Symetrical miniature bends in optical fibers and methods of forming same

摘要

An optical assembly has a miniature fiber optic bend fixedly attached to a substrate to form an integral assembly with an optical component also fixedly attached to the substrate. The assembly includes at least one optical fiber having an entering fiber portion and a return fiber portion. A miniature bend is formed in an intermediate portion that comprises an optical fiber portion between the entering liber portion and the return fiber portion to provide a reversal of direction between the entering fiber portion and the return fiber portion. The entering fiber portion and the return fiber portion are preferably fixed in overlying relationship w:.thin a channel formed in the substrate. The resulting device :.s smaller, more environmentally stable, and more robust, because there is no relative motion between components. The resu:.ting device also has fewer parts and processing steps to manufacture.