Cable trough cover

Abstract

A trough cover assembly for a cable trough, including a first panel, a second panel, and a hinge member. The panels, defined by a width between two edges, are pivotably coupled on one side to the cable trough and on the other side to the hinge member. The hinge member's positioning allows both panels to pivot independently, enabling the assembly to transition between a closed position, covering the cable trough's channel, and an open position, providing access to the channel.

Description

[0001] CABLE TROUGH COVER

[0002] Cross-Reference to Related Application

[0003] This application is being filed as a PCT International Patent Application and claims the benefit of U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 529,924, filed July 31, 2023, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0004] Technical Field

[0005] The present disclosure relates generally to systems for the management and routing of optical fiber cables and other cables, and more particularly to covers for cable troughs and raceways.

[0006] Background

[0007] In the telecommunications industry, optical fibers are increasingly being utilized for signal transmissions. As the usage of optical fiber systems expands, effective optical fiber cable management becomes a significant consideration.

[0008] One important aspect of optical fiber management involves the routing of fibers between equipment within telecommunications facilities and other structures. For instance, optical fiber cables may be routed between fiber distribution equipment and optical line terminating equipment. To achieve flexibility and adaptability in cable routing, industry-standard routing systems comprise various components like trough members and couplers, which define the paths for the cables.

[0009] However, traditional U-shaped trough members have open tops, potentially allowing debris and unwanted materials to fall onto the fibers. It is therefore desirable to provide covers for trough members that reduce debris from entering interior portions of the trough members. Several existing patents, including U.S. Pat. N os. 7,411,126; 7,326,863; 6,916,986; 7,615,710; 8,330,042; and 6,835,891, offer examples of such covers. Continuous advancements in cover designs are desired to ensure ease of continued use and access, simple installation, and cost-effectiveness during production. One aspect of the disclosure is directed to a cable trough cover assembly that includes a hinge member designed to provide robust protection for the contents of the cable trough, such as cables or wires, from external debris or damage while allowing easy access for maintenance or adjustments. One advantage of the cable trough assembly lies in its dual-panel configuration, hinged in such a way that each panel can pivot independently, thereby providing flexibility and enabling the cover to transition between an open and a closed position. In its open state, the cover extends above the trough by a little more than half of the trough's width, facilitating access even in constricted spaces, e.g. where the trough is positioned in close proximity to the ceiling. When closed, the cable trough assembly forms a rigid A-frame structure, enhancing protection and inhibiting the entry of debris.

[0010] One notable feature of the cable trough assembly is the hinge member, which allows a pivoting motion between the panels, and also extends over the joint between the two panels to enhance protection. In some embodiments, the hinge member can include a handle that protrudes above the panels when closed, simplifying the operation of opening and closing the assembly. Furthermore, the hinge can be designed in such a way that it restricts the panels' range of rotation to approximately 90 degrees or less, providing controlled and safe access to the trough. Additional brackets, coupled to the trough's sides, add stability and control to the pivoting mechanism.

[0011] The use of such a hinged cover assembly provides several benefits. Specifically, the hinge cover assembly enhances the ease of continued use and access to the trough by allowing quick and effortless opening and closing of the cover. Installation is simplified as the panels can, in some cases, be identical, with the brackets easily coupleable to the sides of the trough. Additionally, an extrusion fabrication process, particularly in combination with the identical panel components, contributes to costeffectiveness during production, making this cover assembly a practical, efficient, and economical solution for protecting and managing cables within a trough.

[0012] One aspect of the disclosure provides a cable trough cover assembly that includes a first and a second panel, each having a hinge configuration that allows them to pivot independently of one another over a range of at least 270-degrees. This broad range of motion permits the cover assembly to transition smoothly between a closed position, where it safeguards the contents of the cable trough, to various open positions, granting at least partial access to the trough. horizontally oriented while the second panel is pivoted upward, thereby enabling easy access to the cable trough. Alternatively, the first panel can be pivoted into a vertical orientation, and the second panel may be positioned downward towards the trough or pivoted upwards and away from the trough, granting uninhibited access to the channel.

[0013] When closed, the cover assembly forms an A-frame structure with the apex suspended above the cable trough. In the open position, the assembly doesn't extend above the trough by more than about 60% of the trough's width, allowing for practical use even in areas with limited vertical space. A handle on the hinge member further simplifies the process of transitioning between positions.

