Cannula holder assembly

Abstract

A ferrule holder assembly that can support groups of transceiver ferrules in an optical connector interface of an optical transceiver. A first holder body holds a first group of transceiver ferrules and has a holder-to-holder interface. A generally identical second holder body holds a second group of transceiver ferrules. The holder-to-holder interface of the first holder body engages the holder-to-holder interface of the second holder body to operably align the first holder body with the second holder body to position the first group of transceiver ferrules and the second group of transceiver ferrules in the optical connector interface for optical connection with one or more optical connectors inserted into the optical connector interface. The ferrule holder assembly can be used in combination with a preterminated fiber array to couple the optical interface to a circuit board in a transceiver.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 031,697, filed May 29, 2020, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure generally relates to components used in an optical connector interface of a transceiver. Background Technology

[0004] The widespread adoption of the Internet has led to unprecedented growth in communication networks. Consumer demand for services and increased competition have driven network providers to constantly seek ways to improve service quality while reducing costs.

[0005] Some solutions involve the deployment of high-density interconnect panels. High-density interconnect panels can be designed to consolidate the increased volume of the interconnects necessary to support rapidly growing networks into a compact form factor, thereby improving service quality and reducing costs such as footprint and support overhead. However, in the data center space, especially when it comes to fiber optic connections, there is still room for improvement. For example, connector and adapter manufacturers always want to reduce the size of their devices while increasing ease of deployment, robustness, and modifiability after deployment. In particular, to provide backward compatibility with existing data center equipment, it may be necessary to accommodate more optical connectors in the same coverage area as previously used for a smaller number of connectors. For example, one current coverage area is called the Small Form Factor Pluggable Transceiver (SFP) coverage area. This coverage area currently accommodates two LC-type sleeve optical connectors. However, it may be desirable to accommodate four optical connectors (two transmit / receive full-duplex connectors) in the same coverage area. Another current coverage area is the Quad Form Factor Pluggable (QSFP) Transceiver Coverage Area. This coverage area currently accommodates four LC-type sleeve optical connectors. However, it may be desirable to accommodate eight LC-type sleeve optical connectors (four transmit / receive duplex connectors) within the same coverage area.

[0006] In communication networks such as data centers and switching networks, numerous interconnections between mating connectors can be compressed into high-density panels. Panel and connector manufacturers can optimize for this high density by reducing connector size and / or the spacing between adjacent connectors on the panel. While both methods can effectively increase panel connector density, reducing connector size and / or spacing also increases support costs and reduces service quality.

[0007] In high-density panel constructions, adjacent connectors and cable assemblies can obstruct access to individual release mechanisms. This physical obstruction can hinder the operator's ability to minimize stress applied to the cable and connector. These stresses can be applied, for example, when a user reaches into a dense connector bank and pushes aside surrounding optical fibers and connectors to access an individual connector release mechanism with his / her thumb and index finger. Excessive cable and connector stress can create potential defects, compromise the integrity and / or reliability of the termination, and can result in serious disruption of network performance.

[0008] While an operator can attempt to use a tool, such as a screwdriver, to reach into a dense connector bank and actuate the release mechanism, adjacent cables and connectors can obstruct the operator's line of sight, making it difficult to direct the tool to the release mechanism without pushing aside adjacent cables. Moreover, even when the operator has a clear line of sight, directing the tool to the release mechanism can be a time-consuming process. Thus, using a tool can not be efficient in reducing support time and improving service quality. SUMMARY

[0009] In one aspect, a grouped ferrule holder assembly is configured to support a plurality of transceiver ferrules in an optical connector interface of an optical transceiver. The grouped ferrule holder assembly includes a first holder body configured to hold a first group of transceiver ferrules. The first holder body includes a holder-to-holder interface. A second holder body is configured to hold a second group of transceiver ferrules. The second holder body includes a holder-to-holder interface. The holder-to-holder interface of the first holder body is configured to engage the holder-to-holder interface of the second holder body to operably align the first holder body with the second holder body to position the first group of transceiver ferrules and the second group of transceiver ferrules in the optical connector interface for optical connection with one or more optical connectors inserted into the optical connector interface.

[0010] In another aspect, the present disclosure also provides a transceiver including an optical interface including a grouped ferrule holder assembly.

[0011] In another aspect, a method of manufacturing a transceiver includes assembling a grouped holder assembly, securing the grouped holder assembly in an optical connector interface of the transceiver, and connecting optical fibers between a plurality of ferrules held by the grouped ferrule holder assembly and one or more board-mounted connectors on a circuit board of the transceiver.

[0012] In another aspect, a preterminated fiber optic array assembly includes a preterminated fiber optic array. The preterminated fiber optic array includes a plurality of transceiver ferrules and a plurality of optical fibers. Each of the plurality of optical fibers has a first end portion terminated by one of the plurality of transceiver ferrules and an opposite second end portion. A multi-fiber connector terminates the second end portions of the plurality of optical fibers. The multi-fiber connector is configured to be coupled to a board mounted connector on a circuit board of a transceiver. At least one retainer body holds the plurality of transceiver ferrules. Each retainer body includes a retainer to retainer interface configured to couple the retainer body to another identical retainer body to form a grouped ferrule retainer assembly.

