A cable clamp includes an elongated, open-top base having a first end, a second end, and a central region. A suspension arm extends from the open-top base. An eyelet having an opening, a top portion, and a base portion is coupled to the suspension arm. The eyelet base portion has a first width and the top portion has a second width greater than the first width. A keeper is coupled to the base.
F16L 3/10 - Supports pour tuyaux, pour câbles ou pour conduits de protection, p.ex. potences, pattes de fixation, attaches, brides, colliers entourant pratiquement le tuyau, le câble ou le conduit de protection fractionnés, c. à d. à deux éléments en prise avec le tuyau, le câble ou le conduit de protection
An optical waveguide ferrule includes a body (120) and a low- expansion material (112) on one end (116) of the body. The body of the ferrule is formed from a first material and has a bore (118) extending lengthwise therethrough. The bore is configured to receive an optical fiber along a central axis (L) of the ferrule. The low-expansion material (112) is configured to be heated without damaging the body (120).
Gradient index (GRIN) lens assemblies employing lens alignment channels, as well as fiber optic connectors and fiber optic cable assemblies employing such GRIN lens assemblies, are disclosed. In one embodiment, a GRIN lens assembly includes a lens holder body having a mating face, a surface extending from the mating face, and a lens alignment channel. The lens alignment channel is defined by a narrow portion extending from the surface to a first depth and at least partially along a length of the surface, and a wide portion extending from the narrow portion to a second depth. A lens opening defined by the wide portion of the lens alignment channel at the mating face is disposed in the mating face. The wide portion of the lens alignment channel is configured to support a GRIN lens disposed in the lens alignment channel.
Fiber optic connectors and components for fiber optic connectors with improved side-loading performance are disclosed along with methods for making the same. The fiber optic connector (100) includes a ferrule (12), a ferrule holder (114), and a housing (16). The ferrule holder (114) has a forward portion with a spherical feature (115) that includes a first portion with a compound surface for cooperating with the housing (16). The spherical feature (115) of the ferrule holder (114) permits rotational translation of the ferrule holder (114) in two degrees of freedom relative to the housing (16) and inhibits the longitudinal translation of the ferrule holder (114) in same two degrees of freedom relative to the housing (16), thereby providing improved side-loading performance.
A fiber optic assembly includes an optical cable supporting a plurality of optical fibers and a furcation having a housing integrated with the optical cable. The furcation separates optical fibers of the plurality into a first set and a second set. The first set includes a loopback channel that enters the furcation, loops around within the furcation, and then returns to the optical cable such that optical transmissions passing along the loopback channel pass twice through the optical cable and in and out of the housing in opposing directions. The second set passes through the furcation without looping back into the optical cable. A secure optical network comprising the fiber optic assembly is also disclosed.
Hybrid intra-cell / inter-cell remote unit antenna bonding in multiple-input, multiple-output (MIMO) distributed antenna systems (DASs), and related components, systems, and methods. The MIMO DASs are capable of supporting distributed MIMO communications with client devices. To provide enhanced MIMO coverage areas, hybrid intra-cell / inter-cell remote unit antenna bonding is employed. For example, if a client device has acceptable MIMO communications signal quality with MIMO antennas within a single remote unit, intra-cell bonding of the MIMO antennas can be employed to provide MIMO coverage for MIMO communications, which may avoid power imbalance issues that would result with inter-cell bonded MIMO antennas. However, if a client device has acceptable MIMO communications signal quality with MIMO antennas in a separate, neighboring remote unit(s), inter-cell bonding of the MIMO antennas can be employed to provide MIMO coverage for MIMO communications.
A data center connector (DCC) system includes a receptacle connector assembly that includes a receptacle body having a plug receiving end, a panel insertion end, and a plug receiving chamber at the plug receiving end. A receptacle ferrule is located in the receptacle body. The receptacle ferrule is moveable axially within the receptacle body and biased toward the plug receiving end. A plug connector assembly includes a plug body having an insertion end sized to be received within the plug receiving chamber of the receptacle body. A plug ferrule is fixed axially within the plug body and is configured to contact and move the receptacle ferrule the receptacle ferrule axially when the plug body is inserted within the plug receiving chamber of the receptacle body.
A rotatable furcation assembly (6) for furcating optical fibers (212) of a multi-fiber fiber- optic cable (210) to form multiple connecting cables is disclosed. The furcation assembly (6) includes a furcation plug (100) having a central, longitudinal axis and an interior sized to accommodate the furcation of the optical fibers (212). The furcation assembly (6) also has a clip member (10) with a holding feature (14) and at least one mounting feature (50). The holding feature (14) has a truncated tubular body that holds the furcation plug (100) such that the furcation plug can axially rotate.
A fiber optic assembly includes first (152) and second (154) sets of ferrules. The first set of ferrules includes a first ferrule (114) supporting a first plurality of optical fibers including first (G1) and second (G2) groups of optical fibers, a second ferrule (116) supporting a second plurality of optical fibers including third (G3) and fourth (G4) groups of optical fibers, and a third ferrule (118) supporting a third plurality of optical fibers including fifth (G5) and sixth (G6) groups of optical fibers. The second set of ferrules includes a fourth ferrule (122) and a fifth ferrule (124). The fourth ferrule (122) supports optical fibers of the first (G1), second (G2), third (G3), and fourth (G4) groups of optical fibers, and the fifth ferrule (124) supports optical fibers of the third (G3), fourth (G4), fifth (G5), and sixth (G6) groups of optical fibers.
Embodiments disclosed herein include furcation plugs (10) having segregated channels (62) to guide epoxy or another bonding agent into passageways for optical fiber furcation, and related assemblies and methods. The furcation plugs, as part of fiber optic furcation assemblies, are typically installed on fiber optic equipment that provides fiber optic components to which the fiber optic cables are connected. The fiber optic cables are inserted into fiber passageways (38) of the furcation plugs and secured to the furcation plugs with a bonding agent such as epoxy, which is guided into the fiber passageways (38) through segregated channels (62) of the furcation plug. In this manner, epoxy may be more uniformly distributed within the fiber passageway to improve the epoxy bonds by reducing the occurrence of air pockets.
Embodiments for binding material processing of gradient index (GRIN) rods into GRIN lenses attachable to optical devices, components, and methods are disclosed. A cylindrical GRIN rod comprises an optical axis and a longitudinal axis at a center axis, where an index of refraction may be greatest at the optical axis. The GRIN rod includes GRIN lenses along the longitudinal axis. The GRIN lenses include a first optical surface and a second optical surface opposite the first optical surface. Separation processes and devices may separate the GRIN lenses from the GRIN rods and these processes may be automated. Other processes may polish the first and the second optical surfaces. A gripper may insert the GRIN lens into an optical device.
Disclosed are optical connections (100) having a coupling portion (A) that includes a piston (10) and a magnet (14) along with complimentary optical connections. In one embodiment, the optical connection includes an optical interface portion (26) having at least one optical channel and a coupling portion. The coupling portion (A) includes a piston (10) that is movable between a first position and a second position, a resilient member (12) for biasing the piston to the first position and a magnet (14) for retaining the piston at the second position. In one embodiment, the piston may be disposed in a body of the optical connection. The piston may be formed from a ferrous material and since it is not magnetic it does not attract metal trash; however, it still allows coupling (e.g., mating) of optical connections using magnetic retention. Additionally, the piston may optionally include a cover portion (101) if desired.
Disclosed are lens blocks and methods for making the same. In one embodiment, the lens block includes at least one optical channel having an optical interface portion on a first side, and one or more openings for receiving one or more magnetic materials. The one or more openings may be located on any suitable side of the lens block as desired. The magnetic materials provide attachment with a complimentary device having an optical interface. Consequently, the lens block allows for quick and easy assembly along with a robust structure for a large number of mating/unmating cycles. In other embodiments, the lens blocks disclosed may further include one or more electrical contacts for making a hybrid connection.
A ferrule for optical waveguides includes an exterior and an interior of the ferrule. The interior of the ferrule has a bore defined therein that is configured to receive an optical waveguide. Material of the ferrule is such that the material changes from the interior to the exterior of the ferrule, where the thermal expansion coefficient of the material transitions from less than 30x10-7 /°C at the interior of the ferrule to greater than 70x10-7 /°C at the exterior of the ferrule. The thermal expansion coefficient of the material may change by way of discrete layers in the material between the interior and exterior of the ferrule.
