Patent Description:
The present disclosure relates generally to connectors having remote release, and more specifically to narrow width adapters and connectors, such as narrow pitch distance Lucent Connector (LC) duplex adapters and narrow width multi-fiber connectors.

The prevalence of the Internet has led to unprecedented growth in communication networks. Consumer demand for service and increased competition has caused network providers to continuously find ways to improve quality of service while reducing cost.

Certain solutions have included deployment of high-density interconnect panels. High-density interconnect panels may be designed to consolidate the increasing volume of interconnections necessary to support the fast-growing networks into a compacted form factor, thereby increasing quality of service and decreasing costs such as floor space and support overhead. However, the deployment of high-density interconnect panels has not been fully realized.

In communication networks, such as data centers and switching networks, numerous interconnections between mating connectors may be compacted into high-density panels. Panel and connector producers may optimize for such high densities by shrinking the connector size and/or the spacing between adjacent connectors on the panel. While both approaches may be effective to increase the panel connector density, shrinking the connector size and/or spacing may also increase the support cost and diminish the quality of service.

In a high-density panel configuration, adjacent connectors and cable assemblies may obstruct access to individual release mechanisms. Such physical obstructions may impede the ability of an operator to minimize the stresses applied to the cables and the connectors. For example, these stresses may be applied when a user reaches into a dense group of connectors and pushes aside surrounding optical fibers and connectors to access an individual connector release mechanism with his/her thumb and forefinger. Overstressing the cables and connectors may produce latent defects, compromise the integrity and/or reliability of the terminations, and potentially cause serious disruptions to network performance.

While an operator may attempt to use a tool, such as a screwdriver, to reach into a dense group of connectors and activate a release mechanism, adjacent cables and connectors may obstruct the operator's line of sight, making it difficult to guide the tool to the release mechanism without pushing aside the adjacent cables. Moreover, even when the operator has a clear line of sight, guiding the tool to the release mechanism may be a time-consuming process. Thus, using a tool may not be effective at reducing support time and increasing the quality of service.

Small Form Factor Pluggable Transceivers (SFP) are used presently in telecommunication infrastructures within rack mounted copper-to-fiber media converters, and are also known as Ethernet switches and/or patching hubs. These infrastructure Ethernet and fiber optic connections are evolving quickly to increase connection density due to limited space for such equipment. Although fiber optic connectors have become smaller over the years, they have not been designed to be any smaller than necessary to plug into commonly sized and readily available SFPs. However, as transceiver technologies develop, smaller SFPs will be used to create higher density switches and/or patching hub equipment. Accordingly, there is a need for fiber optic connectors that will meet the needs of future developments in smaller SFPs.

Such a relevant prior-art communication module is disclosed in <CIT>.

The invention relates to a connector as disclosed in independent claim <NUM>.

This disclosure is not limited to the particular systems, devices and methods described, as these may vary. The terminology used in the description is for the purpose of describing the particular versions or embodiments only, and is not intended to limit the scope.

As used in this document, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Nothing in this disclosure is to be construed as an admission that the embodiments described in this disclosure are not entitled to antedate such disclosure by virtue of prior invention. As used in this document, the term "comprising" means "including, but not limited to.

The following terms shall have, for the purposes of this application, the respective meanings set forth below.

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

A "fiber optic cable" or an "optical cable" refers to a cable containing one or more optical fibers for conducting optical signals in beams of light. The optical fibers can be constructed from any suitable transparent material, including glass, fiberglass, and plastic. The cable can include a jacket or sheathing material surrounding the optical fibers. In addition, the cable can be connected to a connector on one end or on both ends of the cable.

Various embodiments described herein generally provide a remote release mechanism such that a user can remove cable assembly connectors that are closely spaced together on a high-density panel without damaging surrounding connectors, accidentally disconnecting surrounding connectors, disrupting transmissions through surrounding connectors, and/or the like. Various embodiments also provide narrow pitch LC duplex connectors and narrow width multi-fiber connectors, for use, for example, with future narrow pitch LC SFPs and future narrow width SFPs. The remote release mechanisms allow use of the narrow pitch LC duplex connectors and narrow width multi-fiber connectors in dense arrays of narrow pitch LC SFPs and narrow width multi-fiber SFPs.

