Female fiber optic connector with rocker latch arm and its manufacturing method

Abstract

A female fiber optic connector having a connection port opening for receiving a fiber optic plug and a cable assembly including the female fiber optic connector, and a method of manufacturing the same are disclosed. The female fiber optic connector includes an actuator, such as a rocker latch arm for releasing or securing an external fiber optic plug that can be received in the connection port. The main body of the female fiber optic connector includes a connection port adapted to receive an external fiber optic plug connector. The disclosed female fiber optic connector advantageously allows for quick and easy connection to an external fiber optic plug connector for ruggedized or other desired applications. A method for connecting the fiber optic end of a cable to the female fiber optic connector to form a cable assembly is also disclosed.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 63 / 107,962, filed October 30, 2020, the contents of which are the basis of this application and are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure relates to female fiber optic connectors and cable assemblies including female fiber optic connectors with rocker latch arms, and methods of manufacturing the same. The disclosed female fiber optic connector includes a connection port adapted to receive a complementary male plug connector and uses a rocker latch arm to secure or release the connector. Background Technology

[0004] Fiber optic cables are increasingly used in a variety of applications, including but not limited to broadband voice, video, and data transmission. As bandwidth demands increase, fiber optics are being migrated more deeply into communication networks, such as in fiber-to-the-home applications like FTTx and 5G. With fiber optics becoming more integrated into communication networks, there is a need to build more complex and flexible fiber optic networks using fiber optic connectors that allow for quick and easy connections.

[0005] The development of fiber optic connectors is aimed at providing plug-and-play optical connections in links or devices within communication networks, such as terminals, cabinets, and junction boxes. Fiber optic connectors allow for the distribution of optical signals within an optical network and provide the flexibility to position devices in convenient locations for efficient network design and deployment, while also deferring connections and associated capital expenditures until needed within the communication network. Furthermore, optical connectors offer convenient locations for movement, addition, or modification within the communication network as required. As optical network deployments expand, more optical connectors are needed to build complex communication networks, especially in outdoor environments (i.e., outdoor factories), as fiber optics are being deployed more deeply into communication networks for FTTx, 5G, or other applications.

[0006] Conventional fiber optic connectors used in outdoor environments employ threaded nuts or components to hold or release mating optical connectors. However, the use of threaded nuts or components increases the size of the connector or requires additional space for fingers to access and rotate them. Therefore, terminals or other devices require larger connectors due to the need for space between adjacent connectors for finger access, etc. Furthermore, users are not always visually aware of which side of the mating connection has the rotating threaded component.

[0007] Therefore, there remains an unresolved need for fiber optic connector designs that provide fast and easy optical coupling. Furthermore, the connector design should allow for rapid and flexible manufacturing while still providing reliable optical performance. Summary of the Invention

[0008] This disclosure relates to a female fiber optic connector having a connection port opening for receiving an external fiber optic plug or a fiber optic connector for optical connection, and for retaining the external plug connector using an actuator. The female fiber optic connector has an actuator that cooperates with the external plug connector. The actuator of the female fiber optic connector can be biased to a standard holding position of the external plug connector or not biased, as needed. When a user wishes to release the external plug connector, the actuator can move to a release position, thus disengaging the external plug connector from the female fiber optic connector. By way of example and not limitation, the actuator may be a rocker latch arm, but other actuators are possible according to the disclosed connector concept, such as a sliding button or a rotating collar for releasing the external plug connector.

[0009] The disclosed female fiber optic connector has a connection port for receiving a mating fiber optic plug and a sleeve including one or more holes for receiving one or more optical fibers. The female fiber optic connector includes a main tube having a rear end and a front end, wherein a channel extends from the rear end to the front end, and the front end of the main tube includes a connection port opening. The actuator is translatable relative to the main tube to release the mating fiber optic plug from the connection port opening. An optional weatherproof collar may be disposed behind the connection port opening and around a portion of the main tube and the actuator to prevent dirt, debris, or moisture from entering the female connector. By way of example and not limitation, the actuator may be a rocker latch arm attached to the main tube, but other actuators as discussed are also possible. In other embodiments, the main tube may cooperate with an inner tube if desired, but the disclosed female connector concept may use a main tube without an inner tube if desired, while having features forming the main tube.

[0010] One aspect of this disclosure relates to a female fiber optic connector having a connection port for receiving a mating fiber optic plug. The female connector includes: a sleeve having one or more holes for receiving one or more optical fibers; an inner cylinder; a main cylinder; and an actuator configured as a rocker latch arm. The inner cylinder includes a rear end and a front end, wherein an inner cylinder channel extends from the rear end to the front end. The rear end includes an inner cylinder rear end opening sized to receive the sleeve. The main cylinder includes a rear end and a front end, wherein a main cylinder channel extends from the rear end to the front end. The rear end includes a main cylinder rear end opening sized to receive the inner cylinder, and the front end includes a connector port opening. The rocker latch arm includes a pivot adapted to pivot the rocker latch arm relative to the main cylinder.

[0011] Another aspect of this disclosure relates to a female fiber optic connector having a connection port for receiving a mating fiber optic plug. The female connector includes: a sleeve having one or more holes for receiving one or more optical fibers; an inner cylinder; a main cylinder; an actuator configured as a rocker latch arm; and one or more resilient members. The inner cylinder includes an inner cylinder rear end and an inner cylinder front end, wherein an inner cylinder channel extends from the inner cylinder rear end to the inner cylinder front end. The inner cylinder rear end includes an inner cylinder rear end opening sized to receive the sleeve. The main cylinder includes a main cylinder rear end and a main cylinder front end, wherein a main cylinder channel extends from the main cylinder rear end to the main cylinder front end. The main cylinder rear end includes a main cylinder rear end opening sized to receive the inner cylinder, and the main cylinder front end includes a connector port opening. The rocker latch arm includes a pivot adapted to pivot the rocker latch arm relative to the main cylinder, and the one or more resilient members are used to bias the rocker latch arm to a holding position.

[0012] Another aspect of this disclosure relates to a female fiber optic connector having a connection port for receiving a mating fiber optic plug. The female connector includes: a sleeve having one or more holes for receiving one or more optical fibers; an inner cylinder; a main cylinder; an actuator configured as a rocker latch arm; and one or more resilient members. The inner cylinder includes an inner cylinder rear end and an inner cylinder front end, wherein an inner cylinder channel extends from the inner cylinder rear end to the inner cylinder front end. The inner cylinder rear end includes an inner cylinder rear end opening sized to receive the sleeve. The main cylinder includes a main cylinder rear end and a main cylinder front end, wherein a main cylinder channel extends from the main cylinder rear end to the main cylinder front end. The main cylinder rear end includes a main cylinder rear end opening sized to receive the inner cylinder, and the main cylinder front end includes a connector port opening. The rocker latch arm includes a pivot adapted to pivot the rocker latch arm relative to the main cylinder and includes a latch and a rear end. The one or more resilient members are adapted to bias the rocker latch arm to a holding position, wherein a portion of the one or more resilient members cooperates with the rear end of the rocker latch arm.

[0013] Another aspect of this disclosure relates to a female fiber optic connector having a connection port for receiving a mating fiber optic plug. The female connector includes: a sleeve having one or more holes for receiving one or more optical fibers; an inner cylinder; a main cylinder; an actuator configured as a rocker latch arm; one or more resilient members; and a rear spring actuation member. The inner cylinder includes an inner cylinder rear end and an inner cylinder front end, wherein an inner cylinder channel extends from the inner cylinder rear end to the inner cylinder front end. The inner cylinder rear end includes an inner cylinder rear end opening sized to receive the sleeve. The main cylinder includes a main cylinder rear end and a main cylinder front end, wherein a main cylinder channel extends from the main cylinder rear end to the main cylinder front end. The main cylinder rear end includes a main cylinder rear end opening sized to receive the inner cylinder, and the main cylinder front end includes a connector port opening. The rocker latch arm includes a pivot adapted to pivot the rocker latch arm relative to the main cylinder and includes a latch and a rear end. The one or more resilient members are adapted to bias the rocker latch arm to a holding position, wherein a portion of the one or more resilient members cooperates with the rear end of the rocker latch arm. The rear spring pusher is adapted to be attached to the main cylinder.

[0014] Another aspect of this disclosure relates to a female fiber optic connector having a connection port for receiving a mating fiber optic plug. The female connector includes: a sleeve having one or more holes for receiving one or more optical fibers; an inner cylinder; a main cylinder; an actuator configured as a rocker latch arm; one or more resilient members; a rear spring pusher; and a spring. The inner cylinder includes an inner cylinder rear end and an inner cylinder front end, wherein an inner cylinder channel extends from the inner cylinder rear end to the inner cylinder front end. The inner cylinder rear end includes an inner cylinder rear end opening sized to receive the sleeve. The main cylinder includes a main cylinder rear end and a main cylinder front end, wherein a main cylinder channel extends from the main cylinder rear end to the main cylinder front end. The main cylinder rear end includes a main cylinder rear end opening sized to receive the inner cylinder, and the main cylinder front end includes a connector port opening. The rocker latch arm includes a pivot adapted to pivot the rocker latch arm relative to the main cylinder and includes a latch and a rear end. The one or more resilient members are adapted to bias the rocker latch arm to a holding position, wherein a portion of the one or more resilient members cooperates with the rear end of the rocker latch arm. The spring is used to bias the inner cylinder to a forward position within the main cylinder.

[0015] Another aspect of this disclosure relates to a female fiber optic connector having a connection port for receiving a mating fiber optic plug. The female connector includes: a sleeve having one or more holes for receiving one or more optical fibers; an inner cylinder; a main cylinder; an actuator configured as a rocker latch arm; one or more resilient members; a rear spring pusher; a spring; and a weatherproof collar. The inner cylinder includes an inner cylinder rear end and an inner cylinder front end, wherein an inner cylinder channel extends from the inner cylinder rear end to the inner cylinder front end. The inner cylinder rear end includes an inner cylinder rear end opening sized to receive the sleeve. The main cylinder includes a main cylinder rear end and a main cylinder front end, wherein a main cylinder channel extends from the main cylinder rear end to the main cylinder front end. The main cylinder rear end includes a main cylinder rear end opening sized to receive the inner cylinder, and the main cylinder front end includes a connector port opening. The rocker latch arm includes a pivot adapted to pivot the rocker latch arm relative to the main cylinder and includes a rear end. The one or more resilient members are adapted to bias the rocker latch arm to a holding position, wherein a portion of the one or more resilient members cooperates with the rear end of the rocker latch arm. The rear spring pusher is adapted to attach to the main cylinder, and the spring is used to bias the inner cylinder to a forward position within the main cylinder. The weatherproof collar is sized to surround a portion of the main cylinder.

[0016] Another aspect of this disclosure relates to a female fiber optic connector having a connection port for receiving a mating fiber optic plug. The female connector includes: a sleeve having one or more holes for receiving one or more optical fibers; an inner cylinder; a main cylinder; an actuator configured as a rocker latch arm; one or more resilient members; a rear spring pusher; a spring; and a weatherproof collar. The inner cylinder includes an inner cylinder rear end and an inner cylinder front end, wherein an inner cylinder channel extends from the inner cylinder rear end to the inner cylinder front end. The inner cylinder rear end includes an inner cylinder rear end opening sized to receive the sleeve. The main cylinder includes a main cylinder rear end and a main cylinder front end, wherein a main cylinder channel extends from the main cylinder rear end to the main cylinder front end. The main cylinder rear end includes a main cylinder rear end opening sized to receive the inner cylinder, and the main cylinder front end includes a connector port opening. The rocker latch arm includes a pivot adapted to pivot the rocker latch arm relative to the main cylinder and includes a rear end. The one or more resilient members are adapted to bias the rocker latch arm to a holding position, and a portion of the one or more resilient members is disposed between the inner cylinder and the rocker latch arm. The rear spring pusher is adapted to attach to the main cylinder, and the spring is used to bias the inner cylinder to a forward position within the main cylinder. The weatherproof collar is sized to surround a portion of the main cylinder.

[0017] Another aspect of this disclosure relates to a female fiber optic connector having a connection port for receiving a mating fiber optic plug. The female connector includes: a sleeve having one or more holes for receiving one or more optical fibers; an inner tube; a main tube; an actuator configured as a rocker latch arm; one or more resilient members; a rear spring pusher including a cable strain relief portion; a spring; and a weatherproof collar. The inner tube includes an inner tube rear end and an inner tube front end, wherein an inner tube channel extends from the inner tube rear end to the inner tube front end. The inner tube rear end includes an inner tube rear end opening sized to receive the sleeve. The main tube includes a main tube rear end and a main tube front end, wherein a main tube channel extends from the main tube rear end to the main tube front end. The main tube rear end includes a main tube rear end opening sized to receive the inner tube, and the main tube front end includes a connector port opening. The rocker latch arm includes a pivot adapted to pivot the rocker latch arm relative to the main tube and includes a latch and a rear end. The one or more resilient members are adapted to bias the rocker latch arm to a holding position, and a portion of the one or more resilient members is disposed between the inner cylinder and the rocker latch arm. The rear spring pusher is adapted to attach to the main cylinder, and the spring is used to bias the inner cylinder to a forward position within the main cylinder. The weatherproof collar is sized to surround a portion of the main cylinder.

