PLC Network Segmentation via Frequency Filters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional power line networks face scalability issues due to signal propagation characteristics and Medium Access Control (MAC) protocols, leading to low throughput and increased contention as the number of devices increases, with achievable throughput being only 10% of network capacity in networks with thirty devices.
Innovation Solution
The solution involves subdividing the power line network into smaller sections using filters and assigning specific channels and transmission power levels to reduce contention and improve throughput, with PLC devices using channel control logic to manage communication on different frequency bands and transmit power control logic to determine minimum transmission power needed for successful data transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If the number of devices in the PLC network is increased, then network coverage and connectivity are improved, but signal propagation quality deteriorates and contention increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the PLC network into multiple sub-networks using filter circuits that separate different frequency bands. Each sub-network operates independently on a specific frequency band, allowing multiple devices to communicate simultaneously without interference. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by enabling more devices to connect while maintaining signal quality through frequency division.
2Quantity of substance
If the number of devices in the PLC network is increased, then network coverage is improved, but throughput decreases due to increased contention
Solution Approach 1:
The network is segmented into multiple sub-networks operating on different frequency bands using filter circuits. This allows parallel communication channels to exist simultaneously, so devices in different sub-networks can transmit data without contending for the same medium. The achievable throughput is dramatically improved while supporting a large number of devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a frequency dimension to the network by dividing the available spectrum into multiple bands. Each sub-network operates on a different frequency band, creating additional communication dimensions. This allows simultaneous data transmission across multiple frequency channels, increasing overall network throughput while supporting more devices.
3Device complexity
If all devices communicate on the same frequency band, then device simplicity is maintained, but network scalability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The network is divided into sub-networks using filter circuits that separate frequency bands. Devices can be assigned to specific sub-networks based on their communication needs, allowing the network to scale by adding more frequency bands and corresponding filters. This segmentation enables scalability while keeping individual device complexity manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The filter circuits serve multiple functions: they separate frequency bands, define sub-network boundaries, and enable simultaneous parallel communication. This multi-functionality allows the network to scale without requiring fundamentally different device architectures, maintaining device simplicity while increasing network versatility.
4Speed
If transmission power is increased to improve signal reach, then communication range is extended, but energy consumption and interference increase
Solution Approach 1:
The network is divided into sub-networks operating on different frequency bands using filter circuits. Devices transmit at lower power levels on their assigned frequency band, achieving sufficient range within their sub-network without causing excessive interference to other bands. This segmentation allows energy-efficient transmission while maintaining adequate signal reach.
Solution Approach 2:
Filter circuits act as intermediaries that isolate different frequency bands, allowing devices to transmit at lower power levels without causing interference to other sub-networks. The filters mediate between transmission power and interference, enabling energy-efficient communication while maintaining signal reach within each sub-network.
Data Source
AI summary
In accordance with disclosed embodiments, a first power line communication (PLC) device connected to a PLC network includes channel control logic that assigns a first channel of the PLC network for transmission on a power line of PLC data packets between the first PLC device and a second PLC device connected to the PLC network and assigns a second channel of the PLC network for transmission on the power line of PLC data packets between the first PLC device and the third PLC device connected to the PLC network. The PLC device includes a transceiver that receives and transmits PLC data packets on the PLC network and which operates as a bridge device that communicates on both the first and second channels to pass PLC data packets between the second PLC device and the third PLC device.