Tightly Confined (i.e., Fiber Tightly Held Inside The Outer Sheath) Patents (Class 385/102)
  • Patent number: 7336873
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2008
    Assignee: 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
  • Patent number: 7333696
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2008
    Assignee: Hitachi Cable, Ltd.
    Inventor: Seiji Kojima
  • Patent number: 7330621
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2008
    Assignee: Corning Cable Systems LLC
    Inventors: Robert B. Elkins, II, Lars K. Nielsen, James P. Luther, Thomas Theuerkorn
  • Patent number: 7324730
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2008
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Joseph Varkey, Ravicharan Mydur, Noor Sait, Willem Wijnberg, Sumitra Kunathikom, Monica Darpi
  • Patent number: 7321709
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2008
    Assignee: Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Tomoyuki Yokokawa, Eisuke Sasaoka
  • Patent number: 7313303
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2007
    Assignee: Prysmian Cavi E Sistemi Energia S.R.L.
    Inventors: Feliciano Cecchi, Alessandro Ginocchio, Nunzio Romanini, Giovanni Brandi
  • Patent number: 7308175
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2007
    Assignee: Corning Cable Systems LLC
    Inventors: William S. Jackman, Warren W. McAlpine, David A. Seddon, Richard S. Wagman
  • Patent number: 7302143
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2007
    Assignee: Pirelli & C. S.p.A.
    Inventors: Alessandro Ginocchio, Agusti Valls Prats, Enrico Consonni
  • Patent number: 7292757
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2007
    Assignee: Draka Comteq B.V.
    Inventor: Michael T. Rossi
  • Patent number: 7280725
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2007
    Assignee: ADC Telecommunications, Inc.
    Inventors: Troy Brown, Steven C. Zimmel, Justin R. Horton
  • Patent number: 7277614
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2007
    Assignee: Corning Cable Systems LLC
    Inventors: Joseph T. Cody, Otto I. Szentesi, Martin J. Curran
  • Patent number: 7277616
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2007
    Assignee: Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Shinji Ishikawa, Soichi Endo, Toshihiko Shishido, Ken-ichiro Miyatake
  • Patent number: 7269318
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Assignee: Superior Essex Communications, LP
    Inventor: Thomas Christopher Cook
  • Patent number: 7254302
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2007
    Assignee: Corning Cable Systems, LLC.
    Inventors: Alan T. Parsons, Jody L. Greenwood, Kenneth D. Temple, Jr., Jason C. Lail
  • Patent number: 7254303
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2007
    Assignee: Corning Cable Systems, LLC.
    Inventor: Alan T. Parsons
  • Patent number: 7242831
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2007
    Assignee: Verizon Business Global LLC
    Inventor: John A. Fee
  • Patent number: 7239812
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignee: APAC Opto Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Tuan-Yu Hung, Chang-You Li, Jung-Te Ting, Ling-Ying Chiang, Wen-Chih Hsieh, Ing-Jer Ho
  • Patent number: 7236670
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2007
    Assignee: Corning Cable Systems, LLC.
    Inventors: Jason C. Lail, David W. Chiasson, Jody L. Greenwood, David A. Seddon, Thomas Ottmann
  • Patent number: 7224872
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2007
    Assignee: Sabeus, Inc.
    Inventors: Eric L. Goldner, William Briggs
  • Patent number: 7221831
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2007
    Assignee: Nexans
    Inventors: David Keller, Randie Yoder
  • Patent number: 7221833
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2007
    Assignee: LG Cable, Ltd.
    Inventors: Do-Hyun Park, Gi-Joon Nam
  • Patent number: 7218820
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2007
    Assignee: WellDynamics, Inc.
    Inventor: John L. Maida, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7197214
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2007
    Assignee: Corning Cable Systems LLC
    Inventors: Robert B. Elkins, II, Lars K. Nielsen, James P. Luther, Thomas Theuerkorn, William C. Hurley, William S. Jackman, Michael J. Ott
  • Patent number: 7189312
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2007
    Assignee: Alcatel
    Inventors: Ian Gerard Watson, Philip Andrew Norman, David Lancelot Walters, Peter Worthington
  • Patent number: 7186011
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2007
    Inventor: Jean-Hway Lee
  • Patent number: 7177507
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2007
    Assignee: Corning Cable Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Alan T. Parsons, Jody L. Greenwood, Kenneth D. Temple, Jr., Jason C. Lail
  • Patent number: 7174076
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2007
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hoon-Soo Park, Joong-Jin Hwang, Seung-Hyun Moon
  • Patent number: 7171087
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2007
    Assignee: Hitachi Cable, Ltd.
