Optical connector with reversible polarity

Abstract

A reversible polarity fiber optic connector is provided, having a housing at least partially surrounding first and second optical sleeves, with walls above and below the sleeves. Positioning a removable unit (e.g., a latch, movable arm, or push-pull tongue) on the first wall above the sleeves creates a fiber optic connector of a first polarity type, while positioning the removable unit on the second wall below the sleeves creates a fiber optic connector of a second polarity of opposite polarity. Various engagement mechanisms are provided on the connector housing walls, the removable unit, or both to aid in securing the removable unit to the connector housing.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of Chinese patent application No. PCT / US2018 / 016049, National Application No. 201880009892.8, filed on January 30, 2018, entitled "Optical Connector with Reversible Polarity".

[0002] Cross-referencing of related patent applications

[0003] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 452,147, filed January 30, 2017; No. 62 / 457,150, filed February 9, 2017; No. 62 / 463,898, filed February 27, 2017; No. 62 / 463,901, filed February 27, 2017; No. 62 / 485,042, filed April 13, 2017; No. 62 / 546,920, filed August 17, 2017; and No. 62 / 581,961, filed November 6, 2017, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0004] This disclosure generally relates to optical connectors with reversible polarity. Background Technology

[0005] The widespread adoption of the internet has led to unprecedented growth in communication networks. Increased consumer demand for services and intensified competition have prompted network providers to continuously seek ways to improve service quality while reducing costs.

[0006] Some solutions involve deploying high-density interconnect panels. High-density interconnect panels can be designed to integrate the ever-increasing number of interconnects needed to support rapidly growing networks into a compact form factor, thereby improving service quality and reducing costs such as footprint and support overhead. However, there is still room for improvement in data center footprint, especially when fiber optic connectivity is involved. For example, connector manufacturers always want to reduce the size of their equipment while increasing ease of deployment, robustness, and post-deployment modifiability. In particular, more optical connectors may need to be housed in the same packages previously used for a smaller number of connectors to provide backward compatibility with existing data center facilities. For example, a popular package is called a Small Form Factor (SFP). This package currently accommodates two LC-type sleeve optical connections. However, it may be desirable to house four optical connections (two full-duplex connections for transmitting / receiving) within the same package. Another popular package is the Quad Small Form Factor (QSFP). This package currently accommodates four LC-type sleeve optical connections. However, it may be desirable to house eight LC-type sleeve optical connections (four full-duplex connections for transmitting / receiving) within the same package.

[0007] In communication networks such as data centers and switching networks, numerous interconnections between mating connectors can be compacted into high-density panels. Panel and connector manufacturers can optimize this high density by reducing connector size and / or the spacing between adjacent connectors on the panel. While both methods can be beneficial for increasing panel connector density, reducing connector size and / or spacing can also increase support costs and reduce service quality.

[0008] In high-density panel configurations, adjacent connectors and cable assemblies can obstruct access to individual release mechanisms. This physical barrier can hinder an operator's ability to minimize stress applied to cables and connectors. For example, such stress can be applied when a user enters a dense cluster of connectors and pushes aside surrounding fibers and connectors to approach individual connector release mechanisms with their thumb and forefinger. Overstretching cables and connectors can introduce potential defects, compromise terminal integrity and / or reliability, and potentially cause significant disruption to network performance. Therefore, smaller fiber optic connectors are needed that will meet the future needs of smaller SFPs and can be reconfigured for flexible deployment. Summary of the Invention

[0009] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a reversible polarity fiber optic connector comprising at least first and second optical sleeves and a connector housing at least partially surrounding the first and second optical sleeves. The housing has a first outer wall located above the first and second optical sleeves and a second outer wall located below the first and second optical sleeves. A latching connector is positioned on each of the first and second outer walls of the housing. A removable latch can engage either the first or second outer wall latch coupled to the connector housing. Positioning the removable latch on the first outer wall creates a fiber optic connector with a first polarity, while positioning the removable latch on the second outer wall creates a fiber optic connector with a second polarity of opposite polarity.

[0010] On the other hand, the present invention provides a reversible polarity fiber optic connector having replaceable arms for changing connector types. Thus, a common connector body can be formed for different connector types. The connector includes at least first and second optical sleeves and a common connector housing at least partially surrounding the first and second optical sleeves. The housing has a first outer wall located above the first and second optical sleeves and a second outer wall located below the first and second optical sleeves. A mating surface is located on each of the first and second outer walls of the common connector housing. To form the connector, a removable arm engages the mating surface of the first or second outer wall; the removable arm includes a latch or latch recess, depending on the type of optical connector to be formed. Furthermore, positioning the removable arm on the first outer wall of the connector housing produces a fiber optic connector with a first polarity, while positioning the removable arm on the second outer surface of the housing produces a fiber optic connector with a second polarity of opposite polarity.

