U.S. patent application number 17/536631 was filed with the patent office on 2022-05-26 for optical power detector and reader.
This patent application is currently assigned to COMMSCOPE TECHNOLOGIES LLC. The applicant listed for this patent is COMMSCOPE TECHNOLOGIES LLC. Invention is credited to Joseph Christopher COFFEY, Morgan C. KURK, Joseph POLLAND, Trevor D. SMITH, Steven C. ZIMMEL.
Application Number | 20220163424 17/536631 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000006124873 |
Filed Date | 2022-05-26 |
United States Patent
Application |
20220163424 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
COFFEY; Joseph Christopher ;
et al. |
May 26, 2022 |
OPTICAL POWER DETECTOR AND READER
Abstract
An optical power detection system comprises a sensor and a
reader. The sensor is configured to detect light in the cladding of
an optical fiber. The sensor is positioned both within a ferrule of
the optical fiber and proximate the cladding. The sensor is
additionally configured to produce an output signal representative
of the detected light. The reader is electrically coupled to the
sensor and is configured to receive the sensor output signal. The
reader is additionally configured to operation on the output signal
to produce a corresponding visual and/or audible indication of the
optical power in the optical fiber.
Inventors: |
COFFEY; Joseph Christopher;
(Burnsville, MN) ; ZIMMEL; Steven C.;
(Minneapolis, MN) ; POLLAND; Joseph; (Eden
Prairie, MN) ; KURK; Morgan C.; (Sachse, TX) ;
SMITH; Trevor D.; (Eden Prairie, MN) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
COMMSCOPE TECHNOLOGIES LLC |
Hickory |
NC |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
COMMSCOPE TECHNOLOGIES LLC
Hickory
NC
|
Family ID: |
1000006124873 |
Appl. No.: |
17/536631 |
Filed: |
November 29, 2021 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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16073544 |
Jul 27, 2018 |
11187616 |
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PCT/US2017/015410 |
Jan 27, 2017 |
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17536631 |
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62288296 |
Jan 28, 2016 |
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62306832 |
Mar 11, 2016 |
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62316759 |
Apr 1, 2016 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G02B 6/4286 20130101;
G02B 6/3825 20130101; G01M 11/30 20130101; G02B 6/385 20130101;
G02B 6/00 20130101 |
International
Class: |
G01M 11/00 20060101
G01M011/00; G02B 6/38 20060101 G02B006/38; G02B 6/00 20060101
G02B006/00; G02B 6/42 20060101 G02B006/42 |
Claims
1. An optical power detection system comprising: a sensor
configured to detect light in the cladding of ferrule-less optical
fiber, the sensor positioned proximate the cladding, the sensor
additionally configured to produce an output signal representative
of the detected light; a reader electrically coupled to the sensor
and configured to receive the sensor output signal, the reader
additionally configured to operate on the output signal to produce
a corresponding visual and/or audible indication of optical power
in the optical fiber.
2. The system of claim 1, wherein the sensor comprises a
photodetector.
3. The system of claim 2, wherein the sensor comprises a PIN
photodiode.
4. The system of claim 1, wherein the sensor is parallel to the
axis of the optical fiber.
5. The system of claim 1, wherein a housing is mounted about the
optical fiber and the sensor.
6. The system of claim 5, wherein the housing comprises an optical
connector, an optical converter, or an optical adapter.
7. (canceled)
8. The system of claim 5, wherein the reader comprises an apparatus
independent from the sensor and housing.
9. The system of claim 8, wherein the sensor has an electrical
interface that is mounted on an exterior surface of the
housing.
10. The system of claim 9, wherein the electrical interface
comprises an electrical lead coupled between an electrical contact
and the sensor.
11. The system of claim 10, wherein the electrical lead includes
slack to accommodate movement of the optical fiber.
12. The system of claim 9, wherein the reader has an electrical
interface configured to cooperate with the electrical interface of
the sensor to establish electrical coupling between the reader and
the sensor.
13. The system of claim 5, wherein the housing is additionally
mounted about the reader.
14. The system of claim 1, wherein the reader includes a wireless
transmitter configured to transmit data about the optical power in
the optical fiber.
15. The system of claim 14, wherein the data includes one or more
of an on/off status of the optical power, an optical power level, a
wavelength of the optical power, and a direction of transmission of
the optical power.
16. The system of claim 14, wherein the wireless transmitter is
additionally configured to transmit an identifier unique to the
optical fiber.
17. The system of claim 1, wherein the reader includes a display
screen.
18. The system of claim 1, wherein the reader and sensor are
powered by an energy harvesting device.
19. The system of claim 18, wherein the energy harvesting device
harvests one or more of optical, mechanical, thermal or kinetic
energy.
20. The system of claim 1, wherein the light in the cladding of the
optical fiber is reflected to the sensor with by a mirror formed
within the optical fiber.
21.-42. (canceled)
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 16/073,544, filed on Jul. 27, 2018, which is a
National Stage Application of PCT/US2017/015410, filed on Jan. 27,
2017, which claims the benefit of U.S. Patent Application Ser. No.
62/288,296, filed on Jan. 28, 2016, and claims the benefit of U.S.
Patent Application Ser. No. 62/306,832, filed on Mar. 11, 2016, and
claims the benefit of U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 62/316,759,
filed on Apr. 1, 2016, the disclosures of which are incorporated
herein by reference in their entireties. To the extent appropriate,
a claim of priority is made to each of the above disclosed
applications.
BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0002] Various types of tests are currently available for testing
the power of an optical fiber in a fiber optic cable. These tests
range from very simple to very sophisticated. For example, the
"flashlight" test is perhaps the simplest test. It requires
disconnecting the cable at both ends, then shining a visible light
source, e.g. a flashlight, into one end of the optical fiber then
checking to see if the light has traveled to the other end of the
optical fiber. This type of test does not tell how much light is
lost in the optical fiber or where a fault might be located within
the fiber.
[0003] Another type of test that may be performed on an optical
fiber is an attenuation test. This test indicates how much light is
actually lost within the optical fiber. To perform the attenuation
test, each end of the fiber optic cable is disconnected and then
coupled between a light source of known intensity and an optical
power meter. Upon transmission of the light from the light source,
the optical power meter is able to detect the amount of light
transmitted through the optical fiber. The difference between the
known intensity and the measurement of the optical power meter
indicates the loss, or attenuation, of the optical fiber.
