Intelligent edge convergence system

Abstract

An intelligent integrated containment system is provided that includes a plurality of spaced edge convergent points positioned within a building. Each edge rendezvous point is located in an associated unique location within the building to provide services to the unique associated location. Each edge convergence point comprises an edge convergence switch and an intelligent control board (ICB). The edge convergence switch is coupled to a plurality of powered network devices that serve the associated unique location. The ICB is coupled to the edge convergence switch and a central power supply. The ICB is configured to manage power distribution and monitoring of the associated plurality of the powered network devices.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 512,241, filed July 6, 2023, which is identical in title to this application and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Background Technology

[0003] Buildings may incorporate distributed cabling systems to provide services and monitoring capabilities in different areas of the building. Examples of monitoring capabilities include fire sensors, humidity sensors, temperature sensors, CO2 sensors, etc. Examples of systems providing services to areas of the building include lighting, Wi-Fi access, and distributed antenna systems (DAS). DAS is typically used to provide enhanced cellular phone coverage in indoor environments, where signal attenuation due to building structure often results in insufficient coverage from outdoor cellular base stations. A DAS system typically consists of multiple radio antennas distributed throughout the building. Downlink radio signals from the base station are captured and distributed by cables to multiple radio antennas in the DAS, which then retransmit the signals within the building. Similarly, for cellular uplinks, distributed radio antennas capture uplink radio signals from user equipment such as mobile phones, and these signals are amplified and routed back to the base station receiver equipment via cables. In some implementations, electrical signals on conductive cables are used as RF or digital signals for distribution between radio antennas and base station equipment. In other implementations, optical signals carried on fiber optic cables are used for distribution between radio antennas and base station equipment.

[0004] A distributed hybrid cabling system running through a building provides data communication and power delivery to devices that perform service and monitoring functions in different areas of the building. Hybrid cabling includes fiber optic (or optical fiber) cables for data and copper cables for power and data transmission. Modern buildings benefit from monitoring power usage. Monitoring power usage allows the power system to direct power to the desired areas within the building and can also provide indications of potential problems in certain areas.

[0005] As will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading and understanding this specification for the reasons stated above and others as stated below, there is a need in the art for an effective and efficient method to monitor electrical usage and data connectivity within buildings. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The following invention is given by way of example and not by way of limitation. It is provided merely to help the reader understand some aspects of the described subject matter. An embodiment provides an intelligent edge aggregation system for distributing, monitoring, and managing power and data connections.

[0007] In one example, an intelligent edge aggregation system is provided, comprising multiple spaced-apart edge aggregation points. Each edge aggregation point is located in an associated unique location within a building to provide service to that unique associated location. Each edge aggregation point includes an edge aggregation switch and an ICB. The edge aggregation switch is coupled to multiple powered network devices providing service within the associated unique location. The ICB is coupled to the edge aggregation switch. The ICB is also coupled to a central power supply. The ICB is configured to manage the power distribution and monitoring of the associated multiple powered network devices.

[0008] In another example, a method is provided for defining end-to-end power in a data and voltage network within a building with an intelligent edge aggregation system. The method includes: identifying channels that power an ICB (Integrated Circuit Control Controller) at one of a plurality of edge aggregation points; using the ICB to identify powered network devices coupled to a port of at least one edge aggregation switch at the plurality of edge aggregation points; and using the ICB to manage data and power routing at the edge aggregation points based on the identified channels powering the ICB and the identified powered network devices coupled to the port of the at least one edge aggregation switch.

[0009] In yet another example, a method is provided for defining end-to-end data connections in data and voltage networks within a building with an intelligent edge aggregation system. The method includes: determining network switch information using communication from an ICB within the edge aggregation point; and determining connections between switch ports of at least one power distribution panel switch in the main equipment room and switch ports of at least one edge aggregation switch in the edge aggregation point. Attached Figure Description

[0010] The invention will be more readily understood when considered in light of the detailed description and the following figures, in which:

[0011] Figure 1 This is an illustration of an intelligent edge convergence system within a building according to an example aspect of the present invention.

[0012] Figure 2 This is an illustration of a floor plan of a building that includes multiple edge convergence points of an intelligent edge convergence system, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0013] Figure 3 This is a partial diagram illustrating the electrical connection through an edge convergence point according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0014] Figure 4This is a partial diagram illustrating a network connection through an edge convergence point according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0015] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for defining end-to-end power in a data and voltage network in a building having an intelligent edge aggregation system with edge aggregation points, according to an example aspect of the present invention.

