CA1230373A - Ignition transformer and spark plug cover assembly - Google Patents
Ignition transformer and spark plug cover assemblyInfo
- Publication number
- CA1230373A CA1230373A CA000447222A CA447222A CA1230373A CA 1230373 A CA1230373 A CA 1230373A CA 000447222 A CA000447222 A CA 000447222A CA 447222 A CA447222 A CA 447222A CA 1230373 A CA1230373 A CA 1230373A
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- bobbin
- ignition
- transformer
- spark plug
- ignition transformer
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired
Links
Classifications
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01F—MAGNETS; INDUCTANCES; TRANSFORMERS; SELECTION OF MATERIALS FOR THEIR MAGNETIC PROPERTIES
- H01F38/00—Adaptations of transformers or inductances for specific applications or functions
- H01F38/12—Ignition, e.g. for IC engines
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01T—SPARK GAPS; OVERVOLTAGE ARRESTERS USING SPARK GAPS; SPARKING PLUGS; CORONA DEVICES; GENERATING IONS TO BE INTRODUCED INTO NON-ENCLOSED GASES
- H01T13/00—Sparking plugs
- H01T13/02—Details
- H01T13/04—Means providing electrical connection to sparking plugs
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01T—SPARK GAPS; OVERVOLTAGE ARRESTERS USING SPARK GAPS; SPARKING PLUGS; CORONA DEVICES; GENERATING IONS TO BE INTRODUCED INTO NON-ENCLOSED GASES
- H01T13/00—Sparking plugs
- H01T13/40—Sparking plugs structurally combined with other devices
- H01T13/44—Sparking plugs structurally combined with other devices with transformers, e.g. for high-frequency ignition
Abstract
ABSTRACT OF THE DISCLOSURE
An ignition transformer and spark plug cover assembly adapted to be mounted on an internal combustion engine for the application of ignition signals from an ignition circuit to a respective engine spark plug. The assembly comprises connectors which are secured to an engine close to respective spark plugs. A transformer assembly, including an ignition transformer, is mechanically connected to and supported by the connectors. The ignition circuit is connected to the ignition transformer through low tension conductors. A high tension conduction electrically connects the ignition transformer with a respective spark plug through a spark plug cover member.
An ignition transformer and spark plug cover assembly adapted to be mounted on an internal combustion engine for the application of ignition signals from an ignition circuit to a respective engine spark plug. The assembly comprises connectors which are secured to an engine close to respective spark plugs. A transformer assembly, including an ignition transformer, is mechanically connected to and supported by the connectors. The ignition circuit is connected to the ignition transformer through low tension conductors. A high tension conduction electrically connects the ignition transformer with a respective spark plug through a spark plug cover member.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Field of the Invention:
The present invention relates in general to auto-motive ignition systems, and more particularly to an ignition transformer and spark plug cover assembly for use in internal combustion engines.
Description of the Prior Art:
- Conventional ignition systems for internal combus-tion engines have proven themselves to be reliable and adequate for many years. In recent times these systems have been upgraded by means of various electronic switching apparata. However, even with the addition of electronic apparata, the systems remain very similar in operation to the conventional electromechanical '''
Field of the Invention:
The present invention relates in general to auto-motive ignition systems, and more particularly to an ignition transformer and spark plug cover assembly for use in internal combustion engines.
Description of the Prior Art:
- Conventional ignition systems for internal combus-tion engines have proven themselves to be reliable and adequate for many years. In recent times these systems have been upgraded by means of various electronic switching apparata. However, even with the addition of electronic apparata, the systems remain very similar in operation to the conventional electromechanical '''
-2-systems. For example, current is introduced to an ignition transformer primary winding coil from a battery through a switch, such as a transistor. The energy of the ignition current supplied via the switch is accumulated as magnetic energy and discharged through a secondary (high voltage) winding coil across the electrodes of a spark plug.
Modern engines are required to meet a multitude of ever-tightening standards regarding the quantity and qualit~ of exhaust emissions. In order to meet these requirements, engine manufacturers have resorted to producing engines which operate under very lean fuel-to-air mixtures and engines which employ strati-fied charge or turbulent flow technology. Lean burning engines require increased spark duration for proper operation~ This is accomplished in the conventional systems by increasing the open circuit spark voltage.
However, increasing the voltage results in an increase in the amplitude as well as the duration of the spark current which greatly decreases the life of the spark plugs. In turbulent flow-type systems, the flow of the charge within the individual cylinders of the engine tends to blow out or ex-tinguish the spark plug arc prematurely thereby decreasing the duration of the spark which is detrimental to proper ignition.
~2~3~
Another problem inherent in conventional designs is that they generally use a common high-voltage gener-ator in the form of a single ignition coil for all the-spark plugs in the engine. The high voltage from the single coil is then distributed to the various plugs by means of a rotary high voltage switch or distributer and a system of high voltage cables. The distribution i and hlgh voltage cables are well-known to be frequent ( sources of problems and thus are the weak links in the conventional system. --SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
-Accordingly, one object of this invention is to provide a novel AC igni-tion system wherein the duration of ignition can be increased over that of a conven-tional system without decreasing the life of the spark plugs.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a novel AC ignition system which eliminates the need for a high voltage distribution system.
