MX2008005358A - Fiber optic splice storage apparatus and methods for using the same - Google Patents

Abstract

A fiber optic splice storage apparatus (100) includes a central segment (112) defining a splice chamber configured to receive a plurality of fiber optic splices, a first slack fiber storage segment (120) pivotally connected to a first end of the central segment (112) and having an open position extending from the first end (118) away from the central segment (112) and a closed position extending over the central segment (112) , and a second slack fiber storage segment (130) pivotally connected to a second end (122) of the central segment (112) , opposite the first end (119) , the second slack fiber storage segment (130) having an open position extending from the second end (122) away from the central segment (112) and a closed position extending over the central segment (112) . A first plurality of slack fiber guide members (105) on the first slack fiber storage segment (120) are configured to receive and retain a loop of optical fibers and a second plurality of slack fiber guide members (110) on the second slack fiber storage segment (130) are configured to receive and retain aloop of optical fibers.

Description

APPARATUS FOR STORING FIBER OPTIC FIBERS AND METHODS FOR USING IT Related Requests This application claims the priority of United States Provisional Application No. 60 / 29,575 (case of attorney-in-fact No. E-TO-00085 / 5487-240PR), filed on October 24, 2005, whose descriptive memory remains incorporated here in its entirety, by means of this reference. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to fiber optic products and, more particularly, to products for storing optical fiber and methods for using them. More and more networks are being installed. fiber optic to support high-speed voice and data communications. Increasingly fiber optic coupling is expanding from the central office of the communication service provider companies, such as the Regional Bell Operating Companies (RBOC) to the subscriber sites, such as homes or businesses; where conventional copper wiring was conventionally used. In various places, in a fiber optic network, fibers or the like should be tied or spliced in an organized manner. Trays for splicing fiber, or the like, can be used to provide such splices in an organized manner. However, several applications may have limited space available to receive such splice trays, which may restrict the possibility of providing an adequate splice tray. Additionally, conventional splice trays are flat and non-movable; therefore, they generally require the splicer technician to manually load and extract the fibers from the tray. Storing and removing all fibers at the same time can be an important aspect of keeping a splice tray loaded randomly. For example, fiber 4 can be spliced on day one, and fiber 6 can be spliced on day two, and the remainder can be spliced for a period of time in a random order, for a randomly loaded splice tray. If all the fibers are not completely undone each time a splice is made, an unmanageable rat nest, of entangled fibers, may result from repeated access to add the fiber splices. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The embodiments of the present invention include an apparatus for storing optical fiber splices, including a central segment defining a splice chamber, configured to receive a plurality of fiber optic splices; a first segment for storing loose fiber, pivotally connected to a first end of the central segment, and having an open position extending from the first end, away from the central segment, and a closed position extending over the central segment; and a second segment for storing loose fiber, pivotally connected to a second end of the central segment, opposite the first end; the second segment for storing loose fiber having an open position extending from the second end, away from the central segment, and a closed position extending over the central segment. A first plurality of loose fiber guide members, in the first segment for storing loose fiber, is configured to receive and retain a bundle of optical fibers; and a second plurality of loose fiber guide members is configured to receive and retain a bundle of optical fibers. In other embodiments, a first fiber guide member and a second fiber guide member are provided on the center segment in the splice chamber. The first fiber guide member and one of the first plurality of loose fiber guide members define a first fiber path extending from the central segment to the first loose fiber storage segment. The second fiber guide member and one of the second plurality of loose fiber members define a second fiber path extending from the central segment to the second loose fiber storage segment. The first fiber guide member can be a fiber input to the splice chamber, and the second fiber guide member may be a fiber outlet to the splice chamber. It will be understood that the fiber can exit and / or enter, whether the fiber input or output, such terminology generally refers to the context of associated signals or network locations associated with the respective fibers. In other embodiments, the central segment further includes a third fiber guide member and a fourth fiber guide member. The third fiber guide member and a second member of the first plurality of loose fiber guide members define a third path extending from the central segment to the first loose fiber storage segment. The fourth fiber guide member and a second member of the second plurality of loose fiber guide members define a fourth fiber path extending from the central segment to. second storage segment of loose fiber. An intersection of the first and third fiber paths defines a first fiber crossing site, close to an intermediate portion of the first end, to limit the bending of the optical fibers that extend along the first and third fiber paths , when the first loose fiber storage segment is moved from its open position to its closed position. The second and fourth fiber paths define a second fiber crossing location, close to an intermediate portion of the second end, to limit the bending of the optical fibers extending along the second and fourth fiber paths, when moves the second loose fiber storage segment from its open position to its closed position. The third fiber guiding member and the other fiber guiding member can be a splice-receiving member. Each of the first and second members of the first plurality of loose fiber guide members, and of the first and second members of the second plurality of loose fiber guide members may be an opposite pair of guide members. In other embodiments, the apparatus for storing optical fiber splices further includes a member that mounts the storage apparatus at a third end of the central segment. The third end extends from the first end to the second end. The mounting member of the storage apparatus is configured to allow the apparatus for storing optical fiber splices to be pivotally mounted in an enclosure. The first fiber guide member, in the central segment, may be a fiber inlet to the splice chamber at the third end of the central segment, and the second fiber guide member in the central segment may be a fiber outlet to the splice chamber at the third end of the center segment, and the mounting member of the storage apparatus may be positioned between the fiber inlet and the fiber outlet. In other embodiments a first hinge pivotally connects the first loose fiber storage segment with the central segment; and a second hinge pivotally connects the second loose fiber storage segment with the central segment.