[0016] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for defining an end-to-end data connection in a data and voltage network of a building having an intelligent edge aggregation system with edge aggregation points, according to an example aspect of the present invention.

[0017] By convention, the various described features are not necessarily drawn to scale, but are instead drawn to emphasize specific features relevant to the invention. Reference characters denote similar elements in all figures and text. Detailed Implementation

[0018] In the following detailed description, reference will be made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part thereof, and specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced are illustrated by way of example. These embodiments have been described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention, and it should be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Therefore, the following detailed description should not be construed as limiting, and the scope of the invention is defined only by the claims and their equivalents.

[0019] Embodiments of the present invention provide an intelligent edge aggregation system for distributing, monitoring, and managing power and data connections for information technology (IT) systems and operational technology (OT) devices. Embodiments of the present invention utilize distributed hybrid cabling comprising fiber optic cabling for transmitting data and copper cabling for delivering power and data to edge aggregation points. Power may originate from a central control unit located in a control room (equipment room, telecommunications room, etc.) within a building. In embodiments, each edge aggregation point is positioned to cover a specific area of ​​the building (provide service to that specific area). Edge aggregation points may be located in or above the ceiling, in or above the wall, and below the floor, etc. In one instance, the building is divided into distribution zones. Embodiments control the flow of data and power from each edge aggregation point to its associated distribution zone. Each edge aggregation point distributes power and data to powered network devices (IT and OT devices and systems) within its associated distribution zone.

[0020] refer to Figure 1The illustration provides an example of a building 101 with an intelligent edge convergence system 100. As shown, the intelligent edge convergence system 100 includes a plurality of spaced-apart edge convergence points 104. In this example, building 101 includes building controls 102 in an equipment room 105 or a telecommunications room. Figure 2 Draw Figure 1 Floor plan 200 of building 101. In this example, the fifth floor of building 101 is shown. Figure 2 As illustrated, distinct zones 220 are designated within building 101. Edge convergence points 104 cover (or serve) associated zones. For example, as illustrated, a first edge convergence point 104 (CP5-1) covers zone 220 on the fifth floor, and a second edge convergence point 104 (CP5-2) covers zone 220 on the fifth floor of building 101. Thus, each edge convergence point 104 has a defined unique location within building 101. Powered network devices (IT and OT equipment and systems) communicate with the associated edge convergence points 104 for power and data. Examples of powered network devices include, but are not limited to, light sensors and controls 202-1, temperature sensors and controls 202-2, image capture and image controls 202-3, WiFi access points 202-4, hardwired local computer systems 202-6, hardwired telephones 202-7, wireless communication access points 202-8 (such as DAS access points), etc. The power receiving network devices 202-1 to 202-8 can usually be referred to as 202.

[0021] In this example, the intelligent edge aggregation system 100 is an Internet of Things (IoT) system that collects and generates real-time and location-based data on power usage, network connectivity, environment, and sustainability that can be shared with remote locations. Each edge aggregation point 104 provides a unique dataset associated with a location (and its associated area) within building 101. Furthermore, in this embodiment, each edge aggregation point 104 is an OT and IT communication hub that provides power and data information to IT and OT devices and systems. The edge aggregation point 104 can transmit data to the powered network device 202 wirelessly or via wired means. Examples of wireless communication include communication using Bluetooth or WiFi.

[0022] The embodiments further allow for monitoring of power usage of the powered network device 202 and environmental conditions within each zone. In one example, power for supplying the powered network device 202 is provided by a central power supply 230 in the main equipment room 105. In other embodiments, the central power supply 230 is located at a remote location from the main equipment room 105. Power is distributed to edge convergence points 104 throughout the building 101 using a power backplane 240. In one embodiment, the power backplane 240 collects information about how much power will be supplied to each edge convergence point 104 and how much power will be distributed from the edge convergence point 104 to the associated powered network device 202 with the associated coverage area. This allows the building control 102 or another system controller at a remote location to monitor power usage throughout the building 101. Knowing the power usage throughout the building can be used to manage power usage or distribution from the building control 102. For example, the information can be used to change power delivery patterns. It also allows for efficiency-related metrics, such as how much power is lost in the cabling used to deliver power to the associated edge convergence point 104. Due to the length of the cabling, power loss and therefore the power delivered to edge convergence point 104 can vary. Further understanding of power usage at edge convergence point 104 provides insight into how power is used.

