Patent Publication Number: US-2022216679-A1

Title: Support System for Electrical Boxes

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application claims priority to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/529,426, filed Aug. 1, 2019, titled “Support System for Electrical Boxes,” which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/713,339, filed Aug. 1, 2018, titled “Support System for Electrical Boxes” and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/797,083, filed Jan. 25, 2019, titled, “Support System for Electrical Boxes,” all of which are incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     In many applications, it may be useful to support electrical boxes and other components. For example, according to some construction standards, electrical boxes may be required to be supported at particular locations, such as at particular distances from certain other structures or components. In addition, some construction standards may require electrical boxes to be supported at particular heights above a floor or at particular distances from certain other structures or components. 
     SUMMARY 
     Some embodiments of the invention provide a box support system for supporting one or more electrical boxes. The box support system can include a box support that includes a first rail, a second rail spaced from the first rail to define a receiving area for an electrical box, and a box-support mounting interface on one or more of the first rail or the second rail. A floor stand with a floor-stand mounting interface that can be manually secured to the box-support mounting interface to secure the floor stand to the box support can also be included. One of the box-support mounting interface or the floor-stand mounting interface can be a first mounting interface that includes: a first channel defined by a first connecting wall that extends between a first side wall and a second side wall, the first connecting wall opposite a first open side of the first channel; and a first insertion slot that extends through the first connecting wall. The other of the box-support mounting interface or the floor-stand mounting interface can be a second mounting interface that includes: a second channel defined by a second connecting wall that extends between a third side wall and a fourth side wall, the second connecting wall opposite a second open side of the second channel, the second channel being sized to nest within the first channel with the first and second open sides of the first and second channels opposite the first and second connecting walls; a first interface arm that extends through the first insertion slot when the second channel is nested within the first channel; and a second interface arm that engages an outside surface of an outside of the first channel when the second channel is nested within the first channel, with the first and second interface arms in an interleaved engagement with the first side wall of the first channel. 
     Some embodiments of the invention provide a mounting system for connecting a first support and a second support for electrical components. The mounting system can include a first mounting interface that is integrally formed into the first support and can include: a first channel that includes a first side wall, a second side wall, and a first connecting wall that connects the first and second side walls, the first connecting wall opposite a first open side of the first channel; and a first insertion slot opposite the first open side that can extend from inside of the first channel to outside of the first channel. The mounting system can also include a second mounting interface that is integrally formed into the second support and can include: a second channel that includes a third side wall, a fourth side wall, and a second connecting wall that connects the third and fourth side walls, the second channel sized to be nested within the first channel; a first interface arm that is spaced laterally from the second channel and can extend through the first insertion slot when the second channel is nested within the first channel; and a second interface arm that can be spaced laterally from the second channel and can engage an outside surface of the first channel when the second channel is nested within the first channel. 
     Some embodiments of the invention provide a method of securing a first support for electrical components to a second support for electrical components. The method can include securing a first mounting interface of the first support that includes a first channel to a second mounting interface of the second support that includes a second channel. The securing step can include nesting the second channel within the first channel. The first channel can be formed from a first side wall, a second side wall, and a first connecting wall that connects the first and second side walls, and the second channel can be formed from a third side wall, a fourth side wall, and a second connecting wall that connects the third and fourth side wall. The securing step can further include inserting a first interface arm that extends from the second mounting interface and is laterally spaced from the second channel into a first insertion slot in the first connecting wall of the first mounting interface. The method can further include engaging a second interface arm extending from the second mounting interface and laterally spaced from the first interface arm with an outside surface of the second side wall of the first channel. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of embodiments of the invention: 
         FIG. 1  is a front elevation partial view of a box support system according to an embodiment of the invention, including a box support, electrical boxes, and a set of support attachments; 
         FIG. 2  is a front elevation view of the box support of  FIG. 1 , without electrical boxes or support attachments; 
         FIG. 3  is a front elevation view of a box support system according to another embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 4  is a rear elevation partial view of the box support of  FIG. 3 , with adjustable mud rings installed; 
         FIG. 5  is a front elevation partial view of the box support of  FIG. 3 , with mud rings installed; 
         FIG. 6  is a front elevation view of a box support system arranged according to an embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 7  is a top sectional view of the box support of  FIG. 6 ; 
         FIG. 8A  is a detailed top sectional partial view of the box support, as shown in  FIG. 6 ; 
         FIG. 8B  is a detailed top sectional partial view of a box support according to another embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 9  is a side sectional view of the box support of  FIG. 6 ; 
         FIG. 10A  is a detailed side sectional partial view of a mounting interface of the box support, as shown in  FIG. 9 ; 
         FIG. 10B  is a detailed side sectional partial view of a mounting interface of a box support, according to another embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 11  is a front elevation view of a mounting interface of the box support of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 12  is a top plan view of the mounting interface of  FIG. 11 ; 
         FIG. 13  is a front elevation view of a mounting interface of the support attachment of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 14  is a side elevation view of the mounting interface of  FIG. 13 ; 
         FIG. 15  is a top plan view of the mounting interface of  FIG. 13 ; 
         FIG. 16  is a bottom plan view of the mounting interface of  FIG. 13 ; 
         FIG. 17  is a side sectional partial view of the box support system of  FIG. 1 , with the mounting interfaces of  FIGS. 11 and 13  secured together after assembly; 
         FIG. 18  is a front elevation partial view of the box support system of  FIG. 1 , including the mounting interfaces as shown in  FIG. 17 ; 
         FIG. 19  is a top plan partial view of an embodiment of a mounting interface in the form of a sheet metal blank prior to stamping operations; 
         FIG. 20  is a side elevation view of a mounting interface according to another embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 21  is a front elevation view of a mounting interface according to another embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 22  is a bottom plan view of the mounting interface of  FIG. 21 ; 
         FIG. 23  is a front elevation view of a mounting interface according to another embodiment of the invention; and 
         FIG. 24  is a bottom plan view of the mounting interface of  FIG. 23 . 
         FIG. 25  is a front elevation view of a box support system according to another embodiment of the invention, including a box support, a floor stand, a 5″ box mud ring, a 4″ box mud ring, and a set of cable supports; 
         FIG. 26  is a front elevation view of a box support system according to another embodiment of the invention, including a box support, a floor stand, two 5″ box mud rings, and a set of cable supports; 
         FIG. 27  is a front elevation view of the box support and other components of  FIG. 25 ; 
         FIG. 28  is a front elevation view of the box support and other components of  FIG. 26 ; 
         FIG. 29  is a front elevation view of the box support of  FIG. 28 , without mud rings or electrical boxes; 
         FIG. 30  is a front elevation partial view of the box support of  FIG. 27 , with adjustable mud rings installed; 
         FIG. 31  is a front elevation partial view of the box support of  FIG. 28 , with mud rings installed; 
         FIG. 32  is a side sectional view of the box support of  FIG. 27 ; 
         FIG. 33  is a front elevation view of a mounting interface of the box support of  FIG. 27 ; 
         FIG. 34  is a top plan view of the mounting interface of  FIG. 33 ; 
         FIG. 35  is a front elevation view of a mounting interface of one of the cable supports of  FIG. 25 , for use with the mounting interface of  FIG. 33 ; 
         FIG. 36  is a bottom plan view of the mounting interface of  FIG. 35 ; 
         FIG. 37  is a side elevation view of the mounting interface of  FIG. 35 ; 
         FIGS. 38 and 39  are front elevation views illustrating installation of the mounting interface of  FIG. 33  onto the mounting interface of  FIG. 35 , during assembly of the box support system of  FIG. 25 ; 
         FIG. 40  is a side elevation view, respectively, of the mounting interfaces of  FIGS. 33 and 35  secured together after assembly of the box support system of  FIG. 25 ; 
         FIGS. 41 and 42  are front elevation views of cable supports for use with the box support systems of  FIGS. 25 and 26 ; 
         FIG. 43  is an isometric view of a floor stand for use with the cable support systems of  FIGS. 25 and 26 ; 
         FIG. 44  is a bottom isometric partial view of the box support assembly of  FIG. 25 ; and 
         FIG. 45  is an isometric partial view of a bottom portion of the floor stand of  FIG. 43 . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Before any embodiments of the invention are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the following drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of “including,” “comprising,” or “having” and variations thereof herein is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items. Unless specified or limited otherwise, the terms “mounted,” “connected,” “supported,” and “coupled” and variations thereof are used broadly and encompass both direct and indirect mountings, connections, supports, and couplings. Further, “connected” and “coupled” are not restricted to physical or mechanical connections or couplings. 
     The following discussion is presented to enable a person skilled in the art to make and use embodiments of the invention. Various modifications to the illustrated embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles herein can be applied to other embodiments and applications without departing from embodiments of the invention. Thus, embodiments of the invention are not intended to be limited to embodiments shown, but are to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and features disclosed herein. The following detailed description is to be read with reference to the figures, in which like elements in different figures have like reference numerals. The figures, which are not necessarily to scale, depict selected embodiments and are not intended to limit the scope of embodiments of the invention. Skilled artisans will recognize the examples provided herein have many useful alternatives and fall within the scope of embodiments of the invention. 
     As used herein, unless otherwise specified or limited, the term “C-shaped” specifies a shape that includes a base portion, with at least two leg portions extending in generally similar (e.g., parallel) directions from the base portion. In some embodiments, a “C-shaped” structure can include leg portions extending from opposite ends of the base portion at substantially right angles to the base portion, with or without curved or chamfered connecting regions between the leg portions and the base portion. In some embodiments, leg portions of a C-shaped structure may be curved extensions of a base portion. In some embodiments, a “C-shaped” structure can include legs of different lengths. 
     Also as used herein, unless otherwise specified or limited, directional terms are presented only with regard to the particular embodiment and perspective described. For example, reference to features or directions as “horizontal,” “vertical,” “front,” “rear,” “left,” and “right,” are generally made with reference to a particular figure or example and are not necessarily indicative of an absolute orientation or direction. However, relative directional terms for a particular embodiment may generally apply to alternative orientations of that embodiment. For example, “front” and “rear” directions or features (or “right” and “left” directions or features, and so on) may be generally understood to indicate relatively opposite directions or features. 
     As noted above, in some contexts, it may be useful to support electrical boxes and other components relative to structures. Embodiments of the invention can be useful for this purpose, and others. For example, embodiments of the invention can be used to support one or more electrical boxes at predetermined distances from supporting structures, such as wall studs, or in other predetermined orientations. As another example, embodiments of the invention can include mounting interfaces that allow for quick, tool-less connection of box supports for electrical boxes and support attachments, such as cable supports, conduit supports, adjustable floor stands, or any other support attachment. As still another example, embodiments of the invention can accommodate additional structures, such as attachments configured as adjustable mud rings. 
     In some embodiments, mounting interfaces on separate supports, such as a box support, a conduit support, a floor stand, or a cable support, can be configured to be engaged with each other manually, so that users do not need tools to create a multi-component support assembly. In some embodiments, a box-support mounting interface and a complimentary support-attachment mounting interface can be configured to be interleaved or nested with each other once installed. In some embodiments, the interfaces can include engagement features such as nested channels and interface arms for insertion into and interleaved (and other) engagement with corresponding insertion slots and support surfaces, respectively. Engagement of a support feature by an engagement feature can provide substantial stability for the overall assembly, in part due to the increased surface contact between the support feature and the engagement feature. 
       FIG. 1  illustrates an assembly configured as a box support system  100  according to an embodiment of the invention. In the illustrated embodiment, the system  100  includes a box support  102  that is configured to support electrical boxes  104  and a plurality of support attachments  106 . In other embodiments, including as discussed below, other configurations are possible, including configurations with different numbers or configurations of support attachments, electrical boxes, and so on. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the support attachments  106  are configured to be manually engaged with the box support  102  including, in some configurations, without requiring the use of separate fasteners. This can be useful, for example, in order to dispose each of the components in an appropriate location for installation during construction. To this end, as also discussed below, the box support  102  includes a set of top mounting interfaces  112 , and a set of bottom mounting interfaces  114 . Correspondingly, the support attachments  106  each include a corresponding mounting interface  116 . In the embodiment illustrated, each of the mounting interfaces  112 ,  114  are substantially identical to each other, so that the box support  102  can be identically used in the orientation shown or in a reversed orientation. Similarly, the mounting interfaces  116  are also substantially identical to each other, so that the support attachments  106  are interchangeably attached to any mounting location on any of the mounting interfaces  112 ,  114  on the box support  102 . In other embodiments, other configurations are possible. 
     As also noted above, the box support  102  is configured to support multiple electrical boxes  104 . In the arrangement illustrated in  FIG. 1 , the electrical boxes  104  are configured as 4″×2⅛″ boxes. In other configurations, other types of boxes, can be used. For example, some embodiments can be configured to support 4″×1½″ boxes, 4 11/16″×2⅛″ boxes, or other sizes of electrical boxes, including electrical boxes with different depths (i.e., as measured into the page in  FIG. 1 ). Usefully, the box support  102  includes a number of keyhole openings that surround substantially identical cut-outs  120  for the electrical boxes  104 . The configuration and disposition of the keyhole openings can allow electrical boxes of different sizes to be readily attached at the various cut-outs. In some embodiments, such as illustrated in  FIG. 1 , one or more of the keyhole openings can be shaped differently to indicate correspondence with different box sizes. For example, entry portions of the keyhole openings can be round or hexagonal, or otherwise indicated, in order to guide installation of screws for particular sizes of electrical boxes. 
     A support according to embodiments of the invention can be secured to other structures in different ways. In the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 1 , for example, mounting holes are provided on opposite ears  122  of the box support  102 . During installation, self-drilling screws can be driven through the mounting holes into underlying studs (or other structures) in order to quickly secure the box support  102  in place. In other embodiments, other configurations are possible. 
       FIG. 2  illustrates the box support  102  of the box support system  100 , without the support attachments  106  or the electrical boxes  104  attached thereto. Similarly,  FIG. 3  illustrates another box support  102   a  according to another embodiment of the invention. Generally, the box support  102   a  is configured similarly to the box support  102 , with reference numbers having an appended “a” indicating similar features as described above for the box support  102 . Unless otherwise stated or required, discussion below relating to the box support  102 , or components thereof, generally applies also to the box support  102   a  and components thereof 
     Despite the noted similarity, the box support  102   a  is different from the box support  102  in some aspects. For example, the box support  102  is configured with a 16″ length and three of the cut-outs  120 , whereas the box support  102   a  is configured with a 24″ length and four of the cut-outs  120   a.  Correspondingly, the box support  102   a  is configured to support an additional electrical box, and can also support additional support attachments with corresponding mounting interfaces  112   a,    114   a.    
     In some embodiments, configurations of cut-outs on a box support, such as the cut-outs  120 , can allow for functionality other than to mere access to electrical boxes. For example, as illustrated in  FIG. 4 , lateral, top, and bottom sides of the cut-outs  120  of the box support  102  include extended side portions. This may be useful, for example, in order to accommodate fasteners used for adjustment of adjustable mud rings  128 , or for other purposes. For example, as fasteners are actuated to adjust the adjustable mud rings  128 , the fasteners can readily pass through the extended side portions, in order to avoid interference with structures of the box support  102 . In the embodiment illustrated, with the extended side portions included on all four sides of the cut-outs  120 , the adjustable mud rings  128  can be mounted for adjustment in either horizontal (on left in  FIG. 4 ) or vertical (on right in  FIG. 4 ) configurations. 
     In some embodiments, mounting openings on a box support can accommodate relatively easy attachment of other components. In one example, the box support  102  includes a set of relatively small mounting holes disposed relatively close to some of the keyhole openings for attachment of electrical boxes. Usefully, the mounting holes can receive self-tapping screws in order to attach mud rings  130  in horizontal (on right in  FIG. 5 ) or vertical (on left in  FIG. 5 ) orientations. This may be appropriate, for example, for low voltage applications in which electrical boxes may not necessarily also be used. 
       FIG. 6  illustrates the box support  102  of the box support system  100 , without the support attachments  106  attached thereto. In the illustrated arrangement, as also shown in  FIG. 1 , each of the electrical boxes  104  includes a set of fittings that can enclose conductors extending into the electrical boxes  104 . For example, among many others, ¾″ fittings and ½″ fittings extend from the electrical box  104 . In the illustrated configuration, each of the fittings illustrated includes a fitting screw extending from a front side thereof. The electrical boxes  104  can each include the same or a different number of fittings, and the arrangement of fittings can be symmetrical or non-symmetrical. In another embodiment, electrical boxes could have more fittings, less fittings, or no fittings on the top side, the bottom side, or on both sides. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the box support  102  is dimensioned to provide enough clearance between each of the fitting screws, and the front face and the top (or bottom) edge of the box support  102  to provide access to the fitting screws from the front side of the box support  102  while the fittings are positioned in the electrical boxes  104 . This can be useful in order to provide access to the fitting screws so that the conduits (e.g., EMT conduits) and cables (e.g., MC cables) can be attached to fittings on the box support system  100  after the electrical boxes  104  are secured to the box support  102 , and so that the fitting screws can be loosened or tightened as needed, including from the front side of the box support  102 . 