A connector assembly for an optical waveguide includes an optical waveguide and a ferrule for receiving the optical waveguide. The ferrule has an exterior and a bore defined by an interior surface of the ferrule. The ferrule includes a main body formed from a first material and a layer of a second material on the interior surface of the ferrule. The first material includes at least one of a glass, a glass-ceramic, a ceramic, and a cermet. The second material includes a silica or silica-rich phase.
Optical connectors (110, 210, 310), optical coupling systems (100, 300), and methods of optical coupling are disclosed. In one embodiment, an optical connector (110) includes a plug housing (113), at least one optical fiber (101), an internal coupling surface (119), and a translating element (120). The translating element (120) has a first coupling surface (122), a second coupling surface (124), and at least one optical component (126) within the translating element. The translating element (120) is biased such that when the optical connector (110) is in a disengaged state, the translating element is positioned toward an optical connector opening (125) and the second coupling surface (124) of the translating element is displaced from the internal coupling surface (119). When the optical connector (110) is in an engaged state, the translating element (120) is positioned such that the second coupling surface (124) of the translating element is positioned at the internal coupling surface (119) and the optical fiber (101) is optically coupled to the optical component (126).
A surge protection apparatus for a power cable assembly is disclosed. The surge protection apparatus is located in-line with the power cable and may be integrated into or be a separate component from the power cable assembly and provide surge protection without the need to locate a surge protection device in a terminal. In this way, the terminal remains small and lightweight while the surge protection can be provided as needed. The apparatus may be used for power-only assemblies as well as hybrid power/fiber assemblies.
H01R 24/48 - Dispositifs de couplage en deux pièces, ou l'une des pièces qui coopèrent dans ces dispositifs, caractérisés par leur structure générale ayant des contacts disposés concentriquement ou coaxialement spécialement adaptés à la haute fréquence comprenant des moyens d'adaptation d'impédance ou des composants électriques, p.ex. des filtres ou des interrupteurs comprenant des dispositifs de protection, p.ex. de protection contre les surtensions
Platforms for connecting fiber optic cable assemblies to fiber optic equipment using a universal footprint are disclosed. In one embodiment, a platform for connecting at least one fiber optic cable assembly to fiber optic equipment includes a coupling surface (102) having at least one cable engagement feature (120a-d), wherein the at least one cable engagement feature is configured to couple the at least one fiber optic cable assembly to the coupling surface, and a plurality of plate engagement features (110) configured to be removably coupled to a plurality of equipment engagement features positioned on the fiber optic equipment. Fiber optic cable assembly coupling systems for coupling fiber optic cable assemblies to fiber optic equipment are also disclosed. A securing pin (112) is provided at a flange (107) connected to the platform.
Angular alignment of optical fibers for fiber optic ribbon cables and related methods are disclosed. Employing optical fibers disposed in a ribbon matrix can increase bandwidth between two interconnection points. In one embodiment, optical fibers (14(1)-14(N)) are angularly aligned during the process of forming a fiber optic ribbon cable (10). To angularly align the optical fibers, each of the optical fibers include an angular alignment feature (20(1)-20(N)) to facilitate uniform or substantially uniform angular orientation along a cable when the optical fibers are prepared to be disposed in the ribbon matrix to form a fiber optic ribbon cable. By purposefully aligning the optical fibers during formation of the fiber optic ribbon cable, end portions of the optical fibers are aligned in the ribbon matrix. End portions of the matrix are not required to be removed to expose and align the end portions of optical fibers when the cable is connectorized.
Optical connections for optical communication having in-line optical paths and magnetic coupling portions are disclosed. In one embodiment, an optical connection includes a lens block (24) having an optical interface portion (25) that defines an in-line optical path without an optical turn for optical signals propagating through the lens block, and a magnetic coupling portion (22) disposed about at least a portion of the lens block In another embodiment, a method of making an optical connection that includes providing a circuit board having one or more active components and placing a lens block on the circuit board. The lens block includes an optical interface portion defining an in-line optical path. The method further includes placing at least one magnetic coupling portion about the lens block. The at least one magnetic coupling portion is configured as a bulk magnetic material. Electronic devices and fiber optic cable assemblies are also disclosed.
Docking stations, electronic devices, fiber optic cable assemblies, and display devices incorporating optical connections including a magnetic coupling portion are disclosed. One embodiment of the disclosure relates to a docking station for an electronic device having a major surface. The docking station includes a mating surface operable to contact a major surface of an electronic device, and an optical connection disposed in the mating surface. The optical connection includes an optical interface portion and a magnetic coupling portion positioned adjacent to the optical interface portion. Another embodiment of the disclosure relates to an electronic device including a major surface having a cavity, and an optical connection disposed in the cavity. The optical connection includes an optical interface portion and a magnetic coupling portion positioned adjacent to the optical interface portion. The optical interface portion is offset from the major surface. Display devices are also disclosed.
Cable assemblies, optical connector assemblies, and optical connector subassemblies (150) employing a translating element (120) and a unitary alignment pin (132) are disclosed. In one embodiment, an optical connector assembly includes a connector housing defining a connector enclosure and a connector housing opening, a unitary alignment pin (132) including a first pin portion (135a) and a second pin portion (135b), and a translating element (120) including a first bore (121a) and a second bore (121b). The unitary alignment pin is secured within the connector enclosure. The first pin portion is disposed within the first bore and the second pin portion is disposed within the second bore such that the translating element translates along the first pin portion and the second pin portion within the connector enclosure. The translating element may be a cover and/or include an optical interface.
A ferrule holder includes first (92), second (96), and third (98) bores in fluid communication with each other but having different bore widths. The third bore is defined between first and second bores. A transition area (100) between the second and third bore defines a stop configured and sized to prevent at least a portion of a section of optical fiber (82) from entering the third bore. This allows the section of optical fiber that does enter the third bore to be surrounded by adhesive (90) before entering a ferrule received in the first bore of the ferrule holder. The first bore has at least one groove (102) disposed on a bore surface to vent the adhesive during curing and thereby prevent the formation of voids around the section of optical fiber in the third bore.
A fiber optic harness assembly includes first through sixth groups of optical fibers and first and second connector sets. The groups of optical fibers are arranged in data transmission pairs such that one group of each pair is configured to transmit data and the other group is configured to receive data. The pairs of the groups are organized such that a first pair includes the first and second groups, a second pair includes the third and fourth groups, and a third pair includes the fifth and sixth groups. The optical fibers of the groups are sized and routed to facilitate low-skew and efficient parallel optics connections for high-speed data transmission.
Embodiments disclosed herein include fiber optic connectors employing a movable optical interface connected by optical fibers to a fiber optic cable, components and methods. In one embodiment, the movable optical interface (12) moves between an extended position (32) for cleaning by the user of the movable optical interface and a retracted position (34) to optically connect the fiber optic connector (610) to an optical device (68) in a mechanically-secure manner. Because the fiber optic cable (24) employs the movable optical interfaces (12), embodiments described herein involve one or more fiber protection features to inhibit optical fiber attenuation and/or damage to the end portions of the optical fibers.
A unitary tray for operably supporting a fiber-optic module is disclosed. The tray includes a guide base and guide rails that define a central channel sized to accommodate the fiber-optic module. The fiber-optic module can be slid into a central module position from the back or the front of the tray, and then locked in the central module position. Opposing unitary side guides with slotted channels can be used to form a drawer that holds one or more of the trays. The drawers can be used to form fiber-optic equipment such as an interconnection unit that supports the modules and that allows for conveniently making multiple optical fiber interconnections.
Dust caps, fiber optic connectors, fiber optic splitter modules and fiber optic connector systems including interlocking aligning features for fiber optic connector parking in fiber distribution hub networks are disclosed. According to one embodiment, a dust cap for mounting upon a ferrule of a fiber optic connector includes a sleeve extending lengthwise between opposed first and second ends. The sleeve defines a lengthwise extending bore that opens through the first end for receiving at least a portion of the ferrule. The dust cap further includes an aligning feature at the second end of the sleeve. The aligning feature includes a neck portion and an interlocking portion such that the interlocking portion has a width that is greater than a width of the neck portion. The aligning feature is configured to slidably engage with a slot of a parking clip.
