Light-diffusing device for an optical fiber, methods of producing and using same, and apparatus for diffusing light from an optical fiber
US5946441A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 17, 1997 |
| Grant date | Aug 31, 1999 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 17, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S385/902
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A diffusing tip is provided for diffusing light from a light-emitting end of an optical fiber in a radial distribution pattern relative to the axis of the tip and along a length of the tip. The tip has an inner core and an outer covering which define a light guide. The outer covering is modified on its interior surface adjacent to the core such that light transmitted down the light guide is removed from the core upon encountering a surface modification on the interior surface. The light so removed is transmitted to the outer surface along the length of the tip, where it can be used to irradiate a selected object or material. The diffusing tip preferably provides light in a substantially uniform intensity distribution for the substantially uniform irradiation of a selected object or material.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.