Optical waveguides – With optical coupler – Particular coupling structure
Reexamination Certificate
2001-09-20
2003-10-21
Kim, Robert H. (Department: 2882)
Optical waveguides
With optical coupler
Particular coupling structure
C385S045000, C385S048000, C385S049000, C385S088000
Reexamination Certificate
active
06636670
ABSTRACT:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to fiber optic devices, and more particularly to a detector for generating an electrical signal that is a function of the optical power in an optical fiber.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
In recent years, there has been a widespread and global deployment of fiber optic networks and systems. The ability to monitor and control the optical power within an optical fiber is important to the operation of such networks and systems.
The present invention provides an optical detector for generating an electrical signal that is a function of the optical power in an optical fiber.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a device for generating an electrical signal that is a function of the optical power in an optical fiber. The device is comprised of a support substrate, a fused, bi-conically-tapered splitter-coupler, and a glass bead securing an optical fiber extending from the splitter-coupler to the substrate. An opening in the glass bead forms a gap in the optical fiber. A light-sensitive device is disposed in the opening to receive light traveling through the optical fiber from the splitter-coupler.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a device for detecting optical power within an optical fiber and for generating an electrical signal that is a function of the optical power in an optical fiber.
It is another object of the present invention to provide a device as described above that is reliable and simple to manufacture.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a device as described above which utilizes a fused bi-conical coupler.
These and other objects will become apparent from the following description of a preferred embodiment taken together with the accompanying drawings and the appended claims.
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Caley Michael H
Gould Optronics, Inc.
Kim Robert H.
Shaw Pittman LLP
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