PLC Node Power State Transition via Orthogonal Wakeup Waveform
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Solution Overview
Problem
Multicarrier communication systems, such as those used in Power Line Communication (PLC), face challenges in managing power consumption efficiently, as the modulation techniques employed for high data rates increase power consumption in transmitters and receivers, especially as devices become smaller and more efficient.
Innovation Solution
A communication system and method that utilize a frame structure including a preamble/header portion and a payload portion, where the payload contains a unique wakeup waveform orthogonal or pseudo-orthogonal to the preamble/header, enabling nodes to transition from a reduced power state to a higher power state, specifically designed for PLC networks to manage power consumption effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multicarrier modulation techniques are used to achieve high data rates, then data transmission capability is improved, but power consumption of transmitter and receiver increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic power state transitions for communication nodes, allowing them to switch between reduced power state and higher power state based on communication needs. Nodes can enter reduced power state during idle periods and transition to higher power state when data transmission is required, optimizing the balance between data transmission capability and power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic wake-up signals to activate nodes from reduced power state. Instead of maintaining continuous high power operation, nodes periodically wake up to check for incoming data, process communications, and then return to reduced power state. This periodic action pattern reduces overall power consumption while maintaining data transmission capabilities when needed.
2Speed
If nodes remain in higher power state to ensure immediate data transmission, then data transmission responsiveness is improved, but overall energy efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a wake-up signal mechanism that performs preliminary action to activate nodes before actual data transmission begins. When data needs to be transmitted to a node in reduced power state, a wake-up signal is sent first to alert the node and trigger its transition to higher power state. This preliminary activation ensures that nodes are ready for immediate data transmission when needed, while spending most time in energy-saving state.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback mechanisms where nodes monitor for wake-up signals and respond by transitioning power states accordingly. The wake-up signal mechanism provides feedback to nodes about incoming data, enabling them to adjust their power state dynamically. This feedback-driven approach ensures nodes maintain responsiveness to data transmission needs while optimizing energy efficiency through state transitions.
Data Source
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AI summary
Representative implementations of devices and techniques provide an efficient communication that enables nodes in a reduced power consumption state to resume a regular power state (e.g., fully operational) or otherwise another power state (e.g., semi-operational) after processing the communication.