PoE Injector Sleep Mode for Power Efficiency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Power over Ethernet (PoE) systems face inefficiencies in power delivery and generate greenhouse gases due to low power supply energy use efficiency, requiring additional interface circuitry for extended cable lengths and inefficient DC power distribution.
Innovation Solution
A Power over Ethernet apparatus and system that includes conductive terminals, a controller, and a power gate, where the terminals are connected or disconnected based on power signal reception from the powered device, optimizing voltage supply and reducing power consumption by a factor of at least 10 when not in use, utilizing a power supply with multiple voltage outputs and switches to manage current flow efficiently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If PoE systems continuously supply power to the controller and interface circuitry, then the system is ready to operate immediately when a device is connected, but power consumption remains high even when no device is connected
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses periodic detection of power signals from connected devices to determine when to activate the controller and interface circuitry. Instead of continuous operation, the system periodically checks for device presence and only consumes significant power when a device is actually connected and needs service.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically transitions between different operational states: a low-power standby mode when no device is connected, and an active mode when a device is connected. The controller and interface circuitry are activated only when needed, allowing the system to adapt its power consumption to actual operational requirements.
2Length of stationary object
If PoE systems use traditional interface circuitry to extend DC power supply over long cable lengths, then power can be delivered to remote devices, but power delivery efficiency decreases and additional circuitry is required
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the voltage parameter of the power signal to optimize power delivery. By detecting power signals at different voltage levels and adjusting the return voltage accordingly, the system can efficiently deliver power over extended cable lengths without requiring additional interface circuitry, thereby reducing energy loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the second terminal and power gate as intermediary elements to detect power signals from connected devices and to provide return voltage. This intermediary detection mechanism allows the system to extend power delivery capability while maintaining efficiency and avoiding the need for complex additional interface circuitry.
3Speed
If PoE systems maintain active controller and power gate, then device connection can be immediately detected and serviced, but power is consumed continuously even when devices are disconnected
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs periodic sampling of power signals at the conductive terminals to detect device connections. The controller and power gate are activated only when a power signal is detected, allowing the system to maintain quick detection capability while avoiding continuous power consumption during idle periods.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the power signal from the connected device itself to activate the controller and power gate. When a device is connected, its power signal automatically triggers the activation of the control circuitry, eliminating the need for separate continuous monitoring and reducing idle power consumption.
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
Substantially improves power efficiency and reduces greenhouse gas emissions by minimizing power consumption when the powered device is disconnected, achieving a significant reduction in overall energy use compared to existing PoE systems.
Implementation Method 1
The power gate is connected electrically to the second terminal and the controller. The power gate activates the controller in the first mode in response to receiving the first power signal from the powered device through the second terminal.
Implementation Method 2
The plurality of conductive terminals is connected electrically to a powered device in a first mode and disconnected electrically from the powered device in a second mode.
Data Source
AI summary
A Power over Ethernet (PoE) system and method that can provide greater power efficiency and reduces greenhouse gas emissions is described. The PoE system includes power supply equipment, Ethernet cabling, and a powered device. When a load is not present at the end of the Ethernet cabling, an injector in the power supply equipment enters a sleep state, thus conserving power and increasing efficiency. When the injector is electrically connected to a load, such as the powered device, a circuit in the injector activates power to a digital control logic and subsequently provides power to a sensing conductor in the Ethernet cable, thereby enabling high efficiency power transfer.