Solid State Switch Battery Backup Protection Circuit

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Solution Overview

Problem

Control systems face damage due to improper connection of power sources, where components may be damaged when a power source is connected to an output connector instead of an input connector, leading to potential electrical miscommunication and current flow issues.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating a first and second solid state switch configuration that prevents current flow between input and output connectors when a power source is improperly connected to the output, with an indicator to alert for improper connections, utilizing a battery backup protection circuit to safeguard electrical components.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a power source is connected to an output connector instead of an input connector, then the control system may operate, but electrical components may become damaged due to improper current flow

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnector connectivityVSAvoidcomponent damage
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

A protection circuit is introduced as an intermediary component between the output connector and the electrical components. This protection circuit includes a solid state switch that detects improper connections and interrupts current flow, preventing damage to downstream components while allowing the connector to remain universally compatible

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The protection circuit performs preliminary detection before current reaches vulnerable components. The solid state switch is configured to detect the presence of a power source at the output connector and proactively prevent current flow in the reverse direction, stopping potential damage before it occurs

Inventive Principle:
Principle #9Preliminary anti-action

2Reliability

If solid state switches are added to prevent improper current flow, then component protection is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecomponent protectionVSAvoidcircuit complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The protection circuit is designed to automatically detect and respond to improper connections without external control. The solid state switch self-activates when it detects a power source at the output connector, eliminating the need for additional control logic, microcontrollers, or external monitoring systems

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The protection function is merged into the existing connector architecture. The solid state switch is integrated directly at the output connector, combining the connection interface and protection functions into a single unified component, reducing overall system complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS8421276B2Battery backup protection circuit
Publication Date: 2013.04.16 MASCO CANADA
  • US8421276B2 patent drawing
  • US8421276B2 patent drawing
  • US8421276B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An exemplary control system has an input connector operable to connect to a power source and at least one output connector operable to connect to either a load or a power source. A first solid state switch is also provided, operable to control a flow of current between the input connector and the output connector. A second solid state switch communicates with the first solid state switch and is operable to command the first solid state switch to prevent the flow of current between the output connector and input connector in response to the power source being connected to the output connector.