Patent ID: 12249822

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present disclosure provides embodiments of electrical cable hangers or supports for securing electrical wires and cables to a structure. By way of examples only, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described as being attached to a support structure such as a metal frame or rail upon which a solar array and/or solar tracking unit may be mounted. For ease of description, the support structure may be referred to interchangeably herein as frame, bracket or rail. The wires or cables referred to herein as being supported may be formed by one or more solid conductors and/or by one or more stranded conductors.

Electrical cable hangers according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described as being formed from a material capable of assuming a particular shape and substantially retaining that shape. The material may be referred to herein as wire or rod. A non-limiting example of such material is spring steel. The spring steel may be in the form of a wire or rod having a substantially circular cross-section, although other cross-sectional shapes are contemplated. Alternatively, the spring steel may be in be in the form of a strip or sheet having a substantially rectangular cross-section. The wire selected may include round galvanized steel, round stainless steel, flat rolled galvanized steel, flat rolled stainless steel, etc. The spring steel may be coated with a suitable material to protect it from the environment. For example, the spring steel may be galvanized. Alternatively, other forms of environmentally protected materials such as stainless spring steel may be utilized. One or more portions of the material may be provided with a coating which is non-conductive and/or provides a higher coefficient of friction than the material itself. The gauge of the material is selected to be suitable for the size and/or number of cables to be held and generally may range between 6-18 gauge. Although embodiments of the present disclosure will be described as being formed from a single segment of wire, it will be appreciated the single segment may actually consist of two or more individual segments joined by weld, solder, crimp, etc. to form the single segment.

A wire or cable hanger according to an illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure is shown inFIGS.1-3and is referred to herein generally as hanger100. Solar panels, arrays, trackers, etc. may utilize pipes, rails or tubes as frames or support structures. Various portions of the frames or support structures may have different shapes, dimensions and configurations and may be joined together utilizing various types of hardware having different shapes, dimensions and configuration. For example, as depicted inFIG.3, two or more portions of tubing or piping forming a portion of a rail support structure16may be joined together and secured utilizing a clamp10as shown. These types of clamps may also be used for attaching and holding brackets (not shown) used on the support structures. Clamps10may include a band12which wraps around rail support structure16and includes a cross bolt or screw member14extending between attachment points18,20. Screw member14can be rotated to tighten or loosen band12on support structure16. Cable hanger100according to an illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure is particularly well suited for use as cable management on such frames or supports. For example, a proximal end102may be attached to and hung from screw member14such that cable holding section140hangs below clamp10for supporting wires or cables passing thereby.

The electrical cable hanger100according to an illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure will be described in more detail by reference toFIGS.1and2and may be referred to herein generally as hanger100. Hanger100is formed from wire114and includes a hook end section102and a cable holding section140. Hook end section or proximal end section102includes a substantially circular bend124forming a hook clip opening144. Hook clip opening144has a diameter “D” and is dimensioned to receive and be clipped to a cross bolt or screw member14an example of which is depicted inFIG.3. Depending on the particular design and configuration of the clamp10, hook end section102of hanger100may be configured differently. For example, hook end section102may, as will be described in later illustrative embodiments, assume a shape and configuration other than circular bend124and may be, for example, substantially square, rectangular, triangular, oblong, etc. or combinations thereof and may, for example, correspond to the shape of the cross bolt or screw member14. The width “X” of the opening142to hook clip opening144(e.g., between bend122of circular bend124and arm section126) may be less than diameter “D” thus ensuring a secure attachment when cross bolt or screw member14is received in hook clip opening144. Of course, depending on a particular application, the width “X” may be the same or greater than diameter “D”. According to the illustrative embodiment, the portion of the wire114immediately prior to the terminal end120flares outwardly as shown inFIG.1such that terminal end120may be more easily pried outwardly to enlarge opening142making it easier for hook end section102to receive cross bolt or screw member14. Of course, this flared terminal end portion may be omitted in any of the disclosed embodiments. Intermediate arm section126extends to bend128substantially straight arm segment123and then loop section112forming cable holding loop132of cable holding section140. Loop section112continues to substantially straight arm segment121and U-shaped bend134, ending in distal end136of wire114. U-shaped bend134provides a smooth rounded surface at opening130so that when cables are pressed through opening130and received in loop section112, the cables are not nicked or otherwise damaged. According to an illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure, the width “W” of opening130to cable holding loop132may be slightly smaller than a diameter of cabling to be held by cable holding loop132. The diameter “D” may be selected to correspond to an anticipated number/dimensions of cabling to be held and may be, for example, in the 1″-8″ range or larger. Although cable holding loop132is depicted as generally circular in shape, it will be appreciated other shapes including, for example, square, rectangular, oval, triangular, etc. may be utilized.

