Patent Description:
The present disclosure relates generally to multiport assemblies having one or more connector ports for interconnecting optical fibers using external fiber optic connectors that are received in respective connector ports. More particularly, the present disclosure is directed to multiport assemblies having mounting features for securing the assemblies to a pole, building, or other suitable structure and/or dust plugs for inhibiting dirt, dust or debris from entering the connector port when not in use.

Optical fibers are used in an increasing number and variety of applications, such as a wide variety of telecommunications and data transmission applications. As a result, fiber optic networks include an ever increasing number of terminated optical fibers and fiber optic cables that can be conveniently and reliable mated with corresponding optical receptacles or optical port in the network using fiber optic connectors. These optical fibers and fiber optic cables terminated with optical fiber connectors are available in a variety of connectorized formats including, for example, hardened OptiTap® and OptiTip® connectors, field-installable UniCam® connectors, preconnectorized single or multi-fiber cable assemblies with SC, FC, or LC connectors, etc., all of which are available from Corning Incorporated, with similar products available from other manufacturers, as is well documented in the patent literature.

The optical receptacles, optical ports or the like with which the aforementioned terminated fibers and cables are coupled are commonly provided at optical network units (ONUs), network interface devices (NIDs), multiports, closures, terminals and other types of network devices or enclosures, and often require mounting hardware that is sufficiently robust to be employed in a variety of environments under a variety of installation conditions. These diverse environments or conditions for mounting the devices may be subject to the outside plant environment, rough handling, and/or the habits of the technicians handling and installing the hardware. Consequently, there is a continuing need to enhance the robustness of these connectorized assemblies, while preserving quick, reliable, and trouble-free installation of devices into the network.

<CIT> discloses an optical jack for plug-jack optical connector. Housings are rectangular along with the ports/connectors. A back panel housing for supporting optical elements is fixed to a back panel. A package housing for supporting optical elements is movably mounted on the back panel housing and provided with two floating structures so as to be slidable up and down relative to the package board. The package housing is supported by the package board via the floating structure composed of an axle member extending from a support surface of the housing and a slot member and a nut member fixed to an end of the axle member.

<CIT> discloses a tether assembly having round-shaped plugs of the individual connector ports covered with protective dust caps. The dust caps are round with internal threads that can cover over a portion of the plug for engaging the external threads on the plugs. In order for the internal threads to engage with the external threads the coupling nut on the plug must rotate relative to the dust cap to secure the dust cap to the plug and relative motion is required between the threads to secure the dust cap.

<CIT> discloses a mounting clip for receiving a fiber optic cable subassembly. The mounting clip a body with a rear anchor formed on the underside and a u-shaped stop at the underside at the front end. The u-shape stop is adapted to be introduced in a recess of a mounting plate for fastening the subassembly.

The present invention provides a multiport assembly according to claim <NUM>.

Although the concepts of the present disclosure are described herein with reference to a set of drawings that show a particular type of fiber optic cable, and connector components of particular size and shape, it is contemplated that the concepts may be employed in any optical fiber connectorization scheme including, for example, and without limitation, hardened OptiTap® and OptiTip® connectors, field-installable UniCam® connectors, single or multi-fiber cable assemblies with SC, FC, LC, or multi-fiber connectors, etc..

Embodiments described herein generally relate to various devices for forming an optical connection between optical fibers. More particularly, embodiments described herein relate to multiport assemblies including a plurality of optical adapter assemblies structurally configured to optically couple optical connectors. Optical connectors may be selectively inserted within the multiport assembly to engage the plurality of optical adapter assemblies, and may be selectively retained within the multiport assembly by push-button securing members. The push-button securing members may also selectively release the optical connectors such that the optical connectors may be disengaged from the optical adapters.

Embodiments described herein securing members for securing a multiport assembly to a surface, such as a wall, a utility pole, or the like. Multiport assemblies may be secured to a surface of an object, and in some instances, the surface may not necessarily correspond to the exact shape and contour of the multiport assembly. As the multiport assembly is secured to a surface including a different surface contour than the shell of the multiport assembly, the shell may deform. For example, when a fastener or the like is used to secure the multiport assembly to the surface, the fastener may apply a force to the multiport assembly in a direction that is transverse to the surface, pulling the multiport assembly toward the surface. The force applied to the multiport assembly may in some instances, be sufficient to deform the shell of the multiport assembly, thereby degrading the structural integrity of the multiport assembly, which may lead a variety of issues, including allowing moisture or other environmental effects to reach a cavity of the multiport assembly.

Embodiments described herein are directed to multiport assemblies including mounting members with standoff features that limit the surface area of the multiport assembly in contact with surface to which the multiport assembly is secured. The standoffs act to space the shell of the multiport assembly apart from the surface, which assists in limiting deformation of the shell as the shell is secured to the surface, thereby assisting in maintaining the structural integrity of the multiport assembly. These and other embodiments will now be described with specific reference to the appended drawings.

As used herein, the term "longitudinal direction" refers to the forward-rearward direction of components of the multiport assembly (i.e., in the +/- Z-direction as depicted). The term "lateral direction" refers to the cross-direction of components of the multiport assembly (i.e., in the +/- X-direction as depicted), and is transverse to the longitudinal direction. The term "vertical direction" refers to the upward-downward direction of the components of the multiport assembly (i.e., in the +/- Y-direction as depicted), and is transverse to the lateral and the longitudinal directions.

Referring initially to <FIG>, a perspective view of a multiport assembly <NUM> is schematically depicted. The multiport assembly <NUM> generally includes a shell <NUM> that extends between a front end <NUM> and a rear end <NUM> in the longitudinal direction and defines a plurality of optical connector ports <NUM> positioned at the front end <NUM> of the multiport assembly <NUM>. A plurality of optical connectors may be inserted within the plurality of optical connector ports <NUM> as described in greater detail herein. In some embodiments, the shell <NUM> defines an input connector port <NUM> positioned at the front end <NUM> of the multiport assembly <NUM>. An input connector, such as an input tether may be inserted within the input connector port <NUM>, as described in greater detail herein.

Referring to <FIG>, a perspective view of the multiport assembly <NUM> is depicted with a plurality of optical connectors <NUM> inserted within corresponding optical connector ports <NUM> of the multiport assembly <NUM>. In the embodiment depicted in <FIG>, an input tether <NUM> is inserted within the input connector port <NUM>. While in the embodiment depicted in <FIG>, the input connector port <NUM> is positioned at the front end <NUM> of the multiport assembly <NUM>, it should be understood that the input connector port <NUM> may be positioned at any suitable location on the multiport assembly <NUM>.

Multiport assembly <NUM> comprises at least one securing member 190A such as depicted in <FIG> and <FIG> associated with the connector ports <NUM>,<NUM>; however other structures may be used for securing the optical connectors <NUM> to the multiport assembly <NUM>. The respective securing member 190A cooperate with the housing of the respective optical connectors <NUM> for securing the optical connectors <NUM> in the port when fully-seated. For instance, a locking feature <NUM> on the respective securing member 190A may cooperate with a cooperating locking feature integrally-formed in the housing of the optical connector <NUM>. When a respective push-button securing members <NUM> associated with each of the optical connector ports <NUM> and the input connector port <NUM> is pushed downward, then the respective optical connector <NUM> may be released from the respective connector port <NUM>,<NUM>. As discussed in further detail below, the securing elements 190A are generally aligned with a respective adapter that may receive an internal connector (i.e., rear connector) for aligning and making an optical connection with the external optical connector <NUM>.

