Figure eight linear dispenser

Abstract

A figure eight linear dispenser (10) having an optical fiber winding configuration adapted to dispense an optical fiber waveguide (14) at high speed. The dispenser (10) is built up of a series of flat winding layers, with each layer comprising an interlaced figure eight pattern. More particularly, the dispenser (10) comprises a housing having a pair of bobbins (12a, 12b) respectively centered on a pair of half-circular outer guides (13a, 13b). The optical fiber waveguide (14) is wound around the bobbins (12a, 12b) inside the outer guides (13a, 13b) in a series of layers (15a-15e) of figure eight loops (16a-16e). An optional cover may be disposed over the bobbins (12a, 12b) and the guides (13a, 13b) in order to enclose the waveguide (14). The waveguide pay-out of the dispenser (10) through a properly spaced eyelet (17) is nearly helix-free and linear as a result of cancellation of the angular momentum in the paired figure eight loops (16a-16e). The dispenser (10) permits linear (helix-free) payout at higher speeds than other types of linear dispensers. This is accomplished by a reduction in the waveguide tension for a given payout velocity. The dispenser (10) increases the applicability of fiber tethered links to a wider range of high performance missiles and vehicles because of its increased payout speed and linear payout capability. Linear payout allows ducting of the paid out fiber to avoid a direct thrust missile plume. The dispenser also uses a relative small exit aperture or eyelet (17) for the fiber waveguide (14) which reduces aerodynamic drag and radar cross section of the carrying vehicle.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.