Fiber-Optic Network Cable Identification at Multi-Port Jacks

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Solution Overview

Problem

Identifying network cables corresponding to specific jacks in environments with multiple cables and ports can be difficult due to the lack of effective identification methods.

Innovation Solution

Integration of fiber-optic cables within network cables that align with light sources near jacks or special light sources, allowing light transmission through the fiber-optic cables to illuminate the cable ends for easy identification.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If traditional network cables without fiber-optic integration are used, then the cable structure remains simple and cost-effective, but cable identification becomes difficult in environments with multiple cables and ports

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecable identificationVSAvoidcable structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines traditional copper network cable conductors with fiber-optic cables into a single integrated cable structure. The fiber-optic cable is attached to the network cable conductors along a portion of their length, merging two different transmission media into one unified cable assembly that serves both electrical and optical identification functions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The fiber-optic cable acts as an intermediary element that enables visual identification without interfering with the electrical signal transmission function of the copper conductors. By attaching the fiber-optic cable alongside the electrical conductors, the system uses light as a mediator to provide cable tracing capability while maintaining the original electrical connectivity function.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If fiber-optic cable is integrated into network cable, then visual identification through light transmission is enabled, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecable identificationVSAvoidcable assembly process

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The integrated cable is manufactured in segments where the fiber-optic cable is attached to the network cable conductors along a specific portion of their length rather than the entire length. This segmentation allows for easier assembly and manufacturing by defining specific attachment zones rather than requiring continuous integration throughout the full cable length.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The fiber-optic cable is attached along a portion of the length of the network cable conductors rather than the entire length. This partial attachment provides sufficient light transmission for identification purposes while reducing manufacturing complexity and material costs compared to full-length integration.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #16Partial or excessive action

3Measurement precision

If multiple fiber-optic cables are used for identification, then identification accuracy improves, but device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecable identification accuracyVSAvoidconnector structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The raised sections on the connector serve multiple functions: they provide structural alignment features for proper connector insertion and simultaneously act as positioning elements that ensure the fiber-optic cable ends align with light sources adjacent to the jack. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate alignment mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The connector design ensures that all fiber-optic cables are positioned at equivalent alignment positions relative to the light sources through the use of raised sections. This creates equipotential alignment conditions where each fiber-optic cable end is positioned optimally for light transmission, ensuring consistent identification accuracy across multiple cables.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #12Equipotentiality

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

Facilitates quick and visual identification of network cables by illuminating their ends, simplifying the process of tracing cables to the correct jack in complex environments.

Implementation Method 1

Light from the light source is transmitted within the fiber-optic cable to a second end of the fiber-optic cable opposite to the first end

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectTotal internal reflection: Total Internal Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS20250231355A1Network cable and connector for cable identification

Publication Date: 2025.07.17 LENOVO ENTERPRISE SOLUTIONS (SINGAPORE) PTE LTD

AI summary

A network cable is disclosed. The network cable includes a plurality of network cable conductors. The plurality of network cable conductors include a first end and a second end. The network cable includes a connector coupled to the first end of the network cable conductors. The connector is configured to engage with a jack. The network cable includes a fiber-optic cable attached to the plurality of network cable conductors along a length of the plurality of network cable conductors. The fiber-optic cable includes a first end positioned on the connector to align with a light source adjacent to the jack. Light from the light source is transmitted within the fiber-optic cable to a second end of the fiber-optic cable opposite to the first end.