Patent ID: 12235505

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference will now be made in detail to exemplary aspects of the present disclosure that are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts.

In general, media segments connect equipment of the communications network. Non-limiting examples of media segments include optical cables, electrical cables, and hybrid cables. This disclosure will focus on optical media segments. The media segments may be terminated with optical plug connectors, media converters, or other optical termination components.

FIG.1is a schematic diagram of one example connection system100including a connector assembly (e.g., optical adapters, electrical sockets, wireless readers, etc.)110at which communications signals from a first media segment (e.g., an optical fiber, an electrical conductor, a wireless transceiver, etc.)122pass to another media segment132. In some implementations, the media segments122,132are terminated by connector arrangements120,130, respectively. The example connector assembly110connects segments of optical communications media in an optical network. In other implementations, however, the connector assembly110can connect electrical segments, wireless segments, or some combination thereof.

The connector assembly110includes a fiber optic adapter defining at least one connection opening111having a first port end112and a second port end114. A sleeve (e.g., a split sleeve)103is arranged within the connection opening111of the adapter110between the first and second port ends112,114. Each port end112,114is configured to receive a connector arrangement120. Each fiber connector arrangement120,130includes a ferrule124,134through which optical signals from the optical fiber122,132, respectively, pass. The ferrules124,134are held and aligned by a sleeve103to allow optical signals to pass between the ferrules124,134. The aligned ferrules124,134of the connector arrangements120,130create an optical path along which the communication signals may be carried.

In accordance with aspects of the disclosure, the communications network is coupled to or incorporates a data management system that provides physical layer information (PLI) functionality as well as physical layer management (PLM) functionality. As the term is used herein, “PLI functionality” refers to the ability of a physical component or system to identify or otherwise associate physical layer information with some or all of the physical components used to implement the physical layer of the communications network. As the term is used herein, “PLM functionality” refers to the ability of a component or system to manipulate or to enable others to manipulate the physical components used to implement the physical layer of the communications network (e.g., to track what is connected to each component, to trace connections that are made using the components, or to provide visual indications to a user at a selected component).

As the term is used herein, “physical layer information” refers to information about the identity, attributes, and/or status of the physical components used to implement the physical layer of the communications network. Physical layer information of the communications network can include media information, device information, and location information. Media information refers to physical layer information pertaining to cables, plugs, connectors, and other such physical media. Non-limiting examples of media information include a part number, a serial number, a plug type, a conductor type, a cable length, cable polarity, a cable pass-through capacity, a date of manufacture, a manufacturing lot number, the color or shape of the plug connector, an insertion count, and testing or performance information. Device information refers to physical layer information pertaining to the communications panels, inter-networking devices, media converters, computers, servers, wall outlets, and other physical communications devices to which the media segments attach. Location information refers to physical layer information pertaining to a physical layout of a building or buildings in which the network is deployed.

In accordance with some aspects, one or more of the components (e.g., media segments, equipment, etc.) of the communications network are configured to store physical layer information pertaining to the component as will be disclosed in more detail herein. Some components include media reading interfaces that are configured to read stored physical layer information from the components. The physical layer information obtained by the media reading interface may be communicated over the network for processing and/or storage.

For example, the connector assembly110ofFIG.1can be configured to collect physical layer information from the connector arrangements120,130terminating one or more of the media segments122,132. In some implementations, the first connector arrangement120may include a storage device125that is configured to store physical layer information pertaining to the segment of physical communications media122and/or to the first connector arrangement120. In certain implementations, the connector arrangement130also includes a storage device135that is configured to store information pertaining to the second connector arrangement130and/or to the second optic cable132terminated thereby.

In one implementation, each of the storage devices125,135is implemented using an EEPROM (e.g., a PCB surface-mount EEPROM). In other implementations, the storage devices125,135are implemented using other non-volatile memory device. Each storage device125,135is arranged and configured so that it does not interfere or interact with the communications signals communicated over the media segments122,132.

In accordance with some aspects, the adapter110is coupled to at least a first media reading interface116. In certain implementations, the adapter110also is coupled to at least a second media interface118. In certain implementations, the adapter110is coupled to multiple media reading interfaces. In an example, the adapter110includes a media reading interface for each port end defined by the adapter110. In another example, the adapter110includes a media reading interface for each connection opening111defined by the adapter110. In other implementations, the adapter110can include any desired number of media reading interfaces116,118.

In some implementations, at least the first media reading interface116is mounted to a printed circuit board115. In some implementations, the printed circuit board115also can include the second media reading interface118. The printed circuit board115of the adapter110can be communicatively connected to one or more programmable processors and/or to one or more network interfaces. The network interface may be configured to send the physical layer information to a physical layer data management network. Examples of data management networks can be found in U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/760,816, filed Feb. 5, 2013, and titled “Systems and Methods for Associating Location Information with a Communication Sub-Assembly Housed within a Communication Assembly,” the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference.

When the first connector arrangement120is received in the first port end112of the adapter110, the first media reading interface116is configured to enable reading (e.g., by an electronic processor) of the information stored in the storage device125. The information read from the first connector arrangement120can be transferred through the printed circuit board115to the physical layer data management network. When the second connector arrangement130is received in the second port end114of the adapter110, the second media reading interface118is configured to enable reading (e.g., by an electronic processor) of the information stored in the storage device135. The information read from the second connector arrangement130can be transferred through the printed circuit board115or another circuit board to the physical layer data management network.

In some such implementations, the storage devices125,135and the media reading interfaces116,118each include at least three (3) leads—a power lead, a ground lead, and a data lead. The three leads of the storage devices125,135come into electrical contact with three (3) corresponding leads of the media reading interfaces116,118when the corresponding media segment is inserted in the corresponding port. In other example implementations, a two-line interface is used with a simple charge pump. In still other implementations, additional leads can be provided (e.g., for potential future applications). Accordingly, the storage devices125,135and the media reading interfaces116,118may each include four (4) leads, five (5) leads, six (6) leads, etc.

FIGS.2-5illustrate one example adapter assembly200including an example optical adapter210and an example contact assembly230suitable for mounting to the optical adapter210as a media reading interface. The adapter assembly200has a first port end201, a second port end202, a first mounting end203, a second mounting end204, a first side205, and a second side206. The optical adapter210defines a port212for receiving an optical connector (e.g., an MPO-type connector, an LC-type connector, an SC-type connector, and LX.5-type connector, etc.) at each of the port ends201,202. The optical adapter210also defines a mounting recess215sized and shaped to receive the contact assembly230.

In some implementations, multiple contact assemblies230can be mounted to the optical adapter210. For example, as shown inFIG.3, a first contact assembly230A can be mounted and a second contact assembly230B can be mounted to the optical adapter210. In the example shown, the first contact assembly230A is mounted at a mounting recess215defined at the first mounting end203of the adapter assembly200and the second contact assembly230B is mounted at a mounting recess defined at the second mounting end204of the adapter assembly200.

In certain implementations, each mounting recess215has a recessed surface on which the respective contact assembly230can seat. For example, each contact assembly230includes a plurality of contact members235coupled together at a body231, which seats on the recessed surface (seeFIG.5). The mounting recess215also defines a first aperture217through the recessed surface that leads to an interior of the adapter body211, which is accessible through the ports212(FIG.5). Portions of the contacts235extend through the first aperture217towards the interior of the adapter body211. A second aperture218also is defined in the recessed surface spaced from the first aperture217(FIG.3). The second aperture218is sized to receive a peg232of the contact assembly body231to help hold the contact assembly230within the mounting recess215(seeFIG.5).

FIGS.6-10illustrate one example optical adapter210suitable for use in the adapter assembly200ofFIGS.2-5. The optical adapter210includes an adapter body211defining first and second ports212at opposite ends201,202of the adapter body211. In other implementations, however, the optical adapter body211may define a greater number of ports212at one or both ends201,202of the adapter body211. The optical adapter210shown includes an MPO-type adapter. In other implementations, however, the optical adapter210can be any desired type of optical adapter.

Each port212of the optical adapter body211is configured to receive an optical plug (e.g., see optical plug180ofFIG.17) along an insertion axis I (FIG.10). In some implementations, the adapter body211includes latching arms213at each port212that are configured to latch around the received optical plug to hold the plug to the port212. In certain implementations, each port212defines a key area212A sized and shaped to accommodate a keying feature of the optical plug. In certain implementations, the optical adapter body211also includes shroud walls214that extend outwardly from the port ends201,202of the adapter body211at opposite sides205,206of the adapter body211. The shroud walls214aid in protecting the port212and/or the connection between the adapter210and the plug. In the example shown, the shroud walls214define a concave curve facing towards the port212.

As discussed above, the adapter body211also defines one or more mounting recesses215each having a recessed surface, a first aperture217, and a second aperture218. The body231and contacts235of each contact assembly230fit within a mounting recess215. In certain implementations, an example mounting recess215defines a first portion215asized to accommodate the body231of the contact assembly230and a second portion215bsized to accommodate the contacts235of the contact assembly230(seeFIG.9). In certain implementations, ribs216(FIGS.6and7) can be provided at one or both ends of the mounting recess215to aid in maintaining separation of the ends of the contacts235(e.g., seeFIG.4).

In certain implementations, the adapter body211includes one or more alignment features that aid in positioning and/or orienting the adapter body211on a circuit board, adapter block assembly, tray, drawer, or other such structure. In some implementations, the adapter body211includes mounting pegs219extending from the first and second mounting ends203,204. In certain implementations, the mounting pegs219extend outwardly from areas around the mounting recesses215. In the example shown, four mounting pegs219extend outwardly from the mounting ends203,204of the adapter body211. In other implementations, a greater or fewer number of mounting pegs219can be utilized.

In some implementations, an alignment peg220also can extend outwardly from one or both mounting ends203,204of the adapter body211. In the example shown, each mounting end203,204is associated with a single alignment peg220. In other implementations, however, additional mounting pegs220can be provided. In the example shown, the alignment peg220at the first mounting end203is disposed at an opposite side205,206of the adapter body211from the alignment peg220at the second mounting end204. In certain implementations, the adapter body211defines cutout regions or slots221at the sides205,206of the adapter body211. In certain implementations, the cutout regions221can aid in positioning the adapter body211at a mounting structure.

FIGS.11-14illustrate an example contact assembly230suitable for use in the adapter assembly200ofFIGS.2-5. As discussed above, the contact assembly includes a body231holding one or more contact members235. The body231includes an alignment peg232that is configured to fit into the adapter aperture218to secure the contact assembly230to the optical adapter210. The body231also defines a recessed side234that forms shoulders233. A longer section of the contact members235extends from the recessed side234of the body231between the shoulders233and a shorter section of the contact members235extends from an opposite side of the body231.

