Communication system component mounting device with component mounting portions structurally configured to change orientation relative to each other to provide multiple device configurations

Abstract

A communication system component mounting device having one or more movable component mounting portions configured to change orientation relative to each other to provide multiple device configurations. The device may include a component mounting portion structurally configured to support a plurality of communication system components and structurally configured to be arranged in a plurality of configurations and an orientation retaining portion structurally configured to maintain the component mounting portion in a selected one of the plurality of configurations. The orientation retaining portion may include a cable management portion for routing communication cable to and from the plurality of communication system components.

Description

Attorney Docket No. 0404.0040-PCTCOMMUNICATION SYSTEM COMPONENT MOUNTING DEVICE WITH COMPONENT MOUNTING PORTIONS STRUCTURALLY CONFIGURED TO CHANGE ORIENTATION RELATIVE TO EACH OTHER TO PROVIDE MULTIPLE DEVICE CONFIGURATIONSCROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 689,333 filed August 30, 2024, which is currently pending, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to a communication system component mounting device, and more particularly to a communication system component mounting device having multiple component mounting portions structurally configured to change orientation relative to each other to provide multiple device configurations.BACKGROUND

[0003] Communication systems and networks (e.g., fiber optic networks) use enclosures to house system components (e.g., equipment and cable). System components within the enclosures are configured to handle different connectivity solutions (e.g., looped cable storage, splicing, and patching). Current enclosure designs have equipment or fiber connectivity mounted to a surface (e.g., inside the enclosure on a static rear wall). Due to space constraints and the continuously expanding need for greater capacity, manufacturers usually offer different configurations of the same product (e.g., enclosures, system components), which have to be purchased separately, in order to allow clients to optimize the available space depending on their needs.

[0004] There is a need for a communication system component mounting device that has multiple configurations. Accordingly, it may be desirable to provide a communication system component mounting device having multiple component mounting portions that are structurally configured to change orientation relative to each other so as to provideAttorney Docket No. 0404.0040-PCT multiple device configurations to optimize installation (e.g., permit optimization of space available for the mounting device).SUMMARY

[0005] The present disclosure provides a communication system component mounting device having one or more movable component mounting portions structurally configured to change orientation relative to each other to provide multiple device configurations.

[0006] In some embodiments, the communication system component mounting device may include a component mounting portion structurally configured to support a plurality of communication system components and structurally configured to be arranged in a plurality of configurations. In some embodiments, the communication system component mounting device may include an orientation retaining portion structurally configured to maintain the component mounting portion in a selected one of the plurality of configurations.

[0007] In some embodiments, the orientation retaining portion may include a cable management portion for routing communication cable to and from the plurality of communication system components.

[0008] In some embodiments, the component mounting portion may be structurally configured to provide multiple configurations for mounting communication system components that permit optimization of space available for the component mounting portion.

[0009] In some embodiments, the component mounting portion may include a first component mounting portion structurally configured to have one or more first communication system components of the plurality of communication system components mounted thereto.

[0010] In some embodiments, the component mounting portion may include a second component mounting portion attached to the first component mounting portion and structurally configured to have one or more second communication system components of the plurality of communication system components mounted thereto.Attorney Docket No. 0404.0040-PCT

[0011] In some embodiments, the component mounting portion may include a third component mounting portion attached to the first component mounting portion and structurally configured to have one or more third communication system components of the plurality of communication system components mounted thereto.

[0012] In some embodiments, the orientation retaining portion may be structurally configured to maintain an orientation of the second component mounting portion relative to the first component mounting portion and the third component mounting portion relative to the first component mounting portion.

[0013] In some embodiments, the second component mounting portion may be structurally configured to pivot relative to the first component mounting portion between a first position and a second position and the third component mounting portion is structurally configured to pivot relative to the first component mounting portion between a third position and a fourth position.

[0014] In some embodiments, when the second component mounting portion is in the first position and the third component mounting portion is in the third position, the component mounting portion may be in a planar configuration.

[0015] In some embodiments, when the second component mounting portion is in the second position and the third component mounting portion is in the fourth position, the component mounting portion may be in a U-shaped configuration.

[0016] In some embodiments, when the second component mounting portion is in the first position and the third component mounting portion is in the fourth position, the component mounting portion may be in a L-shaped configuration.

[0017] In some embodiments, the orientation retaining portion may be structurally configured to engage a first front face portion of the first component mounting portion and a second front face portion of the second component mounting portion to maintain an orientation of the second component mounting portion relative to the first component mounting portion.

[0018] In some embodiments, the orientation retaining portion may be structurally configured to engage the first front face portion of the first component mounting portion and a third front face portion of the third component mounting portion to maintain anAttorney Docket No. 0404.0040-PCT orientation of the third component mounting portion relative to the first component mounting portion.

[0019] In some embodiments, a communication system component mounting device may have one or more movable component mounting portions configured to change orientation relative to each other to provide multiple device configurations. In some embodiments, the communication system component mounting device may include a component mounting portion structurally configured to support a plurality of communication system components and structurally configured to be arranged in a plurality of configurations and an orientation retaining portion structurally configured to maintain the component mounting portion in a selected one of the plurality of configurations.

[0020] In some embodiments, the component mounting portion may include an intermediate component mounting portion, a first lateral component mounting portion, and a second lateral component mounting portion.

[0021] In some embodiments, the first lateral component mounting portion may be attached to the intermediate component mounting portion and structurally configured to pivot relative to the intermediate component mounting portion.