[0023] In this embodiment, each edge aggregation point 104 includes at least one switch. Figure 3 A partial view of an edge aggregation point 104 with multiple edge aggregation switches 312 is shown as an example. In this example, the edge aggregation switches 312 are Power over Ethernet (PoE) switches. Information from the edge aggregation switches 312 includes how many powered network devices 202 are connected to the edge aggregation point 104 and which ports 320 of each edge aggregation switch 312 are currently in use. Furthermore, in this example, each edge aggregation switch 312 is coupled to an associated power socket 321 to an Intelligent Control Board (ICB) 306. In one example, each edge aggregation switch 312 is coupled to a mounting rail and inserted into an associated power socket 321, which is part of the ICB 306.

[0024] In this example, information about the bandwidth utilization of each port 320 can also be obtained. When using at least one edge aggregation switch 312, the ICB 306 of each edge aggregation point 104 can determine the power usage of each powered network device 202. Furthermore, the main equipment room 105 may also include power distribution panel switches 310, such as... Figure 3As illustrated in the diagram. In this example, the power distribution panel switch 310 is a power distribution panel. When using the power distribution panel switch 310, the power used by each edge convergence point 104 can be determined. Therefore, the embodiment allows the determination of the power usage of each edge convergence point 104 and allows the powered network device 202 to receive power from each edge convergence point 104 at the signal distribution point in the main equipment room 105.

[0025] Figure 3 The power transmitter 315 of the central power supply 230 is further illustrated. Figure 3 The diagram also illustrates a four-level power connection link 308 between the power distribution panel switch 310 and the ICB 306 of the edge aggregation point 104. This four-level power connection link 308 generates a first power loss. A second power loss is generated by the Ethernet (PoE) / copper (CU) link between the edge aggregation switch 312 of the edge aggregation point 104 and the powered network device 202. Furthermore, the power transmitter 315 corresponds to the first power usage. The ICB 306 in the edge aggregation point 104 corresponds to the second power usage. Figure 3 In this example, the edge aggregation switch 312 corresponds to the third power use, and the powered network device 202 corresponds to the fourth power use.

[0026] The ICB 306 can communicate with the Power Supply Equipment (PSE) 304 in the edge aggregation point 104 to identify the channel that powers the ICB 306. In one example, this is accomplished by having the PSE 304 send a power test mode (on-off-on). The ICB 306 can manage the routing / power supply of power outlets within the edge aggregation point 104. In one example, when the edge aggregation switch 312 is connected to the powered network device 202 via port 320, the ICB 306 identifies the connected port 320 by receiving information directly from the switch 312. This information can be used to define the end-to-end power circuit between the PSE 304 and the terminal device 202 in the edge aggregation point 104, which shows the power usage and power loss at each connection point.

[0027] In examples, each ICB 306 includes any one or more of the following: processor 307, microprocessor, digital signal processor (DSP), application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or equivalent discrete or integrated logic circuit system. In some example embodiments, the controller may include multiple components, such as one or more microprocessors, one or more controllers, one or more DSPs, one or more ASICs, one or more FPGAs, and any combination of other discrete or integrated circuits. The functionality of the ICB 306 as defined herein may be embodied in software, firmware, hardware, or any combination thereof. The ICB 306 may include a memory 309 having computer-readable instructions that, when executed by the processor 307 of the ICB 306, provide the functionality of the ICB 306. The computer-readable instructions may be encoded within the memory 309. The memory 309 is one or more suitable non-transitory storage media, including any volatile, non-volatile, magnetic, optical or electrical media, such as, but not limited to, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), non-volatile RAM (NVRAM), electrically erasable programmable ROM (EEPROM), flash memory or any other storage media.

[0028] In one instance, the ICB 306 is configured to monitor the power consumption of each power outlet port 321 in the associated edge aggregation point 104. The ICB 306 is also capable of interacting with each edge aggregation switch 312 in the associated edge aggregation point 104. This interaction can be implemented, for example, using a command-line interface (CLI), application programming interface (API), or simple network management protocol (SNMP) interface. From these communication interfaces, power consumption data for each aggregation switch 312 can be obtained. In this instance, the ICB 306 monitors the power consumption of each power outlet 321 to determine the power connection between the power outlet 321 and a specific switch 312. In one instance, the power consumption data obtained by the ICB 306 includes the power consumption at a specific port 320 of each edge aggregation switch 312.

