Patent ID: 6470123
Filing Date: 2002-10-22
Classification: G02B

Abstract:
A method of assembling an optical fiber array assembly includingproviding an array mask with a plurality of openings extending between a rear face and forward face and arranged in a predetermined hole pattern including at least three openings, providing at least first and second guide plates, each guide plate comprising at least three guide channels formed in one surface thereof, and said second guide plate being contiguous to said first guide plate to close the respective guide channels of said first guide plate, securing said mask and said guide plates in fixed positions relative to each other, before or after the above steps, removing any jackets or buffer layers from distal forward portions of at least three fibers to expose the cladding layers thereof, advancing said forward portions of said fibers simultaneously or sequentially through said channels for guiding the fibers and translating them into at least three array mask openings, and securing said fibers in said channels and said array mask openings, and wherein said providing at least first and second guide plates includes providing Y guide plates, each guide plate including a set of X channels, where X equals or does not equal Y, and wherein said array mask includes X rows of openings and Y columns of openings said array mask comprises etchable material and said method further comprising etching said X and Y openings in said array mask, and after said removing step, shaping the distal tip of each said fibers into a substantial cone, and forming said array mask openings as truncated cones with the larger diameter end located substantially at the forward array mask face.