Embodiments disclosed herein include ferrule assemblies employing mechanical interfaces for optical fibers and related component and methods. The ferrule assemblies may be used in fiber optic connectors to precisely position the optical fiber relative to the ferrule to facilitate an optical connection with another optical device. In certain embodiments disclosed herein, the ferrule assemblies include a ferrule that includes an inner surface forming a ferrule bore. Each of the ferrules may also include an end portion of an optical fiber disposed in the ferrule bore. The inner surface of the ferrule bore abuts against an outer surface of the optical fiber to form a mechanical interface. In this manner, the mechanical interface secures the optical fiber within the ferrule bore and precisely positioned relative to the ferrule. This mechanical interface may eliminate the need for epoxy or other means to secure the optical fiber within the ferrule bore.
A pre-terminated optical fiber assembly with a ferrule having front and rear opposed faces and at least one fiber bore defined longitudinally therethrough includes a glass optical fiber is disposed within the at least one fiber bore with the fiber fused to the ferrule at a location at least 1 mm deep inside the bore. A method for fusing is also disclosed. The ferrule is desirably composed of an inorganic composite material, the composite comprising a material gradient from at least 75% by volume of a first inorganic material to at least 75% by volume of second inorganic material in the radially inward direction, where the first inorganic material has a fracture toughness of at least 1 MPa o m, and the second inorganic material has a softening point of no greater than 1000 C, desirably no greater than 900 C.
The application relates to optical fiber-based distributed antenna systems DAS or WLAN systems without a DAS infrastructure which are provided indoors, such as inside a building to provide indoor wireless communication for clients. Without such a system, wireless reception may be poor or not possible for wireless communication clients located inside the building. Other services may be negatively affected or not possible due to the indoor environment. For example, it may be desired or required to provide localization services for a client, such as emergency 911 (E911) services as an example. If the client is located indoors, techniques such as global positioning services (GPS) may not be effective at providing or determining the location of the client. Further, triangulation techniques from the outside network may not be able to determine the location of the client. This problem is solved by the application, in that the systems disclosed herein provide location information to a mobile terminal (24) via a remote unit, such as a WLAN AP (66) or a beacon terminal (78). The location information is provided within a Service Set Identifier SSID and comprises three dimensional coordinates of the remote unit. The three dimensional coordinates include the floor level. If the wireless client (24) may receive SSID signals from a plurality of APs, the client may calculate through any appropriate algorithm it's location. The wireless client (24) may include for this purpose an applet. Once calculated, the location may then be provided to other programs that can use that location, e.g., provision of E911 services or other location based services.
Distributed communications systems employing one or more free-space-optics (FSO) links, and related components and methods are disclosed. In one embodiment, a distributed communications system is provided in which one or more links of a communications path located between a central unit and a remote unit include FSO provided by one or more FSO components. The FSO component(s) can replace optical fiber (or copper) cable assembly and the associated electrical/optical and optical/electrical converter circuitry. Note that FSO and fiber cable links may be used in a mixed fashion depending on the particular requirements of a given installation project for a distributed communications system. Use of such FSO components may allow temporary installations to be effectuated with greater ease and more economically since physical cable is not required for the FSO portion of the communications path.
H04B 10/112 - Transmission dans la ligne de visée sur une distance étendue
H04B 10/2575 - Radio sur fibre, p.ex. signal radio modulé en fréquence sur une porteuse optique
H04B 10/80 - Aspects optiques concernant l’utilisation de la transmission optique pour des applications spécifiques non prévues dans les groupes , p.ex. alimentation par faisceau optique ou transmission optique dans l’eau
32.
ULTRASOUND-BASED LOCALIZATION OF CLIENT DEVICES WITH INERTIAL NAVIGATION SUPPLEMENT IN DISTRIBUTED COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS AND RELATED DEVICES AND METHODS
Spatially located ultrasound beacons (42(1), 42(2)... ) are provided in known locations within a distributed communication system (40). The ultrasound beacons are configured to emit ultrasound pulses (46) that can be received by client devices (48) in ultrasound communication range of the beacons. The client devices are configured to analyze the received ultrasound pulses from the beacons to determine their time-difference of arrival and as a result, their location(s) within the distributed communication system. The client devices comprise inertial navigation systems (INS) that calculate client device location as the client device moves, and when received ultrasound signals are below a predefined threshold.
G01S 5/18 - Localisation par coordination de plusieurs déterminations de direction ou de ligne de position; Localisation par coordination de plusieurs déterminations de distance utilisant des ondes ultrasonores, sonores ou infrasonores
G01S 5/26 - Position d'un récepteur obtenue par coordination de plusieurs lignes de position définies par des mesures de différence de parcours
G01S 5/02 - Localisation par coordination de plusieurs déterminations de direction ou de ligne de position; Localisation par coordination de plusieurs déterminations de distance utilisant les ondes radioélectriques
G01S 1/80 - Systèmes pour déterminer une direction ou une ligne de position utilisant la comparaison des temps de transit de signaux synchronisés provenant de transducteurs ou de systèmes de transducteurs non directionnels espacés, c. à d. systèmes à différence de parcours
A fiber optic assembly includes a connector (410) and a cover (416) bonded to an end face of the connector. The connector includes a ferrule (414), where an optical fiber extends through the ferrule and to the end face (412) of the connector (410). An end of the optical fiber is polished proximate to the end face (412). The cover (416) is bonded directly to the end face of the connector, and overlays the polished end of the optical fiber such that the cover protects the optical fiber, limits access of dust to the end face of the connector, and draws loose particulates from the end face upon removal of the cover.
An optical fiber segment includes a glass body with a first end face at a first end of the glass body and a second end face at a second end of the glass body. At least one of the first and second end faces includes a lead-in formation having a sidewall extending inwardly from an entrance at the at least one first and second end faces to an end, the entrance sized to at least partially receive a tip of an optical fiber.
A hybrid cable assembly includes a hybrid cable, tether tubes, and an overmold. The hybrid cable includes both electrical-conductor and fiber-optic elements. The tethers receive a subset of the elements from the hybrid cable at a transition location in the form of a chamber, and the overmold surrounds the transition location. The overmold is elongate, flexible, and has a low profile configured to pass through narrow ducts.
Fiber optic modules (100), fiber optic connectors (12), and methods are disclosed. In one embodiment, a fiber optic module (100) includes a body (110) and a fiber tray (120). The body includes a fiber tray recess (118) extending from a first surface, a fiber-end datum surface (114) positioned at an end of the fiber tray recess, and a plurality of lens surfaces (130). The plurality of lens surfaces, the fiber-end datum surface, and intervening portions of the body define a plurality of lenses each having a linear optical axis. The fiber tray includes a plurality of fiber support features (122) disposed on a first surface. The plurality of fiber support features is configured to receive a plurality of optical fibers. The fiber tray is disposed within the fiber tray recess and secured to the body.
Disclosed is a passive illumination apparatus (20) for improving the visibility of an optical fiber by projecting reflected light to passively illuminate an optical fiber for allowing the user improved visibility for inserting the optical fiber into an orifice (14). One embodiment of the concept uses a passive illumination apparatus having a pattern of one or more colors for reflectively transmitting chromatic light along with an optional contrast surface such as a gray or black stripe for providing a highly contrasting background for the user to view the optical fiber against. The ambient light is transmitted or directed from a reflective surface such as a concave curved region for passively illuminating the optical fiber. The passive illumination apparatus may be used on any suitable device such as a connector installation tool, a splicer, a stripper for an optical fiber coating or a cleaver as desired.
Cable assemblies having small form-factor pulling grips and methods for making the same are disclosed. The cable assembly includes a cable having at least one furcation body attached to a portion of the cable with one or more furcation legs extending from the furcation body, a pulling element, and a protective sleeve. The pulling element is formed from the at least one strength member of the cable and includes a pulling loop, where the pulling element extends beyond one or more of furcation legs. The protective sleeve is disposed directly about a portion of the cable assembly and has a non-cinch configuration about the cable assembly. Non-cinch configuration means that the protective sleeve does not squeeze down and clamp about the cable assembly when a pulling force is applied to the pulling grip, but instead the pulling forces are transferred to the cable assembly using strength members of the fiber optic cable.
