Systems, methods, and devices for prewire

Abstract

Various embodiments comprising locator devices are disclosed. The locator device may be configured to be inserted in an opening, and comprise: a connection component configured to semi-permanently connected to a wire or string; a body portion connected to the connection component, wherein the connection component extends away from the body portion, the body portion further comprising a magnet contained within the body portion, wherein the locator device further comprises a wall portion comprising grooves for gripping an interior surface of the opening. Various example covers, rings, boxes, slides and the like are disclosed for holding and covering the locator device, for subsequent access to hidden prewire locations.

Description

Title: SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND DEVICES FOR PREWIRECROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to U S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 579.473, entitled '‘Systems, Methods, and Devices for Prewire”, filed August 29, 2023, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.FIELD OF INVENTIONThe present disclosure relates generally to devices, systems and methods (that may be implemented during and / or after original construction) for facilitating the future installation of electric powered devices or locations. When ready to install the electric powered components, these devices, systems and methods may facilitate locating components hidden by the original construction and / or after original construction. The hidden components may provide ready access to prewiring and / or conduit for future wiring and / or the like.BACKGROUND[00031 It is desirable to build structures, such as homes, condos / apartments, retail spaces and offices, prewired or otherwise prepared for electrical pow er, for digital connectedness, analog control, audio / visual, motorized shades, security and the like. But doing so is often messy, unsightly, inefficient, cumbersome, and / or time consuming. New methods of prepositioning wires, structures and the like for such power and communications behind walls, wall coverings, and other structures, and for subsequent location thereof, would be advantageous.SUMMARY[00041 In accordance with an example embodiment, a locator device is disclosed. The locator device may be configured to be inserted in an opening, and comprise: a connection component configured to semi-permanently connected to a wire or string; a body portion connected to the connection component, wherein the connection component extends away from the body portion, the body portion further comprising a magnet contained within the bodyportion, wherein the locator device further comprises a wall portion comprising grooves for gripping an interior surface of the opening.100051 In accordance with another example embodiment, a cover locator device may comprise: a cover; and the locator device. The cover may further comprise: a planar structure having a first side and a second side opposite the first side; a first cover wall and a second cover wall, each attached to the first side and extending away from the first side, wherein the first cover wall and second cover wall are configured to removably attach the locator device to the planar structure.

[0006] In accordance with another example embodiment, a stub locator device is disclosed, comprising: a stub having a conduit connection port, and a hollow interior with an open end opposite the conduit connection port; a locator device comprising: a connection component configured to semi-permanently connected to a wire or string; a body portion connected to the connection component, wherein the connection component extends away from the body portion, the body portion further comprising a magnet contained within the body portion, wherein the locator device further comprises a wall portion comprising grooves. The stub locator device may further comprise a stub cover compnsing: a planar structure having a first side and a second side opposite the first side; a first stub cover wall and a second stub cover wall, each attached to the first side and extending away from the first side, wherein the first cover wall and second cover w all are configured to removably attach the locator device to the planar structure, wherein the stub cover and locator device are configured to be inserted in the hollow interior of the stub, flush w ith an opening of the stub.

[0007] In accordance with another example embodiment, a stub locator device is disclosed comprising: a stub having a conduit connection port, and a hollow interior with an open end opposite the conduit connection port; a locator device comprising: a connection component configured to semi-permanently connected to a wire or string; a body portion connected to the connection component, wherein the connection component extends away from the body portion, the body portion further comprising a magnet contained within the body portion, wherein the locator device further comprises a wall portion comprising grooves. The stub locator device further comprising a stub ring comprising: a rectangular ring structure having a first wall and a second wall; a cross bar extending from the first wall to the second wall; wherein the cross bar has a first side and a second side opposite the first side; a first ring wall and a second ring wall, each attached to the first side and extending away from the first side, wherein the first ring wall and second ring wall are configured to removably attach the locator deviceto the stub ring; wherein the stub ring and locator device are configured to be attached to the stub, proud of the open end.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING FIGURES

[0008] Additional aspects of the present disclosure will become evident upon reviewing the non-limiting embodiments described in the specification and the claims taken in conjunction with the accompanying figures, wherein like numerals designate like elements, and:

[0009] FIG. 1 illustrates a locator device located in or between studs, joists or in headers in accordance with various example embodiments;

[0010] FIGs. 2A-2C illustrate various additional locator devices, and a profile locator device, in accordance with various example embodiments;

[0011] FIG. 3 illustrates another locator device, in accordance with various example embodiments;

[0012] FIG. 4A illustrates a cover locator device, and various shapes thereof, in accordance with various example embodiments;

[0013] FIGs. 4B - 4D illustrate various covers, in accordance with various example embodiments;

[0014] FIGs. 4E - 4H illustrate various embodiments of a stub, stub cover and / or stub ring, in accordance with various example embodiments;

[0015] FIG. 5 illustrates a trimport and a dropout, and installation thereof, in accordance with various example embodiments;

[0016] FIGs. 6A - 6C illustrate circular brackets, in accordance with various example embodiments;

[0017] FIGs. 7A-7F illustrate another circular bracket, in accordance with various example embodiments;

[0018] FIGs. 8A-8B illustrate various example slack boxes, in accordance with various example embodiments;

[0019] FIG. 8C illustrates an installed slack box Bubble and Groove, in accordance with various example embodiments; and

[0020] FIG. 9 illustrates a set of slide brackets, in accordance with various example embodiments.DETAILED DESCRIPTION[00211 Reference will now be made to the exemplary embodiments illustrated in the drawings, and specific language will be used herein to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the disclosure is thereby intended. Alterations and further modifications of the inventive features illustrated herein, and additional applications of the principles of the disclosure as illustrated herein, which would occur to one skilled in the relevant art and having possession of this disclosure, are to be considered within the scope of the disclosure.[00221 In many instances, during the construction of structures, such as homes, condos, apartments, retail spaces, dwellings, office space, commercial space, and the like, it is desirable to ‘prewire’ the structure. In an example embodiment, the structures are prewired or otherwise prepared for electrical power, digital connectedness, analog control, audio / visual, motorized shades, security and / or the like, by placing wires, cables, tubing, conduit, and / or the like within the structure, such as within a column, a wall, a ceiling, a floor, and / or the like. In an example embodiment, the wires, cables, tubing, conduit and / or the like are covered, such as by sheetrock, wall board, paneling, plywood, siding, plaster, metal trim, cement and / or the like.

[0023] Often, as part of the installation of the sheetrock, etc., the contractor will drill a hole and pull the wires through the (finished surface) such as sheetrock and leave them exposed. This can be undesirable for many reasons. First, the contractor may have pulled the wires through just enough off from where they should have been to cause problems that are difficult to repair. Second, in some instances, the wires are not ultimately needed (such as if the owner does not want to install speakers or motorized blinds) and so the owner is stuck with unsightly wires protruding through the surface. Third, the contractor may not have provided enough slack protruding for the needed job, and pulling through more may be difficult due to foam insulation or other problems now covered by the sheetrock. Fourth, exposed wires are susceptible to being damaged, cut, painted, mudded or otherwise made unfit for use due to the construction process. Fifth, there are no useful systems for prewiring fixtures in concrete structures.

[0024] In other instances, contractors leave the wires behind the wall, leaving it to the future contractor to drill holes and attempt to find and fish out the wires. Both of these old methods have significant drawbacks and the possibility of lost or moved wires increases dramatically.

[0025] Disclosed herein are various example embodiments for prewiring a structure and later locating the prewiring in an efficient aesthetically pleasing manner, avoiding the messy, unsightly, inefficient, cumbersome, and / or time consuming techniques of the past. Stated another way, disclosed herein are various example devices, systems and methods of prepositioning wires, cables, tubing, conduit and / or the like within structures behind walls, wall coverings, and other structures, and for subsequent location thereof.

