Plug-and-socket hub arrangement for mounting light pipe to receive light
US7334945B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 16, 2004 |
| Grant date | Feb 26, 2008 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 8, 2024 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG02B6/4292
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A hub arrangement for mounting light pipe to receive light includes a light pipe hub for mounting at least one light pipe, with a plug-and-socket arrangement. The plug-and-socket arrangement includes (i) a socket in the light pipe hub for receiving a plug, and (ii) a plug for mounting a light pipe end that is to receive light. A fore end of the plug is receivable within the socket. The plug has a channel for receiving the light pipe through an aft end of the plug. The hub arrangement may also include, if desired, a rod hub for mounting at least one thermally isolating, light-collection rod for receiving light from a light source. The hub arrangement allows easy and rapid coupling of light pipe to an illumination source, using a “plug-and-socket” feature. The hub arrangement may incorporate several safety features to prevent premature light pipe failure.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.