Backup Power Switching Circuit for Interruption-Free Load Supply

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Solution Overview

Problem

In redundant power supply systems, power interruptions occur instantaneously to the second load when a fault occurs in the first system, and the second power supply is not effectively prevented from discharging during normal conditions.

Innovation Solution

A power supply device with a first system connected to a first load, a second system connected to a second load, an inter-system switch, and a controller that manages power distribution and includes a discharge regulation unit to prevent instantaneous interruptions and unnecessary discharge of the second power supply.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of energy

If the second power supply is disconnected from the second system in normal states to prevent discharge, then the second power supply is protected from unnecessary discharge, but power supply to the second load is instantaneously interrupted when a fault occurs in the first system

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveunnecessary discharge of second power supplyVSAvoidcontinuous power supply to second load
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

A diode is introduced as an intermediary component between the second power supply and the second system. This diode allows current to flow only in one direction, enabling the second power supply to automatically provide power when the first system fails without causing reverse current flow during normal operation. This resolves the contradiction by preventing unnecessary discharge while ensuring reliable backup power supply.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary action by pre-charging the second power supply during normal operation and pre-positioning the inter-system switch and diode in appropriate states. When a fault occurs, the backup power supply is already charged and the circuit configuration is ready to immediately switch to the second power supply, eliminating power interruption to the second load.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Reliability

If the inter-system switch is turned off to enable backup control from the second power supply, then backup control is activated, but power supply to the second load is instantaneously interrupted until the second power supply is connected

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebackup control activationVSAvoidpower supply interruption time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The diode serves as an intermediary that eliminates the time delay associated with switching. While the inter-system switch turns off, the diode immediately begins conducting current from the second power supply to the second load, providing continuous power supply without interruption. This resolves the time loss issue while maintaining reliable backup control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The system ensures continuity of useful action by maintaining power flow to the second load through the diode during the transition period. The diode's inherent property of allowing forward current flow ensures that power supply continues uninterrupted from the second power supply as soon as it becomes active, eliminating gaps in power delivery to critical loads.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Data Source

PatentUS12040639B2Power supply device and control method
Publication Date: 2024.07.16 DENSO TEN LTD
  • US12040639B2 patent drawing
  • US12040639B2 patent drawing
  • US12040639B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A power supply device includes: a first system connected to a first load; a second system connected to a second load; an inter-system switch configured to connect and disconnect the first system and the second system to and from each other; a controller configured to normally supply power of a first power supply to the first system and the second system and, in response to a fault of the first system being detected, turn off the inter-system switch to supply power of a second power supply to the second system; and a backup circuit which includes a discharge regulation unit configured to regulate discharging of the second power supply.