[0022] In some embodiments, the second lateral component mounting portion may be attached to the intermediate component mounting portion opposite the first lateral component mounting portion to pivot relative to the intermediate component mounting portion.

[0023] In some embodiments, the orientation retaining portion may be structurally configured to maintain an orientation of the first lateral component mounting portion relative to the intermediate component mounting portion and the second lateral component mounting portion relative to the intermediate component mounting portion

[0024] In some embodiments, the orientation retaining portion may include a cable management portion for routing communication cable to and from the plurality of communication system components.

[0025] In some embodiments, the first and second lateral component mounting portions may be structurally configured to pivot relative to the intermediate component mounting portion so as to provide multiple configurations for mounting communicationAttorney Docket No. 0404.0040-PCT system components that permit optimization of space available for the component mounting portion.

[0026] In some embodiments, the plurality of configurations may include a planar configuration, a U-shaped configuration, and an L-shaped configuration.

[0027] In some embodiments, the orientation retaining portion may be structurally configured to engage a first front face portion of the intermediate component mounting portion and a second front face portion of the first lateral component mounting portion to maintain an orientation of the first lateral component mounting portion relative to the intermediate component mounting portion.

[0028] In some embodiments, the intermediate component mounting portion may have an attachment portion for attaching the component mounting portion to a mounting surface.

[0029] In some embodiments, a communication system component mounting device may have one or more movable component mounting portions configured to change orientation relative to each other to provide multiple device configurations.

[0030] In some embodiments, the communication system component mounting device may include a component mounting portion structurally configured to support a plurality of communication system components.

[0031] In some embodiments, the component mounting portion may have a first component mounting portion, a second component mounting portion attached to the first component mounting portion, and a third component mounting portion attached to the first component mounting portion. In some embodiments, the first, the second, and the third component mounting portions may be structurally configured to be arranged in a plurality of configurations relative to each other.

[0032] In some embodiments, the communication system component mounting device may include an orientation retaining portion structurally configured to maintain the first, the second, and the third component mounting portions in a selected one of the plurality of configurations.

[0033] In some embodiments, the second and the third component mounting portions may be structurally configured to move relative to the first component mounting portionAttorney Docket No. 0404.0040-PCT so as to provide multiple configurations for mounting communication system components that permit optimization of space available for the component mounting portion.

[0034] In some embodiments, the second component mounting portion may be structurally configured to pivot relative to the first component mounting portion between a first position and a second position and the third component mounting portion is structurally configured to pivot relative to the first component mounting portion between a third position and a fourth position.

[0035] In some embodiments, when the second component mounting portion is in the first position and the third component mounting portion is in the third position, the component mounting portion may be in a planar configuration.

[0036] In some embodiments, when the second component mounting portion is in the second position and the third component mounting portion is in the fourth position, the component mounting portion may be in a U-shaped configuration.

[0037] In some embodiments, when the second component mounting portion is in the first position and the third component mounting portion is in the fourth position, the component mounting portion may be in a L-shaped configuration.

[0038] In some embodiments, the orientation retaining portion may be structurally configured to engage a first front face portion of the first component mounting portion and a second front face portion of the second component mounting portion to maintain an orientation of the second component mounting portion relative to the first component mounting portion.

[0039] In some embodiments, the orientation retaining portion may include a cable management portion for routing communication cable to and from the plurality of communication system components.

[0040] Various aspects of the system, as well as other embodiments, objects, features and advantages of this disclosure, will be apparent from the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments thereof, which is to be read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.Attorney Docket No. 0404.0040-PCTBRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0041] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the present teachings and together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present teachings.

[0042] FIG. 1 is perspective view of an example communication system component mounting device in accordance with various aspects of the disclosure illustrated in a first configuration.

[0043] FIG. 2 is a front view of the device of FIG. 1 in the first configuration.

[0044] FIG. 3 is a top view of the device of FIG. 1 in the first configuration.

[0045] FIG. 4 is perspective view of the device of FIG. 1 illustrated in a second configuration.

[0046] FIG. 5 is a front view of the device of FIG. 1 in the second configuration.

[0047] FIG. 6 is a top view of the device of FIG. 1 in the second configuration.

[0048] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an example orientation retaining portion of the device of FIG. 1 for use with the first configuration.

[0049] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an example orientation retaining portion of the device of FIG. 1 for use with the second configuration.

[0050] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an example cable routing portion of the device of FIG. 1.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0051] Reference will now be made in detail to presently preferred embodiments and methods of the present disclosure, which constitute the best modes of practicing the present disclosure presently known to the inventors. The figures are not necessarily to scale. It is to be understood, however, that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the present disclosure that may be embodied in various and alternative forms. Therefore, specific details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a representative basis for any aspect of the present disclosure and / or as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the present disclosure.Attorney Docket No. 0404.0040-PCT

[0052] It is also to be understood that this present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments and methods described below, as specific components and / or conditions may, of course, vary. Furthermore, the terminology used herein is used only for the purpose of describing particular embodiments of the present disclosure and is not intended to be limiting in any way.

[0053] It must also be noted that, as used in the specification and the appended claims, the singular form “a,” “an,” and “the” comprise plural referents unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. For example, reference to a component in the singular is intended to comprise a plurality of components.

[0054] Embodiments of the disclosure provide a communication system component mounting device 10 for providing connectivity solutions (e.g., splicing, cable management, etc.) for communication cable, such as fiber optic cable, copper coaxial cable, etc. The device 10 may be structurally configured to have multiple configurations for mounting communication system components (e.g., equipment, cable, etc.).

