WO2021195371A1

WO2021195371A1 - Stackable fiber optic splice holder

Info

Publication number: WO2021195371A1
Application number: PCT/US2021/024139
Authority: WO
Inventors: Craig Dwayne Ray; Iuliu Cosmin Gordea
Original assignee: All Systems Broadband, Inc.
Priority date: 2020-03-27
Filing date: 2021-03-25
Publication date: 2021-09-30

Abstract

A fiber optic splice holder (100 includes first and second sidewalls (102) that are laterally spaced apart from one another; a floor section (104) adjoining lower ends of the first and second sidewalls (102) and extending between the first and second sidewalls (102); first and second stacking retention features (112) that are disposed on the first and second sidewalls (102), respectively; wherein the first and second stacking retention features (112) form a pair of opposing surfaces that are above upper edge sides of the first and second sidewalls (102), and wherein the pair of opposing surfaces are separated from one another by a distance that is correlated to a base width of the fiber optic splice holder (100), the base width being a separation distance between outer surfaces of the first and second sidewalls (102) that face away from one another.

Description

STACKABLE FIBER OPTIC SPLICE HOLDER

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention generally relates to telecommunication hardware, and particularly relates to devices for mounting and storing splices of fiber optic cable.

BACKGROUND

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

Fiber optic networks include fiber optic connection boxes to store and secure splices of optical fiber and associated lengths of fiber optic cable. These fiber optic connection boxes are often provided at a network termination point. For example, a fiber optic connection box may be provided at a network termination point between service-provider network cabling and customer- side fiber optic cabling.

Modem network bandwidth and connectivity demands for fiber optic networks result in increasing number of fiber optic cables and/or increasing number of optical fibers per cable at a given termination point. As a result, installers may find it difficult or impossible to effectuate all necessary splices and store each splice securely within a standard sized fiber optic connection box. SUMMARY

A fiber optic splice holder is disclosed. According to an embodiment, the fiber optic splice holder includes first and second sidewalls that are laterally spaced apart from one another, a floor section adjoining lower ends of the first and second sidewalls and extending between the first and second sidewalls, and first and second stacking retention features that are disposed the first and second sidewalls, respectively. The first and second stacking retention features form a pair of opposing surfaces that are above the upper edge sides of the first and second sidewalls. The pair of opposing surfaces are separated from one another by a distance that is correlated to a base width of the fiber optic splice holder, the base width being a separation distance between outer surfaces of the first and second sidewalls that face away from one another.

According to another embodiment, the fiber optic splice holder includes first and second sidewalls that are laterally spaced apart from one another, a floor section adjoining lower ends of the first and second sidewalls and extending between the first and second sidewalls, a notch formed in lower corners of the first and second sidewalls, and an angled protrusion disposed at upper corners of the first and second sidewalls, wherein the angled protrusion is dimensioned to be inserted in the notch.

A fiber optic assembly is disclosed. According to an embodiment, the fiber optic assembly includes first and second fiber optic splice holders, each of the first and second fiber optic splice holders including first and second sidewalls that are laterally spaced apart from one another, a floor section adjoining lower ends of the first and second sidewalls and extending between the first and second sidewalls, and stackability features formed in the first and second sidewalls, the second fiber optic splice holder is stacked on top of the first fiber optic splice holder, and the stackability features of the first fiber optic splice holder interface with the first and second sidewalls of the second fiber optic splice holder such that the second fiber optic splice holder is securely retained against the first fiber optic splice holder.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Figure 1, which includes Figs. 1A, IB, and 1C, depicts a fiber optic splice holder, according to an embodiment. Fig. 1A depicts an isometric view of the fiber optic splice holder; Fig. IB depicts a plan- view view of the fiber optic splice holder; and Fig. 1C depicts a side view of the fiber optic splice holder.

Figure 2 depicts the fiber optic splice holder with an optical splice securely retained by an optical splice holder, according to an embodiment.

Figure 3 depicts an isometric view of multiple fiber optic splice holders stacked on top of one another, according to an embodiment.

Figure 4 depicts a side view of multiple fiber optic splice holders stacked on top of one another, according to an embodiment. Figure 5 depicts an assembly of a fiber optic splice holder retained by a receptacle in a back panel of a telecommunications box, according to an embodiment.

Figure 6 depicts an assembly of a coil of fiber optic cable and multi-tiered stacks that retain splices of optical fiber from the coil, according to an embodiment.

