Douglas W Brooks

Title: The Innovative Contributions of Douglas W. Brooks

Introduction

Douglas W. Brooks is a distinguished inventor based in Carson City, Nevada, with a remarkable portfolio of five patents. His innovative work primarily focuses on advancements in arc discharge lamp ballast technologies, showcasing his expertise and dedication to the field of electrical engineering.

Latest Patents

Two of his latest patents demonstrate his significant contributions to this industry. The first patent, titled "Output Protection for Arc Discharge Lamp Ballast," introduces a method for applying sampled ballast current to a burden capacitor. This design ensures low impedance across the winding, managing the waveform of the sample current effectively. It also addresses issues of asymmetry between the positive and negative half-cycles caused by abnormal lamp operation. This innovation allows for charge buildup across the capacitor, which is crucial for actuating a ballast disabling switch, such as a silicon controlled rectifier.

The second patent, "Floating Reference Fault Protection Circuit for Arc Discharge Lamp Ballast," provides a sophisticated fault protection mechanism for fluorescent lamp ballasts. This circuit is capable of cutting off power to the lamp in response to rapid changes in current or voltage, while remaining unaffected by slower changes. Its compatibility with various ballast circuit topologies, combined with a floating reference level, enhances its utility in universal ballasts, effectively making it a versatile solution within the industry.

Career Highlights

Throughout his career, Douglas W. Brooks has worked with notable companies such as Bruce Industries, Inc. His contributions in these roles have been pivotal in developing and refining technologies related to arc discharge lamp ballasts. Brooks's deep understanding of both the theoretical and practical aspects of electrical engineering has allowed him to innovate extensively in this area.

Collaborations

In addition to his professional roles, Brooks has collaborated with esteemed colleagues, including Samuel H. Auld, Jr. and Mangalam K. Balachander. These partnerships have enriched his research and development efforts, leading to groundbreaking advancements in ballast technology and fostering a collaborative spirit in the engineering community.

Conclusion

Douglas W. Brooks's innovative spirit and dedication to his craft have positioned him as a notable figure in the arena of electrical engineering. His patents not only reflect his technical proficiency but also embody his commitment to advancing technology in the field of arc discharge lamp ballasts. As he continues to push the boundaries of innovation, his work will undoubtedly influence future developments in lighting technologies.