Micro actuators for aligning optical fibers

Abstract

Two microactuators to align fiber optics are described. One, an actuator using a thin strand of shape memory alloy, is used to align an input fiber with one of two output fibers. This component is useful for switching fiber-optic signals. The second is an electrostatic actuator capable of switching optical fibers and making fine adjustments to correct for misalignments. Single-point diamond machining (and associated molding technology) has been shown to be a viable alternative to etching Vee grooves in silicon for holding and aligning fibers.<>