Transition box for multiple dwelling unit fiber optic distribution network

A transition box for a fiber optic network for a multiple distribution unit (MDU) is disclosed. The transition box comprises an enclosure a fiber optic adapter removably mounted in the enclosure. The fiber optic adapter is configured to receive one or more optical fibers of a riser cable to provide optical communication service from a service provider to a subscriber premises. A payout reel removably mounted in the enclosure stores slack of the riser cable paid out to at least one of one or more distribution levels in the MDU.

BACKGROUND

Field of the Disclosure

The technology of the disclosure relates to a fiber optic distribution network solutions for indoor applications, particularly for multiple dwelling units. The fiber optic network solution can include a transition box that provides a termination and slack storage point to transition from a vertical run riser cable to a drop cable that feeds multiple users on a distribution level of the multiple dwelling unit and to transition from vertical run riser cable to a distribution cable that optically connects to a feeder cable through a local convergence point at a lower level of the MDU.

Technical Background

In the world of the ever-increasing need for broadband bandwidth optical cables have become the main part of telecommunication networks. Optical cables can transmit voice signals, data signals and video signals for very long distances with very high speed. Developments of optic telecommunication networks allow the connection of the end user directly to the optical fiber. This kind of network technology known as FTTH technology (fiber to the home) requires extending an “all optical” communication network closer to the subscribers. As a result such telecommunication networks include large number distribution points from a distribution cable to an end user or subscriber.

One of the key parts of the FTTH network is the last mile connection which often is an indoor installation. Different kinds of buildings like multiple dwelling units and apartments require complicated cabling systems which might mean that there are many separated cables, each one to connect one subscriber. Installation of many cables which provide the connection between a main distribution point (which usually is located in the basement or in another place of the building) and the end user may cause many problems with routing through the wall or levels of the building. As a result, such installations consume a lot of time and costs.

SUMMARY

Embodiments disclosed in the detailed description include a transition box for a fiber optic network for a multiple distribution unit (MDU). The transition box comprises an enclosure and a fiber optic adapter removably mounted in the enclosure. The fiber optic adapter is configured to receive one or more optical fibers of a riser cable to provide optical communication service from a service provider to a subscriber premises. A payout reel removably mounted in the enclosure stores slack of the riser cable paid out to extend to at least one of one or more distribution levels in the MDU.

In another embodiment, a transition box for a fiber optic network for a multiple distribution unit (MDU) having an enclosure and a module removable mounted in the enclosure is disclosed. A fiber optic adapter assembly is pivotably mounted in the module. The fiber optic adapter assembly has at least one multi-fiber adapter and at least one single fiber adapter. A riser cable optically connects at the fiber optic adapter assembly to provide optical communication service to a subscriber premises. A payout reel removably mounted in the enclosure stores slack of the riser cable paid out to extend to at least one of one or more distribution levels in the MDU.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

Embodiments disclosed in the detailed description include a fiber optic distribution network for a multi-floor multiple dwelling unit (MDU). The network includes a local convergence point (LCP) which may be located in a lower level of the MDU, for example, the basement. The LCP receives a feeder cable that provides optical communication service to the MDU from a service provider. One or more preconnectorized riser cables having multi-fiber connectors on each end optically connect to the feeder cable through the LCP. The riser cable extends from the LCP to one or more upper distribution levels of the MDU. At the distribution level, the riser cable is received by a network access point, which may be comprised of a fiber distribution terminal (FDT), a mid-span access point, or the like. For purposes herein, the terms network access point may be used to describe either one or more of the FDT and the mid-span access point. Additionally, it should be understood that the terms FDT, pipe-in-box, and closet box will be used to refer and describe a component of the fiber optic distribution network located at the distribution level for optically connecting the riser cable to the drop cable. The term patch panel enclosure will be used when describing the component of the fiber optic distribution network for optically connecting and extending the riser cable to the LCP and, thereby, to the feeder cable.

