Pulsed Power Bus Data Transmission via AC Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for providing power and data over a bus are either expensive due to the need for modems and transformers, or bulky and costly due to galvanic coupling, especially in applications requiring multiple slave units like rechargeable energy storage systems.
Innovation Solution
A system that uses a single bus for both power and data transmission by modulating power pulses to convey data, with slave units AC-coupled via series capacitors, allowing for galvanic separation and reducing hardware complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If Power Line Communication (PLC) with modems is used for data transmission over power conductors, then data communication capability is improved, but device cost and board space increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines power transmission and data communication into a single bus system. The same electrical conductors that carry power are also used for data transmission by modulating the power signal itself, eliminating the need for separate communication channels and modems at each device end.
Solution Approach 2:
The power bus serves dual functions: it provides electrical power to slave units and simultaneously carries data information through modulation of the power signal characteristics (frequency, amplitude, or pulse timing). This multi-functionality removes the need for dedicated communication hardware.
2Reliability
If transformers are used for galvanic isolation in Power Line Communication systems, then galvanic separation is improved, but device size and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a coupling capacitor as an intermediary element between the power bus and slave units. This capacitor provides galvanic isolation by blocking DC while allowing AC signal passage, replacing bulky transformers with a compact capacitive coupling mechanism that achieves the same isolation function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/physical transformer structure with an electrical capacitive coupling mechanism. This substitution maintains galvanic isolation functionality while dramatically reducing component size, weight, and cost.
3Reliability
If separate data bus and power bus are used with opto-coupling, then galvanic separation is improved, but board space and component cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the power bus and data bus into a single shared communication channel. Data is transmitted by modulating the power signal itself, allowing both power delivery and information transfer over the same physical conductors, thereby eliminating separate data bus infrastructure and opto-coupling components.
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 approach enables efficient, cost-effective, and compact transmission of power and data to multiple slave units, reducing the need for additional hardware and minimizing bulk, while maintaining reliable communication.
Implementation Method 1
each slave unit being AC-coupled to the first bus by means of a first series capacitor, each first series capacitor being arranged for converting the first pulses provided at its input into second pulses at its output
Implementation Method 2
the main control unit being adapted for sending data to the at least one slave unit by modulating the plurality of first pulses
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
A method and system for providing pulsed power and data from a main control unit (420) to slave units (415) via a first bus (430). The main control unit comprises an AC signal generator (414) for providing a plurality of first pulses (P1) on the bus for providing the power to the slave units (415). Each slave unit is AC-coupled to the bus via a first series capacitor (419) arranged for converting the first pulses (P1) into second pulses (P2). Data communication from the main control unit to the slave units is established by modulating the first pulses (P1), and by demodulating the second pulses (P2). The modulation may be based on Pulse Position Modulation. Zero, one or more bits may be communicated per first pulse. Optionally the slave units may communicate to the main control unit via a second bus (440).