Mixed AC/DC UPS Architecture for Shared Load Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing UPS systems require separate units for AC and DC loads, leading to complexity, inefficiency, and potential stranded capacity in datacenters as load requirements change over time.
Innovation Solution
A single UPS system with both AC and DC outputs, utilizing bidirectional inverters and transformers for isolation, and a controller to regulate voltage and power factor correction for both AC and DC loads.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate UPS systems are used for AC and DC loads, then each load type can be independently protected, but system complexity increases and capacity utilization decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines separate AC and DC UPS systems into a single integrated UPS system that can simultaneously protect both AC and DC loads. The system includes AC and DC outputs from a shared power conversion architecture, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining independent protection for each load type.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated UPS system provides universal power protection for both AC and DC loads through a single device. The system can operate in multiple modes (AC input to AC output, AC input to DC output, DC battery to AC output, DC battery to DC output) making it adaptable to various load requirements and changing capacity needs.
2Reliability
If separate UPS systems are used for AC and DC loads, then dedicated power management is achieved, but efficiency decreases due to stranded capacity
Solution Approach 1:
By merging AC and DC UPS capabilities into one system, the patent enables shared power conversion resources and battery capacity. This allows dynamic allocation of power conversion capacity and battery energy to either AC or DC loads based on real-time demands, eliminating stranded capacity and improving overall efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts power flow and capacity allocation between AC and DC outputs based on changing load requirements. The power conversion architecture can flexibly redirect power conversion capacity and battery energy to whichever load type requires it most, optimizing resource utilization and preventing energy waste.
3Reliability
If fixed capacity UPS systems are deployed, then initial load requirements are met, but adaptability to changing load requirements decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated UPS system provides universal support for both AC and DC loads with a single device, enabling flexible adaptation to changing load mix ratios. As data centers transition between AC and DC load proportions, the system can seamlessly adjust its power conversion and distribution to match evolving requirements without requiring replacement or addition of dedicated UPS units.
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 system complexity, adapts to changing load requirements, provides efficient power management, and ensures isolation between AC and DC loads, enhancing safety and flexibility in datacenters.
Implementation Method 1
a first bidirectional inverter coupled between the DC bus and a first transformer, the first transformer coupled to the input and configured to provide isolation between the input and the DC source, a second bidirectional inverter coupled between the DC bus and a second transformer
Implementation Method 2
a first bidirectional inverter coupled between the DC bus and a first transformer, the first transformer coupled to the input and configured to provide isolation between the input and the DC source
Data Source
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AI summary
According to one aspect, embodiments of the invention provide a UPS comprising an input to receive input AC power, a bus configured to receive backup DC power, a first output configured to provide an output AC voltage derived from at least one of the input AC power and the backup DC power, a second output configured to provide an output DC voltage derived from at least one of the input AC power and the backup DC power, a first inverter coupled between the bus and a first transformer, the first transformer coupled to the input, a second inverter coupled between the bus and a second transformer, the second transformer coupled to the first output, and a controller configured to operate the second inverter to maintain the output AC voltage above a first threshold value and to operate the first inverter to maintain the output DC voltage above a second threshold.