Pipe spacer and clamp

An improved pipe clamp for supporting a length of pipe such that the pipe is secured in a stand-off position. The pipe clamp includes a pipe holding section, a spacer section, and a connection arrangement. The pipe holding section includes a cavity that is designed to encircle over 50% of an outer perimeter of the pipe. The spacer section includes at least one spacer flange that is connected between the pipe holding section and the connection arrangement and forms a space between the pipe holding section and the connection arrangement. The connection arrangement designed to be secured to a building structure.

The present invention relates to devices for supporting elongate members, more particularly relates to an improved spacer and clamp for supporting lengths of pipe, and even more particularly relates to an improved spacer and clamp for supporting lengths of pipe to enable insulation to be easily and/or conveniently placed about at least a portion of a pipe.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

As energy costs increase, many consumers look for ways to cut the energy costs associated with their home. In addition, various state and federal programs have been created to provide tax incentives for homeowners and businesses to reduce energy consumption. One of the larger energy consumption units in a home or business is the hot water heater. Many manufacturers have improved the efficiency of hot water heaters based on state and federal requirements and consumer demand. Although the efficiency of hot water heaters has increased, the pipes that are connected to the hot water heater and which supply hot water to various regions in a home or business are typically not insulated. As such, significant energy loss still occurs from the uninsulated pipes.

Pipes that convey cold water can also be insulated, especially in cold environments so as to inhibit or prevent the freezing of the water in the pipe. Pipes that convey cold water are also insulated to prevent condensation and moisture damage.

Pipe insulation for pipes is readily available, but such insulation is very difficult to insert about an installed pipe. Conventional pipe insulation for standard business and household pipes (e.g, 0.5-3 includes in diameter) typically is manufactured in axially sized portions for a particular diameter pipe. This insulation generally includes a longitudinal slit to enable an installer to fit the insulation about a pipe. One or both face surfaces of the slit can include an adhesive to secure together the faces of slit.

Typical pipe clamps that are used to secure a pipe in position either secure the pipe directly to a surface or hang the pipe from a surface. Clamps that secure the pipe directly to a surface are commonly referred to as “clevis hangers.” The pipes are typically hung in a home or business prior to insulation being placed on the pipe. The use of the standard pipe clamps makes it difficult and time consuming to fit the pipe insulation about the pipe. Typically an installer has to notch the insulation around the building structure in contact with the pipe, leaving the underside of the pipe uninsulated. Furthermore, an installer typically has to cut out a portion of the insulation where the clamp is located, thereby allowing the insulation halves to be fitted about the pipe and over the clamps. In some situations, the installer must then “putty over” and/or otherwise seal the cut out holes to reduce heat loss from the pipe. These operations take a significant amount of time, thus significantly increasing the cost of installing the insulation. In addition to the increased installation costs, the sealant used about the pipe clamps may not adequately insulate the pipe as well as the insulation. In addition, the sealant over time can deteriorate, thus result in cracks and ultimately break away from the pipe and clamps. In regions where the pipe lays flat against the wall or beam, it is nearly impossible to fit the insulation about the pipe.

In view of the current state of the art of pipe clamps, there is a need for a pipe clamp that can easily and effectively hang pipes in a home or business and which allows for easy installation of pipe insulation after the pipe has been hung.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to devices for supporting elongate members, more particularly relates to an improved spacer and clamp for supporting lengths of pipe, and even more particularly relates to an improved spacer and clamp for supporting lengths of pipe to enable insulation to be easily placed about the pipe.

The stand off pipe clamps of the present invention have one or more of the following features, namely 1) that the clamp that holds the pipe have a low profile, thus not be bulky, 2) that the standoff of the pipe clamp be generally parallel with the pipe when holding the pipe, and/or 3) that the standoff of the pipe clamp be of sufficient length to enable the intended pipe insulation to fit around the pipe without interference. The stand off feature improved spacer and clamp can also or alternatively be useful for pipes (insulated, non-insulated) so as to facilitate in the use of such pipes with cross wires, cross pipes, other small obstructions on a structure on which the pipe is to be installed, etc. The stand off feature improved spacer and clamp can also or alternatively be used to enable dry wall, paneling, etc. to be applied directly to ceiling beams etc. The invention will be described in reference to pipes; however, it will be appreciated that the pipe spacer and clamp can be used for other types of applications (e.g., cables, etc.). The improved spacer and clamp of the present invention includes at least three components, namely 1) a pipe holding section, 2) a spacer section, and 3) a connection arrangement. The pipe holding section is configured so as to encircle at least a majority of the outer perimeter of the pipe. The pipe holding section is designed to fit at least partially about at least one pipe and to at least partially support the at least one pipe. The spacer section includes one or more spacer legs that are secured to the pipe holding section. The spacer section is designed to space the pipe holding section from a structure (e.g., wall, ceiling, floor, etc.). The connection arrangement is designed to facilitate in securing the spacer section to a structure.

In one non-limiting aspect of the invention, the pipe holding section is designed to enable an installer to fit the pipe holding section about a majority of the outer circumference of a portion of the pipe. For generally circular pipes, the pipe holding section is designed such that it encircles at least about 181° of the outer diameter of the pipe, typically at least about 190° of the outer diameter of the pipe, more typically at least about 200° of outer diameter of the pipe, even more typically at least about 250° of outer diameter of the pipe, still even more typically at least about 300° of outer diameter of the pipe, and yet still even more typically at least about 340° of outer diameter of the pipe. As can be appreciated, the pipe holding section can be designed such that it encircles the complete outer diameter of the pipe. The pipe holding section has an internal cavity that defines the region wherein the pipe is retained. This internal cavity can have many different cross-section shapes (e.g., circular, C-shaped, U-shaped, polygonal, etc.). The length of the cavity is non-limiting. Generally the length of the cavity is about 0.1-6 inches, and typically about 0.5-2 inches; however, other lengths can be used. The pipe holding section can be formed of a variety of different materials (e.g., metal, plastic, composite materials, etc.). Generally the pipe holding section is formed of a metal and/or plastic material. The pipe holding section can also be formed of a bendable or flexible material that facilitates in inserting one or more pipes in the internal cavity of the pipe holding section; however, this is not required. When the pipe holding section is formed of a bendable or flexible material, plastic materials generally have a thickness of less than about 0.3 inch, and typically about 0.05-0.25 inch can be used; however, other thicknesses can be used. The plastic material can include one or more slots, depressions, etc. to facilitate in the bending and/or flexibility of the housing. Metal materials can also or alternatively be used for forming a bendable or flexible pipe holding section. Metals that can be used include tin, carbon steel, copper, aluminum etc. When metals are used, the metal generally has a thickness of less than about 0.3 inch, and typically about 0.01-0.2 inch can be used; however, other thicknesses can be used. The metal material can include one or more slots, depressions, etc. to facilitate in the bending and/or flexibility of the housing. The size of the internal cavity is non-limiting, thus can be designed to accommodate any pipe size. Typically the internal cavity is sized to hold a pipe having an outer diameter of about 0.25-6 inches; however, the internal cavity can be designed to fit other pipe sizes. The thickness of the holding section can be the same or different for different regions of the holding section. For example, one or more portions of the holding section can include a thinner portion (e.g., slotted section, etc.) to facilitate in the opening and/or closing of the holding section so as to facilitate in the insertion/removal of a pipe from the holding section.

In another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the invention, the pipe holding section can be formed of one component or be formed of two or more components that are connected together. When the pipe holding section is formed of two or more components, the components can be secured together in a variety of ways (e.g., hinge, adhesive, solder connection, weld bead, melted seam, clamp, nylon tie, etc.).

In still another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the invention, the internal cavity of the pipe holding section can include one or more pipe contacts that are designed to create a tight fit for the pipe and/or to reduce rotation, vibration and/or other types of movement of the pipe while in the internal cavity; however, this is not required. When one or more pipe contacts are included in the internal cavity, such pipe contacts can include, but are not limited to, fins, rubber material, foam, ribs, barbs, compressive materials, adhesive materials, etc.).

In still yet another and/or alternative non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the spacer section includes one or more legs that are designed to form a space between the pipe holding section and the connection arrangement. This space can be used to enable insulation to be easily and conveniently fitted about a pipe and the pipe holding section after a pipe has been secured to a structure by the improved spacer and clamp of the present invention. By suspending the pipe away from a structure to which it is secured, it becomes easy to install split seam foam insulation about the pipe after the pipe has been installed in a home or business. The improved spacer and clamp generally includes one or two spacer sections; however, more spacer sections can be used. At least one spacer section is connected between the pipe holding section and the connection arrangement. In one non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, at least one spacer has a generally straight or planar profile over at least a portion of the longitudinal length of the spacer; however, this is not required. The generally straight or planar profile on the spacer is designed to enable the spacer to fit in a slit in the insulation that is to be placed about the pipe and improve the spacer and clamp of the present invention. The size and shape of the spacer is generally selected so as to not be bulky, which bulkiness could interfere with the ease to which insulation, when used, is fitted about the pipe that is being supported by the pipe clamp. The length or height of the generally straight or planar profile on the spacer is non-limiting. Generally the height of the generally straight or planar profile on the spacer is at least as long as the thickness of insulation to be installed about the pipe. Generally the height of the generally straight or planar profile on the spacer is about 0.2-4 inches, and typically about 0.25-2 inches; however, other heights can be used. In another and/or additional non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, at least one spacer, when two or more spacers are included on the improved spacer and clamp of the present invention, one or more of the spacers can include a connection system to enable two or more of the spacers to be connected together; however, the inclusion of a connection system is not required. Non-limiting connection systems include tab-latch arrangements, Velcro connections, adhesive connections, clamp connections, clip arrangement, snap connections, bolt arrangement, screw arrangement, rivet arrangement, etc. When used, the connection system can facilitate in securing together two or more spacers. In still another and/or additional non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, at least one spacer, when two or more spacers are included on the improved spacer and clamp of the present invention, one or more of the spacers can include a connection system to enable one or more of the spacers to be connected to a connection arrangement and/or pipe holding section; however, the inclusion of a connection system is not required. Non-limiting connection systems include tab-latch arrangements, Velcro connections, adhesive connections, clamp connections, clip arrangements, snap connections, bolt arrangement, screw arrangement, rivet arrangement, etc.

In another and/or alternative non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the improved spacer and clamp of the present invention includes a connection arrangement that is designed to facilitate in the connection of the improved spacer and clamp to a structure (e.g., wall, ceiling, floor, beams, columns, poles, etc.). The connection arrangement can take many different forms. In one non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the connection arrangement includes one or more legs connected to one or more of the spacer sections. The one or more legs of the connection arrangement can be connected to the one or more spacer sections so as to form an angle of about 30-160°, typically about 45-135°, more typically about 60-120°, and even more typically about 75-105°; however, other angles can be used. In another and/or additional non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the connection arrangement can include one or more gripping members to facilitate in securing the connection arrangement to a structure; however, this is not required. Such gripping members can include, but are not limited to, barbs, ribs, dimples, non-smooth surfaces, adhesive, etc. In still another and/or additional non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the connection arrangement can include one or more connection openings to enable a screw, nail, bolt, etc. to facilitate in securing the connection arrangement to a structure; however, this is not required. In one non-limiting aspect of this embodiment, the one or more connection openings can pass generally perpendicularly through the legs of the connection arrangement or pass at some non-perpendicular angle through the legs (e.g., 30°-89°, etc.). When the one or more connection openings pass at some non-perpendicular angle through the legs, the legs can have a varying thickness along the longitudinal length of the legs; however, this is not required. In yet another and/or additional non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the connection arrangement can include one or more connectors that enable two or more legs of the connection arrangement to be connected together prior to or when the connection arrangement is connected to a structure; however, this is not required. In one non-limiting aspect of this embodiment, two or more legs of the connection arrangement include an connector such as, but not limited to, a tab-latch arrangement, Velcro connection, adhesive connection, clamp connection, clip arrangement, snap connection, bolt arrangement, screw arrangement, rivet arrangement, etc. In another and/or additional non-limiting aspect of this embodiment, two or more legs of the connection arrangement include one or more connection openings to enable a screw, nail, bolt, etc. to facilitate in securing the two legs together. In other non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the connection arrangement is able to be mounted to steel channel mounting systems known generically as Unistrut; however, this is not required.

