Modular Power Supply Architecture for Data Center Reliability
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing power supply architectures for data centers are inefficient and costly due to redundant systems that often idle, leading to resource wastage and increased complexity, with diesel generators being limited by environmental regulations.
Innovation Solution
A modular power supply architecture that utilizes direct current (DC) buses, utility switches, battery storage, photovoltaic systems, and a two-layer control system to dynamically manage power distribution among server clusters, allowing for efficient sharing of backup power and renewable energy sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If redundant power supply systems (diesel generators, battery backup) are implemented to ensure uninterruptable service, then reliability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply system is divided into modular units, each serving a specific rack or group of racks. Each module contains its own power supply units (PSUs) and can be independently configured with redundancy levels. This segmentation allows reliability to be ensured where needed while avoiding unnecessary complexity in other areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The power supply modules are designed to be universal and can serve multiple functions: primary power supply, backup power supply, and scalable expansion. The same modular architecture can accommodate different redundancy configurations (1:1, N:1, or no redundancy) depending on the specific requirements of each rack or application.
2Reliability
If redundant power supply equipment is provided for each server rack, then reliability is improved, but device complexity and resource utilization efficiency worsen
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of providing full redundancy at every rack level, the system segments power supply functions into modular units that can be hierarchically organized. Redundancy is implemented at the module level rather than the individual rack level, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining reliability through the modular architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple power supply modules can be combined to serve multiple racks, consolidating redundant backup resources. The modular design allows backup power capacity to be shared across multiple racks through the hierarchical structure, reducing the total amount of redundant equipment needed compared to dedicated 1:1 redundancy at each rack.
3Reliability
If dedicated backup equipment is provided for each server cluster, then reliability is improved, but resource utilization efficiency worsens due to idle equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The modular power supply units are designed to be universal and can function as either primary or backup power sources depending on the operational state. During normal operation, backup modules remain in standby mode; when primary modules fail or are taken offline for maintenance, the backup modules automatically activate, ensuring continuous power supply without permanent idle capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the operational state of power supply modules based on real-time conditions. Modules can transition between active, standby, and maintenance states, allowing the system to optimize resource utilization while maintaining reliability. The hierarchical modular structure enables flexible reconfiguration of power paths as needs change.
4Productivity
If additional server units are added for capacity expansion, then productivity is improved, but device complexity and cost increase due to additional facility equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The modular power supply architecture allows capacity expansion by simply adding new modular units to the existing hierarchical structure. Each new module integrates seamlessly with the existing power distribution network, avoiding the need for complex reconfiguration of backup systems or additional dedicated facility equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The universal modular design means that the same power supply modules used for initial deployment can serve expanded capacity requirements. The hierarchical structure allows new modules to be incorporated at any level, maintaining the same reliability and redundancy characteristics without requiring different types of equipment for expansion.
5Reliability
If diesel generators are installed for backup power, then reliability is improved, but environmental compliance worsens due to CO2 emission limitations
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and eliminates the need for diesel generators from the backup power system by using modular power supply units that can be configured with various power sources. The modular architecture allows replacement of fossil fuel-based generators with cleaner alternatives while maintaining the same reliability function.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows changing the power source parameter of backup modules from diesel generators to alternative sources such as battery energy storage systems, fuel cells, or connection to the utility grid. The modular design maintains the same functional interface and control mechanisms regardless of the specific power source used, enabling flexible transition to environmentally compliant solutions.
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
This approach reduces capital and operational costs, maximizes power utilization, and enhances efficiency by enabling flexible configuration and sharing of backup resources, while minimizing the need for redundant equipment and adhering to environmental regulations.
Implementation Method 1
a photovoltaic (PV) system and a PV switch connecting the PV system to the DC bus
Implementation Method 2
a battery storage and a storage switch connecting the battery storage to the DC bus
Data Source
AI summary
A power delivery system for data center. Servers are divided into server clusters, and each server cluster is served by multiple power source with multiple inputs from a power supply module. Each power supply module includes a local bus and a local controller which controls connections on the local bus to deliver utility power to its assigned server cluster or backup power to any of the server clusters. Each of the power supply modules has a battery storage system with switchable connections to the local bus and to an inter-system bus, and a PV system with switchable connections to the local bus and to an inter-system bus. The battery storage system may be charged from the utility power or the PV system. The inter-system bus is connected to all of the server clusters, such that power flowing in the inter-system bus can be delivered and dispatched to power any server cluster.