[0026] In an example embodiment, a locator device is configured to be placed protected in the wall until a subsequent time, to facilitate connection of an appropriate device. As used herein, “subsequent” means after the point in construction where the locator device is covered up / hidden. Subsequent could thus refer to a later stage in construction, such as after mudding and dry wall are completed. But subsequent could refer to a point in time years after the house has been built and the owner decides to install a surround sound system with speakers in the ceiling. In an example embodiment, the locator device is configured to promote a clean wall, ceiling, header or the like, allowing end users to decide at the appropriate time to install devices, such as: motorized blinds, a keypad, speakers, a touchscreen or a future light fixture.

[0027] The locator device in one embodiment is configured for finding the appropriate place on the wall to drill a hole to access an object installed at that specific location. For example, the locator device may be configured to mark the access point to a junction box or the end of a conduit hidden in the wall behind dry w all. In another example embodiment, the locator device is configured to semi-permanently engage with a wire, a string, a cable, and / or the like. Although ty pically discussed herein as a “wire” it should be understood that the same discussion with respect to a “wire” applies for a string, a cable and / or the like. Thus, the disclosure herein is applicable to locating any suitable hidden object or any hidden thing one might want to pull the end of through the wall at a subsequent time.

[0028] With reference to FIG. 1, one improvement to these solutions is a locator device 100. This locator device 100 comprises a three hole wire-tail connected to a body' portion. The body portion may comprise a magnet. The body portion comprises pins for connecting the device to a strap with corresponding holes for receiving the pins and retaining the device at a set location within the wall. During construction (e.g., of an office, high rise or home), a wire is threaded through the holes in the wire-tail, a strap is connected between studs or joists inside the wall, and the device is connected to the strap. The device 100 is connected to the strap by joining the pins located in the body portion with holes in the strap.

[0029] After mounting the locator device 100 within the wall at an exact location, it can be covered / hidden by placing drywall or another such covering that conceals the locator device and the wire attached to it. Subsequent to covering the locator device 100, at an appropriate time, the exact center point of the device can be found with a magnetic locator, a hole can be drilled at that center point, and the device can be withdrawn from its location through the hole pulling the prewired wires (string, cable and / or the like) with it. Then the speakers or other component can be connected to these wires. This locator device 100 eliminates the need for brackets or junction boxes and facilitates significantly greater flexibility in the locating of the future device location, because the device can be placed anywhere between the studs 101 as opposed only on a stud, or only where it can be supported by a bracket off of a stud. While this alone is a great solution, further improvements are desirable.[00301 In accordance with an example embodiment, and with reference to FIG. 2A, a locator device 200A may comprise a wire-tail 210, a body portion 220, pins 230, and a cap 240. The wire-tail 210 may be connected to the body portion 220. The pins 230 may extend from the body portion 220.

[0031] In an example embodiment, the wire-tail 210 is an elongated strip comprising at least one hole. Moreover, the wire-tail 210 may comprise any suitable number of holes or other structure suitable for semi-permanently engaging a wire, pull string (or the like). The holes may be configured to receive a wire or wires that are inserted and woven through the hole(s), to be retained securely by the wire- tail 210 in a non-permanent manner. The wire-tail 210 may have any shape suitable for engaging the end of a wire. The wire-tail 210 may be configured to hold the end of the wire for as long as it remains hidden in the w all, to pull the wire out w hen the locator device is removed from the wall, and to allow disengagement of the wire from the wire-tail 210 after the wire-tail has been removed from its hiding place.

[0032] In an example embodiment, the wire-tail 210 is made of plastic, but it may be made of any suitable material. In an example embodiment, the wire-tail 210 may be connected to the body portion 220. In an example embodiment, the wire-tail 210 is integral with the body portion 220. In one example embodiment, the wire-tail 210 is attached to the body portion at a right angle, such that the wire-tail 210 extends perpendicularly away from the surface behind which it may be placed, as illustrated in FIG. 1.

[0033] In a further example embodiment, the cap 240 is configured to attach to the body portion. The cap 240 may be attached to the body portion by sonic welding, glue, and or the like. In an example embodiment, the cap is made of polypropylene. ABS. PETG. carbon fiber,aluminum, or any suitable material. In an example embodiment, the cap 240 is made of the same material as the body portion 220 and / or the wire-tail 210. In an example embodiment, the cap is permanently bonded to the body.

[0034] In an example embodiment, the body portion 220 and the cap 240 form a clam shell for retaining a magnet. In an example embodiment, the locator device 200 comprises a magnet (not shown). The magnet may be made of any suitable magnetic material for being found through a material such as wallboard, drywall, plaster, wood paneling and the like. In an example embodiment, the locator device comprises two structures forming opposing clamshell structure, with recesses within one, the other, or each for retaining the magnet within the locator device 200. The magnet may be inserted inside the clam shells and the clam shells may be sonic welded or glued together to retain the magnet. Moreover any suitable structure for holding the magnet may be used. In an example embodiment, the body portion is made of a plastic material. However, the body portion may be made of any suitable material.

[0035] In an example embodiment, the pins 230 are connected to the body portion with an orientation parallel with the wire-tail 210. In one example embodiment, the pins 230 may be configured to be received into holes in the strap, to retain the locator device 200 in a fixed “hidden” position. In one example embodiment, the pins 230 are formed as part of the housing and / or of the same material as the housing.

[0036] In another example embodiment, the pins 230 are metal or any suitably resilient material for being reused many times. In one example embodiment the pins 230 are made of aluminum. In another example embodiment, the pins 230 are made of carbon fiber. In an example embodiment, the pins 230 are made of a material that is different from that of the body portion 220. In this embodiment, the pins 230 may comprise a first pin, a second pin, and a connecting bar. The clam shell may be configured with holes for the first and second pin to extend through, and with a slot suitable for fixedly retaining the connecting bar within the body portion when the clam shell is sealed closed. In an example embodiment, the clam shell comprises features matching the structure of the connecting bar such that the connecting bar cannot move relative to the body portion, providing a resilient and sturdy support for the pins. Moreover, the cap 240 may comprise feet (inside the clamshell) for pressing against the magnet and / or connecting bar. Moreover, the feet may provide a more secure connection between the cap and the body portion 220.

[0037] In an example embodiment, when the locator device 200A has been found, a hole is drilled through the structure or surface that is hiding the locator device. When the drillreaches the cap, the locator device is now exposed, and the locator device flexes back from the drill due to the give in the strap or mounting device. At this point, needle nose pliers or any suitable tool can be used to extract the locator device 200A from the wall. While extracting the locator device 200A, wires, string, or the like, may be pulled out from where they were hidden. In an example embodiment, the locator device 200A may be used for installation (in the future) of motorized blinds, lighting / low voltage lighting, surveillance cameras / security systems / motion sensors, video doorbell cameras, speakers, and or the hke.

[0038] Thus, in accordance with various example embodiments, a locator device may comprise: a wire-tail, the wire tale configured to semi-permanently hold a wire; a body portion connected to the wire-tail, wherein the wire-tail extends away from the body portion, wherein the body portion comprises at least a first hole; a first pin, a second pin, and a connecting bar extending between the first pin and second pin and comprising connecting bar features, wherein the first pin extends through the first hole in the body portion, wherein the second pin extends through the second hole in the body portion, wherein the first and second pins extend in a direction parallel to the wire-tail, wherein the first and second pins are configured to engage holes in an external strap, wherein the body portion further comprises a slot inside the body portion, the slot having features matching the connecting bar features for retaining the pins in a fixed position relative to the body portion; and a cap connected to the body portion, the cap and the body portion containing a magnet, the cap and the body portion configured to hold the connecting bar and first pin and second pin in a fixed position. In further example embodiments, the wire-tail comprises at least two holes, and / or the wire-tail comprises any shape suitable for engaging a wire. In an example embodiment, the cap and the body portion comprise a clamshell sandwiched about the magnet and the connecting bar. In another example embodiment, the pins are formed of a material different from the body portion.Profile[00391 With reference now to FIG. 2B, in an example embodiment, a profile locator device 200B comprises a wire-tail body 211, pins 231, and a cap 241. The cap 241 and the wire-tail body 211 may form a clam shell to contain a magnet (similar to the magnet described in connection with FIG. 2 A). In an example embodiment, the cap 241 is attached to the wire-tail body 211, and pins 231 are attached to the wire-tail body 211. In an example embodiment, the pins 231 may extend from the wire-tail body 211 in a direction perpendicular from the plane of the wire-tail body 211.

