Patent Description:
Benefits of optical fiber use include extremely wide bandwidth and low noise operation. Because of these advantages, optical fiber is increasingly being used for a variety of applications, including but not limited to broadband voice, video, and data transmission. Fiber optic networks employing optical fiber are being developed and used to deliver voice, video, and data transmissions to subscribers over both private and public networks. These fiber optic networks often include separated connection points at which it is necessary to link optical fibers in order to provide "live fiber" from one connection point to another connection point. In this regard, fiber optic equipment is located in data distribution centers or central offices to support interconnections.

The fiber optic equipment is customized based on the application need. The fiber optic equipment is typically included in housings that are mounted in equipment racks to maximize space. One example of such fiber optic equipment is a fiber optic module. A fiber optic module is designed to provide cable-to-cable fiber optic connections and manage the polarity of fiber optic cable connections. The fiber optic module is typically mounted to a chassis which is then mounted inside an equipment rack or housing. The chassis may be provided in the form of a tray that is extendable from the equipment rack like a drawer. This allows a technician access to fiber optic adapters disposed in the fiber optic module and any fiber optic cables connected to the fiber optic adapters without removing the fiber optic module from the equipment rack.

Even with advancements in access to fiber optic modules, the labor associated with installing fiber optic modules and making optical connections is significant. For example, for a field technician to install a new fiber optic module, the field technician typically loads trunk cables in the rear section of a fiber optic equipment rack. The field technician then feeds the connectorized fanout legs from the trunk cable to the front of the equipment rack. The field technician then walks around to the front of the equipment rack to connect the fanout legs to a fiber optic module. Because data distribution centers are typically large facilities with significant numbers of equipment racks, walking back and forth from the rear section to the front section of the equipment rack during an installation can take significant time. Alternatively, a second technician may work in tandem with the first technician, where the first technician manages loading of fiber optic cables in the rear section of the equipment rack. The second technician remains in the front of the rack to install the fiber optic modules and establish optical connections between the fiber optic cables and the fiber optic modules. In either scenario, fiber optic cables are installed in the rear section of the equipment rack and the fiber optic modules and connections are installed from the front of the equipment rack thereby requiring extensive labor. Fiber optic equipment racks allowing the rear mount of fiber optic modules are known (<CIT>, <CIT>, <CIT>). Systems with sliding equipment trays mounted in racks or in a chassis are also known (<CIT>, <CIT>, <CIT>). Module locks with releasable locking arms for the front mount of modules into a chassis are known from <CIT>.

The present invention relates to fiber optic apparatuses according to the independent claim <NUM> that support rear-installable fiber optic modules. The fiber optic modules are configured to support fiber optic connections. The fiber optic equipment is comprised of a chassis defining a front end and a rear section. A guide system is disposed in the chassis and configured to receive fiber optic modules. The guide system is provided in the form of a rail guide system. The guide system receives a fiber optic module from the rear section of the chassis and is configured to guide the fiber optic module toward the front end of the chassis. In this manner, a technician can make fiber optic connections to fiber optic modules and also install the fiber optic modules into the fiber optic equipment from the rear section of the chassis to reduce time and/or labor in making fiber optic connections.

The guide system is comprised of a tray guide system for the fiber optic equipment trays. The tray guides are disposed in the chassis of the fiber optic equipment. The tray guides support fiber optic equipment trays within the fiber optic equipment. The module guides are disposed in the fiber optic equipment trays to support the fiber optic modules. In this manner, the fiber optic equipment tray can translate within the chassis to move the fiber optic modules supported by the fiber optic equipment tray about the chassis. The module guides also allow fiber optic modules to be rear-installable into the fiber optic equipment tray to be rear-installable in the fiber optic equipment. The module guides disposed in the fiber optic equipment tray also allow the fiber optic modules disposed therein to be independently translated within the fiber optic equipment tray.

The drawings illustrate various examples, and together with the description serve to explain the principles and operation of the invention.

Reference will now be made in detail to the preferred embodiments of the present invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

Examples disclosed in the detailed description include fiber optic equipment that supports one or more rear-installable fiber optic modules. The fiber optic modules are configured to support fiber optic connections. The fiber optic equipment is comprised of a chassis defining a front end and a rear section. A guide system is disposed in the chassis and configured to receive at least one fiber optic module. The guide system is provided in the form of a rail guide system. The guide system receives a fiber optic module from the rear section of the chassis and is configured to guide the fiber optic module toward the front end of the chassis. In this manner, a technician can make fiber optic connections to fiber optic modules and also install the fiber optic modules into the fiber optic equipment from the rear section of the chassis to reduce time and/or labor in making fiber optic connections.

The guide system is comprised of tray guides that receive fiber optic equipment trays. The tray guides are disposed in the chassis of the fiber optic equipment. The tray guides support fiber optic equipment trays within the fiber optic equipment. Module guides are disposed in the fiber optic equipment trays to support fiber optic modules. In this manner, the fiber optic equipment tray can translate within the chassis to move the fiber optic modules supported by the fiber optic equipment tray about the chassis. The module guides also allow fiber optic modules to be rear-installable into the fiber optic equipment tray to be rear-installable in the fiber optic equipment. The module guides disposed in the fiber optic equipment tray also allow the fiber optic modules disposed therein to be independently translated within the fiber optic equipment tray.

