CN115913799A - Network unit - Google Patents

A network element, comprising: a plurality of power over Ethernet interfaces; an Ethernet interface; a direct current power supply interface; and a network unit controller communicatively coupled to the ethernet interface and the plurality of power-over-ethernet interfaces and electrically coupled to the dc power interface, configured to route information between the ethernet interface and at least one PoE interface, the network unit powered by a dc power source via the dc power interface.

网络单元network unit

本申请是申请人为“莫列斯有限公司”、申请日为2017年02月15日、申请号为201780024943.X、发明名称为“用于以太网供电控制的系统和方法”的申请的分案申请。This application is a divisional case of an application whose applicant is "Moles Co., Ltd.", with an application date of February 15, 2017, an application number of 201780024943.X, and an invention title of "System and Method for Power over Ethernet Control" Apply.

技术领域technical field

本发明涉及以太网供电(PoE)系统，且更具体地涉及用于将PoE系统与设施管理系统桥接的控制器。The present invention relates to Power over Ethernet (PoE) systems, and more particularly to controllers for bridging PoE systems with facility management systems.

背景技术Background technique

本部分介绍能够有助于更好地理解本发明的各个方面。因此，本部分的陈述应从这个角度来阅读，并且不应被理解为承认什么是现有技术或什么不是现有技术。This section introduces various aspects that can help to better understand the present invention. Accordingly, the statements in this section should be read in this light and should not be construed as an admission of what is or is not prior art.

以太网供电(PoE)是一种有线以太网局域网(LAN)技术，其允许用于使被连接的设备运行的电流由数据线缆承载而不是由单独的电源线承载。PoE能够描述标准化的或特定的(ad hoc)的系统，所述标准化的或特定的系统在以太网布线(cabling)上将电功率与数据一起传递。这允许一单根线缆向设备(例如无线接入点(wireless access point)、IP摄像机以及因特网协议语音(VoIP)电话)提供数据连接和电功率。Power over Ethernet (PoE) is a wired Ethernet local area network (LAN) technology that allows the electrical current used to operate connected devices to be carried by data cables rather than by separate power lines. PoE can describe a standardized or ad hoc system that delivers electrical power along with data over Ethernet cabling. This allows a single cable to provide a data connection and electrical power to devices such as wireless access points, IP cameras, and Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) phones.

发明内容Contents of the invention

根据一个方面，系统和方法可以提供一种以太网供电(PoE)控制器，其包括：一PoE接口；一设备接口；以及一控制器，通信连结于所述PoE接口和所述设备接口。所述控制器可配置为经由所述PoE接口接收设备控制信息并且响应所述设备控制信息产生用于所述设备接口的的控制指令。According to one aspect, systems and methods may provide a Power over Ethernet (PoE) controller comprising: a PoE interface; a device interface; and a controller communicatively coupled to the PoE interface and the device interface. The controller may be configured to receive device control information via the PoE interface and generate control instructions for the device interface in response to the device control information.

根据另一个方面，提供了一种网络单元，包括：多个以太网供电接口；一以太网接口；一直流电源接口；以及一网络单元控制器，通信连结于所述以太网接口和所述多个以太网供电接口并且电连结于所述直流电源接口，配置为在所述以太网接口和至少一个PoE接口之间路由信息，所述网络单元经由所述直流电源接口由一直流电源提供功率。According to another aspect, a network unit is provided, including: a plurality of power over Ethernet interfaces; an Ethernet interface; a DC power interface; and a network unit controller, which is communicatively connected to the Ethernet interface and the multiple and electrically coupled to the DC power interface, configured to route information between the Ethernet interface and at least one PoE interface, the network unit is powered by a DC power source via the DC power interface.

其中，所述直流电源包括低压电源。Wherein, the DC power supply includes a low-voltage power supply.

其中，所述低压电源在42和57伏特之间。Wherein, the low voltage power supply is between 42 and 57 volts.

其中，所述低压电源大致在48伏特。Wherein, the low-voltage power supply is approximately 48 volts.

其中，所述直流电源接口电连结于一低压DC电源线。Wherein, the DC power interface is electrically connected to a low-voltage DC power line.

其中，所述低压直流电源线电连结于一AC到DC电源单元。Wherein, the low voltage direct current power line is electrically connected to an AC to DC power supply unit.

其中，所述低压直流电源线电连结于一DC到DC电源单元。Wherein, the low voltage direct current power line is electrically connected to a DC to DC power supply unit.

其中，所述直流到直流电源单元将高压DC电源转换为低压电源。Wherein, the DC-to-DC power supply unit converts high-voltage DC power into low-voltage power.

其中，所述高压直流电源大致为600伏特。Wherein, the high voltage direct current power supply is approximately 600 volts.

其中，所述低压直流电源线电连结于包括一交流至直流转换器的一接线盒。Wherein, the low-voltage DC power line is electrically connected to a junction box including an AC-to-DC converter.

其中，所述低压直流电源线电连结于包括一直流至直流转换器的一接线盒，其中，所述直流至直流转换器将高压直流电源转换为低压电源。Wherein, the low-voltage DC power line is electrically connected to a junction box including a DC-to-DC converter, wherein the DC-to-DC converter converts the high-voltage DC power supply into a low-voltage power supply.

通过研究以下附图和详细说明，其它的系统、方法、特征和优点或将变得显而易见。所有这些其它的系统、方法、特征和优点包括在本说明书中并受随附的权利要求保护。Other systems, methods, features and advantages may become apparent by examination of the following drawings and detailed description. All such other systems, methods, features and advantages are included within this specification and protected by the following claims.

附图说明Description of drawings

本发明通过举例说明且不限于附图，在附图中类似的附图标记表示类似的部件。The present invention is illustrated by way of example and not limited by the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals indicate like parts.

下面参照各个附图和草图公开本发明的具体实施例。撰写的说明和附图旨在增进理解。例如，一些图形元素的尺寸可能相对于其它元素被夸大，并且可能没有描绘出对商业上成功的实现有益或甚至必要的公知元素，使得能够实现实施例的呈现阻碍较少并且更清晰。Specific embodiments of the present invention are disclosed below with reference to the various drawings and sketches. Descriptions and drawings are written to enhance understanding. For example, the size of some graphical elements may be exaggerated relative to other elements and may not depict well-known elements that are beneficial or even necessary to commercially successful implementation, enabling a less obstructive and clearer presentation of the embodiments.

图示和说明书寻求简单和清楚以有效地使本领域的技术人员能够鉴于本领域公知的内容来制造、使用和最佳实践本发明。本领域的技术人员将理解的是，在不脱离本发明的精神和范围的情况下，可以对下述的具体实施例进行各种修改和改变。因此，说明书和附图应被视为说明性和示例性的而不是限制性或包含所有的，并且对下述的具体实施例的所有这些修改旨在包括在本发明的范围内。The illustrations and description sought simplicity and clarity to effectively enable one skilled in the art to make, use and best practice the invention, given what is known in the art. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications and changes can be made to the specific embodiments described below without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, the specification and drawings are to be regarded as illustrative and exemplary rather than restrictive or inclusive, and all such modifications of the specific examples described below are intended to be included within the scope of the invention.

图1是用于一受电端(powered)设备网络的一示例系统架构的一框图。FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an example system architecture for a network of powered devices.

图2是控制器的一示例接口的一框图。Figure 2 is a block diagram of an example interface of the controller.

图3是一示例照明装置与控制器连接的实施方式的一框图。Figure 3 is a block diagram of an embodiment of an example lighting device connected to a controller.

