Mechanical connection interface

Abstract

To provide a mechanical connection interface.SOLUTION: The present disclosure relates to a connection interface for fixing two component elements together by turning the two component elements. The interface, which turns and fixes elements, includes a stop structure including a snap fit feature part.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application was filed as a PCT international patent application on May 14, 2020, and claims the benefit of U.S. Patent Application No. 62 / 849,760, filed May 17, 2019, which claims the benefit of U.S. Patent Application No. 62 / 891,749, filed August 26, 2019, which claims the benefit of U.S. Patent Application No. 62 / 929,532, filed November 1, 2019, which claims the benefit of U.S. Patent Application No. 62 / 961,044, filed January 14, 2020, and which claims the benefit of U.S. Patent Application No. 63 / 003,996, filed April 2, 2020, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to mechanical connection interfaces and, more particularly, to turn-and-fix mechanical connection interfaces that may be used in electrical communication connectors. [Background technology]

[0003] A turn-and-lock connection interface is an interface that is connected and disconnected by a twisting action. Turn-and-lock connection interfaces may be used in electrical communication connectors. For example, turn-and-lock connection interfaces have been used to secure electrical communication connectors to one another, to secure electrical communication connectors to electrical communication adapters, and to interconnect separate parts of electrical communication connectors. U.S. Patent No. 7,744,288 and European Patent No. 2302431 disclose electrical communication connectors that utilize turn-and-lock connection interfaces. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Aspects of the present disclosure relate to a turn-and-fix connection interface for coupling two components together. In one example, the two components can be part of a telecommunications connection system, such as a fiber optic connection system. In a particular example, each of the components can be part of a telecommunications connector or adapter. In one example, one of the components can include a fiber optic adapter or a portion of a fiber optic adapter, and the other component can include a fiber optic connector or a portion of a fiber optic connector. In another example, the components can be different parts of a fiber optic connector. In yet another example, one of the components can be a dust cap and the other component can be a retaining sleeve of a fiber optic connector.

[0005] In certain examples, components embodying a turn-and-fix interface are rotationally movable about a central axis relative to one another between first and second rotational states. The components may include stop arrangements that limit the range of rotational movement between the first and second rotational states. The stop arrangements may also be configured to allow the components to be axially separated from one another when in the first rotational state and to prevent the components from being axially separated from one another when in the second rotational state.

[0006] The components may include a snap-fit ​​configuration to resist movement from the second rotational state to the first rotational state. In one example, the snap-fit ​​configuration may be designed such that the snap-fit ​​configuration requires damage (e.g., break) to the components as they are rotated relative to one another from the second rotational state to the first rotational state. In other examples, the snap-fit ​​configuration may be configured to flex without breaking or otherwise being damaged to accommodate movement from the second rotational state to the first rotational state. In certain examples, the components do not move axially relative to one another as the components are rotated between the first and second rotational states.

[0007] Another aspect of the disclosure relates to a turn-and-lock connection interface including a first component defining an axis. The first component includes a turn-lock latch. The first component also includes a first stop arrangement including a first stop surface facing a first axial axis and a second stop surface facing a second axial direction along the axis. The first axial direction is opposite to the second axial direction. The first component also includes a third stop surface facing a first rotational direction about the axis. The turn-and-lock connection interface also includes a second component including a turn-lock catch. The second component also includes a turn-lock catch, the second component also including a fourth stop surface facing the second axial direction, a fifth stop surface facing the first axial direction, and a sixth stop surface facing a second rotational direction about the axis that is opposite to the first rotational direction. The turn-lock connection interface is positionable in a first rotational state where the first stop surface faces the fourth stop surface, the second stop surface is rotationally offset from the fifth stop surface, and the third stop surface is rotationally offset from the sixth stop surface by a rotational angle of 360 degrees or less. The turn-lock connection interface is also positionable in a second rotational state where the first stop surface faces the fourth stop surface, the second stop surface faces the fifth stop surface, and the third stop surface faces and is adjacent to the sixth stop surface. The turn-lock connection interface is movable from the first rotational state to the second rotational state by rotating the first and second components relative to one another through a rotational angle. The turn-lock latch and the turn-lock catch circumferentially face one another when the turn-lock connection interface is in the second rotational state and resist rotation of the turn-lock interface from the second rotational state to the first rotational state. Contact between the rotation lock latch and the rotation lock catch causes the rotation lock latch to resiliently bend from the locked position to a clearance position when the turn-to-lock connection interface is moved from the first rotational state to the second rotational state, allowing the rotation lock latch and the rotation lock catch to move rotationally past each other.The turn lock latch resiliently returns to the locked position after the turn lock latch and the turn lock catch move past one another to resist rotation of the turn lock interface from the second rotation state to the first rotation state.

[0008] Another aspect of the disclosure relates to a turn-and-fix connection interface including a first component defining a first axis and a second component defining a second axis. The first and second components are configured to be axially inserted together and mechanically coupled together when the first and second components are coaxially aligned. The first component includes a first stop arrangement and the second component includes a second stop arrangement. The first and second components are configured to be rotated relative to one another about the first and second axes between the first and second rotational states when the first and second components are axially inserted together. The first and second stop arrangements are configured to limit a range of rotational movement between the first and second rotational states. The first and second stop arrangements are also configured to allow the first and second components to be axially separated from one another when the first and second components are in the first rotational state and to prevent the first and second components from being axially separated from one another when the first and second components are in the second rotational state. The first and second components further include snap-fit ​​arrangements for resisting movement from the second rotational state to the first rotational state.

[0009] Another aspect of the disclosure relates to an optical fiber assembly including a fiber optic connector having a connector end. The fiber optic connector defines an axis. The fiber optic connector supports an optical fiber having a fiber end adjacent the connector end. The fiber optic connector further includes a retaining sleeve. The optical fiber assembly also includes a cap mounted on the connector end to protect the fiber end. The cap is secured to the optical fiber connector by the retaining sleeve. The retaining sleeve and the cap are axially insertable together and, when inserted together, are rotatable relative to one another between a first rotational state and a second rotational state. The cap is axially removable from the optical fiber connector when the retaining sleeve and the cap are in the first rotational state. The cap is not axially removable from the optical fiber connector when the retaining sleeve and the cap are in the second rotational state. The cap and the retaining sleeve include a snap-fit ​​interface for retaining the cap and the retaining sleeve in the second rotational state. The snap-fit ​​connection requires being damaged to move the retaining sleeve and the cap from the second rotational state to the first rotational state.

[0010] A further aspect of the disclosure relates to a fiber optic connector including a connector body defining a connector axis. The fiber optic connector also includes a retention sleeve for securing the fiber optic connector to a fiber optic adapter. The retention sleeve is mounted on the connector body and is rotatable relative to the connector body about the connector axis. The retention sleeve includes a stop arrangement therein adapted to interface with a corresponding stop arrangement on the fiber optic adapter. The retention sleeve stop arrangement includes opposing first and second axially facing axial stop surfaces along the connector axis. The retention sleeve stop arrangement also includes opposing first and second axially facing rotational stop surfaces about the connector axis.

[0011] Yet another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a fiber optic adapter including an adapter body defining an adapter axis. The adapter body includes a stop arrangement integrated within an exterior of the adapter body for interfacing with a corresponding stop arrangement of a fiber optic connector. The adapter body stop arrangement includes axial stop surfaces facing in opposing first and second axial directions along the adapter axis. The adapter body stop arrangement also includes rotational stop surfaces facing in opposing first and second rotational directions about the adapter axis.

[0012] Various additional aspects will be described in the following description. Aspects of the invention can relate to individual features and combinations of features. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not intended to limit the broad inventive concept on which the examples disclosed herein are based. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0013] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate several aspects of the disclosure. A brief description of the drawings is as follows:

[0014] [Figure 1] 1 illustrates a fiber optic connector and corresponding fiber optic adapter that includes a turn-and-lock connection interface according to the principles of the present disclosure for mechanically locking the fiber optic connector and fiber optic adapter together; [Diagram 2] 2 is another view of the fiber optic adapter and fiber optic connector of FIG. 1. [Diagram 3] 2 is a further view of the fiber optic connector and fiber optic adapter of FIG. 1. [Figure 4] 4 is a perspective view of a first end of a retaining sleeve of the fiber optic connector of FIGS. 1-3, forming part of a turn-and-fix connection interface; FIG. [Diagram 5] 5 is another perspective view of the first end of the retaining sleeve of FIG. 4. [Figure 6]5 is a perspective view of the opposite second end of the retaining sleeve of FIG. 4. FIG. [Figure 7] 5 is an end view of a first end of the retaining sleeve of FIG. 4. [Figure 8] FIG. 5 is a side view of the retaining sleeve of FIG. 4. [Figure 9] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of the retaining sleeve of FIG. 4 cut axially and arranged in a plane so that the inside of the retaining sleeve is visible in the plan view, the perimeter of the retaining sleeve being indicated by the symbol C and the length of the retaining sleeve being indicated by the symbol L. [Figure 10] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the fiber optic adapter of FIGS. 1-3, illustrating an exemplary snap-fit ​​latch. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a side view of the optical fiber adapter of FIG. [Figure 12] 11 is another side view of the optical fiber adapter of FIG. 10. [Figure 13] FIG. 11 is an end view of the optical fiber adapter of FIG. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram of a portion of the optical fiber adapter of FIGS. 10 to 13, where a portion is cut axially and arranged in a plane so that the exterior of the entire adapter body is visible in plan view; the perimeter of the adapter body is symbol C, and the length of the portion of the adapter body is symbol L. [Figure 15] FIG. 4 is a schematic plan view showing the turn-and-lock interface of the fiber optic connector and fiber optic adapter of FIGS. 1-3 before the interfaces are axially inserted together; [Figure 16] 16 illustrates the turn-and-lock interface of FIG. 15 with the retaining sleeve of the fiber optic connector and the adapter body of the fiber optic adapter inserted together in a first rotated state. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 illustrates the turn-and-fix connection interface of FIGS. 15 and 16 turned to a second rotational state. [Figure 18] FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating the fiber optic connector of FIGS. 1-3 shown aligned with a corresponding dust cap. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the dust cap of FIG. 18. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is an end view of the dust cap of FIG. 19. [Figure 21] FIG. 19 is an end view of the optical fiber connector of FIGS. [Figure 22] 1 illustrates another snap-fit ​​latch in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. [Diagram 23] 1 illustrates yet another snap-fit ​​latch in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. [Figure 24] 1 illustrates a cantilever type snap-fit ​​latch in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. [Diagram 25] 2 illustrates another cantilever type snap-fit ​​latch in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. [Figure 26] FIG. 26 is another view of the latch of FIG. 25. [Figure 27] FIG. 26 is a further view of the latch of FIG. 25. [Figure 28] 1 illustrates an exemplary tapered lead-in for interlocking in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. [Figure 29] 14 illustrates another example of a tapered lead-in for interlocking in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure; [Diagram 30] 1 illustrates a fiber optic adapter including an interlocking arrangement according to the principles of the present disclosure forming part of a turn-and-fix connection interface. [Diagram 31] FIG. 31 is a cross-sectional view of the optical fiber adapter of FIG. 30. [Diagram 32] 31 is another cross-sectional view of the optical fiber adapter of FIG. 30. [Diagram 33] 1 is an exploded view of a fiber optic connector according to the principles of the present disclosure; [Diagram 34] FIG. 34 is an assembly diagram of the optical fiber connector of FIG. 33. [Diagram 35] 35 shows the fiber optic connector of FIG. 34 with the outer fastener and outer dust cap removed. [Diagram 36] 35 illustrates a core assembly of the optical fiber connector of FIG. 34. [Figure 37]FIG. 35 is a side view of the fiber optic connector of FIG. 34 with the outer dust cap and outer fastener removed. [Figure 38] FIG. 38 is a perspective view of a portion of the assembly of FIG. 37. [Figure 39] FIG. 38 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the assembly of FIG. 37. [Diagram 40] FIG. 38 is another cross-sectional view of the assembly of FIG. 37. [Diagram 41] FIG. 38 is an end view showing a rear latch arrangement integrated with the shroud of the assembly of FIG. 37. [Diagram 42] 35 is a perspective view of an outer fastening member of the optical fiber connector of FIG. 34. [Diagram 43] FIG. 35 is a perspective view of an outer dust cap of the fiber optic connector of FIG. 34. [Diagram 44] FIG. 44 is a perspective view showing the outer dust cap of FIG. 43 being used to pry open the outer fastener of FIG. 42. [Diagram 45] 34 illustrates a preliminary assembly including the dust cap, lanyard, fasteners, and shroud of FIG. 33. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0015] 1-3 illustrate a fiber optic connector 20 and a corresponding fiber optic adapter 22 including a turn-and-lock mechanical connection interface in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure for securing the fiber optic connector 20 and the fiber optic adapter 22 together. In the illustrated example, the turn-and-lock connection interface includes a first component illustrated as an outer adapter body 24 of the fiber optic adapter 22 and a second component illustrated as an outer retention sleeve 26 of the fiber optic connector 20. The retention sleeve 26 is configured to fit over a connector body 28 of the fiber optic connector 20 and rotate relative to the connector body 28 about a central axis defined by the fiber optic connector 20. The turn-and-lock connection interface, incorporated as part of the retention sleeve 26 and the outer adapter body 24, is adapted to retain the connector body 28 within the fiber optic adapter 22. In use, the connector body 28 is inserted into the fiber optic adapter 22, and then the retaining sleeve 26 is slid axially onto the outer adapter body 24 to a first insertion position in which the retaining sleeve 26 and the outer adapter body 24 are in a first rotational state relative to one another. The retaining sleeve 26 is then turned from the first rotational state to a second rotational state relative to the connector body 28 and the outer adapter body 24. In the first rotational state, the retaining sleeve 26 may be axially retracted from the outer adapter body 24. In contrast, in the second rotational state, a stop configuration of the turn-and-lock connection interface prevents the retaining sleeve 26 from being axially retracted from the outer adapter body 24. An internal stop, such as a shoulder in the retaining sleeve 26, opposes a corresponding stop on the connector body 28 such that the retaining sleeve 26 prevents the connector body 28 from being retracted from the fiber optic adapter 22 when the retaining sleeve 26 is in the second rotational state. In a preferred example, a snap fit arrangement is provided to retain the retaining sleeve 26 in the second rotational state relative to the outer adapter body 24 .

[0016] The outer adaptor body 24 defines an adaptor axis 30 (see FIG. 13) and the retaining sleeve 26 defines a sleeve axis 32 (see FIG. 7). The outer adaptor body 24 and the retaining sleeve 26 are configured to be axially inserted together and mechanically coupled together when the outer adaptor body 24 and the retaining sleeve 26 are coaxially aligned. The outer adaptor body 24 includes a first stop arrangement 34 of the turn-and-lock connection interface and the retaining sleeve 26 defines a second stop arrangement 36 of the turn-and-lock connection interface.

[0017] 10-14, the first stop arrangement 34 includes a plurality of triangular projections 38 on the exterior of the outer adaptor body 24. The triangular projections 38 are spaced around the perimeter C of the outer adaptor body 24. FIG. 14 shows the outer adaptor body 24 cut axially at one circumferential location and disposed in a plane such that the total perimeter C of the outer adaptor body 24 and the length L of the outer adaptor body 24 are shown in plan view. The triangular projections 38 are evenly spaced around the perimeter C. The first stop arrangement 34 also includes at least one snap-fit ​​feature forming part of the snap-fit ​​arrangement. As illustrated in FIGS. 10-14, the snap-fit ​​feature includes two resilient rotationally fixed latches 40 positioned on opposite sides of the outer adaptor body 24.

[0018] The second stop arrangement 36 of the turn-and-fix connection interface includes a plurality of recesses 42 positioned within the interior of the retaining sleeve 26 (see FIGS. 4-10). The recesses 42 are evenly spaced around the perimeter C of the retaining sleeve 26. As shown in FIG. 9, the retaining sleeve 26 is cut axially in one location and laid out in a plane such that the entire interior of the retaining sleeve 26 is visible in plan view. As shown in FIG. 9, the recesses 42 are evenly spaced along the perimeter C of the retaining sleeve 26.

[0019] The second stop arrangement 36 also includes a plurality of snap-fit ​​features that are part of a snap-fit ​​arrangement for retaining the retaining sleeve 26 in the second rotational state relative to the outer adapter body 24. The snap-fit ​​features are illustrated as rotational locking catches 44 evenly spaced within the interior of the retaining sleeve 26 around the perimeter of the retaining sleeve 26. Each of the rotational locking catches 44 includes an angled surface 46 and a locking surface 48.

[0020] It will be appreciated that the first and second stop arrangements 34, 36 are adapted to provide a turn-and-fix connection interface having several features. For example, when the retaining sleeve 26 and the outer adaptor body 24 are initially inserted together, the adaptor axis 30 and the sleeve axis 32 are coaxially aligned and the retaining sleeve 26 can be rotated relative to the outer adaptor body 24 about the axis 30, 32 between the first and second rotational states. The first and second stop arrangements 34, 36 are configured to limit the range of rotational movement permitted between the first and second rotational states. In one example, the range of rotational movement permitted is 360 degrees or less, or 180 degrees or less, or 90 degrees or less. In the illustrated example, the interaction between the first and second stop arrangements 34, 36 limits the range of rotation between the first and second rotational states to 90 degrees or less. The first and second stop arrangements 34, 36 are also configured to allow the fiber optic adapter 22 and the retaining sleeve 26 to be axially inserted together and axially separated from one another when the retaining sleeve 26 and the outer adapter body 24 are in a first rotational state. Additionally, the first and second stop arrangements 34, 36 are configured such that interference between the first and second stop arrangements 34, 36 prevents the retaining sleeve 26 from being axially removed from the outer adapter body 24 when the retaining sleeve 26 and the outer adapter body 24 are in a second rotational state.

