Patents Represented by Attorney, Agent or Law Firm Finnegan, Henserson, Farabow, Garrett & Dunner, L.L.P.
  • Patent number: 6211792
    Abstract: Methods and systems consistent with this invention detect a failed short thyristor in a solid-state controller for delivering power to a load during reduced-voltage operation. Methods and systems consistent with this invention detect a voltage across the thyristor, and indicate a failed short thyristor when the absolute value of the voltage across the thyristor remains below a threshold value during a predetermined period of time. Methods and systems consistent with this invention detect a failed open thyristor in a solid-state controller during full-voltage operation. Methods and systems consistent with this invention detect a voltage across the thyristor, and indicate a failed open thyristor when the absolute value of the voltage across the thyristor exceeds a threshold value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2001
    Inventors: Ivan Jadrić, Harold R. Schnetzka, Gregory K. Beaverson