Fiber optic connectors and fiber optic connection systems

Abstract

To generally related to an optical fiber connector, and more concretely relate to a system for manufacturing the optical fiber connector, and the optical fiber connector manufactured from such a system, and relate to a golf club having features of an adjustable and exchangeable component.SOLUTION: Obtained is a system for manufacturing or assembling an optical fiber connector for enabling a previously terminated optical fiber cable to be compatible with an optional number of optical fiber connectors or optical fiber adapters of different styles or types. A connector core of the system can be used as a standalone connector having a small shape factor adapter.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] (Cross - reference to Related Applications) This application was filed as a PCT international patent application on August 24, 2020, claiming the benefit of U.S. Patent Application No. 62 / 891,842, filed on August 26, 2019, and claiming the benefit of U.S. Patent Application No. 63 / 003,988, filed on April 2, 2020, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to optical fiber connectors. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a system for fabricating an optical fiber connector and an optical fiber connector fabricated from such a system.

Background Art

[0003] Optical fiber communication systems are becoming somewhat widespread because service providers want to provide customers with high - bandwidth communication capabilities (e.g., data and voice). Optical fiber communication systems use a network of optical fiber cables to transmit large amounts of data and voice signals over relatively long distances. Optical fiber connectors are an important part of most optical fiber communication systems. Optical fiber connectors allow two optical fibers to be optically connected quickly without the need for a splice connection. Optical fiber connectors can be used to optically interconnect two lengths of optical fiber. Optical fiber connectors can also be used to interconnect lengths of optical fiber to passive and active devices.

[0004] A typical fiber optic connector includes a ferrule assembly supported at the distal end of the connector housing. A spring is used to bias the ferrule assembly distally to the connector housing. The ferrule functions to support the end portion of at least one fiber optic cable (in the case of a multi-fiber ferrule, the ends of multiple fibers are supported). The ferrule has a distal end face on which the polished end of the fiber optic cable is located. When two fiber optic connectors are interconnected, the distal end faces of the ferrules touch each other, and the ferrules are pressed proximal to their respective connector housings due to the biasing of their respective springs. With the fiber optic connectors connected, their respective fiber optic cables are coaxially aligned so that the end faces of the fiber optic cables directly face each other. In this way, optical signals can be transmitted from fiber optic cable to fiber optic cable through the aligned end faces of the fiber optic cables. For many fiber optic connector styles, alignment between two fiber optic connectors is provided through the use of an intermediate fiber optic adapter.

[0005] High-durability (i.e., hardened) fiber optic connection systems include fiber optic connectors and fiber optic adapters suitable for use in external environments. These types of systems typically include robust fasteners that are environmentally sealed and suitable for withstanding relatively large pull-in and lateral loads. Examples of high-durability fiber optic connection systems are disclosed in Patent Documents 1, 2, and 3.

[0006] It will be understood that several different types of highly durable fiber optic connectors are available for use in external environments. Patent Document 4 discloses a system for manufacturing fiber optic connectors in which several different highly durable outer assemblies having different shape factors or configurations can be selectively mounted on a pre-terminated cable, so that the pre-terminated cable can be customized to be compatible with a particular style or type of fiber optic connector or fiber optic adapter. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] U.S. Patent No. 7,467,896 [Patent Document 2] U.S. Patent No. 7,744,288 [Patent Document 3] U.S. Patent No. 8,556,520 [Patent Document 4] International Publication No. 2015 / 028433 [Overview of the Initiative]

[0008] Certain aspects of this disclosure relate to a system for manufacturing or assembling fiber optic connectors that enable pre-terminated fiber optic cables to be compatible with any number of different styles or types of fiber optic connectors or fiber optic adapters. In certain examples, the system allows for the selection of different shrouds, outer housings, outer fasteners, etc., for mounting the ends of the fiber optic cable onto a connector core that has been pre-terminated. In certain examples, different shrouds or outer housings may include different shape factors, different key coupling arrangements, different shapes, etc. Furthermore, the shrouds may be used in combination with different fastening elements to fasten the final assembled connector to another fiber optic connector or fiber optic adapter. Exemplary fastening elements may include swivel-fastening fasteners (e.g., threaded fasteners and bayonet-style fasteners), sliding fasteners, and snap-fit ​​fasteners. In certain examples, different sealing arrangements may be provided on different shrouds or housings. In certain examples, the outer shrouds or housings or fasteners may be part of an outer connector assembly that is preferably hardened / durable. Certain aspects of the present disclosure relate to providing a connector core that can also be used as a small shape factor fiber optic connector that can be used directly (e.g., without any intermediate shroud on the core) in combination with a corresponding small shape factor high-durability fiber optic adapter having a shape factor that complements the shape factor of the connector core. In certain examples, the connector core includes a seal that is adapted to seal with the shroud of a high-durability (i.e., hardened) connector assembly when the core is inserted into the shroud, and adapted to seal with the small shape factor adapter when the connector core is mated with the small shape factor adapter. In certain examples, the connector core includes a pivot fastener that is adapted to connect with the outside of the shroud of a high-durability connector assembly when the core is used with a high-durability connector assembly, and adapted to connect with the outside of the small shape factor adapter when the connector core is used directly with the small shape factor adapter.

[0009] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a highly durable optical fiber adapter having a small shape factor. In one example, the highly durable optical fiber adapter has an elongated body having an integral, one-piece molded structure.

[0010] Further aspects of the present disclosure relate to an optical fiber adapter including a helical guide feature for rotatably guiding an optical fiber connector to a keyed rotational orientation. In one example, the guide feature can guide the optical fiber connector rotatably along a range of rotation as the optical fiber connector is inserted into the optical fiber adapter. In a particular example, the range of rotation may include at least 120 degrees, or at least 140 degrees, or at least 160 degrees, or at least 180 degrees.

[0011] Further aspects of this disclosure relate to a highly durable, small shape factor optical fiber adapter and a small shape factor connector core that can be used directly with it.

