CA2503182A1 - A system for establishing fiber optic connectivity between electrical and electronic devices and an ac receptacle in a building - Google Patents
A system for establishing fiber optic connectivity between electrical and electronic devices and an ac receptacle in a building Download PDFInfo
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- CA2503182A1 CA2503182A1 CA002503182A CA2503182A CA2503182A1 CA 2503182 A1 CA2503182 A1 CA 2503182A1 CA 002503182 A CA002503182 A CA 002503182A CA 2503182 A CA2503182 A CA 2503182A CA 2503182 A1 CA2503182 A1 CA 2503182A1
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- fiber optic
- acfo
- electrical
- power cord
- building
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- G—PHYSICS
- G02—OPTICS
- G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
- G02B6/00—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings
- G02B6/46—Processes or apparatus adapted for installing or repairing optical fibres or optical cables
- G02B6/47—Installation in buildings
- G02B6/475—Mechanical aspects of installing cables in ducts or the like for buildings
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Abstract
A method and system for establishing electrical and fiber optic connectivity between the electrical and electronic devices and the AC receptacles in a building to increase the amount of bandwidth the devices can receive. This comprises linking an ACFO Power Cord of the present invention to a power cord cable having a plastic, or rubber insulated electrical male ACFO plug at one end and a female adapter socket at the other end, which connects the power cord to the electrical and electronic devices in the building. In a preferred embodiment, the power cord cable has at least two electrical conductors therein for conducting electrical signals and electrical power, and one conductor for conducting the fiber optic communications signal, the ground prong preferably being used to carry the Fiber Optic line. ACFO Receptacles having fiber optic connectors transfer, when the ACFO plug of the ACFO power plug is inserted into any of the ACFO Receptacles, a fiber optic signal through the ACFO Power Cord to the electronic and electrical devices in the building.
Description
A SYSTEM FOR ESTABLISHING FIBER OPTIC CONNECTIVITY BETWEEN
ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC DEVICES AND AN AC RECEPTACLE IN A
BUILDING
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to providing an improved method and system for establishing fiber optic connectivity within a building with a view to providing an increased bandwidth capability for electrical and electronic devices therein, and, more specifically, to providing electrical and fiber optic connectivity between two points, these being the electrical 0 and electronic devices and the AC Receptacles in a residential, commercial or industrial buildings, or the like.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PRIOR ART
The fast development of communication links has increased the demand for faster and more reliable transmission systems drastically. The use of optical fiber systems for carrying large S quantities of information with low distortion and low cost over great distance has revolutionized transmission and communications possibilities in recent years, in that these fibers allow a large number of signals to be transferred in one and the same fiber with the speed of light. Fiber-optic communication and transmission links, because of their ability to carry vastly more information than equivalent sizes of electrical wires, will be the "infrastructure" of the much talked about '0 information highway now and in the future. In optical communication, sources of light, such as lasers, are connected to optical fibers that carry the signal over both long and short distances to optical receivers.
In the average home, and with the development of continually improving electrical and '.5 electronic devices that are rapidly and increasingly demanding high-bandwidth communication links. These electrical and electronic devices can include, for example, high speed Internet, cable, computers and printers, local area network, cameras and security systems, telephone, signals for audio and video over IP, satellite, intercoms, and all other network communication technologies used in electrical and electronic devices, apparatuses and appliances.
SO
In the near future, because of the bandwidth available in fiber optic communications, fiber optic connectivity will allow us to obtain our telephone, cable, satellite, high speed Internet and many other signals on one single fiber optic connection, for use in electrical and electronic devices and appliances. To accomplish this, it would be preferable to provide an improved system for establishing fiber optic connectivity to a building with a view to providing an increased bandwidth capability for electrical and electronic devices therein, through the use of only one power cord connected to a fiber optically compatible power receptacle. While power cords are well known in the art, as evidenced by U.S. Patents Nos. 6,851,960 (Bain et a~ and 6,805,579 (Marchand et al), in order to effectively provide fiber optic connectivity to electronic 0 and electrical devices, what would be preferable is to provide a power cord having a integral fiber optic link therein, to work in combination with a fiber optic compatible power receptacle.
Further, for the sake of simplicity, it would be preferable to bring electrical power and fiber optic connectivity to electronic and electrical devices through the use of only one power cord connected to a fiber optically compatible power receptacle.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The object of the present invention is to provide an improved method and system for establishing fiber optic connectivity within a building with a view to providing an increased bandwidth capability for electrical and electronic devices therein.
'.0 It is another object of the present invention to provide an improved method and system for establishing fiber optic connectivity, wherein electronic and electrical devices can be provided with fiber optic connectivity through the use of a fiber optic link integrated into a power cord, in combination with a fiber optically compatible power receptacle.
'.5 It is another object of the present invention to bring electrical power and fiber optic connectivity to electronic and electrical devices through the use of only one power cord connected to a fiber optic compatible power receptacle, and which can be used in conjunction with any and all types of conventional electrical plugs and receptacles.
t0 According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a system for providing an electrical and fiber optic connection between Electronic Devices and an AC
Receptacle in a building comprising the steps of (a) installing an optical converter or transmitter within the building, whereby an incoming communications signal to the building can be converted by the optical converter or transmitter to a transferable fiber optic communications signal; (b) securing fiber optic connectors to the AC Receptacle in the building so as to conduct the converted transferable fiber optic communications; and (c) connecting an ACFO Power Cord to each of the Electronic Devices and the AC Receptacle, the ACFO Power Cord having at least two conductors therein for conducting electrical signals and electrical power, and at least one fiber conductor for 0 conducting the fiber optic communications signal, whereby, when the AFCO
Power Cord is connected between the Electronic Devices and the AC Receptacle, the electrical and fiber optic connection is established for transferring electrical power and the fiber optic communications signal there between.
5 A further aspect of the present invention provides for a system for providing an electrical and fiber optic connection between Electronic Devices and an AC Receptacle in a building comprising the steps of: (a) installing a copper to fiber optic converter within the building, whereby an incoming electrical communications signal to the building can be converted by the copper to fiber optic converter to a transferable fiber optic communications signal; (b) securing '0 fiber optic connectors to the AC Receptacle in the building so as to conduct the converted transferable fiber optic communications; and (c) connecting an ACFO Power Cord to each of the Electronic Devices and the AC Receptacle, the ACFO Power Cord having at least two conductors therein for conducting electrical signals, and at least one fiber conductor for conducting the fiber optic communications signal, whereby, when the AFCO Power Cord is connected between the '.5 Electronic Devices and the AC Receptacle, the electrical and fiber optic connection is established for transferring electrical power and the fiber optic communications signal there between.
A still further aspect of the present invention relates to a system for providing an electrical and fiber optic connection between Electronic Devices and an AC Receptacle in a building SO comprising the steps of:(a) securing fiber optic connectors to the AC
Receptacle in the building so as to be operable to receive and conduct the converted transferable fiber optic communications signal; (b) installing an optical converter or transmitter within the building, whereby an incoming communications signal to the building can be converted by the optical converter or transmitter to a transferable fiber optic communications signal; (c) routing the transferable fiber optic communications signal from the optical converter or transmitter to the AC
Receptacle; and (d) connecting an ACFO Power Cord having a power cord plug at one end and a device connector at the opposite end, the power cord being placed between the Electronic Devices and the AC
Receptacle, wherein the power cord plug is connected into the AC Receptacle and the device connector is attached to the Electronic Devices, and wherein the ACFO Power Cord has at least 0 two conductors therein for conducting electrical signals and electrical power, and at least one fiber conductor for conducting the fiber optic communications signal, whereby, when the AFCO
Power Cord is connected between the Electronic Devices and the AC Receptacle, the electrical and fiber optic connection is established for transferring electrical power and the fiber optic communications signal there between.
The advantage of the present invention is that it provides an improved method and system for establishing fiber optic connectivity to a building with a view to providing an increased bandwidth capability for electrical and electronic devices therein.
'0 A still further advantage of the present invention is that it provides an improved method and system for establishing fiber optic connectivity, wherein electronic and electrical devices can be provided with fiber optic connectivity through the use of a fiber optic link integrated into a power cord, in combination with a fiber optically compatible power receptacle.
?5 Yet another advantage of the present invention is to bring electrical power and fiber optic connectivity to electronic and electrical devices through the use of only one power cord connected to a fiber optically compatible power receptacle, and which can be used in conjunction with any and all types of conventional electrical plugs and receptacles.
SO
ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC DEVICES AND AN AC RECEPTACLE IN A
BUILDING
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to providing an improved method and system for establishing fiber optic connectivity within a building with a view to providing an increased bandwidth capability for electrical and electronic devices therein, and, more specifically, to providing electrical and fiber optic connectivity between two points, these being the electrical 0 and electronic devices and the AC Receptacles in a residential, commercial or industrial buildings, or the like.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PRIOR ART
The fast development of communication links has increased the demand for faster and more reliable transmission systems drastically. The use of optical fiber systems for carrying large S quantities of information with low distortion and low cost over great distance has revolutionized transmission and communications possibilities in recent years, in that these fibers allow a large number of signals to be transferred in one and the same fiber with the speed of light. Fiber-optic communication and transmission links, because of their ability to carry vastly more information than equivalent sizes of electrical wires, will be the "infrastructure" of the much talked about '0 information highway now and in the future. In optical communication, sources of light, such as lasers, are connected to optical fibers that carry the signal over both long and short distances to optical receivers.
In the average home, and with the development of continually improving electrical and '.5 electronic devices that are rapidly and increasingly demanding high-bandwidth communication links. These electrical and electronic devices can include, for example, high speed Internet, cable, computers and printers, local area network, cameras and security systems, telephone, signals for audio and video over IP, satellite, intercoms, and all other network communication technologies used in electrical and electronic devices, apparatuses and appliances.
SO
In the near future, because of the bandwidth available in fiber optic communications, fiber optic connectivity will allow us to obtain our telephone, cable, satellite, high speed Internet and many other signals on one single fiber optic connection, for use in electrical and electronic devices and appliances. To accomplish this, it would be preferable to provide an improved system for establishing fiber optic connectivity to a building with a view to providing an increased bandwidth capability for electrical and electronic devices therein, through the use of only one power cord connected to a fiber optically compatible power receptacle. While power cords are well known in the art, as evidenced by U.S. Patents Nos. 6,851,960 (Bain et a~ and 6,805,579 (Marchand et al), in order to effectively provide fiber optic connectivity to electronic 0 and electrical devices, what would be preferable is to provide a power cord having a integral fiber optic link therein, to work in combination with a fiber optic compatible power receptacle.
Further, for the sake of simplicity, it would be preferable to bring electrical power and fiber optic connectivity to electronic and electrical devices through the use of only one power cord connected to a fiber optically compatible power receptacle.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The object of the present invention is to provide an improved method and system for establishing fiber optic connectivity within a building with a view to providing an increased bandwidth capability for electrical and electronic devices therein.
'.0 It is another object of the present invention to provide an improved method and system for establishing fiber optic connectivity, wherein electronic and electrical devices can be provided with fiber optic connectivity through the use of a fiber optic link integrated into a power cord, in combination with a fiber optically compatible power receptacle.
'.5 It is another object of the present invention to bring electrical power and fiber optic connectivity to electronic and electrical devices through the use of only one power cord connected to a fiber optic compatible power receptacle, and which can be used in conjunction with any and all types of conventional electrical plugs and receptacles.
t0 According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a system for providing an electrical and fiber optic connection between Electronic Devices and an AC
Receptacle in a building comprising the steps of (a) installing an optical converter or transmitter within the building, whereby an incoming communications signal to the building can be converted by the optical converter or transmitter to a transferable fiber optic communications signal; (b) securing fiber optic connectors to the AC Receptacle in the building so as to conduct the converted transferable fiber optic communications; and (c) connecting an ACFO Power Cord to each of the Electronic Devices and the AC Receptacle, the ACFO Power Cord having at least two conductors therein for conducting electrical signals and electrical power, and at least one fiber conductor for 0 conducting the fiber optic communications signal, whereby, when the AFCO
Power Cord is connected between the Electronic Devices and the AC Receptacle, the electrical and fiber optic connection is established for transferring electrical power and the fiber optic communications signal there between.
5 A further aspect of the present invention provides for a system for providing an electrical and fiber optic connection between Electronic Devices and an AC Receptacle in a building comprising the steps of: (a) installing a copper to fiber optic converter within the building, whereby an incoming electrical communications signal to the building can be converted by the copper to fiber optic converter to a transferable fiber optic communications signal; (b) securing '0 fiber optic connectors to the AC Receptacle in the building so as to conduct the converted transferable fiber optic communications; and (c) connecting an ACFO Power Cord to each of the Electronic Devices and the AC Receptacle, the ACFO Power Cord having at least two conductors therein for conducting electrical signals, and at least one fiber conductor for conducting the fiber optic communications signal, whereby, when the AFCO Power Cord is connected between the '.5 Electronic Devices and the AC Receptacle, the electrical and fiber optic connection is established for transferring electrical power and the fiber optic communications signal there between.
A still further aspect of the present invention relates to a system for providing an electrical and fiber optic connection between Electronic Devices and an AC Receptacle in a building SO comprising the steps of:(a) securing fiber optic connectors to the AC
Receptacle in the building so as to be operable to receive and conduct the converted transferable fiber optic communications signal; (b) installing an optical converter or transmitter within the building, whereby an incoming communications signal to the building can be converted by the optical converter or transmitter to a transferable fiber optic communications signal; (c) routing the transferable fiber optic communications signal from the optical converter or transmitter to the AC
Receptacle; and (d) connecting an ACFO Power Cord having a power cord plug at one end and a device connector at the opposite end, the power cord being placed between the Electronic Devices and the AC
Receptacle, wherein the power cord plug is connected into the AC Receptacle and the device connector is attached to the Electronic Devices, and wherein the ACFO Power Cord has at least 0 two conductors therein for conducting electrical signals and electrical power, and at least one fiber conductor for conducting the fiber optic communications signal, whereby, when the AFCO
Power Cord is connected between the Electronic Devices and the AC Receptacle, the electrical and fiber optic connection is established for transferring electrical power and the fiber optic communications signal there between.
The advantage of the present invention is that it provides an improved method and system for establishing fiber optic connectivity to a building with a view to providing an increased bandwidth capability for electrical and electronic devices therein.
'0 A still further advantage of the present invention is that it provides an improved method and system for establishing fiber optic connectivity, wherein electronic and electrical devices can be provided with fiber optic connectivity through the use of a fiber optic link integrated into a power cord, in combination with a fiber optically compatible power receptacle.
?5 Yet another advantage of the present invention is to bring electrical power and fiber optic connectivity to electronic and electrical devices through the use of only one power cord connected to a fiber optically compatible power receptacle, and which can be used in conjunction with any and all types of conventional electrical plugs and receptacles.
SO
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
A preferred embodiment of the present invention is described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
Figure 1 is a diagram illustrating a system for establishing electrical and fiber optic connectivity between the electrical and electronic devices and the AC Receptacle in a building according to one embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 1A is a diagram of the preferred embodiment of the ACFO Power Cord, ;
Figure 2 is a diagram illustrating the ACFO Receptacle, according to one embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 3 illustrates a diagram of the use of a conventional "copper to fiber"
converter in the 5 system of the present invention, whereby incoming electrical and digital signals coming into the building can be converted through use of this converter to a fiber optic signal that is then forwarded through the ACFO Receptacles;
Figure 4 illustrates a side view of the connection between the ACFO plug of the ACFO Power '0 Cord and the ACFO Receptacle, according to one embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 5 illustrates a further side view of the connection between the ACFO
plug of the ACFO
Power Cord and the ACFO Receptacle shown in Figure 6;
'.5 Figure SA illustrates an exploded side view of the ACFO plug of the ACFO
Power Cord, according to one embodiment of the present invention;
Figure SB illustrates an exploded side view of the ACFO Receptacle fiber optic adapter, according to one embodiment of the present invention;
SO
Figure SC illustrates an exploded side view of the fiber optic cable connector, according to one embodiment of the present invention;
Figure SD illustrates an exploded side view of the connection between the AFCO
plug of the ACFO Power Cord and the ACFO Receptacle, according to one embodiment of the present invention, and illustrates the completed fiber optic link between the AFCO
plug of the ACFO
Power Cord and the ACFO Receptacle;
Figure 6 illustrates an overview of the connection between the ACFO Power Cord and a generic 0 fiber optic connector, the fiber optic connector being placed for attachment between the ACFO
Power Cord and an electrical or electronic device so as to terminate the fiber optic link, according to one embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 7 illustrates an exploded side view of the AFCO plug of the ACFO Power Cord, and 5 which illustrates an exploded view of the termination of the fiber optic cable within the ACFO
Power Cord;
Figure 8 illustrates a further exploded side view of the AFCO plug of the ACFO
Power Cord shown in Figure 7, and which illustrates an exploded view of the termination of the fiber optic '0 cable within the ACFO Power Cord;
Figure 9 illustrates a cut away, cross sectional view of the cord cable of the ACFO Power Cord, according to one embodiment of the present invention;
'S Figure 10 illustrates a cut away view of one type of the ACFO Power Cord and device connection, according to one embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 11 illustrates an exploded side view and cross sectional view of the female adapter socket of the ACFO Power Cord encompassing the same technology as the ACFO
Receptacle, SO according to one embodiment of the present invention;
A preferred embodiment of the present invention is described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
Figure 1 is a diagram illustrating a system for establishing electrical and fiber optic connectivity between the electrical and electronic devices and the AC Receptacle in a building according to one embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 1A is a diagram of the preferred embodiment of the ACFO Power Cord, ;
Figure 2 is a diagram illustrating the ACFO Receptacle, according to one embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 3 illustrates a diagram of the use of a conventional "copper to fiber"
converter in the 5 system of the present invention, whereby incoming electrical and digital signals coming into the building can be converted through use of this converter to a fiber optic signal that is then forwarded through the ACFO Receptacles;
Figure 4 illustrates a side view of the connection between the ACFO plug of the ACFO Power '0 Cord and the ACFO Receptacle, according to one embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 5 illustrates a further side view of the connection between the ACFO
plug of the ACFO
Power Cord and the ACFO Receptacle shown in Figure 6;
'.5 Figure SA illustrates an exploded side view of the ACFO plug of the ACFO
Power Cord, according to one embodiment of the present invention;
Figure SB illustrates an exploded side view of the ACFO Receptacle fiber optic adapter, according to one embodiment of the present invention;
SO
Figure SC illustrates an exploded side view of the fiber optic cable connector, according to one embodiment of the present invention;
Figure SD illustrates an exploded side view of the connection between the AFCO
plug of the ACFO Power Cord and the ACFO Receptacle, according to one embodiment of the present invention, and illustrates the completed fiber optic link between the AFCO
plug of the ACFO
Power Cord and the ACFO Receptacle;
Figure 6 illustrates an overview of the connection between the ACFO Power Cord and a generic 0 fiber optic connector, the fiber optic connector being placed for attachment between the ACFO
Power Cord and an electrical or electronic device so as to terminate the fiber optic link, according to one embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 7 illustrates an exploded side view of the AFCO plug of the ACFO Power Cord, and 5 which illustrates an exploded view of the termination of the fiber optic cable within the ACFO
Power Cord;
Figure 8 illustrates a further exploded side view of the AFCO plug of the ACFO
Power Cord shown in Figure 7, and which illustrates an exploded view of the termination of the fiber optic '0 cable within the ACFO Power Cord;
Figure 9 illustrates a cut away, cross sectional view of the cord cable of the ACFO Power Cord, according to one embodiment of the present invention;
'S Figure 10 illustrates a cut away view of one type of the ACFO Power Cord and device connection, according to one embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 11 illustrates an exploded side view and cross sectional view of the female adapter socket of the ACFO Power Cord encompassing the same technology as the ACFO
Receptacle, SO according to one embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 12 illustrates a further exploded side view of the completed fiber optic link and electrical connections between the ACFO plug of the ACFO Power Cord and the ACFO
Receptacle, according to one embodiment of the present invention; and Figure 13 illustrates a further exploded side view of the completed fiber optic link between the ACFO plug of the ACFO Power Cord and the ACFO Receptacle shown in Figure 12, according to one embodiment of the present invention;
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
0 The present invention, as noted previously, essentially provides electrical and fiber optic connectivity between two points, these being the Electrical and Electronic Devices and the AC Receptacle. This comprises having an ACFO Power Cord, and an AFCO
Receptacle that connects the power cord to the electrical and electronic devices in the building, whereby the devices can be provided with fiber optic connectivity to increase an amount of bandwidth they 5 can receive, such as Giga-Speed Communication bandwidth. It will, of course, be understood that buildings can encompass residential, commercial and industrial buildings, or the like. It should also be noted that the ACFO Power Cord (as hereinafter described), refers essentially to an AC
Powered Fiber Optic power cord, for use in the present invention, and the ACFO
Receptacle (as hereinafter described), refers to the typical electrical receptacle, but having the addition of a fiber ?0 optic link, through which fiber optic communications can be transmitted to an ACFO Power Cord connected thereto and ultimately on to the electrical or electronic devices.