图4是一示例分配器(dispenser)与控制器连接的实施方式的一框图。Figure 4 is a block diagram of an embodiment of an example dispenser connected to a controller.

图5是一示例遮光板(shade)与控制器连接的实施方式的一框图。Figure 5 is a block diagram of an embodiment of an example shade connected to a controller.

图6是一示例传感器与控制器连接的实施方式的一框图。Figure 6 is a block diagram of an example sensor and controller implementation.

图7是一示例固持座(fixture)与控制器连接的实施方式的一框图。Figure 7 is a block diagram of an example embodiment of a fixture connected to a controller.

图8是控制器的一示例通信逻辑的一框图。8 is a block diagram of an example communication logic for the controller.

图9是服务器和控制器之间的一示例中继逻辑(relay logic)的一框图。Figure 9 is a block diagram of an example relay logic between the server and the controller.

图10是经由控制器的一示例功率共享逻辑的一框图。10 is a block diagram of an example power sharing logic via a controller.

图11是经由控制器的另一示例功率共享逻辑的一框图。11 is a block diagram of another example power sharing logic via a controller.

图12是实施控制器的一示例注入器点(injector point)的一框图。Figure 12 is a block diagram of an example injector point implementing a controller.

图13是一示例低压输出注入器点的一框图，其中多个输出菊花链式连接(daisy-chained)。Figure 13 is a block diagram of an example low voltage output injector point where multiple outputs are daisy-chained.

图14是具有多通道输出的一示例低压输出注入器点的一框图。14 is a block diagram of an example low voltage output injector point with multi-channel outputs.

图15是用于一低压网络的一示例架构的一框图。Figure 15 is a block diagram of an example architecture for a low voltage network.

图16至图20是针对低压网络的各种功率提供场景(scenarios)的框图。Figures 16 to 20 are block diagrams of various power provisioning scenarios for a low voltage network.

图21是用于控制器的一示例电路板。Figure 21 is an example circuit board for the controller.

具体实施方式Detailed ways

下面的具体说明描述示范性实施例且不意欲限制于这些明确公开的组合。由此，除非另有说明，本文所公开的特征可以组合在一起，以形成出于简明目的未给出的另外的组合。The following detailed description describes exemplary embodiments and is not intended to be limited to these expressly disclosed combinations. Thus, unless stated otherwise, features disclosed herein may be combined together to form additional combinations not presented for the sake of brevity.

图1是用于一受电端设备网络的一示例系统架构100的一框图。在一示例中，系统架构100可包括一管理层102、一通信/电源层104以及一设备层106。通信/电源层104可包括一PoE网络105，PoE网络105包括但不限于电气电子工程师协会(IEEE)802.3网络(例如PoE、通用PoE(Universal PoE)(UPoE)、增强型PoE(PoE plus)(PoE+)以及四对(Four Pair)PoE(4PPoE))和/或受限应用协议(CoAP)型网络、传输控制协议/网际协议(TCP/IP)型网络等。通信/电源层104还可包括用于与管理层102等交互的应用程序编程接口(API)。FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an example system architecture 100 for a powered device network. In one example, the system architecture 100 may include a management layer 102 , a communication/power layer 104 and a device layer 106 . The communication/power layer 104 may include a PoE network 105 including, but not limited to, an Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.3 network (e.g., PoE, Universal PoE (UPoE), Enhanced PoE (PoE plus) ( PoE+) and Four Pair PoE (4PPoE)) and/or Constrained Application Protocol (CoAP) type networks, Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) type networks, etc. The communication/power layer 104 may also include an application programming interface (API) for interacting with the management layer 102 and the like.

通信/电源层104将管理层102与位于设备层106中的受电端的设备108连接。通信/电源层104能够为设备108提供功率和/或控制。示例的设备108可以分为照明单元110a-n(例如，LED/荧光固持座110a、线条灯(linear light)110b、菊花链式(daisy-chain)连接的多个固持座110c、高瓦数固持座110n、光模块、LED照明引擎等)、传感器112a-n(例如，有线传感器112a和无线传感器112b，包括但不限于光学(optical)/光(light)传感器(例如，环境光、相关色温(CCT)、红外线(IR)等)、环境传感器(例如，温度、湿度、空气质量、化学等)、运动/姿态传感器、惯性传感器、接近程度(proximity)传感器等)和/或致动器(acuators)114a-n(例如，用于控制遮光板116、阀门、继电器等的电机114a)。菊花链式连接的多个固持座110c和其它菊花链式连接的多个设备108可由控制器118a-n独立地寻址，以便控制器118a-n向指定的多个设备108提供功率和/或数据，而无需多个设备108访问互联网。在一些实施例中，地址可以以表存储在控制器118a-n中的一个或多个内的存储器164中。可包括在设备层106中的由控制器118a-n提供功率和/或控制的其它类型的设备108，其包括但不限于其它类型的照明设备、显示设备、电机、阀门、致动器、继电器、分配器、水槽(sinks)、水龙头、遮光板(shade)、镜子、玻璃、窗户、墙面板(wall panels)、墙控、墙标签、墙开关、墙板(wall boards)、门、储物柜(lockers)、通信设备、计算机、太阳能电池板组件、电池、锁定设备、智能插头、智能手机、摄像机、信号器(beacons)、传感器等，如下更详细说明。The communication/power layer 104 connects the management layer 102 with the device 108 at the power receiving end in the device layer 106 . Communication/power layer 104 can provide power and/or control to device 108 . Exemplary devices 108 may be grouped into lighting units 110a-n (e.g., LED/fluorescent holder 110a, linear light 110b, daisy-chained multiple holders 110c, high wattage holder socket 110n, light module, LED lighting engine, etc.), sensors 112a-n (e.g., wired sensor 112a and wireless sensor 112b, including but not limited to optical/light sensors (e.g., ambient light, correlated color temperature ( CCT), infrared (IR), etc.), environmental sensors (e.g., temperature, humidity, air quality, chemistry, etc.), motion/attitude sensors, inertial sensors, proximity sensors, etc.), and/or actuators ) 114a-n (eg, motor 114a for controlling visor 116, valves, relays, etc.). The daisy-chained plurality of holders 110c and other daisy-chained plurality of devices 108 can be independently addressed by the controllers 118a-n such that the controllers 118a-n provide power and/or data without requiring multiple devices 108 to access the Internet. In some embodiments, the addresses may be stored in a table in memory 164 within one or more of controllers 118a-n. Other types of devices 108 powered and/or controlled by controllers 118a-n may be included in the device layer 106, including but not limited to other types of lighting devices, display devices, motors, valves, actuators, relays , dispensers, sinks, faucets, shades, mirrors, glass, windows, wall panels, wall controls, wall labels, wall switches, wall boards, doors, storage Lockers, communication equipment, computers, solar panel assemblies, batteries, locking devices, smart plugs, smartphones, cameras, beacons, sensors, etc., as described in more detail below.

设备层106还包括控制器118a-n，控制器118a-n能够将PoE网络105协议转换或转化为本地的功率、数据分布以及连接协议，以将PoE网络105与设备层106桥接。例如，控制器118a-n提供向设备108发送信号/从设备108接收信号、为设备108提供功率、控制设备108的功率和/或控制设备108的运行等，如下更详细说明。在一些实施例中，控制器118a-n执行网关功能。Device layer 106 also includes controllers 118a - n capable of converting or translating PoE network 105 protocols to local power, data distribution, and connectivity protocols to bridge PoE network 105 with device layer 106 . For example, the controllers 118a-n provide for sending/receiving signals to/from the devices 108, providing power to the devices 108, controlling the power of the devices 108, and/or controlling the operation of the devices 108, etc., as described in more detail below. In some embodiments, the controllers 118a-n perform gateway functions.