[0013] In another aspect, a method of manufacturing a transceiver includes connecting at least one retainer body of a preterminated fiber optic array assembly to another retainer body to form a grouped ferrule retainer assembly. The grouped ferrule retainer assembly is secured in an optical connector interface of the transceiver and a multi-fiber connector of the preterminated fiber optic array is connected to a board mounted connector on a circuit board of the transceiver.

[0014] Other aspects will be in part apparent and in part pointed out below. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0015] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a dual ferrule retainer;

[0016] Figure 2 is another perspective view of a dual ferrule retainer;

[0017] Figure 3 is a plan view of a dual ferrule retainer;

[0018] Figure 4 is another perspective view of a dual ferrule retainer;

[0019] Figure 5A is an elevational view of a transceiver ferrule;

[0020] Figure 5B is an elevational view of a pin of a transceiver ferrule;

[0021] Figure 5C is a perspective view of an alignment sleeve of a transceiver ferrule;

[0022] Figure 5D is a perspective view of a resiliently compressible ring of a transceiver ferrule;

[0023] Figure 6A is an exploded perspective view of a grouped ferrule retainer assembly made up of four identical dual ferrule retainers;

[0024] Figure 6B is another exploded perspective view of a grouped ferrule retainer assembly;

[0025] Figure 6C is another perspective view of a double ferrule holder;

[0026] Figure 6D is a perspective view of an assembled ferrule holder assembly;

[0027] Figure 7 is an exploded perspective view with illustrative arrows showing how two double ferrule holders are connected together;

[0028] Figure 8 is a plan view of a ferrule holder assembly;

[0029] Figure 9 is an elevation view of a ferrule holder assembly;

[0030] Figure 10 is a perspective view of a ferrule holder assembly;

[0031] Figure 11 is a perspective view of a ferrule holder assembly secured to a carrier frame of an optical interface and connected to a fiber array;

[0032] Figure 12A is a perspective view of a pre-terminated fiber array assembly illustratively shown, the pre-terminated fiber array assembly including a double ferrule holder, a pair of optical fibers, and a multi-fiber optical connector;

[0033] Figure 12B is a perspective view of a pre-terminated fiber array assembly illustratively shown, the pre-terminated fiber array assembly including two double ferrule holders, four optical fibers, and a multi-fiber optical connector;

[0034] Figure 12C is a perspective view of a pre-terminated fiber array assembly illustratively shown, the pre-terminated fiber array assembly including a ferrule holder assembly, eight optical fibers, and a multi-fiber optical connector;

[0035] Figure 13A is a partial perspective view of an assembly including a ferrule holder assembly secured to a carrier frame and optical fibers terminated by the ferrule of the ferrule holder assembly;

[0036] Figure 13B is a partial perspective view of a ferrule holder assembly and optical fibers terminated by the ferrule of the ferrule holder assembly;

[0037] Figure 14 is a perspective view of an assembly including a ferrule holder assembly and a fiber array extending between the ferrules of the ferrule holder assembly and opposing connectors, the ferrule holder assembly consisting of two four-ferrule holders;

[0038] Figure 15 is a perspective view of a preterminated fiber optic assembly including four ferrules, four optical fibers, and a multi-fiber connector;

[0039] Figure 16 is a close-up view of a portion of Figure 14

[0040] Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view through a four-ferrule holder;

[0041] Figure 18 is a perspective view of a ferrule holder assembly including two four-ferrule holders;

[0042] Figure 19A is a perspective view of a four-ferrule holder;

[0043] Figure 19B is a cross-sectional view of a four-ferrule holder;

[0044] Figure 19C is a cross-sectional perspective view of a four-ferrule holder;

[0045] Figure 19D is a plan view of a four-ferrule holder terminating four optical fibers;

[0046] Figure 19E is a cross-sectional view of a four-ferrule holder fitted with four ferrules of different sizes;

[0047] Figure 19F is a perspective view of a four-ferrule holder terminating four optical fibers;

[0048] Figure 20 is a perspective view of an assembly including Figure 15 wherein the ferrules are held by a four-ferrule holder;

[0049] Figure 21 is a perspective view similar to Figure 14 ;

[0050] Figure 22 is another perspective view of an assembly of Figure 21 ;

[0051] Figure 23 is another perspective view of a ferrule holder assembly terminating an array of optical fibers and secured to a carrier frame;

[0052] Figure 24 is an exploded perspective view showing how the assembly of Figure 23 is attached to an adapter latch hook;

[0053] Figure 25 is an assembly of Figure 21 ​another perspective view of the assembly of

[0054] Figure 26 is an exploded perspective view showing Figure 23 how the assembly of

[0055] Figure 27 is a perspective view of the connector;

[0056] Figure 28 is a perspective view of the transceiver; and

[0057] Figure 29 is another perspective view of the transceiver.

