OPTICAL CABLE UTILITY MODEL

Abstract

An optical cable is provided, comprising an outer sheath (100), a main optical fiber (200), and at least two strength elements (300). The main optical fiber (200) and the strength elements (300) are located within the outer sheath (100). Furthermore, the main optical fiber (200) and the strength elements (300) have the same direction of extension. At least two strength elements (300) are separated on an outer periphery of the main optical fiber (200), and at least one strength element (300) is an auxiliary optical fiber. At least one strength element (300) on one side of the main optical fiber (200) is arranged as an auxiliary optical fiber. In this way, the auxiliary optical fiber serving as a strength element (300) can enhance the tensile strength of the entire optical cable, protecting the main optical fiber (200) from damage by external forces.Furthermore, the auxiliary optical fiber can also be configured to transmit an optical signal. If the main optical fiber (200) is damaged, the auxiliary optical fiber can be directly spliced ​​using fusion splicing without replacing the entire optical cable, and then used for signal transmission. This ensures the continued operation of the optical cable, simplifies maintenance, and reduces maintenance costs.

Description

optical cable

[0001] This application claims priority to the Chinese patent application filed with the State Intellectual Property Office of China on June 16, 2021, application number 202110665310.5, and application name "Optical Cable", all contents of which are incorporated by reference into this application. Technical Field

[0002] The embodiments of the present application relate to the technical field of home optical cables, and in particular to an optical cable. Background Art

[0003] In recent years, high-end users have placed higher demands on home networking, leading to an increasing demand for all-optical home networks. Fiber to the Room (FTTR) has emerged as a new market opportunity. In a FTTR solution, an optical network unit (ONU) connects to the user's home's main optical network terminal (ONT), delivering fiber to the home. Fiber cables then connect the main ONT to each room's information box (a miniaturized optical line terminal (OLT), ensuring a stable network point in each room, thus forming a complete all-optical home network scenario.

[0004] In traditional technology, the optical cable laid to each room includes a central optical fiber, a reinforcement member and a protective cover, wherein the central optical fiber and the reinforcement member are located in the protective cover to hide and protect the central optical fiber and the reinforcement member, prevent the central optical fiber and the reinforcement member from contacting the external environment, and extend the service life of the central optical fiber and the reinforcement member. The reinforcement member is used to increase the tensile strength of the optical cable and prevent the central optical fiber from being damaged by external forces.

[0005] However, when the central optical fiber in a traditional optical cable is damaged and fails, the entire section of the cable needs to be replaced, which is not only time-consuming and labor-intensive, but also increases maintenance costs.

[0006] Summary of the Invention

[0007] The embodiments of the present application provide an optical cable that can solve the problem that when a single-core optical fiber in a traditional optical cable is damaged, the entire section of the optical cable needs to be replaced, which makes maintenance time-consuming, labor-intensive and costly.

[0008] An embodiment of the present application provides an optical cable, comprising an outer sheath, a main optical fiber, and at least two strength members;

[0009] The main optical fiber and the reinforcement are both located inside the outer sheath, and the extension direction of the main optical fiber and the reinforcement is consistent.

[0010] At least two strength members are spaced apart and arranged on the periphery of the main optical fiber, and at least one strength member is an auxiliary optical fiber.

[0011] The optical cable provided in the embodiment of the present application is configured such that at least one reinforcement member on one side of the main optical fiber is provided as an auxiliary optical fiber. In this way, the auxiliary optical fiber serving as a reinforcement member can not only enhance the tensile strength of the entire optical cable to protect the main optical fiber from being damaged by external forces, but also the auxiliary optical fiber can be used to transmit optical signals at the same time. When the main optical fiber is damaged, there is no need to replace the entire optical cable, and the auxiliary optical fiber can be directly welded, etc., and the auxiliary optical fiber can be used for signal transmission. This not only ensures the normal use of the optical cable, but also makes the maintenance of the optical cable more convenient, while saving maintenance costs.

[0012] In an optional implementation, at least two reinforcement members are respectively provided on both sides of the main optical fiber along the first radial direction, and each reinforcement member is an auxiliary optical fiber.

[0013] By disposing at least two reinforcement members on either side of the first radial direction of the main optical fiber, the embodiments of the present application not only further enhance the tensile strength of the optical cable, but also, by configuring each reinforcement member as an auxiliary optical fiber, any auxiliary optical fiber can be used to transmit optical signals if the main optical fiber is damaged, making maintenance of the optical cable more convenient. Furthermore, the two auxiliary optical fibers located on the same side of the main optical fiber can function as a dual-core optical fiber, respectively used for transmitting and receiving optical signals, thereby improving the signal transmission reliability of the optical cable.

[0014] In an optional implementation, a plurality of strength members located on the same side of the main optical fiber are arranged along a first direction;

[0015] There is a certain angle between the first direction and the first radial direction.

[0016] Since the main optical fiber and the reinforcement members located on both sides of the main optical fiber occupy a certain space in the first radial direction, by arranging the multiple reinforcement members located on the same side of the main optical fiber along the first direction at a certain angle to the first radial direction, the space occupied by the multiple reinforcement members located on the same side of the main optical fiber in the first radial direction is saved, thereby making the structure of the optical cable of the embodiment of the present application more compact, thereby saving the space occupied by the laying of the optical cable, making it more suitable for use in indoor communication scenarios, and making installation more convenient.

[0017] In an optional implementation, the first direction is perpendicular to the first radial direction, further saving the space occupied by the reinforcement member in the optical cable along the first radial direction, thereby reducing the size of the optical cable in the first radial direction and further improving the structural compactness of the optical cable.

[0018] In an optional implementation, the optical cable further comprises a tight sleeve, which is provided on the outer surface of the main optical fiber;

[0019] The outer sheath and the tight sleeve are both made of transparent materials, and the materials used to make the outer sheath and the tight sleeve include any one or more of polyvinyl chloride, nylon and thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer rubber.

