Patent Description:
The present disclosure relates generally to a mounting bracket system. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a mounting bracket system for an environmentally sealed telecommunications enclosure.

Fiber optic communication systems allow service providers to deliver high bandwidth communication capabilities (e.g., data and voice) to customers. Fiber optic communication systems employ a distribution network of fiber optic cables to transmit large volumes of data and voice signals over relatively long distances. A drop cable is typically the last leg of the distribution network before reaching an end subscriber. Typically, a drop cable is run from a drop terminal before reaching an end subscriber location such as a house, apartment, office, place of business, and the like.

Drop terminals can be mounted on a variety of different structures. For example, drop terminals can be mounted to an outside wall of a building, an overhead cable, a pole, or inside an underground hand hole box. Often, drop terminals are mounted using fasteners that extend through the housing of the terminal. This may involve the use of tools such as hammers that can damage the drop terminal. If the drop terminal is cracked, water may enter the terminal and damage the fiber optic cables inside.

A mounting bracket can be used to mount a drop terminal to a structure. However, mounting brackets are often not suitable for a broad range of drop terminal sizes.

When a drop terminal is mounted to an overhead cable, it may be desirable to adjust a distance between the drop terminal and the overhead cable to improve access and ventilation of the drop terminal so that the drop terminal does not overheat.

Furthermore, it may sometimes be necessary to store excess fiber optic cable at the site of the drop terminal. However, there is often no space for storing or holding excess fiber optic drop cable at the location of the drop terminal.

Therefore, improvements are needed for a mounting bracket arrangement that can accommodate various drop terminal sizes, that can adjust a distance between a drop terminal and an overhead cable when the drop terminal is mounted to the overhead cable, and that can provide storage for excess drop cable in an efficient and safe manner. <CIT> relates to a fiber optic system that comprises a telecommunications enclosure that mounts to a mounting bracket in more than one orientations, via a mechanical interface that includes a slide interface in combination with a snap-fit interface.

The invention relates to fiber optic systems as disclosed in independent claims <NUM> and <NUM>.

The disclosed technology relates to a fiber optic system that includes a telecommunications enclosure having a cover removably attachable to a base, the base having a first mechanical interface, and a mounting bracket arrangement detachably mountable to the telecommunications enclosure.

In one aspect, a fiber optic system comprises a mounting bracket having a length and a width, the length being larger than the width, the mounting bracket having a first mechanical interface including a first part of a slide interface and a first part of a snap-fit interface; a telecommunications enclosure having a second mechanical interface detachably mountable to the first mechanical interface, the second mechanical interface including a second part of the slide interface and a second part of the snap-fit interface; the first and second mechanical interfaces enabling the telecommunications enclosure to mount to the mounting bracket selectively in a first orientation relative to the mounting bracket and in a second orientation relative to the mounting bracket.

In another aspect, a fiber optic system comprises a telecommunications enclosure having a cover removably attachable to a base, the base having a first mechanical interface; and a mounting bracket arrangement detachably mountable to the telecommunications enclosure, the mounting bracket arrangement including: a main bracket including a second mechanical interface that is mateable with the first mechanical interface, the main bracket defining fastener openings for mounting the main bracket to a structure in the field; an aerial strand mount unit detachably mountable to the main bracket, the aerial strand mount unit including a first strand mount arm and a second strand mount arm, the first and second strand mount arms each project outwardly from the main bracket when the aerial stand mount unit is mounted to the main bracket, the first and second strand mount arms each include a stand clamp; and a cable storage unit detachably mountable to the main bracket, the cable storage unit including a plurality of cable management arms, each cable management arm projects outwardly from the main bracket when the cable storage unit is mounted to the main bracket, and each cable management arm includes a cable support for storing excess cable in a coiled configuration about the cable storage unit.

<FIG> and <FIG> show front isometric views of a fiber optic system <NUM> in accordance with a first example of the present disclosure. In <FIG>, the fiber optic system <NUM> is shown in a horizontal orientation. In <FIG>, the fiber optic system <NUM> is shown in a vertical orientation. The fiber optic system <NUM> may be mounted to a structure in the field in either the horizontal orientation or the vertical orientation, as will be described in more detail. As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the fiber optic system <NUM> includes a telecommunications enclosure <NUM> and a mounting bracket arrangement <NUM>. In certain examples, the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> is a drop terminal.

<FIG> is a cross-sectional view taken along section line <NUM>-<NUM> of <FIG> showing internal components of the fiber optic system of <FIG>. <FIG> is a cross-sectional view taken along section line <NUM>-<NUM> of <FIG> showing internal components of the fiber optic system of <FIG>. The telecommunications enclosure <NUM> includes sealed cable ports that allow cables <NUM> to be routed into the telecommunications enclosure <NUM>. Inside the telecommunications enclosure <NUM>, optical fibers corresponding to the cables can be accessed for splicing (e.g., splicing fibers from a feeder cable to drop cables), for optical power splitting, for wavelength division multiplexing, or other functions.

The telecommunications enclosure <NUM> can store fiber optic adapters <NUM> for making de-mateable connector-to-connector optic connections, optical splices, splice trays, splice holders, passive optical splitters, wavelength division multiplexers, fiber storage trays, and other fiber management structures. The telecommunications enclosure <NUM> can be environmentally sealed to protect the cables <NUM> routed inside the enclosure.

Referring back to <FIG> and <FIG>, the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> includes a cover <NUM> and a base <NUM>. The base <NUM> is removably mountable to the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM>. In certain examples, the cover <NUM> is connected to the base <NUM> by a hinge <NUM>, and can open from the front of the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> without detaching the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> from the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM>. In some examples, latches <NUM> can be used to hold the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> closed and to help compress a sealing between the base <NUM> and the cover <NUM>.

<FIG> shows a front isometric view of the fiber optic system <NUM> in the vertical orientation, and illustrates the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> separated from the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM>. <FIG> shows an isometric view illustrating a mating between the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> and the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> includes a first mechanical interface <NUM> on the base <NUM>. In <FIG>, the first mechanical interface <NUM> is indicated by a rectangular plane depicted in broken lines on a rear surface of the base <NUM>.

The mounting bracket arrangement <NUM> includes a second mechanical interface <NUM>. In <FIG> and <FIG>, the second mechanical interface <NUM> is indicated by a rectangular plane depicted in broken lines on a front surface of the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM>. The first mechanical interface <NUM> of the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> is mateable with the second mechanical interface <NUM> for removably mounting the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> to the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM>.

In the examples shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the first mechanical interface <NUM> includes a plurality of mounting slots <NUM> covered in part by retainers <NUM>, and the second mechanical interface <NUM> includes a plurality of mounting tabs <NUM>. The mounting tabs <NUM> fit within open portions of the mounting slots <NUM> and slide within the mounting slots <NUM> to positions behind the retainers <NUM> to mate the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> and the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM> together. In other examples, the first mechanical interface <NUM> can include a plurality of mounting tabs that slot into a plurality of mounting slots on the second mechanical interface <NUM>.

In certain examples, one of the first and second mechanical interfaces <NUM>, <NUM> includes a flexible cantilever latch <NUM>, and the other of the first and second mechanical interfaces <NUM>, <NUM> includes a catch <NUM> that engages the flexible cantilever latch <NUM> to retain the first and second mechanical interfaces in a mated state.

<FIG> shows a front isometric view of the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM> in a vertical orientation. <FIG> shows a rear isometric view of the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM> in a vertical orientation. <FIG> shows a front, exploded view of the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM> in a vertical orientation. <FIG> shows a rear, exploded view of the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM> in a vertical orientation.

