CN108784019B

CN108784019B - Door lock indicator

Info

Publication number: CN108784019B
Application number: CN201710294795.5A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 王京; 伍文勇
Original assignee: Commscope Technologies LLC
Current assignee: Commscope Technologies LLC
Priority date: 2017-04-28
Filing date: 2017-04-28
Publication date: 2022-12-06
Anticipated expiration: 2037-04-28
Also published as: CN108784019A

Abstract

Systems for improved cable management are disclosed in various exemplary embodiments. The disclosed embodiments describe exemplary structures for supporting cables, such as telecommunication and fiber optic cables, in cable storage cabinets. The disclosed embodiments also describe a door for a cable storage cabinet. An exemplary door includes a hinge control and handle system that allows the door to open along either side allowing opening in either path from a single handle. The disclosed embodiments also describe an indicator system for informing a user when a door of a cable storage cabinet is in a closed position or an open position. Each of these embodiments improves the utility and safety of cable management, particularly in cable storage cabinets.

Description

Door lock indicator

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates generally to cable management and, more particularly, to cable management with cable storage cabinets.

Background

Cables, such as fiber optic telecommunication cables, are typically stored in storage cabinets. When a user enters these cabinets to install or repair the cable, adjustments to the equipment for storage are often required. In many cases, the user cannot directly obtain different storage management devices to accommodate multiple situations, such as cable counts or sizes, and therefore the user must return to a remote office, wasting valuable time. There is thus a need to develop improvements in cable management that can be adjusted in the field.

These cabinets are usually closed by very heavy doors, which can cause injury if the doors are not closed properly. There is thus a need to develop improvements in line management that can indicate to a user that a cabinet door is properly closed when the cabinet door is properly closed.

These cabinets are typically located in very confined environments and have an interior cavity that is very difficult to access. There is thus a need to develop improvements in cable management cabinets that can improve accessibility in confined environments and also provide improved accessibility to difficult to access interior cavities.

Disclosure of Invention

Systems for improved cable management are disclosed in various exemplary embodiments. The disclosed embodiments describe exemplary structures for supporting cables, such as telecommunication and fiber optic cables, in cable storage cabinets. The disclosed embodiments also describe a door for a storage cabinet. An exemplary door includes a hinge control and handle system that allows the door to open along either side allowing opening in either path from a single handle. Exemplary embodiments also describe an indicator system for informing a user when a door of a cable storage cabinet is in a closed position or an open position. Each of these embodiments improves the utility and security of cable management, particularly in cable storage cabinets.

In one aspect, the present invention relates to an indicator that displays whether a door is in an open or closed state, including an indicator stimulus that indicates closing of the door when the door is closed, and a cover that blocks the indicator stimulus to indicate opening of the door when the door is open. The cover is operated by the condition (condition) that the door is in an open or closed state.

In another aspect, the present invention is directed to an indicator system that displays whether a door is in an open or closed state, including a ram (ram) secured to the door and including a contact end, including an indicator actuation that indicates closing of the door when the door is closed, and a cover that blocks the indicator actuation to indicate opening of the door when the door is open. The cover is operated by a contact end of the ram.

In another aspect, the present invention relates to a method for displaying whether a door is in an open or closed state. The method includes deflecting the cover away from the indicator stimulus by engaging the cover with a ram on the door when the door is closed and blocking the indicator stimulus with the cover by disengaging the cover from the ram when the door is open.

In another aspect, the present disclosure is directed to a cabinet that includes a frame including a frame member. The frame member includes a first extension and a second extension. The second extension is movable between first and second states. The first and second extensions overlap in the first state and do not overlap in the second state. The cabinet also includes a door hingedly secured to the frame, wherein a movable plunger is supported on the door. The movable plunger engages the second extension in the second state and does not engage the second extension in the first state.

In another aspect, the present invention is directed to a system for opening a door that includes a first side edge and an opposite second side edge. The system includes a handle operable in a first direction to open the door only along a first side edge or operable in a second direction to open the door only along a second side edge. The system also includes a first hinge mechanism operatively connected to the handle to releasably secure the door along the first side edge. The system also includes a second hinge mechanism operatively connected to the handle to releasably secure the door along the second side edge.

In another aspect, the invention relates to a method of opening a door along a first side edge or a second side edge using a single handle. The method includes rotating the handle in a first direction to release a first side edge of the door from a secured condition while maintaining a second side edge of the door in a secured condition. The method alternatively includes rotating the handle in a second direction to release the second side edge of the door from the secured condition while maintaining the first side edge of the door in the secured condition.

In another aspect, the present invention is directed to a cable management device comprising a cable carrier extending along an axis between a free end and a mounting end, at least one divider selectively supported by the cable carrier, and a repositioning system for repositioning the at least one divider to a plurality of positions along the axis between the free end and the mounting end of the cable carrier.

In another aspect, the present invention is directed to a cable management device comprising a spool extending along an axis between a free end and a mounting end, at least one divider plate repositionably supported by the spool, and a repositioning system for repositioning the at least one divider plate along the axis to a plurality of positions between the free end and the mounting end of the spool. The invention optionally defines a base having at least one mounting receptacle for receiving at least one of the cable management devices.

In another aspect, the present invention is directed to a cable management system including a base including a mounting receptacle, a carrier including a mounting end and a free end, the mounting end including a mounting assembly removably mounted to the base mounting receptacle, and at least one selectable partition system supported by the carrier, the selectable partition system including at least one partition selectively supported at a plurality of locations between the mounting end and the free end.

In another aspect, the present invention is directed to a method for managing cables including mounting a cable carrier to a base, the cable carrier including a repositionable cable management system and at least one standoff, positioning the at least one standoff to a first position on the repositionable cable management system, and receiving at least a length of cable on the cable carrier.

Drawings

Fig. 1 is a front perspective view of an example cable management system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Fig. 2 is a rear view of the cable management system shown in fig. 1.

Fig. 3 is a separated and enlarged view of the window Y in fig. 2.

Fig. 4 is a separated and enlarged view of the window Z in fig. 2.

Fig. 5 is a perspective view of the first cable support member shown in fig. 1.

