DC Power Priority Chain for Seamless Multi-Source Switching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing DC power switching technologies are inefficient in seamlessly integrating and prioritizing multiple DC power sources, often relying on complex external controls or micro-controllers, and struggle with scalable solutions for power multiplexing beyond two sources without significant increases in control complexity.

Innovation Solution

A DC power priority chain is formed by linking DC switches in series, with a power priority chain that includes a linking section, power comparison and fault detection section, and power transfer control section, using Boolean AND gates to enable seamless power transition among multiple DC sources without external control, utilizing NMOS-FET, PMOS-FET, or other power transfer devices for efficient power management.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple DC power sources are multiplexed using traditional methods (micro-controller or external control), then power switching capability is achieved, but control complexity increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower switching capabilityVSAvoidcontrol complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The DC power switch automatically detects power source availability and performs switching operations without requiring external micro-controller intervention. The device monitors its own input conditions and self-regulates the power routing based on detected voltage levels and power source states, eliminating the need for complex external control systems

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces electronic control systems (micro-controllers, external control circuits) with a passive voltage-based detection mechanism. The switch uses inherent voltage level comparisons and automatic threshold-based triggering to control power routing, substituting complex electronic control with simpler voltage-level sensing and automatic response

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Adaptability or versatility

If DC switches are ORed together to multiplex multiple power sources, then power integration is achieved, but reverse current flow becomes a problem

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower integrationVSAvoidreverse current

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces intelligent control logic as an intermediary between multiple DC power sources and the output. This control mechanism actively monitors voltage levels and power source states, enabling selective connection of power sources while preventing reverse current flow through controlled switching operations rather than passive ORing

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Ease of manufacture

If the highest voltage source dominates the output in ORed DC power configuration, then simple power connection is achieved, but power optimization is lost

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower connection simplicityVSAvoidpower optimization

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms that continuously monitor the state of connected DC power sources and adjust switching operations accordingly. The system detects voltage levels, power availability, and load conditions, then uses this information to intelligently select and switch between power sources to optimize energy usage rather than simply following voltage hierarchy

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a dynamic power switching system that adapts to changing power source conditions in real-time. Rather than a static voltage-based selection, the system continuously evaluates power source availability and characteristics, dynamically adjusting which power source is active to achieve optimal energy utilization based on current operational conditions

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

4Adaptability or versatility

If micro-controller is used to control multiple DC switches, then power selection capability is achieved, but programming complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower selection capabilityVSAvoidprogramming complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The DC power switch incorporates built-in intelligence that automatically detects power source conditions and performs selection operations without external programming. The device monitors its own input voltages and power source states, then self-determines the appropriate switching action, eliminating the need for micro-controller programming entirely

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS11605970B2Persistent DC power and control switch

Publication Date: 2023.03.14 ENTRANTECH INC

AI summary

A DC switch with embedded de-multiplexing function links a plurality of DC switches in a priority chain and enables concurrent power switching between DC switches. The priority chain automatically selects a most cost-effective power for output to optimize energy utilization efficiency and with a just-in-time enable to activate standby-power to minimize energy waste in persistent DC power.