Ignition methods and apparatus using microwave energy
AssigneeSimmonds Precision Engine Systems, Inc.
InventorsDennis Michael DeFreitas, Albert Migliori
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Abstract
An ignition apparatus for a combustor includes a microwave energy source that emits microwave energy into the combustor at a frequency within a resonant response of the combustor, the combustor functioning as a resonant cavity for the microwave energy so that a plasma is produced that ignites a combustible mixture therein. The plasma preferably is a non-contact plasma produced in free space within the resonant cavity spaced away from with the cavity wall structure and spaced from the microwave emitter.
Claims33
Ignition apparatus comprising:
- a combustor and a microwave energy source for emitting microwave energy into the combustor at a frequency within a resonant response of the combustor to produce a plasma therein.
A flame injector, comprising:
- a resonator cavity, means for introducing a first combustible mixture into said cavity, and a microwave energy source for emitting microwave energy into said cavity at a frequency within a resonant response of the cavity to produce a plasma that ignites said first mixture to produce a flame that can exit said cavity through an opening therein.
An ignition method comprising:
- a. introducing a combustible mixture into a combustor;
- b. producing microwave energy and directing the microwave energy into the combustor;
- and
- c. using the combustor as a resonator for the microwave energy to produce a plasma that ignites the combustible mixture.
An igniter for a combustor, comprising:
- a resonator cavity defined by a body;
- and
- a microwave energy source for emitting microwave energy into the cavity at a frequency within a resonant response of the cavity to produce a plasma.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.