Fiber-optic junction box assembly, fiber-optic junction box and cable coiling rack

Abstract

A fiber-optic junction box assembly, a cable coiling rack (1) and a fiber-optic junction box (2). The fiber-optic junction box assembly comprises the cable coiling rack (1) and the fiber-optic junction box (2). The cable coiling rack (1) comprises a support plate (13), wherein the support plate (13) is provided with a plurality of first fastening structures (131), and the plurality of first fastening structures (131) are in an annular arrangement. The fiber-optic junction box (2) comprises a back plate (21), wherein the back plate (21) is provided with recesses (210) and a plurality of second fastening structures (211), and the plurality of second fastening structures (211) are located in the recesses (210) and are in an annular arrangement. The plurality of first fastening structures (131) are configured to slot into the recesses (210) and respectively fasten to the plurality of second fastening structures (211), and the fiber-optic junction box (2) is configured to switch, by means of rotation, the first fastening structures (131) and the second fastening structures (211) between an engaged state and a disengaged state.

Description

Fiber optic junction box assembly, fiber optic junction box and cable tray

[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202423322336.8, filed on December 31, 2024, entitled "Fiber Optic Connector Assembly, Fiber Optic Connector Box and Cable Reel", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This application relates to the field of communication technology, and in particular to an optical fiber connector assembly, an optical fiber connector box, and a cable tray. Background Technology

[0003] Fiber optic connector boxes are used to connect to optical fibers or cables. In some scenarios, if the cable connected to the connector box is too long, the excess cable needs to be coiled up before connecting it to the connector box. Therefore, fiber optic connector boxes are generally used in conjunction with cable trays. The cable tray is wall-mounted, and the fiber optic connector box is fixed to the cable tray.

[0004] In related technologies, cable trays and fiber optic connector boxes are assembled together using screws. However, this screw assembly method is inefficient and increases the cost of the screws. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides an optical fiber connector assembly, an optical fiber connector, and a cable tray. The optical fiber connector and the cable tray are assembled together by snap-fit, resulting in high assembly efficiency. The technical solutions for the optical fiber connector assembly, the optical fiber connector, and the cable tray are described below.

[0006] In a first aspect, this application provides an optical fiber connector assembly. The optical fiber connector assembly includes a cable tray and an optical fiber connector. The cable tray includes a support plate with a plurality of first snap-fit ​​structures arranged in a ring. The optical fiber connector includes a back plate with a groove and a plurality of second snap-fit ​​structures located in the groove and arranged in a ring. The plurality of first snap-fit ​​structures are used to extend into the groove and respectively snap onto the plurality of second snap-fit ​​structures. The optical fiber connector is used to switch between a snap-fit ​​state and a disengaged state of the first and second snap-fit ​​structures by rotation. The second snap-fit ​​structure snapped by each first snap-fit ​​structure is replaceable, allowing the optical fiber connector to be fixed to the cable tray in multiple orientations.

[0007] Cable trays are used to coil optical fibers or optical cables, and can also be called fiber coiling racks. Fiber optic junction boxes are used to connect optical fibers or optical cables, and can also be called optical cable junction boxes. Fiber optic junction boxes include access terminal boxes (ATBs), fiber access terminals (FATs), and splitting and splicing closures (SSCs), etc.

[0008] During the assembly of the fiber optic connector box assembly, the multiple second snap-fit ​​structures are first staggered from the multiple first snap-fit ​​structures. Then, the fiber optic connector box is pressed down, causing the multiple first snap-fit ​​structures to extend into the grooves. Next, the fiber optic connector box is rotated in one direction, causing the multiple second snap-fit ​​structures to engage with the multiple first snap-fit ​​structures. When it is necessary to disassemble the fiber optic connector box, it is rotated in another direction, causing the second snap-fit ​​structures to separate from the first snap-fit ​​structures.

[0009] The technical solution provided in this application, firstly, involves setting multiple first snap-fit ​​structures on the support plate of the cable tray and multiple second snap-fit ​​structures on the back plate of the fiber optic connector box, enabling the cable tray and the fiber optic connector box to be fixed together by snapping together using the first and second snap-fit ​​structures. This eliminates the need for screws, simplifies the assembly operation of the fiber optic connector box assembly, and improves assembly efficiency.

[0010] Secondly, by rotating the fiber optic connector box, the first and second locking structures can switch between locked and unlocked states. This facilitates the operator's application of force and avoids some dangers that may arise from plug-and-play locking, such as the risk of the operator falling or bumping into something when pulling out the connector. It also prevents the cable tray from being pulled off the wall during disassembly of the fiber optic connector box. Furthermore, it prevents the second locking structure from failing to engage with the first locking structure due to the weight of the connector box after repeated disassembly and reassembly.

[0011] Furthermore, by setting a groove in the back panel and placing the second snap-fit ​​structure within the groove, the second snap-fit ​​structure will not protrude from the surface of the back panel, or the protrusion will be very small. This is beneficial for using the fiber optic connector box alone in certain scenarios, such as mounting the fiber optic connector box on a wall independently. Moreover, the groove can initially limit the position of the first snap-fit ​​structure, facilitating the operator's assembly of the fiber optic connector box assembly.

[0012] Furthermore, since the second snap-fit ​​structure connected to the first snap-fit ​​structure is replaceable, the fiber optic connector box can be fixed to the cable tray in multiple orientations. Because the multiple first and second snap-fit ​​structures are arranged in a ring, the orientation of the interface of the fiber optic connector box differs in each orientation. This allows the fiber optic connector box to be individually removed and its orientation adjusted after the cable tray is mounted on the wall, ensuring that the fiber output direction (i.e., the orientation of the interface) better suits the actual application scenario.