The securing elements 190A disclosed herein may take any suitable construction or configuration as desired such as being formed as a single component of a plurality of components. For instance, the push-button securing member <NUM> may be integrally-formed with the securing element 190A a monolithic structure if desired. Securing element 190A may be biased by a resilient member 190RM to a normally closed or secured position. Upon insertion of the optical connector <NUM> into connector port <NUM>,<NUM>, the connector translates the respective securing element 190A against the resilient member 190RM until the optical connector <NUM> is fully-inserted into the connector port and allows the securing element 190A to translate from the force applied by the resilient member 190RM to the closed or secured position for retaining the optical connector <NUM> in the respective connector port <NUM>,<NUM>.

Furthermore, the securing element 190A or portions of the securing elements may be constructed as a portion of a modular optical adapter assembly 130SA as depicted in <FIG> and <FIG> for easy assembly. The use of modular optical adapter assemblies 130SA allows for the mating components for each connector port <NUM>,<NUM> to move or "float" independently of other mating components relative to the shell <NUM> relative to other connector ports for preserving optical performance. "Float" means that the adapter can have slight movement in the X-Y plane for alignment, and may be inhibited from over-traveling in the Z-direction along the axis of optical connector insertion so that suitable alignment is made between mating connectors, which may include a biasing spring 136RM for allowing some displacement of the adapter with a suitable restoring force provided by the spring. Of course, other constructions are possible for use with the multiport assemblies having mounting features and/or dust plugs disclosed herein, such as having common parts for mounting a plurality of adapters and/or integrally-molding portions in the lower shell such as saddles, mounts or other structures for adapters.

Referring to <FIG>, the input tether <NUM> is depicted in isolation. The input tether <NUM> may generally include a plurality of optical fibers <NUM> therein, which may be terminated within the multiport assembly <NUM>, for example at corresponding optical adapter assemblies, as described in greater detail herein. In some embodiments, the input tether <NUM> may include a furcation body that generally includes a portion of the input tether <NUM> that transitions to the individual fibers <NUM> for routing within a cavity of the shell <NUM> to facilitate connection to corresponding optical adapter assemblies. In some embodiments, input tether <NUM> may terminate with a fiber optic connector or be a stubbed cable as desired. For instance, the input tether <NUM> could be an OptiTip® connector for optical connection to previously installed distribution cables; however, other suitable single-fiber or multi-fiber connectors such as an OptiTap® may be used for terminating the input tether <NUM> as desired. While the embodiment depicted in <FIG> depicts an input tether <NUM> including a plurality of optical fibers <NUM>, it should be understood that in other embodiments, the input tether <NUM> may include a single optical fiber, as described in greater detail herein.

Referring to <FIG>, an exploded perspective view of the multiport assembly <NUM> is depicted. The shell <NUM> generally includes an upper shell member <NUM> coupled to a lower shell member <NUM>, the upper shell member <NUM> and the lower shell member <NUM> defining a cavity <NUM> positioned within the shell <NUM>. In embodiments, the upper shell member <NUM> and the lower shell member <NUM> may be formed from any suitable material, such as a polymer, a composite, a resin, or the like, and may be formed through any suitable process, such as and without limitation molding or the like. The shell <NUM> of the multiport assembly <NUM> may optionally be weatherproofed by appropriately sealing the upper shell member <NUM> to the lower shell member <NUM>. The optical connector ports <NUM> and the input connector port <NUM> may also be sealed with the plurality of optical connectors <NUM> and the input tether <NUM>, respectively, using any suitable means such as gaskets, O-rings, adhesive, sealant, welding, overmolding or the like. If the multiport assembly <NUM> is intended for indoor applications, then the weatherproofing may not be required.

In one embodiment, to seal the upper shell member <NUM> and the lower shell member <NUM> together, a heat soluble resin may be utilized. The heat soluble resin can be in the form of a thermoplastic cord containing magnetically active particles. For example, the heat soluble resin can be placed in a groove defined by the upper shell member <NUM> and/or the lower shell member <NUM>, and the upper shell member <NUM> and the lower shell member <NUM> may be pressed toward each other. An induced energy may then be applied to heat the heat soluble material (also referred to herein as a resin) causing the heat soluble material to soften and then re-harden after cooling, thereby making a strong seal at the housing interface. Typically, the strength seal (e.g., the cord of thermoplastic) extends entirely around a perimeter of the upper shell member <NUM> and the lower shell member <NUM>; however, in some applications the cord does not extend entirely around the perimeter. The resin can include magnetically active particles and the induced energy can be a radio frequency (RF) electromagnetic field which induces eddy currents in the magnetically active pieces. The eddy currents flowing in the magnetically active particles heat the magnetically active particles which cause the heat soluble material to soften and bond with the upper shell member <NUM> and the lower shell member <NUM>. The RF field is then turned off, and when the heat soluble material cools off, the heat soluble material hardens, and thus, the upper shell member <NUM> and the lower shell member <NUM> are welded together. One exemplary process employs EMABONDTM, commercially available from the Ashland Specialty Chemical company of Ohio as the heat soluble material with embedded magnetically active particles.

In some embodiments, the multiport assembly <NUM> includes respective push-button securing members <NUM> associated with each of the optical connector ports <NUM> and the input connector port <NUM>; however, the securing members <NUM> may have other constructions such as sliders or rotating buttons that may be actuated for releasing the optical connector <NUM> from the respective connector ports <NUM>,<NUM> if desired. The plurality of push-button securing members <NUM> are structurally configured to engage with respective securing elements 190A so that the input tether <NUM> and/or the plurality of optical connectors <NUM> and retain at least a portion of the input tether <NUM> and/or the plurality of optical connectors <NUM> for optical connection with optical fibers within the cavity <NUM> of the multiport assembly <NUM>. In embodiments, the plurality of push-button securing members <NUM> selectively retain the plurality of optical connectors <NUM> and/or the input tether <NUM> within the respective connector ports <NUM>,<NUM> of the multiport assembly <NUM>. In the embodiment depicted in <FIG>, the input tether <NUM> and the plurality of optical connectors <NUM> are each selectively retained within the respective connector ports <NUM>,<NUM> of the multiport assembly <NUM> using the respective securing elements 190A and may be released using the plurality of push-button securing members <NUM> if desired. In other embodiments, the plurality of optical connectors <NUM> may be selectively retained within the respective connector ports <NUM>,<NUM> of the multiport assembly <NUM>, while the input tether <NUM> is rigidly connected to the multiport assembly <NUM> (i.e., the input tether <NUM> is not generally removable from the multiport assembly <NUM> without disassembling the multiport assembly <NUM>). The input tether <NUM> and/or the optical connectors <NUM> may be secured to the multiport assembly <NUM> in other suitable manners such as, a bayonet connection, adhesive, a collar or crimp, heat shrink or combinations of the same.

The multiport assembly <NUM> further includes a plurality of optical adapter assemblies <NUM> positioned within the cavity <NUM> of the shell <NUM>. The plurality of optical adapter assemblies <NUM> are structurally configured to receive, align, and optically couple optical connectors. In embodiments each of the plurality of optical adapter assemblies <NUM> are aligned with a corresponding optical connector port of the plurality of optical connector ports <NUM> and/or with the input connector port <NUM>. The optical adapter assemblies <NUM> may receive an optical connector <NUM> at the rear portion for optical connection with an external optical connector <NUM> such as shown in <FIG>. Any suitable optical adapter assembly is possible with the concepts disclosed herein such as using a common retainer or common clamshell for securing a plurality of optical adapters. Other variations are possible as well, and <FIG> and <FIG> depict an explanatory optical adapter sub-assembly 130SA.