The present invention is designed to bring fiber optic communication signals to electrical and electronic devices in the building such as, but not limited to, computers and printers, '.S automation and control systems, high speed Internet, cable, local area network, cameras and security systems, telephone, signals for audio and video over IP, satellite, intercoms, and all other network communication technologies using a fiber optic link.
In a preferred embodiment, the present invention will establish fiber optic network SO connection which is embedded in a standard of the shelf AC Receptacle outlet, and which will enable fiber optic connectivity for electrical and electronic devices in a building, without the need for an external network connection. Of course, incoming communication signals to a home or building are typically electrical analog and digital. The present invention is designed to operate through use of a conventional optical transmitter or converter such as Fiberlink TM, or such as a copper to fiber optic converter, whereby the transmitter or converter converts the electrical analog or digital signal into a corresponding optical signal, as can be seen with reference to Figure 3. Preferably, the optical transmitter or converter is installed within, or in close proximity to, the electrical or breaker panel (80) for the building, where the electrical analog or digital signals can be converted to fiber optic signals, the source of the optical signal being either a light emitting diode, or a solid state laser diode, before these signals are transferred through the ACFO
0 Receptacles (7) of the present invention to any ACFO Power Cords connected thereto, and ultimately onward to the electrical and electronic devices.
Figure 1 illustrates a preferred embodiment of the present invention, wherein electrical and fiber optic connectivity is provided between two points, these being the Electrical and .5 Electronic Devices and the AC Receptacle. In Figure 1, the ACFO plug (5) of the ACFO Power Cord, which is located at an end of the power cord cable (4), is secured into the ACFO
Receptacle (7) to provide fiber optic and electrical links (6) there between.
At an opposite end of the power cord cable (4) is the ACFO Device Receptacle (3) (essentially, the "female" end of the power cord), which is connected to the electrical and electronic devices via the ACFO Device '0 Receptacle ( 1 ) to provide fiber optic and electrical link (2) there between, and complete the electrical and fiber optic connectivity between the Electrical and Electronic Devices (1) and the AC Receptacle (7).
With reference to Figure 1A, the ACFO Power Cord of the present invention consists of a 'S power cord cable (4) having a plastic or rubber insulated electrical male ACFO plug (5) at one end and a female adapter socket (3) at the other end. The cable can, of course, be secured to the ACFO plug (5) by a cable securing device (19), conventional means for which are well known in the art. Of course, the ACFO plug (5) will have the usual two or three metal prongs disposed therein for insertion in an AC Receptacle (not shown). Neutral prong (12) is used to conduct SO electrical neutral signal to the electrical and electronic devices, electrical prong (13) is used to conduct electrical line power to the electrical and electronic devices, and ground prong (16) is used to conduct the electrical ground signal to the electrical and electronic devices. The prongs are connected to respective wires or conductors (not shown) that extend within the cord cable (4) in a conventional manner through the cord to female adapter socket (3).
The power cord cable (4) consists of at least, but not limited to, three conductors enclosed in an environmental type protective jacket. In a preferred embodiment, in the case of the conventional 120 V power cord cable used for computers and residential appliances, for example, the power cord cable would consist of three conductors that would be used for conducting electrical signals, and one conductor that would be used to conduct fiber optic communications. It 0 will of course, be understood that the power cord cable can vary in length in order to suit any applications. In essence, the AFCO Power Cord of the present invention is distinguishable as encompassing any and all types of fiber-optic conductor that is inserted into a mechanical/electrical protective jacket, the fiber optic conductor being considered as an additional and separate conductor (distinct from electrical conductors) that is used to transport 5 and/or conduct a fiber optic signal. By way of illustration only, the four conductors that could be used in the preferred embodiment of the ACFO Power Cord cable are:
1 ) Electrical Line Conductor 2) Electrical Neutral Conductor 3) Electrical Ground Conductor '0 4) Fiber Optic Line Conductor With reference to Figure 9, there is illustrated power cord cable (4) having Fiber Optic Line Conductor (21), Electrical Neutral Conductor (23), Electrical Line Conductor (22), and Electrical Ground Conductor (24), the fiber optic conductors being sheathed in protective '.5 material (26) and collectively encased in insulating material (25).
Of course, a worker skilled in the art would understand that the Fiber Optic line Conductor mentioned above could conceivably comprise one or more, or any number, of physical fiber optic conductors. In a preferred embodiment, the ground prong (16) is used to carry the SO Fiber Optic line. Preferably, the fiber optic line will be located in a center of the electrical ground plug (16), as can be seen with reference to Figure 7, though it will be understood that it is not absolutely essential that this be so. It will also be understood that a plurality of fiber optic lines could be placed within the power cord cable, or in the ground plug. The fiber optic line terminates at the end of the ground plug. When the ground plug is inserted into the fiber optically compatible power receptacle ACFO Receptacle (as hereinafter described), this connection ensures an electrical connection and fiber optic link between the AFCO Power Cord and the AFCO Receptacle.
Upon the physical connection of the power cord to the receptacle, fiber optic links would be made between the number of physical fiber optic conductors in the power cord cable (4) of the 0 AFCO Power Cord and the AFCO Receptacle (7), it being understood that the fiber optic connection between the AFCO Power Cord and the AFCO Receptacle will be established following the physical connection of the ACFO plug (5) between the AFCO Power Cord and the AFCO Receptacle (7). It will also of course be understood that the bandwidth of any fiber optic link so created would be equivalent to the bandwidth capabilities of the specific type of fiber 5 optic conductor that is used in the power cord cable (4) of the present invention. It will also be understood that the bandwidths of any fiber optic data communications so influenced will be limited by the conductivity of the connectors, adapters, and conductivity path, and, as noted above, by the conductivity of the fiber optic conductors. In addition, it will be further understood that the electrical current capacity of the ACFO Power Cord will be dictated by the gauge of '0 electrical wires that are to be used.
With reference to Figures 2, and 4, the ACFO Receptacle of the present invention can be described as being somewhat similar to a conventional AC Receptacle which is presently used in the electrical and electronics industry, only also having a fiber optic link in the center of the 'S electrical grounding socket (female type connector located on all receptacles that carry electrical ground connectivity). As can be seen in Figure 2, this fiber optic link can be provided through use of fiber-optic connectors (70,73) which is secured to a back of existing AC
Receptacles, wherein (68, 71) is the screws for electrical neutral, and (69, 72) are the screws for the electrical line, and (74) being the screw for electrical ground.
