Snap-in proximal connector for mounting an optic fiber element into a light source system
US6065882A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 5, 1998 |
| Grant date | May 23, 2000 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 5, 2018 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG02B6/3846
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A proximal connector includes a stainless steel, cone-shaped ferrule enclosing a proximal end of the optic fiber element. The ferrule is inserted within a matching aperture of a receiving block, which is also made of stainless steel. The matching shapes of the ferrule and the aperture of the receiving block ensure effective heat transfer from the ferrule into the receiving block. The receiving block may be provided with cooling vanes, and air may be circulated over the cooling vanes, to dissipate heat transferred to the receiving block from the connector. Both ferrule and the aperture are axially symmetric such that any rotation of the proximal connector while inserted into the receiving block does not change the location of the entrance aperture of the optic fiber element. The proximal connector also includes a case having an indented ring. A ball plunger biasing mechanism is mounted within the aperture of the receiving block and is positioned to engage the indented ring only while the proximal connector is fully and securely inserted within the aperture. The plunger prevents accidental removal of the proximal connector while also providing a biasing force for ensuring solid conta…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.