Communication frame with cartridge

Abstract

A communication panel is configured to hold a plurality of cartridges via a tray element. The cartridge may be pre-mounted to the tray element prior to loading into the panel. Alternatively, the tray element may be loaded into the panel prior to mounting the cartridge on the tray element. Some types of tray elements route rear cables (e.g., input cables) of the cartridge to the front of the communication panel. Some types of cassettes route rear / input cables to the front of the panel. Some types of tray elements (i.e., trays) hold more than one cartridge. Other types of tray elements (i.e., cartridge managers) each hold only one cartridge. Some types of cassette managers define a cable routing path along a common side with the cassette. Other types of cartridge managers define a cable routing path along a side opposite the cartridge.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application was filed as a PCT international application on October 13, 2023, and claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 379,558 filed on October 14, 2022 and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 578,750 filed on August 25, 2023, the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. Background Art

[0003] In the telecommunications industry, the demand for increased capacity is growing rapidly. This demand is met in part by increasing the use and density of fiber optic transmission equipment. Even though fiber optic equipment allows for higher levels of transmission within the same or smaller footprint compared to traditional copper transmission equipment, this demand requires even higher fiber densities. This has led to the development of high-density fiber handling equipment.

[0004] In a communication panel system, port components (e.g., optical adapters, electrical jacks, hybrid port components, etc.) defining front ports are mounted to the panel, which is typically frame mounted or rack mounted. The front port is configured to receive a plug connector at the front of the panel. In some embodiments, the port components may be mounted to one or more trays that may be disposed within a chassis of the panel. The trays may be stationary within the chassis, or may slide in front of the chassis to enhance access to the port components. There are various issues with communication distribution systems including density, ease of use, and cable management. The field of fiber optic distribution needs to continue to improve. Summary of the invention

[0005] According to aspects of the present disclosure, one or more boxes may be installed at a communication frame. For example, one or more boxes may be removably installed in a chassis that is mounted to the communication frame. The communication frame may hold one or more such chassis. In some embodiments, the box is mounted to the chassis via one or more tray elements.

[0006] In some embodiments, when the box is mounted to the tray element, the tray element and the box move together as a unit referred to herein as a box unit. In some instances, the box unit may be mounted to a chassis. In other instances, the tray element may first be mounted to the chassis, and the box may be subsequently mounted to the tray element.

[0007] In some embodiments, the box unit is installed vertically in the chassis. In other embodiments, the box unit is installed horizontally in the chassis.

[0008] In some embodiments, the tray element comprises a tray configured to hold a plurality of boxes. In other embodiments, the tray element comprises a box manager configured to hold only a single box. In some instances, the box manager lays the cable(s) along the same surface on which the boxes are mounted. In other instances, the box manager lays the cable(s) along opposing surfaces.

[0009] In some instances, the box receives input cables and output cables at different ends of the box. However, the box unit (and therefore the chassis) is constructed for front access only. In some instances, both the input cables and output cables for the box (s) are routed to the front of the box unit.

[0010] In some embodiments, the communication panel includes a chassis that holds one or more trays. Each tray is configured to support one or more boxes that carry externally accessible ports (e.g., optical ports, electrical ports, or hybrid ports) to receive plug connectors. The boxes are slidably mounted to the trays along guides. Some types of boxes receive cables so that a connector for a first end of a terminated cable is disposed within the box, and a connector for an opposite second end of the terminated cable is disposed outside the box.

[0011] In some embodiments, the cable enters the box at a common side of the box with an externally accessible port. In some instances, the cable enters the box between adjacent port members. In some instances, the cable enters the box from the front of the box along the central longitudinal axis.

[0012] In some embodiments, a portion of the cable is configured to be released from the box. In some instances, the cable can be released through a tail sleeve or other strain relief member fixed to the box. In some instances, the cable is released from the box by pulling the external connectorized end of the cable.

[0013] In some instances, the box includes a storage area at the rear of the box. The middle portion of the cable is stowed at the storage area. When the cable is paid out, the middle portion of the cable is unwound or otherwise pulled out of the storage area. In some instances, the cable extends along the central longitudinal axis of the box between the storage area and the front of the box.

[0014] In some examples, the cable is anchored to the box at an anchor station so that a portion of the cable remains fixed relative to the box while another portion of the cable is released from the box. Pulling the connectorized end will only move the portion of the cable that extends between the anchor station and the connectorized end. The portion of the cable that extends between the anchor station and the internal port of the box remains unaffected by the load on the connectorized end.

[0015] Various additional inventive aspects will be described in the following description. Inventive aspects may relate to individual features as well as combinations of features. It should be understood that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are only exemplary and illustrative and do not limit the broad inventive concepts on which the embodiments disclosed herein are based. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] The accompanying drawings incorporated in and forming a part of the specification illustrate several aspects of the present disclosure.

[0017] A brief description of the accompanying drawings is as follows:

[0018] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary telecommunication frame holding a plurality of telecommunication panels, each telecommunication panel holding a plurality of cassettes mounted to a tray member;

[0019] Figure 2 is a perspective view of a first exemplary telecommunication panel including a tray element holding a plurality of cassettes and cable routing guides;

[0020] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 An exploded view of a communication panel, wherein only one box is shown for ease of viewing;

[0021] Figure 4 yes Figure 2 A top plan view of a communication panel, with only one box shown for ease of viewing;

[0022] Figure 5 is a front elevation view of an exemplary box suitable for use with any of the communications panels disclosed herein;

[0023] Figure 6 It is suitable for Figure 2 A perspective view of an exemplary cable guide member for use with a tray element of the embodiment of the present invention;

[0024] Figure 7 is a perspective view of a first exemplary box unit including a box mounted to another exemplary tray element, the first box unit being configured for cable routing;

[0025] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 An exploded view of the first box unit;

[0026] Fig. 9 yes Figure 7 a rear perspective view of a tray element;

[0027] Fig.10 Yes Figure 7 A perspective view of a second exemplary communication panel of a first box unit;

[0028] Fig.11 yes Fig.10 a top plan view of a second communication panel with the top removed to facilitate viewing of the first box unit;

[0029] Fig.12 is a perspective view of a second exemplary box unit including a box mounted to another exemplary tray element, the second box unit being configured for cable routing;

[0030] Fig.13 yes Fig.12 An exploded view of the second box unit;

[0031] Fig.14 is constructed to maintain Fig.12 a perspective view of a partially loaded third communication panel of a second box unit;

[0032] Fig.15 is fully loaded Fig.14 A perspective view of a third communication panel;

[0033] Fig.16 is a perspective view of an exemplary communications panel system including a chassis mounted to a rack, the chassis configured to hold a plurality of tray arrangements to which one or more cassettes may be mounted;

[0034] Fig.17 is constructed to be installed in Fig.16 A perspective view of an exemplary tray assembly within a chassis of the invention, the tray assembly comprising a tray carrying a plurality of guides;

[0035] Fig.18 Suitable for installation into Fig.16 A top perspective view of an exemplary box of a tray device;

[0036] Fig.19 yes Fig.18 A bottom perspective view of a box;

[0037] Fig. 20 yes Fig.18 A top plan view of the box with the cover removed to facilitate viewing of the interior;

[0038] Fig.21 Shows Fig.18 A box wherein the cover disassembles outwardly from the box to facilitate viewing of the interior;

[0039] Fig. 22 showing the components of the cartridge exploded from one another along a central longitudinal axis of the cartridge;

[0040] Fig.23 Is suitable for forming Fig.18 A perspective view of an exemplary box member of a box of;

[0041] Fig.24yes Fig.23 A perspective view of a latch of a cassette;

[0042] Fig.25 yes Fig.24 a side elevation view of the latch of the

[0043] Fig.26 yes Fig.24 Front elevation view of a latch. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0044] Reference will now be made in detail to the exemplary aspects of the present disclosure, which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numerals will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts.

