CZ300538B6 - Spark plug - Google Patents

Abstract

In the present invention, there is disclosed a spark plug (10) including a central electrode (20), which direction is upwards in erected position, with a projection, having in its cross-section main dimension and height and an earth electrode (30). The earth electrode (30) has an elongated edge (34), which is longer than the main dimension of the central electrode (20), whereas the elongated edge (34) is placed in tangential relationship to cross-section of the projection of the upwards positioning central electrode (20) and has its lowest part by the highest part, or higher than the highest part of the central electrode (20).

Description

Spark plug

Technical field

FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to spark plugs for igniting a fuel charge in an internal combustion engine, and more particularly to an improved spark plug design which, compared to prior art spark plugs, increases ignition pressure, reduces fuel consumption per distance traveled, and reducing harmful exhaust emissions.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The prior art spark plugs are well known. These spark plugs include a central electrode and a ground electrode that is separate from the central electrode. If a sufficiently large voltage is applied through the gap, a spark jumps over the gap. This spark can be used to ignite the fuel mixture compressed inside the internal combustion engine.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,051,651 discloses a " cylindrical aperture " which is formed around a central electrode by shielding the outer ground electrode. U.S. Pat. No. 5,051,651 mentions that multiple "germs of ignition" are formed within this cylindrical opening. The grounding electrode has in all examples a "substantially concave inner surface corresponding to the radial front surface of the center electrode" - see paragraph 8, line 33. This creates a concentric curved surface having an inner radius equal to the "center electrode radius size" The electrode contact gap, ie the spark gap, may have the same value as the radius of the cylindrical bore ”- see paragraph 1, line 54).

In Fig. 13 of U.S. Pat. No. 5,051,651 and in the description of independent claim 18, the invention specifically draws attention to the surfaces on which the spark is formed, wherein "at least a portion of each inner perpendicular sides includes a concave surface with a curvature corresponding to center electrodes ”.

Since the sparks propagate along the shortest paths, from the center electrode to the ground electrode, the effective surfaces of U.S. Pat. No. 5,051,651 are similar to other concentric annular structures, such as U.S. Pat. Nos. 17,482,383, 1,942,242, 1,912,516, U.S. Pat. No. 5,430,346, U.S. Pat. No. 5,280,214, in which the grounding electrode is shaped by a corresponding radius centered on the same axis as the central electrode. U.S. Pat. No. 5,051,651 provides a concentric annular structure for the functional core, as with others.

The concentric ring construction provides no power advantage over a standard spark plug.

In U.S. Patent No. 5,612,586, the emphasis is on limiting the bend of the tip by 90 °, as is common with standard spark plugs.

These prior art patents also include some advanced features, but there is still a need for improved candle design that provides improved fuel efficiency and reduced pollutant emissions.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The above drawbacks of the prior art are overcome by a spark plug according to the invention for generating ignition sparks comprising, in an upright position, an upwardly directed central electrode with a protrusion having a major dimension and height in cross section, and further comprising

A grounding electrode, which is characterized in that the grounding electrode has an elongated edge that is longer than the main dimension of the central electrode and is located tangential to the cross-section of the upwardly facing central electrode, wherein the elongated edge of the ground electrode has the lowest the highest portion, or higher than the highest portion of the center electrode.

Furthermore, it is essential that the grounding electrode is formed by two elongated edges which merge at an apex point outside the cross-section of the protrusion of the central electrode.

It is also essential that the elongated edge is formed by two elongated edges of the center electrode, which merge at an apex point outside the cross-section of the protrusion of the center electrode.

Also, the fact that the elongated edge extends substantially directly is the essence of the spark plug of the present invention,

It is also essential that the center electrode has a rounding, wherein the elongated edge of the grounding electrode has a curvature that is greater than the rounding of the center electrode and which has a rounding center different from the centering point of the center electrode.

It is also essential that the central electrode has a central electrode edge, wherein the elongated edge is formed by at least substantially one straight elongated edge extending beyond the major dimension of the central electrode, wherein the substantially straight elongated edge is spaced from the electrode edge, and at least one straight the elongated edge lies at or above them, and which lies at or outside the peripheral protrusion of the central electrode edge, so that the central electrode edge and the at least one straight elongate edge are directed so that the central electrode edge and the at least one substantially straight elongate edge are formed on adjacent parts of the central electrode and the ground electrode in the ignition region.

It is also essential in the spark plug according to the invention that the elongated edge comprises at least one elongated edge spaced from the central electrode edge, wherein the at least one elongated edge lies exclusively at or above the highest portion of the central electrode edge and wherein at least one elongated edge lies exclusively at or outside the peripheral protrusion of the central electrode edge and wherein the elongated edge has portions that are not concentric to the central electrode edge so that the central electrode edge and the at least one elongate edge are directed so that the edges are formed on adjacent portions of the central electrode and grounding an electrode in the ignition region, as well as that the ground electrode comprises at least one ground electrode that defines one elongate edge, wherein the elongated edge is not concentric to the center electrode and is delta. the main electrode dimension, wherein the at least one elongated edge lies outside the protrusion and the lower portion of the ground electrode is at or above the highest portion of the central electrode, so that the central electrode edge and the at least one elongate edge face each other so that the edges are formed on each other adjacent portions of the center electrode and the ground electrode in the ignition region, or that the upwardly centered electrode has a substantially circular cross-section and the ground electrode has an elongated edge that is at least as long as the center electrode diameter and extends above and outside the protrusion; or a portion of the center electrode or above.