[0021] The snap-fit ​​arrangement of the turn-to-lock connection interface is configured to resist rotational movement between the retaining sleeve 26 and the outer adaptor body 24 toward the first rotational state when the outer adaptor body 24 and the retaining sleeve 26 are in the second rotational state. The rotation lock latch 40 and the rotation lock catch 44 are configured such that contact between the angled surface 46 of the rotation lock catch 44 and the rotation lock latch 40 as the retaining sleeve 26 is rotated from the first rotational state to the second rotational state resiliently flexes the rotation lock latch 40 from the locked position to a clearance position to allow the rotation lock latch 40 and the rotation lock catch 44 to move rotationally past one another. The rotation lock latch 40 is configured to resiliently return to the locked position after the rotation lock latch 40 and the rotation lock catch 44 have moved past one another. Once the retaining sleeve 26 has been moved to the second rotational state and the rotational lock latch 40 has been returned to the locked position, the locking surface 48 of the rotational lock catch 44 faces a stop surface 50 on the side of the rotational lock latch 40 to resist the retaining sleeve 26 moving from the second rotational state back to the first rotational state.

[0022] 10 and 14, the rotation lock latch 40 on the outer adaptor body 24 is formed by a flexible beam 62 having first and second opposed ends 64, 66 each integrally formed with and secured to the main body of the outer adaptor body 24. An open space or area 68 is defined between each of the flexible beams 62 and the main body of the outer adaptor body 24 to provide space to allow the flexible beams 62 to flex radially inwardly relative to the adapter shaft 30 when contacted by a corresponding angled surface 46 of one of the rotation lock catches 44. The flexible beams 62 each include a rotation stop surface 70 facing a first rotation direction 72 and an angled engagement surface 74 facing a second rotation direction 76 opposite the first rotation direction 72. When the retaining sleeve 26 and the outer adapter body 24 are rotated relative to one another between the first and second rotational states, the angled surface 46 of the rotational locking catch 44 engages the angled engagement surface 74 of the flexible beam 62, thereby bending the flexible beam 62 radially inward to allow the rotational locking catch 44 to move past the flexible beam 62. Once the rotational locking catch 44 has moved past the flexible beam 62, the flexible beam 62 resiliently returns to its undeflected state such that the rotational stop surface 70 faces the corresponding rotational stop surface 48 of the fixed catch 44. The rotational stop surface 48 of the fixed catch 44 faces the second rotational direction 76.

[0023] In certain instances, the engagement between the rotation stop surface 70 and the rotation stop surface 48 resists the retaining sleeve 26 from being rotated relative to the outer adapter body 24 from the second rotational state back to the first rotational state. In certain instances, the engagement of the stop surfaces 70, 48 is sufficiently robust that it requires the flexible beam 62 to be damaged or broken in order for the retaining sleeve 26 to be moved from the second rotational position back to the first rotational position. Thus, in such a situation, sufficient torque must be applied to the retaining sleeve 26 to break the flexible beam 62 in order to move the retaining sleeve 26 from the second rotational position back to the first rotational position. In certain instances, the flexible beam 62 may be designed to control the amount of force required to break the flexible beam 62. For example, by varying the thickness of flexible beam 62 or by providing regions in the flexible beam having reduced strength (e.g., notched regions, partially cut regions, etc.), the force required to break flexible beam 62 can be customized for different applications (see, e.g., FIGS. 22 and 23). In certain examples, damage to flexible beam 62 can be used as a visible indicator that retaining sleeve 26 has moved from the second rotational position back to the first rotational position. Thus, flexible beam 62 can function as a tamper indicator.

[0024] 10 and 14, the first stop arrangement 34 includes an axial stop surface 54 facing a first axial direction 58 along the adapter shaft 30 and a stop surface 55 facing a second axial direction 60 along the adapter shaft 30. The first and second axial directions 58, 60 oppose one another. The first stop arrangement 34 also includes a rotational stop surface 57 facing a second rotational direction 76. The axial stop surface 54 is defined by a corner of the first triangular projection 38, the axial stop surface 55 is defined by a side of the first triangular projection 38 that is opposite the corner defining the stop surface 54, and the rotational stop surface 57 is defined by a side of the first triangular projection 38 that extends between the axial stop surfaces 54, 55. It will be appreciated that the first stop arrangement 34 is defined in part by the first triangular projection 38 and in part by the rotation lock latch 40.

[0025] It will be appreciated that the second stop arrangement 36 is defined in part by the recess 42 and in part by the rotational lock catch 44 within the interior of the retaining sleeve 26. For example, with reference to FIG. 9, the rotational lock catch 44 defines a rotational stop surface 48 facing the second rotational direction 76. The triangular recess 42 also includes an axial stop surface 56 facing the second axial direction 60, an axial stop surface 59 facing the first axial direction 58, and a rotational stop surface 61 facing the first rotational direction 72. The recess 42 includes a triangular portion 63 shaped to complement the shape of the triangular protrusion 38. The access gap 52 is tapered to facilitate guiding the triangular protrusion 38 into the recess 42 as the retaining sleeve 26 and the outer adapter body 24 are axially inserted together.

[0026] As used herein, a surface "faces in a direction" if the surface faces at least partially in that direction.

[0027] 15 shows the retaining sleeve 26 axially aligned with the outer adaptor body 24 prior to axial insertion between the outer adaptor body 24 and the retaining sleeve 26. When so positioned, the triangular protrusion 38 on the outer adaptor body 24 aligns with the gap 52 that provides access to the recess 42 within the interior of the retaining sleeve 26. The tapered configuration of the triangular protrusion 38, and the access gap 52, facilitates guiding the triangular protrusion 38 into the recess 42 when the retaining sleeve 26 and the outer adaptor body 24 are axially inserted together.

[0028] FIG. 16 shows the retaining sleeve 26 and the outer adaptor body 24 axially inserted together with the outer adaptor body 24 and the retaining sleeve 26 in a first rotational state. In the first rotational state, the stop surface 54 of the outer adaptor body 24 faces or engages with a corresponding stop surface 56 of the retaining sleeve 26 to limit the depth of axial insertion that can occur between the retaining sleeve 26 and the outer adaptor body 24. Also, the axial stop surface 55 of the first stop arrangement 34 is rotationally offset from the axial stop surface 59 of the second stop arrangement 36 such that no interference is provided between the stop surfaces 55, 59 that would prevent the outer adaptor body 24 and the retaining sleeve 26 from being axially separated from one another. Thus, in the first rotational state of FIG. 16, the outer adaptor body 24 and the retaining sleeve 26 can be axially separated from one another. Additionally, the rotational stop surface 57 of the first stop arrangement 34 is rotationally offset from the rotational stop surface 61 of the second stop arrangement 36 by a rotational angle A. In particular examples, rotation angle A is less than or equal to about 90 degrees. In one example, rotation angle A is about 90 degrees, which generally corresponds to a quarter turn of the retaining sleeve 26 relative to the outer adapter body 24. In one example, rotation angle A is about 45 degrees.

[0029] FIG. 17 illustrates the outer adaptor body 24 and the retaining sleeve 26 in a second rotational state. To move the outer adaptor body 24 and the retaining sleeve 26 from the first rotational state to the second rotational state, the retaining sleeve 26 can be rotated in a first direction 72 relative to the outer adaptor body 24 through an angle A. When the retaining sleeve 26 is rotated from the first rotational state to the second rotational state, the triangular protrusion 38 is received within the triangular portion 63 of the recess 42 of the retaining sleeve 26, as shown in FIG. 17. When so positioned, the stop surface 54 of the first stop arrangement 34 continues to oppose the stop surface 56 of the second stop arrangement 38. Also, the stop surface 55 of the first stop arrangement 34 opposes the stop surface 59 of the second stop arrangement 36 such that interference between the stop surfaces 55, 59 prevents the retaining sleeve 26 and the outer adaptor body 24 from being axially separated from one another. Additionally, the rotational stop surface 57 of the first stop arrangement 34 faces and is adjacent to the rotational stop surface 61 of the second stop arrangement 36 to limit the range of rotational movement possible between the retaining sleeve 26 and the outer adapter body 24 as the retaining sleeve 26 is rotated between the first and second rotational states.

[0030] When the retaining sleeve 26 is in the second rotational state, the rotation stop surface 48 of the rotation lock catch 44 opposes the rotation stop surface 70 of the rotation lock latch 40. Thus, the stop surfaces 70, 48 resist rotation of the retaining sleeve 26 from the second rotational position back to the first rotational position. As the retaining sleeve 26 is rotated from the first rotational position to the second rotational position, the angled engagement surface 74 of the rotation lock latch 40 is engaged by the angled surface 46 of the rotation lock catch 44, resiliently bending the rotation lock latch 40 from the locked position to a clearance position to allow the rotation lock catch 44 to move rotationally past the rotation lock latch 40. The rotation lock latch 40 resiliently return to their locked positions after the rotation lock catch has moved past the rotation lock latch 40. Once the rotation lock latch 40 is returned to the locked position, the rotation stop surface 70 of the rotation lock latch 40 opposes the rotation stop surface 48 of the rotation lock catch 44 to resist rotation of the retaining sleeve 26 from the second rotation state back to the first rotation state.

