Patent Description:
In fiber optic networks, fiber optic cables may be connected to various fiber optic assemblies (e.g., hardware, housings, enclosures, etc.). The fiber optic cables may require a strain relief at the various fiber optic assemblies to limit or prevent axial torsion of the fiber optic cable. Additionally, when the fiber optic assemblies are exposed to potentially harsh environments, e.g. outdoor assemblies, the fiber optic assemblies may include a seal configured to protect the internal components of the fiber optic assemblies and limit entrance of water and/or debris.

Generally, a strain relief for fiber optic cable is provided by attaching a strength member of the fiber optic cable, such as aramid yarn, e.g. Kevlar®, to the fiber optic assembly. One method of attaching the aramid yarn is to clamp the aramid yarn between a plastic element and another element, such as a cable tie or metal plate. Another method of attaching the aramid yarn is to braid the aramid yarn around a plastic feature or itself to create a knot. In some cases, both methods may be utilized, such as by braiding, e.g. knotting, the aramid yarn and then clamping or affixing, the aramid yarn. The elements used for braiding and clamping the aramid yarn may be small and, therefore, difficult to handle or use. Further, the methods themselves may require significant manual dexterity to braid and/or clamp the aramid yarn.

One common method of sealing of a fiber optic assembly relies on cable grommets or glands that are fit over a jacket of the fiber optic cable and fit into a cable port. Another method includes compressing cables between elastic materials, such as gels or rubber. Still further methods utilize a vertical slit foam cube, into which cables are slid into the slit from the top of the foam cube. Each of these methods has a limited range of fiber optic cable dimeters that can be serviced by a given seal. This may be especially true of gel or rubber compression seals, that may form a gap on either side of a fiber optic cable if the cable is too large for the given seal. Some cable seals, such as grommets and cable glands may require the cable to be pulled through the seal, which may increase installation time and complexity. Vertical cut foam cube seals may be highly sensitive to misalignment in installation, which may result in improper cable sealing and entrance of water or debris into the fiber optic cable assembly.

<CIT> discloses a device for securing and retaining an optical cable, said optical cable comprising optical fiber units, flexible strength members and an outer sheath, said device comprising: a reel configured to receive at least one turn of said strength members, and a clip configured to cooperate with said reel for maintaining said at least one turn of said strength members around said reel.

<CIT> discloses fiber optic enclosures employing clamping assemblies for strain relief cables and related assemblies and methods. The fiber optic enclosures may be part of a fiber optic terminal in a fiber optic network. The fiber optic enclosures may include openings in the walls of the fiber optic enclosure. A cable fitting assembly may be attached to a portion of the wall around an opening to form a passageway for fiber optic cables to enter the fiber optic enclosure. An elongated member may be used to guide the fiber optic cables through the passageway. The elongated member may have a first end and second end. The elongated member may include a clamping assembly at the first end to provide strain relief to the fiber optic cables by clamping strength members of the fiber optic cables.

<CIT> discloses an optical fiber connector including a housing with a terminus-holding housing portion that holds a plurality of optical fiber termini with optical cables trailing therefrom. A pair of metal sleeves are crimped to the strength member of each optical cable to form a crimp sleeve assembly. The housing including a holder with a plurality of channels that each removably holds one of the sleeve assemblies. This arrangement enables a selected one of a plurality of optical fiber cables with termini fixed thereto, to be easily removed from the rest of the housing, and to allow a new optical fiber cable with a terminus and crimp sleeve assembly thereon to be installed in its place.

<CIT> discloses a sealed closure having modular components, enhanced cable sealing, modular connection interfaces, enhanced cable anchoring and enhanced fiber management.

In an example embodiment, a cable port seal and strain relief assembly is provided. The strain relief includes a body defining a sidewall, a cable passthrough disposed in the body from a first end to a second end, and a cable slot disposed through sidewall enabling a fiber optic cable to be inserted into the cable passthrough therethrough. A plurality of hooks are disposed on an exterior surface of the sidewall. The hooks are configured to resist movement of a strength member, e.g. aramid yarn, of the fiber optic cable, when the strength member is wrapped around the body. A strain relief receiver may be provided in connection with a fiber optic housing of a fiber optic assembly. The strain relief receiver may be configured to retain the cable strain relief in a mounted position relative to the fiber optic housing, when the cable strain relief is installed thereon.

The strain relief may be attached to the fiber optic cable outside of the of the fiber optic assembly and simply pushed into the strain relief receiver. This greatly reduces the complexity and required dexterity of installation, which may, in turn, increase the speed of installation.

The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding, and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings are illustrative of selected aspects of the present description, and together with the specification explain principles and operation of methods, products, and compositions embraced by the present description. Features shown in the drawing are illustrative of selected embodiments of the present description and are not necessarily depicted in proper scale.

While the specification concludes with claims particularly pointing out and distinctly claiming the subject matter of the written description, it is believed that the specification will be better understood from the following written description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The claimed invention is illustrated in <FIG>. The remaining figures are not part of the claimed invention.

The embodiments set forth in the drawings are illustrative in nature and not intended to be limiting of the scope of the detailed description or claims. Whenever possible, the same reference numeral will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like features. The drawings are not necessarily to scale for ease of illustration an explanation.

Optical fibers are useful in a wide variety of applications, including the telecommunications industry for voice, video, and data transmissions. The benefits of optical fiber are well known and include higher signal-to-noise ratios and increased bandwidth compared to conventional copper-based transmission technologies. To meet modern demands for increased bandwidth and improved performance, telecommunication networks are increasingly providing optical fiber connectivity closer to end subscribers. These initiatives include fiber-to-the-node (FTTN), fiber-to-the-premises (FTTP), fiber-to-the-home (FTTH), and the like (generally described as FTTx).

In an FTTx network, fiber optic cables are used to carry optical signals to various distribution points and, in some cases, all the way to end subscribers. For example, <FIG> is a schematic diagram of an exemplary FTTx network <NUM> that distributes optical signals generated at a switching point <NUM> (e.g., a central office of a network provider) to subscriber premises <NUM>. Optical line terminals (OLTs; not shown) at the switching point <NUM> convert electrical signals to optical signals. Fiber optic feeder cables <NUM> then carry the optical signals to various local convergence points <NUM>, which act as locations for splicing and making cross-connections and interconnections. The local convergence points <NUM> often include splitters to enable any given optical fiber in the fiber optic feeder cable <NUM> to serve multiple subscriber premises <NUM>. As a result, the optical signals are "branched out" from the optical fibers of the fiber optic feeder cables <NUM> to optical fibers of distribution cables <NUM> that exit the local convergence points <NUM>.

At network access points closer to the subscriber premises <NUM>, some or all of the optical fibers in the distribution cables <NUM> may be accessed to connect to one or more subscriber premises <NUM>. Drop cables <NUM> extend from the network access points to the subscriber premises <NUM>, which may be single-dwelling units (SDU), multi-dwelling units (MDU), businesses, and/or other facilities or buildings. A SDU or MDU terminal may be disposed at the subscriber premises <NUM>. A conversion of optical signals back to electrical signals may occur at the network access points or at the subscriber premises <NUM>.

There are many different network architectures, and the various tasks required to distribute optical signals (e.g., splitting, splicing, routing, connecting subscribers) can occur at several locations. Regardless of whether a location is considered a switching point, local convergence point, network access point, subscriber premise, or something else, fiber optic equipment is used to house components that carry out one or more of the tasks. The fiber optic equipment may be assemblies that include connectors, splitters, splices, or the like. The term "fiber optic assembly" will be used in this disclosure to generically refer to such equipment (or at least portions thereof). In some instances such equipment is located at a terminal at the subscriber premises <NUM> in an FTTx network, although this disclosure is not limited to any particular intended use. Further, although an FTTx network <NUM> is shown in <FIG>, the same considerations apply with respect to other types of telecommunication networks or environments, such data centers and other enterprise network environments.

