A tensile and creep-resistant overhead optical-electric composite cable

By installing aluminum-clad steel pipes and aluminum alloy wires to protect the optical cable on the outside and equipping it with a detection device, the problems of aerial optical cables being susceptible to environmental influences and difficult fault location are solved, achieving tensile and creep resistance and rapid fault detection.

CN119381068BActive Publication Date: 2025-10-31GUANGZHOU CABLE FACTORY CO LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202411461740.5
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Patents(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2024-10-18
Publication Date
2025-10-31
Estimated Expiration
2044-10-18

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Aerial optical cables are susceptible to creep due to environmental moisture, and poor compatibility between optical and electrical cables makes fault location difficult.

Method used

The optical cable is protected by aluminum-clad steel pipe and aluminum alloy wire, and a detection device, including a light source module, a photodetector and a time base control module, is used to detect optical cable fault points.

Benefits of technology

It improves the mechanical strength and creep resistance of optical cables, ensures signal transmission quality, and enables rapid fault location, facilitating maintenance.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

This invention discloses a tensile and creep-resistant overhead optical-electric composite cable, belonging to the field of communication technology. It includes a central optical cable capable of transmitting information, a protective device on the outside of the optical cable, and detection devices connected to the optical cable at intervals. The protective device, from the inner layer to the outer layer, comprises an aluminum-clad steel tube, an aluminum-clad steel wire, and an aluminum alloy wire. The aluminum-clad steel tube wraps around the outside of the optical cable. The detection devices include a light source module, a photodetector, a time base control module, and a processing module. The detection devices can detect fault points in the optical cable. Through this invention, the protective device has strong tensile strength and torsional resistance, capable of resisting the tensile and bending stresses experienced by the internal optical cable during use and transportation. It can improve the overall mechanical strength of the optical cable and reduce creep deformation. The detection devices can detect fault points in the optical cable, ensuring that the optical cable does not experience tensile or creeping during use, and can quickly detect fault points.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an overhead optical-electric composite cable that is resistant to tension and creep, belonging to the field of communication technology. Background Technology

[0002] In the field of communication technology, optical fiber communication has advantages such as high speed and good transmission quality. Its applications are becoming increasingly widespread, and human information transmission is becoming increasingly reliant on optical fibers. Compared to buried optical fibers, overhead optical fibers do not require complex excavation work, resulting in lower costs. They can also be installed using utility poles, shortening the construction period and accelerating construction. Furthermore, because they do not contain metal conductors, overhead optical fibers are less susceptible to electromagnetic interference, ensuring the purity of signal transmission.

[0003] Overhead cables are also used in the field of communication technology because they do not require ground construction during installation, are easy to observe during maintenance, and have good heat dissipation during use, thus they are widely used in the communication field. Overhead optical cables can be laid using existing overhead power poles.

[0004] Currently, during the use of aerial optical cables, because they are installed outdoors, they are easily affected by rain, snow, wind, and frost. Rainwater, moisture, or other liquids can enter the cable, affecting its performance and causing signal attenuation and other signal quality problems. Under prolonged use, the aerial optical cable itself is prone to creep. When aerial optical cables are installed on existing power poles, the excessive gap between the original power lines and the optical cable can affect the performance of both the original power lines and the newly installed optical cable, interfering with signal transmission. In the event of an accident involving an aerial optical cable, it is difficult to determine the fault and its location. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide an overhead optical-electric composite cable that is resistant to tension and creep, which solves the problems of overhead optical cables being greatly affected by moisture in the environment, being prone to creep, having poor fit between overhead optical cables and electrical cables, and having difficulty in identifying faults.

[0006] The technical problem to be solved by this invention is achieved by the following technical solution: a tensile and creep-resistant overhead optical-electric composite cable, comprising...

[0007] An optical fiber cable is installed at the center, and this optical fiber cable is capable of transmitting information.

[0008] A protective device installed on the outside of the optical cable, and a detection device connected to the optical cable at intervals;

[0009] The protective device includes an aluminum-clad steel tube, an aluminum-clad steel wire, and an aluminum alloy wire from the inner layer to the outer layer. The aluminum-clad steel tube is wrapped around the outside of the optical cable. There are multiple aluminum-clad steel wires and multiple aluminum alloy wires.

[0010] The detection device includes a light source module, a photodetector, a time base control module, and a processing module. The time base control module can control the light source module to emit pulse signals, the photodetector can receive the pulse signals and transmit them to the processing module, and the processing module can configure the time base control module to process the signals received by the photodetector. The detection device can detect the fault points of the optical cable.

[0011] The detection device is capable of detecting fault points in the optical cable.

[0012] Preferably, the optical cable includes a sheath on the outside, and grease is disposed between the optical cable and the sheath, the grease and the sheath being able to protect the optical cable from moisture.

