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High density optical data storage

  • US 6,999,657 B2
  • Filed: 05/28/2004
  • Issued: 02/14/2006
  • Est. Priority Date: 05/28/2003
  • Status: Expired due to Fees
First Claim
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1. A data storage apparatus comprising:

  • (1) an array of optical fibers, the array having a first end and a second end, wherein(a) the first end of the array comprises multiple optical fiber ends, each optical fiber end having an end face adapted for receiving light of a wavelength λ

    into the fiber for conveyance to the second end of the fiber array; and

    (b) the second end of the array comprises multiple tapered optical fiber tips, each tapered optical fiber end having a minimum diameter less than λ

    ;

    (2) an opaque coating covering a portion of the tapered optical fiber tips;

    (3) a photochromic medium located within a distance λ

    of the second end of the array, and(4) a means for directing light of the wavelength λ

    selectively into individual optical fibers of the array at the first end of the array.

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