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WO2017118749A2 - Adaptateur de fibres optiques tout terrain - Google Patents

Adaptateur de fibres optiques tout terrain Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2017118749A2
WO2017118749A2 PCT/EP2017/050289 EP2017050289W WO2017118749A2 WO 2017118749 A2 WO2017118749 A2 WO 2017118749A2 EP 2017050289 W EP2017050289 W EP 2017050289W WO 2017118749 A2 WO2017118749 A2 WO 2017118749A2
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
fiber optic
engagement
adapter
adapter assembly
assembly closure
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Ceased
Application number
PCT/EP2017/050289
Other languages
English (en)
Other versions
WO2017118749A3 (fr
Inventor
Dirk Kempeneers
Barry Wayne Allen
Patrick Jacques Ann Diepstraten
Thierry Janssens
Roel Modest Willy Bryon
Bart Mattie Claessens
Erwin Beckers
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Commscope Connectivity Belgium BVBA
Original Assignee
Commscope Connectivity Belgium BVBA
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Commscope Connectivity Belgium BVBA filed Critical Commscope Connectivity Belgium BVBA
Publication of WO2017118749A2 publication Critical patent/WO2017118749A2/fr
Publication of WO2017118749A3 publication Critical patent/WO2017118749A3/fr
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Ceased legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G02—OPTICS
    • G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
    • G02B6/00—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings
    • G02B6/24—Coupling light guides
    • G02B6/36—Mechanical coupling means
    • G02B6/38—Mechanical coupling means having fibre to fibre mating means
    • G02B6/3807—Dismountable connectors, i.e. comprising plugs
    • G02B6/381—Dismountable connectors, i.e. comprising plugs of the ferrule type, e.g. fibre ends embedded in ferrules, connecting a pair of fibres
    • G02B6/3825—Dismountable connectors, i.e. comprising plugs of the ferrule type, e.g. fibre ends embedded in ferrules, connecting a pair of fibres with an intermediate part, e.g. adapter, receptacle, linking two plugs

Definitions

  • Fiber optic cables are widely used to transmit light signals for high speed data
  • a fiber optic cable typically includes: (1) an optical fiber or optical fibers; (2) a buffer or buffers that surrounds the fiber or fibers; (3) a strength layer that surrounds the buffer or buffers; and (4) an outer jacket.
  • Optical fibers function to carry optical signals.
  • a typical optical fiber includes an inner core surrounded by a cladding that is covered by a coating.
  • Buffers e.g., lose or tight buffer tubes typically function to surround and protect coated optical fibers.
  • Strength layers add mechanical strength to fiber optic cables to protect the internal optical fibers against stresses applied to the cables during installation and thereafter.
  • Example strength layers include aramid yarn, steel and epoxy reinforced glass roving.
  • Outer jackets provide protection against damage caused by crushing, abrasions, and other physical damage.
  • Outer jackets also provide protection against chemical damage (e.g., ozone, alkali, acids).
  • Fiber optic cable connection systems are used to facilitate connecting and disconnecting fiber optic cables in the field without requiring a splice.
  • a typical fiber optic cable connection system for interconnecting two fiber optic cables includes fiber optic connectors mounted at the ends of the fiber optic cables, and a fiber optic adapter for mechanically and optically coupling the fiber optic connectors together.
  • Fiber optic connectors generally include ferrules that support the ends of the optical fibers of the fiber optic cables. The end faces of the ferrules are typically polished and are often angled.
  • the fiber optic adapter includes co-axially aligned ports (i.e., receptacles) for receiving the fiber optic connectors desired to be interconnected.
  • the fiber optic adapter includes an internal sleeve that receives and aligns the ferrules of the fiber optic connectors when the connectors are inserted within the ports of the fiber optic adapter. With the ferrules and their associated fibers aligned within the sleeve of the fiber optic adapter, a fiber optic signal can pass from one fiber to the next.
  • the adapter also typically has a mechanical fastening arrangement (e.g., a snap-fit arrangement) for mechanically retaining the fiber optic connectors within the adapter.
  • Example fiber optic connection systems are described at U.S. Patent Nos. 6,579,014, 6,648,520, and 6,899,467.
  • Fiber optic connection systems for outdoor use have been developed. Such systems typically include fiber optic adapters and fiber optic connectors that are more robust than their indoor counterparts. These types of robust components are often referred to as being hardened or ruggedized and are typically environmentally sealed. Additionally, such components generally include robust mechanical coupling interfaces that may include rotatable coupling elements such as threaded fasteners or bayonet-style fasteners. Example systems having ruggedized fiber optic adapters are disclosed in U.S. Patent Nos. 7,744,288; 8,827,571; and 8,882,364. SUMMARY
  • One aspect of the present disclosure relates to ruggedized fiber optic adapters having designs that are easy to assemble and relatively low in cost.