[0040] In an example embodiment, the wire-tail body 211 is an elongated strip comprising one or more holes. Moreover, the wire-tail body 211 may comprise any suitable number of holes or other structure suitable for semi-permanently engaging a wire (or the like). The hole(s) may be configured to receive a wire or wires that are inserted and woven through the hole(s), to be retained securely by the wire-tail body 211 in a non-permanent manner. The wire-tail body 211 may have any shape suitable for engaging the end of a wire. The wire-tail body 211 may be configured to hold the end of the wire for as long as it remains hidden in the wall, to pull the wire out when the locator device 200B is removed from the wall, and to allow disengagement of the wire from the wire-tail body 211 after the profile locator device 200B has been removed from its hiding place. In an example embodiment, the wire-tail body 211 is made of plastic, but it may be made of any suitable material. In an example embodiment, the wire-tail body 211 is a planar structure having a first side and a second side, with the at least two holes extending through the wire-tail body 211 from the first side to the second side.

[0041] On a first end of the wire-tail body 211, away from the holes in the wire-tail body 211, is an end portion configured to connect to the cap 241. In this embodiment, the wire-tail extends laterally away from the body portion such that the wire-tail extends in a direction parallel to the surface behind which it may be placed, providing a low profile.

[0042] This end portion may also be associated with the pins 231. The pins 231 may extend from a surface of the wire-tail body 211 in a direction orthogonal to the elongated direction of the wire-tail body 211. In an example embodiment, at least two pins 231 extend from the first side of the wire-tail body 211 in a direction perpendicular to the first side. The pins may be part of the wire-tail body 211 or inserted through holes in the wire-tail body 211. The pins may be configured to be received into holes in the strap, to retain the locator device 200B in a fixed location, ‘hidden’ behind the covering structure, as illustrated in Figure 2C. The pins 231 may be plastic and integral to the wire-tail body 21 1. In other example embodiments, the pins 231 are metal or any suitably resilient material for being reused many times. In one example embodiment the pins 231 are made of aluminum. In another example embodiment, the pins 231 are made of carbon fiber. In an example embodiment, the pins 231 are made of a material that is different from that of the wire-tail body 211. In this embodiment, the pins 231 may comprise a first pin, a second pin, and a connecting bar.

[0043] In an example embodiment, the locator device comprises a magnet (not shown). The magnet may be made of any suitable magnetic material for being found through a material such as wallboard, dry wall, wood paneling and the like. The magnet may be contained betweenthe cap 241 and the wire-tail body 211. In one example embodiment, one end of the wire-tail body 211 comprises a first half of a clam shell for containing the magnet, and the cap 241 comprises a second half of the clam shell for containing the magnet. Thus, the first half and second half of the clam shell structure are configured to form an opposing clamshell structure, with recesses within each for retaining the magnet and / or pins. The magnet may be inserted in the clam shells and the clam shells may be sonic welded or glued together to retain the magnet and pins 231. Moreover any suitable structure for holding the magnet may be used. In an example embodiment, the wire-tail body 21 1 and cap 241 are made of a plastic material. However, these may be made of any suitable material.

[0044] The clam shell may be configured with holes for the first and second pin to extend from inside the claim shell out through the first side of the wire-tail body, and with a slot suitable for fixedly retaining the connecting bar within the sealed clam shell. In an example embodiment, the slot comprises features matching the structure of the connecting bar such that the connecting bar cannot move relative to the wire-tail body 211, providing a resilient and sturdy support for the pins 231.

[0045] In accordance with an example embodiment, the low profile prewire device 200B enables placement of the locator device mounted on a strap within a shallow space. For example, the profile locator device 200B can be placed in a shallow space on walls or on ceilings that have been furred out, or the like. In one example embodiment, and with reference to FIG. 2C, hat channels may be attached to a ceiling and the locator device can be located on a strap within the !4 inch space between the sheetrock placed over the hat channel and the concrete ceiling. Later, an LED light, or wireless access point can be installed at this location.

[0046] In a further example embodiment, the cap 241 is configured to attach to the wiretail body 211. In an example embodiment the cap 241 is attached to the wire-tail body 211 by sonic welding or glue. In an example embodiment, the cap is made of plastics such as ABS, polypropylene, PETG, or any suitable material. In an example embodiment, when the locator device has been found, a hole is drilled through the structure that is hiding the locator device. When the drill reaches the cap. the locator device is now exposed, and the locator device flexes away from the drill due to the play in the strap. At this point, needle nose pliers or any suitable tool can be used to extract the locator device from the wall. While extracting the locator device, wires may be pulled out from where they w ere hidden.

[0047] Thus, in an example embodiment, a profile locator device may comprise: a wiretail body comprising at least one wire hole, the wire-tale body having a wire-tail configured tosemi-permanently hold a wire, wherein the wire-tail comprises a first side and a second side and the at least one wire hole extends through the wire-tail body from the first side to the second side; a cap connected to the wire-tail body on a first side on a first end away from a second end comprising the wire-tail body portion that has the at least one wire hole, the cap and the wiretail body forming a clam shell; a magnet contained within the clam shell; a first pin and a second pin. wherein the first and second pins extend in a direction perpendicular to the second side of the wire-tail, wherein the first and second pins are configured to engage pin receiving holes in an external strap. In an example embodiment, the wire-tail may have any shape suitable for engaging the end of a wire, and or any suitable number of wire holes. In an example embodiment, the wire-tail body may comprise a first pin hole and a second pin hole, the locator device may further comprise a connecting bar extending between the first pin and the second pin, the first pin may extend through the first pin hole in the wire-tail body, the second pin may extend through the second pin hole in the wire-tail, the connecting bar may comprise connecting bar features, and at least one of the wire-tail and the body portion may further comprise a slot inside the wire tail body portion, the slot having features matching the connecting bar features for retaining the pins in a fixed position relative to the wire tail body portion. In an example embodiment, the locator device is reusable. In an example embodiment, the pins are of a material that is different from that of the wire-tail. In an example embodiment, the pins are of a metal material.10048] In accordance with an example embodiment, and with reference to FIG. 3. a locator device 300 may comprise a body portion 320, and a connection component 310. In an example embodiment, the locator device 300 further comprises a shield component 350. In an example embodiment, the connection component 310 is attached to the body portion 320. In an example embodiment, the shield component 350 is removably connected to the body portion 320.10049] In an example embodiment, the body portion 320 comprises a magnet, similar to the magnet described in connection with FIGS. 2A and 2B. The magnet may be contained within the body portion 320. In an example embodiment, the body portion 320 comprises a central portion 321, a base portion 322, and at least two wall portions 324 / 325. In an example embodiment, the central portion 321 contains the magnet. The central portion 321 may further be connected to the base portion 322. The first wall portion 324 and the second wall portion 325 may comprise walls connected to the base portion 322 and extending away from the base portion 322. In an example embodiment, each of the first wall portion 324 and the second wall portion 325 are connected on one of their respective ends to the base portion 322. For example,the wall portions 324 / 325 may extend perpendicularly away from the base portion 322, and / or in parallel with the central portion 321, though any suitable angle may be used. In an example embodiment, each of the first and second wall portions 324 / 325 are configured to flex inwardly toward the central portion 321 for providing a counter force retaining the locator device 300 in an opening. In this regard, the locator device 300 may have a space or gap located between the walls 324 / 325 and the central portion 321 suitable for allowing sufficient flexing of the walls inwardly. In an example embodiment, the wall portions 324 / 325. base portions 322. central portion 321 and connection component 310 are integrally formed of one material, though any suitable materials and / or combination of materials may be used. In one example embodiment, the wall portions 324 / 325 each comprise an outer surface and an inner surface, the inner surface facing the central portion 321, and the outer surface opposite the inner surface. In one example embodiment, the outer surfaces of each of the wall portions 324 / 325 comprise a surface texture. The surface texture may comprise grooves, ridges, and / or any surface texture configured to help retain the locator device within an opening. In other example embodiments, any suitable number of walls (such as three or four) may be used.10050] In another example embodiment, the locator device 300 may be configured as illustrated in 301, where the walls are integrated into the central portion. Stated another way, the locator device 301 may comprise a central portion 321 having walls on the sides, wherein the walls comprise a surface texture similar to locator device 300, and the locator device 301 having a connection component 310. The discussion herein with respect to locator device 300 may be equally applicable to locator device 301 .

