February 2011 CLASSIFICATION DEFINITIONS 385 - 1 …The optical fibers and waveguides ... including optical waveguides, and subclass 454 ... subclass 484 for scanning with fiber optics

February 2011 CLASSIFICATION DEFINITIONS 385 - 1

February 2011

CLASS 385, OPTICAL WAVEGUIDES

SECTION I - CLASS DEFINITION

GENERAL STATEMENT OF THE CLASS SUBJECTMATTER

A. Subject matter appropriate to this class falls into oneof the following categories: (1) An optical waveguidingelement, per se, or a grouping thereof which conveyslight from one point to another through an opticallytransparent elongated structure by modal transmission,total internal reflection, or total reflectorization. (2) Acombination of an optical waveguiding element with anadditional broadly recited optical element which cou-ples light thereto or therefrom or a combination includ-ing a broadly recited optical element which coupleslight between plural optical waveguiding elements. (3)A combination of an optical waveguiding element withstructure which mechanically joins this waveguidingelement with another or with a diverse optical element.(4) An optical modulator where the modulation of alight wave characteristic is performed exclusivelywithin an optical waveguiding element. (5) Other mis-cellaneous devices formed of an optical waveguide(e.g., a waveguide sensing device) and supplementaldevices which are limited to use with an opticalwaveguide (e.g., an external clamp or retainer) not oth-erwise classifiable.

B. Nominally claimed structure, external to this class incombination with apparatus under the class definition, isclassified in this class unless provided for in the appro-priate external class.

C. Significantly claimed structure, external to this classclaimed in combination with structure under the classdefinition, is classified in the class appropriate to theexternal device unless specifically excluded therefrom.

(1) Note. A detailed optical amplifier/fre-quency converter, per se, or such subjectmatter in combination with additional waveguide structure is classified elsewhere. Thenominal recitation of any type of opticalamplifier/converter together with additionalwaveguide structure is classified in thisclass (385) wherein such combinationmeets the class requirements.

(2) Note. Optical modulation that occurswithin the area of total internal reflection ofan optical waveguide belongs in this class,

whereas modulation occurring outside theoptical waveguide is classified elsewhere.

(3) Note. If significant details beyond thenominal recitation of a detector or lightsource are claimed, classification is else-where.

(4) Note. A device having an optical wavegoing through a bulk material, such as asemiconductor, glass, etc., does not belongin this class since the wave is not totallyconfined within the boundaries of the bulkmaterial. If, however, the wave is totallyconfined within an area but specified leak-age, as designed, is built into the area forsome desired results, this would thenbelong in this class.

(5) Note. The optical fibers and waveguidesclassified in this class are final products,suitable for immediate optical transmission.Excluded from this class are articles ofintermediate shape (e.g., blanks, preforms)from which optical fibers and waveguidesare made (as by drawing or extruding). Forthe classification of such intermediate arti-cles, see References to Other Classes,below.

(6) Note. Fiber optics refers to optical devicesfor conveying light or images through aparticular configuration of glass or plasticfibers. Incoherent fiber optic bundles willtransmit light but not an image. Coherentfiber optic bundles can transmit an imagethrough small, clad optical fibers where thefiber ends have similar positions at oppositebundle ends.

(7) Note. An optical fiber waveguide is basi-cally a light guidance system that is cylin-drical in shape. The fiber relies uponmodal transmission to transmit light alongits axial length. Light enters one end of thefiber and emerges from the opposite endwith only minimal loss.

(8) Note. The thin-film waveguide is a thindielectric guide film of high refractiveindex formed adjacent to a substrate or sup-port region of lower refractive index. Thethin-film relies upon modal transmission totransmit light along its length. Light enters

385 - 2 CLASSIFICATION DEFINITIONS February 2011

1February 2011

one end of the thin-film where it is pro-cessed (e.g., modulated or switched) andemerges from the opposite end.

(9) Note. Combinations including an opticalwaveguide and a device of the Class 257type are classified here provided the combi-nation does not meet the requirements of astill larger system class.

(10) Note. A tee coupler is an optical compo-nent used to interconnect a number of ter-minals through optical waveguides byusing partial reflections at dielectric inter-faces or metallic surfaces, or by splittingthe optical waveguide bundle.

(11) Note. Modal Transmission is a form ofguide-wave propagation characterized by aparticular field pattern.

(12) Note. A laser in an integrated optical cir-cuit is classified herein (385).

SECTION II - REFERENCES TO OTHERCLASSES

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:8, Bleaching and Dyeing; Fluid Treatment and

Chemical Modification of Textiles and Fibers, appropriate subclasses for chemical treatmentof fibers.

29, Metal Working, subclasses 700+ for variousmetal working jigs, and subclasses 854-873 forassembling electrical terminals to conductorsor circuits (e.g., using ferrules, splicing, etc.).

33, Geometrical Instruments, subclass 1 for opticalreadout therefrom and subclasses 227+ forstraightline light ray type instruments.

40, Card, Picture, or Sign Exhibiting, subclasses427+ for illuminated special effects display,subclasses 451 and 452 for illuminated chang-ing exhibitor, and subclasses 546 and 547 forilluminated signs (e.g., by fiber optics).

57, Textiles: Spinning, Twisting, and Twining, subclasses 3+ for cable forming by twisting.

65, Glass Manufacturing, subclasses 385+ for pro-cesses of forming optical fibers, waveguides,and preforms, particularly subclass 386 forprocesses of forming planar waveguides; sub-classes 388, 389, 390, and 397+ for formingoptical fibers or waveguides having specifiedcomposition; subclasses 393, 402, and 403 for

forming optical fibers or waveguides havingparticular cross section or configuration; sub-classes 406+ for processes of forming com-bined with joining optical fibers orwaveguides; subclasses 413+ and 430+ forprocesses of forming combined with coatingoptical fibers or waveguides; and subclasses489+ for apparatus for forming optical fibers orwaveguides.

70, Locks, digest 51 for light sensitive lock con-trol.

73, Measuring and Testing, subclass 293 for liquidlevel/depth gauge with illumination, subclasses488+ for speed/acceleration testing that mayuse optical waveguides, subclass 653 for opti-cal indication of vibration, subclass 705 for anoptical fluid pressure gauge, subclass 800 foroptical stress or strain testing, and subclass861.08 for optical measurement of volume orrate of flow.

83, Cutting, subclass 913 for filament-to-staple-fiber cutting.

102, Ammunition and Explosives, subclass 201 foroptical explosive ignition.

116, Signals and Indicators, subclass 202 for visuallight signal indicators.

126, Stoves and Furnaces, subclasses 569+ for solarheat collectors which may utilize opticalwaveguides.

138, Pipes and Tubular Conduits, appropriate sub-classes for cable containing ducts.

156, Adhesive Bonding and Miscellaneous Chemi-cal Manufacture, subclass 158 for methods ofjoining fibers (bonding) end-to-end.

174, Electricity: Conductors and Insulators, sub-classes 68.1+ for electrical cables, per se, andparticularly subclass 70 for combined optical/electrical cables or a submarine repeater hous-ing.

200, Electricity: Circuit Makers and Breakers, sub-classes 310+ for illuminated switch indicatorsand digest 47 for light guide switch indicators.

204, Chemistry: Electrical and Wave Energy, sub-class 192.29 for forming a transparent opticalconductor by sputtering.

211, Supports: Racks, subclasses 13+ for specialarticle supports.

216, Etching a Substrate: Processes, especiallysubclasses 24+ for methods of making an opti-cal device by chemical etching combined withan additional manufacturing step.

219, Electric Heating, subclasses 121.36+ for meth-ods and apparatus for fusing (splicing) opticalfibers.


February 2011

225, Severing by Tearing or Breaking, subclasses94+ for apparatus which scribes then breaksoptical fibers.

226, Advancing Material of Indeterminate Length, appropriate subclasses for advancing fibersthrough a tube (i.e., cable).

235, Registers, subclass 473 for optical fiber codedrecord sensors.

244, Aeronautics and Astronautics, subclass 3.12and 3.16+ for missiles guided by optical fibers.

250, Radiant Energy, subclasses 227.11+ for opti-cal or pre-photocell systems having a light con-ductor and subclass 577 for a fluid level opticalsystem.

257, Active Solid-State Devices (e.g., Transistors,Solid-State Diodes), subclasses 13, 79 through103 and 918 for incoherent light emitting injec-tion luminescent devices, subclasses 80through 85 for semiconductor light emittingsources combined with semiconductor lightresponsive devices, subclasses 10, 11, 21, 53through 56, 72, 113 through 118, 184 through189, 225 through 234, 257, 258, 290 through294, 414, and 431 through 466 for light respon-sive active semiconductor devices, and sub-classes 446 and 499+ for integrated circuitdevices with electrically isolated components,in general, and other appropriate subclasses forspecific type devices in integrated circuits.

