WO1999053353A1 - Optical transmission element - Google Patents

Abstract

The housing (GH1) of an optical transmission element (OE1) solely comprises of two profiled bodies (AS, IS) which are embodied as a tubular shell with a longitudinal slit (ASP, ISP). Said bodies are inserted into each other in such a way that they provide a substantially circular seal for an individual chamber (GH1) in the form of a protective tube.

Description

 1 description

Optical transmission element

The invention relates to an optical transmission element with a cross-pressure-resistant housing, which has only a single chamber for one or more optical fibers.

From DE 31 31 424 C2 an optical transmission element with a flat rectangular housing is known, which is formed by an upper and a lower cover and two lateral, tensile support members. This housing is thus composed of four components. In practice, these are too many individual parts, making assembly difficult. In addition, there is in this housing construction

Danger of gaps remaining in the housing at the large number of joints of the four components. As a result, this housing construction is in itself susceptible to the entry of moisture or water vapor into the interior of the chamber, which could result in damage to the optical fibers introduced there. With this housing construction there can be problems with its tightness.

In OS 25 08 825, a band-like stranding element consists of a box-shaped lower part and a U-shaped cover as the upper part. The upper part overlaps the underside of the lower part with its legs. His legs have at their ends on the inside locking lugs with which a self-lemming of the upper part is achieved on the lower part. On the lower part, a plurality of longitudinal webs running next to one another with transverse spacing are provided, so that a multiplicity of individual chambers is formed in a common position plane. Only one single optical fiber is inserted in each chamber, so that it is available individually for assembly purposes. This housing structure can be equipped with several chambers with one each 2 fiber-optic cables are often too expensive in practice. For example, the exact feeding of the respective optical waveguide into its respective assigned chamber is required. In addition, this housing construction only allows band-like, ie flat rectangular configurations in cross-section, and is therefore less suitable for some practical purposes. In particular, because of its flat, rectangular cross-sectional shape, this housing construction is susceptible to any attacking transverse pressure forces. There is a risk that the catch between the lid and the lower part opens.

The invention is based on the object of providing an optical transmission element with a housing which is as simple as possible resistant to transverse pressure and which is sealed as tightly as possible all around. According to the invention, this object is achieved with an optical transmission element of the type mentioned in that the housing is composed of only two profile bodies, that each profile body is designed as a tubular shell with a longitudinal gap, and that these two profile bodies are nested in such a way that they form the chamber complete as a protective tube that is as tight as possible.

Because the housing is only composed of two profile bodies, it can be assembled and / or disassembled in a simple manner under a variety of practical circumstances. Since both profile bodies are designed as tubular shells with a longitudinal gap, their manufacture or manufacture is simplified. Nevertheless, a protective tube can be provided by appropriately placing the two longitudinally slotted tube shells into one another, the interior of which already largely seals itself against transverse pressure and is completely sealed.

Other developments of the invention are given in the subclaims. 3

The invention and its developments are explained in more detail below with reference to drawings.

Show it:

Figure 1 in a schematic and enlarged

Cross-sectional representation of a first embodiment of an optical device according to the invention

Transmission element,

Figure 2 in a schematic and enlarged

Cross-sectional representation of a modification of the optical transmission element of

Figure 1,

Figure 3 in schematic and enlarged

Cross-sectional view of a flat band element for forming a tubular shell with a longitudinal gap for the housing of the optical transmission element according to Figure 1 or 2,

Figure 4 in a schematic and enlarged

Cross-sectional representation of a further modification of the optical transmission element according to Figure 1,

FIGS. 5 and 9 each in a schematic and enlarged cross-sectional representation of further embodiments of an optical transmission element according to the invention, 4 Figure 10 in a schematic cross-sectional view of a conventional housing tube with overlapping band edges, and

Figure 11 is a schematic representation of a

Production line for manufacturing the optical transmission element according to FIG. 4.

Elements with the same function and mode of operation are provided with the same reference numerals in FIGS. 1 and 11.

FIG. 1 shows a schematic and an enlarged cross-sectional illustration of a first optical transmission element OE1 according to the invention. This optical transmission element 0E1 has in its interior a housing GHL, which is essentially annular or toroidal. It only closes a single one, i.e. single chamber KK1 with an approximately circular cross-section all around. At least one optical fiber, in this case a plurality of individual optical fibers LW1 with LWn, is loosely introduced into this chamber. The optical transmission element OE1 is thus designed in the manner of an optical fiber loose tube.

