Splicing box

Abstract

A cassette assembly is designed to be mounted to a rail of a tray device in a telecommunication system. The assembly may include a cartridge base having a channel extending along a length thereof and positioned between a first side and a second side. The channel may be sized to receive a guide rail of the tray device, and may define a splice holder receiving channel that exposes a top surface of the guide rail. The spool may be selectively coupleable to the cassette base and may have a fiber management member for routing optical fibers within the interior of the cassette base. The splice holder may be selectively coupleable to the spool and may be positioned within the splice holder receiving channel with a bottom surface of the splice holder adjacent and facing a top of a guide rail of the tray device such that the splice holder can be positioned above the guide rail.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application was filed on February 8, 2024 as a PCT international application and claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 483,866, filed on February 8, 2023, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to cable management systems and, more particularly, to a cassette assembly for organizing and protecting fiber optic cables or wires within a tray arrangement. Background Art

[0004] The demand for increased capacity in the telecommunications industry is rapidly growing. This demand is being met, in part, by the increasing use and density of fiber-optic transmission equipment. While fiber-optic equipment allows for higher levels of transmission within the same or smaller footprint than traditional copper transmission equipment, this demand is also requiring even higher fiber densities. This has led to the development of high-density fiber-handling equipment.

[0005] In a communications panel system, port components (e.g., optical adapters, electrical jacks, hybrid port components, etc.) defining front ports are mounted to one or more trays that may be disposed within a chassis. The front ports are configured to receive plug connectors at the front of the trays. The trays may be stationary within the chassis or may slide in front of the chassis to enhance access to the port components. U.S. Patent Publication No. 2022 / 0260799 illustrates some exemplary panel systems.

[0006] Needs improvement. Summary of the Invention

[0007] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a box assembly designed to be mounted on a tray device guide rail, the box assembly including a box base having a channel in a mid-portion of the base to receive the guide rail. In an embodiment, the channel defines a splice holder receiving channel that exposes a top surface of the guide rail. The box assembly also includes a spool that can be attached to the base and has fiber management features. A splice holder can be attached to the spool and can be positioned in the splice holder receiving channel of the box base so that the splice holder is located above the guide rail.

[0008] Another aspect of the present disclosure provides a box assembly designed to be mounted on a tray device rail, the box assembly including a box base having a port member receiving aperture at the front, a cable entry at the rear, and an area for a splice holder. The base may have one or more structures for routing optical fibers / cables from the front and rear to the splice holder area. The box assembly may also include a spool that may be attached to the box base and may include an S-shaped structure to route optical fibers / cables from the front to the splice holder area to reduce crossover with optical fibers / cables from the rear.

[0009] Yet another aspect of the present disclosure provides a method for routing a first optical fiber or cable and a second optical fiber cable within a cassette assembly.

[0010] In one embodiment, a box assembly is adapted to be mounted to a guide rail of a tray arrangement. The assembly includes a box base having a channel extending along its length, the channel being positioned between two sides of the box and sized to receive the guide rail. The channel defines a splice holder receiving channel that exposes a top surface of the guide rail to an interior of the box base. The assembly also includes a spool that can be coupled to the box base and that has a fiber management member for routing optical fiber or cable therein. A splice holder can be coupled to the spool and positioned within the splice holder receiving channel of the box base, with the bottom surface of the splice holder facing the top of the guide rail.

[0011] In one embodiment, the box assembly has a lid that can be coupled to the box base to enclose its interior. The splice holder can be configured to hold a specific number of splices. The splice holder can be fixed to the spool by a T-shaped aperture and a deflectable latch finger arrangement. The box base can have a post to secure the spool to the box base by an interference fit connection. The box base can also have a port member receiving aperture (there are a specific number of port member receiving apertures) at its front, and a structure for routing the optical fiber or cable from the aperture to the splice holder.

[0012] In one embodiment, the box base defines an outer ring retaining member and an inner ring retaining member to route an optical fiber or cable from the front aperture to the splice holder. The spool has an S-shaped structure to route the optical fiber or cable from the front aperture to the splice holder to reduce crossover with a second optical fiber or cable from the rear cable entry to the splice holder area. The box base also has a cable entry at its rear portion and structure to route a second optical fiber or cable from the entry to the splice holder area.

[0013] In one embodiment, the box assembly includes a box base and a spool. The box base is adapted to be mounted to a guide rail of a tray device and has a front port member receiving aperture and a rear port member receiving aperture, a cable inlet, and an area for receiving a splice holder. The box base has a structure for routing optical fibers or cables from the front and rear apertures to the splice holder area. The spool, which can be coupled to the box base, has an S-shaped structure for routing optical fibers or cables from the front aperture to the splice holder area.

[0014] In one embodiment, a box assembly is provided that includes a box base that is adapted to be mounted to a guide rail of a tray device. The box base defines a port member receiving aperture at a front portion of the box base, a cable entry at a rear portion of the box base, and an area configured to receive a splice holder. The box base further defines one or more first structures that enable routing a first optical fiber or cable from the port member receiving aperture at the front portion of the box base to the area configured to receive the splice holder; and one or more second structures that enable routing a second optical fiber or cable from the cable entry at the rear portion of the box base to the area configured to receive the splice holder; and a spool that can be connected to the box base, the spool defining an S-shaped structure that is configured to enable routing a first optical fiber or cable from the port member receiving aperture at the front portion of the box base to the area configured to receive the splice holder.

