Optical fiber centering device
Abstract
Abstract A centering device, for holding an optical fiber along an axis, includes three sections of fiber receiving means, and a receiving member. The receiving member has a cylindrical recess, concentric with the axis, for holding the sections in assembly. The sections are substantially identical, each having a uniform cross-sectional configuration at right angles along a major portion of its length forming a boundary of fixed perimeter. One portion of the boundary of one section contacts another section. Another portion of the boundary contacts a different section. A third portion contiguous to the first two portions is adapted to engage an optical fiber along its length. A fourth portion contiguous to the first two, but not to the third, engages the cylindrical wall defined by the concentric recess of the receiving member. The recess terminates with a planar wall perpendicular to the axis. It can have an axially oriented depression. The fourth portion of the boundary engages differing amounts of a cylindrical wall depending upon the shape of the fourth portion. The sections include elastomeric material of sufficient resilience for a passageway defined by the third portions of assembled sections to expandably receive an optical fiber dimensioned larger than the passageway. The passageway can have a substantially triangular cross-section for receiving a fiber having a substantially circular cross-section. It can flare outwardly from a position interior the fiber receiving means to respective ends thereof. Passageway flaring can have a triangular, a hexagonal, or a circular configuration. The device can have a fiber receiving means with a polygonal shaped external surface. The receiving member can be transparent. The fiber receiving means can be held within the recess of the member by a force fit. The radius of the three sections, when assembled but prior to insertion into the recess, is greater than the radius of the recess.
Inventors
- 👤 Paul Melman
- 👤 W. John Carlsen
Bibliographic Details
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 12References Cited (Backward Citations)
USPTO Annuity & Maintenance Windows
| Annuity Stage | Window Opens | Payment Deadline | Surcharge Period Until | Estimated Fee | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 Years (Year 4) | 1986-07-04 | 1987-01-03 | 1987-07-05 | $2000.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 7.5 Years (Year 8) | 1990-07-04 | 1991-01-03 | 1991-07-05 | $3760.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 11.5 Years (Year 12) | 1994-07-04 | 1995-01-03 | 1995-07-05 | $7700.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |