HK1246009A1 - Patch panel assembly - Google Patents

Description

Plug wire panel component

The application is a divisional application of patent applications with application dates of 2013, 1 month and 25 days, application numbers of 201380016146.9 (international application numbers of PCT/US2013/023176) and invention names of 'patch panel assemblies'.

Cross Reference to Related Applications

The disclosures of the claims of U.S. provisional patent application No. 61/591,714, filed on day 2012, 1, 27, application No. 61/598,041, U.S. provisional patent application No. 2, 13, filed on day 2012, and U.S. provisional patent application No. 61/666,346, filed on day 2012, 6, 29, are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties.

Technical Field

The present invention relates generally to devices and systems for supporting and managing communication connectors, adapters, and/or ports. In particular, the present invention relates to a communications patch panel device and system that facilitates access (access to) communications connectors, adapters, and/or ports supported by the device and system.

Background

In telecommunications cabinets and racks, multiple-strand cables are interconnected by splices (e.g., adapters). The cable organization unit typically has trays, racks or similar platforms that support splices (e.g., adapters). Examples of cable organization units include patch panels.

Patch panels house connectors and are often mounted to racks. Patch panels are typically two-sided. Typically, the front of the patch panel provides splices for relatively short cables, while the rear of the patch panel generally provides splices for relatively long wires or cables. This arrangement facilitates temporarily changing the front of the patch panel without disturbing the wiring behind the patch panel. In some cases, cables connected to the front of a patch panel may be interconnected with different patch panels and may be relatively short cables or may be part of relatively long cables. The patch panel facilitates interconnection, monitoring and circuit testing of devices without the need for expensive switching equipment.

The patch panel application was previously used for telephone switching, although it could also be used in a more automated fashion. Patch panels may also be extended for use in the entertainment industry (e.g., in recording and television studios). Patch panels may also be used in concert halls to manage connections between devices (e.g., microphones, speakers, and other electronic devices). Patch panels are valued not only for their convenience and relative cost effectiveness, but also for their ability to more easily detect problems such as feedback, ground loops, and static electricity.

Conventional fiber optic cable organizing units include a fiber optic shelf with a single patch panel or a plurality of modular panels on the front patch side of the shelf. It is desirable to provide patch panels with enhanced connector port density, i.e., the number of ports or locations per unit volume in the area used to provide the connection. For this reason, joints of smaller dimensions are increasingly being used.

A variety of fiber optic plugs are available, the most common of which are Subscriber Connectors (SC) or Lucent Connectors (LC). The differences between the different types of joints include dimensional specifications and mechanical joining methods. For example: SC splices use a circular 2.5mm ferrule to hold a single strand of optical fiber and a push/pull mating mechanism. The ferrule of the LC connector is half the size of the SC connector and measures only 1.25 mm. The LC connector uses a fixed bayonet mechanism similar to that used for home phone connectors.

Small connectors, such as LC connectors, are largely replacing conventional connectors, such as SC connectors, in data communication and radio applications. The major advantage of small splices over larger splices is the ability to provide a higher number of fibers per unit of rack space. Since the LC connectors are approximately half the size of the SC connectors, using LC connectors instead of SC connectors in the same amount of space can place almost twice the number of connectors.

However, there are disadvantages to using a smaller connector. As more joints are placed in the same amount of space, challenges are presented to accessing the joints, which are often operated by hand. Adult fingers typically have a diameter of 16 mm to 20 mm. Some people may have larger or malformed fingers. Thus, the use of small connectors, such as LC's with 1.25 mm diameter ferrules, for example, can be particularly difficult for technicians with large or inflexible hands. Generally, LC connectors are held together in a double configuration by plastic clips. When holding smaller sized LC connectors in a double configuration, it may be easier for a technician to access and/or remove the LC connectors, which at the same time means that both connectors will necessarily be affected during the maintenance phase.

There is a continuing need for new devices and systems to facilitate access to communications adapters and/or cables supported by communications patch devices and systems.

Disclosure of Invention

The present invention relates generally to communication patch panels and communication patch systems. In particular, the present invention relates to a patch panel that facilitates the placement, operation and/or maintenance of a plurality of relatively small connectors in close proximity to one another.

In one embodiment, a communications patch panel device can include a plurality of ports, each of which is operatively connected to a cable. A connection device connectable to the plurality of ports. The connection means may be switchable between a first state and a second state. The connection device may have a first length in the first state, the port being disposed along the first length. The connection device may have a second length in the second state, the port being disposed along the second length. The second length may exceed the first length. In the first state, adjacent ports may be separated by a first distance. In the second state, adjacent ports may be disposed a second distance apart, the second distance exceeding the first distance. In the second state, the ports may be arranged equally spaced apart from each other. The connection device may include an elastic member that sets the ports apart from each other by a preset interval in the second state of the patch panel.

