Abstract: A safety device for a number of electrical loads that are connected to a supply line between a high-side path and a low-side path. The loads are activatable individually by way of drivers provided in the low-side path. A fuse is provided in the high-side path (2a) and causes, in the event of a defect in at least one driver, a permanent interruption in the high-side path.

Abstract: A fuse/support assembly for attachment to an electrical bus includes a base plate having a substrate made of an insulator, a fastener bore extending through the substrate, and an electrically conductive path on the substrate. There is additionally an external connector structure. A fuse is supported on the substrate and has a first end in electrical communication with the external connector and a second end in electrical communication with the electrically conductive path.

Abstract: A fuse is melted and cut off when an overcurrent flows through the fuse. The fuse has a different thermal expansion coefficient metal laminate obtained by laminating a plurality of different thermal expansion coefficient metal plates. When the fuse is melted and cut off by heat of the overcurrent, a mechanical deforming force is applied to a melting portion of the fuse. The mechanical force is caused by the difference between thermal expansion coefficients of the different thermal expansion coefficient metal plates.

Abstract: This invention includes a circuit that approximates the thermal behavior of a fuse or other electronic device that is coupled in series with the circuit. In one preferred embodiment, the circuit protects a fuse coupled in series with a rechargeable battery from clearing during soft short conditions. Thus, when the instantaneous current is temporarily above the current rating of the fuse, yet the root mean squared current is below the current rating of the fuse, the circuit works to estimate the heating of the fuse element and limit the current to a root mean squared value that is less than the current rating of the fuse. One embodiment includes a programmable comparator that actuates a counter which, in turn, increments to estimate heating of the element when the current exceeds a predetermined threshold.

Abstract: An electrical current protection device capable of highly safe and rapid shutoff or suppression of electric current is disclosed. In addition to internal electrical current protection capabilities, external environmental triggers are also provided. The current protection device may include substrate-based thermal metallic fuse, PTC current-suppressing protection, thermal heat elements, integrated-circuit based voltage-drop detector, an FET-based current switch, and an external detector for environmental sensing and trigger.

Abstract: A power plug includes a plug body having opposite sides and an end, terminal prongs extending from the end of the plug body, and a built-in circuit breaker. The circuit breaker is operable between a normal condition enabling the power plug to connect a load to a power source and a tripped condition disconnecting the load upon the detection of a circuit fault. The circuit breaker includes at least two members at respective opposite sides of the plug body which are simultaneously movable between a first position corresponding to the normal condition and a second position corresponding to the tripped condition. The members provide an indication of the operating condition of the circuit breaker viewable on both sides of the plug body.

Abstract: A thermosensitive wire (15), including a pair of phosphor bronze round wires which cause a short-circuit when the ambient temperature exceeds a predetermined temperature, is laid along an induction line (14), and a protective device (25) including a DC power supply unit (33) for applying a DC voltage and a meter relay (35) for detecting that the thermosensitive wire (15) has caused a short-circuit is provided on both ends of the thermosensitive wire (15). An alarm output (35A) of the meter relay (35) is outputted to a high-frequency generating circuit (24) so as to shut down a high-frequency current to be supplied to the induction line (14). With this structure, even when a metal such as a tool made of iron is erroneously set near the induction line (14), the heating thereof may be detected by using the thermosensitive wire (15) and the high-frequency current flowing through the induction line (14) may be shut down.

Abstract: An excess current interrupting structure comprising a conductive wire rod which generates heat by an excess current connected between a pair of electric conductors, a circumference of the conductive wire rod being covered with a resin with a thin coated layer formed in the vicinity of a path of the conductive wire rod.

Abstract: A rectifier assembly employs a set of diodes to rectify alternating current from an alternator to direct current for use by the electrical system of an automobile. The rectifier includes a plurality of thermal safety disconnects coupled along circuit paths within the rectifier assembly. When the resultant temperature caused by the heat provided to the safety disconnect as a result of the diodes overheating is above a threshold level, the safety disconnect melts away to disconnect the circuit path associated with the safety disconnect.

