MXPA06000591A - Junction box housings for surface inlaid fibre optic network installations - Google Patents

Abstract

A system for protecting buried optic fibre nodes which permits surface inlay installation of cable without the need to expose free ends of the cable for threading through any apertures, includes a protective housing (10) composed of spaced apart panels (14,16) which define an interior space. The panels open to expose the interior for installation of a length of cable (50) therein. An insert (30) fits within the space, which includes a channel (38) which is exposed when the panels (14,16) open for insertion of a cable. The insert includes a void (32) to receive a cable junction box (34). A removable protective outer casing may be provided, either in the form of a pair of outer walls with a removable cap or base, or a can-like container having a removable top and two or more opposed slots communicating with the upper rim of the container. The housing fits within the container, with the cable entering and exiting through the slots, which also permit a saw cut to pass through the slots to facilitate installation of the system. The system also includes a pre-assembled cable network including nodes, cable and housings that may be buried within trenches cut into a surface.

Description

CONNECTION BOX ACCOMMODATIONS FOR OPTICAL FIBER OPTIC NETWORK INSTALLATIONS FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to buried fiber optic networks that are installed within surfaces, such as city streets, lawns, etc.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Fiber optic networks could include multiple "nodes", which could comprise a cable splice, spare cable circuits or both. For the purposes of this specification and the patent claims, a "node" means a portion of a cable network consisting of either a cable splice or one or more cable circuits (in order to supply a cable length). that could be pulled for a future expansion of the system, repairs, or similar) or both of the circuits and a splice. It is desirable to provide a system that allows an uncut length of cable to be buried or embedded from the surface without a cut. For this purpose, the network components, and in particular the components provided in the cable nodes, must be adapted for installation embedded in surfaces without or with a minimum need to thread a free end of the cable through any component. Repairs and future expansion require convenient access for additional lengths of cable, which it is preferred that could be provided through the construction in the reserve cable circuits of the system in order to minimize the cable splice requirement as The need for additional cable is generated. However, cable circuits can be difficult to form and hold in place during and after the installation of the system, since the fiber optic cable is usually relatively rigid and maintains a " tendency to regain its primitive form "and therefore, often resists being formed in strong circuits and keeping these circuits in place during burial. Another requirement in this system is that the nodes (which could include a delicate cable splicing equipment) are protected against damage. It is desirable to provide a convenient means for installing and protecting one or more cable circuits and, optionally, a junction box. Ideally, the protection is given against compression or crushing, as well as, against moisture, while allowing a quick and simple installation of the circuits and / or junction box within a narrow ditch. In the prior patent application of the present inventors (Canadian Published Application No. 2, 337, 284), a rigid connection box is described around which additional cable circuits could be formed. A rigid optional frame is provided to hold both the junction box and several cable circuits. The junction box and the optional frame could be buried in a system node. The present invention relates to an improved modular system for securing either the cable circuits or a junction box, or both, for burial as part of the fiber optic cable network. Preferably, the net is buried within a narrow slot-like trench that could be cut into a hard surface such as the pavement or a smooth surface such as turf. A cable system installed within a soft surface such as turf is commonly placed in a trench that could in some way be wider and deeper compared to a hard surface such as asphalt or other pavement; It is easier to dig into a smooth surface and the deeper placement of the fiber optic cable is desirable to avoid crushing or distortion, for example, when the equipment is rolled onto the surface.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to provide protection housings to protect components of the optical fiber system in system nodes that allow the embedded installation of the cable on surfaces. The node could comprise a cable splice and / or one or more cable circuits. A further object is to provide improved protection for buried system nodes under hard surfaces such as the pavement or within a smooth surface such as turf. In one aspect, the invention relates to a module or unit for housing a "node" of an optical fiber network. The module includes a receptacle capable of being opened that retains and protects a cable connection box and / or a cable circuit. The housing comprises separate panels that define an interior space. The panels open to expose the interior space. An insert is placed inside the interior space, such as a removable foam insert. The panels open like a book to receive the cable length between the panels. The panels are rigid or semi-rigid, which means that they have sufficient stiffness to provide resistance against crushing when the housing is buried. The insert includes at least one open channel on its upper surface for receiving one or more cable circuits without threading the free end of the cable, namely, by pressing the length of cable into the channel from the exposed surface of the insert. The insert with the cable installed in the channel could then be placed inside the