Dual Power Controller Latch Circuit for Hot-Swappable Redundancy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power control systems in information processing systems, such as cloud computing, face challenges in maintaining continuous operation and facilitating online replacement of power controllers without disrupting the entire system, especially in critical components like storage systems.
Innovation Solution
A power control system with a first and second power controller, where the second power controller holds and transmits a control signal identical to the first, allowing for continuous operation even if the first power controller is replaced, utilizing a latch circuit to ensure seamless transition and redundancy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single power controller is used to control power supply, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability deteriorates because the system cannot maintain continuous operation during controller replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a second power controller that copies the control signal from the first power controller. This duplicate controller serves as a standby unit that can take over immediately when the first controller is replaced, ensuring continuous operation without system downtime.
Solution Approach 2:
The second power controller is prepared in advance with the same control signal before any replacement is needed. The latch circuit holds the control signal ready, so when the first controller fails, the second controller can immediately assume control without waiting for signal generation or system reconfiguration.
2Reliability
If redundant power controllers are added to ensure continuous operation, then the reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the first and second power controllers into a unified power control system where both controllers work together. The latch circuit merges the control signals from both controllers, allowing them to function as an integrated redundant pair rather than separate independent systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The second power controller serves multiple functions: it acts as a standby unit for immediate takeover, provides signal holding capability through the latch circuit, and enables hot-swappable replacement of the first controller. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional dedicated components.
3Ease of repair
If the first power controller is replaced while the system is running, then the ease of repair is improved, but the system stability deteriorates due to potential control signal disruption
Solution Approach 1:
The latch circuit serves as an intermediary between the first and second power controllers. It captures and holds the control signal from the first controller and transfers it to the second controller, ensuring continuous signal delivery to the power supply even during the replacement transition.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent ensures the control signal continues uninterrupted during controller replacement. The latch circuit maintains the signal state, and the second controller immediately assumes control, preventing any gap in the control signal to the power supply and maintaining stable power delivery throughout the replacement process.
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment, a power control system includes a power controlled unit, a first power controller configured to generate a first control signal that controls the power of the power controlled unit, and a second power controller including a signal holding unit configured to hold the first control signal and to transmit a second control signal including information identical to the information of the first control signal to the power controlled unit, the second power controller being different from the first power controller as hardware.