UPS-PDU Backup Power for CT Cooling During Utility Outages
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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 to cool down critical components like X-ray sources and tubes to prevent damage and extend their lifespan.
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 during normal operation, then the system operates efficiently with full power, but the system becomes vulnerable to damage during power outages
Solution Approach 1:
The UPS system is pre-configured and charged before power outages occur, enabling it to immediately take over and power the cooling system when the main power source fails, thus protecting components without requiring complex real-time decision-making circuits
Solution Approach 2:
The UPS acts as an intermediary power source between the main power source and the cooling system, providing a buffer that isolates the cooling system from power fluctuations and outages while maintaining system simplicity
2Reliability
If the UPS powers both AC and HVDC loads simultaneously, then complete backup power is provided, but the voltage matching becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The backup power system is segmented into two independent paths: one for AC loads (direct UPS output) and one for HVDC loads (UPS through autotransformer and AC/DC converter). This segmentation simplifies the voltage conversion requirements for each path while ensuring complete backup coverage
Solution Approach 2:
The UPS system is designed to serve multiple functions: directly powering AC loads, transforming voltage for HVDC loads, and providing isolated power during outages. This multi-functionality is achieved through standardized interfaces that simplify the overall system architecture
3Reliability
If the system switches to UPS power during outage, then component cooling is maintained, but power transition timing must be precisely controlled
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms that monitor the status of the main power source and automatically trigger UPS engagement when power failure is detected, eliminating the need for complex timing control while ensuring seamless transition
Solution Approach 2:
The power switching control logic is merged with the existing UPS control system, allowing the UPS to manage both AC and HVDC load transitions through its existing control architecture, thereby avoiding additional complexity in the power distribution unit
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 outages, ensuring the safe cooling of critical components and extending their operational life.
Implementation Method 1
powering an output high voltage direct current (HVDC) load via passing current through an autotransformer to boost the voltage
Data Source
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.