Hardened fiber optic connection system

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to hardened fiber optic adapters for connecting hardened fiber optic connectors in an in-line configuration. In certain examples, the hardened fiber optic connectors are sealed relative to the hardened fiber optic adapter when the hardened fiber optic connectors are installed within connector ports of the hardened fiber optic adapter.

Description

[0001] HARDENED FIBER OPTIC CONNECTION SYSTEM

[0002] Cross-Reference To Related Applications

[0003] This application is being filed on July 28, 2025, as a PCT International Patent Application and claims benefit of and priority to U.S Provisional Application 63 / 678,292, filed on August 1, 2024, and also claims benefit of and priority to U.S Provisional Application 63 / 789,549, filed on April 16, 2025, the disclosures of which are incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[0004] Technical Field

[0005] The present disclosure relates to fiber optic data transmission, and more particularly to fiber optic connection systems such as hardened fiber optic connection systems.

[0006] Background

[0007] Fiber optic communication systems are becoming prevalent in part because service providers want to deliver high bandwidth communication capabilities (e.g., data and voice) to customers. Fiber optic communication systems employ a network of fiber optic cables to transmit large volumes of data and voice signals over relatively long distances. Optical fiber connectors are an important part of most fiber optic communication systems. Fiber optic connectors allow two optical fibers to be quickly optically connected without requiring a splice. Fiber optic connectors can be used to optically interconnect two lengths of optical fiber. Fiber optic connectors can also be used to interconnect lengths of optical fiber to passive and active equipment.

[0008] A typical fiber optic connector includes a ferrule assembly supported at a distal end of a connector housing. A spring is used to bias the ferrule assembly in a distal direction relative to the connector housing. The ferrule functions to support an end portion of at least one optical fiber (in the case of a multi-fiber ferrule, the ends of multiple fibers are supported). The ferrule has a distal end face at which a polished end of the optical fiber is located. When two fiber optic connectors are interconnected, the distal end faces of the ferrules abut one another, and the ferrules are forced proximally relative to their respective connector housings against the bias of their respective springs. With the fiber optic connectors connected, their respective optical fibers are coaxially aligned such that the end faces of the optical fibers directly oppose one another. In this way, an optical signal can be transmitted from optical fiber to optical fiber through the aligned end faces of the optical fibers. For many fiber optic connector styles, alignment between two fiber optic connectors is provided through the use of an intermediate fiber optic adapter.

[0009] Ruggedized (i.e., hardened) fiber optic connection systems include fiber optic connectors and fiber optic adapters suitable for outside environmental use. These types of systems are typically environmentally sealed and include robust fastening arrangements suitable for withstanding relatively large pull loading and side loading. Example ruggedized fiber optic connection systems are disclosed by US. Patent Nos. 7,467,896; 7,744,288 and 8,556,520. Example connection systems for providing in-line connections between hardened connectors are disclosed by US. Patent Nos 9,678,282 and 9,739,951.

[0010] It will be appreciated that a number of different types of ruggedized fiber optic connectors are available for outside environmental use. International Publication No. WO2015 / 028433 discloses a system for making fiber optic connectors in which a number of different ruggedized outer assemblies having different formfactors or configurations can be selectively mounted on a pre-terminated cable such that the pre-terminated cable can be customized to be compatible with a particular style or type of fiber optic connector or fiber optic adapter. Other systems are disclosed by PCT International Publication Nos. W02021 / 041305 and WO2020 / 236512.

[0011] Summary

[0012] Aspects of the present disclosure relate to connection devices and systems for interconnecting hardened fiber optic connectors in an in-line and sealed manner.

[0013] A variety of additional inventive aspects will be set forth in the description that follows. The inventive aspects can relate to individual features and to combinations of features. It is to be understood that both the forgoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the broad inventive concepts upon which the examples disclosed herein are based. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0014] Figure 1 depicts a hardened fiber optic adapter in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure;

[0015] Figure 2 depicts the hardened fiber optic adapter of Figure 1 with a first hardened fiber optic connector installed within a first port of the hardened fiber optic adapter;

[0016] Figure 3 depicts the hardened fiber optic adapter of Figure 1 with the first hardened fiber optic connector installed within the first port of the hardened fiber optic adapter and a second hardened fiber optic connector installed within a second port of the hardened fiber optic adapter;

[0017] Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view of the hardened fiber optic adapter of Figure 1;

[0018] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view taken longitudinally through the hardened fiber optic adapter of Figure 1;

[0019] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view taken longitudinally through the assembly of Figure 3;

[0020] Figure 7 depicts another hardened fiber optic adapter in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure;

[0021] Figure 8 is an exploded view of the hardened fiber optic adapter of Figure 7;

[0022] Figure 9 is a is a cross-sectional view taken longitudinally through the hardened fiber optic adapter of Figure 7;

[0023] Figure 10 depicts another hardened fiber optic adapter in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure;

[0024] Figure 11 is an outer end view of an adapter housing piece of the hardened fiber optic adapter of Figure 10;

[0025] Figure 12 in an inner end view of the adapter housing piece of Figure 11;

[0026] Figure 13 is another inner end view of the adapter housing piece of Figure 12;

[0027] Figure 14 is a perspective view of an inner assembly of the hardened fiber optic adapter of Figure 10; Figure 15 is a perspective view of a first component of the inner assembly of Figure 14;

[0028] Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view taken longitudinally through the hardened fiber optic adapter of Figure 10;

[0029] Figure 17 is a perspective view of a and other hardened fiber-optic adapters in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure;

[0030] Figure 18 is an exploded view of the hardened fiber-optic adapter of Figure 17;

[0031] Figure 19 is a front view of one of the port-defining bodies of the hardened fiber-optic adapter of Figure 17;

[0032] Figure 20 is a rear view of the port-defining body of Figure 19;

[0033] Figure 21 is a bottom view of the port-defining body of Figure 19;

[0034] Figure 22 is a top view of the port-defining body of Figure 19;

[0035] Figure 23 is an end view of a port-defining end of the port-defining body of Figure 19;

[0036] Figure 24 is an end view of a snap-fit connection end of the portdefining body of Figure 19;

[0037] Figure 25 is a perspective view of the snap-fit connection end of the port-defining body of Figure 19;

[0038] Figure 26 is another perspective view of the snap-fit connection end of the port-defining body of Figure 19;

[0039] Figure 27 is a further perspective view of the snap-fit connection end of the port-defining body of Figure 19;

[0040] Figure 28 is another perspective view of the snap-fit connection end of the port-defining body of Figure 19;

[0041] Figure 29 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the port-defining body of Figure 19; and

[0042] Figure 30 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the hardened fiberoptic adapter of Figures 17 and 18.

