Hybrid Data/Power Link Routing for Multi-Node PoE Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) systems become inefficient when multiple PoE loads are connected, as they require dedicated cables, which is cumbersome and inefficient for arbitrarily configured networks.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for distributing DC power and routing data independently through hybrid data/power links, using a central controller to manage power distribution and data routing maps across interconnected devices, allowing multiple PoE loads to share a single cable.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a dedicated cable is used per PoE load, then power delivery reliability is ensured, but device complexity and cable management become unwieldy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple power delivery paths into a single hybrid cable infrastructure. Multiple PoE loads share common cable segments, allowing power to be delivered through aggregated pathways rather than requiring separate dedicated cables for each load. This reduces cable management complexity while maintaining power delivery reliability through the shared infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The hybrid cable serves multiple functions simultaneously: it carries both data signals and power signals, and can support multiple PoE loads on the same cable segment. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated cables for each load, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining reliable power delivery to all connected devices.
2Productivity
If multiple PoE loads are connected via a single hybrid cable, then cable efficiency improves, but power distribution control becomes challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the controller monitors power consumption and cable utilization in real-time. Based on this feedback, the controller dynamically adjusts power distribution to multiple loads sharing the same hybrid cable, optimizing cable utilization while maintaining proper power delivery control. The system responds to actual usage patterns to manage the complexity of serving multiple loads through shared infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The power distribution system is made dynamic rather than static. The controller can reconfigure power allocation and routing based on real-time conditions, allowing the same hybrid cable to efficiently serve different combinations of PoE loads as needs change. This dynamic adaptability resolves the control complexity by providing flexible, condition-based management of shared cable resources.
3Ease of operation
If dedicated cables are used for each PoE load, then power delivery is simplified, but scalability to arbitrarily configured networks is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a dynamic power distribution system where the controller can adapt power routing to match arbitrary network topologies. Instead of requiring fixed dedicated cable assignments, the system dynamically configures power delivery paths based on how devices are actually connected. This maintains operational simplicity through centralized control while enabling scalability to any network configuration pattern.
Solution Approach 2:
The hybrid cable infrastructure is designed to be universally applicable to multiple PoE loads in various configurations. Rather than requiring specific dedicated cable assignments, the same type of hybrid cable can serve different numbers and types of loads in different topologies. This universality enables the system to scale to arbitrarily configured networks while maintaining the simplicity of using standardized cable connections.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for execution in a central controller comprises obtaining an interconnection topology for a plurality of nodes interconnected via hybrid data/power links; obtaining a power distribution map associated with the topology; and causing DC power to be distributed to the nodes via the links according to the power distribution map. Also, such a node in which there is at least one power-receiving port and at least one power-transmitting port, a controller and power switching circuitry. The controller operates based on power drawn from a portion of the DC power received via the power-receiving port. The controller determines a destination of data packets received via any of the ports and outputting those of the received data packets that are not destined for the network device via another one of the ports. The controller also causes the power switching circuitry to output via plural power-transmitting ports respective portions of the received DC power received at the power-receiving port.