WO2022271821A1 - Tray hinge system - Google Patents

Tray hinge system Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2022271821A1
WO2022271821A1 PCT/US2022/034521 US2022034521W WO2022271821A1 WO 2022271821 A1 WO2022271821 A1 WO 2022271821A1 US 2022034521 W US2022034521 W US 2022034521W WO 2022271821 A1 WO2022271821 A1 WO 2022271821A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
tray
telecommunications
telecommunications tray
trays
tray assembly
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2022/034521
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Bart Claessens
Peter Jozef WAETERSCHOOT
Jiri AMBROZ
Eric Schurmans
Jiri ZAVREL
Shailesh Sadashiv Kesarkar
Original Assignee
Commscope Technologies Llc
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Commscope Technologies Llc filed Critical Commscope Technologies Llc
Priority to EP22829225.6A priority Critical patent/EP4359836A1/en
Publication of WO2022271821A1 publication Critical patent/WO2022271821A1/en

Links

Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G02—OPTICS
    • G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
    • G02B6/00—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings
    • G02B6/44—Mechanical structures for providing tensile strength and external protection for fibres, e.g. optical transmission cables
    • G02B6/4439—Auxiliary devices
    • G02B6/444—Systems or boxes with surplus lengths
    • G02B6/4453—Cassettes
    • G02B6/4454—Cassettes with splices