  • the assembly can take place in the field or in the factory.
  • Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to ruggedized fiber optic adapters having designs that provide the ability to readily customized port configurations of the fiber optic adapter.
  • a further aspect of the present disclosure relates to systems for mounting/installing ruggedized fiber optic adapters within enclosures.
  • a still further aspect of the present disclosure relates to a fiber optic adapter assembly closure for optically and mechanically coupling two fiber optic connectors.
  • the fiber optic adapter assembly closure includes a first adapter half with a connector port end positioned opposite from an engagement end.
  • the connector port end defines a connector port and the engagement end includes an engagement flange.
  • the fiber optic adapter assembly closure also includes a second adapter half with a connector port end positioned opposite from an engagement end.
  • the connector port end defines a connector port and the engagement end includes an engagement flange.
  • the engagement flange of the first adapter half is configured to mate with the engagement flange of the second adapter half.
  • the fiber optic adapter assembly closure also includes a coupler that mounts over the mated engagement flanges of the first and second adapter halves to secure the engagement ends of the first and second adapter halves together.
  • a still further aspect of the present disclosure relates to a fiber optic adapter assembly closure for optically and mechanically coupling two fiber optic connectors.
  • the fiber optic adapter assembly closure includes a first adapter half with a connector port end positioned opposite from an engagement end.
  • the connector port end defines a connector port and the engagement end includes an engagement flange.
  • the fiber optic adapter assembly closure also includes a second adapter half with a connector port end positioned opposite from an engagement end.
  • the connector port end defines a connector port and the engagement end includes an engagement flange.
  • the engagement flange of the first adapter half is configured to make a snap-fit engagement with the engagement flange of the second adapter half.
  • the fiber optic adapter assembly closure also includes a sealing member that mounts between the engagement ends.
  • the fiber optic adapter assembly closure also includes an optical alignment structure that mounts between the engagement ends.
  • a still further aspect of the present disclosure relates to a telecommunications device including an enclosure with a base that mates in sealed relation with a cover.
  • the telecommunications device also includes a fiber optic adapter assembly closure that mounts between the base and the cover.
  • the fiber optic adapter assembly closure defines a first connector port that is accessible from inside the enclosure and a second connector port that is accessible from outside the enclosure.
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an adapter assembly closure according to an example embodiment of the disclosure.
  • FIG. 2 is an end view of the adapter assembly closure shown in FIG. 1.
  • FIG. 3 is a side view of the adapter assembly closure shown in FIG. 1.
  • FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional side view of the adapter assembly closure shown in FIG. 1.
  • FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a pair of engaged half-adapters from the adapter assembly closure shown in FIG. 1, shown with a coupler removed.
  • FIG. 6 is a side view of an internal clip assembly of the adapter assembly closure of FIG. 1, shown isolated from the adapter assembly closure.
  • FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the coupler of the adapter assembly closure of FIG. 1, shown isolated from the adapter assembly closure.
  • FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a segment of the coupler shown in FIG. 7.
  • FIG. 9 is a cross- sectional side view of the adapter assembly closure shown in FIG. 1, showing the adapter assembly closure receiving two fiber optic connectors.
  • FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an adapter assembly closure having an SC-type half-adapter according to another example embodiment of the disclosure.
  • FIG. 11 is an end view of the adapter assembly closure shown in FIG. 10, viewing the end including the SC-type half-adapter.
  • FIG. 12 is a side view of the adapter assembly closure shown in FIG. 10.
  • FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional side view of the adapter assembly closure shown in FIG.
  • FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a pair of engaged half-adapters from the adapter assembly closure shown in FIG. 10, shown with a coupler removed.
  • FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional side view of the adapter assembly closure shown in FIG. 10, showing the adapter assembly closure receiving two fiber optic connectors.
  • FIG. 16 is a perspective view of an adapter assembly closure according to another example embodiment of the disclosure.
  • FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a pair of engaged half-adapters and a separated coupler of the adapter assembly closure shown in FIG. 16.
  • FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the pair of engaged half-adapters shown in FIG. 17.
  • FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the coupler shown in FIG. 17.
  • FIG. 20 is a perspective view of an adapter assembly closure according to another example embodiment of the disclosure.
  • FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the adapter assembly closure shown in FIG. 20, showing a pair of half-adapters separated from each other.
  • FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a housing for supporting a fiber optic connector adapter assembly closure according to another example embodiment of the disclosure.