The housing GHL is made up of only two profile bodies AS, IS. Each - Pro ilkörper AS, IS is designed as a tubular shell with a longitudinal gap ASP, ISP. Viewed radially from the inside to the outside (in relation to the imaginary central axis ZA of the optical transmission element OE1), the first profile body IS encloses the chamber space KK1 as the first radially inner longitudinal slot tube, while the second profile body AS sits on the outside as the second longitudinal slot tube. 5 When viewed in cross section, the inner pipe shell IS essentially has the shape of a circular ring section. Their band edges BI1, BI2, viewed in the circumferential direction, face each other with a gap or a gap ISP of width IB that extends along the longitudinal extent of the optical one

Transmission element OE1 - here in Figure 1 perpendicular to the plane of the drawing - propagates. It preferably runs largely in a straight line. Except for the gap ISP, the inner tube shell IS encloses the chamber space KK1 essentially in the form of a torus or closed annulus.

The longitudinal gap ISP in the inner pipe shell IS, viewed in the circumferential direction, preferably has a width IB in the first approximation of between 1% and 30 1>, preferably between 1 and 50% of the total circumference of the housing GHL. The inner diameter of the inner pipe shell IS is expediently chosen between 1.5 and 10 mm, in particular between 2 and 5 mm. The radial layer thickness of this inner tube shell IS is expediently chosen between 0.1 and 2 mm, in particular between 0.1 and 1 mm.

The radially outer, second pipe shell AS, in accordance with the inner pipe shell IS, is also designed in the form of an approximately circular longitudinal slot tube, ie as a torus, the band edges BAI, BA2 of which, viewed in the circumferential direction, are at a distance AB from one another. The longitudinal gap ASP in the outer tubular shell AS, viewed in the circumferential direction, also preferably has a width AB in the first approximation of between 1% and 30%, preferably between 1 and 5% of the total circumference of the housing GHL. The radial layer thickness of this outer tube shell AS is also expediently chosen - like that of the inner tube shell IS - between 0.1 and 2 mm, in particular between 0.1 and 1 mm. 6 The outer pipe shell AS sits firmly on the inner pipe shell IS and encompasses it like a clamp. Both pipe shells IS, AS are rotated relative to one another in the circumferential direction, that is to say positioned such that they cover their longitudinal gaps ISP, ASP with one another, that is to say they close each other. Expediently, the two pipe shells IS, AS, viewed in the circumferential direction, are positioned relative to one another in such a way that their longitudinal gaps ISP, ASP are opposite one another in a first approximation. The longitudinal gap ISP of the inner tube shell IS is preferably offset by approximately 180% with respect to the longitudinal gap ASP in the outer tube shell AS. In this way, the outer tube shell AS radially covers the longitudinal gap ISP of the inner tube shell IS from the outside, while the inner tube shell IS closes the longitudinal gap ASP of the outer tube shell radially from the inside in the circumferential and longitudinal directions. The outer pipe shell AS forms a second protective cover, which holds the first inner pipe shell IS together from the outside. The two pipe shells IS, AS which are nested in one another, that is to say nested in one another, thus form apart from the two

Circumferential places with the longitudinal gaps ASP, ISP almost a double-walled protective tube around the entire outer circumference of the individual chamber KK1. In this way, only the two joints between the two pipe shells AS, IS are mutually sealed by this housing construction alone, i.e. Thanks to the housing alone, the chamber KK1 can already be largely sealed off all around. From the outset, the housing construction alone largely prevents the penetration of water vapor, moisture or OH

Group diffusion into the interior of the chamber and thus damage to the optical fibers stored there can occur.

The outer pipe shell AS is preferably seated on the inner pipe shell IS. For this purpose, its inside diameter is expediently approximately equal to the outside diameter of the 7 inner pipe shell IS selected. In particular, the inner diameter of the outer pipe shell AS is selected such that it can be mechanically firmly clamped onto the outside of the inner pipe shell IS. Generally speaking, the two pipe shells IS, AS are expediently designed in such a way that they can be largely joined together to form the housing GHL. Due to the spring elasticity of their band edges BAI, BA2, the outer pipe shell AS clamps the inner pipe shell IS in a force-fitting manner and already forms a largely tight protective tube with it. The housing GHL surrounds the chamber KK1 largely all around as a double-walled, circular-cylindrical protective tube. In other words, this means that the housing GHL except for the circumferential locations with the columns ASP, ISP on each

Has circumferential position about the same radial band thickness.

