Patent Description:
The need to protect signal distribution is particularly acute with respect to fiber optic communications. For example, fiber optic communication signals between individual homes and a fiber network may be implemented through an Outside Plant (OSP) terminal, such as a drop box, so that lower capacity cables may be used to deliver communication signals to individual homes, rather than a high-capacity main cable that brings such signals from upstream locations. However, because it is desirable to configure OSP terminals to allow for simple connection and disconnection of lower capacity cables to accommodate the particular requirements of users surrounding an OSP terminal placement location, a concern arises in that the connection points may be exposed to the surrounding environment. And, Because OSP terminals are often positioned in outdoor locations exposed to nature, such exposure may be significantly detrimental to the lifespan of the connection locations and the overall performance of the cable. Further, these concerns are also present in other examples where any two cable ends are connected or spliced with each another. Accordingly, a need exists to improve cable connection technology to provide better tolerance for wear due to exposure such as that found in outdoor environments.

According to its abstract, <CIT> relates to a modular fiber optic distribution system for enhancing installation flexibility and for facilitating adding components to a terminal housing over time so as to delay cost. The system is configured to allow components (e.g., inserts, add-on modules, etc.) to be readily added to the terminal housing over time to expand capacity, provide upgrades and to provide forward and backward compatibility.

Further, OSP terminals, particularly in arrangements where many lower capacity cable connections are included, may occupy a significant amount of space. Thus, there is also a need to arrange such terminals in a more spatially efficient manner.

The present disclosure provides assemblies and larger systems to improve the ability for connections in cable networks to withstand the effects of exposure to outdoor environments. For example, connection enclosure assemblies are contemplated that provide ease of use in assembly along with connection and disconnection of cable ends, while also provide a watertight enclosed space. In other examples, multi-cable terminal structures include a plurality of cable enclosure assemblies arranged in a spatially efficient manner to maximize the number of service cables within a particular volume of space. This is accomplished all while preserving accessibility of cable ends that are used for connection in each individual assembly within the terminal.

In a first aspect, the present disclosure relates to a system for sealing a cable connection against external elements. In a first embodiment, a system includes a duct, a first sealing portion and a second sealing portion. The duct includes a first end and a second end and may be configured to internally accommodate at least one cable connection element and an end of a cable. The first sealing portion may be engageable to the first end of the duct such that when the first sealing portion is engaged to the first end of the duct a watertight seal is created between the first sealing portion and the first end of the duct. The second sealing portion may be engageable to the second end of the duct such that when the second sealing portion is engaged to the second end of the duct and the end of the cable is engaged to the second sealing portion a watertight seal is created between the second sealing portion and the second end of the duct and between the second sealing portion and the end of the cable. Further, the end of the cable is enclosed within a watertight volume when the first and second sealing portions are secured to respective first and second ends of the duct.

In some examples of the first embodiment, the duct may be cylindrically shaped. In other examples, the first sealing portion may include an O-ring for mating with the first end of the duct. In further examples, the second sealing portion may include a grommet configured for insertion into the second end of the duct and having an opening for accommodating the cable. In still further examples, the system may also include a restraint for engaging the second sealing portion to the second end of the duct. In other examples, the at least one cable connection element may include an adapter. In still further examples, the system may also include a housing such that the first sealing portion is disposed in the housing. In such examples, the first sealing portion may be resilient such that the duct is rotationally movable relative to the housing. For instance, the duct may be rotatable <NUM> degrees about a base of the duct located at the first sealing portion.

In a second embodiment, a system for sealing a cable connection against external elements includes a housing and at least one duct. The housing may include at least one contour provided on the exterior of the housing, and at least one first sealing portion associated with respective ones of the at least one contour, each first sealing portion positioned at a first end of the housing and aligned with the corresponding contour of the at least one contour. The first sealing portion may be configured to secure at least one cable connection element. The at least one duct may be positioned within or on a respective one of the at least one contour. Each duct has a first end and a second end and may be configured to internally accommodate the at least one cable connection element and at least one end of a cable. The first end of the duct may be engageable to the first sealing portion such that when the first sealing portion is engaged to the first end of the duct, a watertight seal is created between the first sealing portion and the first end of the duct. The second end of the duct may be engageable to a second sealing portion such that when the second sealing portion is engaged to the second end of the duct and the cable is secured to the second sealing portion, a watertight seal is created between the second sealing portion and the second end of the duct and between the second sealing portion and the end of the cable. And, when the second end of the duct is secured to the second sealing portion, a portion of the duct proximate to the second end of the duct is disposed on the respective ones of the at least one contour.

In some examples of the second embodiment, the at least one duct may be cylindrically shaped. In some examples, the system may also include at least one latching mechanism for securing respective ones of the at least one duct within respective ones of the at least one contour. In a subset of these examples, each latching mechanism may be configured to secure the second sealing portion to the second end of the duct upon movement of the latching mechanism into a closed position. In other examples, for each contour of the at least one contour, when the latching mechanism is in an open position, the duct is movable along a longitudinal axis of the contour. In still further examples, each latching mechanism may include a lever and a latch and is rotatably secured to the housing. In further examples, the lever may be rotatably secured to the housing, and the latch is rotatably secured to the lever. In other examples, the system may include a resilient member secured to the housing and each latching mechanism may include a lever and a latch for rotatable securement to the resilient member. In some of these examples, the resilient member is a distribution portion, and the at least one contour separates the distribution portion from a base portion of the housing. In a subset of these examples, each latching mechanism includes a lever and a latch and is rotatably secured to the distribution portion. In further examples, the lever may be rotatably secured to the distribution portion, and the latch may be rotatably secured to the lever. In still further examples, the distribution portion may include at least one cable anchor corresponding to respective ones of the at least one contour.

In other examples of the second embodiment, the second sealing portion may include a grommet configured for insertion into the second end of the duct and having an opening for accommodating the cable. In some examples, the housing may include at least one cable anchor corresponding to respective ones of the at least one contour. In some examples, the system may include a plurality of contours and the contours may be arranged in a linear alignment with each other. In some examples, the system may include a plurality of contours and the contours may be arranged in a two-dimensional alignment with each other. In some examples, the contours may be arranged in a honeycomb shaped alignment. In some examples, the contours may be arranged in a circular shaped alignment. In further examples, the at least one cable connection element may include an adapter. In some examples, each first sealing portion may include an O-ring for mating with the first end of the corresponding duct. In some examples, the housing may include an opening for receiving a main cable.

In still further examples of the second embodiment, the housing may be part of a cable enclosure. The cable enclosure may include a main portion and a sealing assembly. The sealing assembly may be configured to accommodate at least one main cable portion and provide a watertight seal between the sealing assembly and the at least one main cable portion. The cable enclosure may further be configured to provide a watertight seal between the sealing assembly and the main portion. In other examples including the cable enclosure, the main portion may include a slack tray, a splice tray and a separator. The slack tray may be configured to house a portion of the at least one cable portion and the separator may be configured to house at least a portion of an intermediate cable. In these examples, one or more fibers from the at least one main cable portion may be spliced to one or more fibers from the intermediate cable at the splice tray. In other examples, the housing may be mounted on the main portion of the cable enclosure. In still further examples, the housing may be an integral part of the main portion of the cable enclosure. In further examples, the housing may be mounted on another part of the cable enclosure. In yet another example, the housing may also include a distribution portion and a base portion separated from the distribution portion by the at least one contour. Further, the system may include a duct span including a duct of the at least one duct that extends from the base portion to the distribution portion. The duct span may include a first segment proximal to the base portion that has a smaller diameter than a second segment where the second segment extends between the first segment and the distribution portion.

In a third embodiment, a system includes a housing and at least one duct. The housing may have at least one contour provided on the exterior of the housing. The housing may also have at least one first sealing portion associated with respective ones of the at least one contour, each first sealing portion positioned at a first end of the housing opposite the corresponding contour and configured to secure at least one cable connection element. The at least one duct may be positioned within respective ones of the at least one contour, each duct having a first end and a second end and being configured to internally accommodate the at least one cable connection element and at least one end of a cable. The first end of the duct may be engageable to the first sealing portion such that when the first sealing portion is engaged to the first end of the duct, a watertight seal is created between the first sealing portion and the first end of the duct. The second end of the duct may be disposed in the contour and engaged to a second sealing portion such that when the second sealing portion is engaged to the second end of the duct, a watertight seal is created between the second sealing portion and the second end of the duct and between the second sealing portion and the end of the cable. In this embodiment, the end of the cable is enclosed within a watertight volume when the first and second sealing portions are engaged to respective first and second ends of the duct.

