Abstract: A monocentric arrangement of optical components providing stereoscopic display of a virtual image, electronically generated, line by line, from a linear image source (36) and projected, as a real intermediate image, near the focal surface (22) of a curved mirror (24) by means of a scanning ball lens assembly (100). To form each left and right intermediate image component, a separate image generation system (70) comprises a scanning ball lens assembly (100) comprising a spherical lens (46) for wide field of view and a reflective surface (102). A monocentric arrangement of optical components images the left and right scanning ball lens pupil at the corresponding left and right viewing pupil (14) of the observer (12) and essentially provides a single center of curvature for projection components. Use of such a monocentric arrangement with linear image source (36) and scanning ball lens assemblies (100) provides an exceptionally wide field of view with large viewing pupil (14).

Abstract: A digital image projector includes an illumination-light source lamp and illumination beam forming optics for forming a white-spectrum illumination beam and color-band-separation optics to divide the illumination beam into color-component subbeams. The digital image projector also includes a reflective digital-image-encoding polarization modulator mechanism such as a reflective liquid crystal display polarization modulator to reflectively modulate the linearly polarized subbeams to form color-component image encoded-polarization subbeams and projection lens optics for projecting a color image divided from the image encoded-polarization subbeams.

Abstract: Three colors of light beams from a light source travel via a first optical system to strike a reflecting surface of a rotating polygon mirror, or mirrors, at different angles without overlapping. The rotating polygon mirror or mirrors reflect the light beams for scanning. The reflected light beams enter a second optical system at different angles to illuminate an image display panel at different portions. On the image display panel, belt-like regions illuminated by the light beams of individual colors are formed in parallel with each other, and these illuminated regions are moved continuously by scanning. A formed color image is magnified and projected by a projection optical system. With such a projection type image display apparatus, a display having high resolution and light efficiency that is also small, thin and inexpensive is achieved.

Abstract: An apparatus for compensating a projected image employs a projected image compensator, such as a suitably programmed graphics processor or other processing device, and receives projection display compensation parameters to perform electronic projected image correction based on the received projection on display compensation parameters. The projected image compensator obtains stored final image data, such as data finally rendered by a 2D or 3D graphics engine, that has been stored in a frame buffer, and performs scaling of the final image data to produce projection compensated final image data. In one embodiment, the projection compensated final image data is stored back in the frame buffer memory and then output under control of a display controller. In another embodiment, the projection compensated final image data is not returned back to the frame buffer memory.

Abstract: An image projection system includes an image generator, a screen and a focus and aim component. The focus and aim component receives modulated light from the image generator and focuses and deflects the light as a function of a position on the screen. The component consists of an array of lenslets with wedge. The wedge or prism refracts the light and the lens focuses the light. As a result, the optics are selectively tailored to provide a clear image over the entire field of view, even in systems compact in depth that would otherwise rely on a short focal length lens. Acute incidence angles at the periphery of the screen are handled by TIR Fresnel lens elements or by diffractive elements. The focus and aim capability is alternatively provided by holographic elements in a holographic array.

Abstract: A method of fabricating a display system includes bonding a silicon substrate to a second substrate with an insulating layer. The silicon substrate is thinned to form a thin film silicon-on-insulator (SOI) structure. A matrix display circuit is formed with the SOI structure. A light shield pattern is formed over regions of the matrix display circuit. A light source, the matrix display circuit and a magnifying lens are positioned within a display housing such that light from the light source is directed onto the display and an image on the display is magnified by the lens for viewing by a user.

Abstract: This single-actuator-and-cam, remotely adjustable, exterior vehicle rear-view mirror provides the driver with glare-free viewing toward the rear of the vehicle, by switching between a high-reflectivity position and a low-reflectivity position at the same view adjustment. The exterior rear-view mirrors are repositioned with only a single motor working with a rotary cam to scan all possible mirror positions. The single-motor mechanism increases the reliability of the mirror system. The single motor accomplishes both the directional alignment and the day/night reflectivity adjustment of the mirror by use of a cam which has positions for all predicted view positions, with two reflectivity positions for each view. This invention works equally well with flat wedge mirrors and wide-angle convex wedge mirrors.

Abstract: A vehicle side mirror that includes a forward scalp portion selectively removable from a forward side of the mirror housing. The scalp portion can be replaced with an extended auxiliary towing mirror scalp that conforms with the housing of the side mirror, and provides an extended auxiliary mirror attached thereto that is suitable for providing extended side viewing for towing purposes. In one particular embodiment, the towing scalp is interchangeable with an auxiliary turn signal light scalp to allow the towing vehicle to be readily converted to a suitable towing situation. In alternate embodiments, the towing mirror is slidably extendable from a support panel associated with a side mirror, or the tow mirror is pivotally extendable from a bottom surface of the side mirror.

Abstract: A reflection type optical device comprises a transparent base member having an incident light receiving surface, at least a reflection surface for internally reflecting the incident light and a light emitting surface for emitting the reflected light. A dielectric layer is formed on each of the incident light receiving surface and the light emitting surface, and a metal layer is formed on all the remaining surfaces of the transparent base member other than the incident light receiving surface and the light emitting surface.

Abstract: In an optical switch system for switching over plural input lights and plural output lights corresponding thereto through spatial optical connection therebetween, having: a first reflection mirror to be directed with an input light and being controllable in position thereof; a second reflection mirror disposed opposite to the first reflection mirror, for reflecting the light reflected on the first reflection mirror, so as to outputted it therefrom; means for controlling positions of the first and second reflection mirrors, respectively; and means for adjusting the position of the first and second mirrors, which are controller by the controlling means, wherein a reference light being substantially different from the input light in wavelength is generated; both the reference light and the input light reflect upon the first and second reflection mirrors; and (c) optical intensity of the reference light selectively diverged from the reflection light is detected, thereby controlling positions of the first and said

Abstract: A mirror assembly in which the mirror housing and multi-function backing plate provide various useful functions. The multi-function backing plate supports not only a conventional reflective element but also supports a wide angle reflective element. The wide angle reflective element may be adjustable. The multi-function backing plate supports an indicator light assembly so that the mirror assembly can provide an indicator light function. The multi-function backing plate also support a recessible spot or approach lamp which, when the mirror is in an operative position, is recessed within the housing. When the mirror is in an inoperative state, the multi-function backing plate can be rotated so as to expose the spot or approach light. Various light pipe configurations enable transmission of light projected from a light source mounted to and behind the multi-function backing plate to project light through the light pipe externally to the mirror housing to provide an indicator light function.

Abstract: A small panel member of flexible, magnetized sheet material with a front surface at least partially covered with highly reflective material, and a back surface including an adhesive strip. The apparatus may be stored in a vehicle until needed, and placed on the front, rear or sides of a vehicle by applying the magnetized panel to a metallic surface. Alternatively, the adhesive strip may be used to affix the panel to a non-magnetic surface on the vehicle. A short length of cable is connected to the panel and terminates in an anchor, so that when the panel is affixed to the outside of the vehicle, the cable can be passed through the jamb gap between the trunk lid and body, or door and door jamb, with the block locked inside the trunk or passenger compartment, effectively locking the panel to the vehicle to prevent displacement or theft.

Abstract: In a pointer instrument (1) having a pointer shaft (12) that deflects a pointer flag (10), the pointer flag (10) can be illuminated by means of a light source (14). For this purpose, the light source (14) is formed, for example, as a light-emitting polymer (13), which is applied between the pointer flag (10), which is formed at the same time as an electrode, and a further, transparent electrode (15), and emits light of any desired coloration under appropriate electrical excitation. The pointer flag (10) can assume any desired shape as the result of using such a light source (14) that can be shaped. In particular, multiple curvatures can be represented without differences in brightness occurring in this case.

Abstract: Horizontal street lamp (10) of an oblong concave structure housing a source of light, with a downward-facing mouth in whose center is applied a frame (60) with a cavity into which a substantially vertical plate (80) can be freely inserted, said plate being illuminated by a source of light to create a sort of road sign, or for purposes of advertising, decoration generally.

Abstract: An illuminated message or design is displayed on the surface of an inner container for viewing through an outer container. Light emitting diodes are placed under the outer container, and near its perimeter, allowing the light to be directly introduced into the peripheral wall cavity formed between the inner container and outer container. This allows optimal utilization of the light for lighting the inner container surface generally, and for directing a portion of the light to the inner container's bottom edge for entrapment within the inner container peripheral wall. The entrapped light is transmitted through the inner container peripheral wall until the light encounters a nonconformity that redirects the light outwardly through the outer container. Varying inner container shapes interact with the light and create several distinct light mantles.

