Patent ID: 6321022
Filing Date: 2001-11-20
Classification: G02B

Abstract:
A variable optical attenuator comprising:a frame;a fiber optical coupler having a first fiber section, a second fiber section, and an intermediate fiber section interconnecting the first and second fiber sections;a flexure having a fixed portion mounted on the frame and a free portion suspended from a resilient portion out of frictional engagement with the frame;the first fiber section of the optical coupler being attached to the frame;the second fiber section of the optical coupler being supported for limited angular movement by the free portion of the flexure;a kinematic chain connecting a source of motion to the free portion of the flexure for displacing the free portion of the flexure with respect to the fixed portion of the flexure;the free portion of the flexure being displaceable with respect to the fixed portion of the flexure without substantially changing in angular orientation with respect to the frame;a bearing carried by the free portion of the flexure permitting angular movement of the second fiber section of the optical coupler with respect to the free portion of the flexure; andthe intermediate section of the optical coupler being bendable in response to the displacement of the free portion of the flexure to adjust transmission characteristics of the optical coupler.