Tube-type Holding Structure Patents (Class 385/66)
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Patent number: 6169160Abstract: Substrates that are moisture-sensitive and/or corrosion-sensitive, such as electrical components found in fiber optic cables, copper wires, terminal blocks, connections and junctions, are protected from moisture and/or corrosion with a protectant composition that includes a polyamide gelling agent, a gelled solvent, and optionally a bleeding agent. The electrical components are typically contacted with the protective composition to protect the sensitive component from moisture and/or corrosion.Type: GrantFiled: January 4, 1999Date of Patent: January 2, 2001Assignee: Union Camp CorporationInventors: Richard C. MacQueen, Marc Jackson, Mark S. Pavlin
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Patent number: 6095694Abstract: Apparatus for frictionally engaging and supporting a cylindrical, fiber optic component such as an axial ferrule is provided with the capability of releasably locking the component in the apparatus, thereby permitting coupling of the component for extended periods of time without degradation of light transmission. The apparatus includes a cylindrical, split spring bushing positioned in a cavity defined by a two-part housing and a set screw in a threaded bore extending radially through overlapped portions of both housing parts. The screw is advanced into contact with the bushing to apply inwardly radial pressure thereto, increasing the frictional engagement of the bushing with the component to essentially lock the component in the apparatus. In a preferred method of fabrication and use of the apparatus, the two housing parts are placed in fully assembled condition, without the bushing, and a radial bore is formed through the overlapped portions.Type: GrantFiled: May 11, 1998Date of Patent: August 1, 2000Assignee: Nuvisions International, Inc.Inventors: Paul Chudoba, Jerome Polizzi
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Patent number: 6069992Abstract: A system includes mateable connectors (12, 14) with mateable optic fiber termini, which provides for precision alignment of the termini and which facilitates installation of an insert whose front end must be of rectangular shape. Two mating sets of optic fiber termini (30, 32) are precisely aligned by a pair of pin-receiving alignment holes (44, 46) in one connector and a pair of pins (40, 42) projecting from the other connector, wherein a first (40) of the alignment pins is precisely cylindrical and fits closely in the first hole, and a second (42) of the pins is also precisely cylindrical but fits into a hole (46) that is elongated in a direction toward and away from the first hole. A front portion (110) of an insert is of largely rectangular cross-section, while the rear portion (112) of the insert is of largely circular cross-section to enable retention by a circular retainer clip (120) and to provide threads (122) for threading into a backshell.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 1997Date of Patent: May 30, 2000Assignee: ITT Manufacturing Enterprises, Inc.Inventor: Peter Joseph Hyzin
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Patent number: 5940561Abstract: An adapter assembly is provided for removably receiving two optical fiber ferrules of the type with open grooves extending longitudinally rearward of the end face of the ferrule. The assembly comprises a sleeve with an interior surface that defines a passageway therethrough sized for receiving the ends of the ferrules therein. The interior surface also defines two longitudinal grooves opposite each other that open to the passageway. A guide pin is located in each groove such that an exposed portion of the outer surface of the guide pin along the entire length of the guide pin inside the sleeve is exposed to the passageway. The exposed portion are sized and located relative to each other to slide in the ferrule grooves and operatively align the end faces of the ferrules rotationally and laterally relative to each other when the two ferrules are inserted into the sleeve.Type: GrantFiled: April 23, 1997Date of Patent: August 17, 1999Assignee: Siecor CorporationInventors: David L. Dean, Jr., Karl M. Wagner, James P. Luther, Markus A. Giebel
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Patent number: 5937121Abstract: Adapters for coupling optical fiber. A first adapter includes ports for receiving optical fiber fitted with a first interface connector. The adapter includes first interface ports mounted to a block. The block has an outer dimension corresponding to a panel cut-out for a second interface adapter. Mounting clips may be preformed in the block. A second adapter includes a duplex retention latch including a first retention latch for receiving and gripping a first optical fiber connector and a second retention latch for receiving and gripping a second optical fiber connector. The first and second retention latches are joined by a connecting member integral with the first retention latch and the second retention latch. A third embodiment includes mounting clips that extend through openings formed in the adapter body.Type: GrantFiled: January 3, 1997Date of Patent: August 10, 1999Assignee: The Siemon CompanyInventors: Conrad L. Ott, Edward Volansky