In some embodiments, one or more optical splitters <NUM> may be positioned within the cavity <NUM> defined by the shell <NUM>, and may split a signal from a single optical fiber <NUM> into a plurality of optical fibers <NUM>. In particular, the optical splitter <NUM> may receive a single optical fiber <NUM>, for example from an input tether <NUM> (<FIG>), and may split a signal from the optical fiber <NUM> into a plurality of optical fibers <NUM> that extend between the optical splitter <NUM> and the plurality of optical adapter assemblies <NUM>. In one example, the optical splitter <NUM> allows a single optical signal to be split into multiple signals such as 1xN split, but other splitter arrangements are possible such as a 2xN split. In the embodiment depicted in <FIG>, a signal from the single optical fiber <NUM> is split by the optical splitter <NUM> to four optical fibers <NUM> extending between the optical splitter <NUM> and four optical adapter assemblies <NUM>. Other embodiments may include two splitter with the first splitter having an asymmetric power split ratio such as a <NUM>/<NUM> power level split with <NUM> percent leg of the split signal feeding downstream and the <NUM> percent split feeding a second splitter such as a 1xN splitter for distributing the optical signals to downstream users in the communication network. Other variations of the power-level splits are also possible. Further, the cavity <NUM> of the multiport assembly <NUM> may have other components disposed therein such as wavelength division multiplexing devices such as CWDM or DWDM devices.

Referring collectively to <FIG> and <FIG>, a lower perspective view and an end view of the shell <NUM> are schematically depicted. In embodiments, the shell <NUM> defines at least one slot <NUM> positioned on a lower surface <NUM> of the shell <NUM> and extending in the longitudinal direction. In the embodiment depicted in <FIG> and <FIG>, the shell <NUM> defines two slots <NUM> that are symmetric to one another about a multiport assembly centerline <NUM> that bisects the multiport assembly <NUM> in the lateral direction. The slots <NUM> each define a bottom face <NUM> positioned above the lower surface <NUM> of the shell <NUM> (i.e., in the +Y-direction). Each of the slots <NUM> further define opposing sidewalls <NUM> that extend downward from the bottom face <NUM> to the lower surface <NUM> (i.e., in the -Y-direction) of the shell <NUM>. In particular, each of the slots <NUM> defines an inward-facing sidewall <NUM> (i.e., facing inward the centerline <NUM> in the lateral direction, and an opposing, outward-facing sidewall <NUM> (i.e., facing outward from the centerline <NUM> in the lateral direction). Each of the slots <NUM> define endfaces <NUM> positioned at the front end of the slots <NUM>. The endfaces <NUM> are generally oriented to face rearward in the longitudinal direction (i.e., in the -Z-direction) and may restrict longitudinal movement of a mounting member positioned in the slots <NUM>, as described in greater detail herein.

Each of the slots <NUM> further define one or more tabs <NUM> that extend over the bottom face <NUM> to define channels <NUM> that extend along the shell <NUM> in the longitudinal direction. The channels <NUM> of each of the slots <NUM> are generally bounded by the bottom face <NUM>, a sidewall <NUM>, and the tabs <NUM>. Each of the slots <NUM> define cutouts <NUM> positioned between the tabs <NUM> in the longitudinal direction. At the cutouts <NUM>, the sidewalls <NUM> may generally extend between the bottom face <NUM> of the slot <NUM> and the lower surface <NUM> of the shell <NUM> in the vertical direction. A mounting member may be selectively inserted into the slots <NUM> via the cutouts <NUM>, as described in greater detail herein. In the embodiment depicted in <FIG> and <FIG>, the slots <NUM> define tabs <NUM> and cutouts <NUM> positioned on the inward-facing sidewalls <NUM>, however, it should be understood the tabs <NUM> and cutouts <NUM> may additionally or alternatively be positioned on the outward-facing sidewalls <NUM>.

The shell <NUM> further defines a latch recess <NUM> extending upward into the lower surface <NUM> of the shell <NUM>. The latch recess <NUM> defines a latch engagement face <NUM> that is oriented to face forward in the longitudinal direction (i.e., in the +Z-direction). The latch recess <NUM> further defines a recess surface <NUM> positioned below the latch engagement face <NUM>. The recess surface <NUM> is oriented transverse to the latch engagement face <NUM> and extends forward from the recess surface <NUM> in the longitudinal direction (i.e., in the +Z-direction). In embodiments, the latch recess <NUM> further includes a ramp <NUM> that extends downward from the recess surface <NUM> to the lower surface <NUM> of the shell <NUM> (i.e., in the -Y-direction). The latch recess <NUM> may engage a latch of a mounting member to selectively couple the mounting member to the shell <NUM>, as described in greater detail herein.

The shell <NUM> may also define one or more perimeter through slots <NUM> extending through the shell <NUM> in the vertical direction that may also receive a band or belt to fasten the multiport assembly <NUM> to a post or utility pole. Beyond these perimeter through slots <NUM>, the multiport assembly <NUM> disclosed herein may also include a mounting member that attaches in any suitable manner to the shell <NUM> for further mounting options.

Referring to <FIG>, an upper and a lower perspective view of an example mounting member <NUM> are schematically depicted, respectively. The mounting member <NUM> generally includes one or more multiport engagement portions <NUM>, a mounting portion <NUM>, and a latch <NUM>. The multiport engagement portions <NUM> are sized and shaped to correspond to the slots <NUM> (<FIG> and <FIG>) of the shell <NUM> of the multiport assembly <NUM>, and each multiport engagement portion <NUM> includes one or more slot engagement tabs <NUM> extending outward from the multiport engagement portions <NUM>. The slot engagement tabs <NUM> are sized and shaped to be positioned within the channels <NUM> (<FIG>) of the slots <NUM> and to engage with the tabs <NUM> (<FIG>) of the shell <NUM> of the multiport assembly <NUM>. The multiport engagement portions <NUM> further define a mounting member endface <NUM> that is oriented to face forward in the longitudinal direction (i.e., in the +Z-direction). In embodiments, the mounting member endface <NUM> may engage the endfaces <NUM> (<FIG> and <FIG>) of the slots <NUM> of the shell <NUM> to restrict longitudinal movement of the mounting member <NUM> with respect to the shell <NUM>, as described in greater detail herein.

The latch <NUM> generally includes a latch tab <NUM> and a multiport engagement face <NUM> that extends outward from the latch tab <NUM> in the vertical direction and that is oriented to face in the rearward longitudinal direction (i.e., in the -Z-direction). In embodiments, the multiport engagement face <NUM> is engageable with the latch engagement face <NUM> (<FIG>) to selectively restrict movement of the mounting member <NUM> with respect to the shell <NUM> (<FIG>) in the longitudinal direction, as described in greater detail herein. In embodiments the latch <NUM> further includes a ramp <NUM> that extends upward from the multiport engagement face <NUM> to the latch tab <NUM> (i.e., in the +Y-direction). The ramp <NUM> may engage the shell <NUM> (<FIG>) to selectively deform the latch tab <NUM> outward form the shell <NUM> such that the latch <NUM> may be moved into the latch recess (<FIG>), as described in greater detail herein.

