Bristle Separator for Communication Cable Crosstalk Reduction

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional communication cables with separators face limitations in flexibility and material efficiency due to preformed structures and flat tape designs, which can lead to increased crosstalk between twisted pairs, reducing data transmission rates and increasing bit rate errors.

Innovation Solution

The use of a separator structure with a central spine and radially projecting bristles or extensions that can compress towards the spine, providing effective separation between twisted pairs while minimizing material usage, thereby reducing crosstalk and enhancing flexibility.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If preformed separator structures are used, then separation between twisted pairs is provided, but flexibility is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveseparation between twisted pairsVSAvoidflexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The separator is divided into multiple discrete bristles radiating from a central spine, allowing each bristle to independently deflect and adapt to the positions of adjacent twisted pairs while maintaining overall separation structure

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The separator transitions from a rigid preformed structure to a dynamic structure where bristles can move and compress independently, enabling the separator to adapt its shape to accommodate different cable configurations and maintain separation under various conditions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Quantity of substance

If flat tape structures are used, then material usage is reduced, but separation between each set of adjacent twisted pairs is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvematerial usageVSAvoidseparation between twisted pairs
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The separator transitions from a two-dimensional flat tape to a three-dimensional radial structure with bristles extending outward from a central spine, enabling the separator to reach into spaces between multiple sets of adjacent twisted pairs simultaneously while using minimal material

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

Separation is provided locally at each bristle tip where it contacts adjacent twisted pairs, with the central spine providing structural support. This localized separation approach achieves effective isolation between all twisted pairs without requiring continuous material coverage

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Stability of the object's composition

If folded cross-filler structures are used, then separation is improved, but required material amount increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveseparation between twisted pairsVSAvoidmaterial amount
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple bristles are nested around a central spine, with each bristle providing separation in its own radial direction. This nested configuration achieves comprehensive separation between all twisted pairs using minimal material, avoiding the need for folded structures that require additional material layers

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

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

This solution effectively reduces crosstalk between twisted pairs, improves data transmission rates, and decreases material costs by using a more flexible and efficient separator design within communication cables.

Implementation Method 1

a first portion of the bristles may include bristles that respectively extend between one or more sets of adjacent twisted pairs... a second portion of the bristles may include bristles that are respectively compressed by one or more of the twisted pairs back towards the spine

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS9922753B1Communication cables with separators having bristles
Publication Date: 2018.03.20 SUPERIOR ESSEX INT INC
  • US9922753B1 patent drawing
  • US9922753B1 patent drawing
  • US9922753B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A cable may include a plurality of twisted pairs of individually insulated conductors and a separator positioned between the twisted pairs. The separator may include a longitudinally extending spine positioned between the plurality of twisted pairs, and a plurality of bristles may radially extend from the spine. A first portion of the bristles may extend between one or more sets of adjacent twisted pairs, and a second portion of the bristles may be compressed towards the spine by one or more of the plurality of twisted pairs. Additionally, a jacket may be formed around the twisted pairs and the separator.