[0004] Still another test for fiber optic power detection is
optical time domain reflectometer (OTDR) testing. The reflectometer
is a device that sends a short pulse of energy into a fiber optic
cable and measures how much of that energy is reflected back to it.
The time domain reflectometer displays the results of the reflected
energy relative to the amount of time elapsed between when the
pulse is sent and when the reflections are received. Viewing the
amount of reflected light received over time can help to determine
where a break in an optical fiber may have occurred.
[0005] While each of the above tests can provide valuable
information about fiber optic power, each requires the
disconnection of the fiber optic cable from its working
environment.
SUMMARY
[0006] In general terms, this disclosure is directed to systems and
methods for determining the optical power of an optical fiber.
[0007] In one aspect, the systems and methods are configured to
utilize a detector and a reader. The detector is positioned both
within a ferrule of the optical fiber and proximate the cladding of
the optical fiber in an orientation parallel to the axis of the
optical fiber. The ferrule is at least partially contained within a
housing that may comprise a connector (e.g. an LC or SC connector),
a converter, or an adapter. The light detected by the detector is
converted to a representative electrical signal and transmitted to
the reader, which is electrically coupled to the detector. Upon
receiving the signal, the reader operates on the signal by boosting
its level, converting it to a digital signal, and submitting the
digital signal to a microcontroller contained therein. The
microcontroller is configured to execute programmed instructions
causing it to operate on the digital signal and produce an output
signal representative of the optical power in the optical fiber.
The optical power signal may then be used to activate an indicator
or display of the reader, or the signal may be transmitted to
remote device via wireless transmission. The microcontroller may
additionally be programmed to determine an optical power level in
the optical fiber, a wavelength of the light in the optical fiber,
and/or a direction of transmission of the light in the optical
fiber. The detector and reader may be configured to be powered by
an energy harvesting device. The power detection may be performed
non-intrusively, e.g., without having to remove the optical fiber
from its normal working environment.
[0008] One aspect of the disclosure is directed to an optical power
detection system comprising a sensor and a reader. The sensor is
configured to detect light in the cladding of an optical fiber. The
sensor is positioned both within a ferrule of the optical fiber and
proximate the cladding. The sensor is additionally configured to
produce an output signal representative of the detected light. The
reader is electrically coupled to the sensor and is configured to
receive the sensor output signal. The reader is additionally
configured to operate on the output signal to produce a
corresponding visual and/or audible indication of the optical power
in the optical fiber.
[0009] Another aspect of the disclosure is directed to a method for
detecting optical power. The method comprises: (a) detecting light
from a cladding of an optical fiber from a position both within a
ferrule of the optical fiber and proximate the cladding; (b)
producing a first signal representative of the detected light; (3)
receiving the first signal and operating on the first signal to
produce a corresponding second signal representative of the optical
power in the optical fiber; and transmitting the second signal to
activate an audio and/or visual indicator to indicate the optical
power.
[0010] Another aspect of the disclosure is directed to an optical
power detection system comprising a housing, a photodetector, and a
reader. The photodetector is contained within the housing and is
configured to detect light in a cladding of an optical fiber. The
optical fiber is at least partially contained within the housing.
The photodetector is positioned both within a ferrule of the
optical fiber and proximate the cladding. Further, the
photodetector is oriented parallel to the axis of the optical
fiber. The photodetector is configured to produce a first output
signal representative of the detected light. The reader is
electrically coupled to the photodetector and includes a
microcontroller. The reader is configured to receive the first
output signal while the microcontroller is configured to execute
program instructions causing the reader to perform: (a) operating
on the first output signal to produce a corresponding second output
signal representative of the optical power in the optical fiber;
and (b) transmitting the second signal to activate an audio and/or
visual indicator to indicate the optical power.
[0011] Still another aspect of the disclosure is directed to a
light sensing unit adapted to be mounted at a subscriber location.
The light sensing unit includes a first port, a second port, a
light sensor, and a push button energy harvesting device. The first
port is adapted to receive a connectorized end of a first optical
fiber coupled to a service provide location. The second port is
adapted to receive a connectorized end of a second optical fiber
routed into the subscriber location, wherein the connectorized ends
of the first and second optical fibers are optically coupled when
inserted in the first and second ports. The light sensor is adapted
to detect whether an optical signal is being provided from the
service provider through the first fiber. The push button energy
harvesting device is adapted to power the light sensor.
[0012] Still another aspect of the disclosure is directed to an
optical power detection system having an optical fiber housing, a
sensor and a processing device. The optical fiber housing is
adapted to at least partially surround an end of an optical fiber.
The sensor is protected by the housing, and is adapted to detect
light in a cladding of the optical fiber produce a sensor output
representative of the detected light. The processing device is
embedded within the housing and is electrically coupled to the
sensor. The processing device is adapted to receive the sensor
output and generate a processor output based on the sensor output
that is representative of the detected light. The processing output
can be provided to a managed connectivity system and/or can be used
to operate an LED to provide an indication of the presence or
absence of detected light at the sensor.
[0013] Still another aspect of the disclosure is directed to an
optical power detection system comprising a ferrule-less connector,
an optical fiber and a sensor. The optical fiber extends through
the ferrule-less connector and includes a bare fiber portion that
includes a mirror to direct light laterally from a cladding of the
optical fiber. The sensor detects the laterally directed light.
[0014] Still another aspect of the disclosure is directed to an
optical power detection system comprising a sensor and a reader.
The sensor is configured to detect light in the cladding of an
optical fiber. The sensor is positioned over an opening within a
connector wherein the opening overlies a bare fiber portion of the
optical fiber. The sensor is additionally configured to produce an
output signal representative of the detected light. The reader is
coupled to the sensor and is configured to receive the sensor
output signal. The reader is additionally configured to operate on
the output signal to produce an output representative of the amount
of power in the optical fiber.
[0015] The above summary is not intended to describe each
embodiment or every implementation. A more complete understanding
will become apparent and appreciated by referring to the following
detailed description and claims in conjunction with the
accompanying drawings.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0016] FIG. 1A is a schematic of an example embodiment of a
ferrule-based optical power detector and reader in a connector
configuration.
[0017] FIG. 1B is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B in
FIG. 1A.
[0018] FIG. 2 is a schematic of an example embodiment of an optical
power reader.
[0019] FIG. 3 is a schematic of an example embodiment of a
ferrule-based optical power detector and reader in a converter
configuration.
