Laser Ignition May Replace the Spark Plug 388
dusty writes "Laser Focus World has a story on researchers from Ford, GSI, and The University of Liverpool and their success in using near-infrared lasers instead of spark plugs in automobile engines. The laser pulses are delivered to the combustion chamber one of two ways. One, the laser energy is transmitted through free space and into an optical plug. Two, the other more challenging method uses fiber optics. Attempts so far to put the second method into play have met some challenges. The researchers are confident that the fiber-optic laser cables' technical challenges (such as a 20% parasitic loss, and vibration issues) will soon be overcome. Both delivery schemes drastically reduce harmful emissions and increase performance over the use of spark plugs. So the spark plug could soon join the fax machine in the pantheon of antiquated technologies that will never completely disappear. The news release from The University of Liverpool has pictures of the freakin' internal combustion lasers."
Flashing lights (Score:5, Funny)
PETA (Score:5, Funny)
Yeah, they're gonna be pissed.
I'd be too afraid... (Score:2, Funny)
Re:misreading (Score:5, Funny)
Re:So what happens (Score:3, Funny)
Re:Stupid question (Score:3, Funny)
Re:PETA (Score:5, Funny)
Re:So what happens (Score:3, Funny)
Re:Flashing lights (Score:4, Funny)
I've seen those installed. Be assured - An adult driving a car with a red swooshing light thing does not look nearly as cool as we all remember KITT and Michael to be.
Re:Electric cars don't need no stinkin' spark plug (Score:1, Funny)
Nope, they use potpourri sented spark plugs, so much smugger.
Re:Flashing lights (Score:5, Funny)
Comment removed (Score:2, Funny)
Re:Flashing lights (Score:5, Funny)
Wait wait wait, two things
1. You're saying Members Only jackets are out of style and have been so since the 80s?
2. Who are you calling a jackass?
I'm confused (Score:3, Funny)
Re:In most likeliness (Score:5, Funny)
Re:Self Cleaning (Score:3, Funny)
Carbon don't burn too easy boss.
Re:Flashing lights (Score:5, Funny)
David Hasselhoff [youtube.com] doesn't look nearly as cool as we remember him to be either...
Re:So what happens (Score:5, Funny)
You ever had a car with Lucas electrics?
Two. One for the road and one for the mechanic.
Re:Stupid Memes (Score:4, Funny)
Re:Flashing lights (Score:5, Funny)
Nope, he still does ... :
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-3382491587979249836 [google.com]
Comment removed (Score:5, Funny)