[0013] In one implementation, multiple first snap-fit ​​structures are identical in structure and uniformly arranged circumferentially. And / or, multiple second snap-fit ​​structures are identical in structure and uniformly arranged circumferentially. Thus, each first snap-fit ​​structure can snap into any second snap-fit ​​structure, allowing the fiber optic connector box to be fixed to the cable tray in various orientations.

[0014] In one implementation, the support plate includes four first snap-fit ​​structures, and the back plate includes four second snap-fit ​​structures. Each first snap-fit ​​structure can snap onto any second snap-fit ​​structure, allowing the fiber optic connector box to be fixed to the cable tray in four orientations. The fiber optic connector box rotates 90° in one orientation and then switches to another. These four orientations can be the fiber optic connector box with its interface facing down, up, left, and right, respectively.

[0015] In one implementation, the backplane includes multiple grooves arranged in a ring. Multiple second snap-fit ​​structures are located in the multiple grooves, and multiple first snap-fit ​​structures are respectively inserted into the multiple grooves. Thus, during the assembly of the fiber optic connector assembly, the multiple first snap-fit ​​structures can be aligned with the multiple grooves, and then the fiber optic connector assembly can be manipulated to allow the multiple first snap-fit ​​structures to extend into the multiple grooves and engage with the second snap-fit ​​structures within the grooves.

[0016] In one implementation, the groove is an annular groove, which is used to accommodate multiple second snap-fit ​​structures and multiple first snap-fit ​​structures.

[0017] In one implementation, multiple first snap-fit ​​structures are also used for rotatable connection with the sidewall of the groove. Thus, once the multiple first snap-fit ​​structures are inserted into the groove, the fiber optic connector box can only rotate or separate from the cable tray, without wobbling. This facilitates the snap-fit ​​of the first and second snap-fit ​​structures, and consequently, the assembly of the fiber optic connector box assembly.

[0018] In one implementation, the first snap-fit ​​structure includes a first baffle, and a first limiting groove is formed between the first baffle and the support plate. The second snap-fit ​​structure includes a second baffle, and a second limiting groove is formed between the second baffle and the bottom of the groove. The first baffle is used to extend into the second limiting groove, and the second baffle is used to extend into the first limiting groove, so as to achieve axial limiting of the first snap-fit ​​structure and the second snap-fit ​​structure.

[0019] In one implementation, one of the first baffle and the second baffle is provided with a protruding post, which is used to make an interference fit with the other of the first baffle and the second baffle to achieve circumferential positioning of the first snap-fit ​​structure and the second snap-fit ​​structure.

[0020] In one implementation, one of the first and second snap-fit ​​structures includes a snap-fit ​​strip, and the other includes a stop block. The snap-fit ​​strip includes a hook located on the rotation path of the stop block. During rotation of the fiber optic connector box in a first direction, the hook passes over and engages with the stop block, thereby limiting the circumferential movement of the first and second snap-fit ​​structures. During rotation of the fiber optic connector box in a second direction, the hook passes over and separates from the stop block, thereby releasing the circumferential limitation of the first and second snap-fit ​​structures.

[0021] In one implementation, the snap-fit ​​strip includes a first segment and a second segment. The first segment is connected to a back plate or support plate, and the second segment is separate from the back plate or support plate, and the second segment is equipped with a snap hook. This facilitates the deformation of the second segment and causes the snap hook to swing, allowing the snap hook to smoothly pass over the stop block.

[0022] In one implementation, the backplate also includes multiple guide structures. These guide structures are arranged circumferentially opposite to the second snap-fit ​​structure. The side of the guide structure facing the second snap-fit ​​structure is a guide slope, which guides the first snap-fit ​​structure to extend between the guide structure and the second snap-fit ​​structure. This achieves the initial positioning of the fiber optic connector box and cable tray.

[0023] In one implementation, the back panel further includes wall mounting holes, with the grooves arranged around the wall mounting holes. This makes full use of the remaining area on the back panel to arrange the wall mounting holes, allowing the fiber optic connector box to be used independently on a wall.

[0024] In one implementation, the support plate includes an opening opposite to a wall-mounting hole, and a plurality of first snap-fit ​​structures are arranged around the opening. The opening allows an operator's fingers to pass through, facilitating fiber optic or cable coiling operations.

[0025] In one implementation, the cable reel frame further includes a mounting plate and a cable reel cylinder, with one end of the cable reel cylinder connected to the mounting plate and the other end connected to a support plate. The cable reel frame is an injection-molded part, and the injection holes corresponding to the multiple first snap-fit ​​structures communicate with the interior of the cable reel cylinder.

[0026] In one implementation, the edge of the support plate includes perforations for cable ties to pass through, which are used to secure optical cables or fibers. When the fiber optic connector is fixed to the cable tray, at least one perforation is located on the outside of the connector. This allows the cable ties to secure the optical cable to the support plate through the perforations, effectively limiting the cable's position, preventing cable tangling, and facilitating a stable connection between the optical cable and the connector.

[0027] In one implementation, the support plate includes perforations on all four edges. When the fiber optic connector is fixed to the cable tray, the connector interface blocks the perforation on one edge, while the perforations on the other three edges are located on the outside of the connector. This facilitates the positioning of the fiber optic cable in various orientations of the connector.

[0028] Secondly, this application provides an optical fiber connector box. The optical fiber connector box includes a back panel. The back panel has a plurality of second snap-fit ​​structures arranged in a ring. The plurality of second snap-fit ​​structures are used to snap onto cable trays.

[0029] In one implementation, multiple second snap-fit ​​structures have the same structure and are evenly arranged along the circumferential direction.

[0030] In one implementation, the number of second snap-fit ​​structures is four.

[0031] In one implementation, the back plate also includes a groove in which multiple second snap-fit ​​structures are fixed.

[0032] In one implementation, there are multiple grooves arranged in a ring. Each groove is used to accommodate a second snap-fit ​​structure.

