A distributed radio access network (RAN) is provided. A selected wireless transceiver node(s) in a selected coverage cell receives a radio frequency (RF) test signal(s). The selected wireless transceiver node(s) determines an effective gain value based on a predefined characteristic of the RF test signal(s). The selected wireless transceiver node(s) communicates the effective gain value and other related parameters to a server apparatus in the distributed RAN. The server apparatus determines a common gain value for the selected wireless transceiver node(s) in the selected coverage cell based on the parameters. Accordingly, the selected wireless transceiver node(s) operates based on the common gain value. By determining a respective common gain value for each of the coverage cells in the distributed RAN, it may be possible for all the wireless transceiver nodes in the distributed RAN to communicate an uplink digital communications signal(s) without causing distortion in the uplink digital communications signal(s).
H04W 24/02 - Arrangements for optimising operational condition
2.
SELECTIVE DISTRIBUTION AND/OR RECEPTION OF WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS SIGNALS IN A NON-CONTIGUOUS WIRELESS DISTRIBUTED COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM (WDCS) FOR REDUCING DOWNLINK TRANSMISSION POWER AND/OR UPLINK NOISE
Selective distribution and/or reception of wireless communications signals in a non-contiguous wireless distributed communications systems (WDCS) for reducing downlink transmission power and/or uplink noise is disclosed. A non-contiguous WDCS is a WDCS in which the remote units are clustered such that remote units with contiguous coverage areas receive downlink communications signals serviced by different cells to provide non-contiguous cell coverage areas. In one example, the WDCS is configured to selectively distribute, through each remote unit, only downlink communication signals for the cell that are identified as servicing the user equipment (UE) to conserve downlink power. In another example, the WDCS is configured to selectively receive uplink communications signals from remote units that contain user data from UE. Noise and/or interference signals associated with portions of the uplink communications signals that are not selectively received (e.g., blocked) are not combined with the selectively received uplink communications signals, thus reducing uplink noise.
Hybrid fiber/coaxial (coax) taps, and related methods and networks. The hybrid fiber/coax tap is configured to receive and convert downlink optical RF signals from a downlink distribution optical fiber to downlink electrical RF signals to be split and distributed to coax taps. Subscriber coax cables can be connected to the coax taps to "tap" the downlink electrical RF signals to subscribers. The hybrid fiber/coax tap is also configured to convert received uplink electrical RF signals on the coax taps into uplink optical RF signals to be distributed over an uplink distribution optical fiber connected to the output optical port. The hybrid fiber/coax tap also includes an input coax port configured to be connected to a coax distribution cable to receive a power signal from a coax network for powering fiber optic components. Electrical RF signals received on the coax port are passed on an output coax port to downstream taps.
H04B 10/2575 - Radio-over-fibre, e.g. radio frequency signal modulated onto an optical carrier
H01R 9/03 - Connectors arranged to contact a plurality of the conductors of a multiconductor cable
H04B 10/00 - Transmission systems employing electromagnetic waves other than radio-waves, e.g. infrared, visible or ultraviolet light, or employing corpuscular radiation, e.g. quantum communication
H04B 10/25 - Arrangements specific to fibre transmission
4.
WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEMS SUPPORTING SELECTIVE ROUTING OF CARRIER AGGREGATION (CA) AND MULTIPLE-INPUT MULTIPLE-OUTPUT (MIMO) DATA STREAMS
Wireless communications systems supporting selective routing of carrier aggregation (CA) and multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) data streams are disclosed. The wireless communications system includes a signal router circuit communicatively coupled to one or more signal sources. The signal router circuit is configured to receive MIMO and CA communications signals for data transmission from the signal source(s) and distribute the communications signals (e.g., data streams) to remote units communicatively coupled to the signal router circuit. The signal router circuit determines whether to route each data stream in a MIMO configuration, a CA configuration, or both to provide an improved wireless communications environment for mobile communications devices connected to the remote units. The improved wireless communications environment may increase throughput, reduce interference and/or noise, and/or improve the transmission quality of wireless communications signals.
Distributing higher currents demanded by a power consuming load(s) exceeding overcurrent limits of a current limiter circuit for a power source in a power distribution system. The power distribution system receives and distributes power from the power source to a power consuming load(s). The power distribution circuit is configured to limit current demand on the power source to not exceed a designed source current threshold limit. The power distribution circuit includes an energy storage circuit. The power distribution circuit is configured to charge the energy storage circuit with current supplied by the power source. Current demanded by the power consuming load(s) exceeding the source current threshold limit of the power source is supplied by the energy storage circuit. Thus, limiting current of the power source while supplying higher currents demanded by power consuming load(s) exceeding the source current limits of the power source can both be accomplished.
WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEMS SUPPORTING CARRIER AGGREGATION AND SELECTIVE DISTRIBUTED ROUTING OF SECONDARY CELL COMPONENT CARRIERS BASED ON CAPACITY DEMAND
Wireless communications systems supporting carrier aggregation and selective distributed routing of secondary cell component carriers based on capacity demand are disclosed. The wireless communications system includes a signal router circuit communicatively coupled to a signal source. The signal router circuit is configured to distribute a primary cell component carrier, including control information, to each of multiple remote units to be distributed to any mobile device in a respective coverage area of any remote unit to avoid the need to support handovers. In addition, the signal router circuit is configured to selectively distribute one or more secondary cell component carriers to any subset of the remote units based on capacity demand associated with the remote units.
H04L 5/00 - Arrangements affording multiple use of the transmission path
H04B 7/024 - Co-operative use of antennas at several sites, e.g. in co-ordinated multipoint or co-operative multiple-input multiple-output [MIMO] systems
A fiber optic connector (20) comprising a connector body (100) that can receive the optical cable (10) and a complimentary receptacle. Fiber optic connector (20) comprises a ferrule body (200) having a passageway (210) to guide an optical fiber (11) of the optical cable (10), and a compress body (300) being arranged between the connector body (100) and the ferrule body (200). The compress body (300) has a hollow area (310) to receive the optical fiber (11). The compress body (300) is configured to exert a force (F2) to the ferrule body (200) so that the end face (220) of the ferrule body (200) is moved in a forward direction away from the connector body (100), when an external force (F1) is applied to an outer surface (303) of the compress body (300). Methods of making assemblies are also disclosed.
Systems and methods for distributing spectrum allocation and coexistence information among spectrum servers are disclosed. Multiple radio nodes may be deployed within a geographical region, and each radio node may support wireless communication over spectrum in which access is arbitrated by one or more spectrum access servers. Each radio node is configured to detect radio conditions which may indicate coexistence between the radio node and a neighboring radio node. Information regarding such coexistence is exchanged with a spectrum server, which allocates the spectrum among the radio nodes. Where multiple spectrum access servers are deployed, a coordinating function facilitates the spectrum access across the spectrum access servers. To enable more robust coordination, coexistence information is gathered through the coordinating function and distributed among the spectrum access servers.
WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEMS SUPPORTING CARRIER AGGREGATION AND SELECTIVE DISTRIBUTED ROUTING OF SECONDARY CELL COMPONENT CARRIERS FOR SELECTIVELY DIRECTING CAPACITY
Wireless communications systems which support carrier aggregation and selectively distribute routing of secondary cell component carriers to selectively direct wireless capacity are disclosed. The wireless communications system includes a signal router circuit communicatively coupled to a signal source. The signal router circuit is configured to distribute a primary cell component carrier, including control information, to each of multiple remote units to be distributed to any mobile device in a respective coverage area of any remote unit. The signal router circuit selectively distributes one or more secondary cell component to the multiple remote units to increase wireless capacity. Thus, because the control information in the primary cell component carrier is distributed to each remote unit, if a mobile device moves between different coverage areas provided by different remote units, no handover is required.
H04L 5/00 - Arrangements affording multiple use of the transmission path
H04B 7/024 - Co-operative use of antennas at several sites, e.g. in co-ordinated multipoint or co-operative multiple-input multiple-output [MIMO] systems
An intermediate power supply unit for distributing lower voltage power to remote devices is disclosed. The intermediate power supply unit includes a higher voltage power input configured to receive power distributed by a power source and a power coupling circuit configured to couple the higher voltage power input to a plurality of power coupling outputs. If it is determined that a wire coupling the power source to the higher voltage power input is touched, the higher voltage power input is decoupled from the power coupling outputs. The intermediate power supply unit also includes a power converter circuit configured to convert voltage on higher voltage inputs to a lower voltage applied to one or more lower voltage outputs. The power converter circuit is also configured to distribute power from the one or more lower voltage outputs over a power conductor coupled to an assigned remote device.
