Specific Coil Location Patents (Class 123/635)
  • Publication number: 20030183215
    Abstract: An insulator includes a plug side cylindrical portion having an inner space for accommodating a center electrode and a coil side cylindrical portion extending in a direction departing from a combustion chamber. The high-voltage portion of an ignition coil is entirely accommodated inside the coil side cylindrical portion. According to this arrangement, the coil side cylindrical portion can assure insulation between the high-voltage portion and the low-voltage portion. The portion to be insulated and fixed by an insulating resin is limited only to the secondary winding.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2003
    Publication date: October 2, 2003
    Inventors: Tetsuya Miwa, Atsuya Mizutani, Takeo Maekawa, Hiromi Hiramatsu
  • Publication number: 20030183216
    Abstract: Ignition delay in a diesel engine is reduced or eliminated by a fuel injector or igniter nozzle which includes energy supplying fuel conditioning means at the point of fuel injection into a cylinder. A preferred embodiment includes an electrically-conductive injection valve reciprocable in a conductive nozzle body and seatable on a valve seat to stop fuel flow through nozzle orifices. The injection valve is electrically insulated from the body except at its contact with the valve seat and is connected to an electrical charge, at least during opening of the valve. An electrical spark discharge is thus generated between the injection valve and the valve seat upon opening of the valve. Initially injected fuel passes through the arc and is conditioned by the spark energy to ignite almost immediately by compression ignition upon entering the engine cylinder and thus essentially eliminate diesel ignition delay.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2002
    Publication date: October 2, 2003
    Inventors: Paul Gottemoller, Richard Wayne Tupek, Michael Barry Goetzke, Jerry Van Polen, David Corba, Wojciech T. Pierga, Donald E. Meyer, Richard J. Lill, Hassan Z. Hannon
  • Patent number: 6622711
    Abstract: A method of assembling an ignition coil cassette assembly for use with an internal combustion engine having a plurality of cylinder assemblies each including a spark plug, and an ignition coil cassette assembly provided in accordance with the invention methodology. The cassette assembly includes a plurality of ignition coils for respective electrical coupling to the respective spark plugs, whereby to deliver high voltage charges to the spark plugs in accordance with a predetermined firing order, a cassette body structure interconnecting and mounting the ignition coils in spaced downstanding relation with respect to the body, a printed circuit board for delivering power to the coils, and electronic components mounted on the board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2003
    Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Albert Anthony Skinner, Raymond O. Butler, Jr., Douglas Lynn Sprunger
  • Patent number: 6609508
    Abstract: A retaining apparatus for mounting a component in an aperture formed in a mounting surface includes an elongated base member having opposite ends. At least two generally parallel side members each extend from an associated one of said base member ends. Each side member includes a free end. A component having a flange with at least two slots formed therein receives an associated side member in each of the slots. A locking means extends from said side members adjacent said free ends. As the component is inserted in the mounting surface aperture, force is applied to move the free ends of the side members toward each other to permit the locking means to pass through the aperture in the mounting surface. When the force is removed, the locking means and the flange engage opposite sides of the mounting surface to releasably retain the component in the aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2003
    Assignee: Visteon Global Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Todd Christopher Sexton
  • Publication number: 20030127080
    Abstract: A retaining apparatus for mounting a component in an aperture formed in a mounting surface includes an elongated base member having opposite ends. At least two generally parallel side members each extend from an associated one of said base member ends. Each side member includes a free end. A component having a flange with at least two slots formed therein receives an associated side member in each of the slots. A locking means extends from said side members adjacent said free ends. As the component is inserted in the mounting surface aperture, force is applied to move the free ends of the side members toward each other to permit the locking means to pass through the aperture in the mounting surface. When the force is removed, The locking means and the flange engage opposite sides of the mounting surface to releasably retain the component in the aperture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 4, 2002
    Publication date: July 10, 2003
    Inventor: Todd Christopher Sexton
  • Patent number: 6557538
    Abstract: In order to form contact between a control unit and current loads of an internal combustion engine by electrical components through a cylinder head cover which is seated on a cylinder head of the internal combustion engine, a method includes a pre-fixing step for the electrical components, from which step the electrical components are moved into a fixed position directly or indirectly in the cylinder head cover, after the cylinder head cover has been fitted onto the cylinder head, in order to subsequently connect the electrical components to the control unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2003
    Assignee: DaimlerChrysler AG
