CN100468107C - Keyed Fiber Optic Connectors - Google Patents

Abstract

A keying system for providing selective interconnection between a receptacle receptacle and a connector plug terminating an optical fiber adapted to be inserted into the receptacle receptacle. The keying system includes a raised protrusion configured as one of a plurality of predetermined convex keying geometries and a cavity configured as one of a plurality of predetermined cavity keying geometries. The protrusion is in a part of the receptacle receptacle or on the forward end of the connector plug, and the cavity is formed in another part of the receptacle receptacle or in the forward end of the connector plug . At least one of the predetermined convex keying geometries matches at least one of the predetermined cavity keying geometries. When the male keying geometry matches the cavity keying geometry, the male body can be inserted into the cavity thereby interconnecting the connector plug and the receptacle receptacle. In this way, a correct interconnection between the connector and other connectors or between the connector and the receptacle can be ensured, thereby providing an enhanced level of security.

Description

Keyed Fiber Optic Connectors

technical field

The invention relates to a keyed optical fiber connector. More specifically, the present invention relates to interlocking connector and receptacle pairs for fiber optic cables that have a geometric keying system molded into the interface, thereby preventing a connector with a first key from receivers are interconnected.

Background technique

Optical fibers terminated by connectors and receptacles adapted to receive these connectors are an essential part of virtually any fiber optic communication system. For example, such connectors and receptacles can be used to interconnect fiber optic segments to create longer lengths, to connect fiber optics to active or passive devices, and the like. However, in some cases, such as for safety reasons or for better management of telecommunications networks, it is physically desirable to restrict the insertion of connector plugs into specific receptacle sockets, and thus prevent communication via that connector plug and receptacle socket data transmission.

The prior art discloses various systems for preventing insertion of a connector plug into a receptacle receptacle. One of these prior art systems includes at least one tab disposed at a location on the connector plug, each tab adapted to be inserted into a corresponding tab receiving notch molded into the receptacle receptacle . In the absence of such a hollow, the tab collides with the opening of the receptacle receptacle, thereby preventing the connector plug from being fully inserted into the receptacle receptacle, thereby preventing the connector plug from properly interconnecting with the receptacle receptacle . One disadvantage of these prior art techniques is that the tabs, which are typically molded into the plastic connector plug housing, can be easily removed by filing or using a sharp knife edge or the like. Another disadvantage is that such prior art designs only allow a distinction between two types of connector plugs: connector plugs with tabs and connector plugs without tabs.

The prior art also discloses keying systems such as US patent application published under No. 2002/0126960 A1, which include a connector plug and a receptacle socket. The interconnection of the connector plug and receptacle receptacle is limited to the connector plug/receptacle receptacle pair where the key in the receptacle receptacle fits closely with the corresponding key receiving groove in the connector plug Cooperate. A connector plug with a key receiving slot in one location cannot be interconnected with a receptacle receptacle with a differently positioned key. As a result, by providing several differently positioned keys and key receiving slots, a system of selective interconnection between connector plugs and receptacle receptacles can be achieved. However, such systems are generally impractical in many fiber optic systems given the relatively small size of the connector plug and receptacle receptacle.

Contents of the invention

To address the shortcomings of the prior art, a keying system is provided for providing selective interconnection between a receptacle receptacle and a connector plug that terminates an optical fiber, the connector plug being adapted to be inserted into the receptacle receptacle . The keying system includes a raised protrusion configured as one of a plurality of predetermined convex keying geometries, and a cavity configured as one of a plurality of predetermined cavity keying geometries. A projection is in one of the receptacle plugs, or on the forward end of the connector plug, and a cavity is formed in the other receptacle receptacle or in the forward end of the connector plug. At least one of the predetermined convex keying geometries matches at least one of the predetermined cavity keying geometries. When the male keying geometry matches the cavity keying geometry, the male body can be inserted into the cavity, thereby interconnecting the connector plug with the receptacle receptacle.

Also provided is a receptacle for providing selective interconnection with a connector plug terminating a first optical fiber, the connector plug including a cavity formed in a forward end thereof having a connector keying geometry . The receptacle includes at least one receptacle receptacle including a raised boss therein shaped to correspond to one of a plurality of predetermined receptacle keying geometries, the connector keying geometry corresponding to One of the predetermined receiver keying geometries. When the receptacle keying geometry corresponds to the connector keying geometry, the connector plug can be inserted into the receptacle receptacle.

Additionally, a receptacle is provided for providing selective interconnection with a connector plug terminating a first optical fiber, the connector plug comprising a male body having a connector key formed in a forward end thereof solid geometry. The receptacle includes at least one receptacle receptacle including a cavity formed therein having a shape corresponding to one of a plurality of predetermined receptacle keying geometries, the connector keying geometry corresponding to the predetermined receptacle keying geometry One of the geometric shapes. When the receptacle keying geometry corresponds to the connector keying geometry, the connector plug can be inserted into the receptacle receptacle.

Additionally, a connector for terminating an optical fiber is provided for providing selective interconnection with a receptacle receptacle comprising a raised boss having a receptacle keying geometry formed therein shape. The connector includes a connector plug adapted to be inserted into a receptacle receptacle and includes a cavity having one of a plurality of predetermined connector keying geometries formed in a forward end thereof, the receptacle keying geometry being aligned with the One of the predetermined connector keying geometries corresponds. When the receptacle keying geometry corresponds to the connector keying geometry, the connector plug can be inserted into the receptacle receptacle.

Also provided is a connector terminating an optical fiber for providing selective interconnection with a receptacle receptacle including a cavity having a receptacle keying geometry formed therein. The connector includes a connector plug adapted to be inserted into a receptacle receptacle and includes a male body having one of a plurality of predetermined connector keying geometries formed in a forward end thereof, the receptacle keying geometry The shape corresponds to one of the predetermined connector keying geometries. When the receptacle keying geometry corresponds to the connector keying geometry, the connector plug can be inserted into the receptacle receptacle.