As shown in <FIG>, the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM> includes a main bracket <NUM>. The main bracket <NUM> includes the second mechanical interface <NUM> described above. As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the main bracket <NUM> also includes a handle <NUM> that can be activated (e.g., pulled) by a technician to disengage the cantilever latch <NUM> from the catch <NUM> to allow the bracket to be slid relative to the enclosure. In this manner, a technician can manually release the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> from the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM>.

The main bracket <NUM> also includes fastener openings <NUM> that can be used to mount the main bracket <NUM> to a structure in the field. <FIG> shows various structures to which the fiber optic system <NUM> can be mounted to. As described above, the fiber optic system <NUM> includes the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> detachably mounted to the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM>. Fasteners such as screws, bolts, nails, etc. can be threaded through the fastener openings <NUM> for mounting the main bracket <NUM> to a structure including, but not limited to, a wall <NUM> of a building, a pole <NUM> (such as a wooden pole that carries power and telecommunication cables), and/or an underground hand hole box <NUM>. When mounted to a structure in the field, the fiber optic system <NUM> can be mounted in either a horizontal orientation or a vertical orientation as may be needed or desired for a particular application. For example, <FIG> shows the fiber optic system <NUM> mounted to the wall <NUM> and the pole <NUM> in a vertical orientation, and shows the fiber optic system <NUM> mounted to the underground hand hole box <NUM> in a horizontal orientation.

As shown in <FIG>, the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM> includes an aerial strand mount unit <NUM> that is detachably mountable to the main bracket <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the aerial strand mount unit <NUM> includes a first strand mount arm <NUM> and a second strand mount arm <NUM>. In alternative examples, the aerial strand mount unit <NUM> may include more than two strand mount arms, or a single stand mount arm. In certain examples, the first strand mount arm <NUM> and the second strand mount arm <NUM> are each detachably mounted to the main bracket <NUM> using fastener <NUM> such as a bolt.

The first strand mount arm <NUM> and the second strand mount arm <NUM> each project outwardly from the main bracket <NUM> when the aerial strand mount unit <NUM> is mounted to the main bracket <NUM>. In certain examples, the first and second strand mount arms <NUM>, <NUM> can move relative to the main bracket <NUM> to adjust the distance the first and second strand mount arms <NUM>, <NUM> project from the main bracket <NUM>. The first strand mount arm <NUM> and the second strand mount arm <NUM> each include a stand clamp <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the stand clamps <NUM> can be used to removably attach the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM>, and the fiber optic system <NUM>, to an overhead cable <NUM> such as a power or telecommunications cable. As shown in <FIG>, when attached to the overhead cable <NUM>, the fiber optic system <NUM> is in a horizontal orientation. As described above, the first and second strand mount arms <NUM>, <NUM> are moveable relative to the main bracket <NUM> to adjust a distance between the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> and the overhead cable <NUM> as may be needed or desired for a particular application. The distance between the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> and the overhead cable <NUM> can be adjusted to improve access and ventilation of the telecommunications enclosure <NUM>.

Referring back to <FIG>, the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM> includes a cable storage unit <NUM> that is detachably mountable to the main bracket <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the cable storage unit <NUM> can include surfaces <NUM> that mate with corresponding angled surfaces <NUM> on the main bracket <NUM>, to form a dovetail joint that detachably mounts the cable storage unit <NUM> to the main bracket <NUM>.

The cable storage unit <NUM> includes a plurality of cable management arms such as a first cable management arm <NUM>, a second cable management arm <NUM>, a third cable management arm <NUM>, and a fourth cable management arm <NUM>. Each cable management arm <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> projects outwardly from the main bracket <NUM> when the cable storage unit <NUM> is mounted to the main bracket <NUM>.

In the examples shown in <FIG>, the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM> includes four cable management arms <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. In alternative examples, it is contemplated that the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM> may include more than four cable management arms, or may have fewer than four cable management arms.

In the examples shown in <FIG>, the first and second cable management arms <NUM>, <NUM> are integral such that they are a single piece that can be detachably mounted to the main bracket <NUM>. Similarly, the third and fourth cable management arms <NUM>, <NUM> are integral such that they are a single piece that can also be detachably mounted to the main bracket <NUM>. As will be described below, in alternative examples each cable management arm can be a separate piece attached to the main bracket.

As shown in <FIG>, each cable management arm <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> includes a cable support <NUM>. Each cable support <NUM> is located at a distal end of a cable management arm and includes a base surface <NUM>, a first side surface <NUM>, and a second side surface <NUM> that define an open pocket shape. In some examples, at least one side surface of each cable support <NUM>, such as the first side surface <NUM>, is substantially parallel to the cable management arm, and the other side surface, such as the second side surface <NUM>, extends outwardly at an angle from the cable management arm.

The cable supports <NUM> can hold and support excess cable wound about the cable storage unit <NUM>. For example, referring back to <FIG>, each cable support <NUM> can be used for storing excess cable in a coiled configuration <NUM> about the cable storage unit <NUM>. The cable supports <NUM> can define a cable wrapping path having a cross-dimension larger than a cross-dimension of the telecommunications enclosure <NUM>. The open pocket shape of the cable supports <NUM>, as defined by the base surface <NUM>, the first side surface <NUM>, and the second side surface <NUM>, can improve the ability to wind and store excess cable around the cable storage unit <NUM> by allowing a technician to slide the excess cable on the second side surface <NUM>, and to catch the excess cable using the first side surface <NUM> within the cable support <NUM>. In some examples, each cable management arm <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> can slide relative to the main bracket <NUM> to adjust the size of the cable wrapping path of the cable storage unit <NUM>.

As described above, <FIG> show a first example of the fiber optic system <NUM> that includes a mounting bracket arrangement <NUM>. In this first example, the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM> is made from an injection molded plastic material. The injection molded plastic may provide certain advantages such as reducing the weight of the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM> while maintaining the durability of the bracket arrangement. In the first example of the fiber optic system <NUM>, the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM> may be particularly well suitable for mounting small to medium sized telecommunications enclosures to a structure in the field.

<FIG> and <FIG> show front isometric views of a fiber optic system <NUM> in accordance with a second example of the present disclosure. In this second example, the fiber optic system <NUM> includes a telecommunications enclosure <NUM> and a mounting bracket arrangement <NUM>. In this example, the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM> is made from a metal material, and may be particularly well suitable for mounting medium to large sized telecommunications enclosures to a structure in the field.

<FIG> is a cross-sectional view taken along section line <NUM>-<NUM> of <FIG> showing internal components of the fiber optic system of <FIG>. <FIG> is a cross-sectional view taken along section line <NUM>-<NUM> of <FIG> showing internal components of the fiber optic system of <FIG>. The telecommunications enclosure <NUM> is similar to the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> described above with references to <FIG>.

The telecommunications enclosure <NUM> includes sealed cable ports that allow cables <NUM> to be routed into the telecommunications enclosure <NUM>. The telecommunications enclosure <NUM> can also store fiber optic adapters <NUM> for making de-mateable connector-to-connector optic connections, optical splices, splice trays, splice holders, passive optical splitters, wavelength division multiplexers, fiber storage trays, and other fiber management structures. The telecommunications enclosure <NUM> can be environmentally sealed to protect the cables routed inside the enclosure.

