METHOD FOR PREPARING OPTICAL FIBERS FOR CONNECTION TO OTHER FIBERS OR TO PLANAR WAVEGUIDES AND DEVICE FOR SUCH CONNECTION

摘要

This invention provides an efficient method for preparing multiple optic al fibers for interconnection to other optical fibers or to waveguides fabricated on a planar substrate. The break-away sandwich disclosed herein provides a reliable holding mechanism for the fibers that allows the fibers to be aligned, cut, angled and polished with high precision. It provides a simple means for exposing any reasonable length of the fibers, as well as optionally exposing only the top or bottom halves of the fibers. It provides a handling means that both protects the fibers, and serves as a handling platform for automated or manual manipulation of the fiber array.