Fiber optic connectors and splices for aircraft applications

Gregory J. Sellers

doi:10.1117/12.254226

14 October 1996 Fiber optic connectors and splices for aircraft applications

Gregory J. Sellers

Proceedings Volume 2840, Fly-by-Light III; (1996) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.254226
Event: SPIE's 1996 International Symposium on Optical Science, Engineering, and Instrumentation, 1996, Denver, CO, United States

Abstract

Fiber optic connectors and splices were designed for connection of multi-fiber cables within the aircraft environment as part of the FLASH program. These devices use novel `multi-fiber positioners' to secure and precisely position multiple mating pairs of individual optical fibers to achieve excellent light throughput characteristics. The multi-fiber positioner is a micromachined structure that includes multiple V-grooves in anisotropically etched silicon. Prototype splices were developed to create a 4- channel optical splice suitable for aircraft application. The multi-fiber positioner is mounted on a flexible polymeric `elevator' and housed within a protective metal shell. The splice and shell design have been developed to facilitate user-friendly operation. The shell assembly includes a novel method for cable attachment and provides an environmental seal. This splice design should allow practicable field use in adverse conditions. Prototype connectors were developed including a 4-channel connector housed in a MIL-C 38999 (shell size #11) and a 16-channel connector (shell size #19). The multi-fiber positioner is mounted within the connector shell using a `floating- contact' concept to provide vibration isolation and allow physical end-face contact. The fiber terminus and rear shell designs have been developed to facilitate user-friendly operation. The rear shell includes new methods for cable attachment and seals for environmental and EMI/RFI protection.

Citation Download Citation

Gregory J. Sellers "Fiber optic connectors and splices for aircraft applications", Proc. SPIE 2840, Fly-by-Light III, (14 October 1996); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.254226

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KEYWORDS

Connectors

Optical fibers

Silicon

Fiber optics

Semiconducting wafers

Etching

Glasses

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