The central segment, the first loose fiber storage segment and the second loose fiber storage segment can be made of polycarbonate. The first and second hinges can be live hinges and the central segment, the first loose fiber storage segment and the second loose fiber storage segment can be made of polypropylene (PP). The apparatus for storing optical fiber splices can be a splice tray. When the first and second loose fiber storage segments are in their closed position, the second loose fiber storage segment can be extended over the first loose fiber storage segment. In still further embodiments, the apparatus for storing optical fiber splices further includes a first plurality of optical fibers extending to. along the first fiber path and the third fiber path forming curl in the first loose fiber storage segment, so that the first plurality of optical fibers crosses over itself, close to the first fiber crossing point . A second plurality of optical fibers extends along the second fiber path and the fourth fiber path, which form a loop on the second loose fiber storage segment, so that the second plurality of optical fibers cross over each other. same close to the second place of fiber crossing. One of the first plurality of optical fibers may be spliced to a corresponding one of the second plurality of optical fibers to define the plurality of optical fiber splices. The first plurality of optical fibers can be releasably retained with a curl thereon in the first loose fiber storage segment, by means of the first and the second members of the first plurality of loose fiber guide members. The second plurality of optical fibers can be releasably retained with a curl thereon in the second loose fiber storage segment, by means of the first and second members of the second plurality of loose fiber guide members. The locations of the first fiber crossing anode and the second fiber crossing point can be selected to provide a minimum bending radius for the first and second plurality of optical fibers, when the first and second fiber storage segments. loose are in their respective closed position. In other embodiments of the present invention a triple fiber splice tray includes a central segment and first and second loose fiber storage segments. The central segment defines a splice chamber, configured to receive a plurality of fiber optic splices. The first loose fiber storage segment is pivotally connected to a first end of the central segment and has an open position extending from the first end, away from the central segment, and a closed position extending over the central segment. The second loose fiber storage segment is pivotally connected to a second end of the central segment, opposite the first end. The second loose fiber storage segment has an open position extending from the second end, away from the central segment, and a closed position, which is understood on the central segment. Legs for mounting the tray extend from a third end of the center segment; the third end extending from the first end to the second end. The tray mounting legs are configured to allow the splice tray to be pivotally mounted in an enclosure. A first fiber entry to the splice chamber is at the third end of the center segment, between the tray mounting legs and the second end. A fiber outlet to the splice chamber is at the third end of the center segment, between the tray mounting legs and the first end. A first and a second loose fiber guide member, in the first loose fiber storage segment, are configured to receive and retain a bundle of optical fibers. The fiber entry and the first loose fiber guide member define a first fiber path extending from the central segment to the first loose fiber storage segment. A third and a fourth loose fiber guide members, in the second loose fiber storage segment, are configured to receive and retain a bundle of optical fibers. The fiber outlet and the third loose fiber guide member define a second fiber path extending from the central segment to the second loose fiber storage segment. A splice receiving member is provided in the center segment. The splice receiving member and the second loose fiber guide member define a third fiber path extending from the center segment to the first loose fiber storage segment. The splice receiving member and the fourth loose fiber guide member define a fourth fiber path extending from the central segment to the second loose fiber storage segment. An intersection of the first and third fiber paths defines a first fiber crossing point, close to an intermediate portion of the first end, to limit the bending of the optical fibers that extend along the first and third fiber paths , when the first loose fiber storage segment is moved from its open position to its closed position. The second and the fourth fiber paths define a second fiber crossing site close to an intermediate portion of the second end to limit the bending of the optical fibers that extend along the second and fourth fiber paths, when moving the second loose fiber storage segment from its open position to its closed position. In yet other embodiments, methods for storing loose fiber in an apparatus for storing optical fiber splices include: storing a bundle of a first plurality of fibers in a first loose fiber storage segment of the splice storing apparatus, pivotally connected to a first end of a central segment of the apparatus for storing splices. A bundle of a second plurality of fibers is stored in a second loose fiber storage segment of the splice storing apparatus, pivotally connected to a second end of the central segment, opposite the first end. The first loose fiber storage segment is folded into a closed position extending over the central segment, and the second loose fiber storage segment is folded into a closed position extending over the central segment. In other embodiments, storing the bundle of the first plurality of fibers includes: twisting the first plurality of fibers to form the bundle with a fiber crossing location close to a midpoint of the connection between the first loose fiber storage segment and the central segment. Storing the bundle of the second plurality of fibers includes: twisting the second plurality of fibers to form a bundle with a fiber crossing location located near a midpoint of the connection between the second loose fiber storage segment and the segment central. Storing the bundle of the first plurality of fibers may include: placing a first segment of the first plurality of fibers in a first loose fiber guide member in the first loose fiber storage segment, and a second segment of the first plurality of fibers of fibers in a second loose fiber guide member, in the first loose fiber storage segment. Storing the bundle of the second plurality of fibers may include placing a first segment of the second plurality of fibers in a first loose fiber guide member in the second loose fiber storage segment., and a second segment of the second plurality of fibers in a second loose fiber guide member in the second loose fiber storage segment. In other embodiments, the method further includes coupling one of the first plurality of fibers to one selected from the second plurality of fibers, to form a splice therebetween, and placing the splice in a splice receiving member, in the central segment. Coupling one of the first plurality of fibers may include: moving the first and second loose fiber storage elements to their open positions; removing a loose fiber section from one of the first plurality of fibers of the first and second loose fiber guide members in the first loose fiber storage member; removing a loose fiber section from the selected one of the second plurality of fibers, from the first and second fiber guide members, into the second loose fiber storage element, and splicing the ends of the loose fiber loose sections of an of the first plurality of fibers and that selected from the second plurality of fibers, to form a splice between them. In other additional embodiments, after splicing the ends of the removed sections, the removed section of the loose fiber fiber of the first plurality of fibers is restored to the bundle of the first plurality of fibers and the removed section of the loose fiber is restored. from the selected one of the second plurality of fibers to the bundle of the second plurality of fibers. The first loose fiber storage segment is folded to the closed position extending over the central segment, and the second loose fiber storage segment is folded to the closed position, which extends over the central segment. In other embodiments, removing the loose fiber section from one of the first plurality of fibers includes: removing the bundle from the first plurality of fibers of the first loose fiber storage member; and removing the loose fiber section from the selected one of the second plurality of fibers includes: removing the bundle from the second plurality of fibers from the second loose fiber storage element. Restore the short fiber drawn stretch of fiber from the first plurality of fibers to the bundle of the first plurality of fibers, including resetting the bundle of the first plurality of fibers to the first loose fiber storage segment, and re-storing the fiber. The stretch taken from the loose fiber of the selected fiber of the second plurality of fibers includes returning the bundle of the second plurality of fibers to the second loose fiber storage segment. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Figure 1 is a perspective view illustrating an apparatus for storing optical fiber splices, which includes two pluralities of optical fibers according to some embodiments of the present invention. Figure 2 is a perspective view of the apparatus of Figure 1, with the respective pluralities of optical fibers twisted to form bundles according to some embodiments of the present invention. Figure 3 is a perspective view of the apparatus of Figure 1 with the first loose fiber storage segment in an intermediate position between its open position and its closed position.

