Patent Publication Number: US-8979569-B2

Title: Modular connectors and associated systems and methods

Description:
TECHNICAL FIELD 
     The present disclosure relates to modular connectors and associated systems and methods and, in particular, to modular connectors for positioning a release action point such that interference with neighboring connectors in a high-density connector housing is minimized. 
     BACKGROUND 
     In the field of communications, a variety of data communication connectors and ports (also known as “jacks”) are implemented to interconnect, e.g., telecommunications equipment, data equipment, and the like.  FIG. 1  shows a conventional connector  100 , e.g., a registered jack (RJ) connector, before insertion into a port  150 , e.g., an RJ modular housing. The connector  100  includes a housing  102  and a set of contacts  104  disposed within the housing  102 . The port  150  includes an opening  152  configured and dimensioned to receive the connector  100  and a set of contact pins  154  disposed within the port  150 . 
     When the connector  100  is inserted into the port  150 , the contacts  104  in the connector  100  come into electrical communication with the contact pins  154  of the port to create an electrical connection between the connector  100  and the port  150 . In addition, when the connector  100  is inserted into the port  150 , a latch  108  located on a spring-loaded release lever  106  of the connector  100  detachably interlocks with a latch groove  156  within the port  150  to releasably secure the connector  100  in the port  150  and to maintain an electrical connection between the connector  100  and the port  150 . 
       FIG. 2  shows a side view of the conventional connector  100  inserted into the port  150 . In particular,  FIG. 2  shows the latch  108  on the release lever  106  of the connector  100  detachably interlocked with the latch groove  156  of the port  150 . As shown in  FIG. 3 , to remove the connector  100  from the port  150 , the end of the release lever  106  must be depressed by applying a force F. When the release lever  106  has been depressed, the connector  100  can be withdrawn/removed from the opening  152  of the port  150 , as shown in  FIG. 4 . 
     The connector  100  shown in  FIGS. 1-4  can be used, for example, to connect the end of an Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP) cable to a standard port. UTP is a widely used type of data transfer media and is generally a flexible and/or low cost media. UTP can be used for voice and/or data communications and is becoming the de facto standard for Local Area Networks (LANs) and other in-building voice and/or data communications applications. The wide acceptance and use of UTP for data and voice transmission is generally due to the large installed base, low cost and/or ease of new installation. An additional feature of UTP is that it can be used for a variety of applications, e.g., Ethernet, Token Ring, FDDI, ATM, EIA-232, ISDN, analog telephone (POTS), other types of communication, and the like. This flexibility allows the same type of cable/system components (such as data jacks, plugs, cross-patch panels, and patch cables) to be used for an entire building, unlike shielded twisted pair (STP) media. There are typically four pairs of copper wires that are used for UTP, with each pair forming a twisted pair. The four pairs can be used in horizontal cabling, patch cabling and/or patch cordage. Patch cordage can be any unspecified length of UTP cable that is assembled by pressure crimping onto a RJ45 or similar type plug. 
     With reference to  FIG. 5A , conventional connectors  100 , e.g., top connector  100   a  and bottom connector  100   b , are shown inserted into ports  150  of a multiple connector port housing  160 , e.g., a multiple horizontal port device modular housing, a high-density patch panel, and the like. Although only two ports  150  are illustrated, it is known in the industry that multiple connector port housings  160  can include, e.g., forty-eight ports  150  in one rack unit of space, including multiple rows and columns of ports  150  positioned adjacent to each other. The large number of ports  150  can be accommodated by arranging the ports  150  in two rows and vertically aligning a port  150  in the first row and a port in the second row. Switching devices with similar high-density port  150  configurations are also known in the industry. 
     Still with reference to  FIG. 5A , the top and bottom connectors  100   a  and  100   b  are shown in a vertically aligned position relative to each other. The top port  150  includes a top connector  100   a  and the bottom port  150  includes a bottom connector  100   b  inserted therein through the opening  152 . As can be seen from  FIG. 5A , when two or more top and bottom connectors  100   a  and  100   b  are positioned adjacent to each other in a multiple connector port housing  160 , there is limited space for a user&#39;s finger(s) to access the release lever  106  of the bottom connector  100   b  due to the top connector  100   a  positioned directly above the release lever  106  of the bottom connector  100   b . In particular, a release action point or removal area designated by area A is generally required to access and depress the release lever  106  with a force F to remove the bottom connector  100   b  from the port  150 . As such, it can be cumbersome to remove the bottom connector  100   b  due to the space limitation. In addition, removing the bottom connector  100   b  can result in movement or dislodging of the top connector  100   a , which could affect the electrical communication between the contacts  104  in the top connector  100   a  and the contact pins  154  of the top port  150 . 