Definitions

  • a telecommunications tray assembly is disclosed.
  • a telecommunications tray assembly can include a first telecommunications tray including a first connection arrangement; and a second telecommunications tray including a second connection arrangement, the first and second connection arrangements rotatably connecting the first tray to the second tray; wherein the first telecommunications tray can be locked into an open position relative to the second telecommunications tray by laterally displacing the first telecommunications tray with respect to the second telecommunications tray.
  • the first and second telecommunications trays each include the first and second connection arrangements.
  • the first connection arrangement includes one of an opening structure and a pin structure and the second connection arrangement includes the other of the opening structure and the pin structure.
  • the assembly further includes a lock recess on one of the opening structure and the pin structure and a lock protrusion on the other of the opening structure and the pin structure.
  • the lock recess is a recess formed in the opening structure and the lock protrusion is a protrusion extending from the pin structure.
  • the first telecommunications tray is prevented from being laterally displaced into the locked position unless the first telecommunications tray is rotated into the open position.
  • the first and second telecommunications trays are identical.
  • a telecommunications tray can include a first telecommunications tray including a first connection arrangement; a second telecommunications tray including a second connection arrangement, the first and second connection arrangements rotatably connecting the first tray to the second tray; and a lock member slidably mounted to the second telecommunications tray, wherein the lock member is movable to selectively lock the first telecommunications tray into an open position relative to the second telecommunications tray.
  • the first and second telecommunications tray each include the first and second connection arrangements.
  • the first telecommunications tray includes a lock member slidably mounted to the second telecommunications tray.
  • the first and second telecommunications trays are identical.
  • the lock member includes a first stop interacting with a surface of the second telecommunications tray to define an unlocked position of the lock member.
  • the lock member includes a second stop interacting with a surface of the second telecommunications tray to define a locked position of the lock member.
  • the lock member includes a stop interacting with a surface of the second telecommunications tray to define a locked position of the lock member.
  • a telecommunications tray assembly can include a first telecommunications tray including a first connection arrangement having a pin structure; and a second telecommunications tray including a second connection arrangement defining a keyhole shaped opening for receiving the pin structure, the keyhole-shaped opening defining a first opening portion and a second opening portion, the first and second connection arrangements rotatably connecting the first tray to the second tray; wherein the first telecommunications tray can be rotated between open and closed positions with respect to the second telecommunications tray when the pin structure resides within the first opening portion and wherein the first telecommunications tray is held in the open position when the pin structure resides within the second opening portion.
  • the first and second telecommunications tray each include the first and second connection arrangements.
  • the first telecommunications tray includes two first connection arrangements and the second telecommunications tray includes two second connection arrangements.
  • the first and second telecommunications trays are identical.
  • the first telecommunications tray when the first telecommunications tray is held in the open position, the first telecommunications tray is rotated greater than 90 degrees with respect to the second telecommunications tray.
  • the pin structure has a non-round cross-sectional shape.
  • the pin structure has a first pair of flat sides and the second opening portion has a complementarily shaped second pair of flat sides.
  • a telecommunications tray assembly can include a first telecommunications tray including a first connection arrangement and a latch member; and a second telecommunications tray including a second connection arrangement and a catch member, the first and second connection arrangements rotatably connecting the first tray to the second tray; wherein when the first telecommunications tray is rotated into an open position relative to the second telecommunications tray, the latch member engages with the catch member to retain the first telecommunications tray in the open position.
  • the first and second telecommunications trays each include the first and second connection arrangements.
  • the first telecommunications tray includes two first connection arrangements and the second telecommunications tray includes two second connection arrangements.
  • the first telecommunications tray includes a single latch member and the second telecommunications tray includes a single catch member.
  • the latch members and catch members are aligned along longitudinal axes of the first and second telecommunications trays.
  • the first telecommunications tray includes a catch member and the second telecommunications tray includes a latch member.
  • the first and second telecommunications trays are identical.
  • a telecommunications tray assembly comprising: a first telecommunications tray including a first connection arrangement and a first contact surface supported by a free standing sidewall extending between cable routing apertures; and a second telecommunications tray including a second connection arrangement and a second contact surface supported by a free-standing sidewall extending between cable routing apertures, the first and second connection arrangements rotatably connecting the first tray to the second tray; wherein when the first telecommunications tray is rotated into an open position relative to the second telecommunications tray, the first contact surface interferes with and rotates past the second contact surface to provide a resisting force against moving the first telecommunications tray back into the closed position.
  • the first and second telecommunications trays each include the first and second connection arrangements.
  • the first telecommunications tray includes two first connection arrangements and the second telecommunications tray includes two second connection arrangements.
  • the first and second telecommunications trays are identical.
  • the first contact surface engages against a third contact surface of the second telecommunications tray to provide a stop to prevent further opening of the first telecommunications tray.
  • the third contact surface is parallel to the free-standing sidewall of the second telecommunications tray.
  • the second contact surface is sloped with respect to a top surface of the second telecommunications tray.
  • Figure 1 is a first perspective view of a schematic representation of a first example of a tray assembly having features in accordance with the present disclosure.
  • Figure 2 is a second perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 1.
  • Figure 3 is a first side view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 1.
  • Figure 4 is a second side view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 1.
  • Figure 5 is a partial perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 1.
  • Figure 6 is a first perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 1, with the tray assembly in an intermediate open position.
  • Figure 7 is a second perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 6.
  • Figure 8 is a partial perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 6.
  • Figure 9 is a partial perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 7.
  • Figure 10 is a first perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 1, with the tray assembly in a fully open position.
  • Figure 11 is a second perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 10.
  • Figure 12 is a partial perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 10.
  • Figure 13 is a partial perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 11.
  • Figure 14 is a first perspective view of a tray of the tray assembly shown in Figure 11.
  • Figure 15 is a second perspective view of the tray of Figure 14.
  • Figure 16 is a top view of the tray of Figure 14.
  • Figure 17 is a bottom view of the tray of Figure 14.
  • Figure 18 is a first side view of the tray of Figure 14.
  • Figure 19 is a second side view of the tray of Figure 14.
  • Figure 20 is a third side view of the tray of Figure 14.
  • Figure 21 is a fourth side view of the tray of Figure 14.
  • Figure 22 is a first perspective view of a schematic representation of a second example of a tray assembly having features in accordance with the present disclosure.
  • Figure 23 is a second perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 22.
  • Figure 24 is a first side view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 22.
  • Figure 25 is a second side view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 22.
  • Figure 26 is a partial perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 22.
  • Figure 27 is a first perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 22, with the tray assembly in an intermediate open position.
  • Figure 28 is a second perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 27.
  • Figure 29 is a partial perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 27.
  • Figure 30 is a partial perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 28.
  • Figure 31 is a first perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 22, with the tray assembly in a fully open position.
  • Figure 32 is a second perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 31.
  • Figure 33 is a partial perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 31.
  • Figure 34 is a partial perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 32.
  • Figure 35 is a first perspective view of a tray of the tray assembly shown in Figure 32.
  • Figure 36 is a second perspective view of the tray of Figure 35.
  • Figure 37 is a top view of the tray of Figure 35.
  • Figure 38 is a bottom view of the tray of Figure 35.
  • Figure 39 is a first side view of the tray of Figure 35.
  • Figure 40 is a second side view of the tray of Figure 35.
  • Figure 41 is a third side view of the tray of Figure 35.
  • Figure 42 is a fourth side view of the tray of Figure 35.
  • Figure 43 is a first perspective view of a lock member of the tray assembly shown in Figure 22.
  • Figure 44 is a second perspective view of the lock member of Figure 43.
  • Figure 45 is a top view of the lock member of Figure 43.
  • Figure 46 is a first side view of the lock member of Figure 44.
  • Figure 47 is a second side view of the lock member of Figure 44.
  • Figure 48 is a first perspective view of a schematic representation of a third example of a tray assembly having features in accordance with the present disclosure.
  • Figure 49 is a second perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 48.
  • Figure 50 is a first side view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 48.
  • Figure 51 is a second side view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 48.
  • Figure 52 is a partial perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 48.
  • Figure 53 is a first perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 48, with the tray assembly in an intermediate open position.
  • Figure 54 is a second perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 53.
  • Figure 55 is a partial perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 53.
  • Figure 56 is a partial perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 54.
  • Figure 57 is a first perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 48, with the tray assembly in a fully open position.
  • Figure 58 is a second perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 57.
  • Figure 59 is a partial perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 57.
  • Figure 60 is a partial perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 58.
  • Figure 61 is a first perspective view of a tray of the tray assembly shown in Figure 48.
  • Figure 62 is a second perspective view of the tray of Figure 61.
  • Figure 63 is a top view of the tray of Figure 61.
  • Figure 64 is a bottom view of the tray of Figure 61.
  • Figure 65 is a first side view of the tray of Figure 61.
  • Figure 66 is a second side view of the tray of Figure 61.
  • Figure 67 is a third side view of the tray of Figure 61.
  • Figure 68 is a fourth side view of the tray of Figure 61.
  • Figure 68A is an enlarged, partial view of the tray of Figure 68.
  • Figure 69 is a first perspective view of a schematic representation of a fourth example of a tray assembly having features in accordance with the present disclosure.
  • Figure 70 is a second perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 69.
  • Figure 71 is a first side view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 69.
  • Figure 72 is a second side view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 69.
  • Figure 73 is a partial perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 69.
  • Figure 74 is another partial perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 69.
  • Figure 75 is a first perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 69, with the tray assembly in an open position.
  • Figure 76 is a second perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 75.
  • Figure 77 is a partial perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 75.
  • Figure 78 is a partial perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 76.
  • Figure 79 is a cross-sectional side view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 75.
  • Figure 80 is a partial cross-sectional side view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 79.
  • Figure 81 is a first perspective view of a tray of the tray assembly shown in Figure 69.
  • Figure 82 is a second perspective view of the tray of Figure 81.
  • Figure 83 is a top view of the tray of Figure 81.
  • Figure 84 is a bottom view of the tray of Figure 81.
  • Figure 85 is a first side view of the tray of Figure 81.
  • Figure 86 is a second side view of the tray of Figure 81.
  • Figure 87 is a third side view of the tray of Figure 81.
  • Figure 88 is a fourth side view of the tray of Figure 81.
  • Figure 89 is a partial cross-sectional side view of the tray of Figure 81.
  • Figure 90 is a first perspective view of a schematic representation of a fifth example of a tray assembly having features in accordance with the present disclosure.
  • Figure 91 is a second perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 90.
  • Figure 92 is a first side view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 90.
  • Figure 93 is a second side view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 90.
  • Figure 94 is a partial perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 90.
  • Figure 95 is another partial perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 90.
  • Figure 96 is a first perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 90, with the tray assembly in an open position.
  • Figure 97 is a second perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 96.
  • Figure 98 is a partial perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 96.
  • Figure 99 is another partial perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 96.
  • Figure 100 is a cross-sectional side view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 96.
  • Figure 101 is a partial cross-sectional side view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 100.
  • Figure 102 is a first perspective view of a tray of the tray assembly shown in Figure 90.
  • Figure 103 is a second perspective view of the tray of Figure 102.
  • Figure 104 is a top view of the tray of Figure 102.
  • Figure 105 is a bottom view of the tray of Figure 102.
  • Figure 106 is a first side view of the tray of Figure 102.
  • Figure 107 is a second side view of the tray of Figure 102.
  • Figure 108 is a third side view of the tray of Figure 102.
  • Figure 109 is a fourth side view of the tray of Figure 102.
  • Figure 109a is an enlarged partial view of the tray shown in Figure 109.
  • Figures 110a to 1 lOg show the tray assembly of Figure 90 with the top tray rotated progressively open.
  • tray assemblies 100 can be oriented as shown in the drawings, many other orientations are possible, and the directional language used herein should not be taken to limit the disclosure.
  • the disclosed trays can be provided with a main body portion defining a base surface or end wall from which perimeter sidewalls extend. Together, the end wall and sidewalls define an interior storage space for housing telecommunications cables and other related components.
  • the perimeter sidewalls are provided with openings, for example at a rear or hinge side, to facilitate routing of cables into and out of the interior storage space. In the examples shown, four such openings are provided, although more or fewer may be provided.
  • the perimeter sidewalls support a hinge structure or connection arrangement to facilitate interconnection between the trays.
  • the sidewall supporting the hinge structure is provided with cable routing openings on each side of the hinge structure.
  • the end wall is shown without any further features or installed components, additional projections and structures can be provided to facilitate the retention of telecommunications cables and other related components.
  • the trays are configured as fiber optic splice trays which can hold, for example, fiber splice modules.
  • the tray assembly 100 includes a plurality of stacked trays 110 rotatably connected to and supported by each other. In the example shown, three stacked trays 110 are illustrated. However, fewer or more trays 110 may be provided, for example, two, four, five, or more trays 110 may be stacked together.
  • each tray 110 is provided with a main body portion 112, a connection arrangement 114, and a positioning arrangement 116.
  • the connection arrangement 114 of one tray 110 interconnects with the connection arrangement 114 of another tray 110 such that the trays 110 are rotatable with respect to each other.
  • the connection arrangement further provides means for a tray to be placed into a locked open position.
  • the positioning arrangements 116 of adjacent trays 110 engage each other to resist relative lateral movement between the trays 110.
  • each tray 110 can be also provided with an optional removable cover portion (not shown) which can be connected to the tray main body portion 112 via a snap-fit connection.
  • each tray 110 is unitarily formed as a single component.
  • the trays 110 are formed from a polymeric material, such as an ABS polycarbonate material.
  • the cover portions, where provided, may also be formed of a polymeric material or another material, such as a metal material.
  • each tray 110 is shown in isolation. As presented, each tray 110 is provided with a first part 114a of the connection arrangement and a second part 114b of the connection arrangement 114. The first and second parts 114a,
  • the first part 114a includes a base portion 114c extending from the main body 112, a pin structure 114d extending laterally from the base portion 114c, and a lock member 114e extending from the base portion 114c and the pin structure 114d.
  • the second part 114b includes a base portion 114f defining a cylindrical opening 114g extending laterally between ends of the base portion 114f, wherein the base portion 114f further includes a slot 114h extending from one end of the base portion 114f and into the opening 114g.
  • each tray is provided with two first and second parts 114a, 114b. More or fewer may be provided.
  • each tray 110 is further provided with a first part 116a and a second part 116b of the positioning arrangement 116.
  • the first and second parts 116a, 116b of adjacent trays cooperate together to resist lateral movement between adjacent trays 110.
  • the first part 116a includes a base portion 116c extending from the main body 112, a pin structure 116d extending between the base portion 116c and the base portion 114c of one of the connection arrangements 114.
  • the pin structure 116d could extend between two separate base portions 116c.
  • the pin structure 116d is provided with first and second spaced apart slot structures 116f, 116e.
