Terry Lee Smith

This inventor holds 126 USPTO granted patents and 25 published patent applications and 12 EPO patents, primarily in Optical Connectors (CPC class G02B6-3885). Top assignees: 3M Innovative Properties Company, Other. Active years: 1986-2026.

USPTO Granted Patents = 126 (Patent Applications = 25)

% Patents Active = 66.7

EPO Patents = 12 (Patent Applications = 40)

Average Co-Inventor Count = 3.2

ph-index = 15

Forward Citations = 845(Granted Patents)

Forward Citations (Not Self Cited) = 770(Dec 10, 2025)

Inventors with similar research interests:

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Location History:

Bellflower, CA (US) (1986)
Sebastopol, CA (US) (1993)
Sandy, OR (US) (1994)
Yorba Linda, CA (US) (1995)
Cicero, IL (US) (1996)
Berwyn, IL (US) (2000)
Roseville, MN (US) (1996 - 2024)

Company Filing History:

120 out of 22,366

3M Innovative Properties Company

patents

5 out of 834,411

Other

patents

where one patent can have more than one assignee

Years Active: 1986-2026

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Areas of Expertise:

Light Coupling Element

Optical Ferrule

Configurable Optical Connector

Dust Mitigating Connector

Optical Assembly

Waveguide Positioning

Optical Device

Optical Communication

Stackable Ferrule

Modular Connectors

Optical Cooling System

Alignment Frames

126 patents (USPTO):Sort by Forward CitationsExplore Patents

1. 12566288 - Light coupling element (2026-03-03),

2. 12169310 - Stackable optical ferrule and connector using same (2024-12-17),

3. 12061363 - Configurable optical connector (2024-08-13),

4. 12032212 - Ferrules, alignment frames and connectors (2024-07-09),

5. 11934019 - Dust mitigating optical connector (2024-03-19),

6. 11906789 - Optical waveguide positioning feature in a multiple waveguides connector (2024-02-20),

7. 11906786 - Light coupling element and assembly (2024-02-20),

8. 11880072 - Optical ferrules with waveguide inaccessible space (2024-01-23),

9. 11874510 - Optical assembly with cable retainer (2024-01-16),

10. 11874508 - Optical ferrules and optical ferrule molds (2024-01-16),

11. 11726265 - Optical waveguide with spatially modulated index region (2023-08-15),

12. 11719889 - Optical connector (2023-08-08),

13. 11592622 - Light coupling element and assembly (2023-02-28),

14. 11585990 - Stackable optical ferrule and connector using same (2023-02-21),

15. 11579375 - Optical ferrules and optical ferrule molds (2023-02-14),

Title: Terry Lee Smith: A Trailblazer in Invention

Introduction:

Terry Lee Smith, a remarkable innovator based in Roseville, MN, has left an indelible mark on the world of inventions. With a total of 113 patents to her name, she has pioneered groundbreaking technologies that continue to shape the industry.

Latest Patents:

Smith's latest patents showcase her ingenuity and expertise in the field. One notable invention is the "Optical ferrules with waveguide inaccessible space," revolutionizing optical waveguide technology by enhancing light characteristics. Another invention, the "Optical assembly with cable retainer," demonstrates her ability to optimize optical cable subassemblies for superior performance.

Career Highlights:

Throughout her illustrious career, Smith has made significant contributions to companies such as 3M Innovative Properties Company and Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company (referred to as 3M). Her innovative spirit and dedication to excellence have earned her a reputation as a top-tier inventor in the industry.

Collaborations:

Smith's success is also attributed to her collaborations with talented individuals in the field. Notable coworkers like Michael Albert Haase and Alexander R. Mathews have worked alongside her, collectively driving innovation and pushing boundaries in the realm of inventions.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Terry Lee Smith stands as a beacon of innovation and inspiration, showcasing that with unwavering dedication and passion, one can achieve remarkable feats in the world of inventions. Her remarkable impact will continue to resonate for years to come, inspiring future generations of inventors to push the boundaries of what is possible in the realm of technology and innovation.