Also, for purposes of clarity not every component may be labeled in every drawing.

It should be understood that the words "example" and "exemplary" are used herein to mean "serving as an example, instance, or illustration. " Any embodiment or feature described herein as being an "example" or "exemplary" should not be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments or features unless explicitly stated as such. In the following description, reference is made to the accompanying figures, which form a part of the present disclosure. Other embodiments may be utilized, and other changes may be made, without departing from the scope of the subject matter presented herein.

The example embodiments described herein are not meant to be limiting. It will be readily understood that the aspects of the present disclosure, as generally described herein and illustrated in the figures, can be arranged, substituted, combined, separated, and designed in a wide variety of different configurations, all of which are explicitly contemplated herein.

In one aspect, the present disclosure relates to connection enclosure assemblies adapted to create a watertight seal around connected cable ends. Cables used in such assemblies may be fiber optic cables comprising any number of fibers. In other examples not specifically referenced herein, cables may be electronic cables or other types of cables. These connection enclosure assemblies may in some cases also be referred to as single duct terminals. <FIG> illustrate a connection enclosure assembly <NUM> according to one embodiment. Assembly <NUM> is configured to provide a sealed enclosure around connected ends of at least two cable portions.

In the particular example shown in <FIG>, a connection between first cable portion <NUM> and second cable portion <NUM> is enclosed by assembly <NUM>. Specifically, an adapter <NUM> that receives first cable connector <NUM> at an end of first cable portion <NUM> and a second cable connector <NUM> of second cable portion <NUM> is sealed within assembly <NUM>. Assembly <NUM> includes, from one end to the other, a first sealing portion <NUM>, a grommet <NUM>, a duct <NUM> and a second sealing portion <NUM>. In some examples, duct <NUM> may be a tubular and cylindrically shaped structure, as shown in <FIG>. Duct <NUM> includes first and second stopper rings <NUM>, <NUM> positioned and sized to restrain axial movement of the sealing portions when assembly <NUM> is in an assembled state. In some examples, the stopper rings may be fabricated as integral with a remainder of the duct. In further examples, the stopper rings may be an attachable c-ring. In still further examples, a closed-loop stopper ring may be attachable over the duct to create stopper ring. In some instances, the ring may be inserted over the duct by first heating the ring. A weld or fasteners may be used to secure the stopper ring into place. In any of the above examples, the stopper ring may be complemented by an annular recess in the duct sized to receive the stopper ring.

Grommet <NUM> is sized for receipt in a lumen of duct <NUM> at first end <NUM>, and first sealing portion <NUM> is configured for slidable insertion over grommet <NUM> and first end <NUM> of duct <NUM>. First sealing portion <NUM> includes first grip portions <NUM> shaped to fit over an outer surface of duct, the first grip portions including projections <NUM> to engage first stopper ring <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. In this way, the grip portion functions as a catch by catching the stopper ring, the stopper ring having a larger diameter than other outer surfaces of the duct. The combination of first sealing portion <NUM> and grommet <NUM> provides a means for the creation of a watertight seal at first end <NUM> of the duct.

At second end <NUM> of duct <NUM>, second sealing portion <NUM> includes a receiving surface <NUM> configured for slidable insertion into second end <NUM> of duct. Receiving surface <NUM> may be a resilient material, such as rubber. In some examples, receiving surface is a surface of a pair of closed-loop rings disposed on a central support structure <NUM> within second sealing portion <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. Closed-loop rings as contemplated for use in the central support structure may be O-rings. In some examples, a diameter of the pair of rings in an unloaded condition is slightly larger than an inner diameter of the duct to aid in the creation of a water-tight seal when the duct is received over the receiving surface. Second sealing portion <NUM> also includes second grip portion <NUM> configured for slidable insertion over stopper ring <NUM> of duct <NUM> so that projections <NUM> on second grip portion <NUM> catch the stopper ring. In a closed condition, as shown in <FIG>, adapter <NUM> and first cable connector <NUM> are entirely enclosed by assembly <NUM> via a watertight seal.

Adapter <NUM> may be a device that is configured to operatively connect two different cable ends, including fiber optic cable ends. Such adapters may be single fiber connectors ("SC adapter"), lucent connectors ("LC adapter") miniature duplex connectors ("MDC adapter"), or MPO connectors ("MPO adapter"), among others. As depicted, adapter <NUM> includes ports to receive first cable connector <NUM> and second cable connector <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>.

Connection enclosure assembly <NUM> is advantageous in that it provides structure to ensure that a cable end is located within a watertight enclosure protected from external exposure. Further, the assembly is arranged so that it is not difficult to close or open, rendering it a straightforward process to connect and disconnect cable ends. The assembly is also advantageous in that duct <NUM> may have a tube shape or another similar shape that facilitates sliding of the duct into the first and second sealing end portions, even by hand. And, similarly, when used as part of a multi-cable terminal, the assembly is slidable into and out of portals in such multi-cable terminal. Additionally, when the duct is a tube, it is always universally symmetrical in cross-section, no matter its rotational position. In this manner, there is no need to check or adjust the rotational orientation of the duct once it is disposed in sealing portions at its ends or when it is disposed in a terminal. Yet another advantage is that a length of the duct may be adjusted or modified to suit field conditions where it will be used.

Parts of assembly <NUM> may be fabricated using various polymeric and metallic materials. For example, grommet <NUM> and a pair of rings defining receiving surface <NUM> may both be a rubber material, while duct <NUM> and outer structures of first and second sealing portions <NUM>, <NUM> may be other polymeric materials. The stopper rings may be a metal or hard plastic material. Adapter may be a polymeric material in some examples. Grip portions configured to catch surfaces on the duct may be made of resilient materials. Materials for the cable connectors may be a function of the type of cable used and/or the properties of the adapter. In further examples, composite materials or other combinations of materials may be used for one or more parts of the assembly.

<FIG> illustrates a connection enclosure assembly <NUM> according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Reference numerals in the <NUM>-series of reference numerals for connection enclosure assembly <NUM> refer to like elements in the <NUM>-series of reference numerals shown in <FIG>, unless otherwise noted. Assembly <NUM> includes a first sealing portion <NUM>, grommet <NUM>, duct <NUM>, adapter <NUM>, and second sealing portion <NUM>. Sealing portions <NUM>, <NUM> and duct <NUM> share the same structure as that of respective sealing portions and duct in assembly <NUM> shown in <FIG>. However, in this embodiment, the cable portion through the duct may be derived from two separate cable portions: First cable portion <NUM> and second cable portion <NUM>. These cable portions may be spliced and covered by splice protection tube <NUM>, thereby providing protection at the ends of the cable portions. By including a splice location remote from adapter <NUM>, an enclosure may be realized from a starting point where cable portions are already engaged at both ends of adapter <NUM>. In particular, such a starting point may be one where first cable connector <NUM> at end of second cable portion <NUM> is connected to adapter <NUM> and second cable connector (not shown) at an end of third cable portion <NUM> is connected to adapter <NUM>, both cable ends being preassembled to be connected to the adapter. It should be appreciated that to the extent the cable connections vary between the embodiment of <FIG> and the embodiment of <FIG>, either such arrangement may be employed in any of the embodiments contemplated by the present disclosure.

<FIG> illustrate a connection enclosure assembly <NUM> according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Reference numerals in the <NUM>-series of reference numerals for connection enclosure assembly <NUM> refer to like elements in the <NUM>-series of reference numerals shown in <FIG>, unless otherwise noted. Connection enclosure assembly <NUM> includes an outer enclosure <NUM> with an adapter <NUM> attached thereto, a grommet <NUM> and a duct <NUM>.

