Enhanced optical fiber cable slack storage, management, and / or connection access device or enclosure

Abstract

An optical fiber cable device configured to provide enhanced slack storage, cable management, and / or optical fiber connection access. The device may include an optical fiber input-to-output cable connectivity portion configured to operatively connect an optical fiber input cable portion of an optical fiber input cable to an output fiber output cable portion of an optical fiber output cable. The optical fiber input-to-output cable connectivity portion may be configured to allow an optical fiber output cable slack storage portion to selectively move relative to at least one portion of the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion when the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion is connected to the input fiber optic cable portion and the output fiber optic cable portion, and allow the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion to selectively move relative to an optical fiber input cable slack storage portion during operation of the device.

Description

Attorney Docket No. 0374.4618-PCTENHANCED OPTICAL FIBER CABLE SLACK STORAGE, MANAGEMENT, AND / OR CONNECTION ACCESS DEVICE OR ENCLOSURECROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 689,320 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 optical fiber devices, systems, and / or enclosures, and more particularly, to an enhanced optical fiber cable storage, management, and / or connection access device that may include, among other things, slack cable storage portions for input cables and / or output cables.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., cable storage, splitting, splicing, and patching).

[0004] Some current enclosure designs may include slack cable storage features for storing excess length (e.g., three or more feet) of feed cables entering the enclosure. In some applications, slack cable storage for storing excess length of drop cables exiting the enclosure may be desirable. Storing excess length of drop cables, however, may be challenging in an enclosure that already has slack cable storage features for feed cables due to space constraints and the need to access the system components that provide connectivity functions (e.g., splitting, splicing, and patching).

[0005] Accordingly, it may be desirable to provide an optical fiber device that includes separate optical fiber slack cable storage portions for input cables and output cables configured to provide enhanced optical fiber cable storage, management, and / or connection access..SUMMARY

[0006] An optical fiber cable device may be configured to provide enhanced slack storage, cable management, and / or optical fiber connection access. In someAttorney Docket No. 0374.4618-PCT embodiments, the device may include an optical fiber input-to-output cable connectivity portion configured to operatively connect an optical fiber input cable portion of an optical fiber input cable into an output fiber output cable portion of an optical fiber output cable.

[0007] In some embodiments, the optical fiber input-to-output cable connectivity portion may be configured to provide cable management and / or optical fiber connection access by allowing an optical fiber output cable slack storage portion to selectively move relative to at least one portion of the input-to-output optical fiber connectivity portion when the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion is connected to the input fiber optic cable portion of the input fiber optic cable and the output fiber optic cable portion of the output fiber optic cable.

[0008] In some embodiments, the optical fiber input-to-output cable connectivity portion may be configured to provide cable management and / or optical fiber connection access by allowing the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion to selectively move relative to an optical fiber input cable slack storage portion during operation of the device.

[0009] In some embodiments, the at least one portion of the input-to-output optical fiber connectivity portion may include a splicing portion.

[0010] In some embodiments, the optical fiber output cable slack storage portion may be configured to pivot relative to the splicing portion of the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion.

[0011] In some embodiments, the optical fiber output cable slack storage portion may be configured to attach to another portion of the input-to-output optical fiber connectivity portion that is different than the at least one portion.

[0012] In some embodiments, the device may include a body portion defining an interior space and an opening to the interior space. In some embodiments, the device may include a cover portion structurally configured to be joined to the body portion and to move relative to the body portion between a closed position and an open position.

[0013] In some embodiments, the optical fiber output cable slack storage portion may be configured to attach to the cover portion.

[0014] In some embodiments, when the cover portion is in the closed position, the optical fiber input-to-output cable connectivity portion may be positioned between the optical fiber input cable slack storage portion and the output cable slack storage portion.Attorney Docket No. 0374.4618-PCT

[0015] In some embodiments, the optical fiber input cable slack storage portion may be structurally configured to store the input cable excess length portion of the optical fiber input cable independent from storage of an output cable excess length portion of the optical fiber output cable by the optical fiber output cable slack storage portion.

[0016] In some embodiments, the optical fiber input-to-output cable connectivity portion may be configured to move between a stored position and an extended position.

[0017] In some embodiments, the optical fiber output cable slack storage portion may include a storage space portion defined by a first wall portion and a sidewall portion extending from the first wall portion. In some embodiments, the optical fiber output cable slack storage portion may include a cable retaining portion configured to retain the second excess length of the output fiber optic cable within the storage space portion.

[0018] In some embodiments, the cable retaining portion may include a plurality of projecting portions configured to retain the output cable excess length portion of the optical fiber output cable between the first wall portion and the plurality of projecting portions. In some embodiments, an optical fiber cable device may be configured to provide enhanced slack storage, cable management, and / or optical fiber connection access. In some embodiments, the device may include , a body portion defining an interior space and an opening to the interior space and a cover portion structurally configured to be joined to the body portion and to pivot relative to the body portion between a closed position, where the cover portion is configured to cover at least one portion of the interior space, and an open position, where the cover is configured to permit access to the at least one portion of the interior space.

[0019] In some embodiments, the device may include an optical fiber input-to-output cable connectivity portion positioned in the interior space and structurally configured to operatively connect an optical fiber input cable portion of an optical fiber input cable into an output fiber output cable portion of an optical fiber output cable.

[0020] In some embodiments, the device may include an optical fiber input cable slack storage portion structurally configured to store an input cable excess length portion of the optical fiber input cable in at least a portion of the interior space.

[0021] In some embodiments, the device may include an optical fiber output cable slack storage portion structurally configured to store an output cable excess length portion of the optical fiber output cable.Attorney Docket No. 0374.4618-PCT

[0022] In some embodiments, the optical fiber input cable slack storage portion may be structurally configured to store the input cable excess length portion of the optical fiber input cable independent from storage of the output cable excess length portion of the optical fiber output cable by the optical fiber output cable slack storage portion.