<FIG> illustrates an exemplary fiber optic equipment <NUM> in this regard. The exemplary fiber optic equipment <NUM> may be provided at a data distribution center or central office to support cable-to-cable fiber optic connections and to manage a plurality of fiber optic cable connections. As will be described in greater detail below, the fiber optic equipment <NUM> has fiber optic equipment trays that each support rear-installable fiber optic modules. The fiber optic modules can be fiber optic adapter modules or any other type of fiber optic modules or fiber optic apparatuses, including those that support fiber optic connections. The fiber optic modules and the fiber optic equipment trays are rear-installable, meaning they can be installed from a rear section of the fiber optic equipment <NUM>. Further, both the fiber optic equipment trays and the fiber optic modules supported therein are independently translatable about the chassis for installation, access, and/or removal.

In this regard and as illustrated in <FIG>, the fiber optic equipment <NUM> includes a fiber optic equipment chassis <NUM> ("chassis <NUM>"). The chassis <NUM> is shown as being installed in a fiber optic equipment rack <NUM>. The fiber optic equipment rack <NUM> contains two vertical rails 16A, 16B that extend vertically and include a series of apertures <NUM> for facilitating attachment of the fiber optic equipment <NUM> inside the fiber optic equipment rack <NUM>. The fiber optic equipment <NUM> is attached and supported by the fiber optic equipment rack <NUM> in the form of shelves that are stacked on top of each other within the vertical rails 16A, 16B. As illustrated, the fiber optic equipment <NUM> is attached to the vertical rails 16A, 16B. The fiber optic equipment rack <NUM> may support 1U-sized shelves, with "U" equal a standard <NUM>/<NUM> inches in height. As will be discussed in greater detail later in this application, the fiber optic equipment <NUM> includes a plurality of extendable fiber optic equipment trays <NUM> that each carries one or more rear-installable fiber optic modules <NUM>. In this example, the fiber optic equipment <NUM> provides a density of <NUM> fibers, although it is not limited to this density. Further, as will also be described in more detail below, each fiber optic equipment tray <NUM> is independently translatable and accessible to access the fiber optic modules supported therein.

<FIG> illustrates a rear perspective view of the fiber optic equipment <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>. The fiber optic equipment <NUM> is provided in the chassis <NUM> that defines a front end <NUM>, a rear section <NUM>, a first end <NUM>, and a second end <NUM>. The first end <NUM> of the chassis <NUM> is disposed on the opposite side of the second end <NUM> of the chassis <NUM>. A guide system in the form of a rail guide system <NUM> is provided to support the rear-installable fiber optic modules <NUM>. The rail guide system <NUM> comprises two tray rail guides 32A, 32B attached to the chassis <NUM> on the first end <NUM> and the second end <NUM>, respectively. The tray rail guides 32A, 32B are configured to support one or more fiber optic equipment trays that support the fiber optic modules <NUM>, which will be illustrated in <FIG> and described below. The tray rail guides 32A, 32B allow each fiber optic equipment tray <NUM> installed therein to be translated about the chassis <NUM>. In this example, the chassis <NUM> supports three (<NUM>) fiber optic equipment trays <NUM> with each one stacked on top of each other. A tray cover <NUM> is disposed on top of the top fiber optic equipment tray <NUM> disposed in the chassis <NUM> and within the tray rail guides 32A, 32B. As will be discussed later in this application, each fiber optic equipment tray <NUM> contains a fiber routing tray <NUM> attached thereto to support routing of optical fibers connected to the fiber optic modules <NUM>. The fiber routing tray <NUM> can be extended and lowered as desired to obtain access to the fiber optic modules <NUM> from the front end <NUM> of the fiber optic equipment <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates the tray rail guides 32A, 32B in more detail. As illustrated therein, the tray rail guides 32A, 32B form a series of channels 38A-38C, wherein each channel 38A-38C is configured to receive a fiber optic equipment tray <NUM>. The tray rail guides 32A, 32B allow a plurality of fiber optic trays <NUM> arranged in a column format. The tray rail guides 32A, 32B comprise an end portion <NUM> by which the channels 38A-38C stop and the fiber optic equipment trays <NUM> cannot extend beyond. This end portion <NUM> is disposed in an orientation such that it is adjacent the rear section <NUM> of the fiber optic equipment <NUM>. The tray rail guides 32A, 32B also contain an entry portion <NUM> through which the fiber optic equipment trays <NUM> can be inserted into the channels 38A-38C. Note that the entry portion <NUM> does not close off the channels 38A-38C such that the fiber optic equipment trays <NUM> can be extended beyond the entry portion <NUM> back towards the rear section <NUM> of the chassis <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates an individual fiber optic equipment tray <NUM> not disposed in the chassis <NUM> or contained within the tray rail guides 32A, 32B for further discussion and illustration. As illustrated therein, the fiber optic equipment tray <NUM> contains a main tray portion <NUM> and the fiber routing tray <NUM> attached thereto. The fiber routing tray <NUM> is attached to the main tray portion <NUM> via hinge mechanisms in the form of hinges 46A, 46B disposed on each end 48A, 48B of the main tray portion <NUM>. The main tray portion <NUM> contains a plurality of module guides in the form of module rail guides <NUM> that support the fiber optic modules <NUM>. More specifically, the fiber optic modules <NUM> contain rails (elements 52A, 52B in <FIG>) that couple to channels <NUM> disposed within the module rail guides <NUM>. The fiber optic modules <NUM> are disposed in a row arrangement if at least one intermediate module rail guide <NUM> is disposed in the fiber optic equipment tray <NUM>. Providing a plurality of channels <NUM> in each module rail guide <NUM> allows a plurality of fiber optic modules <NUM> to be stacked on top of each other in a column arrangement. The fiber optic modules <NUM> can be moved within the module rail guides <NUM> in the fiber optic equipment tray <NUM> either towards the front end <NUM> of the chassis <NUM> or the rear section <NUM> or the chassis <NUM>. The fiber optic equipment trays <NUM> can also be moved about the tray rail guides 32A, 32B. In this manner, the fiber optic equipment trays <NUM> can be translated independently of each other about the tray rail guides 32A, 32B, and each of the fiber optic modules <NUM> within a given fiber optic equipment tray <NUM> can be independently translated within their respective module rail guides <NUM>.

