Notched fiber array illumination device
US5659643A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 23, 1995 |
| Grant date | Aug 19, 1997 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 23, 2015 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S385/901
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An optical fiber having a core is disclosed. A notch having first and second sides is formed in the fiber and extends into the core. At least the portion of the interior of the notch adjacent the first side has an index of refraction less than that of the core. Light travelling at a first angle to the fiber axis and striking the first side will be totally internally reflected if the first angle is greater than a predetermined angle. If the first angle is less than the predetermined angle, a portion of the light will enter the notch and emerge through the second surface making a second angle to the first surface, the second angle being greater than the first.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.