WO2004069474A1 - Apparatus and method for polishing a fiber optic connector - Google Patents
Apparatus and method for polishing a fiber optic connector Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- WO2004069474A1 WO2004069474A1 PCT/US2004/002135 US2004002135W WO2004069474A1 WO 2004069474 A1 WO2004069474 A1 WO 2004069474A1 US 2004002135 W US2004002135 W US 2004002135W WO 2004069474 A1 WO2004069474 A1 WO 2004069474A1
- Authority
- WO
- WIPO (PCT)
- Prior art keywords
- polishing
- fiber optic
- pads
- fixture
- sub
- Prior art date
Links
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B24—GRINDING; POLISHING
- B24B—MACHINES, DEVICES, OR PROCESSES FOR GRINDING OR POLISHING; DRESSING OR CONDITIONING OF ABRADING SURFACES; FEEDING OF GRINDING, POLISHING, OR LAPPING AGENTS
- B24B19/00—Single-purpose machines or devices for particular grinding operations not covered by any other main group
- B24B19/22—Single-purpose machines or devices for particular grinding operations not covered by any other main group characterised by a special design with respect to properties of the material of non-metallic articles to be ground
- B24B19/226—Single-purpose machines or devices for particular grinding operations not covered by any other main group characterised by a special design with respect to properties of the material of non-metallic articles to be ground of the ends of optical fibres
Definitions
- the present invention relates generally to an apparatus and method for manufacturing fiber optic connectors. More particularly, the present invention relates to an apparatus and method for polishing fiber optic connectors to improve the performance characteristics of the connectors.
- Fiber optic connectors are used to terminate the ends of fiber optic cables ' .
- fiber optic connector types There are many different fiber optic connector types.
- Example types of fiber optic connectors include FC-type, SC-type, ST-type and D4-type.
- FIG. 1 shows a typical connector 10.
- a ferrule 12 is located inside the connector 10.
- the ferrule 12 is a relatively long, thin cylinder preferably made of a material such as ceramic. Other materials such as metal or plastic can also be used to make the ferrule 12.
- the ferrule 12 defines a central opening 14 sized to receive a fiber 16 of a given cladding diameter. An epoxy is typically placed into the opening 14 prior to inserting the fiber 16 to hold the fiber 16 in place.
- the ferrule 12 functions to align and center the fiber 16, as well as to protect it from : damage.
- the ferrule 12 is supported within a connector body 18 typically made of a material such as metal or plastic.
- the connector body 18 is typically bonded to fiber optic cable 20 (e.g., the cable 20 can include a reinforcing layer made of a material such as Kevlar that is affixed to the connector 18).
- a strain relief boot 22 protects the junction between the connector 18 and the cable 20.
- -Two connectors are preferably interconnected through the use of an adapter 24.
- Adapter 24 includes a sleeve 26 sized to receive the ferrules of the connectors desired to be connected. For example, ferrule 12 of connector 10 is inserted into a first end 28 of the sleeve 26, while a ferrule (not shown) of a connector desired to be connected to the connector 10 is inserted into a second end 30 of the sleeve 26.
- Insertion loss is the measurement of the amount of power that is transferred through a coupling from an input fiber to an output fiber.
- Return loss is the measurement of the amount of power that is reflected back into the input fiber.
- the end 13 is polished to form a spherical polished surface oriented along a plane that is perpendicular with respect to the longitudinal axis of the fiber 16.
- the end 13 is polished to form a spherical surface aligned at an oblique angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the fiber 13.
- FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the steps of a convention ferrule polishing technique for providing a rounded ferrule tip.
- a hackle of the fiber and residue epoxy are removed from the ferrule tip typically by a hand-sanding process or automated system such as an epoxy removal machine.
- the tip of the ferrule is machine polished using two or more polishing films (e.g., of varying coarseness) so as to more precisely form an apex and radius into the tip of the ferrule (see step 72).
- the tip of the ferrule is machine polished with a final polish film as indicated by step 74.
- a final polish film is formed at the tip of the fiber within the ferrule.
- the index layer has undesirable optical properties.
- the tip of the ferrule is polished with a cerium oxide film causing the fiber to be recessed slightly into the ferrule a distance sufficient to remove the index layer.
- the tip is recessed prior to the final polish, as disclosed, for example, in U.S. patent application serial no. 10/07 1,856, filed February 8,2002, which is hereby incorporated by reference.
- One aspect of the present invention relates to a fiber optic connector polishing apparatus and method for polishing fiber optic connectors to improve the performance characteristics of the connectors.
- a variety of advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description that follows, and in part will be apparent from the description, or may be learned by practicing the invention. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the invention as claimed.
- Figure 1 illustrates a typical prior art connector
- Figure 2 illustrates a prior art polishing technique
- Figure 3 is a perspective plan view of an example embodiment of a polishing apparatus made in accordance with the present invention.
- Figure 4 is front view of the example polishing apparatus of Figure 3;
- Figure 5 is a side view of the example polishing apparatus of Figure
- Figure 6 is a top view of the example polishing apparatus of Figure/3;
- Figure 7 is a perspective view of the polishing apparatus of Figure 3 with various components including a cover of the drive mechanism omitted for clarity;
- Figure 7A is a cross-sectional view taken along section line CC-CC of
- Figure 8 is a front view of the polishing apparatus of Figure 7;
- Figure 9 is a first side view of the polishing apparatus of Figure 7;
- Figure 10 is a second side view of the polishing apparatus of Figure 7;
- Figure 11 is a top view of the polishing apparatus of Figure 7;
- Figure 12 is a perspective plan view of an example embodiment of a fixture shown in isolation;
- Figure 13 is a side view of the fixture of Figure 12; .
