Wire management clip

Abstract

In various embodiments, a wire management clip may comprise a mounting clip, a wire clip and a locking mechanism. The mounting clip can comprise an outer clip and an inner clip. The outer clip and inner clip may be operable to clamp onto a frame (e.g., a solar panel frame). The wire clip may be coupled to one of the inner clip and the outer clip. The wire clip may comprise a wire slot. The wire clip may be sized to retain one or more wires in the wire slot. The locking mechanism may be configured to retain the inner clip and the outer clip onto the frame.

Description

TITLE: WIRE MANAGEMENT CLIPINVENTORS: BRADY HODDINOTTBRADY SCHIMPF BENJAMIN WADECROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIOINS

[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Serial No. 63 / 550,349 filed on February 6, 2024, and entitled Wire Management Clip with Adjustable Flange and U.S. Serial No. 63 / 656,828 filed on June 6, 2024, and entitled Wire Management Clip with Adjustable Flange, each of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety for any purpose.FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to wire management and, more specifically, to adjustable wire management clips.BACKGROUND

[0003] Wire management is an important aspect in various applications, including electrical and solar power systems. Effective wire management ensures the safety, functionality, and longevity of the installations. In electrical systems, poor wire management can lead to issues such as short circuits, electrical fires, and inefficient operation. Similarly, in solar applications, improper wire management can reduce the efficiency of the photovoltaic system, introduce safety hazards, and complicate installation and maintenance operations.

[0004] The development of wire management solutions has thus become an essential task for engineers and product designers. Traditional wire management devices, such as clips, clamps, and cable ties, have been widely used. However, these conventional solutions often lack the adaptability and precision needed for complex and evolving installation environments. There is a growing need for innovative wire management devices that can accommodate a variety of wire sizes, configurations, and environmental conditions while providing secure and reliable performance.

[0005] One such innovative solution is the wire management clip with an adjustable flange. The wire management clips described herein address the limitations of traditional wire management devices by offering a more versatile and customizable approach. The adjustable flange design allows for secure wire placement in diverse scenarios, enhancing both the safety and efficiency of electrical and solar installations.SUMMARY

[0006] In various embodiments, a wire management clip may comprise a mounting clip, a wire clip and a locking mechanism. The mounting clip can comprise an outer clip and an inner clip. The outer clip and inner clip may be operable to clamp onto a frame (e.g., a solar panel frame). The frame may comprise a top, a side structure, and a flange. The side structure may be coupled to the top, the side structure and flange. This arrangement may form an L-shape terminating in the flange. The wire clip may be coupled to one of the inner clip and the outer clip. The wire clip may comprise a wire slot. The wire clip may be sized to retain one or more wires in the wire slot. The locking mechanism may be configured to retain the inner clip and the outer clip onto the frame.

[0007] In various embodiments, the outer clip may be configured to engage the side structure, and the inner clip may be configured to engage the flange. The wire clip may be coupled to the inner clip. The outer clip may comprise a vertical arm extending along an exterior side of the side structure.

[0008] In some embodiments, the inner clip may comprise a flange slot configured to conform to the flange.

[0009] In some embodiments, the wire slot may be oriented to face the side structure.

[0010] In some embodiments, an end of the wire clip may be sized to extend towards the side structure to contact the side structure when the flange may be positioned in the flange slot.

[0011] In some embodiments, portions of the inner clip forming the flange slot comprise a spring force and a size of the flange slot to create a friction fit to the flange.

[0012] In some embodiments, the outer clip may be configured to engage the side structure, and the inner clip may be configured to engage the flange and / or the side structure. The locking mechanism may comprise a threaded bolt extending through the outer clip and inner clip. In response to tightening the threaded bolt, the outer clip moves toward the inner clip. The threaded bolt may comprise a hex-shaped head, a slot for a screwdriver, and / or a head comprising grooves around a perimeter configured for a user to grip the head at the grooves when tightening the threaded bolt.

[0013] In some embodiments, the outer clip and inner clip clamp onto the frame with a locking mechanism in response to the outer clip sliding into the inner clip to engage a side of the frame. The locking mechanism may comprise bottom teeth on a bottom of the outer clip and opposing teeth on the inner clip. The opposing teeth may be mounted on a locking arm on the inner clip. The locking arm may be flexible and exerts a spring force against the bottom teeth. In response to exerting a force on the locking arm, the opposing teeth disengage from the bottom teeth. The outer clip may comprisea vertical arm extending along an exterior side of the side structure. The vertical arm of the outer clip may comprise a retention arm configured to engage the side structure. The retention arm may be oriented towards the inner clip. The retention arm configured to provide a spring force opposing movement of the vertical arm towards the frame. The range of the retention arm may be greater than a distance between two adjacent bottom teeth of the bottom teeth of the outer clip.

[0014] In some embodiments, the inner clip of the wire management clip may comprise a retainer channel and the outer clip may comprise a retainer tooth positioned in the retainer channel. In other embodiments, the outer clip the wire management clip may comprise a retainer channel and the inner clip may comprise a retainer tooth positioned in the retainer channel. In some embodiments, one or both ends of the retainer channel may be positioned to limit travel of the outer clip within the inner clip.

[0015] In some embodiments, the outer clip may be configured to engage a comer of the frame between the top and the side structure and the inner clip may be configured to engage the flange and / or the side structure. The inner clip may comprise a vertical extension that extends past an end of the flange and / or bottom of the side structure towards the top of the frame. The wire clip may be positioned on the vertical extension and may be oriented with the wire slot facing the top of the frame. The wire clip may be sized to extend towards the top of the frame a distance such that one of: the wire clip touches the top; and / or a gap between the top and an end of the wire clip may be less than a diameter of wire in the wire clip.

[0016] In some embodiments, the wire clip may be coupled to the outer clip. The locking mechanism may comprise a threaded bolt extending through the outer clip and inner clip. In response to tightening the threaded bolt, the outer clip moves toward the inner clip.

[0017] In some embodiments, the wire clip further may comprise a wire holder extending into the wire slot. The wire holder may comprise a flexible material that creates a spring force towards wire in the wire holder. The wire holder may comprise one or more notches sized to accommodate a wire in each notch of the one or more notches.

[0018] In various embodiments, a wire management clip may comprise a mounting clip and a wire clip. The mounting clip operable to clamp onto a frame. The frame may comprise a top, a side structure, and a flange. The side structure may be coupled to the top. The side structure and flange may form an L-shape terminating in the flange. The mounting clip may comprise an outer clip and an inner clip. The outer clip may comprise a horizontal section configured to engage a bottom of the sidestructure opposite the top. The outer clip may also comprise a vertical arm extending along an exterior side of the side structure. The inner clip may comprise a hook section shaped to engage a terminating edge of the flange. The inner clip may be coupled to the outer clip via a connecting section. The connecting section may be configured to provide a spring force between the outer clip and the inner clip. This spring forces and orientation allows the hook section to flex away from the outer clip during installation and to maintain the vertical arm against the side structure and the hook section against the flange. The wire clip may be coupled to the inner clip. The wire clip may comprise a wire slot oriented toward the top of the frame. The wire clip sized to retain one or more wires in the wire slot.

[0019] In some embodiments, the hook section may comprise a sloped ramp extending from a top of the hook section opposite the connecting section to a horizonal portion positioned on the flange. The sloped ramp may be sloped toward the outer clip.

[0020] In various embodiments, a wire management clip may comprise a mounting clip, a threaded bolt and a wire clip. The mounting clip may be operable to clamp onto a frame. The frame may comprise a top, a side structure, and a flange, the side structure coupled to the top, the side structure and flange forming an L-shape terminating in the flange. The mounting clip may comprise an upper lip and a lower lip forming a flange slot configured to conform to the flange. The threaded bolt may extend through the lower lip. In response to tightening the threaded bolt exerts a force on the flange to secure the mounting clip to the flange. The wire clip may be coupled the upper lip. The wire clip may comprise a wire slot. The wire clip may be sized to retain one or more wires in the wire slot. The wire slot may orient toward the side structure.

[0021] In some embodiments, an end of the wire clip may be sized to extend towards the side structure to contact the side structure when the flange may be positioned in the flange slot. The threaded bolt may comprise a hex-shaped head, a slot for a screwdriver, and / or a head may comprise grooves around a perimeter configured for a user to grip the head at the grooves when tightening the threaded bolt.

[0022] In various embodiments, a wire management clip may comprise an outer clip, an outer clip, a wire clip and a locking mechanism. The outer clip and the inner clip may be operable to clamp onto a frame the frame may comprise a top, a side structure, and a flange, the side structure coupled to the top, the side structure and flange forming an L-shape terminating in the flange. The wire clip coupled to one of the inner clip and the outer clip. The wire clip may comprise a wire slot. The wire clip sized to retain one or more wires in the wire slot. The locking mechanism configured to retain theinner clip and the outer clip onto the frame. The locking mechanism may comprise an extension arm may comprise teeth coupled to one of the outer clip and the inner clip and a receiving slot on the outer clip or the inner clip without the extension arm. The teeth of the extension arm engage an edge of the receiving slot in response to the extension arm extending through the receiving slot.

