摘要 |
An optical fiber splice element useful for effecting a splice connection between at least two optical fibers comprises a pair of joinable splice halves. Fiber channels are provided on the splice halves extending through the element for accepting an optical fiber. Recess portions are provided on the splice halves to one side of the fiber channel for accepting a tool for applying a force for variably separating the halves to allow for fiber insertion in the fiber channel. Welds for joining the halves are disposed to a side of the fiber channel opposite to the recess portion. The welds are capable of holding the halves together along a side adjacent thereto while allowing the halves to variably separate along a side adjacent the recess portion so that the halves are at an angle to each other when separated by application of a force to the recess portion, with the welds being generally adjacent an apex of an angle so formed by the halves. The welds are capable of encouraging the halves back together when the application of force has ceased.
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