USRE49942E1 - Latching connector with remote release - Google Patents

Abstract

In one aspect the present disclosure provides a latching connector. The latching connector comprises a housing that is configured to engage with a mating connector along a coupling axis. The housing includes a lever connected to the housing. The lever is configured to selectively disengage the latching connector from the mating connector. The housing further includes an extending member connected to the lever.

Description

CLAIM OF PRIORITY

This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/543,419 filed on Oct. 5, 2011 and entitled “Remote Release of Latching Connector,” which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure relates to interconnect technology. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to interconnect technology used in electrical and optical systems.

Recently, there has been unprecedented growth in communication networks. In such highly competitive markets, network providers continuously struggle to find better ways to improve the quality of service at a lower cost.

One way in which network providers have tried to improve the quality of service while reducing cost has been to deploy high density interconnect panels. Data, voice, and other communication networks are increasingly using interconnect to carry information. High-density panels are designed to consolidate the increasing volume of interconnections necessary to support the fast-growing networks into a compacted form factor, thereby increasing quality of service and decreasing costs such as floor space and support overhead. However, the deployment of high-density interconnect panels has not fully realized the stated goals.

In communication networks, such as data centers and switching networks, numerous interconnections between mating connectors are compacted into high-density panels. Panel and connector manufacturers optimize for such high densities by shrinking the connector size and/or the spacing between adjacent connectors on the panel. While both approaches are effective ways by which to increase the panel connector density, shrinking the connector size and/or spacing increases the support cost and diminishes the quality of service.

A cable is generally constructed using a transmission medium such as an optical fiber or an electrical conductor. An electrical conductor is generally a copper wire configured to carry electrical power. An optical fiber is generally a glass fiber configured to carry light. Individual cables may be grouped into a line capable of carrying large amounts of data simultaneously. When constructing a communication network, a cable assembly typically includes a jacket to protect the underlying cable, and terminating connectors at each end of the cable. These terminating connectors may be used to optically and/or electrically couple a first cable assembly to a mating connector of a second cable assembly.

A typical connector may include a latching mechanism adapted to lock the engagement of a latching connector with a mating connector, and a release mechanism adapted to disengage the first latching connector from the mating connector. In the engaged configuration, an operator may disengage the engaged connectors by applying a vertical force upon the release mechanism by squeezing the release mechanism between the operator's thumb and forefinger.

In a high-density panel configuration, adjacent connectors and cable assemblies obstruct access to the individual release mechanisms. This physical obstruction impedes the ability for the operator to minimize the stresses applied to the cables and connectors. For example, these stresses may be applied when the user reaches into a dense group of connectors and pushes aside surrounding optical fibers and connectors to access an individual connector release mechanism with the thumb and forefinger. Overstressing the cables and connectors may introduce latent defects, compromise the integrity and/or reliability of the terminations, and potentially cause serious disruptions to the network performance.

While an operator may attempt to use a tool, such as a screwdriver, to reach into the dense group of connectors, and activate the release mechanism, the adjacent cables and connectors can obstruct the operator's line of sight, making it difficult to guide the tool to the release mechanism without pushing aside the surrounding cables. Moreover, even when the operator has a clear line of sight, guiding the tool to the release mechanism is a time consuming process. Therefore using a tool is not effective at reducing support time and increasing the quality of service.

Quality of service and support time is further disadvantaged by exposure of the cable termination to the surrounding environment, and vulnerability of being scratched, chipped, cracked, or otherwise damaged by dust particles, grease, contaminants, and other foreign objects when the operator disengages the release mechanism. Such damage to the cable may potentially cause serious disruption to the network performance. While dust covers may be used to prevent such damage, small and loose hardware, such as dust covers, bears the tendency to become lost, misplaced, or otherwise not easily accessible to the operator when it is needed.

SUMMARY

This disclosure is not limited to the particular systems, devices and methods described, as these may vary. The terminology used in the description is for the purpose of describing the particular versions or embodiments only, and is not intended to limit the scope.

As used in this document, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meanings as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. Nothing in this document is to be construed as an admission that the embodiments described in this document 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 aspect the present disclosure provides a latching connector. The latching connector comprises a housing that is configured to engage with a mating connector along a coupling axis. The housing includes a lever connected to the housing. The lever is configured to selectively disengage the latching connector from the mating connector. The housing further includes an extending member connected to the lever.

In some designs the extending member can comprise a hook or a loop. In other designs the latching connector can comprise a multi-port connector. In various designs, the mating connector can be configured to engage with an LC connector.

In another aspect, the present disclosure provides an adaptive release member. The adaptive release member includes a release configured to receive a first force that is opposite to a latching connector coupling direction, and to disengage the latching connector from the mating connector by transmitting a component of the first force to the latching connector. The latching connector includes a housing configured to engage with a mating connector along the coupling direction. The housing itself includes a lever connected to the housing. The lever configured to selectively disengage the latching connector from the mating connector. The housing also includes an extending member connected to the lever and configured to cooperate with the release to actuate the lever. The latching connector also includes a guide connected to the release and configured to cooperate with the latching connector to restrict the release range of motion. In some designs, the latching connector can comprise a multi-port latching connector.

In a further aspect, the present disclosure provides an extender comprising an actuator configured to receive a first force that is opposite to a latching connector coupling direction, and to disengage the latching connector from the mating connector by transmitting a component of the first force to the latching connector. In this design, the latching connector comprises a housing configured to engage with a mating connector along the coupling direction. The housing includes a lever connected to the housing and configured to selectively disengage the latching connector from the mating connector. The housing further includes an extending member connected to the lever and configured to cooperate with the actuator to actuate the lever.

In some designs, the extender can include an actuator which comprises a hook or a loop. In other designs, the extender can further include a plurality of ridges and grooves disposed along a length of the extender. In one design, the extender can further include a dust cover attached to the extender and configured to protect a transmission medium. Optionally, the extender can include a jacket clamp attached to the extender. In another design, the extender can include a link that is connected to the actuator and configured to adjust a length of the extender. The extender can also include an identification tag connected to the extender.

In another aspect, the present disclosure provides an extender comprising an actuator configured to receive a first force that is opposite to a latching connector coupling direction, and to transmit a component of the first force to an adaptive release member. The adaptive release member includes a release configured to receive a component of the first force and to disengage the latching connector from the mating connector by transmitting a second force to the latching connector.

In this design, the latching connector comprises a housing configured to engage with a mating connector along the coupling direction. The housing includes a lever connected to the housing and configured to selectively disengage the latching connector from the mating connector. The housing also includes an extending member connected to the lever and configured to cooperate with the release to actuate the lever. The latching connector also includes a guide connected to the release and configured to cooperate with the latching connector to restrict the release range of motion.

In one design, the extender can optionally include a plurality of ridges and grooves disposed along a length of the extender. In another design, a link can be connected to the actuator and configured to adjust a length of the extender. Optionally, a dust cover can be attached to the extender and configured to protect a transmission medium. The extender can further include a jacket clamp attached to the extender. The extender can also include an identification tag connected to the extender.

In a further aspect, the present disclosure provides a cable assembly comprising a jacket. The cable assembly further comprises a latching connector, itself comprising a housing configured to engage with a mating connector along a coupling direction. The latching connector includes a lever connected to the housing and configured to selectively disengage the latching connector from the mating connector. The latching connector also includes an extending member connected to the lever. The cable assembly further comprises a transmission medium disposed within the jacket and the housing.

In one design, the cable assembly can include an extender, itself including an actuator configured to receive a first force that is opposite to a latching connector coupling direction, and to disengage the latching connector from a mating connector by transmitting a component of the first force to the extending member. In this design, a guide is positioned on the latching connector and configured to restrict the extender range of motion. The extender can further include a plurality of ridges and grooves disposed along a length of the extender. In one design, the extender can include a dust cover attached to the extender and configured to protect the transmission medium. In another design, the extender can include a jacket clamp attached to the extender. Optionally, a link can be connected to the actuator and configured to adjust a length of the extender. The extending member can comprise a hook, and the actuator can comprise a loop configured to cooperate with the hook. The cable assembly can further include an identification tag connected to the extender. In one design, the guide can comprise a boot including a strain relief that is configured to protect the transmission medium. Optionally, a restoring member can be connected to the boot, and can be configured to cooperate with a stop, itself connected to the extender, to restore the position of the lever to a natural position.