[0014] One aspect of the disclosure provides a trough cover assembly for a cable trough, including a first panel, a second panel, and wherein each of the first and second panels are defined by a width extending between a first edge pivotably couplable to a respective first or second side of the cable trough, and a second edge pivotably couplable to the hinge member, such that the hinge member is positioned between the first panel and the second panel to enable both the first panel and the second panel to independently pivot relative to the hinge member, thereby enabling the trough cover assembly to transition between a closed position substantially covering a channel of the cable trough, and an open position enabling access to the channel of the cable trough.

[0015] In one aspect, the trough cover assembly is configured as a folding A-frame, in which an apex of the trough cover assembly is suspended above the channel of the cable trough. In one aspect, the hinge member extends over a hinged coupling between the first panel and the second panel further inhibiting an entry of debris into the channel of the cable trough when the trough cover assembly is in the closed position. In one aspect, in the open position, the trough cover assembly extends above the cable trough at a height of no more than about 60% of a width of the channel of the cable trough.

[0016] In one aspect, the hinge member includes a handle extending above the first panel and the second panel when the trough cover assembly is in the closed position. In one aspect, the handle has a T-shaped cross-section.

[0017] In one aspect, the hinge member includes a first hinge edge defining a first portion of a first panel hinge, and a second hinge edge defining a first portion of a second panel hinge. In one aspect, the second edge of the first panel defines a second portion of the first panel hinge, and a second edge of the second panel defines a second portion of the second panel hinge. In one aspect, each of the first panel hinge and the SI to approximately 90-degrees or less.

[0018] In one aspect, the second portion of the first panel hinge and the second portion of the second panel hinge each define a C-shaped cross-section, wherein the edges of the C-shaped cross-section are defined by a first flange and a second flange. In one aspect, a first portion of the first panel hinge and the first portion of the second panel hinge each define a pin shaped and sized for receipt within the C-shaped cross-section of the respective second portion of the first panel hinge and the second portion of the second panel hinge, wherein the first portion of the first panel hinge and the first portion of the second panel hinge further each define a first channel and a second channel configured to receive the first flange and the second flange of the second portion of the first or second panel hinges, thereby limiting the range of rotational motion of the trough cover assembly.

[0019] In one aspect, the trough cover assembly further includes one or more brackets configured to be operably coupled to a respective first or second side of the cable trough, and defining a first portion of a trough side hinge. In one aspect, the trough side hinge is a limited swing hinge having range of rotational motion restricted to approximately 90-degrees or less.

[0020] In one aspect, the first edge each of the first panel and the second panel define a second portion of the trough side hinge. In one aspect, the first portion of the trough side hinge defines a C-shaped cross-section, wherein the edges of the C-shaped crosssection are defined by a first flange and a second flange. In one aspect, a second portion of the trough side hinge defines a pin shaped and sized for receipt within the C-shaped cross-section of the first portion of the trough side hinge, wherein the second portion of the trough side hinge further defines a first channel and a second channel configured to receive the first flange and the second flange of the first portion of the trough side hinge, thereby limiting the range of rotational motion of the trough cover assembly. In one aspect, the second portion of the trough side hinge defines a third flange, configured to be received within a third channel defined by the first portion of the trough side hinge.

[0021] In one aspect, the first panel and the second panel are substantially identical components. In one aspect, each of the first panel, the second panel, and the hinge member constructed of a polyester or polyethylene resin. In one aspect, each of the first panel, the second panel, and the hinge member have a flammability rating of at least L the second panel, and the hinge member are at least partially fabricated through an extrusion process.

[0022] Another aspect of the disclosure provides a trough cover assembly for a cable trough, including a first panel defined by a first width extending between a first edge pivotably coupled to a first side of the cable trough, and a second edge defining a first portion of an apex panel hinge, and a second panel defined by a second width extending between a third edge defining a second portion of the apex panel hinge, and a fourth edge operably coupleable to the second side of the cable trough, wherein the apex panel hinge is configured to enable the first panel to pivot relative to the second panel over a range of at least about 250-degrees, thereby enabling the trough cover assembly to transition between a closed position substantially covering a channel of the cable trough, and one or more open positions enabling at least partial access to the channel of the cable trough.