As shown inFIG.2, assuming the portions of the hanger100forming hook end section102are substantially in the same plane as the paper (e.g., the X-Y plane), cable holding section140extends substantially perpendicularly out of the paper in the Z-direction. Depending on a particular application, U-shaped bend134may be in the same plane as hook end section102or in the same plane as the cable holding section140. Of course, this particular orientation may be reconfigured depending on a desired configuration of cable holding section. That is, cable holding section140may be formed in the same plane as the rest of hanger100or in any other orientation suitable for a particular application. This may be accomplished during manufacture of hanger100or by the end user by manually manipulating the hanger100into the desired orientation. As will be appreciated fromFIG.3, hook end section102can be hung from any portion of any type of support structure having a structure similar to cross bolt or screw member14.

A wire or cable hanger according to another illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure is shown inFIGS.4-6and is referred to herein generally as hanger150. A portion of yet another type of support structure to which wire or cable hangers can be attached is depicted inFIG.6. This type of support structure may include tubing or piping38. The piping or tubing may be supported and held by another structure36utilizing bolts32and cross member34. This type of support structure30also makes a convenient location for hanging electrical cable hangers used to support cabling running in the vicinity of the support structure30. A cable hanger150according to an illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure is particularly well suited for use as cable management on such a support structure. For example, a proximal end or hook end section152of hanger150may be attached to or hung from vertical bolt32and supported by cross member34such that distal end or cable holding loop182is positioned below support structure30for supporting wires or cables passing support structure30.

The electrical cable hanger150according to this illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure will be described in more detail by reference toFIGS.4and5and may be referred to herein generally as hanger150. Hanger150is formed from a single section of wire164and includes a proximal or hook end section152and a cable holding section160. Hook end section152includes a substantially circular bend174forming a hook clip opening194. Hook clip opening194has a diameter “X” and is dimensioned to receive and be clipped to a bolt such as, for example, the vertical bolt32depicted inFIG.6. Depending on the particular design and configuration of the support structure30, hook end section152of hanger150may be configured differently. For example, hook end section152may assume a shape other than circular bend194and may be, for example, substantially square, rectangular, triangular, oblong, etc. to correspond to the shape of the attachment point which in this particular illustration is bolt32. Arm section193which forms part of hook end section152extends from circular bend174to right angle bend192and to arm section176. Arm section176then extends to bend178and then loop section162forming cable holding loop182of cable holding section160. Loop section162continues to U-shaped bend184, ending in distal end186of wire164. U-shaped bend184provides a smooth rounded surface at opening180so that when cables are pressed through opening180and received in loop section162, the cables are not nicked or otherwise damaged. According to an illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure, the width “W” of opening180to cable holding loop182may be slightly smaller than a diameter of cabling to be held by cable holding loop182. The diameter “D” of loop section162may be selected to correspond to an anticipated number/dimensions of cabling to be held and may be, for example, in the 1″-8″ range or larger. Although cable holding loop182is depicted as generally circular in shape, it will be appreciated other shapes including, for example, square, rectangular, oval, triangular, etc. may be utilized.

As shown inFIG.5, assuming the portions of the hanger150forming cable holding section160are substantially in the same plane as the paper (e.g., the X-Y plane), hook end section152extends substantially perpendicularly out of the paper in the negative Z-direction. Depending on a particular application, U-shaped bend184may be in the same plane as hook end section152or in the same plane as the cable holding section160. Of course, this particular orientation may be reconfigured depending on a desired configuration of cable holding section160. That is, cable holding loop182may be formed in any plane or in any other orientation suitable for a particular application. This may be accomplished during manufacture of hanger150or by the end user by manually manipulating the hanger150into the desired orientation. As will be appreciated fromFIG.6, hook end section152may be suitable to be hung from any portion of any type of support structure having a structure similar to bolt32and cross member34.

A wire or cable hanger according to another illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure is shown inFIGS.7-9and is referred to herein generally as hanger200. Hanger200is also particularly well suited to manage cabling on the type of support structure as depicted inFIG.9. This type of support structure may include tubing or piping38. The piping or tubing may be supported and held by another structure36utilizing bolts32and cross member34. This type of support structure30also makes a convenient location for hanging electrical cable hangers used to support cabling running in the vicinity of the support structure30. A cable hanger200according to an illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure is particularly well suited for use as cable management on such a support structure. For example, a proximal end or hook end section202of hanger200may be attached to or hung from vertical bolt32and supported by cross member34such that distal end or cable holding loop232is positioned below support structure30for supporting wires or cables passing support structure30.

The electrical cable hanger according to this illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure will be described in more detail by reference toFIGS.7and8and may be referred to herein generally as hanger200. Hanger200is formed from a single section of wire214and includes a proximal or hook end section202and a cable holding section240. Hook end section202includes a substantially circular bend224forming a hook clip opening244. Hook clip opening244has a diameter “D” and is dimensioned to receive and be clipped to a bolt such as, for example, the vertical bolt32depicted inFIG.9. The width “X” of the opening242to hook clip opening244(e.g., between bend222of circular bend224and arm section203) may be less than diameter “D” thus ensuring a secure attachment when cross bolt34is received in hook clip opening244. Of course, depending on a particular application, the width “X” may be the same or greater than diameter “D”. Depending on the particular design and configuration of the support structure30, hook end section202of hanger200may be configured differently. For example, hook end section202may assume a shape other than circular bend224and may be, for example, substantially square, rectangular, triangular, oblong, etc. to correspond to the shape of the bolt32. The portion of the wire214immediately prior to the terminal end220flares outwardly as shown inFIG.7such that terminal end220may be easily pried outwardly to enlarge opening242making it easier for hook end section202to receive cross bolt32. Arm section203which forms part of hook end section202extends from circular bend224to right angle bend205and to arm section226. Arm section226then extends to bend228and then loop section212forming cable holding loop232of cable holding section240. Loop section212continues to U-shaped bend234, ending in distal end236of wire214. U-shaped bend234provides a smooth rounded surface at opening230so that when cables are pressed through opening230and received in loop section212, the cables are not nicked or otherwise damaged. According to an illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure, the width “W” of opening230to cable holding loop232may be slightly smaller than a diameter of cabling to be held by cable holding loop232. The diameter “D” may be selected to correspond to an anticipated number/dimensions of cabling to be held and may be, for example, in the 1″-8″ range or larger. Although cable holding loop232is depicted as generally circular in shape, it will be appreciated other shapes including, for example, square, rectangular, oval, triangular, etc. may be utilized.

As shown inFIG.8, assuming the portions of the hanger200forming cable holding section240are substantially in the same plane as the paper (e.g., the X-Y plane), hook end section202extends substantially perpendicularly out of the paper in the negative Z-direction. Depending on a particular application, U-shaped bend234may be in the same plane as hook end section202or in the same plane as the cable holding section240. Of course, the particular orientation may be reconfigured depending on a desired configuration of cable holding section. That is, hook end section202may be formed in the X-Y plane as the rest of hanger200or in any other orientation suitable for a particular application. This may be accomplished during manufacture of hanger200or by the end user by manually manipulating the hanger200into the desired orientation. As will be appreciated fromFIG.9, hook end section202can be hung from any portion of any type of support structure having a structure similar to bolt32and cross member34.

A wire or cable hanger according to another illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure is shown inFIGS.10-12Band is referred to herein generally as hanger300. Hanger200is particularly well suited to manage cabling on a type of support structure80as depicted inFIGS.12A,12B. This type of support structure80may include the use of tubing or piping50forming a portion of a support structure80. As depicted in these figures, the tubing50is hexagonal in cross-section having eight sides. It will be appreciated the cross-sectional shape of the tubing might take other forms including round or may have any number of sides (e.g., 2 sides, 3 sides, 4 sides, 5 sides, 6 sides, 7 sides, etc.). The support structure80and, in particular, the tubing50, also makes a convenient location for hanging electrical cable hangers used to support cabling running in the vicinity of the support structure. A cable hanger300according to an illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure is particularly well suited for use as cable management on such a support structure. For example, a proximal end or hook end section302of hanger300may be attached to or hung from and supported by tube50such that the distal end or cable holding loop332is positioned next to support structure80for supporting wires or cables passing support structure80.

The electrical cable hanger300according to this exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure will be described in more detail by reference toFIGS.10-12Band may be referred to herein generally as hanger300. Hanger300is formed from a single segment of wire314. The wire may have a substantially circular cross section, although other cross-sectional shapes including square, rectangular, octagonal, etc. are also contemplated. Hanger300includes a proximal end302which may be referred to herein as proximal end section or hook end section302. Proximal end section302includes a hook clip opening342shaped and dimensioned to receive, for example, bracket or support50which is retained in clip area344. Hanger300also includes a distal end340which may be referred to herein as distal end section or cable loop end section340. The cable loop end section340includes loop section312of wire314and holds and secures the cabling and wiring.