[0018] Another aspect of this disclosure relates to a female fiber optic connector having a connection port for receiving mating fiber optic plugs. The female connector includes: a sleeve having one or more holes for receiving one or more optical fibers; an inner tube; a main tube; an actuator configured as a rocker latch arm; one or more resilient members; a rear spring pusher including a cable strain relief portion; a spring; and a weatherproof collar. The inner tube includes an inner tube rear end and an inner tube front end, wherein an inner tube channel extends from the inner tube rear end to the inner tube front end. The inner tube rear end includes an inner tube rear end opening sized to receive the sleeve. The main tube includes a main tube rear end and a main tube front end, wherein a main tube channel extends from the main tube rear end to the main tube front end. The main tube rear end includes a main tube rear end opening sized to receive the sleeve.

[0019] A main cylinder rear end opening for receiving the inner cylinder, and a connector port opening at the front end of the main cylinder, and a keyed feature. The rocker latch arm includes a pivot adapted to pivot the rocker latch arm relative to the main cylinder and includes a rear end. One or more resilient members are adapted to bias the rocker latch arm to a holding position, and a portion of the one or more resilient members is disposed between the inner cylinder and the rocker latch arm. A rear spring pusher is adapted to attach to the main cylinder, and the spring is used to bias the inner cylinder to a forward position within the main cylinder. The weatherproof collar is sized to surround a portion of the main cylinder.

[0020] Another aspect of this disclosure relates to a female fiber optic connector having a connection port for receiving a mating fiber optic plug. The female connector includes: a sleeve having one or more holes for receiving one or more optical fibers; an inner tube; a main tube; an actuator configured as a rocker latch arm; one or more resilient members; a rear spring pusher including a cable strain relief portion; a spring; and a weatherproof collar. The inner tube includes an inner tube rear end and an inner tube front end, wherein an inner tube channel extends from the inner tube rear end to the inner tube front end. The inner tube rear end includes an inner tube rear end opening sized to receive the sleeve. The main tube includes a main tube rear end and a main tube front end, wherein a main tube channel extends from the main tube rear end to the main tube front end. The main tube rear end includes a main tube rear end opening sized to receive the inner tube, and the main tube front end includes a connector port opening, and the main tube includes a keying feature configured as a male keying feature. The rocker latch arm includes a pivot adapted to pivot the rocker latch arm relative to the main cylinder, and the rocker latch arm is disposed on opposite sides of the keyed feature. The one or more resilient members are adapted to bias the rocker latch arm to a holding position, and a portion of the one or more resilient members is disposed between the inner cylinder and the main cylinder. The rear spring pusher is adapted to attach to the main cylinder, and the spring is used to bias the inner cylinder to a forward position. The weatherproof collar is sized to surround a portion of the main cylinder.

[0021] Another aspect of this disclosure relates to a female fiber optic connector having a connection port for receiving a mating fiber optic plug. The female connector includes: a sleeve having one or more holes for receiving one or more optical fibers; an inner tube; a main tube; an actuator configured as a rocker latch arm; one or more resilient members; a rear spring actuation member including a cable strain relief portion; a spring; a weatherproof collar; and one or more caps cooperating with the weatherproof collar. The inner tube includes a rear end and a front end, wherein an inner tube channel extends from the rear end to the front end. The rear end includes an inner tube rear end opening sized to receive the sleeve. The main tube includes a main tube rear end and a main tube front end, wherein a main tube channel extends from the rear end to the front end. The rear end includes a main tube rear end opening sized to receive the inner tube, and the front end includes a connector port opening, and the main tube includes a keying feature configured as a male keying feature. The rocker latch arm includes a pivot adapted to pivot the rocker latch arm relative to the main cylinder, and the rocker latch arm is disposed on the main cylinder opposite the keyed feature. One or more resilient members are adapted to bias the rocker latch arm to a holding position, and the one or more resilient members are disposed between the inner cylinder and the rocker latch arm. The spring pusher is adapted to attach to the main cylinder, and the spring is used to bias the inner cylinder to a forward position within the main cylinder. The weatherproof collar is sized to be disposed around a portion of the main cylinder.

[0022] A method for manufacturing an optical fiber cable assembly having a female optical fiber connector including a connection port is also disclosed. The method includes: attaching one or more optical fibers of the optical fiber cable to a sleeve, inserting the sleeve into a channel of an inner cylinder. The inner cylinder includes a rear end and a front end, wherein the inner cylinder channel extends from the rear end to the front end, wherein the rear end includes a rear end opening sized to receive the sleeve. The inner cylinder is placed within a main cylinder, wherein the main cylinder includes a rear end and a front end, wherein the main cylinder channel extends from the rear end to the front end. The rear end includes a rear end opening sized to receive the inner cylinder, and the front end includes a connector port opening, and an actuator such as a rocker latch arm is attached to the main cylinder. Other similar methods may involve attaching any actuator as needed, such as a sliding button or rotating collar for releasing the external plug connector, instead of the rocker latch arm.

[0023] Additional features and advantages will be set forth in the following detailed description, and in part will be obvious to those skilled in the art from the description or will be recognized by practice as described herein, including the following detailed description, the claims, and the drawings.

[0024] It should be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description present embodiments intended to provide an overview or framework for understanding the nature and features of the claims. Drawings are included to provide a further understanding of this disclosure, and these drawings are incorporated in and form a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate various embodiments and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles and operation. Attached Figure Description

[0025] Figure 1 It is an interpretive perspective view of a female fiber optic connector with a connection port according to the disclosed concept, the female fiber optic connector having actuators such as rocker latch arms for retaining or releasing an external male plug connector that can be received in the connection port;

[0026] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of the female fiber optic connector, showing the dust plug removed from the connection port;

[0027] Figure 3 Depicting Figure 2 A perspective view of the female fiber optic connector, showing how the external male plug connector can be aligned and inserted into the connection port opening of the female fiber optic connector for optical communication;

[0028] Figures 4A to 4B These are partial cross-sectional views showing the rocker latch arm of the female fiber optic connector in the holding and released positions, respectively.

[0029] Figure 4C and Figure 4D This is a partial view showing a portion of a female fiber optic connector having a rocker latch arm biased by one or more elastic members;

[0030] Figures 5A to 5C This is a partial view showing a portion of another female fiber optic connector having a rocker latch arm biased by one or more elastic members;

[0031] Figure 6A and Figure 6B This is a view showing a portion of another female fiber optic connector having a rocker latch arm biased by one or more elastic members;

[0032] Figure 7A A portion of another female fiber optic connector is shown, featuring a rocker latch arm biased by one or more elastic members.

[0033] Figure 7B Another resilient member that can be used with the rocker latch arm of the female fiber optic connector is described;

[0034] Figure 8This is an exploded view of an explanatory female fiber optic connector with an actuator;

[0035] Figure 9 It is a longitudinal sectional view of an optical fiber cable assembly with a female optical fiber connector.

[0036] Figure 10 It is a longitudinal sectional view of an optical fiber cable assembly with a female optical fiber connector, wherein the dust plug is aligned to be inserted into the connector port of the female optical fiber connector.

[0037] Figure 11 It is a detailed sectional view of the rocker latch arm of the female fiber optic connector as it moves as the dustproof plug or external male plug connector is inserted into the connection port;

[0038] Figure 12 This is a detailed cross-sectional view of the rocker latch arm of the female fiber optic connector, biased to the standard holding position after the dustproof plug or external male plug connector has been fully inserted into the connection port.

[0039] Figure 13 It is a longitudinal sectional view of the fiber optic cable assembly, in which the external male connector is received and held within the connection port of the female fiber optic connector;

[0040] Figure 14 This is a detailed cross-sectional view of the rear of the female fiber optic connector, depicting optional weatherproof collars with or without compression caps at the opposite ends;

[0041] Figure 14A and Figure 14B This is a detailed cross-sectional view of the rear of the female fiber optic connector, taken along the orthogonal section of the connector, depicting an optional weatherproof collar with different end profiles that may or may not use compression caps at the opposite ends.

[0042] Figure 15 This is a rear perspective view of the inner cylinder of the female optical fiber connector;

[0043] Figure 16 yes Figure 15 A cross-sectional view of the inner cylinder of the female optical fiber connector shown.

[0044] Figure 17 This is a front perspective view of the main tube of the female optical fiber connector;

[0045] Figure 18 yes Figure 17 A cross-sectional view of the main tube of the female optical fiber connector depicted in the image;

[0046] Figure 19 and Figure 20 yes Figure 8 A perspective view of the rocker latch arm of the female fiber optic connector;

[0047] Figure 21 and Figure 22 It is used for biasing Figure 8 A perspective view of the elastic component of the rocker latch arm of the female fiber optic connector;

[0048] Figure 23 yes Figure 8 A perspective view of the rear spring pusher of the female optical fiber connector;

[0049] Figure 24 yes Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of the rear spring pusher of the female optical fiber connector;

[0050] Figure 25 yes Figure 8 A perspective view of the other inner cylinder of the female optical fiber connector;

[0051] Figures 26 to 40 Manufacturing process is shown Figure 8 An explanatory method for the female optical fiber connector;

[0052] Figures 41 to 50 The diagram depicts views and components of another interpretive female fiber optic connector, which has features for releasing components similar to... Figure 8 Explanation of the female optical fiber connector's mating plug connector actuator;

[0053] Figure 51 A cross-sectional view of a female fiber optic connector terminated on different fiber optic cables according to the disclosed concept is described; and Figure 52 and Figure 53 It shows that it is suitable for use with, for example Figure 3 The top and bottom perspective views of the external male connector that mates with the female fiber optic connector are shown. Detailed Implementation

[0054] Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of this disclosure, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, similar reference numerals will be used to refer to similar parts or portions.

[0055] The disclosed concepts relate to a female fiber optic connector (hereinafter referred to as a "female connector") having a connection port and a fiber optic cable assembly (hereinafter referred to as a "cable assembly") using the female connector, and methods of manufacturing thereof. As used herein, "connection port" means a cavity for receiving a fiber optic connector or external plug connector for optical connection. The disclosed female connector includes a connection port and actuators such as rocker latch arms for retaining (i.e., securing) or releasing an external male plug connector or dust plug received within the connection port. The disclosed female connector may also be ruggedized (i.e., suitable for outdoor environments) or unrugged, depending on the intended environment or application. The disclosed concepts provide a simple and reliable female connector that can be quickly and easily assembled to terminate one or more optical fibers. The disclosed female connector also allows for quick and easy mating with complementary external plug connectors (i.e., male plug connectors assembled in the connection port) using actuators such as rocker latch arms.

[0056] On the other hand, conventional hardened connectors use threaded or bayonet mating on the connector. Threaded or bayonet mating on conventional hardened connectors increases the connector size or requires spacing between adjacent connectors for finger access. The disclosed female connector advantageously has a relatively small diameter or form factor compared to conventional connectors. As an example, the female connector may have a nominal maximum outer diameter of 20 mm or less (e.g., the cross-sectional diameter perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the female connector, defined by a line passing through the center of the mating surface of the sleeve and extending rearward along the centerline to the rear of the female connector). If desired, the disclosed female connector and fiber optic cable assembly may also provide a push-in fixed connection feature for mating with external plug connectors or dust plugs.

[0057] Alternatively, the female connector may have an actuator that, if desired, switches between a holding position and a releasing position in a manner similar to a light switch using the disclosed concept. If the female connector has an actuator that switches between holding and releasing positions, there is no need for a resilient member to bias the actuator, such as a rocker latch arm, as it will reliably hold and switch between the corresponding holding and releasing positions.

[0058] The disclosed female connector concept can be used with any suitable cable. Furthermore, the female connector concept can be extended to any suitable number of optical fibers (e.g., 1-24 or more fibers) within a sleeve in various arrangements or constructions. Additionally, the sleeve may have one or more rows of holes for the optical fibers as needed.

[0059] The concepts disclosed herein are applicable to fiber optic networks, such as fiber-to-the-line (FTTx), network densification, and 5G applications, and are equally applicable to other optical applications, including indoor, industrial, wireless, or other desired applications. Although these concepts are illustrated using robust and durable female connector designs useful for outdoor applications, they can also be used in non-durable or indoor female connector designs if desired. Various designs, constructions, or features of female connectors and cable assemblies are disclosed in more detail as discussed herein and can be modified or varied as needed.

[0060] Figures 1 to 3 A cable assembly 200 with an illustrative female connector 100, including a connection port opening (CPO), is depicted according to the disclosed concept. Figures 4a through 7 depict alternative configurations that can be used with the disclosed female connector 100. Figures 8 to 14 The structural details of an explanatory cable assembly 200 with a female connector 100 are shown, and Figures 15 to 25 This is a component view of the female connector 100. Figures 26 to 40 Assembly steps of a method for manufacturing a female connector 100 according to the disclosed concept are disclosed. Figures 41 to 51 Publicly disclosed similar Figures 8 to 14 Another variation of the female connector 100. Figure 52 and Figure 53 This is a perspective view of an external plug connector (EPC) that can mate with the female connector 100 for optical connection.