[0023] In one aspect, the one or more open positions include a first open position in which the second panel remains in a substantially horizontal orientation while the first panel is pivoted upward to permit access to the channel of the cable trough, a second open position in which the second panel is pivoted relative to the cable trough to a substantially vertical orientation while the first panel is pivoted downward toward the channel of the cable trough into a pike position relative to the first panel, and a third open position in which the second panel is pivoted relative to the cable trough to a substantially vertical orientation while the first panel is pivoted upward and away from the channel of the cable trough, thereby permitting uninhibited access to the channel of the cable trough.

[0024] In one aspect, the trough cover assembly is configured as a folding A-frame, in which an apex of the trough cover assembly is suspended above the channel of the cable trough. In one aspect, in the open position, the trough cover assembly extends above the cable trough at a height of no more than about 60% of a width of the channel of the cable trough.

[0025] In one aspect, at least one of the first panel or the second panel includes a handle extending above the first panel and the second panel when the trough cover assembly is in the closed position. In one aspect, the handle has a T-shaped crosssection. polyester or polyethylene resin. In one aspect, each of the first panel and the second panel have a flammability rating of at least UL-94, and an oxygen index of higher than 28%. In one aspect, each of the first panel and the second panel are at least partially fabricated through an extrusion process.

[0026] A variety of additional inventive aspects will be set forth in the description that follows. The inventive aspects can relate to individual features and to combinations of features. It is to be understood that both the forgoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the broad inventive concepts upon which the embodiments disclosed herein are based.

[0027] Brief Description of the Drawings

[0028] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the description, illustrate several aspects of the present disclosure. A brief description of the drawings is as follows:

[0029] FIG. 1 is a perspective view depicting a trough cover assembly operably coupled to a cable trough, wherein the trough cover assembly is in a closed position, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 2 is a perspective view depicting the trough cover assembly of FIG. 1, wherein the trough cover assemblies in an open position, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0031] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view depicting a trough cover assembly in a closed position, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0032] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view depicting the trough cover assembly of FIG. 3 in an open position, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0033] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a panel of a trough cover assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0034] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view depicting the panel of FIG. 5, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0035] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a hinge member of a trough cover assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0036] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view depicting the hinge member of FIG. 7, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0037] FIG. 10 is an alternate perspective view of the bracket of FIG. 9, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0038] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view depicting the bracket of FIG. 9, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0039] FIG. 12 is an exploded view of a trough cover assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0040] FIG. 13 is a close-up, cross-sectional view of a panel hinge coupling of a trough cover assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0041] FIG. 14 is an alternate, close-up, cross-sectional view of the panel hinge coupling of FIG. 13, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0042] FIG. 15 is a close-up, cross-sectional view of a trough hinge coupling of a trough cover assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0043] FIG. 16 is an alternate, close-up, cross-sectional view of the trough hinge coupling of FIG. 15, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0044] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a trough cover assembly operably coupled to a cable trough, wherein the trough cover assembly is in a closed position, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0045] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the trough cover assembly of FIG. 17, wherein the trough cover assembly is in an open position, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0046] FIG. 19 is an exploded, perspective view of a trough cover assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0047] FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view of a trough cover assembly, wherein the trough cover assembly is in a closed position, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0048] FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view of the trough cover assembly of FIG. 20, wherein the trough cover assembly is in a first open position, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0049] FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view of the trough cover assembly of FIG. 20, wherein the trough cover assembly is in a second open position, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. wherein the trough cover assembly is in a third open position, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0050] FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view of the trough cover assembly depicting a pivoting of a first panel relative to a second panel, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0051] Detailed Description

[0052] Reference will now be made in detail to exemplary aspects of the present disclosure that are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts.

[0053] Referring to FIGS. 1-16, a trough cover assembly 100 is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. As depicted, the trough cover assembly 100 can include a first panel 102, a second panel 104, and a hinge member 106. The components of the trough cover assembly 100 can be attached to a cable trough 50, either via the first side 52 or the second side 54. This facilitates selective covering and uncovering of the channel 58 within the cable trough 50, which is designed to accommodate a plurality of cables.

[0054] As further depicted in the figures, the trough cover assembly 100 is designed to transition between a closed position (as depicted in FIGS. 1 & 3) and an open position (as depicted in FIGS. 2 & 4). In the closed position, the trough cover assembly 100 extends over the channel 58 of the cable trough 50, offering a robust shield that significantly covers the channel 58. In the closed position, the trough cover assembly 100 protects the cables within the cable trough 50 from external elements like debris, dust, or water.