[0015] In one embodiment, a method for routing a first optical fiber or cable and a second optical fiber or cable within a box assembly involves: cutting a distal portion of the first optical fiber or cable into a first predetermined length; cutting a proximal portion of the second optical fiber or cable into a second predetermined length; splicing the proximal portion of the first optical fiber or cable to the distal portion of the second optical fiber or cable using a splice; positioning the splice within a splice holder; routing the distal portion of the first optical fiber or cable from a port member receiving aperture at a front portion of a box base through one or more outer ring retaining members to a cable entry at a rear portion of the box base, aligning the distal portion of the first optical fiber or cable with the proximal portion of the second optical fiber or cable; positioning the splice holder within a spool; routing the proximal portion of the first optical fiber or cable through an S-shaped structure defined by the spool, aligning the proximal portion of the first optical fiber or cable with the distal portion of the second optical fiber or cable; routing the aligned intermediate portions of the first optical fiber or cable and the second optical fiber or cable through one or more outer ring retaining members and an inner ring retaining member; and positioning the spool within the box base. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate several aspects of the present disclosure. A brief description of the drawings is as follows:

[0017] Figure 1 is a perspective view depicting a communications panel mounted to a rack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] Figure 2 is a perspective view depicting a tray assembly including a plurality of guide rails according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] Figure 3 is a close-up perspective view depicting a bay defined between two rails of a tray assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] Figure 4 is an end view depicting a bay defined between two rails of a tray assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] Figure 5 is a perspective view depicting a plurality of cartridge assemblies of a first size attached to a tray assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] Figure 6 is a perspective view depicting a plurality of cartridge assemblies of a second size attached to a tray assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] Figure 7 is a perspective view depicting a plurality of cartridge assemblies of a third size attached to a tray assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] Figure 8 is a partially exploded perspective view of a cartridge assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] Figure 9 is an end view depicting a cartridge assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] Figure 10 is a perspective view depicting a box base according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] Figure 11 The embodiment according to the present disclosure is described Figure 10 A plan view of the box base.

[0028] Figure 12 is a plan view depicting a spool according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] Figure 13 is a perspective view depicting a six-groove splice holder according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] Figure 14 is a perspective view depicting an eight-slot stub holder according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] Figure 15is a top perspective view of a four-slot stub retainer according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] Figure 16 According to an embodiment of the present disclosure Figure 15 Bottom perspective view of a four-slot splice holder.

[0033] Figure 17 is a plan view of an assembled cartridge assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] Figure 18 is an end view depicting a splice holder positioned within a cassette base on or over a guide rail of a tray assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] Figure 19 is an end view depicting a splice holder positioned between two rails of a tray assembly within a cassette base according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] Figure 20 is a partially exploded plan view depicting a first size cartridge assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] Figure 21 is a partially exploded plan view depicting a second size cartridge assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] Figure 22 is a partially exploded plan view depicting a third size of a cartridge assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] Figure 23 is a flow chart depicting a method of routing optical fiber within a cassette assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0040] Figure 24 is a schematic diagram depicting preferred optical fiber or cable lengths for use with a first sized cassette assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] Figure 25 is a schematic diagram depicting preferred optical fiber or cable lengths for use with a second size cassette assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0042] Figure 26 is a schematic diagram depicting preferred optical fiber or cable lengths for use with a third size cassette assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0043] Figure 27 is a cross-sectional view of a cassette assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein one or more free ends of optical fibers or cables are positioned proximate to one another in preparation for forming a splice therebetween.

[0044] Figure 28is a cross-sectional view of a cassette assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein one or more free ends of optical fibers or cables are fused together in a splice assembly.

[0045] Figure 29 is a cross-sectional view of a cassette assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein a splice end of an optical fiber or cable is positioned within a splice holder.

[0046] Figure 30 is a schematic diagram depicting the overall routing of optical fibers or cables to a splice holder according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0047] Figure 31 is a cross-sectional view depicting the routing of an optical fiber or cable around an S-shaped structure defined by a spool according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0048] Figure 32 is a bobbin including an S-shaped structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0049] Figure 33 is a cross-sectional view depicting the routing of optical fibers or cables within a box assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0050] Figure 34 is a cross-sectional view depicting a box assembly having optical fibers or cables routed therein according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0051] Figure 35 is a cross-sectional view depicting a spool including one or more features for connecting to a case base according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0052] Figure 36 is a cross-sectional view depicting a box base including one or more features for connecting to a spool according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0053] Figure 37 is a schematic diagram of routing optical fibers or cables within a box assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0054] Figure 38 is a cross-sectional view depicting optical fibers or cables installed within a first sized cassette assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0055] Figure 39 is a cross-sectional view depicting optical fibers or cables installed within a second size cassette assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0056] Figure 40 is a cross-sectional view depicting optical fibers or cables installed within a third size cassette assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0057] 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.

[0058] refer to Figure 1 , depicts a communication panel 100 mounted to a rack R according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In an embodiment, the communication panel 100 may include a chassis 105 configured to hold one or more tray devices 110 (e.g., Figure 2-4 ). For example, in some embodiments, the tray assembly 110 can be slidably received along the depth (D) of the chassis 105. In other embodiments, the tray assembly 110 can be fixed relative to the chassis 105. In some embodiments, each tray assembly 110 can span the width (W) of the chassis 105. Each tray assembly 110 can be configured to support one or more boxes 200 (e.g., Figure 5-7 ), the one or more boxes carry ports (eg, optical ports, electrical ports, hybrid ports, etc.) configured to receive plug connectors. A tray device 110 populated with one or more boxes 200 is referred to herein as a communication device 108.

[0059] like Figure 2 As best depicted in FIG, the tray device 110 may include a main region 112 extending along a front-to-back axis (FR) between a front end 114 and a rear end 116 of the main region 112. The main region 112 further extends along a lateral axis (LA) between opposing first and second sides 118, 120 of the main region 112. The main region 112 of the tray device 110 may carry one or more guide rails 150. Each guide rail 150 may extend parallel to the front-to-back axis (FR) and may be spaced apart from one another along the lateral axis (LA). The guide rails 150 may be configured to slidingly receive one or more cassettes 200 from either the front end 114 of the main region 112 or from the rear end 116 of the main region 112, at the discretion of a user.

