Cable attachment unit and telecommunications closure

Abstract

A cable attachment unit is provided, including a first body having an attachment interface at which a cable is attachable, the first body including a gripping portion configured to promote attachment of the cable to the first body. An attachment body is extended from the first body and includes a first step extending along a vertical direction to a first height. A face extends from the first height, and a second step extends from the face and along the vertical direction to a second height greater than the first height. The second step forms a barrier configured to inhibit extension of a central strength member of the cable along an axial direction. A platform extends between the attachment body and the first body. The first step at the attachment body extends along the vertical direction from the platform.

Description

CABLE ATTACHMENT UNIT AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS CLOSUREFIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to telecommunications equipment, and more particularly to equipment for fiber optic cables.BACKGROUND

[0002] Telecommunications and fiber optic equipment, and users and technicians for such, require tooling for gripping and manipulating a cable and a central strength member (CSM) of the cable. A ty pical procedure for operating on a cable, such as in outside plant (OSP) conditions, may include gripping an outer sheath of the cable. A user, such as a technician, may require gripping the CSM of the cable to prevent the cable from protruding into a fiber optic closure.

[0003] However, users experience difficulty' attaching tooling to the CSM of the cable. Such difficulties include attaching the CSM to the tooling without kinking, crushing, or other deformation of a loose buffer tube.

[0004] Large cables may7have a large-diameter CSM. Additionally, or alternatively, cables may include additional surfaces (e.g., plastic layer or thickness) that may increase the diameter of the cable, or the CSM of the cable. For instance, a CSM of the cable having a diameter of 10 millimeters or greater may generally be too large for known tooling, or may require using a different tool to work with the larger- diameter cable and CSM. A user may require removing surfaces and layers from the cable (such as a plastic layer) to utilize existing tooling. However, removing layers of the cable may cause kinking, cutting or breakage, or other undesired deformation at the loose buffer tube.

[0005] A user utilizing known cable tooling for gripping the cable will not, in various instances, require gripping and attaching a CSM of the cable. In such instances, the portions of the tooling that include an attachment for the CSM are not required and may inhibit other use, operation, movement, or manipulation of the tooling or entry’ and egress of fibers at the closure.

[0006] Accordingly, telecommunications tooling, such as tooling for a fiber optic cable, including improvements that address the above-described issues, are desired in the art and would be beneficial and advantageous.BRIEF DESCRIPTION

[0007] Aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the following description, or may be understood from the description, or may be learned through practice of the invention.

[0008] An aspect of the present disclosure is directed to a cable attachment unit. A reference axial direction, vertical direction, and lateral direction are formed. The cable attachment unit includes a first body including an attachment interface at which a cable extending along the axial direction is attachable to the first body. The body includes a gripping portion positioned adjacent to the attachment interface. The gripping portion is configured to promote attachment of the cable to the first body. An attachment body is extended from the first body. The attachment body includes a first step extending along the vertical direction to a first height. A face extends along the axial direction from the first height. A second step extends from the face and along the vertical direction to a second height greater than the first height. The second step forms a barrier configured to inhibit extension of a central strength member of the cable along the axial direction. A platform extends between the attachment body and the first body. The first step at the attachment body extends along the vertical direction from the platform.

[0009] These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following description and 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.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

[0010] A full and enabling disclosure of the present invention, including the best mode thereof, directed to one of ordinary skill in the art, is set forth in the specification, which makes reference to the appended figures, in which:

[0011] Fig. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a cable attachment unit in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

[0012] Fig. 2 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of the cable attachment unit in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

[0013] Fig. 3 illustrates a plan view of an embodiment of the cable attachment unit in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

[0014] Fig. 4 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a wall for the cable attachment unit in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

[0015] Fig. 5 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of the cable attachment unit, in which components are omitted for clarity, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

[0016] Fig. 6 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a spacer for the cable attachment unit in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

[0017] Fig. 7 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of the cable attachment unit, including an embodiment of the spacer, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

[0018] Fig. 8 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of the cable attachment unit, including an embodiment of the spacer, and illustrating a schematic cable portion attached thereto, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

[0019] Fig. 9 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of the cable attachment unit, including an embodiment of the spacer, and illustrating a schematic cable portion attached thereto, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

[0020] Fig. 10 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a bracket for the cable attachment unit in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

[0021] Fig. 11 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a cable attachment unit in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

[0022] Fig. 12A illustrates a detailed perspective view of a portion of an embodiment of the cable attachment unit of Fig. 11 in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

[0023] Fig. 12B illustrates a detailed perspective view of a portion of an embodiment of the cable attachment unit of Fig. 11 in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

[0024] Fig. 13A illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a cable attachment unit in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

[0025] Fig. 13B illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of the cable attachment unit of Fig. 13A in a detached state in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

[0026] Fig. 14A illustrates a bottom perspective view of an embodiment of a cable attachment unit in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

[0027] Fig. 14B illustrates a bottom perspective view of an embodiment of the cable attachment unit of Fig. 14A in a detached state in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

[0028] Fig. 15 illustrates a plan view of an embodiment of a cable attachment unit in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

[0029] Fig. 16 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a cable attachment unit at a telecommunications closure in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

[0030] Fig. 17 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a first body of a cable attachment unit attached to a telecommunications closure in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

[0031] Fig. 18 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a bushing for a cable for a telecommunications closure in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

[0032] Fig. 19 illustrates a cutaway perspective view of an embodiment of a bushing, with a cable extending therethrough, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

[0033] Fig. 20 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a bushing, with a cable extending therethrough, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0034] Repeat use of reference characters in the present specification and drawings is intended to represent the same or analogous features or elements of the present invention.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] Reference now will be made in detail to embodiments of the invention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the invention, not limitation of the invention. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present invention without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present invention covers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0036] The detailed description uses numerical and letter designations to refer to features in the drawings. Like or similar designations in the drawings and description have been used to refer to like or similar parts of the invention.

