CN112987189B

CN112987189B - Optical fiber hybrid adapter and connector assembly

Info

Publication number: CN112987189B
Application number: CN202110229523.3A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 高野一义; K·黄
Original assignee: Senko Advanced Components Inc
Current assignee: Senko Advanced Components Inc
Priority date: 2016-01-28
Filing date: 2016-01-28
Publication date: 2023-06-09
Anticipated expiration: 2036-01-28
Also published as: EP3408700A4; TW201800786A; CN111948758A; EP3408700A1; CN108603987A; CN112987189A; WO2017131717A1; TWI733736B

Abstract

A fiber optic connection assembly is generally described that may include a hybrid adapter and connector assembly. The hybrid adapter can be configured to connect a first connector type and a second connector type, the first connector type being different from the second connector type. For example, the first connector type may be a micro connector and the second connector type may be an LC connector. The connector assembly may be configured as a miniature connector with a tensioning element configured to facilitate optimal optical performance by spring loading the ferrule while maintaining a small form factor.

Description

Optical fiber hybrid adapter and connector assembly

The present application is a divisional application of the invention patent application entitled "optical fiber hybrid adapter and connector assembly", international application number PCT/US2016/015444, international application number 201680080282.8, month 1 and 28.

Technical Field

The described technology relates generally to components for connecting data transmission elements, and more particularly to adapters configured to connect different types of fiber optic connectors and connector assemblies configured to facilitate optimal performance of connections formed within the adapters.

Background

Optical fibers have become the standard cabling medium used in data centers to meet the increasing demands for data volume, transmission speed, and low loss. An optical fiber connector is a mechanical device arranged at the end of an optical fiber, which serves as a connector for an optical path, for example, when joining optical fibers together. The fiber optic connectors may be coupled with adapters to connect fiber optic cables to other fiber optic cables or devices. The adapter may generally include a housing having at least one port configured to receive and retain a connector to facilitate optical connection of one connector to another connector or device. For example, LC adapters are typically configured to receive one or more standard sized LC connectors.

Hybrid adapters (hybrid adapters) are configured to join different types of fiber optic connectors. At least one disadvantage of conventional hybrid adapters is that they are configured to couple two full-size connectors, resulting in bulky adapter ends and thus taking up excessive space on both sides of the adapter. This is a major disadvantage in most hybrid adapter applications when it is desired to arrange one end of the adapter within a small module, as both the corresponding adapter end and connector occupy excessive space within the module.

Some conventional hybrid adapters have been designed to be suitable for coupling standard full-size fiber optic connectors with simplified fiber optic connectors. The simplified fiber optic connector is simply a ferrule that may or may not have a metal flange assembled to the ferrule for terminating the end of the fiber. At least one disadvantage of such hybrid adapters is that the simplified connector is rigidly held within the adapter. However, for optimum optical performance, the mating ferrules should be floating and subjected to spring pressure that urges the end faces of the mating ferrules together. Unlike standard sized fiber optic connectors that include extension springs preloaded behind the ferrule to allow the ferrule to float, the simplified fiber optic connector may not include springs located behind the ferrule. Thus, the simplified fiber stub will be rigidly held within one end of the adapter and the connection made by the hybrid adapter will be affected by the performance degradation.

Thus, there is a need for a hybrid fiber optic adapter that occupies less space than conventional hybrid adapters, and that simultaneously achieves better optical performance by providing springs or spring-like compression to allow the ferrule to float.

Disclosure of Invention

The present disclosure is not limited to the particular systems, devices, and methods described, as such may vary. The terminology used in the description is for the purpose of describing particular implementations or embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting in scope.

As used in this document, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein shall have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. Nothing in this disclosure should be construed as an admission that the embodiments described in this disclosure are not entitled to antedate such disclosure by virtue of prior invention. As used in this document, the term "comprising" means "including but not limited to.

In one embodiment, a fiber optic connection assembly may include a hybrid adapter and at least one first fiber optic connector. The hybrid adapter may include: a first adapter end configured to couple to a first connector type; a second adapter end configured to couple to a second connector type different from the first connector type; and at least one mating component disposed on the first adapter end. The at least one first optical fiber connector may include: a mating housing configured to couple the at least one first fiber optic connector to a second adapter end; and a tension element disposed between the mating housing and the second adapter end, the tension element configured to facilitate floating of the at least one first fiber optic connector.

