Hot Plugging Power Unit via Rail Micro-Switch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional power electronic systems lack the ability to freely plug and replace power electronic devices without shutting down the entire system, limiting maintenance and efficiency due to fixed connections of power and signal lines.
Innovation Solution
A power electronic device with a mounting cubicle and rail system, featuring a micro-switch that allows the power unit to be easily pushed in or pulled out, ensuring electrical connections and disconnections are managed to enable hot plugging, with the power unit turning on or off as needed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If power lines and signal lines are fixedly connected to the power unit via screws and terminals, then reliable electrical connection is achieved, but the power unit cannot be freely plugged or removed from the cabinet
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connection system is segmented into modular components: the power unit with its terminals, the cabinet with corresponding terminals, and removable connection elements. This allows the power unit to be divided into separable connection points that can be engaged or disengaged independently, enabling plugging freedom while maintaining connection reliability when connected.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system transitions from a static fixed connection to a dynamic removable connection. The power unit is designed with movable capability along the cabinet, allowing it to be plugged in or removed as needed. The electrical terminals are designed to maintain reliable contact during operation while allowing easy disconnection when needed.
2Reliability
If the entire power electronic system is shut down for maintenance or replacement of a failed power electronic device, then safe maintenance is achieved, but system efficiency is seriously affected
Solution Approach 1:
The power electronic system is segmented into independent power units that can be individually maintained or replaced. Each power unit is a separate module with its own electrical connections, allowing one unit to be serviced while other units continue to operate, thus maintaining system efficiency during maintenance activities.
Solution Approach 2:
The system design enables continuous operation of the power electronic system during maintenance of individual power units. By allowing hot plugging and hot replacement of power units, the useful action of the system continues uninterrupted, with only the specific failed or maintenance-needed unit being taken offline.
3Stability of the object's composition
If power units are designed with fixed electrical connections, then stable power transmission is achieved, but hot plugging capability cannot be realized
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connection system is designed to be dynamic rather than static. The power units can move along the cabinet and be connected or disconnected from electrical terminals as needed. The connection terminals are designed to provide stable electrical contact when engaged, while allowing easy disengagement for hot plugging operations.
Solution Approach 2:
Electrical terminals and connection elements serve as intermediaries between the power units and the cabinet power distribution system. These intermediaries provide stable electrical connection when engaged, while allowing the power units to be easily connected or disconnected without affecting the overall system stability.
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosed is a power electronic device comprising a power unit and a mounting cubicle matching with the power unit. The mounting cubicle is provided with a rail and an entrance for pushing into and pulling out of the power unit. A side of the mounting cubicle is provided with an power source and control output terminal and a signal output terminal. A side of the power unit is provided with a power source and control input terminal and a signal input terminal. The power unit is provided with a micro-switch. When the power unit moves along the rail, after the power source and control input terminal contacts with the power source and control output terminal. The signal input terminal becomes electrically connected with the signal output terminal, and the micro-switch is turned on so as to start the power unit.