Micro duplex connector with push-pull polarization mechanism and carrier

Abstract

A new fiber optic connector offers a smaller form factor by including two ferrule assemblies in a housing. The housing accepts a push-pull mechanism that allows for insertion and removal of a carrier and adapter. The push-pull mechanism may also include a flex member to reset the push-pull mechanism. The polarity of the fiber optic connector can also be selected using the push-pull mechanism.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the Chinese invention patent application CN201880082843.7 (International Application No. PCT / US2018 / 066523) filed on December 19, 2018, entitled “Micro duplex connector with push-pull polarity mechanism and carrier”. Background of the Invention

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 607,555, filed December 19, 2017, and Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 634,271, filed February 23, 2018, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] In the Small Form Factor Pluggable (SFP and QSFP) industry, many different ferrules and designs are used. In some applications, MT ferrules are used, while in others, LC styles are used. Each housing of an LC connector uses a single fiber and fiber ferrule. In higher-density applications, LC connectors may not be used because each LC connector takes up space. Therefore, reducing the LC connector's footprint by decreasing the pitch between the fiber ferrules would be beneficial.

[0004] Applicants have a new design for a fiber optic connector that uses an LC fiber ferrule to reduce the overall footprint of the fiber optic connector. Furthermore, an insertion / removal tool has been included to allow for easier insertion and removal of the new fiber optic connector, taking into account the reduced footprint. The fiber optic connector and insertion / removal tool can also provide a method for ensuring the correct polarity of the fiber optic connector and even changing polarity in the field.

[0005] Finally, the insertion / removal tool may include a means for automatically resetting the fiber optic connector after the user has inserted / removed it. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The present invention relates to a push-pull mechanism for use with an optical fiber connector, wherein the optical fiber connector has a housing with a top housing surface and a bottom housing surface, the push-pull mechanism comprising: a main body having a front portion, a middle portion, and a rear portion; a latch body connected to the front portion of the main body, the front portion having at least one window for receiving at least one latch from the latch body through the window, the at least one latch being used to engage an optical fiber connector adapter; and a track portion extending along the side of the latch body and the main body to slidably engage the optical fiber connector housing on one of the top housing surface and the bottom housing surface.

[0007] In some embodiments, the push-pull mechanism includes a flexure member connected to the latch body to bias the main body toward the front end of the fiber optic connector housing.

[0008] In some embodiments, the at least one window comprises two windows and the at least one latch comprises two latches, the second latch extending through the second window and engaging the carrier.

[0009] In some embodiments, the positioning of the track portion within the fiber optic connector housing determines the polarity of the fiber optic connector.

[0010] In another aspect, the present invention relates to a push-pull mechanism for use with a fiber optic connector, the fiber optic connector having a housing with a top housing surface and a bottom housing surface, the push-pull mechanism comprising: a body having a front, a middle portion, and a rear portion; two latches extending outward from the front, a first latch for engaging a fiber optic connector adapter and a second latch for engaging a carrier; a track portion extending along a side of the body to slidably engage the fiber optic connector housing on one of the top housing surface and the bottom housing surface; and a gripping portion on the rear portion to allow a user to push and pull the push-pull mechanism to engage and disengage the fiber optic connector with the carrier and the adapter.

[0011] In some embodiments, the push-pull mechanism further includes a flexure member connected to the latch body to bias the main body toward the front end of the fiber optic connector housing.

[0012] Additional features and advantages of the present invention will be set forth in the detailed description that follows, and in part will be readily understood by those skilled in the art from that description, or may be learned by practicing the invention as described herein, including the following detailed description, claims, and accompanying drawings.

[0013] It should be understood that both the foregoing summary and the following detailed description of the present embodiments of the present invention are intended to provide an overview or framework for understanding the nature and character of the invention as claimed. The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the invention and are incorporated into and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate various embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles and operation of the invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] Figure 1 is a side view of an embodiment of a fiber optic connector having a push-pull mechanism, a crimping body, and a boot according to the present invention;

[0015] Figure 2 yes Figure 1An exploded perspective view of the optical fiber connector;

[0016] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of a portion of a fiber optic connector including a housing with two ferrule assemblies and a spring pusher;

[0017] Figure 3A yes Figure 3 An exploded perspective view of the ferrule assembly and spring;

[0018] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A partial cross-sectional view of the housing with two assembled ferrule assemblies and a spring pusher;

[0019] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 and Figure 3 A perspective view of a housing of an optical fiber connector;

[0020] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 A rear view of the housing in FIG.

[0021] Figure 7 yes Figure 3 A perspective view of the spring pusher in FIG.

[0022] Figure 8 yes Figure 1 A front view of the crimping body in FIG;

[0023] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 A partially cutaway perspective view of the crimping body;

[0024] Figure 10 yes Figure 1 A three-dimensional diagram of the push-pull mechanism;

[0025] Figure 10A yes Figure 10 A perspective view of the bottom side of the push-pull mechanism;

[0026] Figure 11 is with Figure 10 A perspective view of a latch body used with a push-pull mechanism in FIG.

[0027] Figure 12 yes Figure 11 A front view of the latch body;

[0028] Figure 13 yes Figure 11 A side view of the latch body;

[0029] Figure 14 is a perspective view of the push-pull mechanism and the latch body, illustrating how the latch body is attached to the push-pull mechanism;

[0030] Figure 15 yes Figure 14 A partial perspective view of the push-pull mechanism and the latch body;

[0031] Figure 16 yes Figure 14 The push-pull mechanism is attached to Figure 1 A top view of the optical fiber connector;

[0032] Figure 17 yes Figure 16 An enlarged view of the connection between the push-pull mechanism and the housing;

[0033] Figure 18 is a front perspective view of a plurality of optical fiber connectors and a push-pull mechanism installed in a carrier according to one embodiment of the present invention;

[0034] Figure 19 Is installed in Figure 18 A front view of a plurality of optical fiber connectors and a push-pull mechanism in a carrier;

[0035] Figure 20 is to be inserted into one embodiment of the optical fiber connector adapter according to the present invention, mounted on Figure 18 A rear perspective view of a plurality of optical fiber connectors and a push-pull mechanism in a carrier;

[0036] Figure 21 is a cross-sectional view of an assembly of a push-pull mechanism and a latch body and a fiber optic connector, all mounted in a carrier and inserted into an adapter;

[0037] Figure 22 yes Figure 21 a cross-sectional view of a smaller portion of the illustrated assembly showing the push-pull mechanism and latch body mounted in the carrier and fiber optic connector adapter;

[0038] Figure 23 is a front view of a second embodiment of an optical fiber connector having a push-pull mechanism, a crimping body, and a cover according to the present invention;

[0039] Figure 24 is a two-ferrule assembly and Figure 23 A partial cross-sectional view of a housing of a spring pusher of an optical fiber connector;

[0040] Figure 25 yes Figure 23 A perspective view of a housing of an optical fiber connector;

[0041] Figure 26 yes Figure 25 A rear view of the housing in FIG.

[0042] Figure 27According to the present invention and Figure 23 A partial cross-sectional view of a second embodiment of a crimping body shown in FIG;

[0043] Figure 28 According to the present invention and Figure 23 A perspective view of a second embodiment of a push-pull mechanism shown in FIG.

[0044] Figure 29 yes Figure 27 A cross-sectional view of the push-pull mechanism in FIG.

