Telecommunication enclosures

Abstract

An enclosure including: a base and a cover including: a first cover rotatably coupled to the base to enclose a first area, wherein the first cover includes: a recessed pocket defining a second area; and a demarcation panel formed in a sidewall of the recessed pocket; a second cover movably coupled to the first cover to selectively enclose the second area when the second cover is in a closed position; and a plurality of adapters disposed at the demarcation panel, wherein the enclosure receives a first optical fiber, wherein the first optical fiber is spliced to a second optical fiber in the first area, wherein the second optical fiber is connected to a first adapter in the first area, and wherein a third optical fiber is connected to the first adapter and extends through the second area to a sealing block carried by the first cover. A method of configuring optical connections in an optical network involving an enclosure comprising a sealing structure, a first cover, a demarcation panel with an adapter, and a second cover is also disclosed.

Description

AFLOCA-324J-PCT TELECOMMUNICATION ENCLOSURES CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Serial No.63 / 560,255 filed on March 1, 2024, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to telecommunication enclosures, and more particularly to telecommunication enclosures for use with optical fiber networks. BACKGROUND

[0003] Optical fiber networks utilize optical fibers extending between two or more endpoints to transmit data between the two or more endpoints. These endpoints may be located at service providers, houses, office buildings, venues, wireless transmission devices, or a number of other locations. Data is transmitted through the optical fibers, typically in both directions, between the endpoints using optical signals. Data transmission requires continuous passage of the optical signals through the optical fibers. Any interruption or unexpectedly large loss of signal can result in one or more endpoints failing to receive data.

[0004] Since optical fiber networks include several endpoints all interconnected together and located remote from one another, it is typically necessary to use multiple optical fibers to complete the optical fiber network. These multiple fibers are joined together at splices, splitters, and other optical devices and other connection locations to transmit optical signals through the optical fiber network. Typically, connection locations are protected from harsh environmental elements. Enclosures allow for termination or joining of fibers, such as drop fibers with feeder cables, while protecting the connection locations from the environmental elements.

[0005] Improved enclosures are desired in the art. In particular, enclosures which provide effective environmental sealing, easy access, and convenient use would be advantageous.AFLOCA-324J-PCT BRIEF DESCRIPTION

[0006] Aspects and advantages of the invention in accordance with the present disclosure will be set forth in part in the following description, or may be obvious from the description, or may be learned through practice of the technology.

[0007] In accordance with one embodiment, an enclosure is provided. The enclosure includes a base; and a cover rotatably coupled to the base, wherein the cover comprises: a first cover rotatably coupled to the base to enclose a first area defined by a combination of the base and first cover when the first cover is in a closed position, wherein the first cover comprises: a recessed pocket defining a second area; and a demarcation panel formed in a sidewall of the recessed pocket; a second cover movably coupled to the first cover to selectively enclose the second area when the second cover is in a closed position; and a plurality of adapters disposed at the demarcation panel.

[0008] In accordance with another embodiment, a method of configuring optical connections in an optical network is provided. The method includes during a first period of time: inserting a first optical fiber through a sealing structure of an enclosure into a first area of the enclosure, wherein the sealing structure is disposed in a sidewall of a base of the enclosure; sealing the first optical fiber using the sealing structure; optically coupling the first optical fiber to a first side of an adapter carried by a demarcation panel of the first cover, wherein the first side of the adapter is disposed in the first area; and closing the first cover; and during a second period of time after completion of the first period of time: opening a second cover of the enclosure to provide access to a second area different from the first area, the second area housing a second side of the adapter; optically coupling a second optical fiber to the second side of the adapter; routing the second optical fiber from the second side of the adapter through a sealing block carried by the first cover; and closing the second cover.

[0009] In accordance with another embodiment, a cover for an enclosure is provided. The cover includes a first cover configured to be rotatably coupled to a base to enclose a first area defined by a combination of the base and first cover when the first cover is in a closed position relative to the base, wherein the first cover defines aAFLOCA-324J-PCT second area physically isolated from the first area, and wherein the first and second areas are separated by a demarcation panel comprising a plurality of adapters; and a second cover movably coupled directly to the first cover to selectively enclose the second area when the second cover is in a closed position.

[0010] 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 technology and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the technology. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] A full and enabling disclosure of the present invention, including the best mode of making and using the present systems and methods, directed to one of ordinary skill in the art, is set forth in the specification, which makes reference to the appended figures, in which:

[0012] FIG.1 is a perspective view of an enclosure for a telecommunication system in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0013] FIG.2 is a perspective view of the enclosure of FIG.1 as seen with a portion of a cover of the enclosure in an open position in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0014] FIG.3 is a perspective view of a portion of the enclosure of FIG.1 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0015] FIG.4 is an exploded perspective view of a cover for the enclosure of FIG. 1 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0016] FIG.5 is a linkage for a movable portion of a cover for the enclosure of FIG.1 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0017] FIG.6 is a capture plate configured to interface with the linkage of FIG.5 to retain the movable portion of the cover in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0018] FIG.7 is a top view of a portion of the cover of the enclosure of FIG.1 as seen in a closed position in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;AFLOCA-324J-PCT

[0019] FIG.8 is a perspective view of the cover of the enclosure of FIG.1 as seen with a portion of the cover moving from the closed position to an open position in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0020] FIG.9 is a perspective view of the cover of the enclosure of FIG.1 as seen with a portion of the cover moving from the closed position to an open position in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0021] FIG.10 is a perspective view of the cover of the enclosure of FIG.1 as seen with a portion of the cover in an open position in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0022] FIG.11 is a cross-sectional side view of a portion of the enclosure as seen in a first position in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0023] FIG.12 is a cross-sectional side view of a portion of the enclosure as seen in a second position in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0024] FIG.13 is a side view of the cover with a second (auxiliary) portion of the cover in an open position and a first (primary) portion of the cover in a closed position in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0025] FIG.14A is a side view of the cover with the second portion moving towards the closed position in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0026] FIG.14B is a side view of the cover with the second portion in the closed position in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0027] FIG.14C is a cross-sectional side view of the cover with the second portion in the closed position in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0028] FIG.15 is a perspective view of an internal volume of the enclosure in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0029] FIG.16 is a perspective view of the internal volume of the enclosure in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0030] FIG.17 is a perspective view of a divider, sealing structure, and feeder cable clamp in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;AFLOCA-324J-PCT

[0031] FIG.18 is a perspective view of a portion of a sealing structure for use with the enclosure of FIG.1 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0032] FIG.19 is a perspective view of a seal body for use with the sealing structure of FIG.18 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0033] FIG.20 is a partially exploded perspective view of the sealing structure of FIG.18 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0034] FIG.21 is a partially exploded perspective view of the sealing structure of FIG.18 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0035] FIG.22 is a perspective view of an enclosure in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0036] FIG.23 is a perspective view of the enclosure of FIG.22 as seen with a portion of a cover of the enclosure in an open position in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0037] FIG.24 is a side plan view of the cover of the enclosure of FIG.22 as seen with the portion of the cover of the enclosure in an open position in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0038] FIG.25 is an inside plan view of the cover of FIG.22 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0039] FIG.26 is a perspective view of the enclosure of FIG.22 as seen with the cover of the enclosure in an open position in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0040] FIG.27 is a cross-sectional side view of the enclosure as seen along line A-A in FIG.23 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0041] FIG.28 is a cross-sectional side view of the enclosure as seen along line B-B in FIG.22 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0042] FIG.29 is a perspective view of a sealing body in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0043] FIG.30 is a side plan view of the sealing body of FIG.29 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure; and

[0044] FIG.31 is a flow chart of a method of configuring optical connections in an optical network in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.AFLOCA-324J-PCT DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0045] Reference now will be made in detail to embodiments of the present invention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any implementation described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other implementations. Moreover, each example is provided by way of explanation, rather than limitation of, the technology. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that modifications and variations can be made in the present technology without departing from the scope or spirit of the claimed technology. 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 disclosure covers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents. 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.

[0046] 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 theAFLOCA-324J-PCT 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).

[0047] 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 ten degrees 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.

[0048] 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.

[0049] In general, enclosures for optical networks described in accordance with one or more embodiments herein can be utilized to protect optical components and spliced connections between optical fibers and any or all related optical components associated therewith. Part of the protection can include mitigation of exposure to environmental elements, such as wind, water, dirt, and the like which might otherwise degrade the optical components, the fibers, or both, thereby reducing signal transmissibility therethrough.

[0050] Enclosures described herein can define different access areas each accessible by different means. Each access area can be accessed by a same or different technician at different points in the lifecycle of the enclosure, e.g., during different installation or upgrading / servicing operations. These operations may occur on the same day, on different days (sometimes months or even years apart), or a combination thereof. For example, a first area of the enclosure can be accessed during initial installation and wiring of the enclosure. Accessing the first area, the initial installer can manage an incoming optical cable, such as a branch cable. A second area different than the first area can be accessed during one or more follow-up wiring operations where network endpoints are optically coupled to the optical network, e.g., using drop cables. The technicians associated with the initial installation and the follow up wiring operation can be different from each other and have different skill levels relative toAFLOCA-324J-PCT one another. For example, the technician associated with the initial installation can have a relatively high technical acumen while the technician associated with the follow up wiring operation can have a relatively low technical acumen by comparison. By separating the first and second areas from one another, access to more technical aspects of the enclosure housed in the first area can be limited to the technician with the higher technical acumen while access to the second area can be reserved for the lower skilled technician, or accessible by both the lower and higher skilled technicians. By splitting these two areas into independent volumes and restricting access to the first compartment after initial installation is completed, the risk of the second (relatively lower skilled) technician creating problems and issues is greatly reduced.

