U.S. patent application number 11/411707 was filed with the patent office on 2006-11-09 for anchor rail adapter and hanger and method.
Invention is credited to Rick Korczak, Kevin E. Linehan, Christopher R. Stockman.
Application Number | 20060249633 11/411707 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 21943317 |
Filed Date | 2006-11-09 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060249633 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Korczak; Rick ; et
al. |
November 9, 2006 |
Anchor rail adapter and hanger and method
Abstract
An adapter and hanger mounts an associated article to an
associated anchor rail. The anchor rail is formed as a U-shaped
channel having a pair of upstanding, opposing legs, each leg having
an inwardly extending wall and terminating in a downwardly oriented
lip. The adapter includes a top surface, flanges depending from the
top surface and mounting legs extending from the flanges. The
mounting legs each have a hook-like portion for engaging a
respective rail lip. The adapter is flexible to permit urging the
flanges inwardly toward one another for inserting a portion of the
mounting legs into the U-shaped channel, and is also resilient such
that the hook like portions biasedly engage the rail lips. In one
embodiment, a hanger is formed integral with the adapter.
Inventors: |
Korczak; Rick; (Channahon,
IL) ; Linehan; Kevin E.; (Rowlett, TX) ;
Stockman; Christopher R.; (New Lenox, IL) |
Correspondence
Address: |
WELSH & KATZ, LTD
120 S RIVERSIDE PLAZA
22ND FLOOR
CHICAGO
IL
60606
US
|
Family ID: |
21943317 |
Appl. No.: |
11/411707 |
Filed: |
April 25, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
10046414 |
Nov 9, 2001 |
7090174 |
|
|
11411707 |
Apr 25, 2006 |
|
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|
Current U.S.
Class: |
248/62 ; 248/72;
248/74.2 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F16L 3/24 20130101; H02G
3/30 20130101; F16B 37/02 20130101; F16B 37/045 20130101; F16B 7/04
20130101; F16L 3/243 20190801; F16L 3/222 20130101; F16B 21/075
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
248/062 ;
248/072; 248/074.2 |
International
Class: |
E21F 17/02 20060101
E21F017/02 |
Claims
1-140. (canceled)
141. For use with an anchor rail formed as a U-shaped channel with
a longitudinal slit-like opening, the channel having a pair of
upstanding opposing legs, each leg having an inwardly extending
wall and terminating in a downwardly oriented rail lip adjacent the
channel opening, an adapter configured to lock into a channel
opening and releasably retain an associated line support hanger on
the channel, the adapter comprising: a hanger-receiving portion
having an opening configured to releasably secure a line support
hanger on the adapter; a pair of flanges extending from the
hanger-receiving portion; and mounting legs extending from the
flanges, the mounting legs each having a hook-like portion for
engaging a corresponding rail lip, the hook-like portion extending
substantially along a width of the mounting leg, the adapter being
flexible to permit urging of the hook-like portions inwardly toward
each other to facilitate insertion of said hook-like portions into
the channel opening such that they retentively engage the rail
lips.
142. For use with an anchor rail formed as a U-shaped channel with
a longitudinal slit-like opening, the channel having a pair of
upstanding opposing legs, each leg having an inwardly extending
wall and terminating in a downwardly oriented rail lip adjacent the
channel opening, an adapter configured to lock into a channel
opening and releasably retain an associated line support hanger on
the channel, the adapter comprising: a hanger-receiving portion
configured to receive and releasably retain an associated line
support hanger; and opposed mounting legs coupled to said
hanger-receiving portion and having feet configured to engage
corresponding channel lips of the channel to securely lock the
adapter into the channel when the adapter legs are pinched together
to fit within the channel and released so as to expand and
retentively engage the corresponding channel lips.
143. The adapter defined by claim 142 wherein said feet have
hook-like portions for engaging the channel lips.
144. The adapter defined by claim 142 wherein said legs are
configured to bite into the channel and prevent slippage of the
adapter along the channel.
145. The adapter defined by claim 142 wherein said hanger-receiving
portion of said adapter has an opening adapted to be retentively
engaged by the line support hanger.
146. The adapter defined by claim 145 wherein said opening is
threaded.
147. The adapter defined by claim 146 wherein said opening
surrounded by a collar.
148. The adapter defined by claim 142 wherein said line support
hanger is adapted to support lines of different types.
149. The adapter defined by claim 142 wherein the adapter is
configured to snap into the channel.
150. The adapter defined by claim 149 wherein said feet are
configured such that the legs are automatically pinched when the
adapter is pushed into the channel.
151. The adapter defined by claim 142 wherein said legs each have
one or more integral outstruck tabs which act when the adapter is
engaged with a channel to bite into the channel and prevent
slippage of the resilient adapter longitudinally along the
channel.
152. An assembly for retaining a waveguide transmission line, or
electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic or other line on a channel, the
channel being generally U-shaped with a longitudinal slit-like
opening and having a pair of upstanding opposing legs, each leg
having an inwardly extending wall and terminating in a downwardly
oriented rail lip adjacent the channel opening, the assembly
comprising: a unitary resilient adapter having a hanger-receiving
portion; and a line support hanger configured to retain a waveguide
transmission line, or electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic or other
line and having a locking portion configured to be releasably
received by the hanger-receiving portion of the adapter, the
resilient adapter having opposed mounting legs with feet configured
to engage the corresponding channel lips to securely lock the
resilient adapter into the slit-like channel opening when the legs
are pinched together to fit within the channel opening and released
so as to expand and engage the corresponding channel lips.
153. The assembly defined by claim 152 wherein said line support
hanger is configured to releasably engage said resilient adapter
with a snap action.
154. The assembly defined by claim 152 wherein said line support
hanger is adapted to lock into said hanger-receiving portion of
said adapter.
155. The assembly defined by claim 152 wherein said line support
hanger is stackable, having a stacking provision for connecting a
second line support hanger to itself to permit daisy-chaining of
said line support hangers.
156. The assembly defined by claim 152 wherein said resilient
adapter and line support hanger are interconnected with a swivel
joint, permitting articles to be supported at any angle with
respect to the channel.
157. The assembly defined by claim 152 wherein said line support
hanger has a generally U-shaped resilient configuration with
opposing legs structured to securely but releasably engage said
hanger-receiving portion of said adapter.
158. The assembly defined by claim 157 wherein said adapter has an
opening which is engaged by barbed feet on said legs of said line
support hanger.