A proximal end of wire314includes a number of “sides” or substantially straight portions. The number of straight portions depends on a number of sides forming the bracket or tubing to which hanger300is to be attached. Generally, the hanger300may include a number of sides to correspond to at least half of the sides forming the outer circumference of the portion of the support structure80to which the hanger300will be attached. For example, according to the present illustrative embodiment, wire314includes six sides (322A-322F) which correspond to six of the eight sides (e.g., sides50A-50F) forming tubing50. The lengths of sides322B-322F are generally dimensioned to correspond to the dimensions of the sides50B-50F of tubing50. The very proximal end of wire314which forms side322A may be shorter or longer than the corresponding side of the tubing40. Of course, it will be appreciated one or more of sides322A-322F may be configured in different lengths and/or shapes, depending on the lengths and/or shapes of the sides of the bracket to which it will be attached. As noted above, to ensure a secure reliable connection to the tubing50, hanger300should preferably extend around at least half of the circumference of the bracket to which it is being attached. According to the present illustrative embodiment, hanger300extends around more than half of the circumference of tubing50providing a secure and reliable connection to the support structure80. Side322F extends to bend320and then bend328with arced portion321being formed therebetween. Arced portion321makes contact with yet another side (e.g., side50G) of tubing50as depicted inFIG.12Aproviding even further positive more secure contact with tubing50. Extension arm323extends from bend328and may be any desired length suitable for a particular application. For example, depending on the length of arm323, cable loop end section340can be set close to support structure80or may extend further away from support structure80.

Extension arm323extends to loop section312forming cable holding loop332at cable loop end portion340. Loop section312continues to U-shaped bend334, ending in distal end336of wire314. U-shaped bend334provides a smooth rounded surface at opening330so that when cables are pressed through opening330and received in loop section312, the cables are not nicked or otherwise damaged. According to an illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure, the width “W” of opening330to cable holding loop332may be slightly smaller than a diameter of cabling to be held by cable holding loop332. The diameter “D” of cable holding loop332may be selected to correspond to an anticipated number/dimensions of cabling to be held and may be, for example, in the 1″-8″ range or larger. Although cable holding loop332is depicted as generally circular in shape, it will be appreciated other shapes including, for example, square, rectangular, oval, triangular, etc. may be utilized.

As shown inFIG.11, the portions of the hanger300forming proximal end section302and distal end section340are substantially in the same plane as the paper (e.g., the X-Y plane), with U-shaped bend336extending substantially perpendicularly out of the paper in the Z-direction. Of course, this particular orientation may be reconfigured depending on a desired configuration of loop section312. For example, proximal end section302and distal end section340may be formed in different planes or in any other orientation suitable for a particular application. This may be accomplished during manufacture of hanger300or by the end user by manually manipulating the hanger300into the desired orientation.

A coating may be provided on at least the portions of any of the above described hangers that come in contact with wires or cables. For example, as illustrated inFIG.1A, portions of the hanger100that come into contact with wires and cables inserted into the loop opening may be coated with coating101. Depending on a particular application, coating101may be an electrical insulator and/or may provide a higher coefficient of friction than the material forming the hanger itself. This allows the electrical wires and cables being held in loop opening to be electrically isolated from the hanger100and any structure upon which the hanger100is mounted. Providing a material with a higher coefficient of friction provides a surer grip to hold the wires and cables in position. Examples of suitable coatings may include rubber or rubber like materials, plastics, varnish, etc. Coating101may be applied to hanger100in any suitable manner including, for example, by brush, spray or dipping, etc. Of course, any of the embodiments described herein may have the coating101applied to all of the hanger or only the portion of the hanger that will contact cables or wires being held by the hanger.

The hook end sections (102,152,202) illustrated in the above-described embodiments, are substantially circular in shape and may or may not include a flared terminal end portion (e.g., portion120). In addition, as mentioned above, the hook end sections (102,152,202) described with respect to above embodiments may have different shapes and configurations suitable for particular applications. According to other illustrative embodiments, the hook end sections may be generally polygonal in shape having any suitable number of sides and may include one or more nonlinear or curved sides. For example, as shown inFIGS.13A-13C, the hook end sections may be substantially square (FIG.13A), rectangular (FIG.13B), triangular (FIG.13C), oblong (FIG.13D), etc.