The mounting portion <NUM> of the mounting member <NUM> generally includes an outward face <NUM> and one or more standoffs <NUM> extending outward from the outward face <NUM>. Each of the one or more standoffs <NUM> may define a corresponding aperture <NUM> through which a fastener <NUM> may be inserted. In the embodiment depicted in <FIG>, the mounting portion <NUM> includes two standoffs <NUM>, each of the standoffs <NUM> including a fastener <NUM> inserted within an aperture <NUM> of the standoff <NUM>. In embodiments, the fastener <NUM> may include any suitable mechanical fastener, such as a screw or the like. While the embodiment depicted in <FIG> includes two standoffs <NUM> that are spaced apart from one another in the longitudinal direction, it should be understood that the mounting member <NUM> may include a single standoff <NUM> and corresponding aperture <NUM>, or may include multiple standoffs <NUM> with corresponding apertures <NUM>.

In the embodiment depicted in <FIG> each of the standoffs <NUM> define strap apertures <NUM> extending through the mounting member <NUM>. In embodiments, the mounting member <NUM> may be installed to a surface, such as a wall, a utility pole, or the like. For example, the mounting member <NUM> may be attached to a surface either by the fasteners <NUM> or by a zip-tie, belt, strap the like extending through the strap apertures <NUM>. Because the standoffs <NUM> extend outward from the outward face <NUM>, as the mounting member <NUM> is attached to the surface, the standoffs <NUM> may engage the surface, while the outward face <NUM> of the mounting member <NUM> and the lower surface <NUM> (<FIG>) of the shell <NUM> are spaced apart from the surface. As the mounting member <NUM> is attached to the surface, components of the mounting member <NUM> in contact with the surface may tend to deform to match the contours of the surface, particularly when force is applied to engage and secure the multiport assembly <NUM> (<FIG>) to the surface. Because the standoffs <NUM> act to space the outward face <NUM> of the mounting member <NUM> and the lower surface <NUM> (<FIG>) of the shell <NUM> apart from the surface, the standoffs <NUM> may limit deformation of the outward face <NUM> and the lower surface <NUM> of the shell <NUM>, thereby assisting in maintaining the structural integrity of the multiport assembly <NUM> as it is fastened to a surface.

In embodiments, the mounting member <NUM> may be formed from any suitable material, such as a polymer, a composite, a resin, or the like, and may be formed through any suitable process, such as and without limitation molding or the like. In some embodiments, the mounting member <NUM> is formed of the same material as the shell <NUM> (<FIG>) of the multiport assembly <NUM>. In some embodiments, the mounting member <NUM> is formed of a different material than the shell <NUM> (<FIG>) of the multiport assembly <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, a perspective view of the mounting member <NUM> and the shell <NUM> of the multiport <NUM> are schematically depicted. To install the mounting member <NUM> to the shell <NUM>, the slot engagement tabs <NUM> of the mounting member <NUM> are aligned with the cutouts <NUM> of the slots <NUM>. With the slot engagement tabs <NUM> aligned with the cutouts <NUM>, latch <NUM> is positioned rearward of the latch recess <NUM> in the longitudinal direction (i.e., in the -Z-direction). The slot engagement tabs <NUM> may be inserted into the cutouts <NUM> of the slots <NUM>, and the mounting member <NUM> may be slid forward in the longitudinal direction (i.e., in the +Z-direction) such that the slot engagement tabs <NUM> are positioned within the channels <NUM> (<FIG>) and engaged with the tabs <NUM>. As the mounting member <NUM> moves forward in the longitudinal direction, the mounting member endface <NUM> engages the endfaces <NUM> of the slots <NUM>, restricting movement of the mounting member <NUM> in the +Z-direction.

As the mounting member <NUM> moves forward in the longitudinal direction , the latch <NUM> is engaged with the latch recess <NUM> of the shell <NUM>. For example and referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, a perspective view and section view of the mounting member <NUM> installed to the shell <NUM> along section <NUM>-<NUM> of <FIG> are schematically depicted, respectively. As the mounting member <NUM> moves forward in the longitudinal direction, the ramp <NUM> of the latch <NUM> engages the shell <NUM>, and the latch <NUM> may elastically deform outward and away from the shell <NUM> (i.e., in the -Y-direction). As the mounting member <NUM> continues to move forward, the ramp <NUM> and the multiport engagement face <NUM> of the latch <NUM> are positioned within the latch recess <NUM>. More particularly, the multiport engagement face <NUM> of the latch <NUM> engages the latch engagement face <NUM> of the shell <NUM>, thereby restricting rearward movement of the mounting member <NUM> in the longitudinal direction (i.e., in the -Z-direction). In some embodiments, the latch <NUM> may extend beyond the shell <NUM> by a distance d in the longitudinal direction, which may assist in ensure that a user may access the latch <NUM> to selectively release the shell <NUM> from the mounting member <NUM>, for example by deforming the latch <NUM> outward and away from the shell <NUM> to disengage the multiport engagement face <NUM> from the latch engagement face <NUM>. Through engagement between the multiport engagement face <NUM> and the latch engagement face <NUM>, and through engagement between the mounting member endface <NUM> (<FIG>) and the endface <NUM> (<FIG>) of the slots <NUM>, forward and rearward movement of the mounting member <NUM> in the longitudinal direction is restricted. Furthermore, outward movement of the mounting member <NUM> with respect to the shell <NUM> is restricted through engagement between the slot engagement tabs <NUM> (<FIG>) of the mounting member <NUM> and the tabs <NUM> of the shell <NUM>. In this way, the mounting member <NUM> may be selectively coupled to the shell <NUM>.

As the mounting member <NUM> may be selectively coupled to the shell <NUM>, the mounting member <NUM> may be installed to a surface, for example a wall or a utility pole, and then the shell <NUM> may subsequently be selectively coupled to the mounting member <NUM>. By installing the mounting member <NUM> to the surface first, the amount of debris from the installation process (e.g., dirt or dust from installing the fasteners) exposed to the multiport assembly <NUM> may be reduced.

Referring to <FIG>, a lower perspective view of another multiport assembly <NUM> including another mounting member <NUM> is schematically depicted. In the embodiment depicted in <FIG>, the shell <NUM> of the multiport assembly <NUM> defines one or more lateral slots <NUM> that extend inward from the lower surface <NUM> of the shell <NUM>. The one or more lateral slots <NUM> generally extend along the lower surface <NUM> of the shell <NUM> in the lateral direction. The lateral slot <NUM> is arranged into back-to-back portions that extend inward toward the middle on the lower side for allowing a smooth insertion of a strap, tie-wrap, belt or the like thru an aperture to secure the multiport assembly <NUM>.

In this embodiment, the lateral slots <NUM> cooperate with the longitudinal member <NUM> to form a strap aperture (not numbered) through a lower portion of the shell <NUM> for securing the multiport assembly <NUM> in a first manner. The multiport assemblies <NUM> may also be secured in a second manner using one or more apertures in the shell <NUM>.

