TELECOMMUNICATIONS MODULE ARRANGEMENTS

A telecommunications tray (50/300/400/600/900/1100/1200/1400/1800) is configured for mounting to a telecommunications fixture. The tray (50) includes a removably mounted telecommunications module (100/200/302/402/700/800/1000/1100/1300/1900/2000) that defines a body that is enclosed by a cover (1102/1320/1924) to define an interior. The module (100/200/302/402/700/800/1000/1100/1300/1900/2000) includes radius limiters (902/1356/1358/1954) within the interior for managing cables and defines connection locations for inputting and/or outputting signals via cables for processing within the module (100/200/302/402/700/800/1000/1100/1300/1900/2000), the telecommunications module (100/200/302/402/700/800/1000/1100/1300/1900/2000) movably mounted to the tray (50/300/400/600/900/1100/1200/1400/1800).

BACKGROUND

Communication systems utilize fiber optic cables to connect together pieces of telecommunications equipment. Telecommunications panels are used to optically couple fiber optic cables to cross-connect between various types of communications equipment. The demand for added capacity is growing rapidly. This demand is being met in part by the increasing use and density of fiber optic transmission equipment. Even though fiber optic equipment permits higher levels of transmission in the same or smaller footprint than traditional copper transmission equipment, the demand requires even higher levels of fiber density. In environments of higher fiber density, access, cleaning, and repair all can pose challenges.

Further development in such higher density fiber systems is desired.

SUMMARY

In accordance with some aspects of the disclosure, examples of telecommunications trays and modules are described. According to one example, a telecommunications tray is configured for mounting to a telecommunications fixture. The tray comprises a removably mounted telecommunications module that defines a body that is enclosed by a cover to define an interior, the telecommunications module including radius limiters within the interior for managing cables and defining connection locations for inputting and/or outputting signals via cables for processing within the module, the telecommunications module movably mounted to the tray.

According to another example aspect, the disclosure is directed to a telecommunications tray that is configured for mounting to a telecommunications fixture. The tray comprises a plurality of connection locations defined by fiber optic adapters for inputting and/or outputting signals via cables for processing, a cable overlength chamber including at least one radius limiter for managing cables therewithin, the cable overlength chamber enclosed by a cover to retain the cables within the overlength chamber, a plurality of radius limiters positioned outside of the cable overlength chamber for managing cables exiting from the fiber optic adapters to an exterior of the tray, and a tray hinge for removably and pivotally mounting the tray the telecommunications fixture.

According to other aspects of the disclosure, different examples of modules or cassettes are discussed that can be mounted in telecommunications fixtures such as trays. According to one example, such a telecommunications module or cassette may include a body that is enclosed by a cover to define an interior. Radius limiters may be provided within the interior for managing cables. The module may further define connection locations for inputting and/or outputting signals via cables for processing within the module, the telecommunications module further comprising a module hinge that is configured to mate with a hinge defined by the telecommunications fixture for allowing pivotal movement to the body of the telecommunications module relative to the telecommunications fixture.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring now toFIGS.1-50, examples of telecommunications equipment in the form of pivot trays that can be mounted in fiber distribution elements are illustrated. Such fiber distribution elements may be configured for connecting patch cables entering one side of the element to an incoming cable, such as a distribution cable or a feeder cable entering an opposite side of the element. Such elements carrying the pivot trays may be provided in the form of pull-out drawers that are slidably mounted in a stacked arrangement to telecommunications frames.

Examples of such slidable distribution elements that can support the trays discussed herein are described in PCT Publication Nos. WO 2014/118227; WO 2014/207210; and WO 2016/012550, the entireties of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

It should be noted that the examples of pivot trays that are discussed with respect toFIGS.1-50can include telecommunications modules or cassettes that provide the fiber distribution function. As will be discussed, in certain examples, such modules or cassettes are provided in a removable fashion with respect to the trays. In other examples, such modules or cassettes are integrally formed with or otherwise non-removably mounted to the pivot trays. And, in certain examples where the modules or cassettes are integrally formed with the pivot trays, the entire pivot tray can be considered the distribution module itself and can be mounted in the drawer-type elements that slide.

Referring now toFIGS.1-3, one example of a pivot tray50carrying an example fiber optic module100is illustrated. The example pivot tray and module arrangement is configured to allow the same tray50to be used for both left and right orientation for patching between an outside plant (OSP) side and equipment side.

In the illustrated example module, the module100may define a first plurality of adapters102(e.g., MPO adapters) that are configured to receive mating connectors104for receiving the OSP signal at the “fixed” side106and a second plurality of adapters108(e.g., LC adapters) that are configured to receive mating connectors110for the “flexible” distribution signal for the equipment side112.

As shown, the pivot tray50provides a cable path52and plurality of radius limiters54within that cable path52that can guide either the fixed side106or the flexible side112cabling toward either a right side56or a left side58of the tray50.

FIG.2illustrates that if the “fixed” OSP side106is going to be provided at the left side58of the tray50, cabling114that is terminated with the MPO connectors104are routed around the radius limiter54and in a direction from the front toward the back of the tray50and out the cable path52to the left side58of the tray50. And, as also shown inFIG.2, “flexible” equipment side cabling116can simply be routed around the radius limiters54and in a direction from the front toward the back of the tray50and out the cable path52to the right side56of the tray50.

