US20090034918A1

Movatterモバイル変換

Info

Publication number: US20090034918A1
Application number: US11/888,182
Authority: US
Inventors: William Eric Caldwell; Richard S. Wagman; Kenneth D. Temple, Jr.
Original assignee: Corning Optical Communications LLC
Current assignee: Corning Research and Development Corp
Priority date: 2007-07-31
Filing date: 2007-07-31
Publication date: 2009-02-05
Also published as: US20090274425A1; US8175433B2

Abstract

A fiber optic cable including at least one optical fiber disposed within a cavity of a cable jacket and methods for manufacturing the same are disclosed. The cavity has a first cavity cross-sectional area and a second cavity cross-sectional area located at different longitudinal locations along the cable, where the first cavity cross-sectional area is greater than the second cavity cross-sectional area. The region of the second cavity cross-sectional area of the cable provides and/or increases the coupling level of the at least one optical fiber to the cable jacket. In further embodiments, the fiber optic cable is a dry cable having one or more dry insert within the cavity for cushioning and/or optionally providing water-blocking for the cable.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to fiber optic cables and assemblies that are useful for routing optical fibers toward the subscriber and/or other suitable cables/assemblies in an optical network. Specifically, the fiber optic cables and assemblies of the present invention have one or more features for providing and/or tailoring the level of coupling for the optical fibers, optical fiber ribbons, or the like.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Communication networks are used to transport a variety of signals such as voice, video, data transmission, and the like. Traditional communication networks use copper wires in cables for transporting information and data. However, copper cables have drawbacks because they are large, heavy, and can only transmit a relatively limited amount of data with a reasonable cable diameter. Consequently, optical waveguide cables replaced most of the copper cables in long-haul communication network links, thereby providing greater bandwidth capacity for long-haul links. However, most communication networks still use copper cables for distribution and/or drop links on the subscriber side of the central office. In other words, subscribers have a limited amount of available bandwidth due to the constraints of copper cables in the communication network. Stated another way, the copper cables are a bottleneck that inhibit the subscriber from utilizing the relatively high-bandwidth capacity of the optical fiber long-haul links.

Fiber optic cables used for distribution or drop links should have the necessary characteristics for the application. For instance, the fiber optic cable designs should provide water-blocking, cushion the optical fibers, couple the optical fibers to the buffer tube or cable jacket, and allow movement of the optical fibers during bending, installation, or the like However, not all fiber optic cable designs provided all of these characteristics and instead rely on installation procedures to achieve the desired characteristics.

For instance, some fiber optic cable designs can require special installation procedures such as coiling the cable at specified intervals for providing coupling to the optical fibers. Using installation procedures to achieve the desired characteristics can be problematic and/or add complexity and expense. By way of example, the fiber optic cable can be installed improperly and fail to provide the proper level of coupling. Additionally, the coiling of the cable requires extra cable length within the optical network. If the fiber optic cable is used as a distribution cable, coiling of the cable can interfere with intended node locations (e.g., distribution locations) along the length of the cable.

Thus, there has been a long-felt need for fiber optic cable designs that provide all of the required performance characteristics along with quick and easy access and deployment without requiring special installation techniques. Moreover, the reliability and robustness of the fiber optic cables and the interconnection therebetween must withstand the rigors of an outdoor environment.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

To achieve these and other advantages and in accordance with the purpose of the invention as embodied and broadly described herein, the invention is directed to fiber optic cables that have one or more features for providing and/or tailoring the level of coupling for the optical fibers, optical fiber ribbons, or the like and methods for making the same.

Another aspect the invention is directed to a fiber optic cable having at least one optical fiber and a dry insert disposed within a cavity of a cable jacket where the dry insert changes thickness along its longitudinal length for providing and/or tailoring coupling. Specifically, the dry insert has a first thickness at a first longitudinal location and a second thickness at a second longitudinal location where the first thickness is greater for the second thickness, thereby creating a thickness variation along the longitudinal length of the at least one dry insert. By way of example, the dry insert has a dry insert thickness ratio defined as the second thickness divided by the first thickness, where the dry insert thickness ratio is between about 50% and about 90%. Additionally, the present invention is directed to methods for making fiber optic cables where the dry insert changes thickness along it longitudinal length.

It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description present exemplary and explanatory embodiments of the invention, and are intended to provide an overview or framework for understanding the nature and character of the invention as it is claimed. The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the invention, and are incorporated into and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate various exemplary embodiments of the invention, and together with the description, serve to explain the principles and operations of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a plan view showing the location of cross-sectional planes of an explanatory fiber optic cable according to the present invention.

FIGS. 2A and 2B depict respective cross-sectional views at the cross-sectional planes ofFIG. 1 for an explanatory dry fiber optic cable.

FIGS. 3A-3D depict respective cross-sectional views of explanatory dry inserts for use with the concepts of the present invention.

FIGS. 4A and 4B depict respective cross-sectional views at the sectional planes ofFIG. 1 for another explanatory dry fiber optic cable according to the present invention.

FIGS. 5A and 5B depict respective cross-sectional views at the sectional planes ofFIG. 1 for still another explanatory dry fiber optic cable according to the present invention.

FIGS. 6A and 6B depict respective cross-sectional views at the sectional planes ofFIG. 1 for a toneable fiber optic cable according to the present invention.

FIGS. 7A and 7B depict respective cross-sectional views at the sectional planes for a fiber optic cable having armor according to the present invention.

FIGS. 8A and 8B depict respective cross-sectional views at the sectional planes for a fiber optic cable having armor according to the present invention.

FIGS. 9A and 9B depict respective cross-sectional views at the sectional planes for a round fiber optic cable according to the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a side view of a generic dry insert having a change in thickness along a longitudinal direction according to the concepts of the present invention.

FIGS. 11A and 11B are respective cross-sectional views showing an explanatory fiber optic cable using the dry insert ofFIG. 10 according to the present invention.

FIG. 12 schematically depicts an explanatory manufacturing line for making fiber optic cables according to the present invention.

FIGS. 13A and 13B schematically depicts concepts for changing a cross-sectional area of the cavity according to the present invention.

FIGS. 14A and 14B schematically depict another method for changing a cross-sectional area of the cavity according to the present invention.