[0020] FIG. 4 is a schematic of an example embodiment of a
ferrule-based optical power detector and reader in an adapter
configuration.
[0021] FIGS. 5A-5B are schematics of an example embodiment of an
active ferrule-based optical power detector and reader.
[0022] FIG. 5C is a schematic of the active ferrule-based optical
power detector and reader working in conjunction with a mobile
wireless device.
[0023] FIG. 6 is a schematic of an example embodiment of an optical
fiber incorporating a mirror to reflect light into the optical
power detector.
[0024] FIG. 7 is a schematic of a push button energy harvesting
device configured to power the optical power detector and
reader.
[0025] FIG. 8 is an exploded view of an LC connector.
[0026] FIG. 9 is an exploded view of an SC connector.
[0027] FIG. 10 is a schematic of an example embodiment of a
ferrule-based optical power detector.
[0028] FIG. 11 is a schematic of an example embodiment of a
ferrule-based optical power detector and a managed connectivity
panel.
[0029] FIGS. 12-15 are example electrical schematics of a power
detector.
[0030] FIG. 16A is cross-section of a ferrule-less optical fiber
connector.
[0031] FIG. 16B is the ferrule-less optical fiber connector of FIG.
16A including an optical power detector and reader.
[0032] FIG. 17A is a top view schematic of a plurality of optical
fibers and corresponding connectors that include an opening for
optical power detection.
[0033] FIG. 17B is a side view schematic of FIG. 17A that
additionally illustrates an optical power detector and reader.
[0034] The figures are not necessarily to scale. Like numbers used
in the figures refer to like components. However, it will be
understood that the use of a number to refer to a component in a
given figure is not intended to limit the component in another
figure labeled with the same number.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0035] The present disclosure is directed to an optical power
detector and reader. In certain embodiments, the optical power
detector includes a photodetector positioned within a ferrule that
substantially surrounds the cladding of an optical fiber; a housing
is provided about the ferrule. The photodetector is provided with
an electrical interface, optionally via the housing, that enables
the photodetector to be electrically coupled to the reader, which
is provided with a cooperative electrical interface. Upon
electrical coupling of the power detector and the reader, the
photodetector is configured to detect light in the optical fiber
and transmit a signal representative of the detected light to the
reader. The reader utilizes the transmitted signal to determine a
presence and/or level of optical power in the optical fiber. In
certain embodiments, the housing or connector is provided about a
ferrule-less optical fiber with the photodetector mounted on or
within the housing/connector and positioned proximate the core
and/or the cladding of the optical fiber from which the
photodetector may detect light; the photodetector then transmits a
signal representative of the detected light to the reader. In
certain embodiments, the connector includes an opening providing
optical access to an underlying optical fiber from which light can
be detected by a remotely located photodetector whose signal can be
transmitted to the reader.
[0036] FIG. 1A provides an example embodiment of a ferrule-based
optical power detector 100 and a reader 102 in a connector 103
configuration. The detector 100 generally comprises an optical
fiber 104, a ferrule 108, a housing 110, a photodetector 114, and
an electrical interface 115. As shown, the optical fiber 104, which
extends from an optical fiber cable 105, includes optical cladding
106 about an optical core 107 (see FIG. 1B). The ferrule 108
surrounds the cladding 106 and is biased in a forward direction by
a spring 109, which allows the ferrule 108 to move relative to the
housing 110 along a longitudinal axis. The housing 110 is provided
about the ferrule 108. In one example embodiment, the housing 110
comprises a connector body of an LC connector. In another example
embodiment, the housing 110 comprises a connector body and release
sleeve of an SC connector. Other housing configurations may be used
without departing from the spirit or scope of the disclosure.
[0037] A cavity 112, or groove, is etched or otherwise fabricated
within the ferrule 108 to expose a portion of the cladding 106.
Seated within the cavity 112, over the exposed portion of the
cladding 106, is the photodetector 114. In one example embodiment,
the photodetector 114 comprises a positive-intrinsic-negative (PIN)
photodiode that is used to detect optical energy. Alternatively,
other types of sensors may be used within the ferrule 108 to detect
other types of physical energy and produce a usable output signal
representative of that physical energy. However, in the context of
the photodetector embodiment, the photodetector 114 is fixedly
secured within the cavity 112 in a position substantially parallel
to the axis of the optical fiber 104. Further, the photodetector
114 is configured to be electrically coupled to the reader 102 via
the electrical interface 115. In one example embodiment, the
electrical interface 115 comprises a pair of electrical leads 116a
and 116b extending from the photodetector 114 to contacts 118a and
118b fixed on the outside of the housing 110. In another example
embodiment, the electrical leads 116a, 116b are provided with
slack, as shown in FIG. 1A, to accommodate the motion of the
ferrule 108 as it travels longitudinally. The slack may,
alternatively, be replaced with springs, slides or any type of
electrical connection that would accommodate movement between the
ferrule 108 and the housing 110. The fixed contacts 118a and 118b
provide an easily accessible access point for quickly coupling and
decoupling the independent reader 102.
[0038] The reader 102, shown in further detail in FIG. 2, generally
includes an electrical interface 202, an amplifier 208, an
analog-to-digital (A/D) converter 210, a microcontroller 212, a
power supply 214 and an I/O interface 216. The electrical interface
202 enables the reader 102 to be electrically coupled to the
photodetector 114. In one example embodiment, the electrical
interface 202 includes leads 204a, 204b extending to contacts 206a,
206b which are configured to work in cooperation with contacts
118a, 118b. The output of the photodetector 114 is received through
the electrical interface 202 and is provided to the amplifier
208.
[0039] The amplifier 208 boosts the output signal from the
photodetector 114 to a more usable level. In one example
embodiment, the amplifier 208 comprises a transimpedance amplifier
that is configured to boost the signal from the photodetector 114
and convert the photodetector's current output to a voltage. The
analog output signal from the amplifier 208 is provided to the A/D
converter 210, which converts the analog signal to a binary signal
for submission to the microcontroller 212.
