17987081. System and Method for Transitioning to Backup Power Pooling simplified abstract (Google LLC)

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System and Method for Transitioning to Backup Power Pooling

Organization Name

Google LLC

Inventor(s)

Sangsun Kim of San Jose CA (US)

Krishnanjan Gubba Ravikumar of Pullman WA (US)

System and Method for Transitioning to Backup Power Pooling - A simplified explanation of the abstract

This abstract first appeared for US patent application 17987081 titled 'System and Method for Transitioning to Backup Power Pooling

Simplified Explanation

The patent application describes a system and method for power pooling, where multiple backup power supplies are connected to a shared power line through transformers and controllers. The controllers synchronize the backup power supplies with the transformers and control the switch position based on whether the transformer is energized or not.

  • Shared power line with multiple backup power supplies connected through transformers
  • Controllers determine if transformers are energized and synchronize backup power supplies accordingly
  • Switch position controlled based on transformer status
  • Inrush current limiting scheme used to transition switch position

Potential Applications

The technology described in this patent application could be applied in various industries and settings where reliable power supply is crucial. Some potential applications include:

  • Data centers
  • Hospitals
  • Telecommunications facilities
  • Emergency response centers

Problems Solved

This technology addresses several issues related to power management and backup systems, including:

  • Ensuring seamless transition to backup power in case of a power outage
  • Preventing overload and damage to equipment during power surges
  • Optimizing power distribution and utilization in a shared system

Benefits

The system and method outlined in the patent application offer the following benefits:

  • Improved reliability and stability of power supply
  • Enhanced efficiency in managing backup power resources
  • Reduced risk of equipment damage and downtime due to power fluctuations

Potential Commercial Applications

With its potential to enhance power management and reliability, this technology could be valuable in various commercial applications, such as:

  • Energy infrastructure
  • Manufacturing facilities
  • Office buildings
  • Retail establishments

Possible Prior Art

One possible prior art related to this technology is the use of automatic transfer switches in power distribution systems to switch between primary and backup power sources. These switches are commonly used in critical facilities to ensure uninterrupted power supply.

Unanswered Questions

How does the synchronization process work between the backup power supplies and the transformers?

The patent application mentions that the controllers synchronize the backup power supplies with the transformers, but it does not provide detailed information on the specific mechanisms or protocols used for this synchronization process.

What is the inrush current limiting scheme mentioned in the patent application, and how does it prevent damage to the equipment?

The patent application refers to an inrush current limiting scheme used to transition the switch position, but it does not elaborate on how this scheme operates or how it helps in limiting inrush currents and protecting the equipment connected to the system.


Original Abstract Submitted

A system and method for power pooling, the system including a shared power line, a plurality of backup power supplies connected to the shared power line through respective transformers and one or more controllers configured to, for each respective backup power supply, after passage of a different respective predetermined amount of time, determine whether a transformer connected to the backup power supply is energized. In response to the transformer being energized, the controllers synchronize the backup power supply with the transformer and then set a switch positioned between the backup power supply and the transformer to a fully closed state. In response to the transformer not being energized, the controllers transition the switch from a fully open state to the fully closed state according to an inrush current limiting scheme.