Tightly Confined (i.e., Fiber Tightly Held Inside The Outer Sheath) Patents (Class 385/102)
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Patent number: 7336873Abstract: An optical tube assembly having at least one optical waveguide, at least one dry insert, and a tube. In one embodiment, the dry insert has a first layer and a second layer. The first layer is a polyurethane foam and the second layer is a water-swellable layer, wherein the dry insert is disposed within the tube and generally surrounds the at least one optical waveguide.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 2003Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignee: Corning Cable Systems, LLC.Inventors: Jason C. Lail, Jody L. Greenwood, Douglas S. Hedrick, James L. Baucom, W. Welch McCollough, Jr., Kenneth D. Temple, Jr., Catharina L. Tedder
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Patent number: 7333696Abstract: A tape-shaped optical fiber cable has: a tape member formed of a fiber material and a cured resin formed around the fiber material; and an optical fiber embedded in the tape member. The optical fiber is covered by a covering material, the fiber material comprises a bidirectional fiber material. The optical fiber is embedded in the tape member such that one fiber array direction of the bidirectional fiber material is parallel to a longitudinal direction of the optical fiber and the other fiber array direction of the bidirectional fiber material is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 2007Date of Patent: February 19, 2008Assignee: Hitachi Cable, Ltd.Inventor: Seiji Kojima
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Patent number: 7330621Abstract: Flexible closures and other flexible optical assemblies that are installed within a factory, or in the field, and then deployed using cable installation methods, wherein the flexible closures and assemblies have the ability to bend and twist without incurring physical damage to their structure, optical fibers and splices disposed within, and without significant attenuation in the optical fibers when exposed to conventional installation stresses. Flexible closures that replace conventional substantially rigid closures in order to facilitate pre-engineered and assembled distribution cable installation within an optical network, and the physical, bending and material properties of such closures, and methods of manufacturing and installing the same.Type: GrantFiled: November 7, 2005Date of Patent: February 12, 2008Assignee: Corning Cable Systems LLCInventors: Robert B. Elkins, II, Lars K. Nielsen, James P. Luther, Thomas Theuerkorn
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Patent number: 7324730Abstract: A cable which includes conductor bundles prepared from at least one optical fiber positioned either centrally or helically about the center axis of the bundle, metallic conductors helically positioned around the bundles center axis, and a polymeric insulation material. A method of making a cable including forming a conductor bundle by placing helically positioned conductors and optical fibers about the periphery of a central optical fiber or metallic conductor, encasing the conductors, optical fibers, in a polymeric insulation material, and grouping the conductor bundles together.Type: GrantFiled: September 1, 2004Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Joseph Varkey, Ravicharan Mydur, Noor Sait, Willem Wijnberg, Sumitra Kunathikom, Monica Darpi
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Patent number: 7321709Abstract: An optical cable according to the present invention relates to an optical cable having a construction to enable reduction of a cable outer diameter, and/or improvement of contained efficiency of coated optical fibers while an increase of transmission loss in each coated optical fiber is suppressed. The optical cable has a loose-tube type of structure constructed by: a tension member; a plurality of tubes stranded together around the tension member; and an outer sheath covering the outer periphery of the plurality of tubes. One or more coated optical fibers are contained in each tube. A ratio of A/B is 6.3 or more but 7.0 or less, where each coated optical fiber has a mode field diameter A in a range of 8.6±0.4 ?m at a wavelength of 1.31 ?m, and where a fiber cutoff wavelength thereof is B ?m.Type: GrantFiled: November 11, 2005Date of Patent: January 22, 2008Assignee: Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd.Inventors: Tomoyuki Yokokawa, Eisuke Sasaoka
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Patent number: 7313303Abstract: An optical cable having an optical core with a strength member and optical fibers embedded in a thermoplastic material. The optical core has a joint section having substantially the same diameter as the one of the optical core. The joint section has a jointed strength member and a plurality of spliced optical fibers, the jointed portion of the strength member and the spliced portion of the optical fibers being embedded into a cured polymeric material. A method for manufacturing an optical core is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2002Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Assignee: Prysmian Cavi E Sistemi Energia S.R.L.Inventors: Feliciano Cecchi, Alessandro Ginocchio, Nunzio Romanini, Giovanni Brandi
