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EP1881573B1 - Ignition device, in particular ignition plug for a combustion engine and method for positioning at least one ground electrode in the ignition device - Google Patents

Ignition device, in particular ignition plug for a combustion engine and method for positioning at least one ground electrode in the ignition device Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1881573B1
EP1881573B1 EP20070013763 EP07013763A EP1881573B1 EP 1881573 B1 EP1881573 B1 EP 1881573B1 EP 20070013763 EP20070013763 EP 20070013763 EP 07013763 A EP07013763 A EP 07013763A EP 1881573 B1 EP1881573 B1 EP 1881573B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
electrode
ground electrodes
ground
pair
ignition device
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Not-in-force
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EP20070013763
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP1881573A2 (en
EP1881573A3 (en
Inventor
Werner Niessner
Harald Knoll
Alexander Schenk
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Federal Mogul Ignition GmbH
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Federal Mogul Ignition GmbH
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Publication date
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Publication of EP1881573A2 publication Critical patent/EP1881573A2/en
Publication of EP1881573A3 publication Critical patent/EP1881573A3/en
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Publication of EP1881573B1 publication Critical patent/EP1881573B1/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
    • H01T13/46—Sparking plugs having two or more spark gaps
    • H01T13/467—Sparking plugs having two or more spark gaps in parallel connection
    • 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
    • H01T13/20—Sparking plugs characterised by features of the electrodes or insulation
    • H01T13/32—Sparking plugs characterised by features of the electrodes or insulation characterised by features of the earthed electrode
    • 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
    • H01T21/02—Apparatus or processes specially adapted for the manufacture or maintenance of spark gaps or sparking plugs of sparking plugs

Definitions

  • the invention is in the field of high voltage ignition.
  • the invention relates to an ignition device for igniting combustible mixtures, in particular a spark plug for generating the spark for a particular gas-fired internal combustion engine according to the preamble of patent claim 1 and a method for positioning at least one ground electrode in the ignition device according to the preamble of claim 12.
  • Ignition devices are known in which an essentially rotationally symmetrical spark plug body is provided in which an insulating element is centrally arranged.
  • the insulating member includes a center electrode whose tip protrudes from the insulating member.
  • At least one ground electrode is attached to the essentially rotationally symmetrical spark plug body, wherein a noble metal reinforcement at the spark gap, the so-called discharge gap, which forms the electrode gap, increases the service life.
  • a discharge takes place by applying a high voltage (eg, 30 kV) between the center electrode and the at least one ground electrode.
  • noble metal reinforcements become, for example, the center electrode made with platinum and iridium.
  • the precious metals used and the alloys containing at least one precious metal are very expensive together with the noble metal reinforcements, which require a high production cost.
  • the ground electrodes are bent toward the center axis of the ignition device in such a way that the four earth electrodes are fastened in the same bending height with respect to the center electrode. After attachment of the ground electrodes, they are punched out.
  • This embodiment is not applicable to igniters having a small micrometer pitch electrode gap, since the conventional igniters do not provide accurate punching of the ground electrodes where the circularity of the stamped ground electrode matches the diameter of the center electrode.
  • ground electrodes of a four-pole or three-pole spark plug of the order of about 2.7 mm which is the usual width of the ground electrode, can not be bent so close to the body center axis because of the mutual overlap that there is a small electrode spacing in the micrometer range formed.
  • an ignition device in particular a spark plug, with at least two fixed with respect to the tip of the center electrode in the same bending height ground electrodes known in which take place several types of discharge.
  • a first discharge is performed, the so-called air spark, at a first wide ignition gap between the end surface of the ground electrode facing the center electrode and the circumferential surface of the center electrode when a high voltage is applied between the center electrode and the at least two ground electrodes.
  • a second discharge takes place at a second wide ignition gap, the so-called air-sliding spark, between the ground electrode, the insulating element and the center electrode.
  • An ignition device is known from EP 0 774 812 A1 known.
  • the spark plug known heretofore has a first pair of ground electrodes whose end surfaces partially face the insulating member and partially the center electrode.
  • a second pair of ground electrodes have end faces which only face the center electrode. The distance of the end faces of the ground electrodes from the center electrode is substantially larger in the first pair than in the second pair.
  • Ignition devices for this purpose should have a long duration of at least 1,000 to 2,000 hours. Since such internal combustion engines operate with high compression pressure, special emphasis must be placed on the smallest possible electrode spacing. The currently available ignition devices do not meet the requirement for a long life, resulting in a costly spark plug change.
  • the invention is based on that from the EP 0 774 812 A1 known prior art task to produce an ignition device for an internal combustion engine, which has an increased life and a simplified and cost-effective production.
  • the ignition device according to the invention has considerable advantages over the prior art.
  • the inventive arrangement of the ground electrode pairs in a simple manner, depending on the engine operation preferably a Nachjustieriana the electrode distances, which is known in the art as Regaping guaranteed.
  • the electrode spacings of the ignition device can be readjusted by bending the ground electrodes again and again to small electrode distances lying in the micrometer range. Accordingly, the ignition device can be used several times, which leads to an increase in the life of the ignition device.
  • a significant advantage of the ignition device according to the invention is that the previously expensive to install noble metal reinforcement of the ground electrodes and / or center electrodes is eliminated and thus a simple production of the ignition device according to the invention is made possible. Despite the saving of precious metals for the ground electrodes and / or center electrodes, a significant increase in the life of the ignition device according to the invention is achieved by the height-offset arrangement of the ground electrode pairs of the ignition device.
  • Another significant advantage of the ignition device according to the invention is that in the height-offset arrangement of the ground electrode pairs preferably a nearly 360 ° - Abbrand Chemistry on the lateral surface of the center electrode for Available. In the arrangement according to the invention a mutual contact of the ground electrodes with each other is substantially excluded. With the enlargement of the Abbrand designs the spark exit surface is simultaneously increased and thus achieved an increased life.
  • the electrode spacing between each ground electrode and the center electrode is set to be substantially the same.
  • the electrode spacing is preferably in the micrometer range to avoid unwanted misfire. Since the ignition device according to the invention requires a high discharge voltage, the requirement for a stable operation without misfire is fulfilled by means of this small micrometer range.
  • the first ground electrode pair is arranged lower in relation to the tip of the center electrode than the second ground electrode pair.
  • a third ground electrode pair to the first and the second ground electrode pair with respect to the tip of the center electrode arranged offset in height such that the third ground electrode pair is arranged lower than the first ground electrode pair.
  • the center electrode and the ground electrodes are formed substantially of a non-noble metal.
  • the center electrode and the ground electrodes consist essentially of a nickel-based alloy, comprising elements such as Al, Si, Mn, Cr, Y, Hf.
  • nickel-based alloys comprising elements such as Al, Si, Mn, Cr, Y, Hf.
  • each end face of the ground electrode of the lateral surface of the center electrode opposite and the electrode distance is less than the distance of the ground electrode to the insulating.
  • the electrode spacing between each ground electrode and the center electrode is substantially equidistant. This leads to a uniform burnup of the ground electrodes and the center electrode. In addition, with each individual ground electrode, a reduced electrode distance between ground electrode and center electrode in the micrometer range is possible, which can lead to a reduction in the voltage requirement increase over the runtime. Furthermore, the spark is formed directly as air sparks. A gliding of the air spark on the toe of the insulating thus does not take place.
  • the electrode spacing is approximately between 200 .mu.m to 600 .mu.m, preferably at 300 .mu.m.
  • the small electrode spacing in the micrometer range is particularly important for ignition devices for use in gas-powered industrial engines with high compression pressures of great importance, since a particularly small electrode spacing leads to a reduction in the discharge voltage requirement.
  • the electrode spacing can be readjusted by bending the ground electrodes.
  • the advantage of this refinement makes it possible to readjust to small electrode spacings, preferably 300 .mu.m, during engine operation at regular maintenance intervals. A repeated use of these ignition devices is given.
  • each ground electrode forms an air gap with the center electrode over the electrode gap.
  • the height-offset arrangement of the ground electrode pairs preferably results in at least four air gaps ranging in size between 200 .mu.m and 600 .mu.m, preferably 300 .mu.m.
  • the distance between the air gap between the ground electrode and the center electrode substantially the electrode gap.
  • a significant advantage of the method according to the invention is that predefined electrode distances in the micrometer range can be set cost-effectively and with a minimum of method steps by positioning the ground electrode pairs according to the invention.
  • the small electrode spacings in conjunction with an increase in burnup area allow for an increase in the life of the igniter without the use of precious metals.
  • a further advantage of the method according to the invention is that the height-offset attachment of the laterally arranged ground electrodes makes it possible to use a large burnup area, which makes it possible to reduce the rise in the voltage requirement over the runtime.
  • the object of the invention shows the significant advantage that the electrode spacing can also be readjusted by attaching lateral ground electrodes.
  • the sequence of method steps can be changed such that after the ground electrodes of the first and second ground electrode pair are mounted on the end face of the spark plug body, they are bent in the direction of the center axis of the ignition device in a bending step. Subsequently, the ground electrodes of the first and second ground electrode pair are punched out again in a punching process step such that a substantially equal electrode gap is formed between each ground electrode and the center electrode.
  • the ground electrodes of the ground electrode pairs may be mounted on the end face of the spark plug body without respecting any order.
  • a substantially equal electrode spacing is formed between each ground electrode and the center electrode.
  • the electrode spacing is set between 200 ⁇ m and 600 ⁇ m, preferably 300 ⁇ m, to avoid misfire. Since the ignition device according to the invention enables a low discharge voltage, the requirement for stable operation without misfire is met by means of an electrode spacing of between 200 ⁇ m and 600 ⁇ m.
  • the ground electrodes are bent in such a way that the electrode spacing is readjusted.
  • the advantage of the method according to the invention makes it possible in motor operation, as needed, to readjust to small electrode spacings in the micrometer range, preferably 300 .mu.m, so that low raw emissions are possible until the end of the runtime.
  • the ignition devices according to the invention can be used several times with the ground electrodes positioned according to the invention.
  • the ground electrodes with equidistant Radien punched out with respect to the lateral surface of the center electrode are provided.
  • An advantage of this embodiment is that a uniform erosion of the ground electrodes and the center electrode takes place.
  • the FIG. 1 schematically illustrates an exemplary embodiment of the inventive ignition device 10 for an internal combustion engine, which is designed as a spark plug.
  • the ignition device 10 has a cylindrical spark plug body 1 made of metal, in which a ceramic insulating element 3 is arranged centrally. From the insulating member 3, the tip of the center electrode 2 formed of a non-noble metal projects into the combustion chamber (not shown) of the internal combustion engine.
  • the ceramic insulating member 3 includes the center electrode 2 of the igniter 10.
  • the center electrode 2 is disposed axially in the ceramic insulating member 3 and protrudes from the toe of the insulating member 31 before.
  • Centrally center axis 6 of ignition device 10 extends through center electrode 2.
  • a first ground electrode pair 4 is attached to the end surface of cylindrical spark plug body 1 such that the leading end of first and second ground electrodes 41, 42 of first ground electrode pair 4 are welded to the end surface by welding of the cylindrical spark plug body 1 is fixed.
  • a second ground electrode pair 5 is fixed on the end face of the spark plug body 1 such that the leading end of the third and fourth ground electrodes 51, 52 of the second ground electrode pair 5 is fixed to the end face of the cylindrical spark plug body 1 by welding ,
  • the ground electrodes 41, 42, 51, 52 made of a non-noble metal, made of a nickel-based alloy, electrode wires having dimensions of the order of 1.7 mm ⁇ 2.7 mm are used.
  • the first and second ground electrodes 41, 42 of the first ground electrode pair 4 are bent toward the central axis 6 of the ignitor 10 such that the ground electrodes 41, 42 of the first ground electrode pair 4 with respect to the tip 21 of the center electrode 2 are the same Bending height are positioned. Thereafter, the first and second ground electrodes 41, 42 of the first ground electrode pair 4 of equidistant radius are punched out by means of a punch having a diameter of 3.4 mm to 3.6 mm, depending on the center electrode diameter and the electrode gap. The ground electrodes 41, 42 of the first ground electrode pair 4 are aligned with each other at the same bending height.
  • the third and the fourth ground electrode 51, 52 of the second ground electrode pair 5 are bent in the direction of the central axis 6 of the ignition device 10 such that the ground electrodes 51, 52 of the second ground electrode pair 5 with respect to the tip 21 of the center electrode 2 are positioned at the same bending height.
  • the third and fourth ground electrodes 51, 52 of the second pair of ground electrodes 5 of equidistant radius are punched out by means of a punch having a diameter of 3.4 mm to 3.6 mm depending on the center electrode diameter and the electrode gap.
  • the ground electrodes 51, 52 of the second ground electrode pair 5 are aligned with each other at the same bending height, with the second ground electrode pair 5 being disposed offset in height from the first ground electrode pair 4 with respect to the tip 21 of the center electrode 2
  • Ground electrode pair 4 with respect to the tip 21 of the center electrode 2 is arranged deeper than the second ground electrode pair 5.
  • Electrode gap g1 and thus the air gap corresponds approximately to the spark gap of the air spark emerging from the center electrode 2 and jumping to the center electrode 2 facing end surface of the ground electrodes 41a, 42a, 51a, 52a.
  • the electrode gap g1 is thus formed between the end surface of the ground electrodes 41a, 42a, 51a, 52a facing the center electrode 2 and the circumferential surface of the center electrode 2.
  • Each of the four ground electrodes 41, 42, 51, 52 forms the same electrode gap g1 and the same air gap together with the center electrode 2, so that the electrode gap g1 between each ground electrode 41, 42, 51, 52 and the center electrode 2 is equidistant.
  • the electrode gap g1 is 300 ⁇ m.
  • the electrode gap g1 is readjusted by bending the ground electrodes 41, 42, 51, 52 to 300 .mu.m.
  • the electrode gap g1 is smaller than the distance g2 of the ground electrodes 41, 42, 51, 52 to the insulating member 3, so that only one air gap corresponding to the electrode gap g1 is formed.
  • the second ground electrode pair 5 is disposed higher than the first ground electrode pair 4 and the third ground electrode pair, with the third ground electrode pair being disposed lower than the first ground electrode pair 4.
  • the ground electrodes of the first, second and third pairs of ground electrode are arranged offset to the end face of the cylindrical spark plug body 1 by approximately 60 °.
  • the third ground electrode pair (not shown) is mounted according to the method described in the first embodiment.
  • electrode wires having dimensions of the order of 1.7 mm ⁇ 2.7 mm are used as described in the first embodiment.
  • the positioning of the ground electrodes of the first, second and third ground electrode pairs is performed by first welding the ground electrodes of the lowest ground electrode pair, the third ground electrode pair, with respect to the tip 21 of the center electrode 2 on the end face of the cylindrical spark plug body 1. Thereafter, the ground electrodes 41, 42 of the middle ground electrode pair, the first ground electrode pair 4, with respect to the tip 21 of the center electrode 2 at the end face of the cylindrical spark plug body 1 welded. Subsequently, the ground electrodes 51, 52 of the uppermost ground electrode pair, the second ground electrode pair 5, are welded to the end face of the cylindrical spark plug body 1 with respect to the tip 21 of the center electrode 2. Subsequently, the ground electrodes of the third ground electrode pair are bent and punched out.
  • ground electrodes 41, 42 of the first ground electrode pair 4 are bent and punched out.
  • the ground electrodes 51, 52 of the second ground electrode pair 5 are bent and punched out.
  • Each ground electrode forms the same electrode gap g1 together with the center electrode 2.
  • ground electrode pairs can be arranged offset in height with respect to the tip of the center electrode.
  • ground electrodes are also arm the ground electrodes with a noble metal alloy. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the ground electrodes are made of other metallic materials.
  • ground electrodes of the ground electrode pairs are arranged offset on the end face of the cylindrical spark plug body to another than 90 ° or 60 ° angle.
  • electrode wires of other dimensions may be used for the ground electrodes.
  • the punch with which the ground electrodes are punched out may have different diameters.
  • the invention is generally applicable to igniters.

