Fiber optic splice closure

Abstract

The present disclosure provides embodiments of a fiber optic cable enclosure assembly comprising a housing having an open end, an end plate assembly for sealing the open end, the end plate assembly comprising at least one fiber optic cable receiving port, the at least one fiber optic cable receiving port comprising: a first cable receiving port cartridge, at least one part of the end plate assembly is integrally formed with the end plate assembly; a second cable receiving port box pivotable relative to the first cable receiving port box between at least a first position and a second position; and a latch member operably associated with the second cable receiving port cartridge for selectively securing the first cable receiving port cartridge to the second cable receiving port cartridge. In the first position, the first cable receiving port box and the second cable receiving port box allow the cable to be positioned between the first cable receiving port box and the second cable receiving port box, and in the second position, the cable is positioned between the first cable receiving port box and the second cable receiving port box. The first cable receiving port box and the second cable receiving port box form a sealed enclosure around a cable positioned between the first cable receiving port box and the second cable receiving port box.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application is based on and claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 448,900, filed on February 28, 2023, entitled "Fiber Optic Splice Closures," the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure generally relates to connector closures. More specifically, this disclosure relates to fiber optic connector closures. Background Technology

[0004] As the demand for greater bandwidth and faster data transmission rates for voice, video, and data services increases, so too does the need for ever-faster communication. Generally, the speed of communication between any two or more points is limited by the slowest link. Optical fibers allow for the transmission of massive amounts of data at near the speed of light. Optical fibers are typically made of glass or plastic and can be roughly the diameter of a human hair. Fiber optic cables containing optical fibers can stretch for miles. Typically, splicing fibers is required to add additional lines, adding cable branches, and repairing damaged optical fibers.

[0005] While fiber optic cables are generally robust and durable, individual optical fibers remain fragile. Care must be taken during the splicing process when splicing optical fibers. After splicing is complete, the joints must be protected from environmental factors. This can be challenging, especially when the joints are in uncontrolled environments where they may be subject to significant temperature fluctuations, water, snow, etc. In such uncontrolled environments, weatherproof joint housings exist to house the fiber optic joints. To ensure the joints are protected, these weatherproof housings are typically made both airtight and watertight.

[0006] While existing weatherproof enclosures are suitable and offer excellent protection for fiber optic connectors, they typically require tools such as wrenches and sockets to open and close. There is a need for a connector enclosure that does not require such tools, allows for easy opening and closing, and still provides an airtight and watertight space for the fiber optic connector. Furthermore, existing weatherproof enclosures are often "one-size-fits-all" because they typically only accept fiber optic cables with a specific set diameter. There is a need for a waterproof connector enclosure that includes a replaceable housing to allow for easy modification of the port used to receive fiber optic cables and to accommodate cables of various diameters. The replaceable housing also allows for easy replacement of damaged ports with ports capable of accepting fiber optic cables of the same diameter. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The present disclosure provides embodiments of a fiber optic cable closure assembly including a housing having an open end, an end plate assembly for sealing the open end, the end plate assembly including at least one fiber optic cable receiving port, the at least one fiber optic cable receiving port including: a first cable receiving port box at least a portion of which is integrally formed with the end plate assembly; a second cable receiving port box pivotable relative to the first cable receiving port box between at least a first position and a second position; and a latching member operably associated with the second cable receiving port box to selectively secure the first cable receiving port box to the second cable receiving port box. In the first position, the first cable receiving port box and the second cable receiving port box allow a cable to be positioned between the first cable receiving port box and the second cable receiving port box, and in the second position, the first cable receiving port box and the second cable receiving port box form a sealed enclosure about the cable positioned between the first cable receiving port box and the second cable receiving port box.

[0008] In another exemplary embodiment, a fiber optic cable closure includes a first cable receiving port box including a first pliable gel pad, at least a portion of the first cable receiving port box being integrally formed with the fiber optic cable closure, and a second cable receiving port box including a second pliable gel pad, the second cable receiving port box being movable relative to the first cable receiving port box between at least a first position and a second position. In the first position, the first cable receiving port box and the second cable receiving port box allow a cable to be positioned between the first pliable gel pad and the second pliable gel pad, and in the second position, the first pliable gel pad and the second pliable gel pad form a sealed enclosure about the cable. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0009] The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding only, will illustrate the embodiments and together with the description given below, enable those skilled in the art to carry out the principles of the claimed subject matter. In the drawings:

[0010] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a splice closure assembly in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0011] Figure 2 is an exploded view showing the contents of a splice closure assembly in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0012] Figure 3 is a side view of a splice closure assembly in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0013] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a splice closure in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 4-4 of the splice closure depicted in

[0014] Figure 5 is a perspective view of a housing assembly according to illustrative embodiments of the present disclosure, depicting contents of a joint closure;

[0015] Figure 6 is an exploded view of a housing assembly according to illustrative embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0016] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of a joint closure taken along line 7-7 in Figure 3

[0017] Figure 7A is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a water and air tight closure according to illustrative embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0018] Figure 8 is an enlarged view of a portion of an end plate forming a portion of the housing assembly depicted in Figure 6

[0019] Figure 9 is an exploded view of a housing assembly according to illustrative embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0020] Figure 10 is an enlarged view of a portion of the housing assembly depicted in Figure 9

[0021] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the housing assembly depicted in Figure 10

[0022] Figure 11A is a rear perspective view of a portion of the housing assembly depicted in Figure 10

[0023] Figure 12 is a perspective view of a removable external receiving port assembly according to illustrative embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0024] Figure 13 is a bottom view of a removable external receiving port assembly according to illustrative embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0025] Figure 14 is a rear perspective view of a removable external receiving port assembly according to illustrative embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0026] Figure 15 is a perspective view of a ratchet latching member according to illustrative embodiments of the present disclosure; ​​​​​

[0027] Figure 16 is a perspective view showing attachment of a ratchet latch member to a removable external receiving port assembly according to an illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0028] Figure 17 is a perspective view showing a ratchet latch member attached to a removable external receiving port assembly according to an illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0029] Figure 18 is a perspective view showing attachment of a removable external receiving port assembly to an integral internal receiving port assembly with a fiber optic cable therebetween according to an illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0030] Figure 19 is a perspective view showing attachment of a removable external receiving port assembly to an integral internal receiving port assembly with a fiber optic cable therebetween according to an illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0031] Figure 20 is a perspective view showing a removable external receiving port assembly coupled to an integral internal receiving port assembly with a fiber optic cable therebetween according to an illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0032] Figure 21 is a rear view showing a removable external receiving port assembly coupled to an integral internal receiving port assembly with a fiber optic cable therebetween according to an illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0033] Figure 22 is a perspective view of a fiber optic splice tray according to an illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0034] Figure 23 is a perspective view of a base portion of a fiber optic splice tray according to an illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0035] Figure 24 is a perspective view of a cover portion of a fiber optic splice tray according to an illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0036] Figure 25 is a side view of a fiber optic splice tray attached to a riser according to an illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0037] Figure 26A and Figure 26B are front and rear perspective views of an end plate assembly according to another illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0038] Figure 27 is a front view of an end plate assembly according to an illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure, depicting components forming a cable receiving port;

[0039] Figure 28 This is an exploded view of the internal gel pad assembly according to an illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0040] Figure 29 This is an assembly view of the internal gel pad assembly according to an illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0041] Figure 30 This is an enlarged perspective front view of the internal receiving port assembly according to an illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0042] Figure 31 This is an enlarged perspective rear view of the internal receiving port assembly according to an illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0043] Figure 32 This is an exploded view of a removable external receiver port assembly box according to an illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0044] Figure 33 This is an illustrative embodiment based on the present disclosure. Figure 32 Top perspective view of the main body of the removable external receiver port component box;

[0045] Figure 34 This is an illustrative embodiment based on the present disclosure. Figure 33 Lower perspective view of the main body of the removable external receiver port component box;

[0046] Figure 35 It is formed according to the illustrative embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 32 A perspective rear view of a compressed component of a removable external receiver port assembly box;

[0047] Figure 36 It is formed according to the illustrative embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 32 Rear perspective view of the gel pad component, which is part of the removable external receiver port assembly box;