  • the second part 116b is provided with a base portion 116g extending from the tray main body 112.
  • the base portion 116g is formed as a deflectable L-shaped extension and presents a vertical protrusion or extension 116h that has a complementary shape to the slot structures 116e, 116f.
  • FIGS 1-13 the pin structures 114d of one tray 110 is received into the openings 114g of a below tray 110 to form a rotatable connection.
  • Figures 1-5 show the trays 110 rotated to a closed position such that all trays 110 are adjacent to each other. In this position, the protrusion 116h of the positioning arrangement 116 is engaged into the slot structure 116f such that lateral displacement of the upper tray 110 is resisted when the upper tray 110 is in the closed position.
  • Figures 6-9 show the top tray 110 rotated into an intermediate open position, which is shown as being about 90 degrees. In this position, the lock member 114e is aligned with, but not engaged with the slot 114h.
  • FIGS. 10-13 show the top tray 110 in the open position after being laterally displaced in a direction towards a distal end of the pin structure 114d such that the lock member 114e is received into the slot 114h.
  • the lock member 114e engages against the base portion 114f at the edges of the slot 114h to prevent the top tray from being rotated into the closed position.
  • the protrusion 116h is now received into slot structure 116e such that the tray 110 cannot be returned to the intermediate open position without overcoming the interactive resistance between these features.
  • the tray 110 is simply displaced laterally in the opposite direction to disengage the lock member 114e from the slot 114h in the base portion 114f. Any of the trays 110 in the stack may be rotated and secured into the open position in such a manner so as to allow access to the tray below.
  • the tray assembly 200 includes a plurality of stacked trays 210 rotatably connected to and supported by each other. In the example shown, three stacked trays 210 are illustrated. However, fewer or more trays 210 may be provided, for example, two, four, five, or more trays 210 may be stacked together.
  • each tray 210 is provided with a main body portion 212, a connection arrangement 214, and a locking arrangement 216.
  • the connection arrangement 214 of one tray 210 interconnects with the connection arrangement 214 of another tray 210 such that the trays 210 are rotatable with respect to each other.
  • the locking arrangements 216 engage with the tray 210 above to selectively lock the above tray 210 in an open position.
  • each tray 210 can be also provided with an optional removable cover portion (not shown) which can be connected to the tray main body portion 212 via a snap- fit connection.
  • the main body portion 212 and the connection arrangement 214 are unitarily formed as a single component.
  • the trays 110 are formed from a polymeric material, such as an ABS polycarbonate material.
  • the cover portions, where provided, may also be formed of a polymeric material or another material, such as a metal material.
  • each tray 210 is shown in isolation. As presented, each tray 210 is provided with a first part 214a of the connection arrangement and a second part 214b of the connection arrangement 214. The first and second parts 214a,
  • the first part 214a includes a base portion 214c extending from the main body 212 and a pin structure 214d extending laterally from the base portion 214c.
  • the second part 214b includes abase portion 214e defining a cylindrical opening 214f extending laterally between ends of the base portion 214e.
  • the base portion 214e of one of the second parts 214b includes an open slot 214g to allow one of the pin structures 214d to snap into the opening 214f. As the pin structures 214d face in opposite directions, such a construction facilitates attachment of the trays together.
  • each tray 210 is provided with two first and second parts 214a, 214b. More or fewer may be provided.
  • each tray 210 is further provided with a first part 216a of the locking arrangement 216.
  • the first part 216a is provided as a laterally extending, generally T-shaped (in cross-section) protrusion configured to be slidingly received by a lock member 218.
  • the lock member 218 is shown in isolation at Figures 43 to 47 where it can be seen that the lock member 218 includes a main body 218a defining a slot or recess 218b and further defining a stop surface 218c.
  • the lock member 218 can be laterally positioned in an unlocked position in which the trays 210 are able to freely rotate with respect to each other without interference of the lock member 218.
  • the base portion 214c of the above tray blocks the lock member 218 of a below tray from moving out of the unlocked position when the above tray is in the closed position, as most easily seen at Figure 26.
  • base portion 214c rotates out of the sliding pathway of the lock member 218 such that the lock member 218 is enabled to move into a locked position.
  • Figures 31 to 34 show such a configuration, wherein the lock member 218 has been laterally displaced into the locked position such that the stop surface 218c resides between the base portion 214c and the main body 212 of the tray 210, thereby causing an interference preventing the above tray from rotating back into the closed position. In this position, the lock member 218 thus supports a portion of the weight of the above tray when in the locked position.
  • the lock members 218 can be provided with rib portions 218d on the side opposite from the stop surface 218c to enable an operator to move the lock member 218, for example with a tool, between the locked and unlocked positions from the front or interior side of the tray assembly.
  • the tray main bodies 112 are provided with a recess 212a such that the ribs portions 218d can be accessed in such a manner.
  • the tray assembly 300 includes a plurality of stacked trays 310 rotatably connected to and supported by each other. In the example shown, three stacked trays 310 are illustrated. However, fewer or more trays 310 may be provided, for example, two, four, five, or more trays 310 may be stacked together.
  • each tray 310 is provided with a main body portion 312, a connection arrangement 314, and a positioning arrangement 316.
  • the connection arrangement 314 of one tray 310 interconnects with the connection arrangement 314 of another tray 310 such that the trays 310 are rotatable with respect to each other.
  • the connection arrangement further provides means for a tray to be placed into a locked open position.
  • the positioning arrangements 316 of adjacent trays 310 engage each other to resist relative lateral movement between the trays 310.
  • each tray 310 can be also provided with an optional removable cover portion (not shown) which can be connected to the tray main body portion 312 via a snap-fit connection.
  • each tray 310 are unitarily formed as a single component.
  • the trays 310 are formed from a polymeric material, such as an ABS polycarbonate material.
  • the cover portions, where provided, may also be formed of a polymeric material or another material, such as a metal material.
  • a single tray 310 is shown in isolation. As presented, each tray 310 is provided with a first part 314a of the connection arrangement and a second part 314b of the connection arrangement 314. The first and second parts 314a,
  • the first part 314a includes a base portion 314c extending from the main body 312 and a pin structure 314d extending laterally from the base portion 314c.
  • the pin structure 314d is provided with a non-circular cross-sectional shape.
  • the pin structure 314d is provided with a pair of opposite flat sides 314e, 314f separated by a distance Dl, and a pair of opposite curved sides 314g, 314h.
  • the curved sides 314g, 314h are separated by a distance D2 and have matching, constant radii. As shown, distance D2 is greater than distance D 1 such that the cross-sectional shape of the pin structure 314d has a generally rectangular shape. Other shapes are possible.
  • the second part 314b includes a base portion 314i extending from the main body 312 and a wall structure 314j supported by the base portion 314i.
  • the wall structure 314j defines an opening 314k having a generally circular first portion 314m and a generally rectangular second portion 314n together defining what may be referred to as a laterally extending keyhole or clithridiate cross-sectional shape.
  • the first portion 314m has a diameter or dimension W2 that is equal to or slightly greater than distance D2 while the second portion 314n has a width or dimension W 1 that is equal to or slightly greater than distance D 1.
  • the above tray 310 can be freely rotated towards and into an intermediate open position, as is illustrated at Figures 53 to 56 with the pin structures 314d remaining in the opening first portions 314m.
  • the flat sides 314e, 314f align with the opening second portions 314n, at which point, the pin structures 314d can drop into the opening second portions 314n by the force of gravity or by manipulation by an operator.
  • the flat sides 314e, 314f of the pin structures 314d engage against the sides of the opening second portions 314n, thereby preventing the tray 310 from being rotated in either direction.
  • the angle al can be characterized as the angle between the flat sides 314e, 314f and the sides of the openings of second portion 314n. In some examples, the angle al is between 45 degrees and 135 degrees. In one example, the angle al is about 95 degrees. As shown, each tray is provided with two first and second parts 314a, 314b. More or fewer may be provided.
  • each tray 310 is further provided with a first part 316a and a second part 316b of the positioning arrangement 316.
  • the first and second parts 316a, 316b of adjacent trays 310 cooperate together to resist lateral movement between adjacent trays 310.
  • the first part 316a includes a pair of base portion extensions 316c extending from the main body 312 and a pin structure 316d extending between the base portion extensions 316c.
  • the pin structure 316d is provided with a vertical slot or channel structure 316e.
  • the second part 316b is provided with a base portion 316f extending from the tray main body 312.
  • the base portion 316f is formed as a deflectable L-shaped extension and presents a vertical protrusion or extension 316g that has a complementary shape to the slot structure 316e.
  • the protrusion 316g of the positioning arrangement 316 is engaged into the slot structure 316e such that lateral displacement of the upper tray 310 is resisted when the upper tray 310 is in the closed and open positions. Any of the trays 310 in the stack may be rotated and secured into the open position in such a manner so as to allow access to the tray below.
  • the tray assembly 400 includes a plurality of stacked trays 410 rotatably connected to and supported by each other. In the example shown, three stacked trays 410 are illustrated. However, fewer or more trays 410 may be provided, for example, two, four, five, or more trays 410 may be stacked together.
  • each tray 410 is provided with a main body portion 412, a connection arrangement 414, and a positioning arrangement 416. The connection arrangement 414 of one tray 410 interconnects with the connection arrangement 414 of another tray 410 such that the trays 410 are rotatable with respect to each other.
  • each tray 410 can be also provided with an optional removable cover portion (not shown) which can be connected to the tray main body portion 412 via a snap-fit connection.
  • each tray 410 are unitarily formed as a single component.
  • the trays 410 are formed from a polymeric material, such as an ABS polycarbonate material.
  • the cover portions, where provided, may also be formed of a polymeric material or another material, such as a metal material.
  • each tray 410 is shown in isolation. As presented, each tray 410 is provided with a first part 414a of the connection arrangement and a second part 414b of the connection arrangement 414. The first and second parts 414a,
  • the first part 414a includes a base portion 414c extending from the main body 412 and a pin structure 414d extending laterally from the base portion 414c.
  • the second part 414b includes abase portion 414e defining a cylindrical opening 414f extending laterally between ends of the base portion 414e. As shown, each tray 410 is provided with two first and second parts 414a, 414b. More or fewer may be provided.
  • each tray 410 is further provided with a first part 416a and a second part 416b of the positioning arrangement 416.
  • the first and second parts 416a, 416b of adjacent trays cooperate together to hold an above tray 410 in an open position with respect to a below tray 410.
  • the first part 416a includes a base portion 416c extending from the main body 412 and a latch portion 416d.
  • the second part 416b is provided with a base portion 416e extending from the tray main body 412.
  • the base portion 416e is provided with a catch portion 416f configured to engaged with the latch portion 416d when the above tray 410 is rotated to a predetermined opening angle.
  • the second part 416b is also provided with a deflectable extension tab 416g extending laterally from the base portion 416e.
  • the pin structures 414d of one tray 410 is received into the openings 414e of a below tray 410 to form a rotatable connection.
  • the deflectable extension tabs 416g of the below trays 410 engage against one of the second parts 414b of the above trays 410 to prevent or resist lateral movement that would cause the trays to become disengaged from each other.
  • the extension tab 416g can be deflected inward towards the main body 412 to disengage the trays 410 from each other.
  • Figures 69-74 show the trays 410 rotated to a closed position such that all trays 410 are adjacent to each other. In this position, the latch portion 416d of the above tray 410 is disengaged from the catch portion 416f of the below tray 410.
  • Figures 75 to 78 show the top tray 410 rotated into an open position, which is shown as being about 90 degrees. In this position, the latch portion 416d of the uppermost tray 410 is engaged with the catch portion 416f of the below tray 410.
  • the first part 416a of the positioning arrangement can be deflectable such that the first part 416a initially deflects after contact with the second part 416b when the tray is being rotated open, and then snaps or returns to its relaxed state once the open position is achieved and the latch portion 416d is engaged with the catch portion 416f.
  • the second part 416b is supported by an end wall of the main body 412 that has adjacent cable routing pathways extending therethrough. Accordingly, the end wall can also be resilient or deflectable to facilitate deflection when there is interference between the catch portion 416f and the latch portion 416d. With a sufficient closing force exerted on the open or upper tray 410, the latch portion 416d will disengage from the catch portion 416f such that the tray 410 can be returned to the closed position.
  • the tray assembly 500 includes a plurality of stacked trays 510 rotatably connected to and supported by each other.
  • the tray assembly 500 includes a plurality of stacked trays 510 rotatably connected to and supported by each other.
  • two stacked trays 510 are illustrated.
  • more trays 510 may be provided, for example, three, four, five, or more trays 510 may be stacked together.
  • each tray 510 is provided with a main body portion 512, a connection arrangement 514, and a positioning arrangement 516.
  • the connection arrangement 514 of one tray 510 interconnects with the connection arrangement 514 of another tray 510 such that the trays 510 are rotatable with respect to each other.
  • the positioning arrangements 516 of a below tray engage with the connection arrangement 514 of an above tray to resist lateral movement between the trays that would cause the trays 510 to become disengaged from each other.
  • each tray 510 can be also provided with an optional removable cover portion (not shown) which can be connected to the tray main body portion 512 via a snap-fit connection.
  • each tray 510 are unitarily formed as a single component.
  • the trays 510 are formed from a polymeric material, such as an ABS polycarbonate material.
  • the cover portions, where provided, may also be formed of a polymeric material or another material, such as a metal material.
  • each tray 510 is provided with a first part 514a of the connection arrangement and a second part 514b of the connection arrangement 514.
  • the first and second parts 514a, 514b of adjacent trays cooperate together to form a hinged or rotatable connection.
  • the first part 514a includes a base portion 514c extending from the main body 512 and a pin structure 514d extending laterally from the base portion 514c.
  • the second part 514b includes a base portion 514e defining a cylindrical opening 514f extending laterally between ends of the base portion 514e.
  • Each second part 516b is also provided with a radiused comer 514h, a surface 514g, a radiused comer 514i, a surface 514j, and a radiused comer 514k.
  • the surface 514j is a vertical straight surface, orthogonal to a horizontal axis 514x and parallel to an end wall of the tray main body, that extends from the radiused comer 514i to the radiused comer 514k, wherein the surface 514j extends above and below the horizontal axis 514x extending through the centerline of the opening 514f and wherein the radiused comer 514h is located entirely below the opening 514f.
  • the surface 514g is sloped towards the axis 514x as the surface extends away from the main body 512 of the tray 510 such that an acute angle is formed between the surface 514g and the axis 514x.
  • each tray 510 is provided with two first and second parts 514a, 514b. More or fewer may be provided.
  • each tray 510 is further provided with a first part 516a of the positioning arrangement 516.
  • the first part 516a is configured as an L-shaped, deflectable member extending laterally towards one of the second parts 514b.
  • the first part 516a is configured to engage against the second part 514b of an above tray to prevent the above tray from laterally moving and becoming disconnected from the below tray.
  • the first part 516a can be deflected inward towards the main body 512 to disengage the trays 510 from each other.
  • Figures 90 to 99 and 110a to 1 lOg the pin structures 514d of one tray 510 are received into the openings 514f of a below tray 410 to form a rotatable connection.
  • Figures 90-95 show the trays 510 rotated to a closed position such that all trays 510 are adjacent to each other. In this position, upper and lower rounded contact surfaces 514g, 514h of adjacent trays are out of contact with each other such that the trays 510 are freely rotatable.
  • Figures 96 to 99 and lOOg show the top tray 510 rotated into an open position, which is shown as being about 135 degrees.
  • the top tray 510 is rotated progressively, as illustrated at Figures 110a to lOOg.
  • the top tray 510 is in the closed position such that both trays, as shown on the page, are in a horizontal position.
  • the top tray 510 has been rotated 65 degrees from the closed position, wherein the radiused comer 514h of the top tray 510 makes contact with the surface 514g of the lower tray.
  • the tray is rotated from 70 degrees to 85 degrees and through the resulting interference between the comer 514h of the top tray and the surface 514g and comer 514i. Through these positions, the operator must exert an opening force to overcome the force resulting from the interference.
  • the top tray 510 has been rotated 90 degrees, the point which is past the interference. In this position, the top tray 510 is held in the open position and prevented from rotating back into the closed position by the previously described interference. With a sufficient closing force exerted on the open or upper tray 510, this interference resistance can be overcome such that the above tray 510 can be returned to the closed position.
  • the top tray is rotated through 135 degrees where it can be seen that the radiused comer 514h makes contact with the surface 514j .
  • the surface 514j acts as a limit or stop for the opening of the top tray 510.
  • the top tray 510 As the top tray 510 is rotated past 90 degrees in this position, the top tray 510 can be characterized as being retained in the open position due to the force of gravity. It is noted that the second part 516b is supported by an end wall of the main body 512 that has adjacent cable routing pathways extending therethrough. Accordingly, the end wall can also be resilient or deflectable to facilitate deflection when the interference between surfaces 514h, 514g/514i occurs.