[0058] In all of the figures, corresponding parts are given corresponding reference numerals. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0059] The present disclosure relates generally to optical transceiver interface components. Optical transceivers are known to those skilled in the art. Generally, optical transceivers include a circuit board having one or more optical components operably connected to the circuit board. Typically, these optical components include emitters (e.g., laser components) configured to output optical signals and receivers configured to detect optical signals.

[0060] One common type of transceiver is a pluggable transceiver module. These modules include a daughter board having an electrical interface at one end and an optical interface at an opposite end. The electrical interface end portion of the pluggable transceiver module can be inserted into a computing device, such as a server rack, to make electrical connections between the daughter board and a mother board. Typically, the optical interface at the opposite end includes an adapter that allows one or more standard optical connectors to be inserted into the transceiver, thereby forming optical connections.

[0061] The inventors have recognized that modern developments in optical connector technology have created opportunities to improve certain aspects of the optical connector interface on optical transceivers, such as pluggable transceiver modules. In particular, in recent years, the form factor of optical connectors has been significantly reduced, resulting in an increase in signal path density.

[0062] As noted above, modern developments in optical connector technology have created opportunities to connect at least twice as many optical signal paths in the same adapter footprint. For example, the relatively new connector enables the optical interface of a QFSP transceiver to mate with two connectors, each connector including a duplex LC ferrule. Moreover, the SN TM and MDC connectors still allow for greater density. With the SN TMA QSFP transceiver with an MDC optical interface can be connected to four duplex connectors, each with a pair of first and second LC fiber optic sleeves.

[0063] This significant increase in signal path density has the potential to enhance the transceiver's capabilities. However, the inventors have recognized that with this increased capability comes an increase in transceiver complexity, particularly the increased complexity of forming more than twice the number of internal signal paths between the daughterboard and the optical interface.

[0064] Figure 29 It shows a configuration with four SNs TM The transceiver 10 of the optical interface 12 is mated with connector 14. Figure 29 In this design, the housing of transceiver 10 has been removed to expose the internal components. Transceiver 10 includes a circuit board 16 and one or more board-mounted connectors 18 arranged on the circuit board and operatively communicating with one or more active optical components (e.g., transmitters and / or receivers). A fiber optic array 20 extends between the optical interface 12 and the board-mounted connectors 18. The fiber optic array 20 includes a plurality of loosely or bundled optical fibers, each fiber having a first end connected to a sleeve (not shown) in the optical interface 12 and a second end terminated by one or more connectors 22 coupled to one or more board-mounted connectors 18. It can be seen that the fiber optic array 20 can become complex due to the high density of optical fibers in the optical interface 12, especially when the array is connected to the board 16 using more than one board-mounted connector.

[0065] High-density optical interfaces allow transceiver circuit boards to be configured with a variety of on-board connector configurations. Thus, for example, a modern circuit board for an eight-tube optical interface may include one, two, or four on-board connectors. For a circuit board with two on-board connectors, the first on-board connector may be configured to connect four fibers in the fiber array to four transmitters, and the second on-board connector may be configured to connect the other four fibers in the fiber array to four receivers. In a board with four on-board connectors, each on-board connector may be configured to connect one transmitter and one receiver to a pair of fibers in the fiber array.

[0066] As explained more fully below, the inventors have devised a way to simplify the assembly process for transceivers by providing a grouped ferrule holder assembly that operably holds a group of two or more transceiver ferrules within the optical interface of a transceiver. As will become apparent, the present disclosure generally relates to a grouped ferrule holder assembly consisting of two or more ferrule holder bodies that can be connected together and secured to the optical interface of a transceiver to operably position at least four transceiver ferrules in the optical interface for optical connection with an optical connector that is subsequently inserted into the optical interface of the transceiver.

[0067] In the following disclosure, two exemplary embodiments of a grouped ferrule holder assembly are discussed. The first embodiment includes two or more ferrule holder bodies, each configured to hold two ferrules (broadly, each holder body is configured to hold a group of ferrules). The second embodiment of a grouped ferrule holder assembly discussed below includes two or more ferrule holder bodies, each configured to hold four transceiver ferrules. Although two specific embodiments are described below, it should be understood that other configurations of a grouped ferrule holder assembly consisting of two or more multi-ferrule holder bodies that can be connected together and operably secured to the optical interface of a transceiver can also be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0068] With reference to Figures 1-10 , an exemplary embodiment of a grouped ferrule holder assembly configured to support a plurality of transceiver ferrules 102 in an optical connector interface of an optical transceiver is generally indicated at reference numeral 110. The grouped ferrule holder assembly 110 includes at least two holder bodies (e.g., first and second holder bodies) 112, and typically includes four holder bodies that can be connected together to position the ferrules 102 as needed according to a given optical connector interface of a transceiver. In the figures, each holder body 112 is configured to hold a respective group of two transceiver ferrules 102. More specifically, each body 112 holds first and second transceiver ferrules 102 at a 3.1 mm pitch ( Figure 10 ) that corresponds to the ferrule pitch in an SN TM connector. When the first holder body 112 is operably connected to the second holder body, the first group of ferrules in the first holder is spaced apart from the first group of ferrules in the second holder by a pitch of approximately 3.9 mm, which corresponds to the standard lateral pitch between ferrules of an adjacent SN TM adapter mating SN TM connector.