264, Plastic and Nonmetallic Article Shaping orTreating: Processes, subclasses 1.24+ forshaping, treating, or extruding optical fibers,waveguides, or preforms.

285, Pipe Joints or Couplings, subclass 260 for cou-pling where both members are pliable and non-metallic.

313, Electric Lamp and Discharge Devices, sub-class 372 for a cathode-ray tube with light con-ducting fiber or rod.

324, Electricity: Measuring and Testing, sub-classes 96+ for electrical testing using radiantenergy.

333, Wave Transmission Lines and Networks, sub-classes 24+ for coupling networks; subclasses141+, 150+ and 157+ for delay lines; and sub-classes 209+ for waveguide tunable filters.

340, Communications: Electrical, subclasses 555+for intrusion detection by light beam; subclass815.42 for a visual indicator with light piping;and subclasses 853.1+ for wellbore telemetrywhich may include optical waveguides.

341, Coded Data Generation or Conversion, sub-class 137 for A-to-D or D-to-A conversionusing fiber optics.

345, Computer Graphics Processing and SelectiveVisual Display Systems, subclasses 180+ forlight pen input visual display systems.

346, Recorders, subclass 33 for well logging whichmay use optical waveguides.

348, Television, subclass 197 for mechanical-opti-cal scanning with fiber optics, subclass 359 forcamera with fiber optics, and subclass 804 forvideo display with fiber optics.

355, Photocopying, subclass 1 for photocopyingwith fiber optics.

356, Optic: Measuring and Testing, subclass 73.1for optical fiber or waveguide inspection, sub-classes 241.1+ for inspection borescopes ingeneral, subclass 459 for ring laser gyrosincluding optical waveguides, and subclass 454for Fabry-Perot cavities.

358, Facsimile and Static Presentation Processing, subclass 484 for scanning with fiber optics oroptical waveguides and subclass 901.1 for fiberoptic cross-reference art collection.

359, Optical: Systems and Elements, appropriatesubclasses for optical systems such as commu-nications systems which may utilize an opticalwaveguide, and for a detailed optical ampli-fier/frequency converter, per se, or such subjectmatter in combination with additional waveguide structure. Modulation occurring outsidethe optical waveguide is classified in Class359.

361, Electricity: Electrical Systems and Devices, subclasses 748+ for housings with electricalconnection of PC boards.

362, Illumination, subclasses 551+ for illuminationsystems which utilize an optical fiber.

365, Static Information Storage and Retrieval, sub-class 112 for photoconductive static informa-tion storage or retrieval.

367, Communications, Electrical: Acoustic WaveSystem and Devices, subclass 25 for well log-ging using fiber optics and subclasses 140+ foracoustic transducers in general.

369, Dynamic Information Storage or Retrieval, subclass 18 for optical reading of a mechanicalrecord.

372, Coherent Light Generators, subclass 6 for opti-cal fiber lasers; also see the Class Definition,References to Other Classes.

374, Thermal Measuring and Testing, subclass 131for thermal measurement using optical fibers.

379, Telephonic Communications, subclasses 56.1+for light wave link for speech or paging signal.

399, Electrophotography, subclass 64 for opticaldetector of toner in a developing unit, subclass


1February 2011

118 for optics with particular modular or dis-placeable structure, subclass 137 for opticalintermediate storage of original image forma-tion, subclasses 196+ for variable magnifica-tion, subclass 218 for exposure lens, andsubclass 219 for exposure of an image forma-tion having fiber optics.

425, Plastic Article or Earthenware Shaping orTreating: Apparatus, subclass 802 (Cross-Ref-erence Art Collection) for cable tube or rodsplicing.

427, Coating Processes, subclasses 163.1+ for pro-cesses of coating optical fibers, filaments, rods,or waveguides.

428, Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles, sub-classes 364+ for miscellaneous filaments orfibers; subclass 542.8 for articles of intermedi-ate shape (e.g., blanks, preforms) from whichoptical fibers and waveguides are made (as bydrawing or extruding).

433, Dentistry, subclass 29 for dental handpiecesprovided with optical transmission cables forilluminating the work.

439, Electrical Connectors, appropriate subclassesfor connectors of electrical conductors.

446, Amusement Devices: Toys, subclass 219 fortoys having optical fibers.

451, Abrading, subclasses 41+ for a process ofgrinding glass.

501, Compositions: Ceramic, subclass 37 for theceramic composition of an optical fiber.

505, Superconductor Technology: Apparatus,Material, Process, appropriate subclasses.

600, Surgery, subclasses 101+, for surgical speculaincluding endoscopes, subclasses 184+, 248+,and 249 for other surgical diagnostic imple-ments.

601, Surgery: Kinesitherapy, subclasses 15+ foroptical kinesitherapy.

SECTION III - GLOSSARY

CONNECTING

The physical or mechanical joining of optical waveguid-ing structures to provide a stable region of light transfertherebetween. The waveguiding structures which arejoined together are characterized by terminal endswhich are mechanically prepared. This includes ferruletype housings for demountable as well as permanentconnections, mechanical sleeves which partially orwholly surround and secure the ends of the structures orthe light transfer regions, and "assistance-type" struc-

tures which serve to align and guide the ends ofwaveguiding structures into an effective light transferrelationship. The waveguiding structures which can beconnected (as defined herein) include optical fibers,optical fiber bundles, nonfiber-like optical waveguides,and electro-optical transmitting or receiving devices(e.g., semiconductor laser diodes).

COUPLING

The interchange of light radiation among or betweenwaveguiding structures,wherein the mechanical inter-connection between the structures is of little or noimportance. The radiation interchange may be accom-plished through any of a number of physical phenom-ena, including the evanescent wave couplingphenomenon, various modal coupling phenomena,refraction, reflection, as well as through inducedchanges in structure parameters which govern lighttransmission (for example, electro-optically or electro-magnetically induced refractive index changes in an"interaction" or coupling region). However, devices forinput/output of a light wave to/from an optical confine-ment area, or devices for manipulating an optical wavewithin or adjacent to an optical confinement area, whichemploy holography, are classified in the holographyarea of the Class 359 schedule.

INPUT-OUTPUT COUPLING

The introduction of electromagnetic light radiation intoan optical waveguiding structure from a source which isexternal to the structure, or the extraction of electromag-netic light radiation from an optical waveguiding struc-ture to a detecting device at its exterior. This term("input-output coupling") is specifically defined toinclude only the coupling of light from a source (e.g., alaser) into an optical waveguide or the coupling of lightfrom an optical waveguide to a detector (e.g., a photo-diode), and thus excludes the coupling of light betweenoptical waveguides.

LIGHT TRANSMITTING ROD

Any optically transparent elongated structure used totransmit light from one end to the other end by otherthan modal transmission (e.g., in a random fashion).

OPTICAL FIBER

A light transmitting (optical) waveguide formed in agenerally cylindrical form, often of extremely smalldiameter and of great length, which confines the trans-mitted radiation therewithin by means of the principle of


February 2011

total internal reflection. Optical fibers are usually com-prised of a central light transmitting core of relativelyhigh refractive index, surrounded by a concentric clad-ding of relatively low refractive index.

OPTICAL WAVEGUIDE

An optical waveguide is a waveguide which guides radi-ation in the visible and near-visible portions of the spec-trum by means of total internal reflection.

TOTAL INTERNAL REFLECTION

A principle based upon Snell's Law, which defines therelationship between incident and refracted light rays ata boundary between two media of different refractiveindices: n1 sin Q1 = n2 sin Q2 where n1 = refractiveindex of first medium; n2 = refractive index of secondmedium; Q1 = angle of incident ray at boundary; Q2 =angle of refracted ray at boundary; For Q2 = 90 degrees,

the critical angle of incidence is given by Qc = sin-1 (n2/

n1). At angles of incidence greater than Qc, the light isreflected from the boundary.

TOTALLY REFLECTORIZED

The state of an optical element having all of its inwardfacing lateral surfaces made reflectors, as for exampleby the coating thereof with a reflective metal.

WAVEGUIDE

A waveguide is defined as any structure capable ofguiding electromagnetic radiation in a direction parallelto its axis, while substantially confining the radiation toa region within and adjacent to its surfaces.

SUBCLASSES

1 TEMPORAL OPTICAL MODULATIONWITHIN AN OPTICAL WAVEGUIDE:This subclass is indented under the class defini-tion. Subject matter wherein a device varies aproperty of light as a function of time only as ittraverses the waveguide where such variationis in accordance with a varying signal whichcan be of any energy form.

(1) Note. Such properties of the traversinglight include amplitude, frequency,phase, or polarization.

(2) Note. The variation can be impartedthrough elasto-optic, magneto-optic,acousto-optic, etc., interactions with thewaveguide.

