Features for cable managers and other electronic equipment structures

A cable manager includes a backbone assembly and at least one side wall extending from the backbone assembly. The at least one side wall optionally includes one or more cable finger units. The backbone assembly includes a spine member having an extruded construction. The spine member includes one or more channels extending substantially an entire length thereof to facilitate easy attachment, removal and/or repositioning of a structure relative to the spine member. The cable manager optionally includes an accessory rod, a half-spool assembly, a cable finger accessory, a strap/buckle accessory, and/or a door assembly having an interference-free hinge set.

COPYRIGHT STATEMENT

BACKGROUND OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

Field of the Present Invention

The present invention relates generally to cable managers and related electronic equipment structures, and, in particular, to flexible construction, cable accessories, and doors.

Background

Current and prior cable manager designs generally utilize a U-shaped chassis to which the peripheral parts of the frame are welded, riveted or otherwise attached. The chassis and other parts are usually constructed of sheet metal or injection-molded plastic with discrete patterns for attaching parts and accessories.

Current design methods use sheet metal, wire mesh or plastic parts to provide features for managing and/or supporting cabling and other cabling equipment or for attaching accessories that perform this function. Unfortunately, these features are generally provided in discrete patterns that limit the adjustability and flexibility often desired when managing cabling and other equipment within the manager. Using the features and accessories usually requires hardware and tools for installation, adjustment and/or removal. The chassis construction also makes it difficult to provide gentle cable entry and exit into the manager (i.e., for maintaining bend radii and proper support).

With regard to cable management accessories, current and prior cable manager designs generally utilize a sheet metal frame, sheet metal panel or bracket, or wire mesh with a grid pattern or other type of feature pattern. As a result, accessories are usually installed using hardware and tools and are only adjustable in incremental amounts along a pattern of features or holes within the frame or attachment surface, if at all. Some accessories do have toolless installation methods but are still limited in their application and installation location. Furthermore, much of the space in and around the manager is also wasted as accessories cannot be configured or installed to reach the entire space within the manager.

With regard to doors, particularly for cable managers, it is well known to provide doors that feature hinges at both left and right sides. However, conventional designs generally allow the door to swing on a single bearing surface. Unfortunately, doors that simply swing on a pivot point often sag. When such a door is closed, the bottom edges/surfaces of the door and/or hinge area often make contact with the door frame. As a result, such a door must be pushed, with some effort, back into its closed state. Some door designs address this issue with a ramp-style feature (usually made of plastic or sheet metal) to compensate for sag of the door, which may allow the door to be in an appropriate position for the latch mechanism to engage. However, known door designs maintain a certain level of interference and drag along the bottom of the door as it closes, regardless of whether they must be pushed into place by the user or ramped up into position. In such designs, the bottom of the door or hinge area drags or slides along the frame and creates a frictional force opposite the desired direction of motion.

For the foregoing reasons and/or other reasons, improvements in cable manager structures, accessories, and doors are needed.

SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

Some exemplary embodiments of the present invention may overcome one or more of the above disadvantages and other disadvantages not described above, but the present invention is not required to overcome any particular disadvantage described above, and some exemplary embodiments of the present invention may not overcome any of the disadvantages described above.

Broadly defined, the present invention according to one aspect is a cable manager frame design that increases flexibility, modularity and efficient use of the cable manager frame and space through the use of a track system.

Broadly defined, the present invention according to another aspect is a cable manager frame and accessory system design that allows easy installation, adjustment and removal of the accessories within a highly flexible and configurable space within and around the manager.

Broadly defined, the present invention according to another aspect is a door hinge set for cable managers, IT cabinets, and other enclosures that allows the door to open both left and right in the same manner and removes interference as the door closes to allow it to open and close smoothly and without drag or interference.

Broadly defined, the present invention according to another aspect is a cable manager. The cable manager includes a backbone assembly and at least one side wall extending from the backbone assembly. The at least one side wall optionally includes one or more cable finger units. The backbone assembly includes a spine member having an extruded construction. The spine member includes one or more channels extending substantially an entire length thereof to facilitate easy attachment, removal and/or repositioning of a structure relative to the spine member.

In a feature of this aspect, the backbone assembly may include a pair of lateral members, each having an extruded construction, to which the spine member is interconnected via a mounting bracket. In a further feature of this aspect, adjustment of a position of the spine member relative to the lateral members may be infinite along a length of the lateral members.

In another feature of this aspect, the structure may be an accessory rod that extends transversely away from the spine member. In further features of this aspect, the accessory rod may be part of an accessory rod assembly that includes a knob member threaded through a base member, wherein tightening of the knob member secures the accessory rod relative to the spine member; the accessory rod may be part of an accessory rod assembly that includes a cam mechanism for securing the accessory rod relative to the spine member; the accessory rod may have an extruded construction; the cable manager may further include at least one half-spool accessory, securable to the accessory rod or another structure via a snap mechanism, for routing and/or arranging cables relative to the cable manager; and/or the cable manager may further include at least one cable finger accessory, securable to the accessory rod or another structure via a cam and latch mechanism, for routing and/or arranging cables relative to the cable manager.

In another feature of this aspect, the cable manager may further include at least one strap/buckle accessory that includes a flexible strap for bundling cables, a buckle for accommodating the flexible strap and a buckle support that is securable within a channel of the spine member or another structure having an extruded construction. In a further feature of this aspect, the buckle may be rotatable.

In another feature of this aspect, the cable manager may further include a door assembly, wherein: the at least one side wall is a first side wall; a second side wall is disposed at an opposite end of the backbone assembly and extends from the backbone assembly in the same direction as the first side wall; the door assembly includes a door panel and a hinge set, at each side of the door panel, that hingedly secures the door panel to distal ends of the first and second side walls; and each hinge set includes a corresponding latch assembly that facilitates interference-free opening and closing of the door panel at either side. In a further feature of this aspect, the door assembly may be mounted between support arms disposed at upper and lower ends of each of the first and second side walls. In a further feature of this aspect, each latch assembly may include a latch, a gear mechanism, and a retractable bolt operationally connected to the gear mechanism, such that rotation of the latch retracts the bolt within a hinge body of the corresponding hinge set, thereby permitting the door panel to be opened. In a further features of this aspect, at the mounted side of the door assembly as the door panel is opened, a lifter disk disposed in the lower support arm may operate in conjunction with a torsion spring to interface with the hinge set at the mounted side of the door assembly, thereby facilitating interference-free opening and closing of the door panel. In a further feature of this aspect, as the door panel is opened, a hinge body of the hinge set at the mounted side of the door assembly is forced upward along a lifting ramp of the lifter disk until reaching a bearing surface, at which point the door panel is able to freely rotate. In a further feature of this aspect, as the door panel is closed, the hinge body may engage the lifter disk, causing the lifter disk to rotate with rotation of the door panel and against a bias in the corresponding torsion spring, thereby maintaining the door panel in a lifted state and facilitating interference-free closing of the door panel.

Broadly defined, the present invention according to another aspect is a cable manager substantially as shown and described.

Broadly defined, the present invention according to another aspect is an accessory rod, for installation within a cable manager, substantially as shown and described.

Broadly defined, the present invention according to another aspect is a half-spool accessory, for installation within a cable manager, substantially as shown and described.

Broadly defined, the present invention according to another aspect is a cable finger accessory, for installation within a cable manager, substantially as shown and described.

Broadly defined, the present invention according to another aspect is a strap/buckle accessory, for installation within a cable manager, substantially as shown and described.

Broadly defined, the present invention according to another aspect is a cable manager frame and accessory system substantially as shown and described.

Broadly defined, the present invention according to another aspect is a door hinge set substantially as shown and described.

Broadly defined, the present invention according to another aspect is a method of assembling and/or using a cable frame and accessory system substantially as shown and described.

Broadly defined, the present invention according to another aspect is a cable manager and accessory system. The cable manager and accessory system includes a backbone assembly, upper and lower support arms extending forwardly from the backbone assembly, and at least one side wall interconnected between the upper and lower support arms. The at least one side wall includes one or more cable finger units. The backbone assembly includes a spine member, having an extruded construction and a generally uniform cross-sectional shape. The spine member includes one or more channels extending along a length thereof to facilitate attachment, removal and/or repositioning of a structure relative to the spine member.

In a feature of this aspect, the spine member includes at least one curved surface to provide a bend radius for cables.

In another feature of this aspect, the backbone assembly further includes a lateral member, having an extruded construction and a generally uniform cross-sectional shape, to which the spine member is connected.

In another feature of this aspect, adjustment of a position of the spine member relative to the lateral member is infinite along a length of the lateral member.

In another feature of this aspect, each of the spine member and the lateral member utilize the same extruded construction such that the cross-sectional shape of the spine member is the same as the cross-sectional shape of the lateral member, and the lateral member includes one or more channels extending along a length thereof.

In another feature of this aspect, the one or more channels of each of the spine member and the lateral member include at least one T-slot channel capable of receiving a head of a fastener and at least one screw-in channel capable of receiving a screw-in fastener.

In another feature of this aspect, the lateral member is connected to an end of the spine member via a mounting bracket.

In another feature of this aspect, the mounting bracket includes a raised lip for alignment of the lateral member relative to the spine member.

In another feature of this aspect, a first fastener extends through a first aperture of the mounting bracket and is received longitudinally within the at least one screw-in channel of the spine member, and a second fastener extends through a second aperture of the mounting bracket and is received within the at least one T-slot channel of the lateral member.

In another feature of this aspect, the second fastener is braced within the T-slot channel of the lateral member with a spring nut seated within the T-slot channel.

In another feature of this aspect, the lateral member is a first lateral member arranged at a top of the spine member, the backbone assembly further includes a second lateral member arranged at a bottom of the spine member, the spine member is interconnected between the first and second lateral members, and adjustment of a position of the spine member relative to the first and second lateral members is infinite along lengths of the first and second lateral members.

In another feature of this aspect, the structure includes an accessory rod assembly having an accessory rod that extends transversely away from the spine member.

In another feature of this aspect, adjustment of a position of the accessory rod assembly relative to the spine member is infinite along a length of the spine member.

In another feature of this aspect, the accessory rod assembly includes a base member having at least one hook for placement against a ledge of one of the one or more channels of the spine member.

In another feature of this aspect, the accessory rod assembly further includes a rotatable knob having a threaded shaft that is received within a threaded portion of the base member, rotation of the rotatable knob in a selected direction positions a distal end of the threaded shaft against a wall of one of the one or more channels of the spine member, and positioning of the distal end of the threaded shaft against the wall, together with placement of the at least one hook against the ledge, clamps the accessory rod assembly to the spine member.

In another feature of this aspect, the accessory rod assembly further includes a rotatable cam lever mounted to the base member and having a toothed cam, rotation of the rotatable cam lever in a selected direction positions the toothed cam against a wall of one of the one or more channels of the spine member, and positioning of the toothed cam against the wall, together with placement of the at least one hook against the ledge, clamps the accessory rod assembly to the spine member.

In another feature of this aspect, the accessory rod has an extruded construction and a generally uniform cross-sectional shape, and the accessory rod includes one or more channels extending along a length thereof.

In another feature of this aspect, the cable manager and accessory system further includes at least one half-spool accessory mounted on the accessory rod for routing and/or arranging cables.