Still another object is to provide a novel igni-tion system wherein a separate high voltage generator is provided for each spark plug in the engineO
Yet another objective is to provide a novel igni-tion transformer and spark plug cover assembly capable of being securely mounted on an engine head immediately adjacent a respective spark plugO
Modern engines are required to meet a multitude of ever-tightening standards regarding the quantity and qualit~ of exhaust emissions. In order to meet these requirements, engine manufacturers have resorted to producing engines which operate under very lean fuel-to-air mixtures and engines which employ strati-fied charge or turbulent flow technology. Lean burning engines require increased spark duration for proper operation~ This is accomplished in the conventional systems by increasing the open circuit spark voltage.
However, increasing the voltage results in an increase in the amplitude as well as the duration of the spark current which greatly decreases the life of the spark plugs. In turbulent flow-type systems, the flow of the charge within the individual cylinders of the engine tends to blow out or ex-tinguish the spark plug arc prematurely thereby decreasing the duration of the spark which is detrimental to proper ignition.
~2~3~
Another problem inherent in conventional designs is that they generally use a common high-voltage gener-ator in the form of a single ignition coil for all the-spark plugs in the engine. The high voltage from the single coil is then distributed to the various plugs by means of a rotary high voltage switch or distributer and a system of high voltage cables. The distribution i and hlgh voltage cables are well-known to be frequent ( sources of problems and thus are the weak links in the conventional system. --SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
-Accordingly, one object of this invention is to provide a novel AC igni-tion system wherein the duration of ignition can be increased over that of a conven-tional system without decreasing the life of the spark plugs.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a novel AC ignition system which eliminates the need for a high voltage distribution system.
Still another object is to provide a novel igni-tion system wherein a separate high voltage generator is provided for each spark plug in the engineO
Yet another objective is to provide a novel igni-tion transformer and spark plug cover assembly capable of being securely mounted on an engine head immediately adjacent a respective spark plugO
3~
Another object of this invention is to provide an ignition system employing a novel transformer and spark plug cover assembly of the above-noted type whereby it is possible to reduce the size of the ignition coil and yet maintain adequate energy discharge across the spark plug electrodes.
Yet another object is to provide a novel AC igni-tion system which produces an alternating current and therefore an intermittent spark within the spark plug~ In such an AC system, the duration of the igni-tion can be greatly increased over that of the conven-tional systems without a corresponding decrease in spark plug life. Also, since the total ignition com-prises a plurality of short intermittent sparks, the blow-out problems of turbulent flow engines are greatly reduced.
Still a further object of this invention is to provide a novel ignition system which overcomes the difficulties inherent in the conventional systems uti-lizing a common high voltage generator by providing an essentially independent high voltage generator system for each spark plug in the engine.
These and other objects are achieved or facili-tated in accordance with the invention by providing a new and improved ignition transformer and spark plug cover for an internal combustion engine, wherein -5- ~3~3 separate ignition transformers are mounted in a respec-tive such assembly and each assembly is mounted on an engine head immediately adjacent a respective spark plug and electrically connected thereto. This eliminates most of the high voltage wiring, as well as the distributor of the conventional ignition system In a preferred embodiment, the assembly of the invention includes a mounting base member adapted to be fixedly fastened to the engine head, wherein the base member includes connector receptacles for making elec-trical connection thereto, a connector member mounted on said base member and having connector contacts mat-ing with respective receptacles of the base member, a transformer assembly including an ignition transformer mechanically connected to and supported by the connec-tor member, and a cover member adapted for making elec-trical connection to a respective spark plug, wherein the cover member is electrically connected to the igni-tion transformer by means of a short length high tension conductor supported by the transformer assembly.
According to a further broad aspect of the present invention, there is provided an ignition trans-former and spark plug cover assembly adap-ted for mounting on an internal combustion engine for application of ignition signals from an ignition circuit to a respective -6- ~3~
engine spark plug. The assembly comprises a connector means fixedly fastened to the engine in close proximity to said respective spark plug. A transformer assembly, including an ignition transformer, is mechanically con-nected to and supported by the connector means. Electri-; cal connection means, including low tension conductors, is provided for interconnecting the ignition circuit to the ignition transformer. A high tension conductor electrically interconnects the ignition transformer with a respective spark plug through a spark plug cover member associated with a respective spark plug.