    Inventors: Dietmar Munz, Thomas Stolk, Steffen Walter
  • Publication number: 20030070664
    Abstract: An ignition apparatus includes a high resistivity ferrite central core with a secondary winding disposed directly thereon. The ignition apparatus also includes, in a progressively coaxial fashion, a primary spool, a primary winding disposed on the spool, a case, and an outer core or shield of magnetically permeable material. The ignition apparatus exhibits reduced capacitance, and eliminates radial partial discharge at the inside diameter of the secondary winding.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2001
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Inventors: Albert Anthony Skinner, James Alva Boyer, Raymond O. Butler
  • Publication number: 20030070665
    Abstract: A “pencil” ignition coil includes a seal member having features that cooperate with complementary features provided on the engine cam cover/spark plug well into which the coil is inserted to provide a retention and tactile feel insertion feature. In particular, the cooperating features are configured to longitudinally align and position the ignition coil in the spark plug well in a predetermined relationship. In one embodiment, the seal member includes a circumferentially-extending rib on an outside diameter thereof, while the cam cover/spark plug well includes an undercut groove portion on an inside diameter portion thereof. The rib has an increased diameter relative to the surrounding, outside diameter surface of the seal member, while the undercut groove portion has an increased diameter relative to the surrounding land portions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2001
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Inventors: Mark Albert Paul, Harry Oliver Levers, Steve T. Kowalke
  • Patent number: 6545581
    Abstract: An ignition unit for at least two sparkplugs of an internal combustion engine, the unit being in the form of a box having therein a reception cavity receiving an electronic printed circuit, a plurality of mutually separate housings extending side by side transversely relative to the reception cavity, a separating partition disposed between the reception cavity and the housings which defines a through opening between each of the housings and the reception cavity, and a plurality of ignition coils, each mounted in a corresponding one of the housings. Each ignition coil is fitted with a primary connector including 1) a fixing member for fixing the ignition coil to the box to enable the ignition coil to be mounted in a corresponding one of the housings, and 2) connection terminals between the ignition coil and the printed circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2003
    Assignee: L'Electricfil Industrie
    Inventors: Thierry Munsch, Raphaƫl Monavon
  • Patent number: 6529111
    Abstract: In an ignition coil for an internal combustion engine, the primary coil and the secondary coil of the coil unit are fabricated of self-welding wire and fixed in a coil case by an elastic material and an ignition control circuit unit is fixed in the coil case by an elastic material. Similarly, the primary coil and the secondary coil are integrally joined by an adhesive. The terminal of the primary coil and the lead of the ignition control circuit unit are joined together by fusion and the joint is partially molded, while the terminal of the secondary coil and the terminal of a high-tension cord outlet are joined together by fusing and the joint is partially molded. Moreover, the coil case is provided with an inner cap such that the fusing and partial molding of the terminals can be conducted on the inner cap, thereby ensuring a high recycle rate and enabling efficient resource recovery and reuse.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Ryuichi Kimata, Kazutomo Nishida, Naoya Toida
  • Publication number: 20030037745
    Abstract: A printed circuit board (PCB) for an ignition apparatus includes a connection interface. The connection interface includes a first hole, and a second hole that is smaller than the first hole. The second hole has a pad associated therewith that is electrically coupled to a conductive trace for connecting to a system connector. The first hole and the second hole are coupled by way of a channel. The first hole is sized so as to facilitate insertion of a winding end, while the second hole is configured to facilitate a soldering operation of the winding end to the pad. The channel width is less than the diameter of the winding end so that once the winding end is in the smaller hole, the channel provides, in-effect, a retaining feature until it can be soldered.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2001
    Publication date: February 27, 2003
    Inventors: Viorel N. Moga, Emanuel S. Felicio, Rick E. Funkhouser
  • Patent number: 6523509
    Abstract: The invention relates to a two-stroke engine for a portable handheld work apparatus such as a motor-driven chain saw, cutoff machine, brushcutter or the like. A crankcase (4) is formed below the engine cylinder (2). A piston (5) moves up and down in the cylinder (2) and drives a crankshaft (7) rotatably journalled in the crankcase (4). A fuel-containing mixture is supplied via a membrane carburetor (8) to the combustion chamber (3) delimited between the piston (5) and the cylinder (2). A bypass channel (22) is provided parallel thereto and supplies essentially fuel-free air to the combustion chamber (3). The bypass channel (22) opens into a channel segment (21) via a connecting piece (24) fixedly attached to the cylinder (2). The channel segment (21) is formed in the cylinder wall (16). A spark plug (20) and an ignition control device (34) are assigned to the combustion chamber (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2003
    Assignee: Andreas Stihl AG & Co.
