Sensor Pod

Abstract

A sensor pod for attaching a sensor to a submarine cable comprises a mounting node configured to provide a connection between the sensor and the submarine cable, and a sensor module configured for connection with at least one sensor, wherein the mounting node is connected to the sensor module via at least one fiber optic cable, and the sensor pod is positioned to be connected in series with the submarine cable.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a sensor pod for a submarine communication cable.

Background Art

[0002] Submarine sensors are used to monitor the ocean. These sensors acquire extensive real-time data to understand and manage environmental issues and hazards such as climate change and tsunamis.

[0003] Appropriate sensors are already deployed at ocean research observatories with dedicated cables, and the next step is to integrate these sensors into communication cables to create a SMART cable system.

[0004] A SMART (Science Monitoring And Reliable Telecommunications) cable integrates sensors for ocean monitoring into a submarine communication cable, enabling SMART sensors to piggyback on the power and communication infrastructure already present in millions of kilometers of submarine optical fiber cables.

[0005] Generally, a submarine optical fiber communication system includes a cable (having an appropriate protective layer depending on water depth, seabed conditions, and potential risks), a pressure housing containing fiber amplifiers (known as repeaters) spaced apart from each other along the length of the cable, power supply equipment for supplying power to the repeaters via conductors within the cable, and terminal station equipment for transmitting and receiving signals on the optical fiber strands within the cable. Some submarine communication systems include a branch unit (BU) that provides connections to locations along the main cable route.

[0006] The current plan for SMART cables involves integrating appropriate sensors with repeaters along the length of the communication cable, called SMART repeaters. These sensors must be isolated from the high voltages present within the repeaters and must be fail-safe so that the normal operation of the repeaters is not disrupted or affected by sensor failures. [Overview of the Initiative]

[0007] According to one aspect of the present invention, a sensor pod for attaching a sensor to a submarine cable is provided. The sensor pod comprises a mounting node configured to provide a connection between the sensor and the submarine cable, and a sensor module configured for connection with at least one sensor. The mounting node is connected to the sensor module via at least one fiber optic cable, and the sensor pod is positioned to be connected in series with the submarine cable.

[0008] Preferably, the mounting node is connected to the sensor module via at least one pair of optical fibers and a power connection.

[0009] Advantageously, the sensor pod provides a universal concept that allows sensors to be integrated with submarine cables regardless of the cable structure (e.g., mounted or lightweight). Furthermore, since the sensor pod is independent of the repeater, it is not part of the repeater. The sensor pod can be used with both repeater-equipped and non-repeater-equipped cable systems. The sensor pod is independent of the repeater and does not require a direct interface with the repeater. Having a sensor pod leads to a less complex and cheaper final product. Furthermore, by keeping the sensor separate from the repeater, the sensor does not interfere with or disrupt the normal operation of the repeater. Therefore, any failure occurring within the sensor will not affect the operation of the repeater. Having a sensor pod that does not need to interface with the repeater also avoids the need to isolate the sensor from the high voltage present within the repeater.

[0010] A sensor pod can be thought of as a SMART (Scientific Monitoring and Reliable Communications) sensor that can transmit a continuous stream of information about seafloor conditions (e.g., ocean pressure, temperature, acceleration, etc., but not limited to these) to a specific observation station for analysis. By integrating the sensor pod with existing submarine cables, it enables scientific monitoring of climate change forces propagating across the vast ocean. This allows for the detection of early signs of disasters (e.g., tsunamis and earthquakes, but not limited to these). While sensor pods can be monitored in real time, in some cases, they can perform monitoring on demand, for example, according to the needs or requirements of a third party. In addition to monitoring seafloor conditions, sensor pods can be used for several other applications, including (but not limited to) cable monitoring, protection, and maritime defense applications.

[0011] SensorPod provides retrofit solutions compatible with current and existing cabling systems. Because all existing infrastructure can be used, retrofit solutions are a relatively low-cost solution for providing SMART cabling systems. Retrofit solutions can be offered as part of a planned intervention for a new cabling system or as a repair for an existing cabling system.

[0012] Sensor pods can extend existing submarine cable universal joint technology by providing low-cost auxiliary connectivity to new markets. Sensor pods can be used in many industries, including, but not limited to, defense, submarine science, and power cable monitoring, enabling these industries to establish new partnerships with existing and new cable system owners.