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Patent number: 5915055Abstract: A method for connectorizing fiber optic cables includes arranging a plurality of connectorized optical fiber jumpers having first and second opposed ends, such that the first end of each jumper is in parallel alignment with respect to the first end of each other jumper. Each of the second ends of the jumpers have a fiber optic connector disposed thereon. The first ends of the jumpers are then spliced onto a corresponding plurality of first ends of optical fibers of a fiber optic cable. Each of the first ends of the optical fibers of the fiber optic cable are also arranged in parallel alignment with respect to each other optical fiber so that the first ends of the optical fiber jumpers are axially aligned in an end-to-end relationship with the corresponding first ends of the optical fibers of the fiber optic cable. A jumper insert which has a tapered channel and a jumper seat which has a plurality of lengthwise extending bores which are provided to assist in arranging the jumpers in parallel alignment.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 1997Date of Patent: June 22, 1999Assignee: Siecor CorporationInventors: Alan Wayne Bennett, Michael J. Ott
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Patent number: 5815617Abstract: The invention provides a fiber optic cable connector consisting of a band having inner and outer surfaces and flexible between locked and unlocked positions in response to a compressive force, wherein the inner surface is dimensioned to slidably engage the protective jacket in the unlocked position. The ban has an inwardly projecting ridge for securely engaging the fiber optic cable jacket in the locked position for preventing relative movement between the band and the cable jacket. A sleeve has a bore including a tapered front section for receiving and exerting a compressive force on the band.Type: GrantFiled: October 25, 1996Date of Patent: September 29, 1998Assignee: Federal Signal CorporationInventor: Kenneth G. Hollar
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Patent number: 5778121Abstract: A system includes mateable connectors (12, 14) with mateable optic fiber termini, which provides for precision alignment of the termini and which facilitates installation of an insert whose front end must be of rectangular shape. Two mating sets of optic fiber termini (30, 32) are precisely aligned by a pair of pin-receiving alignment holes (44, 46) in one connector and a pair of pins (40, 42) projecting from the other connector, wherein a first (40) of the alignment pins is precisely cylindrical and fits closely in the first hole, and a second (42) of the pins is also precisely cylindrical but fits into a hole (46) that is elongated in a direction toward and away from the first hole. A front portion (110) of an insert is of largely rectangular cross-section, while the rear portion (112) of the insert is of largely circular cross-section to enable retention by a circular retainer clip (120) and to provide threads (122) for threading into a backshell.Type: GrantFiled: November 5, 1996Date of Patent: July 7, 1998Assignee: ITT CorporationInventor: Peter Joseph Hyzin
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Patent number: 5732175Abstract: An improved connector mechanism having a connector coupling nut of a cylindrical tubular configuration with a bore extending therethrough. In one embodiment, the coupling nut has camming slots which align with bayonet pins on the mating adapter serving to draw the connector inwardly to the adapter upon rotation of the coupling nut. A detent window at the end of each camming slot engages and retains the bayonet pins driven slidingly along the camming slots during rotation. A resilient spring member provides stability between the end of the adapter and the internal bore of the coupling nut at the completion of the coupling operation. Variations of spring arrangements force the cylindrical fiber optic terminus, located axially centered within the coupling sleeve, forward to assure pressured abutment with a like mating terminus located opposite at the other end of the adapter.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 1997Date of Patent: March 24, 1998Assignee: LiteCom, Inc.Inventor: Robert Jui-Lin Fan
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Patent number: 5721799Abstract: Providing a simplified universal connector body. The new design providing significant more protection for the precision tip, and fiber optic cable than the previous design by completely enclosing all parts in a housing closed by a door, which can be removed for inspection. The sturdy crimp approach is retained allowing the design to survive significant abuse. Providing an improved ST outer housing. The new design eliminates the intricated jaw-hold-out in favor of a normally closed jaw that opens upon insertion onto the ST coupling. The jaw clamps is replaced by a jaw release. The new design is simpler and significantly more durable. Providing a new outer housing which enable the universal connector body to mate with the JR-type connector. This new design allows a one for one replacement of RJ-type copper connections with fiber optic connections on patch panels and electronic equipment.Type: GrantFiled: June 12, 1995Date of Patent: February 24, 1998Inventor: Vernon A. Fentress
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Patent number: 5680494Abstract: An FC-type optical fiber connector adapter, such as an FC/PC optical fiber connector adapter, is provided with a circumferential flange and at least one substantially radially extending projection for mounting in a panel designed to accommodate biconic optical fiber connector adapters. In one embodiment, the FC-type optical fiber connector adapter contains a circumferential groove with an O-ring to facilitate a tight frictional connection.Type: GrantFiled: May 16, 1996Date of Patent: October 21, 1997Assignee: Bell Atlantic Network Services, Inc.Inventor: Craig S. Kaas
