Abstract: Lens-based optical connector assemblies and methods of fabricating the same are disclosed. In one embodiment, a lens-based connector assembly includes a glass-based optical substrate includes at least one optical element within the optical substrate, and at least one alignment feature positioned at an edge of the glass-based optical substrate, wherein the at least one alignment feature is located within 0.4 ?m of a predetermined position with respect to the at least one optical element along an x-direction and a y-direction. The lens-based connector assembly further includes a connector element including a recess having an interior surface, The interior surface has at least one connector alignment feature. The glass-based optical substrate is disposed within the recess such that the at least one alignment feature of the glass-based optical substrate engages the at least one connector alignment feature.

Abstract: Plug and receptacle ferrules, and fiber optic plug and receptacle connectors that use the plug and receptacle ferrules are disclosed. Connector assemblies formed by mating the plug and receptacle connectors are also disclosed. The fiber optic connectors and connector assemblies are suitable for use with commercial electronic devices and provide either an optical connection, or both electrical and optical connections. The plug ferrule includes an open section over which light converges are diverges. The receptacle ferrule includes a receptacle optical pathway having a substantially right angle bend formed by a mirror. The plug ferrule has a plug optical pathway that interfaces with the receptacle optical pathway at a solid-solid interface that serves to substantially expel any liquid from the interface.

Abstract: Plug and receptacle ferrules, and fiber optic plug and receptacle connectors that use the plug and receptacle ferrules are disclosed. Connector assemblies formed by mating the plug and receptacle connectors are also disclosed. The fiber optic connectors and connector assemblies are suitable for use with commercial electronic devices and provide either an optical connection, or both electrical and optical connections. The plug ferrule includes an open section over which light converges are diverges. The receptacle ferrule includes a receptacle optical pathway having a substantially right angle bend formed by a mirror. The plug ferrule has a plug optical pathway that interfaces with the receptacle optical pathway at a solid-solid interface that serves to substantially expel any liquid from the interface.