[0069] SNR for a transceiver is described in greater detail in U.S. Patent Application No. 2020 / 0018909, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein for all purposes. Although the ferrule holder assembly 110 is shown used in an SNR TM Certain exemplary components of the optical interface are described in greater detail in U.S. Patent Application No. 2020 / 0018909, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein for all purposes. Although the ferrule holder assembly 110 is shown used in an SNR TM connector interface, it should be understood that the ferrule holder assembly can be adapted for use with other types of connector interfaces, such as other duplex connector interface formats, including optical connector interfaces for duplex LC connectors, connectors and MDC connectors, etc.

[0070] Within the assembled ferrule holder assembly 110 shown, each holder body 112 is configured to hold a respective set of two transceiver ferrules 102 for forming connections to first and second connector ferrules of a single connector. It should be understood that first and second ferrule holder bodies 112 can be connected to form an optical interface for two connectors; first, second, and third ferrule holder bodies can be connected to form an optical interface for three connectors; first, second, third, and fourth ferrule holder bodies can be connected to form an optical interface for four connectors, etc. Thus, the illustrated set ferrule holder assembly 110 is configured to hold n transceiver ferrules 102 in (n / 2) connector optical interfaces once assembled.

[0071] Referring to Figures 5A to 5D In the exemplary embodiment, each transceiver ferrule 102 is a relatively short cylindrical ferrule including a ceramic ferrule pin portion 103. In Figure 5A the transceiver ferrule 102 is oriented with its end facing the right toward the connector of the insertion optical interface. The ferrule 102 includes a pin 104 on the opposite end, which can provide strain relief. An alignment sleeve 105 is disposed on the ferrule body 103, and a resiliently compressible O-ring 106 is disposed around the alignment sleeve. The alignment sleeve 105 defines a shoulder toward which the end of the ferrule 102 faces. The O-ring 106 is seated against the shoulder.

[0072] Referring to Figure 6CIn the illustrated embodiment, each retainer body 112 includes a retainer body block 114 and a surface plate 116 secured to the retainer body block. Each retainer body block 114 defines two receptacles 117, each configured to receive a flange portion of a transceiver ferrule of a ferrule set held by the retainer body 112. In the illustrated embodiment, the “flange portion” of a transceiver ferrule includes the alignment sleeve 105 and at least a portion of the O-ring 106. The receptacles 117 of the retainer body block 114 have a stepped shape that corresponds to the shape of the flange portion of the transceiver ferrule 102. Each surface plate 116 defines a ferrule opening through which the pin portion 103 of each transceiver ferrule 102 extends from the corresponding receptacle 117 in the retainer block 114 to protrude from the retainer body 112. The surface plate 116 presses the elastically compressible O-ring 106 against the shoulder of the sleeve 105 to retain the transceiver ferrule 102 in the retainer body 112 (see also Figure 4 Any suitable method of securing the surface plate 116 to the retainer body block 114 can be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure, including, for example, adhesive bonding, welding, mechanical interlocking components, fasteners, etc.

[0073] A ferrule retainer body within the scope of the present disclosure can include a retainer-to-retainer interface. Generally, a retainer-to-retainer interface of a first retainer body is configured to engage a retainer-to-retainer interface of a second retainer body to operably align the first retainer body with the second retainer body to position a first set of transceiver ferrules and a second set of transceiver ferrules in an optical connector interface for optical connection with one or more optical connectors inserted into the optical connector interface. In certain embodiments, a retainer-to-retainer interface of a third ferrule retainer body is configured to engage a retainer-to-retainer interface of a second ferrule retainer body to further operably align the third retainer body with the first and second retainer bodies. Further, a retainer-to-retainer interface of a fourth ferrule retainer body can be configured to engage a retainer-to-retainer interface of a third ferrule retainer body to operably align the fourth retainer body with the first, second, and third retainer bodies, etc.

[0074] Referring to Figure 3In the case of the holder body 112, the holder-to-holder interface comprises a first holder-to-holder interface portion 118 along a first side edge of the respective holder body and a second holder-to-holder interface portion 120 along a second side edge of the respective holder body. Broadly, each first holder-to-holder interface portion 118 has a shape and each second holder-to-holder interface portion 120 has a complementary shape configured to fit into the first holder-to-holder interface portion of an adjacent holder body 112. More specifically, each first holder-to-holder interface portion 118 comprises a channel and each second holder-to-holder interface portion 120 comprises a flange configured to be received in the channel.

[0075] Referring to Figure 3 In the illustrated embodiment, each interface channel portion 118 is formed by first and second outriggers 122 spaced apart from one another by a gap 124 at opposite end portions of the holder body 112. Each outrigger 122 defines a recess 126 between a major side surface 128 of the body 110 and a parallel portion 130 of the outrigger. Each recess 126 has an open end and a closed end spaced apart along the sleeve axis. The closed end of each recess 126 is bounded by a stop face 131 of the outrigger 122.