Figure 7 depicts an isometric view of multiple fiber optic splice holders stacked on top of one another, according to an embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION Embodiments of a fiber optic splice holder are described herein. The fiber optic splice holder is a modular tray with optical splice retainers that are designed to securely retain splices of optical fiber. The optical splice retainers are disposed on a floor section of the tray between a pair of opposing outer sidewalls. The outer sidewalls are configured as rails that physically support an identical fiber optic splice holder stacked on top of the fiber optic splice holder.

Advantageously, the fiber optic assembly includes stackability features formed in the outer sidewalls. In the stacked position, the stackability features of the subjacent fiber optic splice holder interface with the outer sidewalls of the superjacent fiber optic splice holder such that the superjacent fiber optic splice holder is securely retained against the subjacent fiber optic splice holder. In this way, the stackability features mechanically couple the fiber optic splice holders together. In an embodiment, the stackability features include a pair of stacking retention features on the outer sidewalls. In the stacked position, inner surfaces of the stacking retention features from the subjacent fiber optic splice holder face the outer sidewalls of the superjacent fiber optic splice holder that rests on the outer sidewalls. In an embodiment, the stackability features include stacking interlock features and corresponding stacking notches on the outer sidewalls. In the stacked position, the stacking interlock features of the subjacent fiber optic splice holder engage with the notches of the superjacent fiber optic splice holder. In an embodiment, the stackability features include a notch formed in lower corners of the outer sidewalls, and an angled protrusion disposed at upper comers of outer sidewalls. In the stacked position, the angled protrusion of the subjacent fiber optic splice holder is inserted in the notch of the superjacent fiber optic splice holder.

Collectively, the stackability features enable an installer to easily create a multi-tiered stack of the fiber optic splice holders that is mechanically stable and positionally aligned. This multi- tiered stack can be employed at fiber optic network splice points, e.g., telecommunications boxes, with advantageous splice density and ease of access to the splices.

Referring to Fig. 1, a fiber optic splice holder 100 is depicted, according to an embodiment. The fiber optic splice holder 100 includes first and second sidewalls 102 that are laterally spaced apart from one another. The first and second sidewalls 102 may be parallel to one another in a first direction (Dl) (shown in Fig. IB) that runs along a length of the sidewalls 102. The fiber optic splice holder 100 additionally includes a floor section 104. The floor section 104 adjoins lower ends of the first and second sidewalls 102 and laterally extends between the first and second sidewalls 102. The fiber optic splice holder 100 includes first and second angled intersections 106 between outer surfaces 108 of the first and second sidewalls 102, respectively, and a lower surface of the floor section 104. The outer surfaces 108 of the first and second sidewalls 102 and the lower surface of the floor section 104 may be substantially planar surfaces. Moreover, the first and second angled intersections 106 may be 90-degree intersections. More generally, the sidewalls 102 and the floor section 104 of the fiber optic splice holder 100 can be arranged in conduit shaped configuration that provides two rails and a floor around an interior volume. Examples of these conduit shaped configurations include U-shapes, C-shapes, etc.

The fiber optic splice holder 100 includes optical splice retainers 110. The optical splice retainers 110 are disposed between the first and second sidewalls 102 and on an upper surface of the floor section 104 that is opposite from the lower surface of the floor section 104. That is, the optical splice retainers 110 are disposed within the three-dimensional volume defined by the first and second sidewalls 102 and the floor section 104.

The fiber optic splice holder 100 additionally includes stacking retention features 112. The stacking retention features 112 are disposed outside of the three-dimensional volume defined by the first and second sidewalls 102 and the floor section 104 and extend above the upper edge sides of the sidewalls 102. In the depicted embodiment, the fiber optic splice holder 100 includes first and second stacking retention features 112 that are disposed on the first and second sidewalls 102, respectively. The first and second stacking retention features 112 each attach to the outer surfaces 108 of the first and second sidewalls 102, respectively, at roughly the lengthwise center of these sidewalls 102. More generally, the number and location of the stacking retention features 112 may vary.

The first and second stacking retention features 112 form a pair of opposing surfaces that are above the upper edge sides of the first and second sidewalls 102. This means that the first stacking retention feature 112 includes an inner surface 114 which protrudes above the upper edge side of the first sidewall 102 and the second stacking retention feature 112 includes an inner surface 114 which protrudes above the upper edge side of the second sidewall 102 and faces the inner surface 114 of the first stacking retention feature 112. According to an embodiment, the first stacking retention feature 112 includes a planar inner surface 114 that is substantially parallel to the outer surface 108 of the first sidewall 102, and the second stacking retention feature 112 includes a planar inner surface 114 that is substantially parallel to the outer surface 108 of the second sidewall 102. In this case, the planar inner surfaces 114 of the first and second stacking retention features 112 form the pair of opposing surfaces.