- Figure 14 is a top view of the fixture of Figure 12; >
- Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view taken along section line A-A of Figure 14;
- Figure 16 is a first perspective plan view of an example embodiment of a polishing sub-assembly shown in isolation;
- Figure 17 is a second perspective view of the polishing sub-assembly of Figure 16;
- Figure 18 is a front view of the polishing sub-assembly of Figure 16;
- Figure 19 is a first side view of the polishing sub-assembly of Figure
- Figure 20 is a second side view of the polishing sub-assembly of Figure 16;
- Figure 21 is a top view of the polishing sub-assembly of Figure 16;
- Figure 22 is a cross-sectional view taken along section line B-B of
- Figure 23 is an enlarged view of a portion of the sub-assembly shown in Figure 22;
- Figure 24 is a cross-sectional view taken along section line C-C of Figure 21 of the polishing sub-assembly
- Figure 25 is an enlarged view of a portion of the polishing sub- assembly shown in Figure 24;
- Figure 26 is a front view of a portion of the example embodiment of the polishing apparatus with the fixtures in a nested position;
- Figure 27 is a cross-sectional view taken along section line D-D of
- Figure 28 is a cross-sectional view taken along section line D-D of Figure 26 illustrating the gripper arms coupled to the fixtures and the fixtures moved to an un-nested position;
- Figure 29 is a cross-sectional view taken along section line D-D of
- Figure 26 illustrating the fixtures in a pre-push position
- Figure 30 is a cross-sectional view taken along section line D-D of Figure 26 illustrating the fixtures in a post-push position
- Figure 31 is a cross-sectional view taken along section line D-D of Figure 26 illustrating the fixtures in position to begin the polishing cycle
- Figure 31 A is a enlarged view of a portion of the polishing sub- assembly illustrating the pad system in a raised position
- Figure 3 IB is a enlarged view of a portion of the polishing sub- assembly illustrating the pad system in a lowered position
- Figure 32 is a cross-sectional view taken along section line D-D of Figure 26 illustrating the fixtures moved in the Y' direction;
- Figure 33 is a cross-sectional view taken along section line D-D of Figure 26 illustrating the fixtures moved back in the Y direction to their initial position; ,
- Figure 34 is a cross-sectional view taken along section line D-D of Figure 26 illustrating the fixtures moved in the Y direction;
- Figure 35 is a cross-sectional view taken along section line D-D of Figure 26 illustrating the fixtures moved back in the Y' direction to their initial position;
- Figure 36 is a cross-sectional view taken along section line D-D of Figure 26 illustrating the fixtures moved in the X' direction;
- Figure 37 is a cross-sectional view taken along section line D-D of Figure 26 illustrating the fixtures moved back in the X direction to their initial position;
- Figure 38 is a cross-sectional view taken along section line D-D of Figure 26 illustrating the fixtures moved in the X direction;
- Figure 39 is a cross-sectional view taken along section line D-D of Figure 26 illustrating the fixtures moved back in the X' direction to their initial • position;
- Figure 40 is a cross-sectional view taken along section line D-D of Figure 26 illustrating the fixtures in the nested position;
- Figure 41 is a cross-sectional view taken along section line D-D of Figure 26 illustrating the gripper arms indexed in the X' direction;
- Figure 42 is a cross-sectional view taken along section line D-D of Figure 26 illustrating the fixtures indexed in the X direction one polishing sub- assembly. While the invention is amenable to various modifications and alternative forms, the specifics there have been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail below. It is to be understood, however, that the intention is not to limit the invention to a particular embodiment. On the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents and alternatives falling within the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.
- the disclosure generally relates to a polishing apparatus for polishing end faces of fiber optic connectors (e.g. end face 13 of the fiber optic connector 10 of Figure 1), such as the example embodiment of a polishing apparatus 100 as shown in Figures 3-6.
- the polishing apparatus 100 may generally include a support system 200 and one or more fixtures 400 configured to hold a plurality of fiber optic connectors.
- a drive mechanism 300 may be coupled to the support system to move the fixtures 400 in one or more directions.
- a polishing sub- assembly 500 including various components to polish the plurality of fiber optic connectors held by the fixtures 400.
- a control panel 700 for controlling the polishing apparatus 100 may also be provided.
- the polishing apparatus 100 includes the example support system 200.
- the support system 200 generally includes a support structure 210 that is configured to support the components of the polishing apparatus 100, including the fixtures 400, the drive mechanism 300, the polishing sub-assemblies 500, and the control panel 700. Also included is a drive mechanism cover 215 covering the drive mechanism 300, as well as an electrical components housing 230 covering various electrical components used to control the polishing apparatus 100.
- a plurality of fixed supports 240 (e.g., adjustable feet) and wheels 245 are also provided to allow for the support and relocation of the polishing apparatus 100.
- a plurality of cable supports 220 is also provided.
- the cable supports 220 generally function to hold an end segment of one or more fiber optic cables and allow the end segment to extend through the cable support 220 and over the fixtures 400.
- this fiber optic cable 219 may include a plurality of smaller cables 221, each being terminated by a connector, such as the connector 10.
- the larger cable is maintained on a separate support (not shown) positioned adjacent each cable support 220.
- An end segment 219a of the larger cable is extended through the cable support 220, and each of the connectors 10 of each of the smaller cables 221 contained therein are held by fixtures 400 positioned below each cable support 220.
- the cable supports 220 are mounted to a railway 225 and are configured to slide along the railway 225 as the fixtures 400 are moved, as described in detail below.
- the railway 225 may be supported separately from the polishing apparatus 100, as is shown in the example embodiment.
- the railway 225 may be coupled to and supported by the polishing apparatus 100.
- the drive mechanism generally includes a Y-table 302 and an X-table 304 (see Figures 9 and 10).
- the Y- table 302 includes a Y-drive 310 and bearings 303 (see also Figures 27-42) that are mounted to a flat support 250 of the support system 200.
- the Y-table 302 is coupled to the Y-drive 310 and the bearings 303 50 that the Y-drive 310 can move the Y-table 302 forward in a Y direction and backward in a Y 1 direction.
- the X-table 304 is coupled to a bottom of the Y-table 302 so that the X- table 304 also moves with the Y-table 302 in the Y and Y* directions.
- the X- table 304 is coupled to the Y-table using bearings 305 (see Figures 27-42) and includes an X- drive 315 mounted to a support 255 coupled by supports 256 to the support 250 and extending over the X and N tables 302 and 304.
- the X-drive 315 can, through the X-drive shaft 319, cause the X- table 304 to move in an X direction and opposite X' direction.
- the X-table 304 also moves in the Y and Y' directions because the bearing 316 rides along the rail 317, allowing . the X-table 304 to move in the Y and Y* directions while the X-drive shaft 319 and the X-drive 315 remains stationary or moves in the XI and X' directions.
- the X-table 304 is, in turn, coupled to each of the plurality of fixtures
- the drive mechanism 300 can move the fixtures 400 in ; , both the X, X', Y, and Y' directions or a combination thereof.
- Both the V-drive 310 and the X-drive 315 are coupled directly to the support system 200 and are mounted in a fixed position (i.e. the N-drive is fixedly mounted to the support 250 and the X-drive is fixedly connected to the support 255).
- any supporting components such as electrical cords (if the V and X-drivers are electrically driven, as is the case in the example embodiment shown) or air housing (if the N and X- drives are pneumatically driven) are held in a stationary position, thereby eliminating any flexure which may cause stress and subsequent failure; and (2) fixedly-coupling the drives may reduce or eliminate possible fluctuations in movement in the V, Y', X, and X' directions due to vibration and/or other disturbances transmitted to the N and X-drives.