[0061] Figures 1 to 3 This is an explanatory perspective view of a female connector 100 that terminates an optical fiber cable 90 to form a cable assembly 200. The female connector 100 includes a connection port (CP) for receiving mating optical fiber plugs (i.e., and external plug connectors). Figure 1 The text describes a female connector 100 in which a dustproof plug is disposed in the connection port (CP) to prevent dirt, debris, etc. from entering the connection port (CP) of the female connector 100. Figure 2 The diagram shows a female connector 100 with the dust plug 101 removed from the connection port (CP). Once the dust plug 101 is removed from the connection port opening (CPO), the inlet of the connection port (CP) can be used to insert a complementary external plug connector (EPC) into the connection port (CP) for optical mating.

[0062] Figure 3 An external plug connector (EPC) is shown, which can be aligned and inserted into the connection port opening (CPO) of the female connector 100 for use.

[0063] Optical mating in the connection port (CP) of the female connector 100. The connection port opening (CPO) leads to the cavity forming the connection port (CP) of the female connector 100.

[0064] The actuator 70 of the female connector 100, such as a rocker latch arm, is... Figure 2 The fixing feature 101SF of the dustproof plug 101 shown is... Figure 3 The retaining feature (SFE) of the external plug connector (EPC) shown cooperates. For example, the retaining feature 101SF of the dust plug 101 or the external plug connector (EPC) can be integrally formed in the dust plug or connector housing as a subtractive portion of a generally cylindrical geometry. Therefore, features such as rotating coupling nuts or bayonets that increase the connector size are not required for mating. The dust plug 101 or the external plug connector (EPC) can be released from the connection port (CP) of the female connector 100 by pushing down the latch release device (LR) provided on the female connector 100. Pushing the latch release device (LR) of the actuator, such as pushing the latch release device down, releases the rocker latch arm 70 from... Figure 4A The indicated holding position is moved to Figure 4B The release position is shown as indicated by the vertical arrow. As depicted, applying sufficient force to the latch release device (LR) causes the rocker latch arm 70, including the latch 70L, to pivot to the release position indicated by the vertical arrow. The rocker latch arm 70 includes a pivot 70P adapted to pivot relative to the main cylinder 70.

[0065] The actuator or rocker latch arm 70 can function as a light switch to switch between a release position and a hold position, or the rocker latch arm 70 can be biased to a standard hold position by one or more resilient members 75.

[0066] When the rocker latch arm 70 is biased to the standard holding position, the external plug connector (EPC) can be secured in the connection port (CP) of the female connector 100 by pushing the external plug connector (EPC) into the connection port (CP). Specifically, the external plug connector (EPC) is rotated to align and pushed into the connection port (CP) of the female connector until the retaining feature (SF) of the external plug connector (EPC) is secured by the actuator. Although the explanatory concept is described using an actuator of the rocker latch arm 70 configured as the female connector 100, other suitable actuators such as sliders or rotating collars are also possible, which can be a single component or use multiple components to interact with, for example, a rocker latch arm 70. Figure 3The external plug connector (EPC) shown cooperates. Specifically, when the external plug connector (EPC) is pushed into the connection port (CP), the profile of the external plug connector (EPC) pushes the latch 70L upward, thereby allowing the external plug connector (EPC) to be inserted until the retaining feature (SFE) of the external plug connector (EPC) reaches the latch 70L. Once the retaining feature (SFE) of the external plug connector (EPC) reaches the latch 70L of the rocker latch arm 70, one or more resilient members 75 of the biased rocker latch arm 70 move to the latch 70L to a holding position and secure the external plug connector (EPC) in the connection port (CP) of the female connector 100, such as... Figure 13 As shown. Similarly, the dustproof plug 101 and its fixing feature 101SF are fixed in a manner similar to that shown. Figure 9 The process occurs as shown. Therefore, the mating between the female connector 100 and the external plug connector (EPC) or dust plug 101 does not require rotating the coupling nut or bayonet for optical connection.

[0067] Any suitable geometry or construction may be used for the actuator or rocker latch arm 70 of the female connector 100 disclosed herein. Any suitable material, such as polymers, metals, etc., may also be used for the actuator or rocker latch arm 70. Similarly, one or more suitable resilient members 75 may be used to bias the rocker latch arm 70 to a holding position. As an example, one or more resilient members 75 may be, as needed, helical springs, leaf springs, wave springs, or torsion springs. Figure 4A Figures 7 through 7 depict different configurations or arrangements using one or more resilient members 75 to bias the rocker latch arm 70 into a holding position. As depicted, the rocker latch arm 70 includes a portion that protrudes into the connection port (CP) of the female connector 100 when in the holding position.

[0068] Figure 4A and Figure 4B A rocker latch arm 70 is depicted, comprising a latch 70L at a front end 70FE and a spring-loaded pusher 70SP at a rear end (or biased end) 70RE. As shown, a portion of one or more resilient members 75 cooperates with the rear end or biased end 70RE of the rocker latch arm. The rocker latch arm 70 has a pivot point 70P disposed between the front end 70FE and the rear end 70RE. The pivot point 70P allows the rocker latch arm 70 to pivot relative to the female connector 70. As described, the main cylinder 60 may include at least one slot 60S sized to receive the latch 70L of the rocker latch arm 70.

[0069] Figure 4A and Figure 4BThe rocker latch arm 70 is shown being biased by one or more helical springs. When the rocker latch arm 70 is biased to the standard holding position, the latch 70L extends into the connection port (CP), as shown. Figure 4A As shown. When the latch release device 70LR of the rocker latch arm 70 is pushed down with sufficient force, the latch 70L moves to a position that allows it to release the device in the connection port, such as no longer extending into the connection port (CP). Figure 4B As shown. For clarity, the selection component of the female connector 100 is not shown. Figure 4A and Figure 4B As shown in b.

[0070] Figure 4C A portion of the female connector 100 is shown, with the rocker latch arm removed to illustrate the component arrangement between the inner cylinder 20, the main cylinder 60, and one or more resilient members 75. As described, the inner cylinder 20 is disposed within the main cylinder 60. In this embodiment, the inner cylinder 20 has recesses (unnumbered) for receiving a portion of a respective resilient member 75. Furthermore, the main cylinder 60 may be shaped to cooperate with the inner cylinder 20 to form recesses for the respective resilient member 75, such as arcuate cuts, depending on the type of resilient member used. As shown in this embodiment, a portion of one or more resilient members 75 is disposed between the inner cylinder 20 and the main cylinder 60, but other arrangements are possible.

[0071] If desired, the main cylinder 60 may also include a recess 60R sized to receive a portion of the rocker latch arm 70. The recess 60R allows the rocker latch arm 70 to be fitted into the main cylinder 60 and provides a smaller footprint for the female connector 100. The main cylinder 60 may also include a pivot seat 60P. The pivot seat 60P may have any suitable construction for attaching the rocker latch arm 70. For example, the rocker latch arm 70 may have a snap-fit ​​attachment or a retainer 70R. The retainer 70R may be any suitable device such as a pin, clip, etc., to pivotally attach the rocker latch arm 70 to the main cylinder 60 as needed.

[0072] Figure 4CA plurality of resilient members 75 disposed within the female connector 100 are depicted. Specifically, two resilient members 75 for biasing the actuator of the female connector are depicted. In this case, the first resilient member 75 is disposed on the first side of the recess 60R and the second resilient member 75 is disposed on the second side of the recess 60R, but other arrangements of the resilient members for biasing the actuator are possible. The first and second resilient members 75 are helical springs for biasing the rocker latch arm 75 to a standard holding position when the female connector 100 is assembled. As shown, recesses for the two resilient members are disposed on opposite sides and below the rear wing at the rear end 70RE of the rocker latch arm 70. Of course, other types, numbers, or arrangements of the resilient members 75 are possible using the concept of the female connector 100 disclosed herein.

[0073] Figure 4D The setting is shown Figure 4C A rocker latch arm 70 is shown within a recess 60R of the main cylinder 60. One or more spring pushers 60P are disposed on the rear end 70RE of the rocker latch arm 70. This particular rocker latch arm 70 has multiple spring pushers 60 for cooperating with the resilient member 75. Specifically, this rocker latch arm has a first spring pusher 60P aligned above the first resilient member 75 and a second spring pusher 60P aligned above the second resilient member 75 at the rear wing at the rear end 70RE. As shown, the first and second spring pushers 60P are disposed on the outer side or wing of this rocker latch arm 70, but other configurations or arrangements are possible according to the disclosed concept. Further details of this rocker latch arm 70 are provided in... Figure 48 and Figure 49 As shown in the image.

[0074] Although the disclosed female connector concept is shown as having a main tube and an inner tube, it is possible to use these concepts in cases where the inner tube is not used but features on the main tube are present. Using a main tube without an inner tube would be more complex in manufacturing and / or assembly, but it is possible to utilize the disclosed concepts, and these concepts are not limited to designs requiring both an inner tube and a main tube as shown in the illustrative embodiments.

[0075] Figures 5A to 5C Another arrangement of the interpretive female connector 100 using the concepts disclosed herein is depicted. Figure 5AA portion of a female connector 100 is shown, with the rocker latch arm removed to illustrate the component arrangement between the inner cylinder 20, the main cylinder 60, and one or more resilient members 75. In this embodiment, a single resilient member 75 is used to bias the rocker latch arm 70 to a standard holding position. In this embodiment, the resilient member 75 is configured as a leaf spring. As shown, the resilient member 75 has a first end fitted within a recess 60N in the main cylinder 60, and a second end disposed in a recess 70N in a spring actuator 70SP of the rocker latch arm latch 70. The rocker latch arm latch 70 of this embodiment operates in a manner similar to that discussed herein.

[0076] Figure 6A and Figure 6B Another arrangement of the female connector 100 using the concepts disclosed herein is depicted. Figure 6A A single resilient member 75 is shown for biasing the rocker latch arm 70 to a standard holding position. In this embodiment, the resilient member 75 is constructed as a leaf spring. As shown, the resilient member 75 has a first end fitted within a recess 60N in the main cylinder 60, and a second end disposed in a recess 70N arranged in the spring pusher 70SP of the rocker latch arm latch 70. However, this embodiment of the resilient member 75 has a hairpin bend at its rear end for attachment to the spring pusher 70SP. The rocker latch arm latch 70 of this embodiment operates in a manner similar to that discussed herein.

[0077] Figure 7A Another arrangement of the female connector 100 using the concepts disclosed herein is depicted. Figure 7A A partial exploded view of the female connector 100 is shown, including a rocker latch arm 70 biased to a standard retaining position by a resilient member 75. Although only a single resilient member 75 is shown, multiple resilient members 75 may be concentrically arranged to bias the spring actuation member 70P of the rocker latch arm 70 to the standard retaining position. The resilient members 75 may have selectable restoring forces to customize the desired force. In this embodiment, the rocker latch arm 70 is pivotally mounted to the main cylinder 60 using a retainer 70R configured as a clip, but other retainers such as pins, screws, etc., for attaching the rocker latch arm 70 to the main cylinder 60 are also possible.

[0078] Other types of elastic members can be used in conjunction with the disclosed concepts. As an example, Figure 7B A spring-like elastic member 75 configured as a torsion spring is shown for use with the disclosed concept. Using one or more spring-like elastic members 75 configured as a torsion spring as shown may require mounting a coiled portion. However, mounting the coiled portion at the pivot 70P may also be possible, but this would increase the size of the female connector 100.

[0079] One or more resilient members 75 provide a suitable downward holding force (RF) to hold the latch 70L of the rocker latch arm 70 as such. Figure 4A The holding position is shown. Furthermore, due to the position of the pivot 70P relative to the length of the rocker latch arm to the spring pusher 70SP behind the pivot 70P relative to the length of the arm to the latch 70 in front of the pivot 70P, the restoring force provided by one or more elastic members 75 at the spring pusher 70SP of the rocker latch arm 70 may have a multiplier. In other words, the arm lengths from the rear and front portions of the pivot may not be equal.

[0080] As an explanation, the arm length from pivot 70P to spring pusher 70SP may have a normalized length of 1 unit, and the arm length from pivot 70P to latch 70P may have a normalized length of 1.1 units, thereby providing a multiplier for the restoring force (RF) provided by one or more elastic members 75. The downward holding force (RF) used to hold latch 70L in the holding position may have any suitable value. As an example, the downward holding force (RF) used to hold rocker latch arm 70 or latch 70L in the holding position is between 5 Newtons and 15 Newtons (N). In other embodiments, the downward holding force (RF) used to hold rocker latch arm 70 or latch 70L in the holding position is between 7 N and 12 N, but other ranges of downward holding force (RF) using the disclosed concept are possible.

[0081] Other arrangements for biasing the rocker latch arm 75 to the standard holding position are also possible. Figure 8 This is an exploded view of the explanatory female connector 100, and Figure 9 and Figure 10 It is a longitudinal sectional view of an optical fiber cable assembly 200 having a female connector 100. Figure 11 and Figure 12 The details of the mating of the female connector 100 with the dustproof plug 101 are shown, which is similar to the mating of the female connector 100 with the external plug connector (EPC), and Figure 13 A female connector 100 that mates with an external plug connector (EPC) is shown. Figure 14 This is a detailed partial sectional view of the rear of the female connector 100 with an optional weatherproof collar 80, and Figure 14A and Figure 14B Another variation of the optional weatherproof collar 80 with a different end profile is shown.