[0060] The rail 150 may extend along a lateral axis (LA) across the main region 112 of the tray assembly 110. For example, Figure 3-4 As depicted, in some embodiments, the rails 150 are spaced apart from one another by a common distance (CD) along a lateral axis (LA) to define one or more bays 140; however, the bays 140 may also be defined by only one rail 150, in which case the bays 140 extend toward the side walls of the chassis 105.

[0061] Each of the guide rails 150 may include a first side 156 and a second side 158 extending between a front end 152 and a rear end 154. In some embodiments, the guide rails 150 can be configured to engage (e.g., interconnect) with the cartridge 200 from the second side 158. For example, as depicted, the first side 156 defines a closure surface 160, and the second side 158 defines a cartridge engagement structure in the form of a groove 162 that extends along the length of the guide rails 150 between the opposite ends. In some embodiments, the guide rails 150 can have a generally L-shaped or C-shaped cross-sectional profile along at least a portion of the length of the guide rails 150.

[0062] Furthermore, each of the guide rails 150 can define a top surface 164 that extends along the length of the guide rails 150. In some examples, the top surface 164 of the guide rails 150 can define an inclined surface at a first side and a second side of the groove 162. In some embodiments, the top surface 164 can define a notch 166 at a location midway between the first side and the second side of the groove 162 that can provide access to the groove 162 through the top surface 164. In some embodiments, the notch 166 provides access to a forward-facing snap-fit ​​surface and a rearward-facing snap-fit ​​surface at opposite ends of the notch 166.

[0063] like Figure 5-7 As depicted in FIG, the boxes 200A, 200B, and 200C can be manufactured with many different base sizes. Each box base 202 can define a plurality of front openings 212 (e.g., three front openings, four front openings, six front openings, etc.) at the front end 204. Each of the front openings 212 is configured to hold one or more front port members 230. For example, in one embodiment, the box base 202 can carry one or more quad LC adapters at each of the front openings 212, and the quad LC adapter can define two duplex LC ports (i.e., four LC ports). In other examples, the box base 202 can carry a duplex MPO adapter, two quad SN adapters, two SC adapters, or any desired adapter type that fits within the space occupied by the quad LC adapter. In other embodiments, the front openings 212 can be sized to handle other port spaces.

[0064] Examples of various sized boxes include: 6 duplex port / 3 quadruple port splice box 200A (eg Figure 5 8 duplex ports / 4 quadruple port junction box 200B (as depicted); Figure 6 and 12 duplex ports / 6 quadruple port junction box 200C (as Figure 7). The boxes 200 can have different widths, with larger base size boxes generally being wider than smaller base size boxes. In an embodiment, the guide rails 150 and boxes 200 are designed in a manner such that boxes 200A, 200B, 200C of different sizes can fit on the same tray device 110, without requiring the sizes of the boxes to be integer increments of each other. This allows the user to flexibly load multiple boxes of different sizes into the tray device 110, and in some cases, multiple sizes of boxes can be accommodated on a single tray device 110.

[0065] Additional references Figure 8 Each box may include a box base 202 extending along a width between opposing first and second sides 208 and 210, along a length between a front end 204 and a rear end 206, and along a height between a bottom and a top. The length, width, and height may be orthogonal to one another. In this particular embodiment, the box base 202 includes a pair of rear port members 232 (e.g., duplex MPO adapters) at the rear end 206 of the box base 202. In other embodiments, the box base 202 may define an opening through which input cables may pass. The front port members 230 include an array of single-fiber adapters (e.g., quad LC adapters). In other embodiments, the front port members 230 may be configured to receive other types of adapters, including multi-fiber adapters (e.g., duplex MPO adapters, etc.). Optical fibers or cables, collectively referred to herein as "media segments," may extend between the rear port members 232 (or the rear of the input cables passing through the rear of the box base 202) and the front port members 230 to form a connection therebetween.

[0066] Additional references Figure 9 , the box base 202 can define one or more bottom channels 222 extending along the length of the box base 202. In embodiments, the bottom channels 222 can be sized to receive the rails 150, thereby enabling the box 200 to extend over the one or more rails 150. In embodiments, each box 200 spans at least two bays 140 of the tray arrangement 110. For example, in some embodiments, the bottom channel 222 is disposed at a middle region 214 of the box 200 between the two front apertures 212. In some implementations, the channel 222 can be sized such that the top of the channel 222 is spaced apart from the top surface 164 of the rails 150 received therein; alternatively, the channel 222 can be sized such that the top of the channel 222 rests on and slides along the top of the rails.

[0067] In certain embodiments, the box base 202 includes an end rail 218 on the first side 208 of the box base 202. The end rail 218 can be configured to fit within the groove 162 of a corresponding one of the guide rails 150 and can be configured to slide along the groove 162 from either the open front end or the open rear end of the groove 162. In some embodiments, the end rail 218 and the bottom rail 220 of each box base 202 extend in a common direction from a base end 218a, 220a attached to the box base 202 to a free end 218b, 220b. In some examples, the common direction extends along the width of the box base 202. In some examples, the free ends 218b, 220b of the rails 218, 220 extend parallel to the height of the box base 202. In other examples, the free ends 218b, 220b of the rails 218, 220 are angled relative to the height of the box base 202.

[0068] In an embodiment, the front and / or rear ends of the end rails 218 and the bottom rails 220 may be offset inwardly from the front 204 and rear 206 of the cassette base 202. For example, the front and rear ends of the bottom rails 220 may be disposed within corresponding bottom channels 222. Offsetting the front and / or rear ends of the rails 218, 220 may facilitate positioning of the cassette 200 on the tray arrangement 110 by first roughly aligning the rails 150 with the bottom channels 222, and then aligning the rails 118 with the grooves 162 of the rails 150.