[0033] In one implementation, the groove is an annular groove, which is used to accommodate multiple second snap-fit ​​structures.

[0034] In one implementation, the back panel also includes wall mounting holes, with grooves arranged around the wall mounting holes.

[0035] In one implementation, the second snap-fit ​​structure includes a second baffle, and a second limiting groove is included between the second baffle and the back plate.

[0036] In one implementation, the second baffle is provided with a protruding post.

[0037] In one implementation, the second snap-fit ​​structure includes a stop.

[0038] In one implementation, the back plate is further provided with multiple guide structures, which are arranged circumferentially opposite to the second snap-fit ​​structure, and the side of the guide structure facing the second snap-fit ​​structure is a guide slope.

[0039] Thirdly, this application provides a cable reel rack. The cable reel rack includes a mounting plate, a cable reel cylinder, and a support plate. One end of the cable reel cylinder is connected to the mounting plate, and the other end is connected to the support plate. The support plate has multiple first snap-fit ​​structures arranged in a ring. These multiple first snap-fit ​​structures are used to snap-fit ​​fiber optic connector boxes. The multiple first snap-fit ​​structures can be located on the side of the support plate facing away from the mounting plate.

[0040] In one implementation, multiple first snap-fit ​​structures are arranged around the central axis of the cable reel.

[0041] In one implementation, multiple first snap-fit ​​structures have the same structure and are evenly arranged along the circumferential direction.

[0042] In one implementation, the number of the first snap-fit ​​structure is four.

[0043] In one implementation, the support plate includes an opening, and a plurality of first snap-fit ​​structures are arranged around the opening.

[0044] In one implementation, the injection holes corresponding to multiple first snap-fit ​​structures connect to the interior of the cable drum.

[0045] In one implementation, the edge of the support plate includes perforations for straps to pass through, which are used to secure optical cables or fibers.

[0046] In one implementation, all four edges of the support plate include perforations.

[0047] In one implementation, the first snap-fit ​​structure includes a first baffle, and a first limiting groove is included between the first baffle and the support plate.

[0048] In one implementation, the first baffle is provided with a protruding post.

[0049] In one implementation, the first snap-fit ​​structure includes a snap-fit ​​strip, and the snap-fit ​​strip includes a snap hook.

[0050] In one implementation, the snap-fit ​​strip includes a first segment and a second segment. The first segment is connected to the support plate, and the second segment is separate from the support plate and is provided with a snap hook. Attached Figure Description

[0051] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of an optical fiber connector assembly provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0052] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of an optical fiber connector assembly provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0053] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of an optical fiber connector assembly in a first posture according to an embodiment of this application;

[0054] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of an optical fiber connector assembly in a second posture according to an embodiment of this application;

[0055] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of an optical fiber connector assembly in a third posture according to an embodiment of this application;

[0056] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of an optical fiber connector assembly in a fourth posture according to an embodiment of this application;

[0057] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of the assembly process of an optical fiber connector assembly provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0058] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of a cable tray provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0059] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram of an optical fiber connection box provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0060] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of the snap-fit ​​process of a first snap-fit ​​structure and a second snap-fit ​​structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0061] Figure 11 is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the snap-fit ​​process of a first snap-fit ​​structure and a second snap-fit ​​structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0062] Figure 12 is a schematic diagram of a snap-fit ​​strip provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0063] Figure 13 is a schematic diagram of another cable tray provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0064] Figure 14 is a schematic diagram of another cable tray provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0065] Figure 15 is a schematic diagram of another fiber optic connector provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0066] Figure 16 is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the snap-fit ​​process of another first snap-fit ​​structure and a second snap-fit ​​structure provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0067] Figure 17 is a schematic diagram of the back panel of another fiber optic connector box provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0068] Figure 18 is a schematic diagram of the snap-fit ​​process of another first snap-fit ​​structure and a second snap-fit ​​structure provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0069] Figure 19 is a schematic diagram of the back of an optical fiber connector assembly provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0070] Legend: 1. Cable tray, 11. Mounting plate, 12. Cable drum, 13. Support plate, 131. First snap-fit ​​structure, 132. First baffle, 1320. First limiting groove, 1321. Protruding post, 133. Snap-fit ​​strip, 1330. Hook, 1331. First section, 1332. Second section, 134. Opening, 135. Injection hole, 136. Through hole, 137. Indicator mark; 2. Fiber optic connector box, 20. Interface part, 21. Back plate, 210. Groove, 211. Second snap-fit ​​structure, 212. Second baffle, 2120. Second limiting groove, 213. Stop block, 2131. Snap-fit ​​groove, 214. Wall mounting hole, 215. Guide structure. Detailed Implementation

[0071] With the gradual development of the optical distribution network (ODN) industry, fiber optic junction boxes are becoming increasingly widely used. These boxes, also known as fiber optic cable junction boxes, are used to connect to optical fibers or cables. Fiber optic junction boxes include access terminal boxes (ATBs), fiber access terminals (FATs), and splitting and splicing closures (SSCs). Access terminal boxes can also be called fiber optic terminal boxes or fiber optic distribution boxes. Splicing and splicing closures can also be called fiber optic splice boxes.

[0072] Taking an access terminal box as an example, the access terminal box is used to split the downlink optical signal sent by the upper-level device and send it to multiple lower-level devices; and to combine the uplink optical signals sent by multiple lower-level devices and send them to the upper-level device. Therefore, the access terminal box needs to connect the upper-level device and the lower-level device via optical cable or optical fiber. Generally, the optical connector between the access terminal box and the upper-level device is called an optical cable, and the optical connector between the access terminal box and the lower-level device is called an optical fiber. Since the distance between the access terminal box and the upper-level device is variable, in some scenarios, the optical cable may be too long, requiring a cable reel to coil up the excess length. This cable reel can also be called a fiber reel. The cable reel is wall-mounted, and the access terminal box is fixed to the cable reel.