[0013] Preferably, the sensor module includes a hermetically sealed chamber. The hermetically sealed chamber may be located within the housing of the sensor module. The hermetically sealed chamber provides a controlled environment for housing the components.

[0014] A hermetically sealed chamber may contain electronics configured to provide electrical communication between a sensor and a sensor module. In some examples, the hermetically sealed chamber may contain optoelectronics configured to provide optical-electrical communication between the sensor and the sensor module and / or between the sensor module and a land-based computing device. This can ensure that the electronics are not affected by submarine environmental conditions that differ from land-based conditions, such as changes in temperature and pressure.

[0015] In some cases, at least one sensor may be placed inside a hermetically sealed chamber. This provides an environmentally safe environment in which the sensor should be housed so that its performance is not affected by seabed conditions.

[0016] In some examples, at least one sensor may be located outside the sensor module. This may allow the sensor to accurately capture data about seafloor climatic conditions, such as temperature and pressure data.

[0017] To provide a communication link between the sensor and the sensor module, a hermetically sealed chamber and An electronic feed may be placed between the sensor and the external sensor. To provide a communication link between the sensor and the sensor module, an optical feed may be placed between the hermetically sealed chamber and the external sensor, either in addition to or instead of the electronic feed. This allows the main electrical and / or optical components to remain housed within the hermetically sealed chamber rather than being exposed to the submarine environment, which could affect their performance.

[0018] Preferably, at least one optical fiber cable, preferably at least one optical fiber pair and a power connection, are housed within a protective sleeve. The protective sleeve can protect the optical fiber cable, preferably the optical fiber pair and the power connection, and prevent them from being damaged.

[0019] References to at least one fiber optic cable (or optical fiber cable) preferably include references to at least one fiber optic pair and power connections.

[0020] In some examples, at least one optical fiber cable, and preferably an optical fiber pair and power connection, is housed within a helical slot of a protective sleeve. The helical slot may extend along the length of the protective sleeve. The helical slot may be located within the outer surface of the protective sleeve. In other words, the helical slot can be considered embedded in the protective sleeve. Similarly, at least one optical fiber cable, and preferably an optical fiber pair and power connection, can be considered embedded in the outer surface of the protective sleeve. This configuration provides the protective sleeve with abrasion and fray protection for the optical fiber cable, and preferably an optical fiber pair and power connection.

[0021] Preferably, at least one optical fiber cable, and preferably an optical fiber pair and power connection, takes the form of a carrier tube housing at least one optical fiber pair. The carrier tube may be housed within a protective sleeve. The protective sleeve can protect the carrier tube containing the optical fiber pair and prevent it from being damaged. The carrier tube may be housed within a spiral slot of the protective sleeve. The carrier tube may be considered to be embedded in the outer surface of the protective sleeve. This configuration provides the carrier tube with abrasion and shatter protection by the protective sleeve.

[0022] The carrier tube can be made of a conductive material. The carrier tube can be a metal carrier tube. The carrier tube can function as a conductor. The carrier tube can provide a power connection between the mounting node and the sensor module. This can reduce the need to penetrate the main submarine cable and reroute the electrical cable towards the sensor module, helping to maintain the structural integrity of the main submarine cable.

[0023] In some examples, the protective sleeve may be a modular protective sleeve. A modular protective sleeve may comprise one or more individual sleeve sections configured to be attached to one another to form a protective sleeve. This may allow for the configuration of a variable-length protective sleeve, which allows for varying the distance between the mounting node and the sensor module.

[0024] One or more sensors may be configured to be mounted on the outer surface of a protective sleeve. This can ensure that heat from the electronics within the sensor module does not affect the sensor, for example, the sensor reading or the sensor's performance.

[0025] Preferably, the sensor module may be configured to be attached to the outer surface of the submarine cable. This design avoids the need to further interrupt the submarine cable. This allows the cable to pass through the sensor module, which helps maintain the structural integrity of the main submarine cable.

[0026] The sensor module can be attached to a submarine cable via at least one clamping component. The clamping component may include at least one radially acting fastener, such as a screw. The clamping component may include a clamping sleeve. The clamping component may comprise at least one fastener and a clamping sleeve, the clamping sleeve may be positioned between the submarine cable and the sensor module, and furthermore, at least one fastener may be positioned to apply a radially acting clamping force to the submarine cable via the clamping sleeve. The clamping mechanism provides a simple and convenient method for attaching the sensor module to a submarine cable.