In this manner, the ACFO Receptacle is designed to allow electricians to wire up existing houses and buildings in the same manner they have conventionally been doing.
The fiber optic links (77) can be added after the electrical work has been completed. In use, the ACFO plug (not shown) having the metal prongs for conducting the electrical line, electrical neutral and electrical ground are inserted into the ACFO Receptacle, whereby electrical line female receiving slots (60) receive electrical line prongs, electrical neutral female receiving slots (61 ) receive electrical neutral prongs, and the electrical ground female receiving slot (62) receives the ground prong, a center of which is used to carry the Fiber Optic line (14). With further reference to Figure 2, it can be seen that, in this example, when the ground prong having the fiber optic line therein is inserted into the electrical ground female receiving slot (62), the fiber optic line in each of these continues through the fiber optic connectors (70,73), an axis of which can each be seen with 0 reference to fiber optic axis (66,67). The insertion of the ground prong having the fiber optic line (14) therein can also be seen with reference to Figure 7, where the ACFO plug (5) at an end of the cable (4), and having electrical ( 12), neutral ( 13) and ground plug ( 16) thereon, can be seen approaching the ACFO Receptacle of the present invention.
5 With reference to Figure 4, in connecting the ground prong (16) having the fiber optic line ( 14) therein into the ACFO Receptacle, the mechanical securing device ( 17), as the user pushes the ground prong into the ACFO Receptacle, biases the spring (18) to compress, as can be seen at (19), whereby sufficient tension is provided to enable the ground prong to breach the fiber optic safety device (75) at (75A), thus safely inserting the ground prong and fiber optic line into and '.0 through the fiber optic connector, where an end of the fiber optic line of the ground prong (shown generally as termination point "15 in Figure 7) comes into contact with and abuts an end of the fiber optic line contained within the fiber optic connector (77). In this manner, the positive pressure created by virtue of this connection being spring loaded keeps these joined together.
With further reference to Figure 5, this connection can be seen where "A"
represents the face to '.5 face connection between the ACFO plug and the ACFO Receptacle; "B"
illustrates the ACFO
fiber optic adapter ( 14) in its most forward position; "C" illustrates the tip of the fiber optic line (14) prior to insertion of the ACFO plug; "D" illustrates the tip of the fiber optic line (14) after insertion of the ACFO plug into the ACFO Receptacle; and "E" to "F" is the allowable amount of "play" required to ensure a positive connection between the fiber optic line (14) and the fiber SO optic line or circuit (15) in the ACFO Receptacle. In a preferred embodiment, the amount of this "play" is approximately 1 to 2mm, and is provided (with reference again to Figure 4 or 7) when the mechanical securing device (17) biases the spring (18). The amount of this gap is identical to the distance between "C" and "D" in Figure S. Figure SD provides a snapshot view of the finalized connection of the connection between the fiber optic line in the ground prong and the fiber optic line or circuit in the ACFO Receptacle (see Figure SC) once the ACFO plug of the ACFO Power Cord (as seen in Figure SA) is inserted into the ACFO Receptacle (as seen in Figure 5B). Figure 12 provides a further overview of the finalized connection of the connection between the fiber optic line in the ground prong and the fiber optic line or circuit in the ACFO
Receptacle, where (40) represents the connection of the screw for electrical neutral; (43) represents the connection of the ground prong (and fiber optic line therein) to the ACFO
Receptacle; (43) represents the connection of the screw for the electrical line; and (70) represents 0 the fiber-optic connector in place within the ACFO Receptacle.
At an opposite end of the power cable (4), in a preferred embodiment, is the ACFO
Device Receptacle (3), as can be seen in Figure 1 and 1A. As noted previously herein, the ACFO
Device Receptacle (3) (essentially, the "female" end of the power cord), is connected to the 5 electrical and electronic devices ( 1 ) to provide fiber optic and electrical link (2) there between, and complete the electrical and fiber optic connectivity between the Electrical and Electronic Devices ( 1 ) and the AC Receptacle (7). As with conventional female ends of power cords, this acts as a connector or adapter to connect the female end of the power cord to the electrical and electronic devices ( 1 ). Preferably, the ACFO Device Receptacle (3) will connect the electrical '0 and electronic devices and appliances to the ACFO Power Cord, the device receptacle being compatible with any and all existing devices for electrical power supply. It will, of course, be preferably designed as a female connector or adapter, as can be seen with reference to Figures 10 and 11.
'.5 Of course, it should be noted, in connecting the ACFO Device Receptacle (3) to any electrical or electronic devices, that this may be accomplished in multiple methods. Firstly, the ACFO Device Receptacle may be physically connected to a ACFO plug of the electrical or electronic device, provided that the device is compatible so as to receive fiber optic data. For conventional devices, the ACFO Device Receptacle (3) may be connected, in a further SO embodiment seen in Figure 6, to a conventional unit, such as, for example, an RJ45 Ethernet 10/100/1000 Mbps adapter (the conventional unit then also being connected to the electrical or electronic devices) whereby the fiber optic communications signal carned by the ACFO Power Cord can be converted into an electrical or digital signal for use by the electronic or electrical conventional devices.
In Figure 11, it can be seen that the ACFO Device Connection (3), (30) represents the electrical ground female receiving slot, for receiving a corresponding electrical prong having a fiber optic line therein. Reference Numeral (32) represents the electrical line female receiving slot, and (33) represents the electrical neutral female receiving slot, all of which are encased within the ACFO Device Receptacle Casing (34). With further reference to Figure 10, the fiber optic connector (27) is at an end of the power cable (4), the cord being encased in protective 0 material or jacket (26) such as rubber, for example, and insulating material (25). Of course, also provided are electrical line (22), electrical neutral line (23), and electrical ground line (24). The fiber optic connector (27) will, of course, provide the fiber optic link between the ACFO Power Cord Device Receptacle and the ACFO Power Cord. The ACFO Device Receptacle (3), essentially, completes the closed circuit to provide the fiber optic link between the ACFO Power 5 Cord and the ACFO Receptacle.
With reference to Figure 13, in connecting the AFCO Plug (5) to the ACFO
Receptacle (7), the spring loaded mechanical securing device (56) can provide a secure mechanical connection between the AFCO Plug (5) and the ACFO Receptacle (7). As the user pushes the '.0 ACFO Plug (5) to abut the ground prong (51) having the fiber optic line (50) therein, and, in making the connection, biases the spring (58) to compress, as can be seen in Figure 13, whereby sufficient tension is provided to cause an end of the fiber optic line of the ground prong (shown generally as termination point "52" in Figure 13) comes into contact with and abuts to the fiber optic conductor provided by the Fiber Optic Connector (59) which as been secured in the back of 'S the ACFO Receptacle. In this manner, the positive pressure created by virtue of this connection being spring loaded keeps these joined together.
The present invention has been described herein with regard to preferred embodiments.
However, it will be obvious to persons skilled in the art that a number of variations and f 0 modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention as described herein.