[0043] Detailed Description

[0044] Figure 1 depicts a hardened fiber optic adapter 100 in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. The hardened fiber optic adapter 100 includes an adapter housing sleeve 102, a first port-defining body 104, and a second portdefining body 106.

[0045] Adapter housing sleeve 102 is a sleeve configured to receive the first port-defining body 104 and the second port-defining body 106. Adapter housing sleeve 102 has a length that extends along an adapter axis 103, in a longitudinal orientation of the hardened fiber optic adapter 100. The adapter housing sleeve 102 extends between a first sleeve end 105 and an opposite second sleeve end 107.

[0046] First port-defining body 104 is configured to connect to the first sleeve end 105 of the adapter housing sleeve 102. In an embodiment, the first port-defining body 104 can connect to the adapter housing sleeve 102, for example by a snap-fit connection. Suitable features for providing the snap-fit connection can be seen in Figures 4-6 and are described below. The first port-defining body 104 defines a first connector port 108, visible in Figures 4-6. The first connector port 108 can be adapted for receiving hardened fiber optic connectors, for example by having suitable shape, size, or the like.

[0047] Second port-defining body 106 is configured to connect to the second sleeve end 107 of the adapter housing sleeve 102, for example by a threaded connection. The respective threading on the second port-defining body 106 and the adapter housing sleeve 102 can be seen in Figures 4-6. The second port-defining body 106 defines a second connector port 110, visible in Figures 4-6. The second connector port 110 can be adapted for receiving hardened fiber optic connectors, for example by having suitable shape, size, or the like.

[0048] In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, dust caps 112 can be provided.

[0049] Each of dust caps 112 can be attached to a respective one of the first port-defining body 104 and second port-defining body 106 so as to cover the respective first connector port 108 or second connector port 110. A rotational interlock can be included in the dust cap 112 to secure the attachment of the dust cap 112 to the respective port-defining body by interfacing with one or more fixed exterior interlocks, for example as described below and shown in Figure 4. In an embodiment, a lanyard 114 can be provided, the lanyard 114 tethering the dust cap 112 to the respective one of the first port-defining body 104 or second port-defining body 106. In an embodiment, a locking sleeve 116 can be provided on one or both of the first port-defining body 104 and the second portdefining body 106. The locking sleeves 116 can be configured to be slidable along the adapter axis relative the respective first port-defining body 104 or second port-defining body 106.

[0050] Figure 2 depicts the hardened fiber optic adapter of Figure 1 with a first hardened fiber optic connector 118 installed within the port 108 provided by the first port-defining body 104 of the hardened fiber optic adapter 100. In the view shown in Figure 2, the dust cap 112 has been removed from the first connector port 108 of the first port-defining body 104. The first hardened fiber optic connector 118 is attached to the first connector port 108 of the first port-defining body 104. A rotational interlock can be provided on the first hardened fiber optic connector 118 allow the first hardened fiber optic connector 118 to be secured to the respective port, for example by interfacing with one or more fixed exterior interlocks, such as those described below and shown in Figure 6.

[0051] Figure 3 depicts the hardened fiber optic adapter of Figure 1 with the first hardened fiber optic connector 118 installed within the first port of the hardened fiber optic adapter and a second hardened fiber optic connector 120 installed within a second port of the hardened fiber optic adapter. In the view shown in Figure 3, the dust cap 112 has been removed from the second connector port 110 of the second portdefining body 106. The second hardened fiber optic connector 120 is attached to the second connector port 110 of the second port-defining body 106. A rotational interlock can be provided on the second hardened fiber optic connector 120 allow the second hardened fiber optic connector 120 to be secured to the respective port, for example by interfacing with one or more fixed exterior interlocks, such as those described below and shown in Figure 6.

[0052] Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view of the hardened fiber optic adapter of Figure 1. In the exploded view of Figure 4, resilient latching arms 122 provided on first port-defining body 104 can be seen. Threading 124 provided on second port-defining body 106 can also be seen in the exploded view of Figure 4. The hardened fiber optic connector 100 further includes a ferrule alignment sleeve 126.

[0053] Resilient latching arms 122 can be provided on first port-defining body 104. Resilient latching arms 122 can be configured to engage with one or more snap-fit catches formed in the adapter housing sleeve 102, for example as shown in Figures 5 and 6 and described below. Threading 124 can be provided on at least a portion of second portdefining body 106 configured to be received in the adapter housing sleeve 102. The threading 124 can be configured to interface with corresponding threading formed on a portion of the inner surface of the adapter housing sleeve 102, for example as shown in Figures 5 and 6 and described below. In an embodiment, the threading 124 can be interrupted, for example as shown in Figure 4.

[0054] Ferrule alignment sleeve 126 is configured to co-axially align the respective ferrules of the first and second hardened fiber optic connectors 118, 120 when the hardened fiber optic connectors are secured within the first and second connector ports 108, 110. Ferrule alignment sleeve 126 can be positioned within the adapter housing sleeve and aligned along the adapter axis. The first connector port 108, the second connector port 110, and the ferrule alignment sleeve 126 can be co-axially aligned.

[0055] In an embodiment, one or both of first and second port-defining bodies 104, 106 can include fixed exterior interlocks 128. In an embodiment, fixed exterior interlocks 128 can be provided at outer surfaces of the respective port-defining body, at or near where the respective connector port is formed. The fixed exterior interlocks 128 can be configured to engage with one or more rotational interlocks of a dust cap 112 or rotational interlocks of the first and second hardened fiber optic connectors 118, 120. Examples of rotational interlocks of the dust caps 112 are shown in Figure 5 and described below. Examples of the rotational interlocks of the first and second hardened fiber optic connectors 118, 120 are shown in Figure 6 and described below. In an embodiment, the fixed exterior interlocks 128 are configured to cooperate with the rotational interlocks of the dust cap 112, the first fiber optic connector 118, or the second fiber optic connector 120 so as to define quarter-turn coupling interfaces with the first and second connector ports 108, 110.

[0056] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view taken longitudinally through the hardened fiber optic adapter of Figure 1. In the sectional view of Figure 5, first seal 130 and second seal 132 can be seen within hardened fiber optic adapter 100. Snap-fit catch 134 can be seen on the adapter housing sleeve 102. Threading 136 can be seen on an internal surface of the adapter housing sleeve 102. The second port-defining body 106 can define a sleeve holder 138. First seal 130 is configured to form a seal between the first port-defining body 104 and the adapter housing sleeve 102. In an embodiment, the first seal 130 is configured to form a radial seal. First seal 130 can be compressed in a radial direction thereof, being compressed between an inner surface of adapter housing sleeve 102 and the first port-defining body 104. In an embodiment, the first port-defining body 104 can include a groove or channel configured to at least partially receive the first seal 130.

