Datacenter Power Management with AC and DC Sources

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Solution Overview

Problem

Datacenters face dynamic power requirements that are challenging to manage efficiently, with fluctuations based on application activity, maintenance, and equipment failures, necessitating reliable and adaptable power distribution systems that can handle both AC and DC power sources.

Innovation Solution

Implementing a software-defined power infrastructure that evaluates and connects AC and DC power sources dynamically, using uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) and power distribution units (PDUs) to optimize power distribution across datacenter racks, rows, and the entire system, incorporating predictive algorithms and machine learning for real-time adaptation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If traditional power distribution systems are used in datacenters, then infrastructure simplicity is maintained, but the system cannot dynamically adapt to fluctuating power requirements and cannot efficiently manage both AC and DC power sources

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedynamic power source adaptationVSAvoidpower distribution infrastructure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal power distribution architecture where PDUs can accept both AC and DC power inputs and dynamically switch between them. The system evaluates multiple power sources (utility AC, on-site DC generators, battery storage) and routes power to various loads based on real-time conditions, making the infrastructure multi-functional and adaptable to different power scenarios

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system employs dynamic power source selection and switching capabilities. The PDU continuously monitors power source availability, quality, and cost, then dynamically adjusts which power source serves which load. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to respond to fluctuating power requirements and changing external conditions without manual intervention

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If multiple power sources are integrated into the datacenter, then reliability and redundancy are improved, but the complexity of evaluating and managing power sources increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower supply reliabilityVSAvoidpower source evaluation and management

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements comprehensive feedback mechanisms where the PDU continuously monitors the status, quality, and performance of all connected power sources. This feedback information is used to automatically adjust power routing, switch between sources when needed, and provide real-time visibility to operators. The system learns from power source performance and optimizes its management strategies based on observed conditions

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The power distribution system performs self-evaluation and self-management of multiple power sources. The PDU automatically evaluates the suitability of each power source for different loads, performs switching operations without human intervention, and manages power flow optimization. This self-service capability reduces the operational burden while maintaining high reliability through automated decision-making

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Loss of energy

If dynamic power source evaluation and switching is implemented, then energy efficiency and cost optimization are improved, but the control system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveenergy efficiencyVSAvoidcontrol system

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of energyVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual power management processes with automated electronic control systems. The PDU uses electronic sensors, processors, and control algorithms to evaluate power sources, determine optimal routing, and execute switching operations. This substitution of mechanical/manual operations with electronic automation improves energy efficiency through precise control while managing complexity through software-based solutions

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS11455021B2Datacenter power management using AC and DC power sources

Publication Date: 2022.09.27 CATO INC

AI summary

In disclosed techniques, datacenter power management uses AC and DC power sources. An AC power distribution topology within a datacenter provides one or more AC power sources to computing devices. A DC power distribution topology within the datacenter provides one or more DC power sources to computing devices. An uninterruptible power supply (UPS) is provisioned to a rack of computing devices, wherein the UPS is capable of receiving the one or more AC power sources using the AC power distribution topology and the one or more DC power sources using the DC power distribution topology. The one or more DC power sources are evaluated for energizing the DC power distribution topology. The one or more DC power sources are connected to the UPS which is provisioned to the rack of computing devices, based on the evaluating and a datacenter power requirement.