Pluggable mt connector and transceiver

Abstract

A fiber optic connector assembly includes a housing having a first portion and a second portion that are secured together around a ferrule. The ferrule extends out of an opening in the front face of the connector. A deflectable locking member is secured to the first portion, wherein the locking member is configured to retain the connector in a receptable of a fiber optic device, like a fiber optic transceiver. The fiber optic transceiver includes a housing with a top portion and a bottom portion that are secured together. An optical engine is received with a cavity formed between the top portion and the bottom portion. An edge of a printed circuit board at least partially extends out of a card end of the housing. The housing includes a port that is configured to receive an optical connector such that the ferrule in the connector engages the optical engine.

Description

Atty. Docket: 014169-031990Customer #23380PLUGGABLE MT CONNECTOR AND TRANSCEIVERRELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 730,832 filedDecember 11, 2025.BACKGROUND

[0002] The fiber optic data / telecommunication and sensing industries utilize low cost, off-the- shelf plastic elements for multi-termination connections in an industry (IEC) standardized form factor called an MT ferrule and a Push-Pull connector called a multi-fiber push-on connector, or MPO connector. MPO connectors can be plugged into passive elements which provide cable to cable connections. Alternatively, MPO connectors can be plugged into active devices, like an optical transceiver, which convert the light pulses in the fiber cable to electrical pulses on a circuit card which then travel on a PCBA to a processor or network switch. Current configurations of MPO connectors do not provide reliable connections between MT ferrules for operation in rugged environments where wider temperature, shock, vibration, and humidity ranges are common. Examples of rugged environments include military and aerospace fiber optic data transmission applications.

[0003] MPO connectors utilize MT ferrules within them to house 12 or more fibers in a horizontal array. These connectors have guide pins that align the ferrules to each other and springs to hold them together within the MPO outer connector bodies. The MPO outer body utilizes a push-pull mechanism to install and remove the connector. MPO connectors do not include a locking mechanism. Optical transceivers, like Quad Small Form-Factor Pluggable (or QSFP) transceivers, that are used widely throughout the world in data / telecom applications have receptacles for these MPO connectors and have MT ferrules align within the body of the transceiver directly or with a ferrule-to-ferrule jumper cable which then attaches to an optical engine containing optical transmitters, receivers, and associated circuitry to drive the optical to electrical conversions. The push-pull mechanism of an MPO connector does not reliably secure the ferrule in place. Further, MPO connectors are plastic and can deform over time and withAtty. Docket: 014169-031990Customer #23380 exposure to temperatures and rugged environments while the MT ferrule is a glass filled plastic and does not deform as much as the MPO. As such, if MPO connectors and receptacles are used in rugged environments, shock, vibration, humidity, and temperature variances may cause the MT ferrule within the connectors to disconnect or become misaligned.

[0004] Current push-pull connectors and associated transceivers can occupy a lot of space because of the length and pull-tab design required for the push-pull mechanism. The current design of common push-pull connectors requires the components of the connector to be slid onto the fiber optics cable before the fiber optics cable is terminated with the MT ferrule and assembled after termination. Additionally, to provide MT Ferrules in rugged or harsh environments, current solutions remove the MPO connector and the push-pull connection entirely. The MT ferrule may be secured within substantial metal and hard, rigid plastic connector bodies that utilize industry standard connector housings such as the MIL 38999 or similar connector housings. The MT ferrule can only be removed as a part of the connector body which is substantially larger in size and weight when compared to the MT ferrule. Alternatively, a housing can be created around the MT ferrule that attaches to a separate proprietary receptable with screws. Yet another solution includes a sheet metal clip which provides horizontal retaining force from one MT ferrule to another MT ferrule. These clips have not reliably worked and are often reinforced with additional hardware or epoxy. The existing solutions have failed to provide a reliable, robust, cost effective, and compact means for connecting MT ferrules in a rugged environment.SUMMARY

[0005] This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key factors or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0006] In one implementation, a fiber optic connector assembly may include a housing having a first portion and a second portion, wherein the first portion and the second portion are secured together around a ferrule, the ferrule extending out of an opening that extends through the front face of the connector. The fiber optic connector may include a deflect table locking memberAty. Docket: 014169-031990Customer #23380 secured to the first portion, wherein the locking member is configured to retain the connector in a receptable of a fiber optic device.

[0007] The locking member may include a base portion attached to the first portion of the housing and a deflectable portion connected to the base portion and configured to deflect toward the based member.

[0008] The locking member may further include a wing extending outwardly and upwardly from each side of the deflectable portion, wherein the wings are configured to engage shoulders of a receptable to retain the connector within the receptacle.

[0009] The deflectable portion may have an embossment configured to provide stiffness to the deflectable portion.

[0010] The locking member may further include a flange that is angled relative to the deflectable portion, the flange being configured to provide an engagement surface.

[0011] The fiber optic connector may further include a resilient member between the first portion and the second portion configured to bias the ferrule toward a front face of the connector.

[0012] The bottom portion of the housing may include a ledge configured to engage the ferrule to limit how far the ferrule extends out of the opening.

[0013] The first portion of the housing may include at least one pin extending into a cavity of the first portion, wherein one end of the resilient member engages the at least one pin and an opposite end of the resilient member provides the bias force to the ferrule.

[0014] The first portion and / or the second portion of the housing may include a ramp extending down from each side wall toward an internal surface of the respective portion, the ramps being shaped to receive the resilient member and configured to receive the resilient member within a cavity of the connector.