FIG. 15 depicts a perspective view of a fiber optic cable assembly that includes a fiber optic cable along with a tether cable that is preconnectorized with a hardened connector according to the present invention.

FIG. 16 depicts another perspective view of a fiber optic cable assembly that includes a fiber optic cable along with a tether cable having a multiport according to the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

Reference will now be made in detail to exemplary embodiments of the invention, examples of which are described herein and shown in the accompanying drawings. Whenever practical, the same reference numerals are used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or similar parts or features.FIG. 1 depicts an explanatory fiber optic cable10 (hereinafter cable10) according to the present invention that can be configured for use as a drop cable, a distribution cable, or other suitable portions of an optical network. Generally speaking, a distribution cable will have a relatively high optical fiber count such twelve or more optical fibers for further distribution to the optical network. On the other hand, a drop cable will have a relatively low optical count such as up to four optical fibers for routing towards a subscriber or a business, but drop cables may include higher fiber counts. As depicted, the portion ofcable10 shown includes an A-region disposed between a first B-region and a second B-region along its longitudinal length as noted by the brackets. Cables of the invention have A-regions and B-regions that provide different levels of coupling of the optical fiber to the cable jacket or tube, thereby advantageously allowing tailoring of the coupling level for the optical fiber(s). Specifically, the cable design tailors the desired level of coupling by using a cross-sectional restriction of a cavity for the cable jacket/tube and/or using a cable component such as a dry insert with a thickened portion. Moreover, the concepts of the invention may also be advantageous since the B-region also provides a necked down area and/or cable component filled area where inhibiting the migration of water along the cable is easier. Explanatory cross-sectional views of the different regions ofexplanatory cable10 are taken at cross-sectional planes A-A and B-B as shown byFIG. 1 and represent the respective A-region and B-region for each cable.

FIGS. 2aand2bdepict respective cable cross-sections for an explanatorydry cable10 respectively taken along cross-sectional planes A-A and B-B ofFIG. 1. As shown,cable10 includes at least one optical fiber (not visible) that is a portion of an optical fiber ribbon13 (represented by the horizontal line), a firstdry insert22, a seconddry insert23, at least onestrength member24, and acable jacket28 having acavity28a. Generally speaking,cable10 shown inFIGS. 2aand2bhas a generally flat profile, but other cable designs can have other profiles such as round or the like. In other words,cable jacket28 has two major surfaces (not numbered) that are generally flat and are connected by arcuate end surfaces (not numbered) as shown, thereby resulting in a cable having a relatively small cross-sectional footprint. Generally speaking,cavity28aofcable jacket28 has a generally rectangular shape for carrying one or more fiber optic ribbons in a non-stranded configuration. Simply stated,optical fiber ribbon13 is disposed between firstdry insert22 and second dry insert that have a compressible layer, thereby providing cushioning, coupling, and optionally water-blocking. As shown, this cable also has

strength members

24,24 disposed on opposing sides ofcavity20, thereby imparting a preferential bend characteristic to the cable that is generally aligned with the preferential bend characteristic of the ribbon. By way of example,

strength members

24,24 are preferably a dielectric material such as glass-reinforced plastic (GRP) having a diameter such as about 2.3 millimeters, thereby allowing an all dielectric cable design; however, other strength member material, sizes, and/or shapes are possible. For instance, strength members can use a conductive material such as steel, copper-clad steel, or the like and/or they may have shapes other than round such as the oval.

Cavity

Simply stated, the B-region allows tailoring of the coupling by providing and/or increasing the compression of thedry inserts22,23 (i.e., the B-region may provide all of the coupling or a substantial fraction thereof). Compression of dry insert(s) is actually a localized maximum compression of the dry insert(s) that occurs where the ribbons undulate into the same due to the excess ribbon length (ERL) of the optical fiber ribbon13 (i.e., the ribbons are longer than the cavity for the length of the cable). In other words, the compression of the dry inserts creates a normal force on the ribbon(s), thereby helping maintain the longitudinal position of the optical fibers/ribbons during normal cable operating conditions. Further,cable10 can have a plurality of B-regions disposed along its longitudinal length with predetermined spacing and/or lengths (i.e., intermittently disposed along the length of the cable) for the B-region to tailor to a desired level of coupling. For instance, the cable can have a plurality of B-regions having a longitudinal length of between about 1-10 centimeters disposed between A-regions having a longitudinal length of between about 300-10,000 centimeters, but other suitable region lengths and/or patterns are possible. Using a relatively short length for the B-region tends to force a node at that location for the undulating optical fibers, while still allowing the optical fibers the necessary freedom to move.

Optical fiber ribbons

13 used in the cables of the present invention can have any suitable design or ribbon count as known in the art or developed hereafter. For instance,optical fiber ribbons13 can have any suitable subunit construction, a common matrix construction, geometry, stress concentrators, different fiber counts, and/or the like. Subunits allow predetermined splitting of the optical fiber ribbons into predictable smaller fiber count units, preferably without the use of special tools. By way of example,fiber optic ribbon13 is a twenty-four fiber ribbon having two twelve-fiber units each having three subunits with four optical fibers. Of course, other suitable twenty-four fiber ribbon configurations are possible such as two twelve fiber units, three eight fiber units, four six fiber units, or six four fiber units depending on the requirements of the network architecture.

Optical fibers preferably have an excess fiber length (EFL) compared with a length ofcavity28a; however, in some instances the EFL may also be slightly negative. Likewise, ribbons can have an excess ribbon length (ERL) with respect to the length of the cavity. Besides inhibiting the application of strain to the optical fibers, EFL or ERL can aid in coupling the optical fibers or ribbons with the cable jacket or tube. By way of example, the ERL is preferably in the range of about 0.1 percent to about 1.2 percent, and more preferably in the range of about 0.3 percent to about 1.0 percent, and most preferably in the range of about 0.5 percent to about 0.8 percent, thereby inhibiting the application of strain, allowing bending of the fiber optic cable without causing elevated levels of optical attenuation, and/or suitable low temperature performance. Additionally, the amount of ERL may depend on specific cable design such as the number of ribbons within the cavity, the cavity size, cavity shape, intended application, and/or other parameters.