In the embodiment depicted in <FIG>, the mounting member <NUM> generally includes a forward tab <NUM> that extends forward from the shell <NUM> in the longitudinal direction (i.e., in the +Z-direction). The forward tab <NUM> generally defines an aperture <NUM> extending through the forward tab <NUM> and through which a fastener may be inserted to secure the multiport assembly <NUM> to a surface, such as a wall, a utility pole, or the like. The mounting member <NUM> further includes a longitudinal member <NUM> that is integral with the forward tab <NUM> extends along the lower surface <NUM> of the shell <NUM>. In embodiments, the longitudinal member <NUM> extends over and partially covers the one or more lateral slots <NUM>. In embodiments, a band, a strap, or the like, may be inserted between the longitudinal member <NUM> and the one or more lateral slots <NUM> to secure the multiport assembly <NUM> to a surface, such as a utility pole or the like. The longitudinal member <NUM> extends outward from the shell <NUM>, forming a standoff <NUM> that is spaced apart from the lower surface <NUM> in the vertical direction. Similar to the embodiment described above with respect to <FIG>, when the multiport assembly <NUM> is secured to a surface, the standoff <NUM> may contact and engage the surface while the lower surface <NUM> of the shell <NUM> is spaced apart from the surface. The standoff <NUM> may thereby limit contact between the multiport assembly <NUM> with the surface, limiting deformation of the shell <NUM> of the multiport assembly <NUM>, as described above.

In the embodiment depicted in <FIG>, the mounting member <NUM> further defines a rear aperture <NUM> positioned rearward of the forward tab <NUM>. In some embodiments, the rear aperture <NUM> is positioned at the rear end <NUM> of the shell <NUM> when the mounting member <NUM> is assembled to the shell <NUM> and aligns with a rear shell aperture <NUM> that extends through the shell <NUM>. In other words, there is a through-hole from the lower side to the upper-side of the shell <NUM>. A fastener may be inserted through the rear shell aperture <NUM> and the rear aperture <NUM> of the mounting member <NUM> to secure the multiport assembly <NUM> to a surface. In embodiments, the rear aperture <NUM> of the mounting member <NUM> may be defined by a bushing <NUM> that extends at least partially within the rear shell aperture <NUM>. The bushing <NUM> may reduce stress applied to the shell <NUM>, such as by a fastener inserted within the rear shell aperture <NUM> to secure the multiport assembly <NUM> to a surface. In one embodiment, bushing may be slightly longer than the height H of the multiport assembly so that bushing can carry any compressive loading applied by the fastener and inhibits damage to the shell <NUM>.

In embodiments, the mounting member <NUM> may be coupled to the shell <NUM> in any suitable manner, for example through adhesive, sealant, welding, overmolding, or the like. In some embodiments, the mounting member <NUM> may be coupled to the shell <NUM> by a snap-fit or the like.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, a lower perspective view and an exploded view of a multiport assembly <NUM> with another mounting member <NUM> are depicted, respectively. <FIG> further depicts an explanatory dust plug <NUM> comprising a tether that may be attached to the multiport assembly <NUM> if desired; however, other types of dust plugs may be used with any of the multiport assemblies <NUM> disclosed herein. When installed, the dust plugs inhibit dirt, dust or debris from entering the optical connector ports <NUM> or the input connector port <NUM>. <FIG> and <FIG> show further views of the dust plug <NUM> and <FIG> and <FIG> depict a dust plug <NUM> that has a pulling grip <NUM>, but does not include a tether. Other dust plug features or designs are also shown in <FIG>. Dust plugs according to claimed invention include a body having a locking feature and a keying portion. The locking feature of the dust plug is used for engaging with a portion of multiport. The keying portion of the dust plug is disposed about <NUM> degrees from the locking feature as depicted for aligning the locking feature within the optical connector port. The dust plugs having tethers may be attached to multiport assemblies to prevent loss as shown if desired or not. <FIG> and <FIG> depict explanatory modular optical adapter assemblies 130SA that may be aligned to the connector ports <NUM>,<NUM> of the shell <NUM> using one or more alignment features formed in the shell <NUM>.

Similar to the embodiment described above and depicted in <FIG>, the mounting member <NUM> includes the forward tab <NUM> extending forward from the shell <NUM>, the forward tab <NUM> including the aperture <NUM> extending through the forward tab <NUM>. The mounting member <NUM> further includes the longitudinal member <NUM> extending along the lower surface <NUM> of the shell <NUM> in the longitudinal direction. In the embodiment depicted in <FIG> and <FIG>, the longitudinal member <NUM> defines the rear aperture <NUM> extending through the longitudinal member <NUM>.

In the embodiment depicted in <FIG> and <FIG>, the longitudinal member <NUM> defines the standoff <NUM> that is spaced apart from the lower surface <NUM> of the shell <NUM>. However, in the embodiment depicted in <FIG>, the longitudinal member <NUM> and the forward tab <NUM> are formed as separate components that are spaced apart from one another when installed to the shell <NUM> of the multiport assembly <NUM>. The longitudinal member <NUM>, and accordingly the standoff <NUM>, extends along a discrete portion of the shell <NUM> in the longitudinal direction (i.e., the standoff <NUM> does not extend along the entire lower surface <NUM> of the shell <NUM>). By extending only partially along the lower surface <NUM> of the shell <NUM>, when the multiport assembly <NUM> is coupled to a surface, contact between the longitudinal member <NUM> and the surface is limited, which assists in reducing the deformation of longitudinal member <NUM> and the shell <NUM> as result of contact with a securing surface.

In embodiments, the forward tab <NUM> may define a forward standoff <NUM> that is spaced apart from the lower surface <NUM> of the shell <NUM>. Like the standoff <NUM> of the longitudinal member <NUM>, when the multiport assembly <NUM> is secured to a surface, the forward standoff <NUM> may contact and engage the surface, while the lower surface <NUM> of the shell <NUM> remains spaced apart from the surface. In embodiments, the forward standoff <NUM> and the standoff <NUM> of the longitudinal member <NUM> are aligned with one another in in the X-Z plane as depicted, so that the forward standoff <NUM> and the standoff <NUM> of the longitudinal member <NUM> collectively provide a level mounting surface for the multiport assembly <NUM>. The lateral slot <NUM> having portions arranged back-to-back to extend inward toward the middle on the lower side allow a smooth insertion of a strap, tie-wrap, belt or the like. In this embodiment, the lateral slot <NUM> cooperates with longitudinal member <NUM> for forming a thru an aperture once the longitudinal member <NUM> is attached to the shell <NUM>. The longitudinal member <NUM> may be attached or coupled in any suitable fashion. In one embodiment, only the area about a bushing <NUM> is attached or coupled to the shell in a suitable fashion such as adhesive, welding or the like, the other end is not attached so the cantilevered end may deflect. By attaching the longitudinal member <NUM> to the shell <NUM> with the cantilevered end it allows the member to deflect as needed instead of carrying unnecessary stress that could break or be damaged under excessive loading. Moreover, the bushing may be longer than the height H of the multiport assembly to inhibit damage to the shell from a fastener.

<FIG> also depicts dust plug <NUM> having a dust plug body <NUM> and a dust plug tether (not numbered). As shown, the dust plug body is attached to the dust plug tether. In this embodiment, the dust plug has a wishbone design with a plurality of dust plug bodies <NUM> attached to respective legs <NUM> of the dust plug tether. Consequently, multiple dust plug bodies <NUM> may be attached to the multiport assembly at a single point. For instance, if four dust plug bodies are desired for the multiport assembly, then less than four attachments of tethers are needed such a two attachments with each dust plug <NUM> having two dust plug bodies <NUM>. To that end, respective legs <NUM> of the dust plug tether are attached to a respective dust plug body <NUM> as shown. Each leg <NUM> is attached to a runner <NUM> (<FIG>) having an end <NUM> of the dust plug tether. Thus, the mounting member or faceplate may capture a portion of the dust plug tether between the faceplate and the shell of the multiport as shown in <FIG>, <FIG> or <FIG> or between the mounting member and the shell of the multiport as shown in <FIG>. Dust plugs may also include a gripping portion <NUM> disposed between the dust plug body <NUM> and the end <NUM> of the dust plug tether as depicted. The gripping portion <NUM> aids in the removal of the dust plug from the optical connector port <NUM> when depressing the push-button <NUM> by providing a portion to grip and pull for removal.

