Optical connector switch, system, and method

Abstract

The fiber optic connector may include a body, at least one input coupling configured to receive at least one fiber optic input cable, at least one output coupling configured to receive at least one fiber optic output cable, and at least one shuttle, the shuttle movable within the body between a connected position and a disconnected position, such that when the at least one shuttle is in the connected position, the at least one fiber optic input cable and the at least one fiber optic output cable are optically connected, and when the at least one shuttle is in the disconnected position, the at least one fiber optic input cable and the at least one fiber optic output cable are not optically connected.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims priority to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17 / 591,281, entitled “Optical Connector Switches, Systems, and Methods,” filed Feb. 2, 2022, the entire contents of which are hereby fully incorporated by reference.

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to systems and methods for connecting and disconnecting fiber optic cables in a network distribution system, and more specifically, in some embodiments, the present disclosure relates to systems and methods for connecting and disconnecting an optical connection between a fiber optic input cable and a fiber optic output cable using a fiber optic connector that includes a built-in switch. [Background technology]

[0003] A fiber optic network distribution system typically includes multiple fiber optic cables that may be from multiple service providers. The fiber optic cables are configured to carry data in the form of optical signals, and therefore require special connections at the termination point of each fiber optic cable to ensure that the optical signals are properly transmitted. The fiber optic cables can carry optical signals from a point or source, such as a service provider, to a point of use, such as a data center network cabinet or patch panel. Each point of use may house multiple fiber optic cables and connection points.

[0004] To connect or disconnect service to a user or to switch service providers at a service point, the fiber optic cables may be spliced ​​or terminated with connectors or types of couplers that require a technician to manually insert and / or remove the necessary fiber optic cables from the service point. Furthermore, splicing and / or adding connectors / couplers to fiber optic cables typically requires specialized training and equipment, and even a relatively simple service provider switching service may require a significant amount of time to complete.

[0005] Thus, all of the above-mentioned conventional systems suffer from shortcomings that continue to make connect / disconnect and switching difficult for service providers that use fiber optic cables.The present disclosure overcomes one or more shortcomings in the art. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Methods and systems disclosed herein include a fiber optic cable connection system that allows for quick and efficient connection and disconnection of fiber optic cables. One embodiment includes a fiber optic connector, the fiber optic connector including a body, at least one input coupling configured to receive at least one fiber optic input cable, at least one output coupling configured to receive at least one fiber optic output cable, and at least one shuttle. The shuttle is movable within the body between a connection position and a disconnection position, and when the at least one shuttle is in the connection position, the at least one fiber optic input cable and the at least one fiber optic output cable are optically connected, and when the at least one shuttle is in the disconnection position, the at least one fiber optic input cable and the at least one fiber optic output cable are not optically connected.

[0007] In some examples, the present disclosure relates to a fiber optic connector including a body, at least one input coupling configured to optically communicate with at least one optical fiber input cable, at least one output coupling configured to optically communicate with at least one optical fiber output cable, and at least one shuttle movable within the body between a connected position and a disconnected position. When the at least one shuttle is in the connected position, the at least one optical fiber input cable and the at least one optical fiber output cable are optically connected. When the at least one shuttle is in the disconnected position, the at least one optical fiber input cable and the at least one optical fiber output cable are not optically connected.

[0008] In some aspects, the at least one shuttle comprises one of an input coupling and an output coupling. In some aspects, at least one of the at least one input coupling and the at least one shuttle is connected to at least one selector, the at least one selector configured to move between an on position and an off position. The at least one selector may be configured to move the at least one shuttle to a connected position when the at least one selector is in the on position, and the at least one selector may be configured to move the at least one shuttle to a disconnected position when the at least one selector is in the off position. In some aspects, the at least one selector comprises at least one of a rack and pinion selector including at least a portion of the at least one shuttle, a rotatable lever connected to the at least one shuttle, a slider selector, and a push button selector. In some aspects, the at least one selector comprises a locking mechanism configured to prevent the at least one selector from moving from either the on position or the off position when the locking mechanism is activated. In some aspects, the fiber optic connector can include at least one input coupling shutter extending through at least a portion of the at least one input coupling and at least one output coupling shutter extending through at least a portion of the at least one output coupling. Each of the at least one input coupling shutter and the at least one output coupling shutter can include at least one of a dust shutter and a light protection shutter. The dust shutter can be configured to prevent ingress of dust into the body, and the light protection shutter can be configured to prevent transmission of light through at least one of the at least one input coupling and the at least one output coupling.In some aspects, the fiber optic connector may further include at least one shuttle actuator connected to the at least one shuttle, the at least one shuttle actuator configured to move the at least one shuttle between a connected position and a disconnected position using at least one of electrical energy, mechanical energy, and potential energy. In some aspects, the fiber optic connector may further include at least one optical detector connected to the fiber optic connector. The at least one optical detector may be configured to determine connectivity between the at least one optical fiber input cable and the at least one optical fiber output cable. In some aspects, the fiber optic connector may further include at least one optical fiber coupler extending between the at least one shuttle and one of the at least one input coupling and the at least one output coupling. In some aspects, the fiber optic connector may further include a plurality of connected bodies. In some aspects, the body may be at least one of a cylindrical, rectangular, spherical, and tapered shape. In some aspects, at least one of the at least one input coupling and the at least one output coupling includes a sealing mechanism configured to interface with the at least one fiber optic input cable and the at least one fiber optic output cable, respectively, to prevent ingress of fluid into an internal cavity of the body of the fiber optic connector. In some aspects, the body includes a mounting mechanism configured to interface with a distribution bank mount. In some aspects, the body includes an upper cassette housing and a lower cassette housing. In some aspects, each of the at least one input coupling and the at least one output coupling includes at least one of a small form factor connector and a multi-fiber connector. In some aspects, the at least one selector is a lever as a rotating rod, a biasing member, and a lever cap.