In order to preferably achieve a press fit of the outer tube shell AS on the inner tube shell IS, a resilient material such as e.g. Steel used. A metallic material, in particular steel, is preferably also suitable as the material for the inner pipe shell.

Due to the double pipe arrangement of the two interlocking pipe shells, e.g. compared to a single-layer pipe ESR with overlapping band edges BK1, BK2 - as indicated schematically in FIG. 10 - achieve improved strength properties. In particular, this double-walled protective tube structure of the housing GH1 enables improved transverse pressure rigidity or strength compared to a conventional housing with a flat, rectangular cross-sectional shape, e.g. DE 25 08 825.

Due to the largely central symmetrical structure of the housing GH1, its flexibility can be advantageously achieved, for example, compared to a conventional housing improve flat rectangular cross-sectional shape such as DE 25 08 825. Because while such a flat rectangular housing only has a single preferred bending plane perpendicular to its longitudinal extent parallel to its broad side, the housing GH1 is considered in a first approximation due to its essentially circular cylindrical shape at each point on its outer circumference in the radial direction, in each case associated with a preferred bending direction. As a result, the housing GHL in each radial sectional plane in which its center ZA lies has essentially the same bending properties, so that there is a uniform distribution of any bending forces that may be applied. One-sided, permanently remaining deformations of the housing are thus largely avoided due to its largely centrally symmetrical shape. If the longitudinal gaps ISP, ASP of the two pipe shells IS, AS are essentially point-symmetrical with respect to one another with respect to the central axis ZA, the housing GHL is particularly flexible and can be subjected to transverse pressure.

A metallic material, in particular steel or aluminum, is preferably selected for each of the two pipe shells IS, AS. Instead, the respective pipe shell can also be made of an inherently rigid plastic material such as PE (polyethylene), PC (polycarbonate), polyester, polyamide or the like can be extruded.

The circumference of each of the two pipe shells IS and AS preferably comprises an angular range of at least 3/2 π to at most 2 π (= full circle). The width of the longitudinal gap of each pipe shell in the circumferential direction is expediently assigned at most an angular range of π / 2, in particular of at most π / 3.

The bundle of optical fibers LW1 with LWn is in the housing GH1, preferably with an excess length compared to it 9 introduced longitudinal extent. As a result, tensile forces which possibly act on the optical transmission element 0E1 along its longitudinal extent are primarily absorbed by the housing GHL. Inadmissibly high tensile stresses on the optical fibers are thus largely avoided.

In addition or independently of the mechanical fit or clamp fit of the two pipe shells AS, IS, it may be expedient if appropriate to connect the two pipe shells AS, IS to one another without joints using at least one layer of adhesive. In other words, this means that at least one additional, circularly closed adhesive layer is inserted between the inner and outer tube shell IS, AS, by means of which the two tube shells adhere to one another. In the cross-sectional image of FIG. 1, such an adhesive layer is additionally indicated with a circular ring drawn out thickly and designated KS. Such an adhesive layer can preferably be applied around the inner tube shell IS, for example by extrusion, during the manufacture of the optical transmission element OE1. It can also be expedient to envelop the outer surface of the inner pipe shell IS beforehand with such an adhesive layer all around. In addition or independently of this, it may also be expedient to already line the inner surface of the outer tubular shell AS and / or the outer surface of the inner tubular shell IS in advance with such an adhesive layer. If appropriate, it may also be expedient to apply a swelling agent to the outer surface of the inner tube shell IS and / or to the inner surface of the outer tube shell AS. By expanding the swelling agent, a press fit can then be effected for the two pipe shells. Instead of the adhesive, it is of course also possible to use other sealants, adhesives or solder as a preferably approximately circular-cylindrical (spatially viewed) intermediate layer between the inner and the outer 10 pipe shell can be used. Hot melt adhesives are particularly suitable as adhesives or adhesives.

If appropriate, it can also be expedient to coat the inner surface of the outer tube shell and / or the outer surface of the inner tube shell with a plastic. By heating the two superimposed, i.e. pipe shells IS, AS sitting on top of one another can then also be used to bond or fuse these contacting plastic layers.

In general terms, the two pipe shells can be additionally or independently connected to each other to a purely mechanical clamp fit by gluing, welding, soldering or the like. In this way, a firm adherence of the two pipe shells is ensured.

