Optical fiber connector and method of connecting optical fibers

Abstract

A connector for optically connecting an optical fiber to an optical fiber port, the connector defining a first length LI and a second length L2, the first length LI being measured between a leading edge and a trailing edge of the connector when the connector is in a locked configuration, the second length L2 being measured between the leading edge and the trailing edge of the connector when the connector is in an unlocked configuration, wherein LI is different than L2. In an embodiment, L2 is greater than LI. In another embodiment, the connector includes a boot and a housing, and the boot and the housing are configured to float relative to one another.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application 16 / 832,937, filed March 27, 2020, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] This invention relates to connectors for optical fibers, and particularly, but not exclusively, to connectors for duplex optical fiber cables. Background Technology

[0004] In data communication systems, fiber optic systems with multiple fiber optic cables are frequently used to connect communication nodes. Typically, a fiber optic cable contains a pair of fibers, known as a duplex fiber optic cable, with one fiber used for transmitting and the other for receiving (usually, the receiving fiber is labeled A, and the transmitting fiber is labeled B). The overall effect of data communication cable cabling is that the transmitting cable B connects to the receiving port A, and the receiving cable A connects to the transmitting port B. However, during installation, installers often confuse the transmitting and receiving cables, and cross-installation can occur, resulting in transmitting cable B not being connected to receiving port A, and receiving cable A not being connected to transmitting port B. For many types of connectors, installers cannot simply unplug the duplex cable connector and reinsert them in another orientation because the connector is unidirectional and therefore can only be inserted into the complementary receiving port in one orientation. Therefore, installers must replace the existing cable or remove the connector from the fiber and then efficiently remanufacture the cable in the field, which is very cumbersome and time-consuming.

[0005] Another issue with full-duplex fiber optic cable connectors is that removing the connector from the receiving port can be difficult. This is especially true for panels with high-density connectors, which means limited space around each connector. Therefore, users may find it difficult to manipulate the locking lever when removing the connector from the panel.

[0006] Therefore, there is a need for an improved fiber optic connector, especially for use in duplex fiber optic cables. Summary of the Invention

[0007] Aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, or may become apparent from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention.

[0008] According to one aspect, this disclosure relates to a connector comprising a housing configured to receive and optically connect the optical fiber to an optical fiber port located at a leading edge of the connector. The connector includes a latch coupled to the housing and extending from the housing toward the leading edge of the connector. The connector further includes a handle coupled to the latch. The handle is configured to move the latch relative to the optical fiber port between a locked position and an unlocked position. Movement of the handle away from the leading edge of the connector is configured to unlock the latch from the optical fiber port.

[0009] According to another aspect, this disclosure relates to a connector for optical fibers. The connector includes a latch extending from the connector housing in a direction toward the leading edge of the connector. The latch is configured to selectively connect the connector to an optical fiber port. When the latch is not biased, at least 25% of the length of the latch follows a curve.

[0010] According to another aspect, this disclosure relates to a method for disengaging a connector from an optical fiber port. The method includes moving a handle of the connector in a direction away from the optical fiber port. The handle is engaged with a latch on the connector. The latch is engaged with a housing of the connector and extends toward the leading edge of the connector. The method further includes removing the connector from the optical fiber port.

[0011] According to another aspect, a connector for optically connecting an optical fiber to an optical fiber port defines a first length L1 and a second length L2, wherein the first length L1 is measured between the leading and trailing edges of the connector when the connector is in a locked configuration, and the second length L2 is measured between the leading and trailing edges of the connector when the connector is in an unlocked configuration, wherein L1 is different from L2.

[0012] According to another aspect, a connector assembly for optically connecting an optical fiber to an optical fiber port includes a housing configured to receive the optical fiber. The housing includes a latch configured to selectively engage the housing to the optical fiber port. The connector further includes a tail cover having an aperture configured to receive the optical fiber. Displacement of the tail cover relative to the housing unlocks the latch from the optical fiber port.

[0013] According to another aspect, a method for releasing a connector from an optical fiber port includes applying a biasing force to a tail cover of the connector in a direction away from the connector's housing. The housing includes a latch configured to selectively engage the connector to the optical fiber port. Applying the biasing force to the tail cover causes a change in the length of the connector, the length of which is measured as the length between the leading edge of the housing and the trailing edge of the tail cover. The method further includes removing the connector from the optical fiber port after the latch has switched to an unlocked configuration.

[0014] According to another aspect, a connector assembly for optically connecting an optical fiber to an optical fiber port may include a housing configured to receive the optical fiber. The housing may include a latch configured to selectively engage the housing to the optical fiber port. The latch may have a curved profile in both a locking and unlocking configuration. The radius of curvature of the latch in the unlocking configuration may be greater than that in the locking configuration. The latch can be biased from the locking configuration to the unlocking configuration when a biasing force is applied along the tail cover of the connector. More specifically, the latch can move to the unlocking configuration when a biasing force is applied to the tail cover in a direction generally away from the housing. An intermediate element connecting the tail cover to the latch can transmit the biasing force to the latch, thereby moving the latch to the unlocking configuration, in which the connector can be removed from the optical fiber port.

[0015] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the invention will be better understood with reference to the following description and the appended claims. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0016] The description, with reference to the accompanying drawings, sets forth a complete and practicable disclosure of the invention, including the best mode thereof, for those skilled in the art.

[0017] Figure 1 A perspective view of a connector according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, as observed in an unbiased state.

[0018] Figure 2 Includes, as observed in the unbiased state Figure 1 A side view of a connector according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0019] Figure 3 A perspective view of a connector according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, as observed in an unbiased state.

[0020] Figure 4 Includes, as observed in the unbiased state Figure 3 A side view of a connector according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0021] Figure 5 Include Figure 3 and Figure 4 A side view of a connector according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0022] Figure 6A Includes, as observed in the unbiased state Figures 3 to 5 An enlarged view of the latch of a connector according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0023] Figure 6B Includes, as observed in the bias state Figure 6A An enlarged view of the latch of a connector according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0024] Figure 7 A top view of a handle comprising a connector according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0025] Figure 8 A top view of a connector including one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0026] Figure 9A A side view including a connector coupled to an optical fiber port according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0027] Figure 9B Include Figure 9A A side view of a connector according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the connector being in a biased state for removal from the fiber optic port.

[0028] Figure 10 A method for disconnecting a connector from an optical fiber port according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0029] Figure 11 A perspective view of a connector including one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0030] Figure 12 A perspective view of a tail cover including a connector according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0031] Figure 13A and Figure 13B Top views of various embodiments of a connector comprising intermediate elements according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0032] Figure 14 A perspective view of a connector including one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0033] Figure 15 A side view of a connector according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0034] Figure 16 A perspective view of an intermediate element of a connector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] Figure 17 A perspective view of a connector including one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0036] Figure 18 A perspective view of a tail cover including a connector according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0037] Figure 19 A top perspective view of an intermediate element of a connector comprising one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0038] Figure 20 Bottom perspective view of an intermediate element of a connector according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0039] Figure 21 A side view of a connector in a locking configuration according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0040] Figure 22 A side view of a connector in an unlocked configuration according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0041] Figure 23 A side view of a connector in an unassembled configuration according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0042] Figure 24 Bottom perspective view of a connector in an unassembled configuration according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0043] Figure 25 Bottom perspective view of a connector in an unassembled configuration according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0044] Figure 26 A rear perspective view including a connector according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0045] Figure 27 A front perspective view of a connector including one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0046] Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of the invention, with one or more examples of these embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Reference numerals are repeatedly used in this specification and the drawings to denote the same or similar features or elements of the invention. Each example is provided by way of explanation and illustration of the invention, and not as a limitation thereof. Indeed, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to the invention without departing from its scope or spirit. For example, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment may be used with another embodiment to produce yet another embodiment. Therefore, the invention is intended to cover such modifications and variations that fall within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0047] When used herein, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third” are used interchangeably to distinguish one component from another and do not necessarily indicate the order or importance of the components. When used herein, approximate terms (such as “approximately” or “about”) include values ​​within 10% larger or smaller than the stated value. When used in the context of angles or directions, such terms include angles or directions within 10 degrees larger or smaller than the stated angle or direction. For example, “approximately vertical” includes directions within 10 degrees in the vertical plane in any direction (e.g., clockwise or counterclockwise).