[0069] In some embodiments, the cartridge 200 is configured to lock to the rail 150 in at least one discrete position. For example, with continued reference to Figure 8 , each cassette 200 may include a latching device 240 that rides on the top 164 of a corresponding one of the guide rails 150. The latching device 240 may include a stop member 242 that drops into the notch 166 of the corresponding guide rail 150 to lock the cassette 200 relative to the guide rail 150. The latching device 240 may also include a release handle 244 to raise the stop member 242 out of the notch 166.

[0070] For example, in some embodiments, the stop member 242 can be carried by the cassette base 202 at the first side 208 and can be movable relative to the cassette base 202 along an axis of movement that extends parallel to the height of the cassette 200. In some embodiments, the stop member 242 is movable along the axis of movement between a locked position and a released position, wherein the stop member 242 is biased into the locked position.

[0071] In operation, when the cassette 200 is first mounted to the guide rail 150, the stop member 242 can ride on the inclined surface 172 at the front end 152 or the rear end 154 of the guide rail 150. The inclined surface 172 can transition the stop member 242 from the locked position to the released position so that the top 164 of the guide rail 150 holds the stop member 242 in the released position until the stop member 242 is vertically aligned with the notch 166. The notch 166 allows the stop member 242 to transition to the locked position. Additional details regarding the latching and unlocking of the cassette 200 relative to the tray arrangement 110 are disclosed in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2022 / 0260799, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0072] refer to Figure 10-11 , depicts a box base 202 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The box base 202 may extend along a width between a first side 208 and a second side 210, along a length between a front end 204 and a rear end 206, and along a height between a bottom 209 and a top 211. In some embodiments, the length, width, and height may be orthogonal to one another. In an embodiment, the box base 202 may define a channel 222 that extends at least partially along the length of the box base 202. In some embodiments, the channel 222 may be positioned mid-width between the first side 208 and the second side 210. For example, in some embodiments, the box base 202 may define a pair of channels 222A, 222B, wherein substantially equal distances (D1, D2, D3) are positioned between each of the first side 208, the first channel 222A, the second channel 222B, and the second side 210.

[0073] In other embodiments, the distances may be staggered, provided that at least one channel 222 is at least partially positioned between the first side 208 and the second side 210. Figure 20-23 As further depicted in FIG, it is also contemplated that more than two channels 222 may be used. For example, in some embodiments, the cartridge base 202 may define three spaced-apart channels 222 (e.g., Figure 22 ) or six spaced apart channels 222 (as depicted in Figure 23 ). In an embodiment, each of the channels 222 may be shaped and dimensioned to receive the rails 150 of the tray apparatus 110 , thereby enabling the box base 222 to extend over at least one of the rails 150 of the tray apparatus 110 .

[0074] like Figure 10-11, in some embodiments, the channel 222 can define a stub holder receiving channel 224. For example, in some embodiments, the stub holder receiving channel 224 can be defined by removing a portion of the structure defining the channel 222, thereby exposing the top surface 164 of the rail 150 of the tray apparatus 100 to the interior 226 of the box base 202 when the box base 202 is operably coupled to the tray apparatus 100.

[0075] In some embodiments, the bottom of the box base 202 can be defined by a bottom plate 225 that can be substantially planar between the channels 222 and arranged as longitudinally oriented raised portions that traverse over the channels 222. In some embodiments, the stub holder receiving channel 224 can be defined by removing a portion of the bottom plate 225, thereby exposing a portion of the interior 226 of the box base 222 to a portion of the tray arrangement 110 when the box base 202 is operably coupled to the tray arrangement 100.

[0076] In an embodiment, the box base 202 may define one or more port member receiving apertures 212 in the front end 204 of the box base 202. For example, in various depicted embodiments, the box base 202 may define at least three port member receiving apertures 212, four port member receiving apertures 212, or six port member receiving apertures 212; however, other numbers of port member receiving apertures are also contemplated. In some embodiments, the box base 202 defines a cable entry 213 at the rear end 206 of the box base 202, the cable entry being sized to allow optical fibers or cable bundles to pass therethrough. In some embodiments, the cable entry 213 may define an aperture or structure to which one or more cable ties (e.g., zip ties, hook-and-loop ties, etc.) may be mounted to secure one or more optical fibers or cables passing therethrough. To facilitate connection and disconnection of components to the box base 202, in some embodiments, the box base 202 may define one or more posts 252 that are configured to be received in one or more receptacles of components that are selectively attachable or connectable to the box base 202 (e.g., spools, splice trays, etc.).

[0077] In some embodiments, the box base 202 can define a structure configured to enable routing of a first optical fiber or cable from one or more port receiving apertures 212 at the front end 204 of the box base 202 to an area 227 of the box base 202 configured to receive a splice holder (e.g., near the splice holder receiving channel 224). For example, in one embodiment, the box base 202 can define at least one outer ring retaining member 262 configured to receive a first outer ring of a first optical fiber or cable routed from the port receiving apertures 212 toward the rear end 206 of the box base 202. In some embodiments, the at least one outer ring retaining member 262 can include a portion of a wall defining a predetermined or minimum bend radius, and one or more cable retention tabs extending generally parallel to the bottom plate 225, the one or more cable retention tabs configured to retain the first optical fiber or cable in position relative to the outer ring retaining member 262. In some embodiments, a plurality of outer ring retaining members 262 may be disposed about the perimeter of the region 227 , thereby defining a preferred routing for positioning and retaining optical fibers or cables within the interior 226 of the box base 202 .

[0078] In some embodiments, the cassette base 202 can define at least one inner ring retention member 264 configured to receive a second inner ring of a first optical fiber or cable as the first optical fiber or cable traverses from the port receiving aperture 212 to the region 227. In some embodiments, the at least one inner ring retention member 264 can include a portion of a wall defining a predetermined or minimum bend radius, and one or more cable retention tabs extending generally parallel to the bottom plate 225, the one or more cable retention tabs configured to retain the first optical fiber or cable in position relative to the inner ring retention member 264.