[0051] The enclosure may be formed from two or more components, such as a base and a cover, rotatably coupled together. The base can include a rear wall defining a first major surface of the enclosure which faces an underlying structure to which the enclosure is mounted. Sidewalls extend from the base towards an open front of the enclosure. In an embodiment, the sidewalls include first and second sidewalls defining opposite, e.g., left and right, sides of the enclosure, and a top sidewall extending between the first and second sidewalls. The bottom sidewall, i.e., the sidewall opposite the top sidewall, can be open and define structure for receiving and sealingly interfacing with a sealing structure.

[0052] The cover may be pivotally coupled to the base through a hinged interface defined at the first (lateral) sidewall or the top sidewall. The hinged interface can include a plurality of hinge elements partially defined by the base and partially defined by the cover. The hinged elements cooperate to define a rotatable axis about which the cover can pivot. In an embodiment, the rotatable axis can be oriented in the vertical, or generally vertical, orientation when the enclosure is mounted to an underlying structure. In another embodiment, the rotatable axis can be oriented in the horizontal, or generally horizontal, orientation when the enclosure is mounted to the underlying structure. The cover can pivot about the hinge between an open position and a closed position. In the open position, access is permitted to at least one of the first and second areas defined by the enclosure. Conversely, in the closed position, access to at least one of the first and second areas is restricted.AFLOCA-324J-PCT

[0053] The base and cover can be secured together in the closed position by a latching structure including, for example, a plurality of individual latches. In an embodiment, the plurality of latches includes a first set of latches disposed at the first sidewall and a second set of latches disposed at the second sidewall. At least two of the second set of latches can be spaced apart from each other by one or more of the plurality of hinges.

[0054] The latches are configured to draw the cover towards the base to compress a seal between the cover and the base to seal the interior of the enclosure. The latches may be cammed relative to the base and snap to the locked positions after passing a critical rotational threshold. In the locked position, force required to open each latch may be considerable. Thus, the latches may include leverage engagement aspects that permit the use of a leverage tool to interface with the latches to provide leverage to the technician when locking and unlocking each of the latches. In an embodiment, the leverage engagement aspect is an opening extending through a handle of the latch. The technician can insert a leverage tool, such as a screwdriver, into the opening and apply torque to the leverage tool to unlock the latch.

[0055] The cover can include a multi-piece construction that allows for selective access to one of the first and second areas. The multi-piece construction can include a first (main or primary) cover and a second (auxiliary) cover. The first cover may be coupled directly to the base, e.g., through the plurality of hinges and / or latches. The second cover may be coupled directly to the first cover, for example, through a link. The link can include, for example, a linkage that interfaces with each of the first cover and the second cover. The linkage may allow the second cover to pivot, translate, or both relative to the first cover. The technician can open the second cover by pivoting and / or translating the second cover using the link. In an embodiment, the link maintains the second cover in the open position. In the open position, the second cover may be oriented generally horizontally. In the open position, the second cover may form a hood over an opened area of the enclosure, thereby mitigating ingress of debris, like rain, when the second cover is open.

[0056] As previously described, first and second areas are defined by separate portions of the enclosure. The first area may correspond to the space within the enclosure in which initial installation steps are performed. Conversely, the secondAFLOCA-324J-PCT area may correspond to the space within the enclosure in which secondary (follow up) steps are performed.

[0057] The first area may be defined by a combination of the base and the cover. More particularly, the first area may correspond to a volume delimited by the base and the first cover, regardless of a position of the second cover. The second area may be defined by a combination of the first cover and the second cover, regardless of a position of the first cover. For example, the first cover may include a recessed pocket that extends into the first area so as to reduce a size of the first area by a corresponding volume. The recessed pocket can include a rear wall connected to the first cover by a sidewall. The sidewall of the recessed pocket can define a demarcation panel, described in greater detail below. In an embodiment, the first cover (including the recessed pocket) can be formed from a single-piece construction.

[0058] At least a portion of the first area can be disposed behind the second area (i.e., the portion of the first area is disposed between the rear wall of the enclosure and the second area). The rear wall of the second area may be canted (angularly offset) relative to the inner surface of the first cover and / or the rear wall of the base. The canted rear wall of the second area may cant towards the rear wall of the base in a direction towards the demarcation panel to permit easier user access to the demarcation panel while providing sufficient room for the sealing structure in a small dimensional enclosure envelope.

[0059] The first area can define an incoming receiving area through which one or more incoming optical cables are routed. The incoming optical cable(s) can be routed into the first area through the sidewall in the base. More particularly, the incoming optical cable(s) can extend through the sealing structure disposed in the sidewall of the base. The first area can include one or more splice areas, splitters, wavelength division multiplexers, or other optical components used to connect the individual optical fibers of the incoming optical cable(s) with outgoing optical fibers associated with drop cables routed to individual subscriber locations. In some implementations, the first area defines routing features which provide support for the incoming optical cable(s) to route around a perimeter of the enclosure. It may be desirable to route the incoming optical cables around the perimeter of the enclosure at least one full rotation to provide stress relief, to introduce slack cable for future cable management, toAFLOCA-324J-PCT prevent fiber breakage during cable tensioning, to provide length compensation, and / or to protect against bending loss. The first area may define one or more trays which pivot relative to the enclosure. For example, the first space may house a fixed tray and a rotatable tray disposed in a stack. Each of the trays can include a splice region having supporting structure that provides strain relief to junctions (i.e., splices) between optical fibers.

[0060] The incoming optical fibers are broken out of their jacket and individual optical fibers are routed to the trays where they are spliced to secondary fibers. The secondary fibers may be preconnectorized, i.e., each including an end terminated by a connector. The incoming optical fibers are spliced to the non-connetorized ends of the secondary fibers. The spliced junction is protected by the splice regions on the tray(s). The secondary fibers are then routed from the trays to be connected to the demarcation panel.

[0061] The demarcation panel defines an interface between the first area and the second area. The demarcation panel may include a wall defining a plurality of openings. The wall can extend, for example, from an inner surface of the first cover. In some implementations, the wall is canted (angularly offset from perpendicular) relative to the inner surface of the first cover. The plurality of openings can be aligned in one or more rows along the wall. Each opening is sized and shaped to receive an adapter. Adapters can be snap fit onto the wall at the openings and provide optical connection therethrough. Alternatively, or in addition, the adapters can be threadably interfaced onto the wall or attached to the wall using another technique.

[0062] One side of each of the adapters is disposed on a first side of the wall corresponding with the first area and a second side of each of the adapters is disposed on a second side of the wall corresponding to the second area. Connectorized ends of the secondary fibers can be connected to the first side of the adapters. In most installations, all of the adapters in the demarcation panel receive an optical fiber at the first side during initial installation and commissioning of the enclosure. The optical fibers of the incoming optical cable may be connected to the demarcation panel regardless of whether a drop cable is to be connected to a second side of one or more of the adapters at the time of installation.AFLOCA-324J-PCT

[0063] At the same time, or a later time, the second side of the adapters are each connected with a drop cable routed to an endpoint location, such as a subscriber location. A dummy plug or dust cover may be connected to the second side of any unused adapters carried in the demarcation panel prior to connectorization with a drop cable.

[0064] The second side of the adapters are associated with the second area, e.g., accessible from the second area. Thus, when connecting drop cables to the individual fibers of the incoming (upstream) optical cable, the technician need only access the second area to plug a connectorized end of the drop cable to the second end of one of the adapters. The drop cable is then routed out of the enclosure, e.g., through a sealing block or one or more ruggedized connectors, e.g., carried by the cover. The second cover is then moved to the closed position and locked, e.g., using one or more of the latches.

[0065] The sealing block may be carried in a channel defined by the first cover. The channel may extend around the entire perimeter of the second area and form a seal between the first and second covers. The sealing block includes a body defining a plurality of cable receiving areas each configured to sealingly engage one of the drop cables. The cable receiving areas can include cutouts, slits, or the like. In one implementation, the sealing block comprises a plurality of slits that extend into the body and are canted (angularly offset) relative to a direction of compression between the first and second covers. Canted slits can enhance sealing around the drop cables by reducing puckering and / or rippling of the slits during compression. Cable receiving areas in the sealing block that are not actively in use, i.e., do not yet include drop cables, may optionally receive inserts (blanks) which ride within the cable receiving area to take up volume and simulate presence of a drop cable. At such later time that additional drop cable(s) are connected to unused adapters in the demarcation panel, the inserts can be removed from the slits and replaced with the now-connected drop cables.

