阅读说明：本技术 具有减少部件的壁后式光学连接器 (Rear wall optical connector with reduced components ) 是由 J·J-F·常 K·塔卡诺 于 2018-04-08 设计创作，主要内容包括：一种壁后式光学连接器,其具有被构造成插入到具有相应内表面的适配器中的外壳体、以及附接到壳体的一侧的闩锁,该闩锁构造成将连接器锁定到适配器开口中。所述闩锁还配置有锁定通道和引导件,以在一端接收带有锁扣的拉片,当拉片被向后拉动或远离所述适配器时,拉片从所述适配器开口释连接器。箍套组件插入壳体的第一端,并且当锁定到适配器时,箍套组件保持在其中没有任何锁定结构的壳体中。(A behind-the-wall optical connector has an outer housing configured to be inserted into an adapter having a corresponding inner surface, and a latch attached to one side of the housing, the latch configured to lock the connector into the adapter opening. The latch is also configured with a locking channel and guide to receive a pull tab with a catch at one end that releases the connector from the adapter opening when the pull tab is pulled back or away from the adapter. The ferrule assembly is inserted into the first end of the housing and, when locked to the adapter, is retained in the housing without any locking structure therein.)

1. An adapter for an optical connector, the adapter comprising:

an adapter housing defining a first port and an opposing second port aligned with the first port, the adapter housing configured to receive a first optical connector in the first port and a second connector in the second port, wherein the first optical connector is shorter in length than the second connector,

a plurality of channels disposed within the adapter housing and extending from the first port to the second port, an

A plurality of ferrule flanges disposed in the first port align with the sleeve,

wherein the number of ferrule flange alignment sleeves is greater than the number of channels,

the adapter housing includes an adapter latching surface configured to engage a latching face of a latch of the first optical connector to secure the first optical connector into the adapter.

2. The adapter of claim 1, wherein the first port is smaller in size than the second port.

3. The adapter of claim 1, wherein the adapter housing includes a shroud defining the first port.

4. The adapter of claim 3, wherein the shroud is configured to receive the first optical connector.

5. The adapter of claim 1, wherein the first port and the second port each have a length, and the length of the first port is less than the length of the second port.

6. The adapter of claim 3, wherein the shroud further comprises an upper wall portion and a lower wall portion.

7. The adapter of claim 6, wherein the adapter housing has a height at the first port that is less than a height at the second port.

8. The adapter of claim 1, further comprising a hook in the second port.

9. The adapter of claim 1, further comprising a pair of ferrule flange alignment sleeves in the first port.

10. A connection system comprising the adapter of claim 1, and a behind-the-wall connector.

11. The connection system of claim 10, wherein the behind-the-wall connector comprises:

a connector housing;

a first ferrule and a second ferrule received in the connector housing; and

a latch coupled to a side of the connector housing.

12. The connection system of claim 11, further comprising another connector.

Technical Field

The technical field of the present disclosure generally relates to fiber optic connectors having release members. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to narrow width adapters and connectors, such as narrow pitch Lucent Connector (LC) duplex adapters and narrow width multi-fiber connectors.

Background

The popularity of the internet has led to an unprecedented growth in communication networks. Increased consumer demand and competition for services has led network providers to continually seek ways to improve quality of service while reducing costs. Some solutions include deploying high density interconnect panels. High density interconnect panels may be designed to integrate the ever increasing amount of interconnects needed to support a fast growing network into a compact form factor, thereby improving quality of service and reducing costs (e.g., footprint and maintenance costs). However, deployment of high density interconnect panels is still in progress.

In communication networks, such as data centers and switching networks, many of the interconnections between mating connectors may be compactly arranged in high-density panels. Panel and connector manufacturers can optimize this high density by reducing the connector size and/or spacing between adjacent connectors on the panel. Thus, in general, more connectors are used in high density arrays. As the number of connectors in a switching network increases, the associated cost of creating the switching network increases accordingly. Generally, the construction of the connector involves the use of various components. The manufacturing method used to manufacture these connectors and the components used to construct the parts used to manufacture these connectors can greatly impact their unit cost.

For high density switching networks and large data centers that use thousands of these connectors, the unit cost can have a significant impact on the overall cost of designing and implementing the data center. Thus, if new lower cost connectors can be developed (e.g., lower cost behind-the-wall (BTW) connectors), there may be a profound impact on the cost of building a data center.

Disclosure of Invention

The present invention relates to low profile, reduced size connectors for use in fiber optic networks. The connectors are inserted into adapters or transceiver receptacles to mate with opposing fiber optic connectors of the same type, or with different configurations or electronics that convert optical signals passing through the optical fibers into electrical signals, or vice versa.

The rear wall connector has an outer housing shaped to be received in an adapter opening similarly configured to help align the connector before the connector is secured in the adapter. The connector has a notched release or latch that secures the connector in the adapter via an opening in the adapter housing. The connector release member is integrated into one end of the connector housing and extends beyond the second end. The second end of the release member locks into the adapter opening.

In another embodiment, the release receives a pull tab that removes the connector from the adapter housing. The pull tab snaps onto the release and is aligned with the release by a guide on the release that allows the pull tab to slidably move rearward to release the connector from the adapter.

In another embodiment, a removal tool may be used to release the connector from the adapter housing. The removal tool is inserted onto the release member via a protrusion placed through an opening in the release member. The removal tool has alignment tabs that engage corresponding channels on the release to guide the protrusions into the openings and help ensure that the removal tool does not become stuck in the adapter port. The projection has a stop that engages a surface within the opening of the release.

In another embodiment, the adapter has a shroud at the first end that receives the second end of the BTW connector, an inner surface of the shroud is configured to engage an outer surface of the connector, and a ferrule alignment sleeve is configured to engage a corresponding ferrule opening having a ferrule therein to connect the BTW connector with an opposing connector in the adapter.

Additional features and advantages of the invention will be set forth in the detailed description which follows, and in part will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from that description. It is to be understood that the foregoing general description, drawings, and detailed description are intended to provide a framework or overview for understanding the scope of the invention as claimed.

Drawings

Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a typical wall rear connector.

Fig. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a typical wall rear connector.

Fig. 3 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a redesigned wall back connector that includes a tension spring.

Fig. 4 is an exploded perspective view of one embodiment of a redesigned wall back connector that includes a tension spring.

Fig. 5 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a redesigned wall back connector without the extension spring.

Fig. 6 is an exploded perspective view of one embodiment of a redesigned wall back connector without the extension spring.

Fig. 7 is a detailed cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the redesigned wall back connector without the extension spring.

Fig. 8 is an enlarged detailed cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the redesigned wall back connector without the extension spring.

Fig. 9 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a redesigned wall back connector without the extension spring.

Fig. 10 is an illustrative embodiment of a connector within an adapter housing.

11A and 11B are illustrative embodiments of connectors within the secondary and primary sides, respectively, of an adapter housing; fig. 11C is a cross-sectional view of the connector within the adapter housing.

12A, 12B, 12C, and 12D illustrate an implementation of a connector with an alternative boot according to another embodiment.

13A and 13C depict an optical connector with a connector insertion tool; and figure 13B depicts a cross-section of the insertion tool.

Fig. 14 is an exploded view of a connector according to one embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 15A is a perspective view of the adapter and the assembled connector of fig. 14 just prior to insertion of the adapter.

Fig. 15B is a perspective view of an adapter with the connector of fig. 14 inserted and locked in the adapter.

Fig. 16A is an exploded view of the adapter of fig. 15A, with the hooks of the adapter disassembled from the adapter prior to insertion into the adapter.

Fig. 16B is a perspective view of a connector according to one embodiment of the invention prior to insertion into the adapter of fig. 16A, with the hook received in the adapter.

Fig. 17A is an exploded view of a connector according to one embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 17B is a view of the assembled connector of fig. 17A.

Fig. 18A is a perspective view of the connector of fig. 17B inserted into a simplex adapter (the adapter according to fig. 15A) at a first end and the connector of fig. 14 inserted into the adapter at a second end.

Fig. 18B is a perspective view of the adapter of fig. 15A configured as a duplex port adapter having a pair of the connectors of fig. 17B or 16B inserted into a first end of the adapter, and a pair of the connectors of fig. 14 assembled and inserted into a second end of the adapter.

Fig. 19A is a perspective view of a rear wall connector.

Fig. 19a.1 is a bottom or underside view of the rear wall connector.

Fig. 19B is a perspective view of a pull tab connector.

Figure 19C is a perspective view of a curved latching connector.

Fig. 19D is a perspective view of a wall back connector at a proximal end.

Fig. 20a.1 is a perspective view of the removal tool.

Fig. 20a.2 is a bottom perspective view of the removal tool of fig. 20a.1 showing the width "w".

Fig. 20a.3 is an enlarged partial perspective view of the removal tool of fig. 20a.1 showing the guide.

Fig. 20B is a perspective view of the rear wall connector.

Fig. 21 is a perspective view from the bottom of the removal tool of fig. 20A attached to the rear wall connector of fig. 20B.

Fig. 22 is a perspective view of the connector assembly of fig. 21 inserted into the adapter of fig. 16A on a first side, with the hook inserted into the adapter on a side opposite the rear wall connector.

Fig. 23A is a perspective view of the rear wall connector of fig. 20B locked into an adapter.

Fig. 23B is a perspective view of the connector and adapter assembly of fig. 23A with the removal tool of fig. 20A attached to the wall rear connector as indicated by arrow "I".

Fig. 24 is a perspective view of the rear wall connector prior to insertion of the adapter.

FIG. 25A is a perspective view of the adapter of FIG. 24 with a ferrule flange, and the ferrule flange with a spring inserted onto the flange.

Fig. 25B is a perspective view of the connector and adapter system of fig. 24 with the connector inserted into the adapter.

Fig. 26 is a perspective view of a rear wall connector with a pull tab attached to the connector latch for removing the connector from the adapter.

FIG. 27A is a perspective view of a pair of cuff flanges.

Fig. 27B is a perspective view of a pair of springs.

FIG. 27C is a perspective view of a pair of ferrule flange assemblies prior to insertion into a connector in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 27D is a front perspective view of the connector with the insert ferrule flange unassembled.

FIG. 28A is a front perspective view of a connector having a pair of ferrule flange assemblies inserted into the connector.

FIG. 28B is a rear perspective view of a connector having a pair of ferrule flange assemblies inserted into the connector.

FIG. 29A is a side perspective view of a connector with a pair of ferrule assemblies inserted therein prior to insertion into the adapter of FIG. 29B.

Fig. 29B is a side perspective view of the connector of fig. 29A inserted into one port of an adapter according to the present invention.

Fig. 30A is a top view of the rear wall connector inserted into the first port of the adapter, and no connector inserted into the second port.