According to a still further broad aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of fabricating an igni-tion transformer and spark plug cover assembly adapted for mounting on an internal combustion engine for application of ignition signals from an ignition circuit to a respective engine spark plug, wherein the ignition transformer and spark plug cover assembly is formed at least of connector means adapted to be electri-cally connected to the ignition circuit by means of low tension conductors and fixedly fastened to the engine in close proximity to the respective spark plug. A trans-former assembly is mechanically connected to and supported by the connector means and includes an ignition transformer and an insulating casing surrounding the ignition trans-former. A cover member is adapted for making electrical connection with the respective spark plug and includes a high tension conductor connected to the ignition trans-, -6a-former. The transformer assembly further includes a first bobbin having a secondary winding wound thereon and having a central bore in which a core member is disposed. A second bobbin surrounds the first bobbin and the secondary winding. The second bobbin has a primary winding wound thereon. The method comprises molding the first bobbin and winding the secondary wind-; ing onto the first bobbin. The core is then inserted into the bore and the second bobbin is molded onto the first bobbin. The primary winding is then wound on thesecond bobbin and the-insulating casing is molded in surrounding relation to the first and second bobbins.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
A more complete appreciation of the invention and many of the attendant advantages thereof will be readily obtained as the same becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in connection with the accompanying drawings illustrating an example of a preferred embodiment of the invention, wherein:
FIGURE 1 is a side view of the ignition trans-former and spark plug cover assembly of the invention adap~ed for mounting on an engine block (this Figure is out of sequence and appears on the sheet with Figures 6-8);
3~
FIGURE 2 is an enlarged~partially sectioned view of FIGURE 1 showing the assembly according to -the invention, E'IGURE 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along the lines 3-3 shown in FIGURE 2 of the connector member of the assembly according to the invention' FIGURE 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along the lines 4-4 shown in FIGURE 5 of the base member of the assembly according to the invention' FIGURE 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along the lines 5-5 shown in FIGURE 4 of the base member of the assembly according to the invention' FIGURE 6 is a perspective view of the base member of the assembly according to the invention, FIGURE 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 7 7 shown in FIGURE 2 of the assembly according to the invention' and FIGURE 8 is a circuit diagram illustrating the electrical connections implemented by means of the assembly according to the invention.
DESCRIPTION OF T~IE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
Referring now to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate identical or corresponding parts throughout the several-views, and more particu larly to FIGURE 1 thereof~ in FIGURE 1 the assembly 10 of the invention is shown as including a base member -8- ~%3V~3 100 securely fas-tened to an engine block 12, a connec-tor rnember 200 mounted on the base member 100, a trans-former assembly 300 mounted on the connector assembly 200, and a cover 400, including a high tension conduc-tor 402 for making connection to the transformer assembly 300 and a cover member 404 shown making an electrical connection to a conventional spark ~lug 14 by means of a connector member (not shown~ making electrical connection to a terminal (not shown) of the spark plug 14.
In FIGURE 2, the assembly of the invention is shown in more detail~ The high tension conductor 402 is shown as including an inner conductor 406 surrounded by an insulating layer 408. Conductor 402 is o~ conventional design.
Transformer assembly 300 includes an ignition transformer 302 including a secondary winding 304 mounted on a first bobbin 306 and a primary winding 308 mounted on a second bobbin 310, The secondary winding 304 as shown in FIGURE 2 is implemented in nine series connected sections. Bobbins 306 include a central bore 312 in which is disposed a core 314.
Electrical connection is made to the secondary winding 304 on one side thereof to the conductor 406 by means of pin 316. The other side of secondary winding 304 is electrically connected to a contact 204b of connector member 200 by means of pin 318.
-9- ~ ~3~3'7~
Fabrication of transformer assembly 300 begins with molding of the bobbin 306 of a thermoplastic material such as epoxy resin, polytetrafluoroethylene (TEFLON ~, etc. Pins 316, 318 are integrally molded into the bobbin 306. Secondary winding 304 is then wound in plural sections on the bobbin 306 and spot welded to the pins 316, 318. Core 314 is then inserted in the bore of the bobbin 306. Thereafter, the second bobbin 310 is integrally molded around the first bobbin 306 and core 314, with a pair of pins 319, 320 formed therein for making spot welded electrical connection to the primary winding 308 which is subsequently wound around the bobbin 310. Thereafter, the conductor 406 of the high tension wire 402 is interconnected to the pin 316 and a plastic case 322 is molded around the ignition transformer 302.
FIGURES 2 and 3 show the structure of the connecting member 200 and the interconnection thereof with the transformer assembly 300 as above described.
Connector member 200 includes a molded plastic housing 202 defining hollow cavities 206, 208 separated by a midsection 210. Integrally molded within the mid-section 210 and supported thereby are three contact members 204a, 204b~ and 204c. Contact 204a is connected to pin 319 connected to one side of the primary winding 308 of the ignition transformer ~3~3~
302 and con-tact 204c is connected to pin 320 connected to the opposite side of the primary winding 308.
Contact 318 is connected to one side of the secondary winding via pin 318. Although FIGURE 3 indicates that pins 318, 319 and 320 are connected respec-tively to contacts 204a~ 204b and 204c by means of a solder joint, it should be understood that this interconnec-tion can otherwise be made by means of conventional male/female pin engagement.
