Method and apparatus for affixing an optic fiber tip in position with respect to a fiber communications circuit
 The invention disclosed includes both a method and apparatus for affixing an optic fiber tip in position with respect to a fiber communications circuit. In one embodiment of the method, a glass positioning member is located proximate the tip of the optic fiber. In another step, the glass positioning member is affixed to the fiber at a first position with respect to the fiber tip. The glass positioning member is also affixed in a second position with respect to the carrier. In a more detailed embodiment, the method of the present invention includes positioning the optic fiber through a channel of the glass positioning member. Heat is applied to the glass positioning member causing it to soften such that its channel collapses around and fuses to the fiber. In still further detail, the fused positioning member/fiber are affixed to a block, and the block is fused to a carrier. Alignment steps are taken during the fusing steps to locate the tip of the fiber in the desired position relative to the fiber communications circuitry. 
Alcatel Network Systems, Inc.
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Harry B. David L. S. Robert L. Andrew J.
Bonham, Jr. Ma Bontz Moore