TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention generally relates to telecommunications systems that utilize fiber optic cable, and more particularly relates to hardware for effectuating fiber optic terminations.

BACKGROUND

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

Designers and installers of fiber optic networks are often confronted with significant space constraints. For example, termination points of fiber optic cabling (e.g., between the service provider and customer) require a dedicated space to accommodate and protect the fiber optic equipment such as fiber optic splices, connectors, cassettes, optical circuits, etc., which can be limited to relatively small cabinets, data centers, and storage area networks. Consequently, network designers are constantly seeking ways to optimize space-efficiency.

High density fiber optic cassettes have evolved as one solution to provide space-efficient fiber optic terminations. Fiber optic cassettes are standardized modules having a number of ports that are complementary to a standardized endpoint structure for fiber optic cables, such as an SC or LC connector. These ports provide a plug-and-socket functionality that allows an installer to easily effectuate multiple terminations in an efficient, organized manner. Multiple fiber optic cassettes are typically mounted together in a storage system. For instance, fiber optic cassette shelves are used to secure and store multiple fiber optic cassettes, e.g., 25 cassettes or more, together in a space efficient manner.

In some instances, storage is required for only a few fiber optic cassettes, e.g., five or fewer. In these cases, larger storage solutions such as fiber optic cassette shelves are not space efficient, and add significant additional expense to the installation. Smaller termination spaces, such as customer premises, could benefit from a way to store one or a few fiber optic cassettes in a space-efficient, user friendly manner.

SUMMARY

An optical hardware mounting bracket is disclosed. According to an embodiment, the optical hardware mounting bracket includes a first planar section, a second planar section forming an angled intersection with the first planar section at a first end of the second planar section, and a third planar section forming an angled intersection at a second end of the second planar section, the second end being opposite the first end. The bracket further includes an opening in the first planar section that meets an opening in the second planar section at the angled intersection between the first and second planar sections so as to form an enclosed central opening in the bracket. The first and third planar sections extend away from the second planar section in opposite directions. The first planar section includes a fiber optic cable retention feature. The second planar section includes outer sets of fastener perforations and an inner set of fastener perforations, the inner set of fastener perforations being closer to the opening in the second planar section, the outer set of fastener perforations being closer to outer edge sides of the second planar section. The third planar section includes one or more fastener perforations.

According to another embodiment, the optical hardware mounting bracket includes a first planar section, a second planar section forming an angled intersection with the first planar section at a first end of the second planar section, and a third planar section forming an angled intersection at a second end of the second planar section, the second end being opposite the first end. The bracket further includes a receptacle in the second planar section being dimensioned to receive a fiber optic cassette, a pair of outer fastener perforations on the second planar section, and an inner pair of fastener perforations on the second planar section. The inner pair of fastener perforations are spaced closer to the receptacle than the outer fastener perforations. The bracket further includes at least one fastener perforation on the third planar section.

An optical hardware mounting assembly is disclosed. According to an embodiment, the optical hardware mounting assembly includes an optical hardware mounting bracket. The bracket includes a first planar section, a second planar section forming an angled intersection with the first planar section at a first end of the second planar section, and a third planar section forming an angled intersection at a second end of the second planar section, the second end being opposite the first end. The bracket further includes an opening in the first planar section that meets an opening in the second planar section at the angled intersection between the first and second planar sections so as to form an enclosed central opening in the bracket, and a planar rear platform connected to an end of the third planar section that is opposite the angled intersection between the second and third planar sections. The third planar section and the rear platform extend away from the second planar section in an opposite direction as the first planar section. The rear platform includes at least one of: a fiber optic cable retention feature, and a fiber optic splice module retention feature. Of course, the present invention is not limited to the above features and advantages. Indeed, those skilled in the art will recognize additional features and advantages upon reading the following detailed description, and upon viewing the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Fig. 1 depicts an optical hardware mounting bracket from an isometric perspective, according to an embodiment.

Fig. 2, which includes Figs. 2A, 2B and 2C, depicts the optical hardware mounting bracket from various perspectives, according to an embodiment. Fig. 2A depicts a plan view of the first and third planar sections of the bracket. Fig. 2B depicts a side view of the first, second and third planar sections of the bracket. Fig. 2C depicts a plan view of the second planar section of the bracket.

Fig. 3 depicts an optical hardware mounting bracket with a fiber optic cassette being secured to the bracket from an isometric perspective, according to an embodiment.

Fig. 4, which includes Figs. 4A, 4B and 4C, depicts an optical hardware mounting bracket with a fiber optic cassette being secured to the bracket from various perspectives, according to an embodiment. Fig. 4A depicts a plan view of the first and third planar sections of the bracket. Fig. 4B depicts a side view of the first, second and third planar sections of the bracket. Fig. 4C depicts a plan view of the second planar section of the bracket.

