Integrated UPS Docking Station for Smart Load Shedding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current docking stations and UPS systems are not integrated, leading to inefficiencies such as increased wear and tear on UPS components, reduced run time, and lack of communication between the two systems, resulting in inefficient power distribution during emergencies.
Innovation Solution
An integrated docking station and UPS system with a housing containing separate compartments for docking station and UPS circuitry, battery modules, and a controller to coordinate functions, allowing for smart shutdown, load shedding, and remote management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If UPS systems and docking stations are used separately or on an ad-hoc basis, then the docking station can be connected to a protected power port of a UPS system, but this increases wear and tear on UPS components, reduces run time, and the systems cannot communicate about emergency situations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the UPS system and docking station into a single integrated device housing. The UPS circuitry, docking station circuitry, and battery modules are all enclosed within the same housing, allowing direct communication and coordinated operation. This integration eliminates the need for separate connections and enables the systems to work together as a unified power management solution.
2Ease of operation
If a UPS system powers a docking station and all peripherals plugged into the docking station, then power is provided to all devices, but this increases wear and tear on UPS components and reduces run time during emergencies
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated system divides power distribution into separate controllable segments or rails. Each port on the docking station can be independently controlled through its own power rail, allowing the system to selectively power only critical devices during emergencies. This segmentation enables intelligent power management where non-critical peripherals can be powered down while maintaining power to essential equipment, thereby extending UPS run time.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts power distribution based on real-time conditions. The controller can modify which ports receive power depending on battery charge levels, emergency status, and device priorities. This dynamic power management allows the system to transition from powering all devices during normal operation to selectively powering only critical devices during emergencies, optimizing run time.
3Extent of automation
If the software logic associated with the docking station and mobile computing device is unaware of emergency situations, then the system operates normally, but this prevents intelligent shutdown or power management during power outages
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated system implements continuous feedback loops between the UPS circuitry, docking station circuitry, and controller. The controller monitors battery charge levels, power status, and device states in real-time. When an emergency condition is detected (such as low battery or power loss), the controller automatically initiates appropriate actions such as notifying connected devices, shutting down peripherals in a controlled sequence, or activating backup power sources. This feedback mechanism ensures that all software logic remains informed of emergency situations and can respond appropriately.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention is directed to a docking station system. The docking station system includes a housing that is constructed from outer walls. The housing defines a first compartment, a second compartment, and a third compartment. The docking station system further includes docking station circuitry disposed in the first compartment, one or more battery modules disposed in the second compartment, and uninterruptible power supply (UPS) circuitry disposed in the third compartment. The aforementioned UPS circuitry and docking station circuitry cooperate to enable certain functionalities. The certain functionalities can be one or more of smart shutdown, load shedding, or remote management functions.