     As illustrated in  FIGS. 7 and 8A , portions of the box support  102  can be embossed, providing a corresponding extruded section  134  between the ears  122  and the front face of the box support  102 . This can be useful, for example, in order to enhance the rigidity of the box support  102 . In the illustrated embodiment, the extruded sections  134  are identical—each being recessed about 0.06″ from the front face of the box support  102 . In other embodiments, however, the extruded sections can be recessed more or less than the illustrated embodiments. A box support can also have at least one differently sized or shaped extruded section, and at least one extruded section can extend outward from the face of the box support in the opposite direction as the illustrated extruded sections. Further, in some embodiments, at least one of the extruded sections can be omitted. As illustrated in  FIG. 8B , for example, a box support  102   b  may not include any extruded sections between the ears  122   b  and the front face of the box support  102   b.    
     As also discussed above, embodiments of the box support can include box-support mounting interfaces that can allow for manual, secure, and somewhat interchangeable attachment of different support attachments. An example configuration for the top mounting interface  112  of the box support  102  is illustrated in  FIGS. 9-12 . In the illustrated embodiment, a substantially identical configuration can be used for the bottom mounting interfaces  114 . Alternatively, some embodiments can use different top or bottom mounting interfaces. In some embodiments, a similar or substantially identical configuration can be used for other supports according to embodiments of the invention. For example, configurations similar to the mounting interfaces  114  can be provided on structures to be attached to a box support, with a complementary mounting interface (e.g., as described below) on the box support itself. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 9 , each of the top and bottom mounting interfaces  112 ,  114  collectively includes a support feature  140  with a first channel  142  that is configured in a C-shape and includes a first side wall  144 , a second side wall  146  opposite the first side wall  144 , and a first connecting wall  148  extending generally between the back ends of the first and second side walls  144 ,  146 . An open side is defined between the first and second side walls  144 ,  146 , opposite the first connecting wall  148 , such that the mounting interfaces  112 ,  114  define open-sided channels. 
     In different embodiments, different configurations for a channel of a mounting interface are possible. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, the first side wall  144  extends horizontally away from the box support  102  (in the illustrated orientation) in a direction opposite a mounting face to which the electrical boxes  104  can be secured. The first connecting wall  148  is substantially parallel to the mounting face and extends vertically upward (or downward, for the bottom mounting interfaces  114 ) from the back end of the first side wall  144  to the back end of the second side wall  146 . The second side wall  146 , which is substantially parallel to the first side wall  144 , extends forward and away from the first connecting wall  148 , ending at a front end of the second side wall  146  that is in vertical alignment with the mounting face of the box support  102 . Further, in the illustrated embodiment, the side walls  144 ,  146  and the connecting wall  148  are continuously connected to form a continuous channel. In other embodiments, however, other configurations are possible, including non-parallel, non-squared, and non-continuous configurations. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the support features  140  of each of the top mounting interfaces  112  (and the bottom mounting interfaces  114 ) are linked in a single continuous structure that extends along the entire length of the top of the box support  102 , thereby providing relatively significant rigidity and strength. For example, the geometry of the support feature  140  (and the C-shaped channel  142  of the support feature  140 ) can provide relatively high stiffness for bending and torsional moments, so that the box support  102  is resistant to twisting and other deformation (e.g., bending). In the illustrated embodiment, the first side wall  144 , the second side wall  146 , and the first connecting wall  148  are integrally formed in the box support  102 . In other embodiments, other configurations are possible. 
     In some embodiments, at least one of the support features  140  can be configured in alternative shapes or structures (e.g. V-shaped channels, etc.) that can also provide structural stability to the box support  102 . For example, the support feature  140  can be configured with different angular relationships between various walls  144 ,  146 ,  148  (or other sections) of the first channel  142  and the faces of the box support  102 . Further, the support feature  140  can be formed from multiple discontinuous features in some embodiments. 
     In some embodiments, other features and aspects can be provided to assist in securing support features to the box support at mounting interfaces, as well as to provide other useful functionality. In the embodiment illustrated, for example, each of the mounting interfaces  112 ,  114  includes two insertion slots  150  (see  FIGS. 11 and 12 ) that are configured to receive a portion of a corresponding support attachment. In the embodiment illustrated, the insertion slots  150  are configured as elongate horizontal slots that are disposed generally adjacent to the second side wall  146  and extend fully through the first connecting wall  148  from the interior of the first channel  142  to the exterior of the first channel  142 . In other embodiments, however, other configurations are possible. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 11  in particular, each of the mounting interfaces  112 ,  114  also includes a set of locking openings  154  formed through the first connecting wall  148 . As will be described in greater detail below, each of the locking openings  154  is configured to receive a fastener (not shown) to secure the support attachment  106  to the box support  102 . In other embodiments, other configurations of the locking openings  154  are possible. For example, in some configurations, a locking opening for multiple fasteners can be collectively formed as a single, continuous opening. Similarly, in some embodiments, a locking opening can be formed as a single, continuous opening that is configured for use with multiple adjacent instances of the mounting interfaces  112 ,  114  (or other mounting interfaces). In some embodiments, a locking opening can be provided on a different part of a mounting interface than is illustrated for the mounting interfaces  112 ,  114 , or can exhibit a different geometry than illustrated in, for example,  FIG. 11 . 
     In some embodiments, other features can be included on the box support  102 . For example, as illustrated in  FIGS. 9 and 10A  in particular, the box support  102  includes an embossed ridge  156  that extends across the entire lateral length of the box support  102  (other than the ears  122 ). Similarly to the extruded sections  134 , the embossed ridge  156  can provide further structural reinforcement for the box support  102 , including with regard to resistance to torsion, with the horizontal orientation of the embossed ridge allowing for easy installation of electrical boxes of different sizes. In some embodiments, a box support can have at least one differently sized or shaped embossed ridge, and at least one of the embossed ridges can be omitted. As illustrated in  FIG. 10B , for example, a box support  102   b  may not include any embossed ridges formed proximate the support features  140   b.    
     In some embodiments, a support attachment can include a support-attachment mounting interface that is generally complimentary to the configuration of a box-support mounting interface, such as the interfaces  112 ,  114  discussed above.  FIGS. 13-16  illustrate an example configuration for the mounting interfaces  116  of the support attachments  106  that is generally complimentary to the configuration of the top mounting interface  112  as illustrated in  FIGS. 9-12 . In some embodiments, a substantially identical configuration can be used for other attachment mounting interfaces. In this way, for example, any of these mounting interfaces can interchangeably engage any one of the top or bottom mounting interfaces  112 ,  114 . In other embodiments, other mounting interfaces with other engagement features can be used on other supports (e.g., other attachments). In some embodiments, multiple mounting interfaces can be included on a single support attachment. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting interface  116  includes an engagement feature  164  that is generally complimentary to the support feature  140  on the corresponding top mounting interface  112  (see, e.g.,  FIGS. 9-12 ). In this regard, for example, the engagement feature  164  includes multiple distinct types of interface features. For example, the engagement feature  164  includes a second channel  166  that includes a third side wall  168 , a fourth side wall  170 , and a second connecting wall  172  that connects the third and fourth side walls  168 ,  170 . An open side is defined between the third and fourth side walls  168 ,  170 , opposite the second connecting wall  172 , such that the mounting interfaces  116  defines an open-sided channel. Further, the engagement feature  164  also includes inner interface arms  174  and outer interface arms  176 . As discussed in further detail below, the second channel  166  is configured to nest within the first channel  142  and the inner and outer interface arms  174 ,  176  are configured for interleaved engagement with the second side wall  146 . Further, the inner interface arms  174  are configured to be inserted into the corresponding insertion slots  150 . In other embodiments, other configurations are possible. 