The opposing surfaces between the first and second stacking retention features 112 are separated from one another by a distance that is correlated to a base width of the fiber optic splice holder 100. The base width of the fiber optic splice holder 100 is a separation distance between the outer surfaces 108 of the first and second sidewalls 102 in a second direction (D2) (shown in Fig. IB) that is perpendicular to the first direction (Dl). Put another way, the base width refers to a maximum displacement of the fiber optic splice holder 100 in a width direction which runs perpendicular to the spaced apart sidewalls 102. As used herein, the term “correlated” encompasses an exact match between the base width and the separation distance, i.e., a 1:1 ratio, and a linear or proportional relationship, e.g., ratio of 1:1.1 or 1:0.9. In either case, the separation distance between the opposing surfaces of the first and second stacking retention features 112 is determined by the base width of the fiber optic splice holder 100. As can be seen in Fig. 1A, the inner surfaces 114 of the first and second stacking retention features 112 are slightly offset from the outer surfaces 108 of the first and second sidewalls 102. Hence, in this embodiment, the correlation is such that the opposing surfaces of the first and second stacking retention features 112 are separated from one another by a distance that is slightly larger than the base width.

The inner surface 114 of the first stacking retention feature 112 forms an angled intersection 116 with the upper edge side of the first sidewall 102, and the inner surface 114 of the second stacking retention feature 112 forms an angled intersection 116 with the upper edge side of the second sidewall 102. These angled intersections 116 occur at the outer surfaces 108 of the first and second sidewalls 102, respectively. These angled intersections 116 may be approximately 90-degree intersections between two planar surfaces.

According to an embodiment, the stacking retention features 112 each include a central opening 118 that is above the upper edge sides of the first and second sidewalls 102, respectively. In the depicted embodiment, the stacking retention features 112 are u-shaped structures, wherein the central opening 118 corresponds to a region that is between the u-shaped structure and the upper edge sides the sidewalls 102. More generally, the central opening 118 can be any perforation that penetrates through an enclosed portion of the stacking retention feature 112. The fiber optic splice holder 100 additionally includes stacking interlock features 120. The stacking interlock features 120 are disposed on upper edge sides of the sidewalls 102. In the depicted embodiment, the stacking interlock features 120 are configured as planar tabs that extend away from the sidewalls 102 of the fiber optic splice holder 100 in opposite direction from one another. Specifically, the fiber optic splice holder 100 includes two planar tabs forming stacking interlock features 120 on the upper edge sides of the first sidewall 102, and two planar tabs forming stacking interlock features 120 on the upper edge sides of the second sidewall 102 that extend away from the interior volume in an opposite direction as the planar tabs on the first sidewall 102.

The fiber optic splice holder 100 additionally includes stacking notches 122. The stacking notches 122 are disposed at lower ends of the sidewalls 102. The stacking notches 122 are dimensioned to insertably receive and retain the stacking interlock features 120, respectively. That is, the stacking notches 122 have an inverse shape as the stacking interlock features 120 such that the stacking interlock features 120 can engage with the stacking notches 122 in an interlocking manner. In the depicted embodiment, the fiber optic splice holder 100 includes two stacking notches 122 that that are disposed at the angled intersection 106 with the first sidewall 102, and two stacking notches 122 that that are disposed at the angled intersection 106 with the second sidewall 102. Each stacking notch 122 is vertically aligned with a corresponding stacking interlock feature 120. As used herein, the term “vertically aligned” means that from a direct plan-view of the fiber optic splice holder 100, the “vertically aligned” features overlap with one another. Hence, the stacking interlock features 120 are directly above the stacking notches 122.

The fiber optic splice holder 100 can be a plastic structure, a metal structure, or may include some combination of both materials. The fiber optic splice holder 100 can be produced from one or more planar sheets of material, i.e., uniform thickness sections of plastic or metal. The features of the fiber optic splice holder 100 described above can be formed in or on these planar sheets by techniques including stamping, punching, fusing, etc. In addition, or in the alternative, an injection molding process may be used to form at least some of the features of the fiber optic splice holder 100. For example, an injected molded structure including a planar and continuous floor section 104 and the first and second sidewalls 102 may be formed by injection molding. Subsequently, the optical splice retainers 110 may be formed by punching perforations in the continuous floor section 104.