Abstract: An illuminated drinking vessel includes a fluid retaining cup and a light housing which is releasably attached via a snap-connection. A light emitting diode(s) is mounted within the light housing and a switch mechanism is provided for selectively connecting the light emitting diode with a battery(s) mounted or inserted within the light housing. More particularly, the switch mechanism is provided that is actuated when the light housing is attached to the drinking vessel by snap-connection.

Abstract: The present invention pertains to the provision of Light Emitting Polymer structure, which increases the versatility of the coloring and marking of surface areas of manufactured items, particularly fabric and garments.

Abstract: Disclosed is an innovated structure for hand tools comprising a tool accommodation apparatus and a lighting equipment for supplementary lighting or an emergency lighting source. The tool accommodation apparatus further includes a took set installed therearound consisting several kinds of hand tool. The structure is characterized in that when the tools are to be used, a selected tool is pushed forwardly and upwardly from its fixed position to the top end of the tool accommodation apparatus ready for use.

Abstract: Power tools are taught having a motor M1, a tool 1 coupled to the motor M1 via a tool holder 2, at least one light 4 disposed proximal to the tool 1, a switch 6 coupled to the motor M1 and the light 4, the switch 6 being capable of activation by an operator, a power supply 7 coupled to the switch 6, and a timer circuit 3 coupled to the light 4, the switch 6 and the power supply 7. Preferably, activation of the switch 6 causes the motor M1 and the light 4 to operate and the timer circuit 3 causes the light 4 to remain lit for a predetermined amount of time after either (1) the switch 6 has been activated or (2) the switch 6 has been deactivated subsequent to being activated. The timer circuit 3 can be, for example, a RC timer circuit 11 or a microprocessor 15. The light 4 may be an LED. The power supply 7 can be a rechargeable battery Ba.

Abstract: An air blast tool having an air nozzle and integrated air powered electrical generator with electric lamp is disclosed. Compressed air supplied to the air blast tool is also supplied to the air powered generator within the tool to produce electricity. Light produced by the electric lamp is directed in the same direction as the air blast nozzle to enable the user to readily see machined surfaces and the like.

Abstract: A high-low light-emitting diode glow-in-the-dark flashlight. The flashlight includes an end cap assembly that snaps onto the top of a 9-volt battery. The battery functions as both a power source and a handle. The end cap assembly includes a highly efficient and high brightness LED and a switch that turns the light on and off. A spot on the flashlight glows when turned off, allowing the flashlight to be easily located in the dark. The end cap assembly further includes a 9-volt battery snap that releasably connects to the terminal of a conventional 9-volt battery. The end cap assembly simply snaps on and off the terminal end of the battery. In another embodiment, a glow-in-the-dark housing fits over the end cap assembly. The flashlight is small and lightweight.

Abstract: A beacon light includes a tubular bottom shell having a closed end and an open end. A battery housing is in the bottom shell and is adapted to contain batteries and connect them in series. A tubular, translucent light diffuser is on and secured to the open end of the bottom shell. A printed circuit board is in the light diffuser. A plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) are mounted on the printed circuit board and electrically connected in parallel with respect to each other. Also on the printed circuit board is a switch and a integrated circuit which are electrically connect in series with the LEDs. The printed circuit board also has battery contacts at one end which engage electrodes on the batteries in the bottom shell so as to connect the LEDs to the batteries through the switch and the integrated circuit. A switch button extends through the light diffuser and is adapted to engage the switch to operate the switch. A cap is on the top of the light diffuser.

Abstract: A light tube for use over a light element, wherein the light tube comprises an elongated, generally tubular body having a first end, a second end, a length between the first and second ends, and a longitudinal axis extending from the first end to the second end, a longitudinal slot extending generally parallel to the longitudinal axis from the first end to the second end of the body, the slot having a first side and a second side, and at least a first notch adjacent the longitudinal slot, wherein the first notch extends from the first end of the body toward the second end of the body on one of the sides of the longitudinal slot. The light tube may further comprise a second notch adjacent the longitudinal slot, wherein the second notch extends from the first end of the body toward the second end of the body on the other side of the longitudinal slot.

Abstract: A rear lighting backplate that includes a backplate lower which is engaged with a backplate upper. A lead frame is sandwiched between the backplate lower and backplate upper. The backplate lower includes a receptacle for receiving a wire harness, and the backplate upper includes one or more integral bulb sockets which are configured to receive bulbs. The lead frame conductively engages each bulb which is engaged with the backplate upper and conductively engages the wire harness which is engaged in the receptacle on the backplate lower. Preferably, the lead frame includes clips for conductively engaging and retaining the bulbs in the bulb sockets. The backplate is preferably configured for selective engagement and disengagement from a lamp housing. Preferably, the backplate provides a sealing surface around each bulb for sealing with the lamp housing when the backplate is engaged therewith.