[0020] By placing a tight sleeve over the main optical fiber, the present embodiment not only increases the rigidity of the main optical fiber, ensuring that the main optical fiber will not be damaged during transportation and installation, but also, by making both the outer sheath and the tight sleeve from transparent materials, the transparency of the entire optical cable is improved, making the optical cable of the present embodiment more adaptable to different home decoration styles. Furthermore, by making both the outer sheath and the tight sleeve from the aforementioned flame-retardant material, the outer sheath's fire safety performance is ensured indoors while achieving a transparent concealing effect.

[0021] In an optional implementation, the optical cable further includes an adhesive layer and an anti-adhesion layer;

[0022] The adhesive layer is arranged on at least a portion of the surface of the outer sheath, and the anti-sticking layer is adhered to the surface of the adhesive layer.

[0023] In the embodiment of the present application, an adhesive layer is provided on at least a portion of the surface of the outer sheath, and an anti-sticking layer is provided on the surface of the adhesive layer. In this way, when laying the optical cable, the optical cable can be quickly and stably adhered to the wall directly through the adhesive layer after tearing off the anti-sticking layer, thereby improving the laying efficiency of the optical cable in the embodiment of the present application.

[0024] In an optional implementation, at least a portion of the outer surface of the outer sheath is configured as a plane, and the adhesive layer is provided on the plane.

[0025] In the embodiment of the present application, at least part of the outer surface of the outer sheath is set to a plane, so as to stably fix the adhesive layer on the surface of the outer sheath, and also enable the outer sheath to be stably fixed to the wall through the horizontal adhesive layer.

[0026] In one optional implementation, the adhesive layer is transparent double-sided tape, and the transparent double-sided tape and the outer sheath are integrally molded. This not only improves the production efficiency of the optical cable, but also makes the cable easier to install and adhere, thereby improving the efficiency of cable installation. In addition, the transparent double-sided tape further enhances the transparency of the optical cable, making it more adaptable to various home decoration styles.

[0027] In an optional implementation, a first groove and a second groove are formed on the outer sheath, and the first groove and the second groove are opened from one end to the other end of the outer sheath along the extension direction;

[0028] Wherein, the first groove is arranged in the second radial direction of the main optical fiber, and the second groove is arranged in the first radial direction of the main optical fiber;

[0029] The first radial direction and the second radial direction are perpendicular to each other.

[0030] In the embodiment of the present application, a first groove is provided on the outer sheath, and the first groove is provided in the second radial direction of the main optical fiber. Thus, when the main optical fiber needs to be connected, the outer sheath can be torn off from the groove on the outer sheath to quickly expose the main optical fiber, and the main optical fiber can be further connected to an information box, etc. At the same time, the optical cable can also be quickly divided into two left and right parts, thereby exposing the end of any auxiliary optical fiber on either side of the main optical fiber, and performing fusion splicing or connecting an FMC connector, thereby further improving the maintenance efficiency of the optical cable. At the same time, by providing a second groove on the outer sheath along the first radial direction of the main optical fiber, when the main optical fiber in the outer sheath is damaged, the protective cover can be quickly torn off from the second groove to quickly expose the auxiliary optical fiber, and the auxiliary optical fiber can be subjected to fusion splicing or other treatments, further improving the maintenance efficiency of the optical cable.

[0031] In an optional implementation, the width of the outer sheath in a first radial direction of the main optical fiber is 1.5 mm-2.0 mm, and the height of the outer sheath in a second radial direction of the main optical fiber is 1.2 mm-1.9 mm, wherein the first radial direction is perpendicular to the second radial direction.

[0032] By setting the width of the outer sheath in the first radial direction and the width in the second radial direction within the above-mentioned range, the installation size of the optical cable is reduced, making it more suitable for indoor communication scenarios. For example, it can enter each room through the door gap, facilitating indoor cross-room installation, thereby reducing the deployment time and cost of the optical cable. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0033] FIG1 is a schematic structural diagram of an optical cable provided in one embodiment of the present application;

[0034] FIG2 is a radial cross-sectional view of FIG1 ;

[0035] FIG3 is another schematic structural diagram of an optical cable provided in one embodiment of the present application;

[0036] FIG4 is a radial cross-sectional view of FIG3;

[0037] FIG5 is another structural diagram of an optical cable provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0038] FIG6 is a schematic diagram of another structure of an optical cable provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0039] FIG7 is a radial cross-sectional view of FIG6.

[0040] Description of reference numerals:

[0041] 100-outer sheath;

[0042] 110-first groove;

[0043] 120-second groove;

[0044] 200-main optical fiber;

[0045] 300-reinforcement;

[0046] 400-tight sleeve;

[0047] 500-adhesive layer;

[0048] 600-anti-stick layer. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0049] The terms used in the implementation section of this application are only used to explain the specific embodiments of this application and are not intended to limit this application.

[0050] At present, the optical cable laid between the main optical modem (ONT) in the home and the information box (OLT) in each room is used to transmit optical signals between the main optical modem and the information box, thereby sinking the optical network unit located upstream of the main optical modem to the household, ensuring that each room has a stable network point, thus realizing the fiber-to-the-room (FTTR) solution.

[0051] Typically, the optical cable connecting the main optical modem to the information boxes in each room consists of a core fiber and reinforcements located around the core fiber. The cable also includes an outer sheath, which encases the core fiber and reinforcements to isolate them from the outside world. The core fiber transmits optical signals, while the reinforcements increase the tensile strength of the entire cable, protecting it from damage caused by external forces.

[0052] In traditional technology, the reinforcement is mainly made of one or more materials selected from copper-plated steel wire, phosphated steel wire, galvanized steel wire, Kevlar Fiber Reinforced Plastic (KFRP) and fiber reinforced composite plastic (FRP) to ensure that the screening tension of the reinforcement is at least 150kpsi, thereby improving the tensile strength of the optical cable.

[0053] In practice, the central optical fiber will inevitably become damaged due to external forces, making it impossible to transmit optical signals. To ensure the normal operation of the entire network, the entire damaged optical cable between the main optical modem and the information box in the room must be replaced. This is not only time-consuming and labor-intensive, but also increases the maintenance cost of the optical cable.

[0054] Specifically, the cost of the entire section of optical cable is high. At the same time, the new optical cable needs to be reinstalled on the wall, and both ends of the central optical fiber of the new optical cable also need to be reconnected to the information box and the main optical modem. The whole process is time-consuming and labor-intensive, which greatly reduces the maintenance efficiency of the optical cable.