In another feature of this aspect, adjustment of a position of the at least one half-spool accessory relative to the accessory rod is infinite along a length of the accessory rod.

In another feature of this aspect, the at least one half-spool accessory includes a plurality of resilient snaps for retaining the at least one half-spool accessory on the accessory rod.

In another feature of this aspect, each resilient snap is engaged with a ledge of one of the one or more channels of the accessory rod.

In another feature of this aspect, the at least one half-spool accessory includes a curved central portion to provide a bend radius for cables.

In another feature of this aspect, the at least one half-spool accessory includes one or more end flanges for retaining cables against the curved central portion.

In another feature of this aspect, the at least one half-spool accessory includes one or more standoffs for positioning the at least one half-spool accessory against the accessory rod.

In another feature of this aspect, the at least one half-spool accessory is a first half-spool accessory mounted to an upper side of the accessory rod, the cable manager further includes a second half-spool accessory mounted to a lower side of the accessory rod, and the first and second half-spool accessories together define a generally cylindrical spool shape.

In another feature of this aspect, the one or more channels of the accessory rod include at least one T-slot channel for accommodating the head of a fastener to facilitate attachment of a separate structure to the accessory rod.

In another feature of this aspect, the one or more channels of the accessory rod include at least one screw-in channel.

In another feature of this aspect, the at least one screw-in channel is an extension of the at least one T-slot channel.

In another feature of this aspect, the one or more channels of the accessory rod include at least one grip channel.

In another feature of this aspect, the cable manager and accessory system further includes at least one cable finger accessory secured to the accessory rod for routing cables and/or accommodating other accessories.

In another feature of this aspect, the at least one cable finger accessory includes first and second clamp sections connected to one another via a first hinge and permitted to rotate relative to one another, a cable finger extending from at least one of the clamp sections, and a clamp mechanism that couples distal ends of the pair of clamp sections together around a section of the accessory rod, thereby clamping the at least one cable finger accessory to the accessory rod and arranging the at least one cable finger accessory in an installed configuration.

In another feature of this aspect, the clamp mechanism includes a cam lever link connected to the distal end of one of the first and second clamp sections via a second hinge, a cam lever connected to a distal end of the cam lever link via a third hinge, the cam lever having a cam structure at a proximal end thereof, and a cam trough extending from the distal end of the other of the first and second clamp sections.

In another feature of this aspect, in the installed configuration, the cam structure is received within the cam trough, and the cam lever is seated against the clamp section from which the cam trough extends.

In another feature of this aspect, the cam trough includes a notch for receiving the cam lever link when the at least one cable finger accessory is in the installed configuration.

In another feature of this aspect, in the installed configuration, a male snap structure extending from the cam lever is received within a female snap receptacle of the clamp section from which the cam trough extends.

In another feature of this aspect, one or both of the clamp sections include at least one locating rib that engages the accessory rod.

In another feature of this aspect, in the installed configuration, the at least one locating rib is seated in the at least one grip channel of the accessory rod to prevent free rotation of the at least one cable finger accessory.

In another feature of this aspect, the at least one cable finger accessory is rotatable to different positions on the accessory rod.

In another feature of this aspect, the cable finger includes one or more openings to accommodate a cable strap/buckle accessory.

In another feature of this aspect, a distal end of the cable finger includes an overhang to retain routed cables.

In another feature of this aspect, the cable manager and accessory system further includes a cable strap/buckle accessory, secured to one of the spine member or the lateral member, for bundling and/or retaining cables.

In another feature of this aspect, the cable strap/buckle accessory includes a buckle that is rotatably paired with a buckle support.

In another feature of this aspect, the buckle is rotatable relative to the buckle support in either a clockwise direction or a counterclockwise direction.

In another feature of this aspect, the cable strap/buckle accessory further includes a strap slidably engaged with the buckle.

In another feature of this aspect, ends of the strap are securable to one another with hook-and-loop fasteners.

In another feature of this aspect, the buckle includes a generally round socket, the buckle support may include a generally round snap, and the generally round snap is received within the socket by snap-fit to secure the buckle to the buckle support.

In another feature of this aspect, the snap is a split snap having at least a pair of snap sections that are deflectable toward one another to facilitate receipt of the split snap within the socket.

In another feature of this aspect, the buckle includes at least one arcuate boss that is generally coaxial with the generally round socket, the buckle support includes a trough that is generally coaxial with the generally round snap, when the buckle is secured to the buckle support, the at least one arcuate boss is received within the trough, and the at least one arcuate boss is slidable within the trough to facilitate rotation of the buckle relative to the buckle support.

In another feature of this aspect, the buckle support includes a mounting boss that is received within one of the one or more channels of the spine member or the lateral member.

In another feature of this aspect, the mounting boss is received within a T-slot channel and is rotated such that the mounting boss is blocked from passage through the T-slot channel, thereby securing the cable strap/buckle accessory to the backbone assembly.

In another feature of this aspect, the mounting boss includes a generally rectangular shape having two rounded corners disposed opposite from one another and two generally right-angle corners disposed opposite from one another, the rounded corners facilitate rotation of the mounting boss within the T-slot channel by approximately 90 degrees to a locked configuration, and the generally right-angle corners prevent rotation of the mounting boss within the T-slot channel beyond approximately 90 degrees to help retain the mounting boss in the locked configuration.

Broadly defined, the present invention according to another aspect is an accessory rod assembly for use in connection with a cable manager. The accessory rod assembly includes a base member and an accessory rod secured to and extending from the base member. The accessory rod has an extruded construction and a generally uniform cross-sectional shape along a length thereof. The base member is mountable to an extruded support member of the cable manager, and adjustment of a position of the base member relative to the extruded support member is infinite along a length of the extruded support member.

In a feature of this aspect, the base member includes at least one hook for placement against a ledge of a channel of the extruded support member, the base member further includes a rotatable knob having a threaded shaft that is received within a corresponding threaded portion, and the base member is securable to the extruded support member by rotation of the rotatable knob in a selected direction to position a distal end of the threaded shaft against a wall of the same or a different channel of the extruded support member, thereby clamping a portion of the extruded support member between the hook and the distal end of the threaded shaft.

In another feature of this aspect, the base member includes at least one hook for placement against a ledge of a channel of the extruded support member, the base member further includes a rotatable cam lever having a toothed cam, and the base member is securable to the extruded support member by rotation of the rotatable cam lever in a selected direction so as to position the toothed cam against a wall of the same or a different channel of the extruded support member, thereby clamping a portion of the extruded support member between the hook and the toothed cam.

In another feature of this aspect, the accessory rod includes one or more channels extending along a length thereof.

In another feature of this aspect, the one or more channels of the accessory rod include at least one T-slot channel for accommodating the head of a fastener to facilitate attachment of a separate structure to the accessory rod.

In another feature of this aspect, the one or more channels of the accessory rod include at least one screw-in channel.

In another feature of this aspect, the at least one screw-in channel is an extension of the at least one T-slot channel.

In another feature of this aspect, the one or more channels include at least one grip channel.

In another feature of this aspect, the accessory rod assembly further includes an end cap disposed at a distal end of the accessory rod.

Broadly defined, the present invention according to another aspect is a half-spool accessory for use in for routing and/or arranging cables in a cable manager. The half-spool accessory includes a curved support portion to provide a bend radius for cables, front and rear end flanges disposed at opposite ends of the curved support portion, and a plurality of resilient snaps extending downwardly from the curved support portion for retaining the half-spool accessory in a mounted configuration relative to an extruded support member of the cable manager.

In a feature of this aspect, each resilient snap is engaged with a ledge of a channel of the extruded support member that extends along a length thereof.

In another feature of this aspect, a position of the half-spool accessory relative to the extruded support member is infinitely adjustable along the length of the extruded support member.

In another feature of this aspect, the half-spool accessory further includes one or more standoffs extending downwardly from the curved support portion for positioning the half-spool accessory against the extruded support member.

In another feature of this aspect, the one or more standoffs each include a curved edge that interfaces with a corresponding curved surface of the extruded support member.

In another feature of this aspect, the curved support portion includes one or more notches along side edges thereof to provide finger grips for gripping the half-spool accessory.

Broadly defined, the present invention according to another aspect is a cable finger accessory for use in routing cables and/or accommodating other accessories in a cable manager. The cable finger accessory includes first and second clamp sections connected to one another via a first hinge and permitted to rotate relative to one another, a cable finger extending from at least one of the clamp sections, a cam lever link connected to the distal end of one of the first and second clamp sections via a second hinge, a cam lever connected to a distal end of the cam lever link via a third hinge, the cam lever having a cam structure at a proximal end thereof, and a cam trough extending from the distal end of the other of the first and second clamp sections. In an installed configuration, the pair of clamp sections is arranged around a section of an extruded support member of the cable manager, the cam structure is received within the cam trough, and the cam lever is seated against the clamp section from which the cam trough extends, thereby clamping the cable finger accessory to the extruded support member.

In a feature of this aspect, the cam trough includes a notch for receiving the cam lever link when the cable finger accessory is in the installed configuration.

In another feature of this aspect, in the installed configuration, a male snap structure extending from the cam lever is received within a female snap receptacle of the clamp section from which the cam trough extends.

In another feature of this aspect, one or both of the clamp sections include at least one locating rib that engages the extruded support member.

In another feature of this aspect, in the installed configuration, the at least one locating rib is seated in a channel of the extruded support member to prevent free rotation of the at least one cable finger accessory.

In another feature of this aspect, the cable finger includes one or more openings to accommodate a cable strap/buckle accessory.

In another feature of this aspect, a distal end of the cable finger includes an overhang to retain routed cables.

Broadly defined, the present invention according to another aspect is a cable strap/buckle accessory for bundling and/or retaining cables in a cable manager. The cable strap/buckle accessory includes a buckle having a generally round socket, a buckle support having a generally round snap, and a strap slidably engaged with the buckle for bundling a plurality of cables. The generally round snap is received within the socket by snap-fit to secure the buckle to the buckle support.

In a feature of this aspect, the buckle is rotatably paired with the buckle support.

In another feature of this aspect, the buckle is rotatable relative to the buckle support in either a clockwise direction or a counterclockwise direction.

In another feature of this aspect, ends of the strap are securable to one another with hook-and-loop fasteners.

In another feature of this aspect, the snap is a split snap having at least a pair of snap sections that are deflectable toward one another to facilitate receipt of the split snap within the socket.

In another feature of this aspect, the buckle includes at least one arcuate boss that is generally coaxial with the generally round socket, the buckle support includes a trough that is generally coaxial with the generally round snap, when the buckle is secured to the buckle support, the at least one arcuate boss is received within the trough, and the at least one arcuate boss is slidable within the trough to facilitate rotation of the buckle relative to the buckle support.

In another feature of this aspect, the buckle support includes a mounting boss that is receivable within a T-slot channel of an extruded support member of the cable manager.

In another feature of this aspect, the mounting boss is rotatable within the T-slot channel to facilitate the mounting boss being blocked from passage through the T-slot channel, thereby securing the cable strap/buckle accessory to the extruded support member.

In another feature of this aspect, the mounting boss includes a generally rectangular shape having two rounded corners disposed opposite from one another and two generally right-angle corners disposed opposite from one another, the rounded corners facilitate rotation of the mounting boss within the T-slot channel by approximately 90 degrees to a locked configuration, and the generally right-angle corners prevent rotation of the mounting boss within the T-slot channel beyond approximately 90 degrees to help retain the mounting boss in the locked configuration.