    Inventors: Jochen Kramer, Lars Bergmann, Michael Raffenberg, Heiko Rosskamp
  • Publication number: 20030010329
    Abstract: An ignition device for a personal watercraft engine, which allows mounting of a four-cycle engine on the personal watercraft and prevents occurrence of leakage of current. The engine for driving a jet propelling pump is provided in a watercraft body surrounded by a hull and a deck. A spark plug for spark ignition is provided in a cylinder head of the engine, and an integral cap ignition coil having a water-proof structure is water-tightly provided in the cylinder head in such a manner as to be located on the spark plug at an uppermost portion of the engine. A water-escape groove continuous to a recess for receiving a cap is formed in an upper surface of the cylinder head. A bottom surface of the escape groove is formed into a shape tilted downwardly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2002
    Publication date: January 16, 2003
    Inventors: Yoshitsugu Gokan, Toru Hasegawa
  • Publication number: 20030005914
    Abstract: An ignition coil unit to be installed in a hole opened through a cylinder head of an engine having a case, an ignition coil installed in the case and comprising a primary coil connected to a power source and a secondary coil connected to a spark plug which is installed in a combustion chamber of a cylinder of the engine for producing spark discharge to ignite air-fuel mixture to generate combustion thereof in the combustion chamber, and a circuit board on which an ionic-current detection circuit, connected to the secondary coil, which detects ionic-current that flows during the combustion of the air-fuel mixture; and a processing circuit, connected to the ionic-current detection circuit, which generates an output indicative of the detected ionic-current, are formed; In the unit, an igniter is also installed in the case, thereby improving detection accuracy of ionic-current and misfiring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2002
    Publication date: January 9, 2003
    Applicant: HONDA GIKEN KOGYO KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Toshihiro Ohkama, Yoshihito Ozawa, Kazuyuki Kubo, Kenichi Ishida, Gakuji Moriya
  • Publication number: 20020195092
    Abstract: An ignition coil 1 according to the invention is an ignition coil having a case 2 and a coil portion 7 accommodated in the case. The case comprises a base resin whose dielectric breakdown voltage exceeds that of polyphenylene sulfide and whose spiral flow length exceeds that of polybutyrene terephthalate. As the base resin has a high fluidity, there is only a limited risk that a defect such as a weld line is caused when molding a thin case. In addition, while the thickness of the case and the electrical insulation properties are in proportion to each other, the case comprising the base resin can ensure sufficient electrical insulation properties even if the case is formed thin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2002
    Publication date: December 26, 2002
    Inventors: Takashi Nagata, Kazutoyo Osuka, Atsuyuki Konishi, Junichi Wada
  • Patent number: 6443137
    Abstract: A spark ignition assembly for use in a spark ignition system of an internal combustion engine, and an assembly method therefor. The spark ignition assembly includes a housing within which a spark plug, ignition coil and connector are housed. The spark plug has an insulator body, a first electrode and a ground electrode at a first end of the insulator body, and a terminal at an oppositely-disposed second end of the insulator body. The ignition coil is electrically connected to the terminal of the spark plug and to the connector, through which an electric voltage is applied to the ignition coil. The housing preferably contains a liquid injection molding (LIM) compound that surrounds the ignition coil and at least portions of the connector and spark plug.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2002
    Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Judith P. Kraft, Patrick L. Gibson, James Alva Boyer
  • Patent number: 6427674
    Abstract: A coil-on-plug ignition system for mounting an ignition coil to a valve cover of a vehicle. The coil-on-plug ignition system includes an ignition coil having a connecting terminal connectable to a spark plug of the vehicle. The system further includes a retaining clip fixedly mounted to the ignition coil. The retaining clip has a mounting portion that includes a slot. The slot is adapted to receive a pin extending from the valve cover for selectively retaining the ignition coil to the valve cover through a twisting connection. A biasing member is further included for biasing the retaining clip in a retaining position. The biasing member is mounted between the retaining clip and the valve cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2002
    Assignee: DaimlerChrysler Corporation
    Inventor: James P Wylin
  • Patent number: 6422225
    Abstract: A suppressor diode for use in an ignition coil, the suppressor diode provides a diode that prevents “make voltages” from breaking down a spark gap of a spark plug. In addition, the resistive inductor prevents electromagnetic interference from the spark plug. The suppressor diode is configured for securement in a confined area of an ignition coil. In particular, the suppressor diode is located between a high-voltage terminal and a high-voltage end of a secondary coil. The suppressor diode includes a spool with a winding surface, a diode is molded into the spool and the diode has a first end connection and a second end connection. The diode is oriented to prevent current flow from the first end connection to the second end connection. A suppressive winding is disposed on to the winding surface, an end cap electrically connects the first end connection of the diode to the suppressor winding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2002
    Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Colin Hamer, John D. Truong
  • Publication number: 20020078926