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Patent number: 7308175Abstract: A buffered optical fiber includes at least one optical fiber and a buffer layer. In one embodiment, the buffer layer generally surrounds the optical fiber and has a non-round cross-section that includes a plurality of wings that are an integrally formed by the buffer layer. Additionally, the buffered optical fiber may form a portion of a fiber optic cable that allows a relatively small bend radius while maintaining optical performance. Optionally, the optical fiber may be a bend resistant optical fiber for preserving optical performance. Additionally, other fiber optic cables that allow relatively small bend radii are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2006Date of Patent: December 11, 2007Assignee: Corning Cable Systems LLCInventors: William S. Jackman, Warren W. McAlpine, David A. Seddon, Richard S. Wagman
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Patent number: 7302143Abstract: An optical cable having at least one element for the transmission of optical signals and a structure that is able to protect the at least one element. The structure is a multilayer structure and is arranged in a position radially external to the at least one element and has a) at least one first covering layer of polymeric material in a position radially external to the at least one element; b) at least one covering layer of foamed polymeric material in a position radially external to the at least one first covering layer, and c) at least one second covering layer of polymeric material in a position radially external to the at least one covering layer of foamed polymeric material. The foamed polymeric material has a density between 0.3 and 0.7 kg/dm3 and tensile modulus at 20° C. between 300 and 700 MPa.Type: GrantFiled: May 28, 2002Date of Patent: November 27, 2007Assignee: Pirelli & C. S.p.A.Inventors: Alessandro Ginocchio, Agusti Valls Prats, Enrico Consonni
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Patent number: 7292757Abstract: A method and apparatus for determining and adjusting binder laylength during the process of manufacturing a selected fiber optic cable design. Specifically, a binder, having a distinguishing and physically detectable feature, is wrapped around fiber optic bundles or a buffer tube. A detection system detects the unique feature associated with the binder and thus creates a calculates a representative distance value. The distance value is calculated in relation the periodic spacing between two detected points on the physically detectable binder and is continuously monitored by a closed feedback loop. A computer receives status data from the closed feedback loop and compares the received data to a stored laylength parameter. In light of the comparison, an algorithm adjusts the binder head speed accordingly. This process repeats until the desired stored laylength is detected by the detection system.Type: GrantFiled: March 27, 2006Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Assignee: Draka Comteq B.V.Inventor: Michael T. Rossi
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Patent number: 7280725Abstract: A furcation tube including a central channel for receiving a fiber optic drop cable in a first end and an upjacket in a second end to transition an optical fiber within the drop cable into the upjacket for termination. A method of transitioning an optical fiber from a drop cable to a smaller upjacket.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 2004Date of Patent: October 9, 2007Assignee: ADC Telecommunications, Inc.Inventors: Troy Brown, Steven C. Zimmel, Justin R. Horton
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Patent number: 7277614Abstract: A tether assembly includes a tether cable containing optical fibers and adapted to be attached to a fiber optic distribution cable at a mid-span access location. A furcation at the end of the tether cable separates and transitions the optical fibers into furcation legs terminating in individual connector ports. Each connector port may be a receptacle for receiving a connector mounted upon one of the optical fibers and a mating connector of a drop cable, a plug mounted upon one of the optical fibers that is received within a plug alignment member operable to align the plug with a mating plug of a drop cable, or a connector that is routed to a receptacle disposed within an external wall of a network connection terminal from within the enclosure. The tether assembly provides a distribution cable assembly and method for mitigating a span length measurement difference in a pre-engineered communications network.Type: GrantFiled: December 3, 2004Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Assignee: Corning Cable Systems LLCInventors: Joseph T. Cody, Otto I. Szentesi, Martin J. Curran
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Patent number: 7277616Abstract: An optical fiber bundle that has better ultraviolet resistance characteristics at a wavelength range of 150 to 250 nm and that can be readily and cheaply manufactured with no risk of, for example, explosion during manufacturing and its manufacturing method are provided. In the optical fiber bundle, optical fibers including a core mainly containing silica glass and a cladding containing silica glass and fluorine are bundled and accommodated in a container. This container has optically transparent ends, accommodates hydrogen or deuterium as well as the optical fibers, and is sealed. The capacity of the container is 10 times or less as large as the volume of glass of the optical fibers.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2003Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Assignee: Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd.Inventors: Shinji Ishikawa, Soichi Endo, Toshihiko Shishido, Ken-ichiro Miyatake
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Patent number: 7269318Abstract: Herein described is a method and system for identifying buffer tubes in a cable by including at least one colored filling material within a transparent or translucent buffer tube.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2004Date of Patent: September 11, 2007Assignee: Superior Essex Communications, LPInventor: Thomas Christopher Cook
