Patent Publication Number: US-11396897-B2

Title: Band clamp

Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Field of the Invention 
     The present invention is directed generally to band clamps. 
     Description of the Related Art 
     A band clamp is used to clamp ends of a band together about one or more other objects. For example, one or more bands each secured by a different band clamp may be used to clamp staves of a hot tub together. There is a need for new and/or improved band clamp designs. The present application provides these and other advantages as will be apparent from the following detailed description and accompanying figures. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING(S) 
         FIG. 1  is a top perspective view of a back portion of a first embodiment of a lug of a band clamp. 
         FIG. 2  is a bottom perspective view of a front portion of the lug of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 3  is a side elevational view of the lug of  FIG. 1  placed on a flat surface. 
         FIG. 4  is an exploded perspective view of the lug of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 5  is a side elevational view of the lug of  FIG. 1  attached to a threaded rod and a band that is wrapped around one or more objects. 
         FIG. 6  is a side elevational view of a band clamp that includes a pair of lugs each like the lug of  FIG. 1 , the threaded rod, a pair of washers, and a pair of nuts. 
         FIG. 7  is a top perspective view of the band clamp of  FIG. 6 . 
         FIG. 8  is a side perspective view of the band clamp of  FIG. 6  illustrated with wrenches being used to tighten the nuts. 
         FIG. 9  is a top perspective view of a back portion of a second embodiment of a lug. 
         FIG. 10  is a bottom perspective view of a front portion of the lug of  FIG. 9 . 
         FIG. 11  is a back view of the lug of  FIG. 9 . 
         FIG. 12  is a side elevational view of the lug of  FIG. 9  placed on the flat surface. 
         FIG. 13  is a front view of the lug of  FIG. 9 . 
         FIG. 14  is a cross-sectional view of the lug of  FIG. 9  taken through a line  14 - 14  illustrated in  FIG. 13 . 
         FIG. 15  is the cross-sectional view of  FIG. 14  with the lug attached to the threaded rod and the band that is wrapped around the object(s). 
         FIG. 16  is a side elevational view of a band clamp that includes a pair of lugs each like the lug of  FIG. 9 , the threaded rod, the pair of washers, and the pair of nuts. 
     
    
    
     Like reference numerals have been used in the figures to identify like components. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
       FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a lug  100  having a front portion  102  opposite a back portion  104 . A longitudinal dimension “L 1 ” extends between the front and back portions  102  and  104 . The lug  100  includes a rod receiving portion or barrel  106  connected to a band receiving portion or a base portion  108 . 
     The barrel  106  is positioned at or near the front portion  102  of the lug  100 . Referring to  FIG. 2 , the barrel  106  has a distal portion  107  opposite a proximal portion  109 . The proximal portion  109  is closer to the base portion  108  than the distal portion  107 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 1 , the barrel  106  has a front facing surface  114  (see  FIG. 2 ) opposite a back facing surface  116 . Referring to  FIG. 2 , in the embodiment illustrated, the front facing surface  114  is positioned at the front portion  102  and the back facing surface  116  (see  FIGS. 1, 3, and 5 ) is spaced apart from the back portion  104 . Thus, the barrel  106  is closer to the front portion  102  than the back portion  104 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 1 , the barrel  106  has an open-ended through-channel  110  that extends along the longitudinal dimension “L 1 .” Referring to  FIG. 4 , in the embodiment illustrated, the through-channel  110  has a generally circular cross-sectional shape with an inner diameter “D 1 ” (e.g., about 0.44 inches). As shown in  FIG. 5 , the through-channel  110  is configured to allow a threaded rod  112  with outside threads  230  to pass therethrough. Referring to  FIG. 4 , in the embodiment illustrated, the barrel  106  is substantially cylindrically shaped with an outer diameter “D 2 ” (e.g., about 0.69 inches). However, this is not a requirement. 
     Referring to  FIG. 1 , the barrel  106  may have a length “B 1 ” along the longitudinal dimension “L 1 .” By way of a non-limiting example, the length “B 1 ” may be about 0.94 inches. By way of another non-limiting example, the length “B 1 ” of the barrel  106  may greater than about 0.5 inches. 
     The base portion  108  includes first and second side rails  120  and  122  that extend along the longitudinal dimension “L 1 ” and have a length “B 3 ” (see  FIG. 4 ) along the longitudinal dimension “L 1 .” Referring to  FIG. 4 , by way of a non-limiting example, the length “B 3 ” may be about 2.5 inches. The first and second side rails  120  and  122  may be substantially identical to one another and each have a lower edge  123 . In the embodiment illustrated, the lower edges  123  of the first and second side rails  120  and  122  are each substantially planar. However, in alternate embodiments, the lower edges  123  may be curved (e.g., to correspond to an outer surface of one or more objects  204 , illustrated in  FIGS. 5, 7, 8, 15, and 16 , against which the lower edges  123  of the lug  100  may be positioned). 
     Referring to  FIG. 1 , the first and second side rails  120  and  122  support a transverse platform  124  positioned at or near the front portion  102  of the lug  100 . The barrel  106  is positioned upon and attached to the platform  124 . The platform  124  may be substantially planer and have a generally rectangular shape. The platform  124  extends from the front portion  102  only partway toward the back portion  104 . Thus, the platform  124  has a backward facing edge  126  spaced apart from the back portion  104 . An open portion  128  is defined between the first and second side rails  120  and  122 , the backward facing edge  126 , and the back portion  104 . 
     In the embodiment illustrated, the platform  124  is positioned on top of the first and second side rails  120  and  122 . Referring to  FIG. 4 , also in the embodiment illustrated, the first and second side rails  120  and  122  each have a first cutout portion  130  formed along their upper edges. The platform  124  is positioned within and attached to the first cutout portions  130  of the first and second side rails  120  and  122 . In alternate embodiments, the platform  124  may be configured to be positioned in between the first and second side rails  120  and  122  and the first cutout portions  130  may be omitted from the first and second side rails  120  and  122 . In such embodiments, the platform  124  may be attached along its side edges “E 1 ” and “E 2 ” to inwardly facing surfaces “S 1 ” and “S 2 ,” respectively, of the first and second side rails  120  and  122 , respectively. 
