Lineset covers and methods of manufacture and use thereof

Abstract

A lineset cover and a method of manufacture and use thereof. The lineset cover has a general E-shape cross-section defined by a base, a first wall extending from the base, a second wall extending from the base, and a third wall extending from the base such that the second wall extends between the first wall and the third wall. The second wall has an opening through which an elongated member (e.g., a cable tie) can be routed. As such, a lineset may be positioned over the elongated member and the base as the elongated member extends through the opening such that the lineset can run along the lineset cover adjacent to the second wall and the elongated member may be tightened (e.g., looped, closed) over the lineset to secure the lineset to the lineset cover.

Description

Docket: 15257403-0000276 Patent specificationTITLE LINESET COVERS AND METHODS OF MANUFACTURE AND USE THEREOFCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATION

[0001] This patent application claims a benefit of priority to US Provisional Patent Application 63 / 720,432 filed on 14 November 2024, which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes.BACKGROUND

[0002] As shown in FIGS. 1-3, a protective covering may be used to conceal, insulate, or safeguard a lineset, which is a set of tubes that transport a refrigerant between an outdoor condenser and an indoor evaporator coil in a Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system. As such, the protective covering may be known as a lineset cover 200.

[0003] Conventionally, the lineset cover 200 may have a channel 202 onto which a clip 100 may be mounted such that a cable tie (e.g., a zip tie) 300 may be routed through the clip 100. Then, the lineset may be positioned over the cable tie 300 such that the lineset may run along the lineset cover 200 adjacent to the channel 202 and the cable tie 300 may be tightened (e.g., looped, closed) over the lineset to secure the lineset to the lineset cover 200.

[0004] Although this approach may sometimes be useful, this approach may still suffer from various drawbacks. For example, when the clip 100 may not be subject to a supply shortage, since the clip 100 may slide along the channel 202, the clip 100 may complicate or lengthen installation of the lineset or the lineset cover 200, introduce complexity risks into maintenance of the lineset or the lineset cover 200, or cause complexity-induced failures of the lineset or the lineset cover 200. Likewise, the channel 202 may structurally deteriorate over time, thereby causing the clip 100 to undesirably unmount therefrom or slide therealong, which may negatively affect the lineset or its operation. Additionally, ultraviolet (UV) aging and cyclic thermal expansion can loosen clip-to-channel interfaces over time, enabling clip migration or release.Docket: 15257403-0000276 Patent specificationSUMMARY

[0005] This disclosure enables a lineset cover that minimizes or eliminates at least some drawbacks mentioned above. This lineset cover has a general E-shape crosssection defined by a base, a first wall extending from the base, a second wall extending from the base, and a third wall extending from the base such that the second wall extends between the first wall and the second wall. The second wall has an opening through which an elongated member (e.g., a cable tie) can be routed. As such, a lineset may be positioned over the elongated member as the elongated member extends through the opening such that the lineset can run along the lineset cover adjacent to the second wall and the elongated member may be tightened (e.g., looped, closed) over the lineset to secure the lineset to the lineset cover. This configuration minimizes or avoids any clips, which simplifies or expedites installation of the lineset, minimizes or avoids specialized tools or hardware, with minimal or no impact on the lineset or its operation. Unlike channel-and-clip systems, the elongated member is routed directly through the opening in the second wall, thereby minimizing or eliminating discrete clips.DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0006] FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a clip.

[0007] FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of the clip of FIG. 1 mounted onto a channel of a lineset cover.

[0008] FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of a cable tie routed through the clip of FIG. 1 mounted onto the channel the lineset cover of FIG. 2.

[0009] FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of an example of a lineset cover hosting a lineset according to this disclosure.

[0010] FIG. 4A shows a close-up perspective view of an example of a section of the lineset cover hosting the lineset of FIG. 4 according to this disclosure.