Fig. 5, which includes Figs. 5A and 5B, depicts an optical hardware mounting bracket being mounted to an optical distribution frame, according to an embodiment. Fig. 5A depicts a complete view of the optical distribution frame. Fig. 5B depicts a close up view of the bracket and one side of the optical distribution frame.

Fig. 6 depicts an optical hardware mounting bracket with a fiber optic cassette being secured to the bracket that is mounted to an optical distribution frame, according to an embodiment.

Fig. 7 depicts an optical hardware mounting bracket with a fiber optic cassette being secured to the bracket that is flush mounted against a wall, according to an embodiment.

Fig. 8, which includes Figs. 8A, 8B, and 8C, depicts an optical hardware assembly that includes an optical hardware mounting bracket with a rear platform and a protective lid, according to an embodiment. Fig. 8A depicts an isometric view of the assembly. Fig. 8B depicts a plan view of the assembly. Fig. 8C depicts a side view of the assembly.

Fig. 9, which includes Figs. 9A, 9B, and 9C, depicts the optical hardware assembly of Fig. 8 with the protective lid being closed, according to an embodiment. Fig. 9A depicts an isometric view of the assembly. Fig. 9B depicts a plan view of the assembly. Fig. 9C depicts a side view of the assembly.

Fig. 10 depicts the optical hardware assembly of Fig. 8 with a cassette being secured to the bracket and the lid opened, according to an embodiment.

Fig. 11 depicts the optical hardware assembly of Fig. 8 with a cassette being secured to the bracket and the lid closed, according to an embodiment.

Fig. 12 depicts the optical hardware assembly of Fig. 8 with optical splice modules being secured to the rear platform and the lid opened, according to an embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A bracket that is designed to secure and store a number of fiber optic cassettes (e.g., 1, 2 or 3) within a fiber optic termination space is described herein. According to an embodiment, the bracket includes three planar sections that form angled intersections with one another. More particularly, a first planar section of the bracket is substantially perpendicular to a second planar section of the bracket, and a third planar section of the bracket is substantially perpendicular to the second planar section, with the first and third planar section extending away in opposite directions. The second planar section includes a receptacle that is dimensioned to receive one or several fiber optic cassettes. Fastener perforations in the second planar section that are adjacent the receptacle allow the cassette to be secure to the bracket using, e.g., push pins.

The bracket has a versatile design that allows an installer to store fiber optic cassettes in a space efficient manner, in a variety of different termination site spaces. For instance, if a termination site has even just a small amount of available rack space, e.g., one "rack unit" or "RU" in a standard optical distribution frame, the bracket can fit within this space. The bracket can be secured to one of the rails of the frame using fastener perforations that are disposed on the second planar section. Moreover, the bracket uses less than one half the width of a conventional rack so that two of the brackets can be laterally stored next to one another in one RU.

Alternatively, if no rack space is available or the space does not include a rack, the bracket can be affixed to an open planar surface, such as a wall, with the third planar surface being flush against the wall. In either mounting configuration, the first planar section of the bracket advantageously provides a surface that secures and protects fiber optic cabling that is plugged into the cassette.

According to one embodiment, the multipurpose mounting bracket additionally includes a rear platform that connects to an end of the third planar section and extends away from the second planar section in the same direction as the third planar section. The rear platform section provides an area for mounting and storing optical circuitry and cabling. For instance, an optical splice holder can be mounted to the rear platform section. In addition or in the alternative, fiber optic cabling can be securely affixed to the rear platform section. An optional lid that covers and protects the optical circuitry and cabling that is secured to the rear platform can be included in the assembly.

Referring to Figs. 1-4, an optical hardware mounting bracket 100 is depicted, according to an embodiment. Figs. 1-2 depict the bracket 100 from various vantage points without a fiber optic cassette being secured to the bracket 100. Figs. 3-4 depict the bracket 100 from the same vantage points as Figs. 1-2 with a fiber optic cassette 102 being secured to the bracket 100. In the depicted embodiment, two fiber optic cassettes 102 are secured to the bracket 100. Generally speaking, the fiber optic cassette 102 can be any of a variety of commercially available fiber optic cassettes 102. According to specific embodiments, the fiber optic cassette 102 is compatible with an LGX® fiber optic cassette shelf, which is an industry standard fiber optic cassette shelf. An LGX® fiber optic cassette shelf includes spaced apart rails with fastener perforations. The spacing between pairs of vertical fastener perforations is about 125 mm. An LGX® compatible fiber optic cassette is designed to be secured to one of the pairs of vertical fastener perforations is about 125 mm using, e.g., push pins. An example of an LGX® compatible fiber optic cassette is a HiD4 cassette, which is manufactured by All Systems Broadband®. In the following description, dimensioning for the various features of the mounting bracket 100, e.g., width of the openings, spacing between fastener perforations, etc., is described for a bracket 100 that is compatible with a HiD4 cassette. More generally, the bracket 100 can be designed to accommodate of a variety of commercially available fiber optic cassettes 102, including any LGX®-compatible fiber optic cassette, by appropriately tailoring the dimensioning for the various features of the mounting bracket 100.

Referring to Figs. 1-2, the bracket 100 includes a first planar section 104, a second planar section 106 that forms an angled intersection with the first planar section 104, and a third planar section 108 that forms an angled intersection with the second planar section 106. The angled intersection between the first planar section 104 and the second planar section 106 occurs at a first end 110 of the second planar section 106. The angled intersection between the third planar section 108 and the second planar section 106 occurs at a second end 112 of the second planar section 106 that is opposite from the first end 110. Thus, the first and third planar sections 104, 108 adjoin the second planar section 106 at opposite ends of the second planar section 106. The first and third planar sections 104, 108 extend away from the second planar section 106 in opposite directions. This can be seen from the side-view perspective of Fig. 2B in which the first planar section 104 extends vertically downward away from the second planar section 106 and the third planar section 108 extends vertically upward away from the second planar section 106. From this perspective, the first, second and third planar sections 104, 106 and 108 have a step shape.

According to an embodiment, the first planar section 104 is substantially perpendicular to the second planar section 106, and the second planar section 106 is substantially perpendicular to the third planar section 108. That is, an angle measured between inward facing faces of the first and second planar sections 104, 106 is approximately ninety degrees, and an angle measured between inward facing faces of the second and third planar sections 106, 108 is also

approximately ninety degrees. As a result, the first and third planar sections 104, 108 are approximately parallel to one another, and an offset distance between the planes of the first and third planar correlates to a length of the second planar section 106.

The bracket 100 includes centrally located openings in the first and second planar sections 104, 106. In the depicted embodiment, an opening 114 in the first planar section 104 meets the opening 116 in the second planar section 106 at the angled intersection between the first and second planar sections 104, 106. Thus, the bracket 100 includes a continuous opening that spans across the first and second planar sections 104, 106 and is completely enclosed.

The opening 114 in the first planar section 104 is enclosed by first, second and third spans 118, 120, 122 of the first planar section 104. The first and second spans 118, 120 both form the angled intersection with the second planar section 106, and are spaced apart from one another. The third span 122 adjoins and extends between the first and second spans 118, 120. Thus, the first, second and third spans 118, 120 and 122 collectively form a U-shaped structure.

The opening 114 in the first planar section 104 is defined by inner edge sides 124 of the first, second and third spans 118, 120 and 122. According to an embodiment, the inner edge sides 124 of the first and second spans 118, 120 are parallel to one another, and the inner edge side 124 of the third span 122 is perpendicular to the inner edge sides 124 of the first and second spans 118, 120. This geometry represents just one of a variety of different examples for the opening 114 in the first planar section 104. More generally, the opening 114 in the first planar section 104 can have any geometry that provides the installer with an access window to easily work with the front facing connectors of the cassettes 102, e.g., as depicted in Fig. 4A. For example, instead of a rectangular shaped opening 114, the opening 114 can have curved edges and/or non-perpendicular angles. Moreover, the opening 114 in the first planar section 104 does not necessarily extend to the angled intersection between the first and second planar sections 104, 106. That is, the opening 114 in the first planar section 104 can be completely enclosed on each side within the first planar section 104.

Fiber optic cable retention features 126 can be disposed on the first planar section 104. In the depicted embodiments, the fiber optic cable retention features 126 are configured as pairs of parallel and spaced apart slits, i.e., elongated perforations that run parallel to one another. These pairs of parallel and spaced apart slits are disposed on the third span 122 of the first planar section 104. One pair of slits is disposed near the center of the third span 122 and two pairs of the slits are disposed near the outer edges of the third span 122. The outer pairs of slits 122 are angled (i.e., non-parallel to) the central pair of slits 122. As will illustrated and described in further detail below, these pairs of slits provide an anchor point for a circular tether (e.g., a span of Velcro ® or a zip tie) to secure fiber optic cabling against the first planar section 104. The depicted embodiment represents just one of a variety of possible configurations for the fiber optic cable retention features 126. More generally, the fiber optic cable retention features 126 can be any interruption in the otherwise planar surface of the first planar section 104 that provides a fastening point for the securing of fiber optic cabling thereto. For example, instead of a pair of slits, the fiber optic cable retention features 126 can be configured as planar structures that form an angled intersection with the first planar section 104. For example, the fiber optic cable retention features 126 can be configured as rectangular planes that are disposed at an acute or perpendicular angle relative to the first planar section 104. Alternatively, the fiber optic cable retention features 126 can have a hook shape that provides partial or complete retention of fiber optic cable. Moreover, in the embodiments in which the cable retention features 126 are configured as pairs of slits, the location and number of slits can vary from what is shown in the depicted embodiments.