[0013] Preferably, the aluminum-clad steel pipe is wrapped around the outside of the sheath, and the sheath comprises polyethylene.

[0014] Preferably, the aluminum-clad steel wire and the aluminum alloy wire are conductive.

[0015] Preferably, the aluminum-clad steel tube protects the optical cable from tension and compression; the aluminum-clad steel wire bears the tensile strength of the overhead optical-electric composite cable; and the aluminum alloy wire bears the creep resistance of the overhead optical-electric composite cable.

[0016] Preferably, both the aluminum-clad steel wire and the aluminum alloy wire are stranded together on the outside of the aluminum-clad steel tube.

[0017] Preferably, the detection device is installed every 3-6 km along the optical cable.

[0018] Preferably, the light source module includes a laser diode and a light-emitting diode.

[0019] The beneficial effects of this invention are:

[0020] (1) According to this invention, the optical cable includes a sheath on the outside, grease between the optical cable and the sheath, and an aluminum-clad steel tube wrapping the optical cable. The grease, as a waterproof material, fills the space inside and around the optical cable to prevent moisture from entering. The grease also has good adhesion, sealing, and moisture-proof properties, maintaining stability over long-term use. The sheath, placed between the optical cable and the aluminum-clad steel tube, protects the optical cable structure from external factors such as mechanical wear, chemical corrosion, or UV aging, further enhancing waterproof performance. Combined with the grease, it ensures that moisture does not penetrate the core of the optical cable. The aluminum-clad steel tube provides mechanical protection for the optical cable, effectively preventing physical damage from the external environment, such as stretching, bending, or compression. Furthermore, the aluminum-clad steel tube has a certain degree of corrosion resistance, protecting the optical cable from external environmental damage.

[0021] (2) Through this invention, aluminum-clad steel wire and aluminum alloy wire are arranged on the outside of the optical cable. Both the aluminum-clad steel wire and the aluminum alloy wire are conductive. The aluminum-clad steel wire is stranded on the outside of the optical cable, and the aluminum alloy wire is stranded on the outside of the aluminum-clad steel wire. The aluminum-clad steel wire has strong tensile strength and torsional resistance, which can resist the tensile and bending stresses experienced by the internal optical cable during use and transportation, thereby improving the overall mechanical strength of the optical cable. Compared with ordinary cables, the aluminum alloy wire is lighter, reducing the overall weight of the optical cable and facilitating laying and maintenance. At the same time, some elements are added during the manufacturing process of the aluminum alloy wire, which can improve the strength and hardness of the aluminum matrix. The alloying elements limit the slippage of grain boundaries by forming fine metallic phases, thereby reducing the occurrence of creep deformation. The aluminum-clad steel wire and aluminum alloy wire are conductive, improving space utilization efficiency and energy transmission efficiency.

[0022] (3) Through this invention, a detection device is set at certain intervals. The detection device includes a light source module, a photodetector, a time base control module, and a processing module. The detection device can detect the breakpoints, losses, and faults of the optical cable, ensuring that faults are detected in a timely manner during the installation and use of the optical cable, and can accurately locate the fault point, which is convenient for staff to install, use, and repair. Attached Figure Description

[0023] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the working process of the detection device of the present invention.

[0026] In the diagram: 11-Optical cable, 12-Sheath, 13-Aluminum-clad steel pipe, 2-Aluminum-clad steel wire, 3-Aluminum alloy wire, 4-Detection device, 41-Processing module, 42-Time base control module, 43-Light source module, 44-Photodetector. Detailed Implementation

[0027] To facilitate a clear understanding of the technical means, creative features, objectives, and effects of this invention, the invention will be further described below in conjunction with specific embodiments.

[0028] Example 1

[0029] Aerial optical cables are optical cables that are suspended from utility poles. The laying method for aerial optical cables can utilize existing overhead open-line poles. They are mostly used for long-distance Class II or lower lines, and are suitable for dedicated optical cable lines or certain special local sections. Currently, optical cables are easily damaged by tension during installation, and are prone to creep and breakage over long-term use.

[0030] like Figures 1-2 As shown, an overhead optical-electric composite cable with tensile and creep resistance includes an optical cable 11 disposed at the center, which is capable of transmitting information.

[0031] A protective device is installed on the outside of the optical cable 11. The optical cable 11 is installed in an overhead manner. Detection devices 4 are installed on the optical cable 11 at intervals. The protective device can protect the optical cable 11, and the detection device 4 can detect the faults of the optical cable.