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Abstract

A towerless telecommunications tray assembly includes a first telecommunications tray defining a first connection arrangement and second telecommunications tray defining a second connection arrangement, the first and second connection arrangements rotatably connecting the first tray to the second tray. The telecommunications trays include features for holding the first telecommunications tray in an open position with respect to the second telecommunications tray.

Description

TRAY HINGE SYSTEM
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION [0001] This application is being filed on June 22, 2022 as a PCT International Patent Application and claims the benefit of U.S. Patent Application Serial Number 63/202,735, filed on June 22, 2021, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
BACKGROUND
[0002] To increase storage density, some telecommunications equipment resides in stacked and hinged trays. In order to gain access to one of the hinged trays, the trays above that tray must be rotated up and held in this position. In some prior art designs, a separate member, sometimes referred to as a “kickstand” is provided on each tray that can be rotated to hold the tray and all above trays in the upward position. Necessarily, the kickstand must be designed to hold the weight of multiple trays. Improvements are desired.
SUMMARY
[0003] A telecommunications tray assembly is disclosed.
[0004] A variety of additional aspects will be set forth in the description that follows. The aspects can relate to individual features and to combinations of features. It is to be understood that both the forgoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the broad inventive concepts upon which the examples disclosed herein are based.
[0005] A telecommunications tray assembly can include a first telecommunications tray including a first connection arrangement; and a second telecommunications tray including a second connection arrangement, the first and second connection arrangements rotatably connecting the first tray to the second tray; wherein the first telecommunications tray can be locked into an open position relative to the second telecommunications tray by laterally displacing the first telecommunications tray with respect to the second telecommunications tray. [0006] In some examples, the first and second telecommunications trays each include the first and second connection arrangements.
[0007] In some examples, the first connection arrangement includes one of an opening structure and a pin structure and the second connection arrangement includes the other of the opening structure and the pin structure.
[0008] In some examples, the assembly further includes a lock recess on one of the opening structure and the pin structure and a lock protrusion on the other of the opening structure and the pin structure.
[0009] In some examples, the lock recess is a recess formed in the opening structure and the lock protrusion is a protrusion extending from the pin structure.
[0010] In some examples, the first telecommunications tray is prevented from being laterally displaced into the locked position unless the first telecommunications tray is rotated into the open position.
[0011] In some examples, the first and second telecommunications trays are identical.
[0012] A telecommunications tray can include a first telecommunications tray including a first connection arrangement; a second telecommunications tray including a second connection arrangement, the first and second connection arrangements rotatably connecting the first tray to the second tray; and a lock member slidably mounted to the second telecommunications tray, wherein the lock member is movable to selectively lock the first telecommunications tray into an open position relative to the second telecommunications tray.
[0013] In some examples, the first and second telecommunications tray each include the first and second connection arrangements.
[0014] In some examples, the first telecommunications tray includes a lock member slidably mounted to the second telecommunications tray.
[0015] In some examples, the first and second telecommunications trays are identical.
[0016] In some examples, the lock member includes a first stop interacting with a surface of the second telecommunications tray to define an unlocked position of the lock member. [0017] In some examples, the lock member includes a second stop interacting with a surface of the second telecommunications tray to define a locked position of the lock member.
[0018] In some examples, the lock member includes a stop interacting with a surface of the second telecommunications tray to define a locked position of the lock member.
[0019] A telecommunications tray assembly can include a first telecommunications tray including a first connection arrangement having a pin structure; and a second telecommunications tray including a second connection arrangement defining a keyhole shaped opening for receiving the pin structure, the keyhole-shaped opening defining a first opening portion and a second opening portion, the first and second connection arrangements rotatably connecting the first tray to the second tray; wherein the first telecommunications tray can be rotated between open and closed positions with respect to the second telecommunications tray when the pin structure resides within the first opening portion and wherein the first telecommunications tray is held in the open position when the pin structure resides within the second opening portion.
[0020] In some examples, the first and second telecommunications tray each include the first and second connection arrangements.
[0021] In some examples, the first telecommunications tray includes two first connection arrangements and the second telecommunications tray includes two second connection arrangements.
[0022] In some examples, the first and second telecommunications trays are identical.
[0023] In some examples, when the first telecommunications tray is held in the open position, the first telecommunications tray is rotated greater than 90 degrees with respect to the second telecommunications tray.
[0024] In some examples, the pin structure has a non-round cross-sectional shape.
[0025] In some examples, the pin structure has a first pair of flat sides and the second opening portion has a complementarily shaped second pair of flat sides.
[0026] A telecommunications tray assembly can include a first telecommunications tray including a first connection arrangement and a latch member; and a second telecommunications tray including a second connection arrangement and a catch member, the first and second connection arrangements rotatably connecting the first tray to the second tray; wherein when the first telecommunications tray is rotated into an open position relative to the second telecommunications tray, the latch member engages with the catch member to retain the first telecommunications tray in the open position.
[0027] In some examples, the first and second telecommunications trays each include the first and second connection arrangements.
[0028] In some examples, the first telecommunications tray includes two first connection arrangements and the second telecommunications tray includes two second connection arrangements.
[0029] In some examples, the first telecommunications tray includes a single latch member and the second telecommunications tray includes a single catch member.
[0030] In some examples, the latch members and catch members are aligned along longitudinal axes of the first and second telecommunications trays.
[0031] In some examples, the first telecommunications tray includes a catch member and the second telecommunications tray includes a latch member.
[0032] In some examples, the first and second telecommunications trays are identical.
[0033] A telecommunications tray assembly comprising: a first telecommunications tray including a first connection arrangement and a first contact surface supported by a free standing sidewall extending between cable routing apertures; and a second telecommunications tray including a second connection arrangement and a second contact surface supported by a free-standing sidewall extending between cable routing apertures, the first and second connection arrangements rotatably connecting the first tray to the second tray; wherein when the first telecommunications tray is rotated into an open position relative to the second telecommunications tray, the first contact surface interferes with and rotates past the second contact surface to provide a resisting force against moving the first telecommunications tray back into the closed position.
[0034] In some examples, the first and second telecommunications trays each include the first and second connection arrangements.
[0035] In some examples, the first telecommunications tray includes two first connection arrangements and the second telecommunications tray includes two second connection arrangements.
[0036] In some examples, the first and second telecommunications trays are identical. [0037] In some examples, the first contact surface engages against a third contact surface of the second telecommunications tray to provide a stop to prevent further opening of the first telecommunications tray.
[0038] In some examples, the third contact surface is parallel to the free-standing sidewall of the second telecommunications tray.
[0039] In some examples, the second contact surface is sloped with respect to a top surface of the second telecommunications tray.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0040] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the description, illustrate several aspects of the present disclosure. A brief description of the drawings is as follows:
[0041] Figure 1 is a first perspective view of a schematic representation of a first example of a tray assembly having features in accordance with the present disclosure.
[0042] Figure 2 is a second perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 1.
[0043] Figure 3 is a first side view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 1.
[0044] Figure 4 is a second side view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 1.
[0045] Figure 5 is a partial perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 1.
[0046] Figure 6 is a first perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 1, with the tray assembly in an intermediate open position.
[0047] Figure 7 is a second perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 6.
[0048] Figure 8 is a partial perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 6.
[0049] Figure 9 is a partial perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 7.
[0050] Figure 10 is a first perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 1, with the tray assembly in a fully open position.
[0051] Figure 11 is a second perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 10. [0052] Figure 12 is a partial perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 10. [0053] Figure 13 is a partial perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 11. [0054] Figure 14 is a first perspective view of a tray of the tray assembly shown in Figure 11.
[0055] Figure 15 is a second perspective view of the tray of Figure 14.
[0056] Figure 16 is a top view of the tray of Figure 14.
[0057] Figure 17 is a bottom view of the tray of Figure 14.
[0058] Figure 18 is a first side view of the tray of Figure 14.
[0059] Figure 19 is a second side view of the tray of Figure 14.
[0060] Figure 20 is a third side view of the tray of Figure 14.
[0061] Figure 21 is a fourth side view of the tray of Figure 14.
[0062] Figure 22 is a first perspective view of a schematic representation of a second example of a tray assembly having features in accordance with the present disclosure.
[0063] Figure 23 is a second perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 22.
[0064] Figure 24 is a first side view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 22.
[0065] Figure 25 is a second side view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 22.
[0066] Figure 26 is a partial perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 22.
[0067] Figure 27 is a first perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 22, with the tray assembly in an intermediate open position.
[0068] Figure 28 is a second perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 27.
[0069] Figure 29 is a partial perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 27.
[0070] Figure 30 is a partial perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 28.
[0071] Figure 31 is a first perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 22, with the tray assembly in a fully open position.
[0072] Figure 32 is a second perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 31.
[0073] Figure 33 is a partial perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 31.
[0074] Figure 34 is a partial perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 32.
[0075] Figure 35 is a first perspective view of a tray of the tray assembly shown in Figure 32. [0076] Figure 36 is a second perspective view of the tray of Figure 35.
[0077] Figure 37 is a top view of the tray of Figure 35.
[0078] Figure 38 is a bottom view of the tray of Figure 35.
[0079] Figure 39 is a first side view of the tray of Figure 35.
[0080] Figure 40 is a second side view of the tray of Figure 35.
[0081] Figure 41 is a third side view of the tray of Figure 35.
[0082] Figure 42 is a fourth side view of the tray of Figure 35.
[0083] Figure 43 is a first perspective view of a lock member of the tray assembly shown in Figure 22.
[0084] Figure 44 is a second perspective view of the lock member of Figure 43.
[0085] Figure 45 is a top view of the lock member of Figure 43.
[0086] Figure 46 is a first side view of the lock member of Figure 44.
[0087] Figure 47 is a second side view of the lock member of Figure 44.
[0088] Figure 48 is a first perspective view of a schematic representation of a third example of a tray assembly having features in accordance with the present disclosure.
[0089] Figure 49 is a second perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 48.
[0090] Figure 50 is a first side view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 48.
[0091] Figure 51 is a second side view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 48.
[0092] Figure 52 is a partial perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 48.
[0093] Figure 53 is a first perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 48, with the tray assembly in an intermediate open position.
[0094] Figure 54 is a second perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 53.
[0095] Figure 55 is a partial perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 53.
[0096] Figure 56 is a partial perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 54.
[0097] Figure 57 is a first perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 48, with the tray assembly in a fully open position.
[0098] Figure 58 is a second perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 57. [0099] Figure 59 is a partial perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 57.
[0100] Figure 60 is a partial perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 58.
[0101] Figure 61 is a first perspective view of a tray of the tray assembly shown in Figure 48.
[0102] Figure 62 is a second perspective view of the tray of Figure 61.
[0103] Figure 63 is a top view of the tray of Figure 61.
[0104] Figure 64 is a bottom view of the tray of Figure 61.
[0105] Figure 65 is a first side view of the tray of Figure 61.
[0106] Figure 66 is a second side view of the tray of Figure 61.
[0107] Figure 67 is a third side view of the tray of Figure 61.
[0108] Figure 68 is a fourth side view of the tray of Figure 61.
[0109] Figure 68A is an enlarged, partial view of the tray of Figure 68.
[0110] Figure 69 is a first perspective view of a schematic representation of a fourth example of a tray assembly having features in accordance with the present disclosure.
[0111] Figure 70 is a second perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 69.
[0112] Figure 71 is a first side view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 69.
[0113] Figure 72 is a second side view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 69.
[0114] Figure 73 is a partial perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 69.
[0115] Figure 74 is another partial perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 69.
[0116] Figure 75 is a first perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 69, with the tray assembly in an open position.
[0117] Figure 76 is a second perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 75. [0118] Figure 77 is a partial perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 75. [0119] Figure 78 is a partial perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 76. [0120] Figure 79 is a cross-sectional side view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 75. [0121] Figure 80 is a partial cross-sectional side view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 79.
