Fiberoptic lightguide and method of manufacture
US10429564B2 · kind B2 · utility
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15References
6Claims
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Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 7, 2015 |
| Grant date | Oct 1, 2019 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 9, 2036 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG02B6/4476
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A flexible lightguide having at least one fused fiberoptic end secured within an end fitting with a layer of cushioning material sandwiched between the fused fiberoptic end and end fitting. The layer of cushioning material accommodates the differences in thermal expansion and contraction of the fused fiberoptic end and end fitting to prevent damage to the fused fiberoptic end such as during multiple cycling in an autoclave. As one example, the layer of cushioning material may be provided by wrapping the fused fiberoptic end with PTFE tape, thread seal tape, or the like.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.