The shorter section of each contact member235defines a first contact surface236. In certain implementations, the first contact surface236is defined by a bump or peak formed in the shorter section (seeFIG.11). The longer section of each contact member235defines a second contact surface238and a third contact surface239. In certain implementations, the second and third contact surfaces238,239are defined by bumps or peaks formed in the longer section (seeFIG.12). In the example shown, the second contact surfaces238curve in an opposite direction from the first and third contact surfaces236,239.

In certain implementations, the longer sections also include extensions237that extend between the body231and the second contact surfaces238. The longer sections of the contact members235can deflect along the extensions237. For example, the second and third contact surfaces238,239can deflect relative to the first contact surfaces236. In some implementations, the contact members235deflect along parallel paths. In certain implementations, the contact members235do not deflect laterally towards each other. In some implementations, the contact members235extend generally parallel to each other. In other implementations, however, portions of the contact members235can be angled to extend towards and/or away from each other. For example, as shown inFIG.13, the extensions237can be angled towards each other so that contact members235are disposed closer to each other at the second contact surfaces238than at the recessed section234of the body231. The contact members235also can be angled outwardly so that the third contact surfaces239are spaced farther apart than the second contact surfaces238.

As shown inFIG.15, contact assemblies230can be manufactured using carrier strip arrangement240. Each carrier strip arrangement240defines sequencing holes242at opposite sides. The sequencing holes242can be engaged by a machine (e.g., by as spiked wheel, etc.) to advance the carrier strip arrangement240in a feed direction F. Material is removed from the carrier strip240to form contact members235extending between two strips241. For example, material can be removed by cutting, stamping, laser cutting, etching, or any other removal process. The contact members235of a first contact assembly230are spaced along the strips241in the feed direction F. During the manufacturing process, a body231is formed around the contact members235of each contact assembly230. For example, in certain implementations, the contact members235of each contact assembly230are overmolded together. In other implementations, the contact members235can be sandwiched between a two-piece body231.

FIGS.16-21illustrate an example adapter block assembly250that holds one or more adapter assemblies200. The adapter block assembly250has a first end251, a second end252, a top253, a bottom254, a first side255, and a second side256. The first and second ends251,252provide access to the ports212of the adapter assemblies200. The sides255,256of the adapter block assembly250are configured to mount the adapter block assembly250to a tray, blade, drawer, or other mounting structure (hereinafter “tray”). For example, the sides255,256of the adapter block assembly250can include a retention member259.

In certain implementations, labeling258can be provided at the first and/or second ends251,252. For example, a label258can be provided at each port212. In certain implementations, a light indicator257also can be provided at the first and/or second ends251,252. In some implementations, a single light indicator257can be provided at one or both ends251,252to identify the adapter block assembly. In other implementations, each port212may be associated with a respective light indicator257to identify the port212(e.g., for tracing or marking purposes).

The adapter block assembly250includes one or more adapter assemblies200mounted to a circuit board arrangement260within a housing270. In the example shown inFIG.17, the housing270includes a two-piece housing270A,270B that defines an interior in which to hold the adapter assemblies200and circuit boards260. In other implementations, the housing270can be formed of greater or fewer pieces and may or may not fully surround the adapter assemblies200and circuit boards260. In the example shown, the housing270hold eight adapter assemblies200. In other implementations, the housing270may hold a greater or lesser number of adapter assemblies200.

The circuit board arrangement260includes a controller (e.g., processor, microprocessor, etc.) to manage obtaining information from the contact assemblies230at each adapter block port.212. The circuit board arrangement260also includes a circuit board connector265(FIG.19) that is configured to connect the controller to a data management network as will be described in more detail herein. In some implementations, the circuit board arrangement260includes a first circuit board260A that extends over the first mounting end203of the adapter assemblies200. The circuit board260A includes contact pads262that align with the first and third contact surfaces236,239of the contact assemblies230mounted to the first mounting ends203of the adapter assemblies200. The first circuit board260A also may include the controller. The circuit board connector265may extend downwardly from the circuit board260A, past the adapter assemblies200, and towards the bottom254of the housing270.

In some implementations, the adapter assemblies200include contact assemblies230mounted to both mounting ends203,204of the adapter assemblies200. In such implementations, the circuit board arrangement260also includes at least a second circuit board260B that extends over the second mounting end204of one or more of the adapter assemblies200. The second circuit board260B also includes contact pads262that align with the first and third contact surfaces236,239of the contact assemblies230mounted to the second mounting ends204of the one or more adapter assemblies200. In certain implementations, the second circuit board260B electrically connects to the first circuit board260A. In other implementations, the second circuit board260B electrically connects to the electrical circuit or component to which the first circuit board260A connects.

In some implementations, the second circuit board260B extends across all of the adapter assemblies200in the adapter block assembly250. In other implementations, however, the second circuit board260B extends across the second mounting ends204of only some of the adapter assemblies200. In some such implementations, a third circuit board260C may extend across the second mounting ends204of a remainder of the adapter assemblies200. The third circuit board260C also includes contact pads262that align with the first and third contact surfaces236,239of the contact assemblies230mounted to the second mounting ends204of the remainder of the adapter assemblies200.

In certain implementations, the third circuit board260C is aligned with and spaced from the second circuit board260B. For example, the circuit board connector265of the first circuit board260A may be positioned to extend downwardly between the second and third circuit boards260B,260C (seeFIG.17). In certain implementations, the third circuit board260C electrically connects to the first circuit board260A. In other implementations, the third circuit board260C electrically connects to the electrical circuit or component to which the first circuit board260A connects.

In some implementations, the housing270includes a first housing piece270A and a second housing piece270B that are configured to fit together to form the housing270. In the example shown inFIG.17, the first housing piece270A is identical to the second housing piece270B. In certain implementations, each of the housing pieces270A,270B defines one of the first and second ends251,252of the adapter block assembly250; and the housing pieces270A,270B cooperate to define the top253, bottom254, first side255, and second side256. In other implementations, the housing270can be divided differently so that each housing piece270A,270B can define a complete side255,256, a complete top253or bottom254, or partials of one or more sides.

Each housing piece270A,270B includes a body271defining openings272aligned with the ports212of the adapter assemblies200. In some implementations, the adapter assemblies200are evenly spaced within the housing270and, accordingly, the openings272are evenly spaced along the first and second ends251,252of the housing270. In other implementations, the adapter assemblies200and, hence, the openings272can be separated into two or more groups. In the example shown, the openings272of the housing270are grouped in pairs along the length L of the housing270(FIG.18).

Each housing piece270A,270B is configured to couple to the other housing piece270A,270B. For example, in some implementations, each housing piece270A,270B includes a peg, latch, or other fastener273that aligns with a corresponding opening274on the other housing piece270A,270B at inwardly facing edges of the housing pieces270A,270B. In the example shown, each housing piece270A,270B includes a peg273disposed at one side255,256of the housing piece270A,270B and defines a hole274at the opposite side255,256of the housing piece270A,270B. The peg273is configured to friction-fit, snap-fit, be adhesively fixed, be welded, or be otherwise secured within the hole274.

In certain implementations, one or more alignment arrangements275can be disposed at the inwardly facing edges of the housing pieces270A,270B. For example, the alignment arrangements275can include smaller pegs275aand/or holes275bthat align with pegs and holes of the other piece270A,270B. In certain implementations, each alignment arrangement275includes one peg275aand one hole275bdisposed laterally adjacent each other. In other implementations, each alignment arrangement275includes only one or more pegs275aor only one or more holes275b.

In some implementations, the housing pieces270A,270B cooperate to define a connector egress276through which the circuit board connector265can extend partially out of the housing270. In some implementations, the connector egress276can be disposed at an inwardly recessed location relative to the bottom254of the adapter block assembly250. The connector egress276is configured to inhibit contaminants (e.g., dust) from entering the housing270. In certain implementations, one or more alignment arrangements275can be provided on the connector egress276(seeFIG.17).

In some implementations, each housing piece270A,270B is configured to secure the circuit boards260within the interior of the housing270. In some implementations, each housing piece270A,270B defines guides277in which the circuit boards260can be inserted to secure the circuit boards260within the housing270. In the example shown inFIG.17, guides277are provided at opposite sides of internal sidewalls of each housing piece270A,270B. For example, the first circuit board260A can be inserted opposing guides277disposed at a top of each housing piece270A,270B. One end of the second circuit board260B can be inserted into the guide277provided at the second side256of the housing piece270A,270B and one end of the third circuit board260C can be inserted into the guide277provided at the first side255of the housing piece270A,270B.

In some implementations, the adapter block assembly250is configured to be mounted to a tray. For example, one or more alignment and/or securement structures can be provided at exterior surfaces of the adapter block assembly250. In the example shown inFIG.17, each housing piece270A,270B includes a ramped structure278and a tab structure279that extend outwardly from opposite sides255,256of the housing body271. When the housing pieces270A,270B are assembled, the retention member259is disposed between two ramped structures278and two tab structures279.

Referring toFIGS.19-21, inserting optical plug connectors180into the ports212of the adapter block assembly250provides a connection between storage182provided on the optical plug connectors180and the data network via the contact assemblies230of the adapter assemblies200, the circuit boards260, and the electrical circuit to which the circuit boards260couple. Each optical plug connector180includes a signal conveying section (e.g., one or more optical fibers, one or more electrical connectors, etc.)181. At least some of the optical plug connectors180includes memory (e.g., an EEPROM mounted to a circuit board chip)182disposed on the optical plug connector180. In one example, the memory182is disposed in a keying region of the optical plug connector180.

FIG.20illustrates a first optical plug connector180A fully inserted into one port of one of the adapter assemblies200of the adapter block assembly250and a second optical plug connector180B partially inserted into an opposing port of the adapter assembly200. The memory182of the first optical plug connector180A aligns with the second contact surfaces238of one of the contact assemblies230mounted to the adapter assembly200. Physical contact between the first plug connector180A (e.g., the memory182) and the second contact surfaces238deflects the extensions237of the contact assembly230so that the third contact surfaces239touch or swipe along the contact pads262of the first circuit board260A of the adapter block assembly250. Accordingly, information (e.g., PLI) can be communicated from the memory182to a data management network (e.g., through the contact assembly230, through the circuit board260A, through the circuit board connector265, and through the electrical circuit). In other implementations, the data management network and/or a local processor can detect the closing of the circuit (i.e., when the third contact surfaces239touch or swipe along the contact pads262) to detect the presence of the plug connector180A within the port212.

