UPS-Autotransformer Backup Power for CT Cooling Loads
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Solution Overview
Problem
Medical imaging systems, such as CT imaging systems, face challenges during utility power outages, as they require continuous power for component cooling to prevent damage and extend the life of components like X-ray sources and X-ray tubes.
Innovation Solution
A power distribution unit (PDU) configured to receive power from both a main power source and an uninterruptible power supply (UPS), where the UPS directly powers AC loads and, via an autotransformer and AC/DC converter, powers high voltage direct current (HVDC) loads, ensuring continuous cooling even during power outages.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the main power source is used to power the CT imaging system, then the system operates normally with full power availability, but the system becomes vulnerable to damage during utility power outages
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a backup power system with UPS and generator that activates before the main power source fails completely. The system detects power quality degradation and switches to backup power in advance, cushioning the CT imaging system against the harmful effects of power outages and preventing component damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediate power supply devices (UPS and generator) between the utility power source and the CT imaging system. These intermediaries provide protective buffering, isolating the sensitive medical imaging equipment from power disturbances and outages.
2Loss of energy
If the CT imaging system is shut down immediately during a power outage, then power consumption is reduced, but critical components like the X-ray tube are damaged due to inadequate cooling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary cooling action by activating the backup power system immediately upon detecting a power outage, before the X-ray tube requires shutdown. This allows the cooling system to continue operating and maintain the tube temperature within safe parameters, preventing thermal damage while managing power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent ensures continuous cooling action by maintaining power supply to the cooling system during outages through the backup power infrastructure. The cooling function continues uninterrupted, preserving component reliability while the system manages overall power consumption through controlled operation modes.
3Reliability
If backup power is provided during power outages, then component cooling is maintained and reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the power supply system into distinct functional modules: main power input, UPS backup, generator backup, transfer switches, and control systems. This modular segmentation allows each component to be independently managed, maintained, and replaced, reducing overall system complexity despite the multiple backup layers.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intelligent transfer switches and control systems as intermediaries that automatically manage power transitions between utility, UPS, and generator sources. These intermediaries simplify operation by handling the complexity of power management automatically, requiring minimal user intervention while maintaining high component 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
This solution provides reliable backup power to medical imaging systems during utility power outages, ensuring the safe cooling of critical components and extending their lifespan.
Implementation Method 1
powering an output high voltage direct current (HVDC) load via passing current through an autotransformer to boost the voltage
Data Source
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Figure 3A
AI summary
Various methods and systems are provided for a power supply system. In one example, a method and system includes a power distribution unit (PDU) configured to receive power from a main power source and an uninterruptible power supply (UPS), wherein the UPS is configured to directly power an output alternating current (AC) load after the main power source in unavailable, and the UPS is further configured to power an output high voltage direct current (HVDC) load via passing current through an autotransformer to boost the voltage and an AC/DC converter.