Structure Surrounding Optical Fiber Bundle-to-bundle Connection Patents (Class 385/54)
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Patent number: 7500789Abstract: A fibre optic coupler assembly for optically aligning a sectioned fibre optic cable, the cable having a first end and a second end and comprising one or more fibre optic cores. The assembly comprises a first holder for holding the first end; a second holder for holding the second end coupled to the first end; a retractor for retracting the second end; an aligning unit comprising a resilient construction having a conduit passing through it, for linear alignment of the ends; whereby the first and second ends are coupled by the respective holders and whereby the second end can be linearly aligned in the conduit of the aligning unit, retracted using the retractor, and rotated to obtain rotational alignment of the fiber cores of the ends.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 2003Date of Patent: March 10, 2009Assignee: BioScan Ltd.Inventors: Ilan Grunberg, Avram Matcovitch
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Publication number: 20090034910Abstract: In one embodiment, an assembly having a first board, a second board, a fiber bundle, and at least one movable stage is provided. The fiber bundle has a first end and a second end, and the first end of the fiber bundle is attached to the first board first face. The movable stage has a second optical array provided thereon or therein. The movable stage is disposed on the second board such that the at least one motor steers the movable stage. The movable stage is steered such that the second optical array is aligned with the second end of the fiber bundle in a desired manner.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 9, 2008Publication date: February 5, 2009Inventors: David Martin Fenwick, Richard John Luebs, Terrel L. Morris, Duane A. Wegher, Jeffrey D. Yetter
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Patent number: 7484897Abstract: There is provided an optical module for coupling with a fiber optic cable through an optical connector, including a module body connectable with a plug of the optical connector by a dedicated guide pin, with a side surface of the module body being opposed to a mating surface of the connector plug at which an end face of the fiber optic cable is exposed, and an optical element mounted to the module body and having an optical axis brought into alignment with an optical axis of the fiber optic cable upon fitting of the guide pin into the module body and the connector plug.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2007Date of Patent: February 3, 2009Assignee: NGK Spark Plug Co., Ltd.Inventors: Masaki Ono, Toshikatsu Takada, Toshifumi Kojima, Takeshi Ohno, Susumu Wakamatsu, Toshikazu Horio, Ayako Kawamura
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Publication number: 20090003771Abstract: An optical fiber connection system detects when proper connection is made between a fiber-optic cable and a bulkhead. A conductive strip on the fiber-optic cable contacts a first and second conductor on the bulkhead upon proper positioning of the bulkhead relative to the fiber-optic cable. The system includes indicators for displaying which of a plurality of termination points is properly terminated. In addition, the system includes alternative embodiments for turning off an energy source feeding the fiber-optic cable, in the event the fiber-optic cable becomes disconnected from the bulkhead.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 9, 2008Publication date: January 1, 2009Applicant: AT&T INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY I, L.P.Inventor: William Riha
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Publication number: 20080317410Abstract: Disclosed is a modified pre-ferrulized cable assembly that facilitates installation of an optical fiber communication cable through narrow cable guides having sharp bends. The pre-ferrulized cable assembly includes a communication cable having a free, front end, a semi-finished communication connector, and a suction plug. The invention further relates to efficient methods for installing the modified pre-ferrulized cable assembly through a cable guide.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 28, 2008Publication date: December 25, 2008Applicant: DRAKA COMTEQ B.V.Inventors: Willem Griffioen, Pieter Lock
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Patent number: 7461980Abstract: A transmitter optical sub-assembly receptacle includes a thicker split sleeve positioned within a cylindrical shell structure and partly within a base structure such that a fiber ferrule, which is positioned within the base structure, is partly within the thicker split sleeve. The split sleeve has a thickness larger than 0.187 millimeter.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 2005Date of Patent: December 9, 2008Assignee: Avago Technologies Fiber IP (Singapore) Pte. Ltd.Inventors: Meng Kwang Han, Hock Aun Neoh, Albert Wooi Quan Khor
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Patent number: 7463803Abstract: A substantially flat fiber optic drop cable assembly comprises: a fiber optic connector comprising a fiber optic ferrule and a housing; a crimp body coupled to the housing of the fiber optic connector; a fiber optic cable comprising a pair of strength members disposed partially within the fiber optic cable; a first sheath disposed between the fiber optic connector and the fiber optic cable, the first sheath coupled to the crimp body; a second sheath disposed between the fiber optic connector and the fiber optic cable, the second sheath coupled to the fiber optic cable; and a demarcation element joining the first sheath and the second sheath, wherein the demarcation element comprises a substantially tubular element; wherein the pair of strength members are configured to engage the crimp body about the first sheath, the second sheath, and the demarcation element.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 2006Date of Patent: December 9, 2008Assignee: Corning Cable Systems LLCInventors: Joseph T Cody, Radawan Hall, Christopher Paul Lewallen, James P. Luther