The second optical plug connector180B has only been partially inserted into the respective port212. The second optical plug connector180B is not yet touching the second contact surfaces238of the other contact assembly230mounted to the adapter assembly200. Because the plug connector180B is not biasing the second contact surfaces238towards the exterior of adapter assembly200, the third contact surfaces239of the other contact assembly230are not touching the contact pads262on the second circuit board260B. Accordingly, the data management network and/or a local processor can determine that the circuit is open and, thereby, determine that the plug connector180B is not yet present within the port212(i.e., at least not sufficiently present to enable reading of data stored in memory182of the second plug connector180B).

Additional information about how physical layer information can be read from the plug connectors by the contact assemblies at adapters can be found in U.S. Publication No. 2011-0262077, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,690,593 the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference.

FIGS.22-25illustrate one example adapter assembly300including an example optical adapter310to which one or more contact assemblies230can be mounted. The adapter assembly300has a first port end301, a second port end302, a first mounting end303, a second mounting end304, a first side305, and a second side306. The optical adapter310defines a port312for receiving an optical connector (e.g., an MPO-type connector, an LC-type connector, an SC-type connector, and LX.5-type connector, etc.) at each of the port ends301,302. In the example shown, the optical adapter310includes an MPO-type optical adapter. The optical adapter310also defines a mounting recess315sized and shaped to receive the contact assembly230.

In some implementations, multiple contact assemblies230can be mounted to the optical adapter310. For example, as shown inFIG.23, a first contact assembly230A and a second contact assembly230B can be mounted to the optical adapter310. In the example shown, the first contact assembly230A is mounted at a mounting recess315defined at the first mounting end303of the adapter assembly300and the second contact assembly230B is mounted at a mounting recess315defined at the second mounting end304of the adapter assembly300.

In certain implementations, each mounting recess315has a recessed surface on which the body231of the respective contact assembly230can seat. The mounting recess315also defines a first aperture317through the recessed surface that leads to an interior of the adapter body311, which is accessible through the ports312. Portions of the contacts235extend through the first aperture317towards the interior of the adapter body311(FIG.25). In certain implementations, a second aperture318(FIG.23) also is defined in the recessed surface spaced from the first aperture317. The second aperture318can be sized to receive a peg232of the contact assembly body231to help hold the contact assembly230within the mounting recess315.

In some implementations, the adapter310is formed from multiple pieces. In the example shown inFIG.23, the adapter310is formed from a first piece310A and a second piece310B that fit together to form the adapter310. In other implementations, the adapter310can be formed from a greater number of pieces. In some implementations, the first and second pieces310A,310B are identically formed. In other implementations, the adapter pieces310A,310B have different shapes or sizes that fit together to form the adapter310.

As shown inFIG.23, each adapter piece310A,310B includes a body311extending from an open end to the port312. The open ends of the adapter pieces310A,310B fit together to form the adapter310. In some implementations, the adapter pieces310A,310B include attachment features that enable the adapter pieces310A,310B to fit together. For example, in some implementations, edges of the open end of each body311include attachment pegs327and openings328configured to receive the attachment pegs327of the opposing adapter body311. In other implementations, the open ends can be glued, welded, soldered, or otherwise fixed together.

In certain implementations, the second adapter piece310B is configured to be rotated 180° about the port insertion axis relative to the first adapter piece310A. The body311includes a flange323extending outwardly from the open end of the body311at one of the mounting ends303,304of the adapter310. The body311also defines a cutout region324extending inwardly from the open end towards the port312at an opposite one of the mounting ends303,304. The flange323of the first adapter piece310A is sized to fit within the cutout region324of the second adapter piece310B and the flange323of the second adapter piece310B is sized to fit within the cutout region324of the first adapter piece310A. The flange323defines contoured sides326that fit (e.g., slide) within guides325defined in sides of the cutout region324.

The contact assemblies230A,230B fit into mounting recesses315defined in the flanges323and bodies311of the adapter pieces310A,310B. In the example shown inFIG.23, a first aperture317extends through the mounting recess315to an interior of the adapter body311and a second aperture318extends through the mounting recess315and through the flange323(seeFIG.23). Pegs232of the contact assembly body231may fit in the second apertures318. Portions of the contact members235may extend through the first apertures317(seeFIG.25). Ribs316are provided at opposite ends of the mounting recess315to separate contact members235of the contact assembly230mounted thereat (seeFIG.22).

FIGS.26-33illustrate one example structure suitable for use as housing piece310A,310B ofFIGS.22-25. Each structure is configured to receive an optical plug (e.g., see optical plug180ofFIG.34) along an insertion axis of the respective port312. In some implementations, the adapter body311includes latching arms313at the port312that are configured to latch around the received optical plug180to hold the plug at the port312. In certain implementations, each port312defines a key area312A (FIG.28) sized and shaped to accommodate a keying feature of the optical plug180. In certain implementations, the optical adapter body311also includes shroud walls314that extend outwardly from the port312at opposite sides305,306of the adapter body311. The shroud walls314aid in protecting the port312and/or the connection between the adapter310and the plug180. In the example shown, the shroud walls314define a concave curve facing towards the port312.

In certain implementations, the adapter body311includes one or more alignment features that aid in positioning and/or orienting the adapter body311on a circuit board, adapter block assembly, or tray. In some implementations, the adapter body311includes mounting pegs319extending from the first and second mounting ends303,304. In certain implementations, the mounting pegs319extend outwardly from areas around the mounting recesses315. In the example shown, two mounting pegs319extend outwardly from the mounting ends303,304of the adapter body311. In other implementations, a greater or fewer number of mounting pegs319can be utilized. In some implementations, an alignment peg320also can extend outwardly from one or both mounting ends303,304of the adapter body311. In the example shown, each structure includes a single alignment peg320. In other implementations, however, additional alignment pegs320can be provided.

FIGS.34-35illustrate an example adapter block assembly350that holds one or more adapter assemblies300. First and second ends of the adapter block assembly350provide access to the ports312of the adapter assemblies300. Optical plug connectors180can be inserted through the ends of the adapter block assembly350and into the ports312. In certain implementations, labeling can be provided at each port312. In certain implementations, a light indicator also can be provided at each port312. Sides of the adapter block assembly350are configured to mount the adapter block assembly350to a tray.

The adapter block assembly350includes one or more adapter assemblies300mounted to a circuit board arrangement360within a housing370. The pieces310A,310B of the adapter assemblies300are shown exploded inFIG.34. However, the pieces310A,310B are assembled together and coupled to the circuit board arrangement360when disposed within the housing370. In the example shown inFIG.34, the housing370includes a two-piece housing370A,370B that defines an interior in which to hold the adapter assemblies300and circuit board arrangement360. In other implementations, the housing370can be formed of greater or fewer pieces. In the example shown, the housing pieces370A,370B are substantially identical to the housing pieces270A,270B ofFIG.17.

The circuit board arrangement360includes a controller that manages obtaining information from the contact assemblies230of the adapter assemblies300. In some implementations, the circuit board arrangement360includes a first circuit board360A that extends over the first mounting end303of the adapter assemblies300. The circuit board360A includes contact pads that align with the first and third contact surfaces236,239of the contact assemblies230mounted to the first mounting ends303of the adapter assemblies300. In certain implementations, the first circuit board360A includes the controller. The circuit board360A also includes a circuit board connector that extends from the circuit board360A, past the adapter assemblies300, towards the bottom of the adapter block assembly350. The circuit board connector is configured to couple to an electrical circuit or component to electrically couple the contact assemblies230to a data management network as will be described in more detail herein.

In some implementations, the adapter assemblies300include contact assemblies230mounted to both mounting ends303,304of the adapter assemblies300. In such implementations, the circuit board arrangement360also includes at least a second circuit board360B that extends over the second mounting end304of one or more of the adapter assemblies300. In certain implementations, the circuit board arrangement360also includes a third circuit board360C that is positioned parallel to the first circuit board360A and laterally spaced from the second circuit board360B. The second and third circuit boards360B,360C also connect to the electrical circuit or component to electrically couple contact assemblies230at the second and third circuit boards360B,360C to the data management network.

FIG.35illustrates part of a first optical plug connector180A fully inserted into one port of one of the adapter assemblies300of the adapter block assembly350and part of a second optical plug connector180B partially inserted into an opposing port of the adapter assembly300. For ease in viewing, internal components of the plug connectors180A,180B (e.g., the ferrules) are not shown. The memory182of the first optical plug connector180A aligns with the second contact surfaces238of one of the contact assemblies230mounted to the adapter assembly300. Physical contact between the first plug connector180A (e.g., the memory182) and the second contact surfaces238deflects the extensions237of the contact assembly230so that the third contact surfaces239touch or swipe along the contact pads of the first circuit board360A of the adapter block assembly350. Accordingly, information (e.g., present detection information and/or PLI) can be communicated from the memory182to a data management network.

The second optical plug connector180B has only been partially inserted into the respective port312. The second optical plug connector180B is not yet touching the second contact surfaces238of the other contact assembly230mounted to the adapter assembly300. Because the plug connector180B is not biasing the second contact surfaces238towards the exterior of adapter assembly300, the third contact surfaces239of the other contact assembly230are not touching the contact pads362on the second circuit board360B. Accordingly, the data management network and/or a local processor can determine that the circuit is open and, thereby, determine that the plug connector180B is not yet present within the port312(i.e., at least not sufficiently present to enable reading of data stored in memory182of the second plug connector180B).

FIGS.36and37illustrate mounting one of the adapter block assemblies250,350to an example tray400. Other example trays400′,610,800are illustrated inFIGS.44,48, and56and discussed herein. Information about how such trays (e.g., trays400,400′,600,1100) can be moveably mounted within a chassis or rack and how such an arrangement can be used within a telecommunications system can be found in U.S. application Ser. No. 14/169,941, filed Jan. 31, 2014, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,128,262 and titled “Slidable Telecommunications Tray with Cable Slack Management,” the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference. Another system including trays on which the adapter blocks and cassettes disclosed herein can be mounted is disclosed in U.S. application Ser. No. 13/925,375, filed Jun. 24, 2013, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,195,021 and titled “Slidable Fiber Optic Connection Module with Cable Slack Management,” the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference.