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  • Manufacturing & Machinery (AREA)
  • Spark Plugs (AREA)

Description

Die Erfindung liegt auf dem Gebiet der Hochspannungszündung. Die Erfindung betrifft eine Zündeinrichtung zur Zündung brennfähiger Gemische, insbesondere eine Zündkerze zur Erzeugung der Zündfunken für eine, insbesondere mit Gas befeuerte Verbrennungskraftmaschine gemäß dem Oberbegriff des Patentanspruchs 1 und ein Verfahren zur Positionierung von wenigsten einer Masseelektrode in der Zündeinrichtung gemäß dem Oberbegriff des Patentanspruchs 12.The invention is in the field of high voltage ignition. The invention relates to an ignition device for igniting combustible mixtures, in particular a spark plug for generating the spark for a particular gas-fired internal combustion engine according to the preamble of patent claim 1 and a method for positioning at least one ground electrode in the ignition device according to the preamble of claim 12.

Bekannt sind Zündeinrichtungen, in denen ein im Wesentlichen rotationssymmetrischer Zündkerzenkörper vorgesehen ist, in welchem zentrisch ein Isolierelement angeordnet ist. Das Isolierelement enthält eine Mittelelektrode, deren Spitze aus dem Isolierelement herausragt. An dem im Wesentlichen rotationssymmetrischen Zündkerzenkörper ist wenigstens eine Masseelektrode befestigt, wobei eine Edelmetallarmierung am Zündspalt, dem sog. Entladespalt, der den Elektrodenabstand bildet, die Lebensdauer erhöht. An diesem Zündspalt findet durch Anlegen einer Hochspannung (z. B. 30 kV) zwischen der Mittelelektrode und der wenigstens einen Masseelektrode eine Entladung statt. Um die Lebensdauer der Zündkerze zu erhöhen, werden Edelmetallarmierungen beispielsweise der Mittelelektrode mit Platin und Iridium vorgenommen. Die eingesetzten Edelmetalle und die Legierungen, die zumindest ein Edelmetall enthalten, sind zusammen mit den Edelmetallarmierungen, die einen hohen Fertigungsaufwand erfordern, sehr teuer.Ignition devices are known in which an essentially rotationally symmetrical spark plug body is provided in which an insulating element is centrally arranged. The insulating member includes a center electrode whose tip protrudes from the insulating member. At least one ground electrode is attached to the essentially rotationally symmetrical spark plug body, wherein a noble metal reinforcement at the spark gap, the so-called discharge gap, which forms the electrode gap, increases the service life. At this spark gap, a discharge takes place by applying a high voltage (eg, 30 kV) between the center electrode and the at least one ground electrode. In order to increase the life of the spark plug, noble metal reinforcements become, for example, the center electrode made with platinum and iridium. The precious metals used and the alloys containing at least one precious metal are very expensive together with the noble metal reinforcements, which require a high production cost.