Broadly defined, the present invention according to another aspect is an extruded support member for implementation in a cable manager. The extruded support member includes an elongate body having a hollow interior and defining a plurality of channels extending along its length. The plurality of channels include a pair of screw-in channels that extend into the hollow interior of the elongate body at opposite sides thereof and a pair of T-slot channels extending away from opposed side walls of the elongate body. Each screw-in channel is sized and shaped to accommodate a threaded fastener received longitudinally at an end of the elongate body. Each T-slot channel is sized and shaped to receive and retain a boss of a separate fastener.

In a feature of this aspect, opposed sides of the elongate body are curved to provide a bend radius for cables.

In another feature of this aspect, the elongate body has a generally uniform cross-sectional shape along its length.

In another feature of this aspect, one or more ledges extend from side walls of the elongate body for aligning with and/or accommodating additional fasteners.

Broadly defined, the present invention according to another aspect is an extruded support member for implementation in a cable manager. The extruded support member includes an at least partially cylindrical elongate body that defines a pair of T-slot channels arranged at opposite sides thereof that extend along a length of the at least partially cylindrical elongate body and a pair of screw-in channels that extend along the length of the at least partially cylindrical elongate body. Each T-slot channel is sized and shaped to receive and retain a boss of a separate fastener. Each of the pair of screw-in channels is an extension of a respective one of the pair of T-slot channels, and each of the pair of screw-in channels is sized and shaped to accommodate a threaded fastener received longitudinally at an end of the at least partially cylindrical elongate body.

In a feature of this aspect, outward-facing sides of the at least partially cylindrical elongate body each include a plurality of grip channels for accommodating a separate structure snap-fit thereto.

In another feature of this aspect, the at least partially cylindrical elongate body has a generally uniform cross-sectional shape along its length.

Broadly defined, the present invention according to another aspect includes an IT enclosure with an easy-close door having a left side and a right side, including: a back assembly; a left side wall extending forward from the back assembly; a right side wall extending forward from the back assembly; a top left door support and a bottom left door support at a top front and a bottom front, respectively, of the left side wall; a top right door support and a bottom right door support at a top front and a bottom front, respectively, of the right side wall; a bottom cross member extending between the bottom left and right door supports; and a door assembly, including a door panel having a bottom edge, that is hingedly mounted between the top and bottom support members on the left side so as to rotate relative thereto, and that is hingedly mounted between the top and bottom support members on the right side so as to rotate relative thereto, wherein (1) the door assembly is mounted to the top support member on each respective side using a first hinge assembly and a first hinge mount, (2) the door assembly is mounted to the bottom support member on each respective side using a second hinge assembly and a second hinge mount, and (3) the first hinge mounts, the second hinge mounts, or both each include a lift-and-hold mechanism, and each corresponding hinge assembly includes a corresponding bearing structure; wherein (1) in a first state, which is a closed state, the door panel is closed along both the left and right sides thereof, the bottom edge of the door panel is in close proximity to the bottom cross member all the way across between the left and right sides, and the bottom edge of the door panel is at a first elevation, (2) in a second state, which is a first partially open state, the door panel has been opened along the left side or the right side and has been rotated to a point that engagement of the bearing structure with the lift-and-hold mechanism causes the door panel to be raised gradually as the door panel is rotated further open, thereby elevating the bottom edge of the door panel above the bottom cross member, (3) in a third state, which is a second partially open state, the door panel has been further opened, relative to the first partially open state, such that during further rotation the bottom edge of the door panel is held at a fixed elevated position above the bottom cross member, and (4) in a fourth state, which is a door closing state, the lift-and-hold mechanism interacts with the bearing structure to maintain the elevation of the bottom edge of the door panel above the bottom cross member during rotation of the door panel from the second partially open state back to the closed state, thereby avoiding interference between the bottom edge of the door panel and the bottom cross member.

In a feature of this aspect, the lift-and-hold mechanism includes a lifter disk that rotates about the axis of rotation of the door panel. In further features, the lifter disk is carried in a door support; the lifter disk is disposed in a lifter nest in an end of the door support; the lifter disk is carried in the door assembly; the lifter disk includes a lifting ramp that engages with the bearing structure to gradually raise the door panel as the door panel is being opened; the lifting ramp is a first lifting ramp, wherein the bearing structure includes a second lifting ramp, and wherein the first lifting ramp engages with the second lifting ramp to gradually raise the door panel as the door panel is being opened; the lifter disk further includes a first bearing surface and a second bearing surface, wherein the first and second bearing surfaces are at different elevations, wherein engagement of the bearing structure with the first bearing surface holds the bottom edge of the door panel at a lower elevation, and wherein engagement of the bearing structure with the second bearing surface maintains the elevation of the bottom edge of the door panel above the bottom cross member; and/or the lifter disk further includes a first engagement tooth, wherein the bearing structure further includes a second engagement tooth, and wherein engagement between the first and second engagement teeth causes the lifting disk to rotate with rotation of the door panel while the door panel is being closed, thereby maintaining the elevation of the bottom edge of the door panel above the bottom cross member.

In another feature of this aspect, the IT enclosure is implemented as a cable manager. In further features, the side walls include side wall finger units to provide routing options for cables; the door supports are integrated into the side wall finger units; and/or the door supports are integrated into support arms.

In another feature of this aspect, the IT enclosure is implemented as a cabinet.

In another feature of this aspect, each combination of a hinge assembly and a hinge mount implements a latch assembly. In a further feature, each latch assembly includes a spring-loaded structure that is temporarily pushed aside by closure of the door panel and returns to a previous position to the hold the door panel closed.

Broadly defined, the present invention according to another aspect includes a method of installing or arranging one or more cable management accessories in a cable manager. The method includes providing a cable manager having a backbone assembly constructed from a spine member and at least one lateral member, each of which has a generally uniform cross-sectional shape. Each of the spine member and the at least one lateral member includes one or more channels that extend along respective lengths thereof. A position of the spine member relative to the at least one lateral member is infinitely adjustable along the length of the lateral member. The method further includes securing an accessory rod assembly to the spine member so that an accessory rod of the accessory rod assembly extends transversely away from the spine member. A position of the accessory rod assembly relative to the spine member is infinitely adjustable along a length of the spine member.

In a feature of this aspect, the cross-sectional shape of the spine member is the same as the cross-sectional shape of the at least one lateral member.

In another feature of this aspect, the accessory rod assembly includes a base member, having at least one hook, and a rotatable knob having a threaded shaft that is received within a threaded portion of the base member.

In another feature of this aspect, securing the accessory rod assembly to the spine member includes: positioning the at least one hook against a ledge of one of the one or more channels of the spine member; and rotating the rotatable knob to position a distal end of the threaded shaft against a wall of the same or a different one of the one or more channels of the spine member, thereby clamping the accessory rod assembly to the spine member.

In another feature of this aspect, the accessory rod assembly includes a base member, having at least one hook, and a rotatable cam lever mounted to the base member, the rotatable cam lever including a toothed cam.

In another feature of this aspect, securing the accessory rod assembly to the spine member includes: positioning the at least one hook against a ledge of one of the one or more channels of the spine member; and rotating the rotatable cam lever to position the toothed cam against a wall of the same or a different one of the one or more channels of the spine member, thereby clamping the accessory rod assembly to the spine member.

In another feature of this aspect, the accessory rod has a generally uniform cross-sectional shape and one or more channels that extend along a length thereof.

In another feature of this aspect, the method further includes mounting a half-spool accessory to the accessory rod.

In another feature of this aspect, mounting the half-spool accessory to the accessory rod includes: positioning a first resilient snap of the half-spool accessory to be seated beneath a ledge of a first one of the one or more channels of the accessory rod; rotating the half-spool accessory toward the accessory rod; engaging a second resilient snap of the half-spool accessory against a ledge of a second one of the one or channels of the accessory rod; and applying a force to the half-spool accessory such that the second resilient snap is sufficiently deflected to permit the second resilient snap to be seated beneath the ledge of the second one of the one or more channels of the accessory rod.

In another feature of this aspect, a position of the half-spool accessory relative to the accessory rod is infinitely adjustable along the length of the accessory rod.

In another feature of this aspect, the method further includes removing the half-spool accessory from the accessory rod.

In another feature of this aspect, removing the half-spool accessory from the accessory rod includes pulling the half-spool accessory off from a distal end of the accessory rod.

In another feature of this aspect, removing the half-spool accessory from the accessory rod includes applying a force to the half-spool accessory to sufficiently deflect at least one of the first and second resilient snaps so that such resilient snap is no longer seated beneath the corresponding ledge of the accessory rod.

In another feature of this aspect, the method further includes securing a cable finger accessory to the accessory rod.

In another feature of this aspect, the cable finger accessory includes first and second clamp sections connected to one another via a first hinge and permitted to rotate relative to one another, a cable finger extending from at least one of the first and second clamp sections, a cam lever link connected to the distal end of the first clamp section via a second hinge, a cam lever connected to a distal end of the cam lever link via a third hinge, the cam lever having a cam structure at a proximal end thereof, and a cam trough extending from the distal end of the second clamp section.

In another feature of this aspect, securing the cable finger accessory to the accessory rod includes: positioning the first clamp section against the accessory rod; rotating the second clamp section toward the accessory rod so that the accessory rod is disposed between the first and second clamp sections; rotating the cam lever link toward the second clamp section; positioning the cam structure of the cam lever to be seated in the cam trough; and rotating the cam lever toward the second clamp section to clamp the first and second clamp sections together around the accessory rod with the cable finger extending in a first direction.

In another feature of this aspect, the one or more channels of the accessory rod includes a grip channel, and positioning the first clamp section against the accessory rod includes positioning a rib of the first clamp section within the grip channel of the accessory rod.

In another feature of this aspect, the method further includes fitting a portion of the cam lever link within a notch in the cam trough.

In another feature of this aspect, the method further includes fitting a male snap structure on the cam lever within a female snap receptacle on the second clamp section.

In another feature of this aspect, the method further includes repositioning the cable finger accessory so that the cable finger extends in a second direction.

In another feature of this aspect, repositioning the cable finger accessory includes: rotating the cam lever away from the second clamp section to loosen the grip of the first and second clamp sections against the accessory rod; rotating the cable finger accessory relative to the accessory rod so that the cable finger extends in the second direction; and rotating the cam lever toward the second clamp section to clamp the first and second clamp sections together around the accessory rod with the cable finger extending in the second direction.

In another feature of this aspect, the method further includes securing a cable strap/buckle accessory to a cable finger of the cable finger accessory.

In another feature of this aspect, securing the cable strap/buckle accessory includes: positioning a mounting boss, extending from a buckle support of the cable strap/buckle accessory, through a generally rectangular opening of the cable finger; and rotating the mounting boss so that sides of the mounting boss extend transversely across the generally rectangular opening, thereby blocking the mounting boss from passing back out from the opening.

In another feature of this aspect, the method further includes securing a cable strap/buckle accessory to one of the spine member or the at least one lateral member.