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Patent number: 7455460Abstract: A fiber optic connector having a double-clad specialty optical stub fiber with a deep index core-to-inner-cladding profile and a raised index outer-cladding profile. The double-clad optical stub fiber abuts against a single-clad field optical fiber of the single-mode type to form an interface across which the primary mode traverses without significantly interfering with higher-order modes. The ratio of the radius of the inner cladding to the radius of the core of the stub fiber is less than 6.5:1. The index profile of the refractive index of the inner cladding is deep relative to the refractive index of the core to confine the primary mode within the core. The raised refractive index of the outer-cladding pulls the higher-order modes deeper into that region, reducing interference with the primary mode. The respective core diameters of the field and stub fibers are matched to avoid mode-field diameter mismatch.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 2007Date of Patent: November 25, 2008Assignee: Panduit Corp.Inventors: Richard J. Pimpinella, Albert Brunsting
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Patent number: 7457492Abstract: A multichannel optical communication module includes: a board, and a signal-converting element having optical-action points aligned with a first pitch to emit and receive signal light. The element performs conversion between an optical signal and an electric signal at each of the optical-action points. The module further includes an optical waveguide that includes optical waveguide cores each having a first and a second optical-signal ends that are opposed to each other. The first optical-signal ends are aligned with the first pitch and optically connected to the respective optical-action points, while the second optical-signal ends are aligned with a second pitch longer than the first pitch. The module further includes a coupling component fixed on the board and coupling, to the module, an optical connector that holds ends of optical fibers aligned with a pitch equal to the second pitch, thereby optically connecting the second optical-signal ends to the optical fibers.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 2006Date of Patent: November 25, 2008Assignee: Fuji Xerox Co., Ltd.Inventor: Tomoki Umezawa
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Publication number: 20080253717Abstract: A hermaphroditic connector for mounting to a cable having a plurality of optical fibers and connecting the fibers to mating optical fibers wherein the optical fibers and mating optical fibers have termini mounted to the respective ends thereof, and wherein the termini of at least one of the optical fibers is slidably mounted and biased to provide a predetermined amount of longitudinal travel during connection includes a plug insert for mounting the termini, a generally cylindrical plug body for receiving the plug insert through an open end thereof, the plug body including a mating end with a plurality of mating features configured to cooperate with corresponding mating features of a second connector to align the termini of the first and second connectors in opposed relationship, a plurality of ears extending radially from the mating end of the plug body, a coupling nut slidably mounted on the plug including a groove formed between a plurality of ribs extending around an inside nut so that rotation of the coupType: ApplicationFiled: April 12, 2007Publication date: October 16, 2008Applicant: FIBER SYSTEMS INTERNATIONAL d/b/a AMPHENOL FIBER SYSTEMS INTERNATIONALInventors: BRYAN D. CULL, JON M. WOODRUFF, JAIME CASTILLEGA
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Patent number: 7435010Abstract: Disclosed is a method of forming an optical monitoring or transmitting light guide and a resulting apparatus that begins by bonding a bundle of optical fibers together using an epoxy and polishing the distal end of the bundle of optical fibers to create an optical aperture. The ratio of fiber size to binder particulate size of the epoxy used in the bonding process is sufficient to maintain the integrity of the bundle of optical fibers during the polishing of the distal end. The method positions the bundle of optical fibers into a protective sheath and a connector. The coefficient of thermal expansion of the epoxy used in the bonding process matches that of the connector. Once assembled, the invention positions the connector through the opening in the surface of a device, such that the distal end of the bundle of optical fibers is either recessed in, substantially flush with, or extends from the surface of the device through which the connector extends, depending on field-of-view requirements.Type: GrantFiled: January 3, 2007Date of Patent: October 14, 2008Assignee: The Johns Hopkins UniversityInventors: Leo R. Gauthier, Jr., James E. McDonald, Louis A. Mattes
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Patent number: 7435009Abstract: An optical fiber connection system detects when proper connection is made between a fiber-optic cable and a bulkhead. A conductive strip on the fiber-optic cable contacts a first and second conductor on the bulkhead upon proper positioning of the bulkhead relative to the fiber-optic cable. The system includes indicators for displaying which of a plurality of termination points is properly terminated. In addition, the system includes alternative embodiments for turning off an energy source feeding the fiber-optic cable, in the event the fiber-optic cable becomes disconnected from the bulkhead.Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 2007Date of Patent: October 14, 2008Assignee: AT&T Intellectual Property I, L.P.Inventor: William Riha