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Patent number: 7254302Abstract: An optical tube assembly having at least one optical waveguide, at least one dry insert, and a tube. The at least one optical waveguide is disposed within the tube and generally surrounds the at least one optical waveguide. In one embodiment, the dry insert has a first layer comprising a felt having at least one type of non-continuous filament. The dry insert may also include a plurality of water-swellable filaments. In another embodiment, a dry insert has a first layer, a second layer, and a plurality of water-swellable filaments. The first and second layers are attached together at least along the longitudinal edges thereof, thereby forming at least one compartment between the first and second layers and the plurality of water-swellable filaments are generally disposed in the at least one compartment. The dry insert also is advantageous in tubeless cable designs.Type: GrantFiled: May 18, 2004Date of Patent: August 7, 2007Assignee: Corning Cable Systems, LLC.Inventors: Alan T. Parsons, Jody L. Greenwood, Kenneth D. Temple, Jr., Jason C. Lail
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Patent number: 7254303Abstract: An optical tube assembly and method of manufacture include at least one optical waveguide, at least one dry insert that generally surrounds the at least one optical waveguide, and a tube. The dry insert includes a tape and at least one filament attached to the tape, thereby forming a plurality of loops. In preferred embodiments, either the tape or the at least one filament of the dry insert has a water-swellable component. Additionally, the optical tube assembly may be a portion of a fiber optic cable.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2004Date of Patent: August 7, 2007Assignee: Corning Cable Systems, LLC.Inventor: Alan T. Parsons
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Patent number: 7242831Abstract: An optical fiber assembly includes a central strength member, multiple tubes, stranded yarn, a water protection layer, reinforced strength yarns and an outer sheath. At least one of the multiple tubes has one or more optical fibers disposed within. The stranded yarn is formed around the multiple tubes and the central strength member. The water protection layer is formed around the stranded yarn. The reinforced strength yarns are formed around the water protection layer and the outer sheath is formed around the reinforced strength yarns. The optical fiber assembly has an overall diameter of less than about 11.5 mm and exhibits low strain when subjected to a tension of at least 600 pounds.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2005Date of Patent: July 10, 2007Assignee: Verizon Business Global LLCInventor: John A. Fee
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Patent number: 7239812Abstract: A pluggable bi-directional transceiver with a single optical fiber comprises a sub-assembly module, a circuit board, a main frame, an upper cover, a lower cover, a tab-base and a tab, connected to a communication equipment. The sub-assembly module connected to a single optical fiber includes a WDM, which reflects or transmits a specific wavelength optical signal adapted to function in receiving and transmitting optical signal. The circuit board exchanges the signal of the sub-assembly module with the communication equipment. The main frame and the upper and lower covers are used to fix and protect elements. The tab and tab-base are used to fix the transceiver on the equipment or remove from it. The specifications of the transceiver follow the small form-factor pluggable transceiver multi-source agreement.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2004Date of Patent: July 3, 2007Assignee: APAC Opto Electronics Inc.Inventors: Tuan-Yu Hung, Chang-You Li, Jung-Te Ting, Ling-Ying Chiang, Wen-Chih Hsieh, Ing-Jer Ho
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Patent number: 7236670Abstract: An optical tube assembly and methods of manufacturing the same include a tube, at least one optical waveguide, and a dry insert. In one embodiment, the dry insert generally surrounds the at least one optical waveguide and forms a core that is disposed within the tube. In one embodiment, the dry insert is compressed at least about 10 percent for coupling the at least optical waveguide to the interior surface of the tube.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 2005Date of Patent: June 26, 2007Assignee: Corning Cable Systems, LLC.Inventors: Jason C. Lail, David W. Chiasson, Jody L. Greenwood, David A. Seddon, Thomas Ottmann
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Patent number: 7224872Abstract: An array of fiber optic hydrophones or geophones is formed by winding of optical fiber around a continuous, yet flexible cylindrical core. The cylindrical core contains an elastomer filled with a specified percentage of voided plastic microspheres. The elastomer provides the necessary radial support of the optical fiber, and with the included voided microspheres, provides sufficient radial compliance under acoustic pressure for proper operation of the hydrophone. The cylindrical core can be made in very long sections allowing a plurality of fiber optic hydrophones to be wound onto it using a single optical fiber, with individual hydrophone elements separated by integral reflectors such as Fiber Bragg Gratings (FBSs). The center of the core may include a strength member and a central hollow tube for the passing of additional optical fibers. The aforementioned hydrophone array is then packaged within a protective outer coating or coatings as required for the specified application.Type: GrantFiled: October 3, 2003Date of Patent: May 29, 2007Assignee: Sabeus, Inc.Inventors: Eric L. Goldner, William Briggs
