WO2019117950A1

WO2019117950A1 - Fiber optic cable retainer with conical wedges

Info

Publication number: WO2019117950A1
Application number: PCT/US2017/066736
Authority: WO
Inventors: Donald GROSS; Iuliu GORDEA
Original assignee: All Systems Broadband Inc
Current assignee: Amphenol Network Solutions Inc
Priority date: 2017-12-15
Filing date: 2017-12-15
Publication date: 2019-06-20
Anticipated expiration: 2020-06-15

Abstract

A fiber optic hardware assembly includes a fiber optic cable retainer module including a base section, a first fiber optic cable port extending away from a first side, a second fiber optic cable port extending away from a second, opposite facing side, a conduit between the first and second fiber optic cable ports, and first and second retention mechanisms. The retention mechanisms secure the fiber optic cable retainer module to a mounting structure. The first and second fiber optic cable ports and the conduit collectively provide a passage that permits a loose fiber optic cable to pass through the fiber optic cable retainer module. The assembly further includes a cable wedge that is insertable in the second fiber optic cable port. The cable wedge has a central opening that maintains open communication between first and second opposite facing ends of the cable wedge.

Description

FIBER OPTIC CABLE RETAINER WITH CONICAL WEDGES

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention generally relates to optical communications equipment, and particularly relates to hardware for affixing fiber optical cabling to a fixed location.

BACKGROUND

Today’s communication networks provide transport of voice, video and data to both residential and commercial customers, with more and more of those customers being connected by fiber optic cables. In these communication networks, information is transmitted from one location to another by sending pulses of light through the fiber optic cables. Fiber optic transmission provides several advantages over electrical transmission techniques, such as increased bandwidth and lower losses.

Delivery of fiber optic communication services from a service provider to a customer is effectuated by interfacing service provider cabling with customer cabling at one or more termination points. Termination points include enclosed boxes, equipment racks, bulkheads, shelves, etc. that accommodate fiber optical terminations and the associated circuitry. Installers use a variety of hardware to effectuate fiber optic terminations at termination points. Examples of this

One common challenge that fiber optic installers face relates to the secure fastening of fiber optic cable at termination points. Industry standards require terminated fiber optic cable to be able to withstand significant pull out forces. One example of such an industry standard is Telordia GR-326-CORE, which requires a cable retention force of 4.4 lb-f (pound-feet). Thus, there is a need for hardware that physically couples fiber optic cabling to a secure location within a termination point. This can be challenging in many instances, as termination points can be overcrowded and congested with fiber optic cabling and equipment. Known hardware solutions for securely affixing loose fiber optic cabling do not adequately meet these needs, particularly when there is need to fasten multiple fiber optic cables together.

SUMMARY

A fiber optic hardware assembly is disclosed. According to an embodiment, the fiber optic hardware assembly includes a fiber optic cable retainer module. The fiber optic cable retainer module includes a base section having a First side and a second side opposite the first side, a first fiber optic cable port extending away from the first side, a second fiber optic cable port extending away from the second side in an opposite direction as the first fiber optic cable port, and first and second retention mechanisms disposed at opposite ends of the base section. Each of the first and second retention mechanisms are configured to securely retain the fiber optic cable retainer module to a mounting structure with complementary features. The first and second fiber optic cable ports and the conduit collectively provide a passage that permits a loose fiber optic cable to pass completely through the fiber optic cable retainer module. The assembly further includes a cable wedge that is insertable in the second fiber optic cable port. The cable wedge comprises a central opening that maintains open communication between a first end of the cable wedge and a second end of the cable wedge that is opposite the first end.

According to another embodiment, the fiber optic hardware assembly includes a fiber optic cable retainer module. The fiber optic cable retainer module includes first and second fiber optic cable ports that are spaced apart from one another, a retention mechanism that is configured to securely affix the fiber optic cable retainer module to a planar surface, and a conduit between the first and second fiber optic cable ports. The first and second fiber optic cable ports and the conduit collectively provide a passage that permits a loose fiber optic cable to pass completely through the fiber optic cable retainer module. The assembly further includes a cable wedge that is insertable in the second fiber optic cable port. The cable wedge has a central opening that maintains open communication through the passage when the cable wedge is inserted in the cable wedge. The central opening extends completely between first and second ends of the cable wedge. The cable wedge is tapered such that a diameter of outer walls of the cable wedge decreases moving from the first end to the second end.

A fiber optic cable retainer module is disclosed. According to an embodiment, the fiber optic cable retainer module includes a base section having a first side and a second side opposite the first side, a first fiber optic cable port extending away from the first side, a second fiber optic cable port extending away from the second side in an opposite direction as the first fiber optic cable port, and a conduit in the base section between the first and second fiber optic cable ports. The first and second fiber optic cable ports and the conduit collectively provide a passage that permits a loose fiber optic cable to pass completely through the fiber optic cable retainer module. The first and second fiber optic cable ports are cylindrically shaped.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Fig. 1, which includes Figs. 1A and 1B, depicts a two-port fiber optic cable retainer module, according to an embodiment. Fig. 1A depicts a side-perspective view of the two-port fiber optic cable retainer module, and Fig. 1B depicts an isometric-perspective view of the two- port fiber optic cable retainer module.