[0055] When access to the cables is required for tasks like maintenance, adjustments, or the addition or removal of cables, the trough cover assembly 100 can be manipulated into the open position. This is achieved through pivoting of the first and second panels 102, 104, facilitated by the hinge member 106. When opened, the trough cover assembly 100 enables unobstructed access to the channel 58 of the cable trough 50, without the need to completely detach the trough cover assembly 100 from the cable trough 50. Thus, the trough cover assembly 100 serves as a practical solution for the protection and easy accessibility of cables positioned within the cable trough 50. substantially identical, meaning they are essentially the same manufactured component replicated within the trough cover assembly 100. As best depicted in FIGS. 5-6, the panels 102, 104 each have a width (Wl) that extends between a first edge 107 and a second edge 108. The first edge 107 can be pivotably attachable to either the first side 52 or second side 54 of the cable trough 50, and the second edge 108 can be pivotably connected to the hinge member 106. The hinge member 106 can be positioned between the first panel 102 and the second panel 104, enabling both panels to pivot independently relative to the hinge member 106.

[0056] The trough cover assembly 100 is designed as a folding A-frame structure. The apex 110 of this assembly, when folded, is positioned above the channel 58 of the cable trough 50 at a height (Hl). In some embodiments, the hinge member 106 extends across the hinged coupling between the first panel 102 and the second panel 104. This feature further inhibits debris from entering the channel 58 of the cable trough 50 when the trough cover assembly 100 is in the closed position.

[0057] When in the open position, the height (H2) at which the trough cover assembly 100 extends above the cable trough 50 is no more than approximately 60% of the width (W2) of the channel 58 within the cable trough 50 (as best depicted in FIGS. 3-4). However, in different embodiments, this height (Hl) may range from about 50% to approximately 75% of the width (W2) of the channel.

[0058] As best depicted in FIGS. 13-14, the hinge member 106 can encompass a first hinge side 112 defining a first portion 114 of a first panel hinge 116, and a second hinge edge 118 defining a first portion 120 of a second panel hinge 122. The second edge 108 of the first panel 102 can define a second portion 115 of the first panel hinge 116. The second edge 108 of the second panel 104 can define a second portion 121 of the second panel hinge 122.

[0059] In certain embodiments, both the first panel hinge 116 and the second panel hinge 122 can be characterized as limited swing hinges. A limited swing hinge is a type of hinge that is designed to restrict the rotation or swing of the panels it is attached to. Unlike regular hinges that allow panels to swing open to a full 180 degrees, limited swing hinges have a restricted rotational range, thus limiting the motion of the panels to a specified arc.

[0060] This design can be particularly useful in applications where full swing may not be desired or may be hazardous. For example, in this embodiment, each of the first p limited to a range of about 90 degrees or less. This means the panels 102, 104 can pivot but only to an extent where they open up to form a right angle or less with respect to their initial position, thereby preventing overextension and potential damage to the trough cover assembly 100 or the cables within the cable trough 50.

[0061] For example, the second portion 115 of the first panel hinge 116 and the second portion 121 of the second panel hinge 122 can each define a C-shaped cross-section 124, 125, where the edges of the C-shaped cross-sections 124, 125 are defined by a respective first flange 126 and a second flange 128. The first portion 114 of the first panel hinge 116 and the first portion 120 of the second panel hinge 122 can each define a pin 130, 131 shaped and sized for receipt within the C-shaped cross-sections 124, 125 of the respective second portion 115 of the first panel hinge 116 and the second portion 121 of the second panel hinge 122. The first portion 114 of the first panel hinge 116 and the first portion 120 of the second panel hinge 122 can each define a first channel 132 and a second channel 134 configured to receive the first flange 126 and the second flange 128 of the second portion 115 of the first panel hinge 116 or the second portion 121 of the second panel hinge 122, thereby limiting the range of rotational motion of the trough cover assembly 100.

[0062] As further illustrated in the figures, the hinge member 106 can be designed to incorporate a handle 136. When the trough cover assembly 100 is in the closed position, the handle 136 rises above both the first panel 102 and the second panel 104. While the handle 136 is depicted as having a T-shaped cross-section in some embodiments, it should be noted that other shapes and configurations are also contemplated.

