MU-ONT Reverse Power Aggregation Across PoE Lines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional Multi-Unit Optical Network Terminals (MU-ONTs) face challenges in accessing a power source for operation, as external power sources are often costly, time-consuming to install, and may be prohibited by regulations or homeowners' association rules, making it difficult to power these terminals without external power sources.
Innovation Solution
The MU-ONT receives power through Power over Ethernet (PoE) lines connected to terminating units within the building, using a reverse powering device to aggregate and distribute power across multiple PoE lines, allowing the MU-ONT to operate without external power sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If external power sources are used to power the MU-ONT, then the MU-ONT can operate reliably, but installation becomes costly and time-consuming requiring third-party electricians
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces Power over Ethernet (PoE) lines as an intermediary power transmission medium. Instead of requiring direct connection to external power sources, the system uses existing Ethernet infrastructure to deliver power to the MU-ONT. This mediator enables power transmission through conventional networking cables that are already installed in the building, eliminating the need for specialized electrical installation while ensuring reliable power supply.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-powered operation by allowing the MU-ONT to draw power from PoE lines that are part of the existing network infrastructure. The terminating units within the building provide power through the PoE lines without requiring external electricians or separate power installation. This self-service approach uses the building's existing electrical and networking infrastructure to automatically power the MU-ONT.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If external power sources are installed, then the MU-ONT operates continuously, but installation time increases due to permitting and regulatory requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The PoE lines serve multiple functions simultaneously: they provide both data communication and power transmission to the MU-ONT. This multi-functionality allows the system to operate continuously without requiring separate power installation, as the existing Ethernet infrastructure is repurposed to deliver both networking and power functions through a single cable system.
3Reliability
If external power sources are used, then the MU-ONT can be powered, but regulatory and HOA restrictions may prohibit installation
Solution Approach 1:
The PoE infrastructure acts as an intermediary that bypasses regulatory restrictions. Instead of installing external power sources which may require permits and HOA approval, the system uses the existing Ethernet cable infrastructure as a mediator to deliver power. This approach leverages already-approved networking infrastructure, avoiding additional regulatory hurdles while ensuring power availability.
4Ease of manufacture
If Power over Ethernet lines are used to supply power, then installation costs are reduced, but power distribution across multiple lines becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple PoE lines into a single power supply system. The MU-ONT aggregates power from multiple terminating units through their respective PoE lines, combining the power sources to meet its total power requirements. This merging approach simplifies the overall system architecture by treating multiple PoE lines as a unified power delivery mechanism, reducing distribution complexity while maintaining cost-effective installation.
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
Enables the MU-ONT to obtain power from in-building PoE lines, eliminating the need for external power sources, reducing installation costs and regulatory barriers, and providing a reliable power supply.
Implementation Method 1
The MU-ONT is communicatively connected, via a set of Power over Ethernet (PoE) lines, to one or more terminating units (TUs) disposed within an interior of the building
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques for powering a multi-unit optical network terminal (MU-ONT) located outside of a multi-unit building include obtaining reverse power from Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) lines connecting the MU-ONT to terminal units (TUs) or customer premises equipments (CPEs) disposed inside the building. Reverse power may be injected into the PoE lines at the TUs, for example. Via an MU-ONT reverse powering device, the reverse power may be separated from services data provided via the PoE lines, and the services data may be delivered between the TUs and a Passive Optical Network (PON) via the MU-ONT. The reverse power obtained from the PoE lines may be aggregated to provide the MU-ONT with power commensurate with its power load. In some embodiments, the MU-ONT power load may be shared or distributed across PoE lines in a passive or actively controlled manner based on variations in the MU-ONT load and/or respective characteristics of the PoE lines.