Optic fiber cable fanout conduit arrangements; components, and methods

Fanout conduit arrangements, and systems and methods are provided to organize a plurality of optic fibers of an optic fiber cable. The arrangements include a fanout member having an inspection aperture arrangement therethrough, through which fibers can be inspected and a fixation media can be transferred to protect the fibers. Methods for assembling the fanout conduit arrangement are also provided.

FIELD OF INVENTION

This disclosure relates to fanout conduit arrangements for fiber optic cables; components thereof; and, methods of use and assembly.

BACKGROUND

The internal construction of fiber optic cables often comprises a plurality of optic fibers. A technician connects a cable fanout conduit arrangement to/on a fiber optic cable to manage the various optic fibers. The fanout arrangement organizes the fibers to facilitate management and maintenance, for example at a junction point.

Previous approaches have been developed to address optic fiber cable fanouts. Examples are described in such references as U.S. Pat. Nos. 8,705,930 and 8,573,855, each of which is incorporated herein by reference. Improvements are desired and provided herein.

SUMMARY

To manage transport and connection of optical fibers at a subsequent juncture point, optic fibers in a cable should be organized. Organizing optic fibers can include fanning out the fibers from a sheathed protection layer of the cable with a cable fanout assembly. Once the fibers are fanned out, the fibers are preferably channeled in a selected arrangement. The present disclosure is directed to systems, apparatus and methods for organization and management of the optic fibers in a cable fanout conduit arrangement.

One aspect of the disclosure relates to cable fanout conduit arrangement comprising a cable fanout assembly. The cable fanout assembly includes a cable fanout member and an endcap arrangement. The endcap arrangement is operationally (operably) positioned on an end of the fanout member. A section of the cable fanout member defines an inspection aperture arrangement. The inspection aperture arrangement provides an access point for the technician to examine fibers passing through the cable fanout member and for the technician to put a fill or fixation material into the cable fanout member to secure and protect the fiber(s).

Aspects of the disclosure also relate to optic fiber cables having such cable fanout assemblies thereon. Other aspects of the disclosure relate to methods for use and assembly.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

I: General Fanout Assembly and Use

A. Brief Additional Description Relating to Optic Fiber Cable Fanout Conduit Arrangements and Issues

A fiber optic cable typically includes a plurality of optic fibers. In some instances, fibers of the cable need to be accessed and/or managed. An optic fiber cable fanout conduit arrangement can be used to manage the fibers by fanning-out the fibers. The term “fanning-out” as used herein, in this context, references a process of organizing the fibers, typically by aligning them as the fibers pass a conduit arrangement.

Issues with cable fanout approaches relate to the following: ease of assembly in the field, ease of determining proper fiber alignment in the assembly and ease of securing with a satisfactory fiber alignment. The issues further include protecting fibers once fanned out during assembly and subsequent operations.

B. General Features of an Example Optic Fiber Cable Fanout Conduit Arrangement According to the Present Disclosure:FIGS. 1-4A

InFIG. 1, a schematic representation of an example optic fiber cable fanout conduit arrangement100according to the present disclosure is depicted operably positioned on an optic fiber cable110comprising a plurality of fibers115. By “operably positioned” (or alternatively “operationally positioned”) in this context, it is meant that the optic fiber cable fanout conduit arrangement100is depicted relative to the cable110as it would appear (schematically) in use. It is noted that with respect to the schematic view ofFIG. 1, it is not meant to be suggested that any specific number of fibers115will be present in any given system and there can be variations from those shown. Also, specific sizes of the fibers115and/or size of the fibers115relative to one another, the cable110or other components are not meant to be specifically indicated. Thus, variations are possible.

More generally herein when “operably positioned” or “operationally position” with respect to a feature or feature is discussed, what is meant is that in-use the feature or features would be engaged generally as characterized.

The optic fiber cable fanout conduit arrangement100provides organization to the plurality of fibers115in the cable110. Organizing the optic fibers115results in reduction and/or inhibition of undesirable bunching or tangling of optic fibers. The structure of the optic fiber cable fanout conduit arrangement100reduces fiber bunching by fanning out the fibers115and channeling the fibers into organizational substructures116.