[0063] Referring to FIGS. 9-12, the trough cover assembly 100 can further include one or more brackets 138 configured to be operably coupled to a respective first side 52 or the second side 54 of the cable trough 50. With additional reference to FIGS. 15-16, each bracket 138 can define a retainer clip portion 133 configured to enable the bracket 138 to be operably coupled to the cable trough 50, and a first portion 140 of a trough side hinge 142 configured to enable a pivotable connection between the bracket 138 and either of the first panel 102 or the second panel 104, wherein respective first edges 107 of each of the first panel 102 and the second panel 104 can define a second portion 141 of the trough side hinge 142. and a second member 137 defining a channel 139 configured to receive a top edge or lip 56 defined by either a first side 52 or a second side 54 of the cable trough 50. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the retainer clip portion 133 can be configured to interface with or at least cover three sides of the lip 56, as defined by the first side 52 or the second side 54 of the cable trough 50, wherein the lip 56 includes an exterior surface, a top surface, and an interior surface facing an interior of the cable trough. In some embodiments, the retainer clip portion 133 can further include a third member 143 configured to extend partially into a slot 60 defined by the lip 56.

[0064] In some embodiments, the brackets 138 can be coupled to the first side 52 or the second side 54 of the cable trough 50 by snapping the bracket 138 onto a midportion of the cable trough 50. This can be accomplished by positioning the channel 139 adjacent to the lip 56 of the cable trough 50, and applying a downward force on the bracket 138 to cause the first member 135 to bow out slightly with respect to the second member 137 to allow the lip 56 to be received in the channel 139 and to allow the bracket 138 to extend partially into the slot 60.

[0065] In alternative embodiments, the bracket 138 can be configured to be coupled to the lip 56 by sliding the bracket 138 onto an and of the cable trough 50, such as a first or second end of the cable trough, and into a desired position on the cable trough 50. If the bracket 138 is configured to be slid onto the cable trough 50, additional structure can be provided for fixing the bracket 138 in a desired position on the cable trough 50 such as, for example, screws or bolts, and other fasteners or adhesives.

[0066] The bracket 138 can be removed from the cable trough 50 similarly, either by forcing the third member 143 out of the slot 60 and then removing the bracket 138 from the cable trough 50, or, alternatively, by sliding the bracket 138 often end of the cable trough 50.

[0067] In some embodiments, the trough side hinge 142 can be characterized as a limited swing hinge having range of rotational motion limited to about 90-degrees or less. For example, the first portion 140 of the trough side hinge 142 can define a C- shaped cross-section 144, wherein the edges of the C-shaped cross-section 144 are defined by a respective first flange 146 and a second flange 148. The second portion 141 of the trough side hinge 142 can define a pin 150 shaped and sized for receipt within the C-shaped cross-section 144 of the first portion 140 of the trough side hinge 142. In some embodiments, the second portion 141 of the trough side hinge 142 further d flange 146 and the second flange 148 of the first portion 140 of the trough side hinge 142, thereby limiting the range of rotational motion of the trough cover assembly 100. Additionally, as best depicted in FIGS. 15-16, the second portion 141 of the trough side hinge 142 can define a third flange 156 configured to be received within a third channel 158 defined by the first portion 140 of the trough side hinge 142, thereby limiting the range of rotational motion of the trough cover assembly 100. An alternative bracket is shown in US6,916,986, the contents of which are incorporated by reference herein.

[0068] In certain embodiments, the first panel 102, the second panel 104, and the hinge member 106 can be at least partially fabricated through an extrusion process. Extrusion is a manufacturing technique in which a material, typically heated until it reaches a malleable state, is forced through a die, or a tool that shapes the material as it passes through. The extruded material takes the shape of the cross-section of the die, producing long pieces with the uniform cross-section. This method is commonly used for manufacturing products that have a consistent cross-sectional profile such as tubes, beams, and profiles for certain types of brackets.

[0069] In this context, the components (i.e., the first panel 102, the second panel 104, and the hinge member 106) can be constructed from materials such as polyester or polyethylene resin. These materials can be heated until malleable, then pushed through a die in the shape of the desired component. Once cooled, the material retains the shape of the die, forming the component.