[0048] Figure 37 It is formed according to the illustrative embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 32 Front perspective view of the gel pad component, which is part of the removable external receiver port assembly box;

[0049] Figure 38 This is an illustrative embodiment based on the present disclosure. Figure 32 A partial exploded view of the removable external receiver port assembly box shows the components forming a locking mechanism for locking the removable external receiver port assembly box in the endplate assembly;

[0050] Figure 39A-39C This is for describing illustrative embodiments according to this disclosure. Figure 38A view depicting the operation of the locking mechanism;

[0051] Figure 40 This is a perspective view of a removable external receiver port assembly box in an uncompressed state according to an illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0052] Figure 41 This is a perspective view of a removable external receiver port assembly box in a compressed state according to an illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0053] Figure 42 It is along Figure 41 The cross-sectional view taken by line 42-42 shows the expansion of the gel pad member in a compressed state according to an illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0054] Figure 43A , Figure 43B This is a view of a locking collar according to an illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0055] Figure 44 This is a perspective view of a strength member for securing an optical fiber cable according to an illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0056] Figure 45 This is a perspective view of a fiber optic connector tray according to an illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0057] Figure 46 This is a rear perspective view of a fiber optic connector tray connected to a riser according to an illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0058] Figure 47 This is a front perspective view of a fiber optic connector tray connected to a riser according to an illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0059] The present disclosure provides embodiments of a closure assembly for housing spliced optical fibers in a sealed, waterproof, and airtight space. The closure assembly is capable of receiving a plurality of fiber optic cables, each having one or more, in most cases, a number of individual optical fibers. There are various types of fiber optic cables, and the closure assembly according to illustrative embodiments of the present disclosure is not limited to any particular type of fiber optic cable. It will be understood from the present disclosure that aspects of the mechanism for holding the fiber optic cables within the closure assembly can vary depending on the type of fiber optic cable, and more specifically, depending on the type or types of strength members associated with the particular fiber optic cable. Strength members are commonly used within fiber optic cables to impart some additional rigidity to the cable, and can be formed of, for example, one or more glass fibers or metal rods. The individual fiber strands within the fiber optic cable are typically housed in a buffer tube, which provides several benefits including, for example, mechanical isolation, protection from physical damage, and fiber identification.

[0060] The components forming one or more ports (allowing the fiber optic cables to pass into the closure assembly) can be in the form of one or more removable cartridges, thus allowing the size of the one or more ports of the closure assembly to be readily modified to receive fiber optic cables of various sizes or diameters. The removable cartridges are removable from a portion of the closure assembly housing, and can include a locking mechanism for locking the removable cartridges to the housing. The removable cartridge(s) form an airtight and watertight seal around the fiber optic cables. The closure assembly according to illustrative embodiments of the present disclosure is capable of simultaneously receiving one or more different types of fiber optic cables, forming an airtight, watertight seal around each of the fiber optic cables. The distal end of the fiber optic cable to be housed within the closure assembly can have one or more outer protective layers stripped away, allowing access to the individual optical fibers or strands. The individual optical fibers can be spliced using any known method, including, for example, fusion or mechanical connectors. The splices can then be neatly organized in any of a plurality of splice trays, which are capable of being neatly arranged in a stacked arrangement within the closure assembly. For ease of description, the splicing connections, whether by fusion or mechanical connectors, can be referred to generally as singular “splice” and plural “splices.” The host fiber optic cable holding a plurality of individual fiber strands or strands can be referred to as singular “fiber optic cable” or “cable” and plural “fiber optic cables” or “cables.” The individual optical fibers or fiber strands can also be referred to generally as singular “fiber” or “strands” and plural “fibers” or “strands.” Illustrative embodiments of the present disclosure refer to the terms “gel” or “gel pad.” These terms can encompass any of a variety of semi-rigid materials that are substantially pliable or flexible and are capable of being compressed and assuming a compressed shape.

[0061] The present disclosure also provides embodiments of a splice tray configured to hold spliced fibers in a neat and efficient manner. Multiple splice trays can be provided and arranged in a stacked configuration while allowing easy access to any one of the splice trays in the stack. The splice tray can include a bottom portion on which the optical fiber and splices can be arranged, and a removable cover for covering the bottom portion that houses the splices. The removable cover can be pivotally opened to an open position on the bottom portion while allowing the cover to be easily removed from the bottom portion as needed.

[0062] A splice closure assembly according to an illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure is shown in Figure 1 and can be referred to as assembly 100. Assembly 100 includes a housing or closure 102. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, housing 102 can be sealed to help barrier moisture and / or other contaminants that can be harmful to the contents of the housing. An air valve (not shown) can be provided, allowing the housing 102 to be pressurized for flash testing purposes. Housing 102 can be formed of any suitable type of material that is strong, water impermeable, non-biodegradable, durable, and rigid. Non-limiting examples of suitable types of materials include high-impact plastic. Materials including polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and / or polycarbonate can be used, as can polypropylene, either alone or in combination with one or more reinforcing materials such as additive-filled polypropylene, as appropriate to form various aspects of the present disclosure. Suitable reinforcing materials can include glass fibers, carbon fibers, and the like.

[0063] Housing 102 can include a plurality of circumferential and longitudinal ribs 120, 122 that extend around the periphery, providing additional strength and rigidity to the housing 102. Housing 102 includes a first end 116 and a second end 118. As shown, the first end 116 of the housing 102 is closed. The second end 118 of the housing 102 is generally open, but can also be closed by a removable end cap (not shown). Figure 2 and Figure 2 The end plate assembly 112, gasket 106, and seal collar 108 depicted in A are sealed. The seal collar 108 includes a clamping mechanism 109. According to this illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure, and as will be described in further detail below, the end plate assembly 112 includes at least one cable receiving port capable of receiving a main optical fiber cable. In the illustrative embodiment described herein, eight (8) such cable receiving ports are provided in the end plate assembly 112, such that up to eight (8) optical fiber cables can be received in the splice closure assembly 100. Each optical fiber cable can include a plurality of optical fiber strands. Each cable receiving port forms an air-tight, water-tight seal around the optical fiber cable.

[0064] The end plate assembly 112 forms a portion of the housing assembly 104, which also includes a splice tray holding assembly 110 for holding one or more splice trays 114, each of which is capable of holding one or more fiber optic splices and optical fiber slack in a neat, efficient, and protected manner. In accordance with the illustrative embodiments of the present disclosure described below, the splice tray holding assembly 110 is designed to removably hold up to twelve (12) splice trays 114. Of course, the splice tray holding assembly 110 can readily be designed to hold any desired number of splice trays 114. The splice tray holding assembly 110 is attached to the end plate assembly 112 by an S-shaped arm member 128. A pair of flanges 124, 126 are provided around the periphery of the housing 102 at the second end 118. The flanges 124, 126 provide additional rigidity and support to the opening formed at the second end 118. As will be described later, the flange 126 forms a portion of a sealed housing for sealing the second end 118 of the housing 102 with the end plate assembly 112, the gasket 106, and the seal collar 108. As shown in Figure 1 and Figure 2 The cross-section of the housing 102 is generally rectangular as depicted in

[0065] As shown in Figure 3 The top 107 and bottom 109 surfaces of the housing 102 are generally straight and can be slightly tapered from the second end 118 toward the first end 116. It will be understood that the top 107 and / or bottom 109 surfaces of the housing 102 can include a slight outward curvature or, preferably, a slight inward curvature forming a pre-load structure to compensate for any outward bending forces that can occur when the housing 102 is pressurized.

[0066] As shown in the cross-section in Figure 4 The housing assembly 104 is neatly installed within the housing 102 and extends substantially the entire length of the housing. The lower plate 111 of the tray holding assembly 110 extends from and is supported by the end plate assembly 112 via an inverted generally “S-shaped” arm member 128. The lower plate 111 can rest on the lower interior surface of the housing 102 or the S-shaped arm member 128 can hold the lower plate 111 in place just above the bottom surface of the housing 102. A plurality of strength members 132 extend inwardly from the end plate assembly 112 into the gap formed between the end plate assembly 112 and the tray holding assembly 110. In accordance with the illustrative embodiments of the present disclosure, eight (8) strength members 132 are provided, one for each fiber optic cable receiving port. Each strength member 132 can include a clamping member 134 for securing one or more strength member cables within the fiber optic cable, which will be described in greater detail below.

