Miscellaneous Patents (Class 385/147)
  • Patent number: 7477829
    Abstract: Slack cable storage box includes a base and a cover removably attachable to the base to provide an enclosure for a slack cable storage spool that may be part of the cover or removably attached to the base. The outer end face of the cover may be recessed for receipt of one or more interchangeable decorative faceplates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2009
    Assignee: Multilink, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven E. Kaplan
  • Patent number: 7477821
    Abstract: A sealing composition for a photonic crystal fiber which comprises a compound represented by the following general formula (I), a compound represented by the following general formula (II) and a photo-polymerization initiator: Tf1-(O)a—(CH2)b—(CF2)m—(CH2)b—(O)a-Tf1 (I) Tf2-(O)a—(CH2)b—(CF2)m—(CH2)b—(O)a-Tf2 (II) wherein a represents 0 or 1, b represents 0 or 1, m represents an integer of 4 to 12, Tf1 represents a glycidyl group, and Tf2 represents CH2?CH—C(O)—; and a method for producing an optical fiber comprising filling air holes with above sealing composition and polishing and end surface; and an optical fiber having air holes in the inside which is produced by the method. The above sealing composition can achieve a low refractive index, and also is excellent in the low viscosity and heat resistance, and exhibits good filling characteristics and good polishing processability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2009
    Assignees: Nagase Chemtex Corporation, Mitsubishi Cable Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Takafumi Iida, Masayoshi Hachiwaka
  • Patent number: 7471868
    Abstract: A telecommunications cable management system includes trough elements including a planar top surface and sides for cable routing and management. The trough elements are made from separate parts assembled together with a mating arrangement. The mating arrangement allows assembly of the system on site, such as by snapping the parts together. The trough elements are then assembled together to form the cable management system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: ADC Telecommunications, Inc.
    Inventors: Yilmaz Bayazit, Derek Sayres, Tom Tinucci, David E. Rapp
  • Patent number: 7470070
    Abstract: A first wall is installed on a bottom portion of a housing along an outer peripheral thereof orthogonally to the bottom portion. A second wall is installed opposite to the first wall at a predetermined interval. Between the first wall and the second wall, a first rib parallel with the bottom portion for connecting the first wall and second wall is installed. Further, under the first rib, second ribs orthogonal to the bottom portion for connecting the first wall, second wall, and first rib are installed at fixed intervals. Furthermore, above the first rib, third ribs orthogonal to the bottom portion having the same height as that of the first wall and second wall for connecting the first wall and second wall are arranged so as to be shifted in position from the second ribs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignees: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba, Toshiba Tec Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Takahiro Kojima
  • Patent number: 7469092
    Abstract: A diode laser spectroscopy gas sensing apparatus having a diode laser with a select lasing frequency, a pitch optic coupled to the diode laser with the pitch optic being operatively associated with a process chamber and oriented to project laser light along a projection beam through the process chamber. This embodiment additionally includes a catch optic in optical communication with the pitch optic to receive the laser light projected through the process chamber and an optical fiber optically coupled to the catch optic. In addition, the catch optic is operatively associated with a catch side alignment mechanism which provides for the alignment of the catch optic with respect to the projection beam to increase a quantity of laser light received by the catch optic from the pitch optic and coupled to the optical fiber and a detector sensitive to the select lasing frequency optically coupled to the optical fiber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2008
    Assignee: Zolo Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew D. Sappey, James Howell, Henrik Hofvander, Bernard Patrick Masterson
  • Patent number: 7466894
    Abstract: A power supply monitoring system generates a monitor signal having information on more than one aspect of the power supply output. In one example embodiment, the monitor signal may be implemented as a square wave in which the duty cycle is proportional to output current, the peak amplitude is proportional to output voltage, and the average value is equal to output power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2008
