Bi-directional Power Control Device for Computer System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing computer systems with a power supply configuration that only allows one-way current flow between the main and backup power sources, preventing access to data stored on the I/O board when the main power fails, and limiting current due to insufficient pin connections.
Innovation Solution
A control device with multiple switches and a judging circuit that detects power status and coupling conditions to manage power flow, enabling bi-directional current paths between the main and backup power sources, ensuring continuous access to data even when the main power fails.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the connecting ends provide only a one-way current path, then the structure is simple, but the backup power cannot supply power to the I/O board when main power fails
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic current path switching using control switches that change the circuit configuration based on power status. The judging circuit detects whether main power is available and dynamically reconfigures the current paths through switches, enabling the system to transition between one-way and bi-directional power flow modes, thus resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and reliability.
2Power
If pins are assigned for single-direction current flow, then the connection structure is simple, but the amount of current is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the connecting pins multi-functional by enabling them to carry current in both directions through the bi-directional switching mechanism. The same physical pins can transmit power from main power to computer host, or from backup power to I/O board, effectively doubling their utility without requiring additional pins, thus increasing current capacity while maintaining simple pin configuration.
3Reliability
If backup power is isolated from I/O board, then the power management is simple, but data cannot be accessed when main power fails
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a control device as an intermediary between the power sources and loads. This control device includes a judging circuit that monitors power status and control switches that manage power distribution. The intermediary enables automatic switching between main power and backup power modes, ensuring continuous data access while maintaining simple power supply configuration through intelligent control.
4Reliability
If main power always supplies I/O board, then the power distribution is simple, but the system cannot operate when main power fails
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the power distribution system by introducing controllable switches that can alter the electrical connection state. The judging circuit monitors power availability parameters and triggers parameter changes in the circuit configuration, enabling the system to switch between different power distribution modes (main power only, backup power only, or both) to maintain system availability while keeping the power distribution structure simple through automated parameter adjustment.
Data Source
AI summary
A computer system includes a main power, a backup power, an input/output (I/O) board, a main board, a computer host, and controls signal transmission and signal detection with a control device. The control device controls the main power and the backup power according to a power status. When one of the main power or the backup power fails, the control device controls the other functioning power to supply power to the I/O board and the main board and prevents the computer system from shutting down.