Redundant Power Supply Architecture for Computer Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users face the dilemma of either purchasing a computer system with redundant power supply capabilities they may not need or later having to buy expensive additional components to add redundancy, leading to unnecessary costs in both scenarios.
Innovation Solution
A computer system architecture featuring a system board with a direct connection for a primary power supply unit and an expansion board with a secondary power supply unit, allowing for optional redundant power supply configuration without increasing the system board's size or complexity, enabling hot-swapping of power units and using passive components on the expansion board.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a system board with direct connections for multiple power supply units is designed, then redundant power supply capability is achieved, but the system board size and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the power supply connection architecture into two segments: the system board handles only the primary power supply unit (PSU1) directly, while the expansion board handles the secondary power supply unit (PSU2) and its connection to the system board. This segmentation prevents the system board from becoming complex while still enabling redundant power supply capability through the expansion board's involvement.
2Reliability
If a system board with direct connections for multiple power supply units is designed, then redundant power supply capability is achieved, but the system board area increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the physical layout by placing the primary power supply connector on the system board and the secondary power supply connector on the expansion board. This segmentation allows the system board to maintain a compact area while the expansion board accommodates the additional connector space requirements for redundant power supply functionality.
3Reliability
If additional components are added later to enable redundant power supply, then redundant power supply capability is achieved, but additional expensive components must be purchased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates the circuitry and control logic for redundant power supply management directly into the system board during initial manufacturing, along with the necessary connectors and interfaces. This preliminary action ensures that when a user later adds a second power supply unit via the expansion board, no additional expensive components are needed - the system board is already prepared to support redundant power supply operation.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a computer system, comprising a chassis, a system board, which is arranged in the chassis, and a first power supply unit, which is directly connected to the system board via at least one first plug connector. Furthermore, the computer system comprises an expansion board, which is arranged in the chassis and connected to the system board via at least one second plug connector. Furthermore, the computer system comprises a second power supply unit, which is directly connected to the expansion board via at least one third plug connector, and a circuit, which is arranged on the system board, wherein the circuit is connected to the at least one first plug connector and the at least one second plug connector and is configured to enable a power supply of the computer system selectively by the first power supply unit and/or the second power supply unit.