[0023] In some embodiments, the optical fiber input-to-output cable connectivity portion may be configured to selectively connect the optical fiber input cable to the optical fiber output cable such that when the optical fiber input cable is connected to the optical fiber output cable by the optical fiber input-to-output cable connectivity portion.

[0024] In some embodiments, the optical fiber output cable slack storage portion may be configured to move relative to at least one portion of the optical fiber input-to-output cable connectivity portion.

[0025] In some embodiments, the optical fiber input-to-output cable connectivity portion may be configured to move relative to the optical fiber input cable slack storage portion so as to provide enhanced slack storage, cable management, and / or optical fiber connection access.

[0026] In some embodiments, when the cover portion is in the closed position, the optical fiber input-to-output cable connectivity portion may be configured to be positioned between the optical fiber input cable slack storage portion and the optical fiber output cable slack storage portion.

[0027] In some embodiments, the at least one portion of the optical fiber input-to- output cable connectivity portion may be a splicing portion and the optical fiber output cable slack storage portion may be configured to pivot relative to the splicing portion of the optical fiber input-to-output cable connectivity portion.

[0028] In some embodiments, the optical fiber output cable slack storage portion may be configured to be selectively attached to one of the cover portion or a second portion of the optical fiber input-to-output cable connectivity portion.

[0029] In some embodiments, the optical fiber output cable slack storage portion may include an output cable storage space portion defined by a first wall portion and a sidewall portion extending from the first wall portion and a plurality of projecting portions configured to retain the output cable excess length portion of the optical fiber output cable between the first wall portion and the plurality of radially projecting portions.Attorney Docket No. 0374.4618-PCT

[0030] In some embodiments, an optical fiber cable device configured to provide enhanced slack storage, cable management, and / or optical fiber connection access. In some embodiments, the device may include an optical fiber input-to-output cable connectivity portion configured to operatively connect an optical fiber input cable portion of an optical fiber input cable into an output fiber output cable portion of an optical fiber output cable, an optical fiber input cable slack storage portion structurally configured to store an input cable excess length portion of the optical fiber input cable in at least a portion of the interior space, and an optical fiber output cable slack storage portion structurally configured to store an output cable excess length portion of the optical fiber output cable.

[0031] In some embodiments, the optical fiber input cable slack storage portion may be structurally configured to store the input cable excess length portion of the optical fiber input cable independent from storage of the output cable excess length portion of the optical fiber output cable by the optical fiber output cable slack storage portion.

[0032] In some embodiments, the optical fiber input-to-output cable connectivity portion may be configured to selectively connect the optical fiber input cable to the optical fiber output cable such that when the optical fiber input cable is connected to the optical fiber output cable by the optical fiber input-to-output cable connectivity portion. In some embodiments, the optical fiber output cable slack storage portion may be configured to move relative to at least one portion of the optical fiber input-to-output cable connectivity portion. In some embodiments, the optical fiber input-to-output cable connectivity portion may be configured to move relative to the optical fiber input cable slack storage portion so as to provide enhanced slack storage, cable management, and / or optical fiber connection access.

[0033] In some embodiments, the at least one portion of the optical fiber input-to- output connectivity portion may include a splicing portion.

[0034] In some embodiments, the device may include a body portion defining an interior space and an opening to the interior space. In some embodiments, the device may include a cover portion structurally configured to be joined to the body portion and to move relative to the body portion between a closed position and an open position.

[0035] In some embodiments, the optical fiber output cable slack storage portion may be configured to attach to one of the cover portion or to another portion of the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion that is different than the at least one portion.Attorney Docket No. 0374.4618-PCT

[0036] 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.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0037] 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.

[0038] FIG. 1 is schematic illustration of an example enclosure in accordance with various aspects of the disclosure in a closed position.

[0039] FIG. 2 is schematic illustration of the enclosure of FIG. 1 in an open position.

[0040] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an example enclosure in accordance with various aspects of the disclosure in an open position.

[0041] FIG. 4. is a perspective view of an example body portion of the enclosure of FIG. 3.

[0042] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an example input cable slack storage portion.

[0043] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an example output cable slack storage portion.

[0044] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an example optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion joined to the input cable slack storage portion of FIG. 5.

[0045] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an example optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion, an example input cable slack storage portion, and an example output cable slack storage portion in an assembled condition.

[0046] FIG. 9 is perspective view of the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion, the input cable slack storage portion, and the example output cable slack storage portion with the output cable slack storage portion separated from the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion.

[0047] FIG. 10 is a side view of the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion in an extended position and a closed condition.

[0048] FIG. 1 1 is a side view of the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion in an extended position and a open condition.Attorney Docket No. 0374.4618-PCTDETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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.

[0051] 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.

[0052] Embodiments of the disclosure provide a communication system enclosure 10 for providing connectivity solutions (e.g., cable storage, splitting, splicing, and patching) for communication cable, such as fiber optic cable. The enclosure 10 may be structurally configured to house communication system components (e.g., equipment, cable, etc.) and provide convenient access to the communication system components. For example, in some implementations, the enclosure 10 may be structurally configured to move one or more communication system components to a position that provide enhanced access (e.g., a position external to the enclosure).

[0053] Referring to FIGS. 1 -2. in some implementations, the enclosure 10 may include a housing portion 12, a optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 14, an input cable slack storage portion 16, and an output cable slack storage portion 18. The housing portion 12 may be structurally configured to house the optical fiber input-to- output connectivity portion 14, the input cable slack storage portion 16, and the outputAttorney Docket No. 0374.4618-PCT cable slack storage portion 18. The housing portion 12 may be configured in a variety of ways, including, but limited to, size, shape, and materials used.