<FIG> and <FIG> depict details of modular optical adapter assembly 130SA that may be used with the multiport assemblies <NUM> disclosed herein if desired with the rear connector <NUM> that is internal to the multiport assembly <NUM>. Modular optical adapter assemblies 130SA enable quick and easy assembly of the multiport assemblies <NUM> in a scalable manner. As discussed, the modular optical adapter assemblies 130SA also allow the mating components such as the adapters 134A corresponding to the respective connector port <NUM>,<NUM> to move or "float" independently of the other modular optical adapter assemblies 130SA relative to the shell <NUM> for preserving optical performance. Modular optical adapter assemblies 130SA that may be aligned to the connector ports <NUM>,<NUM> of the shell <NUM> and allowed to have slight movement within the one or more alignment features formed in the shell <NUM>. For instance, <FIG> depicts a row of alignment features disposed behind the opening for push-buttons <NUM> configured as pockets (not numbered) for receiving complementary alignment features on the top of the modular optical adapter assembly 130SA, and <FIG> shows a row of alignment features the connector ports <NUM>, <NUM> configured as a U-shaped protrusions (not numbered) on the shell for receiving complementary alignment features on the bottom of the modular optical adapter assembly 130SA. Other suitable alignment features may be integrally formed in the cavity <NUM> of shell <NUM> if desired or have separate component that aid with alignment.

Modular optical adapter assemblies 130SA comprise adapter 134A aligned with the respective connector port <NUM>,<NUM> when assembled. By way of example, the top of the modular optical adapter assemblies may have alignment features 131AFT that are inserted into the pockets of the shell <NUM>. Likewise, the bottom of the modular optical adapter assemblies may have alignment feature such as a recessed portion that cooperates with the U-shaped protrusions of shell <NUM>. Adapter 134A may be biased by a resilient member 136RM and the adapter 134A may be secured to an adapter body <NUM> using a retainer <NUM>. As best shown in <FIG>, modular optical adapter assembly 130SA comprises securing element 190A and securing element resilient member 190RM. However, other embodiments could comprise an actuator for translating the securing element 190A.

As depicted, securing member 190A is inserted into a front end of adapter body <NUM> along with securing element resilient member 190RM. Specifically, a rim (not numbered) of securing member <NUM> is inserted into a hoop <NUM> of adapter body <NUM>, and standoffs190SO are disposed in a portion of the resilient member pocket (not numbered) at the bottom of the adapter body <NUM>. Securing element resilient member 190RM is disposed in the resilient member pocket as shown in <FIG> for biasing the securing member 190A to a retain position as shown. This construction advantageously keeps the assembly intact using the securing element resilient member 190RM. Standoffs 190SO of adapter body <NUM> may also act as stops to limit the translation of securing element 190A.

In this embodiment, modular optical adapter assembly 130SA may also comprise a ferrule sleeve FS, a ferrule sleeve retainer 135R, resilient member 136RM, a retainer <NUM> along with the adapter 134A. Adapter body <NUM> has a portion of the connector port passageway disposed therein for receiving a portion of the external optical connector <NUM>. Ferrule sleeve retainer 135R and ferrule sleeve FS are aligned for assembly into the adapter 134A for assembly and seated using the ferrule sleeve retainer 135R. The resilient member 136RM is disposed over a barrel of adapter 134A and seated on the flange of adapter 134A, then retainer <NUM> can be attached to adapter body <NUM> using its latch arms 137LA to secure the same. Other variations of the modular optical adapter assembly 130SA are possible.

As best shown in <FIG>, the securing element 190A comprises a locking feature <NUM>. Locking feature <NUM> cooperates with a portion of the optical connector <NUM> when it is fully-inserted into the respective connector port <NUM>,<NUM> for securing the same. Specifically, the connector housing of optical connector <NUM> may have a cooperating geometry that engages the locking feature <NUM> of securing element 190A. The locking feature <NUM> may be disposed within the bore 190B of the securing element 190A.

In one embodiment, locking feature <NUM> comprises a ramp as shown. The ramp may be disposed within the bore 190B of the securing element 190A. For instance, the ramp is integrally formed at a portion of the bore 190B with the ramp angling up when looking into the connector port <NUM>,<NUM>. The ramp allows the connector to push and translate the securing element 190A downward against the securing element resilient member 190RM as the connector is inserted into the connector port <NUM>,<NUM>. Ramp may have any suitable geometry. For instance, the ramp may have an incline that leads to a horizontal portion. Once the locking feature <NUM> of the securing element 190A is aligned with the cooperating geometry of the connector, then a portion of the securing element 190A translates so the locking feature <NUM> engages the locking feature of the connector for securing the optical connector <NUM> in the respective connector port <NUM>,<NUM>.

Locking feature <NUM> comprises a retention surface (not visible). In one embodiment, the backside of the ramp of the locking feature <NUM> forms a ledge that cooperates with complimentary geometry on the connector housing of optical connector <NUM>. However, retention surface may have different surfaces or edges that cooperate for securing the connector for creating the desired mechanical retention. For instance, the retention surface may be canted or have a vertical wall for tailoring the pull-out force for the connector port. However, other geometries are possible for the retention surface. Additionally, the connector port <NUM>,<NUM> has a sealing location at the connector port passageway with an O-ring on the connector that is located closer to the connector port opening than the securing element <NUM> or locking feature <NUM>. In other words, the connector port has a sealing surface for the connector disposed at a distance from the connector port opening so it seals to the shell <NUM> of the multiport assembly <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, an upper perspective view of the multiport assembly <NUM> and a section view of the multiport assembly <NUM> along section <NUM>-<NUM> of <FIG> are schematically depicted, respectively. In embodiments, the longitudinal member <NUM> further includes the bushing <NUM> extending at least partially within the rear shell aperture <NUM>. The longitudinal member <NUM> may further extend over a lateral slot <NUM> of the shell <NUM> such that a strap or band may be positioned between the longitudinal member <NUM> and the lateral lot <NUM> may secure the multiport assembly <NUM> to a utility pole or the like.

In embodiments, the forward tab <NUM> and the longitudinal member <NUM> may be coupled to the shell <NUM> in any suitable manner, for example through adhesive, sealant, welding, overmolding, or the like. In some embodiments, the forward tab <NUM> and the longitudinal member <NUM> may be coupled to the shell <NUM> by a snap-fit or the like. In this embodiment, the mounting member <NUM> captures a portion of the dust plug tether (such as the end <NUM>) between the mounting member <NUM> and the shell <NUM> as depicted in <FIG> and <FIG>. As depicted in <FIG>, the mounting member <NUM> has one or more slots <NUM> for allowing the respective runner <NUM> of the dust plug tether to pass through, but slot <NUM> is sized so it captures the larger end <NUM> of the dust plug tether to inhibit removal or loss of the dust plug <NUM>.

