Midspan Power Control via Unused Ethernet Conductors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional Power Over Ethernet (POE) devices in VOIP networks lack external control and feedback, leading to inefficient power delivery and increased operational costs, as they operate independently of routers and do not provide real-time monitoring of power status to connected devices.
Innovation Solution
A data communications network that integrates a midspan device electrically coupled with a data communications device, allowing for remote monitoring and control of power delivery to computerized devices, using otherwise unused pairs of conductors in RJ-45 connectors, enabling the data communications device to regulate the amount of power provided and monitor the status of the midspan device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If POE devices operate as stand-alone devices independent from routers, then power delivery to computerized devices is achieved, but the amount of power provided cannot be controlled by external mechanisms leading to increased operational costs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the POE device with the router by integrating the POE functionality into the router's architecture. The router now contains both data communication ports and POE ports, eliminating the need for separate stand-alone POE devices. This integration allows the router to simultaneously perform data routing and power delivery control, resolving the contradiction by combining multiple functions into a single controlled system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the router monitors power consumption by POE devices and adjusts power delivery accordingly. The system can detect when POE devices are connected, measure their power requirements, and regulate power supply in real-time. This feedback loop prevents excessive power consumption by stand-alone POE devices while maintaining their power delivery capability.
2Power
If POE devices deliver power through RJ45 connectors without external control, then power is provided to computerized devices, but the overall amount of power provided cannot be regulated leading to increased operational costs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the power control functionality with the existing router infrastructure. By integrating POE control into the router, the system uses the router's existing processing capabilities and control mechanisms to manage power delivery, rather than requiring separate complex control systems. This reduces overall device complexity while maintaining regulated power delivery.
Solution Approach 2:
The router is designed to perform multiple functions: data communication, power delivery, and power control. The same router device that routes data packets also manages POE power supply, making it a universal device that handles both communication and power management tasks. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated control devices.
3Power
If conventional POE devices do not provide feedback on power delivery status, then power injection is achieved, but system operators cannot know whether the POE device was properly connected or providing power to the IP telephone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the router monitors power delivery status to connected POE devices. The system can detect whether devices are properly connected, verify power reception, and provide status information back to operators. This feedback loop resolves the information loss by continuously monitoring and reporting power delivery conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The router acts as an intermediary between the power source and POE devices, monitoring and reporting on power delivery status. The router receives power, processes it, and provides feedback information about the status of connected devices. This intermediary role enables the system to track and communicate power delivery information without requiring direct monitoring at every device interface.
4Ease of operation
If stand-alone POE devices are used in VOIP networks, then power is provided to IP telephones, but the routers do not control the amount of power provided leading to wasted energy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the power provision function into the router, eliminating separate stand-alone POE devices. The router now handles both data communication and power delivery control, allowing it to regulate power based on actual device needs. This integration resolves the energy waste by ensuring power is only delivered when and where needed, while maintaining ease of operation through unified device management.
Data Source
AI summary
A data communications network that includes a data communications device and a midspan device where the data communications device directs data to computerized devices, such as IP phones, within the network and the midspan device provides power to the computerized devices. The data communications device and midspan device are electrically coupled such that the data communications device can monitor and control operation of the midspan device using otherwise unused pairs of conductors connecting the data communications device and the midspan device. For example, the data communications device can monitor and control an amount of power transmitted by the midspan device to the computerized devices over the network. Additionally, based upon the monitoring, the data communications device can activate an indicator, such as a visual indicator associated with the midspan device, to provide an indication of an operation state of the midspan device.