- any supporting components such as electrical cords (if the V and X-drivers are electrically driven, as is the case in the example embodiment shown) or air housing (if the N and X- drives are pneumatically driven) are held in a stationary position, thereby eliminating any flexure which may cause stress and subsequent failure; and (2) fixedly-coupling the drives may reduce or eliminate possible fluctuations in movement in the V, Y', X, and X' directions due to vibration and/or other disturbances transmitted to the N and X
- each fixture 400 includes a plurality of connector locations 410 sized to each receive a body of a fiber optic connector (e.g., connector body 18 of the fiber optic connector 10 shown in Figure 1) and allow an end face of each fiber optic connector (e.g., end face 13) to extend through each connector location 410.
- each fixture 400 includes six connector locations 410 so that each fixture 400 can hold six connectors.
- the fixture can be configured with more or fewer connector locations to hold more or fewer connectors, such as, for example, three connector locations to hold three connectors.
- Each fixture 400 includes a main body 415.
- a plurality of moveable connecting slates 417 is coupled to the main body 415.
- the slates 417 cooperate with the main body 415 to define a plurality of nests 419 for receiving connectors 10.
- each nest 419 includes a half-nest 419a defined by the main body 415 and a half-nest 419b defined by a corresponding slate 41-7.
- Each connecting slate 417 is coupled to the main body 415 using two fasteners (e.g., screws 420) threaded within openings 421 defined by the main body 415.
- Each screw 420 includes one or more "belville” washers to provide clamping force and compliance to allow the clamps to open.
- small metallic balls (not shown) are positioned in apertures 422 formed in a surface 424 of the main body 415 so that, when the connecting slates 417 are coupled to the main body 415, the balls are sandwiched between the main body 415 and the connecting slates 417.
- the screws 420 and the balls allow the connecting slates 417 to pivot with respect to the main body 415 and thereby increase the opening of the j connector locations 410 to facilitate the introduction and removal of each fiber optic connector into and out of each fixture 400.
- each connector body can also be used to hold each connector body within the fixture.
- the fixtures can be configured to clamp on the boot of each connector, and each fixture can include a close-tolerance hole through which the end face of each ferrule extends to be polished. This may be advantageous in that only a portion of the ferrule, including the end face, extends through the fixture to the polishing sub-assembly, so that the remainder of the connector body is isolated from any debris generated during polishing.
- both an upper portion of a connector, such as the boot, as well as the ferrule can be clamped by the fixture to hold the connector in place during polishing. Other configurations are also possible.
- each fixture 400 also includes a gripping feature 430 positioned on one end of the fixture 400.
- the gripping feature 430 is shaped to allow a gripping arm 360, which is mounted to the X-table 304, to grab and manipulate each fixture 400.
- the gripping feature 430 includes first and second opposing projections 432 and 434 that fit into a complementary geometry of the gripping arm 360.
- the gripper arm 360 further includes an air cylinder 364 coupled to the gripper arm 360 which causes a piston 362 to project against the projection 434 on the fixture 400, thereby further holding the fixture 400 in the gripper arm 360 and level with the polishing sub-assemblies described below.
- the fixture 400 includes resting surfaces 435 used to support the fixture 400 when it is in a nested position, as described further below.
- the fixture 400 is further designed to be used to hold the connectors
- polishing such as, for example, epoxy dispense, curing, and cleaving.
- the polishing sub-assembly 500 may generally include a pad system 510 (shown in Figure 22), a polishing film system 540 (shown in Figure 17), a fluid injection system 570 (shown in Figure 23), and an optional rinsing system 580 (shown in Figure 16).
- a circular tube guide 590 may also be provided to guide various wires and supply tubes, such as, for example, electrical wires, pressurized air tubes, and fluid tubes, into and out of the polishing sub-assembly 500.
- polishing sub-assembly 500 Although only a single polishing sub-assembly 500 is described in detail below, a plurality of polishing sub-assemblies 500 may be included with the polishing apparatus 100. In the illustrated embodiment, four polishing sub- assemblies are provided so that four fixtures including connectors contained therein can be processed at one time. In alternative embodiments, more or fewer sub- assemblies can be provided to handle more or fewer fixtures at one time, such as, for example, between one and ten polishing sub-assemblies.
- the pad system 510 is shown, for example, in Figures 22-25.
- the pad system 510 generally includes a plurality of pads 511 and corresponding pad shafts 512, preferably one pad 511 and one pad shaft 512 for each connector location 410 of each fixture 400.
- Each pad 511 is coupled to a first end of the pad shaft 512.
- a second end of the pad shaft 512 is coupled to a piston 515 positioned in a bore 516.
- the shaft 512 and attached pad 511 are moved in a vertical direction upward towards a connector held in the fixture 400 above the pad 511 (see Figure 31 A).
- Guides 513 and 514 assure that the pad is held in a known orientation (e.g., vertical) as it moves vertically up towards the connectors.
- each bore 516 on the polishing sub-assembly 500 is fed air from a common air manifold 517 (see Figure 16). Therefore, each bore 516 preferably receives the same air pressure provided by the air manifold. In this manner, each pad 511 may engage each end face 13 at an equal force regardless of the position of each end face 13 with respect to each pad 511.
- pressure provided to each pad can be independently controlled, if desired.
- the pad system 510 utilizes a system of linear bearings so that each pad shaft and pad can be moved upwardly and downwardly with respect to the remainder of the polishing sub-assembly 500.
- other systems allowing the necessary movement of the pad shaft and pad can be used, such as, for example, a parallel linkage mechanism. This alternate type of mechanism may be advantageous to reduce the friction associated with the movement of the pad shaft.
- a system (not shown) can be provided to regulate the rate of accent of the pads towards the ferrules of the connectors.
- each pad 511 or pad shaft 512 can be coupled to a cam that rotates as the pad moves upward to contact a ferrule. The cam can be regulated to control the rate of accession-... After the pad contacts the ferrule and polishing begins, the ' pad and/or pad shaft is released from the cam. This may be advantageous so that the pads contact the, ferrules with at a given rate.
- the pads 511 are made of Neoprene.
- Other materials may also be used, such as Buna N, viton, urethane, silicone, etc. or any other material that can withstand deionized water or other fluids used and can be manufactured with the desired durometer (i.e., stiffness) for a given polishing application.
- the polishing film system 540 generally includes polishing film 542, a spool 546, a used film collection bin 544, a pincher roller 548, and a plurality of rollers. New polishing film is provided on the spool 546.
- the polishing film 542 is directed around a tension roller 555, with tension being maintained by tension shaft 551 (see Figure 19), and through a series of rollers 560, 561, and 562. Preferably, the polishing film 542 travels over roller 560, under roller 561, and over roller 562.
- any fluid maintained on the polishing film 542 falls into a drip tray 563 rather than running down the polishing film 542 and onto the new polishing film maintained on the spool 546 or into the used film collection bin 544.
