Optical Data Link for USB Power and Signal Transmission
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional USB links using copper cables are limited by signal attenuation and susceptibility to electromagnetic interference, making them unsuitable for long distances and EMI-sensitive environments, and existing optical solutions do not provide a fully functional, all-optical alternative for powering devices.
Innovation Solution
An optically powered optical data link and interface module that uses a multi-segment photovoltaic power converter to convert optical signals into electrical power and data, allowing for remote powering and operation of devices without additional electrical power sources, and can operate in EMI-sensitive environments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If copper cables are used for USB connections, then power and data transmission are enabled, but signal attenuation and electromagnetic interference increase with distance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces copper electrical cables with optical fiber cables to transmit data and power. Optical fibers use light instead of electrical signals, eliminating electromagnetic interference and signal attenuation issues that plague copper cables over long distances. The optical interface module converts electrical USB signals to optical signals for transmission through the fiber optic cable.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces optical interface modules at both ends of the optical cable that serve as intermediaries to convert between electrical USB signals and optical signals. These modules enable the use of optical fiber while maintaining compatibility with standard USB devices and hosts, effectively mediating between the existing electrical USB ecosystem and the new optical transmission medium.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If optical cables are used for data transmission, then electromagnetic interference is eliminated, but device powering capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges data transmission and power delivery into a single optical cable system. The optical interface module separates the incoming optical signal into data and power components, converting both to electrical form to simultaneously power the device and transmit data through the same optical connection, eliminating the need for separate power cables.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state and form of energy transmission by using optical signals (light) instead of electrical signals. The optical power is converted to electrical power at the receiving end through photodetectors and power management circuits, enabling power delivery through a medium that traditionally only carries data.
3Length of stationary object
If USB cable length is extended beyond 5 meters, then device accessibility is improved, but signal attenuation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes copper electrical signaling with optical signaling in fiber optic cables. Optical signals do not suffer from the same resistance and capacitance effects that cause signal attenuation in copper cables, enabling reliable transmission over distances much greater than the 5-meter USB limitation while maintaining signal integrity.
4Adaptability or versatility
If traditional USB connections are used, then device compatibility is maintained, but EMI sensitivity increases in sensitive environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses optical interface modules as intermediaries that maintain USB protocol compatibility while isolating the device from electromagnetic interference. These modules electrically connect to the USB device but optically connect to the host, creating an isolation barrier that blocks EMI while preserving full USB functionality through protocol conversion.
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 reliable and efficient data transmission and power delivery over longer distances without the limitations of copper cables, providing a robust solution for EMI-sensitive environments by using optical signals for both data and power transmission.
Implementation Method 1
a photodetector for receiving the downstream optical signal and for converting the downstream optical signal into an electrical signal
Implementation Method 2
an optical transceiver for converting an upstream electrical signal provided from a host controller into an upstream optical signal and for converting downstream optical signals received from a device into upstream electrical signals
Data Source
AI summary
The invention provides an optically powered device interface module for operating an external device, and an optically powered data link comprising the same. In one embodiment the device interface module includes an optical interface for receiving optical power and data signals, an electrical USB interface for providing USB compliant electrical data signals and a 5V electrical power signal to an external USB device, a transducer coupled to a signal processor for converting the optical power and data signals into the 5V electrical power signal and the USB-compliant electrical data signals, and a power distribution circuit for providing electrical power obtained from the optical power signal to the device interface module circuitry. The transducer may be embodied using a single photovoltaic power converter for receiving the optical power and for receiving and transmitting optical data signals.