2A illustrates an example fiber optic assembly <NUM>. In the provided example, the fiber optic assembly <NUM> is an multiple dwelling unit (MDU) terminal, that may be deployed at a subscriber premises <NUM>. The fiber optic assembly <NUM> may include a housing having a back or base portion <NUM> and a cover portion <NUM>. The base portion <NUM> and cover portion <NUM> may define an interior volume in which one or more fiber optic components may be disposed and protected from the external environment. In some example embodiments, the base portion <NUM> and the cover portion <NUM> may be connected by a hinge to enable access to the interior volume of the fiber optic assembly <NUM>. The fiber optic assembly <NUM> may include one or more input cables <NUM> and may include one or more output cables <NUM>.

The fiber optic assembly <NUM> may include a cable seal and strain relief assembly to provide an environmental seal for the housing and limit axial torsion applied to the input cables <NUM> or output cables <NUM>, as discussed below in reference to <FIG>. The cable seal and strain relief assembly may include a cable port seal <NUM> and a cable strain relief <NUM>. Although discussed herein as an assembly, the cable port seal <NUM> may be utilized with other strain relief solutions. Likewise, the cable strain relief <NUM> may be utilized with other methods of environmentally sealing the fiber optic assembly <NUM>. Additionally, the MDU provided in FIG. 2A is merely for illustrative purposes, the cable port seal and/or the cable strain reliefs described herein may be utilized in any fiber optic assembly, including local convergence points (LCP), SDU terminals, or the like.

<FIG> illustrates a perspective view of a modular cable port seal and strain relief system. The cable port seals 200A and 200B, described below, may be interchanged based on the intended application to accommodate drop cables, cable bundles, a plurality of fiber optic cables, or individual fiber optic cables. Similarly, strain reliefs <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may also be interchanged based on the size, type, or number of fiber optic cables including a fiber optic cable strain relief <NUM> that is held in a strain relief receiver <NUM>, a pressure fit strain relief <NUM>, and/or a cable bundle strain relief <NUM>. The pressure fit strain relief <NUM> may include a plurality of fingers, or a comb, and a fiber optical cable may be pushed into the comb at the distal ends of the fingers and resist axial movement, due to pressure exerted on the fiber optic cable by the fingers. In an example embodiment, the fingers may be about <NUM> apart. The pressure fit strain relief <NUM> may be advantageous when a Pixian, or butterfly, cable is utilized. The fiber optic cable strain relief <NUM> and the cable bundle strain relief <NUM> are discussed in further detail below.

<FIG> illustrates example cable port seals according to two example embodiments. The cable port seal <NUM> may be an individual cable port seal 200A may be configured to enable a plurality of individual fiber optic cables to pass from the exterior to the interior of the fiber optic assembly <NUM>. Alternatively, the cable port seal <NUM> may be a bundle cable port seal 200B configured to enable a plurality of cables arranged in a cable bundle or a larger diameter cable, such as a drop cable to pass from the exterior to the interior of the fiber optic assembly <NUM>. An example individual cable port seal 200A is described below in reference to <FIG>. An example bundle cable port seal 200B is described below in reference to <FIG>. Although, a single cable bundle is described below in reference to the bundle cable port seal, one of ordinary skill in the art would immediately appreciate that a bundle cable port seal may configured to enable a plurality of cable bundles to pass from the exterior to the interior of the fiber optic assembly <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrate an assembled view and an exploded view of an example individual cable port seal 200A, respectively. The fiber optic assembly <NUM> may have a cable port <NUM>, e.g. a fiber optic cable port, disposed in a sidewall of the housing. A cable port seal <NUM> may be inserted into the cable port <NUM> to seal the cable port <NUM>, and thereby the internal volume from the external environment. In some example embodiments, the housing may have a seating or sealing surface <NUM> disposed at an edge of the base portion <NUM> and/or cover portion <NUM>. The cable port seal 200A may include a seating or sealing surface <NUM> configured to continue the seating or sealing surface <NUM> over the area of the cable port <NUM>, when the cable port seal 200A is installed therein. Additionally or alternatively, the cable port <NUM> may include a channel <NUM> disposed about a periphery of the cable port <NUM> configured to receive the cable port seal <NUM> therein. In an example embodiment, the channel <NUM> may be generally U-shaped.

The individual cable port seal 200A may include one or more seal segments 202A, 202B. As depicted in <FIG>, each seal segment <NUM> includes a sealing component <NUM> formed of a deformable material and a first and second compression element <NUM> configured to compress the sealing component in a first direction. The deformable material may comprise rubber, a foam, a foam rubber, or other deformable materials suitable to enable a seal around a fiber optic cable. In an example embodiment, the deformable material may be ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber, e.g. EPDM sponge rubber. The EPDM rubber may be closed or semi-closed cell.

The first and second compression elements <NUM> may include a sidewall <NUM> configured to compress the sealing component <NUM> therebetween. Each of the first and second compression elements <NUM> may include a connection features <NUM> configured to couple the first and second compression elements <NUM> to one another. For example, the connection features <NUM> may be tab and slot connectors (as shown), snap fit connectors, or other suitable connector to couple the first and second compression elements <NUM>. In some example embodiments, the first and second compression elements <NUM> may be substantially the same, thereby reducing the number of different parts for manufacturing. In such an example, the first and second compression element <NUM> may include connection features <NUM> that correspond to each other when oriented toward the opposite. In the example depicted in <FIG> the first and second compression elements <NUM> include a slot 210A disposed in a first position and a pair of opposing tabs 210B disposed in a second position. When the first and second compression elements <NUM> are oriented with the connection features <NUM> facing inward, the slots 201A are aligned with the tabs 201B of the opposing compression element <NUM>. Additionally or alternatively, the second position may also include one or more alignment features 201C configured to align the tabs 210B with the slots 210A.

In some example embodiments, the sealing component <NUM> may include a pocket aperture <NUM> disposed through the sealing component <NUM>. The connection features <NUM> may be configured to pass through the pocket aperture <NUM> when coupled to each other. In an example embodiment, the dimensions of the pocket aperture <NUM> may be smaller than the outer dimensions of the connection features <NUM>, such that the sealing component <NUM> forms a seal about the connection features <NUM>, when the compression elements <NUM> are coupled therethrough.

In an example embodiment, the compression elements <NUM> may include a pivot <NUM> disposed between the connection features <NUM> and the sidewall <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the pivot <NUM> may enable deflection of the sidewall <NUM> toward and away from the sealing component <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the compression elements <NUM> may be formed from a molded material, such as injection molded plastic. The pivot <NUM> may be a relatively thin extrusion of material between the sidewall <NUM> and the connection features <NUM>. In a neutral position, the sidewalls <NUM> of the compression elements <NUM> may have a generally V-Shaped, or wedge shaped, cross-sectional geometry when coupled together, as illustrated by lines A. The sidewalls <NUM> may be deflected inward about the pivot <NUM>, by an inward compressive force, e.g. a pinching force, being applied toward each other in direction B.

Turning back to <FIG>, the sidewalls <NUM> of the compression elements <NUM> may include one or more locking features <NUM> configured to engage a corresponding capture feature <NUM> disposed in the cable port <NUM>, such that the capture feature <NUM> resists movement of the compression elements <NUM>, and thereby seal segments <NUM>, out of the cable port <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the capture features <NUM> may include an indent in the channel <NUM> of the cable port <NUM>. The locking feature <NUM> may include a substantially flat top surface disposed at least one end of the sidewalls <NUM>. The substantially flat top surface may engage the indent of the capture feature <NUM> to resist movement out of the cable port <NUM>. The compression elements <NUM> may be pinched, as discussed above, to move the sidewalls <NUM> and therefore locking feature <NUM> about the pivot <NUM> to a release position, in which the locking features <NUM> are not aligned with the capture features <NUM> enabling the seal segment <NUM> to be removed from the cable port <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the channel <NUM> include a segment guide that applies force to the locking features <NUM> as the seal segments <NUM> are inserted, to move the locking features <NUM> to the release position as the locking features <NUM> pass the capture features <NUM>. When the locking features <NUM> pass the capture features <NUM>, the sidewalls <NUM> may return to a neutral position, in which the locking features <NUM> are engaged with the capture features <NUM>. In other words, the locking features <NUM> are configured to snap fit as the seal segments <NUM> are inserted into the cable port <NUM> past the capture features <NUM>.

