USB Power Adapter Integrating PLC for IoT Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems require separate cables for power and data connectivity, complicating the conversion of USB peripheral devices into IoT devices and lacking a simplified electrical cable system for network infrastructure connection.
Innovation Solution
A portable USB power adapter with a built-in Powerline Communication (PLC) interface that provides both electrical power and network connectivity, using a microcontroller unit for USB device enumeration, initialization, and data communication, allowing USB peripheral devices to connect directly to the internet via a single USB cable.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate cables are used for power and data connectivity, then reliable power supply and network connection are achieved, but cable complexity and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines power delivery and data communication functions into a single USB cable connection. The USB power adapter integrates both power supply circuitry and Powerline Communication (PLC) interface, allowing simultaneous transmission of electrical power and network data through one cable instead of requiring separate power and Ethernet cables.
Solution Approach 2:
The USB cable is made multi-functional by enabling it to carry both power delivery and data communication signals. The adapter uses the existing USB interface universally for both power supply (up to 100 watts with USB 3.1 Power Delivery) and network connectivity through integrated PLC technology, eliminating the need for device-specific power connectors and separate network cables.
2Adaptability or versatility
If USB peripheral devices are converted to IoT devices, then device functionality and connectivity are enhanced, but conversion complexity and setup difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter performs automatic USB device enumeration and initialization through its microcontroller unit, eliminating the need for manual configuration. The system automatically detects connected USB peripherals, configures appropriate communication protocols, and establishes network connectivity without user intervention, making the conversion process as simple as plugging in the device.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter pre-establishes Powerline Communication network connectivity before USB devices are connected. The PLC interface is already active and ready to provide network access, so when a USB peripheral is connected, data communication can immediately begin without requiring separate network setup or configuration steps.
3Adaptability or versatility
If Powerline Communication interface is integrated into USB adapter, then network connectivity is provided, but device complexity and manufacturing complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter is designed as a modular system with distinct functional modules: power conversion circuitry, Powerline Communication interface, and microcontroller unit. Each module can be independently developed, tested, and manufactured, then assembled into the final adapter product. This segmentation simplifies the manufacturing process despite the integrated functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
A USB power adapter has a built-in powerline communication interface and includes an electrical power connection to a powerline, such as a home power socket. The USB power adapter also includes one or more USB receptacles to connect to USB peripheral devices. The USB power adapter includes power converter circuitry and power delivery control logic for sourcing the USB power to the USB peripheral device connected to the USB power adapter, wherein the sourced USB power is compliant with the USB protocol. The USB power adapter includes a microcontroller unit (MCU) that interfaces with both the USB host controller and the powerline communication controller and has a protocol to establish the communication between the USB peripheral device and the powerline communication gateway server in order to create an IoT operation.