A multi-power module switching system and control method

Abstract

This application discloses a multi-power module switching system and control method, relating to the field of power supply technology. The system regulates the output current by controlling the number of switching devices that are turned on, thereby stabilizing the voltage. The multi-power module switching system includes a switching circuit and a soft-start circuit. The switching circuit includes multiple switching devices, each configured to connect to a power module. The soft-start circuit includes multiple control terminals, each electrically connected to the control terminal of a switching device. The soft-start circuit is configured to: when one power module is operating, control any one switching device to turn on, connecting the corresponding power module to the load; when multiple power modules are operating, control the switching devices corresponding to multiple power modules to turn on, connecting the power modules to the load through the soft-start circuit. The current transmitted to the load is controlled by the number of switching devices that are turned on. The impedance of the switching circuit is negatively correlated with the number of switching devices that are turned on.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of power management technology, and in particular to a multi-power module switching system and control method. Background Technology

[0002] In server systems, hot-swapping of power modules is a key technical requirement for achieving power redundancy and continuous power supply. However, in scenarios where multiple power modules operate in parallel, especially when a new power module is inserted when the existing power supply has a large output current, the newly inserted power module typically contains a large downstream capacitor. When this capacitive load is connected in parallel with the system bus, the existing power supply needs to charge it instantaneously. This process can easily cause abnormal fluctuations in output voltage and signal distortion, directly threatening the stable operation of the server.

[0003] Existing technical solutions mainly attempt to mitigate such interference by adjusting the parameters of the power module itself. Specific measures include limiting the capacitance of the downstream capacitor inside the power module or connecting a fixed resistor in series in the output path to suppress transient current. However, these methods have obvious limitations: on the one hand, the adjustment space for the power module parameters is limited, making it difficult to fundamentally eliminate mutual interference when different power modules are connected in parallel; on the other hand, although the introduction of a fixed resistor can suppress current surges to some extent, it will lead to continuous power loss, resulting in a decrease in system efficiency. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a multi-power module switching system and control method to at least solve the problem of voltage instability during power plugging and unplugging when multiple power modules are supplying power.

[0005] This application provides a multi-power module switching system, which includes a switching circuit and a soft-start circuit. The switching circuit includes multiple switching devices, each configured to connect to a power module. The soft-start circuit includes multiple control terminals, each electrically connected to a control terminal of a switching device. The soft-start circuit is configured to: when one power module is working, control any one switching device to turn on, connecting the corresponding power module to the load; when multiple power modules are working, control the switching devices corresponding to multiple power modules to turn on, connecting the power modules to the load through the soft-start circuit, controlling the current transmitted to the load by the number of switching devices turned on; wherein, the impedance of the switching circuit is negatively correlated with the number of switching devices turned on.

[0006] This application also provides a control method for a multi-power module switching system. The method includes: when one power module is working, controlling any one switching device to turn on, so that the corresponding power module is connected to the load; when multiple power modules are working, controlling the switching devices corresponding to multiple power modules to turn on, so that the power modules are connected to the load through a soft-start circuit, and controlling the current transmitted to the load by the number of switching devices turned on.

[0007] This application also provides an electronic device, including: a memory for storing a computer program; and a processor for executing the computer program to implement the steps of the control method of the above-described multi-power module switching system.

[0008] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program, wherein when the computer program is executed by a processor, it implements the steps of the control method of the above-described multi-power module switching system.

[0009] This application also provides a computer program product, including a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the steps of the control method for the above-described multi-power module switching system.

[0010] This application achieves time-division multiplexing and intelligent path management of multiple power supply modules through the collaborative design of switching circuits and soft-start circuits. Specifically, this multi-power supply module switching system can intelligently identify the operating status of power supply modules: when a single power supply is operating, it controls its direct connection to the load, avoiding unnecessary soft-start stages and achieving fast and efficient startup; while when multiple power supplies are operating, it forces subsequent power supplies to be connected through the same soft-start circuit, precisely managing current sharing by controlling the number of switching devices in operation. This fundamentally solves the redundancy problem of soft-start circuits in multi-power supply parallel systems, providing surge current suppression capability for all subsequently inserted power supply modules with only one circuit, significantly reducing system cost and complexity, while ensuring system stability and reliability during power supply hot-swapping. Attached Figure Description

[0011] To more clearly illustrate the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0012] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a multi-power module switching system provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0013] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a soft-start circuit provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0014] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of another multi-power module switching system provided in this application embodiment;

[0015] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of a voltage regulator circuit provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0016] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0017] 1. Switching circuit; 11. Switching device; 2. Soft start circuit; 21. First controller; 22. Current detection sub-circuit; 23. Power supply circuit; 24. Communication sub-circuit; 3. Voltage regulator circuit; 31. Second controller; 32. Energy storage sub-circuit; 33. Adjustable resistor; R1. First resistor; R2. Second resistor; R3. Third resistor; C1. First capacitor; C2. Second capacitor; M1. First switching transistor; M2. Second switching transistor; M3. Third switching transistor; 100. Multi-power module switching system; 150. Power module; 200. Load. Detailed Implementation

[0018] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the protection scope of this application.