It is also essential that the elongated edge is one of two elongated edges, each tangential to the cross section of the upwardly facing central electrode, wherein the elongated edges form one intermediate apex outside the projection, or that the ground electrode is box-shaped. and having an end section diverging into two prongs, each comprising a first section and a second section, the first sections being divergent with each other and the second sections converging with each other and having each free end, wherein the two spikes are connected and their sections lie in four tangents relative to and the intermediate electrode has at least one elongated and non-circular elongated edge, wherein the central electrode edge and the ground electrode edge are non-concentric, both edges oriented towards each other to form it. skry.

-2GB 300538 B6

It is also essential that the ground electrode has a main portion extending above the central electrode and divided into two prongs which are arranged in a partially box-like shape and which comprises four stretched edge portions oriented tangentially to the circular edge contour of the central electrode, or it comprises an apex point located outside said edge contour, or that the apex point is at the divergence point of the two prongs and that the first and third sections are parallel and the second and fourth sections are parallel.

Also, the ground electrode comprises a first end and a second end joined together at the apex, wherein the first end, second end, and apex of the ground electrode are disposed at or outside the central electrode protrusion such that the first end or second end of the ground electrode further it lies close to the center electrode and the outer edge of the center electrode is close to the earth electrode to allow sparking between the earth electrode and the center electrode, or that the elongated edge is substantially straight and spaced from the edge of the center electrode and is located only at or above the highest portion of the center electrode edge, and the at least one substantially straight elongated edge is also located only at or outside the cross-section of the central electrode protrusion, such that the center electrode edge and the straight elongate edge are formed on each other adjacent portions of the center electrode and the ground electrode in the ignition region.

It is also essential that the grounding electrode has defined at least three tangential relationships with respect to the cross section of the protrusion of the central electrode, or at least four tangential relationships, or at least five tangential relationships.

The invention relates to the use of a spark plug with edge tips tangential to the central electrode.

It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide an improvement in the spark plug.

Another object of the present invention is to provide an improved spark plug ground electrode.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a spark plug that exhibits improved fuel efficiency.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a spark plug that exhibits improved combustion pressure.

Another object of the present invention is to provide an improved spark plug that provides less pollutants in the exhaust gas.

Other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment, depending on the drawings and the appended claims.

In contrast to U.S. Pat. No. 5,051,651, in the present invention, a spark discharge electrode surface is shaped into an open concave curve, a straight line, or even a convex curve, so as to " clean " Spark generation areas to expand. This is done at the microscopic level so that any indication of the concentric radius of the surface hit by the spark discharge has a negative effect on the growth of the flame core. This discovery of the extreme sensitivity of the combustion and combustion process to the radius of said surface is one important part of one of our inventions.

The design of the concentric ring, no matter what the minimum length of the concentric curved portions, does not perform better in practice than a conventional spark plug design. This is a substantial difference between the invention and the solution described in U.S. Patent 5,051,651

-3GB 300538 B6 relies on a "hollow cylindrical grounding electrode, in which the combusted gas can be dissipated from ..." - see p. paragraph 2, line 59.

The distance of the earth electrode from the center electrode of U.S. Pat. No. 5,051,561 is given by the gap. Here tangential relations are useful due to the open surface hit by the spark discharge. Any concentric radius of said surface in tangential relation would severely limit the development of the flame core.

US Patent 5,051,651 includes two mounting shafts that provide some shielding effect to the flame core.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