Figure 4 is a perspective view of the apparatus of Figure 1, with the first loose fiber storage segment in its closed position. Figure 5 is a perspective view of the apparatus of Figure 1, with the second loose fiber storage segment in an intermediate position between its open position and its closed position.

Figure 6 is a perspective view of the apparatus of Figure 1, with the first and second loose fiber storage segments in their closed position. Figure 7 is a perspective view illustrating an apparatus for storing optical fiber splices including two bundle pluralities of optical fibers according to other embodiments of the present invention. Figure 8 is a perspective view of the apparatus of Figure 7, with the first loose fiber storage segment in its closed position. Figure 9 is a perspective view of the apparatus of the figure 7 with the first and second loose fiber storage segments in their closed position. Fig. 10 is a flow chart illustrating the operations of storing loose fiber in an apparatus for storing optical fiber splices, according to some embodiments of the present invention; and Figure 11 is a flow diagram illustrating the operations of storing loose fiber in an apparatus for storing optical fiber splices, according to other embodiments of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE MODES OF THE INVENTION The present invention will now be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which illustrative embodiments of the invention are shown. In the drawings the relative sizes of regions or aspects may be exaggerated for clarity. However, the invention can be incorporated in many different ways, and should not be considered limited to the modalities indicated herein; rather, these modalities are provided so that this description is accurate and complete, and fully communicates the scope of the invention to those who are experts in the field. It will be understood that, although the terms first, second, etc. may be used here. , to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections, those elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections should not be limited by those terms. These terms are only used to distinguish an element, component, region, layer or section from another region, layer or section. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section, discussed below, could be designated as a second element, component, region, layer or section, without departing from the teachings of the present invention. Spatially relative terms, such as "below", "below", "inferior", "above", "superior" and the like, can be used here to facilitate the description, in order to describe a relation of elements or aspects with others elements or aspects, as illustrated in the figures. It will be understood that the relative spaced terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation, in addition to the orientation illustrated in the figures. For example, if the device of the figures is turned upside down, the elements described as "below" or "below" other elements or aspects, would then be oriented "on top" of the other elements or aspects. Thus, the example term "below" can encompass both an up and down orientation. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 ° or in other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein should be interpreted accordingly. As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an", "the", "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless expressly stated otherwise. It will further be understood that the terms "includes", "comprises", "include" and / or "understand", when used in this specification, specify the presence of aspects, members, steps, operations, elements and / or components; but they do not prevent the presence or addition of one or more other aspects, members, steps, operations, elements, components and / or their groups. It will be understood that, when an element is referred to as "connected" or "coupled" to another element, it can be connected or coupled directly to the other element or intermediate elements may be present. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the articles mentioned as associated. Unless defined otherwise, all terms (including the technical and scientific terms) used herein, have the same meaning as commonly understood by one having ordinary experience in the subject to which the present invention pertains. It will be further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted with meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of this description and in the relevant art, and should not be interpreted in an idealized or excessively formal sense, unless they are so expressly defined in the present.