[0029] Figure 4 A partial diagram illustrating the network connections of edge aggregation point 104 is shown. In this example, a room switch 412 (a fiber optic switch in this example) in the main equipment room 105 is connected to a fiber optic distribution panel 410 via fiber optic cables. The room switch 412 includes multiple switch ports 411. The fiber optic distribution panel 410 is coupled to a fiber optic distribution module 406 in edge aggregation point 104 via fiber optic cables 408. The fiber optic distribution module 406 is coupled to an edge aggregation switch 312 (a PoE switch in this example). In this example, the PoE switch is coupled to at least one powered network device 202 via copper cables 305.

[0030] In this example, the ICB 306 communicates with network switches (such as network switches 312 and 412) to discover switch identification, switch brand and model, number and type of ports, link status of switch ports, Virtual LAN (VLAN) assignments, Power over Ethernet (PoE) usage on each port, and end devices connected to the switch ports. Using at least one of SNMP interface, CLI, and API, the ICB 306 in this embodiment communicates with switches 310 and 411 in the main equipment room 105 (telecommunications room) to discover connections between switch ports in the telecommunications room and switch ports in the edge aggregation point 104 to provide real-time connectivity information. The ICB 306 can trigger a Time Domain Reflectometer (TDR) test on the switch ports to check for the presence of end devices and obtain cable length information.

[0031] The ICB 306 can track data and PoE connections between switch ports and end devices. This information can be used to define the end-to-end data connection circuitry between switches 310 and 412 in the main equipment room 105 and end device 202.

[0032] In one instance, Figure 1The intelligent edge convergence system 100 may include a detachable power backplane, which includes an ICB 306 and an electronic lock. In addition to each ICB 306 associated with the edge convergence point 104 for managing power distribution, in this example, the ICB 306 may utilize sensors 334 to monitor and control the temperature inside the edge convergence point 104. Temperature control can be achieved by controlling the fan speed and fan spin efficiency of the fan 332 in the edge convergence point 104 to maintain appropriate operating conditions. The ICB 306 may utilize one or more sensors 340 discussed below to monitor the temperature, humidity, carbon dioxide, and moisture content outside the edge convergence point 104, and generate an alarm if environmental conditions exceed predefined limits. In one example, the ICB 306 monitors access to the intelligent edge convergence system 100 to enable the tracking and implementation of maintenance tasks. Furthermore, in this example, the network-addressable ICB 306 is used with a network interface (wired or wireless connection) for system configuration and with an application programming interface (API). Upon installation, each ICB306 is programmable with an associated edge aggregation point 104, including its identifier, IP address, indoor location coordinates (x, y, z), input cable ID, unique sequence ID, sequence ID for each switch, and receiver / transmitter serial number. When integrated with a building's digital twin, each edge aggregation point 104 can be automatically added to its 3D model / virtual replica using its indoor location coordinates, providing real-time location-based data on power usage, network connectivity, environment, and sustainability. A digital twin is a virtual replica of the physical building and all associated technical systems, devices, sensors, etc. Digital twin images can leverage combined data streams from individual building components to implement new services.

[0033] Other sensors 340 outside edge convergence point 104 can communicate with ICB 306 of edge convergence point 104 to monitor unoccupied spaces, such as spaces above ceiling tiles or within walls. Sensors 340 may include, but are not limited to, humidity sensors, temperature sensors, carbon dioxide sensors, air quality sensors, and other gas sensors. If data from one or more of the sensors indicates a problem, the associated ICB 306 can generate an alarm transmitted to the monitoring digital twin in the main equipment room or a remote location. Furthermore, one or more of the power-receiving network devices 202 can provide sensor information within their associated zones, which causes the associated ICB 306 to generate and transmit corresponding messages. Therefore, ICB 306 of edge convergence point 104 can provide real-time information to the digital twin of the building, referenced by the zone associated with the reporting ICB 306. As discussed above, this information may include power distribution information and alarms that provide up-to-date information in the digital twin.

