With Strength Member Patents (Class 385/113)
  • Patent number: 8290320
    Abstract: An example fiber optic cable includes an outer jacket having an elongated transverse cross-sectional profile defining a major axis and a minor axis. The transverse cross-sectional profile has a maximum width that extends along the major axis and a maximum thickness that extends along the minor axis. The maximum width of the transverse cross-sectional profile is longer than the maximum thickness of the transverse cross-sectional profile. The outer jacket also defines first and second separate passages that extend through the outer jacket along a lengthwise axis of the outer jacket. The second passage has a transverse cross-sectional profile that is elongated in an orientation extending along the major axis of the outer jacket. The fiber optic cable also includes a plurality of optical fibers positioned within the first passage a tensile strength member positioned within the second passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Assignee: ADC Telecommunications, Inc.
    Inventor: Wayne M. Kachmar
  • Patent number: 8285096
    Abstract: Fiber optic cable assemblies and related components, securing methods, and fiber optic cable preparation methods for securing of a fiber optic cable to a retention body and/or fiber optic connector are disclosed. An end portion of the fiber optic cable is prepared and inserted into a retention body or the like for securing the cable to the same. In one embodiment, a partially exposed portion of a strength component and a portion of a cable jacket are secured to a retention body while another portion of the strength component remains secured to the cable jacket. In this manner, the fiber optic cable is secured to the retention body while the strength component and the cable jacket also remain secured to each other for providing strain relief.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: Corning Cable Systems LLC
    Inventors: Casey A. Coleman, Thomas Theuerkorn
  • Publication number: 20120243841
    Abstract: Micromodule subunit cables are constructed to allow for ease of identification between optical fibers in differing groups of optical fibers. In one cable, a first group of fibers is located within a first subunit while a second group of fibers is located within a second subunit, both subunits being enclosed in a cable jacket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2012
    Publication date: September 27, 2012
    Inventors: William C. Hurley, Samuel D. Navé
  • Publication number: 20120213483
    Abstract: An optical-fiber interconnect cable includes one or more optical fibers and one or more electrical conductors surrounded by an outer jacket. The optical fibers, such a multimode optical fibers, are typically enclosed within a flexible polymeric tube to form a flexible subunit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 21, 2012
    Publication date: August 23, 2012
    Applicant: DRAKA COMTEQ B.V.
    Inventors: Brian G. Risch, John C. Rosko, Olivier Tatat
  • Patent number: 8238706
    Abstract: An example fiber optic cable includes an outer jacket having an elongated transverse cross-sectional profile defining a bowtie shape. The outer jacket defines at least first and second separate passages that extend through the outer jacket along a lengthwise axis of the outer jacket. The fiber optic cable includes a plurality of optical fibers positioned within the first passage and a tensile strength member positioned within the second passage. The tensile strength member has a highly flexible construction and a transverse cross-sectional profile that is elongated in the orientation extending along the major axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: ADC Telecommunications, Inc.
