Binding clamp

Abstract

A bonding clip for electrical bonding with a metal structure is provided. The bonding clip includes an electrically conductive body, an electrically conductive first leg, an electrically conductive second leg, and an electrically conductive mounting member. The first leg has one or more piercing members extending from the first leg in a first direction. The second leg has one or more piercing members extending from the second leg in the first direction. The one or more piercing members are configured to pierce a protective coating on the metal structure such that the one or more piercing members are in contact with underlying metal.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This disclosure is based on and claims preference to co-pending U.S. provisional patent application No. 62 / 954,753 entitled “Bonding Clips”, filed on December 30, 2019, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure generally relates to coupling clamps, and more particularly to coupling clamps for coupling with metal structures connected using metal splicing brackets. Background Technology

[0004] Data centers, computer rooms, and telecommunications rooms typically consist of arrays of racks or cabinets arranged in one or more rows, with aisles between these rows. Each rack or cabinet houses telecommunications cabling infrastructure and electronic equipment including patch panels, servers, switches, routers, etc. The cabling infrastructure includes cabling extending between electronic equipment within the racks or cabinets; cabling extending between racks within the data center, computer room, or telecommunications room; and cabling extending in and out of the data center, computer room, or telecommunications room. Typically, cable management systems in data centers, computer rooms, and telecommunications rooms are installed overhead and provide cable paths. Cable management systems consist of multiple metal cable tray assemblies connected together using metal splice plates. Each cable tray assembly may have a different length and typically includes two parallel metal rails with multiple cross-braces. The metal rails are usually suspended from the ceiling, and the cross-braces support the cabling.

[0005] Metal cable tray assemblies and splice panels used to support cable cabling are typically coated with a protective non-conductive material that provides protection against unwanted electrical or thermal transfer and / or the effects of environmental conditions. Local electrical codes often require their integration with such metal structures as a safety measure. To integrate with such a structure, the protective non-conductive coating must be removed to create a conductive path between the electrical grounding conductor and the metal beneath the coating. Typically, technicians must remove the protective non-conductive coating by sanding or grinding until the bare metal is exposed. However, carefully removing this coating is a time-consuming process. Furthermore, if insufficient coating is removed, a proper conductive path may not be established. The sheer number of cable tray assemblies and splice panels present in data centers exacerbates these possibilities. As a result, the cost and time required to integrate each cable assembly can be substantial, given the time-consuming nature of manually removing the protective non-conductive coating from the cable tray assemblies and splice panels. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This disclosure provides a description of embodiments of a coupling clamp for electrically coupling to a metal structure joined together using one or more metal splicing brackets. In an exemplary embodiment, the coupling clamp includes a conductive body having at least one conductive wall, a conductive first leg, a conductive second leg, and a conductive mounting member. Each of the at least one wall includes a first side edge, a second side edge, a first end edge, and a second end edge. The first leg extends from and is adjacent to the first end edge of the wall. The first leg has at least one piercing member extending from the first leg in a first direction. In another embodiment, the first leg may include at least one piercing member extending from the first leg in a second direction. The second leg extends from and is adjacent to the second end edge of the wall. The second leg has at least one piercing member extending from the second leg in a first direction. In another embodiment, the second leg may include at least one piercing member extending from the second leg in a second direction. The second leg is preferably spaced apart from the first leg, such that a gap is formed between the first leg and the second leg. The mounting member extends from the second side edge of the wall and may be a U-shaped or J-shaped member capable of coupling the coupling clamp to the metal structure.

[0007] In another exemplary embodiment, the coupling clamp includes a conductive body, a conductive first leg, a conductive second leg, and a conductive mounting member. The conductive body has at least one conductive wall. Each of the at least one wall has a first side edge, a second side edge, a first end edge, and a second end edge. The conductive first leg extends from the first edge of the at least one wall and is adjacent to the first end edge of the body. The first leg has at least one piercing member extending from the first leg in a first direction and at least one piercing member extending from the first leg in a second direction. The conductive second leg extends from the first edge of the at least one wall and is adjacent to the second end edge of the body. The second leg has at least one piercing member extending from the second leg in the first direction and at least one piercing member extending from the second leg in the second direction. The second leg is spaced apart from the first leg, such that a gap is formed between the first leg and the second leg. The conductive mounting member extends from the second side edge of the body and may be a U-shaped or J-shaped member capable of connecting the coupling clamp to a metal structure.

[0008] In another exemplary embodiment, the coupling clamp includes a conductive body having a first sidewall, a second sidewall, a first leg between the first and second sidewalls, and a second leg between the first and second sidewalls. The second leg is spaced apart from the first leg, such that a gap is formed between the first and second legs. The coupling clamp also includes at least one piercing member extending from the first leg of the body along a first direction and / or a second direction, and at least one piercing member extending from the second leg of the body along the first and / or second directions. The coupling clamp has a first conductive mounting member extending from the first sidewall of the body, and a second conductive mounting member extending from the second sidewall of the body. Attached Figure Description

[0009] The accompanying drawings depict embodiments for illustrative purposes only. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize from the following description that alternative embodiments of the structures shown herein can be employed without departing from the principles described herein, wherein:

[0010] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the coupling fixture according to the present disclosure;

[0011] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of the coupling fixture according to the present disclosure;

[0012] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A side view of the coupling fixture shows the perforations that divide the coupling fixture into a first fixture segment and a second fixture segment;

[0013] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A side view of the combined clamp, wherein the perforation breaks, causing the first clamp segment to separate from the second clamp segment;

[0014] Figure 5 This is a side view of another exemplary embodiment of the coupling clamp according to the present disclosure, showing a piercing member extending from the bottom surface of the leg of the coupling clamp;

[0015] Figure 6 This is a side view of another exemplary embodiment of the coupling clamp according to the present disclosure, showing a piercing member extending from the top surface of the leg of the coupling clamp;

[0016] Figure 7 yes Figure 2 A top view of the combined clamp;

[0017] Figure 8 yes Figure 2 Bottom view of the assembly fixture;

[0018] Figure 9a yes Figure 2The end view of the folding clamp before the legs of the folding clamp;

[0019] Figure 9b yes Figure 9a An end view of the coupling fixture shows that the legs of the coupling fixture are folded.