Note that in <FIG>, the fiber optic equipment tray <NUM> contains five (<NUM>) module rail guides <NUM>, which means that the fiber optic equipment tray <NUM> can support four (<NUM>) individual fiber optic modules <NUM>. Four (<NUM>) fiber optic modules <NUM> can be installed in the fiber optic equipment tray <NUM> of <FIG>, or less than four as desired or as required according to installation requirements. Also as shown in <FIG> and as illustrated in more detail in <FIG>, the module rail guides <NUM> are configured such that the channels <NUM> are open on a rear end <NUM> of the module rail guides <NUM>. This allows the fiber optic modules <NUM> to be rear-installable into the fiber optic equipment trays <NUM> from the rear section <NUM> of the chassis <NUM>. More specifically, the fiber optic equipment tray <NUM> is disposed in the chassis <NUM> such that the rear ends <NUM> of the module rail guides <NUM> are oriented towards the rear section <NUM> of the chassis <NUM>. Thus, as will be discussed in more detail below, the fiber optic modules <NUM> can be inserted into the rear ends <NUM> of the module rail guides <NUM> and pushed forward within the module rail guides <NUM> until the fiber optic modules <NUM> reach a front end <NUM> of each module rail guide <NUM>. A locking feature not illustrated in <FIG>, but described later below in this application, can be provided to prevent the fiber optic module <NUM> from extending beyond the front end <NUM> of the module rail guides <NUM> unless a release is engaged. In this manner, the fiber optic modules <NUM> can be installed from the rear of the chassis <NUM>, but can also be extended and removed from the front end <NUM> of the chassis <NUM> as well.

Also as illustrated in <FIG>, the fiber routing tray <NUM> is formed from sheet metal or other material that is bent on top of itself in a U-shape on a front end <NUM> of the fiber routing tray <NUM>. In this manner, optic fibers extending from the fiber optic modules <NUM> installed in the fiber optic equipment tray <NUM>, and in particular the module rail guides <NUM> disposed therein, can be routed underneath a lip section <NUM> contained in the fiber routing tray <NUM> and disposed to either end 48A, 48B of the fiber optic equipment tray <NUM> to be routed for connection to other fiber optic equipment.

<FIG> illustrates an example of a fiber optic module <NUM> that is supported in the fiber optic equipment tray <NUM> in <FIG>. As illustrated therein, the fiber optic module <NUM> is comprised of a number of fiber optic adapters <NUM> disposed on a front end <NUM> of the fiber optic module <NUM>. In this example, the fiber optic adapters <NUM> accept duplex LC fiber optic connectors <NUM>. However, any fiber optic connection type desired can be provided in the fiber optic modules <NUM>. Fiber optic cables (not shown) extend from the fiber optic connectors <NUM> to establish fiber optic connections with other equipment. Another fiber optic adapter <NUM> is disposed on a rear end <NUM> of the fiber optic module <NUM>. In this example, the fiber optic adapter <NUM> is an MTP fiber optic adapter equipped to establish connections to up to twelve (<NUM>) optical fibers. The fiber optic module <NUM> may also manage polarity between the fiber optic connectors <NUM> and the fiber optic adapters <NUM> disposed on the front end <NUM> of the fiber optic module <NUM> and the fiber optic adapter <NUM> disposed on the rear end <NUM> of the fiber optic module <NUM>.

Module rails 52A, 52B are disposed on each side 74A, 74B of the fiber optic module <NUM>. The module rails 52A, 52B are configured to be inserted within the channels <NUM> of the module rail guides <NUM> in the fiber optic equipment tray <NUM> as illustrated in <FIG>. In this manner, when it is desired to install the fiber optic module <NUM> in the fiber optic equipment tray <NUM>, the front end <NUM> of the fiber optic module <NUM> can be inserted from the rear section <NUM> of the chassis <NUM>. More specifically, the front end <NUM> of the fiber optic module <NUM> is inserted into the channels <NUM> of the module rail guides <NUM> at their rear ends <NUM>. In this manner, the fiber optic module <NUM> is rear-installable in the fiber optic equipment tray <NUM> and the chassis <NUM>. The fiber optic module <NUM> can then be pushed forward within the channels <NUM> until the fiber optic module <NUM> reaches the front end <NUM> of the module rail guides <NUM>. In this manner, a technician can install a fiber optic connection to the fiber optic adapter <NUM> disposed on the rear end <NUM> of the fiber optic module <NUM> and can then install the fiber optic module <NUM> from the rear section <NUM> of the chassis <NUM> into the fiber optic equipment tray <NUM>.

