DEVICES FOR CABLE MANAGEMENT

The present application is directed to a cable reel assembly. The assembly includes a center hub member having a main body with four side walls and two coiler section members. Opposing side walls of the center hub member each have an aperture or slot. Each coiler section member includes an arcuate base member having a securing mechanism extending radially inward therefrom and opposing side walls extend radially outwardly from the base member. The opposing side walls are spaced apart to define a channel configured to receive and hold one or more trunk cables therein. The securing mechanism is configured to releasably interlock with a corresponding aperture or slot of the center hub member to secure the respective coiler section member to the center hub member. The assembly is configured such that one or more trunk cables can be wrapped around and held within the channels of the coiler section members.

FIELD

The present invention relates to telecommunications equipment, and more particular to, cable reel assemblies for storing cables at a wireless installation site.

BACKGROUND

As shown in FIGS. 1A-1B, current common methods for coiling excess cables 12 at the installation site 10, 10 include metal snap-in hangers with grommets 14 and/or oversized hanger blocks 16 Additional methods may include tie wraps, hooks or loop ties. These coiling methods may create issues such as exceeding the minimum bending radius for the cable, not properly supporting the cables, and poor cable routing. In addition, the use of metal components near an antenna on cell sites can be a source of unwanted passive intermodulation (PIM) in the modern radio frequency (RF) environment. There are polymeric cable reel assemblies (or coilers) currently available on the market that reduce costs and allow for easy installation, while alleviating technical performance concerns, such as, PIM. An exemplary cable reel assembly 20 and corresponding assembly cover 25 that are currently available are illustrated in FIG. 2 See also, e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 11,345,564 to A sh et al., the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. However, many of these cable reel assemblies are formed as a single injection-molded component, for which the molds used during manufacturing are very large and expensive.

SUMMARY

A first aspect of the present invention is directed to a cable reel assembly. The cable reel assembly includes a center hub member having a main body with four side walls and two coiler section members. Opposing side walls of the main body of the center hub member each have an aperture or slot. Each coiler section member includes an arcuate base member having a securing mechanism extending radially inward therefrom and opposing side walls extend radially outwardly from the base member. The opposing side walls are spaced apart to define a channel configured to receive and hold one or more trunk cables therein. The securing mechanism is configured to releasably interlock with a corresponding aperture or slot of the center hub member to secure the respective coiler section member to the center hub member. The cable reel assembly is configured such that one or more trunk cables can be wrapped around and held within the channels of the coiler section members.

Another aspect of the present invention is directed to a cable reel assembly. The cable reel assembly includes a center hub member having a main body with four side walls, four adapter extension members, each adapter extension member coupled to a side wall of the center hub member, and four coiler section members. Each coiler section member includes an arcuate base member having a securing mechanism extending radially inward therefrom and a pair of spaced apart side walls extend radially outwardly from the base member. The side walls define a channel configured to receive and hold one or more trunk cables therein. The securing mechanism is configured to releasably interlock with a corresponding aperture or slot of a respective adapter extension member to secure the respective coiler section member to the adapter extension member. The cable reel assembly further includes four extension support members, each extension support member resides between adjacent coiler section members and are configured to couple the adjacent coiler section members together. The cable reel assembly is configured such that one or more trunk cables can be wrapped around and held within the channels of the coiler section members.

Another aspect of the present invention is directed to a cable hanger adapter. The cable hanger adapter includes a main body having a first side and opposing second side and six side walls, each side wall having at least one aperture or slot configured to receive a securing mechanism from a first corresponding mounting component for a cable mounting assembly. The cable hanger adapter further includes a securing mechanism extending outwardly from the first side of the main body, the securing mechanism configured to engage with a second corresponding mounting component for the cable mounting assembly and a mounting aperture on the second side of the main body, the mounting aperture configured to receive a securing mechanism for a third corresponding mounting component for the cable mounting assembly.

Another aspect of the present invention is directed a cable reel assembly. The cable reel assembly includes a base member having four side walls, two or more adapter extension members, an end of each adapter extension member engaged with a respective side wall of the base member; and two or more coiler section members, each coiler section member engaged with an opposing end of a respective adapter extension member, and each coiler section member having a channel sized and configured to receive and hold a cable wrapped around the cable reel assembly.

It is noted that aspects of the invention described with respect to one embodiment, may be incorporated in a different embodiment although not specifically described relative thereto. That is, all embodiments and/or features of any embodiment can be combined in any way and/or combination. Applicant reserves the right to change any originally filed claim and/or file any new claim, accordingly, including the right to be able to amend any originally filed claim to depend from and/or incorporate any feature of any other claim or claims although not originally claimed in that manner. These and other objects and/or aspects of the present invention are explained in detail in the specification set forth below. Further features, advantages and details of the present invention will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art from a reading of the figures and the detailed description of the preferred embodiments that follow, such description being merely illustrative of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the figures, certain layers, components, or features may be exaggerated for clarity, and broken lines illustrate optional features or operations unless specified otherwise. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art.

Embodiments of the present invention are directed to devices for cable management that may be compatible with existing cable mounting assemblies. Embodiments of the present invention will now be described in further detail below with reference to FIG. 3A through FIG. 37B.

Referring to FIGS. 3A-3C and FIGS. 4A-4D, a cable reel assembly 100 according to embodiments of the present invention is illustrated. In some embodiments, the cable reel assembly 100 may be configured to hold one or more discrete cables 12 (e.g., one or more trunk cables 12 coiled around the cable reel assembly 100) (see, e.g., FIG. 3B and FIG. 4D). In some embodiments, the cable reel assembly 100 comprises two coiler section members 110 that are coupled to a center hub member 130 As shown in FIGS. 3A-3B and FIG. 4D, when the coiler section members 110 are engaged with the center hub member 130, the cable reel assembly 100 may have a generally cylindrical shape configured such that the one or more cables 12 may be wrapped or coiled around the assembly 100

As shown in FIGS. 4A-4B, as discussed in further detail below, in some embodiments, each coiler section member 110 comprises one or more securing mechanisms 115 that are configured to engage the center hub member 130, thereby interlocking the coiler section members 110 with the center hub member 130 to form the cable reel assembly 100. For example, in some embodiments, the one or more securing mechanisms 115 may be protrusions that are configured to engage with a corresponding aperture 135 in the center hub member 130 to interlock the coiler section members 110 to the center hub member 130 (see, e.g., FIG. 4B).

In some embodiments, the cable reel assembly 100 may further comprise a cover 150 As shown in FIG. 4C, the cover 150 may be annular or ring-shaped. The cover 150 is configured to fit around the two coiler section members 110. As discussed in further detail below, in some embodiments, each coiler section member 110 may comprise one or more latching features 117 that are configured to secure the cover 150 to the cable reel assembly 100 (see, e.g., FIG. 12D). As shown in FIG. 4D, when a cover 150 is installed on the cable reel assembly 100, one or more openings 102 between the coiler section members 110 allow the cables 12 to be routed into or out of the cable reel assembly 100.