  • FIG. 23 is a perspective view of the housing shown in FIG. 22, showing a cover separated from a base to show an example fiber optic adapter assembly closure supported therein.
  • FIG. 24 is a perspective view of the separated base and cover shown in FIG. 23, showing the example fiber optic connector adapter assembly closure removed from the base.
  • FIG. 25 is an isolated perspective internal view of the cover shown in FIG. 24.
  • FIGS. 1 - 4 illustrate an example adapter assembly closure 100 to be used for optically and mechanically coupling a pair of fiber optic connectors (e.g., connectors 300a, 300b as shown at FIG. 9) in the field, also defined as a ruggedized fiber optic adapter.
  • the illustrated adapter assembly closure 100 includes a first adapter half 102a, a second adapter half 102b and a coupler 106.
  • the coupler 106 includes structure for quickly and easily securing the first and second adapter halves 102a, 102b together either in a field or factory setting.
  • the first and second adapter halves 102a, 102b of the adapter assembly closure 100 respectively define first and second connector ports 105a, 105b (see FIG.
  • the connector ports 105a, 105b have open ends that face in opposite directions.
  • the first and second adapter halves 102a, 102b each include connector port ends 141a, 141b and opposite engagement ends 143a, 143b.
  • the connector ports 105a, 105b are respectively defined at the connector port ends 141a, 141b and engagement flanges 124a, 124b are respectively defined at the engagement ends 143a, 143b.
  • the engagement ends 143a, 143b are configured to mate and interlock to facilitate coupling the first and second adapter halves 102a, 102b with the connector ports 105a, 105b in co-axial alignment along the axis Li.
  • the engagement ends 143a, 143b can be keyed so that the connector ports 105a, 105b are aligned at a predetermined rotational orientation relative to one another.
  • the coupler 106 fits over the engagement flanges 124a, 124b of the mated engagement ends 143 a, 143b to lock the engagement ends together such that the mated engagement ends 143a, 143b are prevented from axially disengaging from one another.
  • a seal 112 can be provided between the engagement ends 143a, 143b such that moisture or other unwanted material (e.g., dust, contaminants) are prevented from entering an interior of the adapter assembly closure 100 through the interface between the engagement ends 143a, 143b.
  • the seal 112 is an axial seal that surrounds the axis Li that is axially compressed between the engagement ends 143a, 143b.
  • the seal can be radially compressed between the engagement ends 143a, 143b.
  • the seal 112 can include an O-ring having a round transverse cross-sectional profile. Other styles of seals having other transverse cross- sectional profiles (e.g., rectangular) can also be used.
  • first and second adapter halves 102a, 102b can have identical configurations with the connector ports 105a, 105b configured to receive the same type or style of ruggedized fiber optic connector 300a, 300b (e.g., DLXTM style connectors sold by Commscope Technologies LLC examples of which are shown at FIG. 9 and disclosed at U.S. Patent No. 7,744,288 that is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety).
  • first and second adapter halves can have connector ports adapted for receiving other types of ruggedized fiber optic connectors.
  • adapter halves can be provided with connector ports compatible with OptiTapTM style ruggedized fiber optic connectors sold by Corning Cable systems and disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 7,090,406, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
  • aspects of the present disclosure relate to adapter closures configured for optically and mechanically coupling two OptiTapTM style ruggedized fiber optic connectors.
  • adapter halves can be provided with connector ports compatible with ruggedized fiber optic connectors having bayonet-style connection interfaces as disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 8,556,520, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
  • aspects of the present disclosure relate to adapter closures configured for optically and mechanically coupling two ruggedized fiber optic connectors having bayonet-style connection interfaces.
  • first and second adapter halves of a given adapter closure can be configured with different configurations of connector ports at opposite ends each compatible with different types of fiber optic connectors for allowing different types/styles of fiber optic connectors to be mechanically and optically coupled together by the given adapter closure.
  • the connector ports can be configured to allow a DLXTM style ruggedized fiber optic connector to be coupled to an OptiTapTM style ruggedized fiber optic connector.
  • the connector ports can also be configured to allow a DLX style ruggedized fiber optic connector to be coupled to a ruggedized fiber optic connector with a bayonet-type connection interface.
  • the connector ports can also be configured to allow an OptiTapTM style ruggedized fiber optic connector to be coupled to a ruggedized fiber optic connector with a bayonet-type connection interface.
  • the connector ports can be configured to allow a ruggedized fiber optic connector to be mechanically and optically coupled to a non-ruggedized fiber optic connector (e.g., an SC style or LC style fiber optic connector).
  • a non-ruggedized fiber optic connector e.g., an SC style or LC style fiber optic connector.