In still another and/or alternative non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the improved spacer and clamp of the present invention can include color coding to identify use of the improved spacer and clamp with hot or cold pipes; however, this is not required. The color coding could be used wherever it is desirable to insulate pipes, whether it is to retain heat or to prevent condensation. Examples of such applications include use in the HVAC (Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning) industry; industrial, commercial and medical piping systems used to convey liquids or gases, etc.

In still yet another and/or alternative non-limiting embodiment of the invention, there is provided an improved insulation system that can be used to facilitate in fitting the insulation over installed pipe. In one non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the insulation is in the form of a tubular foam material that includes a longitudinal slit to enable the insulation to be fitted over a pipe. One or both of the inside surfaces of the slit can include an adhesive material to facilitate in the connecting together of the slit surfaces; however, this is not required. The tubular foam material also includes one or more slots or cut-out regions that facilitate in forming elbow structures in the tubular foam material and/or to create a T-connection or cross connection for the tubular foam material.

One non-limiting object of the present invention is the provision of an improved spacer and clamp that simplifies the installation of pipe to a structure.

Another and/or additional non-limiting object of the present invention is the provision of an improved spacer and clamp that simplifies the installation of insulation about a pipe after the pipe has been connected to a structure.

Still another and/or additional non-limiting object of the present invention is the provision of an improved configurations for tubular insulation to be connected to pipe that has been connected to a structure.

These and other objects and advantages will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon the reading and following of this description taken together with the accompanying drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Referring now toFIGS. 1-34, which illustrate several non-limiting embodiments of the present invention, there is provided an improved spacer and clamp that can be used to easily and conveniently secure pipe to various structures. The improved spacer and clamp can be used with many types of pipe (e.g., copper pipe, PVC pipe, iron pipe, stainless steel pipe, rubber pipe, vinyl pipe, etc.). Although the improved spacer and clamp will be described with particular reference for use with pipes, it will be appreciated that the improved spacer and clamp can be used with items other than pipes and/or in conjunction with pipes (e.g., electric cables/wires, audio/visual cables/wires, computer/network cables/wires, telephone cables/wires, television cables/wires, rope, cords, chains, cables, etc.).

Referring now toFIGS. 1-6, there are illustrated various views of one non-limiting embodiment of the invention. The improved spacer and clamp100includes three basic components, namely 1) a pipe holding section110, 2) a spacer section150, and 3) a connection arrangement200. The materials used to form the improved spacer and clamp100is non-limiting. Generally, the improved spacer and clamp100is made of a plastic and/or metal material. The pipe holding section110, the spacer section150and connection arrangement200can be formed of the same or different materials. The improved spacer and clamp100can be formed from a single piece of material or be formed from multiple pieces of materials that can be secured and/or connected together. The size of the improved spacer and clamp100is also non-limiting. The improved spacer and clamp100can be made in a variety of ways such as, but not limited to, molding, stamping, cutting, casting, etc.

As illustrated inFIG. 1, the connection arrangement200is secured to a building structure B such as a wood column or beam in a wall, floor or ceiling. The connection arrangement includes two legs210,212. Each of the legs210,212include a connection opening214,216, respectively that is designed to receive a screw250or some other connection element (e.g, nail, bolt, rivet, etc.) to secure each leg to building structure B. As can be appreciated, one or both legs do not require a preformed connection opening. In such an arrangement, an installer could drive a nail, screw, etc. through the legs to form a connection opening during the connection of the legs to a structure. As can also be appreciated, one or both legs can include marks or pop-out regions that facilitate in locating a region on the legs to insert the connection element and/or to form the connection opening in the legs. As can be appreciated, the legs can be connected by other or additional arrangements (e.g., adhesive, clamp, etc). As can also be appreciated, the legs can include more than one connection opening for use with more than one connector. As illustrated inFIGS. 1,2and4, the base of the legs210,212includes a gripping arrangement in the form of a plurality of ribs220. The ribs220can be used to facilitate in providing a grip surface to the base of the legs during and/or after connecting the legs to the building structure B. As can be appreciated, the use of a gripping arrangement is not required on one or both legs. As can also be appreciated, when a gripping arrangement is used, gripping arrangements other than or in addition to ribs can be used (e.g., barbs, adhesive, etc.).

The spacer section150is formed by two spacer flanges160,170that lie in a longitudinal axis PL1. The spacer flanges are illustrated as having the same width and height; however, this is not required. The spacer flanges are illustrated as having a uniform thickness along the height of the spacer flanges; however, this is not required. Each of the spacer flanges are connected to a leg of the connection arrangement. The spacer flanges are illustrated as being connected to the end of a leg of the connection arrangement; however, it can be appreciated that one or both spacer flanges can be connected to other regions of the leg of the connection arrangement. The spacer flanges are illustrated as being connected to the leg of the connection arrangement at about a 90° angle; however, it can be appreciated that one or both spacer flanges can be connected to the leg of the connection arrangement at other angles. The height of the spacer flanges is non-limiting; however, the height is generally selected so that tubular insulation I can be inserted about pipe P as illustrated inFIG. 6. Generally, the height of spacer flanges160,170is at least about 0.25, and typically about 0.5-2 inches; however, other heights can be used. As best illustrated inFIGS. 1,3and4, the spacer flanges160,170are spaced apart from one another along the longitudinal axis PL2. The spacer flanges are also illustrated as being positioned edge to edge from one another when the spacer and clamp100is connected to the building structure B as illustrated inFIG. 1. As can be appreciated, the spacer flanges do not have to be positioned edge to edge from one another when the spacer and clamp100is connected to the building structure B, thus the spacer and clamp100can be designed such that a space or gap exists between the spacer flanges when the spacer and clamp100is connected to the building structure B.

The pipe holding section110is illustrated as having a tubular housing120having a longitudinal axis PL2 and that has a generally circular cross-sectional shape as best illustrated inFIGS. 1,2, and6. As illustrated inFIG. 2, the longitudinal axis of spacer flanges150,160is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis PL2 of the tubular housing130. As can be appreciated, the cross-sectional shape of housing120can be a shape other than circular. The housing120forms an inner cavity130at least when the spacer and clamp100is connected to the building structure B as illustrated inFIG. 1. The inner cavity130is illustrated as having a generally circular cross-sectional shape to accommodate standard shaped pipe P; however, it will be appreciated that the cross-sectional shape of cavity130can be other than circular. The inner surface of housing120can include one or more gripping elements; however, this is not required. As illustrated inFIGS. 2 and 5, the inner surface of housing120includes gripping elements in the form of barbs140; however, it will be appreciated that other or additional types of gripping elements can be used. The housing120is illustrated as being formed of a single piece of material. Generally the material is a flexible material to enable the spacer legs to be separated from one another while not damaging or breaking the housing so as to enable the pipe to be inserted into the cavity of the housing. As can be appreciated, the housing120can be formed of two components and connected together by a rotating, pivoting or flexible hinge, not shown. If some type of hinge is used, the hinge is generally located at the opposite side of the housing from the location where the spacer legs are connected to the housing; however, this is not required.

The assembly of an insulated pipe P using the spacer and clamp100will now be briefly described. As illustrated inFIG. 5, pipe holding section110is formed of a bendable and/or flexible material that enables a pipe P to be inserted into the cavity130of housing120.FIG. 5illustrates that the legs212,214are pulled back so that pipe P can be slipped into cavity130. As can be appreciated, one of the legs can be secured to building structure B and then one leg can be pulled back to slip the pipe into the cavity130. Once the pipe is positioned in cavity130, one or both legs are then secured to building structure B by screws250as illustrated inFIG. 1. The legs may have to be bent together to snugly fit the pipe in the cavity130; however, this may not be required. The gripping members140, when used, hold the pipe in position in the cavity130of housing120so as to inhibit or prevent vibration, rotation and/or other types of movement of the pipe in the cavity. Once the legs are secured to the building structure via screws250through connection openings214,216, insulation I as illustrated inFIG. 6, can be placed about the pipe and spacer and clamp100. Insulation I is typically a foam material that includes a longitudinal slit S. When installing the insulation, the edges of slit S are pulled apart thereby enabling the insulation to be fit about the pipe. Since the pipe is mounted at a spaced distance from the building structure, the insulation can be easily and conveniently placed about the complete outer perimeter of the pipe. The insulation can also be placed completely or nearly completely about housing120as illustrated inFIG. 6. The spacer flanges160,170are designed to extend generally parallel to the inside faces of slit S of the insulation. As such, the insulation conforms to the housing and the slit faces engage the space flanges thereby allowing for easy and convenient installation of the insulation about the spacer and clamp100. When the faces of the slit S include an adhesive, or an adhesive is applied to the slit face, the slit faces can be then secured to the spacer flanges160,170; however, this is not required. As can be appreciated, the insulation can be inserted about the pipe and spacer and clamp prior to being secured to the building structure.

Referring now toFIGS. 7 and 8, another improved spacer and clamp300is disclosed. The improved spacer and clamp300includes three basic components, namely 1) a pipe holding section310, 2) a spacer section350, and 3) a connection arrangement400. The materials used to form the improved spacer and clamp300are non-limiting. Generally, the improved spacer and clamp300is made of a plastic and/or metal material. The pipe holding section310, the spacer section350and connection arrangement400can be formed of the same or different materials. The improved spacer and clamp300can be formed from a single piece of material or be formed from multiple pieces of materials that can be secured and/or connected together. The size of the improved spacer and clamp300is also non-limiting. The improved spacer and clamp300can be made in a variety of ways such as, but not limited to, molding, stamping, cutting, casting, etc.

As illustrated inFIG. 7, the connection arrangement400is secured to a building structure B such as a wood column or beam in a wall, floor or ceiling. The connection arrangement includes two legs410,412. Each of the legs410,412include a connection opening414,416, respectively, that is designed to receive a screw450or some other connection element (e.g, nail, bolt, rivet, etc.) to secure each leg to building structure B. As can be appreciated, one or both legs do not require a preformed connection opening. In such an arrangement, an installer could drive a nail, screw, etc. through the legs to form a connection opening during the connection of the legs to a structure. As can also be appreciated, one or both legs can include marks or pop-out regions that facilitate in locating a region on the legs to insert the connection element and/or to form the connection opening in the legs. As can be appreciated, the legs can be connected by other or additional arrangements (e.g., adhesive, clamp, etc). As can also be appreciated, the legs can include more than one connection opening for use with more than one connector. The base of the legs410,412can include a gripping arrangement, not shown.

The spacer section350is formed by two spacer flanges360,370. The spacer flanges are illustrated as having the same width and height; however, this is not required. The spacer flanges are illustrated as having a uniform thickness along the height of the spacer flanges; however, this is not required. Each of the spacer flanges are connected to a leg of the connection arrangement. The spacer flanges are illustrated as being connected to the end of a leg of the connection arrangement; however, it can be appreciated that one or both spacer flanges can be connected to other regions of the leg of the connection arrangement. The spacer flanges are illustrated as being connected to the leg of the connection arrangement at about a 90° angle; however, it can be appreciated that one or both spacer flanges can be connected to the leg of the connection arrangement at other angles. The height of the spacer flanges is non-limiting; however, the height is generally selected so that a tubular insulation, not shown, can be inserted about pipe P. Generally, the height of spacer flanges360,370is at least about 0.25, and typically about 0.5-2 inches; however, other heights can be used. As best illustrated inFIG. 7, the spacer flanges360,370face one another when secured to a building structure and are spaced in generally the same location along the longitudinal axis of the spacer and clamp300. As can be appreciated, the spacer flanges do not have to be positioned directly opposite from one another when the spacer and clamp300is connected to the building structure B, thus the spacer and clamp300can be designed such that the legs are off-set from one another when the spacer and clamp300is connected to the building structure B. The spacer flanges include at least one connection opening2262,2272that is designed to enable a connector2250to connect together the spacer flanges. The connector2250is illustrated as being a threaded bolt; however, other types of connectors can be used (e.g., screw, bolt and nut, rivet, etc.). As can be appreciated, the spacer flanges can be connected together by one or more connection arrangements (e.g., adhesive, weld, solder, clamp, lock tab, screw, bolt and nut, rivet, etc.).

