Micro-optic adhesive assembly and method therefor

摘要

The invention relates to a micro-optic adhesive assembly and a method for making a micro-optic assembly. The method of joining optical assemblies in accordance with the present invention improves the strength and shock resistance of adhesive joints in micro-optic devices without affecting the optical path. The adhesive assembly of the present invention has sufficiently flexibility to be able to conform to different alignment geometries without introducing significant bulk or thermal expansion incompatibility. Further the improved method is compatible with the device manufacturing techniques and does not add significant manufacturing complexity. An optical device in accordance with the invention comprises: a first optical element having an optical path therethrough and having a coupling end face; a second optical element having an optical path therethrough and having a coupling end face optically coupled to the coupling end face of the first optical element such that light propagating on the optical path of the first element couples to the optical path of the second element; an adhesive joint between the coupling end face of the first element and the coupling end face of the second element, such that adhesive is not in the optical paths therethrough; and a plurality of flexible crossties each secured to an exterior surface of the first element and to an exterior surface of the second element to reinforce the adhesive joint.