[0009] In an exemplary embodiment, the optical fiber network distribution system may include a distribution bank, at least one optical fiber input cable, at least one optical fiber output cable, and at least one optical fiber connector positioned within the distribution bank. The at least one optical fiber connector may include a body, at least one input coupling configured to optically communicate with the at least one optical fiber input cable, at least one output coupling configured to optically communicate with the at least one optical fiber output cable, and at least one shuttle movable within the body between a connected position and a disconnected position. When the at least one shuttle is in the connected position, the at least one optical fiber input cable and the at least one optical fiber output cable may be optically connected, and when the at least one shuttle is in the disconnected position, the at least one optical fiber input cable and the at least one optical fiber output cable may not be optically connected.

[0010] In some aspects, the at least one shuttle comprises one of an input coupling and an output coupling. In some aspects, at least one of the at least one input coupling and the at least one shuttle may be connected to at least one selector, and the at least one selector may be configured to move between an on position and an off position. When the at least one selector is in the on position, the at least one selector may be configured to move the at least one shuttle to a connected position, and when the at least one selector is in the off position, the at least one selector may be configured to move the at least one shuttle to a disconnected position. In some aspects, the at least one selector comprises at least one of a rack and pinion selector including at least a portion of the at least one shuttle, a rotatable lever connected to the at least one shuttle, a slider selector, and a push button selector. In some aspects, the at least one selector comprises a locking mechanism configured to prevent the at least one selector from moving from either the on position or the off position when the locking mechanism is activated. In some aspects, the optical fiber network distribution system may further include at least one input coupling shutter extending through at least a portion of the at least one input coupling and at least one output coupling shutter extending through at least a portion of the at least one output coupling, each of the at least one input coupling shutter and the at least one output coupling shutter including at least one of a dust shutter and a light protection shutter, the dust shutter configured to prevent ingress of dust into the body, and the light protection shutter configured to prevent transmission of light through at least one of the at least one input coupling and the at least one output coupling.In some aspects, the optical fiber network distribution system may further include at least one shuttle actuator connected to the at least one shuttle, the at least one shuttle actuator configured to move the at least one shuttle between a connected position and a disconnected position using at least one of electrical energy, mechanical energy, and potential energy. In some aspects, the optical fiber network distribution system may further include at least one optical detector connected to the optical fiber connector, the at least one optical detector configured to determine connectivity between the at least one optical fiber input cable and the at least one optical fiber output cable. In some aspects, the optical fiber network distribution system may further include at least one optical fiber coupler extending between the at least one shuttle and one of the at least one input coupling and the at least one output coupling. In some aspects, the optical fiber network distribution system may further include a plurality of connected bodies. In some aspects, the body is at least one of cylindrical, rectangular, spherical, and tapered. In some embodiments, at least one of the at least one input coupling and the at least one output coupling includes a sealing mechanism configured to interface with the at least one fiber optic input cable and the at least one fiber optic output cable, respectively, to prevent ingress of fluid into an internal cavity of the body of the fiber optic connector. In some embodiments, the body includes a mounting mechanism configured to interface with a distribution bank mount.

[0011] In yet another aspect, the present disclosure relates to a method of connecting fiber optic cables in a network distribution system, the method can include positioning a fiber optic connector in a distribution bank, connecting an input fiber optic cable to an input coupling of the fiber optic connector, connecting an output fiber optic cable to an output coupling of the fiber optic connector, and moving a shuttle within a body of the fiber optic connector from a disconnected position to a connected position. When the shuttle is in the connected position, the input fiber optic cable and the output fiber optic cable can be optically connected, and when the shuttle is in the disconnected position, the input fiber optic cable and the output fiber optic cable can be optically unconnected.

[0012] In yet another aspect, the present disclosure relates to a method of providing data services in an optical network distribution system, the method including providing an optical fiber distribution bank having a plurality of switches for connecting and disconnecting optical fiber cables from a central optical fiber input cable to a plurality of optical fiber output cables, and closing the switches to connect one or more of the optical fiber output cables to the optical fiber input cable. Closing the switches can include moving a shuttle within a body of the optical fiber connector from a disconnected position to a connected position. When the shuttle is in the connected position, the optical fiber input cable and the optical fiber output cable can be optically connected, and when the shuttle is in the disconnected position, the optical fiber input cable and the optical fiber output cable can be optically unconnected.