The pipe holding section310is illustrated as having a tubular housing320that has a generally circular cross-sectional shape as best illustrated inFIG. 7. As can be appreciated, the cross-sectional shape of housing320can be a shape other than circular. The housing320forms an inner cavity330at least when the spacer and clamp300is connected to the building structure B as illustrated inFIG. 7. The inner cavity330is illustrated as having a generally circular cross-sectional shape to accommodate standard shaped pipe P; however, it will be appreciated that the cross-sectional shape of cavity330can be other than circular. The inner surface of housing320can include one or more gripping elements, not shown; however, this is not required. The housing320is illustrated as being formed of a single piece of material. Generally the material is a flexible material to enable the spacer legs to be separated from one another while not damaging or breaking the housing so as to enable the pipe to be inserted into the cavity of the housing. As can be appreciated, the housing320can be formed of two components and connected together by a rotating, pivoting or flexible hinge, not shown. If some type of hinge is used, the hinge is generally located at the opposite side of the housing from the location where the spacer legs are connected to the housing; however, this is not required.

The assembly of an insulated pipe P using the spacer and clamp300will now be briefly described. Pipe holding section310is formed of a bendable and/or flexible material that enables a pipe P to be inserted into the cavity330of housing320. The legs410,412are pulled back so that pipe P can be slipped into cavity330. As can be appreciated, one of the legs can be secured to building structure B and then one leg can be pulled back to slip the pipe into the cavity330. Once the pipe is positioned in cavity330, one or both legs are then secured to building structure B by screws450as illustrated inFIG. 7. The legs may have to be bent together to snugly fit the pipe in the cavity330; however, this may not be required. Gripping members, when used, hold the pipe in position in the cavity330of housing320so as to inhibit or prevent vibration, rotation and/or other types of movement of the pipe in the cavity. Once the legs are secured to the building structure via screws450through connection openings414,416, insulation, not shown, can be placed about the pipe and spacer and clamp300. The insulation, when used, is typically a foam material that includes a longitudinal slit. When installing the insulation, the edges of the slit are pulled apart thereby enabling the insulation to be fit about the pipe. Since the pipe is mounted at a spaced distance from the building structure, the insulation can be easily and conveniently placed about the complete outer perimeter of the pipe. The insulation can also be placed completely or nearly completely about housing320. The spacer flanges360,370are designed to extend generally parallel to the inside faces or slit of the insulation. As such, the insulation conforms to the housing and the slit faces engage the space flanges thereby allowing for easy and convenient installation of the insulation about the spacer and clamp300. When the faces of the slit include an adhesive or an adhesive is applied to the slit face, the slit faces can be then secured to the spacer flanges360,370; however, this is not required. As can be appreciated, the insulation can be inserted about the pipe and spacer and clamp prior to being secured to the building structure.

Referring now toFIGS. 9 and 10, another improved spacer and clamp500is disclosed. The improved spacer and clamp500includes three basic components, namely 1) a pipe holding section510, 2) a spacer section550, and 3) a connection arrangement600. The materials used to form the improved spacer and clamp500are non-limiting. Generally, the improved spacer and clamp500is made of a plastic and/or metal material. The pipe holding section510, the spacer section550and the connection arrangement600can be formed of the same or different materials. The improved spacer and clamp500can be formed from a single piece of material or be formed from multiple pieces of materials that can be secured and/or connected together. The size of the improved spacer and clamp500is also non-limiting. The improved spacer and clamp500can be made in a variety of ways such as, but not limited to, molding, stamping, cutting, casting, etc.

As illustrated inFIG. 9, the connection arrangement600is secured to a building structure B such as a wood column or beam in a wall, floor or ceiling. The connection arrangement includes two legs610,612. Each of the legs610,612include a connection opening614,616, respectively that is designed to receive a screw650or some other connection element (e.g, nail, bolt, rivet, etc.) to secure each leg to building structure B. As can be appreciated, one or both legs do not require a preformed connection opening. In such an arrangement, an installer could drive a nail, screw, etc. through the legs to form a connection opening during the connection of the legs to a structure. As can also be appreciated, one or both legs can include marks or pop-out regions that facilitate is locating a region on the legs to insert the connection element and/or to form the connection opening in the legs. The connection openings in both of the legs are formed at some non-normal angle relative to the plane of the base of the legs. Generally, the angle of the connection openings relative to the plane of the base of the legs is about 45°-89°, and typically about 70°-90°; however, it will be appreciated that other angles can be used. The angle of the two connection openings relative to the plane of the base legs can be the same or different. It can be appreciated that one of the connection openings can be generally normal to the base of a leg and the other connection opening being non-normal to the base of a leg. The thickness of the legs610,612are illustrated as being tapered. As can be appreciated, tapering of one or both legs is not required. As can also be appreciated, one leg can be tapered and one leg not be tapered. The angle of taper for each leg can be the same or different. Generally the angle of taper is about 1°-45°, and typically about 5°-15°; however, it will be appreciated that other taper angles can be used. As can be appreciated, the legs can be connected by other or additional arrangements (e.g., adhesive, clamp, etc). As can also be appreciated, the legs can include more than one connection opening for use with more than one connector. The base of the legs610,612can include a gripping arrangement, not shown.

The spacer section550is formed by two spacer flanges560,570. The spacer flanges are illustrated as having the same width and height; however, this is not required. The spacer flanges are illustrated as having a uniform thickness along the height of the spacer flanges; however, this is not required. Each of the spacer flanges are connected to a leg of the connection arrangement. The spacer flanges are illustrated as being connected to the end of a leg of the connection arrangement; however, it can be appreciated that one or both spacer flanges can be connected to other regions of the leg of the connection arrangement. The spacer flanges are illustrated as being connected to the leg of the connection arrangement at about a 90° angle; however, it can be appreciated that one or both spacer flanges can be connected to the leg of the connection arrangement at other angles. The height or amount of standoff of the spacer flanges is non-limiting; however, the height is generally selected so that a tubular insulation, not shown, can be inserted about pipe P. Generally, the height of spacer flanges560,570is at least about 0.25, and typically about 0.5-2 inches; however, other heights can be used. As best illustrated inFIG. 9, the spacer flanges560,570are spaced apart from one another along the longitudinal axis. The spacer flanges are also illustrated as being positioned edge to edge from one another when the spacer and clamp500is connected to the building structure B as illustrated inFIG. 9. As can be appreciated, the spacer flanges do not have to be positioned edge to edge from one another when the spacer and clamp500is connected to the building structure B, thus the spacer and clamp500can be designed such that a space or gap exists between the spacer flanges when the spacer and clamp500is connected to the building structure B. Although not shown, the spacer flange arrangement disclosed inFIGS. 9 and 10can be modified to more resemble the spacer flange orientation disclosed inFIG. 7as described above. In such a spacer flange orientation, the spacer flanges560,570would face one another when secured to a building structure and are spaced in generally the same location along the longitudinal axis of the spacer and clamp500. As can be appreciated, the spacer flanges do not have to be positioned directly opposite from one another when the spacer and clamp500is connected to the building structure B, thus the spacer and clamp500can be designed such that the legs are off-set from one another when the spacer and clamp500is connected to the building structure B.

The pipe holding section510is illustrated as having a tubular housing520that has a generally circular cross-sectional shape as best illustrated inFIGS. 9 and 10. As can be appreciated, the cross-sectional shape of housing520can be a shape other than circular. The housing520forms an inner cavity530at least when the spacer and clamp500is connected to the building structure B as illustrated inFIG. 9. The inner cavity530is illustrated as having a generally circular cross-sectional shape to accommodate standard shaped pipe P; however, it will be appreciated that the cross-sectional shape of cavity530can be other than circular. The inner surface of housing520can include one or more gripping elements, not shown; however, this is not required. The housing520is illustrated as being formed of a single piece of material. Generally the material is a flexible material to enable the spacer legs to be separated from one another while not damaging or breaking the housing so as to enable the pipe to be inserted into the cavity of the housing. As can be appreciated, the housing520can be formed of two components and connected together by a rotating, pivoting or flexible hinge, not shown. If some type of hinge is used, the hinge is generally located at the opposite side of the housing from the location where the spacer legs are connected to the housing; however, this is not required.

The assembly of an insulated pipe P using the spacer and clamp500will now be briefly described. Pipe holding section510is formed of a bendable and/or flexible material that enables a pipe P to be inserted into the cavity530of housing520. The legs610,612are pulled back so that pipe P can be slipped into cavity530. As can be appreciated, one of the legs can be secured to building structure B and then one leg can be pulled back to slip the pipe into the cavity530. Once the pipe is positioned in cavity530, one or both legs are then secured to building structure B by screws650as illustrated inFIG. 9. The legs may have to be bent together to snugly fit the pipe in the cavity530; however, this may not be required. Gripping members, when used, hold the pipe in position in the cavity530of housing520so as to inhibit or prevent vibration, rotation and/or other types of movement of the pipe in the cavity. The angled connection openings are angled toward the spacer flanges thereby facilitating in causing the housing520to tighten about the pipe as the screws are inserted into the building structure; however, this is not required. Once the legs are secured to the building structure via screws650through connection openings614,616, insulation, not shown, can be placed about the pipe and spacer and clamp500. The insulation, when used, is typically a foam material that includes a longitudinal slit. When installing the insulation, the edges of the slit are pulled apart thereby enabling the insulation to be fit about the pipe. Since the pipe is mounted at a spaced distance from the building structure, the insulation can be easily and convenient place about the complete outer perimeter of the pipe. The insulation can also be placed completely or nearly completely about housing520. The spacer flanges560,570are designed to extend generally parallel to the inside faces or slit of the insulation. As such, the insulation conforms to the housing and the slit faces engage the space flanges thereby allowing for easy and convenient installation of the insulation about the spacer and clamp500. When the faces of the slit include an adhesive or an adhesive is applied to the slit face, the slit faces can be then secured to the spacer flanges560,570; however, this is not required. As can be appreciated, the insulation can be inserted about the pipe and spacer and clamp prior to being secured to the building structure.

Referring now toFIGS. 11 and 12, another improved spacer and clamp700is disclosed. The improved spacer and clamp700includes three basic components, namely 1) a pipe holding section710, 2) a spacer section750, and 3) a connection arrangement800. The materials used to form the improved spacer and clamp700are non-limiting. Generally the improved spacer and clamp700is made of a plastic and/or metal material. The pipe holding section710, the spacer section750and the connection arrangement800can be formed of the same or different materials. The improved spacer and clamp700can be formed from a single piece of material or be formed from multiple pieces of material that can be secured and/or connected together. The size of the improved spacer and clamp700is also non-limiting. The improved spacer and clamp700can be made in a variety of ways such as, but not limited to, molding, stamping, cutting, casting, etc.

As illustrated inFIG. 11, the connection arrangement800is secured to a building structure B such as a wood column or beam in a wall, floor or ceiling. The connection arrangement includes two legs810,812. Each of the legs810,812include a connection opening814,816, respectively that is designed to receive a screw850or some other connection element (e.g, nail, bolt, rivet, etc.) to secure each leg to building structure B. As can be appreciated, one or both legs do not require a preformed connection opening. In such an arrangement, an installer could drive a nail, screw, etc. through the legs to form a connection opening during the connection of the legs to a structure. As can also be appreciated, one or both legs can include marks or pop-out regions that facilitate in locating a region on the legs to insert the connection element and/or to form the connection opening in the legs. The connection opening in at least one of the legs is formed at some non-normal angle relative to the plane of the base of the legs. Generally the angle of the connection opening relative to the plane of the base of the legs is about 45°-89°, and typically about 70°-90°; however, it will be appreciated that other angles can be used. The angle of both of the connection openings, when both connection openings are angled, relative to the plane of the base, legs can be the same or different. It can be appreciated that one of the connection openings can be generally normal to the base of a leg and the other connection opening being non-normal to the base of a leg as illustrated by connection opening816inFIG. 12. The thickness of the leg810is illustrated as being tapered, and the thickness of leg812as being generally constant. As can be appreciated, tapering of one of the legs is not required. As can also be appreciated, both legs can be tapered. The angle of taper for leg810is about 1°-45°, and typically about 5°-15°; however, it will be appreciated that other taper angles can be used. As can be appreciated, the legs can be connected by other or additional arrangements (e.g., adhesive, clamp, etc). As can also be appreciated, the legs can include more than one connection opening for use with more than one connector. The base of the legs810,812can include a gripping arrangement, not shown. The end of leg812includes a lip820that is designed to facilitate in maintaining leg810in position on top of leg812so that connection openings814and816are generally aligned with one another as illustrated inFIG. 12. Lip820can be designed such that leg810snaps into position on leg810; however, this is not required.

