PCB-integrated flexo-printed optical networks structures

In this presentation, flexo-printed optical waveguides are investigated to be integrated as an optical interlayer in PCB. Thus, fully printed EOCB can be realized. Therefore, a novel fixed-sheet printing machine is presented, which enables single-digit micron infeed accuracy. Optical network structures are printed in three different layers, with each layer being geometrically characterized. The network structures' optical attenuation and split ratio are measured. Finally, potential applications for optical couplers and the bidirectional operation of polymer fibres are presented.