Disclosed embodiments demonstrate batch processing methods for producing
optical windows for micro-devices. The windows protect the active
elements of the micro-device from contaminants, while allowing light to
pass into and out of the hermetically sealed micro-device package.
Windows may be batch produced, reducing the cost of production, by fusing
multiple metal frames to a single sheet of glass. In order to allow
windows to be welded atop packages, disclosed embodiments keep a lip of
metal without any glass after the metal frames are fused to the sheet of
glass. Several techniques may accomplish this goal, including grinding
grooves in the glass to provide a gap that prevents fusion of the glass
to the metal frames along the outside edges in order to form a lip. The
disclosed batch processing techniques may allow for more efficient window
production, taking advantage of the economy of scale.