[0045] Figure 30 Is a Figure 23 A cross-sectional view of the optical fiber connector with a push-pull mechanism and a crimping body;

[0046] Figure 31 yes Figure 23 A perspective view of the optical fiber connector and the push-pull mechanism installed in the carrier;

[0047] Figure 32 yes Figure 30 A cross-sectional view of a carrier without an optical fiber connector;

[0048] Figure 33 In one embodiment, a carrier has Figure 23 A cross-sectional view of the optical fiber connector with a push-pull mechanism and a crimping body;

[0049] Figure 34 is a cross-sectional view of a fiber optic connector, wherein the push-pull mechanism and the crimp body in the carrier are inserted into the adapter;

[0050] Figure 35 is a cross-sectional view of the optical fiber connector with the push-pull mechanism and the crimp body in the carrier removed from the adapter;

[0051] Figure 36 is a cross-sectional view of the optical fiber connector with the push-pull mechanism and the crimp body removed from the carrier;

[0052] Figure 37 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a spring pusher according to the present invention;

[0053] Figure 38 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a crimping body according to the present invention;

[0054] Figure 39 is a front view of another embodiment of an optical fiber connector having a push-pull mechanism, a crimping body, and a cover according to the present invention;

[0055] Figure 40 yes Figure 39 The upper right perspective view of the push-pull mechanism;

[0056] Figure 41 yes Figure 39 A bottom perspective view of the push-pull mechanism;

[0057] Figure 42 Is a Figure 39 A right perspective view of the latch body of the flexure mechanism;

[0058] Figure 43 yes Figure 39 a right bottom perspective view of the latch body and flexure mechanism;

[0059] Figure 44 is a right perspective view of a push-pull mechanism having a latch body and a flexure mechanism;

[0060] Figure 45 yes Figure 39 An enlarged cross-sectional view of a push-pull mechanism, a latch body, and a portion of the optical fiber connector;

[0061] Figure 46 yes Figure 41 Push-pull mechanism, latch body and optical fiber connector Figure 47 enlarged cross-sectional views of a portion at different positions;

[0062] Figure 47 is a cross-sectional view of the push-pull mechanism, latch body, and housing; and

[0063] Figure 48 It is a top perspective view of the push-pull mechanism, latch body and housing. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0064] Reference will now be made in detail to the present preferred embodiments of the present invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numerals will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts.

[0065] Applicants point out that the term "front" or "forward" refers to the direction in which the fiber optic connector will meet another fiber optic connector or device, while the term "rear" or "rearward" is used to refer to the direction in which the optical fiber enters the fiber optic ferrule or fiber optic connector. Figure 1 The left side of the page is the portion of the housing 102, and "forward" is away from the left side and toward the left side. The "rear" is the portion of the housing 102 located on the right side of the page and "rearward" is toward the right side.

[0066] exist Figures 1 to 22 FIG. 1 shows an embodiment of an optical fiber connector 100 according to the present invention. Figure 1 and Figure 2, the optical fiber connector 100 may include a housing 102, a latching member (push-pull mechanism) 104, a crimping body 106, a crimping ring and heat shrink tubing 108, and a strain relief boot 110. As discussed in detail below, the housing 102 and its components, the latching member 104, and the crimping body 106 are the focus of the present application. The crimping ring and heat shrink tubing 108, and the strain relief boot 110 are well-known components.

[0067] Steering Figure 3 and Figure 3A Inside the housing 102 are two ferrule assemblies 120, two springs 122, and a spring pusher 124. The two ferrule assemblies 120 each include a fiber ferrule 130 (typically a 1.25 mm LC fiber ferrule), a ferrule retainer 132, and an inlet tube 134. The springs 122 are added later. The ferrule assemblies 120 are preferably pre-assembled and inserted into the housing 102 without any further processing.

[0068] The housing 102 has a body 140 extending between a front end 142 and a rear end 144, and has an opening 146 extending therebetween. The opening 146 of the housing 102 may also have a structure 148 that orients and retains the ferrule assembly 120 within the housing 102. In this case, there is a flat surface 150 that engages a corresponding flat surface 152 on the ferrule retainer 132 to prevent the ferrule assembly 120 from rotating within the housing 102.

[0069] Once the ferrule assembly 120 is positioned within the housing 102, the spring 122 is placed around the lead-in tube 134 and against the rear end 138 of the ferrule holder 132. The spring pusher 124 is then inserted into the opening 146 of the housing 102. The spring pusher 124 has a pair of latches 154 that engage corresponding openings 156 in opposing sides of the body 140 of the housing 102 to retain the spring pusher 124 in the opening 146. The spring pusher 124 has forward-facing surfaces 158 for engaging the rear ends of the springs 122. The forward-facing surfaces 158 generally correspond to the two springs 122, ensuring that the spring pusher 124 remains engaged with the springs 122. This configuration biases the ferrule assembly 120 toward the front end 142 of the housing 102. Although not shown, two optical fibers pass through the spring pusher 124 into the ferrule assembly 120 and into the lead-in tube 134.

[0070] The introduction tube 134 is connected to and extends from the ferrule holder 132. Preferably, the introduction tube 134 is fixed to the ferrule holder 132, such as by adhesive, press fit, etc. The introduction tube 134 also extends beyond the rear end of the ferrule holder 132. Figure 4This allows epoxy or other adhesive to be injected through the lead-in tube 134 into the ferrule assembly 120 to secure the optical fiber therein. With the lead-in tube 134 extending so far rearward, there is no concern that the epoxy or adhesive will interfere with the spring 134, the spring pusher 124, or other structures in the fiber optic connector 100. Typically, the adhesive is cured by leaving the lead-in tube bare before adding any additional components.

[0071] The housing 102 may also have markings 136 indicating the polarity of the fiber optic connector 100, see Figure 5 Depending on the application, one of the ferrule assemblies 120 can be the receive side or the transmit side, while the other ferrule assembly 120 is the other side. It is important for the user or technician to know which ferrule assembly 120 is which side. The marking 136 (in this case, a recess) makes the orientation or polarity of the fiber optic connector 100 clearly visible. Other types of markings can be used and still fall within the scope of the present invention.

[0072] The exterior of the housing 102 has many features integral to its purpose, see Figure 5 and Figure 6 . First, the top surface 160 and the bottom surface 162. The top surface 160 and the bottom surface 162 are preferably identical, except for the indicia 1136, as one of the two surfaces 160, 162 does not have indicia. Extending from the rear end 144 toward the front end 142 of the housing 140 on the top surface 160 and the bottom surface 162 is a track receiving portion 164. As will be discussed in more detail below, the track receiving portion 164 will stop just before the front end 142, thereby creating a stop surface 166. The latch assembly (push-pull mechanism) 104 will utilize the stop surface 166 to insert the fiber optic connector 100 into various configurations.

[0073] The rail receiving portion 164 has a central portion 168 and then two lobe sections 170, one lobe on each side of the central portion 168. Figure 6 As shown, the rail receiving portion 164 looks like part of the outline of a dog bone. This configuration matches the configuration of the bottom surface of the latch component (push-pull mechanism) 104 to form a sliding dovetail configuration. Other configurations are also possible, such as, for example, the second version shown below - a cap with an undercut (basically an umbrella or T-shaped configuration), see Figure 26 .

