Direct current circuit switch
US11563433B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 2, 2020 |
| Grant date | Jan 24, 2023 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 14, 2041 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH03K17/18
- WIPO fieldBasic communication processes
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
An apparatus, system and method of controlling the supply of DC current from a power source to an electrical load provides for a protective circuit that senses the characteristics of the connected load prior to permitting the enablement of a switch connecting the supply and the load. A voltage arising from applying a constant current to the load during a time period is compared with a predetermined threshold determined by the intended capacity of the switch so that, when closed, the current through the switch is compatible with the switch. The protective circuit may be used in conjunction with semiconductor switches, electromechanical contactors or relays. A plurality of such devices may be incorporated in an enclosure and controlled by logic so as to manage the supply of power from a power source to a plurality of electrical loads having differing power requirements.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.