[0001] The present invention relates to the field of optical communication technology and, in particular, relates to a ribbed and grooved cable. The present application is based on, and claims priority from an Indian Application Number 202011024930 filed on 13th June 2020 the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein.

BACKGROUND
[0002] With the technological and scientific advancements, various modern communication technologies have been introduced and employed. One of the most important modern communication technologies is optical fiber communication technology using a variety of optical fiber cables. The optical fiber cables are widely used for communication to meet the increasing demands of end-users. To meet the increasing demands, installation of the optical fiber cables at a rapid pace becomes essential. The optical fiber cables for telecommunication application are installed in ducts. The installation of the optical fiber cables in the ducts is mostly performed using a blowing method, wherein, the blowing method to install the optical fiber cables in the ducts is dependent on a plurality of factors. The plurality of factors includes mass of the optical fiber cable, friction, stiffness, and the like. The blowing method enables installation of the optical fiber cable using pressurized air combined with additional mechanical pushing force that is called as “blowing”.
[0003] In general, the blowing method is the process of installation of the optical fiber cable into a pre-installed duct. The blowing is performed by injecting pressurized air in inlet of the pre-installed duct before the optical fiber cable is pushed into the pre-installed duct. The pressurized air flows at high speed through the pre-installed duct and along the optical fiber cable. Also, pushing force is applied near the optical fiber cable inlet by a pushing device. The optical fiber cable includes uni-tube, multi-tube, unarmoured, armoured, micro duct cable, and the like. However, conventional structure of optical fiber cable makes it inefficient to allow pressurized air to blow the optical fiber cable in the pre-installed duct. In addition, the conventional optical fiber cable resists the pushing force due to higher coefficient of friction. Further, the conventional optical fiber cable has higher number of contact points with the pre-installed duct. Furthermore, the conventional optical fiber cable has heavy weight.
[0004] In light of the above-stated discussion, there exists a need for an optical fiber cable that overcomes the above cited drawbacks of the conventional optical fiber cable.

OBJECT OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0005] A primary object of the present disclosure is to provide a ribbed and grooved cable.
[0006] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide the ribbed and grooved cable that reduces coefficient of friction between a cable sheath and a duct.
[0007] Yet another object of the present disclosure is to provide the ribbed and grooved cable that has high resistance against crush.
[0008] Yet another object of the present disclosure is to provide the ribbed and grooved cable that has inner grooves for reducing mass of the ribbed and grooved cable while increasing free space for optical fibers or ribbons in the ribbed and grooved cable.

SUMMARY
[0009] In an aspect, the present disclosure provides a cable with high blowing performance. The cable is a ribbed and grooved cable. The cable includes a sheath, a plurality of ribs, a plurality of grooves, and a plurality of strength members. The sheath of the cable includes an inner surface and an outer surface. The plurality of ribs and the plurality of grooves are formed on the outer surface of the sheath. The cable is installed into a duct using a blowing process. Furthermore, the duct surrounds the cable. Moreover, the blowing process to install the cable in the duct is dependent on a plurality of factors. The plurality of factors includes mass of the cable, friction between the cable and the duct, stiffness of the cable, and the like. Also, the blowing process enables installation of the cable using pressurized air combined with a mechanical pushing force. The plurality of ribs and the plurality of grooves reduce coefficient of friction between inner surface of the duct and the outer surface of the sheath. The plurality of ribs and the plurality of grooves reduce weight of the cable. Also, each of the plurality of strength members is embedded in the sheath. The plurality of strength members enhances blowing performance of the cable by increasing stiffness of the cable. The plurality of strength members provides tensile strength to the cable.
[0010] The plurality of ribs and the plurality of grooves are arranged alternately to each other on the outer surface of the sheath.
[0011] Each of the plurality of ribs has equal or unequal height.
[0012] The plurality of ribs includes a first type of ribs and a second type of ribs. In addition, height of the first type of ribs is larger than height of the second type of ribs. Further, the first type of ribs and the second type of ribs are arranged alternately to each other. Furthermore, the alternate arrangement of the first type of ribs and the second type of ribs reduces weight of the cable. Moreover, number of the first type of ribs is equal to the number of second type of ribs.
[0013] The plurality of grooves includes internal grooves and external grooves. The internal grooves of the plurality of grooves are formed on the inner surface of the sheath. The external grooves of the plurality of grooves are formed on the outer surface of the sheath.

