Power line carrier signal repeater and communication system

Abstract

The utility model discloses a power line carrier signal repeater and a communication system. The power line carrier signal repeater comprises a power supply assembly, a dual-mode processor, a carrier signal receiving assembly and a carrier signal sending assembly. The power supply assembly is electrically connected with the dual-mode processor and the carrier signal sending assembly. The carrier signal receiving assembly comprises a filter and an analog-to-digital conversion unit, the input end of the filter is connected with the low-voltage side of the power line transformer, and the output end of the filter is connected with the dual-mode processor through the analog-to-digital conversion unit; the carrier signal transmitting assembly comprises a digital-to-analog conversion unit and a power amplifier, the input end of the digital-to-analog conversion unit is connected with the dual-mode processor, and the output end of the digital-to-analog conversion unit is connected with the low-voltage side of the power line transformer through the power amplifier; and the dual-mode processor receives the power line carrier signal through the carrier signal receiving assembly, amplifies the power line carrier signal through the carrier signal transmitting assembly and then transmits the amplified power line carrier signal to the power line.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of power line carrier technology, and in particular to a power line carrier signal repeater and communication system. Background Technology

[0002] Power line communication (PLC) is a technology that uses power lines as the transmission medium for data communication and is widely used in smart grids, home automation, and remote meter reading. However, in practical applications, PLC faces many challenges, especially in terms of signal transmission distance, noise interference, and signal attenuation.

[0003] In existing technologies, power line carrier signals attenuate significantly with increasing distance during transmission, especially in low-voltage power lines where signal attenuation is more pronounced. This attenuation limits communication distance, making it difficult to meet the needs of long-distance communication. Furthermore, the power line environment is subject to significant noise interference, such as switching noise from electrical equipment and electromagnetic interference from the power lines themselves. This noise severely affects the transmission quality of the carrier signal, leading to communication failures or increased bit error rates. Inadequate signal processing capabilities are also a prominent issue in traditional solutions. The limited processing power of a single processor cannot efficiently handle complex signal processing requirements, especially in scenarios involving multi-node communication and large data volume transmission, resulting in poor performance. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this utility model embodiment is to provide a power line carrier signal repeater and communication system, which introduces a power amplifier to compensate for signal attenuation and extend the communication distance; filters out noise interference in the power line to improve the accuracy of signal reception; effectively solves the problems of signal attenuation and noise interference existing in the prior art, and improves the performance and reliability of the power line carrier communication system.

[0005] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, a first aspect of the present invention provides a power line carrier signal repeater and a communication system, including: a power supply component, a dual-mode processor, a carrier signal receiving component, and a carrier signal transmitting component;

[0006] The power supply component is electrically connected to the dual-mode processor and the carrier signal transmission component, respectively.

[0007] The carrier signal receiving component includes a filter and an analog-to-digital converter unit. The input end of the filter is connected to the low-voltage side of the power line transformer, and the output end of the filter is connected to the dual-mode processor through the analog-to-digital converter unit.

[0008] The carrier signal transmission component includes a digital-to-analog converter unit and a power amplifier. The input terminal of the digital-to-analog converter unit is connected to the dual-mode processor, and its output terminal is connected to the low-voltage side of the power line transformer through the power amplifier.

[0009] The dual-mode processor receives the power line carrier signal through the carrier signal receiving component, and then amplifies the power line carrier signal through the carrier signal transmitting component before sending it to the power line.

[0010] Furthermore, the power line carrier signal repeater also includes: a radio frequency component;

[0011] The dual-mode processor is connected to the radio frequency component via data communication.

[0012] The radio frequency component transmits data wirelessly with the radio frequency components of other power line carrier signal repeaters.

[0013] Furthermore, the antenna of the radio frequency component is a suction cup antenna.

[0014] Furthermore, the power supply assembly includes: an AC / DC unit, a first DC / DC unit, a second DC / DC unit, an energy storage capacitor, a linear regulator, and a boost converter;

[0015] The input terminal of the AC / DC unit is connected to the high-voltage side of the power line transformer, and the output terminal is connected to the input terminal of the power amplifier and the first DC / DC unit, respectively.