The connecting means may comprise one or more rails slidable relative to each other to define the first length, the second length and an intermediate length therebetween. The one or more rails may be attached to the plurality of ports to determine the distance between the ports. Sliding the one or more rails relative to the other rail adjusts the distance between the ports to switch the connection device between the first length, the second length, and an intermediate length. The connection means may comprise a link having an adjustable length that switches between the first length, the second length and an intermediate length therebetween. The link may be coupled to the plurality of ports to determine a gap distance between adjacent ones of the ports, the gap distance corresponding to the adjustable length of the link. The connection means may include: a tray and a plurality of arms including a first portion and a second portion. The first portion of each of the arms may be pivotally connected to the tray. The second portion of each of the arms may be operably coupled to one of the plurality of ports, and pivoting of the arms may cause the connection device to switch between the first state and the second state.

In one embodiment, a communication patch panel device may include: a plurality of additional members. Each of the additional members may include a movable member having a joint including a front surface. The movable members are movable relative to each other to switch the communication patch panel device between a first condition in which the front surfaces are in a common plane and a second condition in which the front surfaces are in different planes. The joint may be separable from the movable member. The connector may be configured to releasably connect to a first cable at the front surface. The connector may further comprise a rear surface, which may be arranged to releasably connect to a second cable. The movable members may be rotatable relative to each other. The patch panel device may further include a tray defining a surface, and at least one securing member connecting the attachment member to the tray. The movable member may determine an angle with the tray surface, and the angle may be adjustable. In one embodiment, the angle can be adjusted between 0 and 135 degrees, and in a more specific embodiment, the angle can be adjusted between 0 and 90 degrees.

The communication patch panel may be configured to be supported by the housing. The housing may include a front face, and the panel may be movable away from the front face to switch from the first state to the second state when the communications patch panel is supported by the housing. In one embodiment, the communications patch panel can include a tray having a length configured to translate into and out of the housing.

In one embodiment, a communication patch panel system may include: a housing including a front end and a rear end; a patch panel device including a tray movable in an axis direction, the axis extending from the front end to the rear end of the housing, and a cable tensioner. The cable tensioner may include a first end secured in position with respect to the housing and a second end secured with the tray. The cable tensioner may be formed from a soft or bendable material. The cable tensioner may be switchable between a first state and a second state in response to translation of the tray at the front and rear ends of the housing, a portion of the cable tensioner having a larger radius of curvature in the second state than in the first state.

These and other features of the present invention will be described in further detail below in the detailed description of the invention and in conjunction with the following figures.

Drawings

Embodiments of the present application are described herein, by way of illustration only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1A is a front view of a communication patch system including a plurality of patch panel devices in a first state;

FIG. 1B is a schematic view of the communication patch system of FIG. 1A in a second state;

FIG. 2A is a schematic view of one of the patch panel devices of FIG. 1A in a first state;

FIG. 2B is a schematic diagram of the patch panel device of FIG. 2A in a second state;

FIG. 2C is an enlarged view of a specific range of FIG. 2B;

FIG. 3A is a top view of another embodiment of a patch panel device;

FIG. 3B is a top view of yet another embodiment of a patch panel device;

FIG. 4 is a front view of one embodiment of a patch panel device;

FIG. 5 is a partial front view of another embodiment of a patch panel device;

FIG. 6 is a partial front view of yet another embodiment of a patch panel device including a plurality of ports;

FIG. 6A is a perspective view of one of the ports of FIG. 6;

FIG. 7A is a top view of a patch panel device in a first state;

FIG. 7B is a top view of the patch panel device of FIG. 7A in a second state;

FIG. 8A is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of a patch panel device in a first state;

FIG. 8B is a perspective view of the patch panel device of FIG. 8A in a second state;

FIG. 9A is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of a patch panel device in a first state;

FIG. 9B is a perspective view of the patch panel device of FIG. 9A in a second state;

FIG. 10 is a front perspective view of a communication patch system including a plurality of patch panel devices;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of one of the patch panels of FIG. 10 including a plurality of additional members;

FIG. 12A is a schematic view of one of the attachment members of FIG. 11 in a first state;

FIG. 12B is a schematic view of the attachment member of FIG. 12A in a second state;

FIG. 13 is a fragmentary view of the attachment member of FIG. 12A with portions shown in isolation;

FIG. 14A is a perspective view of another embodiment of a patch panel including a plurality of attachment members;

FIG. 14B is a perspective view of the patch panel device of FIG. 14A with the cables separated by one of the additional members;

FIG. 14C is a perspective view of one of the attachment members of FIG. 14A in a first condition;

FIG. 14D is a perspective view of one of the attachment members of FIG. 14A in a second condition;

FIG. 15A is a top view of a communication patch system in a first state;

fig. 15B is a perspective view of the communication patch system of fig. 15A in a second state; and

fig. 16 is a top view of a cable tensioner.