A furcation system of an assembly includes a fan-out and a transition tube. The fan-out includes a surface and stations. The surface is flexible such that the surface is configured to be changed from flat to curved. The stations are coupled to one side of the surface and are configured to receive and hold sub-units of a cable, while allowing the sub-units to project from the stations. The stations are spaced apart from one another such that the stations provide separation between the sub-units received by the stations. Bending of the surface moves the stations from a planar arrangement to a three-dimensional arrangement such that the sub-units may project from the stations of the fan-out in planar and three-dimensional arrays. The transition tube of the furcation system is configured to be attached to the fan-out and the cable, and receives the sub-units from the cable and provides the sub-units to the fan-out.
Extremely High Frequency (EHF) distributed antenna systems and related components and methods are disclosed. In one embodiment, a base unit for distributing EHF modulated data signals to a RAU(s) is provided. The base unit includes a downlink data source input configured to receive downlink electrical data signal(s) from a data source. The base unit also includes an E-O converter configured to convert downlink electrical data signal(s) into downlink optical data signal(s). The base unit also includes an oscillator configured to generate an electrical carrier signal at a center frequency in the EHF band. The base unit also includes a modulator configured to combine the downlink optical data signal(s) with the electrical carrier signal to form downlink modulated optical signal(s) comprising a downlink optical data signal(s) modulated at the center frequency of the electrical carrier signal. The modulator is further configured to send the downlink modulated optical signal to the RAU(s).
Gradient index (GRIN) lens holders employing groove alignment feature(s) in recessed cover (178) and single piece components, connectors, and methods are disclosed. In one embodiment, the GRIN lens holder contains one or more internal groove alignment features (192) configured to secure one or more GRIN lenses (168) in the GRIN lens holder. The groove alignment features are also configured to accurately align the end faces of the GRIN lenses. The GRIN lens holders disclosed herein can be provided as part of an optical fiber ferrule and/or a fiber optic component or connector for making optical connections. A fiber optic connector containing the GRIN lens holders disclosed herein may be optically connected to one or more optical fibers in another fiber optic connector or to an optical device, such as a laser-emitting diode (LED), laser diode, or optoelectronic device for light transfer.
G02B 6/42 - Couplage de guides de lumière avec des éléments opto-électroniques
G02B 6/38 - Moyens de couplage mécaniques ayant des moyens d'assemblage fibre à fibre
42.
GRADIENT INDEX (GRIN) LENS HOLDERS EMPLOYING GROOVE ALIGNMENT FEATURE(S) AND TOTAL INTERNAL REFLECTION (TIR) SURFACE, AND RELATED COMPONENTS, CONNECTORS, AND METHODS
Gradient index (GRIN) lens holders employing groove alignment feature(s) and total internal reflection (TIR) surface, and related components, connectors, and methods are disclosed. In one embodiment, the GRIN lens holder contains one or more internal groove alignment features configured to secure one or more GRIN lenses (18, 28) in the GRIN lens holder. The groove alignment features arc also configured to accurately align the end faces of the GRIN lenses. The GRIN lens holders disclosed herein can be provided as part of an optical fiber ferrule (66) and/or a fiber optic component or connector for making optical connections (16). A fiber optic connector containing the GRIN lens holders disclosed herein may be optically connected to one or more optical fibers in another fiber optic connector or to an optical device, such as a laser-emitting diode (LED), laser diode, or opto-electronic device for light transfer.
Optical couplings for optically coupling one or more devices are disclosed. According to one embodiment, an optical coupling (102) includes an optical coupling body, an optical interface (120), and a coded magnetic array (130) located at the optical coupling body. The coded magnetic array (130) has a plurality of magnetic regions (131) configured for mating the optical interface. The optical coupling further includes a reflective surface (127) within the optical coupling body and positioned along an optical path (OPl,OP2) of the optical coupling body. The reflective surface (127) is operable to redirect an optical signal propagating within the optical coupling body such that it propagates through the optical interface (120, 122a, 122b). The optical coupling may be configured as a plug, such as a plug of a connector assembly (101), or as a receptacle, such as a receptacle on an electronic device. Connector assemblies of optical cables (110), optical coupling receptacles, and translating shutter assemblies are also disclosed,
A combination of a pulling grip assembly and a fiber optic cable assembly for installing the fiber optic cable, including: • a flexible grip having an open loop region (102a) for pull-force engagement and a closed region (102b) engaged with the strength member (155) in a fiber optic cable assembly; • a first heat shrunk member positioned about a portion of the distal end of the fiber optic cable assembly and the distal end of cable (150), and • a second heat shrunk member (130) positioned about a portion of the closed region of the flexible grip and the proximal end of the fiber optic cable assembly. • The second heat shrunk member includes a perforation for easy removal of the member. A method of using the pulling grip assembly and a quick release pulling grip kit for installing fiber optic cable, as defined herein, are also disclosed.
G02B 6/44 - Structures mécaniques pour assurer la résistance à la traction et la protection externe des fibres, p.ex. câbles de transmission optique
H02G 1/08 - Méthodes ou appareils spécialement adaptés à l'installation, entretien, réparation, ou démontage des câbles ou lignes électriques pour poser les câbles, p.ex. appareils de pose sur véhicule à travers des tubes ou conduits, p.ex. tringles ou fil de tirage pour pousser ou tirer
G02B 6/54 - Installation souterraine ou sous l'eau; Installation à travers des tubes, des conduits ou des canalisations en utilisant des moyens mécaniques, p.ex. des dispositifs pour tirer ou pousser
45.
METHODS FOR CREATING A DEMARCATION LOCATION IN A STRUCTURE AND ASSOCIATED ASSEMBLIES
Disclosed are methods for creating a demarcation of at least one optical fiber in a structure along with a fiber optic cable. The method may include the steps of providing at least one optical fiber having a covering, heating a portion of the covering, and deforming the covering about the at least one optical fiber at a first location to inhibit movement of the at least one optical fiber with respect to the covering. The method may be applied to one or more optical fibers within a covering such as bare loose fibers, ribbonized fibers, buffered fibers or the like.
A cable attach structure (100) for attaching a fiber-optic cable to a rear end (110) and a connector to a front end is disclosed. In one embodiment, the cable attach structure is a portion of a fiber optic cable assembly having a fiber optic cable with at least one optical fiber and a connector attached to the optical fiber. The fiber optic cable is attached to the cable attach structure at a rear end and circuit board (130) is attached to the cable attach structure at the front end. The cable attach structure also routes the at least one optical fiber away from the centerline of the connector for off-axis fiber routing. In other embodiments, the optical fiber can enter the connector from a first direction and attach to the connector in a second direction if desired.
Fiber optic modules having pigtails and related strain relief constructions for the fiber optic harness are disclosed. The fiber optic module assembly has a fiber pigtail exiting module, the assembly includes a main body of the module defining an internal chamber disposed between a first side and a second side, a plurality of fiber optic components disposed at the first side of the module, and a fiber optic harness including the fiber pigtail. The fiber optic harness includes a plurality of optical fibers within a portion of a protective tube on the pigtail portion and a strain-relief assembly for inhibiting movement between the optical fibers and protective tube. Consequently, the strain-relief assembly secures the plurality of optical fibers and the protective tube to the main body of the module.
Cables jacket are formed by extruding discontinuities in a main cable jacket portion. The discontinuities allow the jacket to be torn to provide access to the cable core. The armor cables have an armor layer with armor access features arranged to work in combination with the discontinuities in the cable jacket to facilitate access to the cable core.
A composite cable breakout assembly is disclosed. The assembly includes an enclosure for receiving a composite cable having a fiber optic cable with at least one optical fiber and an electrical power cable with at least one electrical conductor. The enclosure has at least one port providing passage to the exterior of the enclosure. The at least one optical fiber is terminated by a fiber optic connector and the at least one electrical conductor is terminated by an electrical connector. Alternatively, the at least one optical fiber and the at least one electrical conductor may be terminated by a composite optical/electrical connector. The fiber optic cable and the electrical power cable route to the at least one port enabling connection external to the enclosure for extension of optical signal and electrical power to components external to the enclosure.
Cables jacket (30) are formed by extruding discontinuities (50) in a main cable jacket portion (55). The discontinuities allow the jacket to be torn to provide access to the cable core (20). The discontinuities can be longitudinally extending strips of material in the cable jacket, and can be introduced into the extrudate material flow used to form the main portion through ports in the extrusion head. The discontinuities allow a section of the cable jacket to be pulled away from a remainder of the jacket using a relatively low peel force.
