Tracer wire holder

Abstract

A tracer wire holder is used to fix a tracer wire along the top of a pipeline before burial. The tracer wire holder is composed of a first section and a second section, and the first section and the second section are connected by a flexible planar middle section. The first section has an outer wall and an inner wall that are generally arcuate. The second section has an outer wall and an inner wall that are generally planar, and a plurality of rib-shaped members extending from the inner wall. A locking device is provided to fix the first section and the second section in a closed locking position. When the first section and the second section are fixed, the first section and the second section form a cavity for receiving and fixing the tracer wire.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of Canadian Patent Application No. 3,086,864, filed on July 15, 2020, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention relates to a tracer wire holder or fastening clip for securing a tracer wire or cable along the top of a pipe prior to burial. Tracer wire, also known as a locator wire or locator wire, is used to assist in locating pipes and other lines after they have been buried underground. Background Art

[0004] Many types of buried pipelines, including water mains, natural gas, propane, sewers, irrigation systems and golf course sprinkler systems, are often made of non-metallic materials. To assist in locating the path of a buried pipeline, a metal tracer wire is attached to the top of the pipeline prior to burial. Use an above ground line tracer device to locate the municipal tracer wire path. This allows for more accurate excavation of the pipeline for maintenance, repair or replacement. It also significantly reduces disruption to the site.

[0005] Many government jurisdictions have established tracer wire standards and specifications. Such standards typically require the use of a continuous tracer wire (such as a copper tracer wire) laid flat on top of the centerline of the pipe and attached at intervals of 3 meters (~10 feet) to 6 meters (~20 feet).

[0006] Installation of traditional tracer wire involves wrapping the wire around the pipe like a Bollinger knot. This method uses an amount of additional wire equal to the circumference of the pipe. For example, on a standard 323.85mm (12") diameter water main with a length of 6 meters (19.7 feet or 236 inches), the circumference is approximately 1.016 meters (40 inches), which means the tracer wire accounts for more than 40 / 236 = 16.949%. This wrapping method is impractical because once the pipe is graded with the laser beam and target, the pipe should not be moved. Wrapping tracer wire around the pipe can also create problems in the middle of the pipe section where, without any support, the tracer wire can sag or fall down the side of the pipe when the bedding is applied around the tracer wire. This can result in poor product delivery and further unnecessary waste of tracer wire.

[0007] Wrapping the tracer wire around the pipe to complete the knot is labor intensive and may increase workplace injuries including back strain and limb injuries because it requires the pipelayer to lift the pipe with one hand while attempting to wrap the tracer wire around the pipe.

[0008] Another method currently used to secure tracer wire to the top of the pipe is to use tape, such as mastic tape. This method is time consuming and can easily lead to pipe fastening failure, especially when the pipe is installed in adverse weather conditions. In most cases, the tape will pull off the pipe and settle to the side of the pipe during the pipe bedding installation process. The work project is then delayed until the wire is dug out, pulled back on top of the pipe and secured again with additional application of tape.

[0009] U.S. Patent No. 7,090,175 describes the use of multiple spaced apart devices to provide 6 inches of spacing between the tracer wire and the pipe. These devices can be placed in a trench next to the pipe. The device snaps onto a pipe section with an outer diameter between 2" and 6".

[0010] The tracer wire holder of the present invention allows a continuous tracer wire to be safely and efficiently laid on top of a pipeline while also reducing labor costs and potential workplace injuries. Summary of the invention

[0011] The tracer wire holder of the present invention is composed of a first section and a second section, and the first section and the second section are connected by a flexible planar middle section. The first section has an outer wall and an inner wall that are generally arcuate, a flexible buckle extending from the inner wall of the first section, and a flange member extending outward from the inner wall of the first section. The second section has an outer wall and an inner wall that are generally planar, and a plurality of rib-shaped members extending from the inner wall. When the first section is folded onto the second section, the first section and the second section form a cavity for receiving and fixing the tracer wire.

[0012] The tracer wire retainer is preferably applied using a peel and stick process to quickly and seamlessly apply the tracer wire retainer to the pipe. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] The present invention may be further understood by referring to the description of the present invention in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0014] Figure 1 is a top perspective view of the tracer wire holder of the present invention in a closed position.

[0015] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Side view of the tracer wire holder.

[0016] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A top perspective view of the tracer wire holder in the open position.

[0017] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A bottom perspective view of a tracer wire holder.

[0018] Figure 5A and Figure 5E is a perspective view of another embodiment of the tracer wire holder of the present invention in a closed position.

[0019] Figure 5B and Figure 5C yes Figure 5A A top perspective view and a bottom perspective view of a tracer wire holder in an open position.

[0020] Figure 5D yes Figure 5A Side view of the tracer wire holder.

[0021] Fig. 6A and Fig. 6E is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of a tracer wire holder of the present invention in a closed position.

[0022] Fig. 6F The use of a positionable extension on the upper end of a tracer wire holder to depress a Fig. 6A Another tracer wire holder snaps on.

[0023] Figure 6B and Figure 6C yes Fig. 6A A top perspective view and a bottom perspective view of a tracer wire holder in an open position.