[0066] In some implementations, one or more of the optical fibers associated with the incoming optical cable may bypass the demarcation panel. That is, one or more of the optical fibers may not be set up for drop cable attachment at the enclosure. Instead, the bypass optical fibers may be routed to another enclosure for furtherAFLOCA-324J-PCT distribution at a different location. Instead of passing through the demarcation panel, these bypass optical fibers may exit the enclosure directly from the first area, e.g., through the sealing structure. In some implementations, the bypass optical fibers may exit the enclosure through an opening in alignment with the input port of the sealing structure through which the incoming optical cable is extended. Alternatively, these bypass optical fibers may be stored within the enclosure, such as tied together and wrapped around the perimeter of the enclosure until such time that it is desired to route the bypass optical fibers to a further enclosure.

[0067] Enclosures described herein facilitate easy network expansion in both low- density and high-density environments while permitting use of a relatively low skilled labor force, thus increasing network flexibility without increasing network cost. After the enclosure is initially installed, subsequent trips to connect individual subscribers to the optical network can be performed using plug-and-play techniques described herein without the risk of damage to the underlying optical network.

[0068] Referring now to the drawings, FIG.1 illustrates a perspective view of an enclosure 100 as seen in accordance with an example embodiment. The enclosure 100 may be used to house optical fibers (or portions of optical fibers, like optical fiber ends), connections and / or splices between two or more optical fibers, optical components (like splitters, filters, wave division multiplexers, or the like), and / or associated structures. The enclosure 100 includes first and second major surfaces 102, 104 extending generally parallel with one another and spaced apart by a sidewall 106. The enclosure 100 defines a base 108 and a cover 110. The base 108 can define the sidewall 106 and the second major surface 104 while the cover 110 defines the first major surface 102.

[0069] The cover 110 includes a multi-component construction that permits selective access to different portions of an interior of the enclosure 100. For example, the cover 110 can include a first portion 112 and a second portion 114. The first portion 112 can directly interface with the base 108. The second portion 114 can directly interface with the first portion 112. Thus, the first portion 112 may be referred to as a “primary portion” or “main portion” of the cover 110 and the second portion 112 may be referred to as an “auxiliary portion” of the cover 110. Use of the terms primary, main, and / or auxiliary is not intended to prescribe relative importance of theAFLOCA-324J-PCT portions and is only used descriptively to delimit the two portions 112, 114 of the cover 110 from one another.

[0070] The second (auxiliary) portion 112 of the cover 110 can provide restricted access to the interior of the enclosure 100. That is, the auxiliary portion can move between a closed position, in which access to the interior of the enclosure 100 is prevented, and an open position, in which restricted access to the interior is possible. Restricted access refers to access of the interior of the enclosure 100 that is less than complete (total) access. For example, the volume accessible through the opening defined when the auxiliary portion of the cover 110 is in the open position (but the primary portion of the cover 110 is in a closed position) can be less than the total volume of the interior of the enclosure 100. When access to the entire volume of the interior of the enclosure 100 is required, the primary portion of the cover 110 can be moved from a closed position to an open position.

[0071] The primary portion of the cover 110 can pivot about a rotational axis 116 to move between the open and closed positions. In an embodiment, the rotational axis 116 is disposed along an X-axis which extends in a horizontal direction when the enclosure 100 is in use. In such a manner, the primary portion of the cover 110 can open in the vertical direction about the rotational axis 116.

[0072] The auxiliary portion of the cover 110 can pivot about a rotational axis 118 to move between the open and closed positions. In an embodiment, the rotational axis 118 is oriented parallel with respect to the rotational axis 116. That is, the rotational axis 118 can also be disposed along the X-axis. In such a manner, the auxiliary portion of the cover 110 can open in the vertical direction about the rotational axis 118.

[0073] Retention structures, such as latches 120, can selectively maintain the cover 110 (and relative components thereof) in the closed position(s). In an embodiment, the latches 120 include a plurality of latches, such as at least two latches, at least three latches, at least four latches, at least eight latches, etc. The latches 120 can be disposed on opposite sides of the enclosure 100. For example, a first latch 120A (or a first set of latches) can be disposed on a first side 122 of the enclosure 100 and a second latch 120B (or a second set of latches) can be disposed on a second side 124 of the enclosure 100. In an embodiment, the latches 120 can beAFLOCA-324J-PCT arranged in sets. The first latch 120A can include a set of latches (i.e., a plurality of latches) and / or the second latch 120B can include a set of latches (i.e., a different plurality of latches). The first and second latches 120A, 120B can be reflectively symmetrical with one another about a vertical centerline of the enclosure 100. Force introduced between the base 108 and cover 110 can thus be applied evenly across opposite lateral sides thereof.

[0074] In the depicted embodiment, the cover 110 is retained in the closed position by the first set of latches 120A and the second set of latches 120B. Each of the first and second sets of latches 120A and 120B includes three latches 120. The three latches 120 of each set 120A and 120B are equally spaced apart from one another along the Y-axis (e.g., a vertical axis when the enclosure 100 is in use). The latches 120 may be fungible such that the latches may be swapped between locations. For instance, if the lowermost latch 120 (responsible for retaining the auxiliary portion of the cover 110 as described below) breaks, the middle latch 120 can be relocated and replace the lowermost latch 120 to ensure sealing at the auxiliary portion of the cover 110.

[0075] In an embodiment, each latch 120 (or at least one of the latches 120) can include a handle 126 and a bail 128. The handle 126 can be pivotally coupled to the sidewall 106 to move between first and second rotational positions. The handle 126 may be cammed relative to the base 108 such that the bail 128 snaps into the locked position when the handle 126 is brought to the lock position. The bail 128 can be rotatably coupled to the handle 126 and selectively interface with bail receiving features (such as grooves 130) disposed at, in, or on the cover 110. When the handle 126 is rotated from the first (unlocked) rotational position to the second (locked) rotational position, the bail 128 is pulled into engagement with the groove 130 to lock the cover 110 (or a portion of the cover 110) in the closed position. In some instances, the handle 126 can snap into the second rotational position to form a positive lock between the latch 120 and the cover 110. The handle 126, or another portion of the latch 120, can generate a tactile and / or audible indication to the technician when snapped into the second rotational (locked) position. To unlock the latch 120, the handle 126 is rotated from the second rotational position towards the first rotational position. In some instances, the positive lock formed between the latch 120 and coverAFLOCA-324J-PCT 110 can create a high initial force threshold to overcome. That is, unlocking the latches 120 may require a relatively high application of force.

[0076] The handle 126 can include an engagement structure 132 configured to interface with a leverage tool to apply leverage to the handle 126 and generate the relatively high force required to overcome the positive lock formed between the latch 120 and cover 110. The engagement structure 132 can include, for example, an opening into which an elongated tool, such as a screwdriver or Allen wrench, can be inserted. The user can apply force to the elongated tool (i.e., at a location spaced apart from the handle 126) to generate sufficient force to overcome the positive lock.

[0077] In the depicted embodiment, the first (primary) portion 112 of the cover 110 is retained in the closed position by two latches 120 on each side of the enclosure 100 (four total latches 120). The second (auxiliary) portion 114 of the cover 110 is retained in the closed position by one latch 120 on each side of the enclosure 100 (two total latches 120). The latch(es) 120 retaining the second portion 114 of the cover 110 in the closed position may also assist in retaining the first portion 112 of the cover 110 in the closed position. For example, the latch(es) 120 associated with the second portion 114 of the cover 110 may compress the second portion 114 into the first portion 112, and the first portion 112 into the base 108.

[0078] Access to the restricted volume of the enclosure 100 (i.e., the volume accessible by the second portion 114 of the cover 110) can be performed by opening two latches 120, whereas access to the entire volume of the enclosure 100 may require opening a greater number of latches 120 (six latches 120 in the depicted embodiment).

[0079] FIG.2 illustrates the enclosure 100 with the second (auxiliary) portion 114 of the cover 110 in the open position, thereby permitting access to the restricted area 134. When the second portion 114 is closed, a sealed interface 136 is formed between the first and second portions 112 and 114. The sealed interface 136 can include a seal 138, such as a polymeric bead, that is compressed under force exerted between the first and second portions 112 and 114 when the latches 120 (or at least one of the latches 120) are locked. The seal 138 can be carried by the cover 110 such that the seal 138 remains coupled with the cover 110 when the second portion 114 of the cover 110 is moved to the open position. In some instances, the first portion 112 of the cover 110 can include a complementary surface / structural feature that interfacesAFLOCA-324J-PCT with the seal 138. For example, the first portion 112 of the cover 110 can include a ridge 137 or other projecting structure that presses into the seal 138.

[0080] Cables, fiber optic cables in particular, enter and exit the enclosure 100 through an opening 140. The opening 140 can be disposed at an opposite end of the enclosure as compared to hinges 142 (see also FIG.8) that provide pivoting for the cover 110 about the rotational axis 116. In this regard, the opening 140 is disposed at, or near, a lowermost portion of the enclosure 100 to mitigate water ingress when the enclosure 100 is in use. A sealing structure 144 can enclose the opening 140 and provide individual routing pathways, such as pathways 146A and 146B, for cables.