159. For use with an anchor rail formed as a U-shaped channel
having a longitudinal slit-like opening and a pair of upstanding,
opposing legs, each leg having an inwardly extending wall and
terminating in a downwardly oriented rail lip, an adapter
configured to receive and releasably retain an associated line
support hanger on the associated anchor rail, the adapter
comprising: a hanger-receiving portion having an opening configured
to releasably secure a line support hanger to the adapter; and
mounting legs coupled to the hanger-receiving portion, the mounting
legs each having at a distal end thereof a hook-like portion for
engaging the corresponding rail lip, the adapter being flexible to
permit urging of the legs inwardly toward each other to facilitate
insertion of the hook-like portions of the mounting legs into the
channel opening and into retentive engagement with the rail
lips.
160. The adapter in accordance with claim 159 including at least
one binding element formed on at least one of the mounting legs and
configured to bite into the rail if the adapter is translated
longitudinally along the rail.
161. The combination comprising: the adapter defined by claim 159;
and a line support hanger configured to retain a waveguide
transmission line, or electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic or other
line, and having a portion configured to releasably engage said
opening in said hanger-receiving portion of said adapter.
162. The combination of claim 161 wherein the hanger is composed of
resilient sheet material.
163. The combination of claim 162 wherein the hanger is generally
U-shaped and has a pair of legs with barbs at the distal ends
thereof which are configured to lockingly engage said adapter
opening when inserted therein.
164. The combination of claim 161 wherein said line support hanger
is stackable, having a stacking provision for connecting a second
line support hanger to itself to permit daisy-chaining of said line
support hangers.
165. The combination of claim 161 wherein said adapter and line
support hanger are interconnected with a swivel joint, permitting
lines to be supported at various angles with respect to the
channel.
166. For retaining a waveguide transmission line, or electrical,
pneumatic, hydraulic or other line on an elongated rigid channel
having a generally U-shaped cross-section and a longitudinal
slit-like opening, a unitary resilient adapter defining opposed
legs with feet configured to securely lock into the channel opening
when the legs are pinched and the adapter is inserted into the
channel.
167. The adapter defined by claim 166 wherein said feet have
hook-like portions for engaging lips on the edges of the channel
opening.
168. The adapter defined by claim 166 wherein said legs are
configured to bite into the channel and prevent slippage of the
adapter longitudinally along the channel.
169. The adapter defined by claim 166 configured to retain a line
on the channel.
170. The adapter defined by claim 169 wherein the adapter is
configured to retain a line between said legs.
171. The adapter defined by claim 166 including a hanger-receiving
portion with an opening for retentively receiving a line hanger
configured to retain a line on the channel.
172. A combination including the adapter of claim 171 and a line
hanger configured to retentively engage said opening in said
adapter.
173. The combination of claim 172 wherein said hanger has a
generally U-shape cross-section and legs with barbed feet
configured to lockingly engage said adapter opening when inserted
therein.
174. The combination defined by claim 172 wherein said hanger is
stackable to permit a number of lines to be daisy-chained on the
channel.
175. The combination defined by claim 172 wherein said hanger is
adapted to support lines of different diameter.
Description
[0001] This is a continuation of and claims the benefit of priority
from application Ser. No. 10/046,414, filed Nov. 9, 2001, entitled
Anchor Rail Adapter And Hanger And Method, currently pending.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] This invention relates generally to an adapter and hanger
for use with rail anchors. More particularly, the invention relates
to an adapter and hanger or mount for mounting articles to
rail-type anchors, i.e., anchor rails and a method of use.
[0003] In the construction industry, many articles, such as piping
conduit, tubing and the like, are supported by various methods. One
such method employs anchor rails as the structural "backbone" or
support for these articles. The use of anchor rails is widespread
in the construction trades as well as other construction-related
industries.
[0004] Anchor rails are used for supporting myriad equipment items
and transfer media (such as piping, tubing and electrical conduit).
One widely recognized type of anchor rail and anchor rail
accessories is UNISTRUT.RTM. brand framing members, bracket and
fittings. The anchor rail is formed as a U-shaped channel having a
pair of upstanding, opposing legs. Each of the legs has an inwardly
extending wall and terminates in a downwardly oriented lip.
[0005] In order to attach the articles (e.g., piping, tubing or
conduit supports) to the framing member or anchor rail, mounting
arrangements are used that typically include a spring nut that fits
within the channel and a plate or other member that fits over the
channel. The spring nut includes flanges that permit inserting the
spring nut into the channel and securing the nut between and under
the opposing lips. A bolt is inserted through the article to be
supported and threaded into the nut to secure the article in
place.
[0006] Although these spring nuts are quite widely accepted and
used, there are drawbacks. For example, each spring nut is
fabricated from a number of parts, including a coil spring. As
such, parts can separate and become misplaced, thus rendering the
mounting arrangement unusable. In addition, attachment of an
article to such a nut requires the use of tools, e.g., a wrench or
socket, to properly secure the article to the nut.
[0007] Additionally, in the installation of towers or other
supports for communications antennae, hangers are used to support
and route the lines or cables that provide connection between the
antennae and transmission/receiving equipment. In these
installations, the transmission line hangers are affixed to
structural members of, for example, the antennae tower and the like
for supporting the various transmission lines to/from the antennae.
An exemplary transmission line hanger is disclosed in Paske et al.,
U.S. Pat. No. 6,161,804, Paske et al., U.S. patent application Ser.
No. 09/863,718, and Paske, U.S. Pat. No. 6,354,543 B1, which
patents and patent applications are commonly assigned herewith and
incorporated herein by reference.
[0008] Accordingly, there is a need for an anchor rail adapter that
is usable with commonly known types of anchor rail supports.
Desirably, such an adapter is readily attached or mounted to the
anchor rail without requiring tools. Most desirably, such an
adapter is configured for use with a wide variety of articles
typically mounted to such anchor rails. Also most desirably, such
an adapter is a single or unitary member thus eliminating the
possibility of misplacing various parts of the adapter, rendering
the adapter unusable.
[0009] These and other features and advantages of the present
invention will be apparent from the following detailed description,
in conjunction with the appended claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] The features and advantages of the present invention will
become apparent upon reading the following detailed description and
upon reference to the drawings wherein:
[0011] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an adapter embodying the
principles of the present invention, the adapter illustrated as
mounted to an exemplary anchor rail;
[0012] FIG. 2 is a side view of the adapter and anchor rail of FIG.
1 illustrated with a lower portion of a transmission line hanger
mounted thereto;
[0013] FIG. 3 is a side view of the adapter and anchor rail of FIG.