[0023] In some embodiments, the outer clip and / or the inner clip comprise a gripping mechanism. The gripping mechanism may be configured to engage sides of the flange in response to the locking mechanism being in a locked position with the inner clip and the outer clip engaging the sides of the flange. The locking mechanism may comprise teeth and / or a non-slip material mounted on a surface of the outer clip and / or the inner clip facing the flange.

[0024] In some embodiments, an end of the extension arm may be flexible and exerts a spring force to maintain one or more of the teeth of the extension arm engaged with the edge of the receiving slot. The receiving slot may be configured with a length configured to allow movement of the extension arm by a user to release the one or more teeth of the extension arm from the edge of the receiving slot.

[0025] In some embodiments, the edge of the receiving slot may comprise one or more opposing teeth configured to engage one or more teeth of the extension arm. In some embodiments, the outer clip may be coupled to the inner clip via a hinge.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] In order that the advantages of the invention will be readily understood, a more particular description of the invention briefly described above will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments that are illustrated in the appended drawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are not therefore to be considered to be limiting of its scope, the invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail using the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0027] Figure 1A is a perspective side view illustrating a wire management clip with an adjustable flange, according to various embodiments;

[0028] Figure IB is a bottom perspective view further illustrating the wire management clip of Figure 1A, according to various embodiments;

[0029] Figure 1C is a first side view further illustrating the wire management clip of Figure 1A, according to various embodiments;

[0030] Figure ID is a second side view further illustrating the wire management clip of Figure 1A, according to various embodiments;

[0031] Figure IE is a top view further illustrating the wire management clip of Figure 1A, according to various embodiments;

[0032] Figure IF is a bottom view further illustrating the wire management clip of Figure 1 A, according to various embodiments;

[0033] Figure 1G is a front view further illustrating the wire management clip of Figure 1A, according to various embodiments;

[0034] Figure 1H is a back view further illustrating the wire management clip of Figure 1A, according to various embodiments;

[0035] Figure II is an exploded perspective view further illustrating the wire management clip of Figure 1 A, according to various embodiments;

[0036] Figure 2A is a top view with a section line further illustrating the wire management clip of Figure 1A, according to various embodiments;

[0037] Figure 2B is a section view B-B further illustrating the wire management clip of Figure Al, according to various embodiments;

[0038] Figure 3A is a side view further illustrating the wire management clip of Figure 1A in an open position, according to various embodiments;

[0039] Figure 3B is a side view further illustrating the wire management clip of Figure 1A in a closed position, according to various embodiments;

[0040] Figure 4A is a side view further illustrating the wire management clip of Figure 1A in an open position and a section view of a frame wherein the wire management clip is positioned on the frame, according to various embodiments;

[0041] Figure 4B is a side view further illustrating the wire management clip of Figure 1A in a closed position and a section view of the frame wherein the wire management clip is secured to the frame, according to various embodiments;

[0042] Figure 5 is a side view further illustrating the wire management clip of Figure 1A in a closed position and a section view of the frame wherein the wire management clip is secured to the frame and a section view of wire in the wire management clip, according to various embodiments;

[0043] Figure 6A is a perspective side view illustrating another wire management clip with an adjustable flange and a post installation wire clip for post installation positioning of wire, according to various embodiments;

[0044] Figure 6B is a side view further illustrating the wire management clip of Figure 6A, according to various embodiments;

[0045] Figure 6C is a side view further illustrating the wire management clip of Figure 6A in a closed position and a section view of the frame wherein the wire management clip is secured to the frame and a section view of wire in the wire management clip and in the slot for post installation positioning of wire, according to various embodiments;

[0046] Figure 7 is a bottom view of two wire management clips of Figure 1 A or Figure 6A positioned on a frame and wire positioned in the frame and wire management clips, according to various embodiments;

[0047] Figure 8 is a side view further illustrating the wire management clip of Figure 6A in a closed position and a section view of the frame wherein the wire management clip is secured to the frame and a section view of an oval-shaped wire in the wire management clip, according to various embodiments;

[0048] Figure 9 is a bottom view of a frame and a wire management clip of Figure 1 A or Figure 6A positioned on a frame and a wire extending from a junction box and positioned in wire management clip, according to various embodiments;

[0049] Figure 10 is a side section view of the frame and a side view of the wire management clip of Figure 9 where wire is positioned in the wire management clip, according to various embodiments;

[0050] Figure 11 A is a side section view illustrating a wire management clip with an adjustable flange and a bolt tightening mechanism, according to various embodiments;

[0051] Figure 1 IB is a back view further illustrating the wire management clip of Figure 11 A, according to various embodiments;

[0052] Figure 11C is a front view further illustrating the wire management clip of Figure 11 A, according to various embodiments;

[0053] Figure 1 ID is a top perspective view further illustrating the wire management clip of Figure 11 A, according to various embodiments;

[0054] Figure 1 IE is a bottom perspective view further illustrating the wire management clip of Figure 11A, according to various embodiments;

[0055] Figure 12A is a side section view illustrating a wire management clip with a threaded bolt with a hand tightening top, according to various embodiments;

[0056] Figure 12B is a back view further illustrating the wire management clip of Figure 12A, according to various embodiments;

[0057] Figure 12C is a front view further illustrating the wire management clip of Figure 12A, according to various embodiments;

[0058] Figure 12D is a bottom perspective view further illustrating the wire management clip of Figure 12A, according to various embodiments;

[0059] Figure 13 A is a side section view illustrating a wire management clip with a threaded bolt with a hex head, according to various embodiments;

[0060] Figure 13B is a back view further illustrating the wire management clip of Figure 13A, according to various embodiments;

[0061] Figure 13C is a front view further illustrating the wire management clip of Figure 13A, according to various embodiments;

[0062] Figure 13D is a bottom perspective view further illustrating the wire management clip of Figure 13A, according to various embodiments;

[0063] Figure 14A is a side section view illustrating a wire management clip with an end frame screw tightening mechanism, according to various embodiments;

[0064] Figure 14B is a back view further illustrating the wire management clip of Figure 14A, according to various embodiments;

[0065] Figure 14C is a front view further illustrating the wire management clip of Figure 14A, according to various embodiments;

[0066] Figure 14D is a top perspective view further illustrating the wire management clip of Figure 14A, according to various embodiments;

[0067] Figure 14E is a bottom perspective view further illustrating the wire management clip of Figure 14A, according to various embodiments;

[0068] Figure 15 A is a side section view illustrating a wire management clip with an end screw tightening mechanism and end wire clip, according to various embodiments;

[0069] Figure 15B is a front view further illustrating the wire management clip of Figure 15A, according to various embodiments;

[0070] Figure 15C is a bottom perspective view further illustrating the wire management clip of Figure 15 A, according to various embodiments;

[0071] Figure 15D is a top perspective view further illustrating the wire management clip of Figure 15 A, according to various embodiments;

[0072] Figure 16A is a side section view illustrating a wire management clip with a snap-on mechanism, according to various embodiments;

[0073] Figure 16B is a back view further illustrating the wire management clip of Figure 16A, according to various embodiments;

[0074] Figure 16C is a front view further illustrating the wire management clip of Figure 16A, according to various embodiments;

[0075] Figure 16D is a top perspective view further illustrating the wire management clip of Figure 16A, according to various embodiments;

[0076] Figure 16E is a bottom perspective view further illustrating the wire management clip of Figure 16A, according to various embodiments;

[0077] Figure 17A is a side section view illustrating a wire management clip with a locking flange clip with teeth, according to various embodiments;

[0078] Figure 17B is a back view further illustrating the wire management clip of Figure 17A, according to various embodiments;

[0079] Figure 17C is a top perspective view further illustrating the wire management clip of Figure 17A, according to various embodiments;

[0080] Figure 17D is a bottom perspective view further illustrating the wire management clip of Figure 17A, according to various embodiments;

[0081] Figure 18A is a cross-sectional view of a wire management clip, according to various embodiments;

[0082] Figure 18B is a side perspective view of a wire management clip, according to various embodiments;

[0083] Figure 18C is a top cross-sectional view of a wire management clip, according to various embodiments;

[0084] Figures 19A - 19F are progressive views of a wire management clip being installed on exemplary solar panel frames, according to various embodiments;

[0085] Figure 20A is a side view of a wire management clip, according to various embodiments;

[0086] Figure 20B is a top perspective view of a wire management clip, according to various embodiments;

[0087] Figure 20C is a bottom perspective view of a wire management clip, according to various embodiments;

[0088] Figure 20D is an exploded perspective view of a wire management clip, according to various embodiments;

[0089] Figure 20E is a side view of a wire management clip, according to various embodiments;

[0090] Figure 20F is a cross-section view of a wire management clip, according to various embodiments;

[0091] Figure 20G is a detail view of a portion of a wire management clip, according to various embodiments;

[0092] Figures 20H - 20M are progressive views of a wire management clip being installed on exemplary solar panel frames, according to various embodiments;

[0093] Figure 21 is a perspective view of a first wire management clip with an accessory, according to various embodiments; and

[0094] Figure 22 is a perspective view of a second wire management clip with an accessory, according to various embodiments.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0095] Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment,” “in an embodiment,” and similar language throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same embodiment, but mean “one or more but not all embodiments” unless expressly specified otherwise. The terms “including,” “comprising,” “having,” and variations thereof mean “including but not limited to” unless expressly specified otherwise. An enumerated listing of items does not imply that any or all of the items are mutually exclusive and / or mutuallyinclusive, unless expressly specified otherwise. The terms “a,” “an,” and “the” also refer to “one or more” unless expressly specified otherwise.