[0081] FIG.3 illustrates an enlarged view of the sealing structure 144 disposed in the opening 140 in accordance with an embodiment. As depicted, the second portion 114 of the cover 110 can interface with the sealing structure 144 via a latch 148. The latch 148 may be part of the sealing structure 144 (such as rotatably coupled to the sealing structure 144) and interface with a feature (such as a groove 150) of the cover 110. The latch 148 can draw the second portion 114 of the cover 110 towards the sealing structure 144, increasing sealing characteristics at the opening 140.

[0082] When the cover 110, i.e., both the first and second portions 112 and 114 of the cover 110, are closed (and more particularly when the first and second portions 112 and 114 of the cover 110 are compressed into the base 108 by the positive lock generated via latches 120), the sealing structure 144 can substantially seal the opening 140 to prevent ingress of contaminants into the interior volume of the enclosure 100. As described with respect to FIG.2, the sealing structure 144 can define individual routing pathways 146A and 146B that receive certain types of cables and provide sealing therewith. In some implementations, the routing pathways 146A route feeder cables into the enclosure 100 and the routing pathways 146B route drop cables (or distribution cables) from the enclosure 100 to various service locations. The sealing structure 144, and in particular routing pathways 146A and 146B, can provide sealing at the opening 140 in a manner disclosed in International Application Number PCT / US2023 / 027121, filed July 7, 2023, and titled “TELECOMMUNICATION ENCLOSURES”, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0083] FIG.4 illustrates an exploded view of the cover 110, including both the first portion 112 and the second portion 114. The second portion 114 of the cover 110AFLOCA-324J-PCT may be movable relative to the first portion 112 of the cover 110 via a link 152. The link 152 can be formed by a capture plate 154 and a linkage 156. The capture plate 154 can be retained by the first portion 112 of the cover 110, such as within a recessed area 158 of the first portion 112.The capture plate 154 can be retained in the recessed area 158 by an adhesive, an interference fit, a snap fit, a threaded fastener, a non- threaded fastener, soldering, or the like such that the capture plate 154 is effectively integral with the cover 110. In some instances, the capture plate 154 can be unitary with the first portion 112 of the cover 110 (e.g., aspects of the capture plate 154 can be formed by a one-piece first portion 112). The linkage 156 can interface with the capture plate 154 and the second portion 114 of the cover 110 to allow rotation and / or translation of the second portion 114 relative to the first portion 112.

[0084] Referring to FIG.5 the linkage 156 can include a body 160 defining a first engagement structure 162 (such as a set of first engagement structures 162A, 162B) and a second engagement structure 164 (such as a set of second engagement structures 164A, 164B). The second portion 114 of the cover 110 can interface with the first engagement structure(s) 162. The linkage 156 can interface with the capture plate 154. The second portion 114 of the cover 110 can rotate relative to the first engagement structure(s) 162 and the linkage 156 can rotate relative to the capture plate 154 about the second engagement structures 164.

[0085] In an embodiment, the first engagement structure(s) 162 and / or the second engagement structure(s) 164 can include projections extending from the body 160 of the linkage 156. The projections of the first and second engagement structure(s) 162, 164 may extend parallel to one another. The projections of the first and second engagement structure(s) 162, 164 can interface with capturing structures of the second portion 114 and capture plate 154, respectively, to couple the linkage 156 to the capture plate 154. The capturing structure of the second portion 114 of the cover 110 can include one or more apertures, such as openings 166 (see, e.g., FIG.4) that each receive one of the projections to provide a rotational interface between the second portion 112 of the cover 110 and the linkage 156. The capturing structure of the capture plate 154 can include one or more travel slots 168 that each receive one of the projections to provide a rotational and / or translational interface between the linkage 156 and the capture plate 154. The second engagement structure(s) 164 may rotateAFLOCA-324J-PCT about an axis that extends through the travel slots 168. The axis can translate along a length L of the travel slot(s) 168. In this regard, the linkage 156 can rotate and / or translate (such as both) within the travel slot(s) 168. The travel slot(s) 168 can retain the linkage 156 at the capture plate 154.

[0086] Assembly of the link 152 will now be described with reference to FIGS.4 to 6 in accordance with an example embodiment. The first engagement structure(s) 162 of the linkage 156 can be coupled with opening(s) 166 in the second portion 114 of the cover 110. The linkage 156 may then be introduced to the capture plate 154 to align the second engagement structure(s) 162 with the travel slot(s) 168. The capture plate 154 may then be coupled to the first portion 112 of the cover 110, such as at the recessed area 158, e.g., using a plurality of threaded fasteners. In certain implementations, the travel slot(s) 168 can be completed (i.e., closed to prevent egress of the first engagement structure(s) 162 therefrom) by coupling the capture plate 154 to the recessed area 158. For example, referring to FIG.4, the recessed area 158 can include lands 157 that, together with the travel slot(s) 168 defined by the capture plate 154, form a retention structure that prevents egress of the linkage 156 from the first portion 112 of the cover 110. In an embodiment, the lands 157 can be disposed on opposite sides of the recessed area 158 to interact with the travel slot(s) 168 on each side of the capture plate 154. The second portion 114 of the cover 110 can then be moved between open and closed positions as described below. It should be understood that the assembly steps described above may be reordered, replaced, or otherwise changed to accommodate different types of enclosures 100 and different types of links 152.

[0087] FIGS.7 to 10 illustrate the second portion 114 of the cover 110 as seen moving from the closed position to the open position. More specifically, the second portion 114 of the cover 110 is depicted moving from a closed position (FIG.7) to a locked-open position (FIG.10) as described below. In the locked-open position, the second portion 114 of the cover 110 is maintained in an access state whereby access to the restricted area of the internal volume of the enclosure 100 is permitted. The term “locked-open” refers to the ability of the second portion 114 of the cover 110 to remain in the access state without user support (e.g., a user propping open the second portion 114).AFLOCA-324J-PCT

[0088] Referring to FIGS.1 and 7, the second portion 114 of the cover 110 can form a fluid tight interface with the first portion 112 of the cover 110 and the sealing structure 144 (FIG.2) when the first and second portions 112, 114 of the cover 110 are in closed positions. With the second portion 114 of the cover 110 in the closed position, the linkage 156 can lie flat (parallel) with respect to the major surface 102 of the enclosure 100. As shown in FIG.6, the capture plate 154 can include one or more rear slots 170 and one or more front slots 172. The slots 170, 172 can selectively interface with the first engagement structure(s) 162 when the second portion 114 of the cover 110 is in certain positions (like the open and closed positions). For example, with the second portion 114 of the cover 110 in the closed position as depicted in FIGS.1 and 7, the first engagement structure(s) 162 can interface with the front slots 172.

[0089] Referring to FIGS.8 and 9, as the second portion 114 of the cover 110 is rotated about one or both of the first and / or second engagement structure(s) 162, 164, the linkage 156 can slide relative to the capture plate 154, e.g., with the first engagement structure(s) 162 travelling in the travel slot(s) 168. As the linkage 156 approaches the slots 172, the linkage 156 may be further rotated until the first engagement structure(s) 162 are aligned with and fit into the rear slots 170 as depicted in FIG.10. The first engagement structure(s) 162 may snap fit into the slots 170, thereby capturing the linkage 156 in the position depicted in FIG.10 (i.e., with the second portion 114 of the cover 110 in the open position) until such time that the second portion 114 of the cover 110 is to be reconfigured back to the closed position as depicted in FIGS.1 and 7. In some instances, the linkage 156 may be referred to as being “inverted” or “upside-down” in the position depicted in FIG.10. The linkage 156 can be uninverted by rotating the linkage 156 back to a position associated with the second portion 114 of the cover 110 in the closed position, e.g., as depicted in FIG.7.

[0090] To reconfigure the second portion 114 of the cover 110 from the open position to the closed position, the steps described above with respect to FIGS.7 to 10 may be repeated in reverse. For example, the linkage 156 can be rotated to disengage the first engagement structure(s) 162 from the slots 170. The linkage 156 can be further rotated and translated towards the slots 170 until the linkage 156 can beAFLOCA-324J-PCT aligned with the capture plate 154 such that the first engagement structure(s) 162 are aligned with and fit into the slots 172 as depicted in FIGS.1 and 7. Referring again to FIG.6, the slots 170, 172 may have different shapes, sizes, or configurations such that the user experience installing the first engagement structure(s) 162 into the slot(s) 170 is different than installing the first engagement structure(s) 162 into the slot(s) 172. For example, interaction between the first engagement structure(s) 162 and the slot(s) 170 may generate a tactile indication (e.g., a snap) indicative of positive engagement while interaction between the first engagement structure(s) 162 and the slot(s) 170 may not generate a tactile indication. It should be understood that the slots 170, 172 described above are merely exemplary. Other types of engagement interactions can included detent motion, the use of movable locking structure like latches, or the like.