[0055] Based on this, an embodiment of the present application provides an optical cable, which sets part or all of the strength members as optical fibers. In this way, the optical fiber serving as a strength member can not only enhance the tensile strength of the entire optical cable to protect the central optical fiber, i.e., the main optical fiber, from being damaged by external forces, but also the optical fiber serving as a strength member can be used as an auxiliary optical fiber for transmitting optical signals. After the central main optical fiber is damaged, there is no need to replace the entire optical cable, and the auxiliary optical fiber can be directly welded, etc., that is, the auxiliary optical fiber is used for signal transmission, which not only ensures the normal use of the optical cable, but also makes the maintenance of the optical cable more convenient, while saving maintenance costs.

[0056] The specific structure of the optical cable according to the embodiment of the present application is described in detail below.

[0057] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the structure of an optical cable provided in one embodiment of the present application, and Figure 2 is a radial cross-sectional view of Figure 1. Referring to Figures 1 and 2, an optical cable is provided in one embodiment of the present application, comprising an outer sheath 100, a main optical fiber 200, and at least two strength members 300. The main optical fiber 200 and the strength members 300 are both located within the outer sheath 100, and the main optical fiber 200 and the strength members 300 extend in the same direction.

[0058] In the embodiments of the present application, the main optical fiber 200 is the primary component of the optical cable, used to transmit optical signals. For example, after the optical cable is connected to the main optical modem in a home and the information box in each room, the main optical fiber 200 in the optical cable transmits signals between the main optical modem and the information box. The screening tension of the main optical fiber 200 can be 100 kpsi or even less than 100 kpsi, and the embodiments of the present application do not specifically limit the screening tension of the main optical fiber 200.

[0059] In a specific configuration, the main optical fiber 200 can be a single-core optical fiber or a multi-core optical fiber. The following description of the optical cable structure specifically uses a single-core optical fiber as an example. In addition, the main optical fiber 200 can be a single-mode optical fiber, for example, the main optical fiber 200 can be a single-mode optical fiber of any of the types G.652D, G.657A2, and B3. The main optical fiber 200 can also be a multimode optical fiber, for example, the main optical fiber 200 can be a multimode optical fiber of any of the types OM2, OM3, and OM4.

[0060] In actual applications, the main optical fiber 200 and the reinforcement member 300 are wrapped in the outer sheath 100 to isolate the main components of the optical cable, the main optical fiber 200 and the reinforcement member 300, from the external environment, thereby protecting the main optical fiber 200 and preventing the main optical fiber 200 from being damaged by collision with the external environment during transportation or installation.

[0061] Generally, before use, the outer sheath 100 of the optical cable is wrapped around the entire extension direction of the main optical fiber 200 and the strength member 300. That is, the outer sheath 100 completely encloses the main optical fiber 200 and the strength member 300. When the optical cable is installed, the outer sheath 100 is partially removed from the outer periphery of the end of the main optical fiber 200 to expose the end of the main optical fiber 200. The main optical fiber 200 is then fusion-spliced ​​or connected to an FMC connector, and then connected to the information box and the main optical modem.

[0062] During the actual production process, the two ends of the main optical fiber 200 in the optical cable can also be directly prefabricated with connectors. In this way, when the optical cable is installed, the outer sheath 100 around the end of the main optical fiber 200 is partially torn off to expose the prefabricated connector at the end of the main optical fiber 200, and finally the prefabricated connector is connected to an information box, etc.

[0063] 2 , the embodiment of the present application has at least two reinforcement members 300 spaced apart around the periphery of the main optical fiber 200. The reinforcement members 300 are arranged around the periphery of the main optical fiber 200 to improve the tensile strength of the entire optical cable and prevent the main optical fiber 200 from being damaged by external forces.

[0064] For example, as shown in Figure 2, two reinforcement members 300 can be arranged at intervals on the periphery of the main optical fiber 200, and the two reinforcement members 300 can be respectively arranged on both sides of the main optical fiber 200 along the first radial direction (as shown in the x direction in Figure 2) to ensure that the two reinforcement members 300 play a protective role on the structure of the main optical fiber 200.

[0065] It should be noted that the first radial direction, i.e., the x-direction, refers to the extension direction of the first diameter of the main optical fiber 200, wherein the first diameter can be the diameter of the main optical fiber 200 in any direction. The embodiment of the present application specifically uses the horizontal direction as the first radial direction, i.e., the x-direction, for example. It should be emphasized here that the embodiment of the present application uses the main optical fiber 200 as an example for structural description as a single-core optical fiber, and the radial direction of the main optical fiber 200 refers to the radial direction of the single-core optical fiber. When the main optical fiber 200 is a multi-core optical fiber, the radial direction of the main optical fiber 200 refers to the radial direction of the cylindrical structure formed by the multi-core optical fibers.

[0066] Then, it can be understood that the two reinforcement members 300 located on both sides of the main optical fiber 200 along the first radial direction, i.e., the x direction, have their connection line passing through the central axis of the main optical fiber 200, i.e., the two reinforcement members 300 are symmetrical relative to the center of the main optical fiber 200.

[0067] Of course, in other examples, the two reinforcement members 300 may also be disposed on both sides of the main optical fiber 200 along other directions parallel to the first radial direction, i.e., the x-direction. In other words, the line connecting the two reinforcement members 300 does not pass through the central axis of the main optical fiber 200. In other words, the two reinforcement members 300 are only axisymmetric with respect to the central axis of the main optical fiber 200, but not with respect to the center of the main optical fiber 200. The present embodiment does not limit the arrangement of the reinforcement members 300.

[0068] In the above example, the main optical fiber 200 can be arranged at the center of the outer sheath 100, and the two strength members 300 are respectively arranged on the periphery of the main optical fiber 200, and each strength member 300 can be equidistant from the central axis of the main optical fiber 200.

[0069] Figure 3 is another schematic diagram of the structure of an optical cable provided in one embodiment of the present application, and Figure 4 is a radial cross-sectional view of Figure 3. Referring to Figures 3 and 4, in a specific configuration, the number of strength members 300 can be three or more. For example, the main optical fiber 200 is positioned at the center of the outer sheath 100, and three strength members 300 are evenly distributed around the central axis of the main optical fiber 200 and on the periphery of the main optical fiber 200.

