Patent Description:
Several hundred million multiple dwelling units (MDUs) exist globally, which are inhabited by about one third of the world's population. Due to the large concentration of tenants in one MDU, Fiber-to-the-X ("FTTX") deployments to these structures are more cost effective to service providers than deployments to single-family homes. Connecting existing MDUs to the FTTX network can often be difficult. Challenges can include gaining building access, limited distribution space in riser closets, and space for cable routing and management. Specifically, FTTX deployments within existing structures make it difficult to route cables within the walls or floors, or above the ceiling from a central closet or stairwell, to each living unit.

Conventionally, a service provider installs an enclosure (also known as a fiber distribution terminal (FDT)) on each floor, or every few floors, of an MDU. The FDT connects the building riser cable to the horizontal drop cables which run to each living unit on a floor. Drop cables are spliced or otherwise connected to the riser cable in the FDT only as service is requested from a tenant in a living unit. These service installations require multiple reentries to the enclosure, putting at risk the security and disruption of service to other tenants on the floor. This process also increases the service provider's capital and operating costs, as this type of connection requires the use of an expensive fusion splice machine and highly skilled labor. Routing and splicing individual drop cables can take an excessive amount of time, delaying the number of subscribers a technician can activate in one day, reducing revenues for the service provider. Alternatively, service providers install home run cabling the full extended length from each living unit in an MDU directly to a fiber distribution hub (FDH) in the building vault, therefore encompassing both the horizontal and riser with a single extended drop cable. This approach creates several challenges, including the necessity of first installing a pathway to manage, protect and hide each of the multiple drop cables. This pathway often includes very large (e.g., <NUM> inch to <NUM> inch to <NUM> inch) pre-fabricated crown molding made of wood, composite, or plastic. Many of these pathways, over time, become congested and disorganized, increasing the risk of service disruption due to fiber bends and excessive reentry.

In addition, further physical and aesthetic challenges exist in providing the final drop to and from each individual living unit. Also, because of their size, many conventional indoor optical network terminals (ONTs) are often placed in the closets of living units out of normal view. This type of arrangement requires that a service provider run new cabling (such as coaxial cables, cat <NUM> cables, and others) from the closet to the existing wiring in the living unit to activate the ONT to provide service. As newer ONTs have become smaller in physical size, they can be placed outside of closets and into main living areas.

<CIT> relates to a mounting or retaining means for electric wiring.

<CIT> relates to a wire harness protector that has a closed slot extending to a central aperture for inserting wires to be maintained in the aperture forming a wire harness assembly. JPH10313519A relates to a protector for protecting a wire bundle routed in a vehicle. The protector comprises a bottom floor and two walls defining a channel into which the bundle can be accommodated. <CIT> relates to a fiber optic equipment. It discloses a continuous fiber channel in which the fiber is accommodated and that comprises a longitudinal opening for the insertion/extraction of the fiber. The device is equipped with two flanges at the ends to provide an attachment surface for attaching the device to a support structure.

The invention relates to a cable routing system with the features of claim <NUM>. For example a system for providing a final drop in a living unit in a building comprises a point-of-entry unit disposed within the living unit at a location corresponding to an access position of horizontal cabling disposed in a hallway of the building that provides a first anchor point. The system also includes an adhesive-backed duct, having one or more communication lines disposed therein, mountable to a wall within the living unit. The system also includes a second anchor point, not covered by claims, disposed within the living unit to receive a first communication line via the duct.

In one aspect, not covered by claims, the point-of-entry unit comprises a low profile access base unit disposed within the living unit at a location corresponding to an access position of horizontal cabling disposed in a hallway of the building.

In another aspect, not coveed by claims, the second anchor point includes a wall receptacle to receive a first line via the duct.

According to the invention, the duct comprises a conduit portion having a bore formed along a longitudinal axis of the duct to hold at least a first drop fiber and a flange structure, wherein adhesive backing is disposed on a rear surface of the flange structure.

In another aspect, not covered by claims, at least the first drop fiber is terminated via an optical connector.

In another aspect, not covered by claims, the base unit includes a wall mounting portion and a low profile cover, the cover being mountable over or onto at least a portion of the duct, the wall mounting portion including a main port to fit over a hole formed in the first wall, the structure having a fiber slack storage area disposed between the wall mounting portion and the cover.

In another aspect, not covered by claims, the conduit is formed centrally with respect to a lateral plane of the flange structure.

In another aspect, not covered by claims, the duct further includes a support duct disposed on the adhesive backing, the support duct including a strength member channel disposed centrally and extending lengthwise therethrough.

In another aspect, not covered by claims, the strength member channel includes at least one of an aramid yarn, a metallic wire, a fiberglass member, and Kevlar material.

In another aspect, the duct is formed from a clear polymeric material.

In another aspect, not covered by claims, the duct comprises a plurality of conduit portions, with each conduit portion having a bore formed along a longitudinal axis of the duct, and wherein each conduit portion houses at least one separate drop fiber.

In another aspect, not covered by claims, the duct also carries an electrical wire.

In another aspect, not covered by claims, the wall receptacle includes at least one connector terminated with the first drop fiber and a coupling that couples the terminated first drop fiber to a jumper cable. Further, the wall receptacle includes a first cover portion and a second cover portion that are openable and closable independent of each other.

In another aspect, not covered by claims, the adhesive backing comprises a pressure sensitive adhesive.

In another aspect, not covered by claims, the duct includes multiple conduits each having a bore formed along a longitudinal axis of the duct, wherein a first conduit is configured to hold a first drop fiber and a second conduit is configured to hold a second drop fiber.

In another aspect, not covered by claims, the duct has a lateral dimension from about <NUM> (<NUM> inches) to about <NUM> (<NUM> inch), and a height of less than about <NUM> (<NUM> inch) to about <NUM> (<NUM> inches).

In another aspect, not covered by claims, an inner diameter of the bore is about <NUM>% or less larger than an outer diameter of the drop fiber disposed therein.

In another aspect, not covered by claims, the conduit portion further includes a strength member disposed therein.