[0015] The second portion of the housing may include an alignment tab extending toward a front of the second portion and configured to engage keyways proximal to the front of the first portion, wherein the alignment tabs are received into the keyways and second portion can be rotated toward the first portion to secure the first portion and the second portion together.Aty. Docket: 014169-031990Customer #23380

[0016] The first portion and the second portion of the housing may be secured together with a mechanical fastener.

[0017] Top portion of the housing may include at least one rib extending upward from a top surface of the top portion, the at least one rib configured to engage an edge of the locking member to prevent the locking member from rotating.

[0018] The top portion may include a recess extending into a top surface of the top portion, the recess being configured to receive and engage the base of the locking member to prevent the locking member from rotating.

[0019] The fiber optic connector may include a cable boot, wherein a proximal end of the cable boot is secured to an extension extending from the rear face of the housing.

[0020] In another implementation a fiber optic transceiver assembly may include a housing. The housing may include a top portion and a bottom portion, wherein the top portion and the bottom portion maybe secured together, The housing may include a cavity formed between the top portion and the botom portion, the cavity being configured to receive an optical engine comprising a lens array mounted to a printed circuit board. The housing may include a port in a receptacle end of the housing. The port may be configured to receive an optical connector such that an optical ferrule in the connector will engage the optical engine. The printed circuit board may at least partially extend out of a card end of the housing.

[0021] The bottom portion of the housing may include a recess configured to receive the printed circuit board, wherein at least one projection extends into the recess from a side wall of the bottom portion to engage at least one corresponding notch in the printed circuit board.

[0022] The top portion of the housing may include at least one pin that extends down into the cavity, the at least one pin being configured to engage cutouts in a top of the optical engine.

[0023] The at least one pin may be secured in the cutouts with a gap filler material.

[0024] Each sidewall of the top portion may include a ledge at the card end of the housing and each sidewall of the bottom portion includes a hook at the card end of the housing. Each hook may include an open end oriented toward the receptacle end of the housing that is configured to receive the corresponding ledge of the top portion, wherein the ledges are received into the open ends andAty. Docket: 014169-031990Customer #23380 top portion can be rotated toward the bottom portion to secure the first portion and the second portion together.

[0025] A shoulder may partially extend into the port from each side of the port. The shoulders may be configured to engage a portion of the optical connector to retain the optical connector within the port.

[0026] The top portion and the bottom portion may be secured together with a mechanical fastener.

[0027] The housing may be from metal or another durable material.

[0028] To the accomplishment of the foregoing and related ends, the following description and annexed drawings set forth certain illustrative aspects and implementations. These are indicative of but a few of the various ways in which one or more aspects may be employed. Other aspects, advantages, and novel features of the disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the annexed drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0029] What is disclosed herein may take physical form in certain parts and arrangement of parts, and will be described in detail in this specification and illustrated in the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof and wherein:

[0030] FIG. 1 shows a front perspective view of an exemplary transceiver.

[0031] FIG. 2 shows a rear perspective view of the exemplary transceiver.

[0032] FIG. 3 shows a rear perspective exploded view of the exemplary receiver.

[0033] FIG. 4 shows a front view of the exemplary transceiver.

[0034] FIG. 5 shows a rear view of the exemplary transceiver.

[0035] FIG. 6 shows a right side view of the exemplary transceiver.

[0036] FIG. 7 shows a left side view of the exemplary transceiver.

[0037] FIG. 8 shows a top view of the exemplary transceiver.Atty. Docket: 014169-031990Customer #23380

[0038] FIG. 9 shows a bottom view of the exemplary transceiver.

[0039] FIG. 10 shows a front perspective view of a second exemplary transceiver.

[0040] FIG. 11 shows a rear perspective view of the second exemplary transceiver.

[0041] FIG. 12 shows a rear perspective exploded view of the second exemplary receiver.

[0042] FIG. 13 shows a front view of the second exemplary transceiver.

[0043] FIG. 14 shows a rear view of the second exemplary transceiver.

[0044] FIG. 15 shows a right side view of the second exemplary transceiver.

[0045] FIG. 16 shows a left side view of the second exemplary transceiver.

[0046] FIG. 17 shows a top view of the second exemplary transceiver.

[0047] FIG. 18 shows a bottom view of the second exemplary transceiver.

[0048] FIG. 19 shows a top perspective view of an exemplary connector.

[0049] FIG. 20 shows a bottom perspective view of the exemplary connector.

[0050] FIG. 21 shows a top perspective exploded view of the exemplary connector.

[0051] FIG. 22 shows a front view of the exemplary connector.

[0052] FIG. 23 shows a rear view of the exemplary connector.

[0053] FIG. 24 shows a right side view of the exemplary connector.

[0054] FIG. 25 shows a left side view of the exemplary connector.

[0055] FIG. 26 shows a top view of the exemplary connector.

[0056] FIG. 27 shows a bottom view of the exemplary connector.

[0057] FIG. 28 shows a top perspective view of the top portion of the exemplary connector with an optical ferrule received in the top portion.

[0058] FIG. 29 shows a bottom view of the top portion of the exemplary connector with an optical ferrule received in the top portion.

[0059] FIG. 30 shows a right-side view of the top portion of the exemplary connector with an optical ferrule received in the top portion.Atty. Docket: 014169-031990Customer #23380

[0060] FIG. 31 shows a top perspective view of the bottom portion of the exemplary connector.

[0061] FIG. 32 shows a top view of the bottom portion of the exemplary connector.

[0062] FIG. 33 shows a right-side view of the bottom portion of the exemplary connector.

[0063] FIG. 34 shows a top perspective view of a second exemplary connector.

[0064] FIG. 35 shows a bottom perspective view of the second exemplary connector.

