Low-Cost Fiber-Optic Connector Cleaner

We propose to develop a new fiber optic cleaning system that is designed for low-cost, effective cleaning, compact size, and ease of use. The purpose of the Phase I program is to demonstrate the feasibility of our proposed approach. The comprehensive cleaning system incorporates a solvent cleaning device and a pad cleaner. The simple pad cleaner will be sufficient for minor cleaning and removal of loose particles. The solvent cleaning device will be used for more stubborn contaminants such as oils and sticky debris. With simple adaptors, the system will be capable of cleaning both female and male fiber optic connectors as well as various types and sizes of connectors. Emphasis for the Phase I program will be on experimental evaluation of cleaning effectiveness, conceptual packaging design, and cost-effectiveness analysis.