Apparatus and method for cleaning an optical fiber

An apparatus and method for cleaning an optical fiber supported by a fiber optic connector. The cleaning apparatus may include a housing, a cleaning tip supported by the housing and a cleaning wipe advanceable along at least a portion of the cleaning tip to clean an optical fiber when the cleaning wipe engages the optical fiber. The apparatus may include one or more automated features which may enhance the effectiveness of the apparatus. The apparatus may include a fluid dispenser to wet at least a portion of the cleaning wipe with a cleaning fluid. The apparatus may be configured to automatically control the force exerted by the cleaning tip against the optical fiber and/or to automatically control tension in the cleaning wipe. Aspects of the invention are directed to a method of cleaning an end face of an optical fiber by advancing a wet portion of a cleaning wipe across the end face, and thereafter advancing a dry portion of the cleaning wipe across the end face. A cleaning wipe may also be provided with at least one fluid barrier to prevent fluid flow between two adjacent portions of the cleaning wipe.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to cleaning fiber optic systems, and more particularly, to an apparatus and method for cleaning an optical fiber which is supported by a fiber optic connector.

BACKGROUND OF INVENTION

Fiber optic systems are used in a variety of applications. Generally, in a fiber optic system, information in the form of a light signal is transmitted between different portions of the fiber optic system through an optical fiber. End faces of two optical fibers may be axially aligned and placed into contact under a predetermined axial load to make a point-to-point signal connection. Various types of connectors may be used to assist in making the signal connection between optical fibers.

FIG. 1illustrates one example of a multi-channel connector10that may be used to connect optical fibers. The connector10includes a male component14and a female component16. The female component16has multiple cavities12and may be used in combination with the male component14to align and couple multiple pairs of optical fibers18inside the cavities12.

Because the signal transmitted between the optical fibers is light, it is desirable to minimize the amount of contaminants that may be present on the end faces of an optical fiber. Contaminants may block the transmission of the light signal through the end face of the optical fiber. Contaminants may also scratch the end face which may affect the ability of the fiber to transmit a signal even after the contaminant is removed. Scratches on the optical fiber may render an optical fiber inoperable.

Examples of contaminates may include, but are not limited to oil, salt, fuel, baked-on dust and de-icer. Such contaminants are commonly encountered in certain military environments.

One approach to cleaning the end face of an optical fiber is with an alcohol soaked, lint-free wipe. This approach may be effective when the end face of the optical fiber is accessible. However, this approach is not very effective when the end face of the optical fiber is recessed within a connector, because the end face is not readily accessible to the wipe. Several techniques may be employed to remove contaminants from the end face of an optical fiber that is not readily accessible.

In one technique, an operator may dissemble portions of the connector to expose the end face of the optical fiber. Once dissembled, an alcohol soaked wipe may be used to remove contaminants, and thereafter the connector may be reassembled. Although this approach may be effective at removing some contaminants, the disassembly and reassembly process associated with this technique is typically labor intensive. The reassembling process may also stir up additional contaminants onto the end face of the optical fiber after the optical fiber has been cleaned. Also, in some circumstances, this technique may not be desirable because multiple fibers may be bundled together on the backside of the connector making it difficult to easily dissemble the connector. Furthermore, disassembling and reassembling the connector may lead to mishandling of the fiber which may potentially damage the end face of the fiber and may even render the optical fiber inoperable.

Another technique to remove contaminants from the end face of an optical fiber employs an alcohol soaked, lint-free swab. The swab may be inserted into the connector to wipe the end face of the fiber to dislodge contaminants. Although a swab may be easy to use, the swabs are expensive and are less effective at removing contaminants in comparison to a larger wipe. Often times, multiple swabs are needed to clean one end face which further escalates costs.

It is an object of the present invention to provide an apparatus and method for cleaning an optical fiber which is supported by a fiber optic connector.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

In one illustrative embodiment of the invention, an apparatus is provided for cleaning an optical fiber supported by a fiber optic connector. The apparatus comprises a housing and a cleaning tip supported by the housing. The apparatus further comprises a cleaning wipe that is advanceable along at least a portion of the cleaning tip to clean a portion of an optical fiber when the cleaning wipe engages the optical fiber. The apparatus also comprises a fluid dispenser supported by the housing that is constructed and arranged to wet at least a portion of the cleaning wipe with a cleaning fluid.

In another illustrative embodiment of the invention, an apparatus is provided for cleaning an optical fiber supported by a fiber optic connector. The apparatus comprises a housing and a cleaning tip movably supported by the housing. The apparatus further comprises a cleaning wipe that is advanceable along at least a portion of the cleaning tip to clean a portion of an optical fiber when the cleaning wipe engages the optical fiber. The apparatus further comprises a force controller constructed and arranged to automatically control force exerted by the cleaning tip against the optical fiber in response to a force control signal.

In a further illustrative embodiment of the invention, an apparatus is provided for cleaning an optical fiber supported by a fiber optic connector. The apparatus comprises a housing and a cleaning tip supported by the housing. The apparatus further comprises a cleaning wipe that is advanceable along at least a portion of the cleaning tip to clean a portion of an optical fiber when the cleaning wipe engages the optical fiber. The apparatus also comprises a tension controller constructed and arranged to automatically control tension in the cleaning wipe in response to a tension control signal.

In another illustrative embodiment of the invention, a method of cleaning an optical fiber supported by a fiber optic connector is provided. The method comprises acts of (a) providing a cleaning apparatus that includes a cleaning wipe that is advanceable along at least a portion of the cleaning apparatus; (b) wetting a portion of the cleaning wipe with a cleaning fluid, while an adjacent dry portion of the cleaning wipe remains substantially free of the fluid; (c) advancing the wet portion of the cleaning wipe across the end face of an optical fiber supported by a fiber optic connector; and (d) advancing the dry portion of the cleaning wipe across the end face of the optical fiber.

In a further illustrative embodiment, a method of cleaning an optical fiber supported by a fiber optic connector is provided. The method comprises acts of (a) providing a cleaning apparatus, the cleaning apparatus including a cleaning wipe that is advanceable along at least a portion of the cleaning apparatus; (b) engaging a portion of the cleaning wipe with an optical fiber supported by a fiber optic connector to clean a portion of the optical fiber with the cleaning wipe; and (c) automatically controlling the force exerted by the cleaning wipe in response to a force control signal when the cleaning wipe contacts the optical fiber.