Fig. 30B is a top cross-sectional view of fig. 30A.

Fig. 31A is a right side perspective view of the rear wall connector inserted into the adapter.

Fig. 31B is a right side half sectional view of the rear wall connector inserted into the adapter showing the latch securing the connector in the adapter.

Fig. 31C is a sectional view of fig. 31B.

Detailed Description

The disclosure is not limited to the particular systems, devices, and methods described, as these may vary. The terminology used in the description is for the purpose of describing the particular versions or embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope.

As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. Nothing in this disclosure is to be construed as an admission that the embodiments described in this disclosure are not entitled to antedate such disclosure by virtue of prior invention. As used herein, the term "including" means "including but not limited to".

For the purposes of this application, the following terms shall have the respective meanings set forth below.

As used herein, "connector" refers to a device and/or a component thereof that connects a first module or cable to a second module or cable. The connector may be configured for optical fiber transmission or electrical signal transmission. The connectors may be of any suitable type now known or later developed, such as ferrule type connectors (FC), Fiber Distributed Data Interface (FDDI) connectors, LC connectors, Mechanical Transfer (MT) connectors, Square Connectors (SC), SC duplex connectors, straight-head (ST) connectors, or behind-the-wall (BTW) connectors. The connector may generally be defined by a connector housing. In some embodiments, the housing may contain any or all of the components described herein.

"fiber optic cable" or "fiber optic cable" refers to a cable that contains one or more optical fibers for conducting an optical signal in an optical beam. The optical fibers may be constructed of any suitable transparent material, including glass, fiberglass, and plastic. The cable may include a jacket or protective material surrounding the optical fibers. In addition, one or both ends of the cable may be connected to the connector.

In today's crowded data centers, behind-the-wall connectors are important. The connector is considered to be a small form factor or small footprint connector, that is, for example, the overall length is reduced compared to fig. 3 and 5 in fig. 1. The size reduction is from the cuff or distal end to the end of the boot or proximal end of the connector. In the present invention, the wording "behind-the-wall" means that the connectors are placed behind a wall or panel and the panels are stored in shelves extending from the floor to the ceiling, and each shelf containing panels of a plurality of adapters is placed near another shelf with little or no distance between the shelves. As such, the connector structure needs to be removed to allow the shelves to be placed very close together without reducing the reliability of the connector. In the present invention, the extender cap 204 is removed along with other components.

In one embodiment of the invention, the spring is removed and replaced with a rear strut (not shown), and a resilient latch (308, 408, 508, 608, 115) is designed. In another embodiment, the springs (307, 407) are retained. The spring allows the ferrule flange to be more easily moved in response to stress on the connector.

Other prior art connectors that have eliminated the spring insert the ferrule from the front or distal end of the connector, with an end cap or end cap placed over the plug housing to hold the ferrule flange in place. The present invention inserts the ferrule flange and ferrule from the boot side or proximal end of the connector. This improves connector quality and operation because the pulling force or force that can be exerted on the connector when removed from the adapter is increased, which reduces breakage when using the resilient latch.

The various embodiments described herein generally provide a cost-reduced design for fiber optic connectors. In some embodiments, such as those discussed herein, various components of commonly known connectors (e.g., extender caps, springs, boots, etc.) may be eliminated. Various embodiments may include different types of structures for the connectors, for example, some may be flexible while others may be more rigid. Detailed examples of these connector types are shown in the figures and discussed further herein.

Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of a standard behind-the-wall (BTW) connector 100. Generally, as shown, a BTW connector may include a plug frame 101, a ferrule flange 102, an extender cap 104, and a protective cover 105. As shown in fig. 2, BTW connectors are constructed of various components held together by mechanical interlocking and/or spring tension. For example, as shown, a typical BTW connector may have a plug frame 201. The plug frame 201 includes most of the outer area of the connector. The plug frame 201 has openings at both ends to allow insertion of additional components. One such component is a ferrule flange 202, which is also typically accompanied by a flange tube 203. The ferrule flange 202 is typically designed with an extension collar 206 designed to limit movement of the ferrule flange through the plug frame 201. In other words, the extension collar 206 keeps the ferrule 202 from passing completely through the plug frame 201 and falling out of the front opening.

The BTW connector may also include a spring 203, the spring 203 generally surrounding at least a portion of the flanged tube and/or the ferrule flange 202 when assembled. The spring 203 applies tension to the ferrule flange 202 to prevent it from protruding from the plug frame 201 in order to maintain a good connection. However, the spring 203 may also provide some cushioning so as not to damage the ferrule 202 if it is not properly aligned. The spring 203 is then capped using the extender cap 204. The extender cap 204 has a fastening mechanism 220 designed to interlock with a cutout 221 in the plug frame 201. Finally, the protective cover 205 is placed over the extender cap 204.

Therefore, a large number of components are required to construct a typical BTW connector. Removing some of these components or replacing them with similar, but less complex, analogs may reduce the cost of the connector. Accordingly, some embodiments may eliminate various components as shown in FIG. 3. Fig. 3 shows a BTW connector 300 comprising a plug frame 301, a ferrule flange 302, a flange tube 303, and a spring 307. As shown in fig. 3, in some embodiments, the plug frame 301 may include a latch member 308. The latch member 308 may be a rigid body with some flexibility so that it can be moved via tool or human body pressure, but is sufficiently rigid to hold the ferrule flange 302 in place in conjunction with the spring 307. Additionally or alternatively, some embodiments may consist essentially of a plug frame 301, a ferrule flange 302, a flange tube 303, a spring 307, and a latch member 308.