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Patent number: 5649043Abstract: An optical fiber cable includes a central strength member 11 surrounded by a plurality of optical fiber containing tubes 20, the central strength member and tubes being encircled by a sheath 35. The optical fiber containing tubes have a generally frustum or truncated isosceles triangular shaped profile with the base 22 of the triangular shape having a curvature corresponding to the inside surface of the cable sheath and a top 24 (truncated edge or corner) of the triangle opposite and generally parallel to the base having a curvature corresponding to the outside diameter of the central strength member, the plurality of tubes being positioned adjacent to one another in a pie shape to thereby form a central channel within the cable for the central strength member. The truncated isosceles triangular shape of the tubes have a larger cross-sectional area within the tubes for carrying optical fiber cables. Additionally, the shape of the tubes provides improved resistance to compression of the cable.Type: GrantFiled: July 25, 1995Date of Patent: July 15, 1997Assignee: Alcatel NA Cable Systems, Inc.Inventors: Michael L. Adams, David A. Keller, Jorgen P.ang.born
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Patent number: 5630000Abstract: A multi-fibre connector consisting of a bush acting as a guide and coupling element for two ferrules, which are located one in front of the other and contain a sized hole in which two or more fibres are located in a radial arrangement, said two or more fibres being inserted and glued into the sized hole, after which the entire end surface of the ferrule and fibres is lapped in such a manner as to obtain a convex and/or angled surface. Means are provided for securely coupling together said ferrules and said bush. Said means are in the form of a longitudinal slit provided in the bush and a respective shaped insertion element rigidly fixed to a respective one of the facing end parts of said two ferrules, said shaped insertion element engaging in said slit.Type: GrantFiled: November 27, 1995Date of Patent: May 13, 1997Assignee: Sirti S.p.A.Inventors: Stefano Pitassi, Enrico Serafini
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Patent number: 5615291Abstract: A capillary for an optical fiber connector which is low in machining cost and a process for producing the same is provided. The capillary for an optical fiber connector of the present invention comprises a cylindrical ceramics sintered body, and having a straight-hole like narrow hole 3 with a slightly larger inner diameter than an outer diameter of the optical fiber bare line for passing the bare line of the optical fiber therethrough, and a tip surface for connection at which the narrow hole opens; and an inner surface of the narrow hole being substantially a sintered surface. Therefore, a number of steps of grinding of the inner surface of the narrow hole is markedly reduced thin the conventional capillary for an optical fiber connector so that production cost can be reduced to a low amount.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 1996Date of Patent: March 25, 1997Assignee: Toto Ltd.Inventors: Makoto Hayakawa, Osamu Kobayashi, Takeshi Yamauchi
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Patent number: 5594825Abstract: An optical connector ferrule is provided having an standard single mode optical fiber therein whose mode field diameter is approximately 10 .mu.m along its length. An end portion and the end face of the optical fiber are heated to thermally expanded the mode field diameter to approximately 20 .mu.m or greater for reducing power density at the end face. By providing an expanded mode field diameter at the end face of the fiber, the power density is lessened, thereby lessening the probability that any dirt or debris at the end face will become heated sufficiently to damage the optical fiber.Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 1995Date of Patent: January 14, 1997Assignee: JDS Fitel Inc.Inventors: Brian S. Kawasaki, Richard R. Parker
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Patent number: 5563973Abstract: This invention relates to temperature compensated FFPs with improved means for alignment of optical fibers. The invention provides ferrule holders with shaped ferrule passageways, as components of FFP alignment fixtures, in which optical fiber ends can be readily aligned using the ferrule rotary alignment method. The ferrule holders have a composite structure facilitating temperature compensation required for applications to PZT-tuned FFPs. The ferrule holder has a core and peripheral region made of materials having different thermal expansion coefficients. The holder core in contact with the ferrule is made of a material having a thermal expansion coefficient substantially matched to that of the ferrule material. In addition, ferrule holders are provided with a means for changing the points of contact between a secured ferrule and its holder which allows wavelength drift as a function of temperature in FFPs to be adjusted.Type: GrantFiled: May 30, 1995Date of Patent: October 8, 1996Assignee: Micron Optics, Inc.Inventors: Calvin M. Miller, Jeffrey W. Miller
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Patent number: 5563971Abstract: A multiple position fiber optic receptacle comprises a first receptacle member (1) joined to a second receptacle member (3). Captivated within and between the first and second receptacle members (1,3) is a coupling mechanism (17), an alignment sleeve (5), and a floating bottleneck (6). The floating bottleneck (6) permits independent adjustments of each alignment sleeve (5) relative to a ferrule to minimize the insertion force associated with ferrule to alignment sleeve misalignment. In an alternate embodiment, a floating bottleneck is removable permitting repair of the receptacle.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 1995Date of Patent: October 8, 1996Assignee: The Whitaker CorporationInventor: Frederic H. Abendschein
