Mechanical connection interface

Abstract

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

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Cross - Reference to Related Applications This application was filed as a PCT international patent application on May 14, 2020, claiming the benefit of U.S. Patent Application No. 62 / 849,760 filed on May 17, 2019, U.S. Patent Application No. 62 / 891,749 filed on August 26, 2019, U.S. Patent Application No. 62 / 929,532 filed on November 1, 2019, U.S. Patent Application No. 62 / 961,044 filed on January 14, 2020, and U.S. Patent Application No. 63 / 003,996 filed on April 2, 2020. The disclosures of those applications are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties into this specification.

[0002] This disclosure generally relates to mechanical connection interfaces. More specifically, this disclosure relates to a turn - and - lock mechanical connection interface that can be used in electrical communication connectors.

Background Art

[0003] A turn - and - lock connection interface is an interface that is connected and disconnected by a twisting operation. A turn - and - lock connection interface can be used in electrical communication connectors. For example, turn - and - lock connection interfaces have been used to secure electrical communication connectors to each other, to secure electrical communication connectors to electrical communication adapters, and to interconnect separate components of electrical communication connectors. U.S. Patent No. 7,744,288 and European Patent 2302431 disclose electrical communication connectors that utilize turn - and - lock connection interfaces.

Summary of the Invention

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

[0005] In a particular example, components embodying a turn-and-fix interface are rotatable relative to each other about a central axis between a first and a second rotation state. The components may include a stop configuration that limits the range of rotation between the first and second rotation states. The stop configuration may also be configured to allow the components to be axially separated from each other when in the first rotation state and to prevent the components from being axially separated from each other when in the second rotation state.

[0006] The components may include snap-fit ​​configurations to resist movement from a second rotational state to a first rotational state. In one example, the snap-fit ​​configuration may be designed to require the components to be damaged (e.g., broken) so that the snap-fit ​​configuration rotates relative to each other from the second rotational state to the first rotational state. In other examples, the snap-fit ​​configuration may be configured to bend without breaking or otherwise damaging in order to adapt to movement from the second rotational state to the first rotational state. In certain examples, the components do not move axially relative to each other because the components rotate between the first and second rotational states.

[0007] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a turn-and-fix connection interface including a first component defining an axis. The first component includes a rotary fixing latch. The first component also includes a first stop configuration including a first stop surface facing a first axial axis and a second stop surface facing a second axial direction along the axis. The first axial direction is opposite to the second axial direction. The first component also includes a third stop surface facing a first rotational direction about the axis. The turn-and-fix connection interface also includes a second component including a rotary fixing catch. The second component also includes a rotary fixing catch, and the second component also includes a fourth stop surface facing a second axial direction, a fifth stop surface facing a first axial direction, and a sixth stop surface facing a second rotational direction about the axis, opposite to the first rotational direction. The rotating-to-fix connection interface is positionable in a first rotational state in which the first stop surface faces the fourth stop surface, the second stop surface is rotationally offset from the fifth stop surface, and the third stop surface is rotationally offset from the sixth stop surface by a rotation angle of 360 degrees or less. The rotating-to-fix connection interface is also positionable in a second rotational state in which the first stop surface faces the fourth stop surface, the second stop surface faces the fifth stop surface, and the third stop surface faces and is adjacent to the sixth stop surface. The rotating-to-fix connection interface is movable from the first rotational state to the second rotational state by rotating the first and second components relative to each other through a rotation angle. The rotating-to-fix connection interface faces each other circumferentially when the rotating-to-fix connection interface is in the second rotational state and resists the rotating-to-fix interface from rotating from the second rotational state to the first rotational state. The contact between the rotary fixing latch and the rotary fixing catch elastically bends the rotary fixing latch from the fixed position to the clearance position as the connecting interface to be turned and fixed moves from a first rotational state to a second rotational state, allowing the rotary fixing latch and the rotary fixing catch to move through each other in the rotational direction.The rotary fixing latch resists the rotation of the interface that turns and fixes, returning elastically to the fixing position after the rotary fixing latch and rotary fixing catch have moved through each other, from the second rotational state to the first rotational state.

[0008] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a turn-and-fix connection interface including a first component defining a first axis and a second component defining a second axis. The first and second components are configured to be inserted together axially and mechanically coupled together when the first and second components are aligned coaxially. The first component includes a first stop configuration, and the second component includes a second stop configuration. The first and second components are configured to rotate relative to each other about the first and second axes between the first and second rotational states when the first and second components are inserted together axially. The first and second stop configurations are configured to limit the range of rotational movement between the first and second rotational states. The first and second stop configurations are also configured to allow the first and second components to separate axially from each other when they are in a first rotational state, and to prevent the first and second components from separating axially from each other when they are in a second rotational state. The first and second components further include snap-fit ​​configurations to resist movement from the second rotational state to the first rotational state.

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

[0010] Further aspects of the present disclosure relate to an optical fiber connector including a connector body defining a connector axis. The optical fiber connector also includes a retaining sleeve for fixing the optical fiber connector to an optical fiber adapter. The retaining sleeve is mounted on the connector body and is rotatable relative to the connector body about the connector axis. The retaining sleeve includes an in-sleeve stop configuration adapted to interface with a corresponding stop configuration of the optical fiber adapter. The stop configuration of the retaining sleeve includes axial stop surfaces facing opposing first and second axial directions along the connector axis. The stop configuration of the retaining sleeve also includes rotatable stop surfaces facing opposing first and second axial directions about the connector axis.

[0011] A further aspect of this disclosure relates to an optical fiber adapter including an adapter body defining an adapter axis. The adapter body includes an integrated stop configuration located outside the adapter body for interface with a corresponding stop configuration of an optical fiber connector. The stop configuration of the adapter body includes axial stop surfaces facing opposing first and second axial directions along the adapter axis. The stop configuration of the adapter body also includes rotational stop surfaces facing opposing first and second rotational directions about the adapter axis.

[0012] Various additional embodiments will be described below. The embodiments of the 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] The accompanying drawings incorporated herein and constituting part thereof illustrate several aspects of this disclosure. A brief description of the drawings is as follows:

[0014] [Figure 1] The optical fiber connector and corresponding optical fiber adapter are illustrated, including a turn-and-fix connection interface according to the principle of this disclosure for mechanically fixing the optical fiber connector and optical fiber adapter together. [Figure 2] This is another diagram of the optical fiber adapter and optical fiber connector shown in Figure 1. [Figure 3] Figure 1 shows a further diagram of the optical fiber connector and optical fiber adapter. [Figure 4] Figures 1-3 show a perspective view of the first end of the retaining sleeve of the optical fiber connector, which forms part of the connection interface that is turned and fixed. [Figure 5] Figure 4 is another perspective view of the first end of the retaining sleeve. [Figure 6]This is a perspective view of the second end opposite to the retaining sleeve in Figure 4. [Figure 7] Figure 4 is an end view of the first end of the retaining sleeve. [Figure 8] Figure 4 is a side view of the retaining sleeve. [Figure 9] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram in which the retaining sleeve is cut in the axial direction and arranged in a plane, so that the inside of the retaining sleeve can be seen in the plan view, and the circumference of the retaining sleeve is denoted by C and the length of the retaining sleeve is denoted by L. [Figure 10] Figures 1-3 are perspective views of the fiber optic adapter, showing an exemplary snap-fit ​​latch. [Figure 11] Figure 10 is a side view of the optical fiber adapter. [Figure 12] Figure 10 is another side view of the optical fiber adapter. [Figure 13] Figure 10 is an end view of the optical fiber adapter. [Figure 14] Figures 10-13 are schematic diagrams of a portion of the optical fiber adapter, where a part is cut axially and arranged in a plane so that the entire exterior of the adapter body can be seen in a plan view, and the circumference of the adapter body is denoted by C, and the length of the portion of the adapter body is denoted by L. [Figure 15] These are schematic plan views showing the interfaces of the optical fiber connectors and optical fiber adapters shown in Figures 1-3, before the interfaces are inserted together axially, and then turned and fixed in place. [Figure 16] Figure 15 shows a turn-and-fix interface having a retaining sleeve for the optical fiber connector and an adapter body for the optical fiber adapter, inserted together in the first rotational state. [Figure 17] Figures 15 and 16 show the connection interface that is turned and fixed in the second rotational state. [Figure 18] Figures 1-3 are perspective views illustrating optical fiber connectors aligned with their corresponding dust caps. [Figure 19] Figure 18 is a perspective view of the dust cap. [Figure 20] It is an end view of the dust cap of FIG. 19. [Figure 21] It is an end view of the optical fiber connectors of FIGS. 1 to 3 and 18. [Figure 22] Another snap - fit latch according to the principles of the present disclosure is illustrated. [Figure 23] Yet another snap - fit latch according to the principles of the present disclosure is illustrated. [Figure 24] A cantilever - type snap - fit latch according to the principles of the present disclosure is illustrated. [Figure 25] Another cantilever - type snap - fit latch according to the principles of the present disclosure is illustrated. [Figure 26] It is another view of the latch of FIG. 25. [Figure 27] It is a further view of the latch of FIG. 25. [Figure 28] An exemplary tapered introduction part for interlocking according to the principles of the present disclosure is illustrated. [Figure 29] Another example of a tapered introduction part for interlocking according to the principles of the present disclosure is illustrated. [Figure 30] An optical fiber adapter including a coupling configuration according to the principles of the present disclosure that forms part of a connection interface for turning and fixing is illustrated. [Figure 31] It is a cross - sectional view of the optical fiber adapter of FIG. 30. [Figure 32] It is another cross - sectional view of the optical fiber adapter of FIG. 30. [Figure 33] It is an exploded view of an optical fiber connector according to the principles of the present disclosure. [Figure 34] It is an assembly view of the optical fiber connector of FIG. 33. [Figure 35] The optical fiber connector of FIG. 34 with the outer fastening member and the outer dust cap removed is shown. [Figure 36] The core assembly of the optical fiber connector of FIG. 34 is illustrated. [Figure 37]Figure 34 is a side view of the optical fiber connector with the outer dust cap and outer fastening member removed. [Figure 38] Figure 37 is a perspective view of a portion of the assembly. [Figure 39] Figure 37 is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of the assembly. [Figure 40] Figure 37 is another cross-sectional view of the assembly. [Figure 41] Figure 37 is an end view showing the rear latch configuration integrated with the shroud of the assembly. [Figure 42] Figure 34 is a perspective view of the outer fastening member of the optical fiber connector. [Figure 43] Figure 34 is a perspective view of the outer dust cap of the optical fiber connector. [Figure 44] This is a perspective view showing the outer dust cap in Figure 43, which is used to pry open the outer fastening member in Figure 42. [Figure 45] Figure 33 illustrates a preliminary assembly including the dust cap, lanyard, fastening members, and shroud. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0015] Figures 1-3 illustrate an optical fiber connector 20 and a corresponding optical fiber adapter 22, including a turn-and-fix mechanical connection interface according to the principles of the present disclosure for fixing the optical fiber connector 20 and the optical fiber adapter 22 together. In the illustrated example, the turn-and-fix connection interface includes a first component, shown as an outer adapter body 24 of the optical fiber adapter 22, and a second component, shown as an outer retaining sleeve 26 of the optical fiber connector 20. The retaining sleeve 26 is mounted on the connector body 28 of the optical fiber connector 20 and is configured to rotate relative to the connector body 28 about a central axis defined by the optical fiber connector 20. The turn-and-fix connection interface, incorporated as part of the retaining sleeve 26 and the outer adapter body 24, is adapted to hold the connector body 28 within the optical fiber adapter 22. During use, the connector body 28 is inserted into the optical fiber adapter 22, and the retaining sleeve 26 is then axially slid on the outer adapter body 24 to a first insertion position where the retaining sleeve 26 and the outer adapter body 24 are in a first rotational state relative to each other. Next, the retaining sleeve 26 is turned from the first rotational state to a second rotational state relative to the connector body 28 and the outer adapter body 24. In the first rotational state, the retaining sleeve 26 may be pulled axially away from the outer adapter body 24. In contrast, in the second rotational state, the stop configuration of the connection interface that turns and fixes prevents the retaining sleeve 26 from being pulled axially away from the outer adapter body 24. Internal stop parts, such as shoulders, within the retaining sleeve 26 are positioned opposite corresponding stop parts on the connector body 28 so that the retaining sleeve 26 prevents the connector body 28 from being pulled out from the optical fiber adapter 22 when the retaining sleeve 26 is in the second rotational state. In a preferred example, a snap-fit ​​configuration is provided to hold the retaining sleeve 26 in a second rotational position relative to the outer adapter body 24.

[0016] The outer adapter body 24 defines the adapter shaft 30 (see Figure 13), and the retaining sleeve 26 defines the sleeve shaft 32 (see Figure 7). The outer adapter body 24 and the retaining sleeve 26 are configured to be inserted together axially and mechanically connected together when the outer adapter body 24 and the retaining sleeve 26 are aligned coaxially. The outer adapter body 24 includes a first stop configuration 34 for a connecting interface that turns and locks, and the retaining sleeve 26 defines a second stop configuration 36 for a connecting interface that turns and locks.

[0017] Referring to Figures 10-14, the first stop configuration 34 includes a plurality of triangular projections 38 on the outside of the outer adapter body 24. The triangular projections 38 are spaced apart around the circumference C of the outer adapter body 24. Figure 14 shows the outer adapter body 24, which is cut axially at one circumferential location and positioned in a plane, with the total circumference C of the outer adapter body 24 and the length L of the outer adapter body 24 as shown in the plan view. The triangular projections 38 are uniformly spaced around the circumference C. The first stop configuration 34 also includes at least one snap-fit ​​feature that forms part of a snap-fit ​​configuration. As shown in Figures 10-14, the snap-fit ​​feature includes two elastic rotational fixing latches 40 positioned on the opposite side of the outer adapter body 24.

[0018] The second stop configuration 36 of the turn-and-fix connection interface includes a plurality of recesses 42 positioned within the retaining sleeve 26 (see Figures 4-10). The recesses 42 are uniformly spaced around the circumference C of the retaining sleeve 26. As shown in Figure 9, the retaining sleeve 26 is cut axially in one place and positioned in a plane so that the entire interior of the retaining sleeve 26 is visible in a plan view. As shown in Figure 9, the recesses 42 are uniformly spaced along the circumference C of the retaining sleeve 26.

[0019] The second stop configuration 36 also includes a plurality of snap-fit ​​features, which are part of a snap-fit ​​configuration for holding the retaining sleeve 26 in a second rotational state relative to the outer adapter body 24. The snap-fit ​​features are illustrated as rotational fixing catches 44 that are uniformly spaced around the circumference of the retaining sleeve 26 within the interior of the retaining sleeve 26. Each of the rotational fixing catches 44 includes an inclined surface 46 and a fixing surface 48.

[0020] It will be understood that the first and second stop configurations 34, 36 are adapted to provide a turn-and-fix connection interface having several feature parts. For example, when the retaining sleeve 26 and the outer adapter body 24 are initially inserted together, the adapter shaft 30 and the sleeve shaft 32 are aligned coaxially, and the retaining sleeve 26 can rotate relative to the outer adapter body 24 about the shafts 30, 32 between the first and second rotation states. The first and second stop configurations 34, 36 are configured to limit the range of rotational movement allowed between the first and second rotation states. In one example, the range of rotational movement allowed is 360 degrees or less, or 180 degrees or less, or 90 degrees or less. In the illustrated example, the interaction between the first and second stop configurations 34, 36 limits the range of rotation between the first and second rotation states to 90 degrees or less. The first and second stop configurations 34 and 36 are also configured to allow the optical fiber adapter 22 and the retaining sleeve 26 to be inserted together axially and separated from each other axially when the retaining sleeve 26 and the outer adapter body 24 are in a first rotational state. Furthermore, the first and second stop configurations 34 and 36 are configured such that interference between the first and second stop configurations 34 and 36 prevents the retaining sleeve 26 from being axially removed from the outer adapter body 24 when the retaining sleeve 26 and the outer adapter body 24 are in a second rotational state.

[0021] The snap-fit ​​configuration of the turn-and-fix connection interface is configured to resist rotational movement between the retaining sleeve 26 and the outer adapter body 24 when the outer adapter body 24 and retaining sleeve 26 are in a second rotational state, and toward a first rotational state. The rotational fixing latch 40 and rotational fixing catch 44 are configured such that contact between the inclined surface 46 of the rotational fixing catch 44 and the rotational fixing latch 40 as the retaining sleeve 26 is rotated from the first rotational state to the second rotational state causes the rotational fixing latch 40 to elastically bend from the fixed position to the clearance position, allowing the rotational fixing latch 40 and the rotational fixing catch 44 to move through each other in the rotational direction. The rotational fixing latch 40 is configured to elastically return to the fixed position after the rotational fixing latch 40 and the rotational fixing catch 44 have moved through each other. Once the retaining sleeve 26 is moved to the second rotational state and the rotational fixing latch 40 is returned to the fixing position, the fixing surface 48 of the rotational fixing catch 44 faces the stopping surface 50 on the side of the rotational fixing latch 40, resisting the retaining sleeve 26 from returning from the second rotational state to the first rotational state.