Specifically, in some embodiments, the latch member 308 may have a hook or protrusion (not shown) that may hook or lock onto one or more portions of the spring 307. Thus, as shown, the latch member 308 may hold the spring 307 in a fixed position, allowing the spring to apply a horizontal pressure or tension to the cuff 302 to ensure proper placement of the cuff.

Figure 4 shows an exploded view of one embodiment including a plug frame 401, a ferrule flange 402, a flange tube 403, a spring 407, and a latch member 408. Thus, some embodiments (e.g., the embodiments shown in fig. 3 and 4) may remove various components (e.g., the extender cap and the protective cover) from the design. Removing these components, reducing connector cost, while also maintaining proper functionality, is advantageous in almost any data center setting.

Referring now to fig. 5, an exemplary embodiment with fewer components for a connector design 500 is shown. As shown, the exemplary embodiment includes only a plug frame 501 and a ferrule flange 502. This embodiment is achievable due to the configuration of the latch members 508 and their relative positions on the plug frame 501. Thus, some embodiments may consist essentially of a plug frame 501 and a ferrule flange 502.

Figure 6 shows an exploded view of the connector design. As can be seen in fig. 5 and 6, not only the extender cap and the protective cover are removed, but also the spring and the flanged tube. This arrangement is designed by the latch members 608 of the plug frame 601 in a manner that takes advantage of the standard shape of the ferrule flange 602. The exact interaction can be better understood with reference to fig. 7.

As shown in fig. 7, the ferrule flange 702 is within the plug frame 701. In some embodiments, the plug frame 701 may include one or more front stops 709. These front stops 709 prevent the ferrule flange 702 from falling out of the front opening of the plug frame 701. Further, as shown, the latch members 708 close around the extended collar 706 of the ferrule flange 702. This interlock system prevents the ferrule flanges from falling off the rear of the plug frame 701 or being pushed out (e.g., when a connection is made). As discussed herein, the latch member 708 is flexible or resilient in nature and thus may be moved using a tool or by a user. By moving the latch members 708 away from the sides of the collar flange 702 (e.g., applying outward pressure to the latch members to disengage them from the collar), the collar flange can be removed through the rear opening of the plug frame 701.

Fig. 8 shows an enlarged and more detailed view of one embodiment of a BTW connector 800, which is similar to the BTW connector of fig. 7. As shown, the ferrule flange 802 is located within the plug frame 801 and is held in place primarily by opposing forces placed on the extended ferrule collar 806 of the ferrule. These opposing forces are applied by a front stop 809 acting on the front of the extension collar 806 and a latch member 808 acting on the rear of the extension collar.

Referring to fig. 9, an alternative embodiment of a connector system 900 is shown. As shown in fig. 9, plug frame 901 is larger and more robust than some of the other connectors discussed and illustrated herein. However, the collar flange 902 is still held in place by means similar to those discussed in FIGS. 3-8. In this non-limiting example, the plug frame 901 includes latch members 908 that can interact with various connector components. For example, as discussed herein, the latch member 908 may latch onto a portion of the spring, thereby exerting some lateral force on the collar flange 902. Additionally or alternatively, the latch members 908 may latch or interact with an extension collar (not shown) to apply a force to retain the ferrule flange 902 within the plug frame 901. Some embodiments may consist essentially of a plug frame 901, a ferrule flange 902, and a latch member 908. Additionally or alternatively, some embodiments may consist essentially of plug frame 901 and ferrule flange 902, a flange tube (not shown), spring 907 (not shown), and latch member 908.

Referring now to fig. 10, in some embodiments, a plug frame 1001 may be placed in the adapter 1010. In some embodiments in which the plug frame 1001 is located within the adapter 1010, the latch member (not shown) may not be pushed out because the walls of the adapter block the latch member. Such an embodiment imparts additional strength to the connector (and in particular the plug frame 1001).

Referring now to fig. 11A-C, additional views of an optical connector 1101 inserted into an adapter 1102 are depicted. In fig. 11A, connector 1101 is located on the secondary side of adapter 1102. In FIG. 11B, the connector 1101 is located on the primary side of the adapter 1102. Both connectors have ferrules 1152 that engage openings 1158 of resilient member 1156 when inserted on either side of the adapter (fig. 11C). The resilient member 1156 is configured to expand and secure the ferrule 1152 while aligning the ferrule 1152.

Fig. 11C illustrates an exemplary resilient member 1156, which in one embodiment may be made of zirconia or a high strength polymer. The resilient member 1156 has a length, an inner diameter, and an outer diameter. When connector 1101 is inserted into adapter 1102, the leading end of ferrule 1152 enters opening 1158 of resilient member 1156, and the outer diameter of ferrule 1152 is greater than the inner diameter of ferrule 1152, and ferrule 1152 circumferentially expands resilient member 1156. Engagement of the distal end of the annular collar 1150 stops at the outer surface 1162 of the resilient member 1156. This helps to ensure that the annular collar 1150 is properly seated so that when the resilient latches 1140 return to their original or relaxed unbent position, the latches 1140 seat just forward of the proximal side of the annular collar 1150 and secure the cuff flanges (402, 602) from disengagement upon inadvertent impact.

The expansion of the resilient member depends on the modulus of the material of the resilient member 1156 and the width of the optional cut (shown by a pair of solid lines 1159) extending longitudinally along the resilient member 1156 in fig. 11C.

