Intelligent Solid State Switching

This project will develop a single integrated intelligent solid state relay utilizing Giant magnetoresistive (GMR) material and advanced solid state power devices. GMR resistors can passively measure the magnetic fields generated by the current through the switch and provide negative feedback to on chip electronics. The electronics will be designed to limit in rush currents, provide a circuit breaker function for overcurrent conditions, and provide either an analog or digital output to the external system. The ability to nonevasively measure the current in the switch provides for on circuit testability or self-test capability. Phase I will develop the device in hybrid form and Phase II will develop a totally integrated device.NVE will cooperatively work with the Air Force to analyze existing spacecraft relays, fusing and current sensing designs in telemetry and circuit breaker functions. Based on the analysis results, NVE will design the architecture for an intelligent solid state equivalent with built-in testability.