[0074] The next feature of the housing 102 and the body 140 is the two side surfaces 180. The two side surfaces 180 are side surfaces that are opposite to each other and are separated by the top surface 160 and the bottom surface 162. In particular, referring to Figure 6, each side surface 180 is divided into three sections. The first section is a longitudinal center section 182 extending in a first plane A. The second section is a longitudinal top section 184 extending in a second plane B, with the first plane A being parallel to and offset from the second plane B. The third section is a longitudinal bottom section 186 extending in the second plane B. The longitudinal top section 184 is preferably separated from the longitudinal center section 182 by a shoulder 188. The shoulder 188 preferably has a surface that is in plane C and perpendicular to both planes A and B. Similarly, the longitudinal bottom section 186 is preferably separated from the longitudinal center section 182 by a shoulder 190. The shoulder 190 preferably has a surface that is in plane D and perpendicular to both planes A and B.

[0075] The function of the two longitudinal top portions 184 and the two longitudinal bottom portions 186 is to align the fiber optic connector 100 horizontally in various structures (e.g., carriers and adapters). On the other hand, the shoulders 188, 190 align the fiber optic connector 100 vertically. These will be discussed in more detail below. See also Figure 19 and Figure 20 .

[0076] Reference Figure 5 There are also two recesses 192 in the longitudinal top 184 on either side of the body and near the rear end 144. The recesses 192 form forward-facing surfaces 194 that are used by two housing latches in the latch assembly (push-pull mechanism) 104. As described later, the latch assembly (push-pull mechanism) 104 engages the forward-facing surfaces 194 when the fiber optic connector 100 is removed.

[0077] Returning to the crimping body 106, it Figure 1 In and still Figure 8 and Figure 914. The crimp body 106 has a front portion 200 that is designed to interact and connect with the spring pusher 124 when installed and is also disposed within the opening 146 of the housing 102. The crimp body 106 has a rear portion 202 that extends behind the housing 102 and provides an outer surface 204 for receiving a crimping tape (e.g., a crimp ring and heat shrink tubing 108) therearound. An opening 210 extends from the front end 206 to the rear end 208. The opening 210 at the front portion 200 receives at least a portion of each lead-in tube 134. The spring pusher 124 has two tabs 212 on opposite sides thereof that extend in a rearward direction within the opening 210 to engage with an opening 214 in a side wall 216 of the crimp body 106. The front end 206 also has a forward-facing surface 218 that is complementary to the rear portion of the spring pusher and, together with the tab 212, holds the crimp body 106 securely in place to the fiber optic connector 100. Although the crimp body 106 is shown attached to the spring pusher 124, the crimp body 106 may alternatively be attached to the housing 102.

[0078] The opening 210 in the crimp body 106 behind the lead-in tube provides a transition region 220 for the optical fibers secured in the fiber ferrule 130. Because the crimp body 106 has a single opening 222 at its rear end, the optical fibers need to be able to exit the single opening 222 in a smooth manner so that they do not bend beyond their bend radius, thereby damaging or breaking the fibers. The transition region 220 provides this function.

[0079] The crimp body 106 also has a top surface 230 and a bottom surface 232. The top surface 230 and the bottom surface 232 can be configured with a central portion 234 similar to the central portion 168 of the track receiving portion 164 above. However, the crimp body 106 has two outer groove portions 236 that open to the space above the crimp body 106. The central portion 234 and the two outer groove portions 236 serve as alignment features for the track receiving portion 164. As discussed below, by using the central portion 234 and the two outer groove portions 236 on the crimp body 106, the latch component (push-pull mechanism) 104 can be better aligned with the track receiving portion 164.

[0080] While the crimp body 106 is shown as a single, unitary body (ie, molded from one material at a time), it may also be molded in two pieces and then secured to one another.

[0081] The latch component (push-pull mechanism) 104 is Figures 10 to 17 The latch component (push-pull mechanism) 104 has a main body 250 and a latch body 252 attached to the main body 250. Figure 10 and Figures 11 to 13The body 250 has a front portion 254, a middle portion 256, and a rear portion 258. Generally, the front portion 254 is where the latch body 252 is attached to the body 250 and provides for latching the fiber optic connector 100 to the adapter and carrier. The middle portion 256 provides for latching the latch member (push-pull mechanism) 104 to the housing 102. The rear portion 258 has a gripping portion 260 to allow a user to push and pull the latch member (push-pull mechanism) 104 to engage and disengage the fiber optic connector 100 and the latch member (push-pull mechanism) 104 with the adapter and / or carrier.

[0082] The front portion 254 is divided into a first front portion 262 and a second front portion 264. Both the first front portion 262 and the second front portion 264 have windows 266, 268 to receive the latch from the latch body therethrough, respectively. The bottom side of the first portion 262 has grooves 270 on either side to receive attachment members 272, 274 from the latch body 252 (see FIG. Figure 10A and Figure 11 ) to secure the latch body 252 to the main body 250. The attachment members 272, 274 (and therefore the latch body 252) can slide within the groove 270 to allow the optical fiber connector 100 to be latched and unlocked. The groove 270 should extend the length of the first portion 254.

[0083] The second front portion 264 has an upper surface 276 that is higher than the upper surface 278 of the first front portion 262. This allows the carrier and the adapter to be latched with the same device, as noted in more detail below. On the bottom side 280 of the second front portion 264 is a track portion 282 that includes two extensions 284, 286 joined by a central portion 288, all having a complementary configuration to the track receiving portion 164 of the housing 102. See Figure 10A The latch body 252 also has the same track portion configuration on its bottom (central portion 290 and two extensions 292, 294). This allows the main body 250 and latch body 252 to be slidably attached to the track receiving portion 164 of the housing 102. When the latch body 252 is inserted into the first front portion 262, the front surface 296 of the track portion 282 provides a push surface by which the main body 250 can push the latch body 252 in the track receiving portion 164 of the housing 102. See also Figure 21 The front surface 300 of the latch body 252 also provides a push surface for abutting the stop surface 166 of the housing 102. This allows a user to apply a force to the latch component (push-pull mechanism) 104, which is transmitted through the main body 250 to the latch body 252 and the housing 102 to insert the fiber optic connector 100 into a carrier and / or adapter.

[0084] return Figures 11 to 13, the latch body 252 has two latches, namely the adapter latch 310 and the carrier latch 312. The latch body may have only one of the latches, depending on its use and the needs of the user. The adapter latch 310 extends from the front of the latch body 252 and protrudes through the window 266 of the main body 250. The carrier latch 312 also extends from the latch body 252 from its rear and protrudes through the window 268 of the main body 250. Figure 13 It will be appreciated that the adapter latch 310 is not raised as high as the carrier latch 312 (plane E relative to plane F) such that the adapter latch 310 will not engage the carrier when the fiber optic connector 100 is inserted into or removed from the carrier.

[0085] Each latch, namely the adapter latch 310 and the carrier latch 312, has a proximal end 314, 316 to engage the adapter and the carrier, respectively. Each proximal end 314, 316 has a rearwardly facing surface 314a, 316a and an upwardly facing surface 314b, 316b. The proximal ends 314, 316 will engage an opening in the adapter or the carrier. See, e.g. Figure 21 .