[0019] It should be noted that, in the description of this application, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. The terms "first," "second," etc., in this application are used to distinguish similar objects and are not used to describe a specific order or sequence.

[0020] To enable those skilled in the art to better understand the present application, the present application will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.

[0021] Existing technologies primarily attempt to mitigate such interference by adjusting the parameters of the power module itself. Specific measures include limiting the capacitance of the downstream capacitors within the power module or connecting a fixed resistor in series in the output path to suppress transient current. However, these methods have significant limitations: on the one hand, the adjustment space for power module parameters is limited, making it difficult to fundamentally eliminate mutual interference when different power modules are connected in parallel; on the other hand, while the introduction of a fixed resistor can suppress current surges to some extent, it leads to continuous power loss, resulting in decreased system efficiency.

[0022] Current technical solutions exhibit significant limitations in adaptability when dealing with power modules from different manufacturers and diverse server load conditions. Parameter-adjustable solutions cannot fully address complex application scenarios and still pose a high risk of failure when using heterogeneous power modules or handling dynamic load changes.

[0023] Based on this, this application provides a multi-power module switching system, such as... Figure 1 As shown, the multi-power module switching system 100, used to continuously supply power to load 200, includes a switching circuit 1 and a soft-start circuit 2.

[0024] The switching circuit 1 includes a plurality of switching devices 11, each of which is configured to be connected to a power module 150;

[0025] The soft-start circuit 2 includes: multiple control terminals, each of which is electrically connected to the control terminal of a switching device 11;

[0026] The soft-start circuit 2 is configured to control any one of the switching devices 11 to turn on when one power module 150 is working, so that the corresponding power module 150 is connected to the load 200.

[0027] The soft-start circuit 2 is also configured to: when multiple power modules 150 are working, control the switching devices 11 corresponding to the multiple power modules 150 to be turned on, so that the power modules 150 are connected to the load 200 through the soft-start circuit 2, and control the magnitude of the current transmitted to the load 200 by the number of switching devices 11 turned on.

[0028] Among them, the impedance of the switching circuit is negatively correlated with the number of switching devices that are turned on.

[0029] In other words, the more switching devices that are turned on, the lower the impedance of the switching circuit, and the greater the current when the voltage is constant; similarly, the fewer switching devices that are turned on, the higher the impedance of the switching circuit, and the smaller the current when the voltage is constant. Thus, the amount of current transmitted to the load 200 can be controlled by controlling the number of switching devices 11 that are turned on.

[0030] In some embodiments, the load 200 is a server.

[0031] For example, when a server chassis is powered on for the first time or when only one power module 150 is plugged in, the soft-start circuit 2 will control the switching device 11 corresponding to the power module 150 to be directly turned on, forming a low-impedance path from the power supply to the server motherboard, thereby achieving fast startup.

[0032] When capacity expansion or power redundancy backup is required, the operator inserts a second power module 150. At this time, the soft-start circuit 2 detects the access of the new power supply and controls its corresponding switching device 11 to guide the output of the power module 150 to the soft-start circuit 2. Under the control of the soft-start circuit 2, the output capacitor inside the newly added power module 150 is charged, so that its output voltage starts from 0V and rises at a smooth and controlled slope. During this process, the current is limited to a safe value, thereby avoiding the huge surge current generated by the instantaneous charging of the capacitor.

[0033] Simultaneously, the soft-start circuit 2 continuously monitors the output voltage or current of the newly added power module 150. As this voltage or current slowly rises through the soft-start circuit 2 until it is very close to the voltage or current on the main load 200 bus, the soft-start circuit 2 changes the state of the switching device 11, switching the output of the newly added power module 150, which is already ready, from the soft-start circuit 2 branch to directly connect it to the load 200. Since the voltage or current of both are almost equal, no current surge occurs at the moment of parallel connection.

