakdown ignition event is signalled by a high-intensity LED lamp lit for a fixed period of time. An adjustable calibrated threshold level provides precise control of acceptance level. Other problems such as cabling, plug gap, and relative compression may also be inferred. The simple arrangement of integrated circuits provides a novel and useful tool for locating ignition problems.

Abstract: In an engine analyzer system, a test probe adapted for connecting to ignition wires of different diameters. The test probe including a pick-up clip for electrically coupling to the ignition wire and clamping to large diameter ignition wires. A rotatable clip adapted for clamping small size ignition wires is rotatable into alignment with the pick-up clip. The rotatable clip holds small diameter ignition wires in electrical contact with the pick-up clip.

Abstract: An analyzation apparatus for ignition systems that has a pulse detector circuit that generates and converts an AC signal into a DC signal, filters unwanted signals and allows the user to adjust the amplitude of the signal to accommodate differing ignition systems. A pulse stretching circuit is included to increase the duration of the signal and an analog driver circuit is included to convert the signal received by it to a linear voltage suitable for driving two LED display circuits. The LED circuits are connected in parallel with the driver circuit and the visual display of the LED circuits show a display proportional to the amplitude of the signal received from the driver circuit. The LED displays show the amplitude of the signal. The LED circuits have diodes the prevent current flow between adjacent LED's of the adjacent LED circuits. The apparatus includes a function switch to select the LED circuit desired and to interrupt power to the apparatus. A portion of the elements are enclosed in a case.

Abstract: A distributorless ignition interface unit for use with an engine analyzer for analyzing an internal combustion engine includes a processing circuit which responds to analog signals representing true and wasted firings for the cylinders of the engine under test to determine the number of cylinders of the engine and the polarity of the firing of each cylinder and to then characterize the engine by determining the order of the true and wasted firing signals produced during an engine cycle and for producing a parade pattern of true or wasted secondary signals for application to the engine analyzer.

Abstract: A test circuit for setting the synchronizatiom of a dual ignition system, particularly of an aircraft engine dual magneto system, having an oscillator circuit 3, two transformers 23, 24 connected to the oscillator circuit, said transformers receiving the oscillator signal at a cener-tap of their primary windings, in which the primary windings are connected at one end to a common potential and having at least two connections for connecting the test circuit to the ignition system to be tested, said two connections each being connected to the other end of the primary winding 23, 24. Secondary windings 27, 28 of the transformers 23, 24 are connected to indicator elements 29, 30.

Abstract: A distributorless ignition interface unit for use with an engine analyzer for analyzing an internal combustion engine includes a processing circuit which responds to analog signals representing true and wasted firings for the cylinders of the engine under test to determine the number of cylinders of the engine and the polarity of the firing of each cylinder and to then characterize the engine by determining the order of the true and wasted firing signals produced during an engine cycle and for producing a parade pattern of true or wasted secondary signals for application to the engine analyzer.

Abstract: A method of testing spark plugs in an engine is described. The engine is driven by its starter motor or other motor while ignition voltage is applied, the throttle is open and the fuel is cut off. This loads the spark plugs to reveal defects not otherwise apparent. Abnormally high or low plug peak voltages as well as abnormal arc durations are detected and counted and the counts are displayed. A microprocessor based measuring instrument coupled to capacitive pickups adjacent the spark plug wires and to the engine distributor evaluates the spark voltage and duration characteristics and displays the fault data.

Abstract: An adaptor for use in conjunction with an internal combustion engine having a capacitor discharge ignition system provides a substitute high voltage pulse coincident with the high tension pulse of the engine ignition system but having a period which is sufficiently prolonged to enable a conventional engine analyzer to be used to measure the usual engine parameters.

Abstract: A universal sensor includes a dielectric substrate, a curved surface capacitive plate mounted to the substrate and responsive to the electromagnetic field (EMF) of an integral coil ignition system, and a rotatable lever arm mounted to the substrate and having wire holders for receiving the EMF of spark plug wires of a distributorless ignition system (DIS)ignition, the arm operable in a closed position to conduct the DIS EMF to the plate, and operable in an open position for securing a standard ignition coil secondary wire between the arm and the plate allowing the standard wire EMF to be coupled to the capacitive plate.