In the cross-sectional view of fig. 11C, it can be clearly seen that plug latch 1140 is located near an outer wall of the plug frame of connector 1101 (also shown at 608). In this manner, plug latch 1140 is restrained by adapter 1102 from flexing outward and releasing annular cuff 1150. Thus, when the connector is inserted into the adapter, the constraints of the adapter prevent ferrule 1152 from moving within the plug frame. This constraint further secures the ferrule 1152 within the resilient member 1156.

The central bore 1154 receives the annular collar 1150. A central bore 1154 is also shown in fig. 11A, wherein the internal dimensions of the bore 1154 match the external dimensions of the extension collar 206 or the annular cuff collar 1150. Annular ferrule sleeve 1150 is generally circular or annular in shape and may include surface features to aid in placement in a plug frame. Collar 206 is shown in fig. 2 as having a hexagonal outer dimensional appearance. Other outer surface features may be used without departing from the scope of the invention. The typical purpose of these functions is to assist in the assembly of the connector.

Depending on the application environment of the optical connectors of the various embodiments (i.e., the two embodiments with the spring and the embodiment without the spring), it may be desirable to secure a boot to the optical connector to protect the optical fibers located therein. This may be a consideration when the force that may be applied to the optical fiber may damage or destroy the optical fiber, and thus may require additional protection provided by the protective cover. As shown in fig. 12A-12D, an optional protective cover 1203 may be secured to the optical connector 1201. As with the previous embodiments, the optical connector 1201 includes a ferrule 1202. To secure the boot to the connector, an aperture 1204 is provided. As best seen in fig. 12B, engagement protrusions 1220 provided at the distal end of the protective shield 1203 are inserted into the apertures 1204 of the connector to hold the protective shield in a position extending from the proximal end of the connector plug frame. In the side view of fig. 12C and the adapter/connector assembly view of fig. 12D, the aperture 1204 with the engagement protrusion 1220 is clearly depicted.

To facilitate assembly of the ferrule within the plug frame, an insertion tool 1310 is provided, as shown in several views in fig. 13A-13C. In fig. 13A, the handle 1320 of the insertion tool 1310 is visible when the tool is inserted into the optical connector 1301. To accommodate the optical fiber, the insertion tool 1310 is characterized by a generally C-shaped cross-section, as shown in FIG. 13B, having various cross-sectional shapes along its length to receive the ferrule and the ferrule collar. As shown in fig. 13C, distal portion 1330 of insertion tool 1310 has a reduced cross-section so that the tool may be inserted into the bore of connector 1301 to position the ferrule therein.

Referring to fig. 14, an exploded view of a connector according to the present invention shows dust shield 1480 which may be inserted proximally into precursor body 1401 in the direction of arrow "a". The dust cap prevents debris from contacting the ferrule that may interfere with the fiber optic signal. Precursor 1401 also includes latch 1401.1. As shown in fig. 15B, the latch engages an inner surface of the adapter 2340 to secure the connector 1400 in the adapter. The connector also includes a pair of ferrules 1402, ferrule flanges 1406, ferrule springs 1403, and a back body 1404, where a boot 1405 covers the ferrules and the back body is connected to the front body 1401 to form the connector 1400. Connector 1400 is sometimes referred to as a flex-latch connector, where latch 1401.1 flexes downward when inserted into an adapter. Once inserted, the latch snaps into the opening of the adapter housing, as shown in fig. 15B.

Referring to fig. 15A, the connector 1400 is shown with an alternative latch 1401.1 prior to insertion into the adapter 2340. Referring to fig. 15B, the connector 1400 is inserted into the adapter. The latch face 1401.2 engages an adapter face 2340.1 (fig. 30A) that secures the connector 1400 in the adapter 2340.

Referring to fig. 16A, adapter 2340 may receive hook 1680. Referring to fig. 16A, the hook surface 1680.1 locks into a widthwise groove 1693 on the front body of the connector 1600, as shown in fig. 16B, which secures the connector 1600 to the adapter. Connector 1600 is sometimes referred to as a pull-tab connector, as shown by pull tab 1791 (see fig. 17A), which interacts with groove 1693 to unlock connector (1600, 1700) from hook surface 1680.1 located within adapter 2340.

Referring to FIG. 17A, an exploded view of the pull-tab connector 1700A also includes a ferrule assembly 1702 referred to as a multi-port optical ferrule or MPO ferrule. Connector 1700A further includes a widthwise groove 1793, a front body 1701 including a groove at a top surface, a ferrule assembly 1702, a rear body 1704, and a boot 1705 for covering and securing the aforementioned components to front body 1701. The connector 1700A also includes a pull tab 1791, the pull tab 1791 including a ramp region 1792. The ramp region unlocks the connector from the hook surface 1680.1 when the pull tab 1791 is pulled back away from the adapter. Referring to fig. 17B, the connector 1700A is assembled into 1700B showing the width-direction groove 1793 and the pull-tab 1791.

Referring to fig. 18A, connector 1700B and connector 1400 are inserted into simplex adapter 1800A at opposite ends. The connector 1700B as described above is engaged and fixed to the hooks 1680 in the insertion adapter 2340. Referring to fig. 18B, a pair of connector 1700B and connector 1400 are inserted into duplex adapter 1800B at opposite ends. These connectors extend beyond the adapter due to additional structures such as protective boot 1405 and pull tab 1791. Connector 1700B may be swapped with connector 1400 on the opposite side without departing from the scope of the invention. As shown in fig. 19A-19C, the wall back connector of the present invention is substantially shorter than the connector 1700B or 1600 or 1400.

