Abstract: In some embodiments, a method for processing an optical fiber includes: drawing an optical fiber through a draw furnace, conveying the optical fiber through a flame reheating device downstream from the draw furnace, wherein the flame reheating device comprises one or more burners each comprising: a body having a top surface and an opposing bottom surface, an opening within the body extending from the top surface through the body to the bottom surface, wherein the optical fiber passes through the opening, and one or more gas outlets within the body; and igniting a flammable gas provided by the one or more gas outlets to form a flame encircling the optical fiber passing through the opening, wherein the flame heats the optical fiber by at least 100 degrees Celsius at a heating rate exceeding 10,000 degrees Celsius/second.

Abstract: A contractor bidding system gets initial bids with line items. The line items are combined to create a bid package template using line items from each of a plurality of initial bids from different bidders. Each trade can have a number of different items that can be included in the bid. Using the example of painting, for example, there can be supplies, stripping, masks, and the like. Other items might be included in the bid or excluded from the bid or alternates to the bid. The bid template can select which items are included in the bid or excluded from the bid so that when the final bids come they all include or exclude the same items.