[0012] Various additional aspects of the present invention are described below. The aspects of the present invention may relate to individual features and combinations of features. It should be understood that both the general description above and the detailed description below are illustrative and descriptive only, and do not limit the broader concept of the invention on which the examples disclosed herein are based. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0013] [Figure 1] An optical fiber connector based on the principles of this disclosure will be illustrated as an example. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is an exploded view of the connector core of the system. [Figure 3] Figure 2 is a perspective view of the connector core. [Figure 4] Another perspective view of the connector core in Figure 2, a cross-sectional view taken along the long axis through the second optical fiber connector assembly in Figure 2. [Figure 5] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along the long axis through the connector core. [Figure 6]Exploded view of the small form factor fiber optic adapter of the system of FIG. 1. [Figure 7] Perspective view showing the high durability port of the small form factor fiber optic adapter of FIG. 6 covered by a dust cap. [Figure 8] Perspective view showing the non-high durability port of the small form factor fiber optic adapter of FIG. 6 with a non-high durability fiber optic connector fixedly installed inside. [Figure 9] Perspective view of the body of the small form factor fiber optic adapter of FIG. 6. [Figure 10] End view of the high durability port of the small form factor fiber optic adapter of FIG. 6. [Figure 11] Cross-sectional view taken along the cutting line 11-11 of FIG. 10. [Figure 12] Cross-sectional view taken along the cutting line 12-12 of FIG. 10. [Figure 13] Cross-sectional view of FIG. 11 having a non-high durability fiber optic connector installed in the non-high durability port of the small form factor fiber optic adapter. [Figure 14] Illustrates a portion of the small form factor fiber optic adapter of FIG. 6 where the internal spiral key coupling guide is shown in hidden lines. [Figure 15] Cross-sectional view showing the connector core and non-high durability fiber optic connectors optically connected to each other by the small form factor fiber optic adapter. [Figure 16] Shows the small form factor fiber optic adapter of FIG. 6 where the connector core is installed in the high durability port and the retaining collar is in the non-retaining position. [Figure 17] Shows the small form factor fiber optic adapter of FIG. 6 where the connector core is installed in the high durability port and the retaining collar is in the retaining position. [Figure 18] Perspective view of the rotational fixing fastener of the connector core of FIG. 10. [Figure 19] Another perspective view of the rotational fixing fastener of the connector core or FIG. 10. [Figure 20] It is a rotation fixing fastener of the connector core or a further perspective view of FIG. 10. [Figure 21] It is a rotation fixing fastener of the connector core or another perspective view of FIG. 10. [Figure 22] It is a plan view showing an exemplary internal connection arrangement of the rotation fixing fastener. [Figure 23] It is a plan view showing an exemplary external connection arrangement adapted to interlock with the internal connection interface of FIG. 22. [Figure 24-26] A series of steps for interlocking the internal and external connection arrangements of FIGS. 22 and 23 are illustrated.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0014] Figure 1 illustrates an exemplary optical fiber connector assembly system 20 according to the principles of the present disclosure. The optical fiber connector assembly system 20 enables a pre-terminated optical fiber cable 22 to be easily configured in one of any number of different connector configurations. Different connector configurations may include connector configurations with different connector housings / shrouds, different keying arrangements for keying with different styles or types of optical fiber adapters or optical fiber connectors, different fasteners compatible with different optical fiber adapters and optical fiber connectors, and so on. In a particular example, different connector arrangements may include multiple different hardened (i.e., highly durable) connector arrangements adapted to be compatible with different styles or types of hardened optical fiber connectors or hardened optical fiber adapters. It will be understood that the pre-terminated cable 22 can be mated with one of the selected different external connector arrangements, either in the field or in the factory, to make the pre-terminated optical fiber cable compatible with a particular type of connector system (for example, a pre-terminated optical fiber cable with a selected connector assembly mounted on top is compatible with and matable with a particular optical fiber adapter style and / or a particular optical fiber connector style). In certain cases, pre-terminated cables may include connector cores that are directly compatible with fiber optic adapters.

[0015] Referring further to Figure 1, the optical fiber connector assembly system 20 includes a connector core 23 for terminating one end of the optical fiber cable 22. A swivel fixing fastener 26 is rotatably mounted on the connector core 23, and a strain release boot 28 is mounted on the swivel fixing fastener 26. The swivel fixing fastener 26 is mounted on the connector core 23 adjacent to the rear end of the connector core (i.e., adjacent to the end to which the cable is fixed). The seal 30 is mounted on the connector core 23 inside the swivel fixing fastener 26 (see Figure 5). The optical fiber connector assembly system 20 also includes several different components, arrangements, assemblies, etc., which can be selected, individually mounted on the connector core 23, and fixed to the connector core 23 by the swivel fixing fastener 26. The seal 30 may be configured to seal the components, arrangements, or assemblies when the components, arrangements, or assemblies are connected to the connector core 23. Various components, arrangements, and assemblies are illustrated as including a dust cap 32 (see Figure 2), a first hardened connector shroud and fastener arrangement 34, a second hardened connector shroud and fastener arrangement 36, and a small shape factor optical fiber adapter 38 having at least one highly durable port for directly receiving the connector core 23.

[0016] It will be understood that the dust cap 32 may be fixed onto the connector core 23 to protect the connector core 23 and the terminated optical fiber(s) supported by it before the connector core is connected to any of its mating components, such as the first arrangement 34, the second arrangement 36, or the optical fiber adapter 38 of the small shape factor. The dust cap 32 must be removed from the connector core 23 before the connector core is connected to any of its mating components.

[0017] The first optical fiber connector assembly resulting when the first hardened connector shroud and fastener arrangement 34 is mounted on the connector core 23 is compatible with and matable to the FastConnect® optical fiber adapter 41 (schematically shown in Figure 1) sold by Huawei Technologies Company Ltd. (see U.S. Patent No. 9,557,493, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety). The second optical fiber connector assembly resulting when the second hardened connector shroud and fastener arrangement 36 is mounted on the connector core 23 is configured to be compatible with the OptiTap® optical fiber adapter 43 (schematically shown in Figure 1) by Corning Cable Systems LLC (see, for example, U.S. Patent No. 7,090,407, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety). The optical fiber adapter 38 with a small shape factor includes a highly durable port 39 adapted to directly receive the connector core 23 without requiring the use of an intermediate shroud for key coupling, alignment, or sealing.

