Splicing element for connection of individual light waveguides

Abstract

A splicing element particularly useful for interconnecting the ends of a pair of light waveguides, such as optical fibers, in light transmitting relationship characterized by a single member, which is either molded or formed from a sheet of material, having a pair of thin wall portions with the inner surfaces inclined to each other at an acute angle to form a centering groove having a V-shape and extending longitudinally in the member for receiving and positioning the ends of the light waveguides. In one embodiment, a base of the centering groove terminates inward from each end of the member which ends have outwardly diverging surfaces to enable engaging a covering or sheathing on the waveguide. The base of the groove may have a constant depth or be concavely-shaped with the lowest point being between the ends of the groove and at the point of contact between the ends of the fibers. In one embodiment, the centering groove terminates in second wall portions which extend parallel to each other and form an aligning groove which second wall portions terminate in diverging outwardly flared third wall portions that form an insertion aid. The fibers can be held in the centering groove either by the use of a cement, by welding or the splicing element may be deformed and crimped to mechanically hold the waveguides in the connecting position.