Abstract: Engine systems which are safer and have reduced risk of fire are desirable in a wide range of equipment markets. The present engine systems utilize sensors and control systems which reduce the probability of fire or spark exiting the exhaust system. The sensors may monitor a wide range of conditions within the exhaust system to alter the operating parameters of the engine to prevent ignition of objects adjacent the engine system during use. By altering operation of the engine, conditions such as exhaust temperature or unburned fuel can be controlled to minimize risk of undesired ignition.

Abstract: Engine systems which are safer and have reduced risk of fire are desirable in a wide range of equipment markets. The present engine systems utilize sensors and control systems which reduce the probability of fire or spark exiting the exhaust system. The sensors may monitor a wide range of conditions within the exhaust system to alter the operating parameters of the engine to prevent ignition of objects adjacent the engine system during use. By altering operation of the engine, conditions such as exhaust temperature or unburned fuel can be controlled to minimize risk of undesired ignition.

Abstract: An internal combustion engine that includes an oil baffle in the oil sump. The internal combustion engine may include a crankcase comprising an oil sump containing an oil reservoir, a crankshaft, and an oil baffle positioned within the oil sump. The crankshaft may be a vertical crankshaft and a first balance shaft may extend upward from the oil baffle. The crankshaft may be positioned within the oil baffle and a drivetrain may, also optionally, be positioned in the oil baffle. The internal combustion engine may be configured such that the oil reservoir has a first oil level when the internal combustion engine is off and a second oil level when the internal combustion engine is running at normal operating conditions. The first oil level is above a floor of the oil baffle. The second oil level may, also, be above the floor of the oil baffle.

Abstract: An internal combustion engine that includes an oil baffle in the oil sump. The internal combustion engine may include a crankcase comprising an oil sump containing an oil reservoir, a crankshaft, and an oil baffle positioned within the oil sump. The crankshaft may be a vertical crankshaft and a first balance shaft may extend upward from the oil baffle. The crankshaft may be positioned within the oil baffle and a drivetrain may, also optionally, be positioned in the oil baffle. The internal combustion engine may be configured such that the oil reservoir has a first oil level when the internal combustion engine is off and a second oil level when the internal combustion engine is running at normal operating conditions. The first oil level is above a floor of the oil baffle. The second oil level may, also, be above the floor of the oil baffle.

Abstract: A balance system for implementation within an engine crankcase, as well as an engine employing such a system and a method of balancing forces as performed by such a system, are disclosed. In at least one embodiment, the balance system includes a crankshaft with at least one eccentric portion and a counterbalance assembly having at least one connecting arm and a counterbalance weight with first and second ends, where each of the at least one connecting arm includes a respective circular orifice that is positioned around and supported by a respective one of the at least one eccentric portion. The balance system further includes first and second hinged arms rotatably coupled proximate the first and second ends of the counterbalance weight, respectively, where the arms at least indirectly link the ends of the counterbalance weight to a portion of the engine crankcase and guide movement of the counterbalance weight.