CN108701937A - Narrow Width Connectors and Adapters with Spring-Loaded Remote Release Mechanism - Google Patents

Abstract

The narrow width fiber optic connector has a spring-loaded remote release mechanism to facilitate operation and use of the connector in a high density array. The narrow width optical fiber connector includes: a multi-fiber connector, wherein the narrow width fiber optic connector has a width of less than about 12.4 mm; a housing configured to hold a multi-fiber connector and further comprising a connector recess; and a pull tab having a ramp region configured to disengage the latch of one of the adapter and the SFP from the connector recess. The pull tab may include a spring configured to allow a latch of one of the adapter and the SFP to engage the connector recess.

Description

Narrow Width Connectors and Adapters with Spring-Loaded Remote Release Mechanism

Cross References to Related Applications

This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 15/044,838, filed February 16, 2016, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Patent Application No. 14/996,865, filed January 15, 2016, which also Priority is claimed to International Application PCT/US16/13629, filed January 15, 2016, and Taiwan Patent Application No. 105101374, filed January 18, 2016, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety middle.

technical field

The present invention relates generally to connectors with remote release mechanisms, and more particularly to narrow width adapters and connectors such as narrow pitch LC duplex connectors and adapters with spring loaded remote release mechanisms, and narrow width multi-fiber connections device.

Background technique

The proliferation of the Internet has led to an unprecedented growth of communication networks. Consumer demand for services and increased competition have driven network providers to continually look for ways to improve service quality while reducing costs.

Some solutions include the deployment of high-density interconnection panels. HDI panels can be designed to consolidate the ever-increasing volume of interconnects required to support rapidly growing networks into a compact form factor, improving service quality and reducing costs such as footprint and support charges. However, the deployment of HDI panels has not been fully realized.

In communication networks, such as data centers and switching networks, many interconnections between mating connectors can be compactly integrated into high-density panels. Panel and connector manufacturers can optimize this high density by reducing the size of the connectors and/or the spacing between adjacent connectors on the panel. While both approaches are effective in increasing panel connector density, reducing connector size and/or spacing also increases support costs and reduces quality of service.

In high density panel configurations, each adjacent connector and cable assembly blocks access to each individual release mechanism. Such physical obstructions can hinder an operator's ability to minimize the stress applied to the cables and connectors. These stresses are applied, for example, when a user reaches into a densely packed connector group and pushes the surrounding fibers and connectors away to operate the individual connector release mechanisms with thumb and forefinger. Overstressing cables and connectors can create potential defects, compromise termination integrity and/or reliability, and can wreak havoc on network performance.

While an operator could attempt to use a tool such as a screwdriver to reach into the densely packed connector group and actuate the release mechanism, the adjacent cables and connectors would obstruct the operator's view, making it difficult to move around without removing surrounding cables. Guide the tool to the release mechanism while pushing it away. Furthermore, even when the operator has an unobstructed line of sight, guiding the tool to the release mechanism can be a time consuming process. Therefore, using tools is not effective in reducing support maintenance time and improving service quality.

Small form-factor pluggable transceivers (SFPs), also known as Ethernet switches and/or patching hubs, are currently used in telecom infrastructure within rack-mounted copper-to-fiber media converters. These infrastructure Ethernet and fiber optic connections are being developed every day to increase the connection density because the space available for such equipment is limited. Although fiber optic connectors have gotten smaller over the years, they have not been designed smaller than required to plug into common sized and readily available SFPs. However, as transceiver technology evolves, smaller SFPs will be used to create higher density switch and/or patched hub devices. Therefore, there is a need for fiber optic connectors to meet the future development of smaller SFPs.

Contents of the invention

Aspects of the invention relate to providing adapters and fiber optic connectors for future developments of smaller SFPs, including, for example, narrow pitch SFPs for LC-type duplex connectors and narrow width SFPs for MPO connectors. Aspects of the present invention also provide a spring loaded remote release mechanism for ease of handling and use with narrow pitch connectors in high density arrays or panels.

