Power Sourcing Equipment Network Profile Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Managing diverse Power over Ethernet (PoE) networks with varying power supplies, allocation priorities, and algorithms across different types and roles of powered devices is challenging due to the lack of a systematic mechanism for power sourcing equipment (PSE) management.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for configuring PSEs using network profiles, where PSEs access a profile database via a network to retrieve and apply configuration parameters, including power priorities, allocation algorithms, and supply information, to manage power distribution efficiently across a diverse set of powered devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If PSEs are deployed with different power supplies and allocation algorithms to support diverse PD roles, then the system can adapt to different PD requirements, but the device complexity and difficulty of managing PSEs increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal profile database that serves all PSEs in the network, allowing a single centralized system to manage diverse PD requirements. The profile database stores multiple profiles that can be applied to different PSEs, enabling one universal mechanism to handle various adaptation needs without increasing individual PSE complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a profile database as an intermediary between PSEs and PDs. This mediator stores configuration parameters, power priorities, and allocation algorithms, allowing PSEs to retrieve appropriate settings without having complex built-in logic for each PD type. The profile database acts as a central repository that simplifies PSE management while maintaining adaptability
2Manufacturing precision
If manual configuration of each PSE is performed to manage power allocation, then precise control over power distribution is achieved, but the time and effort required for configuration increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary configuration by pre-storing power allocation parameters, priorities, and algorithms in the profile database. These configurations are prepared in advance for different PD roles and scenarios. When a PSE needs to be configured, it simply retrieves the pre-prepared profile matching the PD type, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual configuration while maintaining precise control
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses profile copying where standardized configuration templates are created for different PD roles (e.g., VoIP phones, wireless access points, cameras). These profile copies can be retrieved and applied to multiple PSEs, allowing precise power allocation control to be replicated across the network without reconfiguring each PSE individually
3Stability of the object's composition
If centralized management of all PSEs is implemented through a profile database, then consistency in power management is improved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the power management system into two independent parts: a simple profile database for storing configuration data and the PSEs that retrieve and apply profiles. This segmentation allows centralized management consistency to be achieved through the database while keeping individual PSEs simple. The complexity is distributed rather than concentrated, maintaining consistency without overwhelming system complexity
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for power over Ethernet (PoE) configuration for a power sourcing equipment using a network profile. Various types of PSE profile information can be stored in a network database. Upon startup or other configuration setting state, a PSE can retrieve the profile information from the network database and configure its operation based upon such retrieval. Remote configuration of the PSE is thereby enabled.