In-line Power Cord Controller for Remote Device Resetting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional data centers and other scenarios face challenges in remotely resetting electronic devices due to their large size, inaccessibility, or hazardous environments, requiring manual intervention that is often inconvenient or unsafe.
Innovation Solution
A power cord with integrated in-line power control functionality that can selectively enable or disable electrical current flow, controlled via external signals or sensors, allowing remote management of power delivery to electronic devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual reset intervention is used for electronic devices, then the device can be reset, but it requires personnel to physically access the device which is difficult or impossible when equipment is located far away or in inaccessible areas
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a power delivery system with a controller as an intermediary between the user and the electronic device. The controller receives reset commands via communication protocols (UART, I2C, SPI) and automatically manages power cycling, eliminating the need for manual physical access to the device while maintaining system control through standardized interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical intervention (physically pressing reset buttons or switching power) with electronic control mechanisms. The system uses communication protocols and electronic power management to achieve device resetting remotely, substituting mechanical operations with electronic signaling and automated power control.
2Productivity
If manual reset intervention is used for electronic devices, then the device can be reset, but it requires personnel presence which is unavailable during nighttime or weekends
Solution Approach 1:
The power delivery system incorporates automated self-service capabilities through embedded controllers that can detect device states, receive reset commands, and execute power cycling operations autonomously. The system includes sensors and communication interfaces that enable it to service itself and connected devices without requiring human presence, operating continuously during nighttime or weekends.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by maintaining readiness to receive and process reset commands at any time. The controller remains in standby mode with power management circuits prepared to execute reset operations immediately upon receiving commands, ensuring uninterrupted availability of reset functionality regardless of time or personnel presence.
3Reliability
If manual reset intervention is used for electronic devices, then the device can be reset, but it exposes personnel to uncomfortable or dangerous environments
Solution Approach 1:
The power delivery controller serves as a safe intermediary that operates in controlled environments away from hazardous conditions. It receives commands through isolated communication interfaces and executes power control operations remotely, eliminating personnel exposure to dangerous environments while maintaining rapid response capability through automated control circuits.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical reset operations with electronic power control systems that can be operated from safe distances. The system uses electrical signaling and automated power management circuits to perform reset functions without requiring physical presence in uncomfortable or dangerous locations, ensuring both safety and prompt response.
4Adaptability or versatility
If conventional power cords are used, then power can be delivered to devices, but they lack integrated control functionality requiring separate control systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges power delivery and control functions into a single integrated power cord system. The power cord incorporates a controller, communication interfaces (UART, I2C, SPI), and power management circuits within its structure, combining what were previously separate components (power cord plus external controller) into one unified device that can both deliver power and execute control operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The power cord is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a power delivery medium and as a control interface. It includes multiple communication protocols and sensor capabilities that enable it to perform diverse functions including power cycling, status monitoring, and device control, making it a universal component that replaces multiple specialized devices.
Data Source
AI summary
A power cord is described that includes “in-line” power control functionality. The power control functionality may selectively enable or disable a flow of electrical current through the power cord and/or selectively control an amount of electrical current that is permitted to flow through the power cord. The power control functionality may be activated and/or controlled through the receipt of control signals from an external device. The power cord may be configured to monitor the state of an electronic device to which it is connected and selectively activate and/or modify the operation of the power control functionality in response to the detection of a particular state of the electronic device. The power cord may also be configured to receive and analyze sensor data, and based at least on the analysis, selectively activate and/or modify the operation of the power control functionality.