     Referring to  FIG. 2 , in the front portion  102  and under the platform  124 , the first and second side rails  120  and  122  are connected together by a transverse front or head cross member  140 . The first and second side rails  120  and  122  each have an end portion  146  at the front portion  102 . The head cross member  140  is spaced apart from the platform  124  by the end portions  146  of the first and second side rails  120  and  122 . Thus, a gap  142  is defined between the platform  124  and the head cross member  140 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 4 , the head cross member  140  may be substantially rectangular in shape and have a length “B 4 ” oriented transverse to the longitudinal dimension “L 1 ” (see  FIG. 1 ). By way of a non-limiting example, the length “B 4 ” may be about 1.74 inches. The head cross member  140  may have a substantially square cross-sectional shape along the longitudinal dimension “L 1 ” (see  FIG. 1 ). Thus, the height and width of the head cross member  140  may be substantially equal (e.g., each about 0.19 inches). In alternate embodiments, the head cross member  140  may have a substantially rectangular cross-sectional shape that is longer along the longitudinal dimension “L 1 ” (see  FIG. 1 ). By way of a non-limiting example, the height of the head cross member  140  may be about 0.19 inches and the width of the head cross member  140  may be about 1.0 inch. 
     Referring to  FIG. 4 , in the embodiment illustrated, the first and second side rails  120  and  122  each have a second cutout portion  144  formed along their lower edges at their end portions  146 . The head cross member  140  is positioned within and attached to the second cutout portions  144  of the first and second side rails  120  and  122 . In alternate embodiments, the second cutout portions  144  may be omitted from the first and second side rails  120  and  122  and the head cross member  140  may be configured to be positioned in between the first and second side rails  120  and  122 . In such embodiments, the head cross member  140  may be attached along its side edges “E 3 ” and “E 4 ” to the inwardly facing surfaces “S 1 ” and “S 2 ,” respectively, of the first and second side rails  120  and  122 , respectively, at the front portion  102  (see  FIGS. 1-3 and 5 ) of the lug  100 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 2 , in the back portion  104 , the first and second side rails  120  and  122  are connected together by a transverse back or tail cross member  160 . In the embodiment illustrated, the tail cross member  160  has a substantially T-shaped outer shape with an upper portion  163  positioned above a lower portion  164 . In alternate embodiments, the tail cross member  160  may have a substantially rectangular outer shape. Referring to  FIG. 4 , in the embodiment illustrated, the first and second side rails  120  and  122  each have a third cutout portion  162  formed along their lower edges at the back portion  104  (see  FIGS. 1-3 and 5 ) of the lug  100 . The upper portion  163  of the tail cross member  160  is positioned within and attached to the third cutout portions  162  of the first and second side rails  120  and  122 . In alternate embodiments, the third cutout portions  162  may be omitted from the first and second side rails  120  and  122  and the tail cross member  160  may have a substantially rectangular outer shape configured to be positioned in between the first and second side rails  120  and  122 . In such embodiments, the tail cross member  160  may be attached along its side edges “E 5 ” and “E 6 ” to the inwardly facing surfaces “S 1 ” and “S 2 ,” respectively, of the first and second side rails  120  and  122 , respectively, at the back portion  104  (see  FIGS. 1-3 and 5 ) of the lug  100 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 5 , the gap  142  (see  FIG. 2 ) is configured to allow a band  150  to pass therethrough. Thus, the lug  100  has a passageway that includes the gap  142  and allows the band  150  to travel over both the head and tail cross members  140  and  160 . The band  150  wraps partway around the head cross member  140  after traveling over the head cross member  140 . Then, the band  150  travels under both the head and tail cross members  140  and  160  along the outer surface of the object(s)  204 . Thus, as shown in  FIG. 5 , the head and tail cross members  140  and  160  both rest upon the band  150 . As shown in  FIG. 2 , the proximal portion  109  of the barrel  106  is closer to the passageway than the distal portion  107  of the barrel  106 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 2 , the lower portion  164  of the tail cross member  160  extends outwardly beyond the first and second side rails  120  and  122  (e.g., about 0.19 inches). Thus, referring to  FIG. 3 , when the base portion  108  of the lug  100  is positioned on a flat surface  170 , the lower portion  164  of the tail cross member  160  will position the first and second side rails  120  and  122  (see  FIGS. 1, 2, and 4 ) to extend at an angle “A 1 ” with respect to the flat surface  170 . By way of a non-limiting example, the angle “A 1 ” may range from about 3 degrees to about 6 degrees. For example, the angle “A 1 ” may be a little greater than 4 degrees (e.g., about 4.29 degrees, about 4.35 degrees, and the like). By way of another non-limiting example, the angle “A 1 ” may be within a range from 4 degrees to 5 degrees. By way of yet another non-limiting example, the angle “A 1 ” (see  FIG. 3 ) may range from 3 degrees to 9 degrees. Referring to  FIG. 5 , the angle “A 1 ” (see  FIG. 3 ) may vary depending upon a diameter of the object(s)  204  being secured by the band  150 . For example, if the lug  100  is used to secure the band  150  around a pole (not shown) with a diameter of about 12 inches, the angle “A 1 ” (see  FIG. 3 ) may be as great as 9 degrees. In such an application, the lug  100  may be smaller and the length “B 3 ” (see  FIG. 4 ) shorter. The angle “A 1 ” (see  FIG. 3 ) may help maintain the lug  100  in a substantially tangential orientation when the lug  100  is positioned against the object(s)  204  and the object(s)  204  (e.g., a round traffic pole or standard) have a round cross-sectional shape with a rounded outer surface. Referring to  FIG. 5 , the angle “A 1 ” (see  FIG. 3 ) may also help offset any forward tipping of the lug  100  and help maintain pressure on the object(s)  204  (see  FIGS. 5, 7, 8, 15, and 16 ) under the lug  100 . This may help in applications in which a portion  152  of the band  150  connected to the lug  100  or positioned near the lug  100  does not physically contact the object(s)  204 . The portion of the band  150  may be positioned above (or be raised away from) the object(s)  204  in part by the tail cross member  160 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 3 , the lower portion  164  of the tail cross member  160  positions the through-channel  110  of the barrel  106  to extend along an angle “A 2 ” with respect to the flat surface  170 . In  FIG. 3 , the through-channel  110  extends along a central axis represented by a dashed line  138 . Thus, the dashed line  138  extends along the angle “A 2 ” with respect to the flat surface  170 . In the embodiment illustrated, the angles “A 1 ” and “A 2 ” are substantially identical. Thus, in this orientation, the through-channel  110  of the barrel  106  may slant downwardly toward the front portion  102  of the lug  100 . The angle “A 2 ” may help maintain the through-channel  110  in a substantially flat orientation when the lug  100  is positioned against a rounded outer surface of the object(s)  204  (see  FIGS. 5, 7, 8, 15, and 16 ). 