Detailed Description

Specific embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the figures and the following description, where like reference numerals refer to similar or identical elements, the term "proximal" refers to the end of the device that is closest to the operator or user in use, and the term "distal" refers to the end of the device that is further from the operator or user in use.

The communication patch system 100 will now be described in conjunction with fig. 1A and 1B. The communication patching system 100 includes a housing 2 (e.g., a rack or cabinet). The housing 2 supports one or more patch panel devices 110. The housing 2 defines a length L, a height H and a width W₁. Each patch panel device 110 includes a plurality of adapters or ports 7, each port 7 having a receptacle 5 for securing a cable C (fig. 1B) therein. The receptacles 5 of the ports 7 may be operatively connected to one or more cables C (e.g., the receptacles 5 may be in a simplex or duplex configuration). The port 7 may include a mounting portion 51 that frames the port 7 and facilitates securing the port 7 or receptacle 5 to a connection device, such as rails 41, 43 (fig. 2C). As described below, in embodiments, the mounting portion 51 of the port 7 may be integral to the port 7, or may be attached to the receptacle 5 as a separate piece, and in some embodiments, the mounting portion may be part of the connection device to which the receptacle 5 is attached.

The patch panel device 110 includes tabs 11 at each end of the patch panel device 110 to facilitate a user's grip or grasp of the patch panel device 110. The number density of ports 7 supported by the housing 2 is the specification of the housing 2As a function of inch. As shown in FIG. 1A, each port 7 having a width x and a height y may be arranged in rows and columns, the number of ports 7 per row being directly related to the height H, and the number of ports 7 per column being related to the width W₁Are directly related.

The communication patching system 100 switches between a first state (fig. 1A) and a second state (fig. 1B). In the first state, one or more patch panel devices 110 are positioned in a first position with respect to the proximal end portion or plane P of the housing 2. As shown in fig. 1A, the patch panel device 110 may be substantially flush with respect to a plane P of the housing 2. In the second state, one or more patch panel devices 110 are moved approximately in the direction of directional arrow Z, away from the proximal end portion or plane P of housing 2. When the patch panel device 110 is moved approximately, the ports 7 may be positioned a gap or separation distance d from each other (fig. 1B).

As best shown in fig. 2A and 2B, respectively, the patch panel device 110 switches between first and second states. The patch panel device 110 includes tie bars 19 that facilitate mounting of the patch panel device 110 within the housing 2 by being secured to each of the opposing faces 2a of the housing 2 by one of the tie bars 19. A hinge arm member 114 including the first arm part 21 and the second arm part 31 is slidably connected to the link 19. The first arm member 21 includes a slot 25, the slot 25 being arranged to accommodate the pin 27 therethrough. Pin 27 secures first arm member 21 to link 19 while allowing first arm member 21 to slide along the length of channel 25 relative to link 19. The first arm part 21 and the second arm part 31 of the hinge arm member 114 are pivotally connected to each other by a hinge 33 so that the second arm part 31 rotates relative to the first arm part 21.

The port 7 may be operatively connected to a connection device 16. When the connecting device 16 is equal to the width W₁Is switched to expand to the width W₂(fig. 2B) the ports 7 may be movable or movably spaced apart. In one embodiment, the ports 7 are spaced apart. The ports 7 may be equally spaced apart by the same gap or spacing distance d. However, in the second state, between the adjacent ports 7The spacing distance d may be different, i.e. non-uniform. In addition, each port 7 can slide or move along the length of the connection device 16, thereby facilitating adjustment of the gap or separation distance d between adjacent ports 7 as desired by a user or technician.

It is contemplated that hinge arm member 114 may include a flange (not shown) that mates with a groove (not shown) defined by link 19, the groove extending through a portion or the entire length of link 19 to increase stability and control sliding of hinge arm member 114 relative to link 19.