In yet another illustrative embodiment, a method of cleaning an optical fiber supported by a fiber optic connector is provided. The method comprises acts of (a) providing a cleaning apparatus, the cleaning apparatus including a cleaning wipe that is advanceable along at least a portion of the cleaning apparatus to clean a portion of an optical fiber supported by a fiber optic connector when the cleaning wipe engages the optical fiber; and (b) automatically controlling tension in the cleaning wipe in response to a tension control signal.

In a further illustrative embodiment, an apparatus is provided for cleaning an optical fiber supported by a fiber optic connector. The apparatus comprises a housing and a cleaning media supported by the housing. The cleaning media is constructed and arranged to clean an optical fiber supported by a fiber optic connector. The apparatus further comprises a stabilizer supported by the housing, the stabilizer constructed and arranged to engage the connector and to stabilize the housing with respect to the connector by maintaining the housing at a fixed angular orientation relative to the connector.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present invention is directed to an apparatus and method for cleaning the end face of an optical fiber which is supported by a fiber optic connector. It should be appreciated that the apparatus may be configured in any of numerous ways, and that the present invention is not limited to the particular apparatus and techniques described below. Furthermore, it should also be appreciated that the below described methods for cleaning an optical fiber are not limited to be performed only with the various apparatus described below.

The invention is more particularly directed to an apparatus and method for removing one or more contaminants from the end face of an optical fiber. As discussed above, an optical fiber may be exposed to various types of contaminants including, but not limited to, oil, salt, fuel, baked-on dust, and de-icer. These contaminants may affect the quality of the signal transmitted between end faces of the optical fibers. In some circumstances, contaminants may obstruct the transmission of the light signal entirely. In other circumstances, contaminants may scratch or otherwise alter the optical properties of the end face of an optical fiber which may damage the fiber and may even result in an inoperable optical fiber. In such circumstances, the fiber may need to be replaced which may be expensive and time consuming.

The cleaning apparatus of the present invention may include a cleaning wipe for engaging and wiping a portion of an optical fiber. The cleaning wipe may be advanceable along a portion of the cleaning apparatus to produce a wiping action along the optical fiber. The cleaning apparatus may include a cleaning tip, and the cleaning wipe may be advanceable along at least a portion of the cleaning tip to clean the optical fiber.

The cleaning tip may also be advanceable with respect to a portion of the cleaning apparatus. The cleaning tip may advance in a linear direction and/or a rotational direction to access and clean an optical fiber. In some embodiments, the cleaning tip may be constructed to fit within portions of the fiber optic connector to access an end face of an optical fiber, such that the cleaning wipe may readily wipe the end face of an optical fiber even when the optical fiber is recessed within a fiber optic connector. The cleaning apparatus may be configured to clean the end face of an optical fiber recessed within a fiber optic connector without requiring disassembly of the connector.

Illustrative embodiments of the cleaning apparatus may include a cleaning fluid dispenser. Certain types of contaminants may be easier to remove from the optical fiber with the use of a cleaning fluid, and the amount of fluid used to remove a certain type of contaminant may depend upon the particular type of contaminant. As described in greater detail below, the cleaning apparatus may include a fluid dispenser to dispense a cleaning fluid onto at least a portion of the cleaning wipe to assist in the removal of contaminants. However, it is to be appreciated that a fluid dispenser is not required for each embodiment of the cleaning apparatus.

In one aspect of the present invention, the cleaning apparatus is configured to wet only a portion of the cleaning wipe. In this manner, as the cleaning wipe is advanced across the end face of the optical fiber, the fiber may be subjected to alternating steps of wet and dry wiping. In one illustrative embodiment, the cleaning wipe may include at least one fluid barrier positioned between portions of the cleaning wipe to inhibit wicking of fluid along the cleaning wipe. In one embodiment, a cleaning wipe with a fluid barrier may be used to assist in carrying out the alternating steps of wet and dry wiping by preventing fluid from a wet portion to migrate into an adjacent dry portion.

In one aspect of the present invention, the cleaning apparatus may include a force controller to control the amount of force exerted by the cleaning apparatus against an optical fiber. A certain amount of force against the optical fiber may be needed to adequately engage the fiber to clean and remove certain contaminants from the optical fiber. However, optical fibers may be fragile and excessive force exerted against the end face of an optical fiber may potentially damage and/or break the optical fiber. In one embodiment, the force controller controls the force exerted by the cleaning tip against an optical fiber. A cleaning apparatus with a force controller may reduce and/or eliminate the incidence of optical fiber damage which may otherwise occur while removing contaminants from the optical fiber. However, it is to be appreciated that a force controller is not required for each embodiment of the cleaning apparatus.

In another aspect of the present invention, the cleaning apparatus may include a tension controller to control tension in the cleaning wipe. Tension in the cleaning wipe may increase as the cleaning wipe is advanced along the cleaning tip. Tension may also increase when the cleaning wipe engages the optical fiber to clean the fiber. However, excessive tension in the cleaning wipe may potentially lead to tearing of the cleaning wipe which may affect the operability of the cleaning apparatus. Furthermore, when a cleaning wipe is wetted with a cleaning fluid, the cleaning wipe may become even more susceptible to tearing under tension. It should be appreciated that a tension controller is not required for each embodiment of the cleaning apparatus.

Aspects of the invention are directed to an automated apparatus for cleaning an optical fiber. An automated cleaning apparatus may enhance the effectiveness of the device to clean a fiber optic connector and may help to minimize optical fiber damage which may result from operator error. The apparatus may include one or more automated features including, but not limited to, controlling the advancement of the cleaning wipe, controlling the dispensing of a cleaning fluid, controlling the force of the cleaning tip exerted against an optical fiber, controlling the tension in the cleaning wipe, controlling the amount of cleaning wipe advanced along the cleaning tip and controlling the length of time for one cleaning cycle for an optical fiber. However, it should be appreciated that certain embodiments of the present invention may not be automated.