[0070] For another example, at least four strength members 300 may be disposed on the periphery of the main optical fiber 200, and the four strength members 300 may be evenly distributed around the periphery of the main optical fiber 200. Of course, in some examples, at least two strength members 300 may be disposed on both sides of the main optical fiber 200 along the first radial direction, i.e., the x-direction. In other words, at least two strength members 300 are disposed on either side of the main optical fiber 200 along the first radial direction, i.e., the x-direction, to further enhance the tensile strength of the optical cable of the present embodiment. For example, two or more strength members 300 may be disposed on both sides of the main optical fiber 200 along the first radial direction.

[0071] As shown in Figure 4 , multiple reinforcement members 300 located on the same side of the main optical fiber 200 are arranged along a first direction (indicated by direction a in Figure 4 ). This first direction can be any direction that forms a certain angle with the first radial direction, i.e., the x-direction. For example, two reinforcement members 300 are provided on both sides of the main optical fiber 200 along the first radial direction, i.e., the x-direction. The two reinforcement members 300 located on the same side are arranged along the first direction, i.e., direction a. The first direction, i.e., direction a, forms a certain angle with the first radial direction, i.e., the x-direction. For example, the angle between the first direction, i.e., direction a, and the first radial direction, i.e., direction x, can be any suitable angle value, such as 30°, 45°, or 60°.

[0072] Continuing with reference to FIG4 , since the main optical fiber 200 and the reinforcement members 300 located on both sides of the main optical fiber 200 occupy a certain space in the first radial direction, i.e., the x-direction, the multiple reinforcement members 300 located on the same side of the main optical fiber 200 are arranged along the first direction, i.e., the a-direction, which is at a certain angle to the first radial direction, i.e., the x-direction, thereby saving the space occupied by the multiple reinforcement members 300 located on the same side of the main optical fiber 200 in the first radial direction, i.e., the x-direction. This makes the structure of the optical cable of the embodiment of the present application more compact, thereby saving the space occupied by the laying of the optical cable, making it more suitable for use in indoor communication scenarios, and making installation more convenient.

[0073] In the specific setting, the arrangement direction of the two strength members 300 located on the same side of the main optical fiber 200 can be perpendicular to the first radial direction, i.e., the x-direction. That is to say, the two strength members 300 located on the same side of the main optical fiber 200 can be arranged along the first direction, i.e., the a-direction, which is perpendicular to the first radial direction, i.e., the x-direction, further saving the space occupied by the strength members 300 in the optical cable along the first radial direction, i.e., the x-direction, thereby reducing the size of the optical cable in the first radial direction, i.e., the x-direction, and further improving the structural compactness of the optical cable.

[0074] For example, as shown in FIG4 , the two reinforcement members 300 located on the same side of the main optical fiber 200 are arranged in a direction parallel to the second radial direction of the main optical fiber 200 (as shown in the y direction in FIG4 ), and illustratively, the two reinforcement members 300 on the same side are respectively located on the upper and lower sides of the axial section of the main optical fiber 200 along the first radial direction.

[0075] It should be noted that the second radial direction, i.e., the y-direction, refers to the extending direction of the second diameter of the main optical fiber 200, wherein the second diameter may be the diameter of the main optical fiber 200 in a direction perpendicular to the first radial direction. The embodiments of the present application are specifically described using the vertical direction as the second radial direction, i.e., the y-direction, as an example.

[0076] It should be noted that in order to reduce the size of the optical cable in the first direction, i.e., direction a, the multiple strength members 300 located on the same side of the main optical fiber 200 can be arranged in contact with each other. In other words, the multiple strength members 300 arranged along the first direction, i.e., direction a, can be in contact with each other. This arrangement not only saves the arrangement size of the strength members 300 in the first direction, i.e., direction a, of the optical fiber, thereby reducing the arrangement size of the optical cable in the first direction, i.e., direction a, but also the mutually contacting strength members 300 can support each other, thereby enhancing the structural strength of each strength member 300. Referring to FIG4 , for example, the multiple strength members 300 located on the same side of the main optical fiber 200 are stacked in a direction parallel to the y-direction, effectively reducing the size occupied by the multiple strength members 300 arranged on the same side in a direction perpendicular to the first radial direction, i.e., the x-direction.

[0077] 4 , in specific settings, the width of the outer sheath 100 in the first radial direction of the main optical fiber 200, i.e., the x-direction, of the embodiment of the present application can be set to 1.5 mm to 2.0 mm. For example, the width of the outer sheath 100 in the first radial direction of the main optical fiber 200, i.e., the x-direction, can be 1.5 mm, 1.6 mm, 1.7 mm, 1.8 mm, 1.9 mm, or 2.0 mm, or other suitable values. The embodiment of the present application does not limit the width of the outer sheath 100 in the first radial direction of the main optical fiber 200, i.e., the x-direction, and can be adjusted according to actual needs.

[0078] At the same time, the height of the outer sheath 100 in the second radial direction of the main optical fiber 200, i.e., the y direction, is 1.2 mm to 1.9 mm. For example, the height of the outer sheath 100 in the second radial direction of the main optical fiber 200, i.e., the y direction, can be 1.2 mm, 1.4 mm, 1.6 mm, 1.8 mm, or 1.9 mm or other appropriate values. The embodiment of the present application does not limit the width of the outer sheath 100 in the second radial direction of the main optical fiber 200, i.e., the y direction, and can be adjusted according to actual needs.

[0079] The second radial direction, i.e., the y direction, is perpendicular to the first radial direction, i.e., the x direction. For example, when the radial cross-section of the outer sheath 100 is a square or rectangular structure, the first radial direction, i.e., the x direction, can be the width direction of the radial cross-section of the outer sheath 100, and the second radial direction, i.e., the y direction, can be the height direction of the radial cross-section of the outer sheath 100. In this way, the width of the outer sheath 100 can be set within a numerical range of 1.5 mm to 2.0 mm, and the height of the outer sheath 100 can be set within a numerical range of 1.2 mm to 1.9 mm, and can be adjusted according to actual needs.