Abstract: A decorative light includes a length of flexible core provided with bulbs and wires electrically connected to the bulbs, and a substantially transparent outer covering encasing the core. In addition, a slot is longitudinally defined in the core and having a resilient member received in the slot. With the addition of the resilient member, the decorative light is able to be folded to any shape.

Abstract: The present invention is a device that functions as a letter display panel 1. The display panel 1 is a body 2 that is a relatively thin piece of material having front and rear surfaces 4 and 6 with an edge 5 that extends between the front and rear surfaces, 4 and 6. In a preferred embodiment, a kit having a plurality of identical display panels 1 is provided for use with ornamental light strings. Each separate display panel 1 is capable of forming an individual lighted letter when used with the ornamental light string, as will be described below. The separate display panels 1 may be then coupled together to form written messages and the like.

Abstract: A lighting apparatus. The apparatus includes a first mechanism for holding a lamp. The apparatus includes a media. The apparatus includes a second mechanism for holding the media to the first holding mechanism. The second mechanism is removably attachable to the first mechanism. The media is removably attachable to the second mechanism so the media will not separate from the second mechanism when the second mechanism is separated from the first mechanism. A lighting apparatus. The apparatus includes a mounting structure. The apparatus includes a gimbal ring assembly for holding a lamp. The gimbal ring assembly has a first axis and a second axis perpendicular with the first axis. The gimbal ring assembly is rotatable about the first axis and about the second axis. The gimbal ring assembly is connected to the mounting structure. The apparatus includes a locking mechanism for locking the gimbal ring assembly in a fixed position relative to the first axis, to the second axis and the mounting structure.

Abstract: A lighting fixture for a heat generating light bulb which includes a pair of heat sinks to assist in dissipating heat and also an airflow path that extends through the lighting fixture that causes air to flow past the light bulb and the heat sinks with the heated air to pass through louvers and openings formed within the housing shell of the light fixture into the ambient.

Abstract: An operating-room lighting device with an inner lighting unit that includes at least one discharge lamp and an inner reflector in a housing. The lighting unit is at least partially enclosed by an outer annular housing with an annularly or polygonally designed reflector for convergent deviation of light emitted by the lighting unit into an illumination field. The outer reflector includes, on its side facing the inner lighting unit, a closed transparent surface whose back adjoins a reflective layer. The reflective layer is applied to the back of the transparent surface. The inner lighting unit and the outer reflector are held together by a connecting member, which is articulated to a curved intermediate piece for attachment to a stationary support.

Abstract: The present invention is an apparatus for maintaining a light fixture diffuser in contact with a light fixture base by means of a retainer. In a light fixture, a threaded rod is used to connect the diffuser to the base. A simple retainer is used to maintain the threaded rod to the base of the light fixture or to retain releasable connectors on the rod, where the releasable connectors are used to attach the rod to the base of the light fixture.

Abstract: A lighting fixture has a housing with a latching surface, a frame coupled to the housing and having a slot, a refractor or lens supported by the frame, and a latching member coupled to the frame. The latching member includes a main flexing portion, a lead portion extending from one end of the main flexing portion and received in the slot of the frame, and a cam portion extending from an opposite end of the main flexing portion. The latching member moves between a released position with the latching member disengaged from the latching surface of the housing, and a latched position with the latching member engaged with the latching surface of the housing.

Abstract: In a preferred embodiment, a lighting fixture lens retainer for a lighting fixture of the type having a generally horizontally extending first lens held in upper and lower fixture members by insertion of first and second mounting flanges formed, respectively, along upper and lower edges of the first lens inserted into first and second mounting grooves formed, respectively, along the upper and lower fixture members, the lighting fixture lens retainer comprising: a retaining member being disposed within the lighting fixture and being movable between a first, open position in which the retaining member is spaced apart from an inner surface of the first lens and a second, securing position in which the retaining member bears against the inner surface of the lens in such manner as to secure the first mounting flange in the first mounting groove.

Abstract: A flashlight having a power source and an LED positioned in a housing. A switch is provided on the housing to activate the light source, and a magnet is affixed to the flashlight to allow the flashlight to be mounted to metal surfaces.