       FIG. 5B  shows another view of conventional connectors, e.g., a top connector  100   a  and a bottom connector  100   b , inserted into ports of a multiple connector port housing  160 ′. The components of  FIG. 5B  are substantially similar to the components shown in  FIG. 5A . In particular,  FIG. 5B  further illustrates the limited space for a user&#39;s finger(s)  162  to access the release lever  106  of the bottom connector  100   b  due to the top connector  100   a  positioned directly above the release lever  106  of the bottom connector  100   b . The area between the release lever  106  of the bottom connector  100   b  and a bottom surface of the top connector  100   a  is indicated in  FIG. 5B  as distance B′. In general, when a top and bottom connector  100   a  and  100   b  are inserted into vertically-aligned ports  150  in a conventional housing  160 ′, the distance B′ can be approximately 0.15 inches. The area A′ indicated in  FIG. 5B  represents the release action point or removal area located between the top and bottom connectors  100   a  and  100   b  for a user&#39;s finger(s)  162  to pass to access and depress the release lever  106  of the bottom connector  100   b . In conventional housings  160 ′, the area A′ can be approximately 0.4 inches. Due to the limited area A′ and distance B′, it is generally easier for a user to remove the top connector  100   a  in order to remove the bottom connector  100   b . Thus, in addition to complicating the process for disconnecting a bottom connector  100   b , the restricted area A′ and distance B′ of housings  160 ′ with conventional connectors may require dual network disconnection, i.e., disconnection of both the top connector  100   a  and the bottom connector  100   b.    
     Thus, a need exists for modular connectors which can be easily removed from a port located in a high-density connector port housing configuration, while preventing or reducing interference with electrical connections associated with surrounding connectors. These and other needs are addressed by the modular connectors and associated methods of the present disclosure. 
     SUMMARY 
     In accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, exemplary modular connector assemblies are provided that generally include a connector that includes a connector housing and an attachment unit that includes an attachment unit housing. The connector housing generally includes a first coupler element. The attachment unit housing generally includes a second coupler element. The first coupler element can be configured and dimensioned to interlock with the second coupler element for detachably securing the connector to the attachment unit. In some embodiments, the first coupler element can be configured and dimensioned to interlock with the second coupler element for movably securing the connector to the attachment unit. 
     The first coupler element can be a female coupler element and the second coupler element can be a male coupler element. In some embodiments, the first coupler element can be a male coupler element and the second coupler element can be a female coupler element. The female coupler element can include two channels. The male coupler element can include two protrusions. In some embodiments, the first coupler element can be more than two male coupler elements and the second coupler element can be more than two female coupler elements. The two channels can be configured and dimensioned to receive therein the two protrusions. Each of the two protrusions can include a catch member. Each of the two channels can include a stop member for releasably interlocking with the catch member of each of the two protrusions. 
     The connector housing generally includes a connector opening and defines a connector interior space. The attachment unit housing generally includes an attachment unit opening complementary to the connector opening and defines an attachment unit interior space. The connector generally includes a release lever and a latch slide. The attachment unit generally includes an actuation lever which includes a living hinge. The latch slide includes an opening passing therethrough configured and dimensioned to receive the actuation lever of the attachment unit therethrough. The latch slide also includes an angled surface configured and dimensioned to receive thereon a surface of the actuation lever. The release lever generally defines a release lever distal end, e.g., a free end, and the actuation lever defines an actuation lever distal end, e.g., a free end. The release lever distal end and the actuation lever distal end can be configured and dimensioned to releasably mate relative to each other such that actuation of the actuation lever actuates the release lever. For example, the free end of the release lever can define a flat surface and the free end of the actuation lever can define a curved surface. In some embodiments, the free end of the release lever can define a hook and the free end of the actuation lever can define a pin. Thus, when the attachment unit is movably secured to the connector unit, movement of the free end of the actuation lever results in movement of the free end of the release lever. Further, when the attachment unit is movably secured to the connector unit, movement of the free end of the actuation lever generally results in movement of the free end of the release lever. 
     In accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, exemplary methods of modular connector assembly are provided that generally include providing a connector that includes a connector housing and providing an attachment unit that includes an attachment unit housing. The connector housing generally includes a first coupler element. The attachment unit housing generally includes a second coupler element. The exemplary method includes detachably securing the connector relative to the attachment unit by interlocking the first coupler element relative to the second coupler element such that the connector and the attachment unit are in mechanical communication relative to each other. In some embodiments, the method includes movably securing the connector relative to the attachment unit by interlocking the first coupler element relative to the second coupler element. 
     The first coupler element can be a female coupler element and the second coupler element can be a male coupler element. In some embodiments, the first coupler element can be a male coupler element and the second coupler element can be a female coupler element. The female coupler element includes two channels and the male coupler element includes two protrusions. Each of the two protrusions generally includes a catch member and each of the two channels includes a stop member for releasably interlocking with the catch member of each of the two protrusions. Interlocking the first coupler element relative to the second coupler element generally includes interlocking the catch members of the two protrusions with the stop members of the two channels. 
     The connector generally includes a release lever and a latch slide. The attachment unit generally includes an actuation lever, the actuation lever including a living hinge. The exemplary method includes passing the actuation lever through an opening formed in the latch slide. The release lever generally defines a release lever distal end and the actuation lever defines an actuation lever distal end. The method includes releasably mating the release lever distal end and the actuation lever distal end relative to each other. The method further includes pulling the attachment unit in a direction away from the connector to depress the release lever. 