[0054] In some embodiments, the housing portion 12 may include a body portion 20 and a cover portion 22. In some embodiments, the body portion 20 may include a bottom wall portion 24 and one or more sidewall portions 26 defining an interior space 28 and an opening 30 to the interior space 28 opposite the bottom wall portion 24. The interior space 28 may be structurally configured to house one or more of the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 14 and the input cable slack storage portion 16.

[0055] The cover portion 22 may be structurally configured to move between a closed position (FIG. 1 ) in which the cover portion 22 covers the opening 30 and an open position (FIG. 2) in which the opening 30 is uncovered (e.g., the contents of the interior space 28 are accessible from outside of the enclosure 10). The cover portion 22 may be structurally configured to move between the closed position and the open position in a variety of ways.

[0056] In some embodiments, the cover portion 22 may pivot relative to the body portion 20 via a pivot joint portion 32 between the closed and open position. The pivot joint portion 32 may be configured in a variety of ways, such as, but not limited to, a mechanical hinge, a living hinge, etc. In some embodiments, the pivot joint portion 32 may join the cover portion 22 to the body portion 20.

[0057] In some embodiments, the body portion 20 may be structurally configured to receive one or more input or feed fiber optic cables 34 and one or more output or drop fiber optic cables 36. In some embodiments, the body portion 20 may include a cable inlet portion 38 structurally configured to receive the one or more input fiber optic cables 34 and an outlet cable portion 40 structurally configured to receive the one or more output fiber optic cables 36. In some embodiments, the body portion 20 may include a pass-through cable outlet portion 42 structurally configured to receive one or more pass-through fiber optic cables 44. The pass-through fiber optic cables 44 may be, for example, one or more of the input fiber optic cables 34 or one or more of the input fiber optic cables 34 minus one or more optical fibers 46 separated from the input fiber optic cables 34.

[0058] The optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 14 may be structurally configured to provide one or more connectivity functions, such as, but not limited to splicing, splitting, and patching. The optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portionAttorney Docket No. 0374.4618-PCT14 may be structurally configured to receive the one or more optical fibers 46 of a plurality of fibers from the one or more input fiber optic cables 34, perform the desired connectivity function, and route the one or more optical fibers 46 via the one or more output fiber optic cables 36 out of the body portion 20.

[0059] The optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 14 may be configured in a variety of ways. In some embodiments, the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 14 may be structurally configured to move between a stored position (FIG. 1 ) in which the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 14 is entirely, or mostly, received within the interior space 28 and an extended position (FIG. 2) in which at least a portion of the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 14 extends from the interior space 28 to provide easy access to the optical fiber input-to- output connectivity portion 14.

[0060] In some embodiments, the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 14 may pivot relative to the body portion 20 between the stored position and the extended position via a pivot joint portion 48. The pivot joint portion 48 may be configured in a variety of ways, such as, but not limited to, a mechanical hinge, a living hinge, etc. In some embodiments, the pivot joint portion 48 may join the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 14 to the body portion 20. In some embodiments, the pivot joint portion 48 may join the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 14 to input cable slack storage portion 16.

[0061] In some embodiments, in the stored position, the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 14 may extend along an axis A that is parallel, or near parallel, to the bottom wall portion 24 of the body portion 20. In some embodiments, in the extended position, the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 14 may extend along the axis A at an angle p (FIG. 2). In some embodiments, the angle may be 40 degrees or more, 60 degrees or more, or 90 degrees or more. For example, in some embodiments, in the extended position, the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 14 may extend along the axis A that is perpendicular, or near perpendicular, to the bottom wall portion 24.

[0062] In some embodiments, the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 14 may include a first portion 49 and a second portion 51 . In some embodiments, the first portion 49 and the second portion 51 may be configured to provide different connectivity functions. For example, in some embodiments, the first portion 49 may be configured for splicing (e.g., support one or more splice cassettes) and the secondAttorney Docket No. 0374.4618-PCT portion 51 may be configured for connecting the spliced fiber to the output or drop cables (e.g., support one or more fiber adapters, such as SC adapters, LC adapters, etc.).

[0063] In some embodiments, the second portion 51 may be movable relative to the first portion 49. For example, in some embodiments, the second portion 51 may pivot relative to the first portion 49 between a first position in which the first portion 49 is adjacent the second portion 51 (as shown in FIGS. 1 -2) and a second position in which the first portion 49 is spaced apart from the second portion 51. In some embodiments, the second portion 51 may pivot relative to the first portion 49 about a pivot joint portion 53.

[0064] The input cable slack storage portion 16 may be structurally configured to store an excess length 50 (e.g., in a bundle) of the one or more input fiber optic cables 34 at a location in the body portion 20. The input cable slack storage portion 16 may be configured in a variety of ways. In some embodiments, the input cable slack storage portion 16 may be structurally configured to mount in a fixed position within the interior space 28, such as for example, to the bottom wall portion 24 and / or sidewall portion 26 of the body portion 20. In some embodiments, the input cable slack storage portion 16 may be structurally configured to wind, loop, or wrap the excess length 50 of the one or more input fiber optic cables 34 within the input cable slack storage portion 16.

[0065] The output cable slack storage portion 18 may be structurally configured to store an excess length 52 (e.g., in a bundle) of the one or more output fiber optic cables 36. The output cable slack storage portion 18 may be configured in a variety of ways. In some embodiments, the output cable slack storage portion 18 may be structurally configured to wind, loop, or wrap the excess length 52 of the one or more output fiber optic cables 36 within the output cable slack storage portion 18.

