WO2025010189A1

WO2025010189A1 - Intelligent edge convergence system

Info

Publication number: WO2025010189A1
Application number: PCT/US2024/035842
Authority: WO
Inventors: Michael Gregory German; Ronna Ellen DAVIS; Wayne Hopkinson; Jason BAUTISTA; Thomas EASTHAM
Original assignee: Commscope Technologies LLC
Current assignee: Commscope Technologies LLC
Priority date: 2023-07-06
Filing date: 2024-06-27
Publication date: 2025-01-09
Anticipated expiration: 2026-01-06

Abstract

An intelligent consolidated enclosure system is provided that includes a plurality of spaced edge convergence points positioned within a building. Each edge convergence point is located in an associated unique location within the building to provide services to the unique associated location. Each edge convergence point includes an edge convergence switch and an intelligent control board (ICB). The edge convergence switch is coupled to a plurality of the powered network devices providing services with the associated unique location. The ICB is coupled to the edge convergence switch and a central power supply. The ICB is configured to manage power distribution and monitoring for the associated plurality of the powered network devices.

Description

INTELLIGENT EDGE CONVERGENCE SYSTEM

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This Application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 63/512,241, same title herewith, filed on July 6, 2023, which is incorporated in its entirety herein by reference.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Buildings may incorporate a distributed cabling system to provide services and monitoring functions in different areas of the building. Examples of monitoring functions include fire sensors, moisture sensors, temperature sensors, CO2 sensors, etc. Examples of systems to provide services to an area of a building are lights, WiFi access, a distributed antenna system (DAS), etc. A DAS is commonly used to provide enhanced cellular phone coverage in indoor environments that frequently have insufficient coverage from outdoor cellular base stations due to increased signal attenuation caused by building structures. A DAS system is commonly comprised of multiple radio antennas that are distributed throughout the building. A base station downlink wireless signal may be captured and distributed by cables to the multiple radio antennas of the DAS which then retransmits the signal within the building. Likewise for the cellular uplink, the distributed radio antennas capture the uplink wireless signal from user equipment, such as mobile phones and these signals are amplified and routed by the cables back to the base station receiver equipment. In some implementations the distribution is achieved between the radio antennas and the base station equipment using electrical signals on electrically conductive cables either as RF or digital signals. In other implementations distribution is achieved between the radio antennas and the base station equipment using optical signals carried on optical fiber cables.

[0003] Distributed hybrid cabling systems through the building may provide data communications and power delivery to devices that provide the service and monitoring functions in the different areas of the building. Hybrid cabling includes an optical cable (or fiber) for data and a copper cable to deliver power and data. Modem buildings benefit from monitoring power usage. Monitoring power usage allows for a power system to direct power to needed areas within a building and also can provide an indication that there may be an issue in an area of the building.

[0004] For the reasons stated above and for other reasons stated below which will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading and understanding the present specification, there is a need in the art for effective and efficient manner to monitor power usages and data connections within a building.

SUMMARY

[0005] The following summary is made by way of example and not by way of limitation. It is merely provided to aid the reader in understanding some of the aspects of the subject matter described. Embodiments provide an intelligent edge convergence system for distribution, monitoring and management of power and data connections.

[0006] In one example, an intelligent edge convergence system that includes a plurality of spaced edge convergence points is provided. Each edge convergence point is located in an associated unique location within a building to provide services to the unique associated location. Each edge convergence point includes an edge convergence switch and an ICB. The edge convergence switch is coupled to a plurality of powered network devices that provide services within the associated unique location. The ICB is coupled to the edge convergence switch. The ICB is also coupled to a central power supply. The ICB is configured to manage power distribution and monitoring for the associated plurality of the powered network devices.

[0007] In another example, a method of defining end-to-end power in a data and voltage network in a building with an intelligent edge convergence system is provided. The method includes identifying a channel that is powering an ICB of an edge convergence point of a plurality of edge convergence points; identifying powered network devices coupled to ports of at least one edge convergence switch in the edge convergence point of the plurality edge convergence points with the ICB; and managing a routing of data and power at the edge convergence point of the plurality of edge convergence points with the ICB based on the identified channel that is powering the ICB and the identified powered network devices coupled to ports of the at least one edge convergence switch.