If, for example, the “fixed” OSP side106is going to be provided at the right side56of the tray50, the cabling114that is terminated with the MPO connectors104are routed around the radius limiter54and out the cable path52to the right side56of the tray50, as illustrated inFIG.3. And, the “flexible” equipment side cabling116, which is added later on, crosses over the “fixed” side cabling114before leading out the left side58of the tray50as also shown inFIG.3.

It should be noted that although in the illustrated example, the “fixed” side signal entry is provided with adapters102that have an MPO format, other formats are certainly possible. The same concept is applicable to the “flexible” equipment side112. Also, the number of the adapters102/108can be varied based on the connectivity needs for the module100.

Referring specifically toFIGS.4-7, two different exemplary types of equipment that can be supported by a pivot tray50are shown.FIG.4illustrates a telecommunications module, similar to the module100discussed above, where connectorized cabling114can enter the module100via a first plurality of adapters102positioned on the front of the module100, and after processing within the module100, cables116exit via a different set of adapters, i.e., the second plurality of adapters108, positioned at the front of the module100. The module100is shown within the pivot tray50inFIG.5.

FIG.6illustrates a different type of equipment that can be mounted within the pivot tray. The equipment shown inFIG.6is a pre-cabled telecommunications cassette200where an incoming OSP cable202is pre-terminated to a cable block204, and after processing, equipment cables206exit via a set of adapters208positioned at the front of the cassette200.

As shown, the cable block204is configured with a width and a height such that it can fit within an adapter opening within the cassette200. In the illustrated example, the cable termination block204is configured wide enough to fit within the footprint of two MPO or a quad block of LC adapters208within the given cassette200, as shown inFIGS.6-8. The block204is illustrated with an integrated strain relief boot210for bend control.

FIG.9Ais an example of a telecommunications pivot tray300having features similar to that shown inFIGS.1-3. In the pivot tray300, a telecommunications module302has been completely integrated into the pivot tray300.FIG.9Billustrates a telecommunications pivot tray400similar to that ofFIG.9Awith a pre-cabled telecommunications cassette402, instead of a module302as inFIG.9A, having been integrally incorporated into the pivot tray.

FIG.9Cillustrates a variation on the telecommunications pivot tray300ofFIG.9Awith the cable entry point provided at a different location within the tray. In the example tray500illustrated inFIG.9C, the incoming fixed side OSP cables enter the module504thereof in a direction along back to front of the pivot tray500. And, the adapters506for a flexible equipment side cabling face in a perpendicular direction, toward the right side of the pivot tray500. It should be noted that even though the variation illustrated inFIG.9Cis shown to utilize a module504that is integrally formed with the pivot tray500, such a directional modification can be made on modules or cassettes that are to be removably attached to the pivot tray.

Referring now toFIGS.10-11, the example pivot tray600and telecommunications module700arrangements allows for cleaning access.FIG.12is an example of a pre-cabled telecommunications cassette800, rather than a telecommunications module, having features similar to those of the module700ofFIGS.10-11.

Referring toFIGS.13and14, in the example module700shown, the module700includes limited pivotability for accessing front connection locations702that have been provided in the form of adapters704as noted above. The module700includes a hinge706with hinge pins708positioned at the ends thereof. In the illustrated example, the hinge pins708are not fully circular and define a half-moon profile. The hinge706fits within a hinge slot602provided on the pivot tray600, with the hinge pins708fitting within hinge retainers604located at the sides of the hinge slot602, as shown inFIG.14. As shown, each hinge retainer604includes a receiving portion606that communicates with a pivot portion608. The receiving portion606is sized smaller than the pivot portion608and is sized to receive the hinge pin708through the receiving portion606into the pivot portion608when the module700is oriented in a vertical position with respect to the pivot tray600. After the hinge pins708of module hinge706pass through the receiving portion606into the pivot portion608of each hinge retainer604, pivotal rotation of the module700brings the hinge pins708underneath a lip610defined between the receiving portion606and the pivot portion608of the hinge retainers604and effectively locks the hinge706of the module700within the hinge slot602provided on the pivot tray600. In order to remove the module700, the module700has to be brought to a fully vertical position with respect to the pivot tray600, and the pins708have to be lifted off the hinge retainers604by passing through the receiving portions606of the hinge retainers604.

After the hinge pins708have been positioned within the hinge retainers604, as shown inFIGS.15-16, the module700is ready to be pivoted down and can be pivoted all the way down to a horizontal position within the pivot tray600. As noted above, the profile of the hinge pins708and the hinge retainers604allow a locking function for the module700when the module700is inserted and pivoted down from a vertical position.

Now referring toFIGS.15-19, the module700may be provided with a lower tab710and an upper tab712at both sides of the module700, adjacent a front714. The lower tab710defines a ramped face716angled downward and an flat upper face718. The upper tab712defines two opposed ramped faces720. A cross-sectional view of the lower and upper tabs710,712are illustrated inFIGS.17and19, showing the profiles thereof.

The lower and upper tabs710,712of the module700are configured to interact with a tab612positioned on the pivot tray600for providing limits to the pivotable movement of the module700for cleaning access. The profile of the pivot tray tab612is also shown inFIGS.17and19.

When the module700is brought down to a flat position, both the lower tab710and the upper tab712at the front714of the module700pass over the tab612that is positioned on the pivot tray600to lock the module700in a flat position within the tray600, shown inFIGS.16-17. If the module700has to be pivoted for cleaning access, the module700has to be unlocked.

