Power Shelf Migration Between Single-Phase and Three-Phase Power

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing power distribution systems in data centers face significant downtime and service interruptions when migrating from single-phase to three-phase power, as current configurations are not designed to handle the transition without disrupting power to computing devices and equipment.

Innovation Solution

A method and system that utilize multi-pin connectors and power adapters to seamlessly switch between single-phase and three-phase power sources within a power shelf, allowing for continuous operation by isolating neutral domains and using batteries or secondary power inputs to maintain power supply during the transition.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Power

If power distribution system is configured to change power sources from single-phase to three-phase, then power efficiency and capacity are improved, but service interruption and downtime occur

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower efficiencyVSAvoidservice continuity
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The power distribution system is segmented into multiple independent power sources (single-phase and three-phase) that can operate independently. The system divides the power supply into separate pathways, allowing one power source to remain active while another is switched or upgraded, thereby maintaining service continuity during power source transitions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary configuration by pre-installing both single-phase and three-phase power sources before migration is needed. The three-phase power source is prepared and tested in advance, allowing for a seamless switch without service interruption when migration becomes necessary.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Device complexity

If common power supply is used in rack, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to different power phases is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower supply configurationVSAvoidpower phase compatibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The power supply system is designed with universal adaptability to accept both single-phase and three-phase power inputs. The common power supply unit incorporates multiple input configurations and internal switching mechanisms that allow it to function with different power phases, eliminating the need for separate power supplies for each phase type while maintaining simplicity.

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

3Use of energy by moving object

If power sources are changed from single-phase to three-phase, then energy capacity is improved, but downtime and service loss occur

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy capacityVSAvoiddowntime
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system maintains continuous power supply to the rack during the transition from single-phase to three-phase power sources. By keeping the common power supply architecture and having both power source types available, the system ensures uninterrupted energy delivery to computing devices, eliminating downtime associated with power source changes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Data Source

PatentUS10386903B1Rack power shelf migration between single-phase and three-phase power
Publication Date: 2019.08.20 AMAZON TECH INC
  • US10386903B1 patent drawing
  • US10386903B1 patent drawing
  • US10386903B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for migrating a power shelf between being supplied single-phase power and three-phase power includes coupling a second power adapter to an input of a power shelf of a rack while power is being supplied to the power shelf via a first power adapter coupled to another input of the power shelf. The first power adapter includes a multi-pin connector coupled to the input and three other connectors each coupled to respective single-phase power sources and the second power adapter includes a multi-pin connector configured to couple with the other input and another connector configured to couple with a three-phase power source.