Method and apparatus for forming low optical loss splices
OwnerEric Mics, Latha Venkataramaninventors
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Abstract
The invention is directed to methods for adiabatically expanding the mode-field diameter of an optical fiber by heating the end of the optical fiber. The fiber's end is heated by a heat source, preferably, a flame fueled by an organic liquid. Preferably, the organic-liquid fuel is an alcohol, more preferably, an alcohol having six or fewer carbon atoms and only one hydroxyl group, and optimally methanol.
Claims27
A method for expanding the mode-field diameter of an optical fiber comprising heating an end of the optical fiber to a temperature of about 500° C. to about 2000° C.
A method of splicing a first optical fiber having a smaller mode-field diameter to a second optical fiber having a larger mode field diameter comprising:
- (a) heating the end of the first optical fiber having the smaller mode field diameter to a temperature of about 500° C. to about 2000° C. to expand the mode field;
- and
- (b) abutting the end of the expanded mode field fiber with the end of the second optical fiber having the larger mode field diameter.
A method for expanding the mode-field diameter of an optical fiber comprising heating the optical fiber to a temperature of about 500° C. to about 2000° C. by applying heat to the optical fiber generated by a fuel source, wherein the fuel source comprises an organic liquid.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.