As the fibers115transition from the cable110to the organizational substructures116, the fibers115exit a cable fanout assembly119. Subsequent to exiting the cable fanout assembly119, a technician can selectively manage the fibers115at junctions.

Referring toFIG. 1, the cable fanout assembly119comprises a cable fanout member120and a fiber-organizing endcap arrangement130. The cable fanout conduit arrangement119depicted includes an optional covering140over the cable fanout member120.

FIG. 2is the view of assembly100ofFIG. 1taken toward the fibers115as they exit the organizational substructures116; in this instance the substructures116comprising a plurality of fiber furcation tubes118. The fiber furcation tubes118are positioned on the fiber-organizing endcap arrangement130and provide organizing channels for the (fanned-out fibers)115, as they are fanned-out and exit the cable fanout assembly119. The fiber furcation tubes118protect the fibers115as the fibers115exit the cable fanout assembly119. The lengths of the furcation tubes118and fibers115are variable and may be different than shown, with respect to a particular use. In general terms, the fiber-organizing endcap arrangement130in combination with the fiber furcation tubes118comprises the above referenced organizational substructure(s)116. Typically, the fiber furcation tubes118are flexible, so a technician can direct them to selected functions.

Still referring toFIG. 2, the fiber-organizing endcap arrangement130comprises a fiber-organizing arrangement135that organizes the fiber furcation tubes118into a selected preferred pattern. The fiber-organizing arrangement135depicted comprises a tube-organizing arrangement comprising a plurality of tube-organizing grooves136, discussed below.

The depicted furcation tubes118are uniform, but the furcation tubes118can vary in size or shape. In an example depicted, the furcation tubes118have circular cross-sections such that the related cross-dimensions are diameters. However, variations in geometric cross-section are possible. To accommodate possible variable cross-dimensions of the furcation tubes118, the orientation of the tube-organizing grooves136can also be varied from the depicted embodiment.

InFIG. 3, a schematic, fragmentary, cross-sectional view is provided, depicting the cable fanout conduit arrangement100, i.e. assembly119. The depicted cable fanout member120includes a cable fanout member sidewall122. The cable fanout member120defines a conduit123extending between two opposite ends122a,122bof the cable fanout member sidewall122(i.e. the conduit123extends between corresponding opposite ends120aand120bof the cable fanout member120). Thus the conduit123has corresponding opposite ends123aand123b. The conduit123serves as a passage for the cable110and optic fibers115through the optic fiber cable fanout conduit arrangement100.

In the embodiment depicted, the conduit123extends between the two opposite ends123aand123balong a linear central axis112. The central axis112can be a center axis of the conduit123, for example when the conduit123is circular in cross-section. However, alternatives are possible. In some applications, the central axis112can be non-linear in extension between the two opposite conduit ends123a,123b, although this typically will not be preferred.

In the example depicted, the end122aof the cable fanout member sidewall122is an end that the fanned-out fibers115exit. The end122adefines a fiber-organizing endcap arrangement receiver125. The cable fiber-organizing endcap arrangement130is operably positioned at (on) the fiber-organizing endcap arrangement receiver125. In the depicted example the fiber-organizing endcap arrangement receiver125surrounds the cable fiber-organizing endcap arrangement130; however, alternatives are possible.

Still referring toFIG. 3, the example embodiment fiber-organizing endcap arrangement130includes an exterior, end, surface130e. The exterior surface130eis the surface from which the fibers115exit the cable fanout assembly119. In the example embodiment, the exterior surface130eof fiber-organizing endcap arrangement130is flush (or nearly flush) with the end122aof the fiber-organizing endcap arrangement receiver125. However, alternatives are possible. For example, the surface130can be recessed within conduit123.

FIG. 3Ais an enlarged fragmentary view of a portion forFIG. 3discussed below. InFIG. 3A, features previously discussed are viewable including: the cable110, plurality of fibers115, and progression of the fibers115through the conduit123.

