Passively-aligned fiber array to waveguide configuration

An interconnection arrangement providing passive alignment between an array of optical fibers and an array of optical waveguides integrated within an optical substrate, the interconnection arrangement comprising:

• a plurality of alignment ridges disposed to surround individual optical waveguides forming the array of optical waveguides, the array of optical waveguides formed to exhibit a predetermined pitch between adjacent optical waveguides within the array, where each alignment ridge exhibits a width w;
• and
• an optical fiber array support structure comprising a plurality of V-grooves for supporting the array of optical fibers and providing passive alignment with the plurality of alignment ridges, the plurality of V-grooves formed to exhibit the same predetermined pitch, the plurality of V-grooves defined as comprising a first portion for supporting the array of optical fibers and a second portion, defined as a proximal end portion, beyond an end termination of the array of optical fibers, wherein the proximal end portion of the V-grooves functions as alignment features that engage with the plurality of alignment ridges such that a pair of upper corners of each alignment ridge contact inner sidewalls of an associated V-groove at a location that creates alignment between a core region of an associated optical fiber supported within the associated V-groove and the optical waveguide positioned within the alignment ridge so as to provide passive alignment between the array of optical fibers and the array of optical waveguides, wherein the plurality of alignment ridges comprise a height selected to ensure that a gap remains between a top surface of the optical fiber array support structure and an engaging top surface of the optical substrate upon engagement of the plurality of V-groove alignment features with the plurality of alignment ridges.