Redundant Input Power Switching for Lower-Cost Power Supply Reliability
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Solution Overview
Problem
The dual redundant power supply mode requires two sets of power supply devices, leading to a higher cost without an effective solution in existing technologies.
Innovation Solution
A power supply device with an automatic transfer switch, power factor correction circuit, and DC-DC converter, which automatically switches between two input power supplies using relays and detects abnormal conditions to maintain power delivery without the need for dual redundant setups.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If dual redundant power supply mode is adopted with two sets of power supply devices, then reliability of powering is improved, but cost of the entire power supply device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two separate power supply devices into a single integrated device that can accept two different input power sources (e.g., grid power and generator power). The power supply device includes switching circuitry that automatically or manually selects between the two input sources, eliminating the need for two separate power supply devices while maintaining redundant powering capability. This reduces cost and device complexity while preserving reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The power supply device is designed with multi-functionality to handle multiple input power sources through a single device architecture. It incorporates universal input terminals and control logic that can accommodate different power sources, allowing one device to perform the function of what would traditionally require two separate devices. This universal design reduces overall system cost while maintaining the ability to switch between power sources for reliability.
2Reliability
If dual redundant power supply mode is adopted with two sets of power supply devices, then reliability of powering is improved, but quantity of components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the functionality of two separate power supply devices into a single integrated unit. The device includes input terminals for two different power sources, switching mechanisms, and power conversion circuitry all within one device housing. This merging reduces the quantity of power supply devices from two to one while maintaining the ability to switch between power sources for reliable operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The single power supply device is segmented into functional modules that can independently handle different input sources. The device includes separate input circuits for each power source, a switching control module, and a common power output stage. This segmentation allows one device to perform the work of two while organizing the internal architecture efficiently to minimize component quantity.
3Reliability
If automatic transfer switch is implemented to switch between power supplies, then reliability is maintained during abnormalities, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automatic transfer switch incorporates self-service features with built-in detection circuitry that automatically monitors the status of both power sources and performs switching operations without external intervention. The device includes voltage detection, fault detection, and automatic transfer logic that operates autonomously, reducing the need for complex external control systems while maintaining reliability during power abnormalities.
Solution Approach 2:
The automatic transfer switch implements feedback mechanisms where detection circuitry continuously monitors power source status and provides feedback to the control logic. When abnormalities are detected (such as voltage drops or power loss), the feedback signal triggers automatic switching to the alternate power source. This feedback-based control maintains reliability while using relatively simple control circuitry compared to open-loop or manually-controlled systems.
Data Source
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AI summary
A power supply device and a control method for the same are disclosed. The method comprises: detecting (S502), in a case of powering by a first input power supply (20), whether there is an abnormal situation in the first input power supply; controlling (S503), when there is the abnormal situation in the first input power supply, a first access point of a first relay (S1) and a third access point of the first relay to be disconnected, a second access point of the first relay and a fourth access point of the first relay to be disconnected, a common access point of a third relay (S3) and a second access point of the third relay to be connected, a common access point of a fourth relay (S4) and a second access point of the fourth relay to be connected, a first access point of a second relay (S2) and a third access point of the second relay to be connected, and a second access point of the second relay and a fourth access point of the second relay to be connected. Through the present disclosure, the problem in the related technology that the adoption of a dual redundant power supply mode in which two sets of power supply devices need to be provided results in a higher cost is solved.