Herkömmlicherweise sind die Masseelektroden bei einer Zündeinrichtung mit vier Masseelektroden, eine sog. vierpolige Zündkerze, zur Mittelachse der Zündeinrichtung hin derart abgebogen, dass in Bezug auf die Mittelelektrode, die vier Masseelektroden in gleicher Biegehöhe befestigt sind. Nach der Befestigung der Masseelektroden werden diese ausgestanzt. Diese Ausführungsform ist für Zündeinrichtungen mit einem kleinen sich im Mikrometerbereich befindlichen Elektrodenabstand nicht anwendbar, da bei den herkömmlichen Zündeinrichtungen eine genaue Ausstanzung der Masseelektroden nicht gegeben ist, bei der die Kreisform der ausgestanzten Masseelektrode an den Durchmesser der Mittelelektrode angepasst ist.Conventionally, in the case of an ignition device with four earth electrodes, a so-called four-pole spark plug, the ground electrodes are bent toward the center axis of the ignition device in such a way that the four earth electrodes are fastened in the same bending height with respect to the center electrode. After attachment of the ground electrodes, they are punched out. This embodiment is not applicable to igniters having a small micrometer pitch electrode gap, since the conventional igniters do not provide accurate punching of the ground electrodes where the circularity of the stamped ground electrode matches the diameter of the center electrode.

Des Weiteren können Masseelektroden einer vierpoligen oder dreipoligen Zündkerze in der Größenordnung von ca. 2,7mm, die die übliche Breite der Masseelektrode darstellt, wegen der gegenseitigen Überlappung nicht so nah an die Körpermittelachse derart abgebogen werden, dass sich ein kleiner sich im Mikrometerbereich befindlicher Elektrodenabstand ausbildet.Furthermore, ground electrodes of a four-pole or three-pole spark plug of the order of about 2.7 mm, which is the usual width of the ground electrode, can not be bent so close to the body center axis because of the mutual overlap that there is a small electrode spacing in the micrometer range formed.

Gemäß der DE 195 03 223 A1 ist eine Zündeinrichtung, insbesondere eine Zündkerze, mit wenigstens zwei in Bezug auf die Spitze der Mittelelektrode in gleicher Biegehöhe befestigten Masseelektroden bekannt, bei welcher mehrere Entladungsarten stattfinden. Somit wird eine erste Entladung ausgeführt, der sog. Luftfunken, an einem ersten breiten Zündspalt zwischen der der Mittelelektrode zugewandten Endfläche der Masseelektrode und der Mantelfläche der Mittelelektrode, wenn eine Hochspannung zwischen der Mittelelektrode und den wenigstens zwei Masseelektroden angelegt wird. Gemäß der herkömmlichen Technologie findet eine zweite Entladung an einem zweiten breiten Zündspalt, der sog. Luftgleitfunken, zwischen der Masseelektrode, dem Isolierelement und der Mittelelektrode statt. Damit sich ein Luftgleitfunken ausbilden kann, wird ein relativ breiter Elektrodenabstand benötigt, um das Gleiten des Luftgleitfunkens über die Oberfläche des Isolatorelements zu ermöglichen. Diese Ausgestaltung der Zündeinrichtung ist insbesondere für mit Gas befeuerte Industriemotoren mit hohen Kompressionsdrücken nicht anwendbar, da bei solchen Zündeinrichtungen ein kleiner sich im Mikrometerbereich befindlicher Elektrodenabstand zur Senkung des Spannungsbedarfsanstiegs über Laufzeit nicht darstellbar ist und somit eine Fertigung von nah an der Mittelelektrode angeordneten Masseelektroden mittels Ausstanzen nicht umsetzbar ist.According to the DE 195 03 223 A1 is an ignition device, in particular a spark plug, with at least two fixed with respect to the tip of the center electrode in the same bending height ground electrodes known in which take place several types of discharge. Thus, a first discharge is performed, the so-called air spark, at a first wide ignition gap between the end surface of the ground electrode facing the center electrode and the circumferential surface of the center electrode when a high voltage is applied between the center electrode and the at least two ground electrodes. According to the conventional technology, a second discharge takes place at a second wide ignition gap, the so-called air-sliding spark, between the ground electrode, the insulating element and the center electrode. In order for air slip to be formed, a relatively wide electrode spacing is needed to allow the air sliding spark to slide over the surface of the insulator element. This embodiment of the ignition device is not applicable in particular for gas-fired industrial engines with high compression pressures, as with such igniters a small located in the micrometer range electrode spacing to reduce the voltage requirement increase over time is not displayed and thus a production of close to the center electrode arranged ground electrodes by punching is not feasible.

Eine Zündeinrichtung gemäß dem Oberbegriff des Patentanspruchs 1 ist aus der EP 0 774 812 A1 bekannt. Die hieraus bekannte Zündkerze hat ein erstes Paar von Masseelektroden, deren Endflächen teilweise dem Isolierelement und teilweise der Mittelelektrode zugewandt sind. Ein zweites Paar von Masseelektroden hat Endflächen, welche nur der Mittelelektrode zugewandt sind. Der Abstand der Endflächen der Masseelektroden von der Mittelelektrode ist beim ersten Paar wesentlich größer als beim zweiten Paar.An ignition device according to the preamble of claim 1 is known from EP 0 774 812 A1 known. The spark plug known heretofore has a first pair of ground electrodes whose end surfaces partially face the insulating member and partially the center electrode. A second pair of ground electrodes have end faces which only face the center electrode. The distance of the end faces of the ground electrodes from the center electrode is substantially larger in the first pair than in the second pair.

Gegenwärtig nehmen die Anforderungen an die Lebensdauer von Zündeinrichtungen für Verbrennungskraftmaschinen erheblich zu, was insbesondere für Zündeinrichtungen gilt, die in Gas befeuerten stationär betriebenen, großvolumigen und hochverdichteten Verbrennungskraftmaschinen eingesetzt werden sollen. Zündeinrichtungen für diesen Einsatzzweck sollten eine lange Laufzeit in der Größenordnung von wenigstens 1 000 bis 2 000 Stunden haben. Da derartige Verbrennungskraftmaschinen mit hohem Kompressionsdruck arbeiten, muss besonderer Wert auf einen möglichst kleinen Elektrodenabstand gelegt werden. Die gegenwärtig verfügbaren Zündeinrichtungen genügen der Forderung nach einer langen Lebensdauer nicht, was einen kostenintensiven Zündkerzenwechsel zur Folge hat.At present, the life expectancy requirements for internal combustion engine igniters are increasing significantly, in particular for igniters intended for use in gas-fired stationary, large volume and high compression internal combustion engines. Ignition devices for this purpose should have a long duration of at least 1,000 to 2,000 hours. Since such internal combustion engines operate with high compression pressure, special emphasis must be placed on the smallest possible electrode spacing. The currently available ignition devices do not meet the requirement for a long life, resulting in a costly spark plug change.

Der Erfindung liegt ausgehend von dem aus der EP 0 774 812 A1 bekannten Stand der Technik die Aufgabe zugrunde, eine Zündeinrichtung für eine Verbrennungskraftmaschine herzustellen, die eine erhöhte Lebensdauer und eine vereinfachte und kostengünstige Fertigung aufweist.The invention is based on that from the EP 0 774 812 A1 known prior art task to produce an ignition device for an internal combustion engine, which has an increased life and a simplified and cost-effective production.

Diese Aufgabe wird durch eine Zündeinrichtung mit den Merkmalen des Patentanspruchs 1 gelöst. Ein Verfahren zur Herstellung der Zündeinrichtung ist im Patentanspruch 12 angegeben. Vorteilhafte Ausgestaltungen und Weiterbildungen der Erfindung gehen aus den Unteransprüchen und der Beschreibung hervor.This object is achieved by an ignition device having the features of patent claim 1. A method for producing the ignition device is specified in claim 12. Advantageous embodiments and modifications of the invention will become apparent from the dependent claims and the description.

Die erfindungsgemäße Lösung ist gegeben durch eine Zündeinrichtung für eine Verbrennungskraftmaschine umfassend:

  • einen Zündkerzenkörper aus einem elektrisch leitenden Material,
  • ein elektrisches Isolierelement, das zentrisch im Zündkerzenkörper angeordnet ist,
  • eine Mittelelektrode, die zentrisch im Isolierelement angeordnet ist und von der Fußspitze des Isolierelementes vorsteht und
seitlich zur Mittelelektrode angestellte Masseelektroden, die mit dem Zündkerzenkörper verbunden sind, wobei wenigstens eine der Masseelektroden mit einer zweiten Masseelektrode im Wesentlichen auf der gleichen Biegehöhe angeordnet ist und ein erstes Masseelektrodenpaar bildet, wobei das erste Masseelektrodenpaar zu wenigstens einem weiteren Masseelektrodenpaar in Bezug auf die Spitze der Mittelelektrode höhenversetzt angeordnet ist und jede Masseelektrode zusammen mit der Mittelelektrode einen im Wesentlichen gleichen Elektrodenabstand ausbildet. Die erfindungsgemäße Zündeinrichtung kann beispielsweise in einem gasbetriebenen Industriemotor mit einem hohen Kompressionsdruck Verwendung finden.The solution according to the invention is given by an ignition device for an internal combustion engine comprising:
  • a spark plug body of an electrically conductive material,
  • an electrical insulating element, which is arranged centrally in the spark plug body,
  • a central electrode, which is arranged centrally in the insulating element and protrudes from the toe of the insulating element and
At least one of the ground electrodes is arranged with a second ground electrode substantially at the same bending height and forms a first ground electrode pair, wherein the first ground electrode pair to at least one further ground electrode pair with respect to the tip the center electrode is arranged offset in height and each ground electrode together with the Center electrode forms a substantially equal electrode spacing. The ignition device according to the invention can be used for example in a gas-powered industrial engine with a high compression pressure.

