Method and apparatus for automatically forming a coiled segment of optical fiber

The present invention relates to optical fibers, and more particularly, to methods and apparatus for automating the formation of coiled segments of optical fibers, to be used, for example, in forming connectors for interconnecting optical devices and components. Methods and apparatus for automatically processing an optical fiber to create a fiber coil. In one embodiment, the fiber is wound about a continuously curved winding surface. In another embodiment, the winding surface ensures that a minimum bending radius of the optical fiber is not violated. In another embodiment, the fiber is wound about a rotating winding surface including a gripper spaced from the winding surface and rotatable therewith. In another embodiment, the coil is transferred to a transport medium comprising an engagement feature that engages the coil. In another embodiment, the coil is stripped from the winding surface and inserted in the transport medium without gripping the fiber. In another embodiment, the fiber is wound about a mandrel and stripped by moving the coil relative to the mandrel axis. In other embodiments, the coil is stripped by applying equal stripping force to the coil about an entire circumference of the winding surface, and/or by contacting the coil with a stripper that has a contour that matches a contour of the winding surface. In another embodiment, the coil is moved in a single direction to strip it from the winding surface and insert it in the transport medium. In another embodiment, at least one of the winding surface and the transport medium is moved toward the other to facilitate transferring the coil.