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Patent number: 7431513Abstract: An adjustable focus connector with spring action is especially adapted for use with common FC or SAM fiber optic receptacles. The connector includes a ferrule holder which mounts a fiber-carrying ferrule at a distal end thereof. At its proximal end the ferrule holder is threadedly connected to a lead screw member. A thrust collar surrounds the ferrule holder and traps a compression spring in the cavity between the thrust collar and the ferrule holder. Because of appropriate interengagement between the components the ferrule holder cannot rotate relative to the trust collar. A traveler is threadedly connected to the lead screw and abuts against the thrust collar. A connection nut is provided at the distal end of the connector to connect it to the fiber optic receptacle. The spring action of the connector prevents damage to the fiber end during connection of the connector to the fiber optic receptacle.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 2007Date of Patent: October 7, 2008Assignee: Oz Optics Ltd.Inventors: Omur M. Sezerman, Garland Best, Thoba Nguyen, Steven Keeler
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Patent number: 7419308Abstract: A method of fabrication of a fiber bundle termination with reduced fiber-to-fiber pitch which includes reducing the outside diameter of fibers in the fiber bundle by etching and provides means for preventing breakage of the etched fibers during etching and assembly. A high yield fabrication and assembly process is described.Type: GrantFiled: September 15, 2006Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventor: Jian Ma
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Publication number: 20080193086Abstract: An adapter for holding two multi-fiber ferrules in positions to mate with one another includes a main body, a opening extending through the main body configured to receive and optically and mechanically mate the two multi-fiber ferrules. Engagement members, which preferably rotate about an axis transverse to the opening, is disposed adjacent the opening on each side of the adapter to engage and hold the multi-fiber ferrules in the adapter.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 9, 2007Publication date: August 14, 2008Applicant: US CONEC LTDInventors: Joseph P. Howard, Darrell R. Childers, Russell J. Granger, Myron W. Yount
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Patent number: 7346254Abstract: A telecommunications assembly including a housing and a plurality of modules mounted within the housing. The modules includes a rear face in which is mounted at least one fiber optic connector. Within an interior of the housing are positioned at least one fiber optic adapters. Inserting the module through a front opening of the housing at a mounting location positions the connector of the module for insertion into and mating with the adapter of the housing. The adapters within the interior of the housing are integrally formed as part of a removable adapter assembly. A method of mounting a telecommunications module within a chassis. The modules include a connector mounting bulkhead which is moveable relative to the module to allow connector access.Type: GrantFiled: August 29, 2005Date of Patent: March 18, 2008Assignee: ADC Telecommunications, Inc.Inventors: Anne Kramer, Ponharith Nhep
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Patent number: 7344314Abstract: An optical fibre installation includes (i) a part defining an inlet for optical fibres that has a through-hole for the passage of optical fibres and an associated mating region for a push-fit connector, (ii) an optical fibre cable connected to an adapter that defines a connection region having a predetermined cross-section for mating with a push-fit connector and (iii) a push-fit connector having a first end, a second end, a through-passage extending between those ends and a seal associated with the first end. The second end of the push-fit connector is push-fit connected to the connection region of the adapter and the first end of the push-fit connector is push-fit connected with the mating region of the inlets in such a way that the seal sealingly engages the inlet defining part. The arrangement is such that optical fibres from the optical fibre cable can be directed through the push-fit connector and the through-hold of the inlet.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2007Date of Patent: March 18, 2008Assignee: Prysmian Cables & Systems LimitedInventors: John Kerry, Roger John Pike, Ralph Sutehall
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Patent number: 7345312Abstract: A solid-state light source includes a semiconductor light source for emitting light and an optical system having a fiber optic element. The fiber optic element has an input for receiving emitted light from the semiconductor light source. The fiber optic element also has an output for emitting light received from the solid-state light source. The semiconductor light source and the fiber optic element in aggregate form an illumination path.Type: GrantFiled: June 1, 2005Date of Patent: March 18, 2008Assignee: Smith & Nephew, Inc.Inventor: Yuri Kazakevich
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Patent number: 7330546Abstract: A multimedia patching box including a generally rectangular housing. The housing includes a first wall positioned opposite from a second wall. The housing also includes opposing third and fourth walls that extend between the first and second walls. A panel is mounted adjacent the front of the housing. The panel is mounted to pivot about a pivot axis between an open position and a closed position. The pivot axis is located adjacent to the third wall of the housing and extends generally along the third wall of the housing. A plurality of multimedia connectors are mounted on the panel. The housing defines at least one cable access opening defined through at least one of the first and second walls at a location adjacent the third wall. A cable management structure is connected to the back side of the panel. The cable management structure defines a cable guiding channel that extends generally along the pivot axis of the panel and generally aligns with the at least one cable access opening.Type: GrantFiled: August 24, 2004Date of Patent: February 12, 2008Assignee: ADC Telecommunications, Inc.Inventors: Bradley Scott Kessler, Jeffrey Scott Hartzler, Cory Lee Grabinger