[0011] In another aspect, the present invention provides a reversible polarity fiber optic connector with a push-pull tab. The connector includes at least first and second optical sleeves and has a connector housing at least partially surrounding the first and second optical sleeves. A first outer wall is located above the first and second optical sleeves, while a second outer wall is located below the first and second optical sleeves. A first hole is located in the first outer wall of the housing, and a second hole is located in the second outer wall of the housing. The removable push-pull tab includes a protrusion for positioning within either the first or second hole in the first or second outer wall of the connector housing, respectively. Positioning the removable push-pull tab and its protrusion within the first hole creates a fiber optic connector with a first polarity, while positioning the removable push-pull tab and its protrusion within the second hole creates a fiber optic connector with a second polarity of opposite polarity.

[0012] In another aspect, the present invention provides a reversible polarity fiber optic connector comprising at least first and second optical sleeves and a connector housing at least partially surrounding the first and second optical sleeves. A first outer wall is located above the first and second optical sleeves, and a second outer wall is located below the first and second optical sleeves. A removable push-pull tab is provided. A first push-pull tab retainer is positioned on the first outer wall, and a second push-pull tab retainer is positioned on the second outer wall. Positioning the removable push-pull tab in a retainer on the first outer wall of the connector housing produces a fiber optic connector with a first polarity, while positioning the removable push-pull tab in a retainer on the second outer wall of the housing produces an optical connector with a second polarity of opposite polarity. Attached Figure Description

[0013] Figure 1A This is a perspective view of an embodiment of a reversible polarity fiber optic connector according to some aspects of this disclosure;

[0014] Figure 1B yes Figure 1A A side view of a reversible polarity fiber optic connector, in which a removable latch has been removed from the connector housing;

[0015] Figure 2 The changes were shown Figure 1A The process of reversible polarity fiber optic connector polarity reversibility;

[0016] Figure 3A This is a perspective view of an embodiment of a reversible polarity fiber optic connector with a pull tab according to some aspects of this disclosure;

[0017] Figure 3B yes Figure 3A An exploded view of a reversible polarity fiber optic connector;

[0018] Figure 4 The changes were shown Figure 3A The process of reversible polarity fiber optic connector polarity reversibility;

[0019] Figure 5A This is a perspective view of another embodiment of a reversible polarity fiber optic connector with a pull tab, according to some aspects of this disclosure;

[0020] Figure 5B yes Figure 5A An exploded view of a reversible polarity fiber optic connector;

[0021] Figure 6 It shows the method for changing Figure 5A The process of determining the polarity of the fiber optic connector;

[0022] Figure 7AThis is a perspective view of a common connector housing of a reversible polarity fiber optic connector according to embodiments of some aspects of this disclosure, the reversible polarity fiber optic connector having replaceable arms for changing the connector type.

[0023] Figure 7B yes Figure 7A Front view of the common connector housing;

[0024] Figure 7C yes Figure 7A A top view of the shared connector housing;

[0025] Figure 7D yes Figure 7A Side view of the common connector housing;

[0026] Figure 8A The diagram shows the method for forming a latch-type connector. Figure 7A Shared connector housing;

[0027] Figure 8B The diagram shows the method for forming a concave connector. Figure 7A Shared connector housing;

[0028] Figure 9 It shows the method for changing Figure 8A The process of polarization of latching fiber optic connectors;

[0029] Figure 10 It shows the method for changing Figure 8B The process of polarization of a concave fiber optic connector;

[0030] Figure 11A and 11B Exploded perspective views of a reversible polar optical connector according to another embodiment of the present disclosure are shown.

[0031] Figure 12A-12D It shows Figure 11A and 11B Operation of reversible polar optical connectors;

[0032] Figures 13A-13D The changes were shown Figure 11A and 11B The process of polarization of the optical connector;

[0033] Figure 14A and 14B Exploded perspective views of a reversible polar optical connector according to another embodiment of the present disclosure are shown.

[0034] Figures 15A-15D It shows Figure 14A and 14B Operation of reversible polar optical connectors;

[0035] Figure 16A-16D It shows the method for changing Figure 14A and 14B The process of polarization of the optical connector;

[0036] Figures 17A-17C A perspective view, a partial cross-sectional view, and an exploded view of a reversible polar optical connector according to another embodiment of the present disclosure are shown respectively.

[0037] Figures 18A-18D The push-pull tongue is shown. Figures 17A-17C The assembly of the connector body;

[0038] Figures 19A-19B The tool is shown for removing the push-pull tongue from the connector body;

[0039] Figure 20A-20D It shows the method for changing Figures 17A-17C The process of polarizing the optical connector.