The tray400is configured to receive at least one adapter block assembly250,350. In some implementations, the tray400also is configured to manage optical fibers/cables routed to the ports212,312of the adapter block assemblies250,350. In the example shown inFIG.36, the tray400includes cross-members403extending between two side rails401,402. A mounting rail404extends between the cross-members403. In some implementations, latching fingers406extend upwardly from the mounting rail404. The latching fingers406are configured to engage the adapter block assembly250,350to further secure the adapter block assembly250,350to the tray400. In certain implementations, two latching fingers406face in opposite directions towards the side rails401,402. In other implementations, another type of adapter block assembly securement structure can be disposed at the mounting rail404.

Mounting structures405are provided at the inner sides of the side rails401,402. In certain implementations, the mounting structures405are laterally aligned. The mounting structures405are configured to receive the retention members259of the adapter block assemblies250,350. For example, the mounting structures405receive the retention members259extending outwardly from the sides255,256of the adapter block assemblies250,350. In an example, each mounting structures405defines a T-shaped cavity having an open top through which one of the retention members259can slide. Each mounting structures405also includes a shelf on which the retention member259can seat.

In certain implementations, the tray400is moveable (e.g., slideable, pivotal, etc.) relative to a frame, rack, cabinet, or other mounting structure. For example, exterior surfaces of the side rails401,402can include guides that interact with guides on the holding structure. In certain implementations, the tray400includes cable management guides420that form routing paths for optical fibers/cables routed onto the tray400. The management guides420may aid in managing the optical fibers/cables during movement of the tray400.

In some implementations, the tray400provides an electrical connection between the adapter block assemblies250,350and a data management network. In some implementations, an electrical circuit (e.g., a second circuit board410) is mounted to the mounting rail404. For example, the mounting rail404and/or one or more of the cross-members403can define a pocket or channel407sized to fit the circuit board410(e.g., seeFIG.36). The circuit board410includes connectors (e.g., pin receptacles) configured to receive the circuit board connectors265of the printed circuit boards260,360within the adapter block assemblies250,350. In some implementations, the circuit board410extends over the mounting rail404and over at least part of one of the cross-members403towards an aperture in the second side rail402through which the circuit board410can connect to a chassis electrical circuit (e.g., backplane, cable, etc.).

In other implementations, an electrical cable (e.g., a flexible cable) or other circuit can extend from the chassis electrical circuit, through the aperture in the second side rail402, extend across at least part of the cross-members403, and connect (e.g., via connector415) to the second circuit board410. A cover408can be positioned over the cross-member channel407to protect the flex circuit. In an example, the cover408can be latched (e.g., using latches409) other otherwise secured to the cross-member403. In certain implementations, the chassis electrical circuit includes a local processor to manage the data obtained from the adapter block assemblies250,350. In other implementations, the chassis electrical circuit includes a data port through which the data can be carried to a data management network.

FIGS.38-48illustrate an example cassette500configured to optically couple together first cables532and second cables534. In some implementations, at least of the first cables532and the second cables534are multi-fiber (e.g., MPO-type) cables. In certain implementations, both the first cables532and the second cables534are multi-fiber cables. In other implementations, the second cables534may include single-fiber cables. In some implementations, the cassette500couples a number of first cables532to a greater number of second cables534. In the example shown, the cassette500couples one first cable532to the second cables534. In other example, the cassette500can couple two first cables532to three second cables534. In other implementations, each first cable523can be coupled to any desired number of second cables534.

The cassette500includes a cassette body510having a first port end501, a second port end502, a mounting end503, a cover end504, a first side505, and a second side506. The first cables532are configured to plug into ports at the first port end501and the second cables534are configured to plug into ports at the second port end502. In certain implementations, the ports at the first and second port ends501,502are defined by adapter assemblies512,514. In certain implementations, the adapter assemblies512at the first port end501are defined by MPO-type adapter assemblies. In an example, the adapter assemblies514of the second port end502are defined by MPO-type adapter assemblies. In other implementations, however, the adapter assemblies514of the second port end502can be defined by LC-type adapter assemblies or other single-fiber adapter assemblies.

As shown inFIG.39, the cassette body510includes a bottom housing511having a base513, a sidewall, and a cover519that attaches to the bottom housing511to close an interior of the cassette body510. The base513defines the mounting end503and the cover519defines the cover end504. The adapters512,514are mounted at openings517at the first and second port ends501,502. In certain implementations, the openings517at the first port end501are disposed along a row extending between the first and second sides505,506; and the openings517at the second port end502are disposed along another row extending between the first and second sides505,506.

As shown best inFIG.41, the adapter assemblies512,514define a port for receiving an optical connector plug180and include a ferrule assembly330mounted opposite the port. In certain implementations, the adapter assemblies512,514include one of the adapter pieces310A,310B of the second example adapter assemblies300. The adapter piece310A,310B defines the port312for receiving the connector plug180at the port ends501,502of the cassette body511. The ferrule assembly300mounts to the adapter piece310A,310B at the flange323or other portion of the body311(e.g., seeFIG.42).

The port of each adapter assembly512,514faces outwardly from the respective port end501,502of the cassette body510(FIG.40). The ferrule assembly330faces inwardly towards the interior of the cassette body510(FIG.40). The ferrule assembly330can be spring-biased towards the port312to engage a ferrule of an optical connector plug180inserted at the port312(FIG.41). In some implementations, the ferrule assembly330is pre-cabled with optical fibers. In certain implementations, the ferrule assembly330of at least one adapter assembly512can be pre-cabled with optical fibers that extend to the ferrule assembly330of one or more adapter assemblies514as will be described in more detail herein.

As shown inFIG.41, the ferrule arrangement330includes an optical ferrule331defining one or more through-passages332through which one or more optical fibers can be mounted. In certain implementations, the ferrule331also defines pin openings333through which pins335of a pin arrangement334can extend. The ferrule arrangement330also includes a spring336to bias the ferrule331towards the port312of the adapter assembly512,514. In the example shown, the spring336includes two leaf springs338extending from a base337to interact with the pin arrangement334. In other implementations, other types of springs can be used to bias the ferrule arrangement330towards the port312of the adapter assembly512,514. In some implementations, adapter assemblies512at the first port end501can be pre-cabled to adapter assemblies514at the second port end502. For example, optical fibers535(e.g., bare optical fibers) can be routed within the interior of the cassette body510between the ferrule assemblies330of the adapter assemblies512,514. In certain implementations, portions of the cassette body510define bend radius contours515that facilitate fiber routing within the cassette body510. For example, portions of the cassette sidewall opposite the port openings517can extend away from the port openings517to define a concave contour facing the port openings517(seeFIG.40).

FIG.40shows one example routing plan for optically coupling a first adapter assembly512to at least one second adapter assembly514. In the example shown inFIG.40, a first one512aof the first adapter assemblies512has a port configured to receive a first connector plug532a. The first one512aof the first adapter assemblies512also includes a first ferrule arrangement330a(seeFIGS.41-42) that is pre-cabled with optical fibers535athat are routed to a second ferrule arrangements330a′ at one of the second adapter assemblies514a. The optical fibers535aextend from the first ferrule arrangement330a, towards one of the bend radius contours515, loops around towards the second side506of the cassette body510, loops around another of the bend radius contours515, and terminates at the second ferrule arrangement330a′.

In some implementations, the cassette body510has more second adapter assemblies514than first adapter assemblies512. For example, optical fibers535of each of the first adapter assemblies512can be routed to two or more of the second adapter assemblies514. In the example shown inFIG.40, optical fibers535of each of the first adapter assemblies512can be routed to three of the second adapter assemblies514. In another example, optical fibers535of two of the first adapter assemblies512can be routed to three of the second adapter assemblies514. In other implementations, the cassette500can have any desired number of first and second adapter assemblies512,514.

FIGS.43and43Aillustrate one example optical fiber arrangement535configured to extend between ferrule arrangements330,330′ of some of the first and second adapter assemblies512,514. In the example shown, the optical fiber arrangement535extends between the ferrule arrangements330of two first adapter assemblies512and the ferrule arrangements330′ of three second adapter assemblies514. The optical fiber arrangement535includes optical fibers being separated from two groups531,533of twelve fibers into three groups536,537,538of eight optical fibers. Each group531,533,536-538of optical fibers terminates at one of the ferrule arrangements330,330′. In other implementations, however, the optical fiber arrangement535can extend between any desired number of first and second adapter assemblies512,514.

In certain implementations, each ferrule arrangement330,330′ is configured to receive a like number of fibers (e.g., to fill fiber receptacles within the ferrule331). If the ferrule arrangement330,330′ is configured to receive fewer fibers of the fiber arrangement535, then the ferrule arrangement330,330′ can receive fiber stubs539(e.g., dark fibers) so that all through-passages332of the ferrule331are filled. For example, inFIG.43A, each ferrule arrangement330,330′ is configured to receive twelve optical fibers. However, the fiber arrangement535includes two groups531,533of twelve fibers and three groups536-538of eight fibers. Accordingly, the ferrule arrangements330′ receiving the second groups536-538of fibers also receive four fiber stubs539. In other implementations, each ferrule arrangement330,330′ can be configured to receive a greater or lesser number of fibers.

Referring back toFIG.39, some types of cassettes500are configured to obtain data (e.g., PLI) from the connector plugs532,534received at the ports of the adapter assemblies512,514. In certain implementations, the cassette500includes a circuit board520that is configured to extend over the contact assemblies230mounted to the adapter pieces310A,310B of the adapter assemblies512,514(seeFIGS.39and40). Contact pads on the circuit board520interface with the contact assemblies230to obtain the data stored at the plug connectors532,534received at the ports. A controller (e.g., processor, microprocessor, etc.) can be mounted to the circuit board520) to manage the information obtained from the contact assemblies230. In certain implementations, a circuit board connector extends from the circuit board520, through the mounting end503or the cover end504of the cassette body510, towards an electrical circuit (e.g., flex circuit, circuit board, etc.) connected to a chassis processor and/or data management network.

Some cassettes500are configured to mount to the tray400shown inFIGS.36and37. In other implementations, however, the cassette500can be mounted to the tray400or any other support structure. For example,FIGS.44-45illustrate the cassette500mounting to a tray400′ that is substantially the same as the tray400. In the example shown inFIGS.44-45, however, the tray400′ includes a side rail402′ having a different shape than the side rail402of the tray400. Cable management guides420′ of the example tray400′ also differ from the cable management guides420of the tray400.

