Patent ID: 6349460
Filing Date: 2002-02-26
Classification: G02B,H02G,Y10T

Abstract:
A method for installing an optical fiber cable for retention in an enclosure having an interior bore in communication with at least a first opening to the enclosure, comprising the steps of:pushing a first end of the optical fiber cable into the first opening of the enclosure to install the optical fiber cable therein, while capturing via the first end of the optical fiber cable, an image of the interior bore of the enclosure, and transmitting the image via the optical fiber cable for display to enable detection of a narrowing of the interior bore of the enclosure that may impede further optical fiber cable installation; and in the event of detecting such a narrowing; applying an outward mechanical pushing force against the interior bore of the enclosure by circumscribing the first end of the optical fiber cable in a casing for receipt within the interior bore of the enclosure, the casing having a pair of diametrically opposed outwardly extending pivotally mounted fingers; and pivoting the fingers diametrically outward against the enclosure by actuating a control unit situated outside said enclosure and linked to said fingers through a control cable, in response to detecting a narrowing of the interior bore so that the fingers extend against the bore, thereby reducing the narrowing to facilitate further fiber installation in the enclosure for retention therein.