     In the embodiment illustrated, the second channel  166  is configured in a C-shape similar to that of the first channel  142 . The third side wall  168  is positioned proximate a bottom edge of the support attachment  106  and extends horizontally away therefrom. The second connecting wall  172  extends downward from a back end of the third side wall  168  to a back end of the fourth side wall  170 , which extends back towards the front face of the support attachment  106 . Similarly to the corresponding segments of the first channel  142 , the second connecting wall  172  is substantially parallel to the front face, and the third side wall  168  is substantially parallel to the fourth side wall  170 , which has a front end that is in vertical alignment with the front face of the support attachment  106 . Further, in the illustrated embodiment, the side walls  166 ,  168  and the connecting wall  172  are continuously connected to form a continuous channel. In other embodiments, however, other configurations are possible, including non-parallel, non-squared, and non-continuous configurations 
     As previously discussed, the second channel  166  is configured to be nested in the first channel  142 . For example, as illustrated in  FIG. 17  in particular, the second connecting wall  172  is dimensioned so that, when the engagement feature  164  engages the support feature  140  (as described in further detail below), the third and fourth side walls  168 ,  170  generally abut the second and first side walls  146 ,  144 , respectively, with substantially all of the first side wall  144  flush with the fourth side wall  170 . Further, the third side wall  168  is dimensioned so that the second connecting wall  172  abuts the first connecting wall  148 , with substantially all of the second connecting wall  172  flush with the first connecting wall  148 , and a back face of the support attachment  106  is generally coplanar with the mounting face of the box support and abuts the front end of the second side wall  146 . 
     In other embodiments, the second channel  166  may have other configurations. For example, an engagement feature  164  can include multiple channel segments in addition to, or in place of, the continuous channel of the illustrated embodiment. Likewise, the third side wall  168  can be dimensioned so that the second connecting wall  172  does not abut the first connecting wall  148 , or so that the back face of the support attachment  106  does not abut the front end of the second side wall  146 . Further, the second connecting wall  172  can be dimensioned so that the fourth side wall  170  does not abut the first side wall  144 . In other embodiments, still other configurations are possible. 
     With continued reference to  FIGS. 13-16 , the engagement feature  164  includes two inner interface arms  174  and two outer interface arms  176 . The second channel  166  is centrally positioned along the lateral length of the engagement feature  164 , and the outer interface arms  176  are positioned symmetrically on opposite sides of the second channel  166 , proximate the lateral ends of the engagement feature  164  and spaced laterally apart from the second channel  166 . The two inner interface arms  174  are located symmetrically between and spaced laterally apart from a respective one of the outer interface arms  176  and the second channel  166 . Further, each of the arms  174  has a position (and a spacing therebetween) that corresponds to a location and spacing of the corresponding insertion slot  150  on the support feature  140 . The inner interface arms  174  are positioned proximate the bottom edge of the support attachment  106  and extend horizontally away from the front face thereof so that the inner interface arms  174  are substantially coplanar with the third side wall  168 . The outer interface arms  176  extend horizontally from the support attachment  106  in substantially the same direction as the inner interface arms  174  and the third side wall  168 , but are positioned above the inner interface arms  174  to define a vertical gap therebetween (see, e.g.,  FIG. 14 ). This can, for example, allow for attachment of the support attachment  106  to the box support  102  by moving the engagement feature  164  in a direction that is generally perpendicular to the front face of the box support  102 . This may also be useful to help secure mounting interfaces  112 ,  166  together when the box support  102  is secured in a confined location with minimal clearance above the installed support attachment  106 . 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the inner interface arms  174  extend farther away from the support attachment  106  than does the third side wall  168 , and the outer interface arms  176  extend farther from the support attachment  106  than does the inner interface arms  174 . As further described below, this can be useful, for example, in order to help align the engagement feature  164  with the corresponding support feature. Similarly, the outer interface arms  176  and the inner interface arms  174  have vertical positions selected so that the second side wall  146  of the support feature  140  can be relatively snugly received in the gap between the inner and outer interface arms  174 ,  176 . This may be useful, for example, to provide relatively substantial rigidity to the support attachment  106  overall, when secured to a box support using the engagement feature  164 . 
     In other embodiments, other configurations are possible. For example, other embodiments of an engagement feature can be configured with different angular relationships between various sections of a channel, inner and outer (or other) interface arms, and certain faces of a support attachment. Further, some embodiments can include additional inner and outer (or other) interface arms, fewer inner and outer (or other) interface arms, or the same number of inner and outer (or other) interface arms as the illustrated embodiments. Some embodiments can be configured with alternative positions for at least one of the inner and outer interface arms, such as described below relative to  FIGS. 21-24 . In some embodiments, at least two inner, outer, or other interface arms can be formed by a single continuous feature. In some embodiments, other, differently configured interface arms can be used. 
     In some embodiments, other features and aspects can be provided to assist in securing support features to the box support at mounting interfaces, as well as to provide stability and other useful functionality. In some embodiments, locking protrusions, including flaps, detents, flanges, or other protrusions can be provided to help secure channels of two mounting interfaces in a nested configuration with appropriate abutment between corresponding walls. In the embodiment illustrated, for example, the outer interface arms  176  each include a biased locking protrusion  182  that is configured to resiliently move between extended and retracted positions. In the extended position, the biased locking protrusions  182  taper downward between a first end that is connected to the respective outer interface arm  176  proximate a back end thereof, and a second end positioned forward relative to the first end. When in the retracted position, the biased locking protrusions  182  are configured to be generally coplanar and flush (or otherwise more closely aligned) with the surfaces of the outer interface arms  176 . In some embodiments, as alluded to above, a locking protrusion such as the locking protrusions  182 , can be biased to rest in an extended position but can be manually movable (e.g., with or without tools) to a retracted position, as needed. 
     The second channel  166  also includes two biased locking protrusions  184 —similarly structured to the biased locking protrusions  182  on the outer interface arms  176 —that are formed on the third side wall  168 . In their extended positions, the biased locking protrusions  184  each taper upward from a first end connected to the third side wall  168  proximate the second connecting wall  172 , and a second end positioned towards the front face of the support attachment  106 . The biased locking protrusions  184  on the second channel  166  are configured to be generally coplanar and flush (or otherwise more closely aligned) with the surfaces of the third side wall  168  in the retracted position. As further explained below, the biased locking protrusions  182 ,  184  of the outer interface arms  176  and the second channel  166  are configured to bear against the first channel  142  to help retain the engagement feature  164  on the support feature  140 , and to bias the first and second channels  142 ,  166  into firm engagement with each other. 
     In some embodiments, other configurations are possible. For example, different geometries, locations, numbers, or other aspects of biased locking protrusions are possible. In some embodiments, at least one biased locking protrusion can be coupled to alternative portions of an engagement feature. For example, in some embodiments, at least one of the inner interface arms  174  can include a biased locking protrusion configured to bear against the inner surface of the first side wall  144 , or a biased locking protrusion configured to bear against the outer surface of the first connecting wall  148 . Similarly, the outer interface arms  176  can be configured to each have a biased locking protrusion that is configured to bear against the outer surface of the first side wall  144 . 
     In still other embodiments, a similar or other locking protrusion can alternatively (or additionally) be included on the second channel  166 , the inner interface arms  174 , the outer interface arms  176 , or on the support feature  140  of a box support  102  mounting interfaces  112 ,  114 . In some embodiments, locking protrusions and openings can be formed on particular mounting interfaces, including mounting interfaces similar to those expressly described above. 
     As may also be useful to help secure mounting interfaces together, and as illustrated in  FIG. 13 , each of the support attachment  106  mounting interfaces  116  can include a set of locking openings  188  formed through the second connecting wall  172 . Each of the locking openings  188  has a position that corresponds to a corresponding one of the locking opening  154  on the support feature  140  (see, e.g.,  FIG. 11 ), and is configured to allow simultaneous engagement of each set of the corresponding locking openings  154 ,  188  by a fastener. While not necessarily required to secure the mounting interfaces  112 ,  116  together for installation and use, this fastened arrangement may provide, for example, a more secure connection to allow the support attachment  106  and the box support  102  to be assembled together and then shipped elsewhere for installation. Similar to the locking openings  154  on the box-support mounting interfaces  112 ,  114 , embodiments of the locking openings  188  can have a variety of different configurations which may be the same or different than the configuration of the corresponding locking opening  154 . 
       FIGS. 17-18  illustrate an example of engagement between the engagement features  164  of the mounting interface  116  and the support features  140  of the top mounting interface  112 , which can be accomplished manually and without the use of any tools. In some embodiments, a cable support, a conduit support, or another support, can be similarly secured to a support such as the box support  102  in the same, or a similar, manner. 
     To secure the support attachment  106  to the box support  102 , the respective mounting interfaces  112 ,  116  can first be generally aligned with each other. In this regard, for example, the outer interface arms  176 , which are longer than the inner interface arms  174 , can provide an alignment guide by engaging the top surface of the second side wall  146  to place the inner interface arms  174  in horizontal alignment with the insertion slots  150 . The support attachment  106  can then be moved (e.g., translated) laterally until the inner interface arms  174  are aligned with, and can be inserted into, the insertion slots  150 . In some embodiments, for example, a visual alignment indicator  192  disposed on at least one of the support attachment or the box support  102  (see  FIG. 18 ) can also be used to aid in alignment. Similarly, features on a particular interface arm, such as an angled end as illustrated for the interface arms  174 , can interact with a corresponding insertion slot (or other feature) to further help to align mounting interfaces to be secured together. 
