Importance

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Abstract

The instant invention is directed in general to optical systems in which a laser beam is injected into the end of an optical fiber and, more specifically, to laser materials processing systems in which a high power laser beam is injected into the fiber input end for transmission to a remote end of the fiber where materials processing is performed with the emitted beam. In a preferred embodiment of the instant invention, an injection chamber is used to isolate the optical fiber injection end from the surrounding air by enclosing the optical fiber injection end, and providing a gas purge to reduce the air concentration and to keep dust from entering or settling on the optical fiber injection end. This preferred embodiment prevents the ionization of the air surrounding the fiber injection end, thereby preventing the damaging effects of ionization which often occur during optical fiber injection processes.

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First Claim