housing and the combination is then buried below the surface in a network installation. The insert also includes a receptacle for the admission and retention of a junction box. The channel includes curved or loop regions which retain the cable in a sinuous path within the channel and which prevent slippage or displacement of the cable through the friction clutch of the cable within the channels. The channel arrangement could include a segment that extends generally around the periphery of the insert to hold one or more cable circuits. The channel communicates with the outside of the housing, for example, through holes in the end walls of the housing, so that the cable could exit and enter the housing from the cable network. Several channels could be provided in order to provide options for cable placement, depending on the type of connection box used and other system needs. The housing includes peripheral side walls that separate the panels. One of the side walls is hinged in a panel, so that the panel forms a cover that can be opened for access to the interior of the housing. The housing opens to allow access to the insert, so that an uncut length of cable could be placed inside the channel without having to damage the cable and thread the free end of the cable through the housing. In a further aspect, a rigid outer shell or envelope surrounds, at least partially, the housing for additional crush resistance, for example, for use in installations within a smooth surface such as turf. Preferably, the cover has a rectangular shape with open ends, a pair of side walls, a base and a removable cover, wherein the housing could be inserted into the cover when the cover is temporarily removed, without having to cut the cover. cable. The invention also relates to a rigid member for independent installation within a surface, in a position above the inner housing in order to protect the housing from damage. It is intended that the member be installed within a narrow slot or cut channel on a hard surface such as the pavement. The member could be an inverted elongate channel, and preferably, includes at least one relief or protrusion projecting outward from its side wall for the clutch with the surrounding hard surface.

In a further aspect, the invention relates to a system for the installation of a cable node and a cable circuit and / or associated junction box within a hollow hole made within a surface, so that the surface cuts for The installation of the cables could be done after the protective node housing has been installed inside the surface. This provides an efficient means to install a cable network, and is of particular value in an urban facility where a prize is placed to be able to carry out the road work quickly. In this aspect, the system includes a hollow, rigid and elongated outer cover or a node protector having at least two opposite slot holes within its interior for cable entry and exit. Preferably, the system also includes an interior housing that is placed within the node shield. The interior housing is pressurized inside the outer cover. The inner housing comprises at least two and preferably three open-top flat receptacles joined together through a flexible core for folding the receptacles together in a book-like manner. Each of the receptacles comprises a floor and side walls that define the interior space. One of the receptacles includes a space for the reception of a cable connection box, while a second, and optionally a third receptacle, is located for the admission of at least one cable circuit within the interior space. Preferably, the outer node protector includes a removable cover and a base with a drain hole. Preferably, the node protector is substantially cylindrical for insertion into a cylindrical hole. The outer shield of the node comprises a plurality of opposed slots open in its upper ring. The slots serve two functions: they allow the cable to be inserted inside the cover through the slots, without requiring the cable to be damaged and threaded through a hole, and also allow the use of an installation method in which the node protector is installed before the cable cuts are made on the surface; Once the node protector is installed in this way, the street cuts are made with a roughing saw that passes directly through the slots. In this aspect of the invention, a cable network is installed by initially forming cylindrical holes within the surface for the node protectors at predetermined node positions, followed by the installation of the node protectors, such that the opposite slots line up with the desired superficial cuts. The surface cuts are then made with a cutting tool such as a roughing saw. Because the slots of the node protectors align with the cuts, the cutting tool (such as the saw) can pass directly through the slots within the node protectors. Next, the cables are installed, along with any of the associated cable circuits and the junction boxes are located inside the node protectors. Then, the node protectors are plugged and the surface is restored. An additional feature of this aspect of the invention is that all or essentially all stages of the process are performed with a "surface buried" mode, so that the cable is not required to be damaged except in the junction boxes although they could be put all the other components. In a further aspect, the invention comprises a cable network including a series previously assembled for the installation of surface buried within a surface. In this aspect, the invention comprises a trunk or main cable line with a plurality of secondary lines that are derived from the trunk line in intervals. On each connection or splice, a connection box is provided which is placed inside the inner housing of the type described above. Each secondary line could end in a cable end connector for connection with a reception cable in a residence, office, or the like. The assembly could be previously elaborated and verified in a distant position and could be tested for the increase of efficiency and reliability