[0024] Fig.6D yes Fig. 6A Side view of the tracer wire holder.

[0025] Fig. 7A is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of a tracer wire holder of the present invention in a closed position.

[0026] Figure 7B and Figure 7C yes Fig. 7A A top perspective view and a bottom perspective view of a tracer wire holder in an open position.

[0027] Fig.7D yes Fig. 7A Side view of the tracer wire holder.

[0028] Fig. 8A is a perspective view of another embodiment of the tracer wire holder of the present invention in a closed position.

[0029] Figure 8B and Figure 8C yes Fig. 8A A top perspective view and a bottom perspective view of a tracer wire holder in an open position.

[0030] Fig.8D yes Fig. 8A Side view of the tracer wire holder.

[0031] Fig.9A is a perspective view of another embodiment of a tracer wire holder of the present invention.

[0032] Fig. 9B yes Fig.9A End view of the tracer wire holder.

[0033] Fig.10 A tracer wire holder is shown attached to a pipe segment, with a tracer wire held by the tracer wire holder.

[0034] Fig.11 yes Fig.10 A close-up view of the tracer wire holder holding the tracer wire.

[0035] Fig.12 Shows the attached Figure 1 A tracer wire holder is provided in the embodiment of the present invention, wherein the tracer wire is held by the tracer wire holder.

[0036] Fig.13 yes Figure 1 A close-up view of the tracer wire holder holding the tracer wire. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0037] Various aspects of the present disclosure are described below. It is clear that the teachings herein can be implemented in a variety of forms, and any specific structure, function, or both disclosed herein are only representative. Based on the teachings herein, it should be understood by those skilled in the art that a certain aspect disclosed herein can be implemented independently of any other aspect, and two or more of these aspects can be combined in various ways. For example, any number of aspects set forth herein can be used to implement a facility, or to practice a method. In addition, in addition to one or more aspects set forth herein, other structures, functions, or structures and functions can also be used to implement a device or implement such a facility, or to practice such a method.

[0038] The word "exemplary" is used exclusively herein to mean "serving as an example, instance, or illustration." Any embodiment described herein as "exemplary" is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments. Although various aspects of the embodiments are presented in the drawings, the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale unless otherwise noted.

[0039] Exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter will be best understood by reference to the accompanying drawings, in which similar components may (but not in all cases) be represented by the same numerals. It will be readily appreciated that the components of the disclosed subject matter may be arranged and designed in a variety of different configurations, as generally described and illustrated in the drawings herein. Accordingly, the following more detailed description of embodiments of the apparatus, system, and method of the disclosed subject matter, as illustrated in the drawings, is not intended to limit the scope of the disclosed subject matter as claimed, but merely represents exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.

[0040] refer to Figures 1 to 4 The tracer wire holder 1 is composed of a first section 10 and a second section 20, which are connected by a flexible middle section 30. Figure 3 , the first section 10 includes a base with an outer wall surface having a generally arcuate middle portion 41, a first planar end portion 42, and a second first planar end portion 43. The first section has a corresponding inner wall surface 50 with an arcuate middle portion 51, a first planar end portion 52, and a second first planar end portion 53. The inner wall surface 50 has a first end wall 60 and a second end wall 70. The inner wall surface 50 has opposite side walls 80 and 90 along the side periphery. The side wall 80 is composed of side wall portions 80A and 80B and an intermediate side wall portion 80C. The height of the side wall portions 80A and 80B is greater than that of the intermediate side wall portion 80C, thereby forming a middle notch section of the side wall 80. The side wall portions 80A and 80B are adjacent to the end walls 60 and 70, respectively. The opposite side wall 90 is composed of side wall portions 90A and 90B and an intermediate side wall portion 90C. Side wall portions 90A and 90B have a height greater than the middle side wall portion 90C, thereby forming a middle gap section of the side wall 90. Side wall portions 90A and 90B are adjacent to the end walls 60 and 70, respectively. The inner surface of the side wall portion 90B has a flange 100A. A similar flange extends from the inner surface of the side wall portion 80B at a location identified as 100B.

[0041] A locking bracket 110 extends upwardly from a central portion of the end wall 60. The locking bracket 110 has an outwardly extending tab 120 at a first end of the bracket and an inwardly extending flange hook 130 at a second end of the bracket. The locking bracket 110 is disposed adjacent to a slotted hole 140 in the first section 10. The slotted hole is the width of the locking bracket 110.

[0042] The second section 20 has a base having a generally planar outer wall surface 150 and an inner wall surface 160 and an end wall 170. The inner wall surface 160 has opposing side walls 180 and 190 along the circumference. The side wall 180 is composed of side wall portions 180A and 180B and an intermediate side wall portion 180C. The height of the side wall portions 180A and 180B is greater than the intermediate side wall portion 180C, thereby forming a middle notch section of the side wall 180. The side wall 190 is composed of side wall portions 190A and 190B and an intermediate side wall portion 190C. The height of the side wall portions 190A and 190B is greater than the intermediate side wall portion 190C, thereby forming a middle notch section of the side wall 190. The side wall portions 180A and 190A are adjacent to the end wall 170. The width of the second section 20 between the outer surfaces of the side walls is smaller in size than the width of the first section 10 between the inner surfaces of the side walls. The outer surface of the side wall portion 180B has a flange member 200. A similar flange member (not shown) extends from the outer surface of the side wall portion 190B.