[0031] In the illustrated example, the rotation stop surface 48 of the rotation lock catch 44 and the rotation stop surface 70 of the rotation lock latch 40 are disposed generally perpendicular to the direction of rotation 76 required to move the retaining sleeve 26 from the second rotational position back to the first rotational position. Thus, it would generally be necessary to break the rotation lock latch 40 in order to move the retaining sleeve 26 from the second rotational state back to the first rotational state. In other examples, the rotation stop surface 48 and / or the rotation stop surface 70 may be angled relative to the direction of rotation 76 such that the surfaces resist moving the retaining sleeve 26 from the first rotational state to the second rotational state, but will flex the rotation lock latch 40 radially inwardly when sufficient torque is applied to the retaining sleeve 26, allowing the retaining sleeve 26 to be moved from the first rotational state to the second rotational state. It will be appreciated that the amount of torque required will depend on the selected angle of the stop surfaces. In this type of configuration, the retaining sleeve 26 can be moved from a first rotational state to a second rotational state without breaking the rotational lock latch 40 .

[0032] FIG. 18 shows the fiber optic connector 20 aligned with a corresponding dust cap 100. The fiber optic connector has a connector end 102. The fiber optic connector defines an axis 104. The fiber optic connector 20 supports an optical fiber 106 having a fiber end adjacent the connector end 102. In the illustrated example, the optical fiber 106 is supported in a ferrule 107. In other examples, a ferrule-less connector may be used. A retaining sleeve 26 is rotatably mounted on the connector body 28. The dust cap 100 includes a first stop formation 36. The cap 100 is mounted over the connector end 102 to protect the end of the optical fiber 106. The cap 100 is secured to the fiber optic connector 20 by the retaining sleeve 26. The retaining sleeve 26 and the cap 100 are axially insertable together and, when inserted together, are rotatable relative to one another between a first rotational state and a second rotational state in the same manner described with respect to the relationship between the retaining sleeve 26 and the outer adapter body 24. The cap 100 is axially removable from the connector 20 when the retaining sleeve 26 and cap 100 are in the first rotational state. The cap 100 is not axially removable from the fiber optic connector 20 when the retaining sleeve 26 and cap 100 are in the second rotational state due to interference between the first and second stop arrangements 34, 36.

[0033] A snap-fit ​​arrangement provided as part of the first and second stop arrangements 34, 36 is configured to hold the cap 100 and the retaining sleeve 26 in the second rotational state. In certain instances, the snap-fit ​​arrangement needs to be damaged in order to return the retaining sleeve 26 and the cap 100 from the second rotational state to the first rotational state. In this manner, the snap-fit ​​interface can function as a tamper indicator. For example, once the fiber optic connector 20 is processed and cleaned at the factory, the cap 100 can be installed on the fiber optic connector 20 at the factory by interlocking the dust cap 100 with the retaining sleeve 26. Preferably, the dust cap 100 is not removed before the fiber optic connector is used in the field. Thus, once the fiber optic connector is ready for use in the field, the field technician will rotate the outer adapter body 24 and the retaining sleeve 26 from the second rotational position back to the first rotational position, thereby breaking the snap-fit ​​arrangement. If the snap-fit ​​arrangement has already been broken, the field technician will be aware that the fiber optic connector may have been tampered with.

[0034] As used herein, the first rotational state may be referred to as an uncoupled rotational state, and the second rotational state may be referred to as a coupled rotational state. In the uncoupled rotational state, the first and second stop arrangements 34, 36 do not interlock such that the two connectable parts (e.g., the adapter body 24 and the retaining sleeve 26) may be axially separated from one another. In contrast, in the coupled rotational state, the stops of the two components are coupled together and overlap one another to prevent the two components from being axially disengaged. Furthermore, in the coupled rotational position, the snap-fit ​​structures of the components are also preferably interlocked to prevent the components from being rotated from the coupled rotational state back to the uncoupled rotational state. In certain examples, the snap-fit ​​arrangement may include a detent that may be overcome when sufficient torque is applied between the components to disengage the snap-fit ​​connection. In certain examples, the detent arrangement is designed to be reusable and not break when the components are moved from the coupled rotational position back to the uncoupled rotational position. In other examples, the snap-fit ​​arrangement may be adapted as a single-use connection and require breaking to move the coupled components from the coupled rotational position back to the uncoupled rotational position. In other examples, the snap-fit ​​arrangement may include a latch that can be manually moved (e.g., depressed) from a retained position to a released position to allow the coupled components to be moved from the coupled rotational position back to the uncoupled rotational position. In such examples, the latch may include a portion positioned on the outside of the coupled components (e.g., outside of the retaining sleeve 26) that can be accessed to move the latch to a released position where the latch does not impede rotational movement of the components from the coupled rotational position back to the uncoupled rotational position.

[0035] In certain examples, once the two components are fully axially inserted together, the components may be rotated from an uncoupled rotational state to a coupled rotational state without utilizing or requiring axial movement between the components. Thus, in certain examples, a snap-fit ​​configuration for holding the components in a coupled rotational state may be engaged without requiring axial movement between the two components being coupled together. For example, unlike a standard bayonet connection, one of the components does not need to reverse in an extraction direction (e.g., opposite the insertion direction) to hold the component in the coupled rotational position. Furthermore, in certain examples, the turn-and-lock interfaces disclosed herein do not require a separate coil spring or other separate spring mechanism to apply an axial spring load to either of the components being coupled together. In certain examples, a snap-fit ​​connection for holding the first and second components in a coupled rotational state may be engaged by pure rotational movement between the two components. Thus, in certain examples, axial component movement is not required to engage a snap-fit ​​connection between the components.

[0036] 22 illustrates an alternative rotationally fixed latch 40a in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. The rotationally fixed latch 40a includes a beam 300 having opposite fixed ends. An open space is located below the beam 300. Notches 301 are provided on opposite sides of the beam adjacent the ends of the beam 300. The beam 300 has a length that extends in a direction transverse to the rotational direction of movement of the first and second components that are coupled together. Thus, the beam 300 is transverse to the circumferential direction.

[0037] 23 illustrates another rotationally locked latch 40b according to the principles of the present disclosure. The rotationally locked latch 40b also includes a beam 310 having fixed opposite ends. An attachment point 311 at one of the ends of the beam 310 has a reduced cross-sectional area compared to the opposite end 313. An open space is located between the beam 310 and the main body of the component to which it is coupled. The beam 310 has a length that is transverse to the rotational orientation of the components being coupled together.

[0038] FIG. 24 illustrates another rotation lock latch 40c according to the principles of the present disclosure. The rotation lock latch 40c has a cantilever configuration including one end 315 integral with its corresponding component and an opposite free end 317. A portion 318 of the beam may be contoured to facilitate sliding a rotation lock catch onto the beam. It will be appreciated that any of the beams 40a-40c may be used in combination with the above-described rotation lock catch 44 that is part of the second stop configuration provided in the retaining sleeve 26. Additionally, all of the beams illustrated in FIGS. 22-24 have a large dimension that extends transverse to the direction of rotation to create relative rotational movement between the first and second components desired to be coupled together.

[0039] 25-27 illustrate a further rotation lock latch 40d according to the principles of the present disclosure. The rotation lock latch 40d may replace the rotation lock latch 40 and may be incorporated as part of the first stop arrangement 34. The rotation lock latch 40d may be configured to provide a snap-fit ​​connection with the rotation lock catch 44 of the second stop arrangement 36. Unlike the rotation lock latches described above, the rotation lock latch 40d has a beam 340 with a cantilever configuration and a length extending in a direction d parallel to the direction of rotation, such that the first and second components desired to be coupled together are rotated when the components are rotated between an uncoupled rotational position and a coupled rotational position. The beam 340 has a fixed end 341 and a free end 342. The free end 342 is circumferentially offset from the fixed end 341. A contoured ramp feature 344 is defined at a location axially offset from the primary length of the beam. The ramp feature 344 is configured to facilitate passing the rotation lock catch 44 over the rotation lock latch 40d as the component moves from the uncoupled rotation position toward the coupled rotation position. When the rotation lock catch 44 engages the contoured ramp surface, the cantilever beam flexes radially inward to allow the rotation lock catch 44 to pass the latch 40d. Once the rotation lock catch 44 passes the latch 40d and the component reaches the coupled rotation state, the beam 340 resiliently turns to an undeflected state with the free end of the beam against the rotation lock catch 44 to prevent rotation of the component from the coupled rotation state to the uncoupled rotation state.

[0040] It will be appreciated that latches 40a-40d may be readily used to prevent rotation of a component, such as the retaining sleeve 26, from a coupled rotational state back to an uncoupled rotational state. Latch 40d is configured such that when latched with the retaining sleeve 26, a portion of latch 40d is accessible from outside the retaining sleeve 26 to allow the latch to be manually flexed and released relative to the retaining sleeve to allow the retaining sleeve to be rotated from the coupled rotational state back to the uncoupled rotational state. Latch 40d and other latches disclosed herein may be integrated into structures such as fiber optic adapter housings, fiber optic connector housings, dust caps, connector shrouds, and the like.