[0048] Referring now to the accompanying drawings, this disclosure generally relates to a connector for optical fibers. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The example illustrates an exemplary connector 100 comprising a housing 102, a tail cover 104, and a handle 106. The connector 100 may engage with an optical fiber 108 extending from the housing 102 through the tail cover 104.

[0049] In one or more embodiments, housing 102 may include a plurality of components configured to engage with each other to form housing 102. For example, housing 102 may include two or more components that are releasably snapped together via snap-fit ​​connectors. Housing 102 may include a tail end hole (not shown) and a front end hole (a plurality of front end holes) 110. A segment of optical fiber cable may be disposed within housing 102 and extend at least partially between the tail end hole and the front end holes (a plurality of front end holes) 110. In an embodiment, optical fiber 108 may be inserted into housing 102 through the tail end hole. Tail cover 104 may cover a portion of optical fiber 108 and the tail portion 112 of housing 102. Tail cover 104 may provide stress relief for optical fiber 108, thereby preventing undesirable stress loads on optical fiber 108 at the engagement site with housing 102.

[0050] The optical fiber 108 can be branched into a first optical fiber and a second optical fiber (not shown) within the housing 102. The first optical fiber can exit the housing 102 through a first front end hole, and the second optical fiber can exit the housing 102 through a second front end hole. The first optical fiber can correspond to the receiving optical fiber (A), and the second optical fiber can correspond to the transmitting optical fiber (B).

[0051] A first optical fiber may extend into a hole 116 formed in a first inner body 114, and the end of the first optical fiber may be connected to a first ferrule 118. The first inner body 114 may protrude from the housing 102 via a first front end hole 110. In an embodiment, the first inner body 114 may be fixed relative to the housing 102. The first inner body 114 may include, for example, a joining portion (not shown) to secure the first inner body 114 to the housing 102. The joining portion may prevent the first inner body 114 from being extruded from the housing 102 and / or prevent rotation between the first inner body 114 and the housing 102. Furthermore, the joining portion may hold the first inner body 114 in a fixed relative position relative to the housing 102.

[0052] The first ferrule 118 may protrude from a hole 116 formed in the first inner body 114. The first ferrule 118 and / or the first inner body 114 may typically define a leading edge 120 of the connector 102. The leading edge 120 may be inserted into an optical fiber port (FIG. 9), for example, into a portion of an optical fiber panel, to allow optical connection between the optical fiber 108 and another optical fiber (not shown) contained within or coupled to the panel.

[0053] The second optical fiber can extend into a hole 122 formed in the second inner body 124. The end of the second optical fiber can be connected to a second ferrule 126 protruding from the hole 122. The second inner body 124 can be fixed relative to the housing 102. The second inner body 124 may include a joining portion (not shown) to secure the second inner body 124 to the housing 102, said joining portion being similar to or different from the joining portion previously described with respect to the first inner body 114. This joining portion can prevent the second inner body 124 from being extruded from the housing 102 and / or prevent rotation between the second inner body 124 and the housing 102. Furthermore, the joining portion can hold the second inner body 124 in a fixed relative position with respect to the housing 102.

[0054] In one or more embodiments, the housing 102 and the first and second inner bodies 114 and 124 may be formed of interconnected components. That is, for example, the first and second inner bodies 114 and 124 may be integral with the housing 102. Alternatively, the first and second bodies 114 and 124 may include discrete members configured to engage with the housing 102. For example, the first and second bodies 114 and 124 may be engaged with the housing 102, for example, when two or more components of the housing 102 snap together.

[0055] The connector according to one or more embodiments described herein is capable of polarity reversal. That is, for example, the polarities of the first and second optical fibers can be interchanged when viewed relative to the position of the latch (described in more detail below). More specifically, the receiving fiber (A) and the transmitting fiber (B) can be interchanged. In an embodiment, the receiving fiber (A) and the transmitting fiber (B) can be interchanged relative to the housing 102. For example, the housing 102 may have a removable surface through which the receiving fiber (A) and the transmitting fiber (B) can be accessed to allow an operator to change the position of the receiving fiber (A) and the transmitting fiber (B). In another embodiment, the housing 102 can be removed from other components of the connector 100 (e.g., the tail cover 104) and reinstalled in a reversed orientation (i.e., reversed polarity). The latch (described in more detail below) can be coupled to the housing 102 (e.g., integral with the housing 102) such that rotation of the housing 102 causes rotation of the latch. By allowing for interchangeable polarities, operators can adjust connectors (multiple connectors) locally, thereby reducing costs and allowing operators to carry fewer redundant components.

[0056] As described above, connector 100 may further include a latch 128 extending from housing 102. In an embodiment, latch 128 may include a first latch 130 and a second latch 132. The first latch 130 may correspond to a first inner body 114, and the second latch 132 may correspond to a second inner body 124. That is, the first latch 130 may extend over a portion of the first inner body 114, and the second latch 132 may extend over a portion of the second inner body 124.

[0057] Latch 128 (hereinafter collectively referred to as latch 128, first latch 130 and second latch 132) can be arranged to releasably lock connector 100 to a complementary connector assembly. For example, connector 100 can be used with an optical fiber port including mating members (not shown) configured to receive and secure connector 100 via one or more locking features 134 disposed on latch 128. In the illustrated embodiment, locking features (multiple locking features) 134 include an inclined surface adjacent to a front end 136 of latch 128. As described in more detail herein, front end 136 of latch 128 can be spaced apart from housing 102, thereby allowing locking features (multiple locking features) 134 to move relatively closer to and away from housing 102 to lock and unlock connector 100 relative to optical fiber port.

[0058] The latch 128 may engage with the housing 102 at its tail end 138. In one embodiment, the latch 128 may be integral with the housing 102. That is, the latch 128 may be an integral part of the housing 102. In another embodiment, the latch 128 may include one or more discrete components configured to engage with the housing 102.

[0059] The front end 136 of latch 128 can be spaced apart from the rear end 138 of latch 128 by a middle portion 140. In an embodiment, the middle portion 140 may comprise the middle portion of latch 128 between 1% and 99% of the length of latch 128 (e.g., between 10% and 90% of the length of latch 128) (when viewed from a side view). When latch 128 is in an unbiased state, when viewed from a side view ( Figure 2 When observed, the connector 100 in the illustrated embodiment has a relatively straight middle portion 140. That is, the middle portion 140 of the latch 128 can be generally flat before force is applied along the handle 106, as described in more detail herein.