1 illustrated with a tubing support and tubing;
[0014] FIGS. 4A-4B are perspective and side views of the adapter of
FIGS. 1-3;
[0015] FIGS. 5A-5B are perspective and top views of an alternate
embodiment of an adapter that includes inwardly/downwardly oriented
projections for receiving a push-pin type of fastener;
[0016] FIGS. 6A-6B are perspective and side views of still another
embodiment of the adapter having a threaded depending collar;
[0017] FIGS. 7A-7B are perspective and side views of yet another
embodiment of the adapter illustrated with a curved mounting
surface and flange slots for receiving a support element;
[0018] FIG. 8 is a perspective illustration similar to FIG. 1
illustrating a combination of the adapter configured with a
stackable hanger, for supporting an article;
[0019] FIGS. 9-11 illustrate various orientations of the adapter in
which the adapter can be used, the adapter being mounted to an
anchor rail and shown with the rail oriented horizontally and
vertically, and with the adapter positioned for routing a line
transverse to the anchor rail (FIG. 9), parallel to the anchor rail
(FIG. 10) and at an angle to the rail (FIG. 11);
[0020] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of
the present invention, in which an adapter and a hanger are formed
as a unitary member, and shown, in part, with a line, such as a
conduit for clarity of understanding;
[0021] FIG. 13 is an end view of the adapter/hanger combination
member;
[0022] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the adapter/hanger
combination member with an addition hanger mounted thereto in a
stacked configuration, and illustrated with a pair of lines for
clarity of understanding;
[0023] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of still another alternate
adapter configured to snap into a rail;
[0024] FIG. 16 is an end view of the adapter of FIG. 15;
[0025] FIG. 17 is an end view of an alternate snap-in adapter,
similar to that shown in FIG. 15;
[0026] FIG. 18 is an end view of still another stackable
adapter/hanger member in which a line is held transversely in the
adapter/hanger body;
[0027] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the adapter/hanger of FIG.
18;
[0028] FIG. 19A is a side view of the adapter/hanger of FIGS.
18-19;
[0029] FIG. 20 is a side view of an alternate embodiment of a
transversely supporting adapter/hanger combination member;
[0030] FIG. 21 is still another alternate embodiment of an
adapter/hanger member similar to that of the embodiment of FIGS. 18
and 19, and having a snap-in configuration similar to that of the
embodiment of FIGS. 15 and 16;
[0031] FIG. 22 illustrates an anchor rail used as a trapeze support
and showing still another configuration in which the adapter and
adapter/hanger combination member can be used;
[0032] FIG. 23 illustrates a configuration in which stackable
hangers are supported by a rod, such as a threaded rod, that is
hung from a ceiling;
[0033] FIG. 24 illustrates a ceiling mount or coupling for the
stackable hanger of FIG. 23;
[0034] FIG. 25 illustrates a line or pipe mount from which a
stackable hanger series can be supported by an overhead line or
pipe;
[0035] FIG. 26 illustrates a structural member mount for a
stackable hanger;
[0036] FIG. 27 illustrates a hanging stacked configuration of the
stackable hangers, the first hanger being directly mounted to a
ceiling or other foundation; and
[0037] FIG. 28 is a side view of still another alternate
configuration in which the adapter of FIGS. 1-3 is used to attach
an electrical or other box to an anchor rail.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0038] While the present invention is susceptible of embodiment in
various forms, there is shown in the drawings and will hereinafter
be described a presently preferred embodiment with the
understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered an
exemplification of the invention and is not intended to limit the
invention to the specific embodiment illustrated.
[0039] It should be further understood that the title of this
section of this specification, namely, "Detailed Description Of The
Invention", relates to a requirement of the United States Patent
Office, and does not imply, nor should be inferred to limit the
subject matter disclosed herein.
[0040] In the present disclosure, the words "a" or "an" are to be
taken to include both the singular and the plural. Conversely, any
reference to plural items shall, where appropriate, include the
singular.
[0041] Referring now to the figures, and in particular to FIG. 1,
there is shown an anchor rail adapter 10 embodying the principles
of the present invention. The adapter 10 is configured for use with
an associated anchor rail, such as the exemplary, illustrated rail
12, which is representative of, for example, UNISTRUT.RTM. brand
rail members.
[0042] Those skilled in the art will recognize the rail 12 as a
channel having a base portion 14 and upstanding legs 16. The legs
16 typically have inwardly oriented walls 18, 118 (FIG. 3) and a
lip 20, 120 (FIG. 3) extending downwardly from an inner end of each
wall 18, when viewed in cross-section, as illustrated in FIG.
2.
[0043] Unlike known adapters or mounts that are used with anchor
rails, the present adapter 10, 110 (FIG. 3) is a unitary element.
That is, while known adapters require multiple elements and
typically a biasing element (such as a coil spring), the present
adapter 10, 110 (FIG. 3) is a single part that is readily snapped
into place on the rail 12.
[0044] Referring now to FIGS. 2 and 3, the rail adapter 10 includes
a mounting surface 22, 122 (FIG. 3) for mounting an article A to
the adapter 10. Note that similar structures shown in FIG. 3 will
be assigned a reference number greater by a value of 100 than
corresponding reference numbers shown in FIG. 2. The mounting or
attachment surface 22, 122 (FIG. 3) can, for example, be a top
surface 24 of the adapter 10 and can include an opening 26 therein
to, for example, receive a snap-lock or locking barbs 54 of a
stackable hanger 52 such as that disclosed in the aforementioned
patent to Paske et al., and as illustrated, in part, in FIG. 2. The
opening 26 is defined by a locking shoulder or wall 28 that is
configured for the hanger barb 54 to secure thereto, as described
in more detail below. Those skilled in the art will recognize the
wide variety of articles A that can be mounted to the anchor rail
12, 112 (FIG. 3) using the present adapter 10, 110 (FIG. 3), as
will be presented in more detail below.
[0045] Spaced apart flanges 30 depend from the top surface 24. In a
current embodiment, a pair of flanges 30 depend from the top
surface 24, one flange 30 from each side 32, 34 of the top surface
24. That is, the flanges 30 are opposingly disposed on opposite
sides 32, 34 of the top surface 24. The flanges 30 are configured
to provide a space (indicated at 36) between the top surface 24 and
the rail 12, and further, as described below, to provide a biasing
function or element to the adapter 10. As best seen in FIG. 2, the
space 36 between the flanges 30 further permits receipt of a
fastening element, such as the transmission hanger barbs 54,
without interference from the rail inward walls 18.
