Patent Description:
The present invention relates to a telecommunications frame.

Optical fiber distribution systems include fiber terminations and other equipment which is typically frame or rack mounted. Various concerns exist for the optical fiber distribution systems, including density, ease of use, and cable management. There is a continuing need for improvements in the optical fiber distribution area.

<CIT> discloses modularly mountable cable management systems and associated methods.

<CIT> discloses fiber distribution hubs and storage retaining modules.

<CIT> discloses a cable management arrangement for a telecommunications cabinet.

<CIT> discloses communications bladed panel systems.

The invention is defined in appended claim <NUM>.

Preferred embodiments are defined in dependent claims <NUM>-<NUM>.

Non-limiting and non-exhaustive embodiments are described with reference to the following figures, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, wherein like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the various views unless otherwise specified.

It is to be noted that the disclosure, embodiments and examples described herein-below with reference to any of <FIG> are not encompassed by the wording of the claims but may be considered useful for understanding the invention.

Various embodiments of the invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings in <FIG>, wherein like reference numerals represent like parts and assemblies throughout the several views.

With reference to <FIG>, an example of an optical distribution frame or rack assembly <NUM> is shown. According to the depicted embodiment, the frame assembly <NUM> is provided as a cross-connect frame assembly formed from the combination of a right frame <NUM> and a left frame <NUM>. The cross-connect frame assembly <NUM> is configured to allow interchangeable patching between devices supported by the right frame <NUM> and devices supported by the left frame <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates another example embodiment of an optical distribution frame or rack assembly <NUM> in accordance with the present disclosure. According to the depicted embodiment, the frame assembly <NUM> is provided as an inter-connect frame assembly that is designed for applications with little or no re-patching requirements, where the distribution devices mounted on the frame <NUM> of the frame assembly <NUM> define an outside plant (OSP) cable side <NUM> and an equipment cable side <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates an overlength bay <NUM> that can be used between two of the cross-connect frame assemblies <NUM> shown in <FIG>.

As noted above, each of the right and left frames <NUM>, <NUM> of either the cross-connect assembly <NUM> or the frame <NUM> of the inter-connect assembly <NUM> is configured to support a plurality of optical fiber devices in the form of distribution elements <NUM>, such as a sliding chassis type element. Such elements may be configured for use as patch panels to connect patch cables entering one side of the element <NUM> to an incoming cable, such as a distribution cable or a feeder cable entering an opposite side of the element <NUM>. Examples of such elements <NUM> are described in PCT Patent Application Serial Nos. <CIT>; <CIT>; and <CIT>.

Each optical fiber distribution element <NUM> mounted to the optical distribution frame assemblies <NUM>/<NUM> is provided with a first side <NUM> and an opposite second side <NUM> at which cables may enter or exit the element <NUM>.

The cross-connect assembly <NUM> is designed to allow patching between elements <NUM> supported by the right frame <NUM> and elements <NUM> supported by the left frame <NUM>, where the first side <NUM> (e.g., left side) of each of the elements <NUM> in the left frame <NUM> and the second side <NUM> (e.g., right side) of each of the elements <NUM> in the right frame <NUM> are considered the fixed sides of the cross-connect assembly <NUM> and where the center portion <NUM> of the cross-connect assembly <NUM> is designed as the flexible side allowing re-patching of cabling between the elements <NUM> on the right and left frames <NUM>, <NUM>.

A number of cross-connect assemblies <NUM> can be stacked in a side-by-side configuration in a data center as shown in <FIG>. An overlength bay such as the bay <NUM> illustrated in <FIG> can be used between two cross-connect assemblies <NUM> as shown in <FIG>.

As noted above, the frame assembly <NUM> shown in <FIG> is provided as an inter-connect frame assembly that is designed for applications with little or no re-patching requirements for the elements <NUM> housed within its frame <NUM>.

Now referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, examples of the cross-connect frame assembly <NUM> are illustrated. As shown, the cross-connect frame assembly <NUM> may be formed by a combination of the right frame <NUM> and the left frame <NUM> that are placed adjacent each other to facilitate cross-patching between the devices <NUM> mounted on the frames. It should be noted that features discussed for the left frame <NUM> mirror those for the right frame <NUM> and only one of the frames will be discussed in detail where applicable.

For a given frame, e.g., the left frame <NUM>, the left side <NUM> of the frame <NUM> is designated as the fixed side and the right side <NUM> is designated as the flexible side, where interchangeable patching can occur.

The frame <NUM> defines a rear wall <NUM> with fastener openings <NUM> for the mounting of the distribution elements <NUM> in a vertically stacked arrangement.

The rear wall <NUM>, at the left side <NUM> of the left frame <NUM> may also include fastener openings <NUM> for the mounting of fan-out holder brackets <NUM> as will be discussed in further detail below for mounting of fan-outs.

The right side <NUM> of the left frame <NUM> closer to the center <NUM> of the cross-connect frame assembly <NUM> are provided a series of overlength drums <NUM>, arranged in a vertical column for managing cables extending from the devices <NUM>. The overlength drums <NUM>, as shown in <FIG> and as discussed in further detail below, are configured to guide cables <NUM> from the devices <NUM> toward bundle collectors <NUM> that are provided toward a bottom <NUM> of the left frame <NUM>. The bundle collectors <NUM> are also discussed in further detail below.

From the bundle collectors <NUM> of the left frame <NUM>, the patch cabling <NUM> can be passed to the bundle collectors <NUM> of the right frame <NUM>. From the bundle collectors <NUM>, the patch cabling <NUM> can be routed over the overlength drums <NUM> provided on the right frame <NUM> and patched to the elements <NUM> supported by the right frame <NUM>.

Positioned underneath the overlength drums <NUM> is provided a divider wall <NUM> for keeping the cables <NUM> that are being routed up toward the drums <NUM> from the cables <NUM> being routed down from the drums <NUM> toward the bundle collectors <NUM>. <FIG> illustrates the central region <NUM> of the cross-connect frame assembly <NUM> where bundle collectors <NUM> are used to guide cabling between the right and left frames <NUM>, <NUM> of the cross-connect assembly <NUM> and toward a bottom through <NUM> of the cross-connect assembly <NUM>. <FIG> illustrates the overlength drums <NUM> used adjacent the central region <NUM> of the cross-connect frame assembly <NUM> for guiding cabling <NUM> from the flexible sides of the frames <NUM>, <NUM> toward the bundle collectors <NUM> shown in <FIG>.

A bottom trough <NUM> defined by the cross-connect frame assembly <NUM> can be used to route cables <NUM> between the right and left frames <NUM>, <NUM> along the bottom of the frame assembly <NUM>. Horizontally positioned bundle collectors <NUM> on the left and right frames <NUM>, <NUM> are designed to guide cables <NUM> toward the bottom through <NUM>.

As shown, the cross-connect frame assembly <NUM> defines a central opening <NUM> at the top of the assembly <NUM> that leads in to a central trough <NUM> for cables <NUM> to be routed out of the assembly <NUM>. Both the central opening <NUM> and the central trough <NUM> are formed by combining the right and left frames <NUM>, <NUM> in a side-by-side arrangement. Cabling <NUM> can selectively be routed through the bundle collectors <NUM>, within the central trough <NUM>, and out the top of the frame assembly <NUM> through the central opening <NUM>.

Each of the right and left frames <NUM>, <NUM> of the cross-connect assembly also defines openings <NUM> at the outer sides both at the top and the bottom for incoming cables <NUM> to be routed to the fixed sides of the elements <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the fixed sides of the frames <NUM>, <NUM> may utilize fan-out fixation assemblies <NUM> for guiding cables <NUM> to the elements <NUM>. Such fan-out fixation assemblies <NUM> are discussed in further detail below. And, at the outer sides of the elements <NUM>, strength member fixation structures <NUM> can be mounted to the elements <NUM> for fixing cabling <NUM> to the fixed sides of the elements <NUM>. Examples of such strength member fixation structures <NUM> are discussed in further detail below.

Each of the fiber distribution elements <NUM> may include cable management structures <NUM> that can be used on the flexible patching sides thereof. It should be noted that the cable management structure <NUM> can be designed to be mounted on either side <NUM>/<NUM> of an element <NUM>, depending on whether the element <NUM> is mounted on the right frame or the left frame of the cross-connect assembly <NUM> since the flexible side of the cross-connect assembly is positioned toward the center. The cable management structures <NUM> can also be used on either side of the inter-connect assembly <NUM> as discussed above.

The cable management structures <NUM> are designed as push-through cable management structures that keep cables <NUM> contained adjacent the elements <NUM> while providing bend radius protection to cables <NUM> extending away from the elements <NUM> as the cables <NUM> are guided toward the overlength drums <NUM>.

Examples of the cable management structures <NUM> are discussed in further detail below.

<FIG> illustrates an example of a cross-connect frame assembly <NUM> that utilizes overlength drums in the form of slide drums <NUM>. Further details of such slide drums <NUM> that provide an alternative cable routing solution are discussed below.

As shown, each of the right and left frames <NUM>, <NUM> of the cross-connect assembly <NUM> may also include door mounts <NUM>. The door mounts <NUM> are configured to receive the spring-loaded rods <NUM> of pivot doors <NUM> that can be used to cover and protect the internal parts of the cross-connect assembly <NUM> as shown in <FIG> and discussed in further detail below.

Regarding the cable routing provided by the cross-connect frame assembly <NUM>,.

<FIG> illustrates an example cable patch routing between the right and left frames <NUM>, <NUM> of the cross-connect frame assembly <NUM>. <FIG> schematically illustrates the cable patch routing physically shown in <FIG>. The cross-connect frame assembly <NUM> is designed such that the cable routing features for guiding the cabling <NUM> between the devices <NUM> on the left frame <NUM> and the devices on the right frame <NUM> allow the use of fixed length fiber optic patch cables <NUM> between various elements <NUM> on respective right and left frames <NUM>, <NUM> of the cross-connect assembly <NUM>. An example of a patch cable <NUM> is shown in <FIG>. According to one example, the patch cable <NUM> used in the cross-connect assembly <NUM> may be about <NUM> meters or about <NUM> meters in length.

<FIG> illustrate the types of cables <NUM> on the fixed side of the elements <NUM> that can be paired with the jumpers <NUM> that are provided on the flexible side of the elements <NUM> in a given frame <NUM>/<NUM> of the cross-connect assembly <NUM>. <FIG> illustrates, for the fixed side, a cable <NUM> where fibers extending from can be spliced to the connectors within the elements <NUM>. <FIG> illustrate, for the fixed side, trunk cables <NUM> that are broken out using fan-outs. <FIG> illustrates, for the fixed side, individual jumper cables <NUM> that can be extended to the elements <NUM>.

<FIG> is one example of the cable routing that can be used on the fixed side of a left frame <NUM> of the cross-connect assembly <NUM>, where the cables <NUM> are directed from the top opening <NUM> of the frame <NUM> toward the elements <NUM>. <FIG> is another example of the cable routing that can be used on the fixed side of a left frame <NUM> of the cross-connect assembly <NUM>, where the cables <NUM> are directed from the bottom opening <NUM> of the frame <NUM> toward the elements <NUM>. <FIG> is another example of the cable routing that can be used on the fixed side of a left frame <NUM> of the cross-connect assembly <NUM>, where the cables <NUM> are directed from both the top and the bottom openings <NUM> of the frame <NUM> toward the elements <NUM>, the schematic illustrating the split point for the up or down routing of the cables <NUM>. <FIG> is used to illustrate one example cable routing that can be used on the fixed side of a right frame <NUM> of the cross-connect assembly <NUM>, where the cables <NUM> are directed toward a bottom of the frame from the elements <NUM>. The routing illustrated in <FIG> essentially mirrors the routing illustrated in <FIG> for the left frame <NUM> of the cross-connect assembly <NUM>. It should be noted that the routings illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG> for the left frame <NUM> can also be mirrored for the right frame <NUM>.

<FIG> is another example of the cable routing that can be used on the fixed side of a left frame <NUM> of the cross-connect assembly <NUM>, where the cables <NUM> are directed from a top of the frame <NUM> toward the elements <NUM> and where the cables <NUM> are trunk cables that are split out using fan-outs mounted with fan-out fixation assemblies <NUM> to the frame <NUM>. <FIG> illustrates a similar routing to that shown in <FIG> for trunk cables <NUM>, however on the fixed side of a right frame <NUM> of the cross-connect assembly <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates an example cable routing that can be used on the fixed side of a left frame <NUM> of the cross-connect assembly <NUM>, where the cables <NUM> are a combination of trunk cables that are split out using fan-outs mounted to the frame <NUM>, directed from a top of the frame <NUM> toward the elements <NUM> and jumper cables directed to the elements <NUM> from a bottom of the frame <NUM>. <FIG> illustrates an example cable routing for combination cabling <NUM> similar to that shown in <FIG>, where both the trunk cables and jumper cables are directed from a top of the frame <NUM> toward the elements <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates an example cable routing for combination cabling <NUM> similar to that shown in <FIG>, where the jumper cables are directed to an upper set of distribution elements <NUM> and trunk cables are directed to a lower set of distribution elements <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates an example cable routing for the fixed side of a left frame <NUM> of the cross-connect assembly <NUM> where a plurality of elements <NUM> on different levels receive fibers to be spliced from a single OSP cable <NUM> fixed at the side of one of the elements <NUM> in a grouping. <FIG> illustrates an example cable routing similar to that shown in <FIG> for the fixed side of the right frame <NUM> of the cross-connect assembly <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates the mounting of a group of elements <NUM> where fibers to be spliced from a single OSP cable <NUM> fixed at the side of the one of the elements <NUM> is routed to all of the elements <NUM> in the group, where the length of cabling <NUM> is provided with enough slack to accommodate the mounting.

<FIG> illustrates the positioning of the fan-outs using fixation assemblies <NUM> that can be mounted on the left frame <NUM> of the cross-connect assembly <NUM> for the trunk cables coming from a top of the frame <NUM> and <FIG> illustrates a perspective view of the left frame <NUM> of the cross-connect assembly <NUM> with an example fan-out fixation assembly <NUM> being used to break out trunk cables. As noted previously, examples of fan-out fixation assemblies <NUM> that can be used on the frames <NUM>, <NUM> is illustrated in <FIG>.

<FIG> illustrates a schematic showing the use of a combination of OSP splice cables directed to from the bottom of the cross-connect assembly <NUM> toward the lower elements <NUM> and trunk cables with fan-outs directed from the top of the cross-connect assembly <NUM> toward the upper elements <NUM>. <FIG> illustrates a group of elements <NUM> designated for splicing fibers from an OSP cable to other groups of elements <NUM> within a frame <NUM>/<NUM> at the fixed side of the cross-connect assembly <NUM>. An example of a dedicated splice element <NUM> is shown in <FIG>.

As noted above, an overlength bay <NUM> can be used between two of the cross-connect frame assemblies <NUM>. Such an overlength bay <NUM> is illustrated in <FIG> being used between two cross-connect assemblies <NUM>. <FIG> is a perspective view of the overlength bay <NUM> of <FIG> shown in isolation and <FIG> illustrates the overlength bay <NUM> of <FIG> in an unassembled configuration. As shown, the overlength bay <NUM> includes a column of the overlength drums <NUM> that are provided in a vertically stacked arrangement with a bundle collector <NUM> positioned toward the bottom of the overlength bay <NUM>. A bottom trough portion <NUM> of the overlength bay <NUM> is designed to continue the troughing system <NUM> provided by the cross-connect frame assemblies <NUM> when the overlength bay <NUM> is positioned between them. Door mounts <NUM>, similar to those used on the right and left frames <NUM>, <NUM> of the cross-connect assembly <NUM> are also provided on the overlength bay <NUM> for providing coverage for the internal features if needed.

The doors <NUM> for use on the frame assemblies <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> are discussed herein with reference to <FIG>. The doors <NUM> include upper and lower spring loaded rods <NUM> that are insertable into rod receivers <NUM> that are provided on the door mounts <NUM>. As shown, each rod receiver <NUM> defines a channel <NUM> with a tapered surface <NUM> that allows guiding of a door rod <NUM> into the channel <NUM> where the spring-loaded rod <NUM> can snap into a hinge opening <NUM> after riding along the tapered surface <NUM>.

The spring-loaded rods <NUM> of the doors <NUM> allow the doors <NUM> to be pivotally opened in either direction. Each door <NUM> includes left and right squeeze handles <NUM>. The handles <NUM> form part of a door latch system that allows a given door <NUM> to be pivotally opened in a selected direction. The pair of handles <NUM> on the right side of the door <NUM> are coupled to upper and lower spring-loaded rods <NUM> on the right side. And, the pair of handles <NUM> on the left side of the door <NUM> are coupled to upper and lower spring-loaded rods <NUM> on the left side Pressing a set of either the right or the left handles <NUM> toward each other moves the upper rod <NUM> downwardly and moves the lower rod <NUM> upwardly. When the rods <NUM> clear the hinge openings <NUM>, the rods <NUM> can move out of the channels <NUM> and the door <NUM> is free to swing out, pivoting about the rods <NUM> that are positioned on the opposite side.

In the same manner, the door <NUM> can be pivoted pivotally opened in the other direction. It should be noted that a door <NUM> can be entirely removed from a frame assembly <NUM>/<NUM>/<NUM> if both sets of handles <NUM> on the right and left sides are squeezed together, removing all four spring-loaded rods <NUM> from the hinge openings <NUM>. <FIG> illustrates another version of a rod receiver <NUM> for mounting on the door mounts <NUM> of the frame assemblies <NUM>/<NUM>/<NUM>.

It should be noted that the doors <NUM> for the inter-connect frame <NUM> assembly can be configured similar to the doors <NUM> for the cross-connect assembly <NUM>. However, as shown in <FIG>, the door mounts <NUM> on the inter-connect frame <NUM> are mounted adjacent the floor in a data-center, and, thus, the doors <NUM> can extend all the way down to the floor since a bottom trough is not utilized in an inter-connect application.

The inter-connect frame assembly <NUM> is shown in closer detail in <FIG> and <FIG>. As noted above, the inter-connect frame assembly <NUM> is designed for applications with little or no re-patching requirements, where the mounted distribution devices <NUM> define an OSP cable side <NUM> and an equipment cable side <NUM>.

In the depicted example, the left side of the inter-connect frame <NUM> may be designated and configured as the OSP side <NUM> and the right side may be designated and configured as the equipment side <NUM>. At both the OSP side <NUM> and the equipment side <NUM>, the frame defines top openings <NUM> for incoming and outgoing cables <NUM>.

It should be noted that the left OSP side <NUM> of the inter-connect frame <NUM> may be configured in a similar manner as the fixed side of the frames <NUM>, <NUM> of the cross-connect assembly <NUM>. The equipment side <NUM> utilizes, in addition to overlength drums <NUM> that are provided in a vertical stack, upper and lower hook drums <NUM>. The hook drums <NUM> are configured to guide cabling <NUM> from the elements <NUM> downwardly and around the bottom sides of the overlength drums <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. Dividers <NUM> can be provided to separate cables <NUM> coming from the elements <NUM> and cables <NUM> that have been routed around the hook drums <NUM>. Examples of the hook drums <NUM> are discussed in further detail below.

Fan-out fixation assemblies similar to fixation assemblies <NUM> noted above may be used at the right and left side <NUM>, <NUM> of the inter-connect frame <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrate the types of cables <NUM> on the OSP side <NUM> of the elements <NUM> that can be paired with the types of cables <NUM> on the equipment side <NUM> of the elements <NUM> that are provided on the inter-connect frame <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, splice cables at the OSP side <NUM> can be paired with individual jumpers at the equipment side <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, splice cables at the OSP side <NUM> can be paired with trunk cables utilizing fan-outs at the equipment side <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, trunk cables utilizing fan-outs at the OSP side <NUM> can be paired individual jumpers at the equipment side <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, trunk cables utilizing fan-outs at the OSP side <NUM> can be paired with trunk cables utilizing fan-outs at the equipment side <NUM>. And, as shown in <FIG>, trunk cables utilizing fan-outs at the OSP side <NUM> can be paired with individual jumpers at the equipment side <NUM>.

<FIG> schematically illustrates one example of the cable routing that can be used on the inter-connect frame <NUM> for trunk cables on the OSP side <NUM> and trunk cables on the equipment side <NUM>. <FIG> physically illustrates an example cable routing on the equipment side <NUM> of the inter-connect assembly <NUM>, where the hook drums <NUM> and the overlength drums <NUM> are illustrated as being utilized.

Referring now to <FIG>, alternative examples of either the cross-connect assembly or the inter-connect assembly and the modular packaging for such assemblies is illustrated.

For example, <FIG> illustrates an example cable routing on the cross-connect assembly <NUM> using a combination of different types of overlength drums at the center of the assembly including fixed drums <NUM> and slide drums <NUM>.

<FIG> relate to the packaging of the frame assemblies <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> of the present disclosure. <FIG> illustrates the left frame <NUM> of the cross-connect frame assembly <NUM> in an empty configuration without any of the mounted distribution elements <NUM>, ready to be disassembled for packaging and <FIG> illustrates the right frame <NUM> of the cross-connect frame assembly <NUM> in an empty configuration without any of the mounted distribution elements <NUM>, ready to be disassembled for packaging.

<FIG> illustrates the frame <NUM> of the inter-connect assembly <NUM> in an empty configuration without any of the mounted distribution elements <NUM>, ready to be disassembled for packaging. <FIG> illustrates another perspective view of the overlength bay <NUM>, ready to be disassembled for packaging. <FIG> illustrates another perspective view of the left frame <NUM> of the cross-connect frame assembly <NUM>, ready to be disassembled for packaging. <FIG> illustrates the left frame <NUM> of <FIG> in a disassembled configuration, ready for packaging. <FIG> illustrates parts of the disassembled frame <NUM> of <FIG> organized for placement into a packaging box <NUM>. And, <FIG> illustrates the packaging box <NUM> for use in transporting the frame <NUM> of <FIG>.

<FIG> illustrates an alternative embodiment of a cross-connect frame assembly <NUM> having features that are similar to the assembly <NUM> shown in <FIG>, where the right and left frames <NUM>, <NUM> utilize separating fins <NUM> for forced routing between the flexible sides of the frames <NUM>, <NUM>. As shown, the fins <NUM> are designed to provide an error-proof method as the patch cables <NUM> are guided toward and around the overlength drums <NUM> at the left and right frames <NUM>, <NUM>. Toward the center <NUM> at each of the left and right frames <NUM>, <NUM> are also provide vertical dividers <NUM> for keeping cabling <NUM> organized as the cabling <NUM> extends around further overlength drums <NUM> provided at the center bottom of the frame assembly <NUM>. <FIG> illustrates an example cable routing utilizing the separating fins <NUM> of the cross-connect frame assembly <NUM> of <FIG> and <FIG> illustrates the separating fins <NUM> of <FIG> in closer detail.

<FIG> illustrates push-through type cable management structures <NUM> that can be used with the separating fins <NUM> of the cross-connect frame assembly <NUM> of <FIG> for keeping cable bundles <NUM> organized. Such cable management structures <NUM> and similar structures utilizing push-through designs are discussed below and illustrated in <FIG>.

<FIG> illustrates a color-coding concept that can be used to keep track of the cable routings between the flexible sides of the frames <NUM>, <NUM> on another example of a cross-connect frame assembly <NUM>. According to this concept, different colored cabling may be used for designating different routing directions. For example, according to one example, a color such as white may be used for cabling <NUM> going to or coming from the bottom trough. Red could be used for cabling <NUM> going to or coming from the top trough. Green could be used for internal return routing. Yellow could be used to indicate cabling <NUM> going to or coming from an adjacent frame. Pink could be used for cabling <NUM> going to or coming from a back side frame.

Referring now to <FIG>, the various cable management structures that are used in certain locations throughout the frame assemblies <NUM>/<NUM> or on the overlength bay <NUM> are shown in closer detail.

<FIG> illustrate one example of the overlength drum <NUM> that is used on the frame assemblies <NUM>/<NUM> or on the overlength bay <NUM>. The overlength drum <NUM> is configured to be removably mounted to certain locations on the frame assemblies <NUM>/<NUM> or on the overlength bay <NUM> and is used to manage or support extra cable length or slack.

The designated frame walls <NUM> may be designed with a universal type mounting interface such that a given wall <NUM> can removably receive different types of cable management structures depending on the cable management need.

One example of a mounting interface between a given frame wall <NUM> and an example overlength drum <NUM> will be described with reference to <FIG>. As shown in <FIG>, the mounting features that are provided on a frame wall <NUM> include a plurality of slots <NUM>, each defining an upper wider portion <NUM> (i.e., receiver portion) and a lower narrower portion <NUM> (i.e., retention portion). In the depicted example, two such slots <NUM> are vertically aligned in a first column on the frame wall <NUM> and two such slots <NUM> are vertically aligned on a second column spaced apart from the first column. Between the two columns is positioned a latch opening <NUM>, the significance of which will be described in further detail below.

The example of the overlength drum <NUM> that will be used to describe the mounting mechanism between a frame wall <NUM> and the drum <NUM> is shown in <FIG>.

As shown, the depicted overlength drum <NUM> defines a fixation portion <NUM>, a bend radius protection portion <NUM> extending from the fixation portion <NUM>, and a cable retention portion <NUM> positioned at the end of the bend radius protection portion <NUM>. With the cable retention portion <NUM> having both upward and downward extensions <NUM>, the depicted overlength drum <NUM> provides a generally T-shaped configuration.

The bend radius protection portion <NUM> defines a generally cylindrical profile providing the curvature needed for radius protection for cables routed on the overlength drum <NUM>.

The fixation portion <NUM> defines the mating mounting features that are designed to mate with the mounting features that are provided on a frame wall <NUM>. The fixation portion <NUM> includes a plurality of hook-like members <NUM>. Two hook-like members <NUM> are vertically aligned in a first column and two hook-like members <NUM> are vertically aligned in a second column spaced apart from the first column. Between the two columns is positioned a flexible latch <NUM> with a retaining tab <NUM> extending rearward from the latch <NUM>.

Each hook-like member <NUM> defines a vertical retention portion <NUM> that defines a larger profile. Each hook-like member <NUM> also defines a vertical slide portion <NUM> that has a thinner profile than the vertical retention portion <NUM>, wherein the slide portion <NUM> is oriented perpendicular to the retention portion <NUM> and connects the retention portion <NUM> to a rear wall <NUM> defined by the fixation portion <NUM> of the overlength drum <NUM>. Each hook-like member <NUM> also defines a horizontal stop portion <NUM> that is oriented perpendicular to both the slide portion <NUM> and the retention portion <NUM>, where the horizontal stop portion <NUM> also connects the larger retention portion <NUM> to the rear wall <NUM>.

As shown, the vertical slide portion <NUM> and the horizontal stop portion <NUM> are connected to the vertical retention portion <NUM> of the hook-like members <NUM> such that they meet at the inner, upper corner of the retention portion <NUM>.

When the overlength drum <NUM> is being mounted to a frame wall <NUM>, the larger vertical retention portions <NUM> are aligned with and passed through the upper wider receiver portions <NUM> of the slots <NUM>. The hook-like members <NUM> are then slid downwardly with the vertical slide portions <NUM> sliding within the lower narrower retention portions <NUM> of the slots <NUM>. The hook-like members <NUM> are slid downwardly until the horizontal stop portions <NUM> abut the apertures forming the ends of the wider receiver portions <NUM> of the slots <NUM> to stop the slidable movement of the hook-like members <NUM>. When the hook-like members <NUM> are being slidably mounted, the flexible latch <NUM> of the fixation portion <NUM> of the drum <NUM> is elastically flexed, riding along the wall <NUM>. At the point the horizontal stop portions <NUM> abut the slot apertures, stopping the movement of the hook-like members <NUM>, the flexible latch <NUM> can flex back under a bias with the retaining tab <NUM> snapping into the latch opening <NUM> that is positioned in the middle of the two columns of slots <NUM> on the frame wall <NUM>.

The mounting features essentially provide a dove-tail type mounting interface between the frame wall <NUM> and the overlength drum <NUM>. However, the thinner vertical slide portions <NUM> and the horizontal stop portions <NUM> are formed at the edges of the larger retention portion <NUM> and meet at a corner of the retention portion <NUM> to provide extra stiffness to the hook-like members <NUM>. The upper wider portions <NUM> and the lower narrower portions <NUM> of the slots <NUM> are provided to match the mounting features defined by the hook-like members <NUM>.

When the hook-like members <NUM> have been slid all the way down, the larger retention portions <NUM> overlap with the lower narrower portions <NUM> of the slots <NUM> and abut an opposing side of the frame wall <NUM> to retain the hook-like members <NUM> against the frame wall <NUM>. The retaining tab <NUM> of the flexible latch <NUM> abuts the upper edge <NUM> of the aperture defining the latching slot <NUM> to prevent unwanted upward movement of the drum <NUM>. If the drum <NUM> needs to be removed, the retaining tab <NUM> can be pushed away from the wall <NUM> toward the drum <NUM>, elastically flexing the latch <NUM>, until the tab <NUM> clears the wall <NUM>, and the drum <NUM> can be slid upwardly.

It should be noted that in the depicted embodiment, the fixation portion <NUM> of the drum <NUM> defines a base <NUM> that is large enough in perimeter to fully surround the mounting features of the fixation portion <NUM>. The base <NUM> of the fixation portion <NUM> abuts the frame wall <NUM> and provides extra stiffness for protection against bending forces on the drum <NUM>.

As shown, the flexible latch <NUM> of the drum <NUM> is fully surrounded by an aperture <NUM> defined by the base <NUM> of the fixation portion <NUM>. Only the retaining tab <NUM> protrudes out of the aperture <NUM>. The base <NUM> fully surrounding the flexible latch <NUM> limits pinching of any fiber optic cables between the latch <NUM> and the frame wall <NUM>.

In certain examples, an additional fastener hole <NUM> may be provided both on the base <NUM> defined by the fixation portion <NUM> of the drum <NUM> and on the frame wall <NUM> for extra fastening and safety. Such an example is shown in <FIG>.

As also shown in an example in <FIG>, the overlength drum <NUM> may also define a longitudinal slot <NUM> extending from the rear of the drum <NUM> toward the front. The longitudinal slot <NUM> may be used to receive a central wall if the drum <NUM> is going to be placed at the upper edge of a separator wall or a different transversely extending wall structure on one of the frame assemblies <NUM>/<NUM> or on the overlength bay <NUM>.

In certain other embodiments, flanges <NUM> defined by the cable retention portions <NUM> of the drums <NUM> that are positioned at the ends of the bend radius protection portions <NUM> may define different various shapes. As shown in <FIG>, the flanges <NUM> may include bent portions <NUM> forming staggered openings <NUM> for facilitating insertion of cables when the drums <NUM> are provided in a vertically stacked arrangement.

As also shown in <FIG>, the flanges <NUM> may provide an angled profile <NUM> to form angled openings <NUM> for facilitating insertion of cables when the drums <NUM> are provided in a vertically stacked arrangement.

<FIG> illustrates an example of a hook-drum <NUM> that can be used on certain locations throughout the telecommunications frame assembly <NUM> of the present disclosure. It should be noted that the hook drum <NUM> includes the same mounting features that were discussed above with respect to the overlength drum <NUM> such that it can interface with the universal type mounting features provided on a given frame wall <NUM>.

As shown, the hook drum <NUM> defines bend radius protection along two perpendicular planes. The bend radius protection portion <NUM> extending from the fixation portion <NUM> provides bend radius protection along a vertical plane. The flange <NUM> defined by the cable retention portion <NUM> is also curved to provide bend radius protection along a horizontal plane that is perpendicular to the vertical plane. The drum <NUM> is referred to as a hook drum since essentially the entire cable retention portion <NUM> extends upwardly from the bend radius protection portion <NUM>, forming a generally L-shaped configuration.

An example embodiment of the bundle collectors <NUM> that are used throughout the cross-connect frame assemblies <NUM> or on the overlength bay <NUM> is illustrated in <FIG>. As shown, the depicted bundle collector <NUM> defines a fixation portion <NUM> that uses similar features to those described above with respect to the overlength drums <NUM> and the hook drums <NUM> for removably snap-fitting the bundle collectors <NUM> to a frame wall <NUM>. In the depicted example, each bundle collector <NUM> includes two rows of hook-like members <NUM> that are spaced apart further than those shown from the overlength and hook drums and also two flexible latches <NUM> positioned in the middle of the hook-like members <NUM>. As such, the bundle collectors <NUM> are designed to be mounted to frame walls <NUM> that have mating mounting features.

Each bundle collector <NUM> defines a rear bend radius protection portion <NUM> and right and left bend radius protection portions <NUM>, <NUM> that extend from the rear bend radius protection portion <NUM>. The right and left bend radius protection portions <NUM>, <NUM> define inwardly extending portions <NUM> that cooperatively form a cable insertion slot <NUM>. As shown, with the rear portion <NUM>, the right and left portions <NUM>, <NUM> and the inwardly extending portions <NUM> thereof, the bundle collector <NUM> defines a central cable channel <NUM> with bend radius protection when leading cabling out in four different directions.

As shown in <FIG>, each bundle collector <NUM> defines features for mating in a side-to-side relationship with another bundle collector <NUM> to form a double bundle collector. Adjacent the front of each bundle collector <NUM>, on opposite sides, are provided a dovetail tab <NUM> and a dovetail slot <NUM>, respectively, for slidable mounting of a bundle collector <NUM> to a similarly configured bundle collector <NUM>.

Also, as shown, each of the right and left bend radius protection portions <NUM>, <NUM> of the bundle collector <NUM> define snap openings <NUM> for selectively receiving radius extenders <NUM> with a snap-fit interlock.

When two bundle collectors <NUM> are mounted next to each other or a radius extender <NUM> is mounted to one of the bundle collectors <NUM>, a full circular drum is formed for providing bend radius protection to cables.

An alternative L-shaped edge protector or extender <NUM> is shown in <FIG>, where the edge protector <NUM> can be snap-fit to one of the bundle collectors <NUM> using the snap openings <NUM>. The edge protectors <NUM> can be used in the manner shown in <FIG> to provide extra protection for cable slack.

Now referring to <FIG>, one of the sliding drums <NUM> that can alternatively be used throughout parts of the telecommunications frame assemblies <NUM>/<NUM> or on the overlength bay <NUM> is described in further detail. As shown, the sliding drum <NUM> defines a fixed part <NUM> that is configured to be mounted to a frame wall <NUM> and a movable part <NUM> that can slidably move away from the fixed <NUM> part to facilitate cable access.

It should be noted that the fixed part <NUM> defines a fixation portion <NUM> that may use similar mounting features to those described above with respect to the overlength drums <NUM> and the hook drums <NUM> for removably snap-fitting the sliding drums <NUM> to a frame wall <NUM>.

The fixed part <NUM> of the slide drum <NUM> defines upper and lower support portions <NUM>, <NUM> that extend from the fixation portion <NUM>. The upper and lower support portions <NUM>, <NUM> receive and guide the movable part <NUM> of the drum <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, the movable part <NUM> is removably mounted to the fixed part <NUM> of the drum <NUM> between the upper and lower support portions <NUM>, <NUM>. The movable part <NUM> defines a slide tab <NUM> that has a generally dovetail type structure (defining a connector portion <NUM> and a larger retention portion <NUM>) that can be inserted through an opening <NUM> at the upper support portion <NUM>. Once inserted through the opening <NUM>, the connector portion <NUM> of the slide tab <NUM> slides along a narrow slit <NUM> defined by the upper support portion <NUM>. The retention portion <NUM> of the slide tab <NUM> prevents separation of the slide tab <NUM> from the narrow slit <NUM> until it is aligned with the opening <NUM>. The narrow slit <NUM> essentially defines a longitudinal track for the movement movable part <NUM> of the drum <NUM>.

The upper support portion <NUM>, at both ends of the narrow slit <NUM>, defines positive stops <NUM> for abutting the retention portion <NUM> of the slide tab <NUM>. The positive stops <NUM> are also configured to form snap-fit interlock structures <NUM> for retaining the slide tab <NUM> at the ends of the track unless a force overcoming the frictional force provided by the snap-fit interlock structures <NUM> starts moving the movable part <NUM> of the drum <NUM>.

As shown, each of the upper and lower support portion <NUM>, <NUM> defines intermating grip features <NUM> for flexibly snap-fitting two of the drums <NUM> in a vertically stacked configuration. As shown, the intermating grip features <NUM> on a lower support portion <NUM> of a given drum <NUM> is oriented in an opposite orientation with respect to the grip features <NUM> on an upper support portion <NUM> of a given drum <NUM> for providing the intermating capability.

As also shown, the lower support portion <NUM> of the slide drum <NUM> may define slots <NUM> adjacent the front and the back that are used to receive a central wall if the slide drum <NUM> is going to be placed at the upper edge of a separator wall or a different transversely extending wall structure on one of the frame assemblies <NUM>/<NUM> or on the overlength bay <NUM>.

Another version of a slide drum <NUM> is illustrated in <FIG>. In the version illustrated in <FIG>, the fixed part <NUM> is provided with an angle to a vertical frame wall <NUM> such that the movable part <NUM> moves both outwardly and upwardly with respect to the fixation portion <NUM> of the drum <NUM>. In this manner, the movable part <NUM>, since it is at an angle, can automatically slide back to its unextended position under the weight of any cabling.

As shown, a finger grip <NUM> could be added for facilitating movement of the movable part <NUM>. Also, a snap mechanism <NUM> can be provided for retaining the movable part <NUM> on the fixed part <NUM> once the two parts have been assembled together. As shown, the snap mechanism <NUM> may be formed by flexible cantilever arms <NUM> that abut enlarged portions <NUM> of a pair of rails <NUM> of the movable part <NUM>, where the rails <NUM> are designed to slide along slits <NUM> provided on both sides of the fixed part <NUM>.

In other embodiments, instead of providing an angle for automatic movement of the movable part <NUM>, the movable part <NUM> may include a spring-loaded design, where the spring provides a bias on the movable part <NUM> for automatically pulling the movable part <NUM> back to its original position when a technician is done loading the drum <NUM> with cabling or unloading the drum <NUM>.

Even though the above described cable management structures have been illustrated and discussed herein as being used within the telecommunications frame assemblies <NUM>/<NUM> or on the overlength bay <NUM> of the present disclosure, it should be noted that these elements can be utilized in any telecommunications fixture, such as a frame, a panel, or a rack, where cable slack needs to be managed, as long as the walls of such fixtures are designed with the mounting features described above.

As discussed above, the cross-connect assembly <NUM> is designed to allow patching between elements <NUM> supported by a right frame and elements <NUM> supported by a left frame, where the first side <NUM> (e.g., left side) of each of the elements in the left frame and the second side <NUM> (e.g., right side) of each of the elements in the right frame are considered the fixed sides of the cross-connect assembly <NUM> and where the center portion of the cross-connect assembly <NUM> is designed as the flexible side allowing re-patching of cabling between the elements on the right and left frames.

<FIG> illustrate one example embodiment of a cable management structure <NUM> that can be used on the flexible patching side of one of the fiber distribution elements housed by the cross-connect assembly <NUM>. It should be noted that the cable management structure <NUM> can be designed to be mounted on either side <NUM>/<NUM> of an element <NUM>, depending on whether the element <NUM> is mounted on the right frame or the left frame of the cross-connect assembly <NUM> since the flexible side of the cross-connect assembly is positioned toward the center. The cable management structures <NUM> can also be used on either side of the inter-connect assembly <NUM> as discussed above.

The cable management structures <NUM> are configured to be in a vertically stacked arrangement when mounted to vertically stacked optical fiber distribution elements <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, each optical fiber distribution element <NUM> is provided with mounting features <NUM> (e.g., slots) for slidably receiving the cable management structures <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, each cable management structure <NUM> includes mounting features <NUM> that are configured to mate with the mounting features in the form of slots <NUM> provided on the optical fiber distribution elements <NUM> for sliding in and snap-fitting the cable management structures <NUM> to the optical fiber distribution elements <NUM>. The mounting features <NUM> of the cable management structure <NUM> include a dovetail configuration <NUM> and are slidably inserted into the slots <NUM> of the optical fiber distribution elements <NUM>. A flexible tab <NUM> provided at the rear side of the cable management structure <NUM> is used to latch and fix the cable management structure <NUM> relative to the optical fiber distribution element <NUM>. The flexible tab <NUM> is also used to unlatch the cable management structure <NUM> from the optical fiber distribution element <NUM> before the dovetail structures <NUM> are slid in a direction opposite to the insertion direction for removing the cable management structure <NUM> from the slots <NUM> of the optical fiber distribution element <NUM>. It should be noted that the intermating mounting features of the optical fiber distribution elements <NUM> and the cable management structures <NUM> are similar in form and function to that described in PCT Patent Application Serial Number <CIT>, and therefore, further details relating thereto will not be discussed herein.

Referring to <FIG>, each cable management structure <NUM> defines a cable guiding base portion <NUM> and a movable clip portion <NUM> for retaining cables. As noted above, the base portion <NUM> defines the mounting features <NUM> for snap-fitting the cable management structure <NUM> to an optical fiber distribution element <NUM>. As shown, the base portion <NUM> defines an upper guide portion <NUM> and a lower guide portion <NUM>. Between the upper and lower guide portions <NUM>, <NUM> is defined a cable channel <NUM> that extends from a front opening <NUM> to a rear opening <NUM> of the cable management structure <NUM>. A slit <NUM> is defined between the upper guide portion <NUM> and the lower guide portion <NUM> that allows cables to be inserted into the channel <NUM>. The slit <NUM> communicates with the cable channel <NUM> and allows entry of cables into the channel <NUM>. Each of the upper and lower guide portions <NUM>, <NUM> defines radius limiting curves for leading fiber optic cabling either upwardly or downwardly while providing bend limit protection to the fibers of the cabling.

The movable clip portion <NUM> is configured to close the slit <NUM> for retaining the cables in the channel <NUM>. The movable clip portion <NUM> is also designed to facilitate insertion of cables into the channel <NUM> as will be discussed below.

The clip <NUM> defines a fixation portion <NUM> for snap fitting to the base <NUM> of the cable management structure <NUM>. An elongate portion <NUM> of the clip <NUM> is elastically flexible with respect to the fixation portion <NUM>. The elongate portion <NUM> allows the clip to be flexed under a bias. The clip <NUM> is biased upwardly to close the slit <NUM>. As shown, the elongate portion <NUM> of the clip <NUM> is accommodated by a partition <NUM> positioned at the lower guide portion <NUM>. The partition <NUM> allows the elongate portion <NUM> of the clip <NUM> to be flexed between downward and upward directions.

A finger tab <NUM> is defined at the end of the elongate portion <NUM> of the clip <NUM>. The finger tab <NUM> can be accessed by the finger of a technician for flexing the clip <NUM> downwardly. The finger tab <NUM> protrudes out slightly from side faces <NUM> defined by the upper and lower guide portions <NUM>, <NUM> for both facilitating the insertion of cabling into the cable management structure <NUM> and for access by the finger of a technician in removal of cabling from the cable management structure <NUM>.

The finger tab <NUM> defines a tapered side face <NUM> and a tapered front face <NUM>. The tapered faces <NUM>, <NUM> allow cables to be inserted into the slit <NUM> and to automatically force the clip <NUM> downwardly by contact therewith as the cables are being fed into the channel <NUM>. The tapered front face <NUM> of the clip <NUM> allows cabling that is being inserted into the channel <NUM> from the front opening <NUM> toward the rear opening <NUM> to contact the clip <NUM> and to start forcing the clip <NUM> to flex downwardly. Thus, the tapered surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> of the clip <NUM> are designed such that, when contacted by cabling along a first direction, the tapered surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> force movement of the flexible portion <NUM> under a bias in a second direction that is different than the first direction. In the shown example, the first direction is a lateral direction of the cables being inserted and the second direction is along an upward to downward direction for the movement of the clip <NUM>.

After insertion of the cable into the channel <NUM>, the movable clip <NUM> flexes upwardly under its inherent bias to retain the cables within the channel <NUM>. As shown, the elongate portion <NUM> of the clip <NUM> also defines a certain amount of curvature that mates with the curved portions of the upper and lower guide portions <NUM>, <NUM> to assist with bend radius protection. As also shown, the clip <NUM> defines a vertical wall <NUM> at the opposing inner side <NUM> of the finger tab <NUM> that is configured to keep cables retained within the channel <NUM>. The vertical wall <NUM> defines a lip <NUM> that extends partially over the inner side <NUM> of the upper guide portion <NUM> to provide extra protection against unwanted removal of cables from the cable management structure <NUM>.

With the design thereof, including the flexible clip <NUM>, the cable management structure <NUM> acts as a push-in structure for facilitating insertion of the cables into the channel <NUM>. Due to the tapered surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> defined by the finger tab <NUM>, the cables simply have to be pushed toward the slit <NUM> of the cable management structure <NUM> to automatically contact and flex the elongate portion <NUM> of the clip <NUM> downwardly. And, as noted above, after the clip <NUM> has biased back to its original position, if the cables need to be removed, the clip <NUM> has to be acted on by a technician to flex it down to expose the slit <NUM> for removal of the cables.

Referring now to <FIG>, an alternative embodiment of a cable management structure <NUM> is shown. The cable management structure <NUM> is similar in form and function to the cable management structure <NUM> illustrated in <FIG> and described above and also includes a flexible clip <NUM>. In the version shown in <FIG>, a portion of the flexible clip <NUM> forms a part of the lower guide <NUM> and includes curvature for guiding cables transversely out of the channel <NUM>.

Another version of a cable management structure <NUM> is illustrated in <FIG>, the version of the cable management structure <NUM> shown in <FIG> defines a cover portion <NUM> with a finger tab <NUM> that has to be manually flexed downwardly in exposing the slit <NUM> for insertion of cables. The cable management structure <NUM> does not defined a separately formed clip portion. The cover portion <NUM> is designed as being integrally formed with the lower guide portion <NUM> as shown, where the cover portion <NUM> is flexible enough to elastically move with respect to the upper guide portion <NUM> to expose the slit <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates another alternative embodiment of a cable management structure <NUM>. The version <NUM> shown in <FIG> is designed as a push-in structure for insertion of the cables into the channel <NUM>. Similar to the management structure <NUM> shown in <FIG>, the cable management structure <NUM> does not have a separate flexible clip for covering the slit <NUM>. The lower guide portion <NUM> is elastically flexible with respect to the upper guide portion <NUM>. The lower guide portion <NUM> is designed with an integrally formed blocker <NUM> toward the rear end thereof. The blocker <NUM> defines a tapered face <NUM> that tapers toward the front of the cable management structure <NUM>. The tapered face <NUM> is designed to be automatically contacted by the cables for flexing of the lower guide portion <NUM> during insertion of cables. Due to the tapered surface <NUM>, the cables simply have to be inserted into the slit <NUM> and once the cables approach the rear end <NUM> of the slit <NUM>, the lower guide portion <NUM> is automatically contacted and flexed downwardly for complete insertion of the cables into the channel <NUM>. After insertion, the lower guide portion <NUM> flexes upwardly with the blocker <NUM> preventing unwanted removal of cables from the channel <NUM>. The lower guide portion <NUM> defines a finger tab <NUM> adjacent the blocker <NUM> for manual flexing of the lower guide portion <NUM> for removal of cables.

<FIG> illustrates another alternative embodiment of a cable management structure <NUM> that is provided as a push-in structure. In the version shown in <FIG>, both the upper and lower guide portions <NUM>, <NUM> are flexible for receiving the cables into the channel <NUM>. The upper and lower guide portions <NUM>, <NUM> cooperatively define a notch <NUM> that guides the insertion of the cables into the channel <NUM>. When the upper and lower guide portions <NUM>, <NUM> are allowed to bias back to their original position, the upper and lower guides <NUM>, <NUM> abut each other to seal the side opening <NUM> into the channel <NUM>. In the version shown in <FIG>, the upper and lower guide portions <NUM>, <NUM> may be integrally formed as a single piece and can be mounted to a base portion <NUM> via a dovetail type interlock structure <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrate another embodiment of a cable management structure <NUM> that is similar in form and function to the version <NUM> shown in <FIG>. Similar to the version <NUM> shown in <FIG>, the cable management structure <NUM> provides a push-in design where at least one of the upper guide portion <NUM> and the lower guide portion <NUM> are elastically flexible.

<FIG> illustrates yet another embodiment of a cable management structure <NUM> where at least a portion of the lower guide <NUM> is elastically flexible in exposing the channel <NUM> for insertion of cables. As shown, the lower guide portion <NUM> is provided with an integrally formed finger tab <NUM> that facilitates guiding of the cables into the slit <NUM> and into the channel <NUM>. The finger tab <NUM> defines a face <NUM> that tapers down sideways for contact with the cables. As the cables are pushed-in toward the slit <NUM>, the cables contact the finger tab <NUM> and automatically move the tab <NUM> downwardly for exposing the channel <NUM> for insertion of the cables.

<FIG> illustrate various alternative embodiments of cable management structures that utilize the push-through concept in automatic insertion of cables into a cable management channel and retaining therein. As discussed below, some of the cable management structures may be designed to be mounted to the optical fiber distribution elements <NUM> themselves and some may be designed to be mounted to various locations around the frame assemblies <NUM>/<NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a version of a cable management structure <NUM> that has a rigid fixation portion <NUM> that can be mounted to a fixture and a pair of rubber flaps <NUM> forming a push through portion for insertion of cabling into a channel <NUM> defined by the rigid fixation portion <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a version of a cable management structure <NUM> where a rigid fixation portion <NUM> defines two separate vertical cable channels 2818a, 2818b, each accessible via a push-through portion <NUM> formed by two flexible rubber flaps. As shown, at the exit of the second channel 2818b are provided curved portions <NUM> that provide bend radius protection both in the up and down direction and in the lateral direction.

<FIG> illustrates a version of a cable management structure <NUM> that includes a rigid fixation portion <NUM>, where the rigid fixation portion <NUM> is divided into two vertical channels <NUM> separated by a curved radius limiter <NUM>. Each of the adjacent channels <NUM> are accessed via push-through portions <NUM> formed by two flexible rubber flaps similar to the embodiments discussed above.

As noted above, even though some of the cable management structures have been designed for routing cabling around the frame assemblies <NUM>/<NUM> housing the optical fiber distribution elements <NUM>, the push-through concepts can be used on the elements <NUM> themselves.

Even though the above described cable management structures have been illustrated and discussed herein as being mounted to and used with the optical fiber distribution elements <NUM> of the present disclosure, it should be noted that these cable management structures can be utilized in other telecommunications panels and fixtures. The specifically depicted devices are only exemplary and are used to convey the concepts provided by the cable management structures.

<FIG> illustrate some example embodiments of strength member fixation structures that can be used on the fixed side of one of the fiber distribution elements housed by either the cross-connect assembly <NUM> or the inter-connect assembly <NUM> for fixing cabling to a side of the element <NUM> and directing cabling into the elements. It should be noted that the fixation structures can be designed to be mounted on either side <NUM>/<NUM> of an element <NUM>, depending on whether the element <NUM> is mounted on the right frame or the left frame of the cross-connect assembly <NUM> since the fixed sides of the cross-connect assembly is positioned toward the exterior. A similar scenario is applicable to the inter-connect assembly <NUM> depending upon which side of the element requires fixation.

In the depicted example, each optical fiber distribution element <NUM> is configured to receive an associated strength member fixation structure such that the fixation structures can be provided in a vertically stacked arrangement when mounted to vertically stacked optical fiber distribution elements <NUM>. In this manner, a cable carrying a large number of fibers can be fixed to a single fixation structure and the individual fibers can be led to different elements <NUM> on the vertical stack utilizing the cable guiding features of the stacked fixation structures. An example of an assembly that shows a given cable fixed with respect to each element <NUM> is illustrated in <FIG>. An example of an assembly where the fibers coming out of a single larger cable are distributed to a plurality of elements <NUM> in a vertical stack is illustrated in <FIG>.

Referring now to <FIG>, one specific example embodiment of a strength member fixation structure <NUM> is illustrated. The depicted fixation structure <NUM> includes a base <NUM> and a cable bracket <NUM>. In the depicted example, the cable bracket <NUM> is configured to be mounted to the base <NUM> in one of two different angled orientations. In a first orientation, the cable bracket <NUM> is snap-fit such that the bracket <NUM> is angled downwardly with respect to a longitudinal axis L defined by the base <NUM> of the fixation structure <NUM>. In a second orientation, the same cable bracket <NUM> can be snap-fit to the base <NUM> such that the bracket <NUM> is angled upwardly with respect to the longitudinal axis L defined by the base <NUM>. The angled mounting of the bracket <NUM> can be determined and selected by the needed cable routing extending toward the entry point of the optical distribution elements <NUM>. The angling of the cable bracket <NUM> provides a smoother transition from a vertically extending cable to a horizontal entry position for the elements <NUM>.

According to one example embodiment, the cable brackets <NUM> may be angled approximately <NUM> degrees with respect to the longitudinal axis L defined by the base <NUM>.

Still referring to <FIG>, the cable bracket <NUM> defines mounting structures <NUM> that intermate with mounting structures <NUM> provided on the base <NUM> for the selective angled mounting of the bracket <NUM>.

The intermating mounting structures provided by the cable bracket and the base for selective angled mounting of the cable bracket are illustrated in further detail in <FIG>. As shown, the rear end <NUM> of the base <NUM> is provided with two angles walls <NUM>, each defining a pair of mounting slots <NUM>. Each mounting slot <NUM> defines a wider receiver portion <NUM> and a narrower retention portion <NUM>. The cable bracket <NUM> defines a pair of dovetail structures <NUM> that are configured to align with the slots <NUM> of a selected wall <NUM> on the base <NUM>. Each dovetail structure <NUM> defines a stem portion <NUM> and a larger retention portion <NUM>. In addition to the dovetail structures <NUM>, the cable bracket <NUM> also defines a flexible latch <NUM> that is configured to snap fit into a latch opening <NUM> provided on each of the two angled walls <NUM> on the base <NUM>.

If the cable bracket <NUM> needs to be angled down, the upper, downwardly-angled wall 3012a is selected on the base <NUM>. If the cable bracket <NUM> needs to be angled up, the lower, upwardly-angled wall 3012b is selected on the base. Once the desired mounting wall <NUM> is selected on the base <NUM>, the retention portions <NUM> of the dovetail structures <NUM> are aligned with and passed though the wider receiver portions <NUM> of the slots <NUM>. The cable bracket <NUM> is then slid in a front to rear direction bringing the retention portions <NUM> of the dovetail structures <NUM> out of alignment from the wider receiver portions <NUM> of the slots <NUM>. In this manner, the cable bracket <NUM> is prevented from being removed from the base <NUM>. The sliding occurs until the flexible latch <NUM> flexes under a bias, snapping into the latch opening <NUM> that is positioned on the base <NUM>, locking the cable bracket <NUM> in the desired angled orientation relative to the base <NUM>.

It should be noted that the dovetail structures <NUM> of the cable bracket <NUM> define a generally triangular profile with opposing angled faces <NUM>. The angled faces <NUM> are designed to abut upper or lower walls <NUM> of the base <NUM> in providing rigidity to the angled mounting of the cable bracket <NUM> relative to the base <NUM>. A fully mounted configuration is shown in <FIG>.

If the cable bracket <NUM> needs to be removed from the base <NUM> to reverse the angled orientation, the flexible latch <NUM> is pressed until the latch <NUM> clears the latch opening <NUM> and the dovetail structures <NUM> are slid in the rear to front direction.

Now referring back to <FIG>, as shown, the cable bracket <NUM> is the portion that initially receives the cable jacket before the fibers or tubes carrying the fibers are routed out for entry into the elements <NUM>. The cable bracket <NUM> defines a cable channel <NUM> that defines a turn portion <NUM> for allowing cables to turn from a transverse direction toward the elements <NUM> to a parallel direction with respect to the elements <NUM>. By the time the cable enters the base <NUM> of the fixation structure <NUM>, the cable has transitioned to a position that is generally parallel to the side of the optical distribution element(s) <NUM>.

The cable bracket <NUM> may include an insert <NUM> for providing grip to the cable jacket adjacent the outer end <NUM> of the bracket <NUM>. In certain embodiments, the grip insert <NUM> may be shaped to provide fixation to certain types of cable jackets (e.g., flexible tube holders having a diameter of about <NUM>). Slots <NUM> are provided for accommodating cable-ties that may be used to fix various types of cable jackets of the cable to the bracket <NUM>.

A fixation clamp portion <NUM> of the cable bracket <NUM> for fixing a strength member of a cable is illustrated in <FIG>. It should be noted that the configuration and functionality of the fixation clamp <NUM> is similar to that described in PCT Patent Application Serial Nos. <CIT> and <CIT>, and therefore, further details relating thereto will not be discussed herein.

As shown, the fixation clamp <NUM> is adjacent the inner end <NUM> of the cable bracket <NUM> and is positioned on the cable bracket <NUM> prior to the turn portion <NUM>.

As shown, a cover <NUM> may be used to help guide the cabling from a transverse direction toward a parallel direction while providing bend radius protection. According to certain examples, the cover <NUM> may be transparent.

The cable bracket <NUM> is designed such that one or more methods of cable fixation can be utilized using the cable bracket <NUM>. The grip insert <NUM> may provide fixation to the jacket of the cable in addition to the cable-ties. The aramid yarns of the strength members may be additionally clamped by the fixation clamp <NUM>. In certain embodiments, simply the jacket of the cable can be fixed to the cable bracket <NUM> using the grip insert <NUM> and cable-ties.

For example according to certain embodiments, <NUM> or <NUM> cables having a diameter between about <NUM>-<NUM> may be fixed by the grip insert <NUM> and the cable-ties, wherein the strength members may be clamped by the fixation clamp <NUM>. According to another example, if <NUM> or <NUM> of such cables are being led to the distribution elements, just the jackets may be fixed with the grip inserts <NUM> and the cable-ties without the strength member fixation.

If a cable having a diameter between about <NUM>-<NUM> is used, the cable bracket <NUM> may be able to only accommodate a single cable, where the jacket of the cable and the strength member is fixed to the cable bracket <NUM>.

A flexible tube having a diameter of about <NUM> may be snap fit to the cable channel <NUM> defined by the cable bracket <NUM> and further fixed therein by the cover <NUM>.

The base <NUM> of the fixation structure <NUM> is the part of the fixation structure that is mountable to a side of a given optical distribution element <NUM>. As discussed above with respect to the cable management structures such as structures <NUM> that are mounted at the exit side of the elements <NUM>, each optical fiber distribution element <NUM> is provided with mounting features <NUM> (e.g., slots) for slidably receiving such structures. Similar to the cable management structures <NUM> discussed above, the base <NUM> of the fixation structure <NUM> can include mounting features <NUM> that are configured to mate with the mounting features in the form of slots <NUM> provided on the optical fiber distribution elements <NUM> for sliding in and snap-fitting the fixation structures <NUM> to the optical fiber distribution elements <NUM>. The mounting features <NUM> provided on the base <NUM> can include a dovetail configuration <NUM> and can be slidably inserted into the slots <NUM> of the optical fiber distribution elements <NUM> as discussed above in detail for the cable management structures <NUM>. As shown, similarly, a flexible tab <NUM> provided on the base <NUM> may be used to latch and fix the fixation structure <NUM> relative to the optical fiber distribution element <NUM>. The flexible tab <NUM> is also used to unlatch the fixation structure <NUM> from the optical fiber distribution element <NUM> before the dovetail structures <NUM> are slid in a direction opposite to the insertion direction for removing the fixation structure <NUM> from the slots <NUM> of the optical fiber distribution element <NUM>.

Still referring to the base portion <NUM> of the fixation structure <NUM>, the base portion <NUM> defines a set of rear groove plates <NUM> and a set of front groove plates <NUM>. The base <NUM> also defines a gap <NUM> between the front and rear groove plates <NUM>, <NUM>. The gap <NUM> can be used to route fibers or tubes holding fibers upwardly or downwardly to different elements <NUM> on different levels. An example is shown in <FIG> as noted previously. Radius limiters <NUM> may be provided on the base <NUM> at the gap <NUM> for providing bend radius protection while leading fibers or tubes upwardly or downwardly.

Provided toward the front <NUM> of the base <NUM> is also a tube-holder receiver <NUM>. The receiver <NUM> is configured to slidably receive a variety of different tube holders <NUM>, where the configuration of the tube holders <NUM> can be selected based on the different sizes of tubes carrying the fibers.

As shown in <FIG>, a plurality of tube holders <NUM> can be slidably inserted into the tube-holder receiver <NUM>. The tube-holders <NUM> may be coupled with a dovetail type interlock <NUM>.

Similar to the cover <NUM> shown for the cable bracket <NUM>, a transparent cover <NUM> can also be used on the base <NUM> to protect the fibers or the fiber holding tubes. The cover <NUM>, in the depicted example, is snap fit to the base <NUM> and is designed to generally cover the gap <NUM> provided on the base <NUM>.

Another strength member fixation structure <NUM> similar in shape and function to the fixation structure <NUM> is illustrated in <FIG>. The version <NUM> illustrated in <FIG> does not include a cover for the base portion <NUM> of the fixation structure <NUM>.

Now referring to <FIG>, it should be noted that although the above-described fixation structures <NUM>/<NUM> include cable brackets <NUM>/<NUM> that are fixedly mounted to the base portions <NUM>/<NUM> at an angle, in certain other embodiments, the cable brackets and the bases may define a free-hinging configuration. In such an embodiment of a fixation structure <NUM>, the base <NUM> and the cable bracket <NUM> cooperatively define a hinge structure <NUM> rather than fixed angled mounting for allowing rotation to the cable bracket <NUM> along an axis that is parallel to the longitudinal axis L defined by the base <NUM>. In certain embodiments, the movement can cover about a <NUM>-degree path, extending from -<NUM> degrees below a horizontal plane to +<NUM> degrees above a horizontal plane going through the longitudinal axis of the base <NUM>.

As shown, the cable bracket <NUM> may include a covered tube or jacket holding portion <NUM> adjacent the turn portion <NUM>. The jacket holding portion <NUM> may define a slit <NUM> for insertion of fibers extending out of the cable jacket once the jacket has been stripped and is designed to protect the fibers therein during pivotal movement of the cable bracket <NUM>.

Another similar free-hinging design is illustrated for the fixation structure <NUM> in <FIG>. In the cable bracket <NUM> of the fixation structure <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>, a curved wall <NUM> may be used to protect the fibers extending from the cable bracket <NUM> to the base <NUM> during pivotal movement of the bracket <NUM> with respect to the base <NUM>.

In the free-hinging versions of the fixations structures <NUM>/<NUM> illustrated in <FIG>, the base <NUM>/<NUM> may define integrally formed tube holders adjacent the front end rather than a receiver for housing separately inserted individual tube holders.

Even though the earlier versions of the strength member fixation structure <NUM>/<NUM> shown in <FIG> and described above provide a fixed angle for the cable bracket <NUM>/<NUM> relative to the base <NUM>/<NUM>, the bracket <NUM>/<NUM> is still able to be removed from the base <NUM>/<NUM> and selectively mounted in one of two desired orientations. It should be noted that in certain embodiments, the cable bracket may simply be integrally formed with the base to provide a permanently angled mount. Such an example of a fixation structure <NUM> is shown in <FIG>. It should be noted that the fixation structure <NUM> may be provided in two versions, a downwardly angled version and an upwardly angled version, depending on the needed routing.

Another version of a fixed integrally formed strength member fixation structure <NUM> is shown in <FIG>. In the version shown in <FIG>, the cable bracket portion <NUM> may be angled with respect to the base <NUM> but only along the same horizontal plane. This configuration still provides a smooth transition for cables coming from a transverse direction toward a parallel direction relative to the sides of the distribution elements <NUM>. The fixation structure <NUM> shown in <FIG> essentially provides the same routing as when the free-hinging cable brackets <NUM>/<NUM> are horizontally aligned with the bases <NUM>/<NUM> in the versions shown in <FIG>. However, in this version, the routing is provided in a permanently fixed manner. Again, in the version of the fixation structure <NUM> shown in <FIG>, the cable bracket <NUM> may define a curved protection wall <NUM> at the turn portion <NUM> for protection and bend control of fibers or fiber holding tubes.

<FIG> illustrate another version of a strength member fixation structure <NUM> that may be used with the optical fiber distribution elements <NUM> of the present disclosure.

The version of the strength member fixation structure <NUM> shown in <FIG> is a universal type fixation structure that can be used to accommodate a variety of cable types, sizes, and diameters. The fixation structure <NUM> can also be used to fix different numbers of cables as shown.

The strength member fixation structure <NUM> is designed to provide strength member and jacket fixation without the use of friction based grip inserts or cable-ties.

In the depicted embodiment, the fixation structure <NUM> defines a base <NUM>. The base <NUM> is generally a U-shaped structure forming a longitudinal cable channel <NUM> for receiving one or more cables. The walls <NUM> of the U-shaped structure and the bottom <NUM> of the cable channel <NUM> can form clamping surfaces as will be discussed.

Adjacent the front end <NUM> of the base <NUM> is provided a strength member clamp structure <NUM> that is formed from a downwardly biased metal member <NUM>. The metal member <NUM> defines hook portions <NUM> for clamping the strength members against a top surface <NUM> of the base <NUM> under the bias of the spring-based metal member <NUM>.

Along the sidewalls <NUM> of the base are provided a series of pivot pins <NUM> in a stepped configuration as shown. Spaced from the pivot pins <NUM>, toward the front end <NUM> of the base <NUM> are a series of latch pins <NUM> provided in a matching stepped configuration similar to the pivot pins <NUM>.

A metallic clamp <NUM> is configured to pivot about one of the pivot pins <NUM> and latch into a corresponding latch pin <NUM> at the front <NUM> of the base <NUM> to capture and fix the outer jacket of a given cable.

As shown in <FIG>, the metallic clamp <NUM> may include a biased spring member <NUM> for pushing on a cable. <FIG> illustrates a version of the metallic clamp <NUM> with a biased spring member <NUM> that has a snap-on insert <NUM> for providing additional grip features <NUM>. Such grip features <NUM>, instead of being provided with a separate insert, can be integrated into the spring member <NUM> itself.

The pivotable metallic clamp <NUM> is positioned on the base <NUM> depending upon the number of cables or the cable sizes that are being fixed. Once an appropriate pivot pin <NUM> is selected based on the number of cables or cable size, the clamp <NUM> is pivoted down with a latch <NUM> of the metallic clamp <NUM> latching to a corresponding latch pin <NUM> at the front <NUM> of the base <NUM>.

The fixation structure <NUM> is shown in various configurations in clamping various numbers and sizes of cables in <FIG>. As shown, even though the bottom <NUM> of the cable channel <NUM> may form a clamping surface in clamping smaller diameter cables, the vertical sidewalls <NUM> defining the cable channel <NUM> may also have chamfered edges <NUM> that are used to clamp either larger cables or cables provided in a side-by-side arrangement, as shown in <FIG>.

A fixation structure such as the structure <NUM> shown in <FIG> can be provided with mounting features for mounting to a side of an optical distribution element <NUM> similar to the versions discussed above.

Even though the above described strength member fixation structures have been illustrated and discussed herein as being mounted to and used with the optical fiber distribution elements <NUM> of the present disclosure, it should be noted that the fixation structures can be utilized in other telecommunications panels and fixtures. The specifically depicted devices are only exemplary and are used to convey the concepts provided by the strength member fixation structures.

Referring now to <FIG>, the fan-out fixation assemblies <NUM> that can be used in certain locations throughout the frame assemblies <NUM>/<NUM> is shown in closer detail.

The fan-out fixation assembly <NUM> includes a fixation bracket <NUM> that is configured to be mounted to portions of the frame assemblies <NUM>/<NUM> at desired locations and fan-out holders <NUM> that are configured to be removably attached to the fixation bracket <NUM>.

As shown, the fixation bracket <NUM>, according to one embodiment, defines a generally U-shaped configuration with a rear wall <NUM> and a pair of sidewalls <NUM> extending from the rear wall <NUM>. The rear wall <NUM> defines fastener openings <NUM> for mounting to a wall defined by one of the telecommunications frame assemblies <NUM>/<NUM>. The sidewalls <NUM> define upper and lower latching slots <NUM>, <NUM> for receiving the fan-out holders <NUM> with a snap-fit interlock as will be described in further detail.

In the example embodiment shown, the sidewalls <NUM> extending from the rear wall <NUM> of the bracket <NUM> are spaced apart and provide room for accommodation of the fan-out holders <NUM> that are coupled to the bracket <NUM>. In this manner, the fan-out holders <NUM> can be horizontally stacked on each sidewall <NUM>, where the fan-outs are positioned toward the center of the bracket <NUM>.

The upper and lower slots <NUM>, <NUM> provided on each sidewall <NUM> may be large enough to accommodate the latching structures of a plurality of fan-out holders <NUM> that are stacked along the sidewall <NUM>. And, as shown, a support divider <NUM> may split a first upper slot 4012a from a second upper slot 4012b on each sidewall <NUM>. Similarly, a support divider <NUM> may split a first lower slot 4014a from a second lower slot 4014b on each sidewall <NUM>. Each sidewall <NUM> may also define a lateral lip <NUM> at top and bottom portions thereof that can abut a wall defined by the frame assemblies <NUM>/<NUM> and provide extra support against bending.

Referring now specifically to the fan-out holders <NUM>, each fan-out holder <NUM> defines a latch side <NUM> and a fan-out holding side <NUM>. The fan-out holding side <NUM> defines a generally curved pocket <NUM> for nesting of the fan-out thereagainst. The pocket <NUM> defines surface texturing <NUM>, in the form of a pin pattern according to the depicted example, that helps with gripping the jacket of a fan-out. The surface texturing <NUM> can help provide protection against jacket slip during axial pull or cable torsion. It should be noted that the type of surface texturing depicted in the given embodiments are only exemplary and other types of surface texturing can be provided.

The fan-out holding side <NUM> also defines openings <NUM> for receiving cable-ties <NUM> for securing the fan-outs against the fan-out holders <NUM>. Once the fan-outs are positioned within the pockets <NUM>, the cable-ties <NUM> can be looped through the openings <NUM> and around the fan-out jackets and tightened to secure the fan-outs to the holders <NUM>. An example embodiment illustrating the use of the cable-ties <NUM> is shown in <FIG>.

The latch side <NUM> of the fan-out holder <NUM> defines a pair of hook-like members <NUM>, each having a horizontal portion <NUM> and a vertical portion <NUM>. The vertical portion <NUM> is spaced apart from an abutment surface <NUM> of the latch side <NUM> such that the vertical portion <NUM> forms a pocket <NUM> for capturing the sidewall <NUM> between the vertical portion <NUM> and the abutment surface <NUM>. As shown, the upper hook-like member <NUM> is for placement over an upper top edge <NUM> defined by each sidewall <NUM> and the lower hook-like member <NUM> is spaced apart and positioned for placement over a lower top edge <NUM> defined on each sidewall <NUM>, where the upper top edge <NUM> defines the bottom end of each upper slot <NUM> on the sidewalls <NUM> and the lower top edge <NUM> defines the bottom end of each lower slot <NUM> on the sidewalls <NUM>.

Positioned between the spaced-apart hook-like members <NUM> is a flexible latch <NUM>. The flexible latch <NUM> extends past the abutment surface <NUM> of the latch side <NUM> of the fan-out holder <NUM> and is configured to be flexed back against a bias when being mounted to the sidewall <NUM>.

As shown, when each fan-out holder <NUM> is being placed on a sidewall <NUM>, the upper and the lower hook-like members <NUM> are brought adjacent a sidewall <NUM>. The upper hook-like member <NUM> is aligned with and passed through the upper slot <NUM> and the lower hook-like member <NUM> is aligned with and passed through the lower slot <NUM>. And, then, the fan-out holder <NUM> is slid vertically downward with the flexible latch <NUM>, having been flexed back and riding along the inner side of the sidewall <NUM>. When the flexible latch <NUM> arrives at the lower slot <NUM>, the latch <NUM> snaps laterally to be captured against a lower bottom edge <NUM> defined by the sidewall <NUM>, where the lower bottom edge <NUM> defines the top end of each lower slot <NUM> on the sidewalls <NUM>.

The cooperation of the flexible latch <NUM> and the hook-like members <NUM> keep the fan-out holders <NUM> coupled to the sidewalls <NUM>. As noted above, a plurality of fan-out holders <NUM> can be placed on each sidewall <NUM> in a horizontally stacked configuration as shown in <FIG>. In the depicted embodiment, the fan-out holding sides <NUM> of the fan-out holders <NUM> are positioned toward the center of the bracket <NUM>.

If a fan-out or fan-out holder needs to be removed from the bracket <NUM>, the latch <NUM> can be flexed back laterally until the latch <NUM> clears the lower bottom edge <NUM> of the sidewall <NUM>. Once the latch <NUM> clears the lower bottom edge <NUM>, the fan-out holder <NUM> can be slidably lifted vertically to free the upper and lower hook-like members <NUM> from the sidewall <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates an alternative embodiment of a fan-out holder <NUM> that can be used with a bracket <NUM> such as that shown in <FIG> and <FIG>. The fan-out holder <NUM> is similar in form and function to the version illustrated in <FIG> and described above. In the version shown in <FIG>, a single upper hook-like portion <NUM> is provided while the bottom portion of the fan-out holder <NUM> defines an elastically flexible latch <NUM>. The flexible latch <NUM> is general biased upwardly and defines a tab <NUM> for latching the fan-out holder <NUM> against a bracket. When the fan-out holder <NUM> is being mounted on a bracket such as the bracket <NUM> shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the hook-like portion <NUM> is initially slid over a top edge of a sidewall <NUM> and moved vertically downwardly until the tab <NUM> clears a bottom edge <NUM> of a sidewall <NUM> and snaps back upwardly to capture the bottom edge <NUM> of the sidewall <NUM> between the tab <NUM> and the abutment surface <NUM> defined by the fan-out holder <NUM>.

In the version of the fan-out holder <NUM> shown in <FIG>, if there is any pull on the fan-out, the pulling force is directly transferred on the flexible latch <NUM>. The version of the fan-out holder <NUM> shown in <FIG> provides the advantage of transferring any pulling forces on the fan-out to the fixed portions of the fan-out holder <NUM> such as the upper and lower hook-like members <NUM>, while the flexible latch <NUM> is only used for latching the fan-out holder <NUM> and does not experience any of the applied forces.

Another version of a fan-out holder <NUM> is illustrated in <FIG>. The version of the fan-out holder <NUM> is similar in form and function to the version <NUM> illustrated in <FIG> except that fixed stop surfaces <NUM> are provided on both sides of the flexible latch <NUM>. This version provides the advantage of the fixed stop surfaces <NUM> being able to absorb any axial pulling forces on the fan-out holder <NUM> rather than transferring the entire force to a flexible portion of the fan-out holder <NUM> such as the elastic latch <NUM>.

Both of the versions <NUM>, <NUM> shown in <FIG> are removed from a bracket <NUM> by flexing down the elastic latch until the tab clears a bottom edge <NUM> of a sidewall <NUM>.

Now referring to <FIG>, an alternative embodiment of a fan-out fixation assembly <NUM> is illustrated. The fan-out fixation assembly <NUM> is similar in form and function to the assembly <NUM> shown in <FIG> except for a few differences.

In the version of the fan-out fixation assembly <NUM> shown in <FIG>, the bracket <NUM> is defined by a generally L-shaped structure, each defining a rear wall <NUM> and a sidewall <NUM> extending therefrom.

The rear wall <NUM> defines fastener openings <NUM> for mounting to a wall <NUM> defined by the telecommunications frame assemblies <NUM>/<NUM>. The sidewall <NUM> defines a plurality of latching slots <NUM> that are discretely spaced apart extending from the front toward the rear of the sidewall <NUM>.

The generally L-shaped bracket <NUM> is designed such that two of the brackets <NUM> can be used in adjacent relationship together in an opposing configuration as shown in <FIG>. The rear walls <NUM> are positioned in opposing directions while the sidewalls <NUM> are positioned adjacent together, leaving enough room therebetween for the accommodation of the fan-out holders <NUM>, as will be discussed below.

In the use of the fan-out fixation assembly <NUM> shown in <FIG>, the brackets <NUM> and the fan-out holders <NUM> are designed such that the fan-outs are generally positioned away from the sidewalls <NUM>, rather than toward the center of the bracket <NUM> as in the embodiment of <FIG>.

Referring specifically to the fan-out holder <NUM> in <FIG> that is used with the bracket <NUM>, each fan-out holder <NUM> again defines a latch side <NUM> and a fan-out holding side <NUM>. The fan-out holding side <NUM> defines a generally curved pocket <NUM> for nesting of the fan-out thereagainst. The pocket <NUM> defines surface texturing <NUM>, in the form of ribs according to the depicted example, that helps with gripping the jacket of a fan-out. As noted above, the surface texturing <NUM> can help provide protection against jacket slip during axial pull or cable torsion. And, as also noted above, the type of surface texturing depicted in the given embodiments are only exemplary and other types of surface texturing can be provided.

Similar to the fan-out holders <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> depicted in <FIG>, the fan-out holding side <NUM> also defines openings <NUM> for receiving cable-ties <NUM> for securing the fan-outs against the fan-out holders <NUM>. Once the fan-outs are positioned within the pockets <NUM>, the cable-ties <NUM> can be looped through the openings <NUM> and around the fan-out jackets and tightened to secure the fan-outs to the holders <NUM>.

The latch side <NUM> of the fan-out holder <NUM> in <FIG> defines a central slot <NUM>. A flexible latch <NUM> extends partially into the slot <NUM>. The fan-out holder <NUM> is designed such that the slot <NUM> receives the entire sidewall <NUM> of the bracket <NUM> as the fan-out holder <NUM> is slid horizontally across the bracket <NUM>. The flexible latch <NUM> defines a tab <NUM> with a tapered face <NUM> and a flat retention face <NUM>. The tapered face <NUM> is configured for contacting portions of the sidewall <NUM> of the bracket <NUM> for flexing of the latch <NUM> while allowing sliding of the fan-out holder <NUM> to a desired position on the sidewall <NUM>. Once the desired position is reached, the latch <NUM> snaps back under a bias into one of the latching slots <NUM> with the flat retention face <NUM> holding the fan-out holder <NUM> against the aperture defining the latching slot <NUM>.

A fully mounted fan-out holder <NUM> is shown in <FIG> with the cable-ties <NUM> used to fix the fan-out to the holder <NUM>.

Another alternative embodiment of a fan-out fixation assembly <NUM> is illustrated in <FIG>. In the version illustrated in <FIG>, the fan-out holder <NUM> is provided as a double fan-out holder with fan-out holding features on opposite sides of the holder <NUM> and a central slot <NUM> for slidably receiving a sidewall <NUM> of a bracket <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. It should be noted that although the double fan-out holder <NUM> of <FIG> has been depicted without a latch structure, in certain embodiments, a latch structure may be incorporated into the holder <NUM> similar to that shown in the version <NUM> shown in <FIG>, if a respective slotted bracket is utilized.

Another alternative embodiment of a fan-out holder <NUM> is illustrated in <FIG>. In the version shown in <FIG>, the fan-out holder <NUM> and a cable-tie <NUM> are integrated together. As shown, the fan-out holder <NUM> may define upper and lower notches <NUM> for mounting against opposing edges of a bracket or within vertically spaced-apart latching slots. The body <NUM> of the fan-out holder <NUM> may be flexible enough to bend portions of the holder <NUM> when placing on a bracket. As shown, an integrated cable-tie <NUM> may be positioned to wrap-around a fan-out that has been placed within the pocket <NUM> defined at the fan-out holding side <NUM> and inserted through a retaining structure <NUM> at the opposing side. Once the cable-tie <NUM> has been wrapped around the fan-out and inserted through the retaining structure <NUM>, the cable-tie <NUM> may be cut to remove any excess length.

Even though the above described fan-out fixation assemblies and the associated brackets and holders have been illustrated and discussed herein as being used within the telecommunications frame assemblies <NUM>/<NUM> of the present disclosure, it should be noted that these elements can be utilized in any telecommunications fixture, such as a frame, a panel, or a rack, where cable fan-outs are utilized, as long as such fixtures are configured to receive the described brackets.

Referring now to <FIG>, a backplate <NUM> for use with one of the above-described frame assemblies such as the cross-connect frame assembly <NUM> or the inter-connect frame assembly <NUM> is illustrated. Generally, the backplate <NUM> is configured to be mounted to and form a backwall <NUM> of either of the right or left frame <NUM>, <NUM> of the cross-connect frame assembly <NUM> or form a backwall <NUM> of the frame <NUM> of the frame assembly that is described above. <FIG> illustrates the backplate <NUM> mounted to and forming the backwall <NUM> of the left frame <NUM> of one of the cross-connect frame assemblies <NUM> discussed above.

The backplate <NUM>, once mounted to any of the frames <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, allows the fiber optic distribution elements <NUM> to be mounted in a vertically stacked arrangement to the frames <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM>. <FIG> illustrate one of the fiber optic distribution elements <NUM> mounted on the backplate <NUM>. <FIG> illustrate in isolation one of the fiber optic distribution elements <NUM> that can be mounted using the backplate <NUM>.

As will be discussed in further detail below, the backplate <NUM> also defines inventive features that allow the mounting of not only the fiber optic distribution elements such as those shown in <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG> but also standard type telecommunications devices that occupy a <NUM>-inch wide footprint on telecommunications racks. In this manner, using the inventive backplate <NUM> of the present disclosure, the frames <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> can be converted to or provided as universal type rack frames that can accommodate a wide range of different telecommunications devices.

Still referring to <FIG>, the backplate defines the backwall <NUM> and a flange <NUM> that extends forwardly from the backwall <NUM>, the flange <NUM> formed around the entire perimeter of the backplate <NUM>. In the depicted example, the backwall <NUM> includes weight-saving features <NUM> such as openings forming a honeycomb pattern. In the depicted example, the openings <NUM> cover a majority of the surface area defined by the backwall <NUM>.

It should be noted that openings <NUM> in the form of a honeycomb pattern is simply one example embodiment of a weight-saving measure and other embodiments can include other weight-saving measures and the density of the openings <NUM> can vary.

The flange <NUM> formed around the perimeter of the backplate <NUM> defines a front flange wall <NUM> that is parallel to the backwall <NUM> and a side flange wall <NUM> that connects the front flange wall <NUM> to the backwall <NUM>. The side flange wall <NUM> can be seen in <FIG>.

The backplate <NUM> is configured to be mounted to the frames <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM> via fastener openings <NUM> that are provided on the side flange wall <NUM>. As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, indicia <NUM> may be provided on parts of the backplate <NUM>, such as arrows that have been cut out of the backwall <NUM> to indicate the locations of the fastener openings <NUM> to a user. In the depicted example, an opening <NUM> is provided on each of the right side and the left side of the backplate <NUM> adjacent the upper portion, the center portion, and the lower portion of the backplate <NUM>. It should be noted that the fastener openings <NUM> may be provided at different locations as long as the frames to which the backplate <NUM> is mounted to, such as frames <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>, are configured in a matching manner.

The front flange wall <NUM> defines a plurality of openings <NUM> extending in vertically arranged pairs. The openings <NUM> are configured to receive, with a snap-fit interlock, mounting structures known in the telecommunications industry as cage nuts <NUM>. The cage nuts <NUM> are provided with a threaded opening <NUM> for receiving threaded fasteners when mounting a telecommunications device thereto and essentially can transform an opening on a frame wall into a threaded opening for doing so. An example cage nut <NUM> is shown in isolation in <FIG>.

The front flange wall <NUM> and the openings <NUM> defined thereon on the two sides of the backplate <NUM> are spaced apart to accommodate a standard type telecommunications device that has a <NUM>-inch wide footprint.

Still referring to <FIG>, as noted above, the backplate <NUM> is configured to receive not only standard type telecommunications devices having a <NUM>-inch wide footprint using cage nuts <NUM> but also the fiber optic distribution elements <NUM> discussed herein. The backplate <NUM> defines a series of vertically stacked openings <NUM> on the backwall <NUM>. Adjacent the openings <NUM> on the backwall <NUM>, openings <NUM> are also provided at the corner defined by the backwall <NUM> and the side flange wall <NUM>. The openings <NUM> at the corner are configured to be aligned with the openings <NUM> on the backwall <NUM> of the backplate <NUM>.

It should be noted that the openings <NUM> and <NUM> form part of a quick-connect mounting system that is used for mounting the fiber optic distribution elements <NUM> to frames such as frame <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> as discussed in further detail in PCT Publication No. <CIT>.

As discussed in detail in <CIT>, the mounting system generally includes the right and left mounting brackets <NUM>. An example mounting bracket <NUM> is shown in isolation in <FIG>. Each of the mounting brackets <NUM> may be designed for mounting two stacked distribution elements <NUM>. Accordingly, each of the right and left mounting brackets <NUM>, in the depicted embodiment, includes two forwardly extending fingers <NUM> that define latch openings <NUM> adjacent the fronts <NUM> thereof. And, each of the right and left mounting brackets <NUM> defines upper and lower mounting tabs <NUM> at the rear <NUM> of the bracket <NUM>. The mounting tabs <NUM> at the rear <NUM> of the mounting brackets <NUM> are designed to slidably mount the brackets <NUM> to the opening pairs <NUM>, <NUM> provided at the backwall <NUM> and at the corner. The mounting tabs <NUM> are inserted into the openings <NUM>, <NUM> and slid along a sideway or lateral direction. Once the brackets <NUM> have been secured on the backplate <NUM>, the distribution elements <NUM> can be slidably placed onto and locked with respect to the fingers <NUM>, as described in further in <CIT>. The latch openings <NUM> provided on the fingers <NUM> of the brackets <NUM> are used to lock the elements <NUM> in place. The mounting brackets <NUM> are shown as mounted to the backplate <NUM> in <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>.

Thus, the backplate <NUM> is configured such that it allows the mounting of not only standard type telecommunications devices that occupy a <NUM>-inch wide footprint but also can be used to form a part of the specific quick-connect mounting system that is used for mounting fiber optic distribution elements such as those shown in <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG> (and also described in <CIT>; <CIT>; and <CIT>) to a telecommunications frame.

Now referring specifically to <FIG>, another inventive feature that is provided by the backplate <NUM> is shown. The inventive feature relates to resisting pull forces on cables that have been mounted to the sides of the distribution elements <NUM> via strength member fixation structures such as structures <NUM>, <NUM> as shown in <FIG> of the present application.

The backplate <NUM> is designed such that some room or spacing <NUM> is provided between the element <NUM> and an inner edge <NUM> defined by the front flange wall <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the spacing <NUM> can accommodate a portion <NUM> of the base <NUM>/<NUM> of the strength member fixation structure <NUM>, <NUM> such that the portion <NUM> of the base <NUM>/<NUM> abuts against the inner edge <NUM> when the element <NUM> has been mounted to the backplate <NUM>. In this manner, the inner edge <NUM> provides a rigid support for resisting flexing of the base <NUM>/<NUM> away from the distribution element <NUM> when lateral (or upward angled or downward angled) pulling forces are applied to the cables that have been fixed to the elements <NUM> via fixation structures such as structures <NUM>/<NUM>. <FIG> illustrate one of the mounted elements <NUM> from a front view. <FIG> illustrate how the inner edge <NUM> of the front flange wall <NUM> of the backplate <NUM> can resist the transverse pulling forces applied to an element <NUM> by abutting and supporting the portion <NUM> of the base <NUM>/<NUM> of the strength member fixation structure <NUM>/<NUM>.

Claim 1:
A telecommunications frame (<NUM>/<NUM>) comprising:
a first set of mounting features (<NUM>) for allowing a first type of telecommunications device to be mounted to the frame (<NUM>/<NUM>); and
a second set of mounting features (<NUM>, <NUM>) for allowing a second type of telecommunications device (<NUM>) to be mounted to the frame (<NUM>/<NUM>), the second type of telecommunications device (<NUM>) defining a different width from a right side to a left side than the first type of telecommunications device, wherein the first set of mounting features (<NUM>) and the second set of mounting features (<NUM>, <NUM>) are provided on a single integral structure (<NUM>) defining a backwall (<NUM>) of the telecommunications frame (<NUM>/<NUM>), wherein the first set of mounting features (<NUM>) are provided on both the right side and the left side of the structure (<NUM>) and wherein the second set of mounting features (<NUM>, <NUM>) are provided on both the right side and the left side of the structure (<NUM>), wherein the single integral structure (<NUM>) defines a flange (<NUM>) positioned forwardly from the backwall (<NUM>) and formed around the perimeter of the backwall (<NUM>), the flange (<NUM>) defining an abutment edge (<NUM>) for limiting the amount of lateral movement of parts of the telecommunications devices (<NUM>) mounted to the frame (<NUM>/<NUM>) caused by lateral forces applied to the telecommunications devices (<NUM>), wherein the first set of mounting features (<NUM>) is provided in a vertically stacked arrangement along the flange (<NUM>) on both the right side and the left side of the structure (<NUM>) and wherein the second set of mounting features (<NUM>, <NUM>) is provided in a vertically stacked arrangement on both the right and left sides of the structure (<NUM>) set back from the flange (<NUM>).