CA1235319A - Movable closure for optical elements - Google Patents
Movable closure for optical elementsInfo
- Publication number
- CA1235319A CA1235319A CA000417701A CA417701A CA1235319A CA 1235319 A CA1235319 A CA 1235319A CA 000417701 A CA000417701 A CA 000417701A CA 417701 A CA417701 A CA 417701A CA 1235319 A CA1235319 A CA 1235319A
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- shroud
- housing
- optical
- accordance
- aperture
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired
Links
Classifications
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G02—OPTICS
- G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
- G02B6/00—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings
- G02B6/24—Coupling light guides
- G02B6/36—Mechanical coupling means
- G02B6/38—Mechanical coupling means having fibre to fibre mating means
- G02B6/3807—Dismountable connectors, i.e. comprising plugs
- G02B6/3833—Details of mounting fibres in ferrules; Assembly methods; Manufacture
- G02B6/3847—Details of mounting fibres in ferrules; Assembly methods; Manufacture with means preventing fibre end damage, e.g. recessed fibre surfaces
- G02B6/3849—Details of mounting fibres in ferrules; Assembly methods; Manufacture with means preventing fibre end damage, e.g. recessed fibre surfaces using mechanical protective elements, e.g. caps, hoods, sealing membranes
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G02—OPTICS
- G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
- G02B6/00—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings
- G02B6/24—Coupling light guides
- G02B6/36—Mechanical coupling means
- G02B6/38—Mechanical coupling means having fibre to fibre mating means
- G02B6/3807—Dismountable connectors, i.e. comprising plugs
- G02B6/3869—Mounting ferrules to connector body, i.e. plugs
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G02—OPTICS
- G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
- G02B6/00—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings
- G02B6/24—Coupling light guides
- G02B6/36—Mechanical coupling means
- G02B6/38—Mechanical coupling means having fibre to fibre mating means
- G02B6/3807—Dismountable connectors, i.e. comprising plugs
- G02B6/3887—Anchoring optical cables to connector housings, e.g. strain relief features
- G02B6/3888—Protection from over-extension or over-compression
Landscapes
- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Optics & Photonics (AREA)
- Mechanical Coupling Of Light Guides (AREA)
Abstract
ABSTRACT
MOVABLE CLOSURE ERR OPTICAL ELEMENTS
A closure for optical element terminations, which alternately covers and uncovers the exposed optical element. The closure includes a shroud which covers the housing containing the optical element. The shroud is movable between position opening and closing the optical element, in response to the connection and disconnection of housing.
MOVABLE CLOSURE ERR OPTICAL ELEMENTS
A closure for optical element terminations, which alternately covers and uncovers the exposed optical element. The closure includes a shroud which covers the housing containing the optical element. The shroud is movable between position opening and closing the optical element, in response to the connection and disconnection of housing.
Description
.~35~3~9 MOVABLE CLOSURE FOR OPTICAL ELEMENTS
1 FIELD OF THE INVENTION:
.
This invention relates to closures for optical element terminations, and more particularly to the removable closure of the end of an optical fiber in an optical fiber connection.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION:
__ _ In the coupling of optical elements, an end face thereof is typically exposed so as Jo be coupled with an end face of a second optical element. In particular with optical fiber connectors, such end faces are commonly formed by cleaving the ends of the optical elements. In the ultimate connection of the elements a protective sleeve forming a portion of the connector is often provided, such sleeve insulating and protecting the fibers prom exposure to the environment However, when the connectors are no-t mated, e.g., prior to actual connection or when a change in connection is desired, the cleaved ends are usually exposed. Foreign matter such as dir-t, dust or the like can enter the connector, covering or at least partially blocking the end face of optical fiber. This blockage can severely affect the optical transmission capabilities of the connector.
Prior attempts have been made -to provide a cover or cap for optical fiber ends for use in a wide variety of applications. These prior devices include shutter-type mechanisms which are activated by external means. While such shutter-type mechanisms effectively serve to block optical transmission between end-to-end optical elements they provide little protection from outside particles and contaminants. Further, these prior devices are actuated in a separate step apart from that of the connection of the elements. This results in exposure of the optical element prior to connection.
