Rack mounted automatic transfer switch with electronic bypass

Abstract

The present technology relates to a method of supplying power and a switching device or system implementing such a method. The method can include providing a switching device including an automatic transfer switch module, an electronic bypass module in electrical communication with the automatic transfer switch module, a plurality of input ports, and a plurality of output ports. The input ports are connected to different power sources to supply uninterrupted power to the plurality of output ports. The method can also include continuing to supply uninterrupted power when either the automatic transfer switch module or the electronic bypass module is disconnected from the switching device.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 601,574, filed March 11, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Background Technology

[0002] An automatic transfer switch (ATS) is an electrical device that supplies power to one or more electrical loads by connecting them to one of two power sources. The primary purpose of an ATS is to ensure power supply to the load in the event that one of the power sources fails. Upon detecting a problem with the power source connected to the load, the ATS disconnects the faulty power source and connects the load to the other power source without operator intervention. Using two power sources and one ATS reduces the mean time between failures (MTBF) in power supply to the load due to power failures.

[0003] An ATS may include sensor circuitry, power switching circuitry, control circuitry, operator interface circuitry, and optionally communication circuitry. The sensor circuitry measures the voltages of two power sources, which are monitored by the control circuitry, which monitors power quality parameters for each power source, such as voltage level and frequency. If the power quality parameters exceed acceptable limits configured by the operator via the operator interface and / or optional communication circuitry, the control circuitry signals the power switching circuitry to disconnect the electrical load from the problematic power source and connect the electrical load to another power source. This helps minimize the cumulative time spent by the circuitry performing the following operations: (1) detecting that the power quality exceeds acceptable limits; (2) disconnecting the electrical load from the problematic power source; and (3) connecting the electrical load to another power source, thereby preventing malfunction of the electrical load due to power source failure.

[0004] The power switching circuit of an Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS) can use relays or contactors. Some ATSs are often referred to as static transfer switches, and their power switching circuits use semiconductor devices. Some ATSs are often referred to as hybrid transfer switches, and they use relays or contactors in parallel with semiconductor devices as power switching circuits. In this patent application, the terms "automatic transfer switch" or "ATS" are used to refer to any automatic transfer switch, regardless of the type of power switching circuit it employs.

[0005] A rack-mount ATS is an ATS built into a chassis that can be installed in a computer server rack cabinet. A rack-mount ATS includes two input ports for power connection and one or more output ports for connecting electrical loads within the rack, such as computers, memory storage units, and networking devices.

[0006] If a rack-mount ATS experiences an internal circuitry failure or malfunction, the repair process may require a time-consuming and complex procedure to replace it with a functioning ATS. The replacement procedure typically involves: (1) shutting off both power supplies; (2) disconnecting the power cables and electrical load cables from the input and output ports of the rack-mount ATS; (3) removing the rack enclosure containing the faulty ATS from the rack; (4) reinstalling the replacement rack-mount ATS in the rack; (5) reconnecting the power cables to the input and output ports of the rack-mount ATS; and (6) turning on both power supplies. The mean time required to replace a malfunctioning device is called the Mean Time To Repair (MTTR). Reducing MTTR is highly desirable because it reduces the time the electrical load is without power.

[0007] Sometimes, rack-mounted ATSs include an electromechanical bypass to reduce the complexity of the procedure and MTTR required to replace a malfunctioning automatic transfer switch. A rack-mounted ATS with an electromechanical bypass typically includes: (1) a rack-mounted enclosure containing two input ports, one or more output ports, and an electromechanical bypass including a selector switch and optional circuitry such as relays and contactors; and (2) a field-replaceable ATS module. The replacement procedure typically requires: (1) rotating the selector switch through a series of steps to electrically disconnect the ATS module and electrically connect the output port to one of the input ports via the bypass; (2) removing the malfunctioning ATS module from the enclosure and inserting the replacement module; and (3) rotating the selector switch back to its original position so that the replaced ATS module can control which input port supplies power to the output port.

[0008] Figure 1 An example of a selector switch 100 integrated into a mechanical bypass according to an existing implementation is shown. A seven-position (or seven-pole) selector switch is used to perform the bypass. The bypass operation proceeds in a series of steps to ensure uninterrupted power supply to the output port and to prevent short circuits between the two input ports. A short circuit could damage both the ATS module and the electromechanical bypass. At the start of the bypass sequence, the selector switch is in the automatic position 104, allowing the ATS module to determine which input port powers the output port. When rotated to position 103, the ATS module connects the output port to input port 1 and is prevented from switching the output port to input port 2. When rotated to position 102, the output port is connected to input port 1 via both the ATS module and the electromechanical bypass. Finally, when rotated to position 101, the output port is connected to input port 1 only via the electromechanical bypass, at which point the ATS module is off and can be safely removed and replaced.

