Patent ID: 6169827
Filing Date: 2001-01-02
Classification: G02B

Abstract:
A micro-optic switch comprising: a) a planar substrate; b) at least one array comprising: first and second optical fiber grippers on the substrate, each of the grippers having a central groove and the first and second optical fiber grippers being positioned such that the grooves are substantially collinear; and an optical fiber alignment bumper on the substrate having a central groove, being positioned such that the groove is substantially collinear with the grooves of the first and second optical fiber grippers; c) at least two horizontally spaced throw optical fibers fixed in the groove of each second optical fiber gripper; and d) at least one pole optical fiber fixed in each first optical fiber gripper such that it cantilevers over the substrate and extends at least part of the way through the groove of the alignment bumper, such that an end thereof is capable of alternate positioning in alignment with a complementary end of one of the throw fibers.