The spacer section750is formed by two spacer flanges760,770. The spacer flanges are illustrated as having the same width; however, this is not required. The spacer flanges are illustrated as having a uniform thickness along the height of the spacer flanges; however, this is not required. The height of the two spacer flanges are different. Each of the spacer flanges are connected to a leg of the connection arrangement. The spacer flanges are illustrated as being connected to the end of a leg of the connection arrangement; however, it can be appreciated that one or both spacer flanges can be connected to other regions of the leg of the connection arrangement. The spacer flanges are illustrated as being connected to the leg of the connection arrangement at about a 90° angle; however, it can be appreciated that one or both spacer flanges can be connected to the leg of the connection arrangement at other angles. The height of the spacer flanges is non-limiting; however, the height is generally selected so that a tubular insulation, not shown, can be inserted about pipe P. Generally, the height of spacer flanges760,770is at least about 0.25, and typically about 0.5-2 inches; however, other heights can be used. As best illustrated inFIG. 11, the spacer flanges760,770face one another when secured to a building structure and are spaced in generally the same location along the longitudinal axis of the spacer and clamp700. As can be appreciated, the spacer flanges do not have to be positioned directly opposite from one another when the spacer and clamp700is connected to the building structure B, thus the spacer and clamp700can be designed such that the legs are off-set from one another when the spacer and clamp700is connected to the building structure B. As can be appreciated, the spacer flanges can be connected together by one or more connection arrangement (e.g., screw, bolt and nut, rivet, adhesive, weld, solder, clamp, lock tab, etc).

The pipe holding section710is illustrated as having a tubular housing720that has a generally circular cross-sectional shape as best illustrated inFIGS. 11 and 12. As can be appreciated, the cross-sectional shape of housing720can be a shape other than circular. The housing720forms an inner cavity730at least when the spacer and clamp700is connected to the building structure B as illustrated inFIG. 11. The inner cavity730is illustrated as having a generally circular cross-sectional shape to accommodate standard shaped pipe P; however, it will be appreciated that the cross-sectional shape of cavity730can be other than circular. The inner surface of housing720can include one or more gripping elements, not shown; however, this is not required. The housing720is illustrated as being formed of a single piece of material. Generally the material is a flexible material to enable the spacer legs to be separated from one another while not damaging or breaking the housing so as to enable the pipe to be inserted into the cavity of the housing. As can be appreciated, the housing720can be formed of two components and connected together by a rotating, pivoting or flexible hinge, not shown. If some type of hinge is used, the hinge is generally located at the opposite side of the housing from the location where the spacer legs are connected to the housing; however, this is not required.

The assembly of an insulated pipe P using the spacer and clamp700will now be briefly described. Pipe holding section710is formed of a bendable and/or flexible material that enables a pipe P to be inserted into the cavity730of housing720. The legs810,812are pulled back so that pipe P can be slipped into cavity730. Once the pipe is positioned in cavity730, leg810is snapped over leg812and held in position by lip820. In this position, the two connection openings814,816are aligned with one another. The legs are then secured to building structure B by screw850as illustrated inFIG. 11. Gripping members, when used, hold the pipe in position in the cavity730of housing720so as to inhibit or prevent vibration, rotation and/or other types of movement of the pipe in the cavity. The angled connection opening814is angled toward the spacer flanges thereby facilitating in causing the housing720to tighten about the pipe and maintaining leg810on leg812as the screw is inserted into the building structure; however, this is not required. Once the legs are secured to the building structure via screw850through connection openings814,816, insulation, not shown, can be placed about the pipe and spacer and clamp700. The insulation, when used, is typically a foam material that includes a longitudinal slit. When installing the insulation, the edges of the slit are pulled apart thereby enabling the insulation to be fitted about the pipe. Since the pipe is mounted at a spaced distance from the building structure, the insulation can be easily and conveniently placed about the complete outer perimeter of the pipe. The insulation can also be placed completely or nearly completely about housing720. The spacer flanges760,770are designed to extend generally parallel to the inside faces of the slit of the insulation. As such, the insulation conforms to the housing and the slit faces engage the space flanges thereby allowing for easy and convenient installation of the insulation about the spacer and clamp700. When the faces of the slit include an adhesive or an adhesive is applied to the slit face, the slit faces can be then secured to the spacer flanges760,770; however, this is not required. As can be appreciated, the insulation can be inserted about the pipe and spacer and clamp prior to being secured to the building structure.

Referring now toFIGS. 13-15, another improved spacer and clamp900is disclosed. The improved spacer and clamp900includes three basic components, namely 1) a pipe holding section910, 2) a spacer section950, and 3) a connection arrangement1000. The materials used to form the improved spacer and clamp900are non-limiting. Generally the improved spacer and clamp900is made of a plastic and/or metal material. The pipe holding section910, the spacer section950and the connection arrangement1000can be formed of the same or different materials. The improved spacer and clamp900can be formed from a single piece of material or be formed from multiple pieces of materials that can be secured and/or connected together. The size of the improved spacer and clamp900is also non-limiting. The improved spacer and clamp900can be made in a variety of ways such as, but not limited to, molding, stamping, cutting, casting, etc.

As illustrated inFIG. 13, the connection arrangement1000is secured to a building structure B such as a wood column or beam in a wall, floor or ceiling. The connection arrangement includes one leg1010; however, it can be appreciated that the connection arrangement can include more than one leg. Leg1010includes a connection opening1012that is designed to receive a screw1050or some other connection element (e.g, nail, bolt, rivet, etc.) to secure each leg to building structure B. As can be appreciated, the leg does not require a preformed connection opening. In such an arrangement, an installer could drive a nail, screw, etc. through the leg to form a connection opening during the connection of the leg to a structure. As can also be appreciated, the leg can include a mark or pop-out region that facilitates in locating a region on the leg to insert the connection element and/or to form the connection opening in the leg. The connection opening in the leg is formed at some non-normal angle relative to the plane of the base of the leg. Generally, the angle of the connection opening relative to the plane of the base of the leg is about 45°-89°, and typically about 70°-90°; however, it will be appreciated that other angles can be used. It can be appreciated that the connection opening can be generally normal to the base of a leg. The thickness of the leg1010is illustrated as being tapered. As can be appreciated, tapering of the leg is not required. The angle of taper for leg1010is about 1°-45°, and typically about 5°-15°; however, it will be appreciated that other taper angles can be used. As can be appreciated, the legs leg can be connected by other or additional arrangements (e.g., adhesive, clamp, etc). As can also be appreciated, the kg can include more than one connection opening for use with more than one connector. The base of1010can include a gripping arrangement, not shown.

The spacer section950is formed by two spacer flanges960,970. The spacer flanges are illustrated as having the same width; however, this is not required. The spacer flanges are illustrated as having a uniform thickness along the height of the spacer flanges; however, this is not required. The height of the two spacer flanges are different. Spacer flange970is connected to leg1010of the connection arrangement. The spacer flange is illustrated as being connected to the end of a leg of the connection arrangement; however, it can be appreciated that the spacer flange can be connected to other regions of the leg of the connection arrangement. The spacer flange is illustrated as being connected to the leg of the connection arrangement at about a 90° angle; however, it can be appreciated that the spacer flange can be connected to the leg of the connection arrangement at other angles. The height of the spacer flanges is non-limiting; however, the height is generally selected so that a tubular insulation, not shown, can be inserted about pipe P. Generally, the height of spacer flanges960,970is at least about 0.25, and typically about 0.5-2 inches; however, other heights can be used. As best illustrated inFIGS. 11-13, the spacer flanges960,970face one another when secured to a building structure and are spaced in generally the same location along the longitudinal axis of the spacer and clamp900. As can be appreciated, the spacer flanges do not have to be positioned directly opposite from another when the spacer and clamp900is connected to the building structure B, thus the spacer and clamp900can be designed such that the legs are off-set from one another when the spacer and clamp900are connected to the building structure B. As best illustrated inFIG. 15, spacer flange960includes a lock tab980and spacer flange970includes a lock opening990. The lock tab is designed to move between an unlocked and locked position as illustrated inFIG. 15. As can be appreciated, the spacer flanges can include other or additional arrangements to connect together the spacer flanges (e.g., screw, bolt and nut, rivet, adhesive, weld, solder, clamp, etc). As can also be appreciated, the spacer flanges can include more than one connection opening for use with more than one connector.

The pipe holding section910is illustrated as having a tubular housing920that has a generally circular cross-sectional shape as best illustrated inFIGS. 13 and 14. As can be appreciated, the cross-sectional shape of housing920can be a shape other than circular. The housing920forms an inner cavity930at least when the spacer and clamp900is connected to the building structure B as illustrated inFIG. 13. The inner cavity930is illustrated as having a generally circular cross-sectional shape to accommodate standard shaped pipe P; however, it will be appreciated that the cross-sectional shape of cavity930can be other than circular. The inner surface of housing920can include one or more gripping elements, not shown; however, this is not required. The housing920is illustrated as being formed of a single piece of material. Generally the material is a flexible material to enable the spacer legs to be separated from one another while not damaging or breaking the housing so as to enable the pipe to be inserted into the cavity of the housing. As can be appreciated, the housing920can be formed of two components and connected together by a rotating, pivoting or flexible hinge, not shown. If some type of hinge is used, the hinge is generally located at the opposite side of the housing from the location where the spacer legs are connected to the housing; however, this is not required.

The assembly of an insulated pipe P using the spacer and clamp900will now be briefly described. Pipe holding section910is formed of a bendable and/or flexible material that enables a pipe P to be inserted into the cavity930of housing920. The spacer flanges960,970are pulled back so that pipe P can be slipped into cavity930. Once the pipe is positioned in cavity930, the spacer flanges are pushed together and the lock tab980is pushed into lock opening990to cause the spacer flanges to be locked together. Leg1010can be secured to building structure B by screw1050prior to or after the lock tab980is pushed into lock opening990as illustrated inFIGS. 13 and 15. Gripping members, when used, hold the pipe in position in the cavity930of housing920so as to inhibit or prevent vibration, rotation and/or other types of movement of the pipe in the cavity. Once the leg is secured to the building structure via screw1050through connection openings1012, insulation, not shown, can be placed about the pipe and spacer and clamp900. The insulation, when used, is typically a foam material that includes a longitudinal slit. When installing the insulation, the edges of the slit are pulled apart thereby enabling the insulation to be fit about the pipe. Since the pipe is mounted at a spaced distance from the building structure, the insulation can be easily and conveniently placed about the complete outer perimeter of the pipe. The insulation can also be placed completely or nearly completely about housing920. The spacer flanges960,970are designed to extend generally parallel to the inside faces of the slit of the insulation. As such, the insulation conforms to the housing and the slit faces engage the space flanges thereby allowing for easy and convenient installation of the insulation about the spacer and clamp900. When the faces of the slit include an adhesive or an adhesive is applied to the slit face, the slit faces can be then secured to the spacer flanges960,970; however, this is not required. As can be appreciated, the insulation can be inserted about the pipe and spacer and clamp prior to being secured to the building structure.

Referring now toFIGS. 16-18, another improved spacer and clamp1100is disclosed. The improved spacer and clamp1100includes three basic components, namely 1) a pipe holding section1110, 2) a spacer section1150, and 3) a connection arrangement1200. The materials used to form the improved spacer and clamp1100are non-limiting. Generally the improved spacer and clamp1100is made of a plastic and/or metal material. The pipe holding section1110, the spacer section1150and the connection arrangement1200can be formed of the same or different materials. The improved spacer and clamp1100can be formed from a single piece of material or be formed from multiple pieces of materials that can be secured and/or connected together. The size of the improved spacer and clamp1100is also non-limiting. The improved spacer and clamp1100can be made in a variety of ways such as, but not limited to, molding, stamping, cutting, casting, etc.