    Inventor: Wayne M. Kachmar
  • Publication number: 20120177331
    Abstract: An optical fiber cable comprising a polymeric jacket and at least one elongated buffer tube having a substantially circular cross-section and at least one optical fiber disposed within the at least one buffer tube. The optical fiber cable further comprises at least one dummy rod having a substantially non-circular cross-section, wherein the cross-sectional area of each dummy rod is at least 10% less than the cross-sectional area of the at least one elongated buffer tube along a majority of the length of the at least one dummy rod.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2009
    Publication date: July 12, 2012
    Inventors: Ben Wells, Glenn Falk
  • Publication number: 20120155815
    Abstract: Cables having non-stripping, or buffer-free, optical fibers are disclosed. The cables each have a buffer-free optical fiber including a core, cladding layer and a thin protective coating enclosing the cladding and having an overall diameter of 125 ?m. This protective coating protects the cladding and core from moisture and provides structural integrity to prevent physical damage to the fiber during installation and termination with connectors. Embodiments of this non-stripping fiber do not require removal of a buffer layer during field termination so connections can be formed using simple cleaving techniques. As such, the field termination process for embodiments is simplified compared with conventional approaches.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2011
    Publication date: June 21, 2012
    Inventor: Shing-Wu Paul Tzeng
  • Publication number: 20120134635
    Abstract: An optical cable includes a buffer tube housing at least one optical fiber, a sheath surrounding such buffer tube and at least one longitudinal strength member embedded in the sheath, in which at least one separation element is provided between a portion of the outer surface of the buffer tube and the inner surface of the sheath, laying in an axial plane not containing the at least one strength member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 16, 2009
    Publication date: May 31, 2012
    Inventors: Martin Davies, Simon James Frampton, Roger Pike, Ralph Sutehall
  • Publication number: 20120134634
    Abstract: A fiber optic cable is provided with a plurality of buffer tubes each with one or more optical fibers, a plurality of strength members and a jacket. The fibers within the cable meet maximum attenuation of substantially 0.07 db increase when decreasing from ?23° C. to ?60° C.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2010
    Publication date: May 31, 2012
    Inventors: David Keller, Paul Kroushl, Randie Yoder, Dan Rouse
  • Patent number: 8189974
    Abstract: An optical fiber cable 1 includes: a cable core 9 formed by stranding a plurality of loose tubes 7, each housing at least one optical fiber 5, on the periphery of a centered tension member 3; and a sheath 11 disposed on the outer periphery of the cable core 9. The sheath 11 includes: a first sheath portion 13 in which the sheath is embedded in between each of the loose tubes 7; and a second sheath portion 15, in which the sheath 11 is circumscribed around the cable core 9, to be thereby formed in a pipe shape. The first sheath portion 13 and the second sheath portion 15 are alternately positioned over the entire length of the cable core 9.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Assignee: Fujikura Ltd.
    Inventors: Yoshio Hashimoto, Naoki Okada
  • Patent number: 8184934
    Abstract: A fiber optic cable having a jacket, at least one tube and at least two fibers within the tube in a loose tube arrangement. The fibers within the tube have a fiber length differential substantially in the range of 0.01%-0.04%.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Assignee: Nexans
    Inventors: David Keller, Norman Andrew Punch, Jr., Jerry Freeman, Bulent Kose, Jeff Rosenquist, Lisa Huff, Alfred Flores
  • Patent number: 8184935
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a fiber optic cable including an outer jacket having an elongated transverse cross-sectional profile defining a major axis and a minor axis. The transverse cross-sectional profile has a maximum width that extends along the major axis and a maximum thickness that extends along the minor axis. The maximum width of the transverse cross-sectional profile is longer than the maximum thickness of the transverse cross-sectional profile. The outer jacket also defines first, second and third separate passages that extend through the outer jacket along a lengthwise axis of the outer jacket. The third passage has a transverse cross-sectional profile that is elongated in an orientation extending along the major axis of the outer jacket. The first, second and third passages are generally aligned along the major axis with the third passage being positioned between the first and second passages.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Assignee: ADC Telecommunications, Inc.
    Inventor: Wayne M. Kachmar
  • Patent number: 8175434
    Abstract: An all-dielectric self-supporting optical fiber cable utilizes a single layer reverse oscillated lay (ROL) design and includes a fiber count of more than 288 fibers. By arranging buffer tubes in a single layer, the ADSS cable effectively isolates the tensile and thermo strain of the cable in central and outer strength members, thus preventing strain from aerial installation from impairing or otherwise inversely impacting the performance of the optical fibers. Moreover, fibers are loosely housed in bundles to permit fiber movement and further prevent strain on the fibers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2012
    Assignee: Prysmian Communication Cables and Systems USA, LLC
    Inventors: Grant M. Davidson, William E. Wolfe, Ben H. Wells
  • Publication number: 20120099825
    Abstract: A fiber-optic cable for applications subject to extreme temperatures and high crushing and bending forces incorporating a loose fluoropolymer buffer material, a aramid/fiberglass strength member, and a fluoropolymer outer jacket compromising low smoke, low toxicity, and low flammability when exposed to flame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2010
    Publication date: April 26, 2012
    Inventor: Mark Alexander Messer
  • Patent number: 8165439
    Abstract: Disclosed is an improved optical fiber that employs a novel coating system. When combined with a bend-insensitive glass fiber, the novel coating system according to the present invention yields an optical fiber having exceptionally low losses. The coating system features (i) a softer primary coating with excellent low-temperature characteristics to protect against microbending in any environment and in the toughest physical situations and, optionally, (ii) a colored secondary coating possessing enhanced color strength and vividness. The improved coating system provides optical fibers that are useful in all-dielectric self-supporting (ADSS) cables.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Assignee: Draka Comteq, B.V.