Referring back to <FIG> and <FIG>, the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> includes a cover <NUM> and a base <NUM>. The base <NUM> is removably mountable to the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM>. In some examples, the cover <NUM> is connected to the base <NUM> by a hinge <NUM>, and can open from the front of the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> without detaching the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> from the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM>. In some examples, latches <NUM> can be used to hold the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> closed and to help compress a sealing between the base <NUM> and the cover <NUM>.

In the examples shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the first mechanical interface <NUM> includes a plurality of mounting slots <NUM> covered in part by retainers <NUM>, and the second mechanical interface <NUM> includes a plurality of mounting tabs <NUM>. The mounting tabs <NUM> fit within the mounting slots <NUM> and slide behind the retainers <NUM> to mate the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> and the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM> together. In other examples, the first mechanical interface <NUM> can include a plurality of mounting tabs that slot into a plurality of mounting slots on the second mechanical interface <NUM>. In certain examples, one of the first and second mechanical interfaces <NUM>, <NUM> includes a flexible cantilever latch (e.g., latch <NUM>), and the other of the first and second mechanical interfaces <NUM>, <NUM> includes a catch (e.g., opening <NUM>) that engages the flexible cantilever latch to retain the first and second mechanical interfaces in a mated state.

<FIG> shows a front isometric view of the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM> in a vertical orientation. <FIG> shows another front isometric view of the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM> in a vertical orientation. <FIG> shows a front, exploded view of the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM> in a vertical orientation. <FIG> shows a rear, exploded view of the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM> in a vertical orientation.

As shown in <FIG>, the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM> includes a main bracket <NUM>. The main bracket <NUM> includes the second mechanical interface <NUM> described above. The main bracket <NUM> also includes fastener openings <NUM> that can be used to mount the main bracket <NUM> to a structure in the field.

Like in the first fiber optic system shown in <FIG>, fasteners such as screws, bolts, nails, etc. can be threaded through the fastener openings <NUM> for mounting the main bracket <NUM> to a structure including, but not limited to, a wall <NUM> of a building, a pole <NUM> (such as a wooden pole that carries power and telecommunication cables), and/or an underground hand hole box <NUM>. When mounted to a structure in the field, the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM>, and the fiber optic system <NUM>, can be mounted in the either horizontal or vertical orientations as may be needed for a particular application.

The first strand mount arm <NUM> and the second strand mount arm <NUM> each project outwardly from the main bracket <NUM> when the aerial strand mount unit <NUM> is mounted to the main bracket <NUM>. In certain examples, the first and second strand mount arms <NUM>, <NUM> can slide relative to the main bracket <NUM> to adjust the distance the first and second strand mount arms <NUM>, <NUM> project from the main bracket <NUM>. The first strand mount arm <NUM> and the second strand mount arm <NUM> each include a stand clamp <NUM>.

Like in the first fiber optic system shown in <FIG>, the stand clamps <NUM> can be used to removably attach the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM>, and the fiber optic system <NUM>, to an overhead cable <NUM> such as a power or telecommunications cable. When attached to an overhead cable, the fiber optic system <NUM> is in a horizontal orientation. As described above, the first and second strand mount arms <NUM>, <NUM> are moveable relative to the main bracket <NUM> to adjust a distance between the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> and the overhead cable <NUM> as may be needed or desired for a particular application. The distance between the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> and the overhead cable <NUM> can be adjusted to improve access and ventilation of the telecommunications enclosure <NUM>.

Referring back to <FIG>, the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM> includes a cable storage unit <NUM> that is detachably mountable to the main bracket <NUM>. In the example depicted in <FIG>, the cable storage unit <NUM> includes a plurality of cable management arms such as a first cable management arm <NUM>, a second cable management arm <NUM>, a third cable management arm <NUM>, and a fourth cable management arm <NUM>. Each cable management arm <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> projects outwardly from the main bracket <NUM> when the cable storage unit <NUM> is mounted to the main bracket <NUM>.

Each cable management arm <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, includes a cable support <NUM>. Each cable support <NUM> is located at a distal end of a cable management arm and includes a base surface <NUM>, a first side surface <NUM>, and a second side surface <NUM> that define an open pocket shape. In some examples, at least one side surface of each cable support <NUM>, such as the first side surface <NUM>, is substantially parallel to the cable management arm of the cable support <NUM>, and the other side surface, such as the second side surface <NUM>, extends outwardly at an angle from the cable management arm.

Like in the fiber optic system shown in <FIG>, each cable support <NUM> can be used for storing excess cable in a coiled configuration <NUM> about the cable storage unit <NUM> by winding the excess cable around the cable supports <NUM> of each of the cable management arms. In certain examples, the cable supports <NUM> define a cable wrapping path having a cross-dimension larger than a cross-dimension of the telecommunications enclosure <NUM>. The open pocket shape of the cable supports <NUM>, as defined by the base surface <NUM>, the first side surface <NUM>, and the second side surface <NUM>, can improve the ability to wind and store excess cable around the cable storage unit <NUM> by allowing a technician to slide the excess cable on the second side surface <NUM>, and to catch the excess cable using the first side surface <NUM> within the cable support <NUM>.

Each cable management arm <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, also includes a slot <NUM>, and each cable management arm can be individually attached to the main bracket <NUM>. In certain examples, as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the cable management arms <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> can be attached to an intermediate upper bracket <NUM> and an intermediate lower bracket <NUM> for attachment to the main bracket <NUM>. A fastener <NUM> such as a bolt can be thread through the slot <NUM> to tighten a cable management arm <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> to the intermediate upper bracket <NUM> or the intermediate lower bracket <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, the intermediate upper bracket <NUM> and the intermediate lower bracket <NUM> include flaps <NUM>, and the main bracket <NUM> includes corresponding flaps <NUM>. The flaps <NUM> of the intermediate upper bracket <NUM> and the intermediate lower bracket <NUM> can interface with the flaps <NUM> to detachably mount the intermediate upper bracket <NUM> and the intermediate lower bracket <NUM> to the main bracket <NUM>.

When the intermediate upper bracket <NUM> and the intermediate lower bracket <NUM> are attached to the main bracket <NUM>, the distance that each cable management arm <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> extends from the main bracket <NUM> can be adjusted by changing the location where the fastener <NUM> is tightened relative to the slot <NUM> of each cable management arm. Accordingly, the size of the cable wrapping path defined by the cable storage unit <NUM> can be adjusted by a technician as may be needed or desired.

As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the main bracket <NUM> also includes a lever <NUM> that can be activated by a technician for pivoting the mounting tabs <NUM> of the second mechanical interface <NUM> from an engaged position to a disengaged position. The lever <NUM> can be activated by, for example, pushing, pulling, or rotating, to pivot the mounting tabs <NUM> into the disengaged position. In this manner, a technician can manually releasing the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> from the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM>.

<FIG> is a rear isometric view of a fiber optic system <NUM> in accordance with another example of the present disclosure. <FIG> is an exploded rear isometric view of the fiber optic system <NUM>. As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the fiber optic system <NUM> includes a telecommunications enclosure <NUM> and a mounting bracket arrangement <NUM>.

The telecommunications enclosure <NUM> is similar to the telecommunications enclosures <NUM> and <NUM> described above. The telecommunications enclosure <NUM> can include sealed cable ports that allow cables to be routed into the telecommunications enclosure <NUM>. The telecommunications enclosure <NUM> can also store fiber optic adapters for making de-mateable connector-to-connector optic connections, optical splices, splice trays, splice holders, passive optical splitters, wavelength division multiplexers, fiber storage trays, and other fiber management structures. The telecommunications enclosure <NUM> can be environmentally sealed to protect the cables routed inside the enclosure.