[0079] In some embodiments, a plurality of inner ring retention members 264 can be provided to define a preferred routing for positioning and retaining optical fibers or cables within the interior 226 of the box base 202. In embodiments, the inner ring retention members 264 can be positioned to form a loop closer to the region 227 than the loop formed by the outer ring retention members 226. In some embodiments, the structure configured to enable routing of a first optical fiber or cable (e.g., the inner and outer ring retention members 262, 264, etc.) can also be used to route and retain a second optical fiber or cable from the cable entry 213 at the rear end 206 of the box base 202 to the region 227 of the box base 202 configured to receive a splice holder, thereby enabling efficient routing of cables within the interior 226. Furthermore, in embodiments, the various structures described herein can enable routing of cables or optical fibers within the interior 226 without crossing the first optical fiber or cable with the second optical fiber or cable, which can result in significant space savings, particularly when the optical fibers or cables are ribbon-shaped.

[0080] Additional references Figure 12 , depicts a spool 302 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In embodiments, the spool 302 can be selectively coupled to the case base 202. For example, in some embodiments, the spool 302 can define one or more receptacles 304 configured to receive one or more posts 252 defined by the case base 202, thereby enabling an interference fit connection between the one or more receptacles 304 and the one or more posts 252.

[0081] In embodiments, the spool 302 can define one or more fiber management features to facilitate routing of optical fibers or cables within the interior 226 of the box base 202. For example, in one embodiment, the spool 302 can define an S-shaped structure 306 configured to enable routing of a first optical fiber or cable from one of the plurality of port member receiving apertures 212 at the front end 204 of the box base 202 to an area 227 of the box base 202 configured to receive a splice holder, while minimizing crossover with a second optical fiber or cable traversing from the cable entry 213 at the rear end 206 of the box base 202 to the area 227. In some embodiments, the S-shaped structure 306 can be configured to route at least one of the first optical fiber or cable or the second optical fiber or cable around opposing sides of a pair of receptacles 304. In some embodiments, the S-shaped structure 306 can define at least one wall 308 extending orthogonally upward from the bottom plate 310, the at least one wall being shaped to define a preferred routing path or minimum bend radius for the optical fiber or cable. In some embodiments, the S-shaped structure 306 may define one or more tabs extending outwardly from the wall 308 substantially parallel to the base plate 310 and configured to generally hold the optical fiber or cable in place relative to the S-shaped structure 306 .

[0082] In some embodiments, the spool 302 may further define one or more indicators or markings 314 that can be used to guide and properly orient the spool 302 relative to the box base 202 during assembly of the box assembly. To facilitate coupling of the splice tray to the spool 302, in some embodiments, the spool 302 may define at least one of a T-shaped aperture 316 configured to interface with a corresponding portion defined by the splice tray and a deflectable latch finger arrangement 318. To enable the box base 202 to be configured with minimal clearance (e.g., height), in some embodiments, a portion of the bottom plate 310 proximate the splice holder receiving channel 224 may be removed such that, in some embodiments, when the box base 222 is operably coupled to the tray arrangement 110, the top of the bottom plate 310 may be substantially flush with the top 162 of the guide rail 150 positioned within the channel 222.

[0083] refer to Figure 13-16, various embodiments of a splice holder 402 according to embodiments of the present disclosure are shown. In embodiments, the splice holder 402 can be selectively coupled to the spool 302 (e.g., via one or more T-shaped apertures 316, latch finger arrangements 318, and / or dovetail arrangements 408, etc.), thereby enabling the splice holder 402 to be operably coupled to the box base 202. Additional details regarding the interconnection between the splice holder 402 and the spool 302 are disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 11,402,589, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0084] As depicted in the figure, Figure 13 and Figure 14 The exemplary splice holder depicted in may be capable of securing two rows of single fused splices. For example, Figure 13 The splice holder can secure up to twelve single fusion splices. Figure 14 The splice holder secures up to sixteen single fused splices. Figure 15-16 The splice holder of FIG. 1 holds a row of bulk fused splice protectors and can hold up to four splices. In yet another embodiment, the splice holder may include six slots to hold a row of bulk fused splice protectors and can hold up to six splices. The depicted splices are exemplary and should not be considered limiting; other splice holder configurations are also contemplated.

[0085] In embodiments, the spool 302 can be positioned within the box base 202 such that the splice holder 402 is positioned in the splice holder receiving channel 224. In some embodiments, when the box base 222 is operably coupled to the tray assembly 110, the bottom surface 404 of the splice holder 402 can be positioned to and facing the top surface 164 of the guide rail 150, thereby enabling the splice holder 402 to be positioned above the guide rail 150 of the tray assembly 110.

[0086] In embodiments, the splice holder 402 may be configured to hold a plurality of single-fiber splice protectors (e.g., a splice between two single optical fibers, etc.). In other embodiments, the splice holder 402 may be configured to hold a plurality of multi-fiber splice protectors (e.g., a bulk fusion splice). In embodiments, the splice holder 402 may define one or more channels configured to receive splice protectors. For example, as depicted, in some embodiments, the splice holder 402 may define at least four channels, six channels, or eight channels configured to receive and retain splice protectors; however, other numbers of channels are also contemplated.

[0087] refer to Figure 17, depicts a box assembly 500 adapted to be mounted to the guide rails 150 of the tray apparatus 110 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the box assembly 500 can include a box base 202, a cover 250, at least one spool 302, and at least one splice holder 402. In some embodiments, the splice holder 402 can be operably coupled to the spool 302, and the spool can be operably coupled to the box base 202 such that the splice holder 402 is nested within a splice holder receiving channel 224 defined by a portion of the box base 202. In some embodiments, when the box base 222 is operably coupled to the tray apparatus 110, a bottom surface of the splice holder 402 is positioned adjacent to and facing the top surface 164 of the guide rails 150.

