We propose to develop a family of modular components for a second-generation fiber optical cable plant that is optimized for aerospace and shipboard applications. Specifically, designs will be proposed for connectors, splices, break-out boxes, backplane interfaces and fiber optic couplers. These components will be designed to terminate fiber ribbon cables. Together, they will permit the creation of an OCP consisting of cables and harnesses that can be configured to satisfy the requirements for fiber optic interconnection. We intend to use etched silicon micromachined components for the multi-fiber positioners that will position the optical fibers and waveguides. For the break-out box, we intend to develop a prototype design that can accommodate both ribbon and simplex cables; we intend to produce and evaluate prototype hardware for this break-out box. For connector components, we intend to employ the
Benefit: The direct benefit of this program will be the design, development and production of affordable, modular, optical components for second-generation optical cable plants. The availability of a family of practical, affordable and reconfigurable fiber optic components will assist system designers in creating optical systems for more powerful computers, for more extensive sensor applications and for enhanced data communication. This new family of components will use MFPs to satisfy the performance and environmental requirements for avionics while promising to provide major reductions in cost, weight and size. Perhaps the highest volume commercial applications would be in providing cost-effective methods for connecting fiber optic lines to business and to residences for telephony, cable TV and for the information superhighway.
Keywords: Silicon V-Groove, Silicon V-Groove, connectors, micro-machining, coupler, waveguide, Fiber Optic, Optical interconnect, Ribbon cable