An optical coupler that provides evanescent optical coupling includes an optical fiber and a waveguide. The optical fiber has a glass core, a glass inner cladding surrounding the glass core, and a polymeric outer cladding surrounding the glass inner cladding. The glass core and glass inner cladding define for the fiber a glass portion, which can be exposed at one end of the fiber by removing a portion of the polymeric outer cladding. The glass portion has a glass-portion surface. The waveguide has a waveguide core and a surface, and can be part of a photonic device. The glass portion of the fiber is interfaced with the waveguide to establish evanescent coupling between the fiber and the waveguide. Alignment features are used to facilitate aligning the fiber core to the waveguide core during the interfacing process to ensure suitable efficiency of the evanescent coupling.
G02B 6/42 - Coupling light guides with opto-electronic elements
G02B 6/30 - Optical coupling means for use between fibre and thin-film device
G02B 6/245 - Removing protective coverings of light guides before coupling
G02B 6/28 - Optical coupling means having data bus means, i.e. plural waveguides interconnected and providing an inherently bidirectional system by mixing and splitting signals
An optical fiber cable includes a central strength member, a bedding compound surrounding the central strength member, a plurality of buffer tubes stranded around the central strength member and the bedding compound such that the bedding compound forms to the buffer tubes and occupies substantially the entirety of an inner core area between the buffer tubes and the central strength member. At least one of the buffer tubes contains a plurality of optical fibers and a jacket surrounds the plurality of buffer tubes. The cable may further include a second bedding compound that fills interstices in an outer core area between the buffer tubes and the jacket.
A ribbon splitter device includes a handle; and a splitter module mounted to the handle, wherein the splitter module has a flexure arm and a mounting arm, the flexure arm being rotatably movable in relation to the mounting arm, and wherein the mounting arm has a ribbon slot for securing an optical fiber ribbon in perpendicular relationship to a longitudinal length of the flexure arm.
B26D 1/09 - Cutting through work characterised by the nature or movement of the cutting member; Apparatus or machines therefor; Cutting members therefor involving a cutting member which does not travel with the work having a linearly-movable cutting member wherein the cutting member reciprocates of the guillotine type with a plurality of cutting members
G02B 6/245 - Removing protective coverings of light guides before coupling
G02B 6/25 - Preparing the ends of light guides for coupling, e.g. cutting
G02B 6/46 - Processes or apparatus adapted for installing optical fibres or optical cables
14.
METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR LASER CLEAVING OPTICAL FIBERS
A method of cleaving an optical fiber comprises inserting the optical fiber through a bore of a holding member, securing the optical fiber to the holding member with a bonding agent, operating at least one laser to emit at least one laser beam, and directing the at least one laser beam from the at least one laser to the end face of the holding member. At least a portion of the at least one laser beam reflects off the end face of the holding member and is thereafter incident on an end portion of the optical fiber. The at least one laser beam has a laser fluence of less than 100 J/cm2 and cleaves the end portion of the optical fiber less than 20μm from the end face of the holding member. In an alternative method of cleaving an optical fiber at least one laser is operated so that it emits at least one laser beam that cleaves the end portion of the optical fiber by: (a) ablating some of the end portion of the optical fiber with the at least one laser beam emitted at a first wavelength; (b) tuning the at least one laser to a different wavelength; and (c) ablating an additional amount of the end portion of the optical fiber with the at least one laser beam emited at the different wavelength. Related systems are also disclosed.
Optical assemblies, interconnection substrates and methods of forming optical links are disclosed. In one embodiment, an optical assembly includes a first waveguide substrate, a second waveguide substrate, and an interconnection substrate having a first end face, a second end face, and a laser written waveguide. The first waveguide substrate is coupled to the first end face of the interconnection substrate, and the first waveguide is optically coupled to the laser written waveguide. The laser written waveguide terminates at the second end face of the interconnection substrate. The second waveguide substrate is coupled to the second end face of the interconnection substrate such that the second waveguide is optically coupled to the laser written waveguide at the second end face.
The optical-electrical printed circuit board disclosed herein includes a waveguide link assembly and a printed circuit board assembly. The printed circuit board assembly has first and second PCB layers between which optical waveguides of the waveguide link assembly are disposed. The end faces the optical waveguides are accessible through an access aperture in the printed circuit board assembly. An optical interconnector can be used to optically connect the optical waveguides to waveguides of an optical-electrical integrated circuit operably disposed on the printed circuit board assembly to form a photonic device. A waveguide bending structure can be used to bend the optical waveguides to facilitate optical coupling to the optical interconnector or directly to the waveguides of the optical-electrical integrated circuit. Methods of forming an optical-electrical printed circuit board, a photonic assembly and a photonic device are also disclosed.
Multiports comprising a connection port insert having at least one optical port along with methods for making are disclosed. One embodiment is directed to a multiport for providing an optical connection comprising a shell and a connection port insert. The shell comprises a first end having a first opening leading to a cavity. The connection port insert comprises a body having a front face and at least one connection port comprising an optical connector opening extending from the front face into the connection port insert with a connection port passageway extending through part of the connection port insert to a rear portion, where the connection port insert is sized so that at least a portion of the connection port insert fits into the first opening and the cavity of the shell.
Multiports having connection ports with associated securing features and methods for making the same are disclosed. In one embodiment comprises a multiport for providing an optical connection comprising a shell, a connection port insert, and at least one securing feature. The shell comprises a first end having a first opening leading to a cavity. The connection port insert comprises a body having a front face and at least one connection port comprising an optical connector opening extending from the front face into the connection port insert with a connection port passageway extending through part of the connection port insert to a rear portion, where the connection port insert is sized so that at least a portion of the connection port insert fits into the first opening and the cavity of the shell. The at least one securing feature is associated with the at least one connection port.
Multiports having connection ports formed in the shell and associated securing features are disclosed. One aspect of the disclosure is directed to a multiport for providing an optical connection comprising a shell comprising a first portion, at least one connection port comprising an optical connector opening, and a connection port passageway formed in the first portion of the shell, where the at least one securing feature is associated with the at least one connection port.
Embodiments of the disclosure relate to managing a communications system based on software defined networking (SDN) architecture. An SDN controller is provided in the communications system to manage a wireless distribution system (WDS) and a local area network (LAN) based on SDN architecture. The SDN controller is communicatively coupled to a WDS control system in the WDS and a LAN control system in the LAN via respective SDN control data plane interfaces (CDPIs). The SDN controller analyzes a WDS performance report and a LAN performance report and provides a WDS configuration instruction(s) and/or a LAN configuration instruction(s) to the WDS control system and/or the LAN control system to reconfigure a WDS element(s) and/or a LAN element(s) to improve quality-of-experiences (QoEs) of the communications system. Monitoring and optimizing the WDS and the LAN based on a unified software-based network management platform can improve performance at reduced operational costs and complexity.
An optical shuffle cable comprises a first cable section, a second cable section, and an intermediate cable section between the first and second cable sections. The first cable section includes a plurality of optical fibers formed as a plurality of first optical fiber ribbons. The plurality of first optical fiber ribbons are stacked to arrange the plurality of optical fibers of the first cable section in a first array. The second cable section includes a plurality of optical fibers formed as a plurality of second optical fiber ribbons. The plurality of second optical fiber ribbons are stacked to arrange the plurality of optical fibers of the second cable section in a second array. The first and second arrays have respective first and second orientations that are perpendicular to each other such that the plurality of first optical fiber ribbons and the plurality of second optical fiber ribbons are shuffled between the first and second orientations within the intermediate cable section. Related cable assemblies and methods are also disclosed.
Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to hybrid optical fiber ferrules and methods of fabricating the same. In one embodiment, an optical fiber ferrule includes a glass faceplate, a plastic body molded about the glass faceplate, and at least one fiber through-hole extending through the plastic body. In another embodiment, a method of fabricating an optical fiber ferrule includes disposing a glass faceplate within a die comprising at least one fiber die pin, an injecting the die with plastic to form a plastic body such that the glass faceplate is embedded within the plastic body, wherein the at least one fiber die pin defines at least one fiber through-hole. Other materials with suitable coefficients of thermal expansion may be used for the faceplates of the fiber optic ferrules according to the concepts disclosed.
Optical connections and optical receptacle bodies are disclosed. In one embodiment, an optical connection includes an optical chip, a receptacle body and first and second alignment pins. The optical chip includes a surface, an edge extending from the surface, and at least one optical waveguide within the optical chip and terminating at the edge. The receptacle body includes a first surface, a second surface, a first groove at the second surface, a second groove at the second surface, and a through-hole extending from the first surface to the second surface, wherein the through-hole is disposed between the first groove and the second groove. The first alignment pin is disposed on the surface of the optical chip and within the first groove of the receptacle body. The second alignment pin is disposed on the surface of the optical chip and within the second groove of the receptacle body.
