Modular combined optical data network and independent DC power distribution system

摘要

This invention relates to a modular combined optical data and electrical power distribution network and related system. More particularly the invention relates to a system for bi directional high-speed distribution of data and the universal transmission of significant quantities of electrical power using composite cabling which is adapted for connection to a plurality of peripheral components and devices. Previous data networks, particularly in domestic environments, for example for controlling personal computers, laptops and peripherals such as printers and scanners required dedicated power supplies and resulted in a tangled mass of wires and cabling often seen as clutter and sometimes posing safety hazards. The invention overcomes this problem by providing a relatively low voltage continual power bus, in the form of a dual or multi-core wire, which typically carries up to 100-200 Watts per node and which is also capable of carrying high volumes of data traffic typically in excess of 1 GBit/sec. The invention comprises: a data bus and an electrical conductor encased within a sleeving, the data bus defining a path for data and the conductor defining an electrical path. The sleeving is shaped and dimensioned so as to be capable of receiving junction connectors which, in use pierce the sleeving, so as to provide simultaneous connection to the data bus and electrical path. This is combined with intelligent power and data circuitry.

主权项

1. A system for power distribution and data communication comprising:
a network having a data bus and an electrical conductor, the data bus and electrical conductor being encased within a sleeving, the data bus defining a path for data, and the conductor defining an electrical path for power, whereby in use appliances are connected to the network; wherein the sleeving is shaped and dimensioned to be capable of receiving junction connectors for providing simultaneous communication to the data bus and contact with the electrical path, and wherein a junction connector connects an appliance to the network and provides simultaneous communication to/from the data bus and electrical connector from/to the connected appliance; a processor adapted as a controller to monitor a supply of electrical energy to the appliance and relay data relating to a condition or state of the system via either the data bus or the electrical conductor to an appliance selected from a hierarchy of a plurality of appliances in accordance with at least one predetermined criterion including power consumption requirements of each of said plurality of appliances; and a switch to adjust a state or condition of the appliance by way of a means for isolating appliances which turns on or turns off the appliance upon receipt of a control signal from the controller in accordance with the at least one predetermined criterion including hierarchical significance.