Abstract: A multi-electrode system comprises a fiber support configured to hold at least one optical fiber and a set of electrodes disposed about the at least one optical fiber and configured to generate arcs between adjacent electrodes to generate a substantially uniform heated field to a circumferential outer surface of the at least one optical fiber. The electrodes can be disposed in at least a partial vacuum.

Abstract: In accordance with various aspects of the present invention, provided is an extremely compact, simple, and cost-effective approach for aligning optical fibers in an optical fiber fusion splicer. The basis of this alignment method is an “S”-Curve Piezo Bending Actuator. The device comprises a thin strip of elastically flexible material (such as spring steel, beryllium copper, or fiber reinforced polymer) that is coated in four areas with a piezoelectric material (such as barium titanate or other known compounds).

Abstract: A method and apparatus for processing an optical fiber includes generating a continuous or pulsed arc in a first area wherein the arc creates a plasma in one or more gasses in the first area. The method further includes positioning a portion of the fiber in a second area adjacent to and outside of the plasma region, wherein coating material that is present on the optical fiber portion is removed when the plasma is present. Alternatively, in the case of a pulsed arc, the optical fiber portion may be positioned at least partially within the plasma region. The positioning step may be performed prior to or subsequent to the arc generating step. The method and apparatus may be utilized in a system that also strips and cleaves optical fibers. Also, a method for reducing the gap resistance between two electrodes by injecting negative ions into the area between the electrodes.