A bundle of fiber optic elements functions as the mechanical (usually tensile) load bearing member in telemetry applications calling for the transfer of data between two points. The superior data transfer capabilities of optical fibers, for example, elmiination of cross-talk between adjacent fibers and immunity from ambient electromagnetic interference, are realized by modifying load bearing structures to include the optical fibers. The substantial tensile load bearing capacity of narrow diameter, light weight glass fibers more than adequately supports considerable loads at a fraction of the weight and bulk of a conventional cable. After an electro-optical conversion has been made at one end of the optical fibers, image intensifier or similar devices optionally, are included to further enhance the degree of reliability of the optical radiation representative of data.
STRENGTH MEMBERS AND STRUCTURAL COMPONENTS INTEGRALLY CONTAINING FIBER OPTIC ELEMENTS