[0011] FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of an example of a lineset cover without a lineset according to this disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 5A shows a close-up perspective view of an example of a section of a lineset cover without a lineset according to this disclosure.Docket: 15257403-0000276 Patent specification

[0013] FIG. 5B shows a close-up perspective view of an example of a portion of a section of a lineset cover without a lineset according to this disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 6 shows a front or rear profile view of an example of a cross-section of a lineset cover according to this disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 6A shows longitudinal profile view of an example of a cross-section of a lineset cover according to this disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of an example of a lineset cover with a plurality of elongated members routed through the lineset cover according to this disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 8 shows a close-up perspective view of an example of a portion of a section of a lineset cover without a lineset according to this disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of an example of a kit according to this disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 10A shows a perspective view of an example of a lineset before positioning into a lineset cover through which an elongated member is routed according to this disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 10B shows a front or rear profile view of an example of lineset before positioning into a lineset cover through which an elongated member is routed according to this disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 10C shows a front or rear profile view of an example of a lineset positioned in a lineset cover through which an elongated member is routed and closed according to this disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 10D shows a perspective view of an example of a lineset positioned in a lineset cover through which an elongated member is routed and closed and a lid before being mounted onto the lineset cover to slide on the lineset cover such that the lineset is fully enclosed by the lineset cover and the lid according to this disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] As described above, this disclosure enables a lineset cover that minimizes or eliminates at least some drawbacks mentioned above. This lineset cover has a general E-shape cross-section defined by a base, a first wall extending from the base, a second wall extending from the base, and a third wall extending from the base such that theDocket: 15257403-0000276 Patent specificationsecond wall extends between the first wall and the second wall. The second wall has an opening through which an elongated member (e.g., a cable tie) can be routed. As such, a lineset may be positioned over the elongated member as the elongated member extends through the opening such that the lineset can run along the lineset cover adjacent to the second wall and the elongated member may be tightened (e.g., looped, closed) over the lineset to secure the lineset to the lineset cover. This configuration minimizes or avoids any clips, which simplifies or expedites installation of the lineset, minimizes or avoids specialized tools or hardware, with minimal or no impact on the lineset or its operation. Unlike channel-and-clip systems, the elongated member is routed directly through the opening in the second wall, thereby minimizing or eliminating discrete clips.

[0024] This disclosure is now described more fully with reference to various figures that are referenced above, in which some examples of this disclosure are shown. This disclosure may, however, be exemplified in many different forms and should not be construed as necessarily being limited to only examples disclosed herein. Rather, these examples are provided so that this disclosure is thorough and complete, and fully conveys various concepts of this disclosure to skilled persons.

[0025] Various terminology used herein can imply direct or indirect, full or partial, temporary or permanent, action or inaction. For example, when an element is referred to as being “on,” “connected,” or “coupled” to another element, then the element can be directly on, connected, or coupled to another element or intervening elements can be present, including indirect or direct variants. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directly connected” or “directly coupled” to another element, then there are no intervening elements present.

[0026] As used herein, various singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” are intended to include various plural forms (e.g., two, three, four, five) as well, unless specific context clearly indicates otherwise. For example, a term "a" or "an" shall mean "one or more," even though a phrase "one or more" is also used herein.

[0027] As used herein, various presence verbs “comprises,” “includes” or “comprising,” “including” when used in this specification, specify a presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements,Docket: 15257403-0000276 Patent specificationcomponents, or groups thereof. Furthermore, when this disclosure states that something is "based on" something else, then such statement refers to a basis which may be based on one or more other things as well. In other words, unless expressly indicated otherwise, as used herein "based on" inclusively means "based at least in part on" or "based at least partially on."

[0028] As used herein, a term “or” is intended to mean an inclusive “or” rather than an exclusive “or.” That is, unless specified otherwise, or clear from context, “X employs A or B” is intended to mean any of a set of natural inclusive permutations. That is, if X employs A; X employs B; or X employs both A and B, then “X employs A or B” is satisfied under any of these foregoing instances.

[0029] As used herein, relative terms such as “below,” “lower,” “above,” and “upper” can be used herein to describe one element's relationship to another element as illustrated in accompanying illustrative drawings. Such relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of illustrated technologies in addition to an orientation depicted in accompanying illustrative drawings. For example, if a device in accompanying illustrative drawings were turned over, then various elements described as being on a “lower” side of other elements would then be oriented on “upper” sides of other elements. Similarly, if a device in one of illustrative figures were turned over, then various elements described as “below” or “beneath” other elements would then be oriented “above” other elements. Therefore, various example terms “below” and “lower” can encompass both an orientation of above and below.

