International Business Machines Corporation

Thomas B Kellerman

David B Howe

Clark F Baldwin

Palmer W Agnew

Anne S Kellerman

Douglas Kerr Ferguson

An electronic computer including microprocessor means, memory means and Input/Output (I/O) means wherein the I/O means comprises a retractable optical fiber connector assembly. The retractable optical fiber connector assembly includes a rotatable spool and a pair of optical fibers for being wound thereabout, these fibers in turn optically connected to optoelectronic means within the computer (as part of the I/O means). On the opposing ends of these optical fibers are desired connectors (e.g., those of the push-pull variety) for being connected to associated optical-type connectors which in turn may form part of various peripheral equipment (e.g., MODEMS, printers, etc.) or other computers to which this computer may be connected.

Computer with retractable optical fiber connector assembly having

An optoelectronic system including an optoelectronic assembly for receiving and/or transmitting optical data signals, optic means for being optically coupled to the optoelectronic assembly, and an optical fiber coupling device for coupling the optic means and at least one of the optoelectronic devices which form part of the assembly. The coupling device includes a housing for being positioned adjacent the assembly relative to the optoelectronic device and, significantly, latching means movably positioned within the housing for initially engaging the optoelectronic device and thereafter for engaging the incoming optic means (e.g., optical fiber connector) when the optic means is positioned within the coupling device's housing. Keying and shutter means are also provided as part of the coupling device.

Optical fiber coupling device and optoelectronic system utilizing same

An optical fiber duplex connector assembly wherein two individual optical fiber connectors are positioned and retained within a common housing, such that relative freedom of movement between the two connectors within the common housing facilitates positioning of the retained two connectors within a suitable receiving common housing (e.g., shroud). Such movement accomodates for manufacturing tolerances within the housing and/or connectors while still assuring successful insertion. A housing, having two chambers (one for each connector) and a cover assures the defined movable connector positioning while also providing effective retention. A boot may be attached to the housing to accomodate for severe bends and turns of the optical fiber cable, without loss of attenuation.

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Binghamton, NY, United States of America

Thomas B Kellerman