Power Line Communications Device Using AC Synchronous Timing
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Solution Overview
Problem
The coexistence of multiple communications devices with different communication standards connected to a common power line results in signal collisions due to incompatible protocols and modulation systems, preventing effective data communication.
Innovation Solution
A communications device that utilizes a synchronous signal based on the AC waveform of the power line to control timing, allowing devices with different phases to match signal transmission and monitoring periods, and includes a control signal for managing communication start and end times, data communication, and coexistence standards, thereby avoiding signal collisions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple communications devices with different standards are connected to a common power line, then the adaptability and versatility of the communication system is improved, but signal collisions occur and communication reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic time-division multiplexing where different communication standards are assigned to different time slots within a periodic cycle. The system divides the communication channel into multiple time periods, with each period dedicated to a specific communication standard or device type. This periodic allocation ensures that devices with different standards transmit at different times, eliminating signal collisions while maintaining support for multiple standards.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the communication channel both in time and frequency domains. Time-division multiplexing splits the channel into different time slots for different standards, while frequency-division multiplexing allocates different frequency bands to different devices or standards. This multi-dimensional segmentation allows multiple communication standards to coexist on the same power line without interference, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and reliability.
2Productivity
If devices transmit signals continuously to maximize data communication efficiency, then productivity is improved, but signal collisions increase and communication reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements periodic transmission schedules where devices transmit data in designated time slots rather than continuously. Each communication device is assigned specific time periods for transmission based on its type and priority. This periodic action maintains high productivity by ensuring continuous utilization of the communication channel across different time slots while preventing collisions through temporal separation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent ensures continuous useful action by implementing overlapping time-division and frequency-division multiplexing schemes. While time slots are divided for different standards, frequency bands within each time slot can be utilized continuously by multiple devices. This approach maintains continuous data flow and high communication efficiency while the time-division framework prevents collisions, thus preserving both productivity and reliability.
3Productivity
If devices use the entire frequency band for communication to maximize bandwidth utilization, then productivity is improved, but interference between different standards increases and reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the frequency band into multiple sub-bands or channels, with each segment allocated to specific communication standards or devices. This frequency-division multiplexing approach divides the available spectrum into discrete frequency slots, allowing different standards to operate in different frequency ranges simultaneously. The segmentation prevents interference between standards while maintaining high overall bandwidth utilization through efficient spectral allocation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies local quality by assigning different frequency characteristics to different communication standards or devices based on their specific requirements. Each device or standard operates with optimized frequency parameters tailored to its characteristics, such as modulation type and data rate requirements. This localized frequency optimization ensures reliable communication for each standard while the aggregate utilization of the entire frequency band maintains high productivity.
Data Source
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Figure 5A~5C
AI summary
A communications device 100, which performs data communication, includes an AC cycle sensor 30 which is connected to a power line 106 supplied with an a.c. voltage and generates a synchronous signal SS at timing of an a.c. voltage waveform AC of the power line 106; a data communicator 10 for performing data communication; and a communications controller 20 which performs communication of a control signal including information showing at least one of a communications device and a communications standard and controls the data communicator 10l. When the a.c. voltage supplied to the power line 106 is an N-phase and when the cycle of the a.c. voltage waveform is T, data communication to be performed in a communication period subsequent to the period is controlled on the basis of the control signal included in the period of T/2M on condition that M is a natural multiple of N.