Referring toFIG.13A, hook end section302extends from intermediate arm section303. Intermediate arm section303corresponds to the above-described intermediate arm sections126,176,226illustrated and described in the above embodiments between the hook end sections102,152,202and the cable holding loop section132,182,232, respectively. Intermediate arm section303extends to elbow304, arm306, elbow308, arm310and ends in flared terminal end portion311. Of course, as described in above embodiments, flared terminal end portion311may be omitted. The lengths of arms306,310and flared terminal end portion311may vary as suitable for a particular application. The length of arm306may be selected such that a distance between arm310and arm section303is the same or larger than a diameter or width of a member to which hook end section302is intended to be attached. In addition, the angles “A”, “A′” formed by elbows308,304, respectively, may be the same or different as suitable for a particular application. Arms306,310may be substantially the same length as shown. The angle “B” formed at elbow309between arm310and flared terminal end portion311may be anywhere between 0-360 degrees.

Referring toFIG.13B, the hook end section312may be substantially rectangular. Hook end section312extends from intermediate arm section313to elbow314, arm316, elbow318, arm320and ends in flared terminal end portion321. According to this illustrative embodiment, arm316and arm320are different lengths as shown and each may vary depending on a particular application. According to the present illustrative embodiment, arm320is longer than arm316creating a vertical rectangular shape. Of course, arm316may be made longer than arm320creating a horizontal rectangular shape as desired. The length of arm316may be selected such that a distance between arm320and arm section313is the same or larger than a diameter or width of a member to which hook end section312is intended to be attached. The length of flared terminal end portion321may vary as suitable for a particular application. Of course, as described in above embodiments, flared terminal end portion321may be omitted. In addition, the angles formed by elbows314,318, respectively, may be the same or different as suitable for a particular application. The angle formed at elbow319between arm320and flared terminal end portion321may be anywhere between 0-360 degrees.

Referring toFIG.13C, the hook end section may be substantially triangular. Depending on a particular application, the triangular shape may be equilateral, acute, obtuse, scalene, isosceles, right-triangle, etc. According to the present illustrative embodiment, hook end section322extends from intermediate arm section323to elbow327, to arm325, elbow324, arm326, elbow328, arm330, elbow329and ends in flared terminal end portion331. Of course, as described in above embodiments, flared terminal end portion331may be omitted. According to the present illustrative embodiment, arms325,326and330may be the same or similar lengths. Of course, the lengths of arms325,326and330may vary from each other. The length of arms325,326and330may be selected such that a distance between arm330and arm325at its narrowest or widest point is the same or larger than a diameter or width of a member to which hook end section322is intended to be attached. In addition, the angles “C”, “C′” formed by elbows324,328, respectively, may be the same or different as suitable for a particular application. The angle “D” formed at elbow329between arm330and flared terminal end portion331may be anywhere between 0-360 degrees. The angle “E” formed at elbow327between intermediate arm323and arm325may generally be between 45-225 degrees and, preferably, between 90-180 degrees.

Referring toFIG.13D, the hook end section332may include a nonlinear or curved side and may be, for example, substantially oblong. Hook end section332extends from intermediate arm section333to semi-circular U-shaped arm336, to arm340, elbow339and ends in flared terminal end portion341. Of course, as described in above embodiments, flared terminal end portion341may be omitted. In addition, in any of the disclosed embodiments the elbow339just prior to the flared terminal end portion may include an inward projection337which extends into the gap338at the opening to hook end section332. The diameter of the semi-circular arm336may be selected to correspond to the portion of a structure to which it is intended to be attached. For example, the diameter of the semi-circular arm336may be the same or larger than a diameter of a member to which hook end332is intended to be attached. The inward projection337helps to maintain the portion of the structure received in hook end section332from falling out of the hook end section332.

The hook end sections described herein in addition to having different shapes, may also be arranged in different configurations with respect to the intermediate arm sections. Referring toFIG.14A, a hook end section402is similar to hook end302depicted above with respect toFIG.13Abut is configured differently with respect to the intermediate arm section and the rest of the cable hanger. For example, according to the present illustrative embodiment, hook end section402extends from intermediate arm section403at elbow405to arm407, elbow404, arm406, elbow408, arm410, elbow409, arm401, elbow460and ends in flared terminal end portion411. Of course, as described in above embodiments, flared terminal end portion411may be omitted. The lengths of arms406,410and401are substantially the same but may vary as suitable for a particular application. The length of arms406,410,401may be selected such that a distance between arm401and arm406and/or between arm410and arm407is the same or larger than a diameter or width of a member to which hook end section402is intended to be attached. In addition, the angles “A”, “A′” and “A″” formed by elbows408,409and404, respectively, may be the same or different as suitable for a particular application. The angle “B” formed at elbow460between arm401and flared terminal end portion411may be anywhere between 0-360 degrees. The angle “F” formed at elbow405between arm403and arm407may generally be between 45-225 degrees and preferably between 90-180 degrees.

