Latching clamp

Abstract

A clamp includes a body, a first strap portion, and a second strap portion. The first and second strap portions are coupled to a top surface of the body. The first strap portion includes a loop with an opening having a first width. The second strap portion includes a tab section and a narrowing section. The tab section has a second width that is equal to or greater than the first width. The narrowing section has a third width less than the second width and the first width. The narrowing section can freely move though the opening in a first direction. The tab section can flex between a neutral position and a compressed position when the narrowing section moves through the opening in a first direction. The compressed position has a width less than the first width and can move through the opening in a first direction.

Description

Attorney Docket No. 34704.2540 (750-485 WO01)Latching ClampCross-Reference to Related Application:

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U. S. Provisional Application No.63 / 761,245, filed February 21, 2025, the contents of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.Field:

[0002] The present disclosure relates to a clamp. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to device for a latching clamp for holding electrical conductors.Background:

[0003] Cable clamps are widely used to secure cables and wires in cable systems. Cable clamps are available in numerous different styles and sizes. While some are adjustable to accommodate different cable and wire sizes, the range of adjustment is often limited. In large cable systems, such as large-scale solar installations, the cables are required to be secured at regular intervals, and the size and number of cables can vary from one location to the next. Cable installers often struggle to properly manage all of the required cables and often require a plurality of different cable clamps.

[0004] Furthermore, existing cable clamps either cannot be reopened or require tools to do so. This makes adjusting or replacing a cable clamp difficult and time consuming. For example, cable ties generally must be cut to open. Most p-clips are closed with fasteners requiring tools to open.

[0005] There is a need for improved clamps for cables and other elongated elements. The present disclosure solves these and other problems.Summary:

[0006] Various examples of the present disclosure can overcome various of the aforementioned and other disadvantages associated with known clamps and offer new advantages as well.

[0007] An object of the present invention is to provide a clamp that accommodates a variety of sizes of elongated elements, such as cables, and that is easy to open, operate, and / or reuse. A further object is to provide a clamp that is adjustable and openable by hand without the need for tools.

[0008] According to one aspect of various examples of the present disclosure there is provided a clamp that can accommodate a variety of sizes of elongated elements, such as cables, and that is easy to open, operate, and / or reuse.

[0009] According to one aspect of various examples of the present disclosure there is provided an adjustable and reusable damp constructed from a flexible material.

[0010] According to one aspect of various examples of the present disclosure there is provided an adjustable clamp that can be selectively tightened or loosened using a ratcheting mechanism.

[0011] According to one aspect of various examples of the present disclosure there is provided a clamp with a strap having a latching portion with a substantially triangular shape.

[0012] According to one aspect of various examples of the present disclosure there is provided a clamp with a strap that includes a latching portion. The latching portion has a tab section, an inner section, and a narrowing section that extends between the tab section and the inner section. The inner section has a smaller width than the tab section. The width of the narrowing section decreases from the tab section to the inner section.

[0013] According to one aspect of various examples of the present disclosure there is provided a clamp includes a body, a first strap portion, and a second strap portion. The body has a top surface. The first strap portion is coupled to the top surface. The first strap portion includes a loop with an opening having a first width. The second strap portion is coupled to the top surface. The second strap portion includes a tab section and a narrowing section. The tab section has a second width that is equal to or greater than the first width. The narrowing section has a third width less than the second width. Thethird width is less than the first width and the narrowing section can freely move though the opening in a first direction. The tab section can flex between a neutral position and a compressed position when the narrowing section moves through the opening in a first direction. The compressed position has a width less than the first width and can move through the opening in a first direction.

[0014] According to one aspect of various examples of the present disclosure there is provided a clamp includes a body, a first strap portion, and a second strap portion. The body has a top surface and an opening that extends through the body. The first strap portion is coupled to the top surface. The first strap portion includes a loop with an opening having a first width. A second strap portion coupled to the top surface. The second strap portion includes a tab section having a second width that is greater than the first width and a narrowing section having a third width less than the first width. The tab section can flex between a neutral position and a compressed position when the narrowing section moves through the opening in a first direction. The compressed position having a width less than the first width can move through the opening in a first direction.

