Caterpillar Inc.
Laser ignition system

Abstract:

A device that includes a window, a catalyzed layer, and a laser source is disclosed. The window may include a first surface and a second surface. The catalyzed layer may be disposed on the first surface of the window. The catalyzed layer may include a compound having a threshold transmittance, and be configured to cause a reaction with soot in one or more of a combustion chamber or a pre-combustion chamber of a combustion engine at an activation temperature to reduce accumulation of soot on the window. The laser source may be disposed relative to the second surface of the window, and configured to emit a laser beam through the window and the catalyzed layer. The laser beam may be configured to cause ignition of an intake charge of one or more of the combustion chamber or the pre-combustion chamber.