Abstract: Systems and methods to determine conditions of a diesel particulate filter (DPF) based on correlation between predicted and actual thermal data of the fluid exiting a DPF are provided. Soot loading, ash loading, and/or DPF damage may be detected, and DPF operational models may be calibrated in accordance with such systems and methods. Further, initiation of regeneration may also be effected in accordance with such systems and methods.

Abstract: An apparatus and method to detect combustion conditions using ion signals for use in a feedback control of a reciprocation engine is presented. The ion signals are used as a feedback signal to control EGR and diesel injection timing. The apparatus is an ignition system with a spark plug type of sensor. The ignition system is used to provide a cold start mechanism for diesel engines and start of combustion for spark ignition engines. The ignition is combined with ion sensing feedback that can control the engine.

Abstract: An apparatus and method to detect combustion conditions using ion signals for use in a feedback control of a reciprocation engine is presented. The ion signals are used as a feedback signal to control EGR and diesel injection timing. The apparatus is an ignition system with a spark plug type of sensor. The ignition system is used to provide a cold start mechanism for diesel engines and start of combustion for spark ignition engines. The ignition is combined with ion sensing feedback that can control the engine.

Abstract: An apparatus and method to detect combustion conditions using ion signals for use in a feedback control of a reciprocation engine is presented. The ion signals are used as a feedback signal to control EGR and diesel injection timing. The apparatus is an ignition system with a spark plug type of sensor. The ignition system is used to provide a cold start mechanism for diesel engines and start of combustion for spark ignition engines. The ignition is combined with ion sensing feedback that can control the engine.

Abstract: An ignition system for an engine includes an exciter circuit for use with an igniter, the exciter circuit having a step-up transformer the utilizes a relatively low voltage in its primary to produce a high voltage pulse that is applied to the igniter to create ionization and breakdown. The system also utilizes a low voltage high energy circuit to provide high current energy to the igniter after initial breakdown and during the plasma arc phase. The high energy circuit is decoupled from the step-up transformer so that high current is conducted through a bypass diode rather than through the transformer.

Abstract: An ignition system for an engine includes an exciter circuit for use with an igniter, the exciter circuit having a step-up transformer the utilizes a relatively low voltage in its primary to produce a high voltage pulse that is applied to the igniter to create ionization and breakdown. The system also utilizes a low voltage high energy circuit to provide high current energy to the igniter after initial breakdown and during the plasma arc phase. The high energy circuit is decoupled from the step-up transformer so that high current is conducted through a bypass diode rather than through the transformer.