Referring toFIG.14B, the hook end section412is similar to hook end section312described above with respect toFIG.13Bbut is configured differently with respect to the intermediate arm section and the rest of the cable hanger. For example, according to this illustrative embodiment, hook end section412extends from intermediate arm section413to elbow415, arm417, elbow414, arm416, elbow418, arm420, elbow419, arm421, elbow462and ends in flared terminal end portion461. According to this illustrative embodiment, arms416and arm421may be substantially the same length or may vary depending on a particular application. The length of arm416may be selected such that a distance between arm420and arm section417is the same or larger than a diameter or width of a member to which hook end section412is intended to be attached. The length of flared terminal end portion461may vary as suitable for a particular application. Of course, as described in above embodiments, flared terminal end portion461may be omitted. In addition, the angles “A”, “A′”, “A″” formed by elbows418,419,414, respectively, may be the same or different as suitable for a particular application. The angle formed at elbow462between arm421and flared terminal end portion461may be anywhere between 0-360 degrees as described with respect to previous embodiments. The angle formed at elbow415between arm413and arm417may generally be between 45-225 degrees and preferably between 90-180 degrees as described with respect to previous embodiments.

Referring toFIG.14C, the hook end section422is similar to hook end section322described above with respect toFIG.13Cbut is configured differently with respect to the intermediate arm section and the rest of the cable hanger. Hook end section422may be substantially triangular. Depending on a particular application, the triangular shape may equilateral, acute, obtuse, scalene, isosceles, right-triangle, etc. According to the present illustrative embodiment, hook end section422extends from intermediate arm section423to elbow427, arm421, elbow463, arm425, elbow424, arm426, elbow428, arm430, elbow429and ends in flared terminal end portion431. Of course, as described in above embodiments, flared terminal end portion431may be omitted. According to the present illustrative embodiment, arms425,426and430may be the same or similar lengths. Of course, the lengths of arms425,426and430may vary from each other as desired. The lengths of arms425,426and430may be selected such that a distance between arm430and arm425at its narrowest or widest point is the same or larger than a diameter or width of a member to which hook end section422is intended to be attached. In addition, the angles “C”, “C′” formed by elbows428,424, respectively, may be the same or different as suitable for a particular application. The angle “D” formed at elbow429between arm430and flared terminal end portion431may be anywhere between 0-360 degrees. The angle formed at elbow427between intermediate arm section423and arm421may generally be between 45-225 degrees and, more preferably, between 90-180 degrees. Angle “G” formed at elbow463between arm421and arm425may generally be between 45-270 degrees.

Referring toFIG.14D, the hook end section432is similar to hook end section332described above with respect toFIG.13Cbut is configured differently with respect to the intermediate arm section and the rest of the cable hanger. For example, according to the present illustrative embodiment, hook end section432extends from intermediate arm section433at elbow434to arm435, semi-circular U-shaped elbow436, to arm440, elbow438, arm439, elbow441and ends in flared terminal end portion440. Of course, as described in above embodiments, flared terminal end portion440may be omitted. The diameter of the semi-circular U-shaped elbow436may be selected to correspond to the portion of a structure to which it is intended to be attached. For example, the diameter of the semi-circular U-shaped elbow436may be the same or larger than a diameter of a member to which hook end432is intended to be attached. The angle “B” formed at elbow441between arm439and flared terminal end portion440may be anywhere between 0-360 degrees. The angle “H” formed at elbow434between arm433and arm435may generally be between 45-225 degrees and preferably between 90-180 degrees.

Referring toFIG.14E, the hook end section442is similar to hook end section102described above with respect toFIG.1but is configured differently with respect to the intermediate arm section and the rest of the cable hanger. For example, according to the present illustrative embodiment, hook end section442extends from intermediate arm section426at elbow443to arm445, semi-circular arm444, elbow442and ends in flared terminal end portion446. Of course, as described in above embodiments, flared terminal end portion446may be omitted. The diameter of the semi-circular arm444may be selected to correspond to the portion of a structure to which it is intended to be attached. For example, the diameter of the semi-circular arm444as well as the distance between elbow442and arm445may be the same or larger than a diameter of a member to which hook end442is intended to be attached. The angle “B” formed at elbow442between semi-circular arm444and flared terminal end portion446may be anywhere between 0-360 degrees. The angle “I” formed at elbow443between intermediate arm426and arm445may generally be between 45-225 degrees and preferably between 90-180 degrees.