[0016] The output terminal of the first DC / DC unit is connected to the input terminal of the second DC / DC unit and the linear regulator, respectively.

[0017] The linear regulator, the energy storage capacitor, and the boost converter are connected in series in sequence, and the output terminal of the boost converter is connected to the input terminal of the power amplifier.

[0018] The output terminals of the first DC / DC unit and the second DC / DC unit are respectively connected to the dual-mode processor.

[0019] Furthermore, the AC / DC unit converts the 220V voltage on the high-voltage side of the power line transformer into a 12V voltage;

[0020] The first DC / DC unit converts 12V voltage to 3.3V voltage;

[0021] The second DC / DC unit converts the 3.3V voltage to a 1.1V voltage.

[0022] Furthermore, when the AC / DC unit is disconnected, the boost converter boosts the 2.7V voltage output by the energy storage capacitor to 12V and supplies power to the power amplifier.

[0023] Furthermore, the power line carrier signal repeater also includes: a 485 communication interface;

[0024] The dual-mode processor is connected to the 485 communication interface and transmits data with the 485 chip through the 485 communication interface.

[0025] Accordingly, a second aspect of the present invention provides a power line carrier communication system, including a central coordinator node, a plurality of site nodes, and at least one power line carrier signal repeater;

[0026] At least one of the power line carrier signal repeaters is disposed between two adjacent site nodes or between the central coordinator node and the site nodes;

[0027] One of the site nodes communicates with the central coordinator node or another site node via the power line carrier signal repeater.

[0028] The above-described technical solution of this utility model embodiment has the following beneficial technical effects:

[0029] 1. By introducing power line carrier signal repeaters, the attenuation problem of power line carrier signals in long-distance transmission is effectively solved. The repeaters are deployed between site nodes or between central coordinator nodes and site nodes, which can amplify and forward the signal, significantly extending the communication distance and improving the signal transmission quality. At the same time, the filters and power amplifiers in the repeaters further reduce noise interference and signal distortion, ensuring reliable data transmission in complex power line environments.

[0030] 2. Employing a dual-mode processor and RF components, the system supports both power line carrier communication and wireless communication, enabling it to flexibly respond to different communication needs. The RF components utilize suction cup antennas to achieve wireless data transmission between repeaters, providing a backup path for power line communication and enhancing the system's robustness.

[0031] 3. By introducing the 485 communication interface and the central coordinator node, centralized management and efficient coordination of multiple site nodes are achieved. The 485 communication interface supports long-distance, multi-point communication and is suitable for complex scenarios such as industrial automation and smart grids; the central coordinator node, as the core control unit of the system, can optimize network communication efficiency and realize centralized data processing. Attached Figure Description

[0032] Figure 1This is a schematic diagram of the power line carrier signal repeater architecture provided in this embodiment of the utility model;

[0033] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the power line carrier signal repeater circuit structure provided in this embodiment of the utility model;

[0034] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the power line carrier communication system connection provided in an embodiment of this utility model. Detailed Implementation

[0035] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this utility model clearer, the present utility model will be further described in detail below with reference to specific embodiments and accompanying drawings. It should be understood that these descriptions are merely exemplary and not intended to limit the scope of this utility model. Furthermore, descriptions of well-known structures and technologies are omitted in the following description to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the concept of this utility model.

[0036] Please refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The first aspect of this utility model provides a power line carrier signal repeater and communication system, including: a power supply component, a dual-mode processor, a carrier signal receiving component, and a carrier signal transmitting component; the power supply component is electrically connected to both the dual-mode processor and the carrier signal transmitting component; the carrier signal receiving component includes: a filter and an analog-to-digital converter (ADC), the input of the filter is connected to the low-voltage side of the power line transformer, and the output of the filter is connected to the dual-mode processor via the ADC; the carrier signal transmitting component includes: a digital-to-analog converter (DAC) and a power amplifier, the input of the DAC is connected to the dual-mode processor, and its output is connected to the low-voltage side of the power line transformer via the power amplifier; the dual-mode processor receives the power line carrier signal through the carrier signal receiving component, and amplifies the power line carrier signal through the carrier signal transmitting component before transmitting it to the power line.

