Failsafe voltage regulator with warning signal driver
US5648759A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 2, 1994 |
| Grant date | Jul 15, 1997 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 2, 2014 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60T2270/414
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A voltage regulator, a device driver, and a warning signal driver are provided on a single voltage regulator integrated circuit. The voltage regulator provides a regulated voltage for external logic such as a microcontroller. The device driver selectively turns on or turns off an external device such as a relay. The warning signal driver outputs a warning signal. The integrated circuit contains sensing circuits which sense if the output voltage is out of proper regulation. In the event of a malfunction, for example when the output voltage is outside a desired voltage range, the device driver shuts off the external device and the warning signal driver generates a warning signal. The integrated circuit may also receive signals from the external logic which cause the integrated circuit to shut off the device or to generate a warning signal.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.