The apparatus for storing optical fiber splices according to some embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to figures 1 to 9. With reference primarily to the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, an apparatus 100 for storing splices of Optical fiber is illustrated having a first plurality of optical fibers 105 and a second plurality of optical fibers 1 10. More particularly, the apparatus for storing optical fiber splices illustrated in Figures 1 and 2 is shown as a splice tray that is hinged in three folds. The apparatus 100 may be used, for example, in confined spaces, cabinets, pedestals, boxes, shelves and the like, where splices and / or shunts are provided between respective fiber optic cables, and for storage of associated loose fiber which may be necessary for connections with the formation of splices or the like using, for example, external splicing equipment. The illustrated splice tray 100 includes a central segment 12, a first loose fiber storage segment 120 and a second loose fiber storage segment 130. The first and second loose fiber storage segments 120, 130 are pivotally connected, respectively, to a first end 1 18 and a second opposite end 122 of the central segment 1 12. The central segment 1 12 defines a splice chamber 1 14, configured to receive a plurality of fiber optic splices 1 16. Each of the first and second loose fiber storage segments 1 20, 1 30 has an open position extending from the first and second ends 1 1 8, 122, respectively, away from the central segment 1 12, such as it is illustrated in Figures 1 and 2, and a closed position that extends over the center segment 1 12, as illustrated in Figure 6. As best seen in Figure 2, a first plurality of guide members is provided. loose fiber 1 28 in the first loose fiber storage segment 1 20, which are configured to receive and retain a loop 1 05a of the optical fibers 1 05. A plurality of loose fiber guide members 1 32 in the second segment 1 30 of loose fiber storage, is configured to receive and retain a bundle 1 1 0a of the optical fibers 1 1 0. As seen also in Figures 1 and 2, a member 1 38 splice receiver in the central segment 1 1 2 also provides a guide member fiber for the respective selected fibers of the optical fibers 1 05 and 1 1 0, which are joined together In the illustrated embodiments of Figures 1 and 2, the splice receiving member 38 serves both as a guiding member for the spliced fibers of the respective plurality of fibers 1 05, 1 1 0, and additionally provides a positioning slot arrangement for receiving a splice formed between the respective fibers with a protective sheath thereon. Also illustrated are inlet / outlet fiber guide members in the central segment 112. More particularly, a fiber inlet 136 to the splice chamber 114 allows access to the chamber 114 and defines a fiber guide member for the first plurality of fibers 105; and a fiber outlet 134 to the junction chamber 114 gives access to the chamber 114 and defines a guide member for the second plurality of optical fibers 110 in the central segment 112. The fiber entry 136 in the central segment 112 and a member 128a, 128b of the first plurality of loose fiber guide members 128, define a first fiber path 207 extending from the central segment 112 to the first loose fiber storage segment 120. The fiber outlet 134 and a member 132a, 132b of the second plurality of the loose fiber guide members 132 define a second fiber path 205 extending from the central segment 112 to the second loose fiber storage segment 130. As further shown in Figure 2, the splice receiving member 138 and a second member 128a ', 128b' of the first plurality of the loose fiber guide members 128 define a third fiber path 209, extending from the central segment 112 to the first loose fiber storage segment 120. The splice receiving member 138 and a second member 132a ', 132b' of the second plurality of loose fiber guide members 132 define a fourth fiber path 211, which extends from the central segment 112 to the second storage segment 130 of loose fiber. An intersection of the first fiber path 207 and the third fiber path 209 define a first fiber crossing location 220, close to an intermediate or middle portion of the first end 1 18 of the center segment 1 12. The first crossing location 220 of fiber is positioned so as to limit the flexure of the optical fibers that extend along the first fiber path 207 and the third fiber path 209, when the first loose fiber storage segment is moved from its open position (figure 1) to its closed position (figure 4, 5 and 6). In other words, the respective optical fibers are predominantly subjected to twisting during rotation, while maintaining a minimum recommended bending radius, to reduce the risk of damage to the fibers during closure of the first loose fiber storage segment 120 . The second fiber path 205 and the fourth fiber path 21 1 define a second fiber crossing location 222, close to an intermediate or middle portion of the second end 1 16 of the center segment 1 12, to similarly limit the bending of the fiber. the optical fibers of the plurality of optical fibers 1 1 0 extending along the second fiber paths 205 and fourth 21 1, when the second loose fiber storage segment 130 moves from its open position (FIG. 2) to its closed position (figure 6). As shown in Figures 1 and 2, in the illustrated embodiments, the respective loose fiber guide members 128, 132 may be opposite pairs of guide members. As seen in Figures 1 and 2, the respective pairs can be opposite ears and / or fasteners, provided in pairs 1 28a, 1 28b, 1 28a ', 128b', 132a, 132b, 132a ', 1 32b'. Also as shown in the embodiments of Figures 1 and 2, the pivotal connection between the respective loose fiber storage segments 1 20, 1 and the central segment 1 12 may be provided by a respective first hinge 140 and a second hinge. respective 1 50. In some embodiments, the first and second hinges 140, 1 50 may be live hinges and the central segment 1 1 2, the first loose fiber storage segment 120 and the second loose fiber storage segment 1 30 may be of polypropylene (PP). In other embodiments a mechanical hinge can be used, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, and the central segment 1 12, the first loose fiber storage segment 120 and the second loose fiber storage segment 1 30 can be polycarbonate and / or other suitable engineering thermoplastic. As seen in Figure 2, in the illustrated embodiments, the first plurality of optical fibers 105 extends along the first fiber path 207 and the third fiber path 209, and they are gathered in a bundle 105 in the first loose fiber storage segment 1 20, so that the first plurality of optical fibers 1 05 intersects itself close to the first fiber crossing location 220. The second plurality of optical fibers 1 10 extends along the second fiber path 205 and the fourth fiber path 21 1, and are formed in a bundle 1 10 a in the second loose fiber storage segment 130, so that the second plurality of optical fibers 1 10 intersect on itself close to the location 222 of the second fiber crossing. As seen also in Figure 2, fibers of the first plurality of optical fibers 105 are spliced to corresponding fibers of the second plurality of optical fibers 1 10, to define a plurality of optical fiber splices 1 16. For example, the first plurality of optical fibers 105 may be fibers that extend from a subscriber location, and may be coupled by splices to a second plurality of optical fibers 1 10 extending to a connection panel associated with an office central or similar, for use in selectively providing a service to some subscribers associated with respective optical fibers included in the first plurality of optical fibers 105. More particularly, the first plurality of optical fibers 105 can be detachably retained with a loop 105a therein, in the first loose fiber storage segment 120, by means of a first plurality of loose fiber guide members 128. The second plurality of optical fibers 1 10 can be releasably retained with a loop 1 10a therein, in the second loose fiber storage segment 130, by means of the second plurality of loose fiber guide members 1 32. In that way, when an operator accesses the individual fibers for the purpose of forming a joint 16 or the like, he can separately extract the loops 105 a, 1 a from the respective plurality of fibers 105, 1 10, to access the fibers individual, and then return the loops using the fastener members after the formation of the splice. Said way of proceeding can reduce the entanglement and the like of the respective optical fibers, since the splices can be formed in different combinations and at different times, which requires repeated access to the respective optical fibers. While the illustrated embodiments of an apparatus for storing optical fiber splices, or splice tray 100, have been described generally further back, primarily with reference to the open positions of Figures 1 and 2, the splice tray 100 is further illustrated in different conditions in Figures 3 to 6. More particularly, Figure 3 illustrates the first loose fiber storage segment 120 in transition from its open position to a closed position, extending over the central segment 1 12. The figure 4 illustrates the first loose fiber segment 120 in its closed position, which extends over the central segment 1 12, while the second loose fiber storage segment 130 is still in the open position. Figure 5 illustrates the second loose fiber storage segment 130 in an intermediate position during the transition from the open position to the closed position.