[0046] Mounting legs 38 extend inwardly, then downwardly, from ends
of the flanges 30 distal from the top surface 24. The mounting legs
38 each terminate in a locking lip 40, 140 (FIG. 3). In a present
embodiment, the locking lips 40, 140 (FIG. 3) are hook-like
elements that extend outwardly and upwardly (relative to the inward
42 and downward 44 extensions of the legs 38), as seen in FIG. 2.
The locking lips or hooks 40, 140 (FIG. 3) are configured to engage
the rail lips 20, 120 (FIG. 3).
[0047] As such, each mounting leg inward portion 42 engages the
rail inward wall 18 and the mounting leg downward portion 44
engages the rail lip 20. The hooks 40 extend around the lips 20 to
secure the adapter 10 to the rail 12. In a current embodiment, the
mounting leg downward portion 44 is formed at an angle .alpha.
(FIG. 3) of about 200 to the vertical. This assures an outward bias
of the downward portion 44 when the adapter 10 is positioned on the
rail 12.
[0048] To enhance securing the adapter 10 to the rail 12, locking
tabs 46, 146 (FIG. 3) extend downwardly from the inward mounting
leg portions 42. The locking tabs 46, 146 (FIG. 3) are configured
to bind on the rail inward wall 18 when the leg hooks 40 are
positioned on the rail lips 20. In this manner, the adapter 10 is
secured to the rail 12 by the clamping action of the tabs 46 and
hooks 40 to the rail walls 18 and lips 20.
[0049] In a current embodiment, the tabs 46 are formed as part of
the mounting leg inward walls 42 by notches 48 formed or cut in a
portion of the wall 42 to define the tabs 46. Tab end portions 50
are bent or otherwise formed having a downwardly extending portion
that bite into the rail inward walls 18. In that the notches 48 are
formed extending into the walls 42, and the tabs 46 are bent
downwardly (as at 50), the tabs 46 are biased to urge the biting
portion 50 into the rail wall 18. This further enhances securing
the adapter 10 in place on the rail 12. In the illustrated
embodiment, the adapter 10 is formed having four such tabs 46
(three shown), two positioned on each end of the adapter 10, on
opposing mounting legs 38.
[0050] As will be readily appreciated by those skilled in the art,
the adapter 10 can be formed from steel or like materials having
physical characteristics that permit the material to bend or to be
bent, while maintaining resiliency (i.e., tending to return to an
original shape). For moderate to light duty applications, the
adapter 10 may be molded from a plastic resin. As such, various
portions of the adapter 10 support the spring-like or biased
mounting arrangement to the rail 12. For example, the flanges 30
are biased outwardly so that the legs 38 are urged against the rail
inward wall 18 and lip 20. In addition, the bias of the legs 38 at
the hooks 40, in conjunction with the bias of the biting portions
50 further enhances securing the adapter 10 to the rail 12.
Moreover, the biased feature of the adapter 10 permits use of the
adapter 10 with rails 12 having different sized openings or gaps
between the lips 20.
[0051] As will also be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the
present adapter 10 provides for readily mounting, removing and
remounting an article A (such as the tube T or line L illustrated
in FIGS. 3, 8 and 14) to the anchor rail 12, without the use of
tools. That is, to install the adapter 10, the adapter 10 is
positioned on the rail 12 by urging the flanges 30 toward one
another against the bias (which can generally be done by hand). The
hooks 40 are positioned under the rail lips 20, and the flanges 30
are released. This engages the hooks 40 with the rail lips 20 and
locks the adapter 10 to the rail 12. A further advantage of the
present adapter 10 is that the location of the adapter 10 along the
rail 12 can be readily adjusted (again, generally without the use
of tools), by urging the flanges 30 toward one another, sliding the
adapter 10 to the desired location on the rail 12, and releasing
the flanges 30.
[0052] Referring now to FIG. 8, in one use as introduced above, a
stackable line hanger 52 is provided for securing one or more
lines, such as one or more conduit or transmission lines L to the
adapter 10 and then to the anchor rail 12. An exemplary hanger 52
includes a line retention section 56 for accommodating a line
(e.g., a conduit or transmission line L) and a mounting section 58
extending from the line retention section 56. The mounting section
58 includes a mounting hole 60 disposed therein. The line retention
section 56 includes a first leg 62a and a second leg 62b extending
therefrom. The first and second legs 62a and 62b allow the hanger
52 to accommodate various sizes of lines L. The first and second
legs 62a and 62b each include the locking barb 54 configured to
lock against an attachment surface, for example, to lock to the
adapter 10.
[0053] The hangers 52 can be used in a stacked arrangement as will
be described below to support one or more lines L, including
transmission lines, coaxial cables and waveguides, electrical
conduit, pneumatic and hydraulic lines and the like in generally
parallel rows. The hanger 52 can accommodate a range of different
line L diameters. A first row of the hangers 52 generally secures
one line to a supporting structure, such as an adapter 10, a
horizontal transmission line bridge, a vertical antenna tower, a
building ceiling or wall surface or other mounting structure. One
or more additional rows of the hangers, and as described below, can
secure one or more additional lines L by attaching to the
respective hangers 52 in the first row. The hangers 52 are easy to
install because no ancillary hardware is required, such as nuts,
bolts, or screws.
[0054] The illustrated hanger 52 is a unitary structure composed of
metal, or in moderate to light duty applications, of a plastic
resin. In one embodiment, the hanger 52 is composed of stainless
steel having a thickness of 0.76 mm and is generally U-shaped. The
hanger 52 includes a mounting section 58, a transmission line
retention section 56, an extended section 64, and an attachment
section 66. The mounting section 58 extends from the retention
section 56. The mounting section 58 includes a snap-in stacking
provision, or a mounting hole 60 disposed therein. The retention
section 56 includes two opposing curved members or arms 68a, 68b
that accommodate a cylindrical line or article, such as a
transmission line L, a pipe, a conduit or the like, exemplary of
which is the illustrated transmission line. The curved members 68a,
68b include the first leg 62a and the second leg 62b, respectively,
that comprise the extended section 64. The first and second legs
62a, 62b extend from the respective curved members 68a, 68b. A
compliant area 70 is disposed between the mounting section 58 and
the retention section 56 and allows the first and second legs 62a,
62b to be pressed towards each other and to expand away from each
other by spring force.