[0022] Referring to Figures 10 and 14, the rotational fixing latches 40 on the outer adapter body 24 are each formed by flexible beams 62 having first and second opposing ends 64, 66, which are integrally formed with and fixed to the main body of the outer adapter body 24. An open space or region 68 is defined between each of the flexible beams 62 and the main body of the outer adapter body 24 to provide space that allows the flexible beams 62 to bend radially inward with respect to the adapter axis 30 when contacted by a corresponding inclined surface 46 of one of the rotational fixing catches 44. Each of the flexible beams 62 includes a rotational stopping surface 70 facing a first rotational direction 72 and an inclined engaging surface 74 facing a second rotational direction 76 opposite to the first rotational direction 72. When the retaining sleeve 26 and the outer adapter body 24 are rotated relative to each other between a first rotational state and a second rotational state, the inclined surface 46 of the rotating fixing catch 44 engages with the inclined engaging surface 74 of the flexible beam 62, thereby bending the flexible beam 62 radially inward and allowing the rotating fixing catch 44 to move through the flexible beam 62. Once the rotating fixing catch 44 has moved through the flexible beam 62, the flexible beam 62 elastically returns to an unbent state such that the rotational stopping surface 70 faces the rotational stopping surface 48 of the corresponding fixing catch 48. The rotational stopping surface 48 of the fixing catch 44 faces the second rotational direction 76.

[0023] In certain examples, the engagement between the rotation stop surface 70 and the rotation stop surface 48 resists the retaining sleeve 26 from rotating relative to the outer adapter body 24, which returns from a second rotational state to a first rotational state. In certain examples, the engagement of the stop surfaces 70 and 48 is sufficiently robust to require that the flexible beam 62 be damaged or fractured in order for the retaining sleeve 26 to move from the second rotational position back to the first rotational position. Therefore, in such situations, sufficient torque must be applied to the retaining sleeve 26 to fracture the flexible beam 62 in order to move the retaining sleeve 26 back from the second rotational position to the first rotational position. In certain examples, the flexible beam 62 may be designed to control the amount of force required to fracture the flexible beam 62. For example, by changing the thickness of the flexible beam 62, or by providing regions within the flexible beam with reduced strength (e.g., notched regions, partially cut regions, etc.), the force required to break the flexible beam 62 can be customized for different applications (see, for example, Figures 22 and 23). In certain examples, damage to the flexible beam 62 can be used as a visual indicator that the retaining sleeve 26 has moved from a second rotational position back to a first rotational position. Thus, the flexible beam 62 can function as a tampering indicator.

[0024] Referring further to Figures 10 and 14, the first stop configuration 34 includes an axial stop surface 54 facing a first axial direction 58 along the adapter axis 30, and a stop surface 55 facing a second axial direction 60 along the adapter axis 30. The first and second axial directions 58, 60 are opposite to each other. The first stop configuration 34 also includes a rotation stop surface 57 facing a second rotation direction 76. The axial stop surface 54 is defined by the corner of the first triangular projection 38, the axial stop surface 55 is defined by the side of the first triangular projection 38 opposite to the corner defining the stop surface 54, and the rotation stop surface 57 is defined by the side of the first triangular projection 38 extending between the axial stop surfaces 54, 55. It will be understood that the first stop configuration 34 is partially defined by the first triangular projection 38 and partially defined by the rotation fixing latch 40.

[0025] It will be understood that the second stop configuration 36 is partially defined by the recess 42 and partially defined by the rotational fixing catch 44 within the retaining sleeve 26. Referring, for example, to Figure 9, the rotational fixing catch 44 defines a rotational stop surface 48 facing the second rotational direction 76. The triangular recess 42 also includes an axial stop surface 56 facing the second axial direction 60, an axial stop surface 59 facing the first axial direction 58, and a rotational stop surface 61 facing the first rotational direction 72. The recess 42 includes a triangular portion 63 shaped to complement the shape of the triangular projection 38. The access gap 52 is tapered to facilitate guiding the triangular projection 38 into the recess 42 when the retaining sleeve 26 and the outer adapter body 24 are inserted together axially.

[0026] As used herein, a surface is "facing a certain direction" if it faces that direction at least partially.

[0027] Figure 15 shows the retaining sleeve 26 aligned axially with the outer adapter body 24 before axial insertion between the outer adapter body 24 and the retaining sleeve 26. When positioned in this manner, the triangular projection 38 on the outer adapter body 24 aligns with the gap 52 that provides access to the recess 42 within the retaining sleeve 26. When the retaining sleeve 26 and the outer adapter body 24 are inserted together axially, the tapering configuration of the triangular projection 38 and the tapering configuration of the access gap 52 facilitates guiding the triangular projection 38 into the recess 42.

[0028] Figure 16 shows the retaining sleeve 26 and the outer adapter body 24 inserted together axially in a first rotational state. In the first rotational state, the stop surface 54 of the outer adapter body 24 faces or engages with the corresponding stop surface 56 of the retaining sleeve 26 to limit the depth of axial insertion that can occur between the retaining sleeve 26 and the outer adapter body 24. In addition, the axial stop surface 55 of the first stop configuration 34 is rotationally offset from the axial stop surface 59 of the second stop configuration 36 so as not to provide interference between the stop surfaces 55, 59 which would prevent the outer adapter body 24 and the retaining sleeve 26 from separating from each other axially. Thus, in the first rotational state of Figure 16, the outer adapter body 24 and the retaining sleeve 26 can separate from each other axially. In addition, the rotational stop surface 57 of the first stop configuration 34 is rotationally offset from the rotational stop surface 61 of the second stop configuration 36 by rotation angle A. In certain cases, the rotation angle A is approximately 90 degrees or less. In one example, the rotation angle A is approximately 90 degrees, roughly corresponding to a quarter turn of the retaining sleeve 26 relative to the outer adapter body 24. In another example, the rotation angle A is approximately 45 degrees.

[0029] Figure 17 shows the outer adapter body 24 and retaining sleeve 26 in the second rotation state. To move the outer adapter body 24 and retaining sleeve 26 from the first rotation state to the second rotation state, the retaining sleeve 26 can be rotated in a first direction 72 relative to the outer adapter body 24 through angle A. When the retaining sleeve 26 is rotated from the first rotation state to the second rotation state, the triangular projection 38 is received within the triangular portion 63 of the recess 42 of the retaining sleeve 26, as shown in Figure 17. Once positioned in this manner, the stop surface 54 of the first stop configuration 34 continues to face the stop surface 56 of the second stop configuration 38. Also, the stop surface 55 of the first stop configuration 34 faces the stop surface 59 of the second stop configuration 36 so as to prevent interference between the stop surfaces 55, 59 from separating the retaining sleeve 26 and the outer adapter body 24 axially from each other. Furthermore, the rotation stop surface 57 of the first stop configuration 34 faces and is adjacent to the rotation stop surface 61 of the second stop configuration 36, thereby limiting the range of rotational movement possible between the retaining sleeve 26 and the outer adapter body 24 when the retaining sleeve 26 is rotated between the first and second rotational states.

[0030] When the retaining sleeve 26 is in the second rotational state, the rotational stop surface 48 of the rotational fixing catch 44 faces the rotational stop surface 70 of the rotational fixing latch 40. In this way, the stop surfaces 70 and 48 resist the rotation of the retaining sleeve 26 returning from the second rotational position to the first rotational position. When the retaining sleeve 26 is rotated from the first rotational position to the second rotational position, the inclined engaging surface 74 of the rotational fixing latch 40 engages with the inclined surface 46 of the rotational fixing catch 44, elastically bending the rotational fixing latch 40 from the fixing position to the clearance position, allowing the rotational fixing catch 44 to move through the rotational fixing latch 40 in the rotational direction. The rotational fixing latch 40 elastically returns to their fixing position after the rotational fixing catch has moved through the rotational fixing latch 40. Once the rotary fixing latch 40 returns to its fixed position, the rotation stop surface 70 of the rotary fixing latch 40 faces the rotation stop surface 48 of the rotary fixing catch 44 and resists the rotation of the retaining sleeve 26 returning from the second rotation state to the first rotation state.