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Patent number: 7221831Abstract: A multi-tube fiber optic cable maintains a plurality of fiber tubes, each fiber tube containing at least one optical fiber therein. The plurality of fiber tubes are disposed apart from a central axis of the cable. A plurality of strength members are disposed apart from a central axis of said cable. An outer jacket surrounds the plurality of fiber tubes and the plurality of strength members and is formed from a pressure extruded polymer. The plurality of fiber tubes and strength members are held in either one of an oscillated geometry or a helical geometry by the pressure extruded jacket.Type: GrantFiled: March 3, 2005Date of Patent: May 22, 2007Assignee: NexansInventors: David Keller, Randie Yoder
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Patent number: 7221833Abstract: Disclosed is an optical cable with a secondary sheath for surrounding and protecting a plurality of optical fiber units in which at least 1-core optical fiber is mounted in a buffer tube, wherein the secondary sheath is made of a mixture including 100 parts by weight of base resin selected from the group consisting of low density polyethylene, linear low density polyethylene, and their mixture; and 0.2 to 60 parts by weight of inorganic additive. The secondary sheath of this optical cable shows excellent cutting and tear characteristics and ensures easy contact and divergence.Type: GrantFiled: November 2, 2004Date of Patent: May 22, 2007Assignee: LG Cable, Ltd.Inventors: Do-Hyun Park, Gi-Joon Nam
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Patent number: 7218820Abstract: A fiber optic conduit for use in a hostile environment includes a hydrogen barrier shell that is disposed outwardly from an inner axial tube. The hydrogen barrier shell comprises a material that is capable of reducing hydrogen permeation through the fiber optic conduit and a thickness of at least approximately one-thousandth of an inch. The inner axial tube is operable to receive one or more optical fibers. The conduit further includes an outer axial tube that is disposed outwardly from the hydrogen barrier shell and is operable to form a hydrostatic pressure boundary for the fiber optic conduit.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 2005Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Assignee: WellDynamics, Inc.Inventor: John L. Maida, Jr.
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Patent number: 7197214Abstract: A method of laying an at least partially buried fiber optic cable includes placing a fiber optic cable with at least one associated alternating electromagnetic field emitting locating transponder (AEFELT) underground such that at least one AEFELT is buried underground.Type: GrantFiled: April 22, 2005Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Assignee: Corning Cable Systems LLCInventors: Robert B. Elkins, II, Lars K. Nielsen, James P. Luther, Thomas Theuerkorn, William C. Hurley, William S. Jackman, Michael J. Ott
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Patent number: 7189312Abstract: An earthing electrode assembly and method for providing a submerged electrical apparatus with an earth path, the electrode assembly having an earthing electrode, an attachment device for attaching the electrode assembly to a cable, and an insulated electrical connection for connecting the earthing electrode to the submerged electrical apparatus. The connection is formed to be of sufficient length for the submerged electrical apparatus to be protected from electrochemical effects resulting from operation of the earthing electrode.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 2002Date of Patent: March 13, 2007Assignee: AlcatelInventors: Ian Gerard Watson, Philip Andrew Norman, David Lancelot Walters, Peter Worthington
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Patent number: 7186011Abstract: A multiple point decorative light strip, which is particularly structured from a plurality of light emitting tubes to form a strip form, a surface of which generates multiple point shining light spots. The light strip includes a plurality of the light emitting tubes, which are juxtaposed and connected to form the strip form. A plurality of optical fibers are disposed within each of the light emitting tubes, A plurality of light spot generating grooves are defined in a staggered arrangement on a circumferential surface of each of the optical fibers. Reflected stimulated light from the plurality of light spot generating grooves generates multiple point light spots that enable a surface of the strip to form a magnificently shining decorative lighting effect.Type: GrantFiled: March 11, 2005Date of Patent: March 6, 2007Inventor: Jean-Hway Lee
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Patent number: 7177507Abstract: An optical tube assembly having at least one optical waveguide, at least one dry insert, and a tube. In one embodiment, the dry insert has a first layer and a second layer attached together with an adhesive. The dry insert also includes a plurality of particles having an average particle size of about 600 microns or less for inhibiting microbending. The first layer may be a polyurethane foam having an average cell size of about 1000 microns or less and the second layer is a water-swellable layer. The dry insert is disposed within the tube and generally surrounds the at least one optical waveguide and the tube assembly can be a portion of a fiber optic cable.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 2004Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Assignee: Corning Cable Systems, LLCInventors: Alan T. Parsons, Jody L. Greenwood, Kenneth D. Temple, Jr., Jason C. Lail