Fig. 6 is a right side view of the first cable support member shown in fig. 5, wherein the left side is a mirror image.

Fig. 7 is a top view of the first cable support member shown in fig. 5, wherein the bottom view is a mirror image.

Fig. 8 is a view of the mounting end of the first cable support member shown in fig. 5.

Fig. 9 is a separated perspective view of one half of the first cable support member shown in fig. 5.

Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the first cable support member half shown in fig. 9, viewed along line L.

Fig. 11 is a perspective view of the spacer shown in fig. 5, shown separated from the first cable support.

Fig. 12 is a perspective view of a top half of another example cable support, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

Fig. 13 is a perspective view of the second cable support member shown in fig. 1.

Fig. 14 is a right side view of the second cable support member shown in fig. 13, with the left side being a mirror image.

Fig. 15 is a perspective view of the spacer shown in fig. 13, shown separated from the second cable support member.

Fig. 16 is an upper perspective view of a half of another example cable support according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

Fig. 17 is a perspective view of the divider shown in fig. 16 shown separated from the cable support.

Fig. 18 is an upper perspective view of a half of another example cable support according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

Fig. 19 is a top view of the cable support shown in fig. 18.

Fig. 20 is a sectional view of the cable support shown in fig. 18, viewed along the line L1.

Fig. 21 is a perspective view of the divider shown in fig. 18 shown separated from the cable support.

Fig. 22 is a front view of an exemplary door and handle according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 23 is a front perspective view of the handle shown in FIG. 22 shown separated from the door.

Fig. 24 is a rear view of the door and handle system shown in fig. 22.

Fig. 25 is an enlarged view of the window A1 in fig. 24.

Fig. 26 is an enlarged view of the window A3 in fig. 24.

Fig. 27 is an enlarged view of the window A2 in fig. 24.

Fig. 28 is an isolated rear view of the handle system shown in fig. 23-24, with the handle shown rotated in a first direction.

Fig. 29 is an isolated rear view of the handle system shown in fig. 23-24, with the handle shown rotated in a second direction.

Fig. 30 is an exploded and partial perspective view of the handle system shown in fig. 23-24.

Fig. 30A is a rear perspective view of another handle assembly according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, which operates in a substantially similar manner to the handle assembly shown in fig. 22-30.

Fig. 30B is a rear view of the handle system shown in fig. 30A.

Fig. 30C is a rear perspective view of the handle system shown in fig. 30A, without the cam assembly shown.

Fig. 30D is a rear perspective view of the handle separated from the handle assembly shown in fig. 30A-30C.

Fig. 31 is a perspective view of an exemplary indicator system, shown in a closed position, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

Fig. 32 is a cross-sectional view of the indicator system shown in fig. 31, viewed along line L2.

FIG. 33 is a perspective view of the indicator system shown in FIG. 31, shown in an open position.

Fig. 34 is a cross-sectional view of the indicator system shown in fig. 33, viewed along line L3.

Fig. 35 is a perspective view of a completed storage cabinet including the cable management system shown in fig. 1-21, the door and handle shown in fig. 22-30, and the indicator system shown in fig. 31-34.

Detailed Description

Cable support system

A novel system for cable support is disclosed. In use, the cable support system can be adjusted to accommodate and organize a plurality of different cables and cables having different widths. If changes are required due to changes in size or number, the user can adjust the arrangement of the cable support system in the field without having to obtain a different size or arrangement of structures. Thus, the cable support system provides greater convenience and effectiveness to the user.

An example cable support system includes a support structure. The support structure further comprises a mounting receptacle system to easily attach or detach at least one cable carrier. An exemplary cable support structure 10 is shown in fig. 1-2 as a cabinet frame 12. An exemplary mounting receiver system 14 is shown in fig. 2-4 as having at least one capture aperture 16 extending through the frame 12. The illustrated mounting receiver system 14 preferably includes a pair of identical gripping apertures 16. The illustrated mounting receptacle system 14 further includes at least one insertion aperture 18 extending through the frame 12 at a location between the pair of capture apertures 16.

The example cable support system also includes at least one cable support that may be removably secured to the base structure. The removably fastened cable support may be mounted to the aforementioned mounting receiver system by a mounting mechanism. The mounting mechanism is preferably a unitary and integral structure with the cable support. The cable support provides a structure for holding cables stored in the cable management system. The cable support also includes an adjustment mechanism that allows a user to selectively adjust the utility and structure in response to different size cables or in response to a need for separating multiple cables. The adjustment mechanism (or alternative separation system) may be a single system that can adjust (or reposition) itself along or relative to the cable support. The adjustment mechanism may also be an insertable and removable spacer that forms a different channel or passageway along or relative to the cable support. By allowing selective adjustment (or repositioning) of the cable support, a user can select changes in the field without necessarily requiring an entirely new device.

An exemplary cable support is shown in fig. 1 and 5-10 as a first spool 100 that is removably secured to the cabinet frame 12 by the aforementioned mounting receptacle system and supports a plurality of cables 50 that may be suspended from the spool as shown. The illustrated spool 100 may be comprised of two parts, preferably two halves, more preferably two identical halves, shown as a first half a and a second half B, joined along a longitudinal axis X. The illustrated spool 100 includes a carrier body 102 defined between a proximal mounting end 104 and a distal free end 106. The carrier body 102 may have any shape or size that allows for support for at least one cable. The illustrated proximal mounting end 104 includes a proximal retaining wall 126, with the retaining wall 126 engaging a surface of the cabinet frame 12 in use. The illustrated distal free end 106 includes a distal stop wall 124, and in use a stop wall 126 prevents any supported cable from falling off the distal end of the carrier body 102.

As particularly shown in fig. 2-4 and 6-8, the carrier body 102 is shown removably secured to the aforementioned mounting receiver system on the frame 12 by a mounting system 115. The illustrated carrier body 102 shows an exemplary mounting system 115 that includes at least one bracket 118. As shown, the exemplary mounting system 115 may include a pair of brackets 118. The illustrated bracket 118 has an elbow, e.g., an L-shaped geometry extending proximally away from the proximal surface of the proximal baffle 126. The geometry of the elbow shaped bracket 118 forms a receiver space 122 between the proximal baffle 126 and the bracket. In operation, as shown for example in fig. 2-4, the bracket 118 is inserted through the gripping aperture 14 in the space 12 such that a portion of the body of the frame fits in the receiver space 122. When the body of the frame 12 is in the receiver space 122, it engages between the tray 118 and the proximal flap 126, providing resistance against the tray falling out of the grip hole 14.