of the system. Then, the installation could be placed through pre-drilled holes and by installing cable node protectors in selected node positions, cutting the cable ditches between the nodes and towards the cable terminals (for example, residences, etc.). .) and installing the previously elaborated network of cable within the network of ditches and channels. This installation could be carried out in its entirety as a surface buried system without cable cuts or threading of the required free end. The address references are employed throughout the present specification and claims. It is not intended that these address references limit the scope of the invention but are simply for convenience of description. In general, terms such as "upper" and "lower" are used with reference to the devices described herein in their normal installed position, that is, in a position oriented in a generally vertical direction. References to "left" and "right" are also selected for convenience of the description since the invention is not limited in this respect, as well as with terms such as "wall", "floor", and so on. It will also be noted that the invention could be installed in a horizontal position, for example, if the cable network included a portion fit within a wall or other vertical surface.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Figure 1 is a perspective view of a protective inner housing according to the present invention, in the open position. Figure 2 is a perspective view, as in Figure 1, showing the inner housing cover in a partially closed position. Figure 3 (a) is a plan view of the interior housing, with the cover removed for clarity to show a cable connection box and the cable installed inside the housing. Figure 3 (b) is a view as in Figure 3 (a), showing a removable foam core in position within the housing, and without the cable or junction box installed therein. Figure 4 is a sectional view taken along line 1A of Figure 3 (a), with the cover in the closed position. Figure 5 is a perspective view of an outer housing, which is intended to be used in particular on soft surfaces, in accordance with the present invention. Figure 6 is a front elevational view of the outer housing of Figure 5. Figure 7 is a front elevational view of a side wall portion of the outer housing of Figure 5. Figure 8 is a perspective view of the housing exterior with a section cut in order to reveal the interior elements in their installed positions. Figure 9 is a perspective view of a protective cap according to the present invention, before its installation within a hard surface such as asphalt, with the cut section of the asphalt shown below the lid. Figure 10 is a further perspective view of an end region of the lid as shown in Figure 9. Figure 11 is a further perspective view of the end of the protective cap installed within the hard surface such as asphalt . Figure 12 is a perspective view of the cover according to a further embodiment of the invention, which is installed within a pavement surface. Figure 13 is a further perspective view of the embodiment of Figure 12, showing a similar installation in a sidewalk trim. Figure 14 is an exploded perspective view of a cover according to the embodiment of Figure 12. Figure 15 is a plan view of the cover base of the above embodiment. Figure 16 is a plan view above the cover of the previous embodiment, showing the removable cover in place. Figure 17 is a perspective view of the outer cover of the previous embodiment of Figure 12, showing the cap displaced in some way from the cover. Figure 18 is a perspective view showing the inner housing in the open position, according to a further embodiment of the invention. Figure 19 is a further perspective view of the inner housing according to the embodiment of Figure 18. Figure 20 is a schematic view of a previously assembled cable network according to the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE MODALITIES A first embodiment of the inner protection housing 10 is shown in Figures 1-4. For reasons of ease of reference and illustration, Figures 1 and 2 illustrate the housing 10 in a horizontal orientation. In use, the housing would normally be located in a vertical orientation for placement within a narrow vertical slot within a hard surface. However, it is also contemplated that the housing 10 could be installed in the horizontal orientation of Figures 1 and 2, for example, if the installation slot were cut in a horizontal direction within a wall. The housing 10 includes a liner or outer cover 12 made from a rigid or semi-rigid plastic sheet material comprising either a flat sheet or a sheet that is corrugated or with ridges that provide additional strength. The sheet material is folded, formed or otherwise manufactured in the desired configuration of open ended box shape. The liner or cover is defined, when closed, through four walls and the opposite open ends 21. The walls consist of the upper and lower flat panels 14, 16 separated through a narrow rear side wall 18. Each of the panels 14, 16 terminate along their edges in the overlying closure flaps 20, 22, which when closed form the fourth wall, namely, a front side wall opposite the rear side wall 18. The description provided herein is generally with reference to the housing in the horizontal position of Figure 1. The fins 20, 22 could be held together simply by burying the housing within a trench. However, if a closure or fastener of any convenient type such as Velero ™ is desired, an arrangement of spring or tongue and groove closures on the overlapping fins could be provided to hold them together. A removable foam insert 30 is provided, which substantially fills the interior of the liner 12. Preferably, the insert 30 comprises an open or closed cell foam such as PVC, polyethylene, polyurethane, with a closed cell foam that is preferred due to its generally larger rigidity and its crushing strength and water displacement capacity. A central void 32 within the foam insert 30 provides a receptacle for the admission of a junction box 34, as seen in Figure 3 (a). The central vacuum 32 has a size and shape which provide a snap-fit for a selected junction box 34 which is located within the vacuum during installation. As seen in Figure 3 (b), a removable foam core 36 is provided, which is placed within the vacuum 32 and which could be left in place if a junction box was not installed within the housing or if not was removed for the installation of a junction box 34, as shown in Figure 3 (a). The foam insert 30 includes a series of interconnecting channels 37 for receiving the fiber optic cable 29, as seen in Figure 3 (a). A generally rectangular central circuit channel 38 surrounds the vacuum 32 for the reception of one or more cable circuits 50, which could be used for the future expansion of the system. The number of circuits that could be received within this channel 38 will vary depending on the depth of the channel (which in turn depends on the thickness of the foam insert) and the width of the channel). Preferably, the channel 38 has a depth and width sufficient to receive approximately between 1 and 10 cable circuits, although it is also contemplated that additional circuits could be retained. The foam insert 30 also includes the channels 40 on either side of the center circuit 38 for retaining one or more cables 50 in various positions leading to the inputs and outputs of the junction box 34. The input and output channels 42 they are provided in the foam core adjacent to any end of the housing in communication with the outside of the housing for reception of the input cable at either end of the housing, as shown in Figures 3 (a) and 3 (b) . The channels 40 and 42 communicate with the central circuit channel 38 and the central vacuum 32, whereby the cable 29 could be located in any number of possible configurations around the circuit 38 and within the channels 40, while they communicate, optionally, with a junction box 34 installed inside the vacuum 32. The channels 42 are tapered outward in their mouths in order to accommodate the cables entering the housing in a range of angles. The channels 40 include a region for retaining the cable in a sinuous path between the outside of the housing and the junction box located in the central position 34. The sinuous path is useful for reducing the slippage of the cable, when a voltage is applied. The sliding or sliding of the cable is reduced by ensuring a reasonably press fit of the cable within the channels 42, optionally aided by the selection of a foam material for the insert 30 which has a reasonably high coefficient of friction with a conventional cable jacket (or a selected liner). There are any number of possible sinuous trajectories that the channels 37, 40 and 42 could take in order to firmly hold the cable 29 inside the housing 10 without slipping. In the example illustrated in this document, channels 42 include an x-shaped intersection region surrounded by a small circuit that requires wires 29 to follow a generally zigzag path. It will be appreciated that in essence any arrangement of the channels that allows the user to insert the cable into a sufficiently sinuous path will serve the desired function, and the channel arrangement described and illustrated herein is simply presented by way of a non-limiting example. With reference to Figures 5-7, the outer cover 60 is illustrated, which is intended to surround and protect the housing 10, in particular for installation within a smooth surface such as the lawn. The cover 60 of Figures 5-7 comprises an elongated rigid open-ended structure consisting of opposed side panels 62, a base 64 and the cover 65. The base 64 comprises an extruded elongated structure having a pair of spaced rails 66 which they extend in the length of the base 63. Each side panel 62 includes an inwardly facing foot 68 having a channel 70 recessed in its bottom surface. The panels 62 could be assembled to the base 64 by sliding the panel 62 over the rail 66 extending upwardly from the base, with the channel 70 and the rail 66 engaging in a forced or press fit. The base 64 further includes the lower side walls extending upwardly 72 along the opposite elongated sides thereof, which overlap the side panels 62 in order to provide additional support and water resistance. Each of the upper edges of the side panels 62 includes a bulb-like extension extending upwardly 76 for receiving the lid 65. The lid 65 includes a downwardly facing channel 78 adjacent to each elongated side of the lid. same, with extension 76 and channel 78 that are fixed to each other. The lid 65 and the base 64 could comprise identical members oriented in an opposite face-to-face direction. A press fit between the extension 76 and the channel 78 ensures that the cover 65 will not be released inadvertently and improves the water resistance of the splice. The dimensions of the cover 60 allow the housing 10 to be snapped into its interior space defined by the side walls, the base and the lid, as seen in Figure 8. A cable protector 300 could also be located inside. of the cover 60 for the protection of the cable 50. The protector 300 has been described in Copending Canadian Application No. 2, 337, 284 of the present inventors, which is incorporated herein by reference. The protector 300 extends partly towards the cover 60 and protrudes from an open end thereof. In use, the preferred installation procedure for the cover 60 comprises the formation of a channel within a smooth surface, which locates a suitable length of cable 50 within the channel and preferably, then encloses the cable within the cable protector 300. Next, the housing 10 is installed in a position surrounding a portion of the cable 50. This region of cable could be formed in a circuit and, optionally, if two or more separate cables are joined in this position, a box of connections 34 is installed in this position which is then enclosed within the inner housing 10. Optionally, the fins 20, 22 of the housing 10 are fastened together; followed by the assembly of the cover 60 around the housing 