[0034] In embodiments, the ICB 306 supports multiple modeling languages, enabling seamless integration with various cloud-based digital twin and Internet of Things (IoT) platforms, such as, but not limited to, Microsoft® Azure Digital Twins, Amazon IoT Twinmaker, Oracle IoT Digital TwinFramework, and WillowTwin™ from Willowwinc. For example, models in Azure Digital Twin and WillowTwin™ are defined using a JSON-like language called the Digital Twin Definition Language (DTDL), which describes the type of an entity based on its state characteristics, telemetry events, commands, components, and relationships. The modeling language enables the creation of “neural network” data structures, allowing digital twins to leverage advanced analytics, machine learning, and perform complex computations. When using a modeling language, the ICB 306 becomes part of the digital twin of a building and allows interaction with other models that are part of the same digital twin environment.

[0035] Figure 5 Flowchart 500 illustrates a method for defining end-to-end power in a data and voltage network within a building having an intelligent edge aggregation system 100. In this example, the method is provided as a series of sequential boxes. In other examples, the boxes may appear in different orders or even in parallel. Therefore, the embodiments are not limited to the order of the boxes in the example method illustrated in flowchart 500.

[0036] A method for defining end-to-end power in the data and voltage networks of a building with an intelligent edge aggregation system 100 includes, at block 502, identifying channels that power ICB 306 for edge aggregation point 104, one of a plurality of edge aggregation points. In one example, the identification of channels powering ICB 306 is accomplished using a power test pattern generated by the power supply equipment of edge aggregation point 104.

[0037] At block 504, a powered network device 202 is identified by an ICB 306, the powered network device being coupled to a port 320 of at least one edge aggregation switch 312 among a plurality of edge aggregation points 104. In one example, the ICB 306 identifies the powered network device 202 coupled to a port 320 of at least one edge aggregation switch 312 by receiving information directly from at least one edge aggregation switch 312.

[0038] At box 506, data and power routing at edge aggregation point 104 is managed. In this example, data and power routing is managed using ICB 306 based on the identified channels powering ICB 306 and the identified powered network devices 202 coupled to ports 320 of at least one edge aggregation switch 312. In one example, edge aggregation switch 312 is a PoE switch.

[0039] At box 508, power usage is determined. Power usage can be determined along the end-to-end power path from the main equipment room 105 to the powered network device 202. In this example, information obtained from a power test mode can be used to determine power usage. (See reference...) Figure 3 Examples of power usage along the end-to-end power path include: first power usage by the power transmitter 315 in the main equipment room, second power usage by the ICB 306, third power usage by the edge aggregation switch 312 (which may be a PoE switch), and fourth power usage by the associated powered network device 202.

[0040] Furthermore, at box 510, power losses along the end-to-end power path are determined. Examples of potential power losses are given... Figure 3 The first power loss may occur in the cable between power output port 311 and ICB 306 of edge aggregation point 104. The second power loss may occur between edge aggregation switch 312 and powered network device 202. Power usage and power loss at each connection point (e.g., each switch 310 and 312) can be determined at least in part by managing the switches and using power test modes provided by the power supply equipment of edge aggregation point 104.

[0041] At box 512, determined operational information, such as determined power usage and loss information, can be transmitted. In one example, the wireless transceiver 300 in edge convergence point 104 can be used to transmit power usage and loss information to a remote location, such as, but not limited to, a cloud-based server containing a digital twin of building 101. The remote location can use the information to determine power demand at a specific location within building 101. In another example, power usage and loss information can be transmitted to building controller 102 within building 101. Furthermore, in an example, a powered network device 202 configured to transmit data can be used to transmit usage and loss information to building controller 102 or a remote location.

[0042] exist Figure 6Flowchart 600 illustrates a method for defining end-to-end data connections in a data and voltage network within a building with edge convergence points. In this example, the method is provided as a series of sequential boxes. In other examples, the boxes may appear in different orders or even in parallel. Therefore, the embodiments are not limited to the order of the boxes in the example method illustrated in flowchart 600.

[0043] At box 602, network switch information is determined using communication from the Intelligent Control Board (ICB) 306 within the edge aggregation point 104. The switch information may include at least one of the following: switch name, switch brand, switch model, number of switch ports, type of switch ports, link status of switch ports, Virtual LAN (VLAN) allocation, PoE usage for each port, and powered network devices connected to the switch ports. In one example, network switch information is obtained by communicating with the network switch via the ICB 306.

[0044] At box 604, a connection is established between a switch port of at least one equipment room switch 412 in the main equipment room and a switch port of at least one edge aggregation point switch in at least one edge aggregation point 104. In one example, at least one equipment room switch 412 is a fiber optic switch. Furthermore, in one embodiment, at least one edge aggregation switch 312 is a Power over Ethernet (PoE) switch. Additionally, in one example, ICB 306 uses converged SNMP, API, or CLI to determine the connection between switch port 411 of at least one equipment room switch 412 in the main equipment room 105 and switch port 320 of at least one edge aggregation switch 312.