  • the example adapter closure of FIGS. 10-15 is adapted for coupling a DLXTM style ruggedized fiber optic connector within an SC style non-ruggedized fiber optic connector. It will be appreciated that various adapter halves having different connector ports can be mixed and matched to construct a customized fiber optic closure that is compatible with desired connector types. The ability to easily mix and match different styles of adapter halves can allow the customization to take place in a factory environment or in a field environment.
  • an optical alignment structure/device can be incorporated within adapter assembly closures in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure for co-axially aligning the optical fibers of the fiber optic connectors intended to be coupled together by the adapter closures.
  • the adapter closures can include optical alignment devices including ferrule alignment sleeves that receive the ferrules of the mated fiber optic connectors through opposite ends of the ferrule alignment sleeves to place the ferrules in co- axial alignment with each other.
  • the ferrule alignment sleeves have a split sleeve configuration having an elastic construction that allows the alignment sleeves to flex open to receive the ferrules.
  • the alignment sleeves can have a composition that includes metal, plastic, ceramic or a combination thereof.
  • Example metal materials include beryllium copper and bronze. Other materials can also be used.
  • Adapter closure assemblies in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure can also be compatible with ferrule-less fiber optic connectors and can include optical alignment structures adapted for co-axially aligning bare optical fibers.
  • Example fiber alignment structures adapted for co-axially aligning bare fibers can include v-grooves or other types of alignment grooves and can also include biasing structures for biasing the optical fibers into the grooves.
  • Example ferrule-less fiber alignment structures suitable for use in adapter assembly closures in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure are disclosed in PCT Publication No. WO/2013/117598 that is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
  • the adapter assembly closure 100 can includes an optical alignment device such as a ferrule alignment device 700 adapted for co-axially aligning the ferrules of ferruled fiber optic connectors coupled together via the adapter assembly closure 100.
  • the ferrule alignment device 700 is mounted at a central location along the axis Li within adapter assembly closure 100.
  • the axis Li can be referred to as a central axis, a longitudinal axis, a connector insertion axis, or like terms.
  • the ferrule alignment device 700 includes a ferrule alignment sleeve 702 mounted within a barrel portion 704 of a sleeve housing 705.
  • the ferrule alignment sleeve 702 is co-axially aligned with the axis Li and has a first open end 706 that faces toward the first connector port 105a and a second open end 707 that faces toward the second connector port 105b.
  • the sleeve housing 705 also includes a flange 708 that is captured between the engagement ends 143a, 143b of the first and second adapter halves 102a, 102b to fix the ferrule alignment device at a mid-point between the first and second connector ports 105a, 105b.
  • the ferrule alignment device 700 also includes a clip arrangement 110.
  • the clip arrangement 110 can include first latches or clip arms 110a corresponding to the first connector port 105a and second latches or clip arms 110b corresponding to the second connector port 105b.
  • the clip arms 110a, 110b can flex and engage or interlock (e.g., via a snap-fit connection) with the respective fiber optic connectors 300a, 300b are inserted into the first and second connector ports 105a, 105b to latch the fiber optic connectors 300a, 300b within the adapter halves 102a, 102b.
  • the clip assembly 110 can include a pair of clip arms corresponding to each adapter half 102a, 102b.
  • the clip assembly 110 includes at least one clip arm corresponding to each adapter half 102a, 102b.
  • the clip assembly includes at least one clip arm corresponding to at least one of the adapter halves 102a, 102b.
  • the clip assembly can include one or two clip arms corresponding to one of the adapter halves and no clip arms corresponding to the other of the adapter halves.
  • the clip assembly can include only one clip arm corresponding to one of the adapter halves and only one clip arm corresponding to the other of the adapter halves.
  • the first and second adapter halves 102a, 102b each include a threaded surface 142 (i.e., internal threads) in the interior of the connector ports 105a, 105b.
  • the threaded surface 142 is adapted to securely engage with threads 303 of a rotatable fastener 305 (i.e., a threaded coupling nut) of the corresponding (i.e., mating) ruggedized fiber optic connector 300a, 300b to form a threaded mechanical coupling between the adapter halves 102a, 102b and their respective fiber optic connectors 300a, 300b.
  • the ruggedized fiber optic connectors 300a, 300b each include a ferrule 304 (e.g., a cylindrical ferrule) that supports an end portion of an optical fiber 306 of a fiber optic cable 308.
  • the ruggedized fiber optic connectors 300a, 300b can be secured at an end of the fiber optic cables 308 and strength members (e.g., aramid yarn, fiber glass yarn, fiber reinforced epoxy, etc.) of the fiber optic cables 308 can be anchored to rear ends of the ruggedized fiber optic connectors 300a, 300b.
