Abstract: An electric circuit for powering a load using an IPD includes a charge pump and a comparator. A first conductive path connects the charge pump to a positive node of the comparator. A second conductive path connects the battery to a negative node of the comparator and is also connected to a ground. A third conductive path connecting an output of the comparator to the IPD. A second diode is disposed on the third conductive path with the anode connected to the IPD and the cathode connected to an output of the comparator. The comparator generates a low output signal when the charge pump voltage is less than the battery voltage so as to provide a path for current from the battery to flow through the first diode into the output of the comparator and to the ground.

Abstract: A delay unit for use in a steering wheel system, the steering wheel system having a steering wheel and a horn actuated by a tactile input configured to provide electric power to a semiconductor switch electrically coupled to the horn. The delay unit includes a semiconductor switch and a time charging unit connected in parallel with the semiconductor unit. The time charging unit is configured to hold a predetermined amount of electric power before electrically connecting the electric power to the semiconductor switch. As such, the time charging unit generates a delay in the transmission of electric power to the semiconductor switch so as to prevent the horn from being actuated when the steering wheel is mounted onto the steering column.