Automated Fiber Optic Cleaner for Aerospace Connector Maintenance

Linden Photonics proposes a novel approach to cleaning a connector endface. In our design we will use a newly developed adhesive technology that will be pressed against the face of the connector and removed without wiping across the endface and thus reducing the chance of a cleaning related pit or scratch. This design will have significant advantages over traditional cleaning methods including Teflon type tape and will be designed to small and compact so as to fit in tight spots and be highly portable. The Navy seeks an innovative approach to address this maintenance issue and reduce the total ownership costs for current and future aircraft with fiber optic cable plants. Target speed is 1 to 5 seconds per terminus averaged over a multi termini (e.g. MIL-STD-38999 style) connector with ten to thirty male and matching female termini and 99% efficacy or higher so that inspection post cleaning is not required. The goal is to achieve a complete cleaning of a fully populated plug and receptacle in 5 minutes. The cleaning equipment must be field deployable and hand held.