[0076] Each interface flange portion 120 comprises a stem 132 projecting laterally from opposite major side surfaces 134 of the holder body 112. Two wings 136 project laterally outwardly from opposite ends of the stem 132. The wings 136 are spaced apart from the major side surfaces 134 of the holder body 112 to define respective slots 138.

[0077] Referring to Figure 7 To connect a first sleeve holder body 112 to a second sleeve holder body (and so on), the wings 136 of the flange portion 120 of the first sleeve holder body are aligned with the open ends of the recesses 126 of the second sleeve holder body and are then pushed into the recesses until the wings engage the stop faces 130. This interlocks the first and second holder bodies, thereby connecting them together via the integral holder-to-holder interface. Once connected, the stem 132 fits in the gap 124, the wings 136 fit in the recesses 126, and the portions 130 of the outriggers 122 fit in the slots 138. Thus, it can be seen that the illustrated holder bodies 112 are equipped with integral holder-to-holder interface portions 118, 120 that enable the holder bodies 112 to be connected in a side-by-side relationship to form a grouped sleeve holder assembly 110 by mechanical interlocking of the holder bodies.

[0078] In the illustrated embodiment, each holder body 112 comprises a removable fastener 140 (e.g., a screw; seeFigure 8 ) and / or a corresponding fastener-receiving opening 142 (see, e.g., Figure 1 ) in which the fastener 140 is received. The fastener 140 in the retainer body 112 is configured to hold the set of ferrule retainer assemblies 110 in the optical interface of the transceiver.

[0079] Referring to Figure 11 , the fastener 140 can be used to attach the set of ferrule retainer assemblies 110 to the backside of a carrier frame 150 of the optical interface of the transceiver. In one or more embodiments, the carrier frame 150 includes a plate portion having a plurality of openings corresponding to the ferrules 102 held in the set of ferrule retainer assemblies 110. As Figure 24 illustrated, the illustrated carrier frame 150 is configured to couple with a set of adapter hooks 152 (broadly, an adapter structure or an adapter latching structure) that are configured to latch with a set of standard SN TM connectors 154 Figure 26 ) (e.g., four standard SN TM connectors). As Figure 26 illustrated, the larger assembly including the ferrule retainer assemblies 110 and the carrier frame 150 is further coupled to the adapter hooks 152 inside an optical adapter housing 156 to form an optical interface 157 at the optical interface end of the transceiver 160. Thus, it can be seen that the ferrule retainers 112 can be assembled together to form a ferrule retainer assembly 110 that holds a plurality of ferrules 102 in the optical interface 157 of the transceiver 160.

[0080] Referring to Figures 12A-12C , the transceiver ferrules 102 in each retainer body 112 are configured to terminate optical fibers 162 of an optical fiber array 164. The opposite ends of the optical fibers are preferably terminated by a multi-fiber connector 166 that is configured to connect to a board-mounted connector on a circuit board of the transceiver 160. As Figures 12A-12C illustrated, the set of ferrule retainer assemblies 110 can be used with variously configured optical fiber arrays 160.

[0081] Figures 12A-12C Each of FIGS. 1-3 illustrates an exemplary pre-terminated optical fiber array 180, 180’, 180” assembled according to the present disclosure. In Figure 12AIn the example shown, the pre-terminated fiber array assembly 180 includes a pre-terminated dual fiber assembly that includes two transceiver ferrules 102, two optical fibers 162, and a multi-fiber connector 166. Each transceiver ferrule 102 terminates a first end of one of the optical fibers 162, and the multi-fiber connector 166 terminates the opposite second ends of the two optical fibers. As can be seen, the holder body 112 holds the two ferrules 102 of the pre-terminated dual fiber array in an operative position for installation in the optical interface 157 of the transceiver 160. Thus, in an exemplary method of manufacturing a transceiver according to the present disclosure, the ferrules 102 of the pre-terminated fiber array assembly 180 are installed in the holder body 112 to form an assembly 180 that includes optical fibers extending between (i) the group of ferrules held in an operative position by the holder (at one end) and (ii) the multi-fiber connector 166 configured to be inserted into a multi-fiber connector on a transceiver circuit board (at the other end). The holder body 112 of the assembly 180 is connected to one or more additional holder bodies (e.g., the holder bodies of additional pre-terminated fiber array assemblies 180 or 180’) to form a grouped ferrule holder assembly 110. The grouped ferrule holder assembly 110 is then installed in the optical interface 157 of the transceiver 160, and each pre-terminated multi-fiber connector is inserted into a corresponding board-mounted connector on the circuit board. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that, in certain embodiments, the dual fiber connector 166 of each pre-terminated fiber array assembly 180 can be configured to connect to a board-mounted connector that communicates with one transmitter (TX) and one receiver (RX).

