Richard A Harris

Title: The Innovative Journey of Richard A. Harris

Introduction

Richard A. Harris, an accomplished inventor based in Palo Alto, CA, has made significant contributions to the field of electronics, particularly in surge protection devices. With a prolific record of 11 patents, Harris has established himself as a key figure in the innovation landscape.

Latest Patents

Among his latest inventions is the "Surge Protection Device," which provides essential protection to an output node from electrical surges that can occur on data or power lines. The device incorporates a transistorized surge protection mechanism, positioned between the input and output nodes, which operates by switching to an isolating state in response to overstress. The design features a voltage-triggered protective circuit that includes a diac in series with a bi-directional zener diode, effectively managing surge currents and maintaining compactness of the product.

Another noteworthy patent is the "Apparatus and Method for High-Voltage Transient Blocking Using Low Voltage Elements." This invention employs a transient blocking unit (TBU) utilizing depletion mode n-channel and p-channel devices to block high-voltage transients. The collaborative operation of these devices results in a robust defense mechanism, essential for maintaining functionality during surge events. This innovation employs cascaded low-voltage field effect transistors (FETs) to achieve high-voltage performance, underscoring Harris’s technical acuity in electronic design.

Career Highlights

Richard A. Harris has held pivotal roles in notable companies such as Fultec Semiconductor, Inc. and Bourns Incorporated, where he has honed his skills and contributed to groundbreaking projects. His tenure at these companies has been marked by a focus on advancing technology in electrical safety measures.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Harris has had the privilege of collaborating with talented professionals, including Francois Hebert and Handoko Linewih. These partnerships have fostered a creative environment that has been instrumental in his successful innovations.

Conclusion

Richard A. Harris stands out as a prominent inventor whose work in surge protection technology continues to influence the electronics industry. With a total of 11 patents to his name, his contributions ensure enhanced safety and functionality in electrical applications, showcasing the impact of innovative thinking in our rapidly evolving technological landscape.