[0122] Figure 81 is a first perspective view of a tray of the tray assembly shown in Figure 69.
[0123] Figure 82 is a second perspective view of the tray of Figure 81.
[0124] Figure 83 is a top view of the tray of Figure 81.
[0125] Figure 84 is a bottom view of the tray of Figure 81.
[0126] Figure 85 is a first side view of the tray of Figure 81.
[0127] Figure 86 is a second side view of the tray of Figure 81.
[0128] Figure 87 is a third side view of the tray of Figure 81.
[0129] Figure 88 is a fourth side view of the tray of Figure 81.
[0130] Figure 89 is a partial cross-sectional side view of the tray of Figure 81.
[0131] Figure 90 is a first perspective view of a schematic representation of a fifth example of a tray assembly having features in accordance with the present disclosure.
[0132] Figure 91 is a second perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 90.
[0133] Figure 92 is a first side view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 90.
[0134] Figure 93 is a second side view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 90.
[0135] Figure 94 is a partial perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 90.
[0136] Figure 95 is another partial perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 90.
[0137] Figure 96 is a first perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 90, with the tray assembly in an open position.
[0138] Figure 97 is a second perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 96.
[0139] Figure 98 is a partial perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 96.
[0140] Figure 99 is another partial perspective view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 96.
[0141] Figure 100 is a cross-sectional side view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 96. [0142] Figure 101 is a partial cross-sectional side view of the tray assembly shown in Figure 100.
[0143] Figure 102 is a first perspective view of a tray of the tray assembly shown in Figure 90.
[0144] Figure 103 is a second perspective view of the tray of Figure 102.
[0145] Figure 104 is a top view of the tray of Figure 102.
[0146] Figure 105 is a bottom view of the tray of Figure 102.
[0147] Figure 106 is a first side view of the tray of Figure 102.
[0148] Figure 107 is a second side view of the tray of Figure 102.
[0149] Figure 108 is a third side view of the tray of Figure 102.
[0150] Figure 109 is a fourth side view of the tray of Figure 102.
[0151] Figure 109a is an enlarged partial view of the tray shown in Figure 109.
[0152] Figures 110a to 1 lOg show the tray assembly of Figure 90 with the top tray rotated progressively open.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0153] Various examples will be described in detail with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals represent like parts and assemblies throughout the several views. Reference to various examples does not limit the scope of the claims attached hereto. Additionally, any examples set forth in this specification are not intended to be limiting and merely set forth some of the many possible examples for the appended claims. Referring to the drawings wherein like reference numbers correspond to like or similar components throughout the several figures.
[0154] It is noted that the following description may utilize directional language (e.g., raised, lowered, upper, lower, horizontal, vertical, etc.) that indicates a particular orientation. Although the disclosed tray assemblies 100 can be oriented as shown in the drawings, many other orientations are possible, and the directional language used herein should not be taken to limit the disclosure. [0155] In this disclosure, multiple embodiments of tray assemblies including multiple stacked, interconnected trays are presented. In one aspect, the disclosed trays can be provided with a main body portion defining a base surface or end wall from which perimeter sidewalls extend. Together, the end wall and sidewalls define an interior storage space for housing telecommunications cables and other related components. In some examples, the perimeter sidewalls are provided with openings, for example at a rear or hinge side, to facilitate routing of cables into and out of the interior storage space. In the examples shown, four such openings are provided, although more or fewer may be provided. In some examples, the perimeter sidewalls support a hinge structure or connection arrangement to facilitate interconnection between the trays. In some examples, the sidewall supporting the hinge structure is provided with cable routing openings on each side of the hinge structure. Although the end wall is shown without any further features or installed components, additional projections and structures can be provided to facilitate the retention of telecommunications cables and other related components. In some examples, the trays are configured as fiber optic splice trays which can hold, for example, fiber splice modules.
Tray Assembly 100
[0156] Referring to Figures 1-21, a first example of a tray assembly 100 is presented. As shown, the tray assembly 100 includes a plurality of stacked trays 110 rotatably connected to and supported by each other. In the example shown, three stacked trays 110 are illustrated. However, fewer or more trays 110 may be provided, for example, two, four, five, or more trays 110 may be stacked together.
[0157] As shown, each tray 110 is provided with a main body portion 112, a connection arrangement 114, and a positioning arrangement 116. The connection arrangement 114 of one tray 110 interconnects with the connection arrangement 114 of another tray 110 such that the trays 110 are rotatable with respect to each other. The connection arrangement further provides means for a tray to be placed into a locked open position. The positioning arrangements 116 of adjacent trays 110 engage each other to resist relative lateral movement between the trays 110. In some examples, each tray 110 can be also provided with an optional removable cover portion (not shown) which can be connected to the tray main body portion 112 via a snap-fit connection.
[0158] In some examples, the main body portion 112, connection arrangement 114, and positioning arrangement 116 of each tray 110 are unitarily formed as a single component. In some examples, the trays 110 are formed from a polymeric material, such as an ABS polycarbonate material. The cover portions, where provided, may also be formed of a polymeric material or another material, such as a metal material.
[0159] Referring to Figures 14 to 21, a single tray 110 is shown in isolation. As presented, each tray 110 is provided with a first part 114a of the connection arrangement and a second part 114b of the connection arrangement 114. The first and second parts 114a,
114b of adjacent trays cooperate together to form a hinged or rotatable connection. In one aspect, the first part 114a includes a base portion 114c extending from the main body 112, a pin structure 114d extending laterally from the base portion 114c, and a lock member 114e extending from the base portion 114c and the pin structure 114d. In one aspect, the second part 114b includes a base portion 114f defining a cylindrical opening 114g extending laterally between ends of the base portion 114f, wherein the base portion 114f further includes a slot 114h extending from one end of the base portion 114f and into the opening 114g. As shown, each tray is provided with two first and second parts 114a, 114b. More or fewer may be provided.
[0160] With continued reference to Figures 14 to 21, each tray 110 is further provided with a first part 116a and a second part 116b of the positioning arrangement 116. The first and second parts 116a, 116b of adjacent trays cooperate together to resist lateral movement between adjacent trays 110. In one aspect, the first part 116a includes a base portion 116c extending from the main body 112, a pin structure 116d extending between the base portion 116c and the base portion 114c of one of the connection arrangements 114. Instead of such an arrangement, the pin structure 116d could extend between two separate base portions 116c. The pin structure 116d is provided with first and second spaced apart slot structures 116f, 116e. In one aspect, the second part 116b is provided with a base portion 116g extending from the tray main body 112. The base portion 116g is formed as a deflectable L-shaped extension and presents a vertical protrusion or extension 116h that has a complementary shape to the slot structures 116e, 116f.
[0161] As can be seen at Figures 1-13, the pin structures 114d of one tray 110 is received into the openings 114g of a below tray 110 to form a rotatable connection. Figures 1-5 show the trays 110 rotated to a closed position such that all trays 110 are adjacent to each other. In this position, the protrusion 116h of the positioning arrangement 116 is engaged into the slot structure 116f such that lateral displacement of the upper tray 110 is resisted when the upper tray 110 is in the closed position. Figures 6-9 show the top tray 110 rotated into an intermediate open position, which is shown as being about 90 degrees. In this position, the lock member 114e is aligned with, but not engaged with the slot 114h. Also in this position, the protrusion 116h of the positioning arrangement 116 is still engaged with the slot structure 116f such that lateral displacement of the upper tray 110 is resisted. Figures 10-13 show the top tray 110 in the open position after being laterally displaced in a direction towards a distal end of the pin structure 114d such that the lock member 114e is received into the slot 114h. In this position, the lock member 114e engages against the base portion 114f at the edges of the slot 114h to prevent the top tray from being rotated into the closed position. In this position, the protrusion 116h is now received into slot structure 116e such that the tray 110 cannot be returned to the intermediate open position without overcoming the interactive resistance between these features. To return the top tray 110 to the closed position, the tray 110 is simply displaced laterally in the opposite direction to disengage the lock member 114e from the slot 114h in the base portion 114f. Any of the trays 110 in the stack may be rotated and secured into the open position in such a manner so as to allow access to the tray below.
Tray Assembly 200
[0162] Referring to Figures 22-47, a second example of a tray assembly 200 is presented. As shown, the tray assembly 200 includes a plurality of stacked trays 210 rotatably connected to and supported by each other. In the example shown, three stacked trays 210 are illustrated. However, fewer or more trays 210 may be provided, for example, two, four, five, or more trays 210 may be stacked together.
[0163] As shown, each tray 210 is provided with a main body portion 212, a connection arrangement 214, and a locking arrangement 216. The connection arrangement 214 of one tray 210 interconnects with the connection arrangement 214 of another tray 210 such that the trays 210 are rotatable with respect to each other. The locking arrangements 216 engage with the tray 210 above to selectively lock the above tray 210 in an open position. In some examples, each tray 210 can be also provided with an optional removable cover portion (not shown) which can be connected to the tray main body portion 212 via a snap- fit connection.
[0164] In some examples, the main body portion 212 and the connection arrangement 214 are unitarily formed as a single component. In some examples, the trays 110 are formed from a polymeric material, such as an ABS polycarbonate material. The cover portions, where provided, may also be formed of a polymeric material or another material, such as a metal material.
[0165] Referring to Figures 35 to 42, a single tray 210 is shown in isolation. As presented, each tray 210 is provided with a first part 214a of the connection arrangement and a second part 214b of the connection arrangement 214. The first and second parts 214a,
214b of adjacent trays cooperate together to form a hinged or rotatable connection. In one aspect, the first part 214a includes a base portion 214c extending from the main body 212 and a pin structure 214d extending laterally from the base portion 214c. In one aspect, the second part 214b includes abase portion 214e defining a cylindrical opening 214f extending laterally between ends of the base portion 214e. In the example shown, the base portion 214e of one of the second parts 214b includes an open slot 214g to allow one of the pin structures 214d to snap into the opening 214f. As the pin structures 214d face in opposite directions, such a construction facilitates attachment of the trays together. An advantage of such a configuration is that the trays 210 are prevented from lateral movement due to the interaction between the base portions 214c, 214e once the trays 210 are snapped together. In an alternative arrangement where the pins face in the same direction, the slot 214g could be eliminated. With such a construction, a positioning arrangement, for example of the type shown for the trays 110, could be provided to prevent lateral movement of the trays 210. As shown, each tray is provided with two first and second parts 214a, 214b. More or fewer may be provided.
[0166] With continued reference to Figures 35 to 42, each tray 210 is further provided with a first part 216a of the locking arrangement 216. As shown, the first part 216a is provided as a laterally extending, generally T-shaped (in cross-section) protrusion configured to be slidingly received by a lock member 218. The lock member 218 is shown in isolation at Figures 43 to 47 where it can be seen that the lock member 218 includes a main body 218a defining a slot or recess 218b and further defining a stop surface 218c. As can be seen most easily at Figures 22 to 30, the lock member 218 can be laterally positioned in an unlocked position in which the trays 210 are able to freely rotate with respect to each other without interference of the lock member 218. In one aspect, the base portion 214c of the above tray blocks the lock member 218 of a below tray from moving out of the unlocked position when the above tray is in the closed position, as most easily seen at Figure 26. Once an above tray 210 is in the open position, as shown at Figures 31 to 34, base portion 214c rotates out of the sliding pathway of the lock member 218 such that the lock member 218 is enabled to move into a locked position. Figures 31 to 34 show such a configuration, wherein the lock member 218 has been laterally displaced into the locked position such that the stop surface 218c resides between the base portion 214c and the main body 212 of the tray 210, thereby causing an interference preventing the above tray from rotating back into the closed position. In this position, the lock member 218 thus supports a portion of the weight of the above tray when in the locked position. In one aspect, the lock members 218 can be provided with rib portions 218d on the side opposite from the stop surface 218c to enable an operator to move the lock member 218, for example with a tool, between the locked and unlocked positions from the front or interior side of the tray assembly. In the particular example shown, the tray main bodies 112 are provided with a recess 212a such that the ribs portions 218d can be accessed in such a manner.
Tray Assembly 300
[0167] Referring to Figures 48 to 69, a third example of a tray assembly 300 is presented. As shown, the tray assembly 300 includes a plurality of stacked trays 310 rotatably connected to and supported by each other. In the example shown, three stacked trays 310 are illustrated. However, fewer or more trays 310 may be provided, for example, two, four, five, or more trays 310 may be stacked together.
[0168] As shown, each tray 310 is provided with a main body portion 312, a connection arrangement 314, and a positioning arrangement 316. The connection arrangement 314 of one tray 310 interconnects with the connection arrangement 314 of another tray 310 such that the trays 310 are rotatable with respect to each other. The connection arrangement further provides means for a tray to be placed into a locked open position. The positioning arrangements 316 of adjacent trays 310 engage each other to resist relative lateral movement between the trays 310. In some examples, each tray 310 can be also provided with an optional removable cover portion (not shown) which can be connected to the tray main body portion 312 via a snap-fit connection.