According to an embodiment, the first planar section 104 includes rounded corners 128 at transitions between outer edge sides of the first and second spans 118, 120 and the third span 122. In the depicted embodiment, the first and second spans 118, 120 include straight outer edge sides and the third span 122 includes a straight outer edge side that is perpendicular to the straight outer edge sides first and second spans 118, 120. The rounded corners 128 provide a blunted, gradual transition between these outer edge side portions instead of abrupt corners. One advantage of this configuration is that it prevents loose fiber optic cabling from snagging and potentially breaking along an exposed sharp corner of the bracket 100.

The opening 116 in the second planar section 106 is disposed between first and second spans 130, 132 (identified in Fig. 2C) of the second planar section 106. The opening 116 in the second planar section 106 is defined by first, second, and third inner edge sides 134, 136, and 138 (identified in Fig. 1) of the bracket 100. The first and second inner edge sides 134, 136 are spaced apart from one another, and the third inner edge side 138 extends between the first and second edge sides 134, 136. According to an embodiment, the first and second inner edge sides 134, 136 are perpendicular to the third inner edge side 138. Thus, the opening 116 in the second planar section 106 has a rectangular shape. The third edge side 138 may be parallel to the angled intersection between the second and third planar sections 106, 108.

In the depicted embodiment, the opening 116 in the second planar section 106 extends to the angled intersection between the first and second planar sections 106, 108. As a result, the bracket 100 includes a continuous opening in the center of the bracket 100. According to other embodiments (not depicted), the opening 116 in the second planar section 106 does not extend to the angled intersection between the first and second planar sections 106, 108 and/or does not meet the opening 114 in the first planar section 104. Also in the depicted embodiment, the opening 116 in the second planar section 106 extends to the angled intersection between the second and third planar sections 106, 108. Alternatively, the opening 116 in the second planar section 106 may not reach the angled intersection between the second and third planar sections 106, 108. For example, according to an embodiment, the opening 116 in the second planar section 106 is bounded by an inner edge side that is parallel to and spaced apart from the angled intersection between the second and third planar sections 106, 108. As a result, the second planar section 106 includes a continuous connection between the first and second spans 130, 132 of the second planar section 106.

The opening 116 in the second planar section 106 is configured as a receptacle that is dimensioned to receive one or more of the fiber optic cassettes 102. That is, the dimensioning of the first, second, and third inner edge sides 134, 136, and 138 can be selected such that a fiber optic cassette 102 loosely fits in opening 116 in the second planar section 106. To this end, the distance between the first and second inner edge sides 134, 136 of the opening 116 in the second planar section 106 can correspond to the width of a fiber optic cassette 102. For example, this distance can be in the range of 100 to 150 millimeters. According to one particular embodiment, the distance between the first and second inner edge sides 134, 136 of the opening 116 in the second planar section 106 is approximately 115 millimeters, which corresponds to the height of the cassette 102. The length of the first and second inner edge sides 134, 136 of the opening 116 in the second planar section 106 can correspond to the width of one, two, or more than two fiber optic cassettes 102. For example, the length of the first and second inner edge sides 134, 136 of the opening 116 in the second planar section 106 can be approximately 30.5 millimeters, which corresponds to the width of two cassettes 102 stacked together as shown in Figs. 3-4.

The second planar section 106 can include sets of fastener perforations 140 that have different lateral spacing. More particularly, in the depicted embodiment, the second planar section 106 includes inner sets 142 (identified in Fig. 2C) of fastener perforations 140 and outer sets of fastener perforations 140 (identified in Fig. 2C). Each of the fastener perforations 140 in the inner and outer sets 142, 144 can have a generally circular shape that is dimensioned to accommodate a cylindrical fastening mechanism (e.g., pin, bolt, screw, etc.). According to an embodiment, each of the fastener perforations 140 in the inner and outer sets 142, 144 have a diameter of between 5 and 10 mm, and more particularly of about 7 mm, which is sufficient to accommodate a commercially available push pin for a fiber optic cassette 102, and/or a variety of commercially available screws.

In the depicted embodiment, the bracket 100 includes three inner sets 142 of fastener perforations 140 on the second planar section 106. The inner sets 142 of fastener perforations 140 are spaced closer to the opening 116 in the second planar section 106 than the outer sets 144 of fastener perforations 140. The inner sets 142 of fastener perforations 140 are vertically aligned with one another. That is, as between the fastener perforations 140 of different inner sets 142, the fastener perforations 140 are parallel to one another in a vertical direction (V) (identified in Fig. 2C) and overlap with one another in the vertical direction (V). Moreover, the fastener perforations 140 of each inner set can be laterally aligned in a lateral direction (L) (identified in Fig. 2C) that is perpendicular to the vertical direction (V).

