Optical Connector Port Indication for Wavelength-Based Cable Matching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Connecting devices in a communication system is difficult due to visually identical connectors and cables, leading to time-consuming and error-prone interconnections, especially in systems using wavelength division multiplexing where incorrect cable connections result in signal loss.
Innovation Solution
A communication device comprising a wireless device with connector ports, visible indicator devices, and short-range wireless communication circuitry to provide clear visual guidance by activating visible indicator devices based on signal characteristics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If physical labels are used to identify connector ports and cables, then identification information is provided, but the labels are small and difficult to read, leading to connection errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies color-coded indicators (LEDs or other visual elements) adjacent to connector ports that change color or illuminate to indicate the correct cable connection. This visual signaling system replaces or supplements small physical labels, making it immediately obvious which cable should connect to which port, thereby resolving the contradiction between providing identification information and maintaining ease of operation.
2Reliability
If wireless communication circuitry and visual indicators are added to guide cable connections, then connection accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual inspection and physical label reading with an automated wireless communication system. The wireless circuitry automatically detects cable identifiers (via RFID, NFC, or other wireless tags) and activates corresponding visual indicators to guide connection. This substitution of mechanical/manual processes with automated electronic systems improves connection accuracy while the modular nature of the added components keeps the complexity increase manageable.
3Productivity
If engineers manually identify and match connectors and cables, then connections can be made, but the process is time-consuming and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-guiding connection system where the device itself provides the identification and matching information through wireless communication and visual indicators. The system automatically identifies which cable should connect to which port and displays this information clearly, eliminating the need for engineers to manually trace cables or interpret small labels. This self-service approach simultaneously improves connection speed by providing immediate guidance and reliability by reducing human error.
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure provides, inter alia, a communication device comprising: a plurality of connector ports for receiving corresponding connectors affixed to cables carrying optical signals, the plurality of connector ports comprising a first connector port configured to receive optical signals having a first value for a signal characteristic, and a second connector port configured to receive optical signals having a second value for the signal characteristic; a plurality of visible indicator devices associated with the connector ports, the plurality of visible indicator devices comprising a first visible indicator device located adjacent to the first connector port, and a second visible indicator device located adjacent to the second connector port; and short-range wireless communication circuitry configured to: receive, from a short-range wireless communication device, an indication of a value of the signal characteristic for a communication signal carried by a cable; and, responsive to a determination that the indicated value for the signal characteristic corresponds to the first value, activate the first visible indicator device.