Optical waveguides – With optical coupler – Particular coupling structure
Patent
1997-11-13
2000-03-07
Ngo, Hung N.
Optical waveguides
With optical coupler
Particular coupling structure
385 34, 385131, 385132, G02B 630
Patent
active
060350849
ABSTRACT:
A fiber optic connector for establishing an optical connection with an optical fiber embedded within a composite structure is provided. The fiber optic connector includes a first lens element, such as a metal sheathed graded index (GRIN) lens, that is attached to the portion of the edge surface of the composite structure to which the optical fiber extends. The fiber optic connector also includes an alignment tube and a second optical fiber, external to the composite structure, having an end portion disposed within one end of the alignment tube. By sliding the other end of the alignment tube over the first lens element, optical communication is established between the first optical fiber embedded within the composite structure and the second optical fiber external to the composite structure. The fiber optic connector also typically includes a ferrule mounted upon the end portion of the second optical fiber and inserted at least partially into one end of the alignment tube. In order to effectively couple the optical signals between the embedded optical fiber and the external optical fiber, the fiber optic connector also generally includes a second lens element, such as a second GRIN lens, disposed within a medial portion of the alignment tube for collimating the optical signals.
REFERENCES:
patent: 4632505 (1986-12-01), Allsworth
patent: 5793916 (1998-08-01), Dahringer et al.
Thomas et al., Manufacturing of Smart Structures Using Fiber Placement Manufacturing Process, SPIE, vol. 2447, Mar. 1995 pp. 266-273.
NSG America, Inc., Selfoc Product Guide, NSG America, Inc., Spring 1993.
Dunne James P
Haake John M.
Jacobs Jack H.
Schuette Keith C.
Thomas Matthew M.
McDonell Douglas Corporation
Ngo Hung N.
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