The vertical spacing between the inner sets 142 of fastener perforations 140 can be correlated to the dimensioning of one or more fiber optic cassette 102 types. In the depicted embodiment, the inner sets 142 of fastener perforations 140 are vertically spaced apart from one another in such a way that two cassettes 102 that are layered on top of one another can be secured to the upper and lower ones of the inner sets 142 of fastener perforations 140, with the middle inner set 142 of fastener perforations 140 being vacant. Using a cassette 102 that is a HiD4 cassette as an example, the vertical center to center spacing between the upper and lower ones of the inner sets 142 of fastener perforations 140 can be approximately 15.25 millimeters, which corresponds to the width of one cassettes 102. Alternatively, this configuration of the inner sets 142 of fastener perforations 140 allows for a single, wider fiber optic cassette 102 (i.e., a cassette with a width of greater than 15.25 millimeters) to be secured in the middle inner set 142 of fastener perforations 140, with the upper and lower ones of the inner sets 142 of fastener perforations 140 being vacant. More generally, the number of inner sets 142 of fastener perforations 140 and spacing between the inner sets 142 of fastener perforations 140 may vary depending upon, among other things, the dimensions of the cassette 102 to be secured to the bracket 100, and the number of cassettes 102 to be secured to the bracket 100.

The inner sets 142 of fastener perforations 140 can have a lateral center-to center spacing, as measured in the lateral direction (L) shown in Fig. 2, that is slightly greater than the width of the opening 116 in the second planar section 106. For example, the lateral center- to center spacing can be in the range of 100 to 150 millimeters. According to one particular embodiment, the lateral center-to center spacing is approximately 125 mm. This lateral center-to center corresponds to the center-to center spacing for the fasteners (e.g., push pins) of the cassettes 102 depicted in Figs. 1-2. More generally, the lateral center-to center spacing may vary depending upon, among other things, the dimensions of the cassette 102 to be secured to the bracket 100.

The outer sets 144 of fastener perforations 140 are disposed closer to the outer edge sides of the bracket 100 than the inner sets 142 of fastener perforations 140. The outer sets 144 of fastener perforations 140 are vertically aligned with one another. That is, as between the fastener perforations 140 of different outer sets 144, the fastener perforations 140 are parallel to one another in the vertical direction (V) and overlap with one another.

The outer sets 144 of fastener perforations 140 can be used to secure the second planar section 106 to an external surface. An example of this is shown in Figs. 5 A and 5B. An optical distribution frame 146 shown in Fig. 5 is illustrative of a frame that is commonly used in fiber optic termination areas to securely store fiber optic equipment such as fiber optic cabinets, cassette 102 shelves, etc. The optical distribution frame 146 includes two spaced apart rails 148, with each of the rails 148 having a plurality of fastener perforations 150 that are laterally aligned with corresponding fastener perforations 150 on the opposite rail 140. According to one common configuration, the optical distribution frame 146 is configured with "rack units" or "RUs" that represent the vertical footprint required to accommodate one standard sized fiber optic equipment rack. One RU corresponds to about 1.75 inches (44.5 mm) of vertical space. Each RU includes three vertically spaced apart fastener perforations 150. The vertical spacing for each RU has a repeating pattern. The vertical center-to-center spacing for three vertically spaced apart fastener perforations 150 can be ½", 5/8", 5/8", wherein the center point between the ½" fastener perforations 150 represents the boundary between adjacent RUs.

In the depicted embodiment, the outer sets 144 of fastener perforations 140 of the bracket 100 are configured to be compatible with the fastener perforations 150 optical distribution frame 146. More particularly, each bracket 100 includes three outer sets 144 of fastener perforations 140 that are vertically spaced apart from one another at regular intervals, e.g., about 5/8" (15.8 mm) vertical center-to-center intervals in one embodiment. Of course, this spacing value can be changed to adapt to any other rack configuration.