[0060] The latch 128 may typically extend from the housing 102 in a direction toward the leading edge 120 of the connector 100. For example, the tail end 138 of the latch 128 may extend from the housing 102, and at least a portion of the intermediate portion 140 may be oriented in a direction generally toward the leading edge 120 of the connector 100. Thus, the front end 136 of the latch 128 may be located closer to the leading edge 120 of the connector 100 than the tail end 138 of the latch 128. In an embodiment, the latch 128 may be cantilevered.

[0061] In one or more embodiments, the latch 128 may further include a handle engagement member 142 forming an engagement portion configured to engage with the handle 106. In embodiments, the handle engagement member 142 may form a releasable engagement portion with the handle 106. In this way, the handle 106 can be selectively removed from the latch 128. In some cases, a separate handle 106 allows for easier formation of the connector 100 by permitting more complex connector geometries, which would otherwise be impossible in certain forming processes, such as molding. In the illustrated embodiments, the handle engagement member 142 includes a retaining member 144, such as a lip, configured to retain engagement between the handle 106 and the handle engagement member 142. In another embodiment, the handle 106 may be integrally formed with the housing 102, for example, at the latch 128.

[0062] A handle 106 may extend between a latch engagement end 146 and a pull end 148. The latch engagement end 146 may include one or more openings 150 configured to mate with the latch 128 and other components of the housing 102 to allow locking and unlocking operations, as described in more detail herein. The handle 106 may have a varying profile, such as a tapered profile, between the latch engagement end 146 and the pull end 148. In an embodiment, when viewed from a top view (e.g., ...), Figure 8 When observed, the handle 106 can define a tapered profile, which is similar to the tapered profile of the connector 100.

[0063] In an embodiment, one or more markings may be included on the handle 106 to indicate, for example, which direction to pull the handle 106 to unlock the connector 100 from the fiber optic port.

[0064] Figure 3 and Figure 4 An example illustrating an embodiment of connector 300. (Referencing previous references) Figure 1 and Figure 2 Compared to the described connector 100, connector 300 may have any number of similar or different features. For example, connector 300 may include a housing 302, a tail cover 304, and a handle 306. Connector 300 may be coupled to optical fiber 308.

[0065] In one or more embodiments, housing 302 may include a plurality of components configured to engage with each other to form housing 302. For example, housing 302 may include two or more components that snap together in a releasable manner via snap-fit ​​connectors. Housing 302 may include a tail end hole (not shown) and first and second front end holes 310. A segment of optical fiber cable may be disposed within housing 302 and extend at least partially between the tail end hole and the first and second front end holes 310. Optical fiber 308 may be inserted into housing 302 through the tail end hole. Tail cover 304 may cover a portion of optical fiber 308 and the tail portion 312 of housing 302.

[0066] Optical fiber 308 can be branched into a first optical fiber and a second optical fiber (not shown) within the housing 302. The first optical fiber can exit the housing 302 through a first front end hole 310, and the second optical fiber can exit the housing 302 through a second front end hole 310. The first optical fiber can correspond to the receiving optical fiber (A), and the second optical fiber can correspond to the transmitting optical fiber (B).

[0067] A first optical fiber can be inserted into a hole 316 formed in a first inner body 314, and the end of the first optical fiber can be connected to a first ferrule 318. The first inner body 314 can protrude from the housing 302 via a first front end hole 310. The first inner body 314 can be fixed relative to the housing 302. The first inner body 314 may include a engagement portion (not shown) to secure the first inner body 314 to the housing 302. The engagement portion can prevent the first inner body 314 from being extruded from the housing 302 and / or prevent rotation between the first inner body 314 and the housing 302. Furthermore, the engagement portion can hold the first inner body 314 in a fixed relative position relative to the housing 302.

[0068] The first ferrule 318 may protrude from the hole 316 formed in the first inner body 314. The first ferrule 318 and / or the first inner body 314 may typically define a leading edge 320 of the connector 302. The leading edge 320 can be inserted into an optical fiber port (FIG. 9), for example, into a portion of an optical fiber panel, to allow an optical connection between the optical fiber 306 and another optical fiber (not shown).

[0069] A second optical fiber can be inserted into a hole 322 formed in the second inner body 324. The end of the second optical fiber can be connected to a second ferrule 326 protruding from the hole 322. The second inner body 324 can be fixed relative to the housing 302. The second inner body 324 may include a joining portion (not shown) to secure the second inner body 324 to the housing 302, said joining portion being similar to or different from the joining portion previously described with respect to the first inner body 314. This joining portion can prevent the second inner body 324 from being extruded from the housing 302 and / or prevent rotation between the second inner body 324 and the housing 302. Furthermore, the joining portion can hold the second inner body 324 in a fixed relative position with respect to the housing 302.

[0070] In some cases, housing 302 may include a first inner body 314 and a second inner body 324. That is, for example, the first inner body 314 and the second inner body 324 may be integral with housing 302. Alternatively, the first inner body 314 and the second inner body 324 may include separate components configured to engage with housing 302. For example, the first inner body 314 and the second inner body 324 may engage with housing 302 when two or more components of housing 302 snap together.

[0071] Similar to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The connector 100 illustrated in the diagram may further include a latch 328 extending from the housing 302. In an embodiment, the latch 328 may include a first latch 330 and a second latch 332. The first latch 330 may correspond to a first inner body 314, and the second latch 332 may correspond to a second inner body 324. That is, the first latch 330 may extend over a portion of the first inner body 314, and the second latch 332 may extend over a portion of the second inner body 324.

[0072] Latch 328 (hereinafter collectively referred to as latch 328) can be arranged to releasably lock connector 300 to a complementary connector assembly. For example, connector 300 can be used with an optical fiber port including a mating member (not shown) configured to receive a locking configuration 334 disposed on latch 328. In the illustrated embodiment, locking configuration 334 includes an inclined surface adjacent to a front end 336 of latch 328. The front end 336 of latch 328 can be spaced apart from housing 302, thereby allowing locking configuration 334 to move relative to and away from housing 302 to lock and unlock the optical fiber port.

[0073] The latch 328 may engage with the housing 302 at its tail end 336. In one embodiment, the latch 328 may be integral with the housing 302 or with a component associated with the housing 302. That is, the latch 328 may be part of the housing 302. In another embodiment, the latch 328 may include one or more separate components configured to engage with the housing 302.

[0074] The front end 336 of latch 328 may be spaced apart from the rear end 338 of latch 328 by the middle portion 340 of latch 328. Latch 328 may generally extend from housing 302 in a direction toward leading edge 320 of connector 300. That is, for example, the rear end 338 of latch 328 may extend from housing 302, wherein the middle portion 340 is oriented in a direction generally toward leading edge 320 of connector 300. In this way, the front end 336 of latch 328 may be closer to leading edge 320 of connector 300 than the rear end 338 of latch 328.

[0075] In one or more embodiments, the latch 328 may further include a handle engagement member 342 that forms an engagement portion with the handle 306. In embodiments, the handle engagement member 342 may form a releasable engagement portion with the handle 306. In this way, the handle 306 can be selectively removed from the latch 328. In embodiments, the use of the discrete handle 306 may allow for easier formation of the connector 300 by allowing for the use of more complex geometries during the forming (e.g., molding) process. In the illustrated embodiments, the handle engagement member 342 includes a retaining member 344, such as a lip, configured to maintain engagement between the handle 306 and the latch 328.