[0091] FIGS.11 and 12 depict cross-sectional side views as seen along the X-axis (FIG.1) along Line A-A in FIG.10. In particular, FIG.11 illustrates the second portion 114 a seen in a first position and FIG.12 illustrates the second portion 114 as seen in a second position translationally offset from the first position. The first position depicted in FIG.11 may occur when the first engagement structure(s) 162 initially align with and are inserted into the slot(s) 170. The second position depicted in FIG.12 may occur after the first engagement structure(s) 162 are inserted into the slot(s) 170 and translated in a direction 174. As shown, translational movement of the first engagement structure(s) 162 in the direction 174 causes the first engagement structure(s) 162 to interface with an interference surface 176, such as an overhang wall of the capture plate 154. Combined with the second engagement structure(s) 164 interaction within the travel slot(s) 168, positioning the second portion 114 of the cover 110 in the second position (FIG.12) can result in the second portion 114 locking relative to the capture plate 154, and thus lock the first portion 112 of the cover 110 in the open position. To unlock the second portion 114, the first engagement structure(s) 164 are translated in a direction opposite to direction 174 until reaching the first position illustrated in FIG.11. After reaching the first position (or close thereto), the second portion 114 of the cover 110 can be rotated to the closed position as previously described. This process may be repeated as necessary when access to the restricted volume of the enclosure 100 is desired.AFLOCA-324J-PCT

[0092] When locked in the open position, the second portion 114 of the cover 110 may form a perpendicular relationship with the surface 102 of the first portion 112 of the cover 110. For example, referring to FIG.13, the surface 102 can lie along a plane A that is perpendicular to a plane B upon which the second portion 114 of the cover 110 is disposed along.

[0093] FIGS.14A to 14C illustrate side views of the cover 110 as the second portion 114 is moved to the closed position. In particular 14A illustrates a side view of the cover 110 depicting a final motion path for the second portion 114 upon reaching the first portion 112. As depicted, the final motion path may be substantially, or fully, linear. For example, the second portion 114 may be translated directly towards the first portion 112 as part of a final motion path to sealingly interface with the first portion 112. FIG.14B illustrates the cover 110 as seen with the second portion 114 in the closed position. FIG.14C illustrates a cross-sectional view of the cover 110 as seen with the second portion 114 in the closed position.

[0094] FIG.15 illustrates a view of the enclosure 100 as seen with the cover 110 and some of the latches 120 removed. As depicted, the interior volume 178 of the enclosure 100 can define space for cables to enter, be operated on, and exit the enclosure 100. The enclosure 100 can define a front compartment 180 depicted in FIG.15 and a rear compartment 182 depicted in FIG.16 separated from the front compartment 180 by a divider 184. The divider 184 may be sized to be a close fit with the sidewalls 106 of the enclosure 100. Use of a close fit divider 184 can prevent access to the rear compartment 182 when the cover 110 (or portions thereof) are in the open position.

[0095] As depicted in FIG.16, the rear compartment 182 can house one or more cable management devices, such as feeder cable clamps 186 that receive and secure feeder cables to the enclosure 100. The feeder cable clamps 186 can include interfacing structure 188 that allow the feeder cable clamps 186 to be coupled to the divider 184, such as to a backside of the divider 184. The divider 184 can be further coupled to the sealing structure 144. For instance, referring to FIG.17, illustrates the divider 184 as seen removed from the enclosure 100. The divider 184 is coupled to the sealing structure 144 through an interface 190 (e.g., using a threaded fastener 192) and the divider 184 is coupled to the feeder cable clamps 186 through the interfacingAFLOCA-324J-PCT structure 188 (e.g., a threaded fastener 194). Other types of interfaces and interfacing structure are contemplated herein. The scope of the disclosure is not intended to limit the interfacing structure or methodology for coupling the divider 184 to the feeder cable clamps 186 or sealing structure 144.

[0096] In some implementations, feeder cables enter the enclosure 100 through the routing pathway 146A (FIG.2), pass through the rear compartment 182 (FIG.16), pass through or around the divider 184 into the front compartment 180 (FIG.15) where the cable fibers are spliced, split, filtered, or otherwise controlled at a location 196. The location 196 can include, for example, a rotatable tray 198 and one or more splice regions, splitter regions, filter regions, or the like. The signal travelling through the feeder cable is thus split into various components which pass through a demarcation panel 200 via one or more cables 202, jumper cables, stub cables, or the like. The cable(s) 202 are connected to adapters 204 disposed at the demarcation panel 200. The signal then travels through cable(s) (not illustrated) that pass through the restricted access area covered by the second portion 114 of the cover 110, and exit through routing pathways 146B (FIG.2).

[0097] Sealing at routing pathways 146B may be provided by a sealing block 206, such as depicted in FIG.2. The sealing block 206 may include a block of material capable of deforming to accommodate and seal gaps around the cables passing from the demarcation panel 200. Example materials include polymers, natural rubbers, gels, and the like. Referring to FIG.18, the sealing structure 144 can include a basin 208 in which the sealing block 206 (FIGS.2 and 19) is received. The basin 208 may be recessed into a body 210 of the sealing structure 144. Projections 212 (or other engagement structures) may extend into the basin 208 and interact with the sealing block 206. In some instances, the sealing block 206 may include pockets 214 (FIG. 19) that receive the projections 212. The interference fit between the projections 212 and pockets 214 can cause the sealing block 206 to remain attached to the body 210 of the sealing structure 144, e.g., when the second portion 214 of the cover 210 is open. The compressive force between the second portion 214 and the base 108, as constrained by bulkheads 216 and 218, can serve to retain the sealing block 206 in the basin 208 when the cover 210 is closed.AFLOCA-324J-PCT

[0098] Cables exiting the enclosure, such as drop cables to individual service locations, can pass through the routing pathways 146B defined in the sealing block 206 and through recessed portions 220 of the bulkheads 216 and 218. Cables can be introduced into the routing pathways 146B through slits 222. Once properly aligned, the cables can be coupled to the sealing structure 144, such as through flanges 224. A cable tie or other wrapping / clamping structure can extend around the cable and one of the flanges 224. When the cable tie is cinched tight, the cable becomes statically (or relatively statically) fixed to the flange 224, thereby preventing cable pullout through the routing pathway 146B and reducing stress on internal components housed within the enclosure 100 that support the cable(s) therein.

[0099] FIG.20 illustrates the sealing block 206 spaced apart from the basin 208 as seen prior to installation therewith. FIG.21 illustrates the sealing block 206 disposed in the basin 208 with portions of the routing pathway 146A depicted in an exploded view.

[0100] FIGS.22 to 28 illustrate an enclosure 2100 in accordance with another embodiment. FIG.22 is a perspective view of the enclosure 2100 as seen with a cover 2102 in the fully closed position; FIG.23 is a perspective view of the enclosure 2100 as seen with a portion of the cover 2102 in an open position; FIG.24 is a side view of the cover 2102 as seen with the portion of the cover in the open position as seen in FIG.23; FIG.25 is a plan view of an inside portion of the cover 2102; FIG.26 is a perspective view of the enclosure 2100 as seen with the cover 2102 in the open position; FIG.27 is a cross-sectional side view of the enclosure 2100 as seen along Line A-A in FIG.23; and FIG.28 is a cross-sectional side view of the enclosure as seen along Line B-B in FIG.22.

[0101] The enclosure 2100 may include components and / or attributes as described with respect to the enclosure 100. For example, the cover 2102 may be rotatably coupled to a base 2104 through a hinged interface. However, unlike the enclosure 100, the hinged interface of the enclosure 2100 can allow for pivoting of the cover 2102 about a vertical axis associated with the Y-axis (a vertical axis when the enclosure 2100 is mounted in the field).

[0102] Referring initially to FIG.22, the cover 2102 is rotatably coupled to the base 2104 about a hinge 2106 defined at a lateral sidewall 2108. The hinge 2106AFLOCA-324J-PCT includes a plurality of hinges collectively defining a rotational axis 2110 extending in the Y-axis. To open and close the cover 2102, the cover is rotated about the rotational axis 2110.

[0103] The cover 2102 includes a first (primary) portion 2112 and a second (auxiliary) portion 2114. The first and second portions 2112, 2114 may be coupled together in a manner similar to the primary and secondary portions 110, 112 of the enclosure 100 (FIGS.1 and 2). For example, the first and second portions 2112, 2114 may be coupled together through a link 2116 that allows the second portion 2114 of the cover 2102 to rotate about a rotational axis 2118 oriented parallel with the X-axis. The rotational axis 2110, 2118 may be angularly offset from one another by approximately 90°. In this regard, the cover 2102 (including both the first and second portions 2112, 2114) may open in a first direction, and the second portion 2114 of the cover 2102 may open relative to the first portion 2112 of the cover 2102 in a second direction oriented perpendicular to the first direction. The first direction may correspond with a lateral direction, such that the cover 2102 opens laterally, and the second direction may correspond with a vertical direction, such that the second portion 2114 opens vertically. In some instances, the cover 2102 may be in the open position relative to the base 2104 while the second portion 2114 of the cover 2102 is in the open position relative to the first portion 2112 of the cover 2102. Alternatively, or additionally, the second portion 2114 of the cover 2102 may be opened when the cover 2102 is in the closed position.

[0104] As described above, one or more incoming optical cables C1 are routed into the enclosure 2100 through a sealing structure 2115 retained in the base 2104. The individual optical fibers of the incoming optical cable(s) C1 are connected to outgoing drop cables C2with the interconnection location protectively housed within the confines of the enclosure 2100. With the cover 2102 locked in the closed position, such as seen, for example, in FIG.22, the interconnection location is protected against environmental exposure, thereby prolonging the life of the optical network.