In some implementations, the cassette body510can define a notched section516that is configured to seat on the mounting rail404of the tray400,400′. In certain implementations, latch arms406are configured to couple to latching shoulders defined by the cassette body510. In other implementations, the cassette body510can be otherwise coupled to the mounting rail404. In some implementations, the cassette body510includes flanges518that extend outwardly from the bottom housing511or cover519to seat on one or both of the tray cross-members403of the tray400,400′ (seeFIG.45).

In some implementations, the tray400′ also can include a second circuit board410and flex cable as described above with respect to tray400. In other implementations, the tray400′ may include another type of electrical circuit to receive a circuit board connector extending from the circuit board520of the cassette500to communicate the data stored on the plug connectors532,534to a chassis processor or data management network.

Referring now toFIGS.46-47, an alternative contact assembly230′ suitable for use in any of the adapter assemblies disclosed herein is shown. The contact assembly230′ includes a body231′ holding one or more contact members235′. The body231′ is generally rectangular in shape. The body231′ does not include an alignment peg for mounting to an adapter (e.g., adapter210, adapter310, adapter310′, etc.). Rather, the body231′ can define a flat surface facing the adapter. In certain implementations, the body231′ includes one or more mounting posts232′ that extend outwardly from the body231′ to mount to a circuit board (e.g., circuit boards260,360,520). In some implementations, the posts232′ can be snap-fit to the circuit board. In other implementations, the posts232′ can be soldered to the circuit board. The contact assembly230′ is held within an adapter by holding the circuit board to which the contact assembly230′ attaches to the adapter (e.g., with any of the adapter block assembly housings or cassette housings described herein).

A longer section of the contact members235′ extends from one side of the body231′ and a shorter section of the contact members235′ extends from an opposite side of the body231′. The shorter section of each contact member235′ defines a first contact surface236′. In certain implementations, the first contact surface236′ is configured to be soldered or otherwise secured to a circuit board (FIG.46). For example, the first contact surface236′ can be generally flat. The longer section of each contact member235′ defines a second contact surface238′ and a third contact surface239′. In certain implementations, the longer sections of the contact members235′ are substantially identical to the longer sections of the contact members235of the contact assembly230.

One example alternative adapter310′ configured to receive two contact assemblies230′ is shown inFIG.47. The alternative adapter310′ includes a body311′ that defines substantially the same ports312, apertures317, and mounting pegs319as the body311of the adapter310shown inFIG.23. However, the mounting recess315′ of the body311′ differs from the mounting recess315of the adapter body311in that the mounting recess315′ does not define a second aperture318. Rather, the flat surface of the contact assembly body231′ is configured to seat on the flat surface defined by the mounting recess315′. The adapter body311′ includes ribs316positioned between the third contact surfaces239′. The adapter body311′ defines a flat region316′ on which the short sections of contact members235′ can seat. The flat region316′ does not include ribs extending between the first contact surfaces236′.

In accordance with some aspects of the disclosure, some of the adapter block assemblies disclosed above have heights of no more than 13 mm including the adapters, the contact assemblies, the circuit board assemblies, and any cover assembly or housing assembly. For example, some of the adapter block assemblies have heights of no more than 12.75 mm. Certain of the adapter block assemblies have heights of no more than 12.5 mm. In an example, certain of the adapter block assemblies have heights of no more than 12.55 mm. In certain implementations, the adapter assemblies by themselves can have heights of no more than 9.5 mm. In an example, certain of the adapter block assemblies by themselves can have heights of no more than 9.35 mm. In certain implementations, the adapter assemblies by themselves can have heights of no more than 9 mm. In certain implementations, the adapter assemblies by themselves can have heights of no more than 8.5 mm. In certain implementations, the adapter assemblies by themselves can have heights of no more than 8 mm.

FIG.48illustrates an example tray arrangement600including another example tray610to which any of the adapter block assemblies or cassettes disclosed herein can be mounted. A circuit board arrangement620is configured to mount to the tray610. The circuit board arrangement620is configured to communicate with components (e.g., a controller) of the circuit board arrangement of the adapter block assembly or cassette mounted to the tray610. The tray610is configured to be slideably mounted to a side plane640. A flexible cable630or other electrical circuit connects the circuit board arrangement620of the tray610to an electrical circuit or local processor located at or connected to the side plane640. The tray610also can be configured to manage optical fibers routed to the ports of the adapter block assembly or cassette mounted to the tray610.

In the example shown inFIG.48, the tray610includes cross-members613extending between two side rails611,612. A mounting rail614extends between the cross-members613. In some implementations, mounting members616extend upwardly from the mounting rail614. The mounting members616are configured to engage an adapter block assembly or cassette to further secure the adapter block assembly or cassette to the tray610. Mounting structures615also are provided at the inner sides of the side rails611,612. In certain implementations, the mounting structures615are laterally aligned with each other and with the mounting members616.

The mounting rail614defines a pocket617at which the circuit board620can be mounted. Connection members622are mounted to the circuit board620in alignment with circuit board contact members of the adapter block assembly/cassette to be mounted to the tray610. The circuit board620also includes a connection member625at a cross-member613. In certain implementations, at least part of the cross-member613can also define part of the pocket617. At least a portion632of the flexible cable630can be routed through the second side rail612, through the pocket617along the cross-member613, to the connection member625of the circuit board620. A cover618can be mounted to the cross-member613to cover (e.g., protect) the flexible cable portion632.

An opposite end636of the flexible cable is routed to or through the side plane640. The side plane640defines one or more guide slots642along which the tray610can slide. For example, one of the side rails611,612of the tray610can slide along one of the guide slots642. The flexible cable630includes an intermediate length634that extends between the side rail612of the tray610and the side plane640. The intermediate length634is folded back on itself to accommodate movement of the tray610relative to the side plane640.

FIGS.49-55illustrate another example implementation of an adapter block assembly700that holds one or more adapter assemblies750. The adapter block assembly700has a front701, a rear702, a top703, a bottom704, a first side705, and a second side706. The front and rear701,702provide access to the ports753of the adapter assemblies750. The sides705,706of the adapter block assembly700are configured to mount the adapter block assembly700to a tray800(FIG.56) or other mounting structure. For example, each side705,706of the adapter block assembly700can include a retention member709.

As shown inFIG.51, the adapter block assembly700includes at least one adapter block arrangement710, a circuit board730, and a cover arrangement760. The adapter block arrangement710includes a first adapter block710A, a second adapter block710B, and a joining member720. The joining member720couples the first and second adapter blocks710A,710B together. In other implementations, the adapter block arrangement710can be formed as a single piece. Each adapter block710A,710B is configured to receive one or more of the adapter assemblies750. One example adapter block710is shown inFIG.52. The adapter block710includes two parallel walls711connected by a base713and sidewalls714. Each of the walls711defines one or more ports712. Each of the sidewalls714defines one of the retention members709. The adapter block710is configured to receive a cover760. The walls711include support surfaces716that define cavities717. Each wall711also defines openings718that pass through the wall711. Each wall711also defines notches719opening away from the base713.

The adapter block710is configured to hold one or more adapter assemblies750. As disclosed above, each adapter assembly750can include two adapter pieces751rotated 180° from each other (seeFIG.51). One example adapter piece751is shown inFIG.53. The adapter piece751includes a port region752defining a port753. The adapter piece751also includes a shroud754extending outwardly from a first end of the port region752away from the port753. A second end of the port region752defines a slot755that is sized and configured to receive the shroud754of another adapter piece751. The shroud754defines a through-opening or recess756at which a contact assembly230can be disposed.

Each adapter piece751includes two pegs757extending outwardly from the first end of the port region752and two pegs757extending outwardly from the second end of the port region752. Each adapter piece751also includes a peg758that extends outwardly from the shroud754or the first end of the port region752. The pegs757,758align with openings759(FIG.52) defined in the base713of the adapter block710. In some implementations, the openings759aid in positioning the adapter pieces751into a proper orientation. For example, the openings759can facilitate mounting the adapter pieces751so that all connectors received at the front of the adapter block710are keyed by the adapter block710in the same rotational orientation.

The circuit board arrangement730includes a first circuit board730A, a second circuit board730B, and a third circuit board730C (seeFIG.51). The first circuit board730A attaches to the bottom704of the first adapter block710A; the second circuit board730B attaches to the bottom704of the second adapter block710B; and the third circuit board730C attaches to the top703of the joining member720and both adapter blocks710A,710B. Circuit board connectors735extend from the first and second circuit boards730A,730B to the third circuit board730C to electrically connect the circuit board arrangement730. Another circuit board connector735(FIG.50) extends downwardly from the third circuit board730C towards the joining member720. The circuit board connector735of the third circuit board730C is configured to electrically connect the circuit board arrangement730to a data processing network (e.g., via a tray400,400′,610,800) as will be disclosed in more detail herein.

As shown inFIG.50, the joining member720is sized to accommodate passage of pins of the circuit board connector735from the third circuit board730C therethrough. In some implementations, the joining member720includes a shroud725through which the pins of the connector735extend. The shroud725inhibits damage (e.g., bending, breaking, etc.) to the pins when the adapter block assembly700is being mounted to a tray400,400′,610,800or other mounting surface. In certain implementations, the joining member720includes two shrouds725(e.g., a forward shroud and a rearward shroud). The circuit board connector735can extend through either shroud725depending on how the printed circuit board730is positioned on the adapter block assembly700.

Furthermore, the adapter block710can be positioned on a tray (e.g., tray610ofFIG.48) in one of two positions. For example, the adapter block710can be positioned on the tray610so that a first connection member622on the circuit board620seats in the first shroud725and a second connection member622on the circuit board620seats in the second shroud725. In other implementations, the adapter block710can be flipped 180° relative to the tray610so that a first connection member622on the circuit board620seats in the second shroud725and a second connection member622on the circuit board620seats in the first shroud725. Of course, the other trays (e.g., tray800) disclosed herein also can include circuit boards with multiple connection members on which any of the adapter blocks disclosed herein can seat.

As shown inFIG.51, the cover arrangement760includes a first cover760A, a second cover760B, and an intermediate cover770. The first and second covers760A,760B are disposed over the third circuit board730C and coupled to the adapter blocks710A,710B as will be disclosed in more detail herein. The intermediate cover770extends over an intermediate portion736(FIG.51) of the third circuit board730C between the first and second covers760A,760B and couples to the joining member720. For example, the intermediate cover770can define slots775(FIG.51) into which latching hooks722of the joining member720can snap to secure the intermediate cover770to the joining member720. In other implementations, the covers760A,760B,770can be formed as a single piece.