[0057] Second seal 132 is configured to form a seal between the second portdefining body 106 and the adapter housing sleeve 102. In an embodiment, the second seal 132 is configured to form an axial seal, being compressed in an axial direction of the hardened fiber optic adapter 100. In an embodiment, the second seal 132 can be compressed in the axial direction when the second port-defining body 106 is joined to the adapter housing sleeve 102 by the interface of the corresponding threading 124 and 136 respectively provided on the second port-defining body 106 and the adapter housing sleeve 102. In an embodiment, the second seal 132 can be compressed in the axial direction between a first shoulder formed in the second port-defining body 106 and a second shoulder formed in the adapter housing sleeve 102, where the second shoulder is positioned opposite the first shoulder.

[0058] In an embodiment, the first seal 130 and the second seal 132 can have different dimensions. In an embodiment, the first seal 130 has a first outer diameter and the second seal 132 has a second outer diameter, different from the first outer diameter. In an embodiment, the first outer diameter is smaller than the second outer diameter.

[0059] Sleeve holder 138 is configured to support the ferrule alignment sleeve 126. The sleeve holder 138 can define a bore configured to receive the ferrule alignment sleeve 126. The sleeve holder 138 can be unitarily formed with the second port-defining body 106.

[0060] In the sectional view of Figure 5, the rotational interfaces 140 of dust caps 112 can be seen. The rotational interfaces 140 are configured to engage with features of the first and second port-defining bodies 104, 106, such as the fixed exterior interlocks 128 described above and shown in Figure 4, such that the dust caps 112 can be attached to or removed from the first connector port 108 or the second connector port 110 by rotation of the respective dust cap 112.

[0061] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view taken longitudinally through the assembly of Figure 3. In the sectional view of Figure 6, the first and second hardened fiber optic connectors 118, 120 can be seen to include respective rotational interlock interfaces 142. The first and second hardened fiber optic connectors 118, 120 can further include respective exterior seals 144. rotational interlock interfaces 142 are configured to secure the first and second hardened fiber optic connectors 118, 120 to the respective first and second connector ports 108, 110. For example, the rotational interlock interfaces 142 can interface with the fixed exterior interlocks 128 provided on the respective first portdefining body 104 or the second port-defining body 106 so as to secure the hardened fiber optic connector to the respective connector port. The rotational interlock interfaces 142 of the hardened fiber optic connectors 118, 120 can include rotational couplers rotationally mounted on plug bodies of the hardened fiber optic connectors. In an embodiment, the rotational interlock interfaces 142 and the corresponding fixed exterior interlocks 128 cooperate to define quarter-turn coupling interfaces for securing the hardened fiber optic connectors with the first and second connector ports. Nonlimiting examples of quarter-turn rotational interlocks are provided in PCT International Publication Nos. W02021 / 041305 and WO2020 / 236512, which are herein incorporated by reference in their entirety. In embodiments, other suitable coupling interfaces can be used, with suitable features for the coupling interface being provided on the first and second port-defining bodies 104, 106. Non-limiting examples of such coupling interfaces include threaded interfaces, bayonet style coupling interfaces, and the like.

[0062] Exterior seals 144 can be included with the first and second hardened fiber optic connectors 118, 120. The exterior seals 144 can be configured to form a seal against sealing surfaces located within the first and second connector ports 108, 110. Exterior seals 144 can be any suitable seal member for forming the seal between the first and second hardened fiber optic connectors 118, 120 and the sealing surfaces located within the first and second connector ports 108, 110, such as, as a non-limiting example, an O-ring.

[0063] Figure 7 depicts another hardened fiber optic adapter 200 in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. Hardened fiber optic adapter 200 includes first port-defining body 202 and second port-defining body 204. First port-defining body 202 defines a first connector port 206. Second port-defining body 204 defines a second connector port 208. The first and second port-defining bodies 202, 204 can be interconnected by one or more snap-fit interfaces. When the first and second portdefining bodies 202, 204 are interconnected, the first and second connector ports can co-axially align along an adapter axis 203 extending in a longitudinal orientation of the hardened fiber optic adapter 200. In an embodiment, the first and second port-defining bodies 202, 204 have identical mechanical features.

[0064] First connector port 206 and second connector port 208 are each configured to receive hardened fiber optic connectors, such as the first and second hardened fiber optic connectors 118, 120 as described above and shown in Figures 2, 3, and 6. Hardened fiber optic connectors can be connected to the first and second portdefining bodies 202, 204 by any suitable connection, such as fixed exterior interlocks such as the fixed exterior interlocks 128 described above and shown in Figure 4. As depicted at FIG. 7, the ports 206, 208 include the fixed exterior interlocks 128 (depicted as tum-to-engage interfaces adapted to engage with rotational interlock interfaces 142 of hardened fiber optic connectors 118, 120). As described above, the connectors 118, 120 have exterior seals 144 adapted to provide sealing (e.g., radial sealing) within the ports 206, 208. Locking sleeve 116 is provided adjacent the interlock 128 of the port 208. The locking sleeve 116 can be axial slid back and forth between a first position and a second axial position. The sleeve 116 allows rotation of the rotational interlock interfaces 142 relative to the interlock 128 to allow for rotational engagement and disengagement between the coupler 118 and the interface 142 when in the first axial position. The sleeve 116 interferes with rotation of the rotational interlock interfaces 142 with respect to the interlock 128 when in the second axial position to prevent the rotational interlock interfaces 142 from unintentionally being rotated relative to the interlock 128 from an engaged state to a non-engaged state. Locking sleeve 117 is provided adjacent the interlock 128 of the port 206. Similar to the sleeve 116, the sleeve 117 is moveable from the first to the second axial position. However, the sleeve 117 is designed to be permanently secured in the second axial position once moved thereto to prevent a connector installed therein (e.g., connector 118) from being disengaged from the port 206.

[0065] Figure 8 is an exploded view of the hardened fiber optic adapter of Figure 7. In the exploded view of Figure 8, male snap-fit features 210 and female snap- fit features 212 can be seen. Additionally, seal 214 can be included in the hardened fiber optic adapter 200. Each of first and second port-defining bodies 202, 204 can include male snap-fit features 210. The male snap-fit features 210 can each include one or more resilient latching arms, including a latching projection at a distal end thereof. The latching projection can be configured to engage with a catch 211 provided on the corresponding female snap-fit feature 212. A plurality of the male snap-fit features 210 can be distributed around a perimeter of the respective first port-defining body 202 and / or the second port-defining body 204. In an embodiment, the male snap-fit features 210 can be provided in pairs of the resilient latching arms, separated by a gap, with the pairs of resilient latching arms being distributed around the perimeter of the respective first port-defining body 202 and / or the second port-defining body 204.