As best shown in FIG. 2C, the linkage 16 may include one or more telescoping rails 41, 43 that are slidable with respect to each other to adjust the overall length of the linkage 16. Although shown in fig. 2C as having two parallel rails 41, 43, a single rail could be used. It is noted that the longer the length of the connecting means 16, the greater the gap or separation distance d that can be reached by adjacent ports 7. Each parallel track 41, 43 comprises alternating sections 41a, 41b and 43a, 43b, respectively. The parts 41a, 43a are arranged to be adapted to slide within the parts 41b, 43b, respectively, wherein the port 7 is connected to the parts 41b, 43b to enable lengthening or shortening of the connecting device 16. An elastic or biasing member (not shown) may be provided in the central void of each rail 41, 43 to bias the connecting device 16 to the first or second gauge W, respectively₁、W₂。

The parts 41b, 43b may define an open circumference, the ports 7 will not obstruct alternate parts 41a, 41b and 43a, 43b from moving relative to each other, so that the ports 7 may move closer to each other. In addition, the length of alternating members 41a, 41b and 43a, 43b may be selected to facilitate placing ports 7 closer to each other such that adjacent ports are in contact with each other. Each port 7 may be secured to a rail 41, 43 in a variety of ways or may be integral to a rail 41, 43. It is envisaged that in other embodiments the rails 41, 43 may be replaced by different attachment means. In one embodiment, the rails 41, 43 may be replaced by elastic bands.

Another embodiment of a wire panel device will now be described with reference to fig. 3A. The wiring panel device 120A may include a link 60, the link 60 being mounted in the housing 2 described above with respect to the communication patching system 100. The sleeve 62 is pivotally connected to each link 60 by a hinge 227, and the sleeve angularly moves with respect to the link 60 to facilitate angular adjustment of the sleeve 62 with respect to the link through an angle θ. Arm members 61 slidably translate through each sleeve 62 in the direction of directional arrow Q. The translation of the arm member 61 outwardly from the sleeve 62 to the distal end, and the increase in the angle θ between the sleeve and the corresponding link 60, results in a lengthening of the link 231. The connection means 231 may be an elastic member that will elongate in response to the increasing separation of the distal end portions 63a of the arm members 61 relative to each other. Tabs 63 provided at the distal end of the arm member 61 may facilitate a user or technician gripping the arm member 61 to effect both angular and axial movement of the arm member 61. A number n of ports 64 are provided along the connection means 231 and connected or connected to the connection means 231, each port 64 being arranged to accommodate receiving a mating connector or cable. A channel 64a may be defined within each port 64, with the connection device received within the channel 64a to facilitate sliding the port 64 along the length of the connection device. A resilient or biasing member (e.g., a spring) may be disposed at a distal end of each arm member 61 to effect or cause the connection 231 to switch to the extended state as the arm members 61 generally slide through the sleeves 62.

As shown in fig. 3B, the patch panel device 120B is completely similar to the patch panel device 120A and includes all features of the patch panel device 120A except for the following differences. Unlike the connection means 231, which is generally shown as a straight line, a wiring means 66 is used which defines a generally arcuate shape.

Still another embodiment of a seam panel device will now be described in conjunction with fig. 4-6A. As shown in fig. 4, patch panel assembly 130 includes ports 77 operatively connected to one another by one or more resilient members or straps 71, 73 to facilitate pulling on straps 71, 73 under force as indicated by directional arrow F, correspondingly increasing the spacing or gap of ports 77.

As shown in fig. 5, the patch panel device 140 may include a plurality of ports 87 that are slidable with respect to one another along one or more rails 81, 83, the rails 81, 83 may be received within channels 88, and the channels 88 extend across the width of each port 87. Each port 87 includes a post 82 operatively connected to a resilient member 84 (e.g., a spring), the resilient member 84 extending the length of the connection device 140. The resilient member 84 is uniformly elongated under the force indicated by directional arrow F so that the ports 87 are equally spaced from one another. In this embodiment, the rails 81, 83 are coupled to the channel 88 and the post 82, the post 82 acts as a mounting for the port 87, and the resilient member 84 constitutes the connection means.

As shown in fig. 6 and 6A, patch panel device 150 may include a plurality of ports 97, with ports 97 including one or more links 99 receivable within slots or grooves 92, with a groove 92 defined within each port 97. The connecting rod 99 secures and stabilizes the ports 97 to each other. In this embodiment, the link 99 and the groove 92, which is the mounting portion for the port 97, constitute the connecting means. In operation, when ports 97 are moved toward each other, link 99 is received by slot 92; when the ports 97 move away from each other, the links 99 are withdrawn from the slots 92.