In some example embodiments, the sealing component <NUM> may include one or more cable alignment channels <NUM>. The cable alignment channels <NUM> may provide a shallow trough to assist in aligning a fiber optic cable across the sealing component <NUM>. Similarly, the compression elements <NUM> may include one or more cable guide apertures <NUM> configured to align the fiber optic cables across the sealing component <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the cable guide apertures <NUM> include an opening configured to receive the fiber optic cable in a first direction and resist the fiber optic cable in a second direction. For example, the cable guide apertures <NUM> may include one or more barbs positioned to enable the fiber optic cable to pass into the cable guide aperture <NUM> and resist the removal therefrom.

Returning to <FIG>, one or more seal segments <NUM> may be inserted into the cable port <NUM>. A second sealing component <NUM> and cap <NUM> may be inserted on top of the seal segments <NUM>. The cap <NUM> may be substantially planar and include one or more user interface elements <NUM>. The user interface elements <NUM> may include locking features <NUM> substantially similar to the locking features <NUM> discussed above in regard to the sidewalls <NUM>. The locking features <NUM> may be disposed at one or more ends of a user interface element <NUM>. A deflection element may be disposed between the planar cap <NUM> and the user interface element <NUM>, such as a U-shaped extrusion. The U-shaped extrusion may enable the user interface element <NUM> and thereby the locking features <NUM> to deflect inward to a release position.

The cap <NUM> may compress the second sealing component <NUM> against the upper surface of the sealing component <NUM> of the second seal segment 202B in a second direction, when installed in the cable port <NUM>. The second compression direction may be substantially perpendicular to the direction of the compressive force applied by the first and second compression elements <NUM>. The bottom surface of the sealing component <NUM> of the second seal segment 202B may be compressed against the upper surface of the first seal segment 202A, in a manner similar to the second sealing component <NUM> and the sealing component <NUM> of the second seal segment 202B. Further, the compression of the sealing components <NUM> of the first and second seal segments 202A, 202B and the second sealing component <NUM>, in both the first and second direction, may cause the sealing components <NUM> of the first and second seal segments 202A, 202B to expand outward in the cable port <NUM> filling the channel <NUM> and creating an environmental seal. In some embodiments, the environmental seal may be rated to international, or ingress, protection (IP) rating <NUM> or better.

<FIG> illustrates a first seal segment 202A being inserted into a cable port <NUM>. More particularly, the first seal segment 202A is being inserted into a channel <NUM> disposed in the cable port <NUM>. At <FIG>, the first seal segment 202A has been inserted into the channel <NUM> until the locking features <NUM> engage the capture features <NUM>. In this position the sealing component <NUM> of the first seal segment 202A is in contact with the bottom of the channel <NUM>. In <FIG>, the process is repeated by inserting the second seal segment 202B into to the channel <NUM>. The locking features <NUM> of the second seal segment 202B engage the corresponding capture features <NUM> in the channel <NUM>, seating the bottom surface of the sealing component <NUM> of the second seal segment 202B on the upper surface of the sealing component <NUM> of the first seal segment 202A thereby compressing the seal segments 202A, 202B against each other and the channel <NUM>. In <FIG>, a second sealing component <NUM> and a cap <NUM> may be inserted into the channel <NUM>. The locking features <NUM> of the cap <NUM> may engage the capture features <NUM>. The cap <NUM> may compress the bottom surface of the second sealing component <NUM> into the upper surface of the sealing component <NUM> of the second seal segment 202B, as illustrated in <FIG>. The compression in the first direction, applied by the compression elements <NUM> to their respective sealing components <NUM> and the compression in the second direction, perpendicular to the first direction, applied by the seal segments 202A, 202B and cap <NUM> installation causes an environmental seal between the seal segments 202A, 202B and second sealing component <NUM>. The compression in the first and second direction also provides an environmental seal between the seal segments 202A, 202B, second sealing component <NUM>, and cap <NUM> and the cable port <NUM>.

<FIG> and <FIG> illustrate removal of a seal segment 202A according to an example embodiment. A compressive force may be applied to either side of the seal segment <NUM> as illustrated by arrows C. The compressive force, e.g. pinch force, may cause the sidewalls <NUM> and associated locking features <NUM> to move to the release position about the pivot <NUM>. The locking features <NUM> may disengage the capture features <NUM> in the release position, thereby allowing the seal segment <NUM> to be removed from the channel <NUM>, as illustrated by arrow D.

<FIG> illustrates a group of individual fiber optic cables <NUM> installed in to cable guide apertures <NUM> of a first seal segment 202A, which is turn installed in a channel <NUM> of a cable port <NUM>. <FIG> illustrates a second seal segment 202B installed in the channel <NUM>. The second seal segment 202B applies a compressive force to the sealing component <NUM> of the second seal segment 202B and the sealing component <NUM> of the first seal segment 202A. The compressive force causes deformation of the sealing components <NUM> around the fiber optic cable <NUM> generating an environmental seal. The sealing components <NUM> may be configured to deform round a range of cable diameters, such as <NUM>-<NUM>, and/or cable types, such as round, squared, butterfly (e.g., "Pixian"), or the like, to generate the environmental seal. <FIG> illustrates a second group of individual fiber optic cables <NUM> installed in to cable guide apertures <NUM> of a second seal segment 202B and the second sealing component <NUM> and cap <NUM> installed in the channel <NUM>. The cap <NUM> applies a compressive force between the sealing component <NUM> of the second seal segment 202B and the second sealing component <NUM>. The compressive force causes deformation of the sealing component <NUM> and the second sealing component <NUM> around the second group of fiber optic cables <NUM> generating an environmental seal.

<FIG> illustrate an example bundle cable port seal 200B. The bundle cable port seal 200B may be substantially similar to the individual cable port seal 200A, discussed above, with some accommodations for a larger diameter cable, such as a drop cable, or bundle of cables. In an example embodiment, the bundle cable port seal 200B may include a single seal segment 202C. The seal segment 202C may include a sealing component <NUM> with a larger volume enabling increased deformation around a drop cable or bundle of cables. Similarly, the volume of the second sealing component <NUM> may also be increased in a manner similar to the sealing component <NUM> of the seal segment 202C. In some example embodiment, the cable guide apertures <NUM>' of the compression elements <NUM> may be of a larger diameter to align the drop cable of bundle of cables.

In some example embodiments, the locking features <NUM> associated with the cap <NUM>' and/or the user interface elements <NUM> may be elongated in the direction of the channel <NUM> to enable the locking features <NUM> to engage capture features <NUM> deeper into the channel <NUM>. For example, the seal segment 202C may be configured such that the locking features <NUM> of the seal segment 202C engage the capture features <NUM> of the cable port <NUM> that are utilized by the first seal segment 202A of the individual cable port seal 200A. The elongated locking features <NUM> for the cap <NUM>' of the bundle cable port seal 200B may be configured to engage the capture features <NUM> utilized by the second seal segment 202B in the individual cable port seal 200A.

<FIG> illustrates a seal segment 202C of a bundle cable port seal 200B inserted into a cable port <NUM>. In <FIG> a bundle of fiber optic cables <NUM> is placed in the cable guide aperture <NUM>' across the sealing component <NUM>. In <FIG>, the second sealing component <NUM> and cap <NUM>' are installed in the cable port <NUM>. The cap <NUM>' applies a compressive force to the second sealing component <NUM> and the sealing component <NUM> of the seal segment <NUM>, such that each deforms around the bundle of fiber optic cables <NUM> to generate an environmental seal around the bundle of fiber optic cables.