[0066] In some embodiments, the output cable slack storage portion 18 may be structurally configured to move relative to at least a portion of the optical fiber input- to-output connectivity portion 14 to enhance access to the at least a portion of the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 14 (e.g., not block or get in the way of access to the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 14). In some embodiments, the output cable slack storage portion 18 may be structurally configured to mount in a fixed position to the cover portion 22, such as for example, to an inner surface portion 54 of the cover portion 22. Thus, the output cable slack storage portion 18 may be structurally configured to move with the cover portion 22 between the openAttorney Docket No. 0374.4618-PCT position and the closed position. In other embodiments, for example, the output cable slack storage portion 18 may mount to the second portion 51 of the optical fiber input- to-output connectivity portion 14 and be configured to move with the second portion 51 relative to the first portion 49 between the first position and the second position.

[0067] As shown in FIG. 1 , in some embodiments, in the closed position, the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 14, the input cable slack storage portion 16, and the output cable slack storage portion 18 may be housed with the enclosure 10 and may be in a stacked arrangement. As shown in FIG. 2, in some embodiments, in the open position, the output cable slack storage portion 18 is pivoted away from the opening 30 with the cover portion 22 thus providing access to the optical fiber input- to-output connectivity portion 14. Further, in some embodiments, the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 14 may pivot between the stored position (FIG. 1 ) and the extended position (FIG. 2) in which the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 14 may pivot away from the input cable slack storage portion 16 to extend from the interior space 28. In the extended position, the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 14 may be positioned for a technician to have easy access to the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 14 while also providing access to the input cable slack storage portion 16.

[0068] Referring to FIGS. 3-7, embodiments of the disclosure provide a communication system enclosure 100 for providing connectivity solutions (e.g., cable storage, splitting, splicing, and patching) for communication cable, such as fiber optic cable. The enclosure 100 may be structurally configured to house communication system components (e.g., equipment, cable, etc.) and provide convenient access to the communication system components.

[0069] In some embodiments, the enclosure 100 may include a housing portion 102, a optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 104, an input cable slack storage portion 106, and an output cable slack storage portion 108. The housing portion 102 may be structurally configured to house the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 104, the input cable slack storage portion 106, and the output cable slack storage portion 108. The housing portion 102 may be configured in a variety of ways, including, but limited to, size, shape, and materials used.

[0070] Referring to FIGS. 3-4, in some embodiments, the housing portion 102 may include a body portion 120 and a cover portion 122. In some embodiments, the body portion 120 may include a bottom wall portion 124 (FIG. 4) having an inner side surfaceAttorney Docket No. 0374.4618-PCT portion 125 and one or more sidewall portions 126 defining an interior space 128 and an upper edge portion 129 defining an opening 130 to the interior space 128 opposite the bottom wall portion 124. The interior space 128 may be structurally configured to house one or more of the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 104 and the input cable slack storage portion 106. In some embodiments, the housing portion 102 may have a rectangular cuboid shape.

[0071] The cover portion 122 may be structurally configured to move between a closed position (not shown, but similar to FIG. 1 for the enclosure 10) in which the cover portion 122 covers the opening 130 and an open position (FIG. 3) in which the opening 130 is uncovered (e.g., the contents of the interior space 128 are accessible from outside of the enclosure 100). The cover portion 122 may be structurally configured to move between the closed position and the open position in a variety of ways.

[0072] In some embodiments, the cover portion 122 may pivot relative to the body portion 120 via a pivot joint portion 132 (FIG. 4) between the closed and open position. The pivot joint portion 132 may be configured in a variety of ways, such as, but not limited to, a mechanical hinge, a living hinge, etc. In some embodiments, the pivot joint portion 132 may join the cover portion 122 to the body portion 120. In some embodiments, the cover portion 122 may include a top wall portion 133 and a plurality of sidewall portions 135 extending from the top wall portion 133.

[0073] In some embodiments, the body portion 120 may be structurally configured to receive one or more input or feed fiber optic cables (e.g., input or feed fiber optic cables 34) and one or more output or drop fiber optic cables (e.g., output or drop fiber optic cables 36). In some embodiments, the body portion 120 may include a front portion 134 and a rear portion 136 opposite the front portion 134. In some embodiments, the body portion 120 may include a cable inlet portion 138 structurally configured to receive the one or more inlet fiber optic cables and a cable outlet portion 140 structurally configured to receive the one or more output fiber optic cables. In some embodiments, the cable inlet portion 138 and the cable outlet portion 140 may be structurally configured to be on the same side (e.g., the front portion 134) of the body portion 120. In some embodiments, the cable outlet portion 140 may include a plurality of outlet cable ports 141 (e.g., 8 or 12 drop cable ports).

[0074] In some embodiments, the body portion 120 may include a pass-through cable outlet portion 142 structurally configured to receive one or more pass-throughAttorney Docket No. 0374.4618-PCT fiber optic cables (e.g., pass-through fiber optic cable 44). In some embodiments, the pass-through cable outlet portion 142 may be positioned adjacent to the cable inlet portion 138.

[0075] The optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 104 may be structurally configured to provide one or more connectivity functions, such as, but not limited to splicing, splitting, and patching. The optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 104 may be structurally configured to receive the one or more optical fibers (e.g., one or more optical fibers 46) of a plurality of fibers from the one or more input fiber optic cables, perform the desired connectivity function, and route the one or more optical fibers via the one or more output fiber optic cables out of the cable outlet portion 140. In some embodiments, the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 104 may include a plurality of output connector portions 147. In some embodiments, the number of output connector portions 147 may match the number of outlet cable ports 141 such that an output fiber optic cable may extend from each of the output connector portions 147 to a corresponding outlet cable port 141.

[0076] The optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 104 may be configured in a variety of ways. In some embodiments, the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 14 may include a first portion 149 and a second portion 151. In some embodiments, the first portion 149 and the second portion 151 may be configured to provide different connectivity functions. For example, in some embodiments, the first portion 149 may be configured for splicing (e.g., support one or more splice cassettes) and the second portion 151 may be configured for connecting the spliced fiber to the output or drop cables (e.g., support one or more fiber adapters, such as SC adapters, LC adapters, etc.).