[0076] The handle 306 may include a latch engagement end 346 and a pull end 348. The latch engagement end 346 may include one or more openings 350 configured to mate with the latch 328 and other components of the housing 302 to allow locking and unlocking operations, as described in more detail herein. The pull end 348 of the handle 306 may include a gripping area 352 configured to make it easier for a user to grip the handle 306 when the user pulls it.

[0077] Figure 3 and Figure 4The latch 328 is illustrated as being in an unbiased state where no external force is applied to it. This configuration can be present when the connector 300 is disengaged from other components (e.g., fiber optic ports). In one or more embodiments herein, the terms "biased" and "unbiased" can be used to refer to the relative position of the latch when a force is applied to the latch 128 or 328, for example, via handle 106 or 306. When a force is applied to handle 106 or 306, the latch 128 or 328 can be considered to be in a biased state. When the force along handle 106 or 306 is terminated, the latch 128 or 328 can return to the unbiased state. In a particular embodiment, the latch 128 or 328 may further define a third state, such as a locked state, in which the latch 128 or 328 is engaged with a component, such as a fiber optic port. The third state can be between the biased state and the unbiased state. In other words, for example, a component such as a fiber optic port can provide a slight bias pressure to latches 128 or 328, thereby preventing a complete springback from the biased state to the unbiased state, even when the force along handle 106 or 306 is terminated. In the unbiased state, latches 128 or 328 can be in a locked position relative to, for example, a component of the fiber optic port. In the biased state, latches 128 or 328 can be in an unlocked position relative to the component, i.e., latches 128 or 328 can be removed from the component.

[0078] In one or more embodiments, when latch 328 is in an unbiased state, at least a portion of latch 328 may be presented along curve 354 when viewed from a side view. For example, in one or more embodiments, at least a portion of the middle portion 340 of latch 328 may be presented along curve 354. In one embodiment, when latch 328 is unbiased, at least 25% of the length of latch 328 is presented along curve 354, such as when latch 328 is unbiased, at least 35% of the length of latch 328 is presented along curve 354, such as when latch 328 is unbiased, at least 40% of the length of latch 328 is presented along curve 354, such as when latch 328 is unbiased, at least 45% of the length of latch 328 is presented along curve 354, such as when latch 328 is unbiased, at least 50% of the length of latch 328 is presented along curve 354. For example, when latch 328 is not biased, at least 60% of the length of latch 328 follows curve 354; for example, when latch 328 is not biased, at least 70% of the length of latch 328 follows curve 354; for example, when latch 328 is not biased, at least 75% of the length of latch 328 follows curve 354; for example, when latch 328 is not biased, at least 80% of the length of latch 328 follows curve 354; for example, when latch 328 is not biased, at least 90% of the length of latch 328 follows curve 354. In embodiments, curve 354 may represent a best-fit curve associated with the curvature of a curve or a portion of the curve of latch 328.

[0079] In one or more embodiments, curve 354 may define a radius of curvature R1 ( Figure 6A The radius of curvature R1 is measured when latch 328 is in an unbiased state. For example, R1 can be less than 4 inches (in), such as less than 3 in, less than 2 in, less than 1.75 in, less than 1.5 in, less than 1.25 in, less than 1 in, less than 0.75 in, or less than 0.5 in. The length of latch 328 or the unbiased radius of curvature R1 can affect the force required to unlock latch 328 from the fiber optic port, as described in more detail herein.

[0080] In one or more embodiments, latch 328 may follow curve 354 along at least a portion of the middle portion 340 and the entire tail end 338 of latch 328. That is, latch 328 may define a continuous curved profile measured from the housing 302 through at least a portion of the middle portion 340. In embodiments, locking configuration 334 may be positioned along the portion of latch 328 that does not follow curve 354 to allow latch 328 to be used with existing fiber optic ports having predetermined engagement configuration shapes and designs.

[0081] Figure 5 The illustration shows a side view of connector 300, where arrow 500 indicates the direction of pull of handle 306 when connector 300 is unlocked from the fiber optic port, and arrow 502 indicates the direction of deformation of the front end 336 of latch 328 in response to pulling handle 306. To disengage connector 300 from the fiber optic port, the operator can pull handle 306 in the direction indicated by arrow 500. Deflection of latch 328 (e.g., the middle portion 340 and the tail end 338) can deflect the front end 336 downward, thereby allowing locking configuration 334 to pass over the mating member (not shown) of the fiber optic port. Regarding Figure 5 The downward deflection used refers to the deflection in the direction toward the housing 302.

[0082] The curvature of latch 328 reduces the force required to move latch 328 from the locked position to the unlocked position in the direction indicated by arrow 500. For example, unlocking... Figure 1 and Figure 2 The force required for the latch 128 illustrated in the example may be approximately 30 Newtons (N), while similar latches with curved profiles (e.g., Figure 3 and Figure 4 It can be unlocked when a force of approximately 10N is applied.

[0083] Figure 6A The example illustrates connector 300 in a locked position, for example, when engaged with a mating member of the fiber optic port. It should be understood that the locked position can be associated with the unbiased state of latch 328. Alternatively, the locked position can include a slight deflection of latch 328 provided by the mating member of the fiber optic port, but such a deflection is possible, for example, along arrow 502 (…). Figure 5 The bias voltage is less than the bias voltage in the bias state (e.g., when latch 328 is biased to install connector 300 to or remove connector 300 from fiber optic port). Figure 6B The example illustrates connector 300 in the unlocked position, which allows an operator to remove connector 300 from the fiber optic port.

[0084] In the locked position ( Figure 6AThe latch 328 defines a first aspect ratio, and the effective length L of the latch 328 is [not specified]. E1 Relative to the effective height H of latch 328 E1 To measure the first aspect ratio. In the unlocked position ( Figure 6B The latch 328 defines a second aspect ratio, through the effective length L of the latch 328. E2 Relative to the effective height H of latch 328 E2 The second aspect ratio is measured. The first aspect ratio can be defined by equation (1).

[0085]

[0086] The second aspect ratio can be defined by equation (2).

[0087]

[0088] The effective length L of latch 328 can be measured from the distance between the opposite ends of latch 328 (e.g., between the front end 336 and the rear end 338 of latch 328). E1 and L E2 The effective height H of the latch 328 can be measured by the distance perpendicular to the main surface 356 of the housing 302 between the nearest main surface 356 of the housing 302 or the farthest point 358 of the latch 328 relative to the best-fit plane of the main surface. E1 and H E2 .

[0089] When handle 306 is along Figure 5 When pulled in the direction indicated by arrow 500, the effective length of latch 328 can decrease, while the effective height of latch 328 can increase. At this point, the aspect ratio of latch 328 can decrease as latch 328 moves from the locked position to the unlocked position.

[0090] Furthermore, the radius of curvature of latch 328 can change during the transition between the locked and unlocked positions. For example, latch 328 or a portion thereof can be defined in the locked position ( Figure 6A The first radius of curvature R1 measured in the unlocked position and in the unlocked position Figure 6B The second radius of curvature R2 is measured in the figure. In one embodiment, R1 can be greater than R2. For example, R1 can be at least 1.01 times R2, such as at least 1.05 times R2, such as at least 1.1 times R2, such as at least 1.2 times R2, such as at least 1.3 times R2, such as at least 1.4 times R2, or such as at least 1.5 times R2. In another embodiment, R1 can be no greater than 10 times R2, such as no greater than 7.5 times R2, or no greater than 5 times R2.