[0065] FIG. 36 shows a front view of the second exemplary connector.

[0066] FIG. 37 shows a right side view of the second exemplary transceiver.

[0067] FIG. 38 shows a top view of the second exemplary transceiver.

[0068] FIG. 39 shows a top perspective view of a third exemplary connector.

[0069] FIG. 40 shows a bottom perspective view of the third exemplary connector.

[0070] FIG. 41 shows a front view of the third exemplary connector.

[0071] FIG. 42 shows a right side view of the third exemplary connector.

[0072] FIG. 43 shows a rear view of the third exemplary connector.

[0073] FIG. 44 shows a top perspective exploded view of a fourth exemplary connector.

[0074] FIG. 45 shows a top perspective view of the fourth exemplary connector.

[0075] FIG. 46 shows a front view of the fourth exemplary connector.

[0076] FIG. 47 shows a top view of the fourth exemplary connector.

[0077] FIG. 48 shows a right-side view of the fourth exemplary connector.

[0078] FIG. 49 shows a top perspective exploded view of a fifth exemplary connector.

[0079] FIG. 50 shows a top perspective view of the fifth exemplary connector.

[0080] FIG. 51 shows a right-side view of the fifth exemplary connector.

[0081] FIG. 52 shows a top view of the fifth exemplary connector.

[0082] FIG. 53 shows a top perspective exploded view of a sixth exemplary connector.

[0083] FIG. 54 shows a top perspective view of the sixth exemplary connector.Aty. Docket: 014169-031990Customer #23380

[0084] FIG. 55 shows a right-side view of the sixth exemplary connector.

[0085] FIG. 56 shows a top view of the sixth exemplary connector.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0086] The connector assembly includes a two-piece clam style connector body configured to house an MT ferrule. The connector body can have a deflectable locking member configured to engage corresponding features on a transceiver configured to receive the connector body. Therefore, the connector body can engage a transceiver using a tabbed connection. The connector body may include rugged elements that enable the use of MT ferrules and reliable fiber optic transmission in harsh environments. Used with an active device that includes powered optoelectronics, the connector maintains a stable connection from the MT ferrule into the device that converts the optical signals to electrical ones over a wide operating temperature and operating under wider shock and vibration profiles than found in the data / telecom industry. The disclosed assembly may be applied in a configuration of back-to-back use where two MT ferrules are clamped in a single housing which can be used inside of an electronics box connecting to a cable that has a box level exit connector or outside of the electronics box where the assembly is on a wall, panel, or rack mount. The disclosed assembly provides a means of securing the MT ferrule in a clam style connector that occupies substantially less space than conventional push-pull connectors and transceivers, thereby optimizing space within network devices and cabinets and improving manufacturing and repair / replacement of the connector.

[0087] A transceiver configured to receive the connector is also disclosed. The transceiver may have a two-piece body that can receive a standard QSFP optical engine and provides a card-edge connection. As such, the transceiver may be an alternative to standard QSFP transceivers. For instance, the transceiver may provide four Tx and four Rx 850nm SX / SR standard channels operating at 1, 10, or 40Gbps bonded Ethernet speeds.

[0088] The disclosed assembly utilizes the MT ferrule and its associated guide pins but replaces the MPO with a secure attachment via a deflectable locking member that attaches to the body of the transceiver with a hinge. The deflectable element may be made of a resilient material, like a metal, so that the deflectable element can be deformed while the connector is inserted into orAty. Docket: 014169-031990Customer #23380 removed from the receptacle in the transceiver and then return to its original shape to retain the connector in the transceiver. The disclosed assembly may be arranged for use with other types of ferrules or cable termini.

[0089] The disclosed subject matter is now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are generally used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the disclaimed subject matter. It may be evident, however, that aspects of the appended claims may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, structures and devices are shown in block diagram form in order to facilitate description.

[0090] Turning to FIGs. 1-18, a transceiver 10 will now be described. The transceiver 10 includes a two-piece housing 12 having a top portion 14 and a bottom portion 16 that are configured to be secured together. Once assembled, the housing 12 has a receptacle end 18 that is configured to receive and secure an optical connector as will be further described below. Opposite the receptacle end 18, the housing 12 has a card end 20. As illustrated, the top portion 14 and bottom portion 16 can each include respective fastener holes 22 that align when the top portion 14 and bottom portion 16 are properly aligned. The fastener holes 22 can be configured to receive screw, bolts, pins, rivets, or any other suitable mechanical fastener. The positioning and number of the fastener holes 22 can be determined through sound engineering judgement. For instance, as shown, the fastener holes 22 can be adjacent to the portion of the transceiver 10 configured to receive an optical connector.