[0009] Electromechanical bypasses built into rack enclosures present challenges related to size, fault tolerance, and operator error. For example, selector switches with the required number of poles and throws and safety ratings capable of carrying the power supply voltage may be too large, resulting in rack enclosure heights of two or more rack spaces. Minimizing rack enclosure height is desirable to allocate more rack space for electrical loads within the rack.

[0010] If the selector switch or the circuitry associated with the bypass fails, the rack chassis must be removed and replaced following the same procedure required for replacing a rack-mounted ATS that does not include bypass functionality. This procedure is both time-consuming and complex. During the replacement process, the electrical loads will be without power.

[0011] Care must be taken when operating the selector switch. If the operator mistakenly rotates the selector switch to an input port connected to a faulty power source, the electrical load will lose power. Attached Figure Description

[0012] A detailed description of implementations of the present invention will be given and explained using the accompanying drawings.

[0013] Figure 1 An exemplary selector switch that can be incorporated into a mechanical bypass is shown.

[0014] Figure 2A A front and rear perspective view of an embodiment of a rack-mounted ATS 270 with electronic bypass is shown.

[0015] Figure 2B A representative front panel 200 of the automatic transfer switch module 283 of the rack-mounted ATS 270 with electronic bypass is shown.

[0016] Figure 2C A representative layout of the front panel 250 of the electronic bypass module 282 of the rack-mounted ATS 270 with electronic bypass is shown.

[0017] Figure 3 This is a block diagram showing the interconnection wiring of the automatic transfer switch module 283 and the electronic bypass module 282 included in the rack-mounted ATS 270 with electronic bypass.

[0018] Figure 4 The flowchart illustrates a representative algorithm based on some implementations, which the microprocessor 313 of the electronic bypass module can use to bypass the ATS module so that it can be replaced.

[0019] Figure 5 The flowchart illustrates a representative algorithm that the microprocessor 313 of the electronic bypass module can use to disconnect the electronic bypass module from the input port.

[0020] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating a representative process for supplying power from one of the input ports to the output port, according to some implementations.

[0021] The technology described herein will become more apparent to those skilled in the art by studying the specific embodiments in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Embodiments or implementations describing various aspects of the invention are shown by way of example, and the same reference numerals may indicate similar elements. Although various implementations are depicted in the drawings for illustrative purposes, those skilled in the art will recognize that alternative implementations may be employed without departing from the principles of the invention. Therefore, while specific implementations are shown in the drawings, various modifications can still be made to the technology. Detailed Implementation

[0022] The disclosed technology broadly describes a switching device. More specifically, the disclosed technology describes a rack-mounted switching device in the form of an automatic transfer switch with electronic bypass, comprising: (1) a field-replaceable plug-in module (ATS module) containing the automatic transfer switch; (2) a field-replaceable plug-in module (electronic bypass module) containing the electronic bypass; and (3) a rack-mounted enclosure including two input ports, one or more output ports, and a backplane into which the ATS module and the electronic bypass module are inserted. The backplane allows the two modules to be connected to and interconnected with the input ports and the output ports.

[0023] The disclosed electronic bypass module overcomes the size disadvantages of electromechanical bypasses. The chassis incorporating the electromechanical bypass has a height of two or more rack spaces (i.e., 3.5 inches), while the rack-mounted ATS with electronic bypass has a height of one rack space (i.e., 1.75 inches). This size reduction is primarily due to the elimination of the large multi-pole multi-throw high-voltage selector switch, replaced by a small 3-pole single-throw low-voltage selector switch and a microprocessor. The microprocessor in the electronic bypass module communicates with the microprocessor in the ATS module to execute the series of steps required to complete the bypass without causing a short circuit or loss of power to the electrical load.

[0024] The disclosed electronic bypass module overcomes the drawbacks of electromechanical bypasses. Replacing an electromechanical bypass can require a complex and time-consuming procedure involving the replacement of the entire rack-mounted automatic transfer switch, during which time the electrical load loses power. The procedure for replacing a malfunctioning electronic bypass module involves: removing the malfunctioning electronic bypass module from the chassis and then inserting the replacement module. During the replacement procedure, power supply to the electrical load is maintained.

[0025] The disclosed electronic bypass prevents operator error. The microprocessor of the electronic bypass module controls the bypass process and prevents bypass to input ports where power supply failure has occurred.

[0026] This specification and the accompanying drawings are illustrative examples and should not be construed as limiting. This disclosure provides certain details to enable a thorough understanding and implementation of the description of these examples. However, those skilled in the art will understand that the invention can be practiced without many of these details. Similarly, those skilled in the art will understand that the invention may include well-known structures or features not shown or described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the description of the examples.