In another feature of this aspect, securing the cable strap/buckle accessory includes: positioning a mounting boss, extending from a buckle support of the cable strap/buckle accessory, into a T-shaped one of the one or more channels of either the spine member or the at least one lateral member; and rotating the mounting boss so that sides of the mounting boss extend transversely into the T-shaped channel, thereby blocking the mounting boss from passing back out from the T-shaped channel.

In another feature of this aspect, the method further includes fitting a generally round snap on the buckle support through a generally round socket of a buckle of the cable strap/buckle accessory.

In another feature of this aspect, the buckle is capable of free rotation relative to the buckle support.

In another feature of this aspect, securing the cable strap/buckle accessory includes positioning an arcuate boss on the buckle within a corresponding trough on the buckle support.

In another feature of this aspect, the arcuate boss on the buckle is generally coaxial with the generally round socket, and the trough on the buckle support is generally coaxial with the generally round snap.

In another feature of this aspect, the arcuate boss is slidable within the trough.

In another feature of this aspect, the snap is a split snap having at least a pair of snap sections that are deflectable toward one another to facilitate receipt of the split snap within the socket.

In another feature of this aspect, the method further includes fitting a strap through one or more slots in the buckle.

Broadly defined, the present invention according to another aspect includes a method of installing a cable management accessory on an extruded support member having a generally uniform cross-sectional shape. The method includes: providing an extruded support member having at least one T-slot channel that extends along a length thereof; and securing an accessory rod assembly to the extruded support member, by clamping a base member of the accessory rod assembly to the at least one T-slot channel, so that an accessory rod of the accessory rod assembly extends transversely away from the extruded support member. A position of the accessory rod assembly relative to the extruded support member is infinitely adjustable along the length of the extruded support member.

In a feature of this aspect, the base member has at least one hook and a rotatable knob having a threaded shaft that is received within a threaded portion of the base member.

In another feature of this aspect, securing the accessory rod assembly to the extruded support member includes: positioning the at least one hook against a ledge of the at least one T-slot channel of the extruded support member; and rotating the rotatable knob to position a distal end of the threaded shaft against a wall of the at least one T-slot channel of the extruded support member, thereby clamping the accessory rod assembly to the extruded support member.

In another feature of this aspect, the base member has at least one hook and a rotatable cam lever mounted to the base member, the rotatable cam lever including a toothed cam.

In another feature of this aspect, securing the accessory rod assembly to the extruded support member includes: positioning the at least one hook against a ledge of the at least one T-slot channel of the extruded support member; and rotating the rotatable cam lever to position the toothed cam against a wall of the at least one T-slot channel of the extruded support member, thereby clamping the accessory rod assembly to the extruded support member.

In another feature of this aspect, the accessory rod has a generally uniform cross-sectional shape and one or more channels that extend along a length thereof.

In another feature of this aspect, the method further includes mounting a half-spool accessory to the accessory rod.

In another feature of this aspect, mounting the half-spool accessory to the accessory rod includes: positioning a first resilient snap of the half-spool accessory to be seated beneath a ledge of a first one of the one or more channels of the accessory rod; rotating the half-spool accessory toward the accessory rod; engaging a second resilient snap of the half-spool accessory against a ledge of a second one of the one or channels of the accessory rod; and applying a force to the half-spool accessory such that the second resilient snap is sufficiently deflected to permit the second resilient snap to be seated beneath the ledge of the second one of the one or more channels of the accessory rod.

In another feature of this aspect, a position of the half-spool accessory relative to the accessory rod is infinitely adjustable along the length of the accessory rod.

In another feature of this aspect, the method further includes removing the half-spool accessory from the accessory rod.

In another feature of this aspect, removing the half-spool accessory from the accessory rod includes pulling the half-spool accessory off from a distal end of the accessory rod.

In another feature of this aspect, removing the half-spool accessory from the accessory rod includes applying a force to the half-spool accessory to sufficiently deflect at least one of the first and second resilient snaps so that such resilient snap is no longer seated beneath the corresponding ledge of the accessory rod.

In another feature of this aspect, the method further includes securing a cable finger accessory to the accessory rod.

In another feature of this aspect, the cable finger accessory includes: first and second clamp sections connected to one another via a first hinge and permitted to rotate relative to one another; a cable finger extending from at least one of the first and second clamp sections; a cam lever link connected to the distal end of the first clamp section via a second hinge; a cam lever connected to a distal end of the cam lever link via a third hinge, the cam lever having a cam structure at a proximal end thereof; and a cam trough extending from the distal end of the second clamp section.

In another feature of this aspect, securing the cable finger accessory to the accessory rod includes: positioning the first clamp section against the accessory rod; rotating the second clamp section toward the accessory rod so that the accessory rod is disposed between the first and second clamp sections; rotating the cam lever link toward the second clamp section; positioning the cam structure of the cam lever to be seated in the cam trough; and rotating the cam lever toward the second clamp section to clamp the first and second clamp sections together around the accessory rod with the cable finger extending in a first direction.

In another feature of this aspect, the one or more channels of the accessory rod includes a grip channel, and positioning the first clamp section against the accessory rod includes positioning a rib of the first clamp section within the grip channel of the accessory rod.

In another feature of this aspect, the method further includes fitting a portion of the cam lever link within a notch in the cam trough.

In another feature of this aspect, the method further includes fitting a male snap structure on the cam lever within a female snap receptacle on the second clamp section.

In another feature of this aspect, the method further includes repositioning the cable finger accessory so that the cable finger extends in a second direction.

In another feature of this aspect, repositioning the cable finger accessory includes: rotating the cam lever away from the second clamp section to loosen the grip of the first and second clamp sections against the accessory rod; rotating the cable finger accessory relative to the accessory rod so that the cable finger extends in the second direction; and rotating the cam lever toward the second clamp section to clamp the first and second clamp sections together around the accessory rod with the cable finger extending in the second direction.

In another feature of this aspect, the method further includes securing a cable strap/buckle accessory to a cable finger of the cable finger accessory.

In another feature of this aspect, securing the cable strap/buckle accessory includes: positioning a mounting boss, extending from a buckle support of the cable strap/buckle accessory, through a generally rectangular opening of the cable finger; and rotating the mounting boss so that sides of the mounting boss extend transversely across the generally rectangular opening, thereby blocking the mounting boss from passing back out from the opening.

Broadly defined, the present invention according to another aspect includes a method of installing a cable strap/buckle accessory on an extruded support member having a generally uniform cross-sectional shape. The method includes: providing an extruded support member that defines at least one T-slot channel that extends along a length thereof; positioning a mounting boss, extending from a buckle support of the cable strap/buckle accessory, into the at least one T-shaped channel; and rotating the mounting boss so that sides of the mounting boss extend transversely into the T-shaped channel, thereby blocking the mounting boss from passing back out from the at least one T-shaped channel.

In another feature of this aspect, the method further includes fitting a generally round snap on the buckle support through a generally round socket of a buckle of the cable strap/buckle accessory.

In another feature of this aspect, the buckle is capable of free rotation relative to the buckle support.

In another feature of this aspect, securing the cable strap/buckle accessory includes positioning an arcuate boss on the buckle within a corresponding trough on the buckle support.

In another feature of this aspect, wherein the arcuate boss on the buckle is generally coaxial with the generally round socket, and the trough on the buckle support is generally coaxial with the generally round snap.

In another feature of this aspect, the arcuate boss is slidable within the trough.

In another feature of this aspect, the snap is a split snap having at least a pair of snap sections that are deflectable toward one another to facilitate receipt of the split snap within the socket.

In another feature of this aspect, the method further includes fitting a strap through one or more slots in the buckle.

Broadly defined, the present invention according to another aspect includes a cable manager with an easy-close door having a left side and a right side, including: a back assembly; a left side wall extending forward from the back assembly; a right side wall extending forward from the back assembly; a top left door support and a bottom left door support at a top front and a bottom front, respectively, of the left side wall; a top right door support and a bottom right door support at a top front and a bottom front, respectively, of the right side wall; a bottom cross member extending between the bottom left and right door supports; a door assembly, including a door panel having a bottom edge, that is mounted between the top and bottom support members on the left side via one or more hinge-latch mechanisms and that is likewise mounted between the top and bottom support members on the right side via one or more hinge-latch mechanisms such that the one or more hinge-latch mechanisms on the right side may be released to permit the door panel to be rotated relative to the one or more hinge-latch mechanism on the left side and such that the one or more hinge-latch mechanisms on the left side may be alternatively released to permit the door panel to be rotated relative to the one or more hinge-latch mechanism on the right side; a lift-and-hold mechanism and a bearing structure, one of which is supported by and carried on the rotatable door panel and the other of which is supported by a static portion of the cable manager, wherein the lift-and-hold mechanism and bearing structure are jointly adapted to support the door panel during some or all of a process of hingedly opening and closing the door panel from the left side, the right side, or both, wherein the lift-and-hold mechanism is movable relative to the structure on which it is carried, and wherein the lift-and-hold mechanism includes a plurality of surface features for interaction with the bearing structure as the door panel is rotated opened and closed about an axis of rotation, the structures including a first bearing surface that supports the door panel at a first elevation in an initial closed state, a lifting surface that makes contact with the door panel while the door panel is being hinged opened and, through such contact, lifts the door panel to a second elevation as the door panel is opened further, the second elevation being higher than the first elevation, and a second bearing surface that subsequently supports the door panel at the second elevation once the door panel is opened still further, and continues supporting the door panel at the second elevation while the door is subsequently being rotated from the still further opened state back to the closed state, thereby avoiding interference between the bottom edge of the door panel and the bottom cross member while the door panel is being closed.

In a feature of this aspect, as the door is being rotated from the still further opened state back to the closed state, at least a portion of the lift-and-hold mechanism moves, relative to the structure on which the lift-and-hold mechanism is carried, while continuing to support the door panel on the second bearing surface. In further features, the lift-and-hold mechanism further includes an engagement structure that engages the door panel after the door panel is lifted to the second elevation by the lifting surface, wherein such engagement causes the movable portion of the lift-and-hold mechanism to move when the door panel is moved; the door panel includes a corresponding engagement structure that is engaged by the engagement structure of the lift-and-hold mechanism; the engagement structure of the lift-and-hold mechanism is an engagement tooth; the engagement tooth is a first engagement tooth, wherein the bearing structure includes a second engagement tooth, and wherein engagement between the first and second engagement teeth causes the movable portion of the lift-and-hold mechanism to move with the door panel when the door panel is moved, thereby holding the door panel on the second bearing surface and maintaining the elevation of the bottom edge of the door panel above the bottom cross member; the lifting surface includes a ramp that engages with the bearing structure to gradually raise the door panel as the door panel is being opened; the ramp initially, as the door panel is being opened, lifts the door panel to a third elevation that is higher than the second elevation, and wherein as the door panel is further opened, the door panel is dropped from the third elevation down to the second elevation; the ramp is a first ramp, wherein the bearing structure includes a second ramp, and wherein the first ramp engages with the second ramp to gradually raise the door panel as the door panel is being opened; the movable portion of the lift-and-hold mechanism rotates about the axis of rotation of the door panel; the movable portion of the lift-and-hold mechanism includes a lifter disk; the lifter disk is disposed in a lifter nest; the lift-and-hold mechanism is supported and carried by a first of the door supports, and wherein the lift-and-hold mechanism is movable relative to the first door support; the lift-and-hold mechanism includes a lifter disk that is disposed in a lifter nest in an end of the first door support; the lift-and-hold mechanism is supported and carried by the door panel, and wherein the lift-and-hold mechanism is movable relative to the door panel; the hinge-latch mechanism includes a hinge mount having a hinge pin, and wherein movable portion of the lift-and-hold mechanism rotates around the hinge pin; the lift-and-hold mechanism includes a spring that biases the movable portion of the lift-and-hold mechanism; when the bearing structure is disengaged, by a user, from the second bearing surface, the spring returns to the movable portion of the lift-and-hold mechanism to an initial state; the movable portion of the lift-and-hold mechanism slides transversely along a front of the cable manager; the movable portion of the lift-and-hold mechanism includes a sliding lifter arm; and/or the bearing structure is incorporated into the hinge-latch mechanism.

