Methods and systems are provided for operating a cylinder with a series gap igniter coupled to an ion sensing module. In one example, a method may include determining a location of an initial combustion in a cylinder from a series gap igniter based on a pressure rise rate in the cylinder, the ignition spark initiating combustion in the cylinder; and adjusting at least one setting of the cylinder based on the determined location. In this way, combustion stability and efficiency may be increased without increasing a cost and complexity of the engine.

A system includes an igniter rod having a ground rod with a first tip bent at a 90-degree angle, an internal rod with a second tip, a rod cover enclosing a portion of the internal rod, and a base tube, fixed to an external surface of the rod cover, enclosing a portion of the ground rod. The base tube has a plurality of adjustment screws that hold in place and position the ground rod. The igniter system further includes an igniter body configured to enclose a portion of the igniter rod and a fuel supply. The fuel supply is configured to be brought into contact with a gap between the first tip and the second tip.

Methods and systems are provided for operating a cylinder with a series gap igniter coupled to an ion sensing module. In one example, a method may include determining a location of an initial combustion in a cylinder from a series gap igniter based on a pressure rise rate in the cylinder, the ignition spark initiating combustion in the cylinder; and adjusting at least one setting of the cylinder based on the determined location. In this way, combustion stability and efficiency may be increased without increasing a cost and complexity of the engine.

An apparatus and a method for a circuit can include a voltage divider having a first and a second impedance in series, and having a voltage divider output. A switchable element is arranged in parallel with the first impedance and connected with the voltage divider output. The switchable element has an open state and a closed state. A spark gap device is configured to not generate a spark when the switchable element is in the open state and generate a spark when the switchable element is in the closed state.