[0027] Figure 2A Front and rear perspective views of an embodiment of a rack-mounted ATS with electronic bypass are shown. The rack-mounted ATS 270 with electronic bypass is housed in a rack-mounted enclosure 280 (e.g., an industry-standard 19-inch wide rack-mounted enclosure). The enclosure height is one rack unit (RU), equivalent to 1.75 inches. The rack-mounted enclosure includes two input ports 284 for connecting to a power supply and one or more output ports 285 for connecting to electrical loads. In some implementations, the enclosure height is 2 RU or 3.5 inches, depending on the number of output ports and whether circuit breakers are required for higher current electrical loads.

[0028] like Figure 2A As shown, the rack-mounted ATS 270 with electronic bypass includes an electronic bypass module 282 and an ATS module 283, both of which are field-replaceable modules that can be inserted into the front of the rack-mounted chassis 280.

[0029] Figure 2B A representative front panel 200 of the ATS module 283 is shown. The front panel 200 may include multiple connectors 201. For example, connectors 201 may include an Ethernet port that enables the ATS module 283 to be remotely managed via Ethernet.

[0030] In some embodiments, connector 201 may allow attachment of external sensors, such as humidity, temperature, water level, and / or air pressure sensors. Connector 201 may also allow attachment of USB devices, such as memory devices containing firmware updates for the microprocessors contained within ATS module 283 and electronic bypass module 282.

[0031] The front panel 200 of the ATS module 283 may also include a liquid crystal display (LCD) 202. The LCD 202 allows the operator to view the power status and the operation and configuration of the rack-mounted ATS 270 with electronic bypass. In some embodiments, the front panel of the changeover module 283 includes a keypad 203. In other embodiments, the LCD 202 is a touchscreen, thus eliminating the need for a keypad. A keypad or touchscreen allows the operator to navigate menus and select options displayed on the LCD 202.

[0032] In some embodiments, the communication interface enables the transmission of information between the electronic bypass module 282 and the ATS module 283. In some embodiments, this allows for monitoring of the status and operating conditions of both the electronic bypass module 282 and the ATS module 283 via the LCD 202, or for remote monitoring via Ethernet.

[0033] The front panel 200 of the ATS module 283 may also include a microprocessor that implements functions associated with one or more of the connector 201, LCD 202 and keyboard 203 and communicates with the microprocessor 333 of the ATS module.

[0034] Figure 2C A representative front panel 250 of the electronic bypass module 282 is shown. The front panel 250 includes a 3-pole, 1-throw low-voltage selector switch 251. (The last sentence appears to be incomplete and possibly refers to a different topic.) Figure 2C In the illustrated implementation, selector switch 251 includes three positions controlling the bypass function. When selector switch 251 is in the automatic position, the output port is powered by ATS module 283, and ATS module 283 determines which input port supplies power to the output port. When selector switch 251 is in the bypass I1 position, the microprocessor 313 of the electronic bypass module executes an algorithm that causes the output port to be powered by input port 1 through electronic bypass module 282, and disconnects ATS module 283, allowing ATS module 283 to be replaced. When selector switch 251 is in the bypass I2 position, the microprocessor 313 of the electronic bypass module executes a similar algorithm to bypass to input port 2.

[0035] The front panel 250 of the electronic bypass module 282 may include a visual display. Figure 2B In the illustrated embodiment, light-emitting diodes (LEDs) 252, 253, and 254 are used to display the power quality of the power supply, the status of the power switching circuit, and the power delivered to the output port.

[0036] The tri-color green / yellow / red LED 252 displays the power quality of the power supply: green (normal) indicates good power quality, yellow (warning) indicates acceptable but not optimal power quality, and red (severe) indicates power loss or insufficient power quality to supply power. In some embodiments, the LED indicator may have only green and red LEDs to indicate whether the associated power supply is acceptable for powering electrical loads.

[0037] The dual-color red / green LED 253 indicates the status of the power switching circuits within the ATS module 283 and the electronic bypass module 282. No color (off) indicates the corresponding power switching circuit is off and not supplying power to the output port. Green (on) indicates the corresponding power switching circuit is on and supplying power to the output port. Red (fault) indicates the corresponding power switching circuit is experiencing a fault, suggesting the module with the defective power switching circuit should be replaced. For example, Figure 2C A scenario is shown in which: (1) selector switch 251 is in the auto position; (2) the topmost bicolor red / green LED 253 is green, indicating that the ATS module 283 is supplying power from input port 1 to output port; and (3) the remaining bicolor red / green LEDs 253 are off, indicating that all other power switching circuits are off and no power switching circuit is experiencing a fault.

