Hybrid Ethernet Fiber Cable for Indoor Disaster Localization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current disaster localization systems in public places, such as schools, lack real-time detection and localization capabilities, which are critical for minimizing harm and casualties in emergency situations.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a hybrid Ethernet/optical fiber cable system that combines data communications with distributed optical fiber sensing, allowing for simultaneous data service and environmental monitoring, utilizing an interrogator to analyze reflected signals and determine the location of disasters within buildings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional disaster localization systems are deployed in public places, then disaster detection capability is provided, but real-time detection and localization capabilities are lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by enabling optical fiber cables to serve dual purposes: traditional data communication and disaster detection/localization. The optical fiber acts as both a communication medium and a sensing element that can detect vibrations, temperatures, and other environmental parameters associated with disasters, eliminating the need for separate detection infrastructure and enabling real-time monitoring.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical fiber cable performs self-service by utilizing its own physical properties (light transmission characteristics) to detect environmental changes. The cable itself becomes the sensor, detecting vibrations from earthquakes, explosions, or other disasters through changes in light propagation, thereby providing autonomous disaster detection capability without requiring additional external sensing devices.
2Measurement precision
If separate disaster detection infrastructure is installed, then real-time localization capability is improved, but device complexity and installation cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the need for separate disaster detection infrastructure by making the existing optical fiber cable perform both communication and detection functions. The same cable that carries data traffic also serves as the sensing medium for disaster localization, significantly reducing system complexity and installation requirements while maintaining high measurement precision through distributed sensing capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the communication function and detection function into a single optical fiber cable system. By combining these functions, the system avoids the complexity of installing and maintaining separate detection infrastructure, while the integrated system leverages the existing cable network to achieve precise disaster localization through distributed optical sensing.
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 real-time disaster detection and localization, reducing damage and casualties by providing a comprehensive sensing backbone that can monitor entire buildings or multiple locations, integrating with existing data communication infrastructure for efficient emergency response.
Implementation Method 1
distributed optical fiber sensing
Implementation Method 2
analyze reflected signals
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the present disclosure describe systems, methods and structures providing detection and localization of disaster-related indoor events via hybrid ethernet/optical fiber cable.