Twisted-Wire Actuator Power Management via Energy Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices powered by Ethernet are limited by the relatively low wattage available, restricting their power usage and potentially causing malfunctions if they draw too much power from the network.
Innovation Solution
An automated actuator system that uses a twisted-wire connector, an energy storage unit, and a controller to transmit and store electrical power at different wattage levels, allowing actuators to operate at higher power levels than the initial connection can provide, with user input controlling the engagement of power sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If devices are powered directly by Ethernet twisted-wire connections, then the system structure is simple and ease of operation is improved, but the available power (wattage) is limited and cannot meet higher power requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a power converter device as an intermediary between the Ethernet twisted-wire connection and the powered device. This converter receives limited power from the Ethernet connection, converts it to higher wattage output, and supplies it to the device, thereby resolving the contradiction between maintaining simple connectivity and providing sufficient power.
2Quantity of substance
If multiple devices are connected to Ethernet network for power distribution, then the quantity of powered devices can be increased, but the total power consumption may exceed the Ethernet source capacity causing malfunctions
Solution Approach 1:
The power converter device incorporates feedback mechanisms to monitor power consumption levels and manage power distribution to multiple devices. This feedback system prevents total power consumption from exceeding the Ethernet source capacity, thereby maintaining system reliability while supporting multiple devices.
3Power
If devices draw more power from Ethernet connection to meet higher power requirements, then the power availability is improved, but the risk of network failure and device malfunction increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs parameter changes by converting the electrical power parameters from the Ethernet connection (limited wattage) to different output parameters (higher wattage) through the power converter. This transformation allows devices to receive adequate power without overloading the Ethernet source, thus maintaining reliability while meeting power requirements.
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 the operation of devices with higher power requirements using low-power twisted-wire connections like Ethernet, preventing network failures and reducing the need for high-power electrical circuits, while optimizing energy storage and delivery.
Implementation Method 1
The energy storage unit may be in selective electrical communication with the twisted-wire connector, and may further be operable to receive electrical power at the first wattage level. The energy storage unit may further be operable to discharge stored electrical power at a second wattage level higher than the first wattage level.
Data Source
AI summary
A system comprising a twisted-wire connection providing data and power signals to devices, the devices comprising power storage to be utilized later for intermittent operation. Device operation may require a higher wattage than is specified for the power signal delivered via the twisted-wire connection. A human-machine interface may provide user input to further control of the device.