[0082] The specific construction of the inner cylinder 20 or the main cylinder 70 will depend on the type of elastic member 75 and / or rocker latch arm 70 used for the female connector 100. Therefore, the illustrative female connector 100 and the components explained in further detail are shown as examples to explain the construction and assembly of the female connector 100, rather than as limitations on the concepts disclosed herein.

[0083] As depicted, the explanatory female connector 100 includes a sleeve 30, an inner sleeve 20, a main sleeve 60, and a rocker latch arm 70. The rocker latch arm 70 can switch between a holding position and a released position like a light switch, thereby maintaining the holding position or the released position until the rocker latch arm moves to the other position.

[0084] Alternatively, the female connector 100 may optionally include one or more resilient members 75 for biasing the rocker latch arm 70 to a standard holding position as depicted. As in other embodiments, a portion of the one or more resilient members 75 cooperates with the rear end of the rocker latch arm 70 as shown. Likewise, the rocker latch arm 70 includes a pivot 70P adapted to pivot relative to the main cylinder 60, as well as a latch 70L and a rear end 70RE, but other arrangements are possible according to the disclosed concept. As depicted in this embodiment, the resilient member 75 is configured as a leaf spring with a collar seat. This resilient member 75 shown in this embodiment is described in more detail... Figure 21 and Figure 22 It is described in the text.

[0085] Figure 10 A dustproof plug 101 is depicted, aligned with the connection port (CP) of the female connector 100 for insertion. Specifically, the keyed portion 101KP of the dustproof plug 101 is aligned with the keyed feature 60KP of the main sleeve 60, as depicted. The keyed feature 60KP can have any suitable shape, such as a protrusion (i.e., a key) or a keyway. In this embodiment, the keyed feature 60KP is configured as a male keyed feature. The male keyed feature protrudes into the connection port (CP) and prevents incompatible connectors from being inserted into the connector port (CP). The keyed feature 60KP is aligned in the desired orientation relative to the latch 70L of the rocker latch arm 70 for mating with compatible devices.

[0086] As an explanation rather than a limitation, the rocker latch arm 70 is configured to face the keyed feature 60KF on the main sleeve (60). Therefore, the retaining features and keyed portions on suitable mating devices will have similar orientations to allow mating with the connection port. Thus, the retaining feature 101SF of the dust plug 101 is also located on the opposite side of the keyed portion 101KP, as... Figure 10 As shown (i.e., calibrated at approximately 180 degrees apart), when the keyed portion 101KP is aligned with the keyed feature 60KF of the main cylinder 60, the latch 70L of the rocker latch arm 70 is aligned with the fixing feature 101SF of the dust plug.

[0087] According to the disclosed concept, other alignment orientations between the keying feature 60KF of the female connector 100 and the rocker latch arm 70 are also possible, instead of being positioned on opposite sides of the main cylinder 60 (i.e., separated by approximately 180 degrees). For explanation, the alignment orientation between the keying feature 60KF and the rocker latch arm 70 can be approximately 45, 90, or 135 degrees in either rotational direction as needed.

[0088] Figure 11 The rocker latch arm 70 is shown translating as the dust plug 101 is inserted into the connection port (CP) of the female connector 100, as indicated by the left-pointing arrow. The external male connector (EPC) also translates the rocker latch arm (70) when inserted into the connection port (CP) of the female connector 100 in a similar manner, and is not shown for simplicity. As depicted, when the dust plug 101 or the external connector (EPC) is inserted into the connection port (CP), the housing pushes the latch 70L upward and presses the resilient member 75 during translation during insertion.

[0089] Once the dust plug 101 or external plug connector (EPC) is fully inserted into the connection port (CP), the latch 70L of the rocker latch arm 70 aligns with the fixing feature 101SF of the dust plug 101 or the fixing feature (SFE) of the external plug connector (EPC), and then the resilient member 75 biases the latch 70L to such a position as Figure 12 The arrow indicates the standard holding position, thereby securing the dust plug 101 or external plug connector (EPC) in the connection port (CP). Figure 13 An external male connector is shown that is received and held within the connection port (CP) of the female connector 100, so that the fiber optic sleeve (EPC-F) is mated with the fiber optic 92 disposed in the sleeve 30 for optical communication. Additionally, the female connector 100 can be configured such that the dust plug 101 or the external male connector (EPC) is slightly pushed outward when the rocker latch arm 70 is translated to the release position.

[0090] The retaining feature 101SF of the dustproof plug 101 or the retaining feature (SFE) of the external plug connector (SFC) can have any suitable geometry to cooperate with the latch 70L of the female connector 100. As an example, the retaining feature 101SF of the dustproof plug 101 or the retaining feature (SFE) of the external plug connector (EPC) can be constructed as a ramp, wherein the flange serves as the retaining feature, such as... Figure 10 or Figure 42As depicted herein, the ramp and flange allow for pushing and retaining features to secure the dust plug 101 or external plug connector (EPC) to the connection port (CP) of the female connector 100. If desired, the retaining feature may also include a flat portion disposed between the ramp and the flange. Of course, other retaining features or configurations are possible using the concepts disclosed herein.

[0091] The illustrated female connector 100 may optionally include additional components as needed. For illustration, the female connector may also include a rear spring pusher 50. The rear spring pusher 50 may perform one or more functions for the female connector 100. The rear spring pusher 50 is used to bias the inner cylinder 20 to a forward position relative to the main cylinder 20. Specifically, the rear spring pusher 50 clamps a spring 52 between the rear spring pusher 50 and the inner cylinder 20, thereby biasing the inner cylinder 20 to a forward position relative to the main cylinder 60.

[0092] The rear spring pusher 50 may also include a cable strain relief portion. The cable strain relief portion may have one or more openings leading to a cavity, which may be filled with an adhesive or similar material for securing the fiber optic cable 90 to the female connector 100. Alternatively, depending on the cable configuration, the strain of the cable 90 may be released to the outside of the rear spring pusher 50. Other methods for securing the fiber optic cable 90 to the female connector 100 are also possible. Furthermore, embodiments of the female connector 100 do not necessarily have the spring pusher 50; instead, if desired, the feature may be incorporated into the inner cylinder 20, but this could result in a more complex and difficult-to-manufacture component.

[0093] As depicted, if reinforcement of the female connector is required, the female connector 100 may optionally include a weatherproof collar 80. As is well known to those skilled in the art, ruggedized connectors are suitable for outdoor factory applications and provide environmental protection that may be experienced in outdoor environments. On the other hand, indoor optical connectors or optical connectors protected by an external structure do not require the same type of environmental protection as connectors used for outdoor applications.

[0094] The weatherproof collar 80 is sized to be used for a portion surrounding the main sleeve 60 or the female connector 100, such as Figure 9 As depicted, the weatherproof collar 80 covers actuators such as the rocker latch arm 70 and prevents dust, dirt, debris, moisture, etc., from entering the female connector 100 at the interface between the rocker latch arm 70 and the main cylinder 60, while allowing access to the connection port opening (CPO). The weatherproof collar 80 may also include markings for indicating to the user the latch release position of the rocker latch arm 70, such as... Figure 1 The markings may be tactile indications or raised portions on the weatherproof collar 80 for providing a tactile indication of the position of the latch release.

[0095] The weatherproof collar 80 can be formed of any suitable material that provides environmental protection for the female connector 100, while still allowing the rocker latch arm 70 to translate between the held position and the released position, and vice versa. The weatherproof collar 80 can be formed of any suitable material for the desired environment. As an example, the weatherproof collar 80 can be formed of an elastomeric material or other rubber-like material suitable for outdoor environments. Generally, using an elastomeric material for the weatherproof collar 80 allows the weatherproof collar 80 to deform under load while being able to recover (or nearly recover) its original shape when the load is removed. Furthermore, elastomeric materials have relatively high tear strength, high water resistance, and corrosion resistance, making them good candidates for the weatherproof collar 80. Therefore, the weatherproof collar 80 can be directly engaged with the actuator of the female connector to move from the standard held position to the released position during operation without tearing, and then return to its original shape, while still providing suitable protection for the weatherproof female connector against dirt, debris, moisture, etc.

[0096] The weatherproof collar 80 includes a longitudinal cylinder with open ends, allowing it to slide on a portion of the female connector 100. If desired, one or more open ends of the weatherproof collar 80 can be attached or sealed to the female connector 100 at the respective ends using any suitable method. Attachment or sealing of one or more ends of the weatherproof collar 80 can be performed using individual or non-individual components. As an example, one or more ends of the weatherproof collar 80 can be sealed using adhesives, crimping tape, clips such as open-ended rings, caps, thermal riveting, ultrasonic welding, etc.

[0097] The weatherproof collar 80 may also have other features to aid in attaching or sealing one or more ends. For example, the respective ends of the weatherproof collar 80 may include one or more ends having integrally formed sealing portions 80SL, such as... Figures 14 to 14B As shown.

[0098] As an explanation, the sealing portion 80SL may have an enlarged lip around its periphery at one or more ends, thereby providing compressible material to form a weatherproof seal at the end of the weatherproof collar 80. Similarly, portions of the female connector 100, such as the front or rear spring pusher 50 of the main sleeve 60, may have a geometry that cooperates with one or more ends of the weatherproof collar 80. For example, portions of the female connector 100 may have recesses or grooves for accommodating the sealing portion 80SL of the weatherproof collar 80. In other variations, portions of the female connector 100 may have a slightly non-circular external geometry in which the sealing portion 80SL of the weatherproof collar 80 engages. Other sealing portions 80SL of the weatherproof collar 80 may include reservoirs or cavities for receiving adhesives, acoustic welding materials, etc.

[0099] As a specific example, one or more covers 82 may be disposed at the interface between an end of the weatherproof collar 80 and the female connector 100. One or more covers 82 cooperate with the weatherproof collar 80 to attach to or seal their respective ends to prevent dirt, debris, or moisture. The covers 82 may compress the sealing portion 80SL of the weatherproof collar 80 to prevent dust, dirt, debris, moisture, etc., at one or more ends of the weatherproof collar 80.

[0100] The geometry on a corresponding portion of the female connector 100 may have geometries such as grooves, recesses, or shoulders that cooperate with structures on one or more caps 82 or other suitable components to aid in attaching a seal, such as by compressing a portion of one or more ends of the weatherproof collar 80. In addition to the geometry on the female connector 100, the geometry of one or more ends of the weatherproof collar 80 may be tailored to cooperate with the caps 82 or other components to attach or seal one or more ends. For example, one or more ends of the weatherproof collar 80 may have rounded ends, shaped similarly to a portion of an O-ring that can be compressed by the caps 82. Similarly, one or more ends of the weatherproof collar may have stepped shoulders and / or tapered ends that fit into grooves or recesses of the female connector 100 and cooperate with the caps 82 or other similar components. The caps 82 or other components may be rotatable to engage or disengage the weatherproof collar 80 according to design. In other embodiments, the caps 82 or other components may be pushed directly into place without rotation.

[0101] Figure 14A and Figure 14B A partial sectional view of the rear portion of the female connector 100, taken along an orthogonal section, is shown, depicting a structure having the characteristics of... Figure 14 Another optional weatherproof collar 80 with a different end profile. As shown in the figure. Figure 14A and Figure 14B The weatherproof collar 80 includes an end profile with a lower stepped shoulder that fits into a groove 60G in the main tube 60. This embodiment allows for a robust sealing interface between the weatherproof collar 80 and the main tube, and can be used with or without a cap 82 as needed. Of course, other methods or structures for attaching or sealing the weatherproof collar 80 to the female connector 100 are possible.

[0102] The sleeve 30 includes one or more holes 32 for attaching one or more optical fibers 92 known in the art, such as... Figure 31 Best illustrated. As an example, sleeve 30 can be an MT or MPO sleeve, but other suitable sleeves using the disclosed concepts are possible, such as one or more single-fiber sleeves. During assembly, sleeve 30 is disposed within inner cylinder 20.

[0103] The sleeve 30 can also be associated with other components as needed and may depend on the type of sleeve used by the female connector. In this embodiment, the sleeve 30 is an MT or a complementary sleeve that can mate with the external plug connector (EPC) using the alignment pin 30AP. Sleeves, such as Figure 13 As depicted, the alignment pin 30AP is sized to cooperate with the alignment hole 30B of the sleeve 30 and provides precise alignment between the mating sleeve of the female connector 100 and the external plug connector (EPC). If desired, other sleeves may not require the alignment pin 30AP, or the alignment pin may be provided on the external plug connector (EPC).

[0104] The sleeve 30 can also be associated with other components such as the spring 30S. As shown, the spring 30S can be used to bias the sleeve 30 into a forward position within the inner cylinder 20. The spring 30S can be captured within the inner cylinder 20 using the spring pusher 30SP.

