Single-pair Ethernet device, single-pair Ethernet system and method for installing a single-pair Ethernet system

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a single-pair Ethernet device according to claim 1, a single-pair Ethernet system according to claim 9 and a method for installing a single-pair Ethernet system according to claim 10.

[0002] It is already known from the prior art to form an internet network by connecting a router to one end of a main line, where the other end of the main line has a terminating resistor and several T-connectors are arranged on the main line, each with a stub cable leading to a device. This solution has the disadvantages that, due to the terminating resistor, no power or data transmission is possible over the internet network; furthermore, the stub cables must not exceed a length of 30 cm, which severely limits flexibility in the design of the internet network. Finally, expanding the internet network by simply connecting additional cables is not possible.From WO 2021 / 064008 A1, an Internet of Things module is already known with a first interface via which the module can be connected to a hybrid single-pair Ethernet line for data and / or command exchange and power supply. The module also has a voltage regulator for converting the first voltage applied to the first interface into a second voltage for powering the module. Furthermore, a controller for IP-based communication via the hybrid single-pair Ethernet line is provided. Additionally, a second interface is provided via which the module can be connected to a sensor and / or actuator for data, signal, and / or command exchange and power supply.

[0003] WO 2020 / 051340 A1 further discloses a single-pair Ethernet connector comprising an outer housing with an opening, a shielding sleeve that at least partially encloses the outer housing, and a contact carrier assembly configured to be inserted into the opening of the outer housing. The contact carrier assembly at least partially encloses at least two contacts, each with an insulation displacement contact (IDC). The contact carrier assembly also has an integrated wire cap that uses a hinge function to press the conductors of a cable into their respective IDCs.

[0004] WO 2018 / 049314 A1 also discloses a single-pair Ethernet device and includes a network consolidation point comprising a passive coupler and an active converter. The passive coupler is configured to connect a first backbone-connected, four-pair Ethernet cable to a four-pair Ethernet cable connected to a communication output. The active converter is configured to connect a second backbone-connected, four-pair Ethernet cable to a single-pair Ethernet cable. The active converter transforms data transmitted over the backbone-connected, four-pair Ethernet cable into data that can be transmitted over the single-pair Ethernet cable connected to the communication output.

[0005] A single-pair Ethernet device according to the preamble of claim 1 is disclosed in "Connectors for electrical and electronic equipment - Part 6: Detail specification for 2-way and 4-way (data / power), shielded, free and fixed connectors for power and data transmission with frequencies up to 600 MHz", IEC 63171-6:2020, IEC, 3, RUE DE VAREMBE, PO BOX 131, CH-1211 GENEVA 20, SWITZERLAND, January 20, 2020 (2020-01-20), pages 1-98, XP082028782, found on the Internet: URL: https: / / api.iec.ch / harmonized / publications / download / 743751 [accessed on 2020-01-20].

[0006] The object of the invention is, in particular but not limited to, providing a generic device with improved flexibility. This object is achieved according to the invention by the features of claims 1 and 10, while advantageous embodiments and further developments of the invention can be found in the dependent claims.

[0007] A single-pair Ethernet device is proposed, which is in particular part of a single-pair Ethernet system, comprising a first input contact and a second input contact, which are provided for electrical contacting a single-pair Ethernet input conductor pair, a first output contact and a second output contact, which are provided for electrical contacting a single-pair Ethernet output conductor pair, a first conductor path which, in at least one operating state, electrically connects the first input contact to the first output contact, and a second conductor path which, in the operating state, electrically connects the second input contact to the second output contact.

[0008] This design allows for flexible configuration of the single-pair Ethernet system. Advantageously, connecting the single-pair Ethernet input pair to the single-pair Ethernet output pair via the wiring paths minimizes the length of stub lines leading from the single-pair Ethernet pairs to devices. Particularly advantageous is the elimination of a terminating resistor, enabling simultaneous transmission of power and data through the single-pair Ethernet system. Furthermore, the single-pair Ethernet system can be easily adapted by adding and / or removing single-pair Ethernet devices.

[0009] It is conceivable that the single-pair Ethernet device constitutes the entire single-pair Ethernet system. The single-pair Ethernet system preferably comprises a distribution point, in particular a router and / or power distribution point, and at least one device. Advantageously, the single-pair Ethernet system has multiple connection points, each of which can be connected to and / or disconnected from a device. The device is preferably part of the single-pair Ethernet device. Preferably, the single-pair Ethernet device is designed to allow connection to and / or removal of the device from the rest of the single-pair Ethernet system. Particularly preferably, the single-pair Ethernet device forms at least part of the connection point; it is also conceivable that the single-pair Ethernet device constitutes the entire connection point.Alternatively, the single-pair Ethernet device can have a shorting plug and be designed to bridge connection points that are free of connected devices. The distributor is intended to supply the device with data and / or power. Advantageously, the single-pair Ethernet system is part of a smart home application, with the device particularly advantageously incorporating a sensor and / or actuator for the smart home application. It is conceivable that the single-pair Ethernet system is part of a data network, with the device potentially including a network chip. Preferably, the single-pair Ethernet system forms a network for supplying devices with data and / or power, which is advantageously installed, for example, in a household and particularly advantageously allows for the easy removal and connection of devices for power supply, for example, using standard plug connectors.