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Patent number: 7174076Abstract: An optical fiber cable suitable installation using an air-blown method is disclosed. The optical fiber cable has a center tensile member located at a center of the optical fiber cable to provide tension-resistant force, at least three loose tubes each of which includes at least one optical signal transmitting medium, and located to surround a peripheral portion of the center tensile member, a binder surrounding the loose tubes to maintain an alignment pattern of the loose tubes, and a sheath located at an outermost portion of the optical fiber cable. The optical fiber cable has a polygonal sectional shape having smooth edges.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 2004Date of Patent: February 6, 2007Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventors: Hoon-Soo Park, Joong-Jin Hwang, Seung-Hyun Moon
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Patent number: 7171087Abstract: An optical fiber cable has an optical fiber core wire and a tension member. The tension member is formed of a glass fiber reinforced resin linear material with glass fibers and a matrix resin, and satisfies the following requirements: (1) (EfVf+EmVm)d2?8.3/n wherein Ef represents the modulus of elasticity of glass fibers, GPa; Vf represents the content of glass fibers, %/100; Em represents the modulus of elasticity of matrix resin, GPa; Vm represents the content of matrix resin, %/100; d represents the diameter of tension member, mm; and n represents the number of tension members used in optical fiber cable; (2) (Ef/Em)?22; (3) Vf=0.6 to 0.88; and (4) an elongation at break of glass fibers of not less than 5% and an elongation at break of matrix resin of not less than 5%.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 2005Date of Patent: January 30, 2007Assignee: Hitachi Cable, Ltd.Inventor: Yoshihiro Takahashi
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Patent number: 7162128Abstract: A method of installing a cable including at least one communication element, such as an optical fiber, disposed in a buffer tube and a surrounding jacket. The method includes the steps of exposing a portion of the buffer tube over a predetermined length and forming the exposed portion of the buffer tube into a coupling coil having at least one loop. The cable installation method prevents fiber retraction in cable terminations by utilizing at least one coupling coil formed from the exposed buffer tube and advantageously yields coupling coil terminations with small diameter coils, requiring less cable for more efficient installation, and further provides for the coupling coil to be located within a splice closure for more visually pleasing terminations. Preferably, coupling coils are formed at each end of the cable and located in splice enclosures.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 2005Date of Patent: January 9, 2007Assignee: Drake Comteq B.V.Inventors: Ray Lovie, Olaf Storaasli
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Patent number: 7155094Abstract: A water-resistant telecommunication cable is disclosed comprising a solid and compact element surrounding at least one optical transmitting element, wherein the element is made from a vinyl alcohol/vinyl acetate copolymer having a hydrolysis degree of about 60% to about 95% and a polymerization degree higher than about 2,500; at least a first solid plasticizer having a melting point between 50° and 110° C., and a second solid plasticizer having a melting point equal or higher than 140° C., in an amount of about 10–30 and 1–10 parts by weight per hundred parts by weight of the copolymer, respectively; the water-soluble polymer material showing: a complex modulus (G*) equal to or higher than 2.5 106 Mpa; a ratio of the viscous modulus to the elastic modulus (tan ?) equal to or lower than 2.30; and a glass transition temperature (Tg) of about 20° to about 35° C.Type: GrantFiled: December 27, 2002Date of Patent: December 26, 2006Assignee: Prysmian Cavi E Sistemi Energia S.R.L.Inventors: Raffaella Donetti, Massimiliano Pavan, Giovanni Brandi, Mauro Maritano
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Patent number: 7153570Abstract: An optical fiber cord which is a single core optical fiber cord having an outer diameter of 1.2 mm or less, and has a structure in which an optical fiber core wire having a resin coating is provided at the center, a tensile-strength-fiber layer is provided around the outer periphery of the optical fiber core wire, and a coating layer is further provided around the outer periphery of the tensile-strength-fiber layer, wherein the coating layer is composed of a non-halogen fire-retardant resin, is disclosed. This optical fiber cord has excellent fire retardant, mechanical and handling properties, although the outer diameter thereof is made smaller.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 2004Date of Patent: December 26, 2006Assignee: The Furukawa Electric Co., Ltd.Inventors: Fuminori Nakajima, Nobuhisa Ishii, Masao Tachikura, Shigenori Uruno, Hisashi Izumita, Hitoshi Ishimaru, Kuniaki Yamaguchi
