Network Controller Dynamic Power Thresholds for PoE Devices

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Solution Overview

Problem

Power over Ethernet (PoE) systems face challenges in managing power consumption, as the amount of power provided by Power Sourcing Equipment (PSE) is limited, leading to potential power loss and connectivity issues when powered devices (PDs) exceed the set threshold, especially with non-conforming devices that do not adhere to IEEE standards, resulting in sub-optimal signaling and control protocols.

Innovation Solution

A network controller calculates a predicted threshold for PDs based on operational data, using machine learning techniques to determine optimal power consumption policies, which are then transmitted to PSEs for implementation, thereby managing power distribution more efficiently across the network.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If Power over Ethernet systems use fixed power thresholds for powered devices, then power distribution is simplified, but power loss and connectivity issues occur when devices exceed the threshold

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower distribution simplicityVSAvoidpower loss and connectivity stability

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic power threshold adjustment based on device type, usage patterns, and network conditions. Instead of fixed thresholds, the system continuously adapts power allocation limits to match actual device requirements, preventing both power loss and over-provisioning issues

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where powered devices report their actual power consumption and status to the Power Sourcing Equipment. This feedback loop enables real-time threshold adjustment and prevents connectivity issues by identifying devices that exceed their allocated power before failures occur

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

2Adaptability or versatility

If Power over Ethernet systems implement strict IEEE standard signaling protocols, then power management is standardized, but non-conforming devices cause sub-optimal operation

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedevice compatibilityVSAvoidsignaling and control protocol effectiveness

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intermediary control layer between the Power Sourcing Equipment and powered devices. This intermediary system monitors device behavior and mediates power allocation, accommodating non-conforming devices by adjusting thresholds and signaling protocols dynamically rather than enforcing strict IEEE standards

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes operational parameters such as power thresholds, detection timing, and signaling protocols based on device conformity status. Non-conforming devices trigger parameter adjustments in the control protocol, allowing the system to adapt to varying device behaviors while maintaining overall reliability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If Power Sourcing Equipment provides maximum power to all connected devices, then device operation is ensured, but power consumption exceeds available capacity

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedevice operation assuranceVSAvoidpower consumption exceeding capacity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies partial power allocation based on device priority, usage patterns, and predicted requirements. Instead of providing maximum power uniformly to all devices, the system delivers optimized power amounts that meet actual needs while preserving capacity for critical devices during peak demand periods

Inventive Principle:

Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary power allocation based on device type classification and historical usage data before actual power consumption occurs. This predictive approach allows the Power Sourcing Equipment to pre-allocate appropriate power thresholds, ensuring reliable operation while preventing excessive power consumption and capacity exhaustion

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS11159335B2Controller-based management of noncompliant power over ethernet devices

Publication Date: 2021.10.26 CISCO TECHNOLOGY INC

AI summary

Systems and methods provide for managing a power consumption policy for a powered device. A network controller may be configured to receive power consumption information for a powered device (PD) connected to power sourcing equipment (e.g., a PSE device), calculate a predicted threshold for the PD based on the power consumption information for the PD, and transmit the predicted threshold for the PD to the PSE device. Power sourcing equipment is configured to calculate power consumption information for the PD, transmit the power consumption information for the PD to the network controller, receive a predicted threshold for the PD, and implement a power consumption policy for the PD based on the predicted threshold.