控制器118a-n可以经由多个以太网端口120(例如，多个RJ45连接器)与PoE网络105接口并且经由多根以太网线缆122(例如，类别3、类别5/5e、类别6线缆等)与PoE网络105连接。在一些示例中，控制器118a-n可以控制如何将从PoE网络105接收的功率输出到设备108(例如依据功率的类型和/或量)和/或将以太网或其它高级协议转换为用于接口(interface)和控制设备108的一较低级协议(例如，RS232、RS485、CAN、BACnet、数字可寻址照明接口(DALI)、MOLEX的TRANSCEND等)。为了便于说明，RS485在本文中通常被提及但是实现方式不限于RS485。控制器118a-n也可以与其它控制器118a-n接口(例如以一菊花链方式)。The controllers 118a-n may interface with the PoE network 105 via a plurality of Ethernet ports 120 (e.g., a plurality of RJ45 connectors) and via a plurality of Ethernet cables 122 (e.g., category 3, category 5/5e, category 6 wires) cable, etc.) is connected to the PoE network 105. In some examples, controllers 118a-n may control how power received from PoE network 105 is output to device 108 (e.g., in terms of the type and/or amount of power) and/or convert Ethernet or other advanced protocols to A lower level protocol to interface and control the device 108 (eg, RS232, RS485, CAN, BACnet, Digital Addressable Lighting Interface (DALI), TRANSCEND by MOLEX, etc.). For ease of explanation, RS485 is generally mentioned herein but the implementation is not limited to RS485. Controllers 118a-n may also interface with other controllers 118a-n (eg, in a daisy-chain fashion).

在一示例中，控制器118a-n包括一接口124，接口124用于与设备108和/或其它控制器118a-n有线和/或无线连接，如下更详细说明。在有线实施方式中，一有线线束126可用于将控制器118a-n连接于设备108。在一示例中，有线线束126包括四根导线，例如，电压、接地、RS+和RS-各用一根导线。其它配置也是可能的，例如，取决于所使用的低级协议。除了设备108外，控制器118a-n可经由有线和/或无线连接与包括墙开关128的其它外围设备(peripherals)连接。控制器118a-n可基于从墙开关108接收的信号控制设备108，例如打开/关闭设备108、使照明单元110a-n变暗、控制遮光板116等。在一些示例中，控制器118a-n还可与一外部电源130(例如110V-277VAC)连接，如下更详细说明。In one example, the controllers 118a-n include an interface 124 for wired and/or wireless connection with the device 108 and/or other controllers 118a-n, as described in more detail below. In wired implementations, a wired harness 126 may be used to connect the controllers 118a - n to the device 108 . In one example, the wired harness 126 includes four wires, eg, one wire each for voltage, ground, RS+, and RS-. Other configurations are possible, eg depending on the low-level protocol used. In addition to device 108, controllers 118a-n may interface with other peripherals including wall switch 128 via wired and/or wireless connections. The controllers 118a-n may control the devices 108 based on signals received from the wall switches 108, eg, turn the devices 108 on/off, dim the lighting units 110a-n, control the shades 116, and the like. In some examples, the controllers 118a-n may also be connected to an external power source 130 (eg, 110V-277VAC), as described in more detail below.

控制信息还可以经由PoE网络105和控制器118a-n从管理层102发送到设备108以用于控制设备108和接收来自设备108的状态和/或传感器信息。在一些示例中，管理层102包括服务器/交换机132，用于存储数据、执行分析以及发送和接收与设备108相关的控制信息和/或传感器信息等，如下更详细说明。服务器/交换机132可以经由一以太网网络121与用户界面134(例如，个人计算机(PC)、便携式电脑、智能手机、平板、掌上电脑(PDA)等)连接，用于输入用于控制设备108和/或与设备108的运行相关的显示仪表板136的控制信息。管理层102还可以包括与服务器132和用户界面134连接的网络交换机138(例如，由Cisco制造的一Catalyst交换机或其它网络单元控制器)，用于向PoE网络105输出PoE协议数据和功率。管理层102还可包括：无线(WiFi)路由器140，用于支持在PoE网络105上提供功率和数据通信；以及一远程界面142，例如用于为PoE网络105提供技术支持。Control information may also be sent from management layer 102 to device 108 via PoE network 105 and controllers 118a - n for controlling device 108 and receiving status and/or sensor information from device 108 . In some examples, management layer 102 includes a server/switch 132 for storing data, performing analysis, and sending and receiving control information and/or sensor information, etc., related to devices 108, as described in more detail below. The server/switch 132 may be connected via an Ethernet network 121 to a user interface 134 (e.g., personal computer (PC), laptop, smart phone, tablet, palmtop computer (PDA), etc.) for input for controlling the device 108 and and/or display dashboard 136 control information related to the operation of device 108 . Management layer 102 may also include network switch 138 (eg, a Catalyst switch or other network element controller manufactured by Cisco) connected to server 132 and user interface 134 for outputting PoE protocol data and power to PoE network 105 . Management layer 102 may also include a wireless (WiFi) router 140 for supporting power and data communication over PoE network 105 , and a remote interface 142 for providing technical support for PoE network 105 , for example.

图2是控制器118a-n的一示例接口144的一框图。在一示例中，控制器118a-n的接口144可以经由线束126连接于设备108和/或其它控制器118a-n，以例如发送/接收控制器118a-n与设备108和其它控制器118a-n之间的控制信息、传感器数据、功率等。接口144还包括一物理(PHY)有线层146(包括用于连接的一物理端口)，以基于RS485协议、一控制器局域网络(CAN)协议、一通用异步接收器/传送器(UART)协议、一串行外设接口(SPI)协议等或其它非以太网相关的协议发送/接收有线信号。另外地或替代地，接口144可包括一PHY无线层148，以(例如，经由可选地集成到设备108中的控制器118a-n)向设备108发送/接收无线信号，包括但不限于低功耗蓝牙(BTLE)协议、ZigBee协议、EnOcean协议、IEEE802.11(WiFi)协议等。接口144还可将功率150发送到设备108。示例的设备108包括但不限于LED灯、传感器、纸巾分配器和其它分配器、阀门、遮光板、镜子/玻璃、包括标签、控制和/或开关的墙面板、墙板、电子储物柜/门、定向照明、太阳跟随太阳能电池板等以及/或任何其它本文所述的设备108。FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an example interface 144 of the controllers 118a-n. In one example, the interfaces 144 of the controllers 118a-n may be connected to the devices 108 and/or other controllers 118a-n via the wiring harness 126 to, for example, transmit/receive the controllers 118a-n to communicate with the devices 108 and other controllers 118a-n Control information, sensor data, power, etc. between n. The interface 144 also includes a physical (PHY) wire layer 146 (including a physical port for connection) to communicate based on the RS485 protocol, a Controller Area Network (CAN) protocol, a Universal Asynchronous Receiver/Transmitter (UART) protocol , a Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI) protocol, etc., or other non-Ethernet-related protocols to send/receive wired signals. Additionally or alternatively, interface 144 may include a PHY wireless layer 148 to transmit/receive wireless signals to/from device 108 (e.g., via controllers 118a-n optionally integrated into device 108), including but not limited to low Bluetooth (BTLE) protocol, ZigBee protocol, EnOcean protocol, IEEE802.11 (WiFi) protocol, etc. Interface 144 may also send power 150 to device 108 . Exemplary devices 108 include, but are not limited to, LED lights, sensors, paper towel dispensers and other dispensers, valves, shades, mirrors/glass, wall panels including tags, controls and/or switches, wall panels, electronic lockers/ Doors, directional lighting, sun following solar panels, etc., and/or any other devices 108 described herein.

