Line Module Power Threshold Control for PDU Current Limits
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Solution Overview
Problem
Network devices face challenges in accommodating varying power requirements, as existing power distribution systems are costly and difficult to modify, leading to risks of fuse blowing and circuit breaker tripping when maximum current ratings are exceeded, especially during high ambient temperatures and backup battery shutdown.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for power management that determine the maximum current rating of a power distribution unit (PDU) driven by a DC power plant with backup batteries, calculate the maximum aggregate current for line modules, and allocate current thresholds to prevent exceeding the PDU's maximum current rating, thereby preventing fuse blowing and circuit breaker tripping.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If the power distribution system is designed to accommodate network devices with higher power requirements, then the power capacity increases, but the cost and difficulty of modification increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic current threshold allocation that adjusts power distribution limits based on real-time conditions. The controller continuously monitors battery charge levels, ambient temperature, and line module power requirements, then dynamically allocates current thresholds to prevent exceeding PDU maximum ratings. This dynamic approach allows the system to accommodate higher power requirements when conditions permit while maintaining safety constraints, without requiring physical infrastructure modifications.
2Power
If the maximum current rating of the PDU is exceeded, then more power can be delivered to line modules, but fuse blowing and circuit breaker tripping occur
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary calculations of maximum aggregate current requirements for all line modules before power distribution. The controller determines the sum of maximum current requirements and compares it against the PDU's maximum current rating. When the aggregate current would exceed the rating, the system proactively allocates reduced current thresholds to individual line modules, preventing fuse blowing and circuit breaker tripping before they occur.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the controller continuously monitors the charge level of backup batteries and ambient temperature conditions. Based on this feedback, the controller adjusts current threshold allocations in real-time. When battery charge is low or temperature is high, the system reduces allocated currents to prevent exceeding PDU ratings, thereby maintaining system reliability while still providing adequate power under normal conditions.
3Reliability
If current thresholds are allocated to prevent exceeding maximum current rating, then system reliability improves, but the power delivery capability is constrained
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts current threshold allocations based on real-time monitoring of battery charge levels and ambient temperature. When conditions are favorable (adequate battery charge, normal temperature), the system allocates higher current thresholds that approach the PDU maximum rating, maximizing power delivery capability. When conditions deteriorate (low battery charge, high temperature), the system reduces allocations to maintain reliability. This dynamic approach resolves the contradiction by allowing high power delivery when safe and ensuring reliability when conditions require conservation.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of power management of one or more line modules in a network device includes obtaining a power rating of a line module of the one or more line modules; determining, based on the power rating, one or more of a current threshold and a shutdown voltage for the line module; and providing the current threshold and the shutdown voltage to the line module for storage thereon, wherein the line module is configured to monitor the current threshold and the shutdown voltage and operate based thereon.