[0088] like Figure 18-19 As further depicted in FIG, positioning the splice holder 402 above the guide rails 150 provides greater flexibility in positioning the splice holder 402 within the interior 226 of the box base 202. Specifically, because the splice holder 402 has a fixed depth (D), in the absence of the splice holder receiving channels 224, positioning the splice holder 402 within the interior 226 of the box base 202 would be limited to the area between the channels 222. Embodiments of the present disclosure that include at least one splice holder receiving channel 224 enable the splice holder 402 to be positioned directly above the guide rails 150, thereby enabling a splice holder 402 having an installed width (W) that can span beyond the distance defined between the channels 222, as well as an overall increase in positioning flexibility for the splice holder 402. For example, in some embodiments, the splice holder 402 can be positioned within the interior 226 in a manner that improves the storage and retention of optical fibers or cables routed within the interior 226.

[0089] refer to Figure 20-22 , depicting various configurations of the box assembly 500 according to embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the box assembly 500 may span the distance between the four guide rails 150 of the tray device 110 (e.g., Figure 20 In some embodiments, the box assembly 500 may span the distance between the six rails 150 of the tray device 110 (e.g., Figure 21 ), in some embodiments, the cassette assembly 500 can span the distance between the seven rails 150 of the tray arrangement 110. These disclosed variations are merely representative examples of the proposed embodiments and should not be considered limiting. It is contemplated that the cassette assembly 500 can take any shape or size as desired to substantially increase the use and density of fiber optic transmission equipment.

[0090] refer to Figure 23, depicts a method 600 for routing optical fibers or cables within a cassette assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The following description and figures detail various steps and procedures that may be included in method 600, but it should be understood that the various steps used in the methods of the present teachings may be performed in any order and / or simultaneously, as long as the present teachings remain operable. Furthermore, it should be understood that the apparatus and methods of the present teachings may include any number or all of the described embodiments, as long as the present teachings remain operable.

[0091] In some embodiments, method 600 may involve steps 602 and 604, which involve cutting a first optical fiber or cable, sometimes referred to herein as a "pigtail," into a first predetermined length, and cutting a second optical fiber or cable, sometimes referred to herein as a "feeder," into a second predetermined length, respectively. Figures 24-26 Depending on the configuration of the box assembly 500, the proximal portion 512 of the first optical fiber or cable 510 can be cut to a first predetermined length. For example, in some embodiments, the length of the first optical fiber or cable 510 between the front end 204 of the box base 202 and the proximal portion 512 can be cut to 20.5 inches (e.g., Figure 24 and 26 ) or 22.25 inches (as depicted in Figure 25 ); however, it is also contemplated that the first optical fiber or cable 510 may be cut to other lengths.

[0092] Additionally, the distal portion 516 of the second optical fiber or cable 514 can be cut to a second predetermined length, depending on the configuration of the box assembly 500. For example, in some embodiments, the length of the second optical fiber or cable 514 between the front end 204 of the box base 202 and the distal portion 516 can be cut to 17.25 inches (e.g., Figure 24 and 26 ), 19.5 inches (as depicted in Figure 26 ) and 21 inches (as depicted in Figure 26 ); however, it is also contemplated that the second optical fiber or cable 514 may be cut to other lengths.

[0093] like Figures 27-28 As further depicted in FIG, at step 606, the proximal portion 512 of the first optical fiber or cable 510 can be spliced ​​to the distal portion 516 of the second optical fiber cable 514 by one or more splicing techniques generally known in the art. In some embodiments, a splice protector 518 can be positioned at or around the formed splice during the splicing technique. Figures 29-30 As depicted in FIG. 6 , at step 608 , the splice protector 518 may be positioned in the splice holder 402 .

[0094] Continue to refer Figure 29At step 610, the distal portion 522 of the first optical fiber or cable 510 can be routed from the front end 204 of the box base 202 through the at least one outer ring retaining member 262 to the cable entry 213 positioned at the rear end 206 of the box base 202. As depicted, in some embodiments, routing the first optical fiber or cable 510 in this manner has the effect of axially aligning a portion of the first optical fiber or cable 510 with the second optical fiber or cable 514. Specifically, while the optical fibers or cables may not be axially aligned in the sense that signals pass through the cables (e.g., the optical fibers or cables may be oriented 180° relative to each other), routing in this manner enables the first optical fiber or cable 510 to be positioned on the inner diameter of the second optical fiber or cable 514, thereby reducing or avoiding the need to cross the first optical fiber or cable 510 with the second optical fiber or cable 514 in order to properly stow excess cable within the interior 226 of the box assembly 500.

[0095] Additional references Figures 31-32 At step 612, the stub holder 402 can be positioned within the spool 302. For example, in some embodiments, either the stub holder 402 and / or the spool 302 can define a T-shaped aperture 316 and a deflectable latch finger 318 arrangement configured to facilitate coupling the stub holder 402 to the spool 302. Other latching and / or interference couplings are also contemplated. In some embodiments, the presence of one or more markings 314 on either or both the stub holder 402 or the spool 302 can facilitate proper orientation of the stub holder 402 relative to the spool 302, as well as proper orientation of the spool 302 relative to the case base 202.

[0096] Additional references Figures 33-36 At step 614, a portion (e.g., the proximal portion 512) of the first optical fiber or cable 510 can be routed through the S-shaped structure 306 defined by the spool 302. In some embodiments, routing the first optical fiber or cable 510 through the S-shaped structure 306 has the effect of reversing the direction of the first optical fiber or cable 510, thereby axially aligning the proximal portion 512 of the first optical fiber or cable 510 with the distal portion 516 of the second optical fiber or cable 514.

[0097] Continue to refer Figures 33-34 At step 616, the aligned intermediate portions 524 of the first optical fiber or cable 510 and the second optical fiber or cable 514 can be routed through at least one outer ring retaining member 262 to form a first outer ring, and through at least one inner ring retaining member 264 to form a second inner ring positioned on the inner diameter of the first outer ring.