     In accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, exemplary modular connector systems are provided that generally include a modular connector assembly and a port housing. The modular connector assembly generally includes a connector that includes a connector housing, the connector housing including a first coupler element. The modular connector assembly generally also includes an attachment unit that includes an attachment unit housing, the attachment unit housing includes a second coupler element. The first coupler element can be configured and dimensioned to interlock with the second coupler element for detachably securing the connector to the attachment unit. In some embodiments, the attachment unit can be movably secured to the connector through an interlocking between the first coupler element and the second coupler element. The port housing can be configured and dimensioned to detachably receive therein at least a portion of the connector. In some embodiments, the port housing can be configured and dimensioned to releasably secure therein the connector for establishing an electrical communication between a contact inside the connector and a conductive member inside the port housing. Actuating, e.g., pulling, translating, and the like, the attachment unit in a direction away from the connector generally detaches and/or releases the connector from the port housing. The connector generally includes a release lever and the attachment unit generally includes an actuation lever. Actuation of the actuation lever results in actuation of the release lever. 
     In accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, exemplary modular connector assemblies are provided that generally include a connector and an attachment unit. The connector generally includes a release lever. The attachment unit generally includes an actuation lever. The connector and the attachment unit can be configured and dimensioned to be detachably interlocked relative to each other such that the connector and the attachment unit are in mechanical communication relative to each other. Actuation of the actuation lever generally actuates the release lever. In some embodiments, the assembled connector and attachment unit can remain movable relative to each other. Thus, the attachment unit can be moved in a direction away from the connector to actuate the actuation lever of the attachment unit and to actuate the release lever of the connector. 
     In accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, exemplary methods of modular connector assembly are provided that generally include providing a connector and providing an attachment unit. The connector generally includes a release lever. The attachment unit generally includes an actuation lever. The method generally includes detachably interlocking the connector relative to the attachment unit. The method further includes actuating the actuation lever of the attachment unit to actuate the release lever of the connector. In some embodiments, the method includes assembling the connector and the attachment unit such that the attachment unit remains movable relative to the connector. The method generally includes moving the attachment unit in a direction away from the connector to actuate the actuation lever of the attachment unit and to actuate the release lever of the connector. 
     Prior to the step of moving the attachment unit in a direction away from the connector, the method includes, inserting the connector into a port housing to establish electrical communication between a contact in the connector and a conductive member in the port housing. After the step of moving the attachment unit in a direction away from the connector, the method generally includes removing the connector from the port housing to break the electrical communication between the contact in the connector and the conductive member in the port housing. During the step of moving the attachment unit in a direction away from the connector, the attachment unit can translate relative to the connector. After the step of moving the attachment unit in a direction away from the connector, the method generally includes automatically moving the attachment unit in a direction towards the connector. 
     In accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, exemplary modular connector systems are provided that generally include a modular connector assembly and a port housing. The modular connector assembly generally includes a connector and an attachment unit. The connector includes a release lever and the attachment unit includes an actuation lever. The connector and the attachment unit can be configured and dimensioned to be detachably interlocked relative to each other. The port housing can be configured and dimensioned to detachably receive therein the connector. Actuating the actuation lever of the attachment unit actuates the release lever of the connector to detach the connector from the port housing. 
     In accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, exemplary modular connector assemblies are provided that generally include a connector and an attachment unit. The connector generally includes a connector housing that includes a first coupler element, at least one contact located within the connector housing, and a release lever. The attachment unit generally includes an attachment unit housing that includes a second coupler element. The first coupler element can be configured and dimensioned to interlock with the second coupler element to movably secure the connector to the attachment unit. The assemblies can generally include means for actuating the release lever when the attachment unit is movably secured to the connector. In general, the assemblies include means for allowing a user to grasp a back end of the attachment unit. 
     Other objects and features will become apparent from the following detailed description considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. It is to be understood, however, that the drawings are designed as an illustration only and not as a definition of the limits of the invention. Further, the various features and/or combinations of features described herein and illustrated in the accompanying figures can be arranged and/or organized differently to result in exemplary embodiments which are still within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       To assist those of skill in the art in making and using the disclosed modular connectors and associated systems and methods, reference is made to the accompanying figures, wherein: 
         FIG. 1  is a side view of a connector of the prior art prior to insertion into a port housing with contact pins; 
         FIG. 2  is a side view of a connector of the prior art inserted into a port housing with contact pins; 
         FIG. 3  is a side view of a connector of the prior art inserted into a port housing with contact pins; 
         FIG. 4  is side view of a connector of the prior art removed from a port housing with contact pins; 
         FIGS. 5A and 5B  are side views of connectors of the prior art inserted into a multiple connector port housing; 
         FIG. 6  is a perspective view of an exemplary connector of a modular connector assembly according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 7  is a perspective view of an exemplary attachment unit of a modular connector assembly according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 8  is a perspective view of an exemplary modular connector assembly according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 9  is a perspective view of an exemplary modular connector assembly with a attachment unit pulled away from a connector according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 10  is a side view of an exemplary modular connector assembly according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 11  is a side view of an exemplary modular connector assembly according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 12  is a perspective view of an exemplary latch slide according the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 13  is a perspective view of an exemplary connector according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 14  is a perspective view of an exemplary attachment unit according to the present disclosure; 
         FIGS. 15A-C  are perspective views of exemplary rear ends for a release lever and an actuation lever according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 16  is a perspective view of an exemplary modular connector assembly according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 17  is a perspective view of an exemplary modular connector assembly with a attachment unit pulled away from a connector according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 18  is a side view of an exemplary modular connector assembly prior to insertion into a port housing; 
         FIG. 19  is a side view of an exemplary modular connector assembly inserted into a port housing; 
         FIG. 20  is a side view of an exemplary modular connector assembly inserted into a port housing; 
         FIG. 21  is a side view of an exemplary modular connector assembly removed from a port housing; and 
         FIG. 22  is a side view of an exemplary modular connector assembly inserted into a multiple connector port housing. 
