Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for preparing platens to perform lapping operations. The system includes a platter that is rotatably mounted on a base and designed to receive the platen thereon. A main drive motor is provided for rotating the platter and the platen disposed thereon. A plurality of pressure arms are disposed on the base and configured to include a tool receiving portion that can be positioned in alignment with a lapping surface of the platen. A tool is attached to each tool receiving portion so that predetermined operations can be performed on the lapping surface of the platen. A monitor is provided to monitor predetermined parameters and maintain substantially constant conditions while preparing the platen.

Abstract: An abrasive cutting system has an abrasive cutting wheel, a holder for the object to be cut, and means for advancing and retracting the wheel and holder relative to each other. Preferably, the advancing and retracting means is connected to the holder, while the cutting wheel is stationary except for its rotary motion. In accordance with this invention, apparatus for automatically, intermittently advancing the wheel and holder toward each other while the wheel is cutting the object is provided. This automatic, intermittent advancement provides significant improvements over a uniform rate of advancement.

Abstract: Apparatus for polishing the ends of multiple fiber optic members to a precise predetermined length. The invention relates in particular to appartus for gripping and holding a plurality of fiber optic connectors, each of which has a fiber optic cable connected thereto with a small fiber optic end projecting. The apparatus serves to accurately hold and position a large number of such fiber optic connectors and advance them under controlled conditions of speed and force into engagement with a polishing member such as a rotatable platen having an abrasive surface.

Abstract: An abrasive slurry supply system for use in conjunction with a polisher or grinder or the like for preparing the surface of a metallurgical specimen, the system comprising an abrasive slurry reservoir, a first source of air under pressure connected with the reservoir to force the slurry to a spray nozzle, and a second source of air under pressure connected to the nozzle to transform the slurry from a liquid to an atomized mist which is directed to a rotatable platen or lapping wheel of the polisher/grinder machine for use in the preparation of metallurgical specimens.

Abstract: A surface inspection microscope for examining the surface finish of a fiber optic end, the microscope including a fitting for attaching the end of a fiber optic connector, an eyepiece for viewing the fiber optic end, a light source within the microscope for transmitting light along the length of the optic cable, and reflector means for positioning against the opposite end of the fiber optic cable to reflect light from the light source back along the length of the fiber optic cable thereby enhancing the contrast between the end of the fiber optic core and the cladding material which surrounds the core.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for polishing the ends of fiber optic connectors by gripping an end to be polished and yieldingly urging it against a moving abrasive member in a manner so as to gradually build up the force between the fiber optic end and the abrasive member from an initial low force to a maximum force.

Abstract: An alumina slurry supply system for use in conjunction with a polisher or grinder apparatus or the like for preparing the surfaces of metallurgical specimens, the system comprising an alumina slurry reservoir, a recirculation pump disposed in the reservoir, an applicator arm for dispensing the abrasive slurry to a platen or lapping wheel of the polisher or grinder apparatus, a first conduit for receiving slurry pumped from the reservoir, a second conduit connected to the first conduit for recirculating the slurry to the reservoir, a third conduit leading from the first conduit to the applicator arm, a valve in the third conduit movable between an open position to supply abrasive slurry to the applicator arm and a closed position in which all abrasive slurry pumped from the reservoir is recirculated thereto, and a timer for controlling the operation of the valve.