[0080] It should be noted here that the numerical values ​​and numerical ranges involved in the embodiments of the present application are approximate values. Due to the influence of the manufacturing process, there may be a certain range of errors. Those skilled in the art may consider this part of the error to be negligible.

[0081] By setting the width of the outer sheath 100 in the first radial direction, i.e., the x-direction, and the width in the second radial direction, i.e., the y-direction, within the above-mentioned range, the size occupied by the optical cable during installation is reduced, making it more suitable for use in indoor communication scenarios. For example, it can enter each room through a door gap, facilitating indoor cross-room installation, thereby reducing the deployment time and cost of the optical cable.

[0082] In the embodiments of the present application, at least one strength member 300 is an auxiliary optical fiber. For example, as shown in Figure 2 , when a strength member 300 is provided on each side of a main optical fiber 200 along a first radial direction, i.e., the x-direction, one of the two strength members 300 located on either side of the main optical fiber 200 is an auxiliary optical fiber. For example, the strength member 300 located on the left side of the main optical fiber 200 is provided as an auxiliary optical fiber. Of course, both strength members 300 provided on either side of the main optical fiber 200 along the first radial direction, i.e., the x-direction, can be auxiliary optical fibers.

[0083] It should be noted that in the embodiments of this application, the main optical fiber 200 refers to the primary optical fiber; that is, an optical cable generally transmits optical signals through the main optical fiber 200. The auxiliary optical fiber is a name distinguished from the main optical fiber 200 and specifically refers to an optical fiber that assists the main optical fiber 200. Specifically, at least one reinforcement member 300 is an optical fiber that serves as an auxiliary optical fiber to the main optical fiber 200 and can also be used for optical signal transmission. For example, if the main optical fiber 200 is damaged due to external forces, the auxiliary optical fiber can be used to transmit signals between the main optical modem and the information box.

[0084] The auxiliary optical fiber may be a single-core optical fiber or a multi-core optical fiber. Furthermore, the auxiliary optical fiber may be a single-mode optical fiber, for example, a single-mode optical fiber of any of G.652D, G.657A2, and B3. The auxiliary optical fiber may also be a multimode optical fiber, for example, a multimode optical fiber of any of OM2, OM3, and OM4.

[0085] When some strength members 300 are configured as auxiliary optical fibers, other strength members 300 not made of auxiliary optical fibers can be made of one or more materials selected from copper-plated steel wire, phosphated steel wire, galvanized steel wire, Kevlar Fiber Reinforced Plastic (KFRP) and fiber reinforced composite plastic (FRP) to ensure that the screening tension of the strength members 300 is at least 150 kpsi, thereby improving the tensile strength of the optical cable.

[0086] As an optional implementation method, the reinforcement members 300 made of other non-auxiliary optical fibers can be made of FRP material. In this way, the reinforcement members 300 made of non-auxiliary optical fibers are made of transparent material. At the same time, because the material of the optical fiber is also transparent, the main optical fiber 200, the auxiliary optical fiber and the reinforcement members 300 of the non-auxiliary optical fiber are all made of transparent materials, which improves the invisible effect of the optical cable of the embodiment of the present application and enables the optical cable to adapt to home decoration styles of different styles and colors.

[0087] In addition, as the auxiliary optical fiber of the strength member 300, an optical fiber with a screening tension of 150 kpsi or more can be used as the auxiliary optical fiber to further improve the tensile strength of the optical cable.

[0088] It is understandable that when some of the strength members 300 are set as auxiliary optical fibers, other non-auxiliary optical fiber strength members 300 also play a role in improving the tensile strength of the optical cable, thereby protecting both the main optical fiber 200 and the auxiliary optical fiber, ensuring that the main optical fiber 200 and the auxiliary optical fiber are not damaged, and extending the service life of the optical cable.

[0089] The following is one installation process of the optical cable according to the embodiment of the present application.

[0090] First, prepare a section of optical cable according to an embodiment of the present application, and then lay the optical cable on the wall between the main optical modem and the information box in the room. Then, tear off the outer sheath 100 at both ends of the optical cable and expose both ends of the main optical fiber 200. Then, weld the ends of the main optical fiber 200 to the optical fibers on the main optical modem and the information box respectively. In this way, the main optical fiber 200 serves as the main optical signal transmission medium, connected between the main optical modem and the information box to transmit signals between the main optical modem and the information box.

[0091] When the main optical fiber 200 is damaged, the outer sheath 100 is torn off to expose both ends of any auxiliary optical fiber, and then the ends of the auxiliary optical fiber are fused with the optical fibers on the main optical modem and the information box respectively. At this time, the auxiliary optical fiber serves as the transmission medium of the optical signal and is connected between the main optical modem and the information box to transmit the signal between the main optical modem and the information box.

[0092] The optical cable provided in the embodiment of the present application is configured such that at least one reinforcement member 300 on one side of the main optical fiber 200 is provided as an auxiliary optical fiber. In this way, the auxiliary optical fiber serving as the reinforcement member 300 can not only enhance the tensile strength of the entire optical cable to protect the main optical fiber 200 from being damaged by external forces, but also the auxiliary optical fiber can be used to transmit optical signals at the same time. When the main optical fiber 200 is damaged, there is no need to replace the entire optical cable, and the auxiliary optical fiber can be directly welded, etc., and the auxiliary optical fiber can be used for signal transmission. This not only ensures the normal use of the optical cable, but also makes the maintenance of the optical cable more convenient, while saving maintenance costs.

[0093] In a specific configuration, each strength member 300 can serve as an auxiliary optical fiber. For example, as shown in FIG4 , two strength members 300 are positioned on either side of the main optical fiber 200 in the first radial direction, i.e., the x-direction. These four strength members 300 can all serve as auxiliary optical fibers. This allows any of the auxiliary optical fibers to transmit optical signals if the main optical fiber 200 is damaged, making optical cable maintenance more convenient. Furthermore, the two auxiliary optical fibers located on the same side of the main optical fiber 200 can function as a dual-core optical fiber, respectively used for transmitting and receiving optical signals, thereby improving the signal transmission reliability of the optical cable.