[0067] Although Figure 4 not shown in the Figure 5 depicted in the Figure 5 depicted in the Figure 6 depicted in the

[0068] As Figure 6 and Figure 7 depicted in the Figure 7The lower plate 111 and tray 114 extend slightly outward and can contact the inner surface of the side portion 102A of the housing 102, thereby providing support and restricting movement of the lower plate 111 and the tray 114. It will be understood that each arcuate band member 140 may have a different longitudinal cross-section from the side portion of the housing 102 and / or from each other, provided that each arcuate band member 148 is sized and shaped not to extend beyond the contour that would impede easy sliding of the tray retaining assembly 110 into the housing 102. At least one rear band member 149 may be provided, extending from the rear portion of the lower plate 111 to be positioned closest to the first surface 116 of the housing 102. As shown, the rear band member 149 extends arcuately from the lower plate 111 to a straight portion, substantially matching the adjacent inner surface of the rear or first end 116 of the housing 102. It will be understood that the rear band member 149 may be designed to extend differently, provided that the rear band member 140 does not interfere with easy sliding into the tray retaining assembly 110 into the housing 102. Each strap member 148, 149 includes one or more holes or slots 151 extending therethrough. A strap (not shown) may be attached between members 148, 149 as needed using the holes or slots 151 to further secure the tray 114 in place.

[0069] like Figure 7 and Figure 7A As depicted, the sealing collar 108 includes a generally U-shaped first portion 108A and a generally U-shaped second portion 108B, which are connected at their distal ends by a hinge member 108C. The first portion 108A and the second portion 108B have a generally U-shaped cross-section. A clamping mechanism 109 is configured to removably connect the first portion 108A and the second portion 108B at their proximal ends. Non-limiting examples of the clamping mechanism may include a pull-out type clamping mechanism. (See enlarged cross-sectional view.) Figure 7A As shown, groove 126A is provided around the front surface of flange 126 of housing 102. Groove 126A is sized to receive sealing gasket 106, which abuts the rear surface of end plate assembly 112. When clamping mechanism 109 is tightened, housing 102 is sealed, thereby providing an airtight and watertight seal.

[0070] like Figure 6As shown, an inverted "S-shaped" arm member 128 extending from a lower plate 111 is connected to an end plate assembly 112 via a platform bracket 158. The platform bracket 158 ​​includes a plurality of recessed receiving portions 162 extending from a rear plate 160 of the platform bracket 158 ​​to receive corresponding supports 168 extending from an inner surface of an end plate 250 of the end plate assembly 112. Each support 168 may include a threaded drill hole 169 extending at least partially longitudinally through it. The platform bracket 158 ​​may be attached to the plate 250 using a screw (not shown) extending through the receiving portion 162 and into a threaded drill hole located at an end of the support 168. A protrusion 159 extends substantially at a right angle from the rear plate 160 of the bracket 158 ​​and includes a slotted aperture 166 extending through at least a portion thereof. The slotted aperture 166 is sized to receive the distal end portion 154 of the "S-shaped" arm member 128. The protrusion 159 includes a hole 164 extending laterally through it, which is positioned and sized to correspond to a hole 156 extending laterally through the distal end portion of the "S-shaped" arm member 128. Collar bolts and cotter pins (not shown) can be used to attach the S-shaped member 128 to the platform support 158 ​​using the holes 164, 156.

[0071] Although for the sake of clarity, Figure 6 Only one is shown, but multiple threaded grounding rod assemblies 170 and corresponding strength members 132 may be provided. More specifically, the threaded grounding rod assemblies 170 and corresponding strength members 132 are provided for each of the corresponding eight (8) cable receiving ports and are used to support and secure the fiber optic cables. The distal end 172 of the threaded grounding rod assembly 170 passes through an aperture 252 that extends through an end plate 250 (see, for example, [reference needed]). Figure 8 ).like Figure 9 , Figure 9 As further shown in A, the distal end 172 of each grounding rod assembly 170 extends through to the front of the end plate 250. One or more of the distal ends 172 of the grounding rods 170 can be interconnected. For example, as... Figure 9 As shown, one or more conductive plates 257 may be configured to interconnect each of two or more grounding rod assemblies 170, which in this exemplary embodiment are eight (8), passing through end plate 250. Nuts 174 may be attached to the threaded distal end 172 of the grounding rod assembly 170 to secure the grounding rod assembly 170 and plates 257 to end plate 250. Holes 20 may be provided in end plate 250 for receiving air valves (not shown) to allow air pressure to be applied to housing 102 and for flash testing after housing is sealed.

[0072] Back Figure 6threaded grounding rod assembly 170 from the end plate 250 and through a hole 178 in a support arm 179 extending from the strength member 132. A nut 174 can then be used to secure the proximal end 176 of the threaded grounding rod assembly 170 to the support arm 179 so that the strength member 132 is positioned and extends generally at a right angle relative to the end plate 250 and positioned below the corresponding cable receiving port area 196 (see, e.g., Figure 8 ). As shown in Figure 6 , each strength member 132 includes a substantially flat proximal end 188 that is received in a corresponding notch 194 formed in the rear surface of the plate 250 (see, e.g., Figure 8 ) adjacent to the aperture 252 through which the distal end 172 of the threaded grounding rod 170 extends. The flat proximal end 188 of the strength member 132 extends to the arcuate plate 182 on which the fiber optic cable will rest and be clamped by the clamp 134 using the screw member 180. The clamp 134 and screw member 180 can be a hose clamp with a portion of the screw member 180 (e.g., a worm gear portion) integrated into the strength member 132 or can be a separate removable hose clamp for clamping the fiber optic cable to the strength member 132. The distal end 186 of the strength member 132 includes an aperture 184 that is capable of receiving a bolt and washer for attaching a strength member cable disposed in the fiber optic cable to the strength member 132. The aperture 184 can be threaded to receive a corresponding threaded bolt (not shown). Alternatively, the underside of the strength member 132 below the aperture 184 can include an integrated nut receiving portion 186 for receiving a nut that engages with the bolt extending through the aperture 184. The nut receiving portion 186 allows the bolt extending through the aperture 184 to be tightened without the need to apply a separate wrench to the nut when tightening the bolt.

[0073] As shown in Figure 9As depicted, the endplate 250 is generally rectangular in shape, but can also have different shapes, such as oval, elliptical, etc. The endplate 250 has multiple cable receiving ports 152, each capable of receiving a main fiber optic cable. In this illustrative embodiment, eight (8) such cable receiving port areas are provided, allowing up to eight (8) main fiber optic cables to be received in the connector closure assembly 100. Of course, the design and dimensions of the endplate 250 can be modified to provide more or fewer cable receiving ports as needed. Each cable receiving port 152 is formed by an integrated internal receiving port assembly 202 and a removable external receiving port assembly or housing 200, which is received and sealed to the integrated internal receiving port assembly 202. As described later below, the integrated internal receiving port assembly 202 includes a removable and replaceable gel pad member or housing 198. Each cable receiving port 152 is capable of receiving and holding a main fiber optic cable and providing a watertight and airtight seal around the main fiber optic cable. For example, each integrated internal receiver port assembly 202 holds a first gel member 198, and each removable external receiver port assembly or housing 200 holds a second gel member 199. When the main fiber optic cable is placed between the internal receiver port assembly 202 and the external receiver port assembly 200 and the external receiver port assembly or housing 200 is locked in place to form the cable receiver port 152, the first gel member 198 and the second gel member 199 form a watertight and airtight seal around the main fiber optic cable.