In another design, the cable assembly can further comprise an adaptive release member. The adaptive release member includes a release configured to receive a first force that is opposite to a latching connector coupling direction, and to disengage the latching connector from the mating connector by transmitting a component of the first force to the extending member. The adaptive release member also includes a guide connected to the release and configured to cooperate with the latching connector to restrict the release range of motion.

In this design, the cable assembly can further include an extender. The extender includes an actuator configured to receive a second force that is opposite to a latching connector coupling direction, and to disengage the latching connector from the mating connector by transmitting a component of the second force to the release. The extender can further include a plurality of ridges and grooves disposed along a length of the extender. In one design, the extender can include a dust cover attached to the extender and configured to protect the transmission medium. In another design, the extender can include a jacket clamp attached to the extender. Optionally, a link can be connected to the actuator and configured to adjust a length of the extender. The extending member in this design can optionally comprise a loop, and the release can comprise a hook that is configured to cooperate with the loop. The cable assembly can further include an identification tag connected to the extender.

In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a high-density panel, itself including a panel including a mounting surface. The high density panel further includes a first mating connector disposed on the mounting surface and having a first edge and a second mating connector disposed on the mounting surface and having a second edge. The distance between the first edge and the second edge is less than 1.25 millimeters. In one design, the distance between the first edge and the second edge is greater than or equal to 0 millimeters. Optionally, the first edge can abut the second edge. The panel can optionally comprise a printed circuit board. In one design, the first and second mating connectors are each configured to engage with a LC connector.

In a further aspect, the present disclosure provides a method of extracting a latching cable assembly from a panel. This method comprises applying a force to an extender along a coupling axis of a latching connector in a direction opposite to a coupling direction of the latching connector and increasing the force applied to the extender until the latching connector disengages from a mating connector.

These and other features of the invention are described in detail below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG.1 is a high density panel including a plurality of couplers.

FIG.2A is a coupler including mating connectors.

FIG.2B is a side view depicting the sidewall of the mating connectors longitudinal section taken through a connector ofFIG.2A.

FIG.3A is an isometric view of a cable assembly for interconnection on a high density mating connector panel.

FIG.3B is a perspective view of a cable assembly for interconnection on a high density mating connector panel.

FIG.4 is an exploded view of the cable assembly ofFIG.3A.

FIG.5 is a perspective view depicting the engagement of an array of cable assemblies.

FIG.6A is an isometric view of a multi-port cable assembly for interconnection on a high density mating connector panel.

FIG.6B is an exploded view of the cable assembly ofFIG.6A.

FIG.7 is a perspective view of the multi-port cable assembly ofFIG.6A.

FIG.8 is a perspective view depicting the engagement of an array of cable assemblies.

FIG.9A is an isometric view of a cable assembly for interconnection on a high density mating connector panel.

FIG.9B is an exploded view of the cable assembly ofFIG.9A.

FIG.10 is a perspective view depicting the engagement of an array of cable assemblies.

FIG.11A is an isometric view of a multi-port cable assembly for interconnection on a high density mating connector panel.

FIG.11B is an exploded view of the multi-port cable assembly ofFIG.11A.

FIG.12 is a perspective view depicting the engagement of an array of multi-port cable assemblies.

FIG.13 is an isometric view of a cable assembly for interconnection on a high density mating connector panel.

FIG.14 is an exploded view of the cable assembly ofFIG.13.

FIG.15 is a perspective view depicting the engagement of an array of cable assemblies.

FIG.16 is a perspective view depicting the stackability of the couplers of FIG.3A 15.

FIG.17 is an isometric view of a multi-port cable assembly for interconnection on a high density mating connector panel.

FIG.18 is an exploded view of the cable assembly ofFIG.17.

FIG.19 is a perspective view depicting the engagement of an array of cable assemblies.

FIG.20 is a perspective view depicting the stackability of the couplers of FIG.3A 18.

FIG.21 is an isometric view of a cable assembly for interconnection on a high density mating connector panel.

FIG.22 is an exploded view of the cable assembly ofFIG.21.

FIG.23 is a cross sectional view of an outer housing and boot of the cable assembly ofFIG.21.

FIG.24 is a perspective view depicting the stackability of the couplers of FIG.3A 23.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring toFIG.1, ahigh density panel100 includes a mountingsurface110. Thepanel100 can include a printed circuit board. A plurality ofcouplers120, are disposed on the mountingsurface110, and are arranged generally in close proximity to one another in a plurality of rows and columns. Eachcoupler120 has afirst edge122 and asecond edge124. The density of thepanel100 can be increased by decreasing thedistance126 between thefirst edge122 of afirst coupler120 and thesecond edge124 of asecond coupler120. Thecouplers120 are configured to accept connectors that will be shown and described below. Thecouplers120 can also be configured to engage with a LC connector.

Referring also toFIGS.2A and2B, thecoupler120 can generally includemating connectors150. Eachmating connector150 includessymmetrical sidewalls160. Eachsidewall160 is attached to and includes atop rail170, abottom rail180, and atrap190. Thetop rail170 and thebottom rail180 protrude from the inner surface of thesidewall160.

Eachmating connector150 orcoupler120 may comprise any type and form of shape, design and/or dimensions. In some designs, themating connector150 or thecoupler120 may comprise conical, circular, tube-like, square-like, spherical or rectangular components or shapes. Themating connectors150 or thecouplers120 may include any number of components of each of these shapes which may be integrated and interfaced into the connector. In some designs, themating connectors150 or thecouplers120 may interface or latch with a latching connector along a length dimension which may be parallel with the actual optical fiber or electrical conductor running through themating connector150 or thecouplers120. Themating connectors150 or thecouplers120 may also include a width and a height orthogonal to the length, where the width and length are orthogonal to each other.

Regardless of the shape of themating connectors150 or thecouplers120, which may vary based on the design, the width and the height of acoupler120 may be any length between 0.01 millimeter and 10 centimeters, such as a length between 1 mm and 5 mm. In some designs, the width of amating connector150coupler120 may be any size, such as 0.01 millimeters, 0.05 millimeters, 0.1 millimeters, 0.5 millimeters, 1 millimeter, 1.5 millimeters, 2 millimeters, 2.5 millimeters, 3 millimeters, 3.5 millimeters, 4.0 millimeters, 4.5 millimeters, 5.0 millimeters, 5.5 millimeters, 6.0 millimeters, 6.5 millimeters, 7.0 millimeters, 7.5 millimeters, 8.0 millimeters, 8.5 millimeters, 9.0 millimeters, 9.5 millimeters, 10 millimeters, 12 millimeters, 15 millimeters, 18 millimeters, 25 millimeters, 50 millimeters or 100 millimeters. In further designs, the height of amating connector150 may be any size, such as 0.01 millimeters, 0.05 millimeters, 0.1 millimeters, 0.5 millimeters, 1 millimeter. 1.5 millimeters. 2 millimeters, 2.5 millimeters, 3 millimeters, 3.5 millimeters, 4.0 millimeters, 4.5 millimeters, 5.0 millimeters, 5.5 millimeters, 6.0 millimeters, 6.5 millimeters, 7.0 millimeters, 7.5 millimeters, 8.0 millimeters, 8.5 millimeters, 9.0 millimeters, 9.5 millimeters, 10 millimeters, 12 millimeters, 15 millimeters, 18 millimeters, 25 millimeters, 50 millimeters or 100 millimeters.

In some designs, a high-density panel ofmating connectors150 orcouplers120 may include a plurality ofmating connectors150 orcouplers120 arranged into an array or rows of and columns. The rows and columns may be parallel and perpendicular to each other, or may be shifted to be non-parallel or arranged in any other orderly or disorderly manner.