[0051] As illustrated herein, the locator device 300 may have an outer cross-sectional shape of a circle. However, the outer cross-sectional shape (represented by the outer surface of the wall portions 324 / 325) may be any suitable shape for securing the locator device 300 in a hole, receptacle, opening, location or recess within a structure through which wires may wish to be passed in the future. For example, the locator device 300 can be placed in a hole drilled into a door / window header, a hole drilled into framing, brick, concrete, plaster, stucco or other surface. In an example embodiment, the structure comprises concrete, wood, and / or the like. In another example embodiment, the outer cross-sectional shape has flat portions. The flat portions may be between the walls. The flat portions may be configured such that when installed in such a hole, gaps exist between the inside diameter of the hole and the locator device 300 facilitating grabbing the locator device 300 on its side while inserted in the hole. These flat portions may further facilitate gripping the locator device 300 when installing thelocator device in the hole. These flat portions and rounded ends may be very useful for inserting the locator device 300, holding the locator device 300 in place in the hole, and extracting the locator device 300 from the hole at a subsequent time. For example, the locator device can be grasped with needle nose pliers while in the hole.

[0052] In an example embodiment, the connection component 310 comprises a loop. The loop may be configured to receive a wire or the like, the wire can be drawn through the loop, doubled back on itself and twisted around itself to semi-permanently connect the wire to the locator device 300. However, in some embodiments, the wire need not be looped around itself and the wire bend may be sufficient to hold the wire about the loop. In other example embodiments zip ties or any suitable method of securing the wire to the connection component 310 may be used. In one example embodiment, the loop extends away from the central portion 321. In another example embodiment, the loop extends away from the central portion 321 at an angle, such as a 20-60 degree angle, preferably a 30-50 degree angle, to reduce the overall height of the locator device 300. The connection component 310, how ever, may comprise any structure suitable for semi-permanently connecting a wire or the like to the locator device 300. In some instances, a wire may not be attached to the connection component 310, such as when the locator device 300 merely marks the end of a conduit or a junction box. Thus, although ty pically the locator device 300 comprises a loop, not all locator devices comprise a loop.[00531 In an example embodiment, the shield component 350 may be configured to be removably connected to the base portion 322. The shield component 350 may be configured to protect the locator device 300 from a drill or the like. The shield component 350 can be scuffed or damaged, thrown aw ay and the locator device 300 can be reused with a new shield component 350.

[0054] Exampl e Us age :

[0055] In an example embodiment, and with reference to the upper right side of FIG 8C, during construction a hole may be drilled in wood, concrete, a window / door header, or other such structure. For example, the hole may be a 3 / 8 inch hole for the wire. A second hole may be drilled 1 inch in diameter and 1.5-2 inches deep, and this second hole may be configured to fit the locator device 300. A wire may be run through the 3 / 8 inch hole, and connected to the locator device 300. The locator device 300 may then be inserted in the 1 inch hole. When the locator device 300 is inserted in the 1 inch hole, the wall portions may bend or flex as the locator device is inserted sufficient that the w alls apply a radial force outward of the locator device on the interior wall of the hole. Thus, the locator device 300 is configured to retainitself within a hole in a structure by exerting an outward radial force on the interior wall of the hole. The surface texture on the walls may provide further gripping for retaining the locator device in the hole. Of course the hole dimensions used here are just exemplary, and any suitable hole diameters and depths may be used.

[0056] At this point, the installed locator device 300 may be covered by wood trim, sheetrock, coving, stucco, paint, putty, fill and or the like. At a time subsequent to covering the locator device 300. the locator device 300 can be located through use of a magnet and its location marked. Then a hole can be drilled at the marked spot through the covering material. The drill may pass completely through the covering material exposing the locator device 300.

[0057] As mentioned above, in an example embodiment, the locator device 300 comprises flat portions in its cross section or indentations in its cross section. Stated another way, the outer shape may be configured to provide gaps when installed in the hole such that needle nose pliers can be used to grab the sides of the revealed locator device 300 in the hole and pull it out of the hole. When the locator device 300 is extracted from the hole, it will draw the attached wire through the hole with it.

[0058] The locator device 300 can then be disconnected from the wire, a device (electronic component) may be electrically connected to the wire and installed, and the locator device 300 can be reused in another installation by replacing the protective shield component 350 with a new shield component 350.

[0059] In this manner, the locator device 300 facilitates subsequent installation of motorized blinds, doorbell cameras where the wire passes through solid structures like concrete and / or wood structures. For example, motorized blinds are often installed on windows with solid frames made of wood, concrete, and or the like. Thus, the locator device 300 is configured to facilitate prewire and ready location / access of prewire through solid wood, through concrete, through solid headers or frames. In an example embodiment, the locator device can be pointed down into the framed opening or pointed out towards the face of the header, framing or wall structure. Moreover, any suitable orientation may be used.

[0060] In an example embodiment, and with reference to FIGS. 4A-4D, a cover locator device 499 may comprise a cover 460 and a locator device 400. The locator device 400 may be similar to the locator device 300 discussed with reference to FIG. 3. The cover 460 may comprise a planar structure 465 having a first side 4 1 and a second side 462 opposite the first side. The cover 460 may be configured to have the locator device 400 attached to the first side 461.

[0061] The cover 460 may be configured to conceal an electrical box, gang box or the like. In one example embodiment, the concealed object (e.g., gang box) may be prewired for a future electrical device. Thus, the cover locator device 499 may provide a clean way of concealing and later locating prewired junction boxes or other objects. In an example embodiment, the cover may be configured to be placed over a gang box, mudring or other such enclosure. In other example embodiments, the cover may be configured to be recessed inside a box, mudring or other enclosure.

[0062] In one example embodiment, the planar structure 465 is rectangular, see FIG. 4C. For example, the planar structure may be configured to cover a single gang box. In another example embodiment, the cover is of a size and shape to cover a four square or double gang box, see FIG 4B. In this later example embodiment, the cover 460 comprises screw holes for both the four-square configuration and the double gang box configuration, such that the same cover can be used for either application. In a further example embodiment, the cover is configured to cover an octagonal gang box, see FIG. 4D. e.g., for a possible future light fixture.

[0063] In accordance with an example embodiment, the cover 460 may be configured to removably attach the locator device 400 to the first side 461 of the planar structure. In this regard, the first side 461 of the planar structure may further comprise a first cover wall 471 and a second cover wall 472. The first and second walls 471 / 472 may extend perpendicularly away from the first side 461. In an example embodiment, the first and second walls 471 / 472 are curved conformal to the outer shape of the locator device 400. The first and second walls 471 / 472 are configured to removably attach the locator device 400 to the planar structure.