10, that is, by assembling the side panels 62 at the base 64, then sliding the cover 10 into the open interior of the cover 60 from the open upper end of the cover 60, followed by the assembly of the lid 65 on the cover 60. The cover 60 with the housing 10 enclosed therein, is then buried within the open channel, which is subsequently filled with soil to restore the surface. A further aspect of the invention comprises a protection cap 100 which is illustrated in Figures 9-11. The cover 100 serves primarily to protect the housing 10 when the housing 10 is installed within a channel in the absence of the cover 60. For example, when the housing 10 is installed within the cut 113 within a pavement surface 111, the Protective cap 100 protects against crushing the housing when a heavy vehicle passes over the restored surface of the pavement. Figures 9 and 10 illustrate a primary cut of the pavement 112 for the reception of a length of cable 50 and a cut of the enlarged node 113 for the reception of a connection box and the associated housing 10. The cover 100 comprises an elongated member of channel shape comprising a rigid material such as stainless steel. When installed, the channel generally opens downward to receive the housing 10. The cover 100 could be manufactured by forming a steel sheet by bending it in the proper configuration. The inner channel provides a press fit within its interior for the housing 10. By way of a non-limiting example, the cover 100 could have an interior width of approximately 12 to 25 mm, for example, approximately 17 mm in internal diameter for positioning on the housing 10 around the same width. The channel is defined by the opposite vertical walls 102. By way of a non-limiting example, the height of the wall could be between 10 and 33 mm, with a preferred height that is approximately 17 mm. However, it will be understood that these dimensions simply represent a convenient modality; the lid 100 could comprise any of the suitable dimensions. The cover 100 includes protruding side tabs 104. The tabs extend laterally outwardly from the outer surface of the walls, for the support of the cover 100 when installed within a hard surface such as the pavement. Preferably, the tabs 104, or projections, are provided on both walls, extending laterally outwardly therefrom, adjacent to the opposite ends of the layer 100. Additional projections 104 could be provided for additional support , in particular if the lid was elongated. The lid could be installed inside a hard surface through the following means. Following the installation of the protective housing 10 within a substantially vertical wall channel cut into a surface, the depressions 110 are cut into the surface for receiving the projections 104. This could be done by locating the positions where the projections 104 they will make contact with the surface of the pavement (for example, by contacting the pavement with the cover 100 and observing the positions of the projections 104). Next, a sampling bit is used to cut the depressions 110 within the hard surface, up to a selected depth, for the reception and support of the projections 104. The depth of the cuts made by the drill bit Samples will determine the installed depth of the lid 100. The lid 100 could partially cover the inner housing 10 or could be completely separated above the housing 10. If desired, the upper surface of the lid 100 could be substantially flush with the surface of pavement, whereby, a convenient means is provided for locating and obtaining access to the protection housing 10 and the cable node that accompanies it. Alternatively, the cover 100 could be recessed below the pavement surface, thereby providing a space, including that it be sufficiently recessed to allow the renewal of the pavement tread layer in order to restore the surface of the pavement. pavement. Subsequent to the location of the cover 100, and the overlay node, it could easily be achieved if the cover were constituted by a ferrous substance or other metal that could be perceived by a metal detector. A further aspect of the invention is illustrated in Figures 12-19. This aspect comprises a cover for a cable splice suitable for installation within a circular hole 224 cut into a surface. Preferably, the hole is generally vertical and for convenience of description, vertical orientation is currently described, although it will be noted that any orientation will be accommodated depending on the arrangement of the surface. Also, although the hole 224 and the associated cover 200 are described as having a circular shape, this is a simple configuration to form, any suitable cross-sectional configuration of the hole and cover will suffice. The cover system comprises a node protector that includes an elongated rigid outer cover 200, which receives within an interior space an inner removable housing 230. The outer cover 200 has a substantially cylindrical shape, although it will be noted that the selection of an Cylindrical shape is essentially arbitrary and is intended for convenience of placement within a central core hole in the pavement or other surface. The outer cover 200, seen in particular in Figures 14-17, comprises a steel cast cover having a base 202, the side wall 204 and the removable cover 206. The base 202 has a hole 210 therein It serves as a drainage hole. The side wall 204 has a generally curved outer surface 209 and a flat inner surface 211 for snap-locking the inner housing 230 within the interior of the cover, as will be described below. When assembled, the inner surfaces 211 of the cover 200 form four opposing flat surfaces which press-hold the inner cable housing 230, which is described below. The base 202 and the side wall 204 are fabricated or cast as a single piece or alternatively, the base is retained in the panels 203 with mechanical fastening means. The side wall 204 includes the recessed regions 212 for weight reduction. The side wall 204 also includes four vertical slots with the top open 214 for access to the interior of the cover 