Fiber optic cable payout system

摘要

An inside fiber optic payout system uses winding and packaging techniques with an inner stabilizing tube to ensure reliable cable payout. Stiff, elastic cable is rapidly non-precision wound onto a collapsible core spool at a preferred winding pitch. Stand-off attachments are installed over the outer cable layer between opposed spool flanges to support the cable pack when the collapsible core is removed. Duct tape is wrapped around the stand-offs and the outer cable layers to assist in keeping the cable pack stable (without collapsing) even up to its last few layers. The stand-offs also prevent the tape from being drawn out as the final layers of cable are dispensed. A shroud is installed over the tape and stand-offs. Payout preparation includes removing the spool's collapsible core leaving a central aperture in at least one flange of the spool. A circular payout guide is placed over this aperture and a rubber diaphragm is attached to the guide to provide friction for payout back tension. A stabilizing tube is attached to project through the spool's center between the inner diameter of the wound cable. An inner end of the cable is passed through a tubular shaped void existing between the stabilizing tube and the inner periphery of the cable and is passed through the payout guide to be dispensed. The cable spool is easily configured for cable recovery by removing the stand-offs and reinstalling the collapsible core.