PoE to USB-C Multiport Switch for Simplified Device Powering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies lack an efficient solution to power multiple USB-C devices using a single Power over Ethernet (PoE) connection, often requiring additional adapters and cables.
Innovation Solution
A PoE to USB-C multiport switch is proposed, which includes a PoE interface, multiple USB-C ports, a multiport Ethernet switch, an Ethernet to USB-C data converter, a power converter, and a USB-C Power Delivery (PD) controller. This setup enables the conversion of PoE signals to USB-C signals, allowing multiple USB-C devices to be powered from a single PoE source.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a single PoE connection is used to power multiple USB-C devices, then the need for additional adapters and cables is eliminated, but the device complexity increases due to the need for power conversion and data protocol translation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions (power conversion, data protocol translation, device negotiation) into a single integrated switch device. The PoE to USB-C switch consolidates what would otherwise require separate adapters and cables into one unified device, simplifying the user's connection setup while managing the internal complexity through integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The switch acts as an intermediary device between the PoE network infrastructure and USB-C powered devices. It mediates the incompatible power and data protocols by converting PoE power delivery to USB-C power delivery and translating Ethernet data protocols to USB-C data protocols, enabling communication and power transfer between incompatible interfaces.
2Adaptability or versatility
If PoE power is converted to USB-C power for multiple devices, then compatibility with USB-C devices is achieved, but power loss increases during voltage conversion
Solution Approach 1:
The switch dynamically adjusts power parameters (voltage, current) based on the specific USB-C device connected and its power requirements. The USB-C Power Delivery controller negotiates power delivery parameters with each device to provide optimal power conversion efficiency, changing operating parameters rather than using fixed conversion ratios.
Solution Approach 2:
The power conversion system is dynamic rather than static. The switch continuously monitors device power requirements and adjusts conversion parameters in real-time. Multiple USB-C ports can operate simultaneously with different power configurations, allowing the system to adapt to changing load conditions and minimize overall power loss.
3Adaptability or versatility
If data protocol conversion is implemented between Ethernet and USB-C, then data communication between different interfaces is enabled, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The switch is designed as a universal device that can handle multiple data protocols and power delivery standards simultaneously. It provides multi-functionality by supporting both PoE and USB-C Power Delivery protocols, and translating between Ethernet and USB-C data interfaces, making it compatible with various device types without requiring separate conversion devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces physical mechanical connections (multiple adapters and cables) with electronic/software-based protocol translation. The data protocol conversion is achieved through electronic circuitry and firmware that translates data packets between Ethernet and USB-C protocols, eliminating the need for multiple physical adaptation layers.
4Quantity of substance
If multiple USB-C ports are provided from a single PoE connection, then the quantity of devices that can be powered increases, but the power distribution management becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The switch segments the single PoE power input into multiple independent USB-C power outputs. Each USB-C port can be independently controlled and negotiated, allowing different power levels to be allocated to different devices based on their requirements. This segmentation enables multiple devices to be powered simultaneously from a single PoE connection with independent power management for each port.
Solution Approach 2:
The switch incorporates feedback mechanisms through USB-C Power Delivery controllers that continuously monitor the power requirements and status of each connected device. This feedback allows the switch to dynamically adjust power distribution, negotiate power contracts with each device, and manage power allocation efficiently across multiple ports based on real-time device needs.
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
The solution effectively powers multiple USB-C devices using a single PoE connection, eliminating the need for additional adapters and cables, while ensuring compliance with IEEE 802.3 POE standards.
Implementation Method 1
Power Converter: Integrated with each USB-C Interface, this power converter steps down the PoE voltage to match the USB-C voltage.
Implementation Method 2
PoE Interface: This interface is responsible for receiving and transmitting PoE signals, which contain PoE power and Ethernet data.
Data Source
AI summary
A power over Ethernet (PoE) to USB-C multiport switch, which includes a PoE interface to receive and transmit PoE power and Ethernet data, multiple USB-C ports to receive and transmit USB-C power and data, and a multiport Ethernet switch configured to receive the Ethernet data from the PoE interface and then distribute to the multiple USB-C ports and vice versa. Each USB-C port incorporates an Ethernet to USB-C data converter and a USB-C PD controller to negotiate power with power device by controlling a power converter. The Ethernet to USB-C data converter transposes the Ethernet data from the PoE interface to the USB-C port and vice versa and converts incoming Ethernet data into USB-C data formats and vice versa, the power converter converts PoE voltage to fit USB-C voltage, and the USB-C PD controller manages conversion of PoE power signal into a power charging signal for the USB-C port.