Backup Power Distribution Using Priority-Based Sub-System Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical power distribution systems face challenges in ensuring continuous operation of critical sub-systems during primary power source outages or surges, as they lack efficient prioritization and power management strategies to optimize backup power usage.
Innovation Solution
A power management system that receives sensor data and parameter sets for sub-systems to control the distribution of electrical power from primary and secondary sources, prioritizing critical sub-systems and adjusting power consumption based on heat dissipation and temperature requirements, thereby extending runtime during backup power usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If backup electrical power is distributed to all sub-systems simultaneously, then all sub-systems can operate during outage, but the backup power source depletes quickly and cannot sustain operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the sub-systems into different priority groups (critical, important, non-critical) and distributes backup power selectively rather than uniformly to all sub-systems. This segmentation allows the limited backup power to sustain critical sub-systems for extended periods while non-critical sub-systems are powered down or operated at reduced capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by providing different power distribution characteristics to different sub-systems based on their specific requirements and priorities. Critical sub-systems receive full power allocation, while non-critical sub-systems receive reduced or no power allocation, optimizing the overall runtime of the backup power source.
2Duration of action of moving object
If power management system controls and reduces electrical power consumption by sub-systems, then runtime under backup power is increased, but some sub-systems may not receive sufficient power for optimal operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic power management where the power allocation to each sub-system is not fixed but can be adjusted in real-time based on current operational needs, battery charge levels, and priority rankings. The system can dynamically shift power allocation between sub-systems and adjust operational parameters to maintain critical functions while extending overall runtime.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes operational parameters of sub-systems (such as reducing processing speed, lowering temperature thresholds, or putting non-critical sub-systems into sleep mode) to reduce power consumption while maintaining essential functions. This allows the system to extend runtime without completely sacrificing operational reliability of critical functions.
Data Source
AI summary
In an example method, a power management system receives sensor data regarding an operation of a primary power source, a secondary power source, an environmental regulation system, and a plurality of electrically-powered sub-systems. Further, the system receives a plurality of parameter sets for the sub-systems, each including a first parameter indicting a priority of a respective sub-system relative to the other sub-systems, a second parameter indicating an amount of heat dissipated by the respective sub-system during operation, and a third parameter indicating a temperature requirement associated with the respective sub-system. The system controls, based on the sensor data and the parameter sets, a delivery of electrical power from the primary and secondary power sources to the environmental regulation system and the sub-systems. Further, the system controls, based on the sensor data and the parameter sets, a consumption of electrical power by the environmental regulation system and the sub-systems.