Power Adapter for PSU with PoE and FMP Input Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional power supply units (PSUs) in network communications devices are costly to modify for different power inputs, limiting flexibility in adopting new or alternative power input methods such as Fault Managed Power (FMP) or Power over Ethernet (PoE).
Innovation Solution
A power adapter that directly attaches to a PSU, converting various power inputs, including Fault Managed Power and Power over Ethernet, to a standard PSU input, allowing for flexible operation without modifying the existing PSU infrastructure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional power supply units are modified to accept different power inputs, then adaptability to new power sources is improved, but manufacturing cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a power adapter as an intermediary device between alternative power sources (such as Power over Ethernet or Fault Managed Power) and conventional power supply units. The adapter converts these alternative power inputs into standard power formats that existing PSUs can accept, enabling adaptability without modifying the original PSU infrastructure. This mediator approach resolves the contradiction by providing versatility through the adapter rather than through costly PSU modifications.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional power supply units are modified to accept different power inputs, then adaptability to new power sources is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the power conversion function into a separate, standalone power adapter module rather than integrating it into the conventional PSU. This segmentation allows the adapter to handle the complexity of supporting multiple power input types while the original PSU remains unchanged and simple. The system complexity is isolated to the adapter component, which can be independently managed and replaced without affecting the core PSU infrastructure.
3Adaptability or versatility
If power adapter is used to convert different power inputs, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power adapter serves as an intermediary that handles the complexity of power conversion externally. It accepts various power input formats (PoE, FMP, traditional AC/DC) and converts them to standard formats compatible with conventional PSUs. This approach improves flexibility while containing complexity within the adapter module rather than the PSU itself, allowing the main system to remain simple and unchanged.
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
Enables the use of different power inputs without altering the conventional PSU, providing a cost-effective solution for network devices to adapt to changing power requirements and ensuring continuous operation with reduced loss and uninterrupted power delivery.
Implementation Method 1
a power converter module for converting the power received at the power input port to a PSU input power
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, an apparatus includes a power adapter configured for direct connection to a Power Supply Unit (PSU) installed in a network device, the power adapter comprising a power input port for receiving power on an Ethernet cable, a power converter module for converting the power received at the power input port to a PSU input power, and a power output connector for connection with a PSU power input connector.