Optically connecting the riser cable and to the subscriber premises may be through tether cables branched off from the riser cable at each distribution level, for example, at a mid-span access point of the riser cable. The tether cables may be connected to subscriber premises via one or more drop cables at the network access point. Alternatively, or additionally, an individual riser cable may be extended to the distribution level and optically connect to one or more drop cables routed to the subscriber premises. In such case, a tether cable may not be branched off of the riser cable at a mid-span access point. The drop cable extends to the subscriber premises at the distribution level to provide optical communication service to the subscriber. Any riser cable slack may be stored in the FDT, the patch panel enclosure, and/or a separate slack enclosure. Additionally, the riser cable slack may be stored on the payout reel, with the payout reel removably mounted in the FDT, the patch panel enclosure, or the slack enclosure. The slack enclosure may be located at or adjacent to the LCP or at one or more of the distribution levels.

The end of the riser cable would optically connect to the end of one or more drop cables. In either case, the tether cable and/or the riser cable may terminate in a fiber optic connector and optically connect to the drop cable terminated in a fiber optic connector through a suitable fiber optic adapter. The fiber optic adapter may be one that provides for multi-fiber connector to multi-fiber connector interconnection, such as, for example an MTP adapter, or other types of multi-fiber adapters. Additionally or alternatively, the fiber optic adapter may be one that provides for single fiber connector to single fiber connector interconnection, for example an SC adapter, or other types of single fiber adapters. The fiber optic adapters may have dual shutters, one on each end of the adapter. The shutters are adapted to automatically close against the end of the adapter when a fiber optic connector is not inserted in that end of the adapter. In this manner, the shutters may provide sealing of the adapter against the environment, keeping the adapter protected and clean when not in use. The adapter may be keyed up and down to coordinate with the polarity of the connectors. The adapters may be mounted in a cassette or module which is removably mounted in the network access point. Alternatively, the adapter may be removably mounted to a panel which may be removably mounted in the network access point.

As such, the FDT and/or the patch panel enclosure may act as or be a transition box having one or more removably mounted fiber optic adapters configured to receive one or more optical fibers of a riser cable to provide optical communication service from a service provider to a subscriber premises. Additionally, the transition box may have one or more removably mounted payout reels storing the slack of the riser cable or cables paid out in the MDU.

In this regard,FIGS. 1-6illustrate exemplary embodiments of fiber optic networks in an MDU10.FIG. 1is a schematic diagram of a perspective elevation view of the MDU10with an exemplary fiber optic network12installed therein. A riser cable14with pre-set mid-span access points16extends from a payout reel18. The mid-span access point16may comprise a FlexNAP System, as commercially available from Corning Cable Systems LLC, or other type of connection or system that provides for the separation of one or more optical fibers from the riser cable14. The riser cable14pays out from a payout reel18. Once the riser cable14is paid out from the payout reel18to multiple distribution levels24,26,28, the payout reel18is removably mounted in a patch panel enclosure20. Although, inFIG. 1three higher levels24,26,28are illustrated, the fiber optic network12may have any number of distribution levels. The riser cable14is preconnectorized with multi-fiber connectors30,32at each end of the riser cable14. The patch panel enclosure20has a multi-fiber-to-multi-fiber adapter assembly34which receives a first multi-fiber connector30. A distribution cable36preconnectorized with a multi-fiber connector38, is received by and connects to the multi-fiber adapter assembly34in the patch panel enclosure20to establish an optical connection between the riser cable14and the distribution cable36. The distribution cable36routes to a local convergence point (LCP)40. The LCP40receives a feeder cable42which provides optical communication service to the MDU10from a service provider.

During installation, the riser cable14pays out from the payout reel18such that the riser cable14extends generally in an upward direction from the lower level22to each ascending distribution level24,26in succession with distribution level28being the highest distribution level in the MDU10. The mid-span access points16are preset such that they are separated by a distance “X” along the length of the riser cable14. The distance “X” is preset at the factory to a certain value depending on the distance between adjoining distribution levels24,26. As examples, the distance “X” may be set at any desired distance, as examples, 10 feet, 12 feet, 14 feet, 15 feet, and the like. In this manner, as the riser cable14pays out and installed in the MDU10, the preset mid-span access points will align, generally, with each distribution level24,26,28of the MDU10. However, the one exception to this may be the highest distribution level28, since the end of the riser cable14would extend to that level and would not have a mid-span access point. Any riser cable14slack due to the presetting of the distance “X” or otherwise, may be stored on the payout reel18, in the patch panel enclosure20and/or a slack enclosure (not shown inFIG. 1). Slack may also be stored loosely at the lower level22, and/or in one or more fiber distribution terminals29located at one or more of the distribution levels24,26,28. Additionally, the payout reel18may be removably mounted in the slack housing or may be mounted or located separate from the patch panel enclosure20and/or slack enclosure and/or from the FDT29at one or more of the distribution levels24,26,28.