Referring to Fig. 2, the fiber optic splice holder 100 is shown with one of the optical splice retainers 110 retaining a splice between optical fibers 124. In the depicted embodiment, the splice between optical fibers includes a splice protection sleeve 126, which is a standardized component that surrounds and protects the optical fibers 124. The optical splice retainers 110 are implemented as pairs of spaced apart tabs that extend upward form the floor section 104. These tabs are configured to retain a particular fiber optic splice. For example, in the case that the splice protection sleeve 126 has a diameter of 23 mm, the planar tabs forming the optical splice retainers 110 are spaced apart by about the same or slightly less distance, e.g., about 22 mm to provide retention force. More generally, the size, number and arrangement of the optical splice retainers 110 may vary. The optical splice retainers 110 may have any configuration that securely retains a splice between optical fibers 124 itself or a standardized splice component that surrounds the splice, such as the splice protection sleeve 126. According to an embodiment, upper ends of the optical splice retainers 110 that are opposite from the floor section 104 are below the upper edge sides of the sidewalls 102. In this way, the optical splice retainers 110 and the splice between optical fibers do not interfere with the stacking of the fiber optic splice holders 100 as described below. According to an embodiment, inner surfaces 125 of different sections of the sidewalls 102 are offset from one another. More particularly, the inner surfaces 125 of sections of the sidewalls 102 that include the stacking retention feature 112 are offset in the second direction D2 from inner surfaces 125 of sections of the sidewalls 102 that include the stacking interlock feature 120. That is, the inner surfaces 125 of the sidewalls 102 that include the stacking retention feature 112 are slightly further away from the central volume than the inner surfaces 125 of the sidewalls 102 that include the stacking interlock feature 120. This configuration accommodates a very large splice protection sleeve 126 in the position closest to the sidewall 102 such that the very large splice protection sleeve 126 contacts the sections of the sidewalls 102 that include the stacking interlock feature 120 and not the sections of the sidewalls 102 that include the stacking retention feature 112. In this way, the very large splice protection sleeve 126 does not interfere with the stackability of the assembly by placing outward pressure on the stacking retention feature 112.

Referring to Fig. 3, a stacked arrangement of multiple fiber optic splice holders 100 is depicted. The assembly includes three of the fiber optic splice holders 100 as described with reference to Fig. 1. The fiber optic splice holders 100 are stacked on top of one another such that the floor section 104 of the superjacent fiber optic splice holder 100 rests on the upper edge sides of the first and second sidewalls 102 from the subjacent fiber optic splice holder 100.

The stacking retention features 112 advantageously allow for the superjacent fiber optic splice holder 100 to be placed on top of the subjacent fiber optic splice holder 100 with the two items being aligned with one another in the second direction (D2), i.e., the direction perpendicular to the length of the sidewalls 102. The angled intersections 116 between the inner surfaces 114 of the stacking retention features 112 and the respective upper edge sides of the first and second sidewalls 102 form edges that aid in the alignment of the superjacent fiber optic splice holder 100. The inner surfaces 114 of the first and second stacking retention features 112 of the subjacent fiber optic splice holder 100 form mutually opposing planes which face the outer surface 108 of the sidewalls 102 of the superjacent fiber optic splice holder 100, and thus prevent movement of the subjacent fiber optic splice holder 100 in the stacked position. These mutually opposing planes prevent the superjacent fiber optic splice holder 100 from significantly moving in the second direction (D2). In the context of this discussion, a movement is “significant” if the superjacent fiber optic splice holder 100 is permitted to slide enough distance in the second direction (D2) such that one of the angled intersections 106 slips past the upper edge side of one of the sidewalls 102. Put another way, the mutually opposing planes maintain the superjacent fiber optic splice holder 100 on the upper edge sides of both sidewalls 102 from the subjacent fiber optic splice holder 100.

This configuration can be achieved by selecting the separation distance between the inner surfaces 114 of the first and second stacking retention features 112 to be less than the base width of the fiber optic splice holder 100 plus the thickness of one of the sidewalls 102.

