USA As Represented by Secretary of the Navy

Aaron D Klein

Adolph L Lewis

An optical coupler transfers light energy signals relative to an optical h which includes a fiber optic cable. A body member includes first and second ports at opposite ends for supporting first and second terminals of the fiber optic cable in laterally offset alignment relative to each other. First and second reflective elements, preferably of concave spherical configuration, are supported within the body member for collecting and reflecting light energy transmitted through the first and second terminals of the fiber optic cable. The first and second reflective elements are so configured and positioned as to transmit collimated light energy between them for completing the optical path between the first and second terminals of the fiber optic cable. First and second planar reflective surfaces are supported from opposite sides of the body member to intercept a portion of the path of the collimated light energy and are angularly disposed to laterally transfer light energy relative to the optical path between the first and second reflective elements. Preferably, the planar reflector surfaces are removable so as to minimize interference with light energy signal transmission between the collimating reflective elements and reduce attenuation. Additionally, the planar reflector surface may desirably be frequency sensitive so as to extract from or introduce into the optical path only certain selected frequencies of light energy signals.

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Arlington, VA, United States of America

Aaron D Klein