Patent ID: 6954562

Claim:
A matrix switch of an optical waveguide type having a first set of m mutually parallel optical waveguides arranged on a substrate, a second set of n mutually parallel optical waveguides intersecting the first set of optical waveguides and arranged on said substrate (m and n are integers), and switching grooves for switching between light paths each arranged at each of the intersections of said first and second sets of optical waveguides, said matrix switch comprising: a switching part for selecting either one of a light path extending from an input port of said first set of optical waveguides to an output port of said first set of optical waveguides and a light path extending from an input port of said first set of optical waveguides to an output port of said second set of optical waveguides is provided, said switching part being an insertion plate having a reflective surface and arranged for insertion into said switching groove; and an area of deep groves which is deeper than said switching grooves being arranged in an area other than said optical waveguides on said substrate, wherein each of said switching grooves is arranged on an imaginary straight line connecting intersections of said first and second sets of optical waveguides and filled with a liquid having a refractive index matching with that of said optical waveguide.