[0018] A fiber optic cable is pre-terminated by attaching a structure to the end of the cable where the fiber(s) for optical connection are located via a de-mating optical connection. For example, a fiber optic cable may be pre-terminated by attaching a ferrule to the end of the fiber(s) of the cable in preparation for presenting the fiber as part of a ferrule-type optical connector. In other examples, a housing or other structure may be attached to the fiber optic cable and may function to align or position the fiber without the use of a ferrule, as in the case of a ferrule-less fiber optic connector. In the illustrated example, the fiber optic cable 22 is pre-terminated by attaching the connector core 23 to the end of the fiber optic cable 22 before assembling one of the hardened arrangements 34, 36 onto the connector core 23.

[0019] Referring to Figure 3, the connector core 23 includes an elongated connector core housing 24 along a length extending along the longitudinal axis 50. The connector core housing 22 includes a front plug end 52 positioned opposite the rear cable attachment end 54. The front plug end 52 may optionally have a shape factor compatible with an SC type optical fiber adapter, but may also have other shape factors, such as an LC connector shape factor compatible with an LC optical fiber adapter. The optical fiber cable 22 is attached to or fixed to the connector core 23 at the rear cable attachment end 54 of the connector core housing 24. For example, a reinforcing member (e.g., a thread-type reinforcing member such as aramid yarn or glass fiber) may be attached to the connector core 23 at the rear cable attachment end 54 by adhesive (e.g., epoxy), crimping, or other means. The optical fiber cable 22 includes an outer jacket 56. The outer jacket 56 of the optical fiber cable 22 may be fixed to the cable attachment end 54 of the connector core housing 24 by a sleeve 57, such as a shape memory sleeve (e.g., a heat shrink sleeve). In certain examples, the heat-shrinkable sleeve may include an internal layer of adhesive for bonding the heat-shrinkable sleeve to the outer jacket 56 and the connector core housing 24. The swivel fastener 26 is mounted on the connector core housing 24 and can be rotated (e.g., rotatable) relative to the connector core housing 24 about a longitudinal axis 50. The swivel fastener 26 is axially captured between an outer retainer 47 (e.g., a shoulder) of the housing 24 and the front end of the sleeve 57 so that the fastener 26 is held on the housing 24. The boot can optionally be rotated integrally with the fastener 26 about the axis 50.

[0020] The optical fiber structure 58 includes a first section 60 routed longitudinally through the outer jacket 56 of the optical fiber cable and a second section 62 routed through the connector core body 24. The second section 62 of the optical fiber structure 58 defines the fiber tip 64 at the front plug end 52 of the connector core body 24. The front portion of the second section 62 of the optical fiber structure 58 is fixed and supported within a ferrule 66. The ferrule 66 is spring-biased forward relative to the connector core body 24 by a spring 68. The inner body 67 includes a front end 69 that is fitted within the connector core body 24 and functions as a spring retainer, and a rear end 71 which may include a structure for use when fixing the reinforcing member of the optical fiber cable 22 to the connector core 23.

[0021] When the ferrule 66 is mounted directly onto the optical fiber of the optical fiber cable 22, the optical fiber structure 58 is a continuous length of optical fiber in which the first and second sections 60, 62 are all part of a single continuous optical fiber. In the splice-on version of the connector arrangement, the first section 60 may be formed by a segment of optical fiber that is optically spliced ​​(e.g., fusion spliced) to the optical fiber of the optical fiber cable 22 that forms the second section 62. In certain examples, the optical splice connection may be located inside the connector core body 24.

[0022] The connector core housing 24 includes an external stopper 47 (e.g., a projection, wall, rib, shoulder, etc.) positioned adjacent to the cable mounting end 54 of the connector core housing 24. The stopper 47 may include a forward-facing positive stop surface 72 and a rearward-facing positive stop surface 74. Surface 74 provides axial retention of the fastener 26, while surface 72 provides a positive stop adapted to engage with a corresponding stop surface 75 of the small shape factor optical fiber adapter 38 to stop the insertion of the connector core 23 into the small shape factor adapter 38 at a predetermined fully inserted location.

[0023] The rotating fastener 26 includes an external connecting arrangement that mates to a component adapted to connect to the connector core 23 and an internal connecting arrangement 27 adapted to connect (see Figures 18 to 21). In certain examples, the internal and external connecting arrangements may include threaded configurations, bayonet-style configurations, and other interlocking configurations. Interlocking configurations may include configurations that interlock by a snap-fit ​​action and configurations having fasteners that rotate from a non-overlapping position to an overlapping position, where interference between the fasteners provides axial retention of the rotating fastener 26.

[0024] The internal connection arrangements 27 of the fastener 26 (see Figures 18 to 21) are adapted to connect with mating external connection arrangements 80 to 83, corresponding to the first hardened connector shroud and fastener arrangement 34, the second hardened connector shroud and fastener arrangement 36, the small shape factor adapter 38, and the dust cap 32, respectively. The external connection arrangements 80 to 82 are shown in Figure 1, and the external connection arrangement 83 is shown in Figure 2. The connection interface formed between the internal and external connection arrangements preferably provides two different interlocking functions.

[0025] The first interlocking function is adapted to inhibit rotation between the swivel fastener 26 and the corresponding mated external coupling arrangement. The first interlocking function may be provided by a snap-fit ​​arrangement. The snap-fit ​​arrangement may provide a permanent interlock or a multi-use interlock. In the case of a permanent interlock, the snap-fit ​​connection between the internal and external coupling arrangements requires to be broken in order to rotate the swivel fastener 26 from an interlocked rotational position (e.g., a coupled rotational position) to an uninterlocked position (e.g., an uncoupled rotational position). In contrast, if the snap-fit ​​arrangement is adapted for multi-use, the snap-fit ​​arrangement may act as a stopper, facilitating the swivel fastener 26 to remain in the interlocked rotational position, but allowing the snap-fit ​​arrangement to be disengaged without breaking the snap-fit ​​arrangement, provided that sufficient torque allows the swivel fastener 26 to move from the interlocked position to the uninterlocked position.

[0026] A second interlocking function provided when the internal coupling arrangement 27 is mated with one of the corresponding external coupling arrangements 80-83 relates to providing axial fixation of the fastener 26. When the internal and external coupling arrangements are interlocked, the coupling arrangements are adapted to prevent the fastener 26 from being axially disengaged from the corresponding component to which it is coupled. The portion of the coupling arrangement that provides the axial holding function may include a plurality of fasteners that interlock with each other (e.g., overlap) when the fastener 26 is rotated to a coupled rotational position, so as interference between the interlocked fasteners prevents the fastener 26 from being axially disengaged from the corresponding component to which it is coupled.