[0077] In some embodiments, the second portion 151 may be movable relative to the first portion 149. For example, in some embodiments, the second portion 151 may pivot relative to the first portion 149 between a first position in which the first portion 149 is adjacent the second portion 151 (as shown in FIGS. 3 and 7) and a second position in which the first portion 149 is spaced apart from the second portion 151 . In some embodiments, the second portion 151 may pivot relative to the first portion 149 about a pivot joint portion (not shown).

[0078] In some embodiments, the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 104 may be structurally configured to move between a stored position (e.g., similar to optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 14 in FIG. 1 ) in which the optical fiberAttorney Docket No. 0374.4618-PCT input-to-output connectivity portion 104 is entirely, or mostly, received within the interior space 128 and an extended position (FIG. 3) in which at least a portion of the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 104 extends from the interior space 128 to provide easy access to the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 104 while also providing access to the input cable slack storage portion 106.

[0079] In some embodiments, the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 104 may pivot relative to the body portion 120 between the stored position and the extended position via a pivot joint portion 148 (FIG. 7). The pivot joint portion 148 may be configured in a variety of ways, such as, but not limited to, a mechanical hinge, a living hinge, etc. In some embodiments, the pivot joint portion 148 may join the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 104 to the input cable slack storage portion 106.

[0080] In some embodiments, in the stored position, the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 104 may extend parallel, or near parallel, to the bottom wall portion 124 of the body portion 120. In some embodiments, in the extended position, the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 104 may extend perpendicular, or near perpendicular, to the bottom wall portion 124 (as shown in FIG. 7).

[0081] The input cable slack storage portion 106 may be structurally configured to store an excess length of the one or more input fiber optic cables (e.g., excess length 50) at a location in the body portion 120. The input cable slack storage portion 106 may be configured in a variety of ways. In some embodiments, the input cable slack storage portion 106 may be structurally configured to mount in a fixed position within the interior space 128, such as for example, to the bottom wall portion 124. In some embodiments, the input cable slack storage portion 106 may be structurally configured to wind, loop, or wrap the excess length 50 of the one or more input fiber optic cables within the input cable slack storage portion 106.

[0082] Referring to FIG. 5, in some embodiments, the input cable slack storage portion 106 may include a bottom wall portion 150, one or more sidewall portions 152 extending from, or adjacent, a periphery of the bottom wall portion 150, and a projecting portion 154 extending from the bottom wall portion 150 generally central and spaced apart from the one or more sidewall portions 152. In some embodiments, the bottom wall portion 150, the one or more sidewall portions 152, and the projecting portion 154 define a storage space portion 156 structurally configured to receive and store the excess length of the one or more input fiber optic cables. In someAttorney Docket No. 0374.4618-PCT embodiments, the projecting portion 154 is structurally configured for the excess length of the one or more input fiber optic cables to be wound around.

[0083] In some embodiments, the input cable slack storage portion 106 may include a cable retaining portion 158 structurally configured to retain the excess length of input fiber optic cable within the storage space portion 156. The cable retaining portion 158 may be configured in a variety of ways. In some embodiments, the cable retaining portion 158 may include a plurality of radially projecting portions 160 structurally configured to capture the excess length of input fiber optic cable between the plurality of radially projecting portions 160 and the bottom wall portion 150.

[0084] In some embodiments, the input cable slack storage portion 106 may include a optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion mounting portion 162 structurally configured to mount the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 104 thereto (e.g., via the pivot joint portion 148). In some embodiments, the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion mounting portion 162 may include a sidewall extension portion 164 structurally configured to extend from the sidewall portion 152. In some embodiments, the sidewall extension portion 164 includes an upper edge portion 166 including at least a portion of the pivot joint portion 148.

[0085] The output cable slack storage portion 108 may be structurally configured to store an excess length (e.g., excessive length 52) of the one or more output fiber optic cables. The output cable slack storage portion 108 may be configured in a variety of ways. In some embodiments, the output cable slack storage portion 108 may be structurally configured to wind, loop, or wrap the excess length of the one or more output fiber optic cables within the output cable slack storage portion 108.

[0086] In some embodiments, the output cable slack storage portion 108 may be structurally configured to mount in a fixed position to the cover portion 122, such as for example, to the top wall portion 133 of the cover portion 122. Thus, the output cable slack storage portion 108 may be structurally configured to move with the cover portion 122 between the open position and the closed position.

[0087] Referring to FIG. 6, in some embodiments, the output cable slack storage portion 108 may include a top wall portion 170, one or more sidewall portions 172 extending from, or adjacent, a periphery of the top wall portion 170, and a projecting portion 174 extending from the top wall portion 170 generally central and spaced apart from the one or more sidewall portions 172. In some embodiments, the top wall portion 170, the one or more sidewall portions 172, and the projecting portion 174 define aAttorney Docket No. 0374.4618-PCT storage space portion 176 structurally configured to receive and store the excess length of the one or more output fiber optic cables. In some embodiments, the projecting portion 174 is structurally configured for the excess length of the one or more output fiber optic cables to be wound around.

[0088] In some embodiments, the output cable slack storage portion 108 may include a cable retaining portion 178 structurally configured to retain the excess length of output fiber optic cable within the storage space portion 176. The cable retaining portion 178 may be configured in a variety of ways. In some embodiments, the cable retaining portion 178 may include a plurality of radially projecting portions 180 structurally configured to capture the excess length of output fiber optic cable between the plurality of radially projecting portions 180 and the top wall portion 170.

[0089] Referring to FIGS. 8-9, embodiments of the disclosure provide a optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 204, an input cable slack storage portion 206, and an output cable slack storage portion 208 that may be used with a housing portion of a communication system enclosure for providing connectivity solutions (e.g., cable storage, splitting, splicing, and patching) for communication cable, such as fiber optic cable. In the description below, the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 204, the input cable slack storage portion 206, and the output cable slack storage portion 208 are described regarding being used with the housing portion 102 of the communication system enclosure 100. It will be understood, however, that the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 204, the input cable slack storage portion 206, and the output cable slack storage portion 208 may be used collectively, or separately, with any suitable communication system enclosure and housing portion.