According to embodiments of the present invention, two more cable reel assemblies 100 may be secured together in a stacked relationship to conserve space. As discussed in further detail below, coupling mechanisms 140a, 140b of the center hub member 130 may allow for multiple cable reel assemblies 100 to be secured together (see, e.g., FIGS. 9A-9B). For example, FIG. 5 and FIG. 6B illustrate three cable 1001-3 stacked together according to embodiments of the present invention (see also FIG. 7C). According to embodiments of the present invention, one or more of the cable reel assemblies 1001-3 may be secured to a mounting structure 50 (e.g., a mounting pole). FIG. 6A illustrates a single cable reel assembly 100 secured to a mounting pole 50 utilizing a pair of mounting clamps 60 according to embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 6B illustrates three cable reel assemblies 1001-3 stacked together and secured to a mounting pole 50 utilizing a pair of mounting clamps 60 according to embodiments of the present invention. As shown in FIGS. 6A-6B, in some embodiments, to secure one or more cable assemblies 1001-3 to the mounting pole 50, a pair of fasteners 62 (e.g., rods or bolts) of the mounting clamps 60 are received through apertures 112a in the cable reel assembly 100 as the outer diameter of the mounting pole 50 is received within recesses 111 in the cable reel assembly 100.

FIG. 7A illustrates exemplary anti-theft devices 901-3 according to embodiments of the present invention that may be utilized with the cable reel assembly 100 Each anti-theft device 901-3 comprises a planar main body 92 having a flanged end 96 The main body 92 comprises a plurality of apertures 94 configured to receive a padlock or like locking mechanism. As shown FIG. 7A, the anti-theft devices 901-3 have different lengths to accommodate a single cable reel assembly 100 (FIG. 7B) or multiple cable reel assemblies 1001-3 (i.e., stacked together) (FIG. 7C). As shown in FIGS. 7B-7C, the anti-theft device(s) 901-3 may slide into any open channel within the center hub member 130 or coiler section member(s) 110 until engaged by the flanged end 96 A locking mechanism (e.g., padlock) (not shown) may then be inserted through a respective aperture 94 in the main body 92 to deter the removal of the one or more cable assemblies 1001-3.

An exemplary center hub member 130 of the cable reel assembly 100 is illustrated in greater detail in FIGS. 8A-8G. As shown in FIGS. 8A-8G, in some embodiments, the center hub member 130 has a generally square main body 132 having four side walls 134. One or more of the side walls 134 comprise at least one aperture or slot 135. As shown in FIGS. 8A, 8C, &E and &F, in some embodiments, each side wall 134 comprises two apertures 135. As noted above, and as shown in FIGS. 4A-4B, in some embodiments, each aperture 135 is configured to receive a corresponding securing mechanism 115 of a coiler section member 110. In some embodiments, each aperture 135 may have a T-shape which allows a respective securing mechanism 115 of the coiler section member 110 to be received by an upper opening 135a of the aperture 135 and slide within the perpendicular opening 135b of the aperture 135 (see, e.g., FIG. &E) to engage the respective securing mechanism 115 within the aperture 135, and as a result, secure the respective coiler section member 110 to the center hub member 130

As further shown in FIGS. 8A-8G, in some embodiments, the center hub member 130 may comprise a first pair of coupling members 136 extending outwardly from one end of the main body 132 In some embodiments, the center hub member 130 may further comprise a second pair of coupling members 138 extending outwardly from an opposing end of the main body 132 In other embodiments, opposing ends of the main body 132 of the center hub member 130 may comprise one coupling member 136, 138 extending outwardly therefrom. As discussed in further detail below, in some embodiments, the first pair of coupling members 136 from a first center hub member 1301 may be configured to engage with the second pair of coupling members 138 from a second identical center hub member 1302, thereby allowing multiple center hub members 130 (and cable reel assemblies 100) to be stacked together (see, e.g., FIG. 5, FIG. 6B, FIG. 7C and FIG. 9A).

As shown in FIGS. 8A-8B, in some embodiments, the first pair of coupling members 136 may comprise a first coupling mechanism 140a residing at an end 136e of each coupling member 136 In some embodiments, the first coupling mechanism 140a may comprise a T-shaped protrusion 142a residing between two spaced apart latching members 144a As shown in FIGS. 8C-8D, the second pair of coupling members 138 may comprise a second coupling mechanism 140b residing at an end 138e of each coupling member 138 In some embodiments, the second coupling mechanisms 140b may each comprise a pair of spaced apart engaging members 144b having a channel 142b extending therebetween.

In some embodiments, the first coupling mechanisms 140a of the first pair of coupling members 136 of a first center hub member 1301 is configured to engage with the second coupling mechanisms 140b of the second pair of coupling members 136 for a second identical center hub member 1302. For example, in some embodiments, an end of the T-shaped protrusion 142a of the first coupling mechanism 140a is configured to be received by the channel 142b of the second coupling mechanism 140b as the engaging members 144b of the second coupling mechanism 140b are received by the latching members 144a of the first coupling mechanism 140a (see, e.g., FIG. 9B). In some embodiments, the first coupling mechanisms 140a are configured to form an interference fit with the second pair of coupling members 136 to secure multiple center hub members 1301-3 together in a stacked relationship (see, e.g., FIG. 9A). In some embodiments, each of the engaging members 144b of the second coupling mechanism 140b may comprise one or more protrusions 146b extending into the channel 142b. The protrusions 146b of the second coupling mechanism 140b may be configured to engage the T-shaped protrusion 142a of the first coupling mechanism 140a when the T-shaped protrusion 142a is inserted into the channel 142b, thereby creating an interference fit between the first and second coupling mechanisms 140a, 140b.

FIG. 9A shows three center hub member 1301-3 arranged together in a stacked relationship according to embodiments of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 9A, the first pair of coupling members 1361 for the first center hub member 1301 is engaged with the second pair of coupling members 1382 for the second center hub member 1302, and the first pair of coupling members 1362 for the second center hub member 1302 is engaged with the second pair of coupling members 1383 for the third center hub member 1303

FIG. 9B is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A in FIG. 9A. FIG. 9B illustrates the first coupling mechanism 140a of the first pair of coupling members 1361 for the first center hub member 1301 interlocked with the second coupling mechanism 140b of the second pair of coupling members 1382 for the second center hub member 1302. As shown in FIG. 9B, the T-shaped protrusions 142a1 of the first coupling mechanisms 140a1 are received by the channels 142b2 of the second coupling mechanisms 140b2 while the protrusions 146b2 of the engaging members 144b2 contact the T-shaped protrusions 142a1. As further shown in FIG. 9B, the latching members 144a1 of the first coupling mechanisms 140a1 are engaged by the engaging members 144b2 of the second coupling mechanisms 140b2, thereby securing the first center hub member 1301 to the second hub member 1302. A similar interlocking occurs between the second center hub member 1302 and the third center hub member 1303. It is further noted that additional center hub members 130 may be stacked to the first center hub member 1301 and/or the third center hub member 1303 in a similar manner.