[0043] The first set of rib-shaped flanges 210 are arranged on the inner wall surface 160 parallel to the side walls 180 and 190. Optionally, as Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the second set of rib-shaped flanges 220 can be arranged on the inner wall surface 160 parallel to the side walls 180 and 190. The rib-shaped flanges 210 and 200 are separated by a spacing member 230, which is perpendicular to the two sets of rib-shaped flanges and arranged therebetween. The rib-shaped flanges 210 and 220 can have the same height or different heights. Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the different heights allow the tracer wire holder 1 to be used universally in the sewer and water industry, as many municipalities have different line diameters and specifications for different applications. As an example, Figure 2 The side view of FIG. 2 shows cavity openings 240 and 250 of different sizes.

[0044] When the tracer wire holder 1 is locked in the Figure 2 In the closed position shown, the spacing member 230 and the rib flanges 210 and 220 position and retain a tracer wire (not shown) in an appropriate position in either or both of the cavity openings 240 and 250 formed by the middle notch section of the first section 10, the middle notch section of the second section 20, the spacing member 230, the end wall 70 of the second section 20, and the end wall 70 of the first section 10.

[0045] After several tracer wire holders have been fastened to the pipe, the tracer wire is placed on the ribbed flanges 210 and 220 and the holder is then closed into the locked position. The first section 10 is rotated and moved on the second section 20 and pressed onto the second section 20. Figure 3 The tracer wire holder 1 is placed Figure 1 and Figure 2 The locking closed position shown. Pressure causes similar opposing flanges at flanges 100A and 100B to slide over and interlock with flange member 200 and similar opposing flange members. A longitudinal recessed portion 260 is provided on the outside edge of end wall 170 at the adjoining edge of outside surface 150. Recessed portion 260 is sized to receive and retain flange hook 120 of locking bracket 110 after first section 10 is rotated onto second section 20 on intermediate section 30, thereby securing first section 10 with second section 20 in the closed position. When the tracer wire holder is attached to the pipe, securing the first section and second section holds the tracer wire in place.

[0046] The closed tracer wire holder 1 can be reopened in the event of an error during installation. For example, the tracer wire may sometimes not be pulled tight enough, resulting in slack in the wire, which increases the possibility of installation errors. The juxtaposition of the locking bracket 110 and the slotted hole 140 allows the bracket 110 to be slightly rotated toward the hole, thereby allowing the tracer wire holder to be reopened, reducing the possibility of wasting tracer wire. The locking flange hook 120 of the locking bracket 110 is disengaged from the recessed portion 260 by pulling the tab 120 upward. This describes that unlocking the first section 10 from the second section 20 will create more space in the cavities 240 and 250 to allow the tracer wire to be repositioned. In order to completely release the first section 10 from the second section 20, an instrument such as a standard flat head screwdriver can be inserted into the grooves 270 and 280 to disengage the extended flange 100 from the flange member 200A.

[0047] like FIG. 5A to FIG. 5E Another exemplary embodiment shown has a configuration generally similar to Figures 1 to 4The exemplary embodiment shown is similar, but has a different locking mechanism to secure the first section 10 to the second section 20. The first section 10 has a base with an outer wall having a generally arcuate middle portion 41, a first planar end portion 42, and a second first planar end portion 43. The first section has a corresponding inner wall 50 with an arcuate middle portion 51, a first planar end portion 52, and a second first planar end portion 53. The planar end portions 42 and 52 have a first slotted hole 300 therethrough, and the planar end portions 43 and 53 have a second slotted hole 310 therethrough. The inner wall 50 has a first end wall 60 and a second end wall 70. The inner wall 50 has opposing side walls 80 and 90 along the circumference. The side wall 80 is composed of side wall portions 80A and 80B and an intermediate side wall portion 80C. The height of the side wall portions 80A and 80B is greater than the intermediate side wall portion 80C, thereby forming a middle notched section of the side wall 80. Side wall portions 80A and 80B are adjacent to end walls 60 and 70, respectively. Opposing side wall 90 is comprised of side wall portions 90A and 90B and intermediate side wall portion 90C. Side wall portions 90A and 90B are greater in height than intermediate side wall portion 90C, thereby forming an intermediate notched section of side wall 90. Side wall portions 90A and 90B are adjacent to end walls 60 and 70, respectively.

[0048] The second section 20 has a base having a generally planar outer wall surface 150 and an inner wall surface 160 and an end wall 170. The inner wall surface 160 has opposing side walls 180 and 190 along the circumference. The side wall 180 is composed of side wall portions 180A and 180B and an intermediate side wall portion 180C. The height of the side wall portions 180A and 180B is greater than the intermediate side wall portion 180C, thereby forming a middle notch section of the side wall 180. The side wall 190 is composed of side wall portions 190A and 190B and an intermediate side wall portion 190C. The height of the side wall portions 190A and 190B is greater than the intermediate side wall portion 190C, thereby forming a middle notch section of the side wall 190. The side wall portions 180A and 190A are adjacent to the end wall 170. The width of the second section 20 between the outer surfaces of the side walls is smaller in size than the width of the first section 10 between the inner surfaces of the side walls.