    Inventor: Bob J. Overton
  • Patent number: 8147147
    Abstract: A junction box and hybrid fiber optic cable connector which permit repair of damaged fibers or copper conductors carried by a hybrid fiber/copper cable without requiring replacement of the entire cable assembly or retermination of the cable. A method of repairing a hybrid fiber/copper cable and connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: ADC Telecommunications, Inc.
    Inventors: M'hamed Anis Khemakhem, Dean Michael Rosenthal, Duane Sand, Jeffery Louis Peters, Joy K. McKnight, Ross Heggestad, Patrick Jude Nault, Foad Abdulkadir Mohamed Ahmed
  • Patent number: 8145021
    Abstract: Disclosed is a cable for use in a concentrating photovoltaic module. The cable includes at least one strand wrapped with an optically pervious or reflective sheath. The pervious sheath is made of a material that exhibits a penetration rate of 90% and survives a temperature of at least 140 degrees Celsius. The reflective sheath is made of a material that exhibits a reflection rate of 95% and survives a temperature of at least 140 degrees Celsius. The cable is used to connect an anode of the concentrating photovoltaic module to a cathode of the same. The material of the reflective sheath may be isolating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Assignee: Atomic Energy Council-Institute of Nuclear Research
    Inventors: Yi-Ping Liang, Kuo-Hsin Lin, Hwen-Fen Hong, Hwa-Yuh Shin, Cherng-Tsong Kuo
  • Publication number: 20120051702
    Abstract: An armored cable having a polymer covering where the bond between the armor and the covering is controlled by introducing particulate matter at the interface of the armor and covering. A filler material is applied to the exterior surfaces of the cable strength elements in order to inhibit the formation of voids in the polymer covering that would otherwise promote water migration along the cable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 11, 2011
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Inventors: Bradley J. Blazer, Jason C. Lail
  • Publication number: 20120045186
    Abstract: A cable, of the twisted pair or fiber optic type, includes conductors for permitting patch cord tracing between ports. In the case of a twisted pair cable, the conductors may be embedded within, or attached to a surface of, a separator. Alternatively, in the case of a twisted pair cable, the conductors may be embedded within, or attached to a surface of, a jacket. In the case of a fiber optic cable, the conductors may be located amongst strength members. Alternatively, in the case of a fiber optic cable, the conductors may be embedded within, or attached to a surface of, a jacket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2011
    Publication date: February 23, 2012
    Inventors: Robert A. WESSELS, JR., Trent M. HAYES
  • Patent number: 8107781
    Abstract: A fiber optic cable assembly includes an optical fiber, a strength layer surrounding the optical fiber and an outer jacket surrounding the strength layer. The outer jacket includes a base material having a Shore D Hardness of at least 85 and liquid crystal polymer embedded in the base material. The liquid crystal polymer constitutes less than 2% of the outer jacket by weight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: ADC Telecommunications, Inc.
