EP2517323B1 - Spark plug with a through-hole for adjustment - Google Patents

Spark plug with a through-hole for adjustment Download PDF

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Publication number
EP2517323B1
EP2517323B1 EP10798461.9A EP10798461A EP2517323B1 EP 2517323 B1 EP2517323 B1 EP 2517323B1 EP 10798461 A EP10798461 A EP 10798461A EP 2517323 B1 EP2517323 B1 EP 2517323B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
spark plug
ground electrode
opening
wall
electrode
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EP10798461.9A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP2517323A1 (en
Inventor
Jochen Fuchs
Markus Kraus
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Innio Jenbacher GmbH and Co OG
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GE Jenbacher GmbH and Co OHG
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Publication of EP2517323A1 publication Critical patent/EP2517323A1/en
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    • 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
    • H01T13/54—Sparking plugs having electrodes arranged in a partly-enclosed ignition chamber
    • 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
    • H01T21/00—Apparatus or processes specially adapted for the manufacture or maintenance of spark gaps or sparking plugs
    • H01T21/06—Adjustment of spark gaps

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a spark plug having a center electrode and a ground electrode, wherein the center electrode is arranged to the ground electrode so that the spark gap between the ground electrode and center electrode extends, wherein the spark gap is surrounded by a wall. Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for adjusting the distance from the center electrode to the ground electrode of such a spark plug.
  • Spark plugs conduct ignition current into the combustion chamber of an internal combustion engine and ignite the fuel-air mixture there by a spark that spins over between the electrodes (in the so-called spark gap).
  • spark gap In gas engines with high power and large combustion chambers, high temperatures occur. Gas engines are increasingly being used to provide an antechamber.
  • the pre-chamber is formed significantly smaller compared to the actual combustion chamber and is separated from the combustion chamber by a wall, with smaller transfer openings are provided, which allow a fluid exchange between the combustion chamber and prechamber.
  • the actual ignition with the spark plug takes place in the pre-chamber, where a relatively rich fuel-air mixture is ignited there with the spark plug, the resulting ignition torches over the transfer openings in the actual combustion chamber and there pass a relatively lean fuel-air mixture ignite.
  • a spark plug according to the preamble of claim 1 is made EP 1 517 416 A2 known.
  • Object of the present invention is therefore to improve the possibility of adjusting the distance between the center electrode and the ground electrode in a spark plug of the type mentioned.
  • the basic idea is therefore to use the spark gap, e.g. along or parallel to the longitudinal axis of the spark plug and making it accessible from the side of the spark plug. It is deliberately accepted that the wall surrounding the ground electrode and center electrode is weakened by the recess or opening. The spark gap then preferably extends along or parallel to the longitudinal axis of the spark plug. The spark gap is that distance between ground electrode and center electrode in which the spark skips.
  • the feature that surrounds the wall of the spark gap it is understood that the spark gap in the radial direction is either completely surrounded by the wall or where no wall is surrounded by the body or housing of the spark plug.
  • the weakening of the wall is less significant when a mounting portion for fixing the spark plug is provided in a combustion chamber housing of an internal combustion engine, wherein the recess or opening in the installed state of the spark plug in the combustion chamber housing is completely covered by the combustion chamber housing.
  • the attachment portion comprises an external thread and that the wall at least partially carries the external thread.
  • the opening is arranged in the region of the external thread.
  • An advantageous embodiment of the invention provides that the ground electrode is secured to the wall via a web.
  • the web extends substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the spark plug.
  • the opening is arranged on the opposite side of the attachment point of the web on the wall in the wall.
  • Wall, web and ground electrode can be permanently connected to each other, for example, welded or formed integrally formed or otherwise permanently connected to each other.
  • the wall in the region of the opening has a cross-section which is substantially annular, wherein the recess or opening extends over a range of 3 to 10%, preferably 5 to 7% along the outer circumference of the circle. In this way, the wall is only minimally weakened.
  • not only one but a plurality of openings may be provided.
  • the shape of the at least one opening is adapted in the simplest case to the distance gauge. It can e.g. be formed circular, square, rectangular or polygonal.
  • the longitudinal extent of the opening along the spark gap is between the single and double distance between the center electrode and the ground electrode.
  • the aforementioned advantageous embodiment with prechamber ignition is often achieved in that the prechamber is introduced into the combustion chamber as a separate component. In the present case, however, it would be appropriate to make the antechamber directly to the spark plug. It can therefore be provided that a preferably dome-shaped cover is provided on the front side, which covers the Mass electrode and center electrode in the installed state separates from the combustion chamber of the internal combustion engine, wherein transfer openings are provided in the cover.
