Reversible polarity fiber optic connectors

Abstract

A reversible polarity fiber optic connector includes a housing including a polarization key for coupling the housing to a fiber optic receptacle in only one orientation. A ferrule assembly is received in the housing in a first position corresponding to a first polarity of the fiber optic connector and in a second position corresponding to a second polarity of the fiber optic connector. The ferrule assembly forms an optical connection with the fiber optic receptacle. A boot assembly is releasably coupled to the housing to enable insertion and removal of the ferrule assembly from the housing. The boot assembly includes a rotor rotatable between a locked position and a released position. The rotor includes a blocking portion to prevent separation of the boot assembly from the housing in the locked position and to allow separation of the boot assembly from the housing in the released position.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to a fiber optic connector, and more particularly, to a reversible polarity fiber optic connector. Background Art

[0002] Optical connectors are used in optical communication networks to interconnect optical cables to optical devices or other optical cables. An optical connection typically involves two optical connectors connected together. In fiber optic connectors with multiple fiber ferrules, it is important to control the orientation of the optical connector to ensure a correct connection when the optical connector is inserted into an optical receptacle. Therefore, optical connectors are designed to connect to an optical receptacle in only one orientation. This selected orientation is referred to as establishing the polarity of the connector. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In one aspect, a reversible polarity fiber optic connector includes a housing having a front end and a rear end separated along a connection axis. The housing includes a polarization key configured to engage a fiber optic receptacle to allow the housing to be coupled in only one orientation relative to the fiber optic receptacle. A ferrule assembly includes a front body, a first ferrule, and a second ferrule. The first and second ferrules are supported by the front body. The ferrule assembly is configured to be docked and received in the housing in a first position corresponding to a first polarity of the fiber optic connector and in a second position corresponding to a second polarity of the fiber optic connector. The first and second ferrules protrude from the front end of the housing in both the first and second positions. The ferrule assembly is configured to form an optical connection with the fiber optic receptacle. A boot assembly is releasably connected to the housing to enable insertion of the ferrule assembly into the housing along the connection axis and removal of the ferrule assembly from the housing along the connection axis when the boot assembly is separated from the housing. The boot assembly includes a rotor operably connected to the housing for rotation relative to the housing about the connection axis between a locked position and a released position. The rotor includes a blocking portion. The blocking portion is configured to prevent separation of the boot assembly from the housing in the locked position and to allow separation of the boot assembly from the housing in the released position.

[0004] In another aspect, a reversible polarity fiber optic connector includes a housing having a front end and a rear end separated along a connection axis. The housing includes a polarity key configured to engage a fiber optic receptacle to allow the fiber optic connector to be coupled in only one orientation relative to the fiber optic receptacle. A ferrule assembly is received in the housing and configured to form an optical connection with the fiber optic receptacle. The boot assembly is releasably coupled to the housing to enable the ferrule assembly to be inserted into the housing along the connection axis and to enable the ferrule assembly to be removed from the housing along the connection axis when the boot assembly is separated from the housing. The boot assembly includes a hook configured to engage the housing to secure the boot assembly to the housing. The boot assembly is rotatable relative to the housing between a locked position in which the hook engages the housing to secure the boot assembly to the housing and a released position in which the hook disengages the housing to allow the boot assembly and the ferrule assembly to be separated from the housing.

[0005] Other objects and features of the disclosure will be in part apparent and in part pointed out hereinafter. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] Figure 1 is a front exploded perspective view of an optical fiber connector according to one embodiment of the present invention;

[0007] Figure 2 is a rear perspective view of an assembled fiber optic connector with a portion of the housing removed to reveal the internal structure;

[0008] Figure 3 is a rear perspective view of the fiber optic connector with the rotor in a released position;

[0009] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a locking device of a fiber optic connector;

[0010] Figure 5 is a side view of the locking mechanism;

[0011] Figure 6 is a rear view of the locking mechanism;

[0012] Figure 7 It is a three-dimensional diagram of the strain relief boot of the optical fiber connector;

[0013] Figure 8 is a front view of the sheath;

[0014] Figure 9 is a perspective view of a guard assembly including a guard and a locking device, wherein a portion of the guard assembly is cut away to reveal internal details, and the guard assembly is in a locked position;

[0015] Figure 10 is a cutaway rear perspective view of the guard assembly mounted on the locking device, with the guard assembly in the locked position;

[0016] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of a guard assembly mounted on a locking device, wherein the guard assembly is in a locked position;

[0017] Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view of a guard assembly mounted on a locking device, wherein the guard assembly is in a released position;

[0018] Figure 13 is a perspective view of an optical fiber connector according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0019] Figure 14 yes Figure 13 An exploded perspective view of a sheath assembly of an optical fiber connector;

[0020] Figure 15 yes Figure 13 A perspective view of a boot assembly of a fiber optic connector, wherein the rotor of the boot assembly is in a locked position;

[0021] Figure 16 yes Figure 13 A perspective view of a sheath assembly of a fiber optic connector, wherein the rotor of the sheath assembly is in a released position;

[0022] Figure 17A yes Figure 13 A cross-sectional view of a fiber optic connector, wherein the rotor is in a locked position;

[0023] Figure 17B yes Figure 13 A cross-sectional view of the optical fiber connector, wherein the rotor is in a released position;

[0024] Figure 17C yes Figure 13 a cross-sectional view of a fiber optic connector with the jacket assembly removed from the housing of the fiber optic connector;

[0025] Figure 18A -D shows the changes Figure 13 Steps for checking the polarity of the fiber optic connector;

[0026] Figure 19 is an exploded perspective view of an optical fiber connector according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 20 yes Figure 19 A perspective view of a fiber optic connector, wherein the boot assembly is in a locked position;

[0028] Figure 21 yes Figure 19 A perspective view of a fiber optic connector, wherein the jacket assembly is in a released position;

[0029] Figure 22 yes Figure 19 A rear perspective view of a housing of a fiber optic connector;

[0030] Figure 23 yes Figure 19 a rear view of a housing of a fiber optic connector;

[0031] Figure 24 yes Figure 19 A perspective view of a sheath assembly of an optical fiber connector;

[0032] Figure 25 yes Figure 19 A front view of a sheath assembly of an optical fiber connector;

[0033] Figure 26 is connected to the housing to assemble Figure 19 A perspective view of a sheath assembly of an optical fiber connector;

[0034] Figure 27 yes Figure 19 a rear perspective view of a fiber optic connector with the boot assembly in a released position and shown in schematic cross-section to illustrate internal details;

[0035] Figure 28 yes Figure 19 A partial perspective view of a fiber optic connector, wherein a portion of the housing is cut away to reveal internal details;

[0036] Figure 29 yes Figure 19 A perspective view of a fiber optic connector with the boot assembly in a locked position and portions of the housing and boot assembly cut away to reveal internal details;

[0037] Figure 30A -C shows the sheath assembly attached to the housing for assembly Figure 19 Steps for preparing the optical fiber connector;

[0038] Figure 31 is an exploded perspective view of an optical fiber connector according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 32 yes Figure 31 A perspective view of a fiber optic connector;

[0040] Figure 33 yes Figure 31 An exploded perspective view of a sheath assembly of an optical fiber connector;

[0041] Figure 34 yes Figure 31 A perspective view of a sheath assembly of an optical fiber connector; and

[0042] Figure 35 yes Figure 31 A perspective view of the boot assembly of a fiber optic connector showing the deflection of the strain relief boot.

