Hot-Swappable Daisy-Chain Power Distribution Modules
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power and data supply systems require shutdown and deenergization of the entire system for component replacement or addition, which is undesirable in many industries due to safety concerns, increased effort, and downtime.
Innovation Solution
A hot-swappable system with a daisy-chain configuration of source modules and system modules, allowing individual system modules to be replaced without powering down the power and data sources, maintaining electrical ground connection, and using blind mating interface connectors for safe and efficient installation and servicing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional power and data supply systems are used, then system reliability is maintained through centralized control, but system downtime increases and safety concerns arise when component replacement is needed
Solution Approach 1:
The power and data supply system is divided into modular components (power supply modules, data modules, distribution units) that can be independently replaced. Each module has standardized connectors allowing individual component replacement without shutting down the entire system, thus maintaining reliability while eliminating downtime during maintenance.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates hot-swappable connectors and dynamic power management capabilities that allow modules to be added or removed while the system remains operational. The modular architecture enables flexible reconfiguration and continuous operation during component replacement, resolving the contradiction between reliability and downtime.
2Device complexity
If traditional power and data supply systems are used, then centralized control is maintained, but safety concerns increase during component replacement
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the system into isolated modular units with individual disconnectable connectors, each module can be serviced independently without exposing technicians to the entire energized system. This reduces safety hazards while maintaining centralized control through standardized interfaces and management protocols.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular connectors act as intermediaries that allow safe disconnection and reconnection of power and data lines. These standardized interfaces include built-in safety features such as ground fault protection and isolated grounding, enabling component replacement without direct exposure to high-voltage circuits.
3Stability of the object's composition
If traditional power and data supply systems are used, then system stability is maintained, but installation and servicing effort increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system is composed of standardized modular units with uniform connectors and mounting interfaces. This segmentation allows quick installation and replacement of individual modules without complex wiring or system reconfiguration, reducing servicing effort while maintaining system stability through consistent modular architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular design employs universal connectors and standardized interfaces that work across all system components. This universality simplifies installation and maintenance procedures, allowing technicians to service any module using the same techniques and tools, thereby reducing overall effort while preserving system stability.
4Device complexity
If traditional power and data supply systems are used, then complete system control is maintained, but skill requirements for technicians increase
Solution Approach 1:
Segmenting the system into standardized modules with uniform connectors and mounting procedures reduces the complexity of repair tasks. Technicians only need to learn basic module replacement procedures rather than complex system-level troubleshooting, lowering skill requirements while maintaining complete system control through modular architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular design with standardized interfaces enables self-explanatory installation and replacement procedures. Modules are designed to be easily identified, connected, and replaced without requiring advanced diagnostic skills or complex tooling, reducing technician skill requirements while preserving system control through consistent modular standards.
Data Source
AI summary
Electrical power and/or data are distributed to one or more electrical devices, preferably mounted on a structure. A first source module is electrically connected to an electrical power and/or data source. Additional source modules are connected in a daisy chain to the first source module. A plurality of system modules is mounted on the source modules. Each system module is electrically connectable to, and disconnectable from, a module connector of a respective source module. Each system module is removable from the respective source module for replacement without powering down the power and/or data source, and without affecting the data distribution.