Referring toFIG.15A, hook end section502is substantially square and extends at an obtuse angle from arm section503. For example, according to the present illustrative embodiment, hook end502extends from intermediate arm section503at elbow505to arm506, elbow508, arm510, elbow509, arm501, elbow560and ends in flared terminal end portion511. Of course, as described in above embodiments, flared terminal end portion511may be omitted. The lengths of arms506,510and501are substantially the same but may vary as suitable for a particular application. The length of arms506,510,501may be selected such that a distance between arm501and arm506is the same or larger than a diameter or width of a member to which hook end section502is intended to be attached. In addition, the angles “K”, “K′” formed by elbows508,509, respectively, are generally 90 degrees. However, these angles may be other than 90 degrees and may be the same or different from each other as suitable for a particular application. The angle “L” formed at elbow505between intermediate arm503and arm506is an obtuse angle between 90-180 degrees. Preferably, angle “L” and the length of arms506,510are selected such that a hypothetical vertical axis “X” extending through arm503extends through elbow509and member50to which the hook end section502is to be attached. More preferably, angle “L” and the length of arms506,510are selected such that the vertical axis “X” extends through the center of elbow509and the member50to which the hook end section502is to be attached.

Referring toFIG.15B, hook end section512is substantially rectangular and extends at an obtuse angle from intermediate arm section513. For example, according to the present illustrative embodiment, hook end section512extends from intermediate arm section513to elbow515, arm517, elbow514, arm516, elbow518, arm520, elbow519, arm521, elbow562and ends in flared terminal end portion561. According to this illustrative embodiment, arms516and arm521may be substantially the same length or may vary depending on a particular application. The length of arm516may be selected such that a distance between arm520and arm section517is the same or larger than a diameter or width of a member to which hook end section512is intended to be attached. The length of flared terminal end portion561may vary as suitable for a particular application. Of course, as described in above embodiments, flared terminal end portion561may be omitted. In addition, the angles “A”, “A′”, “A″” formed by elbows518,519,514, respectively, may be the same or different as suitable for a particular application. As in other described embodiments, the angle formed at elbow562between arm521and flared terminal end portion561may be anywhere between 0-360 degrees. In addition, similar to that described in the previous embodiment, the angle formed at elbow515between intermediate arm section513and arm517is an obtuse angle between 90-180 degrees. Preferably, this angle and the length of arms516,517are selected such that a hypothetical vertical axis extending through intermediate arm section513extends through elbow518and the member to which the hook end section512is to be attached. More preferably, this angle and the length of arms516,517are selected such that the vertical axis extends through the center of elbow518and the member to which the hook end section512is to be attached.

Referring toFIG.15C, hook end section512is substantially triangular and extends at an obtuse angle from intermediate arm section523. Depending on a particular application, the triangular shape may be equilateral, acute, obtuse, scalene, isosceles, right-triangle, etc. According to the present illustrative embodiment, hook end section522extends from intermediate arm section523to elbow527, arm525, elbow524, arm526, elbow528, arm530, elbow529and ends in flared terminal end portion531. Of course, as described in above embodiments, flared terminal end portion431may be omitted. According to the present illustrative embodiment, arms525,526and530may be the same or similar lengths. Of course, the lengths of arms525,526and530may vary from each other as desired. The length of arms525,526and530may be selected such that a distance between arm530and arm525at its narrowest or widest point is the same or larger than a diameter or width of a member to which hook end section422is intended to be attached. In addition, similar to that described above with respect toFIG.14C, the angles formed by elbows528,524, respectively, may be the same or different as suitable for a particular application. The angle formed at elbow529between arm530and flared terminal end portion531may be anywhere between 0-360 degrees. In addition, similar to that described in the previous embodiments, the angle formed at elbow527between intermediate arm section523and arm517is an obtuse angle between 90-180 degrees. Preferably, this angle and the length of arms525,526are selected such that a hypothetical vertical axis extending through intermediate arm section523extends through elbow528and the member to which the hook end section522is to be attached. More preferably, this angle and the length of arms525,526are selected such that the vertical axis extends through the center of elbow528and the member to which the hook end section522is to be attached.

Referring toFIG.15D, hook end section532is substantially rectangular and extends at an obtuse angle from intermediate arm section533. For example, according to the present illustrative embodiment, hook end section532extends from intermediate arm section533at elbow534to arm535, semi-circular U-shaped elbow536, to arm540, elbow538, arm539, elbow541and ends in flared terminal end portion540. Of course, as described in above embodiments, flared terminal end portion540may be omitted. The diameter of the semi-circular U-shaped elbow536may be selected to correspond to the portion of a structure to which it is intended to be attached. For example, the diameter of the semi-circular U-shaped elbow536may be the same or larger than a diameter of a member to which hook end532is intended to be attached. As in earlier described embodiments, the angle formed at elbow541between arm539and flared terminal end portion540may be anywhere between 0-360 degrees. In addition, similar to that described in the previous embodiments, the angle formed at elbow534between intermediate arm section533and arm535is an obtuse angle between 90-180 degrees. Preferably, this angle and the length of arm535are selected such that a hypothetical vertical axis extending through intermediate arm section533extends through elbow portion537of the semi-circular U-shaped elbow536and the member to which the hook end section532is to be attached. More preferably, this angle and the length of arm533are selected such that the vertical axis extends through the center of elbow portion537and the member to which the hook end section522is to be attached.