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Patent number: 7149392Abstract: A method of forming a round multi-fiber cable assembly is provided which includes the following steps: providing a round multi-fiber cable, a heat shrinkable tube, a tubing, a boot, a crimp tubing, and a multi-fiber connector; threading the heat shrinkable tube onto the multi-fiber cable; stripping off inner and outer jackets of the multi-fiber cable to pre-determined lengths; ribbonizing the fibers of the multi-fiber cable, if necessary; preparing the tubing as required; threading the fibers and strength members of the multi-fiber cable through the tubing; placing the boot and the crimp tubing on the tubing, assembling the multi-fiber connector to the ribbon; crimping the crimp tubing around the tubing, the strength members and the multi-fiber connector; heat shrinking the heat-shrinkable tubing to the round multi-fiber cable and the tubing; and sliding the boot to attach it to the multi-fiber connector to provide a round multi-fiber cable assembly.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2004Date of Patent: December 12, 2006Assignee: Molex IncorporatedInventors: Wenzong Chen, Thomas Schiltz, Igor Grois
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Patent number: 7140435Abstract: Methods and apparatus comprise a conveyance structure to carry a tool into a wellbore. The conveyance structure contains an optical fiber line to enable communication between the tool and well surface equipment. In one implementation, the conveyance structure comprises a slickline. In another implementation, the conveyance structure includes another type of conveyance device that does not convey power and data separate from the fiber optic line.Type: GrantFiled: August 29, 2003Date of Patent: November 28, 2006Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Harmel Defretin, Gordon B. Duncan, Nicolas G. Pacault, Christian Koeniger, Nigel D. Leggett
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Patent number: 7142752Abstract: A buffered optical waveguide includes an optical waveguide having a core, a cladding, and at least one coating and a buffer layer. The buffer layer being disposed around the optical waveguide for protecting the same so that the coupling/adhesion of the buffer layer is reduced. In one embodiment, at least one coating on the optical waveguides has an undulating profile for reducing contact area of the optical waveguide, thereby reducing coupling/adhesion of the buffer layer thereto. In another embodiment, the buffer layer has an internal profile with at least one recessed portion that extends along a longitudinal length of the buffer layer for reducing the contact area of the buffer layer for reducing coupling adhesion thereto. In preferred embodiments, the buffered optical waveguide is about 900 microns or smaller.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 2004Date of Patent: November 28, 2006Assignee: Corning Cable Systems LLCInventors: David W. Chiasson, Craig M. Conrad, William C. Hurley, Donald R. Parris
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Patent number: 7136556Abstract: A fibre optic cable includes a core of primary coated optical fibres embedded in an inner layer of acrylate material, having sufficient tensile strength when cured to lock at least the outermost fibres in place and still allow the fibres to be easily broken out of the assembly for termination and splicing purposes. The hardness of the acrylate layer is such that at least the outermost fibres of the bundle are restricted from moving axially relative to the inner layer. The inner layer is then surrounded by a loose thin jacket formed from a mixture of high density polyethylene having a Shore hardness greater than or equal to 60 and a generally uniformly distributed slip agent, including a polyether modified poly (dimethylsiloxane) material such as polyether modified hydroxy functional poly (dimethylsiloxane) material. The mixture from which the outer layer is formed is compacted by means of heat and pressure.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 2003Date of Patent: November 14, 2006Assignee: Emtelle UK LimitedInventors: George Henry Platt Brown, David John Stockton, Greig Iain McIlwraith
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Patent number: 7123801Abstract: Optical fiber cables with a central strength member encircled by a jacket having ducts which are disposed around the strength member and which receive one or more optical fibers with jacket material between the ducts and the outer surface of the jacket. The optical fibers are free to move in the ducts, and preferably, the optical fibers are tight buffered. Portions of the jacket intermediate the ducts connect to the strength member which resists longitudinal movement of the jacket relative to the core. However, the jacket can be separated from the core by manual pulling force after the jacket is axially and radially cut at a pair of diametrically opposite ducts. Preferably, the jacket has outer surface indicia showing the positions of the slots, and the cables can include water blocking materials.Type: GrantFiled: November 18, 2004Date of Patent: October 17, 2006Assignee: Prysmian Communications Cables and Systems USA, LLCInventor: Jon Fitz
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Patent number: 7106931Abstract: An optical fibre drop cable for suspension installation includes sheathing having a first portion containing a strengthening arrangement for supporting the cable in a suspension installation and a second portion that is separable from the first portion. The second sheathing portion contains a plurality of electrical conductors. The first sheathing portion defines at least one passage for optical fibers.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 2002Date of Patent: September 12, 2006Assignee: Pirelli General PlcInventors: Ralph Sutehall, Martin Vincent Davies
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Patent number: 7079734Abstract: A fiber optic drop cable is disclosed that includes at least one optical waveguide disposed within a tube, a first and second strength assembly, and a cable jacket. Each strength assembly includes a strength component and a plurality of strength members, wherein the respective plurality of strength members are radially disposed about at least half of the circumference of the respective strength component. In one embodiment, the first and second strength assemblies are generally disposed on opposite sides of the tube.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2004Date of Patent: July 18, 2006Assignee: Corning Cable Systems LLCInventors: David A. Seddon, William C. Hurley