In another feature of this aspect, the side walls include side wall finger units to provide routing options for cables. In a further feature, the door supports are integrated into the side wall finger units.

In another feature of this aspect, the door supports are integrated into support arms.

In another feature of this aspect, the hinge-latch mechanism includes a hinge assembly and a hinge mount. In further features, each combination of a hinge assembly and a hinge mount implements a latch assembly; each latch assembly includes a spring-loaded structure that is temporarily pushed aside by closure of the door panel and returns to a previous position to the hold the door panel closed; the bearing structure is incorporated into the hinge assembly; and/or the lift-and-hold mechanism is incorporated into the hinge mount.

Broadly defined, the present invention according to another aspect includes an IT enclosure with an easy-close door having a left side and a right side, including: a back assembly; a left side wall extending forward from the back assembly; a right side wall extending forward from the back assembly; a top left door support and a bottom left door support at a top front and a bottom front, respectively, of the left side wall; a top right door support and a bottom right door support at a top front and a bottom front, respectively, of the right side wall; a bottom cross member extending between the bottom left and right door supports; a door assembly, including a door panel having a bottom edge, that is mounted between the top and bottom support members on the left side via one or more hinge-latch mechanisms and that is likewise mounted between the top and bottom support members on the right side via one or more hinge-latch mechanisms such that the one or more hinge-latch mechanisms on the right side may be released to permit the door panel to be rotated relative to the one or more hinge-latch mechanism on the left side and such that the one or more hinge-latch mechanisms on the left side may be alternatively released to permit the door panel to be rotated relative to the one or more hinge-latch mechanism on the right side; a lift-and-hold mechanism and a bearing structure, one of which is supported by and carried on the rotatable door panel and the other of which is supported by a static portion of the IT enclosure, wherein the lift-and-hold mechanism and bearing structure are jointly adapted to support the door panel during some or all of a process of hingedly opening and closing the door panel from the left side, the right side, or both, wherein the lift-and-hold mechanism is movable relative to the structure on which it is carried, and wherein the lift-and-hold mechanism includes a plurality of surface features for interaction with the bearing structure as the door panel is rotated opened and closed about an axis of rotation, the structures including a first bearing surface that supports the door panel at a first elevation in an initial closed state, a lifting surface that makes contact with the door panel while the door panel is being hinged opened and, through such contact, lifts the door panel to a second elevation as the door panel is opened further, the second elevation being higher than the first elevation, and a second bearing surface that subsequently supports the door panel at the second elevation once the door panel is opened still further, and continues supporting the door panel at the second elevation while the door is subsequently being rotated from the still further opened state back to the closed state, thereby avoiding interference between the bottom edge of the door panel and the bottom cross member while the door panel is being closed

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As a preliminary matter, it will readily be understood by one having ordinary skill in the relevant art (“Ordinary Artisan”) that the present invention has broad utility and application. Furthermore, any embodiment discussed and identified as being “preferred” is considered to be part of a best mode contemplated for carrying out the present invention. Other embodiments also may be discussed for additional illustrative purposes in providing a full and enabling disclosure of the present invention. As should be understood, any embodiment may incorporate only one or a plurality of the above-disclosed aspects of the invention and may further incorporate only one or a plurality of the above-disclosed features. Moreover, many embodiments, such as adaptations, variations, modifications, and equivalent arrangements, will be implicitly disclosed by the embodiments described herein and fall within the scope of the present invention.

Referring now to the drawings, in which like numerals represent like components throughout the several views, one or more preferred embodiments of the present invention are next described. The following description of one or more preferred embodiment(s) is merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the invention, its application, or uses.

FIG. 1is a front isometric view of a cable manager10in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, andFIG. 2is a front isometric view of the cable manager10ofFIG. 1, shown with a cover removed to reveal a backbone assembly20and an accessory rod assembly40. As shown, elements of the cable manager10include, or may include, a backbone assembly20, side walls12, side wall cable finger units16, support arms11, at least one cross bar17, and a door assembly18. In some embodiments, the cable manager10also includes, or may include, various cable management accessories, which may include one or more accessory rod assemblies40, one or more half spools60, one or more repositionable cable finger accessories70, and/or one or more cable strap/buckle accessories90, as well as other accessories.

The cable manager10ofFIGS. 1 and 2is often used with racks, enclosures, and other equipment to address the needs of cable routing to, from, and around such equipment. In this regard,FIG. 3is a front isometric view of the cable manager10ofFIG. 1, shown attached to a two-post mounting rack13. It will be appreciated, however, that the cable manager10may be used with other equipment or in some cases even without any other adjacent equipment. Furthermore, it will be appreciated that many of the features of the cable manager10may be incorporated into other IT structures, such as electronic equipment enclosures, and even into some non-IT structures.

It will be also appreciated that many or all of the features of the cable manager10ofFIGS. 1 and 2may be incorporated into double-sided cable managers and other structures. For example,FIG. 4Ais an isometric view of a double-sided cable manager210in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, andFIG. 4Bis an isometric close-up partial view of the double-sided cable manager210ofFIG. 4A.

FIG. 5is a front elevation view of the backbone assembly20ofFIG. 2. As shown therein, the backbone assembly20includes a spine member24and a plurality of lateral members23. In at least some embodiments, each spine member24and lateral member23utilizes an extruded construction, and in at least some of these embodiments, each spine member24and lateral member23utilize the same cross-section. In this regard,FIG. 6is an end view of an extrusion30used for the spine member24and lateral members23ofFIG. 5. The extrusion30includes one or more fastener screw-in channels31, one or more T-slot channels32with internal ledges35, one or more additional ledges33, and opposed sides having curvature of a minimum radius34. The screw-in channels31are able to receive and retain screw-in fasteners, while the T-slot channels32are able to receive and retain the head of a bolt or other fastener, and/or, in a preferred embodiment, are able to receive and retain a drop-in nut or the like. In the illustrated embodiment (and with further reference toFIG. 7, discussed below), spring nuts21are received in the T-slot channels32and positioned in their desired locations along such channels32with the spring portion of the spring nuts helping to hold them in place via interference fit.

Interconnection between each lateral member23and spine member24may be facilitated using a mounting bracket25. In this regard,FIG. 7is an exploded fragmentary orthogonal view of upper portions of the backbone assembly20ofFIG. 5. The mounting bracket25, which may be made of sheet metal, preferably includes a raised lip22, apertures26,27, and corresponding fasteners28,29. The raised lip22may help align the bracket25along a side of lateral member23(and/or along an end of the spine member24). A first set of fasteners28extend through corresponding apertures26and into the screw-in channels31in the extrusion30, while a second set of fasteners29extend through corresponding apertures27and into the spring nuts21located in a T-slot channel32of the lateral member23.

By using an extruded construction, the end of a spine member24may be positioned at any desired location along the length of the lateral member23, with adjustment of such position being infinite along the length. Thus, although the spine member24inFIG. 5is shown as being centered between the top and bottom lateral members23, it will be appreciated that the spine member24may be installed or repositioned elsewhere. For example,FIG. 8is a front elevation view of the backbone assembly20ofFIG. 2, shown with the spine member24disposed toward a side thereof. Furthermore, additional spine members24may be added if desired. For example,FIG. 9is a front elevation view of the backbone assembly20ofFIG. 8, shown with two spine members24installed between the top and bottom lateral members23.

FIG. 10is an orthogonal view of a pair of support arms11of the cable manager10ofFIG. 1. The support arms11include first and second radiused surfaces36,37, fittings38for connection to the side walls12, a lateral member interface39, and a door support53. The radiused surfaces36,37provide proper curvature for cables routed out of the top (or bottom) of the cable manager10. The lateral member interface38may be connected to an end of a lateral member23via fasteners (not shown) inserted into the screw-in channels31thereof. Details of the door supports53, which interface with hinge assemblies130on the door assembly18, are provided below.

Advantageously, various embodiments of the cable manager design of the present invention use a combination of extruded, die-cast, injection-molded and sheet-metal parts to provide tracks for attaching accessories and other parts or equipment. This allows “infinite” installation and adjustment of accessories along the track and facilitates the use of clamps or other attachment methods that can eliminate the need for hardware. Features for maintaining bend radii, attaching accessories, doors and other peripheral parts can be integrated into the extruded, die-cast or injection-molded parts of the frame to further increase the functionality and flexibility of the manager when compared to sheet-metal designs. The arms and extrusions further provide gentle cable entry and exit guides to maintain cable bend radii and support. These parts and features can also be applied in a double-sided configuration where cable or equipment management is desired within or around both the front and rear portions of the manager.

FIG. 11is an enlarged orthogonal view of a portion of the accessory rod assembly40ofFIG. 2, shown mounted on a spine member24of the backbone assembly20, whileFIG. 12is a front view of the accessory rod assembly40ofFIG. 11, shown with the end cap45removed, andFIG. 13is an exploded orthogonal view of the accessory rod assembly40ofFIG. 11, shown in isolation. As shown inFIGS. 11, 12, and 13, the accessory rod assembly40includes a base member41, a knob42, a rod43, one or more fasteners44, and an end cap45. The knob42is threaded into the base member41such that a distal end46of the threaded portion47of the knob42can be tightened against a corresponding portion of a spine member24or other structure. The threaded portion48of the base member41has a tapered, angled exterior surface to provide minimum curvature in the area where the knob42connects to the base member41, and a shroud49is provided to interface with the underside of the knob42so as to shield cables (not shown) from being abraded or being pinched or caught by the knob threads. The function and operation of the knob42are described below.

FIG. 14is a fragmentary top cross-sectional view of the accessory rod assembly40and spine member24ofFIG. 12, taken along line14-14. As shown therein, the base member41is held in place on the spine member24via hooks51extending from the rear of the base member41and by the distal end46of the knob42. The hooks51fit around ledges33,35of the spine member24, while the distal end46of the knob42is pressed against a wall52of the T-slot channel32, thus holding the hooks51in place. Although not specifically illustrated, the accessory rod assembly40may likewise be mounted on a lateral member23of the backbone assembly20.

Advantageously, the knob42facilitates the easy attachment, removal, and/or repositioning of the accessory rod assembly40to or on the spine member24. In this regard,FIG. 15is a fragmentary top cross-sectional view similar to that ofFIG. 14, but with the knob42unscrewed to remove the bearing surface of the distal end46from the T-slot channel wall52, andFIG. 16is a fragmentary top cross-sectional view similar to that of FIG.15, but with the entire accessory rod assembly40shifted sideways to permit removal or movement thereof. Once the accessory rod assembly40is in the desired located along the spine member24or lateral member23, it may be installed by reversing the process ofFIGS. 14-16such that the hooks51are engaged on the ledges33,35and the knob42screwed inward until the distal end46bears against the T-slot channel wall52.

In at least some embodiments, the rod43utilizes an extruded construction. In this regard,FIG. 17is a front cross-sectional view of the accessory rod43ofFIG. 13, taken along line17-17, shown in isolation. As shown therein, the rod43has a generally uniform cross-section and includes a partially cylindrical overall profile, one or more drop-in T-slot channels54formed by ledges57, one or more fastener screw-in channels55that may or may not be extensions of the T-slot channels54, and a plurality of grip channels56. The fastener screw-in channels55are used to attach the rod43to the base member41via fasteners44, while the T-slot channels54and grip channels56may be utilized to attach other structures to the rods43. The T-slot channels54may be utilized conventionally, wherein structures are attached to the rod43using fasteners (not shown) where either the head of a fastener, or a threaded nut or similar structure that receives a fastener, is inserted into a T-slot channel54and tightened. However, various accessories are known or may be designed to utilize the T-slot channels54and/or grip channels56in novel ways. Some such examples of various accessories are further described below.

FIG. 18is an enlarged orthogonal view of a portion of an alternative accessory rod assembly240, for use in the cable manager10ofFIG. 2, shown mounted on a spine member24of the backbone assembly20, whileFIG. 19is a front view of the accessory rod assembly240ofFIG. 18, shown with the end cap45removed, andFIG. 20is an exploded orthogonal view of the accessory rod assembly240ofFIG. 18, shown in isolation. As shown inFIGS. 18, 19, and 20, the accessory rod assembly240includes a base member241, a cam lever242, a rod43, one or more fasteners44, and an end cap45. The cam lever242includes a cam246and a snap feature247, and the base member241includes a snap receptacle248. The snap feature247is installed in, and rotates within, the snap receptacle248, thus allowing rotation of the cam lever242relative to the base member241. However, other attachment means may be used instead of the snap feature247and snap receptacle248(so long as they allow rotation). The function and operation of the cam lever242are described below.

FIG. 21is a fragmentary top cross-sectional view of the accessory rod assembly240and spine member24ofFIG. 19, taken along line21-21. As shown therein, the base member241is held in place on the spine member24via hooks251extending from the rear of the base member241and by the cam246. The hooks251fit around ledges33,35of the spine member24, while one or both cam teeth249of the cam246are pressed against a wall52of the T-slot channel32, thus holding the hooks251in place. Although not specifically illustrated, the accessory rod assembly240may likewise be mounted on a lateral member23of the backbone assembly20.

Advantageously, the cam lever242facilitates the easy attachment, removal, and/or repositioning of the accessory rod assembly240to or on the spine member24. In this regard,FIG. 22is a fragmentary top cross-sectional view similar to that ofFIG. 21, but with the cam lever rotated upward to remove the bearing surface of the cam teeth249from the T-slot channel wall52, andFIG. 23is a fragmentary top cross-sectional view similar to that ofFIG. 22, but with the entire accessory rod assembly240shifted sideways to permit removal or movement thereof. Once the accessory rod assembly240is in the desired located along the spine member24or lateral member23, it may be installed by reversing the process ofFIGS. 21-23such that the hooks251are engaged on the ledges33,35and the cam lever242rotated until the cam teeth249bear against the T-slot channel wall52.

FIGS. 24 and 25are a top front isometric view and a front elevation view, respectively, of the half-spool accessory60ofFIG. 2. This accessory, which may be particularly suitable for routing large numbers of cables within the cable manager10, includes a central portion61for carrying cables, front and rear end flanges62,63to help retain cables around or within the central spool portion61, one or more standoffs64, a plurality of resilient snaps65, and one or more finger grips66. The standoffs64(one shown inFIG. 25, but there may be more than one) help position the accessory60against the rod43of the accessory rod assembly40, and may include a correspondingly curved surface67to provide a better fit against the surface of the rod43. The resilient snaps65retain the accessory60on the rod43, while the finger grips66provide a more convenient surface or edge for a user to grasp in order to remove the accessory60from the rod43, all as further described below. The central portion61is preferably cylindrical (i.e., forms a portion of a cylinder) and conforms to industry cable bend radius standards. The joints between the central portion61and the arcuate flanges62,63are preferably also arcuate.

FIGS. 26-28are front views illustrating the installation of half-spool accessories60on a rod43, for example of the accessory rod assembly40, which is shown in isolation and in cross-section. InFIG. 26, a first half-spool60is shown angled so that the snap(s)65along one side thereof can be hooked underneath a ledge57of the T-shaped channel54of the rod43. With the first snap(s)65positioned, the accessory60may be rotated in the direction of the arrow until the snap(s)65along the other side are deflected sufficiently to allow them to latch into place around a ledge57on the opposite side of the rod43, as shown inFIG. 27. A second accessory60can be installed in the same manner, as shown inFIG. 28, thereby allowing the creation of a nearly-complete cylinder through the combination of the respective central portions61in close proximity to one another.

Each half-spool accessory60may be removed in at least two ways. First, by gripping the accessory60, such as via the finger grips66, and pulling and/or twisting with sufficient force to deflect the snaps65along at least one side of the accessory60, the accessory may be removed by reversing the steps used to attach it. Second, because the rod43is of extruded construction, the accessory60may be removed by pulling it along the length of the rod43until it slips off the end thereof. In some embodiments, the end cap45of the accessory rod assembly40may be detached to facilitate such removal, while in other embodiments, the shape of the end cap45is selected such that the snaps65can be pulled off the rod43without removal of the end cap45.

FIGS. 29A and 29Bare a top front isometric view and a front elevation view, respectively, of the cable finger accessory70ofFIG. 2, shown in an open, unclamped state. This accessory70, which may be particularly suitable as a stable structure to which smaller numbers of cables may be attached in a variety of ways, includes a plurality of semi-arcuate clamp sections71,72, at least one of which has a finger73extending therefrom, that are connected together via a hinge74so as to rotate relative to one another. The accessory further includes a clamp mechanism that includes a cam lever link75connected to the distal end of one of the clamp sections71via another hinge76, a cam lever77, including a cam structure85, connected to the distal end of the cam lever link75by a third hinge78, and a cam trough79extending from the distal end of the other clamp section72. As shown inFIG. 29A, the cam trough79preferably includes a notch84for receiving the cam lever link75as further described below. A latch mechanism, which may for example include a male snap structure81on the cam lever77and a female snap receptacle82on one of the clamp sections72, is preferably provided to assist in holding the accessory70in place. Furthermore, locating ribs or other structures83may be provided to help prevent rotation of the accessory70when clamped in place. In at least some embodiments, each hinge74,76,78used a steel hinge spring pin seated in apertures in the respective structures, but other hinge designs and materials may alternatively be utilized. In at least some embodiments, the other components are all made of injection-molded PC/ABS, but other thermoplastic polymers and other materials may additionally or alternatively be utilized.

FIGS. 30-33are front views illustrating the installation of a cable finger accessory70on a rod43, for example of the accessory rod assembly40, which is shown in isolation and in cross-section. InFIG. 30, the open, unclamped accessory70is shown being positioned on the rod43. As indicated by the arrows, the accessory70may be rotated around the rod43until the desired orientation is achieved. The ribs83on the first clamp71are seated in corresponding grip channels56in the rod43. Subsequent or simultaneous with positioning the accessory70, the second section can be rotated toward the rod43(counterclockwise inFIG. 21) and the cam lever77and lever link75can be rotated in the opposite direction (clockwise inFIG. 21), as indicated by the arrows. As shown inFIG. 32, once the proximal end of the lever77is close enough to the cam trough79on the second clamp section72, the lever link75fits into the notch84in the cam trough79, the proximal end of the lever77is received in the cam trough79itself. With the proximal end of the lever77seated in the trough79, the cam lever77may be rotated further toward the second clamp section78, as shown by the arrow inFIG. 33. Rotation of the cam lever77causes the cam structure85to rotate within the trough79, thereby causing camming action by the cam85against the trough and forcing the second clamp section78against the rod43. As this happens, the male snap structure81is forced into the female snap receptacle82until it latches into place. When the lever77is fully seated against the second clamp section72, the clamp section will be pressed against the rod43with the locating ribs83on the clamp section72pressed into the corresponding grip channels56in the rod43. In this state, the cable finger accessory70is fully clamped on the rod43, with the cam structure85and latch mechanism holding the accessory70around the clamp and the locating ribs83preventing the accessory70from being further rotated unintentionally. The accessory70may then be removed or repositioned by releasing the latch mechanism and loosening the cam lever77until the accessory70can be moved accordingly.

The cable finger73includes a plurality of apertures167. In the illustrated embodiment, apertures167are spaced apart along the length of the cable finger73, and another aperture167is disposed at the distal end the cable finger73. These apertures167may be particularly useful as mounting locations. For example, as described in greater detail below, it is contemplated that the cable finger accessory70is equipped to accommodate a cable strap/buckle accessory90(or another accessory) at multiple positions along the length of the cable finger73(at either side thereof) or at the distal end of the cable finger73. Further control may be provided by an overhang171at the distal end of the cable finger73, which may help prevent cables or groups of cables from becoming inadvertently tangled or removed by sliding off the distal end of the cable finger73.

FIG. 34is a perspective view of the cable strap/buckle accessory90ofFIG. 2. This accessory90, which may be particularly suitable as a flexibly-located, quickly-installed structure for holding bundles of cables, includes a buckle91, a buckle support92, and a strap93. The strap93may be any conventional strap, such as a hook-and-loop (e.g., Velcro®) strap, zip tie, or the like.FIGS. 35-37are an exploded top isometric view, an exploded bottom isometric view, and an elevation view, respectively, of a cable strap/buckle accessory90ofFIG. 2. As shown therein, the buckle91includes a base94and two raised slots95. The base94is penetrated by a round socket96, and two coaxial arcuate bosses97extend from the bottom of the base94. The buckle support92includes a mounting boss103(described below), and a round, resilient snap98, which is preferably a split snap, that corresponds in size to the socket96of the buckle91. The snap98may be snapped or latched into the socket96by aligning them and applying sufficient force to deflect the split snap sections inward an amount sufficient to let them pass through the socket96. Angled surfaces102on the top of the snap98and similarly-angled surfaces101on the underside of the buckle base94make this easier. Once the snap98penetrates the socket96sufficiently, ledges99on the underside of the snap sections98retain the snap in place. Ridges177arranged along side edges of the buckle support92provide a surface that is easier to grip or manipulate during installation or use.FIG. 37is a side elevation view of the buckle91and buckle support92ofFIGS. 34-36, shown in an assembled state.

The accessory90may be installed in any of a variety of locations in the cable manager10or other location. For example,FIGS. 38A and 38Bare top views illustrating the installation of a cable strap/buckle accessory90on the spine member24ofFIG. 2, which is shown in isolation and in cross-section. As perhaps best shown inFIG. 36, the mounting boss103is a four-sided rectangular structure with two round corners104and two generally square, or right-angle, corners105. When oriented with the narrow portion of the rectangular mounting boss103along the T-slot channel32in the spine member24, the mounting boss103may be inserted into the channel32(or into a similar structure in a lateral member23or other member, or into other channels, openings, or the like), as shown inFIG. 38A. Once inserted, the buckle support92may be rotated approximately 90 degrees, preferably in a clockwise direction, such that the wide portion of the rectangular mounting boss103is held in place (blocked from removal) by the ledges35of the channels32, as shown inFIG. 38B. Such rotation and subsequent “locking in place” is facilitated by the round corners104(which make it easy to turn the buckle support92in the preferred direction) and the square corners105prevent further rotation and help hold the mounting boss103in place. The accessory90may then be removed by reversing the direction of rotation of the buckle support92in the opposite direction. The round corners104of the mounting boss103permit such rotation to occur, and when the narrow portion of the mounting boss103is once again aligned with the opening of the channel32, the accessory can be removed.

It will also be appreciated that the round snap98and socket96, as well as coaxial arcuate bosses97and trough or slot100, allow rotation of the buckle91relative to the buckle support92. In some embodiments such rotation can occur whether the buckle support92is installed, while in some embodiments, such rotation can occur only when it is installed, and in some embodiments such rotation can occur only when it is not installed. Rotation is possible because the arcuate bosses97are coaxial with the socket96, and the trough or slot100is coaxial with the snap98, such that latching the snap and socket together also causes the arcuate bosses97to be located in the trough or slot100. Once assembled into the state shown inFIG. 37, the buckle91may be rotated relative to the buckle support92by rotating the buckle base94around the snap98as the arcuate bosses97move within the circular trough or slot100. An example of such rotation is shown inFIG. 39, which is a fragmentary front view of the accessory90and spine member24ofFIG. 38B. As indicated by the arrow, the buckle91may be rotated either clockwise or counterclockwise about the snap98of the buckle support92.

The accessory90may also be installed and used in a variety of different locations on the cable finger accessory70ofFIGS. 29A-33. For example,FIGS. 40A and 40Bare front views of a cable strap/buckle accessory90being mounted on the cable finger accessory70and rod43ofFIG. 33. As noted previously, the cable finger73includes a plurality of apertures167spaced apart along the length of the cable finger73, and another aperture167disposed at the distal end the cable finger73. Each of the apertures167can be used to secure a cable strap/buckle accessory90to the cable finger accessory70. Depending on the position and spacing of the apertures167, some or all of the apertures167may be used at once. The apertures167are depicted as generally rectangular-shaped apertures, but other shapes are likewise contemplated. In at least some embodiments, a set of locating ribs169is disposed adjacent each aperture on one side of the cable finger73or the other; these ribs169can be used to align a fastener or some other mounting structure in order to facilitate securement of a separate cable strap/buckle accessory90to the cable finger accessory70. In some embodiments, such ribs169are provided on both sides (front and rear) of the cable finger73; in other embodiments, no ribs are provided at all. In at least some embodiments, a cable strap/buckle accessory90may be installed on either side of each aperture167based on the preference of the user, each aperture167may be used only from one side or the other.

When installed on a cable finger accessory70, the cable strap/buckle accessory90makes it easier to retain and manage bundles of cables. In particular, when oriented properly, the mounting boss103of the buckle support92can be received within one of the apertures167of the cable finger73, as shown inFIG. 40A. Once received within an aperture167, the mounting boss103is rotatable in one direction (preferably clockwise), as shown inFIG. 40B, so that the boss103is seated between locating ribs169at either side thereof, thereby providing a fixed position for the boss103between the ribs169and also frictionally clamping the boss103and buckle support92around the cable finger73. Removal of the cable strap/buckle accessory90can be accomplished by reversing the process so that the mounting boss103is aligned with the shape of the aperture167to permit it to be removed therefrom. As can be seen inFIG. 29A, apertures167are spaced apart along the length of the cable finger73, and another aperture167is disposed at the distal end the cable finger73. In this regard, it is contemplated that the cable finger accessory70is equipped to accommodate a cable strap/buckle accessory90(or another accessory) at multiple positions along the length of the cable finger73(at either side thereof) or at the distal end of the cable finger73.

FIGS. 41-43are perspective views of the cable strap/buckle accessory90ofFIG. 34illustrating the attachment of the strap93to the buckle91. As shown inFIG. 41, an end of the strap93may be inserted through the two raised slots95. Once the strap93is fully inserted through the slots95and positioned as desired, as shown inFIG. 42, the ends may be pulled up, out, back, or the like and closed together, as shown inFIG. 43. Hook-and-loop fasteners or the like may be provided to facilitate the strap ends being fastened together, or other devices may be utilized. Such a strap93is very useful for holding a bundle of cables together.

FIG. 44is a fragmentary perspective view of an upper corner of a cable manager10like that shown inFIG. 2but with various accessories and cable bundles19installed therein. The accessories include an accessory rod assembly40, two cable finger accessories70, and three cable strap/buckle accessories90.

Advantageously, various embodiments of the cable manager design of the present invention use a series of extrusions to allow toolless installation, adjustment and removal of cable manager accessories. Accessories can be “infinitely” adjusted along the extrusions so they can reach a much larger portion of the space in and around the manager. The extrusions themselves can also be adjusted within the manager to any desired location. The invention includes several different accessories that may be toollessly installed, adjusted, and removed and corresponding methods with which they may be used. The toolless installation of these accessories improves usability and makes installation, adjustment and removal much faster and easier.

Referring back toFIG. 1, the cable manager10includes, in at least some embodiments, a door assembly18.FIGS. 45-47are a front elevation view, a rear elevation view, and an enlarged fragmentary rear elevation view, respectively, of the door assembly18ofFIG. 1. As shown therein, the door assembly18includes a door panel108having a hinge set along each side and a corresponding latch assembly110for each hinge set. As used herein, the term “door panel” refers generally to the portion of the door assembly18that swings back and forth relative to the hinges, and may include a plurality of individual panels as well as a variety of other structure. Each hinge set includes a top and bottom hinge assembly130that is operationally connected to a respective latch assembly110. Because each side of the door panel108includes its own hinge set and latch assembly110, the door assembly18may be hinged open from either side, and/or the door panel108may be removed completely, as shown inFIG. 2. Although shown as part of the cable manager10, it will be appreciated that the latch assemblies110and hinge sets could be used on other cable managers and/or on any variation of electronic equipment (IT) cabinet or enclosure, or at least some other applications, where it is desired to have a door that hinges opens from either side.

FIGS. 48 and 49are a fragmentary, partially exploded, orthogonal view and a fragmentary, rear cross-sectional view, respectively, of portions of the door panel108and latch assemblies110ofFIGS. 45-47. As shown therein, each latch assembly110includes a latch handle111, a pair of racks114, a pair of lock rods115, a pair of compression springs116, and a gear117, all contained in a latch housing113. The latch housing113preferably includes two substantially identical halves that are held together with assembly screws112. The handle111is connected to the gear117by an assembly screw or other axle119. The racks114, which include an upper rack and a lower rack, are disposed on either side of the gear117such that the teeth of each rack mesh with the teeth of the gear117. Rotation of the gear117is thus linked to upward and downward movement of the racks114. To facilitate movement, each rack114includes lengthwise ears120that ride in tracks118formed in both halves of the housing113. A compression spring116is disposed at the proximal end of at least one of the racks114, while the distal end of each rack114is attached to a proximal end of a respective lock rod115. In operation, movement of the handle111turns the gear117, which in turn effectuates upward and downward movement of the racks114in their tracks118, thereby moving the lock rods115up and down.

In at least some embodiments, the door panel108and frame are made of sheet metal and steel tube, but other designs and materials may alternatively be utilized. In at least some embodiments, the lock rods115are made of aluminum, but other designs and materials may alternatively be utilized. In at least some embodiments, the screws112,119and springs116are made of steel, but other designs and materials may alternatively be utilized. In at least some embodiments, the other components are all made of injection-molded PC/ABS, but other thermoplastic polymers and other materials may additionally or alternatively be utilized.

FIG. 50is a fragmentary, partially exploded, orthogonal view of portions of the door panel108and the lower hinge assemblies130ofFIGS. 45-47. Each hinge assembly130includes a hinge body133that carries a bolt131in a central cavity135.FIG. 51is a bottom orthogonal view of the lower right hinge body133ofFIG. 50, andFIG. 52is a side cross-sectional view of portions of the door panel108and one of the lower hinge assemblies130ofFIG. 50, taken along line52-52. (It will be appreciated that the hinge body133in the lower left-hand corner ofFIG. 50is a mirror image of the hinge body133in the lower right-hand corner, and that some of the other components of each hinge assembly130are likewise left- or right-handed.) At its proximal end, the bolt131receives the distal end of one of the lock rods115, while at its distal end, the bolt131extends out of the opposite end of the hinge body133. As shown inFIG. 52, the bolt131includes an internal pin143that extends laterally through a slot140in the lock rod115such that the lock rod115is free to move longitudinally, relative to the bolt131, over the length of the slot140. The bolt131is biased away from the end of the lock rod115by a compression spring132disposed between a boss or other structure141on the end of the lock rod115and another internal pin142that extends vertically within the bolt131.

As perhaps best shown inFIG. 50, the hinge body133is fastened to the door panel108with assembly screws136. With particular reference to the arrangement shown inFIG. 52, the bolt131has vertical freedom of movement, relative to the hinge body133, but its downward movement is limited by the interface between a tab138at the proximal end of the bolt131(the top of the bolt131inFIGS. 50 and 52) and the proximal end of the hinge body133(the top of the hinge body133inFIGS. 50-52), and its upward movement is limited by the interface between the bolt strike144and another portion139of the hinge body133. Contact between the bolt tab138and the hinge body133may be cushioned by a bumper134of neoprene or other material in order to reduce noise, physical damage to the parts, and/or the like. Contact between the bolt strike144and the hinge body133is naturally cushioned by the compression spring132, but a bumper (not shown) may be utilized here as well. Notably, when the bolt131is fully extended as shown inFIG. 52, a hinge pin cavity145is defined behind the bolt strike144, within the end of the central cavity135of the hinge body133.

The door assembly18may be mounted between the support arms11by mounting the hinge assemblies130between upper and lower hinge mounts160, each of which includes a lifter disk150or lifter blank159and a lifter nest162. In this regard,FIG. 53is a fragmentary, partially-exploded, isometric view of the lower portion of the cable manager10ofFIG. 2, andFIG. 54is an enlarged view of portions of the view ofFIG. 53, shown with the cross bar17removed. As shown therein, a lifter disk150and corresponding torsion spring158are disposed in a lifter nest162at the end of each lower support arm11.FIGS. 55 and 56are a side elevation view and a bottom orthogonal view, respectively, of the lifter disk150ofFIG. 54. (It will be appreciated that the lifter disk150in the lower left-hand corner ofFIG. 53is a mirror image of the lifter disk150inFIG. 54, and that some of related components are likewise left- or right-handed.) With reference toFIGS. 55 and 56, each lifter disk150includes a lower bearing surface151, a lifting ramp152, an engagement tooth153, a raised bearing surface154, a pair of snap tabs155, a torsion spring arm catch156, and a central opening157. As shown inFIG. 54, the lower bearing surface151, the lifting ramp152, the engagement tooth153, and the raised bearing surface154are arranged axially around the central opening157.