[0091] As shown in FIGs. 1-9, the top portion 14 and bottom portion 16 can be configured to directly sandwich together to assemble the housing 12. Once placed together, the top portion 14 and bottom portion 16 can be secured together with the mechanical fasteners. Alternatively, as shown in FIGs. 10-18, the housing 12 can be a clam-shell style assembly where the top portion 14 and bottom portion 16 first engage and subsequently rotate together to align the fastener holes 22. In this configuration, the bottom portion 16 of the housing 12 can include a hook 30 that extends upward from each respective sidewall 32 of the bottom portion 16 near the card end 20 of the housing 12. Each hook 30 may have an open end 34 that is oriented toward the receptacle end 18 of the housing 12. The top portion 14 can include a ledge 36 in each respective sidewall 38 of the top portion 14 that corresponds to and engages each hook 30. To assemble the housing 12, theAty. Docket: 014169-031990Customer #23380 ledges 36 of the top portion 14 are placed in the open ends 34 of the corresponding hooks 30 in the bottom portion 16. The top portion 14 can be rotated toward the bottom portion 16 until the top portion 14 and the bottom portion 16 contact and are flush. Mechanical fasteners can then secure the top portion 14 and the bottom portion 16 together. As shown in FIGs. 10-18, the hooks 30 and ledges 36 are positioned at or adjacent to the card end 20 of the housing 12 and the mechanical fasteners are positioned at or adjacent to the receptacle end 18 of the housing 12. In an alternative embodiment, the hooks 30 and ledges 36 can be positioned at or adjacent to the receptacle end 18 of the housing 12 and the mechanical fasteners can be positioned at or adjacent to the card end 20 of the housing 12. In yet another alternative, the housing 12 can include additional securing features on either the top and bottom portion 16s like for instance to provide a snap fit connection between the top portion 14 and bottom portion 16. The housing 12 can be metal, polymer, glass-filled plastic, or any suitable material. It will be appreciated that a metal housing 12 can provide additional benefits over other materials that would be beneficial for rugged applications, specifically physical and thermal robustness.

[0092] The transceiver 10 can receive an optical signal, for instance from a connector having an MT ferrule and convert the optical signals to electrical signals. In this embodiment, as shown in FIGs. 3 and 12, the housing 12 of the transceiver 10 houses a common optical engine 40 comprising a lens array 42, which may be mounted to a printed circuit board (PCB) 44 together with the transceiver 10. At the card end 20, the transceiver 10 can have an exposed edge 46 of the printed circuit board. This exposed edge 46 of the PCB 44 may include electrical landings 48 for connecting and communicating with external electrical devices. For instance, the landings 48 may be configured to conform to industry-standard landing layouts for QSFP transceivers. It will be appreciated that other landing layouts are possible. In some embodiments, the transceiver 10 may include a compressible and conductive gasket 50 at the card end 20 of the housing 12. The conductive gasket 50 may shield against electromagnetic interference that may arise when the transceiver 10 is plugged into the connector on a host board.

[0093] The PCB 44 may be set between the top portion 14 and the bottom portion 16 of the housing 12 to eliminate stress on the PCB 44. To secure the PCB 44 within the housing 12, the bottom portion 16 of the housing 12 can be configured to receive the PCB 44. For instance, a top surface 60 of the bottom portion 16 of the housing 12 may have may a recess 62 configured toAty. Docket: 014169-031990Customer #23380 receive the PCB 44. At least one protrusion 64 may extend into this recess 62 to engage corresponding notches 66 in the sides of the PCB 44. As shown in FIG. 3, a protrusion 64 extends from each side of the bottom portion 16 to engage a corresponding notch 66 of each side of the PCB 44. The engagement of the protrusions 64 on the bottom portion 16 and the notches 66 in the PCB 44 ensure the positioning of the PCB 44 in the transceiver 10 such that the lens array 42 can engage a ferrule in a connector received in the receptacle end 18 of the transceiver 10 and the card edge of the PCB 44 extends out from the transceiver 10.

[0094] The top portion 14 of the housing 12 may be dimensioned to provide adequate space around the lens array 42. In an alternative embodiment, the top portion 14 could be configured to receive and engage the PCB 44 as described above and the bottom portion 16 could be a cap to secure the PCB 44. Further, to further secure the optical engine 40 to the housing 12, the housing 12 may include features 68 that extend downward from the top portion 14 of the housing 12 to engage cutouts 70 or bearing surfaces in the top of the optical engine 40. The features 68 may be inserted into the cutouts 70, and an adhesive or gap-filler may be used to fill in the space between the features 68 and the bearing surfaces 70. These features 68 may be generally cylindrical. The features may include a cutout to allow more gap-filler to be used between the pin and the bearing surface. In one implementation, the features may be pins 68 extending downward from the top portion 14 of the housing 12. The method of securing the optical engine 40 may relieve stress on the lens array 42 which is commonly attached to the PCB 44 with an adhesive.

[0095] The receptacle end 18 of the housing 12 is configured to receive and retain a connector, like an optical connector having an optical ferrule, for instance the optical connector described in further detail below. When the housing 12 is assembled, the receptacle end 18 has a port 80 that extends into the interior of the housing 12. The port 80 is configured to receive the connector and provides access to the optical engine 40. An EMI shield 82 can be disposed around the receptacle end 18 to prevent electrical interference around the hole in a panel of a network device assembly or cabinet. To retain the connector within the port 80, a shoulder 84 at least partially extends into the port 80 from either side of the port 80 and partially extends into the interior of the housing 12. The shoulder 84 on each side of the port 80 can engage a deflectable locking member on the connector to compress it to allow the connector to be fully inserted into the port 80. Because the shoulder 84 only extends partially into the housing 12, once the connector has been inserted to aAty. Docket: 014169-031990Customer #23380 depth where the ferrule engages the optical engine 40, the deflectable locking member can return to its original shape and retain the connector in the housing 12 with the engagement of the deflectable locking member and the shoulder 84.

[0096] The transceiver 10 can provide multiple benefits over existing solutions, like QSFP transceivers. For instance, the transceiver 10 can provide substantial space savings in cabinets and assemblies. For instance, the overall length of the transceiver 10 can be minimized as much as 40% compared to a standard QSFP transceiver. Further, when installed in a network device assembly or cabinet, the port 80 of the transceiver 10 can be substantially flush with the face of the network device assembly. The transceiver 10 can be made of metal and may include heat sink fins 86 on the top portion 14 and / or bottom portion 16 to improve thermal management and reliability in rugged applications. Finally, the transceiver 10 can be secured with mechanical fasteners when installed in the network device assembly or cabinet thereby providing robust and secure positioning of the transceiver 10 and removing the necessity of a cage style design common to QSFP transceivers.