- 3M Imperial Diamond Lapping Film with a one micron grit manufactured by Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing of St. Paul, Minnesota was used as the polishing film 542.
- the polishing film 542 then travels over the plurality of pads 551 and then over and under a second series of rollers 564, 565, and 566, with a trap 567 functioning similarly to the drip tray 563.
- the polishing film 542 then runs through the pincher roller 548 that engages the polishing film 542 with opposing rollers 552 and 553 driven by motor 569 and belt 568 used to index the polishing film, as described below.
- This indexing can be configurable, as desired, to control the amount of polishing film reuse.
- the used polishing film falls into the used film collection bin 544.
- a second spool can also be used to maintain the used polishing film prior to discarding it.
- Polishing the end face 13 of a connector 10 can be accomplished by compressing the end face 13 against the polishing film 542, such as with the pad system 510. With the connector 10 compressed against the polishing film 542, the connector 10 can be moved in a sequence of patterns over the polishing film 542, thereby polishing the end face 13.
- a plurality of polishing sub-assemblies 500 may be provided, with each polishing sub-assembly having a difference coarseness of polishing film 542. For example, coarse, medium, and fine polishing grades of polishing film can be used. In this configuration, the end face 13 can be sequentially polished with the different grades of polishing film to a desired polished state.
- the fluid injection system 570 includes a plurality of jet bars 572 positioned to extend parallel to a longitudinal direction of the fixtures 400 between adjacent connectors and over the polishing film 542.
- Each jet bar 572 includes a series of jets 574 formed in the bar 572.
- the jets 574 dehver a series of streams of de-ionized water onto the polishing film 542.
- each jet bar 572 is configured to move as each fixture is moved to polish the connectors contained therein. In alternative embodiments, each jet bar 572 can be fixed in place.
- the de-ionized water functions to facilitate the movement of the end faces 13 of each connector 10 over the polishing film 542, as well as to clean and remove debris from the polishing film 542 and the end faces 13 of the connectors 10.
- other types of fluid such as a slurry of alcohol and water mixes may be used in place of the de-ionized water.
- fluid injection system 570 may be fully programmable to allow the water to be turned on and off during each cycle as desired.
- each jet bar 572 further includes alignment pins 576 positioned on opposite sides and extending below the level of the polishing film 542.
- the alignment pins 576 function to hold the polishing film 542 onto each pad 511 as polishing occurs.
- the fluid injection system 570 further includes a series of steel plates 578 positioned between each pad 511.
- Each plate 578 includes a contact surface 579 of limited surface area.
- the contact surface 579 of each plate 578 extends above each pad 511 and makes contact and supports the polishing film 542.
- the small contact area between the plates 578 and the polishing film 542 can be advantageous in that if the film 542 is left in contact with the plates 578 for an extended period of time (e.g., when the polishing apparatus is not used for a period of time), there is little surface area of each plate 578 on which the polishing film 542 can adhere.
- the optional rinsing system 580 may also be provided on the polishing sub-assembly 500, if desired.
- the rinsing system 580 generally includes a roller 582 and a fluid supply 584 (see Figure 16), in the example embodiment de-ionized water.
- the roller 582 may be made of any compliant material that becomes saturated with water, such as, for example, a foam material.
- the fluid supply 584 runs through the roller 582 and small holes in the supply 584 positioned within the roller 582 allow the water to escape outwardly into the roller 582, thereby saturating the roller 582 with de-ionized water. In this manner, the roller 582 may be maintained in a saturated state, hi addition, the roller 582 may be mounted so that the roller 582 rotates about the supply 584.
- the roller 582 is position adjacent the pads 511 and fixtures 400 so that, as described below, when a fixture 400 is moved from one polishing sub- assembly to another, the end faces 13 of the connectors 10 maintained in each fixture 400 are caused to pass over and rub against the saturated roller 582, thereby causing the rollers 582 to spin and any debris on the end faces 13 of the connectors to be removed, i an alternative embodiment, each fixture 400 may be passed back and forth over the roller 582 multiple times to more thoroughly clean the end faces 13. In this manner, the end faces 13 can be maintained in a clean state.
- the Control Panel 700 functions to control the operation of the polishing apparatus 100, as described below. In addition to starting and stopping the apparatus 100, the control panel 700 may also be used to change polishing times, speeds, patterns, and other configurable parameters. In addition, the control panel 700 may include a computer-driven graphical user interface (GUI) to allow for ease of use. The GUI may include preset operational menu to allow a user to input different cable fiber types or product specifications to access pre-programmed polishing cycles. An emergency stop button 702 (see Figure 5) may also be included to stop the apparatus 100, if needed.
- GUI computer-driven graphical user interface
- the polishing apparatus 100 may be used according to the method described below and illustrated in the cross-sectional views of Figures 27-42 taken along line D-D of Figure 26. Throughout the steps provided below, movement of the Y-table 302 and the X-table 304 will be described and shown. Reference throughout the method illustrated in Figures 27-42 will be made generically to various like components using a generic reference number, while reference to a specific components will be made using a reference number qualified with a letter. For example, generic reference to all fixtures illustrated in Figures 27-42 will be made using 400, while reference to a specific fixture will be made using, for example, 400a.
- one or more fixtures 400 are guided to the example polishing apparatus 100.
- the fixtures may be guided manually, such as by hand-feeding the fixtures into the machine, or automatically, , such as by a conveyor system (not shown).
- the fixtures 400a, 400b, and 400c are positioned at a resting station prior to polishing by the apparatus 100.
- the fixtures 400i, and 400j have already completed the polishing by the apparatus 100 and are awaiting transport away, either manually or automatically.
- the fixtures 400e, 400f, 400g, and 400h are currently positioned over a respective polishing sub-assembly 500a, 500b, 500c, and 500d in a nested state.
- the resting surfaces 435 of each fixture 400 are resting on surfaces 280 and 281 of the support system 200.
- the surfaces 280 and 281 fully support the fixtures 400e, 400f, 400g, and 400h so that gripper arms 360a, 360b, 360c, and 360d can fully release the fixtures 400e, 400f, 400g, and 400h.
- a new fixture 400k has been added to the line of fixtures waiting to enter the polishing apparatus 100 and the fixture 400j, which had already completed polishing, has been removed, either manually or automatically.
- the fixtures 400d, 400e, 400f, and 400g have been grasped by the gripper arms 360a, 360b, 360c, and 360d, respectively, and the Y-table has been moved forward in the Y direction, thereby moving the fixtures 400d, 400e, 400f, and 400g forward.
- This can been seen by noting the relative positions of fixtures 400d, 400e, 400f, and 400g with respect to the other fixtures 400k, 400a, 400b, 400c, 400h, and 400i.
- this movement can . also be noted by examining the relative positions of the bearings 303 with respect to the rails 308.
