Patent Description:
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 in the network. These terminated optical fibers and fiber optic cables 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 Coming Incorporated, with similar products available from other manufacturers, as is well documented in the patent literature.

The optical receptacles with which the aforementioned terminated fibers and cables are coupled are commonly provided at optical network units (ONUs), network interface devices (NIDs), and other types of network devices or enclosures, and often require hardware that is sufficiently robust to be employed in a variety of environments under a variety of installation conditions. These conditions may be attributable to the environment in which the connectors are employed, or the habits of the technicians handling the hardware. Consequently, there is a continuing drive to enhance the robustness of these connectorized assemblies, while preserving quick, reliable, and trouble-free optical connection to the network. <CIT> describes an overboot assembly for a fiber optic cable terminus.

Fiber optic connectors, connectorized cable assemblies, closure assemblies, and methods for connecting fiber optic connectors to, and disconnecting fiber optic connectors from closure assemblies are disclosed herein.

The invention provides a fiber optic connector assembly according to claim <NUM>. Different embodiments are set out in the dependent claims. The following aspects, not forming part of the claimed invention, are helpful in understanding the invention.

In an aspect A16, the present disclosure provides the fiber optic connector assembly, wherein the release housing defines an outward release keying portion and wherein the conversion housing defines a rearward conversion keying feature engaged with the outward release keying portion.

In an aspect A17, the present disclosure provides the fiber optic connector assembly, wherein the conversion retention member of the conversion housing defines forwardly-facing connector engagement face, the rotationally-discrete locking portion of the connector housing defining a connector locking face engaged with the forwardly-facing connector engagement face when the conversion retention member is in the engaged position, the conversion retention member of the conversion housing defines a release face that is transverse to the forwardly-facing connector engagement face, the release housing defines one or more release faces that are selectively engageable with the conversion housing, and the release face faces inward in a radial direction that is transverse to the axial direction.

In an aspect A18, the present disclosure provides a fiber optic connector assembly comprising a connector housing defining a locking portion on an outer surface of the connector housing, and a connector keying portion on the outer surface of the connector housing, an adapter assembly selectively coupled to the connector housing, the adapter assembly comprising a conversion housing extending around the connector housing and defining a conversion front end and a conversion retention member selectively engaged with the locking portion of the connector housing, and a release housing positioned between the conversion housing and the connector housing, the release housing defining an inward release keying portion engaged with the connector keying portion, and a release face that is selectively engageable with the conversion retention member.

In an aspect A19, the present disclosure provides the fiber optic connector assembly of aspect A18, wherein the conversion housing defines a forward conversion keying feature structurally configured to engage an SC connector.

In an aspect A20, the present disclosure provides the fiber optic connector assembly of aspect A19, wherein the conversion housing further defines a conversion guide extending outward from the conversion housing and aligned with the forward conversion keying feature.

In an aspect A21, the present disclosure provides the fiber optic connector assembly of any of aspects A18-A20, wherein the release housing defines an outward release keying portion on a release outer surface of the release housing.

In an aspect A22, the present disclosure provides the fiber optic connector assembly of aspect A21, wherein the conversion housing defines a rearward conversion keying feature engaged with the outward release keying portion.

In an aspect A23, the present disclosure provides the fiber optic connector assembly of aspect A22, wherein the rearward conversion keying feature defines a slot engaged with the outward release keying portion of the release housing.

In an aspect A24, the present disclosure provides the fiber optic connector assembly of any of aspects A21-A23, wherein the outward release keying portion is formed as a positive surface projection extending outward from the release outer surface and defines opposing outward release contact surfaces.

In an aspect A25, the present disclosure provides the fiber optic connector assembly of any of aspects A18-A24, wherein the connector keying portion is formed as a negative cut out and defines opposing connector contact surfaces.

In an aspect A26, the present disclosure provides the fiber optic connector assembly of any of aspects A18-A23, wherein the inward release keying portion is formed as a positive surface projection extending inward from a release inner surface in a radial direction that is transverse to an axial direction.

In an aspect A27, the present disclosure provides the fiber optic connector assembly of aspect A18, wherein the conversion housing defines a forward conversion keying feature structurally configured to engage an SC connector, the release housing defines an outward release keying portion on a release outer surface of the release housing, and the conversion housing defines a rearward conversion keying feature engaged with the outward release keying portion.

In an aspect A28, the present disclosure provides a method for disconnecting a fiber optic connector from a closure, the method comprising moving a release housing in an axial direction with respect to a conversion housing engaged with a connector housing, wherein the conversion housing comprises a conversion retention member engaged with a rotationally-discrete locking portion of the connector housing, engaging the conversion retention member of the conversion housing with a release face of the release housing, thereby moving the conversion retention member out of engagement with the rotationally-discrete locking portion of the connector housing, and removing the connector housing from the conversion housing.