Another embodiment of a communication patch system will now be described in conjunction with fig. 7A and 7B. The communications patching system 200 includes a housing 2 and one or more patch panel devices 205 supported within the housing 2. The patch panel device 205 includes a flexible member 204 (e.g., a link made of a shape memory material such as nickel titanium). The flexible member 204 is received within the channel 64a of the port 64 such that the port 64 is movable along the length of the flexible member 204. The channel 64a of each port 64 may frictionally engage the flexible member 204 such that the port 64 responds to movement by a user or technician, but avoids unintended movement. The holder 201 fixes the flexible member 204 to the side face 2a of the housing 2. The bulbous region 207 of the flexible member 204 limits the complete withdrawal of the flexible member 204 from the housing 2. When the flexible member 204 is moved in the direction indicated by arrow I, the flexible member 204 bows outward from a generally straight line. The bowing of flexible member 204 results in a greater length along which ports 64 may slide with respect to the flexible member, thereby facilitating increased spacing of adjacent ports 64.

Another embodiment of a patch panel device will now be described with reference to fig. 8A and 8B. The patch panel device 300A includes a connection means switchable between a first state (fig. 8A) and a second state (fig. 8B). The patch panel device 300A includes a tray 302 and a plurality of arms 306, each arm 306 operatively connected to the tray 302 in a pivoting manner. Each arm 306 is operatively connected at a proximal end P of the arm 306 to a port 7 that includes a receptacle 5. A pin 305 may pivotally connect the distal end D of each arm 306 to the tray 302. The tray 302 may be slidably received within a housing (e.g., housing 2 of fig. 1A) such that the patch panel device 300A may be translated in a direction toward or away from the proximal end D of the housing 2. The linkage 310 may facilitate translation of the tray 302 with respect to the housing 2. The links 310 are pivotally connected to opposite sides 301 of the tray 302. The tray 302 is translated away from the housing 2 by a distance e that coincides with the length of the link 310 in order to minimize the interaction between the link 310 and the housing 2 when pivoting the link 310, which might otherwise hinder this action. Each linkage 310 includes a tab 312 to facilitate a user gripping the linkage and translating the tray 302 in either the proximal or distal direction. Proximally translating tray 302 away from housing 2 laterally spaces port 7 from plane P of housing 2. Proximally translating tray 302 a distance corresponding to the length e of links 310 causes each opposing link 310 to pivot outward, thereby increasing the distance H between the proximal ends of opposing links 310. The linkage 310 may include tabs 312 to facilitate a user's gripping or grasping of the patch panel device 300A. By increasing the distance H between the proximal ends of the links 310, the ports 7 may be spaced apart by a greater gap distance G. The ports 7 are repositioned with respect to each other such that the ports 7 are brought to the desired gap distance G by rotation of the arm 306 relative to the pin 305 in or against the direction indicated by arrow R. In this embodiment, the connection means may comprise at least the arm 306, the link 310, the pin 305 and the port 7, and optionally a tab 312.

Further embodiments of patch panel devices will now be described in connection with fig. 9A and 9B. patch panel device 300B includes a connection arrangement switchable between a first state (fig. 9A) and a second state (fig. 9B). in the first state, adjacent ports 7 are in full proximity to (e.g., contact) each other. in the second state, adjacent ports 7 have a gap distance G from each other. patch panel device 300B includes a tray 302 and a plurality of pivotable arms 306 operatively connected to tray 302. each arm 306 is operatively connected to a port 7 including a receptacle 5. arms 306 are radially separable in a fan-like manner such that the gap distance G between arms 306 is adjustable. joints 7B (e.g., simplex or duplex joints), may be disposed within receptacle 5. arms 306 are operatively connected to each other and to link 310 via links 308 connected to each other by pins 309. links 310 are unfolded by a force as indicated by directional arrows F, thereby increasing the distance H between links 310, β between links 308, and the links 310 may be folded back relative to each other by a force applied to the link 310 in the direction indicated by the direction arrows F, such that the link arrangement 300B, optionally causes the switch between adjacent arms 306 to be folded back to include a gap distance G, a first and a link 300B, thereby causing the switch between the case, the device 300B, the device, and the device 300B, including the device 300B.

The communication patching system 400 is described in conjunction with fig. 10-13. As shown in fig. 10, the communication patch system 400 includes a housing 2 that supports one or more patch panel devices 430. The patch panel device 430 can be translated (e.g., slid in and out of the housing 2) along or against the direction indicated by arrow Z. The patch panel device 430 can include a tray 431, and the tray 431 includes a rail 433 to facilitate securing and guiding the patch panel device 430. A plurality of additional members 432 are secured to the tray 431, each additional member 432 being configured to be operatively connected to a cable C.

Additional member 432 may include a second part 436 attached to first part 434 by a hinge 441, hinge 441 facilitating radial movement of first part 434 relative to second part 436 in the directions indicated by arrows M and N. Port 7 is removably secured to first member 434. In one embodiment, first component 434 includes a window 443 and port 7, and port 7 includes a tab 434 configured to accommodate engagement with window 433 to removably secure port 7 to first component 434.