In another aspect, not covered by claims, the duct comprises a conduit portion having a bore formed longitudinally therein, the conduit portion attached to a flange structure via a thin web of material having a thickness such that upon modest application of a peeling force, a segment of the conduit portion can be detached or peeled away from the flange structure. In another aspect, the thin web of material has a thickness of from about <NUM>% to about <NUM>% of the thickness of the flange structure.

In another aspect, not covered by claims, the conduit portion is formed in the same bending plane as the flange structure.

In another aspect, not covered by claims, the conduit portion is attached to a central portion of flange structure.

In another aspect, not covered by claims, the conduit portion comprises dual conduit portions having the flange structure disposed in between, each of the conduit portions attached to the flange structure via a thin web of material, wherein the conduit portions are formed in the same bending plane as the flange structure.

According to the invention, the duct comprises a conduit portion having a bore formed along a longitudinal axis of the duct to hold at least the first drop fiber, the conduit portion having a longitudinal slot formed therein to provide for insertion and removal of the first drop fiber.

According to the invention, the duct also includes a flange structure having a first flange extending along the longitudinal axis of the duct and extending laterally outward from the conduit portion in a first direction and a second flange extending along the longitudinal axis of the duct and extending laterally outward from the conduit portion in a second direction.

In another aspect, not covered by claims, the duct also includes a first recess portion disposed between the conduit portion and the first flange and a second recess portion disposed between the conduit portion and the second flange.

In another aspect, not covered by claims, a system for providing a final drop to a living unit in a building comprises a point-of-entry unit disposed within the living unit at a location corresponding to an access position of horizontal cabling disposed in a hallway of the building that provides a first anchor point. The system also includes an optically clear or translucent adhesive tape, having a drop fiber with a clear buffer coating, mountable to a wall within the living unit, wherein the drop fiber is disposed between an adhesive portion of the optically clear or translucent adhesive tape and the wall. The system also includes second anchor point disposed within the living unit to receive the drop fiber via the optically clear adhesive tape.

For example, a method, not covered by claims, of providing a final drop in a living unit in a building comprises establishing a service line point of entry in the living unit, the service line communicating with a telecommunications service provider. The method also includes providing an adhesive-backed duct, pre-populated with one or more drop lines and mountable to a wall within the living unit, wherein a first drop line is coupled to the service line. The method also includes mounting the adhesive-backed duct to the living unit wall and coupling the first drop line to an anchor point disposed in the living unit at a distance from the point of entry.

In another aspect, not covered by claims, the first drop line comprises an optical fiber.

In another aspect, not covered by claims, the adhesive-backed duct spans the entire distance between the service line point of entry and the wall receptacle.

In another aspect, not covered by claims, the method further comprises providing a jumper to connect the wall receptacle to an optical network terminal (ONT).

In another aspect, not covered by claims, the building is an MDU. In another aspect, the anchor point comprises a wall receptacle.

In another aspect, not covered by claims, establishing a service line point of entry in the living unit comprises mounting a low profile access base unit at a location in the living unit corresponding to an access position of horizontal cabling disposed in a hallway of the building.

The above summary of the present invention is not intended to describe each illustrated embodiment or every implementation of the present invention. The figures and the detailed description that follows more particularly exemplify these embodiments.

The present invention will be further described with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:.

While the invention is amenable to various modifications and alternative forms, specifics thereof have been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail.

On the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the invention as defined by the appended aspects.

In the following Detailed Description, directional terminology, such as "top," "bottom," "front," "back," "leading," "forward," "trailing," etc., is used with reference to the orientation of the Figure(s) being described. Because components of embodiments of the present invention can be positioned in a number of different orientations, the directional terminology is used for purposes of illustration and is in no way limiting. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and structural or logical changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. The following detailed description, therefore, is not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present invention is defined by the appended aspects.

The present invention is directed to a cable routing system.

<FIG>, not covered by claims, shows a schematic view of a system <NUM> for providing a final drop that is installed in a living unit <NUM> of an exemplary building, such as MDU <NUM> (see <FIG>). Please note that while system <NUM> is preferably utilized in a building such as an MDU, it may also be utilized in a single family home or similar residence, as would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art given the present description.

The system <NUM> includes a conduit or duct <NUM> which contains one or more communications lines (such as drop fibers or lines, not shown in <FIG>) for connection with the horizontal cabling/service line(s) of the building, such as an MDU. The communications lines preferably comprise one or two optical fibers, although an electrical wire, coaxial/micro-coaxial cable, or a combination of these, may be used for data, video, and/or telephone signal transmission. In one aspect, a communications line can comprise a discrete (loose) drop fiber, such as <NUM> buffered fiber, <NUM> buffered fiber, <NUM> fiber, or other standard size communications fiber. The optical fiber can be single mode or multi-mode. Example multi-mode fibers can have a <NUM> core size, a <NUM> core size, an <NUM> core size, or a different standard core size. In another alternative aspect, the drop fiber can comprise a conventional plastic optical fiber. The final drop fiber(s) can be field terminated with an optical fiber connector, such as described in <CIT>. Other optical fiber connectors, such as SC-APC, SC-UPC, or LC, can be utilized.

In addition, although the exemplary aspects described herein are often specific to accessing optical fiber lines, it would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art given the present description that the system <NUM> can be configured to accommodate an electrical wire drop and/or a hybrid combination drop as well. For example, the electrical wire drop can comprise conventional Cat5/Cat <NUM> wiring or conventional coax wiring, such as RG6 shielded and/or unshielded cables.

System <NUM> comprises one or more point-of-entry units located at one or more access location points within the living unit to provide access to the horizontal cabling provided within the MDU. In a preferred aspect, a point of entry unit comprises a low profile access base unit <NUM>, mountable over or onto at least a portion of the duct <NUM> that is located at an access location point. In an alternative aspect, the point of entry unit can comprise a funnel or other similar structure located at an access location point that provides an anchor point for the service line to enter the living unit.