[0008] In yet another example, a method of defining an end-to-end data connectivity in a data and voltage network in a building with an intelligent edge convergence system is provided. The method includes determining network switch information with communications from an ICB within an edge convergence point; and determining connectivity between switch ports of at least one power distribution panel switch in a main equipment room and switch ports of at least one edge convergence switch in the edge convergence point.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] The present invention can be more easily understood and further advantages and uses thereof will be more readily apparent, when considered in view of the detailed description and the following figures in which:

[0010] Figure 1 is an illustration of an intelligent edge convergence system within a building according to an example aspect of the preset invention.

[0011] Figure 2 is an illustration of a floor level diagram of a building including a plurality of edge convergence points of the intelligent edge convergence system according to one example aspect of the present invention.

[0012] Figure 3 is an illustration of a partial diagram of power connectivity though an edge convergence point according to one example aspect of the present invention.

[0013] Figure 4 is an illustration of a partial diagram of network connectivity through an edge convergence point according to one example aspect of the present invention.

[0014] Figure 5 is a flow diagram illustrating a method of defining end-to-end power in a data and voltage network in a building having an intelligent edge convergence system with edge convergence points according to one example aspect of the present invention.

[0015] Figure 6 is a flow diagram illustrating a method of defining end-to-end data connectivity in a data and voltage network in a building having an intelligent edge convergence system with edge convergence points according to one example aspect of the present invention.

[0016] In accordance with common practice, the various described features are not drawn to scale but are drawn to emphasize specific features relevant to the present invention. Reference characters denote like elements throughout Figures and text.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION [0017] In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof, and which are shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the inventions may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention, and it is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present invention is defined only by the claims and equivalents thereof.

[0018] Embodiments of the present invention provide an intelligent edge convergence system for distribution, monitoring and management of power and data connections for information technology (IT) systems and operational technology (OT) equipment. Embodiments of the present invention take advantage of distributed hybrid cabling that includes fiber cabling to deliver data and copper cabling to deliver power and data to edge convergence points. The power may come from a central control that may be in a control room (equipment room, telecom room, etc.) in a building. In embodiments, each edge convergence point is positioned to cover (provided services to) a specific area of a building. The edge convergence points may be located in or on a ceiling, in or on a wall and under a floor, etc. In one example, the building is separated into distribution zones. Embodiments control the flow of data and power from each edge convergence point to an associated distribution zone. Each edge convergence point distributes power and data to powered network devices (IT and OT equipment and systems) within its associated distribution zone.

[0019] Referring to Figure 1, an illustration of building 101 with an intelligent edge convergence system 100 of one example is provided. As illustrated, the intelligent edge convergence system 100 includes a plurality of spaced positioned edge convergence points 104. Building 101, in this example, includes a building control 102 in an equipment room 105 or telecom room. Figure 2 illustrates a floor level diagram 200 of building 101 of Figure 1. In this example, the fifth floor of building 101 is illustrated. As illustrated in Figure 2, different zones 220 are designated within building 101. An edge convergence point 104 covers (or serves) an associated zone. For example, as illustrated, first edge convergence point 104 (CP5-1) covers a first zone 220 of the fifth floor and a second edge convergence point 104 (CP5-2) covers a second zone 220 of the fifth floor of building 101. Hence, each edge convergence point 104 has a defined unique location within building 101. Powered network devices (IT and OT equipment and systems), are in power and data communication with an associated edge convergence point 104. Examples of powered network devices include, but are not limited to, a light sensor and light control 202-1, a temperature sensor and control 202-2, an image capture and image control 202-3, a WiFi access point 202-4, a hardwired local computer system 202-6, a hardwired telephone 202-7, a wireless communication access point 202-8 (such as DAS access point), etc. The powered network devices 202-1 through 202-8 may be generally references by 202.

[0020] The intelligent edge convergence system 100, in an example, is an internet of things (loT) system that collects and generates real time and location-based power usage, network connectivity, environmental and sustainability data that can be shared to a remote location. Each edge convergence point 104 provides a unique set of data associated with the location (its associated zone) within building 101. Further in embodiments, each edge convergence point 104 is an OT and IT communication hub providing power and data information to the IT and OT equipment and systems. An edge convergence point 104 may communicate data with a powered network device 202, either wirelessly or wired. Examples of wireless communication include the use of Bluetooth or WiFi communications.