The riser cable14may be any number of optical fibers, as non-limiting examples, 6-216 fibers. At each mid-span access point16, certain ones of the optical fibers may be separated or furcated out from the riser cable14in a FDT29located at the distribution level24,26. As non-limiting examples, 6, 8 or 12 fibers may be furcated out from the riser cable14and terminated with the second multi-fiber connector32. At the highest distribution level28, the optical fibers remaining in the riser cable14after furcating out the optical fibers at lower distribution levels24,26are terminated with the second multi-fiber connector32. The second multi-fiber connector32may be received by a multi-fiber adapter assembly34removably mounted in the FDT29at the distribution level24,26,28. The multi-fiber adapter assembly34may removably mounted in a connector module (not shown inFIG. 1), which may be removably mounted in the FDT29.

A multi-fiber bundled drop cable44preconnectorized with a multi-fiber connector38, is received by and connects to the multi-fiber adapter assembly34, or the connector module, as the case may be, in the FDT29located at the distribution reel24,26,28. In this manner an optical connection is established between the riser cable14and the multi-fiber bundled drop cable44. The multi-fiber bundled drop cable44routes to one or more drop boxes46associated with subscriber premises48located at the distribution level24,26,28. One or more optical fiber separates from the multi-fiber bundled drop cable44at the drop box46and extends to the subscriber premises48. In this manner, optical communication service is provided to the subscriber premises48.

Alternatively or additionally, one or more connectorized harnesses may be connected between the multi-fiber adapters in the multi-fiber adapter assembly34and extended to single fiber adapters (not shown inFIG. 1). In such a case, connectorized single fiber drop cables may connect to the harnesses to establish optical connection with the riser cable14, and ultimately to the subscriber premises48.

FIG. 2is a schematic diagram of a perspective elevation view the MDU10with an exemplary fiber optic network112installed therein. The riser cable14with pre-set mid-span access points16extends from a payout reel18in a separate slack enclosure50located at the highest distribution level28to the other distribution levels24,26and the lower level22. The fiber optic network112is similar to fiber optic network12shown onFIG. 1, and, therefore, the aspects and/or components of the fiber optic network112described with respect toFIG. 1will not be described again with respect toFIG. 2. InFIG. 2, after the riser cable14is paid out, the payout reel18is removably mounted in the slack enclosure50located at the highest level28instead of the patch panel enclosure20. In this manner, during installation, the riser cable14pays out from the payout reel18such that the riser cable14extends generally in a downward direction from the highest distribution level28to each descending distribution level24,26in succession, and to the patch panel enclosure20.

The patch panel enclosure20includes a multi-fiber adapter assembly34but may not include the payout reel18since that is located at the highest distribution level28in fiber optic network112. However, the multi-fiber adapter assembly34in the patch panel enclosure20receives the first multi-fiber connector30and optically connects it with the multi-fiber connector38of the distribution cable36to establish an optical connection between the riser cable14and the distribution cable36as described above with respect toFIG. 1.

FIG. 3is a schematic diagram of a perspective elevation view of the MDU10with an exemplary fiber optic network212installed therein. The riser cable14with pre-set mid-span access points16extends from the payout reel18in the FDT29located at the highest distribution level28to the other distribution levels24,26. The fiber optic network212is similar to fiber optic network12shown onFIG. 1and the fiber optic network112shown onFIG. 2and, therefore, the aspects and/or components of the fiber optic network212described with respect toFIG. 1and/orFIG. 2will not be described again with respect toFIG. 3. InFIG. 3, after the riser cable14is paid out, the payout reel18is removably mounted in the FDT29located at the highest distribution level28instead of the slack enclosure50, as described with respect toFIG. 2. In this way, the slack enclosure50is not needed at the highest distribution level28conserving space. The paying out and installation of the riser cable14may be the same as described with respect toFIG. 2.

