Switchable Low-Pass Filter for Power Line Communication Noise
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Solution Overview
Problem
Power line communication systems face signal attenuation and noise interference due to the transmission of communication signals across all power line branches, necessitating signal amplification and noise reduction.
Innovation Solution
A filtering device with a switchable low-pass filter that blocks communication channels while allowing power current frequencies to pass through, adjustable to specific standards and load conditions, and a protecting device with an interrupting module to manage overcurrents, ensuring optimal communication path setup.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If communication signals are transmitted across all power line branches, then communication coverage is improved, but signal attenuation increases and noise interference worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the power line network into separate communication domains by introducing filtering devices at branch points. These filters segment the network so that communication signals on one branch do not propagate to other branches, thereby maintaining signal quality while preserving communication coverage through proper routing.
Solution Approach 2:
The filtering device acts as an intermediary between different power line branches. It selectively allows power current to pass through while blocking communication signals from unwanted branches, thus mediating between the need for broad coverage and the need for signal integrity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If communication signals are transmitted across all power line branches, then communication coverage is improved, but additional amplification is required
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the power line network with filtering devices, the patent eliminates the need for signal amplification. Each segment maintains its own communication signals without interference from other branches, removing the requirement for additional amplification devices and reducing system complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If communication signals are transmitted across all power line branches, then communication coverage is improved, but noise interference from electrical devices increases
Solution Approach 1:
The filtering device segments the power line network to isolate communication signals from noise sources. By blocking the propagation of signals across branch points, the filter prevents noise from electrical devices on one branch from interfering with communications on other branches, thereby reducing overall noise interference while maintaining coverage.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If a low-pass filter is used to block communication channels, then noise reduction is improved, but power current transmission may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent carefully selects the cut-off frequency parameter of the low-pass filter to be higher than the power current frequency (50/60 Hz) but lower than the communication signal frequencies. This parameter adjustment allows the filter to block communication channels and reduce noise while simultaneously ensuring that power current transmission is not affected.
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
The solution effectively attenuates communication signals in non-deployed power branches, reduces noise, and optimizes power line communication networks by isolating communication channels, enhancing signal quality and reducing the need for additional amplification.
Implementation Method 1
a cut-off frequency of the first low-pass filter is configured to pass through the power carrying current and to block one or more of the communication channels
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
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AI summary
According to an embodiment, a protecting device (300) for protecting a power line branch in a power line communication network is disclosed, the protecting device (300) comprising an interrupting module (301) having a first (302) and a second (303) contact and triggerable when an overcurrent and/or overload is detected, the protecting device (300) further comprising the filtering device (100) according to any of the preceding claims, and wherein the first contact (302) of the interrupting module (301) is connected to the first contact (102) of the filtering device, and wherein the first contact (302) of the interrupting module (301) and the second contact (103) of the filtering device (100) corresponds to a first (302) and a second (103) output contact of the protecting device (300).