Methods for forming cables with shapeable strength members
AssigneeSuperior Essex International LP
InventorChristopher W. McNutt
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A method for forming a cable may include providing a strength member that includes a plurality of strength fibers positioned within a shapeable resin material. A shape of the strength member may be modified along its longitudinal length while twisting the strength member with one or more fiber optic components. The modified shape of the strength member may then be fixed within a desired operating temperature range of the cable, and a jacket may be formed around the strength member and the one or more optical fiber components.
Claims20
A method for forming a cable, the method comprising:
- providing a strength member comprising a plurality of strength fibers positioned within a shapeable resin material, the shapeable resin material comprising a plurality of curable component materials;
- curing a first of the plurality of curable component materials to activate the shapeable resin material;
- modifying, subsequent to activating the shapeable resin material, a shape of the strength member along its longitudinal length while twisting the strength member with one or more fiber optic components;
- curing a second of the plurality of curable component materials to fix the modified shape of the strength member within a desired operating temperature range of the cable;
- and
- forming a jacket around the strength member and the one or more optical fiber components.
A method for forming a cable, the method comprising:
- providing a strength member having a first shape along a longitudinal length and comprising a plurality of strength fibers positioned within a shapeable resin material, the shapeable resin material comprising a plurality of curable component materials;
- curing a first of the plurality of curable component materials to activate the shapeable resin material;
- modifying, subsequent to activating the shapeable resin material, the strength member to have a second shape along the longitudinal length different than the first shape;
- positioning one or more fiber optic components adjacent to the strength member;
- curing a second of the plurality of curable components materials to fix the second shape of the strength member within a desired operating temperature range of the cable;
- and
- forming a jacket around the strength member and the one or more optical fiber components.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.