Smart Power Device DC Signal Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power distribution systems in buildings face inefficiencies as they require substantial wiring to handle varying loads and must convert alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC) for devices like televisions and computers, which increases complexity and costs.
Innovation Solution
A system that generates direct current power signals on multiple lines, allowing each load device to receive power through a different line and communicate data via the same conductors, enabling the power device to adjust power levels based on received data to match the requirements of individual devices, thereby eliminating the need for AC to DC conversion at each load.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If AC power distribution with substantial wiring is used to handle varying loads, then power delivery capability is improved, but wiring cost and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines power delivery and data communication functions into a single infrastructure. Power devices generate DC power signals on building wiring conductors, and load communicators use the same conductors to transmit data back to power devices, eliminating the need for separate communication networks and reducing overall system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The building wiring conductors serve multiple functions: they deliver DC power to load devices and simultaneously carry communication data. This multi-functional use of existing infrastructure reduces the need for additional wiring and simplifies installation
2Adaptability or versatility
If AC to DC conversion is performed at each load device, then device compatibility is improved, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the AC to DC conversion function from individual load devices and centralizes it in power devices located at the electrical service equipment. This eliminates the need for each load device to have its own conversion circuitry, reducing complexity while maintaining compatibility
Solution Approach 2:
Power devices act as intermediaries between the AC power source and DC-consuming load devices. These power devices perform the conversion function centrally, allowing load devices to receive ready-made DC power without requiring built-in conversion capabilities
3Reliability
If separate communication networks are installed for data transmission, then communication reliability is improved, but installation cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges power delivery and data communication into a single integrated system. Load communicators transmit data over the same conductors that carry DC power signals, eliminating the need for separate communication wiring and simplifying installation while maintaining reliable bidirectional communication
Data Source
AI summary
A power device may include channels coupled to conductors in lines, where each one of the channels is coupled to a different one of the lines than the other channels and where the channels deliver direct current power signals over the conductors to the load devices. Each one of the load devices may be powered by a different one of the direct current power signals. The power device may include a power communicator that communicates with the load devices over the conductors that propagate the direct current power signals. The power communicator may determine a target power level for the load devices based on the communication over the conductors. The load device may adjust an amount of power in the direct current power signals in order to match the target power level.