As shown inFIG.18, the tray600can include an opening614positioned underneath the module700for allowing the front714of the module700to be pushed upwardly for unlocking the module700. Once unlocked for upward movement, the range of pivot travel for cleaning access is determined by the distance between the upper tab712and the lower tab710at the front714of module700, as illustrated byFIGS.18and19.

When the module700is in a completely flat position and when the module700needs to be pivoted upwardly, the upper ramped tab712has to once again clear the tab612of the tray600to unlock the module700for pivoting. However, the range of travel for the module700is set by contact of the tray tab612with the flat upper face718of the lower tab710of the module700, as shown inFIG.19. In certain embodiments, the range of pivotal travel is between about 1 and 10 degrees from a flat horizontal position. In certain other embodiments, the pivotal movement is limited to between about 2 and 8 degrees from the flat horizontal position. In yet other embodiments, the range of the pivotal movement is about 5 degrees from the flat horizontal position.

The module700can be pivoted upwardly until the flat upper face718of the lower tab710contacts a bottom face of the tab612on the tray600to stop the pivoting motion, as shown inFIG.19. If the module700needs to be completely removed from the pivot tray600, the contact force between the flat upper face718of the bottom tab710of the module700and the tab612of the tray600has to be overcome.

When cleaning is finished, the module700can be pivoted down to a completely flat horizontal position again, with the tray tab612once again passing over the upper tab712of the module700to completely lock the module700down, as shown inFIG.17.

The limited pivot range prevents pulling and stress on the cables that extend from the module700, while allowing for enough vertical upward movement for accessing the connectors.

It is also contemplated that a third tab might be added at the front714of the module700to interact with the tab612of the tray600to keep the module700in a pivoted, but, elevated position, rather than having a technician having to keep the module700raised with his or her hands.

Also, in certain other implementations, the pivot hinge706of the module700can have an axis that is parallel to the front or the back of the tray600so that slidable movement of the drawer that supports the tray600can be used as a fail-safe mechanism to ensure that a module or cassette is always in the pivoted-down, locked position when the drawer starts to slide. For example, a top cover of a panel can contact the module700and automatically pivot the module700down if the hinge was, for example, located at the rear wall of the tray600rather than at one of the sides. This could prevent pinching of any cables.

Another concept that allows for cleaning access to the telecommunications module or cassette is illustrated inFIGS.20-22. Instead of a pivot motion provided by one end of the tray, an example tray900may include a linkage system910that is used to both lift a module1000and move the module1000forward. This results in less pull or stress on the cabling extending from the module1000since the overall movement of the module1000results in a direction toward radius limiters902of the tray900. In the version illustrated inFIGS.20-22, the linkage system910is provided on the tray900and the module1000is removably mounted to the linkage system910in a nested orientation. The linkage system910is designed to support the module or cassette during the movement.

FIGS.23-27illustrate a variation on the concept shown inFIGS.20-22where an entire linkage mechanism1110is positioned on or integrated within a module or cassette1100instead of a tray1200itself. As shown in the version ofFIGS.23-27, both pivot linkages1112and a horizontal linkage1114are provided on the cassette1100. The horizontal linkage1114defines flexible cantilever tabs1116that can be snap-fit within notches1202provided on the tray1200. While the horizontal linkage1114stays locked with respect to the tray1200, the pivot linkages1112once again allow the cassette1100to be moved both upward and forward, similar to the embodiment discussed with respect toFIGS.20-22.

FIG.25is a front perspective view of the telecommunications cassette1100shown inFIGS.23-24with its cover1102, adapters1104, and cable termination block1106removed to illustrate the internal features thereof. The cassette1100is also shown without its linkage system1110.

Now referring toFIGS.28-45, another version of a cassette1300is illustrated. The illustrated cassette1300can be used within the pivot trays and can allow for certain functionality such as access, repair, and adapter bypass, as will be discussed in further detail below.

The cassette1300ofFIGS.28-45is shown as being a pre-cabled cassette that has an incoming OSP cable1302at a rear1304of the cassette1300and plurality of adapters1306positioned at a front1308of the cassette1300for distribution.

The fiber optic cassette1300includes a body1310defining an open front1312, a rear wall1314, a pair of sidewalls1316(i.e., right and left sidewalls), a bottom wall1318, and a top in the form of a removable cover1320(shown inFIGS.28-30), all defining an interior1322of the cassette1300.

As noted, a cable entry location1324is illustrated as being at the rear wall1314.

At the front1312of the cassette body1310, as shown, individual adapters1306are configured to be snap-fit to the cassette1300in a side-by-side configuration, closing off the front1312of the cassette1300.

The fiber optic adapters1306(e.g., SC format in the illustrated example) define dovetail structures1326that are received by retainer slots1328defined by the bottom wall1318of the cassette1300. As shown inFIGS.42-44, the retainer1328slots may be closed at one end by a flexible cantilever tab1330that acts as a slide stop or lock for the dovetail structures1326. The flexible cantilever tab1330has to be elastically flexed down when inserting or removing the dovetail structures1326of the adapters1306.

Other format types for the adapters are certainly possible as noted and illustrated for the above examples. In the illustrated example, the provided SC fiber optic adapters1306include completely flat sidewalls1332to minimize their width for allowing maximum density within a given footprint for that given format adapter.