  • Such an embodiment would also have the advantage that no conversion measures of the internal combustion engine would be required to switch from a "normal" combustion chamber ignition to an antechamber ignition.
  • the invention relates to a method for adjusting the distance between a center electrode and a ground electrode in a spark plug of the aforementioned type.
  • the method is characterized in that over the opening, a distance gauge having a thickness which is the desired distance from the ground electrode Center electrode is inserted, and the ground electrode is pressed to the center electrode until the distance from the center electrode to the ground electrode corresponds to the thickness of the distance gauge.
  • Fig. 1 a a side view of a spark plug 1 according to the invention.
  • the Fig. 1b shows an oblique view of the spark plug 1
  • the Fig. 1c a view of the front side of the spark plug 1
  • the Fig. 1 d is a cross section along the plane EE of the view of Fig. 1a
  • the spark plug 1 will be explained with reference to the four views.
  • the spark plug 1 comprises an insulator body 12, which is usually formed of ceramic.
  • a connector 10 which is electrically conductive and is connected to an ignition coil or the like.
  • the connector 10 supplies the voltage to the center electrode 2, which extends in the interior of the ceramic body to the front side, where the center electrode 2 protrudes from the insulator body 12.
  • the spark plug 1 further has a screw-in approach 14, usually in the form of a hexagon for screwing the spark plug 1 in the combustion chamber housing (schematically with 36 shown) of an internal combustion engine (not shown). Furthermore, a thread 18 is provided with which the spark plug 1 with the combustion chamber housing 36 is permanently connected. The thread 18 is arranged on the wall 16, which surrounds the ground electrode 4 and the center electrode 2 so that the spark gap s is surrounded by this wall 16. From the wall 16, a web 24 extends to the center of the spark plug 1, where the actual ground electrode 4 is formed as a counter electrode to the center electrode 2. It can be seen that the spark gap s between ground electrode 4 and center electrode 2 is formed such that it extends along the longitudinal axis a of the spark plug 1.
  • an opening 20 is now provided, through which a distance gauge 32 can be inserted.
  • an opening 20 On both sides of the wall 16 is in each case an opening 20, which is also arranged so that the distance gauge is insertable from each side and optionally completely pushed through.
  • the distance to the center electrode can be reduced by the web 24 yielding slightly until the thickness of the distance gauge 32 is reached and the desired electrode spacing s is set.
  • the wall 16 is approximately circular in the region of the opening 20.
  • the opening 20 is arranged on the fastening area 25 of the web 24 opposite side. Based on the circumference of the wall 16, the width b of the opening 20 makes up about 6%.
  • the thickness that is, the longitudinal extent k along the longitudinal axis a of the spark plug 1, the opening is slightly thicker than the electrode spacing s, so that the distance gauge 32 is well insertable.
  • FIGS. 2a to 2d a known spark plug is described with a recess which substantially the embodiment of the FIGS. 1a to 1d equivalent. It can therefore in this respect to the description of the figures to the FIGS. 1a to 1d to get expelled.
  • Fig. 2a shows a side view
  • Fig. 2b an oblique view
  • Fig. 2c a view of the front
  • Fig. 2d a sectional view along the plane EE of Fig. 2a
  • a recess 22 instead of an opening 20 is provided.
  • the opening 20 also allows access of the distance gauge 32.
  • the width b of the recess 22 corresponds to the width b of the opening 20 of the FIGS. 1a to 1d
  • the longitudinal extent k ' is about three times the thickness of the electrode spacing s.
  • FIGS. 3a to 3d show a known spark plug 1 with a recess (22) and a cover (30) based on the FIGS. 1a to 1d , as well as 2a to 2d. It can also be made to the preceding description of the figures.
  • Fig. 3a shows a side view
  • Fig. 3b an oblique view
  • Fig. 3c a view on the front
  • Fig. 3d a sectional view along the plane EE of Fig. 3a
  • a cover 30 is provided which limits the spark plug 1 the front side, that is at the electrode end.
  • the actual wall 16 in this case has a recess 22 which extends to the end of the thread 18. This is followed by a hemispherical dome which forms the cover 30.
  • Studentsstömbohronne 34 are arranged, which form the fluid exchange between the enclosed space in the spark plug 1 and the actual combustion chamber.
  • the opening 20 or recess 22 is covered in the installed state by the wall of the combustion chamber housing, since the spark plug is installed over the entire threaded portion 18.
  • the combustion chamber housing is schematically indicated with 36 in this regard.
  • the spark plugs have a wall 16 which converges conically internally to the center of the spark plug 1.
  • the space between ground electrode 24 toward the insulator body 12 is therefore frusto-conical. In this way, even better heat can be removed from the two electrodes 2, 4.

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft eine Zündkerze mit einer Mittelelektrode und einer Massenelektrode, wobei die Mittelelektrode zur Massenelektrode so angeordnet ist, dass sich die Funkenstrecke zwischen Massenelektrode und Mittelelektrode erstreckt, wobei die Funkenstrecke von einer Wandung umgeben ist. Weiters betrifft die Erfindung ein Verfahren zum Einstellen des Abstands von Mittelelektrode zu Massenelektrode einer solchen Zündkerze.The invention relates to a spark plug having a center electrode and a ground electrode, wherein the center electrode is arranged to the ground electrode so that the spark gap between the ground electrode and center electrode extends, wherein the spark gap is surrounded by a wall. Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for adjusting the distance from the center electrode to the ground electrode of such a spark plug.

