Optical Module Connector for Long-Reach Power Delivery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional Power over Ethernet (PoE) systems are limited in range and power capacity, requiring local power sources for distances beyond a few meters and inadequate for high-power devices, and fiber optic cabling necessitates separate power supply.
Innovation Solution
Power delivery through an optical system using fiber cabling, enabling extended reach (up to 10 km) and higher power levels (up to several kilowatts) by integrating power transmission with fiber optics, employing modified optical transceivers and connectors to deliver pulse power.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If conventional PoE systems are used, then power delivery is simple and reliable, but the transmission distance is limited to about 100 meters and power capacity is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines optical fiber communication and electrical power delivery into a single integrated cable system. The cable includes both optical fibers for data transmission and copper conductors for power delivery, allowing simultaneous transmission of data and power over extended distances beyond conventional PoE limits while maintaining a unified connection interface
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an optical transceiver device as an intermediary that converts electrical power signals to optical signals for transmission through the fiber optic cable. This mediator enables power delivery over distances much greater than conventional PoE by using light transmission through fibers, then converting back to electrical power at the receiving end
2Length of stationary object
If fiber optic cables are used for data transmission, then transmission distance is extended, but separate power supply is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges fiber optic data transmission and electrical power delivery into a single cable assembly. The cable structure integrates optical fibers and copper conductors together, allowing both data and power to be transmitted through the same physical medium, eliminating the need for separate power supplies at remote locations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal cable system that performs multiple functions: optical fiber strands transmit data signals while copper conductors within the same cable transmit electrical power. This multi-functional cable eliminates the need for separate power infrastructure and simplifies installation by providing both data and power through a single connection
3Power
If conventional PoE systems are used, then installation is simple, but power capacity is inadequate for high-power devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the electrical resistance-based power delivery system (conventional PoE over copper) with an optical transmission system for power delivery. By using optical transceivers to convert power to light signals and transmit through fibers, the system overcomes the power capacity limits of conventional PoE and can deliver much higher power levels over extended distances
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 power delivery to network devices beyond traditional PoE limits, supporting high-power equipment without local power distribution, facilitating IoT applications and reducing infrastructure needs.
Implementation Method 1
transmitting data and power in the optical domain
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus includes a connector for coupling a cable comprising at least one optical fiber and at least one electrical wire to an optical module at a network communications device, the connector comprising an electrical contact plate for engagement with an electrical contact on the optical module, and a ferrule for receiving the at least one optical fiber. The electrical contact plate is configured for electrically coupling the at least one electrical wire to the electrical contact on the optical module for delivery of power through the optical module.