As shown in <FIG>, the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> includes a cover <NUM> and a base <NUM>. In some examples, the cover <NUM> is connected to the base <NUM> by a hinge, and can open from the front of the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> without detaching the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> from the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM>. In some examples, latches <NUM> can be used to hold the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> closed and to help compress a sealing between the base <NUM> and the cover <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> has a first mechanical interface <NUM> that includes a plurality of mounting slots <NUM>. Each mounting slot <NUM> is covered at least in part by a retainer <NUM>. In the example shown in <FIG>, the first mechanical interface <NUM> includes six mounting slots <NUM> and six retainers <NUM>. It is contemplated that in other examples, the number of mounting slots <NUM> and retainers <NUM> may vary as may be needed or desired for a particular application, and that therefore the first mechanical interface <NUM> may include more than or fewer than six mounting slots <NUM> and associated retainers <NUM>. The first mechanical interface <NUM> may also have one or more catches <NUM>. In the example depicted in <FIG>, the mechanical interface <NUM> includes two catches <NUM>, one on each side of the telecommunications enclosure <NUM>.

Still referring to <FIG>, the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> can also include modular mounting features <NUM>. The modular mounting features <NUM> are snap-fitted onto arms <NUM> of the telecommunications enclosure <NUM>. The telecommunications enclosure <NUM> can have arms <NUM> on a top or bottom (or left and right sides depending on the orientation of the telecommunications enclosure <NUM>) such that the modular mounting features <NUM> are attachable to a top or bottom (or left and right sides) of the telecommunications enclosure <NUM>. The modular mounting features <NUM> are described in more detail with reference to <FIG>.

<FIG> is a front isometric view of the fiber optic system <NUM> showing the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> detached from the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM>. The mounting bracket arrangement <NUM> includes a second mechanical interface <NUM> having one or more side latches <NUM> and a plurality of mounting tabs <NUM>.

The plurality of mounting tabs <NUM> are able to slide within the mounting slots <NUM>, and to engage the retainers <NUM> to hold the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> together with the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM>.

The one or more side latches <NUM> are able to engage the one or more catches <NUM> to prevent the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> from sliding relative to the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM>, and thereby fix the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> together with the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM>. The one or more side latches <NUM> are also able to disengage the one or more catches <NUM> to allow the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> to slide relative to the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM>, and thereby release the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> from the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM>.

The mounting bracket arrangement <NUM> further includes fastener openings <NUM> configured to receive fasteners for mounting the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM> to a structure in the field. Fasteners such as screws, bolts, nails, etc. can be threaded through the fastener openings <NUM> for mounting the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM> (and the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> attached thereto) to structures including a wall of a building, a pole (such as a wooden pole that carries power and telecommunication cables), and/or an underground hand hole box. When mounted to a structure in the field, the fiber optic system <NUM> can be mounted in either a horizontal orientation or a vertical orientation as may be needed or desired for a particular application.

<FIG> is an isometric view illustrating a mating between the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> and the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM>. <FIG> is a detailed view of a catch <NUM> shown in <FIG>. <FIG> is a front isometric view of the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the side latches <NUM> are flexible arms that are configured to engage and disengage the catches <NUM> of the telecommunications enclosure <NUM>. Each catch <NUM> includes at least one orthogonal surface <NUM> and a sloped surface <NUM>. In the example depicted in the figures, each catch <NUM> includes two orthogonal surfaces <NUM> and two sloped surfaces <NUM>. The number of orthogonal surfaces <NUM> and the number of sloped surfaces <NUM> may vary as needed or desired. When the side latches <NUM> engage the orthogonal surfaces <NUM>, the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> is prevented from sliding with respect to the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM>.

The side latches <NUM> can flex in a direction toward the center of the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM> to disengage the orthogonal surfaces <NUM>. When the side latches <NUM> disengage the orthogonal surfaces <NUM>, the side latches <NUM> can slide on the sloped surface <NUM> of each catch <NUM> such that the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> can slide relative to the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM> and thereby allowing the plurality of mounting tabs <NUM> can disengage the retainers <NUM> thereby releasing the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> from the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM>.

<FIG> is a rear isometric view of the mounting feature <NUM>. <FIG> is a front isometric view of the mounting feature <NUM>. <FIG> is a rear view of the mounting feature <NUM>. <FIG> is a front view of the mounting feature <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the modular mounting features <NUM> each define openings <NUM> that are configured to receive fasteners (e.g., screws, nails, etc.) to help fasten the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> to a structure in the field. Also, the modular mounting features <NUM> each define slots <NUM> that are configured to receive strap clamps.

<FIG> is a partial isometric view of the mounting feature <NUM> attached to the telecommunications enclosure <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the mounting feature <NUM> includes on each side a beam <NUM> and a first groove <NUM>. The beam <NUM> and the first groove <NUM> are each configured to engage a horizontal portion of an arm <NUM> of the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> such that the mounting feature <NUM> is able to snap-fit onto the telecommunications enclosure <NUM>. Also, the mounting feature <NUM> includes on each side a second groove <NUM> and a rail <NUM>. The second groove <NUM> and the rail <NUM> are each configured to engage a vertical portion of an arm <NUM> of the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> further enhancing the ability of the mounting feature <NUM> to snap-fit onto the telecommunications enclosure <NUM>. In some examples, the mounting feature <NUM> is removably attachable to and detachable from the telecommunications enclosure <NUM>.

The telecommunications enclosure <NUM> is similar to the telecommunications enclosures <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> described above. The telecommunications enclosure <NUM> includes a cover <NUM> and a base <NUM>. The cover <NUM> is connected to the base <NUM> by a hinge and can open from the front of the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> without detaching the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> from the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM>. In some examples, latches <NUM> can be used to hold the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> closed and to help compress a sealing between the base <NUM> and the cover <NUM>.

In some examples, the cover <NUM> includes security elements positioned on a side surface <NUM>, and the base <NUM> can include corresponding security elements on a side surface <NUM>. Security elements may also be positioned on the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM> such as on the corners <NUM> or elsewhere. The security elements on the cover <NUM>, base <NUM>, and mounting bracket arrangement <NUM> each have apertures configured to receive a cable tie, wire, cord, string, and the like that can be tied to secure the cover <NUM> to the base <NUM>, and to secure the cover <NUM> and the base <NUM> to the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM>. Also, the security elements when tied together can ensure that the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> has not been tampered with.

In some examples, the rear portion of the base <NUM> includes one or more posts and a front portion of the cover <NUM> includes one or more corresponding apertures configured to receive the posts of the base <NUM> such that the telecommunications enclosures <NUM> can be stacked for storage and transport. In some examples, the posts are positioned on the corners of the rear portion of the base <NUM> and the corresponding apertures on the cover <NUM> are positioned on the corners of the front portion of the cover <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> has a first mechanical interface <NUM> that includes a plurality of mounting slots <NUM>. Each mounting slot <NUM> is covered at least in part by a retainer <NUM>. In the example shown in <FIG>, the first mechanical interface <NUM> includes six mounting slots <NUM> and six retainers <NUM>. In other examples, the number of mounting slots <NUM> and retainers <NUM> may vary as needed such that the first mechanical interface <NUM> may include more or fewer than six mounting slots <NUM> and associated retainers <NUM>. The first mechanical interface <NUM> may also have one or more catches <NUM>. In the example depicted in <FIG>, the mechanical interface <NUM> includes two catches <NUM>, one on each side of the telecommunications enclosure <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the fiber optic system <NUM> includes at least one modular mounting feature <NUM>. Each modular mounting feature <NUM> is configured to attach onto arms <NUM> of the telecommunications enclosure <NUM>. In some examples, the modular mounting features <NUM> are configured to snap-fit onto the arms <NUM>. In the depicted example, two modular mounting features <NUM> are attached to opposing ends (or sides) of the telecommunications enclosure <NUM>. In other examples, the fiber optic system <NUM> may include fewer than two modular mounting features <NUM> or more than two modular mounting features <NUM> as may be needed or desired. The modular mounting features <NUM> are described in more detail with reference to <FIG>.