Aspects of the invention are also directed to a hand-held apparatus for cleaning an optical fiber supported by a fiber optic connector. As the use of fiber optic systems continues to increase, there is an increasing need for a field service tool which can quickly and effectively clean optical fibers within connectors. However, it should be appreciated that certain embodiments of the present invention may not be hand-held.

FIG. 2illustrates a schematic of one embodiment of an apparatus100for cleaning an optical fiber according to the invention. It should be appreciated that the apparatus100may be used to remove contaminants from a variety of types of fiber optic connectors, including, but not limited to the connector10illustrated inFIG. 1. It should also be recognized that the cleaning apparatus100is not limited to only removing contaminants such as oil, salt, fuel, baked-on dust and de-icer, as the invention is not limited in this respect.

In one illustrative embodiment shown inFIG. 2, the apparatus100includes a cleaning wipe20and a cleaning tip22. In this embodiment, the cleaning wipe20is advanceable along the cleaning tip22to clean an optical fiber (not shown). The cleaning tip22may be supported by a housing30, and as described in greater detail below, the cleaning tip22may also be moveable relative to the housing30.

As shown in the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 2, the housing30may include an elongated support32and the cleaning tip22may extend within the elongated support32. In one embodiment, the cleaning tip22may be moved relative to the housing30such that the distal end24of the cleaning tip22extends through an opening34in the distal end of the support, in a tongue-like manner, to engage and clean an optical fiber.

The distal end24of the cleaning tip20may be insertable into portions of a fiber optic connector to clean an optical fiber recessed within the connector. In one embodiment, the width of the cleaning tip22and/or the cleaning wipe20may vary depending upon the diameter of the optical fiber and/or the cavity12to be cleaned.

It is also contemplated that the housing30may include a handle38so that the apparatus100may be held by an operator. As described in further detail below, the housing30may also include a trigger36to actuate the optical fiber cleaning process.

In some embodiments, the cleaning wipe20is advanceable along a portion of the cleaning tip22. In this respect, a portion of the cleaning wipe20may be advanced along the cleaning tip22towards the distal end24of the tip22to clean an optical fiber. Once that portion of the cleaning wipe20engages and is advanced across the optical fiber to remove contaminants, that used portion of the cleaning wipe20may be advanced away from the optical fiber. The advancement of the cleaning wipe20across the fiber produces a wiping action that removes contaminants and may prevent recontamination of the optical fiber with contaminants which are picked up by the cleaning wipe. It should be appreciated that the advancement of the cleaning wipe30along the cleaning tip22may be continuous or intermittent.

In one illustrative embodiment, a feed reel40and a take-up reel42may be provided to store the cleaning wipe20. In one embodiment, a supply of unused cleaning wipe20is provided on the feed reel40. As the cleaning wipe20is advanced from the feed reel40to clean the optical fiber, the used portion of the cleaning wipe is stored on the take-up reel42. In particular, at least a portion of the cleaning wipe20may be unwound from the feed reel40as the cleaning wipe20advances along a portion of the cleaning tip22. Once a portion of the cleaning wipe20engages the optical fiber, that portion of the cleaning wipe20may then be wound onto the take-up reel42.

The cleaning tip22may move relative to the housing30in a variety of ways, as the invention is not so limited. In one illustrative embodiment shown inFIG. 2, a main carriage60couples the cleaning tip22to the housing30. As shown inFIG. 2, a linear slide50may slideably couple the main carriage60to the housing30, such that the cleaning tip22moves in a linear direction relative to the housing30when the main carriage60moves along the linear slide50. In one embodiment, a cam actuator62produces the movement of the main carriage60along the linear slide50. In one illustrative embodiment shown inFIG. 4, a linear transducer56converts the rotary movement of the cam actuator62into linear movement and the linear transducer56is coupled to a primary and secondary ball slides58which move the main carriage60. However, it is appreciated that other types of mechanisms and actuators may be used both to move the cleaning tip22relative to the housing30, and/or to generate the movement of the cleaning tip22.

Rotational movement of the cleaning tip22relative to the housing30is also contemplated to assist in cleaning the optical fiber. The rotational movement of the cleaning tip22may help to clean the optical fiber by removing contaminants from areas adjacent to the end face of the optical fiber. For example, when the cleaning tip22is inserted into a cavity12within a connector, the rotational movement of the cleaning tip22allows the cleaning wipe20to engage the walls which form the cavity12. It should be appreciated that according to certain embodiments, cleaning the optical fiber broadly includes cleaning various portions of a connector when the optical fiber is supported by the connector.

In one illustrative embodiment shown inFIG. 3, an actuator, such as a rotational motor104, axially rotates the cleaning tip22with respect to both the housing30and the main carriage60. In one embodiment, the cleaning tip22is configured to rotate approximately 90°. In another embodiment, the cleaning tip is configured to rotate approximately 180°. In yet another embodiment, the cleaning tip22is configured to rotate approximately 360°. It is to be understood that the cleaning tip22may be configured to rotate any suitable amount apparent to one of skill in the art. It is also contemplated that other types of actuators apparent to one of skill in the art may be used to generate rotational movement of the cleaning tip22. Furthermore, it should be appreciated that rotational and/or linear movement of the cleaning tip is not required for each embodiment of the cleaning apparatus.

According to one embodiment, a cleaning apparatus100as illustrated inFIGS. 2 and 3may be utilized to clean the end face of an optical fiber. In particular, the cleaning apparatus may be configured to clean the end face of an optical fiber that is recessed within a connector, such as when an optical fiber is recessed within a cavity12of a female component16of a connector (seeFIGS. 1 and 3). The optical fiber to be cleaned may first be aligned with the cleaning apparatus100such that the cleaning tip22is axially aligned with the optical fiber. Once aligned, the cleaning tip22may extend out from the support32such that a portion of the cleaning tip22advances into the cavity12or recess to engage the end face of the optical fiber. To produce a wiping action along the optical fiber, the cleaning wipe20may be advanced along the cleaning tip22by unwinding a length of the wipe from the feed reel40and thereafter winding the used wipe around the take-up reel42.

It should be appreciated that when the cleaning apparatus is configured to clean an optical fiber that is not recessed, the cleaning tip22may not extend out from the support32. It is contemplated that when cleaning an optical fiber18supported by a male component14of a connector (SeeFIG. 1), that the end face of the optical fiber18may be inserted into the support32of the housing. However, when cleaning an optical fiber which protrudes out from a portion of the connector, the cleaning tip22may also extend out from the housing30to engage the optical fiber, as the invention is not limited in this respect.

