UPS Zero-Current Turn-Off for Arc-Free Disconnect Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) face high costs and maintenance due to arcing issues when disconnecting on-off control modules, which shortens their lifespan and requires regular replacement.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a controller that receives control signals to zero the current in the circuit before disconnecting the on-off control module, allowing for zero-current turn-off, thereby reducing losses and prolonging the module's lifespan, and enabling the use of lower-cost alternatives like fuses or isolating switches without anti-arcing functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional on-off control modules are used without zero-current control, then the module can be simply disconnected, but arcing occurs during turn-off which shortens lifespan and increases maintenance costs
Solution Approach 1:
The controller proactively detects the turn-off state of the on-off control module and提前 (in advance) adjusts the power supply state to zero current before the actual disconnection occurs. This preliminary action prevents arcing by ensuring current is already zero when the module disconnects, thereby extending lifespan without requiring complex anti-arcing components.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If circuit breakers or load switches with arc blowout function are used, then arcing is suppressed, but costs increase, volume increases, and maintenance is still required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the need for complex arc blowout functions from the on-off control module by implementing zero-current control at the power supply side. Instead of equipping the module itself with arc suppression capabilities (which会增加 volume and cost), the solution removes the harmful current before it reaches the disconnection point, allowing use of simpler, smaller modules.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller acts as an intermediary between the power supply and the on-off control module. It mediates the turn-off process by detecting the module's state and adjusting the power supply current accordingly, preventing direct arcing at the module terminals. This intermediary control eliminates the need for built-in arc blowout mechanisms.
3Reliability
If regular maintenance and replacement of on-off control modules are performed due to arcing, then reliability is maintained, but costs increase and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
By implementing preliminary zero-current control before disconnection, the system prevents arcing damage that would otherwise require maintenance. This proactive approach extends module lifespan significantly, reducing maintenance frequency and downtime, thereby improving overall system productivity while maintaining reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
This application provides an uninterruptible power supply. An input end of the uninterruptible power supply is connected to a power supply by using a first on-off control module. A controller of the uninterruptible power supply is configured to: after receiving a first control signal sent by the first on-off control module, control a current in a circuit connecting the uninterruptible power supply and the first on-off control module to be zero. An output end of the uninterruptible power supply is connected to a load by using a second on-off control module. A controller of the uninterruptible power supply is configured to: after receiving a second control signal sent by the second on-off control module, control the uninterruptible power supply to be turned off.