[0074] like Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, the integrated internal receiver port assembly 202 includes a semi-circular opening surface 302 and side posts 304. The semi-circular opening surface 302 may have a diameter approximately the same as or slightly larger than the diameter of the optical fiber cable to be received in the cable receiver port, and may be tapered. For example, the diameter of the outer edge 302a of the surface 302 may be larger than the diameter of the inner edge 302b of the surface 302. One or more flexible teeth or tips 306 extend from the upper inner edge 302b of the semi-circular opening surface 302 and abut against the gel member 198. The first gel member 198 is generally rectangular in shape and is sized to fit snugly within the sidewall 316 of the integrated internal receiver port assembly 202 and rests on a platform 314 extending from the inner surface of the end plate 250 (e.g., see...). Figure 11). The longitudinal semi-circular conical portion of the gel member 198 adjacent the semi-circular open surface 302 is missing or removed from the top 319 of the gel member 198, forming a semi-conical surface 308. The flexible teeth or prongs 306 are shaped and sized so that they are adjacent to and can rest on the conical surface 308, and can even extend through a portion 310 of the gel member 198, as shown. Alternatively, some or all of the teeth or prongs 306 can be fully embedded within the gel member 198. The side uprights 304 include a raised lip 312 that mates with a corresponding groove in the portion of the removable outer receiving port assembly 200, providing a water-tight and air-tight seal, as will be described in greater detail later. A slot 317 is provided in the side wall 316 and extends generally parallel to the upper surface 319 of the gel member 198, as shown (see also Figure 11A ). The slots 335 are provided on each side of the open surface 302 and, as will be described later, include hook members (see, for example, Figure 19 , hook members 337) for attaching the removable outer receiving port assembly 200 to the integral inner receiving port assembly 202. As shown in Figure 11A , the rear portion of the integral inner receiving port assembly 202 includes slots 315 in both sides of the platform 314.

[0075] The removable outer receiving port assembly 202 is shown in Figure 12-14 and includes a semi-circular open surface 342 and a front wall 344. The semi-circular open surface 342 can have a diameter that is substantially the same as the diameter of the semi-circular open surface 302 provided in the integral inner receiving port assembly 202. That is, the semi-circular open surface 342 can be the same or slightly larger than the diameter of the fiber optic cable to be received in the cable receiving port. One or more flexible teeth or prongs 346 extend downwardly and inwardly from the upper inner edge of the semi-circular open surface 342. The second gel member 199 is generally rectangular in shape and a portion of the upper side 199A abuts the inner surface of an upper wall 354 that extends from the inner surface of the front wall 344 Figure 14 ). As depicted in Figure 13 , a gap 395 is provided between a portion of the gel member 199 and the inner portion of the arm 356. The longitudinal semi-circular conical portion of the gel member 199 adjacent the open surface 342 is missing or removed, forming a semi-conical surface 348 (see, for example, Figure 13 , Figure 13A). The flexible teeth or prongs 346 are shaped and sized so that they are adjacent to and can rest on the conical surface 348 and can even extend through a portion of the gel member 199, similar to that described above with respect to the first gel member 198. Similar to that described above with respect to the integral inner receiving port assembly 202, some or all of the teeth or prongs 346 can be fully embedded within the gel member 199. The rear edge portion 343 of the front wall 344 includes a vertical recess or groove 352 that cooperates with a corresponding raised lip 312 (see, e.g., Figure 11 ) provided in the post 304 of the integral inner receiving port assembly 202 to provide a watertight and air tight seal. The arm 356 extends substantially perpendicular to the front wall 344 and includes a plurality of ratchet grooves 357. As depicted in Figure 13 , each ratchet groove 357 is defined by a first edge 396 that extends substantially perpendicular to the arm 356 and a second edge 397 that extends at an angle from the arm 356. The ratchet grooves 357 act as part of a ratchet mechanism as will be described later. The hooks 360 project downward on each side of the front wall 344 as best shown in Figure 12 and Figure 14 . The hooks 360 removably cooperate with corresponding hook members 337 (see, e.g., Figure 19 ) provided in the slots 335 along the side walls 316 on each side of the open surface 302 as will be described in further detail later.

[0076] According to illustrative embodiments of the present disclosure, Figure 15 , the ratchet latch member 380 is used to secure the removable outer receiving port assembly 200 to the integral inner receiving port assembly 202. The ratchet latch member 380 includes a body 382 having an internal track 387 that extends to a slot-like receiving port 384. A ratchet tooth 385 partially extends into each receiving port 384 (only one shown). The internal track 387 and slot-like receiving port 384 are sized and configured for receiving the arm 356 extending from the removable outer receiving port assembly 200. An extension arm 388 extends downward from the body 382 and includes a hook member 390 that extends outward. The track arm 386 projects outward substantially perpendicular to a lower portion of the body 382.

[0077] As depicted in Figure 16 and 17The arms 356 extending from the removable outer receptacle assembly 200 extend through the internal tracks 387 and slot-like receptacles 384 in the ratchet latch member 380 and are slidably received therein, as depicted in the cross-section in FIG. 18. The ratchet teeth 385 extending into the receptacles 384 of the ratchet latch member 380 engage the ratchet grooves 357 in the arms 356 of the removable outer receptacle assembly 200, such that the ratchet latch member 380 is free to ratchet and slide onto the removable outer receptacle assembly 200 in the direction of the arrows shown. Figure 16 To separate and remove the ratchet latch member 380 from the removable outer receptacle assembly 200, the arms 356 are squeezed inwardly toward one another, disengaging the ratchet teeth 385 from the ratchet grooves 357 to allow the ratchet latch member 380 to easily slide in the opposite direction of the arrows shown.

[0078] Referring to Figure 18 , a portion of the outer jacket and any other outer layers of the main fiber optic cable 10, including any outer strength members, inner cable jacket, etc., can be stripped away to expose the individual optical fibers 12 or buffer tubes containing the individual optical fibers 12. The jacketed portion of the cable 10 is then positioned on the upper surface 319 of the gel pad 198 in the integral inner receptacle assembly 202 of the end plate 250. The hooks 360 extending downwardly from the upper outer receptacle assembly 200 are then aligned with the corresponding slots 335 in the integral inner receptacle assembly 202, while holding the outer receptacle assembly 200 at an angle of approximately 20-45 degrees relative to the integral inner receptacle assembly 202. The outer receptacle assembly 200 is lowered onto the integral inner receptacle assembly 202 until the hooks 360 extending downwardly from the outer receptacle assembly 200 enter the slots 335 and engage the hook members 337 in the integral inner receptacle assembly 202, as shown in the cross-section in FIG. 19. The upper outer receptacle assembly 200 is then rotated in the direction "X" until the hooks 360 are fully seated in the notches 339 located below the hook members 337. There should be sufficient length of the jacketed main fiber optic cable 10 left on the main fiber optic cable 10 so that the jacketed portion can rest on the strength member 132 and be clamped to the strength member with the clamp 134. Figure 19

[0079] Referring to Figure 20 and Figure 21 ​The ratchet latch member 380 is then slid in the direction "Y". The track arms 386 extending from the body 382 of the ratchet latch member 380 are received in the grooves 317 provided in the side walls 316 of the one-piece interior receiving port assembly 202. Additionally, the hook members 390 extending from the extension arms 388 of the ratchet latch member 380 are received in the slots 315 provided in the lower plate 314 of the one-piece interior receiving port assembly 202 to effectively secure the outer receiving port assembly 200 to the one-piece interior receiving port assembly 202 and form the cable receiving port 152. To release and remove the upper outer receiving port assembly 200, the arms 356 are squeezed toward one another, thereby releasing the ratchet mechanism and allowing the ratchet latch member 380 to slide in a direction opposite the direction "Y" (e.g., in the "-Y" direction) until the track arms 386 are no longer within the grooves 317 and the hook members 390 are no longer received in the slots 315. The upper outer receiving port assembly can then be rotated upward and away from the one-piece interior receiving port assembly 200 so that the cable 10 can be removed.