[0105] FIG.23 illustrates the first portion 2112 of the cover 2102 in the closed position and the second portion 2114 of the cover 2102 in the open position. As shown, the second portion 2114 of the cover 2102 may be substantially similar to the second portion 114 of the enclosure 100. For example, the second portion 2114 of theAFLOCA-324J-PCT cover 2102 can include a generally planar structure that articulates relative to the first portion 2112.

[0106] The second portion 2114 of the cover 2102 may be held in the closed position by a cover latch 2120. The cover latch 2120 may be disposed between two banks 2122, 2124 of drop cables C2. In an embodiment, the cover latch 2120 extends between the first portion 2112 and the second portion 2114 of the cover 2102. For example, the cover latch 2120 can include handle 2126 rotatably mounted to the first portion 2112. A bail 2128 of the cover latch 2120 may interface between the handle 2126 and a complementary structure 2130 disposed on the second portion 2114 of the cover 2102. The cover latch 2120 can be displaced from an unlocked position to a locked position to draw the first and second portions 2112, 2114 together to the locked position.

[0107] As depicted in FIG.23, a first area 2132 of the enclosure 2100 is accessible with the second portion 2114 of the cover 2102 in the open position. The first area 2132 can correspond to an area of the enclosure 2100 in which drop cables C2 are coupled to adapters 2134 arranged at a demarcation panel 2136. The first area 2132 may share one or more components or attributes similar to the restricted area 134 of the enclosure 100 (see, e.g., FIG.2). However, unlike the restricted area 134, the first area 2132 may be defined entirely, or substantially entirely, by the cover 2102. For instance, the first area 2132 can include inner sidewall defining structure 2138 defined by the first portion 2112 of the cover 2102 and outer sidewall defining structure 2140 defined by the second portion 2112 of the cover 2102, where the inner and outer sidewall defining structure 2138, 2140 together define the first area 2132. In some implementations, the first area 2132 can be further defined (i.e., delimited) by other components of the enclosure 2100, such as by the base 2104; however, the cover 2102, or components coupled directly with the cover 2102, substantially define the first area 2132 such that the first area 2132 moves with the cover 2102.

[0108] The inner sidewall defining structure 2138 may define a pocket that recesses inward from the cover 2102, i.e., a recessed pocket, to define a volume of the first area 2132. The inner sidewall defining structure 2138 can include, for example, a rear wall 2142 and a sidewall 2144 including, e.g., the demarcation panel 2136. The sidewall 2144 can extend from a perimeter of the rear wall 2142. The rear wall 2142AFLOCA-324J-PCT may be separated from a lip 2146 of the first area 2132 by a height of the sidewall 2144. In some implementations, the rear wall 2142 is generally planar. In other implementations, the rear wall 2142 can be non-planar, such as cupped, stepped, multi-faceted, castellated, or the like. The rear wall 2142 may define a uniform, or generally uniform, thickness. The rear wall 2142 (or a best fit plane associated therewith) may be oriented parallel with the X- and Y-axis, e.g., parallel with a major surface 2148 of the cover 2102. Alternatively, the rear wall 2142 may be canted (angularly offset) relative to the Y-axis by an offset angle α (FIG.24) of at least 1°, such as at least 2°, such as at least 3°, such as at least 4°, such as at least 5°, such as at least 10°, such as at least 15°. The canted rear wall 2142 may cant away from the cover 2102 moving towards a top end 2150 of the enclosure 2100. The canted rear wall 2142 provides the first area 2132 with sufficient depth at the demarcation panel 2136 to allow a technician to easily install and remove one of the drop cables C2 from a respective adapter 2134 without wasting space at the bottom end 2152 of the enclosure 2100, thereby allowing greater room for the sealing structure 2154 at the bottom end 2152. FIG.24 illustrates a side view of the cover 2102, depicting the canted rear wall 2142. The incoming optical cable C1(FIG.22) may pass under the canted rear wall 2142 through a cable attachment unit 2196 (FIGS.27 and 28).

[0109] Referring to FIG.25, the rear wall 2142 can define a rhomboidal shape with two acutely-oriented edges 2156, 2158 that taper together towards the demarcation panel 2136. As depicted, the sidewall 2144 can taper inward from an inner surface 2160 of the first portion 2112 of the cover 2102 towards the rear wall 2142. Moreover, the tapering sidewall 2144 can taper from orthogonal edges 2162, 2164 towards the acutely-oriented edges 2156, 2158. The tapering sidewall 2144 can provide the technician with greater area to reach both opposite end adapters 2134 carried by the adapter panel 2136. The resulting first area 2132 (FIG.23) can have a generally tapered cuboid shape with a largest cross-sectional area near the demarcation panel 2136 and a smallest cross-sectional area near the bottom end 2152.

[0110] Referring to FIGS.23 and 25, the adapters 2134 in the demarcation panel 2136 can each define opposite sides disposed on opposite sides of the demarcation panel 2136. For example, the adapters 2134 can each define a first side 2166 disposed on a first side 2168 of the demarcation panel 2136 and a second side 2170 disposed onAFLOCA-324J-PCT a second side 2172 of the demarcation panel 2136. Each of the adapters 2134 is securely (i.e., non-movably) attached to the demarcation panel 2136 and moves with the cover 2102 between the open and closed positions. In an embodiment, each adapter 2134 can include a multi-piece construction including a first piece and a second piece. The first and second pieces are introduced together from opposite sides of the demarcation panel 2136 and brought together. In some instances, the first and second pieces can snap together at the demarcation panel 2136 to securely attach the adapter 2134 to the demarcation panel 2136. Connecting the adapters 2134 to the demarcation panel 2136 may be performed during installation of the enclosure, during initial installation of the enclosure where the individual optical fibers of the incoming optical cable are connected to the second sides 2170 of the adapters 2134, or both.

[0111] The adapters 2134 may be canted relative to Y-axis. For example, referring to FIG.24, the demarcation panel 2136 may be canted (angularly offset) from the Y-axis by an offset angle β of at least 1°, such as at least 2°, such as at least 3°, such as at least 4°, such as at least 5°, such as at least 10°, such as at least 15°. Due to the angular offset of the demarcation panel 2136, the adapters 2134 may also be canted by a same relative amount. The canted adapters 2134 may be easier to access for connecting and disconnecting the cables C2 (FIG.23).

[0112] As depicted in FIG.23, the first and second portions 2112, 2114 of the cover 2102 may be interposed by a seal 2174. The seal 2174 can extend around the lip 2146 of the first portion 2112. In an embodiment, the seal 2174 can fit within a channel defined at least in part by the lip 2146. In an embodiment, the channel may be defined by the lip 2146 and a second lip 2176 spaced apart laterally from the lip 2146. The channel may extend around an entire perimeter of the lip 2146 to sealingly engage the first and second portions 2112, 2114 when the second portion 2114 is in the closed position. The channel may define at least one side of the first area 2132 having a constant width, such as at least two sides of the first area 2132 having a constant width, such as at least three sides of the first area 2132 having a constant width. In an embodiment, a lowermost side 2178 of the channel can define a relatively wider size than the other three sides. In this regard, the lowermost side 2178 can accommodate a sealing block 2180. The sealing block 2180 can have one or more similar attributes as compared to sealing block 206 (FIGS.20 and 21). For example,AFLOCA-324J-PCT the sealing block 2180 can be formed from a gel that readily deforms to take up and accommodate gaps between the drop cables C2and / or the first and second portions 2112, 2114 when second portion 2114 is drawn closed against the first portion 2112.

[0113] Referring to FIGS.29 and 30, the sealing block 2180 includes a body 2182 that defines slits 2184 extending into the body 2182. The slits 2184 can be divided into two sets of slits 2184A, 2184B. Each of the slits 2184 can be canted (angularly offset) relative to the Z-axis by an offset angle σ. Cables C are inserted into the slits 2184 in a direction 2186A, 2186B from an open end 2188 of the slit 2184 towards a closed bottom 2190 of the slit 2184. The cables C may be pushed in the direction 2186A, 2186B until reaching the closed bottom 2190. When the second portion 2114 of the cover 2102 is closed, the sealing block 2180 is compressed in the direction 2192 along the Z-axis. The offset angle σ of the slits 2184 may provide enhanced sealing capability against the cables C in view of the non-parallel compression direction 2192.

[0114] In some implementations, the sealing block 2180 can include a single- piece construction that extends around the entire perimeter of the lip 2146 (FIG.23). In other implementations, the sealing block 2180 can include a multi-piece construction with at least two separate sealing bodies 2182A, 2182B, forming the sealing block 2180. The sealing bodies 2182A, 2182B may be formed from a similar construction technique, a similar material, or both. The sealing bodies 2182A, 2182B can meet at one or more junctions 2194. The junctions 2194 can include multi- segmented surfaces to enhance sealing between the sealing bodies 2182A, 2182B.

[0115] FIG.26 illustrates a view of the enclosure 2100 as seen with the first portion 2112 of the cover 2102 in the open position. The incoming optical cable C1 is routed into an interior 2198 of the enclosure 2100 through the sealing structure 2154. The individual optical fibers 3000 of the incoming optical cable C1 are split out from the cable jacket 3002 and fed into a splice tray 3004. In the depicted embodiment, some of the optical fibers 3000 remain within the jacket 3002 and are routed out of the enclosure 100 through a bypass port 3003.

