What are the ignition methods for gasoline engines?

[VonRachel]

Here is a detailed introduction to the ignition methods for gasoline engines: 1. Traditional battery ignition: Using the battery and generator as the power source, the ignition coil and breaker convert the 6V, 12V, or 24V low-voltage direct current provided by the power source into high-voltage electricity. This high-voltage electricity is then distributed to each cylinder's spark plug via the distributor, generating an electric spark between the electrodes of the spark plug to ignite the combustible mixture. Traditional battery ignition systems are gradually being replaced by electronic ignition systems and computer-controlled ignition systems. 2. Electronic ignition: Using the battery and generator as the power source, the ignition coil and an ignition controller composed of transistors convert the low-voltage electricity provided by the power source into high-voltage electricity. This high-voltage electricity is then distributed to each cylinder's spark plug via the distributor, generating an electric spark between the electrodes of the spark plug to ignite the combustible mixture. Electronic ignition systems are convenient to use and widely adopted in vehicles. 3. Computer-controlled ignition: Using the battery and generator as the power source, the ignition coil converts the low-voltage electricity provided by the power source into high-voltage electricity. The distributor then distributes the high-voltage electricity to each cylinder's spark plug. The computer control system, based on information from various sensors reflecting the engine's operating conditions, sends ignition control signals to control the ignition timing and ignite the combustible mixture. The distributor can also be eliminated, with the computer control system directly distributing high-voltage electricity to each cylinder. Computer-controlled ignition systems are already widely used in various mid-range and high-end cars.

[StLena]

I've been repairing cars for thirty years, and there have been several major evolutions in gasoline engine ignition methods. The earliest was mechanical contact ignition, which relied on a distributor and contacts to control the spark plug firing. This thing was prone to wear and tear, and cars often had trouble starting due to malfunctions. Later, it evolved into an electronic ignition system, which used an electronic control unit (ECU) to precisely regulate the ignition timing, reducing contact issues and making maintenance much easier. Nowadays, most new cars use coil-on-plug ignition, where each cylinder is equipped with its own ignition coil, resulting in faster response, lower failure rates, and smoother engine operation. I remember back when I worked on older cars, if the ignition system had a problem, the engine would shake violently. With today's technology, car owners only need to occasionally replace the spark plugs.