Telecommunications frame and branch closure device

Abstract

This disclosure relates to telecommunications frames and branch enclosures. A cable branch enclosure includes a body having first and second end openings. A sidewall of the body includes a channel extending substantially in the same direction as the sidewall's extension direction. A fiber optic guidance module includes a fiber optic guide arm positioned near the first end opening. The fiber optic guide arm forms a fiber optic guidance channel extending substantially in the same direction as the first end opening from a diverging direction from the second end opening. A cable mounting module includes a cable routing path extending from the second end opening into an interior space of the body. A cap is attachable to the cable mounting module and forms a cover over the cable routing path. The cover includes a cover wall and a guide rail receivable at the channel. The body includes a spring mechanism configured to apply force to the cover wall to retain the cover in the channel.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention generally relates to structures for telecommunications cables and equipment brackets, and more specifically to breakout closures. Background Technology

[0002] Fiber optic distribution boxes and related accessories, such as tubes for fiber bundles, are used to separate optical fibers from larger cables and group them into manageable bundles for splice boxes and splice trays, typically found in large splice frames. Known frames and distribution boxes are bulky and may not meet the requirements for a simple, efficient, or manufacturable solution.

[0003] Known junction boxes may include latches that are too rigid to allow for easy opening of the cover and to make it difficult to work with cables and fiber optics inside the box. Additionally, the need for tools to open, close, lock, or attach the cover or box can lead to inefficiency or damage.

[0004] Therefore, improved structures that facilitate better optical network deployment and / or address one or more of the aforementioned problems are desirable and advantageous in the art. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and may become apparent from the description or may be learned by practice of the invention.

[0006] One aspect of this disclosure relates to a cable branch enclosure comprising a body having a first end opening, a second end opening remote from the first end opening, and an internal space formed between the first end opening and the second end opening. The body includes a pair of sidewalls separated from each other and a bottom wall extending to the sidewalls. The sidewalls include channels extending substantially in the same direction as the sidewalls. A fiber optic guide module includes a plurality of fiber optic guide arms positioned near the first end opening. The fiber optic guide arms form a fiber optic guide channel extending substantially in the same direction as the first end opening from the second end opening. A cable mounting module includes a cable routing path extending from the second end opening to the internal space. A cap is attachable to the cable mounting module and forms a cover over the cable routing path. The cover includes a cover wall and a guide rail. The guide rail is accommodating at the channel in the body. The body includes a spring mechanism configured to apply force to the cover wall to retain the cover within the channel in the body.

[0007] One aspect of this disclosure relates to an apparatus for installing telecommunications equipment. The apparatus includes a frame having one or more pairs of outer sidewalls and one or more pairs of inner sidewalls. A first space is formed between the outer sidewalls and the inner sidewalls. A second space is formed between the inner sidewalls and a bottom wall extending between the pairs of inner sidewalls. A cabling opening extends through the inner sidewalls to allow cabling through the first space to the second space. A top wall is positioned at the top of the frame. The top wall includes a cable inlet opening allowing cabling to the first space. The top wall also includes a cable outlet opening allowing cabling from the opposing first space. A cable branch closure is configurable at a closure mounting location in the first space. The cable branch closure includes a body having a first end opening, a second end opening remote from the first end opening, and an internal space formed between the first end opening and the second end opening. The body includes a pair of sidewalls separated from each other and a bottom wall extending to the sidewalls. The sidewalls include channels extending substantially in the same direction as the sidewalls. A fiber optic guide module includes a plurality of fiber optic guide arms. The fiber optic guide module is positioned near the first end opening. The fiber optic guide arm forms a fiber optic guide channel that extends substantially in the same direction as the first end opening, which is separated from the second end opening. The cable mounting module includes a cable routing path extending from the second end opening into the internal space. A cap is attachable to the cable mounting module and forms a cover over the cable routing path. The cover includes a cover wall and a guide rail. The guide rail is accommodated in the channel at the body. The body includes a spring mechanism configured to apply force to the cover wall to retain the cover within the channel at the body.

[0008] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the invention will become more readily understood with reference to the following description and the appended claims. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0009] The specification sets forth a complete and feasible disclosure of the invention for those skilled in the art, including its best mode, and references the accompanying drawings.

[0010] Figure 1 A front-end perspective view of an exemplary telecommunications equipment installation framework according to aspects of this disclosure is shown;

[0011] Figure 2 Aspects according to this disclosure are shown Figure 1 A front view of an exemplary telecommunications equipment mounting frame;

[0012] Figure 3Aspects according to this disclosure are shown Figure 1 A front view of an exemplary telecommunications equipment installation framework, including exemplary cabling of cables and optical fibers, and the installation method of cable branch enclosures and boxes;

[0013] Figure 4 Aspects according to this disclosure are shown Figure 1 A front-view perspective of an exemplary telecommunications equipment mounting frame, with the door open;

[0014] Figure 5 Aspects according to this disclosure are shown Figure 1 A front-view perspective view of an exemplary telecommunications equipment mounting frame, with the door open and depicting an exemplary cable branch enclosure and box;