<FIG> and <FIG> illustrate a cable port seal 200C configured to receive a plurality of fiber optic cables similar to the individual cable port seal 200A. However, the cable port seal 200C includes a monolithic sealing component <NUM>'. The sealing component <NUM>' may include a plurality of cable apertures <NUM>, through which one or more fiber optic cables may be passed. Additionally, the sealing component <NUM>' may include one or more pocket apertures <NUM>'. The pocket apertures <NUM>' may be disposed proximate to the top edge, e.g. the portion facing out of the channel <NUM>, of the sealing component <NUM>'. The cap <NUM> may not be necessary in this configuration, as the connection features <NUM>' of the compression elements apply compressive force in the second direction to the monolithic sealing component <NUM>', while the compression elements <NUM>' apply the compressive force in the first direction. In some example embodiments, the compression elements <NUM> may include sidewall fingers <NUM> instead of the full sidewalls, discussed above in reference to the individual cable port seal 200A. The sidewall fingers <NUM> may enable a greater range of cable diameters and placement configurations. Similar to the cap <NUM>' of the bundle cable port seal 200B, one or both of the compression elements <NUM>' may include locking features <NUM>' and/or deep locking features <NUM>' configured to engage the capture features <NUM> of the cable port <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the compression elements <NUM>' may include one or more guide features <NUM> configured to engage one or more guide features <NUM> disposed on the cable port <NUM>. For example, the guide features <NUM>, <NUM> may include channels and/or rails that are complementary, such as depicted in <FIG>.

The cable port seals, as described above, provides a space efficient segmented seal utilizing snap fits and no tools. The segments enable a large range of cable diameters, including both individual cables and cable bundles, and types, including round and butterfly. Seal segments are placed in to guide channels, and fiber optic cables between, or through, seal segments. Snap fits on the guide channel and seal segments and/or caps lock into place with no tools. The snap fit provides a small tolerance stack chain providing superior and uniform compression to sealing components. To remove, or add an additional, fiber cable the segments can simply be squeezed to release the snap fit and removed. Additionally, the symmetrical design of the cable port seal components reduces the number of parts and installation complexity. The cable port seals are not part of the claimed invention.

Turning now to the strain relief portion of the cable port seal and strain relief assembly, <FIG> illustrate top and bottom perspective views of an example strain relief <NUM> for fiber optic cable according to the claimed invention. The strain relief <NUM> may include a body <NUM> including a sidewall <NUM>, a cable passthrough <NUM>, and a cable slot <NUM>. The sidewall <NUM> may be substantially rectangular shaped as depicted in <FIG>, may be substantially arc shaped as depicted in <FIG>, or any other suitable shape. The cable passthrough <NUM> may be an aperture disposed in the body <NUM> from a first end to a second end that may enable a fiber optic cable to pass from the first end to the second end of the body <NUM>. The cable slot <NUM> may be a gap in the sidewall <NUM> extending from a first end to a second end of the body <NUM>, such that a fiber optic cable may be inserted therethrough without feeding the fiber optic cable through the cable passthrough <NUM> from the first end to the second end.

In an example embodiment, the strain relief <NUM> includes one or more hooks <NUM> disposed on an exterior surface of the sidewall <NUM> and extending therefrom. As described in further detail below in reference to <FIG>, the hooks <NUM> are configured to resist movement of a strength member of a fiber optic cable, when the strength member is wrapped around the body <NUM>. The strength member of the fiber optic cable may be a aramid yarn layer, such as Kevlar®, configured to limit axial torsion applied to the optical fiber. The hooks <NUM> may function in a manner similar to hook and loop fasteners, e.g. Velcro, when the strength member is wrapped around the body <NUM>. The hooks <NUM> may include a projection coupled to the sidewall <NUM> at a first projection end and one or more barbs <NUM> extending radially from the projection at a second projection end. The barbs <NUM> may form a cross pattern having two sets of opposing barbs <NUM>, form a cross pattern having one barb disposed perpendicularly to a set of opposing barbs <NUM>, form a star pattern with three, five, or other number of barbs extending at regular intervals, or other suitable configuration. In some example embodiments, the strain relief <NUM> may also include one or more pins <NUM> extending from the sidewall <NUM>. The pins <NUM> may be configured to resist movement of the strength member toward either the first or second end of the body <NUM>, e.g. sliding.

In some example embodiments, the strain relief <NUM> may include a first end plate <NUM> disposed at the first end of the body <NUM> and a second end plate <NUM> disposed at the second end of the body <NUM>. The first end plate <NUM> and second end plate <NUM> configured to be received by a strain relief receiver, such as the strain relief receiver <NUM> depicted in <FIG>. The strain relief receiver <NUM> may be configured to retain the strain relief <NUM> in a mounted position relative to the fiber optic assembly <NUM>, when the cable strain relief <NUM> is installed on the fiber optic assembly <NUM>. The strain relief receiver <NUM> may be disposed in the interior volume of the fiber optic assembly <NUM> or may be disposed external to the fiber optic assembly <NUM>. In some example embodiments, the strain relief receiver <NUM> may be disposed proximate to, or immediately next to a respective cable port seal <NUM>.

The strain relief receiver <NUM> may include a backplane <NUM> configured to be mounted within the housing, such as on the base portion <NUM>. The strain relief receiver <NUM> may include one or more strain relief receptacles <NUM> configured to receive individual strain reliefs <NUM>. The strain relief receptacles <NUM> may have a complementary shape to the strain relief <NUM> and/or the end plates <NUM>, <NUM> of the strain relief <NUM>, such that an interference fit is established between a strain relief <NUM> and the strain relief receptacle <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. Multiple strain relief receptacles <NUM> may be arranged next to each other, offset (as depicted in <FIG>), staggered, or other suitable placement. A staggered or offset arrangement of the strain relief receptacles <NUM> may increase the accessible area for installation and removal of strain reliefs <NUM>, thereby reducing the dexterity needed to perform an installation or removal function by a technician. In some example embodiments, the close proximity of the strain relief <NUM> to the backplane <NUM>, when the strain relief <NUM> is installed into a strain relief receptacle <NUM>, may increase the resistance to movement of the strength member of the fiber optic cable.

In some example embodiments, a strain relief receiver <NUM>' may include a plurality of strain relief receptacles <NUM> arranged side by side, as shown in <FIG>. Further, the strain relief receiver <NUM>' may include one or more guide features <NUM> configured to engage one or more guide features <NUM> disposed on the cable port <NUM>. For example, the guide features <NUM>, <NUM> may include channels and/or rails that are complementary, as depicted in <FIG>. In some embodiments, the strain relief receivers <NUM>' may include one or more restraint features <NUM>, such as tabs, protrusions, or detents, configured to resist movement of the strain relief receivers <NUM>' out of, or away from, the cable port <NUM>. For example, the restraint features <NUM> may be disposed on or proximate to the guide features <NUM>, <NUM>, such that when the guide features <NUM> of the strain relief receiver <NUM>' engage the guide features <NUM> of the cable port <NUM>, the restrain features resist removal thereof. As depicted in <FIG>, the cable port <NUM> may be configured to accept a plurality of strain relief receivers <NUM>', such as in a stacked arrangement. The stacked arrangement may enable easy expandability or build out of the fiber optic assembly <NUM> as additional fiber optic cables are added.

Turing to <FIG>, a strain relief receiver <NUM>" may be provided having a reduced profile. The strain relief <NUM>" may include one or more channels <NUM> configured to receive a first end plate <NUM> or second end plate <NUM> of a strain relief <NUM>. The first end plate <NUM> or second end plate <NUM> may be interference fit in the channel <NUM>. Additionally or alternatively the first end plate <NUM>, second end plate <NUM>, and/or the channel <NUM> may include one ore more mounting features, such as detents or protrusions. The mounting features may resist removal of the strain relief <NUM> from the strain relief receiver <NUM>". Similar to the strain relief <NUM>', discussed in reference to <FIG>, the strain reliefs <NUM>", having the smaller profile, may also be stacked to enable easy expandability and/or build out of the fiber optic assembly <NUM>.