According to one aspect, there is provided a narrow width fiber optic connector comprising: a multi-fiber connector, wherein the width of the narrow width fiber optic connector is less than about 12.4 mm; a housing configured to hold the multi-fiber connector and further comprising the connector a recess; and a pull tab having a ramped region configured to disengage the latch of either the adapter or the SFP from the connector recess. A multi-fiber connector may include a multi-fiber MT ferrule. In some embodiments, the width of the narrow width fiber optic connector may be less than or equal to about 9.6 mm. The pull tab may include a spring configured to allow the latch of either the adapter or the SFP to engage the connector recess.

According to another aspect, there is provided a narrow pitch fiber optic connector comprising: a plurality of LC connectors arranged such that the pitch of the narrow pitch fiber optic connectors is less than about 5.25 mm; a housing configured to hold the plurality of LC connections and also includes a connector recess; and a pull tab having a ramp area configured to disengage the latch of one of the adapter and the SFP from the connector recess. In some embodiments, the pitch may be less than or equal to about 4.8 mm. The pull tab may include a spring configured to allow the latch of either the adapter or the SFP to engage the connector recess. In some embodiments, the pull tab can include a distal end for remotely unlocking the narrow pitch fiber optic connector. Narrow pitch fiber optic connectors can be duplex connectors. In some embodiments, the housing may include a bottom case and a top case coupled to the bottom case. The bottom case may include side walls configured to open. The side wall may include a raised profile at its rear end.

According to another aspect, there is provided a narrow pitch fiber optic connector comprising: a plurality of LC connectors arranged such that the pitch of the narrow pitch fiber optic connectors is less than about 5.25 mm; a plurality of latch arms coupled to the plurality of LC connectors; a connector; a housing configured to retain the plurality of LC connectors; and a pull tab coupled to the plurality of latch arms and configured to remotely unlock the narrow pitch fiber optic connectors. In some embodiments, the pitch may be less than or equal to about 4.8 mm.

In some embodiments, the pull tab may include a spring configured to provide a force to return the latch arm to the undisplaced position. The pull tab may include: a distal end for remotely unlocking the narrow pitch fiber optic connector; and a proximal end configured to couple the pull tab to the plurality of latch arms. The proximal end may include a single prong configured to engage the plurality of latch arms. The proximal end may include a plurality of pins configured to slide along the semi-circular profile of the plurality of latch arms. In various embodiments, the narrow pitch fiber optic connectors are duplex connectors.

In various embodiments, the case may include a bottom case and a top case coupled to the bottom case. The bottom case may include side walls configured to open. The sidewall may include a raised profile at the rear end. The top case can be configured to hold a pull tab. The pull tab may further be configured to be pushed down to unlock the narrow pitch fiber optic connector without causing any horizontal movement of the pull tab.

According to another aspect, a duplex fiber optic connector is disclosed, comprising: two LC connectors arranged such that the distance between the duplex LC connectors is less than about 5.25 mm; and a tab coupled to the two LC connectors to remotely unlock the duplex fiber optic connector when pulled horizontally, where the tab is spring-loaded. In one embodiment, the pitch may be less than or equal to about 4.8 mm.

In some embodiments, the tab can include a proximal end configured to couple to the respective latch arms of the two LC connectors. The duplex fiber optic connector can also include a housing having side walls configured to open. The housing may also include a top case configured to receive a pull tab. The pull tab may further be configured to be pushed down to unlock the duplex fiber optic connector without causing any horizontal movement of the pull tab.

According to another aspect, a narrow pitch adapter is disclosed that includes a recess configured to receive a duplex fiber optic connector with a pitch of less than about 5.25 mm. In some embodiments, the pitch may be less than or equal to about 4.8 mm.

According to another aspect, a narrow width fiber optic connector is disclosed, comprising: a multi-fiber connector, wherein the width of the narrow width fiber optic connector is less than about 12.4 mm; at least one latch arm coupled to the multi-fiber connector; a housing, configured to retain the multi-fiber connector; and a pull tab coupled to the at least one latch arm and configured to remotely unlock the narrow width fiber optic connector. A multi-fiber connector may include a multi-fiber MT ferrule. In some embodiments, the width may be less than or equal to about 9.6 mm. In some embodiments, the pull tab may include a spring configured to provide a force to return the at least one latch arm to an undisplaced position.