Referring to FIGS. 10A-10B and FIGS. 11A-11C, an alternative center hub member 130′ according to embodiments of the present invention is illustrated. The alternative center hub member 130′ may be utilized in the cable reel assembly 100 described herein. Properties and/or features of the center hub member 130′ may be as described above in reference to the center hub member 130 shown in FIGS. 8A-8G and duplicate discussion thereof may be omitted herein for the purposes of discussing FIGS. 10A-10B and FIGS. 11A-11C.

As shown in FIG. 10A and FIG. 11A, the center hub member 130′ differs from the center hub member 130 described herein in that one or more of the side walls 134′ of the center hub member 130′ comprise at least one slot 135′ rather than an aperture 135 (i.e., like center hub member 130). In some embodiments, each of the side walls 134′ of the center hub member 130 comprise two slots 135′. Similar to the apertures 135 of the center hub member 130, the slots 135′ of the center hub member 130 shown in FIGS. 10A-10B are configured to receive a respective securing mechanism 115 of the coiler section members 110 (see also, FIGS. 11B-11C).

In addition, as shown in FIGS. 11A-11C, in some embodiments, the main body 132′ of the center hub member 130′ comprises a snap-fit securing mechanism 137 residing adjacent to each respective slot 135′ in the side walls 134′. In some embodiments, the snap-fit securing mechanisms 137′ are each configured to engage and hold a respective securing mechanism 115 of the coiler section member 110 within a respective slot 135′, thereby securing the coiler section member 110 to the center hub member 130′. For example, in some embodiments, each snap-fit securing mechanism 137′ is configured to deflect as a securing mechanism 115 is inserted into a respective slot 135′ and lock the securing mechanism 115 within the slot 135′ (see, e.g., FIGS. 11B-11C).

As shown in FIGS. 11A-11B, in some embodiments, the snap-fit securing mechanisms 137′ may comprise a hook or otherwise flanged end 137e′. In some embodiments, the hook or flanged end 137e′ of the snap-fit securing mechanism 137′ is configured to engage the securing mechanism 115 to hold the securing mechanism 115 within the respective slot 135′. For example, as the securing mechanism 115 of a coiler section member 110 is inserted into a respective slot 135′ of the center hub member 130, the snap-fit securing mechanism 137′ is configured to deflect inwardly, thereby allowing the securing mechanism 115 to be received into the respective slot 135′. As shown in FIGS. 11B-11C, after the securing mechanism 115 has been inserted into the slot 135′ of the center hub member 130, the resilient nature of the material that forms the snap-fit securing mechanism 137′ returns to the snap-fit securing mechanism 137′ to its original position. As the snap-fit securing mechanism 137′ returns to its original position, the hook or flanged end 137e′ engages the securing mechanism 115, thereby securing the securing mechanism 115 within the slot 135′ and the coiler section member 110 to the center hub member 130′.

Referring FIGS. 12A-12C, an alternative center hub member is illustrated. In FIG. 12A, two of the alternative center hub members 1301″, 1302″ are shown stacked together. Properties and/or features of the center hub members 1301″, 1302″ may be as described above in reference to the center hub member 130′ shown in FIGS. 10A-10B and FIGS. 11A-11C and duplicate discussion thereof may be omitted herein for the purposes of discussing FIGS. 12A-12C.

As shown in FIGS. 12A-12C, the center hub members 1301″, 1302″ differ from the center hub member 130′ described herein in the first and second coupling mechanisms 140a′, 140b′ that engage two center hub members 1301″, 1302″ (and corresponding cable reel assemblies) together. In some embodiments, the first coupling mechanism 140a′ may comprise a tapered edge 142a′ and a flanged end 144a′ and the second coupling mechanism 140b′ may comprise a flexible latch 142b′ and recess or slot 144b′. As shown in FIG. 12B, two center hub members 1301″, 1302″ are configured to slide to engage with each other. The flanged end 144a′ of the first coupling mechanism 140a′ is configured to be received by or engage with the recess or slot 144b′ of the second coupling mechanism 140b′. As the flanged end 144a′ is received by the recess or slot 144b′, the tapered edge 142a′ of the first coupling mechanism 140a′ deflects the flexible latch 142b′ of the second coupling mechanism 140b′. After flexible latch 142b′ is slid past the tapered edge 142a′, the flexible latch 142b′ deflects back to its original position, thereby securing the two center hub members 1301″, 1302″ together.

As shown FIG. 12C, to disengage two center hub members 1301″, 1302″ a tool 55, such as a screwdriver, may be used to push (deflect) the flexible latch 142b′ of the second coupling mechanism 140b′ of one center hub member 1302″ away from the tapered edge 142a′ of the first coupling mechanism 140a′ of the other center hub member 1301″ (as indicated by the arrow), thereby allowing the two center hub members 1301″, 1302″ to be slid apart from each other.

Referring now to FIGS. 13A-13E, an exemplary coiler section member 110 of the cable reel assembly 100 is illustrated in greater detail. As shown in FIGS. 13A-13C, the coiler section member 110 includes an arcuate base member 112 from which the securing mechanisms 115 extend outwardly therefrom. As discussed above, the securing mechanisms 115 are configured to engage with respective apertures or slots 135, 135′ of the center hub member 130 to form the cable reel assembly 100 (see, e.g., FIG. 4A).

A pair of spaced apart side walls 114a, 114b extend outwardly from the base member 112 The side walls 114a, 114b define a channel 113 configured to receive and hold a cable 12 coiled around the cable reel assembly 100 (see, e.g., FIG. 4D). In some embodiments, the side walls 114, 114b are spaced apart a distance W in a range of between about 3 inches to about 4 inches. As noted above, at least one of the side walls 114b may comprise one or more latching features 117. In some embodiments, the side wall 114a without the latching features 117 may extend outwardly from the base member 112 a further distance than the side wall 114b comprising the latching features 117 (i.e., one side wall 114a has a greater height than the other side wall 114b). The difference in height creates a stop for when a cover 150 is installed on the cable reel assembly 100 while the one or more latching features 117 may be configured to help secure the cover 150 to the cable reel assembly 100 (see, e.g., FIGS. 4C-4D). For example, in some embodiments, the latching features 117 are spring clips (or similar mechanism) that are configured to deflect as the cover 150 is being installed on the cable reel assembly 100. After the cover 150 passes over the latching features 117 and contacts the side wall 114a, the resilient nature of the material the forms the latching features 117 springs the latching features 117 back to their original position to lock the cover 150 in position on the cable reel assembly 100 (i.e., between the side wall 114a and the latching features 117 and covering the channel 113).