(3) Note. Elasto-optic modulation involvesvarying a property of a light wave propa-gating in an optical waveguide by amechanical stressing applied thereto.

(4) Note. Magneto-optic modulationinvolves varying a property of a lightwave propagating in an opticalwaveguide by a magnetic field appliedthereto.

(5) Note. Acousto-optic modulationinvolves varying a property of a lightwave propagating in an opticalwaveguide by a modulating sonic(acoustic) wave applied thereto.

(6) Note. The modulation must take placeexclusively within the waveguide. Opti-cal modulation occurring outside of awaveguide is classified in Class 359.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUB-CLASS:4+, for directional modulation within

fiber optics.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:359, Optical: Systems and Elements, sub-

classes 238+ for light wave temporalmodulation outside of a waveguide.

2 Electro-optic:This subclass is indented under subclass 1.Subject matter wherein the optical properties ofan optical waveguiding element which deter-mine the temporal modula-tion are varied by anapplied modulating electrical field.

(1) Note. Includes electro-optic modulationwithin an optical waveguide using a par-ticular optical coupling (for example,between juxtaposed (adjacent)waveguides). Also, included is electro-optic modulation performed by a combi-nation of components integrated on acommon substrate or chip.


1February 2011

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUB-CLASS:8, for directional electro-optic modula-

tion within an optical waveguide.


classes 245+ for electro-optic tempo-ral modulation outside of an opticalwaveguide.

3 Phase modulation type:This subclass is indented under subclass 2.Subject matter wherein the normal zero phaseof a constant amplitude optical wave (i.e., car-rier wave) is shifted by an angle proportional tothe amplitude of an impressed signal (i.e.,modulating signal).

(1) Note. A sinusoidal signal of zero phasewill have a zero amplitude at the inter-section of the x-y axis.


classes 238+ for temporal phase mod-ulation outside of a waveguide.

4 DIRECTIONAL OPTICAL MODULA-TION WITHIN AN OPTICALWAVEGUIDE:This subclass is indented under the class defini-tion. Subject matter wherein the path of a lightwave exiting a waveguide is varied in accor-dance with a varying signal applied to thewaveguide which can be of any energy form.

(1) Note. The directional modulation musttake place exclusively within thewaveguide. Optical directional modula-tion occurring outside of a waveguide isclassified in Class 359.

(2) Note. This includes elasto-optic direc-tional modulation, wherein deflection ofa light wave output from an opticalwaveguide is varied in synchronizationwith the amplitude of an impressedmechanical stressing thereof.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUB-CLASS:1+, for light wave temporal modulation

within an optical waveguide whereinthe light beam is modulated relative totime in accordance with the modulat-ing input signal.


classes 298+ for optical directionalmodulation out-side of an opticalwaveguide.

5 Light intensity dependent (e.g., nonlinear ef-fects):This subclass is indented under subclass 4.Subject matter wherein the directional modu-lation is a function of the amplitude of the inci-dent light wave itself.

(1) Note. Includes thermo-optic directionalmodulation, wherein deflection of a lightwave output from an optical waveguideis varied in response to the intensity ofapplied thermal radiation.

6 Magneto-optic:This subclass is indented under subclass 4.Subject matter wherein properties of an opticalwaveguiding element which determine thedirectional modulation are con-trolled by amodulating magnetic field applied to the ele-ment.


classes 298+ for magneto-optic direc-tional modulation outside of awaveguide.

7 Acousto-optic:This subclass is indented under subclass 4.Subject matter wherein proper-ties of an opti-cal waveguiding element which determine thedirectional modulation are con-trolled by amodulating sonic wave applied to the element.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:181, Acoustics, appropriate subclasses for

acoustic devices, in general.


February 2011

359, Optical: Systems and Elements, sub-classes 305+ for acousto-optic direc-tional modulation outside of awaveguide.

367, Communications, Electrical: Acous-tic Wave System and Devices, sub-classes 140+ for acoustic transducers.

8 Electro-optic:This subclass is indented under subclass 4.Subject matter wherein the optical properties ofan optical waveguiding element which deter-mine the directional modution are changed by amodulating electrical field applied to the ele-ment.


classes 315+ for electro-optical direc-tional modulation outside of awaveguide.

9 Coupling between waveguides:This subclass is indented under subclass 8.Subject matter wherein coupling between jux-taposed optical transmission elements achieveselectro-optic directional modulation.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUB-CLASS:15+, for optical waveguide coupling, per

se.

10 Diffraction grating (e.g., Bragg):This subclass is indented under subclass 8.Subject matter wherein electro-optic direc-tional modulation within a waveguide utilizesan element having a series of very close, equi-distant, parallel lines, (i.e., grating) or whereinthe waveguide has a grating impressed upon itby an externally applied field.


classes 566+ for a diffraction grating,per se.

11 POLARIZATION WITHOUT MODULA-TION:This subclass is indented under the class defini-tion. Subject matter wherein the polarizationof an incoming light wave is modified as aresult of passing through an optical waveguid-ing element.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUB-CLASS:1+, for time dependent polarization mod-

ulation of light within a waveguide.


classes 483.01 through 494.01 forlight polarization without modulationoutside of a waveguide.

12 OPTICAL WAVEGUIDE SENSOR:This subclass is indented under the class defini-tion. Subject matter where-in an opticalwaveguide, per se, is responsive to an environ-mental change.

(1) Note. This is a residual subclass forgeneric optical waveguide sensing ele-ments which are not elsewhere classifi-able. See the SEARCH CLASS notesbelow.

(2) Note. Combinations of an opticalwaveguide with an external sensing ele-ment or sensing elements, per se, that arenot optical waveguides, are classifiedelse-where.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUB-CLASS:94, for optical fiber/nonfiber device con-

nectors which are sealed to excludethe effects of environmental condi-tions.

128, for coated optical fiber waveguideswhich may also act as a sensor undercertain conditions.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:73, Measuring and Testing, subclass 293

for optical liquid level sensing; sub-classes 488+ for optical speed oracceleration testing; subclass 577 foroptical depth sensing; subclass 653for optical vibration sensing; subclass705 for optical fluid pressure sensing;subclass 800 for optical stress orstrain sensors; and subclass 861.08 foroptical sensing of volume and rate offlow.

235, Registers, subclass 473 for opticalfiber coded record sensors.


1February 2011

250, Radiant Energy, subclasses 227.11+for optical sensing systems employinglight conductors and photocells.

324, Electricity: Measuring and Testing, subclass 96 for electrical testing usingoptical means and subclasses 244.1for a magnetometer that uses opticalmeans.

340, Communications: Electrical, sub-class 555 for light beam intrusiondetection and subclasses 853.1+ forwellbore testing.

346, Recorders, subclass 33 for wellborerecording.

356, Optics: Measuring and Testing, sub-class 73.1 for optical measuring andtesting for optical fiber/waveguideinspection.

367, Communications, Electrical: Acous-tic Wave System and Devices, sub-class 25 for wellbore telemetering andsubclasses 140+ for acoustic transduc-ers.

374, Thermal Measuring and Testing, sub-class 131 for thermal sensing usingoptical fibers.

13 Including physical deformation or move-ment of waveguide:This subclass is indented under subclass 12.Subject matter wherein the environmentalchange to be detected produces an alteration inthe shape or position of the waveguide.

(1) Note. Physical deformations include, forexample, cutting or breaking of thewaveguide, compressing or elongatingthe waveguide (or of the surroundingcoating/substrate), or microbending thewaveguide.

14 INTEGRATED OPTICAL CIRCUIT: This subclass is indented under the class defini-tion. Subject matter wherein a combination oftransparent, elongated structures or compo-nents are formed on a common substrate orchip of monolithic or hybrid construction.

(1) Note. Components in addition to theoptical waveguide might include activeoptical elements (e.g., LED) or passiveelements (e.g., lens).

(2) Note. An integrated optical circuitincluding a combination of an opticalwaveguide and a device of the Class 357type is classified here provided the com-bination does not meet the requirementof a still larger system class.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUB-CLASS:129, for a planar optical waveguide struc-

ture which can be (but is not necessar-ily) the starting point for manyintegrated optical circuits.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:257, Active Solid-State Devices (e.g.,

Transistors, Solid-State Diodes), sub-classes 13, 79-103 and 918 for inco-herent light emitting injection lumi-nescent devices, subclasses 80-85 forsemiconductor light emitting sourcescombined with semiconductor lightresponsive devices, subclasses 10, 11,21, 53-56, 72, 113-118, 184-189, 225-234, 257, 258, 290-294, 414, and 431-466 for light responsive active semi-conductor devices, and subclasses 446and 499+ for integrated circuitdevices with electrically isolated com-ponents, in general, and other appro-priate subclasses for specific typedevices in integrated circuits.