FIG. 4is a schematic diagram of a perspective elevation view of the MDU10with an exemplary fiber optic network312installed therein. A plurality of riser cables14(1),14(2),14(3) each extend from a separate payout reel18(1),18(2),18(3) in the patch panel enclosure20and extending to respective ones of the distribution levels24,26,28. Each riser cable14(1),14(2),14(3) pays out from respective payout reels18(1),18(2),18(3). After the riser cable14(1),14(2),14(3) is paid out, the respective payout reel18(1),18(2),18(3) is removably mounted in the patch panel enclosure20. The riser cables14(1),14(2),14(3) extend generally in an upward direction from the lower level22to separate ascending distribution level24,26,28. In this manner, a separate riser cable14provides optical service to a separate distribution level24,26,28. Each of the riser cables14(1),14(2),14(3) terminates with respective second multi-fiber connectors32which are received by and connected to the respective multi-fiber adapter assembly34in the FDT29located at the distribution levels24,26,28. In the patch panel enclosure20, the riser cables14(1),14(2),14(3) extend from each of the payout reels18(1),18(2),18(3) to the multi-fiber adapter assembly34located at the patch panel enclosure20. The first multi-fiber connector30of each respective riser cable14(1),14(2),14(3) is received by and connects to the multi-fiber adapter assembly34in the patch panel enclosure20. The distribution cable36preconnectorized with a multi-fiber connector38, is received by and connects to the multi-fiber adapter assembly34in the patch panel enclosure20to establish an optical connection between the riser cables14(1),14(2),14(3) and the distribution cable36. The distribution cable36routes to the LCP40.

FIG. 5is a schematic diagram of a perspective elevation view of the MDU10with an exemplary fiber optic network412installed therein. The plurality of riser cables14(1),14(2),14(3) each extend from separate, respective FDTs29located on one of the distribution levels24,26,28to the patch panel enclosure20. The fiber optic network412is similar to fiber optic network312shown onFIG. 4, and, therefore, the aspects and/or components of the fiber optic network312described with respect toFIG. 4will not be described again with respect toFIG. 5. Each riser cable14(1),14(2),14(3) pays out from respective payout reels18(1),18(2),18(3). After the necessary length of riser cable14(1),14(2),14(3) is paid out, the payout reel18(1),18(2),18(3) is removably mounted in separate, respective FDTS29located at respective distribution levels24,26,28. The riser cables14(1),14(2),14(3) extend generally in a downward direction from the respective FDTs29located at respective distribution levels24,26,28to the lower level22. In this manner, a separate riser cable14provides optical service to a separate distribution level24,26,28. Each of the riser cables14(1),14(2),14(3) terminates with respective second multi-fiber connectors32(1),32(2),32(3) which are received by and connected to the respective multi-fiber adapter assembly34in the FDT29located at the distribution levels24,26,28. In the patch panel enclosure20, the first multi-fiber connector30(1),30(2),30(3) of each respective riser cable14(1),14(2),14(3) is received by and connects to the multi-fiber adapter assembly34in the patch panel enclosure20. The distribution cable36preconnectorized with a multi-fiber connector38, is received by and connects to the multi-fiber adapter assembly34in the patch panel enclosure20to establish an optical connection between the riser cables14(1),14(2),14(3) and the distribution cable36. The distribution cable36routes to the LCP40.

Referring now toFIG. 6, the portion of the fiber optic networks12,112,212,312,412at the distribution level24,26,28is illustrated. The multi-fiber bundled drop cable44extends from the FDT29at the distribution level24,26,28to drop box46associated with and located at the subscriber premises48. The multi-fiber bundled drop cable44includes multiple fiber optic cables52retained together by one or more helically wrapped external binders54. One or more of the multiple fiber optic cables is separated from the multi-fiber bundled drop cable44by removing the multiple fiber optic cable from the retainage of the one or more external binders. The separated fiber optic cable52may then extend to the subscriber premises48.

FIG. 7is a schematic diagram of an elevation view of an exemplary preconnectorized riser installation assembly56with a plurality of preconnectorized riser cables14(1),14(2),14(3) being extended from respective payout reels18(1),18(2),18(3) located at a lower level22by a leader58with extending features60attached to the leader58at preset locations at a distance “Y” along the length of the leader58. The extending feature60may be any type of loop, hook, swivel, or the like, configured to attach to the second multi-fiber connectors32(1),32(2),32(3), or to some type of pull device attached to the second multi-fiber connectors32(1),32(2),32(3) to provide for safely and effectively paying out the riser cables14(1),14(2),14(3).