<FIG> depicts a front view of the assembled multiport assembly <NUM> of <FIG> with dust plug <NUM> without a tether inserted into input connector port <NUM> and the dust plug bodies <NUM> of dust plug <NUM> inserted into respective optical connector ports <NUM>. In this embodiment, the input connector port <NUM> uses a different style of dust plug <NUM> without a tether compared with dust plug <NUM> having a tether. As shown, the dust plug tether of dust plug <NUM> is flexible so it is easily bendable so that it may have a portion that is attached to multiport assembly <NUM>. In either instance, the dust plug <NUM> and dust plug <NUM> share similar geometry of a locking feature and keying portion for cooperating with the respective connector ports <NUM>,<NUM> of the multiport assembly. Using two different styles of dust plugs allows the user to easily identify and distinguish the input connector port <NUM> from the connector ports <NUM> for making optical connections toward downstream users in the network.

Further details of dust plug <NUM> are described with reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, and further details of dust plug <NUM> are described with reference to <FIG> and <FIG>. <FIG> depicts a first perspective view of the dust plug <NUM> where the locking feature <NUM> is visible. Locking feature <NUM> comprises a ramp portion with a ledge. The ramp portion and ledge are integrally formed in the dust plug body <NUM> and cooperate with a translating securing element associated with the respective connector port <NUM> to secure the same. Once the dust plug <NUM> is fully seated in the connector port, the respective push-button <NUM> needs to be pressed downward to translate the locking feature and allowing the release of the dust plug when pulling on the tether. <FIG> depicts a second perspective view of dust plug <NUM> showing the keying portion <NUM>. Keying portion <NUM> is a female key and is arranged about <NUM> degrees from the locking feature <NUM>. The dust plug <NUM> also comprises a groove for seating a O-ring <NUM>. O-ring <NUM> is used for sealing the connector port from dust, dirt, debris or the like until the connector port is ready for use. <FIG> depicts end <NUM> of the dust plug tether. As depicted, the end <NUM> has a slot 601a for positioning the end on a rib of the shell <NUM> for placement so it aligns with the slot <NUM> of mounting member <NUM>. End <NUM> also having a larger flared out portion with protrusions 601b on each side for inhibiting the pullout of the dust plug tether from between the mounting member <NUM> and shell <NUM>.

Dust plugs <NUM> provides a flexible dust plug tether so that the dust plug body <NUM> may be easily positioned as desired such as installing into the connector port <NUM> or securing the dust plug body to a dust cap of an external plug connector to keep it out of the way, but allow the dust plug to be available for re-insertion into the connector port <NUM> if needed. The materials and geometry of the dust plug tether aid in determining the flexibility or performance of the dust plug tether. By way of explanation, the dust plug body <NUM> comprises a first material and the dust plug tether comprises a second material. By using two different materials for the different portions of dust plug <NUM> the different characteristics and properties maybe tailored for the desired functionality. The dust plug tether may comprises a portion that is overmolded about a portion of the dust plug body <NUM> using two different materials.

For instance, the first material for the dust plug body <NUM> may be harder than the second material for the dust plug tether. Another characteristic that may be tailored for desired performance between the first and second materials is the flexural modulus. For instance, the flexural modulus for the first material of the dust plug body <NUM> may be much larger than the flexural modulus of the second material for the dust plug tether. By example, the first material may have a flexural modulus that is <NUM> times greater than a flexural modulus of the second material. The performance flexibility of the second material may also be selected by hardness in one embodiment the second material has a Shore D hardness in the range of <NUM>-<NUM>. One example of a suitable second material for the dust plug tether is a thermoplastic polyester elastomer. Such an example of a thermoplastic polyester elastomer is HYTREL® <NUM> available from Dupont Performance Polymers located in Wilmington, DE. The dust plug body <NUM> may be formed from XAREC ™ EA357 which is a syndiotactic polystyrene available from Idemitsu Kosan Co. , Ltd of Tokyo, Japan or Veradel® AG320 available from Specialty Polymers of Alpharetta, GA.

<FIG> and <FIG> are perspective views showing details of dust plug <NUM> shown in the input connector port <NUM> in <FIG>. Dust plug <NUM> is similar to dust plug <NUM> in that it has a locking feature <NUM> and keying portion <NUM>, but it may be formed from a single material without a dust plug tether. Instead, dust plug <NUM> comprises an enlarged end <NUM> on a pulling grip <NUM> so it may be easily removed from the input connector port <NUM> when its respective push-button <NUM> is depressed. Dust plug <NUM> may also comprise a groove for a O-ring <NUM> for sealing the dust cap <NUM> to the connector port like dust plug <NUM>.

<FIG> are schematically depict other concepts that may be used with the dust plugs disclosed herein. As shown in <FIG>, dust plugs <NUM> or <NUM> may have one or more slight protruding portions <NUM> near the interface with the connector port of multiport assembly <NUM> when inserted therein so that the dust plug body is inhibited from over-insertion and making the dust plug easier to remove. <FIG> depicts dust plug <NUM> or <NUM> that further comprises a light pipe LP that is in communication with the respective optical fiber of the connector port so that the user may be able to tell if there is an optical connection or a test signal at the respective port.

<FIG> depict views of another dust plug <NUM> having a dust plug tether similar to the dust plug shown in <FIG> and <FIG>. In this embodiment, the end <NUM> of the dust plug <NUM> has a different configuration for engaging with a faceplate <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. In this variation, end <NUM> comprises a head 601a having rearward notches 601b disposed behind the head 601a along with a disc 601c that cooperates with a respective opening <NUM> in faceplate <NUM>. As best shown in <FIG> the end <NUM> of dust plug <NUM> is inserted into the faceplate <NUM> until the head 601a protrudes beyond respective latches <NUM> of the faceplate <NUM> to inhibit the removal of the dust plug <NUM> from the faceplate <NUM>. <FIG> depicts the tether <NUM> and faceplate <NUM> sub-assembly of <FIG> attached to multiport assembly <NUM>. In this manner, the faceplate <NUM> captures a portion of the dust plug tether between the faceplate <NUM> and shell of the multiport assembly. The faceplate <NUM> may be attached by welding, adhesive or the like to secure it to the multiport assembly <NUM>.

<FIG> depict the another variation of dust plug <NUM> having a tether where the tethers are attached to faceplate <NUM> in a duplex configuration (i.e., two tethers in one opening <NUM> of faceplate) to decrease the number of dust plug attachment points on the multiport assembly <NUM>. In this embodiment, the end <NUM> of each dust plug <NUM> has a configuration so that two ends <NUM> cooperate for engaging with the respective opening <NUM> a faceplate <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. In this variation, end <NUM> comprises a head 601a having an L-shape and a half-disc 601c that cooperates with a respective opening <NUM> in faceplate <NUM>. As best shown in <FIG>, the ends <NUM> of dust plug <NUM> seat into recesses on the backside of faceplate <NUM>, and once installed to inhibit the removal of the dust plug <NUM> from the faceplate <NUM>. Again, the faceplate <NUM> captures portions of the respective dust plug tethers between the faceplate <NUM> and shell of the multiport assembly, and the faceplate <NUM> may be attached by any suitable manner to secure it to the multiport assembly <NUM>.

<FIG> depict a further configuration of a dust plug <NUM> having tether that uses a faceplate for securing an end of the tether to a multiport assembly. <FIG> depicts the dust plugs <NUM> having a tether where each end <NUM> cooperate with the shell <NUM> for engaging with the respective opening <NUM> a faceplate <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. In this variation, end <NUM> comprises a head 601a having a diamond shape that is larger than the respective opening <NUM> in faceplate <NUM>. The ends <NUM> of dust plugs <NUM> seat into a portion of shell <NUM> as shown in <FIG> for alignment and recesses on the backside of faceplate <NUM> inhibit the removal of the dust plug <NUM> from the faceplate <NUM>. Again, the faceplate <NUM> captures portions of the respective dust plug tethers between the faceplate <NUM> and shell of the multiport assembly, and the faceplate <NUM> may be attached by any suitable manner to secure it to the multiport assembly <NUM>.