[0091] As the latch 328 deforms between the locked and unlocked positions, the distance between the locking mechanism 334 and the housing 302 can change. For example, in the locked position, the locking mechanism 334 can define a locking distance D. L The locking distance D is measured from the distance between the locking mechanism 334 and the nearest main surface 356 of the housing 302 when the latch 328 is in the locked position. L The locking distance D L Greater than the unlock distance D U The unlocking distance D is measured from the distance between the locking mechanism 334 and the nearest main surface 356 of the housing 302 when the latch 328 is in the unlocked position. U Lock distance D L And unlock distance D U It can be configured such that the connector 300 can be selectively attached to and disconnected from the fiber optic port.

[0092] Figure 7 The example illustrates a top view of the connector handle 700. The handle 700 may include features similar to the aforementioned handle 106 or 306. In one embodiment, the handle 700 has a latching engagement end 702 and a pull end 704, the pull end having a gripping area 706 configured to facilitate easier gripping of the handle 700.

[0093] The handle 700 may include one or more openings 708 configured to mate with latches (e.g., latch 128 or latch 328) and other members of the housing (e.g., housing 102 or 302). Openings 708 may include one or more engagement openings 710 and one or more latch openings 712, the engagement openings being configured to engage with handle engagement members (e.g., handle engagement members 142 or 342), and the latch openings being configured to receive latches (e.g., latches 128 or 328) passing through them. A tongue 714 may extend into the latch opening 712. The tongue 714 may be configured to extend into the gap between the first and second latches 130 and 132 or 330 and 332. For example, see reference... Figure 8 The tongue 714 may extend into the gap 716 between the first and second latches 130 and 132 or 330 and 332. The tongue 714 may prevent the handle 700 from twisting in the lateral direction (e.g., along line 718) and keep the handle 700 properly positioned relative to the rest of the connector.

[0094] Figure 9A Example illustration of connector 900 according to one or more embodiments described herein, the connector being coupled to fiber optic port 902. Figure 9BThe example illustrates connector 900, in which a force is applied to the connector via handle 904 to bias a locking feature (e.g., latch 906) to an unlocked position, thereby allowing removal of connector 900 from fiber optic port 902. More specifically, the force applied via handle 904 can deflect latch 906 over mating member 908 within fiber optic port 902. In an embodiment, a portion of handle 904 may extend into fiber optic port 902. The latch 906 of connector 900 can engage with mating member 908 of fiber optic port 902 and selectively secure connector 900 to fiber optic port 902. As handle 904 is pulled away from fiber optic port 902, latch 906 can deflect downward, for example toward housing 910 of connector 900, thereby releasing latch 906 from mating member 908 of fiber optic port 902 and allowing removal of connector 900 from fiber optic port 902.

[0095] It should be noted that, Figure 9A and Figure 9B The illustrated profile variation of the curvature of latch 906 is merely exemplary. In some cases, latch 906 may be deformed primarily at one end, along the middle portion, or a combination thereof. In particular, the final profile variation of latch 906 may be associated with the position of handle engagement member 142 or 342, the design of handle engagement member 142 or 342, the shape of latch 906, the design of handle 904, or any combination thereof. Certain profile designs may be particularly well-suited to different fiber optic ports 902 and can be selected accordingly.

[0096] Figure 10 This example illustrates an exemplary method 1000 for disengaging a connector from an optical fiber port. Method 1000 may include a step 1002 of moving a handle of the connector in a direction away from the optical fiber port. The handle may be coupled to a latch of the connector. The latch may be coupled to the housing of the connector and may extend toward the leading edge of the connector. In one embodiment, as previously described, moving the handle may reduce the aspect ratio of the latch. In another embodiment, moving the handle away from the optical fiber port may reduce the radius of curvature of the latch. In yet another embodiment, moving the handle may move a central portion of the latch in a direction away from the housing (e.g., Figure 6A and Figure 6B Method 1000 may further include step 1004 of removing the connector from the fiber optic port. In an embodiment, method 1000 may also include reattaching the connector to the fiber optic port by inserting the connector into the fiber optic port until the locking mechanism of the connector engages with a mating member of the fiber optic port. When the locking mechanism engages with the mating member, a latch may automatically move to a locked position.

[0097] In an embodiment, the connector can be biased from a locked configuration to an unlocked configuration by applying a biasing force along the connector's tail cover. For example, Figure 11 This example illustrates an embodiment of connector 1100 according to another embodiment described herein. Connector 1100 may have any one or more similar features and / or properties compared to the aforementioned connector 100. Connector 1100 may include a housing 1102, a tail cover 1104, and an intermediate element 1106. Housing 1102 may include any one or more features similar to those previously described with respect to housing 102. For example, housing 1102 may include a latch 1108 extending from the body of housing 1102. In an embodiment, latch 1108 may include first and second portions 1110 and 1112. The first and second portions 1110 and 1112 may define spaces for a ferrule and / or portions of an optical fiber disposed within housing 1102.

[0098] The latch 1108 can be arranged to releasably lock the connector 1100 to a complementary connector assembly. For example, the connector 1100 can be used with an optical fiber port including a mating member (not shown) configured to receive and secure the connector 1100 via one or more locking features 1114 disposed on the latch 1108. In the illustrated embodiment, the locking features (multiple locking features) 1114 include an inclined surface adjacent to the front end 1116 of the latch 1108. As described in more detail herein, the front end 1116 of the latch 1108 can be spaced apart from the housing 1102, thereby allowing the locking features (multiple locking features) 1114 to move relatively closer to and further away from the housing 1102 to lock and unlock the connector 1100 relative to the optical fiber port. When the front end 1116 is positioned relatively closer to the housing 1102, it can be in the unlocked configuration. Conversely, when the front end 1116 is positioned relatively further away from the housing 1102, the connector 1100 can be in the locked configuration.

[0099] The latch 1108 may engage with the housing 1102 at its tail end 1118. In one embodiment, the latch 1108 may be integral with the housing 1102. That is, the latch 1108 may be an integral part of the housing 1102. In another embodiment, the latch 1108 may include one or more discrete components configured to engage with the housing 1102.

[0100] The front end 1116 of the latch 1108 may be spaced apart from the rear end 1118 of the latch 1108 by the middle portion 1120 of the latch 1108. In an embodiment, the middle portion 1120 may comprise the middle part of the latch 1108 between 1% and 99% of the length of the latch 1108 (e.g., between 10% and 90% of the length of the latch 1108 when viewed from a side view).

[0101] The latch 1108 may typically extend from the housing 1102 in a direction toward the front end 1116 of the connector 1100. For example, the tail end 1118 of the latch 1108 may extend from the housing 1102, and at least a portion of the intermediate portion 1120 may be oriented in a direction generally toward the leading edge 1122 of the connector 1100. Therefore, the front end 1116 of the latch 1108 may be located closer to the leading edge 1122 of the connector 1100 than the tail end 1118 of the latch 1108. In an embodiment, the latch 1108 may be cantilevered.

[0102] In one or more embodiments, the latch 1108 may further include an intermediate engagement member 1124, which forms an engagement portion configured to engage with the intermediate element 1106. In embodiments, the intermediate engagement member 1124 may form a releasable engagement portion with the intermediate element 1106. In this way, the intermediate element 1106 can be selectively removed from the latch 1108. In some cases, a discrete intermediate element 1106 allows for easier fabrication of the connector 1100 by permitting more complex connector geometries, which would otherwise be impossible in certain fabrication processes, such as molding. In the illustrated embodiments, the intermediate engagement member 1124 includes a retaining member, such as a lip, configured to retain engagement between the intermediate element 1106 and the intermediate engagement member 1124. In another embodiment, the intermediate element 1106 may be integrally formed with the housing 1102.

