Package of strand and a method of manufacturing the same

A self-supporting package of strand is disclosed. The disclosed method of manufacturing a package of strand is directed to the bulk collection of the strand. The disclosed strand collection system includes an attenuator that attenuates filaments from a bushing. The attenuator includes a pair of belts between which the strand is pinched to pull the filaments from the bushing. The attenuator directs the strand to a deflector assembly that slows down and imparts a degree of movement to the strand. The deflector assembly includes primary and secondary deflector surfaces which the strand engages. After the strand deflects off the secondary deflector surface, it is directed into a container assembly. The attenuator and deflector assembly traverse above the container assembly to deposit the strand. The container assembly is periodically vibrated by a vibrating mechanism as it collects strand. The vibrations settle and shift the strand in the container assembly for better strand distribution. The container assembly includes an outer container with perforations through which air and water can flow to remove moisture from the package. The container assembly also includes an inner container that provides support during the shipping of the package after the outer container is removed. After the strand has filled the container assembly, the container assembly and strand is dielectrically dried. The package may include intra-package splices of the strand if the strand breaks during the collection process. The strand collection system couples filaments or strands together to reduce or eliminate slippage of the strands when they are pulled from the package. The links are referred to as authentic links. When the strands have been coupled, the strands are easily and accurately run out of the package.