[0070] It is also noteworthy that these components can satisfy stringent safety standards, each possessing a flammability rating of at least UL-94 and an oxygen index exceeding 28%. The UL-94 rating is a standard for safety of flammability of plastic materials, and an oxygen index exceeding 28% indicates a low likelihood of the material supporting combustion in the air. This means these materials are less likely to catch fire and contribute to the spread of fire, adding an important safety feature to their design.

[0071] With additional reference to FIGS. 17-24, another embodiment of a trough cover assembly 100’ is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. In embodiments, the trough cover assembly 100’ can include a first panel 160 and a second panel 162, wherein an apex panel hinge 170 between the first panel 160 and the second panel 162 is integrally incorporated into the first panel 160 and the second panel 162, rather than being represented as a separate component, thereby enabling the trough c

[0072] 20) and one or more possible open position configurations (as depicted in FIGS. 21- 23).

[0073] With continued reference to FIGS. 17-24, the first panel 160 can be defined by a first width (SI) extending between a first edge 163 pivotably coupled to a first side 52 of the cable trough 50, and a second edge 164 defining a first portion 166 of an apex panel hinge 170. The second panel 162 can be defined by a second width (S2) extending between a third edge 165 defining a second portion 168 of the apex panel hinge 170, and a fourth edge 167 operably coupleable to the second side 54 of the cable trough 50. In embodiments, the apex panel hinge 170 can be configured to enable the first panel 160 to pivot relative to the second panel 162 over a range of at least angle (Al), thereby enabling the trough cover assembly 100’ to transition between the closed position substantially covering a channel 58 of the cable trough 50, and the one or more open positions enabling at least partial access to the channel 58 of the cable trough 50. In some embodiments, angle Al can be about 250-degrees; although a range of other angles is also contemplated.

[0074] As best depicted in FIG. 20, in the closed position, the trough cover assembly 100’ can be configured as a folding a frame, in which the apex panel hinge 170 is suspended above the channel 58 of the cable trough 50 at a height (Hl). In a first open position (as best depicted in FIG. 21), the second panel 162 remains in a substantially horizontal orientation, while the first panel 160 is pivoted upward to permit access to the channel 58 of the cable trough 50. In a second open position (as best depicted in FIG. 22), the second panel 162 is pivoted relative to the cable trough 50 to a substantially vertical orientation, while the first panel is positioned in a substantially horizontal orientation upward and away from the channel 58 of the cable trough. In a third open position (as best depicted in FIG. 23) the second panel 162 is pivoted relative to the cable trough 50 to a substantially vertical orientation, while the first panel 160 is pivoted downward toward the channel 58 of the cable trough 50 into a pike position relative to the second panel 162, thereby permitting uninhibited access to the channel of the cable trough. In some embodiments, in the open position configurations, the trough cover assembly extends above the cable trough at a height (H2) of no more than about 60% of a width (W2) of the channel of the cable trough.

[0075] Other aspects of the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 17-24 can exhibit substantial similarities to those in FIGS. 1-18. This includes, among other aspects, the ii when the trough cover assembly 100’ is in the closed position. As depicted, in some embodiments, the handle 136 can generally be defined by a T-shaped cross-section.

[0076] Having described the preferred aspects and implementations of the present disclosure, modifications and equivalents of the disclosed concepts may readily occur to one skilled in the art. However, it is intended that such modifications and equivalents be included within the scope of the claims which are appended hereto.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A trough cover assembly for a cable trough, comprising: a first panel; a second panel; and a hinge member, wherein each of the first panel and the second panel are defined by a width extending between a first edge pivotably couplable to a respective first or second side of the cable trough, and a second edge pivotably couplable to the hinge member, such that the hinge member is positioned between the first panel and the second panel to enable both the first panel and the second panel to independently pivot relative to the hinge member, thereby enabling the trough cover assembly to transition between a closed position substantially covering a channel of the cable trough, and an open position enabling access to the channel of the cable trough.

2. The trough cover assembly of claim 1, wherein the trough cover assembly is configured as a folding A-frame, in which an apex of the trough cover assembly is suspended above the channel of the cable trough.

3. The trough cover assembly of claim 1 , wherein the hinge member extends over a hinged coupling between the first panel and the second panel further inhibiting an entry of debris into the channel of the cable trough when the trough cover assembly is in the closed position.

4. The trough cover assembly of claim 1, wherein in the open position, the trough cover assembly extends above the cable trough at a height of no more than about 60% of a width of the channel of the cable trough.