As depicted inFIG. 2B, coupling foroptical fiber ribbon13 is provided in the B-region by the compression of

dry inserts

22,23 onoptical fiber ribbon13 due to the smaller cavity height CH2. No matter the construction and/or materials of the dry insert(s) or the like, the cable design should provide the desired level of coupling for the optical fibers to the cable jacket or tube. Additionally, in order to quantify the level of coupling for the optical fibers a relatively long length of cable is required. By way of example, optical fibers of cables according to the present invention have a coupling force of at least about 0.1625 Newtons per optical fiber for a thirty-meter length of fiber optic cable. Illustratively, a fiber optic cable having a single ribbon with twelve optical fibers in the ribbon should have a minimum coupling force of about 1.95 Newtons for a thirty-meter length of fiber optic cable. Likewise, a similar fiber optical cable having a single optical fiber ribbon with six optical fibers should have a minimum coupling force of about 0.975 Newtons for a thirty-meter length of fiber optic cable. Measurement of the coupling force is accomplished by taking a thirty-meter fiber optic cable sample and pulling on a first end of the optical fibers (or fiber optic ribbon(s)) and measuring the force required to cause movement of the second end of the optical fiber(s) (or fiber optic ribbon(s)). In other words, the EFL (or ERL) must be straightened so that the coupling force is the amount of force required to move the entire length of optical fibers within the thirty-meter fiber optic cable sample.

Dry inserts can be any suitable material, materials and/or structure such as one or more elongate tapes such as a foam tape disposed within the cavity for coupling the ribbons with the cable jacket or tube. Optionally, dry inserts can also include a water-blocking characteristic for blocking the migration of water along the cable. As depicted inFIGS. 2A and 2B,

dry inserts

22,23 are disposed on both the top and bottom ofribbon13. In other words, the components form a elongate tape/ribbon sandwich with the first elongate tape disposed on a first planar side of the ribbon (or ribbon stack) and the second elongate tape being disposed on a the second major side of the ribbon (or ribbon stack) within the generally rectangular cavity. Stated another way, planar surface(s) of the ribbon generally faces the planar surface of the dry inserts and the planar surface of the same is also generally aligned with the major dimension of the cavity so that all of the major planar surfaces of the components are generally aligned within the generally rectangular cavity as depicted. Of course, other embodiments may have one or more dry inserts wrapped about the optical fibers or disposed on one or more sides thereof. In this cable,

dry inserts

22,23 ofFIG. 2A are elongate tapes formed from an open cell foam such as a polyurethane material; however, other suitable foam materials for coupling and cushioning of the ribbons are possible such as polyethylene, polypropylene, EVA.

Additionally, one or more dry inserts can include an optional water-swellable layer (represented by the solid hatching of the dry insert and not numbered) for inhibiting the migration of water within the cable. For instance, a foam layer and a water-swellable layer are laminated together, thereby forming a composite elongate tape (i.e., a water-swellable foam tape). In other embodiments, the compressible layer and the optional water-swellable layer are discrete individual components that are unattached (i.e., a separate compressible layer and water-swellable component such as being a water-swellable yarn or thread). Generally speaking, dry inserts used herein are multi-functional. For instance, besides aiding the coupling the optical fibers, ribbons, modules, or the like to the cable jacket, they may optionally inhibit the migration of water, as well as cushion the optical fibers during bending of the cable. Although the dry inserts are shown having a width smaller than the cavity, the dry inserts may have a width that is greater than the cavity. Additionally, dry inserts can have other constructions besides an elongate foam tape and the optional water-swellable layer can have any suitable material(s)/construction(s).

Illustratively,FIG. 3adepicts one example of anotherdry insert22′.Dry insert22′ includes a compressible layer formed from a plurality ofmicrospheres22b′ disposed between atop tape22a′ andbottom tape22a′. As with other tapes used for the dry insert,tapes22a′ can be formed from any suitable material such as a non-woven material, a polyester film like Mylar, or other like materials. More specifically,microspheres22b′ are generally disposed betweentapes22a′ and are attached using a suitable method such as an adhesive, binding agent, application of heat and/or pressure, or the like. Additionally, an optional water-swellable substance such as a plurality of water-swellable particles, a plurality of water-swellable fiber, or a water-swellable coating22c′ may also be disposed betweentapes22a′ withmicrospheres22b′ or on a portion one ormore tapes22a′. Suitable materials formicrospheres22b′ are relatively soft so they are compressible and sized so that they will not cause undue levels of optical attenuation if they press against the optical fiber or ribbon. By way of example, suitable hollow microspheres are available from Akzo Nobel of the Netherlands under the tradename EXPANCEL and includes copolymers of monomers vinylidene chloride, acrylonitrile, and methylmethacrylate. Other plastic hollow microspheres are available from Asia Pacific Microspheres of Malaysia under the tradename of PHENOSET, which are phenolic and amino-based microspheres.

The compressible nature of hollow polymeric microspheres is suited for providing adequate coupling of the optical fibers to the tube or cable jacket. Additionally, the smooth round surface of these microspheres permits pressing against the optical fibers without inducing elevated levels of optical attenuation such as during bending, twisting, or crushing of the cable. Additionally, the size of the hollow microspheres can vary from about 1 micron to about 300 microns, likewise, a wall thickness of the microspheres can also vary from about 0.1 micron up to several microns, but other suitable dimensions are possible as long as a suitable level of optical performance is maintained.

