The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Nov. 11, 2014
Filed:
Sep. 17, 2010
Joerg Roberto Purfuerst, Kürten, DE;
Norbert Schumann, Kürten, DE;
Thomas Keller, Neuss, DE;
Werner Schwarz, Leverkusen, DE;
David M. Rudek, Düsseldorf, DE;
Eric Schmuck, Düsseldorf, DE;
Joerg Roberto Purfuerst, Kürten, DE;
Norbert Schumann, Kürten, DE;
Thomas Keller, Neuss, DE;
Werner Schwarz, Leverkusen, DE;
David M. Rudek, Düsseldorf, DE;
Eric Schmuck, Düsseldorf, DE;
3M Innovative Properties Company, St. Paul, MN (US);
Abstract
A connector adapted for use in an illumination system comprising at least one optical element, such as an optical fiber. is disclosed. The connector comprises a housing dimensioned so that internally it retains at least one end portion of at least one optical element, and externally substantially follows the shape of the end portion(s) of the optical element(s). This forms a join between the ends of the optical element(s). A light source is also contained within the housing and positioned so as to illuminate the end portions of at least one optical element. Electrical connection means adapted to connect the light source to an external power supply are provided. The electrical connection means being moveable relative to the housing. The electrical connection means may be carried by a flexible substrate, or may be formed by slideable contacts within a light guide rail.