- the grasping arms 360 have moved fixtures 400d, 400e, 400f, and 400g in the X direction towards the fixture 400h.
- the fixture 400g is positioned immediately adjacent the fixture 400h in a pre- push configuration.
- the grasping arms 360 move the fixtures 400d, 400e, 400f, and 400g further in the X direction, causing the fixture 400g ' to contact and push the fixture 400h, which has already undergone polishing, further along in the X direction and out of the way of the polishing (i.e. a post-push position).
- the grasping arms 360 have moved the fixtures 400d,
- the pad system is in a lowered position, as shown in Figure 31B.
- each pad system 510 of each sub-assembly 500 are raised using air pressure (see Figure 31 A), as described above.
- the polishing film 542 positioned to pass over the pads 511 is also raised and pressed against the end faces 13 of the ferrule 12 of each connector 10 held by each of the fixtures 400d, 400e, 400f, and 400g.
- each pad 511 acts separately to apply equal force to each end face 13 of each ferrule 12.
- the polishing film 542 is held by each pad 511 and biased against each connector 10 (such as is shown in, for example, Figures 23 and 25).
- a first step of a polishing cycle may include moving the fixtures 400d, 400e, 400f, and 400g in the Y' direction a given amount. In the example embodiment, this amount is approximately 1/2 inch, although other amounts can also be used as desired.
- the fixtures 400d, 400e, 400f, and 400g are moved in the Y direction back to their initial position.
- the fixtures 400d, 400e, 400f, and 400g are moved first in the Y direction a given amount (for example, 1/2 inch) (see Figure 34) and then are moved back in the Y 1 direction to their initial position (see Figure 35).
- the fixtures 400d, 400e, 400f, and 400g are nioved first in the X' direction a given amount (see Figure 36) and then are moved back in the X direction to their initial position (see Figure 37).
- the fixtures 400d, 400e, 400f, and 400g are moved first in the X direction a given amount (see Figure 38) and then are moved back in the X' direction to their initial position (see Figure 39).
- the movement illustrated in Figures 32-39 can constitute a single polishing cycle.
- This polishing cycle can be repeated a number of times, as desired, to polish the end face 13 of each of the plurality of connectors 10 held in each fixture 400.
- the polishing cycle is a combination of motion in the X and Y directions following a spiraling circular path at a constant speed.
- the shape of the path is fully programmable, as are the speeds, accelerations, and directions of the polishing cycle.
- the pad force and the fluid injection can also be controlled and altered during the pohshing cycle.
- a polishing cycle can be selected, as desired, to polish each connector 10 to meet certain specifications such as, for example, radius of curvature, apex offset, fiber height, surface finish, insertion loss, and return loss.
- the Pad System is Lowered and the Polishing Film is Indexed
- the pad system 510 including the plurality of pads 511 are lowered ( Figure 31 B), and the polishing film 542 also lowers with the pads 511.
- the polishing film 542 can then be indexed by the pincher roller 548 so that fresh polishing film is positioned over the pad system 510 for the next polishing cycle.
- 400e, 400f, and 400g are moved in the Y' direction.
- the gripper arms 360 then release each fixture, thereby docking the fixtures in the nest as shown in Figure 40.
- the gripper arms 360 (without the fixtures) are then indexed in the X direction so that the gripper arm 360a is positioned to grip the fixture 400c, the gripper arm 360b is positioned to grip the fixture 400d, the gripper arm 360c is positioned to grip the fixture 400e, and gripper arm 360d is positioned to grip the fixture 400f, as is shown in Figure 41.
- the gripper arms 360a, 360b, 360c, and 360e then grip the fixtures 400c, 400d, 400e, and 400f, respectively.
- the rinsing system 580 If the rinsing system 580 is provided, it is activated so that de-ionized water flows through and saturates' the roller 582.
- the fixtures 400c, 400d, 400e, and 400f are then indexed in the X direction one polishing sub-assembly 500, as shown in Figure 42.
- the end face 13 of the ferrule 12 of each connector 10 is caused to contact the roller 582, thereby removing any debris for each end face 13.
- each fixture 400 is passed back and forth over the roller 582 multiple times to further clean the end faces 13.
Abstract
Description
Claims
Priority Applications (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
EP04705310A EP1597021A1 (en) | 2003-01-31 | 2004-01-26 | Apparatus and method for polishing a fiber optic connector |
CN2004800031235A CN1744967B (en) | 2003-01-31 | 2004-01-26 | Apparatus and method for polishing a fiber optic connector |
MXPA05007919A MXPA05007919A (en) | 2003-01-31 | 2004-01-26 | Apparatus and method for polishing a fiber optic connector. |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US10/356,358 US6918816B2 (en) | 2003-01-31 | 2003-01-31 | Apparatus and method for polishing a fiber optic connector |
US10/356,358 | 2003-01-31 |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
WO2004069474A1 true WO2004069474A1 (en) | 2004-08-19 |
Family
ID=32770778
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
PCT/US2004/002135 WO2004069474A1 (en) | 2003-01-31 | 2004-01-26 | Apparatus and method for polishing a fiber optic connector |
Country Status (5)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (2) | US6918816B2 (en) |
EP (1) | EP1597021A1 (en) |
CN (1) | CN1744967B (en) |
MX (1) | MXPA05007919A (en) |
WO (1) | WO2004069474A1 (en) |
Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US9358657B1 (en) * | 2010-04-16 | 2016-06-07 | Commscope Technologies Llc | Recess forming tool for preparing fiber optic ferrule endfaces |
Families Citing this family (17)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
WO2004056532A1 (en) * | 2002-12-20 | 2004-07-08 | Sagitta Engineering Solutions Ltd. | A system and a method for polishing optical connectors |