1 is a plan view of the first embodiment of the present invention showing a general view; FIG. 2 is a plan view of the first embodiment of the spark plug of FIG. 1; FIG. 3 is a plan view of two electrodes, namely a grounding electrode; the electrodes and center electrodes used in the second embodiment of the present invention, which is considered to be a "forked" arrangement with two tangential relationships and one apex, FIG. 4 is a plan view of two electrodes, namely the ground electrodes and center electrodes used in the third Fig. 5 is a plan view of two electrodes, namely ground electrodes and center electrodes, which are used in a fourth embodiment comprising six segments, at least four tangential relationships and five peaks; 6 ground plan of two electrodes, namely the ground Fig. 7 is a plan view of two electrodes, namely ground electrodes and center electrodes, which are used in the sixth embodiment, which can be considered as an embodiment of the fifth embodiment, which comprises four segments and four tangential relationships; in the form of a "closed box" with four tangential relationships and four peaks, Fig. 8 is a plan view of two electrodes, namely the grounding electrodes and the center electrodes used in the seventh embodiment, which can be considered as a "closed hexagonal box" Fig. 9 is a plan view of two electrodes, namely the ground electrodes and the center electrodes, which are used in the eighth embodiment, which can be considered as a single aligned straight electrode " single tangential relationship " three electrodes, two territories Fig. 11 is a plan view of three electrodes, namely two ground electrodes and a center electrode, which are used in the form of a " double aligned straight electrode " with two tangential relationships; use in the tenth embodiment, which can be considered as a "double T electrode" with two tangential relationships, Fig. 12 is a plan view of three electrodes, namely two ground electrodes and a center electrode, which are used in the eleventh embodiment that can be considered For example, in the form of a " aligned double T electrode " with two tangential relationships, FIG. 13 is a plan view of four electrodes, namely three ground electrodes and a center electrode used in the eleventh embodiment which can be considered as a " triangular triple T " electrodes' Fig. 14 is a front elevational view of a typical center electrode shown below a cross-section of a portion of a ground electrode including a lower corner edge directed towards the center electrode in a tangential relationship; Fig. 15 a ground electrode providing a simple convexly curved edge wherein the cross-section of the grounding electrode has a rectangular shape, FIG. 16 shows a simple straight edge disposed at the center electrode, showing one edge in a tangential relationship, wherein the cross-section of the grounding electrode has a rectangular shape; to form multiple straight edges disposed at the center electrode, no tangential relationship being shown here, although the four edges may be in the zone shown in FIG. a cross-sectional view of each of the four grounding electrodes having a rectangular shape, FIG. 18 a triangular grounding electrode with three edges and three peaks positioned at the center electrode, showing three edges in tangential relationship, with the cross section of each linear ground segment

Fig. 19 is similar to the embodiment of Fig. 11, showing a triangular earth electrode and a triangular center electrode, showing three tangential relationships and three vertices; Fig. 20 an open-ended construction incorporating the earth electrode. with three curved edges and two vertices located at the center electrode, where three "curved" edges with tangential relationships are part of this embodiment, where the tangential relationship may be a "straight tangential relationship" or may include a "curved tangential relationship", Fig. 21 an open end having a ground electrode with three straight edges and two peaks located at the center electrode, showing three edges with tangential relationships and two peaks; FIG. 22 an open-end structure similar to that of FIG. 21 but withthe difference is that the center electrode shares the shape of the earth electrode, which in this case is square, showing three tangential relations, Fig. 23 a "forked" structure in which there are two tangential relations and one vertex, while the earth electrode and the center electrode, fig. 24 two grounding electrodes, each of which includes a “spike” at the end, which serves to surround the protruding portion of the center electrode, also showing four direct tangential relationships and two vertices, fig. FIG. 26 is a side view showing various positions 1, 2 and 3 in which the grounding electrode can be positioned relative to the center electrode, wherein the peaks 1, 2 and 3 are within the " zone " a position within the zone provides that each of these positions you positioning the lower edge of the grounding electrode to the outer edge of the center electrode, which, according to the inventor, at the time of filing, may produce a "chimney" effect for the gases being drawn, FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. with the lower edges of the ground electrode positioned above the center electrode in tangential relation to the peripheral projection of the center electrode, Fig. 28 embodiment similar to the embodiment of Fig. 27, except that the cross-section of the earth electrode has an aerodynamic shape offering less resistance to flame front propagation. FIG. 29 is an embodiment similar to that of FIG. 28 except that the earthing electrode has only a limited number of edges per arc-supported edge as seen in the electrode structure of FIG. 15 and wherein the cross-section it may have any shape that differs from that depicted by the edge - straight or different, as the closest surface to the top edges of the center electrode, Fig. 30 of an embodiment involving several grounding electrodes - four grounding electrodes (not shown) that provide several straight edges positioned at the center electrode apex and are inclined at an angle upwardly and inwardly, said angle not as important as the end position of the tips of the elongate elements; FIG. 31 is a cross-sectional view of an arrangement similar to that of FIG. 1; but with the difference that the cross-section of the ground electrode has a rhombic shape presenting edges to the upper circular edge of the center electrode, where this construction can improve the flame flow after ignition of the mixture due to the bevel above and below the edges of the ground electrode. modification of the embodiment of FIG. 1, except that a simple chamfer is provided on the top surface of the grounding electrode, which could bring some advantage over the embodiment of FIG. 31 and also facilitate manufacturing; FIG. 33 of an embodiment including the grounding electrode similar to FIG. 1, except that a notch has been formed on the center electrode that improves the spark effect, FIG. 34 is a cross-sectional front view of an embodiment similar to that of FIG. 1 with an earth electrode except that it is at the top of the center electrode a "tapered" section is created that creates a fine wire discharge tip on the central electrode, Fig. 35 the edge of the grounding electrode located from above, through one stem or not shown several shafts that support the "important" edge where the central electrode also has a top 36 shows the arrangement of the notch includes the "maximized edge distance arrangement" of the two edges defined by the center and ground electrodes, although this arrangement is more costly to manufacture than other arrangements, said arrangement providing less spark shielding between the edges in the combustion chamber and small electrode sizes should also serve to reduce the blockage of the incoming fuel and the existing flame core, FIG. 37 a spark plug with a grounding electrode similar to that of FIGS. 1 and 2, except that a center electrode with a chisel was used, FIG. 38 a spark plug with a center a single-point electrode with a grounding electrode similar to that of Figures 1 and 2, Figure 39