[0020] Figure 9c yes Figure 9a An end view of the coupling fixture shows that the legs of the coupling fixture are folded.

[0021] Figure 9d yes Figure 2 An end view of the coupling clamp, wherein the legs of the coupling clamp are folded, and one or more piercing members are shown facing a first direction relative to the legs of the coupling clamp, and one or more piercing members are facing a second direction relative to the legs of the coupling clamp.

[0022] Figure 9e yes Figure 9a A perspective view of a portion of the bonding jig taken from detail 9e shows an exemplary embodiment of a piercing member for piercing a protective coating on a metal structure to establish a conductive path between the bonding jig and the metal structure.

[0023] Figure 9f yes Figure 9d A partial cross-sectional view of a portion of the joining fixture, taken from details 9f and 9g, and showing... Figure 9e The piercing component is oriented towards the first and second directions;

[0024] Figure 9g yes Figure 9d A partial cross-sectional view of a portion of the combined jig taken from details 9f and 9g, and another exemplary embodiment of a piercing member for piercing a protective coating on a metal structure is shown;

[0025] Figure 10 This is an end view of another exemplary embodiment of the coupling clamp according to the present disclosure, showing that the legs of the coupling clamp are folded, wherein one or more piercing members are oriented in a first direction relative to the legs of the coupling clamp, one or more piercing members are oriented in a second direction relative to the legs of the coupling clamp, and one or more retaining members are used to hold the coupling clamp in place during installation.

[0026] Figure 11 This is a perspective view of a cable management system installed in a data center, where one or more cable tray assemblies are connected to multiple splice assemblies and used... Figure 2 The clamps are used for assembly;

[0027] Figure 12This is a bottom view of two metal cable tray assemblies, which are connected to two splicing assemblies and used... Figure 2 The clamps are used for assembly;

[0028] Figure 13 yes Figure 12 An enlarged perspective view of a portion of the two metal rails of the cable tray assembly, taken from detail 13, and showing the docking assembly that connects the rails of the cable tray assembly.

[0029] Figure 14a It is Figure 13 An exploded side perspective view of the track connection docking assembly, showing the... Figure 1 An exemplary sequence is used to install the coupling clamp into the first splicing bracket of the docking assembly, position the track to be inserted into the first splicing bracket, and position the second splicing bracket of the docking assembly to be inserted into the track.

[0030] Figure 14b yes Figure 14a A partial cross-sectional side perspective view of the first splicing bracket shows the connecting clamp inserted into the first splicing bracket;

[0031] Figure 14c yes Figure 14b An end view of a portion of the first splicing bracket and the connecting clamp;

[0032] Figure 15 It is Figure 13 An enlarged side view of a partial cross-section of the docking assembly that connects the cable tray assembly to the track shows the coupling clamp inserted between the first splicing bracket and the track;

[0033] Figure 16 yes Figure 15 A cross-sectional view of a portion of the track and splicing bracket taken along line 16-16 shows the protective coating cut through the track and splicing bracket by the piercing component.

[0034] Figure 17 This is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of the coupling fixture according to the present disclosure;

[0035] Figure 18 yes Figure 17 A perspective view of a coupling clamp, wherein the first sidewall of the coupling clamp is cut off to expose multiple piercing components of the coupling clamp;

[0036] Figure 19 yes Figure 17 A top view of the combined clamp;

[0037] Figure 20a yes Figure 17 End view of the clamping fixture;

[0038] Figure 20b yes Figure 17 An end view of another exemplary embodiment of the coupling fixture;

[0039] Figure 21 It uses T-shaped connector splicing components to connect them together and uses Figure 4 Bottom view of a portion of two metal cable tray assemblies where the first and second clamping sections are joined;

[0040] Figure 22 yes Figure 21 A side view of a portion of two metal cable tray assemblies taken along line 22-22;

[0041] Figure 23 This is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of the splicing assembly and coupling fixture according to the present disclosure;

[0042] Figure 24 yes Figure 23 Bottom view of the first splicing bracket of the splicing assembly;

[0043] Figure 25 yes Figure 24 A top view of the first splicing bracket, showing the connection to the first splicing bracket. Figure 21 The assembly fixture;

[0044] Figure 26 yes Figure 25 A side view of the first splicing bracket and clamp segment taken along line 26-26;

[0045] Figure 27 yes Figure 24 A side view of the first splicing bracket and clamp segment taken along line 27-27; and

[0046] Figure 28 yes Figure 25 A side view of the first splicing bracket and the connecting clamp taken along line 28-28. Detailed Implementation

[0047] This disclosure provides a description of embodiments of a bonding clamp for electrically bonding with a metal structure forming a cable tray assembly for supporting cables and / or communication cables, such as in a data center. The bonding clamp according to this disclosure is formed of a conductive material and includes one or more piercing members for piercing or cutting through a protective non-conductive coating on the metal structure. The bonding clamp can be manufactured as a single, integral structure, or it can be manufactured as separate components joined together, for example, by welded joints.