<FIG> is a front isometric view of the fiber optic system <NUM> showing the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> detached from the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM>. The mounting bracket arrangement <NUM> includes a second mechanical interface <NUM> having one or more side latches <NUM> and mounting tabs <NUM>. The plurality of mounting tabs <NUM> are configured to slide within the mounting slots <NUM> of telecommunications enclosure <NUM>, and to engage the retainers <NUM> to attach and fix the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM> to the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> as shown in <FIG>.

The side latches <NUM> are able to flex and engage the catches <NUM> of the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> to prevent the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM> from sliding relative to the telecommunications enclosure <NUM>, and thereby fix the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM> to the telecommunications enclosure <NUM>. Additionally, the side latches <NUM> are configured to flex and disengage the catches <NUM> to allow the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM> to slide relative to the telecommunications enclosure <NUM>, and thereby release the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM>.

The mounting bracket arrangement <NUM> further includes fastener openings <NUM> configured to receive fasteners to attach the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM> to a structure in the field. Fasteners such as screws, bolts, nails, etc. can be threaded through the fastener openings <NUM> for mounting the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM> (and the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> attached thereto) to structures including a wall of a building, a pole (such as a wooden pole that carries power and telecommunication cables), and/or an underground hand hole box. When mounted to a structure in the field, the fiber optic system <NUM> can be mounted in either a horizontal orientation or a vertical orientation as may be needed or desired for a particular application.

<FIG> is an isometric view illustrating a mating between the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> and the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM>. As described above, the side latches <NUM> are flexible arms that are configured to engage and disengage the catches <NUM> of the telecommunications enclosure <NUM>. Each catch <NUM> includes at least one orthogonal surface and a sloped surface like that shown in the detailed view of <FIG>.

When a side latch <NUM> engages an orthogonal surface, the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM> is prevented from sliding with respect to the telecommunications enclosure <NUM>, and is fixed to the telecommunications enclosure <NUM>. The side latches <NUM> are configured to flex inwardly to disengage the orthogonal surfaces of each catch <NUM>. When the side latches <NUM> disengage the catches <NUM>, the side latches <NUM> can slide on the sloped surface of each catch <NUM> and the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM> can slide relative to the telecommunications enclosure <NUM>. This allows the mounting tabs <NUM> to disengage the retainer <NUM> in each mounting slot <NUM>, and releases the mounting bracket arrangement <NUM> from the telecommunications enclosure <NUM>.

<FIG> are rear isometric, front isometric, rear, and front views, respectively, of the modular mounting feature <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, each modular mounting feature <NUM> has openings <NUM> that are configured to receive fasteners (e.g., screws, nails, etc.) to fasten the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> to a structure in the field. Each modular mounting feature <NUM> also has slots <NUM> configured to receive strap clamps.

As shown in <FIG>, each modular mounting feature <NUM> includes at least one latch <NUM> positioned on a rear surface <NUM> and at least one sleeve <NUM> positioned on a front surface <NUM>. Each latch <NUM> is flexible and includes an arm portion <NUM> and a ramp portion <NUM>. Each modular mounting feature <NUM> is configured to attach to the arms <NUM> of the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> in the direction indicated by the arrows shown in <FIG>. Accordingly, each modular mounting feature <NUM> is configured to attach to the arms <NUM> in a direction parallel to the long axis of the telecommunications enclosure <NUM>, and advantageously, access and/or space at the rear of the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> is not required for attaching the modular mounting features <NUM>.

<FIG> is a partial isometric view of a modular mounting feature <NUM> attached to the telecommunications enclosure <NUM>. Referring now to <FIG> and <FIG>, each ramp portion <NUM> is configured to slide against a ledge <NUM> on each arm <NUM> of the telecommunications enclosure <NUM>, and each arm portion <NUM> is configured to flex in a rear direction until the ramp portion <NUM> slides past the ledge <NUM> and the latch <NUM> snaps into an aperture <NUM> in the arm <NUM>. Simultaneously, each sleeve <NUM> is slotted parallel to a front surface of each arm <NUM> such that each sleeve <NUM> abuts the front surface of the arm <NUM>. An orthogonal surface <NUM> on each latch <NUM> prevents the modular mounting feature <NUM> from being pulled in a direction parallel to the long axis of the telecommunications enclosure <NUM>, and the sleeve <NUM> prevents the modular mounting feature <NUM> from being pulled in a direction parallel to the short axis of the telecommunications enclosure <NUM>. Accordingly, each modular mounting feature <NUM> is configured to snap fit onto the arms <NUM> of the telecommunications enclosure <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrate another fiber optic system <NUM> that includes a mounting bracket <NUM> and one or more telecommunications enclosures <NUM>. The mounting bracket <NUM> has a length L that extends between a first end <NUM> and a second end <NUM>. The mounting bracket <NUM> also has a width W that extends between a first side <NUM> and a second side <NUM>, and a thickness T that extends between a rear <NUM> and a front <NUM>.

The mounting bracket <NUM> includes first and second mounting sections <NUM> spaced apart by an intermediate portion <NUM>. The first and second mounting sections <NUM> enable the rear <NUM> (<FIG>) of the mounting bracket <NUM> to be secured to a surface (e.g., a wall). Each of the first and second mounting sections <NUM> defines one or more apertures <NUM> through which one or more fasteners can be inserted to mount the mounting bracket <NUM> to the surface. In certain examples, the apertures <NUM> are keyhole shaped to facilitate the mounting of the mounting bracket <NUM>. Other attachment mechanisms are possible.

A rear <NUM>, <NUM> of the telecommunications enclosure <NUM>, <NUM> mounts to the front <NUM> of the mounting bracket <NUM>. The telecommunications enclosure <NUM>, <NUM> extends along a length between a first end <NUM>, <NUM> and a second end <NUM>, <NUM>, along a width between a first side <NUM>, <NUM> and a second side <NUM>, <NUM>, and along a depth between a front <NUM>, <NUM> and the rear <NUM>, <NUM>. The enclosure <NUM>, <NUM> defines an interior accessible through an access aperture at the front <NUM>, <NUM> of the enclosure <NUM>, <NUM>. Various components (e.g., cable management guides, cable storage spools, optical adapters, optical splices, optical power splitters, optical couplers, wave division multiplexers, active-to optical converters, etc.) can be mounted within the interior.

The telecommunications enclosure <NUM>, <NUM> and the mounting bracket <NUM> together define a mechanical coupling interface for securing the telecommunications enclosure <NUM>, <NUM> and the mounting bracket <NUM> together. The mechanical coupling interface includes a slide interface that mates together by a sliding motion in a first dimension D1 and that prevents relative movement between the mounting bracket <NUM> and the telecommunications enclosure <NUM>, <NUM> in second and third dimensions D2, D3 when the slide interface is mated together.