Finally, Figure 6 illustrates the first and second loose fiber storage segments 120, 130 in their closed position extending over the central segment 1 12. More particularly, for the illustrated embodiments, the second loose fiber segment 130 is extends over the center segment 1 12 and over the first loose fiber storage segment 120. However, it will be understood that the present invention is not limited to configurations in which the second loose fiber storage segment 130 rests on the first loose fiber storage segment 120, in the closed position. For example, the first loose fiber storage segment 1 20 may extend over the second loose fiber storage segment 130; or a larger central segment 1 12 may be provided and the respective loose fiber storage segments 120, 130 may not extend over all and / or even a portion of the other segment. In some embodiments, the first and / or second loose fiber storage segments 120, 130 can be secured in their respective closed positions by means of a latch or the like. The securing can be a hinge groove point, or the like, which requires a greater force to rotate from the closed position and / or a securing mechanism that requires the activation of an insuring mechanism, by means of displacement or the like, to release the respective loose fiber storage segments, for their rotation movement. Additionally, as seen in Figure 6, the first and second segments 1 20, 1 30 of loose fiber storage, can act as an integrated, hinged lid for the splice tray, which can be used in place of a lid separable conventional. A triple fiber splice tray 600 will now be described, in accordance with other embodiments of the present invention, with reference to Figures 7 to 9. Figure 7 illustrates the triple splice tray 600 in an open position. Figure 8 illustrates one side in an open position and one side in a closed position; and Figure 9 illustrates the Triple Fiber Splice Tray 600 in a fully closed orientation. Note that the elements that have similar numbers (for example, 1 12, 61 2) in the modalities of Figures 7 to 9, can generally correspond to the elements that were previously described, except for what is specifically noted here. The fiber splice tray 600 illustrated in the embodiments of Figure 7 includes a central segment 61 2 defining a splice chamber 614, configured to receive a plurality of fiber optic splices. A first loose fiber storage segment 620 is pivotally connected to a first end 61 8 of the central segment 612. The first loose fiber storage segment 620 has an open position extending from the first end 61 8, away from the segment central 612, as shown in figure 7, and a closed position extending over the second segment, as in 1 1 2, which is seen in figures 8 and 9. A second loose fiber storage segment 630 is connected pivotally to a second end 622 of the central segment 61 2. The second end 622 is opposite the first end 61 8. The second loose fiber storage segment 630 has an open position extending from the second end 622, away from the segment central 61 2, as seen in figure 7, and a closed position, which extends over the central segment 61 2, as seen in figure 9. The central segment 61 2 includes an entrance a fiber 636 to the splice chamber 614, at a third end 624 of the center segment 61 2, and a fiber outlet 634 to the splice chamber 61 4 at the third end 624 of the center segment 61 2. The third end 624 extends from the first end 61 8 to the second end 622. Loose fiber guide members are provided first 628a, 628b and second 628a ', 628b', in the first loose fiber storage segment 620, which are configured to receive and maintain a loop 605a of the optical fibers 605 The fiber entry 636 and the first loose fiber guide member 628a, 628b, define a first fiber path extending from the center segment 61 2 to the first loose fiber storage segment 620. Also shown in the embodiments shown in FIG. 7 are the fiber guide members 629, 633, at the respective ends of the segment 620, 630, displaced from the central segment 612, which may serve to limit the extension of the segments. respective fibers 605, 610, beyond the outer edges of the segments 620, 630. Similarly, third loose fiber guide members 632a, 632b and fourth loose fiber guide members 632a ', 632b' are provided in the second loose fiber storage segment 630, which are configured to receive and retain a loop 610a of the optical fibers 610. The fiber outlet 634 and the loose fiber guide member 623a, 632b define a second fiber path extending from the central segment 612 to the second loose fiber storage segment 630. A splice receiving member 638 is also shown in the center segment 612. The splice receiving member 638 and the loose fiber guide member 628a ', 628b'. define a third path extending from the central segment 612 to the first loose fiber storage element 620. The splice receiving member 638 and the loose fiber guide member 632a, 632b define a fourth fiber path extending from the central segment 612, up to the second loose fiber storage segment 630. An intersection of the first and third fiber paths defines a first fiber crossing location 660, close to an intermediate portion of the first end 618, to limit the bending of the optical fibers 605 that extend along the fiber paths first and third, when the first loose fiber storage segment 620 is moved from its open position (Figure 7) to a closed position (Figures 8 and 9). The second and fourth fiber paths define a second fiber crossing location 622, close to an intermediate portion of the second end 622, to limit the bending of the optical fibers 61 0 extending along the second fiber paths and fourth, when the second loose fiber storage segment 630 moves from its open position (Figures 7 and 8) to its closed position (Figure 9). The embodiments illustrated in Figures 7 to 9 differ from those described with reference to Figures 1 to 6 in the inclusion of a member mounting the storage apparatus, at the third end 124, 624 of the central segment 1 1 2, 61 2 As illustrated in Figures 7 to 9, the member mounting the storage apparatus is provided by means of tray mounting legs 650. The tray mounting legs extend from the third end 624 of the center segment 612 and are configured to allow the splice tray 600 to be pivotally mounted in an enclosure. The fiber inlet 636 is located at the third end 624, between the tray mounting legs 650 and the second end 622, while the fiber outlet 634 is located at the third end 624, between the tray mounting legs 650. and the first end 61 8. In other words, the tray mounting legs 60 are located between the fiber inlet 636 and the fiber outlet 634. As further shown in the embodiments of Figures 7 to 9, the tray mounting legs 650 are a molded member that includes respective openings 652 and 654 that align and correspond with the respective fiber inlet 636 and fiber outlet 634 , to further facilitate the fiber guidance function at the inlet 636 and at the outlet 634. The embodiments illustrated in figures 7 to 9 also include respective torsional lashings 652, 656, or other detachable fastening means, which locate the respective optical fibers 605, 610, in position in the openings 634, 636. Figure 8 illustrates the splice tray 600 with the first loose fiber storage segment 620 in its closed position, and the second segment 630 in its open position. Figure 9 also shows both segments 620, 630 in their closed position, which extends over the central segment 612. Methods for storing loose fiber in an apparatus for storing optical fiber splices, according to some embodiments of the invention, will now be described. present invention, and with reference to figures 10 and 11. Referring first to the flow chart illustration of Figure 10, operations begin by storing a loop of a first plurality of fibers in the first loose fiber storage segment of the splice storing apparatus, which is pivotally connected to a first end. of a central segment of the apparatus for storing splices (block 1000). A loop of a second plurality of fibers is stored in a second loose fiber storage segment of the splice storing apparatus, which is pivotally connected to the second end of the central segment, opposite the first end (block 1005). The first loose fiber storage segment is folded to a closed position that extends over the central segment (block 1010). The second loose fiber storage segment is folded to a closed position extending over the center segment (block 1015). In some embodiments, storing the loop of the first plurality of fibers in block 1000 may include twisting the first plurality of fibers to form a loop with a position of the crossing location close to a midpoint of the connection between the first segment of fibers. loose fiber storage and the central segment. Storing the loop of the second plurality of fibers in block 1005 may similarly include twisting a second plurality of fibers to form the loop, with a position of the crossing location close to the midpoint of the connection between the second storage segment. of loose fiber and the central segment. Storing the respective loops of the pluralities of fibers may also include: placing a first segment of the fibers in a first loose fiber guide member, in the respective loose fiber storage segments and a second segment of the plurality of fibers in a second loose fiber guide member, in the respective loose fiber storage segments.