In a preferred aspect, not covered by claims, the service line point of entry can be established by disposing unit <NUM> on a living unit wall <NUM> as shown in <FIG> at an access position corresponding to horizontal cabling that is disposed in the hallway of the building. An exemplary drop access system and method of installing the horizontal cabling provided within the MDU is described in <CIT>.

As shown in <FIG>, not covered by claims, the low profile access base unit <NUM> includes a cover <NUM> and a wall-mounting portion <NUM>. The cover <NUM> can have a low profile (with a circular, oval, rectangular, or other geometric outer shape) and/or decorative outer design for aesthetics within the living unit. The wall mounting portion <NUM> is located over the service fiber access point-of-entry within the living unit and provides structural support for the cover <NUM>. The wall mounting portion includes a main port to fit over or into a hole formed in a wall <NUM> of the living unit <NUM> that leads to the service fiber(s) of the horizontal cabling. The wall mounting portion <NUM> can also provide a slack storage section formed along a perimeter portion of an outer facing surface thereof. This slack storage provides for storing excess amounts of the drop line. For example, a series of tabs or other structures disposed near or at a perimeter of the wall mounting portion <NUM> can be disposed thereon and can be configured to loosely secure excess fiber around the perimeter of the wall mounting portion. The fiber can be protected from over-bending by configuring the wall mounting portion to have a suitable radius or width. As an example, low profile access structure <NUM> can be designed as a low profile base unit for a drop fiber point of entry system, such as is described in the pending <CIT>.

In one aspect, not covered by claims, the drop fiber(s) can be coupled to the service provider line via a standard coupling located in a drop access box <NUM> (see <FIG> ) disposed in a hallway of the MDU. Alternatively, the drop fiber(s) can be coupled to the service provider line via a standard coupling located between the hallway wall and the interior wall <NUM> of the living unit, as is described in <CIT>. In a further alternative, the low profile access base/point-of-entry unit <NUM> can include a standard coupling to couple the drop fiber(s) to the service provider line, such as when the service provider line is provided as a jumper from a central closet or similar location to the living unit or room.

The drop fiber(s), such as a terminated drop fiber(s), can be carried from the point-of-entry unit, such as low profile access base unit <NUM>, to a second anchor point within the living unit, in a preferred aspect, wall receptacle <NUM>, via low profile duct <NUM>. In a preferred aspect, the duct <NUM> is disposed along a wall, ceiling, under carpet, floor, or interior corner of the living unit in an unobtrusive manner, such that the aesthetics of the living unit are minimally impacted. For example, <FIG> shows a duct <NUM> installed at the corner formed by a wall and a ceiling to create a minimal visual impact.

As mentioned previously, system <NUM> includes a second anchor point at a distance from the point-of-entry to receive the drop fiber(s) and provide a connection with an optical network terminal (ONT) that is located within the living unit. In a preferred aspect, the second anchor point comprises a wall receptacle unit <NUM> that is configured to receive the drop fiber(s) and provide a connection with an ONT <NUM>, such as a single family unit optical network terminal (SFU ONT), desktop ONT, or similar device (e.g., a <NUM> Indoor Optical Terminal, available from Alcatel-Lucent or a Motorola ONT1120GE Desktop ONT). The wall receptacle <NUM> can be configured to provide one or more fiber connections using a conventional SC/APC connector(s) and/or jumpers <NUM> to the ONT <NUM>. In one aspect, the wall receptacle can be placed from about <NUM> inches to about <NUM> inches, preferably about <NUM> inches, from the floor of the living unit. The wall receptacle <NUM> can also accommodate one or more data lines or electrical connections. An exemplary wall receptacle is described in Patent Publication No. <CIT>.

In an alternative aspect, not covered by claims, a structure such as wall receptacle <NUM> can be omitted, as the drop fiber(s) can be terminated and accessed from the duct <NUM> directly to the ONT <NUM>.

In a further alternative aspect, not covered by claims, another exemplary wall receptacle is shown in <FIG>. Wall receptacle <NUM>' can comprise a metal, plastic, or other suitably robust material, preferably having a low profile. In this exemplary aspect, wall receptacle <NUM>' includes a base portion <NUM> and a cover <NUM>. In a preferred aspect, the cover <NUM> may comprise more than one cover, such as separate covers 292a and 292b shown in <FIG>. In this manner, certain portions of the interior of wall receptacle <NUM>' can be excluded from access, when appropriate. The covers 292a, 292b can be can be attached to base <NUM> via different types of attachment, such as friction fit, latch fit, sliding fit, or hinged attachment. For example, in <FIG>, cover 292b can be attached via a sliding fit. In one alternative aspect, cover 292b can be configured to slide underneath cover 292a when opened.

The wall receptacle <NUM>' is configured to receive one or more drop fibers <NUM> and provide a connection with an ONT (see e.g., ONT <NUM>). In the example of <FIG>, drop fiber <NUM> is field terminated with an optical fiber connector. If more than one drop fiber is utilized, the wall receptacle can include more than one connector. In this example, wall receptacle <NUM>' includes two connectors 282a, 282b. For example, connectors 282a, 282b can each comprise an optical fiber connector that includes a pre-polished fiber stub disposed in ferrule that is spliced to a field fiber with a mechanical splice, such as described in <CIT>. The drop fiber(s) <NUM> can be coupled to an ONT jumper cable(s) 297a, 297b via coupling or adapter 280a, 280b. Other conventional connectors can be utilized, as would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art given the present description. The exemplary couplings 280a, 280b, can be mounted within the coupling mounting area of base <NUM>. Each of the couplings 280a, 280b can comprise a conventional in-line optical fiber coupler or adapter. In a preferred aspect, each of the couplings 280a, 280b can incorporate a built-in shutter so that when the connector/jumper 297a, 297b is unplugged, the shutter door automatically closes and provides light safety to protect the user from potential eye damage caused by laser light.