FIG. 3bdepicts another example of adry insert22″ that provides acompressible layer22b″ using the geometry of its shape. More specifically,compressible layer22b″ is provided by using a dimensional fabric that has a generally textured shape in one or more directions for providing the compressible layer. As shown,dry insert22″ has a generally textured shape TS and is formed from a suitably soft and flexible material so that it can deform for providing an adequate level of coupling for the optical fibers or ribbons without causing undue levels of optical attenuation. By way of example, suitable fabrics are available from Freudenberg of Durham, N.C. under the name of Novolon. The dimensional fabrics may be formed from a variety of materials such as polyester, polypropylene, nylon, or other suitable materials. Generally speaking, dimensional fabrics are formed using a molding process for transforming a two-dimensional (i.e., flat) fabric or substrate into a three-dimensional (i.e., textured shape) fabric or substrate with the desired textured shape TS. The coupling and/or compressibility ofdry insert22″ can be tailored by changing parameters such as the number of contact points per surface area (i.e., changing the density of high and low contact points), the height from a high point to a low point, the dimension fabric profile, and/or flexibility of the dimensional fabric. Again,dry insert22″ can include an optional water-swellable layer for blocking the migration of water along the cable or tube assembly. For instance, the water-swellable layer may be a coating applied to one or more surfaces or applied to the fibers of the dimensional fabric, include water-swellable particles disposed in or on the dry insert, and/or may include superabsorbent fibers. Suitable water-swellable filaments are, for example, LANSEAL materials available from Toyobo of Osaka, Japan or OASIS materials available from Technical Absorbents Ltd. of South Humberside, United Kingdom.

FIG. 3cdepicts a further embodiment of adry insert22′″ having acompressible layer22b′″ having a non-woven layer of felt substance made of one or more materials formed from non-continuous and/or continuous filaments.Dry insert22′″ may optionally include a water-swellable layer and/or one or more tapes for attaching the felt substance thereto. For instance,dry insert22′″ includes a plurality of water-swellable filaments22a′″ along withother filaments22b′″ that are non-swellable disposed between a plurality ofoptional tapes22c′″, thereby formingdry insert22′″, As used herein, “felt substance” means a material comprising one or more types of non-continuous or continuous filaments and/or fibers which have been caused to adhere and/or matt together through the action of heat, moisture, chemicals, pressure, or mechanical action such as needle-punching or spun-lacing, or a combination of the foregoing actions, thereby forming a relatively thick and compressible layer. Water-swellable filaments22a′″ may comprise any suitable water-swellable material. By way of example,dry insert22′″ ofFIG. 3cmay include about 25% or less by weight of water-swellable filaments22a′″ and about 75% or more by weight ofother filaments22b′″; however, other suitable ratios are possible.Other filaments22b′″ may include any suitable filament and/or fiber material such as polymer filaments like polypropylene, polyethylene, and polyesters, likewise, other suitable materials such as cottons, nylon, rayons, elastomers, fiberglass, aramids, polymers, rubber-based urethanes, composite materials and/or blends thereof may be included as a portion ofother filaments22b′″ and may be tailored for providing specific characteristics.

FIG. 3ddepicts yet anotherdry insert22″″ shaped as a generally flat tape having a compressible layer with a suitable width. By way of example,dry insert22″″ is made of a plurality of filaments such as a plurality of generally continuous polyester filaments grouped together by a matrix material, but the use of other filament materials is possible. An optional compressible layer is formed by, for instance, foaming the matrix material, thereby providing acompressible layer22b″″. In other embodiments, the matrix material is not foamed so it doesn't provide a compressible layer, but still provides the desired level of coupling using friction. Additionally the matrix material is used for attaching a plurality of water-swellable particles todry insert22″″ for forming a water-swellable layer22a″″. Suitable foamed matrix materials include vinyls, polyurethanes, polypropylenes, EVAs, or polyethylene blends. The plurality of filaments and the matrix material are run through a die that formsdry insert22″″ into its desired shape such as a generally flat ribbon-like profile. Dry inserts22″″ may be run parallel to the fiber ribbons in a sandwich configuration or have other configurations such as helically wrapped about the optical fibers or ribbon stack. Other similar constructions are possible using any suitable materials for providing the compressible layer and the water-swellable layer. Dry insert can include still other constructions and/or materials such as sponge-like materials for a compressible layer such as polyvinylalcohol (PVA).

Althoughcavity28ais depicted with a generally rectangular shape with a fixed orientation for housing the optical fiber ribbon, other shapes and arrangements are possible such as generally square, round, or oval. By way of example, cavity may be rotated or stranded in any suitable manner along its longitudinal length. The cavity can also have a partial oscillation through a given angle, for instance, the cavity can rotate between a clockwise angle that is less than a full rotation and then rotate counter-clockwise for less than a full rotation. Furthermore, one or more cavities may be offset towards one of the major surfaces, thereby allowing easy opening and access from one side. The cavity of a manufactured cable may have a slightly distorted (i.e., rounded or deformed) cross-section since it is difficult to maintain the sharp edges during manufacturing.

Cables according to the present invention may have any suitable dimensions, constructions, and/or fiber counts for the given application. By way of example, in distribution applications the width of the cable is preferably about 20 millimeters or less and the height of the cable is preferably about 12 millimeters or less. In drop applications, the width of the cable is preferably about 10 millimeters or less and the height of the cable is preferably about 5 millimeters or less. Of course, other cables of the present invention can have other sizes and/or structures for the given application depending on the requirements and fiber count of the cable. For instance, cables of the present invention may have larger dimensions for the major dimension, the minor dimension, and/or different structures such as a toneable portion as shown inFIGS. 6A and 6B for locating the cable in buried applications. Likewise, cable jackets and/or other cable components may be formed from a flame-retardant material and/or the cable can have a flame-retardant characteristic, thereby making it suitable for indoor applications such as multi-dwelling units (MDUs) or the like.

Besides being a dry cable design, the cable ofFIGS. 2A and 2B is also advantageous because it can be easily accessed from either of the generally planar sides of the cable, thereby allowing access to the desired optical fiber. In other words, ribbons from either side of the ribbon stack, i.e., top or bottom, can be accessed by opening the cable at the respective planar side. Consequently, the craftsman or automation process has simple and easy access to thecavity28aby running a utility blade or cutting tool along the length of the cable without cutting into strength members, thereby allowing entry to cavity while inhibiting damage to the optical fibers and/or strength members during the access procedure. In other words, the craftsman can simply cut into cable jacket by slicing the cable jacket and may use strength members as a guide for the blade or cutting tool, thereby exposing cavity during the cutting and allowing access to the at least one optical fiber therein. Thus, the optical fibers in the cables of the present invention may be easily, quickly, and repeatably accessed by a craftsman or likewise in an automated process. Additionally, the generally flat major surfaces of the cables are advantageous because they allow for a smaller cable footprint and uses less jacket material compared with round cables. Although the cable depicted inFIGS. 2A and 2B is a generally flat dry cable design having the fiber optic ribbon disposed between two dry inserts having a foam tape with a laminated water-swellable tape, the concepts of the invention are possible with other cable configurations.