Additionally, a system for providing selective interconnection between first and second optical fibers is provided. The system includes a receptacle, a first connector plug terminating a first optical fiber, and a second connector plug terminating a second optical fiber, the receptacle including back-to-back receptacle receptacles each including a protrusion disposed therein and configured as one of a plurality of predetermined receptacle keying geometries, the first connector plug is adapted to be inserted into a first one of the back-to-back receptacle receptacles and includes a cavity formed in the forward end of the plug, The cavity is configured as one of a plurality of predetermined connector keying geometries, the second connector plug is adapted to be inserted into a second of the back-to-back receptacle receptacles and includes a cavity formed in the forward end of the plug, the cavity is configured to One of a plurality of predetermined connector keying geometries. at least one of the predetermined connector keying geometries matches at least one of the predetermined receptacle keying geometries, and when the receptacle keying geometry of the convex body of the first of the back-to-back receptacle receptacles matches the first line When the connector keying geometry of the cable corresponds, and the receptor keying geometry of the second convex body of the back-to-back receptacle receptacle corresponds to the connector keying geometry of the second cable, the first cable can The first receptacle is inserted, and the second cable can be inserted into the second receptacle, bringing the first optical fiber into axial alignment with the second optical fiber.

In addition, a receptacle is provided for providing selective interconnection between first and second fiber optic cables, each cable including a connector plug including a cavity having a Key geometry to the connector in the front end. The receptacle includes back-to-back receptacle receptacles, each receptacle including a raised boss having a shape corresponding to one of a plurality of predetermined receptacle keying geometries. Each connector keying geometry corresponds to one of the predetermined receptacle keying geometries, and when the male receptacle keying geometry of the first of the back-to-back receptacle receptacles is aligned with the connector of the first cable The keying geometry corresponds, and when the receptacle keying geometry of the protrusion of the second of the back-to-back receptacle receptacles corresponds to the connector keying geometry of the second cable, the connector plug of the first cable The first receptacle is pluggable, and the connector plug of the second cable is pluggable into the second receptacle, thereby interconnecting the first and second cables.

A field configurable receptacle for providing selective interconnection with a connector plug including a connector keying geometry formed in a forward end thereof in a fiber optic communication system is also provided. The receptacle includes at least one receptacle receptacle adapted to receive the connector plug and includes a configurable shape corresponding to one of a plurality of predetermined receptacle keying geometries. The He connector keying geometry corresponds to one of the predetermined receptacle keying geometries, and when the shape is configured to correspond to the connector keying geometry, the connector plug can be inserted into the receptacle.

In addition, a field configurable connector is provided for providing selective interconnection with a receptacle in a fiber optic communication system, the receptacle comprising at least one receptacle receptacle having a receptacle formed therein Bond geometry. The connector includes a connector plug adapted to be inserted into the receptacle receptacle and including a configurable shape corresponding to one of a plurality of predetermined connector keying geometries. One of the predetermined connector keying geometries corresponds to the receptacle keying geometry, and when the receptacle keying geometry corresponds to the connector keying geometry, the connector plug is insertable into the receptacle receptacle.

Description of drawings

Figure 1 is an orthogonal view of a connector in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the invention;

Figure 2 is a front plan view of a connector according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention;

Figure 3 is an orthogonal view of a receptacle in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the invention;

Figure 4 is a front plan view of a receptacle in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the invention;

Figure 5A is an orthogonal view of a connector in accordance with an alternative illustrative embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 5B is a side plan view of a connector in accordance with an alternative illustrative embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 6 is a front plan view of a receptacle having a connector installed in its receptacle in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 7 is a side sectional view along VII-VII in Fig. 6;

Figure 8 is an orthogonal view of a connector in accordance with an alternative illustrative embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 9 is a front plan view of a receptacle in accordance with an alternative illustrative embodiment of the invention;

Figure 10 is an orthogonal view of a connector in accordance with a second alternative illustrative embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 11 is an orthogonal view of a receptacle in accordance with a second alternative illustrative embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 12 is an orthogonal view of a receptacle in accordance with an alternative illustrative embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 13 is an orthogonal view of a connector in accordance with a third alternative illustrative embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 14 is an orthogonal view of a connector in accordance with a fourth alternative illustrative embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 15 is an orthogonal view of a receptacle in accordance with a fourth alternative illustrative embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 16 is an orthogonal view of a receptacle in accordance with a fifth alternative illustrative embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 17 is a front plan view of a receptacle according to a fifth alternative illustrative embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 18 is a side cross-sectional view along XVIII in Figure 17 of a receptacle according to a fifth alternative illustrative embodiment of the present invention;

19A is an orthogonal view of an illustrative embodiment of an installer-modifiable connector keying system;

19B is a front orthogonal view of a second illustrative embodiment of an installer-modifiable connector keying system;

Figure 20 is a front orthogonal view of a receptacle for mounting on an active device, in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

Detailed ways

Referring now to FIG. 1, a fiber optic connector in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the present invention will be described. This connector is disclosed, generally indicated with reference numeral 2, for connecting a fiber optic cable 4 to a receptacle (not shown). As shown, the connector 2 forms part of a cable fitted with an LC type connector plug attached to one end of the cable. It should be noted that while the illustrative embodiments of the invention are described with reference to LC-type connectors, there is no intent to limit the invention to this type of connector. Thus, the present invention may also be used with eg LC, SC, FC, MU and other similar connectors having ferrule guides and/or supports.

Referring also to FIG. 1, the connector consists of a connector plug housing 6 made of a suitable non-conductive material, such as a glass-filled thermoplastic, through which an optical fiber 8 extends and from the direction of the optical fiber 8. The front end 10 protrudes. The optical fiber 8 is held rigidly within a hollow ferrule 12, made of a suitable hard, non-conductive material, such as ceramic, which in turn is held axially aligned within the plug housing 6, thereby ensuring that the fiber and plug housing The central axis A of 6 remains substantially axially aligned. Typically, the ferrule 12 is held rigidly within the plug housing 6, but may also be spring loaded to allow some forward and rearward movement of the ferrule 12 and thus the optical fiber 8 along the central axis A.

A cavity 14, also axially aligned with the central axis A, is molded or machined into the forward end 10 of the plug housing 6 in which the fiber 8/ferrule assembly 12 is axially aligned. A flexible locking tab or latch 16 is attached to the outside of the plug housing 6, allowing the plug housing 6 to be removably attached to a suitable receptacle (not shown). The joint between the fiber optic cable 4 and the plug housing 6 is protected by means of a flexible strain relief boot 18, typically made of rubber, rubberized plastic or the like. As can be seen below, a pair of raised tabs as in 20 can be molded to the outside of the plug housing which mates closely with corresponding notches in the receptacle (neither shown).

During manufacture, optical fiber 8 is typically inserted through ferrule 12 and spliced to ferrule 12 using a suitable adhesive or splicing technique. The end of the fiber 8/ferrule 12 is then cut and polished according to the predetermined geometry required by the implemented standard. The polishing causes the exposed end 22 of the optical fiber 8 to extend forward towards the forward end 10 of the plug housing, thereby allowing light to propagate to and from the optical fiber 8 .