[0064] In an example embodiment, the first and second walls 471 / 472 each comprise a locking ridge (e.g. 472 A) located facing each other on the interior of the first and second walls, respectively. The locking ridges (e.g. 472A) are configured to retain the locator device connected to the cover. In an example embodiment, the locator device is pressed in between the first and second cover walls 471 / 472, and then twisted to lock into place. The walls and locking ridge are configured to receive the locator device 400 and the grooves of the locator device 400 are configured to engage the locking ridges (e.g., 472A). For example, a locator device 400 may be configured to lock into position by placing the locator device 400 in the center of the back between to the two wall sections 471472, and turning the locator device 400 one quarter turn to lock it into securement with the cover 460. In this manner, the grooves on the outside of the locator device 400 may be locked into the ridges on the inside of the extensionwalls 471 / 472 of the cover 460. Moreover, any suitable system may be used to temporarily attach the locator device 400 to the planar structure 465.[00651 In an example embodiment, the cover locator device 499 comprises holes for injection molding. In an example embodiment, the second side 462 of the planar structure may comprise lines or texture to facilitate a skim coat adhering to the second side 462 of the planar structure 465.

[0066] Thus, during construction, a wire can be attached to the locator device, the locator device can be pressed in between the two walls 471 / 472 and twisted into locking engagement with the cover walls 471 / 472, and the cover locator device 499 can be installed covering a gang box or the like. At this point, the cover locator device 499 and gang box can be covered by concrete, plaster, or other type skim coat finish. At a subsequent time, the locator device 400 can be located with a magnet finder, the location marked, and a drill can drill a hole, through the surface skim coat or other covering material, with a hole saw of a suitable diameter down to the cover and through the cover’s planar structure 465. The diameter of the hole may be somewhat larger than the locator device and smaller than the shortest dimension of the cover, such that the planar structure remains as a single structure with a hole in the middle of the structure. When this is done, the locator device 400 and a connected portion of the cover locator device 499 will fall back into the box and can be extracted through the drilled hole, drawing the wires with it. Alternatively, the entire cover 499 can be fully removed exposing the full underlying electrical box. The wires can be unattached from the locator device, which can be reused in another construction project.

[0067] With reference now to FIG. 4E and 4G, in an example embodiment, a stub cover locator device 498 is disclosed. Stub cover locator device 498 may comprise a stub 497, a stub cover 495 and a locator device 496. FIG. 4E illustrates a side view 491a, a bottom view 491b, and a perspective view7491c of the stub 497. FIG. 4E further illustrates a top view 491 d and perspective view7491 e of the stub cover 495. In an example embodiment, the stub 497 comprises a conduit connection 493, for connection to an end of a conduit. The stub 497 may comprise a hollow inner portion for receiving the stub cover 495 and locator device 496, and recessing the stub cover and locator device into the stub 497 body creating a flush fit across the bottom, and protecting the contents from infiltration of concrete or other materials (e.g. foam, insulation or the like).

[0068] In an example embodiment, the locator device 496 may be similar to the locator device 300 discussed with reference to FIG. 3. including containing a magnet configured to belocatable at a subsequent time when covered by plaster, concrete or the like. In an example embodiment, the stub cover 495 may comprise conformal walls 495a configured to retain the locator device 496. The locator device may be retained similar as described in this disclosure with other embodiments. The stub cover 495 may be attached to the stub 497 via a screw 494, or any suitable attachment mechanism.

[0069] In an example embodiment, and with reference to FIG. 4F, a stub ring 485 is disclosed. Stub ring 485, in an example embodiment may comprise walls 481. In an example embodiment, the walls form a rectangular structure having four sides, with an opening forming a ‘ring' like structure. The stub ring 485 may be rectangular, square, or any suitable shape. The stub ring 485 may further comprise a cross bar 482 that connects across the opening from one wall to an opposite wall of the stub ring 485. In an example embodiment, the cross bar 482 is located flush with the dry wall facing side of the stub ring 485. In an example embodiment, the cross bar 482 may comprise conformal w alls 495a extending from the cross bar 482 perpendicular to the cross bar, away from the dry wall facing side of the stub ring 485. The conformal walls 495a may be configured to retain the locator device 496. The locator device may be retained similar as described in this disclosure with other embodiments. The stub ring 485 may be attached to the stub 497 via a screw 494, or any suitable attachment mechanism. Stated more generally, a stub ring 485 may be comprise a rectangular ring like structure configured to hold a locator device 496 within the walls of the stub ring 485. In an example embodiment, the stub ring 485 is configured to be attached to the open surface of the stub 497.

[0070] In an example embodiment, and with reference to FIGs. 4G and 4H, a conduit may be run, and the stub 497 may be attached to the end of the conduit. Concrete may be formed about the conduit and stub 497, with the opening of the stub 497 uncovered after the concrete has been poured. A string, wire, or the like, may be pulled through the conduit and tied to the locator device 496.

[0071] In an example embodiment, and with reference to FIG. 4G, the locator device 496 can be pushed into the stub cover 495 and twisted into engagement with the vertical walls of the stub cover 495. such that the locator device is retained in the stub cover 495. In this example embodiment, the stub cover 495 and locator device 496 are inserted into the stub 497 such that the stub cover 495 is flush with the bottom of stub 497, and retained in place with the screw- 494. After this, the stub cover locator device 498 a plaster or concrete finish coat may coverthe stub cover locator device 498, to be ‘found’ later when access to the conduit and string / wire is desired.[00721 In an example embodiment, and with reference to FIG. 4H, the locator device 496 is pushed into the stub ring 485 and twisted into engagement with the vertical walls of the stub ring 485, such that the locator device is retained in the stub ring 485. In this example embodiment, the stub ring 485 and locator device 496 are attached proud to the stub 497 such that the stub ring 485 stands off of the surface of the concrete slab, and is retained in place with the screw 494. After this, plywood backing may be attached to the concrete. Then the stub ring 485 may be covered with drywall, wood, metal, plaster or a concrete finish coat (or the like) may cover the stub cover locator device 498, to be ‘found’ later when access to the conduit and string / wire is desired. In an example embodiment, the stub may be set at a first point in time, and the stub ring may optionally be added at a point in time further into the future.

[0073] In both the stub cover and stub ring embodiments, each could further include a tab, e.g., as illustrated in FIGs. 4E and 4F to facilitate connecting the stub cover and stub ring respectively with a single attachment device (e g. screw). The stub may comprise a corresponding tab receptacle configured to receive the tab.

[0074] With reference now to FIG. 5, in an example embodiment, a trimport (e.g. 500A or 500B) comprises a circular grommet 580 and a wire-tail 510. In an example embodiment, the wire-tail 510 is similar to the wire-tail 210 described above in connection with FIG. 2. In an example embodiment, the circular grommet 580 may comprise a circular wall, a circular outer flange, and a cap.

[0075] In an example embodiment, the trimport 500A / 500B can be mounted in any surface to cover an opening (e.g., a 1 inch opening, though any suitable size opening can be covered) and allow a wire or wires to pass through. In an example embodiment, the trimport 500A / 500B is configured to fit within the opening. In an example embodiment, the circular wall has a diameter to fit within the opening. In an example embodiment, the circular wall is attached to the wire-tail, with the wire-tail 510 and circular wall both perpendicular to the plane of the circular outer flange (i.e., perpendicular to the surface with the opening in which the trimport is placed). In an example embodiment, the circular outer flange extends perpendicular from the circular wall. In some example embodiments, the circular outer flange is removable.

[0076] In application, the trimport may be used to trim out a 1 " opening in any solid surface such as a wall, ceiling, cabinet or built-in shelf unit, for example, can be used behind motorized blinds or exterior camera brackets. Although the trimport may not be watertight it may beconfigured to at least partially seal the opening, keeping out bugs and water. Importantly, the trimport may be configured to prevent the wires from falling back into the hole, down the wall or the like. This can be accomplished by semi permanently attaching the wires to the wire-tail 510. Thus, the trimport may be used to install as a grommet, but a grommet that prevents the wires from sliding out of reach.