Accordingly, the prior devices, while providing an end cover or shutter for cutting off optical transmission, do not sufficiently cover the end of the fiber so as to I, .
,:
.~Z.353~
protect i-t from outside contaminants and debris. Further, these known devices do not enrage automatically upon disk connection of the optical elements.
SUMMERY OF THE INVENTION:
It is an object o-f the present invention to provide an improved closure for optical element terminations.
It is a further, more particular object to provide a closure for the cleaved end of an optical fiber in a connector, which closes upon disconnection.
These and other objects and features are found in the present invention which looks toward providing a closure for optical element terminations, more particularly in a resilient shroud for an elongate optical fiber connector house in. The shroud is mounted to the connector housing and is resiliently movable between two positions: a first position wherein the shroud blocks or covers the optical fiber end; and a second position wherein the shroud uncovers the optical fiber end. The shroud has an engagement portion adjacent an axial bore of the housing, adapted to be engaged upon connection of the housing with another optical element. The shroud movement is responsive to the engagement ox the engagement portion. The position of the shroud is such that when the connector is connect-Ed to a second optical element, say another connector, the fiber end is uncovered for complete optical transmission. Upon disk engagement, the shroud moves to a position covering the fiber end, not only blocking optical transmission, but also shielding the fiber end from outside con~aminents.
1 FIELD OF THE INVENTION:
.
This invention relates to closures for optical element terminations, and more particularly to the removable closure of the end of an optical fiber in an optical fiber connection.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION:
__ _ In the coupling of optical elements, an end face thereof is typically exposed so as Jo be coupled with an end face of a second optical element. In particular with optical fiber connectors, such end faces are commonly formed by cleaving the ends of the optical elements. In the ultimate connection of the elements a protective sleeve forming a portion of the connector is often provided, such sleeve insulating and protecting the fibers prom exposure to the environment However, when the connectors are no-t mated, e.g., prior to actual connection or when a change in connection is desired, the cleaved ends are usually exposed. Foreign matter such as dir-t, dust or the like can enter the connector, covering or at least partially blocking the end face of optical fiber. This blockage can severely affect the optical transmission capabilities of the connector.
Prior attempts have been made -to provide a cover or cap for optical fiber ends for use in a wide variety of applications. These prior devices include shutter-type mechanisms which are activated by external means. While such shutter-type mechanisms effectively serve to block optical transmission between end-to-end optical elements they provide little protection from outside particles and contaminants. Further, these prior devices are actuated in a separate step apart from that of the connection of the elements. This results in exposure of the optical element prior to connection.
Accordingly, the prior devices, while providing an end cover or shutter for cutting off optical transmission, do not sufficiently cover the end of the fiber so as to I, .
,:
.~Z.353~
protect i-t from outside contaminants and debris. Further, these known devices do not enrage automatically upon disk connection of the optical elements.
SUMMERY OF THE INVENTION:
It is an object o-f the present invention to provide an improved closure for optical element terminations.
It is a further, more particular object to provide a closure for the cleaved end of an optical fiber in a connector, which closes upon disconnection.
These and other objects and features are found in the present invention which looks toward providing a closure for optical element terminations, more particularly in a resilient shroud for an elongate optical fiber connector house in. The shroud is mounted to the connector housing and is resiliently movable between two positions: a first position wherein the shroud blocks or covers the optical fiber end; and a second position wherein the shroud uncovers the optical fiber end. The shroud has an engagement portion adjacent an axial bore of the housing, adapted to be engaged upon connection of the housing with another optical element. The shroud movement is responsive to the engagement ox the engagement portion. The position of the shroud is such that when the connector is connect-Ed to a second optical element, say another connector, the fiber end is uncovered for complete optical transmission. Upon disk engagement, the shroud moves to a position covering the fiber end, not only blocking optical transmission, but also shielding the fiber end from outside con~aminents.
- 2 -: , 1~3S;3~9 Further embodiments of the shroud are contemplated, including a shroud having an aperture. In covered position -the aperture is in non alignment with the fixer end and in uncover Ed position, the fiber end and aperture are aligned.