-5GB 300538 B6 A view of an arrangement of a series of central electrodes that may be used with the other grounding electrodes described herein, including a chisel tip, a pyramid tip, a V-slot tip, a pin tip, a polygon tip, a single tip, a candle tip. chamfered tip, hollow cylinder, hollow polygon, and tapered arrangement, FIGS. 40A and 40B are a plan view and front view of an arrangement that includes a T-shaped center electrode with T-shaped ends defining edges, and a pair of grounding electrodes similarly each defining an edge 41A and 41B, a plan view and a front view of an arrangement comprising an L-shaped center electrode and a grounding electrode with curved tangential edges, where the two segments can be used so that as in FIGS. 40A and 40B, or multiple segments may be used to save energy 40A and 40B, FIGS. 42A and 42B of an arrangement comprising a center electrode and a grounding electrode arranged to form three tangential relationships; FIG. 43 of an arrangement comprising a center electrode and a grounding electrode that provides vertical and horizontal gaps to represent another display mode Fig. 44 is a plan view of an exemplary center electrode and two exemplary grounding electrodes, further showing a tangential relationship that is a feature of the present invention; Fig. 45 is a plan view of an exemplary center electrode and a two-tooth ground electrode similar to that of Fig. 3 but having shorter teeth that provide a tangential relationship, as shown in case 2 of the example of FIG. 44 and also showing the middle apex, FIG. 46 of a " wide box " configuration similar to that of FIG. 1, except for four tangential relations are the four edges of the grounding electrode outside the central electrode protrusion and in the " zone " of FIG. 26, FIG. 47, a " wide fork " configuration similar to that shown in FIG. the edges of the grounding electrode are located outside the protrusion of the exemplary center electrode and in the zone of FIG. 26, FIG. 48 shows the expected difference in the properties of the concentric and non-concentric electrodes, i.e. the concentric earth electrode, " open " it can be seen that the open surfaces of the electrode, according to the inventor, tend to promote the propagation of the flame core.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed, according to the general description, to the use of a spark plug 10 with a conventional center electrode 20 and one or more ground electrodes 30, each defining at least one tip end that is oriented substantially tangentially to the circumference of the annular electrode 20 below.

One arrangement contemplated within the scope of the present invention may be called the box-type spark plug arrangement shown in FIG. 1. The box-type candle 10 uses a grounding electrode 30 that is generally square in shape and surrounds, viewed from above, the central electrode 20. In FIG. In fact, see Figure 2, the box does not surround the center electrode 20, since there is a gap of 0.63 mm in one test, defined between the upper circular surface of the center electrode 20 and the plane in which the downwardly directed lower surfaces of the split fork tips lie.

As can be seen, the ground electrode 30 comprises two end tips 32 that initially diverg and eventually converge. The two end tips 32 include two elongated edges 34 of equal length. Two of these elongated edges 34 can be considered diverging and the others converging. That is, each tip 32 includes one diverging elongated edge 34 and one converging elongated edge 34. The bend may be considered to connect a particular diverging elongated edge 34 to the corresponding converging elongated edge 34. Such bends - two in Figure 1, are shown substantially in a vertical plane extending over the median longitudinal axis of the center tip.

The grounding electrode 30 comprises three peaks, namely the apex point 40 and the two inner bends 44.

-6GB 300538 B6

The cross-sections of the elongated edges 34 have a rectangular shape, one embodiment having a width of 1.27 mm and a thickness of 1.27 mm. Such a cross section provides four substantially linear, at least not near the bend, outward-facing corner edges - see also FIG. 14. It can be believed that the relationship of the at least one lower corner edge to the center electrode 20 provides improved performance. Such a relationship is called a "tangential relationship" and in Figure 1 four such tangential relationships are shown, one for each elongated edge 34.

It will be appreciated that the center electrode 20 of FIG. 2 is an upward centered electrode 20 in this application. However, this is not intended to be limiting. In operation, such a central electrode 20 may be oriented in different directions.

Other embodiments of grounding electrodes 30 are contemplated in accordance with the present invention.

Giant. 3 shows a plan view of two electrodes, ground electrodes 51 and center electrodes 20 used in the second embodiment of the present invention, which is considered to be a "forked" arrangement with two tangential relationships and one apex.

Giant. 4 shows a plan view of two electrodes, the ground electrodes 52 and the central electrodes 20 used in the third embodiment, which includes three elongated edges 34, three tangential relationships and three peaks.

Giant. 5 shows a plan view of two electrodes, the ground electrodes 53 and the central electrodes 20 used in the fourth embodiment, which includes six elongated edges 34, at least four tangential relationships, and five peaks.

Giant. 6 shows a plan view of two electrodes, the ground electrodes 60 and the center electrodes 20 used in the fifth embodiment, which includes four segments and four tangential relationships.

Giant. 7 shows a plan view of two electrodes, ground electrodes 70 and center electrodes 20, which are used in the sixth embodiment, which can be considered as a "closed box" design with four tangential relationships and four peaks.

Giant. 8 shows a plan view of two electrodes, ground electrodes 80 and center electrodes 20, which are used in the seventh embodiment, which can be considered as a "closed hexagonal box" with six tangential relationships and six peaks.

