Objective:
Automating the inspection process of fiber optic connections removes human subjectivity and ensures that a strong level of process control can be implemented and maintained over time. The overall goal of this project was to reduce excessive re-work/replacement of fiber optic connectors during ship construction caused by poor end-face quality and contamination due to inadequate inspection and cleaning procedures.
This effort integrated a MIL-STD-2042B compatible end-face inspection profile with an automated fiber optic connector quality assessment device that provides a “Go/No-Go” result for shipyard and fleet technicians. Successful field tests resulted in the Navy’s approval to use the augmented process for shipboard fiber optic inspections.
Final Report – Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited
Overview
Project Team:
- Newport News Shipbuilding
- Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding Gulf Coast
- KITCO Fiber Optics
- JDSU
- Naval Surface Warfare Center - Carderock
- General Dynamics Bath Iron Works
2010
NSRP ASE Investment: $100K