Optical fiber to laminate adapter
US5299273A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 12, 1992 |
| Grant date | Mar 29, 1994 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 12, 2012 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG02B6/3616
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An optical connector attached to an optical fiber embedded in a structure, such as a composite laminate part. The connector is attached by trimming the structure across the path of the fiber, exposing an end of the fiber that lies flush with the surface of the structure. The fiber end and the surrounding surface are then polished. The connector is placed in a micropositioner and the micropositioner is attached to the structure with the connector roughly in alignment with the fiber end. A light source is then placed at the other end of the fiber, which transmits light to the connector, and a light meter is attached to the connector. The micropositioner is adjusted to refine the alignment by moving the connector to a position where the light meter indicates a maximum intensity. When the light meter indicates a maximum intensity, the connector is secured in place on the structure using an adhesive. The micropositioner may be removed after the adhesive has hardened.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.