The operations related to accessing a fiber stored in an apparatus for storing optical fiber splices, which were described with reference to Fig. 10, will now be described with reference to Fig. 1 1 for some embodiments of the present invention. More particularly, the operations illustrated in FIG. 1 1 generally relate to the coupling of a fiber of a first plurality of fibers, to a fiber selected from a second plurality of fibers, to form a splice between them. As illustrated in the embodiments of Fig. 11, the operations are started by moving the first and second loose fiber storage elements to their open position (block 1 100). A loose fiber section is removed from one of the plurality of fibers, from the loose fiber guide members in the first storage element. loose fiber (block 1 105). Note that operations related to the separation of one of the fibers may include: separating the entire loop, including all fibers, of the first loose fiber storage element. A loose fiber section of the corresponding selected fiber of the second plurality of fibers is removed from the loose fiber guide members in the second loose fiber storage member (block 1 1 10). As described with reference to block 1 105, the entire fiber loop in the second loose fiber guide member can be pulled out during the operations of the block 1 1 10. The ends of the separate stretches of the loose fiber of the fibers of the first and second pluralities of fibers are tied or spliced to form the splice between them (block 1 1 1 5). The splice formed in the block 1 1 1 5 can be placed in a splice receiving member, in the central segment, in the block 1 1 1 5. The section taken from the loose fiber of the selected fiber of the first plurality of fibers and / or the entire first plurality of fibers is returned to the loop of the first plurality of fibers (block 1 1 20). Similarly, the selected fiber, or the plurality of the second plurality of fibers, are returned to form a loop of the second plurality of fibers (block 1 125). The first loose fiber storage segment is folded to the closed position extending over the center segment (block 1 1 30). The second loose fiber storage segment is folded to the closed position which extends over the central segment (block 1 1 53). The apparatus for storing optical fiber splices (splice tray) according to some embodiments of the present invention, can be used in enclosed spaces, cabinets, pedestals, boxes, shelves and the like. Some embodiments of the present invention provide a triply hinged, transparent (or opaque) splice tray that automatically stores the loose fiber required to splice fiber optic cables. In some embodiments of the present invention, the fiber entry and exit locations and the mounting legs of the tray, which extend between them, may allow the tray to pivot out of a housing, before being unfolded. Some embodiments of the present invention may combine the convenience of accessing a large splice tray, such as a FOSC D tray, obtainable from Tyco Electronics Corporation, with the benefits of storing small trays, such as a FIST SOAS SE tray, obtainable from Tyco Electronics Some embodiments of the present invention may provide for the use of smaller fiber envelopes, and the use of technicians with less experience in the field. The foregoing is illustrative of the present invention and should not be considered as a limitation to it. Although a few exemplary embodiments of this invention have been described, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that many modifications to the exemplary embodiments are possible., without departing materially from the novel teachings or from the advantages of this invention. Accordingly, it is intended that all such modifications be included within the scope of the present invention, as defined in the claims. In the claims, the media clauses plus function are intended to cover the structures described herein, when they perform the function explained, and not only the structural equivalents, but also the equivalent structures. Therefore, it should be understood that the foregoing is illustrative of the present invention and that it should not be considered limited to the specific modalities described, and that modifications to the described modalities, as well as other modalities, are intended to be included within the scope of the invention. scope of the appended claims. The invention is defined by means of the following claims, the equivalents of the claims being included therein.