[0169] In some examples, the main body portion 312, connection arrangement 314, and positioning arrangement 316 of each tray 310 are unitarily formed as a single component. In some examples, the trays 310 are formed from a polymeric material, such as an ABS polycarbonate material. The cover portions, where provided, may also be formed of a polymeric material or another material, such as a metal material. [0170] Referring to Figures 61 to 68, a single tray 310 is shown in isolation. As presented, each tray 310 is provided with a first part 314a of the connection arrangement and a second part 314b of the connection arrangement 314. The first and second parts 314a,
314b of adjacent trays cooperate together to form a hinged or rotatable connection. In one aspect, the first part 314a includes a base portion 314c extending from the main body 312 and a pin structure 314d extending laterally from the base portion 314c.
[0171] In one aspect, and as most easily viewed at Figure 68A, the pin structure 314d is provided with a non-circular cross-sectional shape. In the particular example shown, the pin structure 314d is provided with a pair of opposite flat sides 314e, 314f separated by a distance Dl, and a pair of opposite curved sides 314g, 314h. In one aspect, the curved sides 314g, 314h are separated by a distance D2 and have matching, constant radii. As shown, distance D2 is greater than distance D 1 such that the cross-sectional shape of the pin structure 314d has a generally rectangular shape. Other shapes are possible.
[0172] In one aspect, and as most easily viewed at Figure 68A, the second part 314b includes a base portion 314i extending from the main body 312 and a wall structure 314j supported by the base portion 314i. In one aspect, the wall structure 314j defines an opening 314k having a generally circular first portion 314m and a generally rectangular second portion 314n together defining what may be referred to as a laterally extending keyhole or clithridiate cross-sectional shape. In one aspect, the first portion 314m has a diameter or dimension W2 that is equal to or slightly greater than distance D2 while the second portion 314n has a width or dimension W 1 that is equal to or slightly greater than distance D 1. When the trays 310 are assembled together such that the first parts 314a of a above tray are received into the second parts 314b of a below tray. When the above tray 310 is closed relative to the below tray 310, the pin structures 314d are received into the opening first portions 314m with the flat sides 314e, 314f being horizontal and parallel to a bottom wall of the tray main body 312. In the example shown, the curved sides 314g,
314h have a circular shape that generally matches that of the first portion 314m. In this position, the above tray 310 can be freely rotated towards and into an intermediate open position, as is illustrated at Figures 53 to 56 with the pin structures 314d remaining in the opening first portions 314m. As the above tray 310 is rotated to an angle al, the flat sides 314e, 314f align with the opening second portions 314n, at which point, the pin structures 314d can drop into the opening second portions 314n by the force of gravity or by manipulation by an operator. Once in this position, the flat sides 314e, 314f of the pin structures 314d engage against the sides of the opening second portions 314n, thereby preventing the tray 310 from being rotated in either direction. Accordingly, once in this position, the above tray 310 is locked in the open position and cannot be rotated back to the closed position without physically lifting the above tray 310 such that the pin structures 314d are held within the opening first portions 314m. In the example shown, the angle al can be characterized as the angle between the flat sides 314e, 314f and the sides of the openings of second portion 314n. In some examples, the angle al is between 45 degrees and 135 degrees. In one example, the angle al is about 95 degrees. As shown, each tray is provided with two first and second parts 314a, 314b. More or fewer may be provided.
[0173] With continued reference to Figures 61 to 68, each tray 310 is further provided with a first part 316a and a second part 316b of the positioning arrangement 316. The first and second parts 316a, 316b of adjacent trays 310 cooperate together to resist lateral movement between adjacent trays 310. In one aspect, the first part 316a includes a pair of base portion extensions 316c extending from the main body 312 and a pin structure 316d extending between the base portion extensions 316c. The pin structure 316d is provided with a vertical slot or channel structure 316e. In one aspect, the second part 316b is provided with a base portion 316f extending from the tray main body 312. The base portion 316f is formed as a deflectable L-shaped extension and presents a vertical protrusion or extension 316g that has a complementary shape to the slot structure 316e. As can be seen at Figures 48 to 60, when the pin structures 314d of one tray 310 are received into the openings 314k of a below tray 310, to form a rotatable connection, the protrusion 316g of the positioning arrangement 316 is engaged into the slot structure 316e such that lateral displacement of the upper tray 310 is resisted when the upper tray 310 is in the closed and open positions. Any of the trays 310 in the stack may be rotated and secured into the open position in such a manner so as to allow access to the tray below.
Tray Assembly 400
[0174] Referring to Figures 69 to 89, a fourth example of a tray assembly 400 is presented. As shown, the tray assembly 400 includes a plurality of stacked trays 410 rotatably connected to and supported by each other. In the example shown, three stacked trays 410 are illustrated. However, fewer or more trays 410 may be provided, for example, two, four, five, or more trays 410 may be stacked together. [0175] As shown, each tray 410 is provided with a main body portion 412, a connection arrangement 414, and a positioning arrangement 416. The connection arrangement 414 of one tray 410 interconnects with the connection arrangement 414 of another tray 410 such that the trays 410 are rotatable with respect to each other. The positioning arrangements 416 of adjacent trays 410 engage each other to hold an above tray in an open position. In some examples, each tray 410 can be also provided with an optional removable cover portion (not shown) which can be connected to the tray main body portion 412 via a snap-fit connection.
[0176] In some examples, the main body portion 412, connection arrangement 414, and positioning arrangement 416 of each tray 410 are unitarily formed as a single component. In some examples, the trays 410 are formed from a polymeric material, such as an ABS polycarbonate material. The cover portions, where provided, may also be formed of a polymeric material or another material, such as a metal material.
[0177] Referring to Figures 81 to 89, a single tray 410 is shown in isolation. As presented, each tray 410 is provided with a first part 414a of the connection arrangement and a second part 414b of the connection arrangement 414. The first and second parts 414a,
414b of adjacent trays cooperate together to form a hinged or rotatable connection. In one aspect, the first part 414a includes a base portion 414c extending from the main body 412 and a pin structure 414d extending laterally from the base portion 414c. In one aspect, the second part 414b includes abase portion 414e defining a cylindrical opening 414f extending laterally between ends of the base portion 414e. As shown, each tray 410 is provided with two first and second parts 414a, 414b. More or fewer may be provided.
[0178] With continued reference to Figures 81 to 89, each tray 410 is further provided with a first part 416a and a second part 416b of the positioning arrangement 416. The first and second parts 416a, 416b of adjacent trays cooperate together to hold an above tray 410 in an open position with respect to a below tray 410. In one aspect, the first part 416a includes a base portion 416c extending from the main body 412 and a latch portion 416d. In one aspect, the second part 416b is provided with a base portion 416e extending from the tray main body 412. The base portion 416e is provided with a catch portion 416f configured to engaged with the latch portion 416d when the above tray 410 is rotated to a predetermined opening angle. The second part 416b is also provided with a deflectable extension tab 416g extending laterally from the base portion 416e. [0179] As can be seen at Figures 69 to 78, the pin structures 414d of one tray 410 is received into the openings 414e of a below tray 410 to form a rotatable connection. In this position, the deflectable extension tabs 416g of the below trays 410 engage against one of the second parts 414b of the above trays 410 to prevent or resist lateral movement that would cause the trays to become disengaged from each other. The extension tab 416g can be deflected inward towards the main body 412 to disengage the trays 410 from each other. Figures 69-74 show the trays 410 rotated to a closed position such that all trays 410 are adjacent to each other. In this position, the latch portion 416d of the above tray 410 is disengaged from the catch portion 416f of the below tray 410. Figures 75 to 78 show the top tray 410 rotated into an open position, which is shown as being about 90 degrees. In this position, the latch portion 416d of the uppermost tray 410 is engaged with the catch portion 416f of the below tray 410. In one aspect, the first part 416a of the positioning arrangement can be deflectable such that the first part 416a initially deflects after contact with the second part 416b when the tray is being rotated open, and then snaps or returns to its relaxed state once the open position is achieved and the latch portion 416d is engaged with the catch portion 416f. It is noted that the second part 416b is supported by an end wall of the main body 412 that has adjacent cable routing pathways extending therethrough. Accordingly, the end wall can also be resilient or deflectable to facilitate deflection when there is interference between the catch portion 416f and the latch portion 416d. With a sufficient closing force exerted on the open or upper tray 410, the latch portion 416d will disengage from the catch portion 416f such that the tray 410 can be returned to the closed position.
Tray Assembly 500
[0180] Referring to Figures 93 to 1 lOg, a fifth example of a tray assembly 500 is presented. As shown, the tray assembly 500 includes a plurality of stacked trays 510 rotatably connected to and supported by each other. In the example shown, two stacked trays 510 are illustrated. However, more trays 510 may be provided, for example, three, four, five, or more trays 510 may be stacked together.
[0181] As shown, each tray 510 is provided with a main body portion 512, a connection arrangement 514, and a positioning arrangement 516. The connection arrangement 514 of one tray 510 interconnects with the connection arrangement 514 of another tray 510 such that the trays 510 are rotatable with respect to each other. The positioning arrangements 516 of a below tray engage with the connection arrangement 514 of an above tray to resist lateral movement between the trays that would cause the trays 510 to become disengaged from each other. In some examples, each tray 510 can be also provided with an optional removable cover portion (not shown) which can be connected to the tray main body portion 512 via a snap-fit connection.
[0182] In some examples, the main body portion 512, connection arrangement 514, and positioning arrangement 516 of each tray 510 are unitarily formed as a single component. In some examples, the trays 510 are formed from a polymeric material, such as an ABS polycarbonate material. The cover portions, where provided, may also be formed of a polymeric material or another material, such as a metal material.
[0183] Referring to Figures 102 to 109a, a single tray 510 is shown in isolation. As presented, each tray 510 is provided with a first part 514a of the connection arrangement and a second part 514b of the connection arrangement 514. The first and second parts 514a, 514b of adjacent trays cooperate together to form a hinged or rotatable connection. In one aspect, the first part 514a includes a base portion 514c extending from the main body 512 and a pin structure 514d extending laterally from the base portion 514c. In one aspect, the second part 514b includes a base portion 514e defining a cylindrical opening 514f extending laterally between ends of the base portion 514e. Each second part 516b is also provided with a radiused comer 514h, a surface 514g, a radiused comer 514i, a surface 514j, and a radiused comer 514k. In one aspect, the surface 514j is a vertical straight surface, orthogonal to a horizontal axis 514x and parallel to an end wall of the tray main body, that extends from the radiused comer 514i to the radiused comer 514k, wherein the surface 514j extends above and below the horizontal axis 514x extending through the centerline of the opening 514f and wherein the radiused comer 514h is located entirely below the opening 514f. In one aspect, the surface 514g is sloped towards the axis 514x as the surface extends away from the main body 512 of the tray 510 such that an acute angle is formed between the surface 514g and the axis 514x. As shown, each tray 510 is provided with two first and second parts 514a, 514b. More or fewer may be provided.
[0184] With continued reference to Figures 102 to 109, each tray 510 is further provided with a first part 516a of the positioning arrangement 516. The first part 516a is configured as an L-shaped, deflectable member extending laterally towards one of the second parts 514b. The first part 516a is configured to engage against the second part 514b of an above tray to prevent the above tray from laterally moving and becoming disconnected from the below tray. The first part 516a can be deflected inward towards the main body 512 to disengage the trays 510 from each other.
[0185] As can be seen at Figures 90 to 99 and 110a to 1 lOg, the pin structures 514d of one tray 510 are received into the openings 514f of a below tray 410 to form a rotatable connection. Figures 90-95 show the trays 510 rotated to a closed position such that all trays 510 are adjacent to each other. In this position, upper and lower rounded contact surfaces 514g, 514h of adjacent trays are out of contact with each other such that the trays 510 are freely rotatable. Figures 96 to 99 and lOOg show the top tray 510 rotated into an open position, which is shown as being about 135 degrees. To achieve this position, the top tray 510 is rotated progressively, as illustrated at Figures 110a to lOOg. At Figure 110a, the top tray 510 is in the closed position such that both trays, as shown on the page, are in a horizontal position. At Figure 110b, the top tray 510 has been rotated 65 degrees from the closed position, wherein the radiused comer 514h of the top tray 510 makes contact with the surface 514g of the lower tray. At Figures 110c to 1 lOe, the tray is rotated from 70 degrees to 85 degrees and through the resulting interference between the comer 514h of the top tray and the surface 514g and comer 514i. Through these positions, the operator must exert an opening force to overcome the force resulting from the interference. At Figure 1 lOf, the top tray 510 has been rotated 90 degrees, the point which is past the interference. In this position, the top tray 510 is held in the open position and prevented from rotating back into the closed position by the previously described interference. With a sufficient closing force exerted on the open or upper tray 510, this interference resistance can be overcome such that the above tray 510 can be returned to the closed position. At Figure 1 lOg, the top tray is rotated through 135 degrees where it can be seen that the radiused comer 514h makes contact with the surface 514j . In one aspect, the surface 514j acts as a limit or stop for the opening of the top tray 510. As the top tray 510 is rotated past 90 degrees in this position, the top tray 510 can be characterized as being retained in the open position due to the force of gravity. It is noted that the second part 516b is supported by an end wall of the main body 512 that has adjacent cable routing pathways extending therethrough. Accordingly, the end wall can also be resilient or deflectable to facilitate deflection when the interference between surfaces 514h, 514g/514i occurs. [0186] From the forgoing detailed description, it will be evident that modifications and variations can be made in the aspects of the disclosure without departing from the spirit or scope of the aspects. While the best modes for carrying out the many aspects of the present teachings have been described in detail, those familiar with the art to which these teachings relate will recognize various alternative aspects for practicing the present teachings that are within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