In one embodiment, a fiber optic hybrid adapter may include: a first adapter end configured to couple to a first connector type; a second adapter end configured to couple to a second connector type different from the first connector type; and at least one mating component disposed on the first adapter end, wherein the mating component is configurable to couple to at least one first fiber optic connector. The at least one first optical fiber connector may include: a mating housing configured to couple the at least one first fiber optic connector to a second adapter end; and a tensioning element disposed between the mating housing and the second adapter end, the tensioning element configured to facilitate floating of the at least one first fiber optic connector.

Drawings

The foregoing and other objects of the invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description, which is set forth in connection with the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1A is an exploded view of a prior art SC-FC hybrid adapter.

FIG. 1B is a perspective view of the assembled SC-FC hybrid adapter of FIG. 1A.

Fig. 1C is a perspective view of an LC-LC adapter.

Fig. 2A is an exploded view of a prior art microcircuit board adapter.

Fig. 2B is a perspective view of the assembled prior art microcircuit board adapter of fig. 2A.

Fig. 3A and 3B illustrate an exemplary connection assembly according to a first embodiment.

Fig. 4A and 4B illustrate an exemplary hybrid adapter according to a first embodiment.

Fig. 5A and 5B illustrate an exemplary connector assembly according to a first embodiment.

Fig. 6 shows an exemplary mating element of the connector assembly according to the first embodiment.

Fig. 7A and 7B illustrate an exemplary ferrule flange of a connector assembly according to a first embodiment.

Fig. 8A-8F illustrate an exemplary tensioning element of a connector assembly according to a first embodiment.

Fig. 9A-9F illustrate an exemplary tensioning element of a connector assembly according to a second embodiment.

Fig. 10A-10E illustrate an exemplary tensioning element of a connector assembly according to a third embodiment.

Fig. 11A-11D illustrate an exemplary connection assembly according to a first embodiment.

Fig. 12A and 12B illustrate an exemplary connection assembly according to a second embodiment.

Fig. 13A and 13B illustrate an exemplary hybrid adapter according to a second embodiment.

Fig. 14A and 14B illustrate an exemplary connector assembly according to a second embodiment.

Fig. 15A-15E illustrate exemplary mating elements of a connector assembly according to a second embodiment.

Fig. 16A-16F illustrate an exemplary connection assembly according to a second embodiment.

Fig. 17A-17I illustrate an exemplary connection assembly according to a second embodiment.

Detailed Description

The described technology relates generally to hybrid fiber optic adapters and fiber optic connectors configured to couple thereto. In some embodiments, the hybrid adapter may be configured to occupy less space within the module, for example, than conventional hybrid adapters, while facilitating optimal optical performance. In some embodiments, optimized optical performance is achieved by spring loading a ferrule of a fiber optic connector coupled to a hybrid adapter, thereby allowing the ferrule to float and securely fix the ferrule within the adapter.

Fig. 1A shows one example of a hybrid adapter for SC and FC type connectors. The SC-FC hybrid adapter 100 is configured to be mounted on a mounting panel 102 using mounting screws 104. SC-FC hybrid adapter 100 includes a first adapter end 106 configured to receive SC connector 108 and a second adapter end 110 configured to receive FC connector 112. The second adapter end 110 is configured to pass through the opening 114 of the mounting panel 102, thereby allowing receipt of each of the SC and FC connectors from opposite sides of the mounting panel. FIG. 1B illustrates the SC-FC hybrid adapter 100 of FIG. 1A assembled to the mounting panel 102 and coupled to each of the SC connector 108 and the FC connector 112.

Fig. 1C shows one example of a hybrid adapter for an LC-type connector, such as a duplex LC-type connector. LC-LC adapter 120 is configured to be mounted on mounting panel 122. LC-LC adapter 120 includes a first adapter end 124 configured to receive a first LC connector 128 and a second adapter end 126 configured to receive a second LC connector 130. The second adapter end 126 is configured to pass through an opening 132 of the mounting panel 122, thereby allowing each of the first LC connector 128 and the second LC connector 130 to be received from opposite sides of the mounting panel.