The adapters1306provide connection locations for the cassette1300in receiving exterior fiber optic connectors for optically continuing the signals input into the cassette1300from the cabling1302entering at the rear1304of the cassette1300.

In general, the top defined by the cover1320(shown inFIGS.28-30) and the bottom wall1318of the cassette1300are generally parallel to each other and define the major surfaces of cassette body1310. Sidewalls1316, the front1312, and the rear wall1314define the minor sides of cassette body1310. The cassette1300can be oriented in the position shown inFIG.30within an example pivot tray1400. As noted above, other orientations are also possible and will be discussed in further detail below. The cover1320may be configured to be snap-fit to the cassette body1310or may be mounted with fasteners.

As noted previously, in the fiber optic cassette1300ofFIGS.28-45, fiber optic signals are input into the cassette1300via the fiber optic cable1302at the cable entry location1324. The cable1302entering the cassette1300is coupled to the cassette1300at the cable entry location1324with a crimp tube1334and a crimp ring1336(e.g., hex shaped) which crimps a jacket1338and the strength member of the cable1302to the crimp tube1334.

A pocket1340is defined at the cable entry location1324. The pocket1340is designed to capture the crimp tube1334for retention within the cassette body1310. The pocket1340also defines a portion1342shaped to receive the hex shaped ring1336to fix the cable1302with respect to the cassette body1310. The cover1320is configured to capture the cable1302once it is received within the pocket1340.

As shown, the pocket1340is provided in an inset portion1344defined at the center of right and left portions1346,1348of the rear wall1314of the cassette body1310. The portions1346,1348of the rear wall1314surrounding the pocket1340provide gradual curves as the portions1346,1348extend from the pocket1340to left and right of the rear wall1314. Thus, when the cable1302placed in the pocket1340is bent in either direction toward the right side or the left side of the cassette1300, bend radius protection is provided with the curved portions of the rear wall1314. This provides a built-in bend radius protection structure that may eliminate the need for a separate boot for the cable1302.

As will be discussed in further detail, in the interior1322, fibers1350that are broken out from cable1302may be connectorized (e.g., with connectors1352defining an SC format in the given example) and led toward the front1312of the cassette1300for coupling to rears of the adapters1306defined at the front1312of the cassette1300, wherein they can mate with exterior connectors coupled at the fronts of the adapters1306.

The interior connectors1352that have been terminated to the fibers1350extending from the input cable1302is illustrated inFIGS.31-34where the cassette1300is shown without its cover1320. According to the depicted embodiment, the interior connector1352is a connector that may be terminated to a 250 micron fiber extending into the cassette1300without a strain relief boot attached at the back of the connector1352. If enough room is provided within the cassette1300, internal connectors may also be standard connectors that include strain relief boots.

As shown, the interior1322of the cassette body1310of the cassette1300ofFIGS.28-45generally defines two distinct overlength chambers1354, each one including two side-by-side radius limiters1356,1358(e.g., in the form of spools) with cable retention fingers1359extending therefrom. As will be discussed, various fiber routing configurations are possible around the radius limiters1356,1358toward the front adapters1306, as the optical fibers1350are led from the input cable1302at the back.

In the version of the cassette1300shown inFIGS.28-45, each interior chamber1354defines a first bulkhead1360(e.g., an outer bulkhead). Each first bulkhead1360defines curved surfaces that cooperate with the curved portions of the rear wall1314on both sides of the cassette1300to define fiber routing pathways for the fibers1350broken out from the cable1302. At the front, the first bulkhead1360defines curved surfaces that cooperate with the curved surfaces of the radius limiters1356,1358to define fiber routing pathways. The first bulkhead1360also serves to separate the two chambers1354at the back of the cassette1300from the front adapters1306. A pathway1362is defined from the chambers1354toward the front between a side portion1364of the first bulkhead1360and each sidewall1316of the cassette body1310. The first bulkheads1360may also include cable retention fingers1359for retaining the fibers1350.

A second bulkhead1366(e.g., an inner bulkhead) extends right to left in each chamber1354with curved portions at the ends. The second bulkhead1366also cooperates with the spools1356,1358in each chamber1354for defining fiber pathways for routing of the fibers1350. The second bulkhead1366also includes cable retention fingers1359that face forwardly for retaining fibers1350around the spools1356,1358.

As shown inFIGS.31-33, each chamber1354within the cassette interior1322includes a splice support tray1368(i.e., splice protector) positioned between the rear portion of the first bulkhead1360and the second bulkhead1366. The splice protector1368can be used for factory-splicing, re-splicing, or the repairing of any damaged fibers1350within the interior1322of the cassette1300.

The splice protector1368may also be referred to as a repair splice protector since it may be used for the purpose of repair of fibers1350. If one of the connectors1352terminating the fibers1350broken out from input cable1302is damaged and needs replacement, the cover1320of the cassette1300can simply be removed, the damaged connector1352removed from the rear end of the corresponding adapter1306, and a new connector1352can be spliced to the corresponding fiber1350. The splice support tray or protector1368is configured to support such repair splices.

In the embodiment depicted inFIGS.31-33, each splice protector1368may be provided as a removable insert that is slidably mounted to the cassette body1310. In the depicted embodiment, each splice protector1368defines dovetail shaped tabs1370that are slidably inserted into complementary notches1372defined on the first and second bulkhead structures1360,1366when mounting the splice protector1368into the cassette1300.