InFIG. 4, a schematic, fragmentary, cross-sectional view is provided depicting an optional protective cover140for a portion of the cable fanout conduit arrangement119depicted inFIG. 3. When cable fanout conduit arrangement100is assembled, a portion123xof conduit123(FIG. 4A) is accessible through an inspection aperture arrangement124. The conduit123depicted is filled (i.e. appropriately filled) with fixation media160. The cover140is typically applied after the media160is inserted, to then close and cover the inspection aperture arrangement124.

In the example depicted, an internal profile140i,FIG. 4, of the example cover140depicted contours to an exterior profile119x,FIG. 4A, of the cable fanout assembly119. In the example,FIG. 4, an exterior profile140eof the cover140also contours to the exterior profile119xof the cable fanout assembly119. However, alternatives are possible for each.

In some applications, the cover140can comprise a shrink wrap cover. Alternative materials are possible. For example, the cover140can comprise a tape that is wrapped around the exterior of the cable fanout assembly119; or, a cover piece attached to the assembly119, closing aperture arrangement124.

InFIG. 4A, underlying structure of the cable fanout assembly119in the absence of the underlying cover140is shown. Features previously discussed are viewable including: the cable110, a plurality of fibers115, the cable fanout assembly119, conduit123and various furcation tubes118.

II: Example Components; Selected and Preferred Features

As described previously, the cable fanout assembly119includes a cable fanout member120and a cable organizing fanout endcap arrangement130. The cable fanout member120is depictedFIGS. 5-9.

Referring toFIG. 5, the cable fanout member120comprises the fanout member sidewall122extending between opposite ends122aand122b. The cable fanout member120and the cable fanout member sidewall122defines a first section127and a second section128.

In general terms, the first section127is positioned adjacent to the end122a(or similar exit end); and, the second section128is positioned adjacent to the opposite end122b(or cable receiver end). The conduit123, having opposite ends123a,123b, extends completely through the first section127and the second section128. The second section128is a cable receiver end, i.e. it is where the cable enters the cable fanout member120at end122b. The first section127is where the fibers115(FIG. 3) are fanned out (organized). End122ais where the fibers115(FIG. 3) exit during use.

As shown inFIG. 5, in the first section127, the fanout member sidewall122define an inspection aperture arrangement124. A sufficiently sized inspection aperture arrangement124aids a technician in accomplishing fiber management tasks. For example, the inspection aperture arrangement124, in-use, provides for the following: when the cable fanout member120is positioned on the cable110as shown inFIG. 3, a technician can perform an examination of the fanned-out fibers. Second, a technician can insert fixation media (or fill)160into the conduit123(in the first section127) by passage through the inspection aperture arrangement124. The fixation media160is typically a flowable material that is put into the conduit123around the fibers115in flowable form and allowed to cure (or harden) to fix and protect the fibers. (Herein when the terms “cure” and/or “harden” are used, no specific reference is meant to the mechanism of the curing or hardening; i.e. a chemical reaction or non-chemical reaction setting).

Referring toFIG. 5, the inspection aperture arrangement124has opposite ends124aand124b, with end124ais toward sidewall end122aand end124bis toward cable fanout member sidewall end (cable receiver end)122b. It is noted that the cable fanout member120completely surrounds the conduit123(and, as a result in use the fibers115) adjacent at least one, and typically both, of opposite ends124aand124bof the inspection aperture arrangement124.

In many applications, the cable fanout member120(and the sidewall122) will be continuous and integral in extension around the conduit123(and in use the fibers115) adjacent opposite ends124aand124bof the inspection aperture arrangement124. That is, in typical applications the fanout member and the sidewall122are integral in their construction around the conduit123, i.e. they have no seams or joints therein. Such a continuous and integral construction provides structural integrity to the fanout member120and fanout member122, which facilitates assembly and handling. However, alternatives are possible.

In the example depicted,FIG. 5, the inspection aperture arrangement124is a single aperture124x. In some alternative applications, the inspection aperture arrangement124can comprise multiple openings. Alternatives are possible.