We Claim:
1. A telecommunications tray assembly comprising: a) a first telecommunications tray including a first connection arrangement having a pin structure; and b) a second telecommunications tray including a second connection arrangement defining a keyhole-shaped opening for receiving the pin structure, the keyhole shaped opening defining a first opening portion and a second opening portion, the first and second connection arrangements rotatably connecting the first tray to the second tray; c) wherein the first telecommunications tray can be rotated between open and closed positions with respect to the second telecommunications tray when the pin structure resides within the first opening portion, and wherein the first telecommunications tray is held in the open position when the pin structure resides within the second opening portion.
2. The telecommunications tray assembly of claim 1, wherein the first and second telecommunications trays each include the first and second connection arrangements.
3. The telecommunications tray assembly of claim 1 or 2, wherein the first telecommunications tray includes two first connection arrangements and the second telecommunications tray includes two second connection arrangements.
4. The telecommunications tray assembly of any of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first and second telecommunications trays are identical.
5. The telecommunications tray assembly of claim 1, wherein when the first telecommunications tray is held in the open position, the first telecommunications tray is rotated greater than 90 degrees with respect to the second telecommunications tray.
6. The telecommunications tray assembly of claim 1, wherein the pin structure has a non-round cross sectional shape.
7. The telecommunications tray assembly of claim 6, wherein the pin structure has a first pair of flat sides and the second opening portion has a complementarily shaped second pair of flat sides.
8. A telecommunications tray assembly comprising: a) a first telecommunications tray including a first connection arrangement; and b) a second telecommunications tray including a second connection arrangement, the first and second connection arrangements rotatably connecting the first tray to the second tray; c) wherein the first telecommunications tray can be locked into an open position relative to the second telecommunications tray by laterally displacing the first telecommunications tray with respect to the second telecommunications tray.
9. The telecommunications tray assembly of claim 8, wherein the first and second telecommunications trays each include the first and second connection arrangements.
10. The telecommunications tray assembly of claim 8 or 9, wherein the first connection arrangement includes one of an opening structure and a pin structure and the second connection arrangement includes the other of the opening structure and the pin structure.
11. The telecommunications tray assembly of claim 10, further including a lock recess on one of the opening structure and the pin structure and a lock protrusion on the other of the opening structure and the pin structure.
12. The telecommunications tray assembly of claim 11, wherein the lock recess is a recess formed in the opening structure and the lock protrusion is a protrusion extending from the pin structure.
13. The telecommunications tray assembly of any of claims 8 to 12, wherein the first telecommunications tray is prevented from being laterally displaced into the locked position unless the first telecommunications tray is rotated into the open position.
14. The telecommunications tray assembly of any of claims 8 to 13, wherein the first and second telecommunications trays are identical.
15. A telecommunications tray assembly comprising : a) a first telecommunications tray including a first connection arrangement; b) a second telecommunications tray including a second connection arrangement, the first and second connection arrangements rotatably connecting the first tray to the second tray; and c) a lock member slidably mounted to the second telecommunications tray, wherein the lock member is movable to selectively lock the first telecommunications tray into an open position relative to the second telecommunications tray.
16. The telecommunications tray assembly of claim 15, wherein the first and second telecommunications trays each include the first and second connection arrangements.
17. The telecommunications tray assembly of claim 15, wherein the first telecommunications tray includes a lock member slidably mounted to the second telecommunications tray.
18. The telecommunications tray assembly of any of claims 15 to 17, wherein the first and second telecommunications trays are identical.
19. The telecommunications tray assembly of claim 15, wherein the lock member includes a first stop interacting with a surface of the second telecommunications tray to define an unlocked position of the lock member.
20. The telecommunications tray assembly of claim 19, wherein the lock member includes a second stop interacting with a surface of the second telecommunications tray to define a locked position of the lock member.
21. The telecommunications tray assembly of claim 15, wherein the lock member includes a stop interacting with a surface of the second telecommunications tray to define a locked position of the lock member.
22. A telecommunications tray assembly comprising: a) a first telecommunications tray including a first connection arrangement and a latch member; and b) a second telecommunications tray including a second connection arrangement and a catch member, the first and second connection arrangements rotatably connecting the first tray to the second tray; c) wherein when the first telecommunications tray is rotated into an open position relative to the second telecommunications tray, the latch member engages with the catch member to retain the first telecommunications tray in the open position.
23. The telecommunications tray assembly of claim 22, wherein the first and second telecommunications trays each include the first and second connection arrangements.
24. The telecommunications tray assembly of claim 22 or 23, wherein the first telecommunications tray includes two first connection arrangements and the second telecommunications tray includes two second connection arrangements.
25. The telecommunications tray assembly of any of claims 22 to 24, wherein the first telecommunications tray includes a single latch member and the second telecommunications tray includes a single catch member.
26. The telecommunications tray assembly of claim 25, wherein the latch and catch members are aligned along longitudinal axes of the first and second telecommunications trays.
27. The telecommunications tray assembly of any of claims 22 to 26, wherein the first telecommunications tray includes a catch member and the second telecommunications tray includes a latch member.
28. The telecommunications tray assembly of any of claims 22 to 27, wherein the first and second telecommunications trays are identical.
29. A telecommunications tray assembly comprising: a) a first telecommunications tray including a first connection arrangement and a first contact surface supported by a free-standing sidewall extending between cable routing apertures; and b) a second telecommunications tray including a second connection arrangement and a second contact surface supported by a free-standing sidewall extending between cable routing apertures, the first and second connection arrangements rotatably connecting the first tray to the second tray; c) wherein when the first telecommunications tray is rotated into an open position relative to the second telecommunications tray, the first contact surface interferes with and rotates past the second contact surface to provide a resisting force against moving the first telecommunications tray back into the closed position.
30. The telecommunications tray assembly of claim 29, wherein the first and second telecommunications trays each include the first and second connection arrangements.
31. The telecommunications tray assembly of claim 29 or 30, wherein the first telecommunications tray includes two first connection arrangements and the second telecommunications tray includes two second connection arrangements.
32. The telecommunications tray assembly of any of claims 29 to 31, wherein the first and second telecommunications trays are identical.
33. The telecommunications tray assembly of any of claims 29 to 32, wherein the first contact surface engages against a third contact surface of the second telecommunications tray to provide a stop to prevent further opening of the first telecommunications tray.
34. The telecommunications tray assembly of any of claims 29 to 33, wherein the third contact surface is parallel to the free-standing sidewall of the second telecommunications tray.
35. The telecommunications tray assembly of any of claims 29 to 34, wherein the second contact surface is sloped with respect to a top surface of the second telecommunications tray.
PCT/US2022/034521 2021-06-22 2022-06-22 Tray hinge system WO2022271821A1 (en)