[0037] As used herein, the terms “first”, “second”, and “third” may be used interchangeably to distinguish one component from another and are not intended to signify location or importance of the individual components. The singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The terms “coupled,” “fixed,” “attached to,” and the like refer to both direct coupling, fixing, or attaching, as well as indirect coupling, fixing, or attaching through one or more intermediate components or features, unless otherwise specified herein. As used herein, the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “includes,” “including,” “has,” “having” or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of features is not necessarily limited only to those features but may include other features not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. Further, unless expressly stated to the contrary, “or” refers to an inclusive- or and not to an exclusive- or. For example, a condition A or B is satisfied by any one of the following: A is true (or present) and B is false (or not present), A is false (or not present) and B is true (or present), and both A and B are true (or present).

[0038] Terms of approximation, such as “about,” “generally,” “approximately,” or “substantially,” include values within ten percent greater or less than the stated value. When used in the context of an angle or direction, such terms include within tendegrees greater or less than the stated angle or direction. For example, “generally vertical” includes directions within ten degrees of vertical in any direction, e.g., clockwise or counter-clockwise.

[0039] Benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems are described below with regard to specific embodiments. However, the benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any feature(s) that may cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become more pronounced are not to be construed as a critical, required, or essential feature of any or all the claims.

[0040] Embodiments of a cable attachment unit 100, and a telecommunications closure 200, are provided herein that address one or more issues described herein. Referring now to the drawings, a reference cable extension axis 101 extends co- directi onal to an axial direction A. The cable extension axis 101 generally depicts a route or extension of a cable, or portion thereof, such as a central strength member (CSM) of the cable, through the CAU 100 and the closure 200, such as configured as a fiber optic closure. A reference vertical direction 102 and lateral direction 103 extend mutually orthogonal to one another and the cable extension axis 101.

[0041] Referring to Figs. 1-16, embodiments of the CAU 100 include a first body 110 configured to interface with the closure 200, such as depicted at Fig. 16. The body 110 includes an opening 114 configured to receive a fastener 201 (e.g., mechanical fastener, such as, but not limited to, a threaded shank, bolt and nut, screw, tie rod, etc., or a latch or clamp) to attach the CAU 100 to the closure 200. The opening 114 may form a hole or slot configured to align to a hole or other portion configured to receive the fastener 201 at the closure 200.

[0042] Referring to Fig. 16, the closure 200 forms one or more cavities 202 configured to accommodate a cable 52 extending therethrough. The cavity 202 is formed between sidewalls 208 extending along an axial direction A. An outer wall 203 of the closure 200 forms an egress opening 204 through which the body 110 of the CAU 100 is extendable into the cavity 202. A gel (not depicted) may fill the cavity 202. The cable 52 extends through the gel at the cavity 202.

[0043] In various embodiments, the body 110 includes an attachment interface 118 at which the cable 52 is attachable to the CAU 100 at a first end at the body 110. The attachment interface 118 may be configured to receive a clamp 119 (Fig. 9, Fig.17), such as a hose clamp or other appropriate type of binding device, to couple or attach the body 110 to the cable 52.

[0044] Referring generally to Figs. 1-16, in various embodiments, the CAU 100 includes a central strength member (CSM) attachment body 130 extending from the first body 110. A platform 120 extends between and couples the CSM attachment body 130 and the first body 110. The CSM attachment body 130 includes a first step 131 forming a wall extending from the platform 120. The first step 131 extends along the vertical direction 102 to a first height. A face 134 forms a plane at the first height extending substantially along the axial direction A and the lateral direction 103. A second step 132 extends along the vertical direction 103 from the face 134 to a second height greater than the first height of the first step 131. The second step 132 forms a barrier configured to inhibit extension of the cable along the axial direction A. For instance, the second step 132 may form a wall or barrier extending along the vertical direction 102 to prevent protrusion of a central strength member (CSM) 50 of a cable along the axial direction A into the closure 200.

[0045] In various embodiments, the first step 131 and the second step 132 are separated along the axial direction A. The face 134 extends along the axial direction A between the first step 131 and the second step 132.

[0046] The face 134 forms a plane raised along the vertical direction 103 positioned above the platform 120, such as positioning the face 134 more proximate along the vertical direction 102 to a CSM 50, 51 of the cable than the platform 120. Such positioning of the face 134 may promote pulling the CSM 50 of the cable, such as of cable 52, to align with the attachment interface 118, a rear cable attachment at the CSM attachment body 130, or both, such as further described herein.