One disadvantage of conventional adapters as shown in fig. 1A-1C is that they are bulky, taking up too much space on both sides of the adapter. In particular, they are configured to couple to full-size connectors, and thus the corresponding adapter ends are bulky. This is a disadvantage, for example, when one end of the adapter is intended to be arranged within a small module, since both the corresponding adapter end and the connector will take up too much space within the module. Thus, instead of coupling to two full-size connectors, some adapters have been designed to be suitable for coupling standard full-size fiber optic connectors with one simplified fiber optic connector or two simplified fiber optic connectors. The simplified fiber optic connector is simply a ferrule that may or may not have a metal flange assembled to the ferrule and used to terminate the end of the optical fiber.

For example, U.S. patent No. 5719977, entitled "optical connector with immovable ferrule (Optical Connector with Immovable Ferrule)", discloses an adapter configured to couple to a standard size connector at one end and to a simplified fiber optic connector at the other end. However, a disadvantage of such a hybrid adapter is that the simplified connector is rigidly held within the adapter. Unlike standard-sized fiber optic connectors that allow the ferrule to float and also include a tension spring preloaded behind the ferrule, the simplified fiber optic connector may not include a spring located behind the ferrule. Thus, the ferrule will be rigidly held within one end of the adapter. However, for optimum optical performance, the mating ferrules should be floating and subjected to spring pressure that urges the end faces of the mating ferrules together. For example, fig. 2A shows a miniature circuit board adapter that includes a ferrule alignment body 200 disposed within a ferrule spring 202. The ferrule spring 202 is mounted to the circuit board 204 via solder apertures 206. The ferrule alignment body 200 is configured to receive a microconnector 208 at each end. Fig. 2B shows the assembled adapter coupled to two microconnectors such that each microconnector is disposed between a respective end of the ferrule alignment body 200 and a respective end of the ferrule spring 202. However, the adapter shown in fig. 2A and 2B is not a hybrid adapter, which is designed for mounting directly on a circuit board rather than coupling an external fiber optic connector to a connector disposed within the module.

As used herein, the term "optical fiber" shall apply to all types of single-mode and multi-mode optical waveguides including one or more bare optical fibers, coated optical fibers, loose tube optical fibers, tight buffered optical fibers, ribbon optical fibers, bend performance optical fibers, bend insensitive optical fibers, nanostructured optical fibers, or any other means for transmitting optical signals. The term fiber optic cable may also include a multi-fiber cable having a plurality of optical fibers.

The terminal ends of the cables may include connectors for connecting the cables together or for connecting the cables to other fiber optic devices. The connector may include a housing structure configured to interact with and connect with the adapter. A simple form of adapter may include two aligned ports for aligning fiber optic connectors therein to align and connect optical fibers end-to-end. The hybrid adapter can be configured to couple different types of fiber optic connectors. The hybrid fiber optic adapter and corresponding fiber optic connector may be referred to as a "connection assembly".

Various embodiments disclosed herein provide a hybrid adapter that uses minimal space at least at one end of the hybrid adapter. In some embodiments, the hybrid adapter may be configured to be disposed in a module, apparatus, device, behind-wall application, or the like. In some embodiments, the hybrid adapter can be configured to receive a miniature fiber optic connector or a simplified fiber optic connector. This is an ideal feature for modules or devices having very little space inside the module and further reduces or even eliminates obstructions inside the module that may block the optimal airflow required to cool the electronic circuits within the module. In contrast, prior art adapters such as the adapters shown in fig. 1A-1C have bulky ends, both of which are configured to receive standard sized connectors. The various embodiments disclosed herein require less space within the module and do not sacrifice optical performance by supporting the ferrule with springs and allowing it to float and securely secure the fiber optic connector to the adapter. Additionally, due to the relatively small form factor, hybrid adapters constructed in accordance with some embodiments may be stackable while still allowing an installer to remove and/or install the connector.