     
    
    
     DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENT(S) 
     In the description which follows, like parts are marked throughout the specification and figures with the same reference numerals. Figures are not necessarily to scale and, in certain views, parts may have been exaggerated for purposes of clarity. It should be understood that the relative terminology used herein, such as “front”, “rear”, “left”, “top”, “bottom”, “vertical”, and “horizontal” is solely for the purposes of clarity and designation and is not intended to limit the invention to embodiments having a particular position and/or orientation. Accordingly, such relative terminology should not be construed to limit the scope of the present invention. 
     The present disclosure relates to modular connector assemblies for connecting the connectors of cables containing wires transmitting digital or analog signals to standard ports or jacks, such as those on computer-networking switches or on patch panels. It should be understood that the terms “port” and “jack” are used interchangeably in this disclosure. The exemplary connector assemblies interface with high frequency transmission media, e.g., RJ type connectors, such as those used for the ends of unshielded twisted pair patch cables. The present disclosure also relates to methods for removing a connector, e.g., an RJ latched plug assembly, from a port or jack, e.g., an RJ modular housing, which is either a single port or a multiport housing device. The exemplary assemblies and methods described herein allow for advantageous and convenient disconnection of the connector from a port without disruption to the electrical connections established by neighboring connectors and ports. For example, the exemplary connector assemblies move the location of the release action point to a more advantageous region such that sufficient room exists for removal of an exemplary connector from a high-density connector housing, e.g., a housing for a device with forty-eight ports that fits in one rack unit of space. 
     With reference to  FIG. 6 , a perspective view of an exemplary connector  200 , e.g., a communication plug, of a modular connector or plug assembly is provided. The connector  200  generally includes a connector housing  202 . The housing  202  can be fabricated from, e.g., a plastic, any other non-conductive material, and the like. The housing  202  includes an opening  204  at a rear end  208  and an interior space  206  defined by the cavity within the housing  202  which can be accessed through the opening  204 . The interior space  206  at the front end  210  of the connector  200  includes a plurality of insulation displacement contacts (IDCs)  212 . 
     For example,  FIG. 6  shows the connector  200  with eight IDCs  212  to correspond to the eight wires in a Category 5 or Category 6 UTP cable. However, it should be understood that the exemplary connector  200  can be used for a variety of cables having different amounts of IDCs  212 . When the connector  200  is connected to a cable (not shown), the wires of the cable can pass through the opening  204 , into the interior space  206  and terminate at the IDCs  212  such that each wire is in electrical communication with a respective IDC  212 . The exterior of the housing  202  includes a plurality of openings  214  corresponding to the number of IDCs  212  in the connector  200  to permit each IDC  212  to electrically connect with a corresponding terminal or contact pin on a jack or port when the modular connector  200  is inserted in the jack or port. 
     The connector  200  also includes a release lever  216 , e.g., a flexible or spring-loaded release lever, fixated to and protruding from the top surface  224  of the housing  202 . The release lever  216  can be used to detachably interlock or secure the connector in an opening of a port or jack. In particular, the release lever  216  defines a free or rear end  218  and includes shoulders  220 , e.g., latches, protrusions, and the like, on each side of the release lever  216 . When the connector  200  is inserted into a port, the shoulders  220  can bear against an interior of a front wall of the port, e.g., a latch groove, such that the connector  200  is releasably secured in the port and is protected from being accidentally dislodged. To remove the connector  200  from the port, a user must depress the release lever  216  such that the rear end  218  moves in the direction towards the top surface  224  of the housing  202 . It should be understood that the normal position of the flexible or spring-loaded release lever  216  is protruding in an angled or upward direction from the top surface  224  of the housing  202 . In particular, the spring-loaded force acts to push the rear end  218  of the release lever  216  in an upward direction away from the top surface  224  of the housing  202 . When the release lever  216  is depressed, the shoulders  220  also move in the direction towards the top surface  224  of the housing  202  such that the shoulders  220  can clear the latch groove, i.e., the obstruction created by the port, thereby allowing removal of the connector from the port. When the release lever  216  is no longer depressed, it can spring back into its normal position. 
     The connector of  FIG. 6  also includes a latch slide  222  on the top surface  224  of the housing  202 . The latch slide  222  can be integrally formed with the housing  202  through, e.g., molding. In some embodiments, the latch slide  222  can be attached to the housing  202  as a separate component.  FIG. 12  shows an enlarged perspective view of the latch slide  222 . The latch slide  222  defines a front side  226  and a rear side  228 . An opening  230  at the bottom of the latch slide  222  can extend through the latch slide  222  from the front side  226  to the rear side  228 . The front side  226  of the latch slide  222  can define an angled planar surface that extends from the top front edge  231  of the opening  230  to near the top of the front side  226  of the latch slide  222 . 