FIG. 7Ais a detail view of a pull device assembly62which may be attached to the end of the riser cable14to facilitate extending the riser cable14from the payout reel18. The pull device assembly62attaches to the riser cable14around the second multi-fiber connector32enclosing the second multi-fiber connector32, boot and a portion of the riser cable14. The pull device assembly62has a swivel end64and a body66. The body66may enclose and/or support the second multi-fiber connectors32. The swivel end64is allowed to rotate freely and independently of the body66and, therefore, the second multi-fiber connector32and the riser cable14. The swivel end64comprises a hole through which the extending feature60inserts. As the riser cable14is pulled through the MDU10particularly in conduit using a pull loop68attached to the end of the leader58, and the extending feature60attached to the swivel end64, the swivel end64it is allowed to independently rotate from the rest of the pull device assembly62. This independent rotation eliminates twisting of the riser cable14and the second multi-fiber connector32. In this manner, as the leader58is pulled through the MDU10particularly in conduit, the leader58, the extending feature60and the swivel end64reduce or may eliminate any induce additional torsional stresses on the riser cable14and/or the second multi-fiber connector32.

Referring again toFIG. 7, the distance “Y” is preset to a certain value depending on the distance between adjoining distribution levels24,26,28. As examples, the distance “Y” may be set at 10 feet, 12 feet, 14 feet, 15 feet, and the like. In this manner, as the leader58is pulled through the MDU10, riser cables14(1),14(2),14(3) each pays out to a point that will align, generally, with each respective distribution level24,26,28of the MDU10. Any riser cable14slack due to the presetting of the distance “Y” or otherwise, may be stored on the respective payout reel18(1),18(2),18(3) and/or loosely in an patch panel enclosure20and/or a slack enclosure (not shown inFIG. 7). Additionally, slack may be stored loosely, on the payout reels18(1),18(2),18(3) and/or the FDT29at one or more of the distribution levels24,26,28. Each second multi-fiber connectors32(1),32(2),32(3), may then be connected to the respective multi-fiber adapter assembly34removably mounted in the FDT29located at the respective distribution level24,26,28. Additionally, the first multi-fiber connectors30(1),30(2),30(3) attached to respective riser cables14(1),14(2),14(3) may be connected to the respective multi-fiber adapter assembly34removably mounted in the patch panel enclosure20.

FIG. 8is a flowchart illustrating a method of installing a plurality of preconnectorized riser cables14(1),14(2),14(3), from payout reels18(1),18(2),18(3) located at a lower level22to FDTs29located at upper levels24,26,28according to an exemplary embodiment. The payout reels14(1),14(2),14(3) are positioned in the lower level22(Step1000). Optionally, a pull device assembly62may be attached to the end of each riser cable14(1),14(2),14(3) (Step1002). A leader58with extending features60located at the pre-set distance “Y” along the length of the leader58is provided (Step1004). The extending features60are attached to the end of each riser cable14(1),14(2),14(3), particularly to each pull device assembly62if such is provided (Step1006). A pull rope is attached to the end of the leader58through a pull loop68(Step1008) and, using the pull rope, the leader58is pulled to the distribution levels24,26,28of the MDU10in an ascending order paying out the riser cables14(1),14(2),14(3) from the respective payout reels18(1),18(2),18(3) (Step1010). At each successive distribution level24,26,28in the ascending order, the leader58is accessed and the appropriate riser cable14(1),14(2),14(3) for that distribution level24,26,28is extended. The appropriate riser cable14(1),14(2),14(3) is disconnected from the extending feature60and the second multi-fiber connector32(1),32(2),32(3) to the respective multi-fiber adapter assembly34in the FDT29at the distribution level24,26,28(Step1012). The first multi-fiber connectors30(1),30(2),30(3) may be connected to the multi-fiber adapter assembly34located in the patch panel enclosure20(Step1014). Riser cable14slack may be stored in the FDT29at the distribution level24,26,28and/or in the payout reels18(1),18(2),18(3) (Step1016). The payout reels18(1),18(2),18(3) may be removably mounted in the patch panel enclosure20.