[0097] Turning to FIGs. 19-56, a connector 200 will be described. The connector 200 can house an MT ferrule 202 configured to engage an optical engine 40. While the connector 200 is described as housing an MT ferrule 202, it will be appreciated that the connector 200 can be used to secure other types of data communication ferrules or termini. The connector 200 can have a clam-style body 204 having a top portion 206 and a bottom portion 208 configured to be joined together and secured together around a ferrule assembly. When connected to an active or passive optical device, a front face 222 of the MT ferrule 202 may be biased into engagement with another device to ensure proper alignment and engagement of the MT ferrule 202 and the optical fibers the MT ferrule 202 houses. The ferrule assembly includes an MT ferrule 202, guide pins 210 connected by a pin clamp, a resilient member 212, and the boot 214 configured to support optical cable 228 connected to the ferrule 202 in the connector 200. The resilient member 212 can be a spring. For instance, the spring can be an obround spring commonly used with MPO connectors and MT ferrules. As will be described below, the resilient member 212 is disposed within the connector 200 to bias the MT ferrule 202, guide pins 210, and pin clamp toward the front face 222 of the connector 200. The connector 200 has a front opening 220 that extends through a front face 222 of the connector 200 through which the MT ferrule 202 extends to allow engagement with anotherAty. Docket: 014169-031990Customer #23380 optical device. Similarly, the connector 200 has a rear opening 224 that extends through a rear face 226 of the connector 200 configured to receive the fiber optic ribbon or cable 228.

[0098] The boot 214 can have a proximal end 230 that is configured to engage the body 204 of the connector 200 at the rear face 226 and a distal end 232 opposite the proximal end 230. In some embodiments, as shown in FIGs. 19-43, the rear opening 224 may be sized and configured to receive a portion of the boot 214 such that the portion of the boot 214 is retained within the connector 200 when the top portion 206 of the body 204 and the bottom portion 208 of the body 204 are secured together. In other embodiments, as shown in FIGs. 44-56, the rear opening 224 may extend through an extension 234 that extends from the rear face 226 of the body 204. In this configuration, the proximal end 230 of the boot 214 can be engaged with and secured to the extension 234. The proximal end 230 of the boot 214 can be sized and configured to be placed over the extension 234 such that a portion of the distal end 232 encompasses the extension 234. For example, the proximal end 230 of the boot 214 may slide over the extension 234. The boot 214 can be secured to the extension 234 to retain the boot 214 on the extension 234. For instance, the boot 214 may be retained on the extension 234 with a mechanical interference fit, like a snap fit connection. As illustrated, the extension 234 may include at least one protrusion 236 that extends from the surface of the extension 234 that corresponds with and is configured to engage at least one hole or ledge 238 in the distal end 232 of the boot 214. Alternatively, the boot 214 can be secured to the connector 200 with a screw, pin, rivet, or so other suitable mechanical fastener. As illustrated, the connector 200 may be wider near the rear face 226 of the connector 200 than at the front face 222 of the connector 200. The wider end of the connector 200 allows for the shortest overall connector 200 length while maintaining an isolated channel for the fiber and proving sufficient space for the mechanical fasteners to secure the top portion 206 and the bottom portion 208 of the connector 200 together.

[0099] As shown in FIGs. 21, 29-33, 44, 49, and 53, the top portion 206 of the connector 200 and the bottom portion 208 of the connector 200 may include internal features that engage the components of the ferrule assembly. These internal features may help retain and ensure alignment of the components of the ferrule assembly while the connector 200 is assembled and in use. Further, these features may assist with the assembly of the connector 200. For instance, the top portion 206 of the connector 200 may have a front internal cavity 242 near the front opening 220.Aty. Docket: 014169-031990Customer #23380The front internal cavity 242 is defined by a front wall 244, two sidewalls 246, the internal surface 248 of the top connector 200 and at least one pin 250 that extend downward from the internal surface of the connector 200. The front internal cavity 242 is configured to receive the MT ferrule 202, the guide pins 210 and guide pin clamp, and the resilient member 212. The guide pins 210 and guide pin clamp 216 can be inserted in the MT ferrule 202 and placed in the front internal cavity 242 such that the MT ferrule 202 can slidably move along the longitudinal axis of the connector 200. The resilient member 212 can be placed in the front cavity 242 between the back of the guide pin clamp 216 and the pins to bias the MT ferrule 202 toward and out of the front opening 220 until a portion of the MT ferrule 202 engages the front wall 244. The resilient member 212 can help retain the ferrule assembly in the connector 200 while the connector 200 is being assembled. Therefore, it will be appreciated that the internal features of the top portion 206 allow the assembly of the MT ferrule 202, pin clamp 216, and resilient member 212 to be retained before the bottom portion 208 of the body 204 and mechanical fasteners are secured to the top portion 206.

[0100] The top portion 206 of the connector 200 may have a rear internal cavity 260 near the rear opening 224. The rear internal cavity 260 is defined by a rear wall 262, two sidewalls 264, the internal surface 266 of the top portion 206 and the at least one pin 250. In some embodiments, the rear internal cavity 260 is configured to receive a ledge 268 of the boot 214 to secure the boot 214 in the rear opening 224 of the connector 200. The boot 214 may be a split boot configured to be placed around the fiber optic ribbon or cable 228 after fiber optics have been terminated with a ferrule 202. As shown, the body204 can be configured to receive a flat fiber optic ribbon / cable, and the ledge 268 of the boot 214 can be generally rectangular or obround. Alternatively, in FIGs. 53-56 the body 204 can be configured to receive a round fiber optic ribbon / cable. As such, the boot 214 may be generally circular. The boot 214 can have a circular ledge 268 configured to be received within the rear internal cavity 260. In some embodiments the boot can have a circular proximal end 230 of the boot configured to engage an extension of the body 204 as described above.