Die erfindungsgemäße Zündeinrichtung weist bezüglich ihrer Ausbildung und der Positionierung der Masseelektroden in der Zündeinrichtung erhebliche Vorteile gegenüber dem Stand der Technik auf. So wird beispielsweise durch die erfindungsgemäße Anordnung der Masseelektrodenpaare in einfacher Weise je nach Motorbetrieb vorzugsweise eine Nachjustierbarkeit der Elektrodenabstände, die der Fachwelt als Regaping bekannt ist, gewährleistet. Somit sind die Elektrodenabstände der Zündeinrichtung durch Nachbiegen der Masseelektroden immer wieder auch auf kleine im Mikrometerbereich liegende Elektrodenabstände nachjustierbar. Demnach kann die Zündeinrichtung mehrmals weiterverwendet werden, was zur Erhöhung der Lebensdauer der Zündeinrichtung führt.With regard to its design and the positioning of the ground electrodes in the ignition device, the ignition device according to the invention has considerable advantages over the prior art. For example, the inventive arrangement of the ground electrode pairs in a simple manner, depending on the engine operation, preferably a Nachjustierbarkeit the electrode distances, which is known in the art as Regaping guaranteed. Thus, the electrode spacings of the ignition device can be readjusted by bending the ground electrodes again and again to small electrode distances lying in the micrometer range. Accordingly, the ignition device can be used several times, which leads to an increase in the life of the ignition device.

Ein wesentlicher Vorteil der erfindungsgemäßen Zündeinrichtung liegt darin, dass die bisher aufwendig anzubringende Edelmetallarmierung der Masseelektroden und/oder Mittelelektroden entfällt und somit eine einfache Fertigung der erfindungsgemäßen Zündeinrichtung ermöglicht wird. Trotz der Einsparung von Edelmetallen für die Masseelektroden und/oder Mittelelektroden wird eine deutliche Steigerung der Lebensdauer der erfindungsgemäßen Zündeinrichtung durch die höhenversetzte Anordnung der Masseelektrodenpaare der Zündeinrichtung erreicht.A significant advantage of the ignition device according to the invention is that the previously expensive to install noble metal reinforcement of the ground electrodes and / or center electrodes is eliminated and thus a simple production of the ignition device according to the invention is made possible. Despite the saving of precious metals for the ground electrodes and / or center electrodes, a significant increase in the life of the ignition device according to the invention is achieved by the height-offset arrangement of the ground electrode pairs of the ignition device.

Ein weiterer wesentlicher Vorteil der erfindungsgemäßen Zündeinrichtung liegt darin, dass bei der höhenversetzten Anordnung der Masseelektrodenpaare vorzugsweise eine nahezu 360° - Abbrandfläche an der Mantelfläche der Mittelelektrode zur Verfügung steht. Bei der erfindungsgemäßen Anordnung ist ein gegenseitiges Berühren der Masseelektroden untereinander im Wesentlichen ausgeschlossen. Mit der Vergrößerung der Abbrandfläche wird gleichzeitig die Funkenaustrittsfläche vergrößert und somit eine erhöhte Lebensdauer erreicht.Another significant advantage of the ignition device according to the invention is that in the height-offset arrangement of the ground electrode pairs preferably a nearly 360 ° - Abbrandfläche on the lateral surface of the center electrode for Available. In the arrangement according to the invention a mutual contact of the ground electrodes with each other is substantially excluded. With the enlargement of the Abbrandfläche the spark exit surface is simultaneously increased and thus achieved an increased life.

Ein weiterer Vorteil der erfindungsgemäßen Zündeinrichtung besteht darin, dass der Elektrodenabstand zwischen jeder Masseelektrode und der Mittelelektrode derart eingestellt ist, dass er im Wesentlichen gleich ist. Der Elektrodenabstand befindet sich vorzugsweise im Mikrometerbereich, um eine unerwünschte Fehlzündung zu vermeiden. Da die erfindungsgemäße Zündeinrichtung eine hohe Entladungsspannung erfordert, wird mittels dieses kleinen Mikrometerbereichs das Erfordernis nach einem stabilen Betrieb ohne Fehlzündung erfüllt.Another advantage of the ignition device according to the invention is that the electrode spacing between each ground electrode and the center electrode is set to be substantially the same. The electrode spacing is preferably in the micrometer range to avoid unwanted misfire. Since the ignition device according to the invention requires a high discharge voltage, the requirement for a stable operation without misfire is fulfilled by means of this small micrometer range.

In einer vorteilhaften Ausgestaltung der erfindungsgemäßen Zündeinrichtung ist das erste Masseelektrodenpaar in Bezug auf die Spitze der Mittelelektrode tiefer als das zweite Masseelektrodenpaar angeordnet.In an advantageous embodiment of the ignition device according to the invention, the first ground electrode pair is arranged lower in relation to the tip of the center electrode than the second ground electrode pair.

In einer vorteilhaften Ausgestaltung der Erfindung ist ein drittes Masseelektrodenpaar zu dem ersten und dem zweiten Masseelektrodenpaar in Bezug auf die Spitze der Mittelelektrode derart höhenversetzt angeordnet, dass das dritte Masseelektrodenpaar tiefer als das erste Masseelektrodenpaar angeordnet ist. Dadurch kann eine zusätzliche Vergrößerung der Abbrandfläche erzielt werden.In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, a third ground electrode pair to the first and the second ground electrode pair with respect to the tip of the center electrode arranged offset in height such that the third ground electrode pair is arranged lower than the first ground electrode pair. As a result, an additional increase in the burning surface can be achieved.

In einer weiteren vorteilhaften Ausgestaltung der erfindungsgemäßen Zündeinrichtung sind die zu einem Paar gehörenden Masseelektroden am Zündkerzenkörper gegenüberliegend zueinander angeordnet. Diese Anordnung ermöglicht eine verbesserte Zugänglichkeit für ein nachträgliches Nachjustieren der einzelnen Masseelektroden.In a further advantageous embodiment of the ignition device according to the invention belonging to a pair of ground electrodes on the spark plug body are arranged opposite to each other. This arrangement allows for improved Accessibility for subsequent readjustment of the individual ground electrodes.

In einer anderen Ausgestaltung der Erfindung sind die Mittelelektrode und die Masseelektroden im Wesentlichen aus einem nichtedlen Metall ausgebildet.In another embodiment of the invention, the center electrode and the ground electrodes are formed substantially of a non-noble metal.

Dies hat den Vorteil, dass das Preis-Leistungs-Verhältnis der Zündeinrichtung mit der erfindungsgemäßen Anordnung der Masseelektrodenpaare günstiger ist als das der Zündeinrichtungen nach dem Stand der Technik. Trotzdem weist die erfindungsgemäße Zündeinrichtung in Bezug auf die Lebensdauer und die Zuverlässigkeit vergleichbare Eigenschaften wie Zündeinrichtungen mit einer Edelmetallarmierung auf.This has the advantage that the price-performance ratio of the ignition device with the inventive arrangement of the ground electrode pairs is cheaper than that of the ignition devices according to the prior art. Nevertheless, the ignition device according to the invention in terms of durability and reliability comparable properties as igniters with a noble metal reinforcement on.

Gemäß einer weiteren Ausgestaltung der erfindungsgemäßen Zündeinrichtung bestehen die Mittelelektrode und die Masseelektroden im Wesentlichen aus einer Nickelbasislegierung, umfassend Elemente wie beispielsweise Al, Si, Mn, Cr, Y, Hf. Der Vorteil einer Anwendung von Nickelbasislegierungen besteht in den reduzierten Werkstoffkosten.According to a further embodiment of the ignition device according to the invention, the center electrode and the ground electrodes consist essentially of a nickel-based alloy, comprising elements such as Al, Si, Mn, Cr, Y, Hf. The advantage of using nickel-based alloys is the reduced material costs.

Gemäß einer weiteren bevorzugten Weiterbildung der Erfindung liegt jede Endfläche der Masseelektrode der Mantelfläche der Mittelelektrode gegenüber und der Elektrodenabstand ist geringer als der Abstand der Masseelektrode zum Isolierelement. Dies hat den Vorteil, dass mehrere Masseelektrodenpaare in Bezug auf die Spitze der Mittelelektrode höhenversetzt angeordnet werden können. Die Abbrandfläche der Zündeinrichtung wird somit erhöht.According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, each end face of the ground electrode of the lateral surface of the center electrode opposite and the electrode distance is less than the distance of the ground electrode to the insulating. This has the advantage that a plurality of ground electrode pairs can be arranged offset in height with respect to the tip of the center electrode. The burning surface of the ignition device is thus increased.

In einer weiteren Ausgestaltung der Erfindung ist der Elektrodenabstand zwischen jeder Masseelektrode und der Mittelelektrode im Wesentlichen äquidistant. Dies führt zu einem gleichmäßigen Abbrand der Masseelektroden und der Mittelelektrode. Zusätzlich wird bei jeder einzelnen Masseelektrode ein im Mikrometerbereich reduzierter Elektrodenabstand zwischen Masseelektrode und Mittelelektrode möglich, der zu einer Senkung des Spannungsbedarfsanstiegs über Laufzeit führen kann. Des Weiteren wird der Zündfunken direkt als Luftfunken ausgebildet. Ein Gleiten des Luftfunkens über die Fußspitze des Isolierelements findet somit nicht statt.In a further embodiment of the invention, the electrode spacing between each ground electrode and the center electrode is substantially equidistant. This leads to a uniform burnup of the ground electrodes and the center electrode. In addition, with each individual ground electrode, a reduced electrode distance between ground electrode and center electrode in the micrometer range is possible, which can lead to a reduction in the voltage requirement increase over the runtime. Furthermore, the spark is formed directly as air sparks. A gliding of the air spark on the toe of the insulating thus does not take place.