In some example embodiments, the strain relief receiver <NUM>" may include one or more sockets <NUM> configured to receive a mounting feature <NUM> (<FIG>). The mounting feature <NUM> may be inserted into a socket <NUM> and may be retained therein by a friction or interference fit. Additionally or alternatively, the sockets <NUM> may include one or more holes or detents <NUM> corresponding to one or more projections <NUM> disposed on the mounting feature <NUM>. When the mounting feature <NUM> is inserted into the sockets <NUM>, the projections <NUM> may engage the detents <NUM>. Engagement of the projections <NUM> and the detents <NUM> may resist removal of the strain relief <NUM> from the strain relief receiver <NUM>". In some embodiments, the configuration may be reversed, such that the sockets <NUM> are disposed on the strain relief <NUM> and the mounting feature <NUM> is disposed on the strain relief receiver <NUM>". In a further embodiment, the configuration may alternate, such that the strain relief receiver <NUM>" includes both sockets <NUM> and mounting features <NUM> in an alternating pattern and strain reliefs having the corresponding mounting feature <NUM> or socket <NUM> are installed thereon.

Turning back to <FIG>, the strain relief <NUM> may include a notch <NUM> disposed in an edge of the first end plate <NUM> and/or second end plate <NUM>. The notch <NUM> may disposed in an edge of the first end plate <NUM> or second end plate <NUM> opposite the cable slot <NUM>. The notch <NUM> may enable the strength member of the fiber optic cable to transition from an interior of the sidewall <NUM> to the exterior of the sidewall <NUM>, to be wrapped around the body <NUM>. In some example embodiments, the notch <NUM> may be V-shaped with substantially planner sidewalls, may be V-shaped with arched sidewalls, may be rectangular, or any other suitable shape. In an example embodiment, the V-shape of the notch <NUM> may provide some resistance to movement of the strength member when passed therethrough.

In an example embodiment, such as the strain relief <NUM> shown in <FIG>, the strain relief <NUM> may include one or more cable guides <NUM>. The cable guides <NUM> may be disposed in the cable slot <NUM> and configured to receive the cable in a first direction, e.g. into the cable passthrough <NUM>, and resist the cable in a second direction, e.g. out of the cable passthrough <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the cable guides <NUM> may include one or more protrusions extending from the first end plate <NUM>, the second end plate <NUM>, or the sidewall <NUM> into the cable slot <NUM>. In some example embodiments, the cable guides <NUM> may be angled inward toward the cable passthrough <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrate an example method of installing a strain relief <NUM> on to a fiber optic cable <NUM> according to an example embodiment. A technician may remove a cable jacket <NUM> from a portion of the fiber optic cable <NUM>, thereby exposing the strength member <NUM> and the optical fiber <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the fiber optic cable <NUM> is inserted into the strain relief <NUM> through the cable slot <NUM>. The end of the cable jacket <NUM> may be positioned at or near the end of the strain relief <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>, or may be positioned substantially centered in the strain relief <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. In the embodiment, depicted in <FIG> the strength member <NUM> is passed through the notch <NUM> from the interior of the sidewall <NUM> to the exterior of the sidewall <NUM>, where it may then be wrapped around the body <NUM> of the strain relief <NUM>. In the embodiment shown in <FIG> the strength member <NUM> is passed through the cable slot <NUM> at a central position of the strain relief <NUM> from the interior of the sidewall <NUM> to an exterior of the sidewall <NUM>, where it may then be wrapped around the body <NUM> of the strain relief <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the strength member <NUM> is wrapped around the body <NUM> of the strain relief <NUM> one or more times, until a terminal end of the strength member <NUM> is reached. Individual fibers of the strength member <NUM> are laced between the hooks <NUM> and pins <NUM> by the force of wrapping the strength member <NUM> around the body <NUM>. The lacing of fiber of the strength member <NUM> between the hooks <NUM> and pins <NUM> causes the strength member <NUM> to be connected to the hooks <NUM> and pins <NUM> in a manner similar to a hook and loop fastener, thereby causing a resistance to movement of the strength member <NUM> about the body <NUM>. Additionally, the outer wrappings of the strength member <NUM> apply a pressure to inner wrappings of the strength member <NUM> that further resist movement of the strength member <NUM> relative to the body <NUM>. The strain relief <NUM> may be inserted into a strain relief receptacle <NUM>, as discussed above in reference to <FIG>. Since the strength member <NUM> is connected to the strain relief <NUM>, axial torsion applied to the fiber optic cable <NUM> is transferred to the strength members <NUM> and to the strain relief <NUM>, thereby limiting or eliminating axial torsion experienced by the optical fiber <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrate various views of an example strain relief <NUM> according to an example embodiment. The depicted strain relief <NUM> includes an arced sidewall <NUM>, with a substantially rectangular first end plate <NUM> and second end plate <NUM>. Two sets of three hooks <NUM> are disposed on an upper side of an exterior surface of the sidewall <NUM> adjacent to a cable slot <NUM>. Each of the hooks <NUM> includes three barbs <NUM> arranged in a cross pattern with one barb <NUM> extending perpendicularly to two opposing barbs <NUM>. Pins <NUM> are disposed on a lower side of the exterior surface of the sidewall <NUM>. The strain relief <NUM> also included two sets of cable guides <NUM> disposed at each end of the cable slot <NUM> on the first end plate <NUM> and second end plate <NUM>. Each of the cable guides <NUM> is curved inward toward the cable passthrough <NUM>. The strain relief <NUM> also includes a V-shaped notch <NUM> disposed in the first end plate <NUM> and second end plate <NUM> on an edge opposite the cable slot <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrate various view of a second example strain relief <NUM> according to an example embodiment. The depicted strain relief <NUM> includes an arced sidewall <NUM>, with a substantially rectangular first end plate <NUM> and second end plate <NUM>. Two sets of three hooks <NUM> are disposed on an upper side of an exterior surface of the sidewall <NUM> adjacent to a cable slot <NUM>. A second group of two sets of three hooks <NUM> are disposed on a lower side of an exterior surface of the sidewall <NUM> substantially opposite the first groups of hooks <NUM>. Each of the hooks <NUM> includes three barbs <NUM> arranged in a cross pattern with one barb <NUM> extending perpendicularly to two opposing barbs <NUM>. Pins <NUM> are disposed on a lower side of the exterior surface of the sidewall <NUM>. The strain relief <NUM> also included two sets of cable guides <NUM> disposed at each end of the cable slot <NUM> on the first end plate <NUM> and second end plate <NUM>. Each of the cable guides <NUM> is curved inward toward the cable passthrough <NUM>. The strain relief <NUM> also includes a V-shaped notch <NUM> disposed in the first end plate <NUM> and second end plate <NUM> on an edge opposite the cable slot <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrate various views of a third example strain relief according to an example embodiment. The depicted strain relief <NUM> includes an arced sidewall <NUM>, with a substantially rectangular first end plate <NUM> and second end plate <NUM>, having rounded corners on a lower side opposite the cable slot <NUM>. Two sets of three hooks <NUM> are disposed on an upper side of an exterior surface of the sidewall <NUM> adjacent to a cable slot <NUM>. A second group of two sets of three hooks <NUM> are disposed on a lower side of an exterior surface of the sidewall <NUM> substantially opposite the first groups of hooks <NUM>. A third group of hooks <NUM> includes two hooks <NUM> disposed between the second group of hooks <NUM> disposed on the lower side of the exterior surface of the sidewall <NUM>. Additionally, a small hook 308A including a barb extending directly from the sidewall <NUM> is disposed between each pair of hooks <NUM> of the second group of hooks <NUM>. The hooks <NUM> disposed adjacent to the cable slot <NUM> include three barbs <NUM> arranged in a cross pattern with one barb <NUM> extending perpendicularly to two opposing barbs <NUM>. The hooks <NUM> disposed on the sidewall <NUM> opposite the cable slot <NUM> include four barbs <NUM> arranged in a cross pattern with two sets of opposing barbs <NUM> extending perpendicularly to each other. The strain relief <NUM> also includes two sets of cable guides <NUM> disposed at each end of the cable slot <NUM> on the first end plate <NUM> and second end plate <NUM>. Each of the cable guides <NUM> is curved inward toward the cable passthrough <NUM>. The strain relief <NUM> also includes a V-shaped notch <NUM> disposed in the first end plate <NUM> and second end plate <NUM> on an edge opposite the cable slot <NUM>. The strain relief <NUM> also includes a set of alignment features <NUM> configured to assist in aligning the fiber optic cable strain relief in a strain relief receptacle <NUM>, when the strain relief <NUM> is installed therein.