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Patent number: 7325979Abstract: Disclosed is a method for removably connecting two groups of individual, parallel fibers that are delimited by end faces that are perpendicular to the fiber axis. The two groups of fibers are moved towards each other in an axial direction until each of the fibers abuts against the end face of the assigned fiber from the other group. The fibers of the two groups are aligned in pairs relative to each other before being moved into contact with each other, and any differences in fiber lengths is compensated for by elastically deforming the fiber along the fiber main axis. This method eliminates the disadvantages associated with bending the fibers because length variations are essentially compensated for by axially compressing the fibers.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2006Date of Patent: February 5, 2008Assignee: Huber + Suhner AGInventors: Thomas Ammer, Uhland Goebel, Martin Strasser, Falk Draheim, Peter Nuechter, Carlo Compare
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Patent number: 7325975Abstract: An optical module has a lever for bending a spring plate possessed by a cage for accommodating a case of the optical module in a direction in which a retaining hole formed through the spring plate comes off a latch formed on the case. The lever has a shaft pivotably supported on the case, a tongue disposed on one side of the shaft, and an actuator disposed on the opposite side of the shaft with respect to the tongue. The lever pivotally moves about the shaft in response to a movement of the tongue toward the case, causing the actuator to press the spring plate to bend in the foregoing direction. A user can readily release the latch by moving the tongue toward the case, and withdraw the optical module from the cage through a simple manipulation of pulling the case out while holding the case and tongue together.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2004Date of Patent: February 5, 2008Assignee: NEC CorporationInventors: Yasushi Yamada, Masayuki Nakano
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Patent number: 7273320Abstract: A cleaning tool for cleaning particulate matter from contact surfaces of fiber-optics ferrules of an electronics assembly has one or more first connector halves for engaging one or more second connector halves hosting the ferrules to be cleaned, and one or more cleaning inserts provided within the one or more first connector halves, the cleaning inserts comprising adherent surfaces for removing particulates from engaged surfaces. The tool is characterized in that the one or more cleaning inserts are sized to contact the contact surfaces of the fiber optics ferrules with the first connector half engaged in the second connector half.Type: GrantFiled: April 23, 2002Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Assignee: Pluris, Inc.Inventors: Francis Clay Ellis, Sam Novinsky
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Patent number: 7246949Abstract: The invention relates to a device for transmitting optical signals between at least two components disposed for rotation. The invention excels itself by the provision that at least one micro-optical component is used for beam forming or beam guidance.Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 2001Date of Patent: July 24, 2007Assignee: Schleifring und Apparatebau GmbHInventors: Hans Thiele, Hans Poisel
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Patent number: 7237966Abstract: According to certain aspects of the present invention, an optical cable assembly is disclosed having a plurality of optical fibers, each having a first end and a second end. The plurality of optical fibers includes a first group of optical fibers and a second group of optical fibers. A first connector head is attached to the first end of the first group of optical fibers. The first group of optical fibers terminates in an array at a surface disposed on the first connector head. The first connector head includes a first mating structure. A second connector head is attached to the first end of the second group of optical fibers. The second group of optical fibers terminates in an array at a surface disposed on the second connector head.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 2004Date of Patent: July 3, 2007Assignee: Corning Cable Systems LLCInventors: Eric S. Quinby, Eric J. Leichter
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Patent number: 7217958Abstract: Includes a stem with a hole, a dielectric sealed into the hole of the stem and including a pair of pin insertion holes, and a pair of high frequency signal pins that penetrate and fit into the pair of pin insertion holes of the dielectric, and constituting differential lines connected to an optical semiconductor element.Type: GrantFiled: October 4, 2006Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Assignee: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Hiroshi Aruga, Shinichi Takagi, Kiyohide Sakai
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Patent number: 7207727Abstract: A one-piece fiber optic receptacle is provided for aligning and optically connecting a plug ferrule with a back-side ferrule of like configuration. The fiber optic receptacle includes a receptacle housing defining an internal cavity opening through an external end and an opposed internal end, an alignment sleeve disposed within the internal cavity and received within the internal end of the receptacle housing, and a sleeve retainer removably secured to the internal end of the receptacle housing and operable for providing access to the alignment sleeve from the internal end of the receptacle housing. The fiber optic receptacle further includes biasing member supports that facilitate loading and ensure alignment of at least one biasing member during assembly and use. Tapered posts may be provided on at least one of the alignment sleeve and the sleeve retainer for retaining and guiding the at least one biasing member during assembly and use.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 2004Date of Patent: April 24, 2007Assignee: Corning Cable Systems LLCInventors: Hieu V. Tran, James P. Luther, Xin Liu, Thomas Theuerkorn, Charles A. Yow, Jr.