[0096] Furthermore, the described features, structures, or characteristics of the invention may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. In the following description, numerous specific details are provided, such as examples of programming, software modules, user selections, network transactions, database queries, database structures, hardware modules, hardware circuits, hardware chips, etc., to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the invention. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize, however, that the invention may be practiced without one or more of the specific details, or with other methods, components, materials, and so forth. In other instances, well-known structures, materials, or operations are not shown or described in detail to avoid obscuring aspects of the invention.

[0097] The schematic flow chart diagrams included herein are generally set forth as logical flow chart diagrams. As such, the depicted order and labeled steps are indicative of one embodiment of the presented method. Other steps and methods may be conceived that are equivalent in function, logic, or effect to one or more steps, or portions thereof, of the illustrated method. Additionally, the format and symbols employed are provided to explain the logical steps of the method and are understood not to limit the scope of the method. Although various arrow types and line types may be employed in the flow chart diagrams, they are understood not to limit the scope of the corresponding method. Indeed, some arrows or other connectors may be used to indicate only the logical flow of the method. For instance, an arrow may indicate a waiting or monitoring period of unspecified duration between enumerated steps of the depicted method. Additionally, the order in which a particular method occurs may or may not strictly adhere to the order of the corresponding steps shown.

[0098] As used herein, a list with a conjunction of “and / or” includes any single item in the list or a combination of items in the list. For example, a list of A, B and / or C includes only A, only B, only C, a combination of A and B, a combination of B and C, a combination of A and C or a combination of A, B and C. As used herein, a list using the terminology “one or more of’ includes any single item in the list or a combination of items in the list. For example, one or more of A, B and C includes only A, only B, only C, a combination of A and B, a combination of B and C, a combination of A and C or a combination of A, B and C. As used herein, a list using the terminology “one of’ includes one and only one of any single item in the list. For example, “one of A, B and C” includes only A, only B or only C and excludes combinations of A, B and C.

[0099] Figure 1A is a perspective side view illustrating a wire management clip 100 with an adjustable flange, according to various embodiments. Figure IB is a bottom perspective view, Figure 1C is a first side view, Figure ID is a second side view, Figure IE is a top view, Figure IF is a bottom view, Figure 1G is a front view, Figure 1H is a back view, and Figure II is an exploded perspective view further illustrating the wire management clip 100 of Figure 1A, according to various embodiments. Figure 2A is a top view with a section line and Figure 2B is a section view B-B further illustrating the wire management clip 100 of Figure 1 A, according to various embodiments. Figure 3A is a side view further illustrating the wire management clip of Figure 1 A in an open position, according to various embodiments. Figure 3B is a side view further illustrating the wire management clip 100 of Figure 1 A in a closed position, and Figure 4A is a side view further illustrating the wire management clip 100 of Figure 1A in an open position and a section view of a frame 150 where the wire management clip 100 is positioned on the frame 150, according to various embodiments. Figure 4B is a side view further illustrating the wire management clip 100 of Figure 1A in a closed position and a section view of the frame 150 where the wire management clip 100 is secured to the frame 150, according to various embodiments. Figure 5 is a side view further illustrating the wire management clip 100 of Figure 1A in a closed position and a section view of the frame 150 where the wire management clip 100 is secured to the frame 150 and a section view of wire in the wire management clip 100, according to various embodiments.

[0100] In general, several of the wire clips described herein include an outer clip and an inner clip. The outer clip and the inner clip are operable to clamp onto a frame 150 where the frame 150 includes a top 156, a side structure 152, and a flange 154. The side structure 152 is coupled to the top 156 where the side structure 152 and flange 154 form an L-shape terminating in the flange 154. A cross section of a typical frame 150 is depicted in Figure 4A, as well as other figures (e.g., 4B, 5, 6C, 7-10, HA, HD, HE, 12A, 12C, 12D, 13A-E, 14A-E, 15A-D, 16A-D, 17A-D). The outer clip is configured to engage the side structure 152 and the inner clip is configured to engage the flange 154. In various embodiments, the flange 154 has different lengths, and may be short as depicted in Figures 13A-D, 14A-D, 17A-D.

[0101] The wire management clips described herein include a wire clip coupled to the inner clip or the outer clip and the wire clip includes a wire slot where the wire clip is sized to retain one or more wires in the wire slot. The wire management clips described herein also include a locking mechanism configured to retain the inner clip and the outer clip onto the frame 150. In variousembodiments, the wire management clips described herein are varied to accommodate different types and sizes of frames 150. In some embodiments, the wire management clips described herein are able to accommodate a range of sizes and shapes of frames 150.

[0102] The wire management clip 100 of Figures 1A-1I, 2A, 2B, 3A, 3B, 4A, 4B, and 5 includes a wire clip 106 coupled to an inner clip 104 and an outer clip includes a vertical arm 118 extending along an exterior side of the side structure 152. The wire management clip 100 is configured to attach to a frame 150 or other structure that has a side structure 152 extending vertically and a flange 154 extending horizontally from the side structure 152 where the wire management clip 100 is configured to clip onto the bottom flange 154 and to be secured against the side structure 152. The frame 150 includes a top 156, which in some cases, supports solar cells of a solar panel. In other embodiments, the frame 150 is an angle iron, structural channel, or other device for supporting equipment where wire management is useful.

[0103] The wire management clip 100 includes an outer clip 102 that inserts into an inner clip 104 where the inner clip 104 includes a wire clip 106 on top of the inner clip 104. In the embodiments, the inner clip 104 includes a flange slot 108 configured to conform to the flange 154. The wire clip 106 includes a wire slot 122 configured to secure wire 130 to a frame 150 when wire 130 is in the wire clip 106 and the wire management clip 100 is secured to a frame 150. In some embodiments, the wire slot 122 is oriented to face the side structure 152. In some embodiments, an end of the wire clip 106 is sized to extend towards the side structure 152 to contact the side structure 152 when the flange 154 is positioned in the flange slot 108.

[0104] Figure 5 depicts two cross sections of wire 130 in the wire clip 106 and depicts the wire management clip 100 secured to a frame 150 (seen in cross section). In the embodiments of Figure 5, the wire clip 106 is depicted touching a vertical side structure 152 of the frame 150 so that wire 130 in the wire clip 106 is surrounded on three sides by the wire clip 106 and an opening of the wire clip 106 is secured against the side structure 152 of the frame 150, thus enclosing the wire 130. In other embodiments, the end of the wire clip 106 is sized to at least retain wire 130 in the wire clip 106 where a diameter of the wire 130 is less than a gap between the end of the wire clip 106 and the side structure 152.

[0105] In some embodiments, the wire clip 106 includes a wire holder 124 extending into the wire slot 122. In some embodiments, the wire holder 124 that extends into the wire slot 122. The wire holder 124, in some embodiments, is configured to press against wire 130 in the wire slot 122 ofthe wire clip 106 to further retain the wire 130 in the wire clip 106 and / or to hold the wire 130 in position. In some embodiments, the wire holder 124 includes a flexible material that creates a spring force towards wire 130 in the wire holder 124 of the wire clip 106. In other embodiments, the wire holder 124 includes one or more notches sized to accommodate a wire 130 in each notch of the one or more notches of the wire holder 124, as depicted in Figure 5. In some embodiments, the wire holder 124 is formed with the wire clip 106 and / or the inner clip 104 and are made from a flexible material, such as a plastic, a nylon, a polymer, or the like.

[0106] The inner clip 104 includes a flange slot 108 configured to conform to the flange 154. The inner clip 104 is inserted over the horizontal flange 154 of the frame 150. The flange slot 108 for the flange 154, in some embodiments, includes a spring force that allows the flange slot 108 to expand for thicker flanges. A depth of the flange slot 108 in conjunction with the spring force, in some embodiments, is sized for flanges 154 of thicknesses in the range of 1 .2 millimeters (“mm”) to 2 mm. The flange slot 108, in some embodiments, is sized for horizontal flanges 154 in the range of 1.5 mm to 25 mm. In other embodiments, the wire management clip 100 is sized for other flange dimensions.

[0107] The outer clip 102 inserts into a flange slot 108 in the inner clip 104 and is moved into the inner clip 104 until a vertical arm 118 of the outer clip 102 is secured against a side structure of the frame 150. In some embodiments, the side structure 152 has a thickness in a range of 9.5 mm to 33.5 mm and the inner clip 104 and outer clip 102 are sized to accommodate thickness of the side structure 152 in the range of about 9 mm to about 35 mm. In some embodiments, the side structure 152 has avertical dimension in the range of 30-45 mm. In other embodiments, the inner clip 104 and outer clip 102 accommodate side structures 152 of different thicknesses and heights.

