Multicharge implementation to maximize rate of energy delivery to a spark plug gap

摘要

An ignition control system for an internal combustion engine includes a control circuit, an ignition coil, a switch, and a sensing circuit. The control circuit is configured to interrupt a primary current, thereby establishing a secondary current which is discharged to cause a spark plug coupled to the secondary winding to produce a first spark. The sensing circuit is configured to generate a secondary current signal representative of a level of secondary current. The control circuit is responsive to the secondary current signal to terminate the discharge by closing the switch to cause the primary current to again flow in preparation of a second spark. The termination of the discharge occurs when the secondary current level reaches a secondary current threshold which is determined as a function of engine speed and ambient temperature.