Other objects and features of the invention will be evident from the following detailed description of -the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING:
Figure 1 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an optical cable connector, including the shroud of the present invention shown in the normally-covering position.
Figure 2 is a partially fragmented view of the Figure 1 connector shown connected to pa further optical element housing with the shroud in the open position.
Figure 3 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an optical cable connector including another embodiment of the shroud of the present invention) such shroud being shown in covering position.
Figure 4 shows a partially fragmented view of the connector of Fig. 3 being connected to a further optical element housing, -the shroud being shown in the open position.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS:
Referring to Fig. l, there is shown an optical fiber :::
cable connector 20, useful in securing the terminal end of an optical cable 10 for connection with a similar end of a second optical cable, held in a mating connector, not shown.
-Cable connectors are disclosed as being preferred examples of practicing the present invention. Notwithstanding the preferred environment, the invention disclosed herein is .
Other objects and features of the invention will be evident from the following detailed description of -the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING:
Figure 1 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an optical cable connector, including the shroud of the present invention shown in the normally-covering position.
Figure 2 is a partially fragmented view of the Figure 1 connector shown connected to pa further optical element housing with the shroud in the open position.
Figure 3 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an optical cable connector including another embodiment of the shroud of the present invention) such shroud being shown in covering position.
Figure 4 shows a partially fragmented view of the connector of Fig. 3 being connected to a further optical element housing, -the shroud being shown in the open position.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS:
Referring to Fig. l, there is shown an optical fiber :::
cable connector 20, useful in securing the terminal end of an optical cable 10 for connection with a similar end of a second optical cable, held in a mating connector, not shown.
-Cable connectors are disclosed as being preferred examples of practicing the present invention. Notwithstanding the preferred environment, the invention disclosed herein is .
3~3 not limited four use with the presently disclosed connector or with any conventional connectors alone, but may be employed Wyeth various optical element termination devices. For simplification of description and ease in understanding, the present invention is being described in connection with fiber optic cable connectors such as the type shown and described in Canadian Patent No. 1,149,654 issued July 12, 1983 and assign-Ed to -the assignee of the instant application.
Connector 20 is a fiber optic cable connector which terminates a conventional cable 10 including optical PA -~353~
l Eyebrow Lo or connectiorl with a secor1cl optical fiber. Thy connector 20 includes an outer housing on which keynote a retainer ring 22, and a surrounding ferrule 18 or accomtno--dating the cable and fiber. An end cap 24 secures the retaining ring and ferrule yin place in the housing. A
fiber guide 44, also contained in housing 30, accepts the extending fiber 12, securing relative longitudinal orientation. The fiber guide 44 is spring-loaded under the bias ox spring 46 situated between fiber guide 44 and retaining ring 22, so as to permit exposure of the fiber end face if through end aperture aye. An internally screw-threaded coupler 34 is rotatable secured to the housing/ longitudinally projecting therefrom to form a female receptacle for a second connector-type termination lo (not shown). Ring 38 secures coupler 34 in a fixed rotative position.
In preferable form, the longitudinal extent (tip 44b~ of giber guide 44 is tapered and tenants at aperture aye. This permits fiber guide 44 to serve as an insertion-type element to project fiber end face if into the desired mating connector.
In accordance with the invention, sl.idahly secured -to the outer surface of giber guide 44 is shroud 50. The shroud 50 is formed of strong, resilient material, preferably beryllium copper or other suitable material that is ~ormea to the shape of the tapered tip 44b of fiber guide 44. In order to conform more readily to the shape of the tapered tip 44b, shroud 50 may be slightly arcuate along its transverse axis. Shroud 50 is secured to the housing so as to have a positional bias. For example, the shroud 50 may be mounted by a spring 53 which would position the shroud normally, as shown in Fig. l, wherein the outer edge 51 extends over and covers aperture aye, across -the transverse extent of liken guide 44. It is contemplated that any well-known biasing means may be employed, spring biasing being disclosed only by way of .,, I: :
-.:.. : ..
I, ~Z3S3~9 1 example. A further example would be to form shroud 50 of material having natural biasing tendencies so that the shroud would resiliently recover to the position shown in Fig. 1 upon removal of external forces.