[0038] A dual-color red / green LED 254 indicates whether power is being supplied to the output port. Green indicates that power is being supplied, while red indicates that power is not being supplied. In some embodiments, each output port may be associated with a separate LED to signal the power supply status of each output port.

[0039] Figure 3 This is a block diagram 300 showing the hardware circuitry and wiring interconnections within a rack-mounted ATS 270 with electronic bypass. AC power circuit wiring is depicted using single-line diagrams to represent a two-wire single-phase AC circuit or a three-wire or more three-phase AC circuit. Line 361 is a single-line diagram depicting the wiring conductors at input port 1. Line 362 is a single-line diagram depicting the wiring conductors at input port 2. Line 363 is a single-line diagram depicting the wiring conductors at the output port. (See attached diagram.) Figure 3 As shown, the rear panel 360 of the chassis includes sockets for input and output ports. The number of output ports and the type of sockets vary by model and depend on the rated power of the rack-mount ATS, international electrical requirements, and customer preferences. Therefore, rear panel 360 is depicted only as one of many possible configurations for representative purposes.

[0040] The socket on the rear panel 360 interconnects with the electronic bypass module 310 and the ATS module 330 via the back panel 350. As previously mentioned, the electronic bypass module 310 and the ATS module 330 are field-replaceable modules that are removably inserted into the back panel 350. The electronic bypass module 310 is functionally equivalent to... Figure 2C The electronic bypass module 282, and the ATS module 330 are functionally equivalent to Figure 2B The ATS module 283.

[0041] The electronic bypass module 310 includes a front panel 311, similar to Figure 2C The front panel is depicted in the figure. The electronic bypass module 310 includes a printed circuit board (PCB) 312 containing the circuitry of the electronic bypass module. The PCB 312 may include: (1) a mounting sensor 320; (2) two power supplies 319A-B, each connected to a corresponding input port; (3) two input port voltage sensors 318A-B, each connected to a corresponding input port; (4) an output port voltage sensor 317 connected to an output port; (5) two power switch circuits 316A-B for supplying power to the output ports: one for input port 1 and the other for input port 2; (6) a microprocessor 313 for the electronic bypass module; and (7) a communication interface 314. For simplicity, Figure 3 Various common components are omitted. Other implementations of the electronic bypass module 310 include additional, fewer, or different components on PCB 312.

[0042] The microprocessor 313 of the electronic bypass module can control the functions of the electronic bypass module 310. The microprocessor 313 of the electronic bypass module may include: (1) an analog-to-digital converter for digitizing analog signals from one or more voltage sensors 317 and 318A-B; (2) digital inputs for sensing digital on / off signals, such as selector switch 251 and mounting sensor 320; (3) digital outputs for controlling on / off circuitry, such as two power switch circuits 316A-B and front panel LEDs 252, 253, and 254; and (4) communication circuitry, such as RS-485, serving as a communication interface 314 with the microprocessor 333 of the ATS module. For this purpose, and without limiting the scope of this disclosure, the microprocessor 313 of the electronic bypass module may be an STM32F030C8T6 from STMicroelectronics.

[0043] Two power switching circuits 316A-B control which input port supplies power to the output port. In some implementations, power switching circuits 316A-B are semiconductor devices connected in parallel with a relay or contactor. When selector switch 251 is in the automatic position, both power switching circuits 316A-B are open. When selector switch 251 is in the bypass I1 position, power switching circuit 316A connected to input port 1 is closed, allowing power to flow from input port 1 to the output port. Alternatively, when selector switch 251 is in the bypass I2 position, power switching circuit 316B connected to input port 2 is closed, allowing power to flow from input port 2 to the output port.

[0044] Output port voltage sensor 317 generates an analog signal proportional to the output port voltage. The microprocessor 313 of the electronic bypass module can use output port voltage sensor 317 to determine whether the power switch circuits 316A-B are operating correctly. In some implementations, the microprocessor 313 of the electronic bypass module also uses output port voltage sensor 317 to control the front panel LED 254.

[0045] Input port voltage sensors 318A-B generate signals proportional to the input port voltage. The microprocessor 313 of the electronic bypass module can use the input port voltage sensors 318 to determine the power quality associated with the power supply connected to each input port. In some implementations, the microprocessor 313 of the electronic bypass module can prevent bypass to a power supply with poor power quality.

[0046] The low-voltage power supply 319A-B can supply power to the PCB 312 of the electronic bypass module 310. The low-voltage power supply 319A-B ensures that the PCB 312 can still receive power when one or the other power supply fails.