[0013] Additional embodiments and methods of use are contemplated herein.

[0014] Further objects, forms, embodiments, aspects, features, advantages, and benefits of the present disclosure will become apparent from the detailed drawings and description provided herein. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0015] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary optical fiber network according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] 1 is a schematic diagram of another exemplary optical fiber network according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a front view of an exemplary distribution bank that can be used with the optical fiber network shown in FIG. 2, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an exemplary fiber optic connector that can be used with the distribution bank shown in FIG. 3 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of the exemplary fiber optic connector shown in FIG. 4 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary input coupling and an exemplary shuttle that can be used with the exemplary fiber optic connector shown in FIG. 4 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary output coupling that can be used with the exemplary fiber optic connector shown in FIG. 4 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary selector that can be used with the exemplary fiber optic connector shown in FIG. 4 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9A] FIG. 9 is a front view of the example selector shown in FIG. 8 in an off position according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9B] 9 is a front view of the example selector shown in FIG. 8 in an off position and an example lever cap in a depressed position according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9C] 9 is a front view of the example selector shown in FIG. 8 in a transition position according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9D]FIG. 9 is a front view of the example selector shown in FIG. 8 in an on position and an example lever in a depressed position according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9E] FIG. 9 is a front view of the example selector shown in FIG. 8 in an on position according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10A] FIG. 5 is a side cross-sectional view of the exemplary fiber optic connector shown in FIG. 4 in a disconnected position according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10B] 5 is a side cross-sectional view of the exemplary fiber optic connector shown in FIG. 4 in a disconnected position and an exemplary fiber optic input cable according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10C] 5 is a side cross-sectional view of the exemplary fiber optic connector shown in FIG. 4 in a disconnected position, illustrating an exemplary fiber optic input cable and an exemplary fiber optic output cable according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10D] 5 is a side cross-sectional view of the exemplary fiber optic connector shown in FIG. 4 in a connected position, an exemplary fiber optic input cable, and an exemplary fiber optic output cable, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary ganged fiber optic connector according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] 1 is a side cross-sectional view of an exemplary fiber optic connector illustrating an exemplary rack and pinion selector, an exemplary fiber optic coupler, and an exemplary photodetector, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] 1 is a side cross-sectional view of an exemplary fiber optic connector showing an exemplary motorized shuttle according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14] 1 is a side cross-sectional view of an exemplary fiber optic connector showing exemplary multiple input couplings and an exemplary multi-position shuttle according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 15]FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary fiber optic connector showing an exemplary cylindrical body, an exemplary sealing mechanism, and an exemplary rotating shuttle according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the exemplary fiber optic connector shown in FIG. 15 illustrating an exemplary slidable selector according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 17] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the exemplary fiber optic connector shown in FIG. 15 illustrating an exemplary rack and pinion selector according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 18] 1 is a flowchart illustrating a method for connecting fiber optic cables in a network distribution system using fiber optic connectors, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0016] For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will be made to certain embodiments or examples illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be used to describe the same, it being understood, however, that no limitation on the scope of the invention is intended. Alterations and further modifications of the described embodiments, and further applications of the principles of the invention as described herein, are contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention pertains.

[0017] 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary fiber optic network 100. The fiber optic network 100 may be utilized to transmit data, such as Internet service, television service, telephone service, or other services transmitted over or utilizing the fiber optic network, to data consumers, such as customers. In an exemplary embodiment, a central distribution office 102 or optical line terminal (OLT) provides optical signals to a number of fiber optic cables 104. The optical signals travel through the fiber optic cables 104 to a passive optical splitter 106. The passive optical splitter 106 splits the optical signals into the number of fiber optic cables 104 and directs them to at least one of another passive optical splitter 106, a street cabinet 108, and a multiple dwelling unit (MDU) 110. The fiber optic cable 104 exiting the second passive optical splitter 106 can be routed to, for example, at least one of a modem, an optical network terminal (ONT), or an optical master unit (OMU) 112 and a wireless ONT 112 for use by a customer 114. The fiber optic cable 104 exiting the street cabinet 108 can be routed directly to a customer 114. The MDU 110 can provide multiple services to multiple customers 114. The customers 114 can include single-family homes, apartments, condominiums, offices, other tenants, or other types of customers. In some implementations, multiple services can be provided to different floors in an office building or different offices in an office building.

[0018] 2 is a schematic diagram of another exemplary fiber optic network 200. A plurality of fiber optic cables 202 extend between a plurality of service locations 204. In this exemplary embodiment, a distribution bank 206, which may be housed in a distribution box or other enclosure, is located at each branch of the plurality of fiber optic cables 202. The distribution bank 206 is configured to hold a plurality of fiber optic connectors 208, each configured to facilitate quickly and efficiently switching service to the service locations 204 from a disconnected state to a connected state without requiring splicing or other types of modification of the fiber optic cables 202. Additionally, the fiber optic connectors 208 can facilitate switching between service providers without requiring splicing or other types of modification of the fiber optic cables 202.