[0027] Referring to Figures 18 to 22, the internal connection arrangement 27 includes a plurality of inclined snap-fit ​​features 86 uniformly spaced around the central axis 88 of the fastener 26. Each of the snap-fit ​​features 86 includes an inclined surface 90 and a stop surface 92. The internal connection arrangement 27 also includes an axial holding arrangement 94 which includes a plurality of axial stoppers 96 uniformly spaced around the central axis 88. For ease of explanation, Figure 22 shows that the fastener 26 is cut along its length and laid flat so that the entire circumference C inside the fastener 26 is visible in the plan view. The axial stoppers 96 include a stop surface 98.

[0028] Figure 23 illustrates an exemplary external coupling arrangement 100 that may represent coupling arrangements 80-83. In Figure 23, the coupling arrangement is cut and laid flat so that the entire outer perimeter of coupling arrangement 100 is shown in plan view. The external coupling arrangement 100 includes snap-fit ​​features 102 spaced apart from each other along the outer perimeter C. The snap-fit ​​features 102 may include catch elements or fasteners adapted to function in conjunction with the snap-fit ​​features 86 of the internal coupling arrangement. In certain examples, the snap-fit ​​features 102 may be a return feature such as a ridge. In other examples, the snap-fit ​​features 102 may include a latch such as a beam. The beam may be configured to have a separation function that allows the rotational fixing fastener 26 to move from a coupled rotational position to an uncoupled rotational position. In another example, the snap-fit ​​feature 102 provides resistance to the rotational fastener 26 rotating from a connected rotational position to an unconnected rotational position, but simply deforms without breaking, allowing the rotational fastener 26 to move from the connected rotational position to the unconnected rotational position. The external connection arrangement 100 also includes an axial holding arrangement 104 adapted to hold the rotational fastener 26 axially when the rotational fastener 26 is in the connected rotational position. The axial holding arrangement 104 may include a plurality of axial retainers 106 (e.g., triangular projections) uniformly spaced along the outer circumference C of the external connection arrangement 100.

[0029] Figures 24 to 26 illustrate a series of steps for connecting the internal and external connection configurations 26 and 100 together. As shown in Figure 24, the internal connection configuration 27 is aligned with the external connection configuration 100. Figure 25 shows the internal and external connection configurations 27 and 100 in a rotational position where they are inserted together axially but are not connected. Figure 26 shows the internal and external connection configurations 27 and 100 rotated from the unconnected rotational position to the connected rotational position. In the connected rotational position of Figure 26, the axial retaining fastener 106 of the external connection configuration 100 interlocks with the stop surface 98 of the axial fastener 96 of the internal connection configuration so that interference between the fasteners 96, 106 prevents the rotational fixing fastener 26 from being axially disengaged from the external connection configuration 100 in the removal direction 107, which is opposite to the insertion direction 108. In addition, when the rotatable fastener 26 is rotated from an unconnected rotational position to a connected rotational position, the snap-fit ​​feature 86 retains the snap-fit ​​feature 102 of the external connection arrangement 100 such that the opposing surfaces between the stop surface 103 of the snap-fit ​​feature 102 and the stop surface 92 of the snap-fit ​​feature 86 prevent or resist the movement of the rotatable fastener 26 from the connected rotational position to the unconnected rotational position. Further disclosures of the connection arrangement can be found in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 849,760, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0030] Referring to Figure 1, the first hardened connector shroud and fastener arrangement 34 includes a shroud 182 adapted to mount on the core 23 and a fastener 140 that rotatably mounts on the shroud 182. The seal 30 seals the space between the outside of the core 23 and the inside of the shroud 182 when the core 23 is inserted into the shroud 182. The fastener 140 is illustrated as an outer housing having a bayonet-type interface (e.g., a bayonet pin) adapted to engage with a bayonet slot of the corresponding optical fiber adapter 41 when the optical fiber connector assembly (i.e., the assembly including the core 23 and arrangement 34) is coupled to the optical fiber adapter 41. The shroud 182 includes a key coupling structure in the form of a slot 143 that mates with a corresponding projection in the optical fiber adapter 41 when the optical fiber connector assembly 40 is mated with the optical fiber adapter. In this way, the key structure ensures that the optical fiber connector assembly is inserted into the optical fiber adapter in the desired rotational orientation. The rotating fastening device 26 is fitted to fit over the rear end of the shroud 182 and interlocks with the coupling arrangement 80 to connect the connector core 23 to the shroud 182 such that the fastening device 26 holds the core 26 axially within the shroud 182.

[0031] Continuing to refer to Figure 1, the second cured connector shroud and fastener arrangement 36 includes a shroud 184 and an outer fastener member 145, shown as a connecting nut with male threads. The seal 30 seals to the inside of the shroud 184 when the core 26 is fixed to the shroud 184. The shroud 184 includes a pair of front paddles 147 adapted to provide a key coupling function for rotating and aligning the optical fiber connector assembly (i.e., the assembly including the core installed in arrangement 36) within the corresponding optical fiber adapter 43. The male threads of the outer fastener member 145 are adapted to engage with the corresponding female threads of the optical fiber adapter 43 to fix the optical fiber connector assembly within the optical fiber adapter 43. The rotational fixing fastener 26 is adapted to sit on the rear end of the shroud 184 and interlocks with the connecting arrangement 81 to connect the connector core 23 to the shroud 184 so that the fastener 26 holds the core 26 axially within the shroud 184.

[0032] Referring to Figures 3 and 4, the front plug end 52 of the connector core 23 has a shape factor compatible with the optical fiber adapter 41, the optical fiber adapter 43, and the small shape factor adapter 38. While the front plug end 52 is compatible with the optical fiber adapters 41 and 43, the first and second hardened connector shrouds and fastener arrangements 34 and 36 are required to fix and seal the connector core 23 within the optical fiber adapters 41 and 43, respectively. In contrast, the connector core 23 can be directly installed within the small shape factor adapter 38 without any intermediate shrouds and without requiring any fasteners other than the rotating fixing fastener 26. Specifically, when the connector core 23 is fixed within the small shape factor adapter 38, the seal 30 forms a seal with the small shape factor adapter 38, and the rotating fixing fastener 26 connects directly to the coupling arrangement 82 of the small shape factor optical fiber adapter 38.

