Modular Power Array With Hot-Swappable Units for Sustained Charging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing portable power systems lack the ability to provide sustained charging of loads and aggregated power using removable portable power units, especially in remote locations or during natural disasters where traditional generators are ineffective due to fuel availability issues.
Innovation Solution
A modular solar power array system comprising a scalable solar panel, DC to AC converter, power input switch, bus, portable power units, and controllers that manage power distribution and storage, allowing for swappable and hot-pluggable units to ensure continuous power supply.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional generators are used to provide power in remote locations or during natural disasters, then power can be delivered to loads, but fuel availability becomes a limiting factor and vehicles cannot transport fuel to areas in timely fashion
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the power supply into modular components: a base station with fuel tank and generator, and multiple portable power units that can be independently deployed. This segmentation allows the fuel source to remain stationary while power is distributed to multiple locations simultaneously, eliminating the need to transport fuel to each remote location.
Solution Approach 2:
The portable power units act as intermediaries between the base station and remote loads. These units receive power from the base station and can also charge other portable units or directly power loads at remote locations, serving as mobile energy buffers that extend the reach of the stationary fuel source.
2Duration of action of moving object
If a single large power system is deployed to provide sustained charging, then power availability is improved, but system complexity and deployment difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The power system is divided into a base station and multiple identical portable power units. Each portable unit is a self-contained module with standardized interfaces, allowing them to be independently deployed and combined. This modular approach enables sustained charging through aggregation of multiple units while keeping individual unit complexity low and deployment straightforward.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple portable power units can be electrically connected in parallel to aggregate their power output, creating a combined system that provides sustained charging capability. The standardized interfaces allow seamless merging of units without increasing operational complexity, as the system automatically balances load distribution among connected units.
3Adaptability or versatility
If portable power units are made removable and hot-pluggable for flexible deployment, then adaptability is improved, but connection reliability and power transfer stability may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The portable power units feature universal standardized connectors that support multiple functions: AC power input, DC power output, and inter-unit power transfer. This universal interface design enables hot-pluggable deployment flexibility while maintaining connection reliability through consistent mechanical and electrical specifications across all units and the base station.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates control circuits that monitor connection status and power transfer parameters in real-time. When units are hot-plugged or disconnected, the control system detects these changes and adjusts power distribution accordingly, preventing instability and maintaining reliable operation throughout dynamic reconfiguration events.
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
Enables reliable power delivery to remote locations using solar and external sources, balancing charge across units, and providing flexible power output to various loads, enhancing resilience during emergencies.
Implementation Method 1
solar panel; a solar power controller in communications with the solar panel configured to convert a first voltage to a second voltage
Implementation Method 2
a solar power controller in communications with the solar panel configured to convert a first voltage to a second voltage
Implementation Method 3
a DC to AC converter in communications with the solar power controller
Data Source
AI summary
The system may include a mobile platform. The system may include an input power bus carried by the mobile platform. The system may include a set of base power units attached to the input power bus for receiving power from an external power source. The system may include a set of portable power units removable attached to the input power bus for receiving power from the external power source; and the system may include a power out bus connected to the set of base power units and the set of portable power units adapted to receive power from the set of base power units and the set of portable power units.