By arranging the inner surfaces 114 of the stacking retention features 112 to be parallel with the outer surfaces 108 of the sidewalls 102, the interfacing surfaces of the subjacent and superjacent fiber optic splice holder 100 align with one another. In this way, the inner surfaces 114 of the stacking retention features 112 from the subjacent fiber optic splice holder 100 can become flush with the outer surface 108 of the superjacent fiber optic splice holder 100, thus providing stable retention force. In an embodiment, the fiber optic splice holder 100 is configured such that one or both of the inner surfaces 114 of the stacking retention features 112 from a subjacent fiber optic splice holder 100 are spaced apart from the outer surfaces 108 of the superjacent fiber optic splice holder 100. That is, there is adequate spacing between the opposing surfaces of the stacking retention features 112 to allow for a slight degree of interplay of the superjacent fiber optic splice holder 100 in the second direction D2. This configuration can be obtained by correlating the separation distance between mutually opposing inner surfaces 114 of the stacking retention features 112 to be greater than base width of the fiber optic splice holder 100, e.g., about 102% the base width of the fiber optic splice holder 100.

In another embodiment, the fiber optic splice holder 100 is configured such that both of the inner surfaces 114 of the stacking retention features 112 from a subjacent fiber optic splice holder 100 are flush against the outer surfaces 108 of the superjacent fiber optic splice holder 100 in the stacked position. That is, the spacing between the opposing surfaces of the stacking retention features 112 is such that there is no interplay of the superjacent fiber optic splice holder 100 in the second direction (D2). Moreover, this spacing may be selected to provide retention force against both sidewalls 102. This configuration can be obtained by correlating the separation distance between mutually opposing inner surfaces 114 of the stacking retention features 112 to be less than or equal to the base width of the fiber optic splice holder 100, e.g., between about 98% and 100% of the base width of the fiber optic splice holder 100.

In an embodiment, the stacking retention features 112 are slightly elastic with respect to the second direction D2. This means that the stacking retention features 112 can be flexed outward (e.g., by 5 to 10 degrees) by moving upper ends of the stacking retention features 112 away from the outer sidewalls 102 of the fiber optic splice holder 100 through the application of force. When this force is removed, the stacking retention features 112 return to their original position, e.g., at or close to parallel to the outer sidewalls. The degree of force necessary to achieve this flexing is ordinary human hand force. By configuring the stacking retention features 112 to have this elasticity, attachment and detachment of the superjacent fiber optic splice holder 100 is easier to perform by the installer. The flexing of the stacking retention features 112 from the subjacent fiber optic splice holder 100 allows for easy tilting and separation of the superjacent fiber optic splice holder 100. One advantage of the central opening 118 in the stacking retention feature is that is provides increased elasticity for a given material in this regard, in comparison to a continuous structure.

Referring to Fig. 4, a stacked arrangement of multiple fiber optic splice holders 100 is depicted. The depicted assembly includes two of the fiber optic splice holders 100 as described with reference to Fig. 1 from a side-view perspective.

The stacking interlock features 120 advantageously allow for the superjacent fiber optic splice holder 100 to be placed on top of the subjacent fiber optic splice holder 100 with the two items being aligned with one another in the first direction (Dl). In the stacked arrangement, the stacking interlock features 120 of the subjacent fiber optic splice holder 100 are engaged with the stacking notches 122 of the superjacent fiber optic splice holder 100. The engagement between these features prevents slippage of the superjacent fiber optic splice holder 100 across the upper edge sides of the sidewalls 102 of the subjacent fiber optic splice holder 100 in the first direction (Dl). By configuring the fiber optic splice holders 100 such that the stacking notches 122 are vertically aligned with the stacking interlock features 120 of the same fiber optic splice holder 100, direct vertical alignment of multiple fiber optic splice holders 100 is possible. That is, an installer can easily create a multi-tiered arrangement wherein the fiber optic splice holders 100 are aligned with one another.

One advantage of the stacking interlock features 120 being configured as planar tabs and correspondingly shaped notches is that the superjacent fiber optic splice holders 100 can readily pivot about the subjacent fiber optic splice holders 100. This tilting aids in the attachment and detachment of the superjacent fiber optic splice holder 100. More generally, the stacking interlock features 120 and corresponding stacking notches 122 can have any geometric relationship that retains the superjacent fiber optic splice holder 100 when resting on the subjacent fiber optic splice holder 100. Referring to Fig. 5, one of the fiber optic splice holders 100 is incorporated into an assembly that includes a telecommunication box 200. The telecommunication box 200 is an enclosure that stores and protects multiple splices of fiber optic cable and associated lengths of cabling. The telecommunication box 200 includes a planar rear panel 202 and planar outer walls 204 that adjoin the rear panel 202 and surround an interior volume. The telecommunication box 200 may further include a front door (not shown) that that interfaces with the outer walls 204 to provide a secure enclosed space for the storage of fiber optic equipment therein. The telecommunication box 200 additionally includes a pair of curve shaped bend controls 206 anchored to the rear panel 202. The telecommunication box 200 additionally includes a number of receptacles 208 in the back panel 202 disposed between the bend controls 206. In the depicted embodiment, the telecommunication box 200 includes three of these receptacles 208. More generally, the number of receptacles may vary, e.g., one, two, three, four, etc.