FIG. 9is a schematic diagram of an elevation view of an exemplary preconnectorized riser installation assembly70with a plurality of preconnectorized riser cables14(1),14(2),14(3) being extended from payout reels18(1),18(2),18(3) each located at respective distribution levels24,26,28of the MDU10. The riser cables14(1),14(2),14(3) by a leader58with extending features60attached to the leader58at preset locations at a distance “Z” along the length of the leader58. The extending feature60may be any type of loop, hook, swivel, or the like, configured to attach to the second multi-fiber connectors32(1),32(2),32(3), or to some type of pull device attached to the second multi-fiber connectors32(1),32(2),32(3) to provide for safely and effectively paying out the riser cables14(1),14(2),14(3). The pull device assembly66described with respect toFIG. 7A, above, may be attached to the end of the riser cables14(1),14(2),14(3) to facilitate extending the riser cables14(1),14(2),14(3) from the payout reels18(1),18(2),18(3).

The distance “Z” is preset to a value, as a nonlimiting example, 6 inches, to allow the leader58to be accessed at each succeeding distribution level24,26,28in descending order to attach extending feature60to the particular riser cable14(1),14(2),14(3). In other words, the riser cable14(3) for the highest distribution level28is attached to the leader first. Then the riser cable14(2) for then next lower distribution level26is attached to the leader58. Then the riser cable14(1) for the next lower distribution level24is attached to the leader58. The leader58extends to the lower level22. Any riser cable14slack may be stored on the respective payout reel18(1),18(2),18(3) and/or loosely in the FDT29and/or a slack enclosure (not shown inFIG. 9) at the distribution level24,26,28. Additionally, slack may be stored in the patch panel enclosure20. Each second multi-fiber connectors32(1),32(2),32(3), may then be connected to the respective multi-fiber adapter assembly34removably mounted in the FDT29located at the respective distribution level24,26,28. Additionally, the first multi-fiber connectors30(1),30(2),30(3) attached to respective riser cables14(1),14(2),14(3) may be connected to the respective multi-fiber adapter assembly34removably mounted in the patch panel enclosure20.

FIG. 10is a flowchart illustrating a method of installing a plurality of preconnectorized riser cables14(1),14(2),14(3) from payout reels18(1),18(2),18(3) located at distribution levels24,26,28of MDU10to the patch panel enclosure20, according to an exemplary embodiment. The payout reels14(1),14(2),14(3) are each positioned at respective distribution levels24,26,28(Step2000). Optionally, a pull device assembly62may be attached to the end of each riser cable14(1),14(2),14(3) (Step2002). A leader58with extending features60located at the pre-set distance “Z” along the length of the leader58is provided (Step2004). A pull rope is attached to the pulling loop68at the end of the leader58(Step2006). One of the extending features60, which may be the first extending feature60closest to the pulling loop68is attached to the riser cable14(3) from the payout reel18(3) located at the highest distribution level28in the MDU10(Step2008). The leader58is extended to the next succeeding distribution level26,24in descending order (Step2010). At the next succeeding distribution level26,24, the leader58is accessed and the next extending feature60is attached to the end of that riser cable14(2),14(3) (Step2012). The leader58is extended to all of the distribution levels and the riser cable attached in the same manner. The leader58is extended to the lower level22(Step2014). The riser cables14(1),14(2),14(3) are disconnected from the leader58and each first multi-fiber connector30(1),30(2),30(3) is connected to the multi-fiber adapter assembly34in the patch panel20enclosure (Step2016). Each second multi-fiber connector32(1),32(2),32(3) is connected to respective multi-fiber adapter assemblies34in the FDT29located at the distribution levels24,26,28(Step2018). Riser cable14slack may be stored in the FDT29at the distribution level24,26,28and/or in the payout reels18(1),18(2),18(3) (Step2020). The payout reels18(1),18(2),18(3) may be removably mounted in the FDT29. Slack may also be stored in the patch panel enclosure20.

FIG. 11is a schematic diagram of a front, perspective view of an exemplary LCP40for use with a fiber optic network in a MDU10. The LCP40comprises an enclosure72with a door74hingedly attached to the enclosure72. The door74closes to restrict and/or prohibit access to the interior76of the enclosure72and the components mounted therein, and opens to allow access to the interior76and the components mounted therein. A swingable adapter panel78mounts in the interior76. The adapter panel78has a first side80(not visible inFIG. 11) and a second side82to provide connections of optical fibers83between a feeder side and a distribution side. Pivot points96positioned at the top and bottom of the interior76allow the adapter panel to swing to provide access to the first side80or the second side82depending on the positioning of the adapter panel78. Additionally, the adapter panel is lockable in one or more positions. The adapter panel78splits the interior76into a first section84and a second section86. The LCP40is flexible such that either or both the first section84or the second section86can be configured to support feeder side optical fiber83management and/or connections, and/or distribution side optical fiber83management and/or connections.

