Zero force socket for laser / photodiode alignment
US7686521B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 8, 2004 |
| Grant date | Mar 30, 2010 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 1, 2028 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH01R12/853
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
The present invention relates to the use of zero force sockets to provide power to an optical device, such as a laser diode or photodiode, during active alignment of the optical device. The zero force sockets can be repeatedly changed between an open position for insertion and removal of optical device leads with minimal drag and a closed position for securing and providing power to the optical device leads. A pneumatically driven air cylinder can be used to open and/or close the zero force sockets. Devices for securing the optical device leads in place include, for example, lead clamps, which close upon conductive sleeves into which the optical device leads have been inserted, and conductive leaf springs, which close (when a pneumatic plunger is withdrawn) upon the laser diode leads, securing them in place and providing a conductive pathway.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.