[0045] Figure 1 An exemplary frame R configured to hold one or more communication panels 100 is shown. Each communication panel 100, 200, 300 is configured to hold one or more boxes 120. In certain embodiments, one or more of the boxes 120 are mounted to a tray element 115. In some examples, the tray element 115 is configured to hold a plurality of boxes 120. In some such examples, the tray element 115 extends across the width W of the panel 100. In other examples, the boxes 120 are each mounted to a corresponding tray element 115 that holds the boxes 120 within the communication panel 200, 300. In some such examples, a plurality of tray elements 115 are arranged in one or more rows across the width W of the panel 200, 300. In certain embodiments, each panel 100, 200, 300 may hold a plurality of tray elements 115 along the height H of the panel.

[0046] At each communication panel 100, 200, 300, one or more input cables IC are connected to two or more output cables OC so that data signals can be transmitted therebetween. The input cables IC and the output cables OC are connected together at the box 120. It should be understood that the terms "input" and "output" are used for convenience and do not limit the direction of travel of the optical signal. Both types of cables can transmit bidirectional data signals. In some embodiments, the tray element 115 provides cable management for the input cables IC and / or output cables OC routed to the box 120. As will be described in more detail herein, for example, the tray element 115 can route the input cables IC from the rear of the box 120 toward the front of the panel 100, 200, 300. It should be understood that for ease of viewing, only portions of the input cables IC and the output cables OC are shown throughout the accompanying drawings.

[0047] In certain embodiments, each box 120 extends along a depth D2 between the front portion 122 and the rear portion 124 (see, e.g., Figure 6). Each box 120 is configured to receive one or more output cables OC or the connectorized ends of one or more output cables OC at the front end 122. For example, each box 120 can carry one or more front port components 126 (e.g., optical adapters, electrical sockets, hybrid ports, etc.) at the front 122 of the box 120 to receive the connectorized ends of the output cables OC. In some embodiments, each box 120 is configured to receive one or more input cables IC or the connectorized ends of one or more input cables IC at the rear 124 of the box 124. For example, some exemplary boxes 120 carry one or more rear port components 128 (e.g., optical adapters, electrical sockets, hybrid ports, etc.) at the rear 124 of the box 120 to receive the connectorized ends CE of the input cables IC. Other exemplary boxes 120 define a cable port at the rear 124, through which the input cable IC can enter the body of the box 120. In some such instances, one or more connectorized ends of the input cable IC are inserted into the rear port of the front port component 126. In other such examples, the unterminated end of the input cable IC can be spliced, separated, or otherwise coupled to a connectorized pigtail within the cassette 120 to connect the input cable IC to the rear port of the front port member 126. Examples of suitable cassettes are disclosed in U.S. Publication No. 2022 / 0260799 [Attorney Docket No. 02316.8221USU1], the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

[0048] In certain embodiments, the cassette 120 is mounted at the panel 100, 200, 300 by mounting the cassette 120 to the tray element 115. In some embodiments, the cassette 120 is mounted to the panel 100, 200, 300 as a unit with the corresponding tray element 115. In other embodiments, the tray element 115 may be mounted at the panel 100, 200, 300, and then the cassette 120 may be mounted to the tray element 115. In certain embodiments, each tray element 115 includes a plurality of spaced apart guides 118 at which the cassette 120 may be releasably mounted.

[0049] In some embodiments, the communication panel 100, 200, 300 enables front access to both the input cables IC and the output cables OC. For example, the input cables IC and the output cables OC enter and exit the communication panel 100 from the front 102, 202, 302 of the communication panel 100, 200, 300, respectively. Therefore, the communication panel 100, 200, 300 is configured to route the input cables IC from the rear 124 of each box 120 to the front 102, 202, 302 of the panel 100, 200, 300.

[0050] In some embodiments, input cables IC are routed to the communications panel 100, 200, 300 from one side 106, 206, 306, 108, 208, 308 of the panel 100, 200, 300, while output cables OC are routed out of the communications panel 100, 200, 300 from the opposite side 108, 208, 308, 106, 206, 306 of the panel 100, 200, 300. In some embodiments, the cassette 120 or the tray element 115 to which the cassette 120 is mounted (e.g., the tray 116, the cassette manager 230, 330, etc.) is releasably locked within the chassis 100, 200, 300 in the retracted position. In some embodiments, the cassette 120 and the tray element 115 are not lockable relative to the chassis 100, 200, 300 in the extended position. In some examples, the cassette 120 is mounted on the tray element 115, which is then mounted as a unit within the chassis 100, 200, 300. However, in other examples, the tray element 115 may be pre-installed within the panel 100, and the cassette 120 may be subsequently mounted thereto.

[0051] Figure 2-6 An exemplary embodiment of a communication panel 100 is shown in which the boxes 120 are mounted to one or more trays 116, each of which is mounted within a chassis 110. In some embodiments, the chassis 110 includes side walls 111b extending forward from a rear wall 111a (see Figure 3 ) to define an interior. In some embodiments, the bottom wall 111c also extends forward from the rear wall 111a and extends between the side walls 111b. In some embodiments, the tray guides 112 can be mounted to the side walls 111b. Each tray guide 112 defines one or more slots 114 along which the tray element 115 can be mounted to the chassis 110.

[0052] In some embodiments, the tray element 115 includes a tray 116 that spans the width W of the panel 100. In some examples, multiple trays 116 can be mounted within a common chassis 110. Figure 2 In the example shown in FIG. 1 , four trays 116 are installed in the chassis 110. In other examples, a greater or lesser number of trays 116 (e.g., one tray, two trays, three trays, six trays, etc.) can be assembled in the chassis 110. In some examples, the chassis 110 has a height of 1 rack unit (RU) space. In other examples, the chassis 110 can be taller (e.g., two RUs, four RUs, etc.).

[0053] Each tray 116 is configured to hold one or more boxes 120 of various sizes (e.g., as discussed in U.S. Publication No. 2022 / 0260799 incorporated above). In some embodiments, each tray 116 carries one or more box guides 118, and the box 120 is fixed to the tray 116 at the box guide. In some instances, the box guides 118 extend in parallel along the front-rear axis FR1 of the panel 100. The box guides 118 are spaced apart from each other along the width W1 of the panel 100. Each box guide 118 defines a stop region, and the stop region includes a capture surface, and the capture surface is configured to engage a corresponding stop feature on the box 120 to keep the box 120 at a fixed position at the stop region of the box guide 118. An exemplary box guide 118 is disclosed in U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 496,183 filed on April 14, 2023 [having Attorney Docket No. 02316.8758USP1], the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0054] like Figure 5 , each cassette 120 includes two or more tracks 125 that engage the capture surface(s) of a corresponding one of the cassette guides 118. In some embodiments, at least one of the tracks 125 is disposed within a corresponding bottom channel 127 defined along the cassette 120. In the example shown, two tracks 125 are disposed within corresponding bottom channels 127. In some embodiments, one of the tracks 125 extends outwardly from one side of the cassette 120. In some embodiments, no track extends from the opposite side of the cassette 120.