     As shown in  FIG. 1 , the length “B 1 ” of the barrel  106  may be shorter (e.g., by about 0.06 inches) than a length “B 2 ” of the platform  124  along the longitudinal dimension “L 1 .” Referring to  FIG. 3 , an angle “A 3 ” (e.g., a little greater than 4 degrees) may be defined between the back facing surface  116  of the barrel  106  and a dashed line  186  that extends from the top of the back facing surface  116  of the barrel  106  and the top of the backward facing edge  126  of the platform  124 . By way of a non-limiting example, the angle “A 3 ” may range from about 3 degrees to about 6 degrees. For example, the angle “A 3 ” may be a little greater than 4 degrees (e.g., about 4.29 degrees, about 4.35 degrees, and the like). By way of another non-limiting example, the angle “A 3 ” may be within a range from 4 degrees to 5 degrees. By way of yet another non-limiting example, the angle “A 3 ” may range from 3 degrees to 9 degrees. 
     Referring to  FIG. 5 , the threaded rod  112  is operable to apply a vector tightening force to the lug  100 . As will be explained below, a washer  180  may be placed alongside the back facing surface  116  of the barrel  106 . However, a lower portion  182  of the washer  180  will abut the backward facing edge  126  of the platform  124  and an upper portion  184  of the washer  180  will be spaced apart from the back facing surface  116  of the barrel  106 . A nut  190  with inside threads  192  (see  FIG. 15 ) configured to mate with the outside threads  230  of the threaded rod  112  is threaded onto the threaded rod  112 . The nut  190  is tightened against and applies the vector tightening force to the washer  180 . The washer  180  directly applies the vector tightening force to the backward facing edge  126  of the platform  124  (or the lowest point possible), which pushes the front portion  102  of the lug  100  forwardly and outwardly away from the object(s)  204 . This arrangement reduces the tendency of the front portion  102  of the lug  100  to tip toward the object(s)  204 , which can bend the threaded rod  112  and/or cause the threaded rod  112  to bind as it moves. In other words, because the vector tightening force is directed at the backward facing edge  126  of the platform  124  (beneath the barrel  106 ) and not to the barrel  106 , the tipping aspect of the vector tightening force (created by tightening the nut  190 ) is reduced. 
     In alternate embodiments, the lower portion  182  of the washer  180  may abut both the backward facing edge  126  of the platform  124  and the back facing surface  116  along the proximal portion  109  (see  FIG. 2 ). However, in such embodiments, the upper portion  184  of the washer  180  is spaced apart from the back facing surface  116  along the distal portion  107  (see  FIG. 2 ). 
     Referring to  FIG. 2 , together the first side rail  120 , the second side rail  122 , the head cross member  140 , and the tail cross member  160  define a generally rectangular outer shape having the length “B 3 ” (see  FIG. 4 ) and a width equal to the length “B 4 ” (see  FIG. 4 ). The length “B 1 ” of the barrel  106  relative to the length “B 3 ” (see  FIG. 4 ) of the lug  100  and the position of the barrel  106  relative to the base portion  108  decreases the vector tightening force applied to the front portion  102  of the lug  100  by the threaded rod  112  (see  FIGS. 5, 7, 8, 15, and 16 ), making the lug  100  less likely to tip forward when the threaded nut  190  (see  FIG. 5 ) is tightened against the washer  180  (see  FIG. 5 ) on the threaded rod  112 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 5 , the band  150  passes over the tail cross member  160  and exerts pressure on the back portion  104  of the lug  100  when the nut  190  is tightened against the washer  180 . That pressure either prevents the back portion  104  of the lug  100  from rising, which tilts the lug  100  forwardly toward the object(s)  204 , or reduces an amount by which the back portion  104  of the lug  100  will rise and tilt the lug  100  forwardly toward the object(s)  204 . The greater the length “B 3 ” (see  FIG. 4 ) of the lug  100 , the greater the lever force of the band  150  pressing down on the tail cross member  160 , which reduces tilting. Therefore, the length “B 3 ” (see  FIG. 4 ) and/or the position of the tail cross member  160  may be determined at least in part based on whether the lug  100  tilts toward the object(s)  204 . 
     Further, increasing a distance between the front portion  102  and the back facing surface  116  of the barrel  106  decreases the vector tightening force applied to the front portion  102  by the threaded rod  112 , which makes it less likely that the lug  100  will tip forwardly (causing the back portion  104  to lift in the direction of the threaded rod  112 ) when the threaded rod  112  is tightened. Referring to  FIG. 1 , in the lug  100 , the distance between the front portion  102  and the back facing surface  116  is equal to the length “B 1 .” Thus, by increasing the length “B 1 ,” it may be possible to reduce the likelihood that the lug  100  will tip forwardly. Therefore, the length “B 1 ” (see  FIG. 1 ) may be determined at least in part based on whether the lug  100  tilts toward the object(s)  204 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 4 , the lug  100  may be constructed from stainless steel (e.g., 316 stainless steel) aluminum, and the like. The barrel  106 , the platform  124 , the first side rail  120 , the second side rail  122 , the head cross member  140 , and the tail cross member  160  may be coupled together to form the lug  100  using any suitable method, including welding. Thus, the lug  100  may be constructed using fabrication techniques. 
       FIG. 6  illustrates an embodiment of a band clamp  200  clamping the band  150  into a closed shape  202  (e.g., a ring). For example, referring to  FIG. 8 , the closed shape  202  (see  FIG. 6 ) may be used to clamp staves  260  of a hot tub together. In such embodiments, the band  150  maintains even pressure on each of the staves  260 . 
       FIG. 7  illustrates the band clamp  200  clamping the band  150  around the object(s)  204  (e.g., the staves  260  illustrated in  FIGS. 8 and 16 ). The band clamp  200  includes a first lug  100 A, a second lug  100 B, the threaded rod  112 , and one or more fasteners  210 . The first and second lugs  100 A and  100 B are each substantially identical to the lug  100  (see  FIGS. 1-5 ). Therefore, in the drawings, like reference numerals have been used to identify like components of the lugs  100 ,  100 A, and  100 B. 
     In the embodiment illustrated, the fasteners  210  have been implemented as nuts  212  and  214  and washers  216  and  218 . The nuts  212  and  214  are each substantially identical to the nut  190  (see  FIG. 5 ) and the washers  216  and  218  are each substantially identical to the washer  180  (see  FIG. 5 ). 
     The band  150  has a first end  220  opposite a second end  222 . By way of a non-limiting example, the band  150  may have a width of about 0.75 inches to about 1.25 inches. The band  150  is formed into the closed shape  202  (see  FIG. 6 ) by connecting the first and second ends  220  and  222  to the first and second lugs  100 A and  1006 , respectively. Then, the first and second lugs  100 A and  1006  are coupled together by the threaded rod  112  and the fasteners  210 . 
