Power Line Modem Noise Control via SMPS Switching Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Power line communication systems face degradation due to environmental electrical interference and high attenuation caused by appliances with switched-mode power supplies, leading to reduced signal-to-noise ratio and bandwidth.
Innovation Solution
Modifying the operating parameters of switched-mode power supplies to reduce power line noise by suspending frequency fluctuation, reducing DC power output, and synchronizing power supply operations with data transmission to minimize interference, including frequency hopping and power management techniques.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If appliances with switched-mode power supplies are attached to the power line, then power delivery is improved, but signal-to-noise ratio and bandwidth are reduced due to switching noise interference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by synchronizing the switched-mode power supply operations with the data transmission timing. The power supply switching is coordinated to occur during periods when data transmission is not taking place or during less critical transmission phases, creating a periodic pattern that minimizes interference while maintaining continuous power delivery.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by making the power supply switching frequency and timing adjustable and adaptive. The system dynamically modifies the operating parameters of the switched-mode power supply based on detected data transmission conditions, allowing the power delivery characteristics to change in response to communication requirements, thereby reducing noise during critical transmission periods.
2Loss of energy
If switched-mode power supplies operate at high frequency, then power conversion efficiency is improved, but power line noise and interference increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses periodic action by implementing intermittent high-frequency switching rather than continuous operation. The switched-mode power supply operates at high frequency only during specific time windows when data transmission is not occurring, while using lower frequency or alternative power delivery methods during data transmission periods, thus reducing overall noise while maintaining efficiency during non-critical periods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by detecting data transmission timing in advance and pre-coordinating the power supply switching schedule accordingly. The system anticipates when high-frequency operation would cause interference and proactively schedules power conversion operations during safe time windows, preventing noise generation before transmission critical periods begin.
3Productivity
If data transmission occurs continuously, then bandwidth utilization is improved, but interference from power supply switching increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by creating a time-division multiplexing pattern where data transmission and high-power switching operations are separated into different time slots. The system alternates between data transmission periods and power conversion periods, allowing both functions to operate at high effectiveness without simultaneous interference, thus maintaining good bandwidth utilization while reducing interference.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics by making the data transmission scheduling adaptive to power supply operations. The system dynamically adjusts transmission timing and data rate based on the coordinated power supply schedule, optimizing bandwidth utilization during low-interference periods while accepting reduced activity during necessary switching periods, creating a flexible balance between productivity and interference reduction.
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 1c
Figure 2~3
AI summary
In accordance with an embodiment, a method of operating an electronic system includes detecting an incoming transmission on a power line, and modifying a switching behavior of a switched-mode power supply coupled to the power line upon detecting the incoming transmission. Modifying reduces the level of interference produced by the switchedmode power supply.