[0037] The above solution compensates for signal attenuation and extends communication distance by introducing a power amplifier; it filters out noise interference in the power line to improve the accuracy of signal reception; it employs a dual-mode processor to enhance signal processing capabilities and meet the needs of complex communication scenarios; and it utilizes multiple voltage conversion units and energy storage capacitors in the power supply assembly to ensure stable operation of the equipment during power line voltage fluctuations or power outages. These technical features effectively solve the problems of signal attenuation, noise interference, insufficient processing capabilities, and unstable power supply in existing technologies, thereby improving the performance and reliability of power line carrier communication systems.

[0038] Furthermore, the power line carrier signal repeater also includes: a radio frequency (RF) component; a dual-mode processor that is connected to the RF component; and the RF component that transmits data wirelessly with the RF components of other power line carrier signal repeaters.

[0039] The introduction of radio frequency (RF) components enables repeaters not only to transmit carrier signals over power lines but also to transmit data with other repeaters wirelessly. This design greatly enhances the system's flexibility and coverage, especially in complex power line environments or scenarios where signal transmission is limited, where RF components provide an effective supplementary communication method.

[0040] Specifically, the dual-mode processor and the radio frequency (RF) component work together via data communication. The dual-mode processor processes the data acquired from the power line carrier signal receiving component and transmits the data that needs to be transmitted through the RF component. Simultaneously, the dual-mode processor can also receive data from the RF component and convert it into a carrier signal suitable for power line transmission. This bidirectional data processing capability allows the repeater to seamlessly switch between power line communication and wireless communication, ensuring the continuity and reliability of data transmission.

[0041] Furthermore, the radio frequency (RF) component of a power line carrier signal repeater can transmit data wirelessly with the RF components of other repeaters. This wireless communication method not only compensates for signal attenuation and noise interference problems in power line communication but also provides a backup communication path in the event of power line interruption or failure. Through wireless communication, repeaters can form a dynamic communication network, enabling multi-hop data transmission, thereby expanding communication coverage and improving system robustness.

[0042] The addition of radio frequency (RF) components broadens the application prospects of power line carrier signal repeaters in fields such as smart grids, industrial automation, and remote monitoring. For example, in smart grids, repeaters can achieve wireless communication with remote terminal devices through RF components, improving the efficiency of data acquisition and control. In industrial automation scenarios, RF components provide flexible and reliable solutions for communication between devices. In the future, with further development of wireless communication technology, the performance of RF components will be further improved, bringing more innovative applications and possibilities to power line carrier communication systems.

[0043] Furthermore, the antenna for the RF component is a suction cup antenna. In power line carrier repeaters, the application of suction cup antennas further enhances the performance of the RF components. Since power line equipment is typically installed outdoors or in industrial environments, the durability and interference immunity of the antenna are particularly important. The suction cup antenna's design allows it to withstand various harsh environments, such as high temperatures, humidity, or strong electromagnetic interference, thereby ensuring the stability and reliability of wireless communication. In addition, the adjustability of the suction cup antenna allows the antenna direction to be adjusted according to actual needs to optimize signal transmission.

[0044] Furthermore, the power supply assembly includes: an AC / DC unit, a first DC / DC unit, a second DC / DC unit, an energy storage capacitor, a linear regulator, and a boost converter; the input terminal of the AC / DC unit is connected to the high-voltage side of the power line transformer, and the output terminal is connected to the input terminal of the power amplifier and the first DC / DC unit, respectively; the output terminal of the first DC / DC unit is connected to the input terminal of the second DC / DC unit and the linear regulator, respectively; the linear regulator, the energy storage capacitor, and the boost converter are connected in series in sequence, and the output terminal of the boost converter is connected to the input terminal of the power amplifier; the output terminals of the first DC / DC unit and the second DC / DC unit are respectively connected to the dual-mode processor.