[0108] In some embodiments, the outer clip 102 includes bottom teeth 110 on a bottom side, as depicted in Figure IF, and the inner clip 104 includes opposing teeth 112 on a locking arm 114 extending from the inner clip 104, as depicted in Figure II. The bottom teeth 110 of the outer clip 102 and the opposing teeth 112 of the inner clip 104 are positioned to engage each other and are shaped to allow the outer clip 102 to insert into the outer clip 102 but to oppose a force separating the inner clip 104 from the outer clip 102 once the teeth are engaged. The locking arm 114 includes a spring force that maintains the opposing teeth 112 engaged with the bottom teeth 110. The locking arm 114, in some embodiments, includes an end tab 116 movable in a direction away from the bottom teeth 110 of the outer clip 102 to disengage the opposing teeth 112 of the outer clip 102 from the bottom teeth 110 of the opposing teeth 112 to allow a user to pull the outer clip 102 from the inner clip 104.

[0109] In some embodiments, the bottom teeth 110 and opposing teeth 112 include a triangular cross section with a width so that moving from one tooth to another tooth moves the inner clip 104 a discrete amount with respect to the outer clip 102. In some embodiments, the vertical arm 118 of the outer clip 102 includes a retention arm 120 with a spring force and angled towards the inner clip 104 and shaped to engage an outer side of the side structure 152 of a frame 150 when being secured to the frame 150. While inserting the outer clip 102 into the inner clip 104, the opposing teeth 112 eventually engage the bottom teeth 110 and the outer clip 102 moves a discreet amount as the bottom teeth 110 move past the opposing teeth 112.

[0110] Eventually, the retention tab engages the outer side of the side structure 152. However, the width of the vertical side structure 152 of the frame 150 often does not match up with a discrete distance the inner clip 104 moves with respect to the outer clip 102 so without the retention arm 120, there would be some play in the wire management clip 100 with respect to the frame 150. The retention arm 120 is designed to deflect enough to keep the wire mounting clip pressed against the frame 150 when the inner clip 104 cannot be inserted further into the outer clip 102. A user, in some instances, presses the outer clip 102 into the inner clip 104 as much as possible and the retention arm 120 is deflected an amount to holds the bottom teeth 110 against the opposing teeth 112. In some embodiments, a range of movement of the retention arm 120 is equal to or greater than a horizontal distance between two adjacent bottom teeth 110 to accommodate the discrete movement of the bottom teeth 110 with respect to the opposing teeth 112 while maintaining the wire management clip 100 secured to the frame 150.

[0111] Figures 6A-6C includes another wire management clip 600 that includes a post installation wire clip 602 for post installation positioning of wire 130. The post installation wire clip 602 is depicted on the right side of the inner clip 104 of Figure 6B. In other embodiments, the post installation wire clip 602 is located elsewhere, such as on the outer clip 102, the bottom of the inner clip 104, etc. The post installation wire clip 602 is a U-shaped slot with a clip extending upward that may be flexed away from the inner clip 104 as wire is inserted into the U-shaped post installation wire clip 602. In some embodiments, the post installation wire clip 602 includes a wire holder 124, as depicted in the wire management clip 100 of Figure 5 and other figures. Figure 6C includes two wires 130 in the wire clip 106 that are secured because an end of the top side of the wire clip 106 is against the frame 150. Figure 6C also depicts a cross section of wire 130 in the post installation wire clip 602,where the wire 130 may be added to the post installation wire clip 602 after the wire management clip 600 is secured to the frame 150.

[0112] Figure 7 is a bottom view of two wire management clips 100, 600 of Figure 1A or Figure 6A positioned on a frame 150 and wire 130 positioned in the frame 150 and wire management clips 100, 600, according to various embodiments. Two wire management clips 100 or 600 are depicted on a side of a frame 150 (bottom edge in Figure 7). Wire 130 is depicted extending horizontally along the side of the frame 150 with the two wire management clips 100, 600 and, in some embodiments, would extend past the frame 150. Figure 7 is intended to illustrate the wire 130 extending through wire clips 106 of the wire management clips 100, 600. In some embodiments, the frame 150 includes a junction box 158, for example, when the frame 150 is for a solar panel. The junction box 158 may include wire 130, as depicted in Figure 9.

[0113] Figure 8 is a side view further illustrating the wire management clip 600 of Figure 6A in a closed position and a section view of the frame 150 wherein the wire management clip 600 is secured to the frame 150 and a section view of an oval-shaped wire 130 in the wire management clip 600, according to various embodiments. In some embodiments, the oval-shaped wire 130 includes multiple conductors, which may be positioned side-by-side. The wire 130 may be oval-shaped, an elongated circle-shaped, ellipse shaped, or the like. In some embodiments, the wire 130 is a trunk cable and includes one or more hot conductors, a neutral conductor, and / or a grounding conductor. In other embodiments, the trunk cable includes wires 130 with other polarity combinations. In some embodiments, the wire management clips 600 described herein accommodate wire 130 that is oval-shaped, elongated circle-shaped, ellipse-shaped, etc. in addition to wires 130 that are circular.

[0114] Figure 9 is a bottom view of a frame 150 and a wire management clip 100, 600 of Figure 1 A or Figure 6A positioned on a frame 150 and a wire 130 extending from a junction box 158 and positioned in wire management clip 100, 600, according to various embodiments. Figure 9 depicts wire 130 extending from a junction box 158 and looping up through a wire management clip 100, 600 and then extending to a plug 158. In some embodiments, the plug 158 is connected to a trunk cable, wire harness, or other cable that includes receptacles for plugs 158 matching the plug 158 at the end of the wire 130.

[0115] Figure 10 is a side section view of the frame 150 and a side view of the wire management clip 600 of Figure 9 where wire 130 is positioned in the wire management clip, according to various embodiments. Figure 10 depicts more detail of the wire management clip 600 of Figure 9and wire 130 and plug 158. Figure 10 depicts the wire 130 secured to the frame 150 using the wire management clip 600.

[0116] Figure 11A is a side section view illustrating a wire management clip 1100 with an adjustable flange and a bolt tightening mechanism, according to various embodiments. Figure 1 IB is a back view, Figure 11C is a front view, Figure HD is a top perspective view, and Figure HE is a bottom perspective view further illustrating the wire management clip 1100 of Figure 11A, according to various embodiments. The wire management clip 1100 includes an outer clip 1102 and an inner clip 1104 with a locking mechanism in the form of a threaded bolt 1140 extending through the outer clip 1102 and inner clip 1104 where tightening the threaded bolt 1140 moves the outer clip 1102 toward the inner clip 1104. In some embodiments, the inner clip 1104 includes threads compatible with threads on the threaded bolt 1140 such that rotating the threaded bolt 1140 in a first direction (usually clockwise) moves the outer clip 1102 towards the inner clip 1104 to tighten the wire management clip 1100 onto the frame 150 and moving the threaded bolt 1140 in a second direction opposite the first direction moves the outer clip 1102 away from the inner clip 1104.

[0117] In some embodiments, the threaded bolt 1140 includes a head 1142 that is hex shaped to fit a wrench and / or a driver slot 1143 to fit a screwdriver. The driver slot 1143 may be straight for a straight-bladed screwdriver, a Philips slot for a Philips screwdriver, a Torx® slot for a Torx® driver, an Allen internal hexagonal socket for an Allen wrench, or the like. In some embodiments, the head 1142 has a collar wider than the threads on the threaded bolt 1140 to press against the outer clip 1102 where the inner clip 1104 includes threads, or vice versa. In other embodiments, the head 1142 includes a shape suitable for a user to twist the head 1142 by hand, such as a wing-nut shape, a round perimeter with knurls, slots, etc. for grip, or the like. One of skill in the art will recognize other head styles for a user to rotate the threaded bolt 1140.

[0118] The outer clip 1102, in various embodiments, includes a vertical arm 1118 configured to engage the side structure 152. In some embodiments, the vertical arm 1118 is substantially similar to the vertical arm 118 of the wire management clip 100 described above. In some embodiments, the vertical arm 1118 includes a retention arm 120 with a spring force and angled towards the inner clip 1104 and shaped to engage an outer side of the side structure 152 of the frame 150 when being secured to the frame 150.

[0119] The wire management clip 1100 of Figures 11A-E includes flange slot 108 configured to conform to the flange 154. In some embodiments, the flange slot 108 is configured to have a springforce to allow expansion for various widths of flanges 154 and / or to provide some clamping force against the flange 154. In other embodiments, the wire management clip 1100 of Figures 11A-E includes a wire clip 1106 with a wire slot 122 configured to secure wire 130 to a frame 150 when wire 130 is in the wire clip 1106 and the wire management clip 1100 is secured to a frame 150. In some embodiments, the wire slot 122 is oriented to face the side structure 152. In some embodiments, an end of the wire clip 1106 is configured similar to the wire clip 106 of the wire management clip 100 described above, and may be sized to extend towards the side structure 152 and to contact or nearly contact the side structure 152 when the flange 154 is positioned in the flange slot 108. In some embodiments, the wire clip 106 may include a wire holder 124 similar to the wire clip 106 of the wire management clip 100 described above.