Still referring toFIG. 5, it is noted that in addition to ends124a,124b, the inspection aperture arrangement124includes opposite sides124c,124d. The inspection aperture arrangement124can be characterized as having a “maximum width-dimension” corresponding to a maximum dimension between the sides124c,124d, taken generally perpendicular to the central axis112. Typically, this maximum width-dimension is selected so that the conduit123has a greater width thereacross, also in a direction perpendicular to axis112that is greater than the maximum width-dimension of the aperture arrangement124. Alternately stated, preferably sides124of arrangement124reflect portions of the section127that have sides above conduit123to help contain fill160, during use. Preferably, a ratio of the maximum width-dimension of the aperture arrangement124to the maximum width-dimension of the conduit arrangement123interiorly from the inspection aperture arrangement124(each taken perpendicular to the axis112) is no greater than 0.9, usually no greater than 0.8.

It is also noted, referring toFIG. 5, that a maximum length dimension of the aperture arrangement124, in direction corresponding to the central axis112(i.e. a dimension corresponding to the distance between ends124a,124b) is greater than the maximum width-dimension (i.e. dimension between sides124c,124d). This is typical in many embodiments in which the section127is circular in cross-section. However, alternative cross-sectional shapes are possible, and in some instances, the width-dimension may be greater than the length-dimension. Typically, a ratio of the maximum length-dimension of the inspection aperture arrangement124to a maximum width-dimension of the inspection aperture arrangement124, the dimension being defined as discussed above, is at least 1.5, often at least 2.0, usually at least 2.5, and in some instances, at least 3.0.

More generally, as discussed above, the inspection aperture arrangement, especially when it is a single aperture, can be provided with a variety of shapes. In the example depicted, the maximum length, in a direction corresponding to the central axis112, is the maximum cross-dimension, and typical length/width ratios were discussed above. These will be typical, especially when the aperture arrangement124is a single aperture124xhaving, for example, a generally rectangular configuration (with rounded corners). As indicated, however, with alternate shaped sidewalls122, especially when it is the first section127, there may be instances in which the length of the inspection aperture arrangement, in the direction corresponding to the central axis112is actually shorter than the maximum width-dimension perpendicular thereto. Typically, the ratio of maximum length-dimension (in the direction of the central axis, to a maximum width-dimension perpendicularly thereto, will be within the range of 1:5 to 5:1, inclusive, typically within the range of 1:4 to 4:1, inclusive, although alternatives are possible.

The aperture arrangement124(whether a single aperture or multiple apertures) can be characterized in accord with a total open area. By the term “total open area” what is meant is the geometric area defined by the aperture arrangement (apertures). In general, the total open area needs to be sufficiently large so that a technician: can observe the fibers115passing through the conduit123and distribute the uncured fixation media into the conduit123and around the fibers115,FIG. 3. The total open area should not be so large as to place the structural integrity of the cable fanout member120at risk. As depicted inFIG. 6, the inspection aperture arrangement124is a single aperture124xhaving a generally rectangular shape. However, again, alternative geometric shapes are possible.

In an example arrangement configured and proportioned as shown inFIG. 5, typically the total open area will be at least 200 square millimeters (0.31 square inches); usually the total open area will be at least 300 square millimeters (0.47 square inches); and often the total open area will be at least 400 square millimeters (0.620 square inches). In many instances, it will not be larger than 1000 square millimeters, 1.55 square inches), but alternatives are possible.

Referring toFIG. 6, the inspection aperture arrangement124is additionally or alternatively definable by a maximum length dimension and a maximum width dimension. In general, the maximum length dimension (corresponding Dimension AH) is a length orientated in the same direction as the central axis112. The maximum width dimension (corresponding to Dimension AL) is a maximum width taken in a direction perpendicular to the length dimension.

Typically, the maximum length dimension will be at least 20 millimeters (0.79 inches); usually, the maximum length dimension will be at least 25 millimeters (about 1 inch); and often, the maximum length dimension will be at least 30 millimeters (0.620 inches). In many instances, it will not be larger than 100 millimeters (3.94 inches), although alternatives are possible.