[0021] Embodiments further allow for the monitoring of power usage by the powered network devices 202 and environmental conditions within each zone. In examples, power used to power the powered network devices 202 is provided by a central power supply 230 in the main equipment room 105. In other embodiments the central power supply 230 is at a remote location from the main equipment room 105. Power is distributed to the edge convergence points 104 throughout building 101 through the use of a power backplane 240. The power backplane 240, in embodiments, gathers information on how much power is to be provisioned to each edge convergence point 104 and how much power is to be distributed by the edge convergence point 104 to associated powered network devices 202 with an associated covered zone. This allows the building control 102 or another system controller at a remote location to monitor power usage throughout building 101. Knowing power usage throughout a building may be used to manage power usage or distribution from the building control 102. For example, the information could be used to change power delivery patterns. It also allows for the metrics associated with efficiency such as how much power is lost in cabling used to deliver the power to an associated edge convergence point 104. Because of lengths of cabling, power losses and hence delivered power to edge convergence point 104 may be different. Further knowing the power usage at an edge convergence point 104 gives insights on how the power is being used.

[0022] In an embodiment, each edge convergence point 104 includes at least one switch. Figure 3 illustrates a partial diagram of an edge convergence point 104 with a plurality of edge convergence switches 312 of one example. The edge convergence switches 312 in this example are power over Ethernet (PoE) switches. Information from an edge convergence switch 312 includes how many powered network devices 202 are connected to the edge convergence point 104 and which ports 320 of each edge convergence switch 312 are currently being used. Further in an example, each edge convergence switch 312 is coupled to an intelligent control board (ICB) 306 via an associated power outlet 321. In one example, each edge convergence switch 312 is coupled to a mounting rail and is plugged into an associated power outlet 321 that is part of the ICB 306.

[0023] Information about bandwidth utilization per port 320 can also be obtained in an example. With the use of at least one edge convergence switch 312, the ICB 306 of each edge convergence point 104 can determine power usage per powered network device 202. Further the main equipment room 105 may also include a power distribution panel switch 310 as illustrated in Figure 3. The power distribution panel switch 310 is a power distribution panel in this example. With the use of the power distribution panel switch 310, power used per each edge convergence point 104 can be determined. Hence, embodiments allow for the determination of power usage by each edge convergence point 104 as well as for powered network devices 202 receiving power from each edge convergence point 104 at a signal distribution point in the main equipment room 105.

[0024] Figure 3 further illustrates power transmitter 315 of the central power supply 230. Also illustrated in Figure 3 is a class 4 power connection link 308 between the power distribution panel switch 310 and the ICB 306 of the edge convergence point 104. This class 4 power connection link 308 accounts for a first power loss. An ethemet (PoE)/copper (CU) link between the edge convergence switch 312 of the edge convergence point 104 and powered network device 202 accounts for a second power loss. Further, power transmitter 315 accounts for a first power usage. The ICB 306 in the edge convergence point 104 accounts for a second power usage. The edge convergence switch 312 accounts for a third power usage and powered network device 202 accounts for a fourth power usage in the example of Figure 3.

[0025] The ICB 306 may communicate with power sourcing equipment (PSE) 304 in edge convergence point 104 to identify a channel that is powering the ICB 306. In one example, this is done by having the PSE 304 send a power test pattern (on-off-on). The ICB 306 may manage routing/powering of power outlets within the edge convergence point 104. When the edge convergence switch 312 is connected to a powered network device 202 via port 320, the ICB 306 identifies the port 320 that was connected by receiving information directly from the switch 312 in an example. This information may be used to define an end- to-end power circuit between the PSE 304 of the edge convergence point 104 and an end device 202 showing power usage and power loss at each connection point.

[0026] In an example, each ICB 306 includes any one or more of a processor 307, microprocessor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field program gate array (FPGA), or equivalent discrete or integrated logic circuitry. In some example embodiments, controller may include multiple components, such as any combination of one or more microprocessors, one or more controllers, one or more DSPs, one or more ASICs, one or more FPGAs, as well as other discrete or integrated logic circuitry. The functions attributed to the ICB 306 herein may be embodied as software, firmware, hardware or any combination thereof. The ICB 306 may include a memory 309 with computer-readable operating instructions that, when executed by a processor 307 of the ICB 306 provides functions of the ICB 306. The computer readable instructions may be encoded within memory 309. Memory 309 is an appropriate non-transitory storage medium or media including any volatile, nonvolatile, magnetic, optical, or electrical media, such as, but not limited to, a random-access-memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), non-volatile RAM (NVRAM), electrically-erasable programmable ROM (EEPROM), flash memory, or any other storage medium.

