Fibre-optic cable
US4181397A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 10, 1978 |
| Grant date | Jan 1, 1980 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 10, 1998 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG02B6/4415
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A fibre-optic cable includes a fibre-bundle, for transmitting light along the cable, that is sealed at either end to a metal ferrule. Each end of the fibre-bundle projects a short distance from its respective ferrule and is enclosed by a metal collar which is welded to the ferrule. The projecting ends of the fibre-bundle are sealed to the ferrules by melting a glass tube within each collar about the ends of the fibre-bundle. A thread of glass or Silastomer material extends between the two ferrules and is helically wound about the fibre-bundle so as to hold together the fibres of the fibre-bundle. Convoluted outer metal tubing extends about the fibre-bundle and is welded at each end to respective ferrules. The fibre-bundle is cushioned within the outer tubing by a sleeve of woven fibre which also extends between the two ferrules about the fibre-bundle and the helical thread. The outer tubing may be evacuated or contain an inert gas at low pressure, or the outer tubing could contain a lubricant such as powdered polytetrafluoroethylene. Alternatively, a silicone oil could be used as a lubricant and, where the cable is to have one end mounted at a hot location, the silicone oil could b…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.