In some embodiments, the cleaning wipe20may extend around the distal tip24of the cleaning tip22, as illustrated inFIGS. 2 and 3. As described in greater detail below, portions of the cleaning wipe20may be wetted by a fluid dispenser70, such that wetted portions of the cleaning wipe20engage the optical fiber to remove contaminants. Once the optical fiber is cleaned, the advancement of the cleaning wipe20may stop and the cleaning tip22may be removed from the cavity12and may further retract into the housing30.

Fluid Dispenser

As shown inFIG. 2, one illustrative embodiment of the present invention may include a fluid dispenser70to wet at least a portion of the cleaning wipe20with a cleaning fluid. As mentioned above, certain contaminants may be easier to remove with a cleaning fluid on the cleaning wipe20.

The fluid dispenser70may include a chamber72to hold the cleaning fluid and a conduit74to transfer the fluid from the chamber72to the cleaning wipe20. In this embodiment, a pump, such as a pressurized bulb76, may be used to generate the flow of cleaning fluid to the cleaning wipe20. A check valve80may be positioned between the chamber72and the pressurized bulb76to prevent backflow of the cleaning fluid towards the pressurized bulb. A control valve78may be positioned in the conduit74to control the flow of the cleaning fluid onto the cleaning wipe20. As shown inFIG. 2, the control valve78is positioned downstream of the chamber72such that the flow of cleaning fluid from the chamber72to the cleaning wipe20is prevented when the valve78is closed. It should be appreciated that other suitable valves and pumps apparent to one of skill in the art may be used with the fluid dispenser70as the present invention is not so limited.

Various types of cleaning fluids may be used to wet the cleaning wipe20as the present invention is not limited in this respect. In one embodiment, the cleaning fluid may be a solvent-based cleaner. However, other suitable cleaning fluids apparent to one of skill in the art may be used as the present invention is not limited in this respect.

In some situations, it may be desirable to remove the cleaning fluid from the end face of the optical fiber. For example, a cleaning fluid may also act as a contaminant itself. Therefore, according to some embodiments, it may be desirable to also employ a substantially dry cleaning wipe. In certain embodiments, the fluid dispenser is configured to wet one or more portions of the cleaning wipe20, while leaving other portions of the cleaning wipe20substantially dry. In this manner, as the cleaning wipe is advanced across the end face of the optical fiber, the fiber may be subjected to alternating steps of wet and dry wiping.

In one illustrative embodiment, the apparatus is configured to wet only a portion of the cleaning wipe20with a cleaning fluid. For example, the fluid dispenser70may be used to wet a portion of the cleaning wipe, and in one embodiment, separated portions of the cleaning wipe20may be wetted with the cleaning fluid. As mentioned above, cleaning fluids may assist in the removal of certain contaminants from the end face of an optical fiber. However, the cleaning fluid itself may leave a residue on the optical fiber which may alter the optical qualities of the end face, thereby acting as contaminant.

In one illustrative embodiment, a first portion of the cleaning wipe20is wetted with a cleaning fluid, while a second portion of the cleaning wipe20adjacent the first portion of the cleaning wipe20remains substantially free of the fluid. The first portion of the cleaning wipe20may be advanced across the end face of an optical fiber to clean the fiber, and thereafter the second portion of the cleaning wipe20may be advanced across the end face of the optical fiber to further clean the fiber and may remove cleaning fluid which remained on the fiber.

It is also contemplated that the above-described alternating step of wet and dry wiping may be repeated multiple times. For example, in one illustrative embodiment, a third portion of the cleaning wipe20, which is separated from the first portion of the cleaning wipe20and adjacent the second portion may be wetted with the cleaning fluid, while the second portion, as well as a fourth portion of the cleaning wipe which is also adjacent the third portion remains substantially free of the fluid. The third portion of the cleaning wipe20may be advanced across the end face of the optical fiber to further clean the optical fiber. Thereafter, the fourth portion of the cleaning wipe may be advanced across the end face of the optical fiber to further clean the fiber and may remove cleaning fluid remaining on the fiber. According to certain embodiments, this alternating wet/dry technique to clean an optical fiber may be an effective approach to remove various types of contaminants.

Tension Controller

Aspects of the present invention may contemplate controlling the tension in the cleaning wipe20. The tension in the cleaning wipe20may increase when the cleaning wipe20is advanced along a portion of the cleaning tip22. The tension may also increase when the cleaning wipe20contacts the optical fiber or fiber optic connector. Such tension may lead to potential tearing of the cleaning wipe20, which may be undesirable as it may affect the operability of the cleaning apparatus.

One illustrative embodiment of a tension controller will now be described with reference toFIGS. 3 and 4. As explained above, the cleaning wipe20may be unwound from a feed reel40and wound up onto a take-up reel42after the cleaning wipe has cleaned an optical fiber. A drive mechanism, which may include a take-up motor130, may drive the advancement of the cleaning wipe20by rotating the take-up reel42in a counter clockwise direction. The rotation of the take-up reel42may also draw cleaning wipe from the feed roll40which may rotate the feed reel40in a counter clockwise direction. A feed reel encoder62may be provided to sense the rotational motion of the feed reel40which may be used to determine how much and/or how fast the cleaning wipe20is being advanced. It should be appreciated that other mechanisms or actuators, such as a feed reel motor (not shown) in combination with or instead of the take-up motor130may be employed with the drive mechanism as would be apparent to one of skill in the art.

According to one illustrative embodiment, the tension controller includes a tension dancer arm assembly140to control the tension in the cleaning wipe20. In the embodiment shown inFIG. 4, the tension dancer arm assembly140includes a dancer pulley wheel142that is rotatably mounted to a dancer arm144, which is in turn pivotally mounted to a dancer bearing146. InFIG. 4, the feed reel40and take-up reel42are depicted in phantom lines to illustrate some of the components positioned behind these reels. As shown inFIG. 3, the cleaning wipe20may be threaded through the dancer pulley wheel142.