    Abstract: A magnetically energized ignition system (10, 24) for a small engine includes a rotary magnet system (11, 25) driven by the crank shaft of the engine, a charging coil (12, 26) in which a voltage is induced by the rotating magnet system (11, 25) an energy store (12, 28) which is charged by the charging coil (12, 26), a voltage converter (19, 34) which is connected with the energy store (12, 28) and creates a transformed high ignition voltage, a spark plug (23, 35) connected with the output of the voltage converter (19, 34), a crank shaft position indicator (14, 29), and a switch element (13, 27) controlled by the crank shaft position indicator and which has an effect on the energy store (12, 28), and reduces the disadvantages of known ignition systems, especially saving costs in respect to known ignition systems, especially by making possible the saving of costs in respect to high voltage cabling, the ignition system also being particularly suited to the narrow space requirements of small motors in that the vo
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2001
    Publication date: June 27, 2002
    Inventors: Sascha Kolossow, Klemens Krahn
  • Patent number: 6406307
    Abstract: Multiple annular electrical connectors are each positioned floatably through a respective aperture of a tray. A shield plate is secured over the tray by bolts which thread into a cylinder head. The shield plate has holes centered above the apertures for access to spark plugs disposed below. Each annular electrical connector is centered about an annular pressure sensing device which encompasses the spark plug. The inboard side of the electrical connector is in electrical contact with the outboard side of the sensing device beneath the tray. Insulated wires extend between the tray and shield plate from each electrical connector and connect to a common panel mounted electrical connector at one end of the tray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2002
    Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Edward M. Bungo, Mark C. Sellnau, Anthony Joseph Corso
  • Publication number: 20020043256
    Abstract: In order to form contact between a control unit and current loads of an internal combustion engine by electrical components through a cylinder head cover which is seated on a cylinder head of the internal combustion engine, a method includes a pre-fixing step for the electrical components, from which step the electrical components are moved into a fixed position directly or indirectly in the cylinder head cover, after the cylinder head cover has been fitted onto the cylinder head, in order to subsequently connect the electrical components to the control unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 6, 2001
    Publication date: April 18, 2002
    Inventors: Dietmar Munz, Thomas Stolk, Steffen Walter
  • Patent number: 6360706
    Abstract: An interface device for interfacing a pencil coil to a spark plug is provided. The interface device comprises a substantially C-shaped spring adapted to mechanically and electrically engage a pencil coil shield and also adapted to make electrical contact with a spark plug ground while the spring remains mechanically and electrically engaged to the pencil coil shield. Also provided is a pencil coil shield assembly for interfacing a pencil coil to a spark plug. The pencil coil shield assembly comprises a substantially cylindrical pencil coil and a spring. The substantially cylindrical pencil coil shield is adapted to surround the pencil coil. The spring is mechanically and electrically engaged with the pencil coil shield and is adapted to make electrical contact with a spark plug ground while the spring remains mechanically and electrically engaged to the pencil coil shield.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2002
    Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Albert Anthony Skinner, Raymond O. Butler, Jr., Viorel N. Moga
  • Patent number: 6286490
    Abstract: In an ignition system for an internal combustion engine, with at least one spark plug/ignition coil unit inserted into a spark plug shaft of the cylinder head of an internal combustion engine, said unit being connected by electrical leads with the vehicle electrical system, a sealing body is located between the unit and the mounting opening, said body holding the ignition coil so that it does not rotate and in turn being held nonrotatably in the mounting opening. The sealing body is a molded body of elastic material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2001
    Assignee: Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Martin Koelter
  • Publication number: 20010011542
    Abstract: An angular pin is used in a connecting portion of each component, and a plated copper wire for electrical connection of the component is wound at several turns around the angular pin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2000
    Publication date: August 9, 2001
    Inventor: Taku Nakamura
  • Patent number: 6259344
    Abstract: The object of the invention is an ignition component for internal combustion engines. It comprises: a secondary winding (4); high-voltage output means (11-13) for the said secondary winding capable of supplying an ignition spark to a cylinder of an internal combustion engine; a primary winding (2); a casing (7) in which are arranged the said windings and the said high-voltage output means; and holding means for holding the windings and the output means in the casing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2001
    Assignee: Sagem SA
    Inventors: Pierre Heritier-Best, Laurent Coste
  • Patent number: 6252482
    Abstract: A high voltage post terminal is accurately located within a support aperture during manufacturing processes by at least one inwardly directed projection to avoid assembly problems caused by sizing the entire aperture itself to locate the terminal with sufficient accuracy. By thus improving the concentricity of the high voltage coil components it is possible to achieve more reliable insulation between components at even relatively small-sized coils used for individual engine plug holes. An especially advantageous range of critical parameters has been discovered as achievable by using this more reliable manufacturing process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2001
    Assignee: Denso Corporation
    Inventors: Tomonari Chiba, Kazutoyo Oosuka, Keiichi Okazaki, Hiromitsu Oonishi, Masahiko Aoyama
  • Patent number: 6227186
