DC Power Cable Repeater Layout for Long-Distance Optical Signals
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Solution Overview
Problem
DC power cables face challenges in transmitting data over long distances due to signal attenuation, as existing solutions for AC power cables, such as harnessing magnetic fields, are not applicable, limiting the length and efficiency of DC power cable systems, especially in submarine environments where access is difficult and harsh.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a power supply lead within the DC power cable system to power repeaters that amplify optical signals in the optical fiber cables, allowing for extended transmission distances by connecting multiple optical fiber cable sections via repeaters spaced approximately 200 km or less, and integrating the optical fiber cables within the armor layer or conductor for support and protection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If the optical fiber cable length is extended to transmit data over long distances, then the data transmission capability is improved, but the optical signal experiences attenuation which limits the maximum length
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces repeaters as intermediary devices along the optical fiber cable to amplify and regenerate optical signals. These repeaters are powered by a dedicated power supply lead and serve as mediator points that restore signal strength periodically, enabling long-distance data transmission without excessive attenuation. The repeaters are strategically positioned at intervals along the cable to ensure signal integrity over extended distances.
2Length of moving object
If repeaters are added to amplify optical signals for long-distance transmission, then the data transmission distance is extended, but the device complexity increases due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions into the repeater units: optical signal amplification, power reception from the power supply lead, and integration within the cable structure. By combining these functions into single repeater nodes rather than separate systems, the overall device complexity is reduced while achieving long-distance transmission capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The power supply lead serves multiple purposes: it provides power to the repeaters for optical signal amplification and can also serve as part of the cable's structural framework. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated power delivery systems, thereby reducing overall system complexity.
3Reliability
If a power supply lead is added to power the repeaters, then the optical signal can be transmitted over long distances, but the cable structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply lead is nested within the existing cable structure, utilizing the space already allocated for cable components. The lead is integrated into the cable's layered construction, positioned alongside other cable elements without requiring external housing or separate structural support, thereby minimizing additional structural complexity.
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 reliable and efficient data transmission over long distances in DC power cables, including submarine cables, by mitigating signal attenuation and allowing simultaneous electrical power and telecommunication capabilities, with the option to monitor the power cable through sensor data transmission.
Implementation Method 1
the repeater is configured to amplify the optical signal received from the first optical fiber cable section and to transmit the amplified optical signal to the second optical fiber cable section
Data Source
AI summary
A DC power cable system including: a power cable having a conductor, an insulation system surrounding the conductor, wherein the insulation system including an inner semiconducting layer, an insulation layer arranged around the inner semiconducting layer, and an outer semiconducting layer arranged around the insulation layer, an optical fiber cable extending along the power cable, a power supply lead extending along the power cable; and a repeater powered by the power supply lead and connected to the optical fiber cable, wherein the repeater is arranged to amplify an optical signal propagating inthe optical fiber cable.