[0045] At box 606, a time-domain reflectometry (TDR) test is performed to determine the connection at at least one switch port 320 of the edge aggregation point 104, thereby determining the presence of the powered network device 202. At box 608, cable length information is also determined by the TDR test. Furthermore, at box 610, the discovered data connection and cable length information between switch port 411 of at least one equipment room switch 412 in the main equipment room 105 and switch port 320 of at least one edge aggregation switch 312 of the edge aggregation point 104 can be transmitted to a remote location.

[0046] The information can be used by a remote location to determine end-to-end connections within building 101. In another example, the information can be transmitted to a building controller 102 within building 101. Furthermore, in this example, a powered network device 202 configured to transmit data can be used to transmit information to a remote location.

[0047] Furthermore, in this example, connectivity information can be used to detect real-time connectivity changes between switch ports of at least one equipment room switch 412 in master equipment room 105 and switch ports of at least one edge aggregation point switch 312 in at least one edge aggregation point 104. This is illustrated in block 612. This can be accomplished by comparing connectivity information with a digital twin. Differences found in the comparison between connectivity information and the digital twin will indicate connectivity changes. Additionally, in one embodiment, at block 614, the digital twin is configured to update automatically upon detecting a connectivity change.

[0048] Example Implementation

[0049] Example 1 includes an intelligent edge aggregation system comprising multiple spaced-apart edge aggregation points. Each edge aggregation point is located in an associated unique location within a building to provide service to that unique associated location. Each edge aggregation point includes an edge aggregation switch and an ICB. The edge aggregation switch is coupled to multiple powered network devices providing service within the associated unique location. The ICB is coupled to the edge aggregation switch. The ICB is also coupled to a central power supply. The ICB is configured to manage the power distribution and monitoring of the associated multiple powered network devices.

[0050] Example 2 includes the intelligent edge aggregation system according to Example 1, wherein the ICB is further configured to identify each powered network device coupled to an edge aggregation switch of an associated edge aggregation point, and to manage the routing and power supply of each powered network device.

[0051] Example 3 includes the intelligent edge aggregation system according to Example 2, wherein the central power supply includes a power transmitter and a power distribution panel coupled to the power transmitter.

[0052] Example 4 includes an intelligent edge convergence system according to any one of Examples 1 to 3, wherein the plurality of powered network devices include at least one of information technology devices and operational technology devices.

[0053] Example 5 includes an intelligent edge convergence system according to any one of Examples 1 to 4, wherein a plurality of powered network devices include at least one of the following: a light sensor, a light control, a temperature sensor, a temperature control, an image capture device, an image control device, a hardwired telephone, a wireless communication access point, a local hardwired computer, and a WiFi access point.

[0054] Example 6 includes an intelligent edge aggregation system according to any one of Examples 1 to 5, further comprising a separable power backplane that couples power from a central power source to the associated ICB at the edge aggregation point.

[0055] Example 7 includes an intelligent edge convergence system according to any one of Examples 1 to 6, further wherein each edge convergence point is coupled to at least one powered network device using hybrid cabling, the hybrid cabling comprising optical cabling and copper cabling.

[0056] Example 8 includes an intelligent edge aggregation system according to any one of Examples 1 to 7, further wherein the edge aggregation switch at each edge aggregation point is a PoE switch that couples power to each of a plurality of powered network devices.

[0057] Example 9 includes an intelligent edge convergence system according to any one of Examples 1 to 8, further wherein each ICB is configured to monitor and control at least one of temperature, fan speed and fan spin efficiency to achieve the desired environmental conditions within the associated edge convergence point.

[0058] Example 10 includes an intelligent edge aggregation system according to any one of Examples 1 to 9, wherein each ICB is programmed with at least one of the following: an edge aggregation point identifier, an IP address, indoor location coordinates, an input cable identifier, a unique sequence identifier, a sequence identifier for each edge aggregation switch in the associated edge aggregation point, and a serial number for each receiver / transmitter in the associated edge aggregation point.

[0059] Example 11 includes an intelligent edge convergence system according to any one of Examples 1 to 10, wherein each ICB is configured to monitor at least one of the following: temperature, humidity, carbon dioxide, moisture content, and air quality within an associated unique location of the building.