[0040] The power supply 214 provides the power for the
microcontroller 212, the photodetector 114, as well as any outputs
activated by the microcontroller 212 via the I/O interface 216. The
outputs may include, but are not limited to, an LED indicator, an
LCD display indicator or other type of indicator capable of
indicating power in the optical fiber 104. In one example
embodiment, the power supply 214 comprises a battery contained
within the reader 102 itself for easy portability while in another
example embodiment the power supply 214 is external to the portable
reader 102. The reader 102 may include various other components to
enhance its operation. For example, the reader 102 may include a
solar cell 218, externally mounted on the reader 102, to charge a
battery power supply 214. Further, the reader 102 may include a
wireless transmitter (or transceiver) 220 for transmission of data
related to the power detected at the optical fiber 104. The
wireless transmissions may be in any known wireless technology but
are particularly suited to short-range, low-power, low-maintenance,
personal area networks like Bluetooth low energy (BLE), ZigBee,
ANT, etc. The inclusion of camera or scanner 222 in the reader 102,
e.g. for scanning a barcode, may also be beneficial.
[0041] In operation, light is transmitted through the optical fiber
104 while the optical fiber 104 is in its normal working
environment. In one example embodiment, a normal working
environment may find the optical fiber 104 connected, via housing
110, to a patch panel in a central office or data center. In
another example embodiment, a normal working environment may find
the optical fiber 104 connected, via housing 110, to a receptacle
in a home. Regardless, as the light is transmitted through the
fiber 104, a normal loss of light transmission into the cladding
106 occurs. Subsequently, upon electrically coupling the reader 102
to the power detector 100, the photodetector 114 is provided with
sufficient power to detect any small amount light that has been
lost into the cladding 106. The amount of light detected provides
an indication of optical power in the optical fiber 104. A signal
representative of this detected light is transmitted from the
photodetector 114 to the reader 102, where the signal is amplified
and converted to a binary signal.
[0042] The microcontroller 212 of the reader 102 is programmed to
operate on the binary signal (e.g., a digital word) and produce an
output representative of the detected optical power. In one example
embodiment, the microcontroller 212 is configured to output an
on/off indication through the lighting/non-lighting of an LED;
other types of visible and/or audible indicators may be used to
indicate an on/off status. In another example embodiment, the
microcontroller 212 is configured to operate on the binary signal
and produce detailed information about the actual power level
detected, about the frequency at which the light is being
transmitted (e.g. light transmitted at 1300 nm indicating a short
range transmission; light transmitted at 1550 nm indicating a long
range transmission), and/or about the direction of travel of the
light, e.g. incoming/outgoing. In one example embodiment, the
detailed information is displayed on an LCD screen housed by the
reader 102. In another example embodiment, the detailed information
is exported from the reader 102 by wired or wireless transmission
to a data receiver, e.g., central computer, laptop computer,
tablet, mobile device, etc.
[0043] FIG. 3 provides an example embodiment of a ferrule-based
optical power detector 300 and the reader 102 in a converter 303
configuration. The detector 300 generally comprises a section of
optical fiber 304, which is independent from an optical fiber
cable, a ferrule 308, a housing 310, a photodetector 314, and an
electrical interface 315. The optical fiber 304 includes optical
cladding 306 about an optical core (not shown). The ferrule 308
substantially surrounds the optical fiber 304 and the housing 310
is provided about the ferrule.
[0044] A cavity 312, or groove, is etched or otherwise fabricated
within the ferrule 308 to expose a portion of the cladding 306.
Seated within the cavity 312, over the exposed portion of the
cladding 306, is the photodetector 314. In one example embodiment,
the photodetector 314 comprises a positive-intrinsic-negative (PIN)
photodiode. The photodetector 314 is fixedly secured within the
cavity 312 in a position substantially parallel to the axis of the
section of the optical fiber 304 and is configured to be
electrically coupled to the reader 102 (see FIG. 2 and description
above) via an electrical interface 315. In one example embodiment,
the electrical interface 315 comprises a pair of electrical leads
316a and 316b extending from the photodetector 314 to contacts 318a
and 318b fixed on the outside of the housing 310. The fixed
contacts 318a and 318b provide an easily accessible access point
for quickly coupling and decoupling the independent reader 102.
[0045] The converter 303 is configured to convert a standard
connector 320, e.g., a connector without a power detector 300, to a
connector with a power detector 300. The converter 303 provides a
socket 322 that includes an alignment sleeve 323 for aligning a
ferrule 321 of the standard connector 320 to the ferrule 308 of the
converter 303. In one example embodiment, the standard connector
320 is an LC connector. In another example embodiment, the standard
connector 320 is an SC connector. The converter 303 may be
configured to interface with other types of connectors without
departing from the spirit or scope of the disclosure. In the
context of the converter 303, the type of optical fiber used as the
section of optical fiber 304 preferably matches the type of optical
fiber used in the standard connector. Alternatively, the converter
303 may further be used as an attenuator to alter the transmission
of light by comprising an optical fiber material different from
that used in the standard connector 320.
[0046] FIG. 4 provides an example embodiment of a ferrule-based
optical power detector 400 and the reader 102 in an adapter 403
configuration. The detector 400 generally comprises a section of
optical fiber 404, which is independent from an optical fiber
cable, a double-ended ferrule 408, a housing 410, a photodetector
414, and an electrical interface 415. The optical fiber 404
includes optical cladding 406 about an optical core (not shown).
The ferrule 408 substantially surrounds the optical fiber 404 and
the housing 410 is provided about the ferrule.
[0047] A cavity 412, or groove, is etched or otherwise fabricated
within the ferrule 408 to expose a portion of the cladding 406.
Seated within the cavity 412, over the exposed portion of the
cladding 406, is the photodetector 414. In one example embodiment,
the photodetector 414 comprises a positive-intrinsic-negative (PIN)
photodiode. The photodetector 414 is fixedly secured within the
cavity 412 in a position substantially parallel to the axis of the
section of the optical fiber 404 and is configured to be
electrically coupled to the reader 102 (see FIG. 2 and description
above) via an electrical interface 415. In one example embodiment,
the electrical interface 415 comprises a pair of electrical leads
416a and 416b extending from the photodetector 414 to contacts 418a
and 418b on the outside of the housing 410.