     The right side  232  and left side  234  of the connector  200  can also include a first coupler element, e.g., a female coupler element configured as channels  236  or openings within the housing  202  walls. The channels  236  can be configured as, e.g., rectangular, square, and the like. The opening into each channel  236  can begin at or near the rear end  208  of the housing  208  and the channel  236  can extend a predetermined distance into the housing  202  wall, i.e., a distance sufficient to receive the second coupler element discussed below. The first coupler element can also include a stop member  238  dividing each channel  236  into a front channel portion  240  and a rear channel portion  242 . The functions of the latch slide  222 , the channels  236  and the stop member  238  are explained in greater detail below. 
       FIG. 7  is a perspective view of an exemplary attachment unit  300 , e.g., a rear unit, of a modular connector or plug assembly. The attachment unit  300  defines a housing  302  which includes a front end  304  and a rear end  306 . The housing  302  can be fabricated from, e.g., a plastic, a non-conductive material, and the like. The front end  304  includes a first opening  308 , e.g., a rectangular opening, and the rear end  306  includes a second opening  310 . The second opening  310  can be configured as, e.g., circular, elliptical, rectangular, square, and the like. The first opening  308  can be configured and dimensioned substantially similarly to the opening  204  of the connector  200 . Both the first and second opening  308  and  310  connect to an interior space  312  of the housing  302 . When the connector  200  and the attachment unit  300  are detachably and/or movably secured relative to each other, the mating of the opening  204  of the connector  200  and the first opening  308  of the attachment unit  300  can form a substantially uniform interior space. 
     The attachment unit  300  generally includes a second coupler element, e.g., a male coupler element defining a protrusion  314 . The protrusion  314  can be, e.g., a rectangular protrusion extending from the front end  304  of the right side  316  and the left side  318  of the housing  302 . In some embodiments, the protrusion  314  configuration can be varied so long as the protrusion  314  remains complementary to the channels  236  of the connector  200 . Each protrusion  314  includes a protrusion body  320  and a catch member  322 . The catch member  322  generally defines an angled front surface  324  and a substantially flat rear surface  326 . The protrusions  314  can extend from the front end  304  of the housing  302  in a cantilever manner. The protrusions  314  can be fabricated from, e.g., a plastic, a non-conductive material, and the like, and can be integrally formed within the housing  302  of the attachment unit  300  by, e.g., molding. In particular, the protrusions  314  can be dimensioned to have a spring-like or flexible property. Thus, when the protrusions  314  are inserted into the channels  236  of the connector  200  during assembly of the modular connector assembly, the flexibility of the protrusions  314  and the angled front surface  324  of the catch member  322  allows each catch member  322  to move past and beyond the respective stop member  238  and deeper into the channel  236 . The flexibility of the protrusions  322  during insertion of the catch members  322  beyond the stop member  238  can create a “snap fit” when the catch member  322  is advanced beyond the stop member  238 . The catch member  322  of the protrusions  314  can thereby pass from the rear portion  242  to the front portion  240  of the channel  236 . Once the protrusions  314  have been inserted into the channels  236  of the connector  200 , the catch members  322  are prevented from moving back and out of the channels  236  by the stop members  238 . In particular, the flat rear surface  326  of the catch members  322  abuts the stop members  238  and prevents the protrusions  314  from being withdrawn from the channels  236 . It should be understood that a compressive force can be applied onto the protrusions  314  and/or catch members  322  to slightly bend the protrusions  314  inwardly such that the catch members  322  can move past the stop members  238  to remove the protrusions  314  from the channels  236 . 
     The top surface  328  of the housing  302  includes an actuation lever  330 , e.g., a protrusion extending in the direction of the front end  304  of the housing  302 . The actuation lever  330  includes a fixed portion  332  and a lever portion  334 . The fixed portion  332  can be fixed to the top surface  328  of the housing  302  and can extend from near the center of the top surface  328  of the housing  302  past the front end  304  of the top surface  328  of the housing  302 . A front end  336  of the lever portion  334  can be connected to the protruding fixed portion  332  via a hinge  340 , e.g., a living hinge. The hinge  340  can have a spring-like property to maintain the lever portion  334  in a normal position, e.g., substantially perpendicular to the fixed portion  332 , unless a force is applied to the lever portion  334 . The free or rear end  338  of the lever portion  334  can be curved in a downwards direction to form a hooked shape. It should be understood that the term “rear end”, when used with respect to the lever portion  334  of the actuation lever  330 , identifies the end of the lever portion  334  which is not connected to the hinge  340 , i.e., the free end, and not the end of the lever portion  334  which his more rearward in relation to the orientation of the attachment member  300 . For example, the rear end  338  of the lever portion  334  can be bent at an angle relative to the front end  336  of the lever portion  334  and can define a mating surface  342  for mating with the rear end  218  of the release lever  216  of the connector  200 . 
     Turning now to  FIG. 8 , a perspective view of an exemplary modular connector assembly  400  (hereinafter “assembly  400 ”) is provided. In particular, the assembly  400  includes an exemplary connector  200  detachably and/or movably interlocked relative to the exemplary attachment unit  300 . To attach the attachment unit  300  to the connector  200 , the rear end  338  of the actuation lever  330  can be pressed in the direction of the top surface  328  of the housing  302  such that the lever portion  334  is substantially parallel with the top surface  328  of the housing  302 . When the lever portion  334  has been oriented in this substantially parallel position, the lever portion  334  can be passed through the opening  230  on the bottom of the latch slide  222 . The lever portion  334  can be passed through the opening  230  as the protrusions  314  are inserted into the channels  236  such that the catch members  322  advance past the stop members  238 . 