[0090] The optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 204 may be structurally configured to provide one or more connectivity functions, such as, but not limited to splicing, splitting, and patching. The optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 204 may be structurally configured to receive the one or more optical fibers (e.g., one or more optical fibers 46) of a plurality of fibers from the one or more input fiber optic cables, perform the desired connectivity function, and route the one or more optical fibers via the one or more output fiber optic cables out of the cable outlet portion 140. In some embodiments, the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 204 may include a plurality of output portions 247, which may include connectors. In some embodiments, the number of output portions 247 may match the number of outletAttorney Docket No. 0374.4618-PCT cable ports 141 on the housing portion 102 such that an output fiber optic cable may extend from each of the output portion 247 to a corresponding outlet cable port 141 .

[0091] The optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 204 may be configured in a variety of ways. In some embodiments, the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 204 may include a first portion 249 and a second portion 251 . In some embodiments, the first portion 249 and the second portion 251 may be configured to provide different connectivity functions. For example, in some embodiments, the first portion 249 may be configured for splicing (e.g., support one or more splice cassettes) and the second portion 151 may be configured for connecting the spliced fiber to the output or drop cables (e.g., support one or more fiber adapters, such as SC adapters, LC adapters, etc.).

[0092] In some embodiments, the second portion 251 may be movable relative to the first portion 249. For example, in some embodiments, the second portion 251 may pivot relative to the first portion 249 between a first position in which the first portion 249 is adjacent the second portion 251 (as shown in FIG. 10) and a second position in which the first portion 249 is spaced apart from the second portion 251 (as shown in FIG. 11 ). In some embodiments, the second portion 251 may pivot relative to the first portion 249 about a pivot joint portion 253 (FIGS 10-11 ). For example, in some embodiments, in the second position, the first portion 249 may be generally parallel with the input cable slack storage portion 206. The pivot joint portion 253 may be configured in a variety of ways, such as, but not limited to, a mechanical hinge, a living hinge, etc. In some embodiments, the enclosure 100 may include a support portion 230 configured to support the first portion 249 in the second position.

[0093] In some embodiments, the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 204 may be structurally configured to move between a stored position (e.g., similar to optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 14 in FIG. 1 ) in which the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 204 is entirely, or mostly, received within the interior space 128 of the housing portion 102 (e.g., is adjacent to, or stacked on, the input cable slack storage portion 206), as shown in FIG. 8, and an extended position (FIGS. 10-11 ) in which at least a portion of the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 204 extends from the interior space 128 to provide easy access to the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 204 while also providing access to the input cable slack storage portion 206.Attorney Docket No. 0374.4618-PCT

[0094] In some embodiments, the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 204 may pivot relative to the input cable slack storage portion 206 between the stored position and the extended position via a pivot joint portion 248. The pivot joint portion 248 may be configured in a variety of ways, such as, but not limited to, a mechanical hinge, a living hinge, etc. In some embodiments, the pivot joint portion 248 may join the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 204 to the input cable slack storage portion 206. In other embodiments, the pivot joint portion 248 may join the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 204 to the housing portion 102.

[0095] In some embodiments, in the stored position, the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 204 may extend parallel, or near parallel, to the bottom wall portion 124 of the body portion 120 of the housing portion 102 and / or to the input cable slack storage portion 206. In some embodiments, in the extended position, the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 204 may extend perpendicular, or near perpendicular, to the bottom wall portion 124 and / or the input cable slack storage portion 206 (as shown in FIG. 10).

[0096] The input cable slack storage portion 206 may be structurally configured to store an excess length of the one or more input fiber optic cables (e.g., excess length 50) at a location in the body portion 120. The input cable slack storage portion 206 may be configured in a variety of ways. In some embodiments, the input cable slack storage portion 206 may be configured the same as, or substantially the same as, the input cable slack storage portion 106. Thus, the description of the input cable slack storage portion 106 applies equally to the input cable slack storage portion 206.

[0097] The output cable slack storage portion 208 may be structurally configured to store an excess length (e.g., excessive length 52) of the one or more output fiber optic cables. The output cable slack storage portion 208 may be configured in a variety of ways. In some embodiments, the output cable slack storage portion 208 may be structurally configured to wind, loop, or wrap the excess length of the one or more output fiber optic cables within the output cable slack storage portion 208.

[0098] In some embodiments, the output cable slack storage portion 208 may be structurally configured to mount to the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 204. For example, in some embodiments, the output cable slack storage portion 208 may be configured to mount to the second portion 251 of the optical fiber input-to- output connectivity portion 204. Thus, the output cable slack storage portion 208 may be structurally configured to move with optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portionAttorney Docket No. 0374.4618-PCT204 when the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 204 moves between the stored position and the extended position.

[0099] Referring to FIGS. 8-9, in some embodiments, the output cable slack storage portion 208 may include a bottom wall portion 270 and one or more sidewall portions 272 extending from, or adjacent a periphery of the bottom wall portion 270. In some embodiments, the bottom wall portion 270 and the one or more sidewall portions 272 define a storage space portion 276 structurally configured to receive and store the excess length of the one or more output fiber optic cables. In some embodiments, the output cable slack storage portion 208 may include a cable retaining portion 277 structurally configured to retain the excess length of output fiber optic cable within the storage space portion 276. The cable retaining portion 277 may be configured in a variety of ways.

[0100] In some embodiments, the cable retaining portion I may include a plurality of radially projecting portions 278 structurally configured to capture the excess length of output fiber optic cable between the plurality of radially projecting portions 278 and the bottom wall portion 270. The plurality of radially projecting portions 278 may be configured in a variety of ways, including the number of projecting portions, the size of each projecting portion, the location and orientation of the projecting portions.