    Assignee: Semiconductor Components Industries, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Tod F. Schiff, Rodney J. Goldhammer, Gabor T. Reizik
  • Patent number: 7466896
    Abstract: A method of making a photonic fabric display includes wrapping photonic fibers with a yarn, weaving the wrapped photonic fibers to form a fabric, printing a pattern on the fabric, surface treating the fabric, and coupling the photonic fibers with a light source to form a photonic fabric display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2008
    Assignee: The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
    Inventors: Xiaoming Tao, Xiaoyin Cheng, Jianming Yu, Lijie Liu, Wang-wah Wong, Wing-kwong Tam
  • Patent number: 7466895
    Abstract: A method of displaying, selecting and magnifying multiple micro-images, and a display device and portable terminal using the method. A display device for displaying, selecting and magnifying multiple micro-images, includes: a concave reflector having a radius of curvature and a focal distance; multiple display panels, arranged within the focal distance, displaying the multiple micro-images toward the concave reflector; and a corner-image interrupter, interposed between the multiple display panels and the concave reflector, interrupting a distorted portion of a magnified image generated when one of the micro-images displayed on a display panel is reflected by corners of the concave reflector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2008
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Sang-goog Lee
  • Patent number: 7463814
    Abstract: At least one exemplary embodiment is directed to a method for fabricating a three-dimensional photonic crystal. In the method for fabricating the three-dimensional photonic crystal, a plurality of layers can be defined as one unit, and the total thickness of the one unit can be controlled such that an average layer-thickness of the plurality of layers in the one unit is about equal to the ideal layer-thickness so that a photonic band-gap occurs in a desired wavelength region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2008
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Akinari Takagi, Hikaru Hoshi, Kiyokatsu Ikemoto, Kazuya Nobayashi
  • Patent number: 7463813
    Abstract: A medical examination system includes a medical examination device and a control device to operate the medical examination device. The control device transmits signals including control signals accompanied by an identification code. The examination device is provided with a verifier to verify the identification code and is arranged to accept the corresponding control signals when the identification code is correct, and to reject the corresponding control signals when the identification code is not correct. The examination system further automatically communicates the identification code between the control device and the examination device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2008
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.
    Inventor: Paul Zwart
  • Patent number: 7460760
    Abstract: Provided are an optical waveguide master and a method of manufacturing the same, which has a 90° optical path change structure and an integrated optical waveguide with a 45° inclined reflection surface. The optical waveguide with the inclined reflection surface manufactured using the optical waveguide master facilitates coupling between the active optical electronic device and the waveguide, thereby perfectly overcoming difficulty in conventional mass production. The optical waveguide makes it possible to accomplish connection between various optical devices and optical circuits, and becomes source technology of an optical printed circuit board (PCB) and a system on package (SOP) in the future.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2008
    Assignee: Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute
    Inventors: In Kui Cho, Woo Jin Lee, Seung Ho Ahn, Sang Pil Han
  • Patent number: 7460751
    Abstract: A lighting and/or signalling device, in particular for a motor vehicle, comprising at least one light source emitting light rays and at least one optical guide in which the light beam spreads, the at least one optical guide comprising at at least one of its ends an input face coupling the at least one optical guide and the at least one light source, a first surface forming an output face for the light beam, and a second surface, in particular remote from the output face, forming a face for reflection of the light rays, such that the at least one optical guide has at least one bend, the at least one optical guide in the region of the at least one bend having at least one corner protruding toward the outside of the at least one bend and bevelled by having two facets in order to send back the incident rays into the at least one optical guide.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2008
    Assignee: Valeo Vision
    Inventor: Carlos Gomez Ruiz
