Dukane Corporation

Michael J Hilgart

Hermando Esguerra

Sudhakar D Morankar

John M Mucci

Patrice Kerevel

Microdistances may be measured between a pair of objects such as a laser diode and an optical fiber end extending toward the diode. One orients the ends of a light emitting fiber and a light sensing fiber for the light sensing fiber to sense light from the emitting fiber. One moves the fibers in such relation until the laser diode or other object passes between the emitting and sensing fibers to occlude light passing between them. One then advances the emitting and sensing fibers toward the optical fiber end until light passing between the emitting and sensing fibers increases to a predetermined value, then noting the position of the emitting and sensing fibers. Then, one further advances the emitting and sensing fibers until the second object passes between the emitting and sensing fibers to occlude light passing between them. One then again notes the position of the emitting and sensing fibers. Comparison of the first position noted with the second position noted gives the microdistance between the two objects.

Method and apparatus for measuring of microdistances

A frame assembly for holding and orienting a fiber optic member is provided. The assembly comprises tubular means having a bore proportioned to slidingly receive a fiber optic member. The tubular means carries outwardly projecting flange means. U-shaped retainer means is proportioned to loosely receive the tubular means with the flange means being in essential contact with the retainer means. Accordingly, the fiber optic member may be moved with four degrees of freedom within the tubular means to occupy its desired position. Following this, it is affixed in that position by securing the fiber optic member to the tubular means and the flange means to the retainer means. Preferably, laser welding is used for each of the securing steps, since the system does not have to be touched or pushed in any way as the laser welding takes place.

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Westmont, IL, United States of America

Michael J Hilgart