As illustrated inFIG. 16, the connection arrangement1200is secured to a building structure B such as a wood column or beam in a wall, floor or ceiling. The connection arrangement includes one leg1210; however, it can be appreciated that the connection arrangement can include more than one leg. Leg1210includes a connection opening1212that is designed to receive a screw1250or some other connection element (e.g, nail, bolt, rivet, etc.) to secure each leg to building structure B. As can be appreciated, the leg does not require a preformed connection opening. In such an arrangement, an installer could drive a nail, screw, etc. through the leg to form a connection opening during the connection of the leg to a structure. As can also be appreciated, the leg can include a mark or pop-out region that facilitates in locating a region on the leg to insert the connection element and/or to form the connection opening in the leg. The connection opening in the leg is formed at some non-normal angle relative to the plane of the base of the leg. Generally the angle of the connection opening relative to the plane of the base of the leg is about 45°-89°, and typically about 70°-90°; however, it will be appreciated that other angles can be used. It can be appreciated that the connection opening can be generally normal to the base of a leg. The thickness of the leg1210is illustrated as being tapered. As can be appreciated, tapering of the leg is not required. The angle of taper for leg1210is about 1°-45°, and typically about 5°-15°; however, it will be appreciated that other taper angles can be used. As can be appreciated, the leg can be connected by other or additional arrangements (e.g., adhesive, clamp, etc). As can also be appreciated, the leg can include more than one connection opening for use with more than one connector. The base of leg1210can include a gripping arrangement, not shown. The back end of leg1210includes a lock recess1214to engage with a spacer flange as will be described in more detail below.

The spacer section1150is formed by two spacer flanges1160,1170. The spacer flanges are illustrated as having the same width; however, this is not required. The spacer flanges are illustrated as having a uniform thickness along the height of the spacer flanges; however, this is not required. The height of the two spacer flanges are different. Spacer flange1170is connected to leg1210of the connection arrangement. The spacer flange is illustrated as being connected to the end of a leg of the connection arrangement; however, it can be appreciated that the spacer flange can be connected to other regions of the leg of the connection arrangement. The spacer flange is illustrated as being connected to the leg of the connection arrangement at about a 90° angle; however, it can be appreciated that the spacer flange can be connected to the leg of the connection arrangement at other angles. The height of the spacer flanges is non-limiting; however, the height is generally selected so that a tubular insulation, not shown, can be inserted about pipe P. Generally, the height of spacer flanges1160,1170is at least about 0.25, and typically about 0.5-2 inches; however, other heights can be used. As best illustrated inFIGS. 16 and 18, the spacer flanges1160,1170face one another when secured to a building structure and are spaced in generally the same location along the longitudinal axis of the spacer and clamp1100. As can be appreciated, the spacer flanges do not have to be positioned directly opposite from one another when the spacer and clamp1100is connected to the building structure B, thus the spacer and clamp1100can be designed such that the legs are off-set from one another when the spacer and clamp1100is connected to the building structure B. As best illustrated inFIG. 15, spacer flange1160includes a lock lip1180and spacer flange1170includes an opening1190. Opening1190is sized and designed to enable spacer flange1160to pass through the opening to enable lip1180to engage lock recess1214on leg1210thereby causing the spacer flanges to be locked together as illustrated inFIGS. 17 and 18. As can be appreciated, the spacer flanges can include other or additional configurations to connect the spacer flanges together (e.g., screw, bolt and nut, rivet, adhesive, weld, solder, clamp, etc). As can also be appreciated, the spacer flanges can include more than one connection arrangement to secure together the spacer flanges.

The pipe holding section1110is illustrated as having a tubular housing1120that has a generally circular cross-sectional shape as best illustrated inFIGS. 16 and 18. As can be appreciated, the cross-sectional shape of housing1120can be a shape other than circular. The housing1120forms an inner cavity1130at least when the spacer and clamp1100is connected to the building structure B as illustrated inFIG. 16. The inner cavity1130is illustrated as having a generally circular cross-sectional shape to accommodate standard shaped pipe P; however, it will be appreciated that the cross-sectional shape of cavity1130can be other than circular. The inner surface of housing1120can include one or more gripping elements, not shown; however, this is not required. The housing1120is illustrated as being formed of a single piece of material. Generally the material is a flexible material to enable the spacer legs to be separated from one another while not damaging or breaking the housing so as to enable the pipe to be inserted into the cavity of the housing. As can be appreciated, the housing1120can be formed of two components and connected together by a rotating, pivoting, or flexible hinge, not shown. If some type of hinge is used, the hinge is generally located at the opposite side of the housing from the location where the spacer legs are connected to the housing; however, this is not required.

The assembly of an insulated pipe P using the spacer and clamp1100will now be briefly described. Pipe holding section1110is formed of a bendable and/or flexible material that enables a pipe P to be inserted into the cavity1130of housing1120. The spacer flanges1160,1170are pulled back so that pipe P can be slipped into cavity1130. Once the pipe is positioned in cavity1130, the spacer flanges are pushed together and the spacer flange1160is connected to leg1210. Leg1210can be secured to building structure B by screw1250prior to or after the spacer flange is connected to leg1210as illustrated inFIGS. 16 and 18. Gripping members, when used, hold the pipe in position in the cavity1130of housing1120so as to inhibit or prevent vibration, rotation and/or other types of movement of the pipe in the cavity. Once the leg is secured to the building structure via screw1250through connection openings1212, insulation, not shown, can be placed about the pipe and spacer and clamp1100. The insulation, when used, is typically a foam material that includes a longitudinal slit. When installing the insulation, the edges of the slit are pulled apart thereby enabling the insulation to be fit about the pipe. Since the pipe is mounted at a spaced distance from the building structure, the insulation can be easily and conveniently placed about the complete outer perimeter of the pipe. The insulation can also be placed completely or nearly completely about housing1120. The spacer flanges1160,1170are designed to extend generally parallel to the inside faces of the slit of the insulation. As such, the insulation conforms to the housing and the slit faces engage the space flanges thereby allowing for easy and convenient installation of the insulation about the spacer and clamp1100. When the faces of the slit include an adhesive or an adhesive is applied to the slit face, the slit faces can be then secured to the spacer flanges1160,1170; however, this is not required. As can be appreciated, the insulation can be inserted about the pipe and spacer and clamp prior to being secured to the building structure.

Referring now toFIGS. 19-21, another improved spacer and clamp1300is disclosed. The improved spacer and clamp1300includes three basic components, namely 1) a pipe holding section1310, 2) a spacer section1350, and 3) a connection arrangement1400. The materials used to form the improved spacer and clamp1300are non-limiting. Generally the improved spacer and clamp1300is made of a plastic and/or metal material. The pipe holding section1310, the spacer section1350and the connection arrangement1400can be formed of the same or different materials. The improved spacer and clamp1300can be formed from a single piece of material or be formed from multiple pieces of materials that can be secured and/or connected together. The size of the improved spacer and clamp1300is also non-limiting. The improved spacer and clamp1300can be made in a variety of ways such as, but not limited to, molding, stamping, cutting, casting, etc.

As illustrated inFIG. 19, the connection arrangement1400is secured to a building structure B such as a wood column or beam in a wall, floor or ceiling. The connection arrangement includes one leg1410; however, it can be appreciated that the connection arrangement can include more than one leg. Leg1410includes a connection opening1412that is designed to receive a screw1450or some other connection element (e.g, nail, bolt, rivet, etc.) to secure each leg to building structure B. As can be appreciated, the leg does not require a preformed connection opening. In such an arrangement, an installer could drive a nail, screw, etc. through the leg to form a connection opening during the connection of the leg to a structure. As can also be appreciated, the leg can include a mark or pop-out region that facilitates in locating a region on the leg to insert the connection element and/or to form the connection opening in the leg. The connection opening in the leg is formed at some non-normal angle relative to the plane of the base of the leg. Generally the angle of the connection opening relative to the plane of the base of the leg is about 45°-89°, and typically about 70°-90°; however, it will be appreciated that other angles can be used. It can be appreciated that the connection opening can be generally normal to the base of a leg. The thickness of the leg1410is illustrated as being tapered. As can be appreciated, tapering of the leg is not required. The angle of taper for leg1410is about 1°-45°, and typically about 5°-15°; however, it will be appreciated that other taper angles can be used. As can be appreciated, the legs kg can be connected by other or additional arrangements (e.g., adhesive, clamp, etc). As can also be appreciated, the legs can include more than one connection opening for use with more than one connector. The base of leg1410can include a gripping arrangement, not shown. The back end of leg1410includes a lock recess1414to engage with a spacer flange as will be described in more detail below.

The spacer section1350is formed by three spacer flanges1360,1370,1380. The spacer flanges are illustrated as having the same width; however, this is not required. The spacer flanges are illustrated as having a uniform thickness along the height of the spacer flanges; however, this is not required. The height of the three spacer flanges are different. Spacer flange1370is connected to leg1410of the connection arrangement. The spacer flange1370is illustrated as being connected to the end of the leg of the connection arrangement; however, it can be appreciated that the spacer flange can be connected to other regions of the leg of the connection arrangement. The spacer flange is illustrated as being connected to the leg of the connection arrangement at about a 90° angle; however, it can be appreciated that the spacer flange can be connected to the leg of the connection arrangement at other angles. The height of the spacer flanges is non-limiting; however, the height is generally selected so that a tubular insulation, not shown, can be inserted about pipe P. Generally, the height of spacer flanges1360,1370,1380is at least about 0.25, and typically about 0.5-2 inches; however, other heights can be used. As best illustrated inFIGS. 19 and 21, the spacer flanges1360,1370face one another when secured to a building structure and are spaced in generally the same location along the longitudinal axis of the spacer and clamp1300. As can be appreciated, the spacer flanges do not have to be positioned directly opposite from another when the spacer and clamp1300is connected to the building structure B, thus the spacer and clamp1300can be designed such that a legs are off-set from one another when the spacer and clamp1300is connected to the building structure B. Spacer flange1380is off-set from spacer flanges1360,1370when the spacer and clamp1300is secured to building structure B as illustrated inFIG. 19. As best illustrated inFIG. 21, spacer flange1380includes a lock lip1390. As can be appreciated, the spacer flanges include other or additional arrangements to connect the spacer flanges together (e.g., screw, bolt and nut, rivet, adhesive, weld, solder, clamp, etc). As can also be appreciated, the spacer flanges can include more than one connection arrangement to connect the spacer flanges together.

The pipe holding section1310is illustrated as having a tubular housing1320that has a generally circular cross-sectional shape as best illustrated inFIGS. 19 and 21. As can be appreciated, the cross-sectional shape of housing1320can be a shape other than circular. The housing1320forms an inner cavity1330at least when the spacer and clamp1300is connected to the building structure B as illustrated inFIG. 19. The inner cavity1330is illustrated as having a generally circular cross-sectional shape to accommodate standard shaped pipe P; however, it will be appreciated that the cross-sectional shape of cavity1330can be other than circular. The inner surface of housing1320can include one or more gripping elements, not shown; however, this is not required. The housing1320is illustrated as being formed of a single piece of material. Generally the material is a flexible material to enable the spacer legs to be separated from one another while not damaging or breaking the housing so as to enable the pipe to be inserted into the cavity of the housing. As can be appreciated, the housing1320can be formed of two components and connected together by a rotating, pivoting or flexible hinge, not shown. If some type of hinge is used, the hinge is generally located at the opposite side of the housing from the location where the spacer legs connected to the housing; however, this is not required.