[0055] exist Figure 2 In the example shown in FIG. 1 , each tray 116 is configured to hold a sufficient number of cassettes 120 relative to sufficient front port members 1126 to make at least 48 fiber optic connections (e.g., 48 LC ports, 96 SN ports, 24 MPO ports, etc.). In the example shown, the cassettes 120 include sufficient front port members 126 to make sixteen fiber optic connections at the cassettes 120. Figure 4 The trays 116 shown in are sized to hold three such boxes 120. However, in other examples, each tray 116 is configured to hold a greater or lesser number of boxes 120 and / or sufficient port members to make a greater or lesser number of connections (e.g., 24 fiber connections, 36 fiber connections, etc.). In some examples, the frame R is a rack of at least 19 inches. In some examples, the frame R is larger than a 19 inch rack. For example, the frame R can be a 23 inch rack.

[0056] According to aspects of the present disclosure, both the input cables IC and the output cables OC are accessible at the front of the panel 100. In some examples, the input cables IC are routed to the panel 100 from a first side 106 of the panel 100, and the output cables OC are routed away from the panel 100 from a second side 108 of the panel 100 (see, for example, FIG. Figure 2 In some embodiments, one or more cable routing guides 130 are carried by the tray 116 to guide the input cables IC from the rear 124 of the box 120 at the rear 104 of the panel 100 toward the front 102 of the panel 100. In some examples, the cable routing guides 130 route the cables through the front 122 of the box 120.

[0057] In some embodiments, the tray 116 carries a first cable routing guide 130 at a first side of the tray 116 and a second cable routing guide 130 at a second side of the tray 116. In some instances, the first cable routing guide and the second cable routing guide 130 are mirror images of each other. In some instances, each cable routing guide 130 defines a path 134 extending between an entrance 131 at a rear portion of the tray 116 and an exit 133 at a front portion of the tray 116. In some instances, each cable routing guide 130 includes a bend radius limiter 132 disposed along the path 134. In the example shown, the bend radius limiter 132 is disposed toward the entrance 131.

[0058] In some embodiments, the cable routing guide 130 includes a protruding guide member 136 at the front. In some examples, the protruding guide member 136 extends toward the front of the tray 116 (see, for example, FIG. Figure 2 ). In some examples, the protruding guide member 136 extends forward of the panel 100. The protruding guide member 136 defines a cable passage extending parallel to the width W1 of the panel 100. In some embodiments, the protruding guide member 136 defines a bend radius limiter 138 facing into the cable passage to inhibit excessive bending of the cables IC, OC routed through the protruding guide member 136.

[0059] Figure 7-11 12-15 show other exemplary embodiments of the communication panels 200, 300, wherein the boxes 120 are mounted to corresponding box managers 230, 330, each of which is mounted within the chassis 210, 310. In some examples, each box 120 is mounted to its own unique box manager 230, 330 (see, for example, Figure 7 and 12). However, in other examples, one cartridge manager 230, 330 may hold two or more cartridges 120. The cartridges 120 may be releasably locked (e.g., latched) to the corresponding cartridge managers 230, 330 so that the cartridges 120 and cartridge managers 230, 330 may be moved together as a unit 220, 320 (e.g., see Figure 7 and Fig.12 ).

[0060] refer to Figure 7-11 , the box manager 230 includes a body 222 having a first side 224 and an opposing second side 226. The box manager 232 also includes a front handle 232 by which the box manager 230 (or the box manager 230 with the box 120 installed) can be manipulated (e.g., pulled and / or pushed). The box 120 is configured to be mounted to the first side 224, and the input cable IC of the box 120 is configured to be routed to the front of the box 120 along the second side 226 of the box manager 230. A cable guide path 228 is defined at the second side 226 of the box manager 230.

[0061] One or more cartridge guides 118 are disposed at the first side 224 of the cartridge manager 230. In some examples, the cartridge guides 118 extend parallel to the front-to-back axis FR2 of the panel 200 (e.g., Fig.10 ). The cassette guides 118 are spaced apart from one another along the width W2 of the panel 200. Each cassette guide 118 defines a stop region that includes a capture surface configured to engage a corresponding stop feature on the cassette 120 to hold the cassette 120 in a fixed position at the stop region of the cassette guide 118. Exemplary cassette guides 118 are disclosed in U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 496,183, incorporated by reference above.

[0062] In some embodiments, a bend radius limiter 236 is disposed at the rear of the box manager 230 to enable the input cable IC to be routed from the rear of the box 120 to the cable guide path 228. In some embodiments, the bend radius limiter 236 is disposed at a rear extension 234 of the box manager 230 that is aligned with the rear port member 128 or rear cable port of the box 120 when the box 120 is mounted to the box manager 230. In some examples, the rear extension 234 helps support the rear connector of the input cable IC inserted into the rear port member 128 and / or the rear connector of the input cable IC extending out of the rear cable port.

[0063] like Fig. 9As shown in FIG. 1 , one or more bend radius limiters 238 are also disposed at the second side 224 of the box manager 230 to define a cable guide path 228. In some embodiments, two opposing bend radius limiters 238 define the cable guide path 228 therebetween. In some embodiments, the cable guide path 228 is aligned with one side of the bend radius limiter 236 to guide the input cable IC from the bend radius limiter 236 into the cable guide path 228. In some embodiments, the other side of the bend radius limiter 236 is aligned with the rear port member 128 or rear cable port of the box 120 (e.g., see FIG. 1 ). Figure 7 ).

[0064] like Fig.10 As shown in , a box manager 230 and two or more box units 220 of a box 120 can be arranged at a chassis 210 to form a communication panel 200. In the example shown, the box unit 220 is mounted in a horizontal orientation within the chassis 210. In some examples, the box 120 and the box manager 230 are mounted at the chassis 210 as a unit 220. In other examples, the box manager 230 can be first mounted to the chassis 210, and the box 120 can be subsequently mounted to the box manager 230. In some embodiments, the box units 220 are arranged in two or more rows. In some embodiments, a plurality of box units 220 can be arranged in each row. In some embodiments, the box units 220 form alternating rows of front port members 126 and cable guide paths 228 (see, for example, FIG. 20 ). Fig.10 ).

[0065] In some embodiments, the chassis 210 includes one or more trays to which the box units 220 can be mounted. In other embodiments, the chassis 210 may include an intermediate wall to which the box units 220 can be mounted. In certain embodiments, the boxes 120 are fixed to the box manager 230, and the box manager 230 is fixed to the tray or the intermediate wall. In certain embodiments, the box units 220 (e.g., the box manager 230) are fixed to the chassis 210 in a fixed position. In certain embodiments, the box units 220 (e.g., the box manager 230) are only fixable to the chassis 210 in one fixed position. In various examples, the box units 220 (e.g., the box manager 230) are latched to the chassis 210.