    Abstract: An ignition system for an internal combustion engine is able to operate without malfunctions, even under unfavorable surrounding conditions, in particular intensive attack by spray water. To that end, the ignition system, projecting into a compartment of a cylinder head, is provided with a protective covering in which are formed a connecting duct that is connected to the compartment, and a vent duct leading into the atmosphere. Both ducts are interconnected by a storage of the ignition coil. Water penetrating into the ignition coil is caught in the storage and evaporated in such a way that no malfunctions occur at the ignition coil. The ignition system is preferably used in manufacturing automobiles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Reinhard Seidl, Christian Bonnefoit
  • Patent number: 6216679
    Abstract: An ignition coil for an internal combustion engine improves high-voltage sealing performance and moreover reduces housing outer diameter. The ignition coil for an internal combustion engine is made up of a transformer portion of cylindrical configuration housed within a housing chamber of a case, a control-circuit portion, that is positioned on one end portion of this transformer portion, causing primary current of the transformer portion to be intermittent, and a connecting portion that is positioned on another end portion of the transformer portion, supplying secondary voltage of the transformer portion to a spark plug. A silicone rubber injection molding serves as the encapsulant while forming the high voltage boot to the plug.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2001
    Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Albert Anthony Skinner, James Alva Boyer, Dwayne Allen Huntzinger
  • Patent number: 6192873
    Abstract: A stick-type ignition coil to be directly connected to a spark plug via a spring. A high tension case containing a high tension terminal and a spring is integrally connected to the bottom end of a high tension generating portion of the ignition coil. The high tension terminal and the spring are separately supported in the high tension case before the spark plug is connected to the ignition coil. When the spark plug is connected, the spring is compressed and contacts the high tension terminal, thereby making electrical contact between the ignition coil and the spark plug. Since the spring and the high tension terminal are supported on separate positions in the case, the spring can be properly compressed without being distorted or jammed between the high tension terminal and the case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2001
    Assignee: Denso Corporation
    Inventors: Norihiro Adachi, Kazutoyo Osuka
  • Patent number: 6149336
    Abstract: A compliant connector for a connection system in an internal combustion engine includes a cylindrical connector housing and a plurality of constant strain beam springs at one end of the connector housing to act as a self-centering/self-aligning mechanism in the connection system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Robert Michael Bartley, Jay Harold Garretson
  • Patent number: 6119668
    Abstract: An engine ignition coil and wiring arrangement uses a connection position assurance device to assist in the connection of ignition wires to an ignition coil and the maintenance of the connections in engine use. The ignition coil is provided with a pair of parallel terminal posts and a mounting surface adjacent a bolt opening. Each of a pair of ignition wires has a cable portion and a connector portion. The connection position assurance device is a T-shaped element having tower portion with a bolt opening extending lengthwise therethrough and pair of connector holding portions extending in opposite directions adjacent one end of the tower portion. Each of the connector holding portions defines a central cavity for the retention of a connector portion of one of the ignition wires. Specific insertion and access openings from the cavity are also provided for insertion and access of the ignition wire connector portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2000
    Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas C. Richards, Harry J. Slaven, Harry J. Wilson
  • Patent number: 6119651
    Abstract: The internal combustion engine fuel system described includes a structure for mixing the alternative fuel, preferably hydrogen, with oxygen in ambient air to stratify the fuel. The system includes an adapter, and the adapter includes a housing mounted between spark plug and cylinder of the internal combustion engine. A plug is placed within the housing. The plug has ridges or grooves on its outer surface that act as mixing structures. Thus, when hydrogen is introduced into the adapter housing it is mixed with ambient oxygen within the chamber as it flows over the plug. The mixing structures in the housing creates a vortexing action as the hydrogen flows over the plug and towards the cylinder of the engine. An electrode protrudes from the plug towards the cylinder. The electrode is preferably platinum and generates the necessary spark to create combustion of the hydrogen/air mixture adjacent to the cylinder to thereby power the cylinder in the engine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2000
    Assignee: Herman P. Anderson Technologies, LLP
    Inventor: Herman P. Anderson
  • Patent number: 6112730
    Abstract: An ignition system for an internal combustion engine having a transformer with a primary winding adapted to be connected to a power supply and a secondary winding adapted to be connected to a spark plug of the internal combustion engine, and a controller interconnected to the transformer so as to activate and deactivate the output of the transformer. The transformer serves to produce an output from the secondary winding having a frequency of between 1 KHz and 100 KHz and a voltage of at least 20 kilovolts. In particular, the transformer produces an output of an alternating current having a high voltage sine wave reaching at least 20 kilovolts. A voltage regulator is connected to the power supply and to the transformer so as to provide a constant DC voltage input to the transformer. The transformer produces power of constant wattage from the output of the secondary winding during the activation by the controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2000
    Assignee: Marrs, Thomas C.