As shown in Fig. 5, a fiber optic splice holder 100 is inserted in one of the receptacles 208. The receptacles 208 are dimensioned to receive and securely retain the fiber optic splice holder 100. That is, the receptacles 208 have the same basic geometry as the base portion of the fiber optic splice holder 100 such that lateral movement of the fiber optic splice holder 100 is substantially prevented when the fiber optic splice holder 100 is inserted the receptacle 208.

Referring to Fig. 6, an assembly that includes a telecommunication box 200, multiple fiber optic splice holders 100, and a coil 300 of fiber optic cable is depicted. The coil 300 of fiber optic cable is wrapped around the around the curve shaped bend controls 206. The fiber optic splice holders 100 are arranged in multi-tiered stacks in a similar manner as described with reference to Figs. 3-4, with the lowermost one of the fiber optic splice holders 100 for each stack being inserted in one of the receptacles 208 in a similar manner as described with reference to Figs 5. According to an embodiment, the fiber optic cable of the coil 300 is a so-called Tollable ribbon fiber optic cable. Rollable ribbon fiber optic cable is a particular kind of high-density cable that includes multiple optical fibers. A single rollable ribbon fiber optic cable can have optical fiber counts of 864, 1152, 1728, 3456, 6912, for example. In rollable ribbon fiber optic cable, the optical fibers rest in a tightly wrapped spiral arrangement. By applying compressive force to the cable, these fibers project out from the spiral, allowing for easy access to each fiber. More generally, the coil 300 can include any of a variety of different cable types. Exemplary cable types include single mode cable, multi-mode cable, indoor-outdoor cable, loose buffer tube cable, and conventional or flat ribbon fiber cable.

In the assembly, splices between the optical fibers from the coil 300 are secured and retained by the optical splice retainers 110 from of the fiber optic splice holders 100. The multi tiered stacks advantageously provide a high-density arrangement wherein fiber optic splice holders 100 that are stacked on top of one another securely retain a larger number of splices in a small volume. An installer can effectuate one or more splices, secure it within the optical splice retainers 110 of one fiber optic splice holder 100, stack another fiber optic splice holder 100 on top, and repeat the process. The open-ended sides of the fiber optic splice holder 100 (i.e., the ends that do not include outer sidewalls 102) permit the optical fibers on either side of the splice to enter and exit each tier. Once all splices are completed and stored, an installer can quickly and easily access an individual splice by disengaging and unstacking the necessary fiber optic splice holders 100. The system thus offers a simple and cost-effective solution for accommodating a high density of optical splices, e.g., from ribbon fiber optic cable and Tollable ribbon fiber optic cable, within a small footprint.

Referring to Fig. 7, a stacked arrangement of multiple fiber optic splice holders 100 is depicted, according to an embodiment. The fiber optic splice holders 100 in the assembly of Fig. 7 are different from the previously disclosed embodiments with respect to the stackability features. In this embodiment, the stackability are features designed to interface with the the inner surfaces 132 of the first and second sidewalls 102 of the subjacent fiber optic splice holder 100. According to an embodiment, the stackability features include a notch 128 disposed at the first and second angled intersections 106 between outer surfaces 108 of the first and second sidewalls 102 and the lower surface of the fiber optic splice holders 100. Additionally, the stackability features include an angled protrusion 130 at an upper intersections between inner surfaces 132 of the first and second sidewalls 102 and the upper edge sides of the of the first and second sidewalls 102. In the stacked arrangement, the notch 128 of the subjacent fiber optic splice holder 100 engages with the angled protrusion 130 of the superjacent fiber optic splice holder 100, thereby mechanically coupling the two fiber optic splice holders 100 together. In the depicted embodiment, the notch 128 and the angled protrusion 130 are arranged to provide a snap-in function. That is, modest mechanical force is required to engage and disengage the angled protrusion 130 of the superjacent fiber optic splice holder 100 with the notch 128 of the subjacent fiber optic splice holder 100, due to the orientation and angle of these features. In this way, a secure interlocking connection can be effectuated. More generally, the notch 128 and the angled protrusion 130 can have any arrangement which provides interlocking and/or retention in the stacked arrangement. The fiber optic splice holder 100 of Fig. 7 may optionally include the stacking retention features 112 and/or the stacking interlock features 120 and stacking notches 122 as previously discussed. Because the embodiment of Fig. 7 includes stackability features that are designed to engage with the inner surfaces 132 of the first and second sidewalls 102 of the subjacent fiber optic splice holders 100, the stacking retention features 112 of the subjacent fiber optic splice holders 100 may be spaced apart from the outer sidewalls 108 of the superjacent fiber optic splice holder 100 in the stacked arrangement. In that case, the stacking retention features 112 may function as a handle for stacking, and as an outer guide to loosely align the stacked fiber optic splice holders 100. In other embodiments, the stacking retention features 112 and/or the stacking interlock features 120 and stacking notches 122 may be omitted in lieu of the notch 128 and angled protrusion 130 system.