Fig. 3A shows an exploded view of an exemplary connection assembly according to a first embodiment. Fig. 3B shows a side view of an assembled exemplary connection assembly according to the first embodiment. As shown in fig. 3A and 3B, the connection assembly 300 may include a hybrid adapter 305 having a first end 301 and a second end 302. The first end 301 can be configured to couple to one or more connectors having a first connector type and the second end 302 can be configured to couple to one or more connectors having a second connector type that is different from the first connector type. In some embodiments, the first end 301 can be configured to couple to a micro connector, while the second end 302 can be configured to couple to a standard size connector, such as an LC connector. Although micro-connectors and LC connectors are used in the exemplary embodiments herein, embodiments are not so limited, as any type of connector capable of operating in accordance with some embodiments is contemplated herein.

In the exemplary embodiment shown in fig. 3A, the second end 302 can be configured to couple to an LC connector, such as a duplex LC connector having two LC connector plugs 340a, 340 b. The LC connector plugs 340a, 340b may have

ferrules

350a, 350b, each ferrule 350a, 350b terminating a

fiber optic cable

335a, 335b disposed therein. In some embodiments, LC connector plugs 340a, 340b may be coupled to second end 302 via

catches

345a, 345b disposed on LC connector plugs 340a, 340 b.

The first end 301 can be configured to couple to miniature (or "simplified")

connectors

360a, 360b. The first end 301 may include a connector interface with

sleeve holders

310a, 310b, the

sleeve holders

310a, 310b including

alignment keys

320a, 320b. The

sleeve retainer

310a, 310b can be configured to receive a sleeve (or "alignment sleeve") 355a, 355b within a

port

315a, 315b disposed therein. The

sleeves

355a, 355b may be configured to facilitate alignment of the

ferrules

365a, 365b with the

ferrules

350a, 350b within the adapter. The

mating components

325a, 325b may be configured to facilitate coupling of the first end 301 to the

connector assemblies

360a, 360b.

The

connector assemblies

360a, 360b may include

ferrules

365a, 365b that terminate the

optical cables

335c, 335d extending therethrough. In some embodiments, the

connector assemblies

360a, 360b may include

mating housings

370a, 370b, tensioning elements 380a, and

ferrule flanges

385a, 385b. In some embodiments, tensioning element 380a may be formed from a polymeric material, a metallic material, a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the tensioning element 380a may be formed from aluminum, steel, sheet metal material, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the

mating housing

370a, 370b may be configured as a bayonet connector, such as a slot-based bayonet

connector having slots

375a, 375b, the

slots

375a, 375b configured to couple the

mating housing

370a, 370b to the

mating component

325a, 325b by rotatably engaging the posts (or "bayonet posts") 330 a-c.

Fig. 4A and 4B show an isometric view and a side view, respectively, of an exemplary mixing adapter 305 according to a first embodiment. Fig. 5A and 5B illustrate an exploded isometric view and an assembled isometric view of an exemplary connector assembly 360a according to a first embodiment. As shown in fig. 5A and 5B, the ferrule flange 385A may include a keyway 505. In some embodiments, the use of the alignment key 320a and corresponding keyway 505 may allow the connection assembly 300 to be used for Angled Physical Contact (APC) applications and super physical contact (UPC) applications. In some embodiments, the keyway 505 can be configured to correspond to the alignment key 320a for aligning the ferrule flange 385a and/or preventing rotation thereof when the connector assembly 360a is coupled to the mixing adapter 305. The tensioning element 380a may be disposed between the mating housing 370a and the ferrule flange 385a. The tensioning element 380a may, for example, allow the connector assembly 360a to be spring loaded (or "floating") ("miniature" or "simplified" connector, which is not spring loaded according to conventional techniques) while maintaining a small form factor of the miniature or simplified connector. Fig. 6 shows an exemplary mating housing 370a according to a first embodiment that includes

bayonet slots

375a, 375c, the

bayonet slots

375a, 375c configured to form a bayonet connection with

mating components

325a, 325b of the mixing adapter 305. Fig. 7A and 7B show front and rear isometric views, respectively, of an exemplary ferrule flange 385 according to a first embodiment.

