SPE Splitting Unit With PSE for Long Spur Cables

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) systems face challenges in achieving high data transfer rates over long cable lengths while maintaining signal integrity and power density, particularly in hybrid Ethernet systems where spur cables need to be extended without adding signal disturbance.

Innovation Solution

A splitting unit for SPE hybrid lines that includes an input connection element, a first and second output connection element, and an active unit, such as a Power Sourcing Equipment (PSE), which taps power from a power line onto a data line, allowing for flexible cable thickness and length adjustments, and supports various connection modes to distribute power and data efficiently.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Length of stationary object

If spur cables are extended to reach long cable lengths, then cable length is improved, but signal disturbance increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespur cable lengthVSAvoidsignal disturbance
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of stationary objectVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The splitting unit acts as an intermediary device between the main line and spur cables. It actively manages signal distribution and power delivery to multiple outlets, enabling extended cable lengths while maintaining signal integrity through controlled signal regeneration and isolation mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The splitting unit incorporates an active unit with PSE that automatically detects connected devices and provides power and data signals as needed. This self-managing capability allows the system to extend cable lengths without manual intervention while maintaining optimal signal levels and minimizing disturbance through intelligent power management.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Length of stationary object

If power is supplied over extended distances, then cable length is improved, but power density decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecable lengthVSAvoidpower density
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of stationary objectVSPower

Solution Approach 1:

The system segments power delivery by placing splitting units at intermediate points along the cable network. Each splitting unit contains its own PSE that can independently supply power to connected devices, effectively dividing the long cable into multiple shorter segments and maintaining high power density at each outlet despite overall system extension.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The splitting unit serves as a power intermediary that receives power from the main line and redistributes it to multiple spur cables. This intermediary function enables power to be supplied over extended distances while maintaining adequate power density at each outlet through localized power management and distribution.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If a tree structured Ethernet system is created, then network flexibility is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork flexibilityVSAvoidsplitting unit complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The splitting unit is designed as a universal device that combines multiple functions: signal distribution, power delivery via PSE, and network management. This multi-functionality enables the creation of flexible tree-structured Ethernet systems without requiring multiple separate devices, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining adaptability.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges the functions of signal switching, power supply, and network management into a single splitting unit. By combining these previously separate functions into one integrated device, the system achieves high network flexibility while minimizing the number of components and reducing overall device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

Enables high data transfer rates and power density over extended cable lengths, reducing the need for additional power cables and minimizing signal interference, suitable for industrial applications like robots and machines.

Implementation Method 1

The PSE taps power from a power line onto a data line

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical induction/coupling: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS12470417B2Splitting unit for a single pair ethernet hybrid line and hybrid ethernet power system
Publication Date: 2025.11.11 TE CONNECTIVITY GERMANY GMBH
  • US12470417B2 patent drawing
  • US12470417B2 patent drawing
  • US12470417B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A splitting unit for a single pair Ethernet (SPE) hybrid line includes an input connection element, a first output connection element, a second output connection element, and an active unit providing power and data at the second output connection element. The input connection element, the first output connection element, and the second output connection element transfer power and data. The active unit has a power sourcing equipment (PSE) connected to the input connection element and to at least one of the first output connection element and the second output connection element. The PSE taps power from a power line onto a data line.