The splice protector1368may define a plurality of separate channels1374for holding repair splices. Depending on the needed application, the splice protector1368can have different numbers of channels1374. The splice protector1368can frictionally hold the splices.

In the example embodiment illustrated inFIGS.31-33, each splice protector1368may house six smouv 45 mm splices, where the splices may be vertically stacked in each splice protector1368.

As discussed above, the fibers1350leading into the cassette body1310are provided with excess length between the cable crimp or entry location1324and the inner SC connectors1352coupled to the rears of the adapters1306for allowing reparability of the cassette1300. The excess length of optical fibers1350is managed via the radius limiters1356,1358within the cassette1300, as will be discussed below.

An example routing is shown inFIGS.32and42-45for fibers1350that are led to the left chamber1354within the cassette1300. A similar routing can be used for the right chamber1354. From the cable entry location1324, the fibers1350are led toward an internal wall defined by the first bulkhead1360. The fibers1350are then directed back toward the rear of the cassette1300and around the outer spool1356. Once the fibers1350are routed around the outer spool1356, the fibers1350are led back toward the front and along the internal side of an internal wall defined by the first bulkhead1360toward the center of the cassette1300. The fibers1350then lead back toward the rear of the cassette1300and around the pathway1362defined between the first bulkhead1360and the outer walls of the cassette1300(e.g., the rear wall1314and the sidewalls1316) and finally toward the front of the cassette1300to the adapters1306.

As shown inFIG.32, the fibers1350that are routed within the right chamber1354are led to the group of adapters1306that are on the right side and the fibers1350that are routed within the left chamber1354are led to the group of adapters1306that are on the left side.

When a splice operation is needed, as shown inFIG.33, the pathway1362is used for facilitating uncoiling the fiber1350to be spliced without interfering with the rest of the overlength chamber1354.

When a splice needs to be performed in the left chamber1354, a fiber1350to be repaired, instead of being led into the pathway1362from the outer and inner spools1356,1358initially as illustrated inFIGS.42-45, will be lead from the outer spool1356, along the internal side of the internal wall of the first bulkhead1360, around the inner spool1358to the right side of the splice protector1368. After being spliced at the splice protector1368, the spliced fiber1350will once again be routed toward the front of the cassette1300, and along the internal side of the internal wall of the first bulkhead1360, around both of the radius limiters1356,1358and into the pathway1362. A similar routing, but in the opposite direction, can be implemented for a fiber1350to be spliced in the right chamber1354.

As noted above, the pathway1362defined between the first bulkhead1360and the outer walls of the cassette1300(e.g., the rear wall1314and the sidewalls1316) allows for easy uncoiling when needed for a splice. As shown inFIG.33, when a repair is needed, the fiber1350can simply be cut from the internal connector1352and the fiber1350that is positioned within the pathway1362can be unwrapped. The unwrapped portion that is within the pathway1362provides plenty of fiber length for re-splicing without having to uncoil fiber1350from the chambers1354that have the two radius limiters1356,1358.

Referring now toFIGS.34-44, as noted above, the removability of the fiber optic adapters1306that are used in the front1312of the cassette1300allow a cable termination unit (i.e., CTU)1500to be provided in place of an adapter1306. The snap-in CTU1500is illustrated in detail inFIGS.37-39.

The CTU1500provides the advantage of being able to provide an adapter bypass for a hard splice depending upon the connectivity needs of a customer. For example, if a customer did not want to use an adapter1306for the connection between the OSP cable1302and the front side1312of the cassette1300, the CTU1500can be used as an adapter bypass for a hard connection from the OSP cable1302.

The CTU1500can also be used for repair purposes.

The CTU1500as shown inFIGS.37-39, defines a body1502that has the same overall width as one of the adapters1306used at the front1312of the cassette1300. The body1502defines similar dovetail mounting structures1504underneath thereof for removable mounting of the CTU1500to the cassette1300with a snap-fit interlock.

The CTU body1502defines an entry point1506for a cable1508at a rear end1510. From the entry point1506, a central cable channel1512is defined along the body1502, extending to a cable exit1514at a front1516. Strength member channels1518are provided adjacent the central cable channel1512. The strength member channels1518are defined by a pair of bulkheads1520that form the central cable channel1512. The bulkheads1520are used for wrapping strength members1522of the cable1508therearound in a rear-to-front direction and clamping the strength members1522to a main jacket portion1524of the cable1508with a tie wrap1526to the body1502of the CTU1500. A tie-wrap notch1528is provided toward the front1516of the CTU body1502with an anchor wall1530that centrally divides the tie-wrap notch1528. The anchor wall1530is used for anchoring the tie wrap1526and thus the strength member1522and the cable jacket1524to the CTU1500once the strength member1522has been wrapped around one of the bulkheads1520. A protective sleeve1532may be used around the cable jacket1524as shown inFIG.38before using the tie wrap1526.

The CTU1500, even though shown with a single cable1508for an SC format connector, may also accommodate two cables in a vertically stacked position, such as for LC format connectors/adapters.