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Patent number: 7177509Abstract: The present invention discloses an image display apparatus using optical fiber in which moving images projected from a projector can be transferred to a screen through an optical fiber bundle with a high-definition image quality. An object of the present invention is to improve message transfer effect of various information pieces such as advertisement, by employing a connector which can selectively control a magnification of an image to be displayed while decreasing the sizes of a condensing member or a liquid crystal panel.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 2003Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Inventor: Jung Chan Ko
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Patent number: 7156559Abstract: Disclosed is a method of forming an optical monitoring or transmitting light guide and a resulting apparatus that begins by bonding a bundle of optical fibers together using an epoxy and polishing the distal end of the bundle of optical fibers to create an optical aperture. The ratio of fiber size to binder particulate size of the epoxy used in the bonding process is sufficient to maintain the integrity of the bundle of optical fibers during the polishing of the distal end. The method positions the bundle of optical fibers into a protective sheath and a connector. The coefficient of thermal expansion of the epoxy used in the bonding process matches that of the connector. Once assembled, the invention positions the connector through the opening in the surface of a device, such that the distal end of the bundle of optical fibers is either recessed in, substantially flush with, or extends from the surface of the device through which the connector extends, depending on field-of-view requirements.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2004Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: The Johns Hopkins UniversityInventors: Leo R. Gauthier, Jr., Louis A. Mattes, James E. McDonald
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Patent number: 7149399Abstract: In accordance with the present invention a fiber optic array is provided. The array includes a substrate having a fiber support surface. The array further includes an optical fiber having a fiber portion that includes an un-jacketed, un-buffered optical core segment. The un-jacketed, un-buffered optical core segment is placed in contact with the fiber support surface to orient the optical core segment at a selected position relative to the support surface. In addition, the array includes a solder glass chemically bonded to the optical core segment and the fiber support surface so that the optical core segment is secured at a predetermined location relative to the support surface of the substrate. A method for fabricating such a fiber optic array is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: September 9, 2002Date of Patent: December 12, 2006Assignee: Rohm and Haas Electronic Materials LLCInventors: Martin G. Meder, William Stacy, Mindaugas F. Dautartas, Dan A. Steinberg
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Patent number: 7130522Abstract: A method is provided for making ferrules for connecting optical fibers to other optical fibers or to an optical input device such as an optical chip. The method utilizes ceramic greensheets or silicon wafers. In one method, the greensheets are stacked and laminated and then fiber optic through openings are provided in the laminate for holding the fibers. The laminate is then sintered forming the ferrule.Type: GrantFiled: January 13, 2004Date of Patent: October 31, 2006Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: John U Knickerbocker, How T Lin
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Patent number: 7118285Abstract: In one embodiment, fiber assemblies are provided. The fiber assemblies may have a first fiber and a second fiber. The first fiber may have at least one core having a length and first and second ends. The second end may have a first connector. The second fiber may have at least one core having a length and first and second ends. The second end may have a second connector having at least one magnet. The first connector may be engaged to the second connector, and the at least one magnet may be operated to engage the first connector to the second connector.Type: GrantFiled: November 3, 2004Date of Patent: October 10, 2006Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.Inventors: David Martin Fenwick, Richard John Luebs, Terrel L. Morris, Duane A. Wegher, Jeffrey D. Yetter
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Patent number: 7059778Abstract: An optical fiber bundle includes a plurality of optical fibers bundled on an input terminal side and on an output terminal side. The optical fiber bundle receives light from the input terminal side, and outputs the light to the output terminal side. The optical fiber bundle has a feature in that the optical fiber are divided, on the input terminal side, individually or into a plurality of groups in accordance with output terminal side positions of the optical fiber. The optical fiber bundle is arranged to adjust input light for each of the optical fibers or for each of the groups.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 2003Date of Patent: June 13, 2006Assignee: Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd.Inventors: Toshimi Suzuki, Souichi Endo, Yasuhiko Shishido