     After the lever portion  334  has passed through the opening  230  of the latch slide  222 , the bias of the living hinge  340  can force the lever portion  334  to rotate about the living hinge  340  (with the living hinge  340  serving as a fulcrum) such that the rear end  338  of the lever portion  334  moves upwards and away from the top surface  328  of the housing  302 . The lever portion  334  can continue to rotate about the living hinge  340  until the lever portion  334  rests against the angled front side  226  of the latch slide  222 . The angle of the front side  226  and/or the dimensions of the opening  230  can be selected to be compatible with the dimensions of the actuation lever  330 . When the lever portion  334  is positioned against the angled front side  226  of the latch slide  222 , the curved rear end  338  of the lever portion  334  can be positioned to surround and/or mate against the rear end  218  of the release lever  216  of the connector  200 . In particular, the mating surface  342  of the rear end  338  of the lever portion  334  can be positioned adjacent to and pressed against the top surface of the rear end  218  of the release lever  216 . However, it should be understood that the mated rear ends  338  and  218  maintain the release lever  216  in an expanded position, i.e., the release lever  216  is substantially raised to its highest position. Thus, actuation of the lever portion  334  can, in turn, actuate the release lever  216 . Prior to and/or after the assembly  400  has been assembled, the assembly  400  can be connected to a cable, e.g., a Category 5, a Category 6, and the like, UTP cable such that the ends of the wires in the cable terminate at the IDCs  212  contained within the housing  202  of the connector  200 . In particular, the wires in the cable can pass through the second opening of the attachment unit  300 , through the interior space  312  of the attachment unit, through the first opening  308  of the attachment unit  300  and the opening  204  of the connector  200 , and into the interior space  206  of the connector  200 . For example, an assembler can first pass the end of the cable through the attachment unit  300 . Next, the assembler can attach the end of the cable to the connector  200  such that the wires in the cable terminate at the contacts  212 . Further, the assembler can secure attachment unit  300  to the connector  200  in a manner described above such that the attachment unit  300  can move relative to the connector  200  to actuate the release lever  216 . 
     With reference to  FIG. 9 , the effect of translating the attachment unit  300  of the assembly  400  away from the connector  200  is shown. In particular, when the attachment unit  300  is translated away from the connector  200  by a force F 1  in the direction indicated in  FIG. 9 , the living hinge  340  also translates away from the connector  200 . The translation of the living hinge  340  prevents the lever portion  334  of the actuation lever  330  from resting on the angle front side  226  of the latch slide  222 . Rather, translating the attachment unit  300  away from the connector  300  forces the lever portion  334  to rotate about the living hinge  340  such that the rear end  338  of the lever portion  334  moves in a downward direction toward the top surface  328  of the housing  302 . Thus, application of force F 1  on the attachment unit  300  forces the mating surface  342  to apply a force F 2  on the top surface of the rear end  218  of the release lever  216 . Since the mating surface  342  of the lever portion  334  is positioned against the top surface of the rear end  218  of the release lever  216 , actuation of the lever portion  334  in a downward direction simultaneously actuates the rear end  218  of the release lever  216  to move in a downward direction toward the top surface  224  of the connector  200 , thereby rotating the release lever  216  in a downward direction at its fulcrum point. When the assembly  400  is inserted into a port or jack, the downward motion of the rear end  218  of the release lever  216  described above allows the shoulders  220  on the release lever  216  to clear the walls of the port, thus permitting removal of the assembly  400  from the port. The second opening  310  in the rear end  306  of the housing  302  can be sized such that translation of the attachment unit  300  is not hindered by the sheath of an attached cable passing through the second opening  310 . 
     In some embodiments, after translating the attachment unit  300  away from the connector  200  as shown in  FIG. 9 , if a user releases the attachment unit  300 , the spring forces of the actuation lever  330  and/or the release lever  216  can be sufficient to translate the attachment unit  300  back towards the connector  200 . In some embodiments, the spring forces can be sufficient to translate the attachment unit  300  to a position immediately adjacent to the connector  200 . For example, after the user releases the attachment unit  300 , the bias of the living hinge  340  can force the lever portion  334  to rotate about the living hinge  340  (with the living hinge  340  serving as a fulcrum) such that the rear end  338  of the lever portion  334  moves upwards and away from the top surface  328  of the housing. The lever portion  334  can continue to rotate about the living hinge  340  until the lever portion  334  rests against the angled front side  226  of the latch slide  222 . This “return” action of the attachment unit  300  can ensure that the shoulders  220  on the release lever  216  of the connector  200  are not accidentally unlatched from the latch groove or obstruction within a port. 