In one design, apanel100 comprises a set of 30mating connectors150 orcouplers120, arranged in 6 columns and 5 rows. The distance between each of themating connectors150 or thecouplers120 in thepanel100 along the width of thepanel100 may be an distance between 0 and 30 millimeters, such as 0.001 millimeters, 0.005 millimeters, 0.01 millimeters, 0.03 millimeters, 0.05 millimeters, 0.08 millimeters, 0.1 millimeters, 0.25 millimeters, 0.5 millimeters, 0.75 millimeters, 0.90 millimeters, 1 millimeter, 1.1 millimeters, 1.2 millimeters, 1.3 millimeters, 1.4 millimeters, 1.5 millimeters, 1.6 millimeters, 1.8 millimeters, 2 millimeters, 2.5 millimeters, 5 millimeters, 10 millimeters or any other distance. In some designs, the distance between each of themating connectors150 or thecouplers120 in thepanel100 along the height of thepanel100 may be any distance between 0 and 30 millimeters, such as 0.001 millimeters, 0.005 millimeters, 0.01 millimeters, 0.03 millimeters, 0.05 millimeters, 0.08 millimeters, 0.1 millimeters, 0.25 millimeters, 0.5 millimeters, 0.75 millimeters, 0.90 millimeters, 1 millimeter, 1.1 millimeters, 1.2 millimeters, 1.3 millimeters, 1.4 millimeters, 1.5 millimeters, 1.6 millimeters, 1.8 millimeters, 2 millimeters, 2.5 millimeters, 5 millimeters, 10 millimeters or any other distance.

In another design, apanel100 comprises a set of 30mating connectors150 orcouplers120, arranged in non-parallel and/or non-perpendicular manner. The distance between each of themating connectors150 or thecouplers120 in the panel along the width of thepanel100 may be any distance between 0 and 30 millimeters, such as 0.001 millimeters, 0.005 millimeters, 0.01 millimeters, 0.03 millimeters, 0.05 millimeters, 0.08 millimeters, 0.1 millimeters, 0.25 millimeters, 0.5 millimeters, 0.75 millimeters, 0.90 millimeters, 1 millimeter, 1.1 millimeter, 1.2 millimeters, 1.3 millimeters, 1.4 millimeters, 1.5 millimeters, 1.6 millimeters, 1.8 millimeters, 2 millimeters, 2.5 millimeters, 5 millimeters, 10 millimeters or any other distance. In some designs, the distance between each of themating connectors150 or thecouplers120 in the panel along the height of the panel may be any distance between 0 and 30 millimeters, such as 0.001 millimeters, 0.005 millimeters, 0.01 millimeters, 0.03 millimeters, 0.05 millimeters, 0.08 millimeters, 0.1 millimeters, 0.25 millimeters, 0.5 millimeters, 0.75 millimeters, 0.90 millimeters, 1 millimeter, 1.1 millimeters, 1.2 millimeters, 1.3 millimeters, 1.4 millimeters, 1.5 millimeters, 1.6 millimeters, 1.8 millimeters, 2 millimeters, 2.5 millimeters, 5 millimeters, 10 millimeters or any other distance.

It should thus be clear that the dimensions of themating connectors150 or thecouplers120, as well as the distances in apanel100, on each side of themating connector150 orcoupler150, may vary dependent on the design.

Referring toFIGS.3A and3B, a push-pull cable assembly200 is configured to connect to themating connector150. The push-pull cable assembly200 generally includes acable assembly connector210, anadaptive release member240, and anextender260.

Referring also toFIG.4, thecable assembly connector210 includes a latching connector216, atransmission medium212, and ajacket218. The latching connector216 includes anouter housing220, aninner housing214, alever222, front stops228, and rear stops230. Thetransmission medium212 is concentrically disposed within theinner housing214 and thejacket218. Thetransmission medium212 can comprise an optical fiber or an electrical conductor. A first end of thelever222 is attached to theouter housing220. A second end of thelever222 is not attached to theouter housing220. The lever includes latches224 and an extending member226 for extending thelever222. The latches224 are symmetrically attached to and protrude from both sides of thelever222. The extending member226 is attached to the second end of thelever222, and comprises a loop. Front stops228 and rear stops230 are attached to and protrude from theouter housing220, and are symmetrically disposed along both sides of theouter housing220.

Theadaptive release member240 includes and is attached toguides242, a release252, atab248, and snapbearings250. Eachguide242 is symmetrically disposed on theadaptive release member240, protruding downwardly from theadaptive release member240 bottom surface for a length that is approximately equal to the height of theouter housing220, and curves inwardly towards the center of theadaptive release member240. The release252 includes alever space244. Thelever space244 is generally sufficiently wide enough to accommodate the width of the extending member226. The release252 also includes and is attached tosymmetrical release members246. Each of therelease members246 protrude inwardly into thelever space244, collectively forming a channel that is narrower than the width of the extending member226. Thetab248 protrudes from the top surface of theadaptive release member240. Thesnap bearings250 are symmetrically disposed on both sides of theadaptive release member240.

Theextender260 includes and is attached to an actuator261, ridges266, ajacket clamp274, and a dust cover272. The actuator261 includes snaps264 and a slot262. The slot is sized to cooperate with thetab248. The snaps264 protrude symmetrically on each side of theextender260 and are sized to cooperate with thesnap bearings250. Each ridge266 protrudes downwardly from the bottom side of theextender260. A groove268 is disposed between each pair of successive ridges266. The dust cover bearing270 is appropriately sized to cooperate with the dust cover272. The dust cover272 has an outer diameter that is appropriately sized to fit inside the housinginner surface214, and includes a cavity276 which is appropriately sized to accommodate the diameter of thetransmission medium212. The dust cover272 base is attached to a pair oflips278. Thelips278 protrude outwardly along the circumference of the dust cover272. Thelips278 are spaced to cooperate with the dust cover bearing270 thickness. Thejacket clamp274 is sized to accommodate the diameter of thejacket218.

The inner andouter housings214 and220 are configured to engage with amating connector150 along acoupling direction206. Thetransmission medium212 acts as a conduit to carry a signal over a distance spanning the length of thetransmission medium212. Thejacket218 protects thetransmission medium212 from damage during operation. Thelever222 is configured to receive a force in a direction normal to the top of theouter housing220 and to transmit a proportionate force acting in the same direction to the latches224, thereby selectively disengaging the latching connector216 from themating connector150.

Theadaptive release member240 is configured to receive a force opposite to thecoupling direction206, and to disengage the latching connector216 from themating connector150 by transmitting a component of the received force to the latching connector216. Therelease members246 are configured to cooperate with the extending members226 to compress thelever222. Thelever space244 is configured to provide a resting space for thelever222. Theguides242 cooperate with theouter housing220, front stops228 and rear stops230 in order to restrict the release252 range of motion to thecoupling axis205 of the latching connector216 and to further restrict theadaptive release member240 range of motion to the space between front stops228 and the rear stops230. Thetab248 and thesnap bearings250 mechanically couple with corresponding structures of the slot262 and the snaps264. Thesnap bearings250 cooperate with the snaps264 to provide freedom for theextender260 to move in the direction normal to thecoupling axis205.

While the extending member226 comprises a loop in this particular design, it should be understood that the extending member226 can comprise any other shape which cooperates the release252 to compress of thelever222.

Theextender260 includes an actuator261 that is configured to receive a force that is opposite to thecoupling direction206, and to transmit a component of the received force to theadaptive release member240. The ridges266 and the grooves268 provide enhanced flexibility along the length of theextender260. Thejacket clamp274 is configured to clamp thejacket218 and to prevent theextender260 from dangling. The dust cover bearing270 receives and holds the dust cover272 in place. The dust cover272 plugs the cavity between thetransmission medium212 and the housinginner surface214, thus protecting thetransmission medium212 when it is not in use.