The

tensioning elements

380a, 380b may have various shapes and sizes. In some embodiments, the

tensioning elements

380a, 380b may have a conventional spring shape, such as the springs used in typical LC connectors. Fig. 8A-8F show a tensioning element 385a according to a first embodiment ("wave" spring embodiment). Fig. 8E shows a cross-sectional view through line Y-Y of fig. 8D, and fig. 8F shows a cross-sectional view through line X-X of fig. 8D. Fig. 9A-9F show a tensioning element 385a according to a second embodiment ("bending" embodiment of the spring). Fig. 9E shows a cross-sectional view through line Y-Y of fig. 9D, and fig. 9F shows a cross-sectional view through line X-X of fig. 9D. Fig. 10A-10E show a tensioning element 385a according to a third embodiment. Fig. 10E shows a cross-sectional view through line K-K of fig. 9D ("embodiment of a protruding" spring).

Fig. 11A-11D illustrate an exemplary connection assembly according to a first embodiment. In particular, fig. 11A-11D illustrate an exemplary process for connecting the connector assembly 360a to the adapter 305. As shown in fig. 11A and 11B, an installer may align the ferrule 365a with the alignment sleeve 355a and the alignment sleeve holder 310a and begin moving the connector assembly 360a toward the first side 301 of the adapter 305 to place the ferrule within the alignment sleeve. As shown in fig. 11C and 11D, the connector assembly 360a can be positioned on the mating component 325a in an orientation such that the bayonet posts 330a enter the openings of the bayonet slots 375 a. In addition, the connector assembly 360a can be positioned on the mating component 325a in an orientation such that the alignment key 320a is aligned with the alignment slot 505. The mating component 325a may be rotated to move the bayonet post 330a through the bayonet slot 375a, thereby causing the connector assembly 360a to mate with the mating component 325a and thus with the adapter 305.

Fig. 12A and 12B show an exploded view and an assembled view, respectively, of an exemplary connection assembly 1200 according to a second embodiment. As shown in fig. 12A and 12B, the adapter 1205 may include a connector interface having mating members 1225a, 1225B, the mating members 1225a, 1225B including posts (or "locking posts") 1210a, 1210B and alignment keys 1220a, 1220B. The

connector assemblies

1260a, 1260b may include

mating housings

1270a, 1270b, the

mating housings

1270a, 1270b having

walls

1275a, 1275b and post openings 1290a, 1290b being disposed in the

walls

1275a, 1275 b. The

connector assemblies

1260a, 1260b can be configured to engage the

locking posts

1210a, 1210b via a snap-fit bayonet-type connection.

In some embodiments, the shielding member 1240 may be disposed on the adapter 1205, such as on the first side 301 thereof. In some embodiments, the shielding member 1240 may be configured as an electromagnetic interference (EMI) shield. In some embodiments, the shielding member 1240 may include

openings

1245a, 1245b, the

openings

1245a, 1245b configured to receive the

mating members

1225a, 1225b such that the shielding member may be mounted on the connector interface of the first side 301.

Fig. 13A and 13B show front isometric and side views, respectively, of an exemplary adapter 1205 according to the second embodiment. Fig. 14A and 14B show an assembled view and an exploded view, respectively, of a connector assembly 1260a according to a second embodiment. As shown in fig. 14B, tensioning member 380a may be installed, for example, through an opening between first portion 1271 and second portion 1272 of mating housing 1270a prior to inserting fiber optic cable 335 into ferrule 365 a. Fig. 15A-15B illustrate various views of an exemplary mating housing 1270a according to a second embodiment. Fig. 15A and 15B are isometric views of the mating housing 1270a showing the slot 1230 in the bottom thereof. In some embodiments, the slot 1230 can be configured to receive one or more tools for twisting, rotating, pushing, etc., on the mating housing 1270a, e.g., to mount the mating housing to the adapter 1205 and/or to remove the mating housing from the adapter 1205. Fig. 15C shows a side view of the mating housing 1270a and fig. 15D shows a cross-sectional view through line Y-Y of fig. 15C. As shown in fig. 15D, the angled front surface of the mating housing 1270a facilitates movement of the locking post 1210a into the interior of the mating housing 1270 a. Fig. 15E shows a front view of the mating housing 1270 a. As shown in fig. 15E, the mating housing 1270a may include

housing walls

1540a, 1540b having an asymmetric thickness that allow the locking post 1210a to rotate and move in a horizontal direction, for example, when the mating housing 1270a is separated from the mating member 1225a.