[0048] The metal structures contemplated in this disclosure include, but are not limited to, metal structures connected together using metal splice brackets. Non-limiting examples of metal structures include metal track segments for forming cable tray assemblies and metal splice brackets for connecting the metal track segments. For ease of description, the metal structure may also be referred to herein as the plural form "structure" and the singular form "structure". Non-conductive materials coated on the metal structure may include oxides, paints, anodization, powder coatings, epoxy resins, and enamels. For ease of description, protective coatings of non-conductive materials may also be referred to herein as the plural form "protective coating" and the singular form "protective coating".

[0049] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 An exemplary embodiment of the coupling clamp according to the present disclosure is shown. Figure 1 In an exemplary embodiment, the clamp 10 may be an integral structure including a body 12 with sidewalls 13, a first leg 14, a second leg 16, and a mounting member 18. Figure 2 In an exemplary embodiment, the clamp 10 may be an integral structure including a body 12 with sidewalls 13, a first leg 14, a second leg 16, a mounting member 18, and a through hole 20. See also Figure 3 and Figure 4 The perforation 20 allows the body 12 to be divided into a first clamping segment 22 and a second clamping segment 24. For example... Figure 4 As shown, the first clamping section 22 includes a portion 12a of the body 12, a first leg 14, and a portion 18a of the mounting member 18. The second clamping section 24 includes a portion 12b of the body 12, a second leg 16, and a portion 18b of the mounting member 18. It should be noted that the clamping fixture 10 can also be made of separate components joined together, for example, by welded joints, mechanical fasteners, and / or adhesives.

[0050] Continue to refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 In one embodiment, the sidewall 13 of the body 12 has a first (or bottom) side edge 13a, a second (or top) side edge 13b, a first end edge 13c, and a second end edge 13d. The body 12 has a length "L1" which can be configured and sized to fit into a splicing bracket (e.g., see...). Figure 11 and Figure 12 Within the splicing bracket 212 or 214, the splicing bracket is used to connect the metal rails of the cable tray assembly 202 (see, for example, see...). Figure 11 and Figure 12 (tracks 204 or 206 in the original text). For example, the length of the body, "L1," can range from approximately 1 inch to approximately 6 inches. See also... Figure 13The main body 12 has a height "H1", which can be constructed and sized to fit within the splicing bracket 212 or 214. For example, the height "H1" of the main body 12 can be in the range of about 0.25 inches to about 1 inch.

[0051] The first leg 14 extends from the first side edge 13a of the sidewall 13 of the body 12 and is adjacent to the first end edge 13c. Preferably, the first leg 14 extends from the first side edge 13a of the sidewall 13 at a 90-degree angle, such that the first leg 14 is perpendicular to the sidewall 13. However, the first leg 14 may extend from the first side edge 13a of the sidewall 13 at any angle that matches the construction of the metal structure to be attached to the clamp 10. In the exemplary embodiment shown, similar to Figures 9d to 9d As shown, the first leg 14 is formed by folding a portion of the first leg 14 back onto itself. As... Figure 13 As shown, the first leg 14 has a length "L2", which can be constructed and sized to fit within the splicing bracket 212 or 214. For example, the length "L2" of the first leg 14 can range from approximately 0.25 inches to approximately 1.5 inches. Figure 13 and Figure 14a As shown, the first leg 14 has a width “W1”, which can be configured and sized to fit within the splicing bracket 212 or 214. For example, the width “W1” of the first leg 14 can be in the range of about 0.25 inches to about 0.5 inches.

[0052] The second leg 16 extends from the first side edge 13a of the sidewall 13 of the body 12 and is adjacent to the second end edge 13d. Preferably, the second leg 16 extends from the first side edge 13a of the sidewall 13 at a 90-degree angle, such that the second leg 16 is perpendicular to the body 12. However, the second leg 16 may extend from the first side edge 13a of the sidewall 13 at any angle that matches the construction of the metal structure to be attached to the clamp 10. Preferably, the second leg 16 extends from the sidewall 13 in the same direction as the first leg 14. In another embodiment, the second leg 16 may extend from the sidewall 13 in other directions (such as in the opposite direction to the first leg 14). In the exemplary embodiments shown, as Figures 9a to 9d As shown, the second leg 16 is formed by folding a portion of the second leg 16 back onto itself. (As...) Figure 13 and Figure 14a As shown, the second leg 16 has a length "L3", which can be constructed and sized to fit within the splicing bracket 212 or 214. For example, the length "L3" of the second leg 16 can range from approximately 0.25 inches to approximately 1.5 inches. Figure 13 and Figure 14aAs shown, the second leg 16 has a width "W2", which can be configured and sized to fit within the splicing bracket 212 or 214. For example, the width "W2" of the second leg 16 can be in the range of about 0.25 inches to about 0.5 inches. The length "L2" of the first leg 14 can be the same as the length "L3" of the second leg 16, or the length "L2" of the first leg 14 can be greater than or less than the length "L3" of the second leg 16. Similarly, the width "W1" of the first leg 14 can be the same as the width "W2" of the second leg 16, or the width "W1" of the first leg 14 can be greater than or less than the width "W2" of the second leg 16. In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, see [link to example]. Figure 7 and Figure 8 The first leg 14 is spaced apart from the second leg 16 to form a gap "G" between legs 14 and 16. See also Figure 12 The gap “G” allows fasteners to secure splice brackets 212 or 214 to the rails 204 or 206 of the cable tray assembly 202, passing through the legs 14 and 16 of the coupling clamp 10.