Fig. 2, which includes Figs. 2A and 2B, depicts a four-port fiber optic cable retainer module, according to an embodiment. Fig. 2A depicts a side-perspective view of the four-port fiber optic cable retainer module, and Fig. 2B depicts an isometric-perspective of the four-port fiber optic cable retainer module. Fig. 3, which includes Figs. 3A and 3B, depicts a cable wedge that is insertable in the fiber optic ports of the fiber optic cable retainer module, according to an embodiment. Fig. 3A depicts a side-perspective view of the cable wedge, and Fig. 3B depicts a top view of the cable wedge looking into a central opening of the cable wedge.

Fig. 4 depicts a four-port fiber optic cable retainer module with cable wedges inserted in the fiber optic cable ports, according to an embodiment.

Fig. 5 depicts a four-port fiber optic cable retainer module with cable wedges used to securely fasten a splayed fiber optic cable to the fiber optic cable retainer module, according to an embodiment.

Fig. 6, which includes Figs. 6A and 6B, depicts a two-port fiber optic cable retainer and a four-port fiber optic cable retainer each being positioned for insertion into correspondingly shaped openings of a panel, according to an embodiment. Fig. 6A depicts a top- view perspective of the fiber optic cable retainer module and the panel, and Fig. 6B depicts an isometric-view perspective of the fiber optic cable retainer module and the panel.

Fig. 7, which includes Figs. 7A and 7B, depicts a two-port fiber optic cable retainer and a four-port fiber optic cable retainer being inserted into correspondingly shaped openings of a panel, according to an embodiment. Fig. 7A depicts a top- view perspective of the fiber optic cable retainer module and the panel, and Fig. 7B depicts an isometric-view perspective of the fiber optic cable retainer module and the panel.

Fig. 8, which includes Figs. 8A and 8B, depicts a two-port fiber optic cable retainer and a four-port fiber optic cable retainer being inserted into a bulkhead with mounting rails that are designed to engage with the retention mechanisms of the fiber optic cable retainers. Fig. 8 A depicts a top-view perspective of the fiber optic cable retainer module and the bulkhead, and Fig. 8B depicts an isometric-view perspective of the fiber optic cable retainer module and the bulkhead.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

According to embodiments described herein, a fiber optic hardware assembly for securely affixing a plurality of fiber optic cables (i.e., two or more fiber optic cables) to a fixed location within a termination point (e.g., a bulkhead or panel) is disclosed. The fiber optic hardware assembly includes a fiber optic cable retainer module. The fiber optic cable retainer module includes a base section with pairs of fiber optic cable ports extending away from one another in opposite directions. Conduits are provided between the pairs of fiber optic cable ports that provide a passage which permits a loose fiber optic cable to pass completely through the fiber optic cable retainer module. The base section further includes a retention mechanism with features that are designed to secure fiber optic cable retainer module to a fixed location. Additionally, the fiber optic hardware assembly includes cable wedges that are dimensioned for insertion into the fiber optic cable ports. The cable wedges may have a generally conical shape with a hollow central opening, and may be formed from a material with a soft, elastic composition.

The fiber optic cable retainer module and the cable wedges collectively provide a system for securely affixing the fiber optic cables to a fixed location with a great degree of strain relief for the fiber optic cables. The cylindrical shape of cable wedge distributes pulling force applied to a fiber optic cable evenly over a relatively large surface area. Moreover, the cable wedge can be designed to absorb pulling forces. As a result, a substantial amount of force can be applied to the fiber optic cables that are secured by the fiber optic cable retainer module without breaking these cables. The system eliminates the need for other costly and/or burdensome cable fastening solutions such as glue or crimp assembly. Minimal time and effort for cable preparation is required, as an installer only needs to strip and splay a portion of the protective exterior jacket from the optical cable. An additional advantage of the system is flexibility with respect to different connector types and cable diameters. The fiber optic cable ports can be dimensioned to match a variety of standard connector types, and different cable wedges can be used to provide compatibility a variety of different cable diameters.

Referring to Fig. 1, a fiber optic cable retainer module 100 is depicted, according to an embodiment. The fiber optic cable retainer module 100 can be formed from rigid or quasi-rigid materials such as hard plastics, metals, and metal alloys. One or more of these materials can be sintered, molded, or injection molded, for example. The fiber optic cable retainer module 100 includes a base section 102, a pair of first fiber optic cable ports 104, a pair of second fiber optic cable ports 106, a conduit 108 in the base section 102, and a pair of retention mechanisms 110.

The base section 102 includes a front panel section 112 with a planar outer face 126 that provides a front side 114 of the fiber optic cable retainer module 100. The front panel section 112 may be elongated. That is, a length of the front panel section 112 as measured between opposite ends of the front panel section 112 may exceed a width of the front panel section 112 as measured between the planar outer face 126 and an inner face that is opposite from the planar outer face 126.