[0043] Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the drawings. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0044] refer to Figure 1-3 , a fiber optic connector according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is generally indicated by reference numeral 10. The fiber optic connector is configured to form a fiber optic connection with a fiber optic receptacle (not shown). The fiber optic receptacle may be any suitable receptacle for connecting with the fiber optic connector 10, such as another fiber optic connector, a fiber optic adapter, etc. When coupled to the fiber optic receptacle, the fiber optic connector 10 and the fiber optic receptacle form an optical connection, enabling communication between different fiber optic components (e.g., cables, devices, etc.) in an optical communication network. The fiber optic connector 10 is attached to an optical cable C (whose outer sheath is Figure 1-3 ), but other arrangements are also within the scope of the present disclosure. In the illustrated embodiment, the fiber optic connector 10 is a male fiber optic connector that is configured to mate with (e.g., insert into) a female fiber optic receptacle. Other configurations of the fiber optic connector 10 are within the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the fiber optic connector 10 can be a female fiber optic connector that is configured to mate with (e.g., receive) a male fiber optic receptacle. In another example, the connector can make an electrical connection or other type of connection instead of or in addition to an optical connection. The fiber optic connector 10 is a reversible polarity fiber optic connector that is capable of changing the polarity of the fiber optic connector.

[0045] The fiber optic connector 10 includes a housing 12 and a ferrule assembly 14. The housing 12 has a longitudinal axis CA ( Figure 1 ) separate front or distal end 16 and rear or proximal end 18. The housing 12 defines an interior size and shape to receive and accommodate the ferrule assembly 14 ( Figure 2 The interior extends between a front end 16 and a rear end 18 (e.g., the interior is open-ended). The housing 12 is configured to couple to (e.g., mate with) a fiber optic receptacle. The housing 12 includes a polarization key 20 configured to engage the fiber optic receptacle to allow the housing to be coupled in only one orientation relative to the fiber optic receptacle. Thus, the fiber optic connector 10 can only be coupled to the fiber optic receptacle in one orientation.

[0046] The ferrule assembly 14 is configured to form an optical connection with a fiber optic receptacle. The ferrule assembly 14 includes a front body 22, a first ferrule 24 and a second ferrule 26. The first ferrule 24 and the second ferrule 26 are supported by the front body 22. One or more optical fibers (not shown) of the optical cable C are attached to the ferrule 24 and the ferrule 26. The first ferrule 24 and the second ferrule 26 are configured to engage (e.g., dock) the fiber optic receptacle, thereby forming an optical connection therebetween. When the ferrule assembly 14 is disposed inside the housing, the first ferrule 24 and the second ferrule 26 protrude or extend from the first end 16 of the housing 12. The ferrule assembly 14 is releasably coupled to (e.g., housed in) the housing 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the housing 12 and the ferrule assembly 14 are not mechanically connected to each other. When the rear end is not closed as described below, the ferrule assembly 14 is able to slide into and out of the interior of the housing 12 through the rear end 18. The ferrule assembly 14 is configured to be in a first position ( Figure 1 and 2) and a second position (not shown) corresponding to the second polarity of the fiber optic connector are mated and received in the housing 12. In the first position, corresponding to the first polarity of the fiber optic connector 10, the first ferrule 24 is positioned above the second ferrule 26 (e.g., the first ferrule is adjacent to the first side of the housing 12 and the second ferrule is adjacent to the second side of the housing 12). In the second position, corresponding to the second polarity of the fiber optic connector 10, the second ferrule 26 is positioned above the first ferrule 24 (e.g., the second ferrule is adjacent to the first side of the housing 12 and the first ferrule is adjacent to the second side of the housing 12). In other words, changing the polarity of the fiber optic connector 10 changes the orientation of the first ferrule 24 and the second ferrule 26 relative to the housing 12 and, therefore, the fiber optic receptacle (because the polarity key 20 only allows for coupling in one orientation). The fiber optic connector 10 allows the polarity of the ferrule assembly 14 to be changed relative to the housing 12. Specifically, the ferrule assembly 14 can be removed from the housing 12, flipped (e.g., rotated approximately 180 degrees about the connection axis CA), and inserted back into the housing to change the polarity of the ferrule assembly. The first ferrule 24 and the second ferrule 26 both protrude from the front end 16 of the housing 12 in the first and second positions.

[0047] As an example, the first ferrule 24 can receive optical signals and the second ferrule 26 can transmit optical signals. Thus, when the fiber optic connector 10 is coupled to a fiber optic receptacle, the first ferrule 24 needs to be positioned to receive optical signals from the fiber optic receptacle, and the second ferrule 26 needs to be positioned to transmit optical signals to the fiber optic receptacle. The ability to place the ferrule assembly 14 in either the first or second position ensures that the first ferrule 24 and the second ferrule 26 can be properly positioned relative to the fiber optic receptacle to form an optical connection (e.g., matching the polarity of the fiber optic receptacle). If the polarity of the ferrule assembly 14 relative to the housing 12 does not match the polarity of the fiber optic receptacle, an optical connection will not be formed when the fiber optic connector 10 is coupled to the fiber optic receptacle.

[0048] The fiber optic connector 10 includes a boot assembly 30. Generally, the boot assembly 30 secures the ferrule assembly 14 within the interior of the housing 12. To secure the ferrule assembly 14 to the housing 12, the boot assembly 30 typically closes the rear end 18 of the housing when the boot assembly is attached to the housing. Thus, when the boot assembly is connected to the housing, the boot assembly 30 prevents the ferrule assembly 14 from being removed from the housing 12. The boot assembly 30 is releasably connected to the housing 12 to enable the ferrule assembly to be inserted into the housing along the connection axis CA (through the rear end 18) and removed from the housing along the connection axis CA when the boot assembly is separated from the housing (through the rear end). By removing or detaching the boot assembly 30 from the housing 12, the ferrule assembly 14 can be removed from the housing (through the rear end 18), flipped over, and then reinserted into the housing (through the rear end) to change the polarity of the fiber optic connector 10. The boot assembly 30 can then be reattached to the housing 12 (by inserting the boot assembly into the rear end 18) to re-secure the ferrule assembly 14 within the housing. In this embodiment, the sheath assembly 30 includes the locking device 28 (eg, a rear post) and a strain relief sheath 32 .