[0027] The clamp sleeve may include a C-shaped cross-section. In this way, the clamp sleeve may comprise a slit extending over the entire length of the clamp sleeve. The slit may enable the clamp sleeve to be inserted around and attached to the subsea cable.

[0028] The clamp component may comprise a plurality of fixtures arranged along at least a portion of the length of the sensor module. The plurality of fixtures may be arranged to apply a clamping force to the clamp sleeve such that the width of the slit within the clamp sleeve is reduced. In this way, the clamping force applied by the fixtures acts to close the slit within the clamp sleeve such that the clamp sleeve has a substantially O-shaped cross-section.

[0029] In some configurations, a portion of a heat-shrinkable material may be disposed between the clamp sleeve and the subsea cable. The heat-shrinkable material may be configured to be applied using heat-shrink technology.

[0030] A protective material may at least partially encapsulate at least one end of the sensor module.The protective material may be a potting material. The protective material may encapsulate both ends of the sensor module.

[0031] At least one clamp component may be within the housing of the sensor module. In this case, at least one clamp component may be considered part of the housing. At least one clamp component may be integral with the housing.

[0032] Alternatively, at least one clamp component may be external to the housing of the sensor module. Thus, at least one clamp component may be considered separate from the housing. In this case, at least one clamp component may be attached to the housing. This allows for a much larger housing to be provided and provides more space within the sensor module for components.

[0033] The sensor pod may be positioned to be connected in series with the submarine communication cable.

[0034] In some variations, the sensor pod may be positioned to connect in series with a non-intermediate submarine cable.

[0035] In other developmental configurations, the sensor pod may be positioned to be connected in series with a submarine cable with a relay.

[0036] A method for attaching a sensor to a submarine cable, comprising: removing at least one outer layer of the submarine cable from a portion of the submarine cable; attaching a sensor module to the outer surface of the submarine cable using at least one clamping component; and attaching the sensor module to the sensor module A method may be provided that includes connecting to a file.

[0037] Removing at least one outer layer may include removing at least one outer layer to expose the outer layer. Removal may include removing at least one outer layer containing polypropylene yarn.

[0038] This method may include applying a layer of heat-shrinkable material to at least a portion of the exposed exterior.

[0039] The method may include inserting at least one clamp component onto a heat-shrinkable material. A sensor module may be inserted onto at least one clamp component. At least one clamp component may be secured to a submarine cable, preferably secured to the heat-shrinkable material using one or more fasteners. At least one clamp component may be secured to a submarine cable by applying a radial clamping force to at least one clamp component, and at least one clamp component is preferably a clamp sleeve.

[0040] This method may include encapsulating at least one end of the sensor module within a protective material. In some examples, both ends of the sensor module may be encapsulated.

[0041] A method for attaching a sensor to a submarine cable using a sensor pod is provided, comprising connecting the sensor pod to the submarine cable using an attachment node, connecting a sensor module having at least one sensor, and connecting the attachment node to the sensor module via at least one fiber optic cable, wherein the sensor pod is connected in series with the submarine cable, and the method further comprises attaching the sensor module to the outer surface of the submarine cable via at least one clamping component.

