Daisy-Chain Intermediary Devices for Dynamic Power Allocation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing PoE systems struggle with efficiently distributing power among multiple devices in a daisy chain configuration, where the power needs of intermediary devices and downstream devices can exceed the available power budget, leading to inefficient power utilization and potential denial of power to devices that require less power.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of an intermediary device (ID) with a power tap and switching processor that manages power distribution among multiple devices, allowing for intelligent power allocation and communication through extended LLDP messages to adjust power requests and prioritize devices based on their needs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If multiple intermediary devices are connected in series in a PoE system, then the network coverage and device connectivity are improved, but the power distribution efficiency deteriorates due to cumulative power consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the power distribution function by introducing intermediary devices with switching processors that independently manage power allocation. Each intermediary device divides the total power budget and distributes it to downstream devices, preventing cumulative power loss by creating segmented power management zones along the daisy chain configuration.
2Reliability
If power is allocated to meet the maximum demand of all devices, then all devices can potentially receive power, but the power utilization efficiency deteriorates when not all devices require maximum power simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic power allocation through switching processors that continuously monitor power requests from downstream devices using extended LLDP messages. The system adjusts power distribution in real-time based on actual device needs rather than allocating fixed maximum power, enabling power availability to be maintained while utilization efficiency is improved through adaptive adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent establishes a feedback mechanism where intermediary devices exchange power request and allocation information through extended LLDP messages. Downstream devices communicate their power requirements upstream, and the switching processor uses this feedback to optimize power distribution, ensuring power availability while preventing waste when full power is not needed.
3Extent of automation
If intermediary devices consume power for their own operation, then they can perform intelligent power management functions, but the available power for downstream devices decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes intermediary devices multi-functional by enabling them to both consume power for their own operation and simultaneously function as power distribution nodes. The switching processor performs multiple roles: managing local power consumption, allocating power to downstream devices, and coordinating with upstream PSE, thereby justifying the power consumption through enhanced intelligent power management capabilities.
4Measurement precision
If power requests are aggregated from all downstream devices, then the total power requirement is accurately determined, but the complexity of power management increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the complex power management task by distributing intelligence to each intermediary device. Instead of one centralized system managing all power requests, each switching processor independently aggregates requests from its own downstream devices and communicates with upstream devices. This segmentation maintains measurement precision while reducing overall system complexity through distributed decision-making.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A plurality of intermediary devices may be interposed in a hybrid data/power connection between a power source and a powered device. In one aspect, the intermediary devices may be connected in series. Such connecting may be referred to as "daisy chaining." In other aspects, the intermediary devices may be connected in a tree or a mesh. Each intermediary device may be configured to consume, for its own use, power that is supplied over the hybrid data/power connection and to deliver remaining power over the hybrid data/power connection to at least one other device. Furthermore, each intermediary device may be configured to independently route data and power to downstream devices.