The mechanical coupling interface also includes a snap-fit interface that snaps from an unlatched configuration to a latched configuration when the slide interface is mated together by the sliding motion in the first dimension D1. The telecommunications enclosure <NUM>, <NUM> and the mounting bracket <NUM> are moveable relative to one another along the first dimension D1 when in the unlatched configuration to allow the telecommunications enclosure <NUM>, <NUM> and the mounting bracket <NUM> to be disconnected from one another. The snap-fit interface prevents relative movement between the mounting bracket <NUM> and the telecommunications enclosure <NUM>, <NUM> along the first dimension D1 when in the latched configuration. The snap-fit interface is moveable between the latched configuration and the unlatched configuration by flexing a resilient latch arrangement <NUM>, <NUM> of the snap-fit interface.

The mechanical coupling interface allows the telecommunications enclosure <NUM>, <NUM> to be mounted to the mounting bracket <NUM> in first and second enclosure mounting orientations. The telecommunications enclosure <NUM>, <NUM> is rotated <NUM> degrees relative to the mounting bracket <NUM> about the second dimension D2 when in the first enclosure mounting orientation as compared to the second enclosure mounting orientation.

In certain examples, the first, second, and third dimensions are all perpendicular relative to one another. In some examples, the first dimension D1 is parallel to the width of the enclosure <NUM>, the second dimension D2 is parallel to the depth of the enclosure <NUM>, and the third dimension D3 is parallel to the length of the enclosure <NUM> (see <FIG>). In other examples, the first dimension D1 is parallel to length of the enclosure <NUM>, the second dimension D2 is parallel to the depth of the enclosure <NUM>, and the third dimension D3 is parallel to the width of the enclosure <NUM> (see <FIG>).

Referring back to <FIG> and <FIG>, the mounting bracket <NUM> includes a first mechanical interface <NUM> configured to mate with a corresponding mechanical interface <NUM> (see <FIG>) at the rear <NUM> of a first type of enclosure <NUM> to form an example of the mechanical coupling interface. Each of the mechanical interfaces <NUM>, <NUM> includes a corresponding part of a slide interface and a corresponding part of a snap-fit interface.

The mounting bracket <NUM> also includes a second mechanical interface <NUM> configured to mate with a corresponding mechanical interface <NUM> at the rear <NUM> of a second type of enclosure <NUM> to form another example of the mechanical coupling interface described above. Each of the mechanical interfaces <NUM>, <NUM> includes a corresponding part of a slide interface and a corresponding part of a snap-fit interface.

The first mechanical interface <NUM> of the mounting bracket <NUM> includes a tab arrangement that forms the first part of the slide interface. The tab arrangement includes a tab <NUM> extending outwardly from the intermediate portion <NUM> of the mounting bracket <NUM>. In some examples, the tab <NUM> is stationary relative to the intermediate portion <NUM>. In some examples, the tab <NUM> can flex along a thickness T of the mounting bracket <NUM>. In other examples, the tab <NUM> cannot flex along the length L or width W of the mounting bracket <NUM>. The tab <NUM> defines a first shoulder <NUM> facing towards the first end <NUM> of the mounting bracket <NUM>, a second shoulder <NUM> facing towards the second end <NUM> of the mounting bracket <NUM>, and an engagement surface <NUM> (see <FIG>) facing away from the enclosure <NUM>, <NUM> when mounted to the mounting bracket <NUM>.

The tab arrangement includes multiple tabs <NUM>. In certain examples, first and second tabs <NUM> extend outward from opposite sides of the intermediate portion <NUM>. In certain examples, a first set of tabs <NUM> is spaced along the length L of the mounting bracket <NUM> from a second set of tabs <NUM>. Each set of tabs <NUM> includes first and second tabs <NUM> extending outwardly from opposite sides of the intermediate portion <NUM>.

The first mechanical interface <NUM> also includes a resilient latch arrangement <NUM> that forms the first part of the snap-fit interface. In certain examples, the resilient latch arrangement <NUM> includes a latch arm <NUM> that extends outwardly from the intermediate portion <NUM> of the mounting bracket <NUM>. The latch arm <NUM> is resiliently flexible relative to the intermediate portion <NUM>. The latch arm <NUM> carries a latch member <NUM> so that the latch member <NUM> moves at least partially along the length L of the mounting bracket <NUM> when the latch arm <NUM> flexes. The latch member <NUM> includes an outwardly-facing ramped surface <NUM> that faces away from the intermediate portion <NUM> and an inwardly-facing shoulder <NUM> that faces towards the intermediate portion <NUM> (see <FIG>).

In certain examples, the resilient latch arrangement <NUM> includes two latch arms <NUM> extending from opposite sides of the intermediate portion <NUM>. In certain examples, the two latch arms <NUM> are located between the first set of tabs <NUM> and the second set of tabs <NUM> of the slide interface. In certain examples, the latch member <NUM> of each latch arm <NUM> extends in a common direction (e.g., down in <FIG>) so that the shoulders <NUM> of the latch members <NUM> laterally align with each other.

In certain implementations, the second mechanical interface <NUM> of the mounting bracket <NUM> includes a tab arrangement that forms the first part of the slide interface. In certain examples, the tab arrangement of the second mechanical interface <NUM> is the tab arrangement of the first mechanical interface <NUM>.

The second mechanical interface <NUM> includes a resilient latch arrangement <NUM> that forms the first part of the snap-fit interface. In certain examples, the resilient latch arrangement <NUM> includes a latch arm <NUM> that extends outwardly from the intermediate portion <NUM> of the mounting bracket <NUM>. The latch arm <NUM> is resiliently flexible relative to the intermediate portion <NUM>. The latch arm <NUM> carries a latch member <NUM> so that the latch member <NUM> moves at least partially along the thickness T of the mounting bracket <NUM> when the latch arm <NUM> flexes. The latch member <NUM> has a first shoulder <NUM> that faces towards the second end <NUM> of the mounting bracket <NUM> and a second shoulder <NUM> that faces towards the first end <NUM> of the mounting bracket <NUM>.

In certain examples, the resilient latch arrangement <NUM> includes two latch arms <NUM> extending from opposite sides of the intermediate portion <NUM>. In certain examples, the two latch arms <NUM> are located between the first set of tabs <NUM> and the second set of tabs <NUM> of the slide interface. In certain examples, the latch member <NUM> of each latch arm <NUM> extends in a common direction (e.g., down in <FIG>) so that the first shoulders <NUM> of the latch members <NUM> laterally align with each other and the second shoulders <NUM> of the latch members <NUM> laterally align with each other. The second shoulders <NUM> face in an opposite direction from the first shoulders <NUM>. For example, the first shoulders <NUM> may face towards the second end <NUM> of the mounting bracket <NUM> and the second shoulders <NUM> may face towards the first end <NUM> of the mounting bracket <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the mechanical coupling interface between the first mechanical interface <NUM> of the mounting bracket <NUM> and a mechanical interface <NUM> of the first type of enclosure <NUM> is shown. The first dimension D1 of the first mechanical interface <NUM> and the mechanical interface <NUM> extends parallel to the width W of the mounting bracket <NUM>. The second dimension D2 of the first mechanical interface <NUM> and the mechanical interface <NUM> extends parallel to the thickness T of the mounting bracket <NUM>. The third dimension D3 of the first mechanical interface <NUM> and the mechanical interface <NUM> extends parallel to the length L of the mounting bracket <NUM>.