In this regard, <FIG> illustrates a rear perspective view of the fiber optic modules <NUM> installed in the fiber optic equipment trays <NUM> and the module rail guides <NUM> disposed therein. As illustrated therein, when the fiber optic module <NUM> is installed in the channels <NUM> of the module rail guides <NUM> from the rear section <NUM> of the chassis <NUM>, the module rails 52A, 52B of the fiber optic module <NUM> move towards the front end <NUM> within the channels <NUM>. The fiber optic module <NUM> can be moved towards the front end <NUM> until the fiber optic modules <NUM> reach a stop or locking feature disposed in the front end <NUM> as will described later in this application. A locking feature in the form of a locking latch <NUM> and a protrusion <NUM> (<FIG>) engage a complementary protrusion disposed in the tray channel <NUM> such that the fiber optic module <NUM>. The locking latch <NUM> is inwardly biased such that the fiber optic module <NUM> can be installed in the rail guides <NUM>, but cannot be pulled back towards the rear section <NUM> of the chassis <NUM> until the locking latch <NUM> is disengaged to prevent the protrusion <NUM> from engaging with the module rail guides <NUM>. The locking latch <NUM> is disengaged by pushing it inward towards the fiber optic module <NUM> to release the protrusion <NUM> from the channel <NUM>.

If it is desired to remove the fiber optic module <NUM> from the fiber optic equipment tray <NUM>, the fiber optic module <NUM> can be removed from either the rear section <NUM> of the chassis <NUM> or from the front end <NUM> of the chassis <NUM>. To remove the fiber optic module <NUM> from the rear section <NUM> of the chassis <NUM>, a pulling loop <NUM> disposed in the rear end <NUM> of the fiber optic module <NUM> can be pulled once the locking latch <NUM> is disengaged inward. The locking latch <NUM> controls the position of the protrusion <NUM> extending outward from the module rail 52A such that when the fiber optic module <NUM> is extended along a certain portion of the module rail guides <NUM>, the protrusion <NUM> prevents the fiber optic module <NUM> from moving backwards along the channels <NUM> towards the rear section <NUM> of the chassis <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates the fiber optic equipment tray <NUM> of <FIG>; however, with the rear-installable fiber optic modules <NUM> installed therein. The fiber optic modules <NUM> are installed in the module rail guides <NUM> disposed in the fiber optic equipment tray rails 82A, 82B. These fiber optic equipment tray rails 82A, 82B are configured to be disposed in the rail guides 32A, 32B attached to the chassis <NUM> as illustrated in <FIG> such that the fiber optic equipment tray <NUM> is translatable with respect to the chassis <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a front perspective view of the fiber optic equipment tray <NUM> in <FIG> in more detail. As illustrated therein, three (<NUM>) fiber optic equipment trays <NUM> are disposed within the tray rail guides 32A, 32B of the chassis <NUM>. As illustrated therein, the hinges 46A, 46B that hingedly attach the fiber routing tray <NUM> to the fiber optic equipment trays <NUM> are provided in the form of position hinges <NUM>. The position hinges <NUM> are configured to engage with the module rail guides <NUM> such that the fiber optic module <NUM> cannot be extended forward when the position hinges <NUM> are engaged. If it is desired to access the fiber optic module <NUM>, the pulling tab <NUM> attached to the fiber routing tray <NUM> can be pulled forward to cause the fiber optic equipment tray <NUM> to extend forward from the front end <NUM> of the chassis <NUM> as illustrated in <FIG>. Thereafter, the fiber routing tray <NUM> can be tilted downward as illustrated in <FIG>. When the fiber optic equipment tray <NUM> and its fiber routing tray <NUM> are tilted downward, the position hinges <NUM> on each side of the fiber optic equipment tray <NUM> are disengaged with the module rail guides <NUM> for that particular fiber optic equipment tray <NUM> such that the fiber optic modules <NUM> supported by that fiber optic equipment tray <NUM> can be removed from the front end <NUM> of the chassis <NUM>. Also, by allowing the fiber routing tray <NUM> to be tilted downward, unobstructed access can be obtained to the fiber optic module adapter <NUM> and fiber optic connectors <NUM> for establishing or disconnecting fiber optic connections.

In an example not according to the invention, a plurality of fiber optic modules can also be disposed in a module guide system in the fiber optic equipment without need or requirement for an intermediate fiber optic equipment tray. In this manner, each of the fiber optic modules translates independently of other fiber optic modules disposed within the module guide system. In this regard, <FIG> illustrates such an example of fiber optic equipment <NUM>. Fiber optic equipment <NUM> includes a module guide system disposed in a chassis <NUM> that supports rear-installable fiber optic modules. As will be described later in this application, the fiber optic equipment <NUM> provides an alternative guide system for rear-installable fiber optic modules. In <FIG>, fiber optic modules <NUM> are supported within module rail guides <NUM> disposed in a chassis <NUM> of the fiber optic equipment <NUM>. This is opposed to the fiber optic equipment <NUM> in <FIG>, wherein fiber optic modules are disposed in intermediate fiber optic equipment trays attached to a chassis. In this manner and as illustrated in <FIG>, the fiber optic equipment <NUM> allows fiber optic modules <NUM> to be inserted into module rail guides <NUM> disposed in the chassis <NUM> and independently translated about the module rail guides <NUM>.