[0105] Figure 8 Detailed views of the components of the explanatory female connector 100 are shown in Figures 15 to 24 As shown in the figure, and Figure 25 An alternative inner cylinder 20 is depicted as another example of how components can vary depending on the design. Specifically, Figure 15 and Figure 16 A detailed view of the inner cylinder 20 is shown. Figure 17 and Figure 18 A detailed view of the main cylinder 60 is shown. Figure 19 and Figure 20 A detailed view of the rocker latch arm 70 is shown, and Figure 21 and Figure 22 A detailed view of the elastic member 75 is shown, and Figure 23 and Figure 24 A detailed view of the spring pusher 50 is shown. Similar to... Figure 8 Another explanation of the female connector 100: the female connector 100 in Figures 41 to 52 The features and components of the explanatory female connector will now be explained in more detail.

[0106] like Figure 15 and Figure 16 In its best description, the inner cylinder 20 includes an inner cylinder rear end 21 and an inner cylinder front end 23, wherein the inner cylinder channel 22 extends from the inner cylinder rear end 21 to the inner cylinder front end 23. The inner cylinder rear end 21 of the inner cylinder 20 includes an inner cylinder rear end opening 21o sized to receive the sleeve 30.

[0107] To assemble the sleeve 30 into the inner cylinder 20 of the female connector 100, the optical fiber 92 of the fiber optic cable 90 is attached to the sleeve 30, and then, if in use, the alignment pin 30AP can be attached to the sleeve. The sleeve 30 with the alignment pin 30AP can be inserted into the inner cylinder 20 from the rear end opening 21o, and the spring 30S and the sleeve spring pusher 30SP slide forward, thus attaching the spring pusher 30SP to the inner cylinder 20 to bias the sleeve 30 into a forward position within the inner cylinder 20. The spring pusher 50 can be attached to the inner cylinder in any suitable manner.

[0108] like Figure 16 As shown in the optimal configuration, the inner cylinder includes a sleeve stop 20FS within the longitudinal channel 22, which acts as a forward stop for the sleeve 30. A spring 30S biases the sleeve 30 forward toward the sleeve stop 20FS. The sleeve stop 20FS restricts the forward movement of the sleeve 30 toward the inner cylinder 20, but allows the sleeve 30 to move backward as needed during mating under the restoring forward force of the spring 30S. When the female connector is mated for optical connection, the spring 30S helps maintain physical contact between the optical fibers 92 disposed within the sleeve 30.

[0109] The sleeve stop 20FS also defines a window (not numbered) for roughly aligning the sleeve 30 within the inner cylinder 20. In this embodiment, the sleeve window is a rectangular opening sized for the MT sleeve, but other shapes or sizes may be used depending on the type of sleeve used in the female connector 100. Specifically, the window adjacent to the sleeve stop 20FS is sized for the sleeve width FW and sleeve height FH, such as... Figure 31 As shown, the sleeve shoulder 30S is not allowed to pass through the window of the inner cylinder 20.

[0110] The disclosed female connector 100 allows the sleeve to move or "float" within the connector in a non-molded state, and also allows the sleeve to move in a limited manner during mating with a complementary device. This limited movement or "floating" of the sleeve during mating allows for two degrees of freedom of motion (X-axis and Y-axis) during mating. As an example, the sleeve is allowed to move in a limited range of motion with two degrees of freedom between approximately 100 and 400 micrometers to allow it to "float" in a non-molded state, but other limited ranges of motion for the sleeve within the connector are possible. For example, the sleeve may be allowed to move in a limited range of motion with two degrees of freedom (X and Y directions) between approximately 15 and 350 micrometers to allow it to "float" within the connector in a non-molded state, or the sleeve may be allowed to move in a limited range of motion with two degrees of freedom between approximately 200 and 300 micrometers to allow it to "float" within the connector in a non-molded state.

[0111] The inner cylinder 20 may also include one or more windows 20W or other components for cooperating with retaining components such as latches or protrusions on the spring pusher 30SP to retain the sleeve 30 and the spring 30S within the inner cylinder 20. The window 20W is sized to receive the latch or protrusion on the sleeve spring pusher 30SP, thereby providing a snap-fit ​​mechanism, but other mechanisms are also possible.

[0112] The inner cylinder 20 may also include one or more retaining features for attaching the spring pusher to the inner cylinder. For example, the retaining feature of the inner cylinder may be a latch arm 20LA including a latch 20L. The latch arm 20LA allows the spring pusher 50 to be attached to the inner cylinder 20 quickly and reliably by flexing inward until it reaches the correct position, where the latch arm springs open outward. Specifically, the latch 20L on the latch arm 20LA may engage with a retaining feature on the spring pusher 50, such as a window or recess 50W. However, other structures or arrangements for assembling the components are possible. Figure 15 and Figure 16 The inner cylinder 20 depicted also has a groove 20R for allowing a portion of the flexural elastic member 75 to be bent. In this embodiment, the inner cylinder 20 can be fitted into the main cylinder in either orientation (i.e., up or down) because the portion is symmetrical; however, the inner cylinder 20 can be configured such that it is fitted into the main cylinder 60 in only one orientation, such as... Figure 25 As shown.

[0113] The front portion of the channel 22 of the inner cylinder 20 may also include a mating connector housing alignment feature (not numbered). The size and shape of the mating connector housing alignment feature are configured to receive the front portion of the housing of an external plug connector (EPC) intended to be received within the connection port (CP) of the female connector 100, such as... Figure 13 As shown, this also aids in aligning the sleeve, ensuring that the alignment pin 30AP is properly aligned and engaged during mating. The inner cylinder 20 may also include a shoulder 20S. The shoulder 20S is sized to allow the spring 52 to be positioned within the shoulder 20S, thereby biasing the inner cylinder 20 into a forward position within the main cylinder 60. The shoulder 20S also cooperates with the channel 62 of the main cylinder 60 to ensure proper alignment of the inner cylinder 20 within the main cylinder 60.

[0114] The spring pusher 50 includes a channel 52 extending from the front end 53 to the rear end 51 of the spring pusher. A spring seat 50SS is located at the front end 53 and acts as a rear stop for limiting the spring 52, thereby biasing the inner cylinder 20 forward during assembly, as... Figure 14 As shown. The spring pusher 50 also includes one or more retaining features 50S, such as snaps for engaging with one or more windows 60W of the main cylinder 60.

[0115] like Figure 17 and Figure 18 As shown, the main tube 60 includes a main tube rear end 61 and a main tube front end 63, wherein the main tube channel 62 extends from the main tube rear end 61 to the main tube front end 63. The main tube rear end 61 includes a main tube rear end opening 61o sized to receive the inner tube 20, and the main tube front end 63 includes a connector port opening (CPO). The connector port opening opens to a connector port (CP) forming a cavity, the connector port being used to receive a portion of an external plug connector (EPC), such as... Figure 13 As shown.

[0116] The main cylinder 60 may also include a recess 60R shaped to receive a portion of the rocker latch arm 70. The shape and size of the recess may depend on the specific rocker latch arm 70 used. The main cylinder 60 may also include at least one slot 60S sized to receive a latch 70L of the rocker latch arm 70. When in the held position, the slot 60S allows a portion of the rocker latch arm 70 to protrude into the connection port (CP). As depicted in this embodiment, the slot 60S is disposed within the recess 60R.

[0117] The main cylinder 60 may also include a pivot 60P formed therein. The pivot 60R allows for pivotal attachment of the rocker latch arm 70. The pivot may allow direct attachment of the rocker latch arm or attachment retainer 70R to attach the rocker latch arm 70 as needed. The main cylinder 70 may also include a recessed window 60RW rearward of the pivot 60P, said recessed window for allowing the rear end 70RE of the rocker latch arm to engage with one or more resilient members 75. The main cylinder 60 may also include one or more retaining features for attachment. For example, the main cylinder 60 may include one or more windows 60W for attaching the main cylinder 60 to the spring pusher 50. However, other structures such as recesses or latches for securing the main cylinder 60 as needed are possible.

[0118] The main sleeve 60 has a generally circular or cylindrical sleeve, wherein one or more features are integrally formed in the original geometry of the cylindrical sleeve, as discussed and illustrated. For example, the main sleeve may also include a groove 60G. The groove 60G and / or other structures that may allow the end of the weatherproof collar 80 to be compressed at the front end using the cap 82. Similarly, the spring pusher 50 may have a groove 50G and / or other structures that may allow the end of the weatherproof collar 80 to be compressed at the rear end using the cap 82. As an explanation, beveled edges may be adjacent to the grooves 50G, 80G to prevent abrupt bending of the weatherproof collar, and one or more ridges may be on the other side of the grooves 50G, 80G to allow the cap 82 to be seated into the female connector 100.

[0119] The female connector 100 may include an interface between the inner cylinder 20 and the main cylinder 60, the interface having one or more alignment features for rotational alignment during assembly. While complementary alignment features on the inner cylinder 20 may be protrusions, such as male keys and keyways on the main cylinder 60, the alignment features may have their geometry reversed appropriately. Furthermore, the inner cylinder 20 and the main cylinder 60 do not require alignment features; however, if desired, the use of alignment features allows the inner cylinder 20 and the main cylinder 60 to be assembled in only a single orientation.

[0120] If desired, the main tube 60 may also include other features. For example, the main tube 60 may also include a suitable keying feature. As an example, the main tube 20 includes a keying feature (60KF). The keying feature 60KF is disposed within the connection port (CP). One arrangement may have the keying feature 60KF integrally formed in the main tube 60. For example, the keying feature 60KF may be a male keying feature. In this case, the keying feature 60KF protrudes from the inner wall of the main tube 60 to cooperate with the keying portion 101KP on the dust plug 101, such as... Figure 10 As shown, or in conjunction with the keyed portion KP on the external plug connector (EPC), such as Figure 53 As shown. The keying feature 60KF of the main cylinder may have a specific orientation relative to the rocker latch arm 70. For example, the rocker latch arm 70 may be located on the opposite side of the keying feature 60KP on the main cylinder 60 (i.e., about 180 degrees apart), but other orientations are also possible.

[0121] The main tube 60 or inner tube 20 can be formed from any suitable material such as polymers, metals, composites, etc. The material chosen may depend on the construction or the intended environment. For example, if the female connector is intended for outdoor use, the main tube 20 may be formed from a UV-stabilized material. Similarly, the material of the inner tube 20 may depend on the method used to secure the cable 90 to the female connector 100. For example, if the inner tube 20 is intended to receive adhesive for securing the cable 90, the connector housing 20 will be made of a suitable material to cooperate with the adhesive. Likewise, other components may use different materials depending on the required characteristics or desired geometry.

[0122] Figure 19 and Figure 20 A rocker latch arm 70 as discussed herein is depicted. This rocker latch arm 70 includes a through-hole (unnumbered) at a pivot 70P for attaching the rocker latch arm 70 to the main cylinder 60 using a retainer 70R such as a pin, screw, etc. The rear end 70RE of the rocker latch arm 70 includes a spring pusher 70SP with an alignment feature 70AF for engaging with… Figure 21 and Figure 22The elastic member 75 shown cooperates. The front end 70FE of the rocker latch arm 70 includes a latch 70L. This embodiment of the rocker latch arm 70 additionally includes a pull-back feature 70PBF at the front end 70FE. The pull-back feature 70PBF helps to retain the external plug connector (EPC) in the connection port (CP) of the female connector 100 when a pulling force is applied to the external plug connector (EPC), thereby preventing accidental removal of the external plug connector (EPC) from the female connector 100. However, if desired, the female connector 100 can be designed such that the female connector 100 releases the external plug connector (EPC) with a predetermined pull-out force to prevent damage to the female connector 100.

[0123] Figure 21 and Figure 22 Another resilient member 75 is depicted for use with the female connector 100 discussed herein. This resilient member 75 is configured as a leaf spring including a collar 75C having a cantilever 75CA extending therefrom. The flexure of the cantilever 75 relative to the collar 75C provides a restoring spring force via the spring actuation member 70SP of the rocker latch arm 70. The cantilever 75CA includes an alignment feature 75AF for cooperating with an alignment feature 70AF on the rocker latch arm 70, such as... Figure 11 As shown. The collar 75c is sized such that it can slide onto the inner cylinder 20 and be used to secure the resilient member 75. The collar 75A includes an alignment portion 75AP for assisting in rotational alignment of the resilient member 75 on the inner cylinder 20. As discussed herein, the female connector 100 may also have different resilient members or configurations.

[0124] Figure 23 and Figure 24 This is a detailed view of the rear spring pusher 50. As discussed, the spring pusher 50 includes a channel 52 from the front end 53 of the spring pusher to the rear end 51 of the spring pusher. The spring pusher 50SS also includes one or more retaining features 50W for attachment to the inner cylinder 20. As depicted, the retaining features 50W are for cooperating with the latch arm 20LA of the inner cylinder 20, but other structures for attaching the inner cylinder 20 to the spring pusher 50 are possible. The spring pusher 50 also includes a rear portion having a stepped profile for attaching one or more heat shrink heads 97 or protective covers 99. For example, the spring pusher 50 may include a first portion 57 of a first diameter for attaching a portion of the heat shrink head 97 to provide an environmental seal between the cable 90 and the female connector 100. The first portion 57 may include one or more flanges 20R for robustly securing the heat shrink head 97. Similarly, the spring pusher 50 may have a second portion 55 of a second diameter for attaching the connector guard 99, and may also have a flange 50R if required.