[0066] In some embodiments, one or more protruding guide members 240 extend toward the front of the chassis 210. In the example shown, the protruding guide members 240 are disposed at opposite sides of the chassis 210. An input cable IC extending out of the cable guide path 228 may be routed toward one of the protruding guide members 240 at the front of the panel 200, while an output cable OC received at the front port member 126 may be routed toward another of the protruding guide members 240 at the front of the panel 200.

[0067] refer to Figure 12-15 , the cartridge manager 330 includes a body 322 having a first side 324 and an opposing second side 326. In some instances, the cartridge manager 330 also includes a front handle by which the cartridge manager 330 (or the cartridge manager 330 with the cartridge 120 installed) can be manipulated (e.g., pulled and / or pushed). In some instances, the cartridge 120 is configured to be mounted to the first side 324 of the cartridge manager 330. In some instances, the input cables IC of the cartridge 120 are also configured to be routed along a cable guide path 328 defined at the first side 324 of the cartridge manager 330. In some instances, the cable guide path 328 extends from an inlet 331 at the rear of the cartridge manager 330 and an outlet 333 at the front of the cartridge manager 330.

[0068] One or more cartridge guides 118 are disposed at the first side 324 of the cartridge manager 330. In some examples, the cartridge guides 118 extend parallel to the front-to-back axis FR3 of the panel 300 (e.g., Fig.15 ). The cassette guides 118 are spaced apart from one another along the width W3 of the panel 300. Each cassette guide 118 defines a stop region that includes a capture surface configured to engage a corresponding stop feature on the cassette 120 to hold the cassette 120 in a fixed position at the stop region of the cassette guide 118. Exemplary cassette guides 118 are disclosed in U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 496,183, incorporated by reference above.

[0069] In some embodiments, a bend radius limiter 336 is disposed at the rear of the box manager 330 to enable the input cable IC to be routed from the rear of the box 120 to the cable guide path 328. In some embodiments, the bend radius limiter 336 is disposed within the footprint of the box manager 330. In some embodiments, the bend radius limiter 336 is located on the first side 324 of the box manager 330 or extends upward from the first side of the box manager. In an example, the bend radius limiter 336 is integrally formed with the body 322 of the box manager 330. In some examples, when the box 120 is mounted to the box manager 330, one side of the bend radius limiter 336 is aligned with the rear port member 128 or rear cable port of the box 120. In some examples, the opposite side of the bend radius limiter 336 defines and / or limits the cable guide path 328.

[0070] like Fig.14 and 15As shown in , two or more box units 320 can be arranged at the chassis 310 to form the communication panel 300. In some embodiments, the box unit 320 can be installed in the chassis 310 in a vertical orientation. In some examples, the box 120 and the box manager 330 are installed at the chassis 310 as a unit 320. In other examples, the box manager 330 can be installed to the chassis 310 first, and the box 120 can be installed to the box manager 330 later. In some embodiments, the box unit 320 is arranged in a row. In some examples, the box unit 320 can be arranged in multiple rows.

[0071] In some embodiments, the box unit 320 is configured to latch or otherwise secure to the chassis 310. In some examples, the box unit 320 or the box manager 330 is slidably mounted to the chassis 310. In some embodiments, the box 120 is secured to the box manager 330, and the box manager 330 is secured to the top wall or the bottom wall of the chassis 310. In some embodiments, the box unit 320 (e.g., the box manager 330) is secured to the chassis 310 in a fixed position. In some embodiments, the box unit 320 (e.g., the box manager 330) is only securable to the chassis 310 in one fixed position.

[0072] In some embodiments, one or more protruding guide members 340 extend toward the front of the chassis 310. In the example shown, the protruding guide members 340 are disposed at opposite sides of the chassis 310. The input cables IC extending out of the outlet 333 of the cable guide path 328 can be arranged in front of the panel 300 toward one side of the panel 300, while the output cables OC received at the front port member 126 can be arranged in front of the panel 300 toward the other side of the panel 300. In some embodiments, the box unit 320 forms alternating rows of cable guide path outlets 333 and front port members 126 (see, for example, FIG. 1 ). Fig.15 In some such embodiments, the protruding guide members 340 each define a first cable path 340a aligned with a row of cable guide path outlets 333 and a second cable path 340b aligned with the front port member 126 of the cassette 120 .

[0073] Reference now Figure 16-26, another exemplary communication panel 400 includes a chassis 405 that holds one or more tray elements 115. The chassis 405 is configured to be mounted to a rack R. Each tray element 115 is a tray that spans the width W of the chassis 405. In some embodiments, the tray element 115 is stationary within the chassis 405. In other embodiments, the tray element 115 can slide between two or more positions along the depth D of the chassis 405. Each tray element 115 is configured to support one or more boxes 120, and the one or more boxes carry ports (e.g., optical ports, electrical ports, hybrid ports, etc.) configured to receive plug connectors. In the example shown, the tray element 115 is a tray configured to receive a plurality of boxes 120. The tray element 115 filled with one or more boxes 120 is referred to as a communication device 408 in this article.

[0074] As will be discussed in more detail herein, the box 120 carries one or more port members 510, each of which defines one or more externally accessible ports (i.e., front ports) at the front of the box 120. The external ports are configured to receive plug connectors. In some embodiments, the external ports are optical ports configured to receive optical plug connectors. In other embodiments, the external ports can be electrical ports configured to receive electrical plug connectors, hybrid ports configured to receive hybrid plug connectors, or a combination of optical, electrical, and / or hybrid. In some embodiments, the box 120 carries a single fiber external port (e.g., an LC front port). In other embodiments, the box 120 carries a multi-fiber external port (e.g., an MPO front port, an SN front port, etc. provided by Senko). In still other embodiments, the same box 120 may carry a combination of two or more types of external ports (e.g., a combination of MPO and LC ports).

[0075] In some embodiments, the box 120 carries a cable 550 (e.g., a fiber optic cable, an electrical cable, a hybrid cable, etc.) that acts as an input cable IC. The cable 550 transmits signals between the external port 510 and the connectorized end 552. In some examples, the cable 550 extends between the connectorized end 552 at a first end of the cable 550 and one or more connectorized ends 554 at an opposite second end of the cable 550. The connectorized end (s) 554 are received at a port member 510 that communicates with the external port (e.g., at an internal / rear port of the port member 510). In other examples, the cable 550 extends to one or more unconnectorized second ends (e.g., unterminated wires mounted to insulation displacement contacts of the port member 510) that are coupled to the port member 510.

[0076] The connectorized end 552 of the cable 550 is accessible from the exterior of the cassette 120. In some embodiments, when the cassette 120 is mounted at the tray element 115, the connectorized end 552 is accessible from the front of the tray element 115. In some examples, the cable 550 extends outward through the front of the cassette 120 through the exterior port of the port member 510, such that the connectorized end 552 is disposed at the front of the cassette 120.

[0077] In some embodiments, the strain relief member 560 is mounted at the front of the box 120. The strain relief member 560 is configured to be axially stationary relative to the box 120. The strain relief member 560 is configured to flex or deform along the width and / or height of the box 120 as the cable 550 extends outward through the front of the box 120 to provide strain relief to the cable 550. In some examples, the strain relief member 560 tapers radially inward as the strain relief member 560 extends away from the box 120. In some embodiments, the cable 550 can slide axially through the strain relief member 560 relative to the box 120.

[0078] In some embodiments, the connectorized end 552 of the cable 550 further includes a strain relief member 558. The strain relief member provides strain relief to the cable 550 at the termination end 552. In some examples, the strain relief member 558 faces the strain relief member 560 in an opposite orientation. In some embodiments, the strain relief member 558 tapers radially inward as the strain relief member 558 extends away from the connectorized end 552 and toward the box 120. In some embodiments, the length of the cable 550 between the strain relief members 558, 560 increases as the cable 550 is paid out from the box 120.

[0079] In some embodiments, the cable 550 includes an intermediate section 550b that is retracted within the box 120 (see, e.g., Fig.18 ). In some embodiments, at least a portion of the cable 550 (e.g., at least some of the middle section 550b) can be released from the interior of the box 120 to increase the amount of cable 550 disposed outside the box 120. In some instances, the middle section 550b is stowed at the rear of the box 120 before being released from the box 120. In some instances, the middle section 550b is freely wound in a storage area of ​​the box 120. In other instances, the middle section 550b is guided by the cable guide member in a looped configuration or a figure-8 configuration.

[0080] In some embodiments, the cassettes 120 are slidably mounted to the tray member 115 along guides 450. In some examples, each cassette 120 can slide independently relative to the other cassettes 120. Fig.17In the example shown in , the tray element 115 includes a main area 412, which extends along the front-to-back axis FR between the front end 414 and the rear end 416 of the main area 412. The main area 412 also extends along the lateral axis LA between the opposite first end 418 and the second end 420 of the main area 412. The main area 412 of the tray element 115 carries guides 450. Each guide 450 extends parallel to the front-to-back axis FR. The guides 450 are spaced apart from each other along the lateral axis LA. In some embodiments, the guides 450 are configured to receive a plurality of boxes 120 slidingly along the guides 450 from the front end 414 of the main area 412 or from the rear end 416 of the main area 412 at the discretion of the user.

[0081] In certain embodiments, the tray element 115 defines a finger access aperture 415. In some examples, the finger access aperture 415 is defined through the main area 412 of the tray element 115. In other examples, the finger access aperture 415 is defined between the front of the main area 412 and a management track disposed in front of the main area 412. In certain embodiments, the cable 550 extends between the box 120 and the connectorized end 552 through the finger access aperture 415.

[0082] In certain embodiments, each cassette 120 defines one or more bottom channels 512 along which the corresponding guide 450 slides when the cassette 120 is slid onto the tray element 115 (see, e.g., Fig.19 ). In some embodiments, each box 120 includes a guide rail 514 that slides along a corresponding one of the guides 450 when the box 120 is slid onto the tray element 115. In some embodiments, each box 120 includes a stop member 516 that engages a portion of the corresponding guide 450 to lock the box 120 in place on the tray element 115. In some embodiments, each box 120 includes a release member 518 that is configured to disengage the stop member 516 from the guide 450. For example, the release member 518 may include a pull rod that is configured to move along the front-to-back axis to transition the stop member between the locked position and the released position. Other details of exemplary stop members 516, release members 518, and guides 450 suitable for use with the box 120 and the tray element 115 are disclosed in WO 5022 / 478310, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0083] Figure 18-21An exemplary box 120 suitable for use with the communication panel 400 disclosed above is shown. The box 120 extends along a length L between a front 502 and a rear 504, along a width W between opposing first and second sides 506, 508, and along a height H between a top and a bottom. The box 120 includes a front port 510 at the front 502 of the box 120. A first portion 550a of the cable 550 extends forward of the front 502 of the box 120. A second portion 550b of the cable 550 is retracted toward the rear 504 of the box 120. A third portion 550c of the cable 550 is received at an interior port of the port member 510 (e.g., see Fig. 20 ).

[0084] In some embodiments, the box 120 defines a first area 520 and a second area 522. In some instances, the first area 520 defines the front 502 of the box 120, and the second area 522 is disposed behind the first area 520. In some instances, the second area 522 defines the rear 504 of the box 120, and the first area 520 is disposed in front of the second area 522. In some instances, the first area 520 is closed. In some instances, the second area 522 is open at the top to provide access to the interior of the second area 522. In some instances, most of the excess length 520b of the cable 550 is stowed in the second area 522.

[0085] In some embodiments, a cable anchoring station 524 is disposed within the box 120 to axially secure a portion of the cable 550 relative to the box 120. The cable anchoring station 524 inhibits the second end 554 of the cable 550 from being pulled out of the internal port or otherwise separated from the port member 510. In some embodiments, the cable anchoring station 524 is disposed at the second region 522 of the box 120. In other embodiments, the cable anchoring station 524 can be disposed within the first region 520 of the box 120. In some instances, the cable anchoring station 524 is disposed at a location where the first region 520 and the second region 522 meet. In some embodiments, the cable anchoring station 524 provides a mount for a cable tie or other wrap-around cable fastener. In other embodiments, the cable anchoring station 524 is configured to clamp or otherwise grip the cable 550.

[0086] The cable 550 includes one or more media segments disposed in a sheath, such as a cable sleeve, a tube, a mesh sleeve, etc. As used herein, a media segment refers to an optical fiber, an electric wire, etc. that transmits signals and / or power. For example, an optical fiber and an electric wire are each an example of a media segment. In some instances, each of the media segments of the cable 550 is terminated at a connector (e.g., a plug connector, a female connector, etc.) defining a connectorized end 552. In some instances, the media segments of the cable 550 are broken (e.g., transitioned out of the sheath and separated from each other) between the first end 552 and the second end 554 of the cable 550. For example, each media segment of the cable 550 can be terminated separately by a connector (e.g., a plug connector, a female connector, etc.), which can be received at the port member 510. In some instances, the media segment is broken at the fan-out device. In some instances, the fan-out device is installed in the first region 520 of the box 120. In other instances, the fan-out device is installed in the second region 522 of the box 120. In still other examples, the media segments are separated without a fan-out device.

[0087] In certain embodiments, the first region 520 of the cassette 120 includes one or more media segment managers 526. In certain instances, the media segment managers 526 include a spool or a bend radius limiter. In certain instances, the media segment managers 526 define a guide channel where the media segments are collected and guided. Exemplary media segment managers 526 suitable for use with the cassette 120 are disclosed in U.S. Publication No. 5022-0560799, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0088] In some embodiments, the second region 522 of the box 120 includes one or more guides 528 that guide the second portion 550b of the cable 550 in a stowed arrangement (e.g., a coil, a figure-8 layout, etc.). In some instances, the one or more guides 528 define a contoured surface along which the cable 550 (e.g., the second portion 550b of the cable 550) extends. In some instances, the guide 528 has a convex contoured surface around which the cable 550 can be wrapped. In other instances, the guide 528 has a concave contoured surface within which the cable 550 can be contained (e.g., see Fig. 20 and Fig.21 ). One or more tabs 529 may extend outwardly or inwardly from the guide 528 to help retain the cable 550 within the box 120.

