Abstract: An image sensor may be constructed as an imager die onto which is adhered an optical spacer. The imager die and optical spacer may be supported by a dam-and-fill construction which allows light to pass through the optical spacer and onto the imager die. The image sensor may generate control signals for use in a variety of automatic vehicle equipment controls and may be incorporated into an automotive vehicle such as by inclusion into a rearview mirror assembly.

Abstract: In forming an interconnection between a component and an electronic circuit, a base with precise component pockets is loaded with components. The components are patterned with a thin layer of solder paste. Next, a frame including a stencil, vertical walls and locating or keying features is placed onto the base. The stencil rests a controlled distance above the components. A multitude of solder spheres are dispensed into the frame. Solder balls retained within the frame are passed through the stencil and into contact with solder paste. Most preferably, due to controlled spacing between the stencil and components, only one solder ball is able to pass through each stencil hole. The remaining solder spheres in the frame are collected through various alternative techniques, including a disclosed emptying gate. Then the frame with stencil is removed from the base. The solder paste and solder spheres are heated, resulting in a reflow of the solder paste and a bonding of the solder spheres to the component.

Abstract: A detachable fiber optic connector has an improved nose block (800) which enhances cooling of power dissipating components, simplifies assembly, improves yield and reduces cost. The improved nose block (800) includes an upper tray (802) and lower tray (804) which slidingly receive an improved aluminum nitride optical subassembly (700). The subassembly (700) and nose block (800) are held together, properly aligned, and then fixated. The nose block (800) also has symmetrical protrusions (850) which allow the nose block (800) to be placed easily and precisely into mating protrusions (230, 240) in a seal ring (200). The nose block (800) provides a direct thermal pathway between power dissipating components, such as an opto-electronic component (750) and optical driver IC (730), and an aluminum package base (400). Various alternative nose blocks (810, 820, 830) are illustrated, and an alternative base (410) is also shown.

Abstract: A detachable fiber optic connector provides connection from an optical source or sink through a hermetic connection to a removable attached optical fiber. Ferrules and a split ring are used for alignment. A variety of alternative embodiments are illustrated for providing coupling force between the ferrules and retaining forces to prevent movement of the connection during movement of the fiber relative to the optical source or sink. These detachable fiber optic connectors provide great benefit when combined with hermetic packaging.

Abstract: A detachable fiber optic connector provides connection from an optical source or sink through a hermetic connection to a removable attached optical fiber. Ferrules and a split ring are used for alignment. A variety of alternative embodiments are illustrated for providing coupling force between the ferrules and retaining forces to prevent movement of the connection during movement of the fiber relative to the optical source or sink. These detachable fiber optic connectors provide great benefit when combined with hermetic packaging.

Abstract: A detachable fiber optic connector provides connection from an optical source or sink through a hermetic connection to a removable attached optical fiber. Ferrules and a split ring are used for alignment. A variety of alternative embodiments are illustrated for providing coupling force between the ferrules and retaining forces to prevent movement of the connection during movement of the fiber relative to the optical source or sink. These detachable fiber optic connectors provide great benefit when combined with hermetic packaging.