Abstract: A new fiber optic cable splice for splicing optical fiber cables together and reconstructing fiber-optic cable that provide substantially enhanced reliability and broadened operating temperature range is disclosed. The disclosed cable splice offer reliable and user friendly solutions to applications in many harsh environments such as avionics, field vehicles, and defense related instrumentation. The cable splice consists of a preassembled one piece splice core and outer mechanical and thermal shielding layers. A simple splicing procedure and key fixtures are also disclosed.

Abstract: A new fiber optic cable splice for splicing optical fiber cables together and reconstructing fiber-optic cable that provide substantially enhanced reliability and broadened operating temperature range is disclosed. The disclosed cable splice offer reliable and user friendly solutions to applications in many harsh environments such as avionics, field vehicles, and defense related instrumentation. The cable splice consists of a preassembled one piece splice core and outer mechanical and thermal shielding layers. A simple splicing procedure and key fixtures are also disclosed.

Abstract: An fiber optic splice having substantially enhanced reliability and broadened operating temperature range uses a light-cured index matching fluid to splice the facing ends of the optical fibers in between two metallic tubes forming a leak-tight, thermally insulating, and mechanically robust outer package.

Abstract: A method and a system for cleaning fiber-optic connectors utilizing compressed-gas cans are disclosed. In one preferred embodiment, a solvent delivery sub-system (200) consisting of a fiber-optic connector interfacing unit (250) and a solvent spraying device (260) is reviewed. In another preferred embodiment, a solvent/contaminant removal sub-system (300) comprising of a compressed-gas can (340), a pressure regulator (345), a particle filter (347), a heating element (349), and a fiber-optic connector interfacing unit (310) is detailed. An additional preferred embodiment (400) is disclosed wherein the solvent delivery and removal sub-systems being integrated. For both the solvent delivery and the solvent/contaminant removal sub-systems, the compressed-gas cans may be obtained commercially. The improved art disclosed herein offers an effective and low cost solution to cleaning fiber-optic connectors.

Abstract: A laser system for the removal of graffiti from a retro-reflective highway sign or other surface includes a mobile crane adapted to support a laser scanner and an ablating laser under the control of a computer. An optical sensor and target indicator cooperate to function as a target acquisition device for identifying portions of a highway sign covered with graffiti. Responsive to the target acquisition device, the computer controls the laser scanner and laser to automatically ablate the graffiti covered portions of the highway sign to remove the graffiti. If needed, any remaining graffiti is manually brushed away and the highway sign is polished to restore the retro-reflective properties.