356, Optics: Measuring and Testing, sub-class 350 for optical ring laser gyroswhich are often integrated.

361, Electricity: Electrical Systems andDevices, subclasses 748 through796 + for connection of electricalintegrated circuits (not optical).

372, Coherent Light Generators, appropri-ate subclasses for details to a laser.

438, Semiconductor Device Manufactur-ing: Process, subclasses 24+ formethods of making a semiconductorintegrated circuit having both lightemissive and light responsive devices.

15 WITH OPTICAL COUPLER: This subclass is indented under the class defini-tion. Subject matter wherein an opticalwaveguide is combined with an interface ele-ment which enables efficient transfer of light


February 2011

between the waveguide and a point external tothe interface element.

(1) Note. For the purpose of this schedule,coupling is not the same as connecting.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUB-CLASS:53+, for mechanical connecting means

which are disconnectable withoutdestroying the optical element (e.g.,ferrule type connections).

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:250, Radiant Energy, subclasses 227.11+

for coupling of optical conductor(waveguide) system to photocell.

333, Wave Transmission Lines and Net-works, subclass 24 for coupling net-works for wave (e.g., microwave, mil-limeter wave, quasi-optical wave)transmission lines; subclasses 141,150 and 157 for delay lines of wavetransmission networks; and subclass209 for waveguide tunable filters forwave transmission networks.

356, Optics: Measuring and Testing, sub-class 352 for optical Fabry-Perot cavi-ties.

16 Switch (i.e., switching from one terminal toanother, not modulation):This subclass is indented under subclass 15.Subject matter wherein the output of an opticalwaveguide is selectively coupled to the input ofa different optical waveguide.

(1) Note. These couplings are not necessar-ily physically connected.

(2) Note. This subclass is for switchingwithout any specifically mentioned com-putation or modulation.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUB-CLASS:41, and 42, for directional couplers which

could be employed as switches andsubclasses 4+ for directional opticalmodulation in waveguides (e.g., forscanning).

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:200, Electricity: Circuit Makers and

Breakers, appropriate subclasses forelectrical switches.

310, Electrical Generator or Motor Struc-ture, subclasses 310+ for piezoelectricelements and devices.

348, Television, subclass 197 for opticalscanning with fiber optics.

359, Optical: Systems and Elements, sub-class 107 and 108 for switching uti-lized in optical computation; and sub-class 618 for light dividing andcombining arrangements utilizing sin-gle channel to /from plural channels.

398, Optical Communications, subclasses43 through 103 for an optical multi-plex communication system whichmay include an optical waveguide andswitch.

17 Matrix switch (i.e., M X N, where M and Nare 3 or more):This subclass is indented under subclass 16.Subject matter wherein a plurality of switchescan selectively couple light on any of M inputwaveguides to any of N output waveguideswhere the M input waveguides and the N out-put waveguides form a rectilinear array.

18 Reflective-type switch:This subclass is indented under subclass 16.Subject matter wherein selective coupling oflight between waveguides is achieved by mir-ror or mirrorlike elements.


classes 838+ for mirrors, in general.

19 Stationary waveguides with movable opaqueelement:This subclass is indented under subclass 16.Subject matter wherein an optically nontrans-missive device moving into or out of the opti-cal path between stationary waveguidesprovides the switching effect.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUB-CLASS:73, for optical fiber connectors having an

optical element between facing opti-cal fiber end faces.


1February 2011

140, for optical waveguide attenuators.


classes 227+ for light control by mov-ing an opaque element or medium inor through a light path.

20 Multiple pole multiple throw:This subclass is indented under subclass 16.Subject matter wherein the optical switch oper-ates to selectively couple light between a plu-rality of input waveguides and any one of theirrespective plurality of output waveguides.

(1) Note. Switching of all input waveguidestakes place simultaneously.

(2) Note. The number of output waveguidesassociated with each input waveguide isthe same.

21 Double pole multiple throw:This subclass is indented under subclass 20.Subject matter wherein the optical switch oper-ates to selectively couple light between a pairof input waveguides and any one of theirrespective plurality of output waveguides.

(1) Note. Switching of both inputwaveguides takes place simultaneously.

(2) Note. The number of output waveguidesassociated with each input waveguide isthe same.

22 Single pole multiple throw (relay switch):This subclass is indented under subclass 16.Subject matter wherein the optical switch oper-ates to selectively couple light from a singleinput waveguide to any one of a plurality ofoutput waveguides.

23 Single pole single throw:This subclass is indented under subclass 16.Subject matter wherein the optical switch oper-ates to selectively couple light from a singleinput waveguide to a single output waveguide.

24 Plural (e.g., data bus):This subclass is indented under subclass 15.Subject matter wherein an optical waveguide isused as a common trunk line to which a num-

ber of terminals can be interconnected throughoptical couplers.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUB-CLASS:46, Star coupler, for input only on one

specified input terminal which is dis-tributed to many terminals.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:341, Coded Data Generation or Conver-

sion, subclass 137 for analog to digi-tal and digital to analog conversionutilizing fiber optics.

345, Computer Graphics Processing andSelective Visual Display Systems, subclasses 180+ for light pens used asinput devices for visual display sys-tems with selective electrical control.

359, Optical: Systems and Elements, sub-class 118 for multiplexed optical localarea networks (LANS), subclass 127for wavelength division or frequencydivision multi-plexing by optical cou-pling; subclass 173 for optical com-munication systems including atransmitter, a receiver, and an opticalwaveguide; and subclasses 107+ foroptical computing.

365, Static Information Storage andRetrieval, subclass 112 for opticallyperformed static storage/retrieval ofdata.

369, Dynamic Information Storage orRetrieval, subclass 18 for opticallyperformed dynamic storage/retrievalof data.

379, Telephonic Communications, sub-classes 53 and 56 for optically per-formed telephonic communications.

25 Movable coupler:This subclass is indented under subclass 15.Subject matter wherein the coupler may berepositioned about a fixed optical waveguide.

26 Slip ring:This subclass is indented under subclass 25.Subject matter having a structure which per-mits coupling of light during relative rotarymotion of elements contained therein.

(1) Note. The most common slip-ring con-figuration is the rotor/stator arrange-


February 2011

ment, with either or both rotatingcontinuously with respect to each other,and with optical radiation continuouslybeing coupled across the gap.


class 554 for stabilization of imagestransmitted by means of optical ele-ments, and subclasses 211.1 through211.3 for scanning rotational prisms.

27 Particular coupling function:This subclass is indented under subclass 15.Subject matter wherein the coupling achieves aspecified operation on the light entering orexiting the waveguide.

28 Coupling between modes in a waveguide orfiber:This subclass is indented under subclass 27.Subject matter wherein coupling is achievedbetween light modes in an optical waveguide.

29 Mode strippers:This subclass is indented under subclass 28.Subject matter wherein a particular mode ormodes of light propagating in a waveguide isextracted by a coupler.

30 Evanescent wave coupling:This subclass is indented under subclass 27.Subject matter wherein the desired couplingfunction is achieved by matching the propaga-tion constants of light travelling in coupledwaveguides (also resulting in overlapping eva-nescent fields).

(1) Note. The structure of evanescent wavecouplers often includes the removal ofmost of the waveguide cladding materialin the actual coupling region.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:451, Abrading, subclasses 41+ for a pro-

cess of abrading a glass substrate (atypical technique for forming evanes-cent wave couplers).

31 Input/output coupler:This subclass is indented under subclass 15.Subject matter including an element which per-mits efficient transfer of light into or out of thewaveguide.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:398, Optical Communications, subclasses

79 through 81 for a communicationsystem which may include an opticalwaveguide and I/O coupler.

32 Coupling light through a waveguide bend orloop:This subclass is indented under subclass 31.Subject matter wherein light is coupled into orout of an optical waveguide through a curvedportion whose radius of curvature is smallerthan that required to confine light therein.

33 Lens:This subclass is indented under subclass 31.Subject matter wherein the coupling elementfocuses light by refraction.


classes 642+ for lens elements, per se,and subclasses 362+ for compoundlens systems.

34 Rod type:This subclass is indented under subclass 33.Subject matter wherein the coupling lens hasthe form of an elongated cylinder.

35 Spherical:This subclass is indented under subclass 33.Subject matter wherein the coupling lens hasthe form of a globe.

36 Prism:This subclass is indented under subclass 31.Subject matter wherein coupling is performedby a double refracting element.


classes 831+ for prism elements, perse.

37 Grating:This subclass is indented under subclass 31.Subject matter wherein coupling is performedby a diffraction grating.


1February 2011


classes 566+ for optical grating struc-ture and subclass 34 for holographicdiffraction elements in combinationwith optical waveguides.

38 End fire:This subclass is indented under subclass 31.Subject matter wherein the coupler comprisesthe optical medium immediately adjacent oneend of the waveguide.