另外参照图21，为了适应控制器118a-n的从一种协议到另一种协议的转化以及其它逻辑，控制器118a-n还包括一印刷电路板组件(PCBA)160和/或其它类型的电气元件。在一些实施例中，PCBA 160尺寸和形状设置成适合于设备108，例如，经由圆形、椭圆形、长方形、正方形、三角形、不规则形状等。PCBA 160可包括一个板(board)或彼此连接的超过一个的并且在一些实施例中彼此堆叠的板。将认识到的是，在说明PCBA 160的情况下，通过非限制性示例对其进行说明，使得电路和/或其它电子部件能够在其上具体实施的另外的组件可以在本发明范围内替代PCBA 160，所述另外的组件包括但不限于具有点对点结构的电路板、专用集成电路(ASIC)、现场可编程门阵列(FPGA)等。在一些实施例中，一控制电路位于PCBA 160上。With additional reference to FIG. 21 , in order to accommodate the conversion and other logic of the controllers 118a-n from one protocol to another, the controllers 118a-n also include a printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) 160 and/or other types of Electrical components. In some embodiments, PCBA 160 is sized and shaped to fit device 108, for example, via a circle, oval, rectangle, square, triangle, irregular shape, etc. PCBA 160 may include one board or more than one board connected to each other and in some embodiments stacked on top of each other. It will be appreciated that where PCBA 160 is illustrated, it is illustrated by way of non-limiting example, such that additional components on which circuits and/or other electronic components can be embodied may be substituted for the PCBA within the scope of the invention 160. The additional components include but are not limited to a circuit board with a point-to-point structure, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), and the like. In some embodiments, a control circuit is located on PCBA 160.

控制电路可包括例如一个或多个处理器160a以及一个或多个存储器设备160b，例如，在一些实施例中控制电路实施为具有存储器的一微处理器。存储器设备160b可包括一个或多个程序存储器(proram memory)、一高速缓冲存储器、随机存取存储器(RAM)、一只读存储器(ROM)，一闪存存储器，一硬盘致动器等和/或其它类型的存储器。存储器160b可以存储指令(例如，编译的可执行程序指令、未编译的程序代码、它们的某些组合等)，当指令由处理器160a操作(例如执行、转化、解释等)时，使得处理器160a操作转化、逻辑以及其它本文所述的过程。例如，处理器160a可以将经由以太网物理层(Ethernet PHY)160c接收的基于以太网的协议信号转化为基于非以太网的协议信号，且反之亦然，例如用于为服务器132与灯110a-n或其它设备108和传感器112a-n之间提供通信。PCBA 160还可包括传感器160d，传感器160d与传感器112a-n相同或不同。PCBA 160上可以包括多个传感器类型和/或多个传感器160d。PCBA 160还可包括一电源转换器160e，例如用于将来自PoE输入的48V DC电源转换为5V DC和3.3V DC等，以为处理器160a、以太网PHY 160c等提供功率。控制器118还可以例如经由RS485输入/输出(I/O)160f将功率传递给设备108。在PCBA 160上可以包括另外的或替代的部件，包括但不限于一板载模数转换器和/或可以配置为将模拟信号转换为数字信号(例如用于处理)的其它电路。PCBA 160还可包括用于处理信号等的数字调理(conditioning)电路。The control circuit may include, for example, one or more processors 160a and one or more memory devices 160b, eg, in some embodiments the control circuit is implemented as a microprocessor with memory. Memory device 160b may include one or more program memories (proram memory), a cache memory, random access memory (RAM), read only memory (ROM), a flash memory, a hard drive, etc. and/or other types of memory. Memory 160b may store instructions (e.g., compiled executable program instructions, uncompiled program code, some combination thereof, etc.) that, when operated on (e.g., executed, translated, interpreted, etc.) by processor 160a, cause 160a operates transformations, logic, and other processes described herein. For example, the processor 160a may convert an Ethernet-based protocol signal received via an Ethernet PHY 160c to a non-Ethernet-based protocol signal, and vice versa, for example, for connecting the server 132 to the light 110a- Communication is provided between n or other device 108 and sensors 112a-n. The PCBA 160 may also include a sensor 160d, which may be the same as or different from the sensors 112a-n. Multiple sensor types and/or multiple sensors 160d may be included on PCBA 160. The PCBA 160 may also include a power converter 160e, for example, for converting 48V DC power from the PoE input to 5V DC and 3.3V DC, etc., to provide power for the processor 160a, Ethernet PHY 160c, etc. Controller 118 may also deliver power to device 108, eg, via RS485 input/output (I/O) 160f. Additional or alternative components may be included on PCBA 160, including but not limited to an on-board analog-to-digital converter and/or other circuitry that may be configured to convert analog signals to digital signals (eg, for processing). PCBA 160 may also include digital conditioning circuitry for processing signals and the like.

图3是一示例照明装置与控制器118a-n连接的实施方式的一框图。例如，控制器118n可以经由有线线束126连接于具有嵌入式的传感器112a的LED照明单元110c，以控制LED照明单元110c并从传感器112a接收传感器信息。在一些实施例中，控制器118a可以基于从传感器112a接收到的传感器信息在本地控制LED照明单元110c和/或将传感器信息传递给一远程服务器132。另外地或替代地，控制器118n可以经由有线线束126与低功率固持座222和远程传感器单元112n连接。其它实施方式也是可能的，例如一远程传感器与LED照明单元110c连接和传感器嵌入低功率固持座222等。FIG. 3 is a block diagram of an embodiment of an example lighting device coupled to controllers 118a-n. For example, the controller 118n may be connected via a wired harness 126 to the LED lighting unit 110c having the embedded sensor 112a to control the LED lighting unit 110c and receive sensor information from the sensor 112a. In some embodiments, the controller 118a may locally control the LED lighting unit 110c based on sensor information received from the sensor 112a and/or communicate the sensor information to a remote server 132 . Additionally or alternatively, controller 118n may be connected to low power holder 222 and remote sensor unit 112n via wired harness 126 . Other implementations are also possible, such as a remote sensor connected to the LED lighting unit 110c and the sensor embedded in the low power holder 222, etc.

图4是一示例分配器230a-n与控制器118a连接的实施方式的一框图。在一示例中，控制器118a与纸巾分配器230a-n的电机连接，以基于可用功率(available power)和从纸巾分配器230a-n的运动传感器112a-n接收到的信号来控制到纸巾分配器230a-n的功率。其它分配器230a-n包括但不限于肥皂、毛巾、乳液、空气、热空气、香水、声音、口头指示、信息、来自其它的通信或警告。Figure 4 is a block diagram of an embodiment of an example dispenser 230a-n connected to the controller 118a. In one example, the controller 118a interfaces with the motors of the paper towel dispensers 230a-n to control the dispensing of paper towels based on available power and signals received from the motion sensors 112a-n of the paper towel dispensers 230a-n. The power of the devices 230a-n. Other dispensers 230a-n include, but are not limited to, soap, towel, lotion, air, warm air, perfume, sound, verbal instructions, messages, communications or warnings from others.