    Inventors: Wayne M. Kachmar, Ronald J. Kleckowski
  • Publication number: 20110293229
    Abstract: Interconnect cables utilize bend-insensitive fibers and relatively large free space areas in the cable jackets to reduce bend-induced delta attenuation. Tensile yarns can be included as strain-relief components, but can be relatively loosely packed in order to inhibit bend-induced attenuation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 11, 2011
    Publication date: December 1, 2011
    Inventors: William C. Hurley, Curtis P. Queen
  • Publication number: 20110293230
    Abstract: An optical fiber cable includes at least one buffer tube that includes a plurality of water-blocking plugs and an optical fiber. The water-blocking plugs can be spaced along the buffer tubes, substantially filling the cross-sectional space within the buffer tube not already filled by the optical fiber. The water-blocking plugs can provide a stronger bond between the optical fibers and the inner tube. This is reflected by a high normalized pullout force for the optical fiber, such as, above 5.0 N/m. Yet, the resulting fiber optic cable does not suffer from problems associated with a higher pullout force, such as attenuation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2008
    Publication date: December 1, 2011
    Inventors: Ben Wells, John Sach, Martin Hanchard, Grant Davidson
  • Publication number: 20110286707
    Abstract: An example fiber optic cable includes an outer jacket having an elongated transverse cross-sectional profile defining a bowtie shape. The outer jacket defines at least first and second separate passages that extend through the outer jacket along a lengthwise axis of the outer jacket. The fiber optic cable includes a plurality of optical fibers positioned within the first passage and a tensile strength member positioned within the second passage. The tensile strength member has a highly flexible construction and a transverse cross-sectional profile that is elongated in the orientation extending along the major axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2011
    Publication date: November 24, 2011
    Applicant: ADC TELECOMMUNICATIONS, INC.
    Inventor: Wayne M. Kachmar
  • Publication number: 20110268400
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a data-center cable having good attenuation performance both at room temperature and during temperature cycling, as well as good resistance to compression.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2011
    Publication date: November 3, 2011
    Applicant: DRAKA COMTEQ B.V.
    Inventors: Raymond G. Lovie, Justin Elisha Quinn
  • Publication number: 20110262089
    Abstract: A small-diameter high bending-resistance fiber optic cable adapted for obtaining a high tensile-resistance and a high bending-resistance is provided. The small-diameter high bending-resistance fiber optic cable is particularly adapted for being deployed in indoor pipelines. The small-diameter high bending-resistance fiber optic cable includes at least one optical fiber core, an outer protection sheath, and a plurality of tensile-resistance members. The optical fiber core is positioned in a center of the outer protection sheath. The tensile-resistance members are uniformly distributed in the outer protection sheath. The tensile-resistance members are made of aramid yarn material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2010
    Publication date: October 27, 2011
    Inventor: KUANG-BANG HSU
  • Publication number: 20110262086
    Abstract: Disclosed is an extensible optical signal transmission cable having an extensity of 10% or more and an optical transmission loss of less than 20 dB/m when the cable is loosened. The cable comprises an elastic cylinder having the extensity of 10% or more and at least one optical fiber wound around the elastic cylinder. The optical fiber has a bending diameter (R) which is not smaller than the bending limit diameter (Re). The extensible optical signal transmission cable is compliant with shape deformation, can transmit an optical signal when the cable is extended or contracted, and can be used in repetitive extension and contraction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 25, 2009
    Publication date: October 27, 2011
    Inventors: Shunji Tatsumi, Hiroyuki Makino
  • Patent number: 8045833
    Abstract: Shear thickening compositions can function in an energy or communications transmission cable to provide enhanced protection against externally applied forces, e.g., cutting or puncture from a shovel. As a free or bound layer, or when used via impregnation into a substrate used for an internal component or wrap, the shear thickening composition provides protection against mechanical damage that far surpasses conventional technologies. In foamable compositions for cable components, the shear thickening composition provides enhanced integrity of the polymer melt for enhanced foam performance. As a flame retardant component, the shear thickening composition provides an enhanced char formation mechanism for superior flame retardance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2011
    Assignee: Union Carbide Chemials & Plastics Technology LLC
    Inventors: Scott H. Wasserman, Jeffrey M. Cogen, Timothy J. Person, Laurence H. Gross
  • Patent number: 8041168
    Abstract: Disclosed is an improved optical fiber that employs a novel coating system. When combined with a bend-insensitive glass fiber, the novel coating system according to the present invention yields an optical fiber having exceptionally low losses. The coating system features (i) a softer primary coating with excellent low-temperature characteristics to protect against microbending in any environment and in the toughest physical situations and, optionally, (ii) a colored secondary coating possessing enhanced color strength and vividness. The secondary coating provides improved ribbon characteristics for structures that are robust, yet easily entered (i.e., separated and stripped). The optional dual coating is specifically balanced for superior heat stripping in fiber ribbons, with virtually no residue left behind on the glass. This facilitates fast splicing and terminations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Assignee: Draka Comteq, B.V.
    Inventor: Bob J. Overton
  • Patent number: 8041166
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a fiber optic cable including an outer jacket having an elongated transverse cross-sectional profile defining a major axis and a minor axis. The transverse cross-sectional profile has a maximum width that extends along the major axis and a maximum thickness that extends along the minor axis. The maximum width of the transverse cross-sectional profile is longer than the maximum thickness of the transverse cross-sectional profile. The outer jacket also defines first and second separate passages that extend through the outer jacket along a lengthwise axis of the outer jacket. The second passage has a transverse cross-sectional profile that is elongated in an orientation extending along the major axis of the outer jacket. The fiber optic cable also includes a plurality of optical fibers positioned within the first passage a tensile strength member positioned within the second passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Assignee: ADC Telecommunications, Inc.
    Inventor: Wayne M. Kachmar
  • Publication number: 20110243515
    Abstract: Described are new cable designs for indoor installations wherein the cable comprises a dual-layer optical fiber buffer encasement of acrylate resin. The buffer encasement has an acrylate compliant inner layer that protects the fiber and minimizes stress transfer to the fiber; and a hard, tough acrylate outer layer that provides crush resistance. The dual-layer optical fiber buffer encasement is wrapped with reinforcing yarn and encased in an outer protective jacket. A dual jacket embodiment adapted for indoor/outdoor installations is also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 6, 2010
    Publication date: October 6, 2011
    Inventors: Kelvin B. Bradley, Mark G. Graveston, Jason Pedder, Peter A. Weimann
  • Patent number: 8031996
    Abstract: A method for making a flexible fibrous continuous tape containing 60 to 98 wt % fiber based on the weight of the tape, from multifilament yarn selected from aramid, glass, aromatic polyester, and rigid rod polymer, comprising the steps: a1) spreading the filaments of the yarn to obtain a filament layer having a cross sectional aspect ratio (w/h) of 2 to 2000; and b1) treating the spread filaments with a curable resin, or a liquid thermoplastic resin or wax; or a2) treating the yarn with the curable resin, or the liquid thermoplastic resin or wax; and b2) spreading the filaments of the yarn to obtain a filament layer having a cross sectional aspect ratio (w/h) of 2 to 2000; followed by c) fixating the filaments by curing or solidifying the resin to obtain the tape, wherein steps a1-b1, respectively a2-b2, and c are performed in-line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Assignee: Teijin Aramid B.V.
    Inventors: Stef Willemsen, Peter Gerard Akker, Huibert Cornelis Kwint, Adrianus Johannus Wilhelmus Van Haren
  • Patent number: 8031997
    Abstract: Disclosed is an improved optical fiber that employs a novel coating system. When combined with a bend-insensitive glass fiber, the novel coating system according to the present invention yields an optical fiber having exceptionally low losses. The coating system features (i) a softer primary coating with excellent low-temperature characteristics to protect against microbending in any environment and in the toughest physical situations and, optionally, (ii) a colored secondary coating possessing enhanced color strength and vividness. The improved coating system provides optical fibers that are useful in relatively thin-walled, low-modulus buffer tubes (i.e., “flextubes”) that can be readily accessed without special tools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Assignee: Draka Comteq, B.V.