In one embodiment, one of first component 434 and second component 436 may include ridges or bumps 438a that engage grooves or indentations 438b of the other of first component 434 and second component 436 such that first component 434 and second component 436 are positioned in a plurality of positions relative to each other corresponding to the number of pairs of bumps 438a and grooves 438 b.

As shown in fig. 12A and 12B, the additional member 432 includes a first part 434 and a second part 436, and is switchable between a first state in which the first part 434 and the second part 436 are fully aligned along a common axis J (fig. 12A) and a second state in which the first part 434 and the second part 436 are bent with respect to each other such that the first part and the second part determine an angle phi with respect to the axis J extending along the length of the second part 436. First component 434 and second component 436 may be disposed in contact with one another in a frictional relationship to prevent inadvertent repositioning of first component 434 and second component 436 with respect to one another.

In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 13, first component 434 and second component 436 are configured to engage one another in a grommet-like manner to prevent separation of first component 434 and second component 436. The first component 434 may include a flange 437a, the flange 437a configured to engage the aperture 437 of the second component 436 (e.g., the flange 437a completely follows and contacts the perimeter of the aperture 437) to prevent the first component 434 from separating from the second component 436.

As best shown in fig. 11, a plurality of attachment members 432 are secured to the tray 431. In one embodiment, the additional members 432 may be linearly aligned with respect to each other along the common axis I. Each additional member 432 includes a first part 434 and a second part 436 that are pivotally secured to one another. The second part 436 is fastened to the tray 431. In one embodiment, the second part 436 may include one or more holes 439 configured to accommodate a mating device 440 (e.g., a bolt, a pin, a nail, etc.) to facilitate securing the accessory member 432 to the tray 431. In one embodiment, the second member 436 is secured to the tray 431 by an adhesive.

As shown in fig. 10, a plurality of patch panel devices 430 may be arranged along the height H of the housing 2. In use, the communication patching system 400 facilitates access to a port 7 operatively connected to an add-on member 432, as shown in FIG. 10, the tray 431 translates away from the plane P of the housing 2 in the direction of arrow Z. Translating the tray 431 away from the plane P of the housing 2 separates the proximal end 401 of the patch panel devices 430 from the adjacent row of patch panel devices 430. Once the patch panel device 430 is translated a sufficient distance in the direction of arrow Z, the first part 434 of the one or more additional members 432 may be radially translated according to an axis parallel to axis I (see fig. 11), such as radially translated in the M direction toward the top T of the housing 2 or radially translated in the N direction toward the bottom B of the housing 2. Thus, the first part 434 of the additional member 432 may be spaced from an adjacently disposed additional member 432 of the same patch panel device 430, and from additional members 432 of adjacent rows of patch panel devices 430 at the height H of the housing 2.

Another embodiment of a patch panel device is described in conjunction with fig. 14A-14D. The patch panel device 440 may include a plurality of additional members 443 positioned adjacent to each other. Each additional member may include a movable member 446, with the movable member 446 rotating or pivoting relative to the movable component of the other additional member. The movable members 446 of adjacent members 443 can be operatively connected to each other to allow one of the movable members to rotate relative to the other. In one embodiment, the movable members 446 may be coupled to one another using a snap-fit connection that allows the movable members 446 to move radially relative to one another. At least two securing members 444 may be secured to opposite ends of the plurality of attachment members 433 and secure the attachment members 433 to the tray 441. In another embodiment, one fixed member 444 may be disposed between each movable member 443. Each movable member 446 is operatively connected to one or more cables C3, cable C3 being shown only in part. Movable member 446 may include a cable adapter or splice 449, which may include a front surface 449a, which may be operatively connected to strand C3, and a rear surface 449b, which may be operatively connected to another strand C3. The movable member 446 may include a socket 447 and the connector 449 may be removably secured to the socket 447 such that the connector 449 may be separated from the attachment member 443.

The movable member 446 may be disposed a distance from the edge 441a of the tray 441 to allow the movable member 446 to rotate relative to the tray. In one embodiment, tray 441 may include cutouts (not shown) in the movable member to facilitate the range of movement of movable member 446 relative to tray 441. The tray 441 may have an axis z extending along its length, an axis y extending along its height, and an axis x extending along its width. The fixing members 444 may be coaxially aligned on an axis z extending along the length of the tray 411. The plurality of securing members 444 may be arranged in a row extending along an axis X that extends along the width of the tray 441.