Fig. 16A-16F illustrate an exemplary connection assembly according to a first embodiment. In particular, fig. 16A-16F illustrate an exemplary process for connecting the connector assembly 1260a to the adapter 1205. As shown in fig. 16A and 16B, an installer may align the ferrule 365a with the alignment sleeve 355a and mating component (which may also act as an alignment sleeve holder) 1225a and begin moving the connector assembly 1260a toward the first side 301 of the adapter 1205 to place the ferrule within the alignment sleeve. As shown in fig. 16C and 16D, the connector assembly 1260a can be positioned on the mating component 1225a in an orientation such that the locking post 1210a can engage the wall 1275 a. Fig. 16D shows detail region 1605 of fig. 16C. In addition, the connector assembly 1260a can be positioned on the mating member 1225a in an orientation such that the alignment key 1220a is aligned with the alignment slot 505. As the mating housing 1270a moves over the mating member 1225a, the locking posts 1210a deflect the walls 1275a outwardly until the locking posts enter the corresponding post openings 1290 a. For example, fig. 16E shows a cross-sectional view of locking post 1210a deflecting wall 1275 a. When the locking post 1210a enters the post opening 1290a, the wall 1275a returns to its original position and the mating housing 1270a is coupled to the mating member 1225a. For example, fig. 16F shows a cross-sectional view of the locking post 1210a within the post opening 1290a that causes the mating housing 1270a and thus the connector assembly 1260a to be coupled to the mixing adapter 1205.

Fig. 17A-17I illustrate an exemplary connection assembly according to a first embodiment. In particular, fig. 17A-17I illustrate an exemplary process for disengaging the connector assembly 1260a from the adapter 1205. Fig. 17A and 17B illustrate a mating housing 1270a mounted on a mating member 1225a, such as by disposing a locking post 1210a within a post opening 1290 a. Fig. 17B shows a cross-sectional view through line Y-Y of fig. 17A. Fig. 17C and 17D illustrate the connection assembly 1200 when the mating housing 1270a has been rotated. Fig. 17D shows a cross-sectional view through line Y-Y of fig. 17E. In some embodiments, the mating housing 1270a can be configured to rotate in a single direction, for example, due to the asymmetric thickness of the

housing walls

1540a, 1540b, to release the

locking posts

1210a, 1210c from the post openings 1290 a. Fig. 17E and 17G illustrate the connection assembly 1200 when the mating housing 1270a has been rotated such that the locking

posts

1210a, 1210c have been fully released from the corresponding post openings 1290 a. Fig. 17F shows a cross-sectional view through line Y-Y of fig. 17E, and fig. 17G shows a cross-sectional view through line Z-Z of fig. 17E. Fig. 17H shows the connection assembly 1200 when the mating housing 1270a has been released from the adapter 1205. Fig. 17I shows a cross-sectional view through line Z-Z of fig. 17H.

The various embodiments of the hybrid adapter disclosed herein may also be configured for use with other simplified connectors on one side rather than with miniature connectors. Moreover, instead of duplex LC adapters, embodiments may be configured for use with other standard size adapters (e.g., single LC adapters) on opposite sides.

One advantage of the embodiments of adapters and connectors provided herein is that the size of the adapter on the side protruding within the module is reduced. Another advantage is the inclusion of ferrule springs to allow movement of the ferrule without the need for a full-sized connector on the adapter side, e.g., protruding inside the module. In particular, embodiments provide an LC adapter that has a smaller size inside the module and provides spring-loaded movement for fiber optic ferrules within the module when the adapter is mated externally with a conventional LC connector. Thus, various embodiments require less space inside the module than conventional adapters, and do not sacrifice optical performance.

The various features, components, or configurations described with respect to any of the above embodiments may also be applied to any of the other embodiments provided.

The present disclosure is not limited to the particular systems, devices, and methods described, as such may vary. The terminology used in the description is for the purpose of describing particular aspects or embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting in scope.