In an aspect A29, the present disclosure provides the method of aspect A28, wherein moving the release housing in the axial direction with respect to the conversion housing comprises moving a boot coupled to the release housing in the axial direction with respect to the conversion housing.

In an aspect A30, the present disclosure provides the method of either of aspects A28 or A29, wherein moving the conversion retention member out of engagement with the rotationally-discrete locking portion of the connector housing comprises deflecting the conversion retention member in a radially-outward direction.

In an aspect A31, the present disclosure provides the method of any of aspects A28-A30, wherein moving the conversion retention member out of engagement with the rotationally-discrete locking portion of the connector housing comprises moving a forwardly-facing connector engagement face out of the conversion retention member radially outward from a connector engagement face of rotationally-discrete locking portion of the connector housing.

Additional features of fiber optic connectors, connectorized cable assemblies, closure assemblies, and methods for connecting fiber optic connectors to, and disconnecting fiber optic connectors from closure assemblies will be set forth in the detailed description which follows, and in part will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from that description or recognized by practicing the embodiments described herein, including the detailed description which follows, the claims, as well as the appended drawings.

It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description describe various embodiments and are intended to provide an overview or framework for understanding the claimed subject matter.

Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of optical adapter assemblies, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Whenever possible, the same reference numerals will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts. Embodiments described herein are directed to fiber optic connector assemblies including a connector housing and an adapter assembly including a conversion housing and a release housing. The conversion housing may generally permit the connector housing to be engaged with a dissimilar coupling, for example of a closure. The connector housing may be selectively coupled to, and may be releasable from the conversion housing via the release housing, thereby allowing the connector housing to be selectively coupled to and released from the dissimilar coupling and/or closure.

As used herein, the term "longitudinal direction" refers to the forward-rearward direction of the components described herein (i.e., in the +/- z-direction as depicted). The term "lateral direction" refers to the cross-wise direction of the components (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 (i.e., in the +/- y-direction as depicted). The term "axial direction" generally refers to the longitudinal direction of fiber optic connector assemblies described herein. The term "radial direction" refers to the direction extending outward from the longitudinal direction of fiber optic connector assemblies described herein (i.e., in the R-direction as depicted). The term "circumferential direction refers to the direction extending around the longitudinal direction of fiber optic connector assemblies described herein (i.e., in the C-direction as depicted).

Referring initially to <FIG>, a closure <NUM> is depicted with multiple fiber optic connector assemblies <NUM> inserted at least partially into the closure <NUM>. In embodiments, the closure <NUM> may facilitate the connection of multiple fiber optic connector assemblies <NUM>. In some embodiments, the closure <NUM> may be a boite de protection d'epissurages optiques (BPEO) closure, however, it should be understood that this is merely an example. As shown in <FIG>, closures <NUM> may include multiple closure openings <NUM> that can each receive a fiber optic connector assembly <NUM>. In embodiments, the closure openings <NUM> may be positioned adjacent to one another in the vertical direction and/or in the lateral direction (i.e., in the +/- y-direction and the +/-x-direction as depicted). In other words, the closure openings <NUM> may be positioned on top of one another in the vertical direction, and may be placed side-by-side to one another in the lateral direction (i.e., in the +/- y-direction and the +/-x-direction as depicted, respectively). By positioning the closure openings <NUM> adjacent to one another in the vertical direction and the lateral direction (i.e., in the +/- y-direction and the +/-x-direction as depicted), multiple fiber optic connector assemblies <NUM> may be inserted into the closure <NUM> even when the closure <NUM> has a comparatively small footprint evaluated in the vertical and lateral directions. In other words, by positioning the closure openings <NUM> adjacent to one another in the vertical direction and the lateral direction, the number of fiber optic connector assemblies <NUM> inserted into the closure <NUM> may be increased as compared to similarly-sized closures having closure openings that are not positioned adjacent to one another in the vertical direction and the lateral direction.

