Single-Pair Ethernet Sensor Power Module for Faster Long-Distance Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wired sensors have limitations such as low data transmission rates, short data transmission distances, and complex wiring, which hinder their effectiveness in various applications.
Innovation Solution
A sensor system that incorporates a sensor element, a signal processing module, a signal transceiver module, and a data line power supply module, which utilizes a single pair of Ethernet for both data transmission and power supply, enhancing data transmission speed and distance while simplifying the sensor's structure and reducing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If traditional wired communication (I2C/SPI or analog) is used for sensor data transmission, then the sensor can be connected with wired harnesses, but the data transmission rate is low and the data transmission distance is short
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by enabling the Ethernet cable to serve dual purposes: both data transmission and power supply. The sensor node receives power through the same Ethernet cable used for data communication, eliminating the need for separate power wiring and reducing overall system complexity while achieving high-speed data transmission.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the power supply function and data transmission function into a single Ethernet cable connection. By combining these two previously separate functions into one unified interface, the system achieves simplified wiring while maintaining high data transmission rates and extended transmission distance.
2Ease of operation
If traditional wired sensors use separate power and data lines, then power can be supplied reliably, but the wiring becomes complex with multiple wiring harnesses
Solution Approach 1:
The Ethernet cable is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously - carrying both power and data signals. This multi-functional approach simplifies the wiring structure by reducing the number of cables and connectors needed, while the PoE technology ensures reliable power delivery through standardized voltage and current management.
3Device complexity
If Power over Ethernet is used to supply power through data lines, then wiring is simplified and power is provided, but data transmission integrity must be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The Ethernet cable's four wire pairs are functionally segmented: two pairs are dedicated to power transmission (PoE+) while the other two pairs handle data communication. This physical and functional segmentation ensures that power and data signals do not interfere with each other, maintaining data transmission integrity while simplifying the overall wiring structure.
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 proposed solution significantly improves data transmission speed and distance for wired sensors, reduces wiring complexity, and provides a cost-effective power supply method using Ethernet data lines.
Implementation Method 1
a data line power supply module for connecting to a data line of a single pair of Ethernet to provide power to the signal processing module and the signal transceiver module through the data line of the single pair of Ethernet
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention discloses a sensor and a data line power supply module. The sensor comprises of: a sensor element (1) used to detect a physical quantity of a detected object and convert the detected physical quantity into an electrical signal; a signal processing module (2) connected to the sensor element (1) for processing the received electrical signal and having a first communication interface (2a) for outputting the processed electrical signal; a signal transceiver module (3); and a data line power supply module (4) for connecting to a data line of a single pair of Ethernet to provide power to the signal processing module (2) and the signal transceiver module (3) through the data line of the single pair of Ethernet. The signal transceiver module (3) includes: a second communication interface (31a) connected to the first communication interface (2a) of the signal processing module (2) for receiving the processed electrical signal; and a single pair Ethernet interface (32b) for connecting to a single pair Ethernet device (5) to transmit the processed electrical signal through a single pair Ethernet. The present invention can improve data transmission speed and distance, simplify the structure of sensor, and reduce costs.