Abstract: A system for monitoring and controlling the safety system of equipment, which is used to insure personnel safety and cause the system to “fail safe” in the event of computer or software failure, the failure of a critical piece of hardware, or the opening of any interlock indicating, for example, the unexpected entry of personnel into a dangerous area. Provides an integrated system of timed status monitoring hardware and software for use in a distributed-network computer-controlled environment. The hardware piece of this system includes a digital I/O computer add-on card, or other hardware supporting high-speed alternating state telemetry, and a custom circuit card. Such a circuit, when used within the overall control system can monitor the state of interlock switches and monitor the status of the computer control system(s). Such a safety circuit can then cause a shutdown appropriate to the failure detected.

Abstract: A power supply with a high voltage current regulated output wherein input devices are gated ON and OFF to regulate the output current. The output current is coupled through a current limiting inductor to a high voltage fast electronic switch (E-switch) that turns ON and OFF much faster than the power supply can shut down. The electronic switch is bypassed with a resistor network that is sized to dissipate slightly in excess of the full power rating of the power supply during a shut-down cycle. The electronic switch is normally gated ON providing a low impedance path for current charging the capacitor bank. When a short circuit condition is sensed, the E-switch is turned OFF and the resistor network limits the short circuit current, limits the voltage across the E-switch, and dissipates any energy stored in the inductor and the power supply circuitry during power supply shut-down.

Abstract: A power and signal distribution system is adaptable to existing building areas and provides a shielded, low resistance and low inductance grounding structure. The distribution system comprises two or more electrically conductive enclosed channels; one for lower current signals and power distribution and one for high current signals and power distribution. The enclosed channels are electrically coupled and are configured as crosses or spokes with branches extending substantially over the length and width of the building area. The earth ground for the building has a direct connection to one of the enclosures. The ground of each device in the building area is directly connected to the enclosed channels by a low impedance connection. Cables are routed through the enclosures and extended to the devices. The walls of the enclosed channels have a thickness that is greater than the skin depth of a predetermined low frequency.