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Patent number: 5563978Abstract: The sleeve holder for an optical connector capable of preventing slip-off or disconnecting of the sleeve holder from a housing and eliminating breaking of a split sleeve due to the increase of an insertion force of the ferrule by maintaining always no-load state for engaging pieces. A tube-shaped main body inserted and held in the housing is mounted therein with a slider slidable in an axis direction. A split sleeve inserting and holding the ferrule is mounted at the insides of a tube body and the slider fixedly engaged coaxially with the main body, and such mount of the split sleeve together with the slider is slidable by a predetermined stroke in the axis direction.Type: GrantFiled: June 20, 1994Date of Patent: October 8, 1996Assignees: Sanwa Denki Kogyo Company Limited, Nippon Telegraph and Telphon Corporation, Honda Tsushin Kogyo Company LimitedInventors: Akira Kawahara, Yuji Shinagawa, Shin'ichi Iwano, Kazunori Kanayama, Yasuhiro Ando, Toshiaki Nakano, Hiromasa Okamura
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Patent number: 5542015Abstract: An optical fibre connector is shown comprising a jack mounted to a mother board and a plug mounted to a daughter board. The plug has a slidable insert retained by thrust lances against a shoulder of the plug housing such that the insert can be inserted into a cavity of the jack. Latches of the jack serve to latch onto ribs of the plug insert so as to butt a ferrule of the plug against a ferrule of the jack resiliently together. Further insertion of the insert into the jack causes ribs to release the thrust lances of the plug insert such that the insert springs rearwards allowing the plug housing to slide forwards without spring resistance, enabling absorption of a certain tolerance in the spacing between the daughter board and the mother board.Type: GrantFiled: November 25, 1994Date of Patent: July 30, 1996Assignee: The Whitaker CorporationInventor: Antonius P. C. M. Hultermans
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Patent number: 5519799Abstract: In an optical fiber array structure, a ferrule is provided around an optical fiber array. The ferrule has an outer configuration defined by combination of, preferably, two circles. Thus, eye glass-shaped outer configuration is obtained for the ferrule. The adapter has an aperture for receiving the ferrule, and the aperture has an inner configuration which is complementary with the outer configuration of the ferrule.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 1994Date of Patent: May 21, 1996Assignees: Hitachi Cable, Ltd., Hitachi, Ltd.Inventors: Kazuya Murakami, Tatsuo Teraoka, Shin-ichi Kajiyama, Takeshi Kato
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Patent number: 5502784Abstract: A connector for plastic optical fibers having improved heat resistance properties including a metallic core and a heat insulative tubular sleeve which surrounds the optical fiber. The outward tip of the metallic core is deformed to provide a mechanical, frictional engagement of the sleeve and optical fiber within the connector.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 1994Date of Patent: March 26, 1996Assignees: Valquest Medical, Inc., Fibotech, Inc.Inventor: Michel Y. Rondeau
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Patent number: 5487123Abstract: A connector is provided for securing one or more optical fibers to a mounting member, such as an instrument panel module wall or a light pipe within an instrument panel. The connector generally includes a body characterized by a longitudinal axis, a first end, an oppositely disposed second end, and an internal passage formed within the body along the longitudinal axis. The internal passage is tapered so as to have a smaller cross-section at the second end than at the first end, with the internal passage at the first end being sized to receive the one or more optical fibers. Expandable members are formed at the second end of the body, which enable the internal passage at the second end to radially expand and accommodate the optical fibers. In doing so, the expandable members serve to grip the optical fibers when disposed within the internal passage. At least one pair of resilient members extend from the midportion of the body, and both extend towards either the first or second end of the body.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 1994Date of Patent: January 23, 1996Assignee: Delco Electronics CorporationInventor: Juliana V. Fowble
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Patent number: 5459806Abstract: A fiber optic ferrule is provided with a fiber core mounted within the axial centerline of the ferrule, and the end face of the fiber ferrule has a chamfered lead in edge. The ferrule also has an end face which is offset from the axial centerline by an angle .beta.. The chamfered lead-in edge has edges proportionately angled such that the distance from the vertex of the polished end face to diametrically opposed edges of the convex surface are equal.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 1994Date of Patent: October 17, 1995Assignee: The Whitaker CorporationInventor: Antonius P. C. M. Hultermans
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Patent number: 5422970Abstract: Improved ferrule alignment fixtures for use in fiber Fabry-Perot (FFP) filters are provided. The inventive alignment fixtures have ferrule holders with shaped passageways for holding fiber-containing ferrules in three-point contact which allow fiber alignment using a rotary alignment technique.The FFPs have a fiber ferrule assembly which when aligned in the inventive ferrule holder forms an optical cavity between mirrors transverse to the fiber in the ferrule assembly. Wavelength tunable FFPs have a piezoelectric transducer interposed between the ferrule holders which can be used to change the length of the optical cavity and tune the filter.Type: GrantFiled: December 3, 1993Date of Patent: June 6, 1995Assignee: Micron-Optics, Inc.Inventors: Calvin M. Miller, Jeffrey W. Miller