  • the clip arms 110a, 110b engage the respective ruggedized fiber optic connectors 300a, 300b to initially retain the fiber optic connectors 300a, 300b within their respective connector ports 105a, 105b.
  • the rotatable fasteners 305 can be threaded into the connector ports 105a, 105b to provide more secure mechanical coupling interfaces between the connectors 300a, 300b and the adapter halves 102a, 102b.
  • the ruggedized connectors 300a, 300b can also include sealing members 310 (e.g., O-rings or like sealing structures) for forming environmental seals between the ruggedized connectors 300a, 300b and the adapter halves 102.
  • alterative types of fastener configurations can be used to secure the ruggedized connectors in the connector ports.
  • the fastener configurations can include twist-to-lock configurations such as threaded connection interfaces or bayonet-type connection interfaces.
  • the connection interfaces e.g., threads or bayonet interfaces such as bayonet pins or bayonet slots
  • the connection interfaces can be provided inside the adapter halves within the connector ports or outside the adapter halves at exterior surfaces of the adapter halves.
  • the mating ruggedized fiber optic connector can include a mating sleeve having internal connection interface structures (e.g., threads, slots, pins, etc.).
  • the engagement ends 143a, 143b of the adapter halves 102a, 102b respectively include includes the flanges 124a, 124b that engage each other in a mating relationship.
  • the flanges 124a, 124b can have a generally circular shape.
  • the flanges 124a, 124b can be relatively non-rotational with respect to each other about the longitudinal axis Li through the use of a key-keyway system 180 incorporated with the flanges 124a, 124b.
  • the illustrated key-keyway system 180 can include a female keyway 180b corresponding to at least one of the flanges that receives a mating male key 180a defined by the other flange.
  • flange 124a can include a male key and a female keyway that mate with a corresponding female keyway and male key defined by the flange 124b.
  • Each adapter half 102a, 102b has a neck 172a, 172b that extends away from the flanges 124a, 124b toward the connector port ends 141a, 141b.
  • the illustrated necks 172a, 172b can each have a non-circular transverse cross- sectional geometrical shape.
  • the necks can have transverse cross- sectional outer shapes having one or more flats.
  • the transverse cross-sectional outer shapes can be rectangular, square or hexagonal.
  • the illustrated coupler 106 can be formed of multiple separate segments that can be assembled about the flanges 124a, 124b at the mated engagement ends 143a, 143b of the adapter halves 102a, 102b.
  • the illustrated coupler 106 has a first segment 106a and second segment 106b. When the first 106a and second 106b segments are connected to each other, as illustrated in FIG. 7, they define an internal passageway 170 that receives the flanges 124a, 124b of the mated/engaged adapter halves 102a, 102b.
  • the illustrated internal passageway 170 can form a geometrical shape, for example a square or rectangle, which engages a similar shape of the necks 172a, 172b behind the flanges 124a, 124b of each adapter half 102a, 102b, so that when engaged, the adapter halves 102a, 102b are prevented from rotating relative to the coupler 106.
  • the outer profile of the central region defined by the mated adapter halves 102a, 102b i.e., the outer profile defined by the flanges and necks
  • the outer profile of the adapter assembly closure can include a plurality of axially spaced- apart circumferential ribs 151. The ribs do not engage the coupler 106 and are exposed when the coupler 106 is mounted on the adapter halves 102, 104.
  • the illustrated second segment 106b includes a channel 108 which is defined between a pair of identical walls 134 on either side.
  • the channel 108 can have a semi-circular shape to engagingly receive the flanges 124a, 124b of the adapter halves 102a, 102b.
  • the channel 108 can have a width substantially similar to the width across both flanges 124a, 124b when engaged with each other, so that when the flanges are inserted into the channel they are prevented from axially disengaging each other.
  • the walls 134 of the illustrated second segment 106b define a portion of the geometrical inner passageway 170 of the coupler 106.
  • the first segment 106a can be identical to the second segment 106b in structure, geometry and dimension.
  • each of the first 106a and the second 106b segments can have mating male and female fastening elements, for example snap ramps and receivers, in order to connect to each other via a snap-fit connection to form the coupler 106 that is shown in FIG. 7.
  • mating male and female fastening elements for example snap ramps and receivers
  • FIGS. 10-15 illustrate another example adapter assembly closure 200 for optically and mechanically connecting together a pair of fiber optic connectors.
  • the illustrated adapter assembly closure 200 includes many of the same component parts described above with respect to the adapter assembly closure 100.