[0015] According to another aspect of various examples of the present disclosure, there is provided a clamp including a body, a first strap portion, and a second strap portion. The body has a top surface that extends between a first end and a second end. The first strap portion is coupled to the first end. The first strap portion includes a loop with an opening having a first dimension. The second strap portion is coupled between the first end and the second end. The second strap portion includes a tab section and a narrowing section. The tab section has a second dimension that is equal to or greater than the first dimension. The narrowing section extends from the tab section and has a substantially triangular shape. The narrowing section includes a third dimension less than the second dimension. The third dimension is less than the first dimension and the narrowing section can freely move though the opening in a first direction. The tab section can flex between a neutral position and a compressed position when the narrowing section moves through the opening in a first direction. The compressed position has a dimension less than the first dimension and can move through the opening in a first direction.

[0016] According to another aspect of various exampies of the present disclosure, there is provided a clamp including a body, a first strap portion, and a second strap portion. The body has a top surface that extends between a first end and a second end. The first strap portion is coupled between the first end and the second end. The first strap portion includes a loop with an opening having a first dimension. The second strap portion is coupled to the first end. The second strap portion includes a tab section and a narrowing section. The tab section has a second dimension that is equal to or greater than the first dimension. The narrowing section extends from the tab section and has a substantially triangular shape. The narrowing section includes a third dimension less than the second dimension. The third dimension is less than the first dimension and the narrowing section can freely move though the opening in a first direction. The tab section can flex between a neutral position and a compressed position when the narrowing section moves through the opening in a first direction. The compressed position has a dimension less than the first dimension and can move through the opening in a first direction.

[0017] According to another aspect of various examples of the present disclosure, there is provided a method of securing electrical wires. The method includes positioning a cable clamp in an open position. The cable clamp has a first strap portion and a second strap portion spaced apart from the first strap portion. The method also includes positioning the electrical wires in a spaced between the first strap portion and the second strap portion. Additionally, the method includes threading a narrowing section of the second strap portion into an opening of the first strap portion. The narrowing section has a maximum width less than a width of the opening. The method further includes moving a tab section of the second strap portion from a neutral position to a compressed position as the narrowing section passes through the opening. The second strap portion is releasably coupled to the first strap portion by recompressing the tab section.

[0018] The disclosure herein should become evident to a person of ordinary skill in the art given the following enabling description and drawings. The drawings are for illustration purposes only and are not drawn to scale unless otherwise indicated. The drawings are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure. The following enabling disclosure isdirected to one of ordinary skill in the art and presupposes that those aspects within the ability of the ordinarily skilled artisan are understood and appreciated.Brief Description of the Drawings:

[0019] Various aspects and advantageous features of the present disclosure will become more apparent to those of ordinary skill when described in the detailed description of preferred examples and reference to the accompany drawing wherein:

[0020] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a first example of a cable clamp shown in an open position.

[0021] FIG. 2 is a side view of the cable clamp of FIG. 1.

[0022] FIG. 3 is a top view of the cable clamp of FIG. 1.

[0023] FIG. 4 is a back view of the cable clamp of FIG. 1.

[0024] FIG. 5 is a front view of the cable clamp of FIG. 1.

[0025] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the first example of a cable clamp shown in a closed position.

[0026] FIG. 7 is a side view of the cable clamp of FIG. 6.

[0027] FIG. 8 is a top view of the cable clamp of FIG. 6.

[0028] FIG. 9 is a back view of the cable clamp of FIG. 6.

[0029] FIG. 10 is a front view of the cable clamp of FIG. 6.

[0030] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a second example of a cable clamp shown in an open position.