However, with fiber optic connector assemblies <NUM> positioned adjacent to one another in the vertical direction and the lateral direction (i.e., in the +/- y-direction and the +/x-direction as depicted), it may be difficult for users to insert and remove the fiber optic connector assemblies <NUM> from the closure <NUM>. In particular, space between adjacent fiber optic connector assemblies <NUM> in the vertical direction and the lateral direction (i.e., in the +/y-direction and the +/-x-direction as depicted, respectively) may be minimal. Minimal distance between the fiber optic connector assemblies <NUM> may make it difficult for a user to manipulate any of the fiber optic connector assemblies <NUM> to remove or insert the fiber optic connector assemblies <NUM> to the closure <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, an isometric view and an exploded isometric view of a fiber optic connector assembly <NUM> of a fiber optic cable <NUM> are schematically depicted, respectively. In embodiments, the fiber optic connector assembly <NUM> includes a connector housing <NUM> and an adapter assembly <NUM> including a conversion housing <NUM> and a release housing <NUM>. The conversion housing <NUM> is engageable with a coupling <NUM>. In the embodiment depicted in <FIG>, the coupling is embodied as an SC coupling, however, it should be understood that this is merely an example, and the conversion housing <NUM> may be engageable with any suitable coupling, for example and without limitation, an LC coupling or the like. In some embodiments, couplings <NUM> may be positioned at least partially within the closure openings <NUM> (<FIG>), and the fiber optic connector assemblies <NUM> inserted into the closure <NUM> (<FIG>) may each interface with a coupling <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the fiber optic connector assembly <NUM> further includes a boot <NUM> coupled to the release housing <NUM>. The boot <NUM> and the release housing <NUM> may be selectively movable with respect to the conversion housing <NUM> in the longitudinal direction (i.e., in the +/- z-direction as depicted), as described in greater detail herein.

In some embodiments, the fiber optic connector assembly <NUM> may include a grommet <NUM> and/or a washer <NUM>. The connector housing <NUM> may be passed through the grommet <NUM> and/or the washer <NUM>, and the grommet <NUM> and/or the washer <NUM> may restrict environmental elements (e.g., water, humidity, etc.) from reaching an interior of the fiber optic connector assembly <NUM>. While in the embodiment depicted in <FIG> the grommet <NUM> is depicted as having a two-piece construction, it should be understood that this is merely an example. In some embodiments, the fiber optic connector assembly <NUM> may include one or more sealing elements <NUM> engaged with the release housing <NUM> and/or the conversion housing <NUM>. The one or more sealing elements <NUM> may include o-rings or the like.

Referring to <FIG>, a front isometric view of the connector housing <NUM> of the fiber optic cable <NUM> and an isometric view of the release housing <NUM> are schematically depicted, respectively. In embodiments, the connector housing <NUM> defines an outer surface <NUM> extending from a rear end <NUM> to a front end <NUM> in the longitudinal direction (i.e., in the +/- z-direction as depicted). In embodiments, a ferrule <NUM> may be positioned at the front end <NUM> of the connector housing <NUM>. An optical fiber may extend through the ferrule <NUM> in the longitudinal direction (i.e., in the +/- z-direction as depicted). In embodiments in which the fiber optic cable <NUM> includes a single optical fiber, the optical fiber may be coaxial with the longitudinal direction (i.e., the +/- z-direction as depicted). For multifiber cables, this alignment will be offset for one, more than one, or all of the optical fibers of the fiber optic cable <NUM>.

The connector housing <NUM> includes a connector keying portion <NUM> defined on the outer surface <NUM> of the connector housing <NUM>. According to the claimed invention, the connector keying portion <NUM> is rotationally discrete on the outer surface <NUM> of the connector housing <NUM>. As used used herein, the term "rotationally" discrete represents a limited width-wise extent along the outer surface <NUM> of the connector housing <NUM>, as the connector housing <NUM> is rotated in the circumferential direction C.

In embodiments, the connector keying portion <NUM> includes pair of opposing connector contact surfaces <NUM>. The opposing connector contact surfaces <NUM> are structurally configured to inhibit rotation of the connector housing <NUM> in the circumferential direction C when engaged with a complementary keying portion of, for example, an optical connection port. However, some optical connection ports, such as those of the closure <NUM> (<FIG>) and the coupling <NUM> (<FIG>) may not be sized and/or shaped to directly interface with the connector housing <NUM>. In these configurations, the opposing connector contact surfaces <NUM> of the connector keying portion <NUM> may interface with a keying portion of the adapter assembly <NUM>, and the adapter assembly <NUM> may interface with a keying portion of the closure <NUM> (<FIG>) and/or the coupling <NUM> (<FIG>).

For example and referring to <FIG>, a section view of the release housing <NUM> is schematically depicted. In embodiments, the release housing <NUM> defines a release outer surface <NUM> extending from a release rear end <NUM> to a release front end <NUM> in the longitudinal direction (i.e., in the +/- z-direction as depicted). In embodiments, the release housing <NUM> defines a release inner surface <NUM> opposite the release outer surface <NUM>. In the embodiment depicted in <FIG>, the release housing <NUM> defines an inward release keying portion <NUM>. For example, in the embodiment depicted in <FIG>, the inward release keying portion <NUM> defines a pair of opposing contact surfaces <NUM> extending inward from the release inner surface <NUM> in the radial direction R.

