Fiber positioning apparatus utilizing vacuum-assisted retention

A method for securing at least one fiber component within a fiber positioning apparatus, the method comprising:

• positioning a flexible retention sheet within an internal chamber of an enclosure, wherein the flexible retention sheet comprises a protruded section extending into an engagement recess of the enclosure and a plurality of perforation holes extending through the flexible retention sheet;
• receiving the at least one fiber component on the flexible retention sheet such that the at least one fiber component aligns with at least one of the plurality of perforation holes;
• activating a vacuum source connected to a suction conduit fluidically coupled to the engagement recess, wherein the suction conduit establishes fluid communication with each perforation hole;
• inducing a negative pressure within the flexible retention sheet via the suction conduit, wherein the negative pressure is transmitted through the plurality of perforation holes to generate a vacuum retention force for securing the at least one fiber component against the flexible retention sheet;
• maintaining the attachment of the at least one fiber component to the flexible retention sheet if the induced negative pressure exists;
• and
• releasing the at least one fiber component by deactivating the vacuum source, thereby eliminating the negative pressure within the flexible retention sheet.