[0042] Next, the present invention will be described merely as an example with reference to the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0043] [Figure 1] This is a diagram illustrating an exemplary sensor pod. [Figure 2] This is a cross-sectional view of a part of the sensor pod. [Figure 3] This is a diagram illustrating an exemplary sensor pod. [Figure 4] This is a diagram illustrating an example sensor module. [Figure 5A] This is a cross-sectional view of the sensor module. [Figure 5B] This is a cross-sectional view of a part of the sensor module. [Figure 6] This is a diagram illustrating an example sensor module. [Figure 7] This diagram shows a sensor pod as part of a cable-free system. [Figure 8] This diagram shows a sensor pod as part of a cable system with relays. [Figure 9] This figure shows another example of a sensor module. [Figure 9A] This is a cross-sectional view of the sensor pod. [Figure 9B] This is a cross-sectional view of the sensor pod. [Figure 9C] This is a cross-sectional view of the sensor pod. [Figure 10] This is a diagram showing a portion of an undersea cable. [Figure 11] This is a diagram showing a portion of an undersea cable. [Figure 12] This is a diagram showing a portion of an undersea cable. [Figure 13] This is a diagram showing some of the components of a submarine cable and clamp. [Figure 14] This is a diagram showing some of the components of a submarine cable and clamp. [Figure 15] This diagram shows a sensor module attached to a section of an undersea cable. [Figure 16] This diagram shows a sensor module attached to a section of an undersea cable. [Figure 17] This diagram shows a sensor module attached to a section of an undersea cable. [Figure 18] This diagram shows a sensor module attached to a section of an undersea cable. [Figure 19] This diagram shows a sensor module attached to a section of an undersea cable. [Figure 20] This diagram shows a sensor module attached to a section of an undersea cable. [Figure 21a] This is a diagram showing a portion of an undersea cable. [Figure 21b] This is a diagram showing a portion of an undersea cable. [Figure 21c] This is a diagram showing a portion of an undersea cable. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0044] The present invention generally relates to a sensor pod for attaching a sensor to a submarine cable. An exemplary sensor pod 2 is shown in Figure 1. The sensor pod comprises a mounting node 4 configured to provide a connection between a sensor and a submarine cable 6, and a sensor module 8 configured for connection with at least one sensor. The mounting node 4 is connected to the sensor module 8 via at least one fiber optic cable 10. The fiber optic cable is preferably a fiber optic pair and power connection 10 (also called an optical-electrical connection). The sensor pod 2 is configured to be positioned in series with the submarine cable, as shown in Figure 1. Since the sensor pod 2 is positioned in series with the submarine cable, it can be considered that the sensor pod 2 is connected in series with the submarine cable.

[0045] Universal joints are a known technique used to connect different types of submarine optical communication cables with common construction equipment sets and methods.

[0046] The mounting node 4 is a modified version of a universal joint and may be called a node-universal joint (node ​​UJ) 4. The node-universal joint has two ends, which may be called a first end 12 and a second end 14. The first end 12 provides a connection between the sensor pod 2 and the submarine cable 6 using standard universal joint technology and will not be described further. The second end 14 provides a connection between the mounting node 4 of the sensor pod 2 and the sensor module 8. Furthermore, the second end 14 also provides a connection between the sensor pod 2 and the submarine cable 6. The first end 12 and the second end 14 are bidirectional, and both the first end 12 and the second end 14 provide a direct connection to the submarine cable 6. The interface between the mounting node 4 and the sensor module 8 occurs at the second end 14 via an isolated optoelectric connection 10, which will be described in more detail later.

[0047] Generally, the power and optical connections between the submarine cable 6 and the sensor module 8 are provided by appropriate cable isolation from the main cable structure within the submarine cable, which is provided by the output end 14 of the node universal joint 4. Specifically, the isolation involves separating the optical fiber pair and power conductor from the submarine cable 6, which are then connected to the sensor module 8.

[0048] Cable isolation is clearly shown in Figure 2. An insulated, airtight penetration is provided within the second end 14 of the node universal joint 4, which provides a passage for routing the optical fiber pair and power conductor away from the main submarine cable 6 toward the sensor module 8. The penetration is achieved using a penetrator 16, which is sealed within the structure of the second end 14 of the node universal joint 4.

[0049] The optical fiber pair and power conductor form an optical-electrical connection 10 between the node universal joint 4 and the sensor module 8. The optical-electrical connection 10 takes the form of a carrier tube containing at least one optical fiber pair. The carrier tube is made of metal so that the carrier tube supporting the optical fiber pair functions as a conductor. Therefore, the metal carrier tube is a substitute for the electrical cable in the main cable 6, which avoids the need to penetrate the main cable structure and bypass the power supply to the sensor module 8. The optoelectric connection 10 in the form of a carrier tube has a dual function in that it provides a power supply path between the isolated main power conductor and the sensor module 8, as well as providing hydrostatic protection for the isolated optical fiber connected to the sensor module 8.

[0050] Since the carrier tube functions as a power conductor and supplies power to the sensor module 8, the carrier tube is electrically insulated by applying an external polyethylene (PE) sheath to the outer surface of the carrier tube. The electrical insulation is integrated with the main insulation in the node universal joint 4 via the PE on the molded part.

[0051] The insulated carrier tube is routed through the cable sheathing fixing component of the node universal joint 4, allowing the carrier tube to exit into the elastic bending limiter 18 of the node universal joint 4 and then be routed to the sensor module 8.

[0052] The main submarine cable 6, which does not form part of the separation, passes through a node universal joint 4 from the first end 12 to the second end 14, similar to how it would be used with a standard universal joint. This can be seen in Figures 1 and 2.

