Abstract: A Mach-Zehnder device including an input port, an output port, a substantially achromatic first coupling region optically connected to the input port and a substantially achromatic second coupling region optically connected to the output port. An intermediate region is optically connected to the first and second coupling regions. The intermediate region includes a first intermediate branch and a second intermediate branch. The first intermediate branch defines a phase shifting portion. The phase shifting portion, in turn, defines a phase shifting portion level of birefringence over the length of the phase shifting portion. The phase shifting portion level of birefringence is different that the level of birefringence prevailing over the remainder of the first intermediate branch.

Abstract: An optical fiber winding tool for winding a strip of optical fiber. The optical fiber winding tool having a guiding body defining a guiding recess. A fiber inlet aperture extends into the guiding recess for allowing the slideable insertion of the strip of optical fiber thereinto. The recess peripheral wall is configured and sized such that as the strip of optical fiber is inserted through the fiber inlet aperture, a recess peripheral surface abuttingly guides the optical fiber strip into a generally parabolic configuration that sweeps against the recess peripheral surface while the optical fiber winds into a coil. The optical fiber winding tool is mountable over a flat surface with the peripheral edge of the guiding recess abuttingly contacting the supporting surface. A driving assembly is optionally provided for driving the strip of fiber into the guiding recess.

Abstract: An hose winding apparatus for winding fire hoses. The apparatus has a base member and an upwardly extending vertical support structure. An horizontal support structure extends frontwardly from the vertical support structure. A manual reel having a crank handle is provided for winding the hose. The reel is positioned on the distal end of the horizontal support structure. A pair of squeezing rollers are mounted on the vertical support structure. The squeezing rollers are adapted to squeeze the hose into a flat configuration as it is being wound on the reel. A foot operated mechanism allows the user to temporarily separate the squeezing rollers so as to allow passage of the coupling components at both ends of the hose. A stopper plate is pivotally mounted underneath the horizontal support structure. The stopper plate is adapted to prevent the coupling components from swinging freely and from injuring the user. An abutment plate extends rearwardly from the vertical support structure.