The inner extent (oppositely directed from the outer edge 51) of shroud 50 includes an upwardly depending shoulder 52 which is constructed to abut -the outer extent of a second connector housing as described hereinafter.
Fig. 2 shows the connector of Fig. 1 engaged with and connected to a second optical housing. In the present example, central housing 60 is shown, which can be any simple connector-type termination apparatus or connecting two optical fibers.
Central housing 60 includes a central opening lo aye defining an outer annular surface 61 for insertion into the female receptacle formed by coupler 34. Central opening 61 thereby accepts fiber guide 44. The external edge of central housing 60 is screw-threaded for screw-type connection with internally threaded coupler 34 of housing 20.
Having herein described the structure of the present invention, its operation will now be described.
With shroud member 50 in its normal position so that outer edge 51 closes aperture aye of fiber guide 44, central housing 60 may be inserted into the chamber defined by the coupler 34. Rotation of coupler 34 will force central housing 60 inwardly due to the threaded relation between the members. This inward movement will force outer annular surface 61 to abut shoulder 52 of shroud 50.
Further rotation of coupler 34 will impart further inward movement of central sousing 60, thereby driving in shoulder 52 and moving shroud 50 from its normal position to a position as shown in Fig. 2, wherein aperture aye is now exposed. Fiber 12 now is in the connected position.
As can be seen, aperture aye will remain covered and protected by shroud 50 until ultimate connection takes .
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1~3533b~
1 place. Similarly, upon disconnection, by removal of central housing 60 from coupler 34 and thereby removing the resistance to the biasing tendencies ox shroud 50, Shari 50 will return to its normal position covering aperture aye under the influence of the spring bias 53.
Fig. 3 shows an alternative embodiment of the present invention. The connector, fiber guide, housing etc., are all substantially similar to those described with reference to Figs. 1 and 2. For simplification of description, with respect to Figs 3 and 4, those elements 'naming similar characteristics will be denoted by similar reference numerals by the addition of 100 to the reference numerals of Figs. 1 and 2. As an example, fiber guide 144 of Figs. 3 and 4 is similar to Fiber guide I of Figs. 1 and 2.
Shroud member 150 in accordance with this embodiment of the invention as shown in Fig. 3, is substantially Shaped having a longitudinal portion 153 and a transverse portion 157 extending from the outer edge - 20 of longitudinal portion 153. As with shroud 50 of Figs.
1 and 2, shroud 150 can be arcuate across its transverse length so as to conform to fiber guide 1440 Centrally located in transverse portion 157 is an aperture aye, having an opening which is at least as large as aperture aye of fiber guide 144.
Shroud 150 is pivotal secured at its longitu-dial edge opposite from the transverse portion to the outer surface of fiber guide 144. The longitudinal portion 153 extends substantially along the length of the fiber guide 144 and transverse portion 157 extends transversely across tip 144b. Shroud Cowan be attached to the outer surface of fiber guide 144 by any well known Sacramento means, such as, for example, a spot weld, or solder.
In order to provide the resilient qualities desired, shroud 150 it constructed of material which is known to have natural longitudinal resilience, or the .~, ,, assess I ability to recover its original shape after external Russ it released. As an example, a material such us beryllium copper can be employed which, after being flexed about the pivot point, will return -to its original position.
In normal position, shroud 150 is positioned so that the longitudinal member 153 secured at pivot point aye extends up at an angle as measured from the longitudinal axis of fiber guide 144. Transverse member 157 will then extend down so that the lower edge aye will cover aperture aye of fiber guide 144. Thus, aperture aye and aperture aye will be non-aligned.
Fig. 4 shows connector 120 connected to central housing 160. Shroud 150, urged downward by central housing 160 is in open position with aperture aye being aligned with aperture aye.