[0053] Now go to Figure 9e , Figure 9f and Figure 9g Each of the legs 14 and 16 of the clamp 10 also has one or more piercing members 30 extending from the legs 14 and / or 16. The piercing members 30 are configured to cut through or pierce the metal structure 200 of the clamp 10 to be attached (e.g., Figure 11 (As shown) or multiple protective coatings on metal structures. The piercing member 30 is a toothed protrusion that can pierce the protective coating on the metal structure 200 to contact the metal beneath the protective coating, thereby creating a conductive path between the piercing member 30 and the metal structure 200. For example, each piercing member 30 can be a raised surface 32 extending from the bottom surfaces 14a and / or 16a of the respective legs 14 and / or 16. The raised surface 32 has a central opening 34 forming an edge 36 with one or more sharp edges that allow the piercing member 30 to cut or pierce the protective coating on the metal structure 200. It should be noted that the raised surface 32, the central opening 34, and the edge 36 are sometimes referred to in the industry as a "volcano-shaped structure." See, for example, [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 9e and Figure 9f Each piercing member 30 may be an integral circular or other shaped tooth or structure capable of cutting or piercing the protective coating on the metal structure 200. In another exemplary embodiment, see [link to example]. Figure 9gEach piercing member 30 may be an integral circular or other shaped tooth or structure with serrated edges 36, capable of cutting or piercing the protective coating on the metal structure 200. The piercing members 30 may be extruded from the legs 14 and 16, or the piercing members 30 may be secured to the legs 14 and 16 by, for example, welded joints. Although the illustrated embodiment has multiple piercing members 30 extending from the surfaces of the legs 14 and 16, a single piercing member 30 extending from the surfaces of the legs 14 and 16 may also exist.

[0054] exist Figure 3 In an exemplary embodiment, such as Figures 9a to 9d As shown, the first leg 14 and the second leg 16 are formed by folding a portion of the leg back onto itself. Figures 9a to 9d In the end view, the leg shown is leg 16. See also Figure 9d By folding the leg 16 back onto itself, the edges 36 of one or more piercing members 30 can extend in a first direction (e.g., along the direction of the second (or top) side edge 13b toward the side wall 13 of the body 12), and the edges 36 of one or more piercing members 30 can extend in a second direction (e.g., along the direction of the first (or bottom) side edge 13a away from the side wall 13 of the body 12). Figure 5 In an exemplary embodiment, the legs 14 or 16 may not fold back onto themselves, such that one or more piercing members 30 extend from the bottom surface 14a of the first leg 14, and one or more piercing members 30 extend from the bottom surface 16a of the second leg 16. Figure 6 In an exemplary embodiment, the legs 14 or 16 may not be folded back onto themselves, such that one or more piercing members 30 extend from the top surface 14b of the first leg 14, and one or more piercing members 30 extend from the top surface 16b of the second leg 16.

[0055] Reference Figure 2 and Figure 9d Mounting member 18 is configured to connect the coupling clamp 10 to the cable tray assembly (e.g., see...). Figure 11 The splicing brackets (e.g., splicing brackets 212 or 214) of the cable tray assembly 202a or 202b. Figure 2 and Figure 9d In the exemplary embodiment shown, the mounting member 18 extends from the second side edge 13b of the side wall 13 of the body 12 and can be configured and sized to fit into the side wall of the splicing bracket 212 or 214 of the cable tray assembly 202. Figure 2 and Figure 9d The mounting component 18 is a J-shaped or U-shaped structure, which can be used in splicing brackets (e.g., see...). Figure 16The splicing bracket 212 slides on its side wall. However, the mounting member 18 can be constructed and sized to allow for connection of the coupling clamp 10 to the splicing bracket 212 by other structures. Figure 10 In another embodiment shown, the mounting member 18 may further include one or more clamping members 19 that can clamp the sidewall of the splicing bracket (e.g., splicing bracket 212) to at least temporarily hold the coupling clamp 10 in place relative to the splicing bracket 212.

[0056] Now go to Figures 11 to 16 The illustration shows the mounting of the clamp 10 to a metal structure 200. In this exemplary embodiment, the metal structure 200 is a cable management system in which two cable tray assemblies 202 (distinguished as 202a and 202b) are connected together using one or more splicing assemblies 210. In this exemplary embodiment, cable tray assemblies 202, 202a, and 202b are ladder-type cable tray assemblies. Each cable tray assembly 202 includes a pair of parallel rails 204 and 206, and one or more cross braces 208 extending between the rails 204 and 206. When the cable tray assemblies 202 are connected, the rails 204 and 206 of each cable tray assembly 202 are connected together. More specifically, the rail 204 of one cable tray assembly 202 is connected to the rail 204 of another cable tray assembly 202, and the rail 206 of one cable tray assembly 202 is connected to the rail 206 of another cable tray assembly 202. See also Figure 13 The docking assembly 210 is used to connect tracks 204 and 206 together. In an exemplary embodiment, the docking assembly 210 includes a first splicing bracket 212, a second splicing bracket 214, and a fastener assembly 216 extending between the first splicing bracket 212 and the second splicing bracket 214.

