Method and apparatus for providing redundant power by connecting

Details Method and apparatus for providing redundant power by connecting Method and apparatus for providing redundant power by connecting

1998-10-30

2000-11-28

Gaffin, Jeffrey

Electrical transmission or interconnection systems

Plural supply circuits or sources

Substitute or emergency source

3951822, H02J 900

Patent

active

061539465

ABSTRACT:
A method and apparatus provide redundant power by connecting power supplies in a segment or ring. In a first embodiment, a redundant power supply is provided at the "top" of a redundant power segment, with one or more computer devices coupled "beneath" the redundant power supply. If the power supply of any device fails, that device "borrows" power from the device immediately upstream in the redundant power segment. If the power supply of the device immediately upstream in the redundant power segment no longer has sufficient capacity to power its own circuits, that device borrows power form the device immediately upstream from it. This process may continue until the power requirements of all devices are met by the excess capacities of all power supplies in devices upstream from the device with the failing power supply, or until the redundant power supply is reached. In essence, the present invention creates a "cascade effect" wherein each devices fulfills any power deficiency from the device immediately upstream. In a second embodiment of the invention, a plurality of devices are coupled into a ring to provide redundant power for each other. When a power supply in the ring fails, the excess capacities of the remaining power supplies provide power for all the devices. Accordingly, a redundant power supply is not required. In each embodiment, a network of diodes prevents a failed power supply from shorting out the remaining power supplies, while also allowing all devices to continue receiving power.

REFERENCES:
patent: 5745670 (1998-04-01), Linde

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