Pulsed Plasma lgnitor for Internal Combustion Engines

Preliminary test results are presented on a new type of ignition system which is designed to permit operation of an internal combustion engine in the ultralean region where there is a potential of reducing NO_x emissions and increasing engine efficiency. The new ignition system utilizes electromagnetic body forces to drive the ignition kernel into the combustion chamber acting, in effect, as an extended multiple source. The high current (∼1000 amperes) produced during the ignitor discharge induces a local magnetic field of sufficient magnitude to realize a JXB body force which accelerates the discharge plasma. The system is compatible with conventional ignition systems and does not require any basic engine modifications.