Flexible Cable Assembly for Simultaneous Power and Data Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Reconfiguring power and data distribution systems in industrial environments is challenging due to the need for simultaneous power and data transfer, requiring efficient methods to manage changing requirements without separate cables for power and data.
Innovation Solution
A cable assembly with at least two power conductors and at least two data conductors using a serial communication protocol, such as CAN FD, is used for both power and data transmission, with the conductors held within a sheath, allowing for flexible and simultaneous power and data transfer, including automatic termination of data conductors using a terminating resistor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate cables are used for power and data transmission, then power and data can be transferred simultaneously, but the system complexity increases and reconfiguration becomes challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines power conductors and data conductors into a single cable assembly, allowing both power and data transmission to occur simultaneously through one integrated medium. This merging eliminates the need for separate power and data cables, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining reliable power and data transfer capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable assembly is designed to perform multiple functions: it simultaneously carries power through power conductors and data through data conductors. This multi-functionality allows a single cable assembly to replace what would traditionally require separate dedicated cables for power and data, simplifying the overall system architecture.
2Adaptability or versatility
If reconfiguration of power and data distribution systems is performed, then changing power and data requirements can be met, but the complexity and time required for reconfiguration increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cable assembly is designed with flexible characteristics that allow it to be easily reconfigured to meet changing power and data requirements. The integration of power and data conductors in a single assembly enables dynamic adaptation to different operational needs without requiring complex reconfiguration procedures, thus reducing the time and effort needed for system reconfiguration.
3Productivity
If multiple conductors are used in a single cable assembly, then power and data transfer efficiency improves, but interference between conductors may increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cable assembly employs different insulation and shielding characteristics for power conductors versus data conductors, allowing each type of conductor to have optimized local properties that prevent interference. Power conductors are designed with insulation suitable for high-voltage power transmission, while data conductors have insulation and positioning that prevent electromagnetic interference with the power conductors, enabling efficient simultaneous operation.
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
This solution enables efficient and flexible power and data transfer, reducing the need for separate cables and allowing for easy reconfiguration, while ensuring consistent impedance and minimizing interference, thus addressing the challenges of managing changing power and data requirements in industrial settings.
Implementation Method 1
transferring power through at least two power conductors of the cable assembly; and transferring data through at least two data conductors of the cable assembly
Implementation Method 2
terminating the at least two data conductors automatically using a terminating resistor
Data Source
AI summary
A power and data transfer method includes providing a cable assembly for both power and data transmission, transferring power through at least two power conductors of the cable assembly, and transferring data through at least two data conductors of the cable assembly using a serial communication protocol.