     The first end  220  of the band  150  is connected to the first lug  100 A by passing the first end  220  over the tail cross member  160  of the first lug  100 A, passing the first end  220  through the open portion  128 , passing the first end  220  under the platform  124 , and inserting the first end  220  through the gap  142  (see  FIG. 2 ) of the first lug  100 A. Then, the first end  220  is bent around the head cross member  140  (see  FIGS. 1-5 ) of the first lug  100 A and directed backwardly under the tail cross member  160  of the first lug  100 A. As shown in  FIG. 7 , the first end  220  may be positioned behind the first lug  100 A. Similarly, the second end  222  of the band  150  is connected to the second lug  1006  by passing the second end  222  over the tail cross member  160  of the second lug  1006 , passing the second end  222  through the open portion  128 , passing the first end  220  under the platform  124 , and inserting the second end  222  through the gap  142  (see  FIG. 2 ) of the second lug  1006 . Then, the second end  222  is bent around the head cross member  140  (see  FIGS. 1-5 ) of the second lug  100 B and directed backwardly under the tail cross member  160 . As shown in  FIG. 7 , the second end  222  may be positioned behind the second lug  1006 . Thus, the first and second lugs  100 A and  1006  do not have to be welded to the band  150  to form the closed shape  202  (see  FIG. 6 ). 
     As mentioned above, the first and second lugs  100 A and  1006  are coupled together by the threaded rod  112  and the fasteners  210 . The first and second lugs  100 A and  1006  are positioned so that their front portions  102  are aligned with one another and the threaded rod  112  is inserted into the barrels  106  of the first and second lugs  100 A and  1006 . The threaded rod  112  has a first end  240  opposite a second end  242 . The first end  240  extends outwardly from the barrel  106  of the first lug  100 A and the second end  242  extends outwardly from the barrel  106  of the second lug  1006 . 
     The fasteners  210  couple the first end  240  to the first lug  100 A. First, the washer  216  is positioned on the first end  240  of the threaded rod  112 . The washer  216  is slid along the threaded rod  112  until the washer  216  abuts the backward facing edge  126  of the platform  124  of the first lug  100 A. In the embodiment illustrated, the outside threads  230  of the threaded rod  112  are configured to mate with inside threads (substantially identical to the inside threads  192  illustrated in  FIG. 15 ) of the nut  212 . Next, the nut  212  is positioned on the first end  240  of the threaded rod  112  and threaded along the threaded rod  112  until the nut  212  is positioned alongside the washer  216 . Finally, referring to  FIG. 8 , the nut  212  (see  FIGS. 7 and 16 ) is tightened as desired (e.g., using a wrench  250 ). 
     Likewise, referring to  FIG. 7 , the fasteners  210  couple the second end  242  to the second lug  1006 . First, the washer  218  is positioned on the second end  242  of the threaded rod  112 . The washer  218  is slid along the threaded rod  112  until the washer  218  abuts the backward facing edge  126  of the platform  124  of the second lug  1006 . In the embodiment illustrated, the outside threads  230  of the threaded rod  112  are configured to mate with inside threads (substantially identical to the inside threads  192  illustrated in  FIG. 15 ) of the nut  214 . Next, the nut  214  is positioned on the second end  242  and threaded along the threaded rod  112  until the nut  214  is positioned alongside the washer  218 . Finally, referring to  FIG. 8 , the nut  214  (see  FIGS. 7 and 16 ) is tightened as desired (e.g., using a wrench  252 ). 
     Referring to  FIG. 7 , tightening one or both of the nuts  212  and  214  decreases the distance between the first and second lugs  100 A and  1006  and decreases the area of the closed shape  202  (see  FIG. 6 ). Loosening one or both of the nuts  212  and  214  increases the distance between the first and second lugs  100 A and  1006  and increases the area of the closed shape  202  (see  FIG. 6 ). Thus, tightening one or both of the nuts  212  and  214  increases tension in the band  150  when the band  150  is used to clamp the object(s)  204 . On the other hand, loosening one or both of the nuts  212  and  214  decreases the tension in the band  150  when the band  150  is used to clamp the object(s)  204 . 
     As mentioned above, the washer  216  abuts the backward facing edge  126  of the platform  124  of the first lug  100 A. Similarly, the washer  218  abuts the backward facing edge  126  of the platform  124  of the second lugs  100 B. Thus, the forwardly directed vector tightening forces applied to the first and second lugs  100 A and  100 B by the tightening the nuts  212  and  214 , respectively, pushes the front portions  102  of the first and second lugs  100 A and  100 B forwardly but not toward the object(s)  204 . This reduces the tendency of the first and second lugs  100 A and  100 B to tip, which causes their back portions  104  (see  FIGS. 1-5 ) to lift away from the object(s)  204  and can bend the threaded rod  112  and/or bind the threaded rod  112  as the threaded rod  112  moves. In other words, the higher up on the rear facing surfaces  116  of the barrels  106  that the vector tightening forces are applied, the more the first and second lugs  100 A and  100 B will tilt toward the object(s)  204 . Because the vector tightening forces are applied to the lowest point possible along the backward facing edges  126  of the first and second lugs  100 A and  100 B, the first and second lugs  100 A and  100 B avoid tilting. Further, tightening and drawing the first and second lugs  100 A and  100 B forwardly (while avoiding tilting) brings the bottom surfaces of the lugs  100 A and  100 B and the band  150  into tighter and tighter contact with the object(s)  204 , which clamps the object(s)  204  firmly. 
     As mentioned above, the band clamp  200  is configured to help prevent the threaded rod  112  from bending when one or both of the nuts  212  and  214  are tightened. This is achieved because, as explained above, the first and second lugs  100 A and  100 B are each configured to avoid tipping or tilting forwardly when one or both of the nuts  212  and  214  are tightened, which can cause the threaded rod  112  to bend. This allows the first and second lugs  100 A and  100 B to move smoothly when one or both of the nuts  212  and  214  are tightened without the first and second lugs  100 A and  100 B tipping or the threaded rod  112  binding. 
