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Control circuit between a port of a microprocessor and an actuator and method of maintaining the momentary state of an actuator during a dip in the supply voltage

  • US 6,531,837 B1
  • Filed: 09/28/1999
  • Issued: 03/11/2003
  • Est. Priority Date: 09/28/1998
  • Status: Expired due to Fees
First Claim
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1. A control circuit connected between a control port of a microprocessor and an actuator in a motor vehicle, comprising:

  • a control stage having;

    a terminal connection connected to an actuator terminal associated with an actuator in a motor vehicle and connected to an electrical system in the motor vehicle for a voltage supply to said control stage, the actuator for performing a function other than driving the motor vehicle;

    a control connection connected to a control port of a microprocessor for applying a low level to said control stage from the microprocessor in special cases; and

    an output for outputting a control signal to control the actuator in dependence on a voltage level at said terminal connection and said control connection; and

    a driver stage connected to said control stage for amplifying the control signal.

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