The example mounting system 115 may also include a latch to operate simultaneously with or independently of the carriage(s) 118. The exemplary latch shown includes a handle 112 that pivots relative to a proximal flap 126 and carrier body 102. The handle 112 may be a single piece or integral with the spool 100. The handle 112 pivots in the channel 114, and the channel 114 cuts out from the spool 100 and from the carrier body 102 across the proximal stop 126. The illustrated handle 112 may have an elbow shape and have a neck (see fig. 8) that is pivotally attached to and pivots in a section of the channel 114 cut from the proximal flap 126. The handle 112 may also have a button portion (see fig. 5 and 7) that pivots in a portion of the channel 114 cut out of the carrier body 102. When the user applies a pressing force on the button portion of the handle 112, the handle pivots away from the carrier body 102 and into the channel 114.

The illustrated pivot latch also includes an insert plug 116 that projects in a proximal direction away from proximal baffle 126. An insert plug 116 is shown positioned near the intersection of the button portion and the neck of the handle 112. As shown particularly in fig. 6-7, when handle 112 is in a relaxed, and non-pivoted state, insertion plug 116 extends through passage 114 and proximally beyond proximal baffle 126. In the relaxed condition, if the mounted spool 100 is tilted downward and away from the frame 12, the insert plug 116 prevents the spool from disengaging from the frame by engaging the frame at the edge of the channel 114. When the button portion of handle 112 is in the depressed state, the handle pivots into passage 114, causing plug 116 to pass through and retract distally away from passage away from proximal flap 126. When plug 116 is pivotally retracted through passage 114, the plug will not engage frame 14 if spool 100 is tilted away from the frame. Preferably, insert plug 116 is a single piece or integral with handle 112.

The illustrated carrier body 102 includes an exemplary adjustment mechanism, as described above. The illustrated adjustment structure includes a plurality of slots 108 positioned separately along the carrier body 102 between the proximal mounting end 104 and the distal free end 106. Each slot 108 may be a hole providing access to the interior of the carrier body 102. Each slot 108 may be separated from adjacent slots by a uniform or non-uniform distance from each other.

The adjustment mechanism may also include a plurality of receivers 128, as shown in fig. 9 and 10, positioned in the carrier body 102 and operably aligned with the slots 108. Preferably, each slot 108 is aligned with one of the receivers 128. The illustrated receiver 128 may include a locking mechanism 130 that pivots or deflects relative to the receiver 128. The illustrated locking mechanism 130 may include a protruding insert having a beveled surface. The user deflects the locking mechanism 130 to provide access to the receiver 128.

The illustrated adjustment mechanism includes a plurality of spacers 110 (or "dividers"). The illustrated spacer 110 may be a flat plate that is removably inserted into the slot 108 and secured into the receiver 128. The adjustment structure may be used with a variety of configurations, such as only one spacer 110 being inserted into one slot 108 and receiver 128, or a plurality of spacers being inserted into a plurality of slots and receivers 128. Further, depending on the size or number of cable(s) to be carried on the carrier body 102, the position of a particular spacer 110 may be adjusted or moved between different slots 108 and receivers 128 to change the configuration of the adjustment mechanism.

As particularly shown in fig. 11, the example spacer 110 may include a locking hole 134, which may be a recess or hole in the spacer. The locking hole 134 is positioned to receive a protruding insert of the locking mechanism 130 when the spacer 110 is inserted through the slot 108 and into the receiver 128. When inserted into the receiver 128, the divider 110 engages the ramp of the protruding insert and deflects the locking mechanism 130. Then, once the divider 110 has been inserted a sufficient distance, the locking hole 134 receives a protruding insert of the locking mechanism 130. When the locking mechanism 130 is secured in the locking hole 134, the spacer 110 is prevented from being removed from the receiver 128 and the slot 108. To remove the divider 110 from the receiver 128 and slot 108, the user applies a biasing force to the locking mechanism 130 away and away from the locking aperture 134.

The halves a and B shown are preferably identical. Each half includes a proximal flap 126, a distal flap 124, the carrier body 102, the mounting system 115, the slot 108, and a receiver 128.

In use, the spool 100 may be secured to the frame 12 by mounting the two spool halves a and B to the mounting receiver system 14 by means of a mounting system 115, as shown, for example, in fig. 1-4. The two bobbin halves a and B are oppositely oriented and aligned with each other to form a complete bobbin-like geometry, as shown, for example, in fig. 5. The two spool halves a and B may be disengaged from the frame 100 by removing the mounting system(s) 115 from the mounting receiver system 14, as described above.

The cable management system may alternatively operate with only one of the two halves A, B depicted in spool 100. For example, half a may be sufficiently mounted to frame 12 and support the cables without the illustrated half B.

Fig. 12 shows one half of another exemplary spool 150. The illustrated spool 150 includes each of the elements described with respect to the spool 100 in fig. 1-11. In this regard, the illustrated spool 150 is substantially identical to the spool 100. The spool 150 includes additional features that may also be incorporated into the spool 100 and used with the spool 100. For example, the illustrated spool 150 includes an internal storage feature 152 to store the spacer 154 in the receptacle when not in use. The internal storage feature 152 is shown in the carrier body and may be comprised of a pair of parallel fingers supporting a spacer 154. The illustrated spool 150 also includes a pair of opposing shoulders 156, the pair of shoulders 156 being grasped by a user when mounting the spool to the frame 12. The illustrated shoulder 156 may be a recess in the carrier body.

