Optical Waveguide Layout Apparatus for Airplane Cabin Weight Reduction
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The weight of coaxial cables used in airplane communication systems contributes significantly to the overall weight of aircraft, necessitating the development of lighter transmission systems for improved efficiency and reduced weight.
Innovation Solution
A layout apparatus that incorporates a structural device with integrated signal adjustment and radio devices, enabling wireless communication by converting electrical antenna signals to optical signals and vice versa, utilizing optical waveguides to reduce cable weight and enhance flexibility in radio technology deployment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If coaxial cables are used to connect antennas to transmit systems in airplane cabins, then reliable signal transmission is achieved, but the weight of the transmission system increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/electrical coaxial cable transmission system with an optical transmission system using optical waveguides and electro-optical converters. This substitution eliminates the need for heavy coaxial cables while maintaining signal transmission capability through optical signals, directly resolving the weight issue without sacrificing reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces electro-optical converters as intermediary devices that bridge the electrical signal domain (radio systems) and the optical signal domain (optical waveguides). These converters enable the transition between signal types, allowing the system to benefit from both electrical signal processing and lightweight optical transmission
2Reliability
If coaxial cables with multilayer design are used to separate conductors, then signal interference is reduced, but the weight and complexity of the transmission system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the complex multilayer coaxial cable structure with a simpler optical waveguide system. The optical transmission medium inherently provides isolation between signals, eliminating the need for complex layered conductor arrangements and reducing both weight and structural complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The optical waveguide system serves multiple functions simultaneously: it transmits signals, provides electrical isolation, eliminates interference, and reduces weight. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require separate components in the coaxial cable design into a single simplified system
3Reliability
If antennas are installed remotely from transmit systems to provide good transmit prerequisites, then signal transmission quality is improved, but the routing complexity of coaxial cables increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the physical cable routing requirement with an optical waveguide-based transmission system. This allows antennas to be positioned optimally for signal transmission while eliminating the complex mechanical routing of coaxial cables through the airplane interior, as optical waveguides can be more flexibly integrated into the aircraft structure
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 reduces the weight of communication infrastructure within airplanes by using lighter optical waveguides, allows for modular and adaptable radio technology integration, and supports multiple radio systems without altering the structural layout, thereby enhancing communication efficiency and reducing maintenance complexity.
Implementation Method 1
The first signal adjustment device may be equipped for the electrical-optical conversion of an antenna signal
Data Source
AI summary
A layout apparatus for communicating includes, but is not limited to, a structural device, a first signal adjustment device and a radio device. The structural device is designed for configuring the layout of a room, and the first signal adjustment device is adapted for the electrical-optical conversion of an antenna signal. Furthermore, the first signal adjustment device and the radio device are arranged in the structural device, and the radio device is connected to the first signal adjustment device in such a manner that the antenna signal can be transmitted and/or received as a radio signal.