[0089] In some embodiments, when the cable 550 extends from the second region 522 to the front portion 502 of the box 120, the cable 550 extends along the central longitudinal axis C of the box 120 (see, e.g., Fig. 20 ). In some examples, the cable 550 extends along the first region 520 in alignment with the bottom channel 512, but extends outside the bottom channel 512. For example, the bottom plate of the box 120 is disposed between the cable 550 and the bottom channel 512.

[0090] In some embodiments, the first region 520 of the cartridge 120 is defined by a first cartridge 530, and the second region 522 of the cartridge 120 is defined by a second cartridge 532 removably connected to the first cartridge 530. In some embodiments, a strain relief member 560 is mounted to a front portion of the first cartridge 530. In some embodiments, the port member 510 is mounted to the first cartridge 530. In some examples, the strain relief member 560 is mounted at a gap G between adjacent port members 510.

[0091] In some embodiments, the first case 530 defines a central passage P extending along the longitudinal axis C of the case 120. In some examples, the first case 530 includes a guide member 538 that defines the passage P. In the example shown, the first case 530 includes a first guide member 538a and a second guide member 538b that are spaced apart along the depth of the first case 530 and aligned with each other along the central longitudinal axis C. In some embodiments, the guide member 538 is aligned with the aperture 537 defined by the second case 532 to enable the cable 550 to transition between the first case 530 and the second case 532.

[0092] In some embodiments, the first case 530 and the second case 532 define an open top through which the interior of the cases 530, 532 is accessible. In some embodiments, a cover 535 is mounted to the first case 530 to prevent access to the interior of the first case 530. The cover 535 protects the exposed media segment that is broken from the jacket of the cable 550. In some embodiments, the second case 532 remains open during use so that at least a portion of the stowed portion 550b of the cable 550 is exposed through the open top of the second case 532 (see, for example, FIG. 2 ). Fig.16 ).

[0093] In some embodiments, the first case 530 and the second case 532 are moved toward each other along the insertion axis I. In some examples, the first case 530 and the second case 532 are coupled together by inserting one or more protrusions 536 of one of the first case 530 and the second case 532 into one or more apertures 534 defined by the other of the first case 530 and the second case 532. In the example shown, the second case 532 includes (a plurality of) protrusions 536, and the first case 530 defines (a plurality of) apertures 534. In some embodiments, (a plurality of) apertures 534 are disposed at the rear of the first case 530, and (a plurality of) protrusions 536 are disposed at the front of the second case 532. In some embodiments, the first case 530 defines a plurality of apertures 534, and the second case 532 includes a plurality of protrusions 536.

[0094] In some embodiments, the first cassette 530 and the second cassette 532 are latched together. For example, the protrusion (s) 536 of one of the cassettes 530, 532 may include a deflectable tab 541 that carries or defines the latch 540. In some examples, the deflectable tab 541 deflects or pivots along the flexure axis F to move the latch 540 between the latched position and the released position. In some embodiments, the latch 540 engages the capture surface 542 when in the latched position and does not engage the capture surface 542 when in the released position. In some examples, the flexure axis F extends parallel to the insertion axis I.

[0095] In some embodiments, one or more of the latches 540 include an inclined surface 545 leading to a stop surface 543. In some instances, the stop surface 543 faces the cassette 530, 532 carrying the latch 540, and the inclined surface 545 faces the other of the cassettes 530, 532. In some embodiments, the inclined surface 545 is a first inclined surface, and one or more of the latches 540 further include a second inclined surface 547 that faces a different direction than the first inclined surface 545. In some instances, the second inclined surface 547 is angled between 90 and 480 degrees relative to the first inclined surface 545. In some instances, the second inclined surface 547 is angled between 425 and 445 degrees relative to the first inclined surface. In some instances, the first inclined surface 545 partially faces the front of the cassette 120 and partially faces outwardly toward one of the sides 506, 508 of the cassette 120. In some examples, the second inclined surface 547 partially faces outwardly toward one of the sides 506 , 508 of the box 120 and partially faces toward the bottom of the box 120 .

[0096] In some embodiments, the inclined surfaces 545, 547 have surface areas of irregular shapes. In some instances, the first inclined surface 545 is a quadrilateral shape, and the second inclined surface 547 is a triangular shape. In some instances, the transition surface 546 is disposed between the first inclined surface 545 and the second inclined surface 547. In some instances, the transition surface 546 extends at a non-zero angle relative to the flexure axis F. In some instances, the transition surface 546 extends at a non-zero angle relative to the stop surface 543. In some instances, the second transition surface 548 is disposed between the first inclined surface 545 and the stop surface 543. In some instances, the second transition surface 548 extends parallel to the flexure axis F. In some instances, the second transition surface 548 extends orthogonal to the stop surface 543.

[0097] Public Aspects

[0098] Aspect 1. A box for use in a communication panel, the box comprising: a box body, the box body extending along a depth between a front and a rear, along a width between opposite first and second sides, and along a height between a top and a bottom, the width being perpendicular to the depth, and the height being perpendicular to both the depth and the width; a row of port members, the row of port members being carried at the front of the body, each port member defining a front port configured to receive a plug connector, the front port being accessible from the front of the body; and a cable, the cable extending from the interior of the box body to the exterior of the box body at a position between the port members along the row, the cable being movable relative to the box body so as to enable the cable to be released from the box body.

[0099] Aspect 2. A box according to aspect 1, wherein the cable extends between opposite first and second ends, the first end of the cable is located outside the box body, the second end of the cable is located inside the box body, and the cable has a bent portion stored inside the box body.

[0100] Aspect 3. The box according to aspect 2, wherein the second end of the cable is connected to the port member of the row.

[0101] Aspect 4. The box according to aspect 3, wherein each port member defines a rear port that receives a detachable connection interface member that terminates a portion of the second end of the cable.

[0102] Aspect 5. The box according to any one of aspects 1 to 4, wherein the first end of the cable is terminated at a detachable connection interface member, and the detachable connection interface member is tethered to the box body via the cable.

[0103] Aspect 6. The box according to any one of Aspects 1-4 further includes a strain relief member installed at the front of the box body to be axially stationary relative to the box body, and when the cable transitions between the inside of the box body and the outside of the box body, the cable passes through the strain relief member, and the cable can slide axially relative to the strain relief member and relative to the box body.

[0104] Aspect 7. A box according to Aspect 6, and preferably according to Aspects 1 and 6, wherein the strain relief member is a first strain relief member, wherein the cable extends between opposite first and second ends, the first end of the cable is located outside the box body, wherein the first end of the cable is terminated at a detachable connection interface member, and wherein the detachable connection interface member includes a second strain relief member facing in an opposite direction to the first strain relief member.

[0105] Aspect 8. A box according to any one of Aspects 1-7, wherein the main body defines a first area and a second area, the second area is arranged behind the first area, wherein the second end of the cable is arranged at the first area, and wherein the bend of the cable is arranged at the second area.

[0106] Aspect 9. The box according to aspect 8, wherein the second area defines a cable management device configured to guide a curved portion of the cable.

[0107] Aspect 10. The box according to any one of aspects 1 to 9, wherein the cable extends along a central axis of the box body between the second area and a front portion of the box body.

[0108] Aspect 11. The box according to any one of aspects 8 to 10, wherein a first area of ​​the box body is defined by a first box piece, and a second area of ​​the box body is defined by a second box piece removably connected to the first box piece.