In einer anderen bevorzugten Ausgestaltung der Erfindung liegt der Elektrodenabstand etwa zwischen 200µm bis 600µm, vorzugsweise bei 300µm. Der kleine Elektrodenabstand im Mikrometerbereich ist insbesondere für Zündeinrichtungen für den Einsatz in gasbetriebenen Industriemotoren mit hohen Kompressionsdrücken von großer Bedeutung, da ein besonders kleiner Elektrodenabstand zur Senkung des Entladungsspannungsbedarfs führt.In another preferred embodiment of the invention, the electrode spacing is approximately between 200 .mu.m to 600 .mu.m, preferably at 300 .mu.m. The small electrode spacing in the micrometer range is particularly important for ignition devices for use in gas-powered industrial engines with high compression pressures of great importance, since a particularly small electrode spacing leads to a reduction in the discharge voltage requirement.

In einer weiteren bevorzugten Ausgestaltung der erfindungsgemäßen Zündeinrichtung ist der Elektrodenabstand durch Nachbiegen der Masseelektroden nachjustierbar. Der Vorteil dieser Ausgestaltung ermöglicht im Motorbetrieb in regelmäßigen Wartungsintervallen ein Nachjustieren auf kleine Elektrodenabstände vorzugsweise 300µm. Ein mehrmaliges Verwenden von diesen Zündeinrichtungen ist damit gegeben.In a further preferred embodiment of the ignition device according to the invention, the electrode spacing can be readjusted by bending the ground electrodes. The advantage of this refinement makes it possible to readjust to small electrode spacings, preferably 300 .mu.m, during engine operation at regular maintenance intervals. A repeated use of these ignition devices is given.

Gemäß einer weiteren vorteilhaften Ausgestaltung der Erfindung bildet jede Masseelektrode mit der Mittelelektrode über den Elektrodenabstand eine Luftfunkenstrecke. Durch die höhenversetzte Anordnung der Masseelektrodenpaare ergeben sich vorzugsweise wenigstens vier Luftfunkenstrecken in Größenordnung zwischen 200µm und 600µm, vorzugsweise 300µm. Dabei entspricht der Abstand der Luftfunkenstrecke zwischen der Masseelektrode und der Mittelelektrode im Wesentlichen dem Elektrodenabstand.According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, each ground electrode forms an air gap with the center electrode over the electrode gap. The height-offset arrangement of the ground electrode pairs preferably results in at least four air gaps ranging in size between 200 .mu.m and 600 .mu.m, preferably 300 .mu.m. The distance between the air gap between the ground electrode and the center electrode substantially the electrode gap.

Ein weiterer Gegenstand der vorliegenden Erfindung betrifft ein Verfahren zur Positionierung von wenigstens einer Masseelektrode in der Zündeinrichtung umfassend folgende Schritte:

  • Anbringen eines führenden Endes einer ersten und einer zweiten Masseelektrode auf die Stirnfläche eines Zündkerzenkörpers derart, dass ein erstes Masseelektrodenpaar gebildet wird,
  • Anbringen eines führenden Endes einer dritten und einer vierten Masseelektrode auf die Stirnfläche des Zündkerzenkörpers derart, dass ein zweites zu dem ersten Masseelektrodenpaar in Bezug auf die Spitze der Mittelelektrode höhenversetztes Masseelektrodenpaar gebildet wird,
  • Biegen der ersten und zweiten Masseelektrode des ersten Masseelektrodenpaars in Richtung der Mittelachse der Zündeinrichtung,
  • Ausstanzen der ersten und zweiten Masseelektrode des ersten Masseelektrodenpaars derart, dass zwischen jeder Masseelektrode des ersten Masseelektrodenpaars und der Mittelelektrode ein im Wesentlichen gleicher Elektrodenabstand gebildet wird,
  • Biegen der dritten und vierten Masseelektrode des zweiten Masseelektrodenpaars in Richtung der Mittelachse der Zündeinrichtung,
  • Ausstanzen der dritten und vierten Masseelektrode des zweiten Masseelektrodenpaars derart, dass zwischen jeder Masseelektrode des zweiten Masseelektrodenpaars und der Mittelelektrode ein im Wesentlichen gleicher Elektrodenabstand gebildet wird.
Another object of the present invention relates to a method for positioning at least one ground electrode in the ignition device comprising the following steps:
  • Attaching a leading end of a first and a second ground electrode to the end face of a spark plug body such that a first ground electrode pair is formed,
  • Attaching a leading end of a third and a fourth ground electrode to the end face of the spark plug body so as to form a second ground electrode pair offset in height from the first ground electrode pair with respect to the tip of the center electrode,
  • Bending the first and second ground electrodes of the first ground electrode pair in the direction of the center axis of the ignition device,
  • Punching out the first and second ground electrodes of the first ground electrode pair such that a substantially equal electrode gap is formed between each ground electrode of the first ground electrode pair and the center electrode,
  • Bending the third and fourth ground electrodes of the second ground electrode pair in the direction of the center axis of the ignition device,
  • Punching out the third and fourth ground electrodes of the second ground electrode pair such that a substantially equal pitch is formed between each ground electrode of the second ground electrode pair and the center electrode.

Ein wesentlicher Vorteil des erfindungsgemäßen Verfahrens liegt darin, dass sich durch die erfindungsgemäße Positionierung der Masseelektrodenpaare vordefinierte Elektrodenabstände im Mikrometerbereich kostengünstig und mit einem Minimum an Verfahrensschritten einstellen lassen. Zusätzlich ermöglichen die kleinen Elektrodenabstände in Verbindung mit einer Erhöhung der Abbrandfläche eine Zunahme der Lebensdauer der Zündeinrichtung ohne Einsatz von Edelmetallen.A significant advantage of the method according to the invention is that predefined electrode distances in the micrometer range can be set cost-effectively and with a minimum of method steps by positioning the ground electrode pairs according to the invention. In addition, the small electrode spacings in conjunction with an increase in burnup area allow for an increase in the life of the igniter without the use of precious metals.

Ein weiterer Vorteil des erfindungsgemäßen Verfahrens liegt darin, dass durch das höhenversetzte Anbringen der seitlich angeordneten Masseelektroden eine große Abbrandfläche genutzt werden kann, wodurch eine Reduzierung des Spannungsbedarfsanstiegs über Laufzeit ermöglicht wird.A further advantage of the method according to the invention is that the height-offset attachment of the laterally arranged ground electrodes makes it possible to use a large burnup area, which makes it possible to reduce the rise in the voltage requirement over the runtime.

Der Gegenstand der Erfindung zeigt den wesentlichen Vorteil, dass auch über ein Anbringen von seitlichen Masseelektroden der Elektrodenabstand nachjustiert werden kann.The object of the invention shows the significant advantage that the electrode spacing can also be readjusted by attaching lateral ground electrodes.

Alternativ zu dem beschriebenen Verfahren kann die Abfolge der Verfahrensschritte derart verändert werden, dass nachdem die Masseelektroden des ersten und zweiten Masseelektrodenpaars auf die Stirnfläche des Zündkerzenkörpers angebracht werden, diese in Richtung der Mittelachse der Zündeinrichtung in einem Verfahrensschritt Biegen gebogen werden. Anschließend werden die Masseelektroden des ersten und zweiten Masseelektrodenpaars wiederum in einem Verfahrensschritt Ausstanzen derart ausgestanzt, dass zwischen jeder Masseelektrode und der Mittelelektrode ein im Wesentlichen gleicher Elektrodenabstand gebildet wird.As an alternative to the described method, the sequence of method steps can be changed such that after the ground electrodes of the first and second ground electrode pair are mounted on the end face of the spark plug body, they are bent in the direction of the center axis of the ignition device in a bending step. Subsequently, the ground electrodes of the first and second ground electrode pair are punched out again in a punching process step such that a substantially equal electrode gap is formed between each ground electrode and the center electrode.

Alternativ zu dieser Ausführung können die Masseelektroden der Masseelektrodenpaare ohne Einhalten einer Reihenfolge auf die Stirnfläche des Zündkerzenkörpers angebracht werden.As an alternative to this embodiment, the ground electrodes of the ground electrode pairs may be mounted on the end face of the spark plug body without respecting any order.

In einer besonders vorteilhaften Ausgestaltung des erfindungsgemäßen Verfahrens wird zwischen jeder Masseelektrode und der Mittelelektrode ein im Wesentlichen gleicher Elektrodenabstand gebildet. Der Elektrodenabstand wird zwischen 200µm und 600µm eingestellt, vorzugsweise 300µm, um eine Fehlzündung zu vermeiden. Da die erfindungsgemäße Zündeinrichtung eine niedrige Entladungsspannung ermöglicht, wird mittels einem Elektrodenabstand zwischen 200µm und 600µm das Erfordernis nach einem stabilen Betrieb ohne Fehlzündung erfüllt.In a particularly advantageous embodiment of the method according to the invention, a substantially equal electrode spacing is formed between each ground electrode and the center electrode. The electrode spacing is set between 200μm and 600μm, preferably 300μm, to avoid misfire. Since the ignition device according to the invention enables a low discharge voltage, the requirement for stable operation without misfire is met by means of an electrode spacing of between 200 μm and 600 μm.