The base section 102 additionally includes an arch shaped section 116 with curved outer walls. The arch shaped section 116 provides a rear side 118 of the fiber optic cable retainer module 100 that is opposite, i.e., faces away from, the front side 114 of the base section 102. In the depicted embodiment, the arch shaped section 116 includes two branches. Each branch has a curved portion 120 that provides the curved outer walls and a straight portion 122 that extends towards the front panel section 112. The base section 102 additionally includes a central bridge 124 that directly adjoins the curved portions 120 of the arch shaped section 116. The central bridge 124 connects the arch shaped section 116 together with the front panel section 112. Thus, the front panel section 112, the central bridge 124, and the arch shaped section 116 form a continuous structure.

The first fiber optic cable ports 104 extend away from the front side 114 of the base section 102 in a direction that is substantially perpendicular to the planar outer face 126 of the front panel section 112. The first fiber optic cable ports 104 may have a substantially cylindrical shape with central openings 128 (shown in Figs. 6 and 7). The central openings 128 of the first fiber optic cable ports 104 extend through the center of the first fiber optic cable ports 104 and penetrate through the front panel section 112. Thus, the first fiber optic cable ports 104 provide open communication between the front side 114 of the fiber optic cable retainer module 100 and an interior region that is between the front panel section 112 and the arch shaped section 116.

The second fiber optic cable ports 106 extend in a direction that is substantially parallel to the direction of extension of the first fiber optic cable ports 104. Thus, the first and second fiber optic cable ports 104, 106 extend away from one another in opposite directions. The second fiber optic cable ports 106 may have a substantially cylindrical shape with central openings 140. The central openings 140 extend through the center of the second fiber optic cable ports 106 and penetrate through the curved portions 120 of the arch shaped section 116. Thus, the second fiber optic cable ports 106 provide open communication between the rear side 118 of the fiber optic cable retainer module 100 and the interior region that is between the front panel section 112 and the arch shaped section 116. The second fiber optic cable ports 106 may have different dimensions than the first fiber optic cable ports 104. For example, a diameter of the outer walls of the second fiber optic cable ports 106 and/or a diameter of the inner walls 142 of the second fiber optic cable ports 106 may be larger than corresponding diameters of the first fiber optic cable ports 104. The conduits 108 are provided in the interior region of the fiber optic cable retainer module 100 that is between the front panel section 112 and the arch shaped section 116. A conduit 108 is provided between each opposing pair of first and second fiber optic cable ports 104, 106. The conduits 108 are provided on either side of the central bridge 124. Each conduit 108 in combination with an opposing pair of the first and second fiber optic cable ports 104, 106 collectively provides a passage that permits loose fiber optic cable to pass completely through the fiber optic cable retainer module 100. That is, the first and second fiber optic cable ports 106 together with the conduit 108 form a chute between the front side 114 and rear side 118 of the fiber optic cable retainer module 100 for fiber optic cable to pass through.

According to an embodiment, for least one (and optionally each one) of the opposing pars of first and second fiber optic cable ports 104, 106, the central opening 128 of the first fiber optic cable port 104 is aligned with the central opening 140 of the second fiber optic cable port 106. That is, when seen from directly above the first or second fiber optic cable ports 106, 104 the central openings 128, 140 of the opposing pairs of first and second fiber optic cable ports 104, 106 overlap with one another so that a direct open path through the fiber optic cable retainer module 100 exits.

The retention mechanisms 110 are disposed at opposite ends of the base section 102. The retention mechanisms 110 are configured to securely affix the fiber optic cable retainer module 100 to a mounting structure with complementary features, i.e., features that are dimensioned to fit within the retention mechanism in a way that physically couples the fiber optic cable retainer module 100 to the mounting structure. Detailed examples of this will be described in further detail below with reference to Figs. 6-8.

In the depicted embodiment, the retention mechanisms 110 include each include a ramp 144 and a detent 146. The detent 146 is formed in the inner face of the front panel section 112. A recessed planar face 148 of the detent 146 is spaced apart from is substantially parallel to a planar end face 150 of the arch shaped section 116. The ramp 144 protrudes away from the outer walls of the arch shaped section 116 along the straight portion 122 of the arch shaped section 116. The ramp 144 includes an inclined planar face 152 that is disposed at an obtuse angle relative to the outer wall it protrudes away from. In addition, the ramp 144 includes a planar front face 154 that forms a substantially perpendicular angle with the outer wall that it protrudes away from.

Referring to Fig. 2, a fiber optic cable retainer module 100 is depicted, according to another embodiment. The fiber optic cable retainer module 100 of Fig. 2 is substantially similar to the fiber optic cable retainer module 100 of Fig. 1, with the exception of the number of fiber optic cable ports. Instead of two pairs of the first and second fiber optic cable ports 104, 106 as depicted in Fig. 1, the embodiment of Fig. 2 includes four pairs of the first and second fiber optic cable ports 104, 106. Thus, instead of providing two passages for fiber optic cables, as is the case in the embodiment of Fig. 1, the fiber optic cable retainer module 100 in the embodiment of Fig. 2 provides four passages for fiber optic cables. A conduit 108 is provided between each spaced apart pair of the first and second fiber optic cable ports 104, 106 in the same manner as previously described. In this case, the fiber optic cable retainer module 100 includes three of the central bridges 124 extending between the arch shaped section 116s and the front panel section 112.