[0073] In related technologies, the cable tray and the access terminal box are assembled together using screws. However, the screw assembly method has the following technical problems.

[0074] First, assembly using screws is inefficient and increases the cost of screws.

[0075] Secondly, to improve aesthetics, screws should not be exposed; therefore, they are located on the back of the access terminal box (i.e., the side connecting to the cable tray). This means that once the cable tray and access terminal box are mounted on the wall, the access terminal box cannot be removed separately because the screws are on the back; it must be removed together with the cable tray, making the process cumbersome. Alternatively, the screws could be located on the front of the access terminal box, with corresponding concealing parts to cover them. However, this increases the structural complexity of the access terminal box, and the concealing parts must be removed first when disassembling the access terminal box, also making the process cumbersome.

[0076] Third, once the cable tray and access terminal box are mounted on the wall, the orientation of the access terminal box relative to the cable tray is determined, that is, the orientation of the interface section of the access terminal box (i.e., the fiber output direction) is fixed. If it is necessary to adjust the orientation of the access terminal box, both the cable tray and the access terminal box need to be disassembled, and their orientations adjusted as a whole, which is a cumbersome operation.

[0077] In view of the above-mentioned technical problems, this application provides an optical fiber connector assembly. As shown in Figures 1-7, the optical fiber connector assembly includes a cable tray 1 and an optical fiber connector 2. The cable tray 1 includes a support plate 13, which is connected to the back plate 21 of the optical fiber connector 2 by a snap-fit ​​connection.

[0078] The cable coiling frame 1 is used for coiling optical fibers or cables and can also be called a fiber coiling frame. In some examples, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the cable coiling frame 1 includes a mounting plate 11 and a cable coiling cylinder 12. One end of the cable coiling cylinder 12 is connected to the mounting plate 11, and the other end is connected to a support plate 13. The cable coiling cylinder 12 is used for winding optical fibers or cables. The mounting plate 11 has mounting holes 111 for screws to pass through, so as to fix the cable coiling frame 1 to the wall.

[0079] The fiber optic junction box 2 can be any box or enclosure used for connecting optical fibers or cables. For example, it can be ATB, FAT, or SSC.

[0080] The technical solution provided in this application embodiment omits screws by assembling the fiber optic connector box 2 and the cable tray 1 in a snap-fit ​​manner, thus simplifying the assembly and disassembly operations of the fiber optic connector box assembly and improving assembly and disassembly efficiency.

[0081] The following is an exemplary description of how the support plate 13 and the back plate 21 are connected. In some examples, as shown in FIG8, the support plate 13 is provided with a plurality of first connecting structures 131, which are arranged in a ring (e.g., a circular ring). As shown in FIG9, the back plate 21 is provided with a plurality of second connecting structures 211, which are also arranged in a ring (e.g., a circular ring). The plurality of first connecting structures 131 are respectively used to connect the plurality of second connecting structures 211 to realize the connection between the support plate 13 and the back plate 21. As shown in FIG8, the plurality of first connecting structures 131 can be located on the side of the support plate 13 facing away from the mounting plate 11.

[0082] To allow adjustment of the fiber optic connector 2's orientation without disassembling the cable tray 1 after it's mounted on the wall, this embodiment of the application configures each first snap-fit ​​structure 131 to snap into at least two different second snap-fit ​​structures 211. That is, the second snap-fit ​​structure 211 snapped into by each first snap-fit ​​structure 131 is replaceable. Thus, by changing the second snap-fit ​​structure 211 snapped into each first snap-fit ​​structure 131, the orientation of the fiber optic connector 2 can be adjusted. Since the first snap-fit ​​structures 131 and second snap-fit ​​structures 211 are arranged in a ring, the orientation of the interface portion 20 differs in different orientations of the fiber optic connector 2 (as shown in Figures 3-6). This facilitates adjustment of the fiber output direction of the fiber optic connector 2. The interface portion 20 is used to connect optical cables or optical fibers.

[0083] In some examples, as shown in Figure 8, multiple first snap-fit ​​structures 131 have identical structures and are evenly arranged circumferentially. This allows each first snap-fit ​​structure 131 to snap into any second snap-fit ​​structure 211, enabling the fiber optic connector 2 to be fixed to the cable tray 1 in various orientations. Of course, as shown in Figure 13, the structures of the multiple first snap-fit ​​structures 131 can be slightly different, as long as each first snap-fit ​​structure 131 can snap into any second snap-fit ​​structure 211.

[0084] In other examples, as shown in Figure 9, multiple second snap-fit ​​structures 211 have identical structures and are evenly arranged circumferentially. Thus, each first snap-fit ​​structure 131 can snap into any second snap-fit ​​structure 211, allowing the fiber optic connector 2 to be fixed to the cable tray 1 in various orientations.

[0085] In some examples, each of the first snap-fit ​​structures 131 in this application embodiment can snap onto any second snap-fit ​​structure 211. Thus, assuming that the number of first snap-fit ​​structures 131 and second snap-fit ​​structures 211 is N, the fiber optic connector 2 can be fixed to the cable tray 1 in N different orientations.

[0086] For example, N is 4, that is, the number of the first snap-fit ​​structure 131 and the second snap-fit ​​structure 211 are both four, and the central angle between two adjacent first snap-fit ​​structures 131 is 90°. Then the fiber optic connector 2 can be fixed to the cable tray 1 in four different postures.

[0087] Figures 3-6 illustrate the fiber optic connector 2 in four different orientations: the first, second, third, and fourth. As shown in Figure 3, in the first orientation, the interface 20 of the fiber optic connector 2 faces downwards. As shown in Figure 4, in the second orientation, the interface 20 of the fiber optic connector 2 faces to the right. As shown in Figure 5, in the third orientation, the interface 20 of the fiber optic connector 2 faces upwards. As shown in Figure 6, in the fourth orientation, the interface 20 of the fiber optic connector 2 faces to the left. These settings allow the interface 20 of the fiber optic connector 2 to face any of the four directions (up, down, left, right), which helps meet the fiber output requirements of the fiber optic connector 2 in various scenarios.