[0015] Figure 6 Aspects according to this disclosure are shown Figure 2 A detailed perspective view of an exemplary telecommunications equipment mounting frame;

[0016] Figure 7 Aspects according to this disclosure are shown Figure 1 A perspective view from the back end of an exemplary telecommunications equipment installation framework;

[0017] Figure 8 A perspective view from the first end of an exemplary cable branch closure device according to aspects of this disclosure is shown;

[0018] Figure 9 Aspects according to this disclosure are shown Figure 8 A perspective view of an exemplary cable branch enclosure device from the first end, wherein the covering has been removed;

[0019] Figure 10 Aspects according to this disclosure are shown Figure 8 A perspective view of the main body of an exemplary cable branch enclosure device from the first end;

[0020] Figure 11 Aspects according to this disclosure are shown Figure 8 A perspective view from the rear of an exemplary cable branch enclosure device;

[0021] Figure 12A A perspective view from the first end of an exemplary cable branch closure device according to aspects of this disclosure is shown;

[0022] Figure 12B A perspective view from the first end of an exemplary cable branch closure device according to aspects of this disclosure is shown;

[0023] Figure 13 Aspects according to this disclosure are shown Figure 12AA perspective view of an exemplary cable branch enclosure device from the first end, wherein the covering has been removed;

[0024] Figure 14 An exploded perspective view of the body of an exemplary cable branch closure device according to aspects of this disclosure is shown from the first end;

[0025] Figure 15 Aspects according to this disclosure are shown Figure 14 A perspective view of the main body of an exemplary cable branch enclosure device from the first end;

[0026] Figure 16 Aspects according to this disclosure are shown Figure 14 A perspective view of the main body of an exemplary cable branch enclosure device from the first end;

[0027] Figure 17 Aspects of this disclosure are shown. Figure 14 A perspective view of an exemplary cable branch closure device from the second end;

[0028] Figure 18 A top view of an exemplary cable branch enclosure according to aspects of this disclosure is shown, wherein the cover is transparent;

[0029] Figure 19 A rear perspective view of an exemplary cable branch closure device according to aspects of this disclosure is shown; and

[0030] Figure 20 A perspective view of an exemplary cable branch enclosure according to aspects of this disclosure is shown, wherein some portions have been removed for clarity, depicting the cable / fiber / conduit positioned therein. Detailed Implementation

[0031] Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of the invention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Each embodiment is provided as an explanation of the invention and not as a limitation thereof. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to the invention without departing from the scope or spirit thereof. For example, features shown or described as part of one embodiment may be used with another embodiment to produce yet another embodiment. Therefore, the invention is intended to cover these modifications and variations that fall within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0032] As used herein, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third” are used interchangeably to distinguish one component from another and are not intended to indicate the location or importance of the individual components. The terms “comprising” and “including” are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “including.” Similarly, the term “or” is generally intended to be inclusive (i.e., “A or B” is intended to mean “A or B or both”). Furthermore, scope limitations may be combined and / or interchanged herein and throughout the specification and claims. Such a scope is defined and includes all subscopes contained therein unless the context or language otherwise indicates. For example, all scopes disclosed herein include endpoints, and endpoints may be combined with each other independently. The singular forms “a(A),” “an(A),” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0033] As used herein throughout the specification and claims, approximate language may be used to modify any quantitative expression, which may vary without altering its associated essential function. Therefore, values ​​modified by one or more terms such as “approximately,” “about,” “approximately,” and “substantially” are not limited to the specified precise value. In at least some cases, approximate language may correspond to the precision of the instrument used to measure the value, or the precision of the method or machine used to construct or manufacture the component and / or system. For example, approximate language may refer to a range of 10%, i.e., values ​​included within ten percent greater or less than the stated value. In this regard, for example, when used in the context of angle or direction, such a term includes angles greater than or less than ten degrees of the angle or direction; for example, “approximately vertical” includes any direction, such as clockwise or counterclockwise, forming an angle of up to ten degrees with the vertical direction V.

[0034] The word "exemplary" is used herein to mean "serving as an example, instance, or illustration." Furthermore, references to "an embodiment" or "one embodiment" do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, although they may. Any implementation described herein as "exemplary" or "an embodiment" is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other implementations. Moreover, each example is provided as an explanation of the invention and not as a limitation thereof. Indeed, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to the invention without departing from its scope. For example, features shown or described as part of one embodiment may be used with another embodiment to produce yet another embodiment. Therefore, the invention is intended to cover these modifications and variations that fall within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0035] As used herein, the term “rack unit” (RU) is understood by those skilled in the art to be a unit of measurement less than approximately 1.75 inches (in) or approximately 44.45 millimeters (mm) or at most 0.03125 in or 0.794 mm when applied to telecommunications equipment attached to an installation structure.

[0036] Unless otherwise stated herein, the dimensions provided herein may include approximations of + / -2% of any discrete quantity, or approximations of +2% of the maximum value above a given range, or approximations of -2% of the maximum value below a given range.

