Corning Incorporated

Richard E Blazek

Erling Richard Anderson

William J Kish

Allen E Allegretto

Robert D Nichols

A system and methods for automating the testing of optical fiber are described. According to one aspect of the present invention, an automated conveyor system moves spools of optical fiber contained on pallets from testing station to testing station. According to another aspect of the present invention, a single spool is carried by a specially designed pallet. According to another aspect of present invention, an apparatus automatically strips, cleans, and cleaves the fiber ends once the spool reaches the apparatus. The fiber ends are then automatically manipulated into the appropriate location for a predetermined test to be performed. According to another aspect of the invention, an apparatus automatically acquires a sample length of the optical fiber and strips, cleans, and cleaves the fiber ends of the sample. The sample length of the optical fiber is then manipulated into the appropriate location for a second predetermined test to be performed.

Methods and apparatus for automation of the testing and measurement of optical fiber

A method and appartus for sandwiching the loose end of the optical fiber. A disk assembly is disclosed which includesa first disk capable of being mounted on the shaft proximate the first flange of the reel and a second disk capable of being mounted on the shaft proximate the first disk, wherein the first and second disks are capable of being spaced apart to accept the loose end of the optical fiber, and the first and second disks are capable of being moved together to sandwich the loose end of the optical fiber.

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Wilmington, NC, United States of America

Richard E Blazek