Referring now to FIG. 2, a first illustrative embodiment of a keying system in accordance with the present invention will be described in more detail. The cavity 14 is configured as one of a plurality of predetermined connector keying geometries through which the fiber 8/ferrule 12 assembly extends. The connector keying geometry is illustratively provided by a cavity having a cavity keying geometry having an oval or egg-shaped cross-section having a first generally circular concentric shape of radius X ₁ A portion and a keying portion 24 extending a distance X ₂ from the center of the optical fiber 8 , X ₂ is illustratively greater than the radius X ₁ . As shown in FIG. 2 , cavity keying portion 24 , such as a flute, notch or raised portion, is illustratively symmetrical about axis B, which is at a predetermined connector keying angle θ with horizontal plane C. As shown in FIG. Of course, the point of maximum extension _x2 from the core of the fiber 8 must be chosen to be sufficiently smaller than the distance y between the center of the fiber 8 and the outer surface of the plug housing 6 to ensure that for all bonding angles θ in the cavity 14 Sufficient material remains between the plug housing 6 and the outer surface. Other dimensions of the cavity keying portion 24, such as width and shape, are preferably selected such that the cavity keying portion 24 is difficult to modify, for example by removing the cavity keying portion 24 in the case of a bump, by using a knife or the like, or without destroying the connector 2. modification, thereby preventing the user from modifying the connector 2 for other purposes.

The cross-section of cavity keying portion 24 may alternatively be of a different shape, such as a square notch or a recessed depression in the sidewall of cavity 14, or may also be asymmetrical. As will be seen below, the combination of cavity keying portion 24 and connector keying angle θ provides one embodiment for the connector portion of the keying system.

Referring now to Figure 3, a receptacle in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the invention will be described. The receptacle, referenced generally using the numeral 26, illustratively includes a receptacle housing 28 fabricated from a non-conductive material such as glass-filled thermoplastic into which one or more receptacle receptacles 30 are molded. . Referring to FIG. 1 in addition to FIG. 3 , the receptacle 30 is dimensioned to receive the forward end 10 of the plug housing 6 snugly retained therein. Note that while a dual configuration receptacle 26 having two (2) receptacles 30 is disclosed in this illustrative embodiment, the receptacle 26 could also be a single body with a single receptacle 30, or three (3) ) or more sockets 30.

Referring again to FIG. 3, the receptacle housing 28 can be fastened to a terminal block panel, etc. Shows).

Each receptacle receptacle 30 is terminated by a rear wall 36 and molded to the rear wall 36 is a raised boss 38 illustratively oval or egg-shaped with a circular ferrule receiving hole therein 40. Also molded into the receptacle 30 is an interlocking mechanism 42, which, with reference to FIG. 1 in addition to FIG. The connector 2 is interlocked with the receptacle 26 . A pair of notches 44 are also molded into the receptacle 30 which mate with corresponding tabs 20 molded into the connector plug housing 6 . The tabs 20 prevent the connector 2 from being fully inserted into the receptacle 26 which does not have these notches. Note that in an alternative embodiment, both tab 20 and notch 44 may be absent without affecting the present invention.

Referring now to FIG. 4, each receptacle 30 is configured as one of a plurality of predetermined receptacle keying geometries. Illustratively, the receptacle keying geometry is provided by a raised boss 38 having a convex keying geometry mounted on the rear wall 36 of the receptacle 30, comprising an oval or egg-shaped cross-section having A first generally circular concentric portion of radius X ₁ and a keyed portion 46 extending a distance X ₂ from the center of ferrule cavity 40, X ₂ is illustratively greater than radius X ₁ , although in a given implementation The distance X ₂ can also be smaller than X ₁ . The male keying portion 46 is illustratively symmetric about an axis such as D which forms a predetermined receptor keying angle with the horizontal plane E

不匹配，则连接器插头外壳6的前表面10的一部分将与凸起的凸体38的凸体键固部分46相撞，由此阻止连接器2正确地插进接受器26。Referring to FIG. 2 in addition to FIG. 4, in order to properly fit the connector 2 with the receptacle 26, the keying angle θ and And the lengths X ₁ , X ₂ and x ₁ , x ₂ must match so that the cross-section of the raised bump 38 is a mirror image of the cross-section of the cavity 14 and the cavity 14 fits snugly over the raised bump 38 . For example, in an illustrative embodiment, if the bonding angle θ and

If there is a mismatch, a portion of the front surface 10 of the connector plug housing 6 will collide with the raised body keying portion 46 of the raised body 38 , thereby preventing the connector 2 from being properly inserted into the receptacle 26 .

的凸起的凸体38₁、38₂、38₃。应理解，虽然示出了接受器26具有三个凸起的凸体38₁、38₂、38₃和三个键固角但是也能容易地制造具有许多插座30的接受器26，在若干组合中的任何一个，每个插座30具有对应的凸起的凸体38和键固角

还应理解，具有不同连接器键固角θ的多个连接器2也能捆在一起成为多连接器组件(未示出)。还应理解，诸如30₄的插座可以包括有诸如38₄的凸起的凸体，不包括接受器键固部分，其截面为圆形，由此允许将常规的非键固连接器插进接受器26。It is foreseeable that eight (8) bonding angles θ and A combination of 26 will provide sufficient keying for most applications, although it will be appreciated that this combination can easily be extended to sixteen (16) or even larger, utilizing the precision fabrication of connector 2 and receptacle 26. Referring again to FIG. 4 , it is also foreseeable that the receptacle 26 can have multiple receptacles 30 ₁ , 30 ₂ , 30 ₃ , each receptacle 30 ₁ , 30 ₂ , 30 ₃ having a different keying angle.

Convex protrusions 38 ₁ , 38 ₂ , 38 ₃ . It should be understood that while the receptacle 26 is shown with three raised projections 38 ₁ , 38 ₂ , 38 ₃ and three keyed corners But it is also easy to manufacture the receptacle 26 with many sockets 30, each socket 30 having a corresponding raised boss 38 and keyed corner in any of several combinations.

It should also be understood that multiple connectors 2 with different connector keying angles θ can also be bundled together into a multi-connector assembly (not shown). It should also be understood that a receptacle such as ₃₀₄ may include a raised body such as ₃₈₄ , excluding the receptacle keying portion, which is circular in cross-section, thereby allowing conventional non-keying connectors to be inserted into the receptacle. device 26.