Typically, the maximum width dimension will be at least 7 millimeters (0.28 inches); usually, the maximum width dimension will be at least 9 millimeters (0.35 inches); and often, the maximum width dimension will be at least 11 millimeters (0.43 inches). In many instances, it will not be larger than 30 millimeters (1.2 inches), usually not more than 20 millimeters (0.79 inches) but alternatives are possible.

The provided dimensions are related to the depicted embodiment, in alternative examples, where the cable fanout member is a different size, the maximum width dimension and the maximum length dimension can vary from those stated, but the dimensions indicated are typical of a variety of applications.

Referring toFIG. 5, a width of the inspection aperture arrangement124can additionally or alternatively be defined by a width-angle162. As depicted inFIG. 5, the width-angle162will be understood to be an angle having a vertex at the center of the conduit123and sides extending to opposite sides of the fanout member sidewall122at locations corresponding to a maximum width dimension of the inspection aperture arrangement124. Typically, the width-angle will be at least 20°; usually the width-angle will be at least 35°; and often the width-angle will be at least 40 degrees. In many instances, it will be selected to not be larger than 90°.

In referring toFIG. 7, In general, the first section127(FIG. 5.) and the second section128(FIG. 5) can each be characterized as having a respective maximum internal cross-dimension. In general, the cross-dimension defines an internal distance that spans an internal region of the respective section.

Typically, the maximum internal cross-dimension of the first section127is at least 2 millimeters (0.08 inches) greater than the maximum internal cross-dimension of the second section128; usually, the maximum internal cross-dimension of the first section127is at least 3 millimeters (0.12 inches) greater than the maximum internal cross-dimension of the second section128. In many instances, especially with circular conduits123, the maximum internal cross-dimension of the first section127will not be more than 5 millimeters (0.20 inches) larger than the maximum internal cross-dimension of the second section128.

As depicted inFIG. 7, when the conduit123has a circular cross-section, a largest diameter of the inner surface of the respective section127,128can be a maximum internal cross dimension. However alternative cross dimensions are possible when an internal cross section is not circular. In the depicted example the maximum internal cross dimension of the first section127(approximately dimension AV) is greater than the maximum internal cross dimension of the second section128(dimension AW). Alternatives with respect to the comparative sizes of the maximum internal cross dimension of the first section and the maximum internal cross dimension of the second section are possible.

In general, selected dimension ratios can be used to address preferred characterizations of the fanout member120, for example when a specific size or shape differs from the depicted example. For example, in many systems, a ratio determined by the maximum internal cross-dimension of the first section127to the maximum internal cross-dimension of the second section128is at least 1.0, and usually greater, for example, at least 1.1, sometimes at least 1.2; and, usually not more than 1.4, although alternatives are possible.

Referring to the aperture arrangement124, especially when it is a single aperture124x, typically, a ratio determined by the maximum length-dimension (previously defined) to the maximum width-dimension (previously defined) is typically at least 1.5; usually at least 2.0; and often at least 2.5. It will typically not be more than 4.0, in such systems.

Still referring to the aperture arrangement124, a ratio determined by the total open area of the aperture arrangement124to a maximum internal cross-dimensional area of the first section is often at least 0.8 and usually at least 1.0, often at least 1.12, although alternatives are possible.

A ratio determined by the maximum width-dimension of the aperture arrangement124xto the maximum internal cross-dimension of the first section is often at least 0.4; usually at least 0.5, although alternatives are possible. In a variety of systems, this ratio may be varied.

A ratio determined by the maximum length-dimension of the aperture124xto the maximum internal cross-dimension of the first section is often at least at least 1.0; usually 1.3; and often at least 1.5, although alternatives are possible.

A ratio determined by the maximum internal cross-dimension of the first section to the maximum internal cross-dimension of the second section is usually at least 1.1 and often at least 1.2, although alternatives are possible.

A ratio determined by the maximum internal cross-dimensional area of the first section to the maximum internal cross-dimensional area of the second section is typically at least 1.2 and usually at least, 1.4, although alternatives are possible.

