dualpowered

Dualpowered refers to devices or systems designed to operate from two independent energy sources, either of different types (for example chemical energy and electrical energy) or two separate feeds of the same type. The term is used across industries to describe configurations that provide redundancy, extended runtime, or flexibility.

Common implementations include hybrid electric vehicles that combine an internal combustion engine with a battery and electric motor; dual-power supplies in computing that switch between an AC mains source and a battery-backed UPS; and portable tools that can run on battery power or an external power adaptor. Some industrial systems pair a generator with a grid connection to maintain operation during outages.

Operational concept: a power management unit routes currents from the active source to the load and controls charging and discharging of secondary sources; in redundancy-based dual powered systems, one source acts as a backup; in hybrid systems, both sources may operate simultaneously or alternately depending on load, speed, and efficiency considerations.

Advantages include increased reliability and uninterrupted operation, extended runtime, and flexibility for use in environments with intermittent power. Disadvantages include higher cost, increased weight and complexity, potential energy losses in conversion, and the need for careful compatibility, safety, and thermal management.

See also: Hybrid vehicle, Uninterruptible power supply, Redundancy, Power management.