[0040] Figures 21A-21D The process of changing the polarity of an optical connector according to an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated.

[0041] Figures 22A-22E The process for changing the polarity of an optical connector according to an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. Detailed Implementation

[0042] This disclosure is not limited to the specific systems, devices, and methods described, as they can be modified. The terminology used in this specification is for describing a particular version or embodiment only and is not intended to be limiting.

[0043] As used in this document, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms “a,” “an,” “the,” and “the” include plural references. Unless otherwise defined, 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 should be construed as an admission that the embodiments described herein are not entitled to precedence over these disclosures by any prior invention. As used in this document, the term “comprising” means “including, but not limited to,” “including.”

[0044] For the purposes of this application, the following terms shall have the corresponding meanings as described below.

[0045] The connectors disclosed herein can be configured for fiber optic transmission or electrical signal transmission. The connectors can be any suitable type now known or hereafter developed, such as sleeve connectors (FC), Fiber Distributed Data Interface (FDDI) connectors, LC connectors, Mechanical Converter (MT) connectors, Square Connectors (SC), SC Duplex Connectors, or Straight Connectors (ST). The connectors are typically defined by a connector housing. In some embodiments, the housing may incorporate any or all of the components described herein.

[0046] The various embodiments described herein typically provide a remote release mechanism that allows a user to remove closely spaced cable assembly connectors without damaging surrounding connectors, accidentally disconnecting surrounding connectors, or disrupting transmission through surrounding connectors. Various embodiments also provide narrow-pitch LC duplex connectors and narrow-width multi-fiber connectors.

[0047] As discussed herein, popular connectors can be improved through various means such as reducing footprint, increasing structural strength, and implementing polarity changes. As will be further discussed below, the various embodiments disclosed herein provide improvements over the prior art.

[0048] In some embodiments, the fiber optic connector may be a narrow-pitch duplex LC connector comprising two LC connectors. In some embodiments shown, the two LC connectors may comprise a single combined unit. In alternative embodiments, the LC connectors may be separate components, wherein an air gap exists between the two components, or wherein the two separate components are positioned adjacent to each other and flush with each other (i.e., no air gap). In some embodiments, each LC connector includes a corresponding sleeve and a corresponding extension component or modular arm. The connector may have a 4.8 mm pitch, which is defined as the axis-to-axis distance between the central axes of the LC connectors. In other embodiments, the connector pitch may be smaller than that of conventional connectors, for example, less than 6.25 mm and less than about 5.25 mm. In some embodiments, the pitch may be about 4.8 mm or less.

[0049] In popular designs, rotating or swapping the ferrule of fiber optic connectors (especially duplex connectors) can be a time-consuming and difficult process (e.g., to switch transmit and receive fibers). Typically, if a duplex connector needs to be rotated, popular systems require twisting each individual LC connector head 180 degrees. However, this process also twists the fiber inside the connector head. Twisting the fiber at any stage of the connection can cause wear and / or damage to the fragile fiber. Therefore, most systems include alternative solutions where the duplex connector is partially or completely disassembled to access the ferrule or fiber and manually reposition them within the duplex connector. However, swapping the ferrule from one side to the other is a fragile operation. Extreme care must be taken to prevent damage to the internal fiber. Therefore, this operation typically requires specialized tools and preparation time to perform safely and accurately.

[0050] Therefore, the embodiments described herein allow for convenient, quick, and safe replacement of the left and right sleeves in the connector. Thus, the embodiments discussed herein allow for polarity changes in the duplex connector without twisting the fiber or performing any complex disassembly of the duplex connector.

[0051] Figure 1A and 1B An optical fiber connector with reversible polarity is shown according to one aspect of this disclosure. For example... Figure 1A As shown, the reversible polarity fiber optic connector may include a first optical sleeve 110a and a second optical sleeve 110b, and a connector housing 120 that at least partially surrounds the first and second optical sleeves. Figure 1A The image shows a removable latch 130 in its assembled state, while Figure 1B The illustration shows a scenario where the removable latch 130 has been removed from the connector housing 120.