Fiber optic cable demarcations inhibiting movements of optical fibers relative to strength members, and related cable assemblies and methods, are disclosed. By bonding optical fibers (50) to strength members (164,166) with a bonding agent (134) received into at least one cavity (138), a demarcation may be formed inside the cable jacket (62) at a cable jacket interface. The at least one cavity may be disposed within a cable jacket of a fiber optic cable and at the cable jacket interface. The demarcation may bond at least one optical fiber and at least one strength member together to inhibit longitudinal movement of the at least one optical fiber relative to the at least one strength member. In this manner, the demarcation may inhibit optical fiber movement within the fiber optic connector, which may cause tensile forces and/ or buckling of the optical fiber resulting in optical fiber damage and/or optical attenuation.
An attachment structure for attaching a connector to a fiber-optic cable is disclosed. The attachment structure has a sleeve with a central bore that runs generally along a central axis and a front end with a front mounting section for receiving a circuit board or the like. The sleeve has a generally cylindrical main body section with an outer surface at the back end and a front mounting section. The attachment structure can have at least one securing feature formed on the outer surface of the main body section such as an outer barrel of the body so that the at least one strength member can be attached to the securing feature to strain-relieve the cable. The central bore is sized to pass the at least one optical fiber from the fiber-optic cable to the connector. Connectorized fiber-optic cables and fiber-optic- connector assemblies using the attachment structure are also disclosed.
Fiber optic connector assemblies (10) are disclosed that utilize a re¬ verse optical fiber loop (35) within the fiber optic connector to isolate the optical fiber from stresses. In one embodiment, a fiber optic con¬ nector assembly (10) includes an optical fiber (34) having a fiber end (37), and a connector housing (120), wherein the optical fiber (34) enters the connector housing (20) from a first direction (A) and is se¬ cured within the connector housing in a second direction (B), there¬ by forming a reverse optical fiber loop (35) that is free to expand or contract within the connector housing (120). In another embodiment, a fiber optic connector assembly includes an optical fiber (34) hav¬ ing a fiber end (37), a connector housing (120), and a substrate (150) within the connector housing. The optical fiber enters the connector housing over a first surface (151) of the substrate then passes by (i.e., crosses) the first surface (151), and is secured within the connector housing at a second surface (153) of the substrate (150).
In one embodiment, an optical transceiver assembly includes an active component substrate (427), first and second fiber securing devices (480a, 480b), and a holder device (422) coupled to the active component substrate. The holder device includes an active optical component recess (482) that encloses a first and second active optical component (141, 142) of the active component assembly, and first and second fiber-locating holes (482a, 482b) having an engagement feature at the active optical component recess such that an end of first and second fibers inserted into the first and second fiber-locating holes are aligned with the first and second active optical components along the x-, y-, and z-axes. In another embodiment, an optical component assembly includes an active component substrate having a solder ring, a fiber securing device, and an active optical component on the active component substrate. The fiber securing device is aligned with the active optical component by the solder ring.
A fiber optic ribbon cable includes a jacket (320) of the cable, the jacket having a cavity defined therein, an optical element including an optical fiber and extending within the cavity of the jacket, and a dry water-blocking element (340) extending along the optical element within the cavity. The dry water-blocking element is wrapped around the optical element with at least a portion of the dry water-blocking element disposed between another portion of the dry water-blocking element and the optical element, thereby defining an overlapping portion of the dry water-blocking element. The optical element interfaces with the overlapping portion to provide direct or indirect coupling between the optical element and the jacket.
In one embodiment, an optical component assembly (120) includes an active component substrate (127), an active component (141,142) positioned on the active component substrate, a collar (126) and a fiber securing device (122). The collar is coupled to the active component substrate, and the fiber securing device is configured to mate with the collar such that a signal surface of the fiber securing device is located at a predetermined distance from the surface of the active component substrate, and a signal aperture of the fiber securing device is substantially located at a predetermined optical coupling location with respect to the active optical component. In another embodiment, an optical transceiver assembly includes an optically transmissive fiber securing device (222) coupled to and aligned with a surface of the active component substrate (227) using first and second alignment apertures (226a, 226b) that are aligned with first and second alignment locations (237a, 237b) of the active component substrate, respectively.
Translating lens holder assemblies employing bore relief zones, as well as optical connectors employing such lens holder assemblies, are disclosed. In one embodiment, a lens holder assembly includes a lens holder body (40) having a mating face (16), a first forward slide portion (42a) and a first rear slide portion (44a) disposed on a first side of the lens holder body, and a second forward slide portion (42b) and a second rear slide portion (44b) disposed on a second side of the lens holder body. The first forward slide portion is separated from the first rear slide portion by a first bore relief zone (48a), and the second forward slide portion is separated from the second rear slide portion by a second bore relief zone (48b). In one embodiment, the lens holder assembly further includes at least one groove alignment feature disposed in the lens holder body that is configured to support at least one GRIN lens (50).
Gradient index (GRIN) lens holders employing groove alignment feature(s) and a recessed cover, as well as optical connectors and methods employing such GRIN lens holders, are disclosed. In one embodiment, the GRIN lens holder contains one or more internal groove alignment features (136) configured to secure one or more GRIN lenses (94) in the GRIN lens holder. The groove alignment features are also configured to accurately align the end faces of the GRIN lenses. The GRIN lens holder also contains a recessed cover (106) having a front face (126a) that is negatively offset with respect to a mating surface (126b) of the GRIN lens holder. The GRIN lens holders disclosed herein can be provided as part of an optical fiber ferrule and/or a fiber optic component or connector for making optical connections.
Removable strain relief brackets for securing fiber optic cables (44) and/or optical fiber to fiber optic equipment, and related assemblies and methods are disclosed. The removable strain relief brackets comprise lances (48) protruding from a platform and receiving cable ties (40) for securing optical fibre cables (44). The platform is mounted on a tray surface (26) or the like via pin fastener (134) and an angled tab (140, 132) received in a mounting part (102) of the tray surface.
A splitter module (100), comprising an enclosure and a splitter device (104(1) and 104(2) with one or more splitter legs (108) mounted in the enclosure. Each splitter leg has an optical fiber (112) therein extends for a certain length from the splitter. At least one of the splitter legs, and, thereby, the optical fiber, is cut. The cut may be at an angle to the longitudinal axis of optical fiber. The angle may be about 45 degrees. The coating may be stripped off such that the cut end of the optical glass fiber of the at least one output leg is exposed a certain distance. The cut end of the optical glass fiber positions in the interior of the enclosure. A glass-index-matching material, at least partially fills the interior of the enclosure such that the cut end of the optical fiber is embedded in the glass-index-matching material.
An apparatus for toollessly, releasably attaching an optical component to a structure is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a snap fastener attached to the optical component and an accepting feature attached to the structure. When the snap fastener is brought into contact with the accepting feature, the accepting feature accepts the snap fastener thereby toollessly, releasably attaching the optical component to the structure.
G02B 6/44 - Structures mécaniques pour assurer la résistance à la traction et la protection externe des fibres, p.ex. câbles de transmission optique
62.
SYSTEMS, COMPONENTS, AND METHODS FOR PROVIDING LOCATION SERVICES FOR MOBILE/WIRELESS CLIENT DEVICES IN DISTRIBUTED ANTENNA SYSTEMS USING ADDITIONAL SIGNAL PROPAGATION DELAY
Systems, components, and methods for providing location services for mobile/wireless client devices in distributed antenna systems using additional signal propagation delay are disclosed. The location of a client device communicating with an antenna in the distributed antenna system can be correlated to location within at least the communication range of an antenna. To determine with which particular antenna within the distributed antenna system a client device is communicating, the antennas within the distributed antenna system are uniquely identified. In this regard, additional propagation delays are introduced in the communication paths between some or all of the antennas and the head-end equipment in distributed antenna systems to distinguish communications between different antennas. The additional propagation delay can be correlated with a unique antenna, which in turn can be correlated to distance within the distributed antenna system.
Fiber optic cable assemblies having a preconnectorized hardened connector on at least one end of a fiber optic cable that includes a subunit cable surrounded by an upjacketed portion having strength components and method for making are disclosed. The subunit cable has the optical fiber and a plurality of tensile yarns disposed within a subunit jacket. The hardened connector is attached to the optical fiber at a first end and strain-relieves at least some of the plurality of tensile yarns and the strength components. The cable assembly may also include a non-hardened connector on the second end of the optical fiber along with an optional pulling grip.