[0048] The adapter 403 is configured to provide optical power
detection at a point where two standard connectors 420 are joined,
e.g., a patch panel. The adapter 403 provides a socket 422 at each
end. The socket 422 includes an alignment sleeve 423 for aligning a
ferrule 421 of the standard connector 420 to the ferrule 408 of the
adapter 403. The standard connectors 420, e.g., connectors without
a power detector 400, may comprise, for example, LC connectors or
SC connectors. The adaptor 403 may be configured to interface with
other types of connectors without departing from the spirit or
scope of the disclosure. In the context of the adapter 403, the
type of optical fiber used as the section of optical fiber 404
preferably matches the type of optical fiber used in the standard
connectors 420. Alternatively, the adapter 403 may further be used
as an attenuator to alter the transmission of light by comprising
an optical fiber material different from that used in the standard
connector 420. Note that in comparison to standard adapters,
adapter 403 may be lengthened to accommodate the detector 400.
[0049] While the above, described embodiments of optical power
detectors may be deemed passive, e.g., they require coupling with
the reader to become active, FIGS. 5A-5B illustrate an active
embodiment of a ferrule-based optical power detector 500 and a
reader 502. The power detector 500 and reader 502 are shown in the
context of a connector 503 but may be equally implemented in a
converter or adapter context.
[0050] Similar to the embodiments described above, the detector 500
generally comprises an optical fiber 504, a ferrule 508, a housing
510, a photodetector 514, and an electrical interface 515. As
shown, the optical fiber 504, which extends from an optical fiber
cable 505, includes optical cladding 506 about an optical core (not
shown). The ferrule 508, which is biased by a spring 509, surrounds
the cladding 506. The housing 510 is provided about the ferrule
508. In one example embodiment, the housing 510 comprises a
connector body of an LC connector. In another example embodiment,
the housing 510 comprises a connector body and release sleeve of an
SC connector. Other housing configurations may be used without
departing from the spirit or scope of the disclosure.
[0051] A cavity 512, or groove, is etched or otherwise fabricated
within the ferrule 508 to expose a portion of the cladding 506.
Seated within the cavity 512, over the exposed portion of the
cladding 506, is the photodetector 514. In one example embodiment,
the photodetector 514 comprises a positive-intrinsic-negative (PIN)
photodiode. The photodetector 514 is fixedly secured within the
cavity 512 in a position substantially parallel to the axis of the
optical fiber 504 and is configured to be electrically coupled to
the reader 502 via an electrical interface 515. In one example
embodiment, the electrical interface 515 comprises a pair of
electrical leads 516a and 516b extending from the photodetector 514
to the reader 502. In another example embodiment, the electrical
leads 516a, 516b are provided with slack to accommodate the motion
of the biasing spring 509.
[0052] In contrast to the embodiments previously described, the
elements of the reader 102 are not contained in an apparatus
independent from the detector 500 but are configured as a
system-on-a-chip (SOC) reader 502 and incorporated into the housing
510. The reader 502, shown in further detail in FIG. 5B, generally
includes an electrical interface 503, an amplifier 508, an
analog-to-digital (A/D) converter 510, a microcontroller 512, a
power supply 514, an I/O interface 516 and a wireless transmitter
(or transceiver) 520. The electrical interface 502 enables the
reader 502 to be electrically coupled to the photodetector 514. The
output of the photodetector 514 is received through the electrical
interface 502 and is provided to the amplifier 508.
[0053] The amplifier 508 boosts the output signal from the
photodetector 514 to a more usable level. In one example
embodiment, the amplifier 508 comprises a transimpedance amplifier
that is configured to boost the signal from the photodetector 514
and convert the photodetector's current output to a voltage. The
analog output signal from the amplifier 508 is provided to the A/D
converter 510, which converts the analog signal to a binary signal
for submission to the microcontroller 512.
[0054] The power supply 514 comprises a battery that is charged
with energy harvested by a solar cell 518 mounted on an external
surface of the housing 510. The solar cell 518 is able to harvest
sufficient energy such that the power supply 514 is able to power
the microcontroller 512, the photodetector 514, the wireless
transmitter 520, as well as any outputs activated by the
microcontroller 512 via the I/O interface 516. The outputs may
include, but are not limited to, an LED indicator (e.g., LED 517),
an LCD display indicator or other type of indicator capable of
indicating power in the optical fiber 504. The wireless transmitter
520, under direction of the microcontroller 512, is configured to
transmit data related to the power detected at the optical fiber
504. The wireless transmissions may be in any known wireless
technology but are particularly suited to short-range, low-power,
low-maintenance, personal area networks like Bluetooth low energy
(BLE), ZigBee, ANT, etc. that support Internet-of-Things (IoT)
devices.
[0055] In one example embodiment, the wireless transmission is
configured from the reader 502 in the connector 503 to contain a
unique identification (ID) code derived from a barcode attached to
the optical connector, converter, adapter or cable thereby giving
each optical cable a unique identification. The unique ID code and
barcode are paired, and the resulting paired data is stored in
firmware of the microcontroller 512 at the time of manufacture of
the detector 500 and reader 502. Accordingly, subsequent
transmissions from the wireless transmitter 520 include the ID
code, barcode, and/or paired data for identification purposes and
may additionally include other pertinent data such as the highest,
lowest, and/or current sensor measurement, power levels, optical
transmission wavelength, and/or direction of optical transmission
at the optical fiber 504. The wireless transmissions may be
received by a corresponding data receiver, e.g., central computer,
laptop computer, tablet, mobile device, etc.
[0056] In another example embodiment, see FIG. 5C, a mobile device
522 is configured to use a software application 524 to pair the
unique ID code of the transmitter 520 to a barcode 526 affixed to
each connector 503 (or converter, or adapter). Upon pairing, the
operator is able to view on the mobile device 522 any data coming
from the specific, paired connector 503a while ignoring broadcasts
from adjacent connectors 503b, 503c, and 503d; a convenience in the
environment of a high density patch panel 532. In still another
example embodiment, upon pairing, the software application 524 is
configured to automatically open a display page, via the software
app 524, to display detector 500/reader 502 data in near real time.
In still another example embodiment, the unique ID code of the
transmitter and the barcode 526, can be additionally paired to a
panel identifier 533 on the patch panel 532
[0057] The ferrule-based optical power detector 500 and a reader
502 are suitable for numerous applications but are especially
suited to applications where optical cables are secured in
cabinets, e.g. a dark environment containing high density patch
panels, for an extended period of time. The dark environment
prevents energy harvesting by the solar cell 518 and maintains the
detector 500 and the reader 502 in a substantially zero energy
usage, sleep mode. When the door to the cabinet is open, light is
detected and harvested by the solar cell 518 enabling the detector
500 and reader 502 to "wake-up" for normal operation to provide a
on/off indication of optical power or detailed information
regarding power levels, transmission wavelength, and/or direction
of optical transmission at the optical fiber 504.