When assembled, the connector housing <NUM> may be at least partially inserted into the release housing <NUM>. In embodiments, the connector keying portion <NUM> of the connector housing <NUM> is engageable with the inward release keying portion <NUM> of the release housing <NUM>. For example, in the embodiment depicted in <FIG>, the connector keying portion <NUM> is formed as a negative cutout extending into the connector housing <NUM>, and the inward release keying portion <NUM> is formed as a positive surface projection extending from the release inner surface <NUM> in the radial direction R. In embodiments, the opposing connector contact surfaces <NUM> of the connector keying portion <NUM> of the connector housing <NUM> may engage the opposing contact surfaces <NUM> of the inward release keying portion <NUM> of the release housing <NUM>, thereby restricting rotation of the connector housing <NUM> with respect to the release housing <NUM>. Furthermore the inward release keying portion <NUM> of the release housing <NUM> may assist in ensuring rotational alignment between the connector housing <NUM> and the release housing <NUM>. For example, in the embodiment depicted in <FIG>, the inward release keying portion <NUM> may interfere with portions of outer surface <NUM> of the connector housing <NUM> other than the connector keying portion <NUM>. Interference between the inward release keying portion <NUM> with the outer surface <NUM> of the connector housing <NUM> may restrict insertion of the connector housing <NUM> into the release housing <NUM> unless the connector keying portion <NUM> of the connector housing <NUM> is aligned with the inward release keying portion <NUM> of the release housing <NUM> in the circumferential direction C. In embodiments, the ferrule <NUM>, and the optic fiber or fibers extending through the ferrule <NUM>, may be positioned at a particular rotational orientation with respect to the connector housing <NUM>. By allowing the connector housing <NUM> (and accordingly the ferrule <NUM>) to be fully inserted into the release housing <NUM> in only one rotational orientation, the optical fiber or fibers extending through the ferrule <NUM> may be rotationally aligned with a corresponding optical fiber or fibers of a closure <NUM> (<FIG>), as described in greater detail herein.

While in the embodiment depicted in <FIG>, the connector keying portion <NUM> of the connector housing <NUM> is described and depicted as a negative cutout and the inward release keying portion <NUM> of the release housing <NUM> is described and depicted as being a positive surface projection, it should be understood that this is merely an example. In embodiments, the connector keying portion <NUM> of the connector housing <NUM> and the inward release keying portion <NUM> of the release housing <NUM> may include any suitable complementary shapes to restrict rotation between the release housing <NUM> and the connector housing <NUM> and to ensure rotational alignment between the release housing <NUM> and the connector housing <NUM>. For example, in embodiments, the connector keying portion <NUM> may be a positive surface projection extending outward from the outer surface <NUM> of the connector housing <NUM>, and the inward release keying portion <NUM> may be a negative cutout extending into the release inner surface <NUM> of the release housing <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG> a side isometric view of the release housing <NUM> is schematically depicted. In embodiments, the release housing <NUM> defines a release slot <NUM> extending through the release outer surface <NUM>. The release housing <NUM> may further define one or more release faces <NUM> that are selectively engageable with the conversion housing <NUM> (<FIG>), as described in greater detail herein. In the embodiment depicted in <FIG>, the release housing <NUM> defines a pair of release faces <NUM> positioned opposite one another across the release slot <NUM>, however, it should be understood that this is merely an example, and the release housing <NUM> may define a single release face or any suitable number of release faces. In embodiments, the release faces <NUM> face outwardly in the radial direction R and rearwardly in the longitudinal direction (i.e., in the -z-direction as depicted).

In embodiments, the release housing <NUM> defines an outward release keying portion <NUM> positioned on the release outer surface <NUM>. The outward release keying portion <NUM> generally includes outward release contact surfaces <NUM> that are positioned opposite one another. For example, in the embodiment depicted in <FIG>, the outward release keying portion <NUM> is formed as a positive surface projection extending outward form the release outer surface <NUM> in the radial direction R, and the outward release contact surfaces <NUM> face in opposite directions. The outward release contact surfaces <NUM> may engage a corresponding keying portion of the conversion housing <NUM> (<FIG>), as described in greater detail herein.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, a side section view and a rear section view of the conversion housing <NUM> are schematically depicted, respectively. In embodiments, the conversion housing <NUM> extends between a conversion rear end <NUM> and a conversion front end <NUM> in the longitudinal direction (i.e., in the +/- z-direction as depicted). The conversion housing <NUM> generally defines a conversion outer surface <NUM> and a conversion inner sidewall <NUM> opposite the conversion outer surface <NUM>. The conversion housing <NUM> further defines a conversion inner space <NUM> that may receive the release housing <NUM> (<FIG>), as described in greater detail herein.