    Inventor: Bob J. Overton
  • Publication number: 20110229097
    Abstract: Methods of controlling the position of an optical fiber having a minimum bend radius within an optical fiber channel in a fiber optic cable having a small footprint are disclosed. The position of the optical fibers is controlled so that the fiber is not bent at a radius below its minimum bend radius.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 16, 2011
    Publication date: September 22, 2011
    Inventors: Reginald Roberts, James A. Register, III
  • Patent number: 8023787
    Abstract: An optical drop cable includes optical fiber cores, tension-resistant members, and a single-material outer sheath covering the cores and the tension-resistant members. The bark of a young tree has elasticity, so that if cicadas lay eggs in the bark, the holes in which eggs are laid close and the eggs will not hatch. Cicadas cannot stick their ovipositors into bark having abrasion resistance. Thus, the outer sheath is made of polyurethane resin having rebound resilience equivalent to that of the bark of a young tree, and having high abrasion resistance. By making the outer sheath from such resin having elasticity and abrasion resistance, holes in which eggs are laid close, thus making hatching of the eggs impossible, or cicadas cannot stick their ovipositors into the outer sheaths. Black cicadas will therefore not lay eggs in the outer sheath, preventing damage to or breakage of the optical fiber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Tatsuta Electric Wire & Cable Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Toshiaki Katsuya, Masaji Asano, Kiyotaka Urashita, Daisuke Yoshimura
  • Patent number: 8023786
    Abstract: In order to improve a cable, comprising an inner cable body, in which at least one conductor strand of an optical and/or electrical conductor runs in the longitudinal direction of the cable, an outer cable sheath, enclosing the inner cable body and lying between an outer sheath surface of the cable and the inner cable body, and at least one information carrier unit, disposed within the outer sheath surface of the cable such that the cable also comprises a shielding, the invention proposes that the information carrier unit having an antenna unit lying in an antenna surface running approximately parallel to the longitudinal direction of the cable, by the antenna surface running at a distance from an electrical shielding of the cable and by providing, between the antenna surface and the shielding, a spacing layer, in which the electromagnetic field that couples to the antenna unit and passes through the antenna surface can extend between the antenna unit and the shielding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Lapp Engineering & Co.
    Inventor: Siegbert Lapp
  • Publication number: 20110222826
    Abstract: A strain-relief member having a body formed from a block copolymer and designed for use in a fiber optic drop cable assembly. The body has a central channel and a cylindrical connector-end portion sized to surround an end-portion of a connector. The body also has a tapered cable-end portion sized to surround an end portion of a fiber optic cable that connects to the connector and that has a preferential bend axis. The strain-relief member is configured to limit an amount of strain in the strength components to less than 0.041 when subjected to flex and proof testing. A fiber optic drop cable assembly that has a fiber optic cable with a preferential bend axis and that employs the strain-relief member is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2010
    Publication date: September 15, 2011
    Inventors: James D. Blackburn, Mary C. Corpening, Gregory A. Lochkovic, Allen M. Miller, Thomas Theuerkorn
  • Publication number: 20110217010
    Abstract: A fiber optic cable assembly includes an outer jacket defining a first passage and a second passage disposed adjacent to the first passage. The outer jacket includes a wall disposed between an outer surface of the outer jacket and the first passage. A plurality of optical fibers is disposed in the first passage. A reinforcing member is disposed in the second passage. An access member is disposed in the wall of the outer jacket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 2, 2011
    Publication date: September 8, 2011
    Applicant: ADC TELECOMMUNICATIONS, INC.
    Inventor: Wayne M. Kachmar
  • Patent number: 8000573
    Abstract: Generic tow lead-in for streamers providing communication between the seismic systems and the streamers, consisting of at least four wire power quad, at least four multimode optical fibers and at least one signal pair, where the at least one signal line do not utilize a screen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Inventor: Phil Roscoe
  • Publication number: 20110176782
    Abstract: The present invention provides optical-fiber communication cables with an improved water-blocking element that reduces or eliminates microbending caused by water-swellable particulate powders. In one embodiment, such water-swellable powders may be employed in conjunction with a smooth water-soluble carrier tape. In another embodiment, such water-swellable powders may embedded within a water-soluble binder. The water-blocking element is deployed within optical-fiber buffer tubes to water-block the buffer tubes and to minimize microbending that can occur when water-swellable particulate powders press against optical fibers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2011
    Publication date: July 21, 2011
    Applicant: DRAKA COMTEQ, B.V.