[0031] In the illustrated example, the rotation stop surface 48 of the rotational fixing catch 44 and the rotation stop surface 70 of the rotational fixing latch 40 are positioned substantially perpendicular to the direction of rotation 76 required to move the retaining sleeve 26 from a second rotational position back to a first rotational position. Therefore, it is generally required to break the rotational fixing latch 40 in order to return the retaining sleeve 26 from the second rotational state to the first rotational state. In other examples, the rotation stop surface 48 and / or rotation stop surface 70 may be angled with respect to the direction of rotation 76 such that the surface resists moving the retaining sleeve 26 from the first rotational state to the second rotational state, but when sufficient torque is applied to the retaining sleeve 26, it will bend the rotational fixing latch 40 radially inward, allowing the retaining sleeve 26 to move from the first rotational state to the second rotational state. It will be understood that the amount of torque required will depend on the selected angle of the stop surface. In this type of configuration, the retaining sleeve 26 can move from a first rotational state to a second rotational state without breaking the rotational fixing latch 40.

[0032] Figure 18 shows an optical fiber connector 20 aligned with a corresponding dust cap 100. The optical fiber connector has a connector end 102. The optical fiber connector defines an axis 104. The optical fiber connector 20 supports an optical fiber 106 having a fiber end adjacent to the connector end 102. In the illustrated example, the optical fiber 106 is supported within a ferrule 107. In other examples, a connector without a ferrule may be used. A retaining sleeve 26 is rotatably mounted on the connector body 28. The dust cap 100 includes a first stop configuration 36. The cap 100 is mounted on the connector end 102 to protect the end of the optical fiber 106. The cap 100 is secured to the optical fiber connector 20 by the retaining sleeve 26. The retaining sleeve 26 and the cap 100 are axially insertable together and, when inserted together, are rotatable relative to each other between a first rotational state and a second rotational state in the same manner as described with respect to the relationship between the retaining sleeve 26 and the outer adapter body 24. The cap 100 is axially removable from the connector 20 when the retaining sleeve 26 and the cap 100 are in a first rotational state. The cap 100 is not axially removable from the optical fiber connector 20 when the retaining sleeve 26 and the cap 100 are in a second rotational state due to interference between the first and second stop configurations 34, 36.

[0033] Snap-fit ​​configurations provided as part of the first and second stop configurations 34, 36 are configured to hold the cap 100 and retaining sleeve 26 in a second rotational position. In certain examples, the snap-fit ​​configuration requires to be damaged in order to return the retaining sleeve 26 and cap 100 from the second rotational position to the first rotational position. In this way, the snap-fit ​​interface can function as a tampering indicator. For example, once the fiber optic connector 20 has been processed and cleaned at the factory, the cap 100 may be installed at the factory on the fiber optic connector 20 by interlocking the dust cap 100 with the retaining sleeve 26. Preferably, the dust cap 100 is not removed before the fiber optic connector is used in the field. Therefore, when the fiber optic connector is ready for use in the field, the field technician rotates the outer adapter body 24 and retaining sleeve 26 from the second rotational position back to the first rotational position, thereby breaking the snap-fit ​​configuration. If the snap-fit ​​configuration is already broken, the field technician will realize that the fiber optic connector may have been misused.

[0034] As used herein, the first rotational state may be referred to as the uncoupled rotational state, and the second rotational state may be referred to as the coupled rotational state. In the uncoupled rotational state, the first and second stop configurations 34, 36 do not interlock so that the two connectable components (e.g., the adapter body 24 and the retaining sleeve 26) can be separated from each other axially. In contrast, in the coupled rotational state, the stop configurations of the two components are coupled together and overlap each other to prevent the two components from being disengaged axially. Furthermore, in the coupled rotational position, the snap-fit ​​configuration of the components is also preferably interlocked to prevent the components from being rotated back from the coupled rotational state to the uncoupled rotational state. In certain examples, the snap-fit ​​configuration may include a stopper that can be overcome when sufficient torque is applied between the components to disengage the snap-fit ​​connection. In certain examples, the stopper configuration is reusable and designed not to break when the components are moved back from the coupled rotational position to the uncoupled rotational position. In other examples, a snap-fit ​​configuration may be adapted as a single-use connection and require to be broken to move the connected components back from a connected rotational position to an unconnected rotational position. In other examples, a snap-fit ​​configuration may include a latch that can be manually moved (e.g., pushed down) from a retaining position to a release position to allow the connected components to be moved back from a connected rotational position to an unconnected rotational position. In such examples, the latch may include a portion positioned outside the connected components (e.g., outside the retaining sleeve 26) that can be accessed to move the latch to a release position where the latch does not obstruct the rotational movement of the components back from a connected rotational position to an unconnected rotational position.

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

[0036] Figure 22 illustrates an alternative rotary-fixed latch 40a according to the principles of the present disclosure. The rotary-fixed latch 40a includes a beam 300 having opposing fixed ends. An open space is located beneath the beam 300. A notch 301 is provided on an opposing side of the beam adjacent to the end of the beam 300. The beam 300 has a length that extends in a direction transverse to the rotational direction of the movement of the first and second components connected together. Thus, the beam 300 is transverse to the circumferential direction.

[0037] Figure 23 shows another rotational fixing latch 40b according to the principle of the present disclosure. The rotational fixing latch 40b also includes a beam 310 having fixed opposing ends. One mounting point 311 of the ends of the beam 310 has a reduced cross-sectional area compared to the opposite end 313. An open space is located between the beam 310 and the main body of the component to which the beam is connected. The beam 310 has a length that transverses the rotational orientation of the components connected together.

[0038] Figure 24 illustrates another rotational fixing latch 40c according to the principles of this disclosure. The rotational fixing latch 40c has a cantilever configuration including one end 315 integral with its corresponding component and the opposite free end 317. A portion of the beam 318 may be contoured to facilitate the sliding of the rotational fixing catch over the beam. It will be understood that any of the beams 40a-40c may be used in combination with the rotational fixing catch 44 described above, which is part of a second stop configuration provided within the retaining sleeve 26. Furthermore, all of the beams illustrated in Figures 22-24 have large dimensions extending transversely with respect to the rotational direction, generating relative rotational movement between the first and second components which are desired to be connected together.

[0039] Figures 25-27 illustrate a further rotational fixing latch 40d according to the principles of the present disclosure. The rotational fixing latch 40d may replace the rotational fixing latch 40 and may be incorporated as part of the first stop configuration 34. The rotational fixing latch 40d may be configured to provide a snap-fit ​​connection with the rotational fixing catch 44 of the second stop configuration 36. Unlike the rotational fixing latch described above, the rotational fixing latch 40d has a cantilever configuration and a beam 340 having a length extending in a direction d parallel to the direction of rotation, and the first and second components, which are to be connected together, rotate when the components are rotated between an unconnected rotational position and a connected rotational position. The beam 340 has a fixed end 341 and a free end 342. The free end 342 is circumferentially offset from the fixed end 341. A contoured inclined feature 344 is defined at a location axially offset from the primary length of the beam. The inclined feature 344 is configured to facilitate the passage of the rotational fixing catch 44 over the rotational fixing latch 40d as the component moves from an unconnected rotational position to a connected rotational position. When the rotational fixing catch 44 engages with the contoured inclined surface, the cantilever beam bends radially inward to allow the rotational fixing catch 44 to pass over the latch 40d. Once the rotational fixing catch 44 has passed over the latch 40d and the component has reached a connected rotational state, the beam 340 elastically turns to an un-defended state, and the free end of the beam faces the rotational fixing catch 44, preventing the component from rotating from the connected rotational state to an unconnected rotational state.

[0040] It will be understood that latches 40a to 40d can be readily used to prevent the rotation of components such as the retaining sleeve 26 from returning from a coupled rotating state to an uncoupled rotating state. Latch 40d is configured such that, when latched with the retaining sleeve 26, a portion of the latch 40d is accessible from the outside of the retaining sleeve 26, allowing the latch to be manually bent and released relative to the retaining sleeve, thereby allowing the retaining sleeve to rotate from a coupled rotating state to an uncoupled rotating state. Latches 40d and other latches disclosed herein can be integrated with structures such as fiber optic adapter housings, fiber optic connector housings, dust caps, and connector shrouds.

