Method and apparatus for controlling power supplied to an electrostatic device
US6437963B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 24, 1999 |
| Grant date | Aug 20, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 24, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB05B15/14
- WIPO fieldChemical engineering
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
A method and apparatus for providing power to an electrostatic device includes a monitor and control system that prevents inadvertent and damaging electrical arcing. When the electrostatic device is first energized, voltage is gradually increased and the flow of electrical current is closely monitored. In the event the device is too close to ground or a grounded object, current flow exceeds a predetermined threshold and power is disconnected from the electrostatic device. Later, as the device voltage is increased to operating voltage, electrical current delivered to the electrostatic device is monitored for excessive current and excessive rate of change. If either fault condition is detected, power supply voltage may be reduced or disconnected, depending upon the severity of the fault. A microprocessor control system is illustrated for implementing the invention, including hardware and various software algorithms that provide the requisite gathering of information, analysis and responsive actions.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.