Outer enclosure <NUM> may be tubular in shape and extends from an open end with an annular ridge <NUM> to a closed end with a support holding adapter <NUM>. Outer enclosure <NUM> includes a window <NUM> so that cable run through the assembly is accessible before the outer enclosure receives a duct. At the open end of outer enclosure <NUM>, annular ridge <NUM> may be a stopper ring. And, also at the open end, a restraint in the form of a latch <NUM> is attached along with, optionally, a cable anchor <NUM>. Cable anchor <NUM> may have resilient material properties and may be configured for receiving a tie or strap to tie a cable extending out of assembly <NUM> in place. At the closed end of outer enclosure, a centrally disposed support extends inward into the lumen of the outer enclosure with adapter <NUM> attached at its end, as shown in <FIG>. On the support itself are a pair of rings that define a receiving surface <NUM>.

Turning to the details of the latch in particular, the latch mechanism may include a latch structure and a lever arm to lock the latch structure. In the example of assembly <NUM>, latch <NUM> includes lever arm <NUM> and closure arm <NUM>. Closure arm <NUM> further includes grip portion <NUM> with engagement features, such as protrusions <NUM>, to engage with outer enclosure <NUM>, such as through engagement with annular ridge <NUM>. Lever arm <NUM> and closure arm <NUM> are operatively connected to one another via arm pin <NUM> such that closure arm <NUM> rotates about a pin axis of arm pin. Further, lever arm <NUM> is operatively connected to outer enclosure <NUM> via a housing pin <NUM> separate from arm pin <NUM>. Latch <NUM> is arranged such that lever arm <NUM> is rotatable relative to outer enclosure <NUM> and closure arm <NUM>, with arm pin <NUM> moving about housing pin <NUM> as lever arm <NUM> is rotated, and housing pin <NUM> remaining stationary. Lever arm <NUM> may have an elongate shape while closure arm <NUM> may have a shape and size to fit over a perimeter of outer enclosure <NUM>, and may further include a slot <NUM> extending inward from an edge of closure arm <NUM> opposite lever arm <NUM>. Slot <NUM> may be sized so that when latch <NUM> is closed, a cable may pass therethrough. Further, in some examples where outer enclosure <NUM> includes a cable anchor <NUM>, such cable anchor may also pass through slot <NUM>. Latch <NUM> is configured to be adjustable from an open position as shown in <FIG> to a closed position shown in <FIG>. In the open position, closure arm <NUM> is loose so that an object, such as duct <NUM>, may be passed into outer enclosure <NUM>. In <FIG>, duct <NUM> is partially disposed in outer enclosure <NUM>, such disposal being made possible by the position of closure arm <NUM>. In <FIG>, duct <NUM> is fully disposed within outer enclosure <NUM> and sealed through closure of latch <NUM>, i.e., with contents inside duct <NUM> in a watertight enclosure.

A watertight seal may be created at both ends of the assembly. At a closed end of outer enclosure, receiving surface <NUM>, with a diameter that may be larger than an inner surface of duct <NUM>, is configured to receive second end <NUM> of duct <NUM>. First end <NUM> of duct <NUM> is configured to receive grommet <NUM> with latch <NUM> securing grommet <NUM> in place, as shown in <FIG>. Grip portion <NUM> engagement features are engageable with complementary engagement features on outer enclosure <NUM>. In <FIG> in particular, protrusion <NUM> catches annular ridge <NUM> to engage the latch with the outer enclosure. The closure of the duct using these features provides a watertight seal. In other examples, engagement features on grip portion <NUM> and outer enclosure <NUM> may vary from that shown in <FIG>. For example, annular ridge <NUM> may be a stopper ring disposed on the outer enclosure offset from an open end of the outer enclosure. The mechanics of using latch <NUM> to hold grommet <NUM> in place to create a seal are described in greater detail elsewhere in the present disclosure in the description of the methods of using connection enclosure assembly <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrate a connection enclosure assembly <NUM> according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Reference numerals in the <NUM>-series of reference numerals for connection enclosure assembly <NUM> refer to like elements in the <NUM>-series of reference numerals shown in <FIG>, unless otherwise noted. Assembly <NUM> includes a grommet <NUM>, a duct <NUM> and a sealing portion <NUM>.

Duct <NUM> extends from first end <NUM> to second end <NUM> with a lumen therethrough. Adjacent to first end <NUM> is an annular first stopper ring <NUM> and adjacent to second end <NUM> to a second stopper ring <NUM>. Such stopper rings may be separate elements slidably disposed on duct <NUM>, or may be formed integrally with duct <NUM>, and may be variations of stopper rings as described elsewhere in the present disclosure. Duct <NUM> also includes latch <NUM> attached to duct <NUM> at first stopper ring <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. Although latch <NUM> is attached in alignment with first stopper ring <NUM>, it should be appreciated that an attachment location between first latch <NUM> and duct <NUM> may be varied from that shown in the depicted embodiment. First latch <NUM> includes lever arm <NUM> and first closure arm <NUM>. First lever arm <NUM> includes second grip portion <NUM> extending from an elongate portion of the first lever arm. Second grip portion <NUM> has an inner surface shaped to conform to an outer surface of duct <NUM>. As shown, second grip portion <NUM> is c-shaped and has a curve that is approximately semi-circular in extent, or slightly more than <NUM> degrees around an outer surface of the duct. In some examples, the inner surface of second grip portion <NUM> may be biased inward so that second grip portion <NUM> may snap into place over the duct <NUM> to prevent its removal from the duct without the application of a pulling force. Engagement of second grip portion <NUM> with duct <NUM> is also known as duct catching. In the example shown, duct <NUM> is tube-shaped, and thus second grip portion has an annular-shaped inner surface with a sectional-dimension extending over a portion of a circumference of the duct. First closure arm <NUM> has a shape that complements a sectional shape of first end <NUM> of duct <NUM> with a slightly larger size to fit over such first end <NUM>. On an end face <NUM> of first closure arm <NUM> is a slot <NUM> extending from one side of the first closure arm to its sectional center. Also on an end face of first closure arm as an optional feature is first cable anchor <NUM>, positioned adjacent to slot <NUM>. In variations, the first cable anchor may be disposed at other locations on end face <NUM> surface. First closure arm <NUM> also includes first grip portion <NUM> extending in a direction opposite the end face, first grip portion <NUM> also having an outer profile matching that of the end face of first closure arm <NUM>. First grip portion <NUM> has an inner surface (not shown) to complement an outer surface of duct <NUM>, and a projection <NUM> or projections extending inward from first grip portion <NUM>. Such structure facilitates engagement between first closure arm <NUM> and duct <NUM>, as described in greater detail in the methods of the present disclosure. As a general matter, grip portion <NUM> is optional and provides additional support to hold the duct, while securement of closure arm <NUM> provides compression against grommet <NUM> into the duct to create a watertight seal.

Sealing portion <NUM> includes a support with receiving surface <NUM>, adapter <NUM>, second latch <NUM> and fourth grip portion <NUM>. Receiving surface <NUM> may be surfaces of a pair of rings configured for engagement with duct <NUM>. Second latch <NUM> includes a first lever arm <NUM> attached at a second housing axis <NUM>. First lever arm <NUM> includes a third grip portion <NUM>. The third grip portion may have the same structure as second grip portion <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>, such that third grip portion <NUM> is adapted to engage with duct <NUM> and prevented from backout by second stopper ring <NUM> when engaged. Fourth grip portion <NUM> includes a free end with an inner surface shaped to complement an outer surface of duct <NUM> at second end <NUM>, the inner surface including projection <NUM>. Fourth grip portion <NUM> has an elongate dimension such that when duct is fully advanced into sealing portion <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>, projection <NUM> catches and snaps over second stopper ring <NUM> to engage with the second stopper ring.

The connection enclosure assembly may be varied in many ways. While the depicted embodiments show a cylindrical tube-shaped duct, the duct may also have other shapes, such as ovular, partially rounded cross sections with some flat surfaces or even polygonal cross sections. Further, any single end features in any one of the depicted embodiments may be utilized in any other duct end for a connection enclosure assembly.