According to the claimed invention, the conversion housing <NUM> includes a conversion retention member <NUM>. The conversion retention member <NUM> generally defines a forwardly-facing connector engagement face <NUM> that is structurally configured to engage an engagement face of the connector housing <NUM> (<FIG>), as described in greater detail herein. In embodiments, the forwardly-facing connector engagement face <NUM> faces forward in the longitudinal direction (i.e., in the +z-direction as depicted). In some embodiments, the forwardly-facing connector engagement face <NUM> is orthogonal to the longitudinal direction (i.e., the +/- z-direction as depicted). In some embodiments, the forwardly-facing connector engagement face <NUM> may not be orthogonal to the longitudinal direction (i.e., the +/- z-direction as depicted), and may face at least partially outwardly or inwardly in the radial direction R. As described in greater detail herein, the orientation of the forwardly-facing connector engagement face <NUM> with respect to the longitudinal direction (i.e., the +/- z-direction as depicted) may restrict the withdrawal of the connector housing <NUM> (<FIG>) from the conversion housing <NUM>.

According to the claimed invention, the conversion retention member <NUM> defines a rearwardly-facing ramp <NUM> opposite the forwardly-facing connector engagement face <NUM>. The rearwardly-facing ramp <NUM> may face rearward in the longitudinal direction (i.e., in the -z-direction as depicted) and may face at least partially inward in the radial direction R. When the connector housing <NUM> (<FIG>) and/or the release housing <NUM> (<FIG>) are inserted into the conversion housing <NUM>, the connector housing <NUM> and/or the release housing <NUM> may engage the rearwardly-facing ramp <NUM> of the conversion retention member <NUM>. Because the rearwardly-facing ramp <NUM> faces at least partially inward in the radial direction R, as the connector housing <NUM> (<FIG>) and/or the release housing <NUM> (<FIG>) are inserted into the conversion housing <NUM> in the longitudinal direction (i.e., in the +z-direction as depicted), the conversion retention member <NUM> may deflect outwardly in the radial direction R.

In some embodiments, the conversion retention member <NUM> defines a forwardly-facing conversion release face <NUM>. In the embodiment depicted in <FIG>, the conversion retention member <NUM> defines a pair of forwardly-facing conversion release faces <NUM> that are positioned on opposite sides of the forwardly-facing connector engagement face <NUM>. In embodiments, the forwardly-facing conversion release faces <NUM> may face forward in the longitudinal direction (i.e., in the +z-direction as depicted) and inward in the radial direction R. The forwardly-facing conversion release faces <NUM> may engage the release faces <NUM> (<FIG>) of the release housing <NUM> (<FIG>), as described in greater detail herein.

Referring to <FIG>, an isometric section view and a side section view of the conversion housing <NUM> is schematically depicted. In embodiments, the conversion inner space <NUM> is defined at least in part by the conversion inner sidewall <NUM> and a forward conversion ledge <NUM>. The forward conversion ledge <NUM> is positioned at the conversion front end <NUM> and may generally extend inwardly in the radial direction from the conversion inner sidewall <NUM> in the radial direction R. In some embodiments, the forward conversion ledge <NUM> may be oriented transverse to the longitudinal direction (i.e., the +/- z-direction as depicted) and may limit the insertion of the release housing <NUM> (<FIG>) and/or the connector housing <NUM> (<FIG>) into the conversion inner space <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, in some embodiments, the conversion retention member <NUM> extends rearwardly from the forward conversion ledge <NUM> into the conversion inner space <NUM>. For example, in the embodiment depicted in <FIG>, the conversion retention member <NUM> is a cantilever extending rearwardly from the forward conversion ledge <NUM>, however, it should be understood that this is merely an example.

In embodiments, the conversion retention member <NUM> intersects at the forward conversion ledge <NUM> at a transition intersection <NUM>. Without being bound by theory, the shape and structure of the transition intersection <NUM> impacts the movement of the conversion retention member <NUM> in the radial direction R, for example, under the application of force. While in the embodiment depicted in <FIG> the forward conversion ledge <NUM> and the conversion retention member <NUM> form a generally perpendicular transition intersection <NUM>, it should be understood that this is merely an example.

