Abstract: Thin panel illuminator includes a solid transparent panel member having one or more deformed output regions which cause light entering the panel along an input edge thereof to be emitted along the length of the panel. Light may be transmitted to one or more panel input edges from one or more light sources utilizing transition devices which convert easily focused light generally to the shape of the panel input surfaces.

Abstract: A connector assembly includes buffer material surrounding the optical fibers at one end of an optical fiber light cable and a ferrule crimped onto the buffer material which squeezes the buffer material and packs the optical fiber ends substantially solid. During the crimping operation, the buffer material protects the optical fibers from the ferrule while permitting the optical fibers to be deformed to a desired cross-sectional shape, for example, to that of a polygon so they are packed more solid. Different types of shielding may be used to prevent light from a light source from striking selected areas of the polished end of the connector assembly including particularly the buffer material and, if desired, a surrounding ferrule to reduce heat build-up in the connector assembly so that more light energy can be transmitted through the light cable without overheating.

Abstract: Thin panel illuminator includes a solid transparent panel member having one or more deformed output regions which cause light entering the panel along an input edge thereof to be emitted along the length of the panel. Light may be transmitted to one or more panel input edges from one or more light sources utilizing transition devices which convert easily focused light generally to the shape of the panel input surfaces.