In another aspect, the present disclosure relates to a cable enclosure that is configured to receive one or more connection enclosure assemblies, i.e., single duct terminals. In many instances, the cable enclosure may include one or more multi-cable terminals. Such terminals not only protect cable connection points, but also serve to sort input feeder cable, i.e., main cable, into separate outputs, e.g., separate distribution or service cables. Such cable enclosure may serve as a system to protect cable connections against exposure to outdoor weather conditions.

One embodiment of a cable enclosure is shown in <FIG>. Cable enclosure <NUM> includes an input cable housing <NUM> and a multi-cable terminal housing <NUM> disposed thereon. Input cable housing <NUM> serves to receive feeder cable, described here as a main cable 1005A, B, into cable enclosure <NUM>, while housing <NUM> includes one or more connection enclosure assemblies 1010A-1010F to distribute service cables fed into the respective connection enclosure assemblies from the main cable. For cable enclosure <NUM> in particular, and as shown in <FIG>, six different connection enclosure assemblies 1010A-1010F are disposed in multi-cable terminal housing <NUM>. And, each of these is arranged in a linear alignment in parallel and through a single plane. Put another way, the arrangement of the connection enclosure assemblies is flat over the input cable housing. In a variation, a plurality of connection enclosure assemblies may be arranged within the single plane but with two or more of the assemblies non-parallel with each other. Such an arrangement may be characterized as a two-dimensional alignment, which also encompasses the linear alignment shown in <FIG>.

Input cable housing <NUM> may be an enclosed frame such as that shown in <FIG> with openings on a wall or walls of the enclosure to receive a main cable portion. Such main cable portion may be one or more duct structures. In <FIG>, the main cable portion is two main cables 1005A, 1005B. Each main cable 1005A, 1005B is configured to carry one or more inner cables <NUM> therethrough, as also shown in <FIG>. Main cables 1005A, 1005B may take the form of a multiple of fibers contained within a cable jacket, or a multiple of smaller cables contained within a cable jacket. Further, in the case of a cable portion taking the form of smaller cables contained within a cable jacket, each of the smaller cables may, in turn, take the form of a single fiber within a cable jacket, a multiple of fibers within a cable jacket, or a multiple of smaller cables within a cable jacket. Also, main cables 1005A, 1005B may be respective parts of two distinct cables, or may be parts of a single cable.

The input cable housing may be square, rectangular, or any other shape. In some examples, a shape of input cable housing matches that of multi-cable terminal housing <NUM> to minimize a volume occupied by cable enclosure <NUM>. Input cable housing <NUM> may also include latches, openings or other engagement features where such features may complement similar features on multi-cable terminal housing <NUM> to secure input cable housing <NUM> to multi-cable terminal housing <NUM>. This is shown in <FIG>, for example, where screws may be used to secure external engagement features on the walls of the respective housings <NUM>, <NUM>.

Multi-cable terminal housing <NUM> may be an enclosed frame as shown in <FIG>, with an open region in between a base portion <NUM> and a distribution portion <NUM>. The connection enclosure assemblies may be received in multi-cable terminal housing <NUM> such that a length of each duct may span a distance between base portion <NUM> and distribution portion <NUM>. Securement of each connection enclosure assembly 1010A-1010F may be via receipt of the respective assemblies in contoured surfaces within housing <NUM>, such as receipt in a respective enclosed channel 1011A-F in distribution portion <NUM> (in <FIG>, channel 1011A is indicated). Channels 1011A-F correspond to insertion pathways for assemblies 1010A-1010F, respectively. In this way, one end of the duct is received over a receiving surface, e.g., a surface of a pair of rings, at the base portion while an opposite end is received in an enclosed channel in the distribution portion. More specifically, and with reference to first connection enclosure assembly 1010A as an example, a receiving surface 1051A support structure adjacent to adapter 1050A is supported in place within an opening in base portion <NUM>, with duct 1020A receivable on receiving surface 1051A. And, an opposite end of duct 1020A is receivable within enclosed channel 1011A in distribution portion <NUM>.

Optionally, housing <NUM> may further include additional contoured surfaces in the form of open-faced channels (e.g., open-faced channel 1003A shown in <FIG>) spanning a distance between base portion <NUM> and distribution portion <NUM>. Such open-faced channels may have partial c-shaped cross-sections sized to receive ducts of connection enclosure assemblies and may be positioned in alignment with respective insertion paths for each connection enclosure assembly 1010A-F between respective enclosed channels and receiving surfaces. In variations of the multi-cable terminal housing that include open-faced channels, such as housing <NUM> shown in <FIG>, duct 1020A of first connection enclosure assembly 1010A may be slid along a respective one of such open-faced channels, i.e., channel 1003A, as the leading end of the duct is advanced into engagement with a receiving surface, i.e., receiving surface 1051A. These open-faced channels provide additional support for passage of ducts into the terminal housing and ensure that the ducts are advanced in the correct alignment to be received at a proper receiving surface at the base portion.

Multi-cable terminal housing <NUM> also includes latches 1060A-F attached in a row on distribution portion <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. Each latch is configured to secure a connection enclosure assembly received through a complementary enclosed channel 1011A-F below a respective latch 1060A-F. Optionally, one or more cable anchors 1036A-F may be attached to distribution portion <NUM> facing away from the housing structure. Each cable anchor may be positioned in alignment with a respective enclosed channel, e.g. channel 1011A, as shown in <FIG>. As yet another option, one or more of the cable anchors may be fitted with a strap or straps 1038A-F, as shown in <FIG>. Such straps are configured to hold a service cable exiting the housing for distribution. in some examples, straps may be substituted with cable ties. Further details of methods of using cable enclosure <NUM> are provided elsewhere in the disclosure in the description of the methods.

In the arrangement shown in <FIG>, connection enclosure assemblies 1010A-F include components as follows, with reference to first connection enclosure assembly 1010A as representative. First connection enclosure assembly 1010A includes grommet 1040A, duct 1020A and receiving base with adapter 1050A. Connection enclosure assembly 1010A is adapted to receive internal cable 1014A via internal cable connection 1015A on a first side of adapter 1050A and enclose a service cable connector 1013A of service cable 1012A on the other side of the adapter. Although cable enclosure <NUM> is depicted with connection enclosure assemblies 1010A-F, it is contemplated that other variations of connection enclosure assemblies as contemplated by the present disclosure may also be incorporated into the cable enclosure. Further, depending on the characteristics of the connection enclosure assembly used, receiving surfaces on multi-cable terminal housing may be modified for holding such connection enclosure assemblies. For example, if the multi-cable terminal is configured to receive connection enclosure assemblies <NUM>, each opening in base portion <NUM> may be modified to have internal contoured surfaces to receive a respective sealing portion <NUM>.

Materials for components of the multi-cable terminal assembly included in cable enclosure <NUM> may be as described for the connection enclosure assembly elsewhere in the present disclosure. Materials of the additional housings and cable protection may be those materials deemed suitable for outdoor exposure and appropriate based on expected exposure to fiber optics or the other contents of the cables, as appropriate.

In another embodiment, a cable enclosure <NUM> may be arranged as shown in <FIG>. Reference numerals in the <NUM>-series of reference numerals for cable enclosure <NUM> refer to like elements in the <NUM>-series of reference numerals, unless otherwise noted. Cable enclosure <NUM> includes a multi-cable terminal housing <NUM> and an input cable housing <NUM>, the multi-cable terminal housing being positioned on the input cable housing. In the depicted arrangement, input cable housing <NUM> has a cylindrical base structure, receiving ends of main cables 1105A-C at one end, as shown in <FIG>. Multi-cable terminal housing <NUM> is shaped to conform to the cylindrical shape of the input cable housing so that a bottom surface of multi-cable terminal housing has a partially annular, concave shape to sit flush on the input cable housing. When multi-cable terminal housing <NUM> has received six connection enclosure assemblies 1110A-F, as shown in <FIG>, such assemblies are parallel to each other but define a curved, partially circular profile in section. In variations, the curve may have a varying radius of curvature such that the alignment of the assemblies is not exactly circular.

