Patent ID: 7362011
Filing Date: 2008-04-22
Classification: H01H

Abstract:
1. An apparatus for preventing a contact from being corroded, the apparatus comprising: a power source; a signal line connected to the contact; a first resistance connected to the signal line; a switching section that comprises a first switch between the power source and the signal line, an impedance of the first switch being smaller than that of the first resistance when the first switch is turned on; a comparator that compares a potential of the signal line with a predetermined potential to determine as to whether or not the contact is corroded, the comparator outputting a driving signal when the comparator concludes that the contact is corroded; and an overheat detecting section that detects as to whether or not temperature of the apparatus exceeds a predetermined temperature, the overheat detecting section decreasing current flowing through the switching section when the temperature of the apparatus exceeds the predetermined temperature, wherein: the first resistance and the switching section are connected in parallel between the power source and the signal line; and upon receiving the driving signal from the comparator, the first switch is turned on.