Adaptive Fault Sensing in Pulse Power Over Data Cables

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional Power over Ethernet (PoE) systems are limited in range and power capacity, unable to efficiently deliver high power to devices like remote radio heads and access points, requiring additional AC outlets or local power sources, which are costly and impractical in some locations.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of a pulse power system that delivers high voltage pulse power over data cables with integrated fault detection and safety protection, enabling safe and efficient power delivery to multiple devices from a central hub, using multi-phase pulse power to achieve continuous power delivery and reduce installation complexity.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Power

If conventional PoE systems deliver power over data cables, then power delivery is enabled to network devices, but the power capacity and delivery distance are limited to a few meters to about one hundred meters

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower capacityVSAvoiddelivery distance
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSLength of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements pulse power delivery with periodic on/off cycles, where power is delivered in controlled pulses rather than continuously. This allows the system to manage power capacity and delivery distance by adjusting pulse width, duty cycle, and frequency, overcoming the limitations of conventional continuous PoE delivery

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically adjusts power delivery parameters including voltage level, current, pulse duration, and timing based on real-time conditions. This dynamic control enables the system to optimize power capacity and extend delivery distance by adapting to varying load requirements and cable characteristics

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Power

If high power is delivered over extended distances, then power capacity and range are improved, but safety risks and fault detection complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower delivery capabilityVSAvoidsafety and fault detection
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary actions including cable capacitance testing, impedance measurement, and safety validation before initiating high power delivery. These preliminary checks ensure the cable and connected devices can safely handle the intended power levels, preventing safety incidents and enabling reliable high-power operation over extended distances

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements continuous feedback mechanisms that monitor power delivery conditions, cable status, and device health in real-time. This feedback enables the system to detect faults, adjust power levels, and maintain safety while delivering high power over extended distances by constantly adapting to changing conditions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Power

If additional power sources are installed to provide power to remote devices, then power availability is improved, but installation complexity and costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower availabilityVSAvoidinstallation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables data cables to serve dual functions by simultaneously transmitting both data and power over the same infrastructure. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate power sources at remote locations, reducing installation complexity and costs while maintaining power availability to devices throughout the network

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS12126399B2Fault managed power with dynamic and adaptive fault sensor
Publication Date: 2024.10.22 CISCO TECHNOLOGY INC
  • US12126399B2 patent drawing
  • US12126399B2 patent drawing
  • US12126399B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Techniques are provided for detecting a fault across a pair of lines. Pulse power is applied across the pair of lines. The pulse power comprises alternating pulse on-time intervals and pulse off-time intervals. During a pulse off-time interval, a resistor is connected across the pair of lines and then disconnected when a voltage across the pair of lines reaches a first droop percentage in a first period of time. After disconnecting the resistor, it is determined whether the voltage across the pair of lines droops at least a second droop percentage within a second period of time that begins after the first period of time. Occurrence of a line-to-line fault across the pair of lines is determined when the voltage across the pair of lines droops by at least the second droop percentage or more within the second period of time.