Optical coupler

US7349601B2 · kind B2 · utility

Inventors

• Klaus Dietrich · Munich, DE
• Markus Halter · Diepoldsau, CH
• Markus Michler · Feldkirch, AT
• Stephan Paredes · Thalwil, CH
• Andreas Walser · Sankt Gallen, CH

Key dates

• Filing date: Apr 17, 2006
• Grant date: Mar 25, 2008
• Expiry date: Apr 17, 2026

Classification

• Technology area (CPC G): Physics
• CPC primary: G02B6/4221
• WIPO field: Optics
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

A coupling element (3) and a waveguide structure (4) are deposited on a common substrate (2) of an optical component (1). The coupling element (3) serves for the optical coupling of the waveguide structures (4) to a further optical component. The coupling element (3) contains a reflecting, curved surface (31.1-31.8) for deflecting and for collimation of light which propagates between the waveguide structure 4 and the further optical component. The coupling element (3) creates a standard for interfaces between the optical component (1) and a further optical component. The manufacture of the coupling element (3) is simple and inexpensive, may be standardized and directed to large batch numbers.