As is evident from FIGURES 3 and 7, trans-former assembly 300 and connector member 200 are each provided with opposed flange members 326a, 326b and 210a, 210b, respectively, by which transformer assembly 300 and conneetor member 200 are mechanically interconnected.
This interconnection may be made by providing either the flanges of the transformer assembly 300 or the connecting member 200 with a threaded hole and the other flanges with a mating opposing hole and screwing the respective opposed flanges together. Otherwise ?
opposed holes can be drilled through the opposed flanges and the flanges interconneeted by means of a nut, bolt and lock washer assembly, not shown.
FIGURES 4, 5 and 6 illustrate the base member 100 of the present invention. Base member 100 is formed of an integrally molded housing 102 having receptacle members 104a, 104b and 104c which provides for mating engagement with contac~s 204a, 204b and 204c, respectively. The housing 102 defines three hollow cavities 106a, 106b and 106c in which respective ends of the receptacles 104a, 104b and 104c protrude, and wherein mating engagement of the male contacts 204a, ¦ 204b and 204c with one end of a respective female receptacle 104a, 104b and 104c is accomplished. The other ends of receptacles 104a and 104c are connected to an ingition circuit 500 as shown in FIGURE 8, while the other end of receptaele 104b is grounded to the engine body 12 as shown in FIGURES 4 and 5.
The ignition circuit 500 may be any of the I ignition eireuits shown in U.S. Patent No. 4,382,430 issued on May 10, 1983 and U.S. Paten-t No. 4,446,842 issued on May 8, 1984. The eonneetions from the ignition circuit 500 to the base member reeeptaeles 104a and 104e need not be made by a high tension eonneetion, according to the invention, since the signals on these wires are rela-tively low voltage and low eurrent.
As is also shown in FIGURES 4 and 6, the base member 100 is fastened to the engine bloek by ¦ means of flange members 110, 11~, eaeh having holes formed therein by whieh the flange members 110 and 112, as well as the base member 100, can be screw fastened to the engine body by means of screws 114, llÇ. Optionally, a rubber boot (not shown) can be -12~ 3 provided surrounding the flange members llU, 112 and the lower portion of the base member 100 as shown in FIGURE 4~ As shown in FIGURE 6, a protective covering 118 may be provided to protect the interconnection between the conductors from the ignition circuit 500 to the receptacles 104a, 104c.
The above-described ignition transformer and spark plug cover assembly is particulary advantageous in providing a secure mechanical mounting of an ignition transformer in immediate proximity to a respective spark plug, whereby the ignition trans-former is relatively uninfluenced by engine tempera-ture. Furthermore, in view of the secure mounting provided by the several screw fastenings of the invention, the above-disclosed assembly is unaffected by engine vibration. Further, by providing an assembly which can be mounted in immediate proximity to a respective spark plug it is possible to employ relatively long length low tension conductors for interconnecting the ignition circuit with each transformer, while employing only relatively short length high tension conductors for application of the ignition voltage and current -to the spark plug.
Obviously~ numerous modifications and variations of the present invention are possi.ble in -13- 1~30~
light of the above teachings. For example, the mounting and connection teachings of the invention can readily be adapted to replace the transformer 302 above-described with the ignition transformers disclosed in my above cross-referenced related applications. It is therefore to be understood that within the scope of the appended claims, the invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described herein.
Another object of this invention is to provide an ignition system employing a novel transformer and spark plug cover assembly of the above-noted type whereby it is possible to reduce the size of the ignition coil and yet maintain adequate energy discharge across the spark plug electrodes.
Yet another object is to provide a novel AC igni-tion system which produces an alternating current and therefore an intermittent spark within the spark plug~ In such an AC system, the duration of the igni-tion can be greatly increased over that of the conven-tional systems without a corresponding decrease in spark plug life. Also, since the total ignition com-prises a plurality of short intermittent sparks, the blow-out problems of turbulent flow engines are greatly reduced.
Still a further object of this invention is to provide a novel ignition system which overcomes the difficulties inherent in the conventional systems uti-lizing a common high voltage generator by providing an essentially independent high voltage generator system for each spark plug in the engine.
These and other objects are achieved or facili-tated in accordance with the invention by providing a new and improved ignition transformer and spark plug cover for an internal combustion engine, wherein -5- ~3~3 separate ignition transformers are mounted in a respec-tive such assembly and each assembly is mounted on an engine head immediately adjacent a respective spark plug and electrically connected thereto. This eliminates most of the high voltage wiring, as well as the distributor of the conventional ignition system In a preferred embodiment, the assembly of the invention includes a mounting base member adapted to be fixedly fastened to the engine head, wherein the base member includes connector receptacles for making elec-trical connection thereto, a connector member mounted on said base member and having connector contacts mat-ing with respective receptacles of the base member, a transformer assembly including an ignition transformer mechanically connected to and supported by the connec-tor member, and a cover member adapted for making elec-trical connection to a respective spark plug, wherein the cover member is electrically connected to the igni-tion transformer by means of a short length high tension conductor supported by the transformer assembly.