[0010] Preferably, the single-pair Ethernet system comprises a plurality of single-pair Ethernet input pairs and single-pair Ethernet output pairs, wherein at least one of the single-pair Ethernet input pairs is electrically connected to the distributor at one end. Advantageously, each device of the single-pair Ethernet system is electrically connected to a single-pair Ethernet input pair, which is arranged between the respective device and the distributor, and to a single-pair Ethernet output pair, which is arranged between the device and other devices of the single-pair Ethernet system. Particularly advantageously, the single-pair Ethernet system has at least one termination device that is free of any electrically conductive connections to a single-pair Ethernet output pair.Preferably, the connection device can be converted into a standard device by simply connecting a single-pair Ethernet output pair to the termination device. It is particularly advantageous for the devices to be connected in series, with the single-pair Ethernet output pair of a first device being identical to the single-pair Ethernet input pair of a second device immediately following the first. Specifically, the distributor is electrically connected to the device via the single-pair Ethernet input and output pairs in a daisy chain configuration.A "daisy chain" is understood to be a chain of electrical components, wherein an initial link of the chain, in this case the distributor, is electrically connected to a subsequent link of the chain, in this case the device, via all further links of the chain arranged between the initial link and the subsequent link, in particular further devices and / or short-circuit plugs.

[0011] The single-pair Ethernet input conductor pair and / or the single-pair Ethernet output conductor pair are advantageously configured as individual conductors of a two-core cable, preferably a two-core copper cable. Preferably, the single-pair Ethernet input conductor pair and the single-pair Ethernet output conductor pair are identical; alternatively, the single-pair Ethernet input conductor pair and the single-pair Ethernet output conductor pair could be different. Advantageously, the single-pair Ethernet input conductor pair and / or the single-pair Ethernet output conductor pair each have a daisy-chain connector at one end, in particular at both ends, via which the single-pair Ethernet input conductor pair and / or the single-pair Ethernet output conductor pair can be electrically connected to the distributor and / or the device and / or the short-circuit plug, in particular to form a daisy chain.Preferably, the daisy chain connector has four pins, each pair of which is electrically connected to one conductor of the single-pair Ethernet input pair or the single-pair Ethernet output pair. Alternatively, the daisy chain connector could have only two pins, each of which is electrically connected to one conductor of the single-pair Ethernet input pair or the single-pair Ethernet output pair.

[0012] The input and / or output contacts are advantageously configured as pins of at least one connector. Alternatively, the input and / or output contacts could be configured as open ends of conductor tracks, which could, for example, be arranged on a printed circuit board. In a further alternative embodiment, the input and / or output contacts could be integrally formed with the single-pair Ethernet input conductor pair and / or single-pair Ethernet output conductor pair. "Integrated" is understood to mean at least metallurgically bonded, such as by a soldering process, and particularly advantageously formed in one piece. Preferably, the input and / or output contacts are part of a bridge connector via which the device is electrically connected to the rest of a single-pair Ethernet system.Alternatively, the input and / or output contacts could be part of the shorting plug. Preferably, the bridge connector and the device are mounted on a printed circuit board; alternatively, the bridge connector could be designed as an adapter to which a connector can be attached, which is electrically connected to the device.

[0013] A "conductor path" is understood to be a structural unit that provides an electrically conductive connection between two points. For example, the conductor path could be integrally formed with a conductor of a cable and / or integrally with a conductor track of a printed circuit board and / or integrally with a pin of a connector, preferably a bridge connector. Advantageously, the entire conductor path is formed in one piece; alternatively, the conductor path could have several sub-units that are electrically connected, at least in the operating state.

[0014] The term "intended" should be understood to mean specifically designed and / or equipped. The fact that an object is intended for a specific function should be understood to mean that the object fulfills and / or performs this specific function in at least one application and / or operating state.

[0015] According to the invention, it is proposed that the first conductor path has a first extension, in particular a first branch, and the second conductor path has a second extension, in particular a second branch, wherein the extensions are provided for electrical connection to a device. It would also be conceivable for the conductor paths to have further extensions. The first extension preferably connects a remaining portion of the first conductor path and an input line electrically. The second extension preferably connects a remaining portion of the second conductor path and an output line electrically. Advantageously, the input line and the output line form a stub line, which electrically connects the device to the rest of the single-pair Ethernet system.The stub line could, for example, be configured as conductive traces on a printed circuit board electrically connected to the device, and / or as conductors in a cable electrically connected to the device, and / or as pins of an adapter connector to which a plug connector, electrically connected to the device, can be attached. This allows for a flexible design of the single-pair Ethernet system. Advantageously, the single-pair Ethernet system can be equipped with any number of extensions to electrically connect any number of devices to the distribution point in a daisy chain, which can have any number of linked chains and / or chain rings.

[0016] In an alternative embodiment, the first conductor path could be integrally formed with the single-pair Ethernet input conductor pair and / or the second conductor path could be integrally formed with the single-pair Ethernet output conductor pair. In this alternative embodiment, the input contacts and output contacts could each be formed as sections of the single-pair Ethernet input conductor pair and the single-pair Ethernet output conductor pair, respectively. Additionally, in this alternative embodiment, the conductor paths could be integrally formed with the pins of the chain connector. Preferably, in this alternative embodiment, the first conductor path electrically connects the first input contact, the first output contact, and a first pin of the chain connector.Particularly preferably, in this alternative embodiment, the second conductor path electrically connects the second input contact, the second output contact, and a second pin of the chain connector. Particularly preferably, in this alternative embodiment, the chain connector has two pins.

