Abstract: An array through a first to a second side of a three-sided junction, accessed remotely by a single mode fiber transmits a light pulse sequence to the array and receives sound modulated return light signals via the second to a third side of the junction. Within each hydrophone, butt coupled fiber joints form a continuous structure, encapsulated within a compressible plastic tube for mechanical stability. Tube volume expands and contracts linearly with variations in acoustic pressure thereby proportionally modulating the optical path therethrough. Each joint is a partial reflector reflects part of the incident light beam back via the second to third side of the junction to a posthydrophone compensating interferometer which compensates for path difference between equally spaced array joints; From the third side of the junction the reflections from the butt coupled fiber joints pass through a light detector and signal processor.

Abstract: A hydrodynamic cable deployment system suitable for deploying cable from a oil on a moving underwater vessel is disclosed. The present invention provides hydrodynamic assist means for cooperation with a system for the deployment of a cable tether used for communication between a marine vessel and an expendable or non-expendable device launched therefrom by providing means for generating hydrodynamic pressure to produce a current in the direction of cable deployment, assisting in the process of stripping the cable from the coil. The means for generating hydrodynamic pressure can be implemented via a pump, or via a water intake scoop which utilizes the forward movement of the marine vessel to force water therethrough. Additional pressure can be induced and concentrated in a predetermined direction through directional nozzles.

Abstract: An armored fiber optic cable is disclosed having both fiber optics and ar wires located outside the cable core in position where the fiber optics experience low strain when the cable is under stress. In one embodiment, metal armor wires and optical fibers embedded in metal tubes are arrayed in one or more layers about and outside the cable core. In another embodiment, KEVLAR armor wires and optical fibers embedded within a hard composite shell are arrayed in one or more layers about and outside the cable core, and a layer of KEVLAR armor is provided surrounding the one or more layers. In each of the embodiments the strains that the fiber optics experience due to core stresses and due to core residual strain is materially reduced over the heretofore known armored fiber optic cables.

Abstract: A fiber optic cable connection for high pressure environments utilizes a er optic cable having (i) a multiplicity of fiber optic strands extending axially therein, (ii) a strength member extending axially in spaced relationship thereabout, (iii) an outer jacket, and (iv) a filler matrix within the strength member and in which the strands are encased, a precision connector with an inner face having an axially extending recess and with axially extending passages extending from the transverse wall of the recess to the outer face of the connector member and through which the fiber optic strands extend. A preload insert member is disposed about the strands with its outer end extending into the recess of the connector and a peripheral shoulder abutting the inner face of the connector member. The strength member of the cable is disposed about extending the reduced diameter portion of the insert member.

Abstract: Methods are disclosed for forming precision, fiber optic interfaces, and a recision, fiber optic interface is disclosed in accordance therewith, an electroformed disk is disclosed to provide fiber alignment, and electrical discharge machining (EDM) is disclosed to provide accurate angular alignment of optical fibers at a planar optical interface. In one method embodiment, a combination of EDM, an alignment bushing and an electroformed disk are used to fashion a precision multi-channel fiber optic interface, and in one interface and method embodiment, two electroformed disks are used to provide a precision, multi-channel fiber optic interface.