The term “substantially” encompasses absolute conformity with a requirement as well as minor deviation from absolute conformity with the requirement due to manufacturing process variations, assembly, and other factors that may cause a deviation from the ideal. For example, typical processing tchniques form parts within a statistical range of acceptable conformance. If the element in question is within this range of acceptable conformance, it is substantially compliant with the property in question.

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

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

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

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A fiber optic splice holder (100), comprising: first and second sidewalls (102) that are laterally spaced apart from one another; a floor section (104) adjoining lower ends of the first and second sidewalls (102) and extending between the first and second sidewalls (102); first and second stacking retention features (112) that are disposed on the first and second sidewalls (102), respectively; wherein the first and second stacking retention features (112) form a pair of opposing surfaces that are above upper edge sides of the first and second sidewalls (102), and wherein the pair of opposing surfaces are separated from one another by a distance that is correlated to a base width of the fiber optic splice holder (100), the base width being a separation distance between outer surfaces of the first and second sidewalls (102) that face away from one another.

2. The fiber optic splice holder (100) of claim 1, wherein the outer surface of the first sidewall (102) forms a first angled intersection (106) with a lower surface of the floor section (104), wherein the outer surface of the second sidewall (102) forms a second angled intersection (106) with the lower surface of the floor section (104), and wherein the outer surfaces of the first and second sidewalls (102) are substantially planar surfaces.

3. The fiber optic splice holder (100) of claim 2, wherein the first stacking retention feature (112) comprises a planar inner surface (114) that is substantially parallel to the outer surface of the first sidewall (102), wherein the second stacking retention feature (112) comprises a planar inner surface (114) that is substantially parallel to the outer surface of the second sidewall (102), and wherein the inner surfaces of the first and second stacking retention features (112) form the pair of opposing surfaces.

4. The fiber optic splice holder (100) of claim 3, wherein the inner surface of the first stacking retention feature (112) forms a third angled intersection (106) with the upper edge side of the first sidewall (102), wherein the inner surface of the second stacking retention feature (112) forms a fourth angled intersections (106) with the upper edge side of the second sidewall (102).

5. The fiber optic splice holder (100) of claim 2, further comprising: first and second stacking interlock features (120) that that are disposed on upper edge sides of the first and second sidewalls (102), respectively; and first and second stacking notches (122) disposed at the first and second angled intersections (106), respectively, wherein the first and second stacking notches (122) are vertically aligned with the first and second stacking interlock features (120), respectively, and wherein the first and second stacking notches (122) are dimensioned to insertably receive and retain the first and second stacking interlock features (120), respectively.

6. The fiber optic splice holder (100) of claim 5, wherein the first stacking interlock feature (120) is a planar tab that is elevated from the upper edge side of the first sidewall (102), and wherein the second stacking interlock feature (120) is a planar tab that is elevated from the upper edge side of the second sidewall (102) and extends in an opposite direction as the first stacking interlock feature (120).

7. The fiber optic splice holder (100) of claim 1, further comprising one or more optical splice retainers (110) disposed between the first and second sidewalls (102) on an upper surface of the floor section (104), wherein upper ends of the one or more optical splice retainers (110) are below the upper edge sides of the first and second sidewalls (102).

8. The fiber optic splice holder (100) of claim 1, wherein the first and second stacking retention features (112) each comprise a central opening that is above the upper edge sides of the first and second sidewalls (102), respectively.

9. A fiber optic splice holder (100), comprising: first and second sidewalls (102) that are laterally spaced apart from one another; a floor section (104) adjoining lower ends of the first and second sidewalls (102) and extending between the first and second sidewalls (102); a notch (128) formed in lower comers of the first and second sidewalls (102), and an angled protrusion (130) disposed at upper corners of the first and second sidewalls (102), wherein the angled protrusion (130) is dimensioned to be inserted in the notch (128).