[0077] In an example embodiment, the trimport 500A comprises a dropout 590 replacing the cap of trimport 500B. In this example embodiment, the dropout 590 may comprise a cover 592 that is supported by a semicircular wall 594. The dropout 590 is configured to hide a central opening in the grommet through which the wires extend, while permitting the wires to pass through the central opening. In an example embodiment, the wires are left connected to the wire tail, even when they are in use extended through the grommet, so that if unattached, they cannot be lost by retracting into the wall.

[0078] Thus, in an example embodiment, a trimport may comprise a grommet and a wiretail connected to the grommet, the wire-tail configured to prevent a wire from sliding away from the grommet. The trimport may further comprise a drop out.

[0079] With reference now to FIGS. 6A and 6B, in an example embodiment, a circular bracket 600 is disclosed. In accordance with various example embodiments, the circular bracket 600 comprises a top portion 601A or 601B and a bottom portion 640. In various example embodiments, the bottom portion 640 comprises a circular wall 641. The circular wall 641 may comprise a central opening. In an example embodiment, a wire may be passed through the central opening. The circular bracket 600 may further comprise a circular flange 642 perpendicular to the circular wall and configured to be parallel to I flush with the surface through which the circular bracket 600 may be inserted. In an example embodiment, the circular bracket 600 may be inserted in a hole in a surface, table, wall, or the like.

[0080] In application, the circular bracket may be located in place through a planar structure 670 or the like (e.g. a sheet metal structure). The circular flange 642 seats against the planar structure, keeping the device from falling through the planar structure. A nut 643 can be screwed over the circular structure and sandwich the planar structure between the nut 643 and the circular flange 642. In an example embodiment, once installed in the sheet metal structure or the like, the flange can be covered with a covering surface 671 (e.g., stucco).

[0081] In an example embodiment, the top portion 601 A or 601B each comprises a circular structure configured to mate with the bottom portion 640. In one example embodiment, the circular structure mates the top and bottom portions by screw-on connection, though theconnection can be any suitable connection. The circular structure may comprise an opening through which a wire may be passed. The top portion 601A or 601B each further comprise a support structure 612 suitable for semi-permanently attaching a wire to the top portion. For example, the support structure 612 may be connected to a portion of the inner diameter of the circular wall of the top portion 601B. For example, the support structure 612 may be configured to extend across most of the lower half of the central opening. In an example embodiment, the support structure 612 comprises holes suitable for receiving the pins of the locator device 200 described in FIG. 2. In a first example embodiment, the top portion 601 A or 601B is configured to semi-permanently retain a locator device 200 by inserting the pins of the locator device 200 into the holes of the support structure 612. In an example embodiment, once the circular structure is installed in the sheet metal surface, the locator device can be removed, the wires tied to the support structure 612, and the locator device 200 reinserted in the circular structure. The assembly may be covered with sheetrock or the like and the wires found at a later time by locating the locator device 200 with a magnet detector as in the other examples.10082] In an example embodiment, the circular bracket 600 is configured to hold a locator device 200 in a steel stud after a hole has been punched in the steel stud. In this example embodiment, the circular bracket is inserted into the hole in the face of the steel stud. The wire is drawn through the circular bracket and tied to the locator device. Then the locator device is attached to the top portion and the top portion is connected to the bottom portion, sliding over the bottom portion sandwiching the steel stud between the two units and holding the locator device flush with the face of the steel stud to be covered and found later to be pulled out at a later time.

[0083] In an example embodiment, and with reference to FIGs. 7A-C, a circular bracket 700 is disclosed. In an example embodiment, the circular bracket 700 comprises cylindrical walls, 710, an annular flange 720, and a support structure 730 (e.g. 730A and 730B). The annular flange 720 may be connected to a proximal end of the cylindrical walls 710. In one example embodiment, the annular flange is removable.

[0084] In one example embodiment, the support structure 730A is located near the distal end of the circular wall / central opening (away from the surface end). In this example embodiment, the locator device 200 is recessed within the circular bracket, such that the circular bracket can be covered and the locator device be flush (smooth) with the surface of the annular flange 720. In another example embodiment, the support structure 730B is locatednear the proximal end (the ‘edge’) of the circular wall / central opening (near the surface end, such that the locator device 200 is supported “proud” standing out in front of the surface of the flange. FIG. 7D shows the locator device 200 installed in the circular bracket 700.[00851 In application, the circular bracket 700 may be located in place through a planar structure or the like (e.g. a sheetrock ceiling). Then the locator device 200 can be removed from the circular bracket 700, the wires tied to the support structure (e.g. 730A or 730B), and the locator device 200 reinserted into the circular bracket 700. The structure can then be covered with sheetrock or the like, and discovered at a later date to find the wires attached to the locator device (through the use of a magnetic finder as in other examples herein).

[0086] In an example embodiment, and with reference to FIG. 7E, in some embodiments, the circular bracket 700 comprises one or more fins 740. The fins 740 may be located perpendicular to the annular flange 720. The fins 740 may be connected to the cylindrical walls 710, perpendicular thereto, and running alongside the cylindrical walls. In an example embodiment, the fins 740 have a taper toward the distal end to cut into dry wall and the like. In a further example embodiment, the circular bracket 700 comprises anchor points 750. The anchor points 750 may comprise any structure configured to bite into the drywall to keep the circular bracket from rotating in place, to keep it from falling through the hole, etc. In one example embodiment, the anchor points 750 are rectangular, though any suitable shape may be used. In one example embodiment, after a circular hole is cut in the drywall, the circular bracket 700 is pressed into the dry wall, the annular flange 720 is removed from the circular bracket 700, the locator device 200 is connected to wires and installed in the circular bracket 700, a cap 780, see e.g., FIG. 7F, is optionally placed over the circular bracket opening, and the entire device can be plastered or "mudded" over flush in the wall. This is useful in retrofit cases where a strap cannot be easily run between studs, and where one can just make a hole in the surface and push this in until it reaches stops on the device.

[0087] In an example embodiment, and with reference to FIGs. 8A and 8B, a slack box 800 comprises a rectilinear structure, configured to hold a length of wire, the wire having a length that is at least double the length of the rectilinear structure. The rectilinear structure may be hollow and comprise any suitable shape that can contain a length of wire in such a way that it can be pulled out of the rectilinear structure. In an example embodiment, the rectilinear structure comprises side walls and a first end wall and a second end wall. The first end wall is attached to the side walls on a first end of the side walls, and the second end wall is attached to the side walls on a second end of the side walls opposite the first end. In an exampleembodiment, the side walls and end walls form a box or a container. In an example embodiment the slack box comprises a first opening for receiving a wire. The slack box comprises a second opening through which the wire may exit the slack box. In some example embodiments, the first opening is used to both let the wire in and out, and no second opening is needed. The slack box may comprise a lid or flap 850 configured to permit access when loading the slack wire.

[0088] In an example embodiment, while pre-wiring, the wire may be run through the walls to the location near where a future component may be installed. The wire may be inserted into the slack box with an extra length of wire tucked into the slack box. Ideally, the wire is looped in the slack box such that a portion or all of it can be pulled out without tangling. The slack box can then be installed attached to a structure (e.g., a structure within the wall). I.e.. the slack box can be installed, then hidden by dry wall, wood, siding or other covering.

[0089] In an example embodiment, the slack box protects the wire from foam. Or stated another way, without the slack box, when foam or other insulation is installed in the space where a spare amount of wire is located, the foam or insulation may make it difficult to pull the spare wire out of the wall.

[0090] In another example embodiment, the slack box 800 may be configured to orient the spare length of wire in the direction that it will be pulled. For example, the wire loop may be vertically oriented so it can be pulled in a vertical direction down through the opening below the slack box. For example, the wire may be oriented in an inverted U shape such that one leg of the U can be pulled own when slack is needed.