    Inventors: Thomas C. Marrs, Barry Green
  • Patent number: 6055969
    Abstract: In order to reduce the bulk and weight of the upper igniter case division of the armor case, and to lower the center of gravity of the total apparatus so as to provide an igniter which is tough to oscillate, the igniter for the internal combustion engine has the armor case equipped with the coil department and igniter unit therein, and said armor case has the igniter case having the coil department case and the connector department. Furthermore, the coil department case is inserted in the plug hole of the internal combustion engine. The igniter unit is mounted in the igniter case. Furthermore, the igniter unit has a semiconductor device of a simple substance silicon chip having integrated therein a semi-conductor for switching and a current limiting circuitry. The semi-conductor for switching consists of an insulated bipolar transistor (IGBT) or a power transistor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2000
    Assignees: Hitachi, Ltd., Hitachi Car Engineering Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hidetoshi Oishi, Noboru Sugiura, Kazutoshi Kobayashi, Hiroshi Watanabe, Katsuaki Fukatsu, Eiichiro Kondo, Yoichi Anzo, Masaru Ujigawa, Junichi Shimada, Kenji Nakabayashi
  • Patent number: 5979422
    Abstract: This invention concerns an ignition rail featuring a movable connection between the recesses of the tube portion carrier (ZT) and the connectors of the tube portions (ZR) by means of two O-rings, which connection protects against mechanical overloads and the ingress of humidity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1999
    Assignee: TEMIC TELEFUNKEN microelectronic GmbH
    Inventors: Werner Flierl, Herbert Laufer, Wolfgang Weltin
  • Patent number: 5944002
    Abstract: A vented, unitary sealing grommet for establishing a first liquid-tight interface between a ignition coil and a spark plug adapter tube and a second liquid-tight interface between the ignition coil and a valve cover includes a hollow main body portion having a substantially cylindrical shape with a longitudinal axis and including a pair of annular sealing ribs, a planar flange portion which is disposed within a geometric plane which is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, the main body portion being designed to fit between the ignition coil and the spark plug adapter tube such that the annular sealing ribs are compressed due to the interference fit. The planar flange portion is designed to fit between ignition coil and the valve cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 31, 1999
    Assignee: Cummins Engine Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Lawrence P. Tracy, Jonathan L. Umsted, Norman L. Jones, Bryan E. Hansome, Michael W. Alstrin
  • Patent number: 5927259
    Abstract: An ignition coil has a stress absorbing member with a coefficient of linear expansion which is smaller than a coefficient of linear expansion of a potting resin. The stress absorbing member faces along a circuit element of a mold ignition circuit and is buried in the potting resin. Thus, stress, caused by temperature change, which is applied to the circuit element of the mold ignition circuit from the potting resin can be reduced by the stress absorbing member. Therefore, peeling at a bonding portion of the circuit elements or at the crack can be prevented. Furthermore, the stress absorbing member is only facing along the circuit element mounting surface, and the mold ignition circuit is not wrapped by the stress absorbing member. Therefore, heat radiation from the mold ignition circuit is not suppressed by the stress absorbing member. The radiation performance of the ignition apparatus is thus improved, and the durability and credibility of the ignition circuit is improved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 27, 1999
    Assignee: Denso Corporation
    Inventors: Koji Ando, Noboru Nagase, Yasuo Tsuzuki
  • Patent number: 5915367
    Abstract: In order to reduce the bulk and weight of the upper igniter case division of an armor case, and to lower the center of gravity of the total apparatus so as to provide an igniter which is tough to oscillate, the igniter for the internal combustion engine has the armor case equipped with a coil compartment and igniter unit. The armor case has the igniter case having the coil case and connector. Furthermore, the coil compartment case is inserted in the plug hole of the internal combustion engine. The igniter unit is mounted in the igniter case. Furthermore, the igniter unit has a semiconductor device of a single substance silicon chip having integrated therein a semi-conductor for switching and a current limiting circuitry. The semi-conductor for switching consists of an insulated bipolar transistor (IGBT) or a power transistor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 29, 1999
    Assignees: Hitachi, Ltd., Hitachi Car Engineering Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hidetoshi Oishi, Noboru Sugiura, Kazutoshi Kobayashi, Hiroshi Watanabe, Katsuaki Fukatsu, Eiichiro Kondo, Yoichi Anzo, Masaru Ujigawa, Junichi Shimada, Kenji Nakabayashi
  • Patent number: 5890473
