Hot-Swappable Power Supply Module Pre-Charging Control

The patent implements preliminary action by activating a pre-charging circuit before the swapping power module is fully connected to the parallel configuration. The control unit detects when a power module is being swapped in and automatically engages the pre-charging circuit to gradually charge the output capacitor from zero voltage to a level close to the working voltage. This controlled pre-charging process limits the dv/dt rate of change and prevents inrush current surges that would otherwise occur during hot-swapping, thereby protecting the power module from damage while maintaining ease of hot-swappable operation

The patent introduces an intermediary pre-charging circuit between the power source and the output capacitor of the swapping power module. This intermediary circuit includes a pre-charging switch and resistance elements that control the charging current flow. The pre-charging circuit acts as a buffer that mediates the connection between the power source and the capacitor, allowing gradual voltage buildup rather than direct connection. This intermediary mechanism enables safe hot-swapping by preventing direct inrush current while maintaining the ability to easily swap modules

The patent extracts and removes the isolation transformer from the power supply system by replacing it with an electronic control-based solution. Instead of using a physical isolation transformer to prevent returning current paths and inrush currents, the patent employs a control unit that monitors voltage and phase conditions and activates pre-charging circuits and switching mechanisms to achieve the same protective function. This extraction of the isolation transformer eliminates the bulky magnetic components and associated power losses while maintaining system reliability through intelligent electronic control

The patent applies mechanics substitution by replacing the mechanical/isolation transformer-based solution with an electronic control system. The physical isolation transformer, which relies on magnetic coupling and physical separation to prevent current paths and inrush currents, is replaced by an electronic control unit that uses voltage sensing, phase detection, and controlled switching of pre-charging circuits. This substitution of mechanical isolation with electronic control achieves the same protective effect without the volume and power loss penalties of the transformer

The patent extracts and removes the isolation transformer from the system architecture. Instead of relying on the transformer to provide isolation between power modules, the patent uses a control unit that monitors the electrical conditions and manages the connection and disconnection of power modules through electronic switching. The pre-charging circuits and controlled switching mechanisms provide the necessary isolation and protection functions without the energy losses inherent in transformer operation, thereby eliminating undesired power loss while maintaining module isolation

The patent replaces the mechanical/isolation transformer-based energy transmission system with an electronic control system. The transformer, which incurs copper losses, core losses, and leakage inductance effects, is substituted by an electronic control unit that uses voltage sensing, phase synchronization, and controlled switching of power semiconductor devices. This electronic substitution achieves the same isolation and energy transmission functions with significantly reduced power loss, thereby improving the overall efficiency of the power supply system while maintaining reliability