In another embodiment, a cable enclosure <NUM> may be arranged as shown in <FIG>. Reference numerals in the <NUM>-series of reference numerals for cable enclosure <NUM> refer to like elements in the <NUM>-series of reference numerals, unless otherwise noted. Cable enclosure <NUM> includes a pair of multi-cable terminal housing structures 1202A, 1202B that enclose an input cable housing <NUM> in between, as shown in <FIG>. Housing structures 1202A, 1202B may be secured to input cable housing <NUM> via complementary connection mechanisms. In <FIG>, such connection features 1292A, 1292B, <NUM> are external to the multi-cable terminal housings and the input cable housing. These connection features may be secured to one another via screws, for example. Main cables 1205A, 1205B extend into input cable housing as shown. In the arrangement of <FIG>, an increase in the depth of the cable enclosure, even with the same footprint, allows for the inclusion of twelve connection enclosure assemblies in place of the six that would be included in examples of a cable enclosure having a single multi-cable terminal housing structure.

In another embodiment, a cable enclosure <NUM> may be arranged as shown in <FIG>. Reference numerals in the <NUM>-series of reference numerals for cable enclosure <NUM> refer to like elements in the <NUM>-series of reference numerals, unless otherwise noted. In <FIG>, cable enclosure <NUM> is shown inclusive of a multi-cable terminal housing <NUM>. However, it should be appreciated that such cable enclosure may be complemented by an input cable housing such as, in one example, input cable housing <NUM> shown in <FIG>. Multi-cable terminal housing <NUM> includes a frame with end structures in the form of base portion <NUM> and distribution portion <NUM>. Base portion <NUM> includes internal passages to receive internal cables being fed from a main cable, i.e., feeder cable (not shown). In the particular arrangement depicted, there are eleven enclosed channels within base portion <NUM> entering a central open region of multi-cable terminal housing <NUM>. Six in a bottom row, and five in a top row, corresponding to ends of connection enclosure assemblies 1310A-<NUM> received at base portion <NUM>. Distribution portion <NUM> includes eleven enclosed channels passing entirely through the distribution portion and oriented such that a longitudinal axis of each enclosed channel extends toward base portion <NUM> in one direction and passes out of the housing at end face <NUM> of the distribution portion in the other. Each enclosed channel is sized to receive a connection enclosure assembly 1310A-<NUM>. The arrangement of the enclosed channels, with a zig-zag type pattern when viewed in section, may also be described as a honeycomb shaped alignment.

Cable enclosure <NUM> also includes latches 1360A-D disposed on a top surface of distribution portion, each having a hinged attachment configured to cover enclosed channels 1011A-K on end face <NUM>. Each latch is sized to cover more than one enclosed channel. Latch 1360A is representative of the latches on cable enclosure <NUM> and is described in detail for purposes of conveying certain features of the latches. However, it should be appreciated that the particular shape of each latch may vary somewhat from that shown for latch 1360A, although the principal operation of each latch is similar. For example, latch 1360C covers two enclosed channels in its closed position, as shown in <FIG>, rather than three enclosed channels. Latch 1360A includes lever arm 1362A and closure arm 1364A. Lever arm 1362A is hingedly attached to distribution portion <NUM> via housing pin <NUM> such that lever arm 1362A is rotatable about an axis through the housing pin. Further, closure arm 1364A is hingedly attached to lever arm <NUM> via arm pin <NUM> such that closure arm 1364A is rotatable relative to the lever arm about an axis through arm pin. Closure arm 1364A flares outward from the arm pin to a free end with hook-shaped grips 1366A. A body of closure arm 1364A includes three separate slots 1381A, 1382A, 1383A each oriented lengthwise along closure arm <NUM> and extending from the free end and terminating internally within the closure arm. Each slot may include a bulbous opening shape at its enclosed end region, as shown in <FIG>. Closure arm 1364A is sized so that when closed over end face <NUM> of distribution portion <NUM>, the closure arm prevents backout of three separate connection enclosure assemblies. For latch 1360A, these include connection enclosure assemblies 1310A, 1310F, <NUM>. Closure arm 1364A is also configured such that grips 1366A are securable to notch <NUM> on a bottom surface of the distribution portion.

It should also be appreciated that cable enclosure <NUM>, having two layers of connection enclosure assemblies, may include a modified structure for receipt of connection enclosure assemblies in the top row. In <FIG>, this encompasses connection enclosure assemblies 1310A-1310E. Specifically, each of the enclosures on the top row includes a narrower segment adjacent to the base portion <NUM>, these narrower segments referred to as base ducts. Having base ducts in the top row provides improved access to connection locations in the lower row of connection enclosure assemblies, i.e., assemblies 1310F-K in <FIG>, to aid in connection and sealing of cable ends in the lower row. For example, and as shown in <FIG>, with the narrower base ducts on the upper row, the service cable end <NUM> of connection enclosure assembly <NUM> is accessible from above.

In some examples, base ducts 1328A-E may be separate from connection enclosure assemblies 1310A-E and may be fabricated as attached to base portion <NUM> before receipt of such connection enclosure assemblies, as is shown in <FIG>. One example of how the base duct appears before receipt of a connection enclosure assembly is shown via base duct 1328A in <FIG>. Further, and with continued reference to base duct 1328A as representative, a central support with receiving surface 1351A and adapter 1350A are pre-attached to and/or integral with base duct 1328A as part of multi-cable terminal housing <NUM>. In this manner, cable enclosure <NUM> is configured such that ducts 1320A-E, i.e., ducts receivable in the upper row, are shorter than those in the lower row, the leading ends of which are received at receiving surfaces protruding significantly from the base duct. Thus, a leading end of duct 1320A is advanceable over receiving surface 1351A to create a sealed connection, as described in greater detail elsewhere in the present disclosure. With continued reference to base duct 1328A, an inner cable fed from a main cable may be run through base duct 1328A and into an end of adapter 1350A opposite the end located to receive service cable end 1313A.

In other examples, the base duct may be part of the connection enclosure assembly itself, as shown in cable enclosure <NUM>' in <FIG>. Reference numerals in the <NUM>'-series of reference numerals for cable enclosure <NUM>' refer to like elements in the <NUM>-series of reference numerals, unless otherwise noted. Cable enclosure <NUM>' is substantively the same as cable enclosure <NUM> but for two differences. The base ducts in the upper row each form part of a respective connection enclosure assembly. Specifically, base ducts 1328A'-1328E' are part of connection enclosure assemblies 1310A'-1310E', respectively. And, receiving surfaces and adapters for each connection enclosure assembly in the top row are directly attached to base portion <NUM>', as shown, for example, by receiving surface 1351A' and adapter 1350A' in <FIG>. In the depicted embodiment, a leading end of the base ducts may have a slightly larger relative diameter for a limited length commensurate with that necessary to accommodate passage of the base duct over the adapter when the base duct is closed over a respective receiving surface.

One advantage of cable enclosures <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM>' is that such enclosures minimize a volume occupied by the enclosure relative to the number of protected cable end connections provided. For instance, cable enclosure <NUM> utilizes both a top and bottom surface of input cable housing <NUM> to distribute connection enclosure assemblies in two rows, while cable enclosures <NUM>, <NUM>' utilize a honeycomb arrangement to maximize the number of connection enclosure assemblies within the multi-cable terminal.

In another embodiment, a multi-cable terminal <NUM> may be arranged as shown in <FIG>. Reference numerals in the <NUM>-series of reference numerals for multi-cable terminal <NUM> refer to like elements in the <NUM>-series of reference numerals, unless otherwise noted. Multi-cable terminal <NUM> includes a multi-cable terminal housing <NUM>, a main cable <NUM>, and is configured to receive a plurality of connection enclosure assemblies. In the example depicted in <FIG>, main cable <NUM> is on a receiving face of multi-cable terminal housing <NUM> and the housing includes seven passages or access openings on a distribution face <NUM> opposite the receiving face to receive up to seven connection enclosure assemblies, such as connection enclosure assemblies 1410A-<NUM>. It should be appreciated that in other examples, main cable <NUM> may include two or more separate input locations on the housing and may also enter the housing on distribution face <NUM>.