One example cover760is shown inFIGS.54and55. The cover760includes a body761and one or more lugs763extending outwardly from a perimeter of the body761. In an example, the cover body761is planar and the lugs763extend outwardly from opposite ends of the body761. The cover body761also includes side pegs762and end pegs764extending downwardly. In certain implementations, the end pegs764extend downwardly from support blocks767. The cover body761is configured to seat on the on the support surfaces716and sidewalls714of the adapter block710. The side pegs762extend through cavities715defined in the sidewalls714. The end pegs764extend through cavities717defined in the support surfaces716. The lugs763snap into the openings718defined in the walls711.

In some implementations, the cover760includes one or more light indicators769that are disposed along the ends of the body761. The light indicators769align with the ports712of the adapter block710when the cover760is mounted to the adapter block710. For example, the light indicators769can seat in the open-ended notches719defined in the walls711of the adapter710. The light indicators769are configured to glow or otherwise emit light to indicate a particular one of the ports712.

In some implementations, the light indicators769include light pipes765that direct the light from a light source towards a user (seeFIG.54). For example, the light pipes765can be configured to direct light from one or more LEDs mounted to the third circuit board730C towards a user. In certain implementations, the light pipes765include angled regions766to direct the light from an upwardly emitting LED outwardly towards distal ends768of the light pipes765. In the example shown, the angled regions766each define a 45° angle that receives the upwardly emitted light from the LED and directs the light towards the distal ends768of the light pipes765(FIG.55).

In certain implementations, the light pipes765extend outwardly from the cover body761to bulbous or otherwise enlarged ends768. In an example, each light pipe end768forms a semi-circle. In another example, each light pipe end768can form a full circle. In still other implementations, the outward ends768of the light pipes765can have any desired shape.

FIG.56illustrates another example tray800to which any of the adapter block assemblies or cassettes disclosed herein can be mounted. A circuit board arrangement is configured to mount to the tray800. The circuit board arrangement is configured to communicate with components (e.g., a controller) of the circuit board arrangement of the adapter block assembly or cassette mounted to the tray800. The tray800is configured to be slideably mounted to a side plane. A flexible cable or other electrical circuit connects the circuit board arrangement of the tray800to an electrical circuit or local processor located at or connected to the side plane. The tray800also can be configured to manage optical fibers routed to the ports of the adapter block assembly or cassette mounted to the tray800.

In the example shown inFIG.56, the tray800includes cross-members803extending between two side rails801,802. A mounting rail804extends between the cross-members803. In some implementations, mounting members806extend upwardly from the mounting rail804. The mounting members806are configured to engage any of the adapter block assemblies or cassettes to further secure the adapter block assembly or cassette to the tray800. Mounting structures805also are provided at the inner sides of the side rails801,802. In certain implementations, the mounting structures805are laterally aligned with each other and with the mounting members806.

FIGS.57-63illustrate another example cassette900suitable for mounting to a tray400,400′,610,800or other mounting structure. The cassette900is configured to couple together first multi-fiber cables and second cables (multi-fiber cables or single-fiber cables). In some implementations, the cassette900couples a number of first cables to a greater number of second cables. In an example, the cassette900is configured to couple each first cable to the second cables. In another example, the cassette900couples each pair of first cables to three second cables. In other implementations, each first cable is coupled to any desired number of second cables.

The cassette900has a first port end901, a second port end902, a first side905, and a second side906. The first cables are configured to plug into ports753at the first port end901and the second cables are configured to plug into ports753at the second port end902. At least one port753is defined at the first port end901and at least one port753is disposed at the second port end902. In the example shown, two ports753are defined at the first port end901and six ports753are disposed at the second port end902.

In some implementations, the ports753at the first and second port ends901,902are defined by half-adapter assemblies940. As shown inFIG.62, each half-adapter assembly940includes an adapter piece751(FIG.53), a contact assembly230, and a ferrule arrangement945. The adapter piece751defines the port753accessible from an exterior of the cassette900. The ferrule arrangement945includes a ferrule942, alignment pins944, a carriage946, and a spring948. The ferrule942holds internal optical fibers970; and the spring948biases the ferrule942towards the port753of the adapter piece751. Accordingly, the ferrule arrangement945and adapter piece751cooperate to optically couple the internal optical fibers970to optical fibers of any cable plugged into the respective port753.

The internal optical fibers970optically couple each ferrule arrangement945at the first port end901of the cassette900to one or more ferrule arrangements945at the second port end902. In certain implementations, one set of internal optical fibers970can optically couple at least one ferrule arrangement945at the first port end901to three ferrule arrangements945at the second port end902. For example, a set of twenty-four internal fibers970can be routed from a ferrule942at the first port end901into three groups of eight fibers with each group being routed to a respective ferrule942at the second port end902. In an example, one set of internal optical fibers970can optically couple a pair of ferrule arrangements945at the first port end901to three ferrule arrangements945at the second port end902.

In some implementations, the internal optical fibers970are loose optical fibers. In other implementations, the internal optical fibers970include a flex cable971(seeFIG.58). A flex cable971includes a cable formed by lacing optical fibers970on a sticky foil or other flexible substrate. For example, a machine can automatically arrange the internal optical fibers970on the foil into a particular configuration (e.g., having a particular polarity) to form the flex cable971. The flex cable971is disposed within the cassette900so that a first end974is routed to a ferrule arrangement945at the first port end901and a second end977is routed to a ferrule arrangement945at the second port end902. In certain implementations, loose fibers stubs973,976can extend outwardly from transition points972,975, respectively, of the flex cable971. In such implementations, the distal ends974,977of the fiber stubs973,976, respectively, are taped or otherwise organized for insertion into the ferrules942.

As shown inFIG.59, a circuit board930is disposed within the cassette900in electrical connection with contact assemblies230on the half-adapter assemblies940. For example, the circuit board930extends over the half-adapter assemblies940so that contact assemblies230disposed on the half-adapter assemblies940are electrically connected to the circuit board930(e.g., by touching contact pads on the board930). In certain implementations, each half-adapter assembly940includes only one contact assembly230. Because the internal optical fibers970optically couple the ferrule arrangements945at the first and second port ends901,902, the adapter pieces751at the first and second ports901,902can be oriented in the same direction. Accordingly, a single circuit board930can contact all of the contact assemblies230. The circuit board930includes a circuit board connector that extends through an opening908(FIG.61) in the cassette900to plug into a circuit on the tray400,400′,610,800to provide communication to a distribution network.

As shown inFIGS.58and59, the cassette900includes a cassette body910and a cover950that cooperate to hold the half-adapter assemblies940. The cassette body910includes a peripheral wall912extending upwardly from a base911. The base911defines a recessed section913that facilitates mounting the cassette900to the mounting bar of a tray (e.g., bar804of tray800). The body910also includes a retention arrangement914at each side905,906to secure the cassette900to the mounting structures of the tray (e.g., mounting structure805of tray800). The body910also includes flanges915that extend outwardly from the first port end901to seat on one of the cross-members of the tray (e.g., cross-member803of tray800).

Port openings916are defined in the peripheral wall912of the cassette body910to provide access to the ports753of the half-adapter assemblies940. The base911of the cassette body910defines peg openings909(FIG.59) sized and arranged to receive the pegs757,758of the adapter piece751of the half-adapter assembly940. The cassette body910includes an adapter cradle920at each port opening916. A half-adapter assembly940can be mounted at each adapter cradle920(seeFIG.59).

As shown inFIG.61, each adapter cradle920includes a first section921facing an interior of the cassette900and a second section925facing the port opening916. The first section921defines a cavity922, vertical channels923at one end, and an inwardly-extending ridge924at an opposite end of the first section921. The spring948of the half-adapter assemblies940is held at the vertical channels923of the first section921of the cradle920. Each adapter cradle920also includes a second section925including two upwardly-extending latching fingers926. The ferrule942of a ferrule arrangement945can be held at the latching fingers926of the second section925of the cradle920. A ridge on the ferrule942abuts the inwardly-extending ridge924at the first section921to limit movement of the ferrule942towards the port opening916.

InFIG.61, an example half-adapter assembly940is disposed at the right-most port opening916at the second port end902. Empty cradles920are located at the third port opening916from the right at the second port end902and at the left-most port opening916at the first port end901. A ferrule arrangement945is disposed at the right-most port opening916at the first port end901. Various components of half-adapter assemblies940are disposed at the remaining port openings916.

As shown inFIG.59, the half-adapter assemblies940are sandwiched between the cassette body910and the circuit board930. The circuit board930includes a body931defining peg holes932that are sized and configured to receive the pegs757,758of the adapter piece751of the half-adapter assemblies940. The peg holes932aid in aligning the circuit board930relative to the half-adapter assemblies940, which aligns the contact assemblies230with contacts pads on the body931of the board930. In the example shown, both the base911and the circuit board930define openings909,932that receive both pegs757and alignment peg758. Accordingly, the adapter piece751can be mounted to the cassette body910in either orientation (e.g., shroud-up or shroud-down).

As shown inFIG.60, the cassette body910and cover950are configured to fit together to form the cassette900. The cover950retains the circuit board930and half-adapter assemblies940within the cassette body910. The cassette body910includes pillars927disposed about an interior of the peripheral wall912. Latch hooks928extend inwardly from a top of the peripheral wall912. The cover950includes a body951that is sized to extend over an open top of the cassette body910. The cover body951is sized to seat on the pillars927within the peripheral wall912of the cassette body910. The latch hooks928of the cassette body910snap into notches952provided along a peripheral edge of the body951to hold the cover950to the cassette body910.

In some implementations, retention flanges929extend upwardly from the base911between the port openings916. Latching arms953extend downwardly from the cover body951. Latching hooks954extend inwardly from distal ends of the latching arms953. The latching hooks954are configured to catch on the retention flanges929of the cassette body910. In certain implementations, the latching arms953and retention flanges929cooperate to reduce movement of the cover950away from the cassette body910even when the contact assemblies230push upwardly against the circuit board930(e.g., when a plug connector is received at the port), which pushes upwardly against the cover950.

As shown inFIGS.59-61, the cassette body910also includes fiber routing structures that facilitate routing the internal optical fibers970within the cassette900. For example, the fiber routing structures provide bend radius limiting for the internal optical fibers970routed between the ferrule arrangements950at the first and second port ends901,902. In the example shown, the cassette body910includes routing flanges918configured to lead the internal fibers970from the ferrule arrangements945at the first port end901towards one side of the cassette900. The internal optical fibers970are routed to a fiber spool917for redirection towards the port openings916at one side of the second port end902. Slack fiber length also can be stored at the spool917. Radius limiters919aid in directing the internal fibers970to the ferrule arrangements945at the second port end902.

