Abstract: An assembly of fiber optic couplers of substantially identical form in an integrated array comprising two sets of optical fibers arranged side by side across an arcuate surface, epoxied in place, and lapped to develop mating planar surfaces which expose at least partially lapped portions of the respective optical fibers. Preferably, a launch coupler array is provided in which one set of optical fibers is of smaller diameter than those of the other set and is lapped to a depth sufficient to sever the fiber cores. The two lapped faces are then aligned so that one set of severed ends of the smaller fibers is joined with the exposed core portions of the other set of fibers. Selection of fiber size and lapping of the second set of fibers is performed to develop opposed mating portions of individual fibers which are substantially equal in extent and dimensions.

Abstract: A low-loss fiber optic tap coupler including an optical fiber mounted and adhered to a curved surface and having a clad single fiber core, a planar surface extending partially into and along the fiber through the cladding, a prism mounted on the surface having two reflective surfaces positioned to receive signals from the fiber travelling in opposite directions, and photodiodes mounted adjacent the prism to receive the reflected signals.

Abstract: A low-loss unidirectional optical coupler utilizing clad monofilament fibers of different diameters is provided by mounting each fiber on a curved surface, lapping the smaller (launch) fiber substantially tangentially to the curved surface until the core of the launch fiber has been lapped through to produce two elliptical flat surfaces, independently lapping the other (throughput) fiber tangentially to its surface to produce a fiber surface of substantially the same size as one of those produced on the launch fiber, aligning the throughput fiber surface with one of the launch fiber surfaces, and bonding them together.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for aligning a pair of optical fibers wherein a first fiber is positioned in a holder, adjusted along two axes in a plane, and rotated about an axis perpendicular to the plane. A second fiber is mounted in a universal fixture by a first set of adjustable positioning screws opposed to each other in a housing, and a second set of adjustable positioning screws opposed to the first set positioning the housing on an adjustable structure. The optical fibers are brought into position and flush contact effected by the flexibility of the universal fixture. Thereafter the structure is adjusted in a plane defined by two separate axes to effect alignment about the axes, and rotated about the third axis to complete alignment. A laser or other light source and a light sensitive element are utilized to determine when maximum light transmission is achieved, thus signifying proper alignment.