[0057] Continue to refer to Figures 13 to 16 In order to connect the rail 206 of cable tray assembly 202a to the rail 206 of cable tray assembly 202b, as follows Figure 14a As shown in step 1, the connecting clamp 10 is first inserted into the channel 213 in the first splicing bracket 212 (see...). Figure 14c In this process, the piercing member 30 extending in the first direction of the legs 14 and 16 of the clamping fixture 10 contacts the bottom surface 212a of the first splicing bracket 212. Then, as... Figure 14a As shown in step 2, the end of the track 206 is positioned within the channel 213 of the first splicing bracket 212, such that the bottom surface 206a of the track 206 contacts the piercing member 30 extending from the legs 14 and 16 toward the second direction. Figure 14aAs shown in step 3, a channel (similar to channel 212a) in the second splicing bracket 214 is positioned on the top side 206b of each end of the track 206. In this exemplary embodiment, the fastener assembly 216 includes a bolt 218 and a nut 220, wherein the bolt 218 passes through a hole in the first splicing bracket 212, through an end of the track 206, and through a hole in the second splicing bracket 214. The nut 220 is then screwed onto the bolt 218 and tightened. See also Figure 15 and Figure 16 As the nut 220 is tightened, the piercing member 30, which is in contact with the bottom surface 212a of the first splicing bracket 212 and the protective coating on the track 206, cuts or pierces the protective coating until the piercing member 30 contacts the bare metal below the protective coating to form a conductive path between the track 206 and the first splicing bracket 212.

[0058] When one end of at least one of the tracks 204 and 206 in the cable management system 200 is properly connected to ground, the conductive path between track 206 and the first splice bracket 212 facilitates the bonding of the cable management system 200. It should be noted that the same installation process should be followed when installing the bonding clamp 10 into the mating splice assembly 210 that connects the ends of track 204. It should also be noted that this disclosure contemplates that the bonding clamp 10 can be installed in the second splice bracket 214 in a similar manner to the installation of the bonding clamp 10 in the first splice bracket 212 described above.

[0059] Now turn to Figures 17 to 19 , Figure 20a and Figure 20b This illustrates another exemplary embodiment of the coupling clamp according to the present disclosure. In this exemplary embodiment, the coupling clamp 50 may be an integral construction comprising a body 52 having a first leg 54, a second leg 56, a first mounting member 58, and a second mounting member 60. In this exemplary embodiment, the body 52 is a U-shaped structure having a first sidewall 62 and a second sidewall 64. It should be noted that the coupling clamp 50 may also be made of separate components joined together using, for example, welded joints, mechanical fasteners, and / or adhesives.

[0060] The first sidewall 62 of the main body 52 has a first (or bottom) side edge 62a, a second (or top) side edge 62b, a first end edge 62c, and a second end edge 62d. The second sidewall 64 of the main body 52 has a first (or bottom) side edge 64a, a second (or top) side edge 64b, a first end edge 66c, and a second end edge 64d. See also Figure 13 and Figure 14aThe main body 52 has a length "L1" which can be constructed and sized to fit within a splicing bracket (e.g., splicing bracket 212 or 214) for connecting the metal rails of the cable tray assembly 202 (e.g., see...). Figure 11 and Figure 12 (Railway 204 or 206). For example, the length "L1" of the body 52 can range from about 1 inch to about 6 inches. See Figure 13 and Figure 14a The main body 52 has a height "H1", which can be constructed and sized to fit within the splicing bracket 212 or 214. For example, the height "H1" of the main body 52 can be in the range of about 0.25 inches to about 1 inch.

[0061] In this exemplary embodiment, the first leg 54 extends between the first side edge 62a of the first sidewall 62 and the first side edge 64a of the second sidewall 64. The first leg 54 is positioned adjacent to the first end edges 62c and 64c. Preferably, the first leg 54 extends from the first side edge 62a of the first sidewall 62 to the first side edge 64a of the second sidewall 64 at a 90-degree angle, such that the first leg 54 is perpendicular to the sidewalls 62 and 64. However, the first leg 14 may extend from the first side edge 62a of the sidewall 62 to the first side edge 64a of the second sidewall 64 at any angle that matches the construction of the metal structure 200 of the clamping fixture 50 to be attached. Figure 13 and Figure 14a As shown, the first leg 54 has a length "L2", which can be constructed and sized to fit within the splicing bracket 212 or 214. For example, the length "L2" of the first leg 54 can range from approximately 0.25 inches to approximately 1.5 inches. Figure 13 and Figure 14a As shown, the first leg 54 has a width “W1”, which can be configured and sized to fit within the splicing bracket 212 or 214. For example, the width “W1” of the first leg 54 can be in the range of about 0.25 inches to about 0.5 inches.

