Optical waveguides – With optical coupler – Input/output coupler
Reexamination Certificate
1998-07-08
2001-06-26
Palmer, Phan T. H. (Department: 2874)
Optical waveguides
With optical coupler
Input/output coupler
C385S033000, C385S047000
Reexamination Certificate
active
06253007
ABSTRACT:
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to the field of optical devices and more particularly to a method and apparatus for connecting optical fibers.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
When an optical signal traverses an interface between materials having dissimilar refractive indices, a portion of the optical signal reflects off the interface as a Fresnel reflection. Fresnel reflections caused by a connection of optical devices may introduce noise in an optical system and result in optical signal transmission losses. Where optical fibers are used for duplex transmission of optical signals, crosstalk between fibers can occur.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In accordance with the present invention, an apparatus for connecting optical fibers is provided that substantially eliminates or reduces disadvantages and problems associated with previous techniques.
In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, an apparatus for connecting an optical fiber includes an optical fiber and a lens having a first face coupled to the optical fiber and a second face angled with respect to the first face to direct reflections generated at the second face away from the optical fiber. Another embodiment of the present invention is a method for manufacturing an optical apparatus that includes cutting an optically transmissive material at an angle to define a first lens and a second lens. The first lens has a first face and a second face and the second lens has a first face and a second face. The method continues by coupling a first optical fiber to the first face of the first lens. The method concludes by coupling a second optical fiber to the second face of the second lens.
Technical advantages of the present invention include an optical apparatus that includes a lens having a first face coupled to an optical fiber and a second face angled with respect to the first face to direct reflections generated at the second face away from the optical fiber. In one embodiment, multiple optical fibers are coupled to the first face of the lens. By angling the second face of the lens with respect to the first face, the optical apparatus directs reflections generated at the second face away from the multiple optical fibers to reduce cross-talk among the optical fibers. In another embodiment, the optical apparatus includes one or more optical fibers coupled to a second lens. The second lens removably couples to the first lens to facilitate full duplex transmission of optical signals between the optical fibers coupled to the first lens and the optical fibers coupled to the second lens.
Further technical advantages of the present invention include an alignment spacer that aligns multiple optical fibers arranged in two dimensions. By tapering an alignment hole of the alignment spacer, an optical fiber may be accurately positioned in the alignment hole such that the longitudinal axis of the fiber core is aligned with the center of the tapered alignment hole. The fiber may be inserted in the alignment hole beyond the spacer until a proper fit is maintained. The extending portion of the fiber is then removed to facilitate mounting to an optical device. The alignment spacer and the aligned optical fibers mount to optical switches, lenses, other optical fibers, or any other suitable optical device. In one embodiment, the optical fiber is also tapered at one end to resist tipping in the tapered alignment hole and to create a stronger, more accurate fit between the optical fiber and the tapered alignment hole. In another embodiment, a bonding material (e.g., epoxy, glue, cement, adhesive) is disposed between the optical fiber and the tapered alignment hole to strengthen the fit between and maintain the position of the optical fiber in the tapered alignment hole.
Still further technical advantages of the present invention include an apparatus that mounts optical fibers to an optical device in a particular output displacement in response to the input angle of an optical signal and at a particular output angle in response to the input displacement of the optical signal. Mounting optical fibers in these positions and angles allows each fiber to capture substantially all of the illuminance of the corresponding optical signal as it exits the optical device. The apparatus further mounts an optical fiber to an optical device in a particular input displacement and at a particular input angle. The optical signal emitted by the optical fiber is characterized by an output angle in response to the input displacement of the optical fiber, and an output displacement in response to the input angle of the optical fiber. By controlling input displacement and input angle of the optical fiber mounted to the optical device, the output angle and output displacement of the emitted optical signal may be tuned.
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Baker & Botts L.L.P.
Optical Switch Corporation
Palmer Phan T. H.
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