[0101] The bottom portion 208 of the connector 200 may also include internal features configured to engage and secure the components of the ferrule assembly. Specifically, the bottom portion 208 of the connector 200 includes an internal cavity 270 defined by the rear wall 272, theAty. Docket: 014169-031990Customer #23380 sidewalls 274, the front wall 278, and the internal surface 276 of the bottom portion 208. Near the front wall 278 of the bottom portion 208, a stop 280 extends upwards from the internal surface 276 of the bottom portion 208. The stop 280 is configured to engage the MT ferrule 202 to retain the ferrule 202 in the connector 200 and prevent axial movement along the longitudinal axis of the connector 200. The internal cavity 270 of the bottom portion 208 of the connector 200 may include a ramp 282 extending down from each sidewall 274 toward the internal surface 276 of the bottom portion 208 of the connector 200. These ramps 282 may be shaped according to the shape and / or profile of the resilient member 212. When the connector 200 is assembled, these ramps 282 may support the resilient member 212 to prevent radial movement of the resilient member 212 when the resilient member 212 is compressed. The internal cavity 270 may also have an area opposite from the rear internal cavity 260 of the top portion 206 of the connector 200 that is also configured to receive the ledge 268 of the boot 214.

[0102] To assemble the connector 200, the top portion 206 of the connector 200 includes features configured to engage features the bottom portion 208 of the connector 200 to secure the top portion 206 and bottom portion 208 together. The top portion 206 of the connector 200 can be secured to the bottom portion 208 of the connector 200 directly, or sandwich-style, or the parts can be engaged and rotated together, or clam-style. A clam-style embodiment is illustrated in the figures. The bottom portion 208 of the connector 200 includes an alignment tab 290 extending toward the front of the bottom portion 208 from each sidewall 274. The alignment tab 290 on each sidewall 274 is configured to engage a key way 292 of a hook 294 on each sidewall 246 of the top portion 206 of the connector 200. Once the alignment tabs 290 are engaged with the keyways 292, the bottom portion 208 can be rotated toward the top portion 206, and the top portion 206 can be secured to the bottom portion 208 with corresponding fastener holes 296 in the top portion 206 and bottom portion 208. The fastener holes 296 may be configured to receive screws, bolts, pins, rivets, or any other suitable mechanical fastener. The top portion 206 and bottom portion 208 can be made of a robust and resilient material like a metal or polymer. In an alternative embodiment, the top portion 206 and the bottom portion 208 may also include features that snap-fit or press fit together to secure the top portion 206 and bottom portion 208 together.

[0103] In common MPO connectors, the MT ferrule 202 is floating, and a bias is provided by a spring within the connector 200 similar to the connector 200 described above. The MPOAty. Docket: 014169-031990Customer #23380 connector configuration is not reliable in rugged environments where increased vibrations may cause the MT ferrule 202 to become disengaged or misaligned. The connector 200 includes a deflectable locking member 300 secured to the top portion 206 of the connector 200. The engagement of this locking member 300 with corresponding features of a port in a receptacle provides a more robust connection that can be used in rugged applications.

[0104] A securing member 302 secures the locking member 300 to the top portion 206 of the connector 200. Each of the securing member 302, the locking member 300, and the top portion 206, are separate components that are assembled to establish the interface between the connector 200 and the receptacle. The securing member 302, in one embodiment, is in the form of a fastener that secures the locking member to the housing. The securing member 302 may be, for example, a threaded fastener that engages the coordinating threaded opening in the top potion of the connection housing. In another embodiment, more than one securing member 302 , like multiple threaded fasteners, may be used to secure the locking member 300 to the top portion 206. In other embodiments, the locking member 300 may include a securing member 302 that is press fit into a coordinating receiving opening in the top portion 206 to secure the locking member to the housing. In further embodiments, the locking member may be riveted, welded, swaged, etc. to the top portion 206. In an alternative embodiment, the locking member 300 may be integrally formed with the top portion 206.

[0105] The locking member 300 includes a base 304 having an opening 306 that aligns with an opening in the top portion 206 of the connector 200 to receive the securing member 302. Extending from the base is a deflectable portion 308. The deflectable portion 308 has a first end 310 extending from the base 304 and a second end 312 that is distal from the base 304 and can be engaged by a user. The deflectable portion 308 is designed to deflect adjacent the base 304 near the first end 310 similar to a living hinge to allow for axial movement of the connector 200 when the connector 200 is inserted into the receptacle or removed from the receptacle. The deflectable portion 308 may include wings 314 extending outward from a side 316 of the deflectable portion 308 between the first end 310 and the second end 312 to prevent removal of the connector 200 from the receptacle. The wings 314 may extend both outwardly and upwardly to engage corresponding features in the receptable, for instance the shoulders 84 of the receptacle described above, to prevent movement of the connector 200 in the axial direction and provide stability so that the connector 200 has noAty. Docket: 014169-031990Customer #23380 or little rearward movement relative to the receptacle. The locking member 300 may include an embossment 318 on the deflectable portion 308 to improve the stiffness and rigidity of the locking member 300. As such, the embossment 318 creates a more precise pivot point for the actuation of the latching feature of the locking member 300. The embossment 318 further provides resistance to fatigue under repeated loading conditions as the connector 200 is installed and removed from a receptacle.