For example and referring to <FIG>, in some embodiments, at least a portion of the transition intersection <NUM> is transverse to the forward conversion ledge <NUM> and the conversion retention member <NUM>. In particular, in the embodiment depicted in <FIG>, the transition intersection <NUM> defines a fillet between the forward conversion ledge <NUM> and the conversion retention member <NUM>. By defining a fillet between the forward conversion ledge <NUM> and the conversion retention member <NUM>, stress concentration at the transition intersection <NUM> may be reduced. Further, by defining a fillet between the forward conversion ledge <NUM> and the conversion retention member <NUM>, the conversion retention member <NUM> may resist deflection in the radial direction R. As noted above, the conversion retention member <NUM> may deflect outwardly in the radial direction, for example, upon insertion of the connector housing <NUM> (<FIG>) and/or release housing <NUM> (<FIG>) into the conversion housing <NUM>. However, the conversion retention member <NUM> may generally retain the connector housing <NUM> (<FIG>) within the conversion housing <NUM>, and outward deflection of the conversion retention member <NUM> may inadvertently release the connector housing <NUM> from the conversion housing <NUM>. Accordingly, the shape of the transition intersection <NUM> may be selected to permit deflection of the conversion retention member <NUM> in the radial direction R to allow insertion of the connector housing <NUM> (<FIG>) and the release housing <NUM> (<FIG>) into the conversion housing <NUM>. However, the shape of the transition intersection <NUM> may also be selected to resist deflection of the conversion retention member <NUM> in the radial direction R to restrict inadvertent release of the connector housing <NUM>, as described in greater detail herein. In embodiments, a thickness of the conversion retention member <NUM> evaluated in the radial direction R may also be selected such that the conversion retention member <NUM> deflects in the radial direction R to allow insertion of the connector housing <NUM> (<FIG>) and the release housing <NUM> (<FIG>) into the conversion housing <NUM>. However, the thickness of the conversion retention member <NUM> may also be selected to resist deflection of the conversion retention member <NUM> in the radial direction R to restrict inadvertent release of the connector housing <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, an exploded view of the fiber optic connector assembly <NUM> and a section view of the fiber optic connector assembly <NUM> are depicted, respectively. When assembled, the connector housing <NUM> is inserted at least partially into the release housing <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. The release housing <NUM> and the connector housing <NUM> are inserted at least partially into the conversion housing <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, in embodiments, the conversion housing <NUM> may include a rearward conversion keying feature <NUM> that is configured to engage the outward release keying portion <NUM>. For example, in the embodiment depicted in <FIG>, the rearward conversion keying feature <NUM> defines opposing contact surfaces <NUM> that are configured to engage the contact surfaces <NUM> of the outward release keying portion <NUM> of the release housing <NUM>. In the embodiment depicted in <FIG>, the rearward conversion keying feature <NUM> is depicted as being a slot that receives the outward release keying portion <NUM>, however, it should be understood that this is merely an example. In embodiments, the rearward conversion keying feature <NUM> may include any suitable keying feature for interfacing with the outward release keying portion <NUM> of the release housing <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the connector housing <NUM> is generally inserted at least partially into the release housing <NUM>, and the release housing <NUM> and the connector housing <NUM> are at least partially inserted into the conversion housing <NUM>.

As noted above, the connector housing <NUM> may be rotationally aligned with respect to the release housing <NUM> via the connector keying portion <NUM> (<FIG>) of the connector housing <NUM> and the inward release keying portion <NUM> (<FIG>) of the release housing <NUM>. The release housing <NUM> is rotationally aligned with the conversion housing <NUM> via the outward release keying portion <NUM> (<FIG>) of the release housing <NUM> and the rearward conversion keying feature <NUM> (<FIG>) of the conversion housing <NUM> (<FIG>). In this way, the connector housing <NUM> is rotationally aligned with the release housing <NUM>, which is in turn rotationally aligned with the conversion housing <NUM>, such that the connector housing <NUM> is rotationally aligned with the conversion housing <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the conversion housing <NUM> defines a forward conversion keying feature <NUM>. The forward conversion keying feature <NUM> may cooperate with a slot <NUM> (<FIG>) of the coupling <NUM> as the conversion housing <NUM> is inserted into the coupling <NUM>. For example, the conversion housing <NUM> may be restricted from being inserted into the coupling <NUM> unless the forward conversion keying feature <NUM> is rotationally aligned with the slot <NUM> (<FIG>) of the coupling <NUM>. By rotationally aligning the conversion housing <NUM> with the coupling <NUM>, the connector housing <NUM> may be rotationally aligned with the coupling <NUM> (e.g., through the conversion housing <NUM> and the release housing <NUM>). By rotationally aligning the connector housing <NUM> with the coupling <NUM>, the ferrule <NUM> may be rotationally aligned with the coupling <NUM> such that the optical fiber or optical fibers extending through the ferrule <NUM> may be optically coupled to an optical fiber or optical fibers of an opposing ferrule positioned within the coupling <NUM>. In some embodiments, the conversion housing <NUM> may define a conversion guide <NUM> extending outward from the conversion housing <NUM>, where the conversion guide <NUM> is aligned with the forward conversion keying feature <NUM>. The conversion guide <NUM> may assist in providing a visual indication of the rotational position of the forward conversion keying feature <NUM> such that a user, such as a technician, may orient the forward conversion keying feature <NUM> with the slot <NUM> (<FIG>) of the coupling <NUM>.