As the tension in the cleaning wipe20increases, the tension dancer arm assembly140rotates which may deflect the dancer arm144. A dancer encoder148or other sensor may be located at the point where the dancer arm144is pivotally mounted to the bearing146to sense the rotation of the dancer arm144. The specific tension in the wipe may be calculated by the amount of deflection of the dancer arm144. Based on this data, the tension in the cleaning wipe20may be controlled and maintained by regulating the rate at which the cleaning wipe20is dispensed from the feed reel40such that constant deflection of the dancer arm144is achieved. As discussed in greater detail below, the data from the dancer encoder148may be transmitted to a control system which may be configured to regulate the amount of tension in the cleaning wipe20. It is to be appreciated that other tension controller configurations apparent to one of skill in the art may also be used as the present invention is not limited in this respect.

One of the benefits which may be associated with incorporating a tension controller, such as a tension dancer arm assembly140, into an apparatus for cleaning an optical fiber is that a tension controller may reduce or eliminate tearing of the cleaning wipe20during operation of the cleaning apparatus. A maximum threshold tension may be determined for a specific type of cleaning wipe material, and the tension controller may be used to maintain the tension in the cleaning wipe below that level to reduce the incidence of tearing.

The use of a tension controller may also allow for use of a variety of materials as the cleaning wipe20. For example, as described below, a non-woven material or a woven material may be used to form the cleaning wipe20. However, a non-woven material may not be as strong and/or durable as a woven material. In certain embodiments, the tension controller permits the cleaning wipe20to be constructed from a less durable material, such as a non-woven material, because the amount of tension in the wipe20may be reduced and controlled to prevent tearing of the material.

Additionally, the use of a tension controller may also be beneficial when a cleaning fluid is dispensed onto the cleaning wipe. When the cleaning wipe20is wetted, the wipe20may become weaker. However, the tension controller may reduce and control the amount of tension in the wipe to reduce tearing which may otherwise be associated with the use of a wet cleaning wipe20. Therefore, according to certain embodiments, the tension controller in the cleaning apparatus enables the cleaning wipe20to be made from less durable materials such as a non-woven material, and the tension controller also permits the apparatus to also function with a wetted cleaning wipe.

Force Controller

Aspects of the present invention may contemplate controlling the force exerted by the cleaning tip22against an optical fiber. A certain amount of force against the optical fiber may be needed to adequately engage the fiber to clean and remove certain contaminants from the optical fiber. However, too great of a force may potentially damage and/or break the optical fiber. For example, too great a force may act to drag a contaminant across the optical fiber which may scratch the fiber. Therefore, a certain force or force range exerted by the cleaning tip22may be desirable for cleaning an optical fiber. The specific desired force or force range may depend upon a variety of factors including, but not limited to, the type and size of optical fiber.

One illustrative embodiment of a force controller will now be described with reference toFIGS. 3 and 4. As discussed above, in one embodiment, the cleaning tip22is moveable relative to the housing30. This movement of the cleaning tip22may be linear and/or rotational movement with respect to the housing30. As described above, the cleaning tip22may be coupled to a main carriage60for movement therewith. In one embodiment, an actuator, such as a carriage motor106, imparts linear movement into the cleaning tip22through the movement of the main carriage60.

In one embodiment illustrated inFIG. 3, a driving carriage108may be coupled to the main carriage60and the carriage motor106. One end of a linkage110may be fixed to the driving carriage108at a pivot point112while the other end of the linkage110may be movably supported by the main carriage60. In this illustrative embodiment, the movable end of the linkage110is coupled to the main carriage60at fixed points116,118with two extension springs114which extend outwardly from the linkage110.

To advance the main carriage60and cleaning tip22in a linear direction towards the optical fiber and fiber optic connector10, the carriage motor106may be actuated. As shown inFIGS. 3 and 4, this actuation translates into linear movement of the driving carriage108through gears120which turn ball screw122which may move a follower124coupled to the driving carriage108. As the driving carriage108moves forward, the main carriage60also moves in a forward direction with the driving carriage108. It should be appreciated that other suitable mechanisms apparent to one of skill in the art for moving the carriages in a linear direction are also contemplated as the present invention is not limited in this respect.

In the illustrative embodiment, the force exerted by the cleaning tip22against an optical fiber may be controlled by the springs114. In particular, when there is no or little force exerted by the cleaning tip22, there may be little to no deflection of the springs114. There may not be significant spring deflection because the main carriage60will follow the movement of the driving carriage108. Once the cleaning tip22contacts or engages an optical fiber, the forward movement of the cleaning tip22may be limited by the contact with the fiber. However, this contact may not stop movement of the driving carriage108because the two carriages may be resiliently coupled together by the springs. The springs may then deflect due to movement of the driving carriage relative to the main carriage. This spring deflection may correspond to the amount of force exerted by the cleaning tip22. The greater the deflection in the springs114, the greater the amount of force exerted the cleaning tip20.

This deflection may be measured to determine the force exerted by the cleaning tip22on the optical fiber. In one embodiment, the force may be calculated based upon the spring deflection and the spring constant. With this data, the force against the optical fiber may be controlled and maintained, for example, by regulating the movement of the cleaning tip22with respect to the housing30. In one embodiment, a substantially constant force against the optical fiber may be achieved by maintaining a substantially constant spring deflection. As discussed in greater detail below, force data may be transmitted to a control system which may be used to regulate the amount of force exerted against the optical fiber.

In one embodiment, the amount of spring deflection may be measured by a sensor which monitors the relative difference in motion between the main carriage60and the driving carriage108. However it should be appreciated that the force exerted against an optical fiber may also be measured and controlled in other ways apparent to one of skill in the art, as the present invention is not so limited.

Another illustrative embodiment for controlling and maintaining the force exerted by the cleaning tip22against an optical fiber will now be described. This embodiment is related to one of the above-described embodiments for controlling tension in the cleaning wipe20. In this embodiment, the carriage motor106may still turn ball screw122which moves the driving carriage108in a forward direction. The driving carriage108may also still move the main carriage60in a forward direction through the resilient spring coupling. As the main carriage60and the cleaning tip22move forward, the cleaning wipe20may be advanced along the cleaning tip22by the take-up motor130. As explained above, when the cleaning wipe20contacts the optical fiber, the cleaning wipe may be “pinched” between the optical fiber and the cleaning tip20which may cause an increase in the tension in the cleaning wipe20. This tension may cause the tension dancer arm assembly140to rotate in a counterclockwise direction. This motion may be detected and sensed by the dancer encoder148. The axial force exerted against the optical fiber may also be determined based upon the sensed amount of rotation of the dancer arm assembly140. The force exerted on the optical fiber may be held substantially constant by maintaining the angular position of the dancer arm assembly140. As stated above, the force data may be transmitted to a control system which may be used to regulate the amount of force exerted against the optical fiber.