The fiber optic cable retainer modules 100 shown in Figs. 1 and 2 represent just two examples of potential port configurations for the fiber optic cable retainer module 100. More generally, the fiber optic cable retainer module 100 can include any plurality (e.g., two, three, four, five, etc.) of the first and second fiber optic cable ports 104, 106.

Referring to Fig. 3, a cable wedge 200 is depicted, according to an embodiment. The cable wedge 200 is insertable in the second fiber optic cable ports 206 of the fiber optic cable retainer module 100. This means that the dimensioning and material composition of the cable wedge 200 is such that the cable wedge 200 will fit into one of the central openings 140 of the second fiber optic cable ports 206 using modest force and manipulation by hand from an installer. According to an embodiment, the dimensioning and material composition of the cable wedge 200 is such that the cable wedge 200 presses against the inner walls 142 of the second fiber optic cable port 106 when inserted in the second fiber optic cable port 206. While the maximum diameter of the cable wedge 200 may be slightly greater than the diameter of the central openings 140 of the second fiber optic cable ports 206, in some embodiments, the cable wedge 200 has sufficient compressibility to be able to enter the second fiber optic cable port 206 with modest pressure. That is, the material composition of the cable wedge 200 is sufficiently elastic such that the cable wedge 200 is easily compressed using tactile force. Generally speaking, the cable wedge 200 can be made from any of a variety of compressible materials, such as plastics, such as Styrofoam, and soft rubbers. Alternatively, less compressible materials can be used for the cable wedge 200, provided that the dimensioning of the cable wedge 200 provides sufficient clearance for entry of one end into the fiber optic cable ports 206. Examples of these harder materials include metal, harder plastics and rubber.

The cable wedge 200 has a central opening 202. The central opening 202 maintains open communication between first and second opposite facing ends 204, 206 of the cable wedge 200. That is, the central opening 202 extends completely from the first end 204 to the second end 206 such that a complete passage is provided through a center of the cable wedge 200. According to an embodiment, the central opening 202 is cylindrically shaped. That is, the inner walls 208 of the cable wedge 200 that surround the central opening 202 form a circle. More generally, the central opening 202 can have any of a variety of geometries that provide open communication between the first and second ends 204, 206. A diameter of the central opening 202 can be, but is not necessarily, consistent throughout the length of the cable wedge 200 from the first end 204 to the second end 206.

According to an embodiment, the cable wedge 200 tapers inward moving from the first end 204 to the second end 206. That is, a diameter of the cable wedge 200 as measured between outer walls 210 of the cable wedge 200 decreases along the length of the cable wedge 200 as measured between the first 204 end the second end 206. The depicted embodiment represents one example of a tapered configuration wherein the cable wedge 200 is conically shaped. That is, the outer walls 210 of the cable wedge 200 have a circular geometry, and a circumference of the circle formed by the outer walls 210 gradually decreases moving from the first end 204 to the second end 206. More generally, the outer walls 210 can have a variety of shapes, e.g., square, polygon, etc. Moreover, the taper may not be uniform. For example, the cable wedge 200 may include step shaped transitions or other acute changes in outer circumference.

Referring to Fig. 4, a fiber optic cable retainer module 100 and a plurality of the cable wedges 200 are shown, according to an embodiment. One of the cable wedges 200 is positioned for insertion above one of the second fiber optic cable ports 106. The remaining cable wedges 200 have been inserted into the remaining second fiber optic cable ports 106.

The tapering of the cable wedge 200 is correlated to the dimensioning of the second fiber optic cable port 106. That is, the outer dimensions of the cable wedge 200 are dependent upon the interior dimensions of the second fiber optic cable port 106. This dependency is such that the cable wedge 200 can be inserted into the second fiber optic cable port 106 with minimal force, and, when inserted, the outer walls 210 of the cable wedge 200 press against the inner walls 142 of the second fiber optic cable port 106. For example, according to an embodiment, a first diameter of the second fiber optic cable port 106 is correlated to second and third diameters of the cable wedge 200. The first diameter is a minimum separation distance between the inner walls 142 of the second fiber optic cable port 106. The second diameter is a diameter of the outer walls 210 of the cable wedge 200 at the first end 204 of the cable wedge 200. The third diameter is a diameter of the outer walls 210 of the cable wedge 200 at the second end 206 of the cable wedge 200. These diameters are correlated such that the second diameter is greater than the first diameter and the third diameter is less than the second diameter. As a result of this correlation, the tapering of the cable wedge 200 is such that somewhere between the first and second ends 204, 206 of the cable wedge the diameter of the outer walls 210 of the cable wedge 200 is equal to that of the inner walls 142 of the second fiber optic cable port 106. In this way, the second end 206 of the cable wedge 200 can be inserted into the second fiber optic cable port 106 and, as the cable wedge 200 is further inserted, eventually the outer walls 210 of the cable wedge 200 will press against the inner walls 142 of the second fiber optic cable port 106.