39 Particular coupling structure:This subclass is indented under subclass 15.Subject matter wherein details of the structureof the coupler are recited.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUB-CLASS:27, for a specified function achieved by a

coupler.

40 Electrodes on or near the coupling region:This subclass is indented under subclass 39.Subject matter wherein electrically conductiveterminals are adjacent to an optical energytransfer zone.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUB-CLASS:2, for electro-optic temporal modulation

within a waveguide.8, for electro-optic directional modula-

tion within a waveguide.

41 Directional coupler:This subclass is indented under subclass 40.Subject matter wherein interconnected opticalpaths of a coupler are externally activated toenable input on a first optical path to be cou-pled only to a second optical path for opticalbeam transmission, and a received opticalbeam on a third optical path is coupled only tothe first optical path.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUB-CLASS:42, for directional couplers which do not

require an external electrical fieldstimulus for their operation.

42 Directional coupler:This subclass is indented under subclass 39.Subject matter wherein interconnected opticalpaths of a coupler enable input on a first opti-cal path to be coupled only to a second opticalpath for optical beam transmission and areceived optical beam on a third optical path iscoupled only to the first optical path.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUB-CLASS:41, for directional couplers which require

an external electrical field stimulusfor their operation.

43 Tapered coupler:This subclass is indented under subclass 39.Subject matter wherein a physical dimension oroptical characteristic of the waveguide core orcladding increases or decreases continuouslywith distance along the axis of the guide, andwherein this increase or decrease in dimensionis essential to the coupling function.

(1) Note. Included here are the 'biconicallytapered, fused optical fiber couplers'(both single mode and multimode).

44 'T' coupler or duplex coupler:This subclass is indented under subclass 39.Subject matter wherein the coupler has twoperpendicular waveguide legs forming a teewhich connects an input port to two outputports or two input ports to a single output port.

45 'Y' coupler:This subclass is indented under subclass 39.Subject matter wherein the coupler has threewaveguide legs joined at the center in a 'Y'shape which connects an input port to two out-put ports or two input ports to a single outputport.

(1) Note. This differs from a 'T' coupleronly in the geometrical configuration ofthe three legs.

46 Star coupler:This subclass is indented under subclass 39.Subject matter wherein a passive coupler dis-tributes light from one or more inputwaveguides among a larger number of outputwaveguides.


February 2011

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUB-CLASS:24, for an optical data bus.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:398, Optical Communications, subclasses

61 through 64 for optically multi-plexed local area networks (LANS)utilizing active and passive Star cou-plers.

47 Multiport coupler using reflective surface:This subclass is indented under subclass 39.Subject matter wherein an optical beam is cou-pled to plural zones by mirror type elements.

(1) Note. This includes a beam splitter con-taining a reflective surface.


class 618 for beam splitters and com-biners in other optical arrangements.

48 Access couplers, power tappers, or powerdividers:This subclass is indented under subclass 39.Subject matter wherein the coupler structurepermits optical linking with a waveguide with-out providing a load thereto.

49 Fiber to thin film devices:This subclass is indented under subclass 39.Subject matter wherein at least one opticalfiber and at least one thin film optical deviceare coupled to allow efficient light propagationtherebetween.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUB-CLASS:88, for connector structures involving at

least one optical fiber and at least onenonfiber optical device.

50 Waveguide to waveguide:This subclass is indented under subclass 39.Subject matter wherein two or more opticalwaveguides are coupled to allow efficient lightpropagation therebetween.

(1) Note. The waveguides may be planar orfiber type.

51 Permanently fixed coupler:This subclass is indented under subclass 15.Subject matter wherein the optical waveguideand coupler are physically joined together by apermanent connection (e.g., welding, epoxy, oradhesive putty).

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUB-CLASS:91, for permanently fixed connections be-

tween optical fibers and nonfiber de-vices.

95, for optical fiber waveguide splice ar-rangements.

52 With alignment device:This subclass is indented under subclass 15.Subject matter including a device which main-tains the mutual spatial orientation betweencoupled waveguides.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUB-CLASS:136, for external retainers.137, for optical fiber holders.

53 WITH DISENGAGEABLE MECHANI-CAL CONNECTOR:This subclass is indented under the class defini-tion. Subject matter wherein an optical fiber oroptical fiber bundle is combined with structureutilized in the reversible mechanical joining ofthe fiber or bundle with another such combina-tion or with an individual fiber, bundle, orbroadly recited optical device.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUB-CLASS:95+, for a permanent-type connection (i.e.,

splice).

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:361, Electricity: Electrical Systems and

Devices, subclasses 748 through796 + for electrical connection toprinted circuit boards.

425, Plastic Article or Earthenware Shap-ing or Treating: Apparatus, subclass802 for cable tube or rod splicing.

439, Electrical Connectors, for electricalconnector structure in general.


1February 2011

54 Structure surrounding optical fiber bundle-to-bundle connection:This subclass is indented under subclass 53.Subject matter wherein the joining of a fiberbundle to another is secured by a device envel-oping the junction.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUB-CLASS:55, for structure surrounding fiber-to-

fiber connection.115, for optical fiber bundles, per se.

55 Structure surrounding optical fiber-to-fiberconnection:This subclass is indented under subclass 53.Subject matter wherein the joining of an indi-vidual fiber to another is secured by an elementenveloping the junction.

(1) Note. This includes, for example, exten-sive sleeve structure.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUB-CLASS:54, for structure surrounding bundle-to-

bundle connection.123, for optical fiber waveguides, per se.

56 Multi-part (e.g., two pieces screwed togetheror bayonet latched):This subclass is indented under subclass 55.Subject matter wherein the enveloping elementconsists of a plurality of interengaging partseach associated with an individual fiber.

57 Magnetically actuated:This subclass is indented under subclass 56.Subject matter wherein the multi-part connec-tion is achieved by applying a magnetic field.

58 With additional structure at or immediatelysurrounding each optical fiber end face:This subclass is indented under subclass 56.Subject matter including details of structure ator near the terminal surface of a fiber containedwithin the connector.

59 Plural fiber-to-fiber connections:This subclass is indented under subclass 58.Subject matter wherein pairs of correspondingmultiple fibers are connected in a specifiedmanner.

60 Fiber end held in ferrule:This subclass is indented under subclass 58.Subject matter wherein one end of the fiber iscontained in a strengthening terminal elementhaving an aperture comparable in size to thefiber cross-sectional diameter.

61 Lens-shaped ferrule:This subclass is indented under subclass 60.Subject matter wherein the ferrule is transpar-ent and has a refracting outer surface.

(1) Note. This subclass also includes thoseferrules having a separate lens there-within.


classes 642+ for a lens element, perse.

62 Compressively fixed (e.g., chuck, collet,crimp, set screws, etc.):This subclass is indented under subclass 60.Subject matter wherein the fiber is locked inplace within the ferrule by applying mechani-cal pressure.

63 Plate-type holding structure (e.g., jewel):This subclass is indented under subclass 60.Subject matter wherein the ferrule has a planarsurface through which the fiber passes.

(1) Note. 'Jewels' are made of a very hardmaterial and have an accuratelymachined hole therein for accommodat-ing the optical fiber.

64 Plural rods or balls structure:This subclass is indented under subclass 60.Subject matter wherein the ferrule includesmultiple elongated or spherical components.

65 Groove-type holding structure:This subclass is indented under subclass 60.Subject matter wherein the fiber is supportedwithin the ferrule by a structure having a sur-face recess parallel to the long axis of the fiber.

66 Tube-type holding structure:This subclass is indented under subclass 60.Subject matter wherein the fiber is supportedwithin the ferrule by a cylindrical structure.


February 2011

67 Eccentric arrangement:This subclass is indented under subclass 66.Subject matter wherein the tube is arranged sothat its longitudinal axis is parallel to, butspaced from, the longitudinal axis of the fer-rule; thereby, making it off-center with respectto the ferrule.

68 Capillary tubes:This subclass is indented under subclass 66.Subject matter wherein the tube holding thefiber has a bore which is just slightly largerthan the diameter of the fiber itself.

69 With additional structure rearward of fiberjoint to secure additional cable layers:This subclass is indented under subclass 56.Subject matter which includes structure offsetfrom the fiber joint in a direction along thefiber axis where such structure prevents undes-ired motion of layers concentric with and out-side of the fiber itself.

(1) Note. The additional cable layers maybe secured by means of adhesive, bycrimping, etc.

(2) Note. This subclass includes the so-called 'cable joints'.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:285, Pipe Joints or Couplings, subclass

260 for pliable, nonmetallic pipe cou-plings.

70 With additional structure at or immediatelysurrounding each optical fiber end face:This subclass is indented under subclass 55.Subject matter detailing structure at or near theterminal surface of a fiber contained within theconnector.