[0120] While the wire clip 1106 is depicted as formed with the inner clip 1104, in other embodiments, the wire clip 1106 is constructed separately and is attached to, bonded to, etc. the inner clip 1104, for example, when being constructed of a different material than the inner clip 1104. In some examples, all or a portion of the inner clip 1104 may be constructed of a rigid material to accommodate threads strong enough to retain the threaded bolt 1140 while the wire clip 1106 is more flexible to allow for insertion of the wires 130. In other embodiments, the inner clip 1104 includes a sleeve (not shown) with threads to accommodate the threaded bolt 1140 where the sleeve may be metal or other rigid substance. In the embodiments, the sleeve is connected via an adhesive, molded into the inner clip 1104, or the like. In some embodiments, the wire management clip 1100 includes another post installation wire clip (not shown) similar to the post installation wire clip 602 of the wire management clip 600 of Figures 6A-C.

[0121] Figure 12A is a side section view illustrating a wire management clip 1200 with a threaded bolt 1240 with a hand tightening top, according to various embodiments. Figure 12B is a back view, Figure 12C is a front view, and Figure 12D is a bottom perspective view further illustrating the wire management clip 1200 of Figure 12A, according to various embodiments. The wire management clip 1200 includes a mounting clip 1260 operable to clamp onto a frame 150. The frame 150 includes a top 156, a side structure 152, and a flange 154, which are substantially similar to those described above. The side structure 152 is coupled to the top 156. The side structure 152 and flange 154 form an L-shape terminating in the flange 154, as described above. The mounting clip 1260 includes an upper lip 1262 and a lower lip 1264 that form a flange slot 108 configured to conform tothe flange 154. The upper lip 1262 and the lower lip 1264, in some embodiments, expand to fit various widths of flanges 154 and / or provide a spring force on the flange 154.

[0122] The wire management clip 1200 includes a threaded bolt 1240 extending through the lower lip 1264. Tightening the threaded bolt 1240 exerts a force on the flange 154 to secure the mounting clip 1260 to the flange 154. The wire management clip 1200 includes a wire clip 1206 coupled the upper lip 1262. The wire clip 1206 includes a wire slot 122 and the wire clip 1206 is sized to retain one or more wires 130 in the wire slot 122. In some embodiments, the wire slot 122 oriented toward the side structure 152. In some embodiments, end of the wire clip 1206 is sized to extend towards the side structure 152 to contact the side structure 152 when the flange 154 is positioned in the flange slot 108, as depicted in Figure 12A. In other embodiments, the end of the wire clip 1206 is sized to have a small gap between the end of the wire clip 1206 and the side structure 152 where the gap is smaller than a diameter of wire 130 to be placed in the wire clip 1206.

[0123] In some embodiments, the wire management clip 1200 of Figures 12A-D includes a wire clip 1206 with a wire slot 122 configured to secure wire 130 to a frame 150 when wire 130 is in the wire clip 1206 and the wire management clip 1200 is secured to a frame 150. In some embodiments, the wire slot 122 is oriented to face the side structure 152. In some embodiments, an end of the wire clip 1106 is configured similar to the wire clip 106 of the wire management clip 100 described above, and may be sized to extend towards the side structure 152, to contact the side structure 152 when the flange 154 is positioned in the flange slot 108, may include a wire holder 124, etc. similar to the wire clip 106 of the wire management clip 100 described above.

[0124] In some embodiments, the threaded bolt 1240 includes a head 1242 that is configured to be tightened by hand by a user. In some embodiments, the edges of the head 1242 include a pattern, grooves, etc. to allow the user to grip the head 1242 and to tighten the threaded bolt 1240. The wire management clip 1200, in some embodiments, includes some features similar to the wire management clips 100, 1100 described above, such as inclusion of a wire slot 122 with a wire holder 124, a post installation wire clip, or the like. In some embodiments, the lower lip 1264 is constructed of a material suitable for the threaded bolt 1240 to be tightened to the flange 154. In other embodiments, the lower lip 1264 includes a sleeve with threads as described above in relation to the wire management clip 1100 of Figures 11A-E.

[0125] Figure 13A is a side section view illustrating a wire management clip 1300 with a threaded bolt 1340 with a hex head 1242, according to various embodiments. Figure 13B is a backview, Figure 13C is a front view, and Figure 13D is a bottom perspective view further illustrating the wire management clip 1300 of Figure 13A, according to various embodiments. The wire management clip 1300 of Figures 13A-D, in various embodiments, is substantially similar to the wire management clip 1200 of Figures 12A-D except with a threaded bolt 1340 with a hex head 1342 rather than a head 1242 configured for a user to operate by hand. The wire management clip 1300 includes a wire clip 1306, a mounting clip 1360, an upper lip 1362, a lower lip 1364, a threaded bolt 1340, a flange slot 108, a wire slot 122, and a wire holder 124, which are substantially similar to those of the wire management clip 1200 of Figures 12A-D. In some embodiments, the wire management clip 1300 includes a post installation wire clip (not shown) as depicted in the wire management clip 600 of Figures 6A-C.

[0126] Figure 14A is a side section view illustrating a wire management clip 1400 with an end frame screw tightening mechanism, according to various embodiments. Figure 14B is a back view, Figure 14C is a front view, Figure 14D is a top perspective view, and Figure 14E is a bottom perspective view further illustrating the wire management clip 1400 of Figure 14A, according to various embodiments. The wire management clip 1400 includes a mounting clip with an outer clip 1402 and an inner clip 1404. The outer clip 1402 and inner clip 1404 are operable to clamp onto a frame 150. The frame 150, in some embodiments, includes a top 156, a side structure 152, and a flange 154 where the side structure 152 is coupled to the top 156 and the side structure 152 and flange 154 form an L-shape terminating in the flange 154. In other embodiments, the frame 150 does not include a flange 154. In other embodiments, the flange 154 is short. In other embodiments, the bottom of the side structure 152 is considered to be the flange 154 or part of the flange 154. The outer clip 1402 is configured to engage the side structure 152 and the inner clip 1404 is configured to engage the flange 154 or inside portion of the side structure 152 where there is no flange 154. The inner clip 1404 also engages the bottom of the side structure 152 and / or bottom of the flange 154.

[0127] In the embodiments depicted in Figures 14A-E, the outer clip 1402 engages the side structure 152 at the junction between the top 156 and the side structure 152. In the embodiments depicted in Figures 14A-E, the inner clip 1404 engages a portion of the side structure 152 and includes a horizontal section 1470 that engages a bottom of the side structure 152 and the flange 154 and also includes a vertical extension 1472 that extends past an end of the flange 154 towards the top 156 of the frame 150.

[0128] The wire management clip 1400 includes a locking mechanism configured to retain the inner clip 1404 and the outer clip 1402 onto the frame 150. In the embodiments depicted in Figures 14A-E, the locking mechanism is a threaded bolt 1440. When positioned as depicted in Figure 14A, rotating the threaded bolt 1440 in a first direction tightens the outer clip 1402 and the inner clip 1404 onto the frame 150 by moving the outer clip 1402 against the top 156 and the inner clip 1404 against the bottom of the side structure 152 and the flange 154. In some embodiments, the threaded bolt 1440 includes a head 1442 wider than threads on the threaded bolt 1440 that presses onto edges of an opening in the outer clip 1402 and the inner clip 1404 includes an opening with threads. Tightening the threaded bolt 1440 presses the head 1442 against the outer clip 1402 as the threaded bolt 1440 moves into the threaded opening of the inner clip 1404. In other embodiments, the outer clip 1402 includes threads and the head 1442 on a bottom of the inner clip 1404.

[0129] In various embodiments, the head 1442 includes a hex-shaped exterior for a wrench, a driver slot 1443 for a screwdriver, an inner hex-shaped opening for an Allen wrench, a head 1242 as depicted in Figures 12A-D for a user to hand-tighten the threaded bolt 1440, or the like. In some embodiments, the outer clip 1402 and the inner clip 1404 both include threads and the threaded bolt 1440 has threads above and below a center portion and oriented so twisting the threaded bolt 1440 from a center section moves both the outer clip 1402 and the inner clip 1404 closer to each other. The center section may be hexagonal shaped, may have a hole, etc. for use of a tool to twist the threaded bolt 1440.

[0130] The wire management clip 1400 includes a wire clip 1406 coupled to inner clip 1404. In the embodiments depicted in Figures 14A-E, the wire clip 1406 is positioned on the vertical extension 1472. The vertical extension 1472 and the wire clip 1406 form a wire slot 122. The wire clip 1406 is sized to retain one or more wires 130 in the wire slot 122. In some embodiments, the wire clip 1406 is oriented with an opening of the wire slot 122 facing the top 156 of the frame 150, which may help to retain the wires 130 in the wire slot 122. In other embodiments, the wire clip 1406 is positioned in another direction. In some embodiments, the wire clip 1406 is sized to extend towards the top 156 of the frame 150 a distance such that the wire clip 1406 touches the top 156 of the frame 150. In other embodiments, the wire clip 1406 is sized to extend towards the top 156 of the frame 150 a distance such that a gap between the wire clip 1406 and the top 156 of the frame 150 is less than a diameter of wire 130 expected to be in the wire slot 122. In some embodiments, the wire clip 1406 includes a wire holder 124 in the wire slot 122, which is substantially similar to the wire holders 124described above. In other embodiments, the wire management clip 1400 includes a post installation wire clip (not shown) on another part of the wire management clip 1400.

