Fiber-Optic Modular Connectors for Utility Submetering IED Links
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current electrical utility submetering systems face challenges in efficiently transmitting data between intelligent electronic devices (IEDs) and sensors due to limitations in communication media, such as noise susceptibility and speed constraints in traditional electrical connections.
Innovation Solution
The use of modular connectors, like RJ-45 connectors, coupled with fiber-optic cables for data transmission between IEDs and sensors, enabling faster and more reliable communication by converting electrical signals to light signals and vice versa within the connectors, thus bypassing internal conversion needs in IEDs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If traditional electrical connections are used for data transmission between IEDs and sensors, then the system structure is simple, but the data transmission speed is limited and noise susceptibility increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional electrical signal transmission with optical signal transmission using fiber optic cables. The modular connector incorporates optical interfaces that convert electrical signals to optical signals for transmission, eliminating the limitations of electrical connections while maintaining a standardized connector structure. This substitution enables high-speed data transmission and high-frequency sampling without the noise susceptibility inherent in electrical connections.
2Reliability
If fiber-optic cables with modular connectors are used for data transmission, then noise interference is reduced and transmission speed increases, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The modular connector is designed to serve multiple functions: it provides mechanical alignment, electrical contact, and optical signal transmission through integrated interfaces. The same connector housing accommodates both electrical contacts for power/control and optical fibers for data transmission, eliminating the need for separate connection mechanisms and reducing overall system complexity despite the advanced transmission medium.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular connector acts as an intermediary device that interfaces between the IED and fiber-optic cable systems. It includes integrated converters that transform electrical signals to optical signals and vice versa, shielding the internal IED circuitry from direct exposure to optical transmission complexities while enabling reliable noise-resistant communication.
3Length of stationary object
If electrical connections are used, then the communication distance is limited, but the system is easier to implement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements fiber-optic communication infrastructure with modular connectors that enable long-distance data transmission between IEDs and sensors. The optical transmission medium naturally supports extended communication distances without signal degradation, and the modular connector design standardizes the connection interface, making installation and maintenance comparable to traditional electrical connections despite the advanced technology.
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 enhances data transmission speed, reduces noise interference, and allows for high-speed, high-frequency sampling, facilitating efficient power monitoring and management while enabling communication over long distances and high-voltage isolation.
Implementation Method 1
enabling faster and more reliable communication by converting electrical signals to light signals and vice versa within the connectors
Data Source
AI summary
Devices, systems and methods for coupling sensors to intelligent electronic devices (IED's), e.g., an electrical power meter, via various communication media for electrical utility submetering are provided. The present disclosure provides a mechanism for coupling an IED to another desired device, e.g., a circuit breaker, using modular connectors (e.g., a RJ-45 connector, fiber optic connectors, etc.) and fiber-optic cables. The present disclosure also provides for coupling devices using modular connectors via wired or wireless connectivity.