[0055] Referring to FIGS. 1-3, in some embodiments, the device 10 may include a component mounting portion 12 structurally configured to have multiple configurations for support a plurality of communication system components 14 and an orientation retaining portion 16 structurally configured to maintain the component mounting portion 12 in a selected one of the plurality of configurations. The component mounting portion 12 may be structurally configured to support a variety of system components designed to provide a variety of functions, such as splicing, patching, cable routing, etc. In some embodiments, the plurality of communication system components 14 may include a plurality of splice trays. In some implementations, the component mounting portion 12 may include a support portion 18 structurally configured to support or attach the orientation retaining portion 16 on the component mounting portion 12.

[0056] The component mounting portion 12 may be configured in a variety of ways. In some embodiments, the component mounting portion 12 may include an intermediate component mounting portion 20, a first lateral component mounting portion 22 structurally configured to be attached to the intermediate component mounting portion 20, and a second lateral component mounting portion 24 structurally configured to be attached toAttorney Docket No. 0404.0040-PCT the intermediate component mounting portion 20 opposite the first lateral component mounting portion 22.

[0057] The intermediate component mounting portion 20 may be configured in a variety of ways, including shape and size. In some embodiments, the intermediate component mounting portion 20 may be formed as a rectangular panel. In other embodiments, however, the intermediate component mounting portion 20 may be shaped other than a panel and / or other than rectangular. In some embodiments, the intermediate component mounting portion 20 may have a top end portion 26, a bottom end portion 28 opposite the top end portion 26, a first lateral portion 30 extending between the bottom end portion 28 and the top end portion 26, a second lateral portion 32 opposite the first lateral portion 30 and extending between the bottom end portion 28 and the top end portion 26, a front face portion 34 extending between the first lateral portion 30 and the second lateral portion 32, and a rear face portion 36 opposite the front face portion 34 and extending between the first lateral portion 30 and the second lateral portion 32.

[0058] In some embodiments, the intermediate component mounting portion 20 may include an attachment portion 38 structural configured for attaching the communication system component mounting device 10 to a mounting surface 40 (e.g., a cabinet wall or a wall of a building) (FIG. 6). The attachment portion 38 may be configured in a variety of ways. For example, in some embodiments, the attachment portion 38 may include one or more fastener receiving portions (e.g., openings, such as holes or slots) (not shown) extending through the intermediate component mounting portion 20 and structurally configured to receive one or more fasteners for fastening the intermediate component mounting portion 20 to the mounting surface 40.

[0059] In some embodiments, the intermediate component mounting portion 20 may include an intermediate component support portion 42 structurally configured to support the one or more of the plurality of communication system components 14 on the intermediate component mounting portion 20. The intermediate component support portion 42 may be configured in a variety of ways. Any configuration suitable for supporting one or more communication system components 14 may be used. In some implementations, the intermediate component support portion 42 may include one orAttorney Docket No. 0404.0040-PCT more apertures 44, each structurally configured to receive a corresponding projecting portion 46 (FIG. 6) of a corresponding communication system component 14.

[0060] In some implementations, the intermediate component support portion 42 may be structurally configured to position the one or more communication system components 14 at, or adjacent, a longitudinal midline A1 (FIG. 2) of the intermediate component mounting portion 20. For example, in some implementations, the intermediate component support portion 42 may be structurally configured to mount the communication system components 14 in a vertical column along, or adjacent, the longitudinal midline A1. In other embodiments, however, the intermediate component support portion 42 may be structurally configured to position the one or more communication system components 14 offset from the longitudinal midline A1 of the intermediate component support portion 42 4 (e.g., an asymmetric arrangement with the cable management portions and cable routing portions).

[0061] In some implementations, the support portion 18 may include one or more intermediate support portions 48 structurally configured to support the orientation retaining portion 16 on the intermediate component mounting portion 20. The intermediate support portions 48 may be configured in a variety of ways. Any configuration that can support the orientation retaining portion 16 on the intermediate component mounting portion 20 may be used. In some embodiments, the intermediate support portion 48 may include projecting portions 50 (e.g. strip of material, loop, etc.) that form pockets or passages 52 (FIG. 6) configured to receive a corresponding structure on the orientation retaining portion 16 to support the orientation retaining portion 16.

[0062] The first lateral component mounting portion 22 may be configured in a variety of ways, including shape and size. In some embodiments, the first lateral component mounting portion 22 may be the same or similar to the intermediate component mounting portion 20. Thus, the description of the intermediate components mounting portion 20 may apply equally to the first lateral component mounting portion 22. In some embodiments, the first lateral component mounting portion 22 may be formed as a rectangular panel. In other embodiments, however, the first lateral component mounting portion 22 may be shaped other than a panel and / or other than rectangular.Attorney Docket No. 0404.0040-PCT

[0063] In some embodiments, the first lateral component mounting portion 22 may have a top end portion 56, a bottom end portion 58 opposite the top end portion 56, a first lateral portion 60 extending between the bottom end portion 68 and the top end portion 56, a second lateral portion 62 opposite the first lateral portion 60 and extending between the bottom end portion 58 and the top end portion 56, a front face portion 64 extending between the first lateral portion 60 and the second lateral portion 62, and a rear face portion 66 opposite the front face portion 64 and extending between the first lateral portion 60 and the second lateral portion 62.