[0047] Mounting sensor 320 can generate a signal indicating whether the electronic bypass module PCB 312 is fully inserted into the backplane 350. The mounting sensor can be used to prevent power from being supplied to the output port before the electronic bypass module PCB 312 is fully inserted. In some implementations, mounting sensor 320 is wired through the backplane 350 to the microprocessor 333 of the ATS module, thereby allowing the microprocessor 333 of the ATS module to determine whether the electronic bypass module 310 is mounted.

[0048] The mounting sensor 320, in conjunction with the microprocessor 313 of the electronic bypass module, can delay the activation of the power switch circuits 316A-B for a period of time after the electronic bypass module 310 is installed, to prevent arcing damage to the backplane 350. In some embodiments, before removing the installed electronic bypass module 310, the mounting sensor 320 communicates to the microprocessor 313 of the electronic bypass module that the electronic bypass module 310 is being removed. Upon receiving information about module removal, the microprocessor 313 of the electronic bypass module can forcibly disconnect the power switch circuits 316A or 316B to prevent arcing damage to the backplane 350. Additionally, upon receiving information about module removal, the microprocessor 313 of the electronic bypass module can communicate this information to the microprocessor 333 of the ATS module via the communication interface 314.

[0049] The ATS module 330 includes a front panel 331 (similar to...). Figure 2B The front panel depicted in the image) and a printed circuit board (PCB) 332 containing the ATS module circuitry. PCB 332 may include: (1) a mounting sensor 340; (2) two low-voltage power supplies 339A-B, each connected to a corresponding input port; (3) two sets of input port voltage and current sensors 338A-B, each connected to a corresponding input port; (4) an output port voltage and current sensor 337 connected to an output port; (5) a microprocessor 333 for the ATS module; and (6) a communication interface 314. For simplicity, Figure 3 Various common components are omitted. Other implementations of the changeover switch module 330 include additional, fewer, or different components on PCB 332.

[0050] The microprocessor 333 of the ATS module controls the functions of the ATS module 330. The microprocessor 333 of the ATS module may include: (1) an analog-to-digital converter for digitizing analog signals from one or more of the voltage and current sensors 337 and 338A-B; (2) digital inputs for mounting sensors such as sensor 340; (3) digital outputs for controlling on / off circuits (such as two power switch circuits 336A-B); and (4) communication circuitry, such as RS-485, used as a communication interface 314 for communicating with the microprocessor 313 of the electronic bypass module and the microprocessor on the front panel of the ATS. For this purpose, and without limiting the scope of this disclosure, the microprocessor 333 of the ATS module may be a STMicroelectronics model STM32F446ZCJ6 (or alternatively, STM32F446ZCJ7, STM32F446ZEJ6 or STM32F446ZEJ7) or a GigaDevice model GD32F4271KH6.

[0051] Two power switching circuits 336A-B control which input port supplies power to the output port. In some implementations, the power switching circuits 336A-B are semiconductor devices connected in parallel with a relay or contactor. When the selector switch 251 is in the automatic position, the microprocessor 333 of the ATS module determines which input port supplies power to the output port by closing one of the two power switching circuits 336A-B.

[0052] The output port voltage and current sensor 337 generates analog signals proportional to the output port voltage and current. The output port voltage and current sensor 337 can be used to verify the correct operation of the power switching circuits 336A-B.

[0053] Input port voltage and current sensors 338A-B generate analog signals proportional to the voltage and current at each input port. The ATS module's microprocessor 333 can use the input port voltage and current sensors 338A-B to determine the power quality of each power source. When the selector switch 251 is in the auto position, the ATS module's microprocessor 333 can use the power quality measurements to select which input port supplies power to the output port. In some embodiments, the current sensor can be used to detect faults in the power switch 336. In some embodiments, the ATS module's microprocessor 333 uses the input port voltage and current sensors 338A-B to generate power meter measurements, such as voltage, current, power, energy, and power factor.

[0054] Low-voltage power supply 339A-B supplies power to PCB 332. Low-voltage power supply 339A-B ensures that PCB 332 can still receive power when one or the other power supply fails.

[0055] Mounting sensor 340 can generate a signal indicating whether the ATS module PCB 332 is fully inserted into the backplane 350. The mounting sensor can be used to prevent power from being supplied to the output port before the ATS module PCB 332 is fully inserted. In some implementations, mounting sensor 340 is wired through backplane 350 to the microprocessor 313 of the electronic bypass module, thereby allowing the microprocessor 313 of the electronic bypass module to determine whether the electronic ATS module 330 is mounted.