5. The trough cover assembly of claim 1, wherein the hinge member includes a handle extending above the first panel and the second panel when the trough cover assembly is in the closed position.6 section,7. The trough cover assembly of claim 1 , wherein the hinge member includes a first hinge edge defining a first portion of a first panel hinge, and a second hinge edge defining a first portion of a second panel hinge.

8. The trough cover assembly of claim 7, wherein the second edge each of the first panel defines a second portion of the first panel hinge, and a second edge of the second panel defines a second portion of the second panel hinge.

9. The trough cover assembly of claim 7, wherein each of the first panel hinge and the second panel hinge is a limited swing hinge having range of rotational motion restricted to approximately 90-degrees or less.

10. The trough cover assembly of claim 7, wherein the second portion of the first panel hinge and the second portion of the second panel hinge each define a C-shaped cross-section, wherein edges of the C-shaped cross-section are defined by a first flange and a second flange.

11. The trough cover assembly of claim 10, wherein a first portion of the first panel hinge and the first portion of the second panel hinge each define a pin shaped and sized for receipt within the C-shaped cross-section of the respective second portion of the first panel hinge and the second portion of the second panel hinge, wherein the first portion of the first panel hinge and the first portion of the second panel hinge further each define a first channel and a second channel configured to receive the first flange and the second flange of the second portion of the first or second panel hinges, thereby limiting the range of rotational motion of the trough cover assembly.

12. The trough cover assembly of claim 1, further comprising one or more brackets configured to be operably coupled to a respective first or second side of the cable trough, and defining a first portion of a trough side hinge.1 swing hinge having range of rotational motion restricted to approximately 90-degrees or less.

14. The trough cover assembly of claim 12, wherein the first edge each of the first panel and the second panel define a second portion of the trough side hinge.

15. The trough cover assembly of claim 12, wherein the first portion of the trough side hinge defines a C-shaped cross-section, wherein edges of the C-shaped cross-section are defined by a first flange and a second flange.

16. The trough cover assembly of claim 15, wherein a second portion of the trough side hinge defines a pin shaped and sized for receipt within the C-shaped cross-section of the first portion of the trough side hinge, wherein the second portion of the trough side hinge further defines a first channel and a second channel configured to receive the first flange and the second flange of the first portion of the trough side hinge, thereby limiting the range of rotational motion of the trough cover assembly.

17. The trough cover assembly of claim 16, wherein the second portion of the trough side hinge defines a third flange, configured to be received within a third channel defined by the first portion of the trough side hinge.

18. The trough cover assembly of claim 1, wherein the first panel and the second panel are substantially identical components.

19. The trough cover assembly of claim 1 , wherein each of the first panel, the second panel, and the hinge member constructed of a polyester or polyethylene resin.

20. The trough cover assembly of claim 1 , wherein each of the first panel, the second panel, and the hinge member have a flammability rating of at least UL-94, and an oxygen index of higher than 28%.

21. The trough cover assembly of claim 1 , wherein each of the first panel, the second panel, and the hinge member are at least partially fabricated through an extrusion process.

22. The trough cover assembly of claim 1 , further comprising a cable trough structure including a first side wall and a second side wall defining a cable channel therebetween.

23. A trough cover assembly for a cable trough, comprising: a first panel defined by a first width extending between a first edge pivotably coupled to a first side of the cable trough, and a second edge defining a first portion of an apex panel hinge; and a second panel defined by a second width extending between a third edge defining a second portion of the apex panel hinge, and a fourth edge operably coupleable to the second side of the cable trough, wherein the apex panel hinge is configured to enable the first panel to pivot relative to the second panel over a range of at least about 250-degrees, thereby enabling the trough cover assembly to transition between a closed position substantially covering a channel of the cable trough, and one or more open positions enabling at least partial access to the channel of the cable trough.

24. The trough cover assembly of claim 23, wherein the one or more open positions include a first open position in which the second panel remains in a substantially horizontal orientation while the first panel is pivoted upward to permit access to the channel of the cable trough, a second open position in which the second panel is pivoted relative to the cable trough to a substantially vertical orientation while the first panel is pivoted downward toward the channel of the cable trough into a pike position relative to the first panel, and a third open position in which the second panel is pivoted relative to the cable trough to a substantially vertical orientation while the first panel is pivoted upward and away from the channel of the cable trough, thereby permitting uninhibited access to the channel of the cable trough.