According to a further broad aspect of the present invention, there is provided an ignition trans-former and spark plug cover assembly adap-ted for mounting on an internal combustion engine for application of ignition signals from an ignition circuit to a respective -6- ~3~
engine spark plug. The assembly comprises a connector means fixedly fastened to the engine in close proximity to said respective spark plug. A transformer assembly, including an ignition transformer, is mechanically con-nected to and supported by the connector means. Electri-; cal connection means, including low tension conductors, is provided for interconnecting the ignition circuit to the ignition transformer. A high tension conductor electrically interconnects the ignition transformer with a respective spark plug through a spark plug cover member associated with a respective spark plug.
According to a still further broad aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of fabricating an igni-tion transformer and spark plug cover assembly adapted for mounting on an internal combustion engine for application of ignition signals from an ignition circuit to a respective engine spark plug, wherein the ignition transformer and spark plug cover assembly is formed at least of connector means adapted to be electri-cally connected to the ignition circuit by means of low tension conductors and fixedly fastened to the engine in close proximity to the respective spark plug. A trans-former assembly is mechanically connected to and supported by the connector means and includes an ignition transformer and an insulating casing surrounding the ignition trans-former. A cover member is adapted for making electrical connection with the respective spark plug and includes a high tension conductor connected to the ignition trans-, -6a-former. The transformer assembly further includes a first bobbin having a secondary winding wound thereon and having a central bore in which a core member is disposed. A second bobbin surrounds the first bobbin and the secondary winding. The second bobbin has a primary winding wound thereon. The method comprises molding the first bobbin and winding the secondary wind-; ing onto the first bobbin. The core is then inserted into the bore and the second bobbin is molded onto the first bobbin. The primary winding is then wound on thesecond bobbin and the-insulating casing is molded in surrounding relation to the first and second bobbins.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
A more complete appreciation of the invention and many of the attendant advantages thereof will be readily obtained as the same becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in connection with the accompanying drawings illustrating an example of a preferred embodiment of the invention, wherein:
FIGURE 1 is a side view of the ignition trans-former and spark plug cover assembly of the invention adap~ed for mounting on an engine block (this Figure is out of sequence and appears on the sheet with Figures 6-8);
3~
FIGURE 2 is an enlarged~partially sectioned view of FIGURE 1 showing the assembly according to -the invention, E'IGURE 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along the lines 3-3 shown in FIGURE 2 of the connector member of the assembly according to the invention' FIGURE 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along the lines 4-4 shown in FIGURE 5 of the base member of the assembly according to the invention' FIGURE 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along the lines 5-5 shown in FIGURE 4 of the base member of the assembly according to the invention' FIGURE 6 is a perspective view of the base member of the assembly according to the invention, FIGURE 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 7 7 shown in FIGURE 2 of the assembly according to the invention' and FIGURE 8 is a circuit diagram illustrating the electrical connections implemented by means of the assembly according to the invention.
DESCRIPTION OF T~IE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
Referring now to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate identical or corresponding parts throughout the several-views, and more particu larly to FIGURE 1 thereof~ in FIGURE 1 the assembly 10 of the invention is shown as including a base member -8- ~%3V~3 100 securely fas-tened to an engine block 12, a connec-tor rnember 200 mounted on the base member 100, a trans-former assembly 300 mounted on the connector assembly 200, and a cover 400, including a high tension conduc-tor 402 for making connection to the transformer assembly 300 and a cover member 404 shown making an electrical connection to a conventional spark ~lug 14 by means of a connector member (not shown~ making electrical connection to a terminal (not shown) of the spark plug 14.
In FIGURE 2, the assembly of the invention is shown in more detail~ The high tension conductor 402 is shown as including an inner conductor 406 surrounded by an insulating layer 408. Conductor 402 is o~ conventional design.
Transformer assembly 300 includes an ignition transformer 302 including a secondary winding 304 mounted on a first bobbin 306 and a primary winding 308 mounted on a second bobbin 310, The secondary winding 304 as shown in FIGURE 2 is implemented in nine series connected sections. Bobbins 306 include a central bore 312 in which is disposed a core 314.
Electrical connection is made to the secondary winding 304 on one side thereof to the conductor 406 by means of pin 316. The other side of secondary winding 304 is electrically connected to a contact 204b of connector member 200 by means of pin 318.
