Modular Workstation DC Power Bus for Safe Reconfiguration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing furniture systems lack efficient and flexible power distribution mechanisms, particularly for extra-low voltage levels, which limits their reconfiguration and mobility without requiring qualified personnel and complicates the connection of multiple devices.
Innovation Solution
A power distribution system that includes a power input receptacle for extra-low voltage, a voltage regulator, a power distribution bus, and a safety disconnect, allowing for the conversion and distribution of power to various devices within a furniture system, along with an auxiliary power source for continued operation during power disruptions, enabling easy reconfiguration and mobility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional power distribution systems are used in furniture, then power can be supplied to devices, but the system requires qualified personnel for reconfiguration and lacks mobility
Solution Approach 1:
The power distribution system is segmented into modular components including power input receptacles integrated into furniture pieces, portable power distribution units, and individual device power adapters. This segmentation allows independent relocation and reconfiguration of each module without requiring qualified personnel, while maintaining safe power distribution through standardized connection interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
A portable power distribution unit serves as an intermediary between the fixed power source and multiple mobile devices. This intermediary consolidates power distribution functions in a single relocatable unit with standardized outputs, eliminating the need for hardwired electrical connections and allowing safe reconfiguration by end users.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple devices are connected to power sources, then devices can operate, but the connection process becomes complex and requires qualified personnel
Solution Approach 1:
The power distribution system employs universal standardized connectors and interfaces that can serve multiple devices simultaneously. The portable power distribution unit provides multiple standardized power outputs that can accommodate different device types, eliminating the need for specialized wiring for each device and simplifying connections to any complexity level.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables end users to independently connect and configure power distribution without requiring qualified personnel. Standardized plug-and-play interfaces allow users to simply plug devices into the portable power distribution unit, which automatically manages power allocation and connection establishment.
3Productivity
If utility power is used for furniture systems, then devices can operate, but operation continues during power disruptions without auxiliary power
Solution Approach 1:
The portable power distribution unit incorporates an auxiliary power source (battery) that is pre-charged before utility power failures occur. This preliminary energy storage ensures immediate continuity of power supply to connected devices during utility power disruptions, maintaining productivity without requiring complex real-time power management.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides beforehand cushioning against power disruptions by integrating an auxiliary power source that compensates for utility power failures. This prior preparation ensures continuous operation of critical devices during power outages, cushioning the impact of energy interruption while managing overall power consumption through intelligent load management.
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 flexible and safe power distribution to multiple devices within furniture systems, allowing for easy reconfiguration and mobility without the need for qualified personnel, while ensuring continuous operation through auxiliary power during utility power loss.
Implementation Method 1
a voltage regulator configured to regulate the input power and output a regulated power at a second voltage level
Implementation Method 2
an auxiliary power source for continued operation during power disruptions
Data Source
AI summary
A workspace includes a power input receptacle configured to receive an input power at a first voltage level, wherein the first voltage level is an extra-low voltage. The workspace further includes a voltage regulator configured to regulate the input power and output a regulated power at a second voltage level and a power distribution bus. The power distribution bus is configured to receive the input power from the power input receptacle. The workspace further includes a safety disconnect configured to disconnect the input power from the power distribution bus in response to detecting an adverse condition.