Packaging platform, optical module using the platform, and methods for producing the platform and the module

An optical module comprising:

• an optical component including
• an optical waveguide having core and clad portions;
• an electrode pattern having a plurality of electrode pads;
• and
• a first alignment guide having
• a first height reference surface separated by a predetermined height from the core portion of said optical waveguide and positioned along a section thereof;
• and
• a first horizontal reference surface separated by a predetermined distance from the core portion of said optical waveguide;
• and
• a packaging platform having
• a fiber positioning portion for receiving and holding an optical fiber;
• an electrical wiring pattern;
• and
• a second alignment guide having
• a second height reference surface, said first and second height reference surfaces determining the vertical position of said optical component on said platform when said optical component and said packaging platform are brought into contact with each other;
• and
• a second horizontal reference surface, said first and second horizontal reference surfaces determining the horizontal position of said optical component on said platform when said optical component and said packaging platform are brought into contact with each other;
• whereby
• when said optical component and said packaging platform are brought into contact with each other the electrode pads of said electrode pattern and the electrical wiring pattern are brought into alignment with each other, and the optical fiber inserted into the fiber positioning portion of said packaging platform and said optical waveguide are coupled.