[0106] In some embodiments, the base 304 of the locking member 300 is received within a recess 320 that extends into an external surface of the top portion 206 of the body 204. The recess 320 is sized and configured to receive the base 304 and may prevent movement, like rotational movement, of the locking member 300 when the locking member 300 is secure to the top portion 206 of the connector 200. Tn other embodiments, as illustrated in FIGs. 49-52, the top surface 60 of the top portion 206 may be substantially flat, and one or more ribs 322 may extend up from the surface to engage an edge of the base 304 to prevent rotational movement of the locking member 300.

[0107] The locking member 300 can be placed at any location on the top surface of the top portion 206 of the connector 200 to allow for different insertion depths for varying connector applications. For instance, as illustrated in FIGs. 19-27, the locking member is secured to the top portion 206 of the connector 200 near the front face 222 of the connector 200. In another embodiment illustrated in FIGs. 34-38, the locking member is secured to the top portion 206 of the connector 200 near the front face 222 of a connector 200 having a longer housing length. In another embodiment illustrated in FIGs. 39-43, the locking member is secured to the top portion 206 of the connector 200 near the rear face 226 of a connector 200 having a longer housing length. It will be appreciated that the length of the body 204 of the connector 200 and the positioning of the locking member can be determined with sound engineering judgement based on the optical device the connector 200 will be used with.

[0108] The connector 200 can be coupled with a corresponding receptable, like the receptacle end 18 of the transceiver 10 described above. To install the connector 200, the user can apply axial force to the connector 200 to push it into the port 80 in the receptacle end 18. As the connector 200 moves into the port 80 of the receptacle end 18, the deflectable portion deflects toward the base of the locking member and the top portion 206 of the connector 200 by the engagement ofAty. Docket: 014169-031990Customer #23380 the wings and the shoulders 84 of the port 80. Once the connector 200 has been pushed far enough into the port 80, the deflectable portion can return to its original shape, and the wings engage the shoulders 84 to retain the connector 200 in the receptacle. To remove the connector 200 from the receptable, a user can squeeze the deflectable portion toward the top portion 206 of the connector 200 to disengage the wings from the shoulders 84 and pull the connector 200 away from the receptacle. The locking member 300 may also include an optional flange 324 extending upward from a substantially planar portion of the deflectable portion 308 at the second end 312 to provide an area for a user to engage (i.e., provide a gripping surface) during intentional removal of the connector 200 without the use of a tool. The length of the flange 324 can be selected based on sound engineering judgment. The locking member 300 may be made of a suitable deflectable material that will return to its original shape, such as hardened stainless steel, copper, or beryllium. The connector 200 can be made of similar materials.[001091 The connector 200 provides benefits over existing common connectors. The locking member 300 has a shorter length that aids in retention and ruggedness, aids in the locking member 300 deflecting adjacent to the base and provides a self-reinforcing fit that tightens the harder the cable 228 is pulled. The locking member 300 thereby prevents accidental removal of the connector 200 from a corresponding receptable. The locking member 300 and the materials used for the connector 200 improve physical and thermal robustness compared to conventional connectors like an MPO connector 200 which use glass filled plastic. Further, the clam-style or sandwich-style connector 200 is easier to manufacture and repair compared to conventional connectors. Current MPO connectors must be slid onto the fiber optics cable prior to the termination of MT ferrule 202 and prior to the assembly of the connector 200. Conversely, all of the components of the connector 200 can be assembled around the MT ferrule 202 after it has been terminated and polished.

[0110] Finally, the connector 200 and transceiver 10 provide a more compact connection system than existing conventional connectors allowing users to optimize space within cabinets and network devices used in rugged applications or other optical applications. For instance, when the connector 200 is inserted into a transceiver 10 as disclosed, the stack up length of the assembly is substantially smaller than the stack up length of other conventional connectors and transceivers. Further, it will be appreciated that the connector 200 and the deflectable locking member are configured as an asymmetrical connector. The asymmetry of the connector 200 allows it toAty. Docket: 014169-031990Customer #23380 interface with surface mounting components on PCBs that have minimal clearance to the top surface of the circuit board.

[0111] The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean serving as an example, instance or illustration. Any aspect or design described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as advantageous over other aspects or designs. Rather, use of the word exemplary is intended to present concepts in a concrete fashion. As used in this application, the term “or” is intended to mean an inclusive “or” rather than an exclusive “or.” That is, unless specified otherwise, or clear from context, “X employs A or B” is intended to mean any of the natural inclusive permutations. That is, if X employs A; X employs B; or X employs both A and B, then “X employs A or B” is satisfied under any of the foregoing instances. Further, at least one of A and B and / or the like generally means A or B or both A and B. In addition, the articles “a” and “an” as used in this application and the appended claims may generally be construed to mean “one or more” unless specified otherwise or clear from context to be directed to a singular form.

[0112] Although the subject matter has been described in language specific to structural features and / or methodological acts, it is to be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described above. Rather, the specific features and acts described above are disclosed as example forms of implementing the claims. Of course, those skilled in the art will recognize many modifications may be made to this configuration without departing from the scope or spirit of the claimed subject matter.

