UPS Power Line Carrier Communication for PON

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing network interface devices in passive optical networks require additional wiring for communication, increasing installation complexity and cost, as they need dedicated cables for transmitting high-speed information to subscriber premises.

Innovation Solution

The use of existing AC power lines within subscriber premises as both a power supply and communication medium, enabled by an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) unit that transmits and receives information over a DC power line, eliminating the need for additional communication cables.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If dedicated communication cables are installed for network interface devices, then communication reliability is improved, but device complexity and installation cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommunication reliabilityVSAvoidinstallation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines power delivery and data communication functions into a single infrastructure by using power lines for both purposes. The power line carrier communication system modulates data signals onto power line carriers, allowing simultaneous power delivery and bidirectional communication over the same wires that supply electricity to network interface devices and subscriber premises equipment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The power distribution infrastructure is made multi-functional by enabling it to carry both electrical power and communication data. The system allows existing power lines to serve dual purposes: delivering power to devices and transmitting network data, thereby eliminating the need for separate dedicated communication cabling while maintaining reliable communication capabilities.

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

2Productivity

If additional communication wiring is installed within subscriber premises, then information transmission capability is improved, but installation cost and time increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinformation transmission capabilityVSAvoidinstallation time
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system utilizes the existing power distribution infrastructure already present in subscriber premises to provide communication services. By leveraging the self-existing power lines and outlets, the system eliminates the need for additional installation work, allowing rapid deployment of network services without requiring new wiring or extensive installation time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Reliability

If separate power and communication lines are used, then power delivery reliability is improved, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower delivery reliabilityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces power line carrier modulation technology as an intermediary mechanism that enables data communication over power lines without interfering with power delivery. The modulation and demodulation processes allow data signals to be superimposed on power line carriers, facilitating simultaneous power delivery and communication over the same infrastructure while maintaining the reliability of power supply.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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

This approach allows for bi-directional communication of voice, video, and data without the need for extra cables, reducing installation complexity and cost, and providing ubiquitous availability of network information by leveraging existing AC power outlets.

Implementation Method 1

The UPS unit is configured to receive the information transmitted by the network interface device via the second power line, and transmit the received information to subscriber devices within the premises via the first power line

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical signal transmission: Conduction (electrical)

Data Source

PatentUS8338981B2Communication between network interface device and subscriber devices via power supply lines
Publication Date: 2012.12.25 CALIX INC
  • US8338981B2 patent drawing
  • US8338981B2 patent drawing
  • US8338981B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The disclosure describes communication of information between a network interface device and subscriber devices over a power line. A UPS unit receives operating power from subscriber premises via a first power line and delivers operating power to the network interface device via a second power line. The network interface device transmits and receives information, such as voice, video and data, to and from the UPS unit via the second power line. The UPS unit receives the information transmitted by the network interface device via the second power line, and transmits the received information to subscriber devices within the premises via the first power line. The UPS unit receives information transmitted by subscriber devices via the first power line, and transmits the received information to the network interface device via the second power line. The first and second power lines each serve as both a power line and a communication medium.