Referring to Fig. 5, an assembly that includes the fiber optic cable retainer module 100, the cable wedges 200 and fiber optic cables 300 is depicted, according to an embodiment. In this assembly, a fiber optic cable 300 extends through each one of the passages provided by the conduits 108 the first and second fiber optic cable ports 104, 106. Thus, the fiber optic cables 300 each extended completely through the fiber optic cable retainer module 100. The fiber optic cables 300 may be so-called pigtail cables, i.e., a fiber optic cable with exposed or expose-able optical fiber at one and a standardized connector (not shown) at the opposite end. In the depicted embodiment, the fiber optic cables 300 include a jacketed portion 302 wherein an electrically insulating exterior jacket 304 covers the interior optical fiber 306. This exterior jacket 304 can be made of a relatively thin (e.g., 250 pm) plastic that directly covers and surrounds the optical fibers 306. On the other side of the fiber optic cable retainer module 100, the interior optical fiber 306 of the fiber optic cables 300 is exposed from the exterior jacket 304. As a result, the fiber optic cables 300 include an exposed fiber portion 308. At a transition between the exposed fiber portion 308 and the jacketed portion 302, the exterior jacket 304 is splayed. That is, one or more vertical slits 310 are formed in the exterior jacket 304 so that portions of the exterior jacket 304 fan out away from one another.

To arrive at the arrangement depicted in Fig. 5, the installer can prepare individual fiber optic cables 300 by partially stripping the exterior jacket 304 away to produce the exposed fiber portion 308. In addition, the splays can be formed by cutting the exterior jacket 304.

Subsequently, the stripped fiber optic cable 300 is inserted into one of the first fiber optic cable ports 104, through the adjacent conduit 108, and through the opposite facing second fiber optic cable port 306 on the other side of the conduit 108. The fiber optic cable 300 is positioned such that the splayed transition is disposed in the second fiber optic cable port 106. Subsequently, a cable boot 312 can be provided around the first fiber optic cable port 104. The cable boot 312 can be a standardized endpoint structure that acts as a bend limiting mechanism for the fiber optic cable 300. When in place, the cable boot 312 resists lateral pulling forces such that the fiber optic cable 300 cannot be pivoted around the first fiber optic cable port 104 at a sharp angle. To this end, the outer diameter of the fiber optic cable port 104 can be dimensioned to be compatible with any standardized and/or commercially available bend limiting boot.

After the fiber optic cables 300 are stripped and inserted through the passages of the fiber optic cable retainer module 100 in the above described manner, the cable wedges 200 are used to securely affix the fiber optic cable 300 in a way that protects the exposed optical fibers 306. This is done as follows. The splayed portions of the exterior jacket 304 are pulled away from one another so that there is clearance between the exterior jacket 304 and the optical fiber 306 within the second fiber optic cable port 106, e.g., as shown in the leftmost second fiber optic cable port 106 in the figure. Subsequently, the cable wedge 200 is inserted into the second fiber optic cable port 206 so that the exterior jacket 304 is pressed against interior walls of the second fiber optic cable port 106 by the cable wedge 200, e.g., as shown in the three rightmost second fiber optic cable ports 106 in the figure.

The cable wedge 200 in conjunction with the splayed fiber optic cable 300 as depicted in the three rightmost second fiber optic cable ports 106 of Fig. 5 provides a secure fit that retains the fiber optic cable 300 tightly within the second fiber optic cable ports 106. This secure fit is aided by compressive force generated by the cable wedge 200 (in the case that the cable wedge 200 is formed from a compressible material) and/or compressive force generated by the exterior jacket 304 of the fiber optic cable 300. When the cable wedge 200 is inserted into the second fiber optic cable port 106 with the fiber optic cable 300 splayed as depicted, the cable wedge 200 generates pressure that presses the splayed exterior jacket 304 against the inner walls 142 of the second fiber optic cable port 106. Meanwhile, the exposed optical fiber 306 that is routed through the central opening 202 of the cable wedge 200 is substantially restricted in its movement. This exposed optical fiber 306 is substantially protected from damage because the soft and compressible material composition of the cable wedge 200 prevents the exposed optical fiber 306 from being pinched around abrupt hard surfaces of the fiber optic cable retainer module 100. That is, the exposed optical fiber 306 can be pulled in a direction that is non-perpendicular to the direction of extension of the second fiber optic cable ports 106, and the cable wedge 200 provides a cushion that absorbs a substantial amount of acute pressure at the end of the second fiber optic cable port 106.

Additionally, the cable wedge 200 in conjunction with the splayed fiber optic cable 300 as depicted in the three rightmost second fiber optic cable ports 106 of Fig. 5 physically decouples the exterior jacket 304 from the optical fiber 306. That is, once the exterior jacket 304 is splayed and pressed against the interior walls of the second fiber optic cable port 106, tensile force applied exterior jacket 304 is independent from the optical fiber 306. Thus, the pinching of the exterior jacket 304 protects the terminated optical fiber 306 from external pull out forces by providing an alternate tension point to transfer external forces applied at the jacketed portion 302.

The clamping force generated by the cable wedge 200 against the splayed fiber optic cable 300 within the second fiber optic cable port 106 depends upon a number of factors, such as the material composition (e.g., compressibility) of the cable wedge 200 and/or the exterior jacket 304 of the fiber optic cable 300. In addition, the dimensioning and geometric design of the second fiber optic cable port 106 and the cable wedge 200 influence the amount of retention force generated that decouples the splayed fiber optic cable 300 from the interior optical fiber 306. For example, instead of the depicted design, different surface features (e.g., roughened surfaces, step-shaped surfaces, interlocking surfaces, etc.) can be provided on the inner walls 142 of the second fiber optic cable port 106 and/or the outer surfaces of the cable wedge 200.

