Optical Test Device With RFID-Recognized Connector Adapters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical test devices require multiple units to accommodate different types of optical-fiber cables, leading to increased device count and operational complexity, and extension cables with different connectors do not allow the use of the preferred one-cord reference method, resulting in higher measurement uncertainty.
Innovation Solution
A connector adapter that removably connects to an optical test device, allowing it to test optical-fiber cables with different numbers of fibers and connector types, featuring a processing unit that adjusts test parameters and interfaces based on the adapter type, including RFID detection for automatic recognition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple test devices are used to accommodate different types of optical-fiber cables, then the ability to test various cable types is improved, but the device count and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The test device is designed with a universal test port that can accommodate different connector types (LC, SC, ST, MPO, etc.) through a standardized interface, allowing a single device to perform multiple testing functions across various cable types without requiring separate dedicated devices for each connector type
Solution Approach 2:
An adapter mechanism serves as an intermediary component that interfaces between the universal test port and different connector types. This adapter allows the test device to connect to various optical-fiber cable connectors while maintaining a standardized connection point, effectively mediating between the fixed test device interface and variable cable connector types
2Adaptability or versatility
If extension cables with different cable ends and connectors are used to test different cable types, then the versatility is improved, but the measurement uncertainty increases due to inability to use one-cord reference method
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter acts as a stable intermediary component with a standardized interface that maintains consistent optical alignment and connection geometry. This standardized mediation point enables the use of the one-cord reference method by providing a fixed reference plane, thereby maintaining measurement precision while enabling versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the interface parameter (connector type) while maintaining the fundamental measurement methodology. By keeping the test port and reference method consistent and only changing the adapter interface, the measurement parameters remain stable, allowing the one-cord reference method to be used across different connector types without increasing uncertainty
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 a single optical test device to efficiently test various optical-fiber cables with reduced device count and measurement uncertainty by adapting test parameters and interfaces, minimizing human intervention and configuration errors.
Implementation Method 1
RFID detection for automatic recognition
Data Source
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AI summary
An optical test device, in combination with a removable connector adapter, is provided. A method of testing an optical fiber is also provided. The test device comprises a test port configured to interface with optical-fiber cables having a given number of optical fibers. The connector adapter comprises a device connector adapted to connect to test port; and a fiber-under-test (FUT) connector adapted connect to an optical-fiber cable, such as a test cord connectable to the FUT. The FUT connector is configured to interface with optical-fiber cables having a number of fibers that is different from the number of fibers of the test port. The optical test device comprises a processing unit configurable to adjust the tests to be conducted based on the connector adapter detected, and to adapt the user interfaces and test parameters accordingly.