[0131] Figure 15A is a side section view illustrating a wire management clip 1500 with an end screw tightening mechanism and end wire clip 1506, according to various embodiments. Figure 15B is a front view, Figure 15C is a bottom perspective view, and Figure 15D is a top perspective view further illustrating the wire management clip 1500 of Figure 15 A, according to various embodiments. The wire management clip 1500 includes a mounting clip with an outer clip 1502 and an inner clip 1504. The outer clip 1502 and inner clip 1504 are operable to clamp onto a frame 150. The frame 150 includes a top 156, and a side structure 152, and may or may not include a flange 154. The side structure 152 is coupled to the top 156. Where the frame 150 includes a flange 154, in some embodiments, the side structure 152 and flange 154 form an L-shape terminating in the flange 154. The outer clip 1502 is configured to engage the side structure 152 and the inner clip 1504 is configured to engage the bottom of the side structure 152 and / or the flange 154.

[0132] In the embodiments depicted in Figures 15A-D, the outer clip 1502 engages the side structure 152 at the junction between the top 156 and the side structure 152. In the embodiments depicted in Figures 15A-D, the inner clip 1504 engages a portion of the side structure 152 at a bottom edge of the side structure 152. In some embodiments, the inner clip 1504 includes ridge 1580 and the outer clip 1502 includes a corresponding slot to maintain alignment of the outer clip 1502 with respect to the inner clip 1504. In some embodiments, the ridge 1580 flairs out in a wedge shape, in a T-shape, or similar shape to maintain the outer clip 1502 and the inner clip 1504 aligned.

[0133] The wire management clip 1500 includes a locking mechanism configured to retain the inner clip 1504 and the outer clip 1502 onto the frame 150. In the embodiments depicted in Figures 15A-D, the locking mechanism is a threaded screw 1540. When positioned as depicted in Figure 15 A, rotating the threaded screw 1540 in a first direction tightens the outer clip 1502 and the inner clip 1504 onto the frame 150 by moving the outer clip 1502 against the top 156 and the inner clip 1504 against the bottom of the side structure 152.

[0134] In some embodiments, the threaded screw 1540 includes a head 1542 wider than threads on the threaded screw 1540 that presses onto edges of an opening in the outer clip 1502 and the inner clip 1504 includes an opening with threads. Tightening the threaded screw 1540 presses the head 1542 against the outer clip 1502 as the threaded screw 1540 moves into the threaded opening of the inner clip 1504. In other embodiments, the outer clip 1502 includes threads and the head 1542 ona bottom of the inner clip 1504. In some embodiments, the inner clip 1504 includes an opening and is made of a material where the threaded screw 1540 is self-tapping and creates threads as the threaded screw 1540 is screwed into the opening in the inner clip 1504. In such embodiments, the threaded screw 1540 may include a pointed tip and wider threads than a typical threaded bolt. In other embodiments, the inner clip 1504 includes threads. In various embodiments, the head 1542 includes a hex-shaped exterior for a wrench, a driver slot for a screwdriver, an inner hex-shaped opening for an Allen wrench, a head 1242 as depicted in Figures 12A-D for a user to hand-tighten the threaded screw 1540, or the like.

[0135] The wire management clip 1500 includes a wire clip 1506 coupled to outer clip 1502. In the embodiments depicted in Figures 15A-D, the wire clip 1506 is positioned on a vertical section of the outer clip 1502. The vertical section of the outer clip 1502 and the wire clip 1506 form a wire slot 122. The wire clip 1506 is sized to retain one or more wires 130 in the wire slot 122. In some embodiments, the wire clip 1506 is oriented with an opening of the wire slot 122 facing in a direction towards the top 156 of the frame 150 so that the wire slot 122 is facing up when the top 156 of the frame 150 is facing up. In other embodiments, the wire clip 1506 is positioned in another direction. In some embodiments, the wire clip 1506 includes a wire holder 124 in the wire slot 122, which is substantially similar to the wire holders 124 described above. In some embodiments, the inner clip 1504 extends over top of the inner clip 1504 and the inner clip 1504 includes the ridge 1580 and the wire clip 1506 is mounted on a vertical section of the inner clip 1504. In other embodiments, the inner clip 1504 includes a wire clip 1506 on the bottom or other surface of the inner clip 1504.

[0136] Figure 16A is a side section view illustrating a wire management clip 1600 with a snap- on mechanism, according to various embodiments. Figure 16B is a back view, Figure 16C is a front view, Figure 16D is a top perspective view, and Figure 16E is a bottom perspective view further illustrating the wire management clip 1600 of Figure 16A, according to various embodiments. The wire management clip 1600 includes a mounting clip operable to clamp onto a frame 150. The frame 150 includes a top 156, a side structure 152, and a flange 154. The side structure 152 is coupled to the top 156 and the side structure 152 and flange 154 form an L-shape terminating in the flange 154.

[0137] The mounting clip, in some embodiments, includes an outer clip 1670 that includes a horizontal section 1671 configured to engage a bottom of the side structure 152 opposite the top 156 and a vertical arm 1676 extending along an exterior side of the side structure 152. The mounting clip also includes an inner clip 1672 that includes a hook section 1678 shaped to engage a terminating edgeof the flange 154. The inner clip 1672 is coupled to the outer clip 1670 via a connecting section 1673. The connecting section 1673 is configured to provide a spring force between the outer clip 1670 and the inner clip 1672 to allow the hook section 1678 to flex away from the outer clip 1670 during installation and to maintain the vertical arm 1676 against the side structure 152 and the hook section 1678 against the flange 154. In some embodiments, the connecting section 1673 includes an opening 1674 that allows a thin portion of the inner clip 1672 to flex and to provide the spring force.

[0138] In some embodiments, the hook section 1678 includes a sloped ramp 1679 extending from a top of the hook section 1678 opposite the connecting section 1673 to a horizonal portion positioned on the flange 154. The sloped ramp 1679 is sloped toward the outer clip 1670. In some embodiments, the sloped ramp 1679 is configured so that a user seeking to install the wire management clip 1600 presses the wire management clip 1600 upward and the sloped ramp 1679 engages the flange 154 and the slope of the sloped ramp 1679 encourages the inner clip 1672 to flex away from the side structure 152 until the horizontal portion of the hooked section 1678 slides over the flange 154 and snaps into an installed position, as depicted in Figure 16A.

[0139] The wire management clip 1600 includes a wire clip 1606 coupled to the inner clip 1672. In some embodiments, the wire clip 1606 includes a wire slot 122 oriented toward the top 156 of the frame 150. In other embodiments, the wire clip 1606 is oriented in a different direction. The wire clip 1606 is sized to retain one or more wires 130 in the wire slot 122. In some embodiments, the wire clip 1606 includes a wire holder 124 similar to the wire holders 124 described above. In some embodiments, the wire clip 1606 is sized to extend towards the top 156 of the frame 150 a distance such that the wire clip 1606 touches the top 156 of the frame 150. In other embodiments, the wire clip 1606 is sized to extend towards the top 156 of the frame 150 a distance such that a gap between the wire clip 1606 and the top 156 of the frame 150 is less than a diameter of wire 130 expected to be in the wire slot 122.

[0140] In other embodiments, the wire management clip 1600 includes another wire clip (not shown) mounted to the bottom of the wire management clip 1600, to the vertical arm 1676 of the outer clip 1670, or the like. The other wire clip, in some embodiments, is positioned and oriented to be accessible after installation.

[0141] While the outer clip 1670, the inner clip 1672, the connecting section 1673, and the wire clip 1606 are described separately, in some embodiments the wire management clip 1600 is of unitary construction and the outer clip 1670, the inner clip 1672, the connecting section 1673, the wireclip 1606, and other parts of the wire management clip 1600 are described separately for convenience. In other embodiments, some or all of the outer clip 1670, the inner clip 1672, the connecting section 1673, the wire clip 1606, and other parts of the wire management clip 1600 are of different materials and / or are separate.

[0142] Figure 17A is a side section view illustrating a wire management clip 1700 with a locking flange clip with teeth, according to various embodiments. Figure 17B is a back view, Figure 17C is a top perspective view, and Figure 17D is a bottom perspective view further illustrating the wire management clip 1700 of Figure 17A, according to various embodiments. The wire management clip 1700 includes a mounting clip with an outer clip 1702 and an inner clip 1704. The outer clip 1702 and inner clip 1704 are operable to clamp onto a frame 150. The frame 150 includes a top 156, a side structure 152, and a flange 154. The side structure 152 is coupled to the top 156 and the side structure 152 and flange 154 form an L-shape terminating in the flange 154. The outer clip 1702 and the inner clip 1704 are configured to engage the frame 150. In some embodiments, the outer clip 1702 and the inner clip 1704 are configured to engage the flange 154 of the frame 150, as depicted in Figures 17A-D.

[0143] The wire management clip 1700 includes a wire clip 1706 coupled to the inner clip 1704 or the outer clip 1702 and the wire clip 1706 includes a wire slot 122 and the wire clip 1706 is sized to retain one or more wires 130 in the wire slot 122. In the embodiments depicted in Figures 17A-D, the wire clip 1706 is coupled to the inner clip 1704. In other embodiments, the wire clip 1706 is coupled to the outer clip 1702. In some embodiments, the wire slot 122 includes a wire holder 124, which is substantially similar to the wire holder 124 described above.

