Patent ID: 6212320
Filing Date: 2001-04-03
Classification: G02B

Abstract:
Apparatus for coupling an optical fibre to a waveguide on an optical chip, the apparatus comprising a recess in the chip for receiving the optical fibre, the recess comprising a V-groove the side faces of which locate the position of the fibre in directions perpendicular to the optical axis of the fibre so as to position the fibre in alignment with the waveguide, and an end face adjacent the end of the waveguide, the end face of the recess being substantially flat and substantially perpendicular to the plane of the chip with its normal inclined to the optical axis of the waveguide so an optical fibre having an inclined end face can be brought into a close, abutting relationship with the end of the waveguide and brought into rotational alignment therewith about its optical axis by positioning the fibre so its inclined end face lies in planar contact with the end face of the recess, wherein the recess comprises two portions, a first portion which includes the V-groove and a second portion which includes said end face, the width of the second portion being at least as great as the width of the first portion.