<FIG> and <FIG> depict another configuration of a dust plug <NUM> having tether and faceplate <NUM> for securing ends <NUM> of the tethers to a multiport assembly <NUM> in a duplex configuration. <FIG> depicts the dust plugs <NUM> having a tether where two ends <NUM> cooperate for engaging with the respective opening <NUM> a faceplate <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. In this variation, end <NUM> comprises a head 601a having an rectangular shape that cooperates with a respective opening <NUM> in faceplate <NUM>. The ends <NUM> of dust plugs <NUM> seat into recesses on the backside of faceplate <NUM>, and once installed to inhibit the removal of the dust plug <NUM> from the faceplate <NUM>. Again, the faceplate <NUM> captures portions of the respective dust plug tethers between the faceplate <NUM> and shell of the multiport assembly, and the faceplate <NUM> may be attached by any suitable manner to secure it to the multiport assembly <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, a lower perspective view of a multiport assembly <NUM> with another mounting member <NUM> is schematically depicted. Similar to the embodiment described above and depicted in <FIG>, the mounting member <NUM> includes the forward tab <NUM> and the separate longitudinal member <NUM> spaced apart from the forward tab <NUM>. In the embodiment depicted in <FIG>, the longitudinal member <NUM> defines the rear aperture <NUM>, however, the rear aperture <NUM> is not aligned with the rear shell aperture <NUM>. In embodiments, a fastener may be positioned through the rear aperture <NUM> of the mounting member <NUM>, and another separate fastener may be positioned through the rear shell aperture <NUM>.

The concepts disclosed allow relatively small multiport assemblies <NUM> having a relatively high-density of connections along with an organized arrangement for optical connectors <NUM> attached to the multiport assemblies <NUM>. Shells have a given height H, width W and length L that define a volume for the terminal as depicted in <FIG>. By way of example, shells <NUM> of multiport assembly <NUM> may define a volume of <NUM> cubic centimeters or less, other embodiments of shells <NUM> may define the volume of <NUM> cubic centimeters or less, other embodiments of shells <NUM> may define the volume of <NUM> cubic centimeters or less as desired. Some embodiments of multiport assemblies <NUM> comprise a port width density of at least one connector port <NUM>,<NUM> per <NUM> millimeters of width W of the multiport assembly <NUM>. Other port width densities are possible such as <NUM> millimeters of width W of the terminal. Likewise, embodiments of multiport assemblies <NUM> may comprise a given density per volume of the shell <NUM> as desired.

The concepts disclosed allow relatively small form-factors for multiport assemblies as shown in Table <NUM>. Table <NUM> below compares representative dimensions, volumes, and normalized volume ratios with respect to the prior art of the shells (i.e., the housings) for multiports having <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> ports as examples of how compact the multiports of the present application are with respect to convention prior art multiports. Specifically, Table <NUM> compares examples of the conventional prior art multiports with multiport assemblies like <FIG> having a linear array of ports with different counts of connector ports <NUM>. As depicted, the respective volumes of the conventional prior art multiports of <FIG> with the same port count are on the order often times larger than multiport assemblies with the same port count as disclosed herein. By way of example and not limitation, the multiport may define a volume of <NUM> cubic centimeters or less for <NUM>-ports, or even if double the size could define a volume of <NUM> cubic centimeters or less for <NUM>-ports. Multiports with smaller port counts such as <NUM>-ports could be even smaller such as the shell or multiport defining a volume of <NUM> cubic centimeters or less for <NUM>-ports, or even if double the size could define a volume of <NUM> cubic centimeters or less for <NUM>-ports. Devices with sizes that are different will have different volumes form the explanatory examples in Table <NUM> and these other variations are within the scope of the disclosure. Consequently, it is apparent the size (e.g., volume) of multiports of the present application are much smaller than the conventional prior art multiports. Of course, the examples of Table <NUM> are for comparison purposes and other sizes and variations of multiports may use the concepts disclosed herein as desired.

One of the reasons that the size of the multiports may be reduced in size with the concepts disclosed herein is that the cable input device and/or external connectors that cooperate with the multiports have locking features that are integrated into the housing of the optical connector <NUM>. In other words, the locking features for holding the fiber optic connector in the respective port of the terminal are integrally formed in the housing of the connector, instead of being a distinct and separate component such as bayonets or threaded coupling nuts.

In other words, the multiport assemblies <NUM> avoid the use of bulky structures such as a coupling nut or bayonet used with conventional hardened external connectors that mate to multiport assemblies <NUM>. In other words, conventional external connectors for multiports have threaded connections or bayonets that require finger access for connection and disconnecting. By eliminating the threaded coupling nut or bayonets (which is a separate component that must rotate about the connector) the spacing between conventional connectors may be greatly reduced. Also eliminating the dedicated coupling nut from the conventional connectors also allows the footprint of the connectors to be smaller, which also aids in reducing the size of the multiports disclosed herein.

Accordingly, it should now be understood that embodiments described herein are directed to multiport assemblies including mounting members with standoff features that limit the surface area of the multiport assembly in contact with surface to which the multiport assembly is secured. The standoffs act to space the shell of the multiport assembly apart from the surface, which assists in limiting deformation of the shell as the shell is secured to the surface, thereby assisting in maintaining the structural integrity of the multiport assembly.

It is noted that recitations herein of a component of the present disclosure being "structurally configured" in a particular way, to embody a particular property, or to function in a particular manner, are structural recitations, as opposed to recitations of intended use. More specifically, the references herein to the manner in which a component is "structurally configured" denotes an existing physical condition of the component and, as such, is to be taken as a definite recitation of the structural characteristics of the component.

It is noted that terms like "preferably," "commonly," and "typically," when utilized herein, are not utilized to limit the scope of the claimed invention or to imply that certain features are critical, essential, or even important to the structure or function of the claimed invention. Rather, these terms are merely intended to identify particular aspects of an embodiment of the present disclosure or to emphasize alternative or additional features that may or may not be utilized in a particular embodiment of the present disclosure.

For the purposes of describing and defining the present invention it is noted that the terms "substantially" and "about" are utilized herein to represent the inherent degree of uncertainty that may be attributed to any quantitative comparison, value, measurement, or other representation. The terms "substantially" and "about" are also utilized herein to represent the degree by which a quantitative representation may vary from a stated reference without resulting in a change in the basic function of the subject matter at issue.

Claim 1:
A multiport assembly comprising:
a shell (<NUM>) extending between a front end (<NUM>) and a rear end (<NUM>) positioned opposite the front end (<NUM>) in a longitudinal direction, the shell (<NUM>) defining a cavity (<NUM>) and a plurality of optical connector ports (<NUM>) positioned at the front end (<NUM>) of the shell (<NUM>) and extending inward from the plurality of optical connector ports (<NUM>) toward the cavity (<NUM>) of the shell (<NUM>);
a plurality of optical adapter assemblies (<NUM>) positioned within the cavity (<NUM>) of the shell (<NUM>), the plurality of optical adapter assemblies (<NUM>) associated with the plurality of optical connector ports (<NUM>) and structurally configured to optically couple optical connectors;
characterized in that it further comprises
a dust plug (<NUM>, <NUM>) comprising a locking feature (<NUM>) and a keying portion (<NUM>).