Fig. 13-15 illustrate the exemplary spool 200 shown in fig. 1 that may be mounted to the frame 12 in the same manner as previously described to support at least one cable 50, the cable 50 being suspendable from the spool as shown. The illustrated bobbin 200 is comprised of a pair of halves C and D. Preferably, the halves C and D are identical. The illustrated spool 200 includes a proximal stop 204, a distal stop 202, and a mounting system, each of which operate in a similar manner to the previous embodiments. Preferably, the proximal and

distal baffles

204, 202 and mounting system of the spool 200 are the same as in the previous embodiments.

The illustrated spool 200 also includes an adjustment system that allows a user to adjust the utility and structure in response to different sized cables or in response to a need for separating multiple cables. The illustrated adjustment system includes a guide 208 extending between the distal baffle 202 and the proximal baffle 204. Each half C and D assembled into a complete bobbin 200 includes the same and oppositely positioned guides 208 such that the bobbin includes a pair of first guides. The guide 208 shown may be recessed into the carrier body.

The illustrated adjustment system also includes a track 210 positioned between the pair of opposing guide portions 208 on the spool 200. Preferably, the adjustment system includes a pair of tracks 210, e.g., the track shown and the track (not shown) on the opposite side of the spool, oppositely positioned on the spool 200, both located between the pair of guides 208. For example, as shown, the pair of guides 208 may be positioned at 360 ° and 180 ° positions, and the pair of tracks 210 may be positioned at 90 ° and 270 ° positions. Each track 210 is formed of two halves, with each half C and D of the spool 200 comprising one half of the track. When the two halves of the bobbin 200 are aligned, as shown in fig. 13, a complete track 210 is formed.

The illustrated adjustment system also includes a divider 206 that adjusts to define an infinite position along the guide(s) 208 and track 210. The divider 206 may be formed from two

identical halves

206c, 206d that are combined about the carrier body of the bobbin 200. Each half 206c, 206d of the divider 206 includes a first follower 212 that adjusts to an infinite position in the guide 208. Each half 206c, 206b also includes a pair of second followers 214 that adjust an infinite position in track 210. When the divider 206 is assembled, as shown in fig. 14, the adjacent second followers 214 of the divider halves 206c, 206d form a combined second follower that operably fits in the track 210.

Each

divider half

206c, 206d may adjust its position in the guide 208 and track 210 independently of one another. Thus, the cable management system may alternatively operate with only one of the two halves C, D described in spool 200. For example, half C may be sufficiently mounted to frame 12, adjusting divider half 206C, and supporting cables without the illustrated half D and divider half 206D.

Fig. 16 shows one half of another exemplary spool 230. The illustrated spool 230 has a substantially similar structure and mechanical operation as the previously described spool (e.g., spool 200). For example, the illustrated spool 230 includes a guide 232 and track that are positioned and function in a similar manner as the previously described

tracks

208 and 210. The illustrated guide 232 includes a ratchet surface defining a plurality of peaks and valleys extending between the mounting end and the free end.

Fig. 16-17 show the half of another divider 234, which operates in a similar manner to divider 206c previously described. For example, the illustrated divider 234 includes a second follower that slides along a track, as previously described for the second follower 214 in track 210. The illustrated spacer 234 also includes a first follower 236 that includes a plurality of teeth 238 to engage the ratchet surface of the illustrated guide 232. In use, the illustrated spacer 234 can be moved to a plurality of different positions along the guide 232 by disengaging a plurality of teeth 238 from peaks and valleys of the ratchet surface. For example, a user may grasp an upper portion of the spacer 234 and pull it away from the guide 232 such that the flexing elements 240 (shown as curved or hooked channels) separate or widen to allow the teeth 238 on the follower 236 to disengage from the guide. Then, the plurality of teeth 238 reengage at the peaks and valleys at another location along the guides 232 by releasing the spacers 234 and allowing the flexing element 240 to return itself to the resting condition.

Fig. 18-21 illustrate one half of another exemplary spool 250. Similar to the previous embodiments, the illustrated spool 250 includes a carrier body extending between a distal baffle 252 and a proximal baffle 254. The illustrated spool 250 also includes a mounting mechanism similar in structure and operation to the previously described embodiments. The illustrated spool 250 also includes opposing shoulders 260, similar to the opposing shoulders 156 described previously. The illustrated spool 250 also has an adjustment structure that includes an opposing track 268 that is similar in structure and operation to the track 210 previously described. The adjustment mechanism of the illustrated spool 250 includes a guide portion 256 that includes a plurality of stops 262 positioned between the distal end 252 and the proximal end 254. The stops 262 may be evenly or unevenly spaced relative to each other. The adjustment mechanism also includes a divider 258 that adjusts the position between a plurality of stops 262. The spacer 258 adjusts the position and the extended guide 256 is fixed to one of the stoppers 262.

The divider 258 includes a first follower that adjusts along the guide 256. The first follower has a substantially similar structure to the first follower 212 described in the previous embodiments, but further includes a receiver 266, such as a hole or cup. The divider 258 also includes a pair of opposed second followers 214 that are similar in structure and function to the second followers 214 described in the previous embodiments. These opposing second followers 214 are adjusted in and along the track 268, similar to the second followers 214 and the track 210 described in the previous embodiments.

Each stop 262 may include an insert 264, for example, a protrusion or bump that extends upwardly away from the guide 256. When the divider is adjusted into position over a particular stop 262, the insert 264 enters the receptacle 266 of the first follower of the divider 258. When the insert 264 is positioned in the receptacle 266, the divider 258 is prevented from moving freely in the guide 256 by natural resistance. The insert 264 may be removed from the receiver 266 by applying an upward pulling force to the divider 258 away from the guide 256. The divider 258 can then be adjusted to different positions over different stops 262. More than one divider 258 may be operable along the guide 256 to provide multiple sections for cable storage.

Hinge control system

Another solution disclosed includes a hinge control system that allows a door to be opened along different edges by rotation of a single handle. For example, a door to the cabinet has hinges on opposite edges, which can be swung open along a first edge or a second edge by simply operating a single handle in a particular manner. The door may be used for a variety of functions, such as cable storage in conjunction with the cable storage cabinet of fig. 1-19.