[0116] In some installations, the optical fibers 3000 and / or the incoming optical cable C1 are routed about a perimeter of the base 2104 prior to feeding into the spliceAFLOCA-324J-PCT tray 3004. The splice trays 3004 may include one fixed (static) module 3004A and one rotatable module 3004B, however other arrangements are contemplated herein.

[0117] The optical fibers 3000 are spliced with secondary optical fibers 3006 within the splice trays 3004. The secondary optical fibers 3006 may be preconnectorized, i.e., include an end having a connector 3008 already coupled therewith. Terminal ends of the optical fibers 3000 may be spliced with non- connectorized ends of the secondary optical fibers 3006. The secondary optical fibers 3006 may be connected to the adapters 2134 using the connectors 3008. In some instances, the secondary optical fibers 3006 may be routed through an organization feature, such as a retaining loop 3010 coupled to the cover 2102.

[0118] Referring again to FIG.23, third optical fibers 3010 associated with drop cables C2are connected to the other sides of the adapters 2134 and routed out of the enclosure 2100 through the sealing block 2180. FIG.23 illustrates all of the adapters 2134 connected with third optical fibers 3010, however, the number of third optical fibers connected at initial installation may be fewer based on the installation being performed.

[0119] The drop cables C2may be retrained against pulling on the adapters 2134 using a tie down bar 3112. The tie down bar may include individual tie-downs for each drop cable location. When a drop cable C2is in position, a wrap, such as a zip tie, can be installed around the drop cable C2 and tightened to the individual tie-down to secure the drop cable C2in position.

[0120] FIG.31 is a flowchart of a method 3100 of configuring optical connections in an optical network in accordance with an example embodiment. The method 3100 may be performed using one or more of the previously described features, such as the enclosure 100, 2100. The method 3100 may be performed on site at a desired installation location where an enclosure is commissioned. All described steps of the method 3100 may be performed after mounting the enclosure at the installation location, such as to a pole associated with a telecommunications network, an exterior wall of a building or façade, a fencepost, or the like. Although FIG.3100 depicts operations performed in a particular order for purposes of illustration and discussion, the method is not limited to any particular order or arrangement. One skilled in the art, using the disclosure provided herein, will appreciate that various steps of theAFLOCA-324J-PCT method disclosed herein can be omitted, rearranged, combined, and / or adapted in various ways without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0121] The method 3100 includes inserting 3102 a first optical fiber through a sealing structure of an enclosure into a first area of the enclosure. Inserting 3102 the first optical fiber can include inserting an optical cable through the sealing structure without breaking apart the optical cable to reveal the individual optical fibers carried therein. In some implementations, the sealing structure includes a split structure that permits the optical cable to be installed laterally without feeding the cable longitudinally through an opening. Instead, the split structure is opened to reveal a passthrough into which the cable is installed. The split structure is then closed around the cable.

[0122] The optical cable can be split out from the jacket into two or more individual optical fibers within the enclosure. In some instances, some of the optical fibers can remain disposed within the cable jacket and routed back out of the enclosure, e.g., through another portion of the sealing structure. The optical fibers that are removed from the cable jacket may be cut to form terminal ends inside the enclosure.

[0123] The optical cable can be secured to the enclosure within the first area using a cable attachment unit. The cable attachment unit may be fixedly mounted to an inner sidewall of the base and include a reenterable, split design. Once tightened, the cable attachment unit mitigates pullout caused when force is applied to the optical cable from outside the enclosure.

[0124] The method 3100 further includes sealing 3104 the first optical fiber using the sealing structure. In an embodiment, sealing 3104 includes sealing an outer surface of the cable jacket. Sealing 3104 may be performed at the sealing structure, for example, by applying pressure to the split structure surrounding the cable. The split structure may be formed from a sealing material, like a gel or rubber, that accommodates gaps around the cable to prevent fluid ingress into the enclosure in the closed state. The split structure may be pressurized to cause the sealing material to flow around the optical cable to accommodate any gaps. By way of example, the sealing structure can define threads adjacent to the split structure. The threads can threadable receive a threadable member. As the threadable member is threaded ontoAFLOCA-324J-PCT the threads, the threadable member moves towards the split structure, pressing into the split structure, and causing the split structure to expand laterally around the cable jacket to accommodate gaps therearound. The threadable member may be tightened by hand until no further tightening is possible or until reaching a prescribed torque or limiting threshold.

[0125] The individual optical fibers from the incoming optical cable are optically coupled 3106 to a first side of an adapter carried by a demarcation panel of the first cover. In some instances, the individual optical fibers may be directly coupled to the adapters in the demarcation panel. In other instances, the individual optical fibers are spliced to tertiary optical fibers including preterminated connectors that are installable at the adapters of the demarcation panel. Where teritary optical fibers are used, splice locations can be stored in one or more rotatable trays disposed in the first area.

[0126] The step 3106 may be repeated for all of the individual fibers entering the enclosure and / or until all adapters at the demarcation panel are occupied each by one of the individual optical fibers.

[0127] Once the individual fibers are coupled to the adapters, directly or indirectly, the first cover can be closed 3108. The first cover can also be locked in the closed position, e.g., using one or more latches.

[0128] The method 3100 further includes opening 3110 a second cover of the enclosure to provide access to a second area of the enclosure. The second area is different from the first area. Access to the first area is restricted even when the second cover is in the open position. In some implementations, the second cover may already be open, or partially open prior to step 3110. For example, the installation technician may begin the method 3100 my opening both the first cover and the second cover, or at least loosening latches associated therewith such that opening 3110 the second cover merely requires rotating the second cover to the open position without further requiring unlocking the second cover to permit such rotation.

[0129] Once the second cover is open, the method 3100 can then include optically coupling 3112 a second optical fiber to a second side of the adapter. The second sides of the adapters can be disposed in the second area and accessible with the second cover in the open position. Once a respective one of the second optical fibers is optically coupled 3112 to the adapter, optical signals may be transmitted from theAFLOCA-324J-PCT associated optical fiber of the incoming optical cable through the second optical fiber to the endpoint, e.g., subscriber, location.

[0130] The method 3100 can further include routing 3114 the second optical fiber from the second side of the adapter through a sealing block carried by the first cover. In many instances, the second optical fiber is a drop cable that is then routed to an individual subscriber location. Once the second optical fiber is routed from the enclosure, the method 3100 can further include closing 3116 the cover.

[0131] In an embodiment, steps 3102 to 3108 are performed during a first period of time. That is, steps 3102 to 3108 may be performed by a first technician while installing the enclosure on site. Steps 3110 to 3116 may be performed at a later period of time. That is, steps 3110 to 3116 may be performed by a second technician some period of time after the installation. In some cases, the later period is a few hours or days after the first period. In other cases, the later period of time is a few weeks, months, or even years after the first period of time. In some instances, the steps 3110 to 3116 may be repeated multiple successive times after the initial installation, such as for example, when subscriber locations are added to a neighborhood over time, the neighborhood being serviced by the enclosure.

[0132] Further aspects of the invention are provided by one or more of the following embodiments:

[0133] Embodiment 1. An enclosure comprising: a base; and a cover rotatably coupled to the base, wherein the cover comprises: a first cover rotatably coupled to the base to enclose a first area defined by a combination of the base and first cover when the first cover is in a closed position, wherein the first cover comprises: a recessed pocket defining a second area; and a demarcation panel formed in a sidewall of the recessed pocket; a second cover movably coupled to the first cover to selectively enclose the second area when the second cover is in a closed position; and a plurality of adapters disposed at the demarcation panel.

[0134] Embodiment 2. The enclosure of embodiment 1, wherein the enclosure is configured to receive a first optical fiber through a sealing structure in the base, wherein the first optical fiber is configured to be spliced to a second optical fiber in the first area, wherein the second optical fiber is configured to be connected to a first side of a first adapter in the first area, and wherein a third optical fiber is configured toAFLOCA-324J-PCT be connected to a second side of the first adapter and extend through the second area to a sealing block carried by the first cover

[0135] Embodiment 3. The enclosure of any one or more of embodiments 1 or 2, wherein the demarcation panel extends from an inner surface of the first cover at a canted angle such that the plurality of adapters are canted relative to the first cover.

[0136] Embodiment 4. The enclosure of any one or more of embodiments 1 to 3, wherein the recess defines a rear wall and a sidewall extending from a perimeter of the rear wall, wherein the rear wall is coupled to the first cover through the sidewall, and wherein the rear wall is canted relative to an inner surface of the first cover from which the sidewall extends from.

[0137] Embodiment 5. The enclosure of any one or more of embodiments 1 to 4, wherein the first cover is rotatably coupled to the base about a first rotation axis, wherein the second cover is rotatably coupled to the first cover about a second rotation axis, and wherein the first and second rotation axis are oriented perpendicular to one another.

[0138] Embodiment 6. The enclosure of any one or more of embodiments 1 to 5, wherein access to the first area is prevented when the first cover is closed regardless of whether the second cover is open or closed.

[0139] Embodiment 7. The enclosure of any one or more of embodiments 1 to 6, wherein the sealing block comprises a plurality of slits each configured to receive the third optical fiber, and wherein the slits are canted relative to an orthogonal axis of the enclosure.