Figure 3 shows a schematic and enlarged cross-sectional view of a band-shaped metal foil MB, which is preferably flat. It has a KSO adhesive or plastic coating on its top. Correspondingly, a plastic or adhesive coating KSU is applied to its underside. This metal foil MB coated on both sides with plastic or adhesive is designated in FIG. 3 with AS *. It can be used both for the inner tube shell IS and for the outer tube shell AS of FIG. 1. This band-like film from FIG. 3 is formed either during the manufacturing process of the optical transmission element or in advance in a specially provided, separate manufacturing process to form a tubular shell of the desired cross-sectional geometric shape.

In Figure 1, the two pipe shells IS, AS are in particular of the same type, ie made of the same material. Of course, it is also possible for 11 two pipe shells IS, AS to choose different materials.

In FIG. 1, an approximately toroidal outer jacket AM is additionally extruded around the outside of the housing GHL. The material for this outer jacket AM is preferably plastic, e.g. PE, polypropylene used. The outer jacket AM can be constructed in one or more layers. If appropriate, it can also be expedient to surround the housing GHL with another cable sheath, as is customary in the case of electrical and / or optical communication cables.

If necessary, it may also be advisable to omit the outer jacket AM, since the housing GHL itself itself, i.e. considered by itself largely transverse pressure resistant and longitudinally watertight.

In summary, the housing construction according to the invention has the following advantages in particular:

Characterized in that the housing is composed of only two profile bodies, it can be assembled and / or disassembled in a simple manner under a variety of practical circumstances. Since both profile bodies are designed as tubular shells with a longitudinal gap, theirs

Manufacture, especially tube forming simplified. Nevertheless, by fitting the two longitudinally slotted tube shells into one another, a protective tube can be provided which, inside itself, already largely seals itself against transverse pressure and is completely sealed.

FIG. 2 shows a schematic and an enlarged representation of a further optical transmission element OE2, which is modified compared to the optical transmission element OE1 of FIG. 1. Its housing corresponds to the housing GHL of the optical transmission element from FIG. 1 12 trained. To increase its tensile strength in the longitudinal direction, at least one elongated tensile element is additionally embedded in its outer casing, which is arranged separately from the housing GHL. In FIG. 2, two pulling elements ZE1, ZE2 with a circular cross section are embedded in the plastic material of the outer jacket AM, which is firmly seated on the outside of the housing GHL of the optical transmission element OE2, at opposite circumferential positions. Ara id fibers, Kevlar threads, GFK (glass fiber reinforced

Plastic) elements or metallic wires such as Steel wires. Because the tension elements are embedded in the outer casing at a distance from the housing, a certain decoupling of the outer casing and the housing is achieved with regard to any attacking tensile forces.

FIG. 4 shows, in a schematic and enlarged cross-sectional representation, a further optical transmission element OE3, which arises from the optical transmission element OE1 of FIG. 1 by modification. The housing GH2 of the optical transmission element OE3 is now composed of two tubular shells S1, S2 compared to the housing GH1 of FIG. 1, each of which only forms approximately 2/3 of an annulus. The two pipe shells S1, S2 are positioned in relation to one another in the circumferential direction, ie twisted in such a way that they mutually cover their stomata. In particular, the outer tube shell S2 encloses the gap of the inner tube shell S1 and the inner tube shell S1 closes the gap of the outer tube shell S2 from the inside. The gap in each pipe shell S1, S2 extends by approximately 1/3 of the outer circumference of the chamber KK2 of the housing GH2, which is approximately circular in cross section. Compared to the tubular shells AS, IS from FIG. 1, the tubular shells S1, S2 thus have an enlarged longitudinal gap or longitudinal slot. This makes it possible, when assembling the housing, to spread the two band edges of the outer pipe shell S2 against their predetermined bending direction to such an extent that the outer pipe shell S2 in 13 can be snapped over the inner tube shell Sl easily. The band edges of the outer pipe shell S2 spring back in the direction of their original direction of curvature and thus clasp the inner pipe shell Sl non-positively, ie firmly. At the same time, when the outer tube shell S2 is slipped on, the band edges of the inner tube shell S1 are able to yield resiliently inwards into the chamber KK2, as a result of which a restoring force acts on the band edges in the direction of the outer tube shell S2. This simplifies the fitting process for the outer pipe shell S2. Both pipe shells S1, S2 are thus assembled in the manner of a snap lock. The outer pipe shell S2 is snap-fit over the inner pipe shell S1. For this purpose, the two pipe shells S1, S2 are expediently rolled with a precise fit before they are joined together. Due to its circular section shape, which only surrounds approximately 2/3 of the outer circumference of the chamber KK2, its shell preforming is simplified compared to that of the tube shells AS, IS of FIG. 1. The two pipe shells S1, S2 can be assembled in this way in particular with a precise fit. In this way, even spring-hard materials can be deformed into the tube shells S1, S2 which are open to about a third of a full circle.