Fig. 22-30 illustrate an exemplary hinge control system 300. The illustrated hinge control system 300 includes a handle assembly 304 that is centrally located between the right, left, top, and bottom edges of the door 302. Fig. 20 particularly shows the outwardly facing front side of the handle assembly 304. The illustrated outwardly facing portion of the handle assembly 304 includes a handle 301 operable in a housing 303. The illustrated handle 301 may have raised sidewalls that may be grasped by a user. When the handle 301 is grasped by the user, the handle can be rotated in any direction (left or right) in the housing 303.

In particular, fig. 24-27 show the inward facing side of the hinge control system 300. The illustrated hinge control system 300 includes a hinge mechanism 306 positioned relative to the top and bottom edges of the door 302. The top and bottom hinge mechanisms 306 shown are identical. Each of the top and bottom illustrated hinge mechanisms 306 includes a pair of

fasteners

312a, 312b and biasing

elements

314a, 314b operatively positioned between a base 318 and the outer periphery of the door 302. The illustrated hinge mechanism 306 preferably includes a pair of fasteners 312a at the top and bottom of the first side, a pair of fasteners 312b at the top and bottom of the second side, a pair of biasing elements 314a at the top and bottom of the first side, and a pair of biasing elements 314b at the top and bottom of the right side. The illustrated

fasteners

312a, 312b may be pins having a mounting end and a distal free end extending out of the door 302 for removable connection to a door frame (not shown) into which the door is hingedly connected.

The illustrated

deflecting elements

314a, 314b may be springs, such as coil springs, that engage the stop 318. The baffle 318 may be a shelf or stop that is rigidly secured to the door 302 and extends within the door 302. As shown, the

fasteners

312a, 312b extend through and are mechanically coupled to the

biasing elements

314a, 314b. The

fasteners

312a, 312b are preferably mechanically coupled to the

biasing elements

314a, 314b at locations where the biasing elements are distal from the baffle 318, in a manner understood by those skilled in the art, such that the fasteners are directed laterally of the baffle and will exert a compressive force on the biasing elements. Conversely, the biasing

elements

314a, 314b apply a resistive force against the base 318 and the

fasteners

312a, 312b.

The illustrated hinge control system 300 also includes a plurality of

tethers

308a, 308b extending between the handle assembly 304 and the top and bottom hinge mechanisms 306. As the

tethers

308a, 308b are pulled toward the handle assembly 304, the

respective fasteners

312a and 312b are pulled and the

biasing elements

314a, 314b are compressed accordingly. The illustrated

tethers

308a, 308b may be elongated and rigid rods or wires that are secured to the handle assembly 304, for example, by mounting elements 316, such as mounting plates and fasteners. The distal ends of the

tethers

308a, 308b are secured to the

fasteners

312a, 312b of the illustrated hinge mechanism 306, such as by mounting elements 316, the mounting elements 316 being similar to the mounting elements used to mount the tethers to the handle assembly 304.

The illustrated handle assembly 304 includes a handle switch 332 mechanically connected to the handle 301 on the forward facing side of the assembly. The handle switch 332 may be mechanically fastened to the handle 301 by a fastener 334, such as a bolt or screw. In use, rotating the handle 301 in either direction causes equal and identical rotation of the handle switch 332 relative to the handle assembly 304.

The handle assembly 332 also includes a pair of

followers

330a, 330b, which may be pins or inserts, rigidly positioned on either side of the fastener 334. As shown, one follower 330a may be positioned toward a first side of the door 302 and the other follower 330b may be positioned toward a second side of the door.

The illustrated handle assembly 304 includes a pair of

cam assemblies

320a, 320b positioned on either side of a handle switch 332. The

cam assemblies

320a, 320b operate in conjunction with the handle switch 332 to pull the two pairs of

tethers

308a, 308b toward each other to retract the

respective fasteners

312a, 312b from the door frame (not shown).

The illustrated

cam assemblies

320a, 320b each include an assembly of three arms hingedly secured to one another by

fasteners

326a, 326b, such as pins. The

first arm

322a, 322b in the

cam assembly

320a, 320b includes a guide (or channel) 328a, 328b that receives a

follower

330a, 330b on a handle switch 332. The illustrated guides 328a, 328b may be elongated and curvilinear, with the arcs of the curve being oriented the same as and opposite to each other. In use, as the handle switch 332 is rotated, the

followers

330a, 330b are caused to travel to different positions in the

guides

328a, 328b.

The illustrated

cam assemblies

320a, 320b can also have a pair of

pivot arms

324a, 324b that pivot toward and away from each other similar to the mechanical structure of the pawl. Each of the pair of

pivot arms

324a, 324b has a hinge mounting end mounted to a

fastener

326a, 326 b. The

pivot arms

324a, 324b also have cable mounting ends that are secured to

tethers

308a, 308b by the aforementioned mounting members 316. When actuated by the

first arms

322a, 322b, the tether mounting ends of the

pivot arms

324a, 324b pivot or clamp toward each other similar to a jaw. Pivoting the

pivot arms

324a, 324b toward each other or the jaws pull the

respective tethers

308a, 308b, respectively.

Preferably, the

cam assemblies

320a, 320b are operated independently of each other by rotation of the handle switch 332. For example, as particularly shown in fig. 28, rotating the handle switch 332 in a first direction (see arcuate arrow) will actuate the first cam assembly 320a to clamp the pivot arms 324a toward each other (see converging arrow), but will not actuate the second cam assembly 320b to do the same. Conversely, as particularly shown in fig. 29, rotating the handle switch 332 in a second direction (see arcuate arrow) will actuate the second cam assembly 320a to clamp the pivot arms 324b toward each other (see converging arrow), but will not actuate the first cam assembly 320a to do the same.

The handle assembly 304 also includes an anti-wind back mechanism to ensure that when the door is in an open state and is hingedly secured to the door frame along only the first side, a user cannot simply turn the handle in the opposite direction with minimal force and inadvertently release the hinged connection along the second side. In essence, the anti-wind-back mechanism ensures that the door is always supported in the door frame along at least one side by the hinge.

In particular, fig. 30 illustrates an anti-wind-back mechanism that may be mechanically operated with the handle assembly 304. The illustrated anti-wind-back mechanism includes a plunger 341 having a handle 340 and a distal insertion tip 346 attachably secured by an aperture 342 extending through the housing 303. The distal insertion tip 346 is shown preferably having a chamfered geometry. The illustrated anti-reverse mechanism further includes a pair of

receivers

344a, 344b provided into the side (rear side) of the grip 301 facing the housing 303.