With reference to Figs 3 and 4, the present modification operates as follows:
Shroud 150 being in normal position as above described, is engaged by the central housing 160 to be connected. The inside wall of central housing 160 abuts - the longitudinal extent of shroud 150 and urges the shroud downwardly against the fiber guide 144 upon inward movement of the central housing r occasioned by rotation of coupler 134. When the central housing has been tightly connected to the connector 120, longitudinal portion 153 of shroud 150 will lie relatively flat along the outer surface of fiber guide 144. The corresponding movement of transverse member 157 will cause alignment of aperture aye and aperture aye, exposing optical fiber 112 for connection.
Similarly, upon disconnection, ire., removing the central housing 160, which is holding shroud 150 against fiber guide 144, the resilient tendencies of shroud 150 will return it to its normal position, thereby covering aperture aye as it is no longer aligned with aperture aye.
The particularly described embodiments are :
::
:
.
' , " I, ' ''`' .~3S3~
1 disclosed by way of example and illustration and are trot intended to limit the scope of the invention. The scope of the invention is set forth in the appending claims.
:
::
'
Connector 20 is a fiber optic cable connector which terminates a conventional cable 10 including optical PA -~353~
l Eyebrow Lo or connectiorl with a secor1cl optical fiber. Thy connector 20 includes an outer housing on which keynote a retainer ring 22, and a surrounding ferrule 18 or accomtno--dating the cable and fiber. An end cap 24 secures the retaining ring and ferrule yin place in the housing. A
fiber guide 44, also contained in housing 30, accepts the extending fiber 12, securing relative longitudinal orientation. The fiber guide 44 is spring-loaded under the bias ox spring 46 situated between fiber guide 44 and retaining ring 22, so as to permit exposure of the fiber end face if through end aperture aye. An internally screw-threaded coupler 34 is rotatable secured to the housing/ longitudinally projecting therefrom to form a female receptacle for a second connector-type termination lo (not shown). Ring 38 secures coupler 34 in a fixed rotative position.
In preferable form, the longitudinal extent (tip 44b~ of giber guide 44 is tapered and tenants at aperture aye. This permits fiber guide 44 to serve as an insertion-type element to project fiber end face if into the desired mating connector.
In accordance with the invention, sl.idahly secured -to the outer surface of giber guide 44 is shroud 50. The shroud 50 is formed of strong, resilient material, preferably beryllium copper or other suitable material that is ~ormea to the shape of the tapered tip 44b of fiber guide 44. In order to conform more readily to the shape of the tapered tip 44b, shroud 50 may be slightly arcuate along its transverse axis. Shroud 50 is secured to the housing so as to have a positional bias. For example, the shroud 50 may be mounted by a spring 53 which would position the shroud normally, as shown in Fig. l, wherein the outer edge 51 extends over and covers aperture aye, across -the transverse extent of liken guide 44. It is contemplated that any well-known biasing means may be employed, spring biasing being disclosed only by way of .,, I: :
-.:.. : ..
I, ~Z3S3~9 1 example. A further example would be to form shroud 50 of material having natural biasing tendencies so that the shroud would resiliently recover to the position shown in Fig. 1 upon removal of external forces.
The inner extent (oppositely directed from the outer edge 51) of shroud 50 includes an upwardly depending shoulder 52 which is constructed to abut -the outer extent of a second connector housing as described hereinafter.
Fig. 2 shows the connector of Fig. 1 engaged with and connected to a second optical housing. In the present example, central housing 60 is shown, which can be any simple connector-type termination apparatus or connecting two optical fibers.
Central housing 60 includes a central opening lo aye defining an outer annular surface 61 for insertion into the female receptacle formed by coupler 34. Central opening 61 thereby accepts fiber guide 44. The external edge of central housing 60 is screw-threaded for screw-type connection with internally threaded coupler 34 of housing 20.
Having herein described the structure of the present invention, its operation will now be described.
With shroud member 50 in its normal position so that outer edge 51 closes aperture aye of fiber guide 44, central housing 60 may be inserted into the chamber defined by the coupler 34. Rotation of coupler 34 will force central housing 60 inwardly due to the threaded relation between the members. This inward movement will force outer annular surface 61 to abut shoulder 52 of shroud 50.
Further rotation of coupler 34 will impart further inward movement of central sousing 60, thereby driving in shoulder 52 and moving shroud 50 from its normal position to a position as shown in Fig. 2, wherein aperture aye is now exposed. Fiber 12 now is in the connected position.
