In-line, two-pass, fiber optic rotary joint
US5588077A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | May 22, 1995 |
| Grant date | Dec 24, 1996 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 22, 2015 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG02B6/3582
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An especially compact optical rotary joint for use with fiber optic cables is set forth including three embodiments capable of transferring two data streams each carried on a separate optical fiber. The rotary joint is constructed with a stationary portion and a relatively rotating portion. The two optical fiber channels are arranged in-line along the same rotational axis. Isolation of one channel from the other is achieved through a novel application of gradient index rod lenses of suitable pitch. A pair of lenses is arranged adjacent each other on each side of the rotational interface and a second pair of axially aligned lenses is arranged outboard of the first pair. An optical signal from one of the outboard lenses can be directed to one of the other lenses depending on the pitch selection. Losses due to crosstalk or overlap of the signal paths is within acceptable limits. Both channels are bidirectional, i.e., each can carry signals in either direction.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.