Abstract
An optical link, based on a conventional Scotch tape waveguide, for sensing applications requiring rapid on-site assembly is proposed and demonstrated. The flexible waveguide contains an integrated aluminum one-dimensional grating coupler that, when stuck on the radiative surface of a light emitting device, allows light to be coupled in and transmitted through the tape, whose tip end is, in turn, adhered onto the photosensitive surface of a photodetector. The (de)coupling approaches exhibit high alignment tolerances that permit the formation of a free-standing flexible optical connection between surface-normal optoelectronic devices without the need of specialized equipment. As the first demonstration of a sensing application, the proposed optical link is easily configured as a cost-effective intensity-based refractometric sensor for liquid detection, which can be applicable to on-site quality and process control of, for example, beverages.
Highlights
Free-standing optical waveguides offer appealing characteristics that make them well suited to numerous sensing applications
A cost-effective and easy-to-implement optical link between surface-normal optoelectronic devices based on a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) tape waveguide for sensing applications has been proposed and demonstrated
The flexible optical connection is formed by directly attaching a waveguide end containing a metal grating coupler (GC)
Summary
Free-standing optical waveguides offer appealing characteristics that make them well suited to numerous sensing applications. Plastic optical fibers (POFs) are probably the most representative example of the successful application of flexible free-standing waveguides to the sensors field [5,6]. An additional feature that could further extend the applicability of these optical sensors is the feasibility for rapid in-situ formation of optical connections in a cost-effective and easy manner, that is, without requiring specialized instrumentation and/or qualified personnel. This should allow the implementation of ready solutions for a variety of field applications based on compact sensing systems
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