The mechanical coupling interface allows the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> to be mechanically coupled to the mounting bracket <NUM> by sliding the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> along the first dimension D1 to mate together the slide interface and to snap the snap-fit interface into the latched configuration. In certain implementations, the first mechanical interface <NUM> and the mechanical interface <NUM> allow the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> to be mechanically coupled to the mounting bracket <NUM> by sliding the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> in a first direction R1 along the first dimension D1 (e.g., along a first slide axis S1) to mate together the slide interface and to snap the snap-fit interface into the latched configuration. The first mechanical interface <NUM> and the mechanical interface <NUM> also allow the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> to be mechanically coupled to the mounting bracket <NUM> by sliding the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> in a second direction R2 along the first dimension D1 (e.g., along the first slide axis S1) to mate together the slide interface and to snap the snap-fit interface into the latched configuration. The second direction R2 is opposite with respect to the first direction R1. In certain examples, the enclosure <NUM> may be disposed in the same orientation regardless of whether the enclosure <NUM> is slid along the first direction R1 or the second directions R2.

As shown in <FIG>, the rear <NUM> of the enclosure <NUM> defines the mechanical interface <NUM>. The mechanical interface <NUM> includes one or more channels <NUM> along which the tabs <NUM> of the first mechanical interface <NUM> of the mounting bracket <NUM> can slide. The channels <NUM> extend along the first dimension D1 (e.g., along the width of the enclosure <NUM>). Rails <NUM> disposed at opposite sides of the channels <NUM> extend at least partially over the tab(s) <NUM> (e.g., partially over the engagement surface <NUM>) to retain the tab(s) <NUM> in the channels <NUM>. The rails <NUM> inhibit movement of the tab(s) <NUM> relative to the enclosure <NUM> in the second dimension D2 (e.g., along the depth of the enclosure <NUM>). The rails <NUM> and/or recessed channels <NUM> also may inhibit movement of the tab(s) <NUM> relative to the enclosure <NUM> in the third dimension D3 (e.g., along the length of the enclosure <NUM>). Accordingly, the channels <NUM> and/or rails <NUM> define the second part of the slide interface of the mechanical coupling interface.

The mechanical interface <NUM> also includes the second part of the snap-fit interface of the mechanical coupling interface. The second part of the snap-fit interface includes a catch arrangement that engages the latch member(s) <NUM> of the resilient latch arrangement <NUM>. The catch arrangement includes one or more catches <NUM> each defining a recessed shoulder <NUM>. The recessed shoulder <NUM> of each catch <NUM> faces outwardly towards the closest side <NUM>, <NUM> of the enclosure <NUM>.

In certain implementations, the catch arrangement includes first and second catches <NUM> disposed in lateral alignment at the rear <NUM> of the enclosure <NUM> towards the first and second sides <NUM>, <NUM>, respectively. When the enclosure <NUM> is slid onto the mounting bracket <NUM>, the latch member <NUM> of a first latch arm <NUM> slides over the first catch <NUM> at the first side <NUM> of the enclosure. The ramped surface <NUM> of the latch member <NUM> allows the latch member <NUM> to slide over the first catch <NUM> without being caught at the recessed shoulder <NUM>. As the enclosure <NUM> continues to slide relative to the mounting bracket <NUM>, the latch member <NUM> of the first latch arm <NUM> engages the second catch <NUM> and snaps into the recess defined by the second catch <NUM>. The shoulder <NUM> of the latch member <NUM> of the first latch arm <NUM> abuts the recessed shoulder <NUM> of the second catch <NUM>. A latch member <NUM> of the second latch arm <NUM> of the resilient latch arrangement <NUM> engages the first catch <NUM> snaps into the recessed defined by the first catch <NUM>. The shoulder <NUM> of the latch member <NUM> of the second latch arm <NUM> abuts the recessed shoulder <NUM> of the first catch <NUM>. This configuration of the enclosure <NUM> and mounting bracket <NUM> is referred to as the latched configuration.

The abutment between the shoulders of the first latch arm <NUM> and the second catch <NUM> inhibit movement of the enclosure <NUM> in a first direction and the abutment between the shoulders of the second latch arm <NUM> and the first catch <NUM> inhibit movement of the enclosure <NUM> in an opposite second direction. Accordingly, the snap-fit interface inhibits movement of the enclosure <NUM> relative to the mounting bracket <NUM> along the first dimension D1.

Referring to <FIG>, the mechanical coupling interface between the second mechanical interface <NUM> of the mounting bracket <NUM> and a mechanical interface <NUM> of the second type of enclosure <NUM> is shown. The first dimension D1 of the second mechanical interface <NUM> and the corresponding mechanical interface <NUM> extends parallel to the length L of the mounting bracket <NUM>. The second dimension D2 of the second mechanical interface <NUM> and the corresponding mechanical interface <NUM> extends parallel to the thickness T of the mounting bracket <NUM>. The third dimension D3 of the second mechanical interface <NUM> and the corresponding mechanical interface <NUM> extends parallel to the width W of the mounting bracket <NUM>.

The mechanical coupling interface between the second mechanical interface <NUM> and the corresponding mechanical interface <NUM> allows the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> to be mechanically coupled to the mounting bracket <NUM> by sliding the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> along the first dimension D1 to mate together the slide interface and to snap the snap-fit interface into the latched configuration. The second mechanical interface <NUM> and the mechanical interface <NUM> allow the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> to be mechanically coupled to the mounting bracket <NUM> by sliding the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> in a first direction R3 along the first dimension D1 (e.g., along a second slide axis S2) to mate together the slide interface and to snap the snap-fit interface into the latched configuration. The second mechanical interface <NUM> and the mechanical interface <NUM> also allow the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> to be mechanically coupled to the mounting bracket <NUM> by sliding the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> in a second direction R4 along the first dimension D1 (e.g., along the second slide axis S2) to mate together the slide interface and to snap the snap-fit interface into the latched configuration. The second direction R4 is opposite the first direction R3.

In <FIG>, the enclosure <NUM> is disposed in a first orientation to mount to the mounting bracket along the first direction R3. In <FIG>, the enclosure <NUM> is disposed in a second orientation to mount to the mounting bracket along the second direction R4. The enclosure <NUM> is rotated <NUM> degrees between the first and second orientations. A cable port <NUM> defined by the enclosure <NUM> at the second end <NUM> faces downwardly in the first orientation (<FIG>) and faces upwardly in the second orientation (<FIG>).

As shown in <FIG>, the rear <NUM> of the enclosure <NUM> defines the mechanical interface <NUM>. The mechanical interface <NUM> includes a rail arrangement to retain the tab(s) <NUM> of the mounting bracket <NUM>. Each rail <NUM> has an overhang portion, a first cap defining a first internal shoulder <NUM> that is transverse to the overhang portion, and a second cap defining a second internal shoulder <NUM> (see <FIG>) that is transverse to the overhang portion. The second internal shoulder <NUM> is transverse to the first internal shoulder <NUM>. The overhang portion of each rail <NUM> extends partially over a recessed surface <NUM>. The recessed surface <NUM> is sufficiently recessed to accommodate the tab <NUM> between the recessed surface <NUM> and the overhang portion of the rail <NUM>. In certain examples, each rail <NUM> may be disposed at a corner of a pocket defining the recessed surface <NUM>. In other examples, the overhang portion of each rail <NUM> protrudes out from the rear <NUM> of the enclosure <NUM> sufficient to accommodate the tab <NUM>.

