Single AC/DC Converter UPS with Dual Source Switching
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional UPS systems are expensive and inefficient due to the need for two AC/DC conversion modules, which increase cost and space requirements, and are not suitable for low power applications.
Innovation Solution
A power supply system with a single controllable AC/DC conversion module and a circuit switching module, controlled by a control module that switches between two AC sources in case of failure, reducing the number of AC/DC conversion modules and overall system cost while maintaining reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If two AC/DC conversion modules are used in a redundant power supply system, then reliability is improved, but cost and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of two separate AC/DC conversion modules into a single shared module. The single AC/DC conversion module serves both AC sources, converting AC power to DC power that can be supplied to the load regardless of which AC source is active. This reduces the total number of conversion modules from two to one, directly addressing the contradiction between reliability and device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The single AC/DC conversion module is designed to perform multiple functions: it can convert AC power from either AC source 21a or AC source 21b to DC power for the load. The circuit switching module enables this universal functionality by directing power from either source through the single conversion module. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by allowing one module to replace what would traditionally require two separate modules.
2Reliability
If two AC/DC conversion modules are designed based on maximum power requirements, then power supply reliability is ensured, but system space and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the power conversion functionality for maximum power requirements into a single AC/DC conversion module. Instead of having two separate modules each sized for maximum power, one shared module handles the conversion for either source when needed. This reduces the total system space while maintaining the capability to supply maximum power when one AC source is active.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between AC sources using the circuit switching module, allowing the single AC/DC conversion module to operate at full capacity when needed. The dynamic switching capability ensures that the single module can handle maximum power requirements from either source without requiring two permanently sized modules, thereby reducing system space while maintaining reliability.
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 solution reduces the cost and space requirements of the power supply system while maintaining high reliability and efficiency, achieving lower power consumption and higher power density.
Implementation Method 1
a controllable AC/DC conversion module electrically coupled to the circuit switching module and configured to convert AC output from the circuit switching module into DC
Implementation Method 2
a subsequent stage power supply module electrically coupled to the controllable AC/DC conversion module and configured to convert the DC output from the controllable AC/DC conversion module into an electrical signal required by a load
Data Source
AI summary
A power supply system and a method for controlling the same are disclosed. The power supply system includes: a first AC source and a second AC source; a circuit switching module; a controllable AC/DC conversion module electrically coupled to the circuit switching module; a subsequent stage power supply module electrically coupled to the controllable AC/DC conversion module; and a control module electrically coupled to the circuit switching module and the controllable AC/DC conversion module, and when failure occurs in any one of the first AC source and the second AC source, configured to control the circuit switching module to switch to the other one of the first AC source and the second AC source which is in normal operation. By employing the power supply system and the method for controlling the same provided by the present application, the cost may be reduced and the reliability may be increased.