An integrated electrical and optoelectronic package comprises an optical subassembly for the conversion of data between an optical and electrical format, an electronic chip including an integrated electric circuit for processing the data in the electrical format and an interposer. The interposer is configured as a supporting substrate to support the optical subassembly and the electronic chip. An optical connector may be coupled to the package. The optical subassembly comprises an optical adaptor used as an interface between a ferrule of the optical connector and an optoelectronic chip of the optical subassembly. Optical fibers of the optical cable are aligned to optical waveguides of the optoelectronic chip by at least one alignment pin of the optical adaptor.
A photonic adaptor has a first face side to couple the photonic adaptor to an optical connector and a second face side to couple the photonic adaptor to an optoelectronic substrate. The photonic adaptor comprises a plurality of optical fibers being arranged between the first face side and the second face side of the photonic adaptor. The photonic adaptor comprises at least one alignment pin projecting out of at least the first face side of the photonic adaptor. The at least one alignment pin is configured to be inserted in the optical connector to align optical fibers of an optical cable to the optical fibers of the photonic adaptor.
The nozzle (100) includes a nozzle body having a front end (102) with a recess (103) defining a recessed wall (105). The recess (103) is elongate in a first direction. The recess (103) receives a front-end section of a ferrule (210) of a multi-fiber connector to define gap, wherein the front-end section has an elongate end face (212). The nozzle (100) has first and second channels (120) that are elongate in the first direction and have respective first and second front-end openings at the recessed wall (105). The first and second front-end openings are spaced apart in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. A cleaning fluid (22) flows from the first channel into the gap and then out the second channel, including over the ferrule end faces (212) and end faces of optical fibers supported by the ferrule (210). A flow-disrupting feature on the recessed wall generates turbulent flow to enhance cleaning.
Embodiments of the disclosure are directed to a fiber optic apparatus for retrofit fiber optic connectivity. The fiber optic apparatus is configured to reduce the size and footprint of a typical fiber optic cabinet for retrofit deployment within existing copper infrastructure, while allowing a user to provide and manage fiber optic network connections between a network provider and a plurality of subscribers. In an exemplary embodiment, the fiber optic apparatus decreases width by vertically aligning features of the fiber optic apparatus, and decreases depth by angled mounting of splitter parking and horizontal positioning of vertically stacked ribbon-fanout kit (RFK) sets. Further, the fiber optic apparatus includes flexible tubing attached to a detachable strain relief bracket configured for removal the detachable strain relief bracket from the frame and reattachment to the telecommunications cabinet to facilitate flexibility in mounting of the fiber optic apparatus and fiber deployment.
The glass waveguide assembly includes a substrate with glass optical waveguides formed in the body of the glass substrate without adding or removing any glass from the substrate body. The glass optical waveguides run generally from a front-end section to a back-end section. A protective coating is formed over at least a portion of the top surface of the glass substrate where the glass optical waveguides reside. Optical connectors are formed at or adjacent the back end at corresponding connector regions. Each connector includes an end portion of at least one of the glass optical waveguides. In some configurations, the glass waveguide assembly includes a bend section that facilitates forming an optical interconnection in a photonic system between an optical-electrical printed circuit board and photonic integrated circuit.
G02B 6/12 - Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings of the optical waveguide type of the integrated circuit kind
G02B 6/43 - Arrangements comprising a plurality of opto-electronic elements and associated optical interconnections
29.
FIBER OPTIC ASSEMBLY AND METHOD INCLUDING PIN SECTION(S) FOR RETAINING FIBER OPTIC CONNECTOR
Fiber optic assemblies and related fabrication methods include a retaining member having at least one pin section that is configured to extend through an opening defined in at least one side wall of a body structure, to permit the at least one pin section to cooperate with at least one feature of a fiber optic connector received in a cavity of the body structure to thereby retain the fiber optic connector in the cavity. Exemplary body structures include dust caps, adapters, patch panels, fiber optic modules, and the like.
At least one group of loose optical fibers is restrained at multiple locations during fabrication of a fiber optic cable assembly using rear and front ferrule boots, thereby avoiding a need for traditional ribbonizing techniques. The group(s) of loose optical fibers are inserted through one or more apertures defined in each of the rear ferrule boot and the front ferrule boot, and inserted through at least one group of bores defined in a ferrule. A rear portion of the ferrule receives at least a portion of the front ferrule boot. A manufacturing fixture including a removable jig may retain a rear ferrule boot and a medial section of the group(s) of loose optical fibers, while the front ferrule boot and a terminal section of the group(s) of loose optical fibers are positioned outside the fixture for further processing. A fiber optic cable assembly including front and rear ferrule boots, as well as methods of fabrication, are further provided.
A ferrule boot for a fiber optic cable includes a front body portion defining at least one aperture, and includes at least one rear body portion defining at least one guide channel that facilitates insertion of loose optical fiber segments through the at least one aperture. At least a portion of each guide channel lacks a top surface boundary that is registered with a top surface of a corresponding aperture, such that an accessible (e.g., open) top portion is provided to ease insertion of at least one group of optical fibers into the at least one guide channel, with the optical fibers preferably being non-ribbonized. Fiber optic cable assemblies and methods for fabrication utilizing the ferrule boot are further provided.
A traceable cable assembly includes a traceable cable, a first connector at a first end of the traceable cable, and a second connector at a second end of the traceable cable assembly. The traceable cable has at least one data transmission element, a jacket at least partially surrounding the data transmission element, and an optical fiber extending along at least a portion of the length of the traceable cable. The optical fiber includes a first end having a first bend and a second end having a second bend. The first and second bends may be equal to or less than ninety degrees so that the optical fiber facilitates identification of the second connector when a launch light is injected in the first end of the optical fiber, and the optical fiber facilitates identification of the first connector when the launch light is injected in the second end of the optical fiber.
An equipment cabinet with a movable stile is disclosed herein. In an exemplary embodiment, the equipment cabinet comprises a housing body defining a front opening, independently operable first and second doors, and a movable stile positioned within the front opening and between the first and second doors. First and second sealing pads are positioned between the movable stile and the housing body when the movable stile is in a closed position. First and second sealing gaskets, respectively, are attached to interiors of the first and second doors, where at least a portion of each of the first and second sealing gaskets are positioned between the movable stile and the first or second doors when the first and second doors are closed. Thus, the equipment cabinet has independently operable doors and facilitates increased access to an interior of the equipment cabinet while maintaining an environmental seal.
A rollable optical fiber ribbon includes a plurality of optical transmission elements, wherein each optical transmission element includes an optical core surrounded by a cladding of a different refractive index than the optical core, the cladding surrounded by a fiber coating layer, the fiber coating layer having an inner surface contacting the cladding and an outer surface defining an exterior surface of the optical transmission elements; and a coupling element coupled to and supporting the plurality of optical transmission elements in an array. The coupling element forms a chevron pattern and is formed from a flexible polymeric material such that the plurality of optical transmission elements are reversibly movable from an unrolled position in which the plurality of optical transmission elements are substantially aligned with each other to a rolled position.
A low attenuation optical cable is provided. The cable includes an outer cable jacket and at least one buffer tube surrounded by the cable jacket. The cable includes a plural number of optical fibers located within the channel of the at least one buffer tube. The cable includes small sized active particles located within the buffer tube, and an average maximum outer dimension of the active particles within the buffer tube is ≤ 50 microns. The small sized active particles reduce microbending-based attenuation otherwise seen with larger sized active particles, particularly within densely packed buffer tubes.
G02B 6/04 - Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings formed by bundles of fibres
G02B 6/44 - Mechanical structures for providing tensile strength and external protection for fibres, e.g. optical transmission cables
An armored cable includes a core and an armor surrounding the core. The armor includes at least one armor access feature formed in the armor to weaken the armor at the access feature. A jacket surrounds the armor and the jacket includes a primary portion of a first extruded polymeric material and at least one discontinuity of a second extruded polymeric material in the primary portion, the discontinuity extending along a length of the cable, and the first material being different from the second material, wherein the bond between the discontinuity and the primary portion allows the jacket to be separated at the discontinuity to provide access to the core, and the at least one armor access feature and the at least one discontinuity are arranged proximate to each other to allow access to the core.