  • Patent number: 7446868
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method and apparatus for detecting defects in a semiconductor or silicon structure at room temperature, and in an efficient time, using photoluminescence. The invention employs the use of a high intensity beam of light preferably having a spot size between 0.1 mm 0.5 microns and a peak or average power density of 104-109 w/cm2 with a view to generating a high concentration of charge carriers, which charge characters detect defects in a semiconductor by interacting with same. These defects are visible by producing a photoluminescence image of the semiconductor. Several wavelengths may be selected to identify defects at a selective depth as well as confocal optics may be used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2008
    Assignee: Nanometrics Incorporated
    Inventors: Victor Higgs, Ian Mayes, Freddie Yun Heng Chin, Michael Sweeney
  • Patent number: 7447416
    Abstract: A light emitting assembly, a backlight unit, and a display are provided. The light emitting assembly includes: light emitting modules, wherein the light emitting modules include: a substrate having an electrical connecting portion; and a plurality of light emitting units arranged on the substrate, and wherein the light emitting modules can be assembled using the electrical connecting portion. The light emitting assembly can be assembled using the light emitting modules comprised of independent blocks and thus, can be freely used regardless of the size of the display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2008
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Il-yong Jung, Tae-hee Cho, Jong-min Wang, Ji-whan Noh, Su-gun Kim, Ki-burn Seong
  • Patent number: 7444059
    Abstract: A method for generating feedback signal in a device includes steps of receiving user input, and setting resolution of the device and media types of the television signals according to the user input; tuning a channel according to the user input to receive channel signals; decoding the channel signals; counting a period; detecting whether the device receives television signals; detecting whether an interrupt instruction is received if the device does not receive the television signals; generating a feedback signal according to the interrupt instruction if the interrupt instruction is received, and transmitting the feedback signal to a media server if the interrupt instruction is received.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2008
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Meng-Yueh Lin, Hung-Chang Lin, Cheng-Hui Chen, Han-Tzung Lin, Jun-Ming Chen
  • Patent number: 7444060
    Abstract: A liquid ejecting apparatus which includes a plurality of transport belts, upstream and downstream liquid ejecting units that include a plurality of liquid ejecting heads which are arranged at predetermined intervals in a direction orthogonal to the direction that the printing medium is transported through the apparatus, a maintenance unit that is provided between the transport belts, and a positioning unit that establishes the relative position between the upstream liquid ejecting unit, the upstream transport unit, the downstream liquid ejecting unit, and the downstream transport unit by moving components of the upstream liquid ejecting unit, the upstream transport unit, the downstream liquid ejecting unit, and the downstream transport unit in a direction that is orthogonal to the transport direction such that the liquid ejecting heads of the upstream and downstream liquid ejecting units face the maintenance unit during a maintenance operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2008
    Assignee: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventor: Kaneo Yoda
  • Patent number: 7435010
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2008
    Assignee: The Johns Hopkins University
    Inventors: Leo R. Gauthier, Jr., James E. McDonald, Louis A. Mattes
  • Patent number: 7437051
    Abstract: A secure communication channel is established between a portable computing device and a fixed public network outlet. Infrared beaming is employed wherein the IR beam is confined to an optical fiber placed between the IR beaming ports of the portable device and the fixed outlet. A portable computing device such as a PDA or a laptop PC has an infrared beaming port capable of bidirectional serial communication. A fiber optic system includes an optical fiber, a retractable spool for retaining the optical fiber, a fiber mount for mounting a first end of the optical fiber in alignment with the infrared beaming port of the portable computing device, and a terminator at a second end of the optical fiber. A public network outlet is provided in a fixed location and has an infrared data port in communication with an optical fiber connector adapted to receive the terminator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2008
    Assignee: Sprint Communications Company L.P.