[0056] The mounting sensor 340, in conjunction with the microprocessor 333 of the ATS module, can delay the activation of the power switch circuits 336A-B for a period of time after the ATS module 330 is installed, to prevent arcing damage to the backplane 350. In some embodiments, before removing the installed ATS module 330, the mounting sensor 340 communicates to the microprocessor 333 of the ATS module that the ATS module 330 is being removed. Upon receiving information about module removal, the microprocessor 333 of the ATS module can forcibly disconnect the power switch circuits 336A or 336B to prevent arcing damage to the backplane 350. Additionally, upon receiving information about module removal, the microprocessor 333 of the ATS module can communicate this information to the microprocessor 313 of the electronic bypass module.

[0057] Figure 4 The flowchart illustrates a representative algorithm 400 with a series of steps that the microprocessor 313 of the electronic bypass module can use to bypass the ATS module 330 so that it can be removed and replaced.

[0058] In step 401, the selector switch 251 on the front panel 250 of the electronic bypass module 282 moves from the automatic position to the bypass I1 position, which initiates the bypass operation.

[0059] In step 402, bypass operation is prevented unless and until the voltage at input port 1 is sensed by the input port voltage sensor 318A corresponding to input port 1 and is within an acceptable range. In some implementations, the input port voltage sensor 318A continues to monitor the voltage at input port 1 until the voltage at input port 1 is present and within an acceptable range. If the operator mistakenly moves the selector switch 251 to the bypass I1 position when no power is available at input port 1, step 402 prevents the output port from losing power.

[0060] In step 403, the microprocessor 313 of the electronic bypass module communicates with the microprocessor 333 of the ATS module using the communication interface 314. The microprocessor 333 of the ATS module is instructed to exit automatic operation and power the output port via the power switch circuit 336A connected to input port 1. This step ensures that input port 1 and input port 2 are not simultaneously connected to the output port during the remaining steps of the bypass operation, as this could cause a short circuit.

[0061] In step 404, the power switch circuit 316A connected to input port 1 via the electronic bypass module supplies power to the output port from input port 1. The output port is now powered by both the ATS module and the bypass module from input port 1.

[0062] In step 405, the microprocessor 313 of the electronic bypass module communicates with the microprocessor 333 of the ATS module using the communication interface 314. The microprocessor 333 of the ATS module is instructed to shut down the power switch circuit 336A connected to input port 1, causing the electronic bypass module 310 to supply power to the output port from input port 1. At this time, the ATS module 330 no longer supplies power to the output port and can be removed and replaced.

[0063] Figure 5 The flowchart illustrates a representative algorithm 500 with a series of steps that the microprocessor 313 of the electronic bypass module can use to electrically disconnect the electronic bypass module 310 from the input port after the ATS module 330 has been replaced.

[0064] In step 501, the selector switch 251 is moved from the bypass I1 position to the automatic position.

[0065] In step 502, the microprocessor 313 of the electronic bypass module communicates with the microprocessor 333 of the ATS module using the communication interface 314. The ATS module 330 is instructed to supply power to the output port via the power switch circuit 336A connected to input port 1, such that the output port is powered by both the ATS module 330 and the electronic bypass module 310 from input port 1.

[0066] In step 503, the power switch circuit 316A of the electronic bypass module connected to input port 1 is turned off, so that the output port is powered only by the ATS module 330.

[0067] In step 504, the microprocessor 313 of the electronic bypass module communicates with the microprocessor 333 of the ATS module using the communication interface 314. This instructs the ATS module 330 to resume automatic operation, allowing the ATS module 330 to select which input port supplies power to the output port, as determined by the power quality of input port 1 and input port 2.

[0068] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating a representative process for supplying power from one of the power input ports to the power output port, according to some implementations. In step 602, an automatic transfer switch module and a bypass module electrically in communication with the automatic transfer switch module are provided. Each module is removably mounted in a common enclosure.

[0069] In step 604, multiple input ports and one or more output ports are provided through a common chassis. Each of the multiple input ports can be connected to one of a multiple power supplies. The one or more output ports can be connected to an electrical load.

[0070] In step 606, one of the multiple input ports is connected to at least one of the multiple power sources to supply uninterrupted power to one or more output ports.

[0071] In step 608, when the automatic transfer switch module is disconnected, the bypass module continues to supply uninterrupted power to one or more output ports. Disconnecting the automatic transfer switch module is only permitted if it is determined that power is being supplied through the bypass module. Alternatively, disconnecting the bypass module is only permitted if it is determined that power is being supplied through the automatic transfer switch module. When the bypass module is disconnected, the automatic transfer switch module supplies uninterrupted power to one or more output ports.

[0072] Conclusion The terms "automatic transfer switch" and "ATS" are used interchangeably.

[0073] The terms “mean replacement time” and “MTTR” are used interchangeably.