[0064] In some embodiments, the first lateral component mounting portion 22 may include a first lateral component support portion 72 structurally configured to support the one or more of the plurality of communication system components 14 on the first lateral component mounting portion 22. The first lateral component support portion 72 may be configured in a variety of ways. Any configuration suitable for supporting one or more communication system components 14 may be used. In some implementations, the first lateral component support portion 72 may include one or more apertures 44, each structurally configured to receive a corresponding projecting portion 46 (FIG. 6) of a corresponding communication system component 14.

[0065] In some implementations, the first lateral component support portion 72 may be structurally configured to position the one or more communication system components 14 at, or adjacent, a longitudinal midline A2 (FIG. 2) of the first lateral component mounting portion 22. For example, in some implementations, the first lateral component support portion 72 may be structurally configured to mount the communication system components 14 in a vertical column along, or adjacent, the longitudinal midline A2 of the first lateral component mounting portion 22. In other embodiments, however, the first lateral component support portion 72 may be structurally configured to position the one or more communication system components 14 offset from the longitudinal midline A2 (FIG. 2) of the first lateral component mounting portion 22 (e.g., an asymmetric arrangement with the cable management portions and cable routing portions).

[0066] In some implementations, the support portion 18 may include one or more first lateral support portions 78 structurally configured to support the orientation retaining portion 16 on the first lateral component mounting portion 22. The first lateral supportAttorney Docket No. 0404.0040-PCT portions 78 may be configured in a variety of ways. Any configuration that can support the orientation retaining portion 16 on the first lateral component mounting portion 22 may be used. In some embodiments, the first lateral support portion 78 may include projecting portions 80 (e.g. strip of material, loop, etc.) that form pockets or passages 82 (FIG. 6) configured to receive a corresponding structure on the orientation retaining portion 16 to support the orientation retaining portion 16.

[0067] The second lateral component mounting portion 24 may be configured in a variety of ways, including shape and size. In some embodiments, the second lateral component mounting portion 24 may be the same or similar to the intermediate component mounting portion 20. Thus, the description of the intermediate component mounting portion 20 may apply equally to the second lateral component mounting portion 24. In some embodiments, the second lateral component mounting portion 24 may be formed as a rectangular panel. In other embodiments, however, the second lateral component mounting portion 24 may be shaped other than a panel and / or other than rectangular.

[0068] In some embodiments, the second lateral component mounting portion 24 may have a top end portion 86, a bottom end portion 88 opposite the top end portion 86, a first lateral portion 90 extending between the bottom end portion 88 and the top end portion 86, a second lateral portion 92 opposite the first lateral portion 90 and extending between the bottom end portion 88 and the top end portion 86, a front face portion 94 extending between the first lateral portion 90 and the second lateral portion 92, and a rear face portion 96 opposite the front face portion 94 and extending between the first lateral portion 90 and the second lateral portion 92.

[0069] In some embodiments, the second lateral component mounting portion 24 may include a second lateral component support portion 102 structurally configured to support the one or more of the plurality of communication system components 14 on the second lateral component mounting portion 24. The second lateral component support portion 102 may be configured in a variety of ways. Any configuration suitable for supporting one or more communication system components 14 may be used. In some implementations, the second lateral component support portion 102 may include one or more apertures 44,Attorney Docket No. 0404.0040-PCT each structurally configured to receive a corresponding projecting portion 46 (FIG. 6) of a corresponding communication system component 14.

[0070] In some implementations, the second lateral component support portion 102 may be structurally configured to position the one or more communication system components 14 at, or adjacent, a longitudinal midline A3 (FIG. 2) of the second lateral component mounting portion 24. For example, in some implementations, the second lateral component support portion 102 may be structurally configured to mount the communication system components 14 in a vertical column along, or adjacent, the longitudinal midline A3 of the second lateral component mounting portion 24. In other embodiments, however, the second lateral component support portion 102 may be structurally configured to position the one or more communication system components 14 offset from the longitudinal midline A3 (FIG. 2) of the second lateral component mounting portion 24 (e.g., an asymmetric arrangement with the cable management portions and cable routing portions).

[0071] In some implementations, the support portion 18 may include one or more second lateral support portions 108 structurally configured to support the orientation retaining portion 16 on the second lateral component mounting portion 24. The second lateral support portions 108 may be configured in a variety of ways. Any configuration that can support the orientation retaining portion 16 on the second lateral component mounting portion 24 may be used. In some embodiments, the second lateral support portion 108 may include projecting portions 110 (e.g. strip of material, loop, etc.) that form pockets or passages 112 (FIG. 6) configured to receive a corresponding structure on the orientation retaining portion 16 to support the orientation retaining portion 16.

[0072] In some embodiments, the first lateral component mounting portion 22 may be structurally configured to change orientation relative to the intermediate component mounting portion 20 to change the configuration of the communication system component mounting device 10. For example, the first lateral component mounting portion 22 may be structurally configured to move relative to the intermediate component mounting portion 20 between a first position and a second position. Likewise, in some embodiments, the second lateral component mounting portion 24 may be structurally configured to change orientation relative to the intermediate component mounting portionAttorney Docket No. 0404.0040-PCT20 to change the configuration of the communication system component mounting device 10. For example, the second lateral component mounting portion 24 may be structurally configured to move relative to the intermediate component mounting portion 20 between a third position and a fourth position.

