Patent ID: 6670777
Filing Date: 2003-12-30
Classification: F02P

Abstract:
An ignition system comprising:an igniter for creating a spark; a step-up transformer having a primary winding and a secondary winding the secondary winding being operably connected to one terminal of said igniter, a first energy storage device for providing a first amount of energy at a first voltage level, one terminal of said device being connected to a second terminal of said igniter; a first switch connected to said first energy storage device for controlling the release of energy therefrom, said first switch being connected to said one terminal of said igniter through said secondary winding of said transformer; a second energy storage device for releasing a second amount of energy at a second voltage level to said primary winding of said transformer; a second switch connected in circuit with said primary winding for controlling the release of energy from said second energy storage device through said primary winding of said transformer, said energy being transformed to a stepped-up third voltage level and applied to said igniter when said second switch is triggered into conduction; an electrical bypass connected to said first switch and said one terminal of said igniter in parallel with said secondary winding of said transformer, thereby permitting said first amount of energy to bypass said secondary winding of said transformer and be applied to said one terminal of said igniter; and, a charging circuit for charging said first and second energy storage devices; and, a controller for triggering said first and second switches.