FIGS. 4A and 4B depict anothercable10 that is similar to the cable ofFIGS. 2A and 2B, but only includes a singledry insert42 withincavity28aofcable jacket28. As shown, inFIG. 4A,dry insert42 andoptical fiber ribbon13 are, generally speaking loosely disposed withincavity28awithin the A-region, thus there is little to no coupling provided by this region (i.e., there is a vertical free space within the cavity). On the other hand, the B-region depicted byFIG. 4B provides the coupling sincedry insert42 is compressed withincavity28afor providing a predetermined level of coupling. Dry insert can be compressed within the cavity to provide coupling using one or more methods. For instance, one method for compressing thedry insert42 is by reducing the height ofcavity28a, thereby providing the desired degree of coupling.Dry insert42 provides another method for providing coupling by using a thickness variation along the longitudinal length ofdry insert42. For instance,FIG. 10 is a side view ofdry insert42 showing a thickness that varies along its longitudinal length. Simply stated,dry insert42 has a portion with a first thickness T1 and a portion with a second thickness T2 where the first thickness T1 is greater than the second thickness T2. The portion ofdry insert42 that has first thickness T1 forms a portion of the B-region of the cable since the dry insert thickness is compressed when disposed within the cavity48awith theoptical fiber ribbon13. By way of example,dry insert42 can have a dry insert thickness ratio defined as the second thickness T2 divided by the first thickness T1 with the dry insert thickness ratio (T2/T1) being between about 50% and 90%. By way of a numerical illustration, a nominal first thickness for the A-region ofdry insert42 is about 3.5 millimeters and a nominal second thickness for the B-region ofdry insert42 is about 4.5 millimeters, thereby yielding a dry insert thickness ratio of about 77%. Moreover, the thickened portion ofdry insert42 can have any suitable length and/or period along the length of same. Also, likedry insert22,dry insert42 can be formed from any suitable material, construction, or the like.

FIGS. 5A and 5B depict another cable that is similar to the cable ofFIGS. 2A and 2B, but it depicts a plurality ofdry inserts22′ disposed within acavity28aofcable jacket28 along with atoneable lobe58bthat is useful for locating the cable in buried applications while still allowing for a dielectricmain cable body58a. As shown, the cable has fourdry inserts22′ disposed withincavity28ato cushion, couple and provide water-blocking. Specifically,dry inserts22′ are generally disposed to sandwich optical fiber ribbon therebetween, but thedry inserts22′ may migrate withincavity28ato other positions.FIG. 5B shows a cross-sectional view ofcavity58abeing constricted at the B-region. Additionally, other suitable inserts may be used with this cable or any other cable.

Toneable lobe

58bincludes aconductive wire55 disposed withintoneable lobe58b. By way of example,conductive wire55 is a 24-gauge copper wire that allows the craftsman to apply a toning signal thereto for locating the cable so it can be located or have its location marked to prevent inadvertent damage. A cable jacket58 and jacket portion oftoneable lobe58bare typically co-extruded simultaneously using the same extrusion tooling. As shown,toneable lobe58bis connected with cable jacket58 of themain cable body58aby a frangible web (not numbered) so thattoneable lobe58bcan easily be separated frommain cable body58afor connectorization or other purposes. Specifically, the web oftoneable lobe58bcan include a preferential tear portion (not visible) using suitable geometry for controlling the location of the tear between thetoneable lobe58band themain cable body58a.Toneable lobe58bpreferably tears away from the main cable body cleanly so that it does not leave a ridge thereon, thereby allowing for a profile that permits easy sealing with a connector boot or the like. Using toneable lobe58ais advantageous because if the cable is struck by lightning thetoneable lobe58awould be damaged, but themain cable body58awould not be significantly damaged since it is dielectric. Consequently, the cable is toneable without requiring the labor and hardware necessary for grounding the cable. Of course, other cables of the present invention may also include a toneable lobe.

FIGS. 6A and 6B depict anothercable10 that is similar to the cable ofFIGS. 2A and 2B, but it uses a slightly different jacket shape to improve side crush performance. Additionally, the

dry inserts

22,23 of this embodiment do not include a water-swellable characteristic, but instead the cable includes a small quantity of water-swellable powder (not visible) disposed within acavity28afor inhibiting the migration of water therein. This cable provides improved side crush performance sincecable jacket28 has an upper concave wall (not numbered) and a lower concave wall (not numbered) for improving side-crush strength for the cable. Concave walls mean that the wall has an outer surface that is generally concave with a generally uniform wall thickness (i.e., the inner surface of the wall is curved to match the outer surface.) In other words, the concave walls increase the cables resistance to side-crush loads and helps preserves optical performance during the same. Other cables of the present invention may also use this concept.

FIGS. 7A and 7B depict anothercable10 that is similar to the cable ofFIGS. 2A and 2B, but it further includes anarmor layer77 disposed between acable jacket28 and asecond jacket79.Armor layer77 provides rodent protection and/or additional crush strength for the cable. Specifically, the cable includes anoptical fiber ribbon13 disposed within acavity28aofcable jacket28.Strength members24 are attached tocable jacket28 and disposed on opposite side ofcavity28a.Armor layer77 is disposed aboutcable jacket28 and is shown with a butting seam, but it may have an overlapping seam. Thereafter,second jacket79 is applied overarmor layer77.Armor layer77 may be formed from any suitable material such as a dielectric such as a high-strength polymer or a conductive material such as a steel tape. Moreover, the armor layer may be, shaped, ribbed, corrugated or the like for improving its crush strength and/or flexural performance of the cable. In other embodiments, the cable has two armor layers with one armor layer above the cavity and one armor layer below the cavity within a single cable jacket. Additionally, the two armor layers within the cable jacket may have respective curved end portions that generally contact eachstrength member24 so that any crush forces are directed and/or transferred towards the same. Additionally, if a conductive armor component is used,strength members24 are preferably also formed from a conductive material such as steel, rather than a more expensive glass-reinforced plastic strength member. Moreover, it is also possible to join or attachstrength member24 with thearmor layer77 by gluing, crimping, welding, or the like. Consequently, the properties of each cable jacket may be tailored for performance such as coupling, tear resistance, or the other properties. By way of example,cable jacket28 may be a linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) for tear resistance and outer jacket78 may be a medium or high density polyethylene for durability and abrasion resistance; however, other suitable materials may be used. In this embodiment, the cavity does not include a tube therein and the minor cavity dimension is smaller than the strength member dimension. Additionally, the cable may include one or more optional ripcords (not visible) for opening the cable and/or removing the armor layer.

