Multi-Port PoE Network Equipment Power Combining
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing Power over Ethernet (PoE) systems, as per the IEEE802.3af standard, are limited to supplying a maximum of 15.4 watts of power, which is insufficient for driving power-consuming components in devices that require more power.
Innovation Solution
A network equipment design that utilizes multiple Ethernet network ports to combine and amplify DC power from network lines, using transformer modules and power modules with bridge rectifiers and DC/DC converters to generate a stable output power sufficient for power-consuming components, exceeding the standard's power limit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If the IEEE802.3af standard is followed for PoE power supply, then compatibility and standard compliance are ensured, but the maximum power is limited to 15.4 watts which is insufficient for high-power devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the power supply function across multiple Ethernet ports (at least two ports), where each port independently receives DC power from separate network lines. This segmentation allows the system to combine power from multiple sources to exceed the 15.4W limit while each individual port maintains standard compliance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges power from multiple DC power sources received through different Ethernet ports by connecting them through transformer centers to a common power output. This combining approach enables the aggregation of power beyond what a single PoE port can provide, achieving high-power supply capability.
2Power
If multiple Ethernet ports are used to combine DC power, then power supply capacity exceeds 15.4 watts, but system complexity increases due to multiple transformers and power combining circuits
Solution Approach 1:
The Ethernet ports serve dual functions: they simultaneously transmit data signals and receive DC power from network lines. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate power input interfaces, thereby limiting the increase in system complexity despite the enhanced power capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The network lines themselves serve as the power delivery medium, eliminating the need for separate power cables or external power adapters. The system uses the existing Ethernet infrastructure for both data and power, reducing overall system complexity.
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 supply of power exceeding the standard's 15.4 watts limit, making it possible to power devices with higher energy requirements using the PoE technology while maintaining compliance with the IEEE802.3af standard.
Implementation Method 1
a transformer module (2), a power module (3), and a signal processing circuit (4). The transformer module (2) is coupled to the Ethernet network ports (1), and is configured to separate the DC powers from the network signals transmitted thereto
Implementation Method 2
The power module (3) is coupled to the transformer module (2) for combining the DC powers separated from the network signals and received from the transformer module (2) into a supplying power
Data Source
AI summary
A network equipment for a powered device of a PoE system is adapted to be connected to multiple network lines, each transmitting a network signal, and a DC power that is carried on the network signal, and that has a magnitude smaller than a power necessary for driving power-consuming components of the powered device. The network equipment includes: multiple Ethernet network ports, each coupled to a respective network line; a transformer module coupled to the Ethernet network ports, and configured to separate the DC powers from the network signals; a power module coupled to the transformer module for combining the DC powers into a supplying power; and a signal processing circuit coupled to the power module for receiving at least a portion of the supplying power, and coupled to the transformer module for processing the network signals. The supplying power has a magnitude sufficient for driving the power-consuming components.