[0088] The embodiments of this application do not limit the implementation method of switching between the first snap-fit ​​structure 131 and the second snap-fit ​​structure 211 in the snap-fit ​​state and the disengagement state.

[0089] In some examples, one of the first snap-fit ​​structure 131 and the second snap-fit ​​structure 211 is a snap-fit ​​slot, and the other is a snap-fit ​​strip. For example, the second snap-fit ​​structure 211 is a snap-fit ​​slot, and the first snap-fit ​​structure 131 is a snap-fit ​​strip. Then the first snap-fit ​​structure 131 and the second snap-fit ​​structure 211 switch between a snap-fit ​​state and a de-snapping state by plugging and unplugging.

[0090] During the assembly of the fiber optic connector assemblies, multiple second snap-fit ​​structures 211 are first aligned with multiple first snap-fit ​​structures 131, and then the fiber optic connector 2 is pressed down, causing the multiple second snap-fit ​​structures 211 to snap into the multiple first snap-fit ​​structures 131, thus completing the assembly of the fiber optic connector assemblies. When it is necessary to disassemble the fiber optic connector 2, the back plate 21 and the support plate 13 are moved away from each other, thus separating the multiple second snap-fit ​​structures 211 from the multiple first snap-fit ​​structures 131, and the disassembly of the fiber optic connector 2 is completed.

[0091] In other examples, as shown in Figures 7, 10, and 11, the fiber optic connector 2 is used to switch the first snap-fit ​​structure 131 and the second snap-fit ​​structure 211 between a snap-fit ​​state and a de-snapping state by rotation. In Figures 10 and 11, only the first snap-fit ​​structure 131 of the cable tray is retained.

[0092] During the assembly of the fiber optic connector cassette assembly, as shown in the upper parts of Figures 10 and 11, the multiple second snap-fit ​​structures 211 are first staggered from the multiple first snap-fit ​​structures 131. Then, the fiber optic connector cassette 2 is pressed so that each second snap-fit ​​structure 211 extends into the gap between two adjacent first snap-fit ​​structures 131. Next, as shown in Figures 10 and 11, the fiber optic connector cassette 2 is rotated in one direction, causing the multiple second snap-fit ​​structures 211 to snap into the multiple first snap-fit ​​structures 131, thus completing the assembly of the fiber optic connector cassette assembly. When it is necessary to disassemble the fiber optic connector cassette 2, it is rotated in another direction, separating the second snap-fit ​​structures 211 from the first snap-fit ​​structures 131. Afterwards, the operator can manipulate the fiber optic connector cassette 2 to move the backplate 21 and the support plate 13 away from each other, completing the disassembly of the fiber optic connector cassette 2.

[0093] The technical solution provided in this application embodiment allows the fiber optic connector 2 to switch between a snap-fit ​​structure 131 and a snap-fit ​​structure 211 in a snap-fit ​​state and a disconnect state by rotating it. Firstly, this facilitates the operator's application of force and avoids some dangers that may arise from the insertion and removal method, such as the risk of the operator falling or being bumped during removal. Secondly, it also prevents the cable tray 1 from being pulled down from the wall during the disassembly of the fiber optic connector 2. Thirdly, it also prevents the second snap-fit ​​structure 211 from failing to snap into the first snap-fit ​​structure 131 due to its own weight after repeated disassembly and reassembly.

[0094] In some examples, as shown in Figure 9, the backplate 21 also includes a groove 210, in which a second snap-fit ​​structure 211 is fixed, and a first snap-fit ​​structure 131 extends into the groove 210. This reduces the gap between the surface of the backplate 21 and the surface of the support plate 13. Furthermore, the groove 210 provides initial positioning for the first snap-fit ​​structure 131, facilitating the assembly of the fiber optic connector assemblies. Additionally, by fixing the second snap-fit ​​structure 211 in the groove 210, the second snap-fit ​​structure 211 does not protrude from the surface of the backplate 21, or the protrusion is very small, which is beneficial in some scenarios where the fiber optic connector 2 can be used alone, for example, when the fiber optic connector 2 is mounted on a wall alone.

[0095] Of course, in other examples, the support plate 13 may be configured to include a groove 210, and the first snap-fit ​​structure 131 is fixed in the groove 210, and the second snap-fit ​​structure 211 is used to extend into the groove 210.

[0096] The embodiments of this application do not limit the shape of the groove 210. In some examples, as shown in Figures 9-11, there are multiple grooves 210 arranged in a ring. Each groove 210 is used to accommodate a second snap-fit ​​structure 211 and a first snap-fit ​​structure 131. Each first snap-fit ​​structure 131 or second snap-fit ​​structure 211 can extend into any groove 210, so that the fiber optic connector 2 can be fixed to the cable tray 1 in various positions.

[0097] The technical solution provided in this application embodiment, by setting multiple grooves 210, facilitates the initial positioning of the fiber optic connector 2 during the assembly of the fiber optic connector assembly. For example, multiple first snap-fit ​​structures 131 can be aligned with multiple grooves 210 respectively. Then, the fiber optic connector 2 is operated so that the multiple first snap-fit ​​structures 131 extend into the multiple grooves 210 respectively and snap into the second snap-fit ​​structures 211 in each groove 210. Alternatively, if the grooves 210 are located on the support plate 13, multiple second snap-fit ​​structures 211 can be aligned with multiple grooves 210 respectively. Then, the fiber optic connector 2 is operated so that the multiple second snap-fit ​​structures 211 extend into the multiple grooves 210 respectively and snap into the first snap-fit ​​structures 131 in each groove 210.