    Inventor: Don Parris
  • Patent number: 7974507
    Abstract: Disclosed is a fiber-optic cable that possesses a high cable filling coefficient (and/or a high cable fiber density) yet ensures that its enclosed optical fibers demonstrate improved attenuation performance when subjected to temperature variations between about ?40° C. and 70° C. The fiber-optic cable is suitable for efficient installation into ducts, such as via blowing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: Draka Comteq, B.V.
    Inventors: Ray Lovie, Jeffrey Scott Barker, William Mark Smartt, Bob J. Overton
  • Patent number: 7945133
    Abstract: A fiber optic cable assembly with a floating tap is disclosed, wherein the assembly comprises a fiber optic cable having a cable fiber assembly, such as in the form of a ribbon stack. The assembly includes at least one network access point (NAP) for accessing at least one cable fiber in the cable fiber assembly and at least one strength area for example a strength member. At least one cable fiber is extracted from the cable fiber assembly and held by a transition assembly. A buffer conduit loosely contains the at least one cable fiber and guides it to an intermediate buffer conduit, which in turn guides the at least one cable fiber to a splice tube. The intermediate buffer conduit can translate relative to the splice tube. At least one tether fiber is spliced to the at least one cable fiber. Alternatively, the at least one cable fiber has sufficient length to serve as the at least one tether fiber so that splicing to another fiber is not required. Each strength member is covered by a movable member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2011
    Assignee: Corning Cable Systems LLC
    Inventors: Joseph T. Cody, Dennis M. Knecht, Christopher P. Lewallen, James P. Luther
  • Patent number: 7933481
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an optical cable comprising one or more optical waveguides, which one or more optical waveguides are provided with a protective layer, a buffer tube surrounding said one or more optical waveguides, which buffer tube is surrounded by an outer sheath, while a radial interspace is present between said outer sheath and said buffer tube, which radial interspace is filled with a filler.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2011
    Assignee: Draka Comteq B.V.
    Inventors: Kees Van Trigt, Arnoldus Gertrudis Wilhelmus Berkers, Mijndert Doorn, Erik Versteeg
  • Publication number: 20110091173
    Abstract: A fiber optic jumper cable having a central axis includes a bend-resistant multimode optical fiber generally arranged along the central axis. A tensile-strength layer surrounds the bend-resistant optical fiber. A protective cover surrounds the tensile-strength layer and has an outside diameter DO in the range 1.6 mm?DO?4 mm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2009
    Publication date: April 21, 2011
    Inventor: James A. Register, III
  • Publication number: 20110091172
    Abstract: Fiber optic cable assemblies and related components, securing methods, and fiber optic cable preparation methods for securing of a fiber optic cable to a retention body and/or fiber optic connector are disclosed. An end portion of the fiber optic cable is prepared and inserted into a retention body or the like for securing the cable to the same. In one embodiment, a partially exposed portion of a strength component and a portion of a cable jacket are secured to a retention body while another portion of the strength component remains secured to the cable jacket. In this manner, the fiber optic cable is secured to the retention body while the strength component and the cable jacket also remain secured to each other for providing strain relief.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2008
    Publication date: April 21, 2011
    Inventors: Casey A. Coleman, Thomas Theuerkorn
  • Publication number: 20110091174
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a fiber optic cable including an outer jacket having an elongated transverse cross-sectional profile defining a major axis and a minor axis. The transverse cross-sectional profile has a maximum width that extends along the major axis and a maximum thickness that extends along the minor axis. The maximum width of the transverse cross-sectional profile is longer than the maximum thickness of the transverse cross-sectional profile. The outer jacket also defines first, second and third separate passages that extend through the outer jacket along a lengthwise axis of the outer jacket. The third passage has a transverse cross-sectional profile that is elongated in an orientation extending along the major axis of the outer jacket. The first, second and third passages are generally aligned along the major axis with the third passage being positioned between the first and second passages.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2010
    Publication date: April 21, 2011
    Applicant: ADC TELECOMMUNICATIONS, INC.