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Patent number: 7050692Abstract: A coupler for interfacing a light source, such as a laser, and a fiber optic cable is disclosed. The coupler includes a slide mount having a channel that is adapted to receive optical fibers. The channel extends from a proximal end of the slide mount to a distal end of the slide mount. The proximal end of the slide mount is adapted to fit into an aperture of the light source and the distal end of the slide mount is adapted to transmit light to the fiber optic cable. The coupler also includes a clamp that is mounted on the slide mount adjacent to its proximal end. The clamp covers at least a portion of the channel, thereby securing the optical fibers within the channel without the use of an adhesive.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 2002Date of Patent: May 23, 2006Assignee: The Spectranetics CorporationInventors: Kenneth D. Harlan, Kenneth P. Grace, Robert Carver, Michael Sean Coe
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Patent number: 7048446Abstract: In the connector of the present invention two impact mounted seven optical fiber ferrules are aligned through the alignment of the central optical fiber and the alignment of at least one of the outer optical fibers in the ferrules. Due to the symmetrical, repeatable orientation of the optical fibers in the ferrule, all of the remaining optical fibers will automatically be aligned when the central optical fiber and one of the outer optical fibers are aligned, thus greatly simplifying the alignment process for the plurality of optical fibers within the connector of the present invention. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention each of the seven optical fibers is color coded. The optical fibers within the transmitting and receiving optical fiber bundles are arranged in a mirror image orientation, such that light signals transmitted on a particular colored optical fiber is received within a similarly colored optical fiber.Type: GrantFiled: February 18, 2004Date of Patent: May 23, 2006Assignee: Valdor Fiber Optics, Inc.Inventors: Michel Y. Rondeau, Israel M. Miranda, Alpha F. Diallo
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Patent number: 7044650Abstract: A one-piece fiber optic receptacle is provided for aligning and optically connecting a plug ferrule with a back-side ferrule of like configuration. The fiber optic receptacle includes a receptacle housing defining an internal cavity opening through an external end and an opposed internal end, an alignment sleeve disposed within the internal cavity and received within the internal end of the receptacle housing, and a sleeve retainer secured to the internal end of the receptacle housing and operable for providing access to the alignment sleeve from the internal end of the receptacle housing. The alignment sleeve includes a chamfer for guiding the back-side ferrule into the alignment sleeve. The sleeve retainer has an opening and a plurality of alignment ribs disposed about the opening for permitting angular rotation of the alignment sleeve relative to the sleeve retainer during insertion of the plug ferrule and the back-side ferrule into the alignment sleeve.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 2004Date of Patent: May 16, 2006Assignee: Corning Cable Systems LLCInventors: Hieu V. Tran, Xin Liu, James P. Luther, Thomas Theuerkorn, Charles A. Yow, Jr.
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Patent number: 7042369Abstract: A traffic monitoring system comprises at least one sensor station (2) and an interferometric interrogation system (9); wherein the at least one sensor station (2) comprises at least one optical fiber sensor (5) deployed in a highway (1); and wherein the interferometric interrogation system (9) is adapted to respond to an optical phase shift produced in the at least one optical fiber sensor (5) due to a force applied by a vehicle passing the at least one sensor station (2).Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2002Date of Patent: May 9, 2006Assignee: QinetiQ LimitedInventors: David J Hill, Philip J Nash
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Patent number: 7001079Abstract: An optical connector system comprising a connector for interconnection to a mating component, the first connector defining a non-mated state when not connected to the mating component, and a mated state when connected to the mating component, the connector having a front and rear orientation and comprises at least a first inner housing containing at least one fiber biased forward therein and having at least one first latching member; and a first outer housing containing at least a portion of the first inner housing, the first inner housing being slidably mounted in the first outer housing, wherein the mating component comprises at least at least one second latching member for interengaging with the first latching member and, when the first connector and the mating component are in the mated state, the forwardly-biased fiber is urged into the mating component while the inner housing is held secure by the first and second latching members.Type: GrantFiled: April 4, 2003Date of Patent: February 21, 2006Assignee: The Whitaker CorporationInventor: Henricus Jozef Vergeest
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Patent number: 6994478Abstract: Rotate-and-pull mechanisms for fiber optic modules. The rotate-and-pull mechanisms have a lever-actuator to unlatch and withdraw a fiber optic module from a cage assembly or a module receptacle. The lever-actuator pivotally couples to the fiber optic module so that when lever-actuator is rotated about its pivot point, the lever-actuator causes the second actuator to release the fiber optic module from the cage assembly. The lever-actuator includes an actuating-tab to cause the second actuator to move when the lever-actuator is rotated. By pulling the lever-actuator away from the cage assembly, the fiber optic module is withdrawn from the cage assembly. A belly-to-belly mounting configuration is introduced for the rotate-and-pull release fiber optic modules.Type: GrantFiled: August 5, 2003Date of Patent: February 7, 2006Assignee: JDS Uniphase CorporationInventors: Liew C. Chiu, Ron C. Pang, Yong P. Sim, Kee S. Tan, Tat T. Ming