[0052] Figure 1B yes Figure 1AA side view of a reversible polarized fiber optic connector, wherein a removable latch 130 is separated from the connector housing. As shown, the connector housing 120 may have a first outer wall 121a located above the first and second optical sleeves and a second outer wall 121b located below the first and second optical sleeves. A latch connector 122 is positioned on each of the first and second outer walls of the housing. The removable latch 130 may include a protrusion 131 for engaging the housing latch connector 122. In particular, the latch connector 122 may include an inclined wall that interacts with the inclined edge of the protrusion 131 to prevent accidental disassembly of the latch 130. Although the latch connector 122 is depicted as a recess on the housing that receives the latch protrusion, these portions may be opposite to a latch including a recess and a housing including a protrusion. Other mechanical coupling mechanisms may be used to interconnect the housing and the removable latch. For example, one embodiment may include a coupling system in which the removable latch is inserted into a recess in the connector housing and twisted (e.g., 90°, 180°, etc.) to secure the latch to the recess. Alternative connections can use more complex shapes. For example, a U-shaped recess in the connector housing can engage a mating protrusion in the latch, which inserts and feeds through the U-shaped recess until secured. Therefore, it should be understood that any connection system or method can be used to attach a removable latch to the connector housing, including various locations (e.g., sliding from the front, side, rear, bottom, top, etc.).

[0053] Figure 2 It shows the method for using Figure 1A The process of changing the polarity of the fiber optic connector from a first polarity to a second polarity of opposite polarity. A removable latch 130 can be removed from the latch connector on the first outer wall of the connector housing, positioned near the second outer wall below the ferrule, and then engaged with the latch connector on the second outer wall of the connector housing to create connector 100R, which has the opposite polarity to connector 100. In this way, transmitting and receiving fibers can be reversed without any fiber twisting or complex repositioning of the optical ferrule.

[0054] In typical embodiments, the latch of the connector housing needs to be flexible. Therefore, when the latch and connector housing (e.g., a duplex connector) are constructed as a single, unified component (as is currently done), the fiber optic connector is made of a similarly flexible or less rigid material. Manufacturing the connector housing with plastic or polymeric materials limits the amount of rigidity it can have. Therefore, as the size of fiber optic connectors continues to decrease, the strength of the housing has decreased. Thus, it is advantageous to manufacture the connector housing with a more robust material while still allowing the latch to remain flexible. To achieve this, in some embodiments according to various aspects of this disclosure, the connector housing can be made of a very rigid or robust material (e.g., steel, graphene, carbon, metal alloys, or any material with suitable properties). Because the connector housing and the removable latch only need to interlock with each other, the removable latch can still be made of a more flexible material. Therefore, the removable nature of the latch disclosed herein allows for a more robust and secure overall design when dealing with the reduced footprint of fiber optic connectors.

[0055] Figure 3A This is a perspective view of another embodiment of the reversible polarity fiber optic connector 300. As shown, the reversible polarity fiber optic connector may also include a pull tab 340 for engaging a removable latch 330. When the pull tab is pulled away from the fiber optic sleeve, the pull tab 340 presses against the latch 330.

[0056] Figure 3B yes Figure 3A An exploded view of a reversible polarity fiber optic connector. As shown, the pull tab 340 may include a first opening 341 and a second opening 344. The first opening 341 is configured to allow the connector housing and a removable latch to pass through, while the second opening is configured to receive the tip of the latch. The pull tab may also include a first deformable portion 342 and a second deformable portion 344. In operation, when the pull tab is pulled away from the sleeve, the first deformable portion 342 engages with the second deformable portion 344 to press the removable latch.

[0057] Figure 4 The process for changing the polarity of fiber optic connector 300 from a first polarity to a second polarity 300R is illustrated. A pull tab 340 can be disengaged from connector housing 320 and a removable latch 330 on the first outer wall of connector housing. The removable latch is then removed from a latch connector on the first outer wall of connector housing. Next, the removable latch is engaged with a latch connector on the second outer wall of connector housing below the sleeve. Finally, the pull tab 340 is positioned around connector housing and engaged with the tip of the removable latch, resulting in an assembled optical connector 300R having a polarity opposite to that of connector 300.

[0058] Figure 5A and 5B These are perspective and exploded views, respectively, of another embodiment of the reversible polarity fiber optic connector 500. The connector 500 includes a connector housing 520, a latch 530, and a pull tab 540. The latch connector is located on the first and second outer walls of the connector housing 520 and includes a recess 522. A recess 521 is also provided in the housing. The latch 530 includes a protrusion 531 received within the recess 522. The latch also includes a projection 532 received within the housing between optical sleeves. The pull tab 540 includes an opening 541 for engaging the removable latch 530. The front protrusion 542 is configured to press the removable latch 530 when the pull tab is pulled in a direction away from the sleeve side of the optical connector.

[0059] Figure 6 The process for changing the polarity of fiber optic connector 500 from a first polarity to a second polarity is illustrated. The pull tab 540 is disengaged from the connector housing and a removable latch 530 on the first outer wall of the connector housing, and the removable latch is separated from the latch connector on the first outer wall of the connector housing. The removable latch can then be attached to the connector housing. Figure 6 The latch connector on the second outer wall below the optical sleeve is connected, and the pull tab 540 is engaged with the connector housing and the removable latch on the second outer wall of the connector housing to form the reverse polarity connector 500R.