     Once the mounting interfaces  112 ,  116  are appropriately aligned, the support attachment  106  can be moved towards the box support  102 , thereby inserting the second channel  166  into nested engagement with the first channel  142 . As the first and second channels  142 ,  166  move into a nested arrangement, the second side wall  146  depresses the biased locking protrusions  182 ,  184 , moving them into (or towards) their closed positions. Once the second channel  166  is fully inserted, the biased locking protrusions  182  on the outer interface arms  176  can resiliently return to (or towards) their extended positions and thereby bear against the outer surface of the first connecting wall  148  of the first channel  142 . This can, for example, help to more firmly secure the mounting interfaces  112 ,  116  together, for a more secure support of the support attachment  106  and allow for visible assurance that the mounting interfaces  112 ,  116  are in engagement with one another. Similarly, with the channels  142 ,  166  nested together, the biased locking protrusions  184  on the second channel  166  can resiliently return to (or towards) their extended positions to bear against the inner surface of the second side wall  146  of the first channel  142 . Again, for example, this can help to more firmly secure the mounting interfaces  112 ,  116  together, for a more secure support of the support attachment  106 . 
     Further, in the illustrated installed configuration, the engagement feature  164 —and the interface arms  174 ,  176  in particular—is engaged in interleaved contact with the support feature  140 —in particular, the second side wall  146  of the channel  142 . This arrangement can, for example, further contribute to a relatively stable connection between the support attachment  106  and the box support  102 . 
     In this regard, for example, in the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 17 and 18 , the biased locking protrusions  184  on the second channel  166  biases the lower surface of the outer interface arms  176  into engagement with the outer surface of the channel  166 , and biases the lower surface of the fourth side wall  170  into engagement with the inner surface of the channel  142 . Further, the biased locking protrusions  184  continues to bear against the inner surface of the first channel  142 , which can be useful in order to provide enhanced rigidity. Once extended, the biased locking protrusions  182  on the outer interface arms  176  bear against the first connecting wall  148  to hold the outer surface of the second connecting wall  172  of the second channel  166  in engagement with the inner surface of the first channel, and to inhibit disengagement of the mounting interfaces  112 ,  116 . In addition, with the channels  142 ,  166  nested together, the biased locking protrusions  182  may be in an accessible location, from outside of the channels  142 ,  166  such that each relevant locking protrusion  182  may be moved from its closed position to release the support attachment  106  from the box support  102  (e.g., manually, with a hand tool). 
     In this way, for example, the resulting nested and interleaved engagement can substantially reduce wobble or other undesired displacement (e.g., rotation) of the support attachment  106  and the box support  102  relative to each other. Thus, for example, the engagement of the support feature  140  and the engagement feature  164  can provide a secure connection between the support attachment  106  and the box support  102 , allowing for installation of the box support  102  and the cable support  114  as an integrated system. 
     In some embodiments, mounting interfaces can be manually separated as well as manually engaged. For example, to remove the support attachment  106  from the box support  102 , the outer interface arms  176  can be manually moved to move the biased locking protrusions  182  out of alignment with the wall  148  and thereby allow the support-attachment mounting interface  116  to be moved out of interleaved engagement with the box-support mounting interface  112 . 
     In some embodiments, such as when further stability may be desired, a fastener (not shown) can be inserted into corresponding locking openings  154 ,  188  on the mounting interfaces  112 ,  116 . The fastener, which can be tightened by hand or using a tool, can further restrict relative movement between the support feature  140  and the engagement feature  164 , thereby further helping to prevent disengagement of the mounting interfaces  112 ,  116 . This can be useful, for example, in order to secure a support attachment  106  to a box support  102  for shipping prefabricated assemblies of the box support systems  100 . 
     In some embodiments, the mounting interface on a support attachment can be formed from a precut sheet metal blank. For example,  FIG. 19  illustrates an example of a blank for an engagement feature  264  before the sheet metal has been manipulated (e.g., stamped) into the desired engagement feature configuration. In some configurations, the blank illustrated in  FIG. 19  can be formed into a mounting interface that is substantially similar to the mounting interface  116  (see, e.g.,  FIG. 14 ), with interface arms formed from portions  274 ,  276 , a channel formed from portion  266 , and locking openings formed from portions  288 . 
     In some embodiments, the dimensions or other geometric aspects of at least one of the support feature or the engagement feature can be different than those illustrated in any of  FIGS. 1-18 . For example, as illustrated in  FIG. 20 , at least one of biased locking protrusions  382 ,  384  on a support attachment  306  mounting interface  316  can be configured to have a shallower taper angle in their extended positions than the locking protrusions  182 ,  184  (see, e.g.,  FIG. 14 ). This can be useful, for example, when forming the engagement feature  364  from less flexible materials, such as mild steel (e.g., as opposed to heat-treated spring steel). Conversely, at least one biased locking extrusions can be configured to have a larger taper angle than the illustrated embodiments when using more flexible (or other) materials. In other embodiments, the particular configuration of biased locking extrusions can be configured based on other criteria. 
     In other embodiments, other configurations are possible, including configurations that are substantially reversed from those discussed above. For example, the support feature  140  (or an alternative embodiment thereof) can be provided on at least one support-attachment mounting interface, and the engagement feature  164  (or an alternative embodiment thereof) can be provided on a corresponding box-support mounting interface. Similarly, although some embodiments herein include substantially identical mounting interfaces arrayed along a particular body (e.g., a box support), bodies according to some embodiments can include different configurations of mounting interfaces. 
     In some embodiments, the positions of interface arms can be different than discussed above, including configurations that are substantially reversed relative to at least one of the inner interface arms  174  and outer interface arms  176  (see, e.g.,  FIGS. 15 and 16 ). As shown in  FIGS. 21 and 22 , for example, an engagement feature  464  includes inner and outer interface arms  474 ,  476  that include, respectively, features and spacing similar to those of the outer and inner interface arms  176 ,  174  illustrated in  FIGS. 13-16 . In this regard, for example, the engagement feature  464  can be configured to engage a corresponding mounting interface with insertion slots (e.g. similar to the slots  150  of  FIGS. 11 and 12 ) that are aligned to receive the interface arms  476 , with the interface arms  476 ,  474  interleaved on opposite sides of a common feature of the corresponding mounting interface. 
     As another example, as illustrated in  FIGS. 23 and 24 , an engagement feature  564  includes inner interface arms  574   a,    574   b  and outer interface arms  576   a,    576   b  that include different features, as compared to the inner and outer interface arms  174 ,  176  illustrated in  FIGS. 13-16 . In particular, the interface arms  574   b,    576   a  are configured with similar structure and functional roles as the outer interface arms  176 , with biased locking protrusions  582 . Likewise, the interface arms  574   a,    576   b  are configured with similar structure and functional roles as the inner interface arms  174 . Further, mounting openings  588 , a visual alignment indicator  592 , or other component can be asymmetrically positioned on the engagement feature  564 . Accordingly, for example, the engagement feature  564  can be configured to engage a mounting interface that is correspondingly modified relative to the mounting interfaces  112  (see, e.g.,  FIGS. 11 and 12 ). 
       FIG. 25  illustrates an assembly configured as a box support system  600  according to an embodiment of the invention. In the illustrated embodiment, the system  600  includes a box support  602  that is configured to support electrical boxes  604 ,  606 ,  608  (or others), a first set of support attachments configured as cable supports  612 ,  614 ,  616 , and another support attachment configured as a floor stand  620 . 
     The cable supports  612 ,  614 ,  616  and the floor stand  620  are configured to be manually engaged with the box support  602 . This can be useful, for example, in order to dispose each of the components in an appropriate location for installation during construction. To this end, as also discussed below, the box support  602  includes a set of top mounting interfaces  622 , and a set of bottom mounting interfaces  624 . Correspondingly, the cable supports  612 ,  614 ,  616  each include a corresponding mounting interface  626 ,  628 ,  630  and the floor stand  620  includes a mounting interface  634 . In the embodiment illustrated, the mounting interfaces  622 ,  624  are substantially identical to each other, so that the box support  602  can be identically used in the orientation shown or in a reversed orientation. Similarly, the mounting interfaces  626 ,  628 ,  630 ,  634  are also substantially identical to each other, so that the cable supports  612 ,  614 ,  616  and the floor stand  620  can be manually and interchangeably attached to any mounting location on any of the mounting interfaces  622 ,  624  on the box support  602 . In other embodiments, other configurations are possible. 