[0074] The terms “example,” “implementation,” and “mode of implementation” are used interchangeably. For example, a reference to “an example” or “example” in this disclosure may be, but is not necessarily, a reference to the same mode of implementation; and such a reference implies at least one mode of implementation. The phrase “in an example” does not necessarily refer to the same example, and individual or alternative examples are not mutually exclusive with other examples. A feature, structure, or characteristic described in conjunction with an example may be included in another example of this disclosure. Furthermore, various features that can be demonstrated by some examples but not by others are described. Similarly, various requirements that can be requirements of some examples but not of others are described.

[0075] The terminology used herein should be understood in its broadest and most reasonable manner, even when used in conjunction with specific examples of the invention. The terms used in this disclosure generally have their common meaning in the relevant art, depending on the context of this disclosure and the specific context in which each term is used. The listing of alternative language or synonyms does not preclude the use of other synonyms. No particular emphasis should be placed on whether a term is elaborated or discussed in detail herein. The use of highlighting has no effect on the scope and meaning of the terms. Furthermore, it will be understood that the same thing can be expressed in more than one way.

[0076] Unless the context explicitly requires otherwise, throughout the specification and claims, the words “comprising,” “including,” and “including” should be interpreted in an inclusive sense, rather than an exclusive or exhaustive sense—that is, meaning “including but not limited to.” As used herein, the terms “connection,” “coupled,” and any variations thereof mean any connection or coupling between two or more elements, whether direct or indirect; the coupling or connection between elements can be physical, logical, or a combination thereof. Additionally, “this article,” “above,” “below,” and words with similar meanings may refer to the entire application, rather than any particular part of it. Where the context permits, singular or plural terms used in the above specific embodiments may also include plural or singular, respectively. Regarding a list of two or more items, the word “or” covers all of the following interpretations: any item in the list, all items in the list, and any combination of items in the list. The term “module” broadly refers to software components, firmware components, and / or hardware components.

[0077] While specific examples of the present technology have been described above for illustrative purposes, various equivalent modifications can be made within the scope of the invention, as those skilled in the art will recognize. For example, although processes or blocks are presented in a given order, alternative implementations may execute routines with steps in a different order or employ systems with blocks in a different order, and some processes or blocks may be deleted, moved, added, subdivided, combined, and / or modified to provide alternatives or sub-combinations. Each of these processes or blocks can be implemented in a variety of different ways. Furthermore, while processes or blocks are sometimes shown as being executed serially, these processes or blocks may alternatively be executed or implemented in parallel, or may be executed at different times. Moreover, any specific figures mentioned herein are merely examples, allowing alternative implementations to take on different values ​​or ranges.

[0078] The details of the disclosed implementations may vary considerably in specific implementations, but they still fall within the scope of the disclosed teachings. As mentioned above, specific terms used in describing features or aspects of the invention should not be construed as implying that such terms are redefined herein as limited to any particular characteristic, feature, or aspect of the invention associated with that term. Generally, the terms used in the following claims should not be construed as limiting the invention to the specific examples disclosed herein, unless such terms are expressly defined in the foregoing detailed description. Therefore, the actual scope of the invention covers not only the disclosed examples but also all equivalent ways in which the invention is practiced or implemented according to the claims. Some alternative implementations may include more or fewer elements than the implementations described above.

[0079] The entire contents of any patents, applications, and other references mentioned above, as well as any documents that may be listed in the accompanying application, are incorporated herein by reference, except for any disclaimers or negative statements regarding the subject matter, and in the event of any inconsistency between the incorporated material and the express disclosure herein, the language of this disclosure shall prevail. Various aspects of the invention may be modified to incorporate the systems, functions, and concepts of the foregoing references, thereby providing further implementations of the invention.

[0080] To reduce the number of claims, certain implementations are presented below in specific claim forms, but the applicant has considered other forms of various aspects of the invention. For example, aspects of the claims may be expressed as “means plus function” or in other forms, such as embodied in a computer-readable medium. Claims intended to be interpreted as “means plus function” will use the phrase “means for…”. However, the use of the term “for” in any other context is not intended to provoke a similar interpretation. The applicant reserves the right to pursue such appended claim forms in this application or a continuation application.

Claims

1. A switching device, comprising: A chassis that can be installed in an electronic equipment rack; An automatic transfer switch module, which is removably disposed in the chassis; A bypass module, which is removably disposed in the chassis; A pair of input ports passing through the chassis, each of the input ports being able to be connected to a first power supply and a second power supply, respectively; At least one output port, which passes through the chassis and is capable of being connected to an electrical load; as well as A switching circuit interconnects the automatic transfer switch module and the bypass module, and the switching circuit is operable to ensure that the power supply to the at least one output port from the first power source or the second power source is unaffected when either the automatic transfer switch module or the bypass module is removed from the chassis.

