Microlenses for integrated optical devices

摘要

The invention provides integrated optical matching elements for use in integrated optical devices. The matching elements each comprise one or more lenses. The lenses may have low index contrast with the surrounding medium. Required dioptric power is achieved by using a train of lenses. Optical matching elements according to the invention can be used to enhance the optical coupling between channel waveguides and slab waveguides. The insertion loss of devices such as optical power splitters, optical couplers and arrayed waveguide grating routers can be reduced by incorporating optical matching elements according to the invention.