Suspension clamps for fiber optic cables having a preferential bend are disclosed. The suspension clamp includes a body having a clamping region with a first radius R1 adjacent to the clamping region and a second radius R2 adjacent to the first radius R1 where the first radius is greater than the second radius R2. In one embodiment, the suspension clamp is formed from an first (upper) portion having an attachment structure and a second (lower) portion where the body is generally symmetric about the clamping region.
Cable assemblies having a connector (100) with a stable fiber length within the connector and methods for making the same are disclosed. In one embodiment, a filling material (22) is disposed in the passage-way of a fiber optic cable (30) near a first end (26) where the connector is attached for inhibiting the optical fiber from movement adjacent to the first end of the cable. The filling material may be placed into fiber optic cable using any suitable method such as injecting into the end of the cable or forming a window in the cable and inserting the filling material into the window.
Fiber optic cables seal and/or strain relief members (26) and related assemblies and methods are disclosed. In one embodiment, an elongated member is provided that facilitates providing sealing and/or strain relief of a portion of multiple fiber optic cables (46) not enclosed within a common outer cable jacket or sheath when disposed through the opening of the fiber optic terminal (30). In one embodiment, the elongated member includes a sealing portion (86) configured to facilitate sealing of a fiber optic terminal opening (54) when the multiple fiber optic cables (46) are received in the sealing portion (86) and the elongated member is disposed through the opening (54) of the fiber optic terminal (30). In another embodiment, the elongated member includes a strain relief portion (68) on a second end configured to receive and provide strain relief to the multiple fiber optic cables (46) disposed inside the fiber optic terminal (30), when the elongated member is disposed through the fiber optic terminal opening (54).
G02B 6/44 - Structures mécaniques pour assurer la résistance à la traction et la protection externe des fibres, p.ex. câbles de transmission optique
67.
FERRULE RETAINERS HAVING ACCESS WINDOW(S) FOR ACCESSING AND/OR REFERENCING A FIBER OPTIC FERRULE, AND RELATED FIBER OPTIC CONNECTOR ASSEMBLIES, CONNECTORS, AND REFERENCING METHODS
Ferrule retainers for retaining and supporting fiber optic ferrules in an optical fiber connector are disclosed. In one embodiment, the ferrule retainers include one or more access windows for accessing an alignment feature(s) of the ferrule located inside the ferrule retainer when the ferrule is assembled in the ferrule retainer. In this manner, the alignment feature(s) of the ferrule is accessible for referencing, if desired, when processing (e.g., polishing) the optical fiber(s) disposed in the ferrule when the ferrule is assembled in the ferrule retainer. The access window(s) provided in the ferrule retainers allows fiber processing equipment to reference the alignment feature(s) of the ferrule when assembled in a ferrule retainer regardless of whether the fiber processing equipment also references the ferrule retainer to reference the ferrule. The embodiments disclosed herein also include related fiber optic connector assemblies, connectors, and referencing methods.
G02B 6/38 - Moyens de couplage mécaniques ayant des moyens d'assemblage fibre à fibre
68.
OPTICAL FIBER-BASED DISTRIBUTED RADIO FREQUENCY (RF) ANTENNA SYSTEMS SUPPORTING MULTIPLE-INPUT, MULTIPLE-OUTPUT (MIMO) CONFIGURATIONS, AND RELATED COMPONENTS AND METHODS
Optical fiber-based distributed antenna systems that support multiple-input, multiple-output (MIMO) antenna configurations and communications. Embodiments disclosed herein include optical fiber-based distributed antenna system that can be flexibly configured to support or not support MIMO communications configurations. In one embodiment, first and second MIMO communication paths are shared on the same optical fiber using frequency conversion to avoid interference issues, wherein the second communication path is provide to a remote extension unit to remote antenna unit. In another embodiment, the optical fiber-based distributed antenna systems may be configured to allow to provide MIMO communication configurations with existing components. Existing capacity of system components are employed to create second communication paths for MIMO configurations, thereby reducing overall capacity, but allowing avoidance of frequency conversion components and remote extension units.
Fiber optic cable mounting adapters and related fiber optic cable assemblies and methods for attaching an external mounting device to the fiber optic cable are disclosed. The fiber optic mounting adapters (12) can be configured to be secured to a portion of a fiber optic cable. The fiber optic mounting adapters can also be configured to be secured to external mounting devices compatible to be secured to fiber optic equipment, to secure the fiber optic mounting adapter, and in turn the fiber optic cable, to the fiber optic equipment. Securing a portion of a fiber optic cable can reduce or prevent bending strain from being propagated along the fiber optic cable. Undesired bending strain of a fiber optic cable can cause undesired optical attenuation. Bending strain can also risk damaging optical fibers, such as furcated legs, exposed from the end portion of the fiber optic cable.
Methods of preparing strength member pulling members in fiber optic cable furcations and related components, assemblies, and fiber optic cables are disclosed. To allow fiber optic cables to be pulled without damaging optical fiber(s) disposed therein, a strength member pulling loop is formed from a strength member disposed inside the fiber optic cable. A pulling cord can be disposed in the strength member pulling loop to pull the fiber optic cable. The pulling load applied to the pulling cord is translated to the strength member pulling loop, which is translated to the strength member disposed inside the fiber optic cable. In this manner, when the fiber optic cable is pulled, the pulling load is translated to the strength member disposed inside the fiber optic cable to prevent or avoid damaging the optical fiber(s) disposed inside the fiber optic cable.
Multi-port optical connection terminal assemblies, related terminals and methods are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, a multi-port optical connection terminal assembly may include an enclosure (68) including an internal cavity, an input orifice (89), and optical connection nodes (66). The multi-port optical connection terminal assembly may also include an optical splitter (92) comprising a body (94), an input optical fiber (96), and output optical fibers (98). At least a portion of the body of the optical splitter may be disposed outside the internal cavity of the enclosure. The input optical fiber of the optical splitter may be disposed outside the internal cavity of the enclosure, and the plurality of the output optical fibers of the optical splitter may be disposed inside the internal cavity. In this manner, the enclosure of the multi-port optical connection terminal assembly is not required to be sized to completely contain the optical splitter.
Fiber optic equipment assemblies employing non-U-width-sized hous¬ ings supporting U-sized fiber optic modules, and related methods are disclosed. In one embodiment, the assembly may include the non-U- width-sized housing (58), at least one fiber optic equipment support member (68), and at least one U-sized fiber optic module (54). The non-U-width-sized housing may include an enclosure (60) forming an internal cavity (66). The at least one fiber optic equipment support member may be disposed within the internal cavity and configured to support at least one U-sized fiber optic module. The at least one U- sized fiber optic module may be disposed within the at least one fiber optic equipment support member (68) which may be disposed with¬ in the internal cavity. The at least one U-sized fiber optic module may have a height dimension wherein at least three of the at least one U- sized fiber optic module may be disposed within a U-unit height of unity.
An optical fiber mechanical splice connector system that couples with a field fiber includes a connector body comprising a ferrule receiving portion, a pellet receivingportion and a support portion between the ferrule receiving portion and pellet receiving portion. The pellet receiving portion includes one or more engagement fingers connected at a first end to the support portion and extending away from the ferrule receiving portion to a second, free end adjacent a pellet receiving opening of a pellet receiving cavity at the pellet receiving portion. A ferrule is connected to the connector body at the ferrule receiving portion. A stub fiber is captured within the ferrule. The stub fiber extends from the ferrule into a fiber receiving cavity provided within the connector body for connecting with the field fiber. A fiber carrying pellet carries the field fiber. Inserting the fiber carrying pellet through the pellet receiving opening resiliently deflects the one or more engagement fingers thereby enlarging the pellet receiving opening such that the fiber carrying pellet is received by the pellet receiving cavity of the connector body.
Multi-fiber, fiber optic cable assemblies and related fiber optic components, cables, and methods providing constrained optical fibers within an optical fiber sub-unit are disclosed. The optical fiber sub-unit(s) comprises optical fibers disposed adjacent a sub-unit strength member(s) within a sub-unit jacket. Movement of optical fibers within a sub-unit jacket can be constrained. In this manner, the optical fibers in an optical fiber sub-unit can be held together within the optical fiber sub-unit as a unit. As a non-limiting example, the optical fiber sub-unit(s) may be exposed and constrained in a furcation assembly as opposed to the optical fibers, thereby reducing complexity in fiber optic cable assembly preparations. Constraining the optical fibers may also allow optical skew, reduction of entanglement between the optical fibers and the cable strength members to reduce or avoid optical attenuation, and/or allow the optical fibers to act as anti-buckling components within the fiber optic cable.
