Kenneth W Gould

US Patent:

7063079, Jun 20, 2006

Filed:

Jun 11, 2003

Appl. No.:

10/458492

Inventors:

Garlan J. Huberts - Milford MI, US
Michael T. Nation - Ypsilanti MI, US
Guoming G. Zhu - Novi MI, US
Kevin D. Moran - Trenton MI, US
Bruce Wang - Troy MI, US
Kenneth L. Gould - Fayetteville GA, US

Assignee:

Visteon Global Technologies, Inc. - Van Buren Township MI

International Classification:

G01C 23/22

US Classification:

123630, 123652, 73 3508

Abstract:

Two embodiments of an integrated ionization detection circuit and ignition coil driver, an ASIC and a single electronic package, are disclosed. The apparatuses reduce the cost and complexity of an in-cylinder ionization detection system by combining like functionality into one ASIC or electronic module easing packaging constraints. In both embodiments, a current sink is used. The current sink removes noise in the form of voltage splices. The voltage spikes are high voltage, but of short duration. The current sink prevents these spikes from turning on the IGBT. However, the current sink allows the IGBT command signal to pass. This device also comprises a switch whereby ionization current and coil primary current are multiplexed.