Storage Server Power Backup with Dynamic Module Sharing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional data storage systems with a power backup mechanism are inefficient as they require two power supply modules to operate, leading to wasted power and increased thermal energy generation due to excess capacity, resulting in higher costs and inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A data storage system with multiple power supply modules and programmable logic devices that share power consumption and generate power-related signals, allowing the system to operate efficiently by providing only the necessary power, with a control module monitoring power conditions to ensure system health.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If two power supply modules are used to provide full power capacity, then system reliability is improved, but power efficiency deteriorates due to excess capacity
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the power output of individual modules based on actual system needs. When one module fails, the remaining module(s) automatically increase their output to compensate, rather than operating at fixed full capacity. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to maintain reliability while reducing energy waste from excess capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of power supply modules from fixed full-capacity operation to variable output levels. Each module's power output is adjusted according to the number of functioning modules and total system demand, transforming the system from a static to a parameter-adaptive configuration that optimizes both reliability and efficiency.
2Power
If power supply modules operate at full capacity, then power output is sufficient, but thermal energy generation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts power module output levels based on actual demand and module count. When modules operate at reduced capacity (e.g., one module serving multiple bays), their thermal generation decreases proportionally, reducing the cooling burden while still meeting power demands through optimized distribution.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the power supply function across multiple modules, where each module serves a specific subset of storage bays. This segmentation allows individual modules to operate at lower, more efficient power levels rather than requiring each module to provide full system capacity, thereby reducing thermal energy generation per module.
3Power
If power supply modules are configured for full capacity output, then power requirements are met, but system cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes power supply modules universal and multi-functional, where each module can adapt its output to serve different numbers of storage bays. A single module configuration can serve either one bay at full capacity or multiple bays at reduced capacity, eliminating the need for specialized high-capacity modules and reducing overall system cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters to match actual demand, allowing standard power modules to replace expensive high-capacity modules. By adjusting output parameters rather than hardware capacity, the system achieves full power requirements at lower cost using conventional, more economical power supply components.
Data Source
AI summary
A data storage system with power backup mechanism includes a storage server, N pieces of power supply modules, a plurality of programmable logic devices and a control module. The storage server consumes M units of power in operation, and supports a storage bridge bay standard. The power supply modules respectively generate power for the storage server and a set of power-related signals, wherein the maximum power output of each of the power supply modules is equal to M/N−1 units. The programmable logic devices convert the power-related signals from the power supply modules to two sets of power condition signals. The control module monitors a power condition according to the power condition signals, thereby determining a power health condition of the storage server.