Network Switch Integrating Power-over-Ethernet and Powerline Communication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Commissioning of commercial and industrial structures often lacks a functional computer network when appliances like HVAC, lighting, and control devices need configuration, and existing solutions for Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) and Powerline Communication (PLC) systems do not provide integrated routing functionality.
Innovation Solution
A network switch with integrated Power-over-Ethernet and Powerline Communication capabilities, featuring multiple ports for both direct-current and alternating-current power transmission, along with a controller and memory for routing data packets based on target addresses, enabling communication over twisted-pair wires and line wires.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If Power-over-Ethernet and Powerline Communication systems are used separately for network commissioning, then networking capability is provided, but device complexity increases and routing functionality is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines Power-over-Ethernet and Powerline Communication functionalities into a single network switch device. The switch includes both PoE ports for DC power transmission and PLC ports for AC power transmission, integrating two separate communication systems into one unified device that provides both networking capabilities and routing functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The network switch is designed with multi-functionality to handle both PoE and PLC communications simultaneously. It can receive data packets from either PoE ports or PLC ports, determine target addresses, and route packets to the appropriate destination ports, making it a universal device for both power transmission and data routing over different electrical infrastructures.
2Use of energy by moving object
If separate PoE and PLC adapters are used, then power and network transmission are achieved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to multiple devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges separate PoE and PLC adapter functions into a single network switch. This unified device eliminates the need for multiple separate adapters during commissioning, reducing operational complexity and making the system easier to deploy while maintaining both DC and AC power transmission capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The network switch serves as a universal device that can transmit power and data over both PoE and PLC infrastructures. It provides a single point of control for network commissioning, allowing appliances to be configured and connected through one device rather than requiring multiple specialized adapters.
3Productivity
If integrated routing functionality is added to PoE systems, then productivity improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates routing functionality directly into the network switch that already handles PoE and PLC communications. The switch includes a controller that can determine target addresses in data packets and route them to appropriate destination ports, combining power transmission and data routing in a single device without requiring separate routing hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The network switch is designed as a multi-functional device that simultaneously provides power transmission over both PoE and PLC infrastructures and implements routing functionality. The controller processes data packets from either port type, determines target addresses, and forwards packets to the correct destination, making the switch a universal solution for both power and data management.
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
Facilitates reduced effort during structure commissioning by establishing a computer network through Power-over-Ethernet and Powerline Communication, combining the strengths of both technologies while avoiding their weaknesses, and providing routing functionality for efficient data packet transmission.
Implementation Method 1
Systems for Powerline Communication (PLC) also combine networking and (alternating current) distribution of electric power. They do so by adding a modulated carrier signal to the ordinary 50 Hz or 60 Hz power signal.
Implementation Method 2
Systems for Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) combine networking and (direct current) distribution of electric power
Data Source
AI summary
A network switch with: Power-over-Ethernet ports to connect to twisted-pair wires and transmit signals with a data packet comprising a target address and direct-current electric power via the twisted-pair wires; a first Powerline Communication port to connect to a pair of line wires supplying alternating-current electric power and to transmit signals with a data packet via the pair of line wires; a controller; and a memory storing target addresses by data packet. The controller may: receive a signal from one of the Power-over-Ethernet ports or the Powerline Communication port; demodulate the inbound signal; produce a data packet from the demodulated inbound signal; determine the target address of the data packet; look up the determined target address; produce an outbound signal modulated for the target port; and send the modulated outbound signal to the target port.