[0094] In the optical cable of the embodiment of the present application, the main optical fiber 200 can be a bare optical fiber to simplify the structure of the optical cable, thereby improving the production efficiency of the optical cable. In addition, the optical fiber itself is a transparent structure, which can also improve the transparency of the optical cable and enhance the aesthetics of the installation of the optical cable.

[0095] FIG5 is another schematic diagram of the structure of an optical cable provided by an embodiment of the present application. Referring to FIG5 , in some examples, the optical cable may further include a tight sleeve 400, which is disposed over the outer surface of the main optical fiber 200. For example, when the main optical fiber 200 is a single-core optical fiber, the tight sleeve 400 is disposed over the outer surface of the single-core optical fiber to protect the single-core optical fiber.

[0096] It can be understood that the tight sleeve 400 is sleeved on the entire outer surface of the main optical fiber 200 along the extension direction to completely wrap the main optical fiber 200. In this way, the rigidity of the main optical fiber 200 is improved, thereby ensuring that the main optical fiber 200 will not be damaged during transportation and installation.

[0097] In specific configurations, the outer sheath 100 and the tight sleeve 400 can both be made of transparent materials, thereby increasing the transparency of the entire optical cable and making the optical cable of this embodiment more adaptable to different home decoration styles. In addition, the combination of the reinforcement member 300 made of FRP material or optical fiber maximizes the transparent and invisible effect of the entire optical cable, further enhancing the wide adaptability of the optical cable of this embodiment.

[0098] The material of at least one of the outer sheath 100 and the tight sleeve 400 may include, but is not limited to, any one or more transparent materials selected from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), nylon, and thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPU). For example, the outer sheath 100 and the tight sleeve 400 may both be made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), nylon, or thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPU).

[0099] It is worth mentioning that the above-mentioned materials for the outer sheath 100 and the tight sleeve 400 are all flame retardant materials. By making the outer sheath 100 and the tight sleeve 400 of the above-mentioned flame retardant materials, while achieving a transparent hiding effect, the fire safety performance of the outer sheath 100 in the room is ensured.

[0100] When laying the optical cable of the embodiment of the present application, it can be directly adhered to the wall between the main optical modem and the information box by means of adhesive tape, or it can be fixed to the wall by means of a fixed line clip.

[0101] 4 , in order to further improve the laying efficiency of the optical cable, the optical cable of the embodiment of the present application further includes an adhesive layer 500 and an anti-adhesion layer 600. The adhesive layer 500 is provided on at least a portion of the surface of the outer sheath 100, and the anti-adhesion layer 600 is bonded to the surface of the adhesive layer 500.

[0102] It can be understood that the adhesive layer 500 is provided on the surface of the outer sheath 100 facing the wall, so that the outer sheath 100 is stably fixed on the wall through the adhesive layer 500 .

[0103] Among them, when the adhesive layer 500 is specifically set, it can extend from one end of the outer sheath 100 to the other end along the extension direction, that is, the extension length of the adhesive layer 500 is consistent with the extension length of the outer sheath 100. In this way, it can be ensured that any point along the extension direction of the outer sheath 100 is bonded to the wall, so as to improve the stability of the optical cable.

[0104] Of course, in other examples, the extension length of the adhesive layer 500 may be smaller than the extension length of the outer sheath 100, that is, the adhesive layer 500 is provided on part of the surface of the outer sheath 100 along the extension direction. For example, the outer sheath 100 may be provided with multiple adhesive layers 500 at intervals along the extension direction. In this way, the outer sheath 100 is bonded to the wall at intervals along the extension direction, thereby not only ensuring that the outer sheath 100 is stably fixed on the wall, but also saving the manufacturing materials of the optical cable in the embodiment of the present application, thereby reducing the manufacturing cost of the optical cable.

[0105] In addition, the anti-adhesion layer 600 is adhered to the surface of the adhesive layer 500 before the optical cable is installed, so as to prevent the adhesive surface of the adhesive layer 500 from being contaminated by the external environment and thus reducing the adhesiveness.

[0106] When the optical cable of the embodiment of the present application is installed, the anti-sticking layer 600 on the surface of the adhesive layer 500 is first torn off, and then the outer sheath 100 of the optical cable is firmly adhered to the planned wall through the adhesive layer 500.

[0107] In the embodiment of the present application, an adhesive layer 500 is provided on at least a portion of the surface of the outer sheath 100, and an anti-sticking layer 600 is provided on the surface of the adhesive layer 500. In this way, when laying the optical cable, the optical cable can be quickly and stably adhered to the wall directly through the adhesive layer 500 after tearing off the anti-sticking layer 600, thereby improving the laying efficiency of the optical cable of the embodiment of the present application and also improving the laying reliability of the optical cable of the embodiment of the present application.

[0108] The adhesive layer 500 of the embodiment of the present application can be configured as an integral piece with the outer sheath 100. For example, the outer sheath 100 and the adhesive layer 500 can be integrally two-color injection molded, which makes the production of the optical cable more convenient and quick.

[0109] Continuing with FIG4 , to improve the bonding reliability of the optical cable, at least a portion of the outer surface of the outer sheath 100 can be configured as a plane, with the adhesive layer 500 disposed on this plane. For example, one surface of the outer sheath 100 can be configured as a plane, with the adhesive layer 500 disposed on this plane, so that the adhesive layer 500 can be stably fixed to the surface of the outer sheath 100. This also allows the outer sheath 100 to be stably fixed to the wall via the horizontal adhesive layer 500.

[0110] For example, one of the two surfaces of the outer sheath 100 that are opposite each other along the second radial direction of the main optical fiber 200, i.e., the y-direction, is configured as a planar structure, for example, the lower surface. The adhesive layer 500 is disposed on the lower surface of the outer sheath 100, and the anti-adhesion layer 600 is adhered to the adhesive surface of the adhesive layer 500. To secure the optical cable, the anti-adhesion layer 600 can be directly torn off, and then the lower surface of the outer sheath 100 is adhered to the wall, thereby achieving efficient and stable installation of the optical cable.

