Solid-State Transfer Switch for Zero-Interruption Power Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dual power supply transfer systems with ATS and UPS architectures suffer from long power-down durations, mechanical switch arcing, and inability to track phase differences, leading to inefficiencies and power interruptions.
Innovation Solution
A dual power supply transfer switch (SSATS) using solid-state switches (SS) and a compensation power supply module (AUX) to seamlessly switch between power supplies without mechanical contact, ensuring zero interruption and phase synchronization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If mechanical switch (ATS) is used for power supply switching, then the structure is simple, but the switching time is greater than 100 ms and arcing phenomenon occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical switch (ATS) with a solid-state switch (SS). The solid-state switch uses semiconductor devices instead of mechanical moving parts, eliminating the arcing phenomenon and reducing switching time to below 100 ms while maintaining structural simplicity through electronic control circuits.
2Reliability
If ATS and UPS architecture is used to maintain continuous power supply, then power continuity is achieved, but power-down duration may be up to 500 ms and power transfer efficiency is low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary synchronization of the auxiliary power supply (AUX) with the main power supply before switching is needed. The AUX is pre-charged and synchronized to the load's voltage and frequency requirements, so when switching occurs, power continuity is maintained without 500 ms power-down duration. The solid-state switch enables rapid transfer by having the auxiliary supply ready in advance.
3Device complexity
If mechanical switch is used for power supply switching, then the device is simple, but arcing phenomenon occurs during switching
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical switch with a solid-state switch that uses semiconductor devices (such as IGBTs or MOSFETs) to control power flow. This electronic switching mechanism eliminates the mechanical contact and arc generation, providing a contactless switching solution that maintains simplicity while removing the harmful arcing effect.
4Reliability
If ATS and UPS architecture is used, then power supply switching is achieved, but phase difference between power supplies cannot be tracked
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a control unit that continuously monitors and tracks the phase difference between the main power supply and auxiliary power supply. The control unit adjusts the auxiliary power supply's output phase to match the main supply, enabling precise phase synchronization and tracking capability that was missing in traditional ATS and UPS architectures.
Data Source
AI summary
A dual power supply transfer switch (SSATS) for switching between a first power supply (S1) and a second power supply (S2) to supply power to a load is provided, includes: a solid-state switch (SS); a mechanical switch (CTR); and a compensation power module (AUX). In the case that the S1 fails in supplying power to the load, the AUX uses the S2 to supply power to the load, and the output current of the S1 is reduced. After satisfying the turn off condition for the SS, the SS turns off the S1, the CTR turns off the S1 and turns on the S2. After the S2 is adjusted to synchronize with the phase of the output current of the S1, the SS turns on the S2 and the AUX stops outputting current. The SSATS provides advantages such as fast transfer, zero interruption, and short voltage sag time.