[0017] Furthermore, it is proposed that the single-pair Ethernet device comprises a printed circuit board (PCB) which includes at least one, and preferably both, of the transmission paths. Preferably, the first transmission path and / or the second transmission path has at least one open trace end on the PCB. In particular, the first transmission path and / or the second transmission path is configured as a portion of the PCB traces. Advantageously, the input and output contacts are configured as pins of the bridge connector. Alternatively, the input and output contacts could be configured as open trace ends on the PCB. It is also conceivable that the first transmission path and / or the second transmission path is entirely located on the PCB or within the bridge connector.Preferably, the first and / or second conductor path extends across a portion of the printed circuit board and a portion of the bridge connector. This improves the design of the single-pair Ethernet device. Advantageously, the stub length can be kept short.

[0018] Additionally, the circuit board could have at least one, and preferably both, of the conductor paths. In this configuration, the pins of the bridge connector are advantageously identical to the open conductor traces on the circuit board. This simplifies the design of the single-pair Ethernet device. It is also advantageous to eliminate the need for separate bridge connector pins that correspond to conductor traces on the circuit board.

[0019] Furthermore, it is proposed that the single-pair Ethernet device includes a bridge connector which has one, and preferably both, of the leads. It would be conceivable for the circuit board and the bridge connector to each have one of the leads; preferably, either the circuit board or the bridge connector has both leads. In an embodiment in which the circuit board and the bridge connector each have one of the leads, the first input contact and / or the first output contact is preferably configured as a pin of the bridge connector, and the second input contact and / or the second output contact is configured as an open trace end of the circuit board. Advantageously, the bridge connector has a housing within which the first lead and / or the second lead is arranged.Preferably, the first and / or second connection is designed as a section of the bridge connector's conductor tracks. This allows for improved design of the single-pair Ethernet device. Advantageously, the length of the stub lines can be kept short.

[0020] Preferably, the bridge connector has at least one, and preferably both, conductor paths. This simplifies the design of the single-pair Ethernet device. Advantageously, the printed circuit board can be omitted.

[0021] Furthermore, it is proposed that the single-pair Ethernet device includes an adapter connector, in particular an adapter connector, which is part of an adapter and to which the connecting wires are electrically connected. An "adapter" is understood to be an electrical component comprising a first connector, in particular a bridge connector, and a second connector, in particular an adapter connector, wherein a further first connector, in particular a daisy chain connector, can be connected to the first connector, and a further second connector, in particular a connector which is electrically connected to the device, can be connected to the second connector, and wherein the further first connector and the further second connector differ with respect to a mating geometry.It is conceivable that the adapter connector is electrically connected to the circuit board; in particular, pins of the adapter connector could be electrically connected to open trace ends of the circuit board. Preferably, the bridge connector is designed as a separate adapter, with the pins of the bridge connector advantageously being electrically connected to the pins of the adapter connector. Particularly preferably, the bridge connector has four pins, which are electrically connected to two pins of the adapter connector via the leads. This allows for a flexible design of the single-pair Ethernet device. Advantageously, different adapter connectors can be used to connect different types of devices to the rest of the single-pair Ethernet system.

[0022] Furthermore, it is proposed that the single-pair Ethernet device comprises a cable with two conductors, to which the connecting leads are electrically connected. It is conceivable that the cable is electrically connected to the circuit board; in particular, the conductors could be electrically connected to the open trace ends of the circuit board. Preferably, the bridge connector is designed as a separate adapter, with conductors of the cable advantageously electrically connected to the pins of the bridge connector. Particularly preferably, the bridge connector has four pins, which are electrically connected to the conductors of the cable via the connecting leads. It is also possible that the conductors of the cable are permanently electrically connected to the device. Preferably, the cable has at least one connector for connection to the device.This allows for a flexible configuration of the single-pair Ethernet device. The cable can advantageously be used as an extension cable to electrically connect the device to the rest of the single-pair Ethernet system.

[0023] In a further embodiment of the invention, it is proposed that the first and second conductor paths are each free of, in particular, effective, throughputs. "Effective throughputs" are understood to mean throughputs that electrically connect a remaining conductor path to at least one electrical functional unit, for example, the circuit board and / or the adapter connector and / or the cable and / or the device. Preferably, the single-pair Ethernet device has a short-circuit connector which includes the input contacts, the output contacts, and the throughputs, and advantageously provides a direct connection of power and / or data from the first input contact to the first output contact and from the second input contact to the second output contact. This allows for a flexible design of the single-pair Ethernet device.Advantageously, single-pair Ethernet input and output pairs can be directly connected to each other. Particularly advantageous is the ability to easily vary the number of devices in the single-pair Ethernet system by simply replacing jumper connectors and shorting plugs, without interrupting the daisy chain.