[0049] The locking device 28 is releasably connected to the housing 12 and securely attached to the strain relief boot 32. Specifically, the locking device 28 is releasably coupled to the housing 12. The locking device 28 is inserted into the rear end 18 of the housing 12 to attach the locking device to the housing. When the locking device 28 is attached to the housing 12, the locking device secures the ferrule assembly 14 within the interior of the housing. The locking device 28 generally closes the rear end 18 of the housing 12, thereby securing the ferrule assembly 14 within the housing.

[0050] refer to Figure 4-6 , the locking device 28 includes a deflectable latch 34 (broadly, the deflectable latch is associated with the guard assembly). The deflectable latch 34 is engageable with the housing 12 to prevent the guard assembly 30 from separating from the housing, and is deflectable out of engagement with the housing to allow the guard assembly to separate from the housing. In the illustrated embodiment, the deflectable latch 34 is engageable with the housing near the rear end 18 of the housing. The latch 34 includes a tab or catch 36 positioned to engage the housing 12. Specifically, the tab 36 engages the edge of a groove or opening in the housing 12 to secure the locking device 28 (broadly, the guard assembly 30) to the housing (see Figure 2 ). The latch 34 also includes a finger-like tab 38 positioned to be engaged by a user for deflecting the deflectable latch and moving the tab 36 out of position to engage the housing 12. When the tab 36 is out of position to engage the housing 12, the locking device 28 and the entire guard assembly 30 can be separated or removed from the housing 12. Thus, the latch 34 can be engaged from the tab 36 with the housing 12 to connect the locking device 28 (and more broadly, the guard assembly 30) to the housing in the latched position ( Figure 2) to an unlocked position (not shown) in which the latch is disengaged from the housing to allow the locking device to be separated from the housing. The latch 34 is resiliently deflectable, thereby allowing the latch to return from the unlocked position to the latched position. In the illustrated embodiment, the locking device 28 includes two latches 34 (broadly speaking, at least one latch). The two latches 34 are generally identical and are located on opposite (top and bottom) sides of the locking device 28.

[0051] To separate the guard assembly 30 from the housing 12, the user depresses the latch 34 to move the tab 36 inward and out of the opening in the housing (e.g., to the unlocked position). After depressing the latch 34, the guard assembly 30 moves rearward, away from the housing 12. To connect the guard assembly 30 to the housing 12, the locking device 28 is inserted into the rear end 18 of the housing. As the locking device 28 moves forward, toward the front end 16, the housing 12 engages the inclined surface of the tab 36 and depresses the latch 34. Once the tab 36 is aligned with the opening in the housing 12, the latch 34 returns to its original or rest position (e.g., the latched position), thereby securing the locking device 28, and therefore the guard assembly 30, to the housing.

[0052] In this embodiment, the locking device 28 includes a stator 40 for mounting the strain relief boot 32 on the locking device. In the illustrated embodiment, the stator 40 includes two arcuate, partially circumferential flanges 41. The stator 40 includes at least one stator tab or clip 42 for securing the strain relief boot 32 to the stator. In the illustrated embodiment, the stator 40 includes two clips 42, one on each flange 41. The locking device 28 includes a cable opening 44 sized and shaped to allow the cable C to pass therethrough. In the illustrated embodiment, the cable opening 44 is generally aligned with the rotational axis of the stator 40 (e.g., the central axis CA).

[0053] refer to Figure 7-9, the strain relief boot 32 is configured to support a portion of the cable C to reduce the force exerted by the cable on the ferrule assembly 14. The strain relief boot 32 is configured to receive the cable C therethrough. The strain relief boot 32 defines a cable lumen or channel 46 that is sized and shaped to allow the cable C to pass therethrough. Preferably, the strain relief boot 32 is flexible (e.g., elastically bendable or deformable) to allow the cable C to bend and deviate from alignment with the central axis CA as the cable extends from the housing 12. In this embodiment, the strain relief boot 32 is coupled to the locking device 28. The strain relief boot 32 includes a rotor 48, but the entire boot can be considered a rotor. The rotor 48 is adjacent to the front end of the strain relief boot 32. The rotor 48 of the strain relief boot 32 is operably connected to the housing 12 to rotate about the connection axis CA relative to the housing and the locking device 28. Specifically, the rotor 48 is rotatably mounted to the stator 40 of the locking device 28. The rotor 48 includes a stator recess 50 that receives the flange 41 of the stator 40. The recess 50 is arcuate and oversized compared to the flange 41 to allow the rotor 48 to rotate about the stator 40 (e.g., about the central axis CA). The rotor 48 includes holes or slots 52, each sized and shaped to receive one of the clips 42 of the stator 40. The clips 42 engage the edge of the rotor 48 that defines each slot 52 to secure the strain relief boot 32 to the locking device 28. As the rotor 48 rotates about the stator 40, the clips 52 move within the slots 52, but the locking device 28 and the strain relief boot 32 remain securely connected to each other. The strain relief boot 32 may also include a pull tab 54 for a user to grasp to remove the strain relief boot (e.g., to remove the boot assembly 30 from the housing 12). In the illustrated embodiment, the pull tab 54 is located adjacent to (e.g., at) the rear end of the strain relief boot 32.

[0054] refer to Figure 9-12 , the strain relief boot 32 (e.g., rotor 48) includes a blocking portion 56. The blocking portion 56 is configured to block the boot assembly 30 (e.g., locking device 28) from being separated from the housing 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the blocking portion 56 includes a protrusion. The protrusion generally extends radially outward. The strain relief boot 32 is in the locked position ( Figure 11 ) and release position ( Figure 12 ) is movable between the latch 34 and the housing 12. The blocking portion 56 is configured to block the shield assembly 30 (e.g., the locking device 28) from separating from the housing in the locked position. Specifically, in the locked position, the blocking portion 56 is configured or arranged to prevent the latch 34 from moving to the unlocked position - preventing the locking device 28 from separating from the housing 12. In the locked position ( Figure 9-11), a blocking portion 56 of the strain relief boot 32 (e.g., rotor 48) is arranged relative to the deflectable latch 34 such that the blocking portion is configured to engage the deflectable latch to prevent the deflectable latch from deflecting. In the locked position, the blocking portion 56 is aligned with or below the latch 34 to prevent the latch from moving inward or toward the unlocked position (e.g., being depressed). The blocking portion 56 is positioned so that when depressed before the latch reaches the unlocked position, the latch 34 engages and is stopped by the blocking portion. The blocking portion 56 is configured to allow the boot assembly 30 (e.g., locking device 28) to separate from the housing 12 in the released position ( Figure 12 ). Specifically, in the release position, the blocking portion is configured or arranged to allow the latch 34 to move to the unlocked position - enabling the locking device 28 and the entire sheath assembly 30 to be separated from the housing 12. In the release position, the blocking portion 56 of the strain relief sheath 32 is arranged relative to the deflectable latch 34 so that the blocking portion is out of the way of the deflectable latch to allow the deflectable latch to deflect. In the release position, the blocking portion 56 is not aligned with the latch 34 (e.g., radially aligned), thereby allowing the latch to deflect inwardly to the unlocked position (e.g., the latch can be depressed). The blocking portion 56 is positioned so that the latch 34 is not engaged and is not stopped by the blocking portion when the latch is depressed. In the illustrated embodiment, the strain relief sheath 32 includes two blocking portions 56, one for each latch 34 of the locking device 28.

