Reverse Power Flow Modem Supply for LiFi Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Optical wireless communication systems, such as LiFi networks, face high power consumption and significant installation challenges due to the need for extensive power supply systems for modulator/demodulator units, which is unsustainable and costly.
Innovation Solution
A power supply architecture that reverses the power flow by selecting a transceiver with the highest available voltage to supply power to the modem, reducing the need for direct mains power connections and allowing transceivers to power down when not in use, thereby minimizing power consumption and installation requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional power supply architecture is used with direct mains power connections to the modem, then the modem can operate reliably, but power consumption is high and installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional power supply architecture by having transceivers supply power to the modem through reverse power flow, instead of the modem receiving power directly from mains. This inversion reduces overall power consumption and eliminates the need for separate mains power connections at the modem location.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service power distribution where transceivers that are already connected to luminaires with power supplies automatically provide power to the modem. The modem serves itself by utilizing the power infrastructure already present at transceiver locations, eliminating the need for additional power installation.
2Reliability
If direct mains power connections are provided to the modem, then the modem can operate continuously, but installation complexity and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply infrastructure at transceiver locations serves multiple functions: it powers the transceivers themselves and simultaneously provides power to the modem through reverse power flow. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate power installation for the modem.
Solution Approach 2:
The transceivers act as intermediaries in the power supply chain, receiving power from luminaires and transmitting it to the modem. This intermediary role simplifies installation by using existing power pathways rather than requiring direct mains connections to the modem.
3Reliability
If multiple transceivers are deployed to provide adequate coverage, then communication reliability improves, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the power supply functions of multiple transceivers to collectively power the modem. By merging their power output through a power combiner, the system achieves adequate communication coverage while sharing the power load, thereby reducing total power consumption compared to each transceiver operating independently at full power.
Data Source
AI summary
This invention relates to a power supply system for an optical wireless communication system where a modem (212) is connected to a plurality of transceivers (11). The underlying idea being that the transceivers (11) are powering the modem (212), rather than the modem (212) powering the transceivers (11). To achieve this, a power combiner is provided that can receive power from the transceivers (11). The transceivers (11) power down when no endpoint is detected and use a subset of emitters, in which case the modem (212) can also be switched to a lower power mode.