[0033] Referring to Figures 3 and 4, the front plug end 52 includes a number of flat sections 200a to 200d positioned around the outside of the core housing 24. Flat sections 200a and 200c are positioned opposite each other, while flat sections 200b and 200d are also positioned opposite each other. Flat sections 200a and 200c extend rearward from the front end of the core housing 24 over a substantial length of the core housing 24. In one example, flat sections 200a and 200c extend along at least 20% of the total length of the core housing 24. Flat section 200a extends from the front end of the core housing 24 to an elongated key 202. The elongated key 202 is illustrated as a rail projecting outward from the outside of the body of the core housing 24. In one example, the key 202 has a length that extends rearward from flat section 200a adjacent to the seal 30. In one example, the elongated key extends along at least 25% of the total length of the core housing 24.

[0034] The seal 30 is preferably positioned behind the longitudinal midpoint of the core housing 24. Preferably, the seal 30 is positioned closer to the rear end of the core housing 24, and then closer to the front end of the core housing 24. In a preferred example, the seal 30 is positioned behind at least two-thirds of the total length of the core housing 24. As shown in Figure 5, the seal 30 is positioned inside the rotating fastener 26.

[0035] The flat sections 200b and 200d are substantially shorter in length than the flat sections 200a and 200c. As shown in Figure 3, the flat sections 200b and 200d are positioned on opposite sides of each other and define the sides that extend between the flat sections 200a and 200c.

[0036] The coupling arrangements 80, 81 provided on the shrouds 182, 184 and fastener arrangements 34, 36 of the first and second hardened connector shrouds may have configurations such as the external coupling arrangement 100 shown in Figure 23. For example, as shown in Figure 1, the external coupling arrangements 80, 81 each include an axial holding arrangement 104, which includes a plurality of axial holding fasteners 106 (e.g., triangular fasteners) positioned circumferentially around the outside of the shrouds 182, 184 adjacent to the rear ends of the shrouds 182, 184. The external coupling arrangements 80, 81 also include a snap-fit ​​feature 102a. In the illustrated example, the snap-fit ​​feature 102a includes a flexible beam with opposing ends integrated with the shrouds 182, 184, and an open space beneath the beam. In other examples, a cantilever-style beam may be used. The beam may be oriented transversely to the circumferential direction (as shown) or parallel to the circumferential direction.

[0037] When the rotating fastener 26 is axially inserted onto the external coupling arrangements 80, 81 and then rotated from the uncoupled rotating portion to the coupled rotating position, the inclined surface 90 of the snap-fit ​​feature 86 of the rotating fastener 26 overcomes the snap-fit ​​feature 102a, deflecting the feature 102a radially inward, allowing the snap-fit ​​feature 86 to move over the snap-fit ​​feature 102a. When the rotating fastener 26 reaches the coupled rotating position, the snap-fit ​​feature 86 moves simultaneously over the snap-fit ​​feature 102a so that the snap-fit ​​feature 102a elastically returns to their un-defended position. In the undefended position, the opposition between the stop surface 92 of the snap-fit ​​feature 86 and the snap-fit ​​feature 102a prevents the rotating fastener 26 from rotating back from the coupled rotating position to the uncoupled rotating position. In the connected rotational position, the stopper 96 of the rotational fixing fastener 26 faces the axial stopper 106 to prevent the fastener 26 from being disengaged axially. When sufficient torque is applied to the rotational fixing fastener 26, the snap-fit ​​feature 102a will break, thereby allowing the rotational fixing fastener 26 to rotate from the connected rotational position back to the unconnected rotational position. The external coupling arrangement 81 on the shroud 184 of the second hardened connector shroud and the fastener arrangement 36 has the same configuration as the external coupling arrangement 80. Thus, the core 23 can be attached in the same manner to the first and second hardened connector shrouds and fastener arrangements 34, 36. In other examples, the snap-fit ​​feature 102a may be configured for multiple uses.

[0038] Figures 6 to 14 illustrate the small shape factor adapter 38. The small shape factor adapter 38 is adapted to be fitted into a mounting opening 210. In certain examples, the mounting opening 210 may be defined within a panel, through the wall of an enclosure, or within another structure. Preferably, the mounting opening 210 is of a relatively small size. In one example, the mounting opening 210 has an area of ​​150 square millimeters or less. It will be understood that the small shape factor adapter 38 has a relatively long length L when considering the relatively small area of ​​the mounting opening 210. In certain examples, the ratio of the area in millimeters of the mounting opening 210 to the length L in millimeters of the small shape factor adapter 38 is 3 or less.

[0039] Referring to Figure 6, the small shape factor 38 includes a main adapter body 212 having a first end 214 and a second end 216. The length L of the small shape factor adapter 38 extends between the first and second ends 214, 216. The first end 214 defines a durable connector port 218 and may be called the durable end. The second end 216 defines a non-durable connector port 220 and may be called the non-durable end. In certain examples, the adapter body 212 may have a one-piece molded structure. The durable connector port 218 may be configured to receive a connector core 23 and preferably has a shape factor that matches the shape factor of the connector core 23 or is otherwise interchangeable. The non-durable connector port 220 is adapted to receive a non-durable optical fiber connector, such as an SC connector 222.

[0040] The main adapter body 212 includes an internal sleeve holder 224. In certain examples, the internal sleeve holder 224 may accommodate a ferrule alignment sleeve, such as a split sleeve 225, made from an elastic material (e.g., phosphor bronze, zirconia ceramic, etc.). In certain examples, the internal sleeve holder 224 may include a number of fingers that can be curved and opened to allow the split sleeve to be inserted into and held inside the internal sleeve holder 224.