STATEMENT OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0014] The present disclosure provides provides a cable with a high blowing performance. The cable is a ribbed and grooved cable. The cable includes a sheath, a plurality of ribs, a plurality of grooves, and a plurality of strength members. The sheath of the cable includes an inner surface and an outer surface. The plurality of ribs and the plurality of grooves are formed on the outer surface of the sheath. The cable is installed into a duct using a blowing process. The duct surrounds the cable. The blowing process to install the cable in the duct is dependent on a plurality of factors. The plurality of factors includes mass of the cable, friction between the cable and the duct, stiffness of the cable, and the like. Also, the blowing process enables installation of the cable using pressurized air combined with a mechanical pushing force. The plurality of ribs and the plurality of grooves reduce coefficient of friction between inner surface of the duct and the outer surface of the sheath. The plurality of ribs and the plurality of grooves reduce weight of the cable. Each of the plurality of strength members is embedded in the sheath. The plurality of strength members enhances blowing performance of the cable by increasing stiffness of the cable. The plurality of strength members provides tensile strength to the cable.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0015] Having thus described the invention in general terms, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, and wherein:
[0016] FIG. 1 illustrates a design of a sheath of a cable;
[0017] FIG. 2 illustrates the design of the sheath of the cable;
[0018] FIG. 3 illustrates the design of the sheath of the cable;
[0019] FIG. 4 illustrates the design of the sheath of the cable;
[0020] FIG. 5 illustrates the design of the sheath of the cable;
[0021] FIG. 6 illustrates the design of the sheath of the cable;
[0022] FIG. 7 illustrates the design of the sheath of the cable;
[0023] FIG. 8 illustrates the design of the sheath of the cable;
[0024] FIG. 9, FIG. 10 and FIG. 11 illustrate various designs of the sheath of the cable.
[0025] It should be noted that the accompanying figures are intended to present illustrations of exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. These figures are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. It should also be noted that accompanying figures are not necessarily drawn to scale.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION
[0026] Reference in this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present technology. The appearance of the phrase “in one embodiment” in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, nor are separate or alternative embodiments mutually exclusive of other embodiments. Moreover, various features are described which may be exhibited by some embodiments and not by others. Similarly, various requirements are described which may be requirements for some embodiments but no other embodiments.
[0027] Reference will now be made in detail to selected embodiments of the present disclosure in conjunction with accompanying figures. The embodiments described herein are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure, and the present disclosure should not be construed as limited to the embodiments described. This disclosure may be embodied in different forms without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosure. It should be understood that the accompanying figures are intended and provided to illustrate embodiments of the disclosure described below and are not necessarily drawn to scale. In the drawings, like numbers refer to like elements throughout, and thicknesses and dimensions of some components may be exaggerated for providing better clarity and ease of understanding.
[0028] Moreover, although the following description contains many specifics for the purposes of illustration, anyone skilled in the art will appreciate that many variations and/or alterations to said details are within the scope of the present technology. Similarly, although many of the features of the present technology are described in terms of each other, or in conjunction with each other, one skilled in the art will appreciate that many of these features can be provided independently of other features. Accordingly, this description of the present technology is set forth without any loss of generality to, and without imposing limitations upon, the present technology.
[0029] It should be noted that the terms "first", "second", and the like, herein do not denote any order, ranking, quantity, or importance, but rather are used to distinguish one element from another. Further, the terms "a" and "an" herein do not denote a limitation of quantity, but rather denote the presence of at least one of the referenced item.
[0030] In an aspect, the present disclosure provides an optical fiber cable. The optical fiber cable comprises a plurality of optical fibers and a sheath enclosing the plurality of optical fibers concentrically along a length of the optical fiber cable. The sheath has an outer surface and an inner surface. The outer surface of the sheath has a plurality of external ribs and a plurality of external grooves. The plurality of external ribs and the plurality of external grooves are arranged alternately to each other on the outer surface of the sheath. The plurality of external ribs has at least two heights i.e. a first height and a second height, wherein the plurality of external ribs having the first height and the second height are arranged alternately throughout the outer surface of the sheath of the optical fiber cable. Further, the plurality of external ribs having the first height and the second height are arranged in such a way that the plurality of external ribs having the first height and the plurality of external ribs having the second height are positioned diagonally opposite to each other. The first height is in a range of 0.2-1.0 millimeters and the second height is in the range of 0.1-0.5 millimeters. Further, the plurality of external ribs has a width in the range of 1.2-2.5 millimeters and the plurality of external grooves has a width in the range of 1.2-2.5 millimeters.
[0031] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides an optical fiber cable. The optical fiber cable comprises a plurality of optical fibers and a sheath enclosing the plurality of optical fibers concentrically along a length of the optical fiber cable. The sheath has an outer surface and an inner surface. The inner surface of the sheath has a plurality of internal ribs and a plurality of internal grooves arranged alternately to each other throughout the inner surface of the sheath. The plurality of internal grooves are made to reduce weight of the optical fiber cable. The plurality of internal ribs has a height in a range of 0.1-1.0 millimeter. Further, the plurality of internal ribs has a width in the range of 1.2-2.5 millimeters and the plurality of internal grooves has the width in the range of 1.2-2.5 millimeters.
