Location tracking using fiber optic array cables and related systems and methods
US10070258B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 6, 2017 |
| Grant date | Sep 4, 2018 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 6, 2037 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04W84/12
- WIPO fieldTelecommunications
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
Fiber optic array cables and related systems and methods to determine and/or track locations of objects are disclosed. The fiber optic array cables can be employed in an optical-fiber-based communication system, including a centralized optical-fiber based communication system. In one embodiment, the fiber optic array cable is configured to carry optical RF or radio-over-fiber (RoF) signals to establish communications with objects. The fiber optic array cable includes multiple reference units along the length of the cable. The reference units can be configured to convert received optical RF signals into electrical RF signals to establish RF communications with objects capable of receiving electrical RF signals. The reference units are also configured to convert received electrical RF signals from the objects into optical RF signals, which are then used to determine the location of the object. Having the availability of the multiple reference units on one or more the fiber optic array cables can provide enhanced reliability in tracking objects.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.