  • the adapter assembly closure 200 includes the first adapter half 102a, the seal 112, the ferrule alignment device 700 and the coupler 106.
  • the second adapter half 102b has been replaced with an adapter half 202b having connector port end 241b defining a connector port 205b compatible with a standard SC-type fiber optic connector 238.
  • the adapter half 202b includes an engagement end 243b having the same configuration as the engagement end 143b of the second adapter half 102b.
  • the adapter half 202b can be joined to the adapter half 102a using the coupler 106 in the same manner described above with respect to the adapter assembly closure 100.
  • the adapter assembly closure 200 is configured to optically and mechanically couple the ruggedized fiber optic connector 300a to the non-ruggedized SC-type connector 238.
  • the latches of the ferrule alignment device 700 function to retain the SC-type connector 238 within the connector port 205b.
  • the ferrule alignment sleeve 702 functions to co-axially align the ferrules of the fiber optic connectors 300a, 238.
  • Figures 16-19 show another adapter assembly closure 400 for mechanically and optically connecting together a pair of fiber optic connectors.
  • the adapter assembly closure 400 can be configured for mechanically and optically connecting the connectors 300a, 300b.
  • the adapter assembly closure 400 can include many of the same components previously described with respect to the adapter assembly closure 100.
  • the adapter assembly closure 400 can include the ferrule alignment device 700 mounted within the interior of the adapter assembly closure 400.
  • the adapter assembly closure 400 can include the seal 112 mounted between first and second adapter halves 402a, 402b of the adapter assembly closure 400.
  • the adapter assembly closure 400 can define oppositely positioned connector ports 405a, 405b that are compatible with the ruggedized fiber optic connectors 300a, 300b.
  • the connector ports 405a, 405b can include internal threads 442 that mate with the threads of the coupling nuts of the ruggedized fiber optic connectors 300a, 300b.
  • the adapter assembly closure 400 has a different engagement interface between the first and second adapter halves 402a, 402b. Additionally, the adapter assembly closure 400 has a coupler 406 with a different configuration from the coupler 106 of the adapter assembly closure 100. Specifically, the coupler 406 has a one-piece configuration that is configured to snap-fit over engagement ends 443a, 443b of the first and second adapter halves 402a, 402b.
  • the engagement ends 443a, 443b of the first and second adapter halves 402a, 402b include snap-fit structures (e.g., ramps, slots, tabs, openings, shoulders or like structures) adapted to interface with corresponding snap-fit structures of the coupler 406.
  • snap-fit structures provided at the engagement ends 443a, 443b can be provided on engagement flanges 424a, 424b.
  • the engagement flanges 424a, 424b can include a mated, keyed interface that ensures that the first and second adapter halves 402a, 402b are oriented at a predetermined rotational position relative to one another about a central axis of the adapter assembly closure 400.
  • the engagement ends 443a, 443b of the adapter halves 402a, 402b can include coupler guide surfaces 412a, 412b and ramps 416a, 416b.
  • the coupler guide surfaces 412a, 412b guide the coupler 406 over the engagement ends 443a, 443b.
  • the ramps 416a, 416b provide a snap-fit connection that ensures the coupler 406 is not intentionally removed from the engagement ends 443a, 443b.
  • the coupler 406 can have a generally semi-circular structure and can have a one-piece configuration.
  • the coupler 406 can define a channel 420 defined between a pair of opposing arms 422, 424.
  • a pair of walls are positioned on opposite sides of the channel 420.
  • Each wall includes a ramp receiver 426 for receiving the ramps 416a, 416b on the engagement ends 443a, 443b of the adapter halves 402a, 402b.
  • the coupler 406 is locked in place and functions to hold the first and second adapter halves 402a, 402b together.
  • the ramps 416a, 416b can also be referred to as tabs, retainers, retaining members or other structures that are received within corresponding receptacles defined by the coupler 406.
  • the coupler 406 can include tabs, retaining members or other male features that snap within corresponding receptacles or other female structures defined at the engagement ends 443a, 443b of the adapter halves 402a, 402b.
  • FIGS 20-21 show still another adapter assembly closure 500 in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.
  • the adapter assembly closure 500 can be configured for mechanically and optically connecting together two fiber optic connectors such as the ruggedized fiber optic connectors 300a, 300b.
  • the illustrated adapter assembly closure 500 can include first and second adapter halves 502a, 502b defining connector ports 505a, 505b aligned along a connector insertion axis Li.
  • a ferrule alignment device 700 can be mounted within the interior of the adapter assembly closure 500.
  • the ferrule alignment device 700 can include a flange captured between engagement ends 543a, 543b of the adapter halves 502a, 502b.