Referring to Figs. 6-7, an example of using the retention mechanisms 110 to secure the fiber optic cable retainer module 100 to a fixed location is depicted, according to an

embodiment. In this example, the fiber optic cable retainer module 100 is secured to a panel 400 with an opening 402 that is dimensioned to receive the fiber optic cable retainer module 100. The panel 400 may be provided within a termination box of a fiber optic termination point. The dimensioning of the fiber optic cable retainer module 100 can be correlated to the width of the opening 400 (i.e., the distance between the opposing lateral edge sides of the openings) such that a maximum distance between the outer walls 156 of the arch shaped section 116 is slightly less than the width of the opening 402. For example, the maximum distance between the outer walls 156 of the arch shaped section 116 can be about 1-2 nm less than the width of the opening 402 in one embodiment. In the depicted embodiment, the panel 400 includes two openings 402. A first opening 402 has a dimensioning that is correlated to the width of the fiber optic cable retainer module 100 with four of the first and second fiber optic cable ports 104, 106. A second opening 402 has a dimensioning that is correlated to the width of the fiber optic cable retainer module 100 with two of the first and second fiber optic cable ports 104, 106.

The fiber optic cable retainer module 100 is secured to the panel 400 in the following way. Initially, the fiber optic cable retainer module 100 is positioned in front of the panel 400 with the second side facing the front of the panel 400, i.e., as depicted in Fig. 6. The fiber optic cable retainer module 100 is moved towards the panel 400 so that the second side 118 of the fiber optic cable retainer module 100 penetrates the opening 402. As the fiber optic cable retainer module 100 is moved into the opening 402, the outer walls 156 of the arch shaped section 116 contact the lateral edge sides of the openings 142. The material composition of the fiber optic cable retainer module 100 permits a degree of flexing action so that, despite the fact that the maximum with of the fiber optic cable retainer module 100 is larger than the width of the opening 142, the fiber optic cable retainer module 100 can be slid through the opening 142. Moreover, the detent 146 provides clearance for the planar end face 150 of the arch shaped section 116 to pass so that, when the arch shaped section 116 flexes as it slides through the opening 142, the planar end face 150 of the arch shaped section 116 does not contact the front panel section 112.

After the fiber optic cable retainer module 100 is moved through the opening 142 in the above described manner, it remains securely affixed to the panel 400 by the interaction of the retention mechanisms 110 with the panel 400. The opposing surfaces of the retention mechanisms 110 restrict movement of the fiber optic cable retainer module 100 once secured in place in the manner depicted in Fig. 7. In particular, an inner face 158 of the front panel section 112 that is immediately adjacent to the detent 146 is flush against the front surface of the panel 400. Moreover, the end 160 of the arch shaped section 116 is flush against the rear surface of the panel 400. In this way, movement of the fiber optic cable retainer is restricted in both directions that are perpendicular to the panel 400. The fiber optic cable retainer module 100 can be removed from the opening 142 by squeezing the arch shaped section 116 such that it flexes inward and clears the lateral edge sides of the openings 142.

Referring to Fig. 8, an example of using the retention mechanisms 110 to secure the fiber optic cable retainer module 100 to a fixed location is depicted, according to another embodiment. In this example, the fiber optic cable retainer module 100 is secured to a bulkhead 500 with a pair of mounting rails. The mounting rails of the bulkhead 500 include features that are adapted to interact with the retention mechanisms 110 of the fiber optic cable retainer module 100. In particular, an outer mounting rail 502 of the bulkhead 500 includes a snap-in perforation 504.

The geometry of the snap-in perforation 504 is correlated to the footprint of the ramp 144. An inner mounting rail 506 has a width that is correlated to the separation distance between the ramp 144 and the inner face 158 (as shown in Fig. 7) of the front panel section 112. The dimensioning of the fiber optic cable retainer module 100 can be correlated to the distance between the inner and outer mounting rails 506, 502 such that a maximum distance between the outer walls 156 of the arch shaped section 116 is slightly less than (e.g., about 1-2 mm) the distance between the inner and outer mounting rail 502, 506.

The fiber optic cable retainer module 100 is secured to the bulkhead 500 in the following way. Initially, the fiber optic cable retainer module 100 is positioned in front of the bulkhead 500 with the second side facing 118 the front of the bulkhead 500, e.g., in a similar position as shown in Fig. 6. The fiber optic cable retainer module 100 is moved towards the bulkhead 500 so that the second side 118 of the fiber optic cable retainer module 100 penetrates through the gap between the outer and inner mounting rails 502, 506. As the fiber optic cable retainer module 100 is moved into the gap, the outer walls 156 of the arch shaped section 116 contact the outer and inner mounting rails 502, 506. The material composition of the fiber optic cable retainer module 100 permits a degree of flexing action so that, despite the fact that the maximum with of the fiber optic cable retainer module 100 is larger than the distance between the outer and inner mounting rails 502, 506, the fiber optic cable retainer module 100 can be slid through the outer and inner mounting rails 502, 506. Moreover, the detent 146 provides clearance for the end of the arch shaped section 116 so that, when the arch shaped section 116 flexes as it contacts the outer and inner mounting rails 502, 506, the planar end face 150 of the arch shaped section 116 does not contact the front panel section 112.

