PoE Field-Side Circuit Reduces Wiring Complexity

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing control systems face complexity in wiring during installation and require additional features and reduced components in configurable input-output channels, particularly in industrial applications where various types of sensors and devices need to be interfaced.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of a field-side circuit with universal and independent configurable input-output interfaces that utilize Power-over-Ethernet modules for power and communication, enabling each channel to function as digital, analog, or a combination of inputs and outputs through A/D and D/A conversion paths, and are reconfigurable via commands, reducing wiring complexity and enhancing modular design.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If traditional configurable input-output channels are used with separate power and communication wiring, then device functionality is maintained, but wiring complexity increases during installation

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvewiring complexityVSAvoidinstallation ease

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines power delivery and data communication into a single Ethernet infrastructure using Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) technology. The PoE injector integrates power supply and data transmission functions, eliminating separate power wiring and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining full device functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The control device employs universal PoE interfaces that can serve multiple functions - both power supply and data communication through the same Ethernet connection. This multi-functional approach allows a single cable to replace traditional separate power and communication wiring, simplifying installation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple separate input-output components are used for different sensor types, then device compatibility is maintained, but component quantity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedevice compatibilityVSAvoidcomponent quantity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements universal PoE interfaces that can adapt to work with multiple types of field devices including sensors, actuators, and control devices. The single PoE interface design eliminates the need for separate dedicated components for different device types, reducing component quantity while maintaining broad compatibility through software configuration and protocol support.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS10432412B2Process control device using power over ethernet with configurable analog and digital interface

Publication Date: 2019.10.01 GE INFRASTRUCTURE TECH LLC

AI summary

Exemplified methods and systems are disclosed that facilitate field devices controlled by networks using Power-over-Ethernet. The field device includes a field-side circuit having a plurality of universal and independent configurable (and re-configurable) input-output interface that can universally interface to most industrial field devices. Each channel employs a group of analog-to-digital (A/D) conversion and digital-to-analog (D/A) conversion paths that facilitate independent data flows in which signals are not multiplexed across individual interfaces. In addition, the field-side circuit operatively couples to a control side circuit with two Power-over-Ethernet modules, e.g., for redundancy, that each facilitates communication and power to the field-side circuit while, concurrently, reducing wiring complexity for a redundant system during installation.