[0066] Each of first and second port-defining bodies 202, 204 can include female snap-fit features 212. The female snap-fit features 212 can include a channel configured to receive at least a portion of the resilient latching arm of the corresponding male snap-fit feature 210 and a catch configured to be engaged by the latching projection of the resilient latching arm. The female snap-fit features 212 provided on one of first and second port-defining bodies 202, 204 can be positioned to correspond to the respective positions of the male snap-fit features 210 provided on the other of the first and second port-defining bodies 202, 204. In an embodiment, at least some of the female snap-fit features 212 can include a through-hole between the channel and an exterior surface of the port-defining body including the female snap-fit feature 212. In an embodiment, the catch can be provided at a portion of a perimeter of the through-hole. In an embodiment, one through hole can extend over a plurality of channels of female snap-fit features 212. The through-hole can be configured to extend through an outer surface of the first and second port-defining bodies 202, 204 to the channel. The channel can be positioned radially outwardly with respect to the seal 214 and internal surfaces of the first and second port-defining bodies 202, 204, such that the through hole does not compromise sealing of an internal space defined within the hardened fiber optic adapter 200. Thus, the first and second port-defining bodies 202, 204 can cooperate to define a sealed internal connector passage that extends axially between the first and second connector ports 206, 208. The first and second portdefining bodies 202, 204 can include an outer coupling arrangement positioned radially outside the sealed internal connector passage which includes the male and female snap- fit features 210, 212. The outer coupling arrangement can include an outer housing (e.g., wall, structure, etc.) that surrounds and is isolated from the internal connector passage. The male snap-fit features 210 can be housed within the outer housing and the through-holes can extend radially outwardly through the outer housing.

[0067] In the exploded view of Figure 8, the first and second port-defining bodies 202, 204 can be seen as having identical mechanical features. The respective male and female snap-fit features 210, 212 can be evenly spaced along the diameter of the first and second port-defining bodies 202, 204, with the male snap-fit features 210 and female snap-fit features 212 alternating. This can allow identical pieces to be used as the first and second port-defining bodies 202, 204 to be used when assembling the hardened fiber optic adapter 200.

[0068] In an embodiment, first and second port-defining bodies 202, 204 can have different shapes, so long as the respective male and female snap-fit features 210, 212 of the respective first and second port-defining bodies 202, 204 are capable of interfacing with one another to allow interconnection of the first and second portdefining bodies 202, 204.

[0069] Seal 214 can be configured to provide a seal between the first and second port-defining bodies. In an embodiment, the seal 214 is co-axial with the adapter axis. Seal 214 can be an axial seal, compressed between opposing sealing surfaces provided on the first and second port-defining bodies 202, 204 when the respective male and female snap-fit features 210, 212 are engaged with one another.

[0070] Figure 9 is a is a cross-sectional view taken longitudinally through the hardened fiber optic adapter of Figure 7. In the sectional view of Figure 9, seal 214 can be seen compressed between the first and second port-defining bodies 202, 204 so as to provide the axial seal.

[0071] As can be seen in Figure 9, the hardened fiber optic adapter 200 includes a sleeve holder 216. Sleeve holder 216 is configured to support a ferrule alignment sleeve, such as the ferrule alignment sleeve 126 described above and shown in Figure 1. Sleeve holder 216 can be in alignment with the adapter axis of the hardened fiber optic adapter 200. In an embodiment, sleeve holder 216 includes a first holder portion 216a and a second holder portion 216b. The first holder portion 216a can be unitary with the first port-defining body 202. The second holder portion 216b can be unitary with the second port-defining body 204. When the first and second port-defining bodies 202, 204 are engaged with one another by way of the respective male and female snap- fit features 210, 212, the first and second holder portions 216a, b can be aligned with one another to define the sleeve holder 216.

[0072] Figure 10 depicts another hardened fiber optic adapter in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. Hardened fiber optic adapter 300 includes first port-defining body 302 and second port-defining body 304. First port-defining body 302 defines a first connector port 306. Second port-defining body 304 defines a second connector port 308. The first and second port-defining bodies 302, 304 can be interconnected by one or more snap-fit interfaces. When the first and second portdefining bodies 302, 304 are interconnected, the first and second connector ports can co-axially aligned along an adapter axis 303 extending in a longitudinal orientation of the hardened fiber optic adapter 300. In an embodiment, the first and second portdefining bodies 302, 304 have identical mechanical features.

[0073] Figure 11 is an outer end view of an adapter housing piece of the hardened fiber optic adapter of Figure 10. The adapter housing piece shown in Figure 11 can be used as one of the first port-defining body 302 or the second port-defining body 304 in hardened fiber optic adapter 300. The adapter housing piece includes threading 310 on an inner surface of the port, which can be provided as either the first connector port 306 or the second connector port 308. The threading 310 at the port can be configured to engage threads provided on a rotatable coupling of a hardened fiber optic connector for retaining the hardened fiber optic connector to the hardened fiber optic adapter 300.

[0074] The male snap-fit features 312 can each include one or more resilient latching arms, including a latching projection at a distal end thereof. The latching projection can be configured to engage with a catch provided on a corresponding female snap-fit feature. A plurality of the male snap-fit features 312 can be distributed around a perimeter of the respective first port-defining body 302 or the second portdefining body 304. In an embodiment, at least some of the male snap-fit features 312 can be provided in a pair of the resilient latching arms, separated by a gap.

[0075] Figure 12 in an inner end view of the adapter housing piece of Figure 11 Figure 13 is another inner end view of the adapter housing piece of Figure 12. The adapter housing piece includes female snap-fit features 314.

[0076] The female snap-fit features 314 can include a channel configured to receive at least a portion of the resilient latching arm of the corresponding male snap-fit feature 312 and a catch configured to be engaged by the latching projection of the resilient latching arm. The female snap-fit features 314 provided on one of first and second port-defining bodies 302, 304 can be positioned to correspond to the respective positions of the male snap-fit features 312 provided on the other of the first and second port-defining bodies 202, 204. In an embodiment, at least some of the female snap-fit features 212 can include a through-hole between the channel and an exterior surface of the port-defining body including the female snap-fit feature 212.

[0077] The adapter housing piece further includes internal surfaces 316 defining an interior space of the first and second port-defining bodies 302, 304. The interior space defined by internal surfaces 314 can be configured to accommodate an inner assembly. The inner assembly can mount inside the first and second port-defining bodies 302, 304. In an embodiment, the inner assembly is captured between the first and second port-defining bodies 302, 304. The inner assembly is shown in Figures 14- 16.

[0078] Figure 14 is a perspective view of an inner assembly of the hardened fiber optic adapter of Figure 10. Inner assembly 318 includes first component 320 and second component 322. First component 320 includes a projection 324 configured to be received in a corresponding recess 326 provided on the second component 322. The first and second components 320, 322 are configured such that when first and second components 320, 322 are combined, the inner assembly 318 is shaped and sized to be mounted inside of the first and second port-defining bodies 302, 304.