<FIG> shows a perspective view of a prior art standard <NUM> pitch LC connector SFP <NUM>. The SFP <NUM> is configured to receive a duplex connector and provides two receptacles <NUM>, each for receiving a respective LC connector. The pitch <NUM> is defined as the axis-to-axis distance between the central longitudinal axes of each of the two receptacles <NUM>. <FIG> shows a perspective view of a prior art standard <NUM> pitch LC adapter <NUM>. The adapter <NUM> is also configured to receive a duplex connector, and provides two receptacles <NUM>, each for receiving a respective LC connector. <FIG> is a top view of the adapter <NUM> of <FIG>. The pitch of the adapter <NUM> is defined similarly to that of the SFP <NUM>, as the axis-to-axis distance between the central longitudinal axes of each of the two receptacles <NUM>, as illustrated in <FIG>, which shows a front view of the adapter <NUM>.

<FIG> shows a prior art LC duplex connector <NUM> that may be used with the conventional SFP <NUM> and the conventional adapter <NUM>. The LC duplex connector <NUM> includes two conventional LC connectors <NUM>. <FIG> shows another prior art LC duplex connector <NUM> having a remote release pull tab <NUM>, and including two conventional LC connectors <NUM>. As shown, the remote release pull tab includes two prongs <NUM>, each configured to couple to the extending member <NUM> of a respective LC connector <NUM>. <FIG> show top and side views, respectively, of the conventional LC connector <NUM>, having a width of <NUM>, and further showing the extending member <NUM>.

Various embodiments disclosed herein are configured for use with a future SFP, such as the narrow pitch LC SFP <NUM> shown in <FIG>, having a pitch less than that of conventional <NUM> and <NUM> pitches. Various embodiments utilize LC type fiber optic connectors in duplex arrangements (having transmitting and receiving fibers) but with a connector axis-to-axis distance that is less than the conventional <NUM> and <NUM> pitches, as described further below.

According to another aspect, embodiments of narrow pitch duplex LC adapters are disclosed. <FIG> show one embodiment of a narrow pitch adapter <NUM>. The narrow pitch adapter <NUM> has receptacles <NUM> on opposite ends thereof, configured for mating two narrow pitch LC duplex connectors according to aspects disclosed herein. <FIG> shows a top view of the adapter <NUM>. <FIG> shows a front view, further illustrating that the adapter <NUM> has a pitch of <NUM>. The adapter <NUM> is configured to receive a duplex LC connector, with a pitch of the adapter corresponding to the axis-to-axis distance between the LC connectors of the LC duplex connector. Although the adapter <NUM> has a pitch of <NUM>, various embodiments of narrow pitch adapters disclosed herein may have a different pitch that is less than that of the pitch of conventional adapters, for example less than <NUM> and less than about <NUM>. In some embodiments, the pitch may be about <NUM> or less.

In addition to the need for narrow connectors, there is a need for remote unlatching of the narrow connectors used in dense narrow SFP arrays. This is because finger access to connectors is nearly impossible without disruption to the service of adjacent optical fibers. Although there are current designs of remotely unlatching fiber optic connectors, as shown for example in <FIG>, they have proven to be difficult to function as desired when plugged into the die cast construction that is typical of all SFP's. The die cast SFP is not one that is ever free of sharp edges and internal flashing (burrs) that can interfere with the normal flexing motion of the plastic latches of the fiber optic connectors. The interference between metal edges and burrs may prevent the fiber optic connector's plastic latch from either becoming fully engaged or easily disengaged, especially with latches that are remotely triggered by pull tabs that project a distance behind the connector so as to keep fingers from disturbing adjacent optical fibers.

To make the latching/unlatching of the connectors from the SFP more reliable, various embodiments disclosed herein add a spring force to the remote latching component (pull tab), for example as shown and described in relation to <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG> below, to ensure that the connector latches are allowed to return to the undisplaced position and thereby become fully engaged inside the SFP's recess.

<FIG> shows one embodiment of a narrow pitch connector <NUM> according to aspects disclosed herein. The narrow pitch connector <NUM> is a duplex LC connector including two LC connectors <NUM>. Each of the LC connectors <NUM> includes a respective ferrule <NUM> and a respective extending member or latching arm <NUM>. The connector <NUM> has a pitch of <NUM>, defined as the axis-to-axis distance between the central axes of the LC connectors <NUM>. In other embodiments, the connector pitch may be less than that of the pitch of conventional connectors, for example less than <NUM> and less than about <NUM>. In some embodiments, the pitch may be about <NUM> or less.

The connector <NUM> further includes a housing <NUM> having a bottom housing <NUM> and a top housing <NUM>. The bottom housing <NUM> includes side walls <NUM>. In various embodiments, the housing <NUM> of the connector <NUM> may be a switchable housing. The side walls <NUM> may be configured to open so as to facilitate opening of the housing <NUM>, for example, to change polarity of the connector <NUM>. The side walls <NUM> may be raised towards the rear of the connector <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. One advantage of raising the side walls <NUM> towards the rear of the connector <NUM> is easier access. In other embodiments, the side walls <NUM> may be raised at another location.

The connector <NUM> further includes a pull tab <NUM> having a distal end <NUM> and a proximal end <NUM>. The pull tab <NUM> further includes a spring <NUM> configured to provide a force such that the connector latching arms <NUM> return to the undisplaced position and thereby become fully engaged inside the SFP's recess. The distal end <NUM> of the pull tab <NUM> may be pulled to remotely release the connector <NUM> from an SFP or adapter. The proximal end <NUM> of the pull tab <NUM> is uniquely shaped so as to engage with the unique profile of the latching arms <NUM> of the narrow pitch LC connector <NUM>. The proximal end <NUM> engages both latching arms <NUM> of the duplex LC connector <NUM>. That is, the proximal end <NUM> includes a single prong configured to engage the latching arms of both connectors <NUM>. At the proximal end <NUM> of the pull tab <NUM> there are outwardly pointing pins <NUM> configured to rest directly above and slide along the semi-circular surface of latching arms <NUM> of the duplex LC connectors <NUM>. The horizontal and rearward path direction of the pins <NUM> causes the semi-circular profile of the connector latching arms <NUM> to flex downward. Because the pins <NUM> are not contained inside ramped grooves of the connector latching arms <NUM>, the pull tab <NUM> can also be pushed down at a location directly behind the LC connectors <NUM> rather than pulling the tab in a rearward motion from a remote distance behind the connectors, such as from the distal end <NUM>. The action of pushing down the connectors' integral levers or latching arms <NUM> unlatches the connector <NUM>. In some cases, the horizontal motion of the pull tab <NUM> may not be desirable. Thus, the connector latching arms <NUM> may be pushed down without resulting in a horizontal motion of the pull tab <NUM>.

<FIG> show top and side views, respectively, of the LC connector <NUM> of the narrow pitch connector <NUM>. <FIG> further shows that the LC connector <NUM> has a width of <NUM>. <FIG> shows the semi-circular profile of the latching arm <NUM>.

<FIG> shows a partially disassembled view of the narrow pitch connector <NUM> of <FIG>. The top housing <NUM> is separated from the bottom housing <NUM>. The pull tab <NUM> is coupled to the top housing <NUM> and configured to slide longitudinally along the length of the connector. The top housing <NUM> also includes a restraint <NUM> configured to receive the pull tab <NUM>.

<FIG> shows a further disassembled view of the narrow pitch connector <NUM>. Specifically, the pull tab <NUM> is shown to be separated from the top housing <NUM>, and the spring <NUM> is removed from the pull tab. The pull tab <NUM> includes a longitudinal recess <NUM> configured to receive the spring <NUM>, and at least one restraint <NUM> configured to retain the spring. The top housing <NUM> also includes a recess <NUM> configured to accommodate at least a portion of the pull tab <NUM>, such as the spring <NUM> and the proximal end <NUM>. In various embodiments, the pull tab may be removably coupled to the connector via the top housing.

<FIG> shows a perspective view of a prior art standard MPO SFP <NUM>. The SFP <NUM> is configured to receive a standard MPO connector and provides a receptacle <NUM> for receiving an MPO connector having a conventional width, as shown for example in <FIG>.

<FIG> shows a perspective view of a conventional MPO connector <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the conventional MPO connector <NUM> has a width of <NUM>. <FIG> shows a front view of the MPO connector <NUM>.

<FIG> shows an embodiment of a future narrow width multi-fiber SFP <NUM> according to aspects of the present disclosure. Various embodiments disclosed herein are configured for use with the narrow width multi-fiber SFP <NUM>, having a width less than that of conventional MPO connectors, that is less than about <NUM>. The narrow width multi-fiber SFP has a receptacle <NUM> configured to receive a narrow width multi-fiber connector, such as a narrow width connector having an MT ferrule.

<FIG> shows one embodiment of a narrow width connector <NUM> according to aspects disclosed herein. The narrow width connector <NUM> is a multi-fiber connector including a multi-fiber MT/MPO ferrule <NUM>. The connector <NUM> includes two extending members or latching arms <NUM>. In other embodiments, the connector may include at least one latching arm. The connector <NUM> has a width of <NUM>, as shown in the top view of the connector <NUM> in <FIG>. In other embodiments, the connector width may be less than that of the width of conventional multi-fiber connectors, for example less than the <NUM> of the conventional MPO connector shown in FOG. In some embodiments, the width may be about <NUM> or less.

The connector <NUM> further includes a housing <NUM> having a bottom housing <NUM> and a top housing <NUM>. The bottom housing <NUM> includes side walls <NUM>. In various embodiments, the housing <NUM> of the connector <NUM> may be a switchable housing. The side walls <NUM> may be configured to open so as to facilitate opening of the housing <NUM>, for example, to change polarity of the connector <NUM>. The side walls <NUM> may be raised towards the rear of the connector <NUM>. One advantage of raising the side walls <NUM> towards the rear of the connector <NUM> is easier access. The side walls <NUM> may also be raised at another location.

The connector <NUM> further includes a pull tab <NUM> having a distal end <NUM> and a proximal end <NUM>. The pull tab <NUM> further includes a spring <NUM> configured to provide a force such that the connector latching arms <NUM> return to the undisplaced position and thereby become fully engaged inside the SFP's recess. The distal end <NUM> of the pull tab <NUM> may be pulled to remotely release the connector <NUM> from an SFP or adapter. The proximal end <NUM> of the pull tab <NUM> is uniquely shaped so as to engage with the unique profile of the latching arms <NUM> of the narrow width multi-fiber connector <NUM>. The proximal end <NUM> engages both latching arms <NUM> of the multi-fiber connector <NUM>. That is, the proximal end <NUM> includes a single prong configured to engage the latching arms <NUM>. At the proximal end <NUM> of the pull tab <NUM> there are outwardly pointing pins <NUM> configured to rest directly above and slide along the semi-circular surface of latching arms <NUM>. The horizontal and rearward path direction of the pins <NUM> causes the semi-circular profile of the connector latching arms <NUM> to flex downward. Because the pins <NUM> are not contained inside ramped grooves of the connector latching arms <NUM>, the pull tab <NUM> can also be pushed down at a location directly behind the latching arms <NUM> rather than pulling the tab in a rearward motion from a remote distance behind the connector, such as from the distal end <NUM>. The action of pushing down the connector's integral levers or latching arms <NUM> unlatches the connector <NUM>. In some cases, the horizontal motion of the pull tab <NUM> may not be desirable. Thus, the connector latching arms <NUM> may be pushed down without resulting in a horizontal motion of the pull tab <NUM>.

<FIG> show top and front views, respectively, of the narrow width multi-fiber connector <NUM>. <FIG> further shows that the connector <NUM> has a width of <NUM>.

In various embodiments described above, the narrow width connectors have latching arms configured to engage with a fixed or immovable recess within a narrow width SFP or a narrow width adapter. In these embodiments, the pull tab of the connector displaces the flexible latching arm of the connector so as to disengage the latching arm from the recess of the SFP or the adapter. For example, the latching arms bend down as the pull tab is pulled back, so as to disengage the connector from the SFP or the adapter.

In other embodiments, as further described for example in relation with <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG> below, the remote latch release pull tab may be configured to couple with a latch or a hook within the adapter or the SFP. In these embodiments, the flexible latching arm of the connector is moved into the main cavity of the SFP or the adapter, and the latch of the SFP or the adapter engages a recess of the connector when the pull tab is in a normal location that is pushed forward by a spring. The pull tab may be configured to have a ramp area such that when the pull tab is pulled back, the latch of the SFP or the adapter is lifted by the retracted pull tab, thereby disengaging the latch of the SFP or the adapter from the connector.

<FIG> shows a narrow pitch multi-fiber connector <NUM> inserted into a narrow pitch SFP <NUM> such that a recess of the connector engages an SFP latch. <FIG> shows the narrow pitch connector <NUM> inserted into a narrow pitch adapter <NUM> such that a recess of the connector engages a latch of the adapter.

<FIG> shows a side view of the narrow width connector <NUM> of <FIG> coupled to the narrow width SFP <NUM>. Details of the coupling are shown within the circle <NUM>. Specifically, the SFP <NUM> includes an SFP latch <NUM>. The connector <NUM> includes a recess <NUM>. For example, the connector housing may comprise a recess <NUM>. The pull tab <NUM> may be spring-loaded as described in relation to various embodiments. This allows the pull tab <NUM> to return to a position that will allow the SFP latch <NUM> to engage with the connector recess <NUM>. When the pull tab <NUM> is in the normal pull tab location, that is pushed forward by a spring, as shown in <FIG>, the SFP latch <NUM> is engaged with the connector recess <NUM>.

<FIG> shows a side view of the narrow width connector <NUM> of <FIG> as it is disengaged from the narrow width SFP <NUM>. Details of the decoupling are shown within the circle <NUM>. The pull tab <NUM> includes a taper or a ramp area <NUM>. As the pull tab <NUM> is pulled back in the direction of the arrow <NUM> as shown, the SFP latch <NUM> is lifted by the ramp area <NUM> of the retracted pull tab, thereby disengaging the SFP latch <NUM> from the connector as illustrated within the circle <NUM>. The same effect described herein in conjunction with <FIG> also occurs in other embodiments of connectors coupled to a narrow width adapter as shown, for example, in <FIG>.

Although <FIG> and <FIG> illustrate coupling of the connector to a narrow width SFP, in other embodiments the connector may be coupled to a narrow width adapter having an adapter latch, similar to that of the SFP latch. Further, although the embodiments shown in <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG> include a narrow width multi-fiber connector, other embodiments may include narrow pitch LC connectors.

<FIG> are various views and details that show a narrow pitch multi-fiber connector, a SFP and the latching mechanisms associated therewith according to various aspects of the invention.

As discussed herein, various types of connectors exist with various methods of implementation. Referring now to <FIG>, an embodiment of a CS connector is shown exploded for detail. It should be noted that this visual example is for explanatory purposes, and that various alternative examples may exist, some of which are discussed herein. In some embodiments, a CS connector may be a miniature single-position plug generally characterized by dual cylindrical, spring-loaded butting ferrule(s) of approximately <NUM> in diameter, and a push-pull coupling mechanism. In some embodiments, the optical alignment mechanism of the connectors is of a rigid hole or a resilient sleeve style.

In some embodiments, the CS connector comprises a front body (i.e., plug frame) <NUM>, which houses the ferrule(s) and ferrules flange(s) <NUM>. A rear body (i.e., back post) <NUM> connects to the rear of the front body <NUM> and contains the ferrule-flange(s) <NUM>. The ferrule-flange(s) <NUM> may be held in place using one or more springs <NUM>. The rear body <NUM>, as shown, may include a crimp ring <NUM> attached to the rear of the rear body. In some embodiments, a cable boot <NUM> may surround the crimp ring <NUM>. In some embodiments, and as shown, a dust cap <NUM> may be placed over the front body <NUM> in order to protect the ferrules housed in the front body from damage and/or debris.

In additional embodiments, a push-pull tab <NUM> is attached to the CS connector, as discussed in more detail herein. The push-pull tab <NUM> may have a side portion <NUM> and a center protrusion (i.e., <NUM>), which serve various functions discussed further herein. The push-pull tab <NUM> may utilize a tab spring <NUM> to apply a constant directional force on the push-pull tab to allow for various benefits which are discussed herein. Referring briefly to <FIG>, one embodiment of an assembled CS connector with a push-pull tab is shown. In some embodiments, and as shown, the push-pull tab <NUM> has a front portion <NUM> which resides in a recess <NUM> within the front body <NUM>. Thus, when the push-pull tab <NUM> traverses the connector, as discussed in detail herein, the front portion <NUM> moves independently of the front body <NUM>.

In one or more embodiments, and as shown in <FIG>, a CS connector may have an overall dimensional width of <NUM> millimeters. Additionally, in further embodiments, the CS connector may have a pitch of <NUM>. As discussed herein, the pitch is defined as the axis-to-axis distance between the central axes of the CS connectors <NUM>. Moreover, as shown in <FIG>, an embodiment may have an overall dimensional height of <NUM> when the push-pull tab <NUM> is attached to the front body <NUM> and the rear body <NUM>.

As disclosed herein, a connector (e.g., a CS connector) may have a push-pull tab to allow for easy insertion and extraction from an adapter. Referring now to <FIG>, in some embodiments, the push-pull tab <NUM> may slide forward and rearward in alengthwise manner in relation to the connector as indicated by the dashed double-sided arrow <NUM>. <FIG> shows an embodiment in which the side portion <NUM> of the push-pull tab <NUM> contacts the rear body <NUM>. This contact between the side portion <NUM> and the rear body <NUM> stops the forward movement of the push-pull tab <NUM>.

In a further embodiment, the push-pull tab <NUM> may be moved away from the rear body by a distance <NUM> of about <NUM> to about <NUM>. The push-pull tab <NUM> may have a center protrusion (such as <NUM> in <FIG>) which makes contact with the rear body <NUM>. This contact between the center protrusion <NUM> and the rear body <NUM> may stop the rearward movement of the push-pull tab <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, a CS connector according to some embodiments is shown. As discussed herein, the push-pull tab has a front portion <NUM>. In some embodiments, the front portion <NUM> may comprise a tip <NUM>. The tip <NUM> may comprise a slit or groove (not shown) which may slide over a portion of the front body <NUM> in order to securely fasten the front portion <NUM> to the front body <NUM>. The slit or groove may, in some embodiments, be large enough to accommodate the movement of the push-pull tab as discussed herein. Stated differently, when the push-pull tab is pulled away from the front body (see <FIG> and corresponding description) the push-pull tab may slide along the front body (i.e., <FIG>), thus the slit or groove must be large enough to allow for the movement of the push-pull tab while also ensuring a secure attachment in the non-retracted state (i.e., <FIG>).

As shown in <FIG>, and discussed herein, an embodiment may comprise a spring <NUM> (i.e., <FIG>, <NUM>). The spring <NUM> applies a biasing force to the push-pull tab <NUM> in the forward direction such that the groove of the front body <NUM> and the groove of the push-pull tab <NUM> align as discussed herein, and shown in <FIG>. As shown in <FIG>, the hidden lines show the spring <NUM> within the push-pull tab <NUM>. In additional embodiments, the push-pull tab <NUM> may comprise a wedge portion <NUM>. The wedge portion <NUM> is configured such that it can snap into the front body <NUM> and slide/traverse the recess (see <FIG> at <NUM>) when the push-pull tab is moved along the housing (i.e., front body and rear body).

Referring now to <FIG>/B/C, a CS connector is shown including cross-sections of various embodiments. <FIG> illustrates an example CS connector according to some embodiments with two separate cross-sectional areas identified. The first cross-sectional area (i.e., X-X) is further detailed in <FIG> shows how the wedge portion <NUM> snaps into, or connects, with the front body <NUM>. It should be understood, that this material strength of the wedge portion <NUM> ensures a secure connection to the front body <NUM> while also allowing for the push-pull tab <NUM> to move along the length of the front body <NUM> as discussed in further detail herein. In additional to the wedge portion <NUM>, some embodiments may also have a further securing connection device comprising one or more clips <NUM> which are formed as part of the push-pull tab. In some embodiments, and as shown, the one or more clips <NUM> connect to and snap into the front body <NUM> and positioned adjacent to the rear body <NUM> which is inserted into the front body. It should be understood that these are non-limiting examples, and that various connection means may be used to secure the push-pull tab <NUM> to the housing. Specifically, the wedge portion <NUM> and the one or more clips <NUM> may be located at various other locations on the push-pull tab <NUM>, as well as different location on the front body <NUM> and the rear body <NUM>.

The connectors (e.g., CS connectors) disclosed herein may be inserted into an adapter (e.g., a fiber optic port), such as for example in a fiber array or server. A non-limiting illustrative example of a typical adapter is shown in <FIG> illustrates a dual adapter for accepting two connectors (e.g., a dual ferrule CS connector). It should be understood, that the various dimensions provided herein are only for illustrative purposes, and that various other dimensions may be possible in various implementations. <FIG> and <FIG> show specific cross-sectional cuts of the adapter shown in <FIG>. The various dimensions of <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG> are listed below in Table <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>, and discussed herein, the receiver/transceiver may allow for the insertion of an anchor device.

It should be understood, that various portions of a connector system (e.g., CS connector system) may have adjustments made to accommodate various situations. One non-limiting example of these variations is shown in <FIG>, which shows the push-pull tab <NUM> being constructed with varying lengths.

The embodiments shown in <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG> illustrate an adapter capable of receiving various modifications. For example, and referring to <FIG>, in some embodiments, a removable adaptor modification (e.g., the hook system of <FIG>) may be inserted into the adaptor shown in <FIG>. The removable modification device, such as that shown in <FIG>, may comprise a hook tip <NUM> and a hook ramp <NUM>, or a plurality of either (e.g., as shown, the modification device comprises two hook tips).

It should be understood, that the removable modification device (i.e., interchangeable anchor device) may vary in style and design. <FIG> provide an illustrative non-limiting example of a potential design for the interchangeable anchor device. As discussed herein, in some embodiments, a removable adaptor modification (e.g., the hook system of <FIG>) may be inserted into the adaptor shown in <FIG>. The removable modification device, such as that shown in <FIG>, may comprise a hook tip <NUM> and a hook ramp <NUM>, or a plurality of either (e.g., as shown, the modification device comprises two hook tips).

In a further embodiment, and as shown in <FIG>, a removable adaptor modification (e.g., the hook system of <FIG>) may be inserted into the adaptor shown in <FIG>. The removable modification device, such as that shown in <FIG> ,may comprise a hook tip <NUM> and a hook ramp <NUM>, or a plurality of either (e.g., as shown, the modification device comprises two hook tips).