[0058] The embodiments described above have utilized a
configuration wherein a portion of a ferrule is removed to expose a
portion of underlying cladding from which a photodetector may
detect optical energy lost into the cladding. An alternative
embodiment, see FIG. 6, provides for a configuration wherein an
optical fiber 600, including core 602 and cladding 604, further
includes an area 606 having an index of refraction different from
the optical fiber 600. The area 606, and its different index of
refraction, is created by first masking the fiber 600 to define the
area. The area is then exposed, at an angle, to a UV light. The
resulting area 606 is at an angle to the core 602 whereby a weakly
reflecting dielectric mirror is established. The mirror reflects
optical energy to a photodetector 608, whose signal can be
transmitted to a reader, e.g., reader 102. Thus, the detector
detects reflected light rather than the light lost into the
cladding. The mirror can be alternatively, or additionally, created
by writing a tilted fiber Bragg grating in the fiber. The Bragg
grating comprises many closely spaced changes in the index of
refraction made with UV light exposure on a photosensitive optical
fiber. The Bragg grating forms a dielectric mirror in this
application.
[0059] In some of the embodiments described above, energy
harvesting is used to power the components of the detector and
reader, e.g., detector 500 and reader 502. In an example embodiment
described above, light energy is harvested by a solar cell to
charge a battery. However, it should be noted that other types of
energy may be harvested and used to power the components of the
detector and reader without departing from the spirit or scope of
the disclosure. For example, mechanical, thermal, and kinetic
energy may be harvested.
[0060] FIG. 7 illustrates a pushbutton energy harvesting device
that may replace the solar cell of FIG. 5 As shown in FIG. 7, the
detector and reader of FIG. 5 are incorporated into an adapter 700
configuration. The adapter 700 is provided with a socket 742a, 742b
at each end, with each socket including an alignment sleeve 743a,
743b. The alignment sleeve 743a of socket 742a serves to align the
ferrule 744 of the connector 745 that provides an optical signal
from a service provider 746. The alignment sleeve 743b of socket
742b serves to align the ferrule 747 of a connector 748 that is
coupled to, for example, an in-home fiber optic network. The
adapter 700 is mounted at a receptacle 702, e.g., a wall receptacle
one might find in a home setting, and an energy harvesting push
button switch 704 is positioned at or near the receptacle 702 such
that the energy produced by the switch 704 may be fed to the
detector 500 and reader. For example, the push button switch 704
may be provided on a wall panel, a faceplate, or a wall-mounted
enclosure. Accordingly, in a scenario where a homeowner wishes test
for power at the adapter 700, the homeowner may depress the
pushbutton switch 704. In doing so, sufficient mechanical energy is
harvested from movement of the switch 704 such that the detector
500 and reader 502 may be powered by the harvested energy to sense
optical power and provide a simple on/off indication, e.g. the
lighting/non-lighting of an LED 706 (which may be located proximate
the pushbutton switch 704 on a panel, faceplate, or wall-mounted
enclosure). Additional information about energy harvesting push
buttons may be found in U.S. Patent Application Publication
US20150084440, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its
entirety.
[0061] FIG. 8 provides an exploded view of an LC connector 800. The
housing of the LC connector generally comprises the plug body 802,
the rear body 808, the boot 326. These housing elements comprise
elements to which the contacts, e.g., contacts 118a, 118b, contacts
318a, 318b, or contacts 418a, 418b, of the detector 100, 300, or
400 may be fixed. FIG. 8 also illustrates the ferrule 804 and the
biasing spring 806 of the LC connector.
[0062] FIG. 9 provides an exploded view of an SC connector 900. The
housing of the SC connector generally comprises the release sleeve
902, the connector body 905, which comprises the plug body 904 and
the rear body 910, and the boot 912. These housing elements
comprise elements to which the contacts, e.g., contacts 118a, 118b,
contacts 318a, 318b, or contacts 418a, 418b, of the detector 100,
300, or 400 may be fixed. The release sleeve 902 is configured to
slide a limited range relative to the plug body 904. The plug body
904 is configured to house the ferrule 906 and the spring 908. The
rear body 910 mates with the rear end of the plug body 904 and
operates to maintain the ferrule 906 and the spring 908 within the
plug body 904.
[0063] Further details regarding the LC and SC connectors
illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 9, respectively, may be found in U.S.
Pat. No. 8,636,425, which is hereby incorporated by reference in
its entirety.
[0064] FIGS. 10 and 11 illustrate an example embodiment of an
active ferrule-based optical power detector 1000 that is configured
to be implemented in a managed connectivity system, such as the
Quareo Physical Layer Management System available from TE
Connectivity of Berwyn, Pa. The power detector 1000 may be
implemented in a connector, converter or adapter context, as
described above. In this configuration, the power detector 1000 is
implemented in a connector 1001 configuration, and generally
comprises an optical fiber 1004, a ferrule 1008, a housing 1010, a
photodetector 1014, and a processing device 1020, e.g., a
microcontroller. As shown, the optical fiber 1004, which extends
from an optical fiber cable 1005, includes optical cladding 1006
about an optical core. The ferrule 1008 surrounds the cladding 1006
and is biased in a forward direction by a spring 1009, which allows
the ferrule 1008 to move relative to the housing 1010 along a
longitudinal axis. The housing 1010 is provided about the ferrule
1008. Embedded within the housing 1010 is the processing device. In
one example embodiment, the housing 1010 comprises a connector body
of an LC connector. In another example embodiment, the housing 1010
comprises a connector body and release sleeve of an SC connector.
Other housing configurations may be used without departing from the
spirit or scope of the disclosure. The processing device 1020 can
be in die form in an off-the-shelf configuration or can comprise a
proprietary application specific microcontroller (ASup) design. In
one example embodiment, the processing device 1020 is configured to
emulate the operation of a Quareo connector EEPROM.
