Fiber optic connector microlens with self-aligning optical fiber cavity
US8061904B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 24, 2010 |
| Grant date | Nov 22, 2011 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 24, 2030 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG02B6/322
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A fiber optical connector microlens is provided with a self-aligning optical fiber cavity. The microlens includes a convex first lens surface and a second lens surface. A fiber alignment cavity is integrally formed with the second lens surface to accept an optical fiber core. A lens body is interposed between the first and second lens surfaces, having a cross-sectional area with a lens center axis, and the fiber alignment cavity is aligned with the lens center axis. In a first aspect, the fiber alignment cavity penetrates the lens second surface. In a second aspect, an integrally formed cradle with a cradle surface extends from the lens second surface, and a channel is formed in the cradle surface, with a center axis aligned with the lens center axis. The fiber alignment cavity includes a bridge covering a portion of the channel.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.