Abstract: An integrated, automated system for terminating an optical fiber with an optical connector which includes an apparatus for preparing adhesive for injection into an optical connector, an apparatus for injecting adhesive into an optical connector, an apparatus for inserting a fiber optic cable into an optical connector, and an apparatus for curing an adhesive following insertion of optical fiber into the optical connector. Devices that utilize vibratory or wave energy throughout the assembly process are also provided, as are feedback modules that enhance the accuracy and efficiency of the system.

Abstract: An integrated, automated system for terminating an optical fiber with an optical connector which includes a process for preparing adhesive for injection into an optical connector, an apparatus and process for injecting adhesive into an optical connector, an apparatus for inserting a fiber optic cable into an optical connector, and a process for curing an adhesive following insertion of optical fiber into the optical connector. Devices and methods that utilize vibratory or wave energy throughout the assembly process are also provided, as are feedback modules that enhance the accuracy and efficiency of the system.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for bonding an overlapping portion of the outer cap (7,7') and inner body (6, 6') of a closed cylindrical capsule (5). A flexible tubular coupling (13,14,20) positioned around the circumference of the capsule (5) is compressed to exert an inward radial force (23) on the capsule (5) while ultrasonic vibratory motion is applied in a direction (12,12') parallel to the axis of the capsule (5) by an ultrasonic transducer (10,10') with a rigid tip (11,11') attached to the coupling (13,14,20). For bonding of gelatinous capsules (5), the unitary coupling (20) or split coupling (13,14) can comprise a polymeric elastomer material such as latex rubber with approximately the same acoustical impedance as the capsule (5).

Abstract: A method of removing gaseous inclusions from a highly viscous liquid (10) that comprises applying sonic energy, as by means of acoustic horns (11), or other suitable acoustic source, in the liquid (10) at an energy intensity sufficient to induce migration and coalescence of the inclusions in the liquid (10), and less than that required to produce substantial cavitation therein, until the volume density of the inclusions has been reduced to a desired level. Typically the frequency and the energy intensity are selected, and adjusted if necessary, to provide a mode of operation whereby the liquid (10) is subjected to a cyclic component of stress that causes bubbles to collide and form larger bubbles, and to a substantially unidirectional component of stress, due to viscous losses and other mechanisms occuring in an acoustic field (e.g.

Abstract: A method for detection of unacceptable solder joints, especially solder pads on printed circuit boards (PCBs), by means of the application of acoustic vibrations over a range of frequencies to the solder joint and observation of the acoustic impedance of the joint as reflected back through the driver to the acoustic generator or through an acoustic detector near the generator to electrical detecting apparatus.

Abstract: A method for flaw detection in solder joints, especially on printed circuit (PC) boards, by means of the application of sonic and ultrasonic energy, with or without an electrical current therewith, upstream of the solder joint and comparison of these acoustic and electrical inputs to their respective modulated outputs downstream of the joint.