Receptacle, according to one embodiment of the present invention; and Figure 13 illustrates a further exploded side view of the completed fiber optic link between the ACFO plug of the ACFO Power Cord and the ACFO Receptacle shown in Figure 12, according to one embodiment of the present invention;
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
0 The present invention, as noted previously, essentially provides electrical and fiber optic connectivity between two points, these being the Electrical and Electronic Devices and the AC Receptacle. This comprises having an ACFO Power Cord, and an AFCO
Receptacle that connects the power cord to the electrical and electronic devices in the building, whereby the devices can be provided with fiber optic connectivity to increase an amount of bandwidth they 5 can receive, such as Giga-Speed Communication bandwidth. It will, of course, be understood that buildings can encompass residential, commercial and industrial buildings, or the like. It should also be noted that the ACFO Power Cord (as hereinafter described), refers essentially to an AC
Powered Fiber Optic power cord, for use in the present invention, and the ACFO
Receptacle (as hereinafter described), refers to the typical electrical receptacle, but having the addition of a fiber ?0 optic link, through which fiber optic communications can be transmitted to an ACFO Power Cord connected thereto and ultimately on to the electrical or electronic devices.
The present invention is designed to bring fiber optic communication signals to electrical and electronic devices in the building such as, but not limited to, computers and printers, '.S automation and control systems, high speed Internet, cable, local area network, cameras and security systems, telephone, signals for audio and video over IP, satellite, intercoms, and all other network communication technologies using a fiber optic link.
In a preferred embodiment, the present invention will establish fiber optic network SO connection which is embedded in a standard of the shelf AC Receptacle outlet, and which will enable fiber optic connectivity for electrical and electronic devices in a building, without the need for an external network connection. Of course, incoming communication signals to a home or building are typically electrical analog and digital. The present invention is designed to operate through use of a conventional optical transmitter or converter such as Fiberlink TM, or such as a copper to fiber optic converter, whereby the transmitter or converter converts the electrical analog or digital signal into a corresponding optical signal, as can be seen with reference to Figure 3. Preferably, the optical transmitter or converter is installed within, or in close proximity to, the electrical or breaker panel (80) for the building, where the electrical analog or digital signals can be converted to fiber optic signals, the source of the optical signal being either a light emitting diode, or a solid state laser diode, before these signals are transferred through the ACFO
0 Receptacles (7) of the present invention to any ACFO Power Cords connected thereto, and ultimately onward to the electrical and electronic devices.
Figure 1 illustrates a preferred embodiment of the present invention, wherein electrical and fiber optic connectivity is provided between two points, these being the Electrical and .5 Electronic Devices and the AC Receptacle. In Figure 1, the ACFO plug (5) of the ACFO Power Cord, which is located at an end of the power cord cable (4), is secured into the ACFO
Receptacle (7) to provide fiber optic and electrical links (6) there between.
At an opposite end of the power cord cable (4) is the ACFO Device Receptacle (3) (essentially, the "female" end of the power cord), which is connected to the electrical and electronic devices via the ACFO Device '0 Receptacle ( 1 ) to provide fiber optic and electrical link (2) there between, and complete the electrical and fiber optic connectivity between the Electrical and Electronic Devices (1) and the AC Receptacle (7).
With reference to Figure 1A, the ACFO Power Cord of the present invention consists of a 'S power cord cable (4) having a plastic or rubber insulated electrical male ACFO plug (5) at one end and a female adapter socket (3) at the other end. The cable can, of course, be secured to the ACFO plug (5) by a cable securing device (19), conventional means for which are well known in the art. Of course, the ACFO plug (5) will have the usual two or three metal prongs disposed therein for insertion in an AC Receptacle (not shown). Neutral prong (12) is used to conduct SO electrical neutral signal to the electrical and electronic devices, electrical prong (13) is used to conduct electrical line power to the electrical and electronic devices, and ground prong (16) is used to conduct the electrical ground signal to the electrical and electronic devices. The prongs are connected to respective wires or conductors (not shown) that extend within the cord cable (4) in a conventional manner through the cord to female adapter socket (3).
The power cord cable (4) consists of at least, but not limited to, three conductors enclosed in an environmental type protective jacket. In a preferred embodiment, in the case of the conventional 120 V power cord cable used for computers and residential appliances, for example, the power cord cable would consist of three conductors that would be used for conducting electrical signals, and one conductor that would be used to conduct fiber optic communications. It 0 will of course, be understood that the power cord cable can vary in length in order to suit any applications. In essence, the AFCO Power Cord of the present invention is distinguishable as encompassing any and all types of fiber-optic conductor that is inserted into a mechanical/electrical protective jacket, the fiber optic conductor being considered as an additional and separate conductor (distinct from electrical conductors) that is used to transport 5 and/or conduct a fiber optic signal. By way of illustration only, the four conductors that could be used in the preferred embodiment of the ACFO Power Cord cable are:
1 ) Electrical Line Conductor 2) Electrical Neutral Conductor 3) Electrical Ground Conductor '0 4) Fiber Optic Line Conductor With reference to Figure 9, there is illustrated power cord cable (4) having Fiber Optic Line Conductor (21), Electrical Neutral Conductor (23), Electrical Line Conductor (22), and Electrical Ground Conductor (24), the fiber optic conductors being sheathed in protective '.5 material (26) and collectively encased in insulating material (25).
Of course, a worker skilled in the art would understand that the Fiber Optic line Conductor mentioned above could conceivably comprise one or more, or any number, of physical fiber optic conductors. In a preferred embodiment, the ground prong (16) is used to carry the SO Fiber Optic line. Preferably, the fiber optic line will be located in a center of the electrical ground plug (16), as can be seen with reference to Figure 7, though it will be understood that it is not absolutely essential that this be so. It will also be understood that a plurality of fiber optic lines could be placed within the power cord cable, or in the ground plug. The fiber optic line terminates at the end of the ground plug. When the ground plug is inserted into the fiber optically compatible power receptacle ACFO Receptacle (as hereinafter described), this connection ensures an electrical connection and fiber optic link between the AFCO Power Cord and the AFCO Receptacle.
Upon the physical connection of the power cord to the receptacle, fiber optic links would be made between the number of physical fiber optic conductors in the power cord cable (4) of the 0 AFCO Power Cord and the AFCO Receptacle (7), it being understood that the fiber optic connection between the AFCO Power Cord and the AFCO Receptacle will be established following the physical connection of the ACFO plug (5) between the AFCO Power Cord and the AFCO Receptacle (7). It will also of course be understood that the bandwidth of any fiber optic link so created would be equivalent to the bandwidth capabilities of the specific type of fiber 5 optic conductor that is used in the power cord cable (4) of the present invention. It will also be understood that the bandwidths of any fiber optic data communications so influenced will be limited by the conductivity of the connectors, adapters, and conductivity path, and, as noted above, by the conductivity of the fiber optic conductors. In addition, it will be further understood that the electrical current capacity of the ACFO Power Cord will be dictated by the gauge of '0 electrical wires that are to be used.