[0098] refer to Figures 35-36, at step 618, the bobbin 302 can be positioned within the box base 202. For example, in some embodiments, one or more posts 252 defined by either the box base 202 or the bobbin 302 can be received within one or more receptacles 304 defined by either the box base 202 or the bobbin 302. As depicted, the one or more posts 252 are defined by the box base 202 and the one or more receptacles 304 are defined by the bobbin 302, but this configuration can be reversed to establish a friction-based interference fit between the box base 202 and the bobbin 302.

[0099] Figure 37 A schematic diagram of the routing of optical fibers or cables within an exemplary enclosure assembly 500 is depicted. As depicted, none of the optical fibers or cables cross over one another, which results in a significant space savings within the interior 226 of the enclosure assembly 500. This is particularly true when the optical fibers or cables are in the form of ribbons, which are preferably arranged in a coiled configuration such as Figures 38-40 Thereafter, the cover 250 can be attached to the box base 202. In an embodiment, the cover 250 can define one or more tabs 253 and latch members 254 configured to engage with portions of the box base 202, thereby enabling the cover 250 to be selectively coupled and decoupled from the box base 202.

[0100] Having described preferred aspects and implementations of the present disclosure, modifications and equivalents of the disclosed concepts may readily occur 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 box assembly, adapted to be mounted on a guide rail of a tray device, the box assembly comprising: a box base defining a channel extending at least partially along a length of the box base, the channel positioned mid-width between the first and second sides of the box and sized to receive the rails of the tray arrangement so that the box base can extend over the rails of the tray arrangement, the channel defining a stub holder receiving channel having the effect of exposing a top surface of the rails of the tray arrangement to an interior of the box base; a spool selectively coupleable to the box base, the spool defining one or more fiber management features to facilitate routing optical fibers or cables within the interior of the box base; A stub holder is selectively connectable to the spool and positionable within the stub holder receiving channel defined by the box base, wherein a bottom surface of the stub holder is positioned adjacent to and facing the top of the guide rail of the tray device so that the stub holder can be positioned above the guide rail of the tray device. 2 . The cartridge assembly of claim 1 , further comprising a cover selectively coupleable to the cartridge base to at least partially enclose an interior of the cartridge base.

3. The cartridge assembly of claim 1 , wherein the stub holder is selectively secured to the spool by a T-shaped aperture and a deflectable latch finger arrangement.

4. The box assembly of claim 1 , wherein the box base defines one or more posts configured to be received in one or more receptacles defined by the spool to selectively secure the spool to the box base via an interference fit connection.

5. The cartridge assembly of claim 1, wherein the cartridge base defines a plurality of port member receiving apertures at a front portion of the cartridge base.

6. The cassette assembly of claim 5, wherein the cassette base defines at least one of three port member receiving apertures, four port member receiving apertures, or six port member receiving apertures at a front of the cassette base.

7. The box assembly of claim 5 , wherein the box base defines a structure configured to enable routing of a first optical fiber or cable from one of the plurality of port member receiving apertures at the front of the box base to an area of ​​the box base configured to receive a splice holder.

8. The box assembly of claim 7 , wherein the box base defines at least one outer ring retaining member and at least one inner ring retaining member, the at least one outer ring retaining member being configured to receive a first outer ring of the first optical fiber or cable when the first optical fiber or cable traverses from one of the plurality of port member receiving apertures at the front of the box base to an area of ​​the box base configured to receive a splice holder, and the at least one inner ring retaining member being configured to receive a second inner ring of the first optical fiber or cable when the first optical fiber or cable traverses from one of the plurality of port member receiving apertures at the front of the box base to an area of ​​the box base configured to receive a splice holder.

9. The box assembly of claim 8, wherein the spool defines an S-shaped structure configured to enable routing of the first optical fiber or cable from one of the plurality of port member receiving apertures at the front of the box base to an area of ​​the box base configured to receive a splice holder.

10. The enclosure assembly of claim 1, wherein the enclosure base defines a cable entry at a rear portion of the enclosure base.

11. The box assembly of claim 10, wherein the box base defines structure configured to enable routing of a second optical fiber or cable from the cable entry at the rear of the box base to an area of ​​the box base configured to receive a splice holder.

12. A box assembly comprising: a box base adapted to be mounted to a rail of a tray arrangement, the box base defining a port member receiving aperture at a front portion of the box base, a cable entry at a rear portion of the box base, and an area of ​​the box base configured to receive a splice holder, wherein the box base defines one or more first structures configured to enable routing of a first optical fiber or cable from the port member receiving aperture at the front portion of the box base to the area of ​​the box base configured to receive the splice holder; and one or more second structures that enable routing of a second optical fiber or cable from the cable entry at the rear of the box base to an area of ​​the box base configured to receive a splice holder; as well as A spool is connectable to the box base, the spool defining an S-shaped structure configured to enable routing of the first optical fiber or cable from the port member receiving aperture at the front of the box base to an area of ​​the box base configured to receive a splice holder.

13. The cassette assembly of claim 12, wherein the cassette base defines at least one of three port member receiving apertures, four port member receiving apertures, or six port member receiving apertures at a front of the cassette base.

14. The box assembly of claim 12 , wherein the box base defines at least one outer ring retaining member and at least one inner ring retaining member, the at least one outer ring retaining member being configured to receive a first outer ring of the first optical fiber or cable when the first optical fiber or cable traverses from the port member receiving aperture at the front of the box base to an area of ​​the box base configured to receive a splice holder, and the at least one inner ring retaining member being configured to receive a second inner ring of the first optical fiber or cable when the first optical fiber or cable traverses from the port member receiving aperture at the front of the box base to an area of ​​the box base configured to receive a splice holder.