[0082] In Figure 12B In the example shown, the pre-terminated fiber array assembly 180 includes a pre-terminated dual fiber assembly that includes two transceiver ferrules 102, two optical fibers 162, and a multi-fiber connector 166. Each transceiver ferrule 102 terminates a first end of one of the optical fibers 162, and the multi-fiber connector 166 terminates the opposite second ends of the two optical fibers. As can be seen, the holder body 112 holds the two ferrules 102 of the pre-terminated dual fiber array in an operative position for installation in the optical interface 157 of the transceiver 160. Thus, in an exemplary method of manufacturing a transceiver according to the present disclosure, the ferrules 102 of the pre-terminated fiber array assembly 180 are installed in the holder body 112 to form an assembly 180 that includes optical fibers extending between (i) the group of ferrules held in an operative position by the holder (at one end) and (ii) the multi-fiber connector 166 configured to be inserted into a multi-fiber connector on a transceiver circuit board (at the other end). The holder body 112 of the assembly 180 is connected to one or more additional holder bodies (e.g., the holder bodies of additional pre-terminated fiber array assemblies 180 or 180’) to form a grouped ferrule holder assembly 110. The grouped ferrule holder assembly 110 is then installed in the optical interface 157 of the transceiver 160, and each pre-terminated multi-fiber connector is inserted into a corresponding board-mounted connector on the circuit board. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that, in certain embodiments, the dual fiber connector 166 of each pre-terminated fiber array assembly 180 can be configured to connect to a board-mounted connector that communicates with one transmitter (TX) and one receiver (RX).

[0083] In Figure 12CIn this embodiment, the pre-terminated fiber array assembly 180" includes a pre-terminated eight-fiber assembly that includes eight transceiver ferrules 102, eight optical fibers 162, and a multi-fiber connector 166. Each transceiver ferrule 102 terminates a first end of one of the optical fibers 162, and the multi-fiber connector 166 terminates the opposite second end of all eight optical fibers. As can be seen, four retainer bodies 112 hold the eight ferrules 102 of the pre-terminated eight-fiber array in an operative position for installation in the optical interface 157 of the transceiver 160. The pre-terminated fiber array assembly 180 can be assembled into the ferrule retainer assembly 110 in groups for installation in the optical interface 157 of the transceiver, and the pre-terminated multi-fiber connector 166 can be inserted into a corresponding board-mounted connector on a circuit board. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that in certain embodiments, the eight-fiber connector 166 of each pre-terminated fiber array assembly 180" can be configured to connect to a board-mounted connector in communication with four transmitters (TX) and four receivers (RX).

[0084] Referring to Figures 14-23 A second exemplary embodiment of a ferrule retainer assembly configured to support a plurality of transceiver ferrules 102 in an optical connector interface of an optical transceiver is generally designated 210. The ferrule retainer assembly 210 includes two retainer bodies (e.g., first and second retainer bodies) 212 that can be connected together to position the ferrules 102 as needed for a given optical connector interface 157 of a transceiver 160. In the drawings, each retainer body 212 is configured to hold a respective group of four transceiver ferrules 102. More specifically, each body 212 holds first, second, third, and fourth transceiver ferrules 102 at a 3.9 mm pitch that corresponds to the standard transverse spacing between ferrules of an SN TM Adapter-mated adjacent SN TM connectors. When the first retainer body 212 is operatively connected to the second retainer body, the first group of ferrules 102 in the first retainer is spaced apart from the first group of ferrules in the second retainer by a pitch of about 3.1 mm, which corresponds to the standard ferrule spacing of a single SN TM connector.

[0085] In the illustrated embodiment, each retainer body 212 includes a retainer body block 214 and a surface plate 216 fixed to the retainer body block. Each retainer body block 214 defines four receptacles 217 for receiving the flange portion of each transceiver sleeve 102 in a group of sleeves held by the retainer body 212. Each receptacle has a stepped shape corresponding to the shape of the flange portion of the transceiver sleeve 102. Each surface plate 216 defines a sleeve opening through which a pin portion 103 of each transceiver sleeve 102 extends from the corresponding receptacle 217 to protrude from the retainer body 212. The surface plate 216 presses an elastically compressible O-ring 106 against the shoulder of a sleeve 105 to retain the transceiver sleeve 102 within the retainer body 212 (see also...). Figure 4 Without departing from the scope of this disclosure, any suitable method may be used to secure the surface plate 216 to the retainer block 214, including, for example, adhesive bonding, welding, mechanical interlocking components, fasteners, etc.

[0086] The retainer body 212 includes a retainer-to-retainer interface 218 along one end of the retainer body. In the illustrated embodiment, the retainer-to-retainer interface 218 includes at least one mortise 220 (broadly, receiver) and at least one tenon 222 (broadly, post) configured to connect to the mortise by friction fit. More specifically, each retainer-to-retainer interface 218 includes two mortises 220 and two tenons 22 alternating along the length of an end of the retainer body 212. The retainer bodies 212 are identical, such that when the first retainer body is in a first orientation and the second retainer body is in a second reverse orientation (e.g., ... Figure 16 and 18 As shown, the mortise 220 of the first retainer body is aligned with the tenon 222 of the second retainer body, so that the first and second retainer bodies can be press-fitted together.

[0087] In the illustrated embodiment, each retainer body 212 includes a plurality of removable fasteners 240 (e.g., screws) and / or a corresponding fastener receiving opening 242 therein for receiving / engaging the fasteners. The fasteners 240 in the retainer body 212 are configured to secure the retainers of the group of sleeve retainer assemblies 210 in the optical interface 257 of the transceiver 260.