The

illustrated receivers

344a, 344b may be apertures positioned equidistant from the aperture 342 in the housing 303 in the parked state. When the handle 301 is mounted to the housing 303, such as in fig. 22-23, and the door 302 is closed in the door frame (not shown) such that the two sets of

fasteners

312a, 312b are secured in the door frame, the plunger distal tip 346 is positioned between the pair of

receivers

344a, 344 b.

When the handle 301 is rotated relative to the housing 303, such as in fig. 28 and 29, one of the

receivers

344a, 344b is rotated equally into alignment with the plunger distal tip insert 346 extending through the aperture 342. When plunger distal tip insert 346 is positioned in one of the

receivers

344a, 344b, handle 301 is prevented from rotating in the opposite direction to that which has been rotated with minimal force (torque).

The plunger 341 is thereby released from the aforementioned locking position by rotating the handle 301 in the opposite direction using a greater amount of force (torque) such that the chamfered edges of the distal tip insert 346 engage the edges of the

receivers

344a, 344b and are pushed out to the original resting position. The handle 310 is thus again ready to be rotated in either direction.

Fig. 30A-30D illustrate another handle system 350, the another handle system 350 being intended to operate in the described hinge control system 300 in a substantially similar manner as the handle system 304 previously described. The illustrated handle system 350 includes a substantially similar structure as the handle system 304 described previously, including

cam assemblies

320a, 320b, plunger receiver 342, and plunger 341. Operation of the illustrated handle system 350 causes mechanical movement of the illustrated

cam assemblies

320a, 320b substantially similar to the handle system 304 described previously.

The illustrated handle system 350 includes a handle switch assembly 352, the handle switch assembly 352 being similar to the handle switch 332 previously described, which actuates either of the illustrated

cam assemblies

320a, 320b. The illustrated handle switch assembly 352 includes a guide portion 354 (or track or cam), such as an opening (or channel) extending through the main handle assembly body from a rear side to an opposite front side. The guide portion 354 is defined by an elongated, and preferably semi-circular curvilinear geometry. As particularly shown in fig. 30C, the guide portion 354 may be defined in a bezel that is an integral part of the main handle assembly body (or base). As shown, the baffle defines a guide portion 354 between a raised inner wall 362 and a raised outer wall 360 such that the guide portion extends therebetween. The illustrated inner wall 362 may have a full circular geometry and the outer wall 360 may have a semi-circular geometry extending around a portion of the inner wall. Preferably, the outer wall 360 has a diameter greater than the diameter of the inner wall 362.

The illustrated handle switch assembly 352 also includes a pair of

followers

356a, 356b having free distal ends that extend through the guide 354, e.g., projecting beyond the height of the inner wall 362 and outer wall 360 baffles. The

followers

356a, 356b further extend through the illustrated

guides

328a, 328b of the illustrated

cam assemblies

320a, 320b.

As particularly shown in fig. 30D, handle assembly 350 further includes a handle 364, handle 364 being operably positioned on an opposite side of the body in a substantially similar manner as handle 301 previously described. The handle 364 supports a pair of

followers

356a, 356b, preferably in an offset position from each other.

Followers

356a, 356b are shown extending from the fixed end of the handle body to the distal tip. Preferably, the handle 364 is formed as a unitary structure by a single molding, including a body and a pair of

followers

356a, 356b.

The illustrated handle 364 includes a fastener receiver 366 to receive a fastener 358 inserted through an aperture (not shown) in the body of the handle assembly 350. For example, the fastener 358 may be a threaded screw and the fastener receiver 366 may be a threaded aperture having a corresponding thread pattern. An exemplary screw may have a head portion and an elongated insertion portion. Preferably, as shown in fig. 30A-30C, the head of the fastener 358 is wider than the gap of the aperture (not shown) extending through the body of the handle assembly 350, thereby preventing the fastener from extending completely through the aperture upon insertion.

Preferably, an aperture (not shown) in the body of the handle assembly 350 allows the fastener 358 to rotate about an axis extending therethrough. For example, the apertures (not shown) may have a smooth surface without a thread pattern and/or the apertures may have a gap wider than the width of the inserted portion of the fastener 358, thereby preventing contact or friction therebetween.

Fastener 358 is secured at or in fastener receiver 366 in handle 364 when inserted through an aperture (not shown). Preferably, the fastener receiver 366 defines features, such as threaded surfaces, that fasten to the insertion portion of the fastener 358. Preferably, fastener 358 is rigidly secured to fastener receiver 366 such that, once fastened, handle 364 correspondingly rotates with the fastener without rotating relative to the fastener. Thus, when tightened, the handle 364 is free to rotate in either direction relative to the body of the handle assembly 350 in a manner similar to the handle 301 previously described.

In use, with the handle 364 rotatably secured to the body of the handle assembly 350, as described above, a pair of

followers

356a, 356b extend through the guide portions 354 and through the

respective guide portions

328a, 328b in the

cam assemblies

320a, 320b. Rotation of the handle 364 in either the leftward or rightward direction causes actuation of the

respective cam assemblies

320a, 320b, as substantially similar to that described above, particularly in fig. 28-29.

The handle 364 may also include a pair of plunger receivers 368a, 369b that operate in a similar manner to the

receivers

344a, 344b described previously to receive the plungers 341 through the respective plunger receivers. Preferably, the illustrated handle 364 defines an exterior geometry and features substantially similar to the handle 301 previously described.

Indicator system

Another aspect disclosed includes an indicator system for informing a user whether a door is open or closed. For example, the indicator system may be used with doors that provide access to cabinets that store industrial equipment, such as communication cables and connectors. Exemplary storage cabinets refer to the cable storage elements shown in fig. 1-21. The exemplary door is door 302 introduced as an example in fig. 22-23. These doors are typically very heavy and are positioned so that it is difficult to determine whether the door has been left open after use. The indicator system (or indicator stimulus) may comprise a visual (or visual) indicator that is actuated to change between an open and a closed state, each state representing a different visual stimulus.

