Illuminated Leaky Feeder Cable for Signal and Lighting Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing communication systems using leaky feeder cables are costly, cumbersome, and inefficient, as they require separate installations for signal distribution and illumination, which can interfere with aesthetics and increase installation complexity.
Innovation Solution
A communication cable with a leaky feeder structure integrated with an illumination arrangement, featuring a core conductor, insulation shield, outer conductor with apertures, and a jacket, where the illumination units are strategically placed along the cable to serve both data signal distribution and lighting purposes, reducing installation effort and space while maintaining effective signal transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate installations are used for signal distribution and illumination, then signal transmission and lighting functions are both achieved, but installation complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines separate signal distribution and illumination installations into a single integrated cable system. The communication cable includes both conductive elements for data transmission and light-guiding elements for illumination, allowing both functions to be achieved through one installation process, thereby reducing installation complexity while maintaining functional reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated cable serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as both a communication signal distribution medium and an illumination source. The cable structure incorporates elements that enable both electromagnetic signal transmission and light guidance, making a single component perform what previously required separate systems
2Reliability
If separate installations are used for signal distribution and illumination, then both functions are achieved, but installation space and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
By merging signal distribution and illumination into a single cable assembly, the patent eliminates the need for separate cable routes and installation spaces. The integrated structure allows both functions to share the same physical pathway, reducing the total quantity of installation materials and space required
Solution Approach 2:
The illumination elements are nested within or alongside the signal transmission elements in the cable structure. The light-guiding elements are positioned within the cable assembly in a way that allows them to coexist with the conductive elements, optimizing space utilization through nested or adjacent positioning
3Reliability
If leaky feeders are installed in exposed areas, then signal distribution is achieved, but aesthetic design is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated cable can incorporate light-emitting or light-guiding elements that provide illumination and visual appeal. The cable can emit or guide visible light to create aesthetic effects, transforming the previously purely functional exposed installation into one that also contributes to the visual design of the environment
Solution Approach 2:
The cable transitions from serving only as a signal distribution medium to also functioning as an illumination and aesthetic element. By incorporating light-guiding or light-emitting capabilities, the same exposed installation that distributes signals also provides visual enhancement to the environment
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 integrated communication cable system reduces installation costs and space requirements while providing a unified solution for signal distribution and illumination, enhancing aesthetic integration and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The outer conductor may comprise a plurality of slots, gaps or other apertures along its length such that the coaxial cable emits and receives radio waves
Implementation Method 2
An illumination arrangement may be arranged at least along sections of a length of the cable
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems are provided for designing, implementing, and/or using communication cables comprising a leaky feeder structure, which may be configurable for homogeneous distribution of data signals. An example communication cable may comprise a core conductor, an insulation shield surrounding the core conductor, an outer conductor around the insulation shield and having one or more apertures arranged along its length, and a jacket at least partly covering the outer conductor. The communication cable may also comprise an illumination arrangement which may be arranged at least along sections of the length of the cable. The illumination arrangement may comprise a plurality of light emitting units.