[0140] Embodiment 8. The enclosure of any one or more of embodiments 1 to 7, wherein the base comprises a rear wall and a sidewall extending from the rear wall, and wherein the enclosure further comprises a sealing structure disposed in an opening in the sidewall of the base, wherein the sealing structure is configured to receive the first optical fiber from an exterior environment into the enclosure.

[0141] Embodiment 9. A method of configuring optical connections in an optical network, the method comprising: during a first period of time: inserting a first optical fiber through a sealing structure of an enclosure into a first area of the enclosure, wherein the sealing structure is disposed in a sidewall of a base of the enclosure; sealing the first optical fiber using the sealing structure; optically coupling the firstAFLOCA-324J-PCT optical fiber to a first side of an adapter carried by a demarcation panel of the first cover, wherein the first side of the adapter is disposed in the first area; and closing the first cover; and during a second period of time after completion of the first period of time: opening a second cover of the enclosure to provide access to a second area different from the first area, the second area housing a second side of the adapter; optically coupling a second optical fiber to the second side of the adapter; routing the second optical fiber from the second side of the adapter through a sealing block carried by the first cover; and closing the second cover.

[0142] Embodiment 10. The method of embodiment 9, wherein optically coupling the first optical fiber to the first side of the adapter comprises optically coupling the first optical fiber to a first end of a third optical fiber in the first area of the enclosure and optically coupling a second end of the third optical fiber to the first side of the adapter.

[0143] Embodiment 11. The method of embodiment 10, wherein optically coupling the first optical fiber to the third optical fiber comprises splicing the first optical fiber to a the third optical fiber; and inserting a spliced connection between the first and third optical fibers into a splice tray disposed in the first area, wherein the second end of the third optical fiber is preconnectorized, and wherein optically coupling the second end of the third optical fiber to the first side of the adapter comprises installing the preconnectorized third optical fiber to the adapter.

[0144] Embodiment 12. The method of any one or more of embodiments 9 to 11, wherein the first cover remains in a closed position during the entire second period of time.

[0145] Embodiment 13. The method of any one or more of embodiments 9 to 12, wherein the second area is entirely delimited by surfaces of the first cover and the second cover, and wherein the first area is unreachable when the first cover is in the closed position.

[0146] Embodiment 14. The method of any one or more of embodiments 9 to 13, wherein closing the second cover comprises actuating latches of the enclosure to a locked position, and wherein actuating the latches is performed with a portion of the first cover disposed between the base and the second cover such that the latches draw together the first cover, the second cover, and the base.AFLOCA-324J-PCT

[0147] Embodiment 15. A cover for an enclosure, the cover comprising: a first cover configured to be rotatably coupled to a base to enclose a first area defined by a combination of the base and first cover when the first cover is in a closed position relative to the base, wherein the first cover defines a second area physically isolated from the first area, and wherein the first and second areas are separated by a demarcation panel comprising a plurality of adapters; and a second cover movably coupled directly to the first cover to selectively enclose the second area when the second cover is in a closed position.

[0148] Embodiment 16. The cover of embodiment 15, wherein the demarcation panel extends from an inner surface of the first cover at a canted angle such that the plurality of adapters are canted relative to the first cover.

[0149] Embodiment 17. The cover of any one or more of embodiments 15 or 16, wherein the recess defines a rear wall and a sidewall extending from a perimeter of the rear wall, wherein the rear wall is coupled to the first cover through the sidewall, and wherein the rear wall is canted relative to an inner surface of the first cover from which the sidewall extends from.

[0150] Embodiment 18. The cover of any one or more of embodiments 15 to 17, wherein the first cover is configured to be rotatably coupled to the base about a first rotation axis, wherein the second cover is rotatably coupled to the first cover about a second rotation axis, and wherein the first and second rotation axis are oriented perpendicular to one another.

[0151] Embodiment 19. The cover of any one or more of embodiments 15 to 18, wherein the enclosure is configured to receive a first optical fiber through a sealing structure in the base, wherein the first optical fiber is configured to be spliced to a second optical fiber in the first area, wherein the second optical fiber is configured to be connected to a first side of a first adapter in the first area, and wherein a third optical fiber is configured to be connected to a second side of the first adapter and extend through the second area to a sealing block carried by the first cover.

[0152] Embodiment 20. The cover of any one or more of embodiments 15 to 19, wherein the cover comprises a plurality of receiving features for interfacing with a latch of the base to draw the cover towards the base when the latch is closed, wherein the plurality of receiving features comprises a first receiving feature on the first coverAFLOCA-324J-PCT and a second receiving feature on the second cover, and wherein the first and second receiving features are identical.

[0153] This written 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 other examples 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 language of the claims.

Claims

AFLOCA-324J-PCT WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. An enclosure comprising: a base; and a cover rotatably coupled to the base, wherein the cover comprises: a first cover rotatably coupled to the base to enclose a first area defined by a combination of the base and first cover when the first cover is in a closed position, wherein the first cover comprises: a recessed pocket defining a second area; and a demarcation panel formed in a sidewall of the recessed pocket; a second cover movably coupled to the first cover to selectively enclose the second area when the second cover is in a closed position; and a plurality of adapters disposed at the demarcation panel.

2. The enclosure of claim 1, wherein the enclosure is configured to receive a first optical fiber through a sealing structure in the base, wherein the first optical fiber is configured to be spliced to a second optical fiber in the first area, wherein the second optical fiber is configured to be connected to a first side of a first adapter in the first area, and wherein a third optical fiber is configured to be connected to a second side of the first adapter and extend through the second area to a sealing block carried by the first cover 3. The enclosure of claim 1, wherein the demarcation panel extends from an inner surface of the first cover at a canted angle such that the plurality of adapters are canted relative to the first cover.

4. The enclosure of claim 1, wherein the recess defines a rear wall and a sidewall extending from a perimeter of the rear wall, wherein the rear wall is coupled to the first cover through the sidewall, and wherein the rear wall is canted relative to an inner surface of the first cover from which the sidewall extends from.AFLOCA-324J-PCT 5. The enclosure of claim 1, wherein the first cover is rotatably coupled to the base about a first rotation axis, wherein the second cover is rotatably coupled to the first cover about a second rotation axis, and wherein the first and second rotation axis are oriented perpendicular to one another.

6. The enclosure of claim 1, wherein access to the first area is prevented when the first cover is closed regardless of whether the second cover is open or closed.

7. The enclosure of claim 1, wherein the sealing block comprises a plurality of slits each configured to receive the third optical fiber, and wherein the slits are canted relative to an orthogonal axis of the enclosure.

8. The enclosure of claim 1, wherein the base comprises a rear wall and a sidewall extending from the rear wall, and wherein the enclosure further comprises a sealing structure disposed in an opening in the sidewall of the base, wherein the sealing structure is configured to receive the first optical fiber from an exterior environment into the enclosure.

9. A method of configuring optical connections in an optical network, the method comprising: during a first period of time: inserting a first optical fiber through a sealing structure of an enclosure into a first area of the enclosure, wherein the sealing structure is disposed in a sidewall of a base of the enclosure; sealing the first optical fiber using the sealing structure; optically coupling the first optical fiber to a first side of an adapter carried by a demarcation panel of the first cover, wherein the first side of the adapter is disposed in the first area; and closing the first cover; and during a second period of time after completion of the first period of time: opening a second cover of the enclosure to provide access to a second area different from the first area, the second area housing a second side of the adapter;AFLOCA-324J-PCT optically coupling a second optical fiber to the second side of the adapter; routing the second optical fiber from the second side of the adapter through a sealing block carried by the first cover; and closing the second cover.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein optically coupling the first optical fiber to the first side of the adapter comprises optically coupling the first optical fiber to a first end of a third optical fiber in the first area of the enclosure and optically coupling a second end of the third optical fiber to the first side of the adapter.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein optically coupling the first optical fiber to the third optical fiber comprises splicing the first optical fiber to a the third optical fiber; and inserting a spliced connection between the first and third optical fibers into a splice tray disposed in the first area, wherein the second end of the third optical fiber is preconnectorized, and wherein optically coupling the second end of the third optical fiber to the first side of the adapter comprises installing the preconnectorized third optical fiber to the adapter.

12. The method of claim 9, wherein the first cover remains in a closed position during the entire second period of time.

13. The method of claim 9, wherein the second area is entirely delimited by surfaces of the first cover and the second cover, and wherein the first area is unreachable when the first cover is in the closed position.

14. The method of claim 9, wherein closing the second cover comprises actuating latches of the enclosure to a locked position, and wherein actuating the latches is performed with a portion of the first cover disposed between the base and the second cover such that the latches draw together the first cover, the second cover, and the base.

15. A cover for an enclosure, the cover comprising:AFLOCA-324J-PCT a first cover configured to be rotatably coupled to a base to enclose a first area defined by a combination of the base and first cover when the first cover is in a closed position relative to the base, wherein the first cover defines a second area physically isolated from the first area, and wherein the first and second areas are separated by a demarcation panel comprising a plurality of adapters; and a second cover movably coupled directly to the first cover to selectively enclose the second area when the second cover is in a closed position.

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