Rack Power Distribution Unit Layout for Independent Outlet Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current power distribution units (PDUs) lack independent control over power output, leading to reduced user experience and are not conducive to miniaturization due to complex internal routing.
Innovation Solution
A power distribution unit with multiple switch mechanisms corresponding to power output terminal groups, allowing independent control of each group, and a compact design by arranging power output terminals and switch mechanisms in a specific layout within a housing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If one switch controls all power outputs, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ease of operation deteriorates as users cannot independently control individual power outputs
Solution Approach 1:
The power distribution unit is divided into multiple independently controllable modules, each with its own switch mechanism. The power output terminals are segmented into separate groups (first power output terminal group and second power output terminal group), allowing users to independently control each group without affecting other outlets. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by providing granular control while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular design.
2Volume of moving object
If traditional internal routing is used, then the ease of manufacture is improved, but the volume of the PDU increases making miniaturization difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a planar routing approach where power transmission lines are arranged in a two-dimensional plane rather than traditional three-dimensional routing. The first and second power transmission lines are positioned in the same plane, with switching elements integrated within this planar structure. This dimensional transformation reduces the overall volume requirement while maintaining manufacturability through simplified layer-based fabrication processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The switch mechanisms are nested within the power transmission line structure, with switching elements integrated into the same plane as the power lines. This nesting arrangement eliminates the need for separate dedicated spaces for switches and routing, allowing compact integration that reduces overall PDU volume while maintaining ease of manufacture through unified structural design.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple switches are provided for each power output terminal group, then the adaptability is improved for selective power control, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each switch mechanism is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a control element and an integrated part of the power transmission structure. The switches can control their respective power output terminal groups independently while also being part of the overall power distribution architecture. This universal design provides adaptability for selective control without proportionally increasing device complexity, as each switch serves multiple functional roles within its module.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are a power distribution unit and a rack system. The power distribution unit includes: a terminal block (1) having an input terminal (11) for power supply and a lead-out terminal (12) for power supply; at least one wiring pad (2) respectively electrically connected to the lead-out terminal (12); a plurality of power output terminal groups (3), each power output terminal group (3) being composed of at least one power output terminal (31), and each power output terminal (31) being electrically connected to a respective wiring pad (2); and a plurality of switch mechanisms (4) provided in such a way that a switch mechanism (4) is correspondingly provided for a power output terminal group (3), where the switch mechanism (4) causes the corresponding power output terminal group (3) to be electrically connected to or electrically disconnected from the corresponding wiring pad (2).