Parallel Backup Power Supply Cells for Data Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing backup power systems for computing data storage systems are limited by single cells that restrict the number of loads they can support and lack flexibility in managing power distribution, especially during primary power supply failures or maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A parallel backup power supply system comprising multiple cells coupled in parallel, each with a charging module and cell controller, managed by a system firmware that activates cells as they charge, allowing for flexible load management and increased power output by switching between constant current and constant voltage charging modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a single backup power supply cell is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the number of loads that can be supported is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The backup power supply is divided into multiple independent cells (first backup power supply cell, second backup power supply cell, etc.) that can be coupled in parallel. Each cell can be independently charged, monitored, and activated, allowing the system to support multiple loads simultaneously while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple backup power supply cells are combined in parallel configuration to collectively support multiple loads. The system merges the capacity of individual cells to provide sufficient power for cache memory and non-volatile memory operations during primary power failure, achieving greater total output without proportionally increasing control complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple cells are coupled in parallel, then the power output and flexibility are increased, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically activates or deactivates individual backup power supply cells based on real-time conditions such as charge status, load requirements, and system state. The management module can selectively enable cells during primary power failure and deactivate them when primary power is restored, providing adaptive flexibility without requiring permanent complex control structures for all possible scenarios
Solution Approach 2:
Each backup power supply cell includes its own charging module and can be independently managed. The system firmware monitors cell status and automatically coordinates charging and activation, reducing the burden on external management and allowing cells to largely manage their own power states while contributing to the collective backup function
3Power
If a single backup power supply is used per node, then the device complexity is reduced, but the power capacity for multiple loads is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The backup power supply capacity is segmented into multiple cells that can be distributed across a node. Each cell can be dedicated to supporting specific loads (cache memory, non-volatile memory, etc.), ensuring sufficient power capacity for each load while maintaining independent control that prevents the complexity of a monolithic high-capacity power supply
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 configuration enhances the number of loads supported and provides flexible power management, enabling seamless addition or removal of loads without disrupting service, and efficiently handles primary power supply failures by distributing backup power across multiple cells.
Implementation Method 1
A backup power supply can include a number of cells coupled in parallel. Each cell can include a charging module to charge an associated backup power supply cell.
Implementation Method 2
Providing backup power via cells coupled in parallel can increase the quantity of loads that are supported by the cells as compared to providing backup power via a single cell.
Data Source
AI summary
Example implementations relate to a parallel backup power supply. For example, a parallel backup power supply system can include a plurality of backup power supply cells that support a plurality of loads. Each of the backup power supply cells can include a charging module to charge an associated backup power supply cell among the plurality of backup power supply cells and a cell controller. The cell controller is to can be configured to control the charging module and communicate with a management module. The parallel backup power supply system can also include the management module to activate each of the plurality of backup power supply cells to provide backup power in parallel to the plurality of loads as each of the plurality of backup power supply cells is fully charged.