[0079] Figure 15 is a perspective view of a first component of the inner assembly of Figure 14. First component 320 includes the projection 324. First component 320 further includes a sleeve holder 328. The sleeve holder 328 is configured to support a ferrule alignment sleeve.

[0080] Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view taken longitudinally through the hardened fiber optic adapter of Figure 10. In the sectional view of Figure 16, the male snap-fit features 312 of the first port-defining body 302 are received in the corresponding female snap-fit features 314 of the second port-defining body 304. The first and second components 320, 322 of the inner assembly 318 are joined, and mounted inside of the first and second port-defining bodies 302, 304.

[0081] Ferrule alignment sleeve 330 is positioned within sleeve holder 328. The ferrule alignment sleeve 330 is configured to co-axially align the respective ferrules of the first and second hardened fiber optic connectors when the hardened fiber optic connectors are secured within the first and second connector ports 306, 308. Ferrule alignment sleeve 330 can be positioned within the sleeve holder 328 included in first component 320 of the inner assembly 318. Ferrule alignment sleeve 330 can be aligned along the adapter axis. The first connector port 306, the second connector port 308, and the ferrule alignment sleeve 330 can be co-axially aligned.

[0082] Figures 17 and 18 depict another hardened fiber optic adapter 400 in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. Hardened fiber optic adapter 400 includes first port-defining body 402 and second port-defining body 404. First port-defining body 402 defines a first connector port 406. Second port-defining body 404 defines a second connector port 408. The first and second port-defining bodies 402, 404 can be interconnected by one or more snap-fit interfaces. When the first and second port-defining bodies 402, 404 are interconnected, the first and second connector ports co-axially align along an adapter axis 403 (see Fig. 30) extending in a longitudinal orientation of the hardened fiber optic adapter 400. In the depicted example of FIGS. 17-30, the first and second port-defining bodies 402, 404 have identical mechanical features and are identical parts.

[0083] First connector port 406 and second connector port 408 are each configured to receive hardened fiber optic connectors, such as the first and second hardened fiber optic connectors 118, 120 as described above and shown in Figures 2, 3, and 6. Hardened fiber optic connectors can be connected to the first and second portdefining bodies 402, 404 by any suitable connection such as the fixed exterior interlocks 128 and locking sleeves 116 described above and shown in Figure 4.

[0084] The fiber optic adapter 400 also includes dust caps 112 having seals 113 for closing and sealing the first and second connector ports 406, 408 when the connector ports 406, 408 are not occupied by a hardened fiber-optic connector. The dust caps 112 can rotationally interlock with the interlocks 128 as shown at Figures 17 and 30. Lanyards 114 are used to tether the dust caps 112 to a main body of the fiberoptic adapter 400. The main body is defined by the first port-defining body 402 and the second port-defining body 404. A seal 214 (e.g., an O-ring seal) can be axially compressed between axial end faces of the first and second port-defining bodies 402, 404 when the port-defining bodies 402, 404 are coupled together to provide sealing between the first and second port-defining bodies 402, 404. The axial end faces of the port-defining bodies 402, 404 can include opposing annular grooves 405 in which the seal 214 is positioned. The seal 214 and the grooves 405 can be coaxially aligned with the adapter axis 403. The first and second port-defining bodies 402, 404 can each include a sleeve receiving structure 407 (see FIG. 29) that is unitary with a main body of each of the first and second port-defining bodies 402, 404. A ferrule alignment sleeve 126 can be received and captured within the sleeve receiving structures 407 when the first and second port-defining bodies 402, 404 are coupled together. The sleeve receiving structures 407 have open ends that face outwardly from the axial and faces of the port-defining bodies 402, 404. When the first and second port-defining bodies 402, 404 are coupled together, the open ends of the sleeve receiving structures 407 oppose each other and the ferrule alignment sleeve 126 extends through the open ends and is captured axially between the sleeve receiving structures 407. An annular gap 409 is defined between each of the sleeve receiving structures 407 and an inner wall 411 (see FIG. 29) of the fiber-optic adapter 400 defined by the first and second port-defining bodies 402, 404. The first and second port-defining bodies 402, 404 include unitary loop structures 413 for allowing the fiber optic adapter 400 to be attached to another structure by a fastening component such as a wire, a clamp or a tiewrap (e.g., a zip-tie).

[0085] The first and second port-defining bodies 402, 404 and the seal 214 cooperate to define a sealed interior connector passage 415 (see Fig. 30) that extends along the adapter axis 403 from the first connector port 406 to the second connector port 408. The snap-fit interface interfaces for coupling the first and second portdefining bodies 402, 404 axially together are positioned outside and isolated from the sealed interior connector passage 415.

[0086] The first and second port-defining bodies 402, 404 each include cantilever latches 460 having latch lengths that extend along the adapter axis 403 and channels 462 having channel lengths that extend along the adapter axis 403 for providing the snap-fit interface used to couple the first and second port-defining bodies 402, 404 axially together. The cantilever latches 460 of the first port-defining body 402 are received within the channels 462 of the second port-defining body 404 and the cantilever latches 460 of the second port-defining body 404 are received within the channels 462 of the first port-defining body 402. As depicted, each of the first and second port-defining bodies 402, 404 includes three of the cantilever latches 460 and three of the channels 462 that are circumferentially spaced relative to one another about the adapter axis 403.

[0087] The channels 462 are defined radially between the inner wall 411 and an outer wall 417 (see FIG. 25) that surrounds the inner wall 411. The inner wall 411 surrounds and defines the sealed interior connector passage 415. The outer wall 417 is unitarily connected with the inner wall 411 at radial connection regions located circumferentially between the channels 462.

[0088] As depicted at FIGS. 24-29, one of the cantilever latches 460 of each of the first and second port-defining bodies 402, 404 is split to define a longitudinal slot 463. The first and second port-defining bodies 402, 404 also each define a longitudinal keying rail 464 that divides one of the channels 462 into first and second channel portions 462a, 462b. The longitudinal slot 463 of the first port-defining body 402 receives the longitudinal keying rail 464 of the second port-defining body 404 and the longitudinal slot 463 of the second port-defining body 404 receives the longitudinal keying rail 464 of the first port-defining body 402 when the first and second portdefining bodies 402, 404 are coupled together to provide rotational keying between the first and second port-defining bodies 402, 404. The first and second port-defining bodies 402, 404 can include tabs 480 that axially align with the cantilever latches 460 and tab receptacles 481 that axially align with the channels 462. The tabs 480 mate with the receptacles 481 (see FIG. 17) when the first and second port-defining bodies 202, 204 are coupled together to inhibit relative rotation about the adapter axis 403 between the first and second port-defining bodies 402, 404. The tabs 480 can be arranged in a castellated configuration.

