Device and method for positioning optical fibers

#The present invention is directed to the positioning of optical fibers and, more specifically, is directed to at least one plate capable of receiving at least one optical fiber therein.

#Fiber optic technology is widely utilized in today's telecommunication and computer networks. One important aspect of fiber optic technology is the interconnection of optical fibers to optoelectronic devices, such as semiconductor lasers, photo-detectors, etc., wherein the optoelectronic devices either receive light signals from the optical fibers or the optoelectronic devices emit light signals into the fibers. A good optical interconnect between optical fibers and optoelectronic devices requires precise alignment of optical fibers, ease of manufacture and a commercially viable manufacturing cost.

#The demand for increased data transmission speed and the increase in computer processing speeds have driven the development of fiber optic technology. To achieve the necessary high density, rapid data transmission signals, optical interconnect assemblies are used in various communication and computer networks. Precise positioning of the ends of the fibers must be obtained to properly align the fibers with opto-electronic emitters and/or detectors.

#The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments of the present invention, will be better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the invention, there are shown in the drawings embodiments which are presently preferred. It is understood, however, that the invention is not limited to the precise arrangements and instrumentalities shown. In the drawings:

#FIG. 1 is a top plan view of a first preferred embodiment of a plate for receiving at least one optical fiber according to the present invention;

#FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the plate of FIG. 1 as taken along the line 2—2 of FIG. 1 illustrating an optical fiber prior to engagement with the plate;

#Certain terminology is used in the following description for convenience only and is not limiting. The words “right,” “left,” “lower,” and “upper” designate directions in the drawings to which reference is made. The words “inwardly” and “outwardly” refer to directions toward and away from, respectively, the geometric center of the at least one plate and designated parts thereof. The terminology includes the words above specifically mentioned, derivatives thereof, and words of similar import. Additionally, the words “a” and “one,” as used in the claims and in the corresponding portions of the specification, are defined as meaning “at least one” unless specifically stated otherwise.

#Referring to the drawings in detail, wherein like numerals indicate like elements throughout, there is shown in FIGS. 1-3 a first preferred embodiment of a plate for receiving at least one optical fiber 18, generally designated 10. FIGS. 4-6 illustrate a first preferred embodiment of stacked plates for receiving at least one optical fiber 18, generally designated 22. FIG. 7 illustrates a second preferred embodiment of stacked plates for receiving at least one optical fiber 18, generally designated 30. FIGS. 8A, 9 and 10 illustrate a second preferred embodiment of a plate for receiving at least one optical fiber 18, generally designated 32. FIG. 8B illustrates a third preferred embodiment of a plate for receiving at least one optical fiber 18, generally designated 33. FIG. 11 illustrates a third preferred embodiment of stacked plates for receiving at least one optical fiber 18, generally designated 40.

#It is preferred that the plates of the present invention are formed of a material suitable for use in optical fiber applications, such as silicone or the like. Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate from this disclosure that any other known materials suitable for use with optical fibers 18 can be used to form the plates of the present invention without departing from the scope of this invention. Additionally, the plates can be formed by a combination, or layers, of materials without departing from the scope of the present invention.