[0041] 28 and 29 show modified configurations for the second stop arrangement 36, with each figure showing a variation of the modified stop 38 moving from an uncoupled rotational state to a coupled rotational state. In FIG. 28, the stop 38 is modified with a taper or chamfer 38a to facilitate rotation of the first and second components relative to one another. In FIG. 29, the stop 38 is modified with a chamfer 38a and the recess 42 is modified with a taper or chamfer to facilitate rotation of the first and second components relative to one another. For example, the axial stop surface 59 may include an angled or chamfered lead-in portion 59a that is slightly angled relative to the primary stop surface 59b. The chamfered nature of the surfaces 30a, 59a facilitates rotating the first and second components that are desired to be coupled together from an uncoupled rotational state to a coupled rotational state. Specifically, the two components may be rotated from an uncoupled rotational state to a coupled rotational state even if the two parts are not fully axially inserted together initially. If the two components are fully axially inserted together when rotation from the uncoupled rotational state toward the coupled rotational state is initiated, the tapered lead-in surfaces 59a, 38a engage one another and urge the two components to the fully inserted position as rotation occurs between the first and second components. Once the first and second components are in the coupled rotational position, substantially full contact is maintained between the stop surfaces 59 and 55. For example, the stop surface 55 may include an angled stop surface 38b opposite the surface 59a, and the stop surface 55 may include an angled surface 59b opposite the surface 38a.

[0042] 30-32 illustrate another fiber optic adapter 400 according to the principles of the present disclosure. The fiber optic adapter 400 includes a first stop arrangement 34a that is a modified version of the first stop arrangement 34 and is compatible with the second stop arrangement 36. Like the first stop arrangement 34, the first stop arrangement 34a includes a plurality of triangular projections 38 adapted to interlock with recesses 42 of the second stop arrangement 36 when the first and second stop arrangements are rotated relative to one another into a coupled rotational state. The first stop arrangement 34a also includes at least one snap-fit ​​feature adapted to provide a snap-fit ​​connection with a rotationally fixed catch 44 of the second stop arrangement 36 when the second stop arrangements 34a and 36 are coupled together. The snap-fit ​​feature is illustrated to include a detent 40e (e.g., a ridge) adapted to engage a corresponding one of the catches 44 when the first and second stop arrangements 34a, 36 are coupled together. In a particular example, the body carrying the second stop arrangement 36 (e.g., the retaining sleeve 26) is sufficiently flexible to allow the ramp 46 to ride over the detent 40e and the stop 48 to snap over the detent 40e. The detent 40e is configured to hold the components that are desired to be coupled together in a coupled rotational state, but allows rotation from the coupled rotational state to an uncoupled rotational state when sufficient torque is applied between the components. Preferably, the detent 40e does not break when the components are rotated from the coupled rotational state back to the uncoupled rotational state. Thus, the first stop arrangement 34a is adapted to be used multiple times as compared to being a single use configuration.

[0043] Additionally, in certain embodiments, the fiber optic adapter 400 includes a retention collar 450 that can be used to selectively prevent rotation of the retention sleeve 26 relative to the fiber optic adapter 400 from a coupled rotational state to an uncoupled rotational state. The retention collar 450 can be used to provide a rotational lock for the retention sleeve 26, with or without a detent feature 40e or other type of snap-fit ​​feature that prevents rotation when engaged. The retention collar 450 can be slid between a retracted position and an extended position. When in the extended position, the retention collar 450 prevents rotation of the retention sleeve 26 relative to the adapter 400, as described in more detail herein. When in the retracted position, the retention collar 450 allows rotation of the retention sleeve 26 relative to the adapter 400.

[0044] The collar 450 is mounted to prevent rotation relative to the main body of the fiber optic adapter 400. For example, an interior portion of the collar 450 may interlock with a corresponding structure on the adapter 400 to prevent the collar 450 from rotating relative to the adapter 400, but allow the collar 450 to be moved axially relative to the adapter 400 between the extended and retracted orientations. In one example, the interlock may include an axial rail that fits within an axial groove.

[0045] In certain examples, a detent arrangement 457 may be used to retain the retention collar 450 in the extended and / or retracted positions. In the illustrated example of FIG. 31, the detent arrangement 457 includes a ridge 459 disposed between first and second recesses (e.g., grooves) 456, 458 defined in the adapter 400. An inward protrusion 453 carried by the retention collar 450 snaps into the first recess 456 when disposed in the retracted position and into the second recess 458 when disposed in the extended position. The inward protrusion 453 rides over the ridge 459 when sufficient force is applied to the retention collar 450. Thus, the retention collar 450 is retained in one position until a user chooses to move the retention collar 450 to the other position.

[0046] It will be appreciated that the retaining collar may include an internal retaining member 455 (e.g., a finger) as shown in FIG. 32. The retaining member 455 fits inside the retaining sleeve 26. When the retaining collar 450 is moved from the retracted position to the extended position while the retaining sleeve 26 is in the coupled rotational position, the retaining member 455 opposes the rotational locking catch 44 to prevent the retaining sleeve 26 from being rotated from the coupled rotational state to the uncoupled rotational state. By moving the retaining collar 450 back from the extended position to the retracted position, the retaining member 455 passes the locking catch 44, thereby allowing the retaining sleeve 26 to be rotated from the coupled rotational state to the uncoupled rotational state. In a particular example, the retaining sleeve 26 is rotated when the retaining collar 450 is retracted and sufficient torque is applied to the retaining sleeve 26 to overcome the detent 40e and move the retaining sleeve 26 back from the coupled rotational state to the uncoupled rotational state.

[0047] In certain examples, the retaining collar 450 may be spring biased toward the extended position. In such a case, the retaining collar 450 may automatically move from the retracted position to the extended position once the retaining sleeve 26 is turned from the uncoupled rotational state to the coupled rotational state. To uncouple the retaining sleeve 26, the collar 450 may be manually slid from the extended position to the retracted position against the bias of the spring to allow rotation of the sleeve 26 from the coupled rotational state to the uncoupled rotational state. Insertion of the core assembly into the adapter 400 may cause the collar 450 to move from the extended position to the retracted position (e.g., via physical contact between the retaining sleeve and the core assembly) against the bias of the spring.

[0048] 33 and 34 illustrate an exemplary fiber optic connector 520 according to the principles of the present disclosure. The fiber optic connector 520 includes a core assembly 522 terminated to a fiber optic cable 524. The core assembly 522 is configured to be directly plugged into an optical adapter, such as any of the optical adapters 24, 400 disclosed herein. In one particular example, a retaining sleeve 542 carried by the core assembly 522 carries either a first stop arrangement 34 of the turn-to-lock connection interface or a second stop arrangement 36 of the turn-to-lock connection interface. The retaining sleeve 542 may also carry any part of a snap-fit ​​arrangement (e.g., a turn-to-lock latch 40 or a turn-to-lock catch 44). Thus, the stop arrangements 34, 36 of the retaining sleeve 542 may engage with the stop arrangements 36, 34 of the adapter to secure the core assembly 522 to the adapter.

[0049] In certain implementations, the fiber optic connector 520 is also configured to receive a shroud 526 that is mounted over the core 534 of the core assembly 522 and an outer fastener 528 that is mounted over the shroud 526 to allow the core assembly 522 to be mounted into different types of optical adapters, dust caps, or other mating components. The shroud carries a stop arrangement and a snap-fit ​​component that engages with a corresponding stop arrangement and a snap-fit ​​component on the retaining sleeve 542 to secure the shroud to the core assembly 522. The outer fastener 528 has a connection interface arrangement adapted to mate with a corresponding connection interface arrangement integrated with a structure such as a fiber optic adapter, dust cap, or another fiber optic connector to provide a mechanical connection between the interiors thereof. In the illustrated example, the connection interface arrangement of the outer fastener 528 is illustrated to include external threads, although alternative embodiments may include a bayonet arrangement, internal threads, a stop arrangement, or other types of rotational locking arrangements. In certain embodiments, core assembly 522 can receive any of a number of shrouds, each having a different form factor or keying configuration for mating with a different type of adapter. In certain embodiments, each shroud 526 can be coupled to any of a number of outer fasteners 528, each having a different connection interface for coupling to a different type of adapter.

[0050] In a particular example, the fiber optic connector 520 includes an outer dust cap 530 that couples to an outer fastening member 528 and a lanyard 532 for anchoring the outer dust cap 530 to the core assembly 522. In the example shown, the outer fastening member 528 includes external threads adapted to engage internal threads of the dust cap 530 to secure the dust cap onto the core of the core assembly 522. When it is desired to optically connect the fiber optic connector 520 to another fiber optic connector, either directly or through an intermediate fiber optic adapter, the outer dust cap 530 is disengaged from the outer fastening member 528, thereby allowing the outer fastening member 528 to be used to secure the fiber optic connector 520 to a mating fiber optic connector or fiber optic adapter.

[0051] The core 534 of the core assembly 522 includes an end 536 that supports a ferrule 538 (see FIG. 36). It will be appreciated that the ferrule 538 is adapted to support an end portion of an optical fiber 539 corresponding to the fiber optic cable 524. As shown in FIGS. 33 and 35, the ferrule 538 is protected by a removable inner dust cap 540. The core assembly 522 also includes a retaining sleeve 542 for securing the core assembly 522 to a rear end 544 of the shroud 526. It will be appreciated that the shroud 526 can include a key feature 546 adapted to fit over the core 534 and mate with a corresponding feature provided in the fiber optic adapter to ensure that the fiber optic connector 520 is inserted into the fiber optic adapter at a particular rotational position. In certain instances, different shrouds having different features can be interchangeably mounted over the core 534 to provide compatibility with different types of fiber optic adapters (see, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 9,733,436, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety).