-9- ~ ~3~3'7~
Fabrication of transformer assembly 300 begins with molding of the bobbin 306 of a thermoplastic material such as epoxy resin, polytetrafluoroethylene (TEFLON ~, etc. Pins 316, 318 are integrally molded into the bobbin 306. Secondary winding 304 is then wound in plural sections on the bobbin 306 and spot welded to the pins 316, 318. Core 314 is then inserted in the bore of the bobbin 306. Thereafter, the second bobbin 310 is integrally molded around the first bobbin 306 and core 314, with a pair of pins 319, 320 formed therein for making spot welded electrical connection to the primary winding 308 which is subsequently wound around the bobbin 310. Thereafter, the conductor 406 of the high tension wire 402 is interconnected to the pin 316 and a plastic case 322 is molded around the ignition transformer 302.
FIGURES 2 and 3 show the structure of the connecting member 200 and the interconnection thereof with the transformer assembly 300 as above described.
Connector member 200 includes a molded plastic housing 202 defining hollow cavities 206, 208 separated by a midsection 210. Integrally molded within the mid-section 210 and supported thereby are three contact members 204a, 204b~ and 204c. Contact 204a is connected to pin 319 connected to one side of the primary winding 308 of the ignition transformer ~3~3~
302 and con-tact 204c is connected to pin 320 connected to the opposite side of the primary winding 308.
Contact 318 is connected to one side of the secondary winding via pin 318. Although FIGURE 3 indicates that pins 318, 319 and 320 are connected respec-tively to contacts 204a~ 204b and 204c by means of a solder joint, it should be understood that this interconnec-tion can otherwise be made by means of conventional male/female pin engagement.
As is evident from FIGURES 3 and 7, trans-former assembly 300 and connector member 200 are each provided with opposed flange members 326a, 326b and 210a, 210b, respectively, by which transformer assembly 300 and conneetor member 200 are mechanically interconnected.
This interconnection may be made by providing either the flanges of the transformer assembly 300 or the connecting member 200 with a threaded hole and the other flanges with a mating opposing hole and screwing the respective opposed flanges together. Otherwise ?
opposed holes can be drilled through the opposed flanges and the flanges interconneeted by means of a nut, bolt and lock washer assembly, not shown.
FIGURES 4, 5 and 6 illustrate the base member 100 of the present invention. Base member 100 is formed of an integrally molded housing 102 having receptacle members 104a, 104b and 104c which provides for mating engagement with contac~s 204a, 204b and 204c, respectively. The housing 102 defines three hollow cavities 106a, 106b and 106c in which respective ends of the receptacles 104a, 104b and 104c protrude, and wherein mating engagement of the male contacts 204a, ¦ 204b and 204c with one end of a respective female receptacle 104a, 104b and 104c is accomplished. The other ends of receptacles 104a and 104c are connected to an ingition circuit 500 as shown in FIGURE 8, while the other end of receptaele 104b is grounded to the engine body 12 as shown in FIGURES 4 and 5.
The ignition circuit 500 may be any of the I ignition eireuits shown in U.S. Patent No. 4,382,430 issued on May 10, 1983 and U.S. Paten-t No. 4,446,842 issued on May 8, 1984. The eonneetions from the ignition circuit 500 to the base member reeeptaeles 104a and 104e need not be made by a high tension eonneetion, according to the invention, since the signals on these wires are rela-tively low voltage and low eurrent.
As is also shown in FIGURES 4 and 6, the base member 100 is fastened to the engine bloek by ¦ means of flange members 110, 11~, eaeh having holes formed therein by whieh the flange members 110 and 112, as well as the base member 100, can be screw fastened to the engine body by means of screws 114, llÇ. Optionally, a rubber boot (not shown) can be -12~ 3 provided surrounding the flange members llU, 112 and the lower portion of the base member 100 as shown in FIGURE 4~ As shown in FIGURE 6, a protective covering 118 may be provided to protect the interconnection between the conductors from the ignition circuit 500 to the receptacles 104a, 104c.
The above-described ignition transformer and spark plug cover assembly is particulary advantageous in providing a secure mechanical mounting of an ignition transformer in immediate proximity to a respective spark plug, whereby the ignition trans-former is relatively uninfluenced by engine tempera-ture. Furthermore, in view of the secure mounting provided by the several screw fastenings of the invention, the above-disclosed assembly is unaffected by engine vibration. Further, by providing an assembly which can be mounted in immediate proximity to a respective spark plug it is possible to employ relatively long length low tension conductors for interconnecting the ignition circuit with each transformer, while employing only relatively short length high tension conductors for application of the ignition voltage and current -to the spark plug.
Obviously~ numerous modifications and variations of the present invention are possi.ble in -13- 1~30~
light of the above teachings. For example, the mounting and connection teachings of the invention can readily be adapted to replace the transformer 302 above-described with the ignition transformers disclosed in my above cross-referenced related applications. It is therefore to be understood that within the scope of the appended claims, the invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described herein.