Abstract: This invention provides a residual current detector comprising a trip circuit; a magnetic lock assembly including a solenoid that operates in response to a signal from the trip circuit, causing movement of an operating member, with the magnetic lock further including a reset mechanism for resetting the residual current detector following a trip operation; and means for preventing reset of the magnetic lock by restraining movement of the solenoid when the trip circuit is disabled. In the preferred embodiment, a plunger assembly is mounted adjacent to the solenoid of the magnetic lock assembly and fusible link is connected in series with the trip circuit and mounted to prevent movement of a plunger in the plunger assembly. When the trip circuit is subjected to excessive current, the fusible link will melt, thereby permitting the plunger to interfere with movement of the armature of the solenoid. This prevents rest of the magnetic lock assembly.

Abstract: An electrical component is installed in a plastic cup. The component has two electrical connecting lines, and a parting location that is bridged by a solder metal is arranged in one lead. In addition, a prestressed spring is arranged at the one lead for removing the lead from the parting location during melting of the solder metal as a result of an overload, so that the component is disconnected from a current source. The one lead is pinched to a thickness of 0.2-0.5 mm.

Abstract: A battery module including at least one cell, at least one sensor, an interrupter device such as a fuse connected in series with the cells and an electronic switch. The electronic switch includes power transistors for short circuiting the series-connected components and the fuse if the sensor senses a malfunction and a diode for assuring that the power transistors maintain the series-connected circuit short circuited regardless of the subsequent status of the sensor. The diode memorizes the malfunction so that the module continues to conduct after the fuse blows, even if the sensors no longer detect any malfunction.

Abstract: A voltage regulator protecting both the regulator and the electrical system. A flyback diode is protected by an autoprotected MOSFET in series with the flyback diode and controlling it by a drive circuit connected to the vehicle ignition switch. Protection against overcurrent is provided by a resettable fuse, having a thermal protection circuit, in series with the power switch. A relay is in series with the resettable fuse. The controlled switch is controlled by the output of a voltage detector. A latching circuit holds it open as long as the circuit remains connected to the battery. Overvoltage protection is provided by a voltage detector which opens the relay if the battery voltage exceeds a pre-selected voltage. To accommodate lead-acid and maintenance-free batteries, the regulator has two input ignition terminals one of which controls the set point voltage. The resettable fuse is physically mounted in thermal connection to the power switch which switches the field.

Abstract: A partial discharge (PD) coupler for coupling electrical machinery to partial discharge analysis testing equipment includes at least one capacitor capable of withstanding high voltages; a current sensor for sensing current passed by the at least one capacitor; and potting material surrounding the at least one capacitor and the current sensor for providing flashover protection.

Abstract: The present invention provides a fuse of a semiconductor device and a method of forming a fuse of a semiconductor device. The method of the invention includes forming an underlying metal conductor on a semiconductor substrate, forming an insulating film over the underlying metal conductor, and selectively etching regions of the insulating film. One of the regions of the insulating film is etched to form a via contact region exposing the underlying metal conductor. A second region is etched to form a groove in the insulating film for the fuse metal. Metal is buried within the second etched region of the insulating film and the via contact region to respectively form a fuse metal pattern and a via contact metal layer.

Abstract: A surge suppressor conducts heat from a surge protection component (SSC) through a heat conductive element, such as a copper pad, on a printed circuit board, to at least one thermal fuse to cause the thermal fuse to open when the resistance of the SSC begins to decrease, resulting in an increase of heat generated by the SSC.

Abstract: A fuse includes a housing and terminal blades extending therefrom. Each terminal blade includes a stop face, a stop brace, a hold face, and a hold brace. The stop face and stop brace prevent over insertion of the terminal blade through a circuit board and separate the fuse housing from the circuit board. The stop brace and hold brace position the housing relative to the board and prevent dislodging of the blades from the board during soldering operations.

Abstract: An internal power protection device which prevents the flow of power to an electronic component in response to an over-voltage or under-voltage signal condition. When the power supplied to the component is within a normal safe operating range for components of that type, the device allows power to flow through it to the power input terminal of the component. When the power supplied to the component is outside the normal safe operating range for components of that type, the device prevents power from flowing to the power input terminal of the component.