Turning to <FIG>, a plurality of rear installable fiber optic modules <NUM> are installed in the fiber optic equipment <NUM>. The fiber optic modules <NUM> are supported by a plurality of module rail guides <NUM>. Unlike the fiber optic equipment <NUM> of <FIG>, the module rail guides <NUM> are attached directly to the chassis <NUM>. Fiber optic equipment trays <NUM> are still provided to support the forward translation of the fiber optic modules <NUM> from the fiber optic equipment <NUM>. As will be described later in this application, when the fiber optic modules <NUM> are installed from a rear section <NUM> of the chassis <NUM> into the module rail guides <NUM>. The fiber optic modules <NUM> can then be moved forward within the module rail guides <NUM> to a front end <NUM> of the chassis <NUM>. The fiber optic modules <NUM> will then engage with a latch (not shown) that will then attach the fiber optic modules <NUM> to fiber optic equipment trays <NUM>. In this manner, when the fiber optic equipment tray <NUM> is pulled forward from the chassis <NUM>, the fiber optic module <NUM> will also move outward with the fiber optic equipment tray <NUM> due to the interlock between the fiber optic modules <NUM> and the fiber optic equipment tray <NUM>, although is still supported by the module rail guides <NUM>. Thus, in the fiber optic equipment <NUM> in <FIG>, the fiber optic equipment trays <NUM> are independently movable with respect to the chassis <NUM>; however, the fiber optic modules <NUM> are not independently movable within the fiber optic equipment tray <NUM> like provided in the fiber optic equipment <NUM> of <FIG>.

The chassis <NUM> also comprises a first end <NUM> and a second end <NUM>, wherein the second end <NUM> is disposed on the opposite side from the first end <NUM>. A plurality of module rail guides <NUM> are disposed within the chassis <NUM> between the first end <NUM> and the second end <NUM>. A minimum of two (<NUM>) module rail guides <NUM> are required to support at least one (<NUM>) fiber optic module <NUM>. However, as illustrated in <FIG>, five (<NUM>) module rail guides <NUM> are provided to support four (<NUM>) fiber optic modules <NUM> per level. As will be described later in this application in more detail, the module rail guides <NUM> can contain a plurality of channels <NUM> to support more than one level or plane of fiber optic modules <NUM>. In the example of the fiber optic equipment <NUM> in <FIG>, three (<NUM>) levels of fiber optic modules <NUM> are provided; thus, three (<NUM>) channels <NUM> are provided in each module rail guide <NUM>. The fiber optic equipment trays <NUM> each contain a routing tray <NUM> that can be pulled in order to remove a fiber optic equipment tray <NUM> from the chassis <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a rear perspective view of the module rail guides <NUM> disposed within the chassis <NUM> and how the fiber optic module <NUM> is installed from the rear section <NUM> of the chassis <NUM>. Further, <FIG> illustrates how the fiber optic equipment trays <NUM> are also supported by the module rail guides <NUM> and how the fiber optic modules <NUM> attach to the fiber optic equipment trays <NUM> when pulled forward. As illustrated in <FIG>, the module rail guides <NUM> are provided wherein a fiber optic module <NUM> can be inserted from the rear section <NUM> into the channels <NUM>. The fiber optic module <NUM> can then be pushed forward with the module rail guides <NUM> towards the front end <NUM> of the chassis <NUM>. The module rail guides <NUM> also contain a series of tray guides <NUM> disposed in the plane substantially orthogonal to the channels <NUM> to receive fiber optic equipment trays <NUM>, although any orientation is possible.

As illustrated in <FIG>, the fiber optic equipment tray <NUM> contains a series of elongated sections <NUM>. The elongated sections <NUM> are configured to be inserted into the tray guides <NUM> disposed inside the module rail guides <NUM> along the longitudinal axis of the channels <NUM>. Thus, as illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, when the fiber optic module <NUM> is pulled all the way forward along the module rail guide <NUM> to a front portion <NUM> of the fiber optic equipment tray <NUM>, a locking feature in the form of a front module latch <NUM> interlocks with a detent feature <NUM> disposed adjacent the front end <NUM> of the chassis <NUM>. The detent feature <NUM> is secured to the fiber optic equipment tray <NUM>. In this manner, the fiber optic module <NUM> becomes interlocked with the fiber optic equipment tray <NUM> such that when the fiber optic equipment tray <NUM> is translated forward on the first end <NUM> of the chassis <NUM>, the fiber optic module <NUM> travels forward with the fiber optic equipment tray <NUM>. The elongated sections <NUM> and the fiber optic modules <NUM> interlocked with the fiber optic equipment tray <NUM> translate together about the tray guides <NUM> even though the fiber optic module <NUM> is still supported by the module rail guides <NUM>. <FIG> illustrates the fiber optic module <NUM> and more detail regarding the front module latch <NUM> in particular.

As illustrated in <FIG>, the fiber optic module <NUM> is comprised of a plurality of fiber optic adapters <NUM> configured to support fiber optic connectors <NUM> on a front end <NUM> of the fiber optic module <NUM>. A fiber optic adapter <NUM> is disposed on a rear end <NUM> of the fiber optic module <NUM>. In this example of the fiber optic module <NUM> of <FIG>, the fiber optic adapters <NUM> are duplex LC fiber optic adapters, and the fiber optic adapter <NUM> disposed in the rear end <NUM> of the fiber optic module <NUM> is an MTP fiber optic adapter, although any fiber connection type is possible. Fiber optic connections are established between the fiber optic connectors <NUM> and an MTP fiber optic connector <NUM> connected to the MTP fiber optic adapter <NUM>. Optical fibers establishing connections between the fiber optic adapters <NUM>, <NUM> are provided inside the fiber optic module <NUM>.