As shown in fig. 14C-14D, the fixed member 444 and one of the movable members 446 of the additional member 443 can be pivotally connected to each other at a pivot point such that the movable member 446 can move radially relative to the fixed member 444 to define an angle G therebetween. Specifically, the movable member 446 may be radially pivotable between the y-axis and the z-axis, and an angle G may be determined therebetween. When the movable member 446 is fixed to the tray 441, the movable member 446 may pivot in the counterclockwise direction T, but in the opposite direction, the clockwise direction pivot may be prevented by the tray 441. However, as described above, the cut-out of the tray 441 may reduce the interaction of the tray 441 with the movable member 446 to facilitate a greater range of movement of the movable member 446 with respect to the tray. In one embodiment, the angle G may be adjusted in the range of 0-135 degrees. In another embodiment, the angle G may be adjusted in the range of 0-90 degrees. As an example, in one embodiment, the movable members 446 are movable relative to each other such that the patch panel devices 440 switch between a first condition in which the front surfaces 445 of the movable members 446 are entirely in the same plane, adjacent members 446 are separated by a first distance or are in contact with each other, and a second condition in which the front surfaces 451 of respective adjacent members 446 are in different planes, one of the adjacent members 446 pivoting or rotating relative to the other adjacent member 446 according to the angle G, wherein the other adjacent member 446 may or may not be in the same position in the first condition.

As described with respect to the patch system 400, a plurality of patch panel devices 440 may also be supported within the housing 2 and may be translated into and out of the housing 2 along the z-axis direction. Once spaced from the housing 2, the movable member 446 may pivot about the fixed member 444, thereby spacing the faces 449a, 449B of the sub 449 from any adjacent sub 449, so that the cable C3 may be more easily accessed and easily grasped by a user to withdraw the cable C from the cable adaptor or sub 449 of the movable member 446 (as shown in fig. 14B).

A system for managing cables (e.g., cable C) is described in conjunction with fig. 15A and 15B. The cable management system 500 includes any suitable patch panel devices including, but not limited to, patch panel devices 100, 120A, 120B, 130, 140, 150, 205, 300A, 300B, 430, and 440. In one embodiment, as shown in fig. 15A and 15B, the cable management system 500 includes a patch panel device 300B. The cable management system 500 includes a cable tensioner 510 that is switchable between a first state (fig. 15A) and a second state. The cable tensioner 510 contracts or bends to a lesser extent in the second state than in the first state (fig. 15B). The cable tensioner 510 is adapted such that: the cable tensioner may be provided in any shape in use, with any portion of the cable C being extended to the surface of the curved tensioner 510 having at least one minimum radius of curvature, thereby avoiding damage to the cable and/or maintaining the light transmission energy through the cable within an acceptable range. As an example, cable C may be attached to the outer surface 540 of tensioner 510 or the inner surface of tensioner 510 arranged in a deformable U-shaped jacket groove.

As described with respect to patch panel devices 110, 120A, 120B, 130, 140, 150, 200, 300A, 300B, 430, and 440, the patch panel devices may be translated away from plane P of housing 2. When the patch panel device is translated away from the plane P of the housing 2, the first length Ca of the cable C will also move accordingly. It is desirable to control and manage the movement of the cable C so that when the cable C is bent, the cable C has at least one minimum bend radius, and also to prevent the cable C, and in particular the first length portion Ca, from interfering with the translation of the patch panel device with respect to the housing 2.

As shown in fig. 15A and 15B, a first length Ca of cable C may be operably coupled to distal end 7a of port 7 and a second length Cb of cable C2 may be operably coupled to proximal end 7B of port 7. The housing 2 may comprise cable guides and supports. In one embodiment, the second length portion Cb of the cable C2 is supported and guided by the guide rails 515, 517, the guide rails 515, 517 providing guidance and support for the cable C2. A second length Cb of cable C2 connected to proximal end 7b of port 7 may be supported by guide 517 and extend to an outer surface 540 of cable tensioner 510 toward guide 515, guide 517 defining a plane parallel to the plane of tray 302. Guide rails 517 may guide the second set of cables Cb to guide rails 517 in the direction of cable tensioner 510, possibly entirely or partially through the length L of housing 2. In another embodiment, the second length portion Cb of the cable C2 is not operably coupled to the cable tensioner 510.

The cable tensioner 510 includes a longitudinally extending bendable member 514. The bendable member 514 may be formed from a material having shape memory properties (e.g., the bendable member 514 may be biased into a bent shape). The bendable members 514 may be constructed of any suitable material, including: such as nylon polymer, or nickel, titanium shape memory material.