With reference to Figures 2, and 4, the ACFO Receptacle of the present invention can be described as being somewhat similar to a conventional AC Receptacle which is presently used in the electrical and electronics industry, only also having a fiber optic link in the center of the 'S electrical grounding socket (female type connector located on all receptacles that carry electrical ground connectivity). As can be seen in Figure 2, this fiber optic link can be provided through use of fiber-optic connectors (70,73) which is secured to a back of existing AC
Receptacles, wherein (68, 71) is the screws for electrical neutral, and (69, 72) are the screws for the electrical line, and (74) being the screw for electrical ground.
In this manner, the ACFO Receptacle is designed to allow electricians to wire up existing houses and buildings in the same manner they have conventionally been doing.
The fiber optic links (77) can be added after the electrical work has been completed. In use, the ACFO plug (not shown) having the metal prongs for conducting the electrical line, electrical neutral and electrical ground are inserted into the ACFO Receptacle, whereby electrical line female receiving slots (60) receive electrical line prongs, electrical neutral female receiving slots (61 ) receive electrical neutral prongs, and the electrical ground female receiving slot (62) receives the ground prong, a center of which is used to carry the Fiber Optic line (14). With further reference to Figure 2, it can be seen that, in this example, when the ground prong having the fiber optic line therein is inserted into the electrical ground female receiving slot (62), the fiber optic line in each of these continues through the fiber optic connectors (70,73), an axis of which can each be seen with 0 reference to fiber optic axis (66,67). The insertion of the ground prong having the fiber optic line (14) therein can also be seen with reference to Figure 7, where the ACFO plug (5) at an end of the cable (4), and having electrical ( 12), neutral ( 13) and ground plug ( 16) thereon, can be seen approaching the ACFO Receptacle of the present invention.
5 With reference to Figure 4, in connecting the ground prong (16) having the fiber optic line ( 14) therein into the ACFO Receptacle, the mechanical securing device ( 17), as the user pushes the ground prong into the ACFO Receptacle, biases the spring (18) to compress, as can be seen at (19), whereby sufficient tension is provided to enable the ground prong to breach the fiber optic safety device (75) at (75A), thus safely inserting the ground prong and fiber optic line into and '.0 through the fiber optic connector, where an end of the fiber optic line of the ground prong (shown generally as termination point "15 in Figure 7) comes into contact with and abuts an end of the fiber optic line contained within the fiber optic connector (77). In this manner, the positive pressure created by virtue of this connection being spring loaded keeps these joined together.
With further reference to Figure 5, this connection can be seen where "A"
represents the face to '.5 face connection between the ACFO plug and the ACFO Receptacle; "B"
illustrates the ACFO
fiber optic adapter ( 14) in its most forward position; "C" illustrates the tip of the fiber optic line (14) prior to insertion of the ACFO plug; "D" illustrates the tip of the fiber optic line (14) after insertion of the ACFO plug into the ACFO Receptacle; and "E" to "F" is the allowable amount of "play" required to ensure a positive connection between the fiber optic line (14) and the fiber SO optic line or circuit (15) in the ACFO Receptacle. In a preferred embodiment, the amount of this "play" is approximately 1 to 2mm, and is provided (with reference again to Figure 4 or 7) when the mechanical securing device (17) biases the spring (18). The amount of this gap is identical to the distance between "C" and "D" in Figure S. Figure SD provides a snapshot view of the finalized connection of the connection between the fiber optic line in the ground prong and the fiber optic line or circuit in the ACFO Receptacle (see Figure SC) once the ACFO plug of the ACFO Power Cord (as seen in Figure SA) is inserted into the ACFO Receptacle (as seen in Figure 5B). Figure 12 provides a further overview of the finalized connection of the connection between the fiber optic line in the ground prong and the fiber optic line or circuit in the ACFO
Receptacle, where (40) represents the connection of the screw for electrical neutral; (43) represents the connection of the ground prong (and fiber optic line therein) to the ACFO
Receptacle; (43) represents the connection of the screw for the electrical line; and (70) represents 0 the fiber-optic connector in place within the ACFO Receptacle.
At an opposite end of the power cable (4), in a preferred embodiment, is the ACFO
Device Receptacle (3), as can be seen in Figure 1 and 1A. As noted previously herein, the ACFO
Device Receptacle (3) (essentially, the "female" end of the power cord), is connected to the 5 electrical and electronic devices ( 1 ) to provide fiber optic and electrical link (2) there between, and complete the electrical and fiber optic connectivity between the Electrical and Electronic Devices ( 1 ) and the AC Receptacle (7). As with conventional female ends of power cords, this acts as a connector or adapter to connect the female end of the power cord to the electrical and electronic devices ( 1 ). Preferably, the ACFO Device Receptacle (3) will connect the electrical '0 and electronic devices and appliances to the ACFO Power Cord, the device receptacle being compatible with any and all existing devices for electrical power supply. It will, of course, be preferably designed as a female connector or adapter, as can be seen with reference to Figures 10 and 11.
'.5 Of course, it should be noted, in connecting the ACFO Device Receptacle (3) to any electrical or electronic devices, that this may be accomplished in multiple methods. Firstly, the ACFO Device Receptacle may be physically connected to a ACFO plug of the electrical or electronic device, provided that the device is compatible so as to receive fiber optic data. For conventional devices, the ACFO Device Receptacle (3) may be connected, in a further SO embodiment seen in Figure 6, to a conventional unit, such as, for example, an RJ45 Ethernet 10/100/1000 Mbps adapter (the conventional unit then also being connected to the electrical or electronic devices) whereby the fiber optic communications signal carned by the ACFO Power Cord can be converted into an electrical or digital signal for use by the electronic or electrical conventional devices.
In Figure 11, it can be seen that the ACFO Device Connection (3), (30) represents the electrical ground female receiving slot, for receiving a corresponding electrical prong having a fiber optic line therein. Reference Numeral (32) represents the electrical line female receiving slot, and (33) represents the electrical neutral female receiving slot, all of which are encased within the ACFO Device Receptacle Casing (34). With further reference to Figure 10, the fiber optic connector (27) is at an end of the power cable (4), the cord being encased in protective 0 material or jacket (26) such as rubber, for example, and insulating material (25). Of course, also provided are electrical line (22), electrical neutral line (23), and electrical ground line (24). The fiber optic connector (27) will, of course, provide the fiber optic link between the ACFO Power Cord Device Receptacle and the ACFO Power Cord. The ACFO Device Receptacle (3), essentially, completes the closed circuit to provide the fiber optic link between the ACFO Power 5 Cord and the ACFO Receptacle.
With reference to Figure 13, in connecting the AFCO Plug (5) to the ACFO
Receptacle (7), the spring loaded mechanical securing device (56) can provide a secure mechanical connection between the AFCO Plug (5) and the ACFO Receptacle (7). As the user pushes the '.0 ACFO Plug (5) to abut the ground prong (51) having the fiber optic line (50) therein, and, in making the connection, biases the spring (58) to compress, as can be seen in Figure 13, whereby sufficient tension is provided to cause an end of the fiber optic line of the ground prong (shown generally as termination point "52" in Figure 13) comes into contact with and abuts to the fiber optic conductor provided by the Fiber Optic Connector (59) which as been secured in the back of 'S the ACFO Receptacle. In this manner, the positive pressure created by virtue of this connection being spring loaded keeps these joined together.