[0144] The wire management clip 1700 includes a locking mechanism configured to retain the inner clip 1704 and the outer clip 1702 onto the frame 150. In some embodiments, the locking mechanism includes an extension arm 1790 with teeth 1792 coupled to one of the outer clip 1702 and the inner clip 1704 and a receiving slot 1793 on the outer clip 1702 or the inner clip 1704 without the extension arm 1790. The teeth 1792 of the extension arm 1790 engage an edge of the receiving slot 1793 in response to the extension arm 1790 extending through the receiving slot 1793. In the embodiments depicted in Figures 17A-D, the extension arm 1790 is coupled to the inner clip 1704 and the receiving slot 1793 is in the outer clip 1702. In some embodiments, the edge of the receiving slot 1793 includes one or more opposing teeth (not shown) configured to engage one or more teeth 1792 of the extension arm 1790.

[0145] In other embodiments, an end of the extension arm 1790 is flexible and exerts a spring force to maintain one or more of the teeth 1792 of the extension arm 1790 engaged with the edge of the receiving slot 1793. In other embodiments, the receiving slot 1793 is configured with a length configured to allow movement of the extension arm 1790 by a user to release the one or more teeth 1792 of the extension arm 1790 from the edge of the receiving slot 1793. In the embodiments, a user may engage the end of the extension arm 1790 extending from the outer clip 1702 and may pulls the extension arm 1790 away from the edge of the receiving slot 1793 where the teeth 1792 of the extension arm 1790 are engaged to release the outer clip 1702 to be pulled away from the flange 154.

[0146] In some embodiments, the outer clip 1702 is coupled to the inner clip 1704 via a hinge 1798. The hinge 1798, in some embodiments, is configured to allow the outer clip 1702 to rotate with respect to the inner clip 1704. In some embodiments, the extension arm 1790 is curved to accommodate rotating the outer clip 1702 with respect to the inner clip 1704. In other embodiments, the outer clip 1702 is coupled with the inner clip 1704 at an end without a hinge 1798, such as at the location where the hinge 1798 is depicted. In such embodiments, the outer clip 1702 and the inner clip 1704 are flexible to allow the outer clip 1702 to be moved far enough away from the inner clip 1704 to allow the outer clip 1702 and the inner clip 1704 to engage the frame 150 and / or the flange 154 of the frame 150.

[0147] While the embodiments depicted in Figures 17A-D depict the wire management clip 1700 engaging the flange 154 of the frame 150, the embodiments described herein are not so limited and the wire management clip 1700 may engage other parts of the frame 150, such as the side structure 152 when the flange 154 is short or non-existent. In some embodiments, the outer clip 1702 and / or the inner clip 1704 include a gripping mechanism configured to engage sides of the flange 154 or frame 150 in response to the locking mechanism being in a locked position with the inner clip 1704 and the outer clip 1702 engaging the sides of the flange 154 or frame 150. In some embodiments, the gripping mechanism includes teeth, such as the teeth 1794 on the outer clip 1702 and / or the teeth on the inner clip 1704. In some embodiments, the flange 154 or frame 150 is aluminum or another malleable substance so the teeth 1794, 1796 embed or imprint into the flange 154 or frame 150 an amount to resist the wire management clip 1700 from being pulled from the frame 150. In other embodiments, the gripping mechanism includes a non-slip material. In some embodiments, the nonslip material includes raised ridges, points, or the like that engage the flange 154 or frame 150. In other embodiments, the gripping mechanism includes a high resistance material, such as rubber orother tacky substance with a coefficient of friction that is high enough to help maintain the outer clip 1702 and the inner clip 1704 engaged with the frame 150 and / or flange 154 of the frame 150.

[0148] In some embodiments and with reference to Figures 18A - 18C and Figures 19A-19F, wire management clip 1800 may be a monolithic construction. It may be made of an elastically deformable plastic material. Wire management clip 1800 may comprise a body 1802, having a first end including an arm 1804. Body 1802 may also have a second end defining a wire loop 1806. Body 1802 may also define a flange 1816 along a length of body 1802 adjacent wire loop 1806. Body 1802 may also define a channel 1814 between arm 1804 and flange 1816. Channel 1814 may be sized to engage a solar panel frame 150. Flange 1816 may be biased away from body 1802 to facilitate installation on a solar panel. Body 1802 may comprise a stop 1818 defined in channel 1814. Stop 1818 may be configured to create tension between arm 1804, flange 1816 and a solar panel frame 150 in response to wire management clip 1800 being installed on a solar panel.

[0149] Wire loop 1806 may include a divider 1808 that bisects the channel 1810 defined by wire loop 1806. Divider 1808 may protrude from an interior wall of wire loop 1806. Divider 1808 may protrude from the interior wall in a cantilevered configuration. In this regard, divider 1808 may elastically deform or flex to receive one or more wires 130. Divider 1808 may also define one or more peaks 1811 and / or valleys, such as valley 1807 and valley 1809. Peaks 1811 and valleys 1807 and 1809 may be configured to receive and or otherwise allow a user to organize wires 130. Moreover, peaks 1811 and valleys 1807 and 1809 may be configured to retain wires 130 of various sizes in wire loop 1806.

[0150] Arm 1804 may comprise one or more teeth or serrations 1812. Serrations 1812 may be configured to create friction in response to being installed on a solar panel framel50. Arm 1804 may be biased toward wire loop 1806 and / or the second end of body 1802.

[0151] In some embodiments, and as shown in Figures 19A through 19F, wire management clip 1800 is configured to mate with frame 150. Channel 1814 may be configured to receive a portion of solar panel frame 150. Flange 1816 may be configured to engage flange 154 of solar panel frame 150. In this regard, the biased-up end of flange 1816 may facilitate installation or rocking of wire management clip 1800 around solar panel frame 150. Arm 1804 may elastically deform in response to wire management clip 1800 being installed on solar panel from 150. The elastic deformation of Arm 1804 creates a retaining force on solar panel frame 150. Serrations 1812 also engage solar panel frame 150 created interference between wire management clip 1800 and solar panel frame 150. Ifflange 154 is very short or not present in solar panel frame 150, Arm 1804 and flange 1816 may be sufficiently close to one another to engage and be secured the sidewalls of solar panel frame 150.

[0152] In various embodiments and with reference to Figures 20A - 20M, wire management clip 2000 may be an assembly. Wire management clip 2000 may comprise a body 2002. Body 2002 may have a first end comprising a wire loop 2006. Wire loop 2006 may be disposed at an angle relative to body 2002, such that wires 130 are retained by gravity in wire loop 2006. Wire loop 2006 may include a divider 2008 that bisects the channel 2010 defined by wire loop 2006. Divider 2008 may protrude from an interior wall of wire loop 2006. Divider 2008 may protrude from the interior wall in a cantilevered configuration. In this regard, divider 2008 may elastically deform or flex to receive one or more wires 130. Divider 2008 may also define one or more peaks 2011 and / or valleys, such as valley 2007 and valley 2009. Peaks 2011 and valleys 2007 and 2009 may be configured to receive and or otherwise allow a user to organize wires 130. Moreover, peaks 2011 and valleys 2007 and 2009 may be configured to retain wires 130 of various sizes in wire loop 2006. Wire loop 2006 may also comprise a wire hook 2018. Wire hook 2018 may be configured to receive a wire of a different size or a wire with a different purpose. Wire hook 2018 may include a biased arm to facilitate wire installation. Similarly, wire hook 2018 may be disposed at an angle from body 2002 that facilitates gravity keeping wire 130 in wire hook 2018.

[0153] In various embodiments, wire management clip 2000 may also comprise the housing. 2020. Housing 2020 may be configured to receive at least a portion 2030 of body 2002. Housing 2020 may define a channel 2024 that is configured to receive portion 2030 of body 2002. In this regard, channel 2024 and portion 2030 may have complimentary profiles. In one embodiment, channel 2024 may have a rectangular profile and portion 2030 may have a complimentary rectangular profile such that portion 2030 may be installed in channel 2024. Body 2002 may also have a retention tab 2028. Retention tab 2028 may create an interference fit between body 2002 and housing 2020. When assembled, portion 2030 of body 2002 may slide laterally in channel 2024 or housing 2020 but may be retained in housing 2020 by retention tab 2028, as shown in Figure 20F.

[0154] Body 2002 may be moveable in channel 2024. Body 2002 may be moveable in response to the actuation of a fattener 2026. Fastener 2026 may have actuation features as described herein including a hex pattern, a star pattern or any other suitable pattern known in the art. Fastener 2026 may be metal. Fastener 2026 may be a course thread fastener. Fastener 2026 may be configured to engage and / or thread into body 2002. More specifically, body 2002 may define a hole or channel 2003.Channel 2003 may have a diameter that is slightly smaller than the diameter for fastener 2026. In this regard, the threads of fastener 2026 may engage the surface defining channel 2003 as shown in Figures 20F and 20G. Housing 2020 may define a recess 2027 on an end. Recess 2027 may allow fastener 2026 be installed recess 2027, so that it is flush to or within the end of housing 2020.