[0098] In other examples, as shown in Figures 17 and 18, the groove 210 can also be an annular groove (circular groove) for accommodating multiple second snap-fit ​​structures 211 and multiple first snap-fit ​​structures 131. Each first snap-fit ​​structure 131 can extend into the gap between any two adjacent second snap-fit ​​structures 211, so that the fiber optic connector 2 can be fixed to the cable tray 1 in various orientations.

[0099] In some examples, as shown in Figures 10 and 18, multiple first snap-fit ​​structures 131 can also be rotatably connected to the sidewall of the groove 210. In this way, when the first snap-fit ​​structure 131 extends into the groove 210, the fiber optic connector 2 can only rotate or separate from the cable tray 1, and cannot shake, which is beneficial for the snap-fit ​​of the first snap-fit ​​structure 131 and the second snap-fit ​​structure 211.

[0100] In some examples, as shown in Figures 10 and 18, the groove 210 includes an inner sidewall and an outer sidewall, which are disposed opposite to each other and both extend in the rotational direction. A plurality of first snap-fit ​​structures 131 are fitted to the inner sidewall and / or the outer sidewall to achieve a rotational connection between the first snap-fit ​​structure 131 and the groove 210.

[0101] Of course, in other examples, multiple second snap-fit ​​structures 211 can be rotatably connected to the sidewall of the groove 210.

[0102] In other examples, other structures can also be used to achieve the rotatable connection between the back plate 21 and the support plate 13. For example, one of the back plate 21 and the support plate 13 is provided with a circular platform, and the other is provided with a circular groove. The circular platform extends into the circular groove and fits against the side wall of the circular groove to achieve the rotatable connection between the back plate 21 and the support plate 13.

[0103] In some examples, as shown in Figures 9-11, a guide structure 215 is provided in the groove 210. The guide structure 215 is positioned opposite to the second snap-fit ​​structure 211, and the side of the guide structure 215 facing the second snap-fit ​​structure 211 is a guide slope. The guide slope is used to guide the first snap-fit ​​structure 131 to be inserted between the guide structure 215 and the second snap-fit ​​structure 211, so as to achieve the initial positioning of the fiber optic connector box 2 and the cable tray 1.

[0104] In some examples, as shown in Figures 7, 8, 13, and 14, the support plate 13 of the cable tray 1 is provided with four indicator marks 137, which are elongated strips. As shown in Figure 7, when the four edges of the fiber optic connector 2 are parallel to the four indicator marks 137, and the four indicator marks 137 surround the fiber optic connector 2, the multiple second snap-fit ​​structures 211 of the fiber optic connector 2 can extend into the groove 210. Then, by rotating the fiber optic connector 2, the first snap-fit ​​structure 131 and the second snap-fit ​​structure 211 can be snapped together. The indicator marks 137 can be strip-shaped grooves or strip-shaped protrusions.

[0105] The implementation methods of the first snap-fit ​​structure 131 and the second snap-fit ​​structure 211 will be described below by way of example.

[0106] In some examples, as shown in Figures 8 and 11, the first snap-fit ​​structure 131 includes a first baffle 132, and a first limiting groove 1320 is provided between the first baffle 132 and the support plate 13. As shown in Figures 9 and 11, the second snap-fit ​​structure 211 includes a second baffle 212, and a second limiting groove 2120 is provided between the second baffle 212 and the back plate 21. As shown in Figure 11, the first baffle 132 is used to extend into the second limiting groove 2120, and the second baffle 212 is used to extend into the first limiting groove 1320, so as to achieve axial limiting of the first snap-fit ​​structure 131 and the second snap-fit ​​structure 211. When the back plate 21 and the support plate 13 tend to move away from each other, the back plate 21 and the support plate 13 cannot be separated due to the mutual obstruction of the first baffle 132 and the second baffle 212.

[0107] To achieve circumferential limiting of the first locking structure 131 and the second locking structure 211, in some examples, as shown in Figures 8, 10, and 11, the first locking structure 131 includes a locking strip 133, which includes a hook 1330. As shown in Figures 9-11, the second locking structure 211 includes a stop 213. The hook 1330 is located on the rotation path of the stop 213.

[0108] As shown in Figures 10 and 11, during the rotation of the fiber optic connector 2 in the first direction, the hook 1330 passes over and engages with the stop 213, thereby limiting the first locking structure 131 and the second locking structure 211 in the circumferential direction. During the rotation of the fiber optic connector 2 in the other direction, the hook 1330 passes over and disengages from the stop 213.

[0109] In some examples, as shown in Figure 10, a snap-fit ​​groove 2131 is formed between the stop 213 and one end wall of the groove 210. The hook 1311 is used to limit itself within the snap-fit ​​groove 2131 to achieve circumferential positioning of the first snap-fit ​​structure 131 and the second snap-fit ​​structure 211. In other examples, as shown in Figures 17 and 18, the stop 213 exists in pairs, with a snap-fit ​​groove 2131 formed between adjacent stop 213s. Each snap-fit ​​groove 2131 is used to limit one hook 1311 to achieve circumferential positioning of the first snap-fit ​​structure 131 and the second snap-fit ​​structure 211.

[0110] To allow the hook 1330 to smoothly pass over the stop 213, in some examples, as shown in Figures 12 and 11, the locking strip 133 includes a first segment 1331 and a second segment 1332. The first segment 1331 is connected to the support plate 13, and the second segment 1332 is separate from the support plate 13, with the hook 1330 provided on the second segment 1332. This improves the deformation capability of the second segment 1332, making the hook 1330 easier to swing. Correspondingly, when the locking strip 1333 is located on the back plate 21, the first segment 1331 is connected to the back plate 21, and the second segment 1332 is separate from the back plate 21.