    Inventors: Fred S. Cook, Mark L. Jones
  • Patent number: 7437052
    Abstract: A line combination includes at least two parallel flexible lines, which connect a connector fixed in place locally or on a machine with a moveable machine part, and can be displaced axially relative to one another in the combination. The term “lines” covers cables and hoses of all types. Connecting elements are attached or molded onto the lines, which produce the connection between the lines and permit only axial relative movements between adjacent lines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2008
    Assignee: ekd gelenkrohr GmbH
    Inventor: Ernst Klein
  • Patent number: 7437048
    Abstract: A cable management system is provided that is configured to be located between adjacent equipment racks, while being vertically oriented to extend upward along a narrow space between the adjacent equipment racks. The cable management system comprises a main panel extending along a vertical longitudinal axis, the main panel having a series of module cutouts provided therein and oriented to extend along the longitudinal axis. The system further includes inter-bay functional modules secured in at least two of the module cutouts. The inter-bay functional modules include at least two of a fiber spool module, a patch panel module and a dispersion compensation module. The main panel includes a front wall having the module cutouts formed therein. The front wall is integrally joined with side flanges extending rearward therefrom to form a channel cross-section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2008
    Assignee: Tellabs Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel Farrell, Jerome D. Pavlick, Philip T. Brinkerhoff
  • Patent number: 7433573
    Abstract: The invention relates to a distance measuring device and a suitable method for determining a distance which provides for continuous determination of the distance which can therefore also be made discrete and in addition is easy to handle and provides for a large variety of applications. The distance measuring device comprises analytical electronics and a sensor facility, which comprises at least one coupling probe for feeding an emitted signal into a conducting structure with reflection body. Moreover, the conducting structure comprises a feeding block with a feeding area connecting an HF transceiver via a wave guide with dielectric support system to the coupling probe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2008
    Assignee: Astyx GmbH
    Inventor: Günther Trummer
  • Publication number: 20080240668
    Abstract: An integrator unit for integrating an incoming light beam for a uniform distribution of illumination comprises an inner cylinder fixedly equipped with a rod integrator, an outer cylinder in which the inner cylinder is coaxially received for axial movement and axial adjustment members which comprises a circumferential groove spatially squared to a center axis of the inner cylinder and a radial access bore formed in the outer cylinder. A round shaped position adjustment tool has an end pin on a round end face thereof in a position off center from an axis of rotation of the position adjusting tool. The position adjusting tool is inserted in the radial access bore to put the end pin in the circumferential groove and turned in the radial access bore so as thereby to move the inner cylinder axially back and forth.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2008
    Publication date: October 2, 2008
    Applicant: FUJINON CORPORATION
    Inventor: Yasuyuki MIYATA
  • Patent number: 7430357
    Abstract: A fiber optic cable includes multiple optical fibers extending from a low-pressure environment into a high-pressure environment. At a junction region, the optical fibers are substantially free of any coating, while the fibers include a coating in the low- and high-pressure regions. The fibers are metallized in the junction region, and an epoxy layer is bonded to the metallization. A protective, conductive housing is positioned around the cable. The fibers in the low-pressure region are coupled to communications electronics, and the pattern is repeated as needed to form a needed length of communication cable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2008
    Assignee: General Dynamics Advanced Information Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Matthew W. Holt, Frederick Paul Gehrke, George W. Walker, III
  • Patent number: 7430358
    Abstract: A backlit light display comprises a light guide panel, a prismatic film, an asymmetric top diffuser and an LCD. A linear light source is disposed along a side face of the light guide panel. Light from the linear light source is transmitted though the light guide panel where it is spread and uniformly output through a front face to the prismatic film. Light incident on the prismatic film is redirected more along a first direction than along a second direction. This light is directed more normal to the LCD. An asymmetric diffuser is applied between the prismatic film and the LCD panel to smear the periodic information from the prismatic film and eliminate the Moiré fringe pattern resulting from interference between the periodic structure of the prismatic film and the periodic arrangement of pixels in the LCD. The asymmetric diffuser is aligned with respect to the prismatic film such that it scatters and spreads light more in a second direction than the first direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2008
    Assignee: Wavefront Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Jun Qi, Joel Mikael Petersen, Christopher Chapman Rich
  • Patent number: 7430359
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to a electromechanical device that has an improved usable lifetime due to the presence of one or more channels that contain and deliver a lubricant material that can reduce the likelihood of stiction occurring between the various moving parts of the device. Embodiments of the present invention also generally include an enclosed device package, and a method of forming the enclosed device package, that has one or more lubricant containing and/or transporting channels that that deliver lubricant material to a device disposed within the enclosed device package. Each lubricant containing channel acts as a ready supply of “fresh” lubricant to prevent stiction from occurring between interacting components of the device disposed within the enclosed region of the device package. The ready supply of “fresh” lubricants may also be used to replenish damaged lubricants (worn-off, broken down, etc) at the contacting surfaces where stiction generally occurs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2008
    Assignee: Miradia, Inc.