As shown inFIG.58, a fiber spool arrangement960can be disposed within the cassette900. For example, a fiber spool arrangement960can be mounted at each fiber spool917. In certain implementations, each fiber spool arrangement960includes a spool961that fits with the fiber spool917. A flange962extends from a top of the spool961to aid in separating the internal fibers970from the circuit board930. Two arms963extend outwardly from opposite sides of the spool961. A bend radius limiter964can be provided at a distal end of each arm963. The spool961and bend radius limiters964can define a storage space in which the internal optical fibers970can be routed.

In some implementations, the fiber spool arrangement960is utilized with loose internal fibers970. In other implementations, the fiber spool arrangement960is utilized with a flex circuit cable971. In some such implementations, the arms963of the fiber spool arrangement960are located sufficiently towards the bottom of the spool961to press against the transition points972,975of the flex cable971. Accordingly, the arms963can inhibit curling of the flex cable971at the transition points972,975.

FIGS.64-70illustrate another example cassette1000suitable for mounting to a tray400,400′,610,800or other mounting structure. The cassette1000is configured to couple together first multi-fiber cables and second cables (multi-fiber cables or single-fiber cables). In some implementations, the cassette1000couples a number of first cables to a greater number of second cables. In an example, the cassette1000is configured to couple each first cable to the second cables. In another example, the cassette1000couples each pair of first cables to three second cables. In other implementations, each first cable is coupled to any desired number of second cables.

The cassette1000includes a body1007having a first port end1001, a second port end1002, a top1003(FIG.64), a bottom1004(FIG.65), a first side1005, and a second side1006. At least one port1026is defined at the first port end1001and at least one port1027is disposed at the second port end1002. One or more first cables are configured to plug into the one or more ports1026at the first port end1001and one or more second cables are configured to plug into the one or more ports1027at the second port end1002. In the example shown, two ports1026are defined at the first port end1001and six ports1027are disposed at the second port end1002.

The cassette body1007includes a retention arrangement1008at each side1005,1006to secure the cassette1000to the mounting structures of the tray (e.g., mounting structure805of tray800). The body1007has mounting structure1009at the bottom1004of the cassette1000to facilitate mounting the cassette1000to the tray (seeFIG.65). In some implementations, the mounting structure1009includes a channel1013defined through a portion of the cassette body1007. The cassette body1007is mounted to the tray so that a portion of the tray extends through one or more channels1013.

As shown inFIG.65, a mounting opening1014and at least one connector opening1015lead from the bottom1004of the cassette body1007into the interior of the cassette1000. Latches or other connection structures on the tray extend upwardly through the mounting opening1014to secure the cassette1000to the tray. Interior electrical (e.g., electronic) circuitry within the cassette1000connects to electrical circuitry on the tray through the connector openings1015. In the example shown, two connector openings1015extends into the cassette interior from the channel1013. In certain examples, a shroud may extend downwardly from each connector opening1015to protect a connector extending through the opening1015. In certain examples, the mounting opening1014and the at least one connector opening1015are disposed within the channel1013.

In some implementations, the cassette body1007includes a connection section1010and at least one fiber management section1011(seeFIG.64). In certain examples, the cassette body1007includes multiple fiber management sections1011. In certain examples, the fiber management sections1011extend from both sides of the connection section1010. For example, in certain implementations, one fiber management section1011extends in a first direction and another fiber management section1011extends in a second direction. In the example shown, first and second fiber management sections1011extend from outer locations of the first port end1001and a third fiber management section1011extends from an intermediate location of the second port end1002.

In certain examples, the fiber management sections1011are thinner than the connection section1010. In an example, the top1003of each fiber management section1011is substantially parallel with the top1003of the connection section1010. In an example, the bottom1004of each fiber management section1011is substantially parallel with the bottom1004of the connection section1010.

FIG.66illustrates example optical components disposed within the cassette1000. For example, a circuit board1021and one or more optical adapters1025are disposed within the cassette body1007. For example, the circuit board1021and the optical adapters1025may be disposed within the connection section1010of the cassette body1007. In certain implementations, one or more branching devices (e.g., for signal monitoring) can be disposed within the cassette body1007. In certain implementations, one or more optical taps (e.g., for signal monitoring) can be disposed within the cassette body1007.

The optical adapters1025define the cassette ports1026,1027at the first and second ports ends1001,1002, respectively, of the cassette1000. In some implementations, the optical adapters1025are positioned and oriented within the cassette body1007so that each optical adapter1025has an exterior port (i.e., a port accessible from an exterior of the cassette body1007) and an interior port1028(i.e., a port accessible from an interior of the cassette body1007). In an example, the optical adapters1025do not extend beyond the cassette body1007.

As shown inFIG.67, optical fibers (e.g., loose fibers, flex-foil fibers, etc.) are routed between the interior ports1028of the optical adapters1025to create optical connections between optical connectors plugged into the exterior ports of the adapters1025. For example, a first optical adapter1025may define a port1026at the first port end1001of the cassette body1007and at least two optical adapters1025may define ports1027at the second port end1002of the cassette body1007. Optical fibers may be routed from an interior port1028of the first optical adapter1025at the first connection end1001to the interior ports1028of the two optical adapters1025at the second connection end1002.

In an example, optical fibers may be routed from the interior port1028of the first optical adapter1025to interior ports1028of three optical adapters1025defining ports1027at the second port end1002(e.g., seeFIG.67). In another example, optical fibers may be routed from the interior ports of two optical adapters1025defining ports1026at the first port end1001to interior ports of three optical adapters1025defining ports1027at the second port end1002.

In some implementations, the optical adapters1025include full optical adapters (e.g., optical adapter210ofFIG.2; optical adapter310ofFIG.22; and optical adapter310′ ofFIG.47). In certain implementations, multi-fiber connectors1030are plugged into the interior ports1028of the optical adapters1025. In examples, the multi-fiber connectors1030differ from conventional multi-fiber connectors in that they do not include a strain-relief boot (e.g., seeFIG.66). In an example, the multi-fiber connectors1030also do not include the ribbed portions of the spring retainers. In examples, the multi-fiber connectors1030do not include crimps. In other implementations, the optical adapters1025include partial optical adapters (e.g., partial adapter512,514ofFIG.41; and partial adapter751ofFIG.53).

In some implementations, each of the optical adapters1025is configured to hold a contact assembly (e.g., contact assembly230ofFIG.11; or contact assembly230′ ofFIG.46) to provide a media reading interface for a connector plugged into the exterior port. In some implementations, PLI or other information is obtained from optical connectors received at the exterior ports1026,1027of the optical adapters1025. In some such implementations, the contact assemblies are disposed at only one end of the optical adapters1025and a single circuit board1021extends across the contact assemblies.

In some implementations, one or more management spools1040are disposed within the cassette body1007. For example, the management spools1040may be disposed in the fiber management sections1011of the cassette body1007. In the example shown, one fiber management spool1040is disposed in each of the fiber management sections1011. The management spools1040aid in routing optical fibers between the interior ports1028of the optical adapters1025. In an example, the management spools1040aid in routing loose fibers between management sections1011. In another example, at least portions of the optical fibers can be disposed on a flexible substrate (e.g., a tape, a spool, etc.). The substrate portions extend between the management sections1011and the management spools1040within the management sections1011manage the portions of the optical fibers extending from the substrate. In an example, the substrate laterally aligns the optical fibers to lessen the amount of vertical space needed to accommodate the optical fibers.

Each management spool1040includes a bend radius limiter1041and one or more retention flanges1042extending outwardly from the bend radius limiter1041(FIG.68). In some implementations, the retention flanges1042extend a common distance from the bend radius limiter1041. In other implementations, the retention flanges1042extend at varying distances. In certain examples, the retention flanges1042include long flanges1043and short flanges1044that are shorter than the long flanges1043. In other implementations, the retention flanges1042may have more than two lengths.

As shown inFIG.67, each fiber management section1011of the cassette body1007defines a management region1045in which the management spool1040is disposed to form a routing path through the management region1045. In some implementations, the management spools1040are separately manufactured components coupled to mounts1058within the cassette body1007(e.g., seeFIG.68). As shown inFIG.69, each spool1040may include a hollow or partially hollow interior1046in which the mount1058can be received. In an example, the spools1040are snap-fit to the mounts1058. In an example, the spools1040are friction-fit to the mounts1058. In other examples, the spools1040can be otherwise coupled to the mounts1058(e.g., glued, welded, latched, etc.).

The spools1040are sized to fit within the fiber management sections1011. For example, in some implementations, the routing path has a height that is less than about 0.075 inches. The height of the routing path is measured between the management region1045and one of the retention flanges1042. In certain implementations, the routing path has a height that is less than about 0.07 inches. In an example, the routing path has a height that is about 0.069 inches.

In certain implementations, at least a portion of the periphery1047of the management section1011is rounded or contoured that aids in routing the optical fibers around the spool1040and providing bend radius protection to the fibers routed therethrough. In some implementations, the width of the routing path varies through the management section1011. For example, the longer retention flanges1043cooperate with the periphery1047of the retention section1045to define wider portions1048of the routing path and the shorter retention flanges1044cooperate with the periphery1047of the retention section1045to define shorter portions1049of the routing path (seeFIG.67).

In certain examples, the spools1040are oriented so that some of the wider portions1048of the routing path are disposed at locations where optical fibers cross over each other. For example, the long retention flanges1043of the spool1045A inFIG.67extend over the regions where the optical fibers from the optical adapter1025A cross over optical fibers from the optical adapter1025B. The short retention flanges1044of the spool1045A extend over regions where optical fibers from only one of the optical adapters1025A,1025B are routed around the spool1040A.

In certain examples, the spools1040are oriented so that the narrower portions1049of the routing path are disposed at locations where the optical fibers extend generally linearly and the wider portions1048are disposed at locations where the fibers are routed around a curve. For example, one of the short retention flanges1044extends over a region1049at which the optical fibers from the optical adapter1025A extend linearly from a first retention section1011A to a second retention section1011B. Some of the long retention flanges1043extend over a region1048at which the optical fibers from the optical adapter1025A curve around the spool1045B.

In some implementations, the cassette body1007includes a top member1050and a bottom member1060. The top and bottom members1050,1060cooperate to enclose the optical components within the cassette body1007. In certain implementations, the top and bottom members1050,1060cooperate to define port openings through which the port openings1026,1027are accessible. In some implementations, each of the top and bottom members1050,1060defines a portion of the connection section1010and a portion of each management section1011.