In embodiments, the connector housing <NUM> defines a rotationally-discrete locking portion <NUM> on the outer surface <NUM> of the connector housing <NUM>. In some embodiments, the rotationally-discrete locking portion <NUM> defines a connector locking face <NUM> that, in the embodiment depicted in <FIG> faces rearwardly in the longitudinal direction (i.e., in the -z-direction as depicted). In embodiments, the conversion retention member <NUM> is positionable in an engaged position as shown in <FIG>. In the engaged position, the conversion retention member <NUM> restricts movement of the connector housing <NUM> with respect to the adapter assembly <NUM>, and more particularly the conversion housing <NUM>, in the longitudinal direction (e.g., in the +/- z-direction as depicted). For example, in the engaged position, the conversion retention member <NUM> may restrict movement of the connector housing <NUM> with respect to the conversion housing <NUM> in the -z-direction as depicted, thereby restricting withdrawal of the connector housing <NUM> from the conversion housing <NUM>. In particular and as shown in <FIG>, the forwardly-facing connector engagement face <NUM> of the conversion retention member <NUM> may engage the connector locking face <NUM> of the connector housing <NUM>, thereby restricting movement of the connector housing <NUM> in the -z-direction as depicted. In embodiments, the conversion retention member <NUM> may be positioned at least partially within the release slot <NUM> (<FIG>) of the release housing such that the forwardly-facing connector engagement face <NUM> of the conversion retention member <NUM> may access the connector housing <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, a section view of the fiber optic connector assembly <NUM> is depicted with the conversion retention member <NUM> in the engaged position and in a disengaged position. As shown in <FIG>, in the disengaged position, the connector housing <NUM> is movable with respect to the adapter assembly <NUM>, and more particularly the conversion housing <NUM>, in the longitudinal direction (i.e., in the -z-direction as depicted).

More particularly and referring to <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG> the conversion retention member <NUM> may be moved into the disengaged position by the release housing <NUM>. For example, in embodiments, the release housing <NUM> may be moved rearward in the longitudinal direction (i.e., in the -z-direction as depicted). As the release housing <NUM> moves rearward in the longitudinal direction (i.e., in the -z-direction as depicted), the release faces <NUM> of the release housing <NUM> may engage the forwardly-facing conversion release faces <NUM> of the conversion retention member <NUM>. In embodiments, the release housing <NUM> may be moved rearward in the longitudinal direction (i.e., in the -z-direction as depicted) by a user, such as a technician. In some embodiments, the boot <NUM> is coupled to the release housing <NUM>, and the release housing <NUM> can be moved rearward in the longitudinal direction (i.e., in the -z-direction as depicted) by moving the boot <NUM> rearward in the longitudinal direction.

As the release faces <NUM> of the release housing <NUM> engage the forwardly-facing conversion release faces <NUM> of the conversion retention member <NUM>, the release faces <NUM> move the conversion retention member <NUM> outward in the radial direction R. For example and as noted above, in some embodiments, the conversion release faces <NUM> of the conversion retention member <NUM> may be face inward in the radial direction R. Accordingly, as the release housing <NUM> moves rearward in the longitudinal direction (i.e., in the -z-direction as depicted), the rearward movement of the release housing <NUM> may resolve into an outwardly radial force acting on the conversion retention member <NUM>. Similarly, in embodiments in which the release faces <NUM> face outwardly in the radial direction R, as the release housing <NUM> moves rearward in the longitudinal direction (i.e., in the -z-direction as depicted), the rearward movement of the release housing <NUM> may resolve into an outwardly radial force acting on the conversion retention member <NUM>.

As the conversion retention member <NUM> moves outward in the radial direction R the forwardly-facing connector engagement face <NUM> from the conversion retention member <NUM> disengages the rotationally-discrete locking portion <NUM> of the connector housing <NUM>. With forwardly-facing connector engagement face <NUM> of the conversion retention member <NUM> disengaged from the rotationally-discrete locking portion <NUM> of the connector housing <NUM>, the connector housing <NUM> can be removed from the conversion housing <NUM>.