     Referring to  FIG. 5 , the lower portion  164  of the tail cross member  160  is configured to maintain tight contact with the band  150  between the tail cross member  160  and the object(s)  204 . This maintains pressure on any material (e.g., the object(s)  204 ) positioned inside and clamped by the closed shape  202  (see  FIG. 6 ) defined by the band  150 . For example, referring to  FIG. 8 , the object(s)  204  may be the staves  260  of a hot tub and the closed shape  202  (see  FIG. 6 ) may be used to clamp the staves  260  together to form the hot tub. The band  150  may be used to maintain even pressure on each of the staves  260 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 7 , the outside threads  230  of the threaded rod  112  have been illustrated as extending the full length of the threaded rod  112  from the first end  240  to the second end  242 . However, in alternate embodiments, the threaded rod  112  may be implemented as a carriage bolt (e.g., a galvanized carriage bolt) having a bolt head at one of the first and second ends  240  and  242 . Immediately adjacent to the bolt head, the carriage bolt has a bolt section with a generally square cross-sectional shape that functions as a key. In such embodiments, one of the nuts  212  and  214  and one of the washers  216  and  218  may each be omitted. Further, the through-channel  110  (see  FIGS. 1-5 ) of one or both of the first and second lugs  100 A and  1106  may have a square cross-sectional shape that extends from the back facing surface  116  (see  FIGS. 1, 3 , and  5 ) toward the front facing surface  114  (see  FIGS. 2, 3, and 5 ) and functions as a keyway. The keyway is configured to receive and prevent the rotation of the key of the carriage bolt with respect to the barrel  106 . 
     Some or all of the components of the band clamp  200  may be packaged into a first kit. For example, the first kit may include the first and second lugs  100 A and  1006 . Optionally, the first kit may also include the threaded rod  112 , the band  150 , and/or the fasteners  210  (e.g., the nuts  212  and  214  and the washers  216  and  218 ). 
       FIG. 9  is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a lug  300  having a front portion  302  opposite a back portion  304 . The lug  300  may be cast instead of fabricated. For example, the lug  300  may be cast from stainless steel (e.g., 316 stainless steel), aluminum, and the like. A longitudinal dimension “L 2 ” extends the front and back portions  302  and  304 . The lug  300  includes a rod receiving portion or barrel  306  and a band receiving portion or a base portion  308 . 
     The barrel  306  is positioned between the front and back portions  302  and  304  of the lug  300  with the barrel  306  being positioned closer to the front portion  302  than the back portion  304 . The barrel  306  has a front facing surface  312  (see  FIGS. 10 and 12-15 ) opposite a back facing surface  314 . By way of a non-limiting example, the front facing surface  312  (see  FIGS. 10 and 12-15 ) may be spaced apart from the front portion  302  by about 0.5 inches and the back facing surface  314  may be spaced apart from the back portion  304  by about 0.61 inches. In alternate embodiments, the barrel  306  may be positioned midway between the front and back portions  302  and  304 . 
     The barrel  306  has an open-ended through-channel  310  that extends along the longitudinal dimension “L 2 .” The through-channel  310  extends between an opening  316  (see  FIG. 10 ) formed in the front facing surface  312  and an opening  318  formed in both the back facing surface  314 . Referring to  FIG. 14 , in the embodiment illustrated, the through-channel  310  has a generally circular cross-sectional shape with an inner diameter “D 3 ” (e.g., about 0.5 inches). In the embodiment illustrated, referring to  FIG. 11 , the barrel  306  is substantially cylindrically shaped with an outer diameter “D 4 ” (e.g., about 0.84 inches). However, this is not a requirement. As shown in  FIG. 15 , the through-channel  310  is configured to allow the threaded rod  112  to pass therethrough. 
     Referring to  FIG. 9 , the base portion  308  includes first and second side rails  320  and  322  that extend along the longitudinal dimension “L 2 .” Referring to  FIG. 10 , the first and second side rails  320  and  322  may be substantially identical to one another and each have a lower edge  323 . In the embodiment illustrated, the lower edges  323  of the first and second side rails  320  and  322  are each substantially planar. However, in alternate embodiments, the lower edges  323  may be curved (e.g., to correspond to the outer surface of the object(s)  204 , illustrated in  FIGS. 5, 7, 8, 15, and 16 , against which the lower edges  323  of the lug  300  may be positioned). 
     Referring to  FIG. 9 , a first angled support  324  is attached to the first side rail  320  and extends inwardly toward the barrel  306  and outwardly away from the first side rail  320 . A second angled support  326  is attached to the second side rail  322  and extends inwardly toward the barrel  306  and outwardly away from the second side rail  322 . The first and second angled supports  324  and  326  are aligned with one another along the longitudinal dimension “L 2 ” and support the barrel  306  between the first and second side rails  320  and  322 . The first and second angled supports  324  and  326  extend only partway toward the front portion  302  and only partway toward the back portion  304 . Referring to  FIG. 13 , an open portion  327  is defined between the first and second side rails  320  and  322  and in front of the first and second angled supports  324  and  326 . Similarly, referring to  FIG. 11 , an open portion  328  is defined between the first and second side rails  320  and  322  and behind the first and second angled supports  324  and  326 . Thus, the barrel  306  is spaced apart from the base portion  308 . 
     The first and second angled supports  324  and  326  position a distal portion  330  of the barrel  306  above the base portion  308  and a proximal portion  332  of the barrel  306  in between the first and second side rails  320  and  322 . By way of a non-limiting example, referring to  FIG. 14 , the barrel  306  may have a length “B 5 ” at the top of the distal portion  330  and along the longitudinal dimension “L 2 ” (see  FIG. 9 ). Referring to  FIG. 10 , the proximal portion  332  may include a transverse through-hole  334  that extends into the through-channel  310 . For example, if investment casting is used to construct the lug  300 , the transverse through-hole  334  may be included. However, inclusion of the transverse through-hole  334  is not a requirement. Referring to  FIG. 14 , the front and back facing surfaces  312  and  314  (see  FIGS. 12, 14, and 15 ) may be angled such that the length “B 5 ” of the top of the distal portion  330  (see  FIGS. 11, 13 , and  15 ) of the barrel  306  is shorter than a length “B 6 ” (see  FIG. 14 ) of the bottom of the proximal portion  332  of the barrel  306 . 
     As mentioned above, it has been observed that increasing a distance between the front portion  302  and the back facing surface  314  decreases the vector tightening force applied to the front portion  302 , which makes it less likely that the lug  300  will tip forwardly (and lift the back portion  304 ) when the threaded rod  112  is tightened. In the lug  300 , this distance is approximately equal to a sum of the length “B 6 ” and the amount by which the front facing surface  312  of the barrel  306  is spaced apart from the front portion  302  (e.g., about 0.5 inches). By way of a non-limiting example, the length “B 6 ” may be about 1.37 inches. By way of another non-limiting example, the length “B 5 ” may be greater than about 0.5 inches. 
     Referring to  FIG. 10 , in the front portion  302  and in front of the barrel  306 , the first and second side rails  320  and  322  are connected together by a transverse front or head cross member  340 . The head cross member  340  extends from the front portion  302  only partway toward the barrel  306  and only partway toward the first and second angled supports  324  and  326  (see  FIGS. 9, 11, and 14 ). Thus, referring to  FIG. 13 , the open portion  327  extends between the head cross member  340  and the barrel  306  and between the head cross member  340  and the first and second angled supports  324  and  326 . Referring to  FIG. 15 , the open portion  327  is configured to provide a passageway through which the band  150  may pass. 
