Patent ID: 6047586
Filing Date: 2000-04-11
Classification: B29C,G02B

Abstract:
Method for producing a metal tube with at least one optical fiber extending therethrough, comprising the steps of:(a) placing metal on a surface of a frictional wheel having a circumference;(b) conveying the metal on the surface of the frictional wheel to a retaining space by applying pressure and temperature;(c) extruding the metal from the retaining space through an annular exit opening of a forming nozzle in a direction which is approximately tangential to the circumference of the frictional wheel to form a metal tube as the metal solidifies;(d) passing at least one optical fiber through a feed opening disposed in the forming nozzle into the metal tube, the at least one fiber being spaced apart from the exit opening, the feed opening of the forming nozzle is a hollow needle through which the at least one optical fiber is introduced into the metal tube; and(e) embedding the at least one optical fiber in a filler material disposed inside the metal tube, the filler material being introduced into the metal tube through the hollow needle.