Abstract: A circuit that senses changes in the electrical characteristics of one or more circuit elements and generates one or more signals based, at least in part, on the electrical characteristics that are sensed, is incorporated into an integrated circuit. In a further aspect of the present invention, the one or more signals generated by the circuit are indicative of the reliability of an electronic device into which an embodiment of the present invention is incorporated.

Abstract: A fuse comprising a tubular fuse casing and first and second conductive ferrules located on the exterior of the casing at opposite ends thereof. The second ferrule has an opening therethrough. A first short circuit fusible element is attached to the first ferrule, and a heater is attached to the second ferrule. A time delay over-current trigger mechanism electrically connects the first fusible element and the heater to each other in series in an electrical path between the conductive ferrules. The mechanism is connected to receive heat from the heater and to mechanically interrupt the electrical path when the heater heats up under low over-current conditions. An indicator mechanism is provided for indicating when the electrical path between the conductive ferrules is interrupted. The indicator mechanism is comprised of an indicator movable from a first position wherein the indicator is substantially within the casing to a second position wherein a substantial portion of the indicator is outside the casing.

Abstract: A layer of thermal fusible material is placed on one surface of a metal oxide varistor (MOV) to monitor the heating of the MOV due to applied voltage spikes. The thermal fusible material is part of the electrical circuit which includes the MOV and melts at a predetermined temperature. In the presence of a severe or a number of voltage spikes the MOV heats up and the heat transferred to the thermal fusible material causes it to open the electrical circuit to the MOV to prevent overheating and thermal runaway. In another form, the MOV is separated into two halves and the thermal fusible material layer is placed between the ends of the MOV halves.

Abstract: A device for warning an automotive circuit breakdown comprises a housing and an apparatus located in the housing and provided with a negative conductive piece, a positive conductive piece, a fuse connecting the negative conductive piece and the positive conductive piece, a light-emitting diode fastened with the negative conductive piece, and a coiled spring fastened at one end thereof with the positive conductive piece and at other end thereof with an elastic piece. When the electric current of the automotive circuit becomes too strong, the fuse melts to break the circuit. The electric current is then made available via the coiled spring and the elastic piece to the light-emitting diode which emits light to warn of the automotive circuit breakdown.

Abstract: The breaker apparatus is disclosed which comprises a projecting wall standing upright from the base of a breaker body; a pair of plate-shaped fixed electrodes laid on the front and back surfaces of the projecting wall; a recessed plug to be fitted on the projecting wall; a U-shaped movable electrode to be stored in the plug for bringing the both fixed electrodes into conduction by clamping the projecting wall on the front and back surfaces thereof; a fuse storage section for storing a fuse connected to one of the fixed electrodes in the surrounding wall standing upright from the base in parallel with the projecting wall; a cover for covering the opening of the fuse storage section and being fittable to the surrounding wall; an engaging surface formed on the plug and facing in the fitting direction of the plug; and a cover motion stopper provided on the cover for engaging with the engaging surface of the plug with the plug fitted to the projecting wall.

Abstract: A system is disclosed for verifying the operativeness of a crowbar circuit which normally protects an electrical device in a series circuit with a power supply. The crowbar circuit includes means for sensing fault current in the series circuit and a crowbar switch responds to the sensing means for protecting the electrical device by directing the fault current away from the electrical device. The system includes verification testing means including a fuse and actuatable pneumatic switch connected together in series for, when said pneumatic switch is actuated, providing a short circuit across the crowbar switch to verify the operativeness of the crowbar circuit which, if not operative, causes the fault current to flow through and blow out the fuse.

Abstract: The present invention deals with the problems related to thermal runaway and over-voltage breakdown in integrated circuits using a series of power transistors interconnected in a parallel circuit arrangement. The general technique described consists of a protection scheme that involves the application of a fusible material to form ballast resistor components. These components are connected in series with each of the transistors in the integrated circuits. The main advantages are significant area and cost savings in the manufacturing of the integrated circuits as well as an increase in their yield, thereby reducing costly field maintenance and equipment returns.

