Modular PDU with Multi-Socket Module for Selective Power Supply

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing Power Distribution Units (PDUs) require two separate units to achieve double power supply, increasing installation costs and complexity in data center environments.

Innovation Solution

A modular PDU design that includes a base capable of transmitting different kinds of power, such as normal and emergency power, through a single unit, with a multi-socket module that can be connected in various directions to output specific types of power, allowing for easy extension and customization.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If two separate PDUs are used to achieve double power supply, then power redundancy is improved, but device complexity and installation cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower redundancyVSAvoidnumber of PDUs
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines two separate PDU functions into a single integrated PDU unit. The base PDU includes a controller that can selectively supply different types of power (normal power and emergency power) through the same physical unit, eliminating the need for two separate PDUs while maintaining power redundancy capability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The single PDU is designed to perform multiple functions by selectively supplying different power types. The controller can switch between providing normal power and emergency power through the same PDU unit, making it a universal power distribution solution that replaces multiple specialized devices

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If two separate PDUs are installed for double power supply, then power redundancy is achieved, but installation cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower redundancyVSAvoidinstallation cost
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

By merging the functionality of two PDUs into one, the patent reduces the total number of units that need to be purchased, installed, and maintained. This consolidation directly reduces installation costs while preserving the power redundancy function through selective power supply capability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Device complexity

If a single PDU supplies both normal and emergency power, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to different power types must be improved

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenumber of PDUsVSAvoidpower type selection
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The PDU incorporates a controller that dynamically switches between different power types based on operational needs. The system can adaptively select whether to supply normal power or emergency power through the same physical unit, providing versatility without requiring separate dedicated PDUs for each power type

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The controller enables the single PDU to universally handle multiple power types by selectively supplying either normal power or emergency power. This multi-functional capability allows one device to replace multiple specialized devices while maintaining adaptability to different operational requirements

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS9450357B2Module type power distribution unit having a multi socket module for selectively supplying different kinds of power
Publication Date: 2016.09.20 KOREA ELECTRONICS TECH INST
  • US9450357B2 patent drawing
  • US9450357B2 patent drawing
  • US9450357B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A module type PDU for different power supply is provided. The PDU includes: a base configured to transmit different kinds of power; and a multi socket module connected with the base to transmit one kind of power to devices plugs of which are connected to the multi socket module. Accordingly, double power supply can be achieved through a single PDU and thus a PDU installing cost can be reduced, and, as the number of PDUs is reduced, electric equipments can be simplified.