[0034] In other words, after a controlled current ramp-up process, the load 200 bus is then connected in parallel. By precisely controlling the turn-on timing of the two switching devices 11, a smooth switch-in of the new power supply is ensured, preventing current surges to the already stable first power supply and the server load 200.

[0035] The attached drawings of this application only show three switching devices 11, but there may also be two, four, or more. New power modules 150 may be added according to the actual situation. The specific process can be referred to the above, and will not be repeated here.

[0036] In summary, this application achieves time-division multiplexing and intelligent path management of multiple power supply modules 150 through the collaborative design of switching circuit 1 and soft-start circuit 2. Specifically, the multiple power supply module switching system 100 can intelligently identify the operating state of the power supply module 150: when a single power supply is working, it controls its direct-connected load 200, avoiding unnecessary soft-start steps and achieving fast and efficient startup; while when multiple power supplies are working, it forces subsequent power supplies to be connected through the same soft-start circuit 2, and precisely manages current sharing by controlling the number of switching devices 11 turned on. This fundamentally solves the redundancy problem of the soft-start circuit 2 in multi-power supply parallel systems, providing surge current suppression capability for all subsequently inserted power supply modules 150 with only one circuit, significantly reducing system cost and complexity, while ensuring system stability and reliability during power supply hot-swapping.

[0037] like Figure 2 As shown, the soft-start circuit 2 includes a first controller 21 and a current detection sub-circuit 22.

[0038] The first detection terminal of the first controller 21 is electrically connected to the first terminal of the current detection sub-circuit 22; the second detection terminal of the first controller 21 is electrically connected to the second terminal of the current detection sub-circuit 22.

[0039] The first end of the current detection sub-circuit 22 is also electrically connected to the output end of the power module 150, and the second end of the current detection sub-circuit 22 is also electrically connected to the switching device 11.

[0040] The first controller 21 is configured to detect the current of the current detection sub-circuit 22, which is recorded as the first current signal. It determines whether the first current signal is within the target current range. If not, it adjusts the number of switching devices 11 that are turned on to control the magnitude of the current transmitted to the load 200.

[0041] The switching device 11 is configured to convert the first current signal into a second current signal and transmit it to the load 200.

[0042] The target current range is the current at which the load 200 operates normally.

[0043] The current detection sub-circuit 22 is connected in series in the output path of the power module 150, and the voltage drop signal generated at its two ends is connected to the detection terminal of the first controller 21. When a new power module 150 is inserted and started via the soft start circuit 2, the first controller 21 continuously reads this voltage drop signal and converts it into a real-time current value, i.e., the first current signal.

[0044] The multi-power module switching system 100 presets a target current range corresponding to the safe operation of the load 200. Once the first current signal is detected to exceed this range due to a sudden change in the load 200 or a power switch, the first controller 21 will dynamically adjust the number of conducting switching devices 11; when the load 200 surges, an additional backup power module 150 is connected, or when the load 200 decreases, a module is disconnected, thereby ensuring that the current finally delivered to the load 200 (i.e., the second current signal) is always stabilized within the target range.

[0045] For example, if the first current signal is small, the number of switching devices 11 that are turned on can be increased. The multiple switching devices 11 that are turned on can be regarded as being turned on in parallel, and the total impedance will be reduced, thereby increasing the first current signal until it reaches the second current signal within the normal operating range of the load 200.

[0046] Similarly, if the first current signal is large, the number of switching devices 11 that are turned on can be reduced. The conduction of multiple switching devices 11 can be regarded as parallel conduction. The total impedance will increase relative to the number of switching devices 11, thereby reducing the first current signal until it reaches the second current signal within the normal operating range of the load 200.

[0047] like Figure 2 As shown, the current detection sub-circuit 22 includes: a first resistor R1.

[0048] The first end of the first resistor R1 is the first end of the current detection sub-circuit 22, and the second end of the first resistor R1 is the second end of the current detection sub-circuit 22.

[0049] For example, in the positive output path of power module 150, a high-precision, low-resistance milliohm-level first resistor R1 with a resistance of 5mΩ is connected in series. According to Ohm's law (U = I × R), the current flowing through this resistor, i.e. the first current signal, will be converted into a proportional small voltage drop.

[0050] When a 10A current flows through, a 50mV voltage drop will be generated across the 5mΩ resistor. This analog voltage signal is directly sent to the first controller 21. The first controller 21 samples this voltage value at a very high frequency and converts it back to a precise current value through its internal program, thereby realizing real-time monitoring of the output current. At the same time, the first controller 21 also presets the target current range for the load 200. This range is usually a window value, with the lower limit being the light load threshold and the upper limit being the overcurrent protection threshold.