[0111] It should be noted that in some examples, as shown in Figure 8, each first snap-fit ​​structure 131 includes a first baffle 132 and a snap-fit ​​strip 133. In other examples, as shown in Figure 13, some first snap-fit ​​structures 131 may include both the first baffle 132 and the snap-fit ​​strip 133, while others may only include the first baffle 132. Since the fiber optic connector 2 corresponding to the cable tray 1 shown in Figure 13 is still the same as the fiber optic connector 2 shown in Figure 9, that is, each second snap-fit ​​structure 211 of the fiber optic connector 2 includes a second baffle 212 and a stop block 213. Therefore, each first snap-fit ​​structure 131 of the cable tray 1 shown in Figure 13 can still snap-fit ​​with any second snap-fit ​​structure 211.

[0112] In some other examples, as shown in Figure 14, all first snap-fit ​​structures 131 do not include snap-fit ​​strips 133. Correspondingly, as shown in Figure 15, the second snap-fit ​​structure 211 does not include stop blocks 213. In order to achieve the same circumferential limiting of the first snap-fit ​​structure 131 and the second snap-fit ​​structure 211, in some examples, as shown in Figure 16, the side of the first baffle 132 facing the second baffle 212 is provided with a protrusion 1321. The protrusion 1321 is used to interfere with the second baffle 212 to achieve circumferential limiting of the first snap-fit ​​structure 131 and the second snap-fit ​​structure 211.

[0113] Of course, in other examples, the second baffle 212 may have a protruding post on the side facing the first baffle 132, which is used to interfere with the first baffle 132 to achieve circumferential positioning of the first snap-fit ​​structure 131 and the second snap-fit ​​structure 211.

[0114] The positions of the first snap-fit ​​structure 131 and the second snap-fit ​​structure 211 are described below by way of example. In some examples, the cable reel frame 1 is an injection molded part. In order to simplify the mold required for injection molding, as shown in FIG19, the injection holes 135 corresponding to the multiple first snap-fit ​​structures 131 are connected to the interior of the cable reel cylinder 12. This is beneficial to the injection molding of the first snap-fit ​​structure 131.

[0115] In some scenarios, the fiber optic connector 2 does not need to be connected to the cable tray 1 and can be used independently on the wall. To facilitate independent wall mounting of the fiber optic connector 2, as shown in Figures 9 and 15, the back plate 21 also includes wall mounting holes 214 for wall mounting screws to pass through. Since the back plate 21 has multiple second snap-fit ​​structures 211 and grooves 210, the area on the back plate 21 available for arranging the wall mounting holes 214 is smaller. However, in this embodiment, multiple second snap-fit ​​structures 211 are arranged around the wall mounting holes 214, that is, the wall mounting holes 214 are arranged at the center of the multiple second snap-fit ​​structures 211, thus making full use of the remaining area on the back plate 21 to arrange the wall mounting holes 214.

[0116] In addition, to prevent the fiber optic connector 2 from shaking after being wall-mounted, as shown in Figures 9 and 15, the backplate 21 is generally provided with two wall-mounting holes 214. One wall-mounting hole 214 is located at the center of the plurality of second snap-fit ​​structures 211. The other wall-mounting hole 214 is located at the edge of the backplate 21, for example, at the edge of the backplate 21 corresponding to the interface portion 20.

[0117] In some examples, as shown in Figure 19, the support plate 13 is provided with an opening 134 for the operator's fingers to pass through, so as to facilitate the operator's fiber coiling operation. The opening 134 can be arranged opposite to the wall mounting hole 214, and multiple first snap-fit ​​structures 131 are arranged around the opening 134.

[0118] The optical cable wound on the cable reel 1 needs to connect to the interface 20 of the fiber optic connector 2. To limit the cable's movement, in some examples, as shown in Figures 1-6, the edge of the support plate 13 includes perforations 136 for a binding strap to pass through and to secure the optical fiber. When the fiber optic connector 2 is fixed to the cable reel 1, at least one perforation 136 is located on the outside of the connector 2. Thus, the binding strap secures the optical cable connecting to the connector 2 to the support plate 13 through the perforation 136, thereby limiting the cable's movement.

[0119] In some examples, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the four edges of the support plate 13 include perforations 136. This facilitates the positioning of the optical fiber in all orientations of the optical fiber connector 2.

[0120] For example, as shown in Figures 3-6, when the fiber optic connector 2 is fixed to the cable tray 1, the interface portion 20 of the fiber optic connector 2 blocks the perforation 136 on one edge, while the perforations 136 on the other three edges are located on the outside of the fiber optic connector 2.

[0121] The above description is merely an optional embodiment of this application and is not intended to limit this application. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the principles of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A fiber optic connector assembly, characterized in that, The fiber optic connector assembly includes a cable tray (1) and a fiber optic connector (2); The cable tray (1) includes a support plate (13), the support plate (13) is provided with a plurality of first snap-fit ​​structures (131), the plurality of first snap-fit ​​structures (131) are arranged in a ring; The fiber optic connector box (2) includes a back plate (21), the back plate (21) is provided with a groove (210) and a plurality of second snap-fit ​​structures (211), the plurality of second snap-fit ​​structures (211) are located in the groove (210) and are arranged in a ring; The plurality of first snap-fit ​​structures (131) are used to extend into the groove (210) and snap-fit ​​the plurality of second snap-fit ​​structures (211) respectively. The fiber optic connector (2) is used to switch the first snap-fit ​​structure (131) and the second snap-fit ​​structure (211) between snap-fit ​​state and disengagement state by rotation. The second snap-fit ​​structure (211) snapped to by each of the first snap-fit ​​structures (131) can be replaced so that the fiber optic connector (2) can be fixed to the cable tray (1) in a variety of orientations.

2. The fiber optic connector assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The plurality of first snap-fit ​​structures (131) have the same structure and are uniformly arranged in the circumferential direction; and / or, the plurality of second snap-fit ​​structures (211) have the same structure and are uniformly arranged in the circumferential direction.

