Non-Volatile Overvoltage Detector Using Fuse and Zener Switch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing overvoltage detection systems struggle to distinguish between real overvoltage events and erroneous measurements, leading to difficulties in determining whether hardware or test equipment is at fault, especially in mission-critical applications where events are fleeting or non-persistent.
Innovation Solution
A non-volatile overvoltage detection circuit that includes a fuse and a voltage-controlled current switch, where the fuse transitions to an open state upon exceeding a threshold voltage, providing a persistent record of the event, allowing for unambiguous determination of real events, even after power is removed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional overvoltage detection is used with volatile recording, then the system can detect overvoltage events, but the record is lost when power is removed making it difficult to determine if the event was real or erroneous
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a disposable fuse that is intentionally designed to be destroyed (blown) during the detection process. This consumable component provides a permanent, non-volatile record of overvoltage events without requiring power to maintain the record, solving the information loss problem while maintaining detection reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the state parameter of the fuse from conductive to non-conductive through the application of excessive voltage. This parameter change creates a permanent physical record that persists without power, transforming the detection mechanism from volatile to non-volatile while maintaining accuracy
2Reliability
If hardware is shut down in response to overvoltage detection, then safety is improved, but the ability to continue operation and gather more data is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the circuit into a protected main circuit and a separate detection circuit with a fuse. The fuse acts as a sacrificial protection element that can be replaced, allowing the main system to continue operation after an overvoltage event by simply replacing the fuse rather than shutting down the entire system
Solution Approach 2:
The fuse serves as a disposable protective element that absorbs the impact of overvoltage events. By using this cheap, replaceable component, the system can maintain operation continuity through simple fuse replacement rather than extensive repairs or complete system shutdowns
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enables reliable and non-volatile recording of overvoltage events, allowing for accurate identification and analysis of real events, distinguishing them from measurement errors, and facilitating investigation in both ground-based and space-based applications.
Implementation Method 1
the voltage controlled current switch can be a Zener diode with a breakdown voltage based on the threshold value
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques are provided for non-volatile detection of an overvoltage condition in a circuit of interest. A circuit implementing the techniques according to an embodiment includes a fuse configured to provide a non-volatile indication of an overvoltage event, the indication associated with an open state of the fuse. The circuit also includes a voltage controlled current switch coupled in series to the fuse. The voltage controlled current switch is configured to enable current flow through the fuse in response to a supply voltage exceeding a threshold value associated with the overvoltage event. The current causes the fuse to switch from a closed state to an open state providing a non-volatile record of the overvoltage event. In some embodiments, the voltage controlled current switch can be a Zener diode with a breakdown voltage based on the threshold value, or a transistor configured to switch into conducting mode at the threshold value.