[0032] In this embodiment, the protection device includes an aluminum-clad steel pipe 13, an aluminum-clad steel wire 2, and an aluminum alloy wire 3. The aluminum-clad steel pipe 13 is arranged on the outside of the optical cable 11 in a wrapping manner. There are multiple aluminum-clad steel wires 2 and multiple aluminum alloy wires 3.

[0033] The detection device 4 is located at one end of the optical cable 11. The detection device 4 includes a light source module 43, a photodetector 44, a time base control module 42, and a processing module 41. The time base control module 42 can control the light source module 42 to release pulse signals, and the photodetector 44 can receive the pulse signals and transmit them to the processing module 41. The detection device 4 can detect the fault points of the optical cable 11.

[0034] The optical cable 11 is composed of multiple optical fiber cores and is responsible for transmitting optical signals. The optical fiber cores are generally made of quartz glass or plastic. In this embodiment, the optical cable 11 is composed of multiple optical fiber cores made of quartz glass.

[0035] A grease is applied to the surface of the optical cable 11. Grease is widely used in the manufacturing and maintenance of optical cables. The main types of optical cable grease include non-drip grease, gel-type grease, and low-temperature grease. The appropriate type is selected based on the actual application. In this embodiment, a non-drip grease is used. The grease fills the space inside and around the optical cable to prevent moisture from entering and maintain stability during long-term use. A sheath 12, composed of polyethylene, is provided on the outside of the optical cable. The sheath 12 protects the optical cable structure from external factors such as mechanical wear, chemical corrosion, or UV aging. It also further enhances waterproof performance, working in conjunction with the grease to ensure that moisture does not penetrate the core of the optical cable 11.

[0036] Reference Figure 1 The aluminum-clad steel tube 13 is wrapped around the outside of the sheath 12. The aluminum-clad steel tube provides mechanical protection for the optical cable and can effectively prevent physical damage to the optical cable caused by the external environment, such as stretching, bending or squeezing. In addition, the aluminum-clad steel tube also has a certain anti-corrosion ability, protecting the optical cable from external environmental damage.

[0037] An aluminum-clad steel wire 2 is installed on the outside of the optical cable 11. In this embodiment, the aluminum-clad steel wire 2 includes an inner steel core and an outer aluminum cladding layer. The inner steel core of the aluminum-clad steel wire 2 is a single piece, and the outer surface of the steel core is covered with an outer aluminum cladding layer. The steel core provides mechanical strength and tensile strength, increasing the overall tensile strength of the optical cable, enabling it to withstand external tension and stress when suspended in the air. The steel core is usually made of high-strength carbon steel or galvanized steel to provide the necessary strength and corrosion resistance. The aluminum-clad steel wire 2 is conductive. The outermost layer of the aluminum-clad steel wire 2 is an aluminum layer, which is treated to obtain an alumina layer with good insulation properties, preventing the surface of the aluminum-clad steel wire 2 from becoming charged and avoiding electric shock accidents after accidental contact with the aluminum-clad steel wire 2.

[0038] An aluminum alloy wire 3 is installed on the outside of the aluminum-clad steel wire 2. The aluminum alloy wire 3 is conductive and provides overall creep resistance for the optical fiber composite cable. During use, the optical cable 11, aluminum-clad steel tube 13, and aluminum-clad steel wire 2 are continuously subjected to gravity due to their overhead installation, making them prone to creep and structural deformation, which affects the transmission performance of the optical cable 11. The aluminum alloy wire 3, installed on the outside of the aluminum-clad steel wire 2, incorporates certain elements during manufacturing to form an aluminum alloy. This increases the strength and hardness of the aluminum matrix. The alloying elements, by forming fine metallic phases, restrict grain boundary sliding, thereby reducing creep deformation. Therefore, the aluminum alloy wire 3, stranded on the outside of the aluminum-clad steel wire 2, provides support for the internal optical cable 11, aluminum-clad steel tube 13, and aluminum-clad steel wire 2, preventing overall creep in the optical fiber composite cable.

[0039] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 2 There are multiple aluminum-clad steel wires 2 and aluminum alloy wires 3, all of which are stranded on the outside of the aluminum-clad steel pipe 13. In this embodiment, there are 10 aluminum-clad steel wires 2 and 15 aluminum alloy wires 3, which are stranded in a right-hand direction.

[0040] In another embodiment, the aluminum-clad steel wire 2 and the aluminum alloy wire 3 are twisted in a left-hand direction.

[0041] In the event of an accident in an overhead optical cable, it is necessary to quickly determine the location of the accident. Therefore, detection devices 4 are installed at intervals along the optical cable 11.

