Three-dimensional multiple series gap spark plug

• Main Author: FLETCHER JAY W
• Format: Patent
• Language: English
• Published: 05.08.2003
• Edition: 7
• Subjects: BASIC ELECTRIC ELEMENTS; CORONA DEVICES; ELECTRICITY; GENERATING IONS TO BE INTRODUCED INTO NON-ENCLOSED GASES; OVERVOLTAGE ARRESTERS USING SPARK GAPS; SPARK GAPS; SPARKING PLUGS

In accordance with the present invention, there is provided a spark plug for producing a plurality of sparks which define a three-dimensional volume in a combustion chamber of an internal combustion engine. The spark plug is provided with an insulative body having a support end. The spark plug is further provided with a central positive electrode which extends through the insulative body. The central positive electrode has a spark ignition end. The spark plug is further provided with a conductive outer shell which is disposed about the insulative body. The spark plug is further provided with at least two neutral electrodes which are attached to the support end of the insulative body. One of the neutral electrodes is adjacent to the spark ignition end of the central positive electrode and spaced apart therefrom to form a spark gap therebetween. Another one of the neutral electrode is adjacent to the conductive outer shell and spaced apart therefrom to form a spark gap therebetween. The neutral electrodes are spaced apart from one another to form spark gaps between each other. The exposed end of the central positive electrode and the neutral electrodes define a three-dimensional volume.