Distribution cable having articulated optical connection nodes
US7136555B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 27, 2004 |
| Grant date | Nov 14, 2006 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 27, 2024 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG02B6/3879
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A fiber optic distribution cable having at least one mid-span access location includes a plurality of optical connection nodes for providing access to preterminated optical fibers of the distribution cable. Preferably, the optical connection nodes are articulated and linked together to form a low-profile linear chain of connection nodes that is sufficiently flexible to be deployed through small diameter conduit and aerial lashing equipment. Each connection node includes a housing that surrounds the distribution cable, a connecting link for receiving and routing one or more of the preterminated optical fibers, and an adapter for interconnecting a preterminated and connectorized optical fiber of the distribution cable with a connectorized optical fiber of a branch cable or drop cable. The distribution cable may also include a tether attached to the distribution cable such that the linear chain of connection nodes is slidably or removably attached to the distribution cable.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.