Optical Fiber Jumper Connection Status Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for detecting the connection status of optical fiber jumpers are unsafe due to electromagnetic interference and wear and tear, leading to unreliable signal detection and manual operation errors in Optical Distribution Frames (ODFs).

Innovation Solution

A method and apparatus that use an optical signal to detect the connection status by generating a signal at one port and sending it through a parallel optical fiber connected to both ends of the optical fiber jumper, allowing for independent detection paths and real-time status updates without electrical interference.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If electric connection ports and pins are used to detect optical fiber jumper connection status, then connection detection can be performed, but electromagnetic interference and sparking occur leading to unsafe detection

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection safetyVSAvoidelectromagnetic interference
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the electrical detection system with an optical detection system. Specifically, it uses optical fibers to transmit detection signals and optical modules to convert between optical and electrical signals. The detection signal is transmitted through the optical fiber jumper being tested, eliminating direct electrical connections between detection devices and the jumper, thereby avoiding electromagnetic interference and sparking hazards.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces optical modules as intermediary devices that convert electrical signals to optical signals for transmission through the optical fiber jumper. This intermediary optical transmission layer isolates the detection system from electromagnetic interference while maintaining detection functionality. The optical module acts as a buffer that converts between electrical and optical domains safely.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple optical fiber jumpers are present on ODF, then connection distribution is achieved, but electromagnetic field coupling causes interference between jumpers

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection distribution capabilityVSAvoidinterference signal
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces electrical signal transmission with optical signal transmission for detection purposes. By using optical fibers to carry detection signals through each jumper, the system eliminates electromagnetic field coupling between adjacent jumpers on the ODF. Optical signals do not generate electromagnetic interference, allowing multiple jumpers to operate independently without mutual interference.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Ease of operation

If manual operation and data recording are used for ODF maintenance, then operation flexibility is maintained, but human errors occur leading to incorrect connection records

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanual operation flexibilityVSAvoidconnection record accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements automatic detection and feedback mechanisms that continuously monitor the actual connection status of optical fiber jumpers. The detection system automatically compares the detected status with the recorded data in the database, and when discrepancies are found, it generates alarm information. This feedback loop ensures data accuracy without requiring manual verification, eliminating human error while maintaining operational flexibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs self-verification by automatically detecting connection status and comparing it with recorded data without human intervention. The detection apparatus autonomously identifies mismatches between actual connections and database records, generating alerts for correction. This self-service capability maintains manual operation flexibility while ensuring data accuracy through automated verification.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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 solution ensures a safer and more reliable detection process by eliminating electromagnetic interference and enabling real-time connection status updates, reducing the risk of human error and improving operational efficiency in ODFs.

Implementation Method 1

an optical module in the detection device is used to convert the detection signal into an optical signal

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical to optical conversion: Light Emitting Diode

Implementation Method 2

sending the optical signal to a second port through a first optical fiber, where the first optical fiber is connected to two ends of an optical fiber jumper

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectOptical signal transmission: Optical Fibre

Implementation Method 3

the optical module is further used to convert the optical signal into an electrical signal

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectOptical to electrical conversion: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS8965200B2Method, apparatus and system for detecting connection status of optical fiber jumper
Publication Date: 2015.02.24 HUAWEI TECH CO LTD
  • US8965200B2 patent drawing
  • US8965200B2 patent drawing
  • US8965200B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method, an apparatus and a system for detecting a connection status of an optical fiber jumper are provided in the embodiments of the present invention. The method for detecting a connection status of an optical fiber jumper includes: judging a connection status of a second port and a first port according to whether an optical signal sent by the first port to the second port through a first optical fiber is received, wherein the first optical fiber is connected to two ends of an optical fiber jumper, and the two ends of the optical fiber jumper are connected to the first port and the second port respectively; and obtaining a port identification corresponding to the first port according to the optical signal if the optical signal is received.