Very high quality channel for multipathway optical rotary joints
US7650054B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 24, 2008 |
| Grant date | Jan 19, 2010 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 24, 2028 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG02B27/642
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
The present invention relates to the field of rotary joints, or similar devices, more specifically to optical rotary joints. Embodiments of the invention are directed to a multipathway optical rotary joint, comprising a stationary plane, a moving plane rotatable about a reference axis of rotation and a Dove prism, rotatably placed between the stationary plane and the moving plane. The assembly is configured so that when the moving plane rotates at a speed ω, the prism rotates at a speed ω/2. The optical pathways are arranged so as to pass through the prism. The Dove prism includes a central optical channel passing an optical wave without undergoing deviation, the axis of the channel being substantially coaxial with the reference axis of rotation. An optical pathway is furthermore arranged in the joint so as to pass through the joint, following an axis substantially coinciding with the reference axis of rotation.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.