[0055] In the illustrated hanger 52, the extended section 64
includes a pair of spring fingers (first and second spring fingers)
74a each projecting inwardly from the extended section 64 and into
the retention section 56. The first leg 62a includes a spring
finger 74a flexibly connected thereto and projecting inwardly
therefrom. The second leg 62b includes a second spring finger 74a
flexibly connected thereto and projecting inwardly therefrom. The
spring fingers 74a are flexibly connected to the respective legs
62a, 62b such that when a transmission line L is inserted into the
hanger 52, the spring fingers 74a flex outward with respect to the
respective legs 62a, 62b and force the transmission line L against
a pair of opposing line stops 78a, 78b. Thus, the spring fingers
74a provide spring resistance against the line L after it is
inserted in the hanger 52.
[0056] When used with a line having a soft coating or jacket, such
as certain transmission lines L, the spring fingers 74a can
penetrate or bite into the jacket of the transmission line L to
further secure the transmission line L within the hanger 52. The
spring fingers 74a and the stops 78 help minimize the longitudinal
movement of the line L in the hanger 52 even on smooth
(non-corrugated) lines L. Longitudinal movement is defined as
movement in a direction parallel to the length of the line L.
[0057] Returning to FIG. 2, the stackable, snap-in hanger 52
requires no additional hardware to install it to an attachment
surface. Thus, the hanger 52 includes the spring fingers 74a (see
FIG. 8) which help to minimize line L vibration, particularly with
transmissions lines. In addition, the hanger 52 insures that an
improper amount of torque is not applied to a hanger 52 assembly
because there is no additional hardware required to fasten the
hanger 52 to an attachment surface such as the adapter 10.
[0058] The compliant area 70, in conjunction with the spring
fingers 74a allows the hanger 52 to have the compliance necessary
to accommodate a large range of different line L diameters. The
extended section 64 has the compliance to allow the hanger 52 to
accommodate a large range of line L diameters and still allow the
attachment section 66 to be inserted with moderate force into an
aperture 26 in an attachment surface, such as the adapter 10, a
supporting structure or the mounting hole of another hanger, as
shown in FIG. 8, and the like.
[0059] Moreover, the extended section 64, in conjunction with the
pair of spring fingers 74a allows the hanger 52 to accommodate a
range of different line L diameters by having the compliance to
expand for larger lines L. The extended section 64 and the spring
fingers 74a also have the compliance to allow the hanger 52 to
accommodate a large range of line L diameters while still allowing
the attachment section 66 to be inserted into an attachment surface
aperture 26.
[0060] Unlike prior hangers, the shape of the retention section 56
and the attachment section 66 of the hanger 52 do not change
significantly in response to supporting different diameter lines L.
The flexibility of the spring fingers 74a allows the spring fingers
74a to flex inward with respect to the extended section 64 after a
line L has been inserted into the retention section 56. The
flexibility of the extended section 64 allows the attachment
section 66 to be inserted into an aperture 26 in an attachment
surface (e.g., an adapter 10) with significantly reduced insertion
force, and without significantly changing the shape of the line
retention section 56 despite different diameter lines L being
supported by the hanger 52.
[0061] Returning to FIG. 8, the attachment section 66 includes a
first section 80 that extends from each of the first and second
legs 62a, 62b respectively. A second section 82 extends from the
first section 80 and forms the locking barb 54 (FIGS. 2 and 3) that
is configured to lock against an attachment surface 22 of the
adapter 10 once the locking barb 54 is inserted through the
aperture 26 in the adapter 10. In one embodiment, the locking barb
54 is integral with the second section 82 and extends from and is
generally orthogonal thereto. Each locking barb 54 includes a barb
contact point or line 84 for contacting the attachment surface. In
another embodiment, the locking barb 54 is integral with the second
section 82, but also includes a curved, folded-over rib 86 (not
shown). The folded-over rib links the second section 82 and the
locking barb 54. The folded-over rib can be curved to provide
greater strength to the locking barb 54, which increases the
ability of the locking barb 54 to grasp the edge of the aperture
26.
[0062] The locking barb 54 can be dimensioned to match the shape of
the aperture 26 of the attachment surface (the adapter 10). For
example, in an embodiment where the aperture is circular, the
locking barb is curved to match the curvature of the aperture. If
the aperture is square, then the locking barb can be formed with a
straight edge to match the side of the aperture. Configuring the
locking barb to match the shape of the aperture creates a stiffer
locking barb that is able to better grasp the aperture.
[0063] FIGS. 2 and 8 shows how the attachment section 66 is secured
to the supporting structure which can include, for example, the
adapter 10, a horizontal transmission line bridge or a vertical
antenna tower. The supporting structure includes the exemplary
circular aperture 26 defined by a wall 28. The first section 80
contacts the wall 28 at one or both of a pair of contact points 84.
The locking barb 54 is configured to lock against the adapter 10
once the locking barb 54 is inserted through the aperture 26. The
adapter 10 includes an outer surface and an inner surface. The
surfaces of the supporting structure may be rough due to, for
example, irregularities, bubbles, and/or barbs caused by the
galvanizing process and/or the punching process that produces the
aperture. Therefore, the hanger 52 is designed such that each
locking barb 54 contacts the inner surface of the supporting
structure at the barb contact line or point 84. Because the hanger
52 includes two locking barbs 54, one on each leg 62a, 62b the
hanger 52 can be more securely attached to the supporting structure
(e.g., the adapter 10), despite any irregularities on the inner
surface.
[0064] The wall 28 of the aperture 26 may also be rough because of
irregularities, bubbles, and/or barbs caused by the galvanizing
process and/or the punching process that produces the aperture.
Therefore, in one embodiment, contact with these irregularities is
minimized by having the first section 80 of the hanger 52 only
contact the wall 28 at one or both of the pair of contact points 84
instead of, e.g., a curved surface contacting a large portion of
the wall.
[0065] FIG. 14 shows how the attachment section 66 of the hanger 52
is secured to the mounting section of another hanger 552 (e.g., in
a stacked arrangement, in which the other hanger is an
adapter/hanger member 552, as will be described below). Alternately
(though not shown), the mounting section can include a square
mounting hole disposed therein. The locking barb is configured to
lock against the mounting section once the locking barb is inserted
through the mounting hole. The square mounting hole is defined by a
wall having a pair of opposing lips. The square mounting hole
provides an anti-rotation feature that keeps the hangers aligned.
Specifically, the locking barb includes a notch that is configured
to lock against the lip of another hanger once the locking barb is
inserted through the mounting hole and the first and second legs
are released. The notch insures that the second row hanger is
aligned with the first row hanger. The aligned hangers insure that
the transmission lines secured therein are generally parallel to
each other. The notch in each locking barb insures a secure
connection between each additional hanger. The notches lock the
distal end of both legs against the opposing lips of the mounting
section of another hanger (e.g., the stacked arrangement).
[0066] As illustrated in FIGS. 8, 13 and 14, the mounting hole 60
can be circular in shape and can include a lip 88 (or stiffening
flange) that encompasses the entire mounting hole 60. By having a
lip 88 that encircles the entire mounting hole 60, the locking barb
54 is less likely to disengage from the lip 88 and slip out.
Further, the lip 88 strengthens the hole 60 against tearing or
deformation, The depth of the lip 88 can be configured to simulate
the thickness of a typical tower structural support.
[0067] Moreover, adding an additional row of hangers to a prior row
of hangers (e.g., the stacked arrangement) produces a "chaining
effect." The resulting assembly of hangers is not rigid; rather,
the assembly is able to flex between the hanger pairs. Therefore,
the problems of side loading produced by a rigid hanger assembly
attached to an antenna tower are reduced. For example, a rigid
assembly acts as a lever arm which reduces the force required to
pull the rigid hanger assembly from its supporting structure. With
the chaining effect produced by the hangers, however, the side
loading is distributed through the various attachment and mounting
sections of the multiple hangers, rather than transferring the
entire load back to the base hanger. Therefore, the load is shared
by the hangers. Thus, the hangers can act as a "spring" during a
wind gust rather than as a rigid member. This "spring" effect
dampens the cable vibration and makes the transmission lines
secured by the hangers less likely to be blown off the supporting
structure. Further, the "give" in the joints of a chained assembly
of hangers dampens vibrations in the supported lines, thus
mitigating undesired loosening of transmission line connectors by
vibration in the connected lines.
[0068] The hanger 52 also includes stop arms 90 (best seen in FIG.
8) that extend down from the first and second legs 62a,b to help
decrease the likelihood of the hangers 52 breaking or becoming
disengaged during a wind gust. When the hanger 52 is attached to
the attachment surface 22 of the adapter 10, the stop arms 90 rest
against the top 24 of the attachment surface and provide support.
In one embodiment, the stop arms 90 are a gussetted flap of
metal.
[0069] The stop arms 90 can include a bent portion that defines
out-turned sides 92, that are generally orthogonal to the first and
second legs 62a,b. The out-turned side 92 acts like a brace on the
attachment surface 10 if the hanger 52 were to sway due to wind.
The out-turned sides 92 are structured to engage or dig into the
attachment surface 22. More specifically, the out-turned sides 92
include a sharp point that digs into the attachment surface 22,
effectively gripping the surface during high wind gusts. Thus, the
attachment section 66 stays centered over the aperture 26 of the
attachment surface 22, keeping the locking barbs 54 in place. Also,
the out-turned sides 92 along with the in-turned sides on the stop
arms 90 create a wider "footprint" on the top 24 of the attachment
surface 22. The wider "footprint" decreases the likelihood of the
attachment section 66 disengaging from the attachment surface
10.
[0070] As best shown in FIG. 8, the compliant area 70 is provided
by a fulcrum or bend 94. The compliant area 70 enables the first
and second legs 62a,b to be pressed together, thus, allowing the
locking barbs 54 to fit through an aperture 26 in an attachment
surface 22 of the adapter 10. The compliant area 70 also allows the
first and second legs 62a,b to expand by spring force once the
locking barb 54 is inserted through the aperture 26. This expansion
brings the first section 80 into contact with, e.g., the wall 28 of
the aperture 26 at one or both of the pair of contact points
84.
[0071] The design of the hanger 52 and, in particular, the extended
section 64 allows for easy installation of the hanger 52.
Specifically, the extended section 64 allows larger diameter lines
L to be inserted into the hanger 52. The user then wraps his or her
fingers around the hanger 52, and the line L therein, and presses
the legs 62a,b together. The extended section 64 places the
retention section 56 further away from the attachment surface 22 of
the adapter 10, the supporting structure or the mounting section.
In addition, the attachment section 66 is closer to the user's
fingers and thumb, thus, allowing a greater range of motion and
greater force to be applied to the hanger 52 when inserting the
attachment section 66 into an attachment surface 22 and reduces the
required insertion force. The extended section 64 also gives the
user more room to work, and avoids the user's hands from hitting
the attachment surface 66 during installation. The mounting section
58 further extends the distance the user's fingers and thumb are
from the attachment surface 22.
[0072] The design of the hanger 52 and, in particular, the extended
section 64 also provides a more dynamic snap-in action than prior
hangers when the hanger 52 is installed into an attachment surface
22. The two locking barbs 54 also provide less insertion resistance
than prior hanger designs having four locking barbs. Having only
two locking barbs 54 reduces the number of contact points that must
contact, for example, the outer surface of the supporting structure
during insertion of the hanger into the supporting structure.
Additionally, the two barb 54 design of the attachment section 66
reduces insertion resistance by reducing the cam pressure required
and the amount of deflection required to insert the hanger 52 into
the attachment surface 22. This reduces the amount of force
required to insert the hanger 52 into, for example, an adapter 10,
a supporting structure or a mounting section of another hanger 52.
The hanger 52, thus, requires less manual dexterity to install and
uninstall than prior hangers.
[0073] In addition, the ergonomic design of the hanger 52,
including the extended section 64, allows for easier installation.
These are important features, especially where the typical
exemplary transmission line L is in excess of 1,000 feet in length
and a hanger 52 is mounted every three feet. Consequently, hundreds
of hangers 52 must be installed to support such a transmission line
L. The hours required to install that many hangers 52 is great.
Accordingly, transmission line L installation is costly. In
addition, it can be difficult to find someone willing to install
transmission line hangers 52 high above the ground, especially if
extra hardware is required to install the hangers 52. Therefore, a
hanger 52 that requires less installation time and is easier to
install reduces the number of hours required for installation,
thus, reducing installation costs.
[0074] In use, the hanger 52 may be installed easily and quickly by
pulling apart the legs 62a, 62b and slipping the hanger 52 over the
line L such that the curved members 68 are disposed around the line
L and the spring fingers 74a are forced against the line L, thus,
pressing the line L against the opposing line stops 78. The legs
62a, 62b are then pressed together to allow the locking barbs 54 to
be inserted through the aperture 26 in an attachment surface, such
as the adapter 10, as illustrated in FIG. 8. The hanger 52 is
inserted into the aperture 26 until the first sections 80 snap into
contact with the top surface 24 or mounting surface 22 at one or
both of the pair of contact points 84 and the barb 54 contact point
contacts the inner surface of the adapter 10, as illustrated in
FIG. 2. This process is repeated for each hanger 52 that is
installed into like adapters 10 along the length of the line L.
