Micro-optical building block system and method of making same

Abstract

A micro-optical building block system for optical processing of light signals and method for making the components used in the system. The basic system includes a master substrate on which is mounted at least one building block. Typically, there are a multiplicity of pre-defined positions at which the building blocks will mate with the master substrate. Building blocks can be positioned adjacent to each other on the master substrate in such a way as to allow light signals to be transferred between them. Mating relief patterns are formed on both the master substrate and the building block substrates, the relief pattern areas on the master substrate being adjacent and repetitive, or alternatively, different patterns. The mating relief patterns enable self alignment of the building blocks at predetermined positions on the master substrate. The relief pattern on the building blocks is adapted to be employed to embody a variety of optical components as integral or constituent parts of the relief pattern. Alternatively, the relief pattern is used as a mechanical fixture for optical or mechanical components, or both, which define the functions of the building blocks.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.