In einer vorteilhaften Ausgestaltung des erfindungsgemäßen Verfahrens wird ein drittes Masseelektrodenpaar zu dem ersten und dem zweiten Masseelektrodenpaar im Bezug auf die Spitze der Mittelelektrode derart höhenversetzt angebracht, dass das dritte Masseelektrodenpaar tiefer als das erste Masseelektrodenpaar angeordnet wird, wodurch zusätzlich die Abbrandfläche erhöht wird.In an advantageous embodiment of the method according to the invention, a third ground electrode pair to the first and the second ground electrode pair with respect to the tip of the center electrode mounted in such a height offset, that the third ground electrode pair is arranged lower than the first ground electrode pair, which additionally increases the burning surface.

In einer weiteren vorteilhaften Ausgestaltung des erfindungsgemäßen Verfahrens werden die Masseelektroden derart nachgebogen, dass der Elektrodenabstand nachjustiert wird.In a further advantageous embodiment of the method according to the invention, the ground electrodes are bent in such a way that the electrode spacing is readjusted.

Der Vorteil des erfindungsgemäßen Verfahrens ermöglicht im Motorbetrieb je nach Bedarf ein Nachjustieren auf kleine im Mikrometerbereich befindliche Elektrodenabstände, vorzugsweise 300µm, damit bis Laufzeitende niedrige Rohemissionen möglich sind. Somit können die erfindungsgemäßen Zündeinrichtungen mit den erfindungsgemäß positionierten Masseelektroden mehrmals verwendet werden.The advantage of the method according to the invention makes it possible in motor operation, as needed, to readjust to small electrode spacings in the micrometer range, preferably 300 .mu.m, so that low raw emissions are possible until the end of the runtime. Thus, the ignition devices according to the invention can be used several times with the ground electrodes positioned according to the invention.

In einer anderen vorteilhaften Ausgestaltung des erfindungsgemäßen Verfahrens werden die Masseelektroden mit äquidistanten Radien in Bezug auf die Mantelfläche der Mittelelektrode ausgestanzt.In another advantageous embodiment of the method according to the invention, the ground electrodes with equidistant Radien punched out with respect to the lateral surface of the center electrode.

Ein Vorteil dieser Ausgestaltung liegt darin, dass ein gleichmäßiger Abbrand der Masseelektroden und der Mittelelektrode stattfindet.An advantage of this embodiment is that a uniform erosion of the ground electrodes and the center electrode takes place.

Nachfolgend werden die erfindungsgemäßen Gegenstände anhand den Ausführungsbeispielen und den Figuren 1 bis 3 näher erläutert. Hierbei gehen aus den Figuren und ihrer Beschreibung weitere Merkmale und Vorteile der Erfindung hervor. Dabei zeigen:

Fig. 1
Eine schematische Ansicht einer Zündkerzeneinrichtung mit einem ersten und zweiten Masseelektrodenpaar, die gegeneinander höhenversetzt sind
Fig. 2
Eine schematische Darstellung einer Querschnittsansicht eines brennraumseitigen Endes einer Zündeinrichtung
Fig. 3
Eine schematische Darstellung einer Querschnittsansicht eines brennraumseitigen Endes einer Zündeinrichtung
The objects according to the invention with reference to the embodiments and the FIGS. 1 to 3 explained in more detail. Here are from the figures and their description further features and advantages of the invention. Showing:
Fig. 1
A schematic view of a spark plug device with a first and second ground electrode pair, which are offset in height relative to each other
Fig. 2
A schematic representation of a cross-sectional view of a combustion chamber end of an ignition device
Fig. 3
A schematic representation of a cross-sectional view of a combustion chamber end of an ignition device

Die Figur 1 stellt schematisch eine beispielhafte Ausführungsform der erfindungsgemäßen Zündeinrichtung 10 für eine Verbrennungskraftmaschine, die als eine Zündkerze ausgestaltet ist, dar. Die Zündeinrichtung 10 weist einen zylindrischen Zündkerzenkörper 1 aus Metall auf, in dem zentrisch ein keramisches Isolierelement 3 angeordnet ist. Aus dem Isolierelement 3 ragt die Spitze der aus einem nichtedlen Metall ausgebildeten Mittelelektrode 2 in den (nicht gezeigten) Brennraum der Verbrennungskraftmaschine hinein. Das keramische Isolierelement 3 enthält die Mittelelektrode 2 der Zündeinrichtung 10. Die Mittelelektrode 2 ist im keramischen Isolierelement 3 axial angeordnet und steht von der Fußspitze des Isolierelementes 31 vor. Durch die Mittelelektrode 2 verläuft zentrisch die Mittelachse 6 der Zündeinrichtung 10. An der Stirnfläche des zylindrischen Zündkerzenkörpers 1 ist ein erstes Masseelektrodenpaar 4 derart angebracht, dass das führende Ende der ersten und der zweiten Masseelektrode 41, 42 des ersten Masseelektrodenpaars 4 mittels Schweißen an der Stirnfläche des zylindrischen Zündkerzenkörpers 1 befestigt ist. 90° versetzt zu dem ersten Masseelektrodenpaar 4 ist auf der Stirnfläche des Zündkerzenkörpers 1 ein zweites Masseelektrodenpaar 5 derart befestigt, dass das führende Ende der dritten und der vierten Masseelektrode 51, 52 des zweiten Masseelektrodenpaars 5 mittels Schweißen an der Stirnfläche des zylindrischen Zündkerzenkörpers 1 befestigt ist. Für die aus einem nichtedlen Metall, aus einer Nickelbasislegierung, ausgebildeten Masseelektroden 41, 42, 51, 52 werden Elektrodendrähte mit Maßen der Größenordnung 1,7mm x 2,7mm verwendet. Nach dem Schweißen werden die erste und die zweite Masseelektrode 41, 42 des ersten Masseelektrodenpaars 4 in Richtung der Mittelachse 6 der Zündeinrichtung 10 derart gebogen, dass die Masseelektroden 41, 42 des ersten Masseelektrodenpaares 4 in Bezug auf die Spitze 21 der Mittelelektrode 2 auf die gleiche Biegehöhe positioniert sind. Danach werden die erste und die zweite Masseelektrode 41, 42 des ersten Masseelektrodenpaars 4 mit äquidistantem Radius mittels eines Stempels mit einem Durchmesser zwischen 3,4mm und 3,6mm, abhängig von dem Mittelelektrodendurchmesser und dem Elektrodenabstand, ausgestanzt. Die Masseelektroden 41, 42 des ersten Masseelektrodenpaars 4 sind auf die gleiche Biegehöhe gegenüberliegend zueinander ausgerichtet. In einem weiteren Verfahrensschritt werden die dritte und die vierte Masseelektrode 51, 52 des zweiten Masseelektrodenpaars 5 in Richtung der Mittelachse 6 der Zündeinrichtung 10 derart gebogen, dass die Masseelektroden 51, 52 des zweiten Masseelektrodenpaars 5 in Bezug auf die Spitze 21 der Mittelelektrode 2 auf die gleiche Biegehöhe positioniert sind. Danach werden die dritte und die vierte Masseelektrode 51, 52 des zweiten Masseelektrodenpaars 5 mit äquidistantem Radius mittels eines Stempels mit einem Durchmesser zwischen 3,4mm und 3,6mm, abhängig von dem Mittelelektrodendurchmesser und dem Elektrodenabstand, ausgestanzt. In Bezug auf die Mittelelektrode 2 sind die Masseelektroden 51, 52 des zweiten Masseelektrodenpaares 5 auf die gleiche Biegehöhe gegenüberliegend zueinander ausgerichtet, wobei das zweite Masseelektrodenpaar 5 zum ersten Masseelektrodenpaar 4 in Bezug auf die Spitze 21 der Mittelelektrode 2 derart höhenversetzt angeordnet ist, dass das erste Masseelektrodenpaar 4 in Bezug auf die Spitze 21 der Mittelelektrode 2 tiefer angeordnet ist als das zweite Masseelektrodenpaar 5. Der Abstand der Masseelektroden 41, 42, 51, 52 zur Mittelelektrode 2, der sog. Elektrodenabstand g1 und damit die Luftfunkenstrecke, entspricht in etwa dem Funkenweg des Luftfunkens, der aus der Mittelelektrode 2 austritt und auf die der Mittelelektrode 2 zugewandten Endfläche der Masseelektroden 41a, 42a, 51a, 52a überspringt. Wie in Figur 2 und 3 gezeigt, wird der Elektrodenabstand g1 somit zwischen der der Mittelelektrode 2 zugewandten Endfläche der Masseelektroden 41a, 42a, 51a, 52a und der Mantelfläche der Mittelelektrode 2 gebildet. Jede der vier Masseelektroden 41, 42, 51, 52 bildet zusammen mit der Mittelelektrode 2 den gleichen Elektrodenabstand g1 bzw. die gleiche Luftfunkenstrecke aus, sodass der Elektrodenabstand g1 zwischen jeder Masseelektrode 41, 42, 51, 52 und der Mittelelektrode 2 äquidistant ist. Der Elektrodenabstand g1 beträgt 300µm. Abhängig vom Verschleiß wird der Elektrodenabstand g1 durch Nachbiegen der Masseelektroden 41, 42, 51, 52 auf 300µm nachjustiert. Der Elektrodenabstand g1 ist geringer als der Abstand g2 der Masseelektroden 41, 42, 51, 52 zum Isolierelement 3, sodass nur eine Luftfunkenstrecke, die dem Elektrodenabstand g1 entspricht, ausgebildet ist.The FIG. 1 schematically illustrates an exemplary embodiment of the inventive ignition device 10 for an internal combustion engine, which is designed as a spark plug. The ignition device 10 has a cylindrical spark plug body 1 made of metal, in which a ceramic insulating element 3 is arranged centrally. From the insulating member 3, the tip of the center electrode 2 formed of a non-noble metal projects into the combustion chamber (not shown) of the internal combustion engine. The ceramic insulating member 3 includes the center electrode 2 of the igniter 10. The center electrode 2 is disposed axially in the ceramic insulating member 3 and protrudes from the toe of the insulating member 31 before. Centrally center axis 6 of ignition device 10 extends through center electrode 2. A first ground electrode pair 4 is attached to the end surface of cylindrical spark plug body 1 such that the leading end of first and second ground electrodes 41, 42 of first ground electrode pair 4 are welded to the end surface by welding of the cylindrical spark plug body 1 is fixed. 90 ° offset to the first ground electrode pair 4, a second ground electrode pair 5 is fixed on the end face of the spark plug body 1 such that the leading end of the third and fourth ground electrodes 51, 52 of the second ground electrode pair 5 is fixed to the end face of the cylindrical spark plug body 1 by welding , For the ground electrodes 41, 42, 51, 52 made of a non-noble metal, made of a nickel-based alloy, electrode wires having dimensions of the order of 1.7 mm × 2.7 mm are used. After welding, the first and second ground electrodes 41, 42 of the first ground electrode pair 4 are bent toward the central axis 6 of the ignitor 10 such that the ground electrodes 41, 42 of the first ground electrode pair 4 with respect to the tip 21 of the center electrode 2 are the same Bending height are positioned. Thereafter, the first and second ground electrodes 41, 42 of the first ground electrode pair 4 of equidistant radius are punched out by means of a punch having a diameter of 3.4 mm to 3.6 mm, depending on the center electrode diameter and the electrode gap. The ground electrodes 41, 42 of the first ground electrode pair 4 are aligned with each other at the same bending height. In a further method step, the third and the fourth ground electrode 51, 52 of the second ground electrode pair 5 are bent in the direction of the central axis 6 of the ignition device 10 such that the ground electrodes 51, 52 of the second ground electrode pair 5 with respect to the tip 21 of the center electrode 2 are positioned at the same bending height. Thereafter, the third and fourth ground electrodes 51, 52 of the second pair of ground electrodes 5 of equidistant radius are punched out by means of a punch having a diameter of 3.4 mm to 3.6 mm depending on the center electrode diameter and the electrode gap. With respect to the center electrode 2, the ground electrodes 51, 52 of the second ground electrode pair 5 are aligned with each other at the same bending height, with the second ground electrode pair 5 being disposed offset in height from the first ground electrode pair 4 with respect to the tip 21 of the center electrode 2 Ground electrode pair 4 with respect to the tip 21 of the center electrode 2 is arranged deeper than the second ground electrode pair 5. The distance of the ground electrodes 41, 42, 51, 52 to the center electrode 2, the so-called. Electrode gap g1 and thus the air gap, corresponds approximately to the spark gap of the air spark emerging from the center electrode 2 and jumping to the center electrode 2 facing end surface of the ground electrodes 41a, 42a, 51a, 52a. As in FIG. 2 and 3 Thus, the electrode gap g1 is thus formed between the end surface of the ground electrodes 41a, 42a, 51a, 52a facing the center electrode 2 and the circumferential surface of the center electrode 2. Each of the four ground electrodes 41, 42, 51, 52 forms the same electrode gap g1 and the same air gap together with the center electrode 2, so that the electrode gap g1 between each ground electrode 41, 42, 51, 52 and the center electrode 2 is equidistant. The electrode gap g1 is 300μm. Depending on the wear, the electrode gap g1 is readjusted by bending the ground electrodes 41, 42, 51, 52 to 300 .mu.m. The electrode gap g1 is smaller than the distance g2 of the ground electrodes 41, 42, 51, 52 to the insulating member 3, so that only one air gap corresponding to the electrode gap g1 is formed.

