PoE Cable Resistor Verification and Safe Removal

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional Power over Ethernet (PoE) systems do not adequately verify cable and connector compatibility for higher power applications exceeding 100 W, leading to potential damage during cable removal due to high current levels at connectors.

Innovation Solution

Integration of resistor networks in cables and connectors for auto-compliance verification, along with an online removal module that reduces power to prevent damage during cable extraction, ensuring safe operation and removal by identifying correct cable/connector assemblies and adjusting power levels accordingly.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Power

If conventional PoE systems operate at high power levels exceeding 100 W, then power delivery capability is improved, but cable and connector compatibility verification is insufficient leading to potential damage during cable removal

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower delivery capabilityVSAvoidcable and connector compatibility verification
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary verification of cable and connector compatibility by detecting resistor values at the plug before full power delivery is activated. This preliminary check ensures the cable system can handle the intended power level, preventing damage during operation and removal.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses feedback from resistor detection to determine cable power rating and adjust power delivery accordingly. The PSE detects resistor values, determines compatibility, and provides appropriate feedback control to ensure safe operation at the verified power level.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Power

If high current levels are used in higher power PoE applications, then power delivery is improved, but damage risk during cable removal is increased

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower deliveryVSAvoiddamage risk during cable removal
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The system applies preliminary anti-action by reducing power to a safe level before cable removal is initiated. The online removal module detects removal intent and preemptively reduces current to prevent arcing or damage at the connector during the removal process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #9Preliminary anti-action

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically adjusts power levels based on operational state. During normal operation, high power is delivered for optimal performance; during removal, power is dynamically reduced to a safe level to prevent damage, allowing the system to adapt to changing conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Reliability

If resistor networks are integrated in cables and connectors for verification, then cable compatibility verification is improved, but device complexity is increased

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecable compatibility verificationVSAvoidresistor network integration
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The cable system performs self-verification through integrated resistor networks that automatically indicate power rating and compatibility. The resistors are built into the plug and connector, enabling the cable system to self-identify its capabilities without external verification equipment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system replaces manual cable verification and power rating determination with automated electrical detection of resistor values. Instead of mechanical labeling or manual checking, the PSE electronically detects resistor values to determine cable compatibility and power rating.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

4Object-affected harmful factors

If online removal module reduces power before cable extraction, then safety during removal is improved, but power delivery continuity is disrupted

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedamage prevention during removalVSAvoidpower delivery continuity
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSDuration of action of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The online removal module performs preliminary power reduction before the cable is fully extracted. By detecting removal intent in advance and reducing power beforehand, the system prevents damage while minimizing disruption to power delivery during the transition period.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS11327126B2Verification of cable application and reduced load cable removal in power over communications systems
Publication Date: 2022.05.10 CISCO TECHNOLOGY INC
  • US11327126B2 patent drawing
  • US11327126B2 patent drawing
  • US11327126B2 patent drawing

AI summary

In one embodiment, an apparatus includes a cable for transmitting power and data from power sourcing equipment to a powered device in a Power over Ethernet (PoE) system, and plugs at each end of the cable, at least one of the plugs comprising at least one resistor, wherein power capacity of the cable is identified at the power sourcing equipment receiving one of the plugs based on the at least one resistor.