[0051] When the load 200 starts large-scale operation and the load current rises sharply and approaches the upper limit, the first controller 21 determines that the current single power supply is about to be overloaded and immediately starts the backup power supply module 150, that is, the newly added power supply module 150. By controlling the switching device 11, the backup power supply module 150 is connected through the soft start circuit 2 to achieve current sharing.

[0052] When the load 200 drops sharply and the load current remains below the lower limit, the first controller 21, in order to improve energy efficiency, orderly disconnects the redundant power supply and controls the switching device 11 of one power module 150 to turn off, allowing it to enter standby mode, while the remaining power modules 150 continue to supply power at a higher efficiency.

[0053] In summary, by specifying the current detection sub-circuit 22 as the first resistor R1, and through real-time current feedback, it can not only complete the traditional soft-start function, but also actively respond to changes in the load 200 during operation and dynamically adjust the number of online power modules 150 to achieve precise current sharing and power distribution. This effectively solves the problem that traditional solutions cannot cope with dynamic changes in the load 200, preventing energy waste under light loads and avoiding voltage drops or system instability caused by heavy loads or transient overloads, thereby significantly improving the efficiency, adaptability, and reliability of the entire power supply system.

[0054] like Figure 2 As shown, the soft-start circuit 2 also includes an electronic power supply circuit 23.

[0055] The first terminal of the power supply circuit 23 is electrically connected to the first terminal of the current detection sub-circuit 22, the second terminal of the power supply circuit 23 is electrically connected to the ground terminal, and the third terminal of the power supply circuit 23 is electrically connected to the power supply terminal of the first controller 21.

[0056] The power supply circuit 23 acts as an independent power source, with its first end directly connected to the output terminal of the power module 150 before the current detection sub-circuit 22, thereby directly obtaining raw electrical energy from the power module 150.

[0057] The circuit can be composed of a low-dropout linear regulator or a DC-DC buck converter or voltage divider. Its third terminal provides a stable operating voltage (such as 3.3V or 5V) to the first controller 21, while its ground terminal (second terminal) is connected to the common ground of the system to establish a complete current loop.

[0058] This design ensures that the first controller 21 can always draw power from an independent and stable power source, regardless of any voltage fluctuations on the main power path caused by sudden load changes or hot-plugging operations, thus ensuring its operation remains undisturbed.

[0059] like Figure 2As shown, in some embodiments, the power supply circuit 23 includes a second resistor R2 and a third resistor R3.

[0060] The first end of the second resistor R2 is the first end of the electronic circuit 23, and the second end of the second resistor R2 is the third end of the electronic circuit 23.

[0061] The second end of the second resistor R2 is also electrically connected to the first end of the third resistor R3, and the second end of the third resistor R3 is the second end of the power supply circuit 23.

[0062] The second resistor R2 and the third resistor R3 are connected in series between the output terminal of the power module 150 and ground, forming a voltage divider. According to the voltage divider formula Vref = Vout * [R3 / (R2 + R3)], a precise fixed voltage Vref, lower than Vout, can be generated at the connection point of the two resistors (i.e., the third terminal of the power supply circuit 23). Vout refers to the output voltage of the power module 150.

[0063] This Vref voltage can be used to directly power the full-function operation of the first controller 21. When Vout is 12V, by selecting the resistance values ​​of the second resistor R2 and the third resistor R3, a 3.3V Vref can be generated to power the first controller 21.

[0064] like Figure 2 As shown, the switching device 11 includes: a first switching transistor M1.

[0065] The control terminal of the first switch M1 is electrically connected to the control terminal of the first controller 21, the first terminal of the first switch M1 is electrically connected to the second terminal of the current detection sub-circuit 22, and the second terminal of the first switch M1 is electrically connected to the load 200.

[0066] The first switch M1 is configured to convert the first current signal into a second current signal.

[0067] The second current signal is within the target current range.

[0068] In other words, the switching device 11 is specifically implemented as a first switching transistor M1 directly driven by the first controller 21, which is usually a power MOSFET; its gate, i.e. the control terminal, is connected to the first controller 21, its source, i.e. the first terminal, is connected after the current detection sub-circuit 22, and its drain, i.e. the second terminal, is directly connected to the load 200.

[0069] After the first controller 21 makes a decision based on the current detection result, it outputs a level signal to the gate of the first switch M1 to control its conduction level. In this way, the first current signal from the current detection sub-circuit 22 is precisely adjusted by the first switch M1, and its amplitude and waveform are shaped and converted into a stable and controlled second current signal, which is finally delivered to the load 200.