[0019] 3 is a front view of one of the distribution banks 206 shown in FIG 2, illustrating multiple fiber optic connectors 208 grouped together within the distribution bank 206. In this exemplary embodiment, fiber optic cables 202 enter the distribution bank 206 via connectors 210, which may be waterproof, coupled to the distribution bank 206 and are distributed to multiple fiber optic connectors 208 to facilitate connection / disconnection of services.

[0020] 4-7, the fiber optic connector 208 includes a body 300, an input coupling 302, an output coupling 304, a shuttle 306, and a selector 308. In this example, the body 300 includes an upper cassette housing 310 and a lower cassette housing 312 configured to couple to one another via a snap-fit ​​connection, defining an internal cavity 314 therebetween. The output coupling 304 is positioned opposite the input coupling 302, and each of the output coupling 304 and the input coupling 302 extends through a portion of the lower cassette housing 312. The selector 308 is connected to the shuttle 306 and extends through a portion of the upper cassette housing 310.

[0021] FIG. 6 shows an exploded view of the shuttle 306 and the input coupling 302. In this embodiment, the shuttle 306 includes a body, such as a connector body, that is physically displaced axially toward and away from the output 304. In the illustrated embodiment, the shuttle translates within the lower cassette housing 312 to bring the optical fiber of the output coupling 304 into optical communication with the optical fiber of the input 302. Depending on the embodiment, the shuttle 306 is a body that can be physically displaced either axially, laterally, or at an oblique angle to optically connect the input coupling 302 and the output coupling 304. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the shuttle 306 and the input coupling 302 are coupled together and operate as a single assembly. Further, in this embodiment, the shuttle 306 and the input coupling 302 include a connector housing 316, a split sleeve 318, a ferrule 320, and a coupling sleeve 322. The coupling sleeve 322 is configured to be positioned in a snap-fit ​​relationship over the ferrule 320 such that the ferrule 320 is retained within the connector housing 316. The connector housing 316 is sized and configured to receive a fiber optic cable including at least one of a small form factor (SFF) connector and a multi-fiber connector. In some implementations, the connector housing 316 can be configured to receive an SFF connector including, for example, an MT-RJ connector, a VF-5 connector, an LC connector, an Opti-Jack connector, an SC-DC connector, and an SC-QC connector. In some embodiments, the connector housing 316 can be configured to receive a multi-fiber connector including, for example, a multi-fiber push-on (MPO) connector. In additional implementations, the connector housing 316 can be sized and configured to receive any type of connector that facilitates operation of the fiber optic connector 208 as described herein.

[0022] 7 illustrates an exploded view of the output coupling 304. In this embodiment, the output coupling 304 is an LC-type duplex adapter and includes a spring 324, a dust shutter 326, a lower housing 328, an upper housing 330, a split sleeve 332, an inner housing 334, and a light protection shutter 336. In this embodiment, the upper housing 330 of the output coupling 304 can be sized and configured to accept an SFF connector, including, for example, an MT-RJ connector, a VF-45 connector, an LC connector, an Opti-Jack connector, an SC-DC connector, and an SC-QC connector. In some embodiments, the output coupling 304 can be configured to accept a multi-fiber connector, including, for example, a multi-fiber push-on (MPO) connector. In additional embodiments, the output coupling 304 can be sized and configured to accept any type of connector that facilitates operation of the optical fiber connector 208 as described herein.

[0023] In this embodiment, referring to FIG. 8, the selector 308 includes a lever 338, a pivot rod 340, a biasing member 342, and a lever cap 344. The upper cassette housing 310 includes an internal cam profile 346 (shown in FIGS. 9A-9E) configured to interface with a cam 348 of the lever cap 344, as described below. The biasing member 342 is received within a cavity of the lever 338 and is retained within the cavity by the lever cap 344. The lever cap 344 is configured to be received along an outer profile of a portion of the lever 338 to define a cavity. The biasing member 342 exerts a force against the lever cap 344, biasing the lever cap 344 radially outward. The pivot rod 340 interfaces with the upper cassette housing 210, and the lever 338 rotates about the pivot rod 340.