[0032] FIG. 1 illustrates a design of a sheath of a cable 100. The cable 100 has a ribbed and grooved sheath and thus is termed as a ribbed and grooved cable. The cable 100 has a high blowing performance. The cable 100 includes a plurality of optical fibers (not shown) and the sheath 102 having a plurality of ribs 104 and a plurality of grooves 106. The sheath 102 has a plurality of strength members 108 embedded into it.
[0033] The sheath 102 includes an inner surface and an outer surface. In general, sheath is an outer layer of a cable that protects the cable from environmental conditions. In addition, the environment conditions include but may not be limited to rainfall, sunlight, snowfall, and wind. The sheath 102 of the cable 100 encloses the plurality of optical fibers concentrically along a length of the optical fiber cable, wherein the sheath has an outer surface and an inner surface. The outer surface of the sheath 102 of the cable 100 includes the plurality of ribs 104 and the plurality of grooves 106. The plurality of ribs 104 and the plurality of grooves 106 are formed on the outer surface of the sheath 102, thus may be called as a plurality of external ribs and a plurality of external grooves throughout the disclosure. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, number of the plurality of ribs 104 is same as number of the plurality of grooves 106.
[0034] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, each of the plurality of ribs 104 has depth in range of about 0.1 millimeter to 2 millimeters. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, the plurality of ribs 104 has depth in range of about 0.2 millimeter to 1 millimeter. In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, depth of the plurality of ribs 104 may vary. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the plurality of ribs 104 has width in range of about 0.4 millimeter to 20 millimeter. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, the plurality of ribs 104 has width in range of about 0.5 millimeter to 4 millimeter. In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, width of the plurality of ribs 104 may vary. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, number of the plurality of ribs 104 is 12. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, number of the plurality of ribs 104 may vary depending upon width of the plurality of ribs 104. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, number of grooves 106 is 12. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, number of the plurality of grooves 106 may vary depending upon width of the plurality of grooves 106. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, area of the cable 100 corresponding to 12 ribs and 12 grooves is about 44.45 millimeter square. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, area of the cable may vary depending upon internal diameter of the cable, external diameter of the cable, number of the plurality of ribs 104 and the plurality of grooves 106.
[0035] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the cable 100 has deformation of about 0.59 under crushing load at 500 Newton per 100 millimeter. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, deformation of the cable 100 may vary. In addition, deformation of the cable 100 may vary depending upon a plurality of parameters. The plurality of parameters includes but may not be limited to number of the plurality of ribs 104 and the plurality of grooves 106, width and height of the plurality of ribs 104 and the plurality of grooves 106, inside and outside diameter of the cable 100, number of the plurality of strength members 108 in the sheath 102, and material grade of the cable 100.
[0036] The plurality of ribs 104 and the plurality of grooves 106 reduce coefficient of friction between the sheath 102 and a duct. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the plurality of ribs 104 and the plurality of grooves 106 are arranged alternately to each other on the outer surface of the sheath 102. In an example, a groove of the plurality of grooves 106 is present on both sides of each rib of the plurality of ribs 104. In another example, a rib of the plurality of ribs 104 is present on both sides of each groove of the plurality of grooves 106. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, height of each of the plurality of ribs 104 is equal. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, height of each of the plurality of grooves 106 is equal.
[0037] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the cable 100 is installed into the duct using a blowing process. Further, the duct surrounds the cable 100. The blowing process to install the cable 100 in the duct is dependent on a plurality of factors. The plurality of factors includes mass of the cable 100, friction between the cable 100 and the duct, stiffness of the cable 100, and the like. Also, the blowing process enables installation of the cable 100 using pressurized air combined with a mechanical pushing force.
[0038] Further, the cable 100 includes the plurality of strength members 108. Furthermore, each of the plurality of strength members 108 is embedded in the sheath 102. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, each of the plurality of strength elements 108 in the sheath 102 may be positioned differently. The plurality of strength members 108 enhances blowing performance of the cable 100 by increasing stiffness of the cable 100. Moreover, the plurality of strength members 108 provides tensile strength to the cable 100. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, number of the plurality of strength members 108 embedded in the sheath 102 of the cable 100 is in the range of 4 to 18. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, number of the plurality of strength members 108 may vary.
[0039] FIG. 2 illustrates the design of the sheath of the cable 100. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, number of the plurality of ribs 104 in the sheath 102 (of FIG. 2) is 18. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, number of the plurality of ribs 104 in the sheath 102 may vary. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, number of the plurality of grooves 106 in the sheath 102 is 18. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, number of the plurality of grooves 106 may vary.