Referring to fig. 19A, another embodiment of a behind-the-wall connector (100, 300) is shown. Connector 1900 does not include boot assemblies (105, 205). The connector 1900 includes a latch 1901.1 that extends beyond the connector housing a predetermined distance "L" to ensure that the connector 1900 fits within an adapter (not shown) while minimizing the overall connector length exposed outside of the adapter (not shown) as compared to fig. 19B and 19C, as shown in fig. 19A.

Referring to fig. 19a.1, the underside of connector 1900 shows latch overhang length "L". The connector also includes two channels 1907c, a first end opening 1907a and a second end opening 1907b at either end of the channels 1907c, respectively. Like connector 900 of fig. 9, the boot assembly is excluded from behind-the-wall connector 1900. The length of connector 1900 is substantially shorter and more compact than connector 1700B shown in fig. 18B, even as compared to connector 1400 shown in fig. 19C. Referring to fig. 19D, the connector 1900 further includes a housing 1900.1 having a mating surface (or key) 1901.5 configured to mate with an inner surface 2474.1 (see fig. 24) of the shroud 2474. Connector 1900 includes a latch 1901.1 attached to one side of housing 1900.1. The latch further includes: a widthwise locking groove 1901.4 that receives a catch 2601.1 of the pull tab 2600 (see fig. 26); a guide 1908.8 to slidably hold the pull tab in place; and a guide recess 1909.9 that receives a portion of the recessed latch structure during release of the tab from the adapter. The locking recesses 1901.4 are sized to snap into the catch when the catch is pressed into the recess and to be removed from the recess by prying the catch out of the recess. The latch 1901.1 also includes a chamfered or angled surface 1901.10 that engages a corresponding adapter surface when the connector is inserted into the adapter (not shown). Surface 1901.10 urges the latch downward upon contact with a corresponding adapter structure for substantially non-resistant insertion.

Referring to fig. 20a.1, removal tool 2000 is configured to engage connector 1900 via protrusion 2090, protrusion 2090 being configured to be inserted into opening 1902 (see fig. 20B). Pulling the tool 2000 back in the direction "R" (fig. 21) depresses the latch 1901.1 (see fig. 20B), which releases the connector 1900 from the adapter 2340, as shown in fig. 23B. Referring to fig. 20a.1, removal tool 2000 and its protrusion 2090 further include a cutout 2090a and a stop surface 2090 b. The cut-out 2090a engages the latch inner surface 1901.6 (see fig. 24) and pulling the tool 2000 in the direction of arrow "a" (see fig. 23B) releases the connector 1900 from the adapter 2340. The stop surface increases the strength of the removal tool when the stop surface engages the latch inner surface and the tool is pulled to release the connector 1900. Referring to fig. 20a.2, the underside of the removal tool of fig. 20a.1 includes a guide of width "w" sized to be received in a slot 1901.3a extending longitudinally along the latching surface. The slot is sized and shaped (with respect to width and depth (fig. 20B)) to receive the guide 2090e, see fig. 20 a.3.

Referring to fig. 20B, the connector 1900 includes: an opening 1902 configured to receive the protrusion 2090; a channel 1901.3 configured to receive an alignment tab 2090c, which helps ensure that the tool 2000 is not stuck in the adapter; protrusion 2090 is configured to be received in opening 1902. Referring to fig. 21, the protrusion 2090 is shown inserted into the opening 1902 of the connector 1900. Referring to fig. 20A, the protrusion 2090d extends along the length of the underside or attachment side to the connector of the removal tool. The protrusions are located on both inner sides and protrude inwardly. This allows protrusion 2090d to engage side 1901.7 of latch 1901.1. The width of the protrusion openings define the distance "d" (see fig. 21) between protrusions 2090d, and "d" is sized to engage the top surface of latch 1901.1. Protrusion 2090b captures side 1901.7 of the latch to secure tool 2000 and help prevent the tool from sliding in a direction across the width of the latch and from getting stuck in the adapter. This is also shown at 2080 in FIG. 22. Returning to fig. 21, tool 2000 is secured to latch 1901.1 by side projection 2090d and projection 2090 extending through latch opening 1902.

Referring to fig. 22, the adapter 2340 includes a connector 1900 to which the removal tool 2000 is attached. The opposing port has a hook inserted therein, which can receive a connector (1600, 1700). Shown in the labeled area 2080 are protrusions 2090d that further secure and stabilize the tool 2000 to the latch 1901.1. Alignment tab 2090c is shown engaged in channel 1901.3 to help ensure that tool 2000 does not become stuck in the adapter. If the tool becomes stuck, the connector may be broken or damaged along with the adapter itself when the stuck tool is pulled out. The opposite side of adapter 2340 shows hooks 1680 in the adapter port. Hook 1680 can receive connector 1700B and mate fiber paths contained in ferrules of connectors 1700B and 1900 to form a signal path. The hook 1680 can be removed and the connector 1400 can be secured and locked into the adapter port in place of the connector 1700B and form the same signal path as the connector 1900 without departing from the scope of the invention.