3. The fiber optic connector assembly according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The support plate (13) includes four first snap-fit ​​structures (131), and the back plate (21) includes four second snap-fit ​​structures (211). Each first snap-fit ​​structure (131) can snap onto any second snap-fit ​​structure (211), so that the fiber optic connector (2) can be fixed to the cable tray (1) in four postures.

4. The fiber optic connector assembly according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The back plate (21) includes a plurality of grooves (210) arranged in a ring, and a plurality of second snap-fit ​​structures (211) are respectively located in the plurality of grooves (210). The plurality of first snap-fit ​​structures (131) are respectively used to extend into the plurality of grooves (210).

5. The fiber optic connector assembly according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The groove (210) is an annular groove, which is used to accommodate the plurality of second snap-fit ​​structures (211) and the plurality of first snap-fit ​​structures (131).

6. The fiber optic connector assembly according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that, The plurality of first snap-fit ​​structures (131) are also used for rotatable connection with the sidewall of the groove (210).

7. The fiber optic connector assembly according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, The first snap-fit ​​structure (131) includes a first baffle (132), and a first limiting groove (1320) is included between the first baffle (132) and the support plate (13); The second snap-fit ​​structure (211) includes a second baffle (212), and a second limiting groove (2120) is included between the second baffle (212) and the bottom of the groove (210); The first baffle (132) is used to extend into the second limiting groove (2120), and the second baffle (212) is used to extend into the first limiting groove (1320) to achieve axial limiting of the first snap-fit ​​structure (131) and the second snap-fit ​​structure (211).

8. The fiber optic connector assembly according to claim 7, characterized in that, One of the first baffle (132) and the second baffle (212) is provided with a protrusion (1321), which is used to make an interference fit with the other of the first baffle (132) and the second baffle (212) to realize the circumferential positioning of the first snap-fit ​​structure (131) and the second snap-fit ​​structure (211).

9. The fiber optic connector assembly according to any one of claims 1-8, characterized in that, One of the first snap-fit ​​structure (131) and the second snap-fit ​​structure (211) includes a snap-fit ​​strip (133) and the other includes a stop (213). The snap-fit ​​strip (133) includes a hook (1330) which is located on the rotation path of the stop (213). During the rotation of the fiber optic connector box (2) in the first direction, the hook (1330) passes over and hooks the stop (213) to achieve circumferential positioning of the first snap-fit ​​structure (131) and the second snap-fit ​​structure (211); During the rotation of the fiber optic connector box (2) in the second direction, the latch (1330) passes over the stop (213) and separates from the stop (213) to release the circumferential restriction of the first latching structure (131) and the second latching structure (211).

10. The fiber optic connector assembly according to claim 9, characterized in that, The snap-fit ​​strip (133) includes a first segment (1331) and a second segment (1332); The first segment (1331) is connected to the back plate (21) or the support plate (13), the second segment (1332) is separated from the back plate (21) or the support plate (13), and the second segment (1332) is provided with the hook (1330).

11. The fiber optic connector assembly according to any one of claims 1-10, characterized in that, The back plate (21) is also provided with a plurality of guide structures (215), which are located in the groove (210); Each of the guide structures (215) and a second snap-fit ​​structure (211) are arranged circumferentially opposite each other. The side of the guide structure (215) facing the second snap-fit ​​structure (211) is a guide slope, which is used to guide a first snap-fit ​​structure (131) to extend between the guide structure (215) and the second snap-fit ​​structure (211).

12. The fiber optic connector assembly according to any one of claims 1-11, characterized in that, The back panel (21) also includes wall mounting holes (214), and the grooves (210) are arranged around the wall mounting holes (214).

13. The fiber optic connector assembly according to claim 12, characterized in that, The support plate (13) includes an opening (134), which is opposite to the wall mounting hole (214), and the plurality of first snap-fit ​​structures (131) are arranged around the opening (134).

14. The fiber optic connector assembly according to any one of claims 1-13, characterized in that, The cable tray (1) also includes a mounting plate (11) and a cable tray (12), one end of which is connected to the mounting plate (11) and the other end is connected to the support plate (13); The cable tray (1) is an injection molded part, and the injection holes (135) corresponding to the plurality of first snap-fit ​​structures (131) are connected to the interior of the cable tray (12).

15. The fiber optic connector assembly according to any one of claims 1-14, characterized in that, The edge of the support plate (13) includes a perforation (136) for a strap to pass through, the strap being used to bind the optical cable; When the fiber optic connector box (2) is fixed to the cable tray (1), at least one of the perforations (136) is located on the outside of the fiber optic connector box (2).

16. The fiber optic connector assembly according to claim 15, characterized in that, The support plate (13) includes the perforations (136) on all four edges; When the fiber optic connector (2) is fixed to the cable tray (1), the interface (20) of the fiber optic connector (2) blocks the perforation (136) on one edge, while the perforations (136) on the other three edges are located on the outside of the fiber optic connector (2).

17. A fiber optic connector box, characterized in that, The fiber optic connector box (2) includes a back plate (21), which has a groove (210) and a plurality of second snap-fit ​​structures (211). The plurality of second snap-fit ​​structures (211) are located in the groove (210) and arranged in a ring. The plurality of second snap-fit ​​structures (211) are used to snap-fit ​​the cable tray (1).

18. A cable tray, characterized in that, The cable tray (1) includes a mounting plate (11), a cable tray (12) and a support plate (13). One end of the cable tray (12) is connected to the mounting plate (11) and the other end is connected to the support plate (13). The support plate (13) is provided with a plurality of first snap-fit ​​structures (131), which are arranged in a ring, wherein the plurality of first snap-fit ​​structures (131) are used to snap-fit ​​the fiber optic connector box (2).

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