Modular UPS with Autonomous Functional Modules
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional uninterruptible power supply (UPS) systems are inflexible and lack the capability to efficiently manage varying power requirements in large data centers, which can lead to inefficiencies and significant energy costs due to fixed configurations and limited redundancy.
Innovation Solution
A modular UPS system comprising functional modules with autonomous control and digital communication links, allowing for flexible interconnection and configuration to select the optimal power source based on availability and cost, thereby maximizing system efficiency and redundancy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional fixed-configuration UPS systems are used, then system reliability is maintained through dedicated power paths, but system flexibility and adaptability to varying power requirements deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The UPS system is divided into multiple functional modules (rectifier modules, inverter modules, battery modules, transfer modules) that can be independently configured and interconnected. Each module performs a specific power conversion function, allowing the system to be assembled in different topologies (series, parallel, delta-sigma) to match varying power requirements while maintaining reliable operation through dedicated power paths.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic reconfiguration capability where functional modules can be selectively activated or deactivated based on real-time power requirements. The controller dynamically adjusts the interconnection topology and power flow paths, enabling the system to adapt from high-reliability configurations for critical loads to more efficient configurations for non-critical loads.
2Adaptability or versatility
If modular functional modules with autonomous control are implemented, then system flexibility and adaptability improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functional modules are designed with standardized interfaces and protocols, allowing the same module types to serve multiple functions depending on their interconnection configuration. For example, rectifier modules can operate in different modes (AC-DC conversion, regenerative braking), and inverter modules can serve both critical and non-critical loads. This universality reduces the variety of unique components needed, thereby managing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
A centralized controller acts as an intermediary that manages the autonomous functional modules through standardized digital communication protocols. The controller handles the complex tasks of topology reconfiguration, power flow management, and coordination between modules, while each module maintains simple autonomous control for its specific function. This separation of complexity management reduces overall system complexity.
3Ease of operation
If digital communication links and autonomous control are used in functional modules, then ease of operation and dynamic power management improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each functional module is equipped with autonomous control capability that allows it to self-manage its operation based on local conditions and received commands. Modules can independently monitor their own status, detect faults, and adjust their operation without requiring constant centralized control intervention. This self-service approach simplifies operation while distributing complexity across modular units rather than concentrating it in a single complex controller.
Solution Approach 2:
Digital communication links establish bidirectional feedback loops between functional modules and the centralized controller. Modules continuously report their operational status, power output, and fault conditions to the controller, which responds with configuration commands. This feedback mechanism enables easy dynamic reconfiguration and power management, as the system automatically adjusts based on real-time conditions without requiring manual intervention or complex manual control systems.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
An uninterruptible power supply system (100) includes a plurality of functional modules (120,130,140,150,160) interconnected to form a power distribution network coupling at least two power sources (10a,10b) to a load (20). Each functional module has at least two ports coupled to at least one other of the functional modules and/or to at least one other external device and includes a control circuit configured to autonomously control at least one function relating to electrical power transfer between the at least two ports. The system further includes a controller module (110) configured to communicate with each of the functional modules over at least one digital communication link to control power flow between the at least two power sources (10a, 10b) and the load (20).