Integrated PoE and MoCA Power Supply for Basement Wiring

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing infrastructure for satellite-based services and network devices often requires multiple power outlets, leading to hazardous conditions due to the lack of electrical outlets in areas like basements, where modem and router power supplies are typically located, especially with the need for separate power for IPRadio units.

Innovation Solution

A power supply system that converts input voltage into multiple DC outputs, utilizing both Ethernet and MoCA ports to supply power and data to network devices and satellite antenna units, reducing the need for separate power sources by integrating power and data transmission through a common cable.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Use of energy by moving object

If separate power outlets are installed to power modem, router, and IPRadio units, then power availability is improved, but installation complexity and safety hazards increase due to basement wiring requirements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower availabilityVSAvoidinstallation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines power delivery and data transmission into a single Ethernet cable using Power over Ethernet (PoE) technology. The Ethernet cable integrates both electrical power conductors and data communication conductors, allowing simultaneous delivery of power and data through one cable connection, thereby eliminating the need for separate power outlets and reducing installation complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The Ethernet cable is designed to serve multiple functions simultaneously: it provides data communication, power delivery, and device identification. The PoE infrastructure allows a single cable type to fulfill multiple roles that traditionally required separate cables and outlets, simplifying the overall system architecture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Use of energy by moving object

If extension cords and power strips are used to increase power outlets, then power availability is improved, but safety hazards increase due to potential connection risks

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower availabilityVSAvoidsafety hazards
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

By merging power delivery and data transmission into a single integrated Ethernet cable system, the patent eliminates the need for extension cords and power strips. The PoE technology delivers power through the same cable used for data, removing temporary or additional power connection points that could create safety hazards.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If IPRadio power is supplied from indoor unit, then device functionality is improved, but power outlet requirements increase in basement areas

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice functionalityVSAvoidpower outlet requirements
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges power delivery for the IPRadio into the Ethernet cable infrastructure. The PoE system allows the IPRadio to receive power through the same cable that carries data, eliminating the need for separate power outlets in basement areas while maintaining full device functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

This solution allows for safe and efficient power distribution to both network devices and satellite antenna units, reducing the risk of hazardous conditions by consolidating power and data transmission, thereby eliminating the need for additional power outlets.

Implementation Method 1

a first converter for converting the input voltage to a first DC voltage

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectVoltage conversion:

Implementation Method 2

a second converter for converting the input voltage to a second DC voltage

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectVoltage conversion:

Data Source

PatentUS10862578B2Power supply with integrated MoCA and power over ethernet (PoE)
Publication Date: 2020.12.08 HUGHES NETWORK SYST
  • US10862578B2 patent drawing
  • US10862578B2 patent drawing
  • US10862578B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An apparatus and system for supplying power to different devices at different levels. The apparatus includes an input port for receiving power from an external source. A first converter is provided for converting the input power to a first DC voltage, and a second converter for converting the input power to a second DC voltage. Ethernet ports are provided for supplying, at least in part, the first DC voltage to a first type of device. MoCA ports are provided for supplying, at least in part, the second DC voltage to a second type of device.