Mobile Rectifier Unit for Rapid DC Backup Power Deployment
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing DC power plants are vulnerable to AC power source failures due to weather events, flooding, or equipment theft/damage, leading to prolonged service disruptions and battery drain, with current portable rectifier units being cumbersome and requiring AC power restoration before deployment.
Innovation Solution
A mobile rectifier response unit, such as a trailer or truck, equipped with multiple rectifiers and cables capable of delivering over 800 amperes of DC power up to 250 feet, allowing direct DC power delivery to battery buses without AC power, and includes a generator for independent AC power if needed, with integrated control systems for voltage and amperage adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional portable rectifier units are used, then AC power restoration is required before deployment, but this extends downtime and delays service restoration
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile rectifier response unit is pre-positioned at strategic locations before AC power failures occur. The unit includes pre-connected DC output buses and sufficient cable length (at least 800 feet) ready for immediate deployment, eliminating the need to wait for AC power restoration or assemble equipment on-site.
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile rectifier response unit serves as an intermediary between the AC power source and the DC power plant. It includes a chassis with wheels for mobility, multiple rectifiers coupled to AC input and DC output buses, and extensive cabling to bridge the gap between power sources and loads, enabling direct DC power delivery without requiring functional AC infrastructure at the destination.
2Ease of operation
If rectifiers are placed in basement or ground floor locations, then they are accessible for maintenance, but they become vulnerable to flooding and theft
Solution Approach 1:
The rectifier system transitions from a static, fixed installation to a dynamic, mobile platform. The rectifier response unit includes a chassis with at least two wheels, allowing it to be moved to elevated or safe locations during flooding events while maintaining accessibility for maintenance when positioned in accessible areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile rectifier response unit serves multiple functions: it provides DC power output (exceeding 800 amperes) to support various DC power plants, acts as a mobile emergency power source during flooding or AC failures, and can be repositioned to different locations as needed. The unit includes an equipment enclosure housing multiple rectifiers and at least 800 feet of electrical cable for versatile deployment.
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
Facilitates rapid deployment and maintenance of DC power to critical equipment, reducing downtime by enabling direct DC power delivery even in flooded conditions, supporting multiple sites, and allowing independent AC power generation, thus ensuring continuous service.
Implementation Method 1
one or more rectifiers are used, which take alternating current (AC) inputs and provide DC outputs
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus may include a chassis, at least two wheels, and an equipment enclosure that includes an alternating current power source input, at least one direct current output bus, a plurality of rectifiers having an output capacity exceeding 800 amperes, where the plurality of rectifiers is coupled to the alternating current power source input and the at least one direct current output bus, and a plurality of electrical cables for connecting to the at least one direct current output bus, where a total length of the plurality of electrical cables exceeds 800 feet.