Abstract

In recent years a variety of optical-signal branching and coupling components have been developed. They are key components for optical-fiber subscriber networks and local area networks. Fused taper fiber couplers are especially common components because of their low loss, high stability, and high coupling efficiency to fibers. However, the alignment process for individual fibers is not suitable for automated manufacture, and the tapered branching region of a fiber coupler requires strictly controlled elongation. To construct inexpensive and reliable optical-fiber networks, we still need to refine the fabrication technique for branching and coupling components.

© 1993 Optical Society of America