[0041] Figures 28 and 29 show modified configurations for the second stop configuration 36, each showing a modified example of the modified stop portion 38 moving from an uncoupled rotational state to a coupled rotational state. In Figure 28, the stop portion 38 is modified with a tapered or chamfered 38a to facilitate the rotation of the first and second components relative to each other. In Figure 29, the stop portion 38 is modified with a chamfered 38a and the recess 42 is modified with a tapered or chamfered to facilitate the rotation of the first and second components relative to each other. For example, the axial stop surface 59 may include an angled or chamfered introduction portion 59a that is slightly angled with respect to the primary stop surface 59b. The chamfered nature of surfaces 30a, 59a facilitates the rotation of the first and second components, which are desired to be coupled together, from an uncoupled rotational state to a coupled rotational state. Specifically, the two components can rotate from an unconnected rotational state to a connected rotational state even if the two parts are not initially fully inserted into each other axially. When the two components are fully inserted together axially at the start of rotation from the unconnected rotational state to the connected rotational state, the tapered introduction surfaces 59a, 38a engage with each other and compel the two components to the fully inserted position as rotation occurs between the first and second components. Once the first and second components are in the connected rotational position, substantially complete contact is maintained between the stop surface 59 and the stop surface 55. For example, the stop surface 55 may include an angled stop surface 38b facing surface 59a, and the stop surface 55 may include an angled surface 59b facing surface 38a.

[0042] Figures 30-32 illustrate another optical fiber adapter 400 according to the principles of the present disclosure. The optical fiber adapter 400 includes a first stop configuration 34a, which is a modified variant of the first stop configuration 34 and is compatible with a second stop configuration 36. Similar to the first stop configuration 34, the first stop configuration 34a includes a plurality of triangular projections 38 adapted to interlock with recesses 42 of the second stop configuration 36 when the first and second stop configurations are rotated relative to each other in a coupled rotational state. The first stop configuration 34a also includes at least one snap-fit ​​feature adapted to provide a snap-fit ​​connection with the rotational fixing catch 44 of the second stop configuration 36 when the second stop configurations 34a and 36 are coupled together. The snap-fit ​​feature is shown to include a retaining element 40e (e.g., a raised element) adapted to engage with the corresponding catch 44 when the first and second stop configurations 34a and 36 are coupled together. In certain examples, the body supporting the second stop configuration 36 (e.g., the retaining sleeve 26) is sufficiently flexible to allow the inclined portion 46 to rest on the stopper 40e and the stop portion 48 to snap onto the stopper 40e. The stopper 40e is configured to hold components that are desirable to be coupled together in a coupled rotational state, but to allow rotation from a coupled rotational state to an uncoupled rotational state when sufficient torque is applied between the components. Preferably, the stopper 40e does not break when the components are rotated back from a coupled rotational state to an uncoupled rotational state. Thus, the first stop configuration 34a is adapted for multiple uses compared to one that is a single-use configuration.

[0043] In addition, in certain embodiments, the optical fiber adapter 400 includes a retaining collar 450 which can be used to selectively prevent the rotation of the retaining sleeve 26 relative to the optical fiber adapter 400 from a coupled rotating state to an uncoupled rotating state. The retaining collar 450 may be used to provide rotational locking of the retaining sleeve 26, having or not having a return-stopping feature 40e or other type of snap-fit ​​feature that prevents rotation when engaged. The retaining collar 450 may slide between a retracted position and an extended position. As will be described in more detail herein, when in the extended position, the retaining collar 450 prevents the rotation of the retaining sleeve 26 relative to the adapter 400. When in the retracted position, the retaining collar 450 allows the rotation of the retaining sleeve 26 relative to the adapter 400.

[0044] The retaining collar 450 is mounted to the main body of the optical fiber adapter 400 so as not to rotate. For example, the internal portion of the retaining collar 450 may interlock with a corresponding structure on the adapter 400 so as to prevent the retaining collar 450 from rotating relative to the adapter 400, but allowing the retaining collar 450 to move axially relative to the adapter 400 between an extended orientation and a retracted orientation. In one example, the interlock may include an axial rail that fits into an axial groove.

[0045] In certain examples, a retaining configuration 457 may be used to hold the retaining collar 450 in an extended and / or retracted position. In the example illustrated in Figure 31, the retaining configuration 457 includes a protrusion 459 disposed between first and second recesses (e.g., grooves) 456, 458 defined within the adapter 400. An inward projection 453 supported by the retaining collar 450 snaps into the first recess 456 when disposed in the retracted position and into the second recess 458 when disposed in the extended position. The inward projection 453 rests on the protrusion 459 when sufficient force is applied to the retaining collar 450. Thus, the retaining collar 450 is held in one position until the user chooses to move the retaining collar 450 to another position.

[0046] It will be understood that the retaining collar may include an internal retaining member 455 (e.g., a finger), as shown in Figure 32. The retaining member 455 is housed inside the retaining sleeve 26. When the retaining collar 450 is moved from the retracted position to the extended position while the retaining sleeve 26 is in the connected rotational position, the retaining member 455 faces the rotational fixing catch 44 to prevent the retaining sleeve 26 from rotating from the connected rotational state to the unconnected rotational state. By moving the retaining collar 450 back from the extended position to the retracted position, the retaining member 455 passes the fixing catch 44. This allows the retaining sleeve 26 to rotate from the connected rotational state to the unconnected rotational state. In a particular example, the retaining sleeve 26 rotates when the retaining collar 450 is retracted and sufficient torque is applied to the retaining sleeve 26 to overcome the stopper 40e and move the retaining sleeve 26 back from the connected rotational state to the unconnected rotational state.

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

[0048] Figures 33 and 34 illustrate an exemplary optical fiber connector 520 according to the principles of the present disclosure. The optical fiber connector 520 includes a core assembly 522 terminated on an optical fiber cable 524. The core assembly 522 is configured to plug directly into an optical adapter, such as one of the optical adapters 24, 400 disclosed herein. In a particular example, a retaining sleeve 542 supported by the core assembly 522 supports either a first stop configuration 34 or a second stop configuration 36 of a turn-and-fix connection interface. The retaining sleeve 542 may also support any component of a snap-fit ​​configuration (e.g., a rotary fixing latch 40 or a rotary fixing catch 44). Thus, the stop configurations 34, 36 of the retaining sleeve 542 can engage with the stop configurations 36, 34 of the adapter to fix the core assembly 522 to the adapter.

[0049] In certain embodiments, the fiber optic connector 520 is also configured to receive a shroud 526 mounted on the core 534 of the core assembly 522 and an outer fastening member 528 mounted on the shroud 526, thereby enabling the core assembly 522 to be mounted within different types of optical adapters, dust caps, or other mating components. The shroud carries a stop configuration and a snap-fit ​​component that engages with the corresponding stop configuration and snap-fit ​​component on the retaining sleeve 542, thereby securing the shroud to the core assembly 522. The outer fastening member 528 has a connection interface configuration adapted to mate with a corresponding connection interface configuration integrated with a structure such as an optical fiber adapter, dust cap, or another optical fiber connector, to provide a mechanical connection between their interiors. In the illustrated example, the connection interface configuration of the outer fastening member 528 is illustrated to include an external thread, but alternative embodiments may include a bayonet configuration, an internal thread, a stop configuration, or other types of rotary locking configurations. In certain embodiments, the core assembly 522 may receive any of a plurality of shrouds, each having a different morphological factor or keying configuration for mating with different types of adapters. In certain embodiments, each shroud 526 may be connected to any of a plurality of external fastening members 528, each having a different connection interface for connecting to different types of adapters.

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

[0051] The core 534 of the core assembly 522 includes an end 536 that supports a ferrule 538 (see Figure 36). It will be understood that the ferrule 538 is adapted to support the end portion of the optical fiber 539 corresponding to the optical fiber cable 524. As shown in Figures 33 and 35, the ferrule 538 is protected by a removable inner dust cap 540. The core assembly 522 also includes a retaining sleeve 542 for securing the core assembly 522 to the rear end 544 of the shroud 526. It will be understood that the shroud 526 sits on top of the core 534 and may include a key configuration 546 adapted to mate with a corresponding configuration provided within the optical fiber adapter to ensure that the optical fiber connector 520 is inserted into the optical fiber adapter at a specific rotational position. In certain examples, different shrouds with different configurations may be interchangeably mounted on top of the core 534 to provide compatibility with different types of optical fiber adapters (see, for example, U.S. Patent No. 9,733,436, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety).