       FIG. 10  shows a side view of an exemplary assembly  400 . In particular, the connector  200  and the attachment unit  300  are shown detachably and/or movably interlocked relative to each other. As can be seen, the mating surface  342  of the rear end  338  of the actuation lever  330  is positioned directly above or adjacent to the top surface of the rear end  218  of the release lever  216 . Thus, an actuation of the rear end  338  of the actuation lever  330  in a downward direction toward the top surface  224  of the housing  202  by pulling the attachment unit  300  in the direction indicated, i.e., away from the connector  200 , forces the rear end  218  of the release lever  216  to simultaneously actuate in a downward direction in the direction of the top surface  224  of the housing  202 . In some embodiments, the rear end  306  of the attachment unit  300  can define a curved or flanged edge as shown in  FIG. 10  that a user can conveniently grasp when pulling the attachment unit  300  away from the connector  200 . 
       FIG. 11  shows a side view of an exemplary assembly  400  when the attachment unit  200  is pulled away from the connector  200  by a force F 1 . The dimensions of the channel  236  can be such that when the attachment unit  200  is pulled away from the connector  200 , the catch member  322  of the protrusion  314  can travel within the front channel portion  240  until the catch member  322  abuts the stop member  238  and a distance D exists between the rear end  208  of the connector  200  and the front end  304  of the attachment unit  300  exists. In particular, the distance D can be the distance required for the actuation lever  330  to rotate within the latch slide  222  to depress the release lever  216  sufficiently low to bypass the latch grooves or obstructions within a port which releasably interlock with the shoulders  220  of the release lever  216 . Thus, when the attachment unit  200  is pulled away from the connector  200  by a force F 1  and a distance D, the mating surface  342  of the actuation lever  330  indirectly applies a force F 2  on the rear end  218  of the release lever  216  to depress the release lever  216  in the direction of the top surface  224  of the housing  202 . Rather than requiring a user to directly provide a force to the rear end  218  of the release lever  216  to remove the connector  200  from the port, the force F 2  can be indirectly applied by pulling on the attachment unit  300 . The point of actuation is thereby moved from above the release lever  216  to the rear end  306  of the attachment unit  300 , providing the user with a greater area for actuating the assembly  400  for removal from the port. The greater area of actuation reduces or prevents the accidental dislodging or movement of neighboring connectors  200  from their respective ports. 
     Turning now to  FIG. 13 , an exemplary connector  200 ′ for an exemplary modular connector assembly is provided. The connector  200 ′ can be substantially similar in structure and function as the connector  200  described above, except for the rear end  218 ′ of the release lever  216 . In particular, the rear end  218  of the release lever  216  of the connector  200  defines a substantially flat surface to be mated with the substantially flat mating surface  342  of the actuation lever  330 , while the rear end  218 ′ of the release lever  216  of the connector  200 ′ defines a hooked surface  244 ′ configured and dimensioned to releasably interlock with a pin of an actuation lever  330 . The hooked surface  244 ′ generally defines a pocket  246 ′ configured and dimensioned to receive a pin-shaped structure therein. 
       FIG. 14  shows a perspective view of an exemplary attachment unit  300 ′ configured and dimensioned to releasably interlock with the rear end  218 ′ of the connector  200 ′ of  FIG. 13 . The attachment unit  300 ′ can be substantially similar in structure and function as the attachment unit  300  describe above, except for the rear end  338 ′ of the actuation lever  330 . In particular, the rear end  338  of the actuation lever  330  of the attachment unit  300  defines a substantially flat mating surface  342  to be mated with the substantially flat surface of the rear end  218  of the release lever  216 , while the rear end  338 ′ of the actuation lever  330  of the attachment unit  300  defines a mating surface  342 ′ configured as a pin, e.g., a cylindrical pin. The pin-shaped mating surface  342 ′ of the rear end  338 ′ can be releasably interlocked with the hooked surface  244 ′ of the release lever  216  by sliding and/or inserting the pin-shaped mating surface  342 ′ into the pocket  246 ′ of the hooked surface  244 ′. 
     The assembly of the connector  200 ′ relative to the attachment unit  300 ′ can be substantially similar to the assembly of the connector  200  relative to the attachment unit  300 . The actuation lever  330  can be depressed and passed through the opening  230  of the latch slide  222  until the lever portion  334  is positioned against the angled front side  226  of the latch slide  222 , while the protrusions  314  are inserted into the channels  236  until the catch members  322  are advanced past the stop members  238 . Once the lever portion  344  is in position against the angled front side  226  of the latch slide  222 , the hooked surface  244 ′ of the release lever  216  can be manipulated to surround and receive the pin-shaped mating surface  342 ′ within the pocket  246 ′ of the actuation lever  330 . 
       FIGS. 15A-C  show perspective views of the exemplary rear end  218 ′ of the release lever  216  and rear end  338 ′ of the actuation lever  330 . In particular,  FIG. 15A  illustrates the hooked surface  244 ′ and pocket  246 ′ of the release lever  216 ,  FIG. 15B  illustrates the pin-shaped mating surface  342 ′ of the actuation lever  330 , and  FIG. 15C  illustrates the releasable interlocking between the hooked surface  244 ′ and the pin-shaped mating surface  342 ′. As can be seen from  FIG. 15C , the pin-shaped mating surface  342 ′ can be slid in and out of the pocket  246 ′. 