200, as will be described in greater detail below. The slots 214 are spaced the same distance around the cover wall 204 and extend and open towards the upper hoop 216 of the cover partly downwardly of the cover wall. An even number of slots 214 is provided in opposite relation, so that each slot 214 directly opposes another slot 214, so that it can pass a saw through the opposite slots while moving in a straight line. The removable cap 206 and the top ring 216 of the cover body include the coupling lobes 218, 220 to provide a relatively forced or press fit of the cap 206 on the cover body. The cover 206 could be retained in the cover body through any convenient fastening means such as the screws 222. It will be noted that although the outer cover 200 is made from cast iron in the manner described at this point, any material Suitable to be rigid and resistant could be used including a suitable plastic that could be molded into it or in a similar configuration. The cover 200 could also be manufactured from a sheet of metal. The outer cover 200 could be installed inside a circular hole 224 cut into a surface, as shown in Figures 12 and 13. Normally, this hole will be hollowed at the point of intersection between two or more channels or cable ditches 226, which are preferably cut into the surface after the cover 200 is installed. this way, the lid 206 is removed and the channels 226 are then cut by a roughing saw or other cutting tool which is also directly moved through the slots 214, so that the saw enters a first slot and comes out in the slot that is directly opposite it, after which the length of the cable is inserted into the resulting continuous channel. It will be noted that the cover 200 could be installed at any convenient node point in the network that does not need to represent an intersection point. Also, the channels 226 could be cut before the installation of the cover 200. The mode described in this document is intended to be used at the point of intersection between two of the channels 226, which are located at a generally straight angle to each other, although they could be equally well used in a node that is located along a single cable and not at the point of intersection. For the purpose of providing a two-way intersection, the outer cover 200 includes four separate slots at the same distance 214 as described above. However, it will be noted that the cover 200 could be adapted for installation at the points of intersection of more than two channels, or the channels that are at other different right angles, by providing a corresponding number and location of the slots within the outer cover. The inner housing 230 (seen in greater detail in Figures 18-19) is configured for snapping between the flat inner surfaces 211 of the outer cover 200. The inner housing 230 is illustrated more particularly in Figures 18 and 19. The inner housing 230 has a generally rectangular shape and is comprised of three generally flat, shallow open-topped receptacles 232, 234 and 236 which are folded together in a book-like manner to form a similar structure. to a rectangular box in which the open upper parts of the receptacle are covered. Each receptacle is in itself of a generally box-like shape comprising a flat floor 237, a side wall 239 extending substantially around the floor perimeter and an open or substantially open top. The floor 237 and the side walls 239 define an open interior space for receiving the fiber optic cable and related components as will be described below. The first, second and third receptacles 232, 234 and 236 are joined together through the flexible webs 238, which when folded together form opposite spines of the cover 230, which could then be introduced into the outer cover in the position folded The first and second receptacles 232, 234 are essentially identical and each includes the bushings 242 for the cable clearance. The third receptacle 236 includes a vacuum 243 for the reception of a cable junction box 34. The junction box is illustrated in Figure 19. It will be noted that any junction box of a suitable generally rectangular shape will be sufficient, with the condition which is of the correct size for forced or pressurized placement within the vacuum 243. The side walls of receptacle 239 include the spacings 241 for communication of the cable between the receptacles, so that a single length of cable could pass without the cut or splice between the three receptacles. The separations 241 are oriented to each other through the webs 238, so that when the inner housing is closed the separations would be covered in their entirety through the flexible webs 238. The side walls 239 of at least one of the receptacles also they include the slots 243 to allow the cable to enter and exit the interior of the housing 230. The slots 243 open toward the upper surface of the side walls 239, so that the length of the cable can be installed within the interior of the housing 230 when they open without having to cut and thread the cable through any of the holes. The exposed upper edges of the side walls 239 include a series of inwardly oriented fins 240 that partially cover the open top portions of the first and second receptacles 232 and 234. The fins 240 are for retaining the cable 50 within the inside of each panel section. The fins could be aligned on the respective panels and could include a smooth exposed surface, so that when the inner housing 230 is in the closed position, the aligned fins contact each other. The fins 240 only partially cover the corresponding receptacles to allow access to the interior of the receptacle for handling the cable within the interior thereof. The fins 240 expose the slots 243. Also, the exposed upper surfaces of the side walls contact each other where they are not capped by the fins 240. A pair of bushings 242 is mounted on the floor of each of the first and second. receptacles 232, 234. Each bushing 242 includes the cross-section slots 244 for receiving an optical fiber cable 50 therein, so that the cable 50 can be wound