[0040] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, area of the cable 100 corresponding to 18 ribs and 18 grooves is about 44.28 millimeter square. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, area of the cable may vary depending upon internal diameter of the cable, external diameter of the cable, number of the plurality of ribs 104 and the plurality of grooves 106. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the cable 100 has deformation of about 0.63 under crushing load at 500 Newton per 100 millimeter. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, deformation of the cable 100 may vary. In addition, deformation of the cable 100 may vary depending upon the plurality of parameters. The plurality of parameters includes but may not be limited to number of the plurality of ribs 104 and the plurality of grooves 106, width and height of the plurality of ribs 104 and the plurality of grooves 106, inside and outside diameter of the cable 100, number of the plurality of strength members 108 in the sheath 102, and material grade of the cable 100.
[0041] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the plurality of ribs (i.e. the plurality of external ribs) 104 and the plurality of grooves (i.e. the plurality of external grooves) 106 (of FIG. 2) are arranged alternately to each other on the outer surface of the sheath 102. In an example, a groove of the plurality of grooves 106 is present on both sides of each rib of the plurality of ribs 104. In another example, a rib of the plurality of ribs 104 is present on both sides of each groove of the plurality of grooves 106. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, height of each of the plurality of ribs 104 is equal. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, height of each of the plurality of grooves 106 is equal. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the plurality of ribs 104 and the plurality of grooves 106 may have any shape.
[0042] FIG. 3 illustrates the design of the sheath of the cable 100. The plurality of ribs 104 includes a first type of ribs and a second type of ribs. Each rib of the first type of ribs has large size. Each rib of the second type of ribs has smaller size as compared to the first type of ribs. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, height of the first type of ribs (i.e. a first height) is larger than height of the second type of ribs (i.e. a second height). In an example, during installation of the cable 100 into a duct, only the first type of ribs touches the duct. In addition, the second type of ribs does not touch the duct due to small size of the second type of ribs.
[0043] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, number of the first type of ribs is equal to the number of second type of ribs. The first type of ribs and the second type of ribs are arranged alternately to each other. The alternate arrangement of the first type of ribs and the second type of ribs reduces weight of the cable 100. In addition, the alternate arrangement of the first type of ribs and the second type of ribs reduces friction in the cable 100. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, number of the first type of ribs is 6. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, number of the first type of ribs may vary. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, number of the second type of ribs is 6. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, number of the second type of ribs may vary. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, number of the plurality of ribs 104 (first type of ribs and second type of ribs) is 12. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, number of the plurality of ribs 104 may vary.
[0044] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, area of the cable 100 corresponding to 12 ribs is about 43.66 millimeter square. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, area of the cable 100 may vary depending upon internal diameter of the cable, external diameter of the cable, number of the plurality of ribs 104. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the cable 100 has deformation of about 0.59 under crushing load at 500 Newton per 100 millimeter. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, deformation of the cable 100 may vary. In addition, deformation of the cable 100 may vary depending upon the plurality of parameters. The plurality of parameters includes but may not be limited to number of the plurality of ribs 104 and the plurality of grooves 106, width and height of the plurality of ribs 104 and the plurality of grooves 106, inside and outside diameter of the cable 100, number of the plurality of strength members 108 in the sheath 102, and material grade of the cable 100.
[0045] FIG. 4 illustrates the design of the sheath of the cable 100. The cable 100 includes the sheath 102. The sheath 102 has the plurality of ribs 104, the plurality of grooves 106, and the plurality of strength members 108. The plurality of ribs 104 is formed on the outer surface of the sheath 102 and may be referred to as the plurality of external ribs. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, number of the plurality of ribs 104 on the outer surface of the sheath 102 of the cable 100 is 12. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, number of the plurality of ribs 104 on the outer surface of the sheath 102 of the cable 100 may vary. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, each of the plurality of ribs 104 has height of about 0.5 millimeter. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, height of the plurality of ribs 104 may vary.
[0046] The sheath 102 includes the plurality of grooves 106. The plurality of grooves 106 (of FIG. 4) includes a plurality of internal grooves and the plurality of external grooves. The plurality of internal grooves of the plurality of grooves 106 are formed on an inner surface of the sheath 102. The plurality of internal grooves reduce mass of the cable 100. In addition, the plurality of internal grooves increase free space for optical fibers or ribbons in the cable 100. The plurality of external grooves of the plurality of grooves 106 are formed on the outer surface of the sheath 102. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, number of the plurality of grooves 106 on the inner surface (the plurality of internal grooves) of the sheath 102 is 6. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, number of the plurality of grooves 106 on the inner surface of the sheath 102 may vary. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the plurality of internal grooves of the plurality of grooves 106 have height of about 0.5 millimeter. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, height of the plurality of internal grooves of the plurality of grooves 106 may vary. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, number of the plurality of grooves 106 on the outer surface (the plurality of external grooves) of the sheath 102 is 12. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, number of the plurality of grooves 106 on the outer surface (the plurality of external grooves) of the sheath 102 may vary.