[0024] 9A-9E show partial schematic views of a selector 308 in multiple operating positions. In this embodiment, the selector 308 may be a toggle switchable between two or more different positions that optically connect the input coupling 302 and the output coupling 304 of the fiber optic connector 208. With reference to FIG. 8 and FIGS. 9A-9E, the selector 308 is configured to move between an "on" position 350 and an "off" position 352, which represent optically connected and optically disconnected positions, respectively. In this embodiment, a shuttle 306 is coupled to the input coupling 302, and moving the selector from the off position 352 to the on position 350 moves the shuttle 306 and the input coupling 302 from a disconnected position 354 to a connected position 356. More specifically, to move the lever 338 from the OFF position 352 (shown in FIG. 9A) to the ON position 350 (shown in FIG. 9E), the lever cap 344 is pushed radially inwardly so that the cam 348 is radially inward of an adjacent transition portion of the internal cam profile 346 (shown in FIG. 9B) and allows the lever 338 to rotate toward the ON position 350 (shown in FIG. 9C). Once the lever 338 is in the ON position 350 (shown in FIG. 9D), the radially inward force acting on the lever cap 344 may be released and the lever cap 344 extends radially outwardly due to the radially outward force acting on the lever cap by the biasing member 342 (shown in FIG. 9E). The cam 348 rests against the ON position 350 portion of the internal cam profile 346 and the selector 308 is locked in the ON position 350. To move the selector 308 from the ON position 350 to the OFF position 352, the reverse action is performed.

[0025] 10A-10D show cross-sectional views of the fiber optic connector 208 in several operational configurations. With reference to FIG. 10A, the selector 308 is in an on position 350 and the shuttle 306 is in a disconnected position 354. Additionally, no fiber optic cable is received in either the input coupling 302 or the output coupling 304. The dust shutter 326 is in an extended position 358 and is biased toward the extended position 358 by the spring 324. In this embodiment, the dust shutter 326 is configured to prevent the ingress of dust and other debris into the internal cavity 314 when the fiber optic output cable 364 is not present in the output coupling 304. In some embodiments, the dust shutter 326 may be positioned proximate an exterior opening of the input coupling 302. With further reference to FIG. 10A, the light protection shutter 336 is in a blocking position 360 that blocks the transmission of light through the output coupling 304.

[0026] Figure 10B illustrates the fiber optic connector 208 with the selector 308 in the off position 352 and the shuttle 306 in the disconnected position 354. The fiber optic input cable 362 is received within the connector housing 316, and the split sleeve 318 and the ferrule 320 are configured to cooperate with the fiber optic input cable 362 to facilitate an optical connection between the ferrule 320 and the fiber optic input cable 362. As shown in Figure 10B, the fiber optic output cable 364 is not received within the upper housing 330 of the output coupling 304 of Figure 10B.

[0027] Figure 10C illustrates fiber optic connector 208 with selector 308 in off position 352, shuttle 306 in disconnected position 354, fiber optic input cable 362 received in connector housing 316, and fiber optic output cable 364 received in upper housing 330. As shown in Figure 10C, dust shutter 326 has been rotated from extended position 358 as compared to Figures 10A-10B as a result of fiber optic input cable 362 being received in upper housing 330.

[0028] 10D illustrates the fiber optic connector 208 with the selector 308 in the on position 350 and the shuttle 306 in the connection position 356. More specifically, the shuttle 306 and the input coupling 302 are moved longitudinally along a connector axis 366 of the fiber optic connector 208 by the selector 308 such that the ferrule 320 of the shuttle 306 is coupled in optical communication with the fiber optic input cable 362 and the fiber optic output cable 364. The position of the ferrule 320 in the connection position 356 facilitates the transmission of light between the fiber optic input cable 362 and the fiber optic output cable 364.

[0029] 10D, in this embodiment, a portion of the connector housing 316 is configured to interface with a portion of the input coupling 302. More specifically, a keyway 368 extends parallel to the connector axis 366 within the lower cassette housing 312 and interfaces with the connector housing 316 to slidably retain the connector housing 316 between the connected position 356 and the disconnected position 354. Furthermore, advancing the shuttle 306 and the input coupling 302 to the connected position 356 deflects the light protection shutter 336 away from the connector axis 366 to further facilitate the transmission of light along the connector axis 366 between the fiber optic input cable 362 and the fiber optic output cable 364. The reverse of the above process can be performed to optically disconnect the fiber optic input cable 362 and the fiber optic output cable 364.

[0030] 11 is a perspective view of a ganged fiber optic connector 208 including a plurality of each of the input couplings 302, the output couplings 302, and the selectors 308. The ganged fiber optic connector 208 may be configured to operate similarly to the fiber optic connector 208, but may be fabricated from a single upper cassette housing 310 and a single lower cassette housing 312, each formed to enclose a plurality of input couplings 302, a plurality of output couplings 304, and a plurality of selectors 308. In this embodiment, the ganged fiber optic connector 208 is shown to include most of the components from eight individual fiber optic connectors 208, but it should be understood that the ganged fiber optic connector may include any number of input couplings 302, output couplings 304, and selectors 308 that facilitate operation of the ganged fiber optic connector 208 as described herein. In some embodiments, a plurality of fiber optic connectors 208 may be coupled together to form the ganged fiber optic connector 208.

