LPS Architecture for UPS Systems Using Single Transformer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional Logic Power Supply (LPS) systems in Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS) are costly, inefficient, and overly complex due to the use of two full capacity converters and are limited by the need for compatible line and battery voltages, with neutral backfeed relays that only allow powering from one source at a time.
Innovation Solution
A new LPS architecture that uses a single transformer with multiple windings to selectively couple AC or DC power sources, allowing operation from both AC mains and battery, with a backfeed relay enabling power from wide-ranging voltages and neutral line management to provide continuous power supply.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If two full capacity converters are used in traditional LPS systems, then power supply capability is ensured, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate full capacity converters into a single transformer with multiple windings. The primary winding connects to AC power source, the second primary winding connects to DC power source, and the secondary winding provides output. This merging reduces component count and system complexity while maintaining the ability to handle both AC and DC power sources simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The single transformer is designed with multi-functionality to perform the roles of two separate converters. By incorporating multiple windings (primary, second primary, and secondary), the transformer can accept both AC and DC inputs and provide isolated DC output, replacing the need for two dedicated converters and reducing overall system complexity.
2Stability of the object's composition
If traditional LPS systems use fixed voltage compatibility requirements, then system stability is maintained, but adaptability to different voltage sources is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adapts to different power sources through controlled switching. The controller monitors the power source type (AC or DC) and activates the appropriate winding configuration. This dynamic switching capability allows the system to maintain stability across varying voltage sources without requiring fixed voltage compatibility, enhancing adaptability while preserving system stability.
3Reliability
If neutral backfeed relays are used to allow single-source powering, then safety is improved, but operational flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the transformer into distinct windings for different power sources (AC primary winding, DC second primary winding, and secondary winding). This segmentation allows independent control and switching of each power source path, enabling the system to safely handle both AC and DC inputs simultaneously or separately, thereby improving operational flexibility while maintaining safety through isolated pathways.
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
This solution reduces costs and complexity, enables efficient operation from varying voltage sources, and provides protection against line neutral reversal, resulting in a more efficient and reliable power supply system.
Implementation Method 1
a transformer including at least one primary winding configured to be coupled to a DC power source, and at least one secondary winding
Data Source
AI summary
At least some embodiments herein provide a UPS comprising an input, a transformer including at least one primary winding, a relay, a sense circuit, and a current control circuit, wherein the sense circuit is configured to monitor input power, control the relay to couple, in a first mode, the input to the at least one primary winding when input power is above an input threshold, and control the relay to decouple, in a second mode, the input from the at least one primary winding when input power is below the input threshold, and wherein the current control circuit is configured, in the first mode, to control current from an AC source through the at least one primary winding to generate an output voltage and, in the second mode, to control current from a DC source through the at least one primary winding to generate the output voltage.