[0125] Figure 25 Another inner cylinder 20 is depicted for use with the female connector 100 disclosed herein. This inner cylinder 20 has a keying feature 20KF such that it can only be correctly fitted within the main cylinder 60 in one orientation. Furthermore, the inner cylinder 20 may have a geometry tailored for a specific resilient member 75 in the female connector 100. This inner cylinder 20 also includes latching arms 20LA with different orientations for attachment to the spring pusher 50, but they operate in a manner similar to that described herein. Other geometries may be used with the inner cylinder 20 or with other components using the disclosed concepts.

[0126] Figures 26 to 40 An illustrative method for manufacturing an optical fiber cable assembly 200 having a female connector 100 as disclosed herein is shown. The cable assembly 200 is formed by terminating a cable 90 using the female connector 100. Other methods may be used to terminate the cable 90 using the female connector.

[0127] Figure 26 The desired components of the female connector 100 are depicted sliding onto the cable 90, which has an optical fiber 92. As depicted, the protective cover 99, heat shrink head 97, and cap 82 are threaded onto the cable 90 in the desired order. The cable 90 can be fabricated in any suitable manner and may vary depending on the type of cable being terminated. Fabricating the cable 90 typically involves exposing the optical fiber 92 and fabricating any other cable components for termination, such as a reinforcing member 94 or a cable sheath 98, as required. Figure 27 As best shown, cable 90 is fabricated such that optical fiber 92 and reinforcing member 94 extend beyond cable sheath 98. Reinforcing member 94 can be of any suitable type, such as rigid glass-reinforced plastic (GRP) or flexible yarn such as aramid or glass fiber. Cable construction can affect how cable 90 is secured to female connector 100 and can be achieved in a variety of ways.

[0128] Figure 27 A plug 85 and a spring actuator 50 are depicted positioned on the cable 90. The optional plug 80, which can be placed around the optical fiber 92, prevents adhesives and the like from leaking into the front of the spring actuator 50 of the female connector 100. The front of the spring actuator provides an area that allows the optical fiber to move freely as needed during use. Figure 28 The sleeve spring pusher 30SP and sleeve spring 30S are depicted being threaded onto the optical fiber 92.

[0129] Figure 29The diagram depicts attaching one or more optical fibers 92 of a cable 90 to a sleeve 30. The sleeve 30 includes a plurality of holes 32 for receiving one or more optical fibers 92. The optical fibers 92 are secured to the sleeve 30 in a suitable manner, such as with an adhesive like a UV or thermosetting material, but other processes are also possible. Subsequently, the end faces of the sleeve 30 may be polished or coated as is known in the art. Figure 30 Alignment pin 30AP and / or pin retainer attached to sleeve 30 are shown, if used.

[0130] Figure 31 This is a detailed view of the sleeve 30, showing the optical fiber 92 on the front side of the sleeve 30. As depicted, the sleeve 30 may include a sleeve body having a sleeve shoulder 30S at the rear and an alignment hole 30B for receiving an alignment pin, as is known in the art. If a sleeve guard 67 is used, the optical fiber 92 is passed through the sleeve guard 67 before the optical fiber is inserted into and attached to the sleeve 30.

[0131] Figure 32 The passage 22 of the inner cylinder 20 is depicted by inserting the sleeve 30 into the inner cylinder 20 through the rear opening 21o of the inner cylinder. The sleeve spring 30S and the sleeve spring pusher 30SP slide upward into the inner shell, such that the spring pusher 30SP is attached to the inner cylinder 20, as discussed herein. Thus, the sleeve 30 is biased to a forward position by the sleeve spring 30S. Figure 33 The inner cylinder 20 attached to the rear spring pusher 50 and the capture spring 52 between the inner cylinder 20 and the rear spring pusher 50 are depicted.

[0132] Cable 90 can be secured to the spring pusher at any suitable step during the process. The rear spring pusher 50 may have one or more apertures 50A for holding an adhesive, such as epoxy, glue, resin, radiation-curable agent, polymer (cured using ultrasonic or induction welding processes), or other such materials, to secure cable 90 to the rear spring pusher 50. The adhesive, etc., is placed in the rear spring pusher 50 to secure cable 90 to the female connector 100. A second aperture on the spring pusher 50 allows air to escape and the adhesive, etc., to draw in and fill the channel 52 of the spring pusher 522 around the cable 90 core. If desired, the adhesive can secure cable 90, one or more optical fibers 92, and one or more reinforcing members 94 to the female connector 100 for strain relief. As used herein, "adhesive" means any suitable material used to secure cable 90 to the connector housing 20.

[0133] Of course, the spring pusher 50 can be secured to the cable 90 or a portion of the cable 90 in any suitable manner. For example, if desired, the rear spring pusher 50 can be terminated or secured to the reinforcing member 94 of the cable 90 using other methods such as crimping. The type of reinforcing member 94 may depend on the type of cable terminated to the connector and may include tension yarn, fiberglass rods, etc. The concept of the female connector 100 can be modified as needed to use any suitable cable type, such as by modifying the channel and / or other components of the spring pusher 50.

[0134] Fiber optic cable assemblies can be formed by securing the fiber optic cable to the female connector in any suitable manner, such as using adhesives, crimping, etc., but other methods of attaching the cable to the connector are also possible. Therefore, the disclosed connector design is highly adaptable to a wide variety of fiber optic cables of various shapes and / or constructions to meet different customer requirements or preferences. For example, the connector can be terminated to fiber optic cables with circular or non-circular cross-sections as needed. Similarly, the connector can be terminated to cables with rigid reinforcing members such as GRP or flexible yarn-like reinforcing members such as aramid, glass fiber, etc.

[0135] In other variations, the outer sheath or reinforcing member can be removed to fit within the channel 52 of the rear spring pusher 50, to accommodate oversized cables or to conform the cable to the channel 52. Furthermore, removing the cable 90 can improve adhesion to the cable 90.

[0136] Figure 34 The image depicts one or more resilient members 75 placed on the female connector 100. In this embodiment, the resilient member 75 slides onto the inner cylinder 20, but other configurations may place the resilient member 75 in place after attaching the main cylinder. Figure 35 The illustration depicts the inner cylinder 20 being placed inside the main cylinder 60 from the rear opening 61o of the main cylinder, which is sized to receive the inner cylinder. Figure 36 The image depicts the rocker latch arm 70 being attached to the main cylinder 60.

[0137] Figure 37 A heat shrink head 97 is shown, which can be mounted on the rear of the rear spring pusher 50 and above a portion of the cable 90. The rear spring pusher 50 may have one or more flanges for providing a gripping surface for the heat shrink head 97. Using a heat shrink head helps to create a weatherproof interface between the cable 90 and the connector 100. Any suitable size or type of heat shrink head, such as a laminated heat shrink head, can be used as needed for sealing or securing components. Figure 38 A weatherproof collar 80 is shown placed around a portion of the main tube 60, and Figure 39 A cap 82 is depicted attached to the corresponding end of the weatherproof collar 80.

[0138] Figure 40A protective cover 99 is depicted attached to the rear of the rear spring pusher 50. If desired, a guard edge may also be used to provide a gripping surface for the protective cover 99. The protective cover 99 may not be omitted if desired, but it can provide improved lateral pull performance for the cable assembly.

[0139] The disclosed concept also enables a smaller footprint for the female connector 100. As an example, the female connector 100 may have an outer diameter of 18 mm or less, or even less than 15 mm, when the outer diameter is cut laterally along the longitudinal axis of the female connector when viewed inward toward the connection port opening (CPO), but other sizes are also possible.

[0140] The explanatory female connector 100 avoids bulky mating structures, such as coupling nuts or bayonets used with conventional connectors. In other words, conventional connectors have threaded, bayonet, or push-pull connections that require finger access to connect and disconnect. By eliminating structures such as threaded coupling nuts or bayonets (which are separate components that must rotate around the connector), the size of the female connector can be reduced, while also allowing for quick and easy mating with external plug connectors. Furthermore, removing the dedicated coupling nut from conventional connectors allows for a smaller connector footprint and a more compact connector array.

[0141] Other variations and modifications are possible for the disclosed female connector concept. As an explanation, Figures 41 to 52 A view depicting another illustrative female fiber optic connector, the connector having a similar shape to... Figure 8 The actuator of the explanatory female fiber optic connector actuator, but using two elastic members 75 for biasing the actuator to a standard holding position, such as Figure 4C and Figure 4D As described. For example Figure 42 As shown in the cross-sectional view, this design of the female connector 100 is similar to the embodiments described herein, but may be easier to assemble and / or manufacture, and most of the components are the same as or similar to those described herein.

[0142] As an explanation, this embodiment of the female connector 100 also includes a spring seat 29 for the elastic member 52, such as Figure 42 As depicted. Integrated into the shoulder within the inner cylinder 20 and... Figure 15 The one shown Figure 8 Compared to the spring seat of the connector, the spring seat 29 is a separate component used to aid in the assembly of the female connector 100. The spring seat 29 is configured to slide past the rear end 21 of the inner cylinder 20 and be attached by a collar that rotates relative to the inner cylinder 20, thereby allowing the workpiece to move until attachment. Using a separate spring seat 29 allows for greater space for fiber movement or manipulation during assembly. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the inner cylinder 20 does not include components such as those cooperating with the spring pusher 50. Figure 15The latch arm is shown. The sealing portion 80SL may have a lip that expands around the periphery, thereby providing compressible material to form a weatherproof seal at the end of the weatherproof collar 80.

[0143] Figures 43 to 46 Depicting something similar to Figure 8 Inner cylinder 20 Figure 41 The inner cylinder 20 of this embodiment. This embodiment of the female connector 100 includes a spring seat 29, which is a separate component as shown. The inner cylinder 20 includes an inner cylinder rear end 21 and an inner cylinder front end 23, wherein an inner cylinder channel 22 extends from the inner cylinder rear end 21 to the inner cylinder front end 23. The inner cylinder rear end 21 of the inner cylinder 20 includes an inner cylinder rear end opening 21o sized for receiving the sleeve 30.

[0144] To assemble the sleeve 30 into the inner cylinder 20 of the female connector 100, the optical fiber 92 of the fiber optic cable 90 is attached to the sleeve 30, and then, if used, the alignment pin 30AP can be attached to the sleeve. The sleeve 30 with the alignment pin 30AP can be inserted into the inner cylinder 20 from the rear end opening 21o, and the spring 30S and the sleeve spring pusher 30SP slide forward, so that the spring pusher 30SP is attached to the inner cylinder 20 using the window 20W for snap-fit ​​assembly and biases the sleeve 30 into a forward position within the inner cylinder 20, as discussed herein.

[0145] The inner cylinder 20 also includes a sleeve stop 20FS within the longitudinal channel 22, which acts as a front stop for the sleeve 30, such as... Figure 45 and Figure 46 As shown. Spring 30S biases sleeve 30 forward against sleeve stop 20FS. Sleeve stop 20FS restricts the forward movement of sleeve 30 towards the inner cylinder 20, but allows sleeve 30 to move backward as needed during mating under the restoring forward force of spring 30S. When the female connector is mated for optical connection, spring 30S helps maintain physical contact between the optical fibers 92 disposed in sleeve 30. Sleeve stop 20FS also defines a window (not numbered) for coarse alignment of sleeve 30 within inner cylinder 20. In this embodiment, sleeve window is a rectangular opening sized for MT sleeve, but other shapes or sizes may be used depending on the type of sleeve used in female connector 100. As discussed herein, the window adjacent to sleeve stop 20FS is sized for sleeve width FW and sleeve height FH, while not allowing sleeve shoulder 30S to pass through the window of inner cylinder 20. Similarly, this female connector 100 allows the sleeve to move or "float" within the connector in an unmated state, and allows the sleeve to move in a limited manner during mating with the complementary device.

[0146] Similarly, this inner cylinder 20 has a keying feature 20KF, which allows it to be correctly assembled within the main cylinder 60 in only one orientation. Furthermore, the inner cylinder 20 may have a geometry customized for a specific elastic member 75 used in the female connector 100.

[0147] Figure 47 It shows Figure 41 The main tube 60 includes a main tube rear end 61 and a main tube front end 63, wherein a main tube channel 62 extends from the main tube rear end 61 to the main tube front end 63. The main tube rear end 61 includes a main tube rear end opening 61o sized to receive the inner tube 20, and the main tube front end 63 includes a connector port opening (CPO). The connector port opening opens to a connector port (CP) forming a cavity for receiving a portion of an external plug connector (EPC).

[0148] The main cylinder 60 may also include a recess 60R shaped to receive a portion of the rocker latch arm 70. The shape and size of the recess may depend on the specific rocker latch arm 70 used. The main cylinder 60 may include at least one slot 60S sized to receive a latch 70L of the rocker latch arm 70. When in the held position, the slot 60S allows a portion of the rocker latch arm 70 to protrude into the connection port (CP). As depicted in this embodiment, the slot 60S is disposed within the recess 60R.