10. The fiber optic splice holder (100) of claim 9, wherein the lower comers of the first and second sidewalls (102) are between outer surfaces (108) of the first and second sidewalls (102) , respectively, and a lower surface of the floor section (104), and wherein the upper comers of the first and second sidewalls (102) are between inner surfaces (114) of the first and second sidewalls

(102) , respectively, and upper edges sides of the first and second sidewalls (102), respectively.

11. A fiber optic assembly, comprising; first and second fiber optic splice holders (100), each of the first and second fiber optic splice holders (100) comprising: first and second sidewalls (102) that are laterally spaced apart from one another; a floor section (104) adjoining lower ends of the first and second sidewalls (102) and extending between the first and second sidewalls (102); and stackability features formed in the first and second sidewalls (102); wherein the second fiber optic splice holder (100) is stacked on top of the first fiber optic splice holder (100), and wherein the stackability features of the first fiber optic splice holder (100) interface with the first and second sidewalls (102) of the second fiber optic splice holder (100) such that the second fiber optic splice holder (100) is securely retained against the first fiber optic splice holder (100).

12. The fiber optic assembly of claim 11, wherein the stackability features comprise a first stacking retention feature (112) disposed on the first sidewall (102) and a second stacking retention feature (112) disposed on the second sidewall (102), wherein the first and second stacking retention features ( 112) of the first fiber optic splice holder (100) form mutually opposing planes that prevent the second fiber optic splice holder (100) from significantly moving in a direction that is perpendicular to the first and second sidewalls (102).

13. The fiber optic assembly of claim 12, wherein the first and second stacking retention features (112) each comprise a substantially planar inner surface (114), wherein the first and second sidewalls (102) each comprise a substantially planar outer surface (108), and wherein the inner surfaces of the first and second stacking retention features (112) are parallel to the outer surfaces (108) of the first and second sidewalls (102) , respectively.

14. The fiber optic assembly of claim 13, wherein the inner surfaces (114) of the first and second stacking retention features (112) are pressed against the outer surfaces (108) of the first and second sidewalls (102) , respectively.

15. The fiber optic assembly of claim 13, wherein one or both of the inner surfaces (114) of the first and second stacking retention features (112) are spaced apart from the outer surfaces (108) of the first and second sidewalls (102) , respectively.

16. The fiber optic assembly of claim 11, wherein each of the first and second fiber optic splice holders (100) further comprise first and second stacking interlock features (120) that are disposed on upper edge sides of the first and second sidewalls (102), respectively, and first and second stacking notches (122) disposed at first and second angled intersections (106) between the first and second sidewalls (102) and the floor section (104), respectively, and wherein the first and second stacking interlock features (120) of the first fiber optic splice holder (100) are engaged in the first and second stacking notches (122) of the second fiber optic splice holder (100).

17. The fiber optic assembly of claim 11, further comprising a telecommunication box (200) comprising a planar rear panel (202) and a first receptacle (208) in the rear panel (202), and wherein the first fiber optic splice holder (100) is inserted in the first receptacle (208). 18. The fiber optic assembly of claim 17, wherein the telecommunication box (200) further comprises curve shaped bend controls (206) anchored to the rear panel (202) and a coil (300) of fiber optic cable wrapped around the curve shaped bend controls (206), wherein the first and second first and second fiber optic splice holders (100) are disposed within a center of the coil (300), wherein the first and second fiber optic splice holders (100) each comprise one or more optical splice retainers (110) disposed between the first and second sidewalls (102) on an upper surface of the floor section (104), wherein the first and second fiber optic splice holders (100) each securely retain a splice of optical fiber within one of the optical splice retainers (110).

19. The fiber optic assembly of claim 11, wherein the stackability features comprise a notch (128) formed in lower comers of the first and second sidewalls (102), and an angled protrusion

(130) disposed at upper corners of the first and second sidewalls (102), and wherein the angled protrusion (130) of the first fiber optic splice holder (100) is inserted in the notch (128) of the second fiber optic splice holder (100). 20. The fiber optic assembly of claim 19, wherein the lower comers of the first and second sidewalls (102) are between outer surfaces (108) of the first and second sidewalls (102) , respectively, and a lower surface of the floor section (104), and wherein the upper corners of the first and second sidewalls (102) are between inner surfaces (114) of the first and second sidewalls (102) , respectively, and upper edge sides of the first and second sidewalls (102), respectively.