This invention relates to fiber optic cable and specifically methods of furcating fiber optic cables carrying multiple optical fibers. Typical fiber optic cable is comprised of several components run together inside sheathing. First, fiber optic cable contains at least one optical fiber, which is contained in a protective tube. Next, running along side the optical fiber substantially parallel thereto are reinforcing members and reinforcing fibers or yarns. The reinforcing members are typically fiberglass rods and the reinforcing yarn is typically a strong, synthetic fiber, such as aramid.
Fiber optic cables, commonly used for communication transmissions, are often run over long distances. It is more efficient to run a single fiber optic cable containing multiple optical fibers that it is to run multiple separate fiber optic cables. A cable containing multiple optical fibers typically has all of the fibers running together, side-by-side, in a protective tube similar to that which would be used in a cable having a single optical fiber. To connect these individual optical fibers to devices, however, it is usually necessary to separate the optical fibers into individual cables carrying a single optical fiber each. The individual cables are then terminated with hardened fiber optic connectors.
The junction between the fiber optic cable carrying multiple fibers and the fiber optic cables carrying the individual fibers must be strong and watertight. At the same time, the junction must provide room for the optical fibers to bend as the fiber optic cables expand and contract. A method of creating such a junction should also be simple to execute and should not involve the use of a large number of specialized parts or pieces.
Accordingly, there is a need for a simple and reliable method of furcating a fiber optic cable containing multiple optical fibers that results in a sealed and strong junction that permits the optical fibers to bend as the fiber optic cables expand and contract.