Abstract: A lamp apparatus or a vehicle headlamp having first and second lamp units that are provided adjacent to each other in the lateral direction so as to tilt in a lamp body by first and second aiming mechanisms, respectively. First supporting portions for supporting a fulcrum pin and aiming screws of the fast aiming mechanism are provided behind the first lamp unit in the lamp body, and second supporting portions for supporting a fulcrum pin and aiming screws of the second aiming mechanism are provided behind the second lamp unit in the lamp body; and at least one of the plurality of first supporting portions and at least one of the plurality of second supporting portions are provided so as to overlap each other in a direction in which the lamp units are disposed when the headlamp is viewed from front.

Abstract: An emergency vehicle signal device mounted in the interior of a vehicle which, when activated, is visible outside the vehicle, but which is not readily apparent outside the vehicle when not in operation. The signal device does not interfere with the operation of the vehicle when activated, and does not affect the aerodynamics, handling, or overhead clearance of the vehicle.

Abstract: A method and system are provided that efficiently compound high levels of inorganic filler, processing fluid and silicone polymer at a commercial rate into homogeneous filled and devolatilized silicone compositions. In the method, filled silicone compositions are compounded by compounding a filler, processing fluid and silicone polymer in a first compounding apparatus to produce a first dispersed composition and simultaneously compounding a filler, processing fluid and silicone polymer in a second compounding apparatus that shares a common extruder shaft with the first compounding apparatus to produce a second dispersed composition. The system comprises a first compounding apparatus and a sequential second compounding apparatus that shares a common shaft with the first compounding apparatus.

Abstract: A cover assembly is disclosed for a paint can for use with automatic stirring equipment. The paint can includes a tubular cylindrical sidewall and an open top. The cover assembly has a lid dimensioned to overlie the open top of the paint can, and a spout is formed on the lid. A paint stirrer is rotatably mounted to the lid and at least one locking foot removably secures the lid to the paint can when the lid overlies the open top of the paint can. The lid includes a plurality of resilient tabs which engage the outer periphery of the paint can around the top of the paint can to center the lid relative to the paint can.

Abstract: The invention relates to a compact, powered butter maker including a drive housing, a cream container, a drive, and a dasher.

Abstract: Device and a process for generating a signal dependent upon a liquid film on a surface. The device includes one of a heating arrangement and a cooling arrangement for subjecting a portion of the liquid film to a temperature change, a temperature measuring arrangement for determining the temperature of the liquid film, the temperature measurement arrangement being capable of producing a signal, and a control and evaluation device for controlling one of the heating arrangement and the cooling arrangement and the temperature measuring arrangement. The process includes subjecting a portion of the liquid film to a temperature change using one of a heating and a cooling arrangement, measuring a temperature of the portion using a temperature measuring arrangement, assigning a value which corresponds to a thickness of the liquid film to the temperature change using an evaluation device, and producing a signal.

Abstract: An apparatus for measuring thermomechanical properties of a photo-sensitive material sample during exposure of the sample material to a light source includes a sample holder having a sample support positionable in a sample holding area of the sample holder for holding the photo-sensitive material sample, a probe disposable relative to the sample support for measuring the thermomechanical properties of the photo-sensitive material sample, a temperature control unit having a cavity for receiving the sample holder and for maintaining the sample holder within a selectively-controlled temperature range, and an illuminating assembly operatively arranged for directing a light signal onto the sample holder for illuminating the photo-sensitive material held on the sample holder.

Abstract: The invention concerns a temperature sensor including an optical fiber source (10, 30) for supplying an optical signal, a first fiber optic transmission line (12, 32) connected to the optical source, a sensitive optical fiber portion (14, 34) connected to the fiber optic transmission line, a second fiber optic transmission line (16, 36) connected to the sensitive portion of the optical fiber, and an optical detection and processing circuit (18, 38) connected to the second fiber optic transmission line for receiving and analysing the optical signal transmitted by the optical source and passing through the optical fiber, said sensor being characterised in that said sensitive optical fiber portion is mounted on a plane support and bent over a determined length (N1) and with a determined amplitude of curvature (A1).

Abstract: A sensor link is disclosed that simplifies connections between multiple temperature sensors positioned on a test board and a data logger that stores temperature information received from the temperature sensors while passing through the conveyor oven. In one embodiment, the sensor link includes multiple input ports for connecting to the temperature sensors. Conductors within the sensor link connect the multiple temperature sensors to an output port. In one aspect, a single cable extends between the sensor link and a data logger. The data logger stores temperature information received from the temperature sensors while the test board is passed through a conveyor oven. The sensor link can also have additional temperature sensors for providing additional temperature information about the conveyor oven. For example, an ambient temperature sensor may be positioned on the sensor link to provide the ambient temperature of the conveyor oven.

