Zero Crossing Indicator for PLC Modem Compatibility

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing powerline communication (PLC) modems are limited by the need for exclusively designed DC power supplies, which restricts compatibility with different OEM manufacturers' devices and increases costs, hindering the growth of PLC communication technology.

Innovation Solution

A zero-crossing indicator apparatus that detects zero crossings in AC signals and generates corresponding indications in a DC power line, allowing any generic DC power supply to be used with any PLC modem by adjusting the DC current flow during zero-crossing detections, ensuring continuous DC voltage and reducing noise.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If exclusively designed DC power supplies are used with PLC modems, then reliable power supply is ensured, but compatibility with different OEM manufacturers' devices is restricted and costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower supply reliabilityVSAvoidcompatibility with different OEM manufacturers' devices

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by enabling any generic DC power supply to work with any PLC modem through the zero-crossing indicator apparatus. The apparatus translates zero-crossing signals from AC power lines to DC power lines, creating a universal interface that eliminates the need for exclusively designed power supplies. This allows different OEM manufacturers' devices to be compatible with standard DC power supplies, expanding adaptability while maintaining reliability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The zero-crossing indicator apparatus serves as an intermediary device between the AC power line and the DC power supply. It detects zero-crossing signals from the AC line and generates corresponding signals on the DC line, mediating the interaction between AC and DC systems. This intermediary function enables compatibility without requiring exclusively designed power supplies, resolving the contradiction between reliability and adaptability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Stability of the object's composition

If exclusively designed DC power supplies are used with PLC modems, then power supply stability is maintained, but device costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower supply stabilityVSAvoiddevice cost

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables universal compatibility between generic DC power supplies and PLC modems, eliminating the need for expensive exclusively designed power supplies. By using standard components and the zero-crossing indicator apparatus, manufacturers can reduce costs while maintaining power supply stability through the reliable translation of zero-crossing signals.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The zero-crossing indicator apparatus uses simple, inexpensive components to achieve the desired function. Rather than requiring expensive exclusively designed power supplies, the patent employs a cost-effective solution that detects and translates zero-crossing signals, significantly reducing device costs while maintaining operational stability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

3Reliability

If DC current flow is adjusted during zero-crossing detections, then network synchronization is achieved, but DC voltage continuity may be disrupted

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenetwork synchronizationVSAvoidDC voltage continuity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies periodic action by adjusting the DC current flow in synchronization with the periodic zero-crossing events of the AC power line. The zero-crossing indicator apparatus generates signals at each zero-crossing point, creating a periodic modulation pattern that enables network synchronization. This periodic adjustment maintains DC voltage continuity while achieving the desired synchronization effect.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #19Periodic action

Data Source

PatentUS9787360B2Zero crossing indicator device

Publication Date: 2017.10.10 SIGMA DESIGNS ISRAEL S D I

AI summary

An alternating current (AC) zero-crossing indicator apparatus including a current adjusting circuit for adjusting a DC signal current for a duration of time the same as the duration of a received zero-crossing detection signal. The zero-crossing indicator apparatus additionally includes a voltage retainer for maintaining a constant DC voltage applied to a connected load during the adjusting of the DC signal current. Also included is a zero-crossing sensor for generating a zero-crossing indication signal responsive to sensing of the adjusting of the DC signal current.