[0080] The teeth 306 and 346 extending from the outer receiving port assembly 200 and the one-piece interior receiving assembly 202, respectively, Figure 11 Figure 12 will hold the cable 10 generally centered in the cable receiving port 152 between the lower gel pad 198 provided in the one-piece interior receiving port assembly 202 and the upper gel pad 199 provided in the outer receiving port assembly 200. The fiber optic cable 10 will also rest on and be clamped to the arcuate plate 182 of the strength member 132 by the clamp 134 and screw member 180 (see, e.g., Figure 6 Figure 6 A and Figure 8 Figure 8 A) further holding the cable 10 generally centered in the cable receiving port 152 between the upper gel pad 199 provided in the outer receiving port assembly or box 200 and the lower gel pad 198 provided in the one-piece interior receiving port assembly 202. The main fiber optic cable 10 can include a strength member component 10a that generally extends in the middle portion of the cable that is surrounded by individual fibers or individual fiber bundles. The fiber optic cable can house hundreds or even thousands of individual fibers. The strength member component 10a generally adds a degree of stiffness to the cable and allows the cable to be secured to structures that mitigate stress on the individual fibers. According to the present embodiment, the strength member component 10a can be secured to the strength member 132 with a bolt (not shown) that extends through the aperture 184 in the strength member 132 and is secured with a nut (not shown).

[0081] The fiber optic splice tray 114 according to the illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure is shown in Figure 22 ​​​The fiber optic connector tray 114 is shown in FIG. 4 and can be referred to simply as tray 114. The tray 114 includes a base 404 and a cover 402. One or more optical fiber access openings can be provided to allow optical fibers to enter and exit the fiber optic connector tray 114. In accordance with the present illustrative embodiment, four optical fiber access openings 406 are provided, one at each corner of the tray 114. Adjacent to each optical fiber access opening 406 is a tie-down platform 408 extending from the base 404. Each tie-down platform 408 includes one or more slotted holes 410 through which a cable tie (e.g., a zip tie, twist tie, etc.) can be tied to allow an optical fiber to be securely attached to the base 404. The proximal end 114A of the fiber optic connector tray 114 includes a shaft 412 that allows the tray 114 to be removably attached to an attachment point, such as the riser 140 (see FIG. 1). More specifically, the shaft 412 extending from the proximal end 114A of the tray 114 is slid into one of the notches 142 and then rests in the groove 143 located in the riser 140. The bottom edge portion 147 of the tray 114 rests on the ledge 145 disposed below the notch 142 of the riser 140, holding the tray 114 in a horizontal position. The shaft 412 is rotatable within the groove 143 of the riser 140k so that the tray 114 can be flipped up, pivoting on the shaft 412, while still attached to the riser 140, so that any tray in the stack held by the riser 140 can be easily accessed without having to remove any of the trays from the riser 140. Figure 25 ) More specifically, the shaft 412 extending from the proximal end 114A of the tray 114 is slid into one of the notches 142 and then rests in the groove 143 located in the riser 140. The bottom edge portion 147 of the tray 114 rests on the ledge 145 disposed below the notch 142 of the riser 140, holding the tray 114 in a horizontal position. The shaft 412 is rotatable within the groove 143 of the riser 140k so that the tray 114 can be flipped up, pivoting on the shaft 412, while still attached to the riser 140, so that any tray in the stack held by the riser 140 can be easily accessed without having to remove any of the trays from the riser 140.

[0082] As Figure 23As depicted, base 404 includes relatively straight parallel longitudinal walls 426, each including one or more fiber cabling tabs 420 extending inwardly from its top. The proximal end 114A of base 404 includes an arcuate wall 428, which also includes one or more inwardly extending fiber cabling tabs 420. The distal end 114B of fiber optic connector tray 114 also includes an arcuate wall 430 with one or more inwardly extending fiber cabling tabs 420. The diameter of the arcuate walls 428, 430 is larger than the minimum diameter recommended for bending the optical fiber to be held in tray 114. The fiber cabling tabs 420 and the arcuate walls 428, 430 allow the slack portion of the optical fiber to be neatly and securely held within connector tray 114. One or more connector organizers 422 may be permanently or removably attached to base 404. According to this illustrative embodiment, a removable connector organizer 422 is removably held between connector organizer posts 424. Each connector organizer post 424 includes a notched lower portion 432 that receives a corresponding tab (not shown) extending from an end portion of the connector organizer 422, holding the connector organizer 422 in place. Because the connector organizer 422 is removable, various types, sizes, and configurations of connector organizers can be used as needed. An arm 434 extends outward from the distal end 114B of the tray 114 and includes a notch for engaging a corresponding hook in the cover 402.

[0083] The lower side of the lid 402 (e.g., the side facing the inside of the tray 114) is in Figure 24 Depicted in the figure. The distal end 402B of the lid 402 includes an extension 446 having an arm 454 extending therefrom. A post 456 extends from the arm 454 and has a latch hook end 458 projecting therefrom. The proximal end 402A of the lid 402 includes an extension 440 having posts 442 extending therefrom, each post having a hook-shaped end 444.

[0084] In order to attach the cap 402 to the base 404, the hook-shaped end 444 extending from the cap 402 slides below the rotation point 450 in the proximal end 114A of the base 404. Figure 23 , Figure 23 A). Therefore, the cover 402 is pivotally attached to the base 404 and is movable between an open position and a closed position. In the closed position ( Figure 22 ), from the arm 454 of the cover 402 ( Figure 24 , Figure 24 A) The protruding latch hook end 458 engages the notch 436 in the arm 434 of the base 404, effectively locking the cover in the closed position. To open the cover 402, the arm 434 can be... Figure 23The latch hook end portion 459 is separated from the notch 436 and allows the cover 402 to be lifted from the base 404 as the arrows in the figure indicate.

[0085] An end plate assembly according to another illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure is shown in Figure 26A , Figure 26B and Figure 27 and can be referred to as end plate 750. The end plate 750 is similar in some respects to the end plate assembly 112 described above. For the sake of brevity, similar aspects of the end plate 750 will not be described in detail again. The end plate 750 is generally rectangular in shape, but can also have different shapes such as, for example, oval, elliptical, etc. When assembled, the end plate 750 has a plurality of cable receiving ports 752, each of which is capable of receiving a main fiber optic cable. In this illustrative embodiment, eight (8) such cable receiving ports 752 are provided so that up to eight (8) main fiber optic cables can be received in the splice closure assembly. If a fiber optic cable is not received with a particular cable receiving port 752, a plug 2 can be inserted into the cable receiving port. Typically, the plug 2 can be a solid or hollow section of material having a diameter similar to the diameter of the cable for which the cable receiving port is sized to receive. Of course, the shape and size of the end plate 750 can be modified and designed to provide more or less cable receiving ports 752 as desired. Each cable receiving port 752 is formed by a removable outer receiving port assembly box 500 and an inner gel pad assembly or box 620 that sealingly engages and mates with the integral inner receiving port assembly 702. Each cable receiving port 752 is capable of receiving and holding a main fiber optic cable 10 and providing a watertight and air tight seal around the fiber optic cable 10.

[0086] The end plate 750 includes a front wall 709 having a substantially rectangular opening and a lower wall 701 having a semi-circular opening surface 703 forming part of each integral internal receiving port assembly 702. Each integral internal receiving port assembly 702 also includes an internal side wall 705 and a lower semi-circular bottom 706 extending from the front wall 709 as shown. The side edge portion 710 of the front wall 709 includes a recessed edge portion 710a and a notched keyway 710b. As will be described below, the internal side wall 705 and the side edge portion 710 of the front wall 709 are positioned and dimensioned to sealingly engage corresponding portions of the removable external receiving port assembly cassette 500. The lower semi-circular bottom 706 is recessed from the lower semi-circular opening surface 703 in the lower wall 701 and is dimensioned to sealingly engage corresponding portions of the internal gel pad assembly or cassette 620. The semi-circular opening surface 703 can have a diameter that is substantially the same as or greater than the diameter of the fiber optic cable to be received in the cable receiving port 752. The rear portion of the end plate 750 includes a bracket 754 similar to the bracket 158 described above, but rather than being located in the center portion of the end plate 750, is positioned along the lower edge portion of the end plate 750. The lower plate 111 of the tray retention assembly 110 can then extend from and be supported by the end plate assembly 112 via a substantially straight arm member rather than the substantially inverted "S-shaped" arm member 128 described above. A hole 20 can be provided in the end plate 750 for receiving an air valve (not shown) to allow pressurization of the housing 102 with air and flash testing after the housing is sealed.

