Patent ID: 6118256
Filing Date: 2000-09-12
Classification: H02H

Abstract:
A method for determining whether a voltage regulating protection device that is coupled to a line receiving alternate current power has failed, the method comprising the steps of:a) providing at least one switching element;b) connecting the at least one switching element in parallel with the voltage regulating protection device;c) providing at least one capacitor;d) connecting the at least one capacitor in parallel with the at least one switching element;e) providing a voltage source to charge the at least one capacitor;f) during normal operation of the voltage regulating protection device, discharging the at least one capacitor on a repetitive basis through a variable conductive current path, the variable conductive current path being rendered conductive through the application of sufficient power to the at least one switching element, the at least one switching element being unable to receive the sufficient power when: (i) the voltage regulating protection device is conductive; or (ii) the voltage regulating protection device has failed; andg) assessing the voltage of the at least one capacitor to determine whether the at least one capacitor is discharging throughout the current path and, thus, whether the voltage regulating protection device has failed.