     As also noted above, the box support  602  is configured to support electrical boxes, such as the electrical boxes  604 ,  606 ,  608 . In the embodiment illustrated, the electrical boxes  604 ,  606 ,  608  are configured as 5″, 4″, and 4 11/16″ boxes, respectively. In other configurations, other types of boxes can be used. Usefully, the box support  602  includes a number of keyhole openings  636  (only some labeled in  FIG. 25 ) that surround substantially identical cut-outs  638  for the electrical boxes. The configuration and disposition of the keyhole openings  636  can allow electrical boxes of different sizes to be readily attached at the various cut-outs  638 . In some embodiments, such as illustrated in  FIG. 25 , one or more of the keyhole openings  636  can be shaped differently to indicate correspondence with different box sizes. For example, entry portions of the keyhole openings  636  can be round or hexagonal, or otherwise indicated, in order to guide installation of screws for particular sizes of electrical boxes. 
     A support according to embodiments of the invention can be secured to other structures in different ways. In the embodiments illustrated in  FIG. 25 , for example, mounting holes  640  are provided on opposite ears  642  of the box support  602 . During installation, self-drilling screws can be driven through the mounting holes  640  into underlying studs (or other structures) in order to quickly secure the box support  602  in place. In other embodiments, other configurations are possible. 
       FIG. 26  illustrates another assembly configured as a box support system  600   a  according to another embodiment of the invention. Generally, the box support system  600   a  is configured similarly to the box support system  600 , with reference numbers having an appended “a” indicating similar features as described above for the box support system  600 . Unless otherwise stated or required, discussion below relating to the box support system  600 , or components thereof, generally applies also to the box support system  600   a  and components thereof. 
     Despite the noted similarity, the box support system  600   a  is different from the box support system  600  in some aspects. For example, the box support system  600  is configured with a 16″ length and three of the cut-outs  638 , whereas the box support system  600   a  is configured with a 24″ length and four of the cut-outs  638   a.  Correspondingly, the box support system  600   a  is configured to support an additional electrical box  610   a,  and also includes (in the illustrated configuration) an additional cable support  618   a  with a corresponding mounting interface  632   a.    
     The embodiment of  FIG. 26  exhibits additional aspects that demonstrate the versatility of support systems according to the invention. For example, the electrical boxes  604   a,    606   a,    608 ,  610   a  are differently configured than the electrical boxes  604 ,  606 ,  608 , with measurements of 4 11/16″, 4″, 5″, and 5″, respectively. In other embodiments, other combinations of electrical boxes can be similarly used. Relatedly, whereas the cable supports  612 ,  614 ,  616  are configured to support cables or conduits extending from electrical boxes sized as the electrical boxes  604 ,  606 ,  608 , the cable supports  612   a,    614   a,    616   a    618   a  are configured to support cables or conduits extending from electrical boxes sized as the electrical boxes  604   a,    606   a,    608   a,    610   a.  In other embodiments, other configurations are similarly possible. 
       FIG. 27  illustrates the box support  602  of the box support system  600 , without the cable supports  612 ,  614 ,  616  or floor stand  620  attached thereto. In the illustrated arrangement, as also shown in  FIG. 25 , each of the electrical boxes  604 ,  606 ,  608  includes sets of fittings that can enclose conductors extending into the electrical boxes  604 ,  606 ,  608 . For example, among many others, ¾″ fittings  650  extend from the electrical box  604 , and ½″ fittings  652  extend from the electrical box  606 . Each of the fittings illustrated, including the fittings  650 ,  652  includes a fitting screw  654  extending from a front side thereof. The electrical boxes  604 ,  606 ,  608  can each include the same or a different number of fittings, and can further be symmetrical or non-symmetrical. In another embodiment, electrical boxes could have more fittings, less fittings, or no fittings on the top side, the bottom side, or on both sides. 
       FIG. 28  illustrates the box support  602   a  of the box support system  600   a,  without the cable supports,  612   a,    614   a,    616   a,    618   a  or floor stand  620   a  attached thereto. As similarly discussed with regard to  FIG. 27 , electrical boxes  604   a,    606   a,    608   a  can each include the same or a different number of fittings, and can be symmetrical or non-symmetrical. 
       FIG. 29  illustrates the box support  602   a  of the box support system  600   a,  without the cable supports,  612   a,    614   a,    616   a,    618   a,  floor stand  620   a,  or electrical boxes  604   a,    606   a,    608   a  attached thereto. The box support  602   a  is configured to include additional space in between adjacent cut-outs  638   a,  as compared to the box support  602 . This can be useful, for example, in order to enhance the rigidity of the box support  602   a.  In some cases, this can also allow for installation of 5″ electrical boxes at each mounting location along the box support  602   a.  For example, a pitch of 5 1/16″ for each cut-out  638   a  can allow use of all 5″ electrical boxes as well as installation of 5″ mud-rings, without interference (see also, e.g.,  FIGS. 26 and 28 ). A relatively wider pitch for the cut-outs  638  can also allow installation of relatively large electrical boxes at any desired orientation of the boxes. This may be useful, for example, in order to accommodate installation of electrical boxes (e.g., 5″ electrical boxes) that may have asymmetrical knock-out configurations. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the relatively large spacing between adjacent cut-outs  638   a  can allow the box support  602   a  to include additional keyhole openings  658   a  that can accommodate adjacent 5″ electrical boxes. 
     In some embodiments, configurations of cut-outs on a box support, such as the cut-outs  638 , can allow for functionality other than to mere access to electrical boxes. For example, as illustrated in  FIG. 30 , lateral, top, and bottom sides of the cut-outs  638  of the box support  602  include extended side portions  660 . This may be useful, for example, in order to accommodate fasteners  662  used for adjustment of adjustable mud rings  664 . For example, as the fasteners  662  are actuated to adjust the adjustable mud rings  664 , the fasteners  662  can readily pass through the extended side portions  660 , in order to avoid interference with structures of the box support  602 . In the embodiment illustrated, with the extended side portions  660  included on all four sides of the cut-outs  638 , the mud rings  664  can be mounted for adjustment in either horizontal (on right in  FIG. 30 ) or vertical (on left in  FIG. 30 ) configurations. 
     In some embodiments, mounting openings on a box support can accommodate relatively easy attachment of other components. In one example, the box support  602  includes a set of relatively small mounting holes  670  disposed relatively close to some of the keyhole openings  636  for attachment of electrical boxes (see  FIG. 27 ). Usefully, the mounting holes  670  can receive self-tapping screws in order to attach mud rings  672  in horizontal (on right in  FIG. 31 ) or vertical (on left in  FIG. 31 ) orientations. This may be appropriate, for example, for low voltage applications in which electrical boxes may not necessarily also be used. 
     As also discussed above, embodiments of the box support can include box-support mounting interfaces that can allow for manual, secure, and somewhat interchangeable attachment of different support attachments. An example configuration for the top mounting interface  622  of the box support  602  is illustrated in  FIGS. 33, 34, and 35 . In the illustrated embodiment, a substantially identical configuration can be used for the bottom mounting interfaces  624 . Alternatively, some embodiments can use different top or bottom mounting interfaces. In some embodiments, a similar or substantially identical configuration can be used for other supports according to embodiments of the invention. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 32 , each of the top and bottom mounting interfaces  622 ,  624  collectively include a support feature  680  configured as a C-shaped channel and including a first side wall  682 , a second side wall  684  opposite the first side wall  682 , and a first support surface  686  extending generally horizontally between the upper ends of the first and second side walls  682 ,  684 . The first side wall  682  and second side wall  684  are substantially parallel with a mounting face  688  of the box support  602  to which the electrical boxes  604 ,  606 ,  608  can be secured. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the support features  680  of each of the top mounting interfaces  622  (and the bottom mounting interfaces  624 ) are linked in a single continuous structure that extends along the entire length of the top of the box support  602 , thereby providing relatively significant rigidity and strength. For example, the geometry of the support feature  680  (and the C-shaped channel of the support feature  680 ) can provide relatively high stiffness for bending and torsional moments, so that the box support  602  is resistant to twisting and other deformation (e.g., bending). In the illustrated embodiment, the first side wall  682 , the second side wall  684 , and the first support surface  686  are integrally formed in the box support  602 . In other embodiments, other configurations are possible. 