[0113] Also, although the disclosure has been shown and described with respect to one or more implementations, equivalent alterations and modifications will occur to others skilled in the art based upon a reading and understanding of this specification and the annexed drawings. The disclosure includes all such modifications and alterations and is limited only by the scope of the following claims. In particular regard to the various functions performed by the above described components (e.g., elements, resources, etc ), the terms used to describe such components are intended to correspond, unless otherwise indicated, to any component which performs the specified function of the described component (e.g., that is functionally equivalent), even though not structurally equivalent to the disclosed structure which performs the function in the herein illustrated exemplary implementations of the disclosure.Aty. Docket: 014169-031990Customer #23380

[0114] In addition, while a particular feature of the disclosure may have been disclosed with respect to only one of several implementations, such feature may be combined with one or more other features of the other implementations as may be desired and advantageous for any given or particular application. Furthermore, to the extent that the terms “includes,” “having,” “has,” “with,” or variants thereof are used in either the detailed description or the claims, such terms are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising.”

[0115] The implementations have been described, hereinabove. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the above methods and apparatuses may incorporate changes and modifications without departing from the general scope of the claims. It is intended to include all such modifications and alterations in so far as they come within the scope of the appended claims or the equivalents thereof.

Claims

Aty. Docket: 014169-031990Customer #23380What is claimed is:

1. A fiber optic connector assembly comprising: a housing having a first portion and a second portion, wherein the first portion and the second portion are secured together around a ferrule, the ferrule extending out of an opening that extends through the front face of the connector; and a deflectable locking member secured to the first portion, wherein the locking member is configured to retain the connector in a receptable of a fiber optic device.

2. The fiber optic connector of claim 1, the locking member comprising a base portion attached to the first portion of the housing and a deflectable portion connected the base portion and configured to deflect toward the based member.

3. The fiber optic connector of claim 2, the locking member further comprising a wing extending outwardly and upwardly from each side of the deflectable portion, wherein the wings are configured to engage shoulders of a receptable to retain the connector within the receptacle.

4. The fiber optic connector of claim 2, the deflectable portion having an embossment configured to provide stiffness to the deflectable portion.

5. The fiber optic connector of claim 2, the locking member further comprising a flange that is angled relative to the deflectable portion, the flange being configured to provide an engagement surface.

6. The fiber optic connector of claim 1, further comprising a resilient member between the first portion and the second portion configured to bias the ferrule toward a front face of the connector.

7. The fiber optic connector of claim 6, wherein the bottom portion includes a ledge configured to engage the ferrule to limit how far the ferrule extends out of the opening.Atty. Docket: 014169-031990Customer #233808. The fiber optic connector of claim 6, the first portion of the housing includes at least one pin extending into a cavity of the first portion, wherein one end of the resilient member engages the at least one pin and an opposite end of the resilient member provides the bias force to the ferrule.

9. The fiber optic connector of claim 6, the first portion and / or the second portion of the housing including a ramp extending down from each side wall toward an internal surface of the respective portion, the ramps being shaped to receive the resilient member and configured to receive the resilient member within a cavity of the connector.

10. The fiber optic connector of claim 1, the second portion comprising an alignment tab extending toward a front of the second portion and configured to engage keyways proximal to the front of the first portion, wherein the alignment tabs are received into the keyways and second portion can be rotated toward the first portion to secure the first portion and the second portion together.

11. The fiber optic connector of claim 1, wherein the first portion and the second portion are secured together with a mechanical fastener.

12. The fiber optic connector of claim 1, wherein the top portion includes at least one rib extending upward from a top surface of the top portion, the at least one rib configured to engage an edge of the locking member to prevent the locking member from rotating.

13. The fiber optic connector of claim 2, wherein the top portion includes a recess extending into a top surface of the top portion, the recess being configured to receive and engage the base of the locking member to prevent the locking member from rotating.

14. The fiber optic connector of claim 2, further comprising a cable boot, wherein a proximal end of the cable boot is secured to an extension extending from the rear face of the housing.

15. A fiber optic transceiver assembly comprising:Aty. Docket: 014169-031990Customer #23380 a housing comprising: a top portion and a bottom portion, wherein the top portion and the bottom portion are secured together; a cavity formed between the top portion and the botom portion, the cavity configured to receive an optical engine comprising a lens array mounted to a printed circuit board; and a port in a receptacle end of the housing, wherein the port is configured to receive an optical connector such that an optical ferrule in the connector will engage the optical engine, and wherein the printed circuit board at least partially extends out of a card end of the housing.

16. The fiber optic transceiver of claim 15, the bottom portion having a recess configured to receive the printed circuit board, wherein at least one projection extends into the recess from a side wall of the bottom portion to engage at least one corresponding notch in the printed circuit board.

17. The fiber optic transceiver of claim 15, the top portion comprising at least one pin that extends down into the cavity, the at least one pin being configured to engage cutouts in a top of the optical engine.

18. The fiber optic transceiver of claim 17, wherein the at least one pin is secured in the cutouts with a gap filler material.

19. The fiber optic transceiver of claim 15, wherein each sidewall of the top portion includes a ledge at the card end of the housing and each sidewall of the bottom portion includes a hook at the card end of the housing, each hook having an open end oriented toward the receptacle end of the housing that is configured to receive the corresponding ledge of the top portion, wherein the ledges are received into the open ends and top portion can be rotated toward the bottom portion to secure the first portion and the second portion together.Aty. Docket: 014169-031990 Customer #2338020. The fiber optic transceiver of claim 15, wherein a shoulder partially extends into the port from each side of the port, the shoulders being configured to engage a portion of the optical connector to retain the optical connector within the port.

21. The fiber optic transceiver of claim 15, wherein the top portion and the bottom portion are secured together with a mechanical fastener.

22. The fiber optic transceiver of claim 15, wherein the housing is made from metal.

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