Patent ID: 6422763
Filing Date: 2002-07-23
Classification: G02B

Abstract:
An end fitting for a fiber optic cable for connection to a mating connector, said end fitting comprising a connector body surrounding an end of at least one fiber optic cable and an element movable relative to said connector body from a first position covering an end of said at least one fiber optic cable to a second position in which said end of said fiber optic cable is aligned with said mating connector and in which said movable element prevents separation of said end fitting and said mating connector;wherein means is provided for movably guiding said element on said connector body; and wherein said element is substantially U-shaped and has a base portion and first and second limbs, wherein said means for movably guiding said element comprises a pivot means disposed between said limbs and said connector body and defining a pivot axis for said element; and further comprising at least one guide feature provided at at least one of said first and second limbs, a further guide feature provided at said mating connector, said guide feature and said further guide feature cooperating to move said element from said first position to said second position during engagement movement of said end fitting relative to said mating connector.