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Patent number: 6986608Abstract: Fiber optic connections are accomplished with passive alignment using a modular approach. An improved waveguide substrate has precisely aligned waveguides secured in place, including at an inlet channel, an outlet channel, or both. The waveguides need not extend beyond the face of the inlet or outlet location, and there is no need to have any unsupported fiber optic fibers connect to the waveguide substrate. When provided, a connector module or modules have fiber optic fibers having supported ends which precisely align with the waveguides of the waveguide substrate. Connecting pins typically are provided to insure alignment between waveguides and fibers is easily attained.Type: GrantFiled: January 16, 2001Date of Patent: January 17, 2006Assignee: Molex IncorporatedInventors: Masum Choudhury, Anthony L. Moretti
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Patent number: 6973242Abstract: The invention provides an apparatus for guiding at least one fiber optic ribbons into a ferule. The ferrule has front and rear faces, a longitudinal axis and at least one guide pin channel disposed parallel to the longitudinal axis. The apparatus comprises: (a) a cover; and (b) a base having first and second surfaces and comprising (i) a channel spanning from the first to the second surface, the channel being defined by a Cartesian coordinate system x, y, and z and having an x-dimension that coincides with the width of the fiber optic ribbon, and (ii) means for aligning said apparatus with said ferrule. When the cover is disposed on the base, a pocket is formed between the cover and the base. The height of the pocket coincides with the cumulative thickness of the number of fiber optic ribbons used.Type: GrantFiled: April 17, 2003Date of Patent: December 6, 2005Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties CompanyInventors: Lizhang Yang, Edward B. Lurie
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Patent number: 6964523Abstract: An optical switch is provided with an optical-fiber-arraying-member 1 in which a plurality of optical fiber fixing grooves 1a extending along radial directions of a virtual circle are radially formed in a predetermined surface of a base material, a plurality of array-side optical fibers 2 arrayed in the plurality of optical fiber fixing grooves 1a of the optical-fiber-arraying-member 1, and a moving-side optical fiber 4 to be selectively optically connected to either of the plurality of array-side optical fibers 2; the moving-side optical fiber 4 and the optical-fiber-arraying-member 1 are rotated relative to each other about a center axis 1o of the virtual circle, and the moving-side optical fiber 4 is selectively optically connected to the array-side optical fiber 2 selected.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 2003Date of Patent: November 15, 2005Assignee: Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd.Inventors: Hiroshi Kohda, Kazuhito Saito, Takeo Komiya
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Patent number: 6921212Abstract: A modular and adjustable backplane assembly for providing a fiber-optics backplane interface to a plurality of router cards functioning as a data router is provided. The assembly includes a first portion having a first array of connectors for interfacing with a compatible array of second connectors engaging specific ones of the router cards, and a second portion having a second array of connectors for interfacing with a compatible array of second connectors engaging specific others of the router cards. The mechanics of the assembly enable a moveable attachment with respect to the first and second portions such that they may be positionally adjusted during mounting, and wherein external data paths are provided from individual ones of the connectors to individual others of the connectors by fiber-optic conductors.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 2004Date of Patent: July 26, 2005Assignee: Pluris, Inc.Inventor: Peter John Dovle
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Patent number: 6886989Abstract: A device and method for aligning a fiber optic bundle with an array waveguide uses pins that partially extend into both the fiber optic bundle and the array waveguide to achieve course alignment. In one embodiment, the pins are inserted into holes formed by V-grooves in the fiber optic bundle. Finely aligning the fiber optic bundle and the array waveguide may be done by manual adjustment.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 2000Date of Patent: May 3, 2005Assignee: Intel CorporationInventor: Douglas E. Crafts
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Patent number: 6883978Abstract: A fiber-coupled optical component package comprises a high thermal conductivity base, a housing including a ceramic substrate, an optical component mount aperture formed on the substrate and a substantially planar fiber mount region on the substrate adjacent to the optical component mount aperture. An optical component may be secured within an area defined by the optical component mount aperture and an optical fiber may be secured to the substantially planar fiber mount region to optically couple the fiber and the optical component. A package lid may be placed over one or more of the housing, the optical component, and a portion of the fiber.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 2003Date of Patent: April 26, 2005Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.Inventor: Michael Powers