Referring again toFIGS.2A and2B, themating connector150 receives the latching connector216 of thecable assembly200. An operator may engage the latching connector216 with themating connector150 by guiding the leading edge of the latching connector216 into themating connector150 and applying a force in thecoupling direction206. The operator applied force in turn causes the top inner surface of themating connector150 to compress thelever222, and thereby align the leading edge of each latch224 between the respectivetop rail170 andbottom rail180. When the trailing edge of each latch224 then crosses the interface between the respectivetop rail170 andbottom rail180, each latch224 becomes sandwiched in between the respectivetop rail170 andbottom rail180 thereby maintaining thelever222 in the compressed position. When the trailing edge of each latch224 crosses into therespective trap190, thelever222 becomes decompressed, thereby trapping thelever222 in thetraps190. In this trapped position, the latching connector216 is said to be engaged with themating connector150.

Thecable assembly200 is disengaged from themating connector150 by applying a force that is opposite to thecoupling direction206, to theextender260 until the latching connector216 disengages from themating connector150. Theextender260 transmits a component of this force to theadaptive release member240. Theadaptive release member240 in turn transmits a component of this force to theguides242 and to therelease members246. Accordingly, therelease members246 cooperate with the extending members226 to compress thelever222 until each of the latches224 are aligned between the respectivetop rail170 andbottom rail180. The leading edge of each latch224 then crosses the interface between the respectivetop rail170 andbottom rail180, freeing thelever222 from thetraps190. In this position, thetop rail170 and thebottom rail180 compresses thelever222, and the latching connector216 is said to be disengaged from themating connector150. The force guides the latching connector216 outside of themating connector150. In this disengaged position, thetransmission medium212 can be protected by folding theextender260 over and plugging the dust cover272 in the cavity between thetransmission medium212 and the housinginner surface214.

Referring toFIG.5, thecouplers120 are engaged with an array ofcable assemblies200. The push-pull cable assembly100 permits the spacing ofcouplers120 to be in close proximity to each other.

Referring toFIGS.6A and6B, a multi-port push-pull cable assembly300 can generally include amulti-port cable assembly310, anadaptive release member340, and anextender360.

Themulti-port cable assembly310 includes a plurality ofcable assemblies310a and310b.Cable assemblies310a and310b each can generally include a latchingconnector316, a transmission medium312, and ajacket318. The latchingconnector316 includes anouter housing320, aninner housing314, a lever322, front stops328, and rear stops330. The transmission medium312 is concentrically disposed within theinner housing314 and thejacket318. The transmission medium312 can comprise an optical fiber or an electrical conductor. A first end of the lever322 is attached to theouter housing320. A second end of the lever322 is not attached to theouter housing320. The lever includes latches324 and an extendingmember326 for extending the lever322. The latches324 are symmetrically attached to and protrude from both sides of the lever322. The extendingmember326 is attached to the second end of the lever322, and comprises a loop. Front stops328 andrear stops330 are attached to and protrude from theouter housing320, and are symmetrically disposed along both sides of theouter housing320.

Theadaptive release member340 can generally include and is attached to guides342a and342b, a plurality of releases352, a tab348, and snapbearings350. Each guide342a is symmetrically disposed on theadaptive release member340, protruding downwardly from theadaptive release member340 bottom surface for a length that is approximately equal to the height of theouter housing320, and curves inwardly towards the center ofadaptive release member340. The guide342b is disposed between guides342a, protruding downwardly from theadaptive release member340 bottom surface for a length that is approximately equal to the height of theouter housing320, and forking outwardly towards the sides ofadaptive release member340. Each release352 includes a lever space344 that is generally sufficiently wide enough to accommodate the width of the extendingmember326. Each release352 also includes and is attached tosymmetrical release members346. Each of therelease members346 protrude inwardly into the respective lever space344, collectively forming a channel that is narrower than the width of the extendingmember326. The tab348 protrudes from the top surface of theadaptive release member340. Thesnap bearings350 are symmetrically disposed on both sides of theadaptive release member340.

Theextender360 includes and is attached to anactuator361,ridges366, jacket clamps374, and dust covers372. Theactuator361 includes aslot362 and snaps364. Theslot362 is sized to cooperate with the tab348. Thesnaps364 protrude symmetrically on each side of theextender360 and are sized to cooperate with thesnap bearings350. Eachridge366 protrudes downwardly from the bottom side of theextender360. Agroove368 is disposed in between each pair ofsuccessive ridges366. Each dust cover bearing370 is appropriately sized to cooperate with therespective dust cover372. Eachdust cover372 has an outer diameter that is appropriately sized to fit inside the housinginner surface314, and includes acavity376 which is appropriately sized to accommodate the diameter of the transmission medium312. Eachdust cover372 base is attached to a pair of lips378 (not shown). The lips378 protrude outwardly along the circumference of eachdust cover372. The lips378 are appropriately spaced to cooperate with the dust cover bearing370 thickness. Eachjacket clamp374 is appropriately sized to accommodate the diameter of thejacket318.

The inner andouter housings314 and320 are configured to engage with amating connector150 along acoupling direction206. Each transmission medium312 acts as a conduit to carry a signal over a distance spanning the length of the transmission medium312. Eachjacket318 protects the respective optical fiber312 from damage during operation. Each lever322 is configured to receive a force in a direction normal to the top of theouter housing320 and to transmit a proportionate force acting in the same direction to the respective latches324, thereby selectively disengaging the latchingconnector316 from themating connector150.

Theadaptive release member340 is configured to receive a force opposite to thecoupling direction206, and to disengage the latchingconnector316 from themating connector150 by transmitting a component of the received force to the latchingconnector316. Therelease members346 cooperate with the extendingmembers326 to compress the lever322. Each lever space344 provides a resting space for the lever322. The guides342a and342b cooperate with theouter housing320, front stops328 andrear stops330 in order to restrict the release352 range of motion to thecoupling axis205 of the latchingconnector316 and to further restrict theadaptive release member340 range of motion to the space between front stops328 and the rear stops330. The tab348 and thesnap bearings350 mechanically couple with corresponding structures of theslot362 and thesnaps364. Thesnap bearings350 cooperate with thesnaps364 to provide freedom for theextender360 to move in the direction normal to thecoupling axis205.

While the extendingmembers326 comprises loops in this particular design, it should be understood that the extendingmembers326 can comprise any other shape which cooperates the releases352 to compress the levers322.

Theextender360 includes anactuator361 that is configured to receive a force that is opposite to thecoupling direction206, and to transmit a component of the received force to theadaptive release member340. Theridges366 and the grooves368 (FIG. 7) provide enhanced flexibility along the length of theextender360. Eachjacket clamp374 is configured to clamp thejacket318 and to prevent theextender360 from dangling. Each dust cover bearing370 receives and holds therespective dust cover372 in place. Eachdust cover372 plugs the cavity between the transmission medium312 and the housinginner surface314, thus protecting the transmission medium312 when it is not in use.

Referring toFIG.8, ahigh density panel100 includes a plurality ofcouplers120, arranged in close proximity with each other in a plurality of rows and columns, and engaged with plurality of multi-port push-pull cable assemblies300.

Generally, the latching mechanisms of the multi-port push-pull cable assembly300 shares many similarities with the latching mechanism of the single port push-pull cable assembly200 ofFIG.4. More specifically, an operator may engage the multi-port push-pull cable assembly300 by aligning the multi-port push-pull cable assembly300 with themating connectors150 and applying a force in thecoupling direction206 until the multi-port push-pull cable assembly400 engages with themating connectors150.

Referring toFIGS.9A and9B, an extender may have an adjustable length. A push-pull cable assembly400 can generally include acable assembly210, anadaptive release member240, and anadjustable length extender460 according to an embodiment.