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Patent number: 5394494Abstract: A fiber optic inline connector includes mating connector bodies each of which has a concentric protrusion at a connector end and a concentric cable passage that extends through the connector body from the connector end to a cable end. The concentric protrusions include a pair of diametrically opposed prongs and a pair of diametrically opposed slots that are orthogonally related to the diametrically opposed prongs so that the slots of each protrusion receive the prongs of the other protrusion to align the cable passages when the connector bodies are mated. The mated connector bodies are locked together by a pair of diametrically opposed stiff lock tongues and a pair of diametrically opposed flexible lock fingers at the connector end of each connector body that are spaced radially outwardly of the respective protrusions.Type: GrantFiled: January 27, 1994Date of Patent: February 28, 1995Assignee: General Motors CorporationInventors: Kurt L. Jennings, James R. Cirillo, James M. Cardinal
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Patent number: 5390270Abstract: An inner, optical fiber core clamping ferrule has an optical fiber clamping portion for receipt in an outer ferrule and defining an axially extending through-passageway, an axial slit extending through the clamping portion divides the passageway into two opposed groove portions receiving a prepared end of an optical fiber extending along the through-passageway. The inner ferrule is force-fitted in the outer ferrule to extend co-axially therewith, with wall portions thereof maintaining the opposed walls of the spaced apart slit in open condition so that opposed walls of the groove portions are pressed into gripping engagement with the optical fiber. The opposed walls of the slit diverge as they extend radially outwardly away from the groove portions. The inner ferrule may be split for the entire length of the through passageway forming two halve hinged together at one end or have open slits formed in an otherwise imperforate tubular wall.Type: GrantFiled: August 16, 1993Date of Patent: February 14, 1995Assignee: Kel CorporationInventors: Hideyuki Hanzawa, Toshihiro Nonaka
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Patent number: 5381500Abstract: A fiber optic termination for incorporating within a fiber optic connector is capable of mechanical assembly which can preclude the use of adhesives for termination assembly. A metal plunger compresses a bullet having an aperture therethrough into a constriction causing the bullet to grip a fiber. A metal insert lines the interior of an alignment ferrule and engages the actuating plunger with an interference fit. The interference fit retains the plunger over time and over a broad operating temperature range. Dimples on the outer surface of the metal insert create pockets of engagement between the insert and the alignment ferrule that resist axial displacement of the insert relative to the alignment ferrule.Type: GrantFiled: October 12, 1993Date of Patent: January 10, 1995Assignee: The Whitaker CorporationInventors: Bryan T. Edwards, David D. Erdman, Joseph L. McKee, Kevin T. Monroe
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Patent number: 5381497Abstract: A fiber optic connector includes a ferrule received within a ferrule holder. The ferrule holder is provided with venting to evacuate air from an adhesive receiving chamber to avoid air pocket formation in adhesive.Type: GrantFiled: July 27, 1993Date of Patent: January 10, 1995Assignee: ADC Telecommunications, Inc.Inventors: David S. Toland, Michael F. McGuire, Gary S. Farrell, Kevin J. Pitkin, Michael S. Beard, David Emmons, James W. Conroy, Robert J. Ziebol
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Patent number: 5367594Abstract: An optical fiber splicer-connector comprises a fiber section, a splice section, and a connecting section. The splice section is located between the fiber section and the connecting section. A fiber channel is disposed on the fiber section for accepting an optical fiber and for guiding the optical fiber to the splice section. Means for splicing optical fibers is located on the splice section. A fiber channel is disposed on the connecting section for accepting an optical fiber and for guiding the optical fiber to the splice section. The connecting section includes a connecting body for releasably attaching the splicer to an adapter. In one embodiment, the splice section and the connecting section are provided as separate, interengagable pieces.Type: GrantFiled: May 24, 1993Date of Patent: November 22, 1994Assignee: The Whitaker CorporationInventors: Robert Essert, Brent W. Thomas
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Patent number: 5337385Abstract: A terminating device for an optical waveguide, comprising a sleeve-like terminating member (23, 25; 271) in which an optical waveguide section (47; 229) having a coupling face ground to be plane is glued on the one hand and in which an optical waveguide (19, 21, 213) abutting said optical waveguide section (47; 229) is inserted on the other hand. Such a terminating member can be used in an optical waveguide connector (15,17; 211). In an optical waveguide connection assembly (11; 211) using such connectors (15, 17; 211), portions of the terminating members (23, 25; 271) projecting from a coupling face of the connector (15, 17; 211) are centered in a centering means (83; 299) with respect to their required radial position.Type: GrantFiled: November 16, 1992Date of Patent: August 9, 1994Assignee: The Whitaker CorporationInventors: Kurt P. Baderschneider, Friedrich J. A. Kourimsky, Gheorghe Hotea