[0047] In general, the plurality of grooves 106 on the outer surface of the sheath 102 may be called as the plurality of external grooves or external grooves. The plurality of grooves 106 on the inner surface of the sheath 102 may be called as the plurality of internal grooves or internal grooves. Similarly, the plurality of ribs 104 on the outer surface of the sheath 102 may be called as the plurality of external ribs or external ribs. The plurality of ribs 104 on the inner surface of the sheath 102 may be called as the plurality of internal ribs or internal ribs.
[0048] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, area of the cable 100 corresponding to 12 ribs and 6 internal grooves is about 41.05 millimeter square. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, area of the cable may vary depending upon internal diameter of the cable, external diameter of the cable, number of the plurality of ribs 104. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the cable 100 has deformation of about 1.80 under crushing load at 500 Newton per 100 millimeter. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, deformation of the cable 100 may vary. In addition, deformation of the cable 100 may vary depending upon the plurality of parameters. The plurality of parameters includes but may not be limited to number of the plurality of ribs 104 and number of internal grooves of the plurality of grooves 106, width and height of the plurality of ribs 104 and the plurality of grooves 106, inside and outside diameter of the cable 100, number of the plurality of strength members 108 in the sheath 102, and material grade of the cable 100.
[0049] FIG. 5 illustrates the design of the sheath of the cable 100, wherein the plurality of ribs 104 includes a first type of ribs and a second type of ribs. Each rib of the first type of ribs has large size. Each rib of the second type of ribs has a smaller size as compared to the first type of ribs. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, height of the first type of ribs (i.e. the first height) is larger than height of the second type of ribs (i.e. the second height).
[0050] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, number of the first type of ribs is equal to the number of second type of ribs. The first type of ribs and the second type of ribs are arranged alternately to each other. The alternate arrangement of the first type of ribs and the second type of ribs reduce weight of the cable 100. In addition, the alternate arrangement of the first type of ribs and the second type of ribs reduces friction in the cable 100. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, number of the first type of ribs is 9. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, number of the first type of ribs may vary. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, number of the second type of ribs is 9. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, number of the second type of ribs may vary.
[0051] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, number of the plurality of ribs 104 (first type of ribs and second type of ribs) is 18. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, number of the plurality of ribs 104 may vary. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, number of the plurality of grooves 106 in the cable 100 is 18. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, number of the plurality of grooves 106 may vary.
[0052] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, area of the cable 100 corresponding to 18 ribs is about 42.17 millimeter square. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, area of the cable 100 may vary depending upon internal diameter of the cable, external diameter of the cable, number of the plurality of ribs 104. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the cable 100 has deformation of about 0.45 under crushing load at 500 Newton per 100 millimeter. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, deformation of the cable 100 may vary. In addition, deformation of the cable 100 may vary depending upon the plurality of parameters. The plurality of parameters includes but may not be limited to number of the plurality of ribs 104 and number of internal grooves of the plurality of grooves 106, width and height of the plurality of ribs 104 and the plurality of grooves 106, inside and outside diameter of the cable 100, number of the plurality of strength members 108 in the sheath 102, and material grade of the cable 100. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the plurality of ribs 104 and the plurality of grooves 106 of the cable 100 (of FIG. 5) are arranged alternately to each other on the outer surface of the sheath 102.
[0053] In an example, height of the first type of ribs of the cable 100 i.e. the first height is 0.5 millimeter. In addition, height of the second type of ribs of the cable 100 i.e. the second height is 0.25 millimeter. In another example, height of the first type of ribs (i.e. the first height) of the cable 100 may vary. In addition, height of the second type of ribs (i.e. the second height) of the cable 100 may vary. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, height of each of the plurality of grooves 106 is equal. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, height of each of the plurality of grooves 106 may vary.
[0054] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the alternate arrangement of the first type of ribs and the second type of ribs enables high crushing performance. In addition, the first type of ribs support the second type of ribs when a fixed crush load is applied on the cable 100 that enables high crushing performance as compared to the similar design of cable where all the ribs having equal height. Further, number of the first type of ribs and the second type of ribs is an odd number. Furthermore, the odd number of the first type of ribs and the second type of ribs ensures that each of the first type of ribs is diametrically opposite to corresponding rib of the second type of ribs. Moreover, the odd number of the first type of ribs and the second type of ribs eliminates dependency on orientation of the fixed crush load on the cable 100.
