Importance

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Abstract

Apparatus and methods for time-delayed thermal overload protection are provided. In one aspect, an integrated circuit includes a primary circuit disposed in a primary circuit region on a substrate, and a thermal protection circuit disposed in a thermal protection circuit region on the substrate and in thermal communication with the primary circuit. The thermal protection circuit includes a temperature sensing circuit configured to sense a temperature of the thermal protection circuit region and to activate a temperature warning signal when the temperature exceeds a temperature threshold level. The thermal protection circuit additionally includes a time delay circuit configured to activate a shut off signal to disable at least a portion of the primary circuit when the temperature warning signal is active for a duration exceeding a time delay.

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First Claim