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Patent number: 5315684Abstract: An end connector for fiber optic transport cables. A cable clamp received within a passageway of a housing which receives the cable is provided to hold the cable in a secured position so as to resist rotational and longitudinal forces applied to the cable. Support coupling units are provided both internal and external the equipment which the cable is to be connected to. The coupling units allow the end connector to be coupled to and decoupled from the equipment without unnecessary rotation of the end connector and cable and without having to remove the cable from the end connector. Grounding components are provided for grounding conductive members associated with the cable so as to prevent damage due to voltage surges and to prevent RF signal leakage.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 1992Date of Patent: May 24, 1994Assignee: John Mezzalingua Assoc. Inc.Inventor: Andrew Szegda
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Patent number: 5297227Abstract: A disengagable adapter for mechanically coupling optical fibers is provid The disengagable adapter separates into two complementary receptacle parts. Each receptacle part receives through a bore a single optical-fiber located within an optical-fiber connector plug. Each receptacle part attaches to and securely holds a different connector plug. The receptacle parts mate with each other in a complementary fashion and thereby connect the two optical fiber connector plugs together. These connector plugs accordingly align the two optical fibers located within the plugs. The optical fibers can be separated either by demating the complementary parts or by disconnecting one side of the adapter from its connector plug. Mounting the complementary parts to a plate facilitates multiple, simultaneous connections.Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 1993Date of Patent: March 22, 1994Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the NavyInventors: Gair D. Brown, Michael A. Richardson, Gary A. Burcham
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Patent number: 5285510Abstract: A fiber optic connector resists signal interruption with a structure that has an inner body, that receives and mounts an optical fiber, and that has an outer body having an axial passage that receives the inner body. The outer body has two sections arranged in axial succession. The outer-body back section mounts a captive element for mechanical coupling with a further optical device with which the connector mates. The forward, second section of the outer body is arranged for limited axial displacement relative to the first section. The connector has structure forming two springs or like resiliently acting elements; one biases the front end of the inner body axially forward relative to the back of the outer body, and the second biases the front of the outer body forward relative to the back section of the outer body.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 1992Date of Patent: February 8, 1994Assignee: The Whitaker CorporationInventor: Paul Slaney
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Patent number: 5283850Abstract: An optical fiber connector comprises a deformable sleeve (5) for receiving the fiber(s) in a rigid connector body (13) to hold the fibers (20) in position relative to the body. After compression, the front end of the sleeve remains set back inside the body.Type: GrantFiled: April 3, 1992Date of Patent: February 1, 1994Inventor: Alain Souloumiac
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Patent number: 5276751Abstract: The side surface of a ferrule (16) carrying a polarization-maintaining option fiber (10) has a projecting substantially dihedral-angled portion (17, 19) engaged in a complementary re-entrant substantially dihedral angled portion (22, 24) formed in a ferrule receiver (20). The invention is particularly applicable to making a laser-emitting head for an optical fiber telecommunications network.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 1992Date of Patent: January 4, 1994Assignee: Alcatel CitInventors: Emmanuel Grard, Daniel Mousseaux, Fabrice Pitel
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Patent number: 5267342Abstract: A light attenuating element comprising a ferrule and two optical fibers inserted through the ferrule along an optical axis thereof is disclosed. The inner ends of both the optical fibers are cut with a predetermined inclination angle and spaced from each other with a predetermined distance therebetween to obtain a required light attenuation value. A light attenuating element including an alignment sleeve into which two ferrules each having an optical fiber inserted therethrough are fitted with a predetermined distance being maintained between the foremost ends thereof is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 1992Date of Patent: November 30, 1993Assignee: Seikoh Giken Co., Ltd.Inventors: Mitsuo Takahashi, Kunio Yamada
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Patent number: 5257333Abstract: Connection device for connecting the end portions of optical fibres (30) comprising insertion means (12) and receiving means (11) designed for cooperation with at least a centering means (37) for radial and axial centering of the end portions of the optical fibres relative to each other. The centering means (37) is comprised of a sleeve (38) being closed in cross-section and provided with internal guiding elements (39) in the form of centering shanks extending in the longitudinal direction, and external guiding elements (40) in the form of ridge formed portions (40) extending in the longitudinal direction of the sleeve connected to the centering shanks and designed to allow the centering shanks to radially spring in a direction toward and from the center axis of the sleeve.Type: GrantFiled: May 26, 1992Date of Patent: October 26, 1993Inventor: Anders Nodfelt