Referring toFIG.15E, hook end section542is substantially circular and extends at an obtuse angle from intermediate arm section553. For example, according to the present illustrative embodiment, hook end section542extends from intermediate arm section553at elbow543to arm545, semi-circular arm544, elbow542and ends in flared terminal end portion546. Of course, as described in above embodiments, flared terminal end portion546may be omitted. The diameter of the semi-circular arm544may be selected to correspond to the portion of a structure to which it is intended to be attached. For example, the diameter of the semi-circular arm544may be the same or larger than a diameter of a member to which hook end542is intended to be attached. As in earlier described embodiments, the angle formed at elbow542between semi-circular arm544and flared terminal end portion546may be anywhere between 0-360 degrees. In addition, similar to that described in the previous embodiments, the angle formed at elbow543between intermediate arm section553and arm545is an obtuse angle between 90-180 degrees. Preferably, this angle and the length of arm545are selected such that a hypothetical vertical axis extending through intermediate arm section553extends through semi-circular arm544and the member to which the hook end section542is to be attached. More preferably, this angle and the length of arm545are selected such that the vertical axis extends through the center of semi-circular arm544and the member to which the hook end section532is to be attached.

As noted above, the cable holding loops (132,182,232,332) described with respect to above embodiments may have different shapes and configurations suitable for particular applications. According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the cable holding loops may be generally polygonal in shape having any suitable number of sides and may include one or more nonlinear curved sides. For example, as shown inFIGS.16A-16D, the cable holding loops may be substantially square (FIG.16A), rectangular (FIG.16B), triangular (FIG.16C), oblong (FIG.16D), etc.

As illustrated inFIG.16A, the cable holding loop632extends from intermediate arm section603to elbow634, arm636, elbow638, arm640, elbow642, arm644, elbow646and U-shaped hook end648. While not shown for reasons of brevity, U-shaped hook end648may be similar to any of the U-shaped ends depicted in the above embodiments (e.g., seeFIG.1, U-shaped bend134). U-shaped hook end648provides a smooth rounded surface at the opening630to the cable holding loop so that when cables are passed through opening630and received in cable holding loop632, the cables are not nicked or otherwise damaged. The number and lengths of sides632,636,640and644may be selected depending among other things, on a number and size of cables that cable holding loop632is intended to hold. For example, as depicted inFIG.16B, sides653,650may be longer than sides656,654such that a substantially vertical rectangular cable holding loop652is provided. Alternatively, sides654,656may be made longer than sides653,650such that a substantially horizontal rectangular cable holding loop is provided. In addition, the angles “P”, “P′”, “P″” and the number of sides forming the cable holding loop mau be other than as depicted inFIG.16A. For example, as depicted inFIG.16C, one or more of angles “P”, “P′” “P″” may be less than 90 degrees forming a substantially triangular like cable holding loop662extending from intermediate arm section663. Furthermore, the cable holding loop662may be offset from intermediate arm section663at elbow664. The angle “Q” formed at elbow664may generally be between 90-270 degrees and preferably between 135-225 degrees. One or more sides forming the cable holding loop may be non-linear. For example, as depicted inFIG.16D, cable holding loop672extends from intermediate arm section673and includes sides674,678,680which are substantially straight, while side676may be curved as shown. As shown inFIG.16D, cable holding loop672may be offset from intermediate arm section673at elbow675similar to that as described above with respect toFIG.16C.

Certain terminology may be used in the present disclosure for ease of description and understanding. Examples include the following terminology or variations thereof: top, bottom, up, upward, inner, outer, outward, down, downward, upper, lower, vertical, horizontal, etc. These terms refer to directions in the drawings to which reference is being made and not necessarily to any actual configuration of the structure or structures in use and, as such, are not necessarily meant to be limiting.

As shown throughout the drawings, like reference numerals designate like or corresponding parts. While illustrative embodiments of the present disclosure have been described and illustrated above, it should be understood that these are exemplary of the disclosure and are not to be considered as limiting. Additions, deletions, substitutions, and other modifications can be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly, the present disclosure is not to be considered as limited by the foregoing description.