Abstract: A modular mold assembly according to the present invention provides a modular exposed surface, which provides a layup surface which receives uncured prepreg composite material layers. In one orientation, the mold portions are mountable to each other and to a mold base such that the exposed surfaces define a continuos substantially U-shaped layup surface. In another assembly orientation secondary engagement surface are mated such that a substantially curved layup is formed from the exposed surface. In yet another mold assembly orientation, a mold support surface is mounted to a subset of the mold portions such that another layup surface is formed for composite components which require an extended portion. Guide outlines are provided within the exposed surface in predetermined areas as locators for a plurality of composite material layers which form a panel which is smaller than the exposed surface.

Abstract: A fiber optic terminus (10) for use in fiber optic cable connections which terminus (10) includes an optical fiber (12) disposed within and supported by a ferrule (24). The fiber optic terminus (10) is characterized by a terminus end profile (50) wherein the end surface (52) of the optical fiber (12) is recessed or undercut relative to face surface (28) of the ferrule (24). In another embodiment of the invention, the face surface (28) of the ferrule (24) defines a surface angle .phi. which is less than about 2.0 degrees to minimize transmission losses when termini are assembled in opposed relation.

Abstract: A method for manufacturing a fiber optic terminus (10) having an optical fiber (12) disposed within and supported by a ferrule assembly (22). The method includes the steps of: stripping a fiber optic cable (8) to expose the optical fiber (12), bonding the stripped-end of the fiber optic cable (8) to a ferrule assembly (22), cleaving the optical fiber (12) in close proximity to a face surface (28) of the ferrule assembly (22), polishing the cleaved-end of the optical fiber (12) to achieve a terminus end profile, and inspecting the polished-end of the optical fiber (12) to determine whether the terminus end profile conforms to predefined acceptance criteria.