Gradient-index (GRIN) lens fabrication employing laser pulse width duration control, and related components, systems, and methods
US8916072B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 31, 2012 |
| Grant date | Dec 23, 2014 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 24, 2033 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB23K2103/50
- WIPO fieldMachine tools
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Gradient-index (GRIN) lens fabrication employing laser pulse width duration control, and related components, systems, and methods are disclosed. GRIN lenses can be fabricated from GRIN rods by controlling the pulse width emission duration of a laser beam emitted by a laser to laser cut the GRIN rod, as the GRIN rod is disposed in rotational relation to the laser beam. Controlling laser pulse width emission duration can prevent or reduce heat accumulation in the GRIN rod during GRIN lens fabrication. It is desired that the end faces of GRIN lenses are planar to facilitate light collimation, easy bonding or fusing of the GRIN lens to optical fibers to reduce optical losses, polishing to avoid spherical aberrations, and/or cleaning the end faces when disposed in a fiber optic connector, as non-limiting examples.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.