UPS Module Disconnection via External Switch Segmentation

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing uninterruptible power supplies require complete shutdown of all modules to maintain or replace a single module, disrupting power supply and complicating maintenance processes.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating a disconnection module with housed disconnection switches that allow individual disconnection of each uninterruptible power supply module, enabling maintenance and replacement without stopping power supply to other modules, using connection and relay wiring with laminated bus bars for efficient disconnection and reconnection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a switch is provided inside each uninterruptible power supply module to disconnect the AC input power supply from the power converter, then each module can be individually disconnected, but power cannot be completely removed from the module and voltage remains inside the module

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveIndividual module disconnection capabilityVSAvoidComplete power removal for maintenance safety
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The disconnection switch is extracted from the uninterruptible power supply module and placed in a separate location. This allows the switch to be operated independently without requiring the module to be completely isolated, enabling safe maintenance while keeping other modules operational.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The disconnection function is segmented from the power supply module itself. The switch is positioned externally to control power flow to individual modules, allowing independent operation and maintenance without affecting the entire system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of repair

If power supply is stopped completely to maintain or replace a switch inside a module, then maintenance can be performed safely, but power supply from all uninterruptible power supply modules must be stopped

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveSwitch maintenance accessibilityVSAvoidPower supply continuity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of repairVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system is segmented into independent controllable modules with external switch control. This allows maintenance of one module's switch without stopping power supply to other modules, maintaining system productivity while enabling necessary repairs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

An external disconnection switch acts as an intermediary between the AC power supply and individual modules. This mediator allows controlled disconnection for maintenance while preserving power flow to the rest of the system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If the switch is provided inside each uninterruptible power supply module, then individual disconnection is possible, but maintenance requires stopping all modules which increases downtime

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveIndividual module control flexibilityVSAvoidSystem downtime during maintenance
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The disconnection switch is taken out from within the module and positioned externally. This extraction allows maintenance personnel to access and service the switch without shutting down the entire system, significantly reducing downtime while preserving individual module control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The system transitions from a static configuration where module control is fixed to a dynamic configuration where external switches can independently control power flow to individual modules, enabling maintenance without system shutdown.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS11695296B2Uninterruptible power supply
Publication Date: 2023.07.04 FUJI ELECTRIC CO LTD
  • US11695296B2 patent drawing
  • US11695296B2 patent drawing
  • US11695296B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An uninterruptible power supply includes a plurality of uninterruptible power supply modules each including a power converter, an input/output module that outputs power converted by the power converter to an outside of the uninterruptible power supply, and a disconnection module including a housing that houses disconnection switches that electrically disconnect each of the plurality of uninterruptible power supply modules individually.