摘要 |
The invention relates to plastic optical fiber (POF) processes and systems and involves improved non-polishing termination techniques. The techniques provide good physical and optical characteristics, i.e., smoothness, at the termination point, thereby providing lower losses than conventionally obtained. According to one embodiment, POF is cut while the fiber is under compression. According to another embodiment, the POF is notched and then pulled at a relatively high strain rate to induce fracture. The rate is such that the strain remains in the elastic region, i.e., the fiber exhibits brittle, as opposed to ductile, behavior during the strain. The brittle behavior provides a smooth termination surface, as opposed to a plastically-deformed surface. <IMAGE> |