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US63/202,735 2021-06-22

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Citations (5)

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US20160103289A1 (en) * 2013-02-05 2016-04-14 Adc Telecommunications, Inc. Slidable telecommunications tray with cable slack management
US20170276892A1 (en) * 2014-09-16 2017-09-28 Tyco Electronics Raychem Bvba Telecommunications tray with a cable routing path extending through a pivot hinge
US20200110238A1 (en) * 2014-09-16 2020-04-09 CommScope Connectivity Belgium BVBA Telecommunications tray assembly
WO2020150392A1 (en) * 2019-01-15 2020-07-23 Commscope Technologies Llc Tray hinge system
WO2020205572A1 (en) * 2019-03-29 2020-10-08 Commscope Technologies Llc Tray hinge interface system

Patent Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20160103289A1 (en) * 2013-02-05 2016-04-14 Adc Telecommunications, Inc. Slidable telecommunications tray with cable slack management
US20170276892A1 (en) * 2014-09-16 2017-09-28 Tyco Electronics Raychem Bvba Telecommunications tray with a cable routing path extending through a pivot hinge
US20200110238A1 (en) * 2014-09-16 2020-04-09 CommScope Connectivity Belgium BVBA Telecommunications tray assembly
WO2020150392A1 (en) * 2019-01-15 2020-07-23 Commscope Technologies Llc Tray hinge system
WO2020205572A1 (en) * 2019-03-29 2020-10-08 Commscope Technologies Llc Tray hinge interface system

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