[0052] A turn-and-fix connection interface may also be provided between the aft end 544 of the shroud 526 and the retaining sleeve 542. For example, the aft end 544 of the shroud 526 may include a stop formation that interlocks with a corresponding stop formation on the retaining sleeve 542 when the retaining sleeve 542 and the aft end 544 of the shroud 526 are rotationally locked together (i.e., moved from a first rotational state in which the parts may be axially separated from one another to a second rotational state in which the parts are prevented from being axially separated from one another). The stop formation may be of the type previously described herein.

[0053] The interface may also include a snap-fit ​​arrangement for holding the retaining sleeve 542 in an interlocked rotational position (e.g., the second rotational state) relative to the rear end 544 of the shroud 526. In the illustrated example, the snap-fit ​​arrangement includes a resilient latch 548 (see FIG. 41 ) provided on the shroud 526 that interlocks with a corresponding catch 550 (e.g., stop) of the retaining sleeve 542 (see FIG. 36 ) when the retaining sleeve 542 is rotated to the retaining rotational position (e.g., the second rotational state) relative to the shroud 526. The engagement (e.g., latch) between the resilient latch 548 and the catch 550 prevents the retaining sleeve 542 from being rotated relative to the shroud 526 from the retaining rotational position back to the release rotational position (e.g., the first rotational state). It will be appreciated that when the retaining sleeve 542 is in the retaining rotational position relative to the shroud 526, the retaining sleeve 542 and the shroud 526 are locked together. In contrast, when the retaining sleeve 542 is in a released rotational position relative to the shroud 526, the retaining sleeve 542 and the shroud 526 may be axially separated from one another.

[0054] 35 and 37-41, the resilient latch 548 in a snap-fit ​​configuration includes a release actuation portion 552 (e.g., a tab, button, ridge, etc.) that is exposed and accessible when the retaining sleeve 542 and the shroud 526 are mated together in a retaining rotational position (e.g., see FIG. 39). The latch 548 includes an engagement portion 551 that projects axially from the release actuation portion 552 (see FIGS. 40 and 41). The engagement portion 551 moves in coordination with the release actuation portion 552. The engagement portion 551 has a stop surface 549 (FIG. 41) that is adapted to engage a stop 550 of the retaining sleeve 542 (see FIG. 36) to provide a rotational lock. For example, engagement with the angled portion of the catch 550 biases the engagement portion 551 (and thus the release actuation portion 552) inwardly to a non-latching position until the engagement portion 551 passes the stop 550. The engagement portion 551 then unbiassedly returns to the latching position where the stop surface 549 abuts the shoulder of the stop 550. The release actuation portion 552 of the latch 548 may be depressed to move the engagement portion 551 of the resilient latch 548 from the latching position to the unlatching position where the stop surface 549 passes the catch 550. The resilient latch 548 is preferably spring biased towards the latching position. When the resilient latch 548 is depressed to the unlatching position, the snap fit interface does not prevent the retaining sleeve 542 from being rotated relative to the shroud 526 from the retaining rotation position to the release rotation position.

[0055] When the outer fastener 528 is installed on the shroud 526 as shown in FIG. 34, the outer fastener 528 covers and blocks access to the release actuation position 552. Thus, while the outer fastener 528 is installed on the shroud 526, the release actuation portion 552 is inaccessible and the retaining sleeve 542 is prevented by the snap-fit ​​interface being rotated relative to the shroud 526 from its retaining rotational position to its releasing rotational position. To access the release actuation portion 552, the outer fastener 528 may be removed from the shroud 526 by separating the lanyard 532 from the outer fastener 528 and then breaking the outer fastener 528. In certain examples, the outer fastener 528 may include a predetermined break location 560 (see FIG. 42). In one example, the predetermined break location 560 may include a predetermined break line 561 defined by a line of reduced cross-sectional area defined through a thickness of the fastener 528. The reduced thickness may be provided by a longitudinal slit provided axially along the body of the outer fastening member 528.

[0056] In a particular example, a tool carried by the outer dust cap 530 may be used to break the outer fastener 528 along the predetermined break line. In one example, a pry tool 570 may be integral with the outer dust cap 530. The pry tool 570 may be configured to fit within a pry tool receiving notch 572 defined by the outer fastener 528 at the predetermined break location. By inserting the pry tool 570 into the pry tool receiving notch 572 and twisting the dust cap, the outer fastener 528 may crack along the longitudinal break line(s) 561. In one example, break locations 560 are provided on opposing sides of the fastener 528 to allow the fastener 528 to be broken in half by breaking the fastener 528 at each of the break locations 560.

[0057] It will be appreciated that during assembly of the fiber optic connector 520, the lanyard 532 and the rear end of the outer fastener 528 are first inserted onto the core assembly 522. The shroud 526 is then inserted onto the core 534 of the core assembly 522, and the retaining sleeve 542 of the core assembly 522 interlocks with the rear end 544 of the shroud 526 to mechanically couple the shroud 526 to the core assembly 524. The outer fastener 528 is then slid forward onto the shroud 526, passing through a fastener latch 580 ( FIG. 37 ), which functions to retain the outer fastener 528 on the shroud 526. It will be appreciated that the outer fastener 528 may rotate about the shroud 526. The front end of the lanyard 532 may then be coupled to the outer dust cap 530, and the outer dust cap 530 may be secured to the remainder of the fiber optic connector by threading the threaded interface of the outer fastener 528 into the threaded interface of the outer dust cap 530. The fastener latch 580 prevents the outer fastener 528 from being removed from the shroud 526 without breaking the outer fastener 528 at a predetermined break location.

[0058] 45, the dust cap 530, lanyard 532, fasteners 528, and shroud 526 of FIG. 33 may form an assembly 531 that is preassembled together prior to connection to the core assembly 522. As shown, one end of the lanyard 532 is coupled to the dust cap 530 (e.g., adjacent the front end of the dust cap) and the opposite end of the lanyard is coupled to the outer fasteners 528 (e.g., adjacent the rear end of the fasteners). A forward portion of the shroud 526 fits within the dust cap 530 and the fasteners 528 are mounted on the rear portion of the shroud 526. The fasteners 528 connect to the dust cap 530 with a turn-and-set connection to hold the shroud 526 within the dust cap 530. The preassembled nature of the assembly 531 prevents lost parts and facilitates use in the field. In certain examples, the core assembly 522 may be coupled to the shroud 526 via a turn-and-set connection without requiring disassembly of the assembly 531. For example, the core 534 of the core assembly 522 is inserted into the shroud 526 through an aft end of the shroud 526 that is accessible at the aft end of the assembly 531. Also, a retaining sleeve 542 of the core assembly 522 interlocks with an aft end 544 of the shroud 526 to mechanically couple the shroud 526 to the core assembly 524. A turn-and-set connection interface at the aft end 544 of the shroud 526 is accessible at the aft end of the assembly 531 for coupling with the retaining sleeve 542. In other examples, at least partial disassembly of the assembly 531 may be required for connection to the core assembly 522.