[0030] Although various terms first, second, third, and so forth can be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers, or sections should not necessarily be limited by such terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another element, component, region, layer or section. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer, or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer, or section without departing from various teachings of this disclosure.Docket: 15257403-0000276 Patent specification

[0031] As used herein, a term “about” or “substantially” refers to a + / — 10% variation from a nominal value / term. Such variation is always included in any given value / term provided herein, whether or not such variation is specifically referred thereto.

[0032] As used herein, a term “or others,” “combination”, “combinatory,” or “combinations thereof” refers to all permutations and combinations of listed items preceding that term. For example, “A, B, C, or combinations thereof” is intended to include at least one of: A, B, C, AB, AC, BC, or ABC, and if order is important in a particular context, also BA, CA, CB, CBA, BCA, ACB, BAC, or CAB. Continuing with this example, expressly included are combinations that contain repeats of one or more item or term, such as BB, AAA, AB, BBC, AAABCCCC, CBBAAA, CABABB, and so forth. Skilled persons understand that typically there is no limit on number of items or terms in any combination, unless otherwise apparent from the context.

[0033] As used herein, unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by a skilled person in an art to which this disclosure belongs. Various terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with a meaning in a context of a relevant art and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

[0001] Some examples, whether individually or collectively, can be components of a larger system, where other procedures can take precedence over or otherwise modify or adapt their application. Additionally, a number of steps can be required before, after, or concurrently with examples, as disclosed herein. Note that any or all methods or processes, at least as disclosed herein, can be at least partially performed via at least one entity in any manner.

[0034] Examples of this disclosure are described herein with reference to illustrations of idealized examples (and intermediate structures) of this disclosure. As such, variations from various illustrated shapes as a result, for example, of manufacturing techniques or tolerances, are to be expected. Thus, various examples of this disclosure should not be construed as necessarily limited to various particular shapes of regions illustrated herein, but are to include deviations in shapes that result, for example, from manufacturing.Docket: 15257403-0000276 Patent specification

[0035] Features described with respect to certain examples can be combined and subcombined in or with various other examples in any permutational or combinatory manner. Also, different aspects or elements of examples, as disclosed herein, can be combined and sub-combined in a similar manner as well. A skilled person will understand that typically there is no limit on a number of items or terms in any combination, unless otherwise contextually apparent.

[0036] Any or all elements, as disclosed herein, can be formed from a same, structurally continuous piece, such as being unitary, or be separately manufactured or connected, such as being an assembly or modules. Any or all elements, as disclosed herein, can be manufactured via any manufacturing processes, whether additive manufacturing, subtractive manufacturing, or other any other types of manufacturing. For example, some manufacturing processes include three dimensional (3D) printing, laser cutting, computer numerical control routing, milling, pressing, stamping, vacuum forming, hydroforming, injection molding, lithography, and so forth.

[0037] FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of an example of a lineset cover hosting a lineset according to this disclosure. FIG. 4A shows a close-up perspective view of an example of a section of the lineset cover hosting the lineset of FIG. 4 according to this disclosure. FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of an example of a lineset cover without a lineset according to this disclosure. FIG. 5A shows a close-up perspective view of an example of a section of a lineset cover without a lineset according to this disclosure. FIG.5B shows a close-up perspective view of an example of a portion of a section of a lineset cover without a lineset according to this disclosure. FIG. 6 show a front or rear profile view of an example of a cross-section of a lineset cover according to this disclosure. FIG.6A shows longitudinal profile view of an example of a cross-section of a lineset cover according to this disclosure. FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of an example of a lineset cover with a plurality of elongated members routed through the lineset cover according to this disclosure. FIG. 8 shows a close-up perspective view of an example of a portion of a section of a lineset cover without a lineset according to this disclosure.

[0038] As shown in FIGS. 4-8, there may be a lineset cover 400 (e.g., a lineset duct) including at least a portion having a generally E-shape cross-section (e.g., perpendicularly across length) defined by a base (e.g., a plate that may be rectilinear orDocket: 15257403-0000276 Patent specificationinward or outward arcuate) 406, a first wall (e.g., a plate that may be rectilinear or inward or outward arcuate) 408 extending from the base 406 (e.g., a top side thereof), a second wall (e.g., a plate that may be rectilinear or inward or outward arcuate) 410 extending from the base 406 (e.g., a top side thereof), and a third wall (e.g., a plate that may be rectilinear or inward or outward arcuate) 412 extending from the base 406 (e.g., a top side thereof). The lineset cover 400 may be configured for mounting vertically, horizontally, or at an incline on exterior or interior substrates.

[0039] As shown in FIG. 6, the second wall 410 may extend along and between the first wall 408 and the third wall 412. Although the second wall 410 is spaced apart equidistant relative to the first wall 408 and the third wall 412, this configuration is not required and the second wall 410 may be closer to the first wall 408 or the third wall 412, i.e. , not equidistant.

[0040] Each of the base 406, the first wall 408, the second wall 410, or the third wall 412 may be a monolith (e.g., one unitary piece) or an assembly (e.g., a plurality of attached or connected pieces). The base 406 may be a monolith (e.g., one unitary piece) or an assembly (e.g., a plurality of attached or connected pieces) with the first wall 408, the second wall 410, or the third wall 412. In injection-molded examples, any the walls 408, 410, 412 may include local thickening or ribs around the openings to maintain strap load capacity or draft angles of 0.5-2.0° facilitate ejection.

[0041] As shown in FIG. 6, the first wall 408, the second wall 410, and the third wall 412 differ from each other in height relative to or as measured from the base 406. As such, the first wall 408 is taller than the second wall 410 and the third wall 412. However, this configuration is optional and at least two of the first wall 408, the second wall 410, and the third wall 412 may not differ from each other in height relative to the base 406, i.e., same height.

[0042] Each of the first wall 408, the second wall 410, and the third wall 412 extends rectilinearly and parallel to each other. However, this configuration is not required. As such, at least one of first wall 408, the second wall 410, or the third wall 412 may extend non-rectilinearly (e.g., inwardly or outwardly arcuate, sinusoidal). Likewise, at least two of first wall 408, the second wall 410, or the third wall 412 may extend non-parallel to each other.Docket: 15257403-0000276 Patent specification

[0043] The first wall 408 has a first lip 414 caving inward over the base 406, thereby defining a first track. The third wall 412 has a second lip 416 caving inward over the base 406, thereby defining a second track. As such, the lineset cover 400 may receive a lid (e.g., a top cover) slid on the first track and the second track over the base 406, as further described below. For example, each of the first lip 414, the second lip 416 and the base define a rail-and-groove track. A lid having complementary grooves engages the lips with an interference fit, as described below.

[0044] As shown in FIG. 6, the second wall 410 may have a set of openings (e.g., polygonal, open-shaped, closed-shaped, symmetrical, asymmetrical, O-shape, 0-shape, D-shape, circular, star, teardrop, triangle, rectangle, square) 418 colinearly positioned and spaced apart from each other along the first wall 408 and the third wall 410. For example, this E-shape may be exemplified as the base 406 with three walls (408, 410, 412) extending from a same side of the base 406, the three walls (408, 410, 412) being laterally spaced from each other and generally parallel; the middle wall (410) includes at least one opening (e.g., an aperture) 418 sized to admit a flexible elongated member (e.g., a cable tie), as disclosed herein. For example, there may be two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, or more openings in the set of openings 418. For example, each of opening of the set of openings 418 may be structured to receive a standard cable tie, so that the cable tie routes directly through the second wall 410 and around the lineset — without any separate / sliding clip mounted in a channel. For example, there may be between three and fifteen openings 418, inclusively, although there can be less or more. For example, the set of openings 418 may be spaced apart from each other at a space with a length between three inches and twelve inches, inclusively. The set of openings 418 may extend on a rectilinear plane or in a rectilinear line. However, this configuration is not required and the set of openings 418 may extend on a non-rectilinear plane or in a non-rectilinear line (e.g., arcuate, sinusoidal). Regardless, at least one opening of the set of openings 418 can be fully defined by (i) the second wall alone 410 as shown in FIG. 6A, or (ii) the second wall 410 and the base 406. In some examples, the opening’s 418 width accommodates cable tie straps of 2.2-9.0 mm width and 0.8-2.0 mm thickness, with an edge distance from the base of 3-25 mm. In one example, some openings of the set of openings 418 are fully bounded by the second wall 410; in anotherDocket: 15257403-0000276 Patent specificationexample, a portion of some openings of the set of openings 418 may extend into the base 406. Although the set of openings 418 is present in a lower half of the second wall 410, this configuration is not required and the set of openings 418 may be present in an upper half of the second wall 410, whether some or all.