The assembly of an insulated pipe P using the spacer and clamp1300will now be briefly described. Pipe holding section1310is formed of a bendable and/or flexible material that enables a pipe P to be inserted into the cavity1330of housing1320. The spacer flanges1360,1370,1380are pulled back so that pipe P can be slipped into cavity1330. Once the pipe is positioned in cavity1330, the spacer flanges are pushed together and the spacer flange1380is connected to leg1410. Leg1410can be secured to building structure B by screw1450prior to or after the spacer flange1380is connected to leg1410as illustrated inFIGS. 19 and 21. Gripping members, when use, hold the pipe in position in the cavity1330of housing1320so as to inhibit or prevent vibration, rotation and/or other types of movement of the pipe in the cavity. Once the leg is secured to the building structure via screw1450through connection openings1412insulation, not shown, can be placed about the pipe and spacer and clamp1300. The insulation, when used, is typically a foam material that includes a longitudinal slit. When installing the insulation, the edges of the slit are pulled apart thereby enabling the insulation to be fit about the pipe. Since the pipe is mounted at a spaced distance from the building structure, the insulation can be easily and conveniently placed about the complete outer perimeter of the pipe. The insulation can also be placed completely or nearly completely about housing1320. The spacer flanges1360,1370,1380are designed to extend generally parallel to the inside faces of the slit of the insulation. As such, the insulation conforms to the housing and the slit faces engage the space flanges thereby allowing for easy and convenient installation of the insulation about the spacer and clamp1300. When the faces of the slit include an adhesive or an adhesive is applied to the slit face, the slit faces can be then secured to the spacer flanges1360,1370,1380; however, this is not required. As can be appreciated, the insulation can be inserted about the pipe and spacer and clamp prior to being secured to the building structure.

Referring now toFIGS. 22-25, another improved spacer and clamp1500is disclosed. The improved spacer and clamp1500includes three basic components, namely 1) a pipe holding section1510, 2) a spacer section1550, and 3) a connection arrangement1600. The materials used to form the improved spacer and clamp1500are non-limiting. Generally the improved spacer and clamp1500is made of a plastic and/or metal material. The pipe holding section1510, the spacer section1550and the connection arrangement1600can be formed of the same or different materials. The improved spacer and clamp1500can be formed from a single piece of material or be formed from multiple pieces of materials that can be secured and/or connected together. The size of the improved spacer and clamp1500is also non-limiting. The improved spacer and clamp1500can be made in a variety of ways such as, but not limited to, molding, stamping, cutting, casting, etc.

As illustrated inFIGS. 22,24and25, the connection arrangement1600is secured to a building structure B such as a wood column or beam in a wall, floor or ceiling. The connection arrangement includes two legs1610,1620; however, it can be appreciated that the connection arrangement can include one leg or more than two legs. Legs1610,1620include connection opening1612,1622that are designed to receive a screw1650or some other connection element (e.g, nail, bolt, rivet, etc.) to secure each leg to building structure B. As can be appreciated, the legs do not require a preformed connection opening. In such an arrangement, an installer could drive a nail, screw, etc. through the legs to form a connection opening during the connection of the legs to a structure. As can also be appreciated, one or more legs can include a mark or pop-out region that facilitates in locating a region on the leg to insert the connection element and/or to form the connection opening in the legs. The connection opening in the legs is formed at a generally normal angle relative to the plane of the base of the leg; however, this is not required. The thickness of legs1610,1620are illustrated as being the same and constant; however, this is not required. As can be appreciated, the legs can be connected by other or additional arrangements (e.g., adhesive, clamp, etc). As can also be appreciated, the legs can include more than one connection opening for use with more than one connector. The base of leg1610can include a gripping arrangement, not shown. The legs are illustrated as having a generally circular shape; however, it can be appreciated that other shapes can be used.

The spacer section1550is formed by two spacer flanges1560,1570. The spacer flanges are illustrated as having generally the same shape; however, this is not required. The spacer flanges are illustrated as having a uniform thickness along the height of the spacer flanges; however, this is not required. The height of the spacer flanges is illustrated as being the same; however, this is not required. Spacer flange1560is connected to leg1610of the connection arrangement. The spacer flange1560is illustrated as being connected to the bottom side of leg1610of the connection arrangement; however, it can be appreciated that the spacer flange can be connected to other regions of the leg of the connection arrangement. The spacer flange is illustrated as being connected to the leg of the connection arrangement at about a 90° angle relative to the face of the leg; however, it can be appreciated that the spacer flange can be connected to the leg of the connection arrangement at other angles. Likewise, spacer flange1570is illustrated as being connected to the bottom side of leg1620of the connection arrangement; however, it can be appreciated that the spacer flange can be connected to other regions of the leg of the connection arrangement. The spacer flange1570is illustrated as being connected to leg1620of the connection arrangement at about a 90° angle relative to the face of the leg; however, it can be appreciated that the spacer flange can be connected to the leg of the connection arrangement at other angles. The height of the spacer flanges is non-limiting; however, the height is generally selected so that a tubular insulation, not shown, can be inserted about pipe P. Generally, the height of spacer flanges1560,1570is at least about 0.25, and typically about 0.5-2 inches; however, other heights can be used. As best illustrated inFIGS. 22,24, and25, the spacer flanges1560,1570face one another when secured to a building structure and are spaced in generally the same location along the longitudinal axis of the spacer and clamp1500. As can be appreciated, the spacer flanges do not have to be positioned directly opposite from another when the spacer and clamp1500is connected to the building structure B, thus the spacer and clamp1500can be designed such that the legs are off-set from one another when the spacer and clamp1500is connected to the building structure B. The spacer flanges are designed to have a receding portion1562,1572. The receding portions on the spacer flanges makes it easier to cause the spacer flanges to be separated from one another when inserting the pipe in the pipe holding section1510. As can be appreciated, one or both of the spacer flanges does not require a receding portion and/or a different shaped receding portion is used. As illustrated inFIG. 22, legs1610,1620are spaced from outer edges of the spacer flanges1560,1570to create a front and back landing1566,1576. The height of the two landings is generally the same; however, this is not required. The landings can be used to orient the top of the spacer flanges and the legs at the bottom portion of a beam joist, etc.; however, this is not required. As can be appreciated, the legs can be oriented on the spacer flange such that the spacer flanges only include one landing. As can also be appreciated, the legs can be oriented on the spacer flange such that the spacer flanges do not include any landings. As can be appreciated, the spacer flanges can be connected together by one or more connection arrangements (e.g., screw, bolt and nut, rivet, adhesive, weld, solder, clamp, lock tab, etc).

The pipe holding section1510is illustrated as having a tubular housing1520that has a generally circular cross-sectional shape as best illustrated inFIGS. 22 and 24. As can be appreciated, the cross-sectional shape of housing1520can be a shape other than circular. The housing1520forms an inner cavity1530at least when the spacer and clamp1500is connected to the building structure B as illustrated inFIG. 22. The inner cavity1530is illustrated as having a generally circular cross-sectional shape to accommodate standard shaped pipe P; however, it will be appreciated that the cross-sectional shape of cavity1530can be other than circular. The inner surface of housing1520can include one or more gripping elements, not shown; however, this is not required. The housing1520is illustrated as being formed of a single piece of material. Generally the material is a flexible material to enable the spacer legs to be separated from one another while not damaging or breaking the housing so as to enable the pipe to be inserted into the cavity of the housing. As can be appreciated, the housing1520can be formed of two components and connected together by a rotating, pivoting or flexible hinge, not shown. If some type of hinge is used, the hinge is generally located at the opposite side of the housing from the location where the spacer legs are connected to the housing; however, this is not required.

The assembly of an insulated pipe P using the spacer and clamp1500will now be briefly described. Pipe holding section1510is formed of a bendable and/or flexible material that enables a pipe P to be inserted into the cavity1530of housing1520. The spacer flanges1560,1570are pushed back by pushing on the recessed portions on each spacer flange so that pipe P can be slipped into cavity1530. Once the pipe is positioned in cavity1530, the spacer flanges are pushed together until the connection openings on each leg are generally aligned with one another. Legs1610,1620can be secured to building structure B by inserting screw1650through the connection openings in each of the legs and into building structure B. The insertion of screw1650through the two connection openings locks the legs and spacer flanges together. Gripping members, when used, hold the pipe in position in the cavity1530of housing1520so as to inhibit or prevent vibration, rotation and/or other types of movement of the pipe in the cavity. Once the legs are secured to the building structure via screw1650through connection openings1612,1622, insulation, not shown, can be placed about the pipe and spacer and clamp1500. The insulation, when used, is typically a foam material that includes a longitudinal slit. When installing the insulation, the edges of the slit are pulled apart thereby enabling the insulation to be fitted about the pipe. Since the pipe is mounted at a spaced distance from the building structure, the insulation can be easily and conveniently placed about the complete outer perimeter of the pipe. The insulation can also be placed completely or nearly completely about housing1520. The spacer flanges1560,1570are designed to extend generally parallel to the inside faces of the slit of the insulation. As such, the insulation conforms to the housing and the slit faces engage the space flanges thereby allowing for easy and convenient installation of the insulation about the spacer and clamp1500. When the faces of the slit include an adhesive or an adhesive is applied to the slit face, the slit faces can be then secured to the spacer flanges1560,1570; however, this is not required. As can be appreciated, the insulation can be inserted about the pipe and spacer and clamp prior to being secured to the building structure.

Referring now toFIGS. 26-27, another improved spacer and clamp1700is disclosed. The improved spacer and clamp1700includes three basic components, namely 1) a pipe holding section1710, 2) a spacer section1750, and 3) a connection arrangement1800. The materials used to form the improved spacer and clamp1700are non-limiting. Generally the improved spacer and clamp1700is made of a plastic and/or metal material. The pipe holding section1710, the spacer section1750and the connection arrangement1800can be formed of the same or different materials. The improved spacer and clamp1700can be formed from a single piece of material or be formed from multiple pieces of materials that can be secured and/or connected together. The size of the improved spacer and clamp1700is also non-limiting. The improved spacer and clamp1700can be made in a variety of ways such as, but not limited to, molding, stamping, cutting, casting, etc.

As illustrated inFIG. 26, the connection arrangement1800is secured to a building structure B such as a wood column or beam in a wall, floor or ceiling. The connection arrangement includes two legs1810,1820; however, it can be appreciated that the connection arrangement can include one leg or more than two legs. Leg1810includes a connection opening1812that is designed to receive a screw1850or some other connection element (e.g, nail, bolt, rivet, etc.) to secure each leg to building structure B. Leg1820includes a leg slot1822that is designed to slide over and receive a screw1850or some other connection element. As can be appreciated, leg1810does not require a preformed connection opening. In such an arrangement, an installer could drive a nail, screw, etc. through the leg to form a connection opening during the connection of the leg to a structure. As can also be appreciated, the leg can include a mark or pop-out region that facilitates in locating a region on the leg to insert the connection element and/or to form the connection opening in the leg. The connection opening1812in leg1810and the leg slot in1822of leg1820is formed at a generally normal angle relative to the plane of the base of the leg; however, this is not required. The thickness of legs1810,1820are illustrated as being the same and constant; however, this is not required. As can be appreciated, the legs can be connected by other or additional arrangements (e.g., adhesive, clamp, lock tab, etc). As can also be appreciated, the legs can include more than one connection opening for use with more than one connector. The base of leg1810can include a gripping arrangement, not shown. The legs are illustrated as having a generally circular shape; however, it can be appreciated that other shapes can be used.

The spacer section1750is formed by two spacer flanges1760,1770. The spacer flanges are illustrated as having generally the same shape; however, this is not required. The spacer flanges are illustrated as having a uniform thickness along the height of the spacer flanges; however, this is not required. The height of the spacer flanges is illustrated as being the same; however, this is not required. Spacer flange1760is connected to leg1810of the connection arrangement. The spacer flange1760is illustrated as being connected to the bottom side of leg1810of the connection arrangement; however, it can be appreciated that the spacer flange can be connected to other regions of the leg of the connection arrangement. The spacer flange is illustrated as being connected to the leg of the connection arrangement at about a 90° angle relative to the face of the leg; however, it can be appreciated that the spacer flange can be connected to the leg of the connection arrangement at other angles. Likewise, spacer flange1770is illustrated as being connected to the bottom side of leg1820of the connection arrangement; however, it can be appreciated that the spacer flange can be connected to other regions of the leg of the connection arrangement. The spacer flange1770is illustrated as being connected to leg1820of the connection arrangement at about a 90° angle relative to the face of the leg; however, it can be appreciated that the spacer flange can be connected to the leg of the connection arrangement at other angles. The height of the spacer flanges is non-limiting; however, the height is generally selected so that a tubular insulation, not shown, can be inserted about pipe P. Generally, the height of spacer flanges1760,1770is at least about 0.25, and typically about 0.5-2 inches; however, other heights can be used. As best illustrated inFIG. 26, the spacer flanges1760,1770face one another when secured to a building structure and are spaced in generally the same location along the longitudinal axis of the spacer and clamp1700. As can be appreciated, the spacer flanges do not have to be positioned directly opposite from another when the spacer and clamp1700is connected to the building structure B, thus the spacer and clamp1700can be designed such that the legs are off-set from one another when the spacer and clamp1700is connected to the building structure B. The spacer flanges are designed to have a receding portion1762,1772. The receding portions on the spacer flanges makes it easier to cause the spacer flanges to be separated from one another when inserting the pipe in the pipe holding section1710. As can be appreciated, one or both of the spacer flanges does not require a receding portion and/or a different shaped receding portion is used. As can be appreciated, the spacer flanges can include one or more connection arrangements to secure the spacer flanges together (e.g., screw, bolt and nut, rivet, adhesive, weld, solder, clamp, lock tab, etc).