[0073] In some embodiments, the first lateral component mounting portion 22 and / or the second lateral component mounting portion 24 may be attached to the intermediate component mounting portion 20 by a pivot joint portion 113. The pivot joint portion 113 may be configured in a variety of ways, such as, for example, one or more hinge joints or living hinges. In some embodiments, the pivot joint portion 113 may include one or more first pivot joint portions 114 structurally configured to allow the first lateral component mounting portion 22 to pivot relative to the intermediate component mounting portion 20. In some embodiments, the pivot joint portion 113 may include one or more second pivot joint portions 116 structurally configured to allow the second lateral component mounting portion 24 to pivot relative to the intermediate component mounting portion 20.

[0074] In some embodiments, the one or more first pivot joint portions 114 may be structurally configured to allow the first lateral component mounting portion 22 to pivot relative to the intermediate component mounting portion 20 approximately 360 degrees about a first pivot axis PA1 (i.e. , where an angle a1 between the front face portion 64 of the first lateral component mounting portion 22 and the front face portion 34 of the intermediate component mounting portion 20 may be in range of 0 degrees to 360 degrees). In some embodiments, the one or more second pivot joint portions 116 may be structurally configured to allow the second lateral component mounting portion 24 to pivot relative to the intermediate portion approximately 360 degrees about a second pivot axis PA2 (i.e., where an angle a2 between the front face portion 94 of the second lateral component mounting portion 24 and the front face portion 34 of the intermediate component mounting portion 20 may be in range of 0 degrees to 360 degrees). In other embodiments, the first and / or second pivot joint portions 114, 116 may be structurally configured to pivot less than 360 degrees.

[0075] In some embodiments, the communication system component mounting device 10 may be structurally configured to be arranged in a planar configuration, as shown in FIGS. 1 -3. In the planar configuration, the front face portion 64 of the first lateralAttorney Docket No. 0404.0040-PCT component mounting portion 22, in the first position, may be parallel, e.g., coplanar, with the front face portion 34 of the intermediate component mounting portion 20. Further in the planar configuration, the front face portion 94 of the second lateral component mounting portion 24, in the third position, may be parallel, e.g., coplanar, with the front face portion 34 of the intermediate component mounting portion 20.

[0076] In some embodiments, the communication system component mounting device 10 may be structurally configured to be arranged in a U-shaped configuration, as shown in FIGS. 4-6. In the U-shaped configuration, the front face portion 64 of the first lateral component mounting portion 22, in the second position, may be at, or near, an angle a1 of 90 degrees with the front face portion 34 of the intermediate component mounting portion 20. Further in the U-shaped configuration, the front face portion 94 of the second lateral component mounting portion 24, in the fourth position, may be at, or near, an angle a2 of 90 degrees with the front face portion 34 of the intermediate component mounting portion 20.

[0077] In some embodiments, the communication system component mounting device 10 may be structurally configured to be arranged in a L-shaped configuration (not shown). In the L-shaped configuration, the first lateral component mounting portion 22 may be in the first position and the second lateral component mounting portion 24 may be in the fourth position or the first lateral component mounting portion 22 may be in the second position and the second lateral component mounting portion 24 may be in the third position.

[0078] The orientation retaining portion 16 may be structurally configured in a variety of ways. Any configuration that may maintain the orientation of the first lateral component mounting portion 22 relative to the intermediate component mounting portion 20 and the second lateral component mounting portion 24 relative to the intermediate component mounting portion 20 may be used. The orientation retaining portion 16 may be structurally configured to engage the support portion 18 to attach on to the component mounting portion 12.

[0079] In some embodiments, the orientation retaining portion 16 may include a planar configuration retaining portion 120 that may be structurally configured to maintain the communication system component mounting device 10 in a planar configuration (e.g.,Attorney Docket No. 0404.0040-PCT maintain the first lateral component mounting portion 22 in the first position and / or the second lateral component mounting portion 24 in the third position). For example, in some embodiments, the planar configuration retaining portion 120 may be structurally configured to obstruct movement of the first lateral component mounting portion 22 relative to the intermediate component mounting portion 20 when the first lateral component mounting portion 22 is in the first position and / or to obstruct movement of the second lateral component mounting portion 24 relative to the intermediate component mounting portion 20 when the second lateral component mounting portion 24 is in the third position.

[0080] Referring to FIG. 7, the planar configuration retaining portion 120 may be structurally configured in a variety of ways. Any configuration that can maintain the first lateral component mounting portion 22 in the first position and / or the second lateral component mounting portion 24 in the third position may be used. In some embodiments, the planar configuration retaining portion 120 may include an engagement portion 122. In some embodiments, the engagement portion 122 may have front portion 124, a rear portion 126 opposite the front portion 124, a top portion 128, a bottom portion 130 opposite the top portion 128, a first side portion 132 extending between the top portion 128 and the bottom portion 130, a second side portion 134 opposite the first side portion 132, and a length L (FIG. 3) between the first and second side portions 132, 134. In some embodiments, the rear portion 126 may include a planar surface. In some embodiments, the engagement portion 122 may be elongated. In some embodiments, the engagement portion 122 may be structurally configured to resist bending (e.g., rigid). In some embodiments, the engagement portion 122 may be structurally configured to span across at least a portion of the intermediate component mounting portion 20 and at least a portion of the first lateral component mounting portion 22 and / or the second lateral component mounting portion 24.