[0060] In the optical connectivity industry, it makes sense to offer a variety of types of optical connectors for multiple purposes and / or multiple implementations. Therefore, to more easily provide flexibility, a solution is needed that allows for on-the-spot, field, or manufacturing modifications of the connector. The following embodiment provides a universal fiber optic connector with a unique housing design that allows for the attachment of different latches or arms.

[0061] Figure 7A This is a perspective view of a common connector housing 720 of a reversible polarity fiber optic connector 700 having replaceable arms for changing connector type, in embodiments according to various aspects of this disclosure. As shown, the reversible polarity fiber optic connector may include a first optical sleeve 710a and a second optical sleeve 710b, and a common connector housing 720 at least partially surrounding the first and second optical sleeves.

[0062] Figure 7B , 7CFigures 7D and 7D are the front view, top view, and side view of the common connector housing 720, respectively. As shown, the common connector housing may have a first outer wall 725a located above the first and second optical sleeves and a second outer wall 725b located below the first and second optical sleeves. The connector housing 720 may also have a coupling surface 724 positioned on each of the first and second outer walls, and include a receiving track 726 in the coupling surface.

[0063] Figure 8A A common connector housing 720 for forming a latch-type connector 700 is shown, while Figure 8B A common connector housing 720 for forming a concave connector 800 is shown. Both connectors 700 and 800 include a removable arm 730 or 830 for engaging either a first or second outer wall engagement surface 724 on the connector housing. The removable arms 730 and 830 may each include a protrusion 735 or 835 for engaging in a receiving track 726 of the engagement surface 724. As in the previous embodiments, positioning the removable arm on the first outer wall of the connector housing creates a fiber optic connector with a first polarity, while positioning the removable arm on the second outer surface of the housing creates a fiber optic connector with the opposite polarity.

[0064] Still referencing Figure 8A and 8B The removable arm may include a latch or a recess: removable arm 730 includes a latch 733, while removable arm 830 includes a recess 834. Therefore, a latch-type connector 700 (e.g., ...) is formed by assembling removable latch arms to a common connector body 720. Figure 8A As shown), a recessed connector 800 is formed by assembling a removable recessed arm onto a common connector body 720. Figure 8B (As shown).

[0065] The fiber optic connector may also include a pull tab. When a removable arm with latch 730 is positioned on the mating surface of a common connector housing 720 to form a latch-type connector 700, the pull tab 740 is a separate element from the removable arm. When a removable arm including a recess 830 is positioned on the mating surface of a common connector housing 720 to form a recess-type connector 800, the pull tab 840 is integrally formed with the removable arm.

[0066] Figure 9The process for changing the polarity of a latching fiber optic connector from a first polarity 700 to a second polarity 700R is illustrated. A sub-assembly of a removable arm 730 and a pull tab 740 can be separated from the engagement surface 724 of the first outer wall of the connector housing. The sub-assembly of the removable arm 730 and the pull tab 740 can then be engaged with the engagement surface of the second outer wall of the connector housing, thereby forming a connector 700R of opposite polarity.

[0067] Figure 10 The process for changing the polarity of a concave fiber optic connector 800 from a first polarity to a second polarity is illustrated. A removable arm 830, having a recess and a pull tab as an integral structure, can be separated from the engagement surface 724 of the first outer wall of the connector housing. The removable arm can then be engaged with the engagement surface 724 of the second outer wall of the shared connector housing 720 to form an optical connector 800R of opposite polarity.

[0068] Figure 11A and 11B Another embodiment 1100 of the reversible polar optical connector of this disclosure is shown. Figure 11A In this embodiment, the push-pull tongue 1130 may interconnect with either the first outer wall 1110 or the second outer wall 1115 of the housing 1105. Sleeves 1120 and 1125 are at least partially surrounded by the housing 1105 and, in one embodiment, may be LC connectors. As in previous embodiments, the push-pull tongue may include a tongue recess 1145. Alternatively, the push-pull tongue 1130 may include a latch (not shown). Various features of the push-pull tongue 1130 are provided to aid in securing the push-pull tongue to either the first outer wall 1110 or the second outer wall 1115 of the housing 1105. This includes a push-pull tongue clip 1135 (optionally located in the boot-shaped region) that clamps onto the optical connector, a protrusion 1140 (discussed in more detail below) that fits into a first hole 1109A located below the outer wall of the housing 1110 or a second hole 1109B located below the outer wall of the housing 1115, and a protrusion 1131 in the housing for insertion between sleeves 1120 and 1125. Each of these features is fully reversible, allowing the push-pull tongue to be easily removed and repositioned on the opposing outer walls to change the polarity of the connector.