[0055] In an example, the sheath 102 having more number of the first type of ribs (large sized ribs) has small lateral deformations. Adjacent ribs provide support to cross section of the cable 100 when the cable starts to deform and take an elliptical shape. In another example, the sheath 102 have less number of plurality of ribs 104. The plurality of ribs 104 are more spaced out in the sheath 102 due to less number of plurality of ribs 104. In addition, the sheath 102 with less number of plurality of ribs 104 does not provide support to cross section of the cable 100 even at low forces.
[0056] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the plurality of ribs 104 and the plurality of grooves 106 are extruded longitudinally along length of the cable 100 (as shown in FIG. 6). In another embodiment of the present disclosure, the plurality of ribs 104 and the plurality of grooves 106 are extruded helically along length of the cable 100 (as shown in FIG. 7). In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the plurality of ribs 104 and the plurality of grooves 106 are extruded in SZ fashion. In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the plurality of ribs 104 and the plurality of grooves 106 may be extruded in any suitable shape.
[0057] FIG. 8 illustrates the design of the sheath of the cable 100. The cable 100 includes the sheath 102. The sheath 102 includes the plurality of ribs 104, the plurality of grooves 106, and the plurality of strength members 108. The plurality of ribs 104 includes the first type of ribs and the second type of ribs. Each rib of the first type of ribs has large size. Each rib of the second type of ribs has a smaller size as compared to the first type of ribs. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, height of each of the first type of ribs (i.e. the first height) is larger than height of each of the second type of ribs (i.e. the second height). In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the plurality of grooves 106 of the cable 100 includes internal grooves and external grooves. The internal grooves of the plurality of grooves 106 are formed on an inner surface of the sheath 102.
[0058] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, number of the first type of ribs is equal to the number of second type of ribs. The first type of ribs and the second type of ribs are arranged alternately to each other. The alternate arrangement of the first type of ribs and the second type of ribs reduces weight of the cable 100. In addition, the alternate arrangement of the first type of ribs and the second type of ribs reduces friction in the cable 100. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, number of the first type of ribs is 6. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, number of the first type of ribs may vary. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, number of the second type of ribs is 6. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, number of the second type of ribs may vary. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, number of the plurality of ribs 104 (first type of ribs and second type of ribs) is 12. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, number of the plurality of ribs 104 may vary.
[0059] The cable 100 includes the plurality of grooves 106. In addition, the plurality of grooves 106 corresponds to the internal grooves. The plurality of ribs 104 surrounds the plurality of grooves 106. The plurality of grooves 106 (the internal grooves) are formed on the inner surface of the sheath 102. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, number of the internal grooves on the inner surface of the sheath 102 is 6. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, number of the internal grooves on the inner surface of the sheath 102 may vary.
[0060] FIGs. 9, 10 and 11 illustrate various designs of the sheath of the cable 100. The cable 100 includes the plurality of optical fibers (not shown) and the sheath 102. The sheath 102 has the plurality of ribs 104, the plurality of grooves 106 and the plurality of strength members 108. The sheath 102 encloses the plurality of optical fibers. The plurality of grooves 106 on the outer surface of the sheath 102 may be called as the plurality of external grooves or external grooves. The plurality of grooves 106 on the inner surface of the sheath 102 may be called as the plurality of internal grooves or internal grooves. Similarly, the plurality of ribs 104 on the outer surface of the sheath 102 may be called as the plurality of external ribs or external ribs. The plurality of ribs 104 on the inner surface of the sheath 102 may be called as the plurality of internal ribs or internal ribs.
[0061] The plurality of ribs 104 includes a first type of ribs and a second type of ribs. Each rib of the first type of ribs may have large size than each rib of the second type of ribs. Alternatively, each rib of the first type of ribs may have smaller size than each rib of the second type of ribs. The cable 100 having the plurality of ribs 104 may have at least two heights. The first type of ribs may have the first height and the second type of ribs may have the second height. The first type of ribs may have larger height than of the second type of ribs. Alternatively, the first type of ribs may have smaller height than of the second type of ribs. Alternatively, the first type of ribs and the second type of ribs may have same size and height.
[0062] The plurality of ribs 104 and the plurality of grooves 106 of the cable 100 are arranged alternately to each other on the outer surface of the sheath 102. The height (i.e. the first height) of the first type of ribs and the height (i.e. the second height) of the second type of ribs of the cable 100 may vary. Further, height of each of the plurality of grooves 106 is equal. Alternatively, height of each of the plurality of grooves 106 may vary.