As can be seen, aperture aye will remain covered and protected by shroud 50 until ultimate connection takes .
: :
1~3533b~
1 place. Similarly, upon disconnection, by removal of central housing 60 from coupler 34 and thereby removing the resistance to the biasing tendencies ox shroud 50, Shari 50 will return to its normal position covering aperture aye under the influence of the spring bias 53.
Fig. 3 shows an alternative embodiment of the present invention. The connector, fiber guide, housing etc., are all substantially similar to those described with reference to Figs. 1 and 2. For simplification of description, with respect to Figs 3 and 4, those elements 'naming similar characteristics will be denoted by similar reference numerals by the addition of 100 to the reference numerals of Figs. 1 and 2. As an example, fiber guide 144 of Figs. 3 and 4 is similar to Fiber guide I of Figs. 1 and 2.
Shroud member 150 in accordance with this embodiment of the invention as shown in Fig. 3, is substantially Shaped having a longitudinal portion 153 and a transverse portion 157 extending from the outer edge - 20 of longitudinal portion 153. As with shroud 50 of Figs.
1 and 2, shroud 150 can be arcuate across its transverse length so as to conform to fiber guide 1440 Centrally located in transverse portion 157 is an aperture aye, having an opening which is at least as large as aperture aye of fiber guide 144.
Shroud 150 is pivotal secured at its longitu-dial edge opposite from the transverse portion to the outer surface of fiber guide 144. The longitudinal portion 153 extends substantially along the length of the fiber guide 144 and transverse portion 157 extends transversely across tip 144b. Shroud Cowan be attached to the outer surface of fiber guide 144 by any well known Sacramento means, such as, for example, a spot weld, or solder.
In order to provide the resilient qualities desired, shroud 150 it constructed of material which is known to have natural longitudinal resilience, or the .~, ,, assess I ability to recover its original shape after external Russ it released. As an example, a material such us beryllium copper can be employed which, after being flexed about the pivot point, will return -to its original position.
In normal position, shroud 150 is positioned so that the longitudinal member 153 secured at pivot point aye extends up at an angle as measured from the longitudinal axis of fiber guide 144. Transverse member 157 will then extend down so that the lower edge aye will cover aperture aye of fiber guide 144. Thus, aperture aye and aperture aye will be non-aligned.
Fig. 4 shows connector 120 connected to central housing 160. Shroud 150, urged downward by central housing 160 is in open position with aperture aye being aligned with aperture aye.
With reference to Figs 3 and 4, the present modification operates as follows:
Shroud 150 being in normal position as above described, is engaged by the central housing 160 to be connected. The inside wall of central housing 160 abuts - the longitudinal extent of shroud 150 and urges the shroud downwardly against the fiber guide 144 upon inward movement of the central housing r occasioned by rotation of coupler 134. When the central housing has been tightly connected to the connector 120, longitudinal portion 153 of shroud 150 will lie relatively flat along the outer surface of fiber guide 144. The corresponding movement of transverse member 157 will cause alignment of aperture aye and aperture aye, exposing optical fiber 112 for connection.
Similarly, upon disconnection, ire., removing the central housing 160, which is holding shroud 150 against fiber guide 144, the resilient tendencies of shroud 150 will return it to its normal position, thereby covering aperture aye as it is no longer aligned with aperture aye.
The particularly described embodiments are :
::
:
.
' , " I, ' ''`' .~3S3~
1 disclosed by way of example and illustration and are trot intended to limit the scope of the invention. The scope of the invention is set forth in the appending claims.