The bracket 100 can be secured to the frame 146 with at least one of the fastener perforations 140 in the outer set 144 aligning with one of the fastener perforations 150 of the frame 146. In the depicted embodiment, two fasteners 152 (e.g., screws) are inserted through upper and lower ones of the outer sets 144 of fastener perforations 140 and through aligned fastener perforations 150 of the frame 146. Using two fasteners 152 provides good rotational stability, which is particularly beneficial in configurations in which only one side of the bracket 100 is anchored, such as the configuration of Fig. 5. The above described alignment between the fastener perforations 140 of the bracket 100 and the fastener perforations 150 of the frame 146 is possible when the bracket 100 occupies one RU. In other configurations, the bracket 100 may overlap across two RUs. In this configuration not every fastener perforation 140 of the bracket 100 may align with every fastener perforation 150 of the frame 146. However, the bracket 100 can be positioned such that at least two fastener perforations 140 of the bracket 100 may align with two fastener perforations 150 of the frame 146. In that case, the aligned sets of fastener perforations 140 (e.g., the central set and the upper set or the central set and the lower set) can be used to secure the bracket 100 to the frame 146. In general, the number of outer sets 144 of fastener perforations 140 and the vertical spacing between the outer sets 144 of fastener perforations 140 may vary, depending upon, among other things, the vertical spacing between fastener perforations 140 of the optical distribution frame 146 and the desired vertical footprint (e.g., 1 RU, 1.5 RU, 2RU, etc.).

As shown in the figures, the bracket 100 can be secured to the optical distribution frame 146 at one side of the bracket 100. Instead of the depicted configuration, the opposite side of the bracket 100 (i.e., the right side of the bracket 100 in the figure) can be secured to the other rail in a corresponding manner. Moreover, the width of the bracket 100, as measured between outer edge sides of the second planar section 106, is such that two of the brackets 100 can be secured next to one another and occupy a single RU. For instance, according to an embodiment, the width of the bracket 100, as measured between outer edge sides of the second planar section 106, is less than about 25 cm, and more particularly about 20 cm.

Referring Fig. 4C, the outer sets 144 of fastener perforations 140 are disposed on a portion 154 of the second planar section 106 that laterally overhangs past outer edge sides of the first and third planar sections 104, 108. By providing the outer sets 144 of fastener perforations 140 on these laterally overhanging portions, the bracket 100 can be side mounted to a structure, e.g., as depicted in Fig. 5, with clearance between the first and third planar sections 104, 108 and the mounting structure.

Referring to Fig. 6, an example frame mount installation of the bracket 100 is shown. In this embodiment, two of the fiber optic cassettes 102 are secured to the bracket 100 and fiber optic cabling 156 is terminated at the front-facing connectors of the fiber optic cassette 102. As can be seen, the first planar section 104 covers the fiber optic cabling 156 that feeds into the cassette 102. The fiber optic cable retention features 126 in conjunction with a Velcro ® tether 158 tightly secure the fiber optic cabling 156 to the first planar section 104 in such a way that the fiber optic cabling 156 is completely covered by the first planar section 104 when seen from above. Thus, the fiber optic cable retention features 126 prevent the fiber optic cabling and associated connections from being interfered with. Referring to Fig. 7, an example wall mount installation of the bracket 100 is shown. In this example, two of the fiber optic cassettes 102 are secured to the bracket 100 and fiber optic cabling 156 is terminated at the connection ports of the optic cassettes 102. The third planar section 108 of the bracket 100 provides a rigid and planar surface to flush mount the bracket 100 against a rear surface (i.e., the wall in this example). In this wall mount installation, the bracket 100 can be secured to the rear surface with using enlarged fastener perforations 160 that are disposed in the third planar section 108. In general, the enlarged fastener perforations 160 of the third planar section 108 can be configured to accommodate any of a variety of known fastening mechanisms (e.g., bolt, screw, rivet, nail, etc.). According to the depicted embodiment, the enlarged fastener perforations 160 of the third planar section 108 include a circular section 162 and an elongated section 164 that is narrower than the circular section 162 and extends away from the circular section 162. Thus, the fastener perforations 140 of the third planar section 108 have a so-called key hole shape. This key hole shape is conducive to headed fasteners (e.g., screws or bolts), as the circular section 162 of the fastener can be placed over the fastener head and the fastener can be subsequently tightened in the elongated section 164.

Referring to Figs. 8-9, an optical hardware mounting bracket 200 is depicted, according to another embodiment. The optical hardware mounting bracket 200 in the embodiment of Figs. 8-9 is identical to the bracket 100 described with reference to Figs. 1-7, except that the bracket 200 additionally includes a planar rear platform 202 that is connected to the third planar section 108. The rear platform 202 adjoins an end 204 of the third planar section 108 that is opposite from the angled intersection between the second and third planar sections 106, 108. The rear platform 202 extends away from the second planar section 106 in the same direction as the third planar section 108.