Yet another embodiment for controlling and maintaining the force exerted by the cleaning tip22against an optical fiber is illustrated inFIG. 2. Force regulator springs122may be provided with one end of each spring122coupled to the main carriage60and the other end of the springs122may be coupled to the housing30. As the cleaning tip22moves in a forward direction with the main carriage60, the regulator springs122may deflect. Once the cleaning tip22engages an optical fiber, forward movement of the cleaning tip22and main carriage may stop, preventing further deflection of the springs122. However, force against the optical fiber may continue to increase if the cam actuator62is still moving. Data taken from the springs122and the actuator62may be utilized to determine and control the force exerted against an optical fiber similar to some of the above-described embodiments.

Cleaning Wipe

Aspects of the present invention are directed to the cleaning wipe20. As described above, the cleaning wipe20may be formed of various materials, including woven and non-woven materials. In some embodiments, a non-woven material, such as a paper-based or felt-based material, may be more effective at removing contaminants. Although a non-woven material may be less durable in comparison to a woven material, certain embodiments of the apparatus including a tension controller may reduce the incidence of tearing less durable materials, such as non-woven materials.

In some embodiments, the cleaning wipe is a lint-free material. It is contemplated that the cleaning wipe is formed from a standardized clean room wipe material, and may for example be a mixture of cellulose and polyester. However, it should be appreciated that other suitable materials apparent to one of skill in the art may be used to form the cleaning wipe20as the invention is not so limited. In some embodiments, the cleaning wipe may form a narrow web or an elongated ribbon-like configuration similar to conventional dental floss. The width of the cleaning wipe may also vary depending upon the diameter of the optical fiber to be cleaned.

In the illustrative embodiment ofFIG. 5, it is also contemplated that the cleaning wipe20includes at least one fluid barrier positioned between portions of the cleaning wipe20such that fluid on one side of the barrier may not pass through the fluid barrier. In this manner, the fluid barrier206may prevent wicking of a cleaning fluid across the cleaning wipe. In one embodiment, a cleaning wipe with a fluid barrier may be used to assist in carrying out the alternating steps of wet and dry wiping by preventing fluid from a wet portion to migrate into an adjacent dry portion.

For example, as shown inFIG. 5, a cleaning wipe20includes a first wettable portion200, a second wettable portion202, and a fluid barrier206positioned between the first wettable portion200and the second wettable portion202to prevent fluid flow. As shown in the illustrated embodiment ofFIG. 5, a plurality of fluid barriers206may be provided spaced apart along the cleaning wipe20to prevent fluid flow between numerous portions202,204,206of the cleaning wipe. As shown, the fluid barriers206may transversely extend along the cleaning wipe20. In one embodiment, the first wettable portion200is wetted with a cleaning fluid, while a second wettable portion202of the cleaning wipe20adjacent the first portion200remains substantially free of the fluid. The first wettable portion200may be advanced across the end face of an optical fiber to clean the fiber, and thereafter the second wettable portion202may be advanced across the end face of the optical fiber to further clean the fiber and may remove cleaning fluid which remained on the fiber.

The fluid barrier206may be formed by a variety of techniques as the present invention is not so limited. In one illustrative embodiment, a fluid barrier may be formed by creating a heat seal across the width of the cleaning wipe20. Such a seal may be made by running a hot knife along the cleaning wipe20to melt a portion of the wipe material. However, it should be understood that fluid barriers206are not required in all embodiments of the present invention. It is also to be appreciated that fluid barriers206, if desired, may be formed with other suitable techniques apparent to one of skill in the art, as the present invention is not so limited.

Automation of Cleaning Apparatus

Aspects of the present invention are directed to an automated apparatus for cleaning an optical fiber supported by a fiber optic connector. An apparatus with one or more automated features may enhance the effectiveness of removing contaminants from an optical fiber.

As mentioned above, the housing30may include a trigger36(seeFIG. 2) which may be provided to actuate a cleaning process the optical fiber. In one embodiment, once the cleaning apparatus is aligned with the optical fiber and/or connector, an operator may depress the trigger36to actuate an automatic cleaning process or cycle. Once the cleaning process is actuated, the operator may only have to hold the cleaning apparatus against the connector cavity12until the cleaning process is completed. The cleaning apparatus100may include an indicator90, such as an LED, which may signal to the operator that the cleaning process is complete, such that the operator will know when he/she can remove the cleaning apparatus.

It is contemplated that the mechanical wiping of the optical fiber and/or the application of the cleaning fluid may be automated with certain embodiments of the cleaning apparatus. The movement of the cleaning tip22in and out of the housing30may also be automated. As the cleaning wipe20is advanced along the cleaning tip22, at certain intervals, the fluid dispenser70may automatically wet portions of the cleaning wipe20to clean the optical fiber.

Various types of controls may be incorporated into the cleaning apparatus to automate different features of the apparatus. In one illustrative embodiment shown in the control block diagram inFIG. 6, a main processor200may interact with and control one or more different controllers. As shown, a carriage/cleaning tip controller202may be used to send an actuator control signal to control the linear movement of the cleaning tip22.

A force controller204may be used to send a force control signal to control and maintain the force exerted against an optical fiber based upon a desired force or force range. As discussed above, data regarding the force exerted on an optical fiber may be transmitted to a control system, such as the main processor200, to regulate the amount of force exerted against the optical fiber.

Another type of controller includes a cleaning tip rotation controller206which may be used to send a rotation control signal to the rotator motor104(seeFIG. 3) to actuate rotation of the cleaning tip in response to an actuator control signal.

A cleaning wipe feed controller208may be used to send a drive control signal to the drive mechanism to advance the cleaning wipe20. The cleaning wipe feed controller208may be used to send a drive control signal to the take-up motor130to unwind the cleaning wipe from the feed reel.

