The SMARTSPLICER™ is designed for highly specialized and advanced fiber processing tasks. Intelligent tool holders allow the device to be adapted to different applications. This enables the device to perform fiber-to-fiber splicing, fiber-to-sleeve splice, and tapering. Precise cameras also allow for polarization maintenance and rotation of micro-structured fibers for advanced splicing needs. The SMARTSPLICER™ can also be used for the fabrication of field-mode adapters and pump combiners.
All SMARTSPLICER™ processes are controlled by a comprehensive control program, making the device highly automated and easy to use. Cameras and other sensors ensure that fibers and end sleeves can be automatically aligned. Splicing and tapering processes are also performed fully automatically and with high repeatability in just a few seconds. The program also allows for a high degree of control and customization of all processes, ensuring that each different application can be executed perfectly regardless of size, geometry, or material.
The device was developed in close collaboration between Nyfors Teknologi AB in Stockholm, Sweden, and Fraunhofer IOF in Jena, Germany. Fraunhofer IOF was particularly involved in the design and construction of the patent-pending Axicon Splicing™ optical system, which enables uniform heating for all processes.
The development of the SMARTSPLICER™ has been carried out within a research project funded by the Eureka Eurostars program through national DLR funding agencies in Germany and Vinnova, Sweden.