[0088] Reference Figures 22-24The fasteners 240 can be used to attach the set of ferrule holder assemblies 210 to the backside of the carrier frame 150 in the same manner as the holder assemblies 110. Thus, it can be seen that the ferrule holders 212 can be assembled together to form a ferrule holder assembly 210 that, in combination with the carrier frame 150, the latch adapter hooks 152, and the optical adapter housing 156, secures a plurality of ferrules 102 in the optical interface 157 of the transceiver 160 for optical connection with the connector 254 inserted into the optical interface.

[0089] Referring to Figure 20 and 21 Similar to the set of ferrule holder assemblies 110 described above, the set of ferrule holder assemblies can be used in combination with a terminated fiber array to form a pre-terminated fiber array assembly 280, 280’ that can be relatively easily installed within the transceiver 160. In Figure 20 particular, the pre-terminated fiber array assembly 280 includes a pre-terminated four-fiber assembly that includes four transceiver ferrules 102, four optical fibers 162, and a multi-fiber connector 166. Each transceiver ferrule 102 terminates a first end of one of the optical fibers 162, and the multi-fiber connector 166 terminates opposite second ends of the four optical fibers. It can be seen that the holder bodies 212 hold the four ferrules 102 of the pre-terminated four-fiber array in an operative position for installation in the optical interface 157 of the transceiver 160. Thus, in an exemplary method of manufacturing a transceiver according to the present disclosure, the ferrules 102 of the pre-terminated fiber array 280 are installed in the holder bodies 212 to form the assembly 280 that includes optical fibers extending between (i) the set of ferrules held in an operative position by the holders (at one end) and (ii) the multi-fiber connector 166 configured to be inserted into a multi-fiber connector on a circuit board of the transceiver (at the other end). The holder bodies 212 of the assembly 280 are connected to one or more additional holder bodies (e.g., additional holder bodies of pre-terminated fiber array assemblies 280) to form a set of ferrule holder assemblies 210. The set of ferrule holder assemblies 210 are then installed in the optical interface 157 of the transceiver 160, and each pre-terminated multi-fiber connector is inserted into a corresponding board-mounted connector on the circuit board. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that, in certain embodiments, the four-fiber connector 166 of each pre-terminated fiber array assembly 280 can be configured to connect to a board-mounted connector in communication with four transmitters (TX) or four receivers (RX).

[0090] In Figure 21In this case, the preterminated fiber array assembly 280' includes a preterminated eight-fiber assembly that includes eight transceiver ferrules 102, eight optical fibers 162, and a multi-fiber connector 166. Each transceiver ferrule 102 terminates a first end of one of the optical fibers 162, and the multi-fiber connector 166 terminates the opposite second end of all eight optical fibers. As can be seen, two retainer bodies 212 (one set of ferrule retainer assembly 210) hold the eight ferrules 102 of the preterminated eight-fiber array in an operative position for installation in the optical interface 157 of the transceiver 160. The preterminated fiber array assembly 280' can be installed in the optical interface 157 of the transceiver, and the preterminated multi-fiber connector 166 can be plugged into a corresponding board-mounted connector on the circuit board. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that in certain embodiments, the eight-fiber connector 166 of each preterminated fiber array assembly 180" can be configured to connect to a board-mounted connector that communicates with four transmitters (TX) and four receivers (RX).

[0091] When introducing elements of the present disclosure or the preferred embodiments(s) thereof, the articles "a", "an", "the" and "said" are intended to mean that there are one or more than one of the elements. The terms "comprising", "including" and "having" are intended to be inclusive and allow for additional elements.

[0092] In light of the above, it will be seen that the objects of the disclosure are achieved and other advantageous results attained.

[0093] As various changes could be made in the above products and methods without departing from the scope of the disclosure, it is intended that all matter contained in the above description be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense.

Claims

1. A sleeve retainer assembly for an optical connector interface of an optical transceiver, the optical connector interface including an adapter housing and configured to allow one or more optical connectors to be inserted into the adapter housing, the sleeve retainer assembly comprising: A first retainer body, the first retainer body being configured to retain a first set of transceiver sleeves, the first retainer body including a retainer-to-retainer interface; as well as A second retainer body, configured to retain a second set of transceiver sleeves, the second retainer body including a retainer-to-retainer interface; The retainer-to-retainer interface of the first retainer body is configured to engage the retainer-to-retainer interface of the second retainer body to operatively align the first retainer body and the second retainer body to position the first set of transceiver sleeves and the second set of transceiver sleeves relative to the optical connector interface for optical connection with one or more optical connectors inserted into the adapter housing. The sleeve retainer assembly is configured to support a plurality of transceiver sleeves in the optical transceiver between the optical connector interface and the circuit board of the optical transceiver, such that the plurality of transceiver sleeves are located inside the peripheral coverage area of ​​the adapter housing and are capable of establishing an optical connection with the one or more optical connectors inserted into the adapter housing.