The pipe holding section1710is illustrated as having a tubular housing1720that has a generally circular cross-sectional shape as best illustrated inFIG. 26. As can be appreciated, the cross-sectional shape of housing1720can be a shape other than circular. The housing1720forms an inner cavity1730at least when the spacer and clamp1700is connected to the building structure B as illustrated inFIG. 26. The inner cavity1730is illustrated as having a generally circular cross-sectional shape to accommodate standard shaped pipe P; however, it will be appreciated that the cross-sectional shape of cavity1730can be other than circular. The inner surface of housing1720can include one or more gripping elements, not shown; however, this is not required. The housing1720is illustrated as being formed of a single piece of material. Generally the material is a flexible material to enable the spacer legs to be separated from one another while not damaging or breaking the housing so as to enable the pipe to be inserted into the cavity of the housing. As can be appreciated, the housing1720can be formed of two components and connected together by a rotating, pivoting or flexible hinge, not shown. If some type of hinge is used, the hinge is generally located at the opposite side of the housing from the location where the spacer legs are connected to the housing; however, this is not required.

The assembly of an insulated pipe P using the spacer and clamp1700will now be briefly described. Pipe holding section1710is formed of a bendable and/or flexible material that enables a pipe P to be inserted into the cavity1730of housing1720. The spacer flanges1760,1770are pushed back by pushing on the recessed portions on each spacer flange so that pipe P can be slipped into cavity1730. Once the pipe is positioned in cavity1730, the spacer flanges are pushed together until the connection opening and leg slot on the legs are generally aligned with one another. Legs1810,1820can be secured to building structure B by inserting screw1850through the connection opening1812in leg1810and into building structure B. The screw is not fully inserted into leg1810so that the leg slot in leg1820can be slipped over screw1850. Gripping members, when used, hold the pipe in position in the cavity1730of housing1720so as to inhibit or prevent vibration, rotation and/or other types of movement of the pipe in the cavity. Once the legs are secured to the building structure via screw1750through connection opening1812and leg slot1822, insulation, not shown, can be placed about the pipe and spacer and clamp1700. The insulation, when used, is typically a foam material that includes a longitudinal slit. When installing the insulation, the edges of the slit are pulled apart thereby enabling the insulation to be fit about the pipe. Since the pipe is mounted at a spaced distance from the building structure, the insulation can be easily and conveniently placed about the complete outer perimeter of the pipe. The insulation can also be placed completely or nearly completely about housing1720. The spacer flanges1760,1770are designed to extend generally parallel to the inside faces of the slit of the insulation. As such, the insulation conforms to the housing and the slit faces engage the space flanges thereby allowing for easy and convenient installation of the insulation about the spacer and clamp1700. When the faces of the slit include an adhesive or an adhesive is applied to the slit face, the slit faces can be then secured to the spacer flanges1760,1770; however, this is not required. As illustrated inFIG. 26, legs1810,1820are spaced from the outer edges of the spacer flanges1760,1770to create a front and back landing1764,1774. The height of the two landings is generally the same; however, this is not required. The landings can be used to orient the top of the spacer flanges and the legs at the bottom portion of a beam, joist, etc.; however, this is not required. As can be appreciated, the legs can be oriented on the spacer flange such that the spacer flanges only include one landing. As can also be appreciated, the legs can be oriented on the spacer flange such that the spacer flanges do not include any landings. As can be appreciated, the insulation can be inserted about the pipe and spacer and clamp prior to being secured to the building structure.

Referring now toFIGS. 28-30, another improved spacer and clamp1900is disclosed. The improved spacer and clamp1900includes three basic components, namely 1) a pipe holding section1910, 2) a spacer section1950, and 3) a connection arrangement2000. The materials used to form the improved spacer and clamp1900are non-limiting. Generally the improved spacer and clamp1900is made of a plastic and/or metal material. The pipe holding section1910, the spacer section1950and the connection arrangement2000can be formed of the same or different materials. The improved spacer and clamp1900can be formed from a single piece of material or be formed from multiple pieces of materials that can be secured and/or connected together. The size of the improved spacer and clamp1900is also non-limiting. The improved spacer and clamp1900can be made in a variety of ways such as, but not limited to, molding, stamping, cutting, casting, etc.

As illustrated inFIG. 28, the connection arrangement2000is secured to a building structure B such as a wood column or beam in a wall, floor or ceiling. The connection arrangement includes two legs2010,2020; however, it can be appreciated that the connection arrangement can include one leg or more than two legs. Legs2010,2020include a connection opening2012,2022that is designed to receive a screw2050or some other connection element (e.g, nail, bolt, rivet, etc.) to secure each leg to building structure B. As can be appreciated, legs2010,2020do not require a preformed connection opening. In such an arrangement, an installer could drive a nail, screw, etc. through the legs to form a connection opening during the connection of the legs to a structure. As can also be appreciated, the legs can include a mark or pop-out region that facilitates in locating a region on the legs to insert the connection element and/or to form the connection opening in the legs. The connection opening2012in leg2010and the connection opening2022in leg2020are formed at a generally normal angle relative to the plane of the base of the legs; however, this is not required. The thickness of legs2010,2020are illustrated as being the same and constant; however, this is not required. As can be appreciated, the legs can be connected by other or additional arrangements (e.g., adhesive, clamp, etc). As can also be appreciated, the legs can include more than one connection opening for use with more than one connector. The base of legs2010,2020can include a gripping arrangement, not shown. The legs are illustrated as having a generally circular shape; however, it can be appreciated that other shapes can be used. Legs2010,2020are oriented on the spacer and clamp1900such that the connection legs face away from one another; however, this is not required.

The spacer section2000is formed by two spacer flanges1960,1970. The spacer flanges are illustrated as having generally the same shape; however, this is not required. The spacer flanges are illustrated as having a uniform thickness along the height of the spacer flanges; however, this is not required. The height of the spacer flanges is illustrated as being the same; however, this is not required. Spacer flange1960is connected to leg2010of the connection arrangement. The spacer flange1960is illustrated as being connected to the bottom side of leg2010of the connection arrangement; however, it can be appreciated that the spacer flange can be connected to other regions of the leg of the connection arrangement. The spacer flange is illustrated as being connected to the leg of the connection arrangement at about a 90° angle relative to the face of the leg; however, it can be appreciated that the spacer flange can be connected to the leg of the connection arrangement at other angles. Likewise, spacer flange1970is illustrated as being connected to the bottom side of leg2020of the connection arrangement; however, it can be appreciated that the spacer flange can be connected to other regions of the leg of the connection arrangement. The spacer flange1970is illustrated as being connected to leg2020of the connection arrangement at about a 90° angle relative to the face of the leg; however, it can be appreciated that the spacer flange can be connected to the leg of the connection arrangement at other angles. The height of the spacer flanges is non-limiting; however, the height is generally selected so that a tubular insulation, not shown, can be inserted about pipe P. Generally, the height of spacer flanges1960,1970is at least about 0.25, and typically about 0.5-2 inches; however, other heights can be used. As best illustrated inFIGS. 28 and 29, the spacer flanges1960,1970face one another when secured to a building structure and are spaced in generally the same location along the longitudinal axis of the spacer and clamp1900. As can be appreciated, the spacer flanges do not have to be positioned directly opposite from another when the spacer and clamp1900is connected to the building structure B, thus the spacer and clamp1900can be designed such that the legs are off-set from one another when the spacer and clamp1900is connected to the building structure B. The spacer flanges can include a receding portion, not shown, that is designed to make it easier to cause the spacer flanges to be separated from one another when inserting the pipe in the pipe holding section1910; however, this is not required. As illustrated inFIG. 30, legs2010,2020are spaced from the outer edges of the spacer flanges1960,1970to create a front and back landing1962,1964on spacer flange1960and a front and back landing1972,1974on spacer flange1970. The height of the two landings is generally the same; however, this is not required. The landings can be used to orient the top of the spacer flanges and the legs at the bottom portion of a beam, joist, etc.; however, this is not required. As can be appreciated, the legs can be oriented on the spacer flange such that the spacer flanges only include one landing. As can also be appreciated, the legs can be oriented on the spacer flange such that the spacer flanges do not include any landings. As can be appreciated, the spacer flanges can include one or more connection arrangements to secure the spacer flanges together (e.g., screw, bolt and nut, rivet, adhesive, weld, solder, clamp, lock tab, etc).

The pipe holding section1910is illustrated as having a tubular housing1920that has a generally circular cross-sectional shape as best illustrated inFIGS. 28 and 29. As can be appreciated, the cross-sectional shape of housing1920can be a shape other than circular. The housing1920forms an inner cavity1930at least when the spacer and clamp1900is connected to the building structure B as illustrated inFIGS. 28-30. The inner cavity1930is illustrated as having a generally circular cross-sectional shape to accommodate standard shaped pipe P; however, it will be appreciated that the cross-sectional shape of cavity1930can be other than circular. The inner surface of housing1920can include one or more gripping elements, not shown; however, this is not required. The housing1920is illustrated as being formed of a single piece of material. Generally the material is a flexible material to enable the spacer legs to be separated from one another while not damaging or breaking the housing so as to enable the pipe to be inserted into the cavity of the housing. As can be appreciated, the housing1920can be formed of two components and connected together by a rotating, pivoting or flexible hinge, not shown. If some type of hinge is used, the hinge is generally located at the opposite side of the housing from the location where the spacer legs are connected to the housing; however, this is not required.

The assembly of an insulated pipe P using the spacer and clamp1900will now be briefly described. Pipe holding section1910is formed of a bendable and/or flexible material that enables a pipe P to be inserted into the cavity1930of housing1920. The spacer flanges1960,1970are pushed back by pulling back and separating legs2010,2020so that pipe P can be slipped into cavity1930. Once the pipe is positioned in cavity1930, the spacer flanges and legs are pushed together. Legs2010,2020can be secured to building structure B by inserting screw2050through the connection openings2012,2022in the legs and into building structure B. As can be appreciated, pipe P can be inserted into cavity1930prior to the legs being secured to building structure B. Alternatively, either leg2010or2020can be secured to a building structure B, and then the pipe can be inserted into cavity1930, and thereafter the other leg can be secured to building structure B. Gripping members, when used, hold the pipe in position in the cavity1930of housing1920so as to inhibit or prevent vibration, rotation and/or other types of movement of the pipe in the cavity. Once the legs are secured to the building structure via screw2050through connection openings2012,2020, insulation, not shown, can be placed about the pipe and spacer and clamp1900. The insulation, when used, is typically a foam material that includes a longitudinal slit. When installing the insulation, the edges of the slit are pulled apart thereby enabling the insulation to be fitted about the pipe. Since the pipe is mounted at a spaced distance from the building structure, the insulation can be easily and conveniently placed about the complete outer perimeter of the pipe. The insulation can also be placed completely or nearly completely about housing1920. The spacer flanges1960,1970are designed to extend generally parallel to the inside faces of the slit of the insulation. As such, the insulation conforms to the housing and the slit faces engage the space flanges thereby allowing for easy and convenient installation of the insulation about the spacer and clamp1900. When the faces of the slit include an adhesive or an adhesive is applied to the slit face, the slit faces can be then secured to the spacer flanges1960,1970; however, this is not required. As can be appreciated, the insulation can be inserted about the pipe and spacer and clamp prior to being secured to the building structure.

