Fiber optic cable assembly with thermoplastically overcoated fusion splice, and related method and apparatus
US11131811B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 17, 2019 |
| Grant date | Sep 28, 2021 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 17, 2039 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG02B6/2558
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A method for protecting fusion spliced optical fibers includes immersing sections of fusion spliced first and second optical fibers in a pool of molten thermoplastic material, followed by removal and cooling of liquid-coated areas, to yield a solid thermoplastic overcoating that extends over a splice joint as well as previously stripped sections and pre-coated sections of the first and second optical fibers. Optionally, a strength member may be adhered to the solid thermoplastic overcoating to provide a reinforced fusion spliced section. A strength member may include a metal rod or a secondary, thick thermoplastic coating. A fiber optic cable assembly includes a solid thermoplastic overcoating that extends over the splice joint as well as previously stripped sections and pre-coated sections of the fibers. Such coating may be formed rapidly with minimal capital expense, may dispense with the need for integrated strength members, and may provide reduced size and enhanced flexibility as compared to heat shrink protection sleeves.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.