Likewise, the legs 62a, 62b are pressed together to allow the
locking barbs 54 to be inserted through the mounting hole 60 in the
mounting section of another hanger (such as the adapter/hanger 552,
as illustrated in FIG. 14). Then, the legs 62a, 62b are released
and the spring force provided by the compliant area 70 expands the
legs 62a, 62b until the barbs 54 locks against the lip 88, as best
illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 8.
[0075] This process is repeated for each hanger 52 that is
installed as an additional row onto a previously installed
hanger(s). Thus, for example, each additional transmission line L
run that is added to, e.g., an antenna tower is independent of the
previous transmission line L run. In other words, each additional
hanger 52 can be installed independent of, and without
unassembling, the prior hanger(s).
[0076] The hanger 52 can also be readily uninstalled and reused in
another location. To uninstall the hanger 52, the legs 62a, 62b are
pressed together to allow the locking barbs 64 to be removed from
the attachment surface 22. Next, the retention section 56 is
slipped off the transmission line L by pulling apart the legs 62a,
62b and disengaging the spring fingers 74a from the transmission
line L jacket.
[0077] One aspect of the present invention provides a one piece,
stackable transmission line hanger 52 that is inexpensive to
produce. For example, the typical cost of a traditional hanger
capable of holding three transmission lines is about three times
greater than the cost for three 7/8'' diameter stackable hangers
(this estimate depends on the style and amount of hardware required
for the traditional hanger). Moreover, the additional hangers do
not need to be bought until the additional transmission line runs
are added. Thus, the extra cost for the additional hangers can be
deferred until the additional transmission line runs are actually
installed.
[0078] Therefore, the present invention provides a stackable line
hanger 52 (e.g., for a transmission line, pipe or conduit) capable
of securing one or more pipes, conduit or lines L to an attachment
surface. The stackable hanger 52 is expandable to accommodate
additional lines L without disassembling the prior hanger(s) 52, is
expandable to accommodate a large number of line L diameters, is
inexpensive to produce, and is quickly and easily installed. In
addition, the stackable hanger 52 reduces the number of components
required to secure one or more lines L, reduces installation time,
reduces longitudinal movement of the line L within each hanger 52,
and allows for simple installation of additional lines L.
[0079] The adapter 10 can also be used to mount a wide variety of
other articles A to the rail 12. For example, as illustrated in
FIG. 3, the adapter 110 can be used to mount conduit, pipe or
tubing T held by a tubing support S to the rail 12. Referring now
to FIGS. 5A-B through 7A-B, there are shown various alternate
embodiments of the adapter. FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate perspective
and top views, respectively, of an adapter 210 that is configured
for receipt of a friction or "push-pin" type of fastener (not
shown), which type of fastener will be recognized by those skilled
in the art. The adapter 210 includes an opening 226 bounded by a
plurality of inwardly/downwardly projecting friction tabs 228.
Because of the inward/downward orientation or angle or the tabs or
projections 228, the fastener readily inserts into the opening 226
(urging the tabs 228 outwardly), but removal is resisted by
engagement of the fastener with the ends 230 of the tabs 228.
[0080] FIGS. 6A and B illustrate perspective and side views of
another alternate embodiment of an adapter 310 that is configured
for receiving a threaded shank or stud, such as a bolt (not shown).
Threads 324 are formed in a sleeve or collar 328 that depends from
the periphery of an opening 326 formed in the top mounting surface
322. FIGS. 7A and B illustrate still another alternate embodiment
of an adapter 410 that is configured to receive a strap-type
support (not shown). Slots 426 are formed in the flanges 430
depending from the top mounting surface 422 that are configured for
engaging ends of the strap. Those skilled in the art will recognize
these straps as well as other configurations that can be used with
this embodiment 410 of the adapter 410. Also as illustrated, the
top mounting surface 422 can be curved or arcuate (as illustrated
in FIGS. 7A and 7B) to conform to the shape of a pipe or conduit
(e.g., electrical conduit) that rests on the adapter 410. Of
course, such an adapter 410 can also be configured with a planar or
flat top surface having suitable saddles or the like (not shown)
for securing a pipe or conduit thereto.
[0081] As will also be appreciated by those skilled in the art,
because of the biased (i.e., sprung) engagement of the adapter 10
to the rail 12, the adapter locks into the rail and can be used in
any orientation. That is, although the present description and
figures illustrate the adapter used with a rail 12 that is oriented
horizontally with the rail open portion upward, the present adapter
10 can in fact be used with the rail in upside-down, or vertical
orientations. In addition, as will also be appreciated by those
skilled in the art, because of the swivel engagement of the hanger
52 to the adapter 10, the line L orientation can be independent of
the rail 12 orientation (as seen in FIGS. 9-11), and thus at any
angle relative to the rail 12.
[0082] Referring now to FIGS. 12-14, there is shown an
adapter/hanger member 552. In this member, a hanger portion 554 is
formed integral with an adapter portion 556, such that the top
surface 524 of the adapter portion 556 extends from a lower region
of the spring legs 562. The remaining portions of the hanger
portion 554 and the adapter portion 556 are as describe above. This
configuration facilitates installation of lines L (e.g., pipe,
conduit and transmission lines) to the underlying supporting rails
12 by use of a single part or member, rather than two separate
items. As seen in FIG. 14, the hanger portion 554 of the member 552
can be configured having an aperture 560 at the top of the hanger
552 for receipt of the locking barbs 54 from a "stacked" hanger
52.
[0083] FIGS. 15-16 illustrate still another embodiment of the
adapter 610 in which the mounting legs 638 converge at an uppermost
region, as indicated at 640, of the adapter 610. This configuration
facilitates readily installing the adapter 610 to an associated
rail 12 simply by snapping the adapter 610 into the space between
the rail inward walls 18. The converging legs 638 facilitate this
installation by providing surfaces 642 against which the rail walls
18 bear to urge the legs 638 toward one another to fit into the
rail 12. Once the ends of the legs 638 are fully inserted into the
rail 12 opening, the legs 638 spring outwardly to lock the adapter
610 to the rail 12.
[0084] FIG. 17 illustrates an alternate embodiment 710 of the
insertion-fit adapter 610 of FIGS. 15-16. In this embodiment of the
snap-in adapter 710, the engaging or snap surfaces 742 extend fully
along the length of the adapter 710, rather than along only a
portion of the adapter length, as shown in the embodiment 610 of
FIGS. 15-16. It will be appreciated that while these embodiments of
the adapter 610, 710 can be used in a variety of applications, they
are well suited for hanging applications. That it, when mounted to
a rail 12 that is ceiling mounted, the locking engagement of the
legs 638, 738 to the rail lips 20 provides an increased "pull-out"
force to pull the adapter 610, 710 from the rail 12.