[0149] The main cylinder 60 also includes a pivot 60P formed therein. The pivot 60R allows for pivotal attachment of an actuator or rocker latch arm 70. The pivot may allow direct attachment of the rocker latch arm or attachment retainer 70R to attach the rocker latch arm 70 as needed. The main cylinder 70 may also include a recessed window 60RW rearward of the pivot 60P, the recessed window being used to allow the rear end 70RE of the rocker latch arm to engage with one or more resilient members 75. The main cylinder 60 may also include one or more retaining features for attachment. For example, the main cylinder 60 may include one or more windows 60W for attaching the main cylinder 60 to the spring pusher 50. This embodiment of the main cylinder 60 also includes a flexural slot 60FS for facilitating assembly.

[0150] The main sleeve 60 has a generally circular or cylindrical sleeve, with one or more features integrally formed in the original geometry of the cylindrical sleeve, as discussed and illustrated. For example, the main sleeve may also include a groove 60G. The groove 60G and / or may allow compression of the end of the weatherproof collar 80 at the front end using a cap 82, or other structures if required to receive adhesives, welding materials, etc. For example, the weatherproof collar 80 may have a sealing portion 80SL having a lip, such as an O-ring type, that expands around a periphery, thereby providing compressible material to form a weatherproof seal at the end of the weatherproof collar 80. Similarly, the spring pusher 50 may have a groove 50G and / or other structures that allow compression of the end of the weatherproof collar 80 at the rear end using a cap 82.

[0151] Figure 41 The female connector 100 may include other features or structures discussed. For example, the female connector 100 may include an interface between the inner cylinder 20 and the main cylinder 60, the interface having one or more calibration features for rotational alignment during assembly.

[0152] Figure 48 and Figure 49 A detailed view of the rocker latch arm 70 of the female connector 100 is depicted. This rocker latch arm 70 includes a through-hole (unnumbered) at a pivot 70P for attaching the rocker latch arm 70 to the main cylinder 60 using a retainer 70R such as a pin, screw, etc. The rear end 70RE of the rocker latch arm 70 includes two spring pushers 70SP located on outer wings on opposite sides, each spring pusher 70SP having a corresponding alignment feature 70AF for cooperation with an elastic member 75 such as a coil spring. The front end 70FE of the rocker latch arm 70 includes a latch 70L, as discussed herein.

[0153] Figure 50 An end view of the female connector 100 is shown. As shown, the main cylinder 20 includes a keying feature 60KF disposed within the connection port (CP). The keying feature 20KF is integrally formed in the main cylinder 60 as a male keying feature. In this case, the keying feature 60KF protrudes from the inner wall of the main cylinder 60 to cooperate with a keying portion 101KP on the dust plug 101 or with a keying portion KP on the external plug connector (EPC). The keying feature 60KF of the main cylinder may have any suitable orientation relative to the rocker latch arm 70. In this case, the rocker latch arm 70 may be disposed on the opposite side of the keying feature 60KP on the main cylinder 60 (i.e., approximately 180 degrees apart).

[0154] The disclosed concepts can be used with any suitable fiber optic cable using simple modifications to one or more components, as needed. As an example, Figure 51A female connector constructed for a flat tap cable 90 is shown. As illustrated, this embodiment uses a modified spring actuator 50 with a rear portion sized to receive a channel for the flat tap cable. As discussed, the fiber optic cable 90, reinforcing member 94, and / or fiber optic cable 92 can be secured using adhesive injected into the spring actuator 50 from an aperture located behind the plug 85. The plug 85 prevents the adhesive from pulling forward into the plug 85. Different fiber optic cables 90 may also require different cable fabrications for use with the female connector 100.

[0155] Figure 52 and Figure 53 Depicting Figure 3 The diagram shows a detailed perspective view of the external plug connector (EPC). The external plug connector (EPC) may include one or more O-rings 65 for sealing mating optical connections.

[0156] Although this disclosure has been illustrated and described with reference to illustrative embodiments and specific examples thereof, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that other embodiments and examples may perform similar functions and / or achieve similar results. All such equivalent embodiments and examples are within the spirit and scope of this disclosure and are intended to be covered by the appended claims. It will also be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations of the disclosed concepts may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Therefore, this application is intended to cover modifications and variations falling within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A female fiber optic connector (100) having a connection port (CP) for receiving a mating fiber optic plug, the female fiber optic connector comprising: A sleeve (30) includes one or more holes (32) for receiving one or more optical fibers; Inner cylinder (20), the inner cylinder includes an inner cylinder rear end (21) and an inner cylinder front end (23), wherein an inner cylinder channel (22) extends from the inner cylinder rear end (21) to the inner cylinder front end (23), wherein the inner cylinder rear end (21) includes an inner cylinder rear end opening (21o) sized for receiving the sleeve (30); The main tube (60) includes a main tube rear end (61) and a main tube front end (63), wherein a main tube channel (62) extends from the main tube rear end (61) to the main tube front end (63), wherein the main tube rear end (61) includes a main tube rear end opening (61o) sized to receive the inner tube (20), and the main tube front end (63) includes a connection port opening (CPO); as well as A rocker latch arm (70) includes a pivot (70P) adapted to pivot the rocker latch arm (70) relative to the main cylinder (60), the rocker latch arm (70) being configured to switch between a release position and a hold position.

2. The female optical fiber connector as described in claim 1, further comprising: One or more resilient members (75) are used to bias the rocker latch arm (70) to the holding position.

3. A female fiber optic connector (100) having a connection port (CP) for receiving a mating fiber optic plug, the female fiber optic connector comprising: A sleeve (30) includes one or more holes (32) for receiving one or more optical fibers; Inner cylinder (20), the inner cylinder includes an inner cylinder rear end (21) and an inner cylinder front end (23), wherein an inner cylinder channel (22) extends from the inner cylinder rear end (21) to the inner cylinder front end (23), wherein the inner cylinder rear end (21) includes an inner cylinder rear end opening (21o) sized for receiving the sleeve (30); The main tube (60) includes a main tube rear end (61) and a main tube front end (63), wherein a main tube channel (62) extends from the main tube rear end (61) to the main tube front end (63), wherein the main tube rear end (61) includes a main tube rear end opening (61o) sized to receive the inner tube (20), and the main tube front end (63) includes a connection port opening (CPO); A rocker latch arm (70) includes a pivot (70P) adapted to pivot the rocker latch arm (70) relative to the main cylinder (60), the rocker latch arm (70) being configured to switch between a release position and a hold position; as well as One or more resilient members (75) are used to bias the rocker latch arm (70) to the holding position.

4. The female fiber optic connector of claim 2, wherein a portion of the one or more resilient members (75) cooperates with the rear end (70RE) of the rocker latch arm (70).

5. A female fiber optic connector (100) having a connection port (CP) for receiving a mating fiber optic plug, the female fiber optic connector comprising: A sleeve (30) includes one or more holes (32) for receiving one or more optical fibers; Inner cylinder (20), the inner cylinder includes an inner cylinder rear end (21) and an inner cylinder front end (23), wherein an inner cylinder channel (22) extends from the inner cylinder rear end (21) to the inner cylinder front end (23), wherein the inner cylinder rear end (21) includes an inner cylinder rear end opening (21o) sized for receiving the sleeve (30); The main tube (60) includes a main tube rear end (61) and a main tube front end (63), wherein a main tube channel (62) extends from the main tube rear end (61) to the main tube front end (63), wherein the main tube rear end (61) includes a main tube rear end opening (61o) sized to receive the inner tube (20), and the main tube front end (63) includes a connection port opening (CPO); A rocker latch arm (70) includes a pivot (70P) adapted to pivot the rocker latch arm (70) relative to the main cylinder (60) and includes a latch (70L) and a rear end (70RE), the rocker latch arm (70) being configured to switch between a released position and a held position; as well as One or more resilient members (75) for biasing the rocker latch arm (70) to the holding position, wherein a portion of the one or more resilient members (75) cooperates with the rear end (70RE) of the rocker latch arm (70).

6. The female optical fiber connector as claimed in claim 1, further comprising: A rear spring pusher (50) is adapted to be attached to the main cylinder (60).

7. A female fiber optic connector (100) having a connection port (CP) for receiving a mating fiber optic plug, the female fiber optic connector comprising: A sleeve (30) includes one or more holes (32) for receiving one or more optical fibers; Inner cylinder (20), the inner cylinder includes an inner cylinder rear end (21) and an inner cylinder front end (23), wherein an inner cylinder channel (22) extends from the inner cylinder rear end (21) to the inner cylinder front end (23), wherein the inner cylinder rear end (21) includes an inner cylinder rear end opening (21o) sized for receiving the sleeve (30); The main tube (60) includes a main tube rear end (61) and a main tube front end (63), wherein a main tube channel (62) extends from the main tube rear end (61) to the main tube front end (63), wherein the main tube rear end (61) includes a main tube rear end opening (61o) sized to receive the inner tube (20), and the main tube front end (63) includes a connection port opening (CPO); A rocker latch arm (70) includes a pivot (70P) adapted to pivot the rocker latch arm (70) relative to the main cylinder (60) and includes a latch (70L) and a rear end (70RE), the rocker latch arm (70) being configured to switch between a released position and a held position; One or more resilient members (75) for biasing the rocker latch arm (70) to the holding position, wherein a portion of the one or more resilient members (75) cooperates with the rear end (70RE) of the rocker latch arm (70); as well as A rear spring pusher (50) is adapted to be attached to the main cylinder (60).

8. The female optical fiber connector as claimed in claim 1, further comprising: A spring (52) is used to bias the inner cylinder (20) to a forward position.

9. A female fiber optic connector (100) having a connection port (CP) for receiving a mating fiber optic plug, the female fiber optic connector comprising: A sleeve (30) includes one or more holes (32) for receiving one or more optical fibers; Inner cylinder (20), the inner cylinder includes an inner cylinder rear end (21) and an inner cylinder front end (23), wherein an inner cylinder channel (22) extends from the inner cylinder rear end (21) to the inner cylinder front end (23), wherein the inner cylinder rear end (21) includes an inner cylinder rear end opening (21o) sized for receiving the sleeve (30); The main tube (60) includes a main tube rear end (61) and a main tube front end (63), wherein a main tube channel (62) extends from the main tube rear end (61) to the main tube front end (63), wherein the main tube rear end (61) includes a main tube rear end opening (61o) sized to receive the inner tube (20), and the main tube front end (63) includes a connection port opening (CPO); A rocker latch arm (70) includes a pivot (70P) adapted to pivot the rocker latch arm (70) relative to the main cylinder (60) and includes a latch (70L) and a rear end (70RE), the rocker latch arm (70) being configured to switch between a released position and a held position; One or more resilient members (75) for biasing the rocker latch arm (70) to the holding position, wherein a portion of the one or more resilient members (75) cooperates with the rear end (70RE) of the rocker latch arm (70); Rear spring pusher (50); and A spring (52) is used to bias the inner cylinder (20) to a forward position in the main cylinder (60).

10. The female optical fiber connector as claimed in claim 1, further comprising: A weatherproof collar (80) is provided, the weatherproof collar being sized to be positioned around a portion of the main tube (60).

11. A female fiber optic connector (100) having a connection port (CP) for receiving a mating fiber optic plug, the female fiber optic connector comprising: A sleeve (30) includes one or more holes (32) for receiving one or more optical fibers; Inner cylinder (20), the inner cylinder includes an inner cylinder rear end (21) and an inner cylinder front end (23), wherein an inner cylinder channel (22) extends from the inner cylinder rear end (21) to the inner cylinder front end (23), wherein the inner cylinder rear end (21) includes an inner cylinder rear end opening (21o) sized for receiving the sleeve (30); The main tube (60) includes a main tube rear end (61) and a main tube front end (63), wherein a main tube channel (62) extends from the main tube rear end (61) to the main tube front end (63), wherein the main tube rear end (61) includes a main tube rear end opening (61o) sized to receive the inner tube (20), and the main tube front end (63) includes a connection port opening (CPO); A rocker latch arm (70) includes a pivot (70P) adapted to pivot the rocker latch arm (70) relative to the main cylinder (60), the rocker latch arm (70) being configured to switch between a release position and a hold position; One or more resilient members (75) for biasing the rocker latch arm (70) to the holding position, wherein a portion of the one or more resilient members (75) cooperates with the rear end (70RE) of the rocker latch arm (70); A rear spring pusher (50) adapted to be attached to the main cylinder (60); A spring (52) is used to bias the inner cylinder (20) to a forward position in the main cylinder (60); as well as A weatherproof collar (80) is sized to be positioned around a portion of the main tube (60).

12. The female fiber optic connector of claim 1, wherein a portion of one or more resilient members (75) is disposed between the inner cylinder (20) and the rocker latch arm (70).