[0059] It will be appreciated that the first and second stop configurations disclosed herein provide two separate interlocking functions when in a coupled rotational state. One of the interlocking functions provides an interlocking feature that interlocks to resist axial movement between two components that are desired to be coupled together. For example, the axial interlocking feature interlocks to prevent a first one of the components from being axially disengaged or pulled out from the second one. The second interlocking feature may be provided by a snap fit feature that functions to prevent rotational movement between the two components when the two components are in a coupled rotational state. The second interlocking feature functions to prevent or resist rotation of the components from a coupled rotational state, where the components are axially fixed together, to an uncoupled rotational state, where the two components may be axially separated from one another. The components may include fiber optic connectors, connector retaining sleeves, fiber optic adapters, dust caps, retaining sleeves, rotatable fastening elements, connector parts, connector shrouds, and the like. The present disclosure also includes the following aspects. [Aspect 1] A turn-and-fix connection interface, comprising: a first component and a second component that are axially insertable together and aligned along an axis when axially inserted together; the first component includes a rotation locking latch, the first component also includes a first stop arrangement including a first stop surface facing a first axial direction along the axis and a second stop surface facing a second axial direction along the axis, the first axial direction being opposite to the second axial direction, the first component further including a third stop surface facing a first rotational direction about the axis; a second component includes a rotation locking catch, said second component also including a second stop arrangement including a fourth stop surface facing in said second axial direction, a fifth stop surface facing in said first axial direction, and a sixth stop surface facing in a second rotation direction about said axis that is opposite to said first rotation direction; the turn-and-fix connection interface is positionable in a first rotational state in which the first stop surface faces the fourth stop surface, the second stop surface is rotationally offset from the fifth stop surface, and the third stop surface is rotationally offset from the sixth stop surface by a rotational angle of 360 degrees or less; the turn-and-fixture connection interface is positionable in a second rotational state in which the first stop surface faces the fourth stop surface, the second stop surface faces the fifth stop surface, and the third stop surface faces and is adjacent to the sixth stop surface; the turn-and-fix connection interface is movable from the first rotational state to the second rotational state by rotating first and second components relative to one another through the rotation angle; the turn-lock latch and the turn-lock catch are circumferentially opposed to each other when the turn-lock connection interface is in the second rotational state to resist rotation of the turn-lock interface from the second rotational state to the first rotational state; a turn-and-lock connection interface, wherein contact between the turn-and-lock latch and the turn-and-lock catch resiliently bends the turn-and-lock latch from a locked position to a clearance position as the turn-and-lock connection interface is moved from the first rotational state to the second rotational state to allow the turn-and-lock latch and the turn-and-lock catch to move rotationally past each other, and the turn-and-lock latch resiliently returns to the locked position after the turn-and-lock latch and the turn-and-lock catch have moved past each other to resist rotation of the turn-and-lock interface from the second rotational state to the first rotational state. [Aspect 2] A turn-and-fix connection interface, wherein the first component is a fiber optic adapter or a dust cap, and the second component is a fastening member of a fiber optic connector. [Aspect 3] 3. The turn-and-lock connection interface of claim 1 or 2, wherein the turn-and-lock latch includes a beam having first and second ends fixed relative to a main body of the first component, the length of the beam extending across an open space defined between the beam and the main body. Aspect 4 4. The turn-and-lock connection interface of claim 3, wherein the beam includes a first side facing the first rotational direction and a second side facing the second rotational direction, the rotational lock catch includes an inclined surface facing the second rotational direction and a seventh stop surface facing the first rotational direction, the inclined surface engaging the first side to move the beam from the locked position to the clearance position, and the seventh stop surface opposing the second side to resist rotation of the turn-and-lock interface from the second rotational state to the first rotational state. Aspect 5 3. The turn-and-fix connection interface of claim 1 or 2, wherein the first component includes at least one first triangular protrusion having a first side defining the second stop surface and a second side defining the third stop surface, and the second component includes at least one recess that is triangular and has at least a portion defined by a first side defining the fifth stop surface and a second side defining the sixth stop surface. Aspect 6 6. The turn-and-fix connection interface of claim 5, wherein the second stop surface and the fifth stop surface are oriented on a reference plane that is perpendicular to the axis. Aspect 7 7. The turn-and-fix connection interface of embodiment 6, wherein the first triangular protrusion includes a corner facing in the first axial direction. Aspect 8 2. The turn-and-lock connection interface of claim 1, wherein the turn-and-lock latch needs to be damaged in order to rotate the turn-and-lock interface from the second rotation state to the first rotation state. Aspect 9 1. An optical fiber assembly comprising: a fiber optic connector having a connector end, the fiber optic connector defining an axis, the fiber optic connector supporting an optical fiber having a fiber end adjacent the connector end, the fiber optic connector further including a retention sleeve; and a cap mounted on the connector end to protect the fiber end, the cap secured to the fiber optic connector by the retaining sleeve, the retaining sleeve and the cap being axially insertable together and, when inserted together, rotatable relative to one another between a first rotational state and a second rotational state, the cap being axially removable from the fiber optic connector when the retaining sleeve and cap are in the first rotational state and the cap is not axially removable from the fiber optic connector when the retaining sleeve and cap are in the second rotational state, the cap and the retaining sleeve including a snap fit interface to hold the cap and the retaining sleeve in the second rotational state, the snap fit interface requiring damage to move the retaining sleeve and the cap from the second rotational state to the first rotational state. Aspect 10 10. The optical fiber assembly of claim 9, wherein the snap-fit ​​connection requires being broken to move the retaining sleeve and the cap from the second rotational state to the first rotational state. Aspect 11 1. An optical fiber connector, comprising: a connector body defining a connector axis; a retaining sleeve for securing the fiber optic connector to a fiber optic adapter, the retaining sleeve mounted on the connector body and rotatable relative to the connector body about the axis, the retaining sleeve including a stop feature within the retaining sleeve adapted to interface with a corresponding stop feature on the fiber optic adapter, the stop feature of the retaining sleeve including axial stop surfaces facing in first and second axial directions opposed along the connector axis, and the stop feature of the retaining sleeve also including rotational stop surfaces facing in first and second rotational directions opposed about the connector axis. Aspect 12 12. The optical fiber connector of claim 11, wherein the stop configuration includes at least a recess having at least a portion that is triangular and defined by a first side that defines a first axial stop surface of the axial stop surfaces and a second side that defines a first rotational stop surface of the rotational stop surfaces. Aspect 13 The optical fiber connector of embodiment 12, wherein the stop configuration includes at least one rotationally fixed catch that defines a second one of the rotational stop surfaces and also includes an inclined surface that does not face the second one of the rotational stop surfaces. Aspect 14 14. The fiber optic connector of claim 13, wherein the recess includes an access gap, the access gap tapering to expand as it extends toward the open end of the retaining sleeve. Aspect 15 15. The optical fiber connector of claim 14, wherein the first of the axial stop surfaces does not face the open end of the retaining sleeve and is oriented along a reference plane that is perpendicular to the connector axis. Aspect 16 16. The optical fiber connector of claim 15, wherein a second one of the axial stop surfaces is defined by an internal shoulder that faces toward the open end of the retaining sleeve and extends in a circumferential orientation within the retaining sleeve. Aspect 17 1. A fiber optic adapter, comprising: 1. A fiber optic adapter comprising: an adapter body defining an adapter axis, the optical adapter body including a stop arrangement integrated with an exterior of the adapter body for interfacing with a corresponding stop arrangement of a fiber optic connector, the stop arrangement of the adapter body including axial stop surfaces facing in opposing first and second axial directions along the adapter axis, and the stop arrangement of the adapter body also including rotational stop surfaces facing in opposing first and second rotational directions about the adapter axis. Aspect 18 18. The fiber optic adapter of embodiment 17, further comprising a resilient rotational locking latch. Aspect 19 19. The fiber optic adapter of embodiment 18, wherein the rotational locking latch includes a beam having first and second ends fixed relative to the adapter body, the length of the beam extending across an open space defined between the beam and the adapter body. Aspect 20 20. The optical fiber adapter of claim 19, wherein the stop configuration includes at least one triangular protrusion having a first side defining a first axial stop surface of the axial stop surfaces and a second side defining a first rotational stop surface of the rotational stop surfaces, a second rotational stop surface of the rotational stop surfaces being defined by a side of the beam. Aspect 21 21. The optical fiber adapter of claim 20, wherein a corner of the at least one triangular protrusion faces axially outward from the adapter body and the first side of the at least one triangular protrusion faces axially inward toward the adapter body and is oriented along a reference plane that is perpendicular to the adapter axis. Aspect 22 2. The turn-and-fix connection interface of claim 1, wherein the rotation angle is less than or equal to 180 degrees. Aspect 23 2. The turn-and-fix connection interface of claim 1, wherein the rotation angle is less than or equal to 90 degrees. Aspect 24 A turn-and-fix connection interface, comprising: a first component defining a first axis and a second component defining a second axis, the first and second components configured to be axially inserted together and mechanically coupled together when the first and second components are coaxially aligned, the first component including a first stop arrangement and the second component including a second stop arrangement; the first and second components are configured to be rotated relative to one another about the first and second axes between first and second rotational states when the first and second components are axially inserted together, the first and second stop arrangements are configured to limit a range of rotational movement between the first and second rotational states, the first and second stop arrangements are configured to allow the first and second components to be axially separated from one another when the first and second components are in the first rotational state and to prevent the first and second components from being axially separated from one another when the first and second components are in the second rotational state; A turn-and-fix connection interface, wherein the first and second components include a snap-fit ​​arrangement for resisting movement of the first and second components from the second rotated state to the first rotated state. Aspect 25 25. The turn-and-fix connection interface of embodiment 24, wherein the first and second stop formations each comprise a triangular protrusion and a recess having at least a portion that is triangular. Aspect 26 26. The turn-and-fix connection interface of claim 25, wherein the triangular protrusions of the first stop configuration are spaced circumferentially about the first axis and the recesses of the second stop configuration are spaced circumferentially about the second axis. Aspect 27 27. The turn-and-fix interface of claim 26, wherein the triangular protrusion has a corner facing in a first axial direction, and the recess has an access gap that tapers to receive the triangular protrusion when the first and second components are axially inserted together. Aspect 28 27. The turn-and-fix interface of embodiment 26, wherein the triangular protrusions each include a first side defining an axial stop surface and a second side defining a rotational stop surface. Aspect 29 29. The turn-and-fix interface of any one of embodiments 24-28, wherein the snap-fit ​​arrangement includes a flexible beam latch integral with a first component having a fixed end, an inclined surface for bending the flexible beam latch to a clearance position to allow the first and second components to be rotated from the first rotational state to the second rotational state, and a catch integral with the second component having a retention surface for engaging the flexible beam latch to resist rotation of the first and second components from the second rotational state to the first rotational state. Aspect 30 30. The turn-and-fix interface of any one of claims 24-29, wherein the snap-fit ​​configuration requires being broken to move the first and second components from the second rotational state to the first rotational state. Aspect 31 31. The turn-and-fix interface of any one of claims 24-30, wherein the first and second components do not move axially relative to one another when the first and second components are rotated between the first and second rotational states. Aspect 32