[0070] Compared with the traditional electromagnetic switching device 11, the first switching transistor M1 can respond to control signals within microseconds or even nanoseconds, achieving precise soft switching action. This not only completely eliminates inherent problems such as contact arcing, oxidation, and mechanical wear, but also greatly improves the reliability and service life of the system. At the same time, by controlling the on-resistance to participate in the change of current magnitude, it ensures that the current supplied to the load 200 is a stable electrical signal, whether at the moment of startup or when the dynamic load 200 changes, greatly improving the stability of the entire power supply system.

[0071] In some embodiments, when the switching device is a MOSFET, the MOSFET itself has internal resistance. The magnitude of the internal resistance can be controlled by controlling the conduction level of the MOSFET. Furthermore, the connection of multiple MOSFETs can be considered as a parallel connection. By controlling the number of MOSFETs in operation, the impedance of the switching circuit can also be controlled, thereby controlling the output current. In this way, the first controller 21 can control both the number of MOSFETs in operation to change the current magnitude and the conduction level of the MOSFETs to change the current magnitude.

[0072] like Figure 2 As shown, in some embodiments, the soft-start circuit 2 further includes a communication sub-circuit 24.

[0073] The communication sub-circuit 24 is connected to the first controller 21 and is configured to communicate with the external power module 150 or the baseboard controller of the server.

[0074] For example, our current server obtains the current power output based on current communication. The capacitive load during startup is 1000μF. This parameter can be obtained during the power supply design phase, and theoretically, the power supply plugged into the server must be of the same model, according to formula (1):

[0075] (1)

[0076] Where I is the charging current of the capacitor, C is the capacitance, and dV / dt is the rate of change of voltage across the capacitor. When the capacitor is charging, with a constant current, the capacitor voltage will increase at a uniform rate. Assuming the external capacitor is a capacitive load of 1000μF, then dV / dt = I / C = 24μA / 1000μF = 0.024V / s = 24mV / ms. Considering other parasitic parameters of the circuit and the internal circuit settings of the chip, the overall output voltage rise slope can be adjusted to approximately 2V / ms.

[0077] If the target output voltage is 12V, a soft start path of approximately 6ms is completed; the start current is achieved through the output drive capability of 24μA. This drive current and drive capability are the drive current of the soft start MOS at each moment. The soft start circuit drives one or more first switching transistors to achieve soft start. If multiple first switching transistors are involved, the drive current of each first switching transistor remains consistent.

[0078] The number and specifications of the first switching transistor are related to the output power supply specifications. If the current main output power supply is an 800W power supply, the expected output current is 67A. If the current first switching transistor is a 100A specification MOSFET, then only one needs to be driven. If it is a 1600W power supply, then two first switching transistors of this specification can be connected.

[0079] like Figure 3 As shown, the multi-power module switching system 100 also includes a voltage regulator circuit 3.

[0080] The input terminal of the voltage regulator circuit 3 is electrically connected to the soft-start circuit 2, and the output terminal of the voltage regulator circuit 3 is connected to the load 200.

[0081] The voltage regulator circuit 3 is configured to receive the second current signal, filter the second current signal, and convert it into a stable third current signal.

[0082] The voltage regulator circuit 3, acting as a post-processing unit, has its input connected after the output of the soft-start circuit 2, directly receiving the second current signal that has undergone preliminary control. This circuit typically consists of an LC filter network or an active voltage regulator.

[0083] When a second current signal containing switching noise or minor ripples enters the circuit, the energy storage element smooths out the sudden changes in current, while the capacitor absorbs high-frequency noise, ultimately outputting an extremely smooth and stable third current signal to the load 200.

[0084] The voltage regulator circuit 3 effectively filters out the ripple and noise of the second current signal in the pre-stage soft-start circuit 2, ensuring that the current delivered to the load 200 is pure and stable. This effectively prevents digital circuit errors, data loss or abnormal processor operation caused by poor power quality, and is suitable for high-performance computing scenarios (servers) with extremely high power integrity requirements.

[0085] like Figure 4 As shown, the voltage regulator circuit 3 includes: a second controller 31, an energy storage sub-circuit 32, and an adjustable resistor 33.

[0086] The first control terminal of the second controller 31 is electrically connected to the first control terminal of the energy storage sub-circuit 32, the second control terminal of the second controller 31 is electrically connected to the second control terminal of the energy storage sub-circuit 32, and the third control terminal of the second controller 31 is electrically connected to the control terminal of the adjustable resistor 33.