[0052] A turn-and-lock connection interface may also be provided between the rear end 544 of the shroud 526 and the retaining sleeve 542. For example, the rear end 544 of the shroud 526 may include a stop configuration that interlocks with a corresponding stop configuration of the retaining sleeve 542 when the retaining sleeve 542 and the rear end 544 of the shroud 526 are locked together in the rotational direction (i.e., moved from a first rotational state in which the parts can be separated axially from each other to a second rotational state in which the parts are prevented from being separated axially from each other). The stop configuration may be of the type already described herein.

[0053] The interface may also include a snap-fit ​​configuration for holding the retaining sleeve 542 in an interlocked rotational position (e.g., a second rotational state) relative to the rear end 544 of the shroud 526. In the illustrated example, the snap-fit ​​configuration includes an elastic latch 548 (see Figure 41) provided on the shroud 526 that interlocks with a corresponding catch 550 (e.g., a stopper) of the retaining sleeve 542 (see Figure 36) when the retaining sleeve 542 is rotated relative to the shroud 526 to a retaining rotational position (e.g., a second rotational state). The engagement (e.g., latch) between the elastic latch 548 and the catch 550 prevents the retaining sleeve 542 from rotating relative to the shroud 526 so as to return from the retaining rotational position to a released rotational position (e.g., a first rotational state). When the retaining sleeve 542 is in the retaining rotational position relative to the shroud 526, it will be understood that the retaining sleeve 542 and the shroud 526 are locked together. In contrast, when the retaining sleeve 542 is in the release rotation position relative to the shroud 526, the retaining sleeve 542 and the shroud 526 can be separated from each other axially.

[0054] Referring to Figures 35 and 37-41, the elastic latch 548 in a snap-fit ​​configuration includes a release actuation portion 552 (e.g., a tab, button, or protrusion) that is exposed and accessible when the retaining sleeve 542 and shroud 526 are fitted together in the retaining rotation position (e.g., see Figure 39). The latch 548 includes an engaging portion 551 that protrudes axially from the release actuation portion 552 (see Figures 40 and 41). The engaging portion 551 moves in conjunction with the release actuation portion 552. The engaging portion 551 has a stop surface 549 (Figure 41) adapted to engage with a stop portion 550 of the retaining sleeve 542 (see Figure 36) to provide rotational locking. For example, engagement with the inclined portion of the catch 550 deflects the engaging portion 551 (and therefore the release actuation portion 552) inward to a non-latching position until the engaging portion 551 passes the stop portion 550. Next, the engaging portion 551 is deviated so that it returns to the latching position where the stop surface 549 contacts the shoulder of the stop portion 550. The release actuation portion 552 of the latch 548 may be pushed in to move the engaging portion 551 of the elastic latch 548 from the latching position to the non-latching position, and the stop surface 549 passes over the catch 550. The elastic latch 548 is preferably spring-biased toward the latching position. When the elastic latch 548 is pushed toward the non-latching position, the snap-fit ​​interface does not prevent the retaining sleeve 542 from rotating relative to the shroud 526 from the retaining rotation position to the release rotation position.

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

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

[0057] During the assembly of the fiber optic connector 520, it will be understood that the rear ends of the lanyard 532 and the outer fastening member 528 are first inserted onto the core assembly 522. Next, the shroud 526 is inserted onto the core 534 of the core assembly 522, and the retaining sleeve 542 of the core assembly 522 interlocks with the rear end 544 of the shroud 526, mechanically connecting the shroud 526 to the core assembly 524. The outer fastening member 528 then slides forward on the shroud 526, passing through a fastening member latch 580 (Figure 37) that functions to hold the outer fastening member 528 on the shroud 526. It will be understood that the outer fastening member 528 may rotate around the shroud 526. Subsequently, the front end of the lanyard 532 may be connected to the outer dust cap 530, and the outer dust cap 530 may be secured to the rest of the optical fiber connector by screwing the threaded interface of the outer fastening member 528 into the threaded interface of the outer dust cap 530. The fastening member latch 580 prevents the outer fastening member 528 from being removed from the shroud 526 without breaking the outer fastening member 528 at a predetermined break point.

[0058] Referring to Figure 45, the dust cap 530, lanyard 532, fastener 528, and shroud 526 of Figure 33 may form an assembly 531 that is pre-assembled together before connection to the core assembly 522. As shown, one end of the lanyard 532 is connected to the dust cap 530 (for example, adjacent to the front end of the dust cap), and the other end of the lanyard is connected to the outer fastener 528 (for example, adjacent to the rear end of the fastener). The front portion of the shroud 526 fits inside the dust cap 530, and the fastener 528 is mounted on the rear portion of the shroud 526. The fastener 528 connects to the dust cap 530 by a turn-and-lock connection, holding the shroud 526 inside the dust cap 530. The pre-assembled nature of the assembly 531 prevents the loss of parts and facilitates field use. In certain examples, the core assembly 522 may be connected to the shroud 526 via a turn-and-fix connection without requiring disassembly of assembly 531. For example, the core 534 of the core assembly 522 is inserted into the shroud 526 through its rear end, which is accessible from the rear end of assembly 531. Alternatively, a retaining sleeve 542 of the core assembly 522 interlocks with the rear end 544 of the shroud 526 to mechanically connect the shroud 526 to the core assembly 524. The turn-and-fix connection interface at the rear end 544 of the shroud 526 is accessible from the rear end of assembly 531 to connect with the retaining sleeve 542. In other examples, at least partial disassembly of assembly 531 may be required to connect to the core assembly 522.