25. The trough cover assembly of claim 23, wherein the trough cover assembly is configured as a folding A-frame, in which an apex of the trough cover assembly is suspended above the channel of the cable trough.2 cover assembly extends above the cable trough at a height of no more than about 60% of a width of the channel of the cable trough.

27. The trough cover assembly of claim 23, wherein at least one of the first panel or the second panel includes a handle extending above the first panel and the second panel when the trough cover assembly is in the closed position.

28. The trough cover assembly of claim 27, wherein the handle has a T-shaped crosssection.

29. The trough cover assembly of claim 23, wherein each of the first panel and the second panel are constructed of a polyester or polyethylene resin.

30. The trough cover assembly of claim 23, wherein each of the first panel and the second panel have a flammability rating of at least UL-94, and an oxygen index of higher than 28%.

31. The trough cover assembly of claim 23, wherein each of the first panel and the second panel are at least partially fabricated through an extrusion process.

32. The trough cover assembly of claim 23, further comprising a cable trough structure including a first side wall and a second side wall defining a cable channel therebetween.

33. A method of using a trough cover assembly for selectively covering and uncovering a channel within a cable trough designed to accommodate a plurality of cables, the trough cover assembly including a first panel, a second panel, and a hinge member, the method comprising: installing at least two brackets onto a respective first side and a second side of a cable trough structure, wherein each bracket defines a retainer clip portion configured to be operably coupled to the cable trough, and a first portion of a trough side hinge configured to enable a pivotable connection between the bracket and the first panel or the second panel;panel is characterized by a width that extends between a first edge defining a second portion of the trough side hinge a second edge defining a second portion of a first panel hinge; attaching the second panel to a second of the at least two brackets, wherein the second panel is characterized by a width that extends between a first edge defining a second portion of the trough side hinge a second edge defining a second portion of a second panel hinge; and operably coupling the first panel to the second panel with the hinge member, wherein the hinge member is positioned between the first panel and the second panel and defines a first portion of the first panel hinge and a first portion of the second panel hinge for respective coupling to the second portion of the first panel hinge and the second portion of a second panel hinge, enabling both the first panel and the second panel to pivot independently relative to the hinge member, and further wherein the hinge member includes a handle positioned to rise above both the first panel and the second panel when the trough cover assembly is in a closed position, thereby facilitating manipulation of the trough cover assembly between the closed position and an open position, wherein the closed position provides a shield over a cable channel of the cable trough to protect cables within from external elements, and wherein the open position allows for unobstructed access to the channel.

34. The method of claim 33, wherein each of the first panel hinge and the second panel hinge are characterized as limited swing hinges, the second portion defining a C- shaped cross-section, edges of which are defined by a first flange and a second flange, and wherein each of the first portion of the first panel hinge and the first portion of the second panel hinge define a pin shaped and sized for receipt within the C-shaped crosssection of the respective second portion of the first panel hinge and the second panel hinge, thereby limiting the range of rotational motion of the trough cover assembly.

35. The method of claim 33, wherein each bracket is coupled to the cable trough by snapping onto a midportion of the cable trough, or sliding onto an end of the cable trough and into a desired position on the cable trough.3 by forcing out of a slot and removing from the cable trough, or by sliding off the end of the cable trough.

37. The method of claim 33, wherein the hinge member extends across a hinged coupling between the first panel and the second panel, further inhibiting debris from entering the channel of the cable trough when the trough cover assembly is in the closed position.

38. A cable trough assembly, comprising: a cable trough including a first side and a second side defining a channel therebetween; a first hinge bracket operably couplable to the first side of the cable trough; a second hinge bracket operably couplable to the second side of the cable trough; a first panel hingedly couplable to the first hinge bracket; a second panel hingedly couplable to the second hinge bracket; and a hinge member, wherein the hinge member is positioned between the first panel and the second panel to enable both the first panel and the second panel to independently pivot relative to the hinge member, thereby enabling the trough cover assembly to transition between a closed position substantially covering the channel of the cable trough, and an open position enabling access to the channel of the cable trough.

39. The cable trough assembly of claim 38, wherein one or more hinged connections between the hinge member and the first panel and the second panel are a limited swing hinges having a range of rotational motion restricted to approximately 90-degrees or less.

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