Multi-fiber optic connector with pivotally-aligned ferrule using dual spring force ensuring pressed-together contact faces

Abstract

A multi-fiber connector () that promotes physical contact with a communicating multi-fiber connector. The multi-fiber connector () has a connector body () with a front end () and a back end (). The multi-fiber connector () also includes a ferrule () with optical contacts () at a front end (). The ferrule () is spring biased toward the front end () of the connector body (). The ferrule () has a pair of alignment pin openings () extending into the ferrule from a front end (). The ferrule () also has a pair of alignment pins () mounted within the alignment pin openings (). The base ends of the alignment pins () have a different transverse cross-sectional shape than the alignment pin openings (). This difference in transverse cross-sectional shapes allows the alignment pins to pivot relative to the ferrule along a major axis of the ferrule.