[0091] In an example embodiment, the slack box may be combined with a locator device for holding the end of the wire that passes through the slack box, with an extra length of wire hidden / protected and ready to be pulled from the slack box. The locator device, similar to locator device 200, can later be found, and the wires pulled, at least partially, from the slack box. In one example embodiment, the slack box stores an extra 8 inches of wire that can easily be pulled out or pushed back into the slack box. In one example embodiment, the slack box has dimensions of 6" x 6" x .75", though any length of wire and any dimensions may be used. In an example embodiment, the slack box may comprise any rigid enclosure that attaches to structural framing, with a wire exist centered over the ultimate future wired component, and configured to keep out insulation or the like. Moreover, the slack box can be triangular shaped, cylindrical, or any suitable cross-sectional shape that makes it easy to pull through or push back slack wire as needed. In an example embodiment, a rounded slack box 810 is illustrated havinga hat like structure, but similarly configured to house and deploy a quantity' of wire to be pulled out at a later date. The slack box may be configured to keep wires clean and easily accessible. The slack box may be configured to protect wires from other trades, insulators, painters, etc. In an example embodiment, the wire is configured to exit the slack box near one side of the slack box to help straighten out the pull withdrawing the wire from the slack box.

[0092] In one example embodiment, the slack box comprises attachment points, such as screw holes to hold the slack box bubble 810, see FIG. 8B. in place and to keep insulation away from the wires. In an example embodiment, the slack box bubble 810 comprises one or more knockouts for accepting a wire loop inside the slack box and facilitating withdrawal of the same.

[0093] In one example embodiment, the slack box is made of cardboard, plastic, and or any suitable materials.

[0094] In an example embodiment, the slack box bubble 810 is located directly above the location where the wire needs to be pulled out, such as above the hole in a frame or header. This will facilitate pulling the slack wire into position to install blinds or other devices.

[0095] In accordance with various example embodiments, slack box bubble 810 is illustrated installed inside wall framing in FIGs 8C. The slack box 800 could be similarly installed. In other example embodiments, the slack box 800 can be installed hanging off of two runs of the straps shown in FIG. 1. On the right side is installation of the locator device 300, from FIG 3.

[0096] Thus, in an example embodiment, a slack box may comprise: a rectilinear structure, configured to hold a length of wire, the wire having a length that is at least double the length of the rectilinear structure; side walls; a first end w all; and a second end w all, w herein the first end wall is attached to the side walls on a first end of the side walls, and the second end wall is attached to the side walls on a second end of the side walls opposite the first end; wherein the side walls and end walls form a box; a first opening for receiving a wire; a second opening through which the wire may exit the slack box.

[0097] In another example embodiment, a slack box bubble may comprise: a structure configured to hold a length of wire, the wire having a length that is at least double the greatest dimension of the rectilinear structure; the structure further comprising an enclosure surrounding the length of wire with an opening on a first end. The structure may further comprise one or more connection points for attaching the structure in a fixed location (e.g., to a stud, a strap, or the like. The connection points may be located at the first end. The slackbox bubble may be configured to receive a wire through the opening and to pass the wire through the same opening for pulling the wire from the slack box. It is noted that the wire may be any of the string, wire, cable, etc. as described herein.[00981 With reference now to FIG. 9, in accordance with an example embodiment, a slide locator device is disclosed. The slide locator device 900 may comprise a locator device 910 (or “mudring” or electrical box) configured to be moveable along one or more straps attached to two parallel studs (framing members, or other such structure) in a wall. In an example embodiment, a first strap 901 is connected between two parallel studs in a wall. In an example embodiment, a second strap 902 is connected between the two parallel studs. The straps may be parallel to each other. In an example embodiment, the locator device 910 is configured to slide along the two straps. In an example embodiment, the mudring comprises holes along an outer edge. In an example embodiment, the box or ring is configured to attach the bracket to the ring by attaching the bracket to holes in the box or ring.

[0099] In one example embodiment, the slide locator device 900 further comprises slide brackets 911 and 912. Slide bracket 911 may slide along strap 901. and slide bracket 912 may slide along strap 902. The slide brackets 911 and 912 may each comprise a loop or other smooth structure configured to securely slide along the straps. For example, the slide brackets may encircle the straps, may form a C shape bracket about the straps, or a U-shaped bracket riding above and below the straps, or any suitable slidable connection. In an example embodiment, the slide brackets comprise hoops that snap into the mudring openings (e.g., comer screw holes or any holes in the back of the mudring or box.

[0100] In an example embodiment, the locator device 910 connects to each of slide brackets 911 and 912. In another example embodiment, the slide brackets are integral parts of the locator device 910. The locator device 910, similar to locator device 200, may comprise a magnet, or may be configured to hold a locator device. The benefit of the locator device 900 is that an installer can easily move the locator device 910 along the straps to modify the position in case the desired location changes. This is particularly useful where precision alignment is desired. In one example embodiment, the locator device 910 is positioned on straps and covered with a surface covering, then at a subsequent time, the locator device can both be found, and / or moved (slid along the straps) prior to drilling or even after drilling the hole through the covering surface. Thus, in an example embodiment, the slide locator device 900 is configured to easily slide under force of a magnet along the straps or manually sliding it through a hole cut in the surface to the required location.

[0101] In an example embodiment, a locator device can be mounted in the middle of a mudring and can be removed later. The mudring may comprise a metal or plastic low voltage receptable with no enclosure, or a removable back enclosure, hence the name "ring". The mudring or electrical box can be mounted in desired location. Thus, the mudring locator device disclosed herein facilitates providing multiple future or undecided locations like multiple TV locations, touchscreens or Projectors. In an example embodiment, a customer can create multiple TV or projector locations and decide which one to use later without having the blank wall plates cluttering up the wall.

[0102] Design phase: Future locations (with wire or conduit types) are added to a list and or placed on a floor plan or images of the project to create a design. General locations are selected on the plan and roughed-in. Architects / Designers can choose exact locations to line up with aesthetic or architectural features.

[0103] Layout phase. A new locator device is placed in a desired location using appropriate mounting solution before running any wire or conduit. Determining location and making changes prior to running wire saves time and possible wire savings. This also allows the client, builder, or architects to approve locations without the contractor walking the job multiple times. In this way the contractor can be notified about changes before the wires are installed. It is desirable to select the optimum location when the walls are open and have an easy way to find invisible location not requiring an expensive employee to come back later to install a 99 cent wall plate or plug at $70 dollars an hour or more.

[0104] Rough in phase. Following the layout, the locator devices, wall box, speaker brackets, touchscreen brackets are all placed and approved. Then the wire is run to each of these locations. But rather than leaving the wires in the wall either coiled up or stapled between studs or joists, or rather than being forced to put a wall box / Mud ring or plug on the nearest stud or joist (which is almost never in the optimum location), the locator devices can be placed. While the mud ring / wall box and wall plate or plug are cheap, the labor to go back to project to install the wall plate or plug can be expensive. Use of the locator devices is more accurate than other locating methods, less time consuming than such prior art methods, results in the wires being ready at the optimum location, instead of on nearest stud or joist. This can also save having to repair walls / ceilings later.

[0105] Thus, through various combinations of the example embodiments disclosed herein, the present disclosure provides improved ways to locate, wires or devices, hidden behind a covering, for a future speaker, TV or keypad, electric blinds, and the like. In an exampleembodiment, as part of the construction process, future wiring and locations are preset using a mounting solution and / or wire locator devices and systems. Whether it is for speakers, TVs, keypads, securin’ devices, lighting fixtures, touchscreens, or motorized shades to name a few, prewiring with a locator device (or prewiring with a mounting solution to which a locator device can later be added) locks in an exact location for possible future use and helps in finding that location when ready to access / install at that location. In other example embodiments, devices like a locator device, cover plate, ring and / or box can be added after original construction, to a mounting solution such as a standard high or low voltage electrical box, stubby, mudring, conduit or junction point.[001061 In accordance with the various example embodiments, herein disclosed, a Tinder’ device may be used to locate the magnet in the ‘locator device’ that is hidden under drywall, w ood, metal, concrete, and / or the like. The finder may be any suitable device for detecting the magnet and facilitating accurately penetrating the covering material to gain access to the locator device / wire / string / mudring / electrical box, and / or the like.

[0107] In the present disclosure, the following terminology will be used: The singular forms “a,” ‘‘an,” and "the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to an item includes reference to one or more items. The term “ones” refers to one, two, or more, and generally applies to the selection of some or all of a quantity. The term “plurality” refers to two or more of an item. The term “about” means quantities, dimensions, sizes, formulations, parameters, shapes, and other characteristics need not be exact, but may be approximated and / or larger or smaller, as desired, reflecting acceptable tolerances, conversion factors, rounding off, measurement error and the like and other factors known to those of skill in the art. The term “substantially” means that the recited characteristic, parameter, or value need not be achieved exactly, but that deviations or variations, including, for example, tolerances, measurement error, measurement accuracy limitations and other factors know n to those of skill in the art, may occur in amounts that do not preclude the effect the characteristic was intended to provide. Numerical data may be expressed or presented herein in a range format. It is to be understood that such a range format is used merely for convenience and brevity and thus should be interpreted flexibly to include not only the numerical values explicitly recited as the limits of the range, but also interpreted to include all of the individual numerical values or sub-ranges encompassed within that range as if each numerical value and sub-range is explicitly recited. As an illustration, a numerical range of “about 1 to 5” should be interpreted to include not only the explicitly recited values of about 1to about 5, but also include individual values and sub-ranges within the indicated range. Thus, included in the numerical range are individual values such as 2, 3 and 4 and sub-ranges such as 1-3, 2-4 and 3-5, etc. The same principle applies to ranges reciting only one numerical value (e.g., “greater than about 1”) and should apply regardless of the breadth of the range or the characteristics being described. A plurality of items may be presented in a common list for convenience. However, these lists should be construed as though each member of the list is individually identified as a separate and unique member. Thus, no individual member of such list should be construed as a de facto equivalent of any other member of the same list solely based on their presentation in a common group without indications to the contrary. Furthermore, where the terms “and’' and “or” are used in conjunction with a list of items, they are to be interpreted broadly, in that any one or more of the listed items may be used alone or in combination with other listed items. The term “alternatively” refers to selection of one of two or more alternatives, and is not intended to limit the selection to only those listed alternatives or to only one of the listed alternatives at a time, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.100108] It should be appreciated that the particular implementations shown and described herein are illustrative of the example embodiments and their best mode and are not intended to otherwise limit the scope of the present disclosure in any way. Furthermore, the connecting lines shown in the various figures contained herein are intended to represent exemplary functional relationships and / or physical couplings between the various elements. It should be noted that many alternative or additional functional relationships or physical connections may be present in a practical device.

[0109] As one skilled in the art will appreciate, the mechanism of the present disclosure may be suitably configured in any of several ways. It should be understood that the mechanism described herein with reference to the figures is but one exemplary embodiment of the disclosure and is not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure as described above.

[0110] It should be understood, however, that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, are given for purposes of illustration only and not of limitation. Many changes and modifications within the scope of the instant disclosure may be made without departing from the spirit thereof, and the disclosure includes all such modifications. The corresponding structures, materials, acts, and equivalents of all elements in the claims below' are intended to include any structure, material, or acts for performing the functions in combination with other claimed elements as specificallyclaimed. The scope of the disclosure should be determined by the appended claims and their legal equivalents, rather than by the examples given above. For example, the operations recited in any method claims may be executed in any order and are not limited to the order presented in the claims. Moreover, no element is essential to the practice of the disclosure unless specifically described herein as “critical” or “essential.”

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A locator device configured to be inserted in an opening, the locator device comprising: a connection component configured to semi-permanently connected to a wire or string; a body portion connected to the connection component, wherein the connection component extends away from the body portion, the body portion further comprising a magnet contained within the body portion, wherein the locator device further comprises a wall portion comprising grooves for gripping an interior surface of the opening.

2. The locator device of claim 1, wherein the wall portion is integrated into the body portion.

3. The locator device of claim 1, wherein the wall portion comprises a first wall portion, and wherein the body portion further comprises: a central portion, a base portion connected to the central portion; and a second wall portion, wherein the first wall portion is connected on one end to the base portion, wherein the second wall portion is connected on one end to the base portion, and wherein the first and second wall portions are configured to flex inwardly toward the central portion, on the respective ends that extend away from the base portion, for retaining the locator device in the opening.

4. The locator device of claim 1, further comprising a shield component removably connected to the body portion for protecting the body portion.

5. The locator device of claim 1, wherein the central portion comprises a clamshell sandwiched about the magnet.

6. The locator device of claim 1, wherein the location device is reusable with the exception of the shield component.

7. The locator device of claim 3, wherein the first wall portion and the second wall portion each comprise grooves to grip the interior surface of the opening.

8. The locator device of claim 1, wherein the first wall portion and second wall portion are configured to flex radially when inserted in a hole to apply an outward radial force to retain the locator device within the hole.

9. A cover locator device comprising: a cover; and the locator device of claim 1, wherein the cover further comprises: a planar structure having a first side and a second side opposite the first side; a first cover wall and a second cover wall, each attached to the first side and extending away from the first side, wherein the first cover wall and second cover wall are configured to removably attach the locator device to the planar structure.

10. The cover locator device of claim 9, wherein the cover is configured to cover a gang box to be built into a wall and then covered over.

11. The cover locator device of claim 9, wherein the first cover wall comprises a first outer surface and a first inner surface, wherein the second cover wall comprises a second outer surface and second inner surface, wherein the first and second inner surfaces are each configured to engage with the locator device to retain the locator device.

12. The cover locator device of claim 11, wherein the first and second inner surfaces each comprise a locking ridge for locking the locator device to the cover when the locator device is rotated.

13. The cover locator device of claim 11, wherein the first and second inner surfaces are curved with a radius of curvature to conform to the locator device.

14. The cover locator device of claim 12, wherein the grooves on the outside of the locator device may be locked into the ridges on the inside of the first and second cover walls of the cover.

15. A stub locator device comprising: a stub having a conduit connection port, and a hollow interior with an open end opposite the conduit connection port; a locator device comprising: a connection component configured to semi-permanently connected to a wire or string; a body portion connected to the connection component, wherein the connection component extends away from the body portion, the body portion further comprising a magnet contained within the body portion, wherein the locator device further comprises a wall portion comprising grooves; a stub cover comprising: a planar structure having a first side and a second side opposite the first side; a first stub cover wall and a second stub cover wall, each attached to the first side and extending away from the first side, wherein the first cover wall and second cover wall are configured to removably attach the locator device to the planar structure; wherein the stub cover and locator device are configured to be inserted in the hollow interior of the stub, flush with an opening of the stub.

16. A stub locator device comprising: a stub having a conduit connection port, and a hollow interior with an open end opposite the conduit connection port; a locator device comprising: a connection component configured to semi-permanently connected to a wire or string; a body portion connected to the connection component, wherein the connection component extends away from the body portion, the body portion further comprising a magnet contained within the body portion, wherein the locator device further comprises a wall portion comprising grooves;a stub ring comprising: a rectangular ring structure having a first wall and a second wall; a cross bar extending from the first wall to the second wall; wherein the cross bar has a first side and a second side opposite the first side; a first ring wall and a second ring wall, each attached to the first side and extending away from the first side, wherein the first ring wall and second ring wall are configured to removably attach the locator device to the stub ring; wherein the stub ring and locator device are configured to be attached to the stub, proud of the open end.

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