[0045] As shown in FIGS. 5, 7, 8, a set of elongated members (e.g., ropes, strings, cables, chains, cords, ties, cable ties, zip ties, bands, belts) 404 may be routed (e.g., one-by-one, sequentially) through the set of openings 418 above (e.g., perpendicularly or diagonally across length) or along (e.g., perpendicularly or diagonally across length) the base 406. Then, the lineset may be positioned over or above each elongated member of the set of elongated members 404, the second wall 410, or the base 406 such that the lineset may run along the base 406, the first wall 408, the second wall 410, or the third wall 412. Then, each elongated member of the set of elongated members 404 may be tightened (e.g., looped, closed) over or above the lineset, the base 406, the first wall 408, the second wall 410, or the third wall 412, to secure the lineset to the lineset cover 400. Then, the lineset cover 400 may be installed onto a building wall, whether open as is or after the lid is slid onto the lineset cover 400, as described below. For example, the set of elongated members 404 (e.g., cable ties) may be routed through the set of openings 418 and across the base 406. The lineset is laid on the base 406 so that each elongated member 404 passes under the lineset. Each elongated member 404 is then tightened to secure the lineset to the cover 400; elongated members may be spaced at intervals of 15-24 inches along the length, for example.

[0046] As shown in FIGS. 7-8, the elongated member 404 is exemplified as a cable tie (e.g. , a zip tie) which may be an elongated flexible strap having a first end and a second end, the strap defining a longitudinal axis and including a plurality of teeth disposed along at least a portion of the strap. The cable tie further includes a head integrally formed at the first end, the head defining an opening sized to receive the second end of the strap. A locking mechanism (e.g., a ratchet) is disposed within the head and configured to engage the teeth when the second end is inserted through the opening, thereby permitting movement of the strap in a tightening direction while resisting movement in an opposite direction. The cable tie may be formed from a polymeric material and is adapted to secure one or more lineset tubes by encircling the members and tightening the strap through theDocket: 15257403-0000276 Patent specificationhead. For example, suitable materials include UV-stabilized nylon (e.g., PA66) or stainless-steel strap ties for high-temperature / UV exposure. However, note that the elongated member 418 may be exemplified in other form factors, such as ropes, strings, cables, chains, cords, ties, bands, or belts adapted to self-engagement similar to the cable tie after routing through the opening 418.

[0047] As described above, the second wall 410 may be equal, longer, or shorter in height (as measured from the base 406) relative to the first wall 408 or the second wall 410. The second wall 410 may have an end portion 422 distal to the base 406 that bulges or thickens toward the first wall 410 or the second wall 408, or away from the base 406. For example, this bulging or thickening may minimize or avoid the wall 410 interfering (e.g., puncturing or abrading) with the lineset. For example, the end portion 422 may present a radius > 1 mm to avoid cutting or abrading insulation.

[0048] As shown in FIGS. 6-8, the first wall 408 and the third wall 412 may be equal or not equal (e.g., longer or shorter) in height (as measured from the base 406) relative to each other. Likewise, as shown in FIGS. 6-8, each of the first wall 408 and the third wall 412 may have an end portion (the first lip 414 or the second lip 416) distal and overlapping the base 406. For example, the end portion may have a C-shape, a U-shape, a V-shape, J-shape, or another suitable shape, whether open or closed, whether symmetrical or asymmetrical.

[0049] As shown in FIGS. 7-8, the base 406 may be monolithic (e.g., additively manufactured, subtractively manufactured, injection molded, 3D printed, cut, chiseled) with the first wall 408, the second wall 410, or the third wall 412. For example, the base 406, the first wall 408, the second wall 410, or the third wall 412 may include a polymer, a plastic, a metal, an alloy, a ceramic, a wood, a rubber, a shape-memory material, or another suitable material. Examples include PVC, ASA, ABS, or PC / ABS meeting UL94 HB or V-0 as required, or powder-coated aluminum / steel for metal variants. The base 406 may be assembled (e.g., fastened, interlocked, mated, magnetized, adhered) with the first wall 408, the second wall 410, or the third wall 412.