US6918816B2 (en) * | 2003-01-31 | 2005-07-19 | Adc Telecommunications, Inc. | Apparatus and method for polishing a fiber optic connector |
US7068906B2 (en) * | 2004-06-14 | 2006-06-27 | Adc Telecommunications, Inc. | Fixture for system for processing fiber optic connectors |
US7352938B2 (en) * | 2004-06-14 | 2008-04-01 | Adc Telecommunications, Inc. | Drive for system for processing fiber optic connectors |
US7209629B2 (en) * | 2004-06-14 | 2007-04-24 | Adc Telecommunications, Inc. | System and method for processing fiber optic connectors |
CN102356339B (en) * | 2009-03-17 | 2013-11-13 | 3M创新有限公司 | Optical fiber polishing apparatus and method |
JP5714932B2 (en) * | 2011-02-16 | 2015-05-07 | エヌ・ティ・ティ・アドバンステクノロジ株式会社 | Polishing equipment |
US8771039B2 (en) | 2011-05-25 | 2014-07-08 | Avago Technologies General Ip (Singapore) Pte. Ltd. | Optical fiber polishing jig for use with optical connectors of differing sizes and types |
US8979395B2 (en) * | 2011-09-07 | 2015-03-17 | Adc Telecommunications, Inc. | Tools and methods for preparing a ferrule-less optical fiber connector |
US8985864B2 (en) | 2011-09-07 | 2015-03-24 | Adc Telecommunications, Inc. | Optical fiber alignment device and method |
US8985867B2 (en) | 2011-09-07 | 2015-03-24 | Adc Telecommunications, Inc. | Optical fiber connection system |
US9606302B2 (en) | 2013-03-15 | 2017-03-28 | Commscope Technologies Llc | Ferrules for fiber optic connectors |
CN105393152B (en) | 2013-05-20 | 2019-05-07 | Adc电信股份有限公司 | The export structure of cabling routing system |
WO2019152623A1 (en) | 2018-01-31 | 2019-08-08 | Commscope Technologies Llc | Tunable fiber optic connectors |
US11150419B2 (en) * | 2018-06-29 | 2021-10-19 | Corning Research & Development Corporation | Method of processing a ferrule and apparatus for carrying out the method |
WO2020205362A1 (en) * | 2019-03-29 | 2020-10-08 | Commscope Technologies Llc | Fiber optic connector fabrication carrier |
US20220299716A1 (en) * | 2019-08-30 | 2022-09-22 | Commscope Technologies Llc | Fiber carrier |
Citations (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
DE19752228A1 (en) * | 1996-11-26 | 1998-05-28 | Whitaker Corp | Universal polishing fixture for holding optical fibre connectors during polishing operation |
US6077154A (en) * | 1997-07-14 | 2000-06-20 | Seikoh Giken Co., Ltd. | Polishing apparatus for optical fiber end surface |
US6347974B1 (en) * | 1999-10-26 | 2002-02-19 | William Keith Chandler | Automated polishing methods |
US20020160700A1 (en) * | 2001-04-27 | 2002-10-31 | Thomas Boyer | Polishing pad assembly for fiber optic cable connector polishing apparatus |
Family Cites Families (86)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US2577312A (en) | 1949-07-30 | 1951-12-04 | Crane Packing Co | Rotatable work holder for articles to belapped or ground |
US3868794A (en) | 1973-07-16 | 1975-03-04 | Owens Illinois Inc | Method of finishing laser rods and fixtures therefor |
SU738825A1 (en) | 1977-07-14 | 1980-06-05 | Предприятие П/Я А-3944 | Device for clamping ceramic products |
US4291502A (en) | 1979-09-24 | 1981-09-29 | International Telephone And Telegraph Corporation | Grinding or polishing tool |
US4648670A (en) * | 1980-05-07 | 1987-03-10 | Allied Corporation | Electrical connector assembly having anti-decoupling mechanism |
US4498260A (en) | 1982-05-10 | 1985-02-12 | Hughes Aircraft Company | Tool for optically finishing multiple mounted optical fibers |
JPS59161256A (en) | 1983-03-02 | 1984-09-12 | Matsushita Electric Ind Co Ltd | Grinding jig for end face of optical fibers |
US4649670A (en) | 1983-05-19 | 1987-03-17 | At&T Technologies | Methods of end finishing a lightguide fiber termination |
US4587768A (en) | 1983-11-28 | 1986-05-13 | Buehler Ltd. | Apparatus and method for polishing ends of fiber optics |
JPS61113005A (en) | 1984-11-07 | 1986-05-30 | Fujitsu Ltd | Terminal structure of optical fiber cable |
JPS61159305A (en) | 1984-12-18 | 1986-07-19 | Fujitsu Ltd | Workpiece holding device of grinding machine |
JPS60217055A (en) | 1984-12-24 | 1985-10-30 | Yamaichi Electric Mfg Co Ltd | Plug holder in polishing device of optical fiber |
US4693035A (en) | 1985-10-30 | 1987-09-15 | Buehler Ltd. | Multiple optical fiber polishing apparatus |
US4802680A (en) | 1986-03-21 | 1989-02-07 | Siemens Aktiengesellschaft | Coaxial collet chuck |
JPS6341811A (en) | 1986-08-08 | 1988-02-23 | Fujitsu Ltd | Positioning structure for optical connector |
DE3643914A1 (en) | 1986-12-22 | 1988-06-30 | Zeiss Carl Fa | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR LAPPING OR POLISHING OPTICAL SURFACES |
JP2683527B2 (en) | 1987-03-05 | 1997-12-03 | アンプ インコーポレーテッド | Optical fiber cable end processing device |
JPS63283854A (en) | 1987-05-12 | 1988-11-21 | Seiko Giken:Kk | Polishing tool for optical fiber edge surface |
JPS63300852A (en) | 1987-05-29 | 1988-12-08 | Seiko Giken:Kk | Polisher for edge surface of optical fiber |
JPS63316811A (en) | 1987-06-19 | 1988-12-26 | Hitachi Cable Ltd | Manufacture of optical connector |
US4819386A (en) | 1987-07-20 | 1989-04-11 | Northwestern Bell Corporation | Optic fiber sanding fixture and method of using |
US4891916A (en) | 1987-10-13 | 1990-01-09 | Extrude Hone Corporation | Oscillatory or translational table for machine tools |
US4905415A (en) * | 1988-11-07 | 1990-03-06 | Hughes Aircraft Company | Fiber optic terminus grinding and polishing machine |
JPH0767663B2 (en) | 1989-06-23 | 1995-07-26 | 株式会社精工技研 | Optical fiber end face polishing machine |
DE4004665A1 (en) | 1990-02-15 | 1991-08-22 | Ant Nachrichtentech | Optical fibre end-face grinding or polishing - using moving guide table spaced from polishing head |
US5184433A (en) | 1990-03-16 | 1993-02-09 | Aster Corporation | Fiber optic polisher |
US5107627A (en) | 1990-09-04 | 1992-04-28 | At&T Bell Laboratories | Methods of and apparatus for polishing an article |
US5136820A (en) | 1991-05-30 | 1992-08-11 | Siecor Corporation | Polishing method |
JP2985393B2 (en) | 1991-07-12 | 1999-11-29 | 住友電気工業株式会社 | Polishing method for multi-core optical connector |
