Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for coupling an optical signal between an optical array and a flexible optical waveguide. The method includes the steps of disposing the optical array on an optically transparent substrate with an axis of transmission of an optically active element of the optical array passing directly through a body of the substrate, aligning a set of guide pins to the optically active element of the optical array, securing the aligned guide pins to the substrate and detachably coupling the flexible optical waveguide to the guide pins so that the axis of transmission of the optically active element is aligned with an axis of transmission of the flexible optical waveguide.