[0049] The first locking bracket 320 extends upward from the central portion of the end wall 170. The locking bracket 320 has a flange hook 340 extending outward at the upper end of the bracket.

[0050] The second locking bracket 350 extends from the inner surface 160 to form a partial end wall opposite the end wall 170 .

[0051] The first plurality of rib flanges 210 are disposed on the inner wall surface 160 parallel to the side walls 180 and 190. Optionally, the second plurality of rib flanges 220 may be disposed on the inner wall surface 160 parallel to the side walls 180 and 190, and the rib flanges 210 and 220 are separated by a spacer member 230 that is perpendicular to the two groups of rib flanges and disposed therebetween. The rib flanges 210 and 220 may have the same height or different heights. As an example, Figure 5D The side view in FIG. 2 shows cavity openings 240 and 250 of different sizes.

[0052] When the tracer wire holder 1 is in the Figure 5A and 5D When in the closed locked position shown, the spacing member 230 and the rib flanges 210 and 220 position and retain the tracer wire (not shown) in a suitable position in either or both of the cavity openings 240 and 250 formed by the middle notch section of the first section 10, the middle notch section of the second section 20, the spacing member 230, the end wall 170 of the second section 20 and the second locking bracket 340 of the first section 10.

[0053] By rotating the first section 10 on the middle section 30 and pressing the first section 10 onto the second section 20, Figure 5B The tracer wire holder 1 is placed Figure 5A , Figure 5D and Figure 5E The first slotted hole 300 receives the first locking bracket 320. The flange hook 340 of the locking bracket 310 engages and snaps onto the planar surface 42. The second slotted hole 310 receives and engages the second locking bracket 340, thereby securing the first section 10 and the second section 20 in the closed locked position. When the tracer wire holder is attached to the pipe, locking the first section and the second section secures the tracer wire in place.

[0054] have FIG. 5A to FIG. 5E The closed tracer wire holder 1 of the configuration shown can be reopened. Figure 5A As shown by the middle arrow, the locking brackets 310 and 350 can be released from the engagement machine slotted holes by pinching the brackets toward the center of the holder to release the first section 10 from locking engagement with the second section 20, thereby allowing the holder to be opened.

[0055] 6A to 6F The configuration of another exemplary embodiment of the tracer wire holder 1 shown is generally similar to Figures 1 to 4 The exemplary embodiment shown is similar but has a different locking mechanism to secure the first section 10 to the second section 20. The tracer wire holder 1 is composed of a first section 10 and a second section 20 connected by a flexible intermediate section 30. Figure 6C and Fig. 6F , the first section 10 has a base with an outer wall surface, the outer wall surface having a generally arcuate middle portion 41, a first planar end portion 42 and a second first planar end portion 43. The first section has a corresponding inner wall surface 50 with an arcuate middle portion 51, a first planar end portion 52 and a second first planar end portion 53. The inner wall surface 50 has a first end wall 60 and a second end wall 70. Optionally, the first end wall 60 has a protrusion 65 extending outward. The inner wall surface 50 has opposite side walls 80 and 90 along the side periphery. The side wall 80 is composed of side wall portions 80A and 80B and an intermediate side wall portion 80C. The height of the side wall portions 80A and 80B is greater than that of the intermediate side wall portion 80C, thereby forming a middle notch section of the side wall 80. The side wall portions 80A and 80B are adjacent to the end walls 60 and 70 respectively. The opposite side wall 90 is composed of side wall portions 90A and 90B and an intermediate side wall portion 90C. Side wall portions 90A and 90B are greater in height than middle side wall portion 90C, thereby forming a middle gap section of side wall 90. Side wall portions 90A and 90B are adjacent to end walls 60 and 70, respectively. Lugs 400 and 410 are disposed proximate each edge of end wall 70 and extend toward middle section 30.

[0056] The locking bracket 420 extends upward from the center portion of the end portion 52. The locking bracket 420 has an outwardly extending tab 430 at a first end of the bracket and an inwardly extending flange hook 130 at a second end of the bracket. The locking bracket 420 is disposed adjacent to the slotted hole 140 in the first section 10. The slotted hole is the width of the locking bracket 420.

[0057] The second section 20 has a base having a generally planar outer wall surface 150 and an inner wall surface 160 and a first end wall 170 and a second end wall 175. The inner wall surface 160 has opposing side walls 180 and 190 along the circumference. The side wall 180 is composed of side wall portions 180A and 180B and an intermediate side wall portion 180C. The height of the side wall portions 180A and 180B is greater than the intermediate side wall portion 180C, thereby forming a middle notch section of the side wall 180. The side wall 190 is composed of side wall portions 190A and 190B and an intermediate side wall portion 190C. The height of the side wall portions 190A and 190B is greater than the intermediate side wall portion 190C, thereby forming a middle notch section of the side wall 190. The side wall portions 180A and 190A are adjacent to the end arm 170, and the side wall portions 180B and 190B are adjacent to the end wall 175. The width of the second section 20 between the outer surfaces of the side walls is smaller in size than the width of the first section 10 between the inner surfaces of the side walls. The outer surface of the end wall 175 has holes 440 and 450 for receiving the lugs 400 and 410.

