Scalable Modular Power System for Remote ISP Reliability
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Solution Overview
Problem
In underdeveloped and developing countries, local ISPs face challenges with unreliable energy sources for network components due to limited access to reliable electric grid power, leading to variable energy capacity and runtime demands, and existing power storage and distribution systems are expensive and difficult to scale.
Innovation Solution
A scalable and modular power system with interchangeable power supplies and battery chargers, including a cloud-enabled control circuit for monitoring and switching between power sources, providing adjustable outputs and prioritizing loads, and incorporating a Maximum Power Point Tracker (MPPT) circuit for efficient energy use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If local ISPs use a combination of individually unreliable energy sources to power network components, then the system can operate in remote locations without reliable electric grid power, but the overall reliability of power supply deteriorates due to inconsistent quality and variable energy capacity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple power sources (power supply, battery, solar panel) into a single integrated power system that manages them collectively. The power management circuit integrates control of multiple energy sources and loads, allowing the system to operate reliably in remote locations by merging individually unreliable sources into a coordinated whole.
Solution Approach 2:
The power management circuit performs multiple functions: it manages power from the power supply, charges the battery, interfaces with solar panels, and distributes power to various loads. This multi-functional approach allows a single system to handle diverse power sources and delivery requirements, improving both adaptability and reliability.
2Duration of action of moving object
If network components use local battery storage to satisfy availability demands, then the runtime capacity and availability improve, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The battery storage is segmented into multiple battery modules that can be independently managed. Each module has its own battery management circuit, allowing the system to scale runtime capacity by adding modules while maintaining manageable complexity through modular architecture. The power management circuit is also segmented into functional blocks for different tasks.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts its operation based on available energy and load requirements. The power management circuit can switch between different power sources and operational modes, and the battery modules can be dynamically added or removed to match runtime demands, allowing the system to adapt complexity to actual needs rather than being statically complex.
3Ease of repair
If the power system uses removable and interchangeable power supplies and battery chargers, then the ease of repair and maintenance improve, but the device complexity increases due to multiple configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply and battery charger are designed as universal, interchangeable modules that can perform multiple functions. The power supply can charge the battery and power loads, while the battery can also power loads directly. This universality simplifies repair by allowing any module to replace another, while the standardized interfaces prevent configuration complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The interchangeable modules use standardized connectors, voltage levels, and communication protocols, creating homogeneous interfaces across all components. This standardization ensures that replacement modules work immediately without complex configuration, as all modules speak the same technical language and use the same physical interfaces.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the system provides adjustable output power configurations for different loads, then the adaptability to various network components improves, but the device complexity and control requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The power distribution is segmented into multiple output circuits, each capable of independent configuration. The power management circuit is divided into functional blocks that can independently control different output parameters. This segmentation allows the system to provide multiple adjustable output configurations without requiring the entire system to be complex, as each segment handles a specific function.
Solution Approach 2:
The output power configurations are dynamically adjustable based on load requirements. The power management circuit can change voltage, current, and power levels in real-time to match the needs of different network components. This dynamic adaptability allows the system to maintain simplicity by only providing the exact power configuration needed at any given moment, rather than having fixed complex configurations for all possible scenarios.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system dynamically adapts to varying power demands, offering flexible runtime capacity and low start-up costs, ensuring reliable internet access by efficiently managing energy from multiple sources and reducing the complexity of spare parts and maintenance.
Implementation Method 1
the first battery is coupled to and configured to provide a second DC voltage to the common DC bus line during a second mode of operation
Implementation Method 2
In one example, the first battery charger includes a Maximum Power Point Tracker (MPPT) circuit
Data Source
AI summary
According to one aspect, embodiments of the invention provide a power system comprising an input power distribution circuit including a plurality of power connections, a first power supply coupled to a first power connection of the plurality of power connections, a scalable battery bank including at least a first battery module coupled to a second power connection of the plurality of power connections, the first battery module including a first battery and a first battery charger, the first battery charger and the first power supply being removable and interchangeable, and an output power distribution circuit coupled to the first power supply and the first battery and configured to provide output power derived from at least one of the first power supply and the first battery.