[0024] Furthermore, it is proposed that in at least one additional operating state, different from the operating state, and in particular the additional operating state, the first and second transmission paths are interrupted. The term "interrupted" means that in the additional operating state, the transmission paths are divided into several sub-units that are physically separate from one another. Advantageously, the transmission paths in the additional operating state are divided into four sub-units, with each sub-unit being electrically connected to one of the input or output contacts. It would be conceivable for the single-pair Ethernet device to have at least one switching unit, for example, a relay, by which the single-pair Ethernet device can be switched to the operating state and / or the additional operating state.Advantageously, the single-pair Ethernet conductor pairs are directly electrically connected via the conductor paths in the operating state. Preferably, the operating state is configured as a rest state of the single-pair Ethernet device. Advantageously, each conductor path has a pair of spring contacts, wherein, in the operating state, a first spring contact is electrically connected to a second spring contact of the first conductor path, and a further first spring contact is electrically connected to a further second spring contact of the second conductor path. Preferably, the single-pair Ethernet device has a break-away connector, which is particularly preferably designed to break the conductor paths when the jumper connector is inserted. The input and output contacts are particularly preferably configured as pins of the break-away connector.The bridge connector is particularly advantageous when, in the extended operating state, it is inserted into the breakaway connector and positioned between the spring contacts. Advantageously, the bridge connector has lateral contact surfaces that make electrical contact with the spring contacts. The bridge connector also advantageously features a second conductor path and a third conductor path, wherein, in the extended operating state, the first conductor path electrically connects the first input contact and the first output contact, and the second conductor path electrically connects the second input contact and the second output contact. This allows for an even more flexible configuration of the single-pair Ethernet system.Advantageously, a normally closed short-circuit connector can be provided, which can be switched from one operating state to another and vice versa by simply inserting and removing the jumper connector. Particularly advantageous is the ability to change the operating state of a number of devices in the single-pair Ethernet system without requiring the installation or removal of short-circuit connectors.

[0025] Advantageously, the single-pair Ethernet device has a connector housing, which can be part of the bridge connector and which at least partially encloses the first and second input contacts. Alternatively, the connector housing could exclusively enclose the first and second input contacts, and the single-pair Ethernet device could have a further connector housing that at least partially encloses the first and second output contacts. Preferably, the connector housing at least partially encloses all input and output contacts. This simplifies the design of the single-pair Ethernet device. Advantageously, the device can be connected to the rest of the single-pair Ethernet system using standard simplex or duplex connectors.

[0026] Furthermore, a single-pair Ethernet system is proposed, comprising a single-pair Ethernet input pair, in particular the single-pair Ethernet input pair, a single-pair Ethernet output pair, in particular the single-pair Ethernet output pair, and at least one electrical connection point for connecting a single-pair Ethernet device, in particular the single-pair Ethernet device, wherein the connection point is connected to both the single-pair Ethernet input pair and the single-pair Ethernet output pair. This allows for a flexible design of the single-pair Ethernet system. Advantageously, the length of stub lines leading from the connection point to a device connected to the rest of the single-pair Ethernet system can be minimized.

[0027] Preferably, the connection point is configured as a chain connector, and the single-pair Ethernet device is configured as a bridge connector and / or as a printed circuit board. Alternatively, the connection point and the single-pair Ethernet device could be configured as, in particular, different sections of single-pair Ethernet conductor pairs. It is conceivable that the single-pair Ethernet system and the single-pair Ethernet device are configured separately; for example, the single-pair Ethernet device could be configured as a toolkit for adapting, such as field-terminating, the single-pair Ethernet system. Advantageously, the single-pair Ethernet system includes the single-pair Ethernet device. This allows for a flexibly configurable single-pair Ethernet system.Advantageously, adjustments to the single-pair Ethernet system, such as changing the number of devices in the single-pair Ethernet system, can be made by simply plugging in and / or unplugging any number of single-pair Ethernet devices.

[0028] Furthermore, a method for installing a single-pair Ethernet system, in particular the single-pair Ethernet system itself, is proposed, wherein the single-pair Ethernet system is provided in the form of a daisy chain. This allows for a particularly flexible and easily adaptable installation. Advantageously, a modular installation of the single-pair Ethernet system can be achieved.

[0029] Furthermore, it is proposed that a single-pair Ethernet conductor pair be split into an unterminated single-pair Ethernet input conductor pair and an unterminated single-pair Ethernet output conductor pair, and that at least one connection point be field-terminated at the corresponding ends of the unterminated single-pair Ethernet input conductor pair and the unterminated single-pair Ethernet output conductor pair. Preferably, the single-pair Ethernet conductor pair is cut at one point to split it into the unterminated single-pair Ethernet input conductor pair and the unterminated single-pair Ethernet output conductor pair.Alternatively, the single-pair Ethernet conductor pair could consist of separate, unterminated single-pair Ethernet conductor pair segments, with one of the unterminated single-pair Ethernet conductor pair segments being selected for use as an unterminated single-pair Ethernet input conductor pair and another as an unterminated single-pair Ethernet output conductor pair. The field termination of the connection point advantageously includes techniques known to those skilled in the art for cable termination, such as soldering and / or crimping and / or insulation displacement connections. This allows, in particular, a flexible design of the single-pair Ethernet system. Advantageously, the connection point can be positioned at any point along the single-pair Ethernet conductor pair. Particularly advantageously, the connection point can be individually configured depending on the application.

