Patent ID: 6355102
Filing Date: 2002-03-12
Classification: C03C,G02B

Abstract:
A coating applicator for continuously applying matrix material to a plurality of optical fibers arranged in a ribbon configuration and for at least maintaining such configuration while the material is applied, the coating applicator comprising:a die containing: a preliminary matrix material application chamber having a first matrix material supply orifice, a first preliminary chamber side containing an entrance opening and a second preliminary chamber side containing an exit opening, the second preliminary chamber side being opposite the first preliminary chamber side, the preliminary chamber entrance opening defining a first guide edge for contacting the plurality of optical fibers on a first side of the plurality of optical fibers, and for contacting a first end fiber of the plurality of optical fibers; a main matrix material application chamber having a second matrix material supply orifice, a first main chamber side containing an entrance opening for receiving the optical fibers from the preliminary chamber exit opening and a second main chamber side containing an exit opening, the second main chamber side being opposite the first main chamber side, the main chamber entrance opening defining a second guide edge for contacting a second side of the plurality of optical fibers and for contacting a second end fiber of the plurality of optical fibers, and wherein the position of the main chamber entrance opening is offset relative to the position of the preliminary chamber entrance opening such that the optical fibers are caused to contact the first and second guide edges.