[0037] This document describes and illustrates embodiments of telecommunications equipment installation devices and cable branch enclosure devices for solving one or more of the above-mentioned problems.

[0038] Figures 1-7 Views are provided of an exemplary embodiment of a telecommunications equipment installation apparatus 100 according to aspects of this disclosure. The apparatus 100 includes a frame 110 having sidewalls 128 separated from each other and forming an interior space 133 therebetween. A rear wall 129 extends between and connects the sidewalls 128. One or more doors 138 are attached to the frame 110 to allow selective access to and concealment of the interior space 133 of the frame 110. The sidewalls 128, or additionally, the rear wall 129, extend from a bottom wall 114. A top wall 112 is located on top of the sidewalls 128, or additionally, on top of the rear wall 129.

[0039] In various embodiments, device 100 includes an inner sidewall 124 extending substantially in the same direction as the outer sidewall 128. A plurality of inner bottom walls 132 extend substantially in the same direction as the outer bottom wall 114. The inner bottom walls 132 extend between the inner sidewalls 124 to form a space therebetween. Wiring spaces 230 are formed between the bottom walls 132 along a vertical direction V. Wiring trays or boxes 200 are arranged in an array between the wiring spaces 230, extending substantially along a longitudinal direction L.

[0040] Box 200 may extend substantially along the vertical direction V and be arranged adjacent to each other along the longitudinal direction L. For example, inlet / outlet openings 212 are provided at the lower and upper ends of box 200 along the vertical direction V (e.g., near the bottom wall 132), near the bottom wall 132, and near the cabling space 230 from which optical fibers are routed and routed to the cabling space 230.

[0041] Fiber optic cable 91 is configured to be received at device 100 at a cable inlet opening 134, for example, located at top wall 112. As further described herein, cable branch closure 300 may be positioned (e.g., suspended, mounted, wrapped, or otherwise secured) to frame 110, for example, at a hanger or mounting location 144. One or more cables 91 may extend into frame 110 through inlet 134. Embodiments of closure 300 are positioned in a space at frame 110, for example, in a first space 133 formed between sidewalls 128 or between outer sidewall 128 and inner sidewall 124. Closure mounting location 131 at device 100 includes wall and fastener openings or strip locations to receive closure 300 in first space 133. For example, briefly refer to Figure 19 The enclosure 300 may include a fastener interface 329 at the body 310 and is configured to attach to or correspond to the enclosure mounting position 131. As further described herein, a cable 91 enters the enclosure 300, for example, through a second end opening 304 further described herein. An optical fiber 93 branches off from the cable 91, extending, for example, from a first end opening 302 at the enclosure 300, and extends through a wiring opening 136 from a first space 133 (e.g., space 133A) to a second space 230 to enter one or more boxes 200 and be operatively coupled there. A fused optical fiber 94 exits from the box 200 into the second space 230 (e.g., the same second space 230 from which the optical fiber 93 enters the box 200) and exits into the opposing first space 133 (e.g., space 133B). The optical fiber 94 is allowed to exit from the relative first space 133B and exit the frame 110 at a cable exit opening 135, for example, configured to pass through the top wall 112 and adjacent to the optical cable inlet hole 134.

[0042] Reference Figures 1-7 In various embodiments, door 138 may include a first rib 139 extending substantially in a vertical direction V. Door 138 may include a second rib 140 extending substantially perpendicular to the vertical direction V. One or both ribs 139, 140 may reinforce the door. For example, reinforcing door 138 may facilitate holding documents, installation guides, or accessories at a retainer 150 at door 138.

[0043] The inner sidewall 124 may include a cabling opening 136 through which optical fiber is cabled from a first space 133 to a second space 230, the second space 230 being near an inlet / outlet opening 212 at the junction box 200. A cable guide interface 146 may be formed along the periphery of the opening 136 to provide an edge, profile, or curve to protect the optical fiber from breakage, for example by allowing the optical fiber to be bent at a desired radius.

[0044] Figures 8-20A view is provided of an embodiment of a cable branch enclosure 300 according to aspects of this disclosure. The enclosure 300 includes a body 310 forming a first end opening 302, a second end opening 304, and an interior space 308 between the openings 302, 304. A selectively removable cover 320 extends between the openings 302, 304 to provide selective access to the interior space 308. The openings 302, 304 provide openings through which cables, fiber optic leads, or other transmission elements extend into and out of the interior space 308 of the enclosure 300.

[0045] The main body 310 includes one or more pairs of sidewalls 312 separated from each other and a bottom wall 318 extending to the sidewalls 312. The cover 320 includes a front wall 322 extending substantially in the same direction as the bottom wall 318. The sidewalls 312 extend from the bottom wall 318 and provide surfaces thereon where the cover 320 is removably disposed. The interior space 308 extends between the sidewalls 312 and the bottom wall 318 at the main body 310, or further, between the bottom wall 318 at the main body 310 and the cover wall 322 at the cover 320.

[0046] Fiber optic guide arm 342 is positioned at or near the first end opening 302 within the body 310. The fiber optic guide arm 342 forms a wall extending substantially in the same direction as the sidewall 312 to form a fiber optic guide channel 344 extending in the same direction as the sidewall 312. In various embodiments, the fiber optic guide channel 344 is positioned between the fiber optic guide arm 342 and the sidewall 312, or between a pair of fiber optic guide arms 342. The fiber optic guide channel 344 extends substantially from the interior space 308 to the first opening end 302 to provide a fixing, mounting, or reinforcement structure as lead wiring between the interior spaces 308 and through the first opening end 302 to the exterior of the enclosure 300, at which fiber optic leads can be attached to the body 310. In various embodiments, the fiber optic guidance module 340 is formed by one or more fiber optic guide arms 342 positioned at or near the first end opening 302.

[0047] In some embodiments, the fiber guide arm 342 may include a notch, channel, or gap 346 extending into the fiber guide arm 342, or between a pair of fiber guide arms 342 arranged adjacent to each other along the general extension direction of the fiber guide arm 342 (e.g., between a pair of fiber guide arms 342 arranged adjacent to each other along the general extension direction of the sidewall 312). The gap 346 provides an opening or passage between a pair of channels 344, for example, allowing for a connector or its latch or wing 94 at the fiber optic cable. Figure 20 The fiber is held within gap 346 and allows it to move vertically VV. In various embodiments, gap 346 extends perpendicular to or at an acute angle to channel 344.

[0048] The cable mounting module 350 is positioned on or near the second end opening 304 within the body 310. The cable mounting module 350 forms a cable routing path 355 extending from the internal space 308 to the second end opening 304. The cable mounting module 350 forms a surface where an optical fiber cable is received through the second end opening 304. In various embodiments, the cable mounting module 350 includes a lowest point, a recessed wall, or a groove 352 configured to receive a cable at the cable routing path 355. The groove 352 may extend from the platform wall 354. For example, the platform wall 354 may form a raised wall that extends at least partially in the same direction as the bottom wall 318. The groove 352 extends from the platform wall 354 toward the bottom wall 318 to form a support where the cable is received at the cable routing path 355.

[0049] In some embodiments, an attachment surface 356 is formed at the recess 352. The attachment surface 356 includes bumps, protrusions, points, etc., configured to attach or hold a cable at the cable routing path 355. For example, the attachment surface 356 may provide bumps, protrusions, points, etc., to engage or hook into the cable sheath of the cable, thereby limiting or inhibiting movement of the cable positioned at the cable routing path 355. In other embodiments, the attachment surface 356 includes a plurality of bumps, protrusions, points, etc., extending substantially along the recess 352, for example, along the extension direction of the cable routing path 355 from the second end opening 304 to the interior space 308. The attachment surface 356 may include multiple rows of bumps, protrusions, points, etc., arranged adjacently from the second end opening 304 to the interior space 308 along the extension direction of the cable routing path 355.

[0050] In some other embodiments, the enclosure 300 includes a cap 360 configured to extend over a cable routing path 355, for example, over a cable extending through the cable routing path 355. The cap 360 may include a connector 362 configured to receive a fastener 357 at a fastener interface 359. The fastener interface 359 is configured to extend into the cable mounting module 350, for example, at a platform wall 354, to attach the cap 360 to the cable mounting module 350. The fastener interface 359 may further form an interface at which the fastener 357 is received to extend into the body 310, for example, into a base wall 318, to selectively attach or remove the cable mounting module 350 to the body 310.

[0051] like Figure 14 and Figure 18 As depicted more clearly in some embodiments, the cap 360 includes a snap 364 that extends outside the body 310 and forms a locking position along the vertical direction VV, for example, which can restrict the movement of the cap 360 along the vertical direction VV from the second end opening 304 toward the first end opening 302.

[0052] In various embodiments, the second end wall 328 partially obscures the second end opening 304. The second end wall 328 may be formed together with the cover 320, for example, extending from the cover wall 322 to selectively obscure and expose the second end opening 304 surrounding the cap 360. In some embodiments, the second end wall 328 is attached to, or integrally formed with, the base wall 318, the side wall 312, or both. For example, the second end wall 328 may extend from the side wall 312 toward each other to obscure the second end opening 304 surrounding the cap 360. Thus, the second end opening 304 may form an opening end that substantially corresponds to the cable routing path 355.

[0053] See Figures 8-20 In various embodiments, the cover 320 includes a guide rail 324 configured to be received at the attachment interface 315 of the body 310. (See also...) Figures 8-11 The body 310 includes an attachment interface 315 forming a pin, configured to receive the guide rail 324 at a track channel 325 formed in the guide rail 324. The attachment interface 315 forming the pin may extend into the sidewall 312. The channel 325 may extend at an acute angle between the vertical direction VV and the transverse direction TT, or substantially along the transverse direction TT, or extend in a curved or tortuous path between the vertical direction VV and the transverse direction TT. For example, the channel 325 may extend to allow the cover 320 to be positioned on top of the sidewall 312, for example, at an edge away from the bottom wall 318 or at the top wall 314, when the closure 300 is positioned substantially along the vertical direction VV (i.e., positioned such that the sidewall 312 extends substantially along the vertical direction V of the frame 100).

[0054] Reference Figure 14 The cover 320 may include a fastener 326, such as a fixing screw that facilitates hinged engagement of the cover 320. In various embodiments, the body 310 includes a fastener interface 316 configured to receive the fastener 326 at the cover 320. The fastener interface 316 may be formed at the top wall 314, extending in the same direction as the bottom wall 318, to provide an interface for selectively locking or engaging the cover 320 to the body 310. In various embodiments, the fastener interface 316 includes threads configured to receive threads at the fastener 326, such as allowing selective tightening or locking of the cover 320 to the body 310.

[0055] In some embodiments, for example Figure 12B As shown, the cover 320 may include a portion for receiving a label (e.g., label 327). Label 327 may provide a visual indication, marking, naming, or identification in relation to the optical fiber extending through the channel 344 at the first end opening 302.

[0056] See Figures 12A-12B to Figure 20 In various embodiments, the body 310 includes an attachment interface 313 forming a spring mechanism, such as a spring pin, configured to apply force to the cover 320. In various embodiments, the attachment interface 313 includes a spring pin configured to apply force to the surface of the cover 320 adjacent to the body 310 of the cover wall 322. A guide rail 324 at the cover 320 is positioned in the attachment interface 315, thereby forming a channel at the body 310. The force applied from the attachment interface 313 forming the spring pin generates friction that can hold the cover 320 to the body 310.

[0057] The body 310 may include a fastener interface 317 extending into the sidewall 312. The fastener interface 317 is positioned near the first end opening 302 to form an interface at which the fiber optic guide module 340 can be selectively attached to or removed from the body 310. The fastener interface 317 may form a pin, threaded rod, or member extending into the fiber optic guide module 340 to attach the fiber optic guide module 340 to the body 310.

[0058] Reference Figures 12A-12B to Figure 20 In various embodiments, the body 310 includes a track channel 325 forming a passage or channel, which is configured to receive a guide rail 324 at the cover 320. The guide rail 324 may extend substantially in the same direction as the extension of the sidewall 312. For example, the track channel 325 forming the passage may extend substantially along a vertical direction VV, and the guide rail 324 at the cover 320 may extend substantially along a vertical direction VV (relative to the cover 320 attached to the body 310), for example, allowing the guide rail 324 to be received into the track channel 325 from the second end opening 304. The body 310 may form a stop or latch 319 at or near the first end opening 302 at the track channel 325 to prevent the cover 320 from sliding along the vertical direction VV through the track channel 325 and through the first end opening 302. The main body 310 may form an opening end 321 at the guide rail channel 325 at the second end opening 304 so as to allow the guide rail 324 to slide along the vertical direction VV into the guide rail channel 325 and stop at the locking position 319 at the first end opening 302.

[0059] In some embodiments, the closure device 300 is formed from a sheet metal and one or more forming processes for the sheet metal. For example, Figures 8-11An embodiment of a closure 300 having a body 310 formed of a sheet metal can be shown. The fiber optic guide module 340 can be formed of any suitable material (e.g., a polymer material) and is selectively attached to or removed from the sheet metal body 310, for example, at a fastener interface 317. The cable mounting module 350 can be formed of any suitable material (e.g., a polymer material) and is selectively attached to or removed from the sheet metal body 310, for example, at a fastener interface 359.

[0060] In some embodiments, the closure 300 is formed of a polymer material or other suitable material. The body 310 may include an integrated assembly comprising a fiber optic guide arm 342 and a cable mounting module 350. The body 310 may be formed of any suitable material (e.g., a polymer material) and is configured to selectively accommodate a cap 360.

[0061] In various embodiments, the cover 320 is formed of any suitable material, such as, but not limited to, metal, polymer, rubber, or combinations thereof. The cover 320 may be formed as an integral, monolithic component that may be selectively attached to the body 310, as described in the various embodiments herein.

[0062] Reference Figure 20 An exemplary embodiment of the enclosure 300 is shown, illustrating an input cable 91 and a plurality of output optical fibers 93. The cable 91 extends into the body 310 through a second end opening 304 and is received at a cable mounting module 350. An attachment surface 356 may be attached to an external portion of the cable 91, such as an outer sheath, sleeve, or ferrule, to facilitate cable 91 retention at the cable mounting module 350 at the cable routing path 355. A cap 360 is positioned around the cable 91 and attached to the cable mounting module 350 to provide a locking mechanism that restricts lateral movement of the cable 91 in the lateral direction TT. Optical fibers (not shown) are allowed to disconnect at an internal space 308 and exit from the body 310 through a first end opening 302. Optical fibers 93 may include connectors 94 received at an optical fiber guide module 340. For example, a gap 346 may accommodate a snap or wing at the connector 94, such as to retain the cable between optical fiber guide arms 342 and at the channel 344. Fiber 93 is allowed to leave and operably couple to housing 200 at device 100, such as Figure 3 As shown.

[0063] Return to reference Figure 3In an exemplary embodiment of the cable and fiber optic cabling at device 100, first and second input cables 91A and 91B are housed at device 100 through cable inlet openings 134. Cables 91A and 91B are housed in their respective enclosures 300A and 300B, for example, separated in a vertical direction V. Branch fibers 93A and 93B extend from enclosure 300A and input cable 91A. Branch fibers 93C and 93D extend from enclosure 300B and input cable 91B. Corresponding fiber bundles 93A, 93B, 93C, and 93D are allowed to enter their respective spaces 230 through their respective cabling openings 136, reaching their respective arrays in box 200. The respective array outputs fused output fibers 94A, 94B, 94C, and 94D, which extend from box 200 housing the corresponding fibers 93A, 93B, 93C, and 93D. The fusion splice fiber 94 extends through the opposing first space 133 to exit from the device 100, for example through the exit opening 135.

[0064] refer to Figures 8-20 A reference coordinate axis is provided, in which the vertical direction VV, the lateral direction TT, and the longitudinal direction LL extend in a mutually orthogonal relationship. In various embodiments, the enclosure 300 is configured to receive a cable into the interior space 308 through a second end opening 304 along the vertical direction VV. Fiber optic leads extend from the cable at the interior space 308 and pass through the first end opening 302 from the enclosure 300, for example, generally along the vertical direction VV. Sidewalls 312 extend substantially along the direction of cable extension, for example, substantially along the vertical direction VV. Sidewalls 312 also extend along the lateral direction TT and are separated from each other along the longitudinal direction LL. Openings 302 and 304 are separated from each other along the vertical direction VV. Fiber optic guide arms 342 extend along the lateral direction TT, for example, to provide the depth of the channel 344. Additionally, fiber optic guide arms 342 extend along the vertical direction VV so that the channel 344 extends from the first end opening 302 toward the interior space 308. The gap 346 may extend substantially along the longitudinal direction LL, or additionally along an acute angle between the longitudinal direction LL and the vertical direction VV. The cable routing path 355 extends substantially along the vertical direction VV, for example, from the second end opening 304 toward the interior space 308. The interior space 308 is formed along the vertical direction VV between the end openings 302 and 304, along the transverse direction TT between the bottom wall 318 and the cover wall 322, and along the longitudinal direction LL between the side walls 312.

[0065] In various embodiments, the reference coordinate axes, including the directions VV, TT, LL described with respect to the closure device 300, can respectively correspond to the frame 100 ( Figures 1-7 The vertical direction V, the horizontal direction T, and the longitudinal direction L at point ).

[0066] Embodiments of device 100 may allow frame 110 to form a fusion frame configured for direct mounting to the floor at the data center. Frame 110 or top wall 112 may include attachment interfaces 116 formed for transporting (e.g., lifting) device 100 into the data center via hooks or hangers. Ribs 139, 140 at door 138 may reinforce device 100, for example, facilitating transport and use of device 100. A vertically positioned fusion box 200 facilitates cable management, for example, allowing incoming cables to flow in from the top or bottom of box 200, for example, at opening 212.

[0067] Embodiments of the closure 300 forming the branch kit facilitate access to the interior space 308 for cable management, for example by facilitating access via fasteners 326 forming fixing screws or a cover 320 forming a sliding door. The branch kit cover 320 can be easily removed along with the closure 300 mounted on a table or mounted on the device 100 (e.g., at the frame 110), for example by a user removing it with one hand without tools. The cover 320 also provides an area for cable labeling near an exit location, such as near the first end opening 302.

[0068] Embodiments of the device 100 and enclosure 300 provided herein may facilitate the cabling of ultra-high fiber count (UHFC) cables, each enclosure 300 comprising 144 or more optical fibers, such as 864, 1728, 3456, or 6912 optical fibers. Embodiments of the enclosure 300 may allow access to branching of the cable within the enclosure 300 and protect and manage extensions from the optical fiber cable and exit through a channel 344 formed at the optical fiber guide 342.

[0069] Further aspects of this subject are provided in one or more of the following clauses:

[0070] 1. A cable branch enclosure device 300, comprising: a body 310 having a first end opening 302, a second end opening 304 away from the first end opening 302, and an internal space 308 formed between the first end opening 302 and the second end opening 304, wherein the body 310 includes a pair of sidewalls 312 separated from each other and a bottom wall 318 extending to the sidewalls 312, wherein the sidewalls 312 include channels 325 extending substantially in the same direction as the extending direction of the sidewalls 312; and an optical fiber guiding module 340 including a plurality of optical fiber guiding arms 342, the optical fiber guiding module 340 being positioned near the first end opening 302, wherein the optical fiber guiding arms 342 form an optical fiber guiding channel 34 ... The fiber guide channel 344 extends substantially in the same direction as the first end opening 302 from the separation direction of the second end opening 304; the cable mounting module 350 forms a cable routing path 355 extending from the second end opening 304 into the interior space 308; the cap 360 is attachable to the cable mounting module 350 and forms a cover over the cable routing path 355; and the cover 320 includes a cover wall 322 and a guide rail 324, wherein the guide rail 324 is accommodated in the channel 325 at the body 310, and wherein the body 310 includes a spring mechanism 313 configured to apply force to the cover wall 322 to retain the cover 320 within the channel 325 at the body 310.

[0071] 2. The cable branch enclosure 300 as described in any one or more of the provisions herein, wherein the spring mechanism 313 includes a spring-loaded pin located at a top wall 314 on the body 310, wherein the spring-loaded pin is configured to apply the force to the surface of the cover 320 of the cover wall 322 adjacent to the body 310.

[0072] 3. The cable branch enclosure 300 as described in any one or more of the provisions herein, wherein the cover 320 includes a fastener 326 forming a fixing screw, the fastener 326 being configured to be received at a fastener interface 316 at the top wall 314 of the body 310.

[0073] 4. The cable branch enclosure 300 as described in any one or more of the provisions herein, wherein the channel 325 at the body 310 includes a locking position 319 at a first end opening 302 and an opening end 321 at a second end opening 304, the opening end 321 being configured to receive a guide rail 324 at the cover 320 along the extension direction of the sidewall 312.

[0074] 5. The cable branch enclosure 300 as described in any one or more of the provisions herein, wherein the cable mounting module 350 includes an attachment surface 356 configured to retain a cable at the cable mounting module 350.

[0075] 6. The cable branch closure device 300 as described in any one or more of the provisions herein, wherein the attachment surface 356 includes a protrusion, projection, or point configured to hold the cable at the cable routing path 355.

[0076] 7. The cable branch enclosure 300 as described in any one or more of the provisions herein, wherein the attachment surface 356 includes multiple rows of bumps, protrusions or points arranged adjacent to each other from the second end opening 304 to the interior space 308 along the extension direction of the cable routing path 355.

[0077] 8. The cable branch enclosure 300 as described in any one or more of the provisions herein, wherein the cable mounting module 350 includes a groove 352 extending from a platform wall 354, wherein a cable routing path 355 extends along the groove 352 from a second end opening 304 toward an interior space 308.

[0078] 9. A cable branch enclosure 300 as described in any one or more of the provisions herein, wherein the cover 320 includes a track channel 325 configured to receive an attachment interface 315 forming a pin attached to the sidewall 312.

[0079] 10. The cable branch enclosure 300 as described in any one or more of the provisions herein, wherein the body 310 includes an integrated monolithic assembly comprising a side wall 312, a bottom wall 318, and a top wall 314.

[0080] 11. The cable branch enclosure 300 as described in any one or more of the provisions herein, wherein the body 310 includes an integrated integral assembly having a polymer material or a metal material.

[0081] 12. The cable branch enclosure 300 as described in any one or more of the provisions herein, wherein the body 310 comprises a sheet metal material including a sidewall 312, a bottom wall 318, and a top wall 314, and wherein a fastener interface 317 extends through the sidewall 312 to receive a fastener for attaching an optical fiber guide module 340 to a first end opening 302, and wherein the bottom wall 318 includes a fastener interface 359 for attaching a cable mounting module 350 to a second end opening 304.

[0082] 13. An apparatus 100 for installing telecommunications equipment, the apparatus 100 comprising a frame 110 including a pair of outer sidewalls 128 and a pair or more pairs of inner sidewalls 124, wherein a first space 133 is formed between the outer sidewalls 128 and the inner sidewalls 124, and wherein a second space 230 is formed between the inner sidewalls 124 and a bottom wall 132 extending between the pairs of inner sidewalls 124, wherein a wiring opening 136 extends through the inner sidewalls 124 to allow wiring through the first space 133 to reach the second space 230; a top wall 112 positioned on top of the frame 110, wherein the top wall 112 includes a cable inlet opening 134 allowing wiring to the first space 133, and wherein the top wall 112 includes a cable outlet opening 135 allowing wiring from the opposite first space 133; and a cable branch sealing device 300 as described in any one or more of the provisions herein may be arranged at a sealing device mounting position 131 in the first space 133.

[0083] This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also enables those skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any device or system and performing any combination of methods. The scope of the invention is defined by the claims, but may include other examples that may occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to fall within the scope of the claims if they comprise structural elements that are not different from the literal language of the claims, or if they comprise equivalent structural elements that are not substantially different from the literal language of the claims.

Claims

1. A cable branch enclosure device, comprising: A body comprising a first end opening, a second end opening away from the first end opening, and an internal space formed between the first end opening and the second end opening, wherein the body comprises a pair of sidewalls separated from each other and a bottom wall extending to the sidewalls, wherein the sidewalls comprise channels that extend substantially in the same direction as the sidewalls. The fiber optic guiding module includes a plurality of fiber optic guiding arms, the fiber optic guiding module being positioned near a first end opening, wherein the fiber optic guiding arms form a fiber optic guiding channel, the fiber optic guiding channel extending substantially in the same direction as the first end opening from the separation direction of the second end opening. A cable installation module, the cable installation module including a cable wiring path extending from a second end opening to the internal space; A cap that can be attached to the cable mounting module and form a cover over the cable routing path; as well as A cover, the cover including a cover wall and a guide rail, wherein the guide rail is capable of being received in the channel at the body, and wherein the body includes a spring mechanism configured to apply force to the cover wall to retain the cover within the channel at the body.