US5218786A (en) | 1991-10-04 | 1993-06-15 | Seikoh Giken Co., Ltd. | Apparatus for grinding ferrules for ribbon type optical fibers |
JP2974221B2 (en) | 1991-10-04 | 1999-11-10 | 株式会社 精工技研 | Ferrule for ribbon optical fiber Polishing method and apparatus |
JPH05157941A (en) | 1991-12-10 | 1993-06-25 | Sumitomo Electric Ind Ltd | Method for polishing optical connector |
JP2704335B2 (en) | 1991-12-17 | 1998-01-26 | 株式会社精工技研 | Optical fiber end face polishing method, polishing apparatus therefor, and ferrule with optical fiber obtained by the polishing method |
US5201148A (en) | 1992-03-27 | 1993-04-13 | Amp Incorporated | Polishing bushing for polishing an optical fiber in an optical fiber connector |
US5281884A (en) | 1992-06-03 | 1994-01-25 | At&T Bell Laboratories | Adjustable X-Y stage |
US5349784A (en) | 1992-07-10 | 1994-09-27 | Molex Incorporated | Optical fiber polishing apparatus |
WO1994009944A1 (en) | 1992-10-27 | 1994-05-11 | Seiko Electronic Components Ltd. | End surface polishing machine |
JP3240716B2 (en) | 1992-10-28 | 2001-12-25 | 住友電気工業株式会社 | Polishing jig for multi-core optical connector |
JP3027063B2 (en) | 1992-12-15 | 2000-03-27 | 株式会社精工技研 | Optical fiber end face polishing equipment |
DE69413589T2 (en) | 1993-04-22 | 1999-04-08 | Nippon Telegraph & Telephone | Polishing disc for the end face of an optical fiber connection and polishing device |
US5351327A (en) | 1993-06-25 | 1994-09-27 | Minnesota Mining And Manufacturing Company | Polished fiber optic ferrules |
US5321917A (en) | 1993-07-08 | 1994-06-21 | The Whitaker Corporation | Tool for finishing terminated fiber optic cable |
US5345323A (en) | 1993-08-02 | 1994-09-06 | At&T Bell Laboratories | Techniques for polishing optical fiber ends |
US5447464A (en) | 1993-08-06 | 1995-09-05 | The Whitaker Corporation | Automated method of finishing the tip of a terminated optical fiber |
US5403227A (en) * | 1993-08-06 | 1995-04-04 | The Whitaker Corporation | Machine for grinding and polishing terminated fiber optic cables |
JP2896481B2 (en) | 1993-12-10 | 1999-05-31 | 東京特殊電線株式会社 | Method for manufacturing end-face polished optical fiber assembly, end-face polisher, and method for confirming end-polishing end of optical fiber |
US5458531A (en) | 1994-02-23 | 1995-10-17 | Emit Seikoco., Ltd. | Polisher |
US5412747A (en) | 1994-03-07 | 1995-05-02 | Emit Seiko Co., Ltd. | Apparatus for and method of polishing optical connectors |
US5556323A (en) | 1994-06-30 | 1996-09-17 | Siecor Corporation | Method of polishing optical connectors |
JPH0829639A (en) | 1994-07-13 | 1996-02-02 | Seiko Giken:Kk | Polishing base plate of spherical surface polishing deevice for end face of optica fiber and spherical surface polishing mthod of optical fiber |
JP3084471B2 (en) | 1994-09-28 | 2000-09-04 | セイコーインスツルメンツ株式会社 | Polishing method of ferrule end face of optical connector |
JP3078714B2 (en) | 1994-10-07 | 2000-08-21 | 株式会社精工技研 | Optical fiber end face polishing apparatus having ferrule fixing means |
JP3078713B2 (en) | 1994-10-07 | 2000-08-21 | 株式会社精工技研 | Optical fiber end surface polishing device for polishing multiple types of optical fibers |
JP3659671B2 (en) | 1994-10-13 | 2005-06-15 | セイコーインスツル株式会社 | Optical fiber end face polishing machine and polishing method |
WO1996014960A2 (en) | 1994-11-10 | 1996-05-23 | The Whitaker Corporation | Universal polishing fixture for polishing optical fiber connectors |
US5674114A (en) | 1994-11-10 | 1997-10-07 | The Whitaker Corporation | Universal polishing plate for polishing machine |
US5577149A (en) | 1994-11-29 | 1996-11-19 | Adc Telecommunications, Inc. | Fiber optic polishing fixture |
US5643064A (en) | 1995-09-08 | 1997-07-01 | The Whitaker Corporation | Universal polishing fixture for polishing optical fiber connectors |
US5711707A (en) * | 1995-11-30 | 1998-01-27 | Zoccole; Pasquale | Method and device for signalling the winning of a bingo game |
US5741171A (en) | 1996-08-19 | 1998-04-21 | Sagitta Engineering Solutions, Ltd. | Precision polishing system |
US5947797A (en) | 1996-09-11 | 1999-09-07 | Buzzetti; Mike | Computer-controlled method for polishing |
AU4600997A (en) | 1996-09-30 | 1998-04-24 | Sang Van Nguyen | Automatic fiber optic connectorization and inspection system (afocis) |
US5778125A (en) * | 1996-10-30 | 1998-07-07 | The United States Of America As Represented By The Secretary Of The Navy | Optical fiber terminations |
US5813902A (en) | 1997-04-14 | 1998-09-29 | Minnesota Mining And Manufacturing Company | Optical fiber end-face preparation and connector assembly |
JPH1177506A (en) | 1997-09-05 | 1999-03-23 | Seiko Instr Inc | End face polishing and washing device |
WO1999031538A1 (en) | 1997-12-16 | 1999-06-24 | The Furukawa Electric Co., Ltd. | Optical part and method and device for polishing end face of the same |
JPH11242135A (en) | 1998-02-24 | 1999-09-07 | Seiko Instruments Inc | Ferrule polishing method for oblique pc connector |
US6157863A (en) | 1998-02-27 | 2000-12-05 | Ciena Corporation | Apparatus and method for leveling optical fibers before polishing |
JP2985075B2 (en) | 1998-04-23 | 1999-11-29 | セイコーインスツルメンツ株式会社 | Polishing method for convex spherical surface of ferrule for optical connector |
US6302763B1 (en) | 1998-06-29 | 2001-10-16 | Mike Buzzetti | Apparatus for polishing |
JP2000084822A (en) | 1998-09-14 | 2000-03-28 | Seiko Giken:Kk | End surface polishing device for optical fiber |
US6280293B1 (en) | 1998-10-15 | 2001-08-28 | Seiko Instruments Inc. | End face polishing apparatus and method for polishing end face of ferrule |
US6106368A (en) | 1998-11-18 | 2000-08-22 | Siecor Operations, Llc | Polishing method for preferentially etching a ferrule and ferrule assembly |
US6396996B1 (en) | 1999-09-21 | 2002-05-28 | Adc Telecommunications, Inc. | Fixture for use in polishing fiber optic connectors |
JP2001259987A (en) | 2000-03-13 | 2001-09-25 | Seiko Instruments Inc | End face polishing device |
US6428215B1 (en) | 2000-12-27 | 2002-08-06 | Adc Telecommunications, Inc. | Tunable fiber optic connector and method for assembling |
CN2463114Y (en) * | 2001-02-02 | 2001-12-05 | 张福源 | Lapping machine for face of optical fibre connector |