[0087] The input terminal of the energy storage sub-circuit 32 is the input terminal of the voltage regulator circuit 3, and the output terminal of the energy storage sub-circuit 32 is electrically connected to the first terminal of the adjustable resistor 33; the second terminal of the adjustable resistor 33 is the output terminal of the voltage regulator circuit 3.

[0088] The second controller 31, as an intelligent management unit, regulates the energy storage sub-circuit 32 and the adjustable resistor 33 through its multiple control terminals. The energy storage sub-circuit 32 is usually composed of multiple capacitor groups that can be connected in series with the switching transistor. The second controller 31 can dynamically control the capacitance of the filter by sending signals to its first and second control terminals.

[0089] Meanwhile, the third control terminal of the second controller 31 precisely sets the resistance value of the adjustable resistor 33 through digital-to-analog conversion or PWM signal. The second current signal from the previous stage is first buffered and filtered by the energy storage sub-circuit 32, and then flows through the adjustable resistor 33 set to the optimal resistance value, and finally converted into a third current signal and output to the load 200, forming a controlled RC filter network.

[0090] like Figure 4 As shown, the energy storage sub-circuit 32 includes: a first capacitor C1, a second capacitor C2, a second switch M2, and a third switch M3.

[0091] The first terminal of the first capacitor C1 is the first terminal of the energy storage sub-circuit 32, the second terminal of the first capacitor C1 is electrically connected to the first terminal of the second switch M2, and the second terminal of the second switch M2 is the output terminal of the energy storage sub-circuit 32.

[0092] The first terminal of the second capacitor C2 is the first terminal of the energy storage sub-circuit 32, and the second terminal of the second capacitor C2 is electrically connected to the first terminal of the third switch M3. The second terminal of the third switch M3 is the output terminal of the energy storage sub-circuit 32.

[0093] The control terminal of the second switch M2 is the first control terminal of the energy storage sub-circuit 32, and the control terminal of the third switch M3 is the second control terminal of the energy storage sub-circuit 32.

[0094] The second controller 31 is configured to control the on / off state of the second switch M2 and the third switch M3.

[0095] First, the function of the first capacitor C1 and the second capacitor C2 is to store energy. When the current suddenly increases, they discharge to make up for the energy gap and prevent the voltage drop; when the current suddenly decreases, they charge to absorb excess energy and prevent voltage overshoot.

[0096] The main function of the adjustable resistor 33 is to dissipate energy and control the charging and discharging speed of the first capacitor C1 and the second capacitor C2, suppressing damped oscillations caused by LC resonance and other reasons, so that the voltage can transition smoothly.

[0097] The second controller 31 is used to monitor parameters in real time, such as output load current (I), expected response time (τ), and allowable voltage fluctuation range (ΔU).

[0098] Based on the above input, the optimal RC network parameters under the current operating conditions are calculated in real time through an internal algorithm, namely the required capacitance value C and resistance value R.

[0099] By controlling the second switch M2 and the third switch M3 to dynamically connect or disconnect capacitors of different capacitance values, and adjusting the resistance value of the variable resistor, an adaptive transient stable circuit is formed.

[0100] For example, the system rated voltage is U0 = 12V; the allowable voltage fluctuation range is ΔUmax = U0 × 5% = 0.6V; the maximum load current change is ΔI = Imax / 2, taking the current sharing switching of dual power supplies as an example, the change is half of the load; for an 800W power supply: I = 800W / 12V ≈ 64A, ΔI = 32A; the transient process time is t = 50μs.

[0101] The energy fluctuation caused by a sudden change in current on the load is ΔE≈ΔI×ΔU×t. Taking an 800W power supply as an example: ΔE≈32A×0.6V×50×10 6 s=9.6×10 4 J.

[0102] The energy that a capacitor needs to store is at least equal to the fluctuating energy gap, that is...

[0103] (2)

[0104] ΔE = 9.6 × 10 4Substitute J into formula (2) to calculate the capacitance value of capacitor C. C≥137μF. Then adjust the actual capacitor size according to the actual capacitor specifications and transient time. Usually, leave a margin for time. For an 800W power supply, a 220μF capacitor can be selected.

[0105] The adjustable resistor 33 is used to limit inrush current and suppress oscillation; its voltage drop must not exceed the allowable voltage fluctuation.