Each connection enclosure assembly 1410A-<NUM> is similar to connection enclosure assembly <NUM> shown in <FIG>, and like reference numerals in the <NUM> series of numerals for connection enclosure assembly <NUM> refer to like elements in the <NUM> series of numerals, unless otherwise stated below. Connection enclosure assembly 1410A, representative of assemblies 1410A-G, includes an outer enclosure 1428A configured to receive duct 1420A. An end of outer enclosure 1428A opposite latch 1460A, configured for receipt in multi-cable terminal housing <NUM>, includes a resilient extension portion 1493A that extends from a body of outer enclosure 1428A to the housing. Resilient extension portion 1493A is configured to securely engage with multi-cable terminal housing <NUM> and may have a tapered portion and narrower diameter than a remainder of the outer enclosure. Resilient extension portion may have resilient material properties such that a rotational position of connection enclosure assembly 1410A may be manipulated relative to the housing, as shown for connection enclosure assemblies 1410A, 1410B, 1410C and 1410E in <FIG>. Exemplary materials for the extension portion may be PVC, nylon, durable plastics adapted for outdoor environments, bendable sealed metal conduit or outside plant fiber optic cable, for example. In instances where PVC, nylon or durable plastics are used, such materials may optionally be supplemented by an internally disposed metal layer that may provide reinforcement and/or preserve a desired angulation of a connection enclosure assembly. It should be appreciated that in variations, a quantity of connection enclosure assemblies receivable in the multi-cable terminal housing may vary from that shown. Additionally, as an option, any number of the ducts of assemblies 1410A-<NUM> may be bundled together with a strap.

In another embodiment, a multi-cable terminal <NUM> may be arranged as shown in <FIG>. Reference numerals in the <NUM>-series of reference numerals for multi-cable terminal <NUM> refer to like elements in the <NUM>-series of reference numerals, unless otherwise noted. Multi-cable terminal <NUM> includes multi-cable terminal housing <NUM>, main cable <NUM> and is configured to receive a plurality of connection enclosure assemblies. In the example depicted in <FIG>, multi-cable terminal housing <NUM> includes seven passages or access openings on a distribution face <NUM> to receive up to seven connection enclosure assemblies, such as connection enclosure assemblies 1510A-<NUM>. Each connection enclosure assembly 1510A-<NUM> is similar to connection enclosure assembly <NUM> shown in <FIG>, and like reference numerals in the <NUM> series of numerals refer to like elements in the <NUM> series of numerals, unless otherwise stated below. Further, as with connection enclosure assemblies 1410A-<NUM>, each connection enclosure assembly 1510A-G includes a resilient extension portion, such as extension portion 1591A for assembly 1510A. It should be appreciated that in variations, a quantity of connection enclosure assemblies receivable in the multi-cable terminal housing may vary from that shown. Additionally, as an option, any number of the ducts of assemblies 1510A-<NUM> may be bundled together with a strap.

The cable enclosures described in this application may be varied in many ways. For example, any contemplated cable enclosure may instead be a standalone multi-cable terminal without an input cable housing. In other examples, a quantity of connection enclosure assemblies may vary relative to the number included in the contemplated multi-cable terminals, having more or fewer than the quantity described. In further examples, and for the avoidance of doubt, any of the contemplated multi-cable terminal housings may include additional structure between the base portion and distribution portion to support and align ducts received in the multi-cable terminal housing. For example, a series of contoured surfaces in the form of concave troughs, e.g., open-faced channels, may be disposed within the multi-cable terminal housing such that an elongate dimension of each trough extends between the base portion and the distribution portion. A multi-cable terminal housing may include a trough for each enclosed channel sized to receive a connection enclosure assembly, and may be longitudinally aligned with a respective enclosed channel. In some examples, a quantity of main cable inputs and their entry location on the multi-cable terminal housing may vary from that shown in the depicted embodiments. Contemplated embodiments may have one, two, three or more main cable input locations.

Another embodiment of a cable enclosure is shown in <FIG> is a perspective view of cable enclosure <NUM> according to one embodiment. The cable enclosure <NUM> includes a housing <NUM> having a main portion <NUM>, a sealing assembly <NUM>, and one or two multi-cable terminals <NUM>, 1002A. In <FIG>, multi-cable terminal housing <NUM> is indicated schematically as one example of the multi-cable terminal, although it should be appreciated that other multi-cable terminals as contemplated by the present disclosure may also be included. Where two multi-cable terminal housings are included, such terminals may be disposed on opposing surfaces, as shown in <FIG>. The terminals may be mounted on main portion <NUM> or may be integral with the main portion. The sealing assembly <NUM> may be configured to accommodate two main cables 1605A and 1605B. One or more fibers from the two main cables 1605A and 1605B are coupled to the multi-cable terminal <NUM>, which includes multiple connection enclosure assemblies.

<FIG> is an exploded perspective view of cable enclosure <NUM> and illustrates its parts and internal cable routing disposed in the enclosure. As can be seen from the figure, the sealing assembly <NUM> may be made up of two halves, a first half 1615A and a second half 1615B, and the cable enclosure <NUM> may include a slack tray <NUM>, a splice tray <NUM>, an option module <NUM>, and a separator <NUM>. The slack tray <NUM>, splice tray <NUM>, option module <NUM>, and separator <NUM> are internal to the cable enclosure <NUM> when the enclosure is fully assembled. Although depicted in a particular order of disposal of one over another within main portion <NUM>, the trays and separator may be overlaid in any order within the housing.

The option module <NUM> is an optional element and may or may not be included in the cable enclosures described in this disclosure. The option module <NUM> may include any one or more of a splitter, a tap filter, a wavelength division multiplexer (WDM) filter, an opto-electronics module, and the like.

In <FIG>, main cable 1605A includes a multiple of sub-cables <NUM>, and main cable 1605B includes a multiple of sub-cables <NUM>. One or more of the sub-cables <NUM>, <NUM>, that is one or more of the cables taken from either sub-cables <NUM> or sub-cables <NUM>, or from both sub-cables <NUM> and sub-cables <NUM>, is routed from the slack tray <NUM> to the splice tray <NUM>, illustrated by cable <NUM> in <FIG>. At the splice tray <NUM>, one or more fibers from cable <NUM>, illustrated by fiber <NUM>, is spliced to one or more fibers from an intermediate cable <NUM>, illustrated by fiber <NUM>. Intermediate cable <NUM> also has slack stored in slack tray <NUM> and is routed between the slack tray <NUM> and the option module <NUM>. The intermediate cable <NUM> is coupled to the option module <NUM>. Further, an internal cable <NUM> coupled to the option module <NUM> passes through the separator <NUM> and is routed to one of the connection enclosure assemblies 1010A-F of multi-cable terminal housing <NUM>.

Regarding the option module <NUM>, if the option module <NUM> is not included in cable enclosure <NUM>, the cable <NUM> may be routed directly from the slack tray <NUM> to the separator <NUM>, and pass through the separator <NUM> such that the internal cable <NUM> is merely a continuation of the cable <NUM>.

Regarding cables <NUM> and <NUM>, the cables are used merely as illustrations. The number of cables passing from the splice tray <NUM> to the slack tray <NUM> and on to the option module <NUM> is not limited to one cable, and may be a multiple of cables. Similarly, the number of cables passing from the option module <NUM> to the multi-cable terminal housing <NUM> is not limited to one cable, and may be a multiple of cables.

As can be seen from both <FIG>, the sealing assembly <NUM> of the housing <NUM> may be coupled to the main portion <NUM> of the housing <NUM> by a plurality of screws <NUM>, although upon viewing this disclosure one skilled in the art will readily appreciate the numerous alternative techniques for coupling the sealing assembly <NUM> to the main portion <NUM>. For example, a draw-latch may be included for coupling. In another example, a sealing clamp ring sized for disposal around a perimeter of the sealing assembly-main portion interface may be included for coupling.

