Transformer-Coupled Signal Transmission on Shared Twisted Pair

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing Ethernet transmitting apparatuses have a single signal transmitting path, leading to unstable connections and inaccurate data transmission when networks are unstable, limiting the ability to transmit necessary information effectively.

Innovation Solution

A transmitting apparatus that utilizes a transformer with a primary and secondary side to transmit data signals of different frequencies over the same transmission medium, enabling bi-directional communication and providing an additional signal path without increasing network lines, using a transformer, transmitting unit, and control unit to generate and transmit signals within distinct frequency ranges.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a single signal transmitting path is used between physical layer circuits, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability of data transmission deteriorates when the network is unstable

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata transmission reliabilityVSAvoidsignal transmitting path complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the signal transmission into two separate paths: a first signal transmitting path for data signals and a second signal transmitting path for control signals. This segmentation allows independent transmission channels, so when one path experiences instability, the other path can still function, thereby improving overall transmission reliability without requiring a completely complex multi-path system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a coupling circuit as an intermediary component that enables the control signal path to interact with the data signal path. The coupling circuit allows the control signals to be transmitted through the data signal transmitting path under certain conditions, providing an additional communication channel without directly complicating the primary transmission architecture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If only one signal transmitting path is used, then the ease of operation is maintained, but the ability to accurately transmit control signals deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal transmission operationVSAvoidcontrol signal accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments control signals from data signals into separate transmitting paths. The second signal transmitting path is dedicated to control signals, ensuring they receive appropriate transmission treatment and protection. This segmentation enables accurate control signal transmission while maintaining simple operation through clear signal separation and dedicated handling procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Reliability

If the network line is increased to provide additional signal paths, then the reliability is improved, but the cost and device complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork transmission reliabilityVSAvoidnetwork line complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent makes the first signal transmitting path multi-functional by enabling it to carry both data signals normally and control signals when needed (through the coupling circuit). This universality allows the system to achieve reliable control signal transmission without requiring a completely separate physical network line, thereby improving reliability while avoiding the cost and complexity of additional network infrastructure.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges the control signal transmission capability into the existing data signal transmitting path through the coupling circuit. Instead of requiring entirely separate infrastructure, the system combines both signal types into one path when appropriate, reducing the need for additional network lines while maintaining reliable transmission through intelligent signal management.

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

Facilitates bi-directional communication and provides an additional signal path, allowing existing twisted pair cables to support multiple functions, reducing costs and ensuring stable data transmission even during network instability.

Implementation Method 1

The transformer comprises a primary side and a secondary side for performing signal transformation between the signal of the primary side and the signal of the secondary side

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic Induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS8422573B2Transmitting device
Publication Date: 2013.04.16 ASPEED TECH
  • US8422573B2 patent drawing
  • US8422573B2 patent drawing
  • US8422573B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The invention discloses a transmitting apparatus. The transmitting apparatus uses the same transmission medium to transmit two signals that are within different frequency ranges at the same time. The transmitting apparatus increases the transmitting paths of the transmission medium so as to enhance the use of the transmission medium and save the production costs.