[0086] As described above, the latch assembly (push-pull mechanism) 104 is removably connected to the track receiving portion 164 of the housing 102. However, the connection described so far does not prevent the latch assembly (push-pull mechanism) 104 from being removed toward the rear of the housing 102, for example, by pulling the grip portion 260 rearward. However, in the middle portion 256, there are two latches 320 that extend inwardly from the latch assembly (push-pull mechanism) 104 and will move along the rear of the longitudinal top 184 on each side of the housing 102. See Figure 1 、 Figure 18 and 20 In particular, the housing 102 has a recessed portion 192 for the latch 320, and when the latch member (push-pull mechanism) 104 is pulled rearward, the housing will engage the forward facing surface 194. As will now be described, this will allow the user to remove the fiber optic connector 100 from the carrier and / or adapter. It should be noted that the latch 320 is a cantilever latch, and therefore the push area 322 (see Figure 16 and Figure 17 ) will cause the latch to move away from the housing 102 and release the housing 102 from the latch component (push-pull mechanism) 104.

[0087] Steering Figure 1 、 Figure 14 、 Figure 15 and Figure 18 , the latch member (push-pull mechanism) 104 is connected to the optical fiber connector 100. The optical fiber connector 100 can be inserted into the carrier 350 ( Figure 18 ) and / or adapter 400( Figure 20 ). Carrier 350 provides a convenient way for the user to insert and remove four fiber optic connectors 100 (there can be more or fewer connectors, but typically in groups of two) from an adapter (or other telecommunications structure), rather than inserting and removing one fiber optic connector at a time. This saves time and money and also helps prevent fiber optic connectors from getting stuck or breaking.

[0088] The carrier 350 has features that enable the carrier 350 to be used to correctly orient the fiber optic connectors 100 (polarity) and also to align the fiber optic connectors 100 with each other for insertion into the adapter. The carrier 350 has a top 352 and a bottom 354, and the top 352 has a cutout 356 for each fiber optic connector 100 or latch member (push-pull mechanism) 104. If a fiber optic connector 100 is inserted into the carrier 350 incorrectly (with the wrong polarity), the fiber optic connector 100 will not be properly seated in the carrier 350. The cutout 356 also has a rearward-facing surface 358 that is used to remove all of the fiber optic connectors 100 from the adapter, as discussed in more detail below.

[0089] The carrier 350 has an opening 360 extending between a front end 362 and a rear end 364. Inside the opening 360 are protrusions for accurately orienting the fiber optic connector 100 in the carrier 350. Extending from the top 352 into the opening 360 is a top extension 366a. Along the top and side corners of the carrier 350 are partial top extensions 366b that perform the same function as the top extensions 366a. Similarly, there are bottom extensions 368a and partial bottom extensions 368b. Figure 19 As best shown in FIG, top extension 366a is longer and extends further downward into opening 360 than bottom extension 368a, which extends upward into opening 360. The distance between the corresponding top extension 366a and bottom extension 368a provides vertical alignment of fiber optic connector 100 within carrier 350. Figure 6 Shoulders 188 and 190, and more particularly the distance therebetween and their vertical positions along side 180 of housing 102, orient fiber optic connector 100 vertically within carrier 350. Figure 19 As vaguely shown, if one of the fiber optic connectors 100 is not oriented correctly, the longitudinal top 184 and the two longitudinal bottoms 186 will be in the incorrect position and the latch member (push-pull mechanism) 104 will strike the carrier and prevent the fiber optic connector 100 from being fully inserted.

[0090] The horizontal alignment of the fiber optic connector 100 is also controlled by the top extension 366a and the bottom extension 370. However, it is the longitudinal top 184 and the two longitudinal bottoms 186 that join the top extension 366a and the bottom extension 370 (the distance therebetween) that are controlled. Figure 19 It also illustrates that the space between the fiber optic connectors 100 is very limited, and allows for a higher density of fiber optic connectors 100 .

[0091] Once the fiber optic connector 100 with the latch assembly (push-pull mechanism) 104 is properly inserted into the carrier 350, the latch stop 380 on the latch assembly (push-pull mechanism) 104 will engage the rearward-facing surface 358 of the carrier 350. The carrier 350 is captured between the latch stop 380 and the rearward-facing surface 316a of the carrier latch 312. This will expose enough of the latch assembly (push-pull mechanism) 104, and in particular the first front portion 262. At the same time, the top 352 of the carrier 350 has a window 370 to receive the carrier latch 312 from each latch body 252, and in particular the proximal end 316. See Figure 21 and Figure 22 However, as the fiber optic connector 100 enters and passes through the carrier 350 , the adapter latch 310 is too short to engage the carrier 350 .

[0092] With the carrier latch 312 now positioned in the window 370 and the engagement surface 372 created by the window 370, the carrier 350 or latch component (push-pull mechanism) 104 can be used to insert the fiber optic connector 100 into the adapter 400. Figure 21 and Figure 22 As clearly shown, if the carrier 350 is used to insert the fiber optic connector 100 (in Figure 20 350), the carrier 350 pushes the carrier latch 312, which is located on the latch body 252 and has the front surface 300 of the latch body 252, and then pushes against the stop surface 166 of the housing 102 to secure the group of fiber optic connectors 100. Therefore, all fiber optic connectors 100 will be pushed into the adapter at the same time. Alternatively, the latch component (push-pull mechanism) 104 can also be used to insert the fiber optic connectors.

[0093] As the set of fiber optic connectors 100 are inserted into the adapter 400, each adapter latch 310 pops into a corresponding window 402. With the adapter latches 310 now positioned in the windows 402 and the engagement surfaces 404 created by the windows 402, the set of fiber optic connectors 100 is secured within the adapter 400. The adapter 400 has identical protrusions to precisely orient the fiber optic connectors 100 within the adapter 400. Therefore, applicants will not repeat the identical structure here.

[0094] The fiber optic connectors 100 can be removed from the adapter 400 one at a time or all at once along with the carrier 350. To remove one fiber optic connector 100 from the adapter 400 (if only in the adapter) or from both the adapter 400 and the carrier 350, simply pull the gripping portion 260 of the latch assembly (push-pull mechanism) 104. As the latch assembly (push-pull mechanism) 104 is pulled rearward, it moves rearward relative to the latch body 252 (because the adapter latch 310 and the carrier latch 312 abut against the engagement surfaces 372 and 404, respectively), and the portion forward of the windows 266 and 268 moves past the adapter latch 310 and the carrier latch 312, pushing them downward and out of the windows 370 and 402. Continuing to pull the gripping portion 260 of the latch assembly (push-pull mechanism) 104 causes the latch 320 to engage the forward-facing surface 194 of the housing 102 and the entire fiber optic connector can be removed.

[0095] If the group of fiber optic connectors 100 is to be removed together and only from the adapter 400, the user will pull on the carrier 350 (while the adapter 400 remains fixed relative to the carrier). The carrier 350, and in particular the rearward-facing surface 358, will engage the latch stop 380 on the latch component (push-pull mechanism) 104 of each fiber optic connector 100. As described above, the portion forward of the windows 266, 268 will move past the adapter latch 310 (and the carrier latch 312, but the carrier 350 will retain the fiber optic connectors 100), pushing them downward and out of the windows 370, 402. Continuing to pull on the carrier causes the latch 320 to engage the forward-facing surface 194 of the housing 102, and all of the group of fiber optic connectors 100 can be removed from the adapter 400. Fiber optic connectors 100 can be inserted into and removed from the same adapter 400 without the carrier 350. A partially occupied carrier in an adapter allows for the removal of a single fiber optic connector for installation, while the carrier remains connected to the remaining fiber optic connectors in the adapter. When the last fiber optic connector is removed from the adapter, the fiber optic connector takes the carrier with it.