[0027] In one example, the ICB 306 is configured to monitor power consumption on each power outlet port 321 in an associated edge convergence point 104. The ICB 306 is further able to interact with each edge convergence switch 312 in the associated edge convergence point 104. This interaction may be accomplished, for example, using a command line interface (CLI), an application programming interface (API) or a simple network management protocol (SNMP) interface. From these communication interfaces, power consumption data by each convergence switch 312 may be acquired. In an example, power consumption is monitored by the ICB 306 on each power outlet 321 to determine power connectivity between a power outlet 321 and a specific switch 312. In one example, obtained power consumption data obtained by the ICB 306 includes power consumption at specific ports 320 of each edge convergence switch 312.

[0028] Figure 4 illustrates a partial illustration of network connectivity of edge convergence point 104. In this example, an equipment room switch 412, a fiber optic switch in this example, in the main equipment room 105 is connected with a fiber optic cable to a fiber optic distribution panel 410. The equipment room switch 412 includes a plurality of switch ports 411. The fiber optic distribution panel 410 is coupled to a fiber optic distribution module 406 in the edge convergence point 104 via fiber optic cable 408. The fiber optic distribution module 406 is couped to the edge convergence switch 312 (which is a PoE switch in this example). The PoE switch is coupled to at least one powered network device 202 in this example via copper cable 305.

[0029] In an example, the ICB 306 communicates with network switches, such as network switches 312 and 412 to discover switch identification, switch make and model number, number and type of ports, link status of switch ports, virtual local area network (VLAN) assignments, power over ethemet (PoE) usage per port, end devices that connected to switch ports, etc. Using at least one of an SNMP interface, CLI, and API, the ICB 306 in embodiments communicates with switches 310, 411 in the main equipment room 105 (telecom room) to discover connectivity between switch ports in the telecom room and in the edge convergence point 104 to provide real time connectivity information. ICB 306 may trigger a time-domain reflector (TDR) test on switch ports to check for presence of end device and to get cable length information.

[0030] ICB 306 may track data and PoE connectivity between a switch port and end device. The above information may be used to define end-to-end data connectivity circuit between switches 310 and 412 in the main equipment room 105 to the end devices 202.

[0031] The intelligent edge convergence system 100 of Figure 1, may include a separable power backplane that includes the ICB 306 and an electronic lock in an example. Besides each ICB 306 for an associated edge convergence point 104 managing power distribution, the ICB 306 in an example, may monitor and control temperature inside the edge convergence point 104 with sensors 334. Control of the temperature may be done by controlling a fan speed and a fan spin efficiency of a fan 332 in an edge convergence point 104 for maintaining proper operational conditions. The ICB 306 may monitor temperature, humidity, carbon dioxide, moisture level outside the edge convergence point 104 with one or more sensors 340, discussed below, and generate alarms in case environmental conditions exceed pre-defined limits above a desired environmental condition. In one example, the ICB 306 monitors access to the intelligent edge convergence system 100 to enable tracking implementation of maintenance tasks. Further in an example, a network addressable ICB 306 is used with web interface (wired or wireless connectivity) to enable system configuration and with an application programing interface (API). When installed, each ICB 306 may be programmed with an identification of an associated edge convergence point 104, IP address, indoor location coordinates (x, y, z), incoming cable ID, unique serial ID, serial ID for each switch, receiver/transmitter serial number. When integrated with a building’s digital twin, each edge convergence point 104 may automatically be added to its 3D model/virtual replica using indoor location coordinates, and will provide live location-based power usage, network connectivity, environmental and sustainability data. A digital twin is a virtual replica of a physical building and all associated technology systems, equipment, sensors, etc. The digital twin image may take advantage of combined data streams from individual building components to implement new services.

[0032] Further sensors 340 outside of an edge convergence point 104 may be in communication with the ICB 306 of the edge convergence point 104 to monitor a nonoccupied space, such as a space above ceiling tiles or within a wall. The sensors 340 may include, but are not limited to a humidity sensor, a temperature sensor, carbon dioxide sensor, air-quality sensor as well as other gas sensors. If data from one or more of the sensors indicate an issue, the associated ICB 306 may generate an alarm that is communicated to the main equipment room or a remote location that monitors the digital twin. Further, one or more of the powered network devices 202 may provide sensor information within its associated zone that causes an associated ICB 306 to generate and transmit a corresponding message. Hence, the ICB 306 of an edge convergence point 104 can provide real time information into a digital twin of the building that is referenced by the zone associated by the reporting ICB 306. As discussed above, the information may include power distribution information as well as alarms to provide up to date information in the digital twin.