Giant. 9 shows a plan view of two electrodes, the ground electrodes 90 and the central electrodes 20, which are used in the eighth embodiment, which can be considered as one aligned straight electrode ' with one tangential relationship.

Giant. 10 shows a plan view of three electrodes, two grounding electrodes 100, 101 and a central electrode 20, which are used in the ninth embodiment, which can be considered as a "double aligned straight electrode" with two tangential relationships.

Giant. 11 shows a plan view of three electrodes, two grounding electrodes 110, 111 and a central electrode 20 used in the tenth embodiment, which can be considered as a "double T electrode" with two tangential relationships.

Giant. 12 shows a plan view of three electrodes, two grounding electrodes 120, 121 and a central electrode 20, which are used in the eleventh embodiment, which can be considered as an "aligned double T electrode" with two tangential relationships.

Giant. 13 shows a plan view of four electrodes, three grounding electrodes 130, 131, 132 and a central electrode 20 used in the eleventh embodiment, which can be considered as a "triangular triple T electrode" with three tangential relationships.

-7EN 300538 B6

Giant. 14 is a front elevational view of a typical center electrode 20 shown below a cross section of a portion of a ground electrode 140 including a lower corner edge directed towards the center electrode 20 in a tangential relationship.

Giant. 15 illustrates a ground electrode 150 providing a single convexly curved edge disposed adjacent a central electrode 20 with a single edge in a tangential relationship, wherein the cross-section of the ground electrode 150 has a rectangular shape.

Giant. 16 depicts a simple straight edge disposed adjacent the center electrode 20, wherein one edge is shown in tangential relationship with the cross-section of the ground electrode 160 having a rectangular shape,

Giant. 17 illustrates the use of four grounding electrodes 170, 171, 172, 173 that join to form multiple straight edges disposed at the center electrode 20. No tangential relationship is shown, although four edges may be in the zone shown in FIG. the cross-section of each of the four grounding electrodes 170, 171, 172, 173 has a rectangular shape.

Giant. 18 shows a triangular earth electrode 180 with three edges and three peaks located at the center electrode 20. Three edges are shown tangentially, wherein the cross section of each linear segment of earth electrode 180 is substantially rectangular.

Giant. 19 illustrates an embodiment similar to that of FIG. 11, that is, the triangular earth electrode 190 and the triangular center electrode 195, showing three tangential relationships and three peaks.

Giant. 20 illustrates an embodiment of an open-ended structure comprising a grounding electrode 200 with three curved edges and two apexes positioned at the central electrode 20. Three "curved" edges with tangential relationships are part of this embodiment, where the tangential relationship may be a "direct tangential relationship"; may include a "curved tangential relationship".

Giant. 21 illustrates an open-end structure comprising a ground electrode 210 with three straight edges and two peaks positioned adjacent the center electrode 20, showing three edges with tangential relationships and two peaks.

Giant. 22 shows an open-end structure similar to that of FIG. 21, except that the central electrode 20 shares the shape of the earth electrode 220, which in this case is square, showing three tangential relationships.

Giant. 23 depicts a "forked" structure in which there are two tangential relationships and one vertex, and the earth electrode 230 and the center electrode 20 are also shown.

Giant. 24 illustrates two grounding electrodes 240, 241, each having a "bar" at the end, which serves to surround the protruding portion of the central electrode 20. Four straight tangential relationships and two peaks are also shown.

Giant. 25 illustrates a simple concave curved edge of the ground electrode 250 positioned adjacent the central electrode 20.

Giant. 26 is a side view showing different positions J, 2 and 3 in which the ground electrode 260 may be disposed relative to the center electrode 20, wherein positions 1, 2 and 3 are within the " zone ". This position 1, 2 and 3 within the zone provides that each of these positions 1, 2, 3 exposes the lower edge of the earth electrode 260 to the outer edge of the center electrode 20, which can produce a "chimney" effect for the aspirated gases.

-8GB 300538 B6

Giant. 27 is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment of FIG. 1 taken along the central longitudinal axis of the center electrode 20 with the lower edges of the ground electrode 270 disposed above the center electrode 20 in tangential relation to the periphery of its protrusion.

Giant. 28 illustrates an embodiment similar to that of FIG. 27, except that the cross-section of the ground electrode 280 has an aerodynamic shape that offers less resistance to flame front propagation.

Giant. 29 illustrates an embodiment similar to that of FIG. 28, except that the earthing electrode 290 has a limited number of edges only per edge supported by the arc, as seen in the electrode structure of FIG. 25. Such a construction may also suit the view of FIG. 15. The cross-section may have any shape that differs from the depicted shape that represents an edge straight or otherwise, as the closest surface to the top edges of the center electrode 20.

Giant. 30 illustrates embodiments include several grounding electrodes 300, 301, 302. Four grounding electrodes may also be used which provide a plurality of straight edges positioned at the apex of the center electrode 20 and inclined at an angle upward and inward. Said angle is not as important as the end position of the tips of the elongated elements.