An exemplary indicator system is shown in fig. 31-34. The indicator system 400 is shown supported by a base that includes a bottom plate 402. The illustrated base may have a first end 440 and a second end 450. The base floor 402 may be secured to a portion of a storage structure, such as a cabinet having the aforementioned doors. Each

end

440, 450 may include a complete indicator system 400, such as may be used with a storage cabinet having a pair of oppositely oriented doors.

As particularly shown in fig. 32, the illustrated indicator system 400 includes a first extension, e.g., a cover 408, and a second extension, e.g., a visual indicator 410. The illustrated cover 408 is defined by the geometry of the receptacle 414. The geometry of exemplary receiver 414 may have a "V" shape with an outwardly facing planar surface. The illustrated visual indicator 410 includes a visual stimulus that is visible to the user when removed from the cover 408, as shown in fig. 29-30. For example, the visual stimulus may include a brightly colored surface or other functionally equivalent visual element.

The illustrated cover 408 is supported at the free end of the deflection arm 406, and the deflection arm 406 is mounted to the base floor 402 at a fixed end 420. When deflected away from the base 402 in the second activated state, as shown in fig. 31-33, the visual indicator 410 is displayed from the back and in the cover 408. In use, when the visual indicator 410 is displayed and visible to a user, the door that operates with the indicator system 400 is closed.

The deflection arm 406 may be manipulated or deflected away from the base floor 402 by a force applied by a ram (or plunger) supported by a door operating with the visual indicator system 400. The exemplary ram 404 is shown to include a distal tip 416 that engages (or contacts) a hidden side or underside of the deflection arm 406 to deflect the free end of the arm upward away from the base floor 402 to reveal the visual indicator 410 from the cover 408. An exemplary ram 404 may include spring-mounted pins, such as the

aforementioned hinge fasteners

312a, 312b. When the door is closed and the ram is aligned with the hole 418, the distal tip 416 of the ram 404 is shown as being able to travel through the entrance or hole 418 in the base floor 402.

Fig. 33-34 show the indicator system 400 in a first parked position when the door is open. As shown, when the door is opened, the ram supported by the door is also disengaged from engagement with the deflector arm 406. When the deflection arm 406 is disengaged from the arm, the deflection arm returns to a resting state in engagement with the base floor 402 by the energy of the resistance exerted by the deflection arm. In the parked state, the visual indicator 410 returns to a position in the receptacle 414 of the cover 408. When the visual indicator 410 is received in the cover 408, the visual stimulus is blocked (or obscured) from view and is not visible to the user, thereby informing the door of the open condition.

As shown, the visual indicator 410 stimulus may have a planar geometry oriented parallel to the outward facing planar surface of the cover 408. As a result, the visual indicator 410 may be nested behind the cover 408 when the door is closed.

Fig. 35 shows a front view of an assembly cabinet for managing a plurality of cables. The illustrated cabinet includes the aforementioned door 300 and handle 304. The illustrated handle 304 is rotated in a first or second direction to open the door 300 as previously described and access to the previously described cable support structure 10 having a plurality of mounting receiver systems 14 for supporting the spool. A plurality of the aforementioned indicator systems 400 are positioned along the top and bottom of the cabinet to indicate when the door 300 is open or closed, as previously described. The rear side of the cabinet (not shown) may have similar structure to the front side shown, e.g., door 300 and handle 304, indicator 400, and internal support structure 10.

