Parallel Power Supply Modules with Current Distribution Module

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing power supply systems for rack servers, which include a main and redundant power supply for each load, result in increased costs due to the redundancy.

Innovation Solution

A power supply system with three power supply modules and a current distribution module that connects them in parallel, allowing each module to provide equal voltage and adjustable current to multiple loads, enabling efficient distribution of power based on load requirements.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a main power supply and a redundant power supply are employed for each load, then the reliability of power supply is improved, but the cost of the power supply system increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower supply reliabilityVSAvoidpower supply system cost
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple power supply modules into a single integrated system with a common bus structure. Multiple power supply modules (first, second, third power supply modules) are connected to a shared current distribution module and common bus, eliminating the need for separate redundant power supply units for each load. This consolidation maintains reliability through dynamic current redistribution while reducing overall system complexity and cost.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The current distribution module serves multiple functions: it acts as a common connection point for all power supply modules, enables dynamic current redistribution among loads, and provides fault tolerance for the entire system. This multi-functional design replaces what would traditionally require separate dedicated redundant power supplies for each load, reducing system complexity while maintaining reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Device complexity

If multiple power supply modules are connected in parallel with current distribution module, then the cost is reduced by minimizing redundant components, but the complexity of current distribution control increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower supply system costVSAvoidcurrent distribution control
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The power supply system employs self-service through automatic current redistribution mechanisms. When a load experiences a fault or power supply failure, the system automatically detects the condition and redistributes current from other power supply modules through the common bus without requiring manual intervention. The control module monitors power supply status and dynamically adjusts current distribution, enabling the system to self-regulate and maintain operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS8803357B2Power supply system for rack server
Publication Date: 2014.08.12 CLOUD NETWORK TECH SINGAPORE PTE LTD
  • US8803357B2 patent drawing
  • US8803357B2 patent drawing
  • US8803357B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A power supply system is for supplying power to a number of loads, and includes a number of plugs, a number of power supply modules of the same type, and a number of current distribution modules. The plugs are respectively used for connecting to an external power source, to obtain alternating current. The power supply modules are connected to the respective plugs for converting the alternating current into direct current and providing the direct current to the loads according to the requirements of the loads. Each power supply module includes a positive electrode and a negative electrode, both of which connect to a corresponding load. The current distribution module electrically connects the positive electrodes to each other, and electrically connects the negative electrodes to each other, such that the power supply modules are connected in parallel.