As shown in FIG. 13A, in some embodiments, the base member 112 further comprises a recessed area 118 and a pair of apertures 112a that are configured to secure the cable reel assembly 100 to a mounting structure (e.g., a mounting pole). For example, as shown in FIGS. 6A-6B, the recessed area 118 in the base member 112 may be sized and configured to receive at least a portion of a mounting pole 50 and the apertures 112a may be configured to receive respective fasteners 62 of a mounting clamp 60 used to secure one or more cable reel assemblies 1001-3 to the mounting pole 50.

As shown in FIGS. 13A-13B, in some embodiments, one of the side walls 114b may comprise a pair of apertures 119 adjacent to opposing ends 112e of the base member 112 As described in further detail below, each aperture 119 in the side wall 114b may be configured to receive a corresponding locking tab 216, 216′ of an extension support member 200, 200′ to form an alternative cable reel assembly 300 according to embodiments of the present invention (see, e.g., FIGS. 14A-14C, FIGS. 15A-15B, and FIGS. 16A-16C).

Referring to FIGS. 14A-14C and FIGS. 15A-15B, an extension support member 200 according to embodiments of the present invention is illustrated. As described in further detail below, multiple extension support members 200 may be used to form an alternative cable reel assembly 300 having a larger coiling diameter range (D2inner to D2outer) compared to a coiling diameter range (D1inner to D1outer) cable reel assembly 100 described herein (see, e.g., FIGS. 16A-16C and FIGS. 23A-23B).

As shown in FIGS. 14A-14C, the extension support member 200 has a main body 210 with an L-shaped retention member 212 extending upwardly therefrom. The main body 210 and L-shaped retention member 212 define an opening 214 configured to have one or more cables 12 routed therethrough. In some embodiments, the L-shaped retention member 212 helps to retain the one or more cables 12 within the opening 214 of the extension support member 200 and coiled around the cable reel assembly 300. As shown in FIGS. 14A-14C, in some embodiments, the main body 210 and/or L-shaped retention member 212 may comprise one or more flanged ends 211, 213 that are configured to further hold the one or more cables 12 coiled around the cable reel assembly 300. As shown in FIG. 14C, in some embodiments, the flanged ends 211, 213 may define entry/exit point 214e for the cables 12 into the opening 214 of the extension support member 200.

As further shown in FIGS. 14A-14C, in some embodiments, the extension support member 200 may comprise a pair of latching tabs 216 extending outwardly from the main body 210. As discussed in further detail below, each of the latching tabs 216 are configured to be received by or engage with a corresponding aperture 119 in the coiler section members 110 in order to secure adjacent coiler section members 110 together (see, e.g., FIGS. 15A-15B). In some embodiments, the main body 210 of the extension support member 210 may further comprise opposing recesses 217. As shown in FIG. 14B, in some embodiments, the recesses 217 may have a triangular shape. In some embodiments, the recesses 217 may reside adjacent to a lower end 215 of the main body 210. As discussed in further detail below, in some embodiments, each recess 217 is configured to receive an end 112e of a coiler section member 110 (see, e.g., FIG. 15A).

FIGS. 15A-15B illustrate the extension support member 200 coupling together two adjacent coiler section members 110 according to embodiments of the present invention. As discussed in further detail below, the interlocking of the extension support member 200 and adjacent coiler section members 110 will be used to form the cable reel assembly 300 of the present invention (see, e.g., FIGS. 16A-16C). As shown in FIGS. 15A-15B, the ends 112e of adjacent coiler members 110 are received within respective recesses 217 of the extension support member 200 with the lower end 215 of the main body 210 of the extension support member 200 providing support to each coiler member 110. As further shown in FIGS. 15A-15B, each latching tab 216 of the extension support member 200 is received by and engaged with a corresponding aperture 119 in each coiler section member 110, thereby bridging and securing adjacent coiler section members 110 together (see also, e.g., FIGS. 16A-16C).

Referring now to FIGS. 16A-16C, the cable reel assembly 300 according to embodiments of the present invention is illustrated. FIG. 16A is an exploded view of the cable reel assembly 300. As shown in FIG. 16A, the cable reel assembly 300 includes the center hub member 130, coiler section members 110, and extension support members 200 as described herein. In addition, the cable reel assembly 300 utilizes adapter extensions 1601 from a related assembly for mounting cables. See, e.g., U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/355,830 filed Jul. 20, 2023, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference. For example, as shown in FIG. 16A, four adapter extensions 1601 are secured to respective side walls 134 of the center hub member 130. It is noted that the alternative center hub members 130′, 130″ described herein (see, e.g., FIGS. 10A-10B, FIGS. 11A-11C, and FIGS. 12A-12C) may also be used in the cable reel assembly 300. As shown in FIG. 16D, in some embodiments, each of the adapter extensions 1601 has a securing mechanism 165 (e.g., a tab) that is configured to be received within an aperture or slot 135, 135′ in the side walls 134, 134′ of the center hub member 130, 130′.

As further shown in FIGS. 16A-16C, and as described herein, adjacent coiler section members 110 are secured together via respective extension support members 200 As shown in FIGS. 16A-16C, in some embodiments, four coiler section members 110 may be connected together via four extension support members 200. Similar to the interlocking of the securing mechanisms 165 of the adapter extensions 1601 and the apertures or slots 135, 135′ of the center hub member 130, 130′, as shown in FIGS. 16A-16C, the securing mechanisms 115 of the coiler section members 110 are configured to be received in corresponding apertures or slots 162 in the respective adapter extensions 1601 to interlock the coiler section members 110 to respective adapter extensions 1601, thereby forming the cable reel assembly 300 on which one or more cables 12 may be wrapped around (as shown in FIG. 16C).

FIG. 17 illustrates the cable reel assembly 300 mounted on a mounting structure 50 (e.g., a mounting pole) according to embodiments of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 17, the cable reel assembly 300 may be mounted to the mounting pole 50 in a similar manner as the one or more cable reel assemblies 1001-3 described herein are mounted (see, e.g., FIGS. 6A-6B). For example, as shown in FIG. 17, in some embodiments, to secure the cable reel assembly 300 to a mounting pole 50, fasteners 62 (e.g., rods or bolts) of the mounting clamps 60 are received through respective apertures 112a in the base members 112 of opposing coiler section members 110 as a portion of the mounting pole 50 is received within recesses 111 in the coiler section members 110

Referring now to FIGS. 18A-18C and FIGS. 19A-19C, an alternative extension support member 200′ that may be used in the cable reel assembly 300 according to embodiments of the present invention is illustrated. Properties and/or features of the extension support member 200′ may be as described above in reference to the extension support member 200 shown in FIGS. 14A-14C and FIGS. 15A-15B and duplicate discussion thereof may be omitted herein for the purposes of discussing FIGS. 18A-18C and FIGS. 19A-19C.