    Inventors: Dongmin Chen, Spencer Worley
  • Patent number: 7429138
    Abstract: A plastic optical fiber (11) has a core (12) and a clad (13). The clad (13) is composed of an outer clad (14) and an inner clad (15). The refractive index in the core (12) gradually increases as the distance from the center thereof decreases. The refractive index in the inner clad (15) is equal to the minimum value of the refractive index in the core (12), and the refractive index in the outer clad (14) is smaller than that in the inner clad (15). For the purpose of decreasing the transmission loss between the plastic optical fiber (11) and a light emission device or the light receiving device, the diameter d1 of the core (12) and the outer diameter d2 of the inner clad (15) satisfy the following conditions; 100(?m)?d1?700(?m) 200(?m)?d1?1000(?m) d1<d2.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2008
    Assignee: FUJIFILM Corporation
    Inventors: Yoshisada Nakamura, Hiroki Takahashi, Takanori Sato, Kenji Matsumoto, Hiroyuki Hiiro
  • Patent number: 7428360
    Abstract: An optical waveguide environmental sensor is provided that is capable of detecting a target gas or liquid in the ambient environment in an advantageously short period of time. The waveguide is preferably in the form of an optical fiber having a cladding that contains a photonic band gap structure which in turn envelopes a light conducting, hollow core portion. The cladding further includes at least one elongated side opening that preferably extends the entire length of the fiber and exposes said hollow core portion to the ambient environment, which provides broad and nearly immediate access of the core portion to gases and liquids in the ambient environment, thereby minimizing sensor response time. The ambient gases or liquids filling the hollow core portion and elongated opening function as a ridge and slab, respectively, of an optical ridge waveguide that effectively supports at least one bound optical mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2008
    Assignee: Corning Incorporated
    Inventors: Michael Thomas Gallagher, Karl William Koch, III, Ellen Marie Kosik Williams, James Andrew West
  • Patent number: 7428365
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to an angled optical fiber cleaver that is used to cleave optical fibers prior to mechanical splicing and that provides a desired optical fiber endface angle. More specifically, the present invention relates to an angled optical fiber cleaver that incorporates a novel retention and rotation clamp assembly that successively engages, securely holds, and rotates an optical fiber prior to cleaving, this rotation providing the desired optical fiber endface angle. Advantageously, the novel retention and rotation and clamp assembly of the present invention is actuated via a single linear button press/release, eliminating the cumbersome steps associated with conventional devices and methodologies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2008
    Assignee: Corning Cable Systems LLC
    Inventors: Jonathan Michael Brinson, Joshua Douglas Raker
  • Patent number: 7426322
    Abstract: Plasmons on a waveguide may deliver energy to photocatalyze a reaction. The waveguide or other energy carrier may be configured to carry electromagnetic energy and generate plasmon energy at one or more locations proximate to the waveguide, where the plasmon energy may react chemically with a medium or interaction material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2008
    Inventor: Roderick A. Hyde
  • Patent number: 7424198
    Abstract: A package structure and method of packaging for an interferometric modulator. A thin film material is deposited over an interferometric modulator and transparent substrate to encapsulate the interferometric modulator. A gap or cavity between the interferometric modulator and the thin film provides a space in which mechanical parts of the interferometric modulator may move. The gap is created by removal of a sacrificial layer that is deposited over the interferometric modulator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2008
    Assignee: IDC, LLC
    Inventors: Lauren Palmateer, William J. Cummings, Brian Gally, Mark Miles, Jeffrey B. Sampsell, Clarence Chui, Manish Kothari
  • Patent number: 7424199
    Abstract: A fiber tip fluid output device is provided for holding a fiber tip in an electromagnetic energy cutting apparatus and for directing water particles over a radiation delivery end of the fiber tip. The fiber tip fluid output device includes a generally cylindrical body having an outer surface, a proximal end, a distal end, and a lumen extending between the proximal end and the distal end. The lumen is sized and shaped to accommodate a fiber tip therethrough so that the fiber tip extends through the lumen from the proximal end to the distal end of the generally cylindrical body. The fiber tip fluid output device further includes a plurality of apertures extending around the generally cylindrical body, with each of the apertures of the plurality of apertures fluidly connecting the outer surface to the lumen. Fluid is mixed around the cylindrical body, before entering the lumen through the plurality of apertures for additional mixing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2008