As such, the connector housing <NUM> can be disengaged from the conversion housing <NUM>, and accordingly the coupling <NUM>, through movement of the release housing <NUM> in the longitudinal direction (i.e., in the -z-direction as depicted). In this way, the connector housing <NUM> can be removed from the coupling <NUM> even when there is minimal distance between the connector housing <NUM> and other connector housings in the radial direction R. More particularly, while the conversion retention member <NUM> moves outward in the radial direction R to move from the engaged position to the disengaged position, this movement is generally within the conversion inner space <NUM>. As such, the connector housing <NUM> can be disengaged from the conversion housing <NUM>, and accordingly from the coupling <NUM>, without requiring movement of components external to the conversion housing <NUM> in the radial direction R. Because the connector housing <NUM> can be disengaged from the conversion housing <NUM>, and accordingly the coupling <NUM>, without requiring movement of components external to the conversion housing <NUM> in the radial direction R, couplings <NUM> can be positioned adjacent to one another so as to minimize the distance between adjacent connector housings <NUM>. In this way, closures <NUM> (<FIG>) may include couplings <NUM> that are positioned adjacent to one another so as to minimize the distance between adjacent connector housings <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, an isometric view of another release housing <NUM> is schematically depicted. Like the embodiment described above and depicted in <FIG>, the release housing <NUM> includes the release slot <NUM> and the one or more release faces <NUM>. However, in the embodiment depicted in <FIG>, the release housing <NUM> further includes a release retainer <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the release retainer <NUM> extends over at least a portion of the release slot <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, in embodiments, a side view of the release housing <NUM> and the conversion housing <NUM> is depicted. The conversion housing <NUM> includes a window <NUM> through which the release retainer <NUM> of the release housing <NUM> can be viewed, however, it should be understood that this merely an example, and conversion housings <NUM> according to the present disclosure may not have the window <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, in embodiments, the release retainer <NUM> may engage the conversion retention member <NUM> of the conversion housing <NUM> and may restrict movement of the conversion retention member <NUM> outward in the radial direction R when the release housing <NUM> is fully inserted into the conversion housing <NUM>. However, when the conversion housing <NUM> is moved rearward in the longitudinal direction (i.e., in the -z-direction as depicted), the release retainer <NUM> may disengage the conversion retention member <NUM>, thereby allowing the conversion retention member <NUM> to move to the disengaged position as shown in <FIG>. Accordingly, the release retainer <NUM>, in embodiments, may restrict inadvertent movement of the conversion retention member <NUM> while the release housing <NUM> is fully inserted into the conversion housing <NUM>, while allowing the conversion retention member <NUM> to move to the disengaged position as the conversion housing <NUM> is moved rearward in the longitudinal direction (i.e., in the -z-direction as depicted).

Accordingly, embodiments described herein are generally directed to fiber optic connector assemblies including a connector housing and an adapter assembly including a conversion housing and a release housing. The conversion housing may generally permit the connector housing to be engaged with a dissimilar coupling, for example of a closure. The connector housing may be selectively coupled to, and may be releasable from the conversion housing via the release housing, thereby allowing the connector housing to be selectively coupled to and released from the dissimilar coupling and/or closure.

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.

Claim 1:
A fiber optic connector assembly (<NUM>) comprising:
a connector housing (<NUM>) defining a locking portion (<NUM>) defined on an outer surface (<NUM>) of the connector housing;
an adapter assembly (<NUM>) selectively coupled to the connector housing, the adapter assembly comprising:
a conversion housing (<NUM>) extending around the connector housing and defining a conversion front end (<NUM>) and a conversion retention member (<NUM>) that is positionable between an engaged position, in which the conversion retention member restricts movement of the connector housing with respect to the adapter assembly in an axial direction, and a disengaged position, in which the connector housing is movable with respect to the adapter assembly in the axial direction; and
a release housing (<NUM>) positioned between the conversion housing (<NUM>) and the connector housing (<NUM>), the release housing defining a release front end (<NUM>) positionable at least partially within the conversion housing, and a release face (<NUM>) selectively engageable with the conversion retention member (<NUM>) and configured to move the conversion retention member from the engaged position to the disengaged position; and
wherein the locking portion (<NUM>) has a limited width-wise extend along the outer surface (<NUM>) of the connector housing (<NUM>) in the circumferential direction;
characterised in that
the conversion retention member defines a rearwardly-facing ramp (<NUM>) opposite a forwardly-facing connector engagement face (<NUM>) that is structurally configured to engage an engagement face of the connector housing (<NUM>).