Configurable UPS Rack with Busbar Backplane for Scalable Power
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional data center UPS systems face challenges in scalability and cost efficiency due to the difficulty in selecting the right capacity, leading to high overhead costs and significant power losses when operated below full capacity, and the need for frequent replacements as demand increases.
Innovation Solution
A configurable rack system for UPS components featuring a frame assembly with a busbar backplane that allows for modular and scalable integration of electronic modules, including power modules and batteries, with spring-loaded connectors and redundant connections for flexible power distribution and easy maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a UPS is selected for full capacity to meet peak power requirements, then the power supply capacity is sufficient, but the overhead costs and power losses become undesirably high when operated below full capacity
Solution Approach 1:
The UPS system is divided into multiple independent rack modules, each capable of operating autonomously. This allows the facility to deploy only the number of racks needed to meet current power requirements, avoiding the energy losses associated with operating a single large UPS at partial capacity. Each rack operates at or near full capacity, optimizing efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows dynamic scaling by adding or removing rack modules based on changing power demands. As the facility grows or shrinks, the UPS capacity can be adjusted by modifying the number of active racks, ensuring that power losses are minimized at all times by matching supply capacity to actual demand.
2Power
If a UPS is selected for full capacity, then the power supply meets peak demand, but the overhead costs become undesirably high when the facility operates below full capacity
Solution Approach 1:
The UPS system is divided into multiple independent rack modules, each capable of operating autonomously. This allows the facility to deploy only the number of racks needed to meet current power requirements, avoiding the overhead costs associated with purchasing and maintaining a large UPS system that sits partially idle. Each rack operates at or near full capacity, optimizing efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
Each rack module is designed as a universal, self-contained unit that can function independently or in combination with other racks. This modularity allows the facility to scale capacity up or down by simply adding or removing racks, avoiding the need to invest in excess capacity and thereby reducing overhead costs.
3Loss of energy
If a UPS is selected for less than full capacity, then the overhead costs and power losses are reduced, but the UPS may have to be replaced when usage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The UPS system is divided into multiple independent rack modules that can be individually added or removed. This allows the facility to start with a small number of racks, minimizing initial power losses and costs, while maintaining the ability to scale up by simply adding more racks as power demand increases, eliminating the need for complete system replacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows dynamic scaling by adding or removing rack modules based on changing power demands. As the facility grows or shrinks, the UPS capacity can be adjusted by modifying the number of active racks, ensuring that power losses are minimized at all times by matching supply capacity to actual demand.
4Reliability
If a highly integrated rack-based frame is used, then a robust and complete UPS system is provided, but the customer must pay a premium price even if requirements are below maximum capacity
Solution Approach 1:
The UPS system is divided into multiple independent rack modules, each providing complete and robust UPS functionality. This allows customers to purchase only the number of racks needed for their specific requirements, rather than paying a premium for a large integrated system with unused capacity. Each rack is a fully functional, reliable unit that can operate independently.
Solution Approach 2:
Each rack module is designed as a universal, self-contained unit that can function independently or in combination with other racks. This modularity allows customers to scale capacity precisely to their needs, paying only for the racks they require, while maintaining the reliability and completeness of a full UPS system in each rack.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution reduces initial system costs, enhances scalability, and minimizes operational expenses by allowing the UPS rack to be configured to meet specific power requirements, achieving higher power density and flexibility while maintaining continuous power supply to critical loads.
Implementation Method 1
the connector includes a pair of spring-loaded arms configured to resiliently engage the busbar
Data Source
AI summary
A configurable rack for supporting components of an uninterruptible power supply includes a frame assembly having a front and a rear. At least one of the front and the rear is configured to receive electronic modules in stacked relation along a height of the frame assembly. The configurable rack further includes a busbar backplane disposed between the front and the rear. The busbar backplane extends vertically within the frame assembly and is configured to be electrically coupled to the at least one electronic module received within the front and/or the rear of the frame assembly.