The fiber optic module <NUM> also contains two (<NUM>) module rails 144A, 144B on a first side <NUM> and a second side <NUM>, respectively, of the fiber optic module <NUM>. The module rails 144A, 144B are configured to be inserted into the channels <NUM> of the module rail guides <NUM> such that the fiber optic module <NUM> can be translated within the module rail guides <NUM>. In this regard, because the channels <NUM> in the module rail guides <NUM> are open in the rear section <NUM>, as illustrated in <FIG>, the fiber optic modules <NUM> are rear-installable into the fiber optic equipment <NUM>. The fiber optic module <NUM> can then be translated forward within the channels <NUM> until the front module latch <NUM> reaches the detent feature <NUM>. The front module latch <NUM> is biased inward such that when it reaches the detent feature <NUM>, the front module latch <NUM> flexes inward and is retained in the detent feature <NUM>. Once the front module latch <NUM> is retained in the detent feature <NUM>, the fiber optic module <NUM> cannot be pulled back towards the rear section <NUM> or towards the front end <NUM> independent of the fiber optic equipment tray <NUM> unless the front module latch <NUM> is released from the detent features <NUM>. In this manner, the front module latch <NUM> releasably retains the fiber optic module <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates the front module latch <NUM> for the fiber optic module <NUM> in more detail. <FIG> illustrates a locking feature in the form of a rear module lock <NUM> that may be provided in the rear end <NUM> of the fiber optic module <NUM> to lock the fiber optic module <NUM> within the module rail guides <NUM>. In this manner, the fiber optic module <NUM> cannot be removed towards the rear section <NUM> of the fiber optic equipment <NUM> unless the rear module lock <NUM> is unlocked by pushing a rear module lock button <NUM> to the right as illustrated. When the rear module lock button <NUM> is moved to the right as illustrated, a latch <NUM> is disengaged from the channel <NUM> of the module rail guide <NUM> such that the fiber optic module <NUM> can be removed from the rear section <NUM>. The fiber optic module <NUM> may be removed from the rear section <NUM> by pulling on a pulling loop <NUM> (as shown in <FIG>) attached to the rear end <NUM> of the fiber optic module <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrate the detent feature <NUM> and how the fiber optic equipment trays <NUM> are interlocked into the chassis <NUM>. As illustrated therein, the fiber optic equipment tray <NUM> contains an upwardly extending tab <NUM> that is secured to a bracket <NUM> wherein the bracket <NUM> is attached to the chassis <NUM>. The bracket <NUM> contains a series of apertures <NUM> that are adapted to receive flanges <NUM> from plungers <NUM>. Each fiber optic equipment tray <NUM> contains a plunger <NUM> disposed through the upwardly extending tab <NUM> that is adapted to engage with the aperture <NUM>. When it is desired to lock the fiber optic equipment tray <NUM> to the chassis <NUM>, the plunger <NUM> is engaged in the aperture <NUM>. As illustrated in <FIG>, three (<NUM>) apertures <NUM> are provided in the bracket <NUM> because three (<NUM>) fiber optic equipment trays <NUM> are provided. Each aperture <NUM> is designed to retain the upwardly extending tab <NUM> from a particular fiber optic equipment tray <NUM>. <FIG> illustrates the bracket <NUM> disposed on the second end <NUM> of the chassis <NUM>. Although not shown, the bracket <NUM> is also disposed on the first end <NUM> of the chassis <NUM> as illustrated in <FIG>. When it is desired to release the fiber optic equipment tray <NUM> from the chassis <NUM>, such as to pull it forward for access, the plunger <NUM> is pulled and disengaged from the corresponding aperture <NUM> in the bracket <NUM>. In this manner, each fiber optic equipment tray <NUM> is free to independently translate outwardly towards the front end <NUM> wherein the elongated sections <NUM> are moved forward about the tray guides <NUM> within the module rail guides <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a front perspective view of the fiber optic equipment <NUM> and the fiber optic modules <NUM> locked into the fiber optic equipment trays <NUM> via the front module latch <NUM> engaging with the detent feature <NUM>. As illustrated therein, each of the fiber optic equipment trays <NUM> are secured to the chassis <NUM> via their plungers <NUM> being engaged with the bracket <NUM>. In order to disengage the fiber optic equipment tray <NUM> from the chassis <NUM>, the plunger <NUM> is pulled to disengage the plunger <NUM> from the aperture <NUM> in the bracket <NUM>. In this manner, the pulling force applied towards the front end <NUM> will translate the fiber optic equipment tray <NUM> forward. This is illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>. <FIG> is a side cross-sectional view of the fiber optic equipment <NUM> shown in perspective view in <FIG> with a middle fiber optic equipment tray <NUM> extended. As illustrated therein, the middle fiber optic equipment tray <NUM> is extended from the chassis <NUM>. The plunger <NUM> for the middle fiber optic equipment tray <NUM> is disengaged from the bracket <NUM> and the aperture <NUM> therein.

<FIG> illustrates yet another example of fiber optic equipment <NUM>, not according to the invention, that also provides for rear-installable fiber optic modules. Like the fiber optic equipment <NUM> in <FIG>, each fiber optic module supported in the fiber optic equipment <NUM> of <FIG> is supported in module rails disposed in the chassis. The fiber optic modules are also independently translatable within the module rails.

As illustrated in <FIG>, the fiber optic equipment <NUM> is provided, which includes a chassis <NUM> configured to hold one or more fiber optic modules <NUM>. The fiber optic modules <NUM> are supported on a guide system in the form of module rail guides <NUM> that are disposed within and attached to the chassis <NUM> similar to the fiber optic equipment <NUM> in <FIG>. The module rail guides <NUM> are attached to the chassis <NUM>. Only two module rail guides <NUM> are required to be provided on a first end <NUM> of the chassis <NUM> and a second end <NUM> of the chassis <NUM> such that a fiber optic module <NUM> can be installed in a rear section <NUM> of the chassis <NUM> and moved along the module rail guides <NUM> to a front end <NUM> of the chassis <NUM>.