[0030] In a further embodiment of the invention, it is proposed that a pre-assembled single-pair Ethernet input conductor pair and a pre-assembled single-pair Ethernet output conductor pair be provided, and that one end of each single-pair Ethernet input conductor pair and one end of the single-pair Ethernet output conductor pair be combined to form a termination point. For example, the single-pair Ethernet input conductor pair and the single-pair Ethernet output conductor pair could each be configured as a single-pair Ethernet conductor pair with a simplex connector at each end, wherein the formation of the termination point can include arranging the ends in close proximity to each other or connecting the ends, preferably to form a common duplex connector. This allows for particularly simple installation of the single-pair Ethernet system.Advantageously, the single-pair Ethernet system can be installed without tools by simply plugging together individual components of the single-pair Ethernet system.

[0031] The single-pair Ethernet device, the single-pair Ethernet system, and the method for installing a single-pair Ethernet system are not limited to the applications and embodiments described above. In particular, the single-pair Ethernet device, the single-pair Ethernet system, and the method for installing a single-pair Ethernet system may, to achieve a functionality described herein, comprise a different number of individual elements, components, units, and process steps than specified herein.

[0032] Further advantages become apparent from the following description of the drawings. The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the invention. The drawings, the description, and the claims contain numerous features in combination. A person skilled in the art will expediently consider the features individually and combine them into meaningful further combinations.

[0033] They show: Fig. 1 a schematic representation of a single-pair Ethernet system with a single-pair Ethernet device, Fig. 2 a part of a chain connector of the single-pair Ethernet system in an oblique view, Fig. 3 the single-pair Ethernet device in an oblique view, Fig. 4 the single-pair Ethernet device of the Fig. 3Fig. 5 shows a schematic flowchart of a method for installing the single-pair Ethernet system in a bottom view, Fig. 6 shows a schematic flowchart of another embodiment of a method for installing the single-pair Ethernet system, Fig. 7 shows another embodiment of a single-pair Ethernet device in an oblique view, and Fig. 8 shows the single-pair Ethernet device of the Fig. 7 In a partially opened view, Fig. 9, another embodiment of a single-pair Ethernet device in an oblique view, Fig. 10, the single-pair Ethernet device of the Fig. 9 In a partially opened view, Fig. 11, another embodiment of a single-pair Ethernet device in an oblique view, Fig. 12 the single-pair Ethernet device of the Fig. 11In a partially opened view, Fig. 13, another embodiment of a single-pair Ethernet device in an oblique view, Fig. 14 the single-pair Ethernet device of the Fig. 13 In a partially opened view, Fig. 15 shows a schematic representation of another embodiment of a single-pair Ethernet device in an operating state, and Fig. 16 shows a schematic representation of the single-pair Ethernet device of the Fig. 15 in another operating state.

[0034] The in Fig. 2 as well as Figs. 9-12 The embodiments shown and the accompanying textual explanations (including the descriptive sections following the figures) are not covered by the present claims and are retained only for the completeness of the disclosure.

[0035] Of the objects that appear multiple times in the figures, only one is marked with a reference symbol.

[0036] Figure 1 Figure 42a shows part of a single-pair Ethernet system. The single-pair Ethernet system includes a distributor 50a. The distributor 50a includes a router. Alternatively or additionally, the distributor 50a could include a power distributor. The single-pair Ethernet system 42a includes multiple single-pair Ethernet devices 10a, of which only one is shown and described below. The single-pair Ethernet device 10a includes a device 52a. The device 52a includes a sensor for a smart home application. Alternatively or additionally, the device 52a could include an actuator for a smart home application or a network chip for a computer.

[0037] The single-pair Ethernet system 42a has a plurality of single-pair Ethernet input conductor pairs 16a, which are identical to each other, therefore in Figure 1Only one of the single-pair Ethernet input pairs 16a is shown, and only the single-pair Ethernet input pair 16a shown is described below. The distributor 50a and the device 52a are electrically connected via the single-pair Ethernet input pair 16a and a single-pair Ethernet output pair 22a in a daisy chain. The single-pair Ethernet system 42a has multiple single-pair Ethernet output pairs 22a, which are identical to each other, therefore in Figure 1Only a portion of one of the single-pair Ethernet output conductor pairs 22a is shown, and only the single-pair Ethernet output conductor pair 22a shown is described below. The single-pair Ethernet input conductor pair 16a and the single-pair Ethernet output conductor pair 22a are identical in design. Alternatively, the single-pair Ethernet input conductor pair 16a and the single-pair Ethernet output conductor pair 22a could be configured differently. The single-pair Ethernet input conductor pair 16a is configured as part of a single-pair Ethernet cable 46a, which is connected in Figure 2 is shown.

[0038] The single-pair Ethernet system 42a has multiple electrical connection points 44a, which are identical to each other. Therefore, only one of the connection points 44a will be described below. Alternatively, the connection points 44a could be configured differently. Connection point 44a serves to connect a single-pair Ethernet device 10a, which will be described in more detail later. Connection point 44a is connected to the single-pair Ethernet input conductor pair 16a. Connection point 44a is connected to the single-pair Ethernet output conductor pair 22a. Connection point 44a is formed from corresponding ends of the single-pair Ethernet conductor pairs 16a and 22a.The ends of the single-pair Ethernet conductor pairs 16a and 22a each have a sub-chain connector 48a, whereby the sub-chain connectors 48a are identical to each other, therefore only the sub-chain connector 48a of the single-pair Ethernet input conductor pair 16a is described below. The sub-chain connector 48a of the single-pair Ethernet input conductor pair 16a is in . Figure 2 The sub-chain connector 48a is designed as a simplex plug. The sub-chain connectors 48a together form a chain connector 49a. The chain connector 49a is designed as a duplex plug. The chain connector 49a is formed by connecting both sub-chain connectors 48a. Alternatively, the chain connector 49a could be designed as two separate simplex plugs, as one duplex socket, or as two separate simplex sockets.