[0103] refer to Figure 12 The tail cover 1104 may include a flexible portion 1126 configured to allow buckling of the optical fiber disposed therein. The tail cover 1104 may further include a complementary bonding feature 1128 configured to interact with the bonding feature 1130 of the intermediate element 1106. Figure 13A and Figure 13BEngagement. For example, complementary engagement feature 1128 may include a protrusion or a recess. Complementary engagement feature 1128 may further include a hook, handle, clip, snap, ridge, channel, knurling, or any other structural feature used to facilitate engagement with engagement feature 1130 of intermediate element 1106. In the illustrated embodiment, complementary engagement feature 1128 is disposed adjacent to the leading edge 1132 of tail cover 1104. In another embodiment, complementary engagement feature 1128 may be spaced apart from the leading edge 1132 of tail cover 1104. Complementary engagement feature 1128 may extend toward flexible portion 1126, for example, extending the entire distance between leading edge 1132 and flexible portion 1126. In another embodiment, complementary engagement feature 1128 may be spaced apart from flexible portion 1126 of tail cover 1104.

[0104] Figure 13A and Figure 13B The intermediate element 1106 illustrated may include an engagement feature 1130 having a shape and / or size configured to engage with a complementary engagement feature 1128 of the tailgate 1104. For example, engagement feature 1130 may include an opening extending through the intermediate element 1106 and configured to receive at least a portion of the complementary engagement feature 1128. In some cases, the complementary engagement feature 1128 of the tailgate may be movable relative to engagement feature 1130 of the intermediate element 1106. For example, engagement feature 1130 may define a length longer than the complementary engagement feature 1128. In this way, the intermediate element 1106 can move without exerting a biasing pressure on the complementary engagement feature 1128 of the tailgate 1104.

[0105] In an embodiment, engagement feature 1130 and complementary engagement feature 1128 can be interlocked by interference with one or more features, said one or more features including, for example, channels, grooves, ridges, protrusions, castellations, or other known interference features. Figures 11 to 13B In the illustrated embodiment, the complementary engagement feature 1128 includes a laterally extending guide sized to hold the complementary engagement feature 1128 within the engagement feature 1130 (e.g., an opening) of the intermediate element 1106. Using an interference or another similar type of selectively engaging engagement portion between the engagement feature 1130 and the complementary engagement feature 1128 allows the operator to more easily assemble the tail cover 1104 relative to the housing 1102, while still ensuring that the intermediate element 1106 and the tail cover 1104 remain connected during operational use of the connector 1100.

[0106] The intermediate element 1106 may have a connecting portion 1134 configured to engage with an intermediate engagement member 1124 of the latch 1108. (Reference) Figure 13A The connecting portion 1134 may include a linear portion, such as a rod, extending transversely to the length of the intermediate element 1106. The rod may engage with the housing at two or more locations along the latch 1108. (Reference) Figure 13B The connecting portion 1134 may include a reinforced bent portion extending transversely to the length of the intermediate element 1106. When the intermediate element 1106 is biased, for example, due to a bias force applied to the tail cover 1104, the reinforced bent portion may exhibit reduced buckling, thereby reducing the bias force required to unlock the connector 1100 from the fiber optic port.

[0107] Figures 14 to 16 The example illustrates a connector 1400 according to another embodiment. Connector 1400 may include one or more features of connector 100 and / or connector 1100, such as housing 1402, tail cover 1404, and intermediate element 1406. In the illustrated embodiment, intermediate element 1406 includes engagement feature 1408 having a raised front portion 1410 and a tail portion 1412. The raised tail portion 1412 may provide additional support using a complementary engagement portion 1420 of tail cover 1404 to prevent intermediate element 1406 from being detached from tail cover 1404, particularly during locking connector 1400 to and unlocking connector 1400 from fiber optic ports as described below. In the embodiment, intermediate element 1406 may further include raised sides 1414 and 1416. In the illustrated embodiment, sides 1414 and 1416 define a guide 1418 configured to maintain the connection between the intermediate element 1406 and the complementary engagement portion 1420 of the tail cover 1404.

[0108] Intermediate element 1406 may include reinforced portions, such as regions with increased thickness or size, to reduce material buckling and the bias force required to unlock connector 1400 from the fiber optic port.

[0109] Figures 17 to 20 The example illustrates a connector 1700 according to another embodiment. Connector 1700 may include one or more features of connector 100, connector 1100, and / or connector 1400. In this embodiment, connector 1700 includes a housing 1702, a tail cover 1704, and an intermediate element 1706.

[0110] Intermediate element 1706 may include engagement feature 1708 configured to engage with complementary engagement feature 1710 of tail cover 1704. In the illustrated embodiment, complementary engagement feature 1710 is entirely disposed on tail cover 1704. In another embodiment, at least a portion of complementary engagement feature 1710 may be disposed on housing 1702. In the illustrated embodiment, engagement feature 1708 includes channel 1712 configured to engage with protrusion 1714 of complementary engagement feature 1710. In another embodiment, engagement feature 1708 may include protrusion, and complementary engagement feature 1710 may include channel. In yet another embodiment, intermediate element 1706 and tail cover 1704 may include one or more other shaped features (e.g., clasp, lip, recess, ridge, wavy surface, or crenellated surface) configured to engage together, or other elements configured to engage together.

[0111] In one embodiment, engagement feature 1710 may further include a second engagement portion 1716 configured to engage with a second engagement portion 1718 of tail cover 1704. For example, the second engagement portions 1716 and 1718 may include fingers configured to extend into a recess, such as a clip relative to the recess. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the second engagement portion 1718 of intermediate element 1706 includes fingers, and the second engagement portion 1716 of tail cover 1704 includes a recess configured to engage with the fingers of intermediate element 1706. When joined together, the second engagement portions 1716 and 1718 can be used to create a semi-permanent engagement between tail cover 1704 and intermediate element 1706, thereby preventing undesirable disassembly between them.

[0112] In an embodiment, the second engagement portion 1716 of the tail cover 1704 may be interchangeable with the second engagement portion 1718 of the housing 1702. That is, for example, the second engagement portion 1716 may engage with the second engagement portion 1718 when the tail cover 1704 is oriented relative to the housing 1702 in multiple rotational orientations. For example, the second engagement portion 1716 may include one or more centrally located recesses such that the same finger can be used at the same location in any rotational orientation of the tail cover 1704. Alternatively, the second engagement portion 1716 may include at least two recesses—a first recess configured to engage the finger of the second engagement portion 1718 in a first rotational orientation; and a second recess configured to engage the finger of the second engagement portion 1718 in a second rotational orientation (e.g., 180° opposite to the first rotational orientation). In an embodiment, the recesses (multiple recesses) may include multiple recesses, such as multiple recesses. The number of recesses may correspond to the number of fingers to be engaged with them.

[0113] In an embodiment, the second engagement portions 1716 and 1718 can serve as an attachment scheme to prevent unintended disassembly between the tail cap 1704 and the intermediate element 1706 during operation of the connector 1700. That is, the second engagement portions 1716 and 1718 can maintain operative communication between the channel 1712 of the intermediate element 1706 and the protrusion 1714 of the tail cap 1704 (and vice versa), thereby preventing unintended disassembly between them.