As will be described in further detail in this application, the module rail guides <NUM> contain one or more channels <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) that are adapted to receive rails (element <NUM> in <FIG>) disposed on each side of the fiber optic modules <NUM>. The channels <NUM> are open in the rear section <NUM> such that the rails of the fiber optic module <NUM> can be inserted into the module rail guides <NUM> in the rear section <NUM> of the chassis <NUM> and moved forward within the module rail guides <NUM> until the fiber optic module <NUM> reaches the front end <NUM> of the chassis <NUM>. This is further illustrated in <FIG>. As illustrated therein, a fiber optic module <NUM> is shown as being inserted partially into the module rail guides <NUM>. Module rails 215A, 215B are disposed on each side of the fiber optic module <NUM> such that the module rails 215A, 215B mate with the channels <NUM> in the module rail guides <NUM> so that the fiber optic module <NUM> may be slid from the rear section <NUM> to the front end <NUM> of the chassis <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrate more detail regarding the module rail guides <NUM> that are disposed in the fiber optic equipment <NUM> of <FIG> and <FIG>. As illustrated therein, a module rail guide <NUM> is disclosed that is provided between the first end <NUM> and the second end <NUM>. For this type of module rail guide <NUM>, the channels <NUM> are disposed on a first side <NUM> of the module rail guides <NUM>. Channels <NUM> are also provided on a second side <NUM> of the module rail guides <NUM>. In this manner, the module rail guide <NUM> can support rails of fiber optic modules <NUM> on each side. The module rail guide <NUM> illustrated in <FIG> would be provided as an intermediate module rail guide if more than one fiber optic module <NUM> in a given plane is supported by the fiber optic equipment <NUM>. In this case, at least one intermediate module rail guide <NUM> is provided with channels <NUM>, <NUM> disposed on each side <NUM>, <NUM>. As illustrated in <FIG>, the module rail guide <NUM> is attached to the chassis <NUM> such that when the module rails 215A, 215B of the fiber optic modules <NUM> are disposed within the channels <NUM>, <NUM>, the fiber optic modules <NUM> are supported by the chassis <NUM>. Also, as will be described in greater detail below with regard to <FIG>, the module rail guides <NUM> also contain a series of internal apertures <NUM> that support attaching module locks or stops to the chassis <NUM>. The module locks or stops prevent the fiber optic modules <NUM> from translating beyond the front end <NUM> of the chassis <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates the rear-installable fiber optic module <NUM> that is adapted to be supported by the module rail guides <NUM> of the fiber optic equipment <NUM>. As illustrated therein, module rails 215A, 215B are disposed on sides <NUM>, <NUM>, respectively, of the fiber optic module <NUM>. These module rails 215A, 215B can be inserted into the module rail guides <NUM> to insert the fiber optic module <NUM> into the fiber optic equipment <NUM>. Because the channels <NUM> in the module rail guides <NUM> are open in the rear section <NUM> of the chassis <NUM>, the fiber optic modules <NUM> are rear-installable, meaning they can be installed from the rear section <NUM> of the chassis <NUM>. The fiber optic module <NUM> contains a series of fiber optic adapters <NUM> disposed on a front end <NUM> of the fiber optic module <NUM>. One or more fiber optic adapters <NUM> optically connected to the fiber optic adapters <NUM> are disposed on a rear end <NUM> of the fiber optic module <NUM>. In this manner, connectorized fiber optic cables (not shown) connected to the fiber optic adapters <NUM> establish a fiber optic connection with fiber optic cables (not shown) installed in the fiber optic adapters <NUM> in the rear end <NUM> of the fiber optic module <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a front view of the fiber optic equipment <NUM> with fiber optic modules <NUM> installed in the module rail guides <NUM> as previously described. To prevent the fiber optic modules <NUM> from extending beyond the first end <NUM> of the chassis <NUM>, stop or lock features <NUM> are disposed between the rows of fiber optic modules <NUM> on the intermediate module rail guides <NUM>. <FIG> illustrates the stop or lock features <NUM> in more detail wherein front and rear perspective views are illustrated. The stop or lock features <NUM> contain a series of apertures <NUM> that align with the apertures <NUM> disposed in the module rail guides <NUM> as illustrated previously in <FIG>. A fastener (not shown) can be inserted into the apertures <NUM> to fasten the stop or lock features <NUM> to the module rail guides <NUM>. The stop features <NUM> contain opposing flared portions <NUM> on each side of the stop or lock feature <NUM> which contain platforms <NUM> of which the front end <NUM> of the fiber optic modules <NUM> abut against to prevent the fiber optic modules <NUM> from extending forward from the first end <NUM> of the chassis <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a top view of the fiber optic equipment <NUM> with the fiber optic module <NUM> installed therein between two module rail guides <NUM>. As illustrated therein, the fiber optic module <NUM> is extended forward to the front end <NUM> of the chassis <NUM> wherein the front end <NUM> of the fiber optic module <NUM> abut against the platforms <NUM> in the stop or lock features <NUM> to prevent the fiber optic modules <NUM> from being extended beyond the front end <NUM> of the fiber optic equipment <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates yet another example of fiber optic equipment not according to the invention that is configured to allow and support rear-installable fiber optic modules. As illustrated in <FIG>, the fiber optic equipment <NUM> contains a chassis <NUM> that supports one or more fiber optic modules <NUM>. The fiber optic modules <NUM> are supported by a guide system in the form of module rail guides <NUM> that are attached to the chassis <NUM> such that each of the fiber optic modules <NUM> can translate about the module rail guides <NUM>. More specifically, the fiber optic modules <NUM> can be rear-installable from a rear section <NUM> of the chassis <NUM> into the module rail guides <NUM> and extended forward within the module rail guides <NUM> to a front end <NUM> of the chassis <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a rear perspective view of the fiber optic equipment <NUM> illustrated in <FIG> showing a series of rear-installable fiber optic modules <NUM> installed therein. It is noted that the module rail guides <NUM> can be provided that support more than one plane or row of fiber optic modules <NUM>. In such a case, a plurality of channels will be provided in the module rail guides <NUM> to support more than one row of fiber optic modules <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates the fiber optic module <NUM> illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG> in more detail. As illustrated therein, the fiber optic module <NUM> contains module rails 312A, 312B disposed on each side <NUM>, <NUM> of the fiber optic module <NUM>. The module rails 312A, 312B are adapted to be received into channels of the module rail guides <NUM> to support the fiber optic modules <NUM>. Each fiber optic module <NUM> is independently movable about the module rail guides <NUM>. Intermediate fiber optic equipment trays are not provided. The fiber optic module <NUM> contains a series of fiber optic adapters <NUM> disposed on a front end <NUM> of the fiber optic module <NUM>. A series of fiber optic connectors <NUM> may be connected to the fiber optic adapters <NUM> to establish fiber optic connections. A fiber optic adapter <NUM> is disposed in a rear end <NUM> of the fiber optic module <NUM> such that a fiber optic connector <NUM> connected to the fiber optic adapter <NUM> will establish an optical connection with optical fibers connected to the fiber optic connectors <NUM>. The fiber optic module <NUM> also contains a series of pulling loops 328A, 328B disposed on each side of the fiber optic adapter <NUM> that may assist in removing the fiber optic module <NUM> from the rear section <NUM> of the fiber optic equipment <NUM>.

