Structured arc technique using a focusing sleeve
US6336750B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 13, 2000 |
| Grant date | Jan 8, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 13, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG02B6/2551
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
The present invention introduces an arc shaping member to be used in fiber optic fusion splicers. The use of the an arc shaping member may minimize the undesirable effects of grunge and/or deposits than can buildup on arc electrodes. The buildup of grunge or other deposits can cause formation of an irregular electrical arc possibly resulting in an undesirable splice. The arc shaping member may be a passive or active. In a fiber optic splicer, the arc shaping member may be mounted in a plane parallel to the optical fiber(s) being spliced and in a plane perpendicular to the arc electrodes. The arc shaping member may be installed such that the member surrounds the electric arc created by the arc electrodes. The presence of the arc shaping member causes the electric arc to maintain the desired shape and/or intensity. An operator may control, independent of the arc voltage, the shape, size and heat intensity of the electrical arc. The shape of the electric arc may be controlled for increasing and/or decreasing the focus of heat intensity at a desired location.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.