[0109] Aspect 12. The cartridge of aspect 11, wherein the second cartridge comprises a protrusion configured to fit at an aperture defined by the first cartridge.

[0110] Aspect 13. A cartridge according to aspect 12, wherein the protrusion comprises a latch member deflected along an axis parallel to an insertion axis, the protrusion sliding into the aperture along the insertion axis when the second cartridge is mounted to the first cartridge.

[0111] Aspect 14. The cartridge of aspect 13, wherein each latch member comprises a first inclined surface facing in a first direction and a second inclined surface facing in a second direction, the second inclined surface being angled at a non-zero angle relative to the first inclined surface.

[0112] Aspect 15. The box according to aspect 14, wherein the first inclined surface and the second inclined surface are angled at an angle of 45 degrees.

[0113] Aspect 16. The cassette of aspect 12, wherein the aperture is sized to receive a multi-fiber adapter.

[0114] Aspect 17. A communication panel, comprising: a chassis defining an interior; a tray disposed within the interior of the chassis, the tray having a depth extending between the front and rear of the tray; and a plurality of boxes mounted to the tray, each box comprising a plurality of detachable connection interface positions, and each box comprising a cable that transmits signals from the plurality of detachable connection interface positions to a connectorized end of the cable, each cable extending out of a corresponding box in front of the front of the tray.

[0115] Aspect 18. The communication panel according to aspect 17, wherein each cable has a curved portion stored in the corresponding box.

[0116] Aspect 19. The telecommunications panel according to aspect 18, wherein each box includes a strain relief member through which the corresponding cable can be released.

[0117] Aspect 20. The communications panel according to any one of aspects 17-19, wherein the boxes are mounted to the tray in a row and side by side.

[0118] Aspect 21. A method for wiring a rack, the method comprising: filling a tray of a chassis with a box, the box containing a portion of a cable, the box including a port member at which a signal transmitted by the cable can be accessed, the cable having a connectorized end at which the signal transmitted by the cable can also be accessed, the connectorized end being arranged on the outside of the box; releasing some of the cables from the box; and inserting the connectorized end of the cable into another port.

[0119] Aspect 22. The method according to aspect 21, wherein a portion of the cable is looped within the box.

[0120] Aspect 23. The method according to aspect 21, wherein the portion of the cable is wrapped within the box in a figure 8 configuration.

[0121] Aspect 24. The method of aspect 21, wherein filling the tray with the boxes comprises sliding the boxes onto the tray until the boxes lock to the tray.

[0122] Aspect 25. A communication device, comprising: a tray, the tray extending along a front-to-rear axis between the front of the tray and the rear of the tray, the tray carrying a plurality of spaced-apart box guides extending parallel to each other along the front-to-rear axis of the tray; a box, the box being configured to be mounted to the tray, the box extending along the front-to-rear axis of the tray between the front of the box and the rear of the box, the box being configured to receive a rear cable or a connectorized end of the rear cable at the rear of the box, the box being sized to pass from a first box guide among the box guides, through a second box guide among the box guides , a third box guide extending into the box guide, the box being configured to be interconnected with the first box guide and the second box guide but not with the third box guide; and a cable routing guide mounted to the tray, the cable routing guide defining a cable guide path along the front-to-back axis of the tray, the cable routing guide defining a front opening leading to the cable guide path at the front of the tray, and the cable routing guide defining a rear opening leading to the cable guide path at the rear of the tray, the rear opening facing at a non-zero angle relative to the front-to-back axis.

[0123] Aspect 26. The communication device according to aspect 25, wherein the rear opening faces orthogonally to the front-rear axis.

[0124] Aspect 27. The communication device according to aspect 25 or aspect 26, wherein the cable guide path is corrugated at the rear of the tray and is straight at the front of the tray.

[0125] Aspect 28. The communication device according to any one of aspects 25-27, wherein the cable routing guide further comprises a protruding guide member extending forward from the front of the tray.

[0126] Aspect 29. The communication device of claim 28, wherein the protruding guide member defines a cable passage facing at a non-zero angle relative to the front-to-back axis.

[0127] Aspect 30. The communication device of claim 29, wherein the cable path of the protruding guide member faces orthogonally to the front-rear axis.

[0128] Aspect 31. The communication device according to any one of claims 25-30, wherein the cable routing guide is a first cable routing guide mounted to a first side of the tray; and wherein a second cable routing guide is mounted to a second side of the tray opposite to the first cable routing guide.

[0129] Aspect 32. The communication device of any one of claims 25-31, wherein the box is configured to receive a front cable or a connectorized end of the front cable at a front of the box.

[0130] Aspect 33. The communication device of claim 32, wherein the box carries a plurality of port members, and wherein the front cable and the rear cable are connected together at one or more of the port members.

[0131] Aspect 34. The communication device of claim 33, wherein the port member comprises a rear port member at which the connectorized end of the rear cable is received.

[0132] Aspect 35. The communication device of claim 33, wherein the port member comprises a front port member at which the connectorized end of the front cable is received.

[0133] Aspect 36. The communication device of claim 35, wherein the rear cable extends through a rear portion of the box such that a connectorized end of the rear cable is received at the front port member.

[0134] Aspect 37. A communication panel, comprising: a chassis, the chassis defining an interior extending along the depth between the front of the chassis and the rear of the chassis; a plurality of box units arranged in the interior, each box unit extending along the depth between the front of the box unit and the rear of the box unit, each box unit comprising: a box, the box being configured to receive a rear cable or a connectorized end of the rear cable at the rear of the box, each box carrying a plurality of front ports, receiving data signals transmitted by the rear cables at the front ports, the front ports being arranged at the front of the box, and a box manager, the box manager being configured to route the rear cables from the rear of the box to the front of the box unit.

[0135] Aspect 38. The communications panel of claim 37, wherein the cassette is slidably mounted to the cassette manager.

[0136] Aspect 39. A communications panel according to claim 37 or claim 38, wherein each box manager defines a bend radius limiter extending at least 180 degrees.

[0137] Aspect 40. The communications panel of any one of claims 37-39, wherein the cassette manager has opposing first and second major surfaces, and wherein the cassette is mounted to the first major surface.

[0138] Aspect 41. The communications panel of claim 40, wherein the box manager is configured to route the rear cables over the first major surface.

[0139] Aspect 42. The communications panel of claim 40, wherein the box manager is configured to route the rear cables over the second major surface.

[0140] Aspect 43. The communications panel of any one of claims 37-42, wherein the box unit is mounted within the chassis in a vertical orientation.

[0141] Aspect 44. The communications panel of any one of claims 37-42, wherein the box unit is mounted within the chassis in a horizontal orientation.

[0142] Aspect 45. The communications panel of any one of claims 37-44, wherein each cassette manager is configured to receive only one cassette.

