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 for injecting a gaseous fuel directly into the combustion chamber. Installed in close proximity to the fuel injection nozzle is an ignition device, comprising a sleeve that provides a shielded space around a hot surface igniter. The sleeve restricts flow between the shielded space and the combustion chamber. An inlet opening 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 that is oriented to direct the combustion flame into contact with the fuel spray roots emerging from the fuel injection nozzle.