The present invention has been described herein with regard to preferred embodiments.
However, it will be obvious to persons skilled in the art that a number of variations and f 0 modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention as described herein.
Claims (4)
1. A system for providing an electrical and fiber optic connection between Electronic Devices and ACFO Receptacles in a building comprising the steps of:
(a) installing an optical converter or transmitter within the building, whereby an incoming communications signal to the building can be converted by the optical converter or transmitter to a transferable fiber optic communications signal;
(b) securing fiber optic connectors to the ACFO Receptacles in the building so as to conduct the converted transferable fiber optic communications signal; and (c) connecting an ACFO Power Cord to each of the Electronic Devices and the ACFO
Receptacles, the ACFO Power Cord having at least two conductors therein for conducting electrical signals and electrical power, and at least one conductor for conducting the fiber optic communications signal, whereby, when the AFCO Power Cord is connected between the Electronic Devices and the ACFO Receptacles, the electrical and fiber optic connection is established for transferring electrical power and the fiber optic communications signal there between.
(a) installing an optical converter or transmitter within the building, whereby an incoming communications signal to the building can be converted by the optical converter or transmitter to a transferable fiber optic communications signal;
(b) securing fiber optic connectors to the ACFO Receptacles in the building so as to conduct the converted transferable fiber optic communications signal; and (c) connecting an ACFO Power Cord to each of the Electronic Devices and the ACFO
Receptacles, the ACFO Power Cord having at least two conductors therein for conducting electrical signals and electrical power, and at least one conductor for conducting the fiber optic communications signal, whereby, when the AFCO Power Cord is connected between the Electronic Devices and the ACFO Receptacles, the electrical and fiber optic connection is established for transferring electrical power and the fiber optic communications signal there between.
2. A system for providing an electrical and fiber optic connection between Electronic Devices and ACFO Receptacles in a building comprising the steps of:
(a) installing a copper to fiber optic converter within the building, whereby an incoming electrical communications signal to the building can be converted by the copper to fiber optic converter to a transferable fiber optic communications signal;
(b) securing fiber optic connectors to the ACFO Receptacles in the building so as to conduct the converted transferable fiber optic communications; and (c) connecting an ACFO Power Cord to each of the Electronic Devices and the ACFO
Receptacles, the ACFO Power Cord having at least two conductors therein for conducting electrical signals, and at least one conductor for conducting the fiber optic communications signal, whereby, when the AFCO Power Cord is connected between the Electronic Devices and the ACFO Receptacles, the electrical and fiber optic connection is established for transferring electrical power and the fiber optic communications signal there between.
(a) installing a copper to fiber optic converter within the building, whereby an incoming electrical communications signal to the building can be converted by the copper to fiber optic converter to a transferable fiber optic communications signal;
(b) securing fiber optic connectors to the ACFO Receptacles in the building so as to conduct the converted transferable fiber optic communications; and (c) connecting an ACFO Power Cord to each of the Electronic Devices and the ACFO
Receptacles, the ACFO Power Cord having at least two conductors therein for conducting electrical signals, and at least one conductor for conducting the fiber optic communications signal, whereby, when the AFCO Power Cord is connected between the Electronic Devices and the ACFO Receptacles, the electrical and fiber optic connection is established for transferring electrical power and the fiber optic communications signal there between.
3. A system for providing an electrical and fiber optic connection between Electronic Devices and ACFO Receptacles in a building comprising the steps of:
(a) securing fiber optic connectors to the ACFO Receptacles in the building so as to be operable able to receive and conduct the converted transferable fiber optic communications signal;
(b) installing an optical converter or transmitter within the building, whereby an incoming communications signal to the building can be converted by the optical converter or transmitter to a transferable fiber optic communications signal;
(c) routing the transferable fiber optic communications signal from the optical converter or transmitter to the ACFO Receptacles; and (d) connecting an ACFO Power Cord having a power cord plug at one end and a device connector at the opposite end, the power cord being placed between the Electronic Devices and the ACFO Receptacles, wherein the power cord plug is connected into the ACFO Receptacles and the device connector is attached to the Electronic Devices, and wherein the ACFO Power Cord has at least two conductors therein for conducting electrical signals and electrical power, and one conductor for conducting the fiber optic communications signal, whereby, when the AFCO Power Cord is connected between the Electronic Devices and the ACFO Receptacles, the electrical and fiber optic connection is established for transferring the electrical signals and electrical power and the fiber optic communications signal there between.
(a) securing fiber optic connectors to the ACFO Receptacles in the building so as to be operable able to receive and conduct the converted transferable fiber optic communications signal;
(b) installing an optical converter or transmitter within the building, whereby an incoming communications signal to the building can be converted by the optical converter or transmitter to a transferable fiber optic communications signal;
(c) routing the transferable fiber optic communications signal from the optical converter or transmitter to the ACFO Receptacles; and (d) connecting an ACFO Power Cord having a power cord plug at one end and a device connector at the opposite end, the power cord being placed between the Electronic Devices and the ACFO Receptacles, wherein the power cord plug is connected into the ACFO Receptacles and the device connector is attached to the Electronic Devices, and wherein the ACFO Power Cord has at least two conductors therein for conducting electrical signals and electrical power, and one conductor for conducting the fiber optic communications signal, whereby, when the AFCO Power Cord is connected between the Electronic Devices and the ACFO Receptacles, the electrical and fiber optic connection is established for transferring the electrical signals and electrical power and the fiber optic communications signal there between.
4. The system of claim 3, wherein a fiber optic link having ST connectors is attached between the device connector ACFO Power Cord and the Electronic Device, whereby the fiber optic communications signal can be converted into an electrical or digital signal for use by the electronic devices.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002503182A CA2503182A1 (en) | 2005-04-19 | 2005-04-19 | A system for establishing fiber optic connectivity between electrical and electronic devices and an ac receptacle in a building |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002503182A CA2503182A1 (en) | 2005-04-19 | 2005-04-19 | A system for establishing fiber optic connectivity between electrical and electronic devices and an ac receptacle in a building |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2503182A1 true CA2503182A1 (en) | 2006-10-19 |
Family
ID=37114119
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002503182A Abandoned CA2503182A1 (en) | 2005-04-19 | 2005-04-19 | A system for establishing fiber optic connectivity between electrical and electronic devices and an ac receptacle in a building |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2503182A1 (en) |
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EP2253980A1 (en) * | 2009-05-23 | 2010-11-24 | CCS Technology Inc. | Radio-over-fiber optical fiber cable system and cable of the same |
-
2005
- 2005-04-19 CA CA002503182A patent/CA2503182A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EP2253980A1 (en) * | 2009-05-23 | 2010-11-24 | CCS Technology Inc. | Radio-over-fiber optical fiber cable system and cable of the same |
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