[0062] The second leg 56 extends between the first side edge 62a of the first sidewall 62 and the first side edge 64a of the second sidewall 64. The second leg 56 is positioned adjacent to the second end edges 62d and 64d. Preferably, the second leg 56 extends from the first side edge 62a of the first sidewall 62 to the first side edge 64a of the second sidewall 64 at a 90-degree angle, such that the second leg 56 is perpendicular to the body 12. However, the second leg 56 may extend from the first side edge 62a of the sidewall 62 to the first side edge 64a of the second sidewall 64 at any angle that matches the construction of the metal structure 200 to which the attachment clamp 50 is to be attached. Figure 13and Figure 14a As shown, the second leg 56 has a length "L3", which can be constructed and sized to fit within the splicing bracket 212 or 214. For example, the length "L3" of the second leg 56 can range from approximately 0.25 inches to approximately 1.5 inches. Figure 13 and Figure 14a As shown, the second leg 56 has a width "W2", which can be configured and sized to fit within the splicing bracket 212 or 214. For example, the width "W2" of the second leg 56 can be in the range of about 0.25 inches to about 0.5 inches. The length "L2" of the first leg 54 can be the same as the length "L3" of the second leg 56, or the length "L2" of the first leg 54 can be greater than or less than the length "L3" of the second leg 56. Similarly, the width "W1" of the first leg 54 can be the same as the width "W2" of the second leg 56, or the width "W1" of the first leg 54 can be greater than or less than the width "W2" of the second leg 56. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the first leg 54 and the second leg 56 are spaced apart to form a gap "G" between the legs 54 and 56. The gap “G” allows fasteners to secure splice brackets 212 or 214 to the rails 204 or 206 of the cable tray assembly 202, passing through the legs 54 and 56 of the coupling clamp 10.

[0063] Continue to refer to Figures 17 to 2Each of the legs 54 and 56 of the clamp 50 also has one or more piercing members 30 extending from the legs 54 and / or 56. The piercing members 30 are configured to cut through or pierce a protective coating on the metal structure or multiple metal structures to which the clamp 50 is to be attached. The piercing member 30 is a toothed protrusion that can pierce the protective coating on the metal structure 200 to contact the metal beneath the protective coating, thereby creating a conductive path between the piercing member 30 and the metal structure 200. For example, each piercing member 30 may be a raised surface 32 extending from the bottom surfaces 54a and / or 56a of the respective legs 54 and / or 56. The raised surface 32 has a central opening 34 that forms an edge 36 with one or more sharp edges, which allows the piercing member 30 to cut through or pierce the protective coating on the metal structure 200. It should be noted that the raised surface 32, the central opening 34, and the edge 36 are sometimes referred to in the industry as a "volcano-shaped structure." Referring, for example, to Figures 9E and 9F, each piercing member 30 may be an integral circular or other shaped tooth or structure capable of cutting or piercing the protective coating on the metal structure 200. In another exemplary embodiment, referring to Figure 9G, each piercing member 30 may also be an integral circular or other shaped tooth or structure with serrated edges 36 capable of cutting or piercing the protective coating on the metal structure 200. The piercing members 30 may be extruded from the legs 54 and 56, or the piercing members 30 may be secured to the legs 54 and 56 by, for example, welded joints. Although the illustrated embodiment has multiple piercing members 30 extending from the surfaces of the legs 54 and 56, a single piercing member 30 extending from the surfaces of the legs 54 and 56 may also be present. Figures 17 to 2 In an exemplary embodiment of 0, see [example 1]. Figure 17 and Figure 19 One or more of the plurality of piercing members 30 extend along a first direction, and one or more of the plurality of piercing members 30 extend along a second direction. However, in other embodiments, one or more of the piercing members 30 may extend from the bottom surface 54a of the first leg 54, and one or more of the piercing members 30 may extend from the bottom surface 56a of the second leg 56. In other embodiments, one or more piercing members 30 may extend from the top surface 54b of the first leg 54, and one or more piercing members 30 may extend from the top surface 56b of the second leg 56.

[0064] Mounting components 58 and 60 are configured to combine clamp 50 with cable tray assembly (e.g., see...). Figure 11 and Figure 22 The cable tray assembly 202a or 202b is connected to the splicing brackets (e.g., splicing brackets 212 or 214). Figure 17 and Figure 20aIn the exemplary embodiment shown, mounting member 58 extends from the second side edge 62b of sidewall 62, and mounting member 60 extends from the second side edge 64b of sidewall 64. Mounting members 58 and 60 may be configured and sized to fit onto the sidewall of the splicing bracket 212 or 214 of the cable tray assembly 202a or 202b. See also Figure 20a Mounting members 58 and 60 are J-shaped or U-shaped structures that can slide on the sidewalls of the splicing bracket (e.g., splicing bracket 212). However, mounting members 58 and 60 can be configured and sized to engage the coupling clamp 50 with splicing brackets 212 or 214 in other ways. Figure 10 In another embodiment shown, see Figure 20b The mounting components 58 and 60 may also include one or more clamping components 70 and 72, which may clamp the sidewall of the splicing bracket (e.g., splicing bracket 212) to at least temporarily hold the coupling clamp 50 in place relative to the splicing bracket 212.

[0065] Now refer to Figures 21 to 28 This illustrates another exemplary embodiment using the coupling clamp 10. In this exemplary embodiment, see [link to example]. Figure 4 The clamp 10 is divided into a first clamp section 22 and a second clamp section 24. As described above, the first clamp section 22 includes a main body 12a, a first leg 14, and a mounting member 18a. The second clamp section 24 includes a main body 12b, a second leg 16, and a mounting member 18b. In this exemplary embodiment, a T-shaped connecting splice assembly 230 is used to connect the tracks 204 and 206 of the two cable tray assemblies 202a or 202b together. See also... Figure 21 A T-connector splicing assembly 230 is used to vertically connect one cable tray assembly 202a to another cable tray assembly 202b. In other words, the T-connector splicing assembly 230 forms a 90-degree splice between cable tray assemblies 202a and 202b.