<FIG> illustrates a dual adapter for accepting two connectors (e.g., a dual ferrule CS connector) similar to that shown in <FIG>, however, <FIG> includes two removable modification devices <NUM>. It should be understood, that the various dimensions provided herein are only for illustrative purposes, and that various other dimensions may be possible in various implementations. <FIG> show specific cross-sectional cuts of the adapter shown in <FIG>, and thus, the identified dimensions of <FIG>, <FIG> are also listed in Table <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, illustrative examples of a CS connector being inserted into an adapter are shown. As discussed herein, the adapter shown in the illustrative embodiment comprises the modification device which engages with portions of the CS connector as discussed below in detail. <FIG> shows a CS connector being inserted into an adapter. The modification device <NUM> impacts and interacts with the CS connector as the connector is inserted into the adapter housing. In some embodiments, as the CS connector is inserted, the front of the CS connector contacts hook ramp (FIG. 35C at <NUM>, <FIG> at <NUM>, and <FIG> at <NUM>) which lifts the portion of the modification device that is interacting with the CS connector.

Still referring to <FIG>, the movement of the modification device is shown in zoomed-in detail views <NUM> and <NUM>. As shown, the hidden (e.g., dashed) line represents the profile hook ramp <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>, and the solid lines represent the profile of the hook tips <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>. The hooks <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> rise above the surface of the connector allowing for insertion of the connector into the adapter. Once the connector reaches the predetermined destination within the adapter (e.g., when a secure fiber connection is made), the hook tips <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> interlock with a recess <NUM> on the connector. This interlocking action secures the connector within the adapter housing by tab during push-in action.

Referring now to <FIG>, it is important to note that the front portion <NUM> of the push-pull tab <NUM> moves independently of the front body <NUM>, as discussed herein. Accordingly, the front portion <NUM> of the push-pull tab <NUM>, which is shown in detail, may align with the recesses <NUM> of the front body <NUM>. In this configuration, the hook tips <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> are able to securely fasten the connector to the adapter. However, depending on the embodiment, the push-pull tab <NUM> may be moved in the forward or rearward direction (see <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>) thus taking the recesses <NUM> out of alignment with the push pull tab recess. When the front portion <NUM> of the push-pull tab <NUM> is moved out of alignment, it interacts with the hook ramp <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> via the ramp <NUM>. Accordingly, in some embodiments, moving the push-pull tab <NUM> independently of the front body <NUM> may allow the ramp area <NUM> to apply a force to the hook ramp <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>, thereby raising the hook tips <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>. Once the hook tips <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> are raised, the connector can be safely removed from the adapter and/or transceiver.

<FIG> show further detail and cross-sectional illustrations of a connector interacting with an adapter and/or transceiver. Additionally, <FIG> and <FIG> show further detail and possible dimensions of an embodiment, see Table <NUM>.

The use of a CS connector allows for a compact fiber implementation, as well as improved flexibility. For example, in some existing systems, as shown in <FIG>, a <NUM> transceiver module <NUM> may receive an MPO connector <NUM>. The MPO connecter may then be split out using an additional tool, such as a fan out <NUM> or a cassette <NUM>. Once the cable is split out, it can be connected to a <NUM> module device (e.g., a LC uniboot as shown) <NUM>. The <NUM> module device <NUM> may then be inserted into a <NUM> transceiver <NUM>.

Alternatively, in some embodiments, and as shown in <FIG>, a plurality of CS connectors <NUM> are inserted into a <NUM> transceiver module <NUM>. Each CS connector <NUM> mayu then independently connect to the <NUM> as shown in <FIG>, a <NUM> transceiver module <NUM> may receive an MPO connector <NUM>. The MPO connecter may then be split out using an additional tool, such as a fan out <NUM> or a cassette <NUM>. Once the cable is split out, it can be connected to a <NUM> module device (e.g., a LC uniboot as shown) <NUM>. The <NUM> module device <NUM> may then be inserted into a <NUM> transceiver module <NUM>.

A specific example using multi-strand cables is shown in <FIG> for explanatory purposes only, and it should be understood that near endless alternatives and modifications are possible. As shown, a switch (e.g., <NUM> switch) <NUM> is shown with a transceiver (e.g., <NUM> transceiver) <NUM>. The transceiver <NUM> has an adapter to receive two mini CS duplex connectors <NUM>. From each of the two duplex connectors <NUM>, a four fiber cable <NUM> extends to connect to various other connectors and transceivers. As shown, one four fiber cable <NUM> is split in to two fiber cables <NUM>, which are then attached to a single CS simplex connector <NUM> and placed into a transceiver (e.g., <NUM> transceiver) <NUM>. As further shown, one of the four fiber cables <NUM> is connected to a single mini CS duplex connector <NUM>, which is then inserted into another transceiver (e.g., <NUM> transceiver) <NUM>.