<FIG> illustrate various views of a fourth example strain relief according to an example embodiment. The depicted strain relief <NUM> includes an arced sidewall <NUM>, with a substantially rectangular first end plate <NUM> and second end plate <NUM>. Two sets of three hooks <NUM> are disposed on an upper side of an exterior surface of the sidewall <NUM> adjacent to a cable slot <NUM>. A second group of two sets of three hooks <NUM> are disposed on a lower side of an exterior surface of the sidewall <NUM> substantially opposite the first groups of hooks <NUM>. A third group of hooks <NUM> includes two hooks <NUM> disposed between the second group of hooks <NUM> disposed on the lower side of the exterior surface of the sidewall <NUM>. Additionally, a small hook 308A including a barb extending directly from the sidewall <NUM> is disposed between each pair of hooks <NUM> of the second group of hooks <NUM> and the hooks disposed on the upper side of the exterior surface of the sidewall <NUM>. The hooks <NUM> disposed on the sidewall <NUM> opposite the cable slot <NUM> include four barbs <NUM> arranged in a cross pattern with two sets of opposing barbs <NUM> extending perpendicularly to each other. The strain relief <NUM> also includes a set of cable guides <NUM> disposed at an end of the cable slot <NUM> on the first end plate <NUM>. Each of the cable guides <NUM> is curved inward toward the cable passthrough <NUM>. The second end plate <NUM> includes a fiber slot <NUM> configured to enable the optical fiber of a fiber optic cable to pass therethrough. The second end plate <NUM> may serve as a cable stop, limiting the movement of the fiber optic cable through the second end plate <NUM>. The strain relief <NUM> also includes a V-shaped notch <NUM> disposed in the second end plate <NUM> on an edge opposite the cable slot <NUM>. The strain relief <NUM> also includes a mounting feature <NUM> disposed on the first end plate <NUM> and configured to be inserted into a socket <NUM> (<FIG>) to retain the strain relief <NUM> in the strain relief receiver <NUM>". The mounting feature <NUM> includes a first projection <NUM> on a top surface of the mounting feature <NUM> and a second projection <NUM> on a bottom surface of the mounting feature <NUM>. The projections <NUM> correspond to detents <NUM> in the sockets <NUM>, as described above. The strain relief <NUM> also includes a plurality of friction elements <NUM>, such as bumps or spikes, disposed on the interior surface of the sidewall <NUM>. The friction elements <NUM> may increase friction between a fiber optic cable and the strain relief <NUM>, which may further resist movement of the fiber optic cable relative to the strain relief <NUM>.

Turning to <FIG>, a cable tie strain relief <NUM> may be provided, which is not part of the claimed invention. The cable tie strain relief <NUM> may be configured to resist movement of a fiber optic cable when a cable tie is wrapped around a body of the cable tie strain relief <NUM>. The cable tie strain relief <NUM> may share many of the features of the strain reliefs <NUM>, discussed above, and be configured to be received by the strain relief receivers <NUM>, <NUM>', <NUM>". More particularly, the cable tie strain relief <NUM> may include a body defining a sidewall <NUM>', a cable pass through <NUM>', and a cable slot <NUM>', similar to the strain relief <NUM> discussed above. The cable tie strain relief <NUM> may also include a first end plate <NUM>' and a second end plate <NUM>', as well as a set of cable guides <NUM> disposed thereon. In some example embodiments, the cable tie strain relief may include friction elements <NUM>', including without limitation bumps, ridges, spikes, or the like disposed on the interior surface of the sidewall <NUM>'. The friction elements <NUM>' may increase friction between a fiber optic cable and the cable tie strain relief <NUM>, which may further resist movement of the fiber optic cable relative to the cable strain relief <NUM>. The cable tie strain relief <NUM> also includes a mounting feature <NUM>' disposed on the first end plate <NUM>' and a second mounting feature <NUM>' disposed on the second end plate <NUM>'. The mounting features <NUM>' are configured to be inserted into a socket <NUM> (<FIG>) to retain the strain relief <NUM> in the strain relief receiver <NUM>". The mounting features <NUM>' includes a first projection <NUM>' on a top surface of the mounting feature <NUM>' and a second projection <NUM>' on a bottom surface of the mounting feature <NUM>'. The projections <NUM>' correspond to detents <NUM> in the sockets <NUM>, as described above.

The sidewall <NUM>' of the cable tie strain relief <NUM> have a smaller width at or near the center of the body, and/or the sidewall <NUM>' may not wrap as far around the cable pass through <NUM>', as compared to the strain reliefs <NUM>. The smaller geometry of the sidewall <NUM>' may reduce or eliminate gaps formed between the cable tie and one of the fiber optic cable or the cable tie strain relief <NUM>.

The cable tie strain relief <NUM> may include a cable tie feature <NUM> disposed on an exterior surface of the sidewall <NUM>'. The cable tie feature <NUM> may be configured to resist movement of the fiber optic cable relative to the cable tie strain relief <NUM>, which may enable the cable tie strain relief <NUM> to be attached outside of the fiber optic assembly <NUM> and subsequently mounted in a strain relief receiver <NUM>, <NUM>', <NUM>". In an example embodiment, the cable tie feature <NUM> may comprise a plurality of raised portions <NUM> extending from the exterior surface of the sidewall <NUM>'. The raised portions <NUM> may have guide surfaces that are substantially planar configured to resist movement of the cable tie relative to the body of the strain relief <NUM>. The guide surfaces may extend generally perpendicular to the sidewall <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the cable tie feature <NUM> includes two raised portions <NUM>, each including a guide surface forming a cable tie channel therebetween. In some example embodiments, the cable tie feature <NUM> may also include a bridge portions <NUM> disposed between adjacent raised portions <NUM> forming a cable tie aperture. Although a cable tie is discussed in reference to the cable tie strain relief, other banding may also be utilized, such as twist ties, loop and hook fastener straps, or other suitable banding.

Turning to <FIG>, a cable bundle strain relief <NUM> is provided, which is not part of the present invention. The cable bundle strain relief <NUM> may be configured to limit or prevent axial torsion of a plurality of fiber optic cables passing through a cable port <NUM>. The cable bundle strain relief <NUM> may include one or more restraint projections <NUM> extending from a base <NUM>. The restraint projections <NUM> may extend generally perpendicular to the base <NUM>. As depicted in <FIG>, a plurality of fiber optic cables, e.g. a cable bundle <NUM>, may be banded at least a first location <NUM> and a second location <NUM>, such as with cable ties, twist ties, hook and loop fastener straps, rubber bands, or other suitable banding. The cable bundle <NUM> may then be positioned on the cable bundle strain relief <NUM> between the first location <NUM> and the second location <NUM>, such that a first portion of the plurality of cables is positioned at a first face <NUM> of the restraint projection <NUM> and a second portion of the plurality of cables is positioned at a second face <NUM> of the restraint projection <NUM>. In other words, the restraint projection <NUM> is passed through a middle of the cable bundle <NUM> between the first band location <NUM> and the second band location <NUM>. Axial torsion is limited by the interaction of the banded locations <NUM>, <NUM> of the cable bundle <NUM> and the restraint projections <NUM>. As the first location <NUM>, or the second location <NUM>, of the cable bundle <NUM> is pulled toward the toward the restraint projection <NUM>, the first and second portions of the cable bundle will become increasingly constricted against the restraint projection <NUM>, thereby limiting further movement of the cable bundle <NUM> relative to the cable bundle strain relief <NUM>.

The restraint projection <NUM> may include a distal end <NUM> opposite the base <NUM>. In some embodiments, the distal end <NUM> of the restraint projection <NUM> may be tapered or angled to reduce resistance to positioning the cable bundle <NUM> onto the restraint projection <NUM>. The tapered distal end <NUM> may act similar to a wedge dividing the cable bundle <NUM> as the cable bundle is positioned on the restratint projection <NUM>.

