We studied the supply and removal of oil to and from a thin groove and the consequent insertion loss, aiming at matrix optical waveguide switches that utilize optical reflection and transmission effects at the groove. A robot precisely controlled the position of the removal nozzle and the supply needle by a vision servo. The optimum position for the removal nozzle was at the entrance of the groove to a circular oil pool, and the positioning margin was 10-15µm around the optimum position. The on-off ratio of the switching light power at the optimum position was about 30dB. The removal time was proportional to the kinetic viscosity of the oil, and the optimum height of the removal nozzle was independent of the kinetic viscosity of the oil. An analysis of the insertion loss revealed that the main factor in the loss at the reflection is the tilt of the groove wall.

A new automated main distributing frame (AMDF) system is developed that reduces operating costs in metallic-cable main distributing frames (MDFs) used for communication networks. In this AMDF system, a robot inserts connecting-pins into the crosspoint holes of matrix-boards. This process allows jumpering to be completed within three minutes and the route-setting for line testing within one minute. The AMDF system provides approximately 2,100 office equipment cable-terminals. Parallel installation of several AMDF systems allows larger MDF systems to be constructed. This system reduces costs and achieves high reliability through three new technologies: high-density matrix-board, precision pin-handling, and a highly reliable system control. Test results for a prototype AMDF system confirm their effectiveness.