around one or both of the hubs 242 within each receptacle to take the slack in the cable and to reduce cable slip. The cable entry and exit ports 250, 252 within the panel side walls allow the cable to enter the interior of the panel. It will be noted that an uncut length of cable 50 could be installed within the interior of the component without requiring cable cutting and threading through the component. Rather, the cable 50 could be installed at any point along the length of the cable. In use, the node shield 200 is installed within a previously cut hole within a surface as previously described at a node position of the system, such that the upper ring of the node shield is adjacent to the surface, preferably, it is slightly below the surface although it is also possible at or slightly above the surface. The cable channels 226 are cut on the surface in communication with the interior of the node protector 200. Next, the cable 50 is located within the channel or channels, in the process of which the cable is inserted into the node protector 200. If the node consisted of a cable splice, a junction box 34 would be provided, and all necessary cable splices or unions would be formed in association with the junction box. The junction box 34, with the cables 50 extending outward, is then placed in the void 245 of the third receptacle 236. If an excess length of cable were provided, this excess could be wound around one or more of the cables. bushings 242. The three receptacles 232-236 of the inner housing 230 are then folded together like a book to form a rectangular member containing the cable connection box 34, and optionally, the length of the wound cable 50 with the housing 230 The housing 230 could be provided with a clamp 250 to clamp the retaining components 232-236 together in a forced manner. Then, the housing 230 is inserted into the outer cover 200, so that the flat sides of the interior of the cover contact the corresponding flat sides of the closed housing 230 for forced or press fit. Next, the cap 206 is replaced and once the cables are repositioned within the channel or channels 226 the surface would be restored. Preferably, the node shield has been sunk into the surface to a depth sufficient to allow the installed cap 206 to be essentially flush with the surface and to be exposed or otherwise visible to allow easy access to the node afterwards. of the installation. A still further aspect of the invention is shown in Figure 20, which comprises a pre-assembled cable network system for installation within a surface by means of a burial or surface incrustation method. In this regard, a cable network system is pre-assembled and verified at a remote location such as a factory that assembles and verifies these systems en masse. This provides economy of scale and at least possibly a more accurate assembly and verification of the system that would be possible in the place. The pre-assembled system comprises a main or trunk line of cable 50 with a plurality of secondary or branch lines 260 extending from the trunk or main line at intervals that could be regular or based on a predetermined network requirement. Each splice point between the main and secondary lines comprises a cable node and is formed with a cable connection box 34 of the type described above. The cable circuits 262 are provided on the trunk or main line 50 between the nodes, with the cable circuits comprising a predetermined length corresponding, generally, with the expected distance between nodes. For most urban or suburban facilities, the distance between nodes is expected to represent a common construction separation of approximately 15.24-30.48 meters (50-100 feet). However, it will be clear that any selected separation could be provided. It is also expected that a surplus or excess of cable will be provided between the nodes and for each secondary line. A second cable circuit 264 is provided within each secondary line. Each secondary line 260 terminates at its free end in a conventional cable connector 266 for connection with a cable within the construction or residence. A plurality of interior housings 230 is provided in order to receive the connection boxes 34, with the connection boxes that are previously installed inside these housings 230. In this way, the system is provided to an installer with all the nodes that are pre-installed inside the housings 230 and all the cable including the cable circuits 262 and 264 are provided in a way that allows them to be unwound without becoming entangled. The installation of this previously assembled system essentially is in the same way as described above for the embodiment of Figures 12-19. In particular, the node locations are determined on the installation side and the node holes are then drilled or dug into the surface at these positions. The node protectors 200 are then installed inside these holes. The trunk cable channels are then cut between the nodes (they are spliced through the slots 241 as described above) and the secondary channels are also cut between the residences or buildings so that they are connected and the corresponding nodes. A node could also be installed in advance of a connection that is made in a building, in which case the circuit 264 is simply stored within the node for future use. The cable network including the previously installed connection boxes is then unwound and the cable and housings 230 are installed through the surface incrustation. Then, the housings 200 are covered with covers 206 and the surface is restored. The present invention has been described in part by means of a detailed description of the modalities thereof. The invention is not limited in scope to the detailed description provided in this specification. Rather, the full scope of the invention is defined by the entirety of this specification including the claims and it will be understood that the scope of these claims extends beyond the detailed description in this document and covers numerous variations and deviations from the embodiments described.