[0055] In the illustrated embodiment, the strain relief boot 32 (eg, the rotor 48) is in the locked position ( Figure 11 ) and release position ( Figure 12 ). Preferably, the strain relief boot 32 is configured to rotate approximately 90 degrees or less between the locked position and the released position. This short rotation allows the boot assembly 30 to be more quickly separated and connected to the housing 12. Even more preferably, the rotation is limited to approximately 45 degrees or less, or even more preferably, approximately 15 degrees, between the locked position and the released position. In the illustrated embodiment, the stator 40 is configured to limit rotation of the strain relief boot 32 (e.g., the rotor 48) relative to the locking device 28 (broadly, the housing 12). The stator 40 (e.g., the flange 41) can engage the side of the strain relief boot 32 that defines the stator groove 50 to position the strain relief boot in the locked and released positions (e.g., to limit excessive rotation of the rotor 48). Friction between the rotor 48 and the stator 40 can prevent the rotor from freely rotating about the stator (e.g., the center axis CA).

[0056] In operation, when in the locked position, the strain relief boot 32 (e.g., rotor 48) inhibits the intentional withdrawal or separation of the boot assembly 30 (e.g., locking device 28). To change the polarity of the fiber optic connector 10, the strain relief boot 32 is moved (e.g., rotated) to the released position. Thereafter, the latch 34 is depressed and the boot assembly 30 moves rearward relative to the housing 12. As the boot assembly 30 moves rearward, the locking device 28 withdraws from the rear end 18 of the housing 12. After the boot assembly 30 is removed, the ferrule assembly 14 can subsequently be removed. The ferrule assembly 14 moves rearward relative to the housing 12 and out of the housing. The ferrule assembly 12 is then flipped (180° relative to the housing 12) and reinserted into the housing. By flipping the ferrule assembly 14, the polarity of the fiber optic connector 10 is changed. The ferrule assembly 12 moves forward, entering the interior of the housing 12 through the rear end 18. After the ferrule assembly 12 is positioned within the housing 12, the boot assembly 30 is reattached to the housing. The guard assembly 30 (e.g., locking device 28) moves forward and is inserted into the rear end 18 of the housing 12. As the guard assembly 30 moves forward, the latch 34 (e.g., tab 36) is engaged and deflected by the housing 12. When the tab 36 aligns with the opening in the housing 12, the latch 34 returns or springs back to the locked position, thereby securing the guard assembly 12 and the ferrule assembly 14 to the housing 12. The strain relief guard 32 is then rotated back to the locked position. As described above, when the rotor 48 is in the locked position, the blocking portion 56 prevents any unintentional withdrawal or movement of the latch 34, thereby locking the guard assembly 30 to the housing 12.

[0057] In one embodiment, the boot assembly 30 is operably connected to the ferrule assembly 14. For example, the cable lumen 44 of the strain relief boot 32 is sized and shaped to receive the cable C. The boot assembly 30 is then operably coupled to the ferrule assembly 14 via the strain relief boot 32 and the cable C and is secured to the rear post of the ferrule assembly 14 in a suitable manner. In this embodiment, the connection between the ferrule assembly 14 and the boot assembly 30 results in a joint movement of these components. For example, the ferrule assembly 14 and the boot assembly 30 will move together along the connection axis CA to insert the ferrule assembly into the housing 12 and remove the ferrule assembly from the housing along the connection axis. Similarly, when the ferrule assembly 14 is flipped to change polarity, the boot assembly 30 will also be flipped (e.g., rotated 180 degrees about the connection axis CA). The boot assembly 30 is generally symmetrical and can be attached to the housing if flipped. In other words, the boot assembly 30 (e.g., the locking device 28) and the ferrule assembly 14 can both be connected to the housing 12 in a first orientation and a second orientation, the second orientation being rotated approximately 180 degrees about the central axis CA relative to the first orientation. The connection or coupling of the boot assembly 30 and the ferrule assembly 14 is generally the same in the first and second orientations.

[0058] refer to Figure 13-18D Another embodiment of a fiber optic connector according to the present disclosure is generally designated by the reference numeral 110. Fiber optic connector 110 is generally similar to fiber optic connector 10, and therefore, to facilitate understanding, reference numerals above "100" will be used when similar, analogous, or identical components are used. Therefore, unless otherwise expressly stated or indicated, the above description of fiber optic connector 10 also applies to fiber optic connector 110. Fiber optic connector 110 includes a housing 112 having a polarity key 120.

[0059] The fiber optic connector 110 of this embodiment is a reversible polarity fiber optic connector, similar to the fiber optic connector 10. In this embodiment, the fiber optic connector 110 has a removable (e.g., releasable) boot assembly 130 having a different configuration than the boot assembly 30 described above. The boot assembly 130 includes a strain relief boot 132 and a rotor 148. The strain relief boot 132 is connected to the housing 112. Specifically, the strain relief boot 132 is releasably coupled to the housing 112. The strain relief boot 132 is inserted into the rear end 118 of the housing 112 to attach the strain relief boot (broadly speaking, the boot assembly 130) to the housing. When the strain relief boot 132 is attached to the housing 112, the strain relief boot secures the ferrule assembly 114 within the interior of the housing. The strain relief boot 132 generally closes the rear end 118 of the housing 112, thereby securing the ferrule assembly 114 in the housing.

[0060] refer to Figure 14-16 , the strain relief boot 132 includes a deflectable latch 134 (broadly, the deflectable latch is associated with the boot assembly 130). The deflectable latch 134 can engage with the housing 112 to prevent the boot assembly 130 (e.g., the strain relief boot 132) from separating from the housing, and can be deflected out of engagement with the housing to allow the boot assembly to separate from the housing. The latch 134 includes a tab or catch 136 positioned to engage the housing 112. The catch 136 includes opposing front and rear bevels to facilitate insertion and removal of the strain relief boot 132 from the housing 112 (e.g., to facilitate deflection of the latch 134). The latch 134 can engage with the housing 112 to secure the boot assembly 130 to the housing in a latched position ( Figure 17A ) and an unlocked position where the latch is disengaged from the housing to allow the strain relief boot to be separated from the housing ( Figure 17C ) movement. The latch 134 is resiliently deflectable, thereby allowing the latch to return from the unlocked position to the latched position. In the illustrated embodiment, the strain relief boot 132 includes two latches 134 (broadly speaking, at least one latch). The two latches 134 are generally identical in structure and operation.

