This seems like a good idea for a rotary.  Could have multiple
ignition lenses without any loss in compression..

http://www.tomsguide.com/us/Ford-Laser-Ignition-System-Engine,news-4248.html


Matt-

"Ford and the University of Liverpool are owrking on a new laser
ignition system for automobiles.

ZoomFord is teaming up with the University of Liverpool to throw
out the old-school spark plugs and design a laser ignition
system for internal-combustion engines. According to The
Telegraph, a fiber-optic cable--powered by the car's
battery--shoots the laser beam to a focusing lens that would
consume a much smaller space than current spark plugs. The
lenses focus the beams into an intense pinprick of light, and
when the fuel is injected into the engine, the laser is fired
and produces enough heat to ignite the fuel.

The University researchers claim that the new technology--using
lasers to ignite the fuel--is more reliable and efficient than
current spark plug technology.  Although the laser will need to
fire more than 50 times per second to produce 3000 RPM, it will
require less power than current spark plugs. The lasers can also
reflect back from inside the cylinders to relay information
based on fuel type used and the level of ignition, enabling cars
to readjust the quantities of air and fuel for optimum
performance.

"Lasers can be focused and split into multiple beams to give
multiple ignition points, which means it can give a far better
chance of ignition," said Dr. Tom Shenton, leader of the
project. "This can really improve the performance of the engine
when it is cold, as this is the time when around 80 per cent of
the exhaust emissions are produced and the engine is at is least
efficient. The laser also produces more stable combustion so you
need to put less fuel into the cylinder."

Ford said that it plans to implement the new technology into its
top of the range vehicles within the next few years, and then
make the laser ignition system available for its remaining
models sometime thereafter."

Sounds good.
Not yet :) What does it do at 7500 RPM?

Paul Lamar