Each of the top and bottom members1050,1060includes a base1051,1061from which a sidewall1052,1062, respectively, extends. The top and bottom members1050,1060include attachment structures that hold the top and bottom members1050,1060together. For example, in some implementations, one of the top and bottom members1050,1060includes tabs (e.g., latch tabs)1053and the other of the top and bottom members1050,1060defines openings1063to receive the latch tabs1053. In an example, the top member1050includes the tabs1053and the bottom member1060defines the openings1063. In other implementations, the top and bottom members1050,1060can be otherwise attached (e.g., welded, glued, fastened, friction-fit, etc.).

In certain examples, one or more latch arrangements1055,1065are disposed within the cassette body1007to secure the top and bottom members1050,1060together. In the example shown, the latch arrangements1055of the top member1050include latch fingers1056having outwardly directed hooks1057; and the latch arrangements1065of the bottom member1060include latch fingers1066having inwardly directed hooks1067. When the top and bottom members1050,1060are assembled, the inwardly directed hooks1067snap over the outwardly directed hooks1057to hold the top and bottom members1050,1060together.

In certain implementations, the latch arrangements1055,1065are disposed in the connection section1010of the module body1007. Accordingly, the top and bottom members1050,1060are held together at locations close to the circuit board1021and contact assemblies. In certain examples, the latch arrangements1055,1065extend between the optical adapters1025(e.g., seeFIG.66). These latching connections aid in maintaining contact between the contact assemblies and the circuit board1021during insertion and/or removal of optical connectors from the ports1026,1027.

The connection section1010of the top member1050is configured to receive the circuit board1021. For example, the top section1050includes multiple depressions1054sized and located to accommodate components and/or circuitry on the circuit board1021. In certain examples, some of the depressions1054can be provided between the latch arrangements1055. The depressions1054can be shaped and sized to match specific components on the circuit board1021. In certain implementations, the circuit board1021can include or be electrically coupled to one or more active circuits (e.g., detectors, monitoring circuitry).

In certain implementations, one or more light indicators (e.g., LEDs) can be disposed on the circuit board1021. In some implementations, at least part of the cassette body1007is formed of a transparent material through which light emitted from the light indicator can be viewed. In certain examples, the light emitted from the light indicators at least partly shines out through the ports1026,1027. In the example shown, the connection section1010defines a recess1080aligned with each port1026,1027to accommodate the light indicators. In other implementations, the cassette body1007includes an opaque material and a light transmissible material that forms paths between the light indicators and an exterior of the cassette1000.

In some implementations, the management spools1040within the cassette1000extend downwardly from the top of the cassette1000. For example, in certain implementations, the management sections1011of the top member1050include the mounts1058for the management spools1040. The management spools1040couple to the mounts1058so that the retention flanges1042are spaced from the management region1045of the top member1050. Accordingly, when the cassette1000is assembled, the optical fibers are routed between the retention flanges1042and the top member1050of the cassette1000.

In certain examples, one or more guides1059can be provided along the fiber routing path to aid in directing the optical fibers. In an example, the guides1059aid in retaining the optical fibers within the bounds of the retention flanges1042. In some implementations, the cassette1000is configured so that each optical fiber wraps no more than once around a particular management spool1040. In an example, each optical fiber is routed about two spools1040. In certain examples, the optical fibers are initially routed through the fiber routing paths so that the fibers are radially offset from the bend radius limiters1041of the spools1040. Accordingly, the fibers have slack length that allows one or more of the fibers to be reconnectorized or otherwise operated on.

The bottom member1060is configured to fit with the top member1050. As shown inFIG.70, the bottom member1060includes a raised portion1068sized to accommodate the channel1013defined along the bottom exterior of the cassette1000. The mounting opening1014and the connector opening(s)1015are defined in the raised portion1068. In certain examples, the interior entrance1014′ of the mounting opening1014is elongated having rounded edges at opposite ends (e.g., seFIG.70). In an example, the exterior entrance of the mounting opening also is elongated with rounded ends. In other examples, the mounting opening1014is circular (seeFIG.65). In an example, the interior entrance of the mounting opening1014also is circular.

In some implementations, the bottom member1060also includes a cable routing arrangement1070disposed at an exterior thereof. In the example shown inFIG.70, the cable routing arrangement1070extends outwardly from the intermediate management section1011at the second port end1002of the cassette1000. The cable routing arrangement1070is configured to route optical fibers extending from the ports1027at the second port end1002laterally across the cassette1000. In an example, the cable routing arrangement1070is configured to route optical fibers that extend from ports1027at one side of the second port end1002towards an opposite side of the second port end1002.

In some examples, the cable routing arrangement1070includes one or more support flanges1071extending outwardly from the bottom member1060. Tabs or flanges1072extend upwardly from each support flange1071to retain optical fibers on the support flange1071. In an example, the tabs or flanges1072are integral with the support flanges1071(e.g., bent distal portions of the support flange1071). One or more retaining fingers1073extend outwardly from the sidewall1062of the bottom member1060to further define the cable passage through the routing arrangement1070.

In some implementations, the cable routing arrangement1070includes one or more routing members1075. Each routing member1075includes a support flange1071and at least one retaining finger1073. In the example shown inFIG.70, a routing member1075is disposed at opposite sides of the management section1011of the second port end1002. In certain implementations, the routing member1075can support additional fiber retention devices, such as clips or hooks. In certain implementations, the routing member1075can be slotted to support tie-wraps or hook-and-loop fasteners.

FIG.71illustrates another example tray1100to which any of the adapter block assemblies250,350,700or cassettes500,900,1000disclosed herein can be mounted. The tray1100is similar to trays400,400′, and600in that the tray1100is configured to be mounted to a rack for movement relative to the rack. For example, the tray1100can be slideably mounted to a side plane (e.g., see side rail640inFIG.48). A circuit board arrangement is configured to mount to the tray1100(e.g., see circuit board arrangement620ofFIG.48). The circuit board arrangement is configured to communicate with components (e.g., a controller) of the circuit board arrangement of the adapter block assembly or cassette mounted to the tray1100.

In the example shown inFIG.71, the tray1100includes cross-members1103that extend between side rails1101,1102. The tray1100also includes a mounting rail1104on which the cassette or adapter block assemblies seat. In the example shown, the mounting rail1104extends between the cross-members1103. Mounting members1106extend upwardly from the mounting rail1104to connect to the cassette or adapter block assembly. The tray1100also includes mounting structures1105that engage retention arrangements on the cassettes or adapter block assemblies.

In some implementations, the cassette body1007is shaped to fit on the tray1100. For example, the cassette body1007defines the channel1013in which the mounting rail1104is accommodated. In certain implementations, the management sections1011extending from the first port end1001of the bottom member1060define recessed regions1085that seat on one of the cross-members1103. The cross-members1103support the cassette1000. The channel1013and recessed regions1085enable the cassette1000to seat low on the tray1100. In an example, the channel1013and recessed regions1085enable a top of the cassette1000to be no more than flush with the side rail1102.

FIG.72schematically shows an example optical fiber arrangement1150including a flexible substrate1151and multiple optical fibers1152. The flexible substrate1151longitudinally extends from a first end1153to a second end1154. The optical fibers1152extend longitudinally across the flexible substrate1151. The optical fibers1152are disposed on the flexible substrate1151so that positions of the optical fibers1152are fixed relative to the flexible substrate1151. Examples of flexible substrate1151include adhesive tape, foil, or other flexible materials.

The optical fibers1152extend laterally across the first end1153in a row and extend laterally across the second end1154in a row. In certain examples, one or more of the optical fibers1152cross-over or otherwise laterally shift positions at an intermediate region1155of the flexible substrate1151. In certain examples, additional optical fibers1156are disposed on the flexible substrate1151along with the optical fibers1152. The additional optical fibers1156have first ends that terminate at a location on the flexible substrate1151. In certain implementations, the crossing-over and shifting of the optical fibers1152at the intermediate region1155provides room to accommodate the additional optical fibers1156.

In some implementations, the optical fibers1152extending from the first end1153of the flexible substrate1151are terminated by a single optical connector1157(e.g., an MPO connector). In an example, the optical connector1157terminates twenty-four optical fibers1152(e.g., arranged in two rows1157a,1157bof twelve). In another example, the optical connector1157terminates twelve optical fibers1152. In other implementations, the optical fibers1152extending from the first end1153of the flexible substrate1151are terminated by multiple (e.g., two) optical connectors1157(e.g., single-fiber connectors or multi-fiber connectors).

In some implementations, the optical fibers1152extending from the second end1154of the flexible substrate1151are terminated by multiple optical connectors1158(e.g., MPO connectors). In an example, the optical fibers1152are terminated by two optical connectors1158. In another example, the optical fibers1152are terminated by three optical connectors1158a,1158b,1158c. In examples, each of the optical connectors1158receives twelve of the optical fibers1152. In certain examples, end of the optical fibers1152are ribbonized, coated, or otherwise held together to facilitate connectorization of the optical fibers1152. In other implementations, the optical fibers1152extending from the second end1154of the flexible substrate1151are terminated by multiple single-fiber connectors.

In certain examples, each of the optical connectors1158receives at least one of the optical connectors1152and at least one of the additional optical connectors1156. In an example, each of the optical connectors1158a,1158b,1158creceives eight of the optical fibers1152and four of the additional optical fibers1156. In other implementations, a first optical connector1158acan receive a different number of additional optical fibers1156from a second optical connector1158b. In certain examples, end of the additional optical fibers1156are ribbonized, coated, or otherwise held together with the corresponding ends of the optical fibers1152to facilitate connectorization of the optical fibers1152.

In certain implementations, the optical fiber arrangement1150can be keyed by color coding one or more of the optical fibers1152and/or the additional optical fibers1156. For example, one or more of the additional optical fibers1156may be colored differently than the rest of the optical fibers1152and/or additional optical fibers1156. In an example, each connector1158a,1158b,1158cterminates a different number of colored additional optical fibers1156. For example, the first optical connector1158amay have a single colored additional optical fiber; the second optical connector1158bmay have two colored additional optical fibers; and the third optical connector1158cmay have three colored additional optical fibers. In other implementations, other coding sequences may be utilized.

The above specification, examples and data provide a complete description of the manufacture and use of the composition of the invention. Since many embodiments of the invention can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, the invention resides in the claims hereinafter appended.