Description of drawings

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a prior art standard 6.25mm pitch LC connector SFP;

Figure 1B is a perspective view of a prior art standard 6.25mm pitch LC adapter;

Figure 1C is a top view of the prior art adapter of Figure 1B;

FIG. 1D is a front view of the prior art adapter of FIG. 1B showing a 6.25 mm pitch;

2A is a perspective view of a prior art LC duplex connector;

Figure 2B is a perspective view of a prior art LC duplex connector with a remote release tab;

Figure 2C is a top view of a prior art LC connector used in the embodiment shown in Figures 2A and 2B;

Figure 2D is a side view of the prior art LC connector of Figure 2C;

3 is a perspective view of a future narrow pitch LC SFP for receiving the connectors disclosed herein in accordance with aspects of the present invention;

Figure 4A is a perspective view of one embodiment of a narrow pitch LC adapter in accordance with aspects of the present invention;

Figure 4B is a top view of the narrow pitch LC adapter of Figure 4A;

Figure 4C is a front view of the narrow pitch LC adapter of Figure 4A, showing a 4.8 mm pitch;

5 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a narrow pitch LC duplex connector with a remote release mechanism in accordance with aspects of the present invention;

6A is a top view of the LC connector used in the embodiment of FIG. 5 according to aspects of the present invention;

Figure 6B is a side view of the LC connector of Figure 6A according to aspects of the present invention;

7 is a perspective view of the narrow pitch LC duplex connector of FIG. 5 with the release mechanism removed, in accordance with aspects of the present invention;

8 is an exploded perspective view of the narrow pitch LC duplex connector of FIG. 5 in accordance with aspects of the present invention;

Figure 9 is a perspective view of a prior art standard MPO SFP;

Figure 10A is a perspective view of a prior art standard MPO connector;

Figure 10B is a top view of the prior art MPO connector of Figure 10A with a width of 12.4 mm;

Figure 10C is a front view of the prior art MPO connector of Figure 10A;

11 is a perspective view of a future narrow width multi-fiber SFP for receiving the connectors disclosed herein in accordance with aspects of the present invention;

12A is a perspective view of one embodiment of a narrow width multi-fiber connector with a remote release mechanism in accordance with aspects of the present invention;

12B is a top view of the 9.6 mm wide narrow width multi-fiber connector of FIG. 12A in accordance with aspects of the present invention;

12C is a front view of the narrow width multi-fiber connector of FIG. 12A in accordance with aspects of the present invention;

13A is a perspective view of a narrow width multi-fiber connector inserted into a narrow width SFP with SFP latches in accordance with aspects of the present invention;

13B is a perspective view of a narrow width multi-fiber connector inserted into a narrow width adapter with an adapter latch in accordance with aspects of the present invention;

14 is a side view of the narrow width multi-fiber connector of FIG. 13A with the recess engaging the SFP latch in the normal pull-tab position, in accordance with aspects of the present invention; and

15 is a side view of the narrow width multi-fiber connector of FIG. 13A disengaged from the SFP latch by retracting the tab, in accordance with aspects of the present invention.

Detailed ways

This invention is not limited to the particular systems, devices and methods described, as these may vary. The terms used in the specification are for describing specific forms or embodiments only, and are not intended to limit the scope.

As used herein, the singular forms "a" and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. Nothing in this disclosure is to be construed as an admission that the embodiments described in this disclosure are not entitled to antedate disclosure by virtue of prior invention. As used herein, the term "comprising" means "including but not limited to".

For the purposes of this application, the following terms shall have the corresponding meanings set forth below.

As used herein, a connector refers to a device and/or part thereof that connects a first module or cable to a second module or cable. Connectors can be configured for fiber optic transmission or electrical signal transmission. The connector can be any suitable type now known or later developed, such as ferrule connector (FC), fiber optic distributed data interface (FDDI) connector, LC connector, mechanical transfer (MT) connector, SC connectors, SC duplex connectors, or straight-in (ST) connectors. A connector may generally be defined by a connector housing. In some embodiments, the housing may contain any or all of the components herein.

"Fiber optic cable" or "fiber optic cable" means a cable comprising one or more optical fibers for conducting optical signals in light beams. Optical fibers may be constructed of any suitable transparent material, including glass, fiberglass, and plastic. The cable may include a jacket or sheath material surrounding the optical fibers. Additionally, the cable can be connected to the connector at one or both ends of the cable.