According to the depicted embodiment, the rear platform 202 is parallel to and offset from the third planar section 108. The offset between the rear platform 202 and the third planar section 108 is provided by an angled planar section 206 that connects the outer end 204 of the third planar section 108 to an inner end of the rear platform 202. The angled planar section 206 forms an angled intersection with both the outer end of the third planar section 108 to an inner end 208 of the rear platform 202. The angled planar section 206 can be oriented of an angle of about 40 to 50 degrees relative to the third planar section 108. More generally, the angled planar section 206 can be disposed at varying angles, or can be omitted completely. Moreover, the rear platform 202 can be angled relative to the third planar section 108 in other embodiments. In other embodiments, the rear platform 202 and the third planar section 108 extend along a continuous single plane. According to the depicted embodiment, the rear platform 202 includes rounded corners 210 at outer edge sides of the rear platform 202. The rounded corners 210 provide a blunted, gradual transition between outer edge sides of the rear platform 202 so as to prevent loose fiber optic cabling from snagging and potentially breaking along exposed sharp corners of the bracket 200 in a similar manner as the rounded corners of the first planar section 104, as previously discussed.

According to the depicted embodiment, the rear platform 202 includes a pair of support tabs 212 that extend away from the platform. The support tabs 212 can be generally planar structures that are disposed at the peripheral edges of the rear platform 202. The support tabs 212 allow the bracket 200 to rest against a planar surface, e.g., a wall or floor, with the support tabs 212 providing structural support to the platform. Moreover, the support tabs 212 are configured to allow the bracket 200 to be flush against a planar surface, with the third planar section 108 and the support tabs 212 contacting the planar surface. To this end, outer edge sides of the support tabs 212 are parallel to the third planar section 108. As a result, the outer edge sides of the support tabs 212 and the third planar section 108 can be flush against a planar surface. More generally, any of a variety of support structures, such as cylindrical or rectangular shaped posts, can be used to provide mechanical support of the platform in the above described manner. These support structures can be disposed at a variety of different locations including the outer edge sides of the platform and central regions of the platform.

Figs. 8-9 also depict a protective lid 214 that can be combined with bracket 200. The protective lid 214 encloses and protects fiber optic hardware that is disposed on the rear platform 202. In the depicted embodiment, the protective lid 214 includes a planar roof section 216 and sidewalls 218 that are disposed around a periphery of the planar roof section 216. More particularly, three discrete sidewalls 218 are disposed at three outer edge sides of the planar roof section 216. At least one of the outer edge sides of the planar roof section 216 does not include a sidewall 218 so that an item extending away from the second planar section 106 of the bracket 200, e.g., a fiber optic cassette 102, can enter the space that is enclosed by the protective lid 214. The sidewalls 218 form an angled intersection with the planar roof section 216 at the periphery of the roof section. According to an embodiment, the sidewalls 218 are perpendicular to the planar roof section 216. More generally, the protective lid 214 can have a variety of different designs that serve to at least partially cover and/or enclose a three-dimensional volume over the platform. For instance, the sidewalls 218 can be disposed at various non-perpendicular angles relative to the rear platform 202. In addition, the roof section can have various geometries, and is not necessarily planar. The protective lid 214 is affixed to the rear platform 202 by a hinged connection. The hinged connection allows the protective lid 214 to swing towards and away from the rear platform 202. Fig. 8 depicts a second position of the hinged connection, i.e., an "open" position, in which the sidewalls 218 of the protective lid 214 are spaced apart from the rear platform 202. Fig. 9 depicts a first position of the hinged connection, i.e., a "closed" position, in which the sidewalls 218 of the protective lid 214 rest on the rear platform 202. In the depicted embodiment, the planar roof section 216 is parallel to the rear platform 202 in the first position, and the planar roof section 216 is perpendicular to the rear platform 202 in the second position. Thus, the hinged connection allows the protective lid 214 to swing ninety degrees between the first and seconds positions. In the first position, the protective lid 214 covers an interior volume, i.e., a three-dimensional space, over the platform, and at least partially encloses this interior volume. Accordingly, fiber optic hardware, e.g., cabling, connectors, splice modules, etc. that is disposed on the rear platform 202 in this space is protected by the protective lid 214 when the lid is in the first position. In the second position, the rear platform 202 is accessible to an installer to so that fiber optic hardware on the platform can be added or modified.

In the depicted embodiment, the hinged connection is provided by two protrusions 220 that extend away from the roof section 222 that are insertably received by two openings 222 in the angled planar section 206. More generally, any of a variety of suitable hinge structures can be used to provide the hinged connection described herein.

Optionally, the protective lid 214 can include a pair of fastening mechanisms 224

(identified in Fig. 9A) to secure the protective lid 214 to the rear platform 202 in the first position. For instance, as shown in the figures, two push pins are provided on planar tab portions of the protective lid 214 that adjoin the sidewalls 218. These push pins can be inserted in corresponding openings that align with the push pins when the roof section 222 is in the first position and subsequently locked to secure the protective lid 214 in place. More generally, any fastening mechanism, e.g., screw, bolt, etc., can be used to secure the protective lid 214 to the rear platform 202 section.