In this preferred aspect, not covered by claims, the couplings 280a, 280b are mounted well within the receptacle <NUM>' such that only the boot portion of the jumper cables 297a, 297b is exposed when cover 292b is placed in a closed position. This configuration can reduce accidental strains being placed on the cable, whereas an exposed connector, such as one inserted at a port formed at the outer wall of the receptacle, can be subject to additional strains.

The wall receptacle <NUM>' can further include a fiber slack storage section <NUM> to route the accessed fiber. In this example, drop fiber <NUM> can be routed along one or more fiber guides and can be protected from over-bending by bend radius control structures formed in or on the base <NUM> in the fiber slack storage section.

In another aspect, not covered by claims, drop fiber <NUM> can enter wall receptacle <NUM>' via one of the break out doors 275a, 275b, or 275c (in the specific example of <FIG>, drop fiber <NUM> enters wall receptacle <NUM>' via door 275c).

An exemplary wall receptacle <NUM>" is shown in <FIG>, not covered by claims. Wall receptacle <NUM>" can comprise a metal, plastic, or other suitably robust material, preferably having a low profile. In this exemplary aspect, wall receptacle <NUM>" includes a base portion <NUM>' and a cover that comprises multiple covers, such as separate covers 292a and 292b' shown in <FIG>. The covers 292a, 292b' can be can be attached to base <NUM>' via different types of attachment, such as friction fit, latch fit, sliding fit, or hinged attachment. For example, cover 292b' can be attached to base <NUM>' via a hinged attachment, utilizing exemplary hinges <NUM> (see <FIG>).

Similar to the receptacle <NUM>', wall receptacle <NUM>" is configured to receive one or more drop fibers and provide a connection with an ONT (see e.g., ONT <NUM>). In this example, the drop fiber can be field terminated with an optical fiber connector. In this example, wall receptacle <NUM>" includes two connectors 282a, 282b. The drop fiber(s) can be coupled to an ONT jumper cable 297a, 297b via coupling or adapter 280a, 280b. The exemplary couplings 280a, 280b, can be mounted within the coupling mounting area of base <NUM>'. In this preferred aspect, the couplings 280a, 280b are mounted further within the receptacle <NUM>" such that the entire connector/boot portions of the jumper cables 297a, 297b are disposed within receptacle <NUM>" when cover 292b' is placed in a closed position. This configuration can provide more aesthetic appeal in some settings and provides tamper resistance.

The wall receptacle <NUM>" can further include a fiber slack storage section <NUM> to route the accessed fiber. Further, the drop fiber carried within duct <NUM> can enter wall receptacle <NUM>" via any one of the break out doors 275a, 275b, or 275c.

<FIG>, not covered by claims, shows an example building, here MDU <NUM>, with an exemplary drop access system to provide horizontal cabling to each individual living unit <NUM>. MDU <NUM> is a multi-floor structure having a plurality of living units <NUM> located therein. For example, floor <NUM> has four living units having a common hallway <NUM>. Feeder cable <NUM> brings communications lines to and from building <NUM>. These feeder lines are spliced to the MDU's cabling system at a splice closure <NUM>. The building feeder lines <NUM> are distributed to the building to a distribution hub (FDH) <NUM> in the building. Each floor includes a fiber distribution terminal (FDT) <NUM> that receives communications lines via riser cable <NUM>. In the present example, a drop access system <NUM> coupling the communications lines from FDT 65a can be installed on hallway <NUM> such as is described <CIT>, where drop access boxes <NUM> can be disposed outside each living unit and can receive one or more fiber optic communication lines from duct <NUM>.

As also mentioned above, the drop access location system can be configured to accommodate electrical wire drops and hybrid combination drops as well. In alternative aspects, the drop access location system can be configured to supply at least one of uninterrupted DC power and AC power to the wall receptacle or an ONT located in an individual living unit.

In more detail, a close-up isometric view of an exemplary duct <NUM> is shown in <FIG>. While system <NUM> is described herein as being implemented with a duct <NUM>, it is noted that other types of duct designs, especially ducts <NUM>', <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>, as described in more detail below, can be utilized in system <NUM>. In some aspects, these ducts can be installed in the living unit using an installation tool such as is described in <CIT>.

In the example of <FIG>, not covered by claims, duct <NUM> includes a conduit portion <NUM> having a bore <NUM> extending longitudinally therethrough. The bore is sized to accommodate one or more communications lines disposed therein. In a preferred aspect, the duct <NUM> comprises one or two communications lines, such as buffer coated optical fibers. In use, the duct <NUM> can be pre-populated with one or more communications lines. In addition, duct <NUM> may also be populated with at least one electrical power line. In one exemplary aspect, the inner diameter of bore <NUM> is sized to be just slightly larger (e.g., about <NUM>% larger or less) than the outer diameter of the communications line disposed therein. In another aspect, the conduit portion can include a strength member, such as Kevlar yarn.

While conduit portion <NUM> can have a generally circular cross-section, in alternative embodiments it may have another shape, such as a rectangle, square, triangle, oval, or other polygonal shaped cross-section. In one aspect, duct <NUM> is a continuous structure formed from a polymeric material such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), making it flexible, flame retardant and robust. In one aspect, duct <NUM> can comprise an exemplary material such as a polyurethane elastomer, e.g., Elastollan 1185A10FHF (available from BASF, Florham Park, NJ). As such, duct <NUM> can be guided and bent around corners and other structures without cracking or splitting. Duct <NUM> can be continuously formed using a conventional extrusion process. Duct <NUM> can have a relatively compact shape, with a lateral dimension from about <NUM> (<NUM> inches) to about <NUM> (<NUM> inch), and a height of less than about <NUM> (<NUM> inch) to about <NUM> (<NUM> inches).

Duct <NUM> also includes a generally flat flange structure having a first flange 215a and a second flange 215b extending laterally from the conduit portion to provide support for the duct <NUM> as it is installed on or fastened to a wall or other generally flat surface, such as a wall, floor, ceiling, or molding. In this aspect, the flange structure extends along the longitudinal axis of the duct and extends outward (in a wing shape) in both lateral directions. In this aspect, the conduit portion <NUM> is formed centrally with respect to the first and second flanges 215a, 215b. In addition, as is shown in <FIG>, an alternative duct <NUM>' can further include dual recess portions <NUM> formed between the conduit <NUM> and the flanges 215a, 215b. The recessed portions can provide further duct flexibility for corner installation and bending.