Theadjustable length extender460 includes and is attached to a plurality oflinks462, and anend link466. Eachlink462 is attached to and includes anactuator461 and snapbearings450. Theactuator461 includessnaps464. A plurality ofsnaps464 are disposed on a first edge of eachlink462, protruding symmetrically on each side of thelink462. A plurality ofsnap bearings450 are disposed on a first edge of eachlink462, and are symmetrically disposed on each side of thelink462. Thesnap bearings450 of eachlink462 are sized to cooperate with thesnaps464 of theadjacent link462 in the chain. Theend link466 includes and is attached to ajacket clamp474 and adust cover472. The end link466 also includes a dust cover bearing470 that is appropriately sized to cooperate with thedust cover472. Thedust cover472 has an outer diameter that is appropriately sized to fit inside the housing inner surface114, and includes acavity476 which is appropriately sized to accommodate the diameter of the transmission medium112. Thedust cover472 base is attached to a pair oflips478. Thelips478 protrude outwardly along the circumference ofdust cover472. Thelips478 are appropriately spaced to cooperate with the dust cover bearing470 thickness. Thejacket clamp474 is appropriately sized to accommodate the diameter of the jacket118.

Thelinks462 are configured to adjust the length of theextender460 by adding or removinglinks462 from the chain. Eachlink462 is configured to attach to anadjacent link462, theadaptive release member240, or theend link466. Theextender460 includes an actuator that is configured to receive a force that is opposite to thecoupling direction206, and transmit a component of the received force to theadaptive release member340. Thejacket clamp474 is configured to clamp thejacket218 and to prevent theextender460 from dangling. The dust cover bearing470 receives and holds thedust cover472 in place. Thedust cover472 is configured to plug the cavity between thetransmission medium212 and the housinginner surface214, thus protecting thetransmission medium212 when it is not in use.

Referring toFIG.10, ahigh density panel100 includes a plurality ofcouplers120, arranged in close proximity with each other in a plurality of rows and columns, and engaged with plurality of push-pull cable assemblies400. The latching mechanisms of the push-pull cable assembly400 shares many similarities with the latching mechanism of the push-pull cable assembly200 ofFIG.4. More specifically, an operator may engage the push-pull cable assembly400 by aligning the push-pull cable assembly400 with themating connectors150 and applying a force in thecoupling direction206 until the push-pull cable assembly400 engages with themating connectors150.

The push-pull cable assembly400 can be disengaged from themating connector150 by applying a force that is opposite to thecoupling direction206 to theextender460 until the multi-port push-pull cable assembly400 disengages from eachmating connector150.

Referring toFIGS.11A and11B, theextender560 of a multi-port push-pull cable assembly500 has an adjustable length. The multi-port push-pull cable assembly can generally include amulti-port cable assembly310, anadaptive release member340, and anadjustable extender560.

Theadjustable length extender560 includes and is attached to a plurality oflinks562, and anend link566. Eachlink562 is attached to and includes an actuator561 and snapbearings550. The actuator561 includessnaps564. A plurality ofsnaps564 are disposed on a first edge of eachlink562, protruding symmetrically on each side of thelink562. A plurality ofsnap bearings550 are disposed on a first edge of eachlink562, and are symmetrically disposed on each side of thelink562. Thesnap bearings550 of eachlink562 are sized to cooperate with thesnaps564 of theadjacent link562 in the chain. Theend link566 includes and is attached to a plurality of jacket clamps574 and a plurality of dust covers572. The end link566 also includes a plurality ofdust cover bearings570 that are appropriately sized to cooperate with thedust cover472. Eachdust cover572 has an outer diameter that is appropriately sized to fit inside the housinginner surface314, and includes acavity576 which is appropriately sized to accommodate the diameter of the transmission medium312. Eachdust cover572 base is attached to a pair oflips578. Thelips578 protrude outwardly along the circumference of eachdust cover572. Thelips578 are appropriately spaced to cooperate with each dust cover bearing570 thickness. Thejacket clamp574 is appropriately sized to accommodate the diameter of thejacket318.

Thelinks562 are configured to adjust the length of theextender560 by adding or removinglinks562 from the chain. Eachlink562 attaches to anadjacent link562, theadaptive release member340, or theend link566. Theextender560 is configured to receive a force that is opposite to thecoupling direction206, and to transmit the received force to theadaptive release member340. Thejacket clamp574 is configured to clamp thejacket318 and to prevent theextender560 from dangling. The dust cover bearing570 is configured to receive and hold thedust cover572 in place. Thedust cover572 is configured to plug the cavity in between the transmission medium312 and the housinginner surface314, thus protecting the transmission medium312 when it is not in use.

Referring toFIG.12, ahigh density panel100 includes a plurality ofcouplers120, arranged in close proximity with each other in a plurality of rows and columns, and engaged with plurality of multi-port push-pull cable assemblies500. The latching mechanisms of the multi-port push-pull cable assembly500 shares many similarities with the latching mechanism of the single port push-pull cable assembly200 ofFIG.4. More specifically, an operator may engage the multi-port push-pull cable assembly500 by aligning the multi-port push-pull cable assembly500 with themating connectors150 and applying a force in thecoupling direction206 until the multi-port push-pull cable assembly500 engages with themating connectors150.

The multi-port push-pull cable assembly500 can be disengaged from themating connectors150 by applying a force that is opposite to thecoupling direction206 to theextender560 until the multi-port push-pull cable assembly500 disengages from eachmating connector150.

Referring toFIG.13, a low-profile push-pull cable assembly600 can generally include acable assembly610, aguide640, and anextender660.

Referring toFIG.14, thecable assembly610 generally includes a latchingconnector616, atransmission medium612, and ajacket618. The latchingconnector616 can generally include anouter housing620, an inner housing614, alever622. front stops628, and rear stops630. Thetransmission medium612 is concentrically disposed within the inner housing614 and thejacket618. Thetransmission medium612 can comprise an optical fiber or an electrical conductor. A first end of thelever622 is attached to theouter housing620. A second end of thelever622 is not attached to theouter housing620. Thelever622 includeslatches624 and an extendingmember626 for extending thelever622. Thelatches624 are symmetrically attached to and protrude from both sides of thelever622. The extendingmember626 is attached to the end of thelever622, and comprises a hook. Front stops628 andrear stops630 are attached to and protrude from theouter housing620, and are symmetrically disposed along both sides of theouter housing620.

Theguide640 can generally include and is attached to sidewalls642, and anaperture644. Eachsidewall642 is symmetrically disposed on theguide640, protruding downwardly from theguide640 bottom surface for a length that is approximately equal to the height ofouter housing620, and curves inwardly towards the center ofguide640. Theaperture644 protrudes upwardly from the top surface of theguide640.

Theextender660 includes and is attached to anactuator664, ajacket clamp674, and adust cover672. Thedust cover672 has an outer diameter that is appropriately sized to fit inside the housing inner surface614, and includes acavity676 which is appropriately sized to accommodate the diameter of thetransmission medium612. Thejacket clamp674 is appropriately sized to accommodate the diameter of thejacket618. As shown inFIG.14, theactuator664 has a curvature. Theactuator664 may also be flat, or have a curvature that is different than what is shown inFIG.14.

The inner andouter housings614 and620 are configured to engage with amating connector150 along acoupling direction206. Thetransmission medium612 acts as a conduit to carry a signal over a distance spanning the length of thetransmission medium612. Thejacket618 protects thetransmission medium612 from damage during operation. Thelever622 is configured to receive a force in a direction normal to the top of theouter housing620 and to transmit a proportionate force acting in the same direction to thelatches624, thereby selectively disengaging the latchingconnector616 from themating connector150.

Theguide640sidewalls642 are configured to cooperate with theouter housing620, front stops628 andrear stops630 in order to restrict the extender range of motion to thecoupling axis205 of the latchingconnector616 and to further restrict theguide640 range of motion to the space between front stops628 and the rear stops630. Theaperture644 is configured to cooperate with thesidewalls642 and the latchingconnector616 to restrict theextender660 range of motion to thecoupling axis205.

Theextender660 includes anactuator664 that is configured to receive a force that is opposite to thecoupling direction206, and to transmit a component of the received force to the extendingmember626, thereby causing a compression of thelever622. Thejacket clamp674 is configured to clamp thejacket618 and to prevent theextender660 from dangling. Thedust cover672 is configured to plug the cavity in between thetransmission medium612 and the housing inner surface614, thus protecting thetransmission medium612 when it is not in use.