FIGS. 8A and 8B depict still anothercable10 that is similar to the cable ofFIGS. 2A and 2B, but includes a plurality of

cavities

88a,88bfor housing communication elements such as optical fibers and/or copper wires. Using more than one cavity allows for flexibility in the cable applications. Multiple cavities can have similar or different sizes that are suited for the particular application. As shown,

cavities

88aand88b. The optional strength member is advantageous if it desired to only access one of the cavities when opening the cable by allowing a stopping point and/or a guide for the cutting tool. The optional strength member may be the same size as the outboard strength members or it may have a different size. Moreover, the optional strength member may have a shape other than round so that the major cable dimension may be minimized. Other structures may be used for aiding in opening only one of multiple cavities. For instance, one or more cavities may be offset relative to the neutral axis that passes through the center points ofstrength members24. By way of example, the cavity having the four fiber ribbons is easily accessible from one major surface and the cavity having the twelve fiber ribbons is easily accessible from the other major surface. Moreover, one or more of the major surfaces may be marked (not visible) to indicate which cavity is accessible from the given surface. Of course, other cables configurations of the present invention can also use more than one cavity.

FIGS. 9A and 9B depict still anothercable10 configured as a round cable that includes looseoptical fibers12 and a plurality ofdry inserts22 disposed within atube92. In thiscable tube92 has an inner diameter that changes from the A-region to the B-region. Specifically, theA-region tube92 has an inner diameter ID1 that is changes to an inner diameter ID2 in the B-region, thereby creating and/or increasing the coupling ofoptical fibers12. In other words, acavity98achanges from a first cavity cross-sectional area CA1 to a second cavity cross-sectional area CA2, where the cavity cross-sectional ratio is between about 50% and 90%. Although shown as a plurality of dry inserts other embodiments can use a single dry insert that is generally disposed about the optical fibers. Additionally, this cable includes a plurality ofstrength members92 that are configured as tensile yarns disposed abouttube92 and acable jacket98 therearound.

Besides ribbons and loose optical fibers, other packaging arrangements for the optical fibers are also possible such as having a plurality of optical fiber modules (not shown). Optical fiber modules organize and protect the plurality ofoptical fibers12 within each module jacket that is extremely thin, flexible, and easily tearable without tools. Consequently, optical fiber modules can be routed out of the cavity of the cable while still having a protective covering disposed about the optical fibers. By way of example, the optical fiber module includes twelve coloredoptical fibers12, thereby forming a relatively high optical fiber packing density. Moreover, optical fiber module allows access to individual optical fibers within the module jacket without having to remove the same from a ribbon matrix material. Preferably, module jackets are formed from a material that is easily tearable without tools. For instance, the module jacket is formed from a highly filled material so that it is easily tearable by the craftsman merely using his fingers to tear the same and it will not stick to colored or tight-buffered optical fibers during manufacturing. Suitable module jacket materials may include a polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), a polycarbonate and/or a polyethylene (PE) material and/or an ethylene vinyl acrylate (EVA) or other blends thereof having fillers like a chalk or talc; however, other suitable materials are possible such as a UV-curable acrylate. Modules may include other suitable cable components therein such as a grease, water-swellable yarn, suitable thread or tape, a ripcord, or other suitable component. Additionally, the cavity of cable may include grease, water-swellable yarn or tape, dry insert, and/or any other suitable component as desired.

The concepts of the present invention may also be implemented using cable having cavities that do not change cross-sectional areas.FIG. 10 depicts a side view of a genericdry insert42 that changes thickness along its longitudinal length of the same. Althoughdry insert42 is depicted as having acompressible layer42aand a water-swellable layer42bthat are laminated together such as a foam layer and a water-swellable layer the concept is applicable to other suitable dry inserts. Specifically,dry insert42 has a first thickness T1 that is greater than a second thickness T2. For instance, a dry insert thickness ratio is defined as the second thickness T2 divided by the first thickness T1. The dry insert thickness ratio (T2/T1) is between about 50% and about 90%, but other values are possible.FIGS. 11A and 11B depict anotherfiber optic cable10 where acavity118ahas a similar cavity cross-sectional area CA1 (likewise the cavity height CH1 is the similar) in both the A-region and the B-region.Dry insert42 can be formed with the first thickness T1 or an additional portion may be added to a dry insert having a uniform thickness (as represented by the portion above the dashed line), thereby forming the first thickness T1. In other words, an additional portion of a compressible layer may be positioned and/or attached to the dry insert having a generally uniform thickness at the desired position/spacing, thereby creatingdry insert42. As shown byFIG. 11A,optical fiber ribbons13 are loosely disposed within acavity118aof acable jacket118 where dry insert(s)42 has a second thickness T2. On the other hand,optical fiber ribbons13 are coupled withincavity118aofcable jacket118 where dry insert(s)42 have a first thickness T1. The concepts of this cable design may be applied to other cable designs with or without changing the cavity cross-sectional area.

FIG. 12 schematically illustrates an explanatory one-pass manufacturing line120 for tubeless fiber optic cables according to the present invention such as shown inFIGS. 2A and 2B; however, other variations of the concepts may be used to manufacture other assemblies and/or cables according to the concepts of the present invention. Onepass manufacturing line120 includes at least one opticalribbon payoff reel121, a plurality of dryinsert payoff reels122, a plurality of strengthmember payoff reels123, a plurality ofstrength member capstans124, across-head extruder125, awater trough126, one or more caterpullers127, and a take-upreel129. Additionally, tubeless fiber optic cables may further include an armor layer and a second cable jacket therearound, thereby forming a tubeless fiber optic cable similar the cable illustrated inFIGS. 7A and 7B. The armor layer and/or second cable jacket can be manufactured on the same line or on a second manufacturing line.