图5是一示例遮光板232a-n与控制器118a连接的实施方式的一框图。遮光板232a-n可以与控制器118a连接以接收来自控制器118a的指令，例如，当打开、关闭等时。控制器118a可以集成于遮光板232a-n中并且/或与遮光板232a-n连接。在一示例中，例如，基于来自传感器112a的输入、来自服务器132的指令和/或来自控制器118a的指令等，控制器118a可以控制遮光板232a-n的电机的运行以移动遮光板232a-n。遮光板232a-n可以独立地寻址，例如用MAC寻址，使得控制器118a可以控制与控制器118a连接的遮光板232a-n中的一个或多个。在一些示例中，控制器118a可以基于来自与控制器118a连接的一环境光传感器112a的信息例如无线地或经由有线线束126来控制遮光板232a-n。控制器118a-n允许传感器112a和本文所述的任何其它传感器被热交换(hot-swapped)添加并从控制器118a-n移除。FIG. 5 is a block diagram of an exemplary implementation of the visors 232a-n in connection with the controller 118a. The visors 232a-n may be coupled to the controller 118a to receive instructions from the controller 118a, eg, when to open, close, etc. FIG. The controller 118a may be integrated in and/or connected to the shutters 232a-n. In one example, the controller 118a may control the operation of the motors of the visors 232a-n to move the visors 232a-n, eg, based on input from the sensor 112a, instructions from the server 132, and/or instructions from the controller 118a, etc. n. The gobos 232a-n may be individually addressable, such as with a MAC, such that the controller 118a may control one or more of the gobos 232a-n connected to the controller 118a. In some examples, the controller 118a may control the visors 232a - n based on information from an ambient light sensor 112a connected to the controller 118a , eg, wirelessly or via the wired harness 126 . Controllers 118a-n allow sensor 112a and any other sensors described herein to be hot-swapped added to and removed from controllers 118a-n.

图6是一示例传感器112a-n与控制器118a连接的实施方式的一框图。传感器112a-n可以与控制器118a连接以提供关于湿度、加速度、接近程度、磁、压力、运动、流量、CO/CO2、CCT、红/绿/蓝(RGB)光、环境光、主动或被动红外线(PIR)、视觉信息(例如来自一摄像机)、音频信息(例如来自一麦克风)、温度等的信息中的一个或多个。响应控制器118a接收由一个或多个传感器112a-n发送的数据，控制器118a可以提供视觉信号、音频信号等中的一种或多种。FIG. 6 is a block diagram of an embodiment of an example sensor 112a-n interfaced with a controller 118a. Sensors 112a-n may interface with controller 118a to provide information on humidity, acceleration, proximity, magnetism, pressure, motion, flow, CO/CO2, CCT, red/green/blue (RGB) light, ambient light, active or passive One or more of infrared (PIR), visual information (eg, from a camera), audio information (eg, from a microphone), temperature, etc. information. In response to the controller 118a receiving data sent by the one or more sensors 112a-n, the controller 118a may provide one or more of a visual signal, an audio signal, or the like.

图7是一示例固持座240与控制器118a连接的实施方式的一框图。在一些示例中，固持座240包括内置在其中的控制器118a，但是控制器118a可以与固持座240分离并与固持座240连接。固持座240还可包括一光源242(例如LED或荧光)。在一些实施中，固持座240是一凹形反光槽(troffer)。光源242和传感器112a与控制器118a连接。控制器118a基于来自传感器112a的信息可以触发光源242。FIG. 7 is a block diagram of an example implementation of the connection of the holder 240 to the controller 118a. In some examples, the holder 240 includes the controller 118a built into it, but the controller 118a can be separated from the holder 240 and connected to the holder 240 . The holder 240 may further include a light source 242 (such as LED or fluorescent light). In some implementations, the holding seat 240 is a concave reflective troffer. Light source 242 and sensor 112a are connected to controller 118a. Controller 118a may activate light source 242 based on information from sensor 112a.

图8是控制器118a-n的一示例通信逻辑154的一框图。为了便于解释，在一示例中，控制器118a接收由传感器112a(156)(例如一运动探测器，其探测在一确定时间内的运动或缺少运动的情况)报告的数据。传感器112a可以集成于灯110a中或与灯110a分离设置。另外，控制器118a-n可以集成于灯110a中或与灯110a分离。控制器118a可以处理从传感器112a以及任何其它传感器接收的数据，以基于数据(158)决定做什么动作。FIG. 8 is a block diagram of an example communication logic 154 for controllers 118a-n. For ease of explanation, in one example, controller 118a receives data reported by sensor 112a (156), such as a motion detector that detects motion or lack thereof for a certain period of time. The sensor 112a may be integrated in the lamp 110a or provided separately from the lamp 110a. Additionally, the controllers 118a-n may be integrated into the lamp 110a or separate from the lamp 110a. Controller 118a may process data received from sensor 112a, as well as any other sensors, to decide what action to do based on the data (158).

控制器118a可以将从传感器112a接收的数据发送给服务器132。在将数据发送给服务器132之前，控制器118a可以将来自被控制器118a使用的以与传感器112a通信的一种协议(例如RS485)的数据转化为用来与服务器132通信数据的另一种协议(例如一IEEE802.3以太网协议)。也可以使用其它协议。控制器128a-n还可以将经由IEEE 802.3以太网协议接收到的信息转化成RS485协议或其它本地协议(local protocol)。控制器118a可以基于从传感器112a接收的和由控制器118a(164)处理的数据通过将控制信息发送给灯110a来直接控制灯110a，例如打开/关闭灯110a、使灯变暗、使灯闪烁、使灯作为一应急指示器等，而不需要来自服务器132的输入。控制器118a还可以将数据和/或控制信息发送给其它控制器118n(166)，所述其它控制器118n(166)可以使用数据和/或控制信息以控制灯110n以及任何与控制器118n(160)连接的其它设备。通过使用控制器118a-n来处理数据和/或控制设备108，需要的以太网交换机能够比通常所需更少来控制超过一个的灯110a-n或其它设备108，而不是例如每个设备108需要一个交换机端口。另外地或替代地，控制器118a-n可以监控与服务器132的通信可用性，并且如果与服务器132的通信丢失，则控制器118a-n中的其中一个可以作为主控(master)控制其它控制器118a-n。Controller 118a may send data received from sensor 112a to server 132 . Controller 118a may convert data from one protocol (eg, RS485) used by controller 118a to communicate with sensor 112a to another protocol used to communicate data with server 132 before sending the data to server 132 (eg an IEEE802.3 Ethernet protocol). Other protocols may also be used. The controllers 128a-n may also convert information received via the IEEE 802.3 Ethernet protocol to the RS485 protocol or other local protocols. The controller 118a may directly control the light 110a by sending control information to the light 110a based on data received from the sensor 112a and processed by the controller 118a (164), such as turning the light 110a on/off, dimming the light, blinking the light , make the light act as an emergency indicator, etc., without requiring input from the server 132. Controller 118a may also send data and/or control information to other controllers 118n (166), which may use the data and/or control information to control lights 110n and any other controllers 118n (166). 160) Other devices connected. By using the controllers 118a-n to process data and/or control the devices 108, fewer Ethernet switches than would normally be required to control more than one light 110a-n or other device 108, rather than, for example, each device 108 A switch port is required. Additionally or alternatively, the controllers 118a-n may monitor the availability of communication with the server 132, and if communication with the server 132 is lost, one of the controllers 118a-n may act as a master to control the other controllers 118a-n.

