Abstract: A fuel control system which is applicable to an internal combustion engine that employs a diesel type fuel injection pump. That type of injection pump incorporates a metering valve to regulate the amount of fuel that is delivered to a pair of pumping plungers. The system includes a microprocessor, and there are means for controlling the metering valve by an output from the microprocessor so that the fuel delivered may be kept at an optimum at all times throughout the operating range of the engine.

Abstract: A system for filtering combustible particulate matter from an exhaust gas stream, and for periodically rejuvenating the filter by thermally incinerating retained particles prior to their reaching the main filter. At least a part of the exhaust gas stream which enters the filter bed is periodically heated in a pretreating chamber. The latter comprises a catalyst coated oxidizing bed into which fuel, and heated air are metered to initiate combustion. The products of said combustion are thereafter combined with the exhaust gas to bring it to a sufficient temperature to incinerate the carried particles.

Abstract: Method for filtering combustible particles from an exhaust gas stream, and for periodically rejuvenating the filter bed and catalyst section thereof, by incinerating retained particles. At least a portion of an engine's exhaust gas stream is initially preheated in the catalyst section to raise said section to a predetermined "lightoff" temperature. A supplementary fuel is then introduced to the heated exhaust gas stream prior to the latter entering the catalyst section, thereby causing the fuel/gas mixture to react. Subsequent to initiation of this oxidation reaction, further preheating energy input to increase the exhaust gas to "lightoff" temperature, can be discontinued without affecting the combustible particle incineration rate.

Abstract: An ignition system for an internal combustion engine which employs fuel injection. It uses the injection valve plungers to initiate spark control signals when they lift due to the fuel injection pressure. An electronic comparator output provides the control signal.

Abstract: An ignition initiating signal is developed from the fuel injection nozzle valve of an internal combustion engine. The valve is actuated by fuel pressure which creates an insulating layer at the valve so that when the valve is unseated an electrical circuit is broken to create the ignition initiating signal. And, electrical circuit means are included which limit the voltage applied and the current flow at the valve seat in order to avoid breakdown of the fuel insulating layer and pitting of the valve seat.

Abstract: Filter apparatus for filtering combustible particles from an exhaust gas stream, and for periodically rejuvenating the filter bed and catalyst section thereof, by incinerating retained particles. At least a portion of an engine's exhaust gas stream is initially preheated in the catalyst section to raise said section to a predetermined "lightoff" temperature. A supplementary fuel is then introduced to the heated exhaust gas stream prior to the latter entering the catalyst section, thereby causing the fuel/gas mixture to react. Subsequent to initiation of this oxidation reaction, further preheating energy input to increase the exhaust gas to "lightoff" temperature, can be discontinued without affecting the combustible particle incineration rate.

Abstract: A thermal reactor adapted to receive hot exhaust gases generated as the result of the combustion of a hydrocarbon fuel within an engine. The hot exhaust gas stream taken directly from the engine, is passed into a chamber where it reacts with air, preferably in the presence of a reaction promoting element. However, prior to the reaction stage, the hot gas is urged into a swirling motion and through a constricted passageway whereby to provide through a longer dwell period, better mixing, and avoid direct impingement of the gas against the catalyst bed surface when the latter is utilized.