Optical waveguides – Accessories – External retainer/clamp
Patent
1998-06-30
2000-04-11
Healy, Brian
Optical waveguides
Accessories
External retainer/clamp
385 14, 385 11, 385 52, 385134, 385136, 385147, 437 51, 437250, G02B 600, H01L 2170
Patent
active
060496509
ABSTRACT:
Micro-machined tools and component holders useful for the manufacture, assembly, and testing of precision micro-miniature parts are provided, particurlarly embodiments well adapted for precision micro-miniature systems incorporating optical and/or electronic components including lenses, optical fibers, and the like. Structure and method find particular applicability in the precision optical systems of the read, write, or read/write heads of optically assisted storage devices for digital computers. Removable tools are used to temporarily position components while the components are glued or otherwise fixed into place during assembly, and then completely removed for use with another head assembly. Break-away tools or holders typically include three major portions: an element holder, a handle, and a break-away neck portion connecting the holder with the handle. The element holder provides a mounting block for an optical, electrical, or mechanical element. Once the elements are attached to the mounting blocks, they are moved into position within the larger assembly via the handle, the mounting block is glued to the assembly and a small predictable force is applied to the handle to break the neck and separate the handle from the holder which is at that time attached to the assembly. Tools may be formed by photolithographically patterened and etching a substrate such as silicon to selectively carve the substrate. Structures formed from plated metal, either on a base material, or made entirely of metal are also provided by the invention. Several embodiments of process for forming the inventive structures are also provided.
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Grade John D.
Jerman John H.
Healy Brian
Seagate Technology Inc.
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