[0061] In this embodiment, the rotor 148 is separate from the strain relief boot 132 and is movable (eg, rotated) relative to the strain relief boot 132. Figure 14 , the strain relief boot 132 defines a rotor receiving space or cavity 149 that is sized and shaped to receive the rotor 148. The cavity 149 is adjacent to the latch 134. Therefore, when the latch 134 is deflected, the latch deflects or moves into the cavity 149. It is disposed in the cavity 149. The cavity 149 is in communication with a cable lumen. The cable C extends through the cavity 149. The rotor 148 defines a cable lumen or channel 151 through which the cable C extends. The cable lumen 151 is generally aligned with the axis of rotation of the rotor 148 (e.g., the center axis CA). The rotor can rotate about the cable C (e.g., the center axis CA). Therefore, the cable C serves as a stator for the rotor 148 in this embodiment. The cavity 149 has opposing open sides to allow a user to engage the rotor 148 to move (e.g., rotate) the rotor.

[0062] The rotor 148 includes a blocking portion 156. In this embodiment, the blocking portion 156 includes an arcuate portion or surface. The rotor 148 includes an unlocking portion or space creating portion 157. The unlocking portion 157 is configured to allow the latch 134 to deflect or move into the unlocked position (e.g., move into the cavity 149 a sufficient amount to allow the catch 136 to clear the opening in the housing 112). In this embodiment, the unlocking portion 157 includes an opening 159 into which the latch 134 can move (e.g., deflect). In the illustrated embodiment, the opening 159 is defined by and extends inwardly from a generally flat portion or surface 161 of the unlocking portion 157. The flat portion 161 (e.g., the center thereof) is generally disposed more radially inwardly than the arcuate portion (e.g., the center thereof) of the blocking portion 156 to create space for the latch 134 to deflect. The rotor 148 is in the locked position ( Figure 15 and 17A ) and release position ( Figure 16 and Figure 17B -C). The blocking portion 156 is configured to block the boot assembly 130 (e.g., the strain relief boot 132) from separating from the housing 112 in the locked position. Specifically, in the locked position, the blocking portion 156 is configured or arranged to prevent the latch 134 from moving to the unlocked position - preventing the strain relief boot 132 from separating from the housing 112. In the locked position ( Figure 15 and 17A), the blocking portion 156 of the rotor 148 is arranged relative to the deflectable latch 134 so that the blocking portion is configured to engage the deflectable latch to prevent the deflectable latch from deflecting. In the locked position, the blocking portion 156 is aligned with or located below (e.g., radially below) the latch 134 to prevent the latch from moving inward or toward the unlocked position. The blocking portion 156 is positioned so that when the latch is depressed before the latch reaches the unlocked position, the latch 134 engages and is stopped by the blocking portion. In particular, the arcuate portion of the blocking portion 156 is aligned with the deflectable latch 134 in the locked position.

[0063] The blocking portion 156 is configured to allow the sheath assembly 130 to separate from the housing 112 in the released position ( Figure 16 and Figure 17B -C). Specifically, in the release position, the blocking portion is configured or arranged to allow the latch 134 to move to the unlocked position, allowing the strain relief boot 132 to be separated from the housing 112. In the release position, the rotor 148 of the blocking portion 156 is arranged relative to the deflectable latch 134 so that the blocking portion is out of the way of the deflectable latch to allow the deflectable latch to deflect. In the release position, the blocking portion 156 is not aligned or aligned with the latch 134, thereby allowing the latch to deflect inwardly to the unlocked position (e.g., the latch can be depressed). The blocking portion 156 is positioned so that the latch 134 does not engage and is not stopped by the blocking portion when the latch is depressed. In other words, the unlocking portion 157 is configured to allow the cover assembly 130 (e.g., the strain relief boot 132) to be separated from the housing 112 in the release position. Specifically, in the release position, the unlocking portion 157 is configured or arranged to allow the latch 134 to move to the unlocked position, allowing the cover assembly 130 to be separated from the housing 112. In the release position, the unlocking portion 157 of the rotor 148 is arranged relative to the deflectable latch 134 so that the unlocking portion is aligned with the deflectable latch to allow the deflectable latch to be deflected into the cavity 149. In the release position, the unlocking portion 157 is aligned or aligned with the latch 134, thereby enabling the latch to be deflected inwardly to the unlocked position. The unlocking portion 157 is positioned so that the latch 134 can move into the opening 159 when the latch is depressed.

[0064] In the illustrated embodiment, rotor 148 includes two blocking portions 156, one for each latch 134 of strain relief boot 132. Similarly, rotor 148 includes two unlocking portions 157, one for each latch 134 of strain relief boot. The two latches 134 of strain relief boot 132 are positioned on substantially opposite sides of the strain relief boot. In the illustrated embodiment, the two latches 134 define opposite sides (e.g., closed sides) of cavity 149. Thus, the two blocking portions 156 are positioned on opposite sides of rotor 148, and the two unlocking portions 157 are positioned on opposite sides of the rotor. Consequently, rotor 148 has a non-circular cross-section. The arcuate portions of blocking portions 156 are positioned between and interconnected with the flat portions 161 of unlocking portions 157. Blocking portions 156 include ribs to enhance the ability to grip rotor 148 for rotation. Rotor 148 may include at least one pawl 163. In the illustrated embodiment, rotor 148 includes two pawls 163 located on opposite sides of the rotor, each adjacent to one of blocking portions 156. The pawl 163 extends into a groove or slot 165 in the strain relief boot 132 to secure and hold the rotor 148 in the locked position. The pawl 163 overlies a flat surface on the opposite side of the strain relief boot 132 to secure and hold the rotor in the released position ( Figure 16 ). The pawl 163 and / or the strain relief boot 132 can be elastically deformed to allow the pawl to move relative to the strain relief boot 132 when the rotor 148 is rotated under a sufficient amount of manual force applied by the user. Thus, the pawl 163 prevents the rotor 148 from accidentally moving from the locked position and the released position.

[0065] refer to Figure 17A -C. To separate the strain relief boot 132 (and more broadly, the boot assembly 130) from the housing 112, the user moves the rotor 148 to the release position. The user can then pull the strain relief boot 132 in a rearward direction relative to the housing 112. As the strain relief boot 132 moves rearward, the catch 136 of each latch 134 engages the housing 112, which, with the aid of the inclined side surfaces of the latch, deflects the latch inwardly to the unlocked position ( Figure 17C). With the latch 134 in the unlocked position, the user can continue to move the boot assembly 130 rearward, away from the housing 112. The ferrule assembly 114 is also removed from the housing 112 to change the polarity of the fiber optic connector 110. To connect the boot assembly 130 (e.g., the strain relief boot 132) to the housing 112, the strain relief boot is inserted into the rear end 118 of the housing. As the strain relief boot 132 moves forward, toward the front end 116, the housing 112 engages the catch 136 and depresses the latch 134. Deflection of the latch 134 is facilitated by the inclined front surface of the latch. Once the catch 136 is aligned with the opening in the housing 112, the latch 134 returns to its original or rest position (e.g., the locked position), thereby securing the boot assembly 130 to the housing. The user then rotates the rotor 148 to the locked position to lock the boot assembly 130 to the housing 112. Preferably, the rotor 148 rotates approximately 90 degrees between the locked position and the released position.

