Power Switching Circuit for Ethernet and DC Power Sources
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional network equipment requires multiple connections for power and data, leading to complex wiring, and while Power-Over-Ethernet (POE) provides power via Ethernet, it is not sufficient for continuous operation, necessitating a secondary power supply and an efficient switching mechanism between power sources.
Innovation Solution
A power switching apparatus with a switching circuit that connects to both Ethernet and DC power terminals, allowing seamless switching between power sources, ensuring continuous operation by cutting off Ethernet power when DC power is available, thereby avoiding power wastage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If Power-Over-Ethernet is used to provide power via network wire, then wiring complexity is reduced, but power supply reliability deteriorates due to potential POE module breakdown
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies prior cushioning by providing a backup DC power supply interface and switching circuitry before the POE module fails. The system proactively prepares an alternative power path so that when the POE module breaks down, the network equipment can seamlessly switch to DC power supply, preventing operational interruption and cushioning against the reliability risk.
2Reliability
If a secondary power supply is added to ensure continuous operation, then power supply reliability is improved, but device complexity increases due to switching requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by implementing a detection circuit that automatically monitors the POE module status and triggers the switching mechanism without external intervention. The system serves itself by autonomously detecting power supply failures and switching to the backup DC power source, eliminating the need for complex manual switching controls while maintaining reliability.
3Reliability
If both POE and DC power supplies are connected simultaneously, then power supply reliability is improved, but power wastage increases due to simultaneous power delivery
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies inversion by reversing the conventional approach of always enabling both power sources. Instead, the system inverts the logic by defaulting to POE power and only activating DC power supply when the POE module is detected to be broken. This inversion eliminates unnecessary power wastage while maintaining reliability through conditional dual-power availability.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention provides a power switching apparatus used in a network equipment in order to switch power generated by the Ethernet and an D.C. power supply. The power switching apparatus comprises a first input port used to connect to a first power terminal; a second input port used to connect to a second power terminal; an output port used to output a voltage; a switching circuit connected to the first input port, the second input port and the output port, wherein the switching circuit cuts off the output voltage generated by the first power terminal and outputs the voltage generated by the second power terminal while the second power terminal is plugged into the second input port.