Patent ID: 7389026

Claim:
A method for manufacturing an optical module equipped with an optical element, the method comprising the steps of: (a) preparing a support member for supporting an optical element, the support member being formed from an enclosure having a base section and a frame section provided on the base section; (b) providing a spacer on the base section of the support member; (c) pressing the spacer to cause a plastic deformation therein; (d) bonding the optical element and the spacer; (e) providing a sealing member in one portion of an upper surface of the frame section of the support member; (f) disposing a lid member for sealing the optical element above the sealing member and affixing the lid member to the support member; and (g) affixing a case with a lens in contact with another portion of the upper surface of the frame section of the support member, wherein, in the step (c), a height adjusting jig having a first section opposed to the base section, a second section opposed to one portion of an upper surface of the frame section and having an upper surface in a height lower than the first section, and a third section opposed to another portion of the upper surface of the frame section and having an upper surface in a height lower than the second section is used, wherein the second section is abutted against the upper surface of the frame while pressing the spacer by the first section whereby compression of the spacer is limited; and wherein, in the step (g), the case with the lens is affixed to the support member such that the lens is disposed on an optical path of light oscillated by the optical element, and the case with the lens is opposed in an optical axis direction of light passing through the lens to and in contact with the support member.