[0111] In a specific implementation, the adhesive layer 500 can be an adhesive applied to the surface of the outer jacket 100. The adhesive can be made of any one or more of a thermosetting resin such as epoxy resin, phenolic resin, urea-formaldehyde resin, or polyurethane, a thermoplastic resin such as polyvinyl acetal or perchlorethylene resin, or a synthetic rubber such as chloroprene rubber or nitrile rubber. For example, the adhesive layer 500 can be made of epoxy resin, polyvinyl acetal, or chloroprene rubber.

[0112] In some examples, the adhesive layer 500 can also be set as a transparent double-sided tape, and the transparent double-sided tape and the outer sheath 100 are an integrally molded one-piece. For example, the outer sheath 100 and the transparent double-sided tape are integrally molded by two-color injection molding to improve the production efficiency of the optical cable.

[0113] In addition, by setting the adhesive layer 500 as double-sided tape, the adhesive layer 500 is easier to form on the outer sheath 100, and the optical cable is easier to construct and paste. For example, when laying the optical cable, the one-piece optical cable can be directly adhered to the wall, without having to adhere double-sided tape on the outer sheath 100 before fixing the optical cable to the wall, and then adhering the outer sheath 100 to the wall with the double-sided tape, thereby improving the laying efficiency of the optical cable.

[0114] At the same time, by setting the adhesive layer 500 as a transparent double-sided tape, the transparency of the optical cable is further improved, making it more suitable for various home decoration styles.

[0115] It should be noted that the anti-sticking layer 600 on the outer surface of the adhesive layer 500 can be made of non-transparent material.

[0116] Based on the above content, it can be seen that when the optical cable is installed, it is necessary to tear off part of the outer sheath 100 around the end of the main optical fiber 200 to expose the end of the main optical fiber 200, and to weld the main optical fiber 200 or connect the FMC connector, and then connect it to the information box and the main optical modem, etc. In this way, the main optical fiber 200 can realize the optical signal transmission between the information box and the main optical modem.

[0117] Figure 6 is another schematic diagram of the structure of an optical cable provided in one embodiment of the present application, and Figure 7 is a radial cross-sectional view of Figure 6. Referring to Figures 6 and 7, to facilitate tearing of the outer sheath 100, the embodiment of the present application may form a first groove 110 on the outer sheath 100. The first groove 110 is arranged in the second radial direction of the main optical fiber 200, i.e., the y-direction. The first groove 110 extends from one end of the outer sheath 100 to the other end along the extension direction. In other words, the first groove 110 extends along the entire extension direction of the outer sheath 100.

[0118] It can be understood that since the first groove 110 has a certain width, part of the first groove 110 is usually located in the second radial direction of the main optical fiber 200, that is, the y-direction. That is to say, part of the first groove 110 is located on the plane where the axial section of the main optical fiber 200 along the second radial direction, that is, the y-direction is located.

[0119] As shown in FIG7 , by arranging the first groove 110 in the second radial direction of the main optical fiber 200, i.e., the y-direction, when installing the optical cable, the outer jacket 100 can be torn off from the first groove 110 to quickly expose the end of the main optical fiber 200, and further fusion splice the main optical fiber 200 to an information box, etc. Furthermore, by aligning the extension length of the first groove 110 with the extension length of the outer jacket 100, it is easier to quickly tear off the outer jacket 110 from the first groove 110, further improving the installation efficiency of the optical cable.

[0120] In addition, by providing a first groove 110 on the outer sheath 100, and providing the first groove 110 in the second radial direction of the main optical fiber 200, i.e., the y direction, when the main optical fiber 200 in the outer sheath 100 is damaged, the outer sheath 100 can be torn off from the groove on the outer sheath 100 to quickly separate the optical cable into two left and right parts, thereby conveniently and quickly exposing the end of any auxiliary optical fiber on both sides of the main optical fiber 200, and performing fusion splicing or connecting an FMC connector to the auxiliary optical fiber end, thereby further improving the maintenance efficiency of the optical cable.

[0121] The cross-sectional shape of the first groove 110 along the radial direction of the main optical fiber 200 can be any shape, such as an inverted trapezoid, a rectangle, a square, or a triangle. For example, as shown in FIG7 , the cross-sectional shape of the first groove 110 along the radial direction of the main optical fiber 200 is a triangle, wherein the vertex of the triangle is located at the bottom of the first groove 110. Thus, the outer jacket 100 is more easily torn off from the bottom of the first groove 110.

[0122] In the above example, the bottom of the first groove 110 with a triangular cross-section can be located just in the second radial direction of the main optical fiber 200, i.e., the y direction. In this way, the outer sheath 100 can be quickly torn off through the bottom of the first groove 110 to the surface of the main optical fiber 200.

[0123] It should be noted that the groove bottom of the first groove 110 specifically refers to the groove wall opposite to the opening of the first groove 110 .

[0124] In the specific setting, the number of the first grooves 110 can be two, and the two first grooves 110 are respectively arranged on both sides of the main optical fiber 200 along the second radial direction, i.e., the y direction. For example, as shown in Figure 6, a first groove 110 is respectively arranged on the upper and lower sides of the main optical fiber 200 along the second radial direction, i.e., the y direction. This can reduce the structural strength of the connection between the two first grooves 110, making it easier to tear off the outer sheath 100 from the first groove 110.

[0125] 6 and 7 , in order to further improve the installation efficiency of the auxiliary optical fiber, an embodiment of the present application may provide a second groove 120 on the outer sheath 100, and the second groove 120 is provided in the first radial direction of the main optical fiber 200, i.e., the x-direction. At the same time, the second groove 120 is opened from one end of the outer sheath 100 to the other end along the extension direction. In other words, the second groove 120 is opened in the entire extension direction of the outer sheath 100.

[0126] Similar to the first groove 110, since the second groove 120 has a certain width, a portion of the second groove 120 is usually located in the first radial direction of the main optical fiber 200, i.e., the x-direction. In other words, a portion of the second groove 120 is located on the plane where the axial section of the main optical fiber 200 along the first radial direction, i.e., the x-direction, is located.

[0127] 7 , the first groove 110 is provided on the upper or lower surface of the outer sheath 100 , and the second groove 120 is provided on the left or right surface of the outer sheath 100 .