After the fiber optic cable retainer module 100 is moved through the gap between the inner and outer mounting rails 502, 506, it remains securely affixed to the bulkhead 500 by the interaction of the retention mechanisms 110 with the bulkhead 500. In particular, the inner face 158 of the front panel section 112 that is immediately adjacent to the detent 146 is flush against the front surfaces of the bulkhead 500. On the inner mounting rail 506, the inner face 158 of the front panel section 112 is flush against the planar face of the inner mounting rail 506. On the opposite side of the fiber optic cable retainer, the ramp 144 is engaged with the snap-in perforation 504 of the outer mounting rail 502. In particular, the planar front face 154 of the ramp 144 (as shown Fig. 1) is flush against an edge side of the snap-in perforation 504. In this way lateral movement of the fiber optic cable retainer module 100 is prevented. Moreover, upper and lower surfaces of the ramp 144 are flush against upper and lower edge sides of the snap-in perforation 504. In this way vertical movement of the fiber optic cable retainer module 100 is prevented. Moreover, in this state, the arch shaped section 116 remains compressed by the inner and outer mounting rails 502, 506. This compression provides additional force that secures the fiber optic cable retainer module 100 to the bulkhead 500.

The term“substantially” encompasses absolute conformity with a requirement as well as minor deviation from absolute conformity with the requirement due to manufacturing process variations, assembly, and other factors that may cause a deviation from the ideal. Provided that the deviations are not significant enough to prevent the structure from being assembled in the manner described herein, the term“substantially” encompasses any of these deviations.

Spatially relative terms such as“under,”“below,”“lower,”“over,”“upper” and the like, are used for ease of description to explain the positioning of one element relative to a second element. These terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in addition to different orientations than those depicted in the figures. Further, terms such as“first,” “second,” and the like, are also used to describe various elements, regions, sections, etc. and are also not intended to be limiting. Like terms refer to like elements throughout the description.

As used herein, the terms“having,”“containing,”“including,”“comprising” and the like are open-ended terms that indicate the presence of stated elements or features, but do not preclude additional elements or features. The articles“a,”“an” and“the” are intended to include the plural as well as the singular, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

Notably, modifications and other embodiments of the disclosed invention(s) will come to mind to one skilled in the art having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. Therefore, it is to be understood that the invention(s) is/are not to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of this disclosure. Although specific terms may be employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A fiber optic hardware assembly, comprising:

a fiber optic cable retainer module (100), comprising:

a base section (102) comprising a first side (114) and a second side (118) opposite the first side (114);

a first fiber optic cable port (104) extending away from the first side (114);

a second fiber optic cable port (106) extending away from the second side (118) in an opposite direction as the first fiber optic cable port (104);

a conduit (108) in the base section (102) between the first and second fiber optic cable ports (104, 106); and

first and second retention mechanisms (110) disposed at opposite ends of the base section (102), each of the first and second retention mechanisms (110) being configured to securely retain the fiber optic cable retainer module (100) to a mounting structure with complementary features,

wherein the first and second fiber optic cable ports (104, 106) and the conduit

(108) collectively provide a passage that permits a loose fiber optic cable to pass completely through the fiber optic cable retainer module (100); a cable wedge (200) that is insertable in the second fiber optic cable port (106), wherein the cable wedge (200) comprises a central opening (202) that maintains open communication between a first end (204) of the cable wedge (200) and a second end (206) of the cable wedge (200) that is opposite the first end (204).

2. The fiber optic hardware assembly of claim 1, wherein outer walls (210) of the cable wedge (200) taper inward from the first end (204) of the cable wedge (200) towards the second end (206) of the cable wedge (200).

3. The fiber optic hardware assembly of claim 2, wherein the cable wedge (200) is conically shaped.

4. The fiber optic hardware assembly of claim 3, wherein inner walls (142) of the second fiber optic cable port (106) are cylindrically shaped, wherein a first diameter corresponds to a minimum separation distance between the inner walls (142) of the second fiber optic cable port (106), wherein the outer walls (210) of the cable wedge (200) comprise a second diameter at the first end (204) of the cable wedge (200) and a third diameter at the second end (206) of the cable wedge (200), wherein the second diameter is greater than the first diameter, and wherein the third diameter is less than the first diameter.

5. The fiber optic hardware assembly of claim 1, further comprising:

a fiber optic cable (300) extending through the conduit (108), the first fiber optic cable port (104), and the second fiber optic cable port (106); and

a cable wedge (200) inserted in the second fiber optic cable port (106),

wherein the fiber optic cable (300) is routed through the central opening (202) of the cable wedge (200).