Note that while the above illustrative embodiment has been described with the cavity 14 molded or machined into the forward end 10 of the plug housing 6 and the raised boss 38 positioned in the receptacle receptacle 30, those skilled in the art It should be understood that, with suitable modifications, cavity 14 could be molded or otherwise formed into receptacle receptacle 30 as well as a projection formed in forward end 10 of plug housing 6 .

Note that the system can be designed to function as a one-way system or a two-way system. A one-way system is defined as a system in which a keyed connector can only be connected to a keyed receptacle, and a two-way system is defined as a system in which a keyed connector is backwards Solid connector for use with existing receptacles.

Referring to FIG. 4, for example, an illustrative embodiment of a two-way system using an existing circular conventional protrusion as in ₃₈₄ is disclosed. These conventional protrusions 38 ₄ allow the plug housing 6 of the connector 2 to be correctly inserted into the receptacle 30 ₄ , regardless of the connector keying angle θ (of course, as long as the length X ₁ of FIG. 2 is less than the length X ₂ and corresponds to Radius of traditional convex body 30 ₄ ).

Referring to FIG. 5A in addition to FIG. 4 , an illustrative embodiment of a one-way system is disclosed. To prevent keyed connector 2 from being inserted into a receptacle such as receptacle ₃₀₄ , tab 39 may be molded into or otherwise attached to the outside of plug housing 6 . Referring to FIG. 5B , it is known in the art that existing LC-type behind-the-wall (BTW) connectors and receptacles include such components. However, the tabs of these prior art connectors only partially extend along the plug housing 6 and stop at a position Z ₁ far short of the forward end 10 of the plug housing 6 . By extending the tab 39 to stop at a position _Z2 closer to the forward end 10 of the plug housing 6, the plug housing 6 is also prevented from being fully inserted into a conventional LC receptacle. In order to properly insert such a connector 2 into the receptacle 26, the receptacle 30 will have to be modified to include notches into which the tabs 39 fit. It will now be apparent to those skilled in the art that in the absence of a receiving groove in a receptacle (neither shown) for the tab 39, or in the absence of a groove of the correct depth, the tab 39 will Collision with the receptacle housing, thereby preventing the user from fully inserting the plug housing 6 into the socket 30 .

的给定颜色来颜色编码，以便于帮助用户确定哪个连接器2属于哪个插座30。另外，诸如符号、字母字符等的其他编码手段可单独使用，或与颜色结合使用以提供多种手段来将键固连接器和接受器插座彼此区别。It is also foreseeable that the plug housing 6 and receptacle 30 should be utilized corresponding to a given pair of keying angles θ,

are color-coded with a given color of , so as to help the user determine which connector 2 belongs to which receptacle 30 . Additionally, other coding means such as symbols, alphabetic characters, etc. may be used alone or in combination with color to provide a variety of means to distinguish the keyed connector and receptacle receptacle from one another.

是匹配的一对，插入时，插头外壳6的向前端10与插座30的后壁36相撞。在此点处，闩锁16由互相锁定机构42啮合，由此在插座30中牢固地保持着插头外壳6。同时，包含光纤的套圈12插进套圈接受孔40，并且凸起的凸体38由腔14围绕，光纤8的暴露端22基本上与参考平面F对准。将第二连接器(未示出)插进模制进接受器26的向后的侧面并与插座30成背对背的关系的类似插座46，将具有以下的效果：使第二连接器的光纤的暴露端与光纤8的暴露端22达到紧密接触，光纤基本上轴对准，并由此允许把在光纤中的一个中传播的光传送到另一个。典型地(虽然不是必须)，如30、46中处于背对背关系的插座将具有相同的预定接受器键固几何形状，以确保能互连具有兼容连接器键固几何形状的光纤线缆。Referring now to FIG. 6 , the connector 2 is shown plugged into the first receptacle 30 of the dual receptacle 26 . Referring to Figure 7 in addition to Figure 6, and assuming bond angles θ and

are a matched pair, and when inserted, the forward end 10 of the plug housing 6 collides with the rear wall 36 of the receptacle 30 . At this point, the latch 16 is engaged by the interlocking mechanism 42 , thereby holding the plug housing 6 securely in the receptacle 30 . Simultaneously, the ferrule 12 containing the optical fiber is inserted into the ferrule receiving hole 40, and the raised protrusion 38 is surrounded by the cavity 14, and the exposed end 22 of the optical fiber 8 is substantially aligned with the reference plane F. Inserting a second connector (not shown) into a similar receptacle 46 molded into the rearward side of receptacle 26 and in back-to-back relationship with receptacle 30 will have the effect that the optical fibers of the second connector The exposed end comes into intimate contact with the exposed end 22 of the optical fiber 8, the fibers being substantially axially aligned and thereby allowing light propagating in one of the fibers to be transmitted to the other. Typically, though not necessarily, receptacles in back-to-back relationship as in 30, 46 will have the same predetermined receptacle keying geometry to ensure that fiber optic cables with compatible connector keying geometries can be interconnected.

The connector 2 can be easily removed from the receptacle 26 by depressing the latch 16 , thereby releasing the interlocking mechanism 42 .

与具有接受器键固部分的插座紧密配合，当然，假设接受器键固角

与连接器键固角θ、θ’中的一个匹配。对本领域技术人员明显的是，可以增加处在多个键固角θ的连接器键固部分24的数目，以为多种键固情形而准备。Referring to Figure 8, a connector 2 according to an alternative illustrative embodiment of the present invention is disclosed. In this embodiment, cavity 14 includes two connector keying portions 24, 24' corresponding to two different connector keying angles Θ, Θ'. In this way, it is possible to provide connectors 2 with different keying angles

Mates snugly with sockets that have a keyed portion of the receiver, assuming, of course, the keyed angle of the receiver

Match with one of the connector keying angles θ, θ'. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the number of connector keying portions 24 at multiple keying angles θ may be increased to accommodate multiple keying situations.

Referring to FIG. 9 in addition to FIG. 8 , a receptacle 26 is disclosed having sockets 30 ₁ , 30 ₂ , 30 ₃ with raised bosses 38 ₁ , 38 ₂ , 38 ₃ . Raised bosses 38 ₂ , 38 ₃ are illustrated as having a plurality of receptacle keying portions (respectively) 46 ₂ ′, 46 ₂ ″ and 46 ₃ ′, 46 ₃ ″, 46 ₃ ″’. When combined with A set of corresponding connectors 2 of multiple connector keying portions 24, 24', etc., when combined, allows for a wide variation in the number of possible keys that may be used for a given implementation.