[0033] In embodiments, the ICB 306 can support multiple modeling languages therein making it seamless for integrating it with various cloud-based digital twin and internet of things (loT) platforms such as, but not limited to, Microsoft ® Azure Digital Twins, Amazon loT Twinmaker, Oracle loT Digital Twin Framework, WillowTwin™ from Willowinc., and others. For example, models in Azure Digital Twin and WillowTwin™ are defined in a JSON-like language called Digital Twins Definition Language (DTDL), and they describe types of entities according to their state properties, telemetry events, commands, components, and relationships. Model language enables the creation of a “neural network” data structure, allowing digital twins to harness advanced analytics, machine learning, and perform intricate computation. With the use of a modeling language, an ICB 306 becomes an integral part of digital twin for a building and allows for the interaction with other models that are part of the same digital twin environment.

[0034] A method of defining end-to-end power in a data and voltage network in a building with an intelligent edge convergence system 100 is illustrated in flow diagram 500 of Figure 5. The method is provided in a series of sequential blocks in this example. The sequence of the block may occur in a different order or even in parallel in other examples. Hence, embodiments are not limited to the sequency of blocks in the example method as set out in flow diagram 500.

[0035] The method of defining end-to-end power in a data and voltage network in a building with an intelligent edge convergence system 100 includes, at block 502, identifying a channel that is powering an ICB 306 of an edge convergence point 104 of a plurality of edge convergence points. In one example, the identifying of the channel that is powering the ICB 306 is done with a power test pattern generated by power sourcing equipment of the edge convergence point 104.

[0036] At block 504, powered network devices 202 that are coupled to ports 320 of at least one edge convergence switch 312 in the edge convergence point 104 of the plurality of the edge convergence points 104 is identified by the ICB 306. In one example, the ICB 306 identifies the powered network devices 202 coupled to ports 320 of the at least one edge convergence switch 312 by receiving information directly from the at least one edge convergence switch 312.

[0037] Routing of data and power at an edge convergence point 104 are managed at block 506. In an example, the managing the routing of data and power with the ICB 306 is based on the identified channel that is powering the ICB 306 and the identified powered network devices 202 coupled to ports 320 of the at least one edge convergence switch 312. In one example, the edge convergence switch 312 is a PoE switch.

[0038] At block 508, power usage is determined. The power usage may be determined along an end-to-end power path from the main equipment room 105 to a powered network device 202. In an example, information obtained from the power test pattern may be used to determine power usage. Examples of power usage along an end-to-end power path include, referring to Figure 3, a first power usage by a power transmitter 315 of the main equipment room, a second power usage by the ICB 306, a third power usage by the edge convergence switch 312 (which may be an PoE switch) and a fourth power usage by an associated powered network device 202.

[0039] Further at block 510, power loss along an end-to-end power path is determined. Examples of where a power loss may occur are described in view of Figure 3. A first power loss may occur in the cable between the power output port 311 and the ICB 306 of the edge convergence point 104. A second power loss may occur between the edge convergence switch 312 and a powered network device 202. The power usage and power loss may be determined at each connection point (for example, each switch 310 and 312) at least in part by managing the switches and using the power test pattern provided by the power sourcing equipment of the edge convergence point 104.

[0040] Determined operating information such as determined power usage and loss information may be communicated at block 512. In one example, a wireless transceiver 300 in the edge convergence point 104 may be used to transmit power usage and loss information to a remote location such as, but not limited a cloud-based server that includes a digital twin of the building 101. The remote location may use the information to determine power needs at specific locations within building 101. In another example, the power usage and loss information may be communicated to a building controller 102 within building 101. Further in an example, a powered network device 202 that is configured to communicate data may be used to communicate the usage and loss information to the building controller 102 or to a remote location.

[0041] A method of defining end-to-end data connectivity in a data and voltage network in a building with edge convergence points is illustrated in flow diagram 600 of Figure 6. The method is provided in a series of sequential blocks in this example. The sequence of the block may occur in a different order or even in parallel in other examples. Hence, embodiments are not limited to the sequency of blocks in the example method as set out in flow diagram 600.

[0042] At block 602, network switch information is determined with communications from an intelligent control board (ICB) 306 within an edge convergence point 104. The switch information may include at least one of switch name, switch make, switch model number, number of switch ports, type of switch ports, link status of switch ports, virtual local area network (VLAN) assignments, PoE usage per port, and powered network devices connected to switch ports. In one example, the network switch information is obtained by the ICB 306 communicating with the network switches to obtain the network switch information.

