UPS Module Segmentation for Controller Failure Resilience
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) face reliability issues when the controlling module fails, leading to interrupted or abnormal output voltage, which can damage the load or battery and result in safety events, and the use of additional controllers increases costs without significantly enhancing reliability.
Innovation Solution
The UPS system includes plural power modules and a controlling module that dynamically adjusts output voltage based on energy storage unit voltage, maintaining a constant voltage if the controlling module is abnormal, ensuring stable power delivery and preventing overcharging of the energy storage unit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single controller is used to control multiple power modules, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability deteriorates when the controller fails
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the power conversion function into multiple independent power modules (first power module, second power module, etc.), each capable of operating independently. This segmentation allows the system to maintain functionality even when one module or the controller fails, resolving the reliability issue while keeping the controller configuration simple.
Solution Approach 2:
Each power module is designed to autonomously regulate its own output based on feedback signals, without requiring constant active control from the controller. When the controller fails, the modules continue to operate in a self-regulating mode, maintaining system reliability without adding complex controller architecture.
2Reliability
If two controllers are used to increase reliability, then system reliability improves, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system prepares backup control capability within each power module itself, rather than adding a redundant main controller. Each module contains the necessary control logic to take over if the primary controller fails, providing reliability cushioning without increasing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Each power module is designed to perform multiple functions: normal controlled operation during healthy conditions and autonomous operation during controller failure. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate backup controllers while maintaining reliability.
3Ease of repair
If modular controllers are used for quick repair, then ease of repair improves, but reliability does not improve as output voltage remains abnormal
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the power conversion into independent modules that can operate autonomously. When a modular controller fails, the segmented architecture allows individual modules to continue operating with stable output voltage through their inherent self-regulation capability, unlike traditional modular controllers that require complete controller replacement.
4Productivity
If dynamic voltage adjustment is implemented, then power conversion efficiency improves, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements voltage feedback mechanisms where each power module monitors its own output voltage and automatically adjusts its operation accordingly. This feedback-based self-regulation achieves efficient power conversion without requiring complex centralized control mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
Each power module autonomously performs voltage regulation based on its own operating conditions and feedback signals, eliminating the need for complex external control systems while maintaining high conversion efficiency.
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 maintains stable power output even if the controlling module is abnormal, minimizing the risk of energy storage unit damage and enhancing the reliability of the UPS system by preventing overcharging, while avoiding the need for additional controllers and their associated costs.
Implementation Method 1
The power modules are electrically connected with the power source, the energy storage unit and the load for converting the input voltage into an output voltage
Implementation Method 2
The uninterruptible power supply is connected with an energy storage unit and a load
Data Source
AI summary
An uninterruptible power supply includes plural power modules and a controlling module. The power modules are electrically connected with a power source, an energy storage unit and a load for converting an input voltage into an output voltage. The controlling module is electrically connected with the plural power modules and the energy storage unit for detecting a storage voltage of the energy storage unit and dynamically adjusting the output voltage of the plural power modules according to the storage voltage of the energy storage unit. If the controlling module is abnormal, the magnitude of the output voltage is maintained at a constant voltage value.