[0143] Aspect 46. A communication panel, comprising: a chassis, the chassis defining an interior extending along a depth between the front of the chassis and the rear of the chassis; a box, the box extending between the front of the box and the rear of the box along the front-to-rear axis of the tray element, the box being configured to receive a rear cable or a connectorized end of the rear cable at the rear of the box, each box carrying a plurality of front ports at the front of the box, receiving data signals transmitted by the rear cables at the front ports; and a tray element mountable within the chassis, the tray element extending along the front-to-rear axis between the front of the tray element and the rear of the tray element, the tray element carrying a plurality of spaced-apart guides extending parallel to each other along the front-to-rear axis of the tray element, the guides being configured to receive the box, the tray element also defining a cable guide path extending from the rear of the tray element to the front of the tray element.

[0144] Aspect 47. The communications panel of claim 46, wherein the tray element includes a box manager configured to receive only a single box.

[0145] Aspect 48. The communications panel of claim 46, wherein the tray element comprises a tray configured to receive a plurality of boxes.

[0146] Having described the preferred aspects and embodiments of the present disclosure, modifications and equivalents of the disclosed concepts may be readily apparent to those skilled in the art. However, it is intended that such modifications and equivalents be included within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A communication device, comprising: a tray element extending along a front-to-rear axis between a front portion of the tray element and a rear portion of the tray element, the tray element carrying a plurality of spaced-apart cartridge guides extending parallel to one another along the front-to-rear axis of the tray element; a cassette configured to be mounted to the tray element, the cassette extending between a front portion of the cassette and a rear portion of the cassette along a front-to-rear axis of the tray element, the cassette including a first rail configured to engage one of cassette guides of the tray element, the cassette defining a bottom channel extending at least partially along the front-to-rear axis of the tray element, the cassette including a second rail disposed in the bottom channel to engage another of the cassette guides of the tray element, the cassette carrying a port member defining a front port accessible at a front portion of the tray element; as well as A cable guide path is defined by at least one of the tray element and the box, the cable guide path having a front opening at the front of the tray element, the cable guide path extending along the front-to-rear axis of the tray element through the port member of the box and toward the rear of the box.

2. The communication device of claim 1, wherein the tray element comprises a tray.

3. A communication device according to claim 2, wherein the box includes a first part and a second part, the first part is positioned closer to the front of the tray than the second part, the first part of the box holds the port member; and the second part of the box defines a cable storage area, and the cable guide path extends between the cable storage area and the front of the box.

4. The communication device according to claim 2 or claim 3, further comprising a cable extending from the inside of the box to the outside of the box, the cable being movable relative to the box to enable the cable to be paid out from the box.

5. The communication device of claim 4, wherein the port member is one of a plurality of port members carried by the box, and wherein the cable extends outwardly from the box between the port members.

6. The communication device of claim 2, wherein the tray element includes a cable routing guide defining the cable guide path, wherein the cable guide path extends from the front opening to a rear opening, the rear opening facing orthogonally to a front-to-rear axis of the tray element.

7. The communication device according to claim 6, wherein the cable routing guide is a first cable routing guide mounted to a first side of the tray element; and wherein a second cable routing guide is mounted to a second side of the tray element opposite to the first cable routing guide.

8. The communication device of claim 2, wherein the tray element includes a cartridge manager configured to receive only a single cartridge, wherein the cartridge manager has opposing first and second major surfaces, and wherein the cartridge is mounted to the first major surface.

9. The communications panel of claim 8, wherein the box manager is configured to route rear cables over the first major surface.

10. The telecommunications panel of claim 8, wherein the box manager is configured to route the rear cables over the second major surface.

11. The communication device of claim 10, wherein the cable routing guide further comprises a protruding guide member extending forwardly from a front of the tray, the protruding guide member defining a cable passage facing at a non-zero angle relative to the front-to-rear axis.

12. The communication device of any one of claims 8-11, wherein each box manager defines a bend radius limiter along the cable guide path, the bend radius limiter extending at least 180 degrees.

13. The communication device according to any one of claims 6 to 12, wherein the cable guiding path is corrugated at the rear of the tray element and is straight at the front of the tray element.

14. The communication device according to any one of claims 6-13 further includes a first cable arranged along the cable guiding path, the first cable having a first end extending outward from a front opening of the cable guiding path at the front of the tray element, and the first cable is connected to the box so that the signal transmitted on the first cable is accessible at the front port of the port member of the box.

15. A communication device according to claim 14, wherein the front port of the port member of the box is configured to receive a second cable or a connectorized end of the second cable, wherein the box carries a plurality of port members, and wherein the first cable and the second cable are connected together at one or more of the port members.

16. The communication device according to any one of claims 1-15, wherein the box is slidably mounted to the tray element.

17. A box for use in a communication panel, the box comprising: a box body extending along a depth between the front and rear portions, along a width between opposing first and second sides, and along a height between a top and a bottom portion, the width being perpendicular to the depth and the height being perpendicular to both the depth and the width; a row of port members carried at the front of the body, each port member defining a front port configured to receive a plug connector, the front port being accessible from the front of the body; as well as A cable extends from the interior of the box body to the exterior of the box body at a position between the port members along the row, the cable being movable relative to the box body to enable the cable to be paid out from the box body.

18. The box of claim 17, wherein the box defines a first area and a second area, the second area being disposed rearward of the first area, wherein the second end of the cable is disposed at the first area, and wherein the bend of the cable is disposed at the second area.

19. The box according to claim 18, wherein a first area of ​​the box body is defined by a first box member, and a second area of ​​the box body is defined by a second box member removably connected to the first box member.

20. A box according to claim 19, wherein the second box member includes a protrusion, which is configured to be installed at an orifice defined by the first box member, wherein the protrusion includes a latch member deflected along an axis, the axis is parallel to the insertion axis, and when the second box member is installed to the first box member, the protrusion slides into the orifice along the insertion axis, wherein each latch member includes a first inclined surface facing a first direction and a second inclined surface facing a second direction, and the second inclined surface is angled at a non-zero angle relative to the first inclined surface.

21. The cartridge of claim 20, wherein the first inclined surface and the second inclined surface are angled at a 45 degree angle.

22. The cassette of claim 20, wherein the aperture is sized to receive a multi-fiber adapter.

23. The enclosure of any one of claims 18-22, wherein the second region defines a cable management device configured to guide a bend in the cable.

24. The box according to any one of claims 18 to 23, wherein the cable extends along a central axis of the box body between the second region and a front portion of the box body.

25. A box according to any one of claims 17-24, wherein the cable extends between opposite first and second ends, the first end of the cable is located outside the box body, the second end of the cable is located inside the box body, and the cable has a bend stored in the box body.

26. The box of claim 25, wherein a first end of the cable terminates at a detachable connection interface member, the detachable connection interface member being tethered to the box body via the cable.

27. A box according to any one of claims 17-26, further comprising a strain relief member mounted at the front of the box so as to be axially stationary relative to the box, wherein the cable passes through the strain relief member as the cable transitions between the interior of the box and the exterior of the box, and the cable is axially slidable relative to the strain relief member and relative to the box.

28. A method for wiring a rack, the method comprising: Filling a tray of the chassis with a box, the box containing a portion of a cable, the box including a port member at which a signal carried by the cable can be accessed, the cable having a connectorized end at which a signal carried by the cable can also be accessed, the connectorized end being disposed on the exterior of the box; releasing some of the cables from the box; as well as Insert the connectorized end of the cable into another port.

29. The method of claim 28, wherein filling the tray with the boxes comprises sliding the boxes onto the tray until the boxes lock to the tray.

Images