    Inventor: Yoshihiro Takahashi
  • Patent number: 7162128
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2007
    Assignee: Drake Comteq B.V.
    Inventors: Ray Lovie, Olaf Storaasli
  • Patent number: 7155094
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2006
    Assignee: Prysmian Cavi E Sistemi Energia S.R.L.
    Inventors: Raffaella Donetti, Massimiliano Pavan, Giovanni Brandi, Mauro Maritano
  • Patent number: 7153570
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2006
    Assignee: The Furukawa Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Fuminori Nakajima, Nobuhisa Ishii, Masao Tachikura, Shigenori Uruno, Hisashi Izumita, Hitoshi Ishimaru, Kuniaki Yamaguchi
  • Patent number: 7149392
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2006
    Assignee: Molex Incorporated
    Inventors: Wenzong Chen, Thomas Schiltz, Igor Grois
  • Patent number: 7140435
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2006
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Harmel Defretin, Gordon B. Duncan, Nicolas G. Pacault, Christian Koeniger, Nigel D. Leggett
  • Patent number: 7142752
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2006
    Assignee: Corning Cable Systems LLC
    Inventors: David W. Chiasson, Craig M. Conrad, William C. Hurley, Donald R. Parris
  • Patent number: 7136556
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2006
    Assignee: Emtelle UK Limited
    Inventors: George Henry Platt Brown, David John Stockton, Greig Iain McIlwraith
  • Patent number: 7123801
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2006
    Assignee: Prysmian Communications Cables and Systems USA, LLC
    Inventor: Jon Fitz
  • Patent number: 7106931
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2006
    Assignee: Pirelli General Plc
    Inventors: Ralph Sutehall, Martin Vincent Davies
  • Patent number: 7079734
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2006
    Assignee: Corning Cable Systems LLC
    Inventors: David A. Seddon, William C. Hurley
  • Patent number: 7068893
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Assignee: 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
  • Patent number: 7054531
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2006
    Assignee: Corning Cable Systems LLC
    Inventors: William C. Hurley, Martyn N. Easton
  • Patent number: 7016577
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2006
    Inventor: Wenzheng He
  • Patent number: 6973245
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2005
    Assignee: Furukawa Electric North America
    Inventors: Luis M. Bocanegra, Harold P. Debban, Jennifer R. Meeks, Kenneth L. Taylor, Peter A. Weimann
  • Patent number: 6973246
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2005
    Assignee: Furukawa Electric North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Luis M. Bocanegra, Harold P. Debban, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6970629
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2005
    Assignee: Corning Cable Systems LLC
    Inventors: Jason C. Lail, David W. Chiasson, Jody L. Greenwood, David A. Seddon, Thomas Ottmann
  • Patent number: 6957001
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2005
    Inventor: Wenzheng He
  • Patent number: 6957000
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2005
    Assignee: Corning Cable Systems LLC
    Inventors: Warren W. McAlpine, Jennifer L Cline, Matthew J. Grulick, Taw D. North
  • Patent number: 6937801
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2005
    Assignee: Corning Cable Systems LLC
    Inventors: Warren W. McAlpine, William C. Hurley, Richard S. Wagman, James L. Baucom, Scott A. McDowell
  • Patent number: 6934426
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2005
    Assignee: Senstar-Stellar Corporation
    Inventors: Brian Gerald Rich, William John Evenson
  • Patent number: 6931190
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2005
    Assignee: Fujikura Ltd.
    Inventors: Etsuo Ino, Tsuyoshi Shimomichi, Keiji Ohashi
  • Patent number: 6922511
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2005
    Assignee: Corning Cable Systems LLC
    Inventors: Brian K. Rhoney, Samuel D. Nave, James A. Register, III, William M. Hobbs, Jill D. McPeak, Roderick S. Bayliss, Jr.