A cleaning nozzle (100) includes an outer housing having a central axis (AN) and an inner surface (150) that defines an outer housing interior (138). The inner housing (150) resides within the outer housing interior (138) along the central axis and has an inner surface that defines an inner flow channel (168). The inner flow channel supports flow of the cleaning fluid and has a converging taper and a flow disrupter element (200). The nozzle assembly may include an adapter (40) that receives a front end (102) of the nozzle and that also holds a ferrule (60) that supports an optical fiber (90) having an end face (94). The nozzle assembly (20) allows the nozzle (100) to direct a jet stream of cleaning fluid (32) to the ferrule end face (74) and the fiber end face (94). The flow disrupter (200) causes the jet stream to have a time-varying direction that enhances the cleaning of the ferrule end face (74) and the optical fiber end face (94).
A polymer composition is provided. The polymer composition includes a polyolefin, at least 30% by weight of a thermoplastic elastomer, and a filler material. When the polymer composition is formed into an article having a longitudinal axis, the polymer composition has an average coefficient of thermal expansion along a longitudinal axis of less than or equal to 150x10-6m/mK as measured from -40C to 25C. Further, the polymer composition has an elastic modulus of less than 3000 MPa as measured using dynamic mechanical analysis (ASTM D4065), and the polymer composition has an elongation at break of greater than 200% along the longitudinal axis (measured according to ASTM D638). An article made from the polymer composition and a cable including the polymer composition are also provided.
C08L 23/02 - Compositions of homopolymers or copolymers of unsaturated aliphatic hydrocarbons having only one carbon-to-carbon double bond; Compositions of derivatives of such polymers not modified by chemical after-treatment
G02B 6/44 - Mechanical structures for providing tensile strength and external protection for fibres, e.g. optical transmission cables
H01B 3/28 - Insulators or insulating bodies characterised by the insulating materials; Selection of materials for their insulating or dielectric properties mainly consisting of organic substances natural or synthetic rubbers
H01B 7/17 - Protection against damage caused by external factors, e.g. sheaths or armouring
39.
CONNECTOR TUNING METHOD AND FERRULE HOLDER FOR FIBER OPTIC CABLE ASSEMBLIES
A method for assembling a fiber optic connector utilizes a manufacturing fixture with multiple fingers that are removably affixed to an outer surface of a ferrule holder having at least one keying feature. A core position of an optical fiber relative to a ferrule retained by the ferrule holder is determined, followed by relative rotation between the ferrule holder and the manufacturing fixture to place the core position in a preferred angular orientation, and a housing is affixed over the ferrule holder the maintain the angular orientation of the core position, followed by removal of the manufacturing fixture. A ferrule holder includes at least one keying feature and at least one channel extending in a circumferential direction along an outer surface of a body structure, with a plurality of recesses extending in an axial direction along the outer surface.
A fiber optic cable includes a cable core of core elements and a protective sheath surrounding the core elements, an armor surrounding the cable core, the armor comprising a single overlap portion when the fiber optic cable is viewed in cross-section, and a jacket surrounding the armor, the jacket having at least two longitudinal discontinuities extruded therein. A method of accessing the cable core without the use of ripcords includes removing a portion of the armor in an access section by pulling the armor away from the cable core so that an overlap portion separates around the cable core as it is being pulled past the cable core. A protective sheath protects the core elements as the armor is being pulled around the cable core.
G02B 6/036 - Optical fibres with cladding core or cladding comprising multiple layers
G02B 6/04 - Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings formed by bundles of fibres
41.
CLEANING NOZZLE, APPARATUS, NOZZLE ASSEMBLY, AND METHODS FOR OPTICAL FIBER CONNECTORS
A nozzle is used for cleaning an optical fiber connector with a cleaning fluid. The optical fiber connector includes a connector housing and a ferrule supported within an interior of the connector housing. The nozzle has inner and outer housing members that respectively define an inner channel and an outer channel. The inner channel is sized to accommodate a front-end section of the ferrule. The inner and outer channels configured to be in fluid communication through at least a portion of the interior of the connector housing when the front-end section of the ferrule resides within the inner channel. The nozzle assembly includes the nozzle and the optical fiber connector. Methods of removing contaminants from an optical fiber connector using a nozzle are also disclosed.
An optical interface device for a photonic integrated system includes a plug and a receptacle. The receptacle is operably arranged on a PIC that supports waveguides. The plug operably supports optical fibers. The receptacle and plug are configured to operably engage to establish optical communication between the optical fibers and the waveguides. A tab on the receptacle is configured to constrain longitudinal motion while allowing for lateral motion of the receptacle to adjust its position relative to the PIC to optimize alignment. The plug can include a spacer sized to fit within a recess defined by the tab to further facilitate alignment. The plug can also include lenses to establish the optical communication between the optical fibers and the waveguides. The receptacle and plug can be engaged and disengaged in a manner similar to conventional electrical connectors.
A crush resistant, kink resistant optical cable including crush resistant, kink resistant optical fiber buffer tubes and systems and method for making the same are provided. The buffer tubes include a depression pattern formed along the outer surface of the buffer tube. The depression pattern provides areas of decreased thickness in the buffer tube facilitating flexibility and kink resistance. The system and method relates to laser ablation for forming the depression pattern in the buffer tube.
G02B 6/44 - Mechanical structures for providing tensile strength and external protection for fibres, e.g. optical transmission cables
B41F 17/10 - Printing apparatus or machines of special types or for particular purposes, not otherwise provided for for printing on filamentary or elongated articles or material, or on articles with cylindrical surfaces on articles or material of indefinite length, e.g. wires, hoses, tubes or yarns
G02B 6/10 - Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings of the optical waveguide type
H01B 7/36 - Insulated conductors or cables characterised by their form with distinguishing or length marks
H01B 13/34 - Apparatus or processes specially adapted for manufacturing conductors or cables for marking conductors or cables
H02G 1/12 - Methods or apparatus specially adapted for installing, maintaining, repairing, or dismantling electric cables or lines for removing insulation or armouring from cables, e.g. from the end thereof
44.
DISTRIBUTION POINT UNIT TO EXCHANGE COMMUNICATION DATA BETWEEN A SERVICE PROVIDER AND SUBSCRIBERS
A distribution point unit to exchange communication data between a service provider and subscribers. The distribution point unit may include a first port to couple the distribution point unit to an optical data network to exchange communication data between the distribution point unit and the service provider, and a second port to couple the distribution point unit to an electrical data network to exchange the communication data between the subscribers and the distribution point unit. The distribution point unit may also include a third port to couple the distribution point unit to an electrical device, the third port being configured to provide control data to control the electrical device.
An optical interface device for a photonic integrated system includes a plug and a receptacle. The receptacle is operably arranged on a PIC that supports waveguides. The plug operably supports optical fibers. The receptacle and plug are configured to operably engage to establish optical communication between the optical fibers and the waveguides. A tab on the receptacle is configured to constrain longitudinal motion while allowing for lateral motion of the receptacle to adjust its position relative to the PIC to optimize alignment. The plug can include a spacer sized to fit within a recess defined by the tab to further facilitate alignment. The receptacle and plug can be engaged and disengaged in a manner similar to conventional electrical connectors.
A fiber optic connector sub-assembly includes a ferrule having a front end, a rear end, and a ferrule bore extending between the front and rear ends along a longitudinal axis. The fiber optic connector sub-assembly also includes a bonding agent disposed in the ferrule bore and having first and second ends along the longitudinal axis. The bonding agent has been melted and solidified at the first and second ends.
An optical fiber ribbon and a related cable are provided. The ribbon includes a first group of at least one optical fiber and a second group of at least two optical fibers coupled together. The ribbon includes a first hinge coupling the first group to the second group. The hinge allows movement of the first group and the second group of optical fibers relative to each other such that the ribbon is moveable between an aligned position and a collapsed position. The number of optical fibers in the first group is less than the number of optical fibers in second group.
Methods of forming ion-exchanged waveguides in glass substrates are disclosed. In one embodiment, a method of forming a waveguide in an ion-exchanged glass substrate having an ion-exchanged layer extending from a surface to a depth of layer of the ion-exchanged glass substrate includes locally heating at least one band at the surface of the ion-exchanged glass substrate to diffuse ions in the ion-exchanged layer within the at least one band. A concentration of ions within the at least one band is less than a concentration of ions outside of the at least one band, and at least one waveguide is defined within the ion-exchanged layer adjacent the at least one band. In some embodiments, the at least one waveguide is embedded within the ion-exchanged glass substrate such that an upper surface of the at least one waveguide is below the surface of the glass substrate by a depth d.
C03C 21/00 - Treatment of glass, not in the form of fibres or filaments, by diffusing ions or metals into the surface
C03C 23/00 - Other surface treatment of glass not in the form of fibres or filaments
F21V 8/00 - Use of light guides, e.g. fibre optic devices, in lighting devices or systems
G02B 6/10 - Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings of the optical waveguide type
G02B 1/12 - Optical coatings produced by application to, or surface treatment of, optical elements by surface treatment, e.g. by irradiation
49.
DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR CHECKING THE CONTINUITY OF AT LEAST ONE SPLICE WITHIN A FIBER OPTIC CONNECTOR
A system includes a plurality of different types of fiber optic connectors each having at least one stub optical fiber configured to be spliced to at least one cable optical fiber. The system also includes a tool configured to: a) receive and detect the different types of fiber optic connectors; and b) set a threshold value for an acceptable indication of continuity for at least one splice between the at least one stub optical fiber and the at least one cable optical fiber based on which type of the fiber optic connector is received and detected.
Methods of securing an optical fiber within an optical fiber connector include applying heat to a front-end section of a ferrule through a heating sleeve. The heating sleeve at least partially surrounds the front-end section of the ferrule and heats a bonding agent that resides within the ferrule a securing temperature. The optical fiber is inserted into the optical fiber connector and through the bonding agent. The optical fiber is secured in the ferrule axial bore by the bonding agent when the bonding agent reaches the securing temperature.
A flexible optical ribbon (10) and associated systems and methods of manufacturing are provided. The ribbon (10) includes a plurality of optical transmission elements (16) and an inner layer (24) comprising a cross-linked polymer material and an outer surface (26). The outer surface (26) of the inner layer (24) includes first areas having first concentrations of uncrosslinked polymer material and second areas having second concentrations of uncrosslinked polymer material. The first concentrations are greater than the second concentrations. The ribbon (10) includes an outer polymer layer (12) having an inner surface interfacing with the outer surface of the inner layer. The outer polymer layer (12) has a higher level of bonding to the inner layer at the first areas than at the second areas due to the ability of the outer polymer material to bond or crosslink with the larger numbers of uncrosslinked polymer material in the first areas.
A sealed multiport splitter device and method are disclosed. The fiber optic multiport comprises housing with an interior defining a first chamber and an adjacent second chamber. An optical splitter with a plurality of splitter legs connect to a plurality of optical fibers located in the first chamber. Potting material is disposed in the first chamber to physically secure the optical splitter, the splitter legs and the optical fibers. A wall having a first face and a second face separates the first chamber from the second chamber. The wall has a plurality of slots extended from the first face to the second face. The plurality of optical fibers route through the plurality of slots between the first chamber and the second chamber. A blocking material is adjacent to the wall to inhibit ingress of the potting material into the second chamber while the potting material is being cured.
Optical assemblies, interconnection substrates and methods of forming optical links are disclosed. In one embodiment, an optical assembly includes a first waveguide substrate, a second waveguide substrate, and an interconnection substrate having a first end face, a second end face, and a laser written waveguide. The first waveguide substrate is coupled to the first end face of the interconnection substrate, and the first waveguide is optically coupled to the laser written waveguide. The laser written waveguide terminates at the second end face of the interconnection substrate. The second waveguide substrate is coupled to the second end face of the interconnection substrate such that the second waveguide is optically coupled to the laser written waveguide at the second end face.
Optical waveguide connector elements for optical coupling optical components of an optical assembly, such as the edge coupling of optical printed circuit boards. In one embodiment, a waveguide connector element includes a first end face and a second end face, a pre-existing optical waveguide within or on a surface of the waveguide connector element, and a laser written optical waveguide optically coupled to an end of the pre-existing optical waveguide and extending toward one of the first end face and the second end face.
Optical filter devices for providing a reflective event in an optical network are disclosed. In one embodiment, the optical filter device comprises an optical filter assembly for reflecting one or more preselected wavelengths and a housing. In one embodiment, the housing comprises a plug end and a receptacle end for optical connection into a link or connection node of an optical network. The housing comprises a passageway between the plug end and the receptacle end, and the plug end comprises a shroud with a single fiber connector footprint. At least a portion of the optical filter assembly is disposed within the passageway of the housing. The optical filter devices disclosed allow the network operator the flexibility to choose where to position a reflective location in the optical network along with the ability to move, add or change the reflective location as desired.
A fiber optic cable comprises a core subassembly, comprising at least one optical transmission element, wherein the optical transmission element comprises at least one optical fiber and a tube surrounding the at least one optical fiber. The fiber optic cable further comprises a jacket surrounding the core subassembly. The jacket is configured as a multi-layered jacket that comprises an inner layer comprising a first flame retardant material, an intermediate layer comprising a second flame retardant material being different from the first flame retardant material of the inner layer, and an outer layer comprising a non-flame retardant material having a lower coefficient of friction than the first and the second flame retardant material.
G02B 6/44 - Mechanical structures for providing tensile strength and external protection for fibres, e.g. optical transmission cables
H01B 7/295 - Protection against damage caused by external factors, e.g. sheaths or armouring by extremes of temperature or by flame using material resistant to flame
57.
FIBER OPTIC CONNECTOR ASSEMBLY WITH IN-LINE SPLITTER
A fiber optic connector assembly having a body connected to first and second tubular enclosures at their first ends is disclosed. The first tubular enclosure extends in a first direction. The second tubular enclosure extends in a second direction. An optical splitter is positioned in the body proximal to the first ends of the first tubular enclosure and the second tubular enclosure. A first waveguide extends from the optical splitter in the first direction through the first tubular enclosure. A second waveguide extends from the optical splitter in the second direction through the second tubular enclosure. A first fiber connector in optical communication with the first waveguide is connected to a second end of the first tubular enclosure. A second fiber connector in optical communication with the second waveguide and is connected to a second end of the second tubular enclosure. In some embodiments, the body may be sealed from environmental elements.
G02B 6/28 - Optical coupling means having data bus means, i.e. plural waveguides interconnected and providing an inherently bidirectional system by mixing and splitting signals
G02B 6/30 - Optical coupling means for use between fibre and thin-film device
G02B 6/44 - Mechanical structures for providing tensile strength and external protection for fibres, e.g. optical transmission cables
58.
IMPROVED TUNABLE OPTICAL FIBER CONNECTORS AND CONNECTOR AND CABLE SUB-ASSEMBLIES AND ASSEMBLIES
A tunable connector formed from a connector sub-assembly (10), a housing (60) and an outer housing (50) is disclosed. The connector sub-assembly (10) has an inner housing (60), a ferrule (20) held by a ferrule holder (80) and a retention body (90). The housing (50) is formed from two shells (51) that define a longitudinal passageway that supports a portion of an optical fiber cable (30) to define cable assembly. The longitudinal passageway has a front-end section that supports a section of the retention body (90) to inhibit longitudinal movement but to allow for rotation of the retention body (90) and thus the connector sub-assembly to a select orientation. An outer housing (50) operably disposed over the inner housing (60) inhibits rotation of the retention body (90) and thus the connector sub-assembly once an orientation is selected. Connector and cable sub-assemblies and assemblies, as well as a method of tuning the tunable connector, are also disclosed.
A fiber optic connection device having a casing with a first end and a second end is disclosed. An optical splitter is positioned in the casing and has an input proximal to the first end of the casing and an output proximal to the second end of the casing. A first optical interface is located adjacent to the first end and is in optical communication with the input of the optical splitter. The first optical interface includes a first optical fiber interconnection point. A second optical interface is located adjacent the second end of the casing and is in optical communication with the output of the optical splitter. The second optical interface includes a second optical fiber interconnection point. In some embodiments, the casing may provide protection from environmental elements.
G02B 6/28 - Optical coupling means having data bus means, i.e. plural waveguides interconnected and providing an inherently bidirectional system by mixing and splitting signals
G02B 6/30 - Optical coupling means for use between fibre and thin-film device
G02B 6/44 - Mechanical structures for providing tensile strength and external protection for fibres, e.g. optical transmission cables
An optical communication cable is provided. The optical communication cable includes a cable jacket and a plurality of optical fiber subunits surrounded by the cable jacket. Each optical fiber subunit includes a subunit jacket and a plurality of optical fibers located within the subunit passage. Each optical fiber includes an outer polymer buffer coating, such as a tight buffer coating. The outer cable jacket and/or the outer polymer buffer coating of the optical fibers is formed from a halogen containing polymer material including a fire retardant material, and the subunit jacket is formed from a polyolefin polymer material including a fire retardant material.
A fiber optic connector (10) includes a connector sub-assembly (12a) having a connector body (18), a latch arm (26) extending outwardly and rearwardly from a portion of the connector body, a housing (34) in which a rear portion of the connector sub-assembly (12a) is received, and a trigger (38) extending outwardly from the housing (34) and over the end of the latch arm (26). An end of the latch arm (26) can be depressed toward the connector body (18), and the trigger (38) is configured to flex toward the housing (34) to depress the latch arm (26). The connector (10) includes a locking member (40) movable between a rearward position in which the locking member (40) prevents the trigger (38) from depressing the latch arm (26), and a forward position in which the locking member (40) allows the trigger (38) to depress the latch arm (26).
