Phase.2　Drama in Development

We made a world debut with our multi-mode fusion splicer. We took the lead from the start with our single fiber fusion splicer with profile alignment system. After an epoch-making discovery and top-secret development, the masterpiece "FSM-20" was born.

The initial fusion splicer was for multi-mode optical fibers having a thick diameter core (50μ) and was easily connected. The shift to the L optical fiber for a single mode (core diameter of 10μor less) started in 1980. This was the time when the true hardships began.

The issue that needed to be cleared first was the connection of the core section. Initially, we considered using the "phase-contrast microscope" or "polarized-light microscope" to make a "visible core section" as a guide based on the difference in refractive index. However, both seemed difficult to introduce to fusion splicers used at laying sites since they require equipment that is too large in size. This was a big obstacle. Under such circumstances, we received a phone call from the laboratory of the then Nippon Telegraph and Telephone Public Corporation: "We are using an ordinary microscope, but we see something like a core of optical fiber. Would you please examine it?" At the beginning, it was like this: "We see nothing." "Yes, we sure do." "No, we don't.” This could be compared to an astronomical observation. You cannot see subtle existence in the first place, but once you capture the substance, it will easily catch your eyes. When we slightly displaced the focus of the microscope, we could without a doubt detect a shade that appeared to be the core section. We then further analyzed it and found it was indeed a core. The research laboratory was full of excitement after we noticed that an ordinary compact microscope could be mounted on fusion splicers.

: Single fiber fusion splicer with profile alignment system "FSM-20"We immediately made a pilot model using the method and tested it at the Ocean Communication Laboratory, where it proved usable. This great discovery acted like a trigger for Fujikura to achieve the top share in the world market and amazing breakthrough points. Fujikura continued development in absolute secrecy. Dedicated researchers were in the experimental laboratory for about a year, spending day and night engaging in improvement and algorism development. In February 1985, we succeeded in practical application of the single fiber fusion splicer with profile alignment system "FSM-20". That single year launched Fujikura ahead of others to establish an unrivaled position.