For easy opening of this tube assembly, it can be advantageous not to glue the two tube shells S1, S2 together, but only to clamp them together. Such a snap lock can be easily closed and opened again. This facilitates subsequent assembly work on the optical

Transmission element. A metallic material, in particular steel, or also a plastic can expediently be used for the two pipe shells S1, S2.

This clamping technique is characterized above all by the fact that prefabricated pipe shells are kept in stock as semi-finished products and for the production of an optical one 14 transmission element can be assembled directly to the housing, which simplifies the production process (see Figure 11). These two pipe shells, which each surround only about 2/3 of the outer circumference of the chamber KK2, likewise form a housing GH2 which is largely resistant to transverse pressure and in which the joint gaps are also largely sealed alternately by the pipe shells themselves. Such pipe shells with a 2/3 circular ring cross-sectional geometry are easier in practice by forming from a flat band than one

Pipe shell can be produced with approximately full circular cylinder geometry.

In summary, a particularly reliable sealing of the housing is made possible if each pipe shell encloses at least 2/3 of the outer circumference of the housing chamber.

Although the housing GH2 is already essentially sealed all the way through the nesting of the two, approximately circular-cylindrical pipe shells, it may be expedient to connect the two pipe shells S1, S2 to one another at their contacting surfaces with an adhesive, solder, swelling or other sealant fix. This further improves the tightness of the housing.

Possibly. it may also be expedient to fill the chamber of the respective housing additionally with filling compound, swelling agents, thixotropic agents or the like in order to further increase their longitudinal water tightness. In FIG. 4, the chamber KK2 is filled with a filling compound FM.

Such additional measures to ensure the longitudinal watertightness of the optical transmission element can, however, possibly also be omitted in an advantageous manner, ie saved, due to the “inherent tightness” of the housing GH1. The chamber, such as KK1 of the respective 15 housing such as GH1 of Figure 1 can thus advantageously remain free of filling compound. This also facilitates assembly work on the finished optical transmission element, in particular when branching off or splicing one or more of its optical waveguides. Because the respective optical fiber can be removed cleanly from the chamber. It is therefore not necessary for a fitter to clean the respective optical waveguide with an associated other optical waveguide before it is spliced.

A single or multi-layer cable outer sheath AM, in particular a plastic outer sheath, is also applied to the housing GH2 in FIG. Since the housing considers GH2 on its own, i.e. Already, largely sealed due to its tubular shell construction, the outer jacket AM could possibly also be omitted. The housing GH2, in the interior of the chamber KK2 of which several individual optical waveguides LW1 with LWn are introduced, could therefore already form an optical transmission element alone.

A further modified optical transmission element OE4 is drawn in FIG. 5 in a schematic and enlarged representation. It is already formed solely by a housing GH3, which likewise only consists of two profile bodies US1, US2. Everyone

Profile body US1, US2, viewed in cross section, is essentially in the form of a U-profile. Specifically, the inner, U-shaped profile body US2 has a flat bottom B02, which is delimited on both sides by a leg SE21, SE22. Both legs or

Side walls SE21, SE22 are essentially perpendicular to the floor B02. In this way, a substantially rectangular chamber RK1 is enclosed between the two legs SE21, SE22 and the bottom B02. This rectangular chamber RK1 is covered from the outside between the two freely projecting ends of the legs SE21, SE22 by the flat bottom part BO1 of the outer profile body US1. 16 For this purpose, the outer U-profile body US1 is turned over in relation to the first, inner profile body US2, ie turned upside down and slipped over it as a cover. The outer U-shaped profile body US1 clutches with its two legs SEH, SE12 from the outside the two legs SE21, SE22 of the inner profile body US2. The second, outer profile body US1 is designed in accordance with the inner profile body US2. The outer profile body US1 also has a flat bottom part BO1, which is connected to each of its two band edges by a side wall or one

Leg SEH, SE12 is limited. The legs SEH, SE12 are essentially perpendicular to the bottom part BO1. The inner contour of this outer profile body US1 is expediently chosen and dimensioned such that the first profile body US2 can be fitted as flush as possible into the rectangular chamber of the second profile body US1 and can be received there. The chamber depth of the outer profile body US1 is expediently chosen to be so deep that the bottom part B02 of the inner profile body US2 is essentially flush with the outer edges of the free legs SE21, SE12 of the outer profile body US1. The housing GH3 thus has a rectangular outer contour. Both profile bodies US1, US2 enclose a substantially rectangular chamber RK1, into which several individual optical waveguides LW1 with LWn are introduced in FIG.