[0114] In one or more embodiments, the tail cover 1704 may be integrally formed with the intermediate element 1706. In embodiments, the tail cover 1704 portion and the intermediate element 1706 portion of the integral tail cover / intermediate element assembly may be formed of different materials. For example, the tail cover portion of the integral assembly may be formed of a relatively flexible material, while the intermediate element portion of the integral assembly may be formed of a relatively less flexible material. The integral assembly may be formed, for example, by overmolding or other multi-material processes (multiple multi-material processes).

[0115] Figure 21 A connector 1700 in a locking configuration is shown, wherein the latch 1720 of the housing 1702 is configured to engage with a mating component on the fiber optic port. Figure 22 The connector 1700 is shown in an unlocked configuration, with a latch 1720 positioned to allow the connector 1700 to pass freely through the fiber optic port. A user can selectively switch the connector 1700 from a locked to an unlocked configuration by applying a biasing force to the tail cover 1704 in a direction generally away from the housing 1702, such as in the direction indicated by arrow 1722.

[0116] In embodiments, housing 1702 and tail cover 1704 may be configured to float relative to each other. When used herein, "floating" refers to the type of connection between housing 1702 and tail cover 1704, where the two components are joined together and can move relative to each other. For example, housing 1702 and tail cover 1704 may follow each other to remain joined together while allowing movement between them along the followed engagement interface. In locking and unlocking configurations, housing 1702 and tail cover 1704 may float relative to each other. In one or more embodiments, housing 1702 and tail cover 1704 may be selectively secured together to prevent relative floating between them. For example, connector 1700 may be included between housing 1702 and tail cover 1704 in an engageable interconnect (not shown) that allows an operator to selectively lock the two components together and prevent movement of tail cover 1704 relative to housing 1702. In this way, an operator can selectively prevent housing 1702 and tail cover 1704 from floating relative to each other.

[0117] In the unlocking configuration, a gap 1724 may be formed between surface 1726 of housing 1702 and surface 1728 of tail cover 1704. In another embodiment, gap 1724 may be formed between adjacent portions of tail cover 1704 or between adjacent portions of housing 1706. That is, for example, surfaces 1726 and 1728 may both be part of tail cover 1704 or both be part of housing 1706. For example, in an embodiment not shown, tail cover 1704 may include a first portion coupled to housing 1702 and a second portion axially movable relative to the first portion. In this way, an operator can open latch 1720 by applying biasing force to the second portion of tail cover 1704.

[0118] As the tail cover 1704 is biased away from the housing 1702, the size of the gap 1724 can increase. When the connector 1700 is in the unlocked configuration, the engagement portion 1730 can remain positioned between the housing 1702 and the tail cover 1704 to prevent axial misalignment between the housing 1702 and the tail cover 1704. The engagement portion 1730 can be received in, for example, a recess in at least one of the housing 1702 and the tail cover 1704 to limit lateral movement between the housing 1702 and the tail cover 1704. In one embodiment, the engagement portion 1730 can be part of the tail cover 1704. In another embodiment, the engagement portion 1730 can be part of the housing 1702. In yet another embodiment, the engagement portion 1730 can be formed at least partially by the housing 1702 and the tail cover 1704. In yet another embodiment, the engagement portion 1730 can include a separate member that floats relative to the housing 1702, the tail cover 1704, or both the housing 1702 and the tail cover 1704. In one or more embodiments, when a biasing force is applied along the tail cover 1704, the engagement portion 1730 or another portion of the connector 1700 can hold the tail cover 1704 within a predetermined distance from the housing 1702. Thus, for example, the tail cover 1704 and the housing 1702 can remain connected and will not separate under the action of a large force (e.g., an accidental impact) applied to the tail cover 1704 in the direction of arrow 1722.

[0119] In locked construction ( Figure 21 The length L1 of connector 1700 in the unlocked configuration (measured between the leading edge 1732 and the trailing edge 1734 of connector 1700) may differ from that in the unlocked configuration. Figure 22The length L2 of connector 1700 in the housing 1702 is measured between the leading edge 1732 and the trailing edge 1734. In embodiments, L2 is greater than L1. For example, L2 can be at least 1.01 times L1, such as at least 1.02 times L1, such as at least 1.03 times L1, such as at least 1.04 times L1, such as at least 1.05 times L1, such as at least 1.075 times L1, such as at least 1.1 times L1. In one or more embodiments, the length variation between L1 and L2 can be adapted by a corresponding increase in the size of the gap 1730 between housing 1702 and tail cover 1704. While nominal material elasticity may cause slight connector elongation during the application of biasing force along tail cover 1704, in some cases, almost all the length variation associated with the application of biasing force along tail cover 1704 can correspond to an increase in the size of the gap 1730. For example, at least 75% of the length change of connector 1700 may correspond to a change in the size of gap 1730; for example, at least 85% of the length change of connector 1700 may correspond to a change in the size of gap 1730; for example, at least 95% of the length change of connector 1700 may correspond to a change in the size of gap 1730; for example, at least 99% of the length change of connector 1700 may correspond to a change in the size of gap 1730; for example, at least 99.9% of the length change of connector 1700 may correspond to a change in the size of gap 1730. In a more specific embodiment, when moving between the locking and unlocking configurations, the length change of connector 1700 may completely correspond to a change in the size of gap 1730.

[0120] In an embodiment, when moving from the locking configuration to the unlocking configuration, the length of connector 1700 may increase by at least 0.1 mm, for example, by at least 0.5 mm, at least 1 mm, at least 1.5 mm, at least 2 mm, at least 3 mm, at least 5 mm, or at least 10 mm.

[0121] When the biasing force applied to the tail cover 1704 is terminated, the connector 1700 can return to the locked position. In one or more embodiments, the connector 1700 can automatically return to the locked position when the biasing force applied to the tail cover 1704 is terminated. For example, in one embodiment, the biasing force transmitted through the tail cover 1704 can be stored, for example, in a latch 1720. When the biasing force is terminated, the stored energy can bias the tail cover 1704 back to a position closer to the housing 1702, for example, biasing it back to the locked position. In other embodiments, the connector 1700 may require manual manipulation to switch the connector 1700 from the unlocked position to the locked position. For example, the connector 1700 may include one or more clips, pawls, latches, or other similar features that selectively prevent the connector 1700 from returning to the locked position. In such embodiments, an operator can selectively manipulate the connector 1700 to release the stored energy or manually move the connector 1700 back to the locked position.

[0122] Now for reference Figures 23 to 27 According to one embodiment, connector 2300 may include an integral tail cover 2302, which typically includes a tail cover 2304 and a handle 2306 configured to be secured together by an engagement portion (e.g., engagement portion 2308). Engagement portion 2308 may include complementary engagement features disposed on tail cover 2304 and handle 2306, such as a protrusion 2310 and an opening 2312 configured to receive the protrusion 2310. In the illustrated embodiment, protrusion 2310 is shown as part of handle 2306 and opening 2312 is shown as part of tail cover 2304. In other embodiments, protrusion 2310 may be part of tail cover 2304, and protrusion 2310 may be part of handle 2306. In further embodiments, complementary engagement features may include other attachment schemes, including, for example, bayonet connections, interference fits, clamps, levers, etc.

