Patent ID: 6320997
Filing Date: 2001-11-20
Classification: G02B

Abstract:
A self-aligned 1.times.N fiber optic switch, said switch comprisinga first substrate, including a top major surface, for supporting a single optical fiber disposed through the thickness thereof, said first substrate including a centering fiducial disposed in a predetermined central location of said top major surface; anda second substrate, including a top major surface, for support a plurality of N optical fibers disposed through the thickness thereof, said plurality of N optical fibers positioned to form a circular array with respect to the top major surface of said second substrate, said second substrate including a centering fiducial disposed in a predetermined central location of said top major surface for mating with said first substrate centering fiducial and providing self-alignment between said first and second substrates;said switch further comprising a circular alignment channel formed in a top major surface of the first or second substrate and comprising a diameter greater than the diameter of the circular fiber array, said alignment channel including a plurality of rounded stops disposed at predetermined locations with respect to the locations of the plurality of optical fibers; andat least one alignment sphere formed in the top major surface of the remaining second or first substrate, said at least one alignment sphere located to reside within the alignment channel and allow for controlled rotation of the first substrate with respect to the second substrate and alignment of the single fiber to a selected one of the plurality of N fibers as the at least one alignment sphere contacts a rounded stop disposed within the alignment channel.