    Assignee: Biolase Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Ioana M. Rizoiu, Jeffrey W. Jones
  • Patent number: 7424176
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for terminating and anchoring fiber optic connections are disclosed. One apparatus includes a sealed body enclosing a passage for one or more optical fibers terminating in connections proximate a first end of the sealed body, the sealed body having a diameter less than an internal diameter of an oilfield tubular, the sealed body having a second end adapted to sealingly engage and anchor an end of a fiber optic carrier conduit, the second end connecting the sealed body to the fiber optic carrier conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2008
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Michael Kension, Michael G. Gay, Robert Bucher, Mahmuda Afroz
  • Patent number: 7421166
    Abstract: A laser spark distribution and ignition system that reduces the high power optical requirements for use in a laser ignition and distribution system allowing for the use of optical fibers for delivering the low peak energy pumping pulses to a laser amplifier or laser oscillator. An optical distributor distributes and delivers optical pumping energy from an optical pumping source to multiple combustion chambers incorporating laser oscillators or laser amplifiers for inducing a laser spark within a combustion chamber. The optical distributor preferably includes a single rotating mirror or lens which deflects the optical pumping energy from the axis of rotation and into a plurality of distinct optical fibers each connected to a respective laser media or amplifier coupled to an associated combustion chamber. The laser spark generators preferably produce a high peak power laser spark, from a single low power pulse.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2008
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the United States Department of Energy
    Inventors: Steven Woodruff, Dustin L. McIntyre
  • Patent number: 7421184
    Abstract: A light pipe assembly is provided for use with small form factor style connectors of a dual row, stacked configuration. The assembly includes two pairs of light pipes, each of which is provided with integrated support members. The support members include members that engage opening disposed on the face of the connector, and the pairs of pipes are arranged so that one pair is supported within the other pair of pipes in a nested type of arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2008
    Assignee: Molex Incorporated
    Inventor: Jerry A. Long
  • Patent number: 7415187
    Abstract: The present invention is to provide an optical module that installs a laser diode and a Peltier device, and to provide a method for manufacturing the optical module. The invention may relax the restriction of the solder used in the assembly thereof and may prevent the thermoelectric device from degrading the performance and the reliability thereof. The laser module includes a base, the thermoelectric device, and the carrier. The thermoelectric device is fixed to the base with a first solder, while the carrier is fixed to the thermoelectric device with a second solder whose melting point is smaller than the melting point of the first solder. When the first solder is melted to fix the thermoelectric device, the second solder is also melted to fix the carrier on the thermoelectric device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2008
    Assignee: Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Hirotaka Oomori, Masaki Migita
  • Patent number: 7415186
    Abstract: A method is provided for visual inspection of an array of interferometric modulators in various driven states. This method may include driving multiple columns or rows of interferometric modulators via a single test pad or test lead, and then observing the array for discrepancies between the expected optical output and the actual optical output of the array. This method may particularly include, for example, driving a set of non-adjacent rows or columns to a state different from the intervening rows or columns, and then observing the optical output of the array.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2008
    Assignee: IDC, LLC
    Inventors: William J. Cummings, Brian J. Gally
  • Publication number: 20080192779
    Abstract: A surface emitting laser comprises an underlayer, an active layer formed on the underlayer, a slab layer formed on the active layer and having a photonic crystal structure optically combined with the active layer, and a metal thin film formed on the slab layer and having a periodic fine structure; and enabling taking-out of the light beam propagating in a layer-plane direction in the slab layer through the metal thin film.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2008
    Publication date: August 14, 2008
    Applicant: CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Mitsuhiro Ikuta
  • Patent number: 7412127