[0059] It will be understood that the first and second stop configurations disclosed herein provide two distinct interlock functions when in a coupled rotational state. One of the interlock functions provides an interlock feature that interlocks to resist axial movement between two components that are desirable to be coupled together. For example, an axial interlock feature interlocks to prevent a first component of the components from being axially disengaged or pulled out from a second component. A second interlock feature may be provided by a snap-fit ​​feature that functions to prevent rotational movement between the two components when the two components are in a coupled rotational state. The second interlock feature functions to prevent or resist rotation of the components from a coupled rotational state in which the components are axially fixed together to an uncoupled rotational state in which the two components can be axially separated from each other. Components may include fiber optic connectors, connector retaining sleeves, fiber optic adapters, dust caps, retaining sleeves, rotatable fastening elements, connector components, connector shrouds, and the like. The following are also included in the nature of this disclosure: [Aspect 1] A connection interface that turns and is fixed in place. It comprises first and second components that can be inserted together axially and are aligned along the axis when inserted together axially, The first component includes a rotary fixing latch, and the first component also includes a first stopping configuration which includes a first stopping surface facing a first axial direction along the axis and a second stopping surface facing a second axial direction along the axis, wherein the first axial direction is opposite to the second axial direction, and the first component further includes a third stopping surface which faces a first rotational direction about the axis. The second component includes a rotating fixing catch, and the second component also includes a second stopping configuration which includes a fourth stopping surface facing the second axial direction, a fifth stopping surface facing the first axial direction, and a sixth stopping surface facing the second rotational direction about the axis, opposite to the first rotational direction. The connecting interface that is turned and fixed is positionable in a first rotational state in which the first stop surface faces the fourth stop surface, the second stop surface is offset in the rotational direction from the fifth stop surface, and the third stop surface is offset in the rotational direction from the sixth stop surface by a rotation angle of 360 degrees or less. The connecting interface that is turned and fixed is positionable in a second rotational state in which the first stop surface faces the fourth stop surface, the second stop surface faces the fifth stop surface, and the third stop surface faces and is adjacent to the sixth stop surface. The connecting interface that is turned and fixed is movable from the first rotational state to the second rotational state by rotating the first and second components relative to each other through the rotational angle, The rotating fixing latch and the rotating fixing catch, when the connecting interface to be turned and fixed is in the second rotating state, face each other in the circumferential direction and resist the rotating interface to be turned and fixed from the second rotating state to the first rotating state. Contact between the rotary fixing latch and the rotary fixing catch elastically bends the rotary fixing latch from the fixing position to a clearance position when the turn-and-fix connection interface is moved from the first rotational state to the second rotational state, allowing the rotary fixing latch and the rotary fixing catch to move through each other in the rotational direction, and the rotary fixing latch elastically returns to the fixing position after the rotary fixing latch and the rotary fixing catch have moved through each other, thereby resisting the turn-and-fix connection interface from rotating from the second rotational state to the first rotational state. [Aspect 2] A turn-and-fix connection interface in which the first component is an optical fiber adapter or dust cap, and the second component is a fastening member of an optical fiber connector. [Aspect 3] A turn-and-fix connection interface according to embodiment 1 or 2, wherein the rotating fixing latch includes a beam having first and second ends fixed to the main body of the first component, and the length of the beam extends across an open space defined between the beam and the main body. [Aspect 4] The turn-and-fix connection interface according to embodiment 3, wherein the beam includes a first side facing the first rotation direction and a second side facing the second rotation direction, the rotation-fixing catch includes an inclined surface facing the second rotation direction and a seventh stop surface facing the first rotation direction, the inclined surface engages with the first side to move the beam from the fixing position to the clearance position, and the seventh stop surface faces the second side to resist the turn-and-fix interface rotating from the second rotation state to the first rotation state. [Aspect 5] A turn-and-fix connection interface according to embodiment 1 or 2, wherein the first component includes at least one first triangular projection having a first side defining the second stop surface and a second side defining the third stop surface, and the second component includes at least one recess that is triangular and has at least a portion defined by the first side defining the fifth stop surface and the second side defining the sixth stop surface. [Aspect 6] The turn-and-fix connection interface according to embodiment 5, wherein the second stop surface and the fifth stop surface are oriented on a reference plane perpendicular to the axis. [Aspect 7] The turning and fixing connection interface according to embodiment 6, wherein the first triangular projection includes a corner facing the first axial direction. [Aspect 8] A turn-and-fix connection interface according to embodiment 1, wherein the rotating fixing latch is required to be damaged in order to rotate the turn-and-fix interface from a second rotational state to a first rotational state. [Aspect 9] A fiber optic assembly, An optical fiber connector having a connector end, wherein the optical fiber connector defines an axis, the optical fiber connector supports an optical fiber having a fiber end adjacent to the connector end, and the optical fiber connector further includes a retaining sleeve, An optical fiber assembly comprising: a cap fitted on the connector end to protect the fiber end, wherein the cap is fixed to the optical fiber connector by a retaining sleeve, the retaining sleeve and the cap are axially insertable together and, when inserted together, rotatable relative to each other between a first rotational state and a second rotational state, the cap is axially removable from the optical fiber connector when the retaining sleeve and the cap are in the first rotational state, the cap is not axially removable from the optical fiber connector when the retaining sleeve and the cap are in the second rotational state, and the cap and the retaining sleeve include a snap-fit ​​interface for holding the cap and the retaining sleeve in the second rotational state, the snap-fit ​​interface requiring to be damaged in order to move the retaining sleeve and the cap from the second rotational state to the first rotational state. [Aspect 10] The optical fiber assembly according to embodiment 9, wherein the snap-fit ​​connection is required to be broken in order to move the retaining sleeve and the cap from the second rotational state to the first rotational state. [Aspect 11] A fiber optic connector, A connector body that defines the connector axis, A retaining sleeve for fixing the optical fiber connector to an optical fiber adapter, wherein the retaining sleeve is mounted on the connector body and is rotatable relative to the connector body about the axis, and the retaining sleeve includes an in-sleeve stop configuration adapted to interface with a corresponding stop configuration of the optical fiber adapter, the stop configuration of the retaining sleeve includes axial stop surfaces facing first and second axial directions opposite to each other along the connector axis, and the stop configuration of the retaining sleeve also includes rotation stop surfaces facing first and second rotation directions opposite to each other about the connector axis. [Aspect 12] The optical fiber connector according to embodiment 11, wherein the stop configuration is triangular and includes at least a recess having at least a portion defined by a first side defining a first axial stop surface among the axial stop surfaces and a second side defining a first rotation stop surface among the rotation stop surfaces. [Aspect 13] The optical fiber connector according to embodiment 12, wherein the stop configuration includes at least one rotating fixing catch that defines a second rotating stop surface among the rotating stop surfaces and also includes an inclined surface that does not face the second rotating stop surface among the rotating stop surfaces. [Aspect 14] The optical fiber connector according to embodiment 13, wherein the recess includes an access gap, and the access gap tapers so as it extends toward the open end of the retaining sleeve. [Aspect 15] The optical fiber connector according to embodiment 14, wherein the first axial stop surface among the axial stop surfaces does not face the open end of the retaining sleeve and is oriented along a reference plane perpendicular to the connector axis. [Aspect 16] The optical fiber connector according to embodiment 15, wherein the second axial stop surface among the axial stop surfaces faces toward the open end of the retaining sleeve and is defined by an internal shoulder extending in a circumferential orientation within the retaining sleeve. [Aspect 17] A fiber optic adapter, An optical fiber adapter comprising an adapter body defining an adapter axis, wherein the optical adapter body includes a stop configuration integrated with the outside of the adapter body for interface with a corresponding stop configuration of an optical fiber connector, the stop configuration of the adapter body includes axial stop surfaces facing first and second axial directions opposite to each other along the adapter axis, and the stop configuration of the adapter body also includes rotational stop surfaces facing first and second rotational directions opposite to each other about the adapter axis. [Aspect 18] The optical fiber adapter according to embodiment 17, further comprising an elastic rotating fixing latch. [Aspect 19] The optical fiber adapter according to embodiment 18, wherein the rotating fixing latch includes a beam having first and second ends fixed to the adapter body, and the length of the beam extends across an open space defined between the beam and the adapter body. [Aspect 20] The optical fiber adapter according to embodiment 19, wherein the stop configuration includes at least one triangular projection having a first side that defines a first axial stop surface among the axial stop surfaces and a second side that defines a first rotation stop surface among the rotation stop surfaces, the second rotation stop surface among the rotation stop surfaces being defined by the side of the beam. [Aspect 21] The optical fiber adapter according to embodiment 20, wherein the corner of the at least one triangular projection faces outward in the axial direction from the adapter body, and the first side of the at least one triangular projection faces inward in the axial direction toward the adapter body and is oriented along a reference plane perpendicular to the adapter axis. [Aspect 22] The rotating connection interface according to embodiment 1, wherein the rotation angle is 180 degrees or less. [Aspect 23] The turning and fixing connection interface according to embodiment 1, wherein the rotation angle is 90 degrees or less. [Aspect 24] A connection interface that turns and is fixed in place. The system comprises a first component defining a first axis and a second component defining a second axis, wherein the first and second components are configured to be inserted together axially and mechanically connected together when the first and second components are aligned in the same axial direction, the first component includes a first stop configuration, and the second component includes a second stop configuration. The first and second components are configured to rotate relative to each other about the first and second axes between the first and second rotational states when the first and second components are inserted together axially, and the first and second stop configurations are configured to limit the range of rotational movement between the first and second rotational states, and the first and second stop configurations are configured to allow the first and second components to separate axially from each other when the first and second components are in the first rotational state, and to prevent the first and second components from separating axially from each other when the first and second components are in the second rotational state. A turn-and-fix connection interface in which the first and second components include a snap-fit ​​configuration for resisting movement of the first and second components from the second rotational state to the first rotational state. [Aspect 25] The turn-and-fix connection interface according to embodiment 24, wherein the first and second stop configurations each include a triangular projection and a recess having at least a portion that is triangular. [Aspect 26] The turning and fixing connection interface according to embodiment 25, wherein the triangular projection of the first stop configuration is spaced apart in the circumferential direction with respect to the first axis, and the recess of the second stop configuration is spaced apart in the circumferential direction with respect to the second axis. [Aspect 27] The turn-and-fix interface according to embodiment 26, wherein the triangular projection has an angle facing a first axial direction, and the recess has an access gap that tapers to receive the triangular projection when the first and second components are inserted together in the axial direction. [Aspect 28] The interface for turning and fixing according to embodiment 26, wherein the triangular projection each includes a first side portion defining an axial stopping surface and a second side portion defining a rotational stopping surface. [Aspect 29] A turn-and-fix interface according to any one of embodiments 24 to 28, wherein the snap-fit ​​configuration includes a flexible beam latch integrated with a first component having a fixed end; an inclined surface for bending the flexible beam latch to a clearance position, thereby allowing the first and second components to rotate from a first rotational state to a second rotational state; and a catch integrated with the second component having a retaining surface for engaging the flexible beam latch to resist the first and second components rotating from a second rotational state to a first rotational state. [Aspect 30] A turn-and-fix interface according to any one of embodiments 24 to 29, wherein the snap-fit ​​configuration requires to be broken in order to move the first and second components from a second rotational state to a first rotational state. [Aspect 31] The first and second components are a turn-and-fix interface according to any one of embodiments 24 to 30, wherein the first and second components do not move axially relative to each other when they are rotated between the first and second rotational states. [Aspect 32] A turn-and-fix interface according to any one of embodiments 24 to 30, wherein the snap-fit ​​configuration interlocks without requiring axial movement between the first and second components. [Aspect 33] A turn-and-fix interface according to any one of embodiments 24 to 28, wherein the snap-fit ​​configuration includes a flexible beam latch integrated with a first component, an inclined surface for bending the flexible beam latch to a clearance position to allow the first and second components to rotate from a first rotational state to a second rotational state, and a catch integrated with the second component having a retaining surface for engaging with the flexible beam latch to resist the first and second components rotating from a second rotational state to a first rotational state. [Aspect 34] The interface for turning and fixing according to embodiment 33, wherein the flexible beam latch has a cantilever configuration. [Aspect 35] The turn-and-fix interface according to embodiment 33, wherein the flexible beam latch has a length that extends in a direction transverse to the direction of rotation between the first and second rotation states. [Aspect 36] The turn-and-fix interface according to embodiment 33, wherein the flexible beam latch has a length that extends in a direction parallel to the direction of rotation between the first and second rotation states. [Aspect 37] The interface for turning and fixing according to embodiment 36, wherein the flexible beam latch has a cantilever configuration. [Aspect 38] The turn-and-fix interface according to embodiment 37, wherein the flexible beam latch includes an axial offset portion adjacent to the free end of the flexible beam latch, which is adapted to engage with the inclined surface when the first and second components are rotated from a first rotational state to a second rotational state. [Aspect 39] The interface to be turned and fixed according to embodiment 38, wherein the axial offset portion is inclined. [Aspect 40] A turn-and-fix interface according to any one of embodiments 31 to 39, wherein the snap-fit ​​configuration requires to be broken in order to move the first and second components from the second rotational state to the first rotational state. [Aspect 41] A turn-and-fix interface according to any one of embodiments 24 to 30, wherein the snap-fit ​​configuration does not require the first and second components to be broken in order to move them from a second rotational state to a first rotational state. [Aspect 42] The turn-and-fix interface according to embodiment 41, further comprising a retaining collar non-rotatably mounted on one of the first and second components, wherein the retaining collar is slidable from a first position that prevents relative rotation between the first and second components, and from a second position that allows rotation between the first and second components. [Aspect 43] The turning and fixing interface according to embodiment 42, wherein the retaining collar is a spring biased toward the first position. [Aspect 44] The turn-and-fix interface according to embodiment 24, wherein at least one of the first and second stop configurations includes a tapered introduction for moving the first and second components toward a fully axially inserted position as the first and second components rotate from a first rotational state to a second rotational state. [Aspect 45] A fiber optic connector, A core assembly including a core that supports the ferrule, A shroud mounted on the aforementioned core assembly, The core assembly includes a retaining sleeve that interlocks with the shroud in the rotational direction and connects the shroud to the core assembly, wherein the retaining sleeve is rotatable relative to the shroud between a retaining rotation position and a release rotation position. A snap-fit ​​interface for holding the retaining sleeve in the retaining rotation position relative to the shroud, the snap-fit ​​interface includes a flexible retaining latch movable between a latch position, which is adapted to hold the retaining sleeve in the retaining rotation position, and a release position, which allows the retaining sleeve to rotate from the retaining rotation position to the release rotation position, wherein the flexible retaining latch is biased toward the latch position and includes a release actuation portion that allows the flexible retaining latch to be manually moved from the latch position to the release position while the retaining sleeve is in the retaining rotation position, An optical fiber connector comprising an outer fastening member mounted on the shroud, the outer fastening member having a turn-and-fix interface adapted to mate with a dust cap, an optical fiber adapter, or a corresponding interface of another optical fiber connector, and the outer fastening member blocking access to the release mechanism of the flexible retaining latch when mounted on the shroud. [Aspect 46] The optical fiber connector according to embodiment 45, wherein the outer fastening member is required to be broken to remove the outer fastening member from the shroud and provide access to the release operating portion. [Aspect 47] The optical fiber connector according to embodiment 46, wherein the outer fastening member includes a predetermined fracture location. [Aspect 48] The optical fiber connector according to embodiment 47, wherein the predetermined fracture location includes a predetermined fracture line and a notch for receiving a lever tool. [Aspect 49] The optical fiber connector according to embodiment 48, further comprising an outer dust cap held on at least a portion of the core assembly and the shroud by the outer fastening member, wherein the lever tool is integrated with the outer dust cap. [Aspect 50] An assembly for connecting to a core assembly, wherein the assembly is Dust cap and The shroud received within the dust cap, An outer fastening member that turns and secures to the dust cap is fixed to the dust cap and holds the shroud inside the dust cap, A lanyard having one end connected to the dust cap and the other end connected to the outer, turn-and-fix fastening member, An assembly in which the assembly is pre-assembled before being connected to the core assembly. [Aspect 51] The assembly according to embodiment 50, wherein the assembly is configured such that the core assembly can be connected to the shroud without requiring disassembly of the assembly.

