Grin lenses, devices and methods of manufacture
AssigneeCorning Incorporated
InventorDonald M. Trotter, Jr.
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
Graded index lenses, methods, and devices are disclosed. In certain embodiments, he lenses are made from generally cylindrical glass members having a radially varying refractive index and have a pitch less than about 0.23. Other embodiments relate to graded index lenses having a pitch between about 0.23 and 0.25 and an index gradient less than or equal to 0.3.
Claims23
A graded index lens comprising a generally cylindrical glass member having a radially varying index of refraction, the glass member having a length such that the lens has a pitch of less than about 0.23.
A method of making a graded index lens comprising obtaining a generally cylindrical glass member having a radially varying index of refraction and forming the glass member having a length such that the lens has a pitch of less than 0.23.
A collimator comprising an optical fiber and a generally cylindrical graded index lens in a spaced apart relationship, wherein the lens has a pitch less than about 0.23.
A graded index lens comprising a generally cylindrical glass member having a radially varying index of refraction, a pitch between about 0.23 and 0.25 and an index gradient less than or equal to about 0.3 mm−1.
A graded index lens comprising a generally cylindrical glass member having a diameter less than or equal to 1.2 mm and a radially varying index of refraction, a pitch between about 0.23 and 0.25 and an index gradient greater than 0.36.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.