Patent ID: 7197215
Filing Date: 2007-03-27
Classification: G02B

Abstract:
1. A tubeless fiber optic cable comprising: at least one optical fiber extending in a longitudinal direction; an outer jacket extending in the longitudinal direction so as to surround the at least one optical fiber, the outer jacket having a cross-section defining an inner surface and an outer surface with the inner surface defining a cavity in the longitudinal direction that excludes a buffer tube therein; a plurality of strength members extending in the longitudinal direction along the outer jacket, the plurality of strength members being at least partially disposed within the outer jacket so that at least a portion of each of the plurality of strength members protrude from the inner surface of the outer jacket; and a ripcord extending in the longitudinal direction along the outer jacket, the ripcord being disposed within the outer jacket and substantially adjacent the strength members, whereby the outer jacket, strength members and ripcord are oriented so that removal of material from the outer jacket adjacent the ripcord exposes the ripcord, and ripping a portion of the ripcord from the outer jacket provides for separation of the outer jacket, thereby allowing for access to the cavity and the at least one optical fiber.