RFID Transponder Activation for Fiber Optic Connection Identification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current RFID systems for fiber optic networks face challenges in accurately identifying connections and conditions due to proximity-dependent operation, leading to inaccurate readings and increased complexity in managing large networks, especially when partial connections or multiple components are involved, requiring disconnection for identification and potentially causing service disruptions.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing RFID transponders with activatable contact points and condition responsive devices that allow for precise identification of connections between components, enabling reliable and unobtrusive mapping of network components by activating transponders upon physical contact or condition detection, such as insertion or voltage changes, allowing for identification without disrupting the network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If RFID transponders are attached to plugs and sockets for identification, then information about cable, plug, and socket can be obtained, but accurate identification becomes difficult when multiple components are in proximity due to signal interference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces contact points as an intermediary mechanism between the plug and socket RFID transponders. When the plug is inserted into the socket, the contact points establish electrical connection that enables or modifies the RFID signal transmission, allowing accurate identification of the connected pair while preventing interference from nearby unconnected components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameter of the RFID transponders from continuous transmission to conditional activation based on physical connection status. The transponders are activated or deactivated based on whether contact points are engaged, transforming the identification system from proximity-based to connection-based operation, thereby eliminating signal interference from nearby components.
2Measurement precision
If RFID readers are used to identify connected components, then connection information can be obtained, but the system requires disconnection of components for accurate identification, causing service disruptions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-attaching RFID transponders to both plugs and sockets during manufacturing. The transponders are prepared in advance with their identification information, so when connection occurs, the identification is immediately available without requiring disconnection or additional setup actions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables self-service identification where the connected plug and socket automatically provide their own identification information through their RFID transponders when contact points are engaged. The system identifies connections autonomously without requiring external intervention or disconnection of components, maintaining continuous service while providing accurate identification.
3Loss of time
If proximity-based RFID reading is used, then quick identification is possible, but inaccurate readings occur when plugs are partially inserted or multiple components are near each other
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/proximity-based RFID reading system with an electrical connection-based system. Instead of relying on the physical proximity of the RFID reader to the transponder, the system uses the electrical connection through contact points to activate and enable RFID communication, ensuring that only properly connected components can be identified, thereby eliminating inaccurate readings from partial insertions or nearby components.
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
This solution provides simple, reliable, and accurate identification of components and their conditions within fiber optic networks, reducing the need for disconnection and minimizing service disruptions, while enabling efficient troubleshooting and maintenance by correlating unique identification numbers with component information.
Implementation Method 1
RFID transponders (comprising an antenna and an RFID integrated circuit chip) have been attached to plugs and sockets for use in identification. The RFID integrated circuit chip stores information for RF communication.
Implementation Method 2
a condition responsive device associated with either the plug or the socket and a condition generating device associated with the other of the plug or socket such that at least one of the plug RFID transponder and the socket RFID transponder is activatable when the condition responsive device detects the condition generated by the condition generating device
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided a system for identifying a connection of two or more components in which one or more RFID transponders are associated with the two or more components. A plug is associated with the first component, such as a fiber optic connector, and a socket is associated with the second component, such as a fiber optic adapter. An RFID transponder is associated with each component and at least one of the RFID transponders is activatable when the plug is received by the socket to enable the activated RFID transponder to communicate with the RFID reader. The antennas and integrated circuit chips that define the RFID transponders are positioned relative to the plug and socket to enable the one or more RFID transponders to activate when the plug is received by the socket. In addition, the RFID transponders may communicate with one another to identify other RFID transponders in order to communicate identities of two or more RFID transponders.