Precision alignment of optical fiber ends along respective optical pathways in a multi-optical fiber connector module, and methods

An MF connector module is provided that positions the fiber end portions relative to respective V-grooves of the module in such a way that the fiber end portions can be bent, and thereby loaded, by a predetermined amount when the fiber end portions are being installed in the respective V-grooves. The bending of the fiber end portions ensures that the optical axes of at least the tips of the fiber end portions are parallel to the optical axes of the respective V-grooves. The loading of the fiber end portions caused by the bending ensures that significant lengths of the fiber end portions are tangent to and in contact with the inner walls of the respective V-grooves. This tangential contact between the fiber end portions and the inner walls of the V-grooves causes the fiber end faces to be precisely aligned with the respective optical axes of the MF connector module.