[0058] A first plurality of rib-shaped flanges 210 are disposed on the inner wall surface 160 parallel to the side walls 180 and 190. Optionally, a second plurality of rib-shaped flanges 220 may be disposed on the inner wall surface 160 parallel to the side walls 180 and 190, and the rib-shaped flanges 210 and 200 are separated by a spacer member 230 vertically disposed between the two groups of rib-shaped flanges. The rib-shaped flanges 210 and 220 may have the same height or different heights. Fig.6D The side view in FIG. 2 shows cavity openings 240 and 250 of different sizes.

[0059] When the tracer wire holder 1 is in the Fig. 6A and 6D In the closed locked position shown, the spacing member 230 and the rib-shaped flanges 210 and 220 position and retain the tracer wire (not shown) in place in either or both of the cavity openings 240 and 250 formed by the middle notched section of the first section 10, the middle notched section of the second section 20, the spacing member 230, and the end walls 170 and 175. A longitudinal recessed portion 260 is provided on the outer side edge of the end wall 170 at the adjacent edge of the outer side surface 150. The recessed portion 260 is configured to receive and engage the tab 430 of the locking bracket 420.

[0060] After the tracer wire is placed in position on the pipe, the first section 10 is moved rotationally on the middle section 30 and pressed toward the second section 20. Figure 6B The opened tracer wire holder 1 is placed in the closed locked position. When the first section 10 is rotated toward the second section 20, the lugs 400 and 410 move through the holes 430 and 440, and the tab 430 of the locking bracket 420 snaps into locking engagement with the recessed portion 260, thereby fixing the first section 10 and the second section 20 in the closed locked position.

[0061] like Fig. 6A and 6F As shown, the tab 430 can be released from the locked position by pushing against the locking bracket 410 near the lower end of the end wall 160 of the first section 10. The pushing force disengages the tab 430 from the recessed portion 260. The tab 65 of another tracer wire holder 1 can be used to push against the locking bracket. This avoids the need for the installer to use a screwdriver bit or other object to release the locking bracket.

[0062] FIG. 7A to FIG. 7D Another exemplary embodiment of the tracer wire holder 1 shown is generally configured similarly to Figures 1 to 4 The exemplary embodiment shown is similar, but has a different locking mechanism to secure the first section 10 to the second section 20 .

[0063] refer to FIG. 7A to FIG. 7D, the tracer wire holder 1 is composed of a first section 10 and a second section 20, which are connected by a flexible middle section 30. The first section 10 has a base with an outer wall surface, and the outer wall surface has a generally arcuate middle portion 41, a first planar end portion 42 and a second first planar end portion 43. The first section has a corresponding inner wall surface 50 with an arcuate middle portion 51, a first planar end portion 52 and a second first planar end portion 53. The inner wall surface 50 has a first end wall 60 and a second end wall 70. The inner wall surface 50 has opposite side walls 80 and 90 along the side circumference. The side wall 80 is composed of side wall portions 80A and 80B and an intermediate side wall portion 80C. The height of the side wall portions 80A and 80B is greater than that of the intermediate side wall portion 80C, thereby forming a middle notch section of the side wall 80. The side wall portions 80A and 80B are adjacent to the end walls 60 and 70 respectively. The opposing side wall 90 is comprised of side wall portions 90A and 90B and an intermediate side wall portion 90C. The side wall portions 90A and 90B are greater in height than the intermediate side wall portion 90C, thereby forming an intermediate notched section of the side wall 90. The side wall portions 90A and 90B are adjacent to the end walls 60 and 70, respectively. The inner surface of the side wall portion 90B has a protruding flange 100A. A similar flange protrudes from the inner surface of the side wall portion 80B at a location identified as 100B.

[0064] The locking bracket 500 extends upward from the central portion of the end wall 60. The locking bracket 500 is "T-shaped" with a first protrusion 510 and a second protrusion 520 extending from the ends of the bracket. The locking bracket 500 is disposed near the slotted hole 140 in the first section 10. The slotted hole is the width of the locking bracket 500.

[0065] The second section 20 has a base having a generally planar outer wall surface 150 and an inner wall surface 160 and an end wall 170. The inner wall surface 160 has opposing side walls 180 and 190 along the circumference. The side wall 180 is composed of side wall portions 180A and 180B and an intermediate side wall portion 180C. The height of the side wall portions 180A and 180B is greater than the intermediate side wall portion 180C, thereby forming a middle notch section of the side wall 180. The side wall 190 is composed of side wall portions 190A and 190B and an intermediate side wall portion 190C. The height of the side wall portions 190A and 190B is greater than the intermediate side wall portion 190C, thereby forming a middle notch section of the side wall 190. The side wall portions 180A and 190A are adjacent to the end wall 170. The width of the second section 20 between the outer surfaces of the side walls is smaller in size than the width of the first section 10 between the inner surfaces of the side walls. The outer surface of the side wall portion 180B has a flange member 200. A similar flange (not shown) extends from the outer surface of the side wall portion 190B.