  • the connector ports 505a, 505b can be compatible with the ruggedized fiber optic connectors 300a, 300b.
  • the connector ports 505a, 505b can include interior threads that configure to mate with the exterior threads of the rotatable fasteners of the ruggedized fiber optic connectors 300a, 300b.
  • the adapter assembly closure 500 can be configured to optically and mechanically couple the fiber optic connectors 300a, 300b together in the same manner described above with respect to the adapter assembly closure 100.
  • the seal 112 can mount between the engagement ends 543a, 543b in the same manner as the seal 112 mounts between the engagement ends 143a, 143b.
  • the engagement interface between the engagement ends 543a, 543b provides a connection between the adapter halves 502a, 502b without requiring an additional coupler.
  • the engagement ends 543a, 543b can have an integral snap-fit interface for allowing the engagement ends 543a, 543b to be directly coupled together via a snap-fit connection.
  • the engagement ends 543a, 543b can be keyed relative to one another so that the pieces can be installed in only one rotational orientation relative to one another.
  • the engagement end 543a can include male features (e.g., ribs, tabs, retention members or other structures) that snap-fit within corresponding female structures (e.g., openings, recesses, receptacles, etc.) defined by the engagement end 543b.
  • the engagement end 543a includes male and female snap-fit structures that mate with corresponding male and female snap-fit structures of the engagement end 543b.
  • the first and second adapter halves 502a, 502b have identical configurations.
  • a sealing member is compressed between the engagement ends 543a, 543b of the adapter halves 502a, 502b to provide
  • a snap-fit interface provided at the engagement ends 543a, 543b can include a series of ramps 508 and corresponding ramp receivers 510 integrally oriented at the engagement ends 543a, 543b of the first and second adapter halves 502a, 502b.
  • Each adapter halve 502a, 502b can include at least one ramp 508 and at least one receiver 510 oriented adjacent to each other.
  • the engagement ends 543a, 543b of the adapter halves 502a, 502b connect to each other by inserting a ramp 508 of one of the adapter halves into a ramp receiver 510 of the other engaging adapter halve.
  • the illustrated ramps 508 can secure within the corresponding ramp receivers 510 with a snap-fit.
  • FIGS 22-25 depict an enclosure 600 in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.
  • the enclosure 600 includes a base 602 and a cover 604 that form the enclosure.
  • the enclosure can also be referred to as a housing, box, terminal or other like terms.
  • the base 602 and the cover 604 can be referred to as first and second housing pieces.
  • the enclosure 600 is environmentally sealed.
  • a perimeter seal 603 can be defined between the base 602 and the cover 604.
  • the base 602 and the cover 604 can be coupled together by latches, clamps or other types of structures.
  • the base 602 and the cover 604 can be connected at one side by a hinge arrangement 605.
  • the base 602 and the cover 604 can be secured at a side opposite from the hinge arrangement 605 by fasteners, latches, clamps or other structures.
  • the enclosure can house optical components such as optical splices, splice trays, passive optical splitters, and wavelength division multiplexers.
  • the enclosure 600 can include a sealed mounting location 608 for mounting an adapter assembly closure in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.
  • an adapter assembly closure such as the adapter assembly closure 200 can be mounted at the sealed mounting location 608.
  • the adapter assembly closure 200 can be mounted at the mounting location 608 with the non- ruggedized connector port 205b facing an interior of the enclosure 600 and the ruggedized connector port 105a accessible from outside the enclosure 600.
  • the mounting location 608 can include sealant for providing an environmental seal about an exterior of the adapter assembly closure 200.
  • a first volume of sealant 610 (e.g., gel, mastic, or other sealing material) can be provided within a receptacle 612 defined by the base 602 and a second volume sealant 611 (e.g., gel, mastic or other sealing material) can be provided within a similar receptacle 614 defined within the cover 604.
  • the mounting location 608 can also include access openings 613 on opposite sides of the sealant receptacles 612, 614 for receiving ends of the adapter assembly closure 200. The openings can be defined by cut-outs such as semi-circular recesses or notches defined by the base 602 and the cover 604.
  • the base 602 and the cover 604 are opened and the adapter assembly closure 200 is positioned at the mounting location 608 within the access opening 613 defined by either the base 602 or the cover 604. Subsequently, the enclosure 600 is closed by securing the base 602 and the cover 604 together such that the adapter assembly enclosure 200 is captured between the cover 604 and the base 602. When the base 602 and the cover 604 are closed, the adapter assembly closure 600 is sandwiched between the volumes of sealant 610, 611 such that the volumes of sealant deform about the exterior of the adapter assembly closure 200 to form a circumferential seal about the exterior of the adapter assembly closure 200.