[0065] A cavity 1012, or groove, is etched or otherwise fabricated
(e.g., mirror or grating) within the ferrule 1008 to expose a
portion of the cladding 1006. Seated within the cavity 1012, over
the exposed portion of the cladding 1006, is the photodetector
1014. In one example embodiment, the photodetector 1014 comprises a
positive-intrinsic-negative (PIN) photodiode that is used to detect
optical energy. Alternatively, other types of sensors may be used
within the ferrule 1008 to detect other types of physical energy
and produce a usable output signal representative of that physical
energy. However, in the context of the photodetector embodiment,
the photodetector 1014 is fixedly secured within the cavity 1012 in
a position substantially parallel to the axis of the optical fiber
1004. The output of the photodetector 1014 is electrically coupled
to an I/O line of the processing device via one or more electrical
leads 1016; the output of the photodetector 1014 may be analog or
digital depending on the photodetector selected. In one example
embodiment, the one or more electrical leads 1016 are provided with
slack 1017 to accommodate the motion of the ferrule 1008 as it
travels longitudinally. The slack 1017 may, alternatively, be
replaced with springs, slides or any type of electrical connection
that would accommodate movement between the ferrule 1008 and the
housing 1010.
[0066] Referring to FIG. 11, the processing device is provided with
electrical contacts 1022 for mating with a managed connectivity
panel, for example the Quareo Q3000 managed connectivity panel
1100. In the example embodiment, the managed connectivity panel
1100 includes a plurality of connectors 1102 wherein each is
configured to receive the connector 1001 with the power detector
1000 embedded therein. In one example embodiment, the managed
connectivity panel 1100 includes a panel controller 1104 which is
configured to read and write to the processing device 1020.
Accordingly, communication between the panel controller 1104 and
the embedded processing device 1020 can occur to transfer managed
connectivity information, e.g., read/write data stored in a
key-length-value (KLV) structure, as well as determine that optical
power is present at the connector 1001. In some embodiments, the
processing device 1020 or panel controller 1104 can use the output
of the power detector 1000 to calculate a power level. Further, the
panel controller 1104 can use the optical power information to
create a physical and optical connectivity map to pinpoint
locations with and/or without optical power. The panel controller
1104 may additionally be configured to generate alerts when optical
power is either detected or lost as determined by the power
detector 1000. In one example embodiment, the power detector 1000
is provided at each end of an optical fiber cable to monitor the
optical power at each end of the cable.
[0067] FIGS. 12-15 illustrate various electrical configurations for
the power detector 1000 housed within connector 1001. FIG. 12
illustrates an example embodiment of a four-contact configuration
1200, which is a configuration that may be used with the Quareo
Physical Layer Management System described above. As shown, the
electrical configuration 1200 includes the photodetector 1014,
proximate the optical fiber 1004, coupled to a substrate assembly
1202 incorporating the processing device 1020. The photodetector
1014 is coupled to the substrate assembly 1202 with a micro ribbon
cable 1204 (or printed interconnector) that includes a sensor line
1206. The substrate assembly 1202 is additionally provided with
four contacts: (1) NC (not connected); (2) Vss (negative supply
voltage); (3) Data; and (4) Vdd (positive supply voltage). The four
contacts are configured to mate with connectors, e.g., connectors
1102, in the managed connectivity panel, e.g. panel 1100.
[0068] FIG. 13 illustrates an example embodiment of a three-contact
configuration 1300 for the power detector 1000, which can be used
with other types of managed connectivity systems. As shown, the
electrical configuration 1300 includes the photodetector 1014,
proximate the optical fiber 1004, coupled to a substrate assembly
1302 incorporating the processing device 1020. The photodetector
1014 is coupled to the substrate assembly 1302 with a micro ribbon
cable 1304 (or printed interconnector) that includes a sensor line
1306. The substrate assembly 1302 is provided with three contacts:
(1) Vss (negative supply voltage); (2) Data; and (3) Vdd (positive
supply voltage). The substrate assembly 1302 further includes one
or more light emitting diodes (LEDs) 1308, e.g., a tri-color LED.
The LEDs 1308 are visible at the connector 1001 and can provide the
installer a visual indicator as to the presence or absence of
power. In another embodiment, the LEDs 1308 use different colors to
indicator different levels of power, e.g., green--to indicates high
power, yellow--to indicate nominal power, and red--to indicate low
power (or simply power detected); the lack of light at the LEDs
1308 indicates no power detected.
[0069] FIG. 14 illustrates an example embodiment of a two-contact
configuration 1400 for the power detector 1000. As shown, the
electrical configuration 1400 includes the photodetector 1014,
proximate the optical fiber 1004, coupled to a substrate assembly
1402 incorporating the processing device 1020. The photodetector
1014 is coupled to the substrate assembly 1402 with a micro ribbon
cable 1404 (or printed interconnector) that includes a sensor line
1406. The substrate assembly 1402 is provided with two contacts:
(1) Vss (negative supply voltage); and (2) Vdd (positive supply
voltage). The substrate assembly 1402 further includes one or more
light emitting diodes (LEDs) 1408 similar to LEDs 1308 described
above. The electrical configuration 1400 is configured to provide
only power to the processing device, photodetector 1014, and LEDs
1408 by interfacing with, for example, special panel power or
another power supply.
[0070] FIG. 15 illustrates an example embodiment of another
four-contact configuration 1500 for the power detector 1000. As
shown, the electrical configuration 1500 includes the photodetector
1014, proximate the optical fiber 1004, coupled to a substrate
assembly 1502 incorporating the processing device 1020. The
photodetector 1014 is coupled to the substrate assembly 1502 with a
micro ribbon cable 1504 (or printed interconnector) that includes a
sensor line 1506. The substrate assembly 1502 is provided with four
contacts: (1) Vss (negative supply voltage); (2) SCL (clock
signal); (3) SDA (data signal) and (4) Vdd (positive supply
voltage). The SDA and SCL contacts enable I2C (inter-integrated
circuit protocol) communication The substrate assembly 1502 further
includes one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs) 1508 similar to
LEDs 1308 described above.
[0071] Referring to FIG. 16A an example of a ferrule-less connector
1610 and an optical fiber 1604 extending there through is
illustrated. The optical fiber 1604 extends from a fiber optic
cable 1605. In certain examples, the optical fiber 1604 includes a
bare fiber section 1606, e.g. a section of fiber comprising only a
glass core and a glass cladding layer, and a coated section 1607,
e.g., a section of fiber comprising the core, the cladding, a
coating layer and a buffer layer. The connector 1610 comprises a
main connector body 1620, a fiber positioning piece 1622, a fiber
fixation component 1624, and a proximal connector body 1626. The
ferrule-less connector 1610 can additionally include various other
components such as a boot 1630 and a shutter 1632. It should be
noted that FIG. 16A illustrates a buckling of the optical fiber
1604, such buckling occurs when the connector 1610 is coupled to
another connector 1610; in an unconnected state, the optical fiber
1604 is straight, as illustrated by the dashed line in FIG. 16A,
lying along a central axis of the connector 1610. Additional
information regarding the ferrule-less connector 1610 can be found
in U.S. provisional patent application No. 62/352,281, filed Jun.