An optical cable assembly comprises at least one optical waveguide (11), an electrically conductive layer (12) that surrounds the at least one optical waveguide, at least one strength member (14, 15, 16) disposed between the at least one optical fiber and the electrically conductive layer (12), and a sheath (13) that surrounds the electrically conductive layer. The assembly has a low cross-sectional diameter and is very flexible. The assembly can be used to transmit optical signals and electrical signals or electrical power at the same time to connect opto-electronic circuitry.
A cable (20) includes a channel (38) with an height/width aspect ratio of at least 1.5 that houses optical fibers (48, 50) therein so as to enable fiber translation during cable bending. The cable (20) includes first and second stranded conductors (40, 42) on opposing sides of the channel (38). The channel (38) is arranged with respect to the stranded conductors (40, 42) so that the fibers (40, 42) assume low strain positions in the channel (38) when the cable (20) is bent.
Molded fiber optic cable furcation assemblies, and related fiber optic components, assemblies, and methods are disclosed. In one embodiment, an end portion of a fiber optic cable with a portion of a cable jacket removed to expose optical fibers and/or a cable strength member(s) therein and thereafter placing the cable into a mold for creating a molded furcation plug about the end portion of the fiber optic cable. The furcation plug may be overmolded about the end portion of the fiber optic cable. The molded furcation plug can be used to pull a fiber optic cable without damaging the optical fiber(s) disposed within the fiber optic cable. The molded furcation plug is advantageous since it manufactured with fewer parts, without epoxy, and/or without a labor intensive process that may be difficult to automate.
G02B 6/00 - OPTIQUE ÉLÉMENTS, SYSTÈMES OU APPAREILS OPTIQUES - Détails de structure de dispositions comprenant des guides de lumière et d'autres éléments optiques, p.ex. des moyens de couplage
78.
CABLE ASSEMBLIES HAVING LABELS AND METHODS FOR MAKING THE SAME
Cable assemblies having a connector, a cable and a label along with methods for making the same are disclosed. The label (120) is attached to the cable assembly near the connector (100) and wraps about a portion of the cable (112) in the stored position and is extendable from the cable in an elongated position. Consequently, the label provides the craft with a suitable length for marking information, but the label moves to convenient storage position when not in use.
Mounting devices for optical devices, and related sub-assemblies, apparatuses, and methods are disclosed. The mounting devices may be employed to secure optical devices that are configured to convert optical signals to electrical signals, or electrical signals to optical signals. The mounting devices may be configured to secure optical devices to an electronics board, such as a printed circuit board (PCB) as an example. To preserve signal integrity, the mounting devices may also be configured to align the optical devices with electrical lead connections on the electronics board. The mounting devices may also be configured to improve grounding of the optical devices to provide and improve radio frequency (RF) shielding to avoid degradation of signal-to-noise (S/N) ratios from RF interference from electronic devices on the electronics board and other nearby electronic devices.
A cable attachment assembly for sealing and retaining three flat cables entering a telecommunications closure provides a grommet having three radially arrayed passageways and a grommet washer having a flat portion and a raised portion for simultaneously maintaining compressive force to the grommet and mitigating creep of the grommet during thermal cycling.
A strain relief device for securing three radially arrayed flat cables coming into a closure includes a body having three armatures extending radially. Each armature includes at least two cantilevered segments extending from the at least one armature in opposing directions. At least one cable may be received in a receiving area partially defined by the armature and the cantilevered segment. Compressive force acting on the strain relief device secures the cables in the receiving area relative to the strain relief device.
Transformable cable reels (22, 92), related assemblies and methods are disclosed. The transformable cable reels may be provided in a first reel configuration for spooling on cable to the transformable cable reel and to pay out the spooled cable from the transformable cable reel. Cable spooled on the transformable cable reel may be payed out during cable installations. The transformable cable reel may also be configured in a second reel configuration for storage of any excess cable after cable payout. As one non-limiting example, the volume of the cable reel may be less in the second reel configuration than in the first reel configuration so that less volume is required to store the transformable cable reel. Providing the transformable cable reel in the second reel configuration may make it more feasible to store the transformable cable reel in fiber optic equipment, and/or avoid storing excess cable removed from a cable reel.
B65H 75/24 - Noyaux, gabarits, supports ou pièces de tenue pour matériau bobiné, enroulé ou plié, p.ex. tourets, broches, bobines, tubes à cannette, boîtes - Détails de structure de forme réglable, p.ex. expansibles
83.
ATTACHMENT MECHANISMS EMPLOYED TO ATTACH A REAR HOUSING SECTION TO A FIBER OPTIC HOUSING, AND RELATED ASSEMBLIES AND METHODS
An optical equipment assembly comprising an extension structure for a fiber optic housing is disclosed. An attachment mechanism extends from the extension structure and is adapted to removably attach the extension structure to the fiber optic housing. The attachment mechanism comprises a flange having a spring plunger extending there through and fasteners holes for receiving fasteners. The attachment mechanism inserts inside a side wall of the housing. The spring plunger releasably maintains the extension structure in a position to allow fasteners to removably attach the extension structure to the housing. The housing maintains an installed U, or vertical, rack space the housing occupied prior to the extension structure being removably attached to the housing.
Fiber optic bundles include helically stranded subunit cables. The assemblies have small cross sections and low bend radii while maintaining acceptable attenuation losses. Binders can be omitted to improve ease of processing and installation. Helically stranding of the subunit cables allows ease of access to the individual cables during installation.
Embodiments disclosed herein include systems and method directed to fiber assemblies having a tray feature (306). One embodiment of a fiber assembly includes a fiber supporting matrix (302) that includes a base side and a fiber supporting side that opposes the base side. The fiber supporting matrix (302) may have a length and a width. Additionally, the first number of fiber positions may extend along the length of the fiber supporting matrix (302). The fiber assembly may also include a second number of secured fibers (304a - 304d, 304i - 3041) that are secured in a corresponding number of fiber positions, where the second number of secured fibers (304a - 304d, 304i - 3041) is less than the first number of fiber positions. The fiber assembly may additionally include a tray region (306) on the fiber supporting matrix for receiving installed fibers that are intended for data transmission.
A system, and related methods and devices, is disclosed for increasing an output power of a frequency band in a distributed antenna system that includes at least one RXU module that is operatively coupled to at least one RAU module. A first group of the plurality of channels within a first frequency band may be allocated to the RAU module, and a second group of the plurality of the channels within the first frequency band may be allocated to the RXU module. The at least one RAU module may be configured to receive RF signals from the first group of the plurality of channels being used in the first frequency band, and the at least one RXU module may be configured to receive RF signals from the second group of the plurality of channels being used in the first frequency band. In this manner, the amount of composite power per channel is increased.
Components, systems, and methods for determining propagation delay of communications in distributed antenna systems are disclosed. The propagation delay of communications signals distributed in the distributed antenna systems is determined. If desired, the propagation delay(s) can be determined on a per remote antenna unit basis for the distributed antenna systems. The propagation delay(s) can provided by the distributed antenna systems to a network or other system to be taken into consideration for communications services or operations that are based on communications signal delay. As another non-limiting example, propagation delay can be determined and controlled for each remote antenna unit to be uniquely distinguish the remote antenna units. In this manner, the location of a client device communicating with a remote antenna unit can be determined within the communication range of the remote antenna unit.
A bladeless stripping device includes a body having a cutting zone across the body forming a living hinge to fold the body along a fold area. An aperture may be located through the body and may be associated with the fold area. The aperture may change dimension as the body is folded and unfolded. The fiber aperture may receive for example an optical fiber in an unfolded state and may close upon for example the optical fiber in a folded state such that, when the bladeless stripping device is translated along for example the optical fiber at least one coating of for example the optical fiber is caused to be stripped away, revealing for example a bare glass fiber suitable, for example, for connectorizing or splicing.
