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Journal of Undergraduate Research

Keywords

optical fiber, integrated waveguides, optoelectronics

College

Ira A. Fulton College of Engineering and Technology

Department

Electrical and Computer Engineering

Abstract

Optoelectronics are made on the surface of a thin substrate of semiconductor material by attaching light-sensitive polymers to the surface, then removing patterns generated in the polymer. Waveguides can be made on the same substrate to interface directly with optoelectronics. They are made from raised channels running along the substrates surface and guide light through total internal reflection, much like optical fibers [1]. Optical fibers are used for internet and cable connections, in order for information to be successfully used, that information must make a transition from the optical fiber to integrated waveguides [2]. The engineering challenge associated with this transition involves the precise placement of waveguides and fiber, which can require better than one micron precision. The purpose of this project was to create a coupler that would serve as a bridge to guide light from an optical fiber into a waveguide efficiently.

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