In the above detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof. In the drawings, similar symbols typically identify similar components, unless context dictates otherwise. The illustrative embodiments described in the detailed description, drawings, and claims are not meant to be limiting. Other embodiments may be used, and other changes may be made, without departing from the scope of the subject matter presented herein. It will be readily understood that the aspects of the present disclosure, as generally described herein, and illustrated in the Figures, can be arranged, substituted, combined, separated, and designed in a wide variety of different configurations, all of which are explicitly contemplated herein.

The present disclosure is not to be limited in terms of the particular embodiments described in this application, which are intended as illustrations of various aspects. Many modifications and variations can be made without departing from its scope, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Functionally equivalent methods and apparatuses within the scope of the disclosure, in addition to those enumerated herein, will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the foregoing descriptions. Such modifications and variations are intended to fall within the scope of the appended claims. The present disclosure is to be limited only by the terms of the appended claims. It is to be understood that this disclosure is not limited to particular methods, reagents, compounds, compositions, or biological systems, which can, of course, vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only, and is not intended to be limiting.

It will be understood by those within the art that, in general, terms used herein, and especially in the appended claims (for example, bodies of the appended claims) are generally intended as "open" terms (for example, the term "including" should be interpreted as "including but not limited to," the term "having" should be interpreted as "having at least," the term "includes" should be interpreted as "includes but is not limited to," et cetera). While various compositions, methods, and devices are described in terms of "comprising" various components or steps (interpreted as meaning "including, but not limited to"), the compositions, methods, and devices can also "consist essentially of" or "consist of" the various components and steps, and such terminology should be interpreted as defining essentially closed-member groups. It will be further understood by those within the art that if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such an intent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence of such recitation no such intent is present. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed to imply that the introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinite articles "a" or "an" limits any particular claim containing such introduced claim recitation to embodiments containing only one such recitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases "one or more" or "at least one" and indefinite articles such as "a" or "an" (for example, "a" and/or "an" should be interpreted to mean "at least one" or "one or more"); the same holds true for the use of definite articles used to introduce claim recitations. In addition, even if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly recited, those skilled in the art will recognize that such recitation should be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (for example, the bare recitation of "two recitations," without other modifiers, means at least two recitations, or two or more recitations). Furthermore, in those instances where a convention analogous to "at least one of A, B, and C, et cetera" is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (for example, " a system having at least one of A, B, and C" would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, et cetera). In those instances where a convention analogous to "at least one of A, B, or C, et cetera" is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (for example, " a system having at least one of A, B, or C" would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, et cetera). It will be further understood by those within the art that virtually any disjunctive word and/or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the description, claims, or drawings, should be understood to contemplate the possibilities of including one of the terms, either of the terms, or both terms.

As will be understood by one skilled in the art, for any and all purposes, such as in terms of providing a written description, all ranges disclosed herein also encompass any and all possible subranges and combinations of subranges thereof. Any listed range can be easily recognized as sufficiently describing and enabling the same range being broken down into at least equal halves, thirds, quarters, fifths, tenths, et cetera As a non-limiting example, each range discussed herein can be readily broken down into a lower third, middle third and upper third, et cetera As will also be understood by one skilled in the art all language such as "up to," "at least," and the like include the number recited and refer to ranges which can be subsequently broken down into subranges as discussed above. Finally, as will be understood by one skilled in the art, a range includes each individual member. Thus, for example, a group having <NUM>-<NUM> cells refers to groups having <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM> cells. Similarly, a group having <NUM>-<NUM> cells refers to groups having <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM> cells, and so forth.

Claim 1:
Connector comprising:
a front body (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) comprising:
a top and a bottom,
a recess (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) running lengthwise on the top of the front body (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>),
a groove running widthwise on the top of the front body (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>);
two fiber optic ferrules (<NUM>) housed in the front body (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>); and
a rear body (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) connected to the front body (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) forming a housing,; and
a push-pull tab (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) comprising a front portion (<NUM>, <NUM>), a rear portion, and one or more side portions (<NUM>);
wherein the push-pull tab (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) is detachably connected to the housing using the one or more side portions (<NUM>) and comprises a complementary groove running widthwise on the front portion (<NUM>), the groove and the complementary groove being aligned, the push-pull tab (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) being movable along the length of the housing, wherein the groove and the complementary groove are out of alignment when the push-pull tab (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) is moved along the length of the housing,
wherein the push-pull tab front portion (<NUM>, <NUM>) sits in the recess (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>).