Abstract: A layer module arrangement for splice trays. Each layer module comprises a base to support the splices and two side members extending in the same general direction from the base. The invention provides for multiple embodiments each having add-on capabilities so as to provide lodging for a high density of splice connections if desired.

Abstract: The fiber slack storage device of the present invention for storing a slack length of a fiber optic strand comprises a spool comprising a pair of diametrically-opposed cylindrical barrels, and a cylindrical housing for at least partially enclosing the spool. The spool is disposed in the housing and is rotatable with respect thereto and the minimum radius of curvature of each of the cylindrical barrels is equal to or greater than the minimum bend radius of the fiber optic strand.

Abstract: An on board system for a taxicab having a wireless modem that allows a passenger to charge his fare by use of a credit card to a remotely located institution responsible for the charge account. The system also provides bilateral communication to allow messages to be successfully exchanged in order to successfully conduct the business of carrying passengers in the taxicab.

Abstract: A flow regulator has a pair of side walls extending generally parallel to one another, a bottom wall connecting the side walls to one another and defining an elongate channel for receiving a compressible tube, a roller rotatably and shiftably mounted to the side walls for rolling along the tube in the channel and compressing the tube against the bottom wall. The bottom wall is provided with a formation which varies from a first end of the channel towards an opposite, second end thereof, whereby compressive force applied to the tube via the roller is different at different longitudinal positions of the roller along the channel. A bracket or bow-shaped bridge is disposed about or between the side walls at one end of the channel. The bracket is in contact with outer surfaces of the side walls only in regions of the side walls spaced from the bottom wall. The bracket or bridge are advantageously made with less inherent stiffness than the assembly defining the elongate channel.

Abstract: An instrument having ergonomic gripping for the comfort and firm gripping by a user. The instrument comprises an elongated body having a uniform rear portion that diverges into two or more arms, which are then merged at the front writing end to form a bulbous front portion for a user to grip. In one embodiment, the two arms diverge from the rear portion defining an opening therebetween wherein a user's thumb is placed against one side of the opening and the middle finger against the opposite side of the opening, with the index finger resting along the curved bulbous front portion for a firm, ergonomic grip. In another embodiment, the instrument comprises a generally teardrop shaped annular body defining an opening therebetween having a concave surface and an opposite convex surface wherein a user's thumb is placed against the opening on the concave surface and the middle finger against the opening on the convex surface, with the index finger resting along the curved teardrop periphery.

Abstract: An improved panel for plug-in protectors, particularly protectors in high frequency applications. The panel comprises a plurality of five-pin sockets, each five-pin sockets corresponds to the terminals of a five-pin plug-in protector. The plurality of sockets are arranged in a staggered, brick layering configuration, horizontally or at an angle, such that the edge of a protector received in a set of socket is aligned with the half-width point of an adjacently stacked protector for minimal crosstalk while conserving space. In an alternative embodiment, each row of the staggered, brick layering, configuration are spaced apart to further minimize crosstalk and may be suitable for even higher frequency applications.

Abstract: A locking mechanism for a box having a cover and a base hingeably connected to each other. The locking mechanism comprises a cover latching mechanism and a base latching mechanism. The cover latching mechanism is in a latching position. The two latching mechanisms are in latching engagement with each other to lock the box closed. An unlatching mechanism is provided which is activated to place the latching mechanism in an unlatching position to disengage the latching mechanisms from each other and unlock the box. An activating mechanism to active the unlatching mechanism. A deactivating mechanism is provided to return the cover latching mechanism back to its latching position so that closing the cover will cause the latching mechanisms to become in locking engagement with each other to lock the box. A box opening assembly in the box which is adapted to open the cover as soon as the latching mechanisms are disengaged from each other.

Abstract: A high density distribution panel is disclosed having a plurality of drawers on which components are mounted. The drawers provide support for the components and are pulled out and allowed to be guided downward with the assistance of gravity to come to rest against appropriate support and also to provide front access of the components mounted on the drawers. The appropriate support accommodates the use of downwardly initiated press action of sufficient force to provide for good electrical connections of associated electrical conductors, which includes optical and electrical cables.

Abstract: The combination of a tray and a cover for fiber optic cables, the tray is adapted to hold fiber optic cables and has upstanding side and rear walls, the upper edge of each wall having a ledge formed by a recessed channel in the edge. A cover is adapted to be applied to the tray and has a plurality of edges which nest within the tray so that its side and rear edges rest on the ledge of the tray. The tray has holes therein for receiving protrusion extending from the cover for frictional engagement. Openings are provided in the walls adjacent to the holes to provide access for a user to lift up the cover from the tray.