    Abstract: An ignition device 11 for a multi-cylinder internal combustion engine is to be designed so that it operates reliably even under conditions of vibration acceleration of the internal combustion engine. Ignition device 11 has, depending on the number of cylinders of the internal combustion engine, rod-shaped ignition coils 12. An end section 22 of each ignition coil 12 is formed by a part of a core 23 of ignition coil 12 that protrudes from a housing 20 of ignition coil 12. A damper 29 is mounted on the part of core 23. The other end section 21 of ignition coil 12 is formed by a high-voltage dome 27, which is mounted in a socket 39 made of elastic material and placed in a spark plug pit 15 of a cylinder head 13 of the internal combustion engine. Ignition device 11 is elastically held by fastening element 33 and secured at both end sections 21, 22 on cylinder head 13 of the internal combustion engine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 6, 1999
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Uwe Hammer, Dieter Betz, Karl-Heinz Nuebel
  • Patent number: 5875767
    Abstract: An ignition coil arrangement for internal combustion engines is embodied so that a housing of an individual ignition coil can be produced economically, and attachment of the ignition coil can be accomplished easily. The ignition coil is configured as a rod-type ignition coil, and the housing is of basically cylindrical shape, since a holding element for fastening the ignition coil is configured in the high-voltage output of the ignition coil itself. Assembly and retention of the ignition coil are accomplished by a direct threaded connection on the high-voltage terminal of a spark plug. For rotational immobilization, a primary terminal of the ignition coil is coupled to a fastenable mating plug as a joining member. The ignition coil arrangement is preferably used in motor vehicles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 2, 1999
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Norbert Bock, Lothar Detels, Nikolaus Hautmann
  • Patent number: 5842458
    Abstract: An improved sealing boot for a spark plug assembly is provided which includes a sealing and venting feature capable of preventing pressurized contaminants from reaching the spark plug by effectively sealing the spark plug mounting bore while permitting pressurized gas accumulating in the plug well to be vented to the engine overhead. The sealing and venting feature includes at least one annular sealing rib formed on the outer surface of the boot. The radial length and width of the sealing rib, and the resiliency of the material forming the rib, are selected to cause the rib to deflected outwardly an optimal degree, when the assembly is positioned in the bore, and to engage the bore wall with a sealing force so as to permit the desired sealing and venting. The optimal deflection causes the creation of an additional sealing force due to the pressure of fluid against the deflected portion of the rib thereby ensuring sealing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 1, 1998
    Assignee: Cummins Engine Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael W. Alstrin, Daniel L. Morin, C. Edward Morris
  • Patent number: 5771870
    Abstract: An ignition coil for an internal combustion engine, having a seal between the ignition coil and a plug hole of the engine. An air passage is provided only on a head portion and a pipe portion of the ignition coil to permit air to pass. Pressure change in the plug hole can be equalized with the atmosphere through the air passage. Therefore, it becomes easy to make the seal and to attach the seal to the ignition coil because the seal does not have any air passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 30, 1998
    Assignee: Denso Corporation
    Inventors: Yoshitaka Satou, Kazutoyo Oosuka, Masami Kojima, Yoshihiro Shimoide
  • Patent number: 5740787
    Abstract: An igniter circuit is placed inside the sealing container of an associated ignition device to be sealed. The circuit is accommodated behind a partition wall inside the sealing container. The igniter includes a metallic circuit case, a substrate attached to the inner bottom surface of the circuit case, circuit elements attached to the substrate to form an ignition circuit and silicone gel that fills the circuit case. Using the adhesive properties of the silicone gel, a sheet-like protective member is place over the silicone gel to face the partition wall. The protective member may be made, for example, of aramid paper. The protective member is preferably adhesive to silicone gel, can contain gas (air) and is elastic. When the sealing container is filled with insulating resin, a portion of the insulating resin flows to the igniter from an opening of the partition wall. At this point, the protective member protects and separates the silicone gel from the inflowing insulating resin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 21, 1998
    Assignee: Denso Corporation
    Inventor: Koji Ando
  • Patent number: 5727534
    Abstract: A misfire detecting device for a multi-cylinder internal combustion engine is provided. The misfire detecting device comprises high voltage pulse producing means for producing, after spark discharge of a spark plug, a high voltage pulse which is not so high as to cause the spark plug to discharge, voltage applying means for applying the high voltage pulse to a conductive path connecting between the secondary winding of the ignition coil to the spark plug, by way of a reverse current preventing diode and a leakage preventing diode for preventing intrusion of the high voltage for ignition, voltage dividing means for dividing a voltage at the junction between the reverse current preventing diode and the leakage preventing diode to obtain a divided voltage thereat, and misfire detecting means for detecting a misfire on the basis of a decay characteristic of the divided voltage obtained after application of the high voltage pulse.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 17, 1998