(1) Note. This subclass differs from sub-class 56 in that a single mechanicalstructure surrounding the joint isaddressed, whereas subclass 56 requiresseparate mechanical structure associatedwith each side of the joint and with theseparate structures being interengaged(e.g., screwed together).

71 Plural fiber-to-fiber connections:This subclass is indented under subclass 70.Subject matter wherein the fiber structuresjoined each include multiple fibers.

72 Fiber end held in ferrule:This subclass is indented under subclass 70.Subject matter wherein the terminal edge of afiber is supported and protected by an elementwhich has an opening for the fiber.

73 With additional optical element betweenfacing fiber ends:This subclass is indented under subclass 55.Subject matter wherein there is a componentperforming an optical function which is locatedbetween the fiber and its mating fiber.

(1) Note. The optical elements include fil-ters, apertures, index matching media,etc.

74 Lens:This subclass is indented under subclass 73.Subject matter wherein the optical componentfocuses transiting light waves.



75 With additional nonoptical structure:This subclass is indented under subclass 55.Subject matter including supplemental struc-ture not having an optical function.

(1) Note. This includes, for example, elec-trically conducting elements which aremated simultaneously with the opticalelements.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:439, Electrical Connectors, appropriate

subclasses for purely electrical con-nectors.

76 Optical fiber/optical fiber cable terminationstructure:This subclass is indented under subclass 53.Subject matter detailing structure situated atthe end of one fiber or fiber cable which is toform one half of the optical junction.


1February 2011

77 At or immediately surrounding an opticalfiber end face:This subclass is indented under subclass 76.Subject matter detailing structure at or concen-tric with the terminal surface of a fiber.

78 Fiber end held in ferrule:This subclass is indented under subclass 77. wherein one end of the fiber is contained in astrengthening terminal element having an aper-ture comparable in size to the fiber cross-sec-tional diameter.

79 Lens-shaped ferrule:This subclass is indented under subclass 78.Subject matter wherein the ferrule is shaped insuch a fashion that it focuses light at a predeter-mined point.

(1) Note. This subclass also includes thoseferrules having a separate lens there-within.

80 Adhesively fixed:This subclass is indented under subclass 78.Subject matter wherein the fiber is secured tothe ferrule with glue.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:156, Adhesive Bonding and Miscella-

neous Chemical Manufacture, appro-priate subclasses.

81 Compressively fixed (chuck, collet, crimp,set screw, etc.):This subclass is indented under subclass 78.Subject matter wherein the fiber is secured tothe ferrule by a structure providing mechanicalpressure.

82 Plural rods or balls structure:This subclass is indented under subclass 78.Subject matter wherein the ferrule includesmultiple elongated or spherical components.

83 Groove-type holding structure:This subclass is indented under subclass 78.Subject matter wherein the fiber is supported ina structure which has a recessed slot parallel tothe longitudinal axis of the fiber.

84 Tube-type holding structure:This subclass is indented under subclass 78.Subject matter wherein the fiber is supportedwithin the ferrule by a cylindrical structure.

(1) Note. Included here are terminating fer-rules with capillary tube structure andeccentrically arranged tube structure.

85 Fiber/ferrule further processed (grinding,polishing, etc.):This subclass is indented under subclass 78.Subject matter including treatment of the fiber/ferrule assembly.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:65, Glass Manufacturing, appropriate

subclasses for glassworking.83, Cutting, subclass 913 for cutting opti-

cal fibers or filaments.156, Adhesive Bonding and Miscella-

neous Chemical Manufacture, sub-classes 625+ for etching processes.

225, Severing by Tearing or Breaking, subclass 94 for apparatus for scribingthen breaking optical fibers.

451, Abrading, subclasses 41+ for a pro-cess of abrading optical fibers.

86 Structure rearward of optical fiber end faceto secure additional fiber or cable layers:This subclass is indented under subclass 76.Subject matter which includes structure offsetfrom the fiber end in a direction along the fiberaxis where such structure prevents undesiredmotion of layers concentric with and outside ofthe fiber itself.

87 Having at least one layer compressivelyfixed (e.g., crimp, tightening screws, etc.):This subclass is indented under subclass 86.Subject matter wherein a layer is secured by astructure which exerts a mechanical pressurethereupon.

88 Optical fiber to a nonfiber optical deviceconnector:This subclass is indented under subclass 53.Subject matter wherein a device for mechani-cally joining a fiber to an additional opticaldevice is recited.


February 2011

(1) Note. Typical nonfiber optical devicescould include semiconductor lasers,LED's, photodiodes, etc. However,where significant detail to the nonfiberdevice is recited, classification is else-where. See SEARCH CLASS notesbelow.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:250, Radiant Energy, subclasses 227.11+

for optical fiber waveguides in a pre-photo-cell system.

257, Active Solid-State Devices (e.g.,Transistors, Solid-State Diodes), sub-classes 13, 79-103 and 918 for inco-herent light emitting injection lumi-nescent devices, subclasses 80-85 forsemiconductor light emitting sourcescombined with semiconductor lightresponsive devices, subclasses 10, 11,21, 53-56, 72, 113-118, 184-189, 225-234, 257, 258, 290-294, 414, and 431-466 for light responsive active semi-conductor devices, and subclasses 446and 499+ for integrated circuitdevices with electrically isolated com-ponents, in general, and other appro-priate subclasses for specific typedevices in integrated circuits.

89 Plural fiber/device connections:This subclass is indented under subclass 88.Subject matter detailing connection betweensingle fiber to plural de-vices, plural fibers to asingle device, or a plurality of paired fiber/device connections.

90 Fiber adjustable relative to device:This subclass is indented under subclass 88.Subject matter including structure to repositionthe fiber relative to the device.

91 Fiber permanently fixed after adjustment:This subclass is indented under subclass 90.Subject matter wherein the fiber is locked inplace relative to the second device, for exam-ple, by adhesive means or by soldering, etc.

92 With housing:This subclass is indented under subclass 88. wherein the connec-tion is enclosed in a pro-tective structure.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:361, Electricity: Electrical Systems and

Devices, subclasses 600+ for genericelectrical housings.

93 Including lens:This subclass is indented under subclass 92.Subject matter wherein the housing incorpo-rates a focusing device therein.



94 Sealed from environment:This subclass is indented under subclass 92.Subject matter wherein the housing provides ahermetic barrier between the connection andambient conditions.

95 WITH SPLICE (PERMANENT CONNEC-TION):This subclass is indented under the class defini-tion. Subject matter where-in two fibers arejoined together in such a fashion that they maynot be subsequently separated.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUB-CLASS:53+, for a disengageable mechanical opti-

cal connector.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:65, Glass Manufacturing, subclasses 4.1

through 4.3 for methods of joiningglass optical fibers.

156, Adhesive Bonding and Miscella-neous Chemical Manufacture, sub-class 158 for methods of bondingfibers (of indefinite length) end-to-end.

219, Electric Heating, subclasses 121.36+for methods and apparatus for fusionsplicing optical fibers.

425, Plastic Article or Earthenware Shap-ing or Treating: Apparatus, subclass802 for cable tube or rod splicing.

96 Fusion splicing:This subclass is indented under subclass 95.Subject matter wherein the splice is formed byhigh temperature melting and rejoining.


1February 2011

97 Alignment of fiber ends prior to splicing:This subclass is indented under subclass 95.Subject matter wherein a particular orientationbetween the fibers to be spliced is specified.

98 End-to-end (butt) coupling:This subclass is indented under subclass 97.Subject matter wherein the two fibers are colin-ear and are joined end-to-end.

99 Including splice joint reinforcement:This subclass is indented under subclass 95.Subject matter wherein structure is provided tostrengthen the spliced connection.

100 OPTICAL TRANSMISSION CABLE:This subclass is indented under the class defini-tion. Subject matter wherein an optical fiber orfibers are incorporated into an assembly thatprovides tensile strength and external protec-tion for the fibers.

(1) Note. If significant electrical structure isclaimed, classification is in Class 174.

(2) Note. This subclass includes opticalfiber cables having additional transmis-sion means such as electrical conductorswithin the cable where the optical fiberstransmit light.

(3) Note. Sometimes the optical fiberswithin the cable are helically or reversehelical (S-Z) wound in order to provideprotection thereto.

(4) Note. A single optical conductor with aprotective coating not providing tensilestrength is classified in subclass 128. Asingle conductor with cladding not usedfor protection is classified in subclasses123+.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUB-CLASS:115+, for an optical fiber bundle which is

not in an assembly providing tensilestrength and external protectionthereto.

123+, for an optical fiber waveguide withcladding, per se.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:57, Textiles: Spinning, Twisting, and

Twining, subclasses 3 through 19 forcable forming when twisting isinvolved.