[0123] like Figure 23 and Figure 24 As illustrated in the examples, in a particular embodiment, the protrusion 2310 may include a lip 2314 configured to be positioned relative to the surface of the opening 2312 to prevent the protrusion 2310 from being unintentionally pulled out of the opening. The lip 2314 may be provided on a split protrusion 2310 comprising, for example, two or more axially extending portions at least partially spaced apart by a gap. In this way, the split protrusion 2310 can be deformed to allow the lip 2314 to pass through the opening 2312 during installation of the integrated tail cover 2302.

[0124] In one embodiment, the tail cover 2304 and handle 2306 can be installed by translating the tail cover 2304 and handle 2306 together in a direction generally parallel to the engagement portion 2308. In another embodiment, the installation of the tail cover 2304 and handle 2306 may involve rotating and / or pivoting one or both of the tail cover 2304 and handle 2306 in conjunction with the translation between the tail cover 2304 and handle 2306 or in lieu of the translation between the tail cover 2304 and handle 2306.

[0125] refer to Figure 25 In an embodiment, a flange 2316 may replace the lip 2314. The flange 2316 may extend in a direction generally perpendicular to the protrusion 2310 and engage with the opening 2312. In the illustrated embodiment, the opening 2312 has a generally polygonal shape, such as a square shape. The size and / or shape of the opening 2312 may be configured to correspond to the shape of the lip 2314 or the flange 2316. In an embodiment, the opening 2312 may define a tight fit with the lip 2314 or the flange 2316 to prevent undesirable disassembly between them during use.

[0126] refer to Figure 26 and Figure 27 In its assembled state, the integrated tail cover 2302 can function as a single component. When a force is applied along the integrated tail cover 2302 in a direction generally parallel to arrow A, the integrated tail cover 2302 can generate pressure on the latch 2318 of the connector 2300, causing the connector 2300 to transition from a locked configuration to an unlocked configuration. Similarly, when the application of the force ceases, the latch 2318 can return to the locked configuration as described above.

[0127] Connectors according to one or more embodiments described herein facilitate easier installation and removal of fiber optic connectors relative to one or more fiber optic ports. Specifically, installation of the fiber optic connector may involve translating the fiber optic connector into the fiber optic port until one or more latches of the connector engage with mating members of the port, while removal can be performed by pulling the handle of the fiber optic connector and pulling the fiber optic connector from the port. Using a bend latch with locking mechanisms (multiple locking mechanisms) reduces the force required to disengage the connector from the fiber optic port.

[0128] This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, includes the best mode, and also enables any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any apparatus or system and performing any of the included methods. The scope of the invention is defined by the claims, but may include other examples that would occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they contain structural elements that are not indistinguishable from the literal language of the claims, or if they contain equivalent structural elements that are not substantially indistinguishable from the literal language of the claims.

Claims

1. A connector assembly for optically connecting an optical fiber to an optical fiber port, the connector assembly comprising: A housing configured to receive the optical fiber, the housing including latches configured to selectively connect the housing to the optical fiber port; as well as A tail cover having an aperture configured to receive the optical fiber; The displacement of the tail cover relative to the housing reduces the effective length of the latch while increasing its effective height.

2. The connector assembly according to claim 1, further comprising: An intermediate element is connected to the latch and the tail cover, wherein displacing the tail cover relative to the housing causes the intermediate element to bias the latch into an unlocked configuration.

3. The connector assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The intermediate element includes a engagement feature configured to engage with a complementary engagement feature on the tail cover, the complementary engagement feature being configured to transmit forces applied to the tail cover to the latch of the housing.

4. The connector assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the connector assembly is in a locked configuration, the housing and the tail cover are positioned relative to each other in a first relative position, and when the connector assembly is in an unlocked configuration, the housing and the tail cover are positioned relative to each other in a second relative position, wherein the second relative position includes a gap between the housing and the tail cover, and wherein the size of the gap in the second relative position is larger than the gap in the first relative position.

5. The connector assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the connector assembly switches between a locking configuration and an unlocking configuration, the length of the connector assembly, measured between the leading edge of the housing and the trailing edge of the tail cover, changes.

6. The connector assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The latch includes a first radius of curvature in the locking configuration and a second radius of curvature in the unlocking configuration, wherein the first radius of curvature is greater than the second radius of curvature.

7. The connector assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The optical fiber includes a receiving optical fiber and a transmitting optical fiber, and the relative positions of the receiving optical fiber and the transmitting optical fiber with respect to the latch are interchangeable.

8. A method for releasing a connector from an optical fiber port, the method comprising: A biasing force is applied to the tail cover of the connector in a direction away from the housing of the connector. The housing includes a latch configured to selectively connect the connector to the fiber optic port. The biasing force is applied to the tail cover such that the effective length of the latch is reduced. The effective length of the latch is measured by the length between the front end and the tail end of the latch. as well as After the latch is switched to the unlocked configuration, the connector is removed from the fiber optic port.

9. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that, Applying a biasing force to the tail cover causes an intermediate element connecting the tail cover and the latch to move the latch from the locking position to the unlocking position.

10. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that, Applying bias pressure to the tail cover increases the length of the connector.

11. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that, The tail cover and the housing are separated by a gap having a first distance D1 measured when the connector is in a locked configuration and a second distance D2 measured when the connector is in an unlocked configuration, wherein D2 is greater than D1.

12. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that, The housing accommodates a receiving optical fiber and a transmitting optical fiber, and the relative positions of the receiving optical fiber and the transmitting optical fiber with respect to the latch are interchangeable.

13. The method of claim 8, further comprising installing the connector into the fiber optic port or another fiber optic port, wherein the length of the connector remains unchanged during installation into the fiber optic port or another fiber optic port.

14. A connector assembly for optically connecting an optical fiber to an optical fiber port, the connector assembly including latches defining a front end and a tail end, wherein, When the handle is displaced relative to the housing, the effective length of the latch, measured between the front end and the tail end, decreases.

15. The connector assembly according to claim 14, characterized in that, The handle can be selectively removed from the latch.

16. The connector assembly according to claim 14, characterized in that, The handle is integrally formed with the housing.

17. The connector assembly according to any one of claims 14, 15, and 16, characterized in that, The handle extends between a latch engagement end and a pull end, wherein the latch engagement end includes one or more openings configured to mate with the latch.

18. The connector assembly according to claim 17, characterized in that, The handle has a varying profile between the latch engagement end and the pull end.

19. The connector assembly according to claim 14, characterized in that, The handle includes one or more markings configured to indicate which direction the handle is pulled to unlock the optical fiber from the optical fiber port.

20. The connector assembly according to claim 14, characterized in that, When viewed from the side, the latch appears to follow a curve.

21. The connector assembly according to claim 20, characterized in that, The curve is defined as having a radius of curvature of less than 4 inches.

22. The connector assembly according to claim 14, characterized in that, Reducing the effective length of the latch causes the front end of the latch to deflect downward, allowing the locking configuration located at the front end to extend beyond the mating member of the fiber optic port.

23. A connector assembly for optically connecting an optical fiber to an optical fiber port, the connector assembly comprising: A housing configured to receive the optical fiber, the housing including a latch configured to selectively connect the housing to the optical fiber port, wherein the latch defines a front end and a tail end; and A tail cover having a hole configured to receive the optical fiber; When the handle connected to the connector assembly shifts relative to the housing, the effective length of the latch, measured between the front end and the tail end, decreases.

24. The connector assembly according to claim 23, characterized in that, Reducing the effective length of the latch causes the front end of the latch to be biased downward, allowing the locking configuration located at the front end to extend beyond the mating member of the fiber optic port.

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