UPS Isolated Interface for Variable Power Sources
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing UPS systems face reliability and robustness issues when coupled with variably available renewable power sources, such as solar or wind, due to the potential failure of these sources impacting the DC link bus and system output.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a UPS system with a variably available power source interface circuit, including converters and a control circuit that selectively transfers power between AC and renewable sources, ensuring isolation and efficient power management between the variably available power source and the DC bus, allowing for seamless power transfer from renewable sources to both the load and the AC power source.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If a variably available power source is coupled to the DC link of a UPS system, then supplemental power is provided, but the reliability and robustness of the system deteriorates due to potential failure of the renewable source impacting the DC link bus and system output
Solution Approach 1:
A third converter circuit is introduced as an intermediary component between the variably available power source and the load/AC power source. This converter circuit isolates the DC link bus from direct exposure to renewable source failures, allowing the UPS system to maintain reliability while accepting supplemental power from variable sources.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a third converter circuit is added to interface with the variably available power source, then power transfer flexibility is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The third converter circuit is designed to perform multiple functions: it can transfer power from the variably available power source to the load, transfer power to the AC power source, and provide isolation protection. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional dedicated circuits for each function.
3Productivity
If the UPS system selectively transfers power from multiple sources, then power management efficiency is improved, but the control system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control circuit incorporates feedback mechanisms to monitor the status of multiple power sources (AC power source, variably available power source, and load requirements) and automatically adjusts power transfer paths to optimize efficiency while maintaining system stability.
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
Enhances the robustness and reliability of UPS systems by providing a stable power supply even when primary AC sources fail, utilizing variably available power sources effectively and maintaining system efficiency through intelligent power management.
Implementation Method 1
a first converter circuit coupled to the first port, a second converter circuit coupled to the second port and a DC bus coupling the first converter circuit to the second converter circuit
Data Source
AI summary
An uninterruptible power supply (UPS) system includes a first port configured to be coupled to an AC power source and a second port configured to be coupled to a load. The system also includes a UPS circuit including a first converter circuit coupled to the first port, a second converter circuit coupled to the second port and a DC bus coupling the first converter circuit to the second converter circuit and configured to be coupled to an auxiliary power source and a third converter circuit coupled to the second port and configured to receive power from a variably available power source. The system further includes a control circuit operatively associated with the UPS circuit and the third converter circuit and configured to cooperatively control the UPS circuit and the third converter circuit to selectively transfer power to the load from the AC power source and the variably available power source and from the variably available power source to the AC power source.