Cable enclosure <NUM> may be varied in many ways. For example, cable enclosure <NUM> may be modified in any manner contemplated in commonly-owned <CIT>. Further, cable enclosure <NUM>, along with all other contemplated cable enclosures, may include any number of main cables as inputs into the cable enclosure, and upon viewing this disclosure one skilled in the art will readily appreciate how the embodiments of the disclosure can be implemented with one, two, three, or more main cables. Moreover, the cable enclosure <NUM>, as well as the other cable enclosures described in the present disclosure, may be configured for affixing to a holding structure. For example, cable enclosure <NUM> may include openings (not shown) for receiving screws that affix the cable enclosure <NUM> to a hanger that is, in turn, used to suspend the cable enclosure <NUM> from a wall or pole mount.

In another aspect, the present disclosure relates to kits. In some embodiments, a kit may include one or more cable enclosures. In other embodiments, a kit may include one or more connection enclosure assemblies. In some embodiments, a kit may include at least one cable enclosure and at least one connection enclosure assembly. Some embodiments may include a variety of cable enclosure types and/or connection enclosure assembly types in a single kit. In still further embodiments, a kit may include a multi-cable terminal in place of or in addition to a connection enclosure assembly, or a plurality of connection enclosure assemblies may themselves be a multi-cable terminal.

In yet another aspect, the present disclosure relates to methods of fabricating a connection enclosure assembly and/or a cable enclosure. Components of a connection enclosure assembly may be assembled prior to delivery to a work site, for example, at a factory. Optionally, single connection enclosure assemblies may be fabricated with cable portions prepared for use with the connection enclosure assembly prior to delivery. Components of a cable enclosure may be assembled prior to delivery to a work site. For example, a multi-cable terminal may be preassembled with an input cable housing at a fabrication site, such as a factory.

In yet another aspect, the present disclosure relates to methods of using one or more components of the contemplated cable end sealing structures. In one embodiment, cable portions <NUM>, <NUM> are secured to one another and enclosed in a watertight sealed volume using connection enclosure assembly <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. First, cable connector <NUM> is connected to adapter <NUM> so that both cable portions are in operative communication with each other. It should be recognized that second cable portion <NUM> may already at this time be connected to adapter <NUM> via second cable connector <NUM> disposed within second sealing portion <NUM>. With cable ends connected, the method proceeds with securement of duct <NUM> to second sealing portion <NUM>. For second sealing portion <NUM>, duct <NUM> is received between upper and lower parts of second grip portion <NUM> such that when duct <NUM> is fully received, projections <NUM> snap or catch over second stopper ring <NUM> to hold duct <NUM> in place relative to second sealing portion <NUM>. In this manner, stopper ring <NUM>, and indeed other stopper rings contemplated by the present disclosure, function as a mechanical grip for the projections of the sealing portion. Additionally, receiving surface <NUM> engages an inner surface of duct <NUM> to seal second end <NUM>. Securement of second sealing portion <NUM> is followed by securement of first sealing portion <NUM>. Prior to closure of the first sealing portion, grommet <NUM> is advanced toward and disposed within the lumen of duct <NUM> from first end <NUM>. If cable portion <NUM> has slack, it may be made taught prior to and/or during advancement of the grommet. First sealing portion <NUM> is then advanced over first end <NUM> of duct <NUM> and projections <NUM> snap over first stopper ring <NUM>. This action causes the grommet to compress and create a watertight seal with the duct while also, through the catch of projections <NUM> over stopper ring <NUM>, holding first sealing portion <NUM> against first end <NUM> of duct <NUM>.

In one embodiment, cable portions <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> are secured to one another and enclosed in a watertight sealed volume using connection enclosure assembly <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. In this configuration, the method of using the assembly to seal the cable portions is the same as that described for assembly <NUM> although further including an additional initial step. In this arrangement, third cable portion <NUM> is pre-attached to adapter <NUM> within second sealing portion <NUM> and a second cable portion <NUM> may be pre-attached to adapter <NUM>. In this manner, operative connection of first cable portion <NUM> and third cable portion <NUM> may be accomplished through a splice connection between first and second cable portions <NUM>, <NUM>. In one example, a splice is accomplished with the aid of a splice protection tube <NUM>. Once the cables are operatively connected, sealing of the cable-ends may be as described for connection enclosure assembly <NUM>. In a variant, the spliced connection may be completed first, followed by securement of second cable portion <NUM> to adapter <NUM>. It should be appreciated that in any embodiment, it is contemplated that a first cable portion may have two parts connected by a splice, which may include a splice protection tube, and that such spliced connection may be completed before or during use of the connection enclosure assembly.

In one embodiment, cable portions <NUM> and <NUM> are secured to one another and enclosed in a watertight sealed volume using connection enclosure assembly <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. The method begins by either splicing first and second cable portions <NUM>, <NUM> in circumstances where second cable portion <NUM> is already engaged to adapter <NUM>, or by also securing second cable portion <NUM> to adapter <NUM> as part of the process of operatively connecting all cable portions. Once cable portions <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> are operatively connected to one another, duct <NUM> is slid into a lumen of outer enclosure <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. As duct <NUM> is advanced over a receiving surface <NUM> adjacent to adapter <NUM>, a window <NUM> is entirely blocked by duct <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. Interaction between an inner surface of duct <NUM> and receiving surface <NUM> forms a seal therebetween. At this position, a first end <NUM> of duct is fully within outer enclosure <NUM>. Grommet <NUM> may then be slid into a lumen at first end <NUM> of duct, followed by actuation of latch <NUM>. First, closure arm <NUM> is rotated over grommet <NUM> at the end of outer enclosure <NUM>, and projection <NUM> on closure arm <NUM> snaps over annular ridge <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. To lock latch <NUM>, lever arm <NUM> is then pushed downward from its free end so that it lies over outer enclosure <NUM>. Lever arm <NUM> may have a length sufficient to provide a tight mechanical lock through the mechanism, while remaining easy to operate. This operation forms a watertight seal at the latch-end of connection enclosure assembly <NUM>, thereby sealing all contents within the lumen of duct <NUM>.

In one embodiment, cable portions <NUM> and <NUM> are secured to one another and enclosed in a watertight sealed volume using connection enclosure assembly <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. The method begins with connection of first cable connector <NUM> to adapter <NUM>, a spliced connection between first and second cable portions <NUM>, <NUM>, or both. The method continues by securing duct <NUM> over sealing portion <NUM>. Specifically, second end <NUM> of duct <NUM> is slid over receiving surface <NUM>, e.g., a pair of rings on a central support element of sealing portion <NUM>, to create a watertight seal. When second end <NUM> of duct <NUM> is advanced sufficiently over receiving surface <NUM>, projection <NUM> of fourth grip portion <NUM> snaps over second stopper ring <NUM>. From this position, first lever arm <NUM> of second latch <NUM> is rotated about second housing axis <NUM> to bring third grip portion <NUM> over an outer surface of duct <NUM> such that the third grip portion sits distally beyond second stopper ring <NUM> relative to second housing axis <NUM>. And, in this manner, sealing portion <NUM> is externally secured to duct <NUM> at two locations: projections <NUM> over second stopper ring <NUM> and third grip portion <NUM> over second stopper ring <NUM>. Each of these connections prevents axial translation of duct <NUM> relative to sealing portion <NUM>. This completes the closure at sealing portion <NUM>. For securement of latch <NUM>, grommet <NUM> is disposed over first end <NUM> of the duct, and then first closure arm <NUM> is rotated over grommet <NUM> so that projections <NUM> snap over first stopper ring <NUM>. Then, first lever arm <NUM> is rotated over duct <NUM> so that second grip portion <NUM> snaps into place on the outer surface of duct <NUM>. These actions complete the creation of a watertight seal for the contents of the duct. Further, even though first closure arm <NUM> passes over grommet <NUM> to close first end <NUM> of duct, first closure arm <NUM> includes a slot <NUM> so that first cable portion <NUM> is uninterrupted by such locking action. Optionally, straps or ties may be used to secure first cable portion <NUM> to cable anchor <NUM>.