It can be expedient to preform the legs SE21, SE22 of the inner profile body US2 at an angle to the bottom part B02 with more than 90 ° and / or those of the outer profile body US1 with less than 90 ° with respect to the bottom part BO1 thereof. By spreading the legs SE11, SE12 of the outer profile body US1 and / or by squeezing the two legs SE21, SE22 of the inner profile body US2, the outer profile body US1 can then be clamped over the inner profile body US2 in a force-locking manner, ie the two U-profiles can be clamped together. The inner profile body US2 17 sits in the U-shaped receiving chamber of the outer profile body USl preferably with a press fit. In this way, the housing GH3 alone can be largely sealed off from this mechanical clamping fit.

In addition or independently of this, it can be expedient to coat the outer leg walls of the inner profile body and / or the inner leg walls of the outer profile body US 1 with an adhesive, solder, swell or other adhesive or sealant in order to ensure the tightness of the chamber RK 1 .

Are for the respective two tubular shell-like profile bodies such as USl, US2 uses metallic materials, it may be particularly expedient to apply a solder to their contact surfaces. The two profile bodies can then be soldered to one another under the action of heat.

Furthermore, swelling agent-containing liquids or other sealants can also be applied to the contact surfaces of the two profile bodies, which bring about a mechanically firm bracing, that is to say a mechanically firm interlocking of the two profile bodies. If the two profile bodies are coated with a plastic material on their contact surfaces, they can be welded to one another by heating these plastic contacting surfaces.

Viewed in summary, the optical transmission element OE4 thus also has a housing composed of only two individual profile bodies, each of which is designed as a tubular shell with a longitudinal gap. Both profile bodies intermesh in such a way that they surround a single chamber as tightly as possible as a closed protective tube. One or more optical fibers can be introduced into this chamber. This housing is equipped with optical fibers 18 can already be used as an optical transmission element solely because of its mechanical stability, in particular transverse compressive strength and because of its tightness.

Figure 6 shows schematically in an enlarged

Cross-sectional view of another optical transmission element 0E5, which emerges from the optical transmission element 0E4 of Figure 5 by modification. An outer jacket BAM, in particular a plastic jacket, is extruded all around on the housing GH3. This outer jacket BAM has a rectangular, in particular square, cross-sectional shape. It sits around the rectangular housing GH3. In the exemplary embodiment, its layer thickness is selected to be greater in the region of the side walls of the housing GH3 than in the region of the base and cover part of the housing GH3. This makes it possible to additionally embed an elongated tension element TE1, TE2 in the jacket material of the outer jacket BAM on both sides of the legs of the two nested U-profiles US1, US2. In Figure 6, the two tension elements TE1, TE2 have an approximately circular cross-sectional shape. They can preferably be formed by a tensile wire, plastic, glass fiber, GRP strand or the like. Aramid fibers are also particularly suitable.

The left-hand, tensile support element TE1 and the right-hand, tensile support element TE2 are each arranged at a lateral distance, that is to say a transverse distance from the housing GH3, in order to be able to derive any tensile forces acting on the optical transmission element OE5 primarily via the tension elements TE1, TE2. This arrangement thus provides mechanical decoupling with regard to any tensile forces acting between the fixed support elements and the housing GH3.

FIG. 7 shows a further optical one in a schematic and enlarged cross-sectional representation 19 transmission element 0E5 *, which is constructed in accordance with the optical transmission element 0E5 from FIG. 6, but whose single chamber RK1 is now equipped with one or more optical waveguide bands instead of individual optical waveguides. In FIG. 7, two optical waveguide bands BL1, BL2 are introduced as an example into the rectangular shape chamber RK1 of the housing GH3. Each optical waveguide band has a plurality of optical waveguides in a common position plane. There they run largely parallel and at approximately the same, predetermined transverse distance to one another. These side-by-side optical waveguides are embedded all around m in a common ribbon sheathing with a rectangular cross section. In such a rectangular chamber RKl, of course, a correspondingly adapted, rectangular stack of optical waveguides can also be inserted.