[0081] In some embodiments, the planar configuration retaining portion 120 may include an attachment portion 138 structurally configured to connect to the support portion 18. The attachment portion 138 may be configured in a variety of ways. In some embodiments, the attachment portion 138 may include one or more hanging portions 140 (e.g., L-shaped projection), each of which may be structurally configured to engage aAttorney Docket No. 0404.0040-PCT corresponding intermediate, first lateral, or second lateral support portion 48, 78, 108 and be received in a corresponding pocket or passage 52, 82, 112 such that the planar configuration retaining portion 120 is supported on the device 10.

[0082] In some embodiments, the planar configuration retaining portion 120 may include a cable management portion 142 structurally configured to route communication cable (not shown) to and from the communication system components 14. The cable management portion 142 may be configured in a variety of ways. In some embodiments, the cable management portion 142 may be structurally configured to route communication cable linearly from the top portion 128 and out of the bottom portion 130 or vice versa, linearly from the first side portion 132 out of the second side portion 134 or vice versa, or at an angle from either the top portion or bottom portion and out one of the first or second side portions 132, 134, or vice versa.

[0083] In some embodiments, the cable management portion 142 may include two pairs 144 of spaced-apart, semi-circular bars or tubes 146. Each of the semi-circular bars or tubes 146 may form a passage 148 through which communication cable may be routed. Thus, communication cable may be routed through the passages 148 or may be routed between the spaced-apart bars or tubes 146 of each pair 144.

[0084] In some embodiments, the planar configuration retaining portion 120 may be attached to the intermediate component mounting portion 20 via one or more hanging portions 140 (e.g., two hanging portions), each of which are received in a pocket or passage 52 of an intermediate support portion 48 and may be attached to the first lateral component mounting portion 22 via one or more hanging portions 140 (e.g., two hanging portions), each of which are received in a pocket or passage 82 of the first lateral support portion 78. As shown in FIGS. 1-3, in some embodiments, multiple individual planar configuration orientation retaining portions 120 may be arranged in series to span across the first pivot axis PA1 and engage the front face portion 34 and the front face portion 64 to maintain the first lateral component mounting portion 22 in the first position. Further, in some embodiments, multiple individual planar configuration orientation retaining portions 120 may be arranged in series to span across the second pivot axis PA2 and engage the front face portion 34 and the front face portion 94 to maintain the second lateral component mounting portion 24 in the third position.Attorney Docket No. 0404.0040-PCT

[0085] In some embodiments, the orientation retaining portion 16 may include an angled configuration retaining portion 150 that may be structurally configured to maintain the communication system component mounting device 10 in a U-shaped configuration or L-shaped configuration (e.g., maintain the first lateral component mounting portion 22 in the second position and / or the second lateral component mounting portion 24 in the fourth position). For example, in some embodiments, the angled configuration retaining portion 150 may be structurally configured to obstruct movement of the first lateral component mounting portion 22 relative to the intermediate component mounting portion 20 when the first lateral component mounting portion 22 is in the second position and / or to obstruct movement of the second lateral component mounting portion 24 relative to the intermediate component mounting portion 20 when the second lateral component mounting portion 24 is in the fourth position.

[0086] Referring to FIG. 8, the angled configuration retaining portion 150 may be structurally configured in a variety of ways. Any configuration that can maintain the first lateral component mounting portion 22 in the second position and / or the second lateral component mounting portion 24 in the fourth position may be used. In some embodiments, the angled configuration retaining portion 150 may include an engagement portion 152. In some embodiments, the engagement portion 152 may have front portion 154, a rear portion 156 opposite the front portion 154, a top portion 158, a bottom portion 160 opposite the top portion 158, a first side portion 162 extending between the top portion 158 and the bottom portion 160, a second side portion 164 opposite the first side portion 162, and a length L (FIG. 3) along the rear portion 156 between the first and second side portions 162, 164. In some embodiments, the rear portion 126 may include a pair of planar surfaces at the angle a1 . In the illustrated embodiment, the angle a1 may be 90 degrees. In other embodiments, however, the angled configuration retaining portion 150 may be structurally configured to maintain the first lateral component mounting portion 22 or the second lateral component mounting portion 24 at any suitable angle relative to the intermediate component mounting portion 20.

[0087] In some embodiments, the engagement portion 152 may be structurally configured to resist bending (e.g., rigid). In some embodiments, the engagement portion 152 may be structurally configured to span across at least a portion of the intermediateAttorney Docket No. 0404.0040-PCT component mounting portion 20 and at least a portion of the first lateral component mounting portion 22 and / or the second lateral component mounting portion 24.

[0088] In some embodiments, the angled configuration retaining portion 150 may include an attachment portion 168 structurally configured to connect to the support portion 18. The attachment portion 168 may be configured in a variety of ways. In some embodiments, the attachment portion 168 may include one or more hanging portions 170 (e.g., L-shaped projection), each of which may be structurally configured to engage a corresponding intermediate, first lateral, or second lateral support portion 48, 78, 108 and be received in a corresponding pocket or passage 52, 82, 112 such that the angled configuration retaining portion 150 is supported on the device 10.

[0089] In some embodiments, the angled configuration retaining portion 150 may include a cable management portion 172 structurally configured to route communication cable (not shown) to and from the communication system components 14. The cable management portion 172 may be configured in a variety of ways. In some embodiments, the cable management portion 172 may be structurally configured to route communication cable linearly from the top portion 158 and out of the bottom portion 160 or vice versa or at an angle from either the top portion or bottom portion and out the front portion 154 or vice versa.

[0090] In some embodiments, the cable management portion 172 may two spacedapart, quarter-circular bars or tubes 176. Each of the quarter-circular bars or tubes bars or tubes 176 may form a passage 178 through which communication cable may be routed. Thus, communication cable may be routed through passages 178 or may be routed between the spaced-apart bars or tubes 176.