In certain examples, the mechanical interface <NUM> has the same number of rails <NUM> as the second mechanical interface <NUM> of the mounting bracket <NUM> has tabs <NUM>. In such examples, the rails <NUM> are positioned to each receive a corresponding tab <NUM> of the mounting bracket <NUM> when the enclosure <NUM> is mounted to the mounting bracket <NUM>. In certain examples, the rail arrangement includes a first set of rails <NUM> spaced along the length of the enclosure <NUM> from a second set of rails <NUM>. Each set of rails includes a first rail <NUM> having a first orientation and a second rail <NUM> having a second orientation. The first internal shoulders <NUM> of the rails <NUM> face in a common direction (e.g., towards the first end <NUM> of the enclosure <NUM>) regardless of the orientation of the rails <NUM>. The second internal shoulders <NUM> of the rails <NUM> in the first orientation are opposite the second internal shoulders <NUM> of the rails <NUM> in the second orientation.

When the enclosure <NUM> is mounted to the mounting bracket <NUM> along the second slide axis S2 along one direction R3, R4, each tab <NUM> of the mounting bracket <NUM> slides in the first dimension D1 beneath the overhang portion of the corresponding rail <NUM> until a shoulder <NUM>, <NUM> (depending on orientation of the enclosure) of each tab <NUM> engages the first internal shoulder <NUM> of the corresponding rail <NUM>. Accordingly, abutment between the shoulder <NUM>, <NUM> of the tab <NUM> and the first internal shoulder <NUM> of the rail <NUM> inhibits continued movement of the enclosure <NUM> along the first dimension in the one direction R3, R4. However, the rail <NUM> does not inhibit movement of the enclosure <NUM> in the opposite direction R4, R3 along the first dimension D1.

The engagement surface <NUM> of each tab <NUM> abuts the overhang portion of the corresponding rail <NUM>. Accordingly, abutment between the engagement surface <NUM> of the tabs <NUM> and the overhang portions of the rails <NUM> inhibits movement of the enclosure <NUM> relative to the mounting bracket <NUM> along the second dimension D2. An outer edge of each tab <NUM> engages or at least faces the second internal shoulder <NUM> of the corresponding rail <NUM>. Accordingly, abutment between the outer edges of the tabs <NUM> and the second internal shoulders <NUM> of the rails <NUM> inhibits movement of the enclosure <NUM> relative to the mounting bracket <NUM> along the third dimension D3. Accordingly, the rails <NUM> define the second part of the slide interface of the mechanical coupling interface.

The mechanical interface <NUM> also includes the second part of the snap-fit interface of the mechanical coupling interface. The second part of the snap-fit interface includes a catch arrangement that engages the latch member(s) <NUM> of the resilient latch arrangement <NUM>. The catch arrangement includes one or more catches each defining a shoulder <NUM> facing towards the first end <NUM> of the enclosure <NUM> and a ramped surface <NUM> facing towards the second end <NUM> of the enclosure <NUM>. In certain examples, the catch arrangement includes a first set of catches at a first side <NUM> of the rear <NUM> of the enclosure <NUM> and a second set of catches at a second side <NUM> of the rear <NUM> of the enclosure <NUM>. Each of the first and second sets includes a first catch <NUM> and a second catch <NUM>. Each of the first and second catches <NUM>, <NUM> defines a corresponding shoulder <NUM> and ramped surface <NUM>. In some examples, the catches <NUM>, <NUM> are disposed within recessed surfaces <NUM>. In other examples, the catches <NUM>, <NUM> may protrude rearwardly from the rear <NUM> of the enclosure <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, when the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> is slid onto the mounting bracket <NUM> along the first dimension D1 in the first direction R3, the latch member <NUM> of each latch arm <NUM> of the mounting bracket <NUM> slides over the ramped surface <NUM> of a corresponding second catch <NUM>. A first shoulder <NUM> of each latch member <NUM> abuts the shoulder <NUM> of the respective second catch <NUM> to inhibit movement of the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> relative to the mounting bracket <NUM> in the second direction R4 (see <FIG>). This configuration of the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> and the mounting bracket <NUM> is referred to as the latched configuration.

As noted above, abutment between the shoulders <NUM> of the tabs <NUM> and the first internal shoulders <NUM> of the rails <NUM> inhibits continued movement of the enclosure <NUM> along the first dimension in the first direction R3 (see <FIG>). Accordingly, the snap-fit interface inhibits movement of the enclosure <NUM> relative to the mounting bracket <NUM> along the first dimension D1 when transitioned into the latched configuration.

With reference to <FIG>, when the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> is slid onto the mounting bracket <NUM> along the first dimension D1 in the second direction R4, the enclosure <NUM> is first flipped to the second orientation. For example, in the first orientation, the first end <NUM> of the enclosure <NUM> is positioned closer to the first end <NUM> of the mounting bracket and the second end <NUM> of the enclosure is positioned closer to the second end <NUM> of the mounting bracket <NUM> when the enclosure <NUM> is mounted to the mounting bracket <NUM>; and in the second orientation, the first end <NUM> of the enclosure <NUM> is positioned closer to the second end <NUM> of the mounting bracket and the second end <NUM> of the enclosure is positioned closer to the first end <NUM> of the mounting bracket <NUM> when the enclosure <NUM> is mounted to the mounting bracket <NUM>.

The latch member <NUM> of each latch arm <NUM> of the mounting bracket <NUM> first slides over the ramped surface <NUM> of a corresponding second catch <NUM>. However, the tabs <NUM> of the mounting bracket <NUM> are still spaced from the rails <NUM> of the enclosure <NUM> in this position. Accordingly, the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> continues to slide along the first dimension D1 in the second direction R4 until the tabs <NUM> engage the first internal shoulders <NUM> of the rails <NUM>. Each latch member <NUM> also slides over the ramped surface <NUM> of the first catch <NUM> (see <FIG>).

A second shoulder <NUM> of each latch member <NUM> abuts the shoulder <NUM> of the first catch <NUM> to inhibit movement of the telecommunications enclosure <NUM> relative to the mounting bracket <NUM> in the first direction R3 (see <FIG>). This configuration of the enclosure <NUM> and the mounting bracket <NUM> is referred to as the latched configuration. As noted above, abutment between the shoulders <NUM> of the tabs <NUM> and the first internal shoulders <NUM> of the rails <NUM> inhibits continued movement of the enclosure <NUM> along the first dimension in the second direction R4 (see <FIG>). Accordingly, the snap-fit interface inhibits movement of the enclosure <NUM> relative to the mounting bracket <NUM> along the first dimension D1 when transitioned into the latched configuration.

Claim 1:
A fiber optic system comprising:
a mounting bracket (<NUM>) having a length and a width, the length being larger than the width, the mounting bracket having a first mechanical interface (<NUM>) including a first part of a slide interface and a first part of a snap-fit interface; and
a telecommunications enclosure (<NUM>) having a second mechanical interface (<NUM>) detachably mountable to the first mechanical interface, the second mechanical interface including a second part of the slide interface and a second part of the snap-fit interface;
the first and second mechanical interfaces enabling the telecommunications enclosure to mount to the mounting bracket selectively in a first orientation relative to the mounting bracket and in a second orientation relative to the mounting bracket;
wherein the first and second mechanical interfaces are configured to detachably mount together when the second mechanical interface slides relative to the first mechanical interface along a slide axis (S1) that extends parallel with the width of the mounting bracket; and
wherein the first mechanical interface is configured to enable the telecommunications enclosure to detachably mount to the mounting bracket in the first orientation by sliding the telecommunications enclosure relative to the mounting bracket selectively in a first direction (R1) along the slide axis or in a second direction (R2) along the slide axis, the second direction being opposite the first direction.