FIGS.46-50illustrate another version of a telecommunications cassette1600that can be used within a pivot tray as noted above. The cassette1600has features similar to the cassette1300described above with respect toFIGS.28-45in that a crimp1602for the OSP cable1601is mounted to a body1604of the cassette1600with fibers1606extending into an interior1608and leading to adapters1610at a front1612. In the version of the cassette1600illustrated inFIGS.46-50, a cable input location1614is provided at a side1616of the cassette1600. An overlength cable management chamber1618is provided at a rear1620of the cassette1600, as shown inFIGS.47-50where the cassette1600is shown without a cover1622. As shown, for a cassette1600that has a right side cable entry1614, fibers1606coming in are initially routed toward a left spool1624and around the left spool1624and then around a right spool1626within a pathway1628that is defined between rear and side outer walls1630,1632of the cassette1600and an internal bulkhead1634defining the overlength cable management chamber1618. From the pathway1628, all of the fibers1606are lead toward the front adapters1610.

As shown inFIGS.48-50, a repair tray1636may be positioned above the overlength chamber1618. The repair tray1636initially is not populated with fibers1606and may act as a demarcation cover keeping the repaired fiber(s)1606separate from the initial overlength fibers1606underneath. In this manner, when a repair is being made, the splice area stays completely isolated and the live fibers1606that are underneath the demarcation cover1636are not disturbed. The repair tray1636may be permanently mounted to the cassette1600and prevented from removal such that the tray1636is only used when a repair splice is needed without accessing the live fibers1606.

The main cover1622can be used on the cassette1600to keep the adapters1610and the repair tray1636within the cassette body1604.

A repaired fiber1606and replacement connector1638are shown inFIG.49using the repair tray1636within the cassette1600.

A splice through an adapter bypass operation is shown inFIG.50using the repair tray1636within the cassette1600and a CTU1500similar to that discussed above with respect toFIGS.37-39.

Referring now toFIG.51, an example fiber distribution element1700including a pair of pivot trays1800, wherein each tray1800houses a telecommunications module1900removably mounted within the tray1800is illustrated. The depicted pivot tray and telecommunications module arrangement that is housed by the fiber distribution element1700includes features similar to those illustrated inFIGS.10-19that allow pivotal access to the module for cleaning.

As noted above, fiber distribution elements, such as the element1700shown inFIG.51, may be configured for connecting patch cables entering one side of the element1700to an incoming cable, such as a distribution cable or a feeder cable entering an opposite side of the element1700. Such elements1700carrying the pivot trays1800may be provided in the form of pull-out drawers that are slidably mounted in a stacked arrangement to telecommunications frames.

Examples of such slidable distribution elements1700that can support the trays1800discussed herein are described in PCT Publication Nos. WO 2014/118227; WO 2014/207210; and WO 2016/012550, the entireties of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

As noted above, the pivot tray and telecommunications module arrangement that is housed by the fiber distribution element1700depicted inFIG.51includes features similar to those of the arrangement illustrated inFIGS.10-19except for a number of differences that will be described in detail below.

Still referring toFIG.51, as shown, the distribution element1700and the pivotally mounted trays1800cooperatively provide a cable path1802and a plurality of radius limiters1804within that cable path1802that can guide cabling from both the right and left sides of the element1700toward front connection locations1902defined by the module1900.FIG.52illustrates one of the pivot trays1800removed from the distribution element1700and in isolation. And, the module1900is shown with connectors1904having been coupled to front adapters1906defining the connection locations1902of the module1900within the tray1800.

One difference that is provided by the pivot tray and the module arrangement shown inFIG.51is that a hinge axis1908is provided adjacent a back end1806of the tray1800, where the module1900is pivotally liftable in a front-to-back direction rather being hinged at one of the sides. In the arrangement shown inFIG.51, the module1900is pivotally liftable from a front end1903of the module1900utilizing a pair of finger tabs1909as illustrated.

The arrangement of the module1900where a hinge1911is positioned at the back end1806of the tray1800also provides an automatic safety feature, where an upper panel of the chassis of the distribution element1700will automatically push down the module1900if the module1900is in a pivoted-up position when the drawer of the element1700is being closed. Provision of the hinge1911at the back end1806of the tray1800and positioning of the adapters1906at the front1903of the module1900also allows for both right and left compatibility for cabling, and provides a more universal directional solution as compared to the arrangement shown inFIGS.10-19.

It should be noted that the tray1800and the module1900shown inFIG.51may include similar hinge structures and functionality as those described above with respect to the tray and module arrangement shown inFIGS.10-19. And, similar to the tray and module arrangement shown inFIGS.10-19, the range of pivotal travel of the module1900may be between about 1 and 10 degrees from a flat horizontal position. In certain other embodiments, the pivotal movement may be limited to between about 2 and 8 degrees from the flat horizontal position. In yet other embodiments, the range of the pivotal movement may be about 5 degrees from the flat horizontal position.

FIG.53illustrates a side perspective view of the pivot tray1800, with the module1900in a non-pivoted position, andFIG.54illustrates the pivot tray1800with the module1900in a pivoted position for cleaning access.

Regarding the pivotal arrangement of the module1900and the tray1800,FIGS.55-57illustrate the module1900in isolation removed from the tray1800, andFIGS.62-63illustrate the tray1800in isolation in an empty configuration.

Regarding the pivotal arrangement between the module1900and the tray1800,FIGS.55-57and62-63will generally be referred to. Referring specifically now toFIGS.62-63, tray1800defines on each side of a module pocket1808a rear cantilever snap1810, a center cantilever snap1812, and a front cantilever snap1814. All of the cantilever snaps1810,1812,1814are elastically flexible structures that are configured to deform elastically when cooperating with features of the module1900during the pivotal movement of the module1900for cleaning access, as will be described in further detail below.

Now referring toFIGS.55-57, the module1900, on each side, defines a rear tab1910, a center tab1912, and a front tab1914. As will be described in further detail below, the rear cantilever snap1810of the tray1800is configured to cooperate with the rear tab1910of the module1900to snap-lock the module1900to the tray1800while allowing a limited amount of travel as noted above. The center cantilever snap1812of the tray1800is configured to cooperate with the center tab1912of the module1900to temporarily lock the module1900in a lifted position. And, the front cantilever snap1814of the tray1800is configured to cooperate with the front tab1914of the module1900to temporarily lock the module1900in a horizontal flush position.

Regarding the interaction between the rear cantilever snap1810of the tray1800and the rear tab1910of the module1900, a pair of cross-sectional views provided inFIGS.69-70illustrate that the rear cantilever snap1810of the tray1800and the rear tab1910of the module1910define opposing, angled, intergripping hook structures1807,1907, respectively. As shown, the angle of the hook structures1807,1907may be between 20-45 degrees from the horizontal. The hook structures1807,1907prevent or limit removal of the module1900from the tray1800even if a lifting force is applied to the module1900when the module1900is at its uppermost position on the tray1800. Opposing angled surfaces1813,1913, respectively defined by the hook structures1807,1907, limit any transverse deflection of the rear cantilever snap1810of the tray1800and the rear tab1910of the module1900when the module1900is forced upward beyond its highest pivoted point. As shown inFIGS.69-70, while the surfaces that are on the opposing side from the angled “hook” surfaces1813,1913facilitate initial mounting of the module1900into the tray1800due to the cooperating angles of those surfaces, the angled “hook” surfaces1813,1913prevent or limit removal of the module unless a tool is used to deflect the rear cantilever snap1810of the tray1800sideways in order to clear the hook structure1907of the module1900from the hook structure1807of the tray1800.

As also illustrated inFIGS.69-70, both the rear cantilever snap1810of the tray1800and the rear tab1910of the module1900define elongate portions1805,1905, respectively, that allow limited amount of pivotal travel for the module1900with respect to the tray1800. However, once the angled “hook” surfaces1813,1913contact each other at the top end of the module travel, the module1900cannot be removed from the tray1800(even with the application of further lifting forces) without using a tool to deflect the rear cantilever snap1810in a sideways direction as noted above.

Regarding the interaction between the center cantilever snap1812of the tray1800and the center tab1912of the module1900, as noted above, these two structures cooperate to at least temporarily lock the module1900in a lifted position with respect to the tray1800. As shown for the module1900inFIGS.55-57, the center tab1912of the module1900defines a sharper angled lower ramp surface1916(relative to the vertical) and a shallower angled upper ramp surface1918(relative to the vertical). According to certain embodiments, the angled lower ramp surface1916may be about 30 degrees from the horizontal while the angled upper ramp surface1918may be about 60 degrees from the horizontal.

The shallower-angled upper ramp surface1918allows for easier deflection of the center cantilever snap1812of the tray1800when lifting the module1900. And, when the module1900has been lifted to its upper position (to the point where the angled “hook” surfaces1813,1913of the rear cantilever snap1810of the tray1800and the rear tab1910of the module1900contact each other), the center tab1912will be at a position where the center tab1912has cleared the center cantilever snap1812of the tray1800. At this lifted position, the sharper-angled lower ramp surface1916makes it more difficult to deflect the center cantilever snap1812of the tray1800if the module1900is once again pushed down. In this manner, the module1900is at least temporarily locked in the upper position. Since the lower ramp surface1916is not a “hook” surface and is still an angled ramped surface, if the module1900is pushed hard enough downwardly, the ramped surface1916will start deflecting the center cantilever snap1812of the tray1800sideways to start allowing movement of the module1900downwardly. The differences of the angles between the upper ramp surface1918and the lower ramp surface1916simply allow easier deflection during upward movement versus the downward movement.

Regarding the interaction between the front cantilever snap1814of the tray1800and the front tab1914of the module1900, these two structures cooperate to perform the opposite function as that of the center cantilever snap1812and the center tab1912. The front cantilever snap1814of the tray1800and the front tab1914of the module1900cooperate to at least temporarily lock the module1900in a horizontal flush position with respect to the tray1800. As will be described below, the angles of the ramped surfaces of the front tab1914of the module1900are reversed with respect to the angles of the ramped surfaces of the center tab1912of the module1900since the main function of the front tab1914of the module1900is to keep the module1900in a flush horizontal position.

As shown inFIGS.55-57, the front tab1914of the module1900defines a shallower angled lower ramp surface1920(relative to the vertical) and a sharper angled upper ramp surface1922(relative to the vertical). According to certain embodiments, the angled lower ramp surface1920may be about 60 degrees from the horizontal while the angled upper ramp surface1922may be about 30 degrees from the horizontal.