[0066] The first plurality of rib flanges 210 are disposed on the inner wall surface 160 parallel to the side walls 180 and 190. Optionally, the second plurality of rib flanges 220 may be disposed on the inner wall surface 160 parallel to the side walls 180 and 190, and the rib flanges 210 and 200 are separated by a spacer member 230 vertically disposed between the two groups of rib flanges. The rib flanges 210 and 220 may have the same height or different heights. As an example, Fig.7D The side view in FIG. 2 shows cavity openings 240 and 250 of different sizes.

[0067] When the tracer wire holder 1 is in the Fig.7D When in the closed locked position shown, the spacing member 230 and the rib flanges 210 and 220 position and retain the tracer wire (not shown) in an appropriate position in either or both of the cavity openings 240 and 250 formed by the middle notch section of the first section 10, the middle notch section of the second section 20, the spacing member 230, the end wall 170 of the second section 20, and the end wall 70 of the first section 10.

[0068] By rotating the first section 10 on the middle section 30 and moving it to the second section 20 and pressing the first section 10 onto the second section 20, Figure 7B The tracer wire holder 1 is placed Fig. 7A and Fig.7D The locking closed position shown. Pressure causes similar opposing flanges at the extended flanges 100A and 100B to slide over and interlock with the flange member 200 and similar opposing flange members. A longitudinal recessed portion 260 is provided on the outer side edge of the end wall 170 at the adjacent edge of the outer side surface 150. The recessed portion 260 is sized to receive and engage the tab 510 of the locking bracket 500 after the first section 10 is rotated onto the second section 20 on the intermediate section 30, thereby securing the first section 10 with the second section 20 in the closed locked position. When the tracer wire holder is attached to the pipe, securing the first section and the second section can hold the tracer wire in place.

[0069] Locking the bracket 500 in juxtaposition with the slotted hole 140 permits slight rotational movement of the bracket 500 toward the hole, thereby permitting reopening of the tracer wire holder, reducing the potential for wasted tracer wire. Fig. 7A As shown by the arrow in , pull up the lug 520 to disengage the lug 510 from the recessed portion 260. If necessary, a standard flat-head screwdriver or the like can be inserted into the grooves 270 and 280 to disengage the extended flange 100 from the flange member 200.

[0070] FIG. 8A to FIG. 8D Another exemplary embodiment of the tracer wire holder 1 shown is generally configured similarly to Figures 1 to 4The exemplary embodiment shown is similar, but has a different locking mechanism to secure the first section 10 to the second section 20. The first section 10 has a base with an outer wall surface 40 having a generally arcuate middle portion 41, a first planar end portion 42, and a second first planar end portion 43. The first section has a corresponding inner wall surface 50 with an arcuate middle portion 51, a first planar end portion 52, and a second first planar end portion 53. The middle portion 51 has a slotted hole 600 therethrough. The inner wall surface 50 has a first end wall 60 and a second end wall 70. The inner wall surface 50 has opposing side walls 80 and 90 along the circumference. The side wall 80 is composed of side wall portions 80A and 80B and an intermediate side wall portion 80C. The side wall portions 80A and 80B are greater in height than the intermediate side wall portion 80C, thereby forming a middle notched section of the side wall 80. The side wall portions 80A and 80B are adjacent to the end walls 60 and 70, respectively. Opposing sidewall 90 is comprised of sidewall portions 90A and 90B and intermediate sidewall portion 90C. Sidewall portions 90A and 90B are greater in height than intermediate sidewall portion 90C, thereby forming an intermediate notch section of sidewall 90. Sidewall portions 90A and 90B are adjacent to end walls 60 and 70, respectively.

[0071] The second section 20 has a base having a generally planar outer wall surface 150 and an inner wall surface 160 and an end wall 170. The inner wall surface 160 has opposing side walls 180 and 190 along the circumference. The side wall 180 is composed of side wall portions 180A and 180B and an intermediate side wall portion 180C. The height of the side wall portions 180A and 180B is greater than the intermediate side wall portion 180C, thereby forming a middle notch section of the side wall 180. The side wall 190 is composed of side wall portions 190A and 190B and an intermediate side wall portion 190C. The height of the side wall portions 190A and 190B is greater than the intermediate side wall portion 190C, thereby forming a middle notch section 1 of the side wall 190. The side wall portions 180A and 190A are adjacent to the end wall 170. The width of the second section 20 between the outer surfaces of the side walls is smaller in size than the width of the first section 10 between the inner surfaces of the side walls.