[0101] The output cable slack storage portion 208 may couple to the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 204 in any suitable manner (e.g., fasteners, a clipping connection, a latch and keeper arrangement, hook and loop fasteners, etc.). In some embodiments, the enclosure 100 may include a coupling portion 280 structurally configured to allow the output cable slack storage portion 208 to couple to the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 204. In some embodiments, the coupling portion 280 may include a first fastener receiving portion 282 (e.g., passages extending through the bottom wall portion 270) configured to receive one or more fasteners 284 (e.g., screws, bolts, etc.) on the output cable slack storage portion 208 and a second fastener receiving portion 286 (e.g., threaded passages on the first portion 249) (FIG. 9) configured to receive the one or more fasteners 284.

[0102] To attach the output cable slack storage portion 208 to the first portion 249, as shown in FIG. 8-9, the output cable slack storage portion 208 may be positioned onto the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 204 (e.g., onto the first portion 249) such that the first and second fastener receiving portion 282, 286 are aligned.Attorney Docket No. 0374.4618-PCTThe fasteners 284 may be received through the first fastener receiving portion 282 and received (e.g., threaded) into the second fastener receiving portion 286 to couple the output cable slack storage portion 208 to the first portion 249. Thus, as shown in FIG. 8, the

[0103] The example communication system enclosures 10, 100 disclosed herein may house the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portions 14, 104, 204, which may be configured to provide connectivity functions (splicing, splitting, connectorized cable connections, patching, etc.) for fiber optic cable. For example, the enclosures 10, 100 may be structurally configured to receive the one or more input fiber optic cables 34, separate one or more optical fibers 46 of a plurality of fibers from the one or more input fiber optic cables 34, perform the desired connectivity function via the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 14, 104, 204 and route the one or more optical fibers 46 via the one or more output fiber optic cables 36 out of the enclosure.

[0104] The example communication system enclosures 10, 100 may also provide an input cable slack storage portion 16, 106, 206 for the one or more input fiber optic cables 34 between the cable inlet portion 38, 138 and the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 14, 104 and an output cable slack storage portion 18, 108, 208 for the one or more output fiber optic cables 36 between the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 14, 104, 204 and the cable outlet portion 40, 140. The input cable slack storage portion 16, 106, 206 for the one or more input fiber optic cables 34 may be configured to store the first excess length of the input fiber optic cable 34 independent from the output cable slack storage portion 18, 108, 208 storing a second excess length of the output fiber optic cable 36.

[0105] In some embodiments, the output cable slack storage portion 18, 108, 208 for the one or more output fiber optic cables 36 may be structurally configured to move to an open position to provide access (e.g., to a technician) to at least a portion of the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 14, 104, 204. The optical fiber input- to-output connectivity portion 14, 104, 204 may be structurally configured to move to an extended position to provide enhanced access (e.g., to a technician) to the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 14, 104. In some embodiments, the output cable slack storage portion 18, 108, 208 for the one or more output fiber optic cables 36 may be pivot relative to at least a portion of the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 14, 104, 204, such as the second portion 51 , 151 , 251. Thus, in some embodiments, the output cable slack storage portion 18, 108, 208 may moveAttorney Docket No. 0374.4618-PCT(e.g., pivot) relative to a splicing portion of the communication system enclosure 10, 100. In some embodiments, the output cable slack storage portion 18, 108, 208 may move (e.g., pivot) relative to the entire optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 14, 104, 204. In some embodiments, both the output cable slack storage portion 18, 108, 208 and the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 14, 104, 204 may move with the input fiber optic cable 34 operatively connected to the output fiber optic cable 36 by the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 14, 104, 204. Thus, in some embodiments, with the input fiber optic cable 34 operatively connected to the output fiber optic cable 36 by the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 14, 104, 204, the output cable slack storage portion 18, 108, 208 may be configured to move relative to at least a portion (e.g., the second portion 51 , 151 , 251 ) of the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 14, 104, 204 and the optical fiber input-to- output connectivity portion 14, 104, 204 may be configured to move relative to the input cable slack storage portion 16, 106, 206 to provide enhanced access to the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion 14, 104, 204.

[0106] 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 of elements without departing from the scope of the disclosure as set forth in the appended claims and the legal equivalents thereof.

Claims

1. Attorney Docket No. 0374.4618-PCTCLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. An optical fiber cable device configured to provide enhanced slack storage, cable management, and / or optical fiber connection access, comprising: a body portion defining an interior space and an opening to the interior space; a cover portion structurally configured to be joined to the body portion and to pivot relative to the body portion between a closed position, where the cover portion is configured to cover at least one portion of the interior space, and an open position, where the cover portion is configured to permit access to the at least one portion of the interior space; an optical fiber input-to-output cable connectivity portion positioned in the interior space and structurally configured to operatively connect an optical fiber input cable portion of an optical fiber input cable into an output fiber output cable portion of an optical fiber output cable; an optical fiber input cable slack storage portion structurally configured to store an input cable excess length portion of the optical fiber input cable in at least a portion of the interior space; an optical fiber output cable slack storage portion structurally configured to store an output cable excess length portion of the optical fiber output cable; wherein the optical fiber input cable slack storage portion is structurally configured to store the input cable excess length portion of the optical fiber input cable independent from storage of the output cable excess length portion of the optical fiber output cable by the optical fiber output cable slack storage portion; and wherein the optical fiber input-to-output cable connectivity portion is configured to selectively connect the optical fiber input cable to the optical fiber output cable such that when the optical fiber input cable is connected to the optical fiber output cable by the optical fiber input-to-output cable connectivity portion, the optical fiber output cable slack storage portion is configured to move relative to at least one portion of the optical fiber input-to-output cable connectivity portion and the optical fiber input-to-output cable connectivity portion is configured to move relative to the optical fiber input cable slackAttorney Docket No. 0374.4618-PCT storage portion so as to provide enhanced slack storage, cable management, and / or optical fiber connection access.

2. The device of claim 1 , wherein when the cover portion is in the closed position, the optical fiber input-to-output cable connectivity portion is configured to be positioned between the optical fiber input cable slack storage portion and the optical fiber output cable slack storage portion.

3. The device of claim 1 , wherein the at least one portion of the optical fiber input- to-output cable connectivity portion is a splicing portion and the optical fiber output cable slack storage portion is configured to pivot relative to the splicing portion of the optical fiber input-to-output cable connectivity portion.

4. The device of claim 1 , wherein the optical fiber output cable slack storage portion is configured to be selectively attached to one of the cover portion or a second portion of the optical fiber input-to-output cable connectivity portion.

5. The device of any one of claims 1 -4, wherein the optical fiber output cable slack storage portion comprises: an output cable storage space portion defined by a first wall portion and a sidewall portion extending from the first wall portion; and a plurality of projecting portions configured to retain the output cable excess length portion of the optical fiber output cable between the first wall portion and the plurality of projecting portions.

6. An optical fiber cable device configured to provide enhanced slack storage, cable management, and / or optical fiber connection access, comprising: an optical fiber input-to-output cable connectivity portion configured to operatively connect an optical fiber input cable portion of an optical fiber input cable into an output fiber output cable portion of an optical fiber output cable; an optical fiber input cable slack storage portion structurally configured to store an input cable excess length portion of the optical fiber input cable; an optical fiber output cable slack storage portion structurally configured to store an output cable excess length portion of the optical fiber output cable;Attorney Docket No. 0374.4618-PCT wherein the optical fiber input cable slack storage portion is structurally configured to store the input cable excess length portion of the optical fiber input cable independent from storage of the output cable excess length portion of the optical fiber output cable by the optical fiber output cable slack storage portion; and wherein the optical fiber input-to-output cable connectivity portion is configured to selectively connect the optical fiber input cable to the optical fiber output cable such that when the optical fiber input cable is connected to the optical fiber output cable by the optical fiber input-to-output cable connectivity portion, the optical fiber output cable slack storage portion is configured to move relative to at least one portion of the optical fiber input-to-output cable connectivity portion and the optical fiber input-to-output cable connectivity portion is configured to move relative to the optical fiber input cable slack storage portion so as to provide enhanced slack storage, cable management, and / or optical fiber connection access.

7. The device of claim 6, wherein the at least one portion of the optical fiber input- to-output cable connectivity portion is a splicing portion.

8. The device of claim 6 or 7, further comprising: a body portion defining an interior space and an opening to the interior space; and a cover portion structurally configured to be joined to the body portion and to move relative to the body portion between a closed position and an open position.

9. The device of claim 8, wherein the optic fiber output cable slack storage portion is configured to attach to one of the cover portion or to another portion of the optical fiber input-to-output cable connectivity portion that is different than the at least one portion.

10. An optical fiber cable device configured to provide enhanced slack storage, cable management, and / or optical fiber connection access, comprising:Attorney Docket No. 0374.4618-PCT an optical fiber input-to-output cable connectivity portion configured to operatively connect an optical fiber input cable portion of an optical fiber input cable into an optical fiber output cable portion of an optical fiber output cable; and wherein the optical fiber input-to-output cable connectivity portion is configured to provide cable management and / or optical fiber connection access by allowing an optical fiber output cable slack storage portion to selectively move relative to at least one portion of the optical fiber input-to-output cable connectivity portion when the optical fiber input-to-output cable connectivity portion is connected to the input fiber optic cable portion of the input fiber optic cable and the output fiber optic cable portion of the output fiber optic cable, and by allowing the optical fiber input-to-output cable connectivity portion to selectively move relative to an optical fiber input cable slack storage portion during operation of the device.11 . The device of claim 10, wherein the at least one portion of the optical fiber input- to-output cable connectivity portion includes a splicing portion.

12. The device of claim 11 , wherein the optical fiber output cable slack storage portion is configured to pivot relative to the splicing portion of the optical fiber input-to-output connectivity portion.

13. The device of claim 10, wherein the optical fiber output cable slack storage portion is configured to attach to another portion of the of the optical fiber input- to-output cable connectivity portion that is different than the at least one portion.

14. The device of claim 10, further comprising: a body portion defining an interior space and an opening to the interior space; and a cover portion structurally configured to be joined to the body portion and to move relative to the body portion between a closed position and an open position.Attorney Docket No. 0374.4618-PCT15. The device of claim 14, wherein the optical fiber output cable slack storage portion is configured to attach to the cover portion.

16. The device of claim 14, wherein when the cover portion is in the closed position, the optical fiber input-to-output cable connectivity portion is positioned between the optical fiber input cable slack storage portion and the optical fiber output cable slack storage portion.

17. The device of any one of claims 10-16, wherein the optical fiber input cable slack storage portion is structurally configured to store an input cable excess length portion of the optical fiber input cable independent from storage of an output cable excess length portion of the optical fiber output cable by the optical fiber output cable slack storage portion.

18. The device of any one of claims 10-16, wherein the optical fiber input-to-output cable connectivity portion is configured to move between a stored position and an extended position.

19. The device of claim 17, wherein the optical fiber output cable slack storage portion comprises: a storage space portion defined by a first wall portion and a sidewall portion extending from the first wall portion; and a cable retaining portion configured to retain the output cable excess length portion of the optical fiber output cable within the storage space portion.

20. The device of claim 19, wherein the cable retaining portion includes a plurality of projecting portions configured to retain the output cable excess length portion of the optical fiber output cable between the first wall portion and the plurality of projecting portions.

Images