Abstract: In order to protect electrical devices against overheating, a thermal fuse is provided which is fitted inside a housing of the electrical device to be protected. The thermal fuse, which consists of low-melting point metal, is provided directly next to a critical element of the electrical device, such as a PTC thermistor, is preferably of U-shaped or V-shaped design, and is arranged such that its vertex is directly next to the critical element.

Abstract: A gap conducting structure for an integrated electronic circuit that functions as an electronic fuse device and that is integrated as part of the semi-conductor chip wiring for providing over-current and thermal runaway protection. The gap conducting structure includes one or more air gap regions of predefined volume that fully or partially exposes a length of interlevel conductor layer in an IC. Alternately, the air gap region may wholly located within the dielectric region below a corresponding conductor and separated by insulator. When functioning as a fuse, the gap region acts to reduce thermal conductivity away from the exposed portion of the conductor enabling generation of higher heat currents in the conducting line with lower applied voltages sufficient to destruct a part of the partially exposed/fully exposed conducting line, thus preventing thermal runaway and over-current condition.

Abstract: The device comprises a busbar (1′) connected, on the one hand, to the source of electrical energy and, on the other hand, to a plurality of electrical contacts (3′i) each forming part of one of the circuits. According to the invention, several self-resettable fuses (5′i) for protecting said circuits are soldered to said busbar (1′), these fuses each consisting of a layer of a dispersion of an electrically conductive particulate material in a polymer, said layer being laminated between first and second, plane and parallel, electrodes electrically connected to the busbar (1′) and to said electrical contacts (3′i) of an associated circuit, respectively.

Abstract: A metal oxide varistor module, and variations thereof for use in surge protectors and the like combining internally a thermally activated disconnect means and an excessive current disconnect means, such that when the module is subject to excessive overvoltage or overcurrent conditions, the connection is interrupted from the phase to neutral, phase to ground and any other combination of voltage or current before the metal oxide varistor device is physically damaged, ruptured or cracked.

Abstract: A non-venting current limiting fuse for mounting in a cutout comprises a high current fuse component and a low current fuse component housed in separate compartments of a housing and connected in series. Interruption of a low current overload results in operation of the low current fuse component only, with the high current component being unaffected. The low current fuse component is removable from the housing such that when a low current overload situation exists, the low current fuse component can be simply removed and replaced without the need for replacement of the more costly high current fuse component.

Abstract: A protective device for minimizing fire danger in the use of electrical circuits comprises a unit having a mechanically biased conductive element in series with the circuit, and maintained in position under tension by a fusible material such as a Cerro alloy having a yield point at a selected temperature threshold. When overheating at some other point in the circuit results rise of temperature at the protective device, the yielding of the fusible material allows the conductive element to spring free, opening the circuit and cutting off the current. This arrangement is useful in an male plug integral to or separate from an extension cord, in conjunction with circuit breaker systems, in a in-circuit device, and in electrical appliances and devices.

Abstract: For use in a power distribution system having first and second output power feeds having corresponding first and second circuit protection devices associated therewith, a monitoring system and a method of monitoring a utilization of the power distribution system. In one embodiment, the monitoring system includes: (1) first and second status sensors that sense statuses of the first and second circuit protection devices, respectively and (2) a controller, coupled to the first and second status sensors, that employs the statuses to determine a loading of the first and second output power feeds and calculates a utilization of the power distribution system based on the loading.

Abstract: An electronic module comprising a power supply conductor coupled to one or more electromechanical actuators to supply operable power to the electromechanical actuators. The electronic module also includes a moisture sensor positioned to sense moisture intrusion into the module. Further, the electronic module comprises a first transistor responsively coupled to the moisture sensor, the first transistor coupled to draw current from the power supply conductor when the first transistor is in a conductive state. In addition, the electronic module includes a second transistor responsively coupled to the first transistor and in turn controllingly coupled to the first transistor.

Abstract: A semiconductor device having a deactivation fuse includes logic circuit and at least two active elements. The logic circuit generates at least two internal control signals in response to an external control signal. The at least two active elements are connected in series with each other, and generate an output signal having a predetermined voltage in response to the internal control signals. The fuse is coupled to the active elements and logic circuit so as to minimize power consumption.