[0106] (3)

[0107] Substituting ΔI=32A into formula (3), the calculated resistance of the adjustable resistor is 0.01875Ω. The RC load is designed based on this, limiting the upper limit of the load. The input and calculation parts are handled by the second controller. The selection of capacitors is mainly based on the current power supply selection rules, such as the soft-start identification of the power supply specifications. If the power supply specification is 800W, only one capacitor can be selected, using a 220μF capacitor and adjusting the resistance to 0.02Ω for transient resistance. If the power supply is 1600W, two capacitors can be selected, each 220μF for resistance, and the resistance adjusted to 0.04Ω.

[0108] In summary, this application creatively achieves a power management mechanism of time-sharing multiplexing and load adaptation through the collaborative design of a soft-start circuit and an intelligent switching circuit. This multi-power module switching system can not only utilize the time gap between power plugging and unplugging to allow a single soft-start circuit to serve all subsequently inserted power modules in sequence, significantly reducing hardware costs and complexity; at the same time, it automatically adjusts the soft-start time according to the real-time load current of the server, and combines it with a dynamically adjustable RC transient suppression network (voltage regulator circuit) to accurately match the dynamic characteristics of different power specifications and operating conditions, thereby achieving efficient and reliable operation of the system across the entire power range while ensuring that there is no current or voltage surge during any hot-plugging operation.

[0109] This application also provides a control method for a multi-power module switching system, the method comprising:

[0110] S1. When a power module 150 is working, control any switching device 11 to turn on, so that the corresponding power module 150 is connected to the load 200.

[0111] S2. When multiple power modules 150 are working, control the switching devices 11 corresponding to the multiple power modules 150 to be turned on, so that the power modules 150 are connected to the load 200 through the soft start circuit 2, and control the amount of current transmitted to the load 200 by the number of switching devices 11 turned on.

[0112] Step S1 defines the single power supply working mode: when the server chassis is powered on for the first time, the system automatically controls the switching device 11 corresponding to the first power module 150 to be directly turned on, establishing a direct connection from the power supply to the server motherboard, and realizing fast startup.

[0113] Step S2 defines the multi-power supply operating mode: when the second power module 150 is inserted, the system identifies its specifications and controls its corresponding switching device 11 to guide its output to the soft-start circuit 2; at the same time, based on the real-time monitored load current, the system dynamically adjusts the conduction combination of multiple switching devices 11. When the load current exceeds the threshold, the system immediately connects the backup power supply to share the load 200. When the load 200 decreases, the redundant power supply is disconnected in an orderly manner, thereby achieving precise current sharing control and energy efficiency management.

[0114] Embodiments of this application also provide an electronic device, including a memory and a processor, wherein the memory stores a computer program, and the processor is configured to run the computer program to perform the steps in any of the above embodiments of the control method for a multi-power module switching system.

[0115] Embodiments of this application also provide a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program, wherein the computer program is configured to execute the steps in any of the above embodiments of the control method for a multi-power module switching system when it is run.

[0116] In one exemplary embodiment, the aforementioned computer-readable storage medium may include, but is not limited to, various media capable of storing computer programs, such as a USB flash drive, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), portable hard disk, magnetic disk, or optical disk.

[0117] The embodiments of this application also provide a computer program product, which includes a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the steps in the control method embodiments of any of the above-described multi-power module switching systems.

[0118] Embodiments of this application also provide another computer program product, including a non-volatile computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program, which, when executed by a processor, implements the steps in any of the above embodiments of the control method for a multi-power module switching system.

[0119] Those skilled in the art will further recognize that the units and algorithm steps of the various examples described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in electronic hardware, computer software, or a combination of both. To clearly illustrate the interchangeability of hardware and software, the components and steps of the various examples have been generally described in terms of functionality in the foregoing description. Whether these functions are implemented in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.

[0120] The foregoing has provided a detailed description of the multi-power module switching system, control method, electronic device, storage medium, and computer program product provided in this application. Specific examples have been used to illustrate the principles and implementation methods of this application. The descriptions of the embodiments above are only intended to aid in understanding the methods and core ideas of this application. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various improvements and modifications to this application without departing from its principles, and these improvements and modifications also fall within the protection scope of the claims of this application.