Giant. 31 shows a cross-sectional view of an arrangement similar to that of FIG. 1, but with the difference that the cross-section of the ground electrode 310 has a rhombic shape presenting edges to the upper circular edge of the center electrode 20. This construction can improve flame flow after ignition due to the bevel above and below the edges of the ground electrode 310.

Giant. 32 illustrates a modification of the embodiment of FIG. 1, except that a simple chamfer is provided on the top surface of the ground electrode 320, which could bring some advantage over the embodiment of FIG. 31 and also facilitate manufacturing.

Giant. 33 depicts an embodiment including a grounding electrode 330 similar to that of FIG. 1, except that a notch has been formed on the central electrode 335 to improve the spark effect.

Giant. 34 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment similar to that of FIG. 1 with earth electrode 340 except that a taper is formed at the top of center electrode 345 to form a fine wire discharge tip on center electrode 345.

Giant. 35 illustrates the edge of the grounding electrode 350 positioned from above, by means of a single stem or a plurality of not shown stem that supports the edge of the candle L0. The center electrode 355 also has a notch formed on the upper portion.

Giant. 36 depicts an arrangement that includes a "maximized edge-to-edge arrangement" of two edges defined by center and ground electrodes 365, 360. Although this arrangement is more costly to manufacture than other arrangements, said arrangement provides less spark shielding between in the combustion chamber. Small electrode sizes should also serve to reduce blockage of the incoming fuel and the existing flame core.

Giant. 37 depicts a spark plug with an earth electrode 370 similar to that of FIGS. 1 and 2, except that a center electrode 375 with a chisel tip is used.

Giant. 38 shows a spark plug having a central electrode 385 with a single tip and an earth electrode 380 similar to that of FIGS. 1 and 2.

Giant. 39 is a view of an arrangement of a series of central electrodes that may be used with the other grounding electrodes disclosed herein including a 395-A chisel, pyra-9C 300538 B6 mid-point 395-B, V-point 395-C point, 395 point -D with pin, polygonal tip 395-E, single tip 395-l · '. multi-edge tip 395-G, tapered tip 395-H, hollow cylinder 395-1, hollow polygon tip 395-J, and tapered tip 395-K.

Giant. 40A and 40B illustrate a plan view and elevational view of an arrangement that includes a central T-shaped electrode 405 with T-shaped ends that define edges, and a pair of grounding electrodes 400, 401, each similarly defining an edge, with the edges of the central electrode 405 being located at the edges of the grounding electrodes 400, 401 each with respect to each other.

Giant. 41A and 41B show a plan view and elevational view of an arrangement that includes an L-shaped center electrode 415 and a grounding electrode 410 with curved tangential edges. The two segments may be used as in Figs. 40A and 40B, or multiple segments may be used with the arrangement of Figs. 40A and 40B.

Giant. 42A and 42B illustrate an arrangement comprising a central electrode 425 and a ground electrode 420 arranged to form three tangential relationships.

Giant. 43 illustrates an arrangement comprising a center electrode 20 and a ground electrode 430 that provides vertical and horizontal gaps G1 and G2. Preferably, gap G1 is zero or greater and gap G2 is greater than or equal to zero. It is another way of depicting a “zone” concept.

Giant. 44 is a plan view of an exemplary center electrode 20 and two exemplary grounding electrodes 440, 441. It further illustrates a tangential relationship that is a feature of the present invention. As can be seen, the "tangential relationship" includes not only the "case 1" of the relationship of elements 20, 440, but also the "case 2" of the relationship of elements 20, 241.

Giant. 45 is a plan view of an exemplary center electrode 20 and a two-tooth ground electrode 450 similar to that of FIG. 3 but having shorter teeth that provide a tangential relationship of 453, 454, as shown in case 2 of the example of FIG. 44. Also shown is the central peak 455.

Giant. 46 illustrates a " wide box " configuration similar to that of FIG. 1 except that the four edges of the ground electrode 460 are outside the center electrode protrusion and in the " zone " of FIG. 26 instead of the four tangential relationships. the filling provides additional space in the suction concept shown in FIG. 26.

Giant. 47 illustrates a " wide fork " configuration similar to that of FIG. 3 except that, instead of two tangential relationships, the two edges of the ground electrode 470 are located outside the protrusion of the exemplary center electrode 20 and in the zone of FIG. the filling provides additional space in the suction concept shown in FIG. 26.

Giant. 48 shows the expected difference in properties of the concentric earth electrode 480 and the non-concentric earth electrode 481, both in conjunction with a typical center electrode 20, while as shown, the open surfaces of the earth electrode 481, according to the inventor, tend to promote flame core propagation.

In some cases, it is desirable to have one or more straight edges tangential to the annular top edge of the ground electrode. This relationship will be referred to as the "straight edge tangential relationship" because the straight edge defined by the ground electrode is represented by one or more straight edges, each edge tangential to the perimeter of the central electrode protrusion. Such an arrangement is shown, for example, in FIGS. 1, 3, 4, 9, although many others are shown.

- 10GB 300538 B6

It should be noted that the tangential relationship of the "curved" edge is also contemplated within the scope of the present invention, and is illustrated, for example, in Figs. 15, 23, 25.

