Abstract

The general goal of integration is to provide ease of fabrication, enhanced stability and compactness of complex systems by reducing the number of degrees of freedom in the assembly. Currently the term ’Integrated Optics’ represents two-dimensional planar integration. With a variety of techniques passive optical components have been integrated on a single substrate, guiding the light along predetermined paths /1/. By including electro-optic switching mechanisms and also, more recently, by integrating semiconductors planar integration of monolithic integrated optical circuits (OEICs) has become possible. Planar integration permits only a propagation of zero-dimensional optical signals. Furthermore the need of coupling into and out of wave guides generates interface problems lessening the advantages provided by integration.

© 1991 Optical Society of America