[0063] The first height may be in a range of 0.2-1.0 millimeter and the second height may be in the range of 0.1-0.5 millimeter. Alternatively, the first height may be in the range of 0.1-0.5 millimeter and the second height may be in the range of 0.2-1.0 millimeter. Further, the plurality of ribs 104 may have a width in the range of 0.8-6.5 millimeter. Furthermore, the plurality of grooves 106 may have a width in the range of 0.8-6.5 millimeter.
[0064] In one implementation, number of the first type of ribs is equal to the number of second type of ribs. The first type of ribs and the second type of ribs are arranged alternately to each other. The alternate arrangement of the first type of ribs and the second type of ribs reduce weight of the cable 100. Further, the alternate arrangement of the first type of ribs and the second type of ribs reduces friction in the cable 100. In an example (as shown in FIG. 9), number of the first type of ribs is 5 and number of the second type of ribs is 5. In another example, (as shown in FIG. 10), number of the first type of ribs is 10 and number of the second type of ribs is 10. Referring to FIG. 11, number of the first type of ribs and the second type of ribs may be 5 each. The number of the first type of ribs and the number of the second type of ribs may vary.
[0065] In other words, number of the plurality of ribs 104 (first type of ribs and second type of ribs) is 10 (as shown in FIG. 9). Alternatively, number of the plurality of ribs 104 (first type of ribs and second type of ribs) is 20 (as shown in FIG. 10). Alternatively, number of the plurality of ribs 104 may vary. Similarly, number of the plurality of grooves 106 in the sheath 102 is 10 (as shown in FIG. 9). Alternatively, number of the plurality of grooves 106 in the sheath 102 is 20 (as shown in FIG. 10). Alternatively, number of the plurality of grooves 106 may vary.
[0066] Again referring to FIG. 11, the number of the plurality of ribs 104 is 10. Further, the number of the plurality of ribs 104 may vary. Similarly, number of the plurality of grooves 106 is 10. The number of the plurality of ribs 104 may vary.
[0067] The cable 100 corresponding to 10 and 20 ribs may have a diameter in a range of 11 to 13 millimeter. Alternatively, diameter of the cable 100 may vary depending upon number of the plurality of ribs 104. The cable 100 has a blowing of more than 1100 meters in the duct with an inner diameter of 14 millimeters and an outer diameter of 18 millimeters.
[0068] The alternate arrangement of the first type of ribs and the second type of ribs enables high crushing performance. The first type of ribs support the second type of ribs when a fixed crush load is applied on the cable 100 that enables high crushing performance as compared to the similar design of cable where all the ribs having equal height.
[0069] In an implementation, number of the first type of ribs and the second type of ribs is an odd number. The odd number of the first type of ribs and the second type of ribs ensures that each of the first type of ribs is diametrically opposite to corresponding rib of the second type of ribs. Moreover, the odd number of the first type of ribs and the second type of ribs eliminates dependency on orientation of the fixed crush load on the cable 100.
[0070] In an example, the sheath 102 having more number of the first type of ribs (large sized ribs) has small lateral deformations. Adjacent ribs provide support to cross section of the cable 100 when the cable starts to deform and take an elliptical shape. In another example, the sheath 102 have less number of plurality of ribs 104. The plurality of ribs 104 are more spaced out in the sheath 102 due to less number of plurality of ribs 104. In addition, the sheath 102 with less number of plurality of ribs 104 does not provide support to cross section of the cable 100 even at low forces.
[0071] The plurality of ribs 104 and the plurality of grooves 106 may be extruded longitudinally along length of the cable 100. Alternatively, the plurality of ribs 104 and the plurality of grooves 106 are extruded helically along length of the cable 100. Alternatively, the plurality of ribs 104 and the plurality of grooves 106 are extruded in SZ fashion. Alternatively, the plurality of ribs 104 and the plurality of grooves 106 may be extruded in any suitable shape.
[0072] Referring to FIGs. 1 through 11, the sheath 102 and the plurality of external ribs 104 may be made of same material such as polyvinylchloride, polyethylene (such as High Density Poly Ethylene (HDPE), Medium Density Poly Ethylene, and Low Density Poly Ethylene), polyurethane, thermoplastic rubber/elastomer, thermoplastic chlorinated polyethylene, thermoset polyolefins or combination thereof. Alternatively, the sheath 102 and the plurality of external ribs 104 may be made of different materials. The plurality of external ribs 104 and the plurality of external grooves 106 are one or more of a rectangular shape with rounded edges, a pointy triangle shape, a circular shape, a curve-type shape or other suitable shape. Further, the plurality of external ribs 104 has a height (first height or second height or both) in a range of 0.1-2.0 millimeters, the plurality of external ribs 104 has a width in a range of 0.4-20 millimeters and the plurality of external grooves 106 has a width in a range of 0.4-20 millimeters. Furthermore, the optical fiber cable 100 has a diameter in a range of 11 to 13 millimeters, wherein the optical fiber cable has a blowing of more than 1100 meters in the duct with an inner diameter of 14 millimeters and an outer diameter of 18 millimeters. The plurality of internal ribs have the height in the range of 0.1-1.0 millimeter and the width in the range of 1.2-2.5 millimeters. Further, the plurality of internal grooves have the width in the range of 1.2-2.5 millimeters.
