Redundant Data Center Power Busbar for 133% Failover Loading
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing redundant power supply systems for data centers are economically inefficient due to the need for each power supply to handle twice the load in case of a failure, leading to increased costs and complexity.
Innovation Solution
The system interconnects two independent power supply subsystems via a busbar and tie switches, allowing each power supply to handle only 133% of the normal load, as power lost from one supply can be compensated by three others without operator intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If each power supply is dimensioned to handle twice the load in case of failure, then reliability is improved, but cost increases considerably
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple power supply subsystems through a common busbar structure, allowing power supplies to share load dynamically. Instead of isolating power supplies as independent units, they are combined into an interconnected system where the busbar enables automatic load redistribution, resolving the contradiction by achieving reliability through system integration rather than individual unit oversizing
Solution Approach 2:
Each power supply unit is designed to serve multiple functions: it can supply power to its designated load under normal conditions and automatically supply power to other loads when failures occur. The tie switches enable each power supply to function as both a primary and backup supply, eliminating the need for oversized individual units while maintaining reliability
2Reliability
If each power supply is designed to bear twice the load, then operation during failure is ensured, but economic efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from a static power supply configuration to a dynamic one where tie switches automatically change states based on system conditions. Under normal operation, tie switches are open and each power supply operates at normal load. Upon failure, tie switches close automatically to redistribute load dynamically, enabling economic operation during normal conditions while ensuring operational continuity during failures
Solution Approach 2:
The power supply system implements self-service through automatic detection and response to failures. When a power supply fails, the system automatically redistributes the load through tie switches without requiring external intervention or complex control systems, maintaining operational continuity while avoiding the economic inefficiency of permanently oversized power supplies
3Reliability
If complex circuitry is used to ensure redundant power supply operation, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the power supply system into modular units, each with its own power supply and tie switches. This segmentation allows each module to operate independently under normal conditions while enabling automatic failover through simple switch operations, reducing the need for complex interconnections and control circuitry compared to integrated redundant systems
Solution Approach 2:
The busbar serves as an intermediary element that simplifies the connection between multiple power supply units and loads. Instead of requiring complex control circuitry to manage power distribution during failures, the busbar provides a passive electrical pathway that automatically enables load redistribution when tie switches close, significantly reducing device complexity
Data Source
AI summary
A redundant power supply has a first power supply, which is disconnectedly connected to a busbar by means of a first tie switch and is connectable to a first load without a tie switch, and having a second power supply, which is disconnectedly connected to the busbar by means of a second tie switch and is connectable to the first load without a tie switch, and having a third power supply, which is disconnectedly connected to the busbar by means of a third tie switch and is connectable to a second load without a tie switch, and having a fourth power supply, which is disconnectedly connected to the busbar by means of a fourth tie switch and is connectable to the second load without a tie switch. All of the tie switches are closed during trouble-free operation.