Location History:
- Richardson, TX (US) (1985 - 1986)
- Garland, TX (US) (1991 - 1997)
- Phoenixille, PA (US) (2016)
- Phoenixville, PA (US) (2015 - 2023)
Company Filing History:
3 out of 1,350 
2 out of 2 
4 out of 832,912 Years Active: 1985-2023
Title: Alan K Smith: Innovator in Power Semiconductor Technology
Introduction
Alan K Smith is a notable inventor based in Phoenixville, PA (US). He has made significant contributions to the field of power semiconductor technology, holding a total of 9 patents. His work focuses on enhancing the efficiency and reliability of power devices, particularly in the context of gate drive control methods.
Latest Patents
One of Alan's latest patents is a gate drive control method for SiC and IGBT power devices aimed at controlling desaturation or short circuit faults. This innovative gate-drive controller incorporates a master control unit (MCU) and one or more comparators. These components work together to compare the output signal of the power semiconductor device to a reference value generated by the MCU. In response to a turn-off trigger signal, the MCU generates a first intermediate drive signal for the power semiconductor device. Additionally, it produces a second intermediate drive signal when a DSAT signal indicates that the device is experiencing de-saturation. The MCU then generates a final drive signal when the output signal of the comparators indicates a change relative to the reference value. The controller may also include a timer that adjusts the drive signals at predetermined intervals if no change is detected.
Career Highlights
Throughout his career, Alan K Smith has worked with various companies, including Microchip Technology Inc. His experience in the industry has allowed him to develop and refine his innovative ideas, contributing to advancements in power semiconductor technology.
Collaborations
Alan has collaborated with notable professionals in his field, including Albert J Charpentier and Robin Weber. These collaborations have further enriched his work and expanded the impact of his inventions.
Conclusion
Alan K Smith is a distinguished inventor whose contributions to power semiconductor technology have made a significant impact. His innovative patents and collaborations reflect his commitment to advancing the field and improving the performance of power devices.