In the preceding detailed description, reference has been made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof. In the drawings, like numerals generally refer to like parts unless the context indicates otherwise. The exemplary embodiments described in the detailed description, drawings, and claims are not meant to be limiting. Other embodiments may be utilized, and other modifications may be made, without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject matter presented herein. It will be readily understood that the aspects of the present disclosure, as generally described herein, and illustrated in the figures, can be arranged, substituted, combined, separated, and designed in a wide variety of different configurations, all of which are contemplated as being explicitly contemplated herein.

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

As used in this document, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. Nothing in this disclosure should be construed as an admission that the embodiments described in this disclosure are not entitled to antedate such disclosure by virtue of prior invention. As used in this document, the term "comprising" means "including but not limited to.

Although various combinations, methods, and apparatus have been described with the various components or steps being "included" (interpreted as meaning "including but not limited to"), the combinations, methods, and apparatus can also be "consisting essentially of, or" consisting of, the various components and steps, and such terms should be interpreted as defining a substantially closed-ended group of components.

With respect to the use of substantially any plural and/or singular terms herein, those having skill in the art can translate from the plural to the singular and/or from the singular to the plural as is reasonably required by the context and/or application. For clarity, various singular/plural permutations may be explicitly set forth herein.

It will be understood by those within the art that terms used herein generally, and especially in the appended claims (e.g., bodies of the appended claims) should generally be construed as "open" terms (e.g., the term "including" should be construed as "including but not limited to," the term "having" should be construed as "having at least," the term "comprising" should be construed as "including but not limited to," etc.). It will be further understood by those with skill in the art that if a specific number of an introduced description is intended in the context of a claim, such intent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence of such recitation no such intent is present. For example, as an aid to understanding, the following appended claims may contain usage of the introductory phrases "at least one" and "one or more" to introduce claim limitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed to imply that the introduction of a claim by the indefinite articles "a" or "an" limits any particular claim containing such introduced claim recitation to embodiments containing only one such recitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases "one or more" or "at least one" and indefinite articles such as "a" or "an" (e.g., "a" and/or "an" should be interpreted to mean "at least one" or "one or more"); the same holds true for the use of definite articles used to introduce claim definitions. In addition, even if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly recited, those skilled in the art will recognize that such recitation should be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (e.g., the bare recitation of "two recitations," without other modifiers, means at least two recitations, or two or more recitations). Further, where expressions similar to at least one of "A, B and C, etc. are used, the meaning of such grammatical structures should generally be the meaning of the expressions as understood by those of skill in the art (e.g.," a system having at least one of A, B and C "shall include, but not be limited to, a system having only a, a system having only B, a system having only C, a system having both a and B, a system having both a and C, a system having both B and C, and/or a system having both A, B and C, etc.). Where a convention analogous to "at least one of A, B or C, etc." is used, in general such a construction would have the meaning of the convention understood by one skilled in the art (e.g., "a system having at least one of A, B or C" would include but not be limited to a system having only a, B system having only C, both a and B systems, both a and C systems, both B and C systems, and/or both A, B and C systems, etc.). It should also be understood by those within the art that virtually any alternative term and/or phrase given two or more alternative terms, whether in the specification, claims, or drawings, should be understood to contemplate the possibilities of including one of the terms, or both terms. For example, the phrase "a or B" should be understood to include the possibility of "a" or "B" or "a and B".

In addition, where features or aspects of the present disclosure are described in terms of Markush groups, those skilled in the art will recognize that the present disclosure is also thus described in terms of any individual member or subgroup of members of the Markush group.

As will be understood by those of skill in the art, for any and all purposes, such as in terms of providing a written description, all ranges disclosed herein also encompass any and all possible sub-ranges and combinations of sub-ranges thereof. Any listed range can be readily identified as sufficiently descriptive and so that the same range can be broken down into at least equal halves, thirds, quarters, fifths, tenths, etc. As a non-limiting example, each of the ranges discussed herein can be readily broken down into a lower third, a middle third, an upper third, and the like. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, all language such as "up to", "at least", etc. include the recited values and the referenced ranges may be subsequently broken down into sub-ranges as described above. Finally, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, a range includes each individual member. Thus, for example, a group having 1 to 3 cells refers to a group having 1 cell, 2 cells, or 3 cells. Similarly, a group having 1 to 5 units refers to a group having 1 unit, 2 units, 3 units, 4 units, or 5 units, and so forth.

