AUTOMATIC SYSTEM FOR SPRING STARTING AN INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINE

摘要

A system is provided for spring starting an internal combustion engine including a convolute spring disposed about the crankshaft axis of the engine. The spring drives the crankshaft through a one-way clutch operatively connected with one end thereof. The spring is fastened to a spring casing at the other end thereof. A spring rewind drive train drivingly connects the crankshaft with the spring casing and is operable to wind the spring when the crankshaft is being rotated by the engine after starting. The spring may also be either hand wound or wound by an electric or hydraulic motor or other motive power. A unique linkage mechanism is provided for automatically controlling the winding and releasing sequences of the starter spring in response to the manipulation of a control by a human operator. The linkage mechanism is designed to rotate, expand or contract to perform the necessary functions in response to single movements of the control rod.