     Referring to  FIG. 9 , in the back portion  304  and behind the barrel  306 , the first and second side rails  320  and  322  are connected together by a transverse back or tail cross member  360 . The tail cross member  360  extends from the back portion  304  only partway toward the barrel  306  and only partway toward the first and second angled supports  324  and  326 . Thus, the open portion  328  extends between the tail cross member  360  and the barrel  306  and between the tail cross member  360  and the first and second angled supports  324  and  326 . Referring to  FIG. 15 , the open portion  328  is configured to provide a passageway through which the band  150  may pass. 
     Referring to  FIG. 13 , the barrel  306  and the first and second angled supports  324  and  326  are positioned above the head and tail cross members  340  and  360 . Thus, a through-channel or passageway  362  is positioned below the barrel  306  and the first and second angled supports  324  and  326  and above the head and tail cross members  340  and  360  in between the first and second side rails  320  and  322 . Referring to  FIG. 15 , the passageway  362  extends through the open portions  327  and  328  and allows the band  150  to travel over both the head and tail cross members  340  and  360 . The band  150  is wrapped partway around the head cross member  340  after traveling over the head cross member  340 . Then, the band  150  travels under both the head and tail cross members  340  and  360  along the outer surface of the object(s)  204 . Thus, as shown in  FIG. 15 , the head and tail cross members  340  and  360  both rest upon the band  150 . As shown in  FIG. 13 , the proximal portion  332  of the barrel  306  is closer to the passageway  362  than the distal portion  330  of the barrel  306 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 10 , in the embodiment illustrated, an opening  364  is defined by the first side rail  320 , the second side rail  322 , the head cross member  340 , and the tail cross member  360 . However, in alternate embodiments, the opening  364  may be omitted. In such embodiments, the head and tail cross members  340  and  360  may be implemented as a single member that extends from the front portion  302  to the back portion  304 , has a head portion at the front portion  302 , and has a tail portion at the back portion  304 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 12 , when the base portion  308  of the lug  300  is positioned on the flat surface  170 , the first and second angled supports  324  and  326  (see  FIGS. 9, 11, and 14 ) position the through-channel  310  at an angle “A 4 ” with respect to the flat surface  170 . In  FIG. 12 , the through-channel  310  extends along a central axis represented by a dashed line  338 . Thus, the through-channel  310  of the barrel  306  extends along the angle “A 4 ” with respect to the flat surface  170 . By way of a non-limiting example, the angle “A 4 ” may range from about 3 degrees to about 6 degrees. For example, the angle “A 4 ” may be a little greater than 4 degrees (e.g., about 4.29 degrees, about 4.35 degrees, and the like). By way of another non-limiting example, the angle “A 4 ” may be within a range from 4 degrees to 5 degrees. By way of yet another non-limiting example, the angle “A 4 ” (see  FIG. 3 ) may range from 3 degrees to 9 degrees. 
     Referring to  FIG. 14 , an angle “A 6 ” of other than zero degrees (e.g., a little greater than 4 degrees) is defined between the back facing surface  314  of the barrel  306  and a dashed line  366 . The dashed line  366  intersects the back facing surface  314  and is perpendicular to the dashed line  338  (which represents the central axis of the through-channel  310 ). In other words, the back facing surface  314  may be other than perpendicular with respect to the dashed line  338 . By way of a non-limiting example, the angle “A 6 ” may range from about 3 degrees to about 6 degrees. For example, the angle “A 6 ” may be a little greater than 4 degrees (e.g., about 4.29 degrees, about 4.35 degrees, and the like). By way of another non-limiting example, the angle “A 6 ” may be within a range from 4 degrees to 5 degrees. By way of yet another non-limiting example, the angle “A 6 ” (see  FIG. 3 ) may range from 3 degrees to 9 degrees. 
     Referring to  FIG. 15 , the threaded rod  112  is operable to apply the vector tightening force to the lug  300 . The washer  180  may be placed alongside the back facing surface  314  of the barrel  306 . However, only the lower portion  182  of the washer  180  will abut the back facing surface  314  along the proximal portion  332  and the upper portion  184  of the washer  180  will be spaced apart from the back facing surface  314  of the barrel  306  along the distal portion  330 . The nut  190  is threaded onto the threaded rod  112 . The nut  190  is tightened against and applies the vector tightening force to the washer  180 . The washer  180  applies the vector tightening force to the back facing surface  314  along the proximal portion  332  (or the lowest point possible), which pushes the front portion  302  of the lug  300  forwardly and outwardly away from the object(s)  204 . This arrangement reduces the tendency of the front portion  302  of the lug  300  to tip toward the object(s)  204 , which can bend the threaded rod  112  and/or cause the threaded rod  112  to bind as it moves. In other words, because the vector tightening force is directed at the back facing surface  314  along the proximal portion  332 , the tipping aspect of the vector tightening force (created by tightening the nut  190 ) is reduced. 
     Therefore, the angle “A 6 ” (see  FIG. 14 ) causes the washer  180  to apply the vector tightening force directly to the back facing surface  314  along the proximal portion  332  (but not the distal portion  330 ) of the barrel  306 , which pushes the front portion  302  of the lug  300  forwardly but not toward the object(s)  204  (see  FIGS. 5, 7, 8, 15, and 16 ). This reduces the tendency of the front portion  302  of the lug  300  to tip toward the object(s)  204 , which can bend the threaded rod  112  (see  FIGS. 5, 7, 8, 15, and 16 ) and/or cause the threaded rod  112  to bind as the threaded rod  112  moves. In other words, because the vector tightening force is directed at the back facing surface  314  along the proximal portion  332  (but not the distal portion  330 ) of the barrel  306 , the tipping aspect of the vector tightening force (created by tightening the nut  190 ) is reduced. 
     In alternate embodiments, the lower portion  182  of the washer  180  may abut both the back facing surface  314  along the proximal portion  332  and at least a portion of the base portion  308 . However, in such embodiments, the upper portion  184  of the washer  180  is spaced apart from the back facing surface  314  along the distal portion  330 . 
     In  FIG. 12 , a dashed line  336  is perpendicular to the flat surface  170  and an angle “A 5 ” is defined between the dashed line  336  and the back facing surface  314  of the barrel  306 . The angle “A 5 ” may be substantially identical to a sum of the angles “A 4 ” and “A 6 .” 