图9是服务器132和控制器118a-n之间的一示例中继逻辑170的一框图。传感器112a向控制器118a(172)报告数据。控制器118a处理数据(174)。在该示例中，控制器118a确定将数据转发到服务器132以进一步处理(176)。控制器118a经由一本地协议(例如RS485)从传感器112a接收数据，并将数据转化为用于发送到服务器132的一广域的协议(例如IEEE802.3PoE)。在服务器132处理数据时，控制器118a从服务器132(178)接收控制指令。控制器118a基于从服务器132接收的控制信息控制灯110a以及与控制器118a连接的任何其它设备。控制器118a可以将控制信息转化为用于(例如经由线束126)发送给灯110a的本地协议。服务器132还可基于处理的传感器数据将控制信息发送给包括控制器118n的其它控制器118a-n。控制器118n可以基于控制信息控制灯110n以及与控制器118n连接的任何其它设备。通过使用控制器118a-n，控制超过一个的灯110a-n或其它设备108能够需要比以其它方式所需更少的以太网交换机。FIG. 9 is a block diagram of an example relay logic 170 between the server 132 and the controllers 118a-n. Sensor 112a reports data to controller 118a (172). Controller 118a processes the data (174). In this example, controller 118a determines to forward the data to server 132 for further processing (176). The controller 118a receives data from the sensor 112a via a local protocol (eg, RS485) and converts the data to a wide area protocol (eg, IEEE802.3PoE) for transmission to the server 132 . As server 132 processes data, controller 118a receives control instructions from server 132 (178). The controller 118a controls the lights 110a and any other devices connected to the controller 118a based on the control information received from the server 132 . Controller 118a may translate the control information into a local protocol for transmission (eg, via wiring harness 126) to lamp 110a. Server 132 may also send control information to other controllers 118a-n, including controller 118n, based on the processed sensor data. The controller 118n can control the lights 110n and any other devices connected to the controller 118n based on the control information. By using the controllers 118a-n, controlling more than one light 110a-n or other device 108 can require fewer Ethernet switches than would otherwise be required.

图10和图11是经由控制器118a-n的一示例功率共享逻辑的框图。在图10中，网络交换机138包括两个端口186a、186b，而图11是具有一个端口186a的一网络交换机138的一示例。为了便于解释，在一示例中，在图10中，控制器118a将两个设备108与端口186a连接而控制器118b将两个设备108与端口186b连接。端口186a、186b各允许例如按标准确定的高达60W的功率，并且每个设备108使用(consume)30W。在该示例中，控制器118a、118b基于可用功率不超过最大所需功率可以确定将功率传递给各设备108而无需使任何设备108置于待机模式下。10 and 11 are block diagrams of an example power sharing logic via controllers 118a-n. In FIG. 10, the network switch 138 includes two ports 186a, 186b, while FIG. 11 is an example of a network switch 138 with one port 186a. For ease of explanation, in one example, in FIG. 10, controller 118a connects two devices 108 to port 186a and controller 118b connects two devices 108 to port 186b. Ports 186a, 186b each allow up to 60W of power, eg as determined by standards, and each device 108 consumes 30W. In this example, the controllers 118a, 118b may determine to transfer power to the devices 108 without placing any devices 108 in standby mode based on the available power not exceeding the maximum required power.

在图11的示例中，控制器118a允许比以其它方式(例如基于标准、安全实验所(UL)限制等)连接到控制器118a的设备108更多的设备108与控制器118a连接。例如，连接于控制器118a的多个设备108的功率需求可以超过由标准确定的功率限制。例如，交换机138的端口186a在标准下提供一最大60W输出并且控制器118a以菊花链的方式与四个设备108连接，每个设备108需要30W峰值功率。在一示例中，控制器118a可以通过将功率分配特限从设备108传递到设备108来使多个设备108共享可用功率。例如，控制器118a将多个设备108置于功率待机状态，直到一设备108从控制器118a请求功率。如果可以为该设备108分配功率，则控制器118a授权该设备108而使该请求退出待机模式并使用功率，否则该设备108保持待机。控制器118a可以确定何时向设备108提供功率和/或设备108可以在需要时从控制器118a请求功率。控制器118a可以确定哪些设备108未处于待机状态但不是使用功率的时间最长并将这些设备108置于待机模式。这允许任何数量的设备108与控制器118a连接，其中控制器118a允许有限数量的设备108在任何时间具有它们所需的满(full)功率。例如，并不是所有的遮光板116、232a-n需要同时触发。一些遮光板可以等待直到控制器118a授权使用功率。在另一示例中，一些设备108可能仅需要在满功率下被节约(sparingly)地使用。例如，控制器118a可以指示一不太活跃的纸巾分配器在需要之前保持待机模式，同时授权一更活跃的纸巾分配器来接收功率。根据激活周期的持续时间，一用户可能甚至未注意到设备108处于待机模式。通过减少每个设备108所需的端口186a的数量和/或控制器118a-n的数量，控制器118a能够提供安装成本的降低，包括但不限于减少端口186a的数量、减少交换机138的数量、减少布线的数量、需要更小的用于交换机138的存储空间、更低的加热、通风和空调(HVAC)负载等。例如，一PoE连接用于每个设备108是不需要的。In the example of FIG. 11 , the controller 118a allows more devices 108 to connect to the controller 118a than would otherwise (eg, standards based, safety laboratory (UL) restrictions, etc.) connect to the controller 118a. For example, the power requirements of the plurality of devices 108 connected to the controller 118a may exceed power limits determined by standards. For example, port 186a of switch 138 provides a maximum 60W output as standard and controller 118a is connected in a daisy-chain fashion to four devices 108, each device 108 requiring 30W peak power. In an example, controller 118a may cause multiple devices 108 to share available power by passing power allocation restrictions from device 108 to device 108 . For example, the controller 118a places multiple devices 108 in a power standby state until a device 108 requests power from the controller 118a. If power can be allocated to the device 108, the controller 118a grants the device 108 the request to exit standby mode and use power, otherwise the device 108 remains in standby. Controller 118a may determine when to provide power to device 108 and/or device 108 may request power from controller 118a when needed. The controller 118a may determine which devices 108 have not been in standby but not using power the longest and place those devices 108 in standby mode. This allows any number of devices 108 to be connected to the controller 118a, where the controller 118a allows a limited number of devices 108 to have the full power they need at any one time. For example, not all visors 116, 232a-n need be activated at the same time. Some visors may wait until the controller 118a authorizes the use of power. In another example, some devices 108 may only need to be used sparingly at full power. For example, the controller 118a may instruct a less active towel dispenser to remain in standby mode until needed, while authorizing a more active towel dispenser to receive power. Depending on the duration of the activation period, a user may not even notice that the device 108 is in standby mode. By reducing the number of ports 186a and/or the number of controllers 118a-n required per device 108, the controller 118a can provide a reduction in installed cost, including but not limited to reducing the number of ports 186a, reducing the number of switches 138, Reduced amount of wiring, less storage space required for switch 138, lower heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) loads, etc. For example, a PoE connection for each device 108 is not required.

