An optical fiber switch having two coupled fiber arrays which move in a
transverse direction to provide switching action. Each array has a front
face and the front faces are nearly in contact. Optical fiber ends are
located at the front faces. The front faces of the fiber arrays have
transverse grooves in which rolling spheres are disposed. The fiber arrays
move by rolling on the spheres. The spheres provide for smooth transverse
motion and a fixed distance between optical fiber arrays. The spheres and
front face grooves also provide for alignment between the optical fibers.