[0045] Specifically, the AC / DC unit converts the 220V voltage on the high-voltage side of the power line transformer to 12V; the first DC / DC unit converts the 12V voltage to 3.3V; and the second DC / DC unit converts the 3.3V voltage to 1.1V. Furthermore, when the AC / DC unit is open-circuited, the boost converter boosts the 2.7V voltage output from the energy storage capacitor to 12V and supplies power to the power amplifier.

[0046] The power supply is one of the core components of the power line carrier signal repeater, responsible for providing a stable and efficient power supply to the entire system. It includes: AC / DC unit, first DC / DC unit, second DC / DC unit, energy storage capacitor, linear regulator and boost converter. The above modules convert the AC power from the high-voltage side of the power line transformer into DC power suitable for the operation of each component of the repeater, and provide backup power support when the power line voltage fluctuates or is interrupted, ensuring the continuous operation of the system.

[0047] The AC / DC unit's input is connected to the high-voltage side of the power line transformer, responsible for converting the AC power (typically 220V) to DC power (typically 12V). This conversion process is the first step in the repeater's power supply, laying the foundation for subsequent voltage regulation and distribution. The AC / DC unit's output is connected to the power amplifier and the first DC / DC unit, ensuring that both high-power components (such as the power amplifier) ​​and low-power components (such as the processor) receive the necessary power. The first DC / DC unit further converts the 12V output from the AC / DC unit to 3.3V, supplying power to the dual-mode processor and other low-power components. The second DC / DC unit then converts the 3.3V to 1.1V to meet the ultra-low voltage requirements of the processor's core circuitry. This multi-stage voltage conversion design not only improves power efficiency but also ensures that each component operates at its optimal voltage, thereby enhancing the overall system performance and stability.

[0048] Furthermore, a linear regulator, energy storage capacitor, and boost converter are connected in series to form the repeater's backup power mechanism. The energy storage capacitor charges and stores energy when the power line voltage is normal; when the AC / DC unit malfunctions due to power line voltage fluctuations or power outages, the energy storage capacitor releases its stored energy, and the boost converter boosts the 2.7V voltage to 12V to continue powering the power amplifier. This design effectively avoids communication interruptions caused by power line faults, improving the system's reliability and robustness.

[0049] The multi-stage voltage conversion and backup power mechanism of the aforementioned power supply components provide significant performance advantages for the repeater. First, the multi-stage DC / DC conversion ensures that each component operates at its optimal voltage, reducing energy loss and heat generation. Second, the introduction of energy storage capacitors and boost converters provides additional power backup, enabling the system to continue operating even in the event of power line anomalies. Finally, the modular design of the power supply components facilitates maintenance and upgrades, reducing the overall operating cost of the system.

[0050] Furthermore, the power line carrier signal repeater also includes: a 485 communication interface; a dual-mode processor that is data-connected to the 485 communication interface, transmitting data with the 485 chip through the 485 communication interface. Through the 485 communication interface, the repeater can transmit data with other devices supporting the 485 protocol, thus providing a reliable wired communication method based on power line carrier communication. The dual-mode processor and the 485 communication interface work together through data connectivity. The dual-mode processor is responsible for processing data acquired from the power line carrier signal receiving component or radio frequency component and sending the data to be transmitted through the 485 communication interface. Simultaneously, the dual-mode processor can also receive data from the 485 communication interface and convert it into a carrier signal or wireless signal suitable for power line transmission. This bidirectional data processing capability allows the repeater to flexibly switch between multiple communication methods, ensuring the continuity and reliability of data transmission. The interference immunity of the 485 communication interface enables it to work stably in complex industrial environments, especially in scenarios with strong electromagnetic interference, where the 485 communication interface can effectively ensure the accuracy of data transmission; the 485 communication interface supports long-distance transmission (up to 1200 meters), which allows repeaters to cover a wider area and is suitable for large-scale deployment scenarios; the 485 communication interface supports multi-point communication, allowing multiple devices to transmit data through the same bus, thereby simplifying system wiring and reducing costs.