Abstract: For use with a power supply having first and second circuit protection devices, a detection circuit, a method of monitoring the protection devices and a power supply employing the circuit or the method. In one embodiment, the detection circuit includes (1) a bridge circuit coupled to the first and second circuit protection devices, (2) a resistor parallel-coupled across one of the first and second circuit protection devices and (3) a sensing circuit, coupled to the bridge circuit and the resistor, that senses an imbalance in the bridge circuit and develops therefrom a failure signal when at least one of the first and second circuit protection devices becomes inoperable.

Abstract: A temperature detectable current fuse comprises a temperature detecting fuse having a fusible portion, a current fuse having a fusible portion and a table portion provided at the fusible portion thereof, on which the fusible portion of the temperature detecting fuse is mounted, and a housing having a chamber into which the temperature detecting fuse and the current fuse are inserted through an opening of the chamber.

Abstract: The response time of a melting fuse is controlled or influenced by temporarily boosting a threshold level from a first constant value (I.sub.1) to a second dynamic value (I.sub.2) which is then caused to decay in a controlled manner during a fixed time between (t.sub.1) and (t.sub.2) and in accordance with a selectable decay function. If a current (m) flowing through the fuse exceeds the decaying threshold value a fuse blowing current is generated and supplied to the fuse, whereby the fuse blows sooner than it would have, if the excess current had prevailed for a long enough time between (t.sub.1) and (t.sub.X). On the other hand, the fuse does not blow in response to short duration transient excess currents that occur, for example at starting an engine. The engine start impulse which may be used to temporarily raise the threshold value from (I.sub.1) to (I.sub.2) and then cause said controlled decay.

Abstract: A solid state power controller for switching power on and off to an electrical load which also serves as a circuit protection device protecting the load and/or the wire connected between the load output terminal of the controller and ground from thermal damage due to current overload is shown. Upon current overload the controller interrupts current to the load in a time inversely proportional to the square of the magnitude of the overload. The controller also limits the load current to a selected maximum level by controlling the drain-source resistance of power MOSFETs (PS1-7) used for switching power. A secondary interrupt is provided in the event that the junction temperature of the MOSFETs has risen to a selected maximum level. A thermal memory feature is included for both interrupt signals. The controller is controlled by a single on/off input line (COMMAND) and provides both a status (STATUS) and trip (TRIP) output line. The status can be configured to monitor load voltage or load current flow.

Abstract: A communication system (10) includes a central office (16) that provides communication services to a plurality of subscribers (18) using differential transmission line pairs (21). The differential transmission line pairs are vulnerable to lightning strikes that may damage equipment coupled to the differential transmission line pairs. A protection circuit (51A) protects equipment from damage from a lightning strike and allows for continued operation after the lightning strike. The protection circuit involves automatically resettable fuses (66, 81) in parallel with non-resettable fuses (67, 82). Continued operation is effected at a normal level after a weak lightning strike, and at a reduced level after a strong strike.

Abstract: An electronic component (100) includes a body portion (105) for enclosing first and second electronic devices (415, 430). The component (100) has first and second leads (110, 115) extending therefrom for providing a connection to the first device (415) and third and fourth leads (125, 130) extending from the component (100) for providing a connection to the second device (430). The first device (415) can be a short circuit connection, a fuse, or a resistor, while the second device (430) can be a different device, such as an open circuit connection. When the first and second leads (110, 115) are inserted into a connector (205) of an external circuit (202), the first device (415) is electrically coupled to the circuit (202). When, alternatively, the third and fourth leads (125, 130) are inserted into the connector (205), the second device (430) is electrically coupled to the circuit (202).

Abstract: A building entrance protector swivel cable mounting arrangement without a feed through hole requirement has an output wire termination device, a barrier wall comprises a fire-resistant plate for isolating the swivel cable from the output wire termination device within the building entrance protector. The fire-resistant plate has a narrow opening comprised of a primary aperture and a wiring access slot. The wiring access slot permits insertion of terminated individual wiring into the primary aperture. A method in accordance with the present invention is also described.