Referring now to FIG. 10 , there is disclosed a connector 2 according to a second alternative embodiment comprising a plug housing 6 having a cavity 48 therein machined or molded to include a generally circular cross-section 50 and protrusions 52 such as ridges, tabs, etc. that run axially along the inside of cavity 48 . Similar to the keying systems discussed above, the bumps 52 are placed along the inside of the lumen at the desired keying angle Θ. Referring now to FIG. 11 in addition to FIG. 10 , a receptacle 26 including one or more receptacles 30 having raised bosses 54 is shown. Raised bosses 54 are molded or machined to include indentations 56 therein, for example, such as notches, grooves or grooves. Similar to ridge 52, notch 56 at the desired bond angle Place on raised bump 54 .

It should be understood that while the protuberances 52 and corresponding indentations 56 have been depicted as symmetrically recessed in cross-section, other cross-sectional shapes, such as square or triangular notches, may also find application in the context of the present invention. Additionally, the shape may be asymmetrical.

Referring now to FIG. 12 in addition to FIG. 11 , in order to prevent a standard connector cable (not shown) from being inserted into the receptacle 30 keyed by the raised projection 54 having the notch 56 therein, the tab 57 can be molded. or otherwise engage inside the receptacle 30 ₁ , 30 ₂ in the receptacle 26 . In order to insert a connector into a given receptacle 30 ₁ or 30 ₂ , it will be necessary to modify the connector receptacle housing (not shown) to include appropriate notches therein in order to accept tab 57 .

Referring to Figure 13, a connector 2 according to a third alternative illustrative embodiment of the present invention is disclosed. In this embodiment, the plug housing 6 is machined or molded to include the cavity 58 with the indentation 60 and the protrusion 62 therein. The indentations 60 and protrusions 62 are placed in the cavity 58 at the desired bond angle as discussed above. Such a connector 2 will mate snugly with a receptacle having a receptacle therein, including a notch and a raised bump positioned at a keying angle (both not shown) that key with the notch 60 and bump 62 of the connector 2 Fixed angle matching.

Referring to Figure 14, a connector 2 according to a fourth alternative illustrative embodiment of the present invention is disclosed. In this embodiment, the plug housing 6 is machined or molded to include a cavity 64 having a cross-section that varies depending on its depth. Illustratively, cavity 64 is comprised of an illustratively cylindrical inner alignment portion 66 , outer portion 68 having an oval or egg-shaped cross-section at depth Z, and keying portion 70 . Consistent with the keyed connectors already disclosed above, the keyed portion 70 is positioned at a predetermined keyed angle θ with respect to the horizontal axis C.

而定位。对本领域技术人员，能清楚的认识到，只要键固角θ、

匹配，为将连接器2完全地插进接受器插座30，凸起凸体72的下部分74的厚度Z必须小于或等于腔64的上部分66的深度Z。Referring to FIGS. 14 and 15 , the corresponding receptacle 26 includes one or more sockets 30 having raised protrusions 72 machined or otherwise molded into the receptacle rear wall 36 . Raised body 72 includes a lower portion 74 having an apparent oval or egg shape and an upper alignment portion 76 that is cylindrical in appearance. In addition, the lower portion 74 has a protruding keying portion 78 which forms a predetermined keying angle with the horizontal axis E.

And positioning. Those skilled in the art can clearly understand that as long as the bonding angle θ,

To mate, the thickness Z of the lower portion 74 of the raised body 72 must be less than or equal to the depth Z of the upper portion 66 of the cavity 64 in order to fully insert the connector 2 into the receptacle receptacle 30 .

匹配并且厚度Z小于或等于厚度Z，当把插头外壳6插进接受器26的插座30时，腔64将与凸起凸体72紧密接合，由此允许将连接器2安全地扣紧到接受器。如果键固角θ、

不匹配，则直观地、插头外壳6的向前一端10将与凸起凸体72的伸出键固部分78碰撞，由此防止将插头外壳6正确地插在插座30中。类似地，如果厚度z略大于深度z，则会防止插头管壳6被完全地插进插座30，因此防止可变形的互锁调整片或闩锁被啮合。Still referring to Figure 14 and Figure 15, as long as the bonding angle θ,

match and thickness Z is less than or equal to thickness Z, when the plug housing 6 is inserted into the receptacle 30 of the receptacle 26, the cavity 64 will tightly engage with the raised body 72, thereby allowing the connector 2 to be securely fastened to the receptacle. device. If the bonding angle θ,

Without a match, intuitively, the forward end 10 of the plug housing 6 will collide with the protruding keying portion 78 of the raised projection 72 , thereby preventing the plug housing 6 from being properly inserted into the receptacle 30 . Similarly, if the thickness z is slightly greater than the depth z, it will prevent the plug cartridge 6 from being fully inserted into the receptacle 30, thus preventing the deformable interlocking tab or latch from being engaged.

It is also envisioned that the keying system of the present invention may be configured by the installer in a field configuration to provide connectors and receptacles keyed by the installer as selected. Referring to FIG. 19A , for example, cavity 14 may be provided in interchangeable module 82 for proper insertion into a suitable receiving cutout 84 in the forward end of plug housing 6 . Module 82 will be held in place within the plug housing by clips, adhesive or other suitable securing means.

Referring to FIG. 19B , alternatively, the raised projection 38 can be manufactured separately from the receptacle 26 and includes a shaft 86 having a second geometric shape therein, for example a regular geometric form such as a triangle, square, hexagon shape, octagon, etc., and a series of grooves 88. For the desired receptacle keying angle, the shaft 86 is rotated and inserted into the shaft receiving opening 90 having a first geometry in the rear wall 36 of each receptacle 30 until the raised lug meets the The rear wall 36 remains in contact. Shaft receiving opening 90 can include, for example, a ridged inner surface 92 for snug engagement with a series of grooves on shaft 86 . For example, the shaft 86 can also be held in place within the shaft receiving opening 90 with adhesive.

Alternatively, the lumens and protrusions of the present invention can be removed from or added to the lumen or raised lumens by providing a suitable tool (e.g. by cutting away a portion of the raised protrusion or making a groove inside the lumen). Raised bosses can be modifiable and adaptable.

Referring to Fig. 20, although the above invention has been described using a BTW receptacle for interconnecting two connectors, the keying system can also be molded in for mounting on active components, attenuators, etc. (not shown out) on the single-sided receiver 94.

While the invention has been described above by way of illustrative embodiments, the embodiments can be modified arbitrarily without departing from the spirit and essence of the subject invention.

