Modular UPS Bypass Circuit for Hot-Swappable Power Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing uninterruptible power supplies face challenges in replacing uninterruptible-power-supply modules without disrupting power supply to the load, as internal circuitry cannot be brought to zero voltage when input and output buses are disconnected.
Innovation Solution
The uninterruptible power supply includes a module interrupter and a bypass circuit part with a switching circuit, allowing electrical disconnection of the uninterruptible-power-supply module from the bus part while maintaining power supply to the load, and a housing-accommodating part that facilitates easy replacement and maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If the input and output buses extend across multiple modules to enable power distribution, then the power supply capability is improved, but the ability to replace modules without interrupting power supply deteriorates because internal circuitry cannot be brought to zero voltage
Solution Approach 1:
The uninterruptible power supply system is divided into multiple independent uninterruptible-power-supply modules, each with its own input and output switches. This segmentation allows individual modules to be isolated and replaced without affecting the entire system, as other modules can continue to supply power through the common buses.
Solution Approach 2:
Input and output switches are introduced as intermediary components between the power converter and the input/output buses. These switches act as mediators that can be turned off to electrically isolate a module from the buses, enabling safe module replacement while maintaining power supply through other modules.
2Reliability
If the input and output switches are turned off to bring internal circuitry to zero voltage for module replacement, then the safety for module replacement is improved, but the continuity of power supply to the load deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system is designed with multiple uninterruptible-power-supply modules that can function interchangeably. When one module is being replaced, other modules continue to perform the power conversion and supply function, ensuring that the overall system maintains its utility without interruption.
Solution Approach 2:
The input and output switches are turned off in advance before module replacement begins, bringing the internal circuitry to zero voltage. This preliminary action ensures safety for the replacement operation while the system design allows power to be maintained through other modules.
3Device complexity
If the bus part is shared across multiple modules to improve system integration, then the device complexity is reduced, but the difficulty of isolating individual modules for maintenance increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit monitors the operational status of each module and provides feedback control for the input and output switches. This feedback mechanism enables the control unit to selectively turn off switches for modules requiring maintenance while keeping switches for operational modules closed, facilitating easy isolation of individual modules despite shared bus architecture.
Data Source
AI summary
An uninterruptible power supply according to this invention includes an uninterruptible-power-supply module including a power conversion housing accommodating a power converter. The uninterruptible power supply includes a bus part arranged outside the power conversion housing of the uninterruptible-power-supply module, and configured to deliver input/output power from/to the uninterruptible-power-supply modules. Also, the uninterruptible power supply includes a module interrupter provided between the uninterruptible-power-supply module and the bus part and configured to electrically entirely disconnect the uninterruptible-power-supply module from the bus part. Also, the uninterruptible power supply includes a bypass circuit part including a switching circuit for switching electrical conduction, and configured to supply AC power from a bypass AC power supply to the load without connection through the uninterruptible-power-supply module.