As shown inFIGS. 5-7, the example fanout member sidewall122depicted defines an endcap arrangement receiver125. The endcap arrangement receiver125is located adjacent to the end122a. The endcap arrangement receiver125can be characterized by a cross dimension spanning the conduit123at the end122aof the side wall122. In general, the endcap arrangement receiver125is sufficiently sized to receive therein the endcap arrangement130. In this context, “sufficiently sized” indicates that dimension AV,FIG. 7, is sufficiently greater than dimension BR,FIG. 12and dimension AT,FIG. 7is sufficiently greater than or equal to dimension BO inFIG. 12.

In referring toFIGS. 5-7, the fanout member sidewall122at the endcap arrangement receiver125defines at least one optional engagement aperture arrangement126. The optional engagement aperture arrangement can function as an optional securing feature. A fastener163can be inserted through the engagement aperture arrangement126to secure the fiber-organizing endcap arrangement130to the cable fanout member120. In some examples, a surface defining the engagement aperture arrangement126can be threaded to receive a threaded fastener, such as a screw. Referring toFIG. 7, two, opposed, fasteners163and apertures126are depicted in the example, but alternatives are possible.

The second section128of the cable fanout member120is defined by a transition to a reduced cross-sectional thickness of the fanout member sidewall122. Typically, a maximum cross-sectional area of the conduit123reduces as the conduit extends from the first section127to the second section128, i.e. in transition region127t,FIG. 7.

Referring toFIG. 7, a cable abutment member150is located adjacent at the fiber fanout end122cof the second section128. The cable abutment member150provides a barrier or catch for a sheath114of a cable110,FIG. 3, while permitting the plurality of fibers to progress into the first section127. The cable abutment member150extends radially around the conduit123. The location of the cable abutment member150along a direction of extension of the cable fanout member sidewall122can be at the transition region127tbetween the first section127and the second section128.

Typically, the abutment member150will radially extend relative and adjacent portion of section128, at least 1.5 millimeters (0.06 inches); usually at least 2.5 millimeters (0.1 inches). Typically, the abutment member will not extend radially further than 5 millimeters (0.2 inches), relative to section129.

When the cable fanout member120is a single continuous, integral, piece in extension around the conduit123, typically the abutment member150will also be an integral, continuous, member. In those instances, in which the fanout member sidewall122is sectioned, the abutment member150may also be sectioned.

The abutment member150will typically be located at least 20 millimeters (0.79 inches) from the cable receiver end122b; usually at least 25 millimeters (1 inch) from the cable receiver end122. Often, the abutment member150will not be located further than 40 millimeters (1.57 inches) from the cable receiver end122b.

As shown inFIGS. 5, 7andFIG. 8, end122bof the second section128is discontinuous in extension around conduit123and axis112. In particular there is a slot arrangement156(comprising slots156a-d) defined by the fanout member sidewall122. A length of each slot156a-d, of the slot arrangement156is, typically, in a direction of the central axis112, at least 0.7 inch (18 millimeters) usually at least 1 inch (25.4 millimeters). The slots156a-dcan have the same length, but alternatives are possible.

The slots156a-156bdefines a tab arrangement154at end122bof the sidewall122. The tab arrangement154comprises a plurality of tabs154a-d. As depicted inFIG. 7. The length of each tab154a-dextends in the direction of the central axis112.

InFIG. 8, an end view of section128is shown, taken toward end122band tab arrangement154. One can see that in the example depicted, there are four slots156a-156d, defining four tabs154a-154d. Further, it can be seen that in the example depicted, the slot156a-156dare evenly spaced around conduit123; although alternatives are possible. In addition, alternatives to the number of slots and spacing are possible.

FIG. 9is a partial view of tab154adepicted inFIG. 7. In referring toFIG. 9there is a cable grip arrangement158along the length of tab154a. The cable grip arrangement158can include a plurality of projections158a-cdirected radially inward towards the conduit123. Such a grip arrangement can be included on each one of tabs154a-d.