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Patent number: 7068893Abstract: An underground power cable having an optical fiber sensor for measuring temperature distribution is disclosed. In the power cable, an optical fiber for measuring temperature distribution is received in a stainless steel tube having excellent strength, and this optical tube is interposed between a core and a sheath of the power cable. When arranging the optical tube in the power cable, a supporting material having a relatively low strength than the optical tube is arranged in the cable together in order to prevent the optical fiber from being damaged by external force and prevent the inner insulation layer from being broken down by the optical tube. In addition, a fixing tape for fixing the optical tube in contact with the core may be added to prevent the optical tube from being bent seriously or inclined to one side when the cable is bent.Type: GrantFiled: May 4, 2004Date of Patent: June 27, 2006Assignee: LG Cable Ltd.Inventors: Duk-Jin Oh, Young-Gug Kwun, In-Ho Lee, Seok-Hyun Nam, Su-Kil Lee, Jae-Yong Jung, Hye-Won Lee
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Patent number: 7054531Abstract: A unitized fiber optic cable 10 includes a plurality of unit cables 20, each of which also includes a plurality of tight buffered optical fibers 30. The unit cables 20 aid in segregating and identifying individual tight buffered optical fibers 30. Strength members, such as aramid fibers 14 can be located between the unit cables 20 and the outer cable jacket 12, instead of being located within the unit cables 20. Relatively thin unit jackets 22 can be made of a material that will not stick to the tight buffer or tight buffer layers 32 on the optical fibers 30, so aramid fibers 14 need not be located between the unit jacket 22 and the tight buffered optical fibers 30. The unit jacket 22 can be a highly filled polymer that can be the same polymer used in the tight buffer or tight buffer layer 32. The unit jacket 22 need not be a load bearing member.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 2002Date of Patent: May 30, 2006Assignee: Corning Cable Systems LLCInventors: William C. Hurley, Martyn N. Easton
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Patent number: 7016577Abstract: The present invention relates to an electroluminescent filament capable of emitting a plurality of colors and a method for manufacturing the same. Said electroluminescent filament of the present application comprises: A metal conductive wire as core wire; A medium insulating layer coated on the core wire; A light emitting layer coated on the medium insulating layer; A conductive layer coated on the light emitting layer; At least one or more transmission conductive wires wound at interval on the outside of the conductive layer; The transparent polymer casing tube covering the transmission conductive wires and the outer side of the surface of conductive layer not covered by transmission conductive wires; The polymer casing tube of at least 2 to 8 colors covering the outer layer of transparent polymer casing tube and forming light emitting filament with helical or sectional colors combination.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 2003Date of Patent: March 21, 2006Inventor: Wenzheng He
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Patent number: 6973245Abstract: The specification describes an improved optical fiber cable wherein the cable cross section is round and contains a plurality of bundled optical fibers. The bundle may comprise randomly spaced fibers or fibers aligned in a ribbon configuration. The bundle is encased in a polymer encasement that couples mechanically to each optical fiber. Preferably, the fibers are spaced from the nearest neighbor to improve coupling. In some embodiments the encasement is relatively hard, and is deliberately made to adhere to the optical fiber bundle. Consequently the encasement medium functions as an effective stress translating medium that deliberately translates stresses on the cable to the optical fibers. The cable construction of the invention is essentially void free, and provides a dry cable with water blocking capability.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 2003Date of Patent: December 6, 2005Assignee: Furukawa Electric North AmericaInventors: Luis M. Bocanegra, Harold P. Debban, Jennifer R. Meeks, Kenneth L. Taylor, Peter A. Weimann
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Patent number: 6973246Abstract: An optical fiber cable includes a number of optical fiber bundles. Each bundle contains a number of optical fiber cable units, and a relatively thin skin surrounds the cable units and retains the units in a desired configuration another over the length of the bundle. Each cable unit includes a number of optical fibers, and a first outer jacket that surrounds the fibers. The bundles are protectively enclosed by a second outer jacket of the cable. In an illustrated embodiment, each cable unit has 12 fibers, each bundle contains 12 cable units, and six bundles are protectively enclosed by the second outer jacket, so that the cable contains 432 optical fibers each of which is traceable by color and/or indicia markings.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 2004Date of Patent: December 6, 2005Assignee: Furukawa Electric North America, Inc.Inventors: Luis M. Bocanegra, Harold P. Debban, Jr.