In a preferred aspect, not covered by claims, as shown in <FIG>, the duct <NUM> includes a rear surface <NUM> that can have a generally flat surface shape. The rear surface provides suitable surface area for adhering the duct <NUM> to a mounting surface, a wall or other surface (e.g., a dry wall, concrete, or other conventional building material) using an adhesive, such as a pressure sensitive adhesive, such as a transfer adhesive or double-sided tape. For example, the adhesive backing <NUM> comprises a pressure sensitive adhesive, such as a transfer adhesive or double-sided tape, disposed on all or at least part of surface <NUM>. These types of adhesives do not exhibit macroscopic flow behavior upon application to a mounting surface and thus do not substantially change dimensions upon application to the mounting surface. In this manner, the aesthetic quality of the applied duct is maintained. Alternatively, adhesive backing <NUM> can comprise an epoxy.

In one aspect, not covered by claims, surface <NUM> is backed with an adhesive backing <NUM> having a removable liner <NUM>. In use, the liner can be removed and the surface <NUM> can be applied to a mounting surface via adhesive <NUM>. For example, an adhesive such as a factory applied <NUM>™ VHB™ Tape 4941F can be utilized as adhesive backing <NUM>. In another aspect, adhesive layer <NUM> comprises a removable adhesive, such as a stretch release adhesive. By "removable adhesive" it is meant that the duct <NUM> can be mounted to a mounting surface (preferably, a generally flat surface, although some surface texture and/or curvature are contemplated) so that the duct <NUM> remains in its mounted state until acted upon by an installer/user to remove the duct from its mounted position. Even though the duct is removable, the adhesive is suitable for those applications where the user intends for the duct to remain in place for an extended period of time. Suitable removable adhesives are described in more detail in <CIT>.

Optionally, duct <NUM> can further include an open top or slot that runs the longitudinal length of the duct to provide access for inserting or removing the fiber(s). For example, as shown in <FIG>, alternative duct <NUM>' includes a slot <NUM> configured to provide for the straightforward insertion of a drop fiber, such as drop fiber <NUM>. The slot <NUM> can be formed during the extrusion process as a permanent slot or, alternatively, it can be formed in the factory or in the field using a cutting tool to provide a longitudinal opening in the duct. The tool can be applied to an empty duct or a duct that is pre-populated with one or more communication lines (e.g., drop fiber(s), such as drop fiber <NUM>). In a further alternative, slot <NUM> runs only a portion of the longitudinal length of the duct <NUM>'. Thus, a communication line can be easily into or removed from duct <NUM>'.

In one aspect, not covered by claims, the slot opening <NUM> has a size of about <NUM>% or less of the communication line/drop fiber outer diameter. In another aspect, the slot opening has a size of from about <NUM>% to about <NUM>% of the communication line/drop fiber outer diameter. For example, in some applications, a communication line can be inserted in slot <NUM> such that a portion of the line is visible after insertion. In another example, for other applications, for a smaller slot opening (e.g., the sides of the slot can be touching after insertion of the communication line), a communication line can be inserted in slot <NUM> such that the communication line is not visible after insertion.

In a further alternative, not covered by claims, duct <NUM> (or <NUM>') can also include a strength member, such as an aramid string (e.g., a woven or non-woven Kevlar™ material) or aramid yarn that can be bonded or un-bonded, such as those described co-pending <CIT>. The strength member can be disposed along the length of the duct between bottom surface <NUM> and adhesive layer <NUM>.

A drop cable can be disposed within duct <NUM> and can be accessed and connected to the service line(s) at the access box <NUM> (see <FIG> ) or the base unit <NUM>. In one aspect, the drop cable comprises a tight bend radius, <NUM> buffered optical fiber. Such an optical fiber cable is commercially available as DrakaElite™ BendBright XS Single Mode Optical Fiber, from Draka Communications. Also in this aspect, an exemplary drop cable comprises a <NUM> jacketed drop cable commercially available as ez Patch™ cabling and ez Drop™ cabling from Draka Communications, or blown fiber cabling. In another alternative aspect, the exemplary drop cable can comprise a micro-module, such as is commercially available from Acoma that includes a plurality, e.g., four, <NUM> fibers disposed in a tube that allows for management of the multiple fibers together. A coupling or adapter can be used in the access box <NUM> to connect the telecommunications service line to the drop fiber(s). In an exemplary aspect, the telecommunications fiber is field terminated with an optical fiber connector, such as described in <CIT>. Other optical fiber connectors, such as SC-APC, SC-UPC, LC, or MTP/MPO, can be utilized.

In another aspect, not covered by claims, an alternative duct <NUM> is shown in <FIG>. Duct <NUM> can include a bore <NUM> formed in the conduit portion <NUM>. Duct <NUM> also includes a wing-shaped flange structure having a first flange 315a and a second flange 315b, both laterally extending from the conduit portion <NUM>, to provide support for the duct <NUM> as it is installed on or fastened to a wall or other generally flat surface. The duct <NUM> includes a rear surface <NUM> that has a generally flat surface shape. In addition, duct <NUM> includes dual recess portions <NUM> formed between the conduit portion <NUM> and the flanges 315a, 315b to provide further duct flexibility for corner bending. In this particular aspect, conduit portion <NUM> is formed centrally with respect the flange wings and with respect to the plane of the wing-shaped flanges 315a, 315b. The flanges 315a, 315b and surface <NUM> can be formed in the same manner as described above. As shown in <FIG>, an adhesive backing <NUM> with a removable liner <NUM> is disposed on surface <NUM>. In use, the liner can be removed and the surface <NUM> can be applied to a mounting surface via adhesive <NUM>.