A telecommunications closure includes an enclosure defining an interior space, a plurality of panel holders in the interior space; and a panel positioned in one of the plurality of panel holders. The panel includes a point of connection component that may include an electrical-optical conversion component, an optical-electrical conversion component, an optical-optical conversion component, or an electrical-electrical conversion component.
G02B 6/44 - Mechanical structures for providing tensile strength and external protection for fibres, e.g. optical transmission cables
H04Q 1/06 - Cable ducts or mountings specially adapted for exchange installations
63.
MULTIPLE APPLICATION DEVICES FOR PROVIDING SERVICES IN WIRELESS DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMS (WDS), INCLUDING DISTRIBUTED ANTENNA SYSTEMS (DAS), AND RELATED SYSTEMS AND METHODS
Multiple application devices (such as multiple application modules (MAMs) and multiple application units (MAUs)) for providing services in wireless distribution systems (WDSs) are disclosed. The multiple application devices are wireless telecommunication circuitry associated with wireless distribution components in a WDS. By associating multiple application devices into components of a WDS, network services, and applications within the WDS can be provided. The WDS may comprise a central unit, a plurality of remote units, and a plurality of multiple application devices associated with at least one of the central unit and at least one of the remote units. Each of the plurality of multiple application devices comprises at least one multiple applications processor, is connected to at least one other of the plurality of multiple application devices, and is configured to coordinate with one other multiple application device of the plurality of multiple application devices to provide a user requested service.
A fiber bulge ("bulge") formed in an end of an optical fiber for positioning the optical fiber in a ferrule bore is disclosed. An energy source is controlled to direct focused energy to the end of the optical fiber extended from the front end face of the ferrule to expose and melt the end of the optical fiber into a bulge of desired geometry and size. The bulge comprises a cross-sectional region having an outer surface having a minimum outer diameter larger than the inner diameter of the ferrule bore. Thus, the optical fiber may be pulled back in the ferrule bore such that at least a portion of the outer surface of the interface region of the bulge interferes with and engages the front opening of the ferrule bore to position the fiber core within the ferrule bore.
An optical cable and method for forming an optical cable is provided. The cable includes a cable jacket including an inner surface defining a channel and an outer surface and also includes a plurality of optical fibers located within the channel. The cable includes a seam within the cable jacket that couples together opposing longitudinal edges of a wrapped thermoplastic sheet which forms the cable jacket and maintains the cable jacket in the wrapped configuration around the plurality of optical fibers. The method includes forming an outer cable jacket by wrapping a sheet of thermoplastic material around a plurality of optical core elements. The method includes melting together portions of thermoplastic material of opposing longitudinal edges of the wrapped sheet such that a seam is formed holding the sheet of thermoplastic material in the wrapped configuration around the core elements.
A fiber optic connector having a ferrule extending along a longitudinal axis and a ferrule holder from which the ferrule extends. The fiber optic connector also includes a housing having a housing body in which the ferrule holder is received and a housing cap configured to be attached to the housing body. The housing cap defines a front end of the housing when attached to the housing body. The ferrule holder and housing body allow rotation of the ferrule holder relative to the housing body about the longitudinal axis when the housing cap is not attached to the housing body. The housing cap restricts rotation of the ferrule holder relative to the housing body about the longitudinal axis when the housing cap is attached to the housing body.
Optical ports providing passive alignment connectivity are disclosed. In one embodiment, an optical port includes a substrate having a surface, a photonic silicon chip, a connector body, and a plurality of spacer elements. The photonic silicon chip includes an electrical coupling surface, an upper surface and an optical coupling surface. The optical coupling surface is positioned between the electrical coupling surface and the upper surface. The photonic silicon chip further includes at least one waveguide terminating at the optical coupling surface, and a chip engagement feature disposed on the upper surface. The connector body includes a first alignment feature, a second alignment feature, a mounting surface, and a connector engagement feature at the mounting surface. The connector engagement feature mates with the chip engagement feature. The plurality of spacer elements is disposed between the electrical coupling surface of the photonic silicon chip and the surface of the substrate.
A modular optical fiber distribution unit and related distribution system is provided. The distribution unit includes a shifted fiber arrangement that allows for modular network assembly. For example, the distribution unit includes a distribution body including a plurality of body optical fibers and a field optical fiber leg including a plurality of field optical fibers including at least one active field optical fiber and at least one inactive field optical fiber. Each active field tether optical fiber is optically coupled to one of the body optical fibers and at least one body optical fiber is not coupled to an active field optical fiber. The positioning of the active and inactive field tether optical fibers in a predetermined manner disclosed herein allows for modular network assembly.
A low smoke, zero halogen (LSZH) polymer composition is provided. The LSZH polymer composition includes a polymer resin, and a flame retardant package dispersed within the polymer resin. Less than 25% by weight of the polymer composition is the flame retardant package. The flame retardant package includes an acid source, a carbon source, and an LSZH additive. The LSZH additive includes a polyoxometalate ionic liquid and a synergist carrier. The LSZH polymer composition has a limiting oxygen index of greater than 31%. The LSZH polymer compound is suitable for use in electrical or tele- communication cables.
A highly packed, low bend loss optical cable is provided. The cable includes an outer cable jacket and a plurality of buffer tubes surrounded by the cable jacket. Each buffer tube includes an inner surface defining a channel having a diameter, D1, and an outer surface facing an inner surface of the cable jacket. The cable includes a plural number, N, of optical fibers, located within the channel of each buffer tube and surrounded by the inner surface of the buffer tube. Each optical fiber has an outer diameter, D2. The N optical fibers are densely packed within each buffer tube such that a diameter ratio parameter, Ω, is defined as the ratio D1/D2, and is 2.25+0.143(N) ≤ Ω ≤ 1.14+0.313(N).
A fiber optic multiport having a housing with an enclosure defining an interior of the housing is disclosed. A plurality of ports is coupled to the housing, and includes at least one input port and a plurality of output ports. A plurality of fiber optic adapters is positioned in respective ones of the plurality of ports. The fiber optic adapters are configured to receive and connect optical fibers at an interior and an exterior connection side. A plurality of optical fibers is disposed within the interior of the housing. Each of the plurality of optical fibers is routed to at least one of the fiber optic adapters at the interior connection side. Port connection indicia visibly discernible from the exterior of the multiport are indicative of a connection type accessible via the respective one of the plurality of output ports.
An optical communication cable and related method is provided. The cable includes a cable body and a plurality of optical transmission elements surrounded by the cable body. The cable includes a reinforcement layer surrounding the plurality of optical transmission elements and located between the cable body and the plurality of optical transmission elements. The reinforcement layer includes an outer surface and a channel defined in the outer surface that extends in the longitudinal direction along at least a portion of the length of the cable. The cable includes an elongate strength element extending in the longitudinal direction within the channel.
G02B 6/04 - Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings formed by bundles of fibres
B29D 11/00 - Producing optical elements, e.g. lenses or prisms
73.
MATERIAL FORMULATION FOR OVER MOLD COVER FIBER OPTIC CABLE
A polyurethane composition is provided. The polyurethane composition includes a first part of a first polytetramethylene oxide, a second polytetramethylene oxide, and a castor oil based polyol. The second polytetramethylene oxide has a higher viscosity than the first polytetramethylene oxide. The polyurethane composition also includes a second part of methylene diphenyl diisocyanate. Also provided is a fiber optic cable assembly incorporating the polyurethane composition as an overmold. The overmold has a glass transition temperature of less than -40 C measured according to differential scanning calorimetry. Further provided is a method of applying an overmold to a fiber optic cable assembly.
Methods of reshaping ferrules (20) used in optical fiber cables assemblies (170) are disclosed. The reshaping methods reduce a core-to-ferrule concentricity error (E), which improves coupling efficiency and optical transmission. The methods include measuring a distance (δ) and angular direction (θ) from a true center (30) of the ferrule to the core (46), wherein the true center (30) is based on an outer surface (26) of the ferrule. The methods also include reshaping at least a portion (26P) of the ferrule (20) to define a new true center (30') of the ferrule (20) and reduce the distance (δ). A variety of reshaping techniques are also disclosed.