[0043] The connectivity between switch ports of at least one equipment room switch 412 in a main equipment room and switch ports of at least one edge convergence point switch in at least one edge convergence point 104 is determined at block 604. In one example, the at least one equipment room switch 412 is a fiber optic switch. Further in one embodiment, the at least one edge convergence switch 312 is a power over Ethernet (PoE) switch. Further in one example, a convergence SNMP, API or CLI is used by the ICB 306 to determine connectivity between switch ports 411 of the at least one equipment room switch 412 in the main equipment room 105 and switch ports 320 of the at least one edge convergence switch 312.

[0044] At block 606, a time domain reflectometer (TDR) test is performed to determine connectivity at switch ports 320 of at least one edge convergence point 104 to determine presence of a powered network device 202 and at block 608 cable length information is also determined the TDR test. Further discovered data connectivity between the switch ports 411 of the at least one equipment room switch 412 in the main equipment room 105 and the switch ports 320 of the at least one edge convergence switch 312 of the edge convergence point 104 and cable length information may be communicated to a remote location at block 610.

[0045] The remote location may use the information to determine end-to-end connectivity within building 101. In another example, the information may be communicated to a building controller 102 within building 101. Further in an example, a powered network device 202 that is configured to communicate data may be used to communicate the information to the remote location.

[0046] Further, connectivity information in an example, may be used to discover real time connection changes between switch ports of at least one equipment room switch 412 in a main equipment room 105 and switch ports of at least one edge convergence point switch 312 in at least one edge convergence point 104. This is illustrated in block 612. This may be done by comparing connectivity information with a digital twin. Differences found in a comparison between the connectivity information and a digital twin would indicate a connection change. Further in one embodiment, a digital twin is configured to be automatically updated upon detection of a connection change at block 614.

EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

[0047] Example 1 includes an intelligent edge convergence system that includes a plurality of spaced edge convergence points. Each edge convergence point is located in an associated unique location within a building to provide services to the unique associated location. Each edge convergence point includes an edge convergence switch and an ICB. The edge convergence switch is coupled to a plurality of powered network devices that provide services within the associated unique location. The ICB is coupled to the edge convergence switch. The ICB is also coupled to a central power supply. The ICB is configured to manage power distribution and monitoring for the associated plurality of the powered network devices.

[0048] Example 2 includes the intelligent edge convergence system of Example 1, wherein the ICB is further configured to identify each powered network device coupled to the edge convergence switch of an associated edge convergence point and manage routing and powering of each powered network device. [0049] Example 3 includes the intelligent edge convergence system of Example 2, wherein the central power supply includes a power transmitter and a power distribution panel that is coupled to the power transmitter.

[0050] Example 4 includes the intelligent edge convergence system of any of the Examples 1-3, wherein the plurality of powered network devices include at least one of an information technology device and an operational technology device.

[0051] Example 5 includes the intelligent edge convergence system of any of the Examples 1-4, wherein the plurality of powered network devices include at least one of a light sensor, a light control, a temperature sensor, a temperature control, an image capture device, an image control device, a hardwired telephone, a wireless communication access point, a local hardwired computer, and a WiFi access point.

[0052] Example 6 includes the intelligent edge convergence system of any of the Examples 1-5, further including a separable power backplane that couples power from the central power supply to the ICB of an associated edge convergence point.

[0053] Example 7 includes the intelligent edge convergence system of any of the Examples 1-6, further wherein each edge convergence point is coupled to at least one powered network device with hybrid cabling that includes optical cabling and copper cabling.

[0054] Example 8 includes the intelligent edge convergence system of any of the Examples 1-7, further wherein the edge convergence switch of each edge convergence point is a PoE switch that couples the power to each of the plurality of the powered network devices.

[0055] Example 9 includes the intelligent edge convergence system of any of the Examples 1-8, further wherein each ICB is configured to at least one of monitor and control temperature, fan speed, and fan spin efficiency to achieve a desired environmental condition within an associate edge convergence point.

[0056] Example 10 includes the intelligent edge convergence system of any of the Examples 1-9, wherein each ICB is programmed with at least one of an identification of an edge convergence point, an IP address, indoor location coordinate, incoming cable identification, unique serial identification, serial identification of each edge convergence switch in an associated edge convergence point, and each receiver/transmitter serial number in the associated edge convergence point.