Claims

1. A multi-power module switching system, characterized in that, include: A switching circuit includes multiple switching devices, each of which is configured to connect to a power module. The soft-start circuit includes: multiple control terminals, each of which is electrically connected to the control terminal of a switching device; The soft-start circuit is configured to: when one power module is working, control any one switching device to turn on, so that the corresponding power module is connected to the load; when multiple power modules are working, control the switching devices corresponding to multiple power modules to turn on, so that the power modules are connected to the load through the soft-start circuit, and control the magnitude of the current transmitted to the load by the number of switching devices turned on. The impedance of the switching circuit is negatively correlated with the number of switching devices that are turned on. The soft-start circuit includes: a first controller and a current detection sub-circuit; The first detection terminal of the first controller is electrically connected to the first terminal of the current detection sub-circuit; the second detection terminal of the first controller is electrically connected to the second terminal of the current detection sub-circuit. The first terminal of the current detection sub-circuit is also electrically connected to the output terminal of the power module, and the second terminal of the current detection sub-circuit is also electrically connected to the switching device. The first controller is configured to detect the current of the current detection sub-circuit, denoted as the first current signal, and determine whether the first current signal is within the target current range. If not, the controller adjusts the number of the switching devices that are turned on to control the magnitude of the current transmitted to the load. The switching device is configured to convert the first current signal into a second current signal and transmit it to the load.

2. The multi-power module switching system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The target current range is the current at which the load operates normally.

3. The multi-power module switching system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The current detection sub-circuit includes: a first resistor; The first end of the first resistor is the first end of the current detection sub-circuit, and the second end of the first resistor is the second end of the current detection sub-circuit.

4. The multi-power module switching system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The soft-start circuit also includes: an electronic power supply circuit; The first terminal of the power supply circuit is electrically connected to the first terminal of the current detection sub-circuit, the second terminal of the power supply circuit is electrically connected to the ground terminal, and the third terminal of the power supply circuit is electrically connected to the power supply terminal of the first controller.

5. The multi-power module switching system according to claim 4, characterized in that, The power supply circuit includes: a second resistor and a third resistor; The first end of the second resistor is the first end of the electron supply circuit, and the second end of the second resistor is the third end of the electron supply circuit; The second end of the second resistor is also electrically connected to the first end of the third resistor, and the second end of the third resistor is the second end of the power supply circuit.

6. The multi-power module switching system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The switching device includes: a first switching transistor; The control terminal of the first switching transistor is electrically connected to the control terminal of the first controller, the first terminal of the first switching transistor is electrically connected to the second terminal of the current detection sub-circuit, and the second terminal of the first switching transistor is electrically connected to the load. The first switch is configured to convert the first current signal into a second current signal; The second current signal is within the target current range.

7. The multi-power module switching system according to claim 2, characterized in that, It also includes a voltage regulator circuit; The input terminal of the voltage regulator circuit is electrically connected to the soft-start circuit, and the output terminal of the voltage regulator circuit is connected to the load. The voltage regulator circuit is configured to receive the second current signal and filter it to convert it into a stable third current signal.

8. The multi-power module switching system according to claim 7, characterized in that, The voltage regulator circuit includes: a second controller, an energy storage sub-circuit, and an adjustable resistor; The first control terminal of the second controller is electrically connected to the first control terminal of the energy storage sub-circuit, the second control terminal of the second controller is electrically connected to the second control terminal of the energy storage sub-circuit, and the third control terminal of the second controller is electrically connected to the control terminal of the adjustable resistor. The input terminal of the energy storage sub-circuit is the input terminal of the voltage regulator circuit, and the output terminal of the energy storage sub-circuit is electrically connected to the first terminal of the adjustable resistor; the second terminal of the adjustable resistor is the output terminal of the voltage regulator circuit.

9. The multi-power module switching system according to claim 8, characterized in that, The energy storage sub-circuit includes: a first capacitor, a second capacitor, a second switch, and a third switch; The first terminal of the first capacitor is the first terminal of the energy storage sub-circuit, the second terminal of the first capacitor is electrically connected to the first terminal of the second switching transistor, and the second terminal of the second switching transistor is the output terminal of the energy storage sub-circuit. The first terminal of the second capacitor is the first terminal of the energy storage sub-circuit, the second terminal of the second capacitor is electrically connected to the first terminal of the third switch, and the second terminal of the third switch is the output terminal of the energy storage sub-circuit. The control terminal of the second switch is the first control terminal of the energy storage sub-circuit, and the control terminal of the third switch is the second control terminal of the energy storage sub-circuit; The second controller is configured to control the on / off state of the second switch and the third switch.

10. A control method for a multi-power module switching system, characterized in that, The method, applied in any one of claims 1 to 9, comprises: When a power module is working, control any one switching device to turn on, so that the corresponding power module is connected to the load; When multiple power modules are working, the switching devices corresponding to the multiple power modules are controlled to be turned on, so that the power modules are connected to the load through the soft start circuit, and the amount of current transmitted to the load is controlled by the number of the switching devices turned on.

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