In einer zweiten Ausführungsform ist ein drittes (nicht gezeigtes) Masseelektrodenpaar zu dem ersten und dem zweiten Masseelektrodenpaar 4, 5 in Bezug auf die Spitze 21 der Mittelelektrode 2 derart höhenversetzt angeordnet, dass das dritte Masseelektrodenpaar tiefer in Bezug auf die Spitze 21 der Mittelelektrode 2 als das erste Masseelektrodenpaar 4 angeordnet ist. In Bezug auf die Spitze 21 der Mittelelektrode 2 ist das zweite Masseelektrodenpaar 5 höher als das erste Masseelektrodenpaar 4 und das dritte Masseelektrodenpaar angeordnet, wobei das dritte Masseelektrodenpaar tiefer als das erste Masseelektrodenpaar 4 angeordnet ist. Dabei sind die Masseelektroden der ersten, zweiten und dritten Masseelektrodenpaare zur Stirnfläche des zylindrischen Zündkerzenkörpers 1 um etwa 60° versetzt angeordnet.In a second embodiment, a third (not shown) ground electrode pair to the first and second ground electrode pair 4, 5 with respect to the top 21 of the center electrode 2 arranged offset in height such that the third ground electrode pair deeper with respect to the tip 21 of the center electrode 2 as the first ground electrode pair 4 is arranged. With respect to the tip 21 of the center electrode 2, the second ground electrode pair 5 is disposed higher than the first ground electrode pair 4 and the third ground electrode pair, with the third ground electrode pair being disposed lower than the first ground electrode pair 4. In this case, the ground electrodes of the first, second and third pairs of ground electrode are arranged offset to the end face of the cylindrical spark plug body 1 by approximately 60 °.

An der Stirnfläche des zylindrischen Zündkerzenkörpers 1 ist das dritte (nicht gezeigte) Masseelektrodenpaar entsprechend dem in der ersten Ausführungsform beschriebenen Verfahren angebracht. Für die aus einem nichtedlen Metall, aus einer Nickelbasislegierung, ausgebildeten Masseelektroden des dritten Masseelektrodenpaars werden wie in der ersten Ausführungsform beschrieben Elektrodendrähte mit Maßen der Größenordnung 1,7mm x 2,7mm verwendet.On the end face of the cylindrical spark plug body 1, the third ground electrode pair (not shown) is mounted according to the method described in the first embodiment. For the ground electrodes of the third ground electrode pair formed of a non-noble metal made of a nickel-based alloy, electrode wires having dimensions of the order of 1.7 mm × 2.7 mm are used as described in the first embodiment.

Die Positionierung der Masseelektroden des ersten, zweiten und dritten Masseelektrodenpaars erfolgt derart, dass als erstes die Masseelektroden des am tiefstliegenden Masseelektrodenpaars, das dritte Masseelektrodenpaar, in Bezug auf die Spitze 21 der Mittelelektrode 2 an der Stirnfläche des zylindrischen Zündkerzenkörpers 1 geschweißt werden. Danach werden die Masseelektroden 41, 42 des mittleren Masseelektrodenpaars, das erste Masseelektrodenpaar 4, in Bezug auf die Spitze 21 der Mittelelektrode 2 an der Stirnfläche des zylindrischen Zündkerzenkörpers 1 geschweißt. Anschließend werden die Masseelektroden 51, 52 des obersten Masseelektrodenpaars, das zweite Masseelektrodenpaar 5, in Bezug auf die Spitze 21 der Mittelelektrode 2 an der Stirnfläche des zylindrischen Zündkerzenkörpers 1 geschweißt. Nachfolgend werden die Masseelektroden des dritten Masseelektrodenpaars gebogen und ausgestanzt. In einem weiteren Verfahrensschritt werden die Masseelektroden 41, 42 des ersten Masseelektrodenpaars 4 gebogen und ausgestanzt. Anschließend werden die Masseelektroden 51, 52 des zweiten Masseelektrodenpaars 5 gebogen und ausgestanzt. Jede Masseelektrode bildet zusammen mit der Mittelelektrode 2 den gleichen Elektrodenabstand g1 aus.The positioning of the ground electrodes of the first, second and third ground electrode pairs is performed by first welding the ground electrodes of the lowest ground electrode pair, the third ground electrode pair, with respect to the tip 21 of the center electrode 2 on the end face of the cylindrical spark plug body 1. Thereafter, the ground electrodes 41, 42 of the middle ground electrode pair, the first ground electrode pair 4, with respect to the tip 21 of the center electrode 2 at the end face of the cylindrical spark plug body 1 welded. Subsequently, the ground electrodes 51, 52 of the uppermost ground electrode pair, the second ground electrode pair 5, are welded to the end face of the cylindrical spark plug body 1 with respect to the tip 21 of the center electrode 2. Subsequently, the ground electrodes of the third ground electrode pair are bent and punched out. In a further method step, the ground electrodes 41, 42 of the first ground electrode pair 4 are bent and punched out. Subsequently, the ground electrodes 51, 52 of the second ground electrode pair 5 are bent and punched out. Each ground electrode forms the same electrode gap g1 together with the center electrode 2.

Die Erfindung ist nicht nur auf die beschriebenen Beispiele beschränkt, sondern weitere Masseelektrodenpaare können höhenversetzt in Bezug auf die Spitze der Mittelelektrode angeordnet werden.The invention is not limited only to the examples described, but other ground electrode pairs can be arranged offset in height with respect to the tip of the center electrode.

Des Weiteren besteht die Möglichkeit die Masseelektroden zusätzlich mit einer Edelmetalllegierung zu armieren. Weiterhin ist denkbar, dass die Masseelektroden aus anderen metallischen Werkstoffen hergestellt werden.Furthermore, it is possible to additionally arm the ground electrodes with a noble metal alloy. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the ground electrodes are made of other metallic materials.