[0072] The first plurality of rib-shaped flanges 210 are disposed on the inner wall surface 160 parallel to the side walls 180 and 190. Optionally, the second plurality of rib-shaped flanges 220 may be disposed on the inner wall surface 160 parallel to the side walls 180 and 190, and the rib-shaped flanges 210 and 220 may be of the same height or different heights. As an example, Fig.8DThe side view in FIG. 1 shows the different sized cavity openings 240 and 250. The ribbed flanges 210 and 220 are separated by a locking bracket 610, which is vertically disposed between the two sets of ribbed flanges. The locking bracket 610 has a first prong 620 at one end thereof and a second prong 630 at the opposite end. A first lug 640 extends outwardly from the prong 620, and a second lug 650 extends outwardly from the prong 630.

[0073] When the tracer wire holder 1 is in the Fig. 8A and 8D When in the closed locked position shown, the locking bracket 610 and the rib flanges 210 and 220 position and retain the tracer wire (not shown) in an appropriate position in either or both of the cavity openings 240 and 250 formed by the middle notch section of the first section 10, the middle notch section of the second section 20, the spacer member 230 and the end wall 170 of the second section 20.

[0074] By rotating the first section 10 on the middle section and pressing the first section 10 onto the second section 20, Figure 8B The open tracer holder 1 is placed Fig. 8A and Fig.8D The first slotted hole 600 receives the locking bracket 610. When the first section 10 is pressed toward the second section 20, the lugs 640 and 650 engage the intermediate surface 41, thereby securing the first section 10 with the second section 20 in the closed position. When the tracer wire holder is attached to the pipe, locking the first section and the second section secures the tracer wire in place.

[0075] The locking mechanism 600 may be reopened by pinching the pins 620 and 630 to release the lugs 640 and 650 from engagement with the middle portion 41, thereby allowing the locking bracket 610 to pass through the hole 600 and release the first section 10 from the second section 20. FIG. 8A to FIG. 8D A closed tracer wire holder 1 of the configuration shown.

[0076] As described above, the dual cavity area permits one smaller wire and one larger wire to be secured with one tracer wire holder. This allows the user to use their best judgment and common sense in the field to ensure that the wires are placed in the cavity that best fits the secure fit.

[0077] An adhesive or double-sided peelable adhesive pad is applied to the outer wall 150 of the second section to easily and quickly secure the tracer wire holder 1 to the pipe. The double-sided peelable adhesive pad can be pre-applied to the tracer wire holder, or applied during installation. The installer can grab 3 or 4 tracer wire holders and open and attach each tracer wire holder to the pipe every 2 to 3 meters (or other spacing that meets municipal regulations). After the holder is secured to the top center of the pipe, the tracer wire is placed in each holder, resting on the ribbed flange that best suits the thickness of the tracer wire.

[0078] Fig.9A and Fig. 9B Another exemplary embodiment is shown. The tracer wire holder 1 consists of a base (basically a planar base 700), a first section 710 and a second section 720, the second section extending from the first section to form a horseshoe-shaped opening 730. The rib-shaped member 740 has a concave end surface 750, extending from the inner wall 760 of one section toward the inner wall 770 of the second section to form a cavity 780 for receiving the tracer wire. The lug 790 is arranged above the rib-shaped member. The tracer wire 800 is placed in the cavity 780 and fixed in place by the rib-shaped member 740 and the inner wall 770 of the second section. If the tracer wire needs to be removed, the screwdriver head is inserted from the top of the tracer wire holder into the space between the lug 790 and the rib-shaped member 740, and pressed against the top of the second section 710 to move it, thereby releasing the wire from the cavity.

[0079] The rib member 740 retains the wire as it is pressed in from the top of the retainer. After the wire is installed, the wire can be pulled tight in the direction of installation without pulling back to a loose state. Once secured to the pipe, the rib member 740 of the tracer wire retainer only allows the wire to be pulled in one direction, which is very advantageous when performing the pipe bedding process.

[0080] Fig.10 Shows Fig.9A and Fig. 9B The embodiment of the present invention is a tracer wire holder attached to the pipe section 810, wherein the tracer wire 800 is fixed by the spaced tracer wire holder. The other tracer wire embodiments described above will be similarly positioned and attached to the pipe section holding the tracer wire.

[0081] Fig.11 yes Fig.10 A close-up view of a tracer wire holder holding a tracer wire 800 on a pipe segment 810.

[0082] Fig.12 Shows Figure 1The embodiment of the present invention is a tracer wire holder attached to the pipe section 810, wherein the tracer wire 800 is fixed by the spaced tracer wire holder. The other tracer wire embodiments described above will be similarly positioned and attached to the pipe section holding the tracer wire.

[0083] Fig.13 yes Figure 1 A close-up view of a tracer wire holder holding a tracer wire 800 on a pipe segment 810.

[0084] Tracer wire holders may be made from plastics, including low-density polyethylene (LDPE), which is a flexible yet strong plastic that can withstand the conditions it will face when buried in different soil conditions.