Claims (10)
1. An ignition transformer and spark plug cover assembly adapted for mounting on an internal combustion engine for application of ignition signals from an igni-tion circuit to a respective engine spark plug, compris-ing:
connector means adapted to be electrically connected to said ignition circuit by means of low tension conductors and fixedly fastened to said engine in close proximity to said respective spark plug;
a transformer assembly, including an ignition transformer, mechanically connected to and supported by the connector means; and a cover member adapted for making electrical connection with a respective spark plug, comprising a high tension conductor connected to the ignition transformer.
connector means adapted to be electrically connected to said ignition circuit by means of low tension conductors and fixedly fastened to said engine in close proximity to said respective spark plug;
a transformer assembly, including an ignition transformer, mechanically connected to and supported by the connector means; and a cover member adapted for making electrical connection with a respective spark plug, comprising a high tension conductor connected to the ignition transformer.
2. An ignition transformer and spark plug assembly according to claim 1, wherein said connector means com-prises:
a base member adapted to be fixedly fastened to the engine, including connector receptacles for making electrical connection thereto, and a connector member mounted on said base member and having respective connector contacts mating with the base member connector receptacles.
a base member adapted to be fixedly fastened to the engine, including connector receptacles for making electrical connection thereto, and a connector member mounted on said base member and having respective connector contacts mating with the base member connector receptacles.
3. An ignition transformer and spark plug cover assembly according to claim 2, wherein said transformer assembly comprises:
contact means for making electrical connection between said ignition transformer and said connector contacts of said connector member.
contact means for making electrical connection between said ignition transformer and said connector contacts of said connector member.
4. An ignition transformer and cover assembly according to claim 3, wherein said transformer assembly comprises:
a first bobbin having a secondary winding wound thereon and having a central bore in which a core member is disposed;
a second bobbin molded onto said first bobbin and said secondary winding, said second bobbin having a primary winding wound thereon;
connector pins integrally molded in said first and second bobbins for making electrical connection to said secondary and primary windings; and an insulating casing molded in surrounding relation to said first and second bobbins.
a first bobbin having a secondary winding wound thereon and having a central bore in which a core member is disposed;
a second bobbin molded onto said first bobbin and said secondary winding, said second bobbin having a primary winding wound thereon;
connector pins integrally molded in said first and second bobbins for making electrical connection to said secondary and primary windings; and an insulating casing molded in surrounding relation to said first and second bobbins.
5. An ignition transformer and cover assembly according to claim 4, wherein said connector member comprises:
a housing having upper and lower hollow cavities separated by a central section;
plural contacts embedded in said central section and extending into said upper and lower hollow cavities;
wherein the extensions of said contacts into said upper hollow cavity are connected to the primary and secondary windings in said transformer assembly.
a housing having upper and lower hollow cavities separated by a central section;
plural contacts embedded in said central section and extending into said upper and lower hollow cavities;
wherein the extensions of said contacts into said upper hollow cavity are connected to the primary and secondary windings in said transformer assembly.
6. An ignition transformer and cover assembly according to claim 5, wherein said base member comprises:
an insulating housing having embedded therein plural connector receptacles, one for each of said con-tacts of said connector member, wherein one of said receptacles is adapted to be grounded to the engine.
an insulating housing having embedded therein plural connector receptacles, one for each of said con-tacts of said connector member, wherein one of said receptacles is adapted to be grounded to the engine.
7. An ignition transformer and cover assembly according to claim 1, wherein said transformer assembly comprises:
an insulating casing surrounding said ignition transformer.
an insulating casing surrounding said ignition transformer.
8. An ignition transformer and cover assembly according to claim 1, wherein said transformer assembly comprises:
a first bobbin having a secondary winding wound thereon and having a central bore in which a core member is disposed; and a second bobbin surrounding said first bobbin and said secondary winding, said second bobbin having a primary winding wound thereon.
a first bobbin having a secondary winding wound thereon and having a central bore in which a core member is disposed; and a second bobbin surrounding said first bobbin and said secondary winding, said second bobbin having a primary winding wound thereon.
9. An ignition transformer and cover assembly according to claim 8, wherein said first bobbin com-prises:
plural series connected sections in which said secondary winding is wound.
plural series connected sections in which said secondary winding is wound.
10. A method of fabricating an ignition transformer and spark plug cover assembly adapted for mounting on an internal combustion engine for application of ignition signals from an ignition circuit to a respective engine spark plug, wherein the ignition transformer and spark plug cover assembly is formed at least of connector means adapted to be electrically connected to the igni-tion circuit by means of low tension conductors and fixedly fastened to said engine in close proximity to said respective spark plug, a transformer assembly mechanically connected to and supported by the connector means and including an ignition transformer and an in-sulating casing surrounding the ignition transformer, and a cover member adapted for making electrical con-nection with said respective spark plug, including a high tension conductor connected to the ignition trans-former, and wherein the transformer assembly further includes a first bobbin having a secondary winding wound thereon and having a central bore in which a core member is disposed, and a second bobbin surrounding said first bobbin and said secondary winding, said second bobbin having a primary winding wound thereon, comprising the following steps:
molding of said first bobbin;
winding of said secondary winding onto said first bobbin;
inserting said core into said bore;
molding of said second bobbin onto said first bobbin;
winding of said primary winding onto said second bobbin; and molding of said insulating casing in surround-ing relation to said first and second bobbins.