[0073] The present invention provides various advantages over the prior art. The cable of the present disclosure includes the plurality of ribs and the plurality of grooves that reduces mass of the cable while increasing free space for optical fibers or ribbons in the cable. The cable has large and irregular surface area that increases drag force of the cable. The increase in drag force enhances blowing performance of the cable. In addition, the plurality of ribs and the plurality of grooves reduces coefficient of friction between the sheath and the duct. Further, the cable has better crushing behaviour due to different sizes of the plurality of ribs that are arranged alternately to each other.
[0074] The foregoing descriptions of pre-defined embodiments of the present technology have been presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present technology to the precise forms disclosed, and obviously many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the present technology and its practical application, to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best utilize the present technology and various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. It is understood that various omissions and substitutions of equivalents are contemplated as circumstance may suggest or render expedient, but such are intended to cover the application or implementation without departing from the spirit or scope of the claims of the present technology.

We claim:

1. An optical fiber cable (100) comprising:
a plurality of optical fibers; and
a sheath (102), wherein the sheath (102) has an outer surface and an inner surface, wherein the outer surface of the sheath (102) has a plurality of external ribs (104) and a plurality of external grooves (106), wherein the plurality of external ribs (104) has at least two heights.
2. The optical fiber cable (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of external ribs (104) includes at least a first height and a second height.
3. The optical fiber cable (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of external ribs (104) having the first height and the second height are arranged alternately throughout the outer surface of the sheath (102) of the optical fiber cable (100).
4. The optical fiber cable (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of external ribs (104) having the first height and the second height are arranged in such a way that the plurality of external ribs (104) having the first height and the plurality of external ribs (104) having the second height are positioned diagonally opposite to each other.
5. The optical fiber cable (100) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the first height is in a range of 0.2-1.0 millimeters and the second height is in the range of 0.1-0.5 millimeters.
6. The optical fiber cable (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of external ribs (104) has a width in the range of 1.2-2.5 millimeters and the plurality of external grooves (106) has a width in the range of 1.2-2.5 millimeters.
7. The optical fiber cable (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein a shape of the plurality of external ribs (104) and the plurality of external grooves (106) is one or more of a rectangular shape with rounded edges, a pointy triangle shape, a circular shape, a curve-type shape or any suitable shape.
8. The optical fiber cable (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the sheath (102) and the plurality of external ribs (104) are made of same material such as High Density Poly Ethylene (HDPE).
9. The optical fiber cable (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the sheath (102) and the plurality of external ribs (104) are made of different materials.
10. The optical fiber cable (100) as claimed in claim 1 has a diameter in the range of 11 to 13 millimeters and has a blowing of more than 1100 meters in a duct with an inner diameter of 14 millimeters and an outer diameter of 18 millimeters.
11. An optical fiber cable (100) comprising:
a plurality of optical fibers; and
a sheath (102), wherein the sheath (102) has an outer surface and an inner surface, wherein the inner surface of the sheath (102) has a plurality of internal ribs (104) and a plurality of internal grooves (106).

12. The optical fiber cable (100) as claimed in claim 11, wherein the plurality of internal ribs (104) and the plurality of internal grooves (106) are arranged alternately throughout the inner surface of the sheath (102).
13. The optical fiber cable (100) as claimed in claim 11, wherein the plurality of internal grooves (106) is made to reduce weight of the optical fiber cable (100).
14. The optical fiber cable (100) as claimed in claim 11, wherein the sheath (102) and the plurality of internal ribs (104) are made of same material such as High Density Poly Ethylene (HDPE).
15. The optical fiber cable (100) as claimed in claim 11, wherein the sheath (102) and the plurality of internal ribs (104) are made of different materials.
16. The optical fiber cable (100) as claimed in claim 11, wherein a shape of the plurality of internal ribs (104) and the plurality of internal grooves (106) is one or more of a rectangular shape with rounded edges, a pointy triangle shape, a circular shape, a curve-type shape or any suitable shape.
17. The optical fiber cable (100) as claimed in claim 11, wherein the plurality of internal ribs (104) has a height in a range of 0.1-1.0 millimeter.
18. The optical fiber cable (100) as claimed in claim 11, wherein the plurality of internal ribs (104) has a width in the range of 1.2-2.5 millimeters and the plurality of internal grooves (106) has the width in the range of 1.2-2.5 millimeters.