Abstract
Assembling hybrid integrated micro-optical modules for mono-mode applications requires alignment tolerances better than ±1 μm which, so far, were achieved by complex active alignment of the micro-optical components. This article describes a passive assembly concept employing high-precision LIGA structures to simplify assembly and reduce manufacturing costs. The advantages of this passive assembly concept are demonstrated in the micro-optical assembly of a heterodyne receiver. The micro-optical components (ball microlenses, prisms, glass fibers, photodiodes) were aligned passively by means of alignment structures made of PMMA, and were subsequently fixed by UV-curing adhesive. Photodiodes were additionally contacted with electrically conducting adhesive cured at 70 °C. The mono-mode glass fibers were mounted in fiber mounts into the fiber grooves of which the glass fibers were inserted and immobilized with UV-curing adhesive. Measurements of the optical quality of the heterodyne receiver indicated an accuracy of assembly better than 1 μm.
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Received: 3 January 2000/Accepted: 9 February 2000
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Gerlach, A., Ziegler, P. & Mohr, J. Assembly of hybrid integrated micro-optical modules using passive alignment with LIGA mounting elements and adhesive bonding techniques. Microsystem Technologies 7, 27–31 (2001). https://doi.org/10.1007/s005420000057
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s005420000057