[0066] refer to Figures 18A-18D , generally showing the steps for changing the polarity of the fiber optic connector 110. Figure 18A In the embodiment, the optical fiber connector 110 is configured in a first configuration corresponding to a first polarity (e.g., the ferrule assembly 114 is in a first position). In this configuration, the first ferrule 124 is disposed above the second ferrule 126. To change the polarity of the optical fiber connector 110 to correspond to Figure 18D In the second configuration of the second polarity shown (eg, with the ferrule assembly 114 in the second position), the user removes the ferrule assembly 114 and the boot assembly 130 from the housing, as shown. Figure 18B In this example, the ferrule assembly 114 and the boot assembly 130 move in conjunction (e.g., the boot assembly and the ferrule assembly are operably coupled together), although in other embodiments they may move independently of one another. After the ferrule assembly 114 and the boot assembly 130 are removed from the interior of the housing 112, the ferrule assembly and the boot assembly are flipped over, as shown. Figure 18C The ferrule assembly 114 and the jacket assembly 130 are then inserted back into the housing 112, placing the fiber optic connector in the second configuration ( Figure 18D ). In the second configuration, the second ferrule 126 is disposed above the first ferrule 124. These steps for changing the polarity of the fiber optic connector 110 are generally the same for the other fiber optic connectors described herein.

[0067] refer to Figure 19-30CAnother embodiment of a fiber optic connector according to the present disclosure is generally designated by reference numeral 210. Fiber optic connector 210 is generally similar to fiber optic connector 10, and therefore, to facilitate understanding, reference numerals above "200" will be used when similar, analogous, or identical components are used. Therefore, unless otherwise expressly stated or indicated, the above description of fiber optic connector 10 also applies to fiber optic connector 210.

[0068] Fiber optic connector 210 of this embodiment is a reversible polarity fiber optic connector, similar to fiber optic connector 10. In this embodiment, fiber optic connector 210 has a housing 212 having a different configuration than housing 12 described above, and a removable (e.g., releasable) boot assembly 230 having a different configuration than boot assembly 30 described above. Housing 212 includes a polarity key 220.

[0069] refer to Figure 22 and 23 In this embodiment, the housing 212 includes a sheath assembly interface 213 configured to connect the sheath assembly 230 to the housing. The interface 213 is adjacent to the rear end 218 of the housing 212. The interface 213 includes a rear wall 215. As described in more detail below, the sheath assembly 230 engages the rear wall 215 (e.g., its front surface) to secure the sheath assembly to the housing 212. The interface 213 also includes a groove or opening 217. The groove 217 is at least partially defined by the rear wall 215 (e.g., its front surface). Figure 29 ). The groove 217 is in front of the rear wall 215. The interface 213 also includes a channel 219. The channel 219 is generally parallel to the central axis CA. One end (e.g., the front end) of the channel 219 opens into the groove 217, and the other opposite end (e.g., the rear end) of the channel opens into the rear portion of the housing 212. The channel 219 extends from the rear end through the rear wall 215 to the groove 217. The interface 213 also includes (e.g., defines) a snap-fit ​​groove 221. The snap-fit ​​groove 221 is adjacent to a side of the housing 212 that is opposite to the side adjacent to the channel 219. The interface 213 includes a rib 223 disposed between (e.g., separating) the channel 219 and the snap-fit ​​groove 221. The interface 213 is integrally formed with the housing 212. In the illustrated embodiment, the housing 212 includes two shield assembly interfaces 213. The two interfaces 213 are generally disposed on opposite (top and bottom) sides of the housing 212. The two interfaces 213 are generally identical in structure and operation.

[0070] refer to Figure 24 and 25The boot assembly 230 includes a strain relief boot 232. The strain relief boot 232 is connected to the housing 212. Specifically, the strain relief boot 232 is releasably coupled to the housing 212. The strain relief boot 232 is inserted into the rear end 218 of the housing 212 to attach the strain relief boot (and more broadly, the boot assembly 230) to the housing. When the strain relief boot 232 is attached to the housing 212, the strain relief boot secures the ferrule assembly 214 within the housing. The strain relief boot 232 generally encloses the rear end 218 of the housing 212, thereby securing the ferrule assembly 214 within the housing.

[0071] The sheath assembly 230 also includes a rotor 248. The rotor connects the strain relief sheath 232 to the housing 212. In this embodiment, the rotor 248 includes a connector 249 configured to connect to the housing 212. The connector 249 is configured to engage the interface 213 of the housing 212 to connect the sheath assembly 230 to the housing. The connector 249 of the rotor 248 includes a blocking portion 256. In this embodiment, the blocking portion 256 includes a protrusion. In particular, the protrusion of the blocking portion 256 includes a hook. The hook of the blocking portion 256 is configured to engage the housing 212 (e.g., the rear wall 215) to secure the sheath assembly 230 to the housing. The size and shape of the passage 219 of the housing 212 allow the blocking portion 256 to move therethrough. Therefore, the blocking portion 256 can be moved into the recess 217 of the housing 212 by moving forward from the rear end 218 of the housing into and through the passage 219. Likewise, the blocking portion 256 can be moved away from or out of the housing 212 (e.g., out of the groove 217) by moving rearwardly into and through the passage 219 and out of the rear end 218. As will become apparent, movement of the blocking portion 256 through the passage 219 allows the sheath assembly 230 to be connected and disconnected from the housing 212.

[0072] The rotor 248 (and more broadly, the strain relief boot 132 or boot assembly 130) is in the locked position ( Figure 20 、 29 , 30C) and release position ( Figure 21 、 27 , 28 and 30B). Specifically, the rotor 248 is rotatable between a locked position and a released position. The blocking portion 256 is configured to block the sheath assembly 230 from separating from the housing 112 in the locked position. In the locked position, the blocking portion 156 is configured or arranged to prevent the sheath assembly 230 from separating from the housing 212. Specifically, in the locked position ( Figure 20 、 29, 30C), the projection of the blocking portion 256 engages the housing 212 to secure the boot assembly 230 to the housing. The projection of the blocking portion 256 engages the rear wall 215 (e.g., the front surface thereof) to block separation of the boot assembly 230 from the housing 212 along the connection axis CA when the rotor is in the locked position. In particular, the blocking portion 256 is longitudinally aligned (e.g., axially aligned) with the rear wall 214 so that any back movement of the strain relief boot 232 causes the projection (e.g., hook) of the blocking portion to contact the rear wall. The blocking portion 256 of the rotor 248 is arranged relative to the interface 213 such that the blocking portion is configured to engage the rear wall 215 to prevent the rotor from moving backward.