138, Pipes and Tubular Conduits, appro-priate subclasses for cable containingducts.

174, Electricity: Conductors and Insula-tors, subclasses 68.1+ for electricalcable structure in general.

226, Advancing Material of IndeterminateLength, subclasses 1 through 8 foradvancing fibers through tubes (i.e.,so as to form cables).

242, Winding, Tensioning, or Guiding,especially subclass 920 for winding aglass strand.

101 With electrical conductor in the same cable:This subclass is indented under subclass 100.Subject matter wherein the optical cable addi-tionally contains an electrical conductortherein.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:174, Electricity: Conductors and Insula-

tors, subclass 70 for a combined elec-trical/optical cable having significantelectrical cable detail.

102 Tightly confined (i.e., fiber tightly heldinside the outer sheath):This subclass is indented under subclass 100.Subject matter wherein adjacent optical fiber orfibers have their collective movementrestricted by a surrounding sheath and strengthelement of the cable.

(1) Note. Included in this subclass are thosetightly confined cables having a strengthelement (e.g., a steel wire) external to theprimary cable structure.

103 Having a central strength member:This subclass is indented under subclass 102.Subject matter wherein the tightly confinedcable includes at its center an element whichprevents excessive cable bending.

(1) Note. The strength member can be madeof metal, plastic, yarn, etc.


February 2011

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUB-CLASS:113, for loose tube type cable with strength

member.

104 Particular fiber orientation (e.g., helicallywound, etc.):This subclass is indented under subclass 102.Subject matter wherein the fibers within acable have a specified spatial interrelationship(for example, helically wound, S-Z stranded,etc.).

105 Compartmentalized:This subclass is indented under subclass 102.Subject matter wherein the optical fibers withina cable are grouped and each group is kept dis-tinct by a separator.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUB-CLASS:110, for compartmentalized loose tube type

cable.

106 Plural unit type(plural complete cableswithin a single outside sheath):This subclass is indented under subclass 102.Subject matter wherein multiple completecables are confined within a single outsidesheath.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUB-CLASS:112, for plural unit loose tube type cables.

107 With armoring:This subclass is indented under subclass 102.Subject matter wherein the optical fibers of thecable are encased in a concentric metallicsleeve or in a sleeve made of a plurality ofarmor wires.

108 Prestressed:This subclass is indented under subclass 107.Subject matter wherein the armoring ismechanically stressed prior to application tothe cable.

(1) Note. The stress can be compression ortension.

109 Loose tube type:This subclass is indented under subclass 100.Subject matter wherein the individual fiberswithin a transmission cable are loosely con-fined within an outer elongated sheathingstructure.

(1) Note. The fibers can move when stressis applied to the cable or when the cableis flexed.

110 Compartmentalized:This subclass is indented under subclass 109.Subject matter wherein the optical fibers withina cable are grouped and each group is kept dis-tinct by a separator.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUB-CLASS:105, for compartmentalized tightly con-

fined cable.

111 Particular fiber orientation:This subclass is indented under subclass 109.Subject matter wherein the fibers are placedwithin the tube in a particular spatial interrela-tionship (e.g., helically wound, s-z stranded,etc.).

112 Plural unit type:This subclass is indented under subclass 109.Subject matter wherein multiple optical loosetube cables are placed together into one largecable.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUB-CLASS:106, for plural unit tightly confined cables.

113 With strength member:This subclass is indented under subclass 109.Subject matter wherein the optical cableincludes an element preventing excessivebending thereof.

(1) Note. The strength element can be madeof metal, plastic, yarn, etc.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUB-CLASS:103, for tightly confined cable with central

strength member.


1February 2011

114 Ribbon cable:This subclass is indented under subclass 100.Subject matter wherein a cable is formed ofplural parallel optical fibers lying in a singleplane.

(1) Note. The ribbon cable may or may notinclude strength member elements.

115 OPTICAL FIBER BUNDLE:This subclass is indented under the class defini-tion. Subject matter wherein an assemblage ofindividual optical fibers are placed adjacentone another to guide light collectively.

(1) Note. Nonimaging optical fiber bundlesare used primarily for illumination, orna-mentation, and display. Optical fiberbundles are rarely used in data transmis-sion.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUB-CLASS:100+, for an optical transmission cable

which provides protection to thefibers therein.

123+, for an optical fiber waveguide withcladding, per se.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:40, Card, Picture, or Sign Exhibiting,

subclasses 546 through 547 for illu-minated signs using optical fiber bun-dles.

340, Communications: Electrical, sub-classes 815.42+ for visual indicatorsutilizing light piping (i.e., optical fiberbundles).

362, Illumination, subclasses 551+ for illu-mination utilizing optical fibers.

116 Imaging (i.e., with coherent fiber structureand includes shaping, enhancing, and cor-recting):This subclass is indented under subclass 115.Subject matter wherein images can be transmit-ted through a fiber bundle by having the indi-vidual fiber ends similarly arranged at oppositebundle ends.

(1) Note. An imaging optical fiber bundle isalso known as a 'coherent' bundle.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:345, Computer Graphics Processing and

Selective Visual Display Systems, subclasses 1.1 through 3.4 for visualdisplay systems with selective electri-cal control wherein the display systemmay include fiber optics.

399, Electrophotography, subclass 137 foroptical intermediate storage of origi-nal image formation, subclasses 196+for variable magnification, subclass218 for exposure lens, and subclass219 for exposure of an image forma-tion having fiber optics.

117 For fiber scope (endoscope):This subclass is indented under subclass 116.Subject matter wherein the imaging fiber bun-dle is used in an instrument to transmit animage of a remote location to the viewing endof the fiber bundle.

(1) Note. If the fiber scope is adapted foruse in a particular art area, classificationis in the art area; otherwise, classifica-tion is in this class (385).

(2) Note. Fiber scopes may contain both acoherent fiber optic bundle (for imaging)and a noncoherent bundle (for illumina-tion).

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:348, Television, subclasses 65+ for video

endoscopes.356, Optics: Measuring and Testing, sub-

classes 241.1+ for inspection bores-copes.

359, Optical: Systems and Elements, sub-class 367 for a compound lens rightangle inspector.

607, Surgery: Light, Thermal, and Electri-cal Application, subclasses 1+ forlight applying instruments.

118 With manipulator:This subclass is indented under subclass 117.Subject matter wherein the fiber scope is com-bined with structure for manipulation thereof(i.e., sideways, rotational or longitudinal move-ment).


February 2011

(1) Note. Such manipulation can be auto-matically controlled (e.g., wall-climb-ing) or can be remotely operated (e.g.,control wires).

119 With lens or mirror:This subclass is indented under subclass 116.Subject matter wherein the imaging bundle iscombined with an element having two refract-ing edges or is combined with a reflectivedevice.


classes 642+ for lenses, per se, andsubclasses 838+ for mirrors, per se.

399, Electrophotography, subclass 137 foroptical intermediate storage of origi-nal image formation, subclasses 196+for variable magnification, subclass218 for exposure lens, and subclass219 for exposure of an image forma-tion having fiber optics.

120 Fiber bundle plate:This subclass is indented under subclass 115.Subject matter wherein the plural fibers are ter-minated in a single planar structure.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:313, Electric Lamp and Discharge Devices,

subclass 372 for CRT's having opticalfiber array structures.

348, Television, subclasses 359 and 804for television systems employing fiberoptic arrays.

355, Photocopying, subclass 1 for a photo-copier with optical fiber arrays.

399, Electrophotography, subclass 137 foroptical intermediate storage of origi-nal image formation and subclass 219for exposure of an image formationhaving fiber optics.

121 Transition between geometric shapes:This subclass is indented under subclass 115.Subject matter wherein the fibers in the bundleare geometrically distributed to match theshape of an additional waveguiding structurewith which the bundle is to interact.

122 HAVING NONLINEAR PROPERTY:This subclass is indented under the class defini-tion. Subject matter wherein an opticalwaveguide material having a strong second (orhigher) order response function to optical radi-ation is recited.

(1) Note. The nonlinear property couldinclude Rayleigh, Brillouin, Raman scat-tering, etc.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:252, Compositions, subclasses 582+ for

light transmission modifying compo-sitions.

359, Optical: Systems and Elements, sub-class 240 for light wave temporalmodulation via a nonlinear deviceoutside of an optical waveguide, sub-class 255 for electro-optic polariza-tion modulation by a nonlineardevice, and subclasses 328+ for opti-cal harmonic generators which coulduse nonlinear optics.

123 OPTICAL FIBER WAVEGUIDE WITHCLADDING:This subclass is indented under the class defini-tion. Subject matter wherein a low refractiveindex sheathing or covering surrounds a higherindex of refraction core of an optical fiber, inorder to confine light in the core by means oftotal internal reflection.