Eine zusätzliche Möglichkeit besteht darin, dass die Masseelektroden der Masseelektrodenpaare an der Stirnfläche des zylindrischen Zündkerzenkörpers auf einen anderen als 90°- oder 60°-Winkel versetzt angeordnet sind.An additional possibility is that the ground electrodes of the ground electrode pairs are arranged offset on the end face of the cylindrical spark plug body to another than 90 ° or 60 ° angle.

Zusätzlich können für die Masseelektroden Elektrodendrähte mit anderen Maßen verwendet werden. Des Weiteren kann der Stempel, mit dem die Masseelektroden ausgestanzt werden, verschiedene Durchmesser aufweisen.In addition, electrode wires of other dimensions may be used for the ground electrodes. Furthermore, the punch with which the ground electrodes are punched out may have different diameters.

Die Erfindung lässt sich allgemein auf Zündeinrichtungen anwenden.The invention is generally applicable to igniters.

BezugszeichenlisteLIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1 -1 -
Zündkerzenkörperspark plug body
2 -2 -
Mittelelektrodecenter electrode
21 -21 -
Spitze der MittelelektrodeTip of the center electrode
33
- Isolierelement- Insulating element
31 -31 -
Fußspitze des IsolierelementesToe of the insulating element
44
- erstes Masseelektrodenpaar- first ground electrode pair
41 -41 -
erste Masseelektrode vom ersten Masseelektrodenpaarfirst ground electrode of the first ground electrode pair
41a -41a -
der Mittelelektrode 2 zugewandten Endfläche der Masseelektrode 41the center electrode 2 facing end surface of the ground electrode 41st
42 -42 -
zweite Masseelektrode vom ersten Masseelektrodenpaarsecond ground electrode of the first ground electrode pair
42a -42a -
der Mittelelektrode 2 zugewandten Endfläche der Masseelektrode 42the center electrode 2 facing end surface of the ground electrode 42nd
5 -5 -
zweites Masseelektrodenpaarsecond ground electrode pair
51 -51 -
dritte Masseelektrode vom zweiten Masseelektrodenpaarthird ground electrode from the second ground electrode pair
51a -51a -
der Mittelelektrode 2 zugewandten Endfläche der Masseelektrode 51the center electrode 2 facing end surface of the ground electrode 51st
52 -52 -
vierte Masseelektrode vom zweiten Masseelektrodenpaarfourth ground electrode of the second ground electrode pair
52a -52a -
der Mittelelektrode 2 zugewandten Endfläche der Masseelektrode 52the center electrode 2 facing end surface of the ground electrode 52nd
6 -6 -
Mittelachse der ZündeinrichtungCenter axis of the ignition device
10 -10 -
Zündeinrichtungignition device

Claims (17)

  1. Ignition device, particularly ignition plug for an internal combustion engine, comprising:
    - an ignition plug body (1) made of an electrically conductive material,
    - an electric insulating element (3) which is centrically arranged in the ignition plug body (1),
    - a center electrode (2) which is centrically arranged in the insulating element (3) and protrudes from the tip (31) of the foot of the insulating element (3) and
    - ground electrodes (41, 42; 51, 52) which are positioned sideways of the center electrode (2) and are connected to the ignition plug body (1), wherein at least the bend of a first ground electrode (41) and of a second ground electrode (42) are located substantially at the same height and together form a first pair (4) of ground electrodes, which pair is offset from at least a further pair (5) of ground electrodes with regard to the tip (21) of the center electrode (2),
    characterized in,
    that between the center electrode (2) and each of the ground electrodes (41, 42; 51, 52) there is established substantially the same width (g1) of the electrode gap.
  2. Ignition device according to claim 1,
    characterized in, that with reference to the tip (21) of the center electrode (2) the first pair (4) of ground electrodes is arranged at a lower level than the second pair (5) of ground electrodes.
  3. Ignition device according to claim 1 and 2,
    characterized in, that with reference to the tip (21) of the center electrode (2) a third pair of ground electrodes is offset from the first and second pairs (4, 5) of ground electrodes in such a way, that the third pair of ground electrodes is arranged at a lower level than the first pair (4) of ground electrodes.
  4. Ignition device according to any of claims 1 to 3,
    characterized in, that the ground electrodes (41, 42; 51, 52) which belong to a pair (4, 5) are located opposite to each other at the ignition plug body (1).
  5. Ignition device according to any of claims 1 to 4,
    characterized in, that the center electrode (2) and the ground electrodes (41, 42; 51, 52) are formed substantially of a common metal.
  6. Ignition device according to claim 5,
    characterized in, that the center electrode (2) and the ground electrodes (41, 42; 51, 52) are substantially formed from a nickel-base alloy.
  7. Ignition device according to any of claims 1 to 6,
    characterized in, that each end face (42a, 52a) of the ground electrodes (41, 42; 51, 52) is positioned opposite to the lateral surface of the center electrode (2) and that the width of the electrode gap (g1) is smaller than the distance (g2) between the ground electrodes (41, 42; 51, 52) and the insulating element (3).
  8. Ignition device according to any of the preceding claims,
    characterized in, that the electrode gap between the center electrode (2) and each of the ground electrodes (41, 42; 51, 52) has substantially the same width (g1).
  9. Ignition device according to claim 8,
    characterized in, that the width (g1) of the electrode gap ranges from about 200 µm to 600 µm.
  10. Ignition device according to any of the preceding claims,
    characterized in, that the width (g1) of the electrode gap can be re-adjusted by further bending the ground electrodes (41, 42; 51, 52).
  11. Ignition device according to any of the preceding claims,
    characterized in, that the electrode gap (g1) between the center electrode (2) and each of the ground electrodes (41, 42; 51, 52) forms a spark gap in air.
  12. Method of positioning ground electrodes in the ignition device according to any of the claims 11 to 11 by
    - mounting a leading end of a first and a second ground electrode (41, 42) on the end face of an ignition plug body (1) in such a way that a first pair (4) of ground electrodes is formed, and
    - mounting a leading end of a third and a fourth ground electrode (51, 52) on the end face of the ignition plug body (1) in such a way, that a second pair (5) of ground electrodes is formed the height of which in relation to the tip (21) of the center electrode (2) is offset from the height of the first pair (4) of ground electrodes,
    characterized in,
    that it comprises the following further steps:
    - bending the first and second ground electrode (41, 42) of the first pair (4) of ground electrodes towards the central axis (6) of the ignition device (10),
    - punching the first and second ground electrode (41, 42) of the first pair (4) of ground electrodes in such a way, that between the center electrode (2) and each of the ground electrodes (41, 42) of the second pair (4) of the ground electrodes there is formed an electrode gap having substantially an equalwidth (g1),
    - bending the third and fourth ground electrode (51, 52) of the second pair (5) of ground electrodes towards the center axis (6) of the ignition device (10),
    - punching the third and fourth ground electrode (51, 52) of the second pair (5) of ground electrodes in such a way, that between the center electrode (2) and each of the ground electrodes (51, 52) of the second pair (5) of ground electrodes there is formed an electrode gap having substantially an equal width (g1).
  13. Method according to claim 12,
    characterized in,
    that between the center electrode (2) and each of the ground electrodes (41, 42; 51, 52) there is established an electrode gap having substantially an equal width (g1).
  14. Method according to claim 12 and 13,
    characterized in,
    that a third pair of ground electrodes is so mounted that its height is offset from the height of the first and second pair (4, 5) of ground electrodes with reference to the tip (21) of the center electrode (2).
  15. Method according to any of claims 12 to 14,
    characterized in,
    that the ground electrodes (41, 42; 51, 52) are further bent in such a way, that the width (g1) of the electrode gap is re-adjusted.
  16. Method according to any of claims 12 to 15,
    characterized in,
    that the ground electrodes (41, 42; 51, 52) are punched with equidistant radii relative to the lateral surface of the ground electrode (2).
  17. Internal combustion engine having an ignition device (10) according to any of claims 1 to 11.
EP20070013763 2006-07-20 2007-07-13 Ignition device, in particular ignition plug for a combustion engine and method for positioning at least one ground electrode in the ignition device Not-in-force EP1881573B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE200610033578 DE102006033578A1 (en) 2006-07-20 2006-07-20 Ignition device, in particular spark plug for an internal combustion engine and method for positioning at least one ground electrode in the ignition device

Publications (3)

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EP1881573A2 EP1881573A2 (en) 2008-01-23
EP1881573A3 EP1881573A3 (en) 2012-05-09
EP1881573B1 true EP1881573B1 (en) 2014-02-26

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* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE102009046092B4 (en) * 2009-10-28 2017-06-14 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Spark plug with at least three height-offset ground electrodes
DE102011002167B4 (en) * 2010-12-22 2016-06-02 Federal-Mogul Ignition Gmbh Spark plug for gasoline engines
DE102012012210B4 (en) * 2012-06-21 2017-10-19 Federal-Mogul Ignition Gmbh Spark plug for gasoline engines

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE19503223C2 (en) * 1995-02-02 2000-06-08 Opel Adam Ag Spark plug for an internal combustion engine
JPH10189212A (en) * 1995-11-15 1998-07-21 Ngk Spark Plug Co Ltd Multipole spark plug
DE19704524C2 (en) * 1997-02-06 2002-06-20 Beru Werk Ruprecht Gmbh Co A Spark plug for an internal combustion engine
DE19705373C2 (en) * 1997-02-12 2000-02-03 Beru Ag Method of attaching a ground electrode to the spark plug body of a spark plug
JP4069826B2 (en) * 2003-07-30 2008-04-02 株式会社デンソー Spark plug and manufacturing method thereof

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DE102006033578A1 (en) 2008-01-31
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