15. The box assembly of claim 12 , wherein the box base defines at least one outer ring retaining member configured to receive a first outer ring of the second optical fiber or cable as the second optical fiber or cable traverses from the cable entry at the rear of the box to an area of ​​the box base configured to receive a splice retainer, and at least one inner ring retaining member configured to receive a second inner ring of the second optical fiber or cable as the second optical fiber or cable traverses from the cable entry at the rear of the box to an area of ​​the box base configured to receive a splice retainer.

16. The box assembly according to claim 12 further includes a stub holder, which can be selectively connected to the spool and can be positioned within a stub holder receiving channel defined by the box base, wherein the bottom surface of the stub holder is positioned adjacent to and facing the top of the guide rail of the tray device so that the stub holder can be directly positioned above the guide rail of the tray device.

17. The cartridge assembly of claim 12, wherein the stub holder is selectively secured to the spool by a T-shaped aperture and a deflectable latch finger arrangement.

18. The case assembly of claim 12, wherein the case base defines one or more posts configured to be received in one or more receptacles defined by the spool to selectively secure the spool to the case base via an interference fit connection.

19. The cartridge assembly of claim 12, further comprising a cover selectively coupleable to the cartridge base to at least partially enclose an interior of the cartridge base.

20. A method of routing a first optical fiber or cable and a second optical fiber or cable within a cassette assembly, the method comprising: cutting a proximal portion of the first optical fiber or cable into a first predetermined length; cutting the distal portion of the second optical fiber or cable into a second predetermined length; splicing the proximal portion of the first optical fiber or cable to the distal portion of the second optical fiber or cable using a splice; positioning the splice within a splice holder; routing a distal portion of the first optical fiber or cable from a port member receiving aperture defined at a front portion of a box base through at least one outer ring retaining member to a cable entry defined at a rear portion of the box base, wherein routing the distal portion of the first optical fiber or cable from the port member receiving aperture to the cable entry at the rear portion of the box base has the effect of aligning the distal portion of the first optical fiber or cable with the proximal portion of the second optical fiber or cable; positioning the splice retainer within the spool; routing a proximal portion of the first optical fiber or cable through an S-shaped structure defined by the spool, the routing having the effect of aligning the proximal portion of the first optical fiber or cable with the distal portion of the second optical fiber or cable; routing the aligned intermediate portions of the first and second optical fibers or cables through at least one outer ring retaining member configured to receive the aligned intermediate portions of the first and second optical fibers or cables and through at least one inner ring retaining member configured to receive the aligned intermediate portions of the first and second optical fibers or cables; and The spool is positioned within the box base.

21. A box assembly adapted to be mounted on a guide rail of a tray device, the box assembly comprising: a box base defining a channel extending at least partially along a length of the box base, the channel positioned mid-width between the first and second sides of the box and sized to receive the rails of the tray arrangement so that the box base can extend over the rails of the tray arrangement; a spool selectively coupleable to the box base, the spool defining one or more fiber management features to facilitate routing optical fibers or cables within the interior of the box base; a stub holder selectively coupleable to the spool on a top surface of the spool; wherein the bottom surface of the spool is positioned above the guide rails of the tray arrangement.

22. The box assembly of claim 21 , wherein the spool defines an S-shaped structure configured to enable routing of a first optical fiber or cable from one of a plurality of port member receiving apertures at a front portion of the box base to an area of ​​the box base configured to receive the spool.

23. The enclosure assembly of claim 21, wherein the enclosure base defines a cable entry at a rear portion of the enclosure base.

24. The box assembly of claim 21, wherein the box base defines structure configured to enable routing of a second optical fiber or cable from the cable entry at the rear of the box base to an area of ​​the box base configured to receive the spool.

25. A cable and box assembly comprising: a box base adapted to be mounted to a rail of a tray arrangement, the box base defining a port member receiving aperture at a front portion of the box base, a cable entry at a rear portion of the box base, and an area of ​​the box base configured to receive a spool, wherein the box base defines one or more first structures configured to enable routing of a first optical fiber or cable from the port member receiving aperture at the front portion of the box base to the area of ​​the box base configured to receive a spool; and one or more second structures that enable routing of a second optical fiber or cable from the cable entry at the rear of the box base to an area of ​​the box base configured to receive a spool; as well as a spool coupled to the box base, the spool defining an S-shaped structure configured to enable routing of the first optical fiber or cable from the port member receiving aperture at the front of the box base to an area of ​​the box base configured to receive the spool; a stub holder coupled to the spool on a top surface of the spool; Wherein at least a portion of a bottom surface of the spool is positioned above the guide rails of the tray arrangement.

26. A method of routing a first optical fiber or cable and a second optical fiber or cable within a cassette assembly, the method comprising: providing a proximal portion of said first optical fiber or cable having a first predetermined length relative to the box base; providing a distal portion of said second optical fiber or cable having a second predetermined length relative to said box base; splicing the proximal portion of the first optical fiber or cable to the distal portion of the second optical fiber or cable using a splice; positioning the splice within a splice holder; positioning the splice retainer on the spool; routing a proximal portion of the first optical fiber or cable through an S-shaped structure defined by the spool, the routing having the effect of aligning the proximal portion of the first optical fiber or cable with the distal portion of the second optical fiber or cable; routing aligned intermediate portions of the first and second optical fibers or cables through at least one loop retaining member configured to receive a first loop of aligned intermediate portions of the first and second optical fibers or cables; as well as The spool is positioned within the box base.

27. The method according to claim 26, further comprising: The distal portion of the first optical fiber or cable is routed from a port member receiving aperture defined at the front of the box base through at least one ring retaining member to a cable entry defined at the rear of the box base, wherein the second optical fiber or cable enters the box base at the cable entry, and wherein routing the distal portion of the first optical fiber or cable from the port member receiving aperture to the cable entry at the rear of the box base has the effect of aligning the distal portion of the first optical fiber or cable with the proximal portion of the second optical fiber or cable.

Images