LightStick is a new type of optical connection based on an adhesive tape that contains flexible diffractive components for (de)coupling light. Distinctive features of LightStick are 1) the use of conventional Scotch tape as a low-cost, adhesive and flexible optical waveguide, and 2) the integration of planar and flexible coupling elements into the waveguide. These integrated components allow the user to inject/extract light perpendicular to the waveguide by simply sticking the tape to the light emitting (or detecting) device (for example, an LED); this cannot be carried out by means of the butt-coupling method typically used in POF applications. Perpendicular coupling avoids mechanical manipulation and destruction of the waveguide (cutting and polishing), which facilitates waveguide-emitter/detector assembling.

“LightStick allows the user to connect an optical waveguide to a light emitting device quickly and easily, neither needing complex and sophisticated tools nor technical knowledge”

• In most POFs applications, light injection is achieved via the butt-coupling method, which requires cutting and polishing operations using specialized tools and proper optical alignment instrumentation between the fiber and the light emitting device. This can be a drawback when a set-up or repair must be implemented in a short time or by non-trained users.
• Commercial POFs exhibit a cylindrical geometry , which makes difficult direct optical coupling to planar light emitters and detectors such as LEDs and laser diodes.
• Typically, geometry and dimensions of commercial POFs are standard values; therefore it is difficult for the user to modify them or create new guiding configurations with geometries better suited to his/her needs.

• The global market is boosted by the increasing use of the plastic optical fiber (POF) technology.
• The Optical Communications, Healthcare sectors are expected to feed the technology market, in addition to the Connector market.
• Military, Aerospace and Automotive segments are ready to undergo significant growth due to the increasing use of plastic optical fiber through these application fields.

• Easy and rapid coupling between the plastic waveguide and the emitter device, neither needing cutting or polishing the waveguide nor using complex alignment instrumentation.
• Planar geometry facilitates direct connection to optoelectronic devices such as LEDs, laser diodes and photodiodes.
• The user can determine the waveguide dimensions and geometry by using conventional tools such as scissors or an scalpel.
• Spectral filtering. The coupling elements of LightStrick allow the selection of specific light coupling according to its color (wavelength). This is not possible by using the traditional butt-coupling method.
• Examples of recent applications of LightStick include the determination of refractive index of liquids and liquid level detection. 

“At present, the capabilities of LightStick to be used as an optical biosensor for biomolecule detection is under study. This could open the door to new business opportunities in key sectors such as the Biomedical field (antibody, DNA detection)”