[0087] The internal gel pad assembly or cassette 620 according to illustrative embodiments of the present disclosure is shown in Figure 28 and Figure 29The inner gel pad assembly 620 includes a gel pad member 601, an inner support member 610, and an outer support member 545. The gel pad member 601 includes a planar upper surface 601d having an elongated semi-circular channel 601b and semi-circular tapered portions 601a and 601f. The semi-circular tapered portion 601a tapers from its outer semi-circular leading edge 601c to the elongated semi-circular channel 601b. The semi-circular tapered portion 601f tapers from its leading edge 601g to the elongated semi-circular channel 601b. The gel pad member 601 has an elongated semi-circular lower surface 601e that is sized to fit closely within the semi-circular bottom 706 of the unitary inner receiving portion assembly 702. The gel pad member 601 also includes a semi-circular portion 602 recessed from the elongated semi-circular lower surface 601e and a semi-circular portion 603 recessed from the semi-circular portion 602. One or more retention legs 602a extend from the semi-circular portion 602. The inner support member 610 includes a semi-circular channel 610a sized and positioned to receive the semi-circular portion 602 of the gel pad member 601. One or more openings or apertures 610b extend through the inner support member 610 and are sized and positioned to receive the one or more retention legs 602a of the gel pad member 601, thereby securing the inner support member 610 to the gel pad member 601. The inner support member 610 has an upper semi-circular surface 610d positioned and sized to receive the semi-circular portion 603 of the gel pad member 601. The outer edge of the upper semi-circular surface 610d includes one or more teeth 610c. The semi-circular tapered portion 601f of the gel pad member 601 can include a recess 601h positioned and sized to receive the teeth 610c extending from the inner support member 610. The outer support member 545 includes an outer lip 545a and an inner lip 545b forming a gap 545d therebetween that is sized to fit closely over the semi-circular open surface 703 of the unitary inner receiving portion assembly 702. A key 545c spans the gap 545d and is positioned and sized to fit closely within the notch 703a formed in the semi-circular open surface 703. The semi-circular tapered portion 601a can include a recess similar to the recess 601h for receiving the teeth 547 extending from the outer support member 545. As shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, the outer surface of the gel pad member 601 is positioned above the outer surface of the support member 610. Figure 29 As shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, the outer surface of the gel pad member 601 is positioned above the outer surface of the support member 610.

[0088] According to Figure 30 and Figure 31In the illustrative embodiment depicted in FIG. 6, the inner gel pad assembly or cassette 620 rests on the semicircular bottom 706 of the unitary inner receiving portion assembly 702. The semicircular open surface 703 of the unitary inner receiving portion assembly 702 is sized to correspond to the outer semicircular edge 601c of the gel pad member 601. In particular, as shown, the outer semicircular edge 601c of the gel pad member 601 sits above the semicircular open surface 703. The outer support member 545 is positioned along the semicircular open surface 703 of the unitary inner receiving portion assembly 702 such that the teeth 547 abut the semicircular tapered portion 601a of the gel pad member 601. A locking notch 707 is provided alongside the wall portion of the inner receiving portion assembly 702 and is positioned and sized to receive the latching hook provided on the removable outer receiving portion assembly cassette 500, as will be described later.

[0089] A removable outer receiving portion assembly or cassette according to illustrative embodiments of the present disclosure is shown in Figure 32-38 FIG. 6 and can be referred to as assembly or cassette 500. The cassette 500 includes a main body 502, a gel pad member 599, and a compression member 600. The main body 502 has a front wall 544 that is sized to fit within a rectangular opening in the front wall 709 of the unitary inner receiving portion assembly opening 702 Figure 27 ). In particular, the front wall 544 is substantially rectangular and has a recessed side edge portion 544a that includes one or more key members 544b that are positioned and sized to engage with the side edge portion 710 of the front wall 709. For example, the recessed edge portion 544a and the key members 544b mate with the edge portion 710a and the keyway 710b of the front wall 709 of the end plate 750, forming an air and water tight seal. A semicircular opening 542 is provided in the front wall 544 of the main body 502. The semicircular opening 542 can have a diameter that is the same as or greater than the diameter of the main fiber optic cable to be received in the cable receiving port. The front wall 544 of the main body 502 can include a circular notch 502n that is sized to receive a gasket 106, allowing a sealing collar, such as one of the sealing collars 108 and 208 described herein, to provide a water and air tight seal for the housing 102.

[0090] A support platform 546 extends from a rear surface of the front wall 544. The support platform 546 supports components forming the cartridge 500, including, for example, a gel pad member 599 and a compression member 600. The support platform 546 has a lower mating surface 548 that abuts and mates with an upper surface 599h of the gel pad member 599. The lower mating surface 548 includes diagonal side arms 548e, a recess 548f, and a semicircular protrusion 548g. A longitudinal hole or bore 546a extends at least partially through the semicircular protrusion 548g in the support platform 546. A threaded insert 560 is molded into or otherwise secured within the longitudinal bore 546a. One or more longitudinal holes or bores 546b can also extend at least partially through the components described herein, including, for example, the support platform 546, thereby saving material costs and weight. A sliding extension 562 extends from the support platform 546 and is sized to slidably receive the compression member 600. For example, the sliding extension 562 includes side rails 562a.

[0091] The compression member 600 includes an upper edge 600b forming a slot 600a Figure 35 ) that is sized and positioned to receive the side rails 562a, allowing the compression member 600 to slide longitudinally along the side rails 562a of the extension 562. Similar to the external support member described above with respect to Figure 28 An external support member 545, similar to the external support member described above with respect to

[0092] The gel pad member 599 includes an upper mating surface 599h that abuts and mates with the lower mating surface 548 of the support platform 546. The gel pad member 599 includes a rear surface that abuts and mates with the interior surface of the compression member 600. For example, the rear surface 599e of the gel pad member 599 includes a stepped downward or angled surface 599i that extends to a lower surface 599k. The interior surface 600m of the compression member 600 includes a stepped upward or angled surface 600k that abuts the stepped downward or angled surface 599i of the gel pad member 599. The stepped upward or angled surface 600k extends to a lower surface 600n of a lower arm 600p that abuts the lower surface 599k of the gel pad member 599. The gel pad member 599 also includes partial side walls 599b and a band member 599p that extends between the partial side walls 599b and that wraps around and rests in the recessed portion 546e of the support platform 546, thereby securing the gel pad member 599 to the main body 502 (see, e.g., Figure 38 ). The lower surface 599d of the gel pad member 599 is similar to the upper surface 601d of the gel pad member 601. For example, the lower surface 599d is substantially flat and includes longitudinal semi-circular portions 599b and semi-circular tapered portions 599a and 599f similar to the longitudinal semi-circular portions 601b and semi-circular tapered portions 601a and 601f of the gel pad member 601. The semi-circular tapered portion 599a tapers from its outer semi-circular leading edge 599c to the elongated semi-circular groove 599b and can include notches 599n for receiving the teeth 547 of the outer support member 545. The semi-circular tapered portion 599f tapers from its leading edge 599g to the elongated semi-circular groove 599b. When the gel pad members 599 and 601 are mated together when the cassette 500 is inserted into the integral internal receiving port assembly opening 702, the semi-circular portions 599b and 601b form a circular opening or port 752 (see Figure 27 ) that is sized to receive the main fiber optic cable 10. The semi-circular tapered portions 601a and 599a and 601f and 599f form a conical opening to the circular opening or port 752.

[0093] A locking mechanism for locking the cassette 500 to the integral internal receiving port assembly opening is shown in Figure 38 and Figure 39A-39CThe image shows and includes a locking arm member 800 and a latch arm member 802. The latch arm member 802 includes a body 802d having hooks or latches 802a (only one shown) extending from both sides of the body 802d. The body 802d also includes two longitudinal wings 802c extending from the body 802d. The gap between the two longitudinal wings 802c and the length of the two longitudinal wings are dimensioned to receive the locking arm member 800. An aperture 802b extends through the distal end portions of the two longitudinal wings 802c for receiving a pin 803, which also extends through an aperture 800c in the locking arm member 800, such that the latch arm member 802 is pivotally attached to the locking arm member 800. The locking arm member 800 also includes an aperture 800b extending therethrough. The upper portion of the support platform 546 of the body 502 includes a pair of struts 546c, each strut including an aperture 546d extending therethrough. Pin 804 extends through hole 546d in post 546c in support platform 546 and through hole 800b extending through locking arm member 800, such that locking arm member 800 is pivotally attached to support platform 546.