The explanatory manufacturing process includes paying-off at least oneoptical fiber ribbon13 and

dry inserts

22,23 from

respective reels

131,132, and132 and the different methods for forming the coupling features are discussed below. Only one payoff reel foroptical fiber ribbon13 is shown for clarity. However, manufacturing lines can include any suitable number of payoff reels for one or more ribbons or optical fibers in order to manufacture assemblies and/or cables according to the present invention. Thereafter,

dry inserts

22,23 are generally positioned aboutoptical fiber ribbon13, thereby forming a cable core21 (i.e., a dry insert-ribbon composite stack or sandwich). Additionally,strength members24 are paying-offrespective reels123 under a relatively high tension (e.g., between about 100 to about 600 pounds) using respectivestrength member capstans124, thereby elastically stretching strength members24 (represented by the arrows) so that ERL is produced in the tubeless fiber optic cable. In other words, after the tension is released onstrength members24 they return to their original unstressed length (i.e. shorten), thereby producing ERL such as up to 1.2% or more since the ribbons were introduced into the cable with about the same length as tensioned strength members and the ribbons were not stretched. Stated another way, the amount of ERL produced is equal to about the strength member strain (i.e., elastically stretching of the strength member) plus any plastic shrinkage of the cable jacket that may occur. The strength member strain can create a significant amount of ERL or EFL in a one-pass production such as 10% or more, 25% or more, 50% or more, and even up to 80% or more of the total ERL or EFL within the cable. Furthermore, elastically stretching of the strength member is advantageous since it allows for a precise control of the amount of ERL or EFL being introduced into the cable and greatly reduces strength member pistoning since the finished cable jacket is in compression instead of tension. For the manufacture of the tubelessfiber optic cable10 ofFIGS. 2A and 2B, about 95% of ERL is introduced into the cable by elastically stretching the strength members. Thereafter,cable core21 andstrength members24 are fed intocross-head extruder125 wherecable jacket28 is extruded aboutcable core21 andstrength members24, thereby forming the tubelessfiber optic cable10. As shown byFIG. 12, cable jacket is being applied about the optical fibers and strength members bycross-head extruder125 while the strength members are elastically stretched. After extrusion,cable10 is then quenched inwater trough126 while the strength member is still elastically stretched, thereby allowing the cable jacket to “freeze” on the stretched strength members. Tubelessfiber optic cable10 is pulled through the manufacturing line using one or more caterpullers127 and then wound onto take-upreel129 under low tension (i.e., the tensile force that elastically stretched the strength members is released and strength members return to a relaxed length thereby creating ERL or EFL in the cable). As depicted in the box, one manufacturing line may be used to form a tubeless fiber optic cable similar to tubelessfiber optic cable10 as shown inFIGS. 7A and 7B. As shown, asecond caterpuller127 is used for pulling the cable assembly as thearmor layer77 is paid-off areel131 and formed aboutcable10 using suitable armor forming equipment (not depicted), and asecond cable jacket79 is extruded thereover using across-head extruder132. Thereafter, the tubeless fiber optic cable armored cable passes into asecond water trough134 before being wound-up on take-upreel129. Additionally, other cables and/or manufacturing lines according to the concepts of the present invention are possible. For instance, cables and/or manufacturing lines may include a water-swellable tape, yarn, or the like; however, the use of one or more other suitable cable components is possible.

If the coupling feature is formed merely by usingdry insert42 with a changing thickness then the explanatory manufacturing line shown inFIG. 12 is suitable for making the fiber optic cable ofFIGS. 11A and 11B. However, if the coupling feature is provided by changing the cavity cross-sectional area then additional manufacturing complexity is required for the explanatory manufacturing line ofFIG. 12 as discussed below.FIGS. 13A and 13B schematically depict one method using anexemplary extrusion tooling200 for changing the cavity cross-sectional area by changing the amount of polymer provided during extrusion of the B-region of the cable. Specifically,extrusion tooling200 includes atip202 and adie204 that can allow more polymer into the cable cross-section, thereby resulting in a smaller cavity cross-section. More specifically, during manufacturing one or more portions ofdie204 can move from a first position shown inFIG. 13A to a second position shown inFIG. 13B, thereby allowing more of amolten polymer208 to pass into the cable cross-section. Additionally, the extruder screw speed may have to increase to deliver more molten polymer for the cable jacket. As shown inFIG. 13B, anupper portion204aofdie204 moves upward to allow more molten polymer to flow and creating a thicker jacket wall thickness (i.e., a smaller cavity) in the B-region of the cable. Since only theupper portion204aofdie204 moves the cavity formed is asymmetrical, if both an upper and lower portion ofdie204 moves then the cavity more symmetrical.FIGS. 14A and 14B depict another method for changing the cross-sectional shape of the cavity. As shown,FIG. 14A shows theextrusion tooling200 and a deformingelement206 for making cable in the A-region. When the B-region of the cable is desired, deformingelement206 contacts themolten cable jacket208 to deform the same, thereby changing the cavity cross-sectional area. Other manufacturing methods are also possible. By way of example, another method may use both a moveable die to increase amount of molten material and then use one or more deforming elements to create a change in cross-sectional shape. Further these methods can be applied to tubes and/or round cable in order to create the desired level of coupling.

Cables of the present invention are also useful as a portion of a larger cable assembly that is useful for distributing optical fibers toward the subscriber. The cable assemblies can be assembled in the factory or they can be constructed in the field. A variety of fiber optic assemblies may be constructed from fiber optic cables of the present invention. For instance,FIG. 15 depicts fiberoptic cable assembly110 that includesfiber optic cable10 as a portion of a distribution cable assembly. As shown, atether cable140 is attached tofiber optic cable10 at a first end and includes aprotective covering111 for covering the splice portion between fiberoptic cable10 andtether cable140. A second end oftether cable140 can include one or more ferrules attached thereto and the ferrule may be a portion of a receptacle, plug, or the like for plug and play connectivity. Illustratively,FIG. 15 depicts ahardened plug connector145 on the second end oftether cable140. Of course, the second end oftether cable140 can have any suitable configuration for connectivity such as splice-ready optical fibers, a connector or a receptacle having a ferrule, a multi-port or the like, thereby allowing the craft flexibility for downstream connectivity.FIG. 16 depicts a fiberoptic cable assembly110′ similar toFIG. 15 but it includes a multi-port160 having a plurality ofreceptacles160aattached to a second end oftether cable140. Likewise, other types and/or structures are possible for fiber optic assemblies according to the concepts of the invention. For instance, a hardened connector or receptacle could be directly attached to the tubeless fiber optic cable.