[0096] exist Figures 23 to 36 FIG. 2 shows a second embodiment of a fiber optic connector 1100 according to the present invention. Figure 23 The optical fiber connector 1100 may include a housing 1102, a latching member (push-pull mechanism) 1104, and a crimping body 1106. As discussed in more detail below, the focus here is on the housing 1102 and its components, the latching member 1104, and the crimping body 1106. It is also preferred to have a crimping ring, a heat shrink tubing, and a strain relief boot, as in the previous embodiments, but since the crimping ring, the heat shrink tubing, and the strain relief boot are well-known components, they are omitted here for clarity.

[0097] Steering Figure 24 Inside the housing 1102 are two ferrule assemblies 1120 (which can be identical to ferrule assembly 120), two springs 1122, and a spring pusher 1124. The two ferrule assemblies 1120 each include a fiber ferrule 1130 (approximately a 1.25 mm LC fiber ferrule), a ferrule retainer 1132, and an inlet tube 1134. The springs 1122 are added later. The ferrule assemblies 1120 are preferably preassembled and can be inserted into the housing 1102 without any further processing.

[0098] The housing 1102 has a body 1140 extending between a front end 1142 and a rear end 1144, and has an opening 1146 extending therebetween. The opening 1146 of the housing 1102 may also have a structure 1148 that orients and retains the ferrule assembly 1120 within the housing 1102. In this case, there is a flat surface 1150 that engages a corresponding flat surface 1152 on the ferrule retainer 1132 to prevent the ferrule assembly 1120 from rotating within the housing 1102.

[0099] Once the ferrule assembly 1120 is positioned within the housing 1102, the spring 1122 is placed around the lead-in tube 1134 and against the rear end 1138 of the ferrule retainer 1132. The spring pusher 1124 is then inserted into the opening 1146 of the housing 1102. The spring pusher 1124 has a pair of latches 1154 that engage corresponding openings 1156 in opposing sides of the body 1140 of the housing 1102 to retain the spring pusher 1124 in the opening 1146. The spring pusher 1124 has forward-facing surfaces 1158 to engage the rear ends of the springs 1122. The forward-facing surfaces 1158 generally correspond to the two springs 1122 to ensure that the spring pusher 1124 remains engaged with the springs 1122. This configuration biases the ferrule assembly 1120 toward the front end 1142 of the housing 1102. Although not shown, the two optical fibers enter the ferrule assembly 1120 through the spring pusher 1124 and into the introduction tube 1124.

[0100] The introduction tube 1134 is connected to the ferrule holder 132 and extends from it. Preferably, the introduction tube 1134 is fixed to the ferrule holder 1132, such as by adhesive, press fit. The introduction tube 1134 also extends beyond the rear end of the ferrule holder 132 and beyond the spring 1122 and spring pusher 1124. Figure 24This allows epoxy or other adhesive to be injected through the lead-in tube 1134 into the ferrule assembly 1120 to secure the optical fiber therein. With the lead-in tube 1134 extending so far rearward, there is no concern that the epoxy or adhesive will interfere with the spring 1122, the spring pusher 1124, or other structures in the optical fiber connector 100.

[0101] As with the previous embodiments, the housing 1102 may also have markings indicating the polarity of the fiber optic connector 1100. Similarly, there may be depressions or other markings on the housing 1102.

[0102] The exterior of the housing 1102 has many features integral to its purpose, see Figure 25 and Figure 26 . First are the top surface 1160 and the bottom surface 1162. The top surface 1160 and the bottom surface 1162 are preferably identical, but may have some differences and still fall within the scope of the present invention. Extending from the rear end 1144 toward the front end 1142 of the housing 11020 on both the top surface 1160 and the bottom surface 1162 is a track receiving portion 1164. As will be discussed in more detail below, the track receiving portion 1164 will stop before the front end 1142, so it will create a stop surface 1166. The latch component (push-pull mechanism) 1104 will utilize the stop surface 1166 to insert the fiber optic connector 1100 into various configurations.

[0103] The rail receiving portion 1164 has a central portion 1168 and two lobe sections 1170, one lobe on each side of the central portion 1168. Figure 26 As shown, the rail receiving portion 1164 has a T-shaped configuration. This configuration matches the configuration of the bottom surface of the latch component (push-pull mechanism) 1104 to form a sliding configuration. As mentioned above, other configurations are also possible.

[0104] The next feature of the housing 1102 and the body 1140 is the two side surfaces 1180. The two side surfaces 1180 are side surfaces that are opposite to each other and are separated by the top surface 1160 and the bottom surface 1162. In particular, referring to Figure 26, each of the side surfaces 1180 is divided into at least three sections. The first section is a longitudinal central section 1182 extending in a first plane G. The second section is a longitudinal top section 1184 extending in a second plane H, with the first plane G being parallel to and offset from the second plane H. The third section 1184 is a longitudinal bottom section 1186 extending in the second plane H. The longitudinal top section 1184 is preferably separated from the longitudinal central section 1182 by a shoulder 1188. The shoulder 1188 preferably has a surface that is in plane I and perpendicular to both planes G and H. Similarly, the longitudinal bottom section 1186 is preferably separated from the longitudinal central section 1182 by a shoulder 1190. The shoulder 1190 preferably has a surface that is in plane J and perpendicular to both planes G and H. There is also an inclined wall 1196 between the bottom of the central section 1168 and the shoulder 1188. A portion of the latch component (push-pull mechanism) 1104 uses this inclined wall 1196 as a reference surface when moving along the housing 1102. The angled wall 1196 terminates in a stop surface 1166 where the latch member (push-pull mechanism) 1104 engages the stop surface 1166 to move the fiber optic connector 1100 as described below.

[0105] The two longitudinal top portions 1184 and the two longitudinal bottom portions 1186 serve to align the fiber optic connector 1100 horizontally in various structures (e.g., carriers and adapters). On the other hand, the shoulders 1188, 1190 align the fiber optic connector 1100 vertically, as discussed in detail above. Therefore, this discussion is not included here.

[0106] Also on the top surface 1160 and the bottom surface 1162 are latches 1172 having engagement surfaces 1174 and release ramps 1176. The latches 1172 are cantilevered latches that act in conjunction with the latch assembly (push-pull mechanism) 1104 to engage and disengage the adapter. Finally, on the top surface 1160 and the bottom surface 1162 are openings 1192 in the rail receiving portion 1164 for an extension from the latch assembly (push-pull mechanism) 1104. As described in more detail below, the extension from the latch assembly (push-pull mechanism) 1104 engages the forward facing surface 1194 to remove the fiber optic connector 1100 from the adapter and / or carrier. See Figure 24 .

[0107] The crimp body 1106 has a front portion 1200 that is designed to interact with and connect to the spring pusher 1124 and is also disposed within the opening 1146 of the housing 1102 when installed, typically after the epoxy used to secure the optical fiber in the ferrule 1130 has cured. The crimp body 1106 has a rear portion 1202 that extends behind the housing 1102 and provides an outer surface 1204 for receiving crimp tape (e.g., crimp rings and heat shrink tubing) therearound. Extending from the front end 1206 to the rear end 1208 is an opening 1210. The opening 1210 at the front portion 1200 receives at least a portion of each lead-in tube 1134. The spring pusher 1124 has two tabs 1212 ( Figure 24 ) and extends in a rearward direction within the opening 1210 to engage with an opening 1214 in a side wall 1216 of the crimp body 1106. The front end 1206 also has a forward-facing surface 1218 that is complementary to the rear of the spring pusher 1124 and that, together with the tab 1212, holds the crimp body 1106 securely fixed to the fiber optic connector 1100.