[0060] Example 12 includes an intelligent edge convergence system according to any one of Examples 1 to 11, wherein the ICB is configured to determine operational and environmental information, the operational and environmental information including at least one of the following: network connectivity information, power distribution and usage information, power loss information, temperature information, humidity information, carbon dioxide information, and air quality, and the ICB is further configured to transmit the determined operational and environmental information to a remote location, whereby the operational and environmental information is automatically added to a building digital twin.

[0061] Example 13 includes a method for defining end-to-end power in a data and voltage network within a building with an intelligent edge aggregation system. The method includes: identifying channels that power an ICB (Integrated Circuit Block) at one of a plurality of edge aggregation points; using the ICB to identify powered network devices coupled to a port of at least one edge aggregation switch at the plurality of edge aggregation points; and using the ICB to manage data and power routing at the edge aggregation points based on the identified channels powering the ICB and the identified powered network devices coupled to the port of the at least one edge aggregation switch.

[0062] Example 14 includes the method according to Example 13, wherein the identification of the channel as ICB powered is accomplished using a power test mode generated by the power supply equipment of the edge aggregation point among a plurality of edge aggregation points.

[0063] Example 15 includes a method according to any one of Examples 13 to 14, wherein the ICB identifies a powered network device coupled to a port of at least one edge aggregation switch by receiving information directly from at least one edge aggregation switch.

[0064] Example 16 includes the method according to any one of Examples 13 to 15, which further includes determining at least one of power usage and power loss of defined end-to-end power in the data and voltage network at each connection point.

[0065] Example 17 includes the method according to Example 16, further comprising transmitting at least one of the determined power usage and power loss of the defined end-to-end power in the data and voltage network at each connection point to a remote location.

[0066] Example 18 includes a method for defining an end-to-end data connection in a data and voltage network in a building with an intelligent edge aggregation system, the method comprising: determining network switch information using communication from an ICB within the edge aggregation point; and determining a connection between a switch port of at least one power distribution panel switch in the main equipment room and a switch port of at least one edge aggregation switch in the edge aggregation point.

[0067] Example 19 includes the method according to Example 18, further comprising using at least one of a command-line interface (CLI), an application programming interface (API), or a simple network management protocol (SNMP) interface to determine the connection between a switch port of at least one switch in a device room and a switch port of at least one edge aggregation point switch.

[0068] Example 20 includes the method according to any one of Examples 18 to 19, which further includes performing a TDR test to determine the connection at the switch port of at least one aggregation switch, thereby determining the presence of a powered network device and cable length information.

[0069] Example 21 includes the method according to any one of Examples 18 to 20, wherein the switch information includes at least one of the following: switch identifier, switch brand, switch model, number of switch ports, type of switch ports, link status of switch ports, VLAN assignment, PoE usage for each port, and powered network devices connected to the switch ports.

[0070] Example 22 includes the method according to any one of Examples 18 to 21, wherein at least one edge aggregation point switch is a PoE switch.

[0071] Example 23 includes the method according to any one of Examples 18 to 22, further comprising transmitting the discovered connection between a switch port of at least one equipment room switch in the main equipment room and a switch port of at least one edge aggregation point switch in at least one edge aggregation point to a remote location.

[0072] Although specific embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, those skilled in the art will recognize that any arrangement calculated to achieve the same purpose may replace the specific embodiments shown. This application is intended to cover any modifications or variations of the invention. Therefore, it is clearly intended that the invention be limited only to the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An intelligent edge convergence system, comprising: Multiple spaced-out edge convergence points, each located in an associated unique location within the building to provide services to said unique associated location, each edge convergence point comprising: An edge aggregation switch coupled to multiple powered network devices providing services within the associated unique location; and An intelligent control board (ICB) is coupled to the edge aggregation switch and to a central power supply. The ICB is configured to manage the power distribution and monitoring of the associated plurality of powered network devices.

2. The intelligent edge aggregation system of claim 1, wherein the ICB is further configured to identify each powered network device coupled to the edge aggregation switch of the associated edge aggregation point, and to manage the routing and power supply of each powered network device.

3. The intelligent edge convergence system according to claim 2, wherein the central power supply comprises: Power transmitter; as well as A power distribution panel that couples the power transmitter.

4. The intelligent edge convergence system according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of powered network devices comprises at least one of information technology devices and operational technology devices.

