Signal Adapter Circuit for Optical-to-Copper Data and Power Delivery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing network devices that require both data signals and low power cannot efficiently receive these signals and power through copper wire connectors like SPE or RJ-45, necessitating external power supplies.
Innovation Solution
A signal adapter device with a transceiver, boost circuit, and mixing circuit that converts optical signals to electrical signals and boosts power voltage, combining data and power into a single output signal for devices like light sensors and temperature sensors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If devices receive only data signals through copper wire connectors, then data transmission is achieved, but devices with low power consumption requirements cannot operate without external power supplies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines data signal transmission and power supply functions into a single copper wire connector interface. The signal adapter merges the optical data signal path with the electrical power path, allowing both data and power to be transmitted simultaneously through the same SPE or RJ-45 connector, thereby eliminating the need for separate external power supplies.
Solution Approach 2:
The copper wire connector is made multi-functional by enabling it to carry both data signals and power simultaneously. The signal adapter circuitry processes the incoming optical signal to generate both data output and power output through the same connector interface, making the connector universal for both data communication and power delivery.
2Adaptability or versatility
If optical signals are converted to electrical signals and power is boosted, then devices can operate without external power, but additional circuit components are required
Solution Approach 1:
The signal adapter acts as an intermediary device between the optical switch and the low-power network device. It receives the optical signal, converts it to electrical form, extracts power, boosts the voltage, and delivers both data and power through the copper wire connector. This intermediary function enables compatibility between optical networks and low-power devices without requiring changes to the devices themselves.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the electrical parameters of the signal during processing. The optical signal is converted to electrical signals with different voltage levels, and the power component undergoes voltage boosting from a lower level to a higher level suitable for low-power devices. These parameter changes enable the signal to simultaneously carry both data and adequate power through the same medium.
3Power
If power voltage is boosted to supply adequate power, then low-power devices can operate, but energy loss increases during conversion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical power supply systems with an optical-based power transmission system. Instead of using separate power cables or external adapters, the system uses optical signals that are converted to electrical power through photodetection and voltage boosting circuits. This substitution reduces energy loss by eliminating intermediate power conversion stages and using more efficient optical-to-electrical conversion methods.
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 devices to operate without external power by converting optical signals to electrical signals and boosting power, ensuring seamless data and power transmission via copper wire connectors.
Implementation Method 1
a transceiver, coupled to the input interface, configured to receive a first data signal through the input interface, and convert the first data signal into a second data signal
Implementation Method 2
a boost circuit, coupled to the input interface, configured to receive a first supply power having a first voltage through the input interface, and convert the first supply power into a second supply power having a second voltage, wherein the second voltage is greater than the first voltage
Data Source
AI summary
A signal adapter device, covered with a small form-factor pluggable (SFP) module, the signal adapter device includes an input interface; a transceiver, coupled to the input interface, configured to receive a first data signal through the input interface, and convert the first data signal into a second data signal; a boost circuit, coupled to the input interface, configured to receive a first supply power having a first voltage through the input interface, and convert the first supply power into a second supply power having a second voltage, wherein the second voltage is greater than the first voltage; a mixing circuit, coupled to the transceiver and the boost circuit, configured to mix the second data signal and the second supply power into an output signal; and an output interface, coupled to the mixing circuit, configured to output the output signal.