[0047] The body 110 includes a gripping portion 112 configured to promote attachment, adhesion, gripping, or sticking of the cable 52 to the body 110. In various embodiments, the gripping portion 112 includes protrusions or raised surfaces, such as bumps, spikes, knurls, or teeth (e.g., such as pyramid, diamond, rectangular, or polygon-shaped bumps or teeth), extending from the body 110 toward the cable 52. In some embodiments, the gripping portion 112 is positioned adjacent to the attachment interface 118, such as adjacent along the lateral direction 103 or a radial direction extending perpendicular to the cable extension axis 101. The clamp 119 (Fig. 9, Fig.17) at the attachment interface 118 may be tightened and force the cable 52 onto the gripping portion 112 (e.g., toward the cable 52 substantially along the vertical direction).

[0048] The CAU 100 may position the cable 52 such that an outer jacket of the cable 52 extends along the axial direction A over the body 110 to the gripping portion 112. In various embodiments, the gripping portion 112 at the body 110 is positioned substantially co-planar to the platform 120. The first step 131 may extend along the vertical direction 102 to the first height greater than a plane at which the gripping portion 112 at the body 110 is positioned.

[0049] Referring briefly to Fig. 10, in some embodiments, a bracket 170 is selectively positioned between the clamp 119 and the cable 52 at the attachment interface 118. The bracket 170 includes a bracket wall 174 configured to extend co- directional to an arc or circumference the cable. The bracket wall 174 includes protrusions 176 configured to extend substantially along the vertical direction 102 toward the cable. For instance, the bracket wall 174 includes a first side 171 configured to abut to the cable 52. or an intermediate surface, or an outer jacket of the cable 52, more proximately than an opposite side second side 172 of the bracket wall 174. Protrusions 176 may extend from the first side 171 toward the cable, such as depicted and described in regard to protrusions 152 further described herein.

[0050] Bracket 170 may include walls or castellations 178 extending from the second side 172. The second side 172 may be configured to receive the clamp 119. As such, the bracket 170 is positioned between the clamp 119 and the cable 52. Castellations 178 may extend from the second side 172 to position the clamp 119 alongside the second side 172 between sets of axially separated castellations 178. As such, the castellations 178 may limit movement of the clamp 119 and bracket 170 relative to one another. Still further, protrusions 176 at the bracket 170 may adhere the bracket 170 to the cable, such as to limit relative movement of the cable and the bracket 170.

[0051] Referring to Figs. 6-9, in some embodiments, a spacer 160 is selectively attachable onto the body 110 at the gripping portion 1 12 at the body 110. The spacer 160 forms a body including a gripping portion 162 configured substantially similarly as described in regard to gripping portion 112 at the body 110, such as includingprotrusion or raised surfaces positioned adjacent to the attachment interface 118. For instance, the spacer 160 is receivable onto the body 110 and selectively positionable using attachment surfaces 164. The attachment surface 164 may form a latch, tooth, pin, or snap configured to position the body 110. The spacer 160 may include a snap or latch 166 configured to attach to an attachment member 126 extending from the body 110. The attachment member 126 may extend along the lateral direction 103 to position the gripping portion 162 of the spacer 160 over the gripping portion 112 at the body 110. Latch 166 may include an opening 168 through which the attachment member 126 may extend to wrap, latch, or connect the latch 166 to the attachment member 126. In various embodiments, the latch 166 may form an elastic, compliant structure configured to bend or flex to permit selective attachment and detachment of the spacer 160 at the body 110.

[0052] The spacer 160 is releasably attachable to the first body 110. The spacer 160 forms a body extending along the vertical direction 102 from the gripping portion 112 at the first body 110. The gripping portion 162 at the spacer 160 (e g., a second gripping portion) is positioned above the gripping portion 112 at the first body 110 when attached to the first body 110, such as positioned more proximate to the cable 52 along the vertical direction 102.

[0053] The spacer 160 is releasably attachable onto the body 110 to provide support for a cable 52 of various relatively smaller diameters, such as in contrast to the cable receivable at the gripping portion 112 at the body 110. For instance, the gripping portion 162 at the spacer 160 is positioned radially inward from the cable 52 relative to the gripping portion 112 at the body 110, such as to position a gripping portion more proximate to a smaller-diameter cable. The cable 52 may position onto the gripping portion 162 at the spacer 160. In various embodiments, the gripping portion 1 2 is substantially co-planar to the face 134 at the CSM attachment body 130 when the spacer 160 is attached to the first body 110. Embodiments of the spacer 160 may align or center a smaller-diameter embodiment of the cable 52 within the gel at the cavity 202. For instance, smaller-diameter embodiments of the cable 52 may include a diameter less than approximately one (1) inch, or less than approximately 0.5 inches.

[0054] In various embodiments, the CSM attachment body 130 includes a fastener opening 138 (e g., face fastener opening) extending into the face 134. A fastener 140 is receivable into the fastener opening 138 to couple the portion 50 of the cable 52. such as the CSM, to the CSM attachment body 130. In various embodiments, the fastener 140 includes a threaded shank, such as, but not limited to, a bolt, a screw, a tie-rod, etc.

[0055] As described herein, the reference cable extension axis 101 extends co- directional to the axial direction A. In various embodiments, the cable extension axis 101 extends co-directi onal to the axial direction A through the gripping portion 112 at the first body 110. The fastener opening 138 is offset along the lateral direction 103 from the cable extension axis 101. In various embodiments, the fastener opening 138 includes a threaded interface extending into the CSM attachment body 130, such as to receive a corresponding thread at the fastener 140.