[0094] like Figure 39A As shown, after the housing 500 is positioned within the integrated internal receiving port assembly opening 702, the locking arm member 800 pivots upward in a clockwise direction, which allows the latch member 802 to extend outward (as shown). Figure 39A (As depicted in the image, extending to the right). Then, the latch arm member 802 can be pressed downwards such that the hook 802a engages with a locking recess 707 provided in the inner sidewall 705 of the integrated internal receiving port assembly opening 702. (See, for example, [image of the latch arm member 802]). Figure 26A and Figure 39B Then, the locking arm member 800 pivots downward in a counterclockwise direction, which moves the latch member 802 inward (as shown). Figure 39C Pulling to the left (as depicted in the image) tightens hook 802a into locking recess 707. Due to the arrangement of the attachment points of latch member 802, locking arm member 800, and support platform 546, locking arm member 800 will snap into place. Figure 39C The closed and locked position is depicted and held therein. The locking arm member 800 can be lifted in a clockwise direction, in reverse of the process described above, to release the box 500.

[0095] For illustrative purposes, the closed and locked box 500 and the lower gel pad assembly 620 are in Figure 40 and Figure 41 As depicted, it is located outside the integrated internal receiver port assembly opening 702. Once the housing 500 is located in the integrated internal receiver port assembly opening 702 and is in... Figure 40 and Figure 41In the closed and locked position depicted in FIG. 6, the bolt 604 can be tightened in a clockwise direction to pull the compression member 600 inward toward the front wall 544 until the side wall 600c comes into contact with the edge portion 599m of the gel pad 599. This pulls the compression member 600 inward toward the front wall 544, contacting and compressing the gel pad 599 between the front wall 544 and the compression member 600. The lower leg 600p of the compression member 600 also contacts the upper wall 610e of the inner support member 610, compressing the lower gel pad member 601 between the inner support member 610 and the inner surface of the lower wall 701 of the end plate assembly 750. As Figure 42 In the closed and locked position depicted in FIG. 6, the bolt 604 can be tightened in a clockwise direction to pull the compression member 600 inward toward the front wall 544 until the side wall 600c comes into contact with the edge portion 599m of the gel pad 599. This pulls the compression member 600 inward toward the front wall 544, contacting and compressing the gel pad 599 between the front wall 544 and the compression member 600. The lower leg 600p of the compression member 600 also contacts the upper wall 610e of the inner support member 610, compressing the lower gel pad member 601 between the inner support member 610 and the inner surface of the lower wall 701 of the end plate assembly 750. As

[0096] A sealing collar according to another illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure is shown in Figure 43A and Figure 43B and is referred to as sealing collar 208. The sealing collar 208 is used in a similar manner to the sealing collar 108 described above to seal the second end of the fiber optic housing 102 using the end plate assembly 112 or 750 and one or more spacers 106. The sealing collar 208 includes a first generally U-shaped portion 208a and a second generally U-shaped portion 208b that are joined at their distal ends by a hinge member 221. The first and second portions 208A, 208B are generally U-shaped in cross-section. A clamping mechanism 209 is provided for removably joining the first and second portions 208A, 208B at their proximal ends. The proximal end of the second portion 208B includes a flange 208c having a hole 208i extending therethrough. A pin 221 extends through the hole 208i in the flange 208c and a hole 210a in the arm 210, allowing the arm 210 to pivot thereon. The locking cam arm member 211 includes a slot 211a for receiving the distal end of the arm 210. A pin 223 extends through a hole 211e in the locking cam arm member 211 and a hole 210b in the arm 210, allowing the locking cam arm member 211 and the arm 210 to pivot relative to one another. The locking cam arm member 211 includes a cam surface 211b that engages a cam surface 208g provided in a flange 208d on the proximal end of the first portion 208A of the sealing collar 208 when the locking cam arm member 211 is in a locked position. When placed in the locked position with the cam surface 211b engaged with the cam surface 208g, the locking cam arm member 211 can be rotated clockwise. Because the pivot point at the hole 211e is offset relative to the cam surface 211b, this will pull the proximal ends of the first and second portions 208A, 208B of the sealing collar 208 together. The clamping mechanism 209 is then tightened to secure the first and second portions 208A, 208B of the sealing collar 208 in the locked position. Figure 43AThe second end 118 of the housing 102 and the end plate 750 form an air and water tight seal about the locking position indicated in the middle. The locking cam arm member 22 includes a stop arm 21 lc that engages a stop 208e extending from the flange 208d for stopping over-rotation of the cam arm member 211 and maintaining cam surface engagement when in the locked position. A locking pin (not shown) can be inserted through a hole 21 Im in a flange 21 Id extending from the locking cam arm member 211 and a corresponding hole 208m in a flange 208f extending from the second portion 208b of the seal collar 208.

[0097] A strength member according to another illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure is shown in Figure 44 The strength member 480 includes a strength member body 460 and a strength member tether 461. The strength member body 460 includes an upper surface 473 on which the jacketed portion of the main fiber optic cable 10 rests. The jacketed portion of the main fiber optic cable 10 can be secured to the surface 473 with a pipe clamp 467. The strength member body 460 has a lower wall 464 that includes an oblong hole 465 extending therethrough. The lower wall 464 is sized to be received in a corresponding mating surface 751 located in the rear of the end plate 750 (see Figure 26BThe cable 10 is secured using bolts (not shown) that extend through a hole 465 in the lower wall 464 and are received in a threaded drilled hole 753. The rectangular hole 465 allows the strength member 480 to move vertically to adjust the height of the upper surface 473 of the strength member body 460 so that it is aligned with the cable 10 passing through the cable receiving port 752. The distal end of the strength member strap 461 includes an L-shaped leg 462 that is press-fitted by a slot 463 provided in the strength member body 460. After the cable 10 is placed on the upper surface 473, the pipe clamp 467 is tightened using a screw-driven mechanism driven by a screw 468, which can also be used to loosen the clamp 467. The strength member body 460 includes a recessed area 466 for retaining the screw-driven mechanism portion of the pipe clamp 467. The strength member component 10a of the main fiber optic cable 10 extends into the opening 470 of the clamp 471 and is secured to the strength member tether 461 using the clamp 471 and set screws 472. The proximal end of the strength member tether 461 includes one or more, in this embodiment, three forked protrusions 469, which can be used to secure cables with different types of strength member components. For example, some fiber optic cables include a metal layer under a polymer layer to protect the fragile optical fibers from damage by rodents or other factors. This metal layer can be easily attached to the forked protrusions 469 of the strength member tether 461 in any suitable manner. The three forked protrusions 469 allow various other types of strength members to be attached thereto, including centrally located strength members and other types that can extend along one or more sides of the cable 10. Individual optical fibers or cables 12 extending from the main fiber optic cable 10 are routed within the housing 102 to connector trays 114 or 214.

[0098] According to another illustrative embodiment of this disclosure, the fiber optic connector tray 114 is in Figure 45-47 The image shown can be simply referred to as tray 214. Tray 214 is similar in some respects to the aforementioned connector tray 114. Therefore, the features of tray 214 that are common to tray 114 will not be described in detail. Tray 214 includes a base 204. (The last sentence appears to be incomplete and possibly refers to a different document.) Figure 24Similar covers 402 can be used to cover the trays 214. One or more fiber optic openings 206 can be provided to allow fiber optic or cable 12 to pass into and out of the fiber optic splice tray 214. According to the illustrative embodiment, four fiber optic openings 206 are provided, one at each corner of the tray 214. The proximal end 214a of the fiber optic splice tray 214 includes an extension block 224 and legs 228, each having a pin 212 that extends inwardly toward an opening 226. The pins 212 allow the tray 214 to be removably attached to an attachment point, such as a riser 240. More specifically, the pins 212 slide into notches 242 in parallel riser arms 241, allowing the tray 214 to pivot or rotate upwardly and downwardly relative to the riser 240. The tray 214 is typically positioned horizontally, as depicted by the tray 214A in Figure 46 The tray 214 and the riser 240 include structures for holding the tray in an upward position, as depicted by the tray 214B in Figure 46 , allowing work to be performed on lower trays in a stack of trays. For example, when the tray 214 is rotated upwardly, the detents 222 extend inwardly toward the openings 226 in the tray 214 and engage detent protrusions 220 located on the sides of the riser arms 241 (see, e.g., Figure 47 ). To ensure that the tray remains in the upward position, the arms 218, which are pivotably attached to recessed arm storage areas 219 located on the bottom surface of the tray 214, can be extended so that they rest in notches 216 provided in the upper surface of the extension block 224 in a lower tray in the stack. In this manner, the tray 214 can be flipped upwardly while still attached to the riser 240, so that any of the trays in the stack of trays that are held by the riser 240 can be easily accessed and manipulated without having to remove any of the trays from the riser 240. Of course, the tray 214 can be easily removed from the riser 240 by disengaging the pins 212 from the notches 242 in the parallel riser arms 241.