[0031] FIG. 12 illustrates a fiber optic connector 400 including a rack and pinion selector 402, a photodetector 404, and a fiber optic coupler 406 extending between the shuttle 306 and the output coupling 304. Many of the features of the fiber optic connector 400 are similar to those described above with respect to the fiber optic connector 208 and will not be repeated here. In this embodiment, the shuttle 306 includes a number of teeth 408 configured to interface with the rack and pinion selector 402, such that rotating the rack and pinion selector 402 from an off position to an on position advances the shuttle 306 into the input coupling 302, past the light protection shutter 336, and into interface with the fiber optic input cable (not shown). The fiber optic coupler 406 is of a length that facilitates winding the fiber optic coupler 406 within the fiber optic connector 400, which allows the shuttle 306 to advance and retract within the fiber optic connector 400 without the fiber optic coupler 406 tauting. The fiber optic connector 400 shown in FIG. 12 may be advantageous in applications where the fiber optic input cable is fixed and / or does not have sufficient length to allow longitudinal movement of the fiber optic input cable when the fiber optic connector 400 is switched from the on position to the off position.

[0032] In this embodiment, the photodetector 404 is positioned adjacent to the input coupling 302 and configured to detect a connection between the fiber optic input cable and the shuttle 306. In some embodiments, the photodetector 404 may be positioned adjacent to the output coupling 304. In this embodiment, the fiber optic coupler 406 is fixed adjacent to the output coupling 304. In some embodiments, the shuttle 306 may be moveable relative to the output coupling 304 and the fiber optic coupler 406 may be fixed adjacent to the input coupling 302.

[0033] FIG. 13 illustrates a fiber optic connector 500 including a motorized shuttle 306. Many of the features of the fiber optic connector 500 are similar to those described above with reference to the fiber optic connector 208 and the fiber optic connector 400 and will not be repeated here. The motorized shuttle 502 includes a shuttle actuator 504 connected to the shuttle 306 and configured to move the shuttle 306 between a connected position and a disconnected position. The shuttle actuator 504 can move the shuttle 306 between a connected position and a disconnected position using at least one of electrical energy, mechanical energy, and potential energy. In this embodiment, the shuttle actuator 504 is connected to a switch (not shown) that assists a user in signaling the shuttle actuator 504 to move the shuttle 306 to a desired position. In some embodiments, the shuttle actuator 504 can be communicatively coupled to a command device using at least one of Wi-Fi, wireless, Bluetooth, and other types of signal coupling.

[0034] 14 illustrates a fiber optic connector 600 including multiple input couplings 302, a single output coupling 304, and a multi-position shuttle 602. Many of the features of the fiber optic connector 600 are similar to those described above with reference to the fiber optic connector 208 and the fiber optic connector 400 and will not be repeated here. The multi-position shuttle 602 is configured to facilitate movement between a disconnected position and at least two connected positions, where the connected position may be a position where the multi-position shuttle is connected to one of the multiple input couplings 302. In some embodiments, each of the input couplings 302 is associated with a separate service provider, and switching between the input couplings 302 facilitates switching service providers without splicing or cutting the fiber optic cable.

[0035] FIG. 15 illustrates a fiber optic connector 700 including a cylindrical body 702, a sealing mechanism 704, and a rotating shuttle 706. Many of the features of the fiber optic connector 700 are similar to those described above with reference to the fiber optic connector 208 and the fiber optic connector 400 and will not be repeated here. The cylindrical body 702 is configured to interface with the output coupling 304 via the sealing mechanism 704, which is configured to be threadably attached to the output coupling 304. Threading the sealing mechanism 704 into the output coupling 304 positions the rotating shuttle 706 proximate to the output coupling 304, and rotating the cylindrical body 702 clockwise advances the rotating shuttle 706 into optically connected relationship with the output coupling 304. The sealing mechanism may include a gasket, grommet, seal, or other component to prevent ingress of liquids and contaminants into the cylindrical body 702 or into the interface between the rotating shuttle 706 and the output coupling 304. Additionally, the sealing mechanism 704 facilitates quick coupling and decoupling of the cylindrical body 702 and the output coupling 304 .

[0036] FIG 16 illustrates fiber optic connector 800 including a slidable selector 802. FIG 17 illustrates fiber optic connector 900 including a cylindrical rack and pinion selector 902. Many of the features of fiber optic connectors 800 and 900 are similar to those described above with respect to fiber optic connector 208, fiber optic connector 400, and fiber optic connector 700 and will not be repeated here. The slidable selector 802 and rack and pinion selector 902 may be used in any application that facilitates operation of fiber optic connector 800 and fiber optic connector 900, respectively, as described herein.

[0037] 18 is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary method 1000 of connecting fiber optic cables in a network distribution system as disclosed herein. The method may begin with step 1002 of positioning a fiber optic connector, such as fiber optic connector 208, in a bank. The method may then include step 1004 of connecting a fiber optic input cable, such as fiber optic input cable 362, to an input (such as input coupling 302) of the fiber optic connector. The method may also include step 1006 of connecting a fiber optic output cable, such as fiber optic output cable 364, to an output (such as output coupling 304) of the fiber optic connector. Finally, the method may include step 1008 of moving a shuttle (such as shuttle 306) within a body (such as body 300) of the fiber optic connector from a disconnected position (such as disconnected position 354) to a connected position (such as connected position 356), where when the shuttle is in the connected position, the fiber optic input cable and the fiber optic output cable are optically connected and when the shuttle is in the disconnected position, the fiber optic input cable and the fiber optic output cable are not optically connected.