[0039] The single-pair Ethernet system 42a comprises multiple single-pair Ethernet devices 10a, which are identical to each other. Therefore, only one of the single-pair Ethernet devices 10a will be described below. Alternatively, the single-pair Ethernet device 10a could be configured separately from the single-pair Ethernet system 42a. The single-pair Ethernet device 10a is in Figure 3The single-pair Ethernet device 10a is shown in more detail below. It has a first input contact 12a and a second input contact 14a. Input contacts 12a and 14a are used to electrically connect the single-pair Ethernet input conductor pair 16a. Input contacts 12a and 14a are configured as pins of a jumper connector 34a. The single-pair Ethernet device 10a has a first output contact 18a and a second output contact 20a. Output contacts 18a and 20a are used to electrically connect the single-pair Ethernet output conductor pair 22a. Output contacts 18a and 20a are configured as pins of the bridge connector 34a. The bridge connector 34a is configured as a duplex socket.Alternatively, the bridge connector 34a could be configured as two separate simplex sockets, as one duplex plug, or as two separate simplex plugs. If the device 52a is configured as a termination device, the bridge connector 34a could also be configured as a single simplex socket or as a single simplex plug.

[0040] The single-pair Ethernet device 10a has a printed circuit board 32a. The device 52a is mounted on the printed circuit board 32a (not shown). The jumper connector 34a is electrically connected to the printed circuit board 32a. The printed circuit board 32a has a first conductor 54a. The printed circuit board 32a has a second conductor 56a. The conductors 54a and 56a are electrically connected to the device 52a. Alternatively, the conductors 56a could be electrically connected to the device 52a by a two-wire cable and / or a connector. The single-pair Ethernet device 10a has a first conductor path 24a. The first conductor path 24a electrically connects the first input contact 12a to the first output contact 18a. The single-pair Ethernet device 10a has a second conductor path 26a.The second conductor path 26a electrically connects the second input contact 14a to the second output contact 20a. Conductor paths 24a and 26a connect input contacts 12a and 14a and output contacts 18a and 20a to conductor tracks 54a and 56a.

[0041] The first routing path 24a has a first forwarding point 28a. The second routing path 26a has a second forwarding point 30a. Forwarding points 28a and 30a are in Figure 4The diagram shows the following. Alternatively, the traces 24a and 26a could have any number of further connections. The connections 28a and 30a are designed as sections of the conductor tracks 54a and 56a. The first connection 28a electrically connects a remaining first trace to a remaining first conductor track. The second connection 30a electrically connects a remaining second trace to a remaining second conductor track. The circuit board 32a has both connections 28a and 30a. Alternatively, the circuit board 32a could have only one of the connections 28a and 30a, or neither of the connections 28a and 30a. The circuit board 32a has both traces 24a and 26a. Alternatively, the circuit board 32a could have only one of the traces 24a and 26a, or neither of the traces 24a and 26a.

[0042] The single-pair Ethernet device 10a has a connector housing 40a. The connector housing 40a is part of the bridge connector 34a. The connector housing 40a partially encloses the input contacts 12a, 14a and the output contacts 18a, 20a. Alternatively, the connector housing 40a could partially enclose only the input contacts 12a, 14a or only the output contacts 18a, 20a. The input contacts 12a, 14a and the output contacts 18a, 20a each have a section protruding from the connector housing 40a. These protruding sections serve to connect to pins of the sub-chain connectors 48a.

[0043] Figure 5Figure 1 shows a schematic flowchart of a procedure for installing the Single-Pair Ethernet System 42a. The Single-Pair Ethernet System 42a is provided in the form of a daisy chain. In a splitting step 100a, a Single-Pair Ethernet conductor pair (not shown) is split into an unterminated Single-Pair Ethernet input conductor pair (not shown) and an unterminated Single-Pair Ethernet output conductor pair (not shown). Splitting step 100a involves cutting the Single-Pair Ethernet conductor pair at an arbitrary point. In assembly step 110a, the connection points 44a are field-assembled at the corresponding ends of the unassembled single-pair Ethernet input conductor pair 16a and the unassembled single-pair Ethernet output conductor pair 22a. Assembly step 110a follows the distribution step 100a.After assembly step 110a, the unterminated single-pair Ethernet input pair and the unterminated single-pair Ethernet output pair correspond to single-pair Ethernet input pair 16a and single-pair Ethernet output pair 22a, respectively. In a chaining step 120a, device 52a is connected to the rest of the single-pair Ethernet system. Chaining step 120a involves connecting single-pair Ethernet device 10a via terminal 44a. Chaining step 120a follows assembly step 110a.

[0044] Figure 6Figure 1 shows a schematic flowchart of another procedure for installing the single-pair Ethernet system 42a. The single-pair Ethernet system 42a is provided in the form of a daisy chain. In connection step 130a, the single-pair Ethernet input pair 16a and the single-pair Ethernet output pair 22a are provided. Subsequently, one end of the single-pair Ethernet input pair 16a and one end of the single-pair Ethernet output pair 22a are combined to form the connection point 44a. Connection step 130a is followed analogously to the Figure 6 the linking step 120a.

