Method and apparatus for removing optic fiber from multiple spools

A method of removing strands of optic fiber from one or more spools on which the fibers are stored without damaging the spools comprising:

• placing a first spool containing a first strand of optic fiber on an annular platform fixed to a tree having an axle around which the tree can be rotated;
• placing a plurality of other spools each containing a strand of optic fiber on one or more annular platforms fixed to the tree;
• feeding a free end of the first strand of optic fiber through one of a plurality of eyes featured adjacent to the at least one platform;
• feeding the free end of the first strand of optic fiber into an entrance of a continuous passage, said continuous passage having an entrance positioned adjacent to the tree;
• using a blower to blow air into the continuous passage to create suction in the continuous passage and using the suction to move the free end of the first strand of optic fiber through the continuous passage and out of the passage exit;
• and
• attaching the free end of the first strand of optic fiber to a rotating carousel such that the first strand of optic fiber accumulates on an exterior of the carousel as the carousel rotates;
• attaching a free end of each of the strands of optic fiber from the plurality of other spools to the first strand of optic fiber such that each strand of optic fiber from the plurality of other spools is pulled into the continuous passage by the first strand of optic fiber;
• positioning rollers within the continuous passage such that all of the strands of optic fiber contact the rollers as they move through the continuous passage;
• spreading all of the strands of optic fiber from the first spool and the plurality of other spools leaving the exit of the continuous passage across the exterior of the carousel using a reciprocating tracking unit;
• rotating the carousel such that all of the strands of optic fiber from the first spool and the plurality of other spools wrap around retractable rails featured by the carousel;
• stopping the rotation of the carousel;
• retracting rails featured by the carousel;
• and
• removing all of the strands of optic fiber from the first spool and the plurality of other spools that have accumulated on the carousel.