Optical coupling system
US6059462A · kind A · utility
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 24, 1998 |
| Grant date | May 9, 2000 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 24, 2018 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG02B6/32
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
The present invention relates to a coupling element for coupling between optical elements, for instance a ferrule encased fiber end and a lens, two lenses, or filter and lens assemblies, which provides a reliable joint with a determined spacing and angular orientation between them if needed. Advantageously, the coupling in accordance with the present invention does not obscure optical transmission through the coupling with an epoxy layer. A stand off element is provided which has opposite reference surfaces for joining the end faces of the optical elements and a central aperture, slot or equivalent open area for light transmission. In use the open area is aligned, for example with the fiber end and the desired port in the lens. Adhesive connection can be provided between the opposite surfaces of the stand off element and the coupling end faces of the optical elements. No epoxy is applied over the open area. Other securing methods such as external securing elements can be used. Alignment is established by the planar surfaces of the stand off element. The separation between elements can be accurately established by selecting the desired thickness between faces of the stand off elemen…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.