[0128] Exemplarily, the second groove 120 is arranged on the left surface of the outer sheath 100, that is, the second groove 120 is located on the left side of the main optical fiber 200 along the first radial direction, that is, the x-direction. In this way, when one of the strength members 300 on the left side of the main optical fiber 200 is set as an auxiliary optical fiber, and when the main optical fiber 200 is damaged, the left side surface of the outer sheath 100 can be quickly torn through the second groove 120, so that the end of the auxiliary optical fiber can be quickly exposed to the outside, and subsequent welding, etc. can be carried out.

[0129] In other examples, two second grooves 120 can also be provided on the outer sheath 100, and the two second grooves 120 are respectively provided on both sides of the main optical fiber 200 along the first radial direction, i.e., the x direction. For example, second grooves 120 are provided on the left and right side surfaces of the outer sheath 100. In this way, when there are auxiliary optical fibers in the reinforcement members 300 on the left and right sides of the main optical fiber 200, when the main optical fiber 200 is damaged, the outer sheath 100 can be quickly torn open through any one of the second grooves 120, thereby quickly exposing the end of the corresponding auxiliary optical fiber to the outside, and performing subsequent welding, etc.

[0130] 7 , optionally, when two mutually contacting reinforcement members 300 are provided on both sides of the main optical fiber 200 along the first radial direction, i.e., the x-direction, and the two reinforcement members 300 on each side are respectively located on the upper and lower sides of the axial cross-section of the main optical fiber 200 along the first radial direction, i.e., the x-direction, and at the same time, each reinforcement member 300 is set as an auxiliary optical fiber, then by tearing open the outer sheath 100 through the second groove 120 provided in the first radial direction, i.e., the x-direction of the main optical fiber 200, any one of the two auxiliary optical fibers on the same side can be quickly exposed and fused, thereby improving the flexibility in selecting the auxiliary optical fibers.

[0131] Based on the above, it can be seen that by setting the second groove 120 in the outer sheath 100 along the first radial direction of the main optical fiber 200, i.e., the x-direction, when the main optical fiber 200 in the outer sheath 100 is damaged, the protective sheath 100 can be quickly torn off from the second groove 120 to quickly expose the auxiliary optical fiber, and the auxiliary optical fiber can be fused and processed, thereby further improving the maintenance efficiency of the optical cable.

[0132] Like the first groove 110, the cross-sectional shape of the second groove 120 in the first radial direction of the main optical fiber 200, i.e., the x-direction, can be any shape, such as an inverted trapezoid, a rectangle, a square, or a triangle. For example, as shown in FIG7 , the cross-sectional shape of the second groove 120 in the first radial direction of the main optical fiber 200, i.e., the x-direction, is triangular, wherein the vertex of the triangle is located at the bottom of the second groove 120. This makes it easier to tear the outer jacket 100 from the bottom of the second groove 120.

[0133] It should be noted that the groove bottom of the second groove 120 specifically refers to the groove wall opposite to the opening of the second groove 120 .

[0134] 7 , in the above example, the bottom of the second groove 120 having a triangular cross-sectional shape may be located just in the first radial direction of the main optical fiber 200, i.e., the x-direction. In this way, the outer sheath 100 may be quickly torn open to a position between the upper and lower reinforcement members 300 through the bottom of the second groove 120, thereby quickly exposing any one of the two reinforcement members 300 located on the same side of the main optical fiber 200.

[0135] In the description of the embodiments of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified or limited, the terms "mounted," "connected," and "connected" should be understood in a broad sense. For example, they may refer to a fixed connection, an indirect connection via an intermediate medium, internal communication between two components, or an interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art will understand the specific meanings of these terms in the embodiments of this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0136] The terms "first", "second", "third", "fourth", etc. (if any) in the description and claims of the embodiments of this application and the above-mentioned drawings are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence.

Claims

1. An optical cable, characterized in that: It includes an outer sheath, a main optical fiber and at least two reinforcement members; The main optical fiber and the reinforcement are both located inside the outer sheath, and the main optical fiber and the reinforcement extend in the same direction. At least two of the strength members are spaced apart and arranged on the periphery of the main optical fiber, and at least one of the strength members is an auxiliary optical fiber.

2. The optical cable according to claim 1, wherein At least two reinforcement members are respectively provided on both sides of the main optical fiber along the first radial direction, and each reinforcement member is an auxiliary optical fiber.

3. The optical cable according to claim 2, wherein: The plurality of reinforcement members located on the same side of the main optical fiber are arranged along a first direction; There is a certain angle between the first direction and the first radial direction.

4. The optical cable according to claim 3, wherein The first direction and the first radial direction are perpendicular to each other.

5. The optical cable according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that: The optical cable further comprises a tight sleeve, which is arranged on the outer surface of the main optical fiber; The outer sheath and the tight sleeve are both made of transparent materials, and the materials used to make the outer sheath and the tight sleeve include any one or more of polyvinyl chloride, nylon and thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer rubber.

6. The optical cable according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that: The optical cable further comprises an adhesive layer and an anti-sticking layer; The adhesive layer is arranged on at least a portion of the surface of the outer sheath, and the anti-sticking layer is adhered to the surface of the adhesive layer.

7. The optical cable according to claim 6, wherein: At least a portion of the outer surface of the outer sheath is configured as a plane, and the adhesive layer is disposed on the plane.

8. The optical cable according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that: The adhesive layer is a transparent double-sided tape, and the transparent double-sided tape and the outer sheath are an integrally formed one-piece.

9. The optical cable according to any one of claims 4 to 8, characterized in that: A first groove and a second groove are formed on the outer sheath, wherein the first groove and the second groove are opened from one end to the other end of the outer sheath along the extension direction; Wherein, the first groove is arranged in the second radial direction of the main optical fiber, and the second groove is arranged in the first radial direction of the main optical fiber; The first radial direction and the second radial direction are perpendicular to each other.

10. The optical cable according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that: The width of the outer sheath in the first radial direction of the main optical fiber is 1.5 mm to 2.0 mm, and the height of the outer sheath in the second radial direction of the main optical fiber is 1.2 mm to 1.9 mm; The first radial direction and the second radial direction are perpendicular to each other.

Images