A fiber optic terminal includes an enclosure defining an interior space having a plurality module holders and at least one module removably positioned in one of the plurality of module holders. Each removable module may include at least one input adapter and a plurality of output adapters. Each removable module may also include one or more splitters, cable storage components, pass-through components, or parking components. The fiber optic module may also include first and second arms extending from the front side of the body and a handle coupled to the first and second arms. The handle may be rotatable between a closed position and an open position, and may also be removable from the first and second arms when the handle is in the open position.
A traceable cable and method of forming the same. The cable (3) includes at least one data transmission element (7), a jacket (10), and a side-emitting optical fiber (20). The side-emitting optical fiber (20) includes a core (30) having a first index of refraction and a cladding (32) having a second index of refraction that is different than the first index of refraction. The cladding (32) substantially surrounding the core (30) and has an exterior surface (36) with spaced apart scattering sites (40) penetrating the exterior surface. The scattering sites (40) are capable of scattering light so that the scattered light is emitted from the side-emitting optical fiber (20) at discrete locations. The core (30) also includes one or more mode coupling features (102) capable of changing at least some low order mode light in the side-emitting optical fiber (20) to high order mode light, thereby increasing light emitted from the scattering sites.
G02B 6/44 - Mechanical structures for providing tensile strength and external protection for fibres, e.g. optical transmission cables
F21V 8/00 - Use of light guides, e.g. fibre optic devices, in lighting devices or systems
77.
MULTIPLE APPLICATION MODULES (MAM) AND/OR MULTIPLE APPLICATION UNITS (MAU) FOR PROVIDING SERVICES IN WIRELESS DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMS (WDS), INCLUDING DISTRIBUTED ANTENNA SYSTEMS (DAS), AND RELATED SYSTEMS AND METHODS
Multiple application devices (such as multiple application modules (MAMs) and multiple application units (MAUs) for receiving of signals in wireless distribution systems (WDSs), including but not limited to distributed antenna systems (DASs), and providing a variety of network services are disclosed. The multiple application devices are wireless telecommunication circuitry associated with wireless distribution components in a WDS. By associating multiple application devices into components of a WDS, network services and applications within the WDS can be provided. A multiple application device includes a multiple applications processor and is configured to: receive at least one of downlink and uplink signals; determine that a request has been received in one of the downlink and uplink for a service from another device; execute, via the at least one multiple applications processor, an application layer application corresponding to the requested service; and communicate application level information sufficient to perform the requested service.
Ferrule assemblies (100) and coupling apparatus (40) as used to form optical interface devices for photonics systems are disclosed. The ferrule assemblies (100) include a ferrule made of a glass substrate (110) and a pair of spaced apart alignment members (142), which can be made of a glass or a polymer. The ferrule assembly (100) supports an array (130) of optical fibers (132). The coupling apparatus (40) is incorporated into a photonic integrated circuit assembly (20) that has optical waveguides (32) and that includes spaced apart alignment members (42), which can also be made of a glass or a polymer. The ferrule assembly (100) and the coupling apparatus (40) have complementary alignment features that align the optical waveguides (32) and the optical fibers (132) when forming the optical interface device. The alignment members have a geometry that allows them to be used to form both the ferrule assemblies and the coupling apparatus.
Methods of forming glass-based ferrules (100) and glass-based coupling apparatus (40) for use in forming optical interface devices for photonic systems are disclosed and include forming glass or polymer alignment members (42) that each includes an alignment feature. Methods of forming the alignment members (42) are also disclosed, and include glass drawing and molding processes. The alignment members (42) can be attached in a spaced apart configuration to the surface of a glass support substrate (110) to form a ferrule. The alignment members (42) can also be attached to the surface of a photonic integrated circuit (21) to form a coupling apparatus (40). The alignment members (42) can be made in a way that allows for same alignment members to be used to form either the ferrules or the coupling apparatus.
An optical fiber distribution system is provided. The system includes a distribution cable having a plurality of cable optical fibers. The system includes a plurality of optical fiber tethers each including a tether optical fiber optically coupled to a cable optical fiber. The tethers provide access to and distribute the optical network at positions along the length of the optical fiber. The system is configured to provide access area organization and/or low profiles, such as through staggered tether lengths, tether webbing and/or access area sleeve arrangements.
G02B 6/04 - Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings formed by bundles of fibres
A traceable cable assembly includes a traceable cable having at least one data transmission element, a jacket at least partially surrounding the data transmission element, and first and second tracing optical fibers extending along at least a portion of a length of the traceable cable. The traceable cable assembly also includes a connector provided at each end of the traceable cable. The first and second tracing optical fibers each have a light launch end and a light emission end. The light launch ends of the first and second tracing optical fibers each include a bend. The bend allows for launching of light into the light launch ends without disengaging the first or second connectors from corresponding connector receptacles.
An optical fiber cleaving apparatus (10) that employs a microchip laser system (100) for cleaving an optical fiber (20) is disclosed. The microchip laser system is operably arranged relative to an optical system that receives an initial laser beam (116) and forms a focused laser beam (116F) that includes a focus spot (FS). The focus spot is directed to the outer surface of the optical fiber to create an optical damage zone (36) that includes at least one micro-crack necessary for performing the cleaving operation. Methods of aligning the optical fiber to the focus spot and performing the cleaving operation using the cleaving apparatus are also disclosed.
A tunable optical fiber connector for use with an optical fiber cable that supports an optical fiber is disclosed. The connector includes a ferrule, an inner housing and an outer housing. The ferrule has a diameter dF, an outer surface, and an axial bore configured to operably support a bare fiber portion of the optical fiber. The inner housing has an interior and a front-end section that defines a front end of the inner housing. The interior of the inner housing supports the ferrule so that the ferrule front end extends beyond the inner housing front end by a distance DF, wherein dF≤ DF≤ 4•dF. The outer housing has an interior configured to receive the inner housing in one of at least four possible orientations of the inner housing. Cable assemblies and sub-assemblies, as well as connector sub-assemblies, are also disclosed.
A ferrule-based fiber optic connectors having a connector assembly with a ferrule insertion stop for limiting the insertion of a ferrule into a ferrule sleeve are disclosed. In one embodiment, the fiber optic connector comprising a connector assembly, ferrule insertion stop, a connector sleeve assembly and a female coupling housing. The connector assembly comprises a ferrule and a resilient member for biasing the ferrule forward and the connector sleeve assembly comprises a housing and a ferrule sleeve, where the ferrule of the connector assembly is at least partially disposed in the ferrule sleeve when assembled. The ferrule insertion stop limits the depth that the ferrule may be inserted into the ferrule sleeve.
A ferrule-based fiber optic connectors having a ferrule retraction balancing characteristic for preserving optical performance are disclosed. The fiber optic connector comprises a connector assembly, a connector sleeve assembly and a balancing resilient member. The connector assembly comprises a ferrule and a resilient member for biasing the ferrule forward and the connector sleeve assembly comprises a housing and a ferrule sleeve, where the connector assembly is at least partially disposed in the passageway of the housing and the ferrule of the connector assembly is at least partially disposed in the ferrule sleeve. The balancing resilient member biases the housing to a forward position with a the biasing resilient member having a predetermined resilient force that is greater than the friction force required for displacement of the ferrule within the ferrule sleeve.
A ferrule-based fiber optic connectors having a ferrule retraction balancing characteristic for preserving optical performance are disclosed. The fiber optic connector comprises a connector assembly, a connector sleeve assembly and a balancing resilient member. The connector assembly comprises a ferrule and a resilient member for biasing the ferrule forward and the connector sleeve assembly comprises a housing and a ferrule sleeve, where the connector assembly is at least partially disposed in the passageway of the housing and the ferrule of the connector assembly is at least partially disposed in the ferrule sleeve. The balancing resilient member biases the housing to a forward position with a the biasing resilient member having a predetermined resilient force that is greater than the friction force required for displacement of the ferrule within the ferrule sleeve.
Interposer assemblies and arrangements for coupling at least one optical fiber to at least one optoelectronic device are disclosed. Interposer assembly (10) comprises an interposer (100) including at least one optical waveguide (110) comprising a first end (111) and a second end (112), and a substrate (400) comprising the at least one optoelectronic device (410), at least one optical receiving/emitting element (420) and at least one optical channel (430). The interposer (100) and the substrate (400) are in optical communication so that light coupled out of the at least one optical waveguide (110) is coupled in the at least one optical receiving/emitting element (420) and/or light coupled out of the at least one optical receiving/emitting element (420) is coupled in the at least one optical waveguide (110) of the interposer (100).