    Abstract: We introduce a mechanically tunable photonic crystal structure consisting of coupled photonic crystal slabs. Using both analytic theory, and first-principles finite-difference time-domain simulations, we demonstrate that the transmission and reflection coefficients for light normally incident upon such structures can be highly sensitive to nano-scale variations in the spacing between the slabs. Moreover, by specifically configuring the photonic crystal structures, the high sensitivity can be preserved in spite of significant fabrication-related disorders. We expect such a structure to play important roles in micro-mechanically tunable optical sensors and filters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2008
    Assignee: The Board of Trustees of the Leland Stanford Junior University
    Inventors: Wonjoo Suh, Mehmet Fatih Yanik, Olav Solgaard, Shanhui Fan
  • Patent number: 7409131
    Abstract: An all-optical logic gates comprises a nonlinear element such as an optical resonator configured to receive optical input signals, at least one of which is amplitude-modulated to include data. The nonlinear element is configured in relation to the carrier frequency of the optical input signals to perform a logic operation based on the resonant frequency of the nonlinear element in relation to the carrier frequency. Based on the optical input signals, the nonlinear element generates an optical output signal having a binary logic level. A combining medium can be used to combine the optical input signals for discrimination by the nonlinear element to generate the optical output signal. Various embodiments include all-optical AND, NOT, NAND, NOR, OR, XOR, and XNOR gates and memory latch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2008
    Assignee: Coveytech, LLC
    Inventor: John Luther Covey
  • Patent number: 7406217
    Abstract: Plasmons on a waveguide may deliver energy to photocatalyze a reaction. The waveguide or other energy carrier may be configured to carry electromagnetic energy and generate plasmon energy at one or more locations proximate to the waveguide, where the plasmon energy may react chemically with a medium or interaction material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2008
    Inventor: Roderick A. Hyde
  • Patent number: 7406247
    Abstract: Devices, systems and methods for thermal testing of optoelectronic modules are disclosed. The device includes a frame member, a thermoelectric cooler, a plate in thermal contact with the DUT, a heat sink in thermal contact with the frame, and a metallic clip for attaching the thermal testing device to the module (DUT). The clip secures the thermoelectric cooler to the DUT. The method includes the steps of providing a testing apparatus having a printed circuit board with a test circuit formed thereon. The test board also has an electrical interface disposed in electrical communication with the test circuit, and a thermal testing assembly. A temporary electrical connection is formed between the DUT device and the interface. The thermal testing assembly is used to maintain a test temperature of the DUT device. A data stream is transmitted through the DUT device and then evaluated for adherence to a defined specification.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2008
    Assignee: Finisar Corporation
    Inventors: Samantha R. Bench, John C. Dirkson, Darin James Douma
  • Patent number: 7406246
    Abstract: An apparatus for aligning an optical element of an optical actuator. The optical actuator moves a guide between a retracted and an extended position relative to an actuator body. The actuator body has a channel, or through-opening, in which the mirror guide moves. In one embodiment, the channel has a two flat surfaces that form a portion of a v-groove in the channel. In the extended position, the guide contacts a stop pin, or stopper, and the two flat surfaces in the through-opening, thereby holding the guide in a position defined by the line of contact between the stop pin and an angled surface of the guide and a pair of parallel contact lines where the guide contacts the two flat surfaces in the through-opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2008
    Assignee: Neptec Optical Solutions, Inc.
    Inventor: John Carberry
  • Patent number: 7406241
    Abstract: Methods and devices for the installation of a fiber optic cable to a house or other building structure are provided. The method may include identifying a preferred location of a customer through an indication left by the customer either on the interior side or exterior side of a wall, forming a through opening in the wall near or at the preferred location, and installing the in-wall termination device in the opening. The in-wall termination device may include a wall plate for attaching to an interior surface of the wall. The wall plate includes one or more connectors for receiving ends of cables extending from the exterior and connecting those cables to other cables extending through the interior of the building structure. The method may allow for the installation of the cable without requiring the presence of the customer or requiring access to the interior of the building structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2008
    Assignees: Verizon Laboratories Inc., Verizon New England Inc.