[0069] As in Figure 12B and 12DAs best understood, the push-pull tongue protrusion 1140 can be inserted into the first hole 1109A of the housing 1105 through the first housing hole 1107A. Alternatively, in the reverse polarity configuration, the push-pull tongue protrusion 1140 can be inserted into the second housing hole 1109B through the second housing hole 1107B. When the push-pull tongue 1130 moves forward, the protrusion slides within the holes 1109A or 1109B, as... Figure 12B As shown. To hold the push-pull tongue in the forward-biased position, a tongue position spring 1150 is provided. During insertion or removal of the protrusion 1140, the tongue position spring 1150 is compressed, as... Figure 12B As shown. When the position spring 1150 is in its relaxed (uncompressed) position (e.g.) Figure 12C and 12D As shown), the protrusion 1140 slides forward within the hole 1109A or 1109B.

[0070] In order to change the polarity of the optical connector 1100, such as Figures 13A-13D As shown, the push-pull tongue 1130 is removed from the first outer casing wall 1110 by withdrawing the protrusion 1140 together with the release clip 1135 from the housing 1105 through the outer casing hole 1107A and separating the protrusion 1131. Figure 13B The push-pull tongue moves toward the second outer casing wall 1115, and the protrusion 1140 passes through... Figure 13C The housing hole 1107B is inserted into the hole 1109B. The protrusion 1131 is fitted between the sleeves 1120 and 1125, while the clip 1135 is secured to the connector. The resulting... Figure 13D The polarity of connector 1100R is... Figure 13A The polarity of connector 1100 is opposite.

[0071] Various alternatives to the protrusion 1140 of the optical connector 1100 can be used in the optical connectors of this disclosure. For example, the protrusion can be provided by a connector housing having a receiving unit disposed in a push-pull tongue. The shape of the protrusion and the hole can be changed without affecting the function of the reversible polarity connector.

[0072] exist Figure 14A and 14B Another alternative embodiment is shown, in which a hook-shaped protrusion 1440 is provided for engagement within the connector housing. As in the previous embodiment, the push-pull tongue 1430 includes a tongue recess 1445, a connector attachment clip 1435, and a protrusion 1431 for positioning between sleeves 1420 and 1425. Figure 14BIn this configuration, the push-pull tongue 1430 is positioned on the first outer casing wall 1410 and has a first polarity. In this position, the hook-shaped protrusion 1440 engages with the casing protrusion 1460 and is held in a forward-biased position by the push-pull tongue position spring 1465, as... Figure 15B and 15D As shown. To release the protrusion 1440, the push-pull tongue position spring 1465 is in... Figure 15C The housing protrusion 1460 is compressed so that it retracts sufficiently to allow removal of the protrusion 1440 through the housing 1405, as... Figure 15D As shown.

[0073] In order to Figure 16A The first polarity change of the optical connector 1400 is achieved by removing the push-pull tongue 1430 from the housing 1405 along with the separation clip 1435, thereby releasing the push-pull tongue from the first housing wall 1110. Figure 16B The push-pull tongue moves toward the second outer casing wall 1415, and the protrusion 1440 is inserted into the casing 1405. The protrusion 1431 is fitted between the sleeves 1420 and 1425, while the clip 1435 is secured to... Figure 16C On the connector in the middle. The obtained Figure 16D The polarity of the 1400R connector is... Figure 16A The connectors have opposite polarities.

[0074] The protrusion from the push-pull tongue can be inserted into the housing through features other than the housing hole. This connector is shown in Figure 17 and has a deformable housing area to allow the push-pull tongue protrusion to enter during the securing of the push-pull tongue to the connector housing. Figure 17A As shown, connector 1700 includes connector housing 1705, which optionally includes a rear housing portion 1709 for connection with the front housing portion 1707. Figure 17C The rear portion 1709 of the housing includes a deformable region 1780, in Figure 17B Local cross-section and Figure 17C As can be seen in the perspective view, the push-pull tongue 1730 includes a protrusion 1740, which has a protrusion 1741 extending therefrom.

[0075] Turning to Figure 18, in order to secure the push-pull tongue to the connector housing, the protrusion 1740 pierces the deformable region 1780. Figure 18B This causes the deformable region to yield and accept the protrusion 1740 into the housing. When the protrusion 1741 enters the housing (as...), Figure 18C As shown), the deformable region 1780 returns to its initial position. Figure 18D), and fix the push-pull tongue 1730 to the connector housing.

