Modular Power Distribution Rack With Flexible Interface
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power distribution systems for modular electronic systems, such as internet server farms and telecommunications systems, require improved techniques to ensure high availability and reliability, particularly during power failures, and current modular UPS systems lack flexibility and scalability.
Innovation Solution
A modular power distribution system comprising equipment racks with fixed power input cables and connectors, a power distribution rack with circuit interruption devices and a bypass switch, and an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) rack, allowing for flexible and scalable power distribution with visible grouping of connectors by phase or power source, enabling easy load balancing and expansion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If modular UPS systems are used for power distribution, then reliability during power failures is improved, but flexibility and scalability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The power distribution system is divided into modular components including power distribution units (PDUs), equipment racks, and circuit interruption devices that can be independently configured and scaled. Each PDU can be individually selected and positioned to match specific equipment power requirements, allowing the system to grow incrementally while maintaining reliability through standardized modular interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic load balancing capabilities where power distribution can be actively adjusted and reallocated based on changing equipment requirements. Circuit interruption devices can dynamically control power delivery to different racks, and the modular architecture allows reconfiguration as equipment is added, removed, or migrated between racks.
2Reliability
If fixed power input cables are attached to equipment rack frames, then connection reliability is improved, but adaptability to different equipment configurations is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Standardized power input cables with universal connectors are designed to interface with multiple equipment types and configurations. The cables incorporate robust connectors that can mate with various outlet types, and the fixed attachment method provides reliable mechanical and electrical connection while the standardized interface allows the same cable to serve different equipment rack configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The power distribution system allows adjustment of electrical parameters such as voltage, current, and phase distribution through programmable circuit interruption devices. This enables the same physical cable infrastructure to adapt to different power requirements by changing electrical parameters rather than requiring physical reconfiguration of cable connections.
3Reliability
If power distribution racks include circuit interruption devices and bypass switches, then control and protection are improved, but device complexity is increased
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple protective and control functions including circuit interruption, bypass switching, and load monitoring are integrated into unified power distribution units. This consolidation provides comprehensive protection and control capabilities while reducing the number of separate components and simplifying the overall system architecture compared to having discrete devices for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The circuit interruption devices and bypass switches are designed with automatic operation capabilities that monitor system conditions and activate protective functions without manual intervention. The system can automatically detect faults, isolate affected circuits, and switch to bypass modes, providing intelligent self-protection that reduces the need for complex manual control systems.
4Ease of operation
If connectors are visibly grouped by phase or power source, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing complexity is increased
Solution Approach 1:
Connectors are color-coded or visually distinguished by phase or power source using different colors, markings, or labeling. This visual grouping system provides immediate identification for operators during installation and maintenance, reducing errors and improving operational efficiency while requiring only simple visual identification features during manufacturing.
Solution Approach 2:
Connectors are pre-configured and pre-labeled during manufacturing with their assigned phase or power source identification. This preliminary organization of connectors before system assembly simplifies installation operations and reduces the need for complex on-site configuration, as the visual grouping is already established during the manufacturing process.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular electronic equipment system includes a plurality of equipment racks. Each equipment rack includes a equipment rack frame configured to receive and support electronic equipment, a power input cable having a first end fixedly attached to the equipment rack frame and configured to be electrically coupled to electronic equipment supported by the equipment rack frame to provide power thereto and a first connector attached to a second end of the power input cable. The system further includes a power distribution rack. The power distribution rack includes a power distribution rack frame and a plurality of second connectors supported by the power distribution rack frame and configured to pluggably mate with the first connectors of the equipment racks.