Light generator for optical fibers

摘要

The generator comprises a lamp (1) within a box (8) with the end of an optical fibre (7) attached to the box. An electrical supply circuit is provided for the lamp, with a cooling fan comprising a blade (11) driven by a motor. The lamp sits within a reflector (3) and behind a lens (4) directing the output light on to the end of the optical fibre bundle. An optical detector (17) is provided to sense the rotation of the blades of the fan. This detector is coupled to the circuit (13) which is used to control the lamp, such that if the fan blades are not turning, the lamp is turned off to prevent over-heating. The optical detector may operate in the infrared region, responding to radiation which is reflected from the blades of the fan. The blades may carry special reflective elements.