The adapter panel78has a connection field88that supports fiber optic adapters and connections, as well as pass-through adapters and connections. InFIG. 11, the feeder cable42is shown as entering the LCP40at the bottom into the first section84and connecting to splice trays92. A continuing section42(1) of the feeder cable42extends from the bottom of the second side86to further provide optical connection from the service provider to other areas of the MDU10and/or to other MDU's and/or facilities. The distribution cable36extends from the top of the first section84. The distribution cable36optically connects to one or more riser cables14, which may be through a multi-fiber adapter assembly34in a patch panel housing20. One or more splitters94may also be mounted in the LCP40to split the optical signal carried by the feeder cable42into multiple optical signals for distribution. Fiber routing guides98and fiber management guides100may also be mounted in the first section84and/or the second section86.

FIGS. 11A, 11B and 11Care schematic diagrams of front, perspective, exploded views of the LCP40illustrating interior panels102(1),102(2),102(3) which may be used in the LCP40. The interior panels102(1),102(2),102(3) are interchangeable and allow the LCP40enclosure72to be easily reconfigured at the factory or in the field. This allows the enclosure72to be configured and reconfigured to support multiple applications and changing subscriber situations. In this manner, the interior panels102(1),102(2),102(3) can support, without limitation, fiber splicing, multiple splitter form factors, cable entries and other various modifications or arrangements of the LCP40. Additionally, the interior panels102(1),102(2),102(3) can be installed on the either the first section84or second section86of the interior76using any type of fasteners104, such as, without limitation, screws, latches and the like allowing for removable attachment.

In this regard,FIG. 11Aillustrates an interior panel102(1) removably mountable to the enclosure72in the interior76in the first section84configured to support optical fiber splicing having splice trays92and optical fiber management guides100.FIG. 11Billustrates an interior panel102(2) removably mountable to the enclosure72in the interior76in the second section86configured to support optical fiber splitting having splitters94and optical fiber management guides100.FIG. 11Cillustrates an interior panel102(2) removably mountable to the enclosure72in the interior76in the second section86configured to support optical fiber splicing having splice trays92and optical fiber management guides100. Similarly, although not shown, an interior panel102removably mountable to the enclosure72in the interior76in the first section84may be configured to support optical fiber splitting having splitters94and optical fiber management guides100. Additionally or alternatively, the interior panels102may be configured to support any type of function or component, as examples, without limitation, furcation devices, ribbon fan-out bodies, wave division multiplexing, coarse wave division multiplexing and others.

The LCP40provides for a smaller form factor while allow a high density of optical fiber connections for distribution of optical service to the MDU10. Additionally, the LCP40allows for various options for feeder and distribution cables and of multiple splitters including, without limitation, at least five 1×32 splitters. The LCP40can also function as a demarcation point providing 1×1 input to output connections.

FIG. 12is a schematic diagram of front, elevation views of an exemplary transition box20with a multi-fiber adapter assembly34and multiple payout reels18removably mounted therein. The transition box20has a door104hingedly attached thereto. The door104closes to restrict and/or prohibit access to the interior106of the patch panel enclosure20and the components mounted therein, and opens to allow access to the interior106and the components mounted therein. InFIG. 12, a multi-fiber adapter assembly34and multiple payout reels18(1),18(2),18(3),18(4), are shown mounted in the interior106. The riser cables14(1),14(2),14(2),14(2) are shown as having been paid out from the payout reels18(1),18(2),18(3),18(4) which are now being used to store riser cable14(1),14(2),14(2),14(2) slack. The payout reels18(1),18(2),18(3),18(4) are shown as being collapsible being collapsed to a smaller form factor allowing for storing in the transition box20. The first multi-fiber connectors30(1),30(2),30(3),30(4) route and connect to one side of the with the multi-fiber adapter assembly34. The distribution cable36connects to the other end of the multi-fiber adapter assembly34and extends from the bottom of the transition box20. Mounting holes108allow the transition box20to be wall mounted, rack mounted, or any type of mounting.