(1) Note. The fiber waveguides of this sub-class are of generally cylindrical config-uration.

(2) Note. Planar type optical waveguidesare provided for in subclass 129.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUB-CLASS:100+, for an optical transmission cable

which provides protection to thefibers therein.

115+, for an optical fiber bundle.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:65, Glass Manufacturing, subclasses

385+ for processes of forming opticalfibers or waveguides, particularlysubclasses 413+ for processes of


1February 2011

depositing a clad by vapor deposition;subclasses 420+ for processes of dop-ing a clad; and subclass 405 for pro-cesses of simultaneously forming cladand core.

264, Plastic and Nonmetallic Article Shap-ing or Treating: Processes, sub-classes 1.24+ for shaping, treating, orextruding optical fibers, waveguides,or preforms.

428, Stock Material or Miscellaneous Arti-cles, subclasses 364+ for fiber stockmaterial.

505, Superconductor Technology: Appara-tus, Material, Process, appropriatesubclasses for superconductors whichcould be in optical fiber form.

124 With graded index core or cladding:This subclass is indented under subclass 123.Subject matter wherein the index of refractionof the core or cladding material varies axiallyor radially.

125 Utilizing nonsolid core or cladding:This subclass is indented under subclass 123.Subject matter wherein the core or claddingmaterial is a liquid or gas.

126 Utilizing multiple core or cladding:This subclass is indented under subclass 123.Subject matter wherein a single waveguideincludes plural cladding or core layers.

127 Concentric:This subclass is indented under subclass 126.Subject matter wherein the various core andcladding layers are nested cylinders.

128 Where the second or further layer is a coat-ing:This subclass is indented under subclass 127.Subject matter wherein a coating having nooptical property forms an external protectivelayer around the core.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:106, Compositions: Coating or Plastic,

appropriate subclasses for coating orplastic compositions.

204, Chemistry: Electrical and WaveEnergy, subclass 192.29 for sputtercoating onto an optical fiberwaveguide.

260, Chemistry of Carbon Compounds, appropriate subclasses for syntheticresins and organic compounds.

427, Coating Processes, subclass 162 and163.1+ for processes of coating opti-cal fibers, filaments, rods, orwaveguides.

129 PLANAR OPTICAL WAVEGUIDE:This subclass is indented under the class defini-tion. Subject matter wherein the optically con-ductive material includes a flat surface confin-ing the optical beam therein.

(1) Note. Cylindrically configured opticalwaveguides are provided for in subclass123.

(2) Note. This may include planarwaveguides having imaging elementstherein (e.g., Luneberg lens).

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:117, Single-Crystal, Oriented-Crystal, and

Epitaxy Growth Processes; Non-Coat-ing Apparatus Therefor, for pro-cesses and non-coating apparatus forgrowing therein-defined single-crystalof all types of materials, includingorganic or inorganic, and includingthose suitable as or to produce an opti-cal waveguide.

204, Chemistry: Electrical and WaveEnergy, subclass 192.29 for sputtercoating onto an optical fiberwaveguide.

130 Thin film optical waveguide:This subclass is indented under subclass 129.Subject matter wherein the structure that isused to confine and guide the light throughmodal transmission is a dielectric rib, planar, orchannel waveguide.

(1) Note. The thin-film is a thin layer oflight transmitting material, usuallydeposited by sputtering or evaporation,that may be made in a pattern to form anoptical waveguide on, or adjacent to, asupporting substrate.

(2) Note. This subclass includes gradedindex thin-film waveguides.


February 2011


class 332 for a dielectric opticalwaveguide used in frequency convert-ers.

131 Multilayer structure (mixture):This subclass is indented under subclass 130.Subject matter wherein the optical waveguideis formed from a plurality of layers for thetransmission of light therethrough.

(1) Note. This might include, for example, asemiconductor npn layer structure form-ing an optical waveguide structure.

132 Channel waveguide:This subclass is indented under subclass 130.Subject matter wherein the waveguide consistsof a channel or depression in the depositeddielectric providing a light path therethrough.

133 OPTICAL IMAGING TUNNEL:This subclass is indented under the class defini-tion. Subject matter wherein an optical devicehaving internally reflecting inner walls is capa-ble of producing multiple images of a pointsource.


classes 894+ for optical apertures,tubes, or transparent closures.

134 ACCESSORIES:This subclass is indented under the class defini-tion. Subject matter which are devices particu-larly adapted to be used with optical fibers orother waveguide structures.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:33, Geometrical Instruments, subclass 1

for optical readout and subclasses227-299 for straightline light ray typeinstruments.

433, Dentistry, subclass 29 for optical den-tal tools.

135 Splice box and surplus fiber storage/trays/organizers/carriers:This subclass is indented under subclass 134.Subject matter wherein a structure is providedin which one or more fibers may be organized

and placed in their required position for propercoupling of optical energy between them.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:211, Supports: Racks, subclasses 13.1+

for special article supports (racks).

136 External retainer/clamp:This subclass is indented under subclass 134.Subject matter wherein an external device isused to provide support to an optical fiber,cable, fiber bundle, or waveguide.

(1) Note. Included here are pulling eyes,etc.

137 Fiber holder (i.e., for single fiber or holdingmultiple single fibers together):This subclass is indented under subclass 136.Subject matter wherein the retainer is particu-larly adapted to hold a single fiber or to holdplural single fibers together.

(1) Note. These are neither connectors orconnector terminals, but rather chucktype structures.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:248, Supports, appropriate subclasses for

supports in general.269, Work Holders, appropriate subclasses

for work holders in general.279, Chucks or Sockets, appropriate sub-

classes for chucks in general.

138 Bushing structure (e.g., penetrator):This subclass is indented under subclass 134.Subject matter wherein the accessory is an ele-ment insertable through a structure and thisaccessary forms a lining in the opening therebyprotecting an optical fiber or cable passingtherethrough.

(1) Note. The opening is through a wall orbulkhead, for example.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:174, Electricity: Conductors and Insula-

tors, subclass 70 for submarine cablerepeater housings and subclasses152+ for an electrical cable bushing.


1February 2011

139 Plug/termination device:This subclass is indented under subclass 134.Subject matter wherein the accessory is an ele-ment protecting the end of an optical fiber fromthe environment.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUB-CLASS:76+, for connector terminal structure.

140 Attenuator:This subclass is indented under subclass 134.Subject matter involving a device whichreduces the intensity of light entering or exitinga waveguide.


classes 599+ for diffusion, subclasses885+ for absorption filters, and sub-classes 227+ for moving discreteopaque elements into or out of lightpaths.

141 HAVING PARTICULAR OPTICALCHARACTERISTIC MODIFYINGCHEMICAL COMPOSITION:This subclass is indented under the class defini-tion. Subject matter wherein chemical struc-ture which changes a particular light waveparameter is recited.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:106, Compositions: Coating or Plastic,

appropriate subclasses for plasticcompositions.

252, Compositions, appropriate subclassesfor compositions in general.

260, Chemisty of Carbon Compounds, appropriate subclasses for syntheticresins and organic compounds.

423, Chemistry of Inorganic Compounds, appropriate subclasses for inorganicchemistry.

501, Compositions: Ceramic, subclass 37for ceramic optical fiber composi-tions.

142 Of waveguide core:This subclass is indented under subclass 141.Subject matter wherein the chemical details ofthe central light conveying portion of the

waveguide which has a relatively high refrac-tive index are recited.

143 Organic:This subclass is indented under subclass 142.Subject matter wherein the compositionincludes carbon.

144 Of waveguide cladding:This subclass is indented under subclass 141.Subject matter wherein the chemical details ofthe concentric coating which has a relativelylow refractive index and which immediatelysurrounds the waveguide core are recited.

145 Organic:This subclass is indented under subclass 144.Subject matter wherein the compositionincludes carbon.

146 NONCYLINDRICAL OR NONPLANARSHAPED WAVEGUIDE:This subclass is indented under the class defini-tion. Subject matter wherein the cross sectionof the waveguide is neither circular nor flat.

147 MISCELLANEOUS:This subclass is indented under the class defini-tion. Subject matter not provided for in any ofthe preceding subclasses.

CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS

900 SOLAR COLLECTOR OR TRANSMIT-TER:Art collection relating to devices for the gather-ing or distribution of light from the sun whichutilize optical waveguides.

901 ILLUMINATING OR DISPLAY APPARA-TUS:Art collection of optical waveguides utilized inlighting or sign-type devices.

902 NONBUNDLE FIBERSCOPE DEVICES:Art collection of viewing devices of diverseutility which are formed from other than anoptical fiber bundle.

END

Documents

February 2011 CLASSIFICATION DEFINITIONS 385 - 1 …The optical fibers and waveguides ... including optical waveguides, and subclass 454 ... subclass 484 for scanning with fiber optics