Tracking Regulator Short Circuit Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Integrated circuit voltage regulators in vehicle systems are prone to short circuits due to environmental conditions, leading to potential overheating and inefficiencies in tracking regulators, which existing technologies fail to adequately address.
Innovation Solution
A circuit with a tracking regulator and a short-circuit protection mechanism that includes a switch to form a low-impedance path between the reference voltage input and output in response to a short to ground, effectively turning off the tracking regulator to prevent overheating by reducing current flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a tracking regulator is used to provide stable voltage output to sensing devices, then voltage regulation stability is improved, but the risk of thermal overload and short circuit damage increases due to environmental conditions affecting wiring and connectors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action by implementing a protection circuit that proactively detects short circuit conditions through voltage monitoring and preemptively activates a second switch to create a low-impedance path, preventing thermal overload before it occurs. This anticipatory protection mechanism counteracts the harmful effects of short circuits before they can damage the tracking regulator.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an intermediary protection circuit as a mediator between the tracking regulator and the external wiring/connectors. This intermediary layer includes voltage monitoring circuitry and a protection switch that isolates the tracking regulator from harmful external conditions while maintaining normal operation, thus protecting the regulator without affecting its voltage regulation function.
2Adaptability or versatility
If wiring and connectors are extended to reach remote sensing devices, then sensing device accessibility is improved, but the susceptibility to environmental damage and electrical shorts increases
Solution Approach 1:
The protection circuit serves as an intermediary shield between the vulnerable wiring/connectors and the tracking regulator. It monitors voltage conditions and activates protection mechanisms when environmental factors cause electrical faults, thereby allowing extended wiring to reach remote devices without compromising system reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements beforehand cushioning by providing thermal and electrical protection mechanisms in advance. The protection circuit is pre-configured with temperature sensors and voltage monitors that detect early signs of environmental damage and activate protective measures before the wiring failures can propagate to the tracking regulator.
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 effectively prevents thermal overload and oscillations in the tracking regulator during short-circuit conditions, ensuring stable voltage regulation and prolonging the component's lifespan.
Implementation Method 1
a second switch electrically coupled between the reference voltage input and the voltage output, and configured to close the second switch in response to a short to ground of the voltage output
Data Source
AI summary
A controller includes a tracking regulator having a reference voltage input and a voltage output and configured to regulate the voltage output to the reference voltage input. The controller is configured to, in response to a short to ground of the voltage output, electrically couple the reference voltage input to the voltage output.