An important point to note is that the spark connects the center electrode to the nearest ground electrode. The actual positioning of the ground electrode tips 30 can be realized anywhere near the outer periphery of the protrusion of the central electrode 20, which need not be circular, at a selected height at or above the apex of the central electrode 20.

It will be appreciated that, in certain aspects of the invention, it is contemplated to use some displacement as well as a tangential relationship, as shown in Figures 17 and 26.

As mentioned, it is desirable in some cases for the straight edges to be tangential to the curved upper edge of the earth electrode. It will be appreciated that certain aspects of the invention contemplate, in such tangential relationships, the use of curved edges.

To illustrate the zone concept, reference may be made to Fig. 26 where any of the positions shown X, 2, 3 exposes the edge of the earth electrode 260 toward the outer edge of the central electrode 20 to the upper peripheral edge, which may be circular in shape.

There is another related concept of the invention in which the edges are positioned or exposed together and are not necessarily tangential, but are so close to each other that their edges are the closest portions of the two electrodes, or are at least as close to each other as each other two electrode portions, in the area of the spark. It is believed that at the time of suction-filling, the "shielding" of the top of the center electrode, the placement of the earth electrode outside the perimeter, the progressive concept, and stands above and outside the tangential and / or peak concept. Placing the bottom of the " active edge " of the grounding electrode at / above the center electrode allows the fuel mixture to enter the sparking area much more easily.

At the time of suction, the tangential relationship and peaks occurring in some embodiments of the invention, such as shown in Figures 1, 3, 4, 5, 6 and others, provide some improvement over the prior art. Some such peaks provide a vertical "opening" or "chimney effect" providing improved flame propagation properties. At the time of suction, such "zone" relationship and peaks that provide some embodiments of the invention show some improvements over the prior art.

Simple shapes of the grounding electrodes described in this application can be created by secondary and subsequent operations on a standard electrode powered by a cable that is currently in use in the industry. Different types of mandrels and punches can be used to form different segments of each electrode. Alternatively, the electrode can be made by molding, allowing specific configurations to be made. The pressed electrode is then welded to the base of the spark plug. Instead of pressing, the shape of the electrode can be formed by laser cutting, water jet cutting, chemical etching, forging, casting, metal powder molding, etc. Each electrode produced by the above methods is ultimately welded to the base of the spark plug at a certain location.

Depending on the arrangement of FIGS. 9 and 10, these electrodes may be formed by a small change in the lead wire arrangement. Offset relative to the center electrode can be generated by adjusting the base wire shifting device or by using a secondary operation that creates a specific connection of the conventional side wire.

For example, in Fig. 1, the thickness of the ground electrode 30 including the end portions, including their segments, has a value as known in the art, i.e. about 1.27 mm, and may also be between 1.02 and 1.65 mm. but equally 0.25 to 0.38 mm and any other value without prejudice to the spirit of the invention. The width of the shaft may be 1.9 to 0.32 mm, as well as 0.25 to 0.38 mm, without departing from the spirit of the invention.

- 11 GB 300538 B6

The tip width of the fork is not critical, but the edge sharpness is important. In the preferred embodiment, the tip width is 1.27 mm and the thickness is 1.27 mm, but both dimensions may range from 0.25 to 0.38 mm, but other dimensions without prejudice to this. of the invention.

It is to be understood that the grounding electrode could not be believed to have a square or rectangular shape if it did not have a sharp corner that represents the lower corner edge oriented toward the center electrode - see Figures 14 or 16.

The diameter of the center electrode may be 0.25 to 0.38 mm. The thickness of the electrode shaft may be 0.10 to 1.65 mm, but also 0.25 to 0.38 mm and other dimensions, without prejudice to the spirit of the invention.

The materials used are known in the art, including hitherto used quality materials such as platinum.

While the description of the invention has been described in detail in the embodiments, it will be understood that many variations and modifications of the invention may be made without departing from the spirit and scope thereof as described in the appended claims.

Claims (22)