Claims (24)

1 . An apparatus for storing optical fiber splices, comprising: a central segment, which defines a splice chamber, configured to receive a plurality of fiber optic splices; a first loose fiber storage segment, pivotally connected to a first end of the central segment and having an open position extending from the first end away from the central segment, and a closed position extending over the central segment; a first hinge, which pivotally connects the first loose fiber storage segment with the central segment; a second loose fiber storage segment, pivotally connected to a second end of the central segment, opposite the first end; the second loose fiber storage segment having an open position, extending from the second end away from the central segment, and a closed position extending over the central segment; a second hinge, which pivotally connects the second loose fiber storage segment with the central segment; a first plurality of loose fiber guide members in the first loose fiber storage segment, configured to receive and retain a first optical fiber loop; a second plurality of loose fiber guide members in the second loose fiber storage segment, configured to receive and retain a second loop of optical fibers; and a first fiber guide member, a second fiber guide member, a third fiber guide member and a fourth fiber guide member in the center segment, in the splice chamber; wherein the first fiber guide member and a member of the first plurality of loose fiber guide members define a first fiber path extending from the central segment to the first loose fiber storage segment; the second fiber guide member and a member of the second plurality of loose fiber guide members define a second fiber path extending from the central segment to the second fiber storage segment; the third fiber guide member and a second member of the first plurality of loose fiber guide members define a third fiber path extending from the central segment to the first loose fiber storage segment; and the fourth fiber guide member and a second member of the second plurality of loose fiber guide members define a fourth fiber path extending from the central segment to the second loose fiber storage segment. The apparatus for storing optical fiber splices according to claim 2, wherein the first fiber guide member comprises a fiber inlet to the splice chamber; and the second fiber guide member comprises a fiber outlet to the splice chamber.

3. The fiber optic splicing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein an intersection of the first and third fiber paths defines a first fiber crossing site, close to an intermediate portion of the first end, for limiting the flexing of the optical fibers that extend along the first and third fiber paths, when the first loose fiber storage segment is moved from its open position to its closed position; and the second and fourth fiber paths define a second fiber crossing site,

• close to an intermediate portion of the second end, to limit the bending of the optical fibers that extend along the second and fourth fiber paths, when the second loose fiber storage segment moves from its open position to its closed position. The apparatus for storing optical fiber splices according to claim 3, wherein the third fiber guide member and the fourth fiber guide member further comprise a splice receiving member.

5. The apparatus for storing optical fiber splices according to claim 3, wherein each of the first and second members of the first plurality of loose fiber guide members, and of the first and second members of the second plurality of loose fiber guide members comprises an opposite pair of guiding members.

The apparatus for mailing fiber optic splicers according to claim 3, further comprising a member mounting the storage apparatus, at a third end of the central segment; the third end extending from the first end to the second end; the member mounting the storage apparatus being configured to allow the apparatus for storing fiber optic splices to be pivotally mounted in a shell.

7. The apparatus for storing optical fiber splices according to claim 6, wherein the first fiber guide member in the central segment comprises a fi ber inlet to the splice chamber in the third end of the central segment.; and wherein the second fiber guiding member in the central segment comprises a fiber outlet to the junction chamber at the third end of the central segment; and wherein the mounting member of the storage apparatus is located between the fiber entry and the fiber exit.

The apparatus for storing optical fiber splices according to claim 1, wherein the central segment, the first loose fiber storage segment and the second loose fiber storage segment consist of polycarbonate.

The apparatus for storing optical fiber splices according to claim 1, wherein the first and second hinges are live hinges; and where the central segment, the first loose fiber storage segment and the second loose fiber storage segment consist of polypropylene (PP).

10. The fiber optic splicing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the apparatus for storing optical fiber splices comprises a splice tray. eleven .

The fiber optic splicing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, when the first and second fiber storage segments are in their closed position, the second loose fiber storage segment extends over the first segment. loose fiber storage.

12. The apparatus for storing optical fiber splices according to claim 4, further comprising: a first plurality of optical fibers extending along the first fiber path and the third fiber path, and looping at the first loose fiber storage segment, so that the first plurality of optical fibers crosses itself close to the first fiber crossing site; and a second plurality of optical fibers extending along the second fiber path and the fourth fiber path, and looping into the second loose fiber storage segment, so that the second plurality of optical fibers it crosses itself next to the second fiber crossing site.

The apparatus for storing optical fiber splices according to claim 12, wherein the fibers of the first plurality of optical fibers are spliced with the corresponding fibers of the second plurality of optical fibers to define the plurality of fiber splices optics.

The apparatus for storing optical fiber splices according to claim 12, wherein the first plurality of optical fibers is releasably retained with a loop thereon in the first loose fiber storage segment, by the first and the second members of the first plurality of loose fiber guide members; and wherein the second plurality of optical fibers is releasably retained with a loop thereon, in the second loose fiber storage segment, by the first and second members of the second plurality of loose fiber guide members.

The apparatus for storing optical fiber splices according to claim 12, wherein the sites of the first fiber crossing point and the second fiber crossing point are selected to provide a minimum bending radius for the first and the second plurality of optical fibers, when the first and second loose fiber storage segments are in their closed position.