The rear platform 202 can include fiber optic cable retention features 216. These fiber optic cable retention features 216 include three pairs of parallel spaced apart slits. These parallel spaced apart slits have a similar configuration as previously described parallel spaced apart slits that are disposed on the first planar section 104. In a similar manner as previously described, these fiber optic cable retention features 216 provide an anchor point for a circular tether (e.g., a span of Velcro® or a zip tie) to secure fiber optic cabling against the first planar section 104, e.g., in the manner depicted in Fig. 7. In addition, the fiber optic cable retention features 216 of the rear platform 202 include two planar tabs. These tabs form an angled intersection with the rear platform 202, and may be substantially perpendicular to the rear platform 202. The planar tabs laterally retain loose fiber optic cabling to a defined space that is within the footprint of the protective lid 214. Accordingly, the planar tabs prevent loose fiber optic cabling from being pinched or damaged by the sidewalls 218 of the protective lid 214 when the protective lid 214 is moved into the first (closed) position. The above described configuration represents just one of a variety of possibilities for the orientation and dimensioning of the fiber optic cable retention features 216. More generally, the cable retention features can be any interruption in the otherwise planar surface of the rear platform 202 that provides a fastening point for the securing of fiber optic cabling thereto. For example, the fiber optic cable retention features 216 can have any of the different configurations of the fiber optic cable retention features 126 of the first planar section 104 as previously discussed.

The rear platform 202 also includes a fiber optic splice module retention feature 226 (identified in Fig. 8A). In the depicted embodiment, the fiber optic splice module retention feature 226 is provided by a plurality of circular fastener perforations. The circular fastener perforations can be dimensioned to include a variety of different circular fasteners, such as screws, bolts, etc. According to an embodiment, the circular fastener perforations are dimensioned to receive a pop rivet. This can be achieved by a circular perforation with a diameter of about 4 millimeters. More generally, the fiber optic splice module retention feature 226 can be any disruption in the otherwise planar surface the provides an anchor point for a modular fiber optic splice retention feature.

Referring to Figs. 10-11, the optical hardware mounting bracket 200 as described with reference to Figs. 8-9 is depicted with a fiber optic cassette 102 being secured to the bracket 200. Fig. 10 depicts the protective lid 214 in the second (open) position. Fig. 11 depicts the protective lid 214 in the first (closed) position. The fiber optic cassette 102 is disposed in the receptacle and secured to the bracket 200 in the manner previously described with reference to Figs. 3-4. The protective lid 214 includes a recessed edge side 228 (identified in Fig. 11) that provides clearance between the protective lid 214 and the cassette 102 when the protective lid 214 is in the second (open) position.

With the protective lid 214 in the second (open) position, fiber optic cabling from an external apparatus can be connected at the rear side of the cassette 102, e.g., using the depicted rear side connectors 230 (identified in Fig. 11). This fiber optic cabling can be secured to the rear platform 202 and retained within the footprint of the protective lid 214 using the fiber optic cable retention features 216, i.e., the parallel spaced apart slits and the planar tabs.

As can be seen in Fig. 11, when the protective lid 214 is closed, the protective lid 214 encloses and protects the space that is behind the fiber optic cassette 102. Thus, any fiber optic components that are behind the cassette 102, e.g., fiber optic cabling, connectors, etc., can be covered by the protective lid 214 and protected from the exterior environment.

Referring to Fig. 12, the optical hardware mounting bracket 200 as described with reference to Figs. 8-9 is depicted with two fiber optic splice modules 232 being secured to rear platform 202. Each of the fiber optic splice modules 232 are designed to receive and securely retain one or more fiber optic splices. The fiber optic cabling associated with these splices can be routed from fiber optic connectors (not shown) that are disposed in and secured to the receptacle portion of the bracket 200, i.e., the opening 116 in the second planar section 106. The fiber optic splice modules 232 are affixed to the fiber optic splice module retention features 216 of the rear platform 202, e.g., using pop rivets. Fig. 12 depicts the protective lid 214 in the second (open) position. After securing the fiber optic splice modules 232 to the platform section, the protective lid 214 can be moved into the first (closed) position. As a result, the fiber optic splice modules 232 and the splices contained therein are enclosed any protected by the protective lid 214.

The optical hardware mounting bracket described herein may be made from any material that is capable of being formed into the features described herein and has enough structural integrity to support fiber optic equipment and resist ordinary pulling forces. For example, the optical hardware mounting bracket may be may be formed by punching or pressing sheet-metal, such as aluminum. Alternatively, the optical hardware mounting bracket can be formed from plastic or other composite materials.

The term "angled intersection" as used herein refers to an intersection between two planes that are oriented at non-parallel angles relative to one another. In an angled intersection, two planes directly join one another and an angle measured between the two planes is greater or less than one hundred eighty degrees.

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

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

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