[0073] The blocking portion 256 is configured to allow the sheath assembly 230 to separate from the housing 212 in the released position ( Figure 21 、 27 , 28 and 30B). In the release position, the blocking portion 256 is configured or arranged to allow the boot assembly 230 to be separated from the housing 212. In the release position, the protrusion of the blocking portion 256 is separated from the housing 212 (e.g., the rear wall 215) to allow the boot assembly 230 (and therefore the ferrule assembly 214) to be separated from the housing. Specifically, the blocking portion 256 is longitudinally aligned (e.g., axially aligned) with the channel 219 of the housing 212 so that the blocking portion can move into and through the channel. In the release position, the blocking portion 256 can move rearwardly out of the groove 217, into and through the channel 219, and out of the housing 212. The protrusion of the strain relief boot 232 is aligned with the channel 219 in the release position and can be moved out of the groove 217 through the channel when the boot assembly 230 is moved out of the housing 212 along the connection axis.

[0074] In the illustrated embodiment, the connector 249 of the rotor 248 includes a snap-fit ​​connector 251. The snap-fit ​​connector 251 is configured to form a snap-fit ​​connection with the housing 212 when the rotor 248 is in the locked position, thereby securing the guard assembly in the locked position. In the illustrated embodiment, the snap-fit ​​connector 251 includes a protrusion or rib with a rounded outer edge. The protrusion of the snap-fit ​​connector 251 is sized and shaped to be received in the snap-fit ​​recess 221 when the guard assembly 230 is in the locked position. To form the snap-fit ​​connection, the guard assembly 230 is moved (e.g., rotated) from the released position to the locked position. As the rotor 248 rotates in a first direction, the snap-fit ​​connector 251 moves past the rib 223 and into the snap-fit ​​recess 221. One or both of the rib 223 and the snap-fit ​​connector 251 can reliably deform to allow the snap-fit ​​connector to move past the rib with sufficient manual force. As the rotor 248 rotates to the locked position, the rib 223 and / or the snap-fit ​​connector 251 deflect or deform. Once the snap-fit ​​connector 251 is in the snap-fit ​​recess 221, the ribs 223 and / or snap-fit ​​connector return or spring back to their undeformed state, securing the guard assembly 230 in the locked position. The engagement of the snap-fit ​​connector 251 with the side of the housing 212 defining the snap-fit ​​recess 221 generally prevents the guard assembly 230 (e.g., the rotor 248) from being accidentally moved out of the locked position (e.g., into a released position).

[0075] To move the guard assembly 230 from the locked position to the released position, the guard assembly 230 (including the rotor 248) is rotated in a second direction, generally opposite the first direction, until the snap-fit ​​connector 251 is disposed within the channel 219. Thus, the channel 219 is sized and shaped to receive the snap-fit ​​connector 251 (broadly, the connector 249). When the guard assembly 230 is in the released position, the snap-fit ​​connector 251 is disposed at a rear portion of the channel 219 of the housing. The snap-fit ​​connector 251 can be moved into the channel 219 when the guard assembly 230 is moved in a forward direction (e.g., along the central axis CA) to couple the guard assembly to the housing 212, and can be moved out of the channel when the guard assembly is moved in a rearward direction (e.g., along the central axis CA) to decouple the guard assembly from the housing.

[0076] In the illustrated embodiment, the rotor 248 includes two connectors 249 (e.g., two blocking portions 256), one for each interface 213 of the housing 212. The two connectors 249 of the strain relief boot 232 are disposed on generally opposite sides of the strain relief boot. The two connectors 249 are generally identical in structure and operation.

[0077] After the ferrule assembly 214 is placed in the housing 212 to achieve the desired polarity, the ferrule assembly is retained in the housing by the boot assembly 230. Figure 30A -C. To connect the strain relief boot 232 (and more broadly, the boot assembly 230) to the housing 212, the user aligns the rotor 248 with the housing so that the connector 249 is aligned with the channel 219 of the interface 213 ( Figure 30A ). After the connector 249 is aligned with the channel 219, the user moves (e.g., inserts) the sheath assembly 230 forward into the rear end 218 of the housing 212. As the rotor 248 of the sheath assembly 230 is inserted into the housing 212, the blocking portion 256 moves into and through the channel 219. Similarly, the snap-fit ​​connector 251 moves into the channel 219 (broadly speaking, the connector 249 moves into the channel). The rotor 248 (e.g., a surface thereof) can engage the rear end 218 of the housing 212 to limit the forward movement of the sheath assembly 230 and position the sheath assembly in the released position ( Figure 30B After the guard assembly 230 is in the release position, the guard assembly (e.g., rotor 248) rotates ( Figure 30B ) to the locked position ( Figure 30C ). The user applies a sufficient amount of manual force to move the snap-fit ​​connector 251 from the channel 219, past the rib 223 and into the snap-fit ​​groove 221. The snap-fit ​​connector 251 secures the sheath assembly 230 in the locked position.

[0078] To separate the strain relief boot 232 (and more broadly, the boot assembly 230) from the housing 212, the user rotates the strain relief boot (e.g., the rotor 248) from the locked position to the released position. The user applies a sufficient amount of manual force to move the snap-fit ​​connector 251 from the snap-fit ​​recess 221, past the rib 223, and into the channel 219. The strain relief boot 232 may include markings 255 ( Figure 24 ), indicating the direction of movement (e.g., rotational direction) that the user needs to move the strain relief boot to separate the strain relief boot. In the illustrated embodiment, marking 255 is an arrow pointing in the direction of movement. After the boot assembly 230 is in the release position, the user can then pull the boot assembly in a rearward direction relative to the housing 212. The boot assembly 230 moves rearward until it is separated from the housing 212, thereby allowing the ferrule assembly 214 to be removed from the housing to change the polarity of the fiber optic connector 210.

[0079] refer to Figures 31-35Another embodiment of a fiber optic connector according to the present disclosure is generally designated by reference numeral 310. Fiber optic connector 310 is generally similar to fiber optic connector 210, and therefore, to facilitate understanding, reference numerals above "100" are used when similar, analogous, or identical components are used. Therefore, unless otherwise expressly stated or indicated, the above description of fiber optic connector 210 also applies to fiber optic connector 310. Fiber optic connector 310 has a housing 312 having an alignment key 320.

[0080] Fiber optic connector 310 of this embodiment is a reversible polarity fiber optic connector, similar to fiber optic connector 210. In this embodiment, fiber optic connector 310 includes a boot assembly 330 having a different configuration than boot assembly 230 described above. Boot assembly 330 includes a strain relief boot 332 and a rotor 348. In this embodiment, rotor 348 is a separate component from strain relief boot 332. In other words, rotor 348 is not integrally formed (e.g., as a single unit) with strain relief boot 332.