Claims (113)

1. A keying system for providing selective interconnection between a receptacle receptacle and a connector plug terminating an optical fiber, said connector plug adapted to be inserted into said receptacle receptacle, said key Solid systems include: a raised protrusion comprising a concentric portion and a keying portion and configured as one of a plurality of predefined protrusion keying geometries; and a cavity comprising a concentric portion and a keying portion and configured as one of a plurality of predefined cavity keying geometries; wherein said projection is in one of said receptacle receptacles or on the forward end of said connector plug, and said cavity is formed in the other of said receptacle receptacle or said forward end of said connector plug in the front end; wherein at least one of said predefined convex keying geometries matches at least one of said predefined cavity keying geometries; and Wherein when the male body keying geometry matches the cavity keying geometry, the male body is insertable into the cavity, thereby interconnecting the connector plug with the receptacle receptacle. 2. The keying system of claim 1, wherein said raised protrusion is in said receptacle receptacle and said cavity is formed in said forward end of said connector plug. 3. The keying system of claim 1, wherein said male concentric portion and said cavity concentric portion have circular cross-sections of substantially the same diameter. 4. The keying system of claim 1, wherein said male keying portion includes at least one bump and said cavity keying portion includes at least one indentation. 5. The keying system of claim 4, wherein said at least one protrusion comprises a chamfered outer surface. 6. The keying system of claim 1, wherein said male keying portion includes at least one indentation and said cavity keying portion includes at least one bump. 7. The keying system of claim 4, wherein said at least one protrusion is a ridge and said at least one indentation is a notch. 8. The keying system of claim 6, wherein said at least one protrusion is a ridge and said at least one indentation is a notch. 9. The keying system of claim 1, wherein said male keying portion includes at least one protrusion and at least one indentation. 10. The keying system of claim 1, wherein said cavity keying portion includes at least one protrusion and at least one indentation. 11. The keying system of claim 4, wherein said male concentric portion further includes an upper alignment portion and said cavity concentric portion further includes an inner alignment portion. 12. The keying system of claim 4, wherein said protrusion has a height substantially equal to the depth of said indentation. 13. The keying system of claim 1, wherein said keying portions are arranged at a predefined angle about a center of said concentric portion. 14. The keying system of claim 13, wherein the predefined angle is selected from the group consisting of 0°, 45°, 90°, 135°, 180°, 225°, 270°, and 315°. 15. The keying system of claim 2, wherein said receptacle receptacle further includes an opening in a rear wall thereof, and said projection further includes a shaft, said opening being adapted to receive said shaft. 16. The keying system of claim 15, wherein an adhesive is used to secure the shaft in the opening. 17. The keying system of claim 15, wherein said opening comprises a first geometric shape, and said shaft comprises a second geometric shape adapted to match said first geometric shape such that when received in said opening The shaft is prevented from rotating in the opening when the shaft is closed. 18. The keying system of claim 17, wherein said first and second geometries are regular thereby allowing insertion of said shaft into said opening at one of a plurality of predefined keying angles. 19. The keying system of claim 18, wherein said predefined angle is selected from the group consisting of 0°, 45°, 90°, 135°, 180°, 225°, 270°, and 315°. 20. The keying system of claim 18, wherein said first and second geometric shapes are selected from the group consisting of triangles, squares, hexagons, and octagons. 21. The keying system of claim 18, wherein said first and second geometric shapes consist of an equally spaced series of grooves and ridges. 22. The keying system of claim 21, wherein said first and second geometric shapes each comprise eight grooves and eight ridges. 23. The keying system of claim 2, wherein said connector plug further comprises a cutout and a module, said cavity formed in said module, and wherein said cutout is adapted to receive said module. 24. The keying system of claim 23, wherein said module is insertable into said cut body at one of a plurality of predefined angles. 25. The keying system of claim 23, wherein said cut body is square. 26. The keying system of claim 2, wherein said connector plug is an LC-type connector plug, and said receptacle receptacle is adapted to receive an LC-type connector plug. 27. The keying system of claim 2, wherein said connector plug is an SC-type connector plug, and said receptacle receptacle is adapted to receive an SC-type connector plug. 28. The keying system of claim 2, wherein said connector plug is a MU-type connector plug, and said receptacle receptacle is adapted to accept a MU-type connector plug. 29. The keying system of claim 2, wherein said connector plug is a FC type connector plug, and said receptacle receptacle is adapted to receive an FC type connector plug. 30. The keying system of claim 1 , wherein said optical fiber is retained within a ferrule, and said projection further includes an opening therein adapted to receive said projection when inserted into said cavity. Said ferrule. 31. The keying system of claim 30, wherein said collar is coaxial with said cavity and said opening is coaxial with said protrusion. 32. A receptacle for providing selective interconnection with a connector plug terminating a first optical fiber, said connector plug comprising a cavity comprising a concentric portion and a plurality of contacts formed in a forward end thereof A corresponding keyed portion of one of the predefined connector keyed geometries, the receptacle comprising: at least one receptacle receptacle including therein a raised body including a concentric portion and a keying portion corresponding to one of a plurality of predefined receptacle keying geometries, the connector keying geometry a shape corresponding to one of said predefined receptacle keying geometries; and Wherein the connector plug is insertable into the receptacle receptacle when the receptacle keying geometry corresponds to the connector keying geometry. 33. The receptacle of claim 32, wherein said concentric portion has a circular cross-section. 34. The receptacle of claim 32, wherein said keying portion includes at least one protrusion. 35. The receptacle of claim 34, wherein said protrusion comprises a chamfered outer surface. 36. The receptacle of claim 34, wherein said convex concentric portion further comprises an upper alignment portion. 37. The receptacle of claim 36, wherein the height of said protrusion is less than the height of said upper alignment portion. 38. The receptacle of claim 37, wherein the height of said protrusion is substantially half the height of said upper alignment portion. 39. The receptacle of claim 34, wherein said at least one protrusion is a ridge. 40. The receptacle of claim 32, wherein said male keying portion includes at least one indentation. 41. The receptacle of claim 40, wherein the depth of said at least one indentation is less than the height of said concentric portion. 42. The receptacle of claim 41, wherein the depth of said notch is substantially half the height of said concentric portion. 43. The receptacle of claim 40, wherein said at least one indentation is a notch. 44. The receptacle of claim 32, wherein said male keying portion includes at least one protrusion and at least one indentation. 45. The receptacle of claim 34, wherein said protrusion further comprises an upper alignment portion. 46. The receptacle of claim 32, wherein said keyed portions are arranged at a predefined angle about a center of said concentric portion. 47. The susceptor of claim 46, wherein the predefined angle is selected from the group consisting of 0°, 45°, 90°, 135°, 180°, 225°, 270°, and 315°. 