    Inventors: Robert E. Opaluch, James P. Dacey
  • Patent number: 7406243
    Abstract: An optical fiber array substrate 11 has, in one surface thereof, eight V-grooves 12 for securing eight optical fibers 14 aligned in parallel to each other, and V-shaped side grooves 13 formed outside of the respective outermost V-grooves 12 located at the opposite sides of the substrate 11. The apexes of the outside ridges 12c and 12d defining the outermost V-grooves 12 are at the same height as the apexes of the inside ridges 12a and, the height of the bottom 13a of the side groove 13 is lower than that of a contact point 12e between the ridge line of the V-groove 12 and optical fiber 14.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2008
    Assignee: Nippon Electric Glass Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hirokazu Takeuchi, Nobuo Funabiki, Kazuya Saito
  • Patent number: 7406223
    Abstract: The present invention provides an optical element capable of preventing a ghost in the use for a sensor such as a CCD or CMOS. In the optical element including an optical function surface of high surface accuracy and a flange formed around the surface, the optical function surface having an optical surface diameter somewhat larger than an effective diameter in order to secure high surface accuracy for the effective diameter, a parting diameter of a molding die is made larger than the optical surface diameter and a parting position is disposed outside the optical surface diameter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2008
    Assignee: Fujinon Corporation
    Inventor: Takashi Ito
  • Patent number: 7397982
    Abstract: The invention relates to a reflector arrangement comprising a reflector and a light guide. It is characterized in that the use of film hinges permits simpler and lower-cost assembly than has heretofore been possible with comparable reflector arrangements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2008
    Assignee: Osram Opto Semiconductors GmbH
    Inventors: Michael Sailer, Mario Wanninger
  • Patent number: 7394957
    Abstract: A plurality of fiberoptic strands is provided. Each fiberoptic strand has a free end. A plurality of groups is provided. Each group is formed of a plurality fiberoptic strands. A plurality of beads is provided. Each bead has a generally cylindrical configuration. Each bead has an exterior diameter, an interior diameter and an axial length. The beads have exterior surfaces. The exterior surfaces are of different colors. In this manner intended functions are designated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2008
    Inventor: Shirley Craig
  • Patent number: 7391955
    Abstract: An optical element including a first groove extending from first end of the outer peripheral face in an optical axis direction towards second end, and a second groove connected to the first groove and extending from second end of the outer peripheral face in the optical axis direction towards first end; and a position-adjusting concave part which is between the first and second grooves and adjusts positions by adjusting member in the optical axis direction, a revolving direction about the optical axis, a width direction of first and second grooves, which is orthogonal to the optical axis, and in a synthesized direction that is a combination of at least two of those directions, wherein the optical element is molded by using only a first molding die for molding a part on the first groove side and a second molding die for molding a part on the second groove side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2008
    Assignee: Enplas Corporation
    Inventor: Hisayoshi Hayashi
  • Patent number: 7382949
    Abstract: A device, system and method for transmitting electro-magnetic radiation between at least two separate fibers (as well as for imaging a sample) are provided. For example, a first optical fiber and a second optical fiber may be provided, such that the first and/or second fibers is/are rotatable. At least one first optical arrangement may also be included which communicates with at least one end of the first optical fiber and/or the second optical fiber. Further, at least one second arrangement may be included which is configured to control a position of the optical arrangement to align longitudinal axes of the first and the second optical fibers at least at the ends thereof. In addition, at least one third arrangement can be provided which is adapted to rotate the first and/or second optical fibers at a rate that is greater than 40 revolutions per second.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2008
    Assignee: The General Hospital Corporation
    Inventors: Brett Eugene Bouma, Guillermo J. Tearney, Milen Shishkov
  • Patent number: 7382961
    Abstract: A telecommunications system includes a first fiber management apparatus having a rear-trough architecture, a second fiber management apparatus having a front-access architecture, and a transition panel interposed between the first and second fiber management apparatuses, to transition fibers from the rear-trough architecture of the first fiber management apparatus to the front-access architecture of the second fiber management apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2008
    Assignee: Telect Inc.
    Inventors: Xin Xin, James Patrick Jenkins