In one embodiment, a cable enclosure <NUM> as shown in <FIG> is used at a site determined to be suitable for placement of the cable enclosure to distribute service cable to end use locations. During use, feeder cable may be run through input cable housing <NUM> and spliced or otherwise separated to run as internal cable into one or more of the connection enclosure assemblies. In other embodiments, cable may be pre-fed into input cable housing <NUM> at a fabrication stage such that source feeder cable may be spliced into the cable entering input cable housing <NUM> externally to cable enclosure <NUM>. When ready for preparation of all service cable enclosures, one or more connection enclosure assemblies may be inserted into multi-cable terminal housing <NUM>. In the case of cable enclosure <NUM>, six connection enclosure assemblies 1010A-F may be included. The method for preparing each connection enclosure assembly within housing <NUM> may be the same, and is described here for connection enclosure assembly 1010A as representative.

Service cable 1012A is run through housing <NUM> and service cable connector 1013A is attached to adapter 1050A, as shown in <FIG>. Duct 1020A is then passed through enclosed channel 1011A in distribution portion <NUM> of housing <NUM>, and further to engage with receiving surface 1051A, e.g., a pair of rings disposed over a central support adjacent to the adapter. Grommet 1040A is then pressed against duct 1020A, and closure arm 1064A is rotated and brought over grommet 1040A until a hook-end of closure arm 1064A snaps over notch 1008A, as shown in <FIG>. From this position, lever arm <NUM> is rotated over duct 1020A, to tighten the enclosure of closure arm 1064A pressed against grommet 1040A, as shown in <FIG>. Closure arm 1064A may have resilient material properties to facilitate the motion shown between <FIG> and to create tension in the closure arm 1064A when latch 1060A is moved into a fully locked position. In the example shown, it can be seen that a distance between arm pin 1069A and notch 1008A decreases when lever arm <NUM> is pulled into the locked position. In some variations, the grommet may be sized such that it protrudes further from the housing than grommet <NUM>, in turn minimizing any change in a distance between pin 1069A and notch 1008A during movement of the latch between the open and closed positions. In such a variation, the grommet has a more significant biasing function. In other variations, a surface within the notch may be supplemented with a resilient material filling, such as a rubber filling, to enhance the engagement between the closure arm and the notch. In other variations, pin 1069A may include a spring-loaded movable feature supported by an elongated slot. In one example, the spring-loaded movable feature may be biased in a compressed state in the open position of <FIG> and tensioned when the latch is actuated into the closed or locked position shown in <FIG>. The method of locking the latch may be repeated for any number of additional connection enclosure assemblies, such as assemblies 1010B-1010F. Optionally, one or more service cables extending out of cable enclosure <NUM> may be strapped to a respective cable anchor 1036A for added control of cable distribution, as shown in <FIG>.

In one embodiment, a cable enclosure <NUM> as shown in <FIG> is used at a site determined to be suitable for placement of the cable enclosure to distribute service cable to end use locations. Use of cable enclosure <NUM> may be the same as described for cable enclosure <NUM> above.

In one embodiment, a cable enclosure <NUM> as shown in <FIG> is used at a site determined to be suitable for placement of the cable enclosure to distribute service cable to end use locations. While feeding of cable into cable enclosure <NUM> via main cables 1205A, 1205B may be the same as that described for cable enclosure <NUM>, further separation and or splitting may be utilized to direct the feeder cable, i.e., main cable (not shown) into respective connection enclosure assemblies, 1210A-1210F above input cable housing <NUM> and connection enclosure assemblies (partially shown) below input cable housing <NUM>.

In one embodiment, a cable enclosure <NUM> as shown in <FIG> is used at a site determined to be suitable for placement of the cable enclosure to distribute service cable to end use locations. During use of cable enclosure <NUM>, the lower row connection enclosure assemblies 1310F-<NUM> may be deposited into multi-cable terminal housing <NUM> in the same manner described for cable enclosure <NUM>. For the upper row of assemblies, an adapter and surrounding area is accessible in a middle region of the housing between base portion <NUM> and distribution portion <NUM>. While the adapter access location in the housing for the upper row is offset relative to that in the lower row, the steps of connecting and sealing cable ends is the same. For example, cable end 1313A may be connected to adapter 1350A, then duct 1320A may be sealed via advancement of duct 1320A over receiving surface 1351A and closure of latch 1360A. Because of the space between base ducts 1328A-E, it is not necessary to close all pertinent connection enclosure assemblies in the lower row before closing those on the upper row. This is evident from <FIG>, where it can be seen that all upper row connection enclosure assemblies 1310A-E are closed, while duct <NUM> for connection enclosure assembly <NUM> is not fully received in the housing. Because there is space to access cable end <NUM> between the upper base ducts, the method is not impeded by this order of duct insertion. Of course, as with other contemplated cable enclosures, a main cable may be fed as internal cable into each respective adapter so that when a service cable end, such as cable end 1312A, is connected to adapter, a signal from the main cable may be transmitted through the service cable. It should also be appreciated that because each latch 1360A-D is sized to hold more than one connection enclosure assembly, the method may proceed by inserting two or three connection enclosure assemblies into the housing prior to locking the respective latch. For example, if connection enclosure assemblies 1310A, 1310F and <NUM> are to be deposited into the housing, each may be fully inserted into the housing before latch 1360A is closed and locked.

Similar to cable enclosure <NUM>, methods of using cable enclosure <NUM>' do not require depositing of all pertinent ducts in a lower row before depositing of those in the upper row for the same reasons as described above. In cable enclosure <NUM>', the lower row is either entirely accessible if the connection enclosure assembly above it is not in place, as is the case for connection enclosure assembly 1320F' below assembly 1320A' in <FIG>, or the only structure above the lower row is a base duct. For the reasons described above, cable ends and adapters in a lower row of enclosure <NUM>' remain accessible even if base ducts of the connection enclosure assemblies directly above are abutting base portion <NUM>'.

In one embodiment, a multi-cable terminal <NUM> as shown in <FIG> is used at a site determined to be suitable for placement of the multi-cable terminal to distribute service cable to end use locations. A method of using multi-cable terminal may be based on repeating the steps described for using connection enclosure assembly <NUM>. Each connection enclosure assembly 1410A-<NUM> may be secured to multi-cable terminal housing <NUM> at a fabrication stage. During sealing of the respective connection enclosure assemblies, the resilient extension portion (e.g., extension portion 1493A) properties allow for rotational movement of one or more of the connection enclosure assemblies to increase space to access other connection enclosure assemblies. An active use of this feature is shown in <FIG> where some of the connection enclosure assemblies are moved to make it easier to access those on the lower row. In an additional optional step, any number of the ducts of assemblies 1410A-<NUM> may themselves be bundled together with a strap. A method of using multi-cable terminal <NUM> may be the same as that described for multi-cable terminal <NUM>.

In one embodiment, a cable enclosure <NUM> as shown in <FIG> is used at a site determined to be suitable for placement of the cable enclosure to distribute service cable to end use locations. The methods of using multi-cable terminal housing may be as described for the other embodiments of the present application. The methods of using cables fed through housing <NUM> may be as described elsewhere in the present disclosure or as described in <CIT>.

Claim 1:
A system (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>') for sealing a cable connection against external elements comprising:
a housing (<NUM>, 1202A-B, <NUM>, <NUM>') having at least one contour (1003A, 1011A-F, 1311F) provided on the exterior of the housing, and at least one first sealing portion (1051A, 1351A, 1351A') associated with respective ones of the at least one contour, each first sealing portion positioned at a first end of the housing and aligned with the corresponding contour of the at least one contour characterized in that each first sealing portion is configured to secure at least one cable connection element (1050A, 1350A, 1350A', <NUM>'); and the system (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>') comprises:
at least one duct (1020A, 1320A-F) positioned on respective ones of the at least one contour, each duct having a first end and a second end and being configured to internally accommodate the at least one cable connection element and at least one end of a cable (1013A, 1313A, 1313A', <NUM>'), the first end of the duct being engageable to the first sealing portion such that when the first sealing portion is engaged to the first end of the duct a watertight seal is created between the first sealing portion and the first end of the duct, and the second end of the duct being engageable to a second sealing portion (1010A-F, 1210A-F, 1310A-K, 1310A'-E') such that when the second sealing portion is secured to the second end of the duct and the cable is engaged to the second sealing portion, a watertight seal is created between the second sealing portion and the second end of the duct and between the second sealing portion and the end of the cable, and a portion of the duct proximate to the second end of the duct is disposed on the respective ones of the at least one contour.