UPS Integrating Solar Mains Battery Power
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current UPS units face inefficiencies due to direct conversion from AC to DC and back, leading to energy loss, and lack integration of auxiliary power sources for enhanced reliability and cost-effectiveness.
Innovation Solution
A UPS unit that integrates mains, battery, and solar panel power sources, using a power step-up means with switching capabilities for power factor correction and double conversion, and an inverter for efficient energy distribution, with a bypass circuit for safety and energy assistance from solar panels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If UPS units perform double conversion from AC to DC and back to AC, then power supply continuity is ensured, but energy efficiency deteriorates due to conversion losses
Solution Approach 1:
The power conversion process is segmented into two independent paths: a direct AC-AC pass-through path for normal operation, and a battery conversion path for backup. The first converter operates only when needed, rather than continuously converting AC to DC and back, reducing energy loss while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary charging of the battery from the mains during normal operation, so that when mains power fails, the pre-charged battery can immediately take over without interruption. This eliminates the need for continuous conversion while ensuring power continuity.
2Device complexity
If UPS units use only mains and battery power sources, then system simplicity is maintained, but adaptability deteriorates due to lack of auxiliary power options
Solution Approach 1:
The second converter is designed with multi-functionality: it can accept input from either the mains or the battery, and can charge the battery from either source. This universal design allows the system to adapt to different power source configurations without requiring additional complex circuitry, thereby improving adaptability while maintaining relative simplicity.
3Loss of energy
If UPS units operate without auxiliary power assistance, then operational cost is reduced, but energy efficiency deteriorates due to continuous battery discharge
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit continuously monitors the state of charge of the battery and the availability of mains power, and dynamically controls the operation of the converters. When mains power is available and battery charge is sufficient, the system stops battery discharge and uses mains power directly. When battery charge is low, it automatically recharges from mains. This feedback control optimizes energy usage, reducing battery consumption and operational costs.
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
The solution achieves energy savings and reliability by prioritizing solar panel power, with mains or battery support, reducing energy loss and operational costs while ensuring uninterrupted power supply.
Implementation Method 1
at least one solar panel (10), which can release solar energy for directly powering a load or for assisting the power voltage
Implementation Method 2
power step-up means (11), which transform the electrical energy from the battery
Data Source
AI summary
UPS unit comprising power step-up means connected to the power mains and conversion means able to produce an AC output voltage, battery supply means being connectable, by switching means, to said power step-up means, whose peculiar aspect is that it comprises at least one additional power supply source, connected to power step-up means, connected in turn to said conversion means, said additional power supply source being able to power the downstream loads of said UPS unit, when a first power threshold pre-set in said power step-up means of said additional power supply source is reached, said additional power supply being able to be integrated by said power mains or said battery.