[0089] The first and second port defining bodies 402, 404 include outer housing portions 470 that each cover the cantilever latches 460 of the other of the first and second port defining bodies 402, 404 when the first and second port defining bodies 402, 404 are coupled together. The outer housing portions 470 can include the outer wall 417 and can define through-openings 472 that extend from the channels 462 radially outwardly to exteriors of the outer housing portions 470. The through- openings 472 are configured for receiving outwardly projecting latching projections 474 of the cantilever latches 460. Side openings 485 can be defined in the outer housing portions 470 to facilitate molding of the first and second port-defining bodies 402, 404. In alternative examples, fiber-optic adapters in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure can be configured for coupling together hardened multi-fiber optical connectors. In such examples, ferrule alignment sleeves may be eliminated. Instead, final alignment between multi-fiber ferrules of the multi-fiber optical connectors can be provided by ferrule pins received within ferrule openings in the same manner MPO ferrules are aligned. Structure for guiding and pre-aligning multi-fiber ferrules can be provided within the adapter. In certain examples, a pinned or non-pinned hardened multi-fiber connector can be factory installed within one of the hardened ports of the adapter. A sleeve such as sleeve 117 can be used to lock the factory-installed connector within its corresponding port. In certain examples, the hardened multi-fiber optical connectors can have a configuration in which pins can be installed in the field or removed in the field to enhance compatibility. Thus, such multifiber optical connectors can be convertible between a male configuration and a female configuration. Systems in which pinned multi-fiber connectors are factory installed within fiber optic adapters would be adapted to be used in combination with nonpinned hardened multi-fiber connectors, systems in which non-multi-fiber connectors are factory installed within fiber-optic adapters would be adapted for use with pinned hardened multi-fiber connectors.

[0090] From the forgoing detailed description, it will be evident that modifications and variations can be made in the devices of the disclosure without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention.

[0091] Aspects of the Disclosure

[0092] Aspect 1. A hardened fiber optic adapter comprising: an adapter housing sleeve having a length that extends along an adapter axis between a first sleeve end and an opposite second sleeve end; a first port-defining body that connects to the first sleeve end of the adapter housing sleeve by a snap-fit connection, the first port-defining body defining a first connector port; a second port-defining body that connects to the second sleeve end of the adapter housing sleeve by a threaded connection, the second port-defining body defining a second connector port; the first and second connector ports being adapted for receiving hardened fiber optic connectors; a first seal for sealing between the first port-defining body and the adapter housing sleeve; and a second seal for sealing between the second port-defining body and the adapter housing sleeve.

[0093] Aspect 2. The hardened fiber optic adapter of aspect 1 , wherein the first seal is a radial seal, and the second seal is an axial seal.

[0094] Aspect 3. The hardened fiber optic adapter of aspect 1 or 2, wherein the first seal has a first outer diameter, wherein the second seal has a second outer diameter, and wherein the first outer diameter is smaller than the second outer diameter.

[0095] Aspect 4. The hardened fiber optic adapter of any one of aspects 1-3, wherein the first port-defining body includes a resilient latching arm, wherein the adapter housing sleeve defines a snap-fit catch, and wherein the resilient latching arm engages the snap-fit catch to provide the snap-fit connection.

[0096] Aspect 5. The hardened fiber optic adapter of any one of aspects 1-4, wherein the first and second port-defining bodies include fixed exterior interlocks adapted to engage with rotational interlocks of dust caps or rotational interlocks of the hardened fiber optic connectors.

[0097] Aspect 6. The hardened fiber optic adapter of any one of aspects 1-5, further comprising locking sleeves mounted over the first and second port-defining bodies, the locking sleeves being slidable relative to the first and second port-defining bodies in an orientation along the adapter axis.

[0098] Aspect 7. The hardened fiber optic adapter of any one of aspects 1-6, wherein the rotational interlocks of the hardened fiber optic connectors are defined within rotational couplers rotationally mounted on plug bodies of the hardened fiber optic connectors, and wherein the rotational interlocks and the fixed interlocks cooperate to define quarter-turn coupling interfaces for securing the hardened fiber optic connectors with the first and second connector ports.

[0099] Aspect 8. The hardened fiber optic adapter of any one of aspects 1-7, wherein the hardened fiber optic connectors are configured to be secured within the first and second ports by rotational interlock interfaces.

[0100] Aspect 9. The hardened fiber optic adapter of any one of aspects 1-8, further comprising dust caps for selectively covering the first and second connector ports, wherein the dust caps are tethered to the first and second port-defining bodies by lanyards.

[0101] Aspect 10. The hardened fiber optic adapter of any one of aspects 1-9, further comprising a ferrule alignment sleeve positioned within the adapter housing sleeve and aligned along the adapter axis, wherein the first connector port, the second connector port and the ferrule alignment sleeve are co-axially aligned, and wherein the ferrule alignment sleeve is configured for co-axially aligning ferrules of the hardened fiber optic connectors when the hardened fiber optic connectors are secured within the first and second connector ports.

[0102] Aspect 11. The hardened fiber optic adapter of any one of aspects 1-10, wherein the hardened fiber optic connectors have exterior seals for sealing against sealing surfaces located within the first and second connector ports.

[0103] Aspect 12. The hardened fiber optic adapter of any one of aspects 1-11, wherein the ferrule alignment sleeve is supported within a sleeve holder that is unitarily formed with the second port-defining body.

[0104] Aspect 13. A hardened fiber optic adapter comprising: a first port-defining body defining a first connector port; a second port-defining body defining a second connector port; the first and second port-defining bodies being interconnected by a snap- fit interface, wherein when first and second port-defining bodies are interconnected the first and second connector ports are co-axially aligned along an adapter axis; a seal for sealing between the first and second port-defining bodies, the seal being co-axial with the adapter axis; a ferrule alignment sleeve supported within the hardened fiber optic adapter in alignment with the adapter axis; and the first and second connector ports being adapted for receiving hardened fiber optic connectors.

[0105] Aspect 14. The hardened fiber optic adapter of aspect 13, wherein each of the first and second port-defining bodies includes a male snap-fit feature and a female snap-fit feature.

[0106] Aspect 15. The hardened fiber optic adapter of aspect 13 or 14, wherein the first and second port-defining bodies have identical mechanical features.

[0107] Aspect 16. The hardened fiber optic adapter of any one of aspects 13-15, wherein the male snap-fit feature includes a resilient latching arm and wherein the female snap-fit feature includes a catch.

[0108] Aspect 17. The hardened fiber optic adapter of any one of aspects 13-16, wherein the resilient latching arm has a split configuration including first and second arm portions separated by a slot, and wherein the first and second port-defining bodies includes ribs adapted to fit the slots when the first and second port-defining bodies are interconnected.

