Optical waveguides – With disengagable mechanical connector – Optical fiber to a nonfiber optical device connector
Reexamination Certificate
1998-11-09
2001-07-24
Font, Frank G. (Department: 2877)
Optical waveguides
With disengagable mechanical connector
Optical fiber to a nonfiber optical device connector
C385S092000, C385S093000, C385S033000
Reexamination Certificate
active
06264376
ABSTRACT:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates generally to optical coupling of light sources and light pipes; and more particularly concerns endwise optical coupling of LEDs to fiber optics light pipes in a simple and effective manner to maintain their coaxial relationship during light transmission from the LED to the light pipe, as will appear.
There is need for improvements in apparatus, and methods, to overcome difficulties in optical coupling as between light sources and light pipes; and there is need to improve light transmission between and by these elements.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
It is a major object of the invention to provide improvements in such optical coupling, as will meet the referenced need.
Basically, a light transmission device that will meet such need comprises, in combination:
a) a longitudinally axially extending light pipe having opposite ends,
b) one of said ends defining a recess for reception of light source structure that transmits light into the light pipe.
As will appear, the recess may typically be dished, and define a concavely curved inner wall via which light is transmitted into the light pipe. Further, the light source may typically have a portion thereof received into the recess whereby the recess defines a perimeter extending about the light source. The light source may be attached, as by surface mounting, to a printed circuit board, and the light pipe end recess typically defines a perimeter that projects toward said board, sidewardly of the light source which comprises an LED.
It is another object of the invention to provide light transmitting and diverging facets at the opposite end of the light pipe. The facets may extend in substantially circular arcs.
A further object includes provision of a support panel carrying the light pipe, in spaced relation to said recess. The faceted opposite end of the light pipe typically terminates proximate the panel, and a pipe flange engages one side of the panel. A grip ring may be provided for gripping the light pipe and engaging the opposite side of the panel.
The method of positioning a light pipe and light source, in accordance with the invention, includes the steps
a) providing a panel,
b) assembling the light pipe to the panel to project through an opening in the panel,
c) and assembling the light pipe and light source so that the light source projects into an end portion of the light pipe in spaced relation to the panel.
A recess is typically provided at an end of the light pipe, and the method includes assembling the light pipe and light source to receive a portion of the light source into said recess. That recess is typically formed to provide a concave inner wall that engages and centers the light source, such as an LED, in optically coupled relation to the light pipe.
These and other objects and advantages of the invention, as well as the details of an illustrative embodiment, will be more fully understood from the following specification and drawings, in which:
REFERENCES:
patent: 5495545 (1996-02-01), Cina et al.
patent: 5533159 (1996-07-01), Okochi et al.
patent: 5548676 (1996-08-01), Savage, Jr.
patent: 5818995 (1998-10-01), Savage, Jr.
Font Frank G.
Haefliger William W.
Mooney Michael P.
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