[0051] The addition of the RS-485 communication interface expands the application prospects of power line carrier signal repeaters in fields such as industrial automation, smart grids, and building control. For example, in industrial automation, repeaters can interact with devices such as PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers) and sensors via the RS-485 interface to achieve real-time monitoring and control of equipment status. In smart grids, the RS-485 interface can be used to connect electricity meters, power distribution equipment, etc., enabling centralized data acquisition and management. In building control systems, the RS-485 interface provides reliable communication support for lighting, air conditioning, security, and other equipment.

[0052] Accordingly, please refer to Figure 3 A second aspect of this utility model provides a power line carrier communication system, including a central coordinator node, a plurality of site nodes, and at least one power line carrier signal repeater; at least one power line carrier signal repeater is disposed between two adjacent site nodes or between the central coordinator node and a site node; a site node communicates with the central coordinator node or another site node through the power line carrier signal repeater.

[0053] like Figure 3 As shown, the distance between Dev1 and Dev2 is too far, and direct communication between them would be unreliable for the PLC, requiring a signal repeater for forwarding. Dev2 and Dev3 are separated by a phase line, making PLC communication almost impossible, and a signal repeater is needed for relaying. Communication between Dev3 and Dev4, and between Dev1 and Dev4, can also be achieved through signal repeaters.

[0054] The system consists of power line carrier signal repeaters, a central coordinator node, and several site nodes. The central coordinator node, as the core control unit, is responsible for coordinating and managing communication across the entire network; the site nodes are terminal devices distributed throughout the network, responsible for data acquisition and transmission; and the power line carrier signal repeaters act as communication relay devices, enhancing signal transmission capabilities and extending communication range. This layered architecture design enables the system to operate efficiently and stably, making it suitable for various complex application scenarios.

[0055] In power line carrier communication systems, at least one power line carrier signal repeater is deployed between two adjacent site nodes, or between a central coordinator node and site nodes. This deployment effectively solves the signal attenuation problem caused by long distances or environmental interference during power line carrier signal transmission. Through the repeater's signal amplification and forwarding functions, the communication distance between site nodes is extended, and communication quality is significantly improved. Furthermore, the deployment of repeaters enhances the system's flexibility and scalability, enabling the network to dynamically adjust according to actual needs. First, the deployment of repeaters significantly improves the system's communication range and coverage, meeting the requirements of large-scale network deployments. Second, the introduction of the central coordinator node provides centralized management and control capabilities, improving network operating efficiency and reliability. Finally, the collaborative communication between site nodes and repeaters allows the system to flexibly respond to various complex application scenarios.

[0056] This utility model aims to protect a power line carrier signal repeater and communication system. The power line carrier signal repeater includes: a power supply component, a dual-mode processor, a carrier signal receiving component, and a carrier signal transmitting component. The power supply component is electrically connected to both the dual-mode processor and the carrier signal transmitting component. The carrier signal receiving component includes: a filter and an analog-to-digital converter (ADC). The input of the filter is connected to the low-voltage side of the power line transformer, and the output of the filter is connected to the dual-mode processor via the ADC. The carrier signal transmitting component includes: a digital-to-analog converter (DAC) and a power amplifier. The input of the DAC is connected to the dual-mode processor, and its output is connected to the low-voltage side of the power line transformer via the power amplifier. The dual-mode processor receives the power line carrier signal through the carrier signal receiving component and amplifies the power line carrier signal before transmitting it to the power line. The above technical solution has the following advantages:

[0057] 1. By introducing power line carrier signal repeaters, the attenuation problem of power line carrier signals in long-distance transmission is effectively solved. The repeaters are deployed between site nodes or between central coordinator nodes and site nodes, which can amplify and forward the signal, significantly extending the communication distance and improving the signal transmission quality. At the same time, the filters and power amplifiers in the repeaters further reduce noise interference and signal distortion, ensuring reliable data transmission in complex power line environments.