     In some embodiments, at least one of the support features  680  can be configured in alternative shapes or structures (e.g. V-shaped channels, etc.) that can also provide structural stability to the box support  602 . Further, the support feature  680  can be formed from multiple discontinuous features in some embodiments. 
     In some embodiments, other features and aspects can be provided to assist in securing support features to the box support at mounting interfaces, as well as to provide other useful functionality. In the embodiment illustrated, for example, each of the mounting interfaces  622 ,  624  includes a set of locking openings  690 . In the embodiment illustrated, each of the locking openings  690  is configured as a horizontal slot that extends fully through the first side wall  682 , although other configurations are possible. Further, each of the mounting interfaces  622 ,  624  also includes two insertion slots  692  that are configured to receive a portion of a corresponding support attachment. In the embodiment illustrated, each of the insertion slots  692  extends through the first support surface  686 , generally adjacent to the first side wall  682 . Further, each of the locking openings  690  is generally positioned in vertical alignment with a corresponding one of the insertion slots  692 . 
     In some embodiments, other features can be included on the box support  602 . For example, as illustrated in  FIGS. 32 and 33  in particular, the box support  602  includes an integrally formed channel  694  that extends across the entire lateral length of the box support  602  (other than the ears at the opposing ends thereof). In some embodiments, the channel  694  can provide further structural reinforcement for the box support  602 , including with regard to resistance to bending, with the horizontal orientation of the channel  694  allowing for easy installation of electrical boxes of different sizes. 
     In other embodiments, other configurations of the mounting interfaces  622 ,  624  are possible. For example, in some embodiments, the locking openings  690  can be collectively formed as a single, continuous opening. Similarly, in some embodiments, one of the locking openings  690  can be formed as a single, continuous opening with at least one locking opening  690  of an adjacent one of the mounting interfaces  622 ,  624 . In some embodiments, the locking opening  690  can be provided on a different part of the mounting interfaces  622 ,  624 , such as the second side wall  684 , or can exhibit a different geometry than illustrated in the FIGS. In some embodiments, insertion slots can be disposed generally adjacent to the second side wall  684 , or may not be aligned with a corresponding set of locking openings. Similarly, in some embodiments, locking openings can be formed in the second side wall  684 , or can be formed as indents into a relevant feature, rather than extending fully therethrough. 
     In some embodiments, the support attachments can include a support-attachment mounting interface that is generally complimentary to the configuration of the box-support mounting interface as discussed above.  FIGS. 35-37  illustrate an example configuration for the mounting interface  628  of the cable support  614  that is generally complimentary to the configuration of the top mounting interface  622 . In some embodiments, a substantially identical configuration can be used for other attachment mounting interfaces, such as the mounting interfaces  626 ,  630 ,  634  illustrated in  FIG. 25  or the mounting interfaces  626   a,    628   a,    630   a,    632   a,    634   a  illustrated in  FIG. 26 . In this way, for example, any of these mounting interfaces can interchangeably engage any one of the top or bottom mounting interfaces  622 ,  624 . In other embodiments, other mounting interfaces with other engagement features can be used on other supports (e.g., other attachments). In some embodiments, multiple mounting interfaces can be included on a single support attachment. 
     In the embodiment illustrated, the mounting interface  628  includes an engagement feature  700  that is generally complimentary to the support feature  680  on the corresponding top mounting interface  622  (see, e.g.,  FIGS. 32-34 ). Also as illustrated, the engagement feature  700  includes multiple distinct types of interface features. For example, each of the engagement features  700  includes first interface arms  702 , second interface arms  704 , insertion tabs  706 , a second support surface  708  and a third support surface  710 . As discussed in further detail below, the first and second interface arms  702 ,  704  are configured for interleaved engagement with the corresponding support feature  680 , at the first and second side walls  682 ,  684 , respectively, the insertion tabs  706  are configured to be inserted into the corresponding insertion slots  692 , and the second and third support surfaces  708 ,  710  are configured to engage the corresponding first support surface  686 . In other embodiments, other configurations are possible. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the engagement feature  700  includes three first interface arms  702  and two second interface arms  704 . The second interface arms  704  are positioned proximate opposite, lateral ends of the engagement feature  700 . The first interface arms  702  are positioned along the lateral length of the engagement feature  700  between the two interface arms  704 , with a respective one of the first interface arms  702  being positioned proximate each of the second interface arms  704  and a wider one of the first interface arms  702  being positioned at a generally central position of the lateral length of the engagement feature  700 , between the insertion tabs  706 . 
     In the embodiment illustrated, each of the first interface arms  702  includes a first vertical section  716  and a first horizontal section  718  (see  FIG. 36 ) extending between the first vertical section  716  and a first face  720  of the cable support  614 . Similarly, the second interface arm  704  includes a second vertical section  722  and a second horizontal section  724  (see  FIG. 36 ) extending between the second vertical section  722  and a second face  726  of the cable support  614  that is opposite the first face  720 . Each of the first and second horizontal surfaces  718 ,  724  are generally perpendicular to the first and second faces  720 ,  726  of the cable support  614 , and each of the first and second vertical surfaces  716 ,  722  are generally parallel to the first and second faces  720 ,  726  and protrude downwardly from the first and second vertical surfaces  716 ,  722 , respectively. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the first horizontal sections  718  extend a greater distance from the first face  720  of the cable support  614  than the second horizontal sections  724  extend from the second face  726  of the cable support  614 . More particularly, the first and second horizontal sections  718 ,  724  are dimensioned so that, when the engagement feature  700  is engaging the support feature  680  (as described in further detail below), the first and second vertical sections  716 ,  722  abut the first and second side walls  682 ,  684 , respectively, and the first face  720  is substantially aligned (e.g., generally coplanar) with the mounting face  688  (see, e.g.,  FIGS. 32 and 40 ). 
     In other embodiments, the first and second horizontal sections  718 ,  724  may have other configurations. For example, the first and second horizontal sections  718 ,  724  can be dimensioned so that the first horizontal section  718  is longer than the second horizontal section  724 , and so the second face  726  is generally coplanar with the mounting face  688 . 
     Other embodiments of the engagement feature can be configured with different angular relationships between various sections  716 ,  718 ,  722 ,  724  of the interface arms  702 ,  704  and the faces  720 ,  726  of said engagement feature  700 . Further, some embodiments can include additional first or second interface arms  702 ,  704 , fewer first or second interface arms  702 ,  704 , or the same number of first or second interface arms  702 ,  704  as the illustrated embodiment. Some embodiments can be configured with alternative positions for at least one of the first or second interface arms  702 ,  704 . In some embodiments, at least two first interface arms  702  or at least two second interface arms  704  can be formed by a single continuous feature. In some embodiments, other, differently configured interface arms can be used. 
     Generally, support surfaces on complementary mounting interfaces can be engaged to block movement of the associated supports in a particular direction. In different embodiments, support surfaces, such as the second support surface  708  and the third support surface  710 , can be provided by different portions of an engagement feature, such as the engagement feature  700 . In the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 35-37 , for example, the second support surface  708  is provided by the lower portion of the second horizontal sections  724  of the interface arms  704 , and the third support surface  710  is provided by the lower portion of the first horizontal sections  718  of the interface arms  702 . In another embodiment, the second and third support surfaces  708 ,  710  can be provided by alternative portions of the engagement feature  700 , or an additional structure not illustrated herein. 
     With continued reference to  FIGS. 35-37 , the illustrated embodiment of the engagement feature  700  includes two of the insertion tabs  706 , positioned on either side of the central first interface arm  702 . The position of each of the insertion tabs  706  corresponds to the position of a corresponding insertion slot  692  on the support feature  680 . Further, the insertion tabs  706  are substantially in-line with the body of the cable support  614 , so that a first face  728  and a second face  730  of each insertion tab  706  is generally coplanar with the first face  720  and second face  726  of the cable support  614 , and each extend downwardly therefrom. This may be useful, for example, to provide relatively substantial rigidity to the cable support  614  overall, when secured to a box support using the engagement feature  700 . 
     In some embodiments, the engagement feature  700  can include more insertion tabs  706  or fewer insertion tabs  706  than the illustrated embodiment. The insertion tabs  706  can also have alternative positions along the lateral length of the engagement feature  700  and can be out of alignment with the body of the cable support  614 . 