<FIG>, not covered by claims, shows a partial view of exemplary duct <NUM> in use, where duct <NUM> is mounted at a corner location, and carries drop fiber <NUM> through the living unit. In this aspect, the recessed portions 317a, 317b provide further duct flexibility, where one flange 315a can be mounted on a ceiling and the other flange 315b can be mounted on a perpendicular side wall via adhesive backing <NUM>.

<FIG>, not covered by claims, show views of alternative ducts <NUM> and <NUM>'. In the alternative aspect shown in <FIG>, duct <NUM> can include a bore <NUM> formed in the conduit portion <NUM>. Duct <NUM> also includes a flange structure having a first flange 415a and a second flange 415b to provide support for the duct <NUM> as it is installed on or fastened to a wall or other generally flat surface. In this aspect, the flanges 415a, 415b do not extend laterally as far as the flanges for ducts <NUM> and <NUM>, giving the duct <NUM> an omega-shaped cross section. The duct <NUM> includes a bottom or rear surface <NUM> that has a generally flat surface shape. An adhesive backing <NUM> (optionally with a removable liner <NUM>) can be disposed on surface <NUM>.

<FIG>, not covered by claims, shows an alternative duct <NUM>'. Duct <NUM>' is shaped similarly to duct <NUM> and additionally includes a support duct <NUM> extending at least partially along the longitudinal length of the main duct that can be utilized to provide structural support to duct <NUM>' when the duct is used in a free span. In particular, support duct <NUM> is coupled to the main duct by attaching to the opposite side of adhesive backing <NUM>. In addition, the support duct <NUM> includes a strength member channel <NUM> disposed centrally and extending lengthwise therethrough. The strength member channel <NUM> can include a strength member, such as an aramid yarn, metallic wire, fiberglass member, or Kevlar material that enables the duct <NUM>' to be supported without having to attach that portion of the duct to a wall or other surface. Alternatively, channel <NUM> can be utilized to carry an electrical wire therein.

Optionally, duct <NUM> can further include a slot that runs the longitudinal length of the duct to provide access for inserting or removing the fiber(s). For example, as shown in <FIG>, alternative duct <NUM>" includes a slot <NUM> configured to provide for the straightforward insertion of a drop fiber, such as drop fiber <NUM>. <FIG> shows drop fiber <NUM> inserted within duct <NUM>".

In a further alternative, not covered by claims, duct <NUM> (or <NUM>") can also include a strength member, such as an aramid string or aramid yarn, such as those described above, disposed along the length of the duct between bottom surface <NUM> and adhesive layer <NUM>.

In a further aspect, not covered by claims, alternatively, in <FIG> the duct 410a' can include multiple conduits, in this example conduit <NUM> includes a first bore 413a, whereas second lengthwise bore 413b and third lengthwise bore 413c, each formed in the main duct body, provide a second conduit and a third conduit. One or more optical fibers can be disposed in the first bore 413a, while strength members, such as aramid yarn, metallic wire, fiberglass member, or Kevlar material, can be disposed in the second and third conduits. The flange structure and adhesive backing can be similar to that described previously with respect to <FIG>.

In another alternative aspect, not covered by claims, <FIG> show views of alternative ducts <NUM> and <NUM>'. In the alternative aspect shown in <FIG>, duct <NUM> can include a bore <NUM> formed in the conduit portion <NUM>. In this aspect, duct <NUM> includes a single-sided flange <NUM> or similar flattened portion to provide support for the duct <NUM> as it is installed on or fastened to a wall or other generally flat surface. The duct <NUM> includes a rear surface <NUM> that has a generally flat surface shape. An adhesive backing <NUM> (optionally with a removable liner-not shown) can be disposed on surface <NUM> of duct <NUM>.

<FIG>, not covered by claims, shows an alternative duct <NUM>'. Duct <NUM>' is shaped similarly to duct <NUM> and additionally includes a support duct <NUM>, similar to that described above with respect to <FIG>. In particular, support duct <NUM> is coupled to duct <NUM> by attaching to the opposite side of adhesive backing <NUM>. In addition, the support duct <NUM> includes a strength member channel <NUM> disposed centrally and extending lengthwise therethrough to provide support for free span applications. In further alternative aspects, each of ducts <NUM> and <NUM> can include a support duct <NUM> attached in a similar manner.

In an aspect according to the invention, <FIG> shows a cross section view and <FIG> shows an isometric view of an alternative duct <NUM>. Duct <NUM> includes an open conduit portion, with a main fiber channel <NUM> formed between opposing walls 614a and 614b. The main fiber channel <NUM> has a width that corresponds to a width slightly less that the diameter of a drop fiber <NUM>, such as a <NUM> buffered optical fiber. The opening <NUM> of the main fiber channel <NUM> is configured to receive the drop fiber <NUM> and the opposing side walls 614a and 614b are configured to provide some flexibility so that the drop fiber <NUM> can snugly fit within main fiber channel. Duct <NUM> also includes a flange structure having a first flange 615a and a second flange 615b to provide support for the duct <NUM> as it is installed on or fastened to a wall or other generally flat surface, such as a wall. In this aspect, the flange extends along the longitudinal axis of the duct and extends outward (in a wing shape) in both lateral directions. In a preferred aspect, the duct <NUM> includes a rear surface <NUM> that has a generally flat surface shape to receive an adhesive backing <NUM> having a removable liner <NUM>. Duct <NUM> can be formed from a clear or translucent polymeric material, such as a polycarbonate, making it less visible, while retaining flexibility and robustness. The adhesive <NUM> can also be formed from a clear material.

As is shown in <FIG>, duct <NUM> can be provided in segmented form. For example, duct segments 612a and 612b are shown in <FIG>. An opening <NUM> can be formed between each duct segment. In addition, at the segment opening, the flange structure can include a raised surface or bump <NUM> extending laterally across the fiber axis to provide for easier bending of the entire duct at certain mounting locations. In other alternative aspects, the longitudinal length of the duct segments (and the segment openings) can longer or shorter, depending on the application.

In a further alternative, not covered by claims, an exemplary duct includes at least one additional conduit, where the first conduit is configured to contain at least a first communication line and the additional conduit is configured to contain at least a second communication line. For example, as shown in <FIG>, duct <NUM> that is utilized to carry multiple communication lines individually in separate conduit portions 712a-712d, each having a bore 713a-713d configured to house an individual line 701a-701d. The communication lines can be optical fibers, such as drop fibers, or electrical wires. In one aspect, each of the bores is sized such that the inner diameter of the bore is slightly larger than the outer diameter of the communication line disposed therein.

Duct <NUM> also includes a flange structure having a first flange 715a and a second flange 715b, both laterally extending from the conduit portions to provide support for the duct <NUM> as it is installed on a wall or other mounting surface. The duct <NUM> includes a rear surface <NUM> that has a generally flat surface shape. Optionally, duct <NUM> can further include one or more slots that run the longitudinal length of the duct to provide access for inserting or removing the communication lines. For example, as shown in <FIG>, alternative duct <NUM> can include slots 711a-711d each configured to provide for the straightforward insertion/removal of drop fibers, such as drop fibers 701a-701d. In a further aspect, one or more strength members can be disposed between the bottom surface <NUM> and adhesive layer <NUM>.

The configuration of duct <NUM> can be particularly useful for living units in countries where multiple communication lines are required - the fiber channels or separate conduits can allow for straightforward installation. In a related aspect, different communication lines within duct <NUM> can be associated with different service providers.

In another alternative aspect, not covered by claims, <FIG> shows a view of alternative duct <NUM>. In the alternative aspect shown in <FIG>, duct <NUM> can include a bore <NUM> formed in the conduit portion <NUM>. In this aspect, duct <NUM> includes a flange structure having a single-sided flange <NUM> or similar flattened portion to provide support for the duct <NUM> as it is installed on a wall or other generally flat surface. In this configuration, conduit portion <NUM> is attached to flange <NUM> via a thin web of material, or neck <NUM>. The neck <NUM> has a thickness such that upon modest application of a peeling force, a segment of the conduit portion <NUM> can be detached or peeled away from the flange <NUM>. In this example, the neck <NUM> can have a thickness of from about <NUM>% to about <NUM> % of the thickness of the flange <NUM>. With this configuration, the telecommunication line (or multiple telecommunication lines) disposed in bore <NUM> resides in the same bending plane as the flange <NUM>, such as when placed in spool form prior to installation. In this example, a drop fiber <NUM>, e.g., a <NUM> buffered fiber, is disposed in bore <NUM>. Optionally, a strength member, such as aramid (e.g., Kevlar) yarn, can also be disposed in bore <NUM>.

The duct <NUM> can be formed from the same materials as described above with respect to the other alternative ducts.

In addition, the configuration of duct <NUM> can make in-plane turns and bends of any angle more straightforward. For example, as shown in <FIG>, duct <NUM> can be placed at a right angle, in-plane turn on a wall surface by separating conduit <NUM> from flange <NUM> and removing a portion of flange <NUM> at the bend location.

In a further alternative aspect, not covered by claims, the conduit portion <NUM> can further include a metal wire disposed therein that retains its bent shape upon bending. This alternative configuration can allow for more straightforward bending around outer and inner corners, as the duct more easily holds its bent shape. In a further alternative, conduit portion <NUM> can further include a coaxial (e.g., micro-coaxial) wire or twisted wire pair.

Referring back to <FIG>, not covered by claims, the duct <NUM> also includes a rear surface <NUM> that has a generally flat surface shape. An adhesive backing <NUM> (optionally with a removable liner-not shown) can be disposed on surface <NUM> of duct <NUM>. The adhesive backing may be formed from any of the adhesives described above.

Optionally, duct <NUM> may further include a separate strength member channel <NUM>. In another alternative aspect, duct <NUM> can include a strength member, such as an aramid string or aramid yarn, such as those described above, disposed along the length of the duct between bottom surface <NUM> and adhesive layer <NUM>.

<FIG>, not covered by claims, shows an alternative duct <NUM>, that includes a bore <NUM> formed in the conduit portion <NUM>. In this aspect, duct <NUM> includes a flange structure having a double-sided flange 915a, 915b or similar flattened portion to provide support for the duct <NUM> as it is installed on a wall or other generally flat surface. In this configuration, conduit portion <NUM> is attached to a central portion of flange structure 915a, 915b via a thin web of material, or neck <NUM>. The neck <NUM> has a thickness such that upon modest application of a peeling force, a segment of the conduit portion <NUM> can be detached from the flange structure. In this example, the neck <NUM> can have a thickness of from about <NUM>% to about <NUM>% of the outer diameter of conduit portion <NUM>. In this example, a drop fiber <NUM>, e.g., a <NUM> buffered fiber, is disposed in bore <NUM>. Optionally, a strength member, such as aramid (e.g., Kevlar) yarn, can also be disposed in bore <NUM>.

In an alternative aspect, not covered by claims, duct <NUM> can include multiple conduit portions disposed on flange structure 915a, 915b, with each conduit portion attached to the flange structure via a thin web of material such that each conduit portion can be detached from the flange structure upon the modest application of a peeling force.

In addition, the configuration of duct <NUM> can make in-plane turns and bends of any angle more straightforward. For example, as shown in <FIG>, duct <NUM> can be placed at a right angle, in-plane turn on a wall surface by separating conduit <NUM> from flange structure 915a, 915b and removing a portion of flange structure 915a, 915b at the bend location.

In a further alternative aspect, not covered by claims, the conduit portion <NUM> can further include a metal wire that retains its bent shape upon bending. This alternative configuration can allow for more straightforward bending around outer and inner corners, as the duct more easily holds its bent shape. In a further alternative, conduit portion <NUM> can further include a coaxial (e.g., micro-coaxial) wire or twisted wire pair.

