Hybrid Power and Fiber Interface for Remote Wireless Links
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a challenge in providing efficient and cost-effective power and communication solutions for remote wireless devices, particularly in areas where power outlets are not conveniently located, such as in cellular coverage areas, requiring complex and expensive power distribution systems.
Innovation Solution
A hybrid cable system that integrates optical fibers and electrical conductors to transmit both power and data, using insulation displacement connectors and DC-DC converters to adapt voltage levels, along with interface devices for outdoor use, ensuring reliable power management and protection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate power and communication systems are used for remote wireless devices, then power delivery and communication reliability are ensured, but system complexity and installation cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines separate power delivery and optical communication functions into a single hybrid cable system. The cable contains both electrical conductors for power transmission and optical fibers for data communication, eliminating the need for separate power outlets and communication infrastructure at remote wireless device locations.
Solution Approach 2:
The hybrid cable serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides electrical power delivery through integrated conductors, optical signal transmission through embedded fibers, and maintains mechanical strength through a unified cable structure. This multi-functional design replaces traditional separate power and communication systems.
2Ease of manufacture
If hybrid cable with integrated power and optical fiber is used, then installation complexity and cost are reduced, but reliable electrical termination and fiber routing become more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly is divided into distinct functional sections: an electrical connector portion for conductor termination with IDC contacts, an optical portion for fiber routing and termination, and an integrated housing that consolidates both. This segmentation allows specialized handling of each component type while maintaining overall integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The hybrid cable connector acts as an intermediary device that interfaces both electrical and optical components to the wireless device. It provides standardized connection interfaces for power delivery and optical communication, simplifying the integration process at the device level while managing the complexity of hybrid cable termination.
3Adaptability or versatility
If voltage adaptation is implemented for different wireless devices, then power compatibility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The DC-DC converter incorporates dynamic voltage regulation capabilities that automatically adjust output voltage levels based on the connected wireless device's requirements. The converter can adapt between different voltage outputs (e.g., 12V, 24V, 48V) to match various device power specifications, providing universal compatibility without manual configuration.
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
The system provides a simple and efficient means to power and communicate with remote devices, reducing installation complexity and costs by integrating power and data transmission in a single cable, suitable for various wireless coverage areas and environments.
Implementation Method 1
an optical fiber for transmitting optical signals from the cable inlet to the cable outlet
Implementation Method 2
an electrical conductor for carrying electrical power from the cable inlet to the output cable
Data Source
AI summary
A power and optical fiber interface system includes a housing having an interior. A cable inlet is configured to receive a hybrid cable having an electrical conductor and an optical fiber. An insulation displacement connector (IDC) is situated in the interior of the housing configured to electrically terminate the conductor, and a cable outlet is configured to receive an output cable that is connectable to the IDC and configured to output signals received via the optical fiber.