    Assignee: NGK Spark Plug Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Noriaki Kondo, Hiroshi Inagaki
  • Patent number: 5715788
    Abstract: An integrated fuel injector and ignitor assembly is provided which includes an injector body, a fuel control valve and an ignition device. The components are packaged to create a compact assembly for positioning within an injector mounting bore and particularly in a mounting bore of an existing diesel engine. The assembly may include a fuel reservoir for accumulating fuel for injection so as to stabilize the injection pressure. Also, the ignition device may include an ignition coil mounted on the injector body and a replaceable ignitor electrode cartridge mounted on an opposite end of the injector body to permit simple, cost effective replacement of the electrodes/spark plug.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 10, 1998
    Assignee: Cummins Engine Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Yul J. Tarr, Donald J. Benson, Gary L. Hunter
  • Patent number: 5685282
    Abstract: An ignition device for an internal combustion engine, comprising, a spark plug 7 including a high voltage terminal 8, an ignition coil 1 for generating a high voltage to be supplied to the spark plug, and adapter assembly 19a for electrically connecting the ignition coil to the high voltage terminal of the spark plug, said adapter assembly having a support sleeve 20 for accommodating and supporting the high voltage terminal of the spark plug against a transverse movement of the high voltage terminal. The support sleeve may be a continuous extension, a metal tube of the adapter assembly. The assembly may also comprises a wear resisting material which may be an elastic member, a metal member. An electrical connector for use in such ignition device is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 11, 1997
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Shigemi Murata, Mitsuru Koiwa
  • Patent number: 5682865
    Abstract: An electrical connector connecting a spark plug to an ignition coil comprising electrically insulating caps each having a cylindrical engaging surface adapted to be attached to the spark plug and the ignition coil. An electrically insulating sheath is attached and engaged with the engaging surfaces of the insulating caps at the engaging surfaces at its opposite ends so that at least one cylindrical engaging interface is defined therebetween. An electrical conductor is supported by and extended through the insulating sheath for electrically connecting the ignition coil and the high voltage terminal of the spark plug to each other. The electrical connector also comprises an electrically insulating structure, disposed in the engaging interface between the engaging surfaces of the caps and the sheath, for providing additional electrical insulation in the engaging interface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 4, 1997
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Toshio Maekawa, Shigemi Murata, Mitsuru Koiwa
  • Patent number: 5669367
    Abstract: In an ignition apparatus for an internal combustion engine including a first cover 1A composed of an insulating material, fixed to a cylinder head and having plug holes 6, ignition coils 20A inserted into the plug holes 6 and igniting a mixed gas in cylinders and a second cover composed of an insulating material and covering the ignition coils 20A, the ignition coils 20A are fixed by means of being held between the first cover 1A and a second cover 11A. With this arrangement, the total height of the ignition apparatus can be lowered as well as the center of gravity of the apparatus is located at a low position to improve a vibration resistant property.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 23, 1997
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Nobuyuki Sawazaki, Shigemi Murata, Mitsuru Koiwa
  • Patent number: 5651352
    Abstract: A distributor for internal combustion engines which includes a connector for electrically coupling a rotation signal detector and an engine control unit and a connector for electrically coupling an ignition coil and the engine control unit, the distributor being constructed to be able to improve working efficiency and productivity during assembly and handling easiness during maintenance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 29, 1997
    Assignees: Hitachi, Ltd., Hitachi Automotive Engineering Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Takao Terakado, Masaru Ujigawa, Toshiaki Kaminaga
  • Patent number: 5628298
    Abstract: In a plug hole cap of an ignition apparatus for an internal combustion engine, the plug hole cap has a high water resistant characteristic with respect to the plug hole, and is manufactured in low cost. The ignition apparatus includes a cylinder head cover for fixing an ignition coil, an ignition plug stored in a plug hole formed in the cylinder head cover, a plug hole cap for closing an upper portion of the plug hole and an air bleeding hole penetrating the plug hole cap, for communicating the plug hole with the atmosphere. In particular, a water resistant wall covers at least an outside of a peripheral portion of an air bleeding hole outlet of the plug hole cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 13, 1997
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Shigemi Murata