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Patent number: 6970629Abstract: An optical tube assembly and methods of manufacturing the same include a tube, at least one optical waveguide, and a dry insert. In one embodiment, the dry insert generally surrounds the at least one optical waveguide and forms a core that is disposed within the tube. In one embodiment, the dry insert is compressed at least about 10 percent for coupling the at least optical waveguide to the interior surface of the tube.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2002Date of Patent: November 29, 2005Assignee: Corning Cable Systems LLCInventors: Jason C. Lail, David W. Chiasson, Jody L. Greenwood, David A. Seddon, Thomas Ottmann
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Patent number: 6957001Abstract: The present invention relates to an electroluminescent light source. In particular, it relates to an multi-colored electroluminescent cable capable of changing colors, which comprises: a group of electroluminescent filaments which consist of a plurality of electroluminescent filaments of different colors and are insulated from each other, helically wound on the outer side of the axis; a transparent and flexible polymer casing tube disposed on the outer side of the group of electroluminescent filaments. The advantage of the present invention is low in power consumption, simple in structure, convenient for use, and has relatively long service life. The filament can be bent into a plurality of geometrical shapes as consumers demand, and it is beautiful and appealing.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 2004Date of Patent: October 18, 2005Inventor: Wenzheng He
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Patent number: 6957000Abstract: A tight buffered optical fiber and methods of manufacturing the same include an optical fiber and a tight buffer layer. The tight buffer layer has a predetermined wall thickness generally surrounding the optical fiber and at least one preferential tear portion generally formed along a longitudinal axis of the tight buffer layer. In one embodiment, the tight buffered optical fiber has a delta attenuation of about 0.300 dB/km or less at a temperature of about ?40° C. at a reference wavelength of about 1550 nm, thereby making the tight buffered optical fiber suitable for outdoor environments. Other embodiments can include a buffer layer surrounding one or more optical fiber ribbons. In other embodiments, the buffer layer can be formed from a material having an elongation to break ratio of about 500% or less.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2002Date of Patent: October 18, 2005Assignee: Corning Cable Systems LLCInventors: Warren W. McAlpine, Jennifer L Cline, Matthew J. Grulick, Taw D. North
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Patent number: 6937801Abstract: A fiber optic cable is provided that includes a plurality of lengthwise extending, non-jacketed bundles of optical fibers and a cable jacket surrounding the bundles of optical fibers. Each bundle of optical fibers may include a binder, such as a binder thread, for maintaining the integrity of the bundle. The binder may include, for example, a binder thread formed of an air entangled, textured, continuous multi-filament thread. The fiber optic cable may also include a separation element for preventing adhesion between the bundles of optical fibers and the cable jacket without having to separately jacket each bundle of optical fibers.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 2004Date of Patent: August 30, 2005Assignee: Corning Cable Systems LLCInventors: Warren W. McAlpine, William C. Hurley, Richard S. Wagman, James L. Baucom, Scott A. McDowell
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Patent number: 6934426Abstract: A fiber optic security sensor cable and system for using the cable. The cable includes a optical fiber encased in a first jacket, a power cable encased in a second jacket, and an overjacket encasing both the first jacket and the second jacket where the fiber is utilized to securely transmit data and provide a response to a sensed disturbance to the sensor cable. The system provides secure data transmission and power distribution via the sensor cable where one optical sensing fiber along the path of a data fiber responds to a sensed disturbance to the sensor cable. The system's sensor cable is enabled to detect disturbances at a processing unit where the sensor cable is either physically routed adjacent to the processing unit or within the processing unit. The system can further include more than one processing unit in the form of auxiliary units such as repeaters, power amplifiers, power outlets, data routers, and any similar electronic device.Type: GrantFiled: October 9, 2002Date of Patent: August 23, 2005Assignee: Senstar-Stellar CorporationInventors: Brian Gerald Rich, William John Evenson
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Patent number: 6931190Abstract: An optical fiber unit for air blown fiber installation, including an optical fiber wire; an inner coating layer formed on an outer periphery of the optical fiber wire with a modulus of elasticity ranging from 0.98 to 196 MPa; an outer coating layer formed on an outer periphery of the inner coating layer with a modulus of elasticity ranging from 196 to 1960 MPa; and a foamed plastic layer formed on an outer periphery of the outer coating layer.Type: GrantFiled: February 14, 2003Date of Patent: August 16, 2005Assignee: Fujikura Ltd.Inventors: Etsuo Ino, Tsuyoshi Shimomichi, Keiji Ohashi
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Patent number: 6922511Abstract: One embodiment is a fiber optic cable including at least one subunit, a tube, a plurality of strength members, and a cable jacket. The subunit includes a fiber optic ribbon and a sheath, wherein the sheath is tight-buffered about the fiber optic ribbon, thereby inhibiting buckling of the ribbon during temperature variations. The tube houses at least a portion of the at least one subunit to form a tube assembly. The plurality of strength members are disposed radially outward of the tube and are surrounded by the cable jacket. Other embodiments include a plurality of subunits in a stack with each subunit having a sheath for security purposes. Additionally, a tube assembly can have a fiber optic packing density of about 0.05 or greater.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2003Date of Patent: July 26, 2005Assignee: Corning Cable Systems LLCInventors: Brian K. Rhoney, Samuel D. Nave, James A. Register, III, William M. Hobbs, Jill D. McPeak, Roderick S. Bayliss, Jr.