[0085] FIGS. 18, 19 and 19A illustrate an adapter/hanger member 852
configured to support an article A (such as the illustrated line L)
transverse to the adapter/hanger 852. In this embodiment, the
adapter legs 838 are formed as part of the hanger spring legs 862.
The spring legs 862 can include an opening 864 therein adapted to
receive the line L traversing therethrough. The opening 864 splits
or forms two adapter portions 856. Inwardly extending fingers 866
are configured to resiliently engage the line L as it traverses
through the member 852 to support and secure the line L. The
fingers 866 permit the adapter/hanger 852 to accommodate conduit,
piping, lines and other articles of varying diameters. The member
852 can include an aperture 860 at an upper region for receiving a
stacked hanger such as, for example, the hanger 52 illustrated in
FIG. 8.
[0086] FIG. 20 illustrates still another embodiment of an
adapter/hanger member 952 that includes one adapter portion 956 for
engaging the rail 12, and a support portion 954 having inwardly
extending fingers 966 for resiliently engaging the line L. This
member 952 is similar to the member 852 illustrated in FIGS.
18-19A, except that it includes one adapter portion 956, rather
than two adapter portions 856 of the previous embodiment 852.
[0087] FIG. 21 illustrates an adapter/hanger member 1052 formed
similar to that of the embodiment 852 of FIGS. 18-19A, with the
adapter portion 1056 of the snap-in embodiment 610 illustrated in
FIGS. 15-16. This member 1052 is configured having inwardly or
converging legs 1038 for snap-in insertion into a rail 12 space and
locking to the rail 12.
[0088] FIG. 22 illustrates one arrangement, commonly referred to as
a trapeze support, for supporting lines, such as conduit, piping
and the like. The trapeze support is formed from a rail 12
supported by, for example, threaded rods R secured to a ceiling
surface. The rail 12 can be used to support multiple lines L with
the adapters and adapter/hanger members disclosed above.
[0089] FIG. 23 illustrates a stacked or chained arrangement in
which hangers, such as hanger 52, are supported or hung directly
from a rod R. Those skilled in the art will recognize that often,
these rods R are threaded. In this arrangement, the hangers 52 can
be configured such as that illustrated in FIG. 8. In this
arrangement, a coupling P can be used to couple the first hanger
52a to the rod R. The subsequent hangers 52b and 52c then stack or
hang from the first hanger 52a or from one another to form the
chained arrangement. Those skilled in the art will also recognize
that the first hanger 52a can be hung directly from the rod R. To
this end, the opening in the hanger 52a can be formed as a bore
configured to receive the rod R (with a nut, not shown, to secure
the hanger 52a to the rod R), or the opening can be threaded to
directly receive the rod R. A simple clamp, washer or the like W
(FIG. 27) can be used at the terminal end of the chain to close the
last hanger 52.
[0090] FIGS. 24, 25 and 27 illustrate variations of the stacked or
chained arrangement. FIG. 24 illustrates the hangers 52 mounted to
a ceiling from a coupling P. FIG. 25 illustrates an arrangement in
which the first hanger 52a is mounted to an overhead pipe or line
G, by an alternate coupling G'. FIG. 26 illustrates a configuration
in which the hanger 52 is attached to a structural member mount
(e.g., beam clamp C) by an exemplary threaded clamping element
E.
[0091] FIG. 28 illustrates an arrangement in which an equipment
item, such as a junction box, electrical connection box, instrument
box (indicated at B) or the like is supported from a rail 12 by an
adapter, such as, for example, the adapter 610 illustrated in FIGS.
15-16, or the adapter 10 illustrated in FIGS. 1-6A. In such an
arrangement, the box B can be mounted to the adapter by a bolt 650
or like fastener, and the adapter 610 can be snapped into the rail
12. In this arrangement, the box B can be mounted to any surface
(e.g., ceiling or wall) or supporting structure to which the rail
12 can be mounted.
[0092] To this end, the adapter and the adapter/hanger member and
associated rail 12 have been described as having downwardly,
upwardly, inwardly and outwardly oriented portions, for ease of
description only. As such, the invention is not to be bound by any
of these orientations themselves, but is best understood when these
orientations are taken in context with the structural and
functional features of the present invention. To this end, as
described above and as best seen in FIGS. 9-11, the rails and
adapter and adapter/hanger member can be used to support conduit,
piping and lines in various orientations, e.g. mounted
horizontally, vertically, with the conduit, piping or line parallel
to the rail (FIG. 10), transverse to the rail (FIG. 9), and at an
angle to the rail (FIG. 11).
[0093] It is also known to construct racks and the like from anchor
rails 12. That is, rails 12 can be used in a free-standing
arrangement as vertical and horizontal supports for electrical
junction boxes and termination boxes as well as for supporting
mechanical equipment such as valves and the like, as described
above. It is anticipated that the present adapter and
adapter/hanger can be used in these applications as well.
[0094] Those skilled in the art will recognize the myriad advantage
and benefits of the present adapter and adapter/hanger member. For
example, the chained or stacked configuration can "grow" from
either direction (i.e., from the feet or barbs, or from the
top/aperture), and can be mounted from a surface, such as a wall or
ceiling, as well as a rail. Essentially, the adapter can be used to
provide and opening or aperture "in space," that is by recognized
attachment to a structural member, surface or support, from which
hangers and adapter/hanger members can be supported.
[0095] The present adapter and adapter/hanger members provide
design and installation flexibility in that lines (such as
transmission lines, piping, conduit and the like) can be routed
parallel, transverse and at angles to rails from which they are
supported. In addition, when mounting to a surface, again, any
angle for routing can be carried out.
[0096] Also possible is the routing of different types of lines.
For example, electrical conduit and pneumatic piping/tubing can be
carried by hangers in a single stack to facilitate installation and
reduce installed costs.
[0097] The disclosure of each patent and patent application cited
herein, whether or not done so specifically, is incorporated herein
by reference.
[0098] While the present invention has been described with
reference to one or more particular embodiments, those skilled in
the art will recognize that many changes may be made thereto
without departing from the spirit and scope of the present
invention. Each of these embodiments and obvious variations thereof
is contemplated as falling within the spirit and scope of the
claimed invention, which is set forth in the following claims.
* * * * *