[0066] Reference Figure 23 In one exemplary embodiment, the T-shaped splicing assembly 230 includes a first splicing bracket 232, a second splicing bracket 234, and a fastener assembly 236. For example... Figures 21 to 23As shown, fastener assembly 236 extends between first splicing bracket 232 and second splicing bracket 234 and is used to secure the first splicing bracket 232 and second splicing bracket 234 to the rails of cable tray assembly 202. T-shaped splicing assemblies 230 are known in the art, and splicing brackets 232 and 234 are typically shaped to form a 90-degree connection. In the illustrated embodiment, the first splicing bracket 232 and second splicing bracket 234 of the T-shaped splicing assembly 230 are substantially identical. Each of splicing brackets 232 and 234 includes a body 240 and a pair of guide rails 242 and 244. The body 240 also includes a hole 246 through which a portion of fastener assembly 236 passes, allowing the first splicing bracket 232, the second splicing bracket 234, and the rails 204 and / or 206 of cable tray assemblies 202a and 202b to be attached together. Each of rails 242 and 244 includes a channel 248 configured to accommodate rail 204 or 206 of cable tray assembly 202.

[0067] For ease of description, the attachment of tracks 204 and 206 of cable tray assembly 202a to track 204 of cable tray assembly 202b will be described with the clamping fixture 10 installed in the first splicing bracket 232 (see [link to description]). Figure 11 However, the clamping fixture 10 can be installed in the second splicing bracket 234 instead of the first splicing bracket 232, or the clamping fixture 10 can be installed in both the first splicing bracket 232 and the second splicing bracket 234. Figure 19 and Figure 22 As shown, in order to connect the rail 204 of cable tray assembly 202a to the rail 204 of cable tray assembly 202b, as follows: Figure 25 and Figure 26 As shown, the clamping fixture 10 is first inserted into each channel 248 of the guide rails 242 and 244 of the first splicing bracket 232, such that the piercing members 30 of the legs 14 and 16 extending in the first direction contact the inner surfaces 242a or 244a of the guide rails 242 and 244, respectively. Figures 21 to 23As shown, the end of the track 204 of the cable tray assembly 202a is positioned within the channel 248 of the guide rail 244 of the first splicing bracket 232, such that the bottom surface 204a of the track 204 contacts the piercing member 30 extending from the leg 14 toward the second direction. Similarly, the track 204 of the cable tray assembly 202b is positioned within the channel 248 of the guide rail 242 of the first splicing bracket 232, such that the bottom surface 204a of the track 204 contacts the piercing member 30 extending from the leg 14 toward the second direction. The channel 248 in the guide rail 244 of the second splicing bracket 234 is located on the top side 204b of the track 204 of the cable tray assembly 202a, and the channel 248 in the guide rail 242 of the second splicing bracket 234 is located on the top side of the track 204 of the cable tray assembly 202b. In this exemplary embodiment, as... Figure 23 As shown, the fastener assembly 236 includes a bolt 260, a nut 262, and a washer 264, wherein the bolt 260 passes through a hole 246 in the first splice bracket 232 and through a hole 246 in the second splice bracket 234. The washer 264 is inserted into the free end of the bolt 260, and the nut 262 is screwed onto the bolt 260 and tightened. Similar to Figure 14C, as the nut 262 is tightened, a piercing member 30, in contact with the protective coating on the first splice bracket 232 and the track 204, cuts through or pierces the protective coating until the piercing member 30 contacts the bare metal beneath the protective coating to form a conductive path between the track 204 and the first splice bracket 232.

[0068] Continue to refer to Figures 21 to 28 To connect the rail 206 of cable tray assembly 202a to the rail 204 of cable tray assembly 202b, see [reference needed]. Figure 26 First, the clamping fixture 10 is inserted into each channel 248 of the guide rails 242 and 244 of the first splicing bracket 232, so that... Figure 23 and Figure 26 As shown, the piercing members 30 extending along the first direction of the legs 14 and 16 contact the inner surfaces 242a or 244a of the guide rails 242 and 244, respectively. Figure 21 and Figure 23As shown, the end of the track 206 of the cable tray assembly 202a is positioned within the channel 248 of the guide rail 244 of the first splicing bracket 232, such that the bottom surface 204a of the track 204 contacts the piercing member 30 extending from the leg 14 toward the second direction. Similarly, the track 204 of the cable tray assembly 202b is positioned within the channel 248 of the guide rail 242 of the first splicing bracket 232, such that the bottom surface 204a of the track 204 contacts the piercing member 30 extending from the leg 14 toward the second direction. The channel 248 in the guide rail 244 of the second splicing bracket 234 is positioned on the top side 204b of the track 206 of the cable tray assembly 202a, and the channel 248 in the track guide 242 of the second splicing bracket 234 is positioned on the top side of the track 204 of the cable tray assembly 202b. See also Figure 23 The bolt 260 of the fastener assembly 236 passes through holes 246 in the first splice bracket 232 and 246 in the second splice bracket 234. A washer 264 is inserted into the free end of the bolt 260, and then a nut 262 is screwed onto the bolt 260 and tightened. Similar to Figure 14C, as the nut 262 is tightened, a piercing member 30, in contact with the protective coating on the first splice bracket 232, rails 204 and 206, cuts through or pierces the protective coating until the piercing member 30 contacts the bare metal beneath the protective coating, thus forming a conductive path between rails 204, rails 206 and the first splice bracket 232. This conductive path between rails 204 and 206 and the first splice bracket 232 facilitates the bonding of the cable management system 200 when one end of at least one rail 204 or 206 in the cable management system 200 is properly connected to ground.