[0091] In some embodiments, the angled configuration retaining portion 150 may be attached to the intermediate component mounting portion 20 via one or more hanging portions 170 (e.g., two hanging portions), each of which are received in a pocket or passage 52 of an intermediate support portion 48 and may be attached to the first lateral component mounting portion 22 via one or more hanging portions 170 (e.g., two hanging portions), each of which are received in a pocket or passage 82 of the first lateral support portion 78. As shown in FIGS. 4-6, in some embodiments, multiple individual angled configuration retaining portions 150 may be arranged in series to span across the firstAttorney Docket No. 0404.0040-PCT pivot axis PA1 to maintain the first lateral component mounting portion 22 in the second position. Further, in some embodiments, multiple individual planar configuration retaining portions 150 may be arranged in series to span across the second pivot axis PA2 to maintain the second lateral component mounting portion 24 in the fourth position.

[0092] FIG. 9 illustrates an example cable routing portion 200. The cable routing portion 200 may be configured similar to the planar configuration retaining portion 120 except the cable routing portion 200 may not be structurally configured to span across a pivot axis to maintain the communication system component mounting device 10 in specific configuration. The cable routing portion 200, however, may still provide the cable management function of the illustrated planar configuration retaining portion 120.

[0093] Referring to FIG. 9, the cable routing portion 200 may be structurally configured in a variety of ways. In some embodiments, the cable routing portion 200 may include an engagement portion 202. In some embodiments, the cable routing portion 200 may include a front portion 204, a rear portion 206 opposite the front portion 204, a top portion 208, a bottom portion 210 opposite the top portion 208, a first side portion 212 extending between the top portion 208 and the bottom portion 210, a second side portion 214 opposite the first side portion 212, and a length L2 (FIG. 6) between the first and second side portions 212, 214. In some embodiments, the rear portion 206 may include a planar surface.

[0094] In some embodiments, the cable routing portion 200 may include an attachment portion 218 structurally configured to connect to the support portion 18. The attachment portion 218 may be configured in a variety of ways. In some embodiments, the attachment portion 218 may include one or more hanging portions 220 (e.g., L-shaped projection), each of which may be structurally configured to engage a corresponding first lateral or second lateral support portion 78, 108 and be received in a corresponding pocket or passage 82, 112 such that the cable routing portion 200 is supported on the device 10.

[0095] In some embodiments, the cable routing portion 200 may include a cable management portion 222 structurally configured to route communication cable (not shown) to and from the communication system components 14. The cable management portion 222 may be configured in a variety of ways. In some embodiments, the cableAttorney Docket No. 0404.0040-PCT management portion 222 may be structurally configured to route communication cable linearly from the top portion 208 and out of the bottom portion 210 or vice versa, linearly from the first side portion 212 out of the second side portion 214 or vice versa, or at an angle from either the top portion or bottom portion and out one of the first or second side portions 212, 214, or vice versa.

[0096] In some embodiments, the cable management portion 222 may include a pair of spaced-apart, semi-circular bars or tubes 226. Each of the semi-circular bars or tubes 226 may form a passage 228 through which communication cable may be routed. Thus, communication cable may be routed through the passages 228 or may be routed between the spaced-apart bars or tubes 226.

[0097] In some embodiments, the cable routing portion 200 may be attached to the first lateral component mounting portion 22 via one or more hanging portions 220 (e.g., two hanging portions), each of which are received in a pocket or passage 82 of the first lateral support portion 78. As shown in FIGS. 1 -3, in some embodiments, multiple individual cable routing portions 200 may be arranged in series and engage the front face portion 64 of the first lateral component mounting portion 22 to provide cable management for the communication system components 14 supported on the first lateral component mounting portion 22. In some embodiments, multiple individual cable routing portions 200 may be arranged in series and engage the front face portion 94 of the second lateral component mounting portion 24 to provide cable management for the communication system components 14 supported on the second lateral component mounting portion 24.

[0098] While at least one example, non-limiting embodiment has been presented in the foregoing detailed description, it should be appreciated that a vast number of variations exist. It should also be appreciated that the exemplary embodiment or exemplary embodiments are only examples, and are not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the disclosure in any way. Rather, the foregoing detailed description will provide those skilled in the art with a convenient road map for implementing the exemplary embodiment or exemplary embodiments. It should be understood that various changes can be made in the function and arrangement ofAttorney Docket No. 0404.0040-PCT elements without departing from the scope of the disclosure as set forth in the appended claims and the legal equivalents thereof.

Claims

Attorney Docket No. 0404.0040-PCTCLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A communication system component mounting device having a component mounting portion configured to be arranged in multiple device configurations, comprising: a component mounting portion structurally configured to support a plurality of communication system components and structurally configured to be arranged in a plurality of configurations; an orientation retaining portion structurally configured to maintain the component mounting portion in a selected one of the plurality of configurations; wherein the component mounting portion comprises: an intermediate component mounting portion, a first lateral component mounting portion attached to the intermediate component mounting portion and structurally configured to pivot relative to the intermediate component mounting portion; and a second lateral component mounting portion attached to the intermediate component mounting portion opposite the first lateral component mounting portion and structurally configured to pivot relative to the intermediate component mounting portion wherein the orientation retaining portion is structurally configured to maintain an orientation of the first lateral component mounting portion relative to the intermediate component mounting portion and the second lateral component mounting portion relative to the intermediate component mounting portion; wherein the orientation retaining portion includes a cable management portion for routing communication cable to and from the plurality of communication system components; and wherein the first and second lateral component mounting portions are structurally configured to pivot relative to the intermediate component mounting portion so as to provide multiple configurations for mounting communication system components to optimization installation.Attorney Docket No. 0404.0040-PCT2. The communication system component mounting device of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of configurations include a planar configuration, a U-shaped configuration, and an L-shaped configuration.