In order to install a fiber optic module <NUM> from the rear section <NUM> of the fiber optic equipment <NUM>, as illustrated in <FIG>, hinged portions 330A, 330B of the rear section <NUM> of the chassis <NUM> are pulled outward such that the module rail guides <NUM> are accessible to a technician. Thereafter, the fiber optic module <NUM> and its module rails 312A, 312B are inserted into channels in the module rail guides <NUM> as illustrated in <FIG>. The fiber optic module <NUM> is then pushed forward within the module rail guides <NUM> until the fiber optic module <NUM> reaches the front end <NUM> of the chassis <NUM>. Once the fiber optic modules <NUM> are installed as desired, the hinged portions 330A, 330B are closed.

In order to access the fiber optic connectors <NUM> of the fiber optic modules <NUM>, a module guide tray <NUM>, which is hingedly attached via hinges to the module rail guides <NUM>, can be pulled forward and tilted downward as illustrated in <FIG>. Each fiber optic module <NUM> has its own module guide tray <NUM> such that each fiber optic module <NUM> is individually accessible and independently movable about the module rail guides <NUM>. The module guide tray <NUM> may contain a series of fiber routing guides <NUM> that support routing of connectorized fiber optic cables (not shown) connected to the fiber optic adapters <NUM> of the fiber optic module <NUM>. <FIG> illustrates a side perspective view illustrating more detail regarding the module guide tray <NUM>. The module guide tray <NUM> is pulled forward and hingably tilted via hinge <NUM> downward to access the fiber optic adapters <NUM> of the fiber optic modules <NUM>. The module guide tray <NUM> may contain a U-shaped flange <NUM> to allow optical fibers to be routed therein to either the left or right of the tray to the sides <NUM>, <NUM> of the chassis <NUM>. Further, a handle <NUM> may be provided and attached to the module guide tray <NUM> to allow for pulling and pushing for easy translation of the fiber optic module <NUM>.

Claim 1:
A fiber optic apparatus, comprising:
a chassis (<NUM>) defining a front end (<NUM>), a rear section (<NUM>), a first end (<NUM>), and a second end (<NUM>) opposite the first end (<NUM>); and
at least one guide system disposed within the chassis (<NUM>) and configured to receive fiber optic modules (<NUM>) from the rear section of the chassis (<NUM>) and guide the fiber optic modules (<NUM>) toward the front end (<NUM>) of the chassis (<NUM>);
wherein:
the at least one guide system is comprised of module rail guides (<NUM>) with channels (<NUM>) disposed within the module rail guides (<NUM>) configured to receive the fiber optic modules (<NUM>);
the fiber optic apparatus further comprises a plurality of fiber optic equipment trays arranged in a column format wherein the module rail guides are disposed on the fiber optic equipment trays to receive the fiber optic modules;
wherein
the channels (<NUM>) of the module rail guides (<NUM>) are open at their rear end (<NUM>) so that the fiber optic modules can be installed from the rear of the chassis (<NUM>);
wherein
the fiber optic apparatus includes a module stop or locking feature disposed adjacent the front end of the chassis, which stop or locking feature is configured to engage with a corresponding stop or locking feature at the modules to prevent the fiber optic modules (<NUM>) from extending from the front end (<NUM>) of the chassis when the fiber optic equipment trays are not extended unless the engagement between the stop or locking features is released, so that the fiber optic modules (<NUM>) can also be extended and removed from the front end (<NUM>) of the chassis (<NUM>);
the fiber optic apparatus being characterised in that the guide system also comprises tray rail guides receiving the fiber optic equipment trays from the front of the chassis and being provided with a rear stop wherein each of the plurality of fiber optic equipment trays is independently translatable within the chassis.