In an example embodiment, the cable bands at the first location <NUM> and second location <NUM> may be disposed adjacent to the restraint projection <NUM>. In some example embodiments, the cable bundle strain relief <NUM> may include one or more band projections configured to restrain a cable band at the first location <NUM> or a cable band at the second location <NUM> from moving relative to the restraint projection <NUM>. The restraint projection <NUM> may include a leading edge <NUM> facing the internal volume of the fiber optic assembly <NUM> and a trailing edge <NUM> facing the housing of the fiber optic assembly <NUM>. A band projection <NUM> may disposed at the leading edge <NUM> of the restraint projection <NUM>. <FIG> depicts an example embodiment of a cable bundle strain relief <NUM> in which the band projection disposed at the leading edge <NUM> of the restraint projection is generally T-shaped. A band may be affixed about the cable bundle <NUM> and the band projection, such as after positioning the cable bundle <NUM> on the restraint projection <NUM>. In some example embodiments, a band projection may also be disposed at the trailing edge <NUM> of the restraint projection <NUM>. Additionally or alternatively, a band projection <NUM> may be disposed separate from, but proximate to, the trailing edge <NUM> of the restraint projection <NUM>. In the embodiments, depicted in <FIG>, the cable bundle strain relief <NUM> includes an arm <NUM> extending from the base <NUM>. The band projection <NUM> proximate to the trailing edge <NUM> is disposed at a distal end of the arm <NUM>. The arm <NUM> may be configured to pass through the cable port <NUM>, such that the band at the second location <NUM> is disposed outside of the fiber optic assembly <NUM>. More particularly, the arm <NUM> may be configured to pass through a sealing component <NUM> disposed in the cable port <NUM>, as depicted in <FIG> and <FIG>. As such, the sealing component <NUM> may include an aperture to enable passage of the arm <NUM> therethrough. The band projection <NUM> may have a generally T-shape configured to limit movement of the band relative to the restraint projection <NUM>.

Similar to the strain relief receivers <NUM>, <NUM>', <NUM>", the cable bundle strain relief <NUM> may include one or more guide features <NUM> configured to engage one or more guide features <NUM> disposed on the cable port <NUM> or housing of the fiber optic assembly. For example, the guide features <NUM>, <NUM> may include channels and/or rails that are complementary, as depicted in <FIG>. As such, the cable bundle strain relief <NUM> may be selectively installed and removed from the cable port <NUM> and/or the fiber optic assembly <NUM>. In some embodiments, the cable bundle strain relief <NUM> may include one or more restraint features <NUM>, such as tabs, protrusions, or detents, configured to resist movement of the cable bundle strain relief <NUM> out of, or away from, the cable port <NUM>. For example, the restraint features <NUM> may be disposed on or proximate to the guide features <NUM>, <NUM>, such that when the guide features <NUM> of the cable bundle strain relief <NUM> engage the guide features <NUM> of the cable port <NUM>, the restraint features <NUM> resist removal thereof.

Although embodiments discussed above are merely for illustrative purposes. One of ordinary skill would immediately appreciate that the features of any of the cable port seals and/or strain reliefs provided may be intermixed or omitted based on the application. However only the strain relief and the strain relief receiver as shown in <FIG> is part of the claimed invention.

The cable strain reliefs, as described above, provide easy methods of attachment and retention of a fiber optic cable providing superior axial torsion strain relief with no tools. Further, the strain reliefs do not require the fiber optic cable to pass through any closed loop geometry. In one example strain relief, the strength member of the fiber optic cable, e.g. aramid yarn, is wrapped about the body of the strain relief and held in position by a plurality of hooks in a manner similar to a hook and loop fastener, e.g. Velcro. In a second example strain relief, the strain relief is attached to the fiber optic cable by a cable tie. The fiber optic cable may be installed into either the first or second type of strain relief with the strain relief outside of the fiber optic assembly and then installed into a strain relief receiver. The cable strain reliefs provide a one part solution with no additional or movable parts. As such, the cable strain relief requires significantly less manual dexterity than conventional methods, which may dramatically reduce installation complexity and time. Additionally, the diameter of the cable pass through is not significant to the operation of the cable strain relief, enabling a large range of cables diameters and types to utilize the strain relief.

With regard to the cable bundle strain relief, which are not part of the claimed invention, the cable bundle bands may be applied inside or external to the fiber optic assembly and simply positioned onto the restraint projection. The axial torsion is dispersed among the cables as the cables are moved toward the restraint projection, thereby limiting movement of the cable bundle relative to the cable bundle strain relief. The cable bundle strain relief provides a one part solution with no additional or movable parts. As such, the cable bundle strain relief requires significantly less manual dexterity than conventional methods, which may dramatically reduce installation complexity and time. Additionally, the strain relief does not include a cable pass through with an associated diameter, enabling a large range of cables diameters and types to utilize the cable bundle strain relief.

In an example embodiment, a fiber optic assembly is provided including a housing, a cable port configured for one or more fiber optic cables to pass from an exterior of the housing to an interior of the housing, and a cable port seal disposed in the cable port, which is not part of the claimed invention, The cable port seal includes a first sealing component formed of a deformable material, a first compression element and a second compression element configured to compress the first sealing component in a first direction, a second sealing component formed of the deformable material, and a cap configured to compress the first sealing component and the second sealing component in a second direction, the second direction being perpendicular to the first direction. The compression in the first direction and the compression in the second direction provides an environmental seal around a fiber optic cable, when the fiber optic cable is installed between the first sealing component and the second sealing component. In some example embodiments, the first compression element and the second compression element include one or more cable guide apertures. In an example embodiment, each of the one or more cable guide apertures include an opening configured to receive the cable in a first direction and resist removal of the cable in a second direction. In some example embodiments, the first compression element and the second compression element each include a locking feature configured to engage a corresponding capture feature disposed in the cable port, such that the capture feature resists movement of the first compression element and the second compression element out of the fiber optic port. In an example embodiment, the first compression element includes a first sidewall and the second compression element includes a second sidewall. Deflection of the first sidewall and the second sidewall toward each other causes the locking feature to disengage the capture feature. In some example embodiments, the cable port includes a U-shaped channel configured to receive the cable port seal. In an example embodiment, the capture feature is disposed in the U-shaped channel. In some example embodiments, the first compression element is substantially the same as the second compression element. In an example embodiment, the first compression element and the second compression element include corresponding connection features configured to couple the first compression element to the second compression element. In some example embodiments, the first sealing component includes a pocket aperture configured to receive the corresponding connector features therethrough. In an example embodiment, the first compression element and the second compression element each include a sidewall configured to compress the first sealing component in the first direction, a connection feature configured to couple the first compression element to the second compression element, and a pivot disposed between the sidewall and the connection feature. The pivot enables deflection of the sidewall. In some example embodiments, the sidewalls of the first compression element and the second compression element have a V-shaped geometry when coupled to each other. In an example embodiment, the cable port seal further includes a third sealing component formed of a deformable material and a third compression element and a fourth compression element configured to compress the third sealing component in the first direction. The cap is further configured to compress the first sealing component against the sealing component in a second direction, and the compression in the first direction and the compression in the second direction provides an environmental seal around a second fiber optic cable, when the second fiber optic cable is installed between the first sealing component and the third sealing component.

In an example embodiment, a fiber optic assembly is provided including a housing having an internal volume and a cable strain relief, being part of the claimed invention, including a body defining <NUM>) a sidewall, <NUM>) a cable passthrough disposed in the body from a first end to a second end, and <NUM>) a cable slot disposed through the sidewall enabling a fiber optic cable to be inserted into the cable passthrough therethrough. The strain relief may also include a plurality of hooks disposed on an exterior surface of the sidewall. The plurality of hooks are configured to resist movement of a strength member of the fiber optic cable, when the strength member is wrapped around the body. The fiber optic housing may also include a strain relief receiver configured to retain the cable strain relief in a mounted position in the fiber optic housing, when the cable strain relief is installed therein. In some example embodiments, the cable strain relief also includes a first end plate disposed at the first end of the body and a second end plate disposed at the second end of the body. The first end plate and second end plate are configured to be received by the strain relief receiver. In an example embodiment, a notch is disposed in an edge of the first end plate or second end plate. The notch enables the strength member to transition from an interior of the sidewall to the exterior of the sidewall. In some example embodiments, the notch is substantially V-shaped. In an example embodiment, the cable strain relief also includes a plurality of pins extending from the sidewall. The pins resist movement of the strength member toward either the first end or the second end. In some example embodiments, the cable strain relief further includes a cable retention member configured to resist movement of the fiber optic cable out of the cable slot. In an example embodiment, the sidewall is arc shaped. In some example embodiments, the sidewall is rectangular shaped. In an example embodiment, one or more of the plurality of hooks include a projection coupled to the sidewall at a first projection end and one or more barbs extending radially from the projection at a second projection end. In an example embodiment, the one or more barbs form a crossed pattern including at least one barb disposed substantially perpendicular to two opposing barbs. In some example embodiments, the strength member includes an aramid yarn layer of the fiber optic cable.

