Patent ID: 7463801
Filing Date: 2008-12-09
Classification: A61B,G02B

Abstract:
1. An apparatus for transmitting laser light and redirecting the light laterally relative to the apparatus comprising: an optical fiber having a core and a cladding surrounding a sidewall of the core, the optical fiber having a distal end section terminating at a forwardly inclined surface; the cladding being a polymeric material having a melting temperature substantially lower than a melting temperature of the core; a tubular member surrounding the distal end section of the optical fiber, the tubular member having a closed end to confine the distal end section and inclined surface; the sidewall of the distal end section of the core having a portion thereof generally opposite the inclined surface and with the cladding removed from the portion to define an exposed and unclad portion of the core; the exposed and unclad portion of the core united to an opposing portion of the tubular member; the exposed and unclad portion of the core and the opposing portion of the tubular member being joined together at an intermediate material selected to have an index of refraction matching with the core and the tubular member; whereby light from a laser propagated down the optical fiber is redirected laterally from the inclined surface through the united exposed and unclad portion of the core and the opposing portion of the tubular member.