Coupling device having a structured reflective surface for coupling input/output of an optical fiber

Abstract

A coupling device for physically and optically coupling an input / output end of an optical fiber for routing optical signals, to and from optical receiver and / or transmitter. The coupling device includes a structured reflective surface that functions as an optical element that directs light to / from the input / output ends of the optical fiber by reflection, and an optical fiber retention groove structure that positively receives the optical fiber in a manner with the end of the optical fiber at a defined distance to and aligned with the structured reflective surface. The open structure of the structured reflective surface and fiber retention structure lends itself to mass production processes such as precision stamping. The coupling device can be attached to an optical transmitter and / or receiver, with the structured reflective surface aligned to the light source in the transmitter or to the detector in the receiver, and adapted in an active optical cable.

Description

PRIORITY CLAIM[0001]This application claims the priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 606,885 filed on Mar. 5, 2012, which is fully incorporated by reference as if fully set forth herein. All publications noted below are fully incorporated by reference as if fully set forth herein.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]1. Field of the Invention[0003]The present invention relates to fiber optic signal transmission, in particular a device for physically and optically coupling an optical fiber for routing optical signals.[0004]2. Description of Related Art[0005]Given the increasing bandwidth requirements for modern day data transmission (e.g., for high definition video data), fiber optic signal transmissions have become ubiquitous for communicating data. Optical signals are transmitted over optical fibers, through a network of optical fibers and associated connectors and switches. The optical fibers demonstrate a significantly higher bandwidth data transmission capacity and ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention provides a coupling device for optically and physically connecting optical fibers, which improves manufacturability, ease of use and reliability at reduced costs. The device can be made using low cost processes such as stamping metal or plastic materials. The device can support single or multiple fibers for optical input and output, or both. Overall, the invention provides a cost-effective, reliable and easy-to-use coupling device for optical data communication.

Problems solved by technology

The transmitters and receivers and associated structures having the connection ports are therefore generally bulky, which take up significant space, thereby making them not suitable for use in smaller electronic devices.

Heretofore, the coupling structure for optical fibers and transmitters and receivers are generally quite expensive and comparatively large in size for a given port count.

The above noted drawbacks of existing fiber optic data transmission are exacerbated in multi-channel fiber transmission.

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