  • the adapter assembly closure 200 can include structure for anchoring the adapter assembly closure 200 within the mounting location 608 such that axial movement of the adapter assembly closure 200 along its central axis is prevented or limited relative to the enclosure 600.
  • the adapter assembly closure 200 can include a structural feature that is captured axially between corresponding axial retention features such as walls, projections, retainers or other structures provided by the enclosure 600.
  • the coupler 206 can be captured between the retention features.
  • ribs or other structures provided on the adapter assembly closure 200 can be captured between the retention features.
  • the enclosure can have a retention feature that is captured between retention features provided on the adapter assembly closure 20. In either situation, when the adapter assembly closure 200 is captured between the base 602 and the cover 604 at the mounting location 608, a mechanical interlock is provided between the enclosure 600 and the adapter assembly closure 200 limits or prevents axial movement of the adapter assembly closure 200.
  • couplers in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure can define an interior passage or cavity having a profile that is tapered such that when the coupler is mounted over the engagement flanges of corresponding adapter halves, the engagement flanges of the adapter halves are forced axially together.
  • the adapter halves have been referred to as halves, it is not required that the halves be identical or true exact halves in a geometric sense.

Landscapes

  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Optics & Photonics (AREA)
  • Mechanical Coupling Of Light Guides (AREA)

Abstract

La présente invention concerne une fermeture d'ensemble adaptateur de fibres optiques permettant d'accoupler optiquement et mécaniquement deux connecteurs de fibres optiques. La fermeture comprend une première moitié d'adaptateur dotée d'une extrémité d'orifice de connecteur positionnée à l'opposé d'une extrémité de mise en prise. L'extrémité d'orifice de connecteur définit un orifice de connecteur et l'extrémité de mise en prise comprend une bride de mise en prise. La fermeture comprend également une seconde moitié d'adaptateur dotée d'une extrémité d'orifice de connecteur disposée à l'opposé d'une extrémité de mise en prise. L'extrémité d'orifice de connecteur définit un orifice de connecteur et l'extrémité de mise en prise comprend une bride de mise en prise. La bride de mise en prise de la première moitié d'adaptateur est conçue pour s'accoupler avec la bride de mise en prise de la seconde moitié d'adaptateur. La fermeture comprend également un dispositif d'accouplement qui est monté sur les brides de mise en prise accouplées des première et seconde moitiés d'adaptateur pour fixer l'une à l'autre les extrémités de mise en prise des première et seconde moitiés d'adaptateur.
PCT/EP2017/050289 2016-01-08 2017-01-07 Adaptateur de fibres optiques tout terrain Ceased WO2017118749A2 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US201662276587P 2016-01-08 2016-01-08
US62/276,587 2016-01-08

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2017118749A2 true WO2017118749A2 (fr) 2017-07-13
WO2017118749A3 WO2017118749A3 (fr) 2017-08-17

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PCT/EP2017/050289 Ceased WO2017118749A2 (fr) 2016-01-08 2017-01-07 Adaptateur de fibres optiques tout terrain

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Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2018197410A1 (fr) * 2017-04-25 2018-11-01 CommScope Connectivity Belgium BVBA Module de connexion destiné à un bloc de gel presse-étoupe
EP4402524A4 (fr) * 2021-09-17 2025-08-27 Commscope Technologies Llc Convertisseurs pour connecteurs de fibres optiques

Family Cites Families (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5359688A (en) * 1994-03-04 1994-10-25 Siecor Corporation Metal internal holding clips for fiber optic connector coupling
US6554482B1 (en) * 2001-12-20 2003-04-29 Molex Incorporated Adapter system for fiber optic connectors
US7572065B2 (en) * 2007-01-24 2009-08-11 Adc Telecommunications, Inc. Hardened fiber optic connector
DE102011011523B4 (de) * 2011-02-17 2013-05-29 Tyco Electronics Services Gmbh Faseroptische Verbindungsanordnung und Adapterhülse

Cited By (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2018197410A1 (fr) * 2017-04-25 2018-11-01 CommScope Connectivity Belgium BVBA Module de connexion destiné à un bloc de gel presse-étoupe
US11262520B2 (en) 2017-04-25 2022-03-01 CommScope Connectivity Belgium BVBA Connection module for cable seal gel block
US11860436B2 (en) 2017-04-25 2024-01-02 CommScope Connectivity Belgium BVBA Connection module for cable seal gel block
EP4402524A4 (fr) * 2021-09-17 2025-08-27 Commscope Technologies Llc Convertisseurs pour connecteurs de fibres optiques

Also Published As

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