A tension controller210may be used to send a tension control signal to control and maintain the tension in the cleaning wipe. The tension controller210may determine tension based upon data from the tension dancer arm assembly140.

A fluid dispensing controller212may be used to send a fluid control signal to the fluid dispenser70to control and maintain the volume and timing of fluid dispensed onto the cleaning wipe. The fluid dispensing controller212may also, in combination with the cleaning wipe feed controller208, control how fluid is dispensed along the length of the cleaning wipe20. For example, in embodiments where alternating wet/dry portions of the cleaning wipe20is desirable, the timing between intermittent dispensing of fluid from the fluid dispenser70combined with the speed of the advancement of the cleaning wipe20may be controlled through the main processor200to achieve a desirable wet/dry cleaning pattern.

There may also be an operator signaling controller214. This feature will now be explained. In some circumstances, it may be desirable to inhibit the actuation of the cleaning apparatus until it is positioned in a desired location. For example, in one embodiment, the cleaning apparatus may not be actuated until the apparatus is aligned with an optical fiber or connector. This may prevent wasting the cleaning wipe and/or the cleaning fluid. In one embodiment, a sensor92(seeFIG. 2) may be located on the cleaning apparatus to determine whether the apparatus is against a connector or optical fiber. For example, before the sensor92senses an optical fiber or a connector, the operator may not be able to actuate the automated cleaning process by depressing the trigger36. However, once the sensor92senses that the apparatus is docked against a connector, the apparatus may then be configured such that the operator may actuate the automated process. In one embodiment, once the apparatus is docked against a connector, the indicator90may turn on or flash to signal to the operator that he/she may actuate the process. In the illustrative embodiment ofFIG. 2, the sensor92extends about the distal portion of the elongated support32of the housing30. However, it should be appreciated that various types of sensors, such as proximity sensors and optical sensors may also be used as the present invention is not so limited.

Software or firmware may control the desired sequence of the automated operation of the cleaning process. Although the specific sequence may be programmed for certain applications, the following sequence of automated operations is contemplated by the present invention. First, a sensor92may sense when the apparatus is docked against a connector or optical fiber. Thereafter, a signal may be sent to the operator via the indicator90, to signal that the operator is able to actuate the cleaning process. Thereafter, the operator may actuate the automated cycle by depressing the trigger36.

Through the main processor200, the cleaning tip22may be extended linearly to contact the end face of the optical fiber. The main processor200may also actuate the advancement of the cleaning wipe20along the cleaning tip22. The main processor200may also control the rotation of the cleaning tip22which may occur as the cleaning wipe20is advanced, and the dispensing of the cleaning fluid onto the cleaning wipe20at predetermined intervals.

Once the optical fiber is cleaned with the cleaning wipe20, the main processor may signal the cleaning tip22to return to its original rotational orientation, signal the fluid dispenser70to cease dispensing fluid, and/or signal the cleaning tip22to retract into the housing30. The main processor200may further signal the advancing of the cleaning wipe20to cease and thereafter a signal may be sent to the operator via the indicator90to specify that the automated cleaning process is completed so that the operator may remove the cleaning apparatus from the connector.

It is contemplated that in certain embodiments, the cleaning apparatus100is cordless and battery powered, and both the batteries and the main processor200may be located within the housing30. However, it should be appreciated that it is also contemplated for certain components to be outside of the housing30and the apparatus may also be powered by standard AC current.

For some applications, it may be desirable for one or more components of the cleaning apparatus to be detachable and replaceable. In this respect, certain components, such as the fluid dispenser70and the cleaning wipe20, may be discarded after use without having to discard the entire cleaning apparatus. This may be desirable to maximize the life of reusable components including, but not limited to, the housing, the controls, actuators, encoders, etc.

In one illustrative embodiment shown inFIG. 7, the cleaning wipe20may be detachable and replaceable. For example, in one embodiment, once the supply of the cleaning wipe20provided on the feed reel40is exhausted, the used cleaning wipe may be discarded and replaced with a fresh supply of cleaning wipe.

In the illustrated embodiment ofFIG. 7, the cleaning wipe20may be contained within a cartridge220. To insert a new cleaning wipe20into the apparatus, the operator may open up a portion of the housing30to remove the spent cleaning wipe cartridge220and may replace it with a new cleaning wipe cartridge220. The replacement process may be similar to inserting a cassette into a cassette player. It is also contemplated that the cartridge220may include features which engage with features in the housing30for a snap-fit.

As shown inFIG. 7, the cartridge220may include a supply of cleaning wipe20, a feed reel40and a take-up reel42. The cartridge200may further include a replacement cleaning tip22and a tension dancer arm assembly140. However, other embodiments of the cartridge220may not include all of these components and/or may include additional components.

The cartridge220may be constructed such that various mechanisms in the housing30, such as encoders and actuators, may align and mate with portions of the cartridge220. For example, as discussed above, in some embodiments, a dancer encoder148is provided to sense rotation of the dancer arm assembly140. The cartridge220may include a coupling230proximate the tension dancer arm assembly140such that the dancer encoder148in the housing30may continue to sense rotation of the new dancer arm assembly140. Another coupling236may be provided proximate the new feed reel40so that the feed reel encoder62may continue to sense the rotation of the feed reel40. Similarly, a coupling232may be provided so that the new take-up reel42may be driven by the take-up motor130. Furthermore, in embodiments where the cleaning tip moves rotationally to clean an optical fiber, a gear coupling234may be provided on the new cleaning tip in the cartridge220to connect the cleaning tip to the rotation motor104. However, it is appreciated that some embodiments which feature a cartridge220for replacing the cleaning wipe20may not include each of these couplings.

In another embodiment, portions of the fluid dispenser70may be detachable so that when the fluid source is depleted, a new supply of cleaning fluid may be added to the cleaning apparatus. It is contemplated that the cleaning fluid may be added to the existing fluid chamber72. However, it is also contemplated that the apparatus may include a detachable fluid chamber72or fluid cartridge. Similar to the above-described cleaning wipe cartridge220, a fluid cartridge (not shown) may also be accessible through an opening in the housing30and may be supported by the housing with a snap-fit or other suitable engagement. Furthermore, it is also contemplated that the fluid cartridge and the cleaning wipe cartridge may be formed a single unit. However, in some embodiments, the cleaning wipe20may require replacement more often than the cleaning fluid, so it may be desirable to employ separately replaceable cartridges.

