Patent ID: 6707981
Filing Date: 2004-03-16
Classification: G02B

Abstract:
A multi-fiber, Variable Optical Attenuation Collimator (VOAC) for providing a variable degree of optical power attenuation to a light beam propagating therethrough, comprising:a lens and a pigtail separated by an air gap wherein the lens and the pigtail is affixed to a common housing tube in such a manner that the light beam entering at a left end of the lens is automatically focused onto a proper entry point of the pigtail for further propagation along the pigtail to define a main light path; a fiber assembly containing one or more optical fibers attached to a right end of the pigtail; and an Attenuation Control Element (ACE) movably mounted onto a surface of the pigtail within the air gap in close proximity to, yet clear of the main light path; and a control means connected to the ACE to provide a controllable movement of the ACE to obstruct all or a portion of the light beam propagating through the main light path from the pigtail to the fiber assembly to achieve the variable degree of optical power attenuation.