Redundancy Power Switch for Communication Lines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing 1:1 redundancy configurations in communications devices rely on bulky and expensive relays or Line Interface Units (LIUs) for switching between active and standby lines, which are inefficient and impair signal integrity during power loss.
Innovation Solution
A redundancy power switch system using a Y-cable to provide auxiliary power between active and standby lines, eliminating the need for common power from a backplane and enabling high impedance state maintenance without relays or LIUs, utilizing a power switch and low dropout voltage regulator to manage power delivery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If relays or LIUs are used for switching between active and standby lines, then switching functionality is achieved, but device size and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical relays and LIUs with a power switch circuit that uses electronic components (MOSFETs, diodes, capacitors) to achieve switching functionality. The power switch circuit is significantly smaller than mechanical relays and eliminates the need for bulky LIU hardware while maintaining the ability to switch between active and standby lines.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the switching functionality from the traditional relay/LIU hardware and implements it through a dedicated power switch circuit. This separates the switching function from the general-purpose hardware, allowing for a more compact design that uses only the necessary electronic components rather than full LIU assemblies.
2Ease of operation
If relays or LIUs are used for switching, then switching capability is provided, but power loss during failure conditions impairs signal integrity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by ensuring the standby line is pre-charged through capacitor C2 before a failure occurs. When the active line fails, the pre-charged capacitor immediately provides the necessary power to maintain signal integrity without waiting for power restoration or external power sources. This preliminary charging ensures rapid response and maintains reliability during power loss conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces capacitor C2 as an intermediary energy storage element between the power supply and the standby line. This capacitor acts as a mediator that stores electrical energy and releases it during power loss conditions, ensuring continuous operation and maintaining signal integrity without requiring direct connection to external power sources during failures.
3Reliability
If 1:1 redundancy configuration is implemented with standby line, then reliability is improved, but additional hardware and power requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing the power switch circuit to serve multiple functions: normal operation mode, failure switching mode, and power loss mode. The same circuit components (MOSFETs, diodes, capacitors) handle all these functions, eliminating the need for separate hardware for each function and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining 1:1 redundancy protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the power switching function and the power loss protection function into a single integrated circuit. The power switch circuit combines the normal switching operation with the failure detection and power loss protection capabilities, eliminating the need for separate hardware systems and reducing overall device complexity.
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 power consumption, eliminates the need for bulky relays, and maintains signal integrity during power loss, enhancing the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of 1:1 redundancy configurations in communications devices.
Implementation Method 1
employing a power switch and low dropout voltage regulator (LDO) to maintain high impedance and provide power to the standby line during failures
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method to provide redundant power to a failing line in a communication device within a communication network supporting the transmission and reception of data. Through the use of a common Y-Cable connector, a power switch is provided to provide power between an active line and a standby line to maintain a high impedance state should one line fail.