Maxim Integrated Products, Inc.
SYSTEMS AND METHODS TO SAFELY DISCHARGE INDUCTORS WITHOUT ENERGY LIMITATIONS

Abstract:

Embodiments of a discharge circuit are disclosed for quickly and safely discharging energy from an inductor load. The discharge circuit comprises a first switch, a second switch and a voltage regulator. The inductor load couples between the first switch and the second switch. During fast demagnetization, a high side switch is tuned off to decouple the load from a voltage source and the second switch is turned on. Voltage on one end of the load is pushed high and maintained at a predetermined level due to the voltage regulator. The predetermined voltage pulls down the current at the inductive load and causes temperature of the discharge circuit going up quickly. Once the temperature reaches a predetermined threshold, a comparing circuit outputs a signal to a driver and eventually pulls down voltage of the inductor load for low-power demagnetization.