Zündkerzen führen Zündstrom in den Brennraum einer Brennkraftmaschine und entzünden dort durch einen zwischen den Elektroden überschlagenden Zündfunken (in der so genannten Funkenstrecke) das Kraftstoff-Luft-Gemisch. In Gasmotoren mit hohen Leistungen und großen Brennräumen treten hohe Temperaturen auf. Bei Gasmotoren geht man vermehrt dazu über, eine Vorkammer vorzusehen. Die Vorkammer ist im Vergleich zum eigentlichen Brennraum deutlich kleiner ausgebildet und wird vom Brennraum durch eine Wandung abgetrennt, wobei kleinere Übertrittsöffnungen vorgesehen sind, die einen Fluidaustausch zwischen Brennraum und Vorkammer ermöglichen. Die eigentliche Zündung mit der Zündkerze erfolgt in der Vorkammer, wobei dort ein verhältnismäßig fettes Kraftstoff-Luft-Gemisch mit der Zündkerze gezündet wird, wobei die dabei entstehenden Zündfackeln über die Übertrittsöffnungen in den eigentlichen Brennraum übertreten und dort ein verhältnismäßig mageres Kraftstoff-Luft-Gemisch entzünden.Spark plugs conduct ignition current into the combustion chamber of an internal combustion engine and ignite the fuel-air mixture there by a spark that spins over between the electrodes (in the so-called spark gap). In gas engines with high power and large combustion chambers, high temperatures occur. Gas engines are increasingly being used to provide an antechamber. The pre-chamber is formed significantly smaller compared to the actual combustion chamber and is separated from the combustion chamber by a wall, with smaller transfer openings are provided, which allow a fluid exchange between the combustion chamber and prechamber. The actual ignition with the spark plug takes place in the pre-chamber, where a relatively rich fuel-air mixture is ignited there with the spark plug, the resulting ignition torches over the transfer openings in the actual combustion chamber and there pass a relatively lean fuel-air mixture ignite.

Um Massenelektrode und Mittelelektrode vor den hohen Temperaturen zu schützen, kann man eine Wandung vorsehen, die gut Wärme leitend ist. Außerdem kann man die Elektroden näher an den Isolatorkörper der Zündkerze heranführen, um einen rascheren Wärmefluss in das Zündkerzengehäuse zu gewährleisten. Dies bedeutet allerdings, dass die Elektroden von außen erschwert zugänglich sind. Beim Stand der Technik war es daher erforderlich, nach einer gewissen Betriebszeit die Zündspannung zu erhöhen, um den durch Elektroerosion größer werdenden Abstand zwischen Mittelelektrode und Massenelektrode auszugleichen. Eine alternative Variante sieht vor, dass die Funkenstrecke nicht parallel zur Längsachse der Zündkerze sondern senkrecht dazu angeordnet wird, um zumindest von der Stirnseite der Zündkerze Zugang zur Funkenstrecke zu erhalten. Der Nachteil dieser Vorgehensweise liegt allerdings darin, dass bei solchen Zündkerzen mehrere Massenelektroden erforderlich sind, da der Zündfunke ansonsten asymmetrisch verläuft, und dass die zur Längsachse der Zündkerze parallele Funkenstrecke unerwünscht ist.In order to protect the ground electrode and the center electrode from the high temperatures, it is possible to provide a wall which conducts heat well. In addition, one can bring the electrodes closer to the insulator body of the spark plug to ensure a more rapid heat flow into the spark plug housing. However, this means that the electrodes are difficult to access from the outside. In the prior art, it was therefore necessary to increase the ignition voltage after a certain period of operation in order to compensate for the increasing distance between the center electrode and the ground electrode by electroerosion. An alternative variant provides that the spark gap is not arranged parallel to the longitudinal axis of the spark plug but perpendicular thereto, in order to obtain at least from the end face of the spark plug access to the spark gap. The disadvantage of this procedure is However, in that such a plurality of spark plugs mass electrodes are required because the spark otherwise runs asymmetrically, and that the parallel to the longitudinal axis of the spark plug spark gap is undesirable.

Eine Zündkerze, gemäß Oberbegriff des Anspruchs 1 ist aus EP 1 517 416 A2 bekannt.A spark plug according to the preamble of claim 1 is made EP 1 517 416 A2 known.

Aufgabe der vorliegenden Erfindung ist es daher, bei einer Zündkerze der eingangs genannten Art die Möglichkeit der Einstellung des Abstands zwischen Mittelelektrode und Massenelektrode zu verbessern.Object of the present invention is therefore to improve the possibility of adjusting the distance between the center electrode and the ground electrode in a spark plug of the type mentioned.

Diese Aufgabe wird durch eine Zündkerze, gemäß Anspruch 1 gelöst.This object is achieved by a spark plug according to claim 1.

Die Grundidee besteht also darin, die Funkenstrecke z.B. entlang der oder parallel zur Längsachse der Zündkerze zu belassen und von der Seite der Zündkerze zugänglich zu machen. Dabei wird bewusst in Kauf genommen, dass die die Massenelektrode und Mittelelektrode umgebende Wandung durch die Ausnehmung oder Öffnung geschwächt wird. Bevorzugt erstreckt sich dann die Funkenstrecke entlang der oder parallel zur Längsachse der Zündkerze. Die Funkenstrecke ist jene Strecke zwischen Massenelektrode und Mittelelektrode, in der der Funke überspringt. Das Merkmal, dass die Wandung die Funkenstrecke umgibt, ist dabei so zu verstehen, dass die Funkenstrecke in radialer Richtung entweder vollständig von der Wandung umgeben ist oder dort, wo keine Wandung ist, vom Körper oder Gehäuse der Zündkerze umgeben ist.The basic idea is therefore to use the spark gap, e.g. along or parallel to the longitudinal axis of the spark plug and making it accessible from the side of the spark plug. It is deliberately accepted that the wall surrounding the ground electrode and center electrode is weakened by the recess or opening. The spark gap then preferably extends along or parallel to the longitudinal axis of the spark plug. The spark gap is that distance between ground electrode and center electrode in which the spark skips. The feature that surrounds the wall of the spark gap, it is understood that the spark gap in the radial direction is either completely surrounded by the wall or where no wall is surrounded by the body or housing of the spark plug.

Die Schwächung der Wandung fällt weniger ins Gewicht, wenn ein Befestigungsabschnitt zum Befestigen der Zündkerze in einem Brennraumgehäuse einer Brennkraftmaschine vorgesehen ist, wobei die Ausnehmung oder Öffnung im Einbauzustand der Zündkerze im Brennraumgehäuse vollständig vom Brennraumgehäuse abgedeckt wird.The weakening of the wall is less significant when a mounting portion for fixing the spark plug is provided in a combustion chamber housing of an internal combustion engine, wherein the recess or opening in the installed state of the spark plug in the combustion chamber housing is completely covered by the combustion chamber housing.

Im einfachsten Fall kann vorgesehen sein, dass der Befestigungsabschnitt ein Außengewinde umfasst und dass die Wandung zumindest bereichsweise das Außengewinde trägt.In the simplest case it can be provided that the attachment portion comprises an external thread and that the wall at least partially carries the external thread.

Gemäß der Erfindung ist die Öffnung im Bereich des Außengewindes angeordnet.According to the invention, the opening is arranged in the region of the external thread.

Eine vorteilhafte Ausführung der Erfindung sieht vor, dass die Massenelektrode mit der Wandung über einen Steg befestigt ist. Vorteilhafterweise ist dabei vorgesehen, dass sich der Steg im Wesentlichen senkrecht zur Längsachse der Zündkerze erstreckt.An advantageous embodiment of the invention provides that the ground electrode is secured to the wall via a web. Advantageously, it is provided that the web extends substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the spark plug.

Um die Zugänglichkeit zur Funkenstrecke besonders gut zu ermöglichen und die Hebelverhältnisse für die nachfolgende Einstellung optimal zu gestalten, kann vorgesehen sein, dass die Öffnung an der gegenüberliegenden Seite der Befestigungsstelle des Stegs an der Wandung in der Wandung angeordnet ist.In order to facilitate the accessibility to the spark gap particularly well and to make the leverage for the subsequent adjustment optimal, it can be provided that the opening is arranged on the opposite side of the attachment point of the web on the wall in the wall.

Wandung, Steg und Massenelektrode können dauerhaft miteinander verbunden sein, beispielsweise verschweißt oder einstückig gefertigt ausgebildet oder sonst dauerhaft miteinander verbunden sein.Wall, web and ground electrode can be permanently connected to each other, for example, welded or formed integrally formed or otherwise permanently connected to each other.

Weiters kann vorgesehen sein, dass die Wandung im Bereich der Öffnung einen Querschnitt aufweist, der im Wesentlichen kreisringförmig ausgebildet ist, wobei sich die Ausnehmung oder Öffnung über einen Bereich von 3 bis 10%, vorzugsweise 5 bis 7% entlang des Außenumfangs des Kreises erstreckt. Auf diese Weise wird die Wandung nur minimal geschwächt. Gegebenenfalls können nicht nur eine sondern mehrere Öffnungen vorgesehen sein. Die Form der wenigstens einen Öffnung ist im einfachsten Fall an die Abstandslehre angepasst. Sie kann z.B. kreisförmig, quadratisch, rechteckig oder polygonförmig ausgebildet sein.Furthermore, it can be provided that the wall in the region of the opening has a cross-section which is substantially annular, wherein the recess or opening extends over a range of 3 to 10%, preferably 5 to 7% along the outer circumference of the circle. In this way, the wall is only minimally weakened. Optionally, not only one but a plurality of openings may be provided. The shape of the at least one opening is adapted in the simplest case to the distance gauge. It can e.g. be formed circular, square, rectangular or polygonal.

Außerdem kann vorgesehen sein, dass die Längserstreckung der Öffnung entlang der Funkenstrecke zwischen dem einfachen und doppelten Abstand zwischen Mittelelektrode und Massenelektrode beträgt.In addition, it can be provided that the longitudinal extent of the opening along the spark gap is between the single and double distance between the center electrode and the ground electrode.

Die eingangs erwähnte vorteilhafte Ausgestaltung mit Vorkammerzündung wird häufig dadurch erreicht, dass die Vorkammer in den Brennraum als gesondertes Bauteil eingebracht wird. Im gegenständlichen Fall würde es sich allerdings anbieten, die Vorkammer direkt an der Zündkerze zu gestalten. Daher kann vorgesehen sein, dass stirnseitig eine vorzugsweise kuppelförmige Abdeckung vorgesehen ist, welche die Massenelektrode und Mittelelektrode im Einbauzustand vom Brennraum der Brennkraftmaschine abtrennt, wobei Übertrittöffnungen in der Abdeckung vorgesehen sind. Eine solche Ausgestaltung hätte außerdem den Vorteil, dass keine Umbaumaßnahmen der Brennkraftmaschine erforderlich wären, um von einer "normalen" Brennraumzündung auf eine Vorkammerzündung umzustellen.The aforementioned advantageous embodiment with prechamber ignition is often achieved in that the prechamber is introduced into the combustion chamber as a separate component. In the present case, however, it would be appropriate to make the antechamber directly to the spark plug. It can therefore be provided that a preferably dome-shaped cover is provided on the front side, which covers the Mass electrode and center electrode in the installed state separates from the combustion chamber of the internal combustion engine, wherein transfer openings are provided in the cover. Such an embodiment would also have the advantage that no conversion measures of the internal combustion engine would be required to switch from a "normal" combustion chamber ignition to an antechamber ignition.

In einem weiteren Aspekt betrifft die Erfindung ein Verfahren zum Einstellen des Abstands zwischen einer Mittelelektrode und einer Massenelektrode bei einer Zündkerze der vorgenannten Art. Das Verfahren zeichnet sich dadurch aus, dass über die Öffnung eine Abstandslehre mit einer Dicke, die dem gewünschten Abstand von Massenelektrode zu Mittelelektrode entspricht, eingeführt wird und die Massenelektrode zur Mittelelektrode gedrückt wird, bis der Abstand von Mittelelektrode zu Massenelektrode der Dicke der Abstandslehre entspricht.In a further aspect, the invention relates to a method for adjusting the distance between a center electrode and a ground electrode in a spark plug of the aforementioned type. The method is characterized in that over the opening, a distance gauge having a thickness which is the desired distance from the ground electrode Center electrode is inserted, and the ground electrode is pressed to the center electrode until the distance from the center electrode to the ground electrode corresponds to the thickness of the distance gauge.

Weitere Vorteile und Details der Erfindung werden an Hand der nachfolgenden Figuren und Figurenbeschreibungen erläutert.Further advantages and details of the invention will be explained with reference to the following figures and description of the figures.

Es zeigen:

  • Fig. 1a bis 1d vier Ansichten einer Ausführungsvariante einer erfindungsgemäßen Zündkerze;
  • Fig. 2a bis 2d vier Ansichten einer Ausführungsvariante einer bekannten Zündkerze mit einer Ausnehmung
  • Fig. 3a bis 3d vier Ansichten einer Ausführungsvariante einer bekannten Zündkerze, mit einer Ausnehmung und einer Abdeckung.
Show it:
  • Fig. 1a to 1d four views of an embodiment of a spark plug according to the invention;
  • Fig. 2a to 2d four views of an embodiment of a known spark plug with a recess
  • Fig. 3a to 3d four views of an embodiment of a known spark plug, with a recess and a cover.

In der Fig. 1 a ist eine Seitenansicht einer Zündkerze 1 gemäß der Erfindung gezeigt. Die Fig. 1b zeigt eine Schrägansicht der Zündkerze 1, die Fig. 1c eine Sicht auf die Stirnseite der Zündkerze 1 und die Fig. 1 d einen Querschnitt entlang der Ebene E-E der Ansicht der Fig. 1a. Die Zündkerze 1 wird anhand der vier Ansichten erläutert. Die Zündkerze 1 umfasst einen Isolatorkörper 12, der in der Regel aus Keramik ausgebildet ist. An der Oberseite befindet sich ein Anschlussstück 10, das elektrisch leitend ausgebildet ist und mit einer Zündspule oder dergleichen verbunden wird. Das Anschlussstück 10 liefert die Spannung an die Mittelelektrode 2, die im Inneren des Keramikkörpers bis zur Stirnseite verläuft, wo die Mittelelektrode 2 aus dem Isolatorkörper 12 herausragt. Die Zündkerze 1 weist weiters einen Einschraubansatz 14 auf, in der Regel in der Form eines Sechskants zum Einschrauben der Zündkerze 1 in das Brennraumgehäuse (schematisch mit 36 dargestellt) einer Brennkraftmaschine (nicht gezeigt). Weiters ist ein Gewinde 18 vorgesehen, mit welchem die Zündkerze 1 mit dem Brennraumgehäuse 36 dauerhaft verbindbar ist. Das Gewinde 18 ist auf der Wandung 16 angeordnet, die die Massenelektrode 4 und die Mittelelektrode 2 so umgibt, dass die Funkenstrecke s von dieser Wandung 16 umgeben ist. Von der Wandung 16 reicht ein Steg 24 zur Mitte der Zündkerze 1, wo die eigentliche Massenelektrode 4 als Gegenelektrode zur Mittelelektrode 2 gebildet wird. Erkennbar ist, dass die Funkenstrecke s zwischen Massenelektrode 4 und Mittelelektrode 2 so gebildet ist, dass sie entlang der Längsachse a der Zündkerze 1 verläuft.In the Fig. 1 a is shown a side view of a spark plug 1 according to the invention. The Fig. 1b shows an oblique view of the spark plug 1, the Fig. 1c a view of the front side of the spark plug 1 and the Fig. 1 d is a cross section along the plane EE of the view of Fig. 1a , The spark plug 1 will be explained with reference to the four views. The spark plug 1 comprises an insulator body 12, which is usually formed of ceramic. At the top there is a connector 10, which is electrically conductive and is connected to an ignition coil or the like. The connector 10 supplies the voltage to the center electrode 2, which extends in the interior of the ceramic body to the front side, where the center electrode 2 protrudes from the insulator body 12. The spark plug 1 further has a screw-in approach 14, usually in the form of a hexagon for screwing the spark plug 1 in the combustion chamber housing (schematically with 36 shown) of an internal combustion engine (not shown). Furthermore, a thread 18 is provided with which the spark plug 1 with the combustion chamber housing 36 is permanently connected. The thread 18 is arranged on the wall 16, which surrounds the ground electrode 4 and the center electrode 2 so that the spark gap s is surrounded by this wall 16. From the wall 16, a web 24 extends to the center of the spark plug 1, where the actual ground electrode 4 is formed as a counter electrode to the center electrode 2. It can be seen that the spark gap s between ground electrode 4 and center electrode 2 is formed such that it extends along the longitudinal axis a of the spark plug 1.

Erfindungsgemäß ist nunmehr eine Öffnung 20 vorgesehen, durch die eine Abstandslehre 32 einführbar ist. Auf beiden Seiten der Wandung 16 ist jeweils eine Öffnung 20, die Außerdem so angeordnet ist, dass die Abstandslehre von jeder Seite einführbar ist und gegebenenfalls komplett durchschiebbar ist. Indem Druck auf die Massenelektrode 4 ausgeübt wird, kann der Abstand zur Mittelelektrode verringert werden, indem der Steg 24 etwas nachgibt, solange bis die Dicke der Abstandslehre 32 erreicht ist und der gewünschte Elektrodenabstand s eingestellt ist. Wie dem Ausführungsbeispiel zu entnehmen ist, ist die Wandung 16 im Bereich der Öffnung 20 etwa kreisförmig ausgebildet. Die Öffnung 20 ist auf der dem Befestigungsbereich 25 des Stegs 24 gegenüberliegenden Seite angeordnet. Bezogen auf den Umfang der Wandung 16 macht die Breite b der Öffnung 20 etwa 6% aus. Hinsichtlich der Dicke, das heißt der Längserstreckung k entlang der Längsachse a der Zündkerze 1 ist die Öffnung geringfügig dicker als der Elektrodenabstand s, damit die Abstandslehre 32 gut einführbar ist.According to the invention, an opening 20 is now provided, through which a distance gauge 32 can be inserted. On both sides of the wall 16 is in each case an opening 20, which is also arranged so that the distance gauge is insertable from each side and optionally completely pushed through. By exerting pressure on the ground electrode 4, the distance to the center electrode can be reduced by the web 24 yielding slightly until the thickness of the distance gauge 32 is reached and the desired electrode spacing s is set. As can be seen from the exemplary embodiment, the wall 16 is approximately circular in the region of the opening 20. The opening 20 is arranged on the fastening area 25 of the web 24 opposite side. Based on the circumference of the wall 16, the width b of the opening 20 makes up about 6%. With regard to the thickness, that is, the longitudinal extent k along the longitudinal axis a of the spark plug 1, the opening is slightly thicker than the electrode spacing s, so that the distance gauge 32 is well insertable.

In den Figuren 2a bis 2d ist eine bekannte Zündkerze mit einer Ausnehmung beschrieben, die im Wesentlichen dem Ausführungsbeispiel der Figuren 1a bis 1d entspricht. Es kann diesbezüglich also auf die Figurenbeschreibung zu den Figuren 1a bis 1d verwiesen werden. Fig. 2a zeigt eine Seitenansicht, Fig. 2b eine Schrägansicht, Fig. 2c eine Sicht auf die Stirnseite und Fig. 2d eine Schnittdarstellung entlang der Ebene E-E der Fig. 2a. Im Unterschied zum Ausführungsbeispiel der Figuren 1a bis 1d ist nunmehr eine Ausnehmung 22 an Stelle einer Öffnung 20 vorgesehen. Die Öffnung 20 ermöglicht ebenfalls den Zugang der Abstandslehre 32. Die Breite b der Ausnehmung 22 entspricht der Breite b der Öffnung 20 der Figuren 1a bis 1d, die Längserstreckung k' beträgt etwa dreimal die Dicke des Elektrodenabstands s.In the FIGS. 2a to 2d a known spark plug is described with a recess which substantially the embodiment of the FIGS. 1a to 1d equivalent. It can therefore in this respect to the description of the figures to the FIGS. 1a to 1d to get expelled. Fig. 2a shows a side view, Fig. 2b an oblique view, Fig. 2c a view of the front and Fig. 2d a sectional view along the plane EE of Fig. 2a , In contrast to the embodiment of FIGS. 1a to 1d is now a recess 22 instead of an opening 20 is provided. The opening 20 also allows access of the distance gauge 32. The width b of the recess 22 corresponds to the width b of the opening 20 of the FIGS. 1a to 1d , the longitudinal extent k 'is about three times the thickness of the electrode spacing s.

Die Figuren 3a bis 3d zeigen eine bekannte Zündkerze 1 mit einer Ausnehmung (22) und einer Abdeckung (30) in Anlehnung an die Figuren 1a bis 1d, sowie 2a bis 2d. Es kann ebenfalls auf die vorangegangene Figurenbeschreibung verwiesen werden. Fig. 3a zeigt dabei eine Seitenansicht, Fig. 3b eine Schrägansicht, Fig. 3c eine Ansicht auf die Stirnseite und Fig. 3d eine Schnittdarstellung entlang der Ebene E-E der Fig. 3a. Im Unterschied zum Ausführungsbeispiel der Figuren 2a bis 2d ist nunmehr zusätzlich eine Abdeckung 30 vorgesehen, die die Zündkerze 1 stirnseitig, das heißt am elektrodenseitigen Ende begrenzt. Die eigentliche Wandung 16 weist dabei eine Ausnehmung 22 auf, die bis ans Ende des Gewindes 18 reicht. Daran schließt eine halbkugelförmige Kuppe an, die die Abdeckung 30 bildet. Auf der Abdeckung 30 sind Überstömbohrungen 34 angeordnet, die den Fluidaustausch zwischen dem eingeschlossenen Raum in der Zündkerze 1 und dem eigentlichen Brennraum bilden.The FIGS. 3a to 3d show a known spark plug 1 with a recess (22) and a cover (30) based on the FIGS. 1a to 1d , as well as 2a to 2d. It can also be made to the preceding description of the figures. Fig. 3a shows a side view, Fig. 3b an oblique view, Fig. 3c a view on the front and Fig. 3d a sectional view along the plane EE of Fig. 3a , In contrast to the embodiment of FIGS. 2a to 2d is now additionally a cover 30 is provided which limits the spark plug 1 the front side, that is at the electrode end. The actual wall 16 in this case has a recess 22 which extends to the end of the thread 18. This is followed by a hemispherical dome which forms the cover 30. On the cover 30 Überstömbohrungen 34 are arranged, which form the fluid exchange between the enclosed space in the spark plug 1 and the actual combustion chamber.

Wie aus allen Figuren ersichtlich ist, wird die Öffnung 20 bzw. Ausnehmung 22 im Einbauzustand durch die Wandung des Brennraumgehäuses abgedeckt, da die Zündkerze über den gesamten Gewindeabschnitt 18 eingebaut ist. In der Figur 1 ist das Brennraumgehäuse diesbezüglich schematisch mit 36 angedeutet.As can be seen from all figures, the opening 20 or recess 22 is covered in the installed state by the wall of the combustion chamber housing, since the spark plug is installed over the entire threaded portion 18. In the FIG. 1 the combustion chamber housing is schematically indicated with 36 in this regard.

Wie aus den Figuren außerdem ersichtlich ist, weisen die Zündkerzen eine Wandung 16 auf, die im Inneren konisch zur Mitte der Zündkerze 1 zusammenlaufen. Der Raum zwischen Massenelektrode 24 hin zum Isolatorkörper 12 ist daher kegelstumpfförmig ausgebildet. Auf diese Art kann noch besser Wärme von den beiden Elektroden 2, 4 abgeführt werden.As can also be seen from the figures, the spark plugs have a wall 16 which converges conically internally to the center of the spark plug 1. The space between ground electrode 24 toward the insulator body 12 is therefore frusto-conical. In this way, even better heat can be removed from the two electrodes 2, 4.

Claims (9)

  1. A spark plug (1) comprising a center electrode (2) and a ground electrode (4), wherein the center electrode (2) is so arranged relative to the ground electrode (4) that the spark gap (s) extends between the ground electrode (4) and the center electrode (2), wherein the spark gap (s) is surrounded by a wall (16) which to form a fastening portion for fastening the spark plug in a combustion chamber housing (36) of an internal combustion engine at least region-wise carries a male thread (18), wherein the wall (16) has an opening (20) which is arranged in the region of the male thread (18) and is so designed that a feeler gauge (32) can be inserted through said opening (20), between the center electrode (2) and the ground electrode (4) characterized in that the opening (20) is surrounded on all sides by the male thread (18).
  2. A spark plug as set forth in claim 1 characterized in that the ground electrode (4) is connected to the wall (16) by way of a leg (24).
  3. A spark plug as set forth in claim 2 characterized in that the leg (24) extends substantially perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis (a) of the spark plug (1).
  4. A spark plug as set forth in claim 3 characterized in that the opening (20) is arranged in the wall (16) at the side in opposite relationship to the fastening location (25) of the leg (24) to the wall (16).
  5. A spark plug as set forth in one of claims 2 through 4 characterized in that the wall (16), leg (24) and ground electrode (4) are in one piece.
  6. A spark plug as set forth in one of claims 1 through 5 characterized in that in the region of the opening (20) the wall (16) is of a cross-section which is substantially in the shape of a circular ring, wherein the opening (20) extends over a region (b) of between 3 and 10%, preferably between 5 and 7%, along the outside periphery of the circle.
  7. A spark plug as set forth in one of claims 1 through 6 characterized in that the longitudinal extent (k) of the opening (20) along the spark gap (9) is between one and two times the spacing between the center electrode (2) and the ground electrode (4).
  8. A spark plug as set forth in one of claims 1 through 7 characterized in that at the end there is provided a preferably dome-shaped cover (30) which in the installed condition separates the ground electrode (4) and the center electrode (2) from the combustion chamber of the internal combustion engine, wherein there are provided transfer openings (34) in the cover (30).
  9. A method of adjusting the spacing between a center electrode (2) and a ground electrode (4) of a spark plug (1) as set forth in one of claims 1 through 8 characterized in that a feeler gauge (32) of a thickness which corresponds to the desired spacing is inserted by way of the opening (20) and the ground electrode (4) is pressed relative to the center electrode (2) until the spacing of the center electrode (2) relative to the ground electrode (4) corresponds to the thickness of the feeler gauge (32).
EP10798461.9A 2009-12-23 2010-12-03 Spark plug with a through-hole for adjustment Active EP2517323B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AT20262009A AT509313B1 (en) 2009-12-23 2009-12-23 SPARK PLUG WITH HOLE TO ADJUST
PCT/AT2010/000465 WO2011075754A1 (en) 2009-12-23 2010-12-03 Spark plug having a hole for adjustment

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP2517323A1 EP2517323A1 (en) 2012-10-31
EP2517323B1 true EP2517323B1 (en) 2015-02-18

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EP10798461.9A Active EP2517323B1 (en) 2009-12-23 2010-12-03 Spark plug with a through-hole for adjustment

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US (1) US8810117B2 (en)
EP (1) EP2517323B1 (en)
AT (1) AT509313B1 (en)
ES (1) ES2536708T3 (en)
WO (1) WO2011075754A1 (en)

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* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US8350457B2 (en) 2011-03-31 2013-01-08 Denso International America, Inc. Pre-chamber spark plug including a gas thread cavity
DE102014111897B4 (en) * 2013-10-31 2020-06-25 Borgwarner Ludwigsburg Gmbh Ignition device for igniting fuel-air mixtures in a combustion chamber of an internal combustion engine by means of a corona discharge
NZ736273A (en) * 2015-04-30 2022-11-25 John Leeson A spark plug testing kit
CN105119146B (en) * 2015-08-19 2017-07-25 张蝶儿 A kind of spark plug and its production technology
CN105119145B (en) * 2015-08-19 2017-07-25 张蝶儿 A kind of spark plug and its production technology
DE102017107679B4 (en) 2017-04-10 2020-03-26 Federal-Mogul Ignition Gmbh Prechamber spark plug for an internal combustion engine
US10145292B1 (en) * 2017-08-24 2018-12-04 Caterpillar Inc. Spark plug
DE102017221517A1 (en) * 2017-11-30 2019-06-06 Robert Bosch Gmbh Spark plug with extended housing and ground electrode on the inside of the housing

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JPS55101719A (en) * 1979-11-11 1980-08-04 Yariichi Hisada Internal combustion engine having subsidiary chamber
US5022881A (en) * 1985-07-19 1991-06-11 Cooper Industries, Inc. Method for making a spark plug with a predetermined spark gap
US6013973A (en) * 1997-10-24 2000-01-11 Sato; Jun Spark plug having a sub-combustion chamber for use in fuel ignition systems
AT413904B (en) * 2003-09-19 2006-07-15 Ge Jenbacher Ag SPARK PLUG
CN2796196Y (en) * 2005-05-08 2006-07-12 张明杰 Improved structure of spark plug
JP2008186667A (en) * 2007-01-29 2008-08-14 Denso Corp Spark plug for internal combustion engine

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ES2536708T3 (en) 2015-05-27
US8810117B2 (en) 2014-08-19
US20120256531A1 (en) 2012-10-11
WO2011075754A1 (en) 2011-06-30
AT509313A1 (en) 2011-07-15
AT509313B1 (en) 2011-12-15
EP2517323A1 (en) 2012-10-31

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