6. The fiber optic hardware assembly of claim 5, wherein the fiber optic cable comprises: an optical fiber (306);

a protective jacket (304) surrounding the optical fiber (306);

a jacketed portion (302) in which the protective jacket (304) covers the optical fiber (306);

an exposed fiber portion (308) in which the optical fiber (306) is exposed from the

protective jacket (304); and

a splayed transition between the jacketed portion (302) and the exposed fiber portion

(308) wherein the protective jacket (304) is fanned out into a plurality of splays, wherein the plurality of splays extend out of the second fiber optic cable port (106) and are pressed against inner walls (142) of the second fiber optic cable port (106) by the cable wedge (200).

7. The fiber optic hardware assembly of claim 6, wherein the cable wedge (200) is inserted in between the optical fiber (306) and the plurality of splays.

8. The fiber optic hardware assembly of claim 7, wherein the cable wedge (200) applies pressure to the splayed protective jacket (304) such that the protective jacket (304) is physically decoupled from the optical fiber (306).

9. The fiber optic hardware assembly of claim 1, wherein the base section (102) comprises: a first section (112) that provides the first side (114) of the base section (102);

an arch-shaped section (116) that provides the second side (118) of the base section

(102); a central bridge (124) that connects the first section (112) and the arch-shaped section (116) and extends in a direction perpendicular to the first and second sides (114, 118).

10. The fiber optic hardware assembly of claim 9, wherein each of the first and second retention mechanisms (110) comprise:

a ramp (144) that extends away from outer walls of the arch- shaped section (116); and a detent (146) in the first section (112) that faces an end of the arch-shaped section (116).

11. A fiber optic hardware assembly, comprising:

a fiber optic cable retainer module (100), comprising:

first and second fiber optic cable ports (104, 106) that are spaced apart from one another;

a retention mechanism (110) that is configured to securely affix the fiber optic cable retainer module (100) to a planar surface, and a conduit (108) between the first and second fiber optic cable ports (104, 106), wherein the first and second fiber optic cable ports (104, 106) and the conduit

(108) collectively provide a passage that permits a loose fiber optic cable to pass completely through the fiber optic cable retainer module (100), a cable wedge (200) that is insertable in the second fiber optic cable port (106), wherein the cable wedge (200) comprises a central opening (202) that maintains open communication through the passage when the cable wedge (200) is inserted in the cable wedge (200),

wherein the central opening (202) extends completely between first and second ends (204, 206) of the cable wedge (200), and

wherein the cable wedge (200) is tapered such that a diameter of outer walls (210) of the cable wedge (200) decreases moving from the first end (204) to the second end (206).

12. The fiber optic hardware assembly of claim 11, wherein the second fiber optic cable port (106) is cylindrically shaped and the cable wedge (200) is conically shaped.

13. The fiber optic hardware assembly of claim 12, wherein inner walls (142) of the second fiber optic cable port (106) are cylindrically shaped, wherein a first diameter corresponds to a minimum separation distance between the inner walls (142) of the second fiber optic cable port (106), wherein the outer walls (210) of the cable wedge (200) comprise a second diameter at the first end (204) of the cable wedge (200) and a third diameter at the second end (206) of the cable wedge (200), wherein the second diameter is greater than the first diameter, and wherein the third diameter is less than the first diameter.

14. The fiber optic hardware assembly of claim 11, wherein the central opening (202) of the cable wedge (200) is cylindrically shaped, and wherein a diameter of the central opening (202) is uniform throughout the central opening (202).

15. A fiber optic cable retainer module (100), comprising:

a first fiber optic cable port (104) extending away from the first side (114);

a second fiber optic cable port (106) extending away from the second side (118) in an opposite direction as the first fiber optic cable port (104); and

a conduit (108) in the base section (102) between the first and second fiber optic cable ports (104, 106);

wherein the first and second fiber optic cable ports (104, 106) and the conduit (108) collectively provide a passage that permits a loose fiber optic cable to pass completely through the fiber optic cable retainer module (100), and wherein the first and second fiber optic cable ports (104, 106) are cylindrically shaped.

16. The fiber optic cable retainer module (100) of claim 15, further comprising first and second retention mechanism (110), each of the first and second retention mechanism (110) being configured to securely retain the fiber optic cable retainer to a mounting structure with complementary features.

17. The fiber optic cable retainer module (100) of claim 16, wherein the base section (102) comprises:

a front panel (112) that provides the first side (114) of the base section (102);

an arch-shaped section (116) that provides the second side (118) of the base section (102);

a central bridge (124) that connects the front panel (112) and the arch-shaped section

(116) and extends in a direction perpendicular to the first and second sides (114, 118).

18. The fiber optic cable retainer module (100) of claim 17, wherein each of the first and second retention mechanisms (110) comprise:

a ramp (144) that extends away from outer walls of the arch- shaped section (116); and a detent (146) in the front panel (112) that faces an end of the arch- shaped section (116).

19. The fiber optic cable retainer module (100) of claim 18, wherein the ramp (144) comprises a planar face (152) that is spaced apart from and substantially parallel to first section (112), and wherein the detent (146) comprises a recessed planar face (148) that is spaced apart from and substantially parallel to the end of the arch-shaped section (116).

20. The fiber optic cable retainer module (100) of claim 15, wherein the fiber optic cable retainer module (100) comprises a plurality of the first fiber optic cable ports (104), a plurality of the of the second fiber optic cable ports (106), and a plurality of the conduits (108).