[0058] 2. Employing a dual-mode processor and RF components, the system supports both power line carrier communication and wireless communication, enabling it to flexibly respond to different communication needs. The RF components utilize suction cup antennas to achieve wireless data transmission between repeaters, providing a backup path for power line communication and enhancing the system's robustness.

[0059] 3. By introducing the 485 communication interface and the central coordinator node, centralized management and efficient coordination of multiple site nodes are achieved. The 485 communication interface supports long-distance, multi-point communication and is suitable for complex scenarios such as industrial automation and smart grids; the central coordinator node, as the core control unit of the system, can optimize network communication efficiency and realize centralized data processing.

[0060] It should be understood that the specific embodiments described above are merely illustrative or explanatory of the principles of this utility model and do not constitute a limitation thereof. Therefore, any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made without departing from the spirit and scope of this utility model should be included within its protection scope. Furthermore, the appended claims are intended to cover all variations and modifications falling within the scope and boundaries of the appended claims, or equivalent forms of such scope and boundaries.

Claims

1. A power line carrier signal repeater, characterized in that, include: Power supply components, dual-mode processor, carrier signal receiving components, and carrier signal transmitting components; The power supply component is electrically connected to the dual-mode processor and the carrier signal transmission component, respectively. The carrier signal receiving component includes a filter and an analog-to-digital converter unit. The input end of the filter is connected to the low-voltage side of the power line transformer, and the output end of the filter is connected to the dual-mode processor through the analog-to-digital converter unit. The carrier signal transmission component includes a digital-to-analog converter unit and a power amplifier. The input terminal of the digital-to-analog converter unit is connected to the dual-mode processor, and its output terminal is connected to the low-voltage side of the power line transformer through the power amplifier. The dual-mode processor receives the power line carrier signal through the carrier signal receiving component, and then amplifies the power line carrier signal through the carrier signal transmitting component before sending it to the power line.

2. The power line carrier signal repeater according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: Radio frequency components; The dual-mode processor is connected to the radio frequency component via data communication. The radio frequency component transmits data wirelessly with the radio frequency components of other power line carrier signal repeaters.

3. The power line carrier signal repeater according to claim 2, characterized in that, The antenna of the radio frequency component is a suction cup antenna.

4. The power line carrier signal repeater according to claim 1, characterized in that, The power supply components include: an AC / DC unit, a first DC / DC unit, a second DC / DC unit, an energy storage capacitor, a linear regulator, and a boost converter; The input terminal of the AC / DC unit is connected to the high-voltage side of the power line transformer, and the output terminal is connected to the input terminal of the power amplifier and the first DC / DC unit, respectively. The output terminal of the first DC / DC unit is connected to the input terminal of the second DC / DC unit and the linear regulator, respectively. The linear regulator, the energy storage capacitor, and the boost converter are connected in series in sequence, and the output terminal of the boost converter is connected to the input terminal of the power amplifier. The output terminals of the first DC / DC unit and the second DC / DC unit are respectively connected to the dual-mode processor.

5. The power line carrier signal repeater according to claim 4, characterized in that, The AC / DC unit converts the 220V voltage on the high-voltage side of the power line transformer to 12V voltage; The first DC / DC unit converts 12V voltage to 3.3V voltage; The second DC / DC unit converts the 3.3V voltage to a 1.1V voltage.

6. The power line carrier signal repeater according to claim 4, characterized in that, When the AC / DC unit is disconnected, the boost converter boosts the 2.7V voltage output by the energy storage capacitor to 12V and supplies power to the power amplifier.

7. The power line carrier signal repeater according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, Also includes: 485 communication interface; The dual-mode processor is connected to the 485 communication interface and transmits data with the 485 chip through the 485 communication interface.

8. A power line carrier communication system, characterized in that, It includes a central coordinator node, several site nodes, and at least one power line carrier signal repeater as described in any one of claims 1-7; At least one of the power line carrier signal repeaters is disposed between two adjacent site nodes or between the central coordinator node and the site nodes; One of the site nodes communicates with the central coordinator node or another site node via the power line carrier signal repeater.

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