Furthermore, it may also be expedient to fill the chamber of the respective housing with a conventional cable filler, which in particular

Thixotropic agents or other swelling or sealing agents are added. As a result, the interior of the chamber can also be made watertight. In FIGS. 6 and 7, such a filling compound FM completely fills the chamber RK1. At the same time, it cushions the fiber optic bands such as BL1, BL2 and thus additionally protects them against impermissibly high mechanical loads.

FIG. 8 finally shows a further optical transmission element 0E6, which is obtained by modifying the cross-sectional geometric shape of the housing GH3 from FIG. 5. The optical transmission element 0E6 in turn has a housing GH4, which is formed by nesting only two profile bodies RS1, RS2. The inner Profilkorper RS2 is designed in a first approximation as a rectangular tubular shell, between the 20 band edges, a narrow longitudinal slot or longitudinal gap SP2 remains. The inner profile body RS2 thus forms a rectangular longitudinal slot tube. This inner profile body RS2 is enclosed or encompassed on the outside by a second profile body RS1, which is also rectangular in shape. The outer profile body RS1 is also designed in a first approximation as a rectangular tubular shell with a longitudinal slot SP1. In this way, the two interlocking rectangular profile bodies RS1, RS2 enclose a common rectangular chamber RKl that the

Inclusion of optical message elements such as individual optical fibers, optical fiber bundles, optical fiber tapes or stacks of optical fibers is used. The two profile bodies RS1, RS2 are in turn nested in such a way that their longitudinal gaps SP1, SP2 are arranged essentially opposite one another. The longitudinal gap SP2 of the inner pipe shell RS2 is covered by the bottom part of the upside down outer pipe shell RS1. The longitudinal gap SP1 of the outer pipe shell RS1, however, is from the inside

Bottom part of the inner pipe shell RS2 completed. Both pipe shells therefore mutually cover their longitudinal gaps SP1, SP2. In this way, a housing is formed, which surrounds the individual chamber RKl largely all around in the form of a double-walled protective tube.

The optical transmission element OE7 from FIG. 9 finally has a rectangular housing GH5, which is formed by nesting a largely rectangular tubular shell and a U-shaped tubular shell. The housing GH5 from FIG. 9 is composed, for example, of the U-shaped profile body US2 from FIG. 5 as the inner tube shell and the rectangular profile body RS1 from FIG. 8 as the outer tube shell. The outer, essentially rectangular tubular shell RS1 clasps the U-shaped tubular shell US2 largely in a form-fitting and non-positive manner. Of course it is also possible to use the two 21 Exchanging the profile body RS1, RS2 in their position, that is to say to provide a rectangular profile body on the inside and to put a U-shaped profile body over it.

In FIGS. 8, 9, optical message elements such as optical fibers or the like have been omitted in the chamber of the respective housing for the sake of simplicity of the drawing.

In the case of a rectangular shape of the housing according to FIGS. 5 and 9, the aspect ratio from width to height in cross section is expediently chosen to be approximately between 1: 1 and 2: 1. In a first approximation, the proportions of the housing are selected in such a way that an interior that is as square as possible, e.g. RKl results. Through such an approximately square cross-sectional shape of the respective housing, such as GH3 of Figure 5, this is advantageously sufficiently flexible in all spatial directions. At the same time, it is characterized by a high transverse pressure rigidity.

In the case of the housing constructions of FIGS. 5 and 9, the two pipe shells can, if necessary or additionally or independently of a purely mechanical press fit - as explained for the housing structures of FIGS. In this way, a firm adherence of the two pipe shells is ensured.

The housing construction according to the invention can also be used to advantage for bulletproof sleeves in communication cables. Particularly stable housings, in particular steel tubes, are required there, which as a single-layer tube with overlapping band edges (cf. FIG. 10) are difficult to form, that is to say can be manufactured. In the two-layer construction, however, such shot-proof, particularly cross-pressure-resistant housings are lighter with the slotted tubular shells rv IV ¹

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23 drawn. The inner, first pipe shell S1 and the outer, second pipe shell S2 are drawn off from associated supply coils VS1, VS2 and fed to a joining device FV. Before the outer tube shell S2 is pressed onto the inner tube shell S1 in the joining device FV, a bundle LWB of optical fibers is inserted into the inner tube shell S1. Subsequently, the outer tube shell S2 is clamped onto the inner tube shell S1 equipped with optical fibers with the aid of the joining device FV, and the housing GH2, which is closed all round, is thus formed. For the clamping process, the joining device can e.g. be designed as a kind of nipple or molded shoe. Then, with the help of a subsequent EX extruder, an outer jacket - such as AM of Figure 4 - extruded around the housing. The optical transmission element OE3 manufactured in this way is finally reeled on a supply reel AS.