20, 2016 and entitled "Ferrule-less Fiber Optic Connector;" the
entire contents of the identified application is hereby
incorporated by reference.
[0072] FIG. 16B illustrates the ferrule-less connector of FIG. 16A
with the addition of an optical power detector 1600 and reader
1602. The power detector 1600 generally comprises the optical fiber
1604, the ferrule-less connector 1610, a photodetector 1614 and an
electrical interface 1615. The photodetector 1614, e.g. a
positive-intrinsic-negative (PIN) photodiode or other appropriate
sensor, can be placed at one or more suitable locations within the
ferrule-less connector 1610 to detect power from the bare fiber
section 1606 of the optical fiber 1604; a portion of the bare fiber
section 1606 proximate the photodetector 1614 has been modified to
include a mirror or grating to direct light towards the
photodetector 1614. For example, the photodetector 1614(a) is
mounted on a surface of or embedded within the main connector body
1620, e.g., at the shutter 1632, proximate the exiting tip of the
bare fiber section 1606. The photodetector 1614(b) is mounted on a
surface of or embedded within the fiber positioning piece 1622,
e.g., at the nose of the connector 1610, proximate the bare fiber
section 1606. The photodetector 1614(c) is mounted centrally on a
surface of or embedded within the main connector body 1620, e.g.,
at the buckling region, proximate the bare fiber section 1606. The
photodetector 1614(d) is mounted on a surface of or embedded within
the fiber fixation component 1624, e.g., the anchoring region,
proximate the bare fiber section 1606. Other photodetector
placements positioning the photodetector 1614 proximate the bare
fiber section 1606 of the optical fiber 1604 within the
ferrule-less connector 1610 are also possible. Each photodetector
1614 is provided with an electrical interface 1615, e.g.,
electrical leads 1616a and 1616b connecting the photodetector to
electrical contacts 1617a and 1617b, respectively, enabling the
reader 1602 to be electrically coupled to photodetector 1614. The
reader 1602 can be either passive or active, see description of
various reader configurations described above, as can the
photodetector 1614.
[0073] In certain embodiments, the ferrule-less connector 1610
includes a base configuration that is operable as a connector
without the photodetector 1614. Further, in certain embodiments,
the base connector 1610 is configured to be modified enabling it
for operation with the photodetector 1614. For example, a part,
e.g. a connector shell, shutter, nose piece, etc., containing the
photodetector 1614 can be added to the base connector. As such, a
connector design can be used with or without the photodetector with
minimal modifications and costs.
[0074] In each of the embodiments described above, a photodetector
for detecting power within an optical fiber is integrated with an
optical fiber ferrule, housing and/or connector. In the optical
power detector and reader configuration of FIGS. 17A and 17B, the
photodetector 1714 is located remotely from the fiber, ferrule,
housing and/or connector, and can be incorporated into the reader
1702 itself or be positioned remotely there from; the reader 1702
can be fixed in position or mobile. In the configuration of FIGS.
17A and 17B, a multi-fiber cable 1705 includes a plurality of
optical fibers 1704 with each of the optical fibers 1704 including
at least a bare fiber section 1706; each of the optical fibers 1704
can additionally include a coated section 1707. A bare fiber end of
each of the optical fibers 1704 is connectorized with a ferruled or
ferrule-less connector 1710. Each connector 1710 includes an
opening 1712 overlying a portion of the bare fiber section 1706 of
the optical fiber 1704; the portion of the bare fiber section 1706
beneath the opening is modified to include a mirror or grating to
deflect light toward the opening 1712. The opening 1712 can be
vacant or filled with a transparent or translucent material,
enabling the detection of light there through. In certain examples,
the underlying bare fiber section 1706 of the optical fiber 1704 is
additionally coated with a fluorescent material 1708, see FIG. 17B,
that is activated by the light passing through the optical fiber
1704. The fluorescing properties of the material 1708 can enhance
the ability of the photodetector 1714 to detect optical power in
the optical fiber 1704. In certain examples, the photodetector 1714
and reader 1702 are configured to detect the power in any one of a
plurality of optical fibers 1704 (ribbonized or individual fibers),
e.g. the reader 1702 has the ability to simultaneously monitor all
of the plurality of optical fibers and detect when light is present
in one, or more, of the plurality. In certain examples, optical
filters enable the detection and identification of light present in
more than one of the plurality of optical fibers by the
photodetector 1714 and reader 1720. For example, an optical filter
specific to each optical fiber can alter the wavelength of the
light detected enabling not only the detection of light but
identification of the specific optical fiber from which the light
is emitted. In certain examples, the photodetector 1714 comprises a
plurality of photodetectors (e.g., a multi-detector) with each
photodetector configured to detect light emitting from one or more
optical fibers among a plurality of optical fibers. In certain
examples, the photodetector 1714 and reader 1702 are configured to
monitor only an independent single fiber and the light emitted
therefrom.
[0075] Additional information about managed connectivity systems
may be found in U.S. Pat. Nos. 9,140,859; 9,176,294; 8,690,593;
8,142,221; 9,020,319; 9,223,105; 9,198,320; 9,213,363; 8,923,013;
8,934,253; and 8,934,252, all of which are hereby incorporated by
reference in their entirety.
[0076] Additional information about non-intrusive optical power
monitoring may be found in PCT publications WO2015/121804 and
WO2014/099457, both of which are hereby incorporated by reference
in their entirety.
[0077] Systems, devices or methods disclosed herein may include one
or more of the features structures, methods, or combination thereof
described herein. For example, a device or method may be
implemented to include one or more of the features and/or processes
above. It is intended that such device or method need not include
all of the features and/or processes described herein, but may be
implemented to include selected features and/or processes that
provide useful structures and/or functionality.
[0078] Various modifications and additions can be made to the
disclosed embodiments discussed above. Accordingly, the scope of
the present disclosure should not be limited by the particular
embodiments described above, but should be defined only by the
claims set forth below and equivalents thereof.
* * * * *