How does a waste spark ignition system fire the plugs?

In a waste spark ignition system (WSI), the ignition coil fires two spark plugs at the same time. This is achieved by splitting the output of the ignition coil and sending it to two different spark plugs. One of these spark plugs will be firing on the compression stroke, while the other will be firing on the exhaust stroke. The spark plug that is firing on the exhaust stroke will be effectively wasted, but this does not affect the operation of the engine.

The main advantage of a WSI is that it is simpler than a conventional ignition system. This simplicity can result in improved reliability and reduced maintenance costs. WSIs are also used in some high-performance engines because they can provide a higher spark energy than a conventional ignition system.

Here is a more detailed explanation of how a WSI works:

1. The ignition coil is connected to the battery and to the distributor.

2. The distributor is a rotating switch that sends the spark to the spark plugs.

3. When the distributor is turned on, the ignition coil charges up.

4. When the distributor contacts the spark plug wire, the spark is released.

5. The spark travels down the spark plug wire and into the spark plug.

6. The spark ignites the fuel/air mixture in the cylinder.

7. The piston moves down the cylinder and the exhaust valve opens.

8. The exhaust valve opens and the burned gases are expelled from the cylinder.

9. The piston moves back up the cylinder and the intake valve opens.

10. The intake valve opens and the fresh fuel/air mixture is drawn into the cylinder.

11. The process is repeated.