Abstract: A current and transient voltage protector. The protector module for a wiring block having at least one wiring strip includes an insulative housing having opposed ends, at least four electrically conductive contacts defining a first contact, a second contact, a third contact, and a fourth contact partially disposed in the housing. The first contact and second contact extend through one of the ends and the third contact and fourth contact extend through the other end. The first contact and the third contact are aligned and the second contact and the fourth contact are aligned and adjacent to the first contact and the third contact. A first fuse is disposed in the housing and is electrically connected between the first contact and the third contact while a second fuse, also disposed in the housing, is electrically connected between the second contact and the fourth contact.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to the securing of a reserve d.c. power device containing a battery of parallel-connected electrolytic capacitors. A reserve d.c. power device is provided with current limitation means series-connected at its input and current cut-off means that are series-connected with each capacitor and that open for a current intensity value higher than the value of intensity of the nominal current for charging the protected capacitor that is imposed by the distribution, between the capacitors, of the current with intensity limited by the means of limiting current delivered by the d.c. source each time that the system is started up. Precautions are thus taken against power supply losses due to the short-circuiting of a capacitor. At the same time, it is seen to it that the state of the capacitors of the power reserve device is constantly monitored.

Abstract: A system and method for interrupting the power to a load, comprising a contact interposed between the source of power and the load, receiving power from the power supply to a circuit on the power supply side of the contact, the circuit comprising a series connection of a resettable fuse device, a bi-metallic switch, and a contact control, the resettable fuse device side of the circuit being electrically connected to the power source and the contact control being the closest of the three series components electrically connected to ground, the contact control having an electrical interface with the contact, the contact remaining in a closed position when power is supplied to the contact control and the contact remaining in an open position when power is interrupted to the contact control, the circuit further comprising a first bypass segment connecting the side of the resettable fuse opposite the power supply to a point between the contact and the load, the first bypass segment having an electrically open porti

Abstract: To avoid burning out a capacitor in a synchronous rectification type DC-to-DC converter due to overvoltages, the synchronous rectification type DC-to-DC converter includes a storage unit storing therein power derived from a power supply, switching elements connecting and disconnecting respective signal paths from power and ground, and a control unit controlling the connecting/disconnecting operations of the switching elements to maintain a voltage output from the storage unit at a predetermined value.

Abstract: A protective relay of the type consisting of a relay contacts controlled by means of a relay coil further includes a pair of triacs controlled by an optical switch. The high speed response is attributed to the configuration of the triacs while high ampere rating is provided by the contacts.

Abstract: A printed circuit board assembly comprising a printed circuit board having a plurality of conductive traces deposited on a surface thereof to define a plurality of electrical circuit geometries. A plurality of thin film fuses are deposited on the printed circuit board, each fuse providing circuit protection to one of the plurality of conductive traces.

Abstract: An integrated circuit includes topological features for weakening or otherwise modifying a blowable fuse in order to decrease the current needed to blow the fuse. This allows a decrease in the size of the circuit components which are needed to supply the current for blowing the fuse, in turn allowing compaction of the layout of the circuitry needed to blow the fuse. To this end, topological features are used to deform the shape of or otherwise modify the fuse, in turn increasing the resistance of the fuse or introducing flaws that allow the fuse to blow at a lower current.

Abstract: A motor protector (1, 1A) for connection in a circuit for supplying electrical power to a motor (36) to be protected includes first (S1), second (S2) and third (S3) switches in a housing member (2, 3). Each switch (S1, S2, S3) uses a snap-acting bimetallic member (8, 11, 13) for opening and closing electrical contacts (4a and 5a, 8a and 8b; 17 and 27; 18 and 30) of the respective switch. The switches (S1, S2, S3) in the housing member (2, 3) are connected as part of the circuit supplying electrical power to the motor (36) being electrically connected in series with one another so that the opening of any one of them will stop the flow of power to the motor (36) to be protected.

Abstract: A partial discharge (PD) coupler includes at least one high voltage capacitor; potting material surrounding the capacitor; and a fuse physically and electrically connected in series to the capacitor. The capacitor and the fuse are capable of passing high frequency partial discharge with minimal attenuation. The PD coupler can have potting material surrounding both the capacitor and the fuse. The PD coupler can include a housing surrounding the capacitor, the potting material, and the fuse.