48. The receptacle of claim 32, wherein said at least one receptacle receptacle further includes an opening in a rear wall thereof, and said projection further includes a shaft, said opening being adapted to receive said shaft. 49. The receptacle of claim 48, wherein an adhesive is used to secure the shaft in the opening. 50. The receptacle of claim 48, wherein said opening comprises a first geometric shape and said shaft comprises a second geometric shape adapted to match said first geometric shape such that when said opening is received in said opening preventing the shaft from rotating in the opening. 51. The receptacle of claim 50, wherein said first and second geometries are regular, thereby allowing said shaft to be inserted into said opening at one of a plurality of predefined keying angles. 52. The susceptor of claim 51, wherein said predefined angle is selected from the group consisting of 0°, 45°, 90°, 135°, 180°, 225°, 270°, and 315°. 53. The receptacle of claim 50, wherein said first and second geometric shapes are selected from the group consisting of triangular, square, hexagonal and octagonal. 54. The receptacle of claim 50, wherein said first and second geometric shapes consist of an equally spaced series of grooves and ridges. 55. The receptacle of claim 54, wherein said first and second geometric shapes each comprise eight (8) grooves and eight (8) ridges. 56. The receptacle of claim 32, wherein said optical fiber is retained within a ferrule, and said protrusion further includes an opening therein, said opening adapted to be inserted into said receptacle receptacle when said connector plug is inserted into said receptacle receptacle. Accept the ferrule. 57. The receptacle of claim 56, wherein said collar is coaxial with said lumen and said opening is coaxial with said protrusion. 58. The receptacle of claim 32, wherein said first optical fiber is retained within a ferrule, and said projection further includes an opening therein adapted to receive said ferrule. 59. The receptacle of claim 58, wherein said collar is coaxial with said lumen and said opening is coaxial with said protrusion. 60. The receptacle of claim 32, wherein said at least one receptacle receptacle is adapted to accept an LC-type connector plug. 61. The receptacle of claim 32, wherein said at least one receptacle receptacle is adapted to accept an SC-type connector plug. 62. The receptacle of claim 32, wherein said at least one receptacle receptacle is adapted to accept a MU-type connector plug. 63. The receptacle of claim 32, wherein said at least one receptacle receptacle is adapted to accept an FC type connector plug. 64. The receptacle of claim 32, wherein said at least one receptacle receptacle terminates a second optical fiber, and wherein said first optical fiber is connected to said second optical fiber when said connector plug is inserted into said receptacle receptacle. The two fibers achieve axial alignment. 65. The receptacle of claim 64, wherein the exposed end of the first optical fiber comes into contact with the exposed end of the second optical fiber when the connector plug is inserted into the receptacle receptacle. 66. The receptacle of claim 32, wherein said receptacle keying geometry enables insertion of a non-keyed connector plug into said receptacle receptacle. 67. A receptacle for providing selective interconnection with a connector plug terminating a first optical fiber, said connector plug comprising a raised body including a concentric portion and a front end formed in a forward end thereof The keying section corresponding to the predefined connector keying geometry, the receptacle includes: at least one receptacle receptacle comprising a cavity formed therein, the cavity including a concentric portion and a keying portion corresponding to one of a plurality of predefined receptacle keying geometries, the connector keying geometry corresponding to one of said predefined receiver keying geometries; and Wherein the connector plug is insertable into the receptacle receptacle when the receptacle keying geometry corresponds to the connector keying geometry. 68. A connector for terminating an optical fiber for providing selective interconnection with a receptacle receptacle comprising a raised protrusion comprising a concentric portion and a pre-set formed therein. Define the keying portion corresponding to the keying geometry of the receiver, said connector comprising: a connector plug adapted to be inserted into the receptacle receptacle and including a cavity including a concentric portion and a keying corresponding to one of a plurality of predefined connector keying geometries formed in a forward end thereof part, the receptacle keying geometry corresponds to one of the predefined connector keying geometries; and Wherein, the connector plug is insertable into the receptacle receptacle when the receptacle keying geometry corresponds to the connector keying geometry. 69. The connector of claim 68, wherein said concentric portion has a circular cross-section. 70. The connector of claim 68, wherein said keying portion includes at least one indentation. 71. The connector of claim 70, wherein said concentric portion further comprises an alignment portion. 72. The connector of claim 71, wherein the depth of the notch is less than the depth of the alignment portion. 73. The connector of claim 72, wherein the depth of the notch is substantially half the depth of the alignment portion. 74. The connector of claim 68, wherein said keying portion includes at least one protrusion. 75. The connector of claim 74, wherein said protrusion is chamfered. 76. The connector of claim 74, wherein said concentric portion further comprises an alignment portion. 77. The connector of claim 76, wherein the height of said protrusion is less than the depth of said alignment portion. 78. The connector of claim 77, wherein the height of said protrusion is substantially half the depth of said alignment portion. 79. The connector of claim 70, wherein said at least one indentation is a notch. 80. The connector of claim 74, wherein said at least one protrusion is a ridge. 81. The connector of claim 68, wherein said keying portion includes at least one protrusion and at least one indentation. 82. The connector of claim 68, wherein said keyed portions are arranged at a predefined angle about a center of said concentric portion. 83. The connector of claim 82, wherein the predefined angle is selected from the group consisting of 0°, 45°, 90°, 135°, 180°, 225°, 270°, and 315°. 84. The connector of claim 68, wherein said connector plug further comprises a cutout and a module, said cavity being formed in said module, and wherein said cutout is adapted to receive said module. 85. The connector of claim 84, wherein said module is insertable into said cut body at one of a plurality of predefined angles. 86. The connector of claim 84, wherein an adhesive is used to secure the module in the cutout. 87. The connector of claim 84, wherein said cut body is square. 88. The connector of claim 68, wherein said connector plug is an LC type connector plug. 89. The connector of claim 68, wherein said connector plug is an SC type connector plug. 90. The connector of claim 68, wherein said connector plug is a MU type connector plug. 91. The connector of claim 68, wherein said connector plug is an FC type connector plug. 92. The connector of claim 68, wherein said connector keying geometry enables insertion of said connector plug into a conventional receptacle receptacle. 93. A connector for terminating an optical fiber for providing selective interconnection with a receptacle receptacle, said receptacle receptacle comprising a cavity formed therein, said cavity comprising a concentric portion and corresponding to a predefined receptacle key A keyed portion of solid geometry, the connector includes: A connector plug adapted to be inserted into the receptacle receptacle and including a protrusion including a concentric portion and a corresponding one of a plurality of predefined connector keying geometries formed in a forward end thereof. a keying portion, the receptor keying geometry corresponding to one of the predefined connector keying geometries; and Wherein, the connector plug is insertable into the receptacle receptacle when the receptacle keying geometry corresponds to the connector keying geometry. 