Optical fiber coupler packaging arrangement and a method of manufacture

Abstract

A protective arrangement for an optical fiber coupler includes a substantially cross-sectionally V-shaped support element which bounds an open channel that receives a portion of the optical fiber coupler. The portion received in the open channel incudes jacketed regions, continuing into bare regions and a coupling region. Respective adhesive bodies secure the jacketed regions of the optical fiber coupler in the open channel of the V-shaped support element. A strip-shaped support element is connected by respective additional bodies of adhesive to the bare regions of the fiber just outside the coupling region. The support elements are of a material having a coefficient of thermal expansion approximating that of the material of the optical fiber coupler. A shrunk tubular shielding element tightly surrounds the V-shaped support element over most of its length and its open ends are closed by respective seals. Shrunk tubular bend limiters surround the jacketed regions of the optical fiber coupler and pass through the respective seals. This sub-package is so inserted into a receiving channel of a housing member that the open side of the open channel of the V-shaped support element faces the bottom surface of the receiving channel. A body of encapsulating material embeds the subpackage and holds the same in position within the receiving channel.