In a further alternative aspect, not covered by claims, <FIG> shows a view of alternative duct <NUM>. In the alternative aspect shown in <FIG>, duct <NUM> includes dual conduits 1012a, 1012b having a flange structure <NUM> disposed in between. A bore 1013a is formed in the conduit portion 1012a and a bore 1013b is formed in the conduit portion 1012b. In this aspect, duct <NUM> includes a flange structure having a single flange <NUM> or similar flattened portion disposed between the conduit portions to provide support for the duct <NUM> as it is installed on a wall or other generally flat surface. In this configuration, conduit portions 1012a and 1012b are attached to flange <NUM> via thin webs of material, or necks 1011a and 1011b. The necks 1011a and 1011b each have a thickness such that upon modest application of a peeling force, a segment of the conduit portions 1012a and/or 1012b can be detached or peeled away from the flange <NUM>. In this example, necks 1011a and 1011b can each have a thickness of from about <NUM>% to about <NUM>% of the thickness of the flange <NUM>. With this configuration, the telecommunication line (or multiple telecommunication lines) disposed in bores 1013a, 1013b each reside in the same bending plane as the flange <NUM>, such as when placed in spool form prior to installation. In this example, drop fibers 207a, 207b are disposed in bores 1013a, 1013b. Optionally, a strength member, such as aramid (e.g., Kevlar) yarn, can also be disposed in bores 1013a, 1013b. In a further alternative, duct <NUM> can provide hybrid cabling, where conduit 1012a can carry a drop fiber, e.g., a <NUM> buffered fiber, or multiple fibers, and conduit 1012b can carry a coaxial cable or twisted wire pair.

In addition, the configuration of duct <NUM> can make in-plane turns and bends of any angle more straightforward. For example, as shown in <FIG>, duct <NUM> can be placed at a right angle, in-plane turn on a wall surface by separating conduits 1012a and 1012b from flange <NUM> and removing a portion of flange <NUM> at the bend location.

In a further alternative aspect, not covered by claims, one or both of the conduit portions 1012a, 1012b can further include a metal wire disposed therein that retains its bent shape upon bending. This alternative configuration can allow for more straightforward bending around outer and inner corners, as the duct more easily holds its bent shape.

In a further alternative aspect, not covered by claims, the duct utilized within system <NUM> can comprise a low-profile, adhesive-backed fiber tape. This alternative duct can include a cover material that can be selected to provide flame resistance, such as V0 flame resistance for agency listing. The cover material can be a paintable material, or, in a further alternative, cover material may be covered with a decorative molding or wall paper. In this alternative aspect, the duct may be constructed in a similar manner to the adhesive-backed fiber tape described in <CIT>.

In a further alternative aspect, not covered by claims, the duct may be substituted with a clear (substantially transparent) or translucent, pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA) tape, such as a model <NUM> polyurethane protective tape, or a paint protection film SGH6 and SGH12 (available from <NUM> Company, St. Paul, MN), with a thickness of about <NUM> mils or less, preferably about <NUM> mils to about <NUM> mils. These tapes may have a clear, glassy, matte, or satin finish. This tape can be utilized to support a drop fiber having a clear buffer coating. The tape may be dispensed flat from a roll and can conform to the drop fiber as it is applied, where the drop fiber is disposed between the adhesive surface of the tape and the mounting wall or surface. In this manner, the drop fiber run from the point-of-entry unit to the wall receptacle can be barely visible.

While many of the ducts described herein are shown having a symmetrical shape, the duct designs can be modified to have an asymmetric shape (such as a flange wider on one side than the other), as would be apparent to one of skill in the art given the present description.

Moreover, the ducts described herein may be coextruded with at least two materials. A first material can exhibit properties that afford protection of the optical fibers within the conduit portion of each duct such as against accidental damage due to impact, compression, or even provide some protection against intentional misuse such as stapling. A second material can provide functional flexibility for cornering within a plane. The flange portion of the duct may be extruded of a lower durometer material that allows it to be easily formed around a corner while maintaining a planar surface for secure bonding and wetting of the adhesive to the wall. The material forming the external wall near the conduits can provide a way for straightforward access such as making a window cut for accessing the fibers.

In a further alternative aspect, not covered by claims, the duct (e.g., duct <NUM>) utilized within system <NUM> can comprise an extruded polymer material, such as those described above, that is loaded with cut-up or chopped strength member (e.g., aramid) pieces to provide against excessive localized stretching during the application process.

In some aspects, not covered by claims, the ducts are typically extruded with a V0 flame resistant material, and can be of a material that is paintable, or in a further alternative, covered with another decorative material. In some applications, the ducts can often be filled with one or more <NUM> buffer coated bend insensitive fibers that comply with ITU <NUM>-D, ITU <NUM>-A and ITU <NUM>-B standards, though other fibers may be used such as <NUM> coated fibers or <NUM> coated fibers.

In addition, the exemplary ducts described herein can be further utilized in non-telecommunication applications. For example, the exemplary ducts described herein can be utilized for general wire routing within or outside a building/living unit, such as to route speaker/AV wires, power wires, and other signal wires.

Claim 1:
A cable routing system comprising:
a duct (<NUM>) comprising a continuous flange structure (615a, 615b), a continuous rear surface (<NUM>), and two sequentially arranged duct segments (612a, 612b) each including opposing walls (614a, 614b) configured to provide some flexibility and defining a main fiber channel (<NUM>) therebetween, the main fiber channel (<NUM>) being configured to receive a drop fiber so that the drop fiber snugly fits within the main fiber channel (<NUM>);
wherein the main fiber channel (<NUM>) comprises a longitudinal opening (<NUM>) extending parallel to the longitudinal axis of the drop fiber and wherein the main fiber channel (<NUM>) has a width that corresponds to a width slightly less than the diameter of the drop fiber;
wherein the continuous flange structure (615a, 615b) is configured to provide support for the cable routing system as the cable routing system is installed on or fastened to a wall or other generally flat surface;
wherein the continuous rear surface (<NUM>) comprises a generally flat surface shaped to receive an adhesive backing (<NUM>) having a removable liner (<NUM>); and
wherein the duct (<NUM>) is formed of a polymeric material.