2. The sleeve retainer assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The first holder body and the second holder body are configured to hold an equal number of transceiver sleeves.

3. The sleeve retainer assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The first holder body and the second holder body are each configured to hold two transceiver sleeves.

4. The sleeve retainer assembly according to claim 3, wherein, The first retainer body is configured to retain the first set of transceiver sleeves in the optical connector interface for connection with the first and second connector sleeves of the first optical connector inserted into the optical connector interface, and the second retainer body is configured to retain the second set of transceiver sleeves in the optical connector interface for connection with the first and second connector sleeves of the second optical connector inserted into the optical connector interface.

5. The sleeve retainer assembly according to claim 3, wherein, The first retainer body is configured to hold a first set of sleeves at a spacing of approximately 3.1 mm, and the second retainer body is configured to hold a second set of sleeves at a spacing of approximately 3.1 mm.

6. The sleeve retainer assembly according to claim 4, wherein, When the retainer-to-retainer interface of the first retainer body is operably engaged with the retainer-to-retainer interface of the second retainer body to operably align the first retainer body and the second retainer body, the first set of sleeves is spaced apart from the second set of sleeves at a pitch of approximately 3.9 mm.

7. The sleeve retainer assembly of claim 1, further comprising a third retainer body configured to retain a third set of sleeves and including a retainer-to-retainer interface, the retainer-to-retainer interface of the third retainer body being configured to engage the retainer-to-retainer interface of the second retainer body to operatively align the third retainer body with the first retainer body and the second retainer body.

8. The cannula retainer assembly of claim 7, further comprising a fourth retainer body configured to retain a fourth set of cannulas and including a retainer-to-retainer interface, the retainer-to-retainer interface of the fourth retainer body being configured to engage the retainer-to-retainer interface of the third retainer body to operatively align the fourth retainer body with the first retainer body, the second retainer body, and the third retainer body.

9. The sleeve retainer assembly according to claim 7, wherein, The retainer-to-retainer interface of each of the first retainer body, the second retainer body, and the third retainer body includes a first retainer-to-retainer interface portion along a first side edge of the respective retainer body and a second retainer-to-retainer interface portion along a second side edge of the respective retainer body.

10. The sleeve retainer assembly according to claim 9, wherein, Each first retainer-to-retainer interface portion has a shape, and each second retainer-to-retainer interface portion has a complementary shape configured to fit into a first retainer-to-retainer interface portion of another retainer body.

11. The sleeve retainer assembly according to claim 9, wherein, Each first retainer-to-retainer interface portion includes a channel, and each second retainer-to-retainer interface portion includes a flange configured to be received in the channel.

12. The sleeve retainer assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The first holder body and the second holder body are each configured to hold four transceiver sleeves.

13. The sleeve retainer assembly of claim 12, wherein, The first retainer body is configured to hold a first set of sleeves at a spacing of approximately 3.9 mm, and the second retainer body is configured to hold a second set of sleeves at a spacing of approximately 3.9 mm.

14. The sleeve retainer assembly of claim 13, wherein, When the retainer-to-retainer interface of the first retainer body is operably engaged with the retainer-to-retainer interface of the second retainer body to operably align the first retainer body and the second retainer body, the first set of sleeves is spaced apart from the second set of sleeves at a distance of approximately 3.1 mm.

15. The sleeve retainer assembly according to claim 1, wherein, Each retainer-to-retainer interface includes at least one mortise portion and at least one tenon portion, wherein the at least one mortise portion of the retainer-to-retainer interface of the first retainer body is configured to receive the at least one tenon portion of the retainer-to-retainer interface of the second retainer body, and the at least one mortise portion of the retainer-to-retainer interface of the second retainer body is configured to receive the at least one tenon portion of the retainer-to-retainer interface of the first retainer body.

16. The sleeve retainer assembly of claim 1, wherein, Each of the first retainer body and the second retainer body includes a retainer body block and a surface plate fixed to the retainer body block.

17. The sleeve retainer assembly of claim 16, wherein, Each retainer body block defines a socket for receiving the flange portion of each transceiver sleeve from a corresponding set of transceiver sleeves in the first set of transceiver sleeves and the second set of transceiver sleeves.

18. The sleeve retainer assembly of claim 17, wherein, Each surface plate defines a sleeve opening, and the pin portion of each transceiver sleeve extends from a corresponding one of the sockets through the sleeve opening to protrude from a corresponding one of the first retainer body and the second retainer body.

19. The sleeve retainer assembly of claim 18, further comprising a resiliently compressible ring arranged around a pin portion of each transceiver sleeve between the surface plate and the flange portion of the sleeve.

20. The sleeve retainer assembly of claim 1, wherein, Each retainer body is configured to engage fasteners for securing the sleeve retainer assembly to the optical connector interface.

21. A transceiver including an optical interface, the optical interface including the sleeve retainer assembly of claim 1.

22. The transceiver of claim 21, further comprising a support frame to which the sleeve retainer assembly is secured.

23. The transceiver of claim 22, further comprising an adapter housing, wherein a group of sleeve retainer assemblies operatively positions at least four transceiver sleeves within the adapter housing.

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