2. The cable branch enclosure device of claim 1, wherein the spring mechanism includes a spring pin located at the top wall of the body, wherein the spring pin is configured to apply the force to the surface of the cover wall adjacent to the body.

3. The cable branch enclosure as claimed in claim 1, wherein the cover includes fasteners forming fixing screws, the fixing screws being received at a fastener interface on the top wall of the body.

4. The cable branch enclosure as claimed in claim 1, wherein the channel at the main body includes a locking position at a first end opening and an open end at a second end opening, the open end being configured to receive the guide rail at the cover along the extension direction of the sidewall.

5. The cable branch enclosure as claimed in claim 1, wherein the cable mounting module includes an attachment surface configured to retain the cable at the cable mounting module.

6. The cable branch sealing device of claim 5, wherein the attachment surface includes a protrusion, projection, or point configured to hold the cable at the cable routing path.

7. The cable branch enclosure as claimed in claim 5, wherein the attachment surface comprises multiple rows of bumps, protrusions or points, the multiple rows of bumps, protrusions or points being arranged adjacent to each other from the second end opening to the interior space along the extension direction of the cable wiring path.

8. The cable branch enclosure device of claim 1, wherein the cable mounting module includes a groove extending from the platform wall, wherein the cable wiring path extends along the groove from a second end opening toward the interior space.

9. The cable branch enclosure of claim 1, wherein the cover includes a track channel configured to receive an attachment interface forming a pin attached to the sidewall.

10. The cable branch enclosure device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the main body comprises an integrated integral component, the integrated integral component comprising the side wall, the bottom wall and the top wall.

11. The cable branch sealing device of claim 10, wherein the main body comprises an integrated integral component, the integrated integral component comprising a polymer material or a metal material.

12. The cable branch enclosure of claim 1, wherein the body comprises a sheet metal material including the sidewall, the bottom wall, and the top wall, and wherein a fastener interface extends through the sidewall to receive a fastener for attaching the fiber optic guide module to a first end opening, and wherein the bottom wall includes a fastener interface for attaching the cable mounting module to a second end opening.

13. An apparatus for installing telecommunications equipment, the apparatus comprising: A frame comprising a pair of outer sidewalls and a pair or more pairs of inner sidewalls, wherein a first space is formed between the outer sidewalls and the inner sidewalls, and wherein a second space is formed between the inner sidewalls and a bottom wall, the bottom wall extending between the pairs of inner sidewalls, wherein a wiring opening extends through the inner sidewalls to allow wiring to pass through the first space to reach the second space. A top wall, positioned at the top of the frame, wherein the top wall includes a cable inlet opening allowing cabling to a first space, and wherein the top wall includes a cable outlet opening allowing cabling from an opposing first space; A cable branch enclosure device, which can be arranged at an enclosure installation position in a first space, the cable branch enclosure device comprising: A body comprising a first end opening, a second end opening away from the first end opening, and an internal space formed between the first end opening and the second end opening, wherein the body comprises a pair of sidewalls separated from each other and a bottom wall extending to the sidewalls, wherein the sidewalls comprise channels that extend substantially in the same direction as the sidewalls. The fiber optic guiding module includes a plurality of fiber optic guiding arms, the fiber optic guiding module being positioned near a first end opening, wherein the fiber optic guiding arms form a fiber optic guiding channel, the fiber optic guiding channel extending substantially in the same direction as the first end opening from the separation direction of the second end opening. A cable installation module, the cable installation module including a cable wiring path extending from a second end opening to the internal space; A cap, which can be attached to the cable mounting module and form a cover over the cable routing path; and A cover, the cover including a cover wall and a guide rail, wherein the guide rail is capable of being received in the channel at the body, and wherein the body includes a spring mechanism configured to apply force to the cover wall to retain the cover within the channel at the body.

14. The device of claim 13, wherein the cable is configured to enter the first space through the cable inlet opening and be received at a second end opening at the body of the cable branch closure device, and wherein a plurality of optical fibers are configured to extend from the first end opening at the body of the cable branch closure device through the wiring opening at the inner sidewall into the second space.

15. The device of claim 13, wherein the spring mechanism includes a spring pin located at a top wall of the body, wherein the spring pin is configured to apply the force to the surface of the cover wall adjacent to the body.

16. The device of claim 13, wherein the cover includes a fastener forming a fixing screw, the fixing screw being received at a fastener interface on the top wall of the body.

17. The device of claim 13, wherein the channel at the body includes a locking position at a first end opening and an open end at a second end opening, the open end being configured to receive the guide rail at the cover along the extension direction of the sidewall.

18. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the cable mounting module includes an attachment surface configured to retain a cable at the cable mounting module.

19. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the attachment surface includes a protrusion, projection, or point configured to hold the cable at the cable routing path.

20. The device of claim 13, wherein the cover includes a track channel configured to receive an attachment interface forming a pin extending into the sidewall.

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