Apparatus and method for cleaning an optical fiber
US7837801B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 6, 2006 |
| Grant date | Nov 23, 2010 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 4, 2029 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB08B2240/02
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An apparatus and method for cleaning an optical fiber supported by a fiber optic connector. The cleaning apparatus may include a housing, a cleaning tip supported by the housing and a cleaning wipe advanceable along at least a portion of the cleaning tip to clean an optical fiber when the cleaning wipe engages the optical fiber. The apparatus may include one or more automated features which may enhance the effectiveness of the apparatus. The apparatus may include a fluid dispenser to wet at least a portion of the cleaning wipe with a cleaning fluid. The apparatus may be configured to automatically control the force exerted by the cleaning tip against the optical fiber and/or to automatically control tension in the cleaning wipe. Aspects of the invention are directed to a method of cleaning an end face of an optical fiber by advancing a wet portion of a cleaning wipe across the end face, and thereafter advancing a dry portion of the cleaning wipe across the end face. A cleaning wipe may also be provided with at least one fluid barrier to prevent fluid flow between two adjacent portions of the cleaning wipe.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.