5. The intelligent edge aggregation system according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of powered network devices comprises at least one of the following: a light sensor, a light control, an Internet of Things (IOU) sensor, a temperature control, an image capture device, an image control device, a telephone, a wireless communication access point, a local hardwired computer, and a WiFi access point.

6. The intelligent edge convergence system according to claim 1, further comprising: A separable power backplane that couples power from the central power source to the associated edge convergence point of the ICB.

7. The intelligent edge convergence system of claim 1, further wherein each edge convergence point is coupled to at least one powered network device using hybrid cabling, the hybrid cabling comprising optical cabling and copper cabling.

8. The intelligent edge aggregation system of claim 1, further wherein the edge aggregation switch at each edge aggregation point is a Power over Ethernet (PoE) switch that couples the power to each of the plurality of powered network devices.

9. The intelligent edge convergence system of claim 1, further wherein each ICB is configured to monitor and control at least one of temperature, fan speed, and fan spin efficiency to achieve the desired environmental conditions within the associated edge convergence point.

10. The intelligent edge aggregation system of claim 1, wherein each ICB is programmed with at least one of the following: an edge aggregation point identifier, an IP address, indoor location coordinates, an input cable identifier, a unique sequence identifier, a sequence identifier for each edge aggregation switch in the associated edge aggregation point, and a serial number for each receiver / transmitter in the associated edge aggregation point.

11. The intelligent edge convergence system of claim 1, wherein each ICB is configured to monitor at least one of the following: temperature, humidity, carbon dioxide, moisture content, and air quality within the associated unique location of the building.

12. The intelligent edge convergence system of claim 1, wherein the ICB is configured to determine operational and environmental information, the operational and environmental information including at least one of the following: network connectivity information, power distribution and usage information, power loss information, temperature information, humidity information, carbon dioxide information, and air quality information, and the ICB is further configured to transmit the determined operational and environmental information to a remote location, whereby the operational and environmental information is automatically added to a building digital twin.

13. A method for defining end-to-end power in a data and voltage network within a building with a smart edge aggregation system, the method comprising: Identify the channel that powers the Intelligent Control Board (ICB) of one of multiple edge aggregation points; The ICB is used to identify powered network devices coupled to a port of at least one edge aggregation switch among the plurality of edge aggregation points; as well as The ICB is used to manage the routing of data and power at the edge aggregation points among the plurality of edge aggregation points, based on the identified channels that power the ICB and the identified powered network devices coupled to the ports of the at least one edge aggregation switch.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein the channel identified as powered by the ICB is accomplished using a power test mode generated by the power supply equipment of the edge convergence points among the plurality of edge convergence points.

15. The method of claim 13, wherein the ICB identifies a powered network device coupled to a port of the at least one edge aggregation switch by receiving information directly from the at least one edge aggregation switch.

16. The method of claim 13, further comprising: Determine at least one of the defined end-to-end power usage and power loss at each connection point in the data and voltage network.

17. The method of claim 16, further comprising: Transmit at least one of the defined end-to-end power usage and power loss at each connection point in the data and voltage network to a remote location.

18. A method for defining an end-to-end data connection in a data and voltage network within a building with an intelligent edge aggregation system, the method comprising: Utilize communication from the Intelligent Control Board (ICB) within the edge aggregation point to determine network switch information; as well as Determine the connection between the switch port of at least one switch in the main equipment room and the switch port of at least one edge aggregation switch in the edge aggregation point.

19. The method of claim 18, further comprising: The connection between the switch port of the at least one switch in the device room and the switch port of the at least one edge aggregation point switch is determined using at least one command-line interface (CLI), application programming interface (API), or simple network management protocol (SNMP) interface.

20. The method of claim 18, further comprising: Perform a time-domain reflectometer (TDR) test to determine the connection at the switch port of at least one aggregation switch, thereby determining cable length information.

21. The method of claim 18, wherein the switch information includes at least one of the following: switch identifier, switch brand, switch model, number of switch ports, type of switch ports, link status of switch ports, virtual local area network (VLAN) allocation, Power over Ethernet (PoE) usage for each port, and powered network devices connected to the switch ports.

22. The method of claim 18, wherein the at least one edge aggregation point switch is a Power over Ethernet (PoE) switch.

23. The method of claim 18, further comprising: The discovered connection between the switch port of the at least one equipment room switch in the main equipment room and the switch port of the at least one edge aggregation point switch in the at least one edge aggregation point is transmitted to a remote location.

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