In one embodiment, the bendable member 514 may be made of a material having shape memory properties (e.g., nickel, titanium). The bendable member 514 may be biased to a first state having a pre-set curvature or curved shape (fig. 15A). The bendable member 514 is configured to be connected to cables C and C2. In one embodiment, the bendable member 514 includes a protrusion 512, the protrusion 512 including a head 532 and a neck 522. The neck 522 may be configured to receive the cables C and C2 extending therethrough and provide support for the cables C and C2 to be positioned between the head 532 and the bendable member 514. The head 532 may frictionally engage the cable 514 to prevent the cables C and C2 from separating from the bendable member 514. The ends 507, 509 of the cable tensioner 510 are generally opposite. One end 507 is secured to the tray 302 of the patch panel device 300B and the other end 509 is secured to the distal end of the housing 2 or another tray 502 secured to the back of the housing 2, the tray 502 being generally coplanar with the tray 302.

In use, translating the patch panel device 300B away from the face 2 of the housing 2 causes the distance of the opposing ends 507, 509 of the bendable member to switch from the distance K1 to the distance K2, where K2 is greater than K1. Movement of the opposing ends 507, 509 relative to one another causes the flex member 514 to bend or have an arcuate outward shape. Conversely, a separation movement of the opposing ends 507, 509 will straighten the bendable member 514. Thus, the cable 509 is moved under the control of the bendable member 514, thereby preventing the radius of curvature of the bent cable C from being less than the minimum radius of curvature, and the cable potentially interfering with the movement of the tray 302.

Another embodiment of a cable tensioner is described in conjunction with fig. 16. The cable tensioner 600 includes a guide groove 604, a first tensioning member 605 and a second tensioning member 606. The first and second tensioning members 605, 606 pivot with respect to each other in a scissor-like relationship. The tensioner 600 may be attached to a horizontally aligned tray of the housing 2, such as the tray described above with respect to other embodiments, such that the guide groove 604 is fixed in position with respect to the distal portion of the housing 2 (e.g., tray 302, fig. 15A-15B) and the proximal end of the cable tensioner 600 is fixed to the tray of the patch panel (e.g., tray 302). The first and second tensioning members 605, 606 may be joined by a pivot point 601. The proximal ends of the first and second tensioning members 605, 606 may be operably connected to a tray (e.g., the tray 302 of a patch panel). The cable C4 may be operably coupled to the first cable member 605 and the second cable member 606 and guided around the guide groove 604 having a predetermined radius of curvature. When the tray of the patch panel (e.g., tray 502) translates, the orientation of the guide groove 604 relative to the tray remains fixed and the angle between the cable tensioning members 605, 605 changes, and the cable tensioner 600 takes up slack in the cable C as the tray moves into the housing 2 by rotating the members 605, 605 relative to each other about the pivot point 601, and releases the slack in the cable C as the tray moves out of the housing 2 by rotating the members 605, 606 away from each other about the pivot point 601.

Any of the embodiments described herein, it being understood that any suitable linker may be used. For example, LC type linkers may be used. However, LC connectors are only one example of small connectors that can be used. Different sized connectors, whether larger or smaller, may be used. As described above, the splice may be configured to receive one or more cables (e.g., simplex or duplex). The detailed fittings shown and described herein are for illustration purposes only. Different arrangements and/or different sizes of fittings may be employed without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention.

Although the invention herein has been described with reference to particular embodiments, it is to be understood that these embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles and applications of the present invention. It should be understood that the drawings are not to scale unless otherwise indicated herein. It is therefore to be understood that numerous modifications may be made to the illustrative embodiments and that other arrangements may be devised without departing from the spirit and scope of the appended claims.

Claims (7)

1. A communication patch panel device, comprising:

a plurality of add-on members, each of the add-on members having a first end opposite a second end, and including a securing feature spaced from the first end in a direction configured to fixedly connect the add-on member to the second end of the tray, and a second member having a tab with a front surface at the first end,

wherein when said additional members are fixedly attached to said tray, each by a securing component thereof, are linearly disposed with respect to each other along a common axis, each of said second members individually having any one of a plurality of positions relative to another of said second members such that said communication patch panel device has a first condition in which said front surfaces are in a common plane and a second condition in which said front surfaces are in different planes.

2. The communication patch panel device of claim 1, wherein the tab is separate from the second member.

3. The communication patch panel device of claim 1, wherein the header is configured to releasably connect to a first cable on the front surface.

4. The communication patch panel device of claim 1, wherein the header further comprises a rear surface configured to releasably connect to a second cable.

5. The communication patch panel device of claim 1, wherein each of the second members is individually rotatable to any of a plurality of positions relative to another of the second members.

6. The communication patch panel device of claim 1, further comprising:

the tray, wherein the tray defines a surface, wherein each of the second members defines an angle with the surface of the tray that is adjustable when the additional members are fixedly attached to the tray by their respective securing features.

7. The communication patch panel device of claim 5, wherein the angle is adjustable between 0 and 135 degrees.