[0031] FIG. 12 is a top view of the cable clamp of FIG. 11.

[0032] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the second example of cable clamp shown in a closed position.

[0033] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a third example of a cable clamp shown in an open position.

[0034] FIG. 15 is a top view of the cable clamp of FIG. 14.

[0035] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the third example of cable clamp shown in a closed position.

[0036] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a fourth example of a cable clamp shown in an open position.

[0037] FIG. 18 is a top view of the cable clamp of FIG. 17.

[0038] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the fourth example of cable clamp shown in a closed position.

[0039] FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a fifth example of a cable clamp shown in an open position.

[0040] FIG. 21 is a side view of the cable clamp of FIG. 20.

[0041] FIG. 22 is a perspective view of the fifth example of cable clamp shown in a closed position.

[0042] FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a sixth example of a cable clamp shown in an open position.

[0043] FIG. 24 is a front view of the cable clamp of FIG. 23.

[0044] FIG. 25 is a perspective view of the sixth example of cable clamp shown in a closed position.

[0045] FIG. 26 is a perspective view of a seventh example of a cable clamp shown in an open position.

[0046] FIG. 27 is a top view of the cable clamp of FIG. 26.

[0047] FIG. 28 is a perspective view of the seventh example of cable clamp shown in a closed position.

[0048] FIG. 29 is a perspective view of an eighth example of a cable clamp shown in an open position.

[0049] FIG. 30 is a top view of the cable clamp of FIG. 26.

[0050] FIG. 31 is a perspective view of the eighth example of cable clamp shown in a closed position.

[0051] FIG. 32 is a perspective view of a ninth example of a cable clamp shown in an open position.

[0052] FIG. 33 is a top view of the cable clamp of FIG. 32.

[0053] FIG. 34 is a perspective view of the ninth example of cable clamp shown in a closed position.

[0054] FIG. 35 is a perspective view of a tenth example of a cable clamp shown in an open position.

[0055] FIG. 36 is a side view of the cable clamp of FIG. 35.

[0056] FIG. 37 is a perspective view of the tenth example of cable clamp shown in a closed position.Detailed Description:

[0057] A cable clamp or cable connector 100 may be used to secure one or more structures (e.g., electrical conductors). The cable clamp 100 may be movable between an open position (FIGS. 1 to 5) and a closed position (FIGS. 6 to 10). As described in more detail below, the cable clamp 100 may be reusable and may selectively move between the open and closed positions are desired by a technician.

[0058] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 10, the cable clamp 100 may include a body 105 with a base 110, a first strap portion 115, and a second strap portion 120. In the illustrated example, the body 105 may be integrally formed as a one-piece construction. For example, the body 105 may be constructed from a molded material (e.g., rubber, santoprene, polypropylene, ethylene propylene diene monomer, etc.). In other examples, the body 105 may be constructed from a different material and / or in a different manner. For example, the base 110 and at least one of the strap portions 115, 120 may be constructed (e.g., molded) separately and then coupled together.

[0059] In some forms, the base 110 may be a substantially planar section. For example, base 110 may be formed as a rectangular member, although the base 110 may be a different shape in other examples (e.g., circular, elliptical, triangular, etc.).

[0060] In certain forms, an aperture 125 may be formed through the base 110. The illustrated aperture 125 may have a substantially circular shape (e.g., a quarter inch stud hole), although other examples may include an aperture with a different shape and / or size. The illustrated aperture 125 may be formed proximate to an end of the base 110. Although in other examples, the aperture 125 may be formed at any location along the base 110.

[0061] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the first and second strap portions 115, 120 may be coupled to the base 110. In the illustrated example, the first strap portion 115 may be formed proximate to an end of the base 110. For example, the first strap portion 115 may be formed at an opposite end of the base 110 from the aperture 125. The illustrated second strap portion 120 may be disposed between the first strap portion 115 and theaperture 125. For example, the illustrated second strap portion 120 may be disposed closer to the aperture 125 than to the first strap portion 115, although the second strap portion 120 may be disposed along any length of the base 110.