[0081] The rotor 348 can be attached (e.g., releasably attached) to the strain relief boot. Preferably, a connector 349 (e.g., a protrusion or hook) of the rotor 348 is releasably coupled to the strain relief boot 332. The rotor 348 includes a latch 360 that is configured to connect the rotor to the strain relief boot 332. The latch 360 is resiliently deflectable. The latch 360 can engage with the strain relief boot 332 to connect the rotor 348 to the strain relief boot. In the illustrated embodiment, the latch 360 can engage with the strain relief boot 332 adjacent the front end of the strain relief boot. The latch 360 includes a tab or catch 364 positioned to engage the strain relief boot 332. Specifically, the strain relief boot 332 includes (e.g., defines) a groove or opening 366 that is sized and shaped to receive the tab 364 of the latch 360. The tab 364 engages an edge of the opening 366 to secure the rotor 348 to the strain relief boot 332 ( Figure 34 and 35). To attach the rotor 348 to the strain relief boot 332, the rotor 348 is inserted into the front end of the strain relief boot. As the rotor 348 is inserted, the inclined surface of the latch 360 engages the strain relief boot 332, thereby deflecting the latch. Once the tab 354 of the latch 360 is aligned with the opening 366 in the strain relief boot 332, the latch returns or springs back to its undeformed position, thereby securing the rotor 348 to the strain relief boot. In the illustrated embodiment, the rotor 348 includes two latches 360 located on opposite sides of the rotor. The two latches 360 are generally identical (e.g., mirror images of each other). Similarly, the strain relief boot 332 includes two openings 366 on substantially opposite sides of the strain relief boot, one opening for each latch 360 of the rotor 348. The fiber optic connector 310 operates in the same manner as the fiber optic connector 210, except that the rotor 348 is formed separately from the strain relief boot 332. By separating the sheath 332 from the rotor 348, it is easier to make the sheath from a softer and more flexible material. This allows the sheath to easily follow the bending of the cable (e.g. Figure 35 ). At the same time, the rotor 348 can be made of a harder material to resist wear and securely position the ferrule assembly 312 and the boot assembly 330 within the housing 312.

[0082] Modifications and variations to the disclosed embodiments are possible without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.For example, where specific dimensions are given, it should be understood that they are merely exemplary and other dimensions are possible.

[0083] When introducing elements of the present invention or the embodiments thereof, the articles "a," "an," "the," and "said" are intended to mean that there are one or more of the elements. The terms "comprising," "including," and "having" are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements other than the listed elements.

[0084] As various changes could be made in the above constructions, products and methods without departing from the scope of the invention, it is intended that all matter contained in the above description and shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense.

Claims

1. A reversible polarity optical fiber connector, comprising: a housing having a front end and a rear end separated along a connection axis, the housing including a polarization key configured to engage a fiber optic receptacle to allow the housing to be coupled in only one orientation with respect to the fiber optic receptacle, the housing having an interior extending between the front end and the rear end; a ferrule assembly comprising a front body, a first ferrule, and a second ferrule, the first ferrule and the second ferrule being supported by the front body, the ferrule assembly being configured to be docked and received in the housing in a first position corresponding to a first polarity of the optical fiber connector and in a second position corresponding to a second polarity of the optical fiber connector, the first ferrule and the second ferrule both protruding from the front end of the housing in the first position and the second position, the ferrule assembly being configured to form an optical connection with the optical fiber receptacle; as well as and a lever, having a lock mechanism, wherein the lever is engaged with the lock member and the lever arm is engaged with the lock member, and the lever arm is engaged with the lock member and the lever arm is engaged with the lock member, wherein the lever arm is engaged with the lock member and the lever arm is engaged with the lock member, wherein the lever arm is engaged with the lock member and the lever arm is engaged with the lock member, wherein the lever arm is engaged with the lock member and the lever arm is engaged with the lock member, wherein the lever arm is engaged with the lock member and the lever arm is engaged with the lock member, 2. The reversible polarity optical fiber connector according to claim 1, wherein: The rotor is configured to rotate 90° or less between the locked position and the released position.

3. The reversible polarity optical fiber connector according to claim 1, wherein: The housing and the ferrule assembly are not mechanically connected to each other.

4. The reversible polarity optical fiber connector according to claim 1, wherein: The guard assembly includes a locking device connected to the housing.

5. The reversible polarity optical fiber connector according to claim 1, wherein: The rotor has a non-circular cross-section.

6. The reversible polarity optical fiber connector according to claim 1, wherein: The boot assembly includes a strain relief boot configured to receive a cable therethrough, the strain relief boot including the rotor.

7. The reversible polarity optical fiber connector according to claim 6, wherein: The blocking portion of the rotor includes a protrusion.

8. The reversible polarity optical fiber connector according to claim 7, wherein: The housing includes a rear wall with which the projection of the strain relief boot is engageable to prevent separation of the boot assembly from the housing along the connection axis in the locked position of the rotor.

9. The reversible polarity optical fiber connector according to claim 8, wherein: The housing includes a recess defined by the rear wall and a passage opening into the recess at one end and opening to the rear end of the housing at an opposite end, the projection of the strain relief boot being aligned with the passage in the released position of the rotor and being movable out of the recess through the passage when the boot assembly is moved out of the housing along the connection axis.

10. A reversible polarity optical fiber connector, comprising: a housing having a front end and a rear end separated along a connection axis, the housing including a polarization key configured to engage a fiber optic receptacle to allow the fiber optic connector to be coupled in only one orientation with respect to the fiber optic receptacle, the housing having an interior extending between the front end and the rear end; a ferrule assembly received in the housing and configured to form an optical connection with the fiber optic receptacle; as well as The ferrule assembly is releasably coupled to the housing so that the ferrule assembly can slide into the interior of the housing along the connection axis and can slide out of the interior of the housing along the connection axis when the housing assembly is separated from the housing, so that the ferrule assembly can change its orientation relative to the housing to change the polarity of the ferrule assembly, the housing assembly including a hook configured to engage the housing to secure the housing assembly to the housing, the housing assembly being rotatable relative to the housing between a locked position in which the hook engages the housing to secure the housing assembly to the housing and a released position in which the hook disengages from the housing to allow the housing assembly and the ferrule assembly to be separated from the housing.

11. The reversible polarity optical fiber connector according to claim 10, wherein: The ferrule assembly and the boot assembly are configured to be coupled to the housing in a first orientation and a second orientation.

12. The reversible polarity fiber optic connector of claim 11, wherein the hooks of the boot assembly engage the housing to secure the boot assembly to the housing when the boot assembly is in both the first orientation and the second orientation.

13. The reversible polarity optical fiber connector according to claim 11, wherein: The guard assembly rotates between the locked position and the released position.

14. The reversible polarity optical fiber connector according to claim 11, wherein: The holster assembly includes a snap-fit ​​connector configured to form a snap-fit ​​connection with the housing when the holster assembly is in the locked position to secure the holster assembly in the locked position.

15. The reversible polarity fiber optic connector according to claim 11, wherein: The hook is a first hook, and the guard assembly further includes a second hook configured to engage the housing to secure the guard assembly to the housing, wherein in the locked position, the second hook engages the housing to secure the guard assembly to the housing, and in the released position, the second hook disengages the housing to allow the guard assembly to be separated from the housing.

16. The reversible polarity fiber optic connector according to claim 11, wherein: The boot assembly includes a strain relief boot to which the hook is releasably coupled.

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