US Patent:
20130064518, Mar 14, 2013
Inventors:
Edward M. Kolvek - Merrimac MA, US
Dennis P. Bowler - Sudbury MA, US
Barry Lavoie - Lowell MA, US
Gerard A. Esposito - Chelmsford MA, US
Assignee:
BAE Systems Information and Electronic Systems Integration Inc. - Nashua NH
International Classification:
G02B 6/44
Abstract:
A cross axis cable management system comprising a bird cage mechanism, a clock spring mechanism and a rolling loop mechanism positioned about a first axis, second axis and third axis of a gimbal mechanism respectively. Each mechanism provides defined channels and protective elements to prevent cable damage. The mechanisms also have one fixed end, one rotational end, and an optimized amount of slack for repeatable cable motion. The system effectively manages a large number of conventional and fiber optic cables while minimizing the friction or drag associated with the motion about the multiple axes and preventing cable damage and the resultant loss of performance.