[0062] In other examples, the first and second strap portions 115, 120 may be switched so that the second strap portion 120 is formed at an end of the base 110 and the first strap portion 115 is formed between the second strap portion 120 and the aperture 125. In still other examples, the aperture 125 may be formed between the first and second strap portions 115, 120.

[0063] In some forms, the first and second strap portions 115, 120 may be more flexible than the base 110. For example, the first and second strap portions 115, 120 may have a reduced thickness as compared to the base 110. The strap portions 115, 120 may therefore be able to bend or flex, while the base 110 may remain more stiff or rigid.

[0064] As shown in FIG. 1, the first strap portion 115 may include one or more loops 130. For example, the illustrated example includes two loops 130 spaced apart along the length of the first strap 115. Other examples may include three or more loops 130. Each loop 130 may be approximately 0.5 inches in length and the loops 130 may be spaced apart by a distance of about 0.5 inches to about 1 inch. In other examples, the length of at least one of the loops 130 and / or the spacing between the loops 130 may be different (i. e., larger or smaller). In still other examples, a different number of loops 130 (e.g., one, three, four, etc.) may be included on the first strap portion 115.

[0065] In some forms, the loops 130 may be constructed from the same material as the first strap portion 115. For example, the loops 130 are integrally formed with the first strap portion 115. In other examples, the loops 130 may be separately coupled to the first strap portion 115.

[0066] In some forms, each loop 130 may have a width that is approximately equal to the length of the first strap portion 115. Each loop 130 may also include a substantially hollow interior. As described in more detail below, a structure may be sized and shaped to pass through the loops 130.

[0067] In an alternate example, the first strap portion 115 may not include loops 130. At least one surface of the first strap portion 115 may include a connecting material, which could be any combination of hook and loop material, magnetic material, and / or adhesivematerial. A complementary material could be included on the second strap portion 120 to connect the first and second strap portions 115, 120 together. In still other examples, the first strap portion 115 may include a mechanical structure (e.g., a series of projections or holes) which can connect to complementary structures (e.g., the other of the series of projections and holes) on the second strap portion 120.

[0068] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the second strap portion 120 may be formed with a varying width. For example, the second strap portion 120 may include one or more latching segments 140. The illustrated example includes three latching segments 140, although any number may be used.

[0069] As shown in FIG. 4, each latching segment 140 may have a substantially triangular shape. For example, the latching segment 140 may include a tab section 145 and a narrowing section 150. Each latching segment 140 may be oriented in the same direction so that the narrowing section 150 is between tab sections 145.

[0070] In some forms, the tab section 145 may the widest section of the second strap section 120. In some forms, the width of the tab section 145 may be substantially similar to the width of the first strap section 115.

[0071] In certain forms, the tab section 145 may be formed as a substantially rectangular section. For example, the tab section 145 may extend at least partially along the length of the second strap portion 120.

[0072] With continued reference to FIG. 4, the width of the second strap portion 120 may decrease in a direction away from the tab section 145. The decreased width section may be the narrowing section 150, which may be formed by two obliquely oriented walls. This may form a substantially triangular shape.

[0073] In some forms, the two oblique walls may extend from along an edge of the tab section 145. For example, each wall may extend from a point that is within the outermost width of the second strap portion 120. In other words, the widest point of the narrowing section 150 may be narrower than the tab section 145. In other examples (not shown), the walls may extend from the outermost point of the tab section 145 so that the maximum width of the narrowing section 150 is equal to the width of the tab section 145.

[0074] In some forms, the walls of the narrowing section 150 may narrow to an inner section 155, which may further narrow along its length. In other examples, the innersection 155 may extend along parallel to the tab section 145. In other words, the oblique walls of the narrowing section 150 may not intersect and extend into the inner section 155. The inner section 155 may include substantially parallel edges and may be the narrowest section of the second strap portion 120 and may extend between the narrowing section 150 and the tab section 145 of a subsequent latching segment 140. A stepped region may exist between an end of the inner section 155 and the subsequent tab section 145.