In general, when a clasping device such as a crimp is used, the cable grip arrangement158makes the tabs154a-dmore apt to grip the cable110or cable ribbon arrangement due to the mechanical wedge formed by narrowing projections158a-c, to form an interface set with cable110. Alternatives to structure of projections are possible.

In referring toFIG. 7andFIG. 9, at an end of the tab154a, remote from section177, is positioned an optional outwardly extending end projection159. The optional end projection159extends upward from the exterior surface of the tab154. In general, the end projection159can provide a securing feature, and can be on each tab. After the cable110has been engaged to the cable fanout assembly119, a crimp or clasping device can be used to secure the cable110to the cable fanout assembly119. The end projection159can help keep the crimp or clasping device from sliding off the tab154along the central axis112.

As generally depicted inFIGS. 10-12, the fiber-organizing endcap arrangement130includes an exterior surface130e; surface130ebeing a surface facing away from section128, in use. As previously discussed, the endcap arrangement130defines a tube-organizing aperture arrangement135that includes a plurality of tube-organizing apertures134. As depicted inFIG. 10, the example tube-organizing apertures134are arranged in a portion of parallel apertures, although alternatives are possible.

Referring toFIG. 11, each tube-organizing aperture134depicted is configured to be a plurality of tube organizing grooves136, although alternatives are possible. The tube grooves136are defined by opposite recesses138. The grooves136can be varied in geometric shape and are not limited to defining circular receivers. The grooves136can also be alternately configured to engage a plurality of furcation tubes118rather than a single furcation tube118,FIG. 1.

The example fiber-organizing endcap arrangement130,FIG. 12, comprises an endcap peripheral sidewall132. The peripheral sidewall132defines an engagement recess137. The engagement recess137is oriented in the sidewall132to align with the engagement aperture arrangement126, when installed (FIG. 3). In general, a fastener163(FIG. 7) such as a set screw is placed in the engagement whole126. The fastener163contacts an edge of the peripheral sidewall132. The depth of the engagement137recess is of sufficient depth to reduce the endcap arrangement130from sliding or disengaging the endcap arrangement receiver125.

In the example depicted, the fiber-organizing cap arrangement130has a circular outer perimeter. Alternatives are possible. Also, in the example depicted, the recess extends completely around the perimeter, although alternatives are possible.

The example recess arrangement137depicted inFIG. 12and referenced above, will be particularly convenient when: the fanout member sidewall122comprises a single integral piece; and, the sidewall122is generally circular in peripheral definition. Alternate methods of connecting the end cap arrangement130to the sidewall arrangement120can be used, in other applications.

B. Dimensions of an Example Usable System

In the various figures depicted, example dimensions are indicated. These example dimensions are meant to indicate a workable system and components. A wide variety of alternate sizes and alternate dimensions can be used with principles characterized herein.

As depicted Dimension AQ represents the length of a representative slot156ain the slot arrangement156. In a variety of systems, this dimension may vary.

Referring toFIG. 7, the dimensions are as follows: Dimension AR=2.3 in (58.4 millimeters); AS=1.15 in. (29.2 millimeters); Dimension AT=0.35 in. (8.89 millimeters); Dimension AU=0.965 in. (24.51 millimeters); Dimension AU represents a maximum internal cross-dimension of the first section127. In a variety of systems, this dimension may vary. Dimension AV=0.91 in. (23.1 millimeters). Dimension AW=0.65 in. (16.5 millimeters). AX=0.484 in. (12.29 millimeters). The difference between Dimension AW and Dimension AX represents the length that the cable abutment member150radially extends to the conduit123. AY=6.4°. Dimension AZ=0.722 in. (18.34 millimeters). The difference between Dimension AN (FIG. 6) and Dimension AZ represents the length that the outward projection159outwardly extends from the tab154a. Typically, the further Dimension AZ represents a maximum internal cross-dimension of the second section128. In a variety of systems, this dimension may vary.

InFIG. 9, Dimension BD=1.125 in. (28.58 millimeters). Dimension BC represents the width of a representative slot in the slot arrangement156. In a variety of systems, this dimension may vary. Dimension BD represents the length of a representative tab (for example tab154a) in the tab arrangement154. Similarly, Dimension BD represents the distance that the cable abutment member150is inset from the cable receiver end122b. In a variety of systems, this dimension may vary.

