Ferrule cleaning rod and method of use
US5925191A · kind A · utility
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 9, 1997 |
| Grant date | Jul 20, 1999 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 9, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG02B6/3863
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Various embodiments of a rod for cleaning and/or polishing embodiments of a ferrule in a fiber optic connector are disclosed. In a first embodiment, the rod is formed of an ultra high molecular weight polyethylene hydrophobic material, preferably absorbent. Each end of the rod has a hole that is a tight fit to the diameter of a male-type ferrule and is at least as deep as the length of the ferrule. The rod material is strong and pliable, so that after it is slipped over the male-type ferrule the rod can be rotated for cleaning the sides of the ferrule while being withdrawn from its snug fit with the ferrule. The holes may have polishing inserts formed therein. Alternatively, the rod has a male protrusion on one end. The male end inserts into the recess formed by the connector adaptor when using a female-type ferrule. The rod is then rotated to effect cleaning and/or polishing of the end face of the optical fiber together with cleaning of the insides surfaces of the side walls of the connector adaptor.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.