Abstract: An apparatus for generating a synchronizing signal for a selected cylinder of a multi-cylinder engine having a double ended coil ignition system, including a comparator for identifying a real ignition pulse on the ignition device associated with the selected cylinder and a discriminator for identifying a real ignition signal on the coil energizing that ignition device and circuitry to produce a synchronizing signal only when the two coincide.

Abstract: Engine timing apparatus includes a timing light and a pickup for producing a pickup signal in response to each ignition in a selected cylinder. The operator keys in the desired advance or retard angle in degrees in a range anywhere between +180.degree. and -180.degree.. A program-controlled microcontroller with an internaltimer samples the time period between pickup signals and, using this information and the advance of retard angle, calculates engine rpm and the proper time delay for the flash. The system automatically corrects for system delays to produce extremely accurate timing functions. The system may be used with an inductive pickup for timing gasoline engines or with a luminosity pickup for timing diesel engines. At high rpms the system produces a flash in response to every other pickup signal.

Abstract: An ignition system interface for interposing an automotive combustion engine having a computer controlled ignition with an engine test analyzer. The interface receives timing signals from the ignition computer and generates modified timing based on command from the engine analyzer. Modified timing signals are transmitted to the coil ignition module which fires the spark plugs of the engine. The analyzer may command a shorting of the cylinder which causes the interface to modify the timing at the appropriate time for inhibiting a selected cylinder from firing. Secondary signals from the spark plugs are received by the interface and converted to a proper voltage waveform for recognition by the engine analyzer. The cylinder No. 1 is monitored by the interface and converted to a proper waveform for transmission to the analyzer.

Abstract: Apparatus for determining rotational speed includes a sensor for generating electrical pulse signals representative of rpm in a conventional manner. The electrical pulses are converted to light pulses at the sensor and transmitted to an evaluation circuit, where they are reconverted into electrical pulses that are processed by the evaluation circuit. Interference signals that a rise during the transmission of electrical pulses to the evaluation circuit are thereby eliminated.

Abstract: An adaptor system which includes a transducer for developing a signal from the engine representative of an event to be timed during each combustion cycle of the cylinder being monitored. An input circuit coupled to that transducer processes the transducer output signal and repetitively excites an electromagnetic field generator, typically a multi-turn inductive coil, which is adapted to induce a pulse in the inductive pickup of an associated timing instrument or tachometer.In one embodiment of the invention the generating coil is excited substantially instantaneously upon the detection of the selected injection or combustion event by the transducer. The combustion event being monitored is preferably the injection of fuel into the fuel line to the number one cylinder by the injection pump.Alternatively, the event to be monitored may be the instant of combustion, or firing within the cylinder.

Abstract: According to the preferred embodiment illustrated herein, the invention comprises a platform of insulating material to which a spring clip is fixed, in order that the platform can be slidably secured to the upstanding side wall of an ignition distributor cap, such cap having an integral ignition coil and an exposed coil terminal. Fixed to the platform, and projecting therefrom for a contacting engagement thereof with the coil terminal, is a flexible, electrical conductor or contactor. A spark plug, also mounted replaceably onto the platform, has the central, metallic terminal thereof in contacting engagement with the flexible contactor through a limb to which the contactor is replaceably secured. The limb is metallic, and electrical continuity is made therethrough from the central spark plug terminal to the flexible contactor. The latter projects from the platform in a normal attitude relative thereto with a reach into the center of the distributor cap whereat the coil terminal is sited.

Abstract: An ignition analyzer apparatus tests the condition of the ignition coil of an internal combustion engine. A gating pulse is supplied to a test circuit immediately before the points are to open for a selected cylinder which causes the test circuit to provide a low resistance in parallel with the points when the points open. This allows a reduced primary current to flow through the ignition coil and prevents the production of a voltage pulse large enough to fire the spark plug for the selected cylinder. While the points are open and the test circuit is providing a low resistance path, the primary current flowing through the coil is measured. The gating pulse ends approximately half-way between the "points open" time of the selected cylinder and the "points open" time of the next cylinder so that the rotor of the distributor is between distributor terminals.

