Vacuum chuck for holding filaments

Abstract

A vacuum chuck particularly suited for use with optical fibers includes a V-shaped channel provided with 'hold-down' suction and extending across the middle of a plane surface for placement of an optical fiber. The V-shaped channel is formed by abutting chamfered edges of two metal, solid rectangular jaw blocks. Slots along the abutting sides of the jaw blocks extend away from the chamfered edges to form passages for applying suction to the V-shaped channel for retention of the fiber therein. The passages are centered in the channel and the suction drawn through them pulls the fiber directly down into the V-shaped channel for precise centering therein. The top surfaces of the jaw blocks form a plane surface which extends laterally onto the shoulder of a support base. The generally planar surface facilitates placement and visual confirmation of the alignment of the fiber thereon and further permits mechanical securing of the fiber by tape or other means so that suction is not continuously required. Set screws are provided for securing the jaw blocks to the base. The center lines of the set screw holes are offset slightly below the centers of detent holes in the jaw blocks when assembled on the base and the detent holes are provided with sloping walls so that as the set screws are tightened into the blocks, they are drawn downwardly and driven together to effect a seal around the vacuum ports without a separate gasket. The jaw blocks may be easily removed by withdrawal of the set screws for cleaning of the passage slots to prevent clogging of the vacuum ports, and they may be easily replaced in proper alignment.