US6752536B2 (en) * | 2001-04-27 | 2004-06-22 | Ciena Corporation | Method of simultaneously polishing a plurality of diverse fiber optic cable connectors |
US6831738B2 (en) | 2001-06-26 | 2004-12-14 | Adc Telecommunications, Inc. | Method and apparatus for inspecting end surfaces on optical connectors |
JP2003089046A (en) | 2001-09-12 | 2003-03-25 | Seiko Instruments Inc | End face polishing device |
CN2511436Y (en) * | 2001-12-27 | 2002-09-18 | 飞利升工业股份有限公司 | Improved optical fiber grinder |
US6860646B1 (en) | 2002-02-01 | 2005-03-01 | Adc Telecommunications, Inc. | System for clamping ferrules |
US6718111B1 (en) | 2002-02-01 | 2004-04-06 | Adc Telecommunications, Inc. | Ferrule polishing fixture |
US6599030B1 (en) | 2002-02-08 | 2003-07-29 | Adc Telecommunications, Inc. | Method for polishing a fiber optic connector |
US6827632B2 (en) | 2002-07-31 | 2004-12-07 | Adc Telecommunications, Inc. | Method for polishing a fiber optic attenuator ferrule |
US6918816B2 (en) * | 2003-01-31 | 2005-07-19 | Adc Telecommunications, Inc. | Apparatus and method for polishing a fiber optic connector |
-
2003
- 2003-01-31 US US10/356,358 patent/US6918816B2/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
-
2004
- 2004-01-26 WO PCT/US2004/002135 patent/WO2004069474A1/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 2004-01-26 CN CN2004800031235A patent/CN1744967B/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2004-01-26 EP EP04705310A patent/EP1597021A1/en not_active Withdrawn
- 2004-01-26 MX MXPA05007919A patent/MXPA05007919A/en active IP Right Grant
-
2005
- 2005-06-10 US US11/150,420 patent/US7163440B2/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
Patent Citations (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
DE19752228A1 (en) * | 1996-11-26 | 1998-05-28 | Whitaker Corp | Universal polishing fixture for holding optical fibre connectors during polishing operation |
US6077154A (en) * | 1997-07-14 | 2000-06-20 | Seikoh Giken Co., Ltd. | Polishing apparatus for optical fiber end surface |
US6347974B1 (en) * | 1999-10-26 | 2002-02-19 | William Keith Chandler | Automated polishing methods |
US20020160700A1 (en) * | 2001-04-27 | 2002-10-31 | Thomas Boyer | Polishing pad assembly for fiber optic cable connector polishing apparatus |
Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US9358657B1 (en) * | 2010-04-16 | 2016-06-07 | Commscope Technologies Llc | Recess forming tool for preparing fiber optic ferrule endfaces |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US7163440B2 (en) | 2007-01-16 |
MXPA05007919A (en) | 2005-09-30 |
CN1744967A (en) | 2006-03-08 |
US20050239378A1 (en) | 2005-10-27 |
US20040152399A1 (en) | 2004-08-05 |
CN1744967B (en) | 2010-05-12 |
US6918816B2 (en) | 2005-07-19 |
EP1597021A1 (en) | 2005-11-23 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US7163440B2 (en) | Apparatus and method for polishing a fiber optic connector | |
US6628886B2 (en) | Integrated processing system for optical devices | |
US6572450B2 (en) | Roll format polishing process for optical devices | |
KR100507432B1 (en) | Method and apparatus for polishing a semiconductor wafer | |
US5447464A (en) | Automated method of finishing the tip of a terminated optical fiber | |
US20130095732A1 (en) | Devices and methods for automatically cleaving and abrading cables | |
US7175514B2 (en) | Polishing fixture assembly for a fiber optic cable connector polishing apparatus | |
US6752536B2 (en) | Method of simultaneously polishing a plurality of diverse fiber optic cable connectors | |
CN214723334U (en) | Grinding assembly and grinding device | |
US6641472B2 (en) | Polishing pad assembly for fiber optic cable connector polishing apparatus | |
CN214771113U (en) | Optical fiber grinding device | |
CN117359478A (en) | Optical fiber grinding process and grinding equipment thereof | |
CN112959206B (en) | Automatic grinding machine | |
CN218014257U (en) | Optical fiber ferrule end face detection device | |
JP2002113654A (en) | End surface polishing device | |
CN220217839U (en) | Polishing device for optical element | |
JPS62203746A (en) | Grinding device for end surface of optical fiber connector | |
JPH05261652A (en) | Bore inner surface polisher | |
CN114800168B (en) | Automatic grinding machine for optical fiber jumper | |
CN2625107Y (en) | Travel mechanism for carrying buffing machine | |
CN220312993U (en) | Automatic optical fiber ceramic grinding machine | |
US6186871B1 (en) | Apparatus for performing a polishing operation on a fibre or a fibre optic cable in a cable termination | |
CN116713822A (en) | Automatic grinding process for insert core | |
KR100431922B1 (en) | Polishing apparatus | |
JPH08197403A (en) | Device and method for polishing optical part |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AK | Designated states |
Kind code of ref document: A1 Designated state(s): AE AG AL AM AT AU AZ BA BB BG BR BW BY BZ CA CH CN CO CR CU CZ DE DK DM DZ EC EE EG ES FI GB GD GE GH GM HR HU ID IL IN IS JP KE KG KP KR KZ LC LK LR LS LT LU LV MA MD MG MK MN MW MX MZ NA NI NO NZ OM PG PH PL PT RO RU SC SD SE SG SK SL SY TJ TM TN TR TT TZ UA UG US UZ VC VN YU ZA ZM ZW |
|
AL | Designated countries for regional patents |
Kind code of ref document: A1 Designated state(s): BW GH GM KE LS MW MZ SD SL SZ TZ UG ZM ZW AM AZ BY KG KZ MD RU TJ TM AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HU IE IT LU MC NL PT RO SE SI SK TR BF BJ CF CG CI CM GA GN GQ GW ML MR NE SN TD TG |
|
121 | Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application | ||
WWE | Wipo information: entry into national phase |
Ref document number: PA/a/2005/007919 Country of ref document: MX |
|
WWE | Wipo information: entry into national phase |
Ref document number: 20048031235 Country of ref document: CN |
|
WWE | Wipo information: entry into national phase |
Ref document number: 2004705310 Country of ref document: EP |
|
WWP | Wipo information: published in national office |
Ref document number: 2004705310 Country of ref document: EP |
|
WWW | Wipo information: withdrawn in national office |
Ref document number: 2004705310 Country of ref document: EP |