16. The apparatus for storing optical fiber splices according to claim 1, wherein the first and / or the second loose fiber storage segments comprise an integrated hinge cover extending over the central segment.

1 7. A triple tray for fiber splicing, comprising: a central segment, defining a splice chamber, configured to receive a plurality of fiber optic splices; a first loose fiber storage segment, pivotally connected to a first end of the central segment, and having an open position extending from the first end, away from the central segment, and a position extending over the central segment; a second loose fiber storage segment, connected, to a second end of the central segment, opposite the first end; the second loose fiber storage segment having an open position extending from the second end away from the central segment, and a closed position extending over the central segment; legs mounting the tray, extending from a third end of the central segment; the third end extending from the first end to the second end; the legs that mount the tray being configured to allow the splice tray to be pivotally mounted in a shell; a fiber inlet to the splice chamber, at the third end of the central segment, between the legs that mount the tray and the second end; a fiber outlet to the splice chamber at the third end of the central segment, between the legs that mount the tray and the first end; a first and a second loose fiber guide members in the first loose fiber storage segment, configured to receive and retain a fiber optic loop; the fiber entry and the first loose fiber guide member defining a first fiber path extending from the central segment to the first loose fiber storage segment; a third and a fourth loose fiber guide members in the second loose fiber storage segment, configured to receive and retain an optical fiber loop; the fiber outlet and the third loose fiber guide member defining a second fiber path extending from the central segment to the second loose fiber storage segment; and a splice receiving member in the center segment; wherein the splice receiving member and the second loose fiber guide member define a third fiber path extending from the central segment to the first loose fiber storage segment; and wherein the splice receiving member and the fourth loose fiber guide member define a fourth fiber path extending from the central segment to the second loose fiber storage segment; defining an intersection of the first and third fiber paths a first fiber crossing site, close to an intermediate portion of the first end, to limit the bending of the optical fibers extending along the first and third fiber paths , when the first loose fiber storage segment is moved from its open position to its closed position; and the second and fourth fiber paths defining a second fiber crossing site near an intermediate portion of the second end, to limit the bending of the optical fibers extending along the second and fourth fiber paths, when moves the second loose fiber storage segment between its open position and its closed position.

18. A method for storing loose fiber in an apparatus for storing optical fiber splices; the method comprising: storing a loop of a first plurality of fibers in a first loose fiber storage segment of the splice storing apparatus, pivotally connected at a first end of a central segment of the apparatus for storing splices; the first plurality of fibers continuously extending from the central segment and back to the central segment, without any interruption therein; storing a loop of a second plurality of fibers in a second loose fiber storage segment of the splice storing apparatus, pivotally connected to a second end of the central segment, opposite the first end; the second plurality of fibers extending continuously from the central segment and back to the central segment, without any interruption therein; folding the first loose fiber storage segment to a closed position extending over the center segment; and folding the second loose fiber storage segment to a closed position extending over the central segment.

The method according to claim 18, wherein storing the loop of the first plurality of fibers includes: twisting the first plurality of fibers to form the loop, with a fiber crossing site located near a midpoint of the connection between the first fiber storage segment and the central segment; and wherein storing the loop of the second plurality of fibers includes twisting the second plurality of fibers to form the loop, with a fiber crossing site located near a midpoint of the connection between the second loose fiber storage segment and the central segment.

The method according to claim 1, wherein storing the loop of the first plurality of fibers includes: locating a first segment of the first plurality of fibers in a first loose fiber guide member in the first segment of loose fiber storage, and a second segment of the first plurality of fibers in a second loose fiber guide member in the first loose fiber storage segment; and where it stores the loop of the second plurality of fibers includes placing a first segment of the second plurality of fibers in a first loose fiber guide member in the second loose fiber storage segment, and a second segment of the second plurality of fibers. fibers in a second loose fiber guide member in the second loose fiber storage segment. twenty-one .

The method according to claim 20, further comprising: coupling a fiber of the first plurality of fibers with a fiber selected from the second plurality of fibers to form a splice therebetween; and placing the splice in a splice receiving member in the center segment.

22. The method according to claim 21, wherein coupling a fiber of the first plurality of fibers comprises: moving the first and second loose fiber storage elements to their open position; removing a loose fiber section from the fiber of the first plurality of fibers, from the first and second loose fiber guide members, into the first loose fiber storage element; removing a loose fiber section from the selected fiber of the second plurality of fibers, from the first and second loose fiber guide members, into the second loose fiber storage member; and splicing the ends of the loosely woven fiber stretches of the first plurality of fibers and the selected fiber of the second plurality of fibers, to form the splice therebetween.

23. The method according to claim 22, wherein the step of splicing the ends of the extruded sections is followed by: re-storing the extruded section of loose fiber fiber of the first plurality of fibers, in the loop of the first plurality of fibers; re-storing the loose fiber-pulled section of the fiber of the second plurality of fibers, in the loop of the second plurality of fibers; folding the first loose fiber storage segment to the closed position extending over the central segment; and folding the second loose fiber storage segment to the closed position extending over the center segment. The method according to claim 23, wherein: removing the loose fiber section of the fiber from the plurality of fibers includes removing the loop from the first plurality of fibers of the first loose fiber storage element; removing the loose fiber section of the selected fiber from the second plurality of fibers includes: removing the loop from the second plurality of fibers from the second loose fiber storage element; re-storing the loose fiber-pulled stretch of the fiber of the first plurality of fibers, in the loop of the first plurality of fibers, includes re-stowing the loop of the first fiber plurality in the first fiber storage segment. loose and re-storing the stretch taken from the loose fiber of the selected fiber of the second plurality of fibers includes: re-stowing the loop of the second plurality of fibers in the second loose fiber storage segment.