A novel distributor-less variable spark energy IC engine ignition system

An ignition system utilising a DC high voltage source and bulk photo-conductive switches in place of the ignition coil is shown to be practical. Systems based on this principle show significant advantages over conventional capacitive and inductive discharge systems in that the spark characteristics are more readily controlled and the system is inherently distributorless. A significant improvement in ignition system efficiency can be obtained with this type of system. Very much larger spark energies could be achieved by increasing the capacity of the low voltage invertor