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Patent number: 5239603Abstract: An integrally-molded ceramic cylindrical alignment sleeve is composed of a cylindrical sleeve body and at least three convex portions located on the inner surface of the sleeve body, each of the convex portions extending from one end to the other in the longitudinal direction of the sleeve body, with the upper surface of each of the convex portions being formed in the shape of a reverse arc and the section where each of the convex portions connects to the inner surface of the sleeve body being in the shape of a continuous R. A method of producing this integrally-molded ceramic cylindrical alignment sleeve is disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: June 11, 1992Date of Patent: August 24, 1993Assignees: Kyocera Corporation, Sanwa Denki Kogyo Co., Ltd.Inventors: Hideto Sonoda, Toshiyuki Matsumoto
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Patent number: 5231687Abstract: A termination system is provided for use with optical fibre members installed in tubular passageways using a flow of air or other gas. The system comprises a chamber defined by a body having an opening provided with a removable cover. An end of at least one passageway in which a first optical fibre member may be installed is terminated on the body so that the passageway communicates with the interior of the chamber. Means are mounted on the cover for terminating an end of at least one second optical fibre member. Preferably the passageway carries a plurality of first optical fibre members and the cover has means for terminating the ends of an equal plurality of the second optical fibre members.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 1991Date of Patent: July 27, 1993Assignees: BICC PLC, Corning LimitedInventor: Graham R. Handley
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Patent number: 5230032Abstract: An optical fiber connection system is provided, of the type wherein the front tips (30, 32, FIG. 2) of two optical fibers substantially abut one another, which precisely aligns the two fiber tips while keeping them pressed together, in a low cost plastic construction. Each connector of a mating pair includes an optical fiber assembly (24, 26) mounted in a housing, the assembly including a forward ferrule (40, 42) crimped to the front end portion of a fiber. One connector housing has an alignment sleeve (70) lying about the forward ferrule of that connector, the sleeve having slots forming tines (80-84) with free front ends extending forward of the corresponding ferrule (40). The other connector housing has a tine deflector (96) that deflects the free front ends of the tines against the front ends of the substantially abutting ferrules.Type: GrantFiled: June 11, 1991Date of Patent: July 20, 1993Assignee: ITT CorporationInventor: Steven Z. Muzslay
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Patent number: 5224187Abstract: A fiber optic cable connector secures a fiber optic cable to an equipment housing (e.g., a CATV equipment housing) and allow individual fibers of the cable to pass into the housing in a strain relieved condition for connection to electro-optical componentry. A strength component of the fiber optic cable is clamped within the connector body, exterior of the equipment housing, to strain-relieve the optical fibers from forces imparted to the cable, without taking up housing space. Also, the connector clamps a strength component of a protective "fan-out" tube covering the individual fibers of the cable passing from the connector into the housing, to strain-relieve the fibers from forces imparted to the fan-out tube. The clamping action is effected by progressive threaded engagement of two connector bodies.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 1992Date of Patent: June 29, 1993Assignee: Scientific-Atlanta, Inc.Inventor: Gary A. Davisdon
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Patent number: 5218657Abstract: An optical fiber connecting ferrule according to the present invention comprises head and tail cylindrical sections of relatively large diameter, and an intermediate cylindrical section of relatively small diameter integrally connected to said head and tail cylindrical sections. With this arrangement the ferrule can be flexibly bent at its intermediate cylindrical section under undesired force applied to the ferrule, thus causing no adverse effect on an associated slotted sleeve, and hence causing no insertion loss in transmission even when undesired force is applied to the ferrule.Type: GrantFiled: April 16, 1992Date of Patent: June 8, 1993Assignee: Honda Tsushin Kogyo Co., Ltd.Inventors: Kazuhiro Tokudome, Toshiaki Eguchi, Fumiaki Mochida
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Patent number: 5216734Abstract: A fiber optic connector has a low cost ferrule assembly that protectively supports, positions and aligns an optical fiber The ferrule has an outer ferrule body terminating in an alignment passage and which seats an inner support member within which the fiber extends. This ferrule is particularly advantageous for use with unbuffered optical fibers and adhesiveless connectors.Type: GrantFiled: June 12, 1992Date of Patent: June 1, 1993Assignee: AMP IncorporatedInventor: Soren Grinderslev
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Patent number: 5201019Abstract: A durable, low loss splice connection for optical cables includes two ceramic optical fiber guide members which are held in axial and angular alignment by an alignment sleeve, and in butt joint intimate contact by a spring tension clip. The connection is mechanically and environmentally sealed by a heat shrink tube having an interior diameter coated with hot melt adhesive.Type: GrantFiled: July 15, 1991Date of Patent: April 6, 1993Assignee: Amphenol CorporationInventors: David O. Gallusser, John H. Mikolaicyk
