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Abstract

A method for forming lensed ends on waveguides to within very fine tolerances is applicable to many types of waveguides, including single fibers and POWs. The method uses photolithographic materials and techniques, but uses the waveguides themselves to provide the exposing radiation. Thus a method for forming a lens on the end of a waveguide having a waveguiding region and a cladding region includes the step of coating a first end of the waveguide with a photoresist material having sensitivity to at least light in a particular wavelength range. Light in that particular wavelength range is then injected into a second end of the waveguide so that the light within the waveguiding region preferentially exposes the photoresist that covers the waveguiding region at the first end of the waveguide. The method can be carried out with either positive photoresist (where only the exposed portion is removed by development) or negative photoresist (where only the exposed portion remains after development).

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First Claim