[0076] Figure 19A and 19B The removal of the push-pull tongue 1730 is illustrated. A removal tool 1900, which can be shaped like a small screwdriver, presses against the deformable region 1780 to allow the protrusion 1741 to slide along the edge of the deformable region 1780 following the protrusion 1740, thereby releasing the push-pull tongue 1730.

[0077] In order to Figure 20A The first polarity change of the optical connector 1700 is achieved by using... Figure 19A and 19B The removal tool shown is used to... Figure 20B Remove the push-pull tongue 1730. The push-pull tongue moves toward the second housing wall and passes the protrusion 1740 through... Figure 20C The deformable region 1780 is inserted into the housing 1705. The resulting... Figure 20D The polarity of connector 1700R is... Figure 20A The connectors have opposite polarities.

[0078] In another aspect of this disclosure, a retaining member may be disposed within the connector housing to retain the push-pull tongue. For example... Figures 21A-21D As shown, the connector 2100, having a housing 2105, is provided with a front housing portion 2107 and a rear housing portion 2109. Extending from the rear housing portion is a retainer 2111, which may include a pair of retaining clips (as shown) or any other structure configured to retain the push-pull tongue 2130. A receiving surface 2132 is provided on the push-pull tongue 2130 to allow the retainer 2111 to slide along the push-pull tongue during tongue movement. Optionally, when the retainer 2111 includes clips, the clips may be hook-shaped, such as... Figure 21D As shown in the cross-sectional view. The receiving surface 2132 can be a recess with a protrusion along the edge that engages with the hook-shaped edge of the clip.

[0079] In order to change the polarity of connector 2100 from Figure 22A The polarity change shown Figure 22E The second polarity, representing the opposite polarity, removes the retainer 2111 from the receiving surface 2132. When the retainer is removed, the push-pull tongue clip separates from the connector. The push-pull tongue 2130 moves to the opposite outer wall of the housing in Figure 22C, while in 22D it engages the receiving surface 2132 with the retainer 2111. Figure 22E The image shows a fully assembled connector 2100R, which has the opposite polarity to the connector in Figure 22A.

[0080] In the detailed description above, reference has been made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of this description. In the drawings, like reference numerals generally identify like components unless the context otherwise indicates. The illustrative embodiments described in the detailed description section, the drawings, and the claims are not intended to be limiting. Other embodiments may be used, and other changes may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject matter set forth herein. It will be readily understood that, as generally described herein and shown in the accompanying drawings, various aspects of this disclosure can be arranged, substituted, combined, separated, and designed in a variety of different configurations, all of which are expressly contemplated by this disclosure.

[0081] This disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments described herein, which are intended to be illustrative of various aspects. Many modifications and variations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art. In addition to those listed herein, functionally equivalent methods and apparatus within the scope of this disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the foregoing description. These modifications and variations are intended to fall within the scope of the appended claims. This disclosure is limited only by the terms of the appended claims and the full scope of their equivalents. It should be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not restrictive.

[0082] Regarding the use of virtually any plural and / or singular terms in this document, those skilled in the art can appropriately convert from plural to singular and / or from singular to plural depending on the context and / or application. For clarity, various singular / plural substitutions may be explicitly described herein.

[0083] Those skilled in the art will understand that, generally, the terminology used herein, and especially the terminology used in the appended claims (e.g., the body of the appended claims), is intended to be “open” terms (e.g., the term “comprising” should be interpreted as “including but not limited to,” the term “having” should be interpreted as “having at least,” etc.). While various compositions, methods, and apparatuses are described as “comprising” various components or steps (interpreted as “including but not limited to”), compositions, methods, and apparatuses may also be described as “consisting substantially of various components and steps” or “consisting of various components and steps,” and these terms should be interpreted as defining substantially closed groups of elements. Those skilled in the art will further understand that if it is intended to introduce a particular numbered claim statement, such an intent will be expressly stated in that claim, and without such a statement, such an intent does not exist. For example, to aid understanding, the appended claims may contain the introductory phrases “at least one” and “one or more” to introduce the claim statement. However, the use of these phrases should not be construed as implying that introducing a claim statement with the indefinite article “a” or “one” limits any particular claim containing such an introduced claim statement to embodiments containing only one such statement, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrase “one or more” or “at least one” and an indefinite article such as “one” (e.g., “one” should be interpreted as “at least one” or “one or more”); the same applies to the use of definite articles for introducing a claim statement. Furthermore, even when a specific numbered introductory claim statement is explicitly referenced, those skilled in the art will recognize that such a statement should be interpreted as at least indicating the stated number (e.g., an unmodified statement of “two statements” without other modifiers refers to at least two statements, or two or more statements). Moreover, in those cases where conventions such as “at least one of A, B, and C” are used, such a structure is generally intended for those skilled in the art to understand the meaning of that convention (e.g., “a system having at least one of A, B, and C” will include, but is not limited to, systems having A alone, having B alone, having C alone, having A and B, having A and C, having B and C, and / or having A, B, and C, etc.). In cases where a convention similar to "at least one of A, B, or C" is used, such a structure is generally intended for those skilled in the art to understand the meaning of the convention (e.g., "a system having at least one of A, B, or C" will include, but is not limited to, systems having A alone, having B alone, having C alone, having A and B, having A and C, having B and C, and / or having A, B, and C, etc.).Those skilled in the art will further understand that any extractive word and / or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the specification, claims, or drawings, should be understood to include the possibility of including one, any, or both of these terms. For example, the phrase "A or B" will be understood to include the possibility of including "A" or "B" or "A and B".