:
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Claims (8)
PROPERTY OR PRIVILEGE IS CLAIMED ARE DEFINED AS FOLLOWS:
1. An apparatus for connecting optical elements com-prising:
an elongate housing having a central axial bore extending therethrough for receipt of a terminal end of one said optical element, said housing including an end portion having an end aperture axially aligned and in communication with said bore;
connecting means inclusive of said one end of said housing for connecting said housing to a second optical element; and a resilient shroud member mounted on said housing, said shroud member having an engagement portion adjacent said aperture adapted to be engaged upon connection of said housing to said second optical element, said shroud being resilient-ly movable upon engagement of said engagement portion from a first position wherein said bore is closed thereby pre-venting entry of contaminents into said bore to a second position wherein said bore is opened.
an elongate housing having a central axial bore extending therethrough for receipt of a terminal end of one said optical element, said housing including an end portion having an end aperture axially aligned and in communication with said bore;
connecting means inclusive of said one end of said housing for connecting said housing to a second optical element; and a resilient shroud member mounted on said housing, said shroud member having an engagement portion adjacent said aperture adapted to be engaged upon connection of said housing to said second optical element, said shroud being resilient-ly movable upon engagement of said engagement portion from a first position wherein said bore is closed thereby pre-venting entry of contaminents into said bore to a second position wherein said bore is opened.
2. The combination in accordance with claim 1, includ-ing a spring attached at one end to said housing and at the other end to said engagement portion and wherein said spring is biased to move said shroud between said first and second positions.
3. The combination in accordance with claim 1, wherein said first and second optical elements are optical fibers and said housing includes an optical fiber connector.
4. A combinabion in accordance with claim 1, wherein said shroud further comprises:
an elongate portion secured at one end to the outer surface of said housing; and a lateral portion depending from the other end of said elongate portion, across said housing aperture, said lateral portion including a shroud aperature disposed to be in non-alignment with said housing aperture in said first position and aligned with said housing aperture in said second position.
an elongate portion secured at one end to the outer surface of said housing; and a lateral portion depending from the other end of said elongate portion, across said housing aperture, said lateral portion including a shroud aperature disposed to be in non-alignment with said housing aperture in said first position and aligned with said housing aperture in said second position.
5. The combination in accordance with claim 4, wherein said shroud is flexibly mounted at a pivot point at said one end of said elongate portion and said engagement portion includes a raised juncture area where said elongate portion forms said lateral portion.
6. The combination in accordance with claim 5, wherein said one optical element includes an optical fiber contained in a cable and said connecting means includes an optical cable connector; and wherein said second optical element includes a second optical fiber contained in a cable and a connector for connection with the first said optical fiber, said engagement portion being responsive to the connection and disconnection of said first and second optical connect-ors.
7. The combination in accordance with claim 1, wherein said shroud is movable to said first-position upon connection of said optical elements and movable to said second position upon disconnection of said optical elements.
8. The combination in accordance with claim 6, wherein said shroud is movable to said first position upon connection of said first and second optical fibers and movable to said second position upon disconnection of said optical flubbers.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US33271681A | 1981-12-21 | 1981-12-21 | |
| US332,716 | 1981-12-21 |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA1235319A true CA1235319A (en) | 1988-04-19 |
Family
ID=23299546