     In some embodiments, a locking feature can be included to oppose movement opposite to the movement opposed by the engagement of support surfaces (e.g., as described above). In the embodiment illustrated, for example, the engagement feature  700  includes multiple locking protrusions  732  protruding from the insertion tab  706 . In other embodiments, a similar or other locking protrusion can alternatively (or additionally) be included on the first interface arm  702 , the second interface arm  704 , or another portion of the engagement feature  700 . 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the first face  728  of each insertion tab  706  includes a locking protrusion  732  extending therefrom. Each locking protrusion  732  corresponds to a corresponding one of the locking openings  690  on the support feature  680  (see, e.g.,  FIG. 33 ) and is configured to engage said locking opening  690  when the insertion tab  706  is inserted into the corresponding insertion slot  692 . In embodiments for which a differently configured locking protrusion is provided, a locking opening on the support feature  680  can be correspondingly different than the locking openings  690 . 
     In other embodiments, at least one locking protrusion can be coupled to alternative portions of an engagement feature. For example, in some embodiments, at least one of the first interface arms  702  can include a locking protrusion  644  configured to engage a locking opening  690  formed in the first support wall  682 . Further at least one of the second interface arms  704  can include a locking protrusion  644  configured to engage a locking opening  690  formed in the second side wall  684 . The locking protrusion  732  can also protrude from at least one of the first face  720  or the second face  726  of the engagement feature  700 . 
     In some embodiments, a locking protrusion can be formed on a mounting interface similar to the mounting interfaces  622 ,  624  and a locking opening can be formed on a mounting interface similar to the mounting interfaces  630 ,  634 , etc. In some embodiments, locking protrusions and openings can be formed on particular mounting interfaces, including mounting interfaces similar to those expressly described above. 
       FIGS. 38-40  illustrate an example process of manually engaging the engagement features  700  of the mounting interface  628  with the support features  680  of the top mounting interface  622  in order to securely attach the cable support  614  to the box support  602  without requiring the use of tools. In some embodiments, a floor stand, such as the floor stand  620 , or another support, can be similarly secured to a support such as the box support  602  in the same, or a similar, manner. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 38 , to secure the cable support  614  to the box support  602 , the respective mounting interfaces  622 ,  628  can first be generally aligned with each other. In some embodiments, visual alignment of the insertion slot  692  and the insertion tab  706  can assist in this regard. In some embodiments, for example, a visual alignment indicator  750  disposed on at least one of the cable support  614  or the box support  602  can be used to aid in alignment. 
     Once the mounting interfaces  622 ,  628  are appropriately aligned, the cable support  614  can be moved (e.g., translated) into physical engagement with the box support  602  (or vice versa). With appropriate alignment, this can cause the engagement feature  700  to engage in interleaved contact with the support feature  680  in order to provide a relatively stable connection between the cable support  614  and the box support  602 . 
     For example, in the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 39 and 40 , the second support surface  708  and the third support surface  710  (see  FIG. 40 ) engage the first support surface  686  to oppose vertically downward local movement of the cable support  614  relative to the box support  602 . The first vertical sections  716  of the first interface arms  702  engage the outwardly facing side of the first side wall  682 . Similarly, the second vertical sections  722  of the second interface arms  704  engage the outwardly facing side of the second side wall  684 . Engagement of the first and second side walls  682 ,  684  by the first and second vertical sections  716 ,  722 , respectively, opposes horizontal local movement of the cable support  614  relative to the box support  602 . 
     Further, the insertion tab  706  is received by the insertion slot  692  and generally engages an inwardly facing side of the first side wall  682  opposite the outwardly facing side, thereby further opposing horizontal local movement of the engagement feature  700  relative to the support feature  680 . When the insertion tab  706  is inserted into the insertion slot  692 , the locking protrusion  732  extends into the locking opening  690 , thereby securing the cable support  614  to the box support  602  and opposing at least upward vertical motion of the cable support  614  relative to the box support  602 . 
     In this way, an interleaved engagement is obtained, substantially reducing wobble or other undesired displacement (e.g., rotation) of the cable support  614  and the box support  602  relative to each other. The engagement of the support feature  680  and the engagement feature  700  provides a secure connection between the cable support  614  and the box support  602 , allowing for installation of the box support  602  and the cable support  614  as an integrated system. As also noted above, similar support and engagement features  680 ,  700  on the mounting interfaces  622 ,  624 ,  626 ,  628 ,  630 ,  634  can allow for box support system  600  to be readily manually assembled (see, e.g.,  FIG. 25 ) for integrated installation. 
     In other embodiments, other configurations are possible. For example, the support feature  680  (or an alternative embodiment thereof) can be provided on at least one support-attachment mounting interface, and the engagement feature  700  (or an alternative embodiment thereof) can be provided on the corresponding box-support mounting interface. Similarly, although embodiments herein include substantially identical mounting interfaces arrayed along a particular body (e.g., box support), bodies according to some embodiments can include different configurations of mounting interfaces. 
       FIGS. 41 and 42  illustrate example configurations of the cable supports  614  and  616 , respectively. Generally, each of the cable supports  614 ,  616  includes a similar configuration for the associated mounting interfaces  628 ,  630 . As such, for example, the cable supports  614 ,  616  can be securely and interchangeably engaged with the box support  602  (or other supports) in alignment with an appropriate electrical box. 
     In some embodiments, it may be useful for cable supports to exhibit different arrangements depending on the size of electrical box with which the cable supports are to be used. In the embodiment illustrated, for example, the cable support  614  is configured for use with 4″ electrical boxes and the cable support  616  is configured for use with 4 11/16″ and 5″ electrical boxes. In this regard, for example, a spacing of 2.45″ can be provided between outer cable openings  734  on the cable support  614  and a spacing of 2.9″ can be provided between outer cable openings  736  on the cable support  616 . Each of the cable supports  614 ,  616  is configured to be bent at perforated bend lines  738 ,  740  for use with 2⅛″, 1½″ electrical box heights, and at perforated bend line  742  for use with a 2⅞″ electrical box height. 
     Generally, cable supports according to embodiments of the invention can be configured to accommodate a variety of components, including cables, conduits, and other components configured to enclose electrical conductors. For example, each of the cable openings  734 ,  736  is generally configured to accommodate MC/AC cable, as needed. Further, each of the cable openings  734 ,  736  on the cable supports  614 ,  616  include punch-outs  744 ,  746  in order to accommodate ½″ and ¾″ conduit, respectively. 
     In some embodiments, a support attachment for a box support system can include a floor stand that can be used to secure a box support at a particular height relative to the ground. An example configuration for the floor stand  620  is illustrated in detail in  FIGS. 43-45 . Generally, the floor stand  620  includes a base portion  770 , the mounting interface  634 , and an extension portion  772  extending upward from the base portion  770  to the mounting interface  634 . 
     In the embodiment illustrated, the mounting interface  634  includes engagement feature  700 , and is configured to engage a bottom mounting interface  624  as described in detail above. The bottom end of the base portion  770  includes a foot flange  774  for footed support of the floor stand  620 , as well as clasping tabs  776  configured for interleaved engagement of a floor structure (e.g., a metal floor stud). The extension portion  772  includes two vertical channels  780  configured to provide structural reinforcement to the floor stand  620 . The extension also includes four cutouts  782  spaced along the vertical length of the extension portion and extending therethrough. In other embodiments, other configurations are possible. 
     In some embodiments, the floor stand  620  can include other features. For example, as illustrated in  FIG. 44  in particular, the base portion  770  of the floor stand  620  includes a cut-out  816  configured to accommodate passage of a conduit, such as a ½″ or a ¾″ rigid conduit  818 , that extends from an electrical box (e.g., the electrical box  606  (see  FIG. 25 )). In other arrangements, other sizes of conduit or other components can be similarly accommodated. 
     As another example, as illustrated in  FIG. 45  in particular, a finder tab  820  is included between the clasping tabs  776  on the base portion  770  of the floor stand  620 . During installation, a user can deform the finder tab  820  to extend perpendicularly to the base portion  770 , in order to extend past drywall that is to be installed in front of the floor stand  620 . This may be useful, for example, in order to help users to identify the location of the floor stand  620  behind the drywall and, correspondingly, to identify appropriate locations to cut through the drywall to reach electrical boxes supported by the floor stand  620  (e.g., via the box support  602 ). In some embodiments, the finder tab  820  can be 1.45″ long or longer, in order to appropriately extend past installed drywall. 
     Thus, embodiments of the inventions provide improved support systems for electrical boxes. In some embodiments, for example, mounting interfaces on separate supports can provide for interchangeable, manually installable, nested, and interleaved engagement in order to securely hold the supports together in an integrated assembly. Thus, for example, a support feature and corresponding engagement feature can provide a stable connection between support attachments and the box support. This can be useful, for example, in order to improve the speed, repeatability, and quality of installation of electrical components. 
     The previous description of the disclosed embodiments is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to make or use the invention. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Thus, the invention is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown herein but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein.