GB1182726A - Electrical Spark Generating Apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

1,182,726. Ignition systems. BENDIX CORP. April 4, 1968 [April 10, 1967 (2)], No.16338/68. Heading F1B. In an electrical spark generating circuit untimed pulses at two levels of energy may be selectively supplied to a single ignition spark gap 71 from a common alternating current source 10. The circuit comprises first and second charging circuits including first and second capacitative storage means, the first such means being connected to a first control spark gap 31 and coupled through a first step up transformer 35 to a triggering electrode 37 of a second control spark gap 38 having a main gap between two main electrodes 60, 67, the second storage means being coupled through the main gap and a second step-up transformer 65 to the ignition spark gap 71. The first and second charging circuits further comprise two transformers 25, 40 whose secondary windings 28, 42 charge the first and second storage means respectively and whose primary windings are connected in series between ground and a first supply lead. The junction of the primary windings is connected to a second supply lead, a switch 11 being provided for connecting one terminal of the source selectively to either supply lead, the other terminal of the source being grounded. In a modification an autotransformer is used in place of the transformer 35. The system is suitable for jet and gas turbine engines.