Patent ID: 7787733
Filing Date: 2010-08-31
Classification: G02B

Abstract:
1. A method of controllably moving stray light propagating along an optical fiber, the optical fiber including at least a core region, an inner cladding layer, and an outer polymer coating, the method comprising the steps of: including a thin outer cladding layer disposed between the inner cladding layer and outer polymer coating, wherein the thin outer cladding layer exhibits a refractive index less than a refractive index of the inner cladding and less than a refractive index of the outer polymer coating, wherein the thin outer cladding layer has a thickness that is substantially less than a thickness of the inner cladding; capturing stray light propagating along at least the inner cladding layer within the thin outer cladding layer; and gradually dissipating the stray light into the outer polymer coating along an extended portion thereof, the gradual dissipation controlled at least by the thickness of the thin outer cladding so as to minimize local heating of the outer coating by the stray light.