[0155] In various embodiments, wire management clip 2000 is configured to engage a structure 150 with a first friction surface 2015 comprising teeth and / or serrations and a second friction surface 2028 comprising teeth and / or serrations. First friction surface 2015 may be disposed on a portion of wire loop 2006. Second friction surface 2028 may be disposed on a second end of body 2020 on arm 2022. Both of First friction surface 2015 and second friction surface 2028 may be configured to engage and create a friction or interference fit with panel frame 150. In some embodiments, body 2002 may define a slot to receive flange 154. If flange 154 is very short or not present in solar panel frame 150, first friction surface 2025 and second first surface 2028 may be moved to clamp to frame 150. In this regard, wire management clip 2000 may engage and be secured the sidewalls of solar panel frame 150.

[0156] In some embodiments and with reference to Figure 21, wire management clip 2000 may define a hole 2001 that is configured to receive an accessory 10, such as for example, the wire management ties described in U.S. Serial No 18 / 384,165, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for any purpose. In some embodiments and with reference to Figure 22, wire management clip 1800 may define a hole 1801 that is configured to receive an accessory 10, such as for example, the wire management ties described in U.S. Serial No 18 / 384,165, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for any purpose.

[0157] The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A wire management clip comprising: a mounting clip comprising an outer clip and an inner clip, the outer clip and inner clip operable to clamp onto a frame, the frame comprising a top, a side structure, and a flange, the side structure coupled to the top, the side structure and flange forming an L-shape terminating in the flange; a wire clip coupled to one of the inner clip and the outer clip, the wire clip comprising a wire slot, the wire clip sized to retain one or more wires in the wire slot; and a locking mechanism configured to retain the inner clip and the outer clip onto the frame.

2. The wire management clip of claim 1, wherein the outer clip is configured to engage the side structure and the inner clip is configured to engage the flange, and wherein; the wire clip is coupled to the inner clip; and the outer clip comprises a vertical arm extending along an exterior side of the side structure.

3. The wire management clip of claim 2, wherein the inner clip comprises a flange slot configured to conform to the flange.

4. The wire management clip of claim 3, wherein the wire slot is oriented to face the side structure.

5. The wire management clip of claim 4, wherein an end of the wire clip is sized to extend towards the side structure to contact the side structure when the flange is positioned in the flange slot.

6. The wire management clip of claim 3, wherein portions of the inner clip forming the flange slot comprise a spring force and a size of the flange slot to create a friction fit to the flange.

7. The wire management clip of claim 1, wherein the outer clip is configured to engage the side structure and the inner clip is configured to engage the flange and / or the side structure, and wherein the locking mechanism comprises a threaded bolt extending through the outer clip and inner clip, wherein tightening the threaded bolt moves the outer clip toward the inner clip.

8. The wire management clip of claim 7, wherein the threaded bolt comprises a hex-shaped head, a slot for a screwdriver, and / or a head comprising grooves around a perimeter configured for a user to grip the head at the grooves when tightening the threaded bolt.

9. The wire management clip of claim 1, wherein the outer clip and inner clip clamp onto the frame with a locking mechanism in response to the outer clip sliding into the inner clip to engage a side of the frame.

10. The wire management clip of claim 9, wherein the locking mechanism comprises bottom teeth on a bottom of the outer clip and opposing teeth on the inner clip.

11. The wire management clip of claim 10, wherein the opposing teeth are mounted on a locking arm on the inner clip, wherein the locking arm is flexible and exerts a spring force against the bottom teeth and wherein exerting a force on the locking arm disengages the opposing teeth from the bottom teeth.

12. The wire management clip of claim 10, wherein the outer clip comprises a vertical arm extending along an exterior side of the side structure and wherein the vertical arm of the outer clip comprises a retention arm configured to engage the side structure and wherein the retention arm is oriented towards the inner clip, the retention arm configured to provide a spring force opposing movement of the vertical arm towards the frame, wherein a range of the retention arm is greater than a distance between two adjacent bottom teeth of the bottom teeth of the outer clip.

13. The wire management clip of claim 1, wherein one of: the inner clip comprises a retainer channel and the outer clip comprises a retainer tooth positioned in the retainer channel; and the outer clip comprises a retainer channel and the inner clip comprises a retainer tooth positioned in the retainer channel, wherein one or both ends of the retainer channel are positioned to limit travel of the outer clip within the inner clip.

14. The wire management clip of claim 1, wherein the outer clip is configured to engage a comer of the frame between the top and the side structure and the inner clip is configured to engage the flange and / or the side structure.

15. The wire management clip of claim 14, wherein the inner clip comprises a vertical extension that extends past an end of the flange and / or bottom of the side structure towards the top of the frame.

16. The wire management clip of claim 15, wherein the wire clip is positioned on the vertical extension and is oriented with the wire slot facing the top of the frame.

17. The wire management clip of claim 16, wherein the wire clip is sized to extend towards the top of the frame a distance such that one of: the wire clip touches the top; and a gap between the top and an end of the wire clip is less than a diameter of wire in the wire clip.

18. The wire management clip of claim 14, wherein the wire clip is coupled to the outer clip and wherein the locking mechanism comprises a threaded bolt extending through the outer clip and inner clip, wherein tightening the threaded bolt moves the outer clip toward the inner clip.

19. The wire management clip of claim 1, wherein the wire clip further comprises a wire holder extending into the wire slot, wherein: the wire holder comprises a flexible material that creates a spring force towards wire in the wire holder; and / or the wire holder comprises one or more notches sized to accommodate a wire in each notch of the one or more notches.

20. A wire management clip comprising: a mounting clip operable to clamp onto a frame, the frame comprising a top, a side structure, and a flange, the side structure coupled to the top, the side structure and flange forming an L-shape terminating in the flange, the mounting clip comprising: an outer clip comprising a horizontal section configured to engage a bottom of the side structure opposite the top and a vertical arm extending along an exterior side of the side structure; and an inner clip comprising a hook section shaped to engage a terminating edge of the flange, the inner clip coupled to the outer clip via a connecting section, the connecting section configured to provide a spring force between the outer clip and the inner clip allow the hook section to flex away from the outer clip during installation and to maintain the vertical arm against the side structure and the hook section against the flange; and a wire clip coupled to the inner clip, the wire clip comprising a wire slot oriented toward the top of the frame, the wire clip sized to retain one or more wires in the wire slot.

21. The wire management clip of claim 20, wherein the hook section comprises a sloped ramp extending from a top of the hook section opposite the connecting section to a horizonal portion positioned on the flange, the sloped ramp sloped toward the outer clip.

22. A wire management clip comprising: a mounting clip operable to clamp onto a frame, the frame comprising a top, a side structure, and a flange, the side structure coupled to the top, the side structure and flange forming an L-shape terminating in the flange, the mounting clip comprising an upper lip and a lower lip forming a flange slot configured to conform to the flange; a threaded bolt extending through the lower lip, wherein tightening the threaded bolt exerts a force on the flange to secure the mounting clip to the flange; and a wire clip coupled the upper lip, wire clip comprising a wire slot, the wire clip sized to retain one or more wires in the wire slot, the wire slot oriented toward the side structure.

23. The wire management clip of claim 22, wherein an end of the wire clip is sized to extend towards the side structure to contact the side structure when the flange is positioned in the flange slot.

24. The wire management clip of claim 23, wherein the threaded bolt comprises a hex-shaped head, a slot for a screwdriver, and / or a head comprising grooves around a perimeter configured for a user to grip the head at the grooves when tightening the threaded bolt.

25. A wire management clip comprising: an outer clip and an inner clip operable to clamp onto a frame, the frame comprising a top, a side structure, and a flange, the side structure coupled to the top, the side structure and flange forming an L-shape terminating in the flange;a wire clip coupled to one of the inner clip and the outer clip, the wire clip comprising a wire slot, the wire clip sized to retain one or more wires in the wire slot; and a locking mechanism configured to retain the inner clip and the outer clip onto the frame, the locking mechanism comprising an extension arm comprising teeth coupled to one of the outer clip and the inner clip and a receiving slot on the outer clip or the inner clip without the extension arm, wherein the teeth of the extension arm engage an edge of the receiving slot in response to the extension arm extending through the receiving slot.

26. The wire management clip of claim 25, wherein the outer clip and / or the inner clip comprise a gripping mechanism configured to engage sides of the flange in response to the locking mechanism in a locked position with the inner clip and the outer clip engaging the sides of the flange.

27. The wire management clip of claim 26, wherein the locking mechanism comprises teeth and / or a non-slip material mounted on a surface of the outer clip and / or the inner clip facing the flange.

28. The wire management clip of claim 25, wherein an end of the extension arm is flexible and exerts a spring force to maintain one or more of the teeth of the extension arm engaged with the edge of the receiving slot.

29. The wire management clip of claim 28, wherein the receiving slot is configured with a length configured to allow movement of the extension arm by a user to release the one or more teeth of the extension arm from the edge of the receiving slot.

30. The wire management clip of claim 25, wherein the edge of the receiving slot comprises one or more opposing teeth configured to engage one or more teeth of the extension arm.

31. The wire management clip of claim 25, wherein the outer clip is coupled to the inner clip via a hinge.

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