UPS-Timed Power Distribution for CT Tube Cooling During Outages
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Solution Overview
Problem
CT imaging systems face component damage due to unexpected power outages, which can occur during utility power outages, component failures, or when the main power source is unexpectedly cut off. These outages can disrupt the cooling routine of components like X-ray sources or X-ray tubes, leading to degradation and reduced useful life.
Innovation Solution
A power distribution system that includes a power distribution unit (PDU) and an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) is implemented. The UPS is configured with a timer to directly power AC loads immediately after the main power source becomes unavailable and to power HVDC loads after a time delay. This system ensures continuous power to critical components for cooling purposes during outages.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a main power source is used to power the CT imaging system, then normal operation is achieved, but the system is vulnerable to power outages that can damage components
Solution Approach 1:
The UPS system is pre-configured with a timer that automatically initiates the cooling sequence when power failure is detected. This preliminary action ensures that the X-ray tube begins cooling immediately without requiring manual intervention, protecting components from damage while maintaining system simplicity through automation.
Solution Approach 2:
The UPS system acts as an intermediary between the main power source and the CT imaging system components. It provides a buffer that detects power failures and mediates the transition to a controlled shutdown sequence, protecting components from abrupt power loss while managing the complexity through a dedicated intermediate device.
2Reliability
If power is cut off immediately during a power outage, then the UPS battery is preserved, but components like the X-ray tube may be damaged due to lack of cooling
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies partial action by providing power only to critical cooling functions rather than the entire system. The timer controls a sequential shutdown where non-essential loads are cut off first, while essential cooling continues until the X-ray tube reaches safe temperatures, then power is cut to preserve battery life.
Solution Approach 2:
The timer initiates a preliminary cooling phase immediately upon detecting power failure, ensuring the X-ray tube begins cooling before battery reserves are depleted. This preliminary action prioritizes component protection while managing energy consumption through a controlled sequence.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If the UPS powers all loads immediately during a power outage, then continuous operation is maintained, but the UPS battery depletes too quickly
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply system is segmented into priority levels. The timer controls a sequential power distribution sequence where critical cooling loads receive power first, followed by essential system functions, while non-essential loads are cut off. This segmentation extends battery life by ensuring continuous operation of only the most critical functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements periodic action through the timer-controlled sequential shutdown sequence. Power is supplied in stages: first to critical cooling functions, then to essential systems, with each stage lasting long enough to complete its function before the next stage activates. This periodic approach extends battery life while maintaining essential operations.
4Reliability
If a cooling routine is performed after power restoration, then component life is extended, but imaging productivity is reduced during the cooling period
Solution Approach 1:
The system converts the harmful effect of power outages into a beneficial controlled cooling sequence. When power fails, the timer initiates a managed shutdown that cools the X-ray tube using remaining battery power, then maintains this cooling state after power restoration. This converts the disruption of power failure into an opportunity for controlled component care, extending tube life while minimizing imaging downtime.
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). The UPS includes a timer and the UPS is configured to directly power an output alternating current (AC) load after the main power source in unavailable. The UPS is also configured to power an output high voltage direct current (HVDC) load after the main power source is unavailable for a time delay measured by the timer.