[0108] The opening 1210 in the crimp body 1106, behind the lead-in tube, provides a transition region 1220 for the optical fibers secured in the fiber ferrule 1130. Because the crimp body 1106 has a single opening 1222 at its rear end, the optical fibers need to be able to exit that single opening 1222 in a smooth manner so that they do not bend beyond their bend radius, thereby damaging or breaking the fibers. The transition region 1220 provides this function.

[0109] The crimp body 1106 also has a top surface 1230 and a bottom surface 1232. The top surface 1230 and the bottom surface 1232 can be configured with a region 1234 that is complementary to the central portion 1168 and the two lobed corner sections 1170 of the track receiving portion 1164 described above. The region 1234 serves as an alignment feature for the track receiving portion 1164. As discussed further below, by utilizing the region 1234 on the crimp body 1106, the latch component (push-pull mechanism) 1104 can be better aligned with the track receiving portion 1164.

[0110] While the crimp body 1106 is shown as a single, unitary body (ie, molded from one material at a time), it can also be molded in two pieces and then secured to one another.

[0111] Latch component (push-pull mechanism) 1104 Figures 28 to 2912 is shown in more detail in FIG. The latch assembly (push-pull mechanism) 1104 has a body 1250 having a front portion 1254, a middle portion 1256, and a rear portion 1258. Generally, the front portion 1254 is where the latch assembly 1104 engages with the fiber optic connector 1100 and controls the connection with the adapter and carrier. The middle portion 1256 generally provides for latching the latch assembly (push-pull mechanism) 1104 to the carrier. The rear portion 1258 has a gripping portion 1260 to allow a user to push and pull the latch assembly (push-pull mechanism) 1104 to engage and disengage the fiber optic connector 1100 (push-pull mechanism) 1104 with the adapter and / or carrier.

[0112] When the latch component (push-pull mechanism) 1104 is mounted on the housing 1102, the front portion 1254 has two rails 1262 to engage the stop surface 1166 to push the optical fiber connector 1100. Pushing the latch component (push-pull mechanism) 1104 transfers force to the rails 1262. There is a space 1264 between the rails 1262 to allow the engagement surface 1174 of the latch 1172 to pass therebetween. Then, the front portion 1254 that moves rearward has an opening 1268. The opening 1268 receives the release ramp 1176. The front portion of the opening 1268 has a chamfered surface 1270 to engage the chamfered surface of the release ramp 1176. See also Figure 28 and Figure 29 Behind the opening 1268 is a downward extension 1272 that fits within the opening 1192 in the rail receiving portion 1164 and engages the forward facing surface 1194 when the fiber optic connector 1100 is removed as described below. Figure 24 .

[0113] The next feature of the latch assembly (push-pull mechanism) 1104 is in the middle portion 1256 and is an opening 1274 that receives a portion of a carrier for multiple fiber optic connectors 1100. As mentioned above, sometimes it is advantageous for multiple fiber optic connectors 1100 to be linked to each other. This opening 1274, along with another embodiment of the carrier 1350, allows for insertion / removal of the fiber optic connectors 1100 from the adapter 1400. The opening 1274 is partially formed by a chamfered front surface 1276 and a generally flat rear surface 1278.

[0114] The rear portion 1258 of the latch component (push-pull mechanism) 1104 has a gripping portion 1260. Finally, a release portion 1280 is provided on the side of the latch component (push-pull mechanism) 1104. The release portion 1280 is an opening that provides access to the downward extension 1272 that fits within the opening 1192. As described above, the downward extension 1272 holds the latch component (push-pull mechanism) 1104 in place with the housing 1102. To disengage the latch component (push-pull mechanism) 1104 from the housing 1102, a pin or other small tool can be inserted into the release portion 1280, causing the downward extension 1272 to deflect upward and move out of the opening 1192. The latch component (push-pull mechanism) 1104 can now be moved rearward from the housing 1102.

[0115] Figure 30 The fiber optic connector 1100 is shown fully assembled and ready for use. The major components of the fiber optic connector 1100 are labeled and the latching member (push-pull mechanism) 1104 is in place to insert the fiber optic connector 1100 into the carrier 1350 and / or adapter 1400. It can be seen that the latching member (push-pull mechanism) 1104 is fully engaged and the two rails 1262 have engaged the stop surfaces 1166.

[0116] Steering Figure 30 、 Figure 31 、 Figure 33 and Figure 36 , the optical fiber connector can be inserted into the carrier 1350 ( Figure 30 and Figure 31 ) and / or adapter 1400( Figure 34 ). Carrier 1350 provides a convenient way for the user to insert and remove four fiber optic connectors 1100 (there can be more or fewer connectors, but typically in groups of two) from an adapter (or other telecommunications structure), rather than one at a time. This saves time and money and also helps prevent the fiber optic connectors from getting stuck or breaking.

[0117] The carrier 1350 has features that enable the carrier 1350 to be used to correctly orient the fiber optic connectors 1100 (polarity) and also to align the fiber optic connectors with each other for insertion into the adapter. The carrier 1350 has a top 1352 and a bottom 1354, and the top 1352 has a cutout 1356 for each fiber optic connector 1100 or latch member (push-pull mechanism) 1104. Each cutout 1356 has a cantilevered latch 1358 that protrudes into an opening 1360 of the carrier 1350. If the fiber optic connector 1100 is not inserted correctly (wrong polarity) into the carrier 1350, the fiber optic connector 1100 will not be properly seated in the carrier 1350. The combination of the latch 1358 and the bottom 1354 prevents the fiber optic connector 1100 from being inserted incorrectly. The cantilevered latch 1358 has a protrusion 1362 that extends into the opening 1360 ( Figure 32 ) and is located in opening 1274 when the fiber optic connector is inserted. A first surface 1364 of protrusion 1362 is beveled and engages a beveled front surface 1276 of latch component (push-pull mechanism) 1104 during removal of fiber optic connector 1100. Forward-facing surface 1368 is configured to engage a rear surface of housing 1102 when carrier 1350 is used to insert fiber optic connector 1100 into adapter 1400. Finally, rearward-facing surface 1370 is configured to engage a generally flat rear surface 1278 of opening 1274 when carrier 1350 is used to remove fiber optic connector 1100 from adapter 1400.

[0118] The optical fiber connector 1100 is installed in the carrier 1350. Figure 33 13. Fiber optic connector 1100 is inserted into carrier 1350 using latch assembly (push-pull mechanism) 1104, as two rails 1262 engage stop surfaces 1166, pushing fiber optic connector 1100 through carrier 1350. Release ramp 1176 is exposed in opening 1268 of front portion 1254. Similarly, protrusion 1362 on latch 1358 is disposed in opening 1274 of latch assembly (push-pull mechanism) 1104. This method is repeated for each fiber optic connector 1100 to be inserted into carrier 1350.