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000417701A Expired CA1235319A (en) | 1981-12-21 | 1982-12-14 | Movable closure for optical elements |
Country Status (6)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| JP (1) | JPS58122511A (en) |
| CA (1) | CA1235319A (en) |
| DE (2) | DE8235227U1 (en) |
| FR (1) | FR2518762B1 (en) |
| GB (1) | GB2112173B (en) |
| HK (1) | HK61790A (en) |
Families Citing this family (17)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DE3235174A1 (en) * | 1982-09-23 | 1984-03-29 | Standard Elektrik Lorenz Ag, 7000 Stuttgart | Plug-in connector for optical waveguides |
| GB2154333B (en) * | 1984-01-25 | 1987-11-25 | Int Standard Electric Corp | Connector coupling for optical waveguides |
| JP2538156B2 (en) * | 1991-12-11 | 1996-09-25 | 本田技研工業株式会社 | Work pallet clamp device for machine tools |
| AU658999B2 (en) * | 1992-05-20 | 1995-05-04 | Diamond S.A. | Plug connector for optical fibers |
| EP0570652B1 (en) * | 1992-05-20 | 1996-04-03 | Diamond S.A. | Connector for optical fibres |
| DE4229511C2 (en) * | 1992-09-04 | 1995-03-30 | Siemens Ag | Shading device for fiber optic connectors |
| DE4237499C1 (en) * | 1992-11-06 | 1994-04-28 | Telegaertner Geraetebau Gmbh | Connector for releasable coupling of optical fibres - comprises base element with outer collar and sleeve element with cooperating inner projection |
| US5738535A (en) * | 1996-03-07 | 1998-04-14 | Ocean Design, Inc. | Underwater connector |
| EP0838702B1 (en) * | 1996-10-28 | 2006-10-25 | Diamond SA | Connector for an optical connection |
| US6142676A (en) * | 1997-05-20 | 2000-11-07 | Adc Telecommunications, Inc. | Fiber connector and adaptor |
| US5883995A (en) | 1997-05-20 | 1999-03-16 | Adc Telecommunications, Inc. | Fiber connector and adapter |
| DE10108783A1 (en) * | 2001-02-23 | 2002-09-05 | Delphi Tech Inc | Plug connector for light conductor has part with protective cap for protecting ferrule that is spring-loaded in closed position and movable over defined region to expose light conductor end |
| DE10108782A1 (en) * | 2001-02-23 | 2002-09-05 | Delphi Tech Inc | Plug connector for light conductor has divided protective flap that is spring-loaded in closed position and movable relative to first connector part over defined region |
| DE50210456D1 (en) * | 2001-03-01 | 2007-08-23 | Huber+Suhner Ag | FIBER OPTIC CONNECTOR SYSTEM |
| JP3470320B1 (en) * | 2002-10-24 | 2003-11-25 | 日本航空電子工業株式会社 | Optical connector device |
| JP3987078B2 (en) | 2005-08-31 | 2007-10-03 | 日本電信電話株式会社 | Optical connector |
| US9057864B2 (en) | 2013-08-02 | 2015-06-16 | Teledyne Instruments, Inc. | Harsh environment connector with seal closure assisting device |
Family Cites Families (7)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DE2734522A1 (en) * | 1977-07-30 | 1979-02-15 | Bosch Gmbh Robert | Optical light radiation protection - is for optical plug device in glass fibre transfer sections and acts automatically on photoconductive side of plug |
| US4162119A (en) * | 1977-11-18 | 1979-07-24 | International Telephone And Telegraph Corporation | Fiber optic position indicator |
| US4218113A (en) * | 1978-08-21 | 1980-08-19 | International Business Machines Corporation | Optical fiber connector apparatus |
| DE2845420C2 (en) * | 1978-10-18 | 1984-11-08 | Bunker Ramo Corp., Oak Brook, Ill. | Fiber optic plug connection |
| JPS5659212A (en) * | 1979-10-19 | 1981-05-22 | Olympus Optical Co Ltd | Optical connector for laser apparatus |
| US4378145A (en) * | 1980-03-03 | 1983-03-29 | Thomas & Betts Corporation | Method and apparatus for joining optical elements |
| JPS56151909A (en) * | 1980-04-25 | 1981-11-25 | Fujitsu Ltd | Optical connector |
-
1982
- 1982-12-14 CA CA000417701A patent/CA1235319A/en not_active Expired
- 1982-12-15 DE DE19828235227U patent/DE8235227U1/en not_active Expired
- 1982-12-15 DE DE19823246401 patent/DE3246401A1/en active Granted
- 1982-12-20 GB GB08236211A patent/GB2112173B/en not_active Expired
- 1982-12-21 JP JP57223117A patent/JPS58122511A/en active Granted
- 1982-12-21 FR FR8221456A patent/FR2518762B1/en not_active Expired
-
1990
- 1990-08-09 HK HK617/90A patent/HK61790A/en unknown
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| DE3246401C2 (en) | 1987-04-23 |
| GB2112173B (en) | 1985-08-14 |
| DE3246401A1 (en) | 1983-07-07 |
| FR2518762B1 (en) | 1987-12-24 |
| GB2112173A (en) | 1983-07-13 |
| FR2518762A1 (en) | 1983-06-24 |
| JPH0381128B2 (en) | 1991-12-27 |
| HK61790A (en) | 1990-08-17 |
| DE8235227U1 (en) | 1983-06-09 |
| JPS58122511A (en) | 1983-07-21 |
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| MKEX | Expiry |