[0038] As used herein, the term fiber optic cable may include a single optical fiber or multiple optical fibers. Although the terms input coupling and output coupling are used throughout this specification, this disclosure contemplates using what is referred to as an input coupling as an output coupling structure and what is referred to as an output coupling as an input coupling structure. Furthermore, depending on the embodiment, a shuttle may be associated with an input coupling or an output coupling.

[0039] For purposes of this disclosure, it is understood that "optically connected," "optically coupled," and "optically communicating" may refer to physical contact or non-physical contact forms of optical communication, arrangement, or configuration of optical components described herein. For example, a first optical component (e.g., optical fiber, optical connector, coupling, etc.) may be described as optically connected to or in optical communication with a second optical component (e.g., optical fiber, optical connector, coupling, etc.) if an optical signal can be transmitted from one of the optical components to the other optical component. For example, a first optical component may be optically connected to or in optical communication with a second optical component even if there is no physical contact between the first optical component and the second optical component. For example, a first optical component may be optically connected to or in optical communication with a second optical component even if an intermediate optical component (e.g., a lens) is positioned between the first optical component and the second optical component. In other aspects, a first optical component may be optically connected, optically coupled, and / or optically in communication with a second optical component via physical contact, including direct physical contact and indirect physical contact.

[0040] Applicant notes that the procedures disclosed herein are merely exemplary, and that the systems and methods disclosed herein may be utilized with a variety of other connection types and processes. Although a few selected embodiments have been shown and described in detail, it will be understood that such embodiments are exemplary, and that various substitutions and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the following claims.

Claims

1. 1. An optical fiber connector, comprising: The main body, at least one input coupling configured to optically communicate with the at least one fiber optic input cable; at least one output coupling configured to be in optical communication with at least one fiber optic output cable; at least one shuttle movable within the body between a connected position and a disconnected position; when the at least one shuttle is in the connected position, the at least one fiber optic input cable and the at least one fiber optic output cable are optically connected, and when the at least one shuttle is in the disconnected position, the at least one fiber optic input cable and the at least one fiber optic output cable are not optically connected. Fiber optic connectors.

2. The fiber optic connector of claim 1 , wherein the at least one shuttle includes one of the input coupling and the output coupling.

3. 2. The optical fiber connector of claim 1, wherein at least one of the at least one input coupling and the at least one shuttle is connected to at least one selector, the at least one selector configured to move between an on position and an off position, the at least one selector configured to move the at least one shuttle to the connected position when the at least one selector is in the on position, and the at least one selector configured to move the at least one shuttle to the disconnected position when the at least one selector is in the off position.

4. 4. The fiber optic connector of claim 3, wherein the at least one selector comprises at least one of a rack and pinion selector including at least a portion of the at least one shuttle, a rotatable lever connected to the at least one shuttle, a slider selector, and a push button selector.

5. 4. The optical fiber connector of claim 3, wherein the at least one selector includes a locking mechanism configured to prevent the at least one selector from moving from either the on position or the off position when the locking mechanism is enabled.

6. 2. The optical fiber connector of claim 1, further comprising at least one input coupling shutter extending through at least a portion of the at least one input coupling and at least one output coupling shutter extending through at least a portion of the at least one output coupling, each of the at least one input coupling shutter and the at least one output coupling shutter comprising at least one of a dust shutter and a light protection shutter, the dust shutter configured to prevent ingress of dust into the body, and the light protection shutter configured to prevent transmission of light through at least one of the at least one input coupling and the at least one output coupling.

7. 10. The fiber optic connector of claim 1, further comprising at least one shuttle actuator connected to the at least one shuttle, the at least one shuttle actuator configured to move the at least one shuttle between the connected and disconnected positions using at least one of electrical energy, mechanical energy, and potential energy.

8. 10. The fiber optic connector of claim 1, further comprising at least one optical detector connected to said fiber optic connector, said at least one optical detector configured to determine connectivity between said at least one optical fiber input cable and said at least one optical fiber output cable.

9. 2. The fiber optic connector of claim 1, further comprising at least one fiber optic coupler extending between said at least one shuttle and one of said at least one input coupling and said at least one output coupling.

10. The fiber optic connector of claim 1 further comprising a plurality of connected bodies.

11. 10. The fiber optic connector of claim 1, wherein the body is at least one of a cylindrical, rectangular, spherical, and tapered shape.

12. 2. The fiber optic connector of claim 1, wherein at least one of the at least one input coupling and the at least one output coupling includes a sealing mechanism configured to interface with the at least one optical fiber input cable and the at least one optical fiber output cable, respectively, to prevent ingress of fluids into an internal cavity of the body of the fiber optic connector.

13. The fiber optic connector of claim 1 , wherein the body includes a mounting mechanism configured to interface with a distribution bank mount.

14. The fiber optic connector of claim 1 , wherein the body includes an upper cassette housing and a lower cassette housing.

