Patent ID: 6816654
Filing Date: 2004-11-09
Classification: G02B

Abstract:
A method of making a multi fiber ferrule comprising the steps of:providing a ferrule blank having a pair of preformed slots extending inward from opposing sides toward a fiber receiving cavity which extends from a mating face to a rear end; precisely aligning the blank on a mandrel placed within the fiber receiving cavity; broaching a pin slot in each side surface such that the pin slot is precisely located with respect to the fiber receiving cavity to form a ferrule main body; positioning the ferrule main body within a ferrule receiving opening of a central fixture such that locating pins of the central fixture are positioned within the pin slots; populating the fiber receiving cavity with a plurality of optical fibers; accurately positioning the optical fibers using a plurality of combs over ends of the optical fibers which protrude from the mating face; and, filling the fiber receiving cavity with an encapsulant.