Thin-Film Laser-to-Fiber Coupler.
A laser-to-fiber coupler is described in which a thin-film waveguide is used to focus an incoming laser beam into the core of a cladded fiber. The latter is accurately aligned with respect to the waveguide by means of a V channel produced by a differential etching technique. Although over-all coupling efficiencies have not exceeded 10% so far, it is estimated that efficiencies of 50% or more should be feasible. This type of coupler may be useful in applications where compactness, ruggedness, and low cost are important.
Boivin
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