15. 10. The fiber optic connector of claim 1, wherein each of the at least one input coupling and the at least one output coupling comprises at least one of a small form-factor connector and a multi-fiber connector.

16. 4. The fiber optic connector of claim 3, wherein the at least one selector is a lever, the lever including a rotating rod, a biasing member, and a lever cap.

17. 1. An optical fiber network distribution system, comprising: A distribution bank; at least one fiber optic input cable; at least one fiber optic output cable; at least one fiber optic connector positioned within the distribution bank; The at least one fiber optic connector comprises: The main body, at least one input coupling configured to optically communicate with the at least one fiber optic input cable; at least one output coupling configured to be in optical communication with at least one fiber optic output cable; at least one shuttle movable within the body between a connected position and a disconnected position; when the at least one shuttle is in the connected position, the at least one fiber optic input cable and the at least one fiber optic output cable are optically connected, and when the at least one shuttle is in the disconnected position, the at least one fiber optic input cable and the at least one fiber optic output cable are not optically connected. Fiber optic network distribution system.

18. 20. The optical fiber network distribution system of claim 17, wherein said at least one shuttle comprises one of said input coupling and said output coupling.

19. 18. The optical fiber network distribution system of claim 17, wherein at least one of the at least one input coupling and the at least one shuttle is connected to at least one selector, the at least one selector configured to move between an on position and an off position, the at least one selector configured to move the at least one shuttle to the connected position when the at least one selector is in the on position, and the at least one selector configured to move the at least one shuttle to the disconnected position when the at least one selector is in the off position.

20. 20. The optical fiber network distribution system of claim 19, wherein the at least one selector comprises at least one of a rack and pinion selector including at least a portion of the at least one shuttle, a rotary lever arm connected to the at least one shuttle, a slider selector, and a push button selector.

21. 20. The optical fiber network distribution system of claim 19, wherein the at least one selector includes a locking mechanism configured to prevent the at least one selector from moving from either the on position or the off position when the locking mechanism is enabled.

22. 18. The optical fiber network distribution system of claim 17, further comprising at least one input coupling shutter extending through at least a portion of the at least one input coupling and at least one output coupling shutter extending through at least a portion of the at least one output coupling, each of the at least one input coupling shutter and the at least one output coupling shutter comprising at least one of a dust shutter and a light protection shutter, the dust shutter configured to prevent ingress of dust into the body, and the light protection shutter configured to prevent transmission of light through at least one of the at least one input coupling and the at least one output coupling.

23. 20. The optical fiber network distribution system of claim 17, further comprising at least one shuttle actuator connected to said at least one shuttle, said at least one shuttle actuator configured to move said at least one shuttle between said connected position and said disconnected position using at least one of electrical energy, mechanical energy, and potential energy.

24. 20. The optical fiber network distribution system of claim 17, further comprising at least one optical detector connected to said optical fiber connector, said at least one optical detector configured to determine connectivity between said at least one optical fiber input cable and said at least one optical fiber output cable.

25. 20. The optical fiber network distribution system of claim 17, further comprising at least one optical fiber coupler extending between said at least one shuttle and one of said at least one input coupling and said at least one output coupling.

26. 20. The fiber optic network distribution system of claim 17, further comprising a plurality of connected bodies.

27. 20. The optical fiber network distribution system of claim 17, wherein the body is at least one of a cylindrical, rectangular, spherical, and tapered shape.

28. 20. The optical fiber network distribution system of claim 17, wherein at least one of the at least one input coupling and the at least one output coupling includes a sealing mechanism configured to interface with the at least one optical fiber input cable and the at least one optical fiber output cable, respectively, to prevent ingress of fluids into an internal cavity of the body of the optical fiber connector.

29. 20. The optical fiber network distribution system of claim 17, wherein the body includes a mounting mechanism configured to interface with a distribution bank mount.

30. 1. A method for connecting fiber optic cables in a network distribution system, the method comprising: positioning a fiber optic connector within the distribution bank; connecting a fiber optic input cable to an input coupling of said fiber optic connector; connecting a fiber optic output cable to an output coupling of said fiber optic connector; moving a shuttle within the body of the fiber optic connector from a disconnected position to a connected position; when the shuttle is in the connected position, the fiber optic input cable and the fiber optic output cable are optically connected, and when the shuttle is in the disconnected position, the fiber optic input cable and the fiber optic output cable are not optically connected. method.

31. 1. A method for providing a data service in an optical network distribution system, the method comprising: providing a fiber optic distribution bank having a plurality of switches for connecting and disconnecting fiber optic cables from a central fiber optic input cable to a plurality of fiber optic output cables; and closing a switch to connect one or more of the fiber optic output cables to the fiber optic input cables; the step of closing the switch includes moving a shuttle within a body of the fiber optic connector from a disconnected position to a connected position, wherein the fiber optic input cable and the fiber optic output cable are optically connected when the shuttle is in the connected position, and wherein the fiber optic input cable and the fiber optic output cable are not optically connected when the shuttle is in the disconnected position. method.

Images