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Patent number: 6885800Abstract: A method is provided for cross-connecting individual optical fibers of a plurality of fiber optic ribbons and includes the steps of providing first and second substrates having adhesive thereon. Individual optical fibers are routed on the substrates to form at least portions of fiber optic input ribbons and fiber optic output ribbons, with the fibers extending beyond the substrates to define input and output tails. One substrate is positioned on top of another substrate, and a ribbonizing apparatus is used to gather the input and output tails in ribbon form whereupon they can be coated to hold the tails in their ribbon form.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2004Date of Patent: April 26, 2005Assignee: Molex IncorporatedInventors: Maurice X. Sun, Sammy Ali, Igor Grois
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Publication number: 20040247249Abstract: Disclosed is a method of forming an optical monitoring or transmitting light guide and a resulting apparatus that begins by bonding a bundle of optical fibers together using an epoxy and polishing the distal end of the bundle of optical fibers to create an optical aperture. The ratio of fiber size to binder particulate size of the epoxy used in the bonding process is sufficient to maintain the integrity of the bundle of optical fibers during the polishing of the distal end. The method positions the bundle of optical fibers into a protective sheath and a connector. The coefficient of thermal expansion of the epoxy used in the bonding process matches that of the connector. Once assembled, the invention positions the connector through the opening in the surface of a device, such that the distal end of the bundle of optical fibers is either recessed in, substantially flush with, or extends from the surface of the device through which the connector extends, depending on field-of-view requirements.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 21, 2004Publication date: December 9, 2004Inventors: Leo R. Gauthier, Louis A. Mattes, James E. McDonald
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Patent number: 6817777Abstract: The invention provides an array ferrule for use in an optical array connector wherein a main body is profiled to have a fiber receiving cavity extending from a mating face to a rear end between a pair of side surfaces. At least one pin slot is precisely located with respect to the fiber receiving cavity and extends inward from a respective side surface. A plurality of channel plates are formed from the same tool to have a plurality of fiber receiving channels in at least one major surface thereof. Fibers are each positioned within respective fiber receiving channels of the channel plates and located within the fiber receiving cavity to form the array ferrule.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 2003Date of Patent: November 16, 2004Inventor: Dimitry Grabbe
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Publication number: 20040184739Abstract: In the connector of the present invention two impact mounted seven optical fiber ferrules are aligned through the alignment of the central optical fiber and the alignment of at least one of the outer optical fibers in the ferrules. Due to the symmetrical, repeatable orientation of the optical fibers in the ferrule, all of the remaining optical fibers will automatically be aligned when the central optical fiber and one of the outer optical fibers are aligned, thus greatly simplifying the alignment process for the plurality of optical fibers within the connector of the present invention. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention each of the seven optical fibers is color coded. The optical fibers within the transmitting and receiving optical fiber bundles are arranged in a mirror image orientation, such that light signals transmitted on a particular colored optical fiber is received within a similarly colored optical fiber.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 18, 2004Publication date: September 23, 2004Inventors: Michel Y. Rondeau, Israel M. Miranda, Alpha F. Diallo
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Patent number: 6793401Abstract: A system and method are provided for assembling of a bundle of conductors into a connector that defines a plurality of cavities for receiving the conductors. The system includes an apparatus that has a plurality of mating connectors that each include a plurality of cavities. The connector is capable of being removably coupled to one of the mating connectors such that the cavities of the mating connector are optically coupled with the cavities of the connector. The apparatus also includes a plurality of light emitting elements optically coupled to the cavities of the mating connectors. The light emitting elements can therefore selectively illuminate the cavities of the mating connectors. The system also includes a processing element capable of controlling operation of the light emitting elements. Also, the processing element includes a display capable of indicating the at least one cavity being illuminated.Type: GrantFiled: August 22, 2002Date of Patent: September 21, 2004Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventor: Jose Daniel
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Publication number: 20040165831Abstract: To suppress the occurrence of a failure caused by static electricity in the manufacturing process of an active matrix type display device in which an active matrix circuit and peripheral drive circuits are integrated on a glass substrate, a protective capacitor to be connected to a short ring is formed using a semiconductor layer made from the same material as the active layer of a thin film transistor present under the short ring. This protective capacitor has a function to absorb an electric pulse generated in the plasma using process. Discharge patterns are provided to prevent an electric pulse from affecting each circuit.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 4, 2003Publication date: August 26, 2004Applicant: Semiconductor Energy Laboratory Co., Ltd. a Japan CorporationInventors: Hongyong Zhang, Satoshi Teramoto