[0050] In some examples, as shown in FIGS. 4-8, there may be the lineset cover 400 with provisions (e.g., openings 418) for securely attaching the lineset to the lineset cover 400. The lineset cover 400 comprises a base cover and a top cover that are assembledDocket: 15257403-0000276 Patent specificationto protect the lineset from various ambient conditions. The lineset may be fastened to the base cover, as shown in FIGS. 4-9. The lineset fastener comprises of a molded-in base clip (the second wall 410) and a cable tie (the elongated member 404). For example, there may be a design of the lineset cover 400 that incorporates a portion of the lineset fastener reducing a total number of parts required to secure the lineset to the lineset cover 400. The lineset may refer to refrigerant tubes or insulation that are typically installed between outdoor condensing units and indoor air handlers. The portion of the lineset that is outdoors typically has a cover for protection from ambient conditions. What is shown in FIGS. 4-8 provides a solution to what is shown in FIGS. 1-3 regarding lineset covers, as explained above. As shown in FIGS. 1-3, existing lineset covers have clips that fasten to the lineset cover. The existing clips require assembly to the lineset cover. What is shown in FIGS. 4-8 eliminates the need for assembly as the clip is molded into the lineset cover 400, as explained above. The existing clip design includes a custom fastener to secure the linesets. The clip fastener may be prone to failure, so lineset can become loose. What is shown in FIGS. 4-8 allows various sizes of standard cable ties (or zip ties) to secure the lineset to the lineset cover 400 at the molded clip location.

[0051] FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of an example of a kit according to this disclosure. In particular, there is a kit 500 comprising a first package 502, a second package 504, and a plurality of lineset cover sections 506.

[0052] The first package 502 may be exemplified as a box, an envelope, or another similar form factor. For example, the box or the envelop may be constituted of paper, cardboard, or other similar material. The first package 502 may be filled with filler or bubble wrap. The first package 502 hosts the second package 504 and the plurality of lineset cover sections 506.

[0053] The second package 504 may be exemplified as a box, an envelope, or another similar form factor, whether of cube, cuboid, or another suitable form factor. For example, the box or the envelop may be constituted of paper, cardboard, or other similar material. The second package 504 may be filled with filler or bubble wrap. The second package 504 hosts the set of elongated members 404, which are exemplified as cable ties.

[0054] The plurality of lineset cover sections 506 may be sequentially assembled one-by-one and end-to-end to form an elongated lineset cover, similar to the lineset coverDocket: 15257403-0000276 Patent specification400. However, note that this configuration is optional and the lineset cover sections 506 may be absent and instead the first package 502 may host the lineset cover 400, whether assembled or monolithic, in its ready-to-use form.

[0055] The kit 500 may comprise a set of instructions that are printed on a piece of paper (or another suitable alternative material) and enclosed in the first package 504 or the second package 504. For example, the set of instructions may be a booklet, a manual, or another suitable form factor. Additionally or alternatively, the kit 500 may comprise a mobile application, a data file, a webpage, a video, an image, a diagram, or a schematic diagram explaining or instructing a user how to operate the lineset cover 400, as disclosed herein. Additionally or alternatively, the kit 500 may include a plurality of cable ties (in the second package 504) sized to the openings 418 (e.g., width 3-9 mm), and optionally at least one lid sized to engage the first and second lips 414 and 416.