[0046] Aspect 31. The turn-and-fix interface of any one of aspects 24-30, wherein the snap-fit ​​arrangement interlocks without requiring axial movement between the first and second components. Aspect 33 29. The turn-and-fix interface of any one of embodiments 24-28, wherein the snap-fit ​​arrangement includes a flexible beam latch integral with a first component, a ramped surface for flexing the flexible beam latch to a clearance position to allow the first and second components to be rotated from the first rotational state to the second rotational state, and a catch integral with the second component having a retention surface for engaging the flexible beam latch to resist rotation of the first and second components from the second rotational state to the first rotational state. Aspect 34 34. The turn-and-fix interface of embodiment 33, wherein the flexible beam latch has a cantilever configuration. Aspect 35 34. The turn-and-fix interface of embodiment 33, wherein the flexible beam latch has a length that extends in a direction transverse to a direction of rotation between the first and second rotational states. Aspect 36 34. The turn-and-fix interface of embodiment 33, wherein the flexible beam latch has a length extending in a direction parallel to a direction of rotation between the first and second rotational states. Aspect 37 37. The turn-and-fix interface of embodiment 36, wherein the flexible beam latch has a cantilever configuration. Aspect 38 38. The turn-and-fix interface of claim 37, wherein the flexible beam latch includes an axially offset portion adjacent a free end of the flexible beam latch adapted to engage with the inclined surface when the first and second components are rotated from the first rotational state to the second rotational state. Aspect 39 40. The turn-and-fix interface of embodiment 38, wherein the axially offset portion is inclined. Aspect 40 40. The turn-and-fix interface of any one of claims 31-39, wherein the snap-fit ​​configuration requires being broken to move the first and second components from the second rotational state to the first rotational state. Aspect 41 31. The turn-and-fix interface of any one of claims 24-30, wherein the snap-fit ​​configuration does not need to be broken to move the first and second components from the second rotational state to the first rotational state. Aspect 42 42. The turn-and-fix interface of claim 41, further comprising a retaining collar non-rotatably mounted to one of the first and second components, the retaining collar being slidable from a first position in which the retaining collar prevents relative rotation between the first and second components, and a second position in which the retaining collar enables rotation between the first and second components. Aspect 43 43. The turn-and-fix interface of embodiment 42, wherein the retention collar is spring biased toward the first position. Aspect 44 25. The turn-and-lock interface of claim 24, wherein at least one of the first and second stop arrangements includes a tapered lead-in portion for moving the first and second components toward a fully axially inserted position as the first and second components rotate from the first rotational state to the second rotational state. Aspect 45 1. An optical fiber connector, comprising: a core assembly including a core supporting a ferrule; A shroud mounted over the core assembly, a shroud, the core assembly including a retaining sleeve rotationally interlocking with the shroud to couple the shroud to the core assembly, the retaining sleeve rotatable relative to the shroud between a retaining rotational position and a releasing rotational position; a snap-fit ​​interface for retaining the retaining sleeve in the retaining rotated position relative to the shroud, the snap-fit ​​interface including a flexible retention latch movable between a latched position, where the snap-fit ​​interface is adapted to retain the retaining sleeve in the retaining rotated position, and an unlatched position, where the retaining sleeve may be rotated from the retaining rotated position to the release rotated position, the flexible retention latch being biased toward the latched position and including a release actuation portion for allowing the flexible retention latch to be manually moved from the latched position to the unlatched position while the retaining sleeve is in the retaining rotated position; an outer fastener mounted over the shroud, the outer fastener having a turn-and-lock interface adapted to mate with a corresponding interface of a dust cap, a fiber optic adapter, or another fiber optic connector, the outer fastener blocking access to a release actuation portion of the flexible retention latch when mounted on the shroud. Aspect 46 46. ​​The fiber optic connector of claim 45, wherein the outer fastening member requires breaking to remove the outer fastening member from the shroud and provide access to the release actuation portion. Aspect 47 47. The fiber optic connector of claim 46, wherein the outer fastening member includes a predetermined break location. Aspect 48 48. The fiber optic connector of claim 47, wherein the predetermined break location includes a predetermined break line and a notch for receiving a pry tool. Aspect 49 49. The optical fiber connector of claim 48, further comprising an outer dust cap held over at least a portion of the core assembly and shroud by the outer fastening member, the pry tool being integral with the outer dust cap. Aspect 50 1. An assembly for connection to a core assembly, said assembly comprising: Dust cap and a shroud received within the dust cap; an outer turn fastener secured to the dust cap for retaining the shroud within the dust cap; a lanyard having one end connected to the dust cap and an opposite end connected to the outer turn and fastener; The assembly, wherein the assembly is preassembled prior to connection to the core assembly. Aspect 51 The assembly of embodiment 50, wherein the assembly is configured such that the core assembly can be connected to the shroud without requiring disassembly of the assembly.

Claims

1. A turn-and-fix connection interface, comprising: a first component defining a first axis and a second component defining a second axis, the first and second components configured to be axially inserted together and mechanically coupled together when the first and second components are coaxially aligned, the first component including a first stop arrangement and the second component including a second stop arrangement; the first and second components are configured to be rotated relative to one another about the first and second axes between first and second rotational states when the first and second components are axially inserted together, the first and second stop arrangements are configured to limit a range of rotational movement between the first and second rotational states, the first and second stop arrangements are configured to allow the first and second components to be axially separated from one another when the first and second components are in the first rotational state and to prevent the first and second components from being axially separated from one another when the first and second components are in the second rotational state; the first and second components do not move axially relative to one another as the first and second components are rotated between the first and second rotational states; A turn-and-fix connection interface, wherein the first and second components include a snap-fit ​​arrangement for resisting movement of the first and second components from the second rotational state to the first rotational state, the snap-fit ​​arrangement interlocking without requiring axial movement between the first and second components.

2. The turn-and-fix connection interface of claim 1 , wherein the first and second stop formations each include a triangular protrusion and a recess having at least a portion that is triangular.

3. 3. The turn-and-fix connection interface of claim 2, wherein the triangular protrusions of the first stop arrangement are spaced circumferentially about the first axis and the recesses of the second stop arrangement are spaced circumferentially about the second axis.

4. 4. The turn-and-fix connection interface of claim 3, wherein the triangular protrusion has a corner facing in a first axial direction, and the recess has an access gap that tapers to receive the triangular protrusion when the first and second components are axially inserted together.

5. The turn-and-fix connection interface of claim 3 , wherein the triangular protrusions each include a first side defining an axial stop surface and a second side defining a rotational stop surface.

6. 6. The turn-and-fix connection interface of claim 1, wherein the snap-fit ​​arrangement includes a flexible beam latch integral with a first component having a fixed end, an inclined surface for bending the flexible beam latch to a clearance position to allow the first and second components to be rotated from the first rotational state to the second rotational state, and a catch integral with the second component having a retention surface for engaging the flexible beam latch to resist rotation of the first and second components from the second rotational state to the first rotational state.

7. 6. The turn-and-fix connection interface of claim 1, wherein the snap-fit ​​arrangement includes a flexible beam latch integral with a first component, an inclined surface for bending the flexible beam latch to a clearance position to allow the first and second components to be rotated from the first rotational state to the second rotational state, and a catch integral with the second component having a retention surface for engaging the flexible beam latch to resist rotation of the first and second components from the second rotational state to the first rotational state.

8. The turn-and-fix connection interface of claim 7 , wherein the flexible beam latch has a cantilever configuration.

9. The turn-and-fix connection interface of claim 7 , wherein the flexible beam latch has a length that extends transversely to a direction of rotation between the first and second rotational states.

10. The turn-and-fix connection interface of claim 7 , wherein the flexible beam latch has a length that extends in a direction parallel to a direction of rotation between the first and second rotational states.

11. 11. The turn-and-fix connection interface of claim 10, wherein the flexible beam latch has a cantilever configuration, the flexible beam latch including an axially offset portion adjacent a free end of the flexible beam latch adapted to engage the angled surface when the first and second components are rotated from the first rotational state to the second rotational state.

12. The turn-and-fix connection interface of claim 11 , wherein the axially offset portion is angled.

13. the snap-fit ​​arrangement does not need to be broken to move the first and second components from the second rotational state to the first rotational state; a retaining collar non-rotatably mounted to one of the first and second components, the retaining collar being slidable from a first position in which the retaining collar prevents relative rotation between the first and second components, and a second position in which the retaining collar permits rotation between the first and second components; The turn-and-fix connection interface of claim 1 , wherein the retention collar is spring biased toward the first position.

14. 2. The turn-and-fix connection interface of claim 1, wherein at least one of the first and second stop arrangements includes a tapered lead-in for moving the first and second components toward a fully axially inserted position as the first and second components rotate from the first rotational state to the second rotational state.

15. The turn-and-fix connection interface of claim 1 , wherein at least one of the first and second stop arrangements includes at least four axial stop surfaces.

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