[0084] Furthermore, where features or aspects of this disclosure are described in the form of Markush groups, those skilled in the art will recognize that this disclosure is therefore also described in the form of any single element or subgroup of elements of the Markush groups.

[0085] As those skilled in the art will understand, for any and all purposes, such as for the purpose of providing a written description, all scopes disclosed herein also encompass any and all possible subscopes and combinations thereof. Any listed scope can be readily identified as sufficiently descriptive and such that the same scope can be decomposed into at least equal halves, thirds, quarters, fifths, tenths, etc. As a non-limiting example, each scope discussed herein can be readily decomposed into a lower third, a middle third, and an upper third, etc. Those skilled in the art will also understand that all language such as “at most”, “at least” includes the stated numbers and refers to a scope that can subsequently be decomposed into subscopes as described above. Finally, as those skilled in the art will understand, a scope includes each individual element. 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 a group having 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 cells, etc.

[0086] Various of the above-disclosed and other features and functions, or alternatives thereof, can be combined into many other different systems or applications. Those skilled in the art can then make various alternatives, modifications, variations, or improvements that are not currently foreseen or anticipated, each of which is also intended to be covered by the disclosed embodiments.

Claims

1. An optical fiber connector, comprising: At least a first optical sleeve and a second optical sleeve; A connector housing having a longitudinal axis and including an outer portion that at least partially surrounds a first optical sleeve and a second optical sleeve such that the outer portion externally accompanies a space receiving each of the first optical sleeve and the second optical sleeve, the outer portion including a first outer wall and a second outer wall located on a side of the space opposite to the first outer wall; A latching connector, located on each of the first and second outer walls of the connector housing; Tongue puller; The fiber optic connector further includes a removable arm having a removable latch and being an independent element from the pull tab, which is used to engage either of a latch connector on a first outer wall and a second outer wall on the connector housing, thereby connecting the removable latch to the corresponding latch connector. Each latch connector includes a groove extending along a longitudinal axis and having an open axial end, and the removable latch includes a protrusion for insertion into the open axial end of the groove by movement relative to the connector housing along the longitudinal axis; and The pull tab includes a pull tab clip that is attached to a cover connected to the connector housing.

2. The fiber optic connector of claim 1, wherein the protrusion is movable relative to the connector housing along a longitudinal axis in each groove.

3. The fiber optic connector of claim 1, wherein the removable latch includes a base portion and a pressable latch arm connected to the base portion.

4. The fiber optic connector of claim 3, wherein the pressable latch arm has a front end portion connected to the base portion, a free rear end portion separated from the front end portion along a longitudinal axis, and an outwardly facing longitudinal surface extending from the front end portion to the free rear end portion along a longitudinal axis.

5. The fiber optic connector of claim 4, wherein the free rear end portion of the pressable latch arm is configured to be received in an opening of the receiver and includes a rear-facing surface configured to engage the receiver when received in the opening to prevent the fiber optic connector from being removed from the receiver.

6. The fiber optic connector of claim 5, wherein the free rear end portion of the pressable latch arm is raised relative to the front end portion, and wherein the removable latch is bendable such that the free rear end portion can be pressed toward the base portion to remove the free rear end portion from the opening and unlock the fiber optic connector from the receiver.

7. The fiber optic connector of claim 1, wherein the connector housing comprises a single front body and a single rear body.

8. The fiber optic connector according to claim 7, further comprising a first sleeve spring and a second sleeve spring respectively housed on the first optical sleeve and the second optical sleeve.

9. The fiber optic connector according to claim 1, wherein the first optical sleeve and the second optical sleeve have a spacing of less than 6.25 mm.

10. The fiber optic connector according to claim 1, wherein the first optical sleeve and the second optical sleeve have a spacing of less than 5.25 mm.

11. The fiber optic connector of claim 1, wherein the first optical sleeve and the second optical sleeve have a pitch of approximately 4.8 mm or less.

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