[0109] Aspect 18. The hardened fiber optic adapter of any one of aspects 13-17, wherein the seal is an axial seal.

[0110] Aspect 19. The hardened fiber optic adapter of any one of aspects 13-18, wherein the ferrule alignment sleeve is contained in a sleeve holder including a first holder portion unitary with the first port-defining body and a second holder portion unitary with the second port-defining body. Aspect 20. The hardened fiber optic adapter of any one of aspects 13-19, wherein the ferrule alignment sleeve is contained in a sleeve holder that is defined by an inner housing assembly that mounts inside the first and second port-defining bodies and is captured between the first and second port-defining bodies.

[0111] Aspect 21. The hardened fiber optic adapter of any one of aspects 13-20, wherein the first and second port-defining bodies and the seal cooperate to define a sealed interior connector passage that extends along the adapter axis from the first connector port to the second connector port.

[0112] Aspect 22. The hardened fiber optic adapter of any one of aspects 13-21, wherein the snap-fit interface is positioned outside and isolated from the sealed interior connector passage.

[0113] Aspect 23. The hardened fiber optic adapter of any one of aspects 13-22, wherein the first and second port-defining bodies each include cantilever latches having latch lengths that extend along the adapter axis and channels having channel lengths that extend along the adapter axis for providing the snap-fit interface, wherein the cantilever latches of the first port-defining body are received within the channels of the second port-defining body and the cantilever latches of the second port-defining body are received within the channels of the first port-defining body.

[0114] Aspect 24. The hardened fiber optic adapter of any one of aspects 13-23, wherein the channels are defined radially between an inner wall that surrounds and defines the sealed interior connector passage and an outer wall that surrounds the inner wall.

[0115] Aspect 25. The hardened fiber optic adapter of any one of aspects 13-24, wherein one of the cantilever latches of each of the first and second port-defining bodies is split to define a longitudinal slot, wherein each of the first and second port-defining bodies defines a longitudinal keying rail that divides one of the channels into first and second channel portions, wherein the longitudinal slot of the first port-defining body receives the longitudinal keying rail of the second port-defining body and the longitudinal slot of the second port-defining body receives the longitudinal keying rail of the first portdefining body when the first and second port-defining bodies are coupled together to provide rotational keying between the first and second port-defining bodies.

[0116] Aspect 26. The hardened fiber optic adapter of any one of aspects 13-25, wherein the first and second port defining include outer housing portions that cover the cantilever latches, and wherein the outer housing portions define through-openings that extend from the channels to exteriors of the outer housing portions, the through-openings being configured for receiving outwardly projecting latching projections of the cantilever latches.

[0117] Aspect 27. A hardened fiber optic adapter comprising: a first port-defining body defining a first connector port; a second port-defining body defining a second connector port; the first and second port-defining bodies being interconnected by a snap- fit interface, wherein when first and second port-defining bodies are interconnected the first and second connector ports are co-axially aligned along an adapter axis; a seal for sealing between the first and second port-defining bodies; the first and second port-defining bodies and the seal cooperating to define a sealed interior connector passage that extends along the adapter axis from the first connector port to the second connector port, wherein the snap-fit interface is positioned outside and isolated from the sealed interior connector passage; and the first and second connector ports being adapted for receiving hardened fiber optic connectors.

[0118] Aspect 28. The hardened fiber optic adapter of aspect 27, wherein the first and second port-defining bodies each include cantilever latches having latch lengths that extend along the adapter axis and channels having channel lengths that extend along the adapter axis for providing the snap-fit interface, wherein the cantilever latches of the first port-defining body are received within the channels of the second port-defining body and the cantilever latches of the second port-defining body are received within the channels of the first port-defining body.

[0119] Aspect 29. The hardened fiber optic adapter of aspect 27 or 28, wherein the channels are defined radially between an inner wall that surrounds and defines the sealed interior connector passage and an outer wall that surrounds the inner wall.

[0120] Aspect 30. The hardened fiber optic adapter of any one of aspects 27-29, wherein one of the cantilever latches of each of the first and second port-defining bodies is split to define a longitudinal slot, wherein each of the first and second port-defining bodies defines a longitudinal keying rail that divides one of the channels into first and second channel portions, wherein the longitudinal slot of the first port-defining body receives the longitudinal keying rail of the second port-defining body and the longitudinal slot of the second port-defining body receives the longitudinal key rail of the first portdefining body when the first and second port-defining bodies are coupled together to provide rotational keying between the first and second port-defining bodies.

[0121] Aspect 31. The hardened fiber optic adapter of any one of aspects 27-30, wherein the first and second port defining bodies include outer housing portions that each cover the cantilever latches of the other of the first and second port defining bodies when the first and second port defining bodies are coupled together, and wherein the outer housing portions define through-openings that extend from the channels to exteriors of the outer housing portions, the through-openings being configured for receiving outwardly projecting latching projections of the cantilever latches.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A hardened fiber optic adapter comprising: an adapter housing sleeve having a length that extends along an adapter axis between a first sleeve end and an opposite second sleeve end; a first port-defining body that connects to the first sleeve end of the adapter housing sleeve by a snap-fit connection, the first port-defining body defining a first connector port; a second port-defining body that connects to the second sleeve end of the adapter housing sleeve by a threaded connection, the second port-defining body defining a second connector port; the first and second connector ports being adapted for receiving hardened fiber optic connectors; a first seal for sealing between the first port-defining body and the adapter housing sleeve; and a second seal for sealing between the second port-defining body and the adapter housing sleeve.

2. The hardened fiber optic adapter of claim 1, wherein the first seal is a radial seal, and the second seal is an axial seal.

3. The hardened fiber optic adapter of claim 1 or 2, wherein the first seal has a first outer diameter, wherein the second seal has a second outer diameter, and wherein the first outer diameter is smaller than the second outer diameter.

4. The hardened fiber optic adapter of claim 1 , wherein the first port-defining body includes a resilient latching arm, wherein the adapter housing sleeve defines a snap-fit catch, and wherein the resilient latching arm engages the snap-fit catch to provide the snap-fit connection.

5. The hardened fiber optic adapter of claim 1 , wherein the first and second portdefining bodies include fixed exterior interlocks adapted to engage withrotational interlocks of dust caps or rotational interlocks of the hardened fiber optic connectors.

6. The hardened fiber optic adapter of claim 5, further comprising locking sleeves mounted over the first and second port-defining bodies, the locking sleeves being slidable relative to the first and second port-defining bodies in an orientation along the adapter axis.

7. The hardened fiber optic adapter of claim 5, wherein the rotational interlocks of the hardened fiber optic connectors are defined within rotational couplers rotationally mounted on plug bodies of the hardened fiber optic connectors, and wherein the rotational interlocks and the fixed interlocks cooperate to define quarter-turn coupling interfaces for securing the hardened fiber optic connectors with the first and second connector ports.

