Portable Field Light Generator for Real-Time Splice Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fiber optic cable installation methods fail to effectively test splices and couplings during the installation process, leading to potential faults being detected only at the end of the project, when repairs are more difficult.
Innovation Solution
A portable field light generator system is deployed on one end of a fiber optic cable, with a light receiver on the other end, allowing real-time validation of light transmission through the cable, enabling detection of faults during installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If fiber optic cables are installed by splicing sections together, then longer communication distances are achieved, but splice faults are difficult to detect until the end of the project
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary testing of fiber optic splices during the installation process itself, rather than waiting until the end of the project. The light generator and light receiver are used to test each splice as it is created, allowing faults to be detected and corrected immediately while the installation crew is still on site.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a portable light generator and light receiver as intermediary testing devices that can be temporarily connected to the fiber optic cable during installation. These intermediary devices enable fault detection without requiring the complete installation to be finished, bridging the gap between installation progress and comprehensive testing.
2Productivity
If splice testing is delayed until the end of installation, then installation speed is maintained, but repair difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary testing of fiber optic splices during the installation process itself, rather than waiting until the end of the project. The light generator and light receiver are used to test each splice as it is created, allowing faults to be detected and corrected immediately while the installation crew is still on site.
3Reliability
If a portable field light generator is deployed, then real-time fault detection is enabled, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The testing system is segmented into two separate portable components: a light generator that can be deployed at one end of the fiber optic cable and a light receiver that can be deployed at the other end. This segmentation allows the system to be used in field conditions without requiring complex centralized testing equipment, and each component can be independently transported and operated.
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 real-time detection of faults in fiber optic splices and couplings, allowing for immediate repair and ensuring the integrity of the communication system as it is installed.
Implementation Method 1
a light source operably coupled to the power supply, wherein the light source is configured to output light through the optical fiber assembly into the proximal end of the fiber optic cable
Data Source
AI summary
An example test system for fiber optic cable installation includes a light receiver configured to be deployed on a distal end of a fiber optic cable; a field light generator configured to be deployed on a proximal end of the fiber optic cable, the field light generator comprising: a power supply; an optical fiber assembly configured to couple to the proximal end of the fiber optic cable; and a light source operably coupled to the power supply, where the light source is configured to output light through the optical fiber assembly into the proximal end of the fiber optic cable.