Referring to fig. 23A, the connector 1900 is shown in a first port of the duplex adapter 2340 with the hook 1680 in the port opposite the connector 1900. An adapter port with hooks can receive connector 1700B and connector 1400 can be inserted into an adjacent port that does not contain hooks 1680. The adapter includes an opening 2340.2 that further includes an adapter latch face 2340.1 that engages a corresponding latch face 1901.2 (see fig. 20B), thereby securing the connector 1900 into the adapter 2340. Referring to fig. 23A, the removal tool 2000 is not inserted onto the connector 1900. Referring to fig. 23B, connector 1900 with removal tool 2000 is inserted into the first port of the duplex adapter. This adapter is also shown in fig. 24. Pulling the tool 2000 in the direction of arrow "a" removes the connector 1900 from the adapter. Pulling the tool 2000 in the direction "a" exerts a downward force "F" on the latch 1901.1, thereby disengaging the latch face 1901.2 from within the adapter opening 2340.2.

Referring to fig. 24, an embodiment of the adapter includes an outer shroud 2474, a ferrule flange alignment sleeve 2472, and latch openings 2476. The shroud 2474 also includes an inner surface 2474.1, a plurality of walls 2474.2, and a channel 2474.5, the channel 2474.5 being configured to receive the housing of the connector 1900 and its mating surface 1901.5. These features help ensure that connector 1900 is in the direction of arrow "I" when inserted into an adapter port, ensure that connector 1900 is aligned such that latch 1901.1 will be secured into adapter opening 2340.2 (fig. 23A) and latch face 1901.2 will engage and lock with latch face 2340.1 of a corresponding adapter.

Referring to fig. 25A, the adapter of fig. 24 further includes a ferrule flange 2506 inserted into the ferrule flange alignment sleeve retainer 2472, and also includes spring 2503 on the ferrule flanges (1906, 2504) and alignment sleeve 1906.1. The connector housing is not shown. Referring to fig. 25B, the connector 1900 is fully inserted and locked into the adapter 2340 with the outer surface of the housing of the connector 1900 engaged with the inner surface 2474.1 of the shroud 2474.

Referring to fig. 26, pull tab 2600 is configured to attach to latch 1901.1 of connector 1900. The proximal end of pull tab 2600 further includes catch 2601.1 with catch 2601.1 engaging a widthwise extending groove 2601.7 on the top surface of the latch. As the pull tab 2600 is moved in the direction of arrow "a 1," the catch pushes the latch downward in the direction of arrow "a 2," and this releases the connector 1900 from the adapter 2340.

Referring to fig. 27A-27D, the assembly of connector 1900 begins with ferrule flange 1910, which includes ferrule 1902, flange 1906, and ferrule alignment sleeve 1906.1, see fig. 27A. Spring 1903 (FIG. 27B) is inserted at the distal end of cuff flange 1910, which is now cuff assembly 1910.1, see FIG. 27C. Each ferrule assembly 1910.1 is press-fit into a corresponding connector 1900 opening 1901.7, see fig. 28A. Returning to FIG. 27D, the cuff assembly 1910.1 is inserted into the adapter opening at the first end 1907a, which causes the assembly 1910.1 to protrude as shown in FIG. 29A.

Referring to fig. 31B, cuff assembly 1910.1 may be inserted through opening 1907a in the first end of the housing of connector 1900. The housing of the connector also has an opening 1907b at the second end of the housing. A channel 1907c (fig. 30B) extends through the housing and connects the opening at the first end of the housing with the opening at the second end of the housing. In the illustrated embodiment, connector 1900 has two sets of openings and two channels, each channel connecting a respective set of openings. Referring to fig. 28A, a front view of connector 1900 shows ferrule assembly 1910.1 inserted into connector opening 1907 a. The ferrule flange 1906 engages the housing in the passage and forms a tight interference fit with the housing to releasably secure the ferrule assembly 1910.1 to the housing. A shoulder in the housing engages the ferrule flange 1906 to establish the position of the ferrule assembly 1910.1 relative to the housing. Connector 1900 is fully assembled and ready for insertion into adapter 2340. FIG. 28B is a rear or distal end of fully assembled connector 1900 with a pair of cuff assembly 1910.1 protrusions. More specifically, the ferrule alignment sleeve 1906.1 protrudes from an opening in the first end of the housing. A spring 1903 protrudes from an opening at the second end of the housing. A portion of the collar 1902 also protrudes from the opening 1907b in the second end of the housing.

Referring to fig. 29A, connector 1900 is shown prior to insertion into a port of adapter 2340 in direction "I". The ferrule flange assembly 1910.1 is inserted into the adapter alignment sleeve opening 2474.7 and upon full insertion (fig. 29B), the latches 1901.1 are secured in the adapter opening 2340.1. When locked, the spring 1903 is compressed (not shown) when in contact with the alignment sleeve retainer 2472 and retains the ferrule assembly 1910.1 in the connector 1900 and also helps prevent signal loss when the connector 1900 is hit, such as when a shelf (not shown) holding multiple adapters and connectors inserted therein hits another shelf when moved.

Referring to fig. 30A, a connector 1901 with a push/pull tab connected thereto is inserted into the adapter socket. The latch 1901.1 is secured in an opening in the adapter housing. Referring to fig. 31C, latch face 1901.2 sits against adapter surface 2340.1, which adapter surface 2340.1 prevents connector 1900 from being removed from the adapter unless the pull tab is pulled back, pushing latch 1901.1 downward, which moves latch face 1901.2 downward and under the adapter housing opening so the connector can be unplugged from the adapter receptacle.

