Formation of optical quality surfaces in optical material

摘要

A method of forming optical quality surfaces in optical material is described. In particular, high optical quality end face surfaces are provided in diffused channel waveguides formed on LiNbO3 crystal material, or the like. A T-shaped trench is first formed by laser ablation. The top of the "T" bisects a plane orthogonal to and passing through the waveguide. The lower part of the "T" is centered on the longitudinal axis of the waveguide and retains an optical fiber abutting the end face. A diamond polishing wheel is inserted in the top trench to polish the end face prior to affixing the fiber optic.