Various embodiments described herein generally provide a remote release mechanism so that a user can remove cable assembly connectors densely packed together on a high-density panel without damaging surrounding connectors, accidentally disconnecting surrounding connectors, interrupt transmission through surrounding connectors, etc. Various embodiments also provide narrow pitch LC duplex connectors and narrow width multi-fiber connectors, for example for use with future narrow pitch LC SFPs and future narrow width SFPs. The remote release mechanism allows narrow pitch LC duplex connectors and narrow width multi-fiber connectors to be used in dense arrays of narrow pitch LC SFPs and narrow width multi-fiber SFPs.

FIG. 1A shows a perspective view of a prior art standard 6.25mm pitch LC connector SFP 100 . The SFP 100 is configured to receive a duplex connector and provides two receptacles 102, each receptacle for receiving a corresponding LC connector. The pitch 104 is defined as the axis-to-axis distance between the central longitudinal axes of each of the two receptacles 102 . FIG. 1B shows a perspective view of a prior art standard 6.25 mm pitch LC adapter 106 . Adapter 106 is also configured to receive a duplex connector and provides two receptacles 108, each receptacle for receiving a corresponding LC connector. FIG. 1C is a top view of the adapter 106 of FIG. 1B . Similar to the pitch of the SFP 100 , the pitch 110 of the adapter 106 is defined as the axis-to-axis distance between the central longitudinal axes of each of the two receptacles 108 , as shown in FIG. 1D showing a front view of the adapter 106 .

FIG. 2A shows a prior art LC duplex connector 200 that can be used with a conventional SFP 100 and a conventional adapter 106 . The LC duplex connector 200 includes two conventional LC connectors 202 . FIG. 2B shows another prior art LC duplex connector 204 having a remote release tab 206 and including two conventional LC connectors 208 . As shown, the remote release tab includes two pins 210 each configured to couple to an extension member 212 of a corresponding LC connector 208 . 2C and 2D show top and side views, respectively, of a conventional LC connector 208 having a width of 5.6 mm and also showing extension member 212 .

Various embodiments disclosed herein are configured for use with future SFPs, such as the narrow pitch LCSFP 300 shown in FIG. 3 , with pitches smaller than conventional 6.25mm and 5.25mm pitches. Various embodiments employ LC-type fiber optic connectors in a duplex arrangement (with launch and receive fibers), but the axis-to-axis distance of the connector is less than conventional 6.25mm and 5.25mm pitches, as described further below.

According to another aspect, embodiments of a narrow pitch duplex LC adapter are disclosed. One embodiment of a narrow pitch adapter 400 is shown in FIGS. 4A-4C . Narrow pitch adapter 400 has receptacles 402 on both ends thereof configured to mate with two narrow pitch LC duplex connectors according to aspects disclosed herein. FIG. 4B shows a top view of adapter 400 . Figure 4C shows a front view, further showing that the adapter 400 has a pitch of 4.8 mm. The adapter 400 is configured to receive duplex LC connectors with a pitch of the adapter corresponding to the axis-to-axis distance between the LC connectors of the LC duplex connector. While adapter 400 has a pitch of 4.8 mm, various embodiments of the narrow pitch adapters disclosed herein may have a different pitch that is less than conventional adapter pitches, such as less than 6.25 mm and less than about 5.25 mm. In some embodiments, the pitch may be about 4.8 mm or less.

In addition to the need for narrow connectors, there is also a need for remote unlocking of narrow connectors for dense narrow SFP arrays. That's because it's nearly impossible to finger-operate a connector without disrupting service to adjacent fibers. While designs for remote unlocking fiber optic connectors currently exist (eg, as shown in FIG. 2B ), they have proven difficult to function as desired when inserted into the die-cast construction that all SFPs typically have. Die-cast SFPs are not free from sharp edges and internal flashing (burrs) that can interfere with the normal flexing motion of the fiber optic connector's plastic latch. Interference between metal edges and burrs can prevent full engagement or easy disengagement of fiber optic connector plastic latches, especially for those that pass through the pull tab (the pull tab protrudes a distance behind the connector to prevent fingers from interfering with adjacent fibers) For remotely triggered latches.

To make the latching/unlocking of the connector relative to the SFP more reliable, various embodiments disclosed herein add spring force to the remote latching component (pull tab), for example below with respect to FIGS. 5, 7, 8 and 12 shown and described to ensure that the connector latch is allowed to return to the undisplaced position, thereby fully engaging within the recess of the SFP.

FIG. 5 illustrates one embodiment of a narrow pitch connector 500 in accordance with aspects disclosed herein. The narrow pitch connector 500 is a duplex LC connector including two LC connectors 502 . Each LC connector 502 includes a corresponding ferrule 503 and a corresponding extension member or latch arm 504 . The connectors 500 have a pitch of 4.8 mm, which is defined as the axis-to-axis distance between the center axes of two LC connectors 502 . In other embodiments, the connector pitch may be less than that of conventional connectors, such as less than 6.25 mm and less than about 5.25 mm. In some embodiments, the pitch may be about 4.8 mm or less.

The connector 500 also includes a housing 506 having a bottom shell 508 and a top shell 510 . Bottom housing 508 includes side walls 512 . In various embodiments, the housing of the connector may be a switchable housing. The side walls may be configured to open to facilitate opening the housing, for example to change the polarity of the connector. Sidewall 512 may be raised toward the rear of the connector, as shown in FIG. 5 . One advantage of having the sidewalls raised towards the rear of the connector is easier handling. In other embodiments, the sidewall may be raised at another location.

Connector 500 also includes a pull tab 514 having a distal end 516 and a proximal end 518 . Pull tab 514 also includes a spring 520 configured to provide a force to return connector latch arm 504 to the undisplaced position and thereby fully engage within the recess of the SFP. The distal end 516 of the pull tab 514 can be pulled to remotely release the connector 500 from the SFP or adapter. The proximal end 518 of the pull tab 514 is uniquely shaped to engage the unique contour of the latch arm 504 of the narrow pitch LC connector 500 . Proximal end 518 engages both latch arms 504 of duplex LC connector 500 simultaneously. That is, proximal end 518 includes a single pin configured to engage the latch arms of both connectors 502 . At the proximal end 518 of the pull tab 514 there is an outwardly extending pin 522 configured to sit directly over and slide along the semicircular surface of the latch arm 504 of the duplex LC connector 502 . The horizontal rearward path direction of the pin 522 causes the semi-circular profile of the connector latch arm 504 to bend downward. Because the pin 522 is not received in the ramped groove of the connector latch arm 504, it is also possible to push the pull tab 514 down at a location directly behind the LC connector 502, rather than from a remote distance behind the connector (for example, from a remote location). end 516) pull the tab to move backward. The action of pushing down on the connector's integral lever or latch arm 504 unlocks the connector 500 . In some cases, horizontal movement of tab 514 is not desired. Accordingly, the connector latch arm 504 can be pushed downward without causing the pull tab 514 to move horizontally.

6A and 6B show top and side views, respectively, of the LC connector 502 of the narrow pitch connector 500 . Figure 6A also shows that the LC connector 502 has a width of 4.6mm. FIG. 6B shows the semi-circular profile of the latch arm 504 .

FIG. 7 shows a partially exploded view of the narrow pitch connector 500 of FIG. 5 . The top case 510 is separate from the bottom case 508 . Pull tab 514 is coupled to top case 510 and is configured to slide longitudinally along the length of the connector. The top case 510 also includes a restraint 524 configured to receive the pull tab 514 .

FIG. 8 shows a further exploded view of narrow pitch connector 500 . Specifically, the pull tab 514 is shown detached from the top case 510 with the spring 520 removed from the pull tab. Pull tab 514 includes a longitudinal recess 526 configured to receive spring 520, and at least one restraint 528 configured to retain the spring. Top case 510 also includes a recess 530 configured to accommodate at least a portion of pull tab 514 , such as spring 520 and proximal end 518 . In various embodiments, the pull tab can be removably coupled to the connector via the top case.

FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of a standard MPO SFP 900 of the prior art. The SFP 900 is configured to receive a standard MPO connector and provides a receptacle 902 for receiving a regular width MPO connector, such as shown in FIGS. 10A-10C .

FIG. 10A shows a perspective view of a conventional MPO connector 1000 . As shown in FIG. 10B, a conventional MPO connector 1000 has a width of 12.4 mm. FIG. 10C shows a front view of the MPO connector 1000 .

Figure 11 illustrates an embodiment of a future narrow width multi-fiber SFP 1100 in accordance with aspects of the present invention. Various embodiments disclosed herein are configured for use with a narrow width multi-fiber SFP 1100 that is less than the width of a conventional MPO connector, less than about 12.4 mm in width. The narrow width multi-fiber SFP has a receptacle 1102 configured to receive a narrow width multi-fiber connector, such as a narrow width connector with an MT ferrule.

FIG. 12A illustrates one embodiment of a narrow width connector 1200 in accordance with aspects disclosed herein. Narrow width connector 1200 is a multi-fiber connector that includes a multi-fiber MT/MPO ferrule 1202 . Connector 1200 includes two extension members or latch arms 1204 . In other embodiments, the connector may include at least one latch arm. Connector 1200 has a width of 9.6 mm, as shown in the top view of connector 1200 in FIG. 12B . In other embodiments, the connector width may be smaller than that of a conventional multi-fiber connector, for example, smaller than 12.4 mm of a conventional MPO connector shown in FIG. 10B . In some embodiments, the width may be about 9.6 mm or less.

The connector 1200 also includes a housing 1206 having a bottom shell 1208 and a top shell 1210 . Bottom housing 1208 includes side walls 1212 . In various embodiments, the housing of the connector may be a switchable housing. The side walls may be configured to open to facilitate opening the housing, for example to change the polarity of the connector. Sidewall 1212 may be raised toward the rear of the connector. One advantage of having the sidewalls raised towards the rear of the connector is easier handling. The side walls can also be raised at another point.

Connector 1200 also includes a pull tab 1214 having a distal end 1216 and a proximal end 1218 . The pull tab 1214 also includes a spring 1220 configured to provide a force to return the connector latch arm 1204 to the undisplaced position and thereby fully engage within the recess of the SFP. The distal end 1216 of the pull tab 1214 can be pulled to remotely release the connector 1200 from the SFP or adapter. Proximal end 1218 of pull tab 1214 is uniquely shaped to engage the unique contour of latching arm 1204 of narrow width multi-fiber connector 1200 . Proximal end 1218 engages both latch arms 1204 of multi-fiber connector 1200 simultaneously. That is, proximal end 1218 includes a single prong configured to engage both latch arms 1204 . At the proximal end 1218 of the pull tab 1214 there is an outwardly extending pin 1222 configured to be placed directly over and slide along the semi-circular surface of the latch arm 1204 . The horizontal rearward path direction of the pin 1222 causes the semi-circular profile of the connector latch arm 1204 to bend downward. Because the pin 1222 is not housed in the ramped groove of the connector latch arm 1204, the pull tab 1214 can also be pushed down at a position directly behind the latch arm 1204 rather than from a distance behind the connector (eg, from the distal end). 1216) Pull the pull tab to move backward. The action of pushing down on the connector's integral lever or latch arm 1204 unlocks the connector 1200 . In some cases, horizontal movement of pull tab 1214 is not desired. Accordingly, the connector latch arm 1204 can be pushed downward without causing the pull tab 1214 to move horizontally.

12B and 12C show top and front views, respectively, of narrow width multi-fiber connector 1200 . Figure 12B also shows that the connector 1200 has a width of 9.6 mm.

In various embodiments described above, the narrow width connector has a latch arm configured to engage a fixed or immobile recess in the narrow width SFP or narrow width adapter. In these embodiments, the pull tab of the connector displaces the flexible latch arm of the connector to disengage the latch arm from the recess of the SFP or adapter. For example, as the tab is pulled back, the latch arm flexes downward to disengage the connector from the SFP or adapter.

In other embodiments, the remote latch release tab may be configured to couple with a latch or hook within the adapter or SFP, as further described below, eg, with reference to FIGS. 13-15 . In these embodiments, the flexible latch arm of the connector moves into the main cavity of the SFP or adapter, and the latch of the SFP or adapter engages the recess of the connector when the pull tab is in the normal position urged forward by the spring. The pull tab may be configured with a ramped region such that when the pull tab is pulled back, the SFP or adapter's latch is lifted by the retracted pull tab, thereby disengaging the SFP or adapter's latch from the connector.

