Abstract: Various methods, apparatuses, and systems in which an alignment tool holds an optical fiber and an optical alignment component in place during induction soldering. The alignment tool has alignment adjustments for the optical fiber as well as the optical alignment component. An induction soldering station induction solders the optical fiber to the optical alignment component in order to secure the optical fiber to the optical alignment component.

Abstract: Various methods, apparatuses, and systems in which an alignment tool holds an optical fiber and an optical alignment component in place during induction soldering. The alignment tool has alignment adjustments for the optical fiber as well as the optical alignment component. An induction soldering station induction solders the optical fiber to the optical alignment component in order to secure the optical fiber to the optical alignment component.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is an orthodontic article, a method of making an orthodontic article and an apparatus for making the orthodontic article. The orthodontic article is made by laser welding the work piece, comprising a bracket body and a the pad, together. The article thus formed includes a laser-welded seal around the perimeter of the adjoining areas between the pad and the bracket body. In an exemplary embodiment the apparatus of the invention, makes a series of closely spaced spot welds. The spot welds, in an exemplary embodiment, are significantly overlapped that they form a seal around the entire perimeter of the work piece adjoining areas. The spot welds, in an exemplary embodiment, are significantly overlapped that they form a hermetic seal between the pad and the bracket body. In other exemplary embodiments, the process of manufacturing orthodontic articles is automated and controlled by a computer and computer software.