Redundant Power Supply Controller Failure Isolation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
In redundant power supply configurations within information handling systems, it is difficult to identify and isolate a failed power supply, leading to challenges in maintaining system reliability and efficiency due to increased power dissipation and complexity introduced by isolation devices like MOSFETs.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that utilize a controller to detect output voltage and current thresholds, disabling a failed power supply by determining if the output voltage exceeds a maximum threshold and the output current is not equal to zero, thereby isolating the faulty unit without the need for isolation devices like MOSFETs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If isolation devices like MOSFETs are used in redundant power supply configurations, then system reliability is improved by preventing failure propagation, but power dissipation increases and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes isolation devices (MOSFETs) from the redundant power supply configuration by implementing a controller that monitors output voltage and current to detect failures. The controller identifies failed power supplies through electrical parameter monitoring and disables them via control signals, eliminating the need for physical isolation devices while maintaining failure containment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a controller as an intermediary component that mediates between multiple power supplies and the system. The controller monitors electrical parameters (voltage and current) from each power supply and implements failure detection and disabling logic, replacing the need for isolation devices by acting as a central management intermediary.
2Reliability
If isolation devices like MOSFETs are used in redundant power supply configurations, then system reliability is improved by preventing failure propagation, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes isolation devices (MOSFETs) from the redundant power supply configuration by implementing a controller that monitors output voltage and current to detect failures. The controller identifies failed power supplies through electrical parameter monitoring and disables them via control signals, eliminating the need for physical isolation devices while maintaining failure containment.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller serves multiple functions: it monitors output voltage and current from multiple power supplies, detects failure conditions based on monitored parameters, identifies which specific power supply has failed, and disables the failed unit. This multi-functional approach replaces what would otherwise require separate isolation devices for each power supply connection.
3Loss of energy
If redundant power supplies are configured without isolation devices, then power dissipation is reduced and device complexity is reduced, but difficulty in detecting and measuring failed power supplies increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the controller continuously monitors output voltage and current from each power supply. The controller receives feedback signals representing these electrical parameters and uses them to determine failure conditions. When parameters exceed thresholds or exhibit abnormal patterns, the controller identifies the specific failed power supply and disables it through control signals.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces physical isolation devices (mechanical/electrical components like MOSFETs) with an electronic control system. The controller uses electrical parameter monitoring and digital logic to detect and respond to failures, substituting the need for physical isolation mechanisms with electronic detection and control methods.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of detecting and disabling a failed power supply in a redundant power supply system is disclosed. The method includes detecting, via a first controller, an output voltage and an output current of a first power supply providing power to the redundant power supply system. The first controller determines if the output voltage is greater than a maximum output voltage threshold and in response to determining that the output voltage is greater than the maximum output voltage threshold, the first controller determines if the output current is equal to zero. In response to determining that the output current is not equal to zero and not less than a common share bus current, the first power supply is disabled such that the first power supply does not provide power to the power supply system.