     Referring to  FIG. 15 , the washer  180  is placed alongside and abuts the proximal portion  332  of the barrel  306 . However, the upper portion  184  of the washer will be spaced apart from the distal portion  330  of the barrel  306 . The nut  190 , which is threaded onto the threaded rod  112  and tightened against the washer  180 , applies the vector tightening force to the washer  180 . The washer  180  applies the vector tightening force to the proximal portion  332  of the barrel  306 , which pushes the front portion  302  of the lug  300  forwardly and outwardly away from the object(s)  204 . This arrangement reduces the tendency of the front portion  302  of the lug  300  to tip toward the object(s)  204 , which can bend the threaded rod  112  and/or cause the threaded rod  112  to bind as it moves. 
     Referring to  FIG. 9 , the first and second side rails  320  and  322  may have angled upper surfaces  370  and  372 , respectively. The first and second angled supports  324  and  326  are connected to the first and second side rails  320  and  322  at or near the angled upper surfaces  370  and  372 , respectively. The first and second angled supports  324  and  326  may be oriented at the same angle as the angled upper surfaces  370  and  372 , respectively. 
     Referring to  FIG. 10 , together the first side rail  320 , the second side rail  322 , the head cross member  340 , and the tail cross member  360  define a generally rectangular outer shape having a length “B 7 ” (see  FIG. 12 ) and a width “B 8 ” (see  FIG. 11 ). By way of non-limiting examples, the length “B 7 ” may be about 2.48 inches and the width “B 8 ” may be about 1.82 inches. The first and second side rails  320  and  322  may each have a height of about 0.97 inches. 
     Referring to  FIG. 15 , the band  150  passes over the tail cross member  360  and exerts pressure on the back portion  304  of the lug  300  when the nut  190  is tightened against the washer  180 . That pressure either prevents the back portion  304  of the lug  300  from rising, which tilts the lug  300  forwardly toward the object(s)  204 , or reduces an amount by which the back portion  304  of the lug  300  will rise and tilt the lug  300  forwardly toward the object(s)  204 . The greater the length “B 7 ” (see  FIG. 12 ) of the lug  300 , the greater the lever force of the band  150  pressing down on the tail cross member  360 , which reduces tilting. Therefore, the length “B 7 ” (see  FIG. 12 ) and/or the position of the tail cross member  360  may be determined at least in part based on whether the lug  300  tilts toward the object(s)  204 . 
     Further, as mentioned above, increasing the distance between the front portion  302  and the back facing surface  314  of the barrel  306  decreases the vector tightening force applied to the front portion  302  by the threaded rod  112 , which makes it less likely that the lug  300  will tip forwardly (causing the back portion  304  to lift in the direction of the threaded rod  112 ) when the threaded rod  112  is tightened. Referring to  FIG. 14 , in the lug  300 , the distance between the front portion  302  and the back facing surface  314  is equal to a sum of the length “B 6 ” and the distance between the front portion  302  and the front facing surface  312  (e.g., about 0.5 inches). Thus, by increasing the length “B 6 ” or the distance between the front portion  302  and the front facing surface  312 , it may be possible to reduce the likelihood that the lug  300  will tip forwardly. Therefore, the length “B 6 ” or the distance between the front portion  302  and the front facing surface  312  may be determined at least in part based on whether the lug  300  tilts toward the object(s)  204 . 
       FIG. 16  illustrates an embodiment of a band clamp  400  clamping the band  150  into the closed shape  202  (see  FIG. 6 ) around the object(s)  204  (e.g., the staves  260  of the hot tub). The band clamp  400  includes a first lug  300 A, a second lug  300 B, the threaded rod  112 , and the fasteners  210 . In the embodiment illustrated, the fasteners  210  have been implemented as the nuts  212  and  214  and the washers  216  and  218 . The first and second lugs  300 A and  300 B are each substantially identical to the lug  300  (see  FIGS. 9-15 ). Therefore, in the drawings, like reference numerals have been used to identify like components of the lugs  300 ,  300 A, and  300 B. 
     The band  150  is formed into the closed shape  202  (see  FIG. 6 ) by connecting the first and second ends  220  and  222  of the band  150  to the first and second lugs  300 A and  300 B, respectively. Then, the first and second lugs  300 A and  300 B are coupled together by the threaded rod  112  and the fasteners  210 . 
     The first end  220  of the band  150  is connected to the first lug  300 A by passing the first end  220  through the passageway  362  (see  FIGS. 11, 13, and 15 ) of the first lug  300 A, which extends over the head and tail cross members  340  and  360  of the first lug  300 A. Then, the band  150  is bent around the head cross member  340  (see  FIGS. 10 and 13-15 ) and directed backwardly under the tail cross member  360  of the first lug  300 A. As shown in  FIG. 16 , the first end  220  may be positioned behind the first lug  300 A. Similarly, the second end  222  of the band  150  is connected to the second lug  300 B by passing the second end  222  through the passageway  362  (see  FIGS. 11, 13, and 15 ) of the second lug  300 B, which extends over the head and tail cross members  340  and  360  of the second lug  300 B. Then, the band  150  is bent around the head cross member  340  (see  FIGS. 10 and 13-15 ) and directed backwardly under the tail cross member  360  of the second lug  300 B. As shown in  FIG. 16 , the second end  222  may be positioned behind the second lug  300 B. Thus, the first and second lugs  300 A and  300 B do not have to be welded to the band  150  to form the closed shape  202  (see  FIG. 6 ). 
     As mentioned above, the first and second lugs  300 A and  300 B are coupled together by the threaded rod  112  and the fasteners  210 . The first and second lugs  300 A and  300 B are positioned so that their front portions  302  (see  FIGS. 9, 10, and 12-15 ) are aligned with one another and the threaded rod  112  is inserted into the barrels  306  of the first and second lugs  300 A and  300 B. The first end  240  extends outwardly from the barrel  306  of the first lug  300 A and the second end  242  extends outwardly from the barrel  306  of the second lug  300 B. 
     The fasteners  210  couple the first end  240  to the first lug  300 A. First, the washer  216  is positioned on the first end  240  of the threaded rod  112 . The washer  216  is slid along the threaded rod  112  until the washer  216  abuts the back facing surface  314  (see  FIGS. 9, 11, 12, 14, and 15 ) along the proximal portion  332  (but not the distal portion  330 ) of the barrel  306  of the first lug  300 A. Next, the nut  212  is positioned on the first end  240  of the threaded rod  112  and threaded along the threaded rod  112  until the nut  212  is positioned alongside the washer  216 . Finally, referring to  FIG. 8 , the nut  212  (see  FIGS. 7 and 16 ) is tightened as desired (e.g., using a wrench  250 ). 