G02B 6/42 - Coupling light guides with opto-electronic elements
G02B 6/30 - Optical coupling means for use between fibre and thin-film device
G02B 6/126 - Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings of the optical waveguide type of the integrated circuit kind using polarisation effects
A strain relief boot and a fiber optic cable assembly are described. The strain relief boot has a first conduit made of at least a first material. The first conduit has a front segment and a rear segment. The rear segment includes at least one discontinuity to make the rear segment more flexible than the front segment. The rear segment also includes at least one projection extending outwardly from the rear segment at a location adjacent to the at least one discontinuity. The strain relief boot also has a second conduit made from at least a second material that is less rigid than the first material. The second conduit at least partially surrounds at least the rear segment of the first conduit and extends rearwardly of the first conduit.
A fiber optic connector is described herein. The fiber optic connector includes a ferrule for supporting at least one optical fiber of a fiber optic cable, a ferrule holder from which the ferrule extends, a housing in which the ferrule holder is received, and a strain relief device at least partially located within the housing. The strain relief device has at least one resilient clamping member selectively applying a compressive force to at least a portion of the fiber optic cable. The strain relief device also has an actuator at least partially surrounding the ferrule holder, and used to place the at least one resilient clamping member into compressed contact with the fiber optic cable, thus retaining the fiber optic cable within the housing.
A sensor network and a method for fabricating the same are provided. The sensor network includes an optical cable, and a plurality of fixing structures configured to fix the optical cable, for grid formation. A first part and a second part of the optical cable are arranged in parallel, contacting each other in each of the fixing structures.
F16L 3/10 - Supports for pipes, cables or protective tubing, e.g. hangers, holders, clamps, cleats, clips, brackets substantially surrounding the pipe, cable or protective tubing divided, i.e. with two members engaging the pipe, cable or protective tubing
F16L 3/13 - Supports for pipes, cables or protective tubing, e.g. hangers, holders, clamps, cleats, clips, brackets substantially surrounding the pipe, cable or protective tubing comprising a member substantially surrounding the pipe, cable or protective tubing and engaging it by snap action
F16L 3/22 - Supports for pipes, cables or protective tubing, e.g. hangers, holders, clamps, cleats, clips, brackets specially adapted for supporting a number of parallel pipes at intervals
G08B 13/12 - Mechanical actuation by the breaking or disturbance of stretched cords or wires
G08B 13/186 - Actuation by interference with heat, light, or radiation of shorter wavelength; Actuation by intruding sources of heat, light, or radiation of shorter wavelength using active radiation detection systems by interruption of a radiation beam or barrier using light guides, e.g. optical fibres
G01V 8/10 - Detecting, e.g. by using light barriers
91.
TRACEABLE CABLE SYSTEM, TRACEABLE CABLE ASSEMBLY AND CONNECTOR
A traceable cable assembly includes a traceable cable having at least one data transmission element, a jacket at least partially surrounding the at least one data transmission element, and a tracing optical fiber incorporated with and extending along at least a portion of a length of the traceable cable. The traceable cable assembly also includes a connector provided at each end of the traceable cable. Each connector has a connector housing having opposed first and second ends, the second end being coupled to the traceable cable, and a diffuser supported by the connector housing. The connector housing is configured to receive tracer light from the tracing optical fiber and allow the tracer light to leave the connector housing. The diffuser is also configured to diffuse the tracer light leaving the connector housing.
Hardened fiber optic connectors having a mechanical splice assembly are disclosed. The mechanical splice assembly is attached to a first end of an optical waveguide such as an optical fiber of a fiber optic cable by way of a stub optical fiber, thereby connectorizing the hardened connector. In one embodiment, the hardened connector includes an inner housing having two shells for securing a tensile element of the cable and securing the mechanical splice assembly so that a ferrule assembly may translate. Further assembly of the hardened connector has the inner housing fitting into a shroud of the hardened connector. The shroud aides in mating the hardened connector with a complimentary device and the shroud may have any suitable configuration. The hardened connector may also include features for fiber buckling, sealing, cable strain relief or a pre-assembly for ease of installation.
A portion of a core of an optical fiber may be positioned eccentrically in a bore of a ferrule. The portion of the core may be part of an asymmetric cross-sectional region of the optical fiber, and the asymmetric cross-sectional region may include an asymmetric outer surface. The asymmetric outer surface may include an inclined portion spaced outwardly from the portion of the core in a first direction. There may be contact between the inclined portion and the ferrule, so that a lengthwise axis of the portion of the core is spaced apart from a lengthwise axis of the bore in a second direction, and the first and second directions extend substantially opposite from one another.
A recirculating powder applicator includes an applicator body having an inlet on an upstream surface and an outlet on a downstream surface, wherein the inlet and outlet define a passage that extends transversely through the thickness of the applicator body, a powder conduit, an air inlet, an exhaust aperture located on one of the upstream or downstream surfaces, and a circulation chamber located on the interior of the applicator body. The powder conduit and air inlet are in fluid communication with the passage and the passage is in fluid communication with the circulation chamber. A method of applying powder to a substrate during a continuous process includes using a recirculating powder applicator.
B05C 19/04 - Apparatus specially adapted for applying particulate materials to surfaces the particulate material being projected, poured or allowed to flow onto the surface of the work
95.
FLEXIBLE OPTICAL FIBER RIBBON WITH RIBBON BODY FLEXIBILITY RECESSES
A flexible optical ribbon and associated method is provided. The ribbon includes a plurality of optical transmission elements and a polymeric ribbon body surrounding the plurality of optical transmission elements. The ribbon body includes a plurality of recesses formed in the ribbon body, and each recess has a depth extending from the first major surface toward the plurality of optical transmission elements and a length extending along the ribbon body between a first recess end and a second recess end. The first recess end is defined by a concave curved surface of the polymeric ribbon body.
A fiber optic cable comprises a core subassembly comprising at least one optical fiber and a tube surrounding the optical fiber. A multi-layered jacket surrounds the core subassembly, wherein the jacket comprises an inner layer comprising a flame retardant (FR) material and an outer layer comprising a non flame retardant material having a lower coefficient of friction than the flame retardant material. A method of manufacturing an optical fiber cable includes providing a core subassembly and co-extruding a multi-layered jacket around the core subassembly, wherein the multi-layered jacket includes an inner layer comprising a flame retardant (FR) material and an outer layer comprising a non flame retardant material having a lower coefficient of friction than the flame retardant.
A fiber-bundle sub-assembly (50) includes an array of fiber bundles (20) each having at least one optical fiber (30). The fiber bundles (20) have select relative positions in the array (20). The sub-assembly (50) includes first and second connecting elements (80) that run along the array and that are secured to axially staggered top and bottom anchors (60) to define first and second connecting spans (84) that cross first and second sides of the array, with the first and second sides defined by first and second sets of fiber bundles. The first and second connecting spans (84) are respectively attached to the first and second sets of fibers bundles (20) to maintain the select relative positions of the fiber bundles even when the connecting spans are cut near one of the anchors during processing. A loose-tube cable (12) that includes the fiber-bundle sub-assembly and a method of connectorizing the fiber bundles while maintaining their select positions are also disclosed.
A ferrule for an optical connector includes a body, a cavity extending into the body from a back end of the body, and first and second groups of micro-holes extending into the cavity from a front end of the body. The cavity includes at least one bottom surface extending under an opening in a top surface of the body and below a first plane that extends through or below the first and second groups of micro-holes. The cavity also includes a divider extending under the opening in the top surface of the body, with the divider having a divider surface positioned above the first plane such that the divider surface is offset from the at least one bottom surface.
Design tools and methods of use for designing, ordering, and providing manufacturing and installation instructions for waveguide system networks include a system design tool including a location selection module to determine a selected location, a satellite imagery component to provide an image based on the selected location, an overlay module to overlay a design on the image, and a customization module to customize the design. The system design tool includes one or more design modules to at least one of automatically output and build via user input one or more design options based on the image, and a design customization module to select the design from the one or more design options. The system design tool includes a positioning module to set a pair of connectivity points such that a cable length may be automatically calculated based on a calculated distance between the pair of connectivity points.
A modular fiber optic cabinet system comprises a fiber optic cabinet and a transition skirt. The fiber optic cabinet comprises a cabinet top support portion, a cabinet bottom support portion, a pair of cabinet sidewalls extending therebetween, and a pair of downwardly extending cabinet flange portions. The transition skirt comprises a skirt top support portion, a skirt bottom support portion, a pair of skirt side walls extending therebetween, and a pair of downwardly extending skirt flange portions. The skirt bottom support portion of the transition skirt is configured to matingly engage with the top support portion of the fiber optic cabinet such that the skirt flange portions of the transition skirt cover respective portions of the cabinet side walls. The skirt top support portion of the transition skirt is similarly configured to matingly engage with the cabinet bottom support portion of the fiber optic cabinet.
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