Power Signal Merging in Network Interface Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing network solutions require separate power connections for devices, leading to increased installation costs, potential hazards, and reduced reliability, especially during power failures.
Innovation Solution
A network interface device that combines power and data distribution using a PoE system, featuring powered device controllers and a dc-dc converter to merge multiple power signals, allowing power to be supplied over Ethernet cables, eliminating the need for separate power connections and providing a UPS-like functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate power connections are used for each network device, then each device can receive adequate power, but installation costs increase and physical hazards increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple power supply lines (first and second power supply lines) into a single merged power signal that is transmitted over a single network cable. This merging eliminates the need for multiple separate power connections, AC to DC adapters, and power supplies, thereby reducing physical hazards while maintaining reliable power delivery to the network device.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables a single network cable to perform multiple functions: transmitting both data signals and merged power signals. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate power infrastructure, reducing installation costs and physical hazards while ensuring reliable power supply through the unified power delivery mechanism.
2Reliability
If separate power connections are used for each network device, then power can be delivered to devices, but the number of power cables and adapters increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple power supply lines into a single power signal that travels over one network cable. This consolidation reduces the number of power cables, AC to DC adapters, and power supplies from multiple separate components to a single integrated solution, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining reliable power delivery.
Solution Approach 2:
The network cable is designed to universally handle both data transmission and power delivery functions. By making the cable multi-functional, the patent eliminates the need for separate power cables and adapters, reducing the overall number of components and simplifying the power delivery infrastructure.
3Ease of manufacture
If power is distributed over the network, then installation costs are reduced and hazards are minimized, but multiple power signals need to be merged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a merging circuit that combines multiple power supply lines into a single power signal. This merging mechanism, while adding some circuit complexity, enables power to be distributed over the network using existing infrastructure, thereby reducing installation costs and hazards. The merging circuit integrates multiple power sources efficiently to create a unified power delivery system.
4Reliability
If traditional power supplies are used, then devices have dedicated power sources, but fire hazards and physical hazards increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple power supply lines into a single integrated power delivery system that transmits power over the network cable. This eliminates the need for traditional separate power supplies, AC to DC adapters, and multiple power cables that create fire and physical hazards. The merged power signal delivers reliable power while minimizing hazards through unified, controlled power transmission.
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 reduces installation costs, enhances reliability by consolidating power and data communications, and minimizes physical hazards by eliminating the need for multiple power cables and adapters, while providing a reliable power source during traditional power failures.
Implementation Method 1
A dc-dc converter coupled to receive a single signal representing a sum of power signals output by the first and second powered device controllers
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments disclosed herein describe a network interface device including a first powered device controller coupled to first and second power supply lines. A second powered device controller coupled to third and fourth input power supply lines. A dc-dc converter coupled to receive a single signal representing a sum of power signals output by the first and second powered device controllers.