Hybrid Fiber Patch Panel for Long-Distance Power and Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current Power over Ethernet (PoE) cabling systems face limitations in distance and power availability, making it challenging to deploy remote devices like In-Building Wireless Small Cells, Wi-Fi access points, and HD cameras, which require both high-performance fiber networking and electrical power.
Innovation Solution
A hybrid fiber and power cabling system with a patch panel/rack unit that accommodates both fiber and power modules, allowing for flexible deployment of high-density fiber and power connections over extended distances, eliminating the need for separate telecom and power infrastructure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If Power over Ethernet (PoE) cabling systems are used for remote device powering and communications, then device placement flexibility is improved, but distance limitations and power availability restrict deployment options
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines fiber optic cabling and power delivery into a single hybrid cable system. The fiber portion provides high-speed data transmission over long distances, while the integrated power conductors deliver electrical power to remote devices, eliminating the need for separate power cables and resolving the distance and power availability limitations of PoE systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The hybrid cable serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides high-performance fiber networking for data communications and electrical power delivery for device powering through the same cable infrastructure. This multi-functionality allows a single cable to replace both data and power connections, expanding deployment flexibility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate telecom and power infrastructure are deployed to provide both networking and power to remote devices, then functional requirements are met, but installation complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges separate telecom and power infrastructure into a single hybrid fiber and power cable system. The cable contains both fiber optic strands for data transmission and copper conductors for power delivery, allowing both functions to be delivered through one cable rather than requiring separate installations.
Solution Approach 2:
The hybrid cable infrastructure is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously - high-speed fiber networking and electrical power delivery - through a single unified system. This eliminates the need for separate cable trays, conduits, and installation processes for power and data, reducing overall infrastructure complexity.
3Ease of operation
If traditional PoE cabling is used for remote device deployment, then device powering is achieved, but remote device placement options are limited by distance and power availability
Solution Approach 1:
The hybrid cable combines fiber optic data transmission capabilities with integrated power delivery conductors, enabling remote devices to be powered and connected over distances far exceeding PoE limitations. The fiber portion transmits data at high speeds while the power conductors deliver electricity to devices located anywhere along the fiber path.
Solution Approach 2:
The hybrid cable acts as an intermediary that bridges the gap between power sources and remote devices. The power conductors within the hybrid cable carry electrical power over the same infrastructure that carries data via fiber, enabling power delivery to remote locations without requiring physical proximity to power outlets.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a hybrid fiber and power cabling system comprising a patch panel comprising a module enclosure having four module docking slots configured to accommodate up to three modules, and at least two removable modules which include at least one fiber/patch module and at least one power/conductor module to provide a hybrid patch panel having both fiber and power connectivity that is suitable for use in combination with hybrid fiber/copper cables. The system can be deployed in central locations to provide high-performance fiber networking with electrical power to remote devices through the communications infrastructure.