[0042] Reference Figure 3The detection device 4 includes a processing module 41, a time base control module 42, a light source module 43, and a photodetector 44. The processing module 41 controls the time base control module 42 and can detect and identify signals received by the photodetector 44. The time base control module 42 records the time difference between the emission of a light pulse from the light source and the return of the light signal through the processing module and controls the light source module 43 to emit light pulse signals. The light source module 43 emits light pulse signals, and the photodetector 44 detects the light pulse signals emitted by the light source module 43.

[0043] The light source module 43 includes a laser diode and a light-emitting diode. In this embodiment, the light source module 43 uses a laser diode.

[0044] The time base control module 42 includes a timing circuit. The time base control module 42 is connected to the light source module 43. The processing module 41 can set the time base control module 42 to control the light source module 43 to emit pulses. At the same time, the time base control module 42 records the time difference from the emission of the light source pulse to the return of the light signal.

[0045] The photodetector 44 includes a photodiode. The photodetector 44 can convert the reflected light signal into an electrical signal and transmit the electrical signal to the processing module 41.

[0046] The processing module 41 can process the time difference between the light source emission pulse and the return of the optical signal recorded by the time base control module 42 and the electrical signal transmitted by the photodetector 44. Based on this information, it can generate a graph and determine the location of the optical cable fault through the graph.

[0047] The optical cable 11 is equipped with an optical fiber interface that extends from the inside to the outside of the aluminum alloy wire 3, and is protected by a protective cover. The light source module 43 can connect to the optical fiber interface, allowing the detection device 4 to be connected to the optical cable 11 for detection. When no fault occurs, the detection device 4 is not connected to the optical cable 11 to prevent it from affecting the information transmission of the optical cable 11.

[0048] A detection device 4 is installed on the optical cable 11 at intervals of 3-6 km. In this embodiment, a detection device 4 is installed at intervals of 5 km.

[0049] In another embodiment, there are only 1-2 detection devices 4; fiber optic interfaces are provided on the optical cable 11 every 5km.

[0050] The foregoing has shown and described the basic principles, main features, and advantages of the present invention. Those skilled in the art should understand that the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and various changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, all of which fall within the scope of protection claimed by the present invention. The scope of protection of the present invention is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A tensile and creep-resistant overhead optical-electric composite cable, comprising: An optical fiber cable is installed at the center, and this optical fiber cable is capable of transmitting information. Its features are: A protective device installed on the outside of the optical cable, and a detection device connected to the optical cable at intervals; The protective device includes an aluminum-clad steel tube, an aluminum-clad steel wire, and an aluminum alloy wire from the inner layer to the outer layer. The aluminum-clad steel tube is wrapped around the outside of the optical cable. There are multiple aluminum-clad steel wires and multiple aluminum alloy wires. The detection device includes a light source module, a photodetector, a time base control module, and a processing module. The time base control module can control the light source module to emit pulse signals and records the time difference from the emission of the light pulse to the return of the light signal. The photodetector can receive the pulse signal and transmit it to the processing module. The photodetector includes a photodiode and can convert the reflected light signal into an electrical signal and transmit the electrical signal to the processing module. The processing module can configure the time base control module and process the time difference from the emission of the light pulse to the return of the light signal recorded by the time base control module and the electrical signal transmitted by the photodetector. The detection device can detect the fault point of the optical cable.

2. The tensile and creep-resistant overhead optical-electric composite cable according to claim 1, characterized in that: The optical cable includes a sheath on the outside, and grease is provided between the optical cable and the sheath. The grease and the sheath can protect the optical cable from moisture.

3. The tensile and creep-resistant overhead optical-electric composite cable according to claim 2, characterized in that: The aluminum-clad steel pipe is wrapped around the outside of the sheath.

4. The tensile and creep-resistant overhead optical-electric composite cable according to claim 1, characterized in that: The aluminum-clad steel wire and the aluminum alloy wire are conductive.

5. The tensile and creep-resistant overhead optical-electric composite cable according to claim 1, characterized in that: The aluminum-clad steel tube protects the optical cable from tension and compression; the aluminum-clad steel wire bears the tensile strength of the overhead optical-electric composite cable; and the aluminum alloy wire bears the creep resistance of the overhead optical-electric composite cable.

6. The tensile and creep-resistant overhead optical-electric composite cable according to any one of claims 4-5, characterized in that: Both the aluminum-clad steel wire and the aluminum alloy wire are stranded and arranged on the outside of the aluminum-clad steel tube.

7. The tensile and creep-resistant overhead optical-electric composite cable according to claim 1, characterized in that: The detection device is installed every 3-6 km along the optical cable.

8. The tensile and creep-resistant overhead optical-electric composite cable according to claim 1, characterized in that: The light source module includes a laser diode and a light-emitting diode.

Citation Information

Patent Citations

  • Optical cable with multiple transmission functions

    CN114220600A

  • Optical fiber composite overhead ground wire optical cable

    CN216772070U