Referring now toFIGS. 31-34, another improved spacer and clamp2100is disclosed. The improved spacer and clamp2100includes three basic components, namely 1) a pipe holding section2110, 2) a spacer section2150, and 3) a connection arrangement2200. The materials used to form the improved spacer and clamp2100are non-limiting. Generally the improved spacer and clamp2100is made of a plastic and/or metal material. The pipe holding section2110, the spacer section2150and the connection arrangement2200can be formed of the same or different materials. The improved spacer and clamp2100can be formed from a single piece of material or be formed from multiple pieces of materials that can be secured and/or connected together. The size of the improved spacer and clamp2100is also non-limiting. The improved spacer and clamp2100can be made in a variety of ways such as, but not limited to, molding, stamping, cutting, casting, etc.

As illustrated inFIG. 31, the connection arrangement2200is secured to a building structure such as a unistrut system US. Unistrut systems are well known in the art, thus will not be described in detail herein. The connection arrangement includes two legs2210,2220; however, it can be appreciated that the connection arrangement can include one leg or more than two legs. Legs2210,2220each include two connection slot2212,2214,2222,2224that are designed to fit on and be hung from a unistrut system. The two connection slots in each of the connection legs forms a generally T-shaped structure on the top portion of each connection leg; however, it will be appreciated that the top portion of the connection legs can have other shapes. It can be appreciated that other methods of mounting to the steel channel can readily be adapted to the improved stand-off pipe clamps. Some that are already in use for other holding devices include various spring loaded mounting nuts which allow a device to be fixed to the channel with a mounting bolt. There are also mounting plates which work with a twist and a cam. Many of the previously illustrated versions of the improved stand-off pipe clamp could be readily adapted to this application. The connection slots in each of the connection legs enables the connection legs to be hung on and to slide along the unistrut system so as to position the improved spacer and clamp2100in the desired position on the unistrut system. The inside surface of each connection leg includes a spacer tab2216,2226that is designed to cause the connection legs to angle away from one another. The angle formed between the two connection legs is about 1°-60°, and typically about 10°-40°; however, it will be appreciated that other angles can be used. As can also be appreciated, only one of the connection legs can be designed to include a spacer tab or neither connection can include a spacer tab. As can also be appreciated, other arrangements can be used to cause the connection legs to angle apart from one another. The one or more spacer tabs, when used, also facilitate in maintaining an angle of separation between the connection legs. The thickness of legs2210,2220are illustrated as being the same and constant; however, this is not required.

The spacer section2150is formed by two spacer flanges2260,2270. The spacer flanges are illustrated as having generally the same shape; however, this is not required. The spacer flanges are illustrated as having a uniform thickness along the height of the spacer flanges; however, this is not required. The height of the spacer flanges is illustrated as being the same; however, this is not required. Spacer flange2160is connected to leg2210of the connection arrangement. The spacer flange2260is illustrated as being connected to the bottom side of leg2210of the connection arrangement; however, it can be appreciated that the spacer flange can be connected to other regions of the leg of the connection arrangement. Likewise, spacer flange2270is illustrated as being connected to the bottom side of leg2220of the connection arrangement; however, it can be appreciated that the spacer flange can be connected to other regions of the leg of the connection arrangement. The height of the spacer flanges is non-limiting; however, the height is generally selected so that a tubular insulation, not shown, can be inserted about pipe P. Generally, the height of spacer flanges2260,2270is at least about 0.25, and typically about 0.5-2 inches; however, other heights can be used. As best illustrated inFIGS. 31,32and33, the spacer flanges2260,2270face one another when secured to the unistrut system US and are spaced in generally the same location along the longitudinal axis of the spacer and clamp2100. As can be appreciated, the spacer flanges do not have to be positioned directly opposite from one another when the spacer and clamp2100is connected to the unistrut system US, thus the spacer and clamp2100can be designed such that the legs are off-set from one another when the spacer and clamp2100is connected to the unistrut system US. The spacer flanges include at least one connection opening2262,2272that is designed to enable a connector2250to connect together the spacer flanges. The connector2250is illustrate as being a threaded bolt; however, other types of connectors can be used (e.g., screw, bolt and nut, rivet, etc.). As can be appreciated, the spacer flanges can be connected by other or additional arrangements (e.g., adhesive, weld, solder, clamp, lock tab, etc). As can also be appreciated, the spacer flanges can include more than one connection opening for use with more than one connector.

The pipe holding section2110is illustrated as having a generally tubular housing2120that has a generally circular cross-sectional shape as best illustrated inFIG. 31-33. As can be appreciated, the cross-sectional shape of housing2120can be a shape other than circular. The housing2120forms an inner cavity2130at least when the spacer and clamp2100is connected to the unistrut system US as illustrated inFIGS. 31-33. The inner cavity2130is illustrated as having a generally circular cross-sectional shape to accommodate a standard shaped pipe P; however, it will be appreciated that the cross-sectional shape of cavity2130can be other than circular. The inner surface of housing2120can include one or more gripping elements, not shown; however, this is not required. The housing2120is illustrated as being formed of two sections2122,2124; however, it can be appreciated that housing2120can be formed of a single piece of material. Generally the material that forms the two sections of the housing are relatively rigid materials to inhibit or prevent bend of the two section2122,2124. When the housing is formed of a single piece of material, one or more portions of the housing is generally formed of a flexible material so as to enable the spacer legs to be separated from one another while not damaging or breaking the housing so as to enable the pipe to be inserted into the cavity of the housing. As can be appreciated, the two sections of housing2120can be connected together by a rotating, pivoting or flexible hinge, not shown. If some type of hinge is used, the hinge is generally located at the opposite side of the housing from the location where the spacer legs connected to the housing; however, this is not required.

The assembly of an insulated pipe P using the spacer and clamp2100will now be briefly described. The sections2122,2144of the pipe holding section2110are separated from one another and then fitted about pipe P. Thereafter, connector2250is threaded through openings2262,2272of spacer flanges2260,2270so as to secure the spacer flanges together and to secure the pipe in cavity2130of the pipe holding section. The pipe can then be hung on a Unistrut system by inserting the connection slots2212,2214,2222,2224of legs2210,2220into the railing of the Unistrut system. Once the legs are hung on the Unistrut system, insulation I can be placed about the pipe and spacer and clamp2100. The insulation, when used, is typically a foam material that includes a longitudinal slit. When installing the insulation, the edges of the slit are pulled apart thereby enabling the insulation to be fitted about the pipe. Since the pipe is mounted at a spaced distance from the Unistrut system, the insulation can be easily and conveniently placed about the complete outer perimeter of the pipe. The insulation can also be placed completely or nearly completely about housing2120. The spacer flanges2260,2270are designed to extend generally parallel to the inside faces of the slit of the insulation. As such, the insulation conforms to the housing and the slit faces engage the space flanges thereby allowing for easy and convenient installation of the insulation about the spacer and clamp2100. When the faces of the slit include an adhesive or an adhesive is applied to the slit face, the slit faces can then be secured to the spacer flanges2260,2270; however, this is not required. As can be appreciated, the insulation can be inserted about the pipe and spacer and clamp2100prior to being hung on the Unistrut system.

Referring now toFIGS. 35-41, there is illustrated a novel prefabricated tubular insulation that is designed to be used on pipe elbows and joints. Referring toFIG. 41, the tubular insulation2300includes an outer shell2310and encircles a circular cavity2320. The outer shell can be formed of any type of insulating material. Generally, the outer shell is formed of a flexible material such as, but not limited to, a foam-type material. The thickness of the outer shell is generally uniform; however, this is not required. Cavity2320is sized to fit about a certain outer diameter pipe, not shown. As such, the size of cavity2320will partially depend on the size of pipe to be insulated. The outer shell includes a slit2330that travels along the longitudinal axis of the insulation2300. As can be appreciated, the outer shell can include more than one slit. One or both of the inner surfaces of the slit can include an adhesive material; however, this is not required.

Referring now toFIG. 35-40, various preformed sections of insulation2300are illustrated. As illustrated inFIGS. 35 and 36, insulation2300is formed so as to conveniently fit about a 90° elbow joint in a pipe P. As shown inFIG. 35, a slot2340is cut or formed in insulation2300. The slot forms a generally 90° angle; however the angle can be about 70-110°. The depth of the slot is such that it does not completely penetrate through the complete cross-section of the insulation. As shown inFIG. 35, the slot penetrates through one side of the insulation, through a first wall of cavity2320, and stops at the opposite second wall side of the cavity such that generally one outer shell thickness is maintained. As can be appreciated, the slot can be designed to penetrate at least 50% into cavity2320and no more than 75% into the outer shell wall that is located adjacent to the opposite wall side of the cavity. Alternatively, the slot formed in the insulation is limited to cutting or being formed in no more than 90% of the outer perimeter of the insulation, and typically no more than about 80% of the outer perimeter of the insulation. The slot formed in the insulation enables the insulation to fit about a 90° elbow in a pipe as illustrated inFIG. 36. The widest angle of the slot is typically located on the slit2330; however, this is not required.

Referring now toFIGS. 37 and 38, insulation2300is formed so as to conveniently fit about a 45° elbow joint in a pipe P. As shown inFIG. 37, a slot2340is cut or formed in insulation2300. The slot forms a generally 45° angle; however the angle can be about 30-60°. The depth of the slot is such that it does not completely penetrate through the complete cross-section of the insulation. As shown inFIG. 37, the slot penetrates through one side of the insulation, through a first wall of cavity2320, and stops at the opposite second wall side of the cavity such that generally one outer shell thickness is maintained. As can be appreciated, the slot can be designed to penetrate at least 50% into cavity2320and no more than 75% into the outer shell wall that is located adjacent to the opposite wall side of the cavity. Alternatively, the slot formed in the insulation is limited to cutting or being formed in no more than 90% of the outer perimeter of the insulation, and typically no more than about 80% of the outer perimeter of the insulation. The slot formed in the insulation enables the insulation to fit about a 45° elbow in a pipe as illustrated inFIG. 38. The widest angle of the slot is typically located on the slit2330; however, this is not required.

Referring now toFIGS. 39 and 40, two pieces of insulation2300,2400are formed so as to conveniently fit about a T-connection in two pipes P. As shown inFIG. 39, a slot2340is cut or formed in insulation2300. The slot forms a generally 90° angle; however the angle can be about 70-110°. The depth of the slot is such that it does not completely penetrate through the complete cross-section of the insulation. As shown inFIG. 39, the slot penetrates through one side of the insulation, through a first wall of cavity2320, and stops prior to reaching the opposite second wall side of the cavity. As can be appreciated, the slot can be designed to penetrate a distance of about 30-100% into cavity2320and no more than 75% into the outer shell wall that is located adjacent to the opposite wall side of the cavity. Alternatively, the slot formed in the insulation is limited to cutting or being formed in no more than 90% of the outer perimeter of the insulation, and typically no more than about 80% of the outer perimeter of the insulation. The slot formed in the insulation enables a portion of insulation2400to be received in the slot as illustrated inFIG. 40. The widest angle of the slot is typically located on the slit2330; however, this is not required. Insulation2400includes a shaved end portion2430that is designed to fit into slot2340of insulation2300. The shaved portion is configured so as to snugly fit into slot2340. When slot2340has a cut angle of about 90°, the shaped end portion of insulation2400has an angle from face to face of the shaved portion of about 240°-300°.

It will thus be seen that the objects set forth above, among those made apparent from the preceding description, are efficiently attained, and since certain changes may be made in the constructions set forth without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, it is intended that all matter contained in the above description and shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. The invention has been described with reference to preferred and alternate embodiments. Modifications and alterations will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading and understanding the detailed discussion of the invention provided herein. This invention is intended to include all such modifications and alterations insofar as they come within the scope of the present invention. It is also to be understood that the following claims are intended to cover all of the generic and specific features of the invention herein described and all statements of the scope of the invention, which, as a matter of language, might be said to fall therebetween.