       FIG. 16  shows a perspective view of an exemplary modular connector assembly  400 ′ (hereinafter “assembly  400 ”), including the detachably and/or movably interlocked connector  200 ′ and the attachment unit  300 ′. The connector  200 ′ and the attachment unit  300 ′ can be interlocked in the same manner as described above for assembly  400 . In particular, the actuation lever  330  can be passed through the opening  230  of the latch slide  222  and positioned against the angled front side  226  of the latch slide  222 , while the protrusions  314  are advanced into the channels  236  until the catch members  322  have been advanced past the stop member  238 . The rear end  338 ′ of the actuation lever  330  can then be interlocked with the rear end  218 ′ of the release lever  216  such that when the lever portion  334  of the actuation lever  330  is actuated in a downward direction toward the top surface  224  of the housing  202  due to a force applied to pull the attachment unit  300 ′ from the connector  200 ′, the release lever  216  can be simultaneously actuated to depress in a downward direction toward the top surface  224  of the housing  202 . The shoulders  220  of the release lever  216  can thereby be released from, e.g., a latch groove, located in a port without requiring the user to directly apply a force to the release lever  216 . 
       FIG. 17  illustrates the result of a force F 1  being applied to the attachment unit  300 ′ away from the connector  200 ′ after the attachment unit  300 ′ and the connector  200 ′ have been interlocked. The hooked surface  444 ′ of the rear end  338 ′ causes the rear end  218 ′ to move or depress downward when the rear end  338 ′ of the lever portion  334  moves downward due to the rearward translation of the attachment unit  300 ′. In particular, the application of force F 1  on the attachment unit  300 ′ indirectly applies a force F 2  on the rear end  318 ′ of the release lever  216  to depress the release lever  216  in the direction of the top surface  224  of the housing  202 . When the assembly  400 ′ is inserted into a port or jack, the downward motion of the rear end  218 ′ of the release lever  216  causes the shoulders  220  of the release lever  216  to clear the walls of the port, thus permitting removal of the assembly  400 ′ from the port. In particular, rather than requiring a user to directly provide a force to the rear end  218 ′ of the release lever  216  to remove the connector  200 ′ from the port, the force F 2  can be indirectly applied by pulling on the attachment unit  300 ′. The point of actuation is thereby moved from above the release lever  216  to the rear end  306  of the attachment unit  300 ′, providing the user with a greater area for actuating the assembly  400 ′ for removal from the port. The greater area of actuation reduces or prevents the accidental dislodging of neighboring connectors  200 ′ from their respective ports. 
     Turning now to  FIG. 18 , an exemplary assembly  400  is shown prior to insertion into a port housing  500 , e.g., a jack in a networking switch or patch panel. Although illustrated with assembly  400 , it should be understood that the description provided herein can apply substantially similarly to the exemplary assembly  400 ′. The port housing  500  generally includes an opening  502  configured and dimensioned to receive the connector  200 . The port housing  500  also includes contact pins  504  made of electrically conductive material for making an electrical connection with the IDCs  212  of the connector  200  and a latch groove  506  (and/or a protrusion) for releasably interlocking with the shoulders  220  of the connector  200 . The assembly  400  and, in particular, a portion of the connector  200 , can be inserted into the opening  502  until the shoulders  220  on the release lever  216  of the connector  200  releasably interlock with the latch groove  506  of the port housing  500 .  FIG. 19  shows the assembly  400  inserted into the port housing  500 . In particular, the shoulders  220  of the connector  200  have been releasably interlocked with the latch groove  506  of the port housing  500  and the contact pins  504  are in electrical contact with the IDCs  212 . 
     With reference to  FIG. 20 , the exemplary assembly  400  is shown being removed or detached from the port housing  500 . As described above, application of a force F 1  on the attachment unit  300  to pull the attachment unit  300  away from the connector  200  indirectly creates a force F 2  on the release lever  216  of the connector  200  such that the release lever  216  is depressed sufficiently for the shoulders  220  to be released from the latch groove  506  of the port housing  500 . The assembly  400  can then be removed from the opening  502  of the port housing  500 , as shown in  FIG. 21 . 
     Turning now to  FIG. 22 , the exemplary assemblies  400  are shown as inserted into port housings  500  of a multiple connector port housing  550 , e.g., a multiple port device modular housing, a high-density patch panel, and the like. In particular, the multiple connector port housing  550  includes a top assembly  400   a  and a bottom assembly  400   b  inserted therein. To remove one of the assemblies  400 , e.g., bottom assembly  400   b , from the port  150 , only the space directly behind the assembly  400   b  needs to be accessible for imparting the force F 2  on the release lever  216 . In particular, rather than requiring the user to access the small area between the top assembly  400   a  and the bottom assembly  400   b  connected to ports  150  of a high-density arrangement of ports  150  (as shown in  FIGS. 5A and 5B ), the exemplary assemblies  400  described herein position the release action point or removal area at a location designated by area A 1 , i.e., the area at the rear of the assembly  400 . As such, a connector  200  of an assembly  400  can be removed from a port  150  in a less cumbersome manner and the risk of interfering with the electrical communications established by neighboring connectors  200  and ports  150  is reduced or prevented. 
     While exemplary embodiments have been described herein, it is expressly noted that these embodiments should not be construed as limiting, but rather that additions and modifications to what is expressly described herein also are included within the scope of the invention. Moreover, it is to be understood that the features of the various embodiments described herein are not mutually exclusive and can exist in various combinations and permutations, even if such combinations or permutations are not made express herein, without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.