     Likewise, referring to  FIG. 16 , the fasteners  210  couple the second end  242  to the second lug  300 B. First, the washer  218  is positioned on the second end  242  of the threaded rod  112 . The washer  218  is slid along the threaded rod  112  until the washer  218  abuts the back facing surface  314  along the proximal portion  332  (but not the distal portion  330 ) of the barrel  306  of the second lug  300 B. Next, the nut  214  is positioned on the second end  242  and threaded along the threaded rod  112  until the nut  214  is positioned alongside the washer  218 . Finally, referring to  FIG. 8 , the nut  214  (see  FIGS. 7 and 16 ) is tightened as desired (e.g., using a wrench  252 ). 
     Referring to  FIG. 16 , tightening one or both of the nuts  212  and  214  decreases the distance between the first and second lugs  300 A and  100 B and decreases the area of the closed shape  202  (see  FIG. 6 ). Loosening one or both of the nuts  212  and  214  increases the distance between the first and second lugs  300 A and  300 B and increases the area of the closed shape  202  (see  FIG. 6 ). Thus, tightening one or both of the nuts  212  and  214  increases tension in the band  150  when the band  150  is used to clamp the object(s)  204 . On the other hand, loosening one or both of the nuts  212  and  214  decreases the tension in the band  150  when the band  150  is used to clamp the object(s)  204 . 
     As mentioned above, because of the angle “A 6 ” (see  FIG. 14 ), the washer  216  abuts the back facing surface  314  (see  FIGS. 9, 11, 12, 14, and 15 ) along the proximal portion  332  (but not the distal portion  330 ) of the barrel  306  of the first lug  300 A. Similarly, because of the angle “A 6 ” (see  FIG. 14 ), the washer  218  abuts the back facing surface  314  (see  FIGS. 9, 11, 12, 14, and 15 ) along the proximal portion  332  (but not the distal portion  330 ) of the barrel  306  of the second lug  300 B. Thus, the forwardly directed vector tightening forces applied to the first and second lugs  300 A and  300 B by the tightening the nuts  212  and  214 , respectively, pushes the front portions  302  of the first and second lugs  300 A and  300 B forwardly but not toward the object(s)  204 . This reduces the tendency of the first and second lugs  300 A and  300 B to tip toward the object(s)  204 , which can bend the threaded rod  112  and/or bind the threaded rod  112  as the threaded rod  112  moves. 
     Like the band clamp  200  (see  FIGS. 6-8 ), the band clamp  400  is configured to help prevent the threaded rod  112  from bending when one or both of the nuts  212  and  214  is tightened. This achieved because the first and second lugs  300 A and  300 B are configured to avoid tipping forwardly (and toward the object(s)  204 ) when one or both of the nuts  212  and  214  are tightened, which can cause the threaded rod  112  to bend. This allows the first and second lugs  300 A and  300 B to move smoothly together when one or both of the nuts  212  and  214  are tightened without the first and second lugs  300 A and  300 B tipping or the threaded rod  112  binding. 
     The tail cross member  360  is configured to maintain tight contact with the band  150  underneath the tail cross member  360 . This maintains pressure on any material (e.g., the object(s)  204 ) positioned inside and clamped by the closed shape  202  (see  FIG. 6 ) defined by the band  150 . For example, the object(s)  204  may be the staves  260  of a hot tub and the closed shape  202  (see  FIG. 6 ) may be used to clamp the staves  260  together to form the hot tub. The band  150  may be used to maintain even pressure on each of the staves  260 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 16 , the outside threads  230  of the threaded rod  112  have been illustrated as extending the full length of the threaded rod  112  from the first end  240  to the second end  242 . However, in alternate embodiments, the threaded rod  112  may be implemented as a carriage bolt (e.g., a galvanized carriage bolt) having a bolt head at one of the first and second ends  240  and  242 . Immediately adjacent to the bolt head, the carriage bolt has a bolt section with a generally square cross-sectional shape that functions as a key. In such embodiments, one of the nuts  212  and  214  and one of the washers  216  and  218  may each be omitted. Further, the through-channel  310  (see  FIGS. 9-15 ) of one or both of the first and second lugs  300 A and  300 B may have a square cross-sectional shape that extends from the back facing surface  314  (see  FIGS. 9, 11, 12, 14, and 15 ) toward the front facing surface  312  (see  FIGS. 10 and 12-15 ) and functions as a keyway. The keyway is configured to receive and prevent the rotation of the key of the carriage bolt with respect to the barrel  306 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 16 , some or all of the components of the band clamp  400  may be packaged into a second kit. For example, the second kit may include the first and second lugs  300 A and  300 B. Optionally, the second kit may also include the threaded rod  112 , the band  150 , and/or the fasteners  210  (e.g., the nuts  212  and  214  and the washers  216  and  218 ). 
     The foregoing described embodiments depict different components contained within, or connected with, different other components. It is to be understood that such depicted architectures are merely exemplary, and that in fact many other architectures can be implemented which achieve the same functionality. In a conceptual sense, any arrangement of components to achieve the same functionality is effectively “associated” such that the desired functionality is achieved. Hence, any two components herein combined to achieve a particular functionality can be seen as “associated with” each other such that the desired functionality is achieved, irrespective of architectures or intermedial components. Likewise, any two components so associated can also be viewed as being “operably connected,” or “operably coupled,” to each other to achieve the desired functionality. 
     While particular embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that, based upon the teachings herein, changes and modifications may be made without departing from this invention and its broader aspects and, therefore, the appended claims are to encompass within their scope all such changes and modifications as are within the true spirit and scope of this invention. Furthermore, it is to be understood that the invention is solely defined by the appended claims. It will be understood by those within the art that, in general, terms used herein, and especially in the appended claims (e.g., bodies of the appended claims) are generally intended as “open” terms (e.g., the term “including” should be interpreted as “including but not limited to,” the term “having” should be interpreted as “having at least,” the term “includes” should be interpreted as “includes but is not limited to,” etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such an intent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence of such recitation no such intent is present. For example, as an aid to understanding, the following appended claims may contain usage of the introductory phrases “at least one” and “one or more” to introduce claim recitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed to imply that the introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinite articles “a” or “an” limits any particular claim containing such introduced claim recitation to inventions containing only one such recitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases “one or more” or “at least one” and indefinite articles such as “a” or “an” (e.g., “a” and/or “an” should typically be interpreted to mean “at least one” or “one or more”); the same holds true for the use of definite articles used to introduce claim recitations. In addition, even if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly recited, those skilled in the art will recognize that such recitation should typically be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (e.g., the bare recitation of “two recitations,” without other modifiers, typically means at least two recitations, or two or more recitations). 
     Accordingly, the invention is not limited except as by the appended claims.