[0069] Although illustrative embodiments of the present disclosure have been described and illustrated above, it should be understood that these are exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure and should not be considered limiting. Additions, deletions, substitutions, and other modifications may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the present disclosure should not be considered limited to the foregoing description.

Claims

1. A coupling clamp for engaging with a metal structure connected using a metal splicing bracket, the coupling clamp comprising: A conductive body having a first side edge, a second side edge, a first end edge, and a second end edge; A conductive first leg extends from the first side edge of the body and is adjacent to the first end edge, the first leg having at least one piercing member extending from the first leg in a first direction; A conductive second leg extending from the first side edge of the body and adjacent to the second end edge, the second leg having at least one piercing member extending from the second leg along the first direction, wherein the second leg is spaced apart from the first leg; and A conductive mounting member extends from the second side edge of the body. The first leg and the second leg are respectively formed as flat plates and mate with the bottom surface of the metal splicing bracket, and the mounting member is configured to mate with the side wall of the metal splicing bracket.

2. The coupling fixture according to claim 1, wherein, The first leg has at least one piercing member extending from the first leg in a second direction.

3. The coupling fixture according to claim 2, wherein, The second leg has at least one piercing member extending from the second leg along the second direction.

4. The coupling fixture according to claim 1, wherein, The at least one piercing member extending from the first leg and the at least one piercing member extending from the second leg include toothed protrusions capable of piercing the protective coating on the metal structure.

5. The coupling fixture according to claim 4, wherein, The toothed protrusion includes a raised surface having a central opening forming an edge, the edge having at least one sharp edge.

6. The coupling fixture according to claim 1, wherein, The conductive mounting component includes a U-shaped component.

7. The coupling fixture according to claim 1, wherein, The conductive mounting member includes one or more clamping members for clamping the metal structure.

8. The coupling fixture according to claim 1, wherein, The conductive body includes a plurality of perforations extending at least from the first side edge of the conductive body to the second side edge.

9. A coupling clamp for engaging with a metal structure connected using a metal splicing bracket, the coupling clamp comprising: A conductive body having at least one conductive wall, each of the at least one wall having a first side edge, a second side edge, a first end edge, and a second end edge; A conductive first leg extends from the first side edge of the at least one wall and is adjacent to the first end edge, the first leg having at least one piercing member extending from the first leg in a first direction and at least one piercing member extending from the first leg in a second direction. A conductive second leg extending from the first side edge of the at least one wall and adjacent to the second end edge, the second leg having at least one piercing member extending from the second leg along the first direction and at least one piercing member extending from the second leg along the second direction, wherein the second leg is spaced apart from the first leg; and A conductive mounting member extends from the second side edge of the body. The first leg and the second leg are respectively formed as flat plates and mate with the bottom surface of the metal splicing bracket, and the mounting member is configured to mate with the side wall of the metal splicing bracket.

10. The coupling fixture according to claim 9, wherein, The at least one piercing member extending from the first leg along the first direction and the at least one piercing member extending from the first leg along the second direction include toothed protrusions capable of piercing the protective coating on the metal structure.

11. The coupling clamp according to claim 10, wherein, The toothed protrusion includes a raised surface having a central opening forming an edge, the edge having at least one sharp edge.

12. The coupling fixture according to claim 9, wherein, The at least one piercing member extending from the second leg along the first direction and the at least one piercing member extending from the second leg along the second direction include toothed protrusions capable of piercing the protective coating on the metal structure.

13. The coupling clamp according to claim 12, wherein, The toothed protrusion includes a raised surface having a central opening forming an edge, the edge having at least one sharp edge.

14. The coupling fixture according to claim 9, wherein, The conductive mounting component includes a U-shaped component.

15. The coupling fixture according to claim 9, wherein, The conductive mounting member includes one or more clamping members for clamping the metal structure.

16. The coupling fixture according to claim 9, wherein, The conductive body includes a plurality of perforations extending at least from the first side edge of the conductive body to the second side edge.

17. A coupling clamp for engaging with a metal structure joined together using a metal splicing bracket, the coupling clamp comprising: A conductive body having a first sidewall, a second sidewall, a first leg between the first sidewall and the second sidewall, and a second leg between the first sidewall and the second sidewall, the second leg being spaced apart from the first leg to form a gap between the first leg and the second leg; At least one piercing member extending from the first leg along a first direction; At least one piercing member extending from the second leg along the first direction; A first conductive mounting member extends from the first sidewall; as well as A second conductive mounting member extends from the second sidewall. The first leg and the second leg are respectively formed as flat plates and cooperate with the bottom surface of the metal splicing bracket, and the first conductive mounting member and the second conductive mounting member are respectively configured to cooperate with the two side walls of the metal splicing bracket.

18. The binding clamp of claim 17, further comprising at least one piercing member extending from the first leg in a second direction.

19. The binding clamp of claim 18, further comprising at least one piercing member extending from the second leg along the second direction.

20. The coupling fixture according to claim 17, wherein, At least one piercing member extending from the first leg and at least one piercing member extending from the second leg include toothed protrusions capable of piercing the protective coating on the metal structure.

21. The coupling fixture according to claim 20, wherein, The toothed protrusion includes a raised surface having a central opening forming an edge, the edge having at least one sharp edge.

22. The coupling fixture according to claim 17, wherein, The first conductive mounting member and the second conductive mounting member both include U-shaped members.

23. The coupling fixture according to claim 17, wherein, The first conductive mounting member and the second conductive mounting member include one or more clamping members for clamping the metal structure.

Images