[0119] Fiber optic connector 1100 can be inserted into adapter 1400, such as Figure 34As shown in FIG. 1 , fiber optic connectors 1100 can be inserted into adapter 1400 one at a time or in multiples using carrier 1350. Once the optical fibers of the connector are aligned with adapter 1400, the user can grasp carrier 1350 to push fiber optic connector 1100 into opening 1402 of adapter 1400. Forward-facing surface 1368 on protrusion 1362 engages the rear surface of housing 1102, and in particular, the rear surface of central portion 1168 of rail-receiving portion 1164. This causes latch 1172, having engagement surface 1174, to deflect downward upon entry into adapter 1400, and upon reaching window 1404, latch 1172 returns and positions itself within window 1404.

[0120] Reference Figure 35 Removal of fiber optic connector 1100 is explained. Fiber optic connector 1100 can be removed from adapter 1400 using carrier 1354 or latching member (push-pull mechanism) 1104. If a user intends to use latching member (push-pull mechanism) 1104, the user will pull on gripping portion 1260. This will cause chamfered surface 1270 to engage release ramp 1176. This will bias latch 1172 downward, releasing engagement surface 1174 from adapter window 1402. As rearward-facing surface 1272 engages surface 1194 in opening 1192, further pulling on latching member (push-pull mechanism) 1104 will pull fiber optic connector 1100 out of adapter 1400.

[0121] If the carrier 1350 is to be used, the carrier 1350 is moved rearward relative to the latch member (push-pull mechanism) 1104. The rearward surface 1370 of the carrier 1350 engages the generally flat rear surface 1278 of the opening 1274, thereby engaging the chamfered surface 1270 with the release ramp 1176. This releases all of the fiber optic connectors 1100 from the adapter 1400.

[0122] Finally, refer to Figure 36 , the fiber optic connector 1100 can be removed from the carrier 1350. While holding the carrier 1350 stable, the user can pull the latch component (push-pull mechanism) 1104, which causes the chamfered surface 1276 in the opening 1274 to engage the first surface 1364 of the protrusion 1362 of the carrier 1350. This will cause the cantilevered latch 1358 to deflect upward and out of the way, allowing the latch component (push-pull mechanism) 1104 to be removed from the fiber optic connector.

[0123] exist Figure 37An alternative spring pusher 1724 is shown in FIG. The spring pusher 1724 has a pair of detents 1726 that frictionally engage the inner surface of the housing. This eliminates the need for any openings in the housing because there are no latches to secure. The spring pusher 1724 includes an extension 1728 having opposing sides 1730 that are semicircular and provide more support for the spring 122. The extension 1728 terminates in two circular surfaces 1732 that engage the ends of the spring 122. There is an opening 1734 in the middle of the circular surfaces 1732 to receive an inlet tube that extends out the back of the spring pusher 1724. The back end of the spring pusher 1724 can also have a different connection system for a crimping strap.

[0124] exist Figure 38 An alternative crimping strip 1706 is shown in FIG. The crimping strip 1706 has two protrusions 1708 and two T-shaped extensions 1710 pointing forward. The crimping strip 1706 provides the same functionality as the crimping strips in the two previous embodiments. Although not shown, the top surface 1712 and the bottom surface 1714 can be configured to aid in alignment of the push-pull mechanism. The crimping strip 1706 also provides an internal space that allows the optical fibers to smoothly transition through the opening 1734 and lead-in tube of any associated fiber optic connector.

[0125] The third embodiment of the optical fiber connector 2100 according to the present invention is Figures 39 to 48 . Fiber optic connector 2100 is similar to other embodiments in that most of the components of fiber optic connector 2100 are the same, with the difference being that latch component (push-pull mechanism) 2104 is an automatically reset latch component (push-pull mechanism) 2104. That is, if a user pulls latch component (push-pull mechanism) 2104 backward, latch component (push-pull mechanism) 2104 will return to its original position (forward position) without the need for manual reset. In previous embodiments, if latch component (push-pull mechanism) 104, 1104 is pulled (to remove the fiber optic connector from the adapter / carrier), latch component (push-pull mechanism) will remain in the rearward position. This embodiment focuses on automatically resetting latch component (push-pull mechanism) 2104 to the forward position.

[0126] In view of the similarities between this embodiment of the fiber optic connector and those embodiments discussed above (particularly the first embodiment), only the discussion of new components will be included. Thus, minor changes to the latch component (push-pull mechanism) 2104 and the housing 2102 will be discussed.

[0127] Latch component (push-pull mechanism) 2104 Figures 40 to 48 The latch component (push-pull mechanism) 2104 has a main body 2210 and a latch body 2212 attached to the main body 2210. Figures 40 to 43The body 2210 has a front portion 2214, a middle portion 2216, and a rear portion 2218. Generally, the front portion 2214 is where the latch body 2212 is attached to the body 2210 and provides a means for latching the fiber optic connector 2100 to the adapter and carrier as described above. The middle portion 2216 provides an area for the flexure member 2220 and engages the latch component (push-pull mechanism) 2104. The rear portion 2218 has a gripping portion 2222 to allow a user to push and pull the latch component (push-pull mechanism) 2104 to engage and disengage the fiber optic connector 2100 from the adapter and / or carrier.

[0128] The front portion 2214 is divided into a first front portion 2230 and a second front portion 2232. The first front portion 2230 has two windows 2234 and 2236, and the second front portion 2232 has a window 2238. The second window 2236 and the window 2238 of the first front portion 2230 will receive the latch from the latch body 2212 through them. The first window 2234 (and also the third window 2238) are used to receive the latch pad on the latch body 2212. The underside of the first portion 2214 has grooves 2240 on either side to receive the extensions of the latch pads 2242, 2244 from the latch body 2212 (see Figure 43 and Figure 47 ) to secure the latch body 2212 to the main body 2210. The extended portions of the latch pads 2242, 2244 (and therefore the latch body 2212) can slide within the groove 2240 to allow locking and unlocking of the fiber optic connector 2100. The groove 2240 should extend the length of the first portion 2214.

[0129] The second front portion 2232 has an upper surface 2246 that is higher than the upper surface 2248 of the first front portion 2214. This allows the carrier and the adapter to be latched with the same device, as described above for other embodiments. On the bottom side 2250 of the second front portion 2232 are two extensions 2252, 2254 that are complementary to the rail receiving portion of the housing 2102. See Figure 41 The latch body 2212 also has the same track portion configuration of two extensions 2256, 2258 on its bottom. This allows the main body 2210 and latch body 2212 to be slidably attached to the track receiving portion of the housing 2102. When the latch body 2212 is inserted into the first front portion 2230, the front surfaces 2260 of the two extensions 2252, 2254 provide a push surface by which the main body 2210 can push the latch body 2212 in the track receiving portion. See also Figure 44 The front surfaces 2262 of the two extensions 2256, 2258 also provide a push surface for abutting against the stop surface 2264 of the housing 2102. Figure 45 and Figure 48This allows the user to apply a force to the latch member (push-pull mechanism) 2104, which is transferred through the main body 2210 to the latch body 2212 and to the housing 2102 to insert the fiber optic connector 2100 into a carrier and / or adapter.

[0130] The intermediate portion 2216 also has a window 2270 to receive a portion of the flexure member 2220 that extends from the latch body 2212. The intermediate portion 2216 also has a cavity or space 2272 on the bottom side 2250 to receive any other portion of the flexure member 2220 that may be required.

