Optical components having magnetic thin films for orientation and method of assembling same

摘要

A self-orienting optical component advantageous for assembling sub-optical assemblies in which the components must be precisely aligned comprises a component having a magnetic film deposited on a portion of its outer surface so that a magnetic field applied adjacent the optical component will induce the optical component to move to a pre-determined orientation. Advantageously, the optical component also has further layers deposited on portions of its outer surface for aiding in adhesion, soldering, or light transmission. An improved method of assembling an optical subassembly comprises depositing a film of magnetic material over a portion of the outer surface of the optical component and applying a magnetic field to the optical component to induce it to move to a pre-determined orientation to aid in positioning it on a submount.