Patent ID: 6535654
Filing Date: 2003-03-18
Classification: G01C,G01R,G02B

Abstract:
A method for retarding polarization of a light wave in an optical fiber to obtain a selected polarization state, said method comprising the steps of:(a) splicing a second end of a first linear polarization-maintaining fiber having a first beat length to a first end of a second polarization-maintaining fiber having a high birefringence and a second beat length; (b) cleaving said second polarization-maintaining fiber at a second end thereof such that said second polarization-maintaining fiber has a length d; (c) securing said first fiber and said second fiber in a glass capillary; (d) directing the light wave into a first end of said first fiber; and (e) determining a polarization state of the light wave exiting said second end of said second fiber; (f) lapping said second end of said second fiber against an abrasive substance; and (g) repeating steps (d) and (e) if said polarization state is not sufficiently close to said desired polarization state.