Referring toFIGS.15 and16, ahigh density panel100 includes a mountingsurface110. A plurality ofcouplers120, are disposed on the mountingsurface110, and arranged generally in close proximity to one another in a plurality of rows and columns. The plurality ofcouplers120 are engaged with plurality of push-pull cable assemblies600. Eachcoupler120 has afirst edge122 and asecond edge124. It is illustrated that thedistance126 between afirst edge122 of afirst coupler120 and thesecond edge124 of asecond coupler120, generally with no or with a substantially small spacing that is less than 1.25 millimeters between the adjacent couplers. Thecouplers120 can also be configured to engage with a LC connector.

Referring toFIG.17, a multi-port push-pull cable assembly700 can generally include amulti-port cable assembly710, aguide740, and anextender760.

Referring toFIG.18, themulti-port cable assembly710 includes a plurality ofcable assemblies710a and710b.Cable assemblies710a and710b each can generally include a latchingconnector716, atransmission medium712, and ajacket718. The latchingconnector716 can generally include anouter housing720, aninner housing714, alever722, front stops728, and rear stops730. Thetransmission medium712 is concentrically disposed within theinner housing714 and thejacket718. Thetransmission medium712 can comprise an optical fiber or an electrical conductor. A first end of thelever722 is attached to theouter housing720. A second end of thelever722 is not attached to theouter housing720. Thelever722 includeslatches724 and an extendingmember726 for extending thelever722. Thelatches724 are symmetrically attached to and protrude from both sides of thelever722. The extendingmember726 is attached to the end of thelever722, and comprises a hook. Front stops728 andrear stops730 are attached to and protrude from theouter housing720, and are symmetrically disposed along both sides of theouter housing720.

Theguide740 can generally include and is attached to sidewalls742a and742b, and anaperture744. Eachsidewall742a is symmetrically disposed on theguide740, protruding downwardly from theguide740 bottom surface for a length that is approximately equal to the height ofouter housing720, and curves inwardly towards the center ofguide740. Thesidewall742b is disposed between sidewalls742a, protruding downwardly from theguide740 bottom surface for a length that is approximately equal to the height ofouter housing720, and forking outwardly towards the sides of theguide740. Theaperture744 protrudes upwardly from the top surface of theguide740.

Theextender760 includes and is attached to a plurality ofactuators764, a plurality of jacket clamps774, and a plurality of dust covers772. Eachdust cover772 has an outer diameter that is appropriately sized to fit inside the housinginner surface714, and includes acavity776 which is appropriately sized to accommodate the diameter of Thetransmission medium712. Eachjacket clamp774 is appropriately sized to accommodate the diameter of thejacket718. As shown inFIG.18, theactuators764 are flat, however theactuators764 may also have a curvature.

The inner andouter housings714 and720 are configured to engage with amating connector150 along acoupling direction206. Eachtransmission medium712 acts as a conduit to carry a signal over a distance spanning the length of thetransmission medium712. Eachjacket718 protects the respectiveoptical fiber712 from damage during operation. Eachlever722 is configured to receive a force in a direction normal to the top of theouter housing720 and to transmit a proportionate force acting in the same direction to therespective latches724, thereby selectively disengaging the latchingconnector716 from themating connector150.

Theguide740sidewalls742a and742b are configured to cooperate with theouter housing720, front stops728 andrear stops730 in order to restrict theextender760 range of motion to thecoupling axis205 of the latchingconnector716 and to further restrict theguide740 range of motion to the space between front stops728 and the rear stops730. Theaperture744 is configured to cooperate with the sidewalls742 and the latchingconnector716 to restrict theextender760 range of motion to thecoupling axis205.

Theextender760 includesactuators764 that are configured to receive a force that is opposite to thecoupling direction206, and to transmit a component of the received force to each extendingmember726. Eachjacket clamp774 is configured to clamp thejacket718 and to prevent theextender760 from dangling. Eachdust cover772 is configured to plug the cavity in between The thetransmission medium712 and the housinginner surface714, thus protecting The thetransmission medium712 when it is not in use.

Referring toFIGS.19-20, ahigh density panel100 includes a mountingsurface110. A plurality ofcouplers120, are disposed on the mountingsurface110, and arranged generally in close proximity to one another in a plurality of rows and columns. The plurality ofcouplers120 are engaged with plurality of push-pull cable assemblies700. Eachcoupler120 has afirst edge122 and asecond edge124. It is illustrated that thedistance126 between afirst edge122 of afirst coupler120 and thesecond edge124 of asecond coupler120, generally with no or with a substantially small spacing that is less than 1.25 millimeters between the adjacent couplers. Thecouplers120 can also be configured to engage with a LC connector.

Referring toFIG.21, a low-profile push-pull cable assembly800 can generally include acable assembly810, aboot840, and anextender860.

Referring toFIG.22, thecable assembly810 generally includes a latchingconnector816, atransmission medium812, ajacket818, and atrap828. The latchingconnector816 can generally include anouter housing820, aninner housing814, alever822. Thetransmission medium812 is concentrically disposed within theinner housing814 and thejacket818. Thetransmission medium812 can comprise an optical fiber or an electrical conductor. A first end of thelever822 is attached to theouter housing820. A second end of thelever822 is not attached to theouter housing820. Thelever822 includeslatches824 and an extendingmember826 for extending thelever822. Thelatches824 are symmetrically attached to and protrude from both sides of thelever822. The extendingmember826 is attached to the end of thelever822, and comprises a hook. Thetrap828 is disposed in between the latchingconnector816 and thejacket818.

Theboot840 can generally include and is attached to astrain relief842, apassageway844, astop space847, a restoringmember849, a protrudingmember851, and aflexible membrane853. Thestrain relief842 is sized to cover a distance of thetransmission medium812 entering into the latchingconnector816. Thepassageway844 runs parallel to thecoupling axis205 along the top of theboot840. Thestop space847 is disposed along thepassageway844, and is connected to a restoringmember849. The restoringmember849 protrudes outwardly from thestop space847 in adirection 204 opposite to thecoupling direction206. The flexible membrane is sized to fit around thejacket818. The protrudingmember851 is disposed on the inner surface of thestrain relief842.

Theextender860 includes and is attached to anactuator864, astop865, and anidentification tag867. The actuator is sized to cooperate with the extendingmember826, and comprises a loop. Thestop865 protrudes from theextender860 top surface and is sized to cooperate with thestop space847 and the restoringmember849. As shown in the figure, the stop856 comprises a dorsal fin. Theextender860 width and height is sized to cooperate with the width and height of thepassageway844 width and height. Theidentification tag867 is sized to accommodate the dimensions of user defined identifications.

The inner andouter housings814 and820 are configured to engage with amating connector150 along acoupling direction206. Thetransmission medium812 acts as a conduit to carry a signal over a distance spanning the length of thetransmission medium812. Thejacket818 protects thetransmission medium812 from damage during operation. Thelever822 is configured to receive a force in a direction normal to the top of theouter housing820 and to transmit a proportionate force acting in the same direction to thelatches824, thereby selectively disengaging the latchingconnector816 from themating connector150. Referring toFIG.23, thetrap828 is configured to cooperate with the protrudingmember851. Thetrap828 is configured to cooperate with the protrudingmember851 to restrict the movement of theboot840 along thecoupling axis205.

Thestrain relief842 is configured to protect thetransmission medium812 from flexure near the area of termination. The protrudingmember851 is configured to cooperate with thetrap828 to restrict the movement of theboot840 along the coupling axis. Thepassageway844 is configured to accept theextender860. Thestop space847 is configured to provide a resting place for thestop865 when thelever822 is in the natural position. The restoringmember849 is configured to overcome the friction between theextender860 surfaces and the inner walls of thepassageway844 in order to restore thelever822 to the natural position. Theflexible membrane853 is configured to provide a flexible transition in between thecable818 and thestrain relief842.