[0045] In Figures 7 to 16 Five further embodiments of the invention are shown. The following descriptions are essentially limited to the differences between the embodiments, whereby with regard to components, features and functions that remain the same, reference is made to the description of the embodiment of the Figures 1 to 6 Reference can be made to. To distinguish the embodiments, the letter a in the reference numerals of the embodiment is used in the Figures 1 to 6 by the letters b to f in the reference numerals of the exemplary embodiments of the Figures 7 to 16 replaced. With regard to identically designated components, especially those with the same reference numerals, reference can generally also be made to the drawings and / or the description of the embodiment of the Figures 1 to 6 be referred.

[0046] In Figure 7 Figure 1 shows another embodiment of a single-pair Ethernet device 10b. The single-pair Ethernet device 10b has a jumper connector 34b. The jumper connector 34b has a first through-line 28b. The jumper connector 34b has a second through-line 30b. The through-lines 28b and 30b are connected in Figure 8The bridge connector 34b is shown in more detail below. It has a first conductor path 24b and a second conductor path 26b. The conductor paths 24b and 26b are configured as T-shaped sections of the conductor tracks of the bridge connector 34b.

[0047] In Figure 9 Figure 1 shows another embodiment of a single-pair Ethernet device 10c. The single-pair Ethernet device 10c has a bridge connector 34c. The single-pair Ethernet device 10c is free of printed circuit boards. The bridge connector 34c has a first through-line 28c. The bridge connector 34c has a second through-line 30c. The through-lines 28c and 30c are connected in Figure 10The single-pair Ethernet device 10c has an adapter connector 36c. The adapter connector 36c is designed as a simplex connector. Alternatively, the adapter connector 36c could be designed as any other type of connector. The leads 28c and 30c are electrically connected to the adapter connector 36c; this is shown in Figure 10 The adapter connector 36c is used to connect a connector that is electrically connected to a device (not shown). Alternatively, the adapter connector 36c could be used to connect to another single-pair Ethernet conductor pair (not shown) to provide a branch in a daisy chain.

[0048] In Figure 11Figure 1 shows another embodiment of a single-pair Ethernet device 10d. The single-pair Ethernet device 10d has a bridge connector 34d. The single-pair Ethernet device 10d is free of printed circuit boards. The single-pair Ethernet device 10d has a bridge connector 34d. The bridge connector 34d has a first through-line 28d. The bridge connector 34d has a second through-line 30d. The through-lines 28d and 30d are in Figure 12The single-pair Ethernet device 10d has a cable 38d. The cable 38d has two conductors 58d. The extensions 28d and 30d are electrically connected to the conductors 58d. The cable 38d has an adapter connector (not shown) at one end opposite the jumper connector 34d. The cable 38d is electrically connected to a device (not shown). Alternatively, the cable 38d could be used to connect to another single-pair Ethernet conductor pair (not shown) to provide a branch of a daisy chain.

[0049] In Figure 13 Figure 1 shows another embodiment of a single-pair Ethernet device 10e. The single-pair Ethernet device 10e has a short-circuit connector 60e. The short-circuit connector 60e has conductor paths 24e, 26e, which are connected in Figure 14are shown in more detail below. The conductor paths 24e and 26e are each free of further connections. The conductor paths 24e and 26e serve for the direct electrically conductive connection of input contacts 12e and 14e and output contacts 18e and 20e of the short-circuit plug 60e.

[0050] In Figure 15Figure 1 is a further embodiment of a single-pair Ethernet device 10f, shown schematically in an operating state. The single-pair Ethernet device 10f is part of a single-pair Ethernet system 42f. The single-pair Ethernet device 10f has a first conductor path 24f and a second conductor path 26f. The first conductor path 24f electrically connects a first input contact 12f and a first output contact 18f. The second conductor path 26f electrically connects a second input contact 14f and a second output contact 20f. The input contacts 12f, 14f and the output contacts 18f, 20f are configured as pins of a breakaway connector (not shown). The break connector can be plugged onto a chain connector of a single-pair Ethernet input conductor pair (not shown) and single-pair Ethernet output conductor pair (not shown).

[0051] Alternatively, the chain connector and the break connector could be formed as a single unit, and in particular, be identical to each other. The conductor paths 24f and 26f each have two spring contacts 70f, 72f, 74f, and 76f. In the operating state, a first spring contact 70f and a second spring contact 72f of the first conductor path 24f, as well as a first further spring contact 74f and a second further spring contact 76f of the second conductor path, are directly electrically connected. The operating state is configured as a rest state for the single-pair Ethernet device 10f. In the operating state, the break connector provides a short-circuit plug function analogous to the single-pair Ethernet device 10e. Figure 13 and 14ready. The single-pair Ethernet system 42f has a bridge connector 34f. The bridge connector 34f has lateral contact surfaces 62f. The contact surfaces 62f are electrically connected to a device (not shown). In a further operating state different from the operating state, which is Figure 16As shown schematically, the first conductor path 24f and the second conductor path 26f are interrupted. In the further operating state, the bridge connector 34f is inserted into the interrupt connector. In the further operating state, the bridge connector 34f is arranged between the spring contacts 70f, 72f, 74f, 76f. In the further operating state, the input contacts 12f, 14f and the output contacts 18f, 20f are electrically connected to the contact surfaces 62f. The bridge connector 34f has a further first conductor path 64f. In the further operating state, the further first conductor path 64f electrically connects the first input contact 12f and the first output contact 18f. The bridge connector 34f has a further second conductor path 66f. In the further operating state, the further second conductor path 66f electrically connects the second input contact 14f and the second output contact 20f.In the further operating state, the single-pair Ethernet device 10f provides a connection of the device to the single-pair Ethernet input conductor pair 16f and the single-pair Ethernet output conductor pair 22f. Reference sign

