High precision fiberoptic alignment spring receptacle and fiberoptic probe
US5548674A · kind A · utility
Assignees
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | May 23, 1994 |
| Grant date | Aug 20, 1996 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 23, 2014 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG02B6/3891
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A fiberoptic receptacle including a housing having a central bore that is adapted foe holding a high precision cylindrical alignment spring. The central diameter of the cylindrical spring is less than the outer diameter of the ferrule of an optical fiber connector that is inserted therewithin, such that the ferrule is accurately and repeatably centrally aligned by the resilient force of the spring elements of the cylindrical spring. A cylindrical spring engagement method involves applying a longitudinal force to the wall of the cylindrical spring during the affixation of the spring within the receptacle bore. Due to the nature of the cylindrical spring, the longitudinal force is translated into an increased radial displacement of the spring element to enhance the alignment capability of the spring. A fiberoptic medical probe includes the cylindrical spring within the receptacle of the probe. Alternative embodiments of the medical probe permit air cooling of the probe to facilitate prolonged handheld use of the probe.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.