Abstract: A portable case structure functions as the depository, transporter and remote, work site satellite for a plurality of engine sensor probes which communicate with a parent test console through a common electrical umbilical connection.

Abstract: An identification circuit for use in conjunction with an automobile engine analyzer system having a plurality of external probes is disclosed. The various probes and other external devices associated with the automobile engine analyzer each include a passive circuit element, typically a resistor. When the probe or other external device is connected to the analyzer, the passive circuit element completes the identification circuit within the analyzer. By applying a predetermined signal to the circuit, the particular probe or device connected may be identified by examining a particular circuit characteristic, such as the voltage drop across a second resistor of known resistance within the circuit.

Abstract: Signal as the milliampere and/or kilovolt signals are monitored from the X-ray tube system via the high tension transformer thereof. These signals may be connected to a heat unit indicator or a calibration meter or both. With the heat unit indicator, the heat level in an X-ray tube anode is monitored and referred to the level corresponding to the ambient room temperature as zero reference. As successive single exposures or series of exposure are made, the X-ray tube heat loading is automatically monitored and displayed so that the operator is aware of the situation at all times. The cooling characteristics of the tube are automatically taken into account and reflected in the reading. If desired, a calibration meter may be connected to the signal derivation circuitry to measure and indicate readily and easily, a plurality of operating parameters.

Abstract: An engine analyzer, for analyzing ignition voltage or current signals in an engine of the kind in which each spark plug is fed with a succession of pulses, alternate pulses producing real sparks to ignite the petrol/air mixture, the other pulses producing wasted sparks at a point of the engine operating cycle remote from ignition, the analyzer including circuitry to pass the real spark pulse and inhibit passage of the wasted spark pulses.

Abstract: A portable electronic device for application in the diagnosis of automotive ignitions system failures is described. A novel probe is described, which can detect and differentiate the voltage on a typical ignition cable or spark plug. Means are provided to shield the differentiating sensor from extraneous fields and to process the differentiated signal to provide simple indications of failure of ignition system components and to identify such components for replacement.

Abstract: A self-contained device for mounting on a motor vehicle, having an internal combustion engine, by means of which the ignition voltages at the spark plugs can be visually monitored by selecting any one of a number of switch points on a manual switch, to connect to a voltage divider at each of the spark plug terminals, by means of which a reduced value of the voltage on the selected device, which will produce a light pulse in synchronism with the occurance of the electrical sparking pulse supplied to the spark plug. The brightness or intensity of the light pulses present, for each of the voltage pulses impressed on the gaseous conduction device, are indicators of the operation of the ignition system.

Abstract: An ignition circuit tester including a pick-up coil assembly for inductive coupling with and location closely along a circuit element to be tested, an amplifier circuit for amplifying a signal picked up by the coil assembly, and a meter to indicate the signal.

Abstract: A pickup probe for engine timing which is responsive electrically to an indicator on a rotating engine part. The free end of the probe is adapted to extend through an access opening in an engine member into proximity with the indicator on the rotating engine part. A sensor is contained within the free end portion of the probe. The probe includes a mounting means adapted to be detachably secured to the engine member adjacent the aforesaid access opening.

Abstract: Device for stroboscopically testing the ignition timing of an internal-combustion motor, comprising a flat elongate casing and a flash lamp and a trigger circuit for the flash lamp arranged in the casing, which trigger circuit is adapted to be controlled by impulses received from the ignition system of the motor to be tested, the casing comprising three parts, a middle casing part containing the flash lamp trigger circuit and, at its forward end, mounting means for the flash lamp, a front casing part forming a removable lens cap having a lens mounted in an opening in front of the flash lamp, and a hollow rear casing part provided on its inner wall with a flat metal antenna member operatively connected to the trigger circuit.

Abstract: An engine rpm sensor utilizes a gas filled lamp for connection to a circu including an engine ignition system and a spark plug. A light pipe is exposed to the lamp and couples an optical signal each time a spark plug is fired to a remote location for utilization in a display or indicating device.