图12是一示例注入器点190与控制器118a集成和/或实施的一框图。注入器点190包括与控制器118a连接的一AC-DC恒压的电源192，以针对功率分布点190提供不同于基于IEEE 802.3的PoE协议(例如12.5W PoE、25W PoE+和51W UPoE等)通常可用的功率选项。电源192和控制器118a可以收容于同一壳体194中，或者控制器118a可以单独地被收容。电源192经由插头196接收一AC输入202(例如110V/277V或其它电压)，且向插头198输出用于为设备108提供功率的一恒定的150W-250W、48V-56V电压。根据一实施方式，可以使用其它功率值和电压值。控制器118a可以经由以太网插头200(例如容纳一RJ45连接器)接收数据和功率。控制器118a将数据转化为另一种协议(例如，RS232、RS485、CAN、BACnet、数字可寻址照明接口(DALI)、transcend等)，并将转化的数据发送到插头198，以用于经由插头198输出数据。12 is a block diagram of an example injector point 190 integrated and/or implemented with controller 118a. The injector point 190 includes an AC-DC constant voltage power supply 192 connected to the controller 118a to provide different IEEE 802.3-based PoE protocols (such as 12.5W PoE, 25W PoE+, and 51W UPoE, etc.) for the power distribution point 190. available power options. The power supply 192 and the controller 118a may be housed in the same housing 194, or the controller 118a may be housed separately. Power supply 192 receives an AC input 202 (eg, 110V/277V or other voltage) via plug 196 and outputs a constant 150W-250W, 48V-56V voltage to plug 198 for powering device 108 . According to an embodiment, other power and voltage values may be used. Controller 118a may receive data and power via Ethernet plug 200 (eg, accommodates an RJ45 connector). Controller 118a converts the data to another protocol (e.g., RS232, RS485, CAN, BACnet, Digital Addressable Lighting Interface (DALI), transcend, etc.) and sends the converted data to plug 198 for use via The plug 198 outputs data.

图13是一示例低压输出注入器点190的一框图，其中多个设备108菊花链式连接在一起。在一示例中，多个设备108包括多个低压LED设备。在一些实施例中，各设备108包括集成于或连接于但处于与设备108分离的外壳(enclosure)中的一控制器118a-n。多个设备108可以经由多个线束126与多个连接器127以一菊花链式连接的方式连接在一起。多个设备108还可以经由线束126连接于注入器点190。菊花链式连接的多个设备108可以是单独寻址的(例如，使用一MAC地址)，用于由一主控制器118a-n对多个设备108进行单独和/或组合控制。当从控制器118a-n添加和移除多个设备108时，控制器118a-n可以更新连接于控制器118a-n的多个设备108的列表。FIG. 13 is a block diagram of an example low voltage output injector point 190 in which multiple devices 108 are daisy-chained together. In an example, number of devices 108 includes a number of low voltage LED devices. In some embodiments, each device 108 includes a controller 118a - n integrated or connected to but in an enclosure separate from the device 108 . Multiple devices 108 may be connected together in a daisy-chained manner via multiple wire harnesses 126 and multiple connectors 127 . Multiple devices 108 may also be connected to injector point 190 via wire harness 126 . Daisy-chained multiple devices 108 may be individually addressable (eg, using a MAC address) for individual and/or group control of multiple devices 108 by a master controller 118a-n. As multiple devices 108 are added and removed from controllers 118a-n, controllers 118a-n may update the list of multiple devices 108 connected to controllers 118a-n.

图14是另一示例的基于低压的注入器点190的一框图。在一些示例中，注入器点190可以提供多个通道的输出210a-n，例如四个通道，各通道具有一子地址。各输出210a-n可以连接于一设备108(例如低压设备)，且在多个通道上低压设备及其它低压设备1-N可以菊花链式连接。FIG. 14 is a block diagram of another example low pressure based injector point 190 . In some examples, injector site 190 may provide multiple channels of output 210a-n, for example four channels, each channel having a sub-address. Each output 210a-n can be connected to a device 108 (eg, a low voltage device), and the low voltage device and other low voltage devices 1-N can be daisy chained on multiple channels.

图12至图14的注入器点190的一些优点包括但不限于：能够将来自AC线路的辅助电源转换供控制器118a使用、将以太网协议转换为一低级协议，经由单个或多个输入将DC功率和数据传输到多个设备108、将AC辅助输入与PoE功率输入隔离、提供功率管理和/或应急照明方案、提供网络升级，能够用作一区域注入器点(zone injector point)、提供符合IEEE 802.3但不限于60W或其它瓦特的最大功率、不需要设备108经由基于以太网的协议进行通信、为各种设备组(例如菊花链式配置的灯、服务器、致动器)提供功率和控制、提供一可靠且稳健的网络(因为以太网和AC电源中的一个或多个可用)，能够在辅助电源尚失时使用UPoE作为一紧急备用(例如紧急/生死攸关的照明需求)，能够在当PoE功率/控制尚失时使用辅助电源、最小化所需供电端设备(PSE)端口的数量和/或削减低压基础设施的成本。Some advantages of the injector point 190 of FIGS. 12-14 include, but are not limited to: the ability to convert auxiliary power from the AC line for use by the controller 118a, convert the Ethernet protocol to a low-level protocol, DC power and data transfer to multiple devices 108, isolate AC auxiliary input from PoE power input, provide power management and/or emergency lighting solutions, provide network upgrades, can be used as a zone injector point (zone injector point), provide Complies with IEEE 802.3 but is not limited to a maximum power of 60W or other watts, does not require devices 108 to communicate via an Ethernet-based protocol, provides power to groups of various devices (e.g. lights, servers, actuators in a daisy chain configuration) and Control, provide a reliable and robust network (since one or more of Ethernet and AC power are available), be able to use UPoE as an emergency backup when auxiliary power is still lost (e.g. emergency/life-critical lighting needs), be able to Use auxiliary power when PoE power/control is not available, minimize the number of Power Source Equipment (PSE) ports required and/or cut the cost of low voltage infrastructure.

图15是用于一低压网络212的一示例架构的一框图。多个网络交换机138可以经由多根低压电源线216(例如48V DC)从一电源单元214接收功率。多个网络交换机138还可以从多个服务器132接收控制信息，并且可以经由例如以太网网络121网络连接在一起。电源单元214可以收容于一电气室218中，并且多个服务器132收容于一单独的信息技术(IT)室220中。多个网络交换机138可以将输入的功率和控制信息转换到PoE网络105并经由多根以太网线缆122将功率和控制信息发送给控制器118a-n。控制器118a-n可以将基于PoE的协议转换为用于与设备108通信的一低级协议。控制器118a-n可以无线地和/或经由一有线线束126与多个设备108连接，用于向多个设备108发送功率和/或数据以控制多个设备108。FIG. 15 is a block diagram of an example architecture for a low voltage network 212 . Network switches 138 may receive power from a power unit 214 via low voltage power lines 216 (eg, 48V DC). Multiple network switches 138 may also receive control information from multiple servers 132 and may be networked together via, for example, Ethernet network 121 . The power supply unit 214 may be housed in an electrical room 218 and the plurality of servers 132 housed in a separate information technology (IT) room 220 . Number of network switches 138 may convert incoming power and control information to PoE network 105 and send the power and control information to controllers 118a - n via number of Ethernet cables 122 . Controllers 118a - n may convert the PoE-based protocol to a low-level protocol for communicating with device 108 . The controllers 118 a - n may be connected to the plurality of devices 108 wirelessly and/or via a wired harness 126 for sending power and/or data to the plurality of devices 108 to control the plurality of devices 108 .

图16至图20是针对低压网络的各种功率提供场景的框图。在图16中，一接线盒228可以将一DC线230远程连接于网络交换机138，以用于向网络交换机138提供功率。在图17中，接线盒228还包括一AC/DC转换器以将一110V AC电源转换为48V DC，用于向网络交换机138输入功率。在图18中，接线盒228还包括一DC/DC转换器，用于将一600V DC电源转换为48V，用于向网络交换机138输入功率。在图19中，接线盒228本地位于网络交换机138，例如用于将600V DC转换为48V DC。在图20中，48V DC可以从电气室218提供给网络交换机138。其它实施方式和电压可用于到网络交换机138的线路和输入。Figures 16 to 20 are block diagrams of various power provisioning scenarios for low voltage networks. In FIG. 16 , a junction box 228 may remotely connect a DC line 230 to the network switch 138 for providing power to the network switch 138 . In FIG. 17 , the junction box 228 also includes an AC/DC converter to convert a 110V AC power source to 48V DC for inputting power to the network switch 138. In FIG. 18, the junction box 228 also includes a DC/DC converter for converting a 600V DC power supply to 48V for inputting power to the network switch 138. In FIG. 19, junction box 228 is located locally at network switch 138, for example for converting 600V DC to 48V DC. In FIG. 20 , 48V DC may be provided from electrical room 218 to network switch 138. Other implementations and voltages may be used for the lines and inputs to the network switch 138 .