[0041] When a non-durable fiber optic connector 222 is fixed within a non-durable connector port 220, and a connector core 223 is fixed within a durable connector port 218, the connector core 23 and the non-durable fiber optic connector 222 are optically connected together. For example, the ferrule 228 of the non-durable fiber optic connector 222 may be housed within one end of a ferrule alignment sleeve housed within a sleeve holder 224, and the ferrule 66 of the connector core 23 may be received within the opposite end of a ferrule alignment sleeve housed within a sleeve holder 224, such that the fiber alignment sleeve coaxially aligns the two ferrules 228, 66 to provide an optical connection between the optical fibers held by each of the ferrules 228, 66.

[0042] The second end 216 of the main adapter body 212 includes an integrated latch 230 for holding a non-durable fiber optic connector 222 within a non-durable connector port 220. The main adapter body 212 also includes an outer flange 232 and a male thread 234. When the main adapter body 212 is secured within a mounting opening 210 defined by a structure such as a panel 236, the flange 234 engages with a first side 236a of the panel 236, while the nut 238 is screwed onto the male thread 232 and engages with a second side 236b of the panel. In this way, the panel 236 is compressed between the outer flange 232 and the nut 238 to secure the main adapter body 212 to the panel 236.

[0043] The seal 240 may be pressed between the flange 232 and the first side 236a of the panel 236. In one example, the seal 240 may be integrated with a lanyard 242 used to connect a dust cap 244 to the main adapter body 212. The dust cap 244 is fitted to be fixed onto the first end 214 of the main adapter body 212 to surround the high-durability connector port 218 before inserting the connector core 23 into it. It will be understood that the dust cap 244 may be detached from the first end 214 of the main adapter body 212 to allow insertion of the connector core 23 into the high-durability connector port 218. It will also be understood that the dust cap 244 may include an internal coupling arrangement of the type shown in Figure 22, which is fitted to connect to an external coupling arrangement 82 provided adjacent to the first end 214 of the main adapter body 212.

[0044] Referring to Figures 11 to 14, the main adapter body 212 includes a keyway 250 for receiving an elongated key 202 of the connector core 23. The main adapter body 212 also includes an internal structure for guiding the key coupling rail in the rotational direction to the keyway 250. In a particular example, the structure for providing the rotational guide may include two helical shoulders 252a, 252b, which rotate in opposing helical directions about the central longitudinal axis 253 of the main adapter body 212, as the shoulders 252a, 252b extend along the axis 253 from the first end 214 to the second end 216 of the main adapter body 212. In a particular example, the helical guide shoulders 252a, 252b provide rotational guides for the connector core 23 as it is inserted into the durable connector port 220 along a range of rotation of at least 90 degrees, or at least 135 degrees, or at least 170 degrees, or about 180 degrees. As shown, the helical shoulders 250a, 250b begin adjacent to the durable connector port 220 at the bottom and rotate helically about 180 degrees in opposite directions until the shoulders intersect adjacent to the keyway 250 at the top of the durable connector port 218. Thus, the helical shoulders 252a, 252b are configured to guide the connector core 23 rotationally toward the keyway 250 as it is first inserted into the durable connector port 218, via contact with the key 202 to guide the key 202 toward the keyway 250 regardless of rotational orientation.

[0045] As shown above, the first end 214 of the main adapter body 212 includes an external coupling arrangement 82. In the illustrated example, the external coupling arrangement 82 includes an axial holding arrangement of the type illustrated by the external coupling arrangement 100. For example, a plurality of axial retainers 106 are provided around the outer circumference of the main adapter body 212. The external coupling arrangement 82 also includes a snap-fit ​​feature 102b adapted to engage with a snap-fit ​​feature 86 of the rotatable fastener 26 to hold the rotatable fastener 26 in a coupled rotational orientation. In the illustrated example, the snap-fit ​​feature 102b is a stopper (e.g., a ridge), and the snap-fit ​​feature 86 overcomes the stopper as the rotatable fastener 26 is rotated relative to the external coupling arrangement 82 from an uncoupled rotational position to a coupled rotational position. It will be understood that the snap-fit ​​feature 102b is a stopper having angled surfaces on both sides. Therefore, the configuration of the snap-fit ​​feature 102b allows the rotating fastener 26 to be rotated from a connected rotational position to an unconnected position when sufficient torque is applied to the force that the snap-fit ​​feature 86 of the rotating fastener 26 returns over the snap-fit ​​feature 102b. Preferably, the snap-fit ​​feature 102b does not break when the rotating fastener 26 is rotated back from a connected rotational position to an unconnected rotational position. Instead, the curvature of the rotating fastener 26 and / or the snap-fit ​​feature 102b allows the rotating fastener 26 to be moved back from a connected rotational position to an unconnected rotational position.

[0046] In a particular example, the small shape factor adapter 38 further includes a retaining collar 300 mounted on the outside of the main adapter body 212 adjacent to the first end 214. The retaining collar 300 is mounted non-rotatably to the main adapter body 212 so that the retaining collar 300 cannot be rotated about the central axis of the main adapter body 212. The retaining collar 300 is movable between an extended position (see Figure 17) and a retracted position (see Figure 16). A stopper 302 is provided to hold the retaining collar 300 in the extended and retracted positions. When the retaining collar 300 is moved to the extended position, while the rotatable fastener 26 is in a rotatable position connected to the external coupling arrangement 82, the retaining members 305 (e.g., fingers) inside the retaining collar 300 extend into the interior of the rotatable fastener 26 and face the stop surface 92 of the internal coupling arrangement of the rotatable fastener 26. In this way, the retaining collar 300 prevents the rotatable fastener 26 from rotating back from the connected rotational position to the unconnected rotational position. In contrast, when the retaining collar 300 is moved to the retracted position, the retaining member 305 disengages from the stop surface 92 when sufficient torque is applied to the rotatable fastener 26 to overcome the stopper 102b and move the rotatable fastener 26 back from the connected rotational position to the unconnected rotational position, thereby allowing the rotatable fastener 26 to rotate back from the connected rotational position to the unconnected rotational position.