As shown in FIGS. 18A-18C and FIGS. 19A-19C, the extension support member 200′ differs from the extension support member 200 described herein in that the extension support member 200′ comprises an adjustable retention member 212′ that engages the main body 210. As described in further detail below, and shown in FIGS. 19A-19C, the retention member 212′ is adjustable relative to the main body 210′ to change the size of the opening 214′ through which one or more cables 12 may be routed (i.e., a distance H between the retention member 212′ and the main body 210 is adjustable) and retain the one or more cables 12 within the opening 214′ of the extension support member 200′ (and cable reel assembly 300). In some embodiments, the distance H between the retention member 212′ and the main body 210′ that the opening 214′ of the extension support member 200′ may be adjusted is in a range of between about 20 millimeters and about 60 millimeters.

As shown in FIGS. 18A-18B, in some embodiments, the extension support member 200′ comprises a pair of locking mechanisms 218′, 219′ extending downwardly from opposing ends of the retention member 212′. Each locking mechanism 218′, 219′ is configured to slide within and engage with a corresponding securing channel 211′, 213′ coupled to an upper end of the main body 210′. In some embodiments, each locking mechanism 218′, 219′ comprises a plurality of spaced apart notches 218p′, 219p′ or like features.

As shown in FIGS. 18A-18B, each locking mechanism 218′, 219′ is configured to slide with a respective securing channel 211, 213′ to adjust the distance H between the retention member 212′ and the main body 210′ (and the opening 214′ of the extension support member 200′) (see also, e.g., FIGS. 19A-19C). The plurality of notches 218p′, 219p′ correspond to the distance H between the retention member 212′ and the main body 210′ and are configured to engage with the respective securing channel 211′, 213′ to secure the locking mechanism 218′, 219′at a desired position within the securing channels 211′, 213′, thereby securing the retention member 212′ at the desired distance H relative to the main body 210′ (see, e.g., FIGS. 19A-19C).

FIG. 18C illustrates the extension support member 200′ coupling together two adjacent coiler section members 110 according to embodiments of the present invention. The extension support member 200′ may be used to interlock adjacent coiler section members 110 to form the cable reel assembly 300 of the present invention. Similar to the extension support member 200 described herein (see also, e.g., FIG. 15A-15B), the ends 112e of adjacent coiler members 110 are received within respective recesses 217′ of the extension support member 200′ with the lower end 215′ of the main body 210′ of the extension support member 200′ providing support to each coiler member 110 As further shown in FIG. 18C, each latching tab 216′ of the extension support member 200′ is received by and engaged with a corresponding aperture 119 in each coiler section member 110, thereby bridging and securing adjacent coiler section members 110 together.

FIGS. 19A-19C illustrate the adjustability of the extension support member 200′ to accommodate different layers and/or sizes of cables 12 coiled around a cable reel assembly 300. As shown in FIG. 19A, the retention member 212′ is shown being separated a first distance H1 from the main body 210′ of the extension support member 200′. In some embodiments, the first distance H1 is sufficient to allow a single layer of cable 12 to be retained within the opening 214′ of the extension support member 200′ (i.e., coiled around the cable reel assembly 300). In some embodiments, the first distance H1 may be in a range of about 20 millimeters to about 29 millimeters, and typically about 22 millimeters. As shown in FIG. 19B, the retention member 212′ is shown being separated a second distance H2 from the main body 210′ of the extension support member 200′. In some embodiments, the second distance H2 is sufficient to allow two layers of cable 12 to be retained within the opening 214′ of the extension support member 200 (i.e., coiled around the cable reel assembly 300). In some embodiments, the second distance H2 may be in a range of about 30 millimeters and about 49 millimeters, and typically about 39 millimeters. As shown in FIG. 19C, the retention member 212′ is shown being separated a third distance H3 from the main body 210′ of the extension support member 200′. In some embodiments, the third distance H3 is sufficient to allow three layers of cable 12 to be retained within the opening 214′ of the extension support member 200 (i.e., coiled around the cable reel assembly 300). In some embodiments, the third distance H3 may be in a range of about 50 millimeters and about 60 millimeters, and typically about 55 millimeters.

Referring now to FIGS. 20A-20B, additional cable reel assemblies 400, 600 according to embodiments of the present invention are illustrated. Properties and/or features of the cable reel assemblies 400, 600 may be as described above in reference to the cable reel assemblies 100, 300 described herein and duplicate discussion thereof may be omitted herein for the purposes of discussing FIGS. 20A-20B.

As shown in FIGS. 20A-20B, the cable reel assemblies 400, 600 include the center hub member 130 as described herein. In addition, as shown in FIG. 20B, the cable reel assembly 600 includes four adapter extensions 1601 are secured to respective side walls 134 of the center hub member 130. As shown in FIGS. 20A-20B, the cable reel assemblies 400, 600 differ from the other cable reel assemblies 100, 300 in that the cable reel assemblies 400, 600 utilize different coiler section members 410 and extension support members 500, which are described in further detail below.

A coiler section member 110 as described herein and utilized in the cable reel assemblies 100, 300 is shown again in FIG. 21A. A coiler section member 410 that is utilized in the cable reel assemblies 400, 600 is illustrated in FIG. 21B. Properties and/or features of the coiler section member 410 may be as described above in reference to the coiler section member 110 described herein and duplicate discussion thereof may be omitted herein for the purposes of discussing FIG. 21B.

As shown in FIG. 21B, the coiler section member 410 has an arcuate base member 412 with a pair of spaced apart side walls 414a, 414b extending outwardly therefrom to define a channel 413 therebetween. The channel 413 configured to receive and hold a cable 12 coiled around the cable reel assembly 400, 600. At least one of the side walls 414b may comprise one or more latching features 417 configured to help secure a cover 150 to the cable reel assembly 400, 600. The coiler section member 410 further comprises one or more securing mechanisms 415 that are configured to engage the center hub member 130, thereby interlocking the coiler section members 410 with the center hub member 130. For example, in some embodiments, the one or more securing mechanisms 415 may be protrusions that are configured to engage with a corresponding aperture 135 in the center hub member 130 to interlock the coiler section members 410 to the center hub member 130 (see, e.g., FIGS. 20A-20B).

The base member 412 further comprises a pair of apertures 412a that are configured to secure the cable reel assembly 400, 600 to a mounting structure (e.g., a mounting pole 50). For example, the apertures 412a may be configured to receive respective fasteners 62 of a mounting clamp 60 used to secure one or more cable reel assemblies 400, 600 to the mounting pole 50 (similar to mounting of the cable reel assemblies 1001-3 shown in FIGS. 6A-6B).

The coiler section member 410 differs than the coiler section member 110 in that the coiler section member 410 is smaller than the coiler section member 110 (compare with FIG. 21A). In other words, the side walls 414a, 414b and corresponding channel 413 of coiler section member 410 are less arcuate in shape than the side walls 114a, 114b and corresponding channel 113 of the coiler section member 110. In addition, the coiler section member 410 comprises latching mechanisms 419 on opposing sides of the base member 412 In some embodiments, the latching mechanisms 419 are configured to engage with the extension support member 500 (see, e.g., FIGS. 22A-22B) to form the cable reel assembly 600 illustrated in FIG. 20B.

