VERTICAL INTEGRATION TECHNOLOGY FOR FIBEROPTIC CIRCUIT

This paper reviews a novel technology to integrate optical functional devices directly into optical fibers. The experimental performance of the basic components for the technology, expanded core fibers, laminat ed polarizers, and laminated polarization splitters are presented. Opt ical isolators and switches as specific examples of applications are d emonstrated. The technology, called vertical photonics, enables lens-f ree and alignment-free integration, and is suitable for the mass-produ ction of in-line optical devices.