13. A female fiber optic connector (100) having a connection port (CP) for receiving a mating fiber optic plug, the female fiber optic connector comprising: A sleeve (30) includes one or more holes (32) for receiving one or more optical fibers; Inner cylinder (20), the inner cylinder includes an inner cylinder rear end (21) and an inner cylinder front end (23), wherein an inner cylinder channel (22) extends from the inner cylinder rear end (21) to the inner cylinder front end (23), wherein the inner cylinder rear end (21) includes an inner cylinder rear end opening (21o) sized for receiving the sleeve (30); The main tube (60) includes a main tube rear end (61) and a main tube front end (63), wherein a main tube channel (62) extends from the main tube rear end (61) to the main tube front end (63), wherein the main tube rear end (61) includes a main tube rear end opening (61o) sized to receive the inner tube (20), and the main tube front end (63) includes a connection port opening (CPO); A rocker latch arm (70) includes a pivot (70P) adapted to pivot the rocker latch arm (70) relative to the main cylinder (60), the rocker latch arm (70) being configured to switch between a release position and a hold position; One or more resilient members (75) for biasing the rocker latch arm (70) to the holding position, wherein a portion of the one or more resilient members (75) is disposed between the inner cylinder (20) and the rocker latch arm (70); A rear spring pusher (50) adapted to be attached to the main cylinder (60); A spring (52) is used to bias the inner cylinder (20) to a forward position in the main cylinder (60); as well as A weatherproof collar (80) is sized to be positioned around a portion of the main tube (60).

14. The female optical fiber connector as claimed in claim 6, wherein the rear spring pusher (50) includes a cable strain relief portion.

15. A female fiber optic connector (100) having a connection port (CP) for receiving a mating fiber optic plug, the female fiber optic connector comprising: A sleeve (30) includes one or more holes (32) for receiving one or more optical fibers; Inner cylinder (20), the inner cylinder includes an inner cylinder rear end (21) and an inner cylinder front end (23), wherein an inner cylinder channel (22) extends from the inner cylinder rear end (21) to the inner cylinder front end (23), wherein the inner cylinder rear end (21) includes an inner cylinder rear end opening (21o) sized for receiving the sleeve (30); The main tube (60) includes a main tube rear end (61) and a main tube front end (63), wherein a main tube channel (62) extends from the main tube rear end (61) to the main tube front end (63), wherein the main tube rear end (61) includes a main tube rear end opening (61o) sized to receive the inner tube (20), and the main tube front end (63) includes a connection port opening (CPO); A rocker latch arm (70) includes a pivot (70P) adapted to pivot the rocker latch arm (70) relative to the main cylinder (60), the rocker latch arm (70) being configured to switch between a release position and a hold position; One or more resilient members (75) for biasing the rocker latch arm (70) to the holding position, wherein a portion of the one or more resilient members (75) is disposed between the inner cylinder (20) and the rocker latch arm (70); A rear spring pusher (50) including a cable strain relief portion, wherein the rear spring pusher (50) is adapted to be attached to the main cylinder (60); A spring (52) is used to bias the inner cylinder to a forward position in the main cylinder (60); as well as A weatherproof collar (80) is sized to be positioned around a portion of the main tube (60).

16. The female optical fiber connector as claimed in claim 1, wherein the main tube (60) further includes a keying feature (60KF).

17. A female fiber optic connector (100) having a connection port (CP) for receiving a mating fiber optic plug, the female fiber optic connector comprising: A sleeve (30) includes one or more holes (32) for receiving one or more optical fibers; Inner cylinder (20), the inner cylinder includes an inner cylinder rear end (21) and an inner cylinder front end (23), wherein an inner cylinder channel (22) extends from the inner cylinder rear end (21) to the inner cylinder front end (23), wherein the inner cylinder rear end (21) includes an inner cylinder rear end opening (21o) sized for receiving the sleeve (30); The main tube (60) includes a main tube rear end (61) and a main tube front end (63), wherein a main tube channel (62) extends from the main tube rear end (61) to the main tube front end (63), wherein the main tube rear end (61) includes a main tube rear end opening (61o) sized for receiving the inner tube (20), and the main tube front end (63) includes a connection port opening (CPO), and the main tube includes a keying feature (60KF); A rocker latch arm (70) includes a pivot (70P) adapted to pivot the rocker latch arm (70) relative to the main cylinder (60), the rocker latch arm (70) being configured to switch between a release position and a hold position; One or more resilient members (75) for biasing the rocker latch arm (70) to the holding position, wherein a portion of the one or more resilient members (75) is disposed between the inner cylinder (20) and the rocker latch arm (70); A rear spring pusher (50) including a cable strain relief portion, wherein the rear spring pusher (50) is adapted to be attached to the main cylinder (60); A spring (52) is used to bias the inner cylinder to a forward position in the main cylinder (60); as well as A weatherproof collar (80) is sized to be positioned around a portion of the main tube (60).

18. The female optical fiber connector as claimed in claim 17, wherein the keying feature (60KF) is a male keying feature.

19. The female fiber optic connector of claim 17, wherein the keying feature (60KF) is configured to be approximately 180 degrees away from the rocker latch arm (70).

20. A female fiber optic connector (100) having a connection port (CP) for receiving a mating fiber optic plug, the female fiber optic connector comprising: A sleeve (30) includes one or more holes (32) for receiving one or more optical fibers; Inner cylinder (20), the inner cylinder includes a rear end (21) and a front end (23), wherein an inner cylinder channel (22) extends from the rear end (21) to the front end (23), wherein the rear end (21) includes a rear end opening (21o) sized to receive the sleeve (30); The main tube (60) includes a rear end (61) and a front end (63), wherein a main tube channel (62) extends from the rear end (61) to the front end (63), wherein the rear end (61) includes a rear end opening (61o) sized to receive the inner tube (20), and the front end (63) includes a connection port opening (CPO), and the main tube includes a keying feature (60KF) configured as a male keying feature; A rocker latch arm (70) includes a pivot (70P) adapted to pivot the rocker latch arm (70) relative to the main cylinder (60), wherein the rocker latch arm (70) is disposed on the opposite side of the keyed feature (60KF), and the rocker latch arm (70) is configured to switch between a release position and a holding position; One or more resilient members (75) for biasing the rocker latch arm (70) to the holding position, wherein a portion of the one or more resilient members (75) is disposed between the inner cylinder (20) and the main cylinder (60); A rear spring pusher (50) including a cable strain relief portion, wherein the rear spring pusher (50) is adapted to be attached to the main cylinder (60); Spring (52), the spring being used to bias the inner cylinder to a forward position; and A weatherproof collar (80) is sized to be positioned around a portion of the main tube (60).

21. The female optical fiber connector of claim 20, further comprising: One or more caps (82) that cooperate with the weatherproof collar.

22. A female fiber optic connector (100) having a connection port (CP) for receiving a mating fiber optic plug, the female fiber optic connector comprising: A sleeve (30) includes one or more holes (32) for receiving one or more optical fibers; Inner cylinder (20), the inner cylinder includes a rear end (21) and a front end (23), wherein an inner cylinder channel (22) extends from the rear end (21) to the front end (23), wherein the rear end (21) includes a rear end opening (21o) sized to receive the sleeve (30); The main tube (60) includes a rear end (61) and a front end (63), wherein a main tube channel (62) extends from the rear end (61) to the front end (63), wherein the rear end (61) includes a rear end opening (61o) sized to receive the inner tube (20), and the front end (63) includes a connection port opening (CPO), and the main tube includes a keying feature (60KF) configured as a male keying feature; A rocker latch arm (70) including a pivot (70P) adapted to pivot the rocker latch arm (70) relative to the main cylinder (60), wherein the rocker latch arm (70) is disposed on the main cylinder (60) opposite to the keyed feature (60KF), and the rocker latch arm (70) is configured to switch between a release position and a holding position; One or more resilient members (75) for biasing the rocker latch arm (70) to the holding position, wherein a portion of the one or more resilient members (75) is disposed between the inner cylinder (20) and the rocker latch arm (70); A rear spring pusher (50) including a cable strain relief portion, wherein the rear spring pusher (50) is adapted to be attached to the main cylinder (60); A spring (52) is used to bias the inner cylinder (20) to a forward position in the main cylinder (60); A weatherproof collar (80) is sized to be positioned around a portion of the main tube (60); as well as One or more caps (82) that cooperate with the weatherproof collar (80).

23. The female fiber optic connector as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 22, wherein the rocker latch arm (70) includes a portion that protrudes into the connection port (CP) when in the holding position.

24. The female fiber optic connector as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 22, wherein the one or more elastic members (75) comprise a helical spring, a leaf spring, a wave spring, or a torsion spring.

25. The female optical fiber connector as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 22, wherein the one or more elastic members (75) are helical springs.

26. The female optical fiber connector as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 22, wherein the one or more elastic members (75) are a first helical spring and a second helical spring.

27. The female fiber optic connector as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 22, wherein the one or more resilient members (75) provide a downward retaining force (RF) between 5 Newtons and 15 Newtons (N) for holding the rocker latch arm (70) in the retaining position.

28. The female fiber optic connector as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 22, wherein the main tube (60) includes one or more windows (60W).

29. The female fiber optic connector as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 22, wherein the main tube (60) includes a groove (60R) shaped to receive a portion of the rocker latch arm (70).

30. The female fiber optic connector as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 22, wherein the interface between the inner tube (20) and the main tube (60) includes one or more calibration features for rotational alignment.

31. The female fiber optic connector as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 22, wherein the main tube (60) further includes at least one slot (60S) sized to receive a latch (70L) of the rocker latch arm (70).

32. The female fiber optic connector as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 22, wherein, in the unfitted state, the sleeve is allowed to move in a limited range of motion with two degrees of freedom between approximately 100 and 400 micrometers.

33. The female fiber optic connector as claimed in any one of claims 10, 11, 13, 15, 17, 20 to 22, wherein one or more ends of the weatherproof collar (80) include an integrally formed sealing portion (80SL).

34. The female fiber optic connector as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 22, wherein the female fiber optic connector (100) is part of a cable assembly (200) comprising a fiber optic cable (90) having one or more optical fibers (92).

35. The female fiber optic connector as claimed in any one of claims 6, 7, 9, 11, 13, 14, 15, 17, 20 to 22, wherein the female fiber optic connector (100) is part of a cable assembly (200) comprising a fiber optic cable (90) having one or more optical fibers (92), the fiber optic cable (90) being secured to the rear spring pusher (50) using crimping tape, adhesive, epoxy resin or glue.

36. The female fiber optic connector as claimed in any one of claims 6, 7, 9, 11, 13, 14, 15, 17, 20 to 22, wherein the female fiber optic connector (100) is part of a cable assembly (200) comprising a fiber optic cable (90) having one or more optical fibers (92), the fiber optic cable (90) comprising one or more tension yarns fixed to the rear spring pusher (50).

37. The female optical fiber connector of claim 35, further comprising: The plug (85) is disposed within the rear spring pusher (50).

38. The female optical fiber connector of claim 34, wherein an adhesive is used to secure the one or more optical fibers (92), the one or more reinforcing members, and the optical fiber cable (90).

39. The female optical fiber connector of claim 34, wherein the optical fiber cable (90) comprises a circular cross-section or a non-circular cross-section.

40. The female optical fiber connector as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 22, further comprising: One or more heat shrink heads (97).

41. The female optical fiber connector as described in any one of claims 1 to 22, further comprising: A sleeve protective cover (67) having a portion fitted inside the sleeve (30).

42. The female optical fiber connector as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 22, further comprising: Connector protective cover (99).

43. A method for manufacturing an optical fiber cable assembly (200) having a female optical fiber connector (100) with a connection port (CP), the method comprising: One or more optical fibers of the optical fiber cable (90) are attached to the sleeve (30); The sleeve (30) is inserted into the inner cylinder channel (22) of the inner cylinder (20), wherein the inner cylinder (20) includes an inner cylinder rear end (21) and an inner cylinder front end (23), wherein the inner cylinder channel (22) extends from the inner cylinder rear end (21) to the inner cylinder front end (23), wherein the inner cylinder rear end (21) includes an inner cylinder rear end opening (21o) sized to receive the sleeve (30); The inner cylinder (20) is placed inside the main cylinder (60), the main cylinder (60) including a main cylinder rear end (61) and a main cylinder front end (63), wherein a main cylinder channel (62) extends from the main cylinder rear end (61) to the main cylinder front end (63), wherein the main cylinder rear end (61) includes a main cylinder rear end opening (61o) sized to receive the inner cylinder (20), and the main cylinder front end (63) includes a connector port opening (CPO); as well as A rocker latch arm (70) is attached to the main cylinder (60), the rocker latch arm (70) being configured to switch between a release position and a hold position.

44. The method of claim 43, wherein one or more resilient members (75) are installed, the one or more resilient members being used to bias the rocker latch arm (70) to the holding position.

45. The method of claim 44, wherein the one or more elastic members (75) are a first helical spring and a second helical spring.

46. ​​The method of claim 45, wherein the one or more elastic members (75) comprise a helical spring, a leaf spring, a wave spring, or a torsion spring.

47. The method of any one of claims 43 to 46, wherein a weatherproof collar is placed around a portion of the main tube (60).

48. The method of any one of claims 43 to 46, wherein the main cylinder (60) further comprises at least one slot (60S) sized to receive a latch (70L) of the rocker arm (70).

49. The method of any one of claims 43 to 46, wherein the main cylinder (60) includes a recess (60R) shaped to receive a portion of the rocker latch arm (70).

50. The method of any one of claims 43 to 46, wherein attaching the rocker latch arm (70) to the main cylinder (60) includes using a retainer (70R).

51. The method of any one of claims 43 to 46, further comprising: Adhesive is injected into the female fiber connector (100) to secure the fiber optic cable (90), one or more optical fibers (92), and one or more reinforcing members (94) of the fiber optic cable (90).

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