[0131] Steering Figure 42 and Figure 43 , the latch body 2212 has two latches, namely the adapter latch 2280 and the carrier latch 2282. The latch body 2212 may have only one of the latches, depending on its use and the needs of the user. The adapter latch 2280 extends from the front of the latch body 2212 and protrudes through the window 2236 of the main body 2210. The carrier latch 2282 also extends from the latch body 2212 (from the rear thereof) and protrudes through the window 2238 of the main body 2210. As shown in FIG. Figure 44 As will be appreciated, the adapter latch 2280 is not elevated as high as in the other embodiments. For this embodiment, the discussion of the position and composition of the latch ends from those embodiments is also adopted.

[0132] The latch body 2212 also has a connector latch 2290. The connector latch 2290 extends forward beyond the front surfaces 2262 of the two extensions 2256, 2258 to engage a latch stop 2292 at a stop surface 2264. The connector latch 2290 has a downwardly curled portion 2294 that provides a surface for engaging the latch stop 2292. The connector latch 2290 may also have a latch rib 2296 that connects the curled portion 2294 to the rest of the connector latch 2290. The latch stop 2292 may also have a groove 2298 therein to receive the latch rib 2296. The connector latch 2290 holds the latch body 2212 and the housing 2102 together. As described in more detail below, the connection of the connector latch 2290 to the housing 2102 allows the main body 2210 to move relative to the latch body 2212 when the latch component (push-pull mechanism) 2104 is pulled rearward.

[0133] The latch body 2212 also has two latch pads 2242, 2244. The latch pads 2242, 2244 have two functions: first, to help retain the latch body 2212 in the body 2210; and second, to limit the movement of the latch component (push-pull mechanism) 2104 relative to the housing 2102. Figure 39 、 Figure 45 and Figure 48 As shown, the first latch pad 2242 is disposed within the first window 2234 of the body 2210. Obviously, when the body 2210 is pulled relative to the latch body 2212, the first latch pad 2242 only slides a certain distance relative to the first window 2234 before it engages a portion of the body 2210. This is also true for the second latch pad 2244. The second latch pad 2244 is disposed in the second window 2236 along with the carrier latch 2282. When the body 2210 is pulled relative to the latch body 2212, the body 2210 pushes the adapter latch 2280 (and the carrier latch 2282) downwardly out of the window 2236. As the body 2210 continues in the rearward direction, it will engage the front end of the second pad 2244, thereby inhibiting any further movement of the body 2210 toward the latch body 2212. See Figure 48 .

[0134] Steering Figure 42 、 Figure 43 、 Figure 46 , the flexure member 2220 will now be described. With particular reference to Figure 42 and Figure 43 , the flexure member 2220 extends from the rear of the latch body 2212. In the embodiment shown in the drawings, the flexure member 2220 has a first curved portion 2300 and a second curved portion 2302. The second curved portion 2302 terminates at a terminal end 2304. The terminal end 2304 is preferably disposed in the third window 2270 and is also preferably in contact with at least one surface defining the window 2270. Figure 46 The first curved portion 2300 is also partially located in the cavity or space 2272. The flexure member 2220 may also have only one of the two curved portions 2300, 2302, depending on the amount of force required of the main body 2210 relative to the latch body 2212.

[0135] As the main body 2210 is pulled rearward relative to the latch body 2212, the latches 2280, 2282 move downward (also as described above), releasing the fiber optic connector 2100 from any adapter and / or carrier. During this movement, as the terminal 2304 presses against the wall of the opening 2270, the flexure member 2220 is placed under tension (the bent portion begins to straighten or change shape in its state). Once the fiber optic connector 2100 is removed from the adapter and / or carrier and the user releases the grip portion 2222, the main body 2210 will return to its original state as the flexure member pulls the main body 2210. See Figure 39 The flexure 2220 serves as a self-resetting mechanism for the latch component (push-pull mechanism) 2104. Accordingly, other self-resetting mechanisms may be used in place of the specific embodiment of the flexure 2220. For example, a spring may be used to bias the main body 2210 relative to the latch body 2212.

[0136] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations may be made to the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Therefore, the present invention is intended to cover modifications and variations of the invention as long as they fall within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A push-pull mechanism for use with an optical fiber connector having a housing, the push-pull mechanism comprising: a main body having a front portion, a middle portion, and a rear portion; a latch body connected to a front portion of the main body, the front portion having a window for receiving a latch therethrough from the latch body, the latch for engaging a fiber optic connector adapter; as well as A track portion extends along a side of the body to slidably engage the housing on an outer surface of the housing. 2 . The push-pull mechanism according to claim 1 , wherein the latch body is positioned below the main body.

3. The push-pull mechanism of claim 1 , wherein the latch is an adapter latch at least partially positioned within the window and movable within the window, the adapter latch being engageable with the fiber optic connector adapter to retain the fiber optic connector or to release the fiber optic connector from the fiber optic connector adapter.

4. The push-pull mechanism of claim 1, further comprising a gripping portion on the rear portion, the gripping portion being configured to allow a user to push and pull the push-pull mechanism to engage and disengage the fiber optic connector with the adapter. 5 . The push-pull mechanism of claim 1 , further comprising a flexure member connected to the latch body to bias the main body toward a front end of the fiber optic connector housing. 6 . The push-pull mechanism of claim 1 , further comprising a second window and a second latch extending through the second window and engaging the carrier.

7. The push-pull mechanism of claim 1, wherein the positioning of the track portion in the housing determines the polarity of the fiber optic connector.

8. A push-pull mechanism for use with a fiber optic connector having a housing, the push-pull mechanism comprising: a main body having a front portion, a middle portion, and a rear portion; a latch body connected to a front portion of the main body, the front portion having a window for receiving a latch therethrough from the latch body, the latch for engaging a fiber optic connector adapter; as well as A track portion extends along a side of the body to slidably engage the housing on an exterior surface of the housing, the track portion being positioned to indicate polarity of the fiber optic connector.

9. The push-pull mechanism of claim 8, further comprising a flexure member connected to the latch body to bias the main body toward a front end of the fiber optic connector housing.

10. The push-pull mechanism of claim 9, wherein the flex member engages a portion of a fiber optic connector housing forward of the front of the body. 11 . The push-pull mechanism of claim 10 , wherein the flexure member engages with the body at the front portion, the middle portion, and the rear portion.

12. The push-pull mechanism of claim 8, further comprising a gripping portion on the rear portion, the gripping portion configured to allow a user to push and pull the push-pull mechanism to engage and disengage the fiber optic connector with the adapter.

13. The push-pull mechanism of claim 8, further comprising a second window and a second latch extending through the second window and engaging the carrier.

14. The push-pull mechanism of claim 8, wherein the track portion is positioned within the housing to determine the polarity of the fiber optic connector.

15. A push-pull mechanism for respectively engaging and disengaging a fiber optic connector with and from an adapter, the push-pull mechanism comprising: a body having a window; a latch body connected to the front portion of the main body, the latch body having a latch extending rearwardly from the front portion of the latch body and having a proximal end, the latch being positioned at least partially within the window from below the main body; as well as a track portion extending along a side of the body to slidably engage the fiber optic connector housing on an outer surface of the fiber optic connector housing, wherein to engage the fiber optic connector with the adapter, the proximal end is engaged to an inner surface of the adapter until the latch is at least partially within the adapter window and contacts an engagement surface of the adapter window, and To disengage the fiber optic connector from the adapter, the underside of the body engages the latch during rearward movement of the body to move the proximal end out of the adapter window, thereby disengaging the latch from the engagement surface of the adapter window.

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