Robert James Burke

US Patent:

6813125, Nov 2, 2004

Filed:

Jul 1, 2002

Appl. No.:

10/187304

Inventors:

Eric Bobbitt - Brentwood TN
Robert V. Burke - Madison AL
Daoshen Chen - Sunnyvale TX
Robert McCoy - Sparta TN

Assignee:

Universal Lighting Technologies, Inc. - Madison AL

International Classification:

H02H 908

US Classification:

361 42, 361 43

Abstract:

A transformer assembly and method for powering a load with a secondary fault protected isolated secondary. The fault fault path is isolated from ground allowing voltage detection of faults and the return terminal is isolated from the midpoint for multiple load connection schemes using the midpoint as a ground connection. A power control system is connected between the primary winding and the input terminal with a ground fault detection circuit connected between the fault path and the ground terminal, where the ground fault detection circuit is operable to detect a fault and activate the power control system to disconnect the source of power from the primary winding in response to detecting the fault. Also disclosed is a high frequency filter adapted to reduce the effects of high frequency transients and a capacitive reactance connected between the input terminal means and the ground terminal. The capacitive reactance is adapted to provide a ground fault path for fault signals.