Abstract: Embodiments are directed to a method and device for coupling an optical fiber sensing element to an apparatus under test. A channel is affixed to the apparatus under test. The channel is partially filled with a coupling material. The fiber optic sensing element is placed on the coupling material. Coupling material is placed in the channel to uniformly surround the fiber optic sensing element and tightly couple the fiber optic sensing element to the apparatus under test.

Abstract: Embodiments are directed to a method and device for coupling an optical fiber sensing element to an apparatus under test. A channel is affixed to the apparatus under test. The channel is partially filled with a coupling material. The fiber optic sensing element is placed on the coupling material. Coupling material is placed in the channel to uniformly surround the fiber optic sensing element and tightly couple the fiber optic sensing element to the apparatus under test.

Abstract: A fiber optic connector has a connector body, an elongated ferrule supported in the connector body, and a sleeve fixed on the circumference of a distal tip of the ferrule. The ferrule has an axial passage that opens on a front surface of the tip so that an endface of a fiber retained in the passage is exposed at the front surface. Further, the sleeve has a leading edge that projects a determined distance axially beyond the front surface of the tip to form a recessed region in which the exposed endface of the fiber is set back from the leading edge of the sleeve. A barrier is contained in the recessed region for protecting the fiber endface from damage by surrounding objects. The barrier may include a cured epoxy layer, a lens, or a refractive index matching material optically aligned with the fiber endface.