PATENT CLAIMS Spark plug (10) for generating ignition sparks, comprising, in an upright position, an upwardly directed central electrode (20) with a protrusion having a cross-section of major dimension and height, and further comprising a grounding electrode (30), characterized in that the electrode (30) has an elongated edge (34) that is longer than the main dimension of the central electrode (20) and is located tangential to the cross-section of the protrusion of the upward center electrode (20), the elongated edge (34) of the ground electrode (30) a lower portion at the uppermost portion or higher than the uppermost portion of the center electrode (20). Spark plug according to claim 1, characterized in that the grounding electrode (30) is formed by two elongated edges (34) which connect at the apex point (40) outside the cross section of the protrusion of the central electrode (20). Spark plug according to claim 1, characterized in that the elongated edge (34) is formed by two elongated edges of the ground electrode (30) which are joined at the inner apex (41) outside the cross section of the protrusion of the central electrode (20). Spark plug according to claim 1, characterized in that the elongated edge (34) extends substantially straight. Spark plug according to claim 1, characterized in that the central electrode (20) has a rounding, the elongated edge (34) of the ground electrode (150) having a curvature that is larger than the rounding of the central electrode (20) and having a rounding center different from the center point of the center electrode (20). -12 GB 300538 B6 Spark plug according to claim 1, characterized in that the central electrode (20) has a central electrode edge, wherein the elongated edge (34) is formed by at least substantially one straight elongated edge extending beyond the major dimension of the central electrode (20), wherein 5, the substantially straight elongated edge is spaced from the electrode edge, and further the at least one straight elongated edge lies at or above them and which lies at or outside the peripheral protrusion of the central electrode edge so that the central electrode edge and the at least one straight elongated edge (34) ) are directed towards each other such that the central electrode edge and the at least one substantially straight elongate edge (34) are formed on adjacent portions of the central electrode 10 (20) and the ground electrode (30) in the ignition region. Spark plug according to claim 1, characterized in that the elongated edge (34) comprises at least one elongated edge (34) spaced from the central electrode edge, wherein the at least one elongated edge (34) lies exclusively at or above the highest part 15 and wherein the at least one elongated edge (34) lies solely at or outside the peripheral protrusion of the central electrode edge and wherein the elongated edge has portions that are not concentric to the central electrode edge so that the central electrode edge and the at least one elongated edge (34) the edges are formed so that the edges are formed on adjacent parts of the central electrode (20) and the ground electrode (30) in the ignition region. The spark plug of claim 1, wherein the ground electrode (430) comprises at least one ground electrode that defines one elongate edge, wherein the elongate edge is not concentric to the center electrode (20) and is longer than the main electrode. 25, the dimension of the central electrode (20), wherein at least one elongated edge (34) lies outside the protrusion and the lower portion of the ground electrode (430) lies at the top of the central electrode (20) or higher, such that the central electrode edge and at least one elongated edge ) are directed towards each other so that the edges are formed on adjacent parts of the central electrode (20) and the ground electrode (30) in the ignition region. Spark plug according to claim 8, characterized in that the upwardly extending central electrode (20) has a substantially circular cross section and the ground electrode (30) has an elongated edge (34) that is at least as long as the diameter of the central electrode (20). and is located above and outside the protrusion and has the lowest portion at the highest portion of the central electrode (20), or is higher, Spark plug according to claim 1, characterized in that the elongated edge (34) is one of two elongated edges (34), each in a tangential position to the cross-section of the upwardly directed central electrode (20), wherein the elongated edges (34). 34) form one intermediate apex in contact with each other outside the projection. The spark plug of claim 1, wherein the ground electrode (30) is box-shaped and has an end section diverging into two prongs (32), each comprising a first section and a second section, the first sections being divergent with each other and the second sections are convergent with each other and each has a free end, wherein the two spikes (32) are connected and connected 45 sections lie in four tangents relative to the cross-section and form three intermediate peaks (40.41). Spark plug according to claim 1, characterized in that the central electrode (20) has at least one elongated and non-circular elongated edge, wherein the edge of the central electrode (20) and the edge of the ground electrode (30) are not concentric, both edges being oriented. 50 toward each other to create a spark. - 13 GB 300538 B6 Spark plug according to claim 1, characterized in that the ground electrode (30) has a main portion extending above the center electrode (20) and dividing into two prongs (32) that are adapted to a partially box-like shape and comprising four portions of elongated edges (34) oriented tangentially to the circular edge contour of the center electrode (20). 14. The spark plug of claim 13, wherein the earth electrode (30) comprises an apex point (40) located outside said edge contour. Spark plug according to claim 14, characterized in that the apex point (40) is at the divergence point of the two spikes (32). 16. The spark plug of claim 15 wherein the first and third sections are parallel. 17. The spark plug of claim 16 wherein the second and fourth sections are parallel. The spark plug of claim 1, wherein the ground electrode (51) comprises a first end and a second end joined together at the apex, wherein the first end, the second end and the apex of the ground electrode (51) are disposed at or outside the central electrode protrusion. (20) such that the first end or the second end of the ground electrode (51) further lies close to the center electrode (20) and the outer edge of the central electrode (20) its portion lies close to the earth electrode (51) to allow sparking between the earth electrode an electrode (51) and a central electrode (20). Spark plug according to claim 1, characterized in that the elongated edge (34) is substantially straight and spaced from the edge of the center electrode (20) and is located only at or above the highest portion of the edge of the center electrode (20), and the at least one substantially straight elongate edge (34) is also located only at or outside the transverse cross-section of the central electrode protrusion (20) such that the central electrode edge (20) and the straight elongate edge (34) are formed on adjacent portions of the central electrode (20) and ground electrodes (30) in the ignition region. A spark plug (10) for generating ignition sparks in an ignition region comprising, in an upright position, an upwardly facing central electrode (20) and a grounding electrode (30, 53, 60, 80) extending above the central electrode (20), characterized in that the earth electrode (30, 53, 60, 80) has defined at least three tangential relationships with respect to the cross-section of the protrusion of the center electrode (20). Spark plug according to claim 20, characterized in that the earth electrode (30, 53, 60, 80) has at least four tangential relationships defined. 22. The spark plug of claim 20, wherein the earth electrode (53, 80) has at least five tangential relationships defined.