It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the cable and cable assemblies of the present invention without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. For instance, cables or assemblies of the present invention can include other cable components such as ripcords, paper or mica tapes, a friction element, and/or other suitable components. Thus, it is intended that the present invention cover the modifications and variations of this invention provided they come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A fiber optic cable comprising;

at least one optical fiber; and

a cable jacket, the cable jacket having at least one cavity, wherein the at least one optical fiber is disposed within the at least one cavity, the at least one cavity having a first cavity cross-sectional area (CA1) and a second cavity crops-sectional area (CA2) located at different longitudinal locations along the cable, wherein the first cavity cross-sectional area is greater than the second cavity cross-sectional area.

2. The fiber optic cable ofclaim 1, the cavity having a cavity cross-sectional ratio being defined as the second cavity cross-sectional area divided by the first cavity cross-sectional area, wherein the cavity cross-sectional ratio (CA2/CA1) is between about 50 % and about 90 %.

3. The fiber optic cable ofclaim 1, the at least one optical fiber having a predetermined level of coupling to the cable jacket wherein the predetermined level of coupling is about 0.1625 Newtons or more per optical fiber for a thirty meter length of fiber optic cable.

4. The fiber optic cable ofclaim 1, further comprising one or more water blocking elements disposed in the at least one cavity selected from the group of a water blocking powder, a water blocking yarn, a water-blocking thread, a water blocking tape, and a water blocking gel.

5. The fiber optic cable ofclaim 1, further comprising one or more dry inserts disposed in the at least one cavity.

6. (canceled)

7. The fiber optic cable ofclaim 1, further comprising further comprising a first strength element and a second strength element attached to the cable jacket on opposite sides of the at least one cavity.

8. (canceled)

9. The fiber optic cable ofclaim 1, the fiber optic cable having a flame-retardant characteristic.

10. (canceled)

11. The fiber optic cable ofclaim 1, wherein the fiber optic cable is a portion of a fiber optic cable assembly.

12. A fiber optic cable comprising:

at least one optical fiber;

at least one dry inserts; and

a cable jacket, the cable jacket having at least one cavity, wherein the at least one optical fiber and the at least one dry insert are disposed within the at least one cavity, the cavity having a first cavity cross-sectional area (CA1) and a second cavity cross-sectional area (CA2) located at different longitudinal locations along the cable, wherein the first cavity cross-sectional area is greater than the second cavity cross-sectional area.

13. The fiber optic cable ofclaim 12, the cavity having a cavity cross-sectional ratio being defined as the second cavity cross-sectional area divided by the first cavity cross-sectional area, wherein the cavity cross-sectional ratio (CA2/CA1) is between about 50 % and about 90 %.

14. The fiber optic cable ofclaim 12, the at least one optical fiber having a predetermined level of coupling to the cable jacket wherein the predetermined level of coupling is about 0.1625 Newtons or more per optical fiber for a thirty meter length of fiber optic cable.

15. The fiber optic cable ofclaim 12, further comprising one or more water blocking elements disposed in the at least one cavity selected from the group of a water blocking powder, a water-blocking yarn, a water blocking thread, a water blocking tape, and a water blocking gel.

16. The fiber optic cable ofclaim 12, the at least one dry insert having a compressible layer and a water-swellable layer that are attached together.

17. (canceled)

18. The fiber optic cable ofclaim 12, further comprising a first strength element and a second strength element attached to the cable jacket on opposite sides of the at least one cavity.

19. (canceled)

20. The fiber optic cable ofclaim 12, the fiber optic cable having a flame-retardant characteristic.

21. (canceled)

22. The fiber optic cable ofclaim 12, wherein the fiber optic cable is a portion of a fiber optic cable assembly.

23. A method for manufacturing a fiber optic cable comprising at least one optical fiber disposed in at least one cavity of a cable jacket comprising the steps of:

providing at least one optical fiber;

applying a cable jacket about the at least one optical fiber, the cable jacket having a cavity, wherein the step of applying the cable jacket includes changing a cavity cross-sectional area between a first location and a second location along a length of the cable jacket for improving coupling of the at least one optical fiber.

24. The method ofclaim 23, the step of changing of the cavity cross-sectional area being selected from the group of applying a cable jacket having a wall thickness that varies the cavity cross-sectional area at one or more locations along the cable jacket or deforming the cable jacket while is it still molten.

25. The method ofclaim 23, wherein the at least one cavity has a first cavity cross-sectional area (CA1) and a second cavity cross-sectional area (CA2) located at different longitudinal locations along the cable and a cavity cross-sectional ratio is defined as the second cavity cross-sectional area divided by the first cavity cross-sectional area, wherein the cavity cross-sectional ratio (CA2/CA1) is between about 50 % and about 90 %.

26. The method ofclaim 23, wherein the at least one optical fiber has a predetermined level of coupling to the cable jacket wherein the predetermined level of coupling is about 0.1625 Newtons or more per optical fiber for a thirty meter length of fiber optic cable.

27. The method ofclaim 23 further comprising the step of providing one or more water blocking elements for inhibiting the migration of water along the fiber optic cable.

28. The method ofclaim 23, further comprising the step of applying one or more dry inserts that are disposed within the at least one cavity.

29. (canceled)

30. The method ofclaim 23, further comprising the step of applying a first strength element and a second strength element, wherein the first strength element and the second strength element are disposed on opposite sides of the at least one cavity.

31. (canceled)

32. The method ofclaim 23, the step of applying the cable jacket including using a polymer having a flame-retardant characteristic.

33. The method ofclaim 23, further comprising the step of applying an armor component.