本文提供的公开内容以其优选实施例及示范性实施例说明了各个特征。本领域技术人员在阅读本公开内容后将作出处于随附权利要求的范围和精神内的许多其它的实施例、修改以及变形。The disclosure provided herein describes various features in terms of their preferred and exemplary embodiments. Numerous other embodiments, modifications, and variations within the scope and spirit of the appended claims will occur to those skilled in the art after reading this disclosure.

本领域的技术人员将容易认识到的是，各种所述方法的步骤可以由编程计算机执行。在本文中，一些实施例旨在涵盖程序存储设备(例如，数字数据存储介质)，其是机器或计算机可读的并且编码机器可执行的或计算机可执行的指令程序，其中所述指令执行所述方法的一些或所有步骤。程序存储设备可以是例如数字存储器、磁存储介质(诸如磁盘或磁带)、硬盘驱动器或光学可读数字数据存储介质。所述实施例还旨在涵盖被编程为执行本文所述方法的所述步骤的计算机。A person skilled in the art would readily recognize that steps of various described methods can be performed by programmed computers. Herein, some embodiments are intended to cover program storage devices (e.g., digital data storage media) that are machine- or computer-readable and encode a program of machine-executable or computer-executable instructions, wherein the instructions perform the Some or all steps of the method described above. The program storage devices may be, for example, digital memories, magnetic storage media such as a magnetic disks or magnetic tapes, hard drives, or optically readable digital data storage media. The embodiments are also intended to cover computers programmed to perform said steps of the methods described herein.

文本描述的系统和过程的处理能力可以分布在多个系统部件之间，诸如多个处理器和存储器之间，可选地包括多个分布式处理系统。参数，数据库以及其它数据结构可以单独存储和管理，可以合并到单个存储器或数据库中，可以以许多不同的方式在逻辑上和物理上组织，并且可以以多种方式实现，包括诸如链表之类、哈希表或隐式存储机制的数据结构。程序可以是一单个程序的部分(例如子程序)、单独的程序、分布在若干存储器和处理器上或者以许多不同的方式实施，例如在库中，诸如共享库(例如，动态链接库)(DLL))。例如，DLL可以存储执行上述任何系统处理的代码。所述系统和方法可以在云上实施。The processing power of the systems and processes described herein can be distributed among multiple system components, such as multiple processors and memories, optionally including multiple distributed processing systems. Parameters, databases, and other data structures can be stored and managed separately, can be combined into a single memory or database, can be logically and physically organized in many different ways, and can be implemented in a variety of ways, including things like linked lists, A data structure for a hash table or implicit storage mechanism. A program may be part of a single program (e.g., a subroutine), a separate program, distributed over several memories and processors, or implemented in many different ways, for example in a library, such as a shared library (e.g., a dynamic link library) ( DLL)). For example, a DLL may store code that performs any of the system processes described above. The systems and methods can be implemented on the cloud.

本文已经关于本发明的具体实施例说明了益处、其它优点和问题的解决方案。然而，益处、优点、问题的解决方案以及可能引起或产生此类益处、优点或解决方案或引起此类益处、优点或解决方案变得更加明显的任何要素不应被解释为任何或所有权利要求的关键的、所需的或必要的特征或要素。Benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have been described herein with respect to specific embodiments of this invention. However, benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any element that may cause or produce such benefits, advantages or solutions, or cause such benefits, advantages or solutions to become more apparent, shall not be construed as construing that any or all of the claims key, desired or necessary features or elements of

如本文和所附权利要求中所使用的术语“一般式的包括(comprises)”、“动名词式的包括(comprising)”或其任何其它变型旨在表示非排他性的包含，使得包括元件列表的过程、方法、制品或装置不是仅包括列表中的那些元件，而是可以包括未明确列出的或者这些过程、方法、制品或装置固有的其他元件。这里使用的术语“用于辅音的不定冠词(a)”或“用于元音的不定冠词(an)”被定义为一个或多于一个。这里使用的术语“多个”被定义为两个或多于两个。如本文所用的术语“另一个”定义为至少一第二个或更多个。除非本文另有说明，否则使用关系的术语(如果有的话，如第一和第二、顶部和底部等)仅用于将一个实体或动作与另一个实体或动作区分开，而不必要求或暗示此类实体或动作之间的任何实际的这种关系或顺序。As used herein and in the appended claims, the term "comprises generically," "comprising gerund," or any other variation thereof, is intended to mean a non-exclusive inclusion such that the list of elements included A process, method, article, or apparatus includes not only those elements listed, but may include other elements not explicitly listed or inherent to the process, method, article, or apparatus. The term "indefinite article (a) for consonants" or "indefinite article (an) for vowels" as used herein is defined as one or more than one. As used herein, the term "plurality" is defined as two or more than two. The term "another" as used herein is defined as at least a second or more. Unless otherwise indicated herein, use of relational terms (if any, such as first and second, top and bottom, etc.) is used only to distinguish one entity or action from another and does not necessarily require or Any actual such relationship or order between such entities or actions is implied.

这里使用的术语“包含(including)”和/或“具有(having)”被定义为包括(即，开放式语言)。如本文所使用的术语“连结”被定义为连接，但不一定是直接连接，并且不一定是机械连接。源自“动名词形成的指示(indicating)”一词的术语(例如，“一般式形式的指示(indicates)”和“名词形式的指示(indication)”)旨在包含可用于传达或参考所指示的对象/信息的所有各种技术。可用于传达或参考所指示的对象/信息的技术的一些但非全部的示例包含所指示的对象/信息的传达、所指示的对象/信息的标识符的传达、用于生成所指示的对象/信息的信息的传达、所指示的对象/信息的某些部分或部分的传达、所指示的对象/信息的一些推导的传达以及表示所指示的对象/信息的某个符号的传达。As used herein, the terms "including" and/or "having" are defined as comprising (ie, open language). The term "linked" as used herein is defined as connected, although not necessarily directly, and not necessarily mechanically. Terms derived from the word "indicating" formed by a gerund (e.g., "indicates in general form" and "indication in noun form") are intended to include terms that may be used to convey or refer to the indicated All various technologies for objects/information. Some, but not all, examples of techniques that may be used to communicate or refer to indicated objects/information include communication of indicated objects/information, communication of identifiers of indicated objects/information, methods for generating indicated objects/information The communication of the information of the information, the communication of some part or part of the indicated object/information, the communication of some derivation of the indicated object/information, and the communication of a certain symbol representing the indicated object/information.

鉴于本领域公知的内容，本文提供了详细且有时非常具体的说明，以使本领域技术人员能够制造、使用和最佳实践本发明。在示例中，提供细节是为了说明本发明的可能的实施例，而不应解释为约束或限制更为广泛的发明构思的范围。In view of what is known in the art, detailed and sometimes very specific instructions are provided herein to enable those skilled in the art to make, use and best practice the invention. In the examples, details are provided to illustrate possible embodiments of the invention and should not be construed to restrict or limit the scope of the broader inventive concept.