Hybrid Cable Architecture for Power and Optical Signal Delivery
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a growing demand for untethered wireless communication devices that require high data rates, necessitating the cost-effective and efficient deployment of fixed location transceivers for wireless coverage, particularly in small areas, while existing systems face challenges in simultaneously transmitting power and communication signals efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A hybrid cable system that integrates optical fibers and electrical conductors to transmit both power and communication signals to wireless transceivers, converting voltages at both ends to meet device requirements and providing overvoltage protection, allowing for fast and low-cost deployment of wireless coverage areas.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate cables are used for power and communication transmission, then reliability is improved, but device complexity and deployment cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines power transmission and communication transmission into a single hybrid cable system. The cable contains both electrical conductors for power delivery and optical fibers for data communication, allowing both functions to be transmitted simultaneously through one integrated medium rather than requiring separate cable infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The hybrid cable serves multiple functions simultaneously: it transmits electrical power, carries optical communication signals, and provides structural support. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate dedicated power cables and communication cables, simplifying the overall system architecture.
2Adaptability or versatility
If voltage conversion is performed at both ends of the cable, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The voltage conversion function is segmented into two separate locations: a first voltage converter at the power source end and a second voltage converter at the device end. Each converter handles only the voltage transformation needed for its local context, distributing the complexity across multiple simple components rather than requiring one complex centralized converter.
Solution Approach 2:
The hybrid cable itself acts as an intermediary medium that carries both power and communication signals. The optical fiber component provides a high-impedance path that isolates the electrical power transmission from the communication signals, allowing independent optimization of each function without interference.
3Productivity
If hybrid cable with both electrical conductor and optical fiber is used, then productivity is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The hybrid cable is constructed by segmenting different cable types and joining them together. The optical fiber cable and electrical conductor cable are manufactured separately using established processes, then connected through standardized interfaces. This modular approach allows each component to be optimized independently while maintaining overall system performance.
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 efficient and cost-effective deployment of wireless communication systems by facilitating simultaneous power and communication transmission, enhancing coverage areas with cellular technologies, and supporting various locations with modular and scalable power converters.
Implementation Method 1
transmitting the communication signals in an optical form through the hybrid cable from the first location to the second location
Implementation Method 2
transmitting the electrical power through the hybrid cable from the first location to the second location
Data Source
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AI summary
Systems, methods and devices for providing communication signals and electrical power to active equipment are disclosed. Hybrid cables are used to transmit the electrical power and communication signals. Voltage converters are used to limit the voltage of the electrical power transmitted through the hybrid cables and delivered to the active devices.