OPTICAL FIBER ALIGNMENT AND RETENTION DEVICE

AN OPTICAL FIBER ALIGNMENT AND RETENTION APPARATUS A fiber alignment and retention apparatus having an optical lens with a forwardly directed curved surface molded to a rearward extention having a vee-shaped groove for supporting an optical fiber. An abutment means comprises a vertical stop for positioning the fiber at a focal point of the lens and also includes an abutment gap containing an index matching adhesive for reducing refraction and attenuation of a transmitted optical signal. A heat sensitive shrink sleeve secures the fiber within the vee-shaped groove such that a terminal end of the fiber is aligned with the focal point of the lens. A clamp or spring finger may replace the shrink sleeve. A first alternative embodiment includes a holding means having a cylindrical shaped rearward extension with longitudinal cutaway sections providing a spring tension for securing the fiber. A second alternative embodiment includes a lens with a rearwardly directed radiused surface for guiding and retaining the fiber.