An extension support member 200 as described herein and utilized in the cable reel assembly 300 is shown again in FIG. 22A. An extension support member 500 that is utilized in the cable reel assembly 600 is illustrated in FIG. 22B. Properties and/or features of the extension support member 500 may be as described above in reference to the extension support member 200 described herein and duplicate discussion thereof may be omitted herein for the purposes of discussing FIG. 22B.

In some embodiments, as discussed further below, similar to extension support member 200, multiple extension support members 500 may be used to form the alternative cable reel assembly 600 having a larger coiling diameter range (D4inner to D4outer) compared to a coiling diameter range (D3inner to D3outer) cable reel assembly 400 described herein (see, e.g., FIGS. 24A-24B).

As shown in FIG. 22B, the extension support member 500 has a main body 510 with an L-shaped retention member 512 extending upwardly therefrom (see also, e.g., FIG. 20B). The main body 510 and L-shaped retention member 512 define an opening 514 configured to have one or more cables 12 routed therethrough. In some embodiments, the L-shaped retention member 512 helps to retain the one or more cables 12 within the opening 514 of the extension support member 500 and coiled around the cable reel assembly 600. As shown in FIG. 22B, in some embodiments, the main body 510 and/or L-shaped retention member 512 may comprise one or more flanged ends 511, 513 that are configured to further hold the one or more cables 12 coiled around the cable reel assembly 600.

As shown in FIG. 22B (and FIG. 20B), the extension support member 500 differs from the extension support member 200 (see, e.g., FIG. 22A) in that the extension support member 500 comprises arms 518 that extend radially outwardly from opposing sides of the main body 510. As noted above, the end 518e of each arm 518 is configured to be received by or engage with a corresponding latching mechanism 419 the coiler section members 410 in order to secure adjacent coiler section members 410 together (see, e.g., FIG. 20B).

Referring back to FIG. 20B, four extension support members 500 are shown coupling together adjacent coiler section members 410 according to embodiments of the present invention. Interlocking of the extension support members 500 and adjacent coiler section members 410 form the cable reel assembly 600 of the present invention.

The cable reel assembly 100 according to embodiments of the present invention is illustrated again in FIG. 23A. As shown in FIG. 23A, in some embodiments, the cable reel assembly 100 has an inner diameter D1inner and an outer diameter D1outer. In some embodiments, the inner diameter D1inner is about 220 millimeter and the outer diameter D1outer is about 313 millimeters. In some embodiments, the cable reel assembly 100 has a cable winding capacity of at least 16 meters of cable. In some embodiments, the cable reel assembly 100 can accommodate cables having a minimum bending radius of greater than 103 millimeters.

The cable reel assembly 300 according to embodiments of the present invention is illustrated again in FIG. 23B. As shown in FIG. 23B, in some embodiments, the cable reel assembly 300 has an inner diameter D2inner and an outer diameter D2outer. In some embodiments, the inner diameter D2inner is about 476 millimeter and the outer diameter D2outer is about 570 millimeters. In some embodiments, the cable reel assembly 300 has a cable winding capacity of at least 12 meters of cable. In some embodiments, the cable reel assembly 300 can accommodate cables having a minimum bending radius of greater than 221 millimeters.

The cable reel assembly 400 according to embodiments of the present invention is illustrated again in FIG. 24A. As shown in FIG. 24A, the cable reel assembly 400 has an inner diameter D3inner and an outer diameter D3outer. In some embodiments, the inner diameter D3inner is about 262 millimeter and the outer diameter D3outer is about 384 millimeters. In some embodiments, the cable reel assembly 400 has a cable winding capacity of at least 27 meters of cable. In some embodiments, the cable reel assembly 100 can accommodate cables having a minimum bending radius of greater than 103 millimeters.

The cable reel assembly 600 according to embodiments of the present invention is illustrated again in FIG. 24B. As shown in FIG. 24B, the cable reel assembly 600 has an inner diameter D4inner and an outer diameter D4outer. In some embodiments, the inner diameter D4inner is about 527 millimeter and the outer diameter D4outer is about 640 millimeters. In some embodiments, the cable reel assembly 600 has a cable winding capacity of at least 18 meters of cable. In some embodiments, the cable reel assembly 600 can accommodate cables having a minimum cable radius of greater than 221 millimeters.

Referring now to FIGS. 25A-25B, a cable hanger adapter 700 according to embodiments of the present invention is illustrated. According to embodiments of the present invention, the adapter 700 is configured to be utilized with existing mounting components 1601-4 for a cable mounting assembly 800 (see, e.g., FIGS. 26A-26C). See also, e.g., U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/355,830 filed Jul. 20, 2023. As shown in FIGS. 25A-25B, the cable hanger adapter 700 has a first side 710a and an opposing second side 710b. As shown in FIG. 25A, the first side 710a of the adapter 700 has one or more mounting apertures 735. The mounting apertures 735 are configured to receive a respective securing mechanism 165 (e.g., tab) for a corresponding mounting component 1601-4 for a cable mounting assembly 800. As further shown in FIG. 25A, the second opposing side 710b of the adapter 700 has one or more securing mechanisms 715 (e.g., tabs). In some embodiments, the securing mechanisms 715 extend outwardly from the second side 710b of the adapter 700. The securing mechanisms 715 are configured to be received by a corresponding aperture or slot 162 in the respective mounting component 1601-4.

As further shown in FIGS. 25A-25B, the adapter 700 has a plurality of side walls 712 For example, as shown in FIG. 25A, in some embodiments, the adapter 700 is hexagonal in shape and thus, has six side walls 712 In some embodiments, at least one of the side walls 712 have one or more mounting apertures or slots 714. In some embodiments, each of the side walls 712 have one or mounting apertures 714. The one or more mounting apertures 714 are configured to receive a respective securing mechanism 165 of the mounting components 1601-4 (see, e.g., FIG. 26A). As shown in FIG. 25B, the adapter 700 has an overall height H2 and width W21. In some embodiments, the height H2 is about 203 millimeters and the width W21 is about 69 millimeters. Each side wall has a length L2 In some embodiments, the length L2 is about 83 millimeters. In some embodiments, a width W22 of the adapter 700 (including the distance the securing mechanisms 715 extend outwardly therefrom) is about 88 millimeters (i.e., in some embodiments, the securing mechanisms 715 extend outwardly from the second side 710b a distance of about 19 millimeters).

FIGS. 26A-26C illustrate the capability of the cable hanger adapter 700 to be utilized with a variety of different mounting components 1601-4 for a cable mounting assembly 800 according to embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 26A illustrates three different types of mounting components 1601-3 that may be secured to respective side walls 712 of the adapter 700 according to embodiments of the present invention. For example, in some embodiments, an adapter extension 1601, a two hole cable hanger bracket 1602, and/or a six hole cable hanger bracket 1603 may be secured to a side wall 712 of the adapter 700. Each of these components may be secured to the side walls 712 of the adapter 700 via the one or more mounting apertures or slots 714. FIG. 26B illustrates the cable hanger adapter 700 may be secured to a collar (or clamp) mount 160 4 according to embodiments of the present invention. The adapter 700 may be secured to the clamp mount 1604 via the securing mechanisms 715. FIG. 26C illustrates the cable hanger adapter 700 may be secured to an adapter extension 1603 as described herein according to embodiments of the present invention.

Referring to FIGS. 27A-27B, another coiler section member 900 according to embodiments of the present invention is illustrated. Properties and/or features of the coiler section member 900 may be as described above in reference to the coiler section members 110, 410 described herein and duplicate discussion thereof may be omitted herein for the purposes of discussing FIGS. 27A-27B. In some embodiments, multiple coiler section members 900 may be used with the cable hanger adapter 700 described herein to form a cable reel assembly 1000 (see, e.g., FIGS. 29A-29C and FIG. 30).

As shown in FIGS. 27A-27B, the coiler section member 900 includes an arcuate base member 912 having a radius R3. In some embodiments, the base member 912 has a radius R3 in the range of about 225 millimeters and 235 millimeters, for example, about 229 millimeters. A pair of spaced apart side walls 914a, 914b extend outwardly from the base member 912 The side walls 914a, 914b define a channel 913 configured to receive and hold a cable 12 coiled around the cable reel assembly 1000 (see, e.g., FIG. 29B). In some embodiments, the side walls 914, 914b are spaced apart a distance W31 in a range of between about 100 millimeters to about 110millimeters, for example, 102 millimeters. In some embodiments, the side walls 914a, 914b extending upwardly from the base member 912 a distance H31 in the range of between about 100 millimeters to about 110 millimeters, for example, 102 millimeters. In some embodiments, each side wall 914a, 914b has a thickness T3 in a range of between about 5 millimeters to about 8 millimeters, for example, about 6.4 millimeters.

In some embodiments, an offset mounting member 916 extends outwardly from the base member 912 of the coiler section member 900. In some embodiments, the offset mounting member 916 extends radially outwardly a distance W32 from the base member 912 in a range of between about 65 millimeters and about 75 millimeters, for example, about 69 millimeters. The offset mounting member 916 comprises one or more securing mechanisms 915 extend downwardly therefrom. In some embodiments, the securing mechanisms 915 extend downwardly a distance H32 in the range of between about 35 millimeters to about 45 millimeters, for example, about 38 millimeters. The securing mechanisms 915 are configured to engage with respective apertures or slots 714 in the side walls 712 of the cable hanger adapter 700 to form the cable reel assembly 1000 (see, e.g., FIGS. 29A-29C and FIG. 30).

An alternative coiler section member 900′ is illustrated in FIG. 28 and may be used with the cable reel assembly 1000 shown in FIGS. 29A-29C and FIG. 30. As shown in FIG. 28, the coiler section member 900′ includes an arcuate base member 912′ having a pair of spaced apart side walls 914a′, 914b′ extend outwardly therefrom. The side walls 914a′, 914b′ define a channel 913′ configured to receive and hold a cable 12 coiled around the cable reel assembly 1000. The coiler section member 900′ differs from the coiler section member 900 in that the coiler section member 900′ does not have an offset mounting member 916 for the securing mechanisms 915′. Instead, as shown in FIG. 28, the securing mechanisms 915′ extend downwardly directly from the base member 912′. The securing mechanisms 915′ are configured to engage with respective apertures or slots 714 in the side walls 712 of the cable hanger adapter 700 to form the cable reel assembly 1000 (see, e.g., FIGS. 29A-29C and FIG. 30).

Referring now to FIGS. 29A-29C and FIG. 30, a cable reel assembly 1000 according to embodiments of the present invention is illustrated. In some embodiments, the cable reel assembly 1000 may comprise the cable hanger adapter 700, two adapter extensions 1601, and two coiler section members 900. As shown in FIGS. 29A-29B, the two adapter extensions 1601 may be interlocked (secured) to opposing side walls 712 of the cable hanger adapter 700 (e.g., via securing mechanisms 165 of the adapter extensions 1601 received by respective apertures or slots 714 in the side walls 712 of the cable hanger adapter 700). Each coiler section member 900 may be interlocked (secured) with a respective adapter extension 1601 (e.g., via securing mechanism 915 of the coiler section member 900 received by respective apertures or slots 162 in the adapter extensions 1601) to form the cable reel assembly 1000.

As shown in FIG. 29B, a cable 12 may then be coiled around the cable reel assembly 1000 (i.e., around the coiler section members 900 of the assembly 1000). As shown in FIG. 29C, the cable hanger adapter 700 may be further interlocked (secured) with a clamp mount 1604 (via securing mechanisms 715 as described herein) to secure the cable reel assembly 1000 to a mounting structure 50. As further shown in FIG. 29C, in some embodiments, the offset mounting member 716 positions each coiler section member 900 such that the coiler section members 900 are axially offset relative to a first side 710a of the cable hanger adapter 700.

FIG. 30illustrates how the coiler section members 900 may be secured to the adapter 700 (via the adapter extensions 1601) at different locations (i.e., different opposing side walls 712) to provide a variety of configurations for the cable reel assembly 1000.

Referring now to FIGS. 31A-31B, a cable reel cover 950 according to embodiments of the present invention is illustrated. In some embodiments, the cable reel cover 950 may be used with the cable reel assembly 1000 (see, e.g., FIGS. 32A-32B). As shown in FIGS. 31A-31B, the cable reel cover 950 has an outer wall 952 that defines an interior cavity 953. The interior cavity 953 is sized and configured to receive a cable reel assembly therein (e.g., cable reel assembly 1000). In other words, the coiler section members 900 of the cable reel assembly 1000 are received within the interior cavity 953 of the cable reel cover 950. In some embodiments, the outer wall 952 may have a recessed area or notch 954 which allows cable 12 that is wrapped around the cable reel assembly 1000 to enter/exit the cable reel cover 950.

As shown in FIG. 31A, the cable reel cover 950 further comprises one or more mounting clips 955 or like securing features. In some embodiments, the one or more mounting clips 955 are configured to engage the mounting apertures 714 of the adapter 700 to secure the cable reel cover 950 on the cable reel assembly 1000 In some embodiments, the one or more mounting clips 955 may be coupled to and extend outwardly from a mounting block 956 residing within the interior cavity 953 of the cable reel cover 950.

As shown in FIG. 31B, in some embodiments, the cable reel cover 950 has an overall height H4 in a range of between about 750 millimeters and about 800 millimeters. In some embodiments, the cable reel cover 950 has an overall width W4 in a range of between about 110 millimeters and about 125 millimeters. In some embodiments, the cable reel cover 950 may have a radius R4 in a range of between about 350 millimeters and about 400 millimeters.