[0056] Referring to Fig. 3 and Fig. 8, the fastener opening 138 including the threaded interface is configured as a clockwise-tightening thread relative to the cable portion 50 positioned adjacent to the face 134. such as depicted via arrow CW. For instance, the CAU 100 may be configured for an extension of the fastener 140 into the fastener opening 138 at the CSM attachment body 130 along the vertical direction 102. A user may rotate the fastener 140 along direction CW to thread the fastener 140 into the CSM attachment body 130. In various embodiments, the fastener opening 138 is positioned at the face 134 offset from the cable extension axis 101 along the lateral direction 103 such that an extension of the cable 52 or cable portion 50 along the axial direction A from the first body 110 toward the CSM attachment body 130 is adjacent along the lateral direction 103 from the fastener opening 138. Extension of the cable 52 or cable portion 50 along the cable extension axis 101 from the first body 110 toward the CSM attachment body 130, such as depicted via arrow 104, is co- directional along the axial direction A to the clockwise-tightening thread (shown as direction arrow 105) relative to the cable positioned adjacent to the face 134. As such, when the user tightens the fastener 140 into the CSM attachment body 130. friction between the fastener 140 and the cable portion 50 may push the cable 52 or cable portion 50 along the axial direction A toward the second step 132. Such arrangement of the fastener opening 138 relative to the cable and cable extension axis 101 maypromote maintaining a desired positioning of the cable or cable portion at the CAU 100. Additionally, or alternatively, such arrangement of the fastener opening 138 relative to the cable and cable extension axis 101 may mitigate loss of desired position of the cable or cable portion by mitigating pushing the cable or cable portion toward the body 110 or closure 200 at which the body 110 may be positioned.

[0057] Referring to Figs. 1-4, in various embodiments, the CAU 100 includes a bracket, washer, or wall 150 configured to extend substantially co-directi onal to the face 134 at the CSM attachment body 130. For instance, the wall 150 extends along the lateral direction 103 substantially co-directional to the face 134. The wall 150 includes a fastener opening 158 (e.g., wall fastener opening) extending through the wall 150. The fastener opening 158 is configured to correspond to the fastener opening 138 extending into the face 134. Embodiments of the fastener 140 are receivable into the fastener openings 138, 158 to position the cable portion 50 between the wall 150 and the CSM attachment body 130, such as between the wall 150 and the face 134.

[0058] Referring to Fig. 4. in some embodiments, the wall 150 includes a raised wall, bump, tooth, spike, or other protrusion 152 extending toward the cable portion 50 when positioned between the wall 150 and the CSM attachment body 130. For instance, the protrusion 152 extends substantially along the vertical direction 102 from the wall 150 toward the cable or cable portion positioned between the wall 150 and the face 134.

[0059] In some embodiments, the wall 150 includes a vertical extension portion 156 configured to extend at least partially along the vertical direction 102 toward a cable positioned between the wall 150 and the CSM attachment body 130. The vertical extension portion 156 may extend straight or curved to latch, hook, or wrap toward the cable or cable portion 50. The vertical extension portion 156 may extend from a main wall 154 extending substantially co-planar to the face 134. The fastener opening 158 may extend through the main wall 154, such as described herein.

[0060] Referring generally to the figures, in various embodiments, the CSM attachment body 130 forms a pocket 135 into which the wall 150 is at least partially extendable. For instance, the pocket 135 may be configured to receive the vertical extension portion 156 of the wall 150 from the main wall 154. The pocket 135 mayextend along the axial direction A, such as corresponding to an extension of the wall 150.

[0061] In some embodiments, the CSM attachment body 130 includes a member 133 extending along the vertical direction 102 from the first step 131. The pocket 135 may extend along the axial direction A between the member 133 and the second step 132. In various embodiments, the first body 110 is positioned relative to the CSM attachment body 130 such that the cable extension axis 101 extending through the first body 110, along the platform 120, and through the CSM attachment body 130 extends between the member 133 and the fastener opening 138. As such, the cable 52, or portion 50 thereof, is configured to extend along the cable extension axis 101 from the first body 110 and between the member 133 and the fastener opening 138. Such extension of the cable 52 or cable portion 50 may further position the cable relative to the fastener opening 138 such that tightening of the fastener 140 such as described herein further pushes the cable, or portions thereof, toward the member 133. The member 133 may promote retention of the cable along the face 134 at the CSM attachment body 130.

[0062] In various embodiments, the CAU 100 includes a separation interface 122 positioned along the axial direction A between the first body 110 and the CSM attachment body 130. The separation interface 122 is configured to facilitate detachment of the CSM attachment body 130 from the first body 110, such as depicted at Figs. 13A-13B and Figs. l4A-14B. For instance, in some embodiments, a user may not require use of the CSM attachment body 130 for attaching the CSM (e.g., cable portion 50) of the cable, such as cable 52 configured for wrapping tube cables, or cables where central strength members are integral to a cable jacket. The separation interface 122 may promote detachment of the CSM attachment body 130 from the first body 1 10, such as may avoiding inhibiting entry or egress of cables, or portions thereof, through the CAU 100 or closure 200.

[0063] Referring to Figs. 1-3, in some embodiments, the separation interface 122 forms a neck extending less than the platform 120 along the lateral direction 103. The separation interface 122 forming the neck may include a brittle material, porous structure, crack, divot, dimple, or other physical or material property facilitating detachment or breakage at the separation interface 122.