Claims (16)

1. CLAIMS 1. A protective housing for a fiber optic cable and a cable connection box, characterized in that it comprises separate opposed panels defining an interior space and opening to expose the interior space, at least one side wall between the panels, and an optionally removable insert that substantially fills the interior space, the insert includes at least one channel, one end of which opens towards the outside of the housing when closed, the channel also opens towards the surface of the insert for the introduction of cable in the same when the housing is open, the channel defines a sinuous path for receiving and holding the cable and a vacuum inside the insert for the retention of a box of cable connections in communication with the cable. The housing according to claim 1, further characterized in that it comprises a removable outer cover surrounding by. at least partially the housing to achieve an additional crush resistance. The housing according to claim 2, characterized in that the outer cover comprises a pair of opposite opposed walls, a base and a removable cover defining an interior space with the ends open to receive the housing. 4. The housing according to claim 3, characterized in that the walls are removable from the base, the base comprises a pair of separate vertical rails and each of the walls includes a channel that hangs downwards for coupling with a corresponding rail. The housing according to claim 1, further characterized in that it comprises a rigid protective cover for its independent installation within a surface in a position above the housing, the cover includes at least one projection protruding outwards from of the cover for your clutch with the hard surface. 6. A housing for a cable connection box for use in an optical fiber network, characterized in that it comprises at least two substantially flat open top receptacles that are joined together through a first flexible core for the folding of the receptacles together like a book with the open lower parts that are covered when closed, each of the receptacles includes a floor and side walls that define an interior space, the side walls include holes for the passage of the cable between the interior spaces, the first of the receptacles includes a space for receiving a cable connection box and the second of the receptacles is located to receive at least one cable circuit within the interior space, the housing further includes at least one input port and of exit to receive, in sealed form, the fiber optic cable inside the same. The housing according to claim 6, further characterized in that it includes at least one bushing protruding from the floor of the second receptacle into the interior thereof for the reception of a cable circuit within the interior space of the second panel. The housing according to claim 6, characterized in that the cable entry and exit ports comprise at least one slot within the side wall that opens towards the exposed upper surface of the side wall when the housing is opened for introduction of a length of uncut wire inside the housing. The housing according to claim 6, further characterized in that it comprises a third receptacle connected to the second receptacle through a second of the flexible souls, the first, second and third receptacles being substantially identical in plan configuration, First, second and third receptacles are positioned to fold together in a manner similar to a book, the third receptacle comprises additional means for receiving cable for the admission of at least one additional cable circuit inside the interior space thereof. The housing according to claim 9, characterized in that the first and second flexible webs form opposite outer side walls of the housing when closed. The housing according to any of claims 6-10, further characterized in that it comprises a hollow outer cover having an open upper part, an upper ring and at least two opposed slits opening towards the ring for cable reception inside. of the inside of the cover and a removable cover that covers the open top, the slots are positioned for the passage of a channel cutting tool through the slots in a single movement while cutting a cable channel through the surface, the outer cover is configured to receive the housing within the interior thereof. The housing according to claim 11, characterized in that the outer cover is substantially cylindrical for insertion into a cylindrical hole. The housing according to claim 11, characterized in that the outer cover includes a plurality of substantially flat inner opposed faces for retaining the inner housing. 14. A method of fabricating installation within a surface of a pre-assembled cable system includes the assembly steps at a location remote from the system, characterized in that it comprises: a trunk cable line, a plurality of secondary cable lines that are extend at intervals from the trunk line, and cable connection box housings at each intersection between the secondary and trunk lines; determine the locations of the node and cut the holes with the surface at the node locations; providing and installing an outer cover with the top open inside each of the holes, the covers include opposite slots opening to the open top portions of the covers; cut a network of channels that connect the nodes, the channels are aligned with the slots of the housings; and installing the cables and the housings of the junction box inside the channels and covers, by means of the superficial buried. The method according to claim 14, characterized in that it comprises the additional step of cutting the channels within the surface for the secondary lines that extend from at least one of the nodes. The method according to claim 14, characterized in that the housing of the junction box is as defined in any of claims 1-10.