DC Base Switching Circuit for Inrush Current Diversion

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Solution Overview

Problem

In outdoor DC power supply systems where multiple bases with power supply converters are connected in a bidirectional n-to-n configuration, the addition of a new base to a trunk line can cause an inrush current, leading to the power supply converter stopping due to high impedance and voltage drops.

Innovation Solution

An inrush current prevention apparatus is introduced, comprising a switching unit and a current reduction unit. The switching unit is initially connected when the base is supplying power, and when a predetermined current is detected, it is disconnected, allowing the current to flow through the current reduction unit, thereby preventing inrush currents.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a base is newly added to a trunk line in a power supply state, then the system expandability is improved, but an inrush current flows and the power supply converter stops

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem expandabilityVSAvoidpower supply stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The switching unit is configured to be in a disconnected state before a new base is connected to the trunk line. This preliminary action prevents the inrush current from flowing when the new base is connected, while still allowing the system to be expanded. The switching unit is subsequently switched to a connected state after the new base is properly integrated, restoring normal power supply functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The switching unit acts as an intermediary between the trunk line and the new base. By controlling the connection state of the switching unit, the system can selectively prevent inrush current while maintaining expandability. The switching unit mediates the power flow, allowing safe integration of new bases without compromising system reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Length of stationary object

If the impedance becomes very large in long-distance power supply, then the power supply distance is extended, but the inrush current causes voltage drops and converter stopping

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower supply distanceVSAvoidvoltage stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of stationary objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

Before a new base is connected to the long-distance power supply line, the switching unit is set to a disconnected state. This preliminary disconnection prevents the inrush current from causing voltage drops that would otherwise occur due to the high impedance of the long power supply line. After safe connection, the switching unit is enabled to restore power flow.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The switching unit provides preliminary anti-action by being in a disconnected state before new base connection. This preemptive measure counteracts the potential harmful effect of inrush current flowing through the high-impedance long-distance line, preventing voltage drops and converter stopping before they can occur.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #9Preliminary anti-action

Data Source

PatentUS20250192539A1Inrush current prevention apparatus, control apparatus, and inrush current prevention method
Publication Date: 2025.06.12 NT T INC
  • US20250192539A1 patent drawing
  • US20250192539A1 patent drawing
  • US20250192539A1 patent drawing

AI summary

An inrush current prevention apparatus used in a specific base in a DC power supply system, the DC power supply system including multiple bases each having a power supply device and being connected by a power supply line, the inrush current prevention apparatus comprising: a switching unit; a current reduction unit connected in parallel with the switching unit; a processor; and a memory storing instructions that cause the processor to execute a process including bringing the switching unit into a connected state when the specific base is supplying power, wherein when a predetermined current occurs between a power supply device in the specific base and a power supply device in another base, by bringing the switching unit into a disconnected state, a current between the power supply device in the specific base and the power supply device in the other base is caused to flow to the current reduction unit.