[0053] As schematically shown in Figure 1 and in more detail in Figure 2, the optical-electrical connection 10 is routed outside the main submarine cable 6. In particular, as shown in Figure 3, the optical-electrical connection 10 is routed within a helical slot 20 in a protective sleeve 22 surrounding the submarine cable 6. The helical slot 20 in the protective sleeve 22 provides the optical-electrical connection 10 with abrasion and fray resistance.

[0054] In some cases, the protective sleeve 22, which may be an elastic protective sleeve 22, is coupled to the submarine cable 6, for example, by overroving. This also helps to hold the optical-electrical connection 10 within the helical slots 20 of the protective sleeve 22.

[0055] Since the separated optical fiber pair is located within the carrier tube, it can be considered that the optical fiber pair is housed by the protective sleeve 22 of the main cable 6. In particular, since the carrier tube is located within the helical slot 20 of the protective sleeve 22 of the main cable 6, it can be considered that the optical fiber pair is housed by the helical slot 20 of the protective sleeve 22. The protective sleeve 22 is modular, meaning that the protective sleeve 22 may consist of one or more individual sleeve portions that can be joined together to form the protective sleeve 22. The modularity of the protective sleeve 22 allows for variations in the separation distance between the node universal joint 4 and the sensor module 8.

[0056] An exemplary sensor module 8 is shown in Figure 4. The sensor module 8 comprises a housing 24 having a passage 26, the passage 26 passing axially through the housing 24. The passage 26 allows the sensor module to be externally mounted to the submarine cable 6. This design allows the system cable to pass axially through the sensor module's housing without interfering with the sensor module. When the submarine cable 6 passes through the sensor module's housing 24 via the passage 26, the sensor module 8 can be considered to surround a portion of the submarine cable 6. Externally mounting the sensor module 8 to the outer surface of the cable 8 avoids the need to further interrupt the cable and thus avoids the need for further joints within the cable structure. Avoids unnecessary interruptions to the main cable 6. This helps maintain the integrity of the cable's structural members and preserve the overall tensile strength of the submarine cable 6.

[0057] As can be seen in Figure 5B, the attachment of the sensor module 8 to the cable 6 is achieved using clamping components in the form of multiple clamping screws 28 and clamping sleeves 30. The clamping screws 28 act on the clamping sleeves 30 located between the submarine cable 6 and the sensor module 8, generating a circumferential clamping force on the submarine cable 6. This clamping force is distributed along the entire length of the clamping sleeves 30. In some examples, the clamping sleeves 30 may be integrated with the housing 24. In other examples, the clamping sleeves 30 may be located at each end of the housing 24. The clamping sleeves may be held in place axially by retaining plugs 31.

[0058] Any potential axial slippage that may occur between the sensor module 8 and the cable 6, resulting from the normal deployment and retrieval process, is mitigated by the application of multiple layers of adhesive-backed heat-shrinkable material 32, which is located between the cable 6 and the clamp sleeve 30 and supported by polymer cold injection molding.

[0059] The sensor module 8 includes a hermetically sealed chamber 34, as shown in Figure 5A. The hermetically sealed chamber 34 provides a thermally controlled 1 atmosphere environment for the associated sensor electronics 36. The sensor electronics 36 provides communication between the sensor module 8, the SMART sensor, and the submarine cable 6.

[0060] In some examples, the SMART sensor 38 is located within the sensor module 8. In this case, the sensor is located within the hermetically sealed chamber 34. These SMART sensors 38 can be considered internally mounted sensors.

[0061] In another example, the SMART sensor 38 is located outside the sensor module 8. In this case, the sensor 38 can be considered an externally mounted sensor. As shown in Figure 6, one or more sensors 36 may be mounted on the outer surface of the sensor module 8 and located, for example, in one or more channels that extend axially along the length of the sensor module 8 and are spaced apart around the sensor module 8. Alternatively or additionally, one or more sensors may be externally mounted in a protective sleeve 22, as shown in Figure 3. In this case, the sensors are remote from the sensor module 8. An exemplary remotely externally mounted sensor 38 may include a temperature sensor to separate the thermal action from the sensor electronics 36 inside the housing 24 from the temperature sensor.

[0062] For any externally mounted sensor 38, a sensor interface 40 is located within the hermetically sealed chamber 34 to provide a suitable interface between the sensor 38 and the sensor electronics 36. A hermetically sealed, electrically isolated feedthrough 42 extends through the housing 24 between the hermetically sealed chamber 34 and an outlet 44 within the housing 24, allowing the necessary electronics to be supplied from the housing to the external sensor 38 to connect the sensor 38 to the sensor module 8.

[0063] Regarding both the internally mounted and externally mounted sensors 38, the housing 24 of the sensor module 8 provides appropriate signal conversion suitable for optical cable transmission and applications using standard submarine communication equipment and parameters, so this will not be explained further.

[0064] Sensor data from sensor 38 is transmitted to the sensor module via a dedicated optical fiber pair.

[0065] As described, the sensor pod 2 is positioned to integrate with the existing submarine cable 6 by mounting the sensor pod 2 in series with the submarine cable 6. The sensor pod 2 can be installed as part of a repair to the submarine cable system, for example, as shown in Figure 7. In this case, the sensor pod 2 is one of two joints forming the cable repair, and optical and electrical isolation is achieved within the repair joint formed by the node universal joint 4. The sensor module 8 and sensor 38, as well as the associated electronics 36 and power supply, are located within the cable 6 between the two repair joints without the need to penetrate the cable structure, as shown in Figure 7, which results in a non-invasive installation method.

[0066] Alternatively, sensor pod 2 may be installed at a predetermined location on the new cable before the cable is laid.

[0067] Since sensorpod 2 is mounted in series with the submarine cable, sensorpod 2 can be used with both cable systems without relays, such as the one in Figure 7, and cable systems with relays, such as the one in Figure 8.

[0068] In a non-intermediate cable system, power to the electronic equipment 36 within the sensor module 8 can be provided by using a low-voltage supply on the power conductor in the cable 6. This is because, in a non-intermediate system, the overall span of the cable system is usually relatively short (typically less than 500 km).

[0069] In longer cable systems with repeaters, much higher electrical insulation is required within the sensor pod 2, particularly within the node universal joint 4 and sensor module 8, to cope with the higher system voltages needed to power the repeater system. For both cable systems with and without repeaters, when the sensor pod 2 is used in repair scenarios, the water depth is typically less than 2000m, although this is not a limitation.

[0070] Figure 9 shows another example of sensor module 108. This sensor module 108 is an extended form of the sensor module 8 described earlier, configured to have a larger internal volume within the sensor module 8. This is achieved by removing the features and components associated with clamping the sensor module onto the cable 6 away from the structure of the housing 124, and instead demonstrating the clamping function externally via appropriate clamping components attached to each end of the housing 124. This allows for the provision of a much larger housing 124, which still allows the submarine cable 6 to pass axially through the sensor module 108, while including the sensor electronics, power supply, and sensor interface as previously described.

[0071] As shown in Figures 9A to 9C, the housing 124 can have several different forms. Instead of the cylindrical shape described earlier, the housing 124 may have a cradle-like shape, as shown in Figures 9A, 9B, and 9C, so that the sensor module straddles the submarine cable 6 rather than completely encircling it. In some examples, such as the one shown in Figure 9A, the housing 124 comprises a plurality of independent axially mounted housings 121, each having chambers 121a, 121b, and 121c, which can be configured for different functions, such as sensor electronics 121a, power supply 121b, and sensor interface 121c. In some other examples, such as the one shown in Figure 9B, the housing 124 comprises a plurality of axial chambers 123 within the housing 124. These chambers contain sensor electronics 123a, power supply 123b, and sensor The sensor interface 123c and others may be configured for different functions. In further examples, such as those shown in Figure 9C, the housing 124 comprises several chambers 125 that are radially accessible within the housing 124. As previously mentioned, these chambers may be configured for different functions, such as sensor electronics 125a, power supply 125b, and sensor interface 125c.

[0072] As described in relation to Figure 4, the sensor module 8 is externally attached to the submarine cable 6 such that the sensor module 8 surrounds the submarine cable 6. Next, the process of attaching the sensor module 8 to the submarine cable 6 will be described in more detail.

[0073] Figure 10 shows a cross-section of an exemplary submarine cable 6, which in this case is a single outer sheath cable. The cable 6 comprises a central reinforcing member 50 (e.g., comprising a strength member and a fiber tube core) surrounded by a conduction layer 52, an inner insulating sheath 54, an outer sheath 56, and an outer sheath containing a layer of bituminous composite material 58 (such as tar) covered with polypropylene yarn 60.

[0074] Before the sensor module 8 is installed, the submarine cable 6 is prepared by first removing a predetermined length of the outer layer of the thread 60, as shown in Figure 11, and then removing a layer of tar 58 from the sheath 56, as shown in Figure 12. One or more layers of heat shrink material 32 are applied to at least a portion of the length of the exposed sheath 56 using heat shrink technique, as can be seen in Figure 13. The collar 62 is then centered on the heat shrink material 32. As can be seen in Figure 14, the collar 62 is a split collar having a C-shaped cross-section, preferably made of plastic. The split in the collar allows the collar 62 to be easily attached to the heat shrink material 32. The collar 62 may perform the same function as the clamp sleeve 30 described earlier in relation to Figure 5B, and therefore the collar 62 and the clamp sleeve 30 may be considered interchangeable or equivalent components.

[0075] The collar 62 and clamp sleeve 30 function as anti-rotation features, preventing the sensor module 8 from rotating around the submarine cable 6 (when installed). The presence of the heat-shrink material 32 prevents longitudinal movement of the sensor module 8 along the length of the submarine cable 6.

[0076] Next, the sensor module 8 is inserted onto the collar 62, as shown in Figure 15, so that the front surface 61 of the collar 62 aligns with the inner reference point 9 of the sensor module 8, this alignment is indicated by a dashed line in Figure 15. The inner reference point 9 takes the form of an internal shoulder that functions as a contact point between the sensor module 8 and the collar 62. The inner reference point 9 ensures that the sensor module 8 is precisely positioned relative to the collar 62 before it is fixed in place. In practice, the sensor module 8 is inserted onto the collar 62 and then can slide along the collar 62 (for example, in the direction of arrow A in Figure 15) until the inner reference point 9 of the sensor module 8 contacts the front surface 61 of the collar 62, so as to prevent further longitudinal movement of the sensor module 8 in the direction of arrow A.

[0077] Figure 16 shows a retaining plug 31 inserted between the sensor module 8 and the collar 62, preferably at the end of the sensor module 8 opposite the inner reference point 9 of the sensor module 8 (in the direction of arrow B), which helps to hold the collar 62 and the sensor module 8 in place. The retaining plug 31 can also be seen in Figure 5B.

[0078] The retaining screw 28 fastens the sensor module 8 onto the collar 62 and onto the submarine cable 6. The sensor module 8 is clamped. When the screws 28 are tightened, the division within the collar 62 closes, which means that the collar 62 firmly grips the heat-shrinkable material, ensuring that the collar 62 is clamped to the submarine cable 6. As can be seen in Figure 17, one or more retaining screws 28 may be inserted perpendicular to the submarine cable 6 through the side wall of the sensor module 8. The screws 28 act on the collar 2, generating a circumferential clamping force against the submarine cable 6. This clamping force is distributed along the length of the collar 62, which holds the sensor module 8 in place relative to the submarine cable 6 and prevents the sensor module 8 from rotating around the cable 6.

[0079] Both ends of the sensor module 8 are encapsulated in a protective material 64, preferably a potting material, which is typically a resin or composite. In some examples, the protective material 64 is a backfill molded polyurethane. The potting material 64 helps to fill any gaps that arise between the sensor module 8 and the submarine cable 6 during the clamping process, ensuring a complete seal between the sensor module 8 and the submarine cable 6. In addition to providing mechanical protection and electrical insulation, the potting material 64 provides an environmental seal that prevents the ingress of moisture, dirt, and other contaminants. Therefore, the potting material is important to ensure a watertight seal between the sensor module 8 and the submarine cable 6. In some configurations, the potting material 64 may help to provide strain relief for the photoelectric connection 10 by providing additional support to the cable and reducing the risk of damage due to bending or tension. The potting material 64 may further help to prevent longitudinal movement of the sensor module 8 along the submarine cable 6.

[0080] As previously mentioned, the power and optical connections between the submarine cable 6 and the sensor module 8 are provided by proper cable isolation from the main cable structure within the submarine cable 6. As shown in Figure 3 and also in Figure 19, the optical-electrical connection 10 is routed to the sensor module 8 via a protective sleeve 22 and a helical slot 20.

[0081] As previously mentioned, the protective sleeve 22 may be modular and comprise a plurality of individual sleeve portions, which may be called subsections 22a, 22b, that can be joined together to form the protective sleeve 22. The plurality of subsections 22a, 22b are connected to each other in the interface 23, as shown in Figure 21a. Each subsection 22a, 22b comprises a male end 25 having one or more connecting pins 27 and a female end 29 having one or more receiving holes 29a of a size and shape to receive the connecting pins 27. The male end 25 and female end 29, including the connecting pins 27 and receiving holes 29a, can be seen in Figures 21b and 21c. In some examples, such as that shown in Figure 21b, a ring 70 may be positioned around the interface 23 to provide some form of protection against the ingress of dirt in the interface 23.

[0082] Once the optical and power connections are secured, the cover 66 is installed on the sensor module 8, and the cover 66 includes wire clamp portions 68 for holding the photoelectric connections 10. The cover shown in Figure 20 helps to protect and seal the optical and power connections within the sensor module 8. Bending limiters 18, such as those shown in Figure 2, may be fixed to both ends of the sensor module 8.

Claims

1. A sensor pod for attaching sensors to submarine cables, A mounting node configured to provide a connection between the sensor and the submarine cable, A sensor module configured for connection with at least one sensor, Equipped with, The mounting node is connected to the sensor module via at least one optical fiber cable. The sensor pod is positioned to be connected in series with the submarine cable. A sensor pod in which the sensor module is configured to be attached to the outer surface of a submarine cable via at least one clamping component.

2. The sensor pod according to claim 1, wherein the sensor module comprises an hermetically sealed chamber.

3. The sensor pod according to claim 2, wherein the hermetically sealed chamber comprises electronic equipment configured to provide electrical communication between the sensor and the sensor module.

4. The sensor pod according to claim 2 or 3, wherein at least one of the sensors is disposed within the hermetically sealed chamber.

5. The sensor pod according to claim 2 or 3, wherein at least one of the sensors is located outside the sensor module.

6. The sensor pod according to claim 5, wherein an electronic feed is arranged between the hermetically sealed chamber and the external sensor to provide a communication link between the sensor and the sensor module.

7. The sensor pod according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the at least one optical fiber cable preferably comprises at least one optical fiber pair and a power connection, and the at least one optical fiber cable takes the form of a carrier tube housing at least one optical fiber pair.

8. The sensor pod according to claim 7, wherein the carrier tube is made of a conductive material.

9. The sensor pod according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the at least one optical fiber cable is housed within a protective sleeve.

10. The sensor pod according to claim 9, wherein the at least one optical fiber cable is housed in the spiral slot of the protective sleeve.

11. The sensor pod according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the protective sleeve is a modular protective sleeve comprising one or more individual sleeve portions.

12. The sensor pod according to any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein one or more sensors are configured to be mounted on the outer surface of the protective sleeve.

13. The sensor pod according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the clamp component comprises a clamp sleeve, and the clamp sleeve is configured to be positioned between the submarine cable and the sensor module.

14. The sensor pod according to claim 13, wherein the clamp sleeve includes a C-shaped cross-section.

15. The sensor pod according to claim 13 or 14, wherein the clamping component comprises at least one fastener, the at least one fastener being positioned to apply a radially acting clamping force to the submarine cable via the clamping sleeve.

16. The sensor pod according to claim 15, wherein the clamp component comprises a plurality of fasteners configured to be arranged along the length of the sensor module.

17. The sensor pod according to any one of claims 13 to 16, further comprising a portion of heat-shrinkable material configured to be positioned between the clamp sleeve and the submarine cable.

18. The sensor pod according to any one of claims 1 to 17, further comprising a protective material configured to at least partially enclose the end of the sensor module.

19. The sensor pod according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the sensor pod is arranged to be connected in series with a submarine communication cable.

20. The sensor pod according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the sensor pod is arranged to be connected in series with a non-intermediate submarine cable.

21. The sensor pod according to any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the sensor pod is arranged to be connected in series with a submarine cable with a relay.

22. A method for attaching sensors to submarine cables, Removing at least one outer layer of the submarine cable from a portion of the submarine cable, The sensor module is attached to the outer surface of the submarine cable using at least one clamping component, Connecting the sensor to the sensor module, Methods that include...

23. The method according to claim 22, wherein removing the at least one outer layer includes removing the at least one outer layer to expose the outer layer.

24. The method according to claim 23, further comprising applying a layer of heat-shrinkable material to the exposed exterior layer.

25. The method according to claim 24, further comprising inserting at least the clamping components onto the heat-shrinkable material.

26. The method according to claim 25, comprising encapsulating at least one end of the sensor module within a protective material.

Images