[0064] Referring briefly to Fig. 17, an exemplary7illustration of a cable 52 at the first body 110 is depicted in which the CSM attachment body 130 is detached from the first body 1 10 at the separation interface 122.

[0065] Referring to Figs. 11-14, in some embodiments, the separation interface 122 includes a key 212 selectively insertable to a slot 222. In embodiments depicted in Figs. 11-14, the key 212 is formed at the CSM attachment body 130 and the slot 222 is formed at the first body 110. However, in other embodiments, the key 212 is formed at the first body 110 and the slot 222 is formed at the CSM attachment body 130. As such, the key 212 is formed at one of the first body 110 or the CSM attachment body 130 and the slot 222 is formed at the other of the first body 110 or the CSM attachment body 130. The key 212 is insertable into the slot 222 to selectively and releasably attach the CSM attachment body 130 to the first body 110.

[0066] In various embodiments, such as depicted in further detail in Figs. 12A- 12B, the slot 222 extends along the lateral direction 103, and the key 212 includes a key head 214 extending along the lateral direction 103 corresponding to the slot 222. The separation interface 122 may include a detent wall 215. 225 configured to inhibit movement of the key 212 along a direction along the vertical direction 102. For instance, the key 212 and slot 222 may include respective detent walls 215, 225 extending along the axial direction A to inhibit movement of the key 212 along the vertical direction 102 through the slot 222. As such, the detent wall 215, 225 may provide a floor to prevent the key 212 from sliding along the vertical direction 102 through the slot 222, such as via gravity.

[0067] Referring briefly to Figs. 14A-14B, in some embodiments, detent wall 225 may include a notch 224 configured to receive a detent wall 227 at the CSM attachment body 130. The detent wall 227 may extend along the axial direction A to catch into the notch 224 extending into the body 110, such as may fix a position (e.g., a lateral position) of the bodies 110, 130 to one another.

[0068] In some embodiments, the key 212 includes a gap 218 extending along the axial direction A through the key head 214. For instance, the key head 214 may include a pair of heads extending along the lateral direction 103 from the gap 218, such as to configure the key head 214 to elastically deflect along the lateral direction 103. The gap 218 may promote deflection of portions of the key 212, such as the keyhead 214, and promote selective attachment and detachment of the bodies 110, 130 to and from one another.

[0069] In still various embodiments, the separation interface 122 includes an angled wall 216, 226 extending along the vertical direction 102. The key 212 and slot 222 each include corresponding portions of the angled wall 216, 226. In various embodiments, the angle extends such as to form a greater or lesser cross-sectional opening along the vertical direction 102. In an embodiment, the angled wall 216. 226 extends along the vertical direction 102 from the detent wall 215, 225. The angle at the angled wall 216, 226 may generally extend greater than zero degrees and less than 90 degrees. The angled wall 216, 226 may require the user to slide or lift the CSM attachment body 130 along the angle corresponding to the angled wall 216. 226 (e.g., oblique relative to the vertical direction 102). As such, the angled wall 216, 226 may promote retention of the bodies 110, 130 to one another, or furthermore, mitigate undesired or accidental detachment of the bodies 110, 130, such as while a user works at cables at the enclosure or CAU.

[0070] Still further, embodiments of the CAU 100 including the separation interface 122 having the key 212 and slot 222 may facilitate a user to re-use the CSM attachment body 130.

[0071] Embodiments of the CSM attachment body 130 provided herein may prevent a central strength member (e.g., portion 50) of the cable 52 from entering into the closure 200 during operation by a user. For instance, fastener openings, fasteners, walls, protrusions or raised surfaces, or combinations thereof, such as described herein may desirably attach and inhibit movement of the cable, or portions thereof, such as the central strength member, from undesired movement or displacement during an operation (e.g., splicing, routing, etc.).

[0072] In various embodiments, the first step 131 and face 134 may position the CSM of the cable above the platform 120, such as to facilitate a user pulling the CSM of the cable 52 and align with one or more brackets 150, 170. Bracket 150, 170, separately or in combination, may be configured to withstand hundreds of pounds of force to hold the cable, or the central strength member thereof, in position such as described herein, such as to prevent protrusion into the enclosure (e.g., closure 200).Protrusions may further promote retention of the cable, or portions thereof, in position as the user performs operations at the cable.

[0073] In an exemplary embodiment, an outer jacket of the cable 52 extends approximately to the clamp 119, bracket 170, or both, along the axial direction A. For instance, the cable 52 may extend from and across body 110 to the attachment interface 118 along the axial direction A. In some embodiments, the cable 52 may extend for a distance beyond the attachment interface 118. In some embodiments, the distance is up to approximately 0. 125 inches along the axial direction A from the first body 110 toward the CSM attachment body 130.

[0074] In an exemplary' embodiment, platform 120 may extend approximately two (2) inches or less from the attachment interface 118. spacer 160, or gripping portion 112, 162, to the first step 131. Exposure of the CSM of the cable 52 may be approximately equal to or less than to an extension of the platform 120 along the axial direction A. For instance, the CSM of the cable 52 may extend for approximately two (2) inches or less from the attachment interface 118. spacer 160, or gripping portion 112, 162. to the first step 131 or the fastener opening 138 generally at which the CSM, depicted at portion 50, is gripped at the CSM attachment body 130. As such, a risk of breaking the CSM may be mitigated.

[0075] In some embodiments, the body 110 may include an elongated portion 111 extending along the axial direction A. Referring to Fig. 16, the elongated portion 111 may extend at least partially through the egress opening 204 at the closure 200. The elongated portion 111 may include a detent or stop wall 124 extending laterally, such as to inhibit movement of the CAU 100 along the axial direction A. The stop wall 124 may be configured to rest or abut against the outer wall 203.

[0076] Referring now to Figs. 16-17, the closure 200 may include one or more interfaces at which the first body 110, such as forming a cable collar assembly, is attachable. The body 110 may be utilized to initially position cable 52 in the cavities 202, and to prevent radial or axial movement of the cables 52 once connected and sealed within the closure 200. Each body 110 may be insertable into one of the plurality of cavities 202, such as at a cable retention portion. During assembly, the clamp 119 may be routed through a passage 107 and around the cable 52. A fastener 117 may be utilized to tighten the clamp 119. During such tightening, the fastener 117may become positioned in the fastener opening 114, and may advantageously avoid impeding any connections or sealing within the base closure 200.

[0077] Referring now to Figs. 18-21, in some embodiments, a bushing 300 may be provided around the cable 52 such that the cable 52 extends through the bushing 300. The first body 110 and associated cable 52 may then be inserted into cavity 202 (Fig. 16). For example, the body 110 may be inserted into a cable retention portion of the cavity 202. After such insertion, a wedge assembly (not depicted) may be connected to the closure 200. In exemplary embodiments, once such connection has occurred, the bushing 300 may be inserted into the egress opening 204, and may be retained in the passage by the outer wall 203.

[0078] Referring still to Figs. 18-21. the bushing 300 may be included around the cable 52. The bushing 300 may position the cable 52 further away from the gripping portion 1 12 at the first body 110. As such, the user may utilize the spacer 160 to position the gripping portion 162 more proximately to the cable extending through the bushing 300. Each bushing 300 may be disposed in one of the plurality of passages 204. Cable 52 may extend through each bushing 300 as the cable 52 enters the closure 200.

[0079] The bushing 300 may include a body 302 which defines a central passage 304 through which the cable 52 extends. In exemplary embodiments, the body 302 may be generally conical. Further, in exemplary embodiments, the central passage 304 or at least a portion thereof may be conical, and thus may taper from a distal end to a proximal end (the proximal end being disposed more into the closure 200 than the distal end). In some embodiments, the body 302 may be a single, unitary structure. The body 302 may further include a slot 306 extending and defined therethrough.The slot 306 may be in communication with the central passage 304, such that the cable 52 can be inserted through the slot 306 into the central passage 304. In other embodiments, (not depicted), the body 302 may include a first portion and a second portion which can be connected together (e.g. around the cable 52) to form the body 302.

[0080] In exemplary embodiments, bushing 300, such as the body 302 thereof, may further include a tip 308 which defines a retention lip 310. The retention lip 310 may in exemplary embodiments be generally annular.

[0081] In exemplary embodiments, bushing 300, such as the body 302 thereof, may further include an exterior channel 312. The exterior channel 312 may in exemplary embodiments be generally annular. One or more tie-wraps 314 may be utilized to secure bushing 300 around a cable 52, and the tie-wrap(s) may be positioned in the exterior channel 312.

[0082] Bushings 300 may be formed from a thermoplastic elastomer or a rubber. Alternatively, bushing 300 may be formed from a polyethylene, such as a low density polyethylene. Alternatively, other suitable thermoplastics may be utilized.

[0083] Embodiments of the CAU 100 depicted and described herein may facilitate attaching larger-diameter cables including larger-diameter central strength members while mitigating kinking, crushing, cutting, or other undesired deformation of the cable, such as loose buffer tubes. Embodiments provided herein may promote attaching larger-diameter cables with larger-diameter central strength members without removing plastic or other surrounding or sheathing material from the central strength member. Facilitating use of larger-diameter cables and central strength members may allow for a greater range, or unbounded range, of diameters of cables and central strength members to be accommodated by the CAU 100.

[0084] Still various embodiments of the CAU 100 provided herein may promote faster and easier assembly of cables with central strength members, including cables with singular or plural central strength members.

[0085] Embodiments of the CAU 100 including protrusions or gripping portions such as described herein may facilitate use with central strength members having plastic coatings that may otherwise have too little friction to retain in position.

[0086] Further aspects of the disclosure are provided in one or more of the following clauses:

[0087] 1. A cable attachment unit, wherein a reference axial direction, vertical direction, and lateral direction are formed, the cable attachment unit including a first body including an attachment interface at which a cable extending along the axial direction is attachable to the body, wherein the body includes a gripping portion positioned adjacent to the attachment interface, wherein the gripping portion is configured to promote attachment of the cable to the first body; an attachment body extended from the first body, the attachment body including a first step extendingalong the vertical direction to a first height, a face extending along the axial direction from the first height, and a second step extending from the face and along the vertical direction to a second height greater than the first height, wherein the second step forms a barrier configured to inhibit extension of the cable along the axial direction; and a platform extending between the attachment body and the first body, wherein the first step at the attachment body extends along the vertical direction from the platform.

[0088] 2. The cable attachment unit of any one or more clauses herein, wherein the first step and the second step at the attachment body are separated along the axial direction, and wherein the face extends between the first step and the second step.

[0089] 3. The cable attachment unit of any one or more clauses herein, wherein the gripping portion is substantially co-planar to the platform.

[0090] 4. The cable attachment unit of any one or more clauses herein, wherein the first step extends along the vertical direction to the first height greater than a plane at which the gripping portion is positioned.

[0091] 5. The cable attachment unit of any one or more clauses herein, the attachment body including a face fastener opening extending into the face, wherein a fastener is receivable into the fastener opening to couple the cable to the attachment body.

[0092] 6. The cable attachment unit of any one or more clauses herein, the cable attachment unit including a reference cable extension axis extending co-directional to the axial direction, wherein the cable extension axis extends co-directional to the axial direction through the gripping portion at the first body, and wherein the face fastener opening is offset along the lateral direction from the cable extension axis.

[0093] 7. The cable attachment unit of any one or more clauses herein, wherein the face fastener opening is offset along the lateral direction from a reference cable extension axis extending co-directional to the axial direction, wherein the face fastener opening includes a threaded interface extending into the attachment body, and wherein the threaded interface is configured as a clockwise-tightening thread relative to the cable positioned adjacent to the face.

[0094] 8. The cable attachment unit of any one or more clauses herein, wherein the face fastener opening is positioned at the face offset from the cable extension axisalong the lateral direction such that an extension of the cable along the axial direction from the first body toward the attachment body is adjacent along the lateral direction from the face fastener opening.

[0095] 9. The cable attachment unit of any one or more clauses herein, wherein extension of the cable along the cable extension axis from the first body toward the attachment body is co-directional along the axial direction to the clockwise-tightening thread relative to the cable positioned adjacent to the face.

[0096] 10. The cable attachment unit of any one or more clauses herein, including a wall configured to extend along the lateral direction substantially co-directional to the face at the attachment body, wherein a wall fastener opening extends through the wall.

[0097] 11. The cable attachment unit of any one or more clauses herein, wherein the wall fastener opening is configured to correspond to a face fastener opening extending into the face, wherein a fastener is receivable into the face fastener opening and the wall fastener opening to position the cable between the wall and the attachment body.

[0098] 12. The cable attachment unit of any one or more clauses herein, wherein the wall includes a protrusion extending toward the cable when positioned between the wall and the attachment body.

[0099] 13. The cable attachment unit of any one or more clauses herein, wherein the wall includes a vertical extension portion configured to extend at least partially along the vertical direction.

[0100] 14. The cable attachment unit of any one or more clauses herein, wherein the attachment body forms a pocket into which the wall is at least partially extendable.

[0101] 15. The cable attachment unit of any one or more clauses herein, wherein the attachment body forms the pocket extending along the axial direction.

[0102] 16. The cable attachment unit of any one or more clauses herein, wherein the attachment body includes a member extending along the vertical direction from the first step.

[0103] 17. The cable attachment unit of any one or more clauses herein, wherein a reference cable extension axis extends co-directional to the axial direction betweenthe member and a face fastener opening extending into the face, wherein the cable is configured to extend along the cable extension axis from the first body and between the member and the face fastener opening.

[0104] 18. The cable attachment unit of any one or more clauses herein, wherein the attachment body forms a pocket extending betw een the member and the second step.

[0105] 19. The cable attachment unit of any one or more clauses herein, including a separation interface between the first body and the attachment body.

[0106] 20. The cable attachment unit of any one or more clauses herein, wherein the separation interface includes a neck extending less than the platform along the lateral direction.

[0107] 21. The cable attachment unit of any one or more clauses herein, wherein the separation interface includes a key selectively insertable to a slot, wherein the key is formed at the first body or the attachment body, and wherein the slot is formed at the other of the first body or the attachment body.

[0108] 22. The cable attachment unit of any one or more clauses herein, the slot extending along the lateral direction, wherein the key includes a key head extending along the lateral direction corresponding to the slot.

[0109] 23. The cable attachment unit of any one or more clauses herein, wherein the key includes a gap extending along the axial direction through the key head, wherein the key head is configured to elastically deflect along the lateral direction.

[0110] 24. The cable attachment unit of any one or more clauses herein, wherein the separation interface includes a detent w all extending along the axial direction to inhibit movement of the key along a direction along the vertical direction.

[0111] 25. The cable attachment unit of any one or more clauses herein, wherein the separation interface includes an angled wall extending along the vertical direction, wherein corresponding portions of the angled wall are formed at the slot and the key.

[0112] 26. The cable attachment unit of any one or more clauses herein, wherein the angled wall extends along the vertical direction from a detent wall extending along the axial direction to inhibit movement of the key along a direction along the vertical direction.

[0113] 27. The cable atachment unit of any one or more clauses herein, including a spacer releasably attachable to the first body, the spacer forming a body extending along the vertical direction from the gripping portion, the spacer including a second gripping portion positioned above the gripping portion at the first body along the vertical direction when atached to the first body.

[0114] 28. The cable atachment unit of any one or more clauses herein, the spacer including an atachment surface configured to selectively atach at the first body.

[0115] 29. The cable atachment unit of any one or more clauses herein, wherein the second gripping portion is substantially co-planar to the face at the atachment body when atached to the first body.

[0116] 30. The cable atachment unit of any one or more clauses herein, wherein the first body includes a stop wall extending along the lateral direction.

[0117] 31. The cable atachment unit of any one or more clauses herein, including a clamp atachable to the first body at the atachment interface, wherein the clamp is configured to apply a force to the cable toward the gripping portion at the first body.