Figure 13A shows a narrow pitch multi-fiber connector 1300 inserted into a narrow pitch SFP 1302 such that the recess of the connector engages the SFP latch. FIG. 13B shows narrow pitch connector 1300 inserted into narrow pitch adapter 1304 such that the recess of the connector engages the latch of the adapter.

FIG. 14 shows a side view of narrow width connector 1300 of FIG. 13A coupled to narrow width SFP 1302 . Details of the coupling are shown within circle 1400 . Specifically, SFP 1302 includes SFP latch 1402 . Connector 1300 includes recess 1404 . For example, the connector housing may include recess 1404 . As described with respect to various embodiments, pull tab 1406 may be spring loaded. This allows pull tab 1406 to return to a position that will allow SFP latch 1402 to engage connector recess 1404 . When pull tab 1406 is in the normal pull tab position pushed forward by the spring, as shown in FIG. 14 , SFP latch 1402 engages connector recess 1404 as shown within circle 1400 .

FIG. 15 shows a side view of the narrow width connector 1300 of FIG. 13A disengaged from the narrow width SFP 1302 . Details of the decoupling are shown within circle 1500 . Pull tab 1406 includes a tapered or ramped region 1502 . As pull tab 1406 is pulled back in the direction of arrow 1504 as shown, SFP latch 1402 is lifted by the ramped region of the retracted tab, thereby disengaging SFP latch 1402 from the connector, as in circle 1500 shown. The same effects described herein in connection with Figure 15 apply to other connector embodiments coupled to narrow width adapters, such as shown in Figure 13A.

Although FIGS. 14 and 15 illustrate the coupling of the connector to a narrow width SFP, in other embodiments of the connector, the connector may be coupled to a narrow width adapter having an adapter latch similar to the SFP latch. Furthermore, although the embodiments shown in FIGS. 13-15 include narrow width multi-fiber connectors, the embodiments are also applicable to narrow pitch LC connectors.

In the foregoing Detailed Description, reference was made to the accompanying drawings which form an integral part of the specification. In the drawings, similar symbols typically identify similar components, unless context dictates otherwise. The illustrative embodiments in the detailed description, drawings, and claims are not meant to be limiting. Other embodiments may be utilized, and other changes may be made, without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject matter presented herein. It will be readily understood that the aspects of the invention as generally described herein and shown in the drawings may be arranged, substituted, combined, separated and designed in various different configurations, all of which are expressly contemplated herein.

The invention is not to be limited by the specific embodiments described in this application, which are merely illustrations of various aspects. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many modifications and variations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Functionally equivalent methods and apparatus within the scope of the invention, in addition to those enumerated herein, will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the foregoing description. Such modifications and changes also fall within the scope of the appended claims. The invention is to be limited only by the terms of the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. It is to be understood that this invention is not limited to particular methods, reactants, compounds, components or biological systems, which can, of course, vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not restrictive.

With respect to the use of substantially any plural and/or singular term herein, those skilled in the art can convert the plural to the singular and/or the singular to the plural as appropriate to the context and/or application. For the sake of clarity, various singular/plural permutations and combinations may be explicitly set forth herein.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the terms used herein in general and in the appended claims (eg, the body of the appended claims) are generally intended to be "open-ended" terms (eg, the term "comprising" should be interpreted as "including but not limited to", the term "having" should be interpreted as "having at least" etc.). Although various components, methods and devices are described with "comprising" (interpreted as "including but not limited to") various components or steps, these components, methods and devices can also be "essentially composed of various components and steps" or "consists of various components and steps", and such terms should be construed as defining a substantially closed group of building blocks. It will be further understood by those within the art that if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such an intent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence of such recitation no such intent is present. For example, as an aid to understanding, the following appended claims may contain usage of the introductory phrases "at least one" and "one or more" to introduce claim recitations. However, use of such phrases should not be construed to mean that a claim recitation introduced by the indefinite article "a" or "an" limits any particular claim containing such an introduced claim recitation to containing only one such recited embodiment, Even when the same claim includes the introductory phrase "one or more" or "at least one" and an indefinite article such as "a" (for example, "a" should be construed to mean "at least one" or "one or more ”); the same is true for the use of definite articles used to introduce claim statements. Additionally, even if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is expressly recited, those skilled in the art will recognize that such a recitation should be construed to mean at least that recited number (eg, without other modifiers, only the recited "Two statements" means at least two statements, or more than two statements). Furthermore, where an idiom similar to "at least one of A, B, and C, etc." is used, usually such grammatical constructions are intended to be used in the sense that those skilled in the art understand the idiom (e.g., "A system having at least one of A, B, and C" would include, but not be limited to, a system having A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B, A and C, B and C, and/or A, B and C, etc. ). Where an idiom similar to "at least one of A, B, or C, etc." is used, usually this grammatical structure is intended to be used in the sense that those skilled in the art understand the idiom (e.g., "has A system of at least one of A, B or C" shall include, but not be limited to, a system having A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B, A and C, B and C and/or A, B and C, etc.) . Those skilled in the art will further appreciate that virtually any disjunctive word and/or phrase that presents two or more alternative terms, whether in the specification, claims, or drawings, should be construed as including one of these terms , either of the terms, or both of the terms. For example, the phrase "A or B" will be understood to include the possibilities of "A" or "B" or "A and B."

In addition, where features or aspects of the invention are described in terms of Markush groups, those skilled in the art will recognize that the invention is also thereby described in terms of any individual member or subgroup member of the Markush group. .

As will be understood by those skilled in the art, for any and all purposes, eg, in terms of providing a written description, all ranges disclosed herein also encompass any and all possible subranges and combinations of subranges. Any listed range can readily be understood as fully describing and allowing for the same range to be broken down into at least equal halves, thirds, quarters, fifths, tenths, etc. As a non-limiting example, each range discussed herein can be easily broken down into lower thirds, middle thirds, upper thirds, etc. As will also be understood by those skilled in the art, all terms (eg, "up to," "at least," etc.) are inclusive of the stated number and refer to a range that can then be broken down into sub-ranges as described above. Finally, as will be understood by those skilled in the art, a range includes each individual member. Thus, for example, a group having 1-3 units refers to groups having 1, 2 or 3 units. Similarly, a group having 1-5 units refers to groups having 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5 units, and so on.

Various of the above-disclosed and other features and functions, or alternatives thereof, may be combined into many other different systems or applications. Various presently unforeseen or unanticipated substitutions, modifications, changes or improvements may subsequently be made by those skilled in the art, but are intended to be encompassed by the disclosed embodiments.

Claims (12)

1. a kind of narrow width fiber connector, including:

Multiple fiber optical connector, wherein the width of narrow width fiber connector is less than about 12.4mm;

Shell is configured to holding multiple fiber optical connector and further includes connector recess portion;And

Pulling-on piece with sloped region is configured to that adapter and the latch of SFP alternative one is made to be detached from from connector recess portion.

2. narrow width fiber connector according to claim 1, wherein multiple fiber optical connector includes Multifiber MT lock pin.

3. narrow width fiber connector according to claim 1, wherein width is less than or equal to about 9.6mm.

4. narrow width fiber connector according to claim 1, wherein pulling-on piece includes spring, is configured to allow to be adapted to Device and the latch of SFP alternative one are engaged with connector recess portion.

5. a kind of thin space optical fiber connector, including:

Multiple LC connectors, be arranged so that thin space optical fiber connector is smaller than about 5.25mm;

Shell is configured to keep the multiple LC connectors and further includes connector recess portion;And

Pulling-on piece with sloped region is configured to that adapter and the latch of SFP alternative one is made to be detached from from connector recess portion.

6. thin space optical fiber connector according to claim 5, wherein described to be smaller than or be equal to about 4.8mm.

7. thin space optical fiber connector according to claim 5, wherein pulling-on piece includes spring, is configured to allow to be adapted to Device and the latch of SFP alternative one are engaged with connector recess portion.

8. thin space optical fiber connector according to claim 7, wherein pulling-on piece includes distal end, is unlocked for long distance narrow Spacing optical fiber connector.

9. thin space optical fiber connector according to claim 5, wherein thin space optical fiber connector is duplex connector.

10. thin space optical fiber connector according to claim 5, wherein shell includes bottom case and is connected to the top of bottom case Shell.

11. thin space optical fiber connector according to claim 10, wherein bottom case includes being configured to open side wall.

12. thin space optical fiber connector according to claim 11, wherein side wall is located to include profile raised panel in its back-end.