Reference numerals

10. Support structure

12. Cabinet frame

14. Installation receiving piece system

16. Grasping hole

18. Inserting hole

50. Cable with a flexible connection

100. Bobbin

102. Carrier body

104. Proximal mounting end

106. Distal free end

108. Trough

110. Partition piece

112. Handle bar

114. Channel

115. Mounting system

116. Plug-in plug

118. Bracket

122. Receiving part space

124. Distal retaining wall

126. Proximal end retaining wall

128. Receiving piece

130. Locking mechanism

134. Lock hole

150. Bobbin

152. Internal storage features

154. Partition piece

156. Shoulder part

200. Bobbin

202. Distal baffle

204. Near-end baffle

206. Separator

206c separator half

206d separator half

208. Guide part

210. Track

214. Follower element

230. Bobbin

232. Guide part

234. Separator

236. Follower element

238. Tooth

240. Flexing element

250. Bobbin

252. Distal baffle

254. Near-end baffle

256. Guide part

258. Separator

260. Shoulder part

262. Stop piece

264. Insert piece

266. Receiving piece

268. Track

300. Hinge control system

301. Handle bar

302. Door with a door panel

303. Shell body

304. Handle assembly

306. Hinge mechanism

308a tether

308b tether

312a fastener

312b fastener

314a biasing element

314b biasing element

316. Mounting element

318. Baffle plate

320a cam assembly

320b cam assembly

322a first arm

322b first arm

324a pivot arm

324b pivoting arm

326a fastener

316b fastener

328a guide part

328b guide part

330a follower

330b follower

332. Handle switch

334. Fastening piece

340. Handle bar

341. Plunger piston

342. Hole(s)

344a receiver

344b receiver

346. Distal insertion tip

350. Handle system

352. Handle switch assembly

354. Guide part

356a follower

356b follower

358. Fastening piece

360. Outer wall

362. Inner wall

364. Handle bar

366. Fastener receiver

368a plunger receiver

368b plunger receiver

400. Indicator system

402. Base plate

404. Ram hammer

406. Deflection arm

408. Cover

410. Visual indicator

414. Receiving piece

416. Distal tip

418. Hole(s)

420. Fixed end

440. First end part

450. Second end portion

Aspects of the present invention also relate to a cable management device, including: a cable carrier extending along an axis between a free end and a mounting end; at least one divider repositionably supported by the cable carrier; and a repositioning system for repositioning the at least one divider to a plurality of positions along the axis between the free end and the mounted end of the cable carrier. The repositioning system includes a plurality of fixed positions for supporting the divider, the plurality of fixed positions being spaced apart from one another. The plurality of securing locations include a plurality of receivers for receiving the at least one divider. The plurality of receivers includes a plurality of holes in the cable carrier. The plurality of receivers includes a plurality of locking mechanisms for releasably securing the at least one divider to the plurality of securing locations. The plurality of locking mechanisms includes a plurality of deflecting arms defining a resistive force applied toward the at least one divider. The plurality of securing locations include a plurality of stops for releasably preventing movement of the at least one divider along the axis to a plurality of locations between the free end and the mounting end of the cable carrier. The plurality of stops includes an insert and the at least one divider includes a receiver to removably receive the insert of the stops. The repositioning system includes a guide extending along an axis between the mounting end and the free end, and the at least one divider includes a follower that travels along the guide. The guide includes a ratchet surface. The ratchet surface includes a plurality of peaks and valleys, and the follower includes a plurality of teeth to disengagagably engage the plurality of peaks and valleys. The cable management apparatus also includes a storage support to store at least one of the at least one divider when the divider is not in use. The at least one divider includes a flat plate having a receiver to releasably secure to the repositioning system. The cable carrier mounting end includes a mounting system. The mounting system includes at least one bracket. The mounting system includes an insert plug. The plug-in plug is pivotally secured relative to the cable carrier. The cable carrier includes a pair of halves. The pair of halves are identical. Each half includes at least one divider and at least one repositioning system. Each half also includes a mounting system. Each half includes a distal baffle at the free end and a proximal baffle at the mounting end.

Aspects of the invention also relate to a method for managing cables, the method comprising: mounting a cable carrier to a base, the cable carrier including a repositionable cable management system and at least one spacer; positioning the at least one spacer to a first position on a repositionable cable management system; and receiving at least one length of cable on a cable carrier. The repositionable cable management system includes a plurality of securing locations for supporting the at least one spacer, the plurality of securing locations being spaced apart from one another. The method also includes repositioning the at least one spacer at a different second location on the repositionable cable management system. The repositionable cable management system includes a plurality of securing locations for supporting the at least one spacer, the plurality of securing locations being spaced apart from one another. The repositionable cable management system includes a guide extending along an axis between a distal end and a proximal end, and the at least one spacer includes a follower that travels along the guide.

Aspects of the present invention also relate to a cable management device, including: a spool extending along an axis between a free end and a mounting end; at least one divider plate repositionably supported by the spool; and a repositioning system for repositioning the at least one divider plate to a plurality of positions along the axis between the free end and the mounting end of the spool. The repositioning system includes a plurality of fixed positions for supporting the at least one divider plate, the plurality of fixed positions being spaced apart from one another. The repositioning system includes a guide extending along an axis between the distal end and the proximal end, and the at least one separation plate includes a follower that travels along the guide. The base includes at least one mounting receptacle for receiving at least one cable management device. The base includes a frame.

Aspects of the invention also relate to a cable management system, comprising: a base including a mounting receiver; a carrier including a mounting end and a free end, the mounting end including a mounting assembly removably mounted to a base mounting receiver; and at least one selectable partition system supported by the carrier, the selectable partition system including at least one partition selectably supported at a plurality of locations between the mounting end and the free end.

While specific embodiments of the disclosure have been described, various other modifications and alternative embodiments are also within the scope of the disclosure. For example, any functionality described with respect to a particular device or component may be implemented by another device or component. In addition, although specific device features are described, embodiments of the present disclosure may be directed to a variety of other device features. Further, although embodiments have been described in language specific to structural features and/or methodological acts, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not limited to the specific features or acts described. Rather, the specific features and acts are disclosed as exemplary forms of implementing the embodiments. Conditional language, such as, but not limited to, "may", "can", and "can", unless specifically stated otherwise or understood otherwise herein, is generally intended to indicate that an embodiment may include, while other embodiments may not include, certain features, elements and/or steps. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements and/or steps are not in any way required by one or more embodiments.

Claims

1. An indicator for displaying whether a door is in an open or closed state, the indicator comprising:

an indicator comprising an indicator stimulus indicating closing of the door when the door is closed;

a cover that blocks the indicator actuation to indicate opening of the door when the door is open; and

a ram having a contact end that engages and deflects the cover and travels through the aperture of the door frame and deflects the cover from a position where the cover blocks actuation of the indicator to a position where actuation of the indicator is indicated when the ram closes the door.

2. The indicator of claim 1, wherein the indicator stimulus is a visual stimulus and the cover covers the visual stimulus when the door is open.

3. The indicator of claim 2, wherein the cover includes an arm extending between a fixed end and a free end, the cover being supported at the free end.

4. The indicator of claim 3, wherein the arm deflects away from the door to expose the visual stimulus when the door is closed.

5. The indicator of claim 4, wherein the ram engages the arm to deflect the arm away from the door when the door is closed.

6. An indicator system that displays whether a door is in an open or closed state, the indicator system comprising:

a ram fixed to the door, the ram including a contact end that travels through the aperture of the door frame;

an indicator comprising an indicator stimulus that indicates closing of the door when the door is closed; and

a cover that blocks the indicator actuation to indicate opening of the door when the door is open, the cover being engaged and deflected by the contact end of the ram as the ram travels through the aperture.

7. The indicator system of claim 6, wherein the indicator stimulus is a visual stimulus and the cover covers the visual stimulus when the door is open.

8. The indicator system of claim 7 wherein the cover includes an arm extending between a fixed end and a free end, the cover being supported at the free end.

9. The indicator system of claim 8, wherein the free end of the arm is deflected by the contact end of the ram to expose the visual stimulus when the door is closed.

10. A method for displaying whether a door is in an open or closed state, the method comprising:

deflecting the cover away from the indicator actuation by engaging the cover with a ram on the door when the door is closed, the ram having a contact end that engages and deflects the cover and travels through the aperture of the door frame and deflects the cover from a position where the cover blocks the indicator actuation to a position where the indicator actuation is displayed when the ram closes the door; and

blocking the indicator actuation with the cover by disengaging the cover from the ram when the door is open.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein the cover includes an arm extending between a fixed end and a free end, the arm being deflected relative to the fixed end.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein the indicator stimulus is a visual stimulus and the cover receives the visual stimulus when the door is closed.