Abstract: An ignition system is provided. The ignition system includes at least one ignition module, which has an input end to receive control signal from the ECU, and an output end to supply ignition energy to the spark gap. The ignition module provides on-demand ignition energy based on an engine operation conditions with adaptively controlled discharge current amplitude and duration using prompt feedback signals measurement of the plasma impedance.

Abstract: An ignition system is provided. The ignition system includes at least one ignition module, which has an input end to receive control signal from the ECU, and an output end to supply ignition energy to the spark gap. The ignition module provides on-demand ignition energy based on an engine operation conditions with adaptively controlled discharge current amplitude and duration using prompt feedback signals measurement of the plasma impedance.

Abstract: A spark plug heat up method via transient control of the spark discharge current. The high temperature plasma channel is used to heat up the central electrode, and the temperature and energy of the plasma channel are realized via transient control of the discharge current. The heating up process takes place before firing the engine, using discharge current to actively heat up the spark plug from inside. By monitoring the discharge current amplitude and discharge duration, the temperature change of the central electrode and the ceramic insulator can be carefully measured and controlled within a proper window. This method can be used to measure the heating range of the spark plug, and to prevent or remove the carbon deposit on the central electrode and the ceramic insulator generated under various engine operation conditions, such as engine cold start, full load operation, and heavy EGR condition, as well as realize self-cleaning.

Abstract: A spark plug heat up method via transient control of the spark discharge current. The high temperature plasma channel is used to heat up the central electrode, and the temperature and energy of the plasma channel are realized via transient control of the discharge current. The heating up process takes place before firing the engine, using discharge current to actively heat up the spark plug from inside. By monitoring the discharge current amplitude and discharge duration, the temperature change of the central electrode and the ceramic insulator can be carefully measured and controlled within a proper window. This method can be used to measure the heating range of the spark plug, and to prevent or remove the carbon deposit on the central electrode and the ceramic insulator generated under various engine operation conditions, such as engine cold start, full load operation, and heavy EGR condition, as well as realize self-cleaning.