Theextender860 includes anactuator864 that is configured to receive a force that is opposite to thecoupling direction206, and to transmit a component of the received force to the extendingmember826, thereby causing a compression of thelever822. Thestop865 is configured to cooperate with the restoringmember849 to overcome the friction between theextender860 surfaces and the inner walls of thepassageway844 in order to restore thelever822 to the natural position following the application of a user-applied force to theextender860 opposite to thecoupling direction206. Theidentification tag867 is configured to provide a customizable area for display of a user-defined identification of the cable assembly.

Referring toFIG.24 ahigh density panel100 includes a mountingsurface110. A plurality ofcouplers120, are disposed on the mountingsurface110, and arranged generally in close proximity to one another in a plurality of rows and columns. The plurality ofcouplers120 are engaged with plurality of push-pull cable assemblies800. Eachcoupler120 has afirst edge122 and asecond edge124. It is illustrated that thedistance126 between afirst edge122 of afirst coupler120 and thesecond edge124 of asecond coupler120, generally with no or with a substantially small spacing that is less than 1.25 millimeters between the adjacent couplers. Thecouplers120 can also be configured to engage with a LC connector.

The cable assemblies as taught herein reduces the support cost and enhances the quality of service of using high-density panels in communication systems. Additionally, depending on the design of the snap features and associated snap receiving recesses, the adaptive release member and/or extender may be disassembled to replace a worn part (e.g., if a link breaks or wears out) or otherwise repair the adaptive release member and/or extender. Additionally, the low-profile of the cable assemblies taught herein permits system integrators to eliminate the spacing between mating connectors on a high-density panel.

The various components described above may be constructed by manufacturing methods well known in the art. Materials for use in construction of the various components listed above may include various polymers, plastics, metals, glass, and other similar suitable materials. For example, the adaptive release members, latching connectors, and extenders may be manufactured via a plastic injection molding process. Alternatively, the various adaptive release members, latching connectors, and extenders may be manufactured from a suitable metal via a milling process. Additional materials and manufacturing methods will be well known to those skilled in the art.

The above examples are not intended to limit the invention, but merely to serve as an illustration of how the invention might be constructed and operated.

Various of the above-disclosed and other features and functions, or alternatives thereof, may be 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 (72)

What is claimed is:

1. A cable assembly comprising:

a latching connector comprising a housing configured to engage with a mating connector in a coupling direction along a coupling axis and an extender, the housing including:

a lever configured to engage with the mating connector to engage and selectively disengage the latching connector with the mating connector, the housing having a length along the coupling axis; and

anthe extender removably connected with the housing and comprising a portion for contactingin direct contact with the lever to disengage the lever from the mating connector to disengage the latching connector from the mating connector, the extender having a length along the coupling axis greater than a length of the housing;

wherein the lever has a first end and a second end and the first end is spaced apart from the second end in the coupling direction, wherein the first end of the lever is joined directly to the housing, the second end of the lever is spaced apart above a remainder of the housing, and the lever is configured to be compressed when the extender disengages the lever from the mating connector;

wherein the portion in direct contact with the lever comprises a loop engaging the lever.

2. The latching connector ofclaim 1, wherein the portion for contacting the lever comprises a hook for engaging the lever.

3. The latching connector ofclaim 1, wherein the portion for contacting the lever comprises a loop for engaging the lever.

4. The latching connector cable assembly ofclaim 1, wherein the latching connector comprises a multi-port connector comprising and the housing comprises at least two housings configured to engage the mating connector, wherein the lever comprises a lever for each of the at least two housingscomprises a lever, and wherein the portion for contacting in direct contact with the lever is in direct contact with the lever for each of the at least two housings and is configured to disengage each lever for each of the levers at least two housings from the mating connector.

5. The latching connector cable assembly ofclaim 1, wherein the latching connector is an a LC connector.

6. An adaptive release member for selectively actuating disengagement of a latching connector from a mating connector,

the latching connector comprising a housing configured to engage with a mating connector along the coupling direction, the housing including a lever connected to the housing, the lever configured to selectively disengage the latching connector from the mating connector, and the adaptive release member comprising:

a connection portion for removably attaching the adaptive release member to the latching connector housing; and

a release configured to receive a first force opposite to the latching connector coupling direction and transmit a component of the first force to a lever to actuate the lever and disengage the latching connector from the mating connector.

7. The adaptive release member ofclaim 6, wherein the latching connector is a multi-port latching connector comprising at least two housings, wherein each of the at least two housings comprises a lever, and the release is configured to transmit the component of the first force to each of the levers to actuate each of the levers.

8. An extender for selectively disengaging a latching connector from a mating connector, the latching connector comprising a housing configured to engage with the mating connector along a coupling direction, and the housing comprising a lever configured to engage with the mating connector to engage and selectively disengage the latching connector and the mating connector, the extender comprising:

a connection for removably attaching the extender to the housing; and

an actuator configured to receive a first force opposite to the latching connector coupling direction, and to disengage the latching connector from the mating connector by transmitting a component of the first force to the lever to disengage the lever from the mating connector to disengage the latching connector from the mating connector.

9. The extender ofclaim 8, wherein the lever comprises one of a hook and a loop.

10. The extender ofclaim 9, wherein the actuator comprises the other of a hook and a loop for engaging with the lever to transmit the component of the first force from the actuator to the lever.

11. The extender ofclaim 10, wherein the extender further includes a plurality of ridges and grooves disposed along a length of the extender.

12. The extender ofclaim 10, further including a dust cover attached to the extender and configured to protect a transmission medium.

13. The extender ofclaim 10, further including a jacket clamp attached to the extender.

14. The extender ofclaim 10, wherein at least one link is connected to the actuator to adjust a length of the extender.

15. The extender ofclaim 10, further including an identification tag connected to the extender.

16. An extender comprising:

an actuator configured to receive a first force, the first force opposite to a latching connector coupling direction, and to transmit a component of the first force to an adaptive release member, the adaptive release member including:

a release configured to receive a component of the first force and to disengage the latching connector from the mating connector by transmitting a second force to the latching connector, the latching connector comprising:

a housing configured to engage with a mating connector along the coupling direction, the housing including:

a lever connected to the housing, the lever configured to selectively disengage the latching connector from the mating connector, and

an extending member connected to the lever and configured to cooperate with the release to actuate the lever; and

a guide connected to the release and configured to cooperate with the latching connector to restrict the release range of motion.

17. The extender ofclaim 16, wherein the extender further includes a plurality of ridges and grooves disposed along a length of the extender.

18. The extender ofclaim 16, wherein a link is connected to the actuator, the link configured to adjust a length of the extender.

19. The extender ofclaim 16, further including a dust cover attached to the extender and configured to protect a transmission medium.

20. The extender ofclaim 16, further including a jacket clamp attached to the extender.

21. The extender ofclaim 16, further comprising an identification tag connected to the extender.

22. A cable assembly comprising:

a jacket;

an extender; and

a latching connector, the latching connector comprising:

a housing configured to engage with a mating connector along a coupling direction, the housing comprising a lever connected to the housing, the lever configured to selectively disengage the latching connector from the mating connector; and

anthe extender removably attached to the housing and extending a distance from the housing such that the extender protrudes beyond the housing in a direction opposite the coupling direction, the extender comprising an actuating portion in direct contact with the lever, the actuating portion being configured to receive a first force opposite to the coupling direction and transmit a component of the first force to the lever to actuate the lever and disengage the latching connector from the mating connector; and

a transmission medium disposed within the jacket and the housing;

wherein the lever has a first end and a second end and the first end is spaced apart from the second end in the coupling direction, wherein the first end of the lever is in direct contact with the housing, the second end of the lever is spaced apart above a remainder of the housing and is spaced apart above the first end of the lever at a furthest point of the second end of the lever from the first end of the lever, and the lever is configured to be compressed when the extender disengages the lever from the mating connector;

wherein the cable assembly further comprises a guide configured to restrict a range of motion of the extender to a coupling axis;

the actuating portion of the extender extending in the coupling direction from the guide and curving upward as the actuating portion of the extender extends in the coupling direction from the guide to a point of direct contact with the lever, and another portion of the extender extending from the guide in the direction opposite the coupling direction along the coupling axis.

