Optical wavelength division multiplexer/demultiplexer having adhesive overflow channels with dams to achieve tight adhesive bond

Abstract

An optical wavelength division multiplexer and demultiplexer is provided wherein the optical couplings and alignment of the device are achieved by forming and adhesively joining a prefabricated optical block to a molded coupling module to avoid post-fabrication alignment and adjustment of the optical pathway otherwise required. One or more adhesive overflow channels are formed in said upper surface of the molded coupling module to receive excess adhesive used to join the optical block to the molded coupling module. Dams are formed adjacent each of said adhesive overflow channels to contain adhesive used to join the optical block to the molded coupling module, and to facilitate the use of low viscosity adhesive which in turn achieves a tighter, more parallel bond between the adhesively bonded parts.