Adaptors

Aspects of the present invention are drawn to various adaptors that facilitate positioning of the cleaning apparatus relative to the fiber optic connector. In some illustrative embodiments, the adaptor includes a stabilizer that is supported on the housing30of the cleaning apparatus. The stabilizer may be configured to engage the connector to stabilize the housing30with respect to the connector by maintaining a fixed angular orientation of the housing relative to the connector. Illustrative embodiments of a stabilizer300are explained with reference toFIGS. 8-12.

As discussed above, in certain embodiments, the operator handling the cleaning apparatus100may simply be required to hold the apparatus while an automatic optical fiber cleaning process is performed. It may be desirable for the operator to hold the apparatus in a specific angular position while performing the cleaning process. For example, in one illustrative embodiment, it may be desirable for the cleaning apparatus to be held such that the longitudinal axis of the cleaning tip22is substantially perpendicular to an end face of an optical fiber. Altering the angular orientation of the housing30during the cleaning process may cause damage to the optical fiber and/or the cleaning apparatus itself. However, if the cleaning apparatus does not have a wide base proximate the connector10, slight movements by the operator may change the angular orientation of the apparatus. Therefore, in certain embodiments, the stabilizer300provides a wide base to hold the apparatus steady as an optical fiber is cleaned.

As shown in the illustrative embodiments ofFIGS. 8 and 9, a stabilizer300may be attached to the housing30to support the cleaning apparatus100using a wide base with respect to a fiber optic connector10. In this embodiment, the stabilizer300may align and/or maintain the axis250of the cleaning tip22with the axis of the cavity in the connector10.

In one illustrative embodiment, the stabilizer300maintains the angular orientation of the housing30with respect to the connector10by contacting the fiber optic connector10at least at three spaced apart locations. As shown in the figures, the stabilizer300may also maintain the angular orientation by extending out to and contacting the periphery of the connector. In certain embodiments, the stabilizer300is configured to contact the outer periphery260of the connector at a plurality of locations. As shown inFIG. 10, in some embodiments, a connector10may be formed with an annular peripheral portion defining an inner periphery270and an outer periphery260of the connector, and the stabilizer300contacts at least a portion of the periphery portion of the connector10.

In one illustrative embodiment, the stabilizer300includes a plurality of arms304extending outwardly from a central region. In this regard, the stabilizer300may be substantially star-shaped. The central region may include an opening302therethrough, such that at least a portion of a cleaning media, such as the cleaning wipe20, can pass through the opening302to access a portion of the optical fiber. It should be appreciated that in some embodiments, cleaning media may broadly include cleaning fluid, cleaning tips, pressurized air, and the like. As shown in the embodiment ofFIG. 8, the housing30of the cleaning apparatus may be coupled to the stabilizer300through this opening302in the central region of the stabilizer300.

As illustrated in the embodiments ofFIGS. 10-12, the stabilizer300may be shaped such that the distance between the opening302in the stabilizer300and the outer perimeter of the stabilizer is non-uniform. In this embodiment, the orientation of the stabilizer may be adjusted to accommodate obstructions, such as fixed walls or other components, in close proximity to the connector. For example, the shorter portion of the stabilizer may be positioned closer to the obstruction, as shown inFIG. 11.

In one illustrative embodiment shown inFIGS. 10-12, the stabilizer300includes a plurality of arms304extending outwardly from the central region, where the plurality of arms304are of varying lengths. The arms304of differing lengths may permit the stabilizer300to be used with a cleaning apparatus where there may be limited space around the connector10due to obstructions. For example, in the embodiment ofFIGS. 11 and 12, the connector10is shown positioned proximate a fixed wall350. An optical fiber recessed with the connector10may still be accessed by a cleaning apparatus with a stabilizer300even when the optical fiber is positioned close to the wall350due to the positioning of the shorter arms304closer to the fixed wall350.

As shown, in one embodiment, the optical fiber to be cleaned may be a short distance360,362away from the fixed wall. Although the size and configuration of the stabilizer300may vary for a particular use, in one embodiment, the stabilizer300may be sized such that the distance360,362away from the fixed wall350is from approximately 0.4 to approximately 1.0 inch. In other embodiments, the same stabilizer300may be used in a different orientation if the placement of obstructions around the connector change.

It should be understood that althoughFIGS. 10-12illustrate a star-shaped stabilizer300that all embodiments of the present invention do not require a stabilizer. Furthermore, other shaped stabilizers300configured to maintain a fixed angular orientation of the housing relative to the connector apparent to one of skill in the art may also be used. For example, in one embodiment, the stabilizer may be a substantially planar, and may be substantially disc-shaped. It is contemplated, for example, that the stabilizer may be circular, triangular, or rectangular in shape, as the present invention is not so limited. In one embodiment, the stabilizer has a peripheral configuration such that the distance between the opening302in the stabilizer300and the outer perimeter of the stabilizer varies to be able to adjust the orientation of the stabilizer300to accommodate obstructions.

In one embodiment, at least a portion of the connector10is visible through the stabilizer300. This may enable the operator to easily align the stabilizer300and cleaning apparatus100with an optical fiber and connector. For example, in one illustrative embodiment shown inFIGS. 10-12, at least a portion of the connector10is visible in between the plurality of arms304of the stabilizer300. It is also contemplated that portions of the stabilizer300may be made from a transparent material to enable the connector10to be visible through the stabilizer300.

It is also contemplated that an adaptor (not shown) configured for a particular type of optical fiber or connector10may be attached to the housing30. Such an adaptor may be specific for male connectors and female connectors. For example, in one embodiment, an adaptor may be configured similar to the elongated support32of the housing30(seeFIG. 2). This adaptor may attach to the housing to assist in cleaning certain shaped fiber optic connectors.

It should be understood that the foregoing description of various embodiments of the invention are intended merely to be illustrative thereof and that other embodiments, modifications, and equivalents of the invention are within the scope of the invention recited in the claims appended hereto.