Power Line Data Interface Using Impedance Modulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems face challenges in minimizing the number of contacts between electronic devices for signal transfer, particularly in small form factor devices, while ensuring reliable data and power transmission, and maintaining noise immunity.
Innovation Solution
A power sourcing device with resistive impedances inserted into power and ground lines, using differential mode direct binary phase-shift keying and a tank capacitor to stabilize voltage, allowing data transmission over a two-contact power line interface, and automatically shorting impedances when not in use to conserve power.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the number of contacts between electronic devices is reduced, then manufacturing complexity and reliability are improved, but the ability to transmit multiple signal types (power, data, control) is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple signal transmission functions (power delivery, data communication, control signals) into a single contact interface. The power line carries both power and modulated data signals simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate dedicated contacts for each function type.
Solution Approach 2:
The power line interface is designed to serve multiple purposes: it delivers power to the device, transmits bidirectional data through modulation techniques, and carries control signals. This multi-functional approach allows a single contact pair to replace what would traditionally require multiple separate connections.
2Adaptability or versatility
If modulated carrier signal is added to power wiring for data transmission, then data transmission capability is improved, but device complexity and power loss increase due to bulky inductive impedance and complex modulation/demodulation requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical/modular modulation components with a simplified electrical approach using a tank circuit (LC oscillator) and direct voltage modulation. Instead of bulky inductive impedance and complex carrier modulation, the system uses straightforward voltage level changes on the power line to encode data bits.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the voltage parameter of the power line to encode data. By varying the voltage level on the power line between different states (e.g., present/absent or high/low), the system transmits data without requiring complex modulation schemes. The receiver detects these voltage changes to recover the transmitted information.
3Adaptability or versatility
If impedance is inserted into power and ground lines for data transmission, then data communication capability is improved, but power delivery efficiency is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses periodic switching of the impedance elements synchronized with the data transmission intervals. The impedance is activated only during data communication periods and deactivated during power delivery periods, minimizing its impact on overall power efficiency while enabling bidirectional data exchange when needed.
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 enables efficient data transmission over power lines with minimal contacts, enhancing reliability and noise immunity, while reducing manufacturing complexity and power consumption.
Implementation Method 1
a tank capacitor between power line and ground line, outside the first impedance and second impedance
Implementation Method 2
The modulator may cause current fluctuations across the power line and ground line
Implementation Method 3
The first impedance and second impedance create a voltage dip, and the comparator is adapted to detect the voltage dip
Data Source
AI summary
A first device provides both power and data to a second device over a power line connection between the two devices. The first device includes a power line extending from a power supply, a ground line extending from a ground, a first impedance in the power line, and a second impedance in the ground line. A modulator comprised of a transistor and modulator impedance is between the first impedance and the second impedance, and a tank capacitor is between the power line and the ground line, outside the first impedance and second impedance. A comparator is coupled between the first and second impedance. A switch may be included to short out the first and second impedance, thereby enabling transmission of only power for period of time, and return to a mode of transmitting both data and power. The first device may also receive data from the second device over the power line connection.