3. The communication system component mounting device of claim 1 , wherein the orientation retaining portion is structurally configured to engage a first front face portion of the intermediate component mounting portion and a second front face portion of the first lateral component mounting portion to maintain an orientation of the first lateral component mounting portion relative to the intermediate component mounting portion.

4. The communication system component mounting device of any of claims 1 -3, wherein the intermediate component mounting portion has an attachment portion for attaching the component mounting portion to a mounting surface.

5. A communication system component mounting device having a component mounting portion configured to be arranged in multiple device configurations, comprising: a component mounting portion structurally configured to support a plurality of communication system components, the component mounting portion having a first component mounting portion, a second component mounting portion attached to the first component mounting portion, and a third component mounting portion attached to the first component mounting portion, wherein the first, the second, and the third component mounting portions are configured to be arranged in a plurality of configurations relative to each other; and an orientation retaining portion structurally configured to maintain the first, the second, and the third component mounting portions in a selected one of the plurality of configurations; and wherein the second and the third component mounting portions are structurally configured to move relative to the first component mounting portion soAttorney Docket No. 0404.0040-PCT as to provide multiple configurations for mounting communication system components to optimize installation.

6. The communication system component mounting device of claim 5, wherein the second component mounting portion is structurally configured to pivot relative to the first component mounting portion between a first position and a second position and the third component mounting portion is structurally configured to pivot relative to the first component mounting portion between a third position and a fourth position.

7. The communication system component mounting device of claim 6, wherein when the second component mounting portion is in the first position and the third component mounting portion is in the third position, the component mounting portion is in a planar configuration.

8. The communication system component mounting device of claim 6, wherein when the second component mounting portion is in the second position and the third component mounting portion is in the fourth position, the component mounting portion is in a U-shaped configuration.

9. The communication system component mounting device of claim 6, wherein when the second component mounting portion is in the first position and the third component mounting portion is in the fourth position, the component mounting portion is in a L-shaped configuration.

10. The communication system component mounting device of any of claims 5-9, wherein the orientation retaining portion is structurally configured to engage a first front face portion of the first component mounting portion and a second front face portion of the second component mounting portion to maintain an orientation of the second component mounting portion relative to the first component mounting portion.Attorney Docket No. 0404.0040-PCT11. The communication system component mounting device of any of claims 5-9, wherein the orientation retaining portion includes a cable management portion for routing communication cable to and from the plurality of communication system components.

12. A communication system component mounting device having a component mounting portion configured to be arranged in multiple device configurations, comprising: a component mounting portion structurally configured to support a plurality of communication system components and structurally configured to be arranged in a plurality of configurations; an orientation retaining portion structurally configured to maintain the component mounting portion in a selected one of the plurality of configurations; wherein the orientation retaining portion includes a cable management portion for routing communication cable to and from the plurality of communication system components; and wherein the component mounting portion is structurally configured to provide multiple configurations for mounting communication system components to optimize installation.

13. The communication system component mounting device of claim 12, wherein the component mounting portion comprises: a first component mounting portion structurally configured to have one or more first communication system components of the plurality of communication system components mounted thereto, a second component mounting portion attached to the first component mounting portion and structurally configured to have one or more second communication system components of the plurality of communication system components mounted thereto, and a third component mounting portion attached to the first component mounting portion and structurally configured to have one or more thirdAttorney Docket No. 0404.0040-PCT communication system components of the plurality of communication system components mounted thereto.

14. The communication system component mounting device of claim 13, wherein the orientation retaining portion is structurally configured to maintain an orientation of the second component mounting portion relative to the first component mounting portion and the third component mounting portion relative to the first component mounting portion.

15. The communication system component mounting device of any of claims 12-14, wherein the second component mounting portion is structurally configured to pivot relative to the first component mounting portion between a first position and a second position and the third component mounting portion is structurally configured to pivot relative to the first component mounting portion between a third position and a fourth position.

16. The communication system component mounting device of claim 15, wherein when the second component mounting portion is in the first position and the third component mounting portion is in the third position, the component mounting portion is in a planar configuration.

17. The communication system component mounting device of claim 15, wherein when the second component mounting portion is in the second position and the third component mounting portion is in the fourth position, the component mounting portion is in a U-shaped configuration.

18. The communication system component mounting device of claim 15, wherein when the second component mounting portion is in the first position and the third component mounting portion is in the fourth position, the component mounting portion is in a L-shaped configuration.Attorney Docket No. 0404.0040-PCT19. The communication system component mounting device of claim 13, wherein the orientation retaining portion is structurally configured to engage a first front face portion of the first component mounting portion and a second front face portion of the second component mounting portion to maintain an orientation of the second component mounting portion relative to the first component mounting portion.

20. The communication system component mounting device of claim 19, wherein the orientation retaining portion is structurally configured to engage the first front face portion of the first component mounting portion and a third front face portion of the third component mounting portion to maintain an orientation of the third component mounting portion relative to the first component mounting portion.

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