By using preformed pipe shells as semi-finished products, a housing according to the invention can thus be assembled by covering at least one of the two pipe shells with at least one optical transmission element and subsequent clamping of the second pipe shell. This assembly therefore only requires a simple, purely mechanical joining process of the two preformed pipe shells, which is very effective. This method of assembly can optionally also be used advantageously for the housing constructions shown in FIGS. 1 with 3, 5 with 9.

Of course, it can also be expedient to simultaneously carry out the shaping of the pipe shells and their subsequent assembly in a single production line.

Claims

24 claims 1. Optical transmission element (OEl) with a cross-pressure-resistant housing (GHl), which has only a single chamber (KKl) for one or more optical fibers (LWl with LWn), characterized in that the housing (GHl) only consists of two profile bodies (AS , IS) is composed that each profile body (AS, IS) is designed as a tubular shell with a longitudinal gap (ASP, ISP), and that these two profile bodies (AS, IS) are placed in such a way that the chamber (KKl) is as round as possible Close tight protective tube. 2. Optical transmission element according to claim 1, characterized in that the longitudinal gap (ASP, ISP) of each profile body (AS, IS) extends along the full length of the housing (GHL). 3. Optical transmission element according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that each profile body (AS, IS) at least two thirds of the Encloses the outer circumference of the chamber (KKl). 4. Optical transmission element according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in - that the respective profile body (AS), viewed in cross section, is essentially in the form of a circular ring section. 5. Optical transmission element according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized. 25 that the respective profile body (USl) viewed in cross section is essentially in the form of a U-profile. 6. Optical transmission element according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the respective profile body (RSl) viewed in cross section is essentially in the form of a rectangle with a longitudinal slot (SPD). 7. Optical transmission element according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that an outer jacket (AM) is seated all around on the housing (GHL). 8. Optical transmission element according to claim 7, characterized in that in the outer jacket (AM) at least one elongate tension element (ZE1) is provided that is arranged separately from the housing (GHl). 9. Optical transmission element according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the two tube shells (Sl, S2) by positive locking Housing (GH2) are joined together. 10. Optical transmission element according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the two tube shells (Sl, S2) are designed such that they can be snap-fitted together to form the housing (GH2). 26 11. Optical transmission element according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the two profile bodies (AS, IS) are firmly connected to one another by gluing, welding or soldering. 12. Optical transmission element according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the longitudinal gap (ASP, ISP) in the respective pipe shell viewed in the circumferential direction in a first approximation has a width of at least 1% and at most 30% of the total circumference of the cross-pressure-resistant housing (GHL) . 13. Optical transmission element according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in the case of a rectangular shape of the housing (GH3) Aspect ratio of width to height in cross section viewed between approximately 1: 1 and 2: 1 is selected. 14. Optical transmission element according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the respective pipe shell (AS, IS) is formed by forming a flat band. 15. Optical transmission element according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the two pipe shells (AS, IS) are positioned relative to one another such that they mutually cover their longitudinal gaps (ASP, ISP). 16. Optical transmission element according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that 27 that the two profile bodies (AS, IS) are nested in such a way that their longitudinal gaps (ASP, ISP) are arranged essentially opposite one another. 17. Optical transmission element according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the two pipe shells (AS, IS) sit on one another. 18. Optical transmission element according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that on the outer surface of the inner tube shell (IS) and / or on the inner surface of the outer tube shell (AS) at least one adhesive layer, a swelling agent and / or another sealant or adhesive (KS) is applied. 19. Optical transmission element according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a layer thickness between 0.1 and 2.0 mm, in particular between 0.1 and 1.0 mm, is selected for the respective pipe shell (AS). 20. Optical transmission element according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that one or more optical fibers (LWl with LWn) are loosely introduced into the housing (GHl). 21. Optical transmission element according to one of claims 1 to 19, characterized in that in the housing (GHl) at least one optical waveguide B (BL) is introduced, which has several optical waveguides in its ribbon jacket. 22. Optical transmission element according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that one or more optical fibers (LWl with LWn) in the Housing (GHl) are inserted with excess length with regard to its total length.