Bidirectional DC Power Interchange for Network Routers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power supply systems for network routers, especially in daisy chain configurations, face interruptions due to battery server failures, excessive current flow, and distance limitations, leading to instability and high costs in maintaining continuous power supply when consumers exchange direct-current power.
Innovation Solution
A power interchange system with nodes connected via direct-current bus lines and network cables, utilizing bidirectional DC-to-DC converters and controllers to manage power distribution, allowing power sharing between nodes and using unused communication pins for power transmission, and incorporating diodes to prevent backflow and maintain ground separation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If power is supplied from a single battery server to network routers in a daisy chain configuration, then the network can operate, but power supply stability deteriorates due to battery server failures and excessive current flow
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the power supply system into multiple independent battery servers distributed across different nodes. Each node has its own battery server that can independently supply power to local network routers and communicate with other nodes. This segmentation eliminates the single point of failure in traditional daisy chain configurations, as each segment can operate independently if others fail.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces DC-to-DC converters as intermediary devices between battery servers and network routers, and between different nodes. These converters regulate voltage and current levels, preventing excessive current flow while enabling efficient power transmission. The converters act as mediators that isolate direct electrical connections, reducing the propagation of harmful electrical transients.
2Length of moving object
If direct-current power is transmitted over long distances through network cables, then optical fiber is avoided, but communication distance is limited by cable resistance and voltage drop
Solution Approach 1:
The patent places DC-to-DC converter modules at intermediate nodes along the power distribution path. These converters boost voltage and regulate current at each node, compensating for voltage drop and resistance losses in the cables. This allows power to be transmitted over extended distances while maintaining adequate voltage levels for network router operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically adjusts voltage and current parameters through DC-to-DC converters based on distance and load conditions. The system changes electrical parameters (voltage level, current magnitude) to optimize power transmission efficiency over varying distances, allowing extended communication distances while minimizing energy loss.
3Device complexity
If unused communication pins are utilized for power transmission, then additional cables are avoided, but network cable integrity must be maintained for both communication and power functions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes network cables multi-functional by utilizing unused communication pins (such as pins 4 and 5 in Ethernet cables) for power transmission in addition to their communication function. This eliminates the need for separate power cables, reducing system complexity while maintaining cable integrity through proper electrical isolation and protection circuits.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces isolation circuits and protection diodes as intermediaries between the communication and power functions sharing the same cable. These intermediaries prevent electrical interference and damage between the two functions, ensuring that power transmission does not compromise communication integrity or cable durability.
4Reliability
If diodes are incorporated to prevent backflow, then power direction control is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs passive diode components that automatically prevent backflow without requiring active control or complex circuitry. The diodes inherently block reverse current through their physical properties, providing reliable power direction control with minimal added complexity. This self-service approach achieves protection functionality without requiring external control systems.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system ensures stable power supply to network routers, reduces interruptions, and allows for extended communication distances without the need for expensive optical fiber, while preventing excessive current flow and maintaining network integrity.
Implementation Method 1
The wired cable comprises at least one first wire to convey DC power from the first power source of the first node to the second node to power the second communication device
Implementation Method 2
incorporating diodes to prevent backflow and maintain ground separation
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, there is provided a power interchange system for distributing direct current (DC) electrical power. The power interchange system comprises a plurality of nodes comprising a first node and a second node. The first node comprises a first communication device and a first power source to power the first communication device. The second node comprises a second communication device and a second power source to power the second communication device. The power interchange system further comprises a wired cable connecting the first node and the second node. The wired cable comprises at least one first wire to convey DC power from the first power source of the first node to the second node to power the second communication device or from the second power source of the second node to the first node to power the first communication device.