H02G 1/12 - Méthodes ou appareils spécialement adaptés à l'installation, entretien, réparation, ou démontage des câbles ou lignes électriques pour supprimer l'isolant ou l'armature des câbles, p.ex. de leur extrémité
A fiber optic adapter mount is disclosed. The fiber optic adapter mount has receiving area for receiving an adapter ( 10 ), a retention feature ( 412, 414 ) and a mounting feature. The retention feature is configured to releasably retain the adapter in the receiving area. The mounting feature is for mounti the adapter mount to a surface.
G02B 6/38 - Moyens de couplage mécaniques ayant des moyens d'assemblage fibre à fibre
90.
PROVIDING DIGITAL DATA SERVICES AS ELECTRICAL SIGNALS AND RADIO-FREQUENCY (RF) COMMUNICATIONS OVER OPTICAL FIBER IN DISTRIBUTED COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEMS, AND RELATED COMPONENTS AND METHODS
Distributed antenna systems providing and supporting radio frequency (RF) communication services and digital data services, and related components and methods are disclosed. The RF communication services can be distributed over optical fiber to client devices, such as remote antenna units for example. Power can also be distributed over electrical medium that is provided to distribute digital data services, if desired, to provide power to remote communications devices and/or client devices coupled to the remote communications devices for operation. In this manner, as an example, the same electrical medium used to transport digital data signals in the distributed antenna system can also be employed to provide power to the remote communications devices and/or client devices coupled to the remote communications devices. Power may be injected and switched from two or more power sources over selected electrical medium to distribute power for power-consuming components supporting RF communications services and digital data services.
H04W 88/12 - Dispositifs contrôleurs de points d'accès
91.
DENSE FIBER OPTIC CONNECTOR ASSEMBLIES AND RELATED CONNECTORS AND CABLES SUITABLE FOR ESTABLISHING OPTICAL CONNECTIONS FOR OPTICAL BACKPLANES IN EQUIPMENT RACKS
Dense fiber optic connector assemblies and related connectors and cables suitable for establishing optical connections for optical backplanes in equipment racks are disclosed. In one embodiment, a fiber optic connector is provided. The fiber optic connector is configured to be directly optically connected in an optical backplane. The fiber optic connector is comprised of at least one fiber optic connector body (58), at least one fiber optic ferrule (60) in the at least one fiber optic connector body. The fiber optic ferrule is configured to support a fiber count and to optically align fiber openings with lenses (70) disposed on the fiber optic connector body. The dense fiber optic connectors may be optical backplane fiber optic connectors or blade fiber optic connectors.
Dense shuttered fiber optic connectors and assemblies suitable for establishing optical connections for optical backplanes in equipment racks are disclosed. In one embodiment, a fiber optic connector assembly is provided. The fiber optic connector assembly comprises a fiber optic connector. The fiber optic connector assembly also comprises a slideable shutter disposed in the fiber optic connector. The slideable shutter has an opening(s) configured to be aligned with a plurality of lenses disposed in the fiber optic connector in an open position, and configured to block access to the plurality of lenses disposed in the fiber optic connector in a closed position. The fiber optic connector assembly also comprises an actuation member coupled to the slideable shutter configured to move the slideable shutter from the closed position to the open position.
G02B 6/38 - Moyens de couplage mécaniques ayant des moyens d'assemblage fibre à fibre
93.
OPTICAL BACKPLANE EXTENSION MODULES, AND RELATED ASSEMBLIES SUITABLE FOR ESTABLISHING OPTICAL CONNECTIONS TO INFORMATION PROCESSING MODULES DISPOSED IN EQUIPMENT RACKS
Optical backplane extension modules (28) and related assemblies suitable for establishing optical connections to information processing modules (24) disposed in equipment racks are disclosed. In one embodiment, an optical backplane extension module is provided. The optical backplane extension module comprises an extension module housing (35) comprising an interior space (34) defined by a base, a left side disposed on a left end of the base, a right side disposed on a right end of the base opposite the left end, and a rear side disposed on a rear end of the base. A plurality of backplane fiber optic connectors (36) are disposed through the rear side of the extension module housing and accessible through an exterior side of the rear side. The plurality of backplane fiber optic connectors (36) configured to be directly optically connected to a plurality of blade fiber optic connectors (46) disposed in a plurality of information processing modules disposed in a rack module housing.
A fiber optic drop cable assembly (10), including: a fiber optic cable (12) including one or more strength members (16) and one or more optic fibers (14) and a fiber optic connector (22) mounted to the one or more optic fibers (14). A demarcation section (26) is positioned behind the fiber optic connector (22) and is operable to separate the fiber optic connector (22) from strength member forces from the one or more strength members (16) of the fiber optic cable (12). The demarcation section (26) includes a protective tube (28) around the one or more optic fibers (14) and a fiber lock down arrangement (34,38) for inhibiting one or more optical fibers (14) from being pulled from the fiber optic connector (22) exerted via the fiber optic cable (12).
Optical couplings for making and optical connection between one or more devices are disclosed. In one embodiment, an optical coupling includes a coupling face, an optical interface within the coupling face, an optical component positioned within the optical interface, and at least one coded magnetic array. The at least one coded magnetic array may include a plurality of magnetic regions configured aid in mating the optical component with a corresponding optical component of a complementary mated optical coupling to a predetermined tolerance for optical communication. Optical cable assemblies and electronics devices having optical couplings with optical interfaces using coded magnetic arrays are also disclosed.
Active optical cable assemblies, and systems, methods, and adapter modules and integrated circuits for facilitating communication between a host and a client device over a fiber optic cable are disclosed. In one embodiment, an active optical cable assembly includes a fiber optic cable having at least one optical fiber, a host active circuit, a client active circuit, a host connector, and a client connector. Upon a connection between the host active circuit and a host device, the client termination switch closes to couple the client termination impedance to the ground reference potential. Upon a connection between the client active circuit and a client device, the host termination switch closes to the couple the host termination impedance to the ground reference potential. In another embodiment, a method includes enabling a host termination impedance upon a connection of an active optical cable to a client device.
Active optical cable assemblies, and systems, methods, and adapter modules and integrated circuits for facilitating communication between a host and a client device over a fiber optic cable are disclosed. In one embodiment, an active optical cable assembly includes a fiber optic cable having at least one optical fiber, a host active circuit, a client active circuit, a host connector, and a client connector. Upon a connection between the host active circuit and a host device, the client termination switch closes to couple the client termination impedance to the ground reference potential. Upon a connection between the client active circuit and a client device, the host termination switch closes to the couple the host termination impedance to the ground reference potential. In another embodiment, a method includes enabling a host termination impedance upon a connection of an active optical cable to a client device.
Ferrule assemblies having at least one coded magnetic array are disclosed. In one embodiment, a ferrule assembly includes a ferrule body having a coupling surface and a coded magnetic array having a plurality of magnetic regions. The coded magnetic array may be located within the coupling surface. The ferrule assembly further includes a lens component located within the ferrule body. The lens component may have a facet at the coupling surface of the ferrule body at a predetermined angle. In another embodiment, a translating ferrule assembly includes an optical interface and a coded magnetic array, and is configured to translate within a connector housing of an optical connector when coupled to an electronics device. Optical couplings having a coded magnetic array and sockets for receiving a connector are also disclosed.
A fiber optic apparatus including a retainer assembly having at least one retainer configured to toollessly, releasably retain a fiber body and or one or more optical fibers is disclosed. An attachment feature may toollesslly, removably attach the retainer assembly to a mounting surface. The at least one retainer is configured to releasably retain the fiber body via mounting bosses on the fiber body. A stacking feature may be configured to removably attach a second retainer assembly to the retainer assembly. The at least one retainer may be configured to releasably retain the one or more optical fibers to strain relief the one of more optical fibers. The mounting surface may be fiber optic equipment. The fiber optic equipment may be a shelf mounted to a chassis in a fiber optic equipment rack.
Field-installable mechanical splice connectors for making optical and/or electrical connections in the field are disclosed. One embodiment is a hybrid mechanical splice connector having an electrical portion and an optical portion that includes at least one electrical contact, a shell, and at least one body for receiving at least one field optical fiber and securing the electrical contact. The connector includes a mechanical retention component for securing at least one optical field fiber to the at least one body. Another embodiment is directed to a mechanical splice connector having at least one body for receiving at least one field optical fiber, a mechanical retention component for securing at least one optical field fiber to the at least one body, and at least one lens attached to the at least one body.
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