2. The switching device as described in claim 1, wherein, The switching circuit includes a bypass having multiple switch positions, and wherein, when the automatic transfer switch module is removed, the switching circuit is operable to ensure that power is supplied to the at least one output port from either the first power source or the second power source, regardless of the switch position.

3. The switching device as described in claim 1, wherein, The switching circuit includes an automatic transfer switch microprocessor and a bypass microprocessor that is in electrical communication with the transfer switch microprocessor.

4. The switching device as described in claim 3, wherein, The automatic transfer switch microprocessor and the bypass microprocessor are operable to cooperate with each other, thereby ensuring that power is supplied to the at least one output port from either the first power source or the second power source when the automatic transfer switch module is removed.

5. The switching device as described in claim 3, wherein, The bypass microprocessor can operate to monitor the status of the automatic transfer switch module.

6. The switching device as described in claim 3, wherein, The bypass microprocessor is operable to monitor the following: the availability of input power; the supply of output power to the at least one output port, if any; and the status of the automatic transfer switch module.

7. The switching device as described in claim 3, wherein, The bypass microprocessor is operable to take over and disconnect the automatic transfer switch module, thereby preventing the automatic transfer switch module from determining the source of the power supply.

8. The switching device as described in claim 1, wherein, The bypass module is an electronic bypass module.

9. The switching device as described in claim 8, wherein, The electronic bypass module includes a low-voltage, low-power three-position switch, and the three-position switch includes: The first position is used to supply power from the first power source through the electronic bypass module; A second position is used to supply power from the second power source via the electronic bypass module; and The third position enables the automatic transfer switch module to determine the associated power source from which the power supply originates.

10. The switching device as claimed in claim 8, wherein, The electronic bypass module includes one or more power relays from which power is supplied, and the power relays are activated by a low-power signal.

11. The switching device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The chassis is designed to fit a 1U rack space.

12. The switching device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The chassis is a dual-compartment chassis, having a first compartment and a second compartment. The automatic transfer switch module is removably disposed in the first compartment, and the bypass module is removably disposed in the second compartment.

13. A switching device, comprising: A pair of input ports, each of which can be connected to a first power supply and a second power supply respectively; One or more output ports, the one or more output ports being used to supply power from a selected one of the first power source and the second power source to one or more connected electrical devices if one or more electrical devices are connected; An automatic transfer switch module, which can be connected to the first power supply, the second power supply and the one or more output ports; A bypass module, which can be connected to the first power supply, the second power supply, and the one or more output ports; as well as A switching circuit interconnects the automatic transfer switch module and the bypass module, and the switching circuit is operable to ensure that disconnection of either the transfer switch module or the bypass module from the first power source or the second power source does not affect the supply of power from the one or more output ports to the one or more connected electrical devices.

14. A rack-mounted switching device, comprising: Dual-compartment chassis, the dual-compartment chassis comprising: A first compartment is configured to removably accommodate an automatic transfer switch module; A second compartment, configured to removably accommodate a bypass module; and A field-replaceable automatic transfer switch module is provided, which is removably installed in the first compartment.

15. The rack-mounted switching device of claim 14, further comprising a bypass module removably disposed in the second compartment.

16. The rack-mounted switching device as described in claim 15, wherein, The bypass module is an electronic bypass module.

17. The rack-mounted switching device as described in claim 14, wherein, The dimensions of the dual-compartment chassis are designed to fit a 1U rack space.

18. A method for supplying power using a common enclosure that can be installed in an electronic equipment rack, the method comprising: An automatic transfer switch module is provided that can be removably installed in the common chassis; A bypass module is provided that is electrically in communication with the automatic transfer switch module, wherein the bypass module is removably installed in the common enclosure; Multiple input ports are provided through the common chassis, each of which can be connected to one of a plurality of power supplies; Provide one or more output ports that pass through the common enclosure and can be connected to electrical loads; Connect one of the plurality of input ports to at least one of the plurality of power sources to supply uninterrupted power to the one or more output ports; and Uninterrupted power supply continues even when either the transfer switch module or the bypass module is disconnected from at least one of the plurality of power sources.

19. The power supply method as described in claim 18, wherein, Continuing to supply uninterrupted power when the automatic transfer switch module is disconnected from at least one of the plurality of power sources further includes: Determine whether power is being supplied from at least one power source via the bypass module or the automatic transfer switch module, and The transfer switch module may only be disconnected when it is determined that power is being supplied through the bypass module.

20. The power supply method of claim 19, further comprising placing the bypass module in a first state to disconnect the automatic transfer switch module and supply power from one of the plurality of power sources through the bypass module.

21. The power supply method of claim 20, further comprising placing the bypass module in a second state so that the automatic transfer switch module can determine the source of the power supply.

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