FIGS. 32A-32B illustrate top and side views of the cable reel cover 950 being installed on the cable reel assembly 1000 described herein according to embodiments of the present invention.

Referring now to FIGS. 33A-33D, another cable reel assembly 1100 according to embodiments of the present invention is illustrated. Properties and/or features of the cable reel assembly 1100 may be as described above in reference to other cable reel assemblies described herein and duplicate discussion thereof may be omitted herein for the purposes of discussing FIGS. 33A-33D.

As shown in FIG. 33A, the cable reel assembly 1100 includes a base member 1110. In some embodiments, the base member 1110 may have a generally square shape having four side walls 1111 One surface of the base member 1110 includes mounting clips 1115 and the opposing surface of the base member 1110 includes through holes 1115a for mounting clips, for example, from a cable reel cover 1250, see, e.g., FIGS. 36A-36B and FIGS. 37A-37B).

The cable reel assembly 1100 includes two or more adapter extensions (or stand-off members) 1601, 1605. The adapter extensions 1601, 160s are configured to engage a respective side wall 1111 of the base member 1110. For example, as shown in FIG. 33A, an adapter extension 1605 is coupled to and extends outwardly from each of the four side walls 1111 of the base member 1110. As shown in FIG. 33A, the cable reel assembly 1100 further includes at least two coiler section members 900, 900′ described herein (for example, the coiler section member 900′ shown in FIG. 28) As shown in FIG. 33A, in some embodiments, a coiler section member 900′ is coupled to an opposing end of each adapter extension 1605. As described herein, the channel 913′ of the coiler section members 900′ are sized and configured to receive and hold a cable 12 wrapped or coiled around the cable reel assembly 1100 (see, e.g., FIG. 35C).

As illustrated in FIG. 33B, the different components of the cable reel assembly 1100 (i.e., the coiler section member 900′, adapter extensions 1601, 1605 and different sized base members 1110, 1110′) are adjustable or interchangeable based on need. For example, a larger base member 1110 may be used with the adapter extension 1601 and coiler section member 900′ to form cable reel assembly 1100′ which accommodates one range of cable diameters and the smaller base member 1110 may be used with an alternative adapter extension 1605 and coiler section member 900′ to form cable reel assembly 1100 which accommodates another range of cable diameters.

As shown in FIGS. 33C-33D, in some embodiments, the coiler section members 900′ may be secured directly to the side walls 1111″ of a base member 1110″' to form an alternative cable reel assembly 1150 to accommodate another range of cable diameters (as compared with the cable reel assembly 1100′ in which the coiler section member 900′ is secured to an adapter extension 1601 which is secured to the base member 1110′). As shown in FIG. 33C, the cable reel assembly 1150 has a smaller coiling diameter D5 (i.e., around which cables 12 are wrapped around the assembly 1150). As shown in FIGS. 33C-33D, in some embodiments, the corners 1110c″ of the base member 1110″ may be chamfered. The chamfered corners 1110c″ may help provide clearance such that the coiler section members 900″ can engage with the side walls 1111″ of the base member 1110″.

In some embodiments, one or more of the coiler section members 900, 900′, adapter extensions 1601, 1605, and base members 1110, 1110′, 1110″ may be integral formed together to form a cable reel assembly 1200. For example, as shown in FIGS. 34A-34B and FIGS. 35A-35C, an alternative cable reel assembly 1200 is illustrated in which the adapter extensions 1212 is integrally formed with the base member 1210 to form a spine of the cable reel assembly 1200. In some embodiments, the spine may have a thickness T5 in a range of between about 15 millimeters and about 30 millimeters. A coiler section member 1214 is coupled to an end of each adapter extension 1212 In some embodiments, the coiler section members 1214 may also be integrally formed with the adapter extensions 1212 Similar to other cable reel assemblies described herein, the coiler section members 1212 have a channel 1213 configured to receive and hold cables 12 therein. In some embodiments, the channel 1213 may have a width W5 in a range of between about 95 millimeters and about 110 millimeters (see, e.g., FIG. 34B). In some embodiments, the cable reel assembly 1200 may have an inner radius R51 (i.e., to the bottom of the channel 1213) in a range of between about 225 millimeters and about 235 millimeters. In some embodiments, the cable reel assembly 1200 may have an outer radius R52 (i.e., to the top of the channel 1213) in a range of between about 360 millimeters and about 380 millimeters. Similar to other cable reel assemblies described herein, of the cable reel assembly 1200 includes mounting clips 1215 and through holes 1215a on opposing surfaces of the base member 1210 of the spine.

FIGS. 35A-35B illustrate the capability of the cable reel assembly 1200 to be utilized with a variety of different mounting components (e.g., adapter extension 1601 and clamp 1604) according to embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 35A illustrates the cable reel assembly 1200 being mounted to an adapter extension 1601 via the mounting clips 1215 according to embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 35B illustrates the cable reel assembly 1200 may be secured directly to a collar (or clamp) mount 1604 according to embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 35C illustrates a cable 12 wrapped (coiled) around the cable reel assembly 1200 according to embodiments of the present invention.

Referring now to FIGS. 36A-36B, a cable reel cover 1250 according to embodiments of the present invention is illustrated. In some embodiments, the cable reel cover 1250 may be used with the cable reel assemblies 1100, 1200 described herein (see, e.g., FIGS. 33A-33B and FIGS. 34A-34B). As shown in FIGS. 36A-36B, the cable reel cover 1250 has an outer wall 1252 that defines an interior cavity 1253. The interior cavity 1253 is sized and configured to receive a cable reel assembly therein (e.g., cable reel assembly 1100, 1200). In other words, the coiler section members 900, 900′, 1214 of the cable reel assembly 1100, 1200 are received within the interior cavity 1253 of the cable reel cover 1250. In some embodiments, the outer wall 1252 may have a recessed area or notch 1254 which allows cable 12 that is wrapped around the cable reel assembly 1100, 1200 to enter/exit the cable reel cover 1250.

As shown in FIG. 36A, the cable reel cover 1250 further comprises one or more mounting clips 1255 or like securing features. In some embodiments, the one or more mounting clips 1255 are configured to engage the mounting apertures 1115a, 1215a of the cable reel assembly 1100, 1200 to secure the cable reel cover 1250 on the cable reel assembly 1100, 1200.

As shown in FIG. 36B, in some embodiments, the cable reel cover 1250 has an overall height H6 in a range of between about 725 millimeters and about 775 millimeters. In some embodiments, the cable reel cover 1250 has an overall width W6 in a range of between about 110 millimeters and about 125 millimeters. In some embodiments, the cable reel cover 1250 may have a radius R6 in a range of between about 350 millimeters and about 400 millimeters.

FIGS. 37A-37B illustrate top and side views of the cable reel cover 1250 being installed on the cable reel assemblies 1100, 1200 described herein according to embodiments of the present invention.