    Inventor: Wayne M. Kachmar
  • Publication number: 20110075980
    Abstract: Armored fiber optic assemblies and methods are disclosed that include a dielectric armor and at least one bend-resistant multimode optical fiber. The dielectric armor has an armor profile, thereby resembling conventional metal armored cable to the craft. The dielectric armor provides additional crush and impact resistance and the like for the optical fibers and/or fiber optic assembly therein. The dielectric armor is advantageous to the craft since it provides the desired mechanical performance without requiring the time and expense of grounding like conventional metal armored cables. Additionally, the armored fiber optic assemblies can have any suitable flame and/or smoke rating for meeting the requirements of the intended space. The use of at least one bend-resistant multimode optical fiber allows for improved bend performance for the armored fiber optic assemblies, allowing for tighter cable routing as compared to armored fiber optic assemblies having conventional multimode optical fiber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2010
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Inventor: James A. Register, III
  • Patent number: 7903915
    Abstract: A cable is provided including an inner member, an outer member and an intermediate member. The intermediate member may be positioned between the inner member and the outer member and include a number of disconnection sections spaced apart from one another. In some cases, the cable may include two or more inner members. In addition, a method for preparing an end of a cable may be provided, including the steps of removing a portion of an outer member of the cable and applying a tensile force to an intermediate member of the cable comprising a plurality of disconnection sections. The intermediate member of the cable may be sheared at one of the plurality of disconnection sections, thereby exposing a portion of an inner member of the cable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Ramaswamy Meyyappan, Michael Alff, Arunkumar Arumugam
  • Publication number: 20110038586
    Abstract: A fiber optic cable has at least one fiber and at least one buffer tube surrounding the fiber, with the fiber being loosely held within the buffer tube. A jacket surrounds the tube where the at least one buffer tube is constructed from an extruded transparent polymer, allowing the arrangement of the fiber within the buffer tube to be visible along the entire length of the tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 16, 2010
    Publication date: February 17, 2011
    Inventor: David Keller
  • Patent number: 7881576
    Abstract: A preconnectorized outdoor cable streamlines the deployment of optical waveguides into the last mile of an optical network. The preconnectorized outdoor cable includes a cable and at least one plug connector. The plug connector is attached to a first end of the cable, thereby connectorizing at least one optical waveguide. The cable has at least one optical waveguide, at least one tensile element, and a cable jacket. Various cable designs such as figure-eight or flat cables may be used with the plug connector. In preferred embodiments, the plug connector includes a crimp assembly having a crimp housing and a crimp band. The crimp housing has two half-shells being held together by the crimp band for securing the at least one tensile element. When fully assembled, the crimp housing fits into a shroud of the preconnectorized cable. The shroud aids in mating the preconnectorized cable with a complimentary receptacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Assignee: Corning Cable Systems LLC
    Inventors: Stuart R. Melton, Hieu V. Tran, David A. Thompson, Richard S. Wagman, Michael J. Gimblet, Xin Liu
  • Publication number: 20110013873
    Abstract: A fiber optic cable has at least two round strength members, at least one fiber optic element, with the strength members and the fiber optic element forms a core. A jacket surrounds the core elements. The strength members are arranged side by side within the jacket such that the inside diameter of the jacket is substantially equal to the combined diameters of the two round strength members and where within the jacket there are two voids not filled by the round strength members. The at least one fiber optic element is positioned in one of the voids the round strength members is dimensioned such that when the fiber optic element is within the void, it does not reach the inside surface of the jacket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 14, 2009
    Publication date: January 20, 2011
    Inventor: David Keller