[0099] As described herein, the components that form the cable receiving ports (e.g., ports 152, 752) are provided as replaceable components or cartridges. Thus, the enclosure 102 can be easily modified to receive various diameters of fiber optic cable simply by replacing these components with components that are sized to receive different diameters of fiber optic cable as desired.

[0100] In the first embodiment described above with reference to Figure 8 , the distal end 172 of the threaded grounding rod assembly 170 extends through an aperture 252 that extends through the end plate 250. The proximal end 176 of the threaded grounding rod assembly 170 extends inwardly from the aperture, and the grounding rod assembly 170 is directly tied to the metal strength member 132. In contrast, in the second embodiment described above with reference to Figure 26BIn the embodiment depicted in FIG. 7, the strength member body 460 is non-metallic and is attached directly to a non-metallic mating surface 751 in the back surface of the non-metallic end plate 750. If desired, one end of the ground braid 757 can be attached to the ground rod assembly 170 through the end plate 250 and the other end attached to the L-shaped leg 462 of the conductive strength member tie 461. This allows one or more of the conductive strength tie members 461 to be tied to ground as required or desired by the end user. As noted above, the distal ends 172 of one or more of the ground rods 170 can be interconnected. For example, as shown in FIG. 8, the distal ends 172 of the ground rods 170 can be interconnected by a conductive braid 757. The braid 757 can be attached to the end plate 250 at one end and to the L-shaped leg 462 of the conductive strength member tie 461 at the other end. This allows one or more of the conductive strength tie members 461 to be tied to ground as required or desired by the end user. Figure 9 As shown in FIG. 7, one or more conductive plates 257 can be provided for passing each of two or more, in this exemplary embodiment, eight (8), ground rod assemblies 170 through the end plate 250. Thus, the ground rods 170 can be tied to ground / earth individually or in batches.

[0101] As shown in all of the figures, like reference numerals refer to like or corresponding parts. While illustrative embodiments of the disclosure have been described and illustrated above, it should be understood that these are exemplary embodiments of the disclosure and are not to be considered as limiting. Additions, deletions, substitutions, and other modifications can be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the disclosure. Accordingly, the disclosure is not to be considered as being limited by the foregoing description.

[0102] To facilitate description and understanding, certain terminology can be used in this disclosure. Examples include the following terms or variants thereof: upper, upward, interior, exterior, lower, downward, upper portion, lower portion, and the like. These terms refer to the reference directions in the drawings and are not necessarily meant to refer to any actual configuration of one or more structures in use and therefore do not necessarily imply limitation.

[0103] The gel pads or gel pad members described herein are generally formed from a thermoplastic elastomer or TPE material. The TPE material forming the gel pads or gel pad members generally has a specific gravity of about 0.87, a viscosity of about 3.4 Pa-s at 11170 / s, an elongation at break of about 691.9%, a tensile strength at break of about 45.9 psi, and a hardness of about 40. The gel pads or gel pad members can be formed utilizing any suitable manufacturing method, including, for example, injection molding.

[0104] The elements forming part of the joint closure assembly described herein can be formed of any suitable type of material. For example, those elements requiring electrical continuity (e.g., the ground rod assembly, the strength member 132, the strength member tie 461, etc.) can be formed of any suitable type of electrically conductive material, including steel, aluminum, etc. Other elements not requiring electrical continuity can be formed of a suitable type of material, including high impact resistant plastic. Polycarbonate or polyvinyl chloride (PVC) can be used, as can polypropylene, either alone or in combination with one or more reinforcing materials, such as additive-filled polypropylene. Suitable reinforcing materials can include glass fibers, carbon fibers, etc. The S-arms 128, the lower plate 111, the strap members 148, 149 can be formed of, for example, spring steel. To provide protection from the environment, preferably any steel elements are made of stainless steel.

Claims

1. A fiber optic cable closure assembly comprising: a housing having an open end; an end plate assembly for sealing the open end, the end plate assembly comprising, at least one fiber optic cable receiving port comprising: a first cable receiving port box at least a portion of which is integrally formed with the end plate assembly; a second cable receiving port box movable relative to the first cable receiving port box between at least a first position and a second position; and a latching member operatively associated with the second cable receiving port box for selectively securing the first cable receiving port box to the second cable receiving port box, wherein in the first position the first and second cable receiving port boxes allow a cable to be positioned therebetween and wherein in the second position the first and second cable receiving port boxes form a sealed enclosure about the cable positioned therebetween.

2. The optical fiber cable closure assembly of claim 1, wherein, a plurality of fiber optic cable receiving ports are provided.

3. The optical fiber cable closure assembly of claim 1, wherein, the sealed enclosure about the cable is at least one of air and water tight.

4. The fiber optic cable closure assembly of claim 1, wherein, the first and second cable receiving port boxes comprise a gel pad.

5. The fiber optic cable closure assembly of claim 4, wherein, the gel pad forms a sealed enclosure about the cable.

6. The fiber optic cable closure assembly of claim 1, wherein, the latching member secures the second cable receiving port box to the first cable receiving port box when the second cable receiving port box is in the second position.

7. The fiber optic cable closure assembly of claim 6, wherein, the latching member comprises a ratchet mechanism.

8. The fiber optic cable closure assembly of claim 7, wherein, the ratchet mechanism engages a ratchet tooth on the first cable receiving port assembly.

9. The fiber optic cable closure assembly of claim 1, further comprising a strength member for securing the fiber optic cable within the housing.

10. A fiber optic cable closure comprising: a first cable receiving port box comprising a first pliable gel pad, at least a portion of the first cable receiving port box being integrally formed with the fiber optic cable closure; a second cable receiving port box comprising a second pliable gel pad, the second cable receiving port box being movable relative to the first cable receiving port box between at least a first position and a second position, wherein in the first position the first and second cable receiving port boxes allow a cable to be positioned between the first and second pliable gel pads and wherein in the second position the first and second pliable gel pads form a sealed enclosure about the cable.

11. The fiber optic cable closure of claim 10, further comprising at least one prong extending into each of the first and second pliable gel pads.

12. The fiber optic cable closure of claim 11, wherein, a plurality of prongs extend into each of the first and second pliable gel pads.

13. The fiber optic cable closure of claim 12, wherein, The plurality of prongs extend at an angle across a portion of a longitudinal length of each of the first and second pliable gel pads.

14. The fiber optic cable closure of claim 13, wherein, The at least one prong extending into each of the first and second pliable gel pads supports the cable substantially centered between the first and second pliable gel pads.

15. The fiber optic cable closure of claim 14, wherein, A portion of the first and second pliable gel pads is removed or missing.

16. The fiber optic cable closure of claim 15, wherein, The portion of the first and second pliable gel pads comprises a semi-conical shaped pocket.

17. The fiber optic cable closure of claim 10, further comprising a latching member operatively associated with the second cable receiving port housing for selectively securing the first cable receiving port housing to the second cable receiving port housing.

18. The fiber optic cable closure of claim 17, wherein, The latching member secures the second cable receiving port housing to the first cable receiving port housing when the second cable receiving port housing is in the second position.

19. The fiber optic cable closure of claim 18, wherein, The latching member comprises a ratchet mechanism.

20. The fiber optic cable closure of claim 19, wherein, The ratchet mechanism engages a ratchet tooth on the first cable receiving port assembly.

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