In some example embodiments, which are not part of the claimed invention, a cable seal and strain relief system is provided including both the cable strain relief and the cable port seal described above with the fiber optic housing. Additionally or alternatively, the cable strain relief and/or cable port seal, as described above, may be provided separately from each other and/or the fiber optic housing.

In another example embodiment, a fiber optic assembly is provided including a housing having an exterior and an internal volume, a cable port configured for a plurality of fiber optic cables to pass from an exterior of the housing to an interior of the housing, and a cable strain relief. The cable strain relief includes a base and a restraint projection extending from the base. The restraint projection includes a first face and an opposing second face, a leading edge facing the internal volume, and a trailing edge facing the exterior of the housing. The restraint projection is configured to receive the plurality of fiber optic cables banded at a first location and a second location, the first location disposed at the leading edge and the second location disposed at the trailing edge, such that a first portion of the plurality of fiber optic cables is disposed at the first face and a second portion of the plurality of fiber optic cables is disposed at the second face, and the restraint projection resists lateral movement of the plurality of fiber optic cables relative to the base.

In an example embodiment, the restraint projection further includes a band projection disposed at the leading edge. The band projection is configured to restrain a cable band from moving away from the leading edge. In some example embodiments, a distal end of the restraint projection is tapered. In an example embodiment, the first face or the second face is concave. In an example embodiment, the cable strain relief includes a band projection disposed proximate to the trailing edge and the band projection is configured to restrain a cable band from moving away from the trailing edge. In an example embodiment, the base includes an arm configured to extend through the cable port and the band projection is disposed at a distal end of the arm. In an example embodiment, the fiber optic assembly also includes a cable port seal and the arm passes through the cable port seal. In an example embodiment, the cable strain relief also includes a plurality of restrain projections. In an example embodiment, the cable strain relief includes a guide feature and the housing also includes a complementary guide feature. The guide feature and the complementary guide feature enable selective removal of the cable strain relief from the housing. In an example embodiment, the fiber optic assembly also includes a cable port seal disposed in the cable port. In an example embodiment, the cable strain relief is disposed in the interior of the housing. In an example embodiment, the cable strain relief is disposed adjacent to the cable port. In an example embodiment, the cable port is configured to receive the cable strain relief. In an example embodiment, the cable strain relief includes a guide feature and the cable port further includes a complementary guide feature. The guide feature and complementary guide feature enable selective removal of the cable strain relief from the cable port.

In a further example embodiment, a method for strain relieving a plurality of fiber optic cables at a fiber optic assembly is provided. The method is not part of the claimed invention. The method includes passing the plurality of fiber optic cables through a cable port between an exterior of a housing of the fiber optic assembly and an interior of the housing, banding the plurality of fiber optic cables at a first location and a second location, and positioning the plurality of fiber optic cables on a cable strain relief. The cable strain relief including a base and a restraint projection extending from the base. The restraint projection includes a first face and an opposing second face, a leading edge facing the interior of the housing, and a trailing edge facing the exterior of the housing. The first location is disposed at the leading edge and the second location is disposed at the trailing edge, such that a first portion of the plurality of fiber optic cables is disposed at the first face and a second portion of the plurality of fiber optic cables is disposed at the second face the restraint projection resists lateral movement of the plurality of fiber optic cables relative to the base.

In an example embodiment, the restraint projection also includes a band projection disposed at the leading edge and the band projection is configured to restrain a cable band from moving away from the leading edge. In an example embodiment, a distal end of the restraint projection is tapered. In an example embodiment, the first face or the second face is concave. In an example embodiment, the cable strain relief includes a band projection disposed proximate to the trailing edge and the band projection is configured to restrain a cable band from moving away from the trailing edge. In an example embodiment, the base includes an arm configured to extend through the cable port and the band projection is disposed at a distal end of the arm.

In yet another embodiment, a fiber optic assembly is provided including a housing having an internal volume and a cable strain relief. The cable strain relief including a body defining <NUM>) a sidewall, <NUM>) a cable passthrough disposed in the body from a first end of the body to a second end of the body, and <NUM>) a cable slot disposed through the sidewall enabling a fiber optic cable to be inserted into the cable passthrough and a cable tie feature disposed on an exterior surface of the sidewall. The cable tie feature is configured to resist movement of a cable tie relative to the body, when the cable tie is wrapped around the body and the fiber optic cable. The fiber optic assembly also includes a strain relief receiver configured to retain the cable strain relief in a mounted position relative to the housing, when the cable strain relief is installed on the housing.

In an example embodiment, the cable tie feature includes a through aperture. In some example embodiments, the cable tie feature includes a plurality of raised portions of the exterior surface of the sidewall. In an example embodiment, the cable strain relief also includes a first end plate disposed at the first end of the body and a second end plate disposed at the second end of the body. The first end plate and the second end plate are configured to be received by the strain relief receiver. In some example embodiments, the cable strain relief also includes a cable retention member configured to resist movement of the fiber optic cable out of the cable slot. In an example embodiment, the strain relief receiver is configured to retain a plurality of cable strain reliefs. In some example embodiments, the cable strain relief also includes a retention feature and the strain relief receiver also includes a complementary retention feature. In an example embodiment, the retention feature and the complementary retention feature include a snap-fit. In some example embodiments, the strain relief receiver includes a slide feature and the housing also includes a complementary slide feature. The slide feature and the complementary slide feature enable selective removal of the strain relief receiver from the housing. In an example embodiment, the fiber optic assembly also includes a cable port configured for one or more fiber optic cables to pass from an exterior of the housing to an interior of the housing and a cable port seal disposed in the cable port. In some example embodiments, the strain relief receiver is disposed in the interior of the housing. In an example embodiment, the strain relief receiver is disposed adjacent to the cable port. In some example embodiments, the cable port is configured to receive the strain relief receiver. In an example embodiment, the cable port is configured to receive a plurality of strain relief receivers. In some example embodiments, the cable port is configured to receive the plurality of strain relief receivers in a stacked configuration. In an example embodiment, the strain relief receiver includes a slide feature and the cable port includes a complementary slide feature. The slide feature and the complementary slide feature enable selective removal of the strain relief receiver from the cable port.

In still further embodiments, a cable strain relief is provided including a body defining <NUM>) a sidewall, <NUM>) a cable passthrough disposed in the body from a first end of the body to a second end of the body, and <NUM>) a cable slot disposed through the sidewall enabling a fiber optic cable to be inserted into the cable passthrough and a cable tie feature disposed on an exterior surface of the sidewall The cable tie feature is configured to resist movement of a cable tie relative to the body, when the cable tie is wrapped around the body and the fiber optic cable.

Claim 1:
A cable strain relief (<NUM>) for a fiber optic assembly (<NUM>), the cable strain relief comprising:
a body (<NUM>) defining a sidewall (<NUM>), a cable passthrough (<NUM>) disposed in the body from a first end of the body to a second end of the body, and a cable slot (<NUM>) disposed through the sidewall (<NUM>) enabling a fiber optic cable to be inserted into the cable passthrough (<NUM>); characterized in that it further comprises
a plurality of hooks (<NUM>) disposed on an exterior surface of the sidewall (<NUM>), wherein the plurality of hooks are configured to resist movement of a strength member (<NUM>) of the fiber optic cable (<NUM>), when the strength member is wrapped around the body (<NUM>).