Abstract

A power and safety control hub, integrating fault tolerant power disconnect control, software monitoring of disconnect and multi-voltage power distribution and disconnect with non-hazardous power control, EMI filtering and multi-circuit current protection in a single unit, coordinating shutdown of connected mechanical drives, commanding them to come to a controlled stop before safety power is disconnected. The hub may also integrates segmented hazardous power control and automatically discharge energy sources within connected mechanical drives at the time of safety power disconnect of hazardous power. The hub may also include internal self-protection that automatically forces a control safety power disconnect (after warning the host) if the unit should approach its maximum operating temperature, or if a cooling fan stops.