molding of said first bobbin;
winding of said secondary winding onto said first bobbin;
inserting said core into said bore;
molding of said second bobbin onto said first bobbin;
winding of said primary winding onto said second bobbin; and molding of said insulating casing in surround-ing relation to said first and second bobbins.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US48918883A | 1983-04-27 | 1983-04-27 | |
| US489,188 | 1983-04-27 |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA1230373A true CA1230373A (en) | 1987-12-15 |
Family
ID=23942763
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000447222A Expired CA1230373A (en) | 1983-04-27 | 1984-02-10 | Ignition transformer and spark plug cover assembly |
Country Status (3)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| JP (1) | JPS59200407A (en) |
| CA (1) | CA1230373A (en) |
| DE (1) | DE3404064C2 (en) |
Families Citing this family (5)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JPS6368773A (en) * | 1986-09-10 | 1988-03-28 | Hitachi Ltd | Ignition coil for multicylinder internal combustion engine |
| DE3727458A1 (en) * | 1987-08-18 | 1989-03-02 | Bayerische Motoren Werke Ag | IGNITION UNIT FOR COMBUSTION ENGINES |
| DE3920080C2 (en) * | 1989-06-20 | 1994-08-04 | Audi Ag | Ignition device for an internal combustion engine |
| DE3930587A1 (en) * | 1989-09-13 | 1991-03-28 | Bosch Gmbh Robert | IGNITION COIL |
| EP0703588A1 (en) * | 1994-09-26 | 1996-03-27 | Nippondenso Co., Ltd. | Ignition coil |
Family Cites Families (4)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FR1327538A (en) * | 1962-06-30 | 1963-05-17 | Espanola Magnetos Fab | Voltage boosting coil for ignition of internal combustion engines |
| US3566202A (en) * | 1968-06-03 | 1971-02-23 | Chrysler Corp | Self-resonant ignition coil and system |
| DE7120221U (en) * | 1971-05-25 | 1971-08-19 | Siemens Ag | PLASTIC-COVERED SMALL TRANSFORMER |
| US3792694A (en) * | 1972-03-30 | 1974-02-19 | Stitt Spark Plug Co | Spark plug safety shield |
-
1984
- 1984-02-06 DE DE19843404064 patent/DE3404064C2/en not_active Expired
- 1984-02-10 CA CA000447222A patent/CA1230373A/en not_active Expired
- 1984-03-30 JP JP59064329A patent/JPS59200407A/en active Pending
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| DE3404064C2 (en) | 1986-04-10 |
| DE3404064A1 (en) | 1984-11-08 |
| JPS59200407A (en) | 1984-11-13 |
Similar Documents
| Publication | Publication Date | Title |
|---|---|---|
| US6556118B1 (en) | Separate mount ignition coil utilizing a progressive wound secondary winding | |
| US4706639A (en) | Integrated direct ignition module | |
| US5584704A (en) | Device for the common electrical contacting of a plurality of electrically excitable aggregates of internal combustion engines | |
| EP0902605B1 (en) | Discharge lamp lighting device | |
| US5959521A (en) | High-voltage transformer and a vehicle-lamp lighting-on device using the same | |
| US6094122A (en) | Mechanical locking connection for electric terminals | |
| US6178957B1 (en) | Pencil ignition coil assembly module | |
| KR100199300B1 (en) | Ignition coil unit for internal combustion engine | |
| US6724289B2 (en) | Ignition apparatus having feature for shielding the HV terminal | |
| CA1230373A (en) | Ignition transformer and spark plug cover assembly | |
| US5359982A (en) | Ignitor for an internal combustion engine | |
| US5296999A (en) | Igniter assembly | |
| US6348797B1 (en) | Combustion state detecting apparatus for internal combustion engine | |
| US4461264A (en) | Ignition transformer and spark plug cover assembly | |
| US6114933A (en) | Pencil ignition coil assembly module environmental shield | |
| US5781092A (en) | Ignition coil for an internal combustion engine | |
| EP1757804A2 (en) | Low profile ignition apparatus | |
| CN100507261C (en) | Electronic module for internal combustion engine ignition coil | |
| US6956457B2 (en) | Ignition coil core isolation | |
| US20030037745A1 (en) | Connection of wire to printed circuit board (PCB) | |
| US7004155B2 (en) | Ignition apparatus for internal combustion engine | |
| US6880539B2 (en) | Ignition apparatus for an internal combustion engine and a manufacturing method therefor | |
| US6718958B2 (en) | Ignition apparatus for an internal combustion engine | |
| US7049923B2 (en) | Ignition coil assembly utilizing a single internal floating shield buffered at one end | |
| JPH0233473A (en) | Plug cap for ignition coil |
Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| MKEX | Expiry |