Abstract: A cooling oil circuit (D) circulates cooling oil over an x-ray tube absorbing its waste heat. A refrigeration circuit (E) then cools the cooling oil. A heat buffer (52) absorbing peak heat loads from the cooling fluid when the x-ray tube is generating x-rays. Valves (58, 60) regulate a relative amount of cooling oil entering the heat buffer to increase heat transfer efficiency. The heat buffer enables the system to handle peak heat loads with a smaller, more condensed refrigeration system, by absorbing heat during operation of the x-ray tube and releasing heat between operations.

Abstract: A sliding bearing bushing has a first end side, a second end side, an inwardly cylindrical second longitudinal portion which is calibrated by a material compression and adjoins the second end side, a substantially hollow conical first longitudinal portion which adjoins the first end side, and a third longitudinal portion which is arranged between the first and second longitudinal portions, the third longitudinal portion transferring bend-free from a contour of the second longitudinal portion into a continuous curvature so that, in a contour of the cylindrical portion straight lines located parallel to a longitudinal axis of the sliding bearing bushing are tangents to a curvature, and at least in a region of the tangents at the curvature the material of the sliding bearing bushing is compressed by calibration substantially identically strong as in the cylindrical longitudinal portion.

Abstract: An aluminum thrust washer that has a wrought aluminum matrix that includes from 2 to 20 weight percent silicon, 0.1 to 4 weight percent of copper, with the remainder pure aluminum. The aluminum thrust washer is formed of a mono-metal structure without a backing layer. The wrought aluminum matrix has mechanical properties such that the aluminum matrix wears away, leaving silicon particles exposed at a thrust face of the washer, such that the density of silicon particles is continually increasing as the thrust washer is utilized.

Abstract: A removable bearing for mounting on a slot of a supporting wall is disclosed. The removable bearing includes a bearing member having a bore for receiving a rotatable shaft. The bearing also includes a handle fixedly attached to the bearing member. Attached to the handle is a latching member for engaging a corresponding aperture in the supporting wall when mounting the removable bearing thereon. The handle has an engagement portion that allows tool engagement for moving the handle away from the supporting wall to disengage the latching member when removing the bearing from the slot.

Abstract: A ball bearing assembly has an outer ring and an inner ring defining the respective outer and inner races, and a plurality of balls separated on the circumference by a cage ring. The inner ring is split into a loaded half and a non-loaded half. The cage lands on the inner ring halves support the cage ring. An annular groove having a non-rectangular cross-section is disposed at the inner ring bore and at the split face. A plurality of radial grooves extend in the split face of one inner ring half to form radial passages between the annular groove and the inner race for directing oil under centrifugal forces collected in the annular groove, into the inner race. Each radial passage has an aperture in the annular groove located in an intermediate section thereof so that the bottom section of the annular groove acts as a reservoir to feed all the radial passages as well as provide a longer residence time for the oil on loaded inner ring surfaces.

Abstract: The invention is directed to techniques for controlling access to an optical interface using a shutter that moves away (e.g., sideways) from the optical interface when exposing the optical interface. Such movement away form the optical interface avoids pushing dirt and debris toward the optical interface when the shutter exposes the optical interface to form an optical connection. Such operation keeps the optical interface clean as well as prevents light from inadvertently escaping from the optical interface that could otherwise cause eye injury (e.g., due to the light intensity). One arrangement is directed to an optical connection system having a first optical connector and a second optical connector.

Abstract: The present invention is a fiber optic connection system including a fiber optic plug adapted to mate and lock with a fiber optic connector. The plug includes a housing and mated insert that cooperate to position and secure the plug pre-assemblies with respect to the plug and to structurally affix the cable strengthener to the plug.

Abstract: An optical fiber connector adapter has a sensing mechanism for determining when the adapter has a connector plug therein and when the adapter is vacant or empty. The sensing mechanism creates an indication of the state of the adapter which is transmitted to a control circuit. The control circuit responds to the indication by activating or de-activating a laser, for example, which applies optical energy to the adapter. The laser is deactivated when the adapter has no connector plug therein and is activated when there is a connector plug in place in the adapter. In two of the embodiments of the invention, the sensing mechanism signals the impending insertion or withdrawal of the connector plug relative to the adapter.