| abstract |
A bonded optical fiber array (20) includes a parallel coplanar array of longitudinally extending contacting optical fibers (22--22). Each optical fiber is enclosed in inner and outer layers of coating materials and is provided with a color identifier. The inner layer is comprised of a UV curable bonding material having a modulus in the range of about 1 M Pa. For mechanical protection, the outer layer is a UV curable bonding material having a modulus in the range of about 1 GPa. When the optical fibers are disposed in the parallel array, interstices are created between the fibers and between the fibers and an envelope which is spaced no further than about 25 μm at its closest point to each fiber. A UV curable matrix bonding material which has a modulus having a value less than that of the outer coating layer on the fiber and more than that of the inner coating layer fills the interstices, extends to the peripheral line which defines the envelope and bonds together the optical fibers. The modulus of the matrix material and the bond of the matrix material to the color identifier on the optical fibers is such that interfiber and interribbon movement is allowed. Also, accessing of the individual fibers is allowed upon the application of peeling forces by a craftsperson without the need for complex tools and without obfuscating the color identifier. |