Hot-Swappable Rectifier PSU for Dual-Source Server Redundancy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing server power supply units require multiple units for redundancy, lacking flexibility and efficiency in handling dual input power sources, and do not support hot-swappable rectifier modules.
Innovation Solution
A power supply unit with hot-swappable rectifier modules and dual input sources, featuring a voltage regulator and an enclosure with slots for rectifier modules, enabling redundancy and fail-over operations while supporting both DC and AC power inputs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple power supply units are used for redundancy, then reliability is improved, but device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple rectifier modules (AC and DC) into a single power supply unit, merging their functions to provide redundancy without requiring multiple separate power supply units. The controller manages multiple input sources within one unified structure, achieving reliability improvement while reducing overall system complexity and space requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The power supply unit is designed with universal input capability to accept both AC and DC power sources through different rectifier modules. This multi-functionality allows a single unit to provide redundant power paths for various input types, eliminating the need for separate dedicated power supplies for different input sources.
2Ease of operation
If traditional power supply units are used without hot-swappable modules, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but maintenance flexibility and operational continuity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply unit is segmented into modular rectifier modules that can be independently removed and replaced. Each rectifier module is a discrete, hot-swappable component that interfaces with the controller through standardized connections, enabling maintenance flexibility and operational continuity without requiring complex custom assembly procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements dynamic reconfiguration capability where the controller can switch between active and standby rectifier modules in real-time. This dynamic operation allows hot-swappable modules to be replaced without system shutdown, maintaining operational continuity while using standard modular components that balance manufacturing ease with maintenance flexibility.
3Adaptability or versatility
If single input source power supplies are used, then device simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to different power sources and redundancy are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply unit is designed with universal input capability to accept both AC and DC power sources through different rectifier modules. This multi-functionality allows a single unit to provide redundant power paths for different input types, achieving high adaptability while managing complexity through standardized modular architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-configures multiple rectifier modules (AC and DC) in standby positions before failure occurs. The controller is pre-programmed to manage switching between different input sources, so when a failure or power source change is needed, the transition can occur immediately without complex real-time configuration, reducing operational complexity while maintaining versatility.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Provides flexible configuration and redundancy in power supply, allowing hot-swappable rectifier modules for efficient operation with either DC or AC power sources, reducing the need for multiple units and ensuring continuous power availability.
Implementation Method 1
A voltage regulator that receives an input voltage at a first voltage level and that may provide a regulated output voltage at a second voltage level
Implementation Method 2
A first slot to receive a first rectifier module and a second slot to receive a second rectifier module
Data Source
AI summary
A power supply unit for a computer component includes a voltage regulator and an enclosure. The voltage regulator receives an input voltage at a first voltage level and provides a regulated output voltage at a second voltage level. The enclosure houses the voltage regulator and includes a first slot to receive a first rectifier module and a second slot to receive a second rectifier module. The first slot is configured to couple a first output from the first rectifier module to the input of the first voltage regulator, and the second slot is configured to couple a first output from the second rectifier module to the input of the first voltage regulator.