[0057] Example 11 includes the intelligent edge convergence system of any of the Examples 1-10, wherein each ICB is configured to monitor at least one of temperature, humidity, carbon dioxide, moisture level within the associated unique location of the building, and air quality.

[0058] Example 12 includes the intelligent edge convergence system of any of the Examples 1-11, wherein the ICB is configured to determine operating and environmental information that includes at least one of network connectivity information, power distribution and usage information, power loss information, temperature information, humidity information, carbon dioxide information, and air-quality, the ICB further configured to communicate the determined operating and environmental information to a remote location where the operating and environmental information is automatically added to a building digital twin.

[0059] Example 13 includes a method of defining end-to-end power in a data and voltage network in a building with an intelligent edge convergence system. The method includes identifying a channel that is powering an ICB of an edge convergence point of a plurality of edge convergence points; identifying powered network devices coupled to ports of at least one edge convergence switch in the edge convergence point of the plurality edge convergence points with the ICB; and managing a routing of data and power at the edge convergence point of the plurality of edge convergence points with the ICB based on the identified channel that is powering the ICB and the identified powered network devices coupled to ports of the at least one edge convergence switch.

[0060] Example 14 includes the method of Example 13, wherein identifying the channel that is powering the ICB is done with a power test pattern generated by power sourcing equipment of the edge convergence point of the plurality of edge convergence points.

[0061] Example 15 includes the method of any of the Examples 13-14, wherein the ICB identifies powered network devices coupled to ports of the at least one edge convergence switch by receiving information directly from the at least one edge convergence switch. [0062] Example 16 includes the method of any of the Examples 13-15, further including determining at least one of power usage and power loss at each connection point in the defined end-to-end power in the data and voltage network.

[0063] Example 17 includes the method of Example 16, further including communicating the determined at least one of power usage and power loss at each connection point in the defined end-to-end power in the data and voltage network to a remote location.

[0064] Example 18 includes a method of defining an end-to-end data connectivity in a data and voltage network in a building with an intelligent edge convergence system, the method includes determining network switch information with communications from an ICB within an edge convergence point; and determining connectivity between switch ports of at least one power distribution panel switch in a main equipment room and switch ports of at least one edge convergence switch in the edge convergence point.

[0065] Example 19 includes the method of Example 18, further including using at least one of a command line interface (CLI), an application programming interface (API) or a simple network management protocol (SNMP) interface to determine connectivity between switch ports of the at least one switch in the equipment room and switch ports of the at least one edge convergence point switch.

[0066] Example 20 includes the method of any of the Examples 18-19, further including performing a TDR test to determine connectivity at switch ports of at least one convergence switch to determine presence of a powered network device and cable length information.

[0067] Example 21 includes the method of any of the Examples 18-20, wherein the switch information includes at least one of switch identification, switch make, switch model number, number of switch ports, type of switch ports, link status of switch ports, VLAN assignments, PoE usage per port, and powered network devices connected to switch ports.

[0068] Example 22 includes the method of any of the Examples 18-21, wherein the at least one edge convergence point switch is a PoE switch.

[0069] Example 23 includes the method of any of the Examples 18-22, further including communicating discovered connectivity between the switch ports of the at least one equipment room switch in the main equipment room and the switch ports of the at least one edge convergence point switch in the at least one edge convergence point to a remote location.

[0070] Although specific embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, it will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that any arrangement, which is calculated to achieve the same purpose, may be substituted for the specific embodiment shown. This application is intended to cover any adaptations or variations of the present invention. Therefore, it is manifestly intended that this invention be limited only by the claims and the equivalents thereof.

Claims

1. An intelligent edge convergence system comprising: a plurality of spaced edge convergence points, each edge convergence point located in an associated unique location within a building to provide services to the unique associated location, each edge convergence point including, an edge convergence switch coupled to a plurality of powered network devices providing services within the associated unique location; and an intelligent control board (ICB) coupled to the edge convergence switch, the ICB coupled to a central power supply, the ICB configured to manage power distribution and monitoring for the associated plurality of the powered network devices.

2. The intelligent edge convergence system of claim 1, wherein the ICB is further configured to identify each powered network device coupled to the edge convergence switch of an associated edge convergence point and manage routing and powering of each powered network device.

3. The intelligent edge convergence system of claim 2, wherein the central power supply comprises: a power transmitter; and power distribution panel coupled the power transmitter.