[0047] In certain examples, the retaining collar 300 may be a spring biased toward the extended position. In such a case, the retaining collar 300 may automatically move from the retracted position to the extended position once the fastener 26 is rotated from an unconnected rotational state to a connected rotational state. To disconnect the fastener 26, the collar 300 may be manually slid from the extended position to the retracted position against the spring bias, allowing the fastener 26 to rotate from the connected rotational state to an unconnected rotational state. Insertion of the core assembly into the adapter 38 may cause the collar 300 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 spring bias. The following are some embodiments (configurations) of the present invention. [Aspect 1] A fiber optic connector system, A connector core including a front end defining a plug portion and a rear end defining a cable anchor fixing location, wherein the connector core includes a core seal, A first high-durability external assembly configured to be mounted on the connector core, the first high-durability external assembly includes a first shroud configured to be mounted on the connector core such that the core seal provides a seal between the connector core and the first shroud, the first shroud having a front end including a first keying arrangement for rotatably keying the first shroud to a first high-durability optical fiber adapter, the first high-durability external assembly also includes a first high-durability fastening element for securing the first high-durability external assembly to the first high-durability optical fiber adapter, and the first shroud having a first external coupling arrangement outside the first shroud adjacent to the rear end of the shroud, A second high-durability external assembly configured to be mounted on the connector core, the second high-durability external assembly includes a second shroud configured to be mounted on the connector core such that the core seal provides a seal between the connector core and the second shroud, the second shroud having a front end including a second key coupling arrangement for rotatably key coupling the second shroud to a second high-durability optical fiber adapter, the first key coupling arrangement having a key coupling configuration different from the second key coupling arrangement, the second high-durability external assembly also includes a second high-durability fastening element for securing the second high-durability external assembly to the second high-durability optical fiber adapter, the first high-durability fastening element having a fastening configuration different from the second high-durability fastening element, the second shroud having a second external coupling arrangement outside the second shroud adjacent to the rear end of the shroud, The first high-durability external assembly can be used in combination with the connector core to make the optical fiber connector system compatible with the first high-durability optical fiber adapter. The second high-durability external assembly can be used in combination with the connector core to make the optical fiber connector system compatible with the second high-durability optical fiber adapter. The connector core has a shape factor that complements the shape factor of the third high-durability optical fiber adapter, thereby the connector core is directly compatible with the third high-durability optical fiber adapter without using a high-durability external assembly, the core seal provides a seal between the third high-durability optical fiber adapter and the connector core when the connector core is inserted into the third high-durability optical fiber adapter, and the third high-durability optical fiber adapter includes a second high-durability external assembly with a third external coupling arrangement outside the third high-durability optical fiber adapter, A rotating fastening device supported by the connector core, wherein a) the connector core is connected to the first shroud by inserting the rotating fastening device onto the rear end of the first shroud, and the rotating fastening device is connected to the first external connection arrangement by rotating the rotating fastening device relative to the first shroud, and b) the connector core is connected to the second rear shroud by inserting the rotating fastening device onto the rear end of the second shroud, and the rotating fastening device an optical fiber connector system comprising: a) a) a rotating fastening device for connecting the rotating fastening device to the second external connection arrangement by rotating it relative to the second shroud; and c) a) a connector core to the third high-durability optical fiber adapter by inserting the rotating fastening device onto the outside of the third high-durability adapter, and a rotating engaging fastening device for connecting the rotating engaging fastening device to the third external connection arrangement by rotating the rotating engaging fastening device relative to the third high-durability adapter. [Aspect 2] The first key coupling arrangement includes a paddle, and the second key coupling arrangement includes an open end slot. manner The optical fiber connector system described in 1. [Aspect 3] The first high-durability fastening element includes a threaded connecting nut, and the second high-durability fastening element includes a bayonet-style fastening sleeve. manner The optical fiber connector system described in 1 or 2. [Aspect 4] The cable is anchored to the rear end of the connector core, the optical fiber of the cable is supported by a ferrule positioned on the plug portion of the connector core, and a shape memory heat shrink sleeve provides a seal between the cable and the connector core. manner The optical fiber connector system described in 1. [Aspect 5] The connector core includes a core housing extending from the front end to the rear end, and the connector core includes an elongated key coupling rail projecting radially outward from the body of the core housing and extending along at least 25 percent of the total length of the core housing. manner The optical fiber connector system described in 1. [Aspect 6] The front end of the rail is offset from the front end of the core housing, and the rear end of the rail is located adjacent to the core seal. manner The optical fiber connector system described in 5. [Aspect 7] The main body of the core housing defines a flat portion that extends along at least 20% of the total length of the core housing from the front end of the rail to the front end of the core housing. manner The optical fiber connector system described in 6. [Aspect 8] The core seal is positioned behind the longitudinal midpoint of the connector core. manner The optical fiber connector system described in 1. [Aspect 9] The first and second external connection arrangements have a first configuration, and the third external connection arrangement has a second configuration that is different from the first configuration. manner The optical fiber system described in 1. [Aspect 10] The first configuration is suitable for single use with the rotating fastening device, and the second configuration allows for multiple uses with the rotating fastening device. manner The optical fiber system described in section 9. [Aspect 11] The first configuration includes a snap-fit ​​retaining element that holds the rotating fastener connected to the first or second shroud and needs to be broken to rotate the rotating fastener from the connected state to the unconnected state, manner The optical fiber system described in 10. [Aspect 12] The second configuration includes a retaining element which holds the rotating engagement fastener connected to the third high-durability optical fiber adapter, but which allows the rotating fixing fastener to rotate from the connected state to the disconnected state without requiring the destruction of the retaining element. manner The optical fiber system described in 11. [Aspect 13] A fiber optic connection device, A connector core comprising a core housing and a seal mounted on the core housing for sealing to a structure adapted to receive the connector core, wherein the structure includes a shroud, an optical fiber adapter, or a dust cap. An optical fiber connection device comprising: a rotating fastening device mounted on the core for fixing the core to the structure, wherein the seal is positioned inside the rotating fastening device. [Aspect 14] The seal is located in the rear third of the entire length of the connector core, and the ferrule is positioned at the front end of the connector core. mannerThe optical fiber connection device described in 13. [Aspect 15] The system further comprises a key coupling rail integrated with the core housing, extending forward from the seal and along at least 25 percent of the overall length of the core housing, manner The optical fiber connection device described in 13. [Aspect 16] A fiber optic connection device, An optical fiber connection device comprising an optical fiber adapter including a body having a first end defining a highly durable connector port and a second end defining a non-highly durable connector port, wherein the body is configured to be mounted in a mounting opening having a cross-sectional area of ​​150 square millimeters or less. [Aspect 17] The ratio of the cross-sectional area of ​​the mounting opening to the length of the optical fiber adapter in millimeter units is 3 or less. manner The optical fiber connection device described in 16. [Aspect 18] The optical fiber adapter includes an external retaining arrangement adjacent to the first end, the external retaining arrangement includes a snap-fit ​​feature, and also includes a plurality of axial fasteners positioned around the outer circumference of the adapter body. manner The optical fiber connection device described in 16. [Aspect 19] The adapter body defines an internal holder for holding the ferrule alignment sleeve. manner Optical fiber connection device as described in 18. [Aspect 20] The adapter body includes a flange and a male threaded portion, the mounting opening is defined through a wall, and when the adapter body is mounted in the mounting opening, the wall is compressed between the flange and a nut screwed onto the male thread. manner Optical fiber connection device as described in 19. [Aspect 21] A fiber optic connection device, A connector core comprising a core housing and a seal mounted on the core housing for sealing to a structure adapted to receive the connector core, wherein the structure includes a shroud, an optical fiber adapter, or a dust cap, A rotating fastening device mounted on the connector core for fixing the connector core to the structure, wherein the seal is positioned inside the rotating fastening device, the rotating fastening device has an internal connection arrangement including a plurality of inclined snap-fit ​​features uniformly spaced apart about the central axis of the rotating fastening device, each of the inclined snap-fit ​​features including an inclined surface and a stop surface, and the internal connection arrangement has an axial holding arrangement including four axial stoppers uniformly spaced apart about the central axis inside the rotating fastening device, A fiber optic connection device equipped with the following features. [Aspect 22] The optical fiber connection device according to embodiment 21, wherein the seal is located in the rear third of the total length of the connector core, and the ferrule is located at the front end of the connector core. [Aspect 23] The optical fiber connection device according to embodiment 21, further comprising an elongated key integrated with the core housing, extending forward from the seal. [Aspect 24] The optical fiber connection device according to embodiment 23, wherein the elongated key extends along at least 25% of the total length of the core housing. [Pattern 25] The core housing has an outer jacket that is attached to it by a sleeve, The optical fiber connection device according to embodiment 21, wherein the rotating fastening device is axially captured between the outer fastener of the core housing and the front end of the sleeve, and the rotating fastening device is held in the core housing. [Aspect 26] The optical fiber connection device according to embodiment 21, further comprising an outer stopper positioned adjacent to the cable mounting end of the core housing, the outer stopper having a forward-facing positive stop surface for providing a stopper for stopping the insertion of the connector core into the optical fiber adapter, and a rearward-facing positive stop surface for axial holding of the rotating fixing fastener. [Aspect 27] A fiber optic connection device, The optical fiber adapter comprises a body having a first end defining a highly durable connector port and a second end defining a non-highly durable connector port, The main body is configured to be mounted in a mounting opening having a cross-sectional area of ​​150 square millimeters or less. The main body has a keyway for receiving an elongated key defined by the connector core, The keyway is defined by two helical shoulders, which rotate in opposing helical directions around the central longitudinal axis of the body. The two helical shoulders provide rotational guides for the connector core when it is inserted into the durable connector port along a rotational range of at least 180 degrees, 170 degrees, 135 degrees, or 90 degrees of movement. The optical fiber connector further includes a retaining collar configured to be mounted on the outside of the main body, The retaining collar is movable between an extended position and a retracted position. In the extended position, one or more retaining members defined inside the retaining collar prevent the rotating fastener from rotating from a connected rotational position to an unconnected rotational position. Optical fiber connection device. [Aspect 28] The optical fiber connection device according to embodiment 27, wherein the ratio of the cross-sectional area of ​​the mounting opening to the length of the optical fiber adapter in millimeter units is 3 or less. [Aspect 29] The optical fiber connector according to embodiment 27, wherein the optical fiber adapter includes an external retaining arrangement adjacent to the first end, the external retaining arrangement includes a snap-fit ​​feature and also includes a plurality of axial fasteners positioned around the outer circumference of the main body. [Aspect 30] The optical fiber connection device according to embodiment 29, wherein the main body defines an internal holder for holding a ferrule alignment sleeve. [Aspect 31] The optical fiber connection device according to embodiment 30, wherein the main body includes a flange and a male threaded portion, the mounting opening is defined through a wall, and when the main body is mounted in the mounting opening, the wall is compressed between the flange and a nut screwed into the male threaded portion.