[0075] In some forms, the free end of the second strap portion 120 (e.g., distal to the base 110) may not include an inner section 155. For example, the walls of the narrowing section 150 may intersect to form a triangular region.

[0076] In some examples, one or more of the latching segments 140 may have a different shape. For example, the latching segments 140 in FIGS. 20 to 22 may have a similar outer profile as the latching segments 140 of FIGS. 1 to 10, but may have a central opening 163. The illustrated central opening 163 may extend entirely through the second strap portion 120 and may have a substantially triangular shape (although other examples may have a different shape). For example, the central opening 163 may be positioned proximate to the tab section 145 and the narrowing section 150. In some forms, the central opening 163 may provide the latching segment 140 with increased flexibility for it to maneuver through the loops 130 (e.g., as described in more detail below and shown in FIG. 22). The outer profile of the latching segment 140 (e.g., proximate to the tab sections 145) may be substantially the same size (e.g., substantially the same outer width) to limit inadvertent movement through the loop 130 when moving from a closed position to an open position.

[0077] FIGS. 23 to 25 illustrate another alternative example of a latching segment 140, which may have a similar outer profile to the latching segments 140 of FIGS. 1 to 10. For example, the tab sections 145 of FIG. 24 may have substantially the same width as the tab sections 145 illustrated in FIG. 8. However, the tab sections 145 and narrowing sections 150 shown in FIGS. 23 to 25 may be formed as cantilevered wing sections that extend obliquely with respect to the inner section 155. In other words, material of the second strap portion 120 may not extend entirely between the tab portions 145.

[0078] In some forms, the inner section 155 of one latching segment 140 may extend entirely to the inner section 155 of the adjacent latching segment 140. For example, the inner section 155 may extend beyond the tab and narrowing sections 145, 150. The illustrated inner sections 155 may be inclined to have a reduced width as they extend away from the respective narrowing section 150.

[0079] In some forms, the cantilevered tab and narrowing sections 145, 150 may be flexible and can move about their fixed end toward the inner section 155. This configuration may help the latching segment move through a loop 130 when going from the open position (see e.g., FIG. 23) to a closed position (see e.g., FIG. 25), but may limit inadvertent movement of the latching segment 140 from the closed position to the open position.

[0080] As shown in FIGS. 6 to 10, the first and second strap portions 115, 120 of the cable clamp 100 may be manipulated from the open position, illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 5, to a closed position. In the closed position, the first and second strap portions 115, 120 may be coupled (e.g., removably coupled) together to form a closed perimeter.

[0081] As shown in FIG. 6, the first and second strap portions 115, 120 may be flexed or bent toward one another. An end of the second strap portion 120 may be inserted through a first loop 130 of the first strap portion 115. Specifically, the latching segment 140 proximate to the free end of the second strap portion 120 may be inserted through the loop 130 proximate to the free end of the first strap portion 115.

[0082] The narrowing section 150 of the second strap portion 120 may have a maximum width that is less than the width of the loop 130. Thus, the narrowing section 150 may be able to fit within the opening of the loop 130.

[0083] In some forms, the width of the tab section 145 may be greater than the width of the opening in the loop 130. Therefore, the tab section 145 may be unable to freely slide through the loop 130. A technician may pull the narrowing section 150, which may force the tab section 145 through the loop 130. For example, the material of the tab section 145 may flex to a narrower position to pass through the loop 130 and may then return to the original position after passing entirely through the loop 130. In this position, the tab section 145 may restrict the second strap portion 120 from moving back through the loop 130.

[0084] The technician may continue to adjust the cable clamp 100 by continuing to move the second strap portion 120 relative