4. The intelligent edge convergence system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of powered network devices include at least one of an information technology device and an operational technology device.

5. The intelligent edge convergence system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of powered network devices include at least one of a light sensor, a light control, an internet of things (IOU) sensor, a temperature control, an image capture device, an image control device, a telephone, a wireless communication access point, a local hardwired computer, and a WiFi access point.

6. The intelligent edge convergence system of claim 1, further comprising: a separable power backplane coupling power from the central power supply to the ICB of an associated edge convergence point.

7. The intelligent edge convergence system of claim 1, further wherein each edge convergence point is coupled to at least one powered network device with hybrid cabling that includes optical cabling and copper cabling.

8. The intelligent edge convergence system of claim 1, further wherein the edge convergence switch of each edge convergence point is a power over Ethernet (PoE) switch that couples the power to each of the plurality of the powered network devices.

9. The intelligent edge convergence system of claim 1, further wherein each ICB is configured to at least one of monitor and control temperature, fan speed, and fan spin efficiency to achieve a desired environmental condition within an associate edge convergence point.

10. The intelligent edge convergence system of claim 1, wherein each ICB is programmed with at least one of an identification of an edge convergence point, an IP address, indoor location coordinate, incoming cable identification, unique serial identification, serial identification of each edge convergence switch in an associated edge convergence point, and each receiver/transmitter serial number in the associated edge convergence point.

11. The intelligent edge convergence system of claim 1, wherein each ICB is configured to monitor at least one of temperature, humidity, carbon dioxide, moisture level within the associated unique location of the building, and air-quality.

12. The intelligent edge convergence system of claim 1, wherein the ICB is configured to determine operating and environmental information that includes at least one of network connectivity information, power distribution and usage information, power loss information, temperature information, humidity information, carbon dioxide information and, air-quality information, the ICB further configured to communicate the determined operating and environmental information to a remote location where the operating and environmental information is automatically added to a building digital twin.

13. A method of defining end-to-end power in a data and voltage network in a building with an intelligent edge convergence system, the method comprising: identifying a channel that is powering an intelligent control board (ICB) of an edge convergence point of a plurality of edge convergence points; identifying powered network devices coupled to ports of at least one edge convergence switch in the edge convergence point of the plurality edge convergence points with the ICB; and managing a routing of data and power at the edge convergence point of the plurality of edge convergence points with the ICB based on the identified channel that is powering the ICB and the identified powered network devices coupled to ports of the at least one edge convergence switch.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein identifying the channel that is powering the ICB is done with a power test pattern generated by power sourcing equipment of the edge convergence point of the plurality of edge convergence points.

15. The method of claim 13, wherein the ICB identifies powered network devices coupled to ports of the at least one edge convergence switch by receiving information directly from the at least one edge convergence switch.

16. The method of claim 13, further comprising: determining at least one of power usage and power loss at each connection point in the defined end-to-end power in the data and voltage network.

17. The method of claim 16, further comprising; communicating the determined at least one of power usage and power loss at each connection point in the defined end-to-end power in the data and voltage network to a remote location.

18. A method of defining an end-to-end data connectivity in a data and voltage network in a building with an intelligent edge convergence system, the method comprising: determining network switch information with communications from an intelligent control board (ICB) within an edge convergence point; and determining connectivity between switch ports of at least one switch in a main equipment room and switch ports of at least one edge convergence switch in the edge convergence point.

19. The method of claim 18, further comprising: using at least one of a command line interface (CLI), an application programming interface (API) or a simple network management protocol (SNMP) interface to determine connectivity between switch ports of the at least one switch in the equipment room and switch ports of the at least one edge convergence point switch.

20. The method of claim 18, further comprising: performing a time domain reflectometer (TDR) test to determine connectivity at switch ports of at least one convergence switch to determine cable length information.

21. The method of claim 18, wherein the switch information includes at least one of switch identification, switch make, switch model number, number of switch ports, type of switch ports, link status of switch ports, virtual local area network (VLAN) assignments, power over ethernet (PoE) usage per port, and powered network devices connected to switch ports.

22. The method of claim 18, wherein the at least one edge convergence point switch is a power over Ethernet (PoE) switch.

23. The method of claim 18, further comprising: communicating discovered connectivity between the switch ports of the at least one equipment room switch in the main equipment room and the switch ports of the at least one edge convergence point switch in the at least one edge convergence point to a remote location.