The shallower-angled lower ramp surface1920allows for easier deflection of the front cantilever snap1814of the tray1800when pushing the module1900down to a flat position. And, when the module1900has been pushed down flush with the tray1800, the front tab1914will be at a position where the front tab1914has cleared and is positioned below a cooperating surface of the front cantilever snap1814of the tray1800. At this flush position, the sharper-angled upper ramp surface1922makes it more difficult to deflect the front cantilever snap1814of the tray1800if the module1900is once again lifted up. In this manner, the module1900is at least temporarily locked in the horizontal position. Since the upper ramp surface1922is not a “hook” surface and is still an angled ramped surface, if the module1900is pulled hard enough upwardly (via the front finger tabs1909), the ramped surface1922will start deflecting the front cantilever snap1814of the tray1800sideways to start allowing movement of the module1900upwardly. The differences of the angles between the lower ramp surface1920and the upper ramp surface1922simply allow easier deflection during the downward movement versus the upward movement.

Another difference between the embodiment of the module1900shown inFIGS.51-65and the module700shown inFIGS.10-19is that, as noted above, the connection locations1902, defined by fiber optic adapters1906, are front facing, as opposed to side facing. In the embodiment of the module1900shown inFIGS.51-65, the depicted fiber optic adapters1906are multi-fiber adapters in an MPO format. In the illustrated example, seven MPO adapters1906are provided, although other numbers are certainly possible.

The front finger tabs1909that can be used for pivoting the module1900upwardly or downwardly are shown as being positioned on both sides of a center MPO adapter1906.

FIGS.66-70illustrate a module2000that is a variation on the module1900ofFIGS.51-65that includes four duplex adapters2006at the patching side. The four duplex adapters2006are in the form of duplex MPO adapters and are provided in the front of the module2000with a finger tab2009that is used for lifting the module2000positioned at the center of the four duplex adapters2006.

It should be noted that all of the features discussed above and that will also be discussed below with respect to the module1900ofFIGS.51-65, including features of pivotal movement, are fully applicable to and can be used on the module2000illustrated inFIGS.66-70.

Referring now toFIGS.56and57, as shown, the module1900(as well as the module2000ofFIGS.66-70) may include a snap-fit cover1924. The cover1924is shown in isolation inFIGS.64and65. As shown, cover1924may define downwardly extending snap tabs1926that are configured to cooperate with snap hooks1928provided around the periphery of a module main body1930. The snap hooks1928are provided at notched portions1932around the periphery of the module main body1930such that when the cover1924is snap-fit onto the module1900, the snap tabs1926lie flush against the sidewalls of the module main body1930to retain the width and length of the module1900. The cover1924also includes fastener openings1934that cooperate with bosses1936provided within the module main body1930for fastening the cover1924down to the module1900.

InFIGS.58-59, the module1900is shown with the cover1924removed to illustrate the internal features thereof. And,FIG.60illustrates the module1900in an empty configuration with the front adapters1906and the fiber optic equipment removed therefrom, withFIG.61illustrating the bottom view of the empty module main body1930.

As shown inFIGS.58-61, the adapters1906are mounted to a front wall1938of the module1900. The rear ends of the adapters1906that are positioned within the module1900are provided within a pocket1940that allows easier finger access to internal connectors that may be coupled to the rear ends of the adapters1906. A curved wall1942separates the internal connectors from a rear cable spooling area1944. The rear cable area1944defines a number of parallel compartment divider walls1946to facilitate splitting and the grouping of a large number of fiber optic equipment such as filters1948that may be provided within the module1900. The divider walls1946that define smaller compartments1950within the rear area1944may provide extra support for the large number of filters1948that can be stacked within the module1900(as shown inFIGS.58-59) and prevent or limit the amount of filters1948that may become loose during shock or vibration to the module1900. According to certain embodiments, other equipment such as splices may be mounted on top of the filters1948within the compartments1950before being captured by the cover1924. Even though the module1900is shown with fiber optic equipment such as filters1948within the rear area1944of the module1900, it should be noted that other types of equipment may be provided depending on the desired circuitry for the module1900.

Surfaces1952provided in between the compartment divider walls1946may include rough texturing for improved glue adhesion when populating the module1900with equipment such as filters1948.

As shown, two radius limiters1954are provided adjacent the right and left sides of the module main body1930to provide various cable routing configurations for cables extending between the front connection locations1902and the fiber optic equipment provided within the module1900.

The rear cabling area1944of the module1900also includes a front cable passage1956between the curved wall1942and the front compartment divider wall1946and a rear cable passage1958between a rear wall1960of the module main body1930and the rear compartment divider wall1946. The front and rear cable passages1956,1958allow cabling to pass between the right and left sides of the module1900while the radius limiters1954provide for bending protection.

As provided for the front adapters1906, the fiber optic equipment may also be provided within a rear pocket1962that increases the overall height of the compartment for housing such equipment. As shown in the bottom view inFIG.61, such pockets1962may define bumps1964at a bottom wall1966of the module main body1930that protrude past a first horizontal surface1968defined by the bottom wall1966of the module main body1930. The bumps1964may fit within cutouts1816defined by a bottom wall1818of the pivot tray1800such that the overall height of the combination of the pivot tray1800and a mounted module1900is not increased when the module1900is mounted within the tray1800.

Having described the preferred aspects and implementations of the present disclosure, modifications and equivalents of the disclosed concepts may readily occur to one skilled in the art. However, it is intended that such modifications and equivalents be included within the scope of the claims which are appended hereto.