Claims

1. A fiber optic connection device, A connector core comprising a core housing and a seal mounted on the core housing for sealing to a structure adapted to receive the connector core, wherein the structure includes a shroud, an optical fiber adapter, or a dust cap, A rotating fastening device mounted on the connector core for fixing the connector core to the structure, wherein the seal is positioned inside the rotating fastening device, the rotating fastening device has an internal coupling arrangement, the internal coupling arrangement has a plurality of inclined snap-fit ​​features uniformly spaced around the central axis of the rotating fastening device, each of the plurality of inclined snap-fit ​​features includes an inclined surface and a stop surface for preventing rotation, the internal coupling arrangement further has an axial holding arrangement inside the rotating fastening device that includes four axial stoppers uniformly spaced around the central axis, each of the four axial stoppers includes a stop surface for preventing axial movement, and A fiber optic connection device equipped with the following features.

2. The optical fiber connection device according to claim 1, wherein the seal is located in the rear third of the total length of the connector core, and the ferrule is positioned at the front end of the connector core.

3. The optical fiber connection device according to claim 1, further comprising an elongated key integrated with the core housing, extending forward from the seal.

4. The optical fiber connection device according to claim 3, wherein the elongated key extends along at least 25% of the total length of the core housing.

5. The core housing has an outer jacket that is attached to it by a sleeve, The optical fiber connection device according to claim 1, wherein the rotating fastening device is axially captured between the outer fastener of the core housing and the front end of the sleeve, and the rotating fastening device is held in the core housing.

6. The optical fiber connection device according to claim 1, further comprising an outer stopper positioned adjacent to the cable mounting end of the core housing, the outer stopper having a forward-facing positive stop surface for providing a stopper for stopping the insertion of the connector core into the optical fiber adapter, and a rearward-facing positive stop surface for axial holding of the rotating fixing fastener.

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