Claims

1. A fiber optic connector, A core assembly including a ferrule and core that support an optical fiber, A retaining sleeve mounted on the core assembly, the retaining sleeve includes a first stop configuration and a first snap-fit ​​configuration for a connecting interface that turns and secures, A shroud mounted on the core of the core assembly, the shroud comprising a second stop configuration and a second snap-fit ​​configuration of a connecting interface that turns and fixes, wherein the second stop configuration is configured to engage with the first stop configuration on the retaining sleeve to prevent axial movement of the shroud relative to the retaining sleeve in a connected rotational position, and the second snap-fit ​​configuration is configured to interlock with the first snap-fit ​​configuration on the retaining sleeve to prevent rotation of the shroud relative to the retaining sleeve from the connected rotational position, An outer fastening member mounted on the shroud, wherein the outer fastening member is configured to prevent the first snap-fit ​​configuration from being removed from the second snap-fit ​​configuration when the outer fastening member is mounted on the shroud, In order to separate the first snap-fit ​​configuration from the second snap-fit ​​configuration, it is necessary to break the outer fastening member. The outer fastening member includes a predetermined fracture location, An optical fiber connector in which the predetermined break location includes a predetermined break line and a notch for receiving a lever tool.

2. The optical fiber connector according to claim 1, further comprising a dust cap held on at least a portion of the core assembly and the shroud.

3. The optical fiber connector according to claim 2, wherein the lever tool is integrated with the dust cap.

4. The optical fiber connector according to claim 2, further comprising a lanyard for connecting the dust cap to the outer fastening member.

5. A fiber optic connector, A core assembly including a core that supports the ferrule, A shroud mounted on the aforementioned core assembly, The core assembly includes a retaining sleeve that interlocks with the shroud in the rotational direction and connects the shroud to the core assembly, wherein the retaining sleeve is rotatable relative to the shroud between a retaining rotation position and a release rotation position. A snap-fit ​​interface for holding the retaining sleeve in the retaining rotation position relative to the shroud, the snap-fit ​​interface includes a flexible retaining latch movable between a latch position, which is adapted to hold the retaining sleeve in the retaining rotation position, and a release position, which allows the retaining sleeve to rotate from the retaining rotation position to the release rotation position, wherein the flexible retaining latch is biased toward the latch position and includes a release actuation portion that allows the flexible retaining latch to be manually moved from the latch position to the release position while the retaining sleeve is in the retaining rotation position, An outer fastening member mounted on the shroud, the outer fastening member having a turn-and-fix interface adapted to engage with a corresponding interface of a dust cap, fiber optic adapter, or another fiber optic connector, and the outer fastening member blocking access to the release mechanism of the flexible retaining latch when mounted on the shroud, A fiber optic connector wherein the outer fastening member is required to be broken to remove the outer fastening member from the shroud and provide access to the release operating portion.

6. The optical fiber connector according to claim 5, wherein the outer fastening member includes a predetermined fracture location.

7. The optical fiber connector according to claim 6, wherein the predetermined fracture location includes a predetermined fracture line and a notch for receiving a lever tool.

8. The optical fiber connector according to claim 7, further comprising an outer dust cap held on at least a portion of the core assembly and the shroud by the outer fastening member, wherein the lever tool is integrated with the outer dust cap.

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