8. The hardened fiber optic adapter of claim 1, wherein the hardened fiber optic connectors are configured to be secured within the first and second ports by rotational interlock interfaces.

9. The hardened fiber optic adapter of claim 1, further comprising dust caps for selectively covering the first and second connector ports, wherein the dust caps are tethered to the first and second port-defining bodies by lanyards.

10. The hardened fiber optic adapter of claim 1, further comprising a ferrule alignment sleeve positioned within the adapter housing sleeve and aligned along the adapter axis, wherein the first connector port, the second connector port and the ferrule alignment sleeve are co-axially aligned, and wherein the ferrule alignment sleeve is configured for co-axially aligning ferrules of the hardened fiber optic connectors when the hardened fiber optic connectors are secured within the first and second connector ports.

11. The hardened fiber optic adapter of claim 9, wherein the hardened fiber optic connectors have exterior seals for sealing against sealing surfaces located within the first and second connector ports.

12. The hardened fiber optic adapter of claim 10, wherein the ferrule alignment sleeve is supported within a sleeve holder that is unitarily formed with the second port-defining body.

13. A hardened fiber optic adapter comprising: a first port-defining body defining a first connector port; a second port-defining body defining a second connector port; the first and second port-defining bodies being interconnected by a snap- fit interface, wherein when first and second port-defining bodies are interconnected the first and second connector ports are co-axially aligned along an adapter axis; a seal for sealing between the first and second port-defining bodies, the seal being co-axial with the adapter axis; a ferrule alignment sleeve supported within the hardened fiber optic adapter in alignment with the adapter axis; and the first and second connector ports being adapted for receiving hardened fiber optic connectors.

14. The hardened fiber optic adapter of claim 13, wherein each of the first and second port-defining bodies includes a male snap-fit feature and a female snap- fit feature.

15. The hardened fiber optic adapter of claim 14, wherein the first and second portdefining bodies have identical mechanical features.

16. The hardened fiber optic adapter of claim 14, wherein the male snap-fit feature includes a resilient latching arm and wherein the female snap-fit feature includes a catch.

17. The hardened fiber optic adapter of claim 16, wherein the resilient latching arm has a split configuration including first and second arm portions separated by a slot, and wherein the first and second port-defining bodies includes ribs adapted to fit the slots when the first and second port-defining bodies are interconnected.

18. The hardened fiber optic adapter of claim 13, wherein the seal is an axial seal.

19. The hardened fiber optic adapter of claim 13, wherein the ferrule alignment sleeve is contained in a sleeve holder including a first holder portion unitary with the first port-defining body and a second holder portion unitary with the second port-defining body.

20. The hardened fiber optic adapter of claim 13, wherein the ferrule alignment sleeve is contained in a sleeve holder that is defined by an inner housing assembly that mounts inside the first and second port-defining bodies and is captured between the first and second port-defining bodies.

21. The hardened fiber optic adapter of claim 13, wherein the first and second portdefining bodies and the seal cooperate to define a sealed interior connector passage that extends along the adapter axis from the first connector port to the second connector port.

22. The hardened fiber optic adapter of claim 21, wherein the snap-fit interface is positioned outside and isolated from the sealed interior connector passage.

23. The hardened fiber optic adapter of claim 22, wherein the first and second portdefining bodies each include cantilever latches having latch lengths that extend along the adapter axis and channels having channel lengths that extend along the adapter axis for providing the snap-fit interface, wherein the cantilever latches of the first port-defining body are received within the channels of the second port-defining body and the cantilever latches of the second port-defining body are received within the channels of the first port-defining body.

24. The hardened fiber optic adapter of claim 23, wherein the channels are defined radially between an inner wall that surrounds and defines the sealed interior connector passage and an outer wall that surrounds the inner wall.

25. The hardened fiber optic adapter of claim 23, wherein one of the cantilever latches of each of the first and second port-defining bodies is split to define a longitudinal slot, wherein each of the first and second port-defining bodies defines a longitudinal keying rail that divides one of the channels into first and second channel portions, wherein the longitudinal slot of the first port-defining body receives the longitudinal keying rail of the second port-defining body and the longitudinal slot of the second port-defining body receives the longitudinal keying rail of the first port-defining body when the first and second portdefining bodies are coupled together to provide rotational keying between the first and second port-defining bodies.

26. The hardened fiber optic adapter of claim 23, wherein the first and second port defining include outer housing portions that cover the cantilever latches, and wherein the outer housing portions define through-openings that extend from the channels to exteriors of the outer housing portions, the through-openings being configured for receiving outwardly projecting latching projections of the cantilever latches.

27. A hardened fiber optic adapter comprising: a first port-defining body defining a first connector port; a second port-defining body defining a second connector port; the first and second port-defining bodies being interconnected by a snap- fit interface, wherein when first and second port-defining bodies are interconnected the first and second connector ports are co-axially aligned along an adapter axis; a seal for sealing between the first and second port-defining bodies; the first and second port-defining bodies and the seal cooperating to define a sealed interior connector passage that extends along the adapter axisfrom the first connector port to the second connector port, wherein the snap-fit interface is positioned outside and isolated from the sealed interior connector passage; and the first and second connector ports being adapted for receiving hardened fiber optic connectors.

28. The hardened fiber optic adapter of claim 27, wherein the first and second portdefining bodies each include cantilever latches having latch lengths that extend along the adapter axis and channels having channel lengths that extend along the adapter axis for providing the snap-fit interface, wherein the cantilever latches of the first port-defining body are received within the channels of the second port-defining body and the cantilever latches of the second port-defining body are received within the channels of the first port-defining body.

29. The hardened fiber optic adapter of claim 28, wherein the channels are defined radially between an inner wall that surrounds and defines the sealed interior connector passage and an outer wall that surrounds the inner wall.

30. The hardened fiber optic adapter of claim 28, wherein one of the cantilever latches of each of the first and second port-defining bodies is split to define a longitudinal slot, wherein each of the first and second port-defining bodies defines a longitudinal keying rail that divides one of the channels into first and second channel portions, wherein the longitudinal slot of the first port-defining body receives the longitudinal keying rail of the second port-defining body and the longitudinal slot of the second port-defining body receives the longitudinal keying rail of the first port-defining body when the first and second portdefining bodies are coupled together to provide rotational keying between the first and second port-defining bodies.

31. The hardened fiber optic adapter of claim 28, wherein the first and second port defining bodies include outer housing portions that each cover the cantilever latches of the other of the first and second port defining bodies when the firstand second port defining bodies are coupled together, and wherein the outer housing portions define through-openings that extend from the channels to exteriors of the outer housing portions, the through-openings being configured for receiving outwardly projecting latching projections of the cantilever latches.

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