Each lifter nest162is disposed in or at the end of a corresponding lower support arm11. In this regard,FIGS. 57-60are a fragmentary top isometric view, a fragmentary bottom isometric view, a fragmentary top plan view, and a fragmentary bottom plan view, respectively, of a portion of the distal end of the lower right support arm11ofFIG. 53. (Although not illustrated, the upper support arms11are identical in at least some embodiments, except for left- and right-handedness, in order to simplify manufacturing and reduce unique part count, but the upper support arms may alternatively be uniquely designed.) Arranged in the lifter nest162are a hinge pin161, a snap slot163for each snap tab155on the lifter disk150, a torsion spring nest164, a torsion spring end catch165, and a snap catch166at the end of each snap slot163. The lifter disk150is positioned in the lifter nest162such that the hinge pin161extends upward through the central opening157of the disk150and the snap tabs155extend through the snap slots163and are retained there. The torsion spring158is disposed in the torsion spring nest164with one end held in the torsion spring end catch165(shown as a hole, but other a notch or other structure may be used) and the other end held in the torsion spring arm catch156of the lifter disk150(visible inFIG. 56). In this arrangement, the lifter disk150can rotate around the axis of the hinge pin161, as limited by the snap tabs155in the snap slots163, but is biased in one direction by the torsion spring158.

Each lifter disk150interfaces with the hinge body133and bolt131of a respective bottom hinge assembly130. With particular reference toFIG. 51, the hinge body133includes an engagement tooth147, a lower bearing surface148, and an upper bearing surface149. The profile of the engagement tooth147defines a lifting ramp146. The door assembly18may be installed on the bottom hinge pins161by setting the bottom of the door onto the lower cross bar17so that the hinge pins161slide up into the hinge pin cavities145. When the door assembly18is in installed and is positioned in its closed state (shown inFIG. 1), and when the lifter disk150is in its biased orientation, the lower bearing surface148of the hinge body133rests on the lower bearing surface151of the lifter disk150and the upper bearing surface149of the hinge body133rests on top of the lifting ramp146/engagement tooth147with the lifting ramp146of the hinge body133in close proximity to the lifting ramp152of the lifter disk150.

Although not illustrated inFIG. 53, a lifter blank159is disposed in or at the end of each upper support arm11. In this regard,FIG. 61is a bottom isometric view of a lifter blank159from one of the upper support arms11ofFIGS. 1 and 2. The lifter blank159includes a bearing surface172, a central opening173, and a pair of snap tabs155. Each lifter blank159is preferably disposed, in the orientation shown inFIG. 61, in a respective lifter nest161in the end of one of the upper support arms11such that the hinge pin161extends down through the central opening173of the blank159. With the bottom of the door assembly18installed on the lower hinge pins161, the upper end of the door assembly18may be installed on the upper hinge pins161by pushing the top of door assembly18toward the upper support arms11until the bolt strikes144make contact with the hinge pins161. Because of the sloped surface of the bolt strike144and the sloped surface168on the top of the hinge pins161, each bolt131is driven into its hinge body133(downward in the upper hinge assemblies130), against the bias of the compression spring132, until the bolt131clears the hinge pin161. At this point, the bolt131springs outward again, driven by the compression spring132, and the hinge pin161settles into the hinge pin cavity145.

Once the door assembly18is installed, it may be opened along either side via the latch handle111. When one of the latch handles111is rotated by a user, the corresponding gear117is likewise rotated (counterclockwise inFIG. 49), causing the racks114to be translated inward against the bias of the compression springs116. Inward movement of the racks114also causes the lock rods115on the selected side of the door assembly18to be pulled inward. At their distal ends, the lock rod slots140pull on the internal pins143of the bolts131, retracting the bolts131into the central cavities135of the hinge bodies133. Once the bolts131have been retracted a sufficient distance to clear the hinge pins161, the door assembly18can be pulled open and rotated about the hinge assemblies130on the opposite side of the door assembly18.

While the bolts131are being retracted along one side of the door assembly18, the hinge assemblies130, lifter disks150, etc. along the other side of the door assembly18operate to facilitate rotation of the door assembly18about the hinge pins161with little interference from the bottom or sill of the door frame (i.e., the cross bar17, the hinge area, etc). In this regard,FIGS. 62-66are enlarged fragmentary front elevation views of the lower left corner of the cable manager10ofFIG. 1with the door assembly18shown in various states of operation. InFIG. 62, the door panel108is fully closed, the lifter disk150is in its natural state (i.e., rotated to its fullest extent by the torsion spring158), and the hinge body133is resting on the lower bearing surface151of the lifter disk150. As the door panel108is opened, the hinge assembly130rotates around the hinge pin161, and the hinge body133is forced upward as its lifting ramp146makes contact with the lifting ramp152of the lifter disk150, as shown inFIG. 62B. The hinge body133continues to be pushed upward by the lifting ramp152until it reaches the top thereof, as shown inFIG. 63. After that, further rotation of the door panel108moves the hinge body133past the engagement tooth153of the lifter disk150and allows the lower bearing surface148of the hinge body133to drop down onto the raised bearing surface154of the lifter disk150, as shown inFIG. 64. The hinge body133can then be rotated freely on the raised bearing surface154of the lifter disk150, thereby permitting the door panel108to be rotated it is fully open, as shown inFIG. 65.

Advantageously, the geometry of the lifting disk150and hinge body133serves to raise the bottom of the door panel108above the cross bar17during most of the opening process, thus minimizing or eliminating frictional interference or “rub” between the bottom of the door panel108and the cross bar17. The ramp152of the disk150pushes the ramp146of the hinge body133upward, as shown inFIG. 62B, and once the hinge body133clears the top of the ramp152and drops down to rest on the raised bearing surface154, the remainder of the opening process is smooth.

Notably, the lifter disk150generally remains stationary in its natural state during the entire opening process. However, when the door panel108starts to close, the engagement tooth147(visible inFIG. 65) of the hinge body133eventually makes contact with the engagement tooth153of the lifter disk150(the state shown inFIG. 64). At this point, the weight of the door panel108pushing down on the lifter disk150tends to lock the engagement teeth147,153together, and further closing movement of the door causes the lifter disk150to rotate with the rotation of the door, against the biasing force of the torsion spring). Because the hinge body133is carried on the raised bearing surface154of the lifter disk150as the lifter disk150rotates, the bottom of the door panel108remains elevated above the cross bar17and above the opposite side hinge area, thereby making it easier to close the door panel180without frictional interference. Notably, the hinge body133and the rest of the hinge assembly130remain elevated even when the door panel108is fully closed and latched on the opposite side. Only when the bolts131are retracted and the hinge assemblies130released from the hinge pins161(such as when a user wishes to open the door assembly18in the opposite direction) is the hinge body130released from the engagement tooth153of the lifter disk150, at which point the torsion spring158biases the lifter disk150back to its natural state.

The latch assemblies110, hinge assemblies130, and hinge mounts160implement a latch mechanism by using a biased bolt and pin, thereby providing a slam function and keeping the door tightly closed. As described previously, the sloped surface of the bolt strike144collides with the sloped surface168of the pin161, thereby forcing the bolt131into the hinge body133until the end of the bolt131clears the top of the pin161, at which point it springs downward and traps the pin161in the hinge pin cavity145.

Many variations in the design of the door assemblies18and the hinge assemblies130and corresponding hinge mounts160. Parts shown herein may be made of specific materials, but could be made of any other material(s) that would be considered suitable or advantageous. In the particular design shown and described herein, the lifter disk150rotates relative to the end of the support arm11, while the lifting ramp146is static relative to the hinge body133. It will be appreciated, however, that these features could be switched, with a lifter disk (or its equivalent) carried by, and rotatable relative to, the hinge assembly or other portion of a door, and a lifting ramp that is mounted on, and static relative to, an end of the support arm.

In the particular design shown and described herein, the lifting function is achieved using a lifter disk, which is implemented as a rotational piece with a ramp and catch feature, wherein “tooth” geometry is provided on the hinge block and the lifter disk such that engagement between the structures rotates the lifter disk with the hinge when the door is closed. This tooth geometry is shown as an angled ramp surface with a radiused profile at the top and bottom of the ramp. In some embodiments, a rubber pad or other cushioning material or features could also be added in that area to soften the drop of the door during engagement of the teeth on the hinge and lifter. Furthermore, in various embodiments, the geometry could be changed in any way that still allows engagement and for the hinge and lifter to catch. Still further, in various embodiments, this function could be performed by any part on the frame or door that engages and disengages based on the current state of the door (opened left, opened right, closed, or the like). Such a part could, in various embodiments, rotate around an axis that is different from the one about which the door rotates, and in other embodiments could slide or otherwise move in a linear or other motion.

In the particular design shown and described herein, the lifter disk150is installed during general assembly of the cable manager10by simply snapping it into position, but in other embodiments it could also be attached by any other mechanical means that allows it to rotate. Likewise, the hinge assemblies are shown as being attached to the door using assembly screws136but could also be attached using another fastening method such as rivets or a snap feature. The hinge assemblies130and lifter disks150are shown as having left- and right-handed versions, but in other embodiments these elements could be designed to be the same on each side. Similarly, although the left- and right-handed hinge assemblies130are the same both top and bottom, in other embodiments they could be different. Still further, although lifter disks150are used at the bottom and lifter blanks159are used in corresponding locations at the top, in other embodiments they could be designed to be the same both top and bottom.

The latch mechanism shown uses a bolt and pin to allow a slam function and keep the door tightly closed. This also creates the axis around which the door hinges. However, in some embodiments, the latch mechanism could instead have a hinge pin on the door that is drawn up and down by the handle. This would interface with a corresponding hole, slot or feature on the frame to hold in place when engaged.

The latch currently uses a gear and rack assembly which is driven by a latch handle to pull the lock rods and lock bolts toward the center of the door. In some embodiments, however, this part of the design could be modified or replaced with any number of parts that perform the same function such as a simplified latch and lock rod assembly, a cable assembly, or any number of variations of latch assembly designs. The latch handle is shown as a lever on the rear face of the door, extending towards the outside edge. The handle, and corresponding latch assembly, could be placed on any face or edge of the door and be any geometry that allows a user to turn, lift, slide or otherwise move the latch handle to engage and disengage the latch assembly.

Advantageously, various embodiments of the cable manager design of the present invention use a rotating lifter to lift the door as it is opened. After the door is opened past a certain point, the hinge and the lifter engage and the hinge-side of the door is raised. The door is still in the raised state during the closing process, which enables the door to be closed without any interference with the frame or hinge area on the latching side. This allows the door to swing smoothly and freely, when closing, all the way through latch engagement. Subsequently, when the door is opened in the opposite direction, the previously engaged lifter finally returns to its natural position and the door is lifted onto the opposite lifter on the new hinge-side of the door. The invention also includes several aspects of improved functionality compared to previous door hinge designs, including smooth slam-latch capability. Various of these improvements are not limited to use with a cable manager door, but may be used in doors for other electronic equipment structures and even, in some cases, for other structures.

Based on the foregoing information, it will be readily understood by those persons skilled in the art that the present invention is susceptible of broad utility and application. Many embodiments and adaptations of the present invention other than those specifically described herein, as well as many variations, modifications, and equivalent arrangements, will be apparent from or reasonably suggested by the present invention and the foregoing descriptions thereof, without departing from the substance or scope of the present invention.