The various features disclosed above, as well as other features and functions or alternatives thereof, may be desirably combined into many other different systems or applications. Various presently unforeseen or unanticipated alternatives, modifications, variations or improvements therein may be subsequently made by those skilled in the art, each of which is also intended to be encompassed by the disclosed embodiments.

Claims

1. A fiber optic micro-connector for connection to a fiber optic receptacle, the fiber optic micro-connector comprising:

a ferrule holding an optical fiber, the ferrule having a flange;

a housing receiving the ferrule therein, the housing having a connection structure for releasably connecting with the fiber optic receptacle when the fiber optic micro connector is coupled to the fiber optic receptacle; and

a tensioning element biasing the ferrule outwardly from the housing, the tensioning element disposed between the housing and the flange,

wherein the housing includes spaced apart walls and the connection structure is disposed on the spaced apart walls and is configured to snap into locking engagement with the fiber optic receptacle.

2. The fiber optic micro connector of claim 1, wherein the housing has an angled front surface.

3. The fiber optic microconnector of claim 1 wherein the wall has an asymmetric thickness.

4. The fiber optic micro connector of claim 1, wherein the housing is provided with a slot at a bottom.

5. The fiber optic micro connector of claim 1, wherein the tension element comprises a spring.

6. The fiber optic micro connector of claim 5, wherein the tension element comprises a wave washer.

7. The fiber optic micro connector of claim 1, wherein the ferrule is an LC-type ferrule and the housing contains a single LC-type ferrule.

8. The fiber optic microconnector of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the housing includes a further wall spaced apart from the wall, the connection structure being located on the wall and the further wall.

9. The fiber optic micro connector of claim 8, wherein the connection structure comprises an opening in the wall.

10. The fiber optic micro connector of claim 1, wherein the housing is generally elliptical in cross-section.

11. An optical fiber connection assembly, comprising:

an adapter having a first end and a second end configured to receive different types of fiber optic connectors, the adapter having at least one mating component disposed on the first end; and

at least one fiber optic microconnector, the at least one fiber optic microconnector comprising: a core insert; and a housing receiving the ferrule therein, the ferrule having a flange, the housing having a connection structure for releasably connecting with the adapter when the at least one fiber optic microconnector is coupled to the adapter, the at least one fiber optic microconnector further comprising a tensioning element biasing the ferrule outwardly from the housing, the tensioning element disposed between the housing and the flange,

wherein the at least one mating component is configured such that the ferrule is insertable into the at least one mating component when the at least one fiber optic microconnector is coupled to the adapter, and

the at least one mating member is configured to extend outwardly from the first end and form an external protrusion on the adapter,

wherein the connection structure is configured to snap into locking engagement with the at least one mating component.

12. The fiber optic connection assembly of claim 11, wherein the at least one mating component comprises a post.

13. The fiber optic connection assembly of claim 12, wherein the housing includes a wall having an aperture to receive the post.

14. The fiber optic connection assembly of claim 13, wherein the housing has an angled front surface.

15. The fiber optic connection assembly of claim 11, wherein the ferrule is an LC-type ferrule and the housing contains a single LC-type ferrule.

16. A fiber optic adapter, comprising:

an adapter body having a first end configured to couple to a first connector type and a second end configured to couple to a second connector type; and

at least one mating component disposed on the first end, the at least one mating component configured to couple the fiber optic microconnector according to any one of claims 1-10 to the fiber optic adapter,

wherein the at least one mating component is configured such that a ferrule of the fiber optic micro connector is insertable into the at least one mating component when the fiber optic micro connector is coupled to the fiber optic adapter, and

the at least one mating component is configured to extend outwardly from the first end and form an external protrusion on the fiber optic adapter, wherein the at least one mating component includes a post to be received in a bore of the fiber optic micro connector.

17. The fiber optic adapter of claim 16, wherein the at least one mating component is configured to rotatably engage the fiber optic micro-connector.