23. The cable assembly ofclaim 22, wherein the latching connector further comprises a guide positioned on the latching connector, the guide configured to restrict the extender range of motion.

24. The cable assembly ofclaim 22, wherein the actuating portion comprises an adaptive release member including:

a release configured to receive the first force and transmit the component of the first force to the extending lever; and

a guide connected to the release and configured to cooperate with the housing to restrict the release range of motion.

25. The cable assembly ofclaim 23, wherein the lever comprises a hook and the actuating portion comprises a loop for engaging with the hook.

26. The cable assembly ofclaim 23, wherein the transmission medium comprises an optical fiber.

27. The cable assembly ofclaim 23, wherein the transmission medium comprises an electrical conductor.

28. The cable assembly ofclaim 23, wherein the latching connector comprises an LC connector, and the mating connector is configured to engage with the LC connector.

29. The cable assembly ofclaim 23, wherein the extender further includes a plurality of ridges and grooves disposed along a length of the extender.

30. The cable assembly ofclaim 23, further including a dust cover attached to the extender and configured to protect the transmission medium.

31. The cable assembly ofclaim 23, further including a jacket clamp attached to the extender.

32. The cable assembly ofclaim 23, wherein a link is connected to the actuator, the link configured to adjust a length of the extender.

33. The cable assembly ofclaim 23, further including an identification tag connected to the extender.

34. The cable assembly ofclaim 23, wherein the guide comprises a boot including a strain relief configured to protect the transmission medium.

35. The cable assembly ofclaim 24, wherein the extender includes an extending member interconnected with the adaptive release member, the extending member being configured to receive the first force and transmit the first force to the release.

36. The cable assembly ofclaim 35, wherein the extending member further includes a plurality of ridges and grooves disposed along a length of the extending member.

37. The cable assembly ofclaim 35, further including a dust cover attached to the extending member and configured to protect the transmission medium.

38. The cable assembly ofclaim 35, further including a jacket clamp attached to the extending member.

39. The cable assembly ofclaim 35, wherein the extending member comprises at least one link is connected to the actuator to adjust a length of the extending member.

40. The cable assembly ofclaim 35, wherein the lever comprises a loop and the release comprises a hook for engaging the loop.

41. The cable assembly ofclaim 35, further including an identification tag connected to the extending member.

42. The cable assembly ofclaim 34, further including:

a restoring member connected to the boot; and

a stop connected to the extender and configured to cooperate with the restoring member to restore the position of the lever to a natural position.

43. A high-density panel assembly comprising:

a panel including a mounting surface;

a first mating connector disposed on the mounting surface and having a first edge;

a second mating connector disposed on the mounting surface and having a second edge;

wherein the distance between the first edge and the second edge is less than 1.25 millimeters; and

latching connectors for mating with the mating connectors, the latching connectors each comprising a housing configured to engage with a mating connector along a coupling axis, each housing including:

a lever configured to engage with the mating connector to engage and selectively disengage the latching connector with the mating connector; and

an extender removably connected with the housing and comprising a portion for contacting the lever to disengage the lever from the mating connector to disengage the latching connector from the mating connector.

44. The high-density panel assembly ofclaim 43, wherein the distance between the first edge and the second edge is greater than or equal to 0 millimeters.

45. The high-density panel assembly ofclaim 43, wherein the first edge abuts the second edge.

46. The high-density panel assembly ofclaim 43, wherein the panel comprises a printed circuit board.

47. The high-density panel assembly ofclaim 43, wherein the latching connector is a LC connector.

48. A method of connecting a latching cable assembly to a panel and extracting the latching cable assembly from the panel, the latching cable assembly comprising a housing, and the housing comprising a lever configured to engage with a mating connector of the panel to engage and disengage the latching assembly and the mating connector, and the method comprising:

removably attaching an extender to the housing, the extender comprising an actuator portion for engaging the lever and configured to transmit a force to the lever;

inserting the latching assembly into the mating connector along a first coupling direction of movement to engage the lever with the mating connector and retain the latching assembly in the panel;

applying a force to the extender along a direction opposite to the coupling direction of the latching assembly; and

transmitting a component of the force to the lever via the actuator portion to disengage the lever from the mating connector and disengage the latching assembly from the mating connector; and

extracting the latching assembly from the panel.

49. The method ofclaim 48, further comprising replacing the extender of an extracted latching cable assembly by detaching the extender from the housing, and removably attaching a different extender to the housing.

50. The cable assembly of claim 1 wherein the lever has an extending member at the second end, the extending member defining a recess receiving a portion of the extender therein.

51. The cable assembly of claim 1 further comprising a guide defining an aperture, the extender being received in the aperture.

52. The cable assembly of claim 1 wherein the extender is connected to the housing for translational movement parallel to the coupling axis to disengage the latching connector from the mating connector.

53. The cable assembly of claim 1, wherein a fulcrum of the lever is at the first end of the lever.

54. The cable assembly of claim 53, wherein the lever comprises an extending member comprising a hook at the second end of the lever.

55. The cable assembly of claim 54, wherein the loop directly contacts the lever at the hook.

56. The cable assembly of claim 1, wherein the lever is configured to be compressed such that the second end of the lever moves downward in relation to the remainder of the housing when the extender disengages the lever from the mating connector.

57. The cable assembly of claim 1, wherein the extender is entirely above the housing of the latching connector.

58. The cable assembly of claim 1, further comprising a guide defining an aperture, the extender extending along the coupling axis across the guide such that a range of motion of the extender is restricted to the coupling axis.

59. The cable assembly of claim 58, wherein the loop defines a first end of the extender, the extender having a second end spaced apart from the first end, the first end of the extender being spaced apart from the guide along the coupling axis in the coupling direction, the second end of the extender being spaced apart from the guide along the coupling axis in a direction opposite the coupling direction.

60. The cable assembly as set forth in claim 58, wherein the extender is configured to move along the range of motion relative to the guide to compress the lever.

61. The cable assembly as set forth in claim 1, further comprising a boot connected to the housing, the extender being configured to move along the coupling axis relative to the boot to compress the lever.

62. The cable assembly of claim 22, wherein the transmission medium comprises an optical fiber.

63. The cable assembly of claim 22, wherein the lever comprises a hook and the actuating portion comprises a loop for engaging with the hook.

64. The cable assembly of claim 22, wherein the latching connector comprises an LC connector, and the mating connector is configured to engage with the LC connector.

65. The cable assembly of claim 22, further including a dust cover attached to the extender and configured to protect the transmission medium.

66. The cable assembly of claim 22, further including a jacket clamp attached to the extender.

67. The cable assembly of claim 22, wherein a fulcrum of the lever is at the first end of the lever.

68. The cable assembly of claim 67, wherein the lever is configured to be compressed such that the second end of the lever moves downward in relation to the fulcrum at the first end of the lever.

69. The cable assembly as set forth in claim 22, wherein the lever is configured to be compressed such that the second end of the lever moves downward in relation to the first end of the lever.

70. The cable assembly as set forth in claim 22, wherein the guide defines an aperture, the second end of the lever being spaced apart above the aperture.

71. The cable assembly as set forth in claim 22, wherein the extender is configured to move along the range of motion relative to the guide.

72. A cable assembly comprising:

a latching connector comprising a housing configured to engage with a mating connector in a coupling direction along a coupling axis and an extender, the housing including:

a lever configured to engage with the mating connector to engage and selectively disengage the latching connector with the mating connector, the housing having a length along the coupling axis; and

the extender removably connected with the housing and comprising a portion in direct contact with the lever to disengage the lever from the mating connector to disengage the latching connector from the mating connector, the extender having a length along the coupling axis greater than a length of the housing;

wherein the lever has a first end and a second end and the first end is spaced apart from the second end in the coupling direction, wherein the first end of the lever is joined directly to the housing, the second end of the lever is spaced apart above a remainder of the housing, and the lever is configured to be compressed when the extender disengages the lever from the mating connector;

wherein the portion in direct contact with the lever comprises a loop engaging the lever;

wherein the portion in direct contact with the lever moves downward toward the housing when the lever is compressed.

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