Patent ID: 8051945
Filing Date: 2011-11-08
Classification: B62D

Abstract:
1. An electric power steering system for a vehicle comprising: an electric power steering motor operatively connected to at least one wheel of the vehicle for assisting in turning the at least one wheel of the vehicle; at least one power device electrically connected to a power input for receiving electrical power and to said motor for providing electrical power to said motor; a gate drive device electrically connected to said at least one power device for regulating operation of said at least one power device; and a shutdown mechanism electrically connected between said gate drive device and said power input for isolating electrical power from said gate drive device in response to a shutdown condition to prevent said at least one power device from providing electric power to the power steering motor, said shutdown mechanism including a MOSFET having a source electrically connected to said power input, a drain electrically connected to said gate drive device, and a gate for receiving an enable signal.