Abstract: The invention relates to a self-centering arrangement of microstructured elements, particularly of microoptical components on a substrate serving as carrier. To provide microoptical components with projections that fit into corresponding recesses is known in the art. The invention provides a way to improve the mutual alignment of components (K1, K2) in that a deformation occurs when projections (Z1, Z2) are inserted into the recesses (A). This deformation may concern the projections or the recesses themselves or a molding material introduced between the projections and the recesses. The deformation improves the self-centering properties; in addition, manufacturing tolerances are more easily compensated. If the element cannot be provided with a suitable projection, an intermediate carrier is used, which is, for example, a plastic element produced by a LIGA process.

Abstract: The invention relates to a substrate (SUB) serving as a support, an optical waveguide (OWL) disposed on the substrate (SUB) and electrical conduction paths (ELB). Conventionally, the electrical conduction paths are placed on a thin insulating layer covering the substrate. According to the invention, the electrical conduction path (ELB) are routed on top of the surface (WOF) of the optical waveguide (OWL). This provides an improved insulation of the electrical conduction paths (ELB); moreover, the substrate surface is better utilized. Preferably, the electrical conduction paths (ELB) which are placed in ramp-like recesses (RA), are routed from the substrate surface (SOF) upwards to the surface (WOF) of the optical waveguide (OWL). The invention can be employed most advantageously proximate to laser bars where several conduction paths which are combined to form coplanar electrical waveguides, are arranged in a tight space.