Referring to fig. 30B, connector 1900 includes a housing 1900.1, a second end opening 1907B, a first end opening 1907a, a channel 1907c, a coil spring, a ferrule 1902, and a ferrule flange 1906. The ferrule assembly 1910.1 (labeled in FIG. 31B) includes a ferrule 1902, a coil spring 1903 (which extends out of the opening 1907B), and a ferrule flange 1906. The connector 1900 is inserted into the adapter 2340. Referring to fig. 31B, the adapter port has hooks 1680 that can receive connectors (1600, 1700).

Referring to fig. 31C, pull tab catch 2601.1 is releasably connected to latch 1901.1, which is secured to housing 1901.1. The latches 1901.1 engage the adapter housing 2340 at the adapter surface 2340.1 and the latch faces 1901.2 to secure the latches in the adapter, thereby securing the ferrule assembly 1910.1 in the passage 1907c (fig. 30B).

The foregoing detailed description has referred to the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof. In the drawings, like reference numerals generally identify like components, unless context dictates otherwise. The exemplary embodiments, figures, and claims set forth in the detailed description are not meant to be limiting. Other embodiments may be utilized, and other changes may be made, without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject matter presented herein. It will be readily understood that the aspects of the present disclosure, as generally described herein, and illustrated in the figures, can be arranged, substituted, combined, separated, and designed in a wide variety of different configurations, all of which are explicitly contemplated herein.

The present disclosure is not limited to the particular embodiments described in this application, which are intended as illustrations of various aspects. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many modifications and variations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope thereof. Functionally equivalent methods and apparatuses within the scope of the disclosure, in addition to those enumerated herein, will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the foregoing description. Such modifications and variations are intended to fall within the scope of the appended claims. The disclosure is to be limited only by the terms of the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. It is to be understood that this disclosure is not limited to particular methods, reagents, compounds, compositions, or biological systems, which can, of course, vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only, and is not intended to be limiting.

With respect to substantially any plural and/or singular terms used herein, those having skill in the art can translate from the plural to the singular and/or from the singular to the plural as is appropriate to the context and/or application. Various singular/plural permutations may be expressly set forth herein for the sake of clarity.

It will be understood by those within the art that, in general, terms used herein, and especially in the appended claims (e.g., bodies of the appended claims) are generally intended as "open" terms (e.g., the term "including" should be interpreted as "including but not limited to," the term "having" should be interpreted as "having at least," the term "includes" should be interpreted as "includes but is not limited to," etc.). Although various compositions, methods, and devices are described in terms of "comprising" various components or steps (which are to be interpreted as meaning "including, but not limited to"), the compositions, methods, and devices can also "consist essentially of or" consist of various components and steps, which terms should be interpreted as defining a substantially closed group of members. It will be further understood by those within the art that if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such an intent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence of such recitation no such intent is present. For example, as an aid to understanding, the following appended claims may contain usage of the introductory phrases "at least one" and "one or more" to introduce claim recitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed to imply that the introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinite articles "a" or "an" limits any particular claim containing such introduced claim recitation to embodiments containing only one such recitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases "one or more" or "at least one" and indefinite articles such as "a" or "an" (e.g., "a" and/or "an" should be interpreted to mean "at least one" or "one or more"); the same is true for the use of definite articles used to introduce claim recitations. Furthermore, even if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly recited, those skilled in the art will recognize that such recitation should be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (e.g., the bare recitation of "two recitations," without other modifiers, means at least two recitations, or two or more recitations). Further, in those instances where a convention analogous to "at least one of A, B and C, etc." is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand generally (e.g., "a system having at least one of a, B, and C" would include but not be limited to systems that have a alone, B alone, C alone, a and B together, a and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B and C together, etc.). Where a convention analogous to "A, B or at least one of C, etc." is used, in general, such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would normally understand (e.g., "a system having at least one of A, B or C" would include, but not be limited to, systems that have a only, B only, C only, a and B, a and C, B and C, and/or A, B and C, etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that virtually any disjunctive word and/or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the description, claims, or drawings, should be understood to contemplate the possibilities of including one of the terms, either of the terms, or both of the terms. For example, the phrase "a or B" will be understood to include the possibility of "a" or "B" or "a and B".

In addition, where features or aspects of the disclosure are described in terms of markush groups, those skilled in the art will recognize that the disclosure is also thereby described in terms of any member or subgroup of members of the markush group.

As will be understood by those skilled in the art, for any and all purposes, such as in terms of providing a written description, all ranges disclosed herein also encompass any and all possible subranges and combinations of subranges thereof. Any listed range can be easily identified as being fully descriptive and having the same range broken down into at least equal halves, thirds, quarters, fifths, tenths, etc. As a non-limiting example, each range discussed herein may be readily broken down into a lower third, a middle third, and an upper third, etc. As will also be understood by those of skill in the art, all languages such as "up to," "at least," and the like include the recited number and refer to ranges that may be subsequently broken down into sub-ranges as set forth above. Finally, as will be understood by those skilled in the art, a range includes each individual member. Thus, for example, a group having 1-3 cells refers to a group having 1, 2, or 3 cells. Similarly, a group having 1-5 cells refers to groups having 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 cells, and so forth.

Various of the above-disclosed and other features and functions, or alternatives thereof, may be desirably combined into many other different systems or applications. Various presently unforeseen or unanticipated alternatives, modifications, variations or improvements therein may be subsequently made by those skilled in the art, each of which is also intended to be encompassed by the disclosed embodiments.