Title :
Submicron alignment of a two-dimensional array of multiple single-mode fibers
Author :
Luetzelschwab, M. ; Weiland, D. ; Desmulliez, M.P.Y.
Author_Institution :
Microsystems Eng. Centre, Heriot Watt Univ., Edinburgh, UK
Abstract :
This letter presents a patented method to align single- or multimode optical fibers on top of an optoelectronic emitter array. Electrostatic forces are used to align copper-coated optical fibers within adhesive filled holes. The manufacturing and alignment performance of a microholder with a hole diameter of 1000 μm are fully characterized. The outer diameter of the optical single-mode fiber is 125 μm including the cladding. A submicron alignment accuracy can be inferred from the measurements taken. The sensitivity of the alignment procedure has been found to be between 0.25 and 1 μm per volt depending on the clamping distance. The combination of the electrostatic movement and the optical monitoring of the fiber position in a closed-loop feedback system yield a highly accurate and sensitive active alignment system.
Keywords :
electrostatic actuators; micro-optics; microassembling; optical arrays; optical fibre cladding; optical fibre fabrication; optical fibre testing; 125 mum; adhesive filled holes; closed-loop feedback system; copper-coated optical fibers; electrostatic actuation; electrostatic forces; fiber position; microassembly; microholder alignment performance; multimode optical fibers; multiple single-mode fibers; optical fiber alignment; optical monitoring; optoelectronic emitter array; submicron alignment; two-dimensional fiber array; Electrodes; Electrostatic measurements; Manufacturing; Optical arrays; Optical feedback; Optical fiber devices; Optical fibers; Optical interconnections; Optical sensors; Voltage; Microassembly; microelectromechanical devices; optical coupling; optical fiber couplers;
Journal_Title :
Photonics Technology Letters, IEEE
DOI :
10.1109/LPT.2005.859531