[0052] 10 Single-pair Ethernet device 12 First input contact 14 Second input contact 16 Single-pair Ethernet input conductor pair 18 First output contact 20 Second output contact 22 Single-pair Ethernet output conductor pair 24 First conductor path 26 Second conductor path 28 First forwarding 30 Second forwarding 32 Printed circuit board 34 Jumper connector 36 Adapter connector 38 Cable 40 Connector housing 42 Single-pair Ethernet system 44 Electrical connection point 46 Single-pair Ethernet cable 48 Subchain connector 49 Chain connector 50 Distributor 52 Device 54 First conductor path 56 Second conductor path 58 Cable core 60 Short-circuit plug 62 Contact surface 64 First additional conductor path 66 Second additional conductor path 70 First spring contact 72 Second spring contact 74 First additional spring contact 76 Second additional spring contact 100 Division step 110 Assembly step 120 Linking step 130 Connection step

Claims

1. Single-pair Ethernet device (10a-f) comprising a first input contact (12a-f) and a second input contact (14a-f), which are configured for electrically contacting a single-pair Ethernet input conductor pair (16a-f), comprising a first output contact (18a-f) and a second output contact (20a-f), which are configured for electrically contacting a single-pair Ethernet output conductor pair (22a-f), comprising a first conduction path (24a-f), which in at least one operation state electrically conductively connects the first input contact (12a-f) to the first output contact (18a-f), and comprising a second conduction path (26a-f), which in the operation state electrically conductively connects the second input contact (14a-f) to the second output contact (20a-f), characterized in that the first conduction path (24a-d) comprises a first forwarding line (28a-d) and the second conduction path (26a-d) comprises a second forwarding line (30a-d), wherein the forwarding lines (28a-d, 30a-d) are configured for electrical connection to an apparatus (52a), wherein the single-pair Ethernet device (10a-f) comprises a circuit board (32a) which has at least one of the forwarding lines (28a, 30a).

2. Single-pair Ethernet device (10a) as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that the circuit board (32a) comprises at least one of the conduction paths (24a, 26a).

3. Single-pair Ethernet device (10b-d) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, characterized by a bridge plug connector (34b-d) comprising at least one of the forwarding lines (28b-d, 30b-d).

4. Single-pair Ethernet device (10b-d) as claimed in claim 3, characterized in that the bridge plug connector (34b-d) comprises at least one of the conduction paths (24b-d, 26b-d).

5. Single-pair Ethernet device (10c) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, characterized by an adapter plug connector (36c) which is part of an adapter and to which the forwarding lines (28c, 30c) are electrically conductively connected.

6. Single-pair Ethernet device (10d) as claimed in in any one of the preceding claims, characterized by a cable (38d) having two cable cores (58d) to which the forwarding lines (28d, 30d) are electrically conductively connected.

7. Single-pair Ethernet device (10f) as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, in at least one further operation state different from the operation state, the first conduction path (24f) and the second conduction path (26f) are interrupted.

8. Single-pair Ethernet device (10a-f) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, characterized by a plug connector housing (40a-e) which at least partially encloses the first input contact (12a-f) and the second input contact (14a-f).

9. Single-pair Ethernet system (42a) comprising a single-pair Ethernet input conductor pair (16a), comprising a single-pair Ethernet output conductor pair (22a), and comprising at least one electrical connection point (44a) for contacting a single-pair Ethernet device (10a) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the connection point (44a) is connected to the single-pair Ethernet input conductor pair (16a) and to the single-pair Ethernet output conductor pair (22a).

10. Method for installing a single-pair Ethernet system (42a) as claimed in claim 9, comprising the generation of connections between respectively one single-pair Ethernet input conductor pair (16a-f) and one single-pair Ethernet output conductor pair (22a-f) of several single-pair Ethernet devices (10a-f) in such a way that the single-pair Ethernet system (42a) is provided in the form of a daisy-chain.

11. Method as claimed in claim 10, characterized in that a single-pair Ethernet conductor pair is split into an unassembled single-pair Ethernet input conductor pair and an unassembled single-pair Ethernet output conductor pair, and at least one connection point (44a) is field-assembled at corresponding ends of the unassembled single-pair Ethernet input conductor pair and of the unassembled single-pair Ethernet output conductor pair.

12. Method as claimed in claim 11, characterized in that a pre-assembled single-pair Ethernet input conductor pair (16a) and a pre-assembled single-pair Ethernet output conductor pair (22a) are provided, and respectively one end of the single-pair Ethernet input conductor pair (16a) and one end of the single-pair Ethernet output conductor pair (22a) are combined to form a connection point (44a).