94. A system for providing selective interconnection between first and second optical fibers, the system comprising: receptacles comprising back-to-back receptacle receptacles each including a raised protrusion disposed therein and configured as one of a plurality of predefined receptacle keying geometries; a first connector plug terminating said first optical fiber, said plug adapted to be inserted into a first said back-to-back receptacle receptacle and comprising a cavity formed in a forward end of said plug configured to one of several predefined connector keying geometries; and a second connector plug terminating said second optical fiber, said plug adapted to be inserted into a second said back-to-back receptacle receptacle and comprising a cavity formed in a forward end of said plug configured to one of several predefined connector keying geometries; and wherein at least one of said predefined connector keying geometries matches at least one of said predefined receptacle keying geometries; and Wherein, when the receptacle keying geometry of the convex body of the first said back-to-back receptacle corresponds to the said connector keying geometry of said first connector plug, and the second said back-to-back receptacle When the receptacle keying geometry of the protrusion of the receptacle corresponds to the connector keying geometry of the second connector plug, the first connector plug is insertable into the first receptacle, and the The second connector plug can be inserted into the second receptacle to achieve axial alignment of the first optical fiber and the second optical fiber. 95. The system of claim 94, wherein the exposed end of the first optical fiber and the exposed end of the second optical fiber substantially come into contact when the connector plug is inserted into its corresponding receptacle. 96. The system of claim 94, wherein each of said connector plugs further includes a ferrule for stabilizing the end of a corresponding one of said optical fibers, and each of said protrusions further comprises a ferrule adapted to be inserted into said protrusion. An opening in which one of the ferrules is received upon entry into the cavity defines a passageway therebetween. 97. The system of claim 96, wherein each said ferrule is coaxial with its corresponding lumen, and said opening is coaxial with said protrusion. 98. The system of claim 95, wherein at least one of said exposed ends is movable within its corresponding connector plug in an insertion direction from a normal forward position, and wherein when said connector plug is inserted into them When in the corresponding receptacle, the exposed ends come into contact, thereby forcing the at least one movable exposed end away from the normal forward position while maintaining the exposed ends in contact. 99. The system of claim 98, wherein said movable exposed end is biased normal forward by a spring disposed coaxially with said optical fiber. 100. A receptacle for providing selective interconnection between first and second fiber optic cables, each cable comprising a connector plug comprising a forward end formed in a forward end thereof The cavity of the connector keying geometry, the receptacle includes: back-to-back receptacle receptacles, each said receptacle comprising a raised boss having a shape corresponding to one of a plurality of predefined receptacle keying geometries; wherein each of said connector keying geometries corresponds to one of said predefined receptacle keying geometries; and Wherein, when said receptacle keying geometry of said protrusion of said first said back-to-back receptacle receptacle corresponds to said connector keying geometry of said first cable, and when said second said receptacle receptacle When the receptacle keying geometry of the protrusions of the back-to-back receptacle receptacle corresponds to the connector keying geometry of the second cable, the connector of the first cable A plug is insertable in the first socket, and the connector plug of the second cable is insertable in the second socket, thereby interconnecting the first and second cables. 100. The receptacle of claim 100, wherein said fiber optic cables each include an optical fiber, and said receptacle further includes a passage between said first and second back-to-back receptacles and into which said optical fiber is inserted. 100. The receptacle of claim 100, wherein said receptacle keying geometry of said first and second back-to-back receptacles are the same. A field configurable receptacle for providing selective interconnection with a connector plug in a fiber optic communication system, the connector plug including a cavity including a concentric portion and a front end formed in the forward end thereof. a corresponding keying portion of a plurality of predefined connector keying geometries, the receptacle comprising: at least one receptacle receptacle adapted to receive said connector plug, said receptacle comprising a convex body comprising a concentric portion and a keyed portion comprising a user configurable shape compatible with a plurality of predefined receptacle a correspondence in the bonded geometry; wherein said connector keying geometry corresponds to one of said predefined receptacle keying geometries; and Wherein, the connector plug is insertable into the receptacle when the shape is configured to correspond to the connector keying geometry. 103. The field configurable receptacle of claim 103, wherein said connector plug includes a cavity, said connector keying geometry is formed in a forward end of said cavity, and said receptacle shape includes a raised bump, The protrusion is configured to produce one of the plurality of predefined receptacle keying geometries. 104. The field configurable receptacle of claim 104, wherein said receptacle further includes a shaft receiving opening, and said projection further includes a shaft adapted to be inserted into said opening. 105. The field configurable receptacle of claim 105, wherein said protrusion is configurable by rotating said shaft in said opening until said protrusion produces a particular one of said plurality of receptacle keying geometries . 106. The field configurable receptacle of claim 106, wherein rotation of said shaft in said opening is limited to a predetermined angle. 107. The field configurable receptacle of claim 107, wherein said shaft and said opening have shapes that correspond to regular geometric shapes, thereby limiting insertion of said shaft into said opening to one of a plurality of predetermined angles. 108. The field configurable receptacle of claim 108, wherein said shaft includes a regular series of grooves along its longitudinal axis, and said opening includes a grooved inner surface adapted to mate with said series of grooves. 110. The field configurable receptacle of claim 109, wherein said regular series of slots comprises eight slots. 111. The field configurable receptacle of claim 105, wherein upon selection of the selected one of the plurality of predefined receptacle keying geometries, an adhesive is used to secure the shaft in the opening. 112. A field configurable connector for providing selective interconnection with a receptacle in a fiber optic communication system, said receptacle comprising at least one receptacle receptacle comprising a concentric portion and forming A corresponding keyed portion of a plurality of predefined receptacle keyed geometries therein, the connector comprising: a connector plug adapted to be inserted into the receptacle receptacle, the plug including a concentric portion and a keying portion including a user selectable keying portion corresponding to one of a plurality of predefined connector keying geometries. configuration shape; wherein one of said predefined connector keying geometries corresponds to said receptacle keying geometry; and Wherein, the connector plug is insertable into the receptacle receptacle when the receptacle keying geometry corresponds to the connector keying geometry. 113. The field configurable connector of claim 112, wherein said receptacle receptacle further comprises a raised protrusion having a shape corresponding to said receptacle keying geometry, said connector plug comprising an interchangeable module, The interchangeable module includes a cavity with the connector keying geometry formed in a forward end of the cavity.

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