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Patent number: 5140659Abstract: A combination connector (20) includes a first half connector (22) with a fixed central body (40) and a slidable exterior housing (54) that is biased to a first position, and a second half connector (24) with a fixed exterior housing (70) and a slidable interior body (82) that is biased to a first position. The fixed central body (40) of the first half connector (22) has electrical contacts (42) on its periphery, and the fixed exterior housing (70) has electrical contacts on its interior wall. The slidable exterior housing (54) of the first half connector (22) protects the connection points before the connection is made, and is pushed back to expose the connection points as the two connectors are mated together.Type: GrantFiled: April 1, 1991Date of Patent: August 18, 1992Assignee: Hughes Aircraft CompanyInventors: Kevin S. Minds, Leonard Ellman
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Patent number: 5136681Abstract: A new type of optical power attenuator of the variable attenuation type. The optical connector ferrule edges are finished by polishing them at an inclination angle of seven to 12 degrees with respect to the optical axis thereof, and both ferrule edges face each other with a gap therebetween. One of the ferrule edges is fastened not so that it can be rotated whereas the other can be rotated around its optical axis. The attenuation is determined by both the inclination and gap, and it can be set stably by adjustment of the angle of the rotation around the optical axis of the ferrules.Type: GrantFiled: July 9, 1991Date of Patent: August 4, 1992Assignee: Seikoh Giken Co., Ltd.Inventor: Mitsuo Takahashi
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Patent number: 5134677Abstract: A fiber-optic connector for a cable with an optical fiber. The connector includes a first backpost having an exteriorly threaded forward portion, a rearward portion attachable to the cable, and a central passageway extending therethrough. The connector has a body with a forward portion, an interiorly threaded rearward portion, and a central passageway extending therethrough. The body threads have a pitch diameter and pitch thread which mate with the threads of the first backpost. A second backpost is positioned within the body central passageway, and has a forward portion which holds a ferrule in position, and a rearward portion which extends through a rearward opening in the body and into a forward opening of the first backpost. The second backpost rearward portion and the first backpost central passageway are non-cylindrical to prevent rotation of the second backpost.Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 1991Date of Patent: July 28, 1992Assignee: Augat Communications GroupInventors: Alexander M. C. Leung, William S. Jensen, Guido Bertoglio fu Edoardo
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Patent number: 5134676Abstract: The invention relates to a connector for fiber optics, having two ferrules mounted on the end of each of the fibers to be connected, each having a bore into which the fiber optic can be inserted loosely and fixed in place such that its end coincides with the end of the ferrule, and a female reconstitution coupling having a longitudinal bore to support and align the two ferrules face to face, and longitudinal pressure means to thrust each of the ferrules toward the other, characterized by the fact that it includes a separator (11) of resilient plastic material having a refractive index equal to or close to that of the core of the fibers (8) to be connected, the said separator having, prior to its installation, a thickness at least equal to the gap (e) between the ends of the confronting fibers once the connection is made, the said separator (1) being made integral with a sleeve (12) adapted to be positioned and held inside of the female reconstitution coupling.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 1991Date of Patent: July 28, 1992Assignee: RadiallInventors: Laurent Boillot, Boudard Serge
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Patent number: 5125058Abstract: The present invention relates to a fiber optic connection (1) between a sensor-guide portion (2) comprising an optic fiber (4) arranged in an air channel, said optic fiber (4) leading to a sensor element in the farther end of said sensor-guide portion (2), and a connective portion (3) comprising an optic fiber (8) arranged in an air channel, said optic fiber (8) leading to an electronic unit, wherein said optic fiber (4) said sensor-guide portion (2) and said optic fiber (8) of said connective portion (3) being aligned against each other in fixed, light transmitting position when said connection (1) is closed, and an outwards pressure tight air channel (11) is formed in the closed position of said connection, said air channel (11) extending continuously from said electronic unit to said sensor element via said connection (1). Furthermore, the invention relates to use of the connection (1) during intravascular pressure measuring, especially of artherosclerotic vessels.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 1991Date of Patent: June 23, 1992Assignee: Radi Medical Systems ABInventors: Lars Tenerz, Dan Akerfeldt
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Patent number: 5125057Abstract: An optical fiber splicing device (20) includes a glass cylindrically shaped capillary tube member (24) having a passageway formed therethrough eccentrically of the longitudinal axis of the capillary tube member. The capillary tube member is provided with a slot (86) such that a portion of the passageway in the form of a groove (88) extends across a planar surface (87) formed by the slot. The capillary tube member is mounted in a housing (22) which is made of a material and formed to provide a lens opposite to the slot to facilitate visual inspection of ends of end portions of two optical fibers which are positioned in the groove. A spring clamp (26) is mounted to the housing in a first position spaced from the planar surface to allow insertion of fiber end portions into the groove.Type: GrantFiled: April 8, 1991Date of Patent: June 23, 1992Assignee: AT&T Bell LaboratoriesInventors: James A. Aberson, Jr., Scott T. Davies, George F. DeVeau, Joseph K. Lo