[0056] FIG. 10A shows a perspective view of an example of a lineset before positioning into a lineset cover through which an elongated member is routed according to this disclosure. FIG. 10B shows a front or rear profile view of an example of lineset before positioning into a lineset cover through which an elongated member is routed according to this disclosure. FIG. 10C shows a front or rear profile view of an example of a lineset positioned in a lineset cover through which an elongated member is routed and closed according to this disclosure. FIG. 10D shows a perspective view of an example of a lineset positioned in a lineset cover through which an elongated member is routed and closed and a lid before being mounted onto the lineset cover to slide on the lineset cover such that the lineset is fully enclosed by the lineset cover and the lid according to this disclosure. In particular, a user (e.g., an installer, a contractor, an HVAC technician) may access the lineset cover 400 and route (e.g., insert) the set of elongated members 404 into the set of openings 418, where the elongated members 404 are open or not tightened at that point in time. Then, the user may position (e.g., deposit, lay) the lineset on the lineset cover 400 over the base 406 and the set of elongated members 404 such that the lineset contacts at least the set of elongated members 404 as the set of elongated members extends through the set of openings 418, and potentially the base 406. Then, the user closes or tightens the set of elongated members 418, one-by-one, as appropriate, such that each elongated member 418 surrounds the lineset, while theDocket: 15257403-0000276 Patent specificationlineset extends over the set of elongated members 418 and the base 406 such that the lineset is secured to the lineset cover 400. As such, no discrete clip separate from the base 406 or the second wall 410 is used to retain the elongated member 404. Unlike systems that utilize a channel and a discrete sliding clip to hold a tie wrap, the elongated member 404 in the lineset cover 400 is routed directly through the opening 418 in the second wall 410 extending from the base 406, thereby eliminating discrete clip hardware and sliding tolerances.

[0057] Note that the lineset may extend between the first wall 408 and the second wall 410 or the second wall 410 and the third wall 412. The end portion 422 is structured to outwardly bulge or outwardly thicken to minimize or avoid the wall 410 interfering (e.g., puncturing or abrading) with the lineset. Then, the user may access a lid 420 and slides the lid 420 over the lineset cover 400. Since the lid 420 has a general U-shape terminating at a first complementary engagement portion configured to engage with the first lip 414 and a second complementary engagement portion configured to engage with the second lip 416, the user slides the lid 420 onto the lineset cover 400 such that the first complementary engagement portion engages the first lip 414 and the second complementary engagement portion engages the second lip 416, thereby securely enclosing the lineset. When the lid 420 is slid on the lineset cover 400, the set of elongated members 404 remains underneath the lid 420, to minimize physical access to the set of elongated members (e.g., kids, animals, pests) while also providing a neat aesthetic appearance. The lid 420 may be a monolith or an assembly, similar to the lineset cover 400. The lid 420 may be constituted of materials similar to the lineset cover 400. The lid 420 and the lineset cover 400 may be colored similarly (e.g., both white).

[0058] Note that the lid 420 may be configured to attach or connect to the lineset cover 400 in ways other than sliding, whether additionally or alternatively. For example, the lid 420 may snap onto the lineset cover 400, or the lid 420 and the lineset cover 400 may be hingedly or pivotally attached (e.g., as a clamshell form factor or a book form factor).

[0059] Various corresponding structures, materials, acts, and equivalents of all means or step plus function elements in various claims below are intended to include any structure, material, or act for performing the function in combination with other claimed elements as specifically claimed. Various examples were chosen and described in orderDocket: 15257403-0000276 Patent specificationto best disclose various principles of this disclosure and various practical applications thereof, and to enable others of ordinary skill in a pertinent art to understand this disclosure for various examples with various modifications as are suited to a particular use contemplated.

[0060] This detailed description has been presented for various purposes of illustration and description, but is not intended to be fully exhaustive or limited to this disclosure in various forms disclosed. Many modifications and variations in techniques and structures will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in an art without departing from a scope and spirit of this disclosure as set forth in various claims that follow. Accordingly, such modifications and variations are contemplated as being a part of this disclosure. Scope of this disclosure is defined by various claims, which include known equivalents and unforeseeable equivalents at a time of filing of this disclosure.

Claims

Docket: 15257403-0000276 Patent specificationCLAIMS1. A method, comprising:accessing a lineset cover, an elongated member, and a lineset, wherein the lineset cover has a general E-shape cross-section defined by a base, a first wall extending from the base, a second wall extending from the base, and a third wall extending from the base such that the second wall extends between the first wall and the third wall, wherein the second wall has an opening;routing the elongated member through the opening;positioning the lineset over the elongated member extending through the opening; tightening the elongated member as the lineset extends over the elongated member and the base such that the lineset is secured to the lineset cover.

2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the second wall is monolithic with the base.

3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the second wall is shorter in height as measured from the base than the first wall or the third wall.

4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the third wall is shorter in height as measured from the base than the first wall.

5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the opening is oval or rectangular.

6. The method of claim 1, wherein the second wall has an end portion distal to the base that bulges or thickens, wherein the opening is disposed between the base and the end portion.

7. The method of claim 1, wherein the second wall has a plurality of openings including the opening, wherein the plurality of openings is colinearly positioned and spaced apart from each other along the first wall and the third wall.Docket: 15257403-0000276 Patent specification8. The method of claim 1 , wherein the elongated member is a cable tie.

9. The method of claim 1 , wherein the opening is fully defined by the second wall only.

10. The method of claim 1, wherein the opening is fully defined by the second wall and the base.

11. A method, comprising:enabling a user to:access a lineset cover, an elongated member, and a lineset, wherein the lineset cover has a general E-shape cross-section defined by a base, a first wall extending from the base, a second wall extending from the base, and a third wall extending from the base such that the second wall extends between the first wall and the second wall, wherein the second wall has an opening;route the elongated member through the opening;position the lineset over the elongated member extending through the opening;tighten the elongated member as the lineset extends over the elongated member and the base such that the lineset is secured to the lineset cover.

12. The method of claim 11 , wherein the second wall is monolithic with the base.

13. The method of claim 11, wherein the second wall is shorter in height as measured from the base than the first wall or the third wall.

14. The method of claim 11 , wherein the third wall is shorter in height as measured from the base than the first wall.

15. The method of claim 11 , wherein the opening is oval or rectangular.Docket: 15257403-0000276 Patent specification16. The method of claim 11 , wherein the second wall has an end portion distal to the base that bulges or thickens, wherein the opening is disposed between the base and the end portion.

17. The method of claim 11 , wherein the second wall has a plurality of openings including the opening, wherein the plurality of openings is colinearly positioned and spaced apart from each other along the first wall and the third wall.

18. The method of claim 11 , wherein the elongated member is a cable tie.

19. The method of claim 11 , wherein the opening is fully defined by the second wall only.

20. The method of claim 11 , wherein the opening is fully defined by the second wall and the base.

21. A system, comprising:a lineset cover, an elongated member, and a lineset, wherein the lineset cover has a general E-shape cross-section defined by a base, a first wall extending from the base, a second wall extending from the base, and a third wall extending from the base such that the second wall extends between the first wall and the third wall, wherein the second wall has an opening, wherein the elongated member is routed through the opening, wherein the lineset is positioned over the elongated member extending through the opening, wherein the elongated member is tightened as the lineset extends over the elongated member and the base such that the lineset is secured to the lineset cover.

22. The system of claim 21 , wherein the second wall is monolithic with the base.

23. The system of claim 21 , wherein the second wall is shorter in height as measured from the base than the first wall or the third wall.Docket: 15257403-0000276 Patent specification24. The system of claim 21, wherein the third wall is shorter in height as measured from the base than the first wall.

25. The system of claim 21 , wherein the opening is oval or rectangular.

26. The system of claim 21 , wherein the second wall has an end portion distal to the base that bulges or thickens, wherein the opening is disposed between the base and the end portion.

27. The system of claim 21 , wherein the second wall has a plurality of openings including the opening, wherein the plurality of openings is colinearly positioned and spaced apart from each other along the first wall and the third wall.

28. The system of claim 21 , wherein the elongated member is a cable tie.

29. The system of claim 21, wherein the opening is fully defined by the second wall only.

30. The system of claim 21 , wherein the opening is fully defined by the second wall and the base.

31. A kit, comprising:a lineset cover and an elongated member, wherein the lineset cover has a general E-shape cross-section defined by a base, a first wall extending from the base, a second wall extending from the base, and a third wall extending from the base such that the second wall extends between the first wall and the third wall, wherein the second wall has an opening; anda set of instructions instructing a user to cause the elongated member to be routed through the opening such that a lineset is positioned over the elongated member extending through the opening and the elongated member is tightened as the lineset extends over the elongated member and the base such that the lineset is secured to the lineset cover.Docket: 15257403-0000276 Patent specification32. A device, comprising:a lineset cover having a general E-shape cross-section defined by a base, a first wall extending from the base, a second wall extending from the base, and a third wall extending from the base such that the second wall extends between the first wall and the third wall, wherein the second wall has an opening through which an elongated member can be routed.

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