Modular Power Backplane With Self-Configuring Power Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular power systems require skilled labor for configuration and maintenance, are prone to installation errors, and lack compatibility between components from different manufacturers, leading to increased costs and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A modular power system with a high current backplane and memory device for storing configuration data, allowing easy assembly and maintenance by unskilled labor, and ensuring compatibility through slot-specific connectors and processors that verify correct installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If modular power systems use separate components with internal configuration storage, then system functionality can be achieved, but skilled labor is required for configuration and maintenance, increasing operational complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-configuration through automatic module identification and parameter detection. When modules are connected, the control unit automatically detects module types, retrieves appropriate configuration parameters from the database, and configures the system without requiring skilled intervention. This eliminates the need for manual configuration while maintaining full system functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
Configuration parameters are pre-stored in a database associated with each module type before the system operates. The system retrieves these pre-prepared parameters automatically during operation, eliminating the need for on-site configuration by skilled personnel and reducing operational complexity.
2Productivity
If components are configured before installation, then installation speed increases, but installation errors may occur and require correction
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-configuration after installation by automatically detecting module types and retrieving appropriate parameters. This eliminates the need for pre-installation configuration, allowing unskilled workers to install modules without risking configuration errors, while maintaining installation speed through the automated post-installation setup.
3Productivity
If un-configured components are installed first, then installation speed increases, but skilled labor is still needed for subsequent configuration
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit automatically detects un-configured modules, retrieves their configuration parameters from the database based on module type identification, and configures them without skilled intervention. This maintains fast installation by unskilled workers while eliminating the subsequent configuration step that previously required skilled labor.
4Power
If power cables are made thick to handle higher power levels, then power transmission capability increases, but cables become unwieldy and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses DC voltage operation at higher voltage levels to reduce current requirements, allowing the use of thinner, more manageable cables while maintaining the same power transmission capability. This parameter change from traditional AC operation to DC operation enables reduced cable size and improved handling without sacrificing power capacity.
5Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate units (inverter, charger, transfer switch) are used, then system functionality is achieved, but system complexity and number of connections increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system integrates the inverter, charger, transfer switch, and control functions into a single integrated control unit that manages all power conversion and distribution functions. This consolidation reduces the number of separate components and connections required while maintaining all necessary system functionalities, simplifying both installation and maintenance.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a modular power system. The modular power system comprises a high current backplane for providing electrical connections, the high current backplane comprises a plurality of slots wherein each slot is configured to receive a power module from a plurality of power modules, and wherein a power module of the plurality of power modules can be removably coupled to a slot of the plurality of slots; and at least one memory device configured to store configuration data for one or more of the plurality of power modules, wherein each power module of the plurality of power modules comprises a processor operatively coupled with the at least one memory device to employ the configuration data for a desired operation of the modular power system.