[0118] 32. The cable atachment unit of any one or more clauses herein, including a bracket selectively positioned between the clamp and the cable.

[0119] 33. The cable atachment unit of any one or more clauses herein, wherein the bracket includes a bracket wall configured to extend co-directional to the cable.

[0120] 34. The cable atachment unit of any one or more clauses herein, wherein the bracket wall includes protrusions configured to extend substantially along the vertical direction toward the cable.

[0121] 35. The cable atachment unit of any one or more clauses herein, wherein the gripping portion includes bumps, raised walls, pyramids, diamonds, or polygons extending substantially along the vertical direction from the first body toward the cable.

[0122] This writen description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such otherexamples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they include structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages of the claims.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A cable atachment unit, wherein a reference axial direction, vertical direction, and lateral direction are formed, the cable atachment unit comprising: a first body comprising an atachment interface at which a cable extending along the axial direction is atachable to the body, wherein the body comprises a gripping portion positioned adjacent to the atachment interface, wherein the gripping portion is configured to promote atachment of the cable to the first body; an atachment body extended from the first body, the atachment body comprising a first step extending along the vertical direction to a first height, a face extending along the axial direction from the first height, and a second step extending from the face and along the vertical direction to a second height greater than the first height, wherein the second step forms a barrier configured to inhibit extension of a central strength member of the cable along the axial direction; and a platform extending between the atachment body and the first body, wherein the first step at the atachment body extends along the vertical direction from the platform.

2. The cable atachment unit of claim 1, wherein the first step and the second step at the atachment body are separated along the axial direction, and wherein the face extends between the first step and the second step.

3. The cable atachment unit of claim 1, wherein the gripping portion is substantially co-planar to the platform, and wherein the first step extends along the vertical direction to the first height greater than a plane at which the gripping portion is positioned.

4. The cable atachment unit of claim 1, the atachment body comprising a face fastener opening extending into the face, wherein a fastener is receivable into the fastener opening to couple the central strength member to the atachment body.

5. The cable atachment unit of claim 4, the cable atachment unit comprising a reference cable extension axis extending co-directional to the axial direction, whereinthe cable extension axis extends co-directional to the axial direction through the gripping portion at the first body, and wherein the face fastener opening is offset along the lateral direction from the cable extension axis.

6. The cable atachment unit of claim 4, wherein the face fastener opening is offset along the lateral direction from a reference cable extension axis extending co- directional to the axial direction, wherein the face fastener opening comprises a threaded interface extending into the atachment body, and wherein the threaded interface is configured as a clockwise-tightening thread relative to the cable positioned adjacent to the face.

7. The cable atachment unit of claim 6, wherein the face fastener opening is positioned at the face offset from the cable extension axis along the lateral direction such that an extension of the cable along the axial direction from the first body toward the attachment body is adjacent along the lateral direction from the face fastener opening.

8. The cable atachment unit of claim 1, comprising: a wall configured to extend along the lateral direction substantially co- directional to the face at the atachment body, wherein a wall fastener opening extends through the wall.

9. The cable atachment unit of claim 8, wherein the wall fastener opening is configured to correspond to a face fastener opening extending into the face, wherein a fastener is receivable into the face fastener opening and the wall fastener opening to position the cable between the wall and the atachment body.

10. The cable atachment unit of claim 9, wherein the wall comprises a protrusion extending toward the cable when positioned between the wall and the atachment body.

11. The cable atachment unit of claim 8, wherein the wall comprises a vertical extension portion configured to extend at least partially along the vertical direction.

12. The cable atachment unit of claim 8, wherein the atachment body forms a pocket into which the wall is at least partially extendable.

13. The cable atachment unit of claim 1, wherein the atachment body comprises a member extending along the vertical direction from the first step, wherein a reference cable extension axis extends co-directional to the axial direction between the member and a face fastener opening extending into the face, wherein the cable is configured to extend along the cable extension axis from the first body and between the member and the face fastener opening.

14. The cable atachment unit of claim 1, comprising: a separation interface between the first body and the atachment body, wherein the separation interface comprises a neck extending less than the platform along the lateral direction.

15. The cable atachment unit of claim 1, comprising: a separation interface between the first body and the atachment body, wherein the separation interface comprises a key selectively insertable to a slot, wherein the key is formed at the first body or the atachment body, and wherein the slot is formed at the other of the first body or the atachment body.

16. The cable atachment unit of claim 15. the slot extending along the lateral direction, wherein the key comprises a key head extending along the lateral direction corresponding to the slot.

17. The cable atachment unit of claim 15. wherein the separation interface comprises a detent wall extending along the axial direction to inhibit movement of the key along a direction along the vertical direction.

18. The cable atachment unit of claim 15, wherein the separation interface comprises an angled wall extending along the vertical direction, wherein corresponding portions of the angled wall are formed at the slot and the key.

19. The cable atachment unit of claim 18, wherein the angled wall extends along the vertical direction from a detent wall extending along the axial direction to inhibit movement of the key along a direction along the vertical direction.

20. The cable atachment unit of claim 1, comprising: a spacer releasably atachable to the first body, the spacer forming a bodyextending along the vertical direction from the gripping portion, the spacer comprising a second gripping portion positioned above the gripping portion at the first body along the vertical direction when atached to the first body.

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