[0085] Although the principles of the present invention have been shown and described in conjunction with specific embodiments, it should be understood that such embodiments are intended to be exemplary and not restrictive. It is apparent from the foregoing description that certain aspects of the present invention are not limited to the details of the tracer wire holder shown in the accompanying drawings. Other modifications and applications or equivalent operations will be made by those skilled in the art. As used in the foregoing specification, the terms "having", "including" and "comprising" and similar terms are used in the sense of "optional" or "included" rather than "required". However, after considering the specification and the drawings, many changes, modifications, variations and other uses and applications of the construction of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art. All such changes, modifications, variations and other uses and applications that do not deviate from the spirit and scope of the present invention are deemed to be included in the present invention, and the present invention is limited only by the appended claims. The scope of the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments shown herein, but should be given the full scope consistent with the claims, wherein unless otherwise specified, references to singular elements do not mean "one and only one", but mean one or more.

Claims

1. A tracer wire fixture, comprising: a first section and a second section, the first section having a base, two side walls and a first end wall and a second end wall, the second section having a base, at least one end wall and two side walls, the first section and the second section being connected by a flexible intermediate section; wherein the width of the outer surface of the side wall of the second section is smaller than the width of the inner surface of the side wall of the first section; a locking device, the locking device releasably fixing the first section and the second section; wherein the first section and the second section are joined to form a first cavity and a second cavity for receiving and fixing the tracing line, and the first cavity and the second cavity are different in size; Wherein the first group of rib flanges and the second group of rib flanges are positioned on the base of the second section in an arrangement parallel to the side wall of the second section, and wherein the first group of rib flanges and the second group of rib flanges are separated by a spacing member that is perpendicular to the two groups of rib flange edges and located between the two groups of rib flanges; wherein the two groups of rib flanges have different heights.

2. The tracer wire holder of claim 1, wherein the side walls of the first section and the second section each have a middle notched section.

3. The tracer wire holder of claim 1, wherein the base of the first section has generally arcuate outer and inner surfaces, and the base of the second section has generally planar outer and inner surfaces. 4 . The tracer wire fastener of claim 1 , wherein the first group of rib-shaped flanges comprises one or more rib-shaped flanges, and the second group of rib-shaped flanges comprises one or more rib-shaped flanges.

5. The tracer wire holder of claim 1, further comprising a double-sided releasable adhesive pad applied to an outer wall surface of the base of the second section.

6. The tracer wire holder according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the locking device comprises: a locking bracket extending from the end wall of the first section and disposed adjacent to the slotted aperture in the base of the first section, the locking bracket having an outwardly extending tab at a first end of the bracket and an inwardly extending flange hook at a second end of the bracket; a longitudinal recessed portion disposed on an outer side edge of the end wall of the second section to cooperatively receive and releasably secure the flange hook; and A first flange and a second flange, the first flange and the second flange are positioned on the inner surface of the side wall of the first section and close to the second end wall of the first section, the first flange and the second flange are locked and engaged with the first flange component and the second flange component, and the first flange component and the second flange component are arranged on the outer surface of the side wall of the second section close to the middle section.

7. The tracer wire holder according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the base of the first section further comprises a first slotted hole proximate to the first end wall thereof and a second slotted hole proximate to the second end wall thereof, and the locking device comprises: a first locking bracket having an outwardly extending flange hook at an upper end thereof, the flange hook projecting upwardly from a central portion of the first end wall of the second section, the flange hook engaging in releasable locking engagement with the base of the first section through the first slotted aperture; and A second locking bracket extends from the base of the second section proximate the middle section and opposite to the first end wall, and the second locking bracket is engaged with the base of the first section in a releasable locking engagement through the second slotted hole.

8. The tracer wire holder according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the locking device comprises: a locking bracket extending proximate the first end wall of the first section and disposed adjacent to the slotted hole in the base of the first section, the locking bracket having an outwardly extending tab at a first end of the bracket and an inwardly extending flange hook at a second end of the bracket; a longitudinal recessed portion disposed on an outer side edge of the end wall of the second section to cooperatively receive and releasably secure the flange hook; and A lug extends toward the middle section at each end of the second end wall of the base of the first section and the second end wall of the base of the second section, the second end wall of the base of the first section and the second end wall of the base of the second section being configured with a hole at each end thereof for receiving the lug in a releasable locking engagement.

9. The tracer wire holder according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the locking device comprises: a T-shaped locking bracket having a first tab and a second tab extending upwardly from a central portion of the first end wall of the first section, the locking bracket being disposed adjacent to the slotted hole in the base of the first section; and a longitudinal recessed portion disposed on an outer side edge of the end wall of the second section to cooperatively receive and releasably secure the second tab in a locking arrangement; A first flange and a second flange, the first flange and the second flange are positioned on the inner surface of the side wall of the first section, close to the second end wall of the first section, the first flange and the second flange are releasably locked with the first flange member and the second flange member, and the first flange member and the second flange member are arranged on the outer surface of the side wall of the second section close to the middle section.

10. The tracer wire holder according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the locking device comprises: a locking bracket disposed perpendicularly to the side wall of the base of the second section and centered thereon, the locking bracket having a first prong at one end thereof and a second prong at an opposite end thereof, a first lug extending outwardly from the first prong and a second lug extending outwardly from the second prong; and A slotted hole is centrally located on the base of the first section to receive the locking bracket therethrough and enable the lug to engage with the base of the first section in a releasable locking arrangement.

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