Spatially Multiplexed Acoustic Modem for Higher DFOS Data Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing distributed fiber optic sensing (DFOS) systems lack efficient remote control and data transfer capabilities, and are limited by power requirements, hindering their practical application in extended monitoring scenarios.
Innovation Solution
A radio-controlled, spatially multiplexed acoustic modem that employs multiple vibrators along a fiber optic sensor cable for enhanced data transfer and utilizes wireless power tapping from high voltage lines to operate independently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a single vibrator is used for data transmission, then the system structure is simple, but the data transfer rate is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the data transmission function across multiple vibrators positioned at different locations along the fiber optic cable. Each vibrator acts as an independent data transmission unit, allowing parallel data streams to be transmitted simultaneously from multiple spatial locations, thereby increasing overall data transfer rate while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular deployment
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from single-point data transmission to multi-point spatial multiplexing along the fiber optic cable. By distributing vibrators across the spatial dimension of the cable, the system creates multiple parallel data channels that operate simultaneously, effectively increasing data transfer capacity without proportionally increasing system complexity at any single location
2Ease of operation
If the acoustic modem requires external power connections, then the device can operate continuously, but the installation complexity and power requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The acoustic modem harvests power directly from the high voltage transmission line through electromagnetic induction, eliminating the need for external power connections or batteries. The device serves its own power needs by converting ambient electromagnetic energy from the power line into electrical power, enabling autonomous operation and dramatically simplifying installation while reducing ongoing power requirement constraints
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables remote control and n-fold data transfer rate enhancement, along with self-sustained operation, making DFOS systems more versatile and practical for long-distance monitoring.
Implementation Method 1
a DFOS system that sends optical pulses through a fiber optic cable
Implementation Method 2
multiple vibrators that are positioned at different locations along a sensing fiber
Implementation Method 3
taps wirelessly into high power lines to charge itself and power its sensors and vibrators
Data Source
AI summary
A radio-controlled, two-way acoustic modem for operating with a distributed fiber optic sensing (DFOS) system including circuitry that receives radio signals including configuration information, configures the modem to operate according to the configuration information, and generate acoustic signals that are detected by the DFOS system. The acoustic modem includes one or more sensors that detect environmental information that is encoded in the acoustic signals for further reception by the DFOS system. The received configuration information may change the operating times, sensors or other operating aspects of the modem as desired an such information may be transmitted from a fixed location or a mobile vehicle. The acoustic modem may include several vibrator elements that provide a spatially multiplexed vibration signal imparted on the DFOS system fiber sensor.