III: Methods of Use: Generally

The operations described may be carried out or performed in any suitable order to achieve the desired results. Additionally, in certain applications, at least a portion of the operations may be carried out in together (i.e. at the same time).

Referring toFIGS. 3 and 3A, a typical example method initiates with a user operably engaging an optic fiber cable110(that includes a plurality of fibers115) with a cable fanout member120, for example by inserting the cable110into end122b. Typically, prior to inserting the cable110into a cable receiving end122b, a section of the protective sheath114is removed to uncover ends of the fibers115.

During engagement, the cable110is positioned into the conduit123of the cable fanout member120, until further insertion of the cable110is impeded by optional abutment member150. The fibers115, however, are allowed to progress through the conduit123to pass through the first section127.

After the cable is engaged by cable fanout member120, the plurality of fibers115traverse from the second section128of the cable fanout member120through the first section127. The fibers115are fanned out in the first section127, typically facilitated by the lack of a restriction due to removed sheath114in the first section and passing through the fiber organizing endcap130.

To facilitate passing the fibers115beyond the cable fanout member120, the fiber-organizing endcap arrangement130is assembled by engaging the furcation tubes118with grooves136, for example with adhesive. Typically, before the fiber organizing endcap arrangement130is put on the cable fanout member120, the fibers115are passed through the fiber organizing substructures116. Then, the fiber organizing endcap arrangement130is put into proper engagement with the receiver125of the cable fanout member.

Engaging the fanout member120with the fiber-organizing endcap arrangement130typically includes securing the fanout assembly to the fiber-organizing endcap arrangement using the fastener163. The fastener163secures the endcap arrangement130by passing through an engagement aperture arrangement126in the fiber-organizing endcap arrangement receiver125. The fastener163may comprise for example a set of fasteners163. The fasteners163further secure the endcap arrangement130by engaging a recess137in the peripheral sidewall132of the endcap arrangement130.

Typically, after the fiber-organizing endcap arrangement130is engaged and secured to the fiber-organizing endcap arrangement receiver125, the conduit region of the first section127is filled with an uncured (unhardened) fixation media160. A typical fixation media may comprise a flowable epoxy material. After insertion, the fixation media160is allowed to cure or harden. A protective covering140is can be applied to cover an exterior of the cable fanout assembly119.

Proper engagement of the cable110may involve additional processes. For example, once the cable110is properly inserted in the cable fanout member120, the member120can be secured to the cable110by applying a crimping force to the tab arrangement154, to provide an interference fit. When the force is applied, the cable grip arrangement158is pressed into the sheath114.

Proper engagement of the cable may be facilitated by additional layering of material (such as taper or other coverings) to the outer perimeter of the cable110, to inverse its size for interference. Referring toFIG. 3A, an enlarged schematic, fragmentary, cross-sectional view is provided depicting the cable fanout conduit arrangement100depicted inFIG. 1.FIG. 3Ais an example embodiment wherein layering is used on the exterior of the cable110.

In general, the increased outer perimeter of the cable110increases the contact (normal force) between the cable grip arrangement158and the cable110, producing a more effective gripping action by a biased cable grip arrangement158.

Force exerted on the tab arrangement154to bias the tab arrangement154on the cable110can be sustained by a clasping device such as a, band, hose clamp, a restrictive band, or a similarly functioning device positioned in region155c.

An optional protective layer can be used to cover portions of the cable fanout member120once installed.

IV: Some Additional Comments and Observations

A variety of materials can be used for the fanout member and end cap arrangement. The typical material will comprise a brass with an electroless nickel finish.

The flexible furcation tubes118can be constructed from a variety of materials. Typically plastic (polymeric) tubing can be used, but alternatives are possible.

Variations from the specific example shapes and configurations depicted are possible. The example depicted, however, will be typical and convenient for use when: cables having a generally circular outer shape and a plurality of circular fibers therein are used.