Optical Traceable Patch Cord for High-Density Tracing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
In high-density patching applications, it is challenging to identify and trace the ends of optical fiber patch cords due to their compact arrangement, requiring specialized equipment and complex connections, which complicates the process of determining which connector corresponds to another across a distance.
Innovation Solution
An optically traceable patch cord with a trace assembly and optical tracing fiber that emits light from one end and is detectable at the other, allowing for visual or sensor-based identification of the corresponding connector, even in densely packed environments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If copper trace assembly is used in optical fiber patch cord, then electrical signal transmission is enabled, but specialized testing equipment with electric power and light source is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the electrical tracing mechanism with an optical tracing mechanism. Instead of using copper wires and electrical signals that require power sources and specialized testing equipment, the invention uses an optical fiber trace assembly that transmits light signals through the patch cord. This substitution eliminates the need for complex electrical testing equipment while maintaining the tracing functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts and removes the copper trace assembly from the optical fiber patch cord construction. By eliminating the copper wiring and associated electrical tracing components, the patent simplifies the overall system and removes the dependency on specialized electrical testing equipment, keeping only the essential optical fiber trace assembly.
2Area of stationary object
If connectors are plugged in high density application, then space utilization is improved, but optical tracing becomes difficult due to limited access
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism - the optical fiber trace assembly that runs alongside the main optical fibers within the patch cord itself. This intermediary trace path allows light to be transmitted through the cord body without requiring access to the connectors, enabling tracing operations even when connectors are densely plugged in and inaccessible.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention shifts the tracing operation from the connector end interface to the cable body dimension. Instead of attempting to connect tracing equipment to crowded connector interfaces, the optical trace assembly provides an alternative path through the cable interior, moving the tracing function to a different spatial dimension where access is not constrained by connector density.
3Area of stationary object
If patch cords are arranged in high density, then area efficiency is improved, but identification of corresponding connectors becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes light transmission through the optical fiber trace assembly to provide visual indication of connector correspondence. By transmitting light through the trace assembly and observing the light output at the other end, users can visually trace and identify which connectors are paired, effectively using optical signal presence/absence as an identification mechanism in high-density environments.
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
Facilitates easy and efficient identification of patch cord ends, reducing the complexity of tracing in high-density applications and eliminating the need for extensive testing equipment, while being compatible with standard connectors and manufacturing processes.
Implementation Method 1
An optical fiber extends from the trace assembly towards the second end of the cable
Data Source
AI summary
An optically traceable patch cord includes a cable extending from a first connector at a first end to a second connector at a second end. A trace assembly in the cable is located between the first end of the cable and the second end of the cable. An optical tracing fiber extends from the trace assembly to one of the first connector and the second connector.