FIG. 13is a schematic diagram of a front, perspective view of a FDT129having a payout reel18and an adapter module assembly110with an adapter module112and a multi-fiber adapter assembly34removably mounted therein. In the embodiment depicted inFIG. 13, the FDT129is configured to be mounted in-line with and supported by conduit113carrying the riser cable14and may be mounted at one or more distribution levels24,26,28. The FDT129has an enclosure114with a door116hingedly attached thereto. The door116closes to restrict and/or prohibit access to the interior118of the FDT129and the components mounted therein, and opens to allow access to the interior118and the components mounted therein. InFIG. 13, the adapter module assembly110is shown mounted to the door116in the interior118. The adapter module assembly110comprises a connector panel120to which the adapter module112and the multi-fiber adapter assembly34attach. The multi-fiber adapter assembly34has multi-fiber adapters120. Additionally, the adapter module112has a multi-fiber adapter122and multiple single fiber adapters124. In this manner, the adapter module assembly110can receive and connect the riser cable14to drop cables44extending to subscriber premises48located on the distribution levels24,26,28.

Routing guides126to route and manage fiber optic cables mount to the door116in the interior118in addition to the adapter module assembly110. The door116has a flange128having a tool lock mechanism130and a pad lock hole132. A flange134on the enclosure114has a tool lock receiver136and pad lock hole138, which mate with the tool lock mechanism130and a pad lock hole132when the door116is closed to provide for locking the FDT129. The riser cable14is shown as having been paid out from the payout reel18which is now being used to store riser cable14slack. The payout reel18is shown as being collapsible being collapsed to a smaller form factor allowing for storing in the FDT129.

FIG. 14is a schematic diagram of a front, perspective view of an exemplary FDT229having a payout reel18removably mounted therein and an adapter module assembly210pivotably mounted therein. The FDT229has an enclosure214with a door216hingedly attached thereto, and may be located at one or more distribution levels24,26,28. The door216closes to restrict and/or prohibit access to the interior218of the FDT229and the components mounted therein, and opens to allow access to the interior218and the components mounted therein. The adapter module assembly210has a cradle136adapted to removably hold one or more adapter modules112. The cradle136has a slack storage area138for storing the slack of drop cables44extending to subscriber premises48located at the distribution level24,26,28. A routing guide240connecting to and extending from the cradle provides for drop cable44routing and management in the FDT229. One or more mounting ears142extend from the enclosure214allowing the enclosure214to be mounted to a wall, for example in a closet, at the distribution level24,26,28. The door216has a flange228having a tool lock mechanism130and a pad lock hole132. A flange234on the enclosure214has a tool lock receiver136and pad lock hole138, which mate with the tool lock mechanism130and a pad lock hole132when the door116is closed to provide for locking the FDT229. The riser cable14is shown as having been paid out from the payout reel18which is now being used to store riser cable14slack. The payout reel18is shown as being collapsible being collapsed to a smaller form factor allowing for storing in the FDT229.

FIG. 15is a schematic diagram of the front, perspective view of the FDT229with the adapter module assembly210pivoted to an open position. The adapter module assembly210has a pivot assembly144connected to the bottom of the enclosure214. InFIG. 15, the pivot assembly144is illustrated as a cradle bracket146and a cradle hinge148. However, the pivot assembly144can be any mechanical or structural design that allows the adapter module assembly210to pivot. Sealing feature150allows the riser cable14and drop cables44to enter the enclosure214while maintaining the FDT229in an environmentally sealed condition. One or more strain relief brackets152provide strain relief for the riser cable14and drop cables44in the FDT229.

FIGS. 16 and 17illustrate a transition box230with a chamber wall232that divides the interior of the transition box into a dry chamber234and a wet chamber236. Fiber optic cable, such as riser cable14, may enters the transition box230in the wet chamber236. The riser cable14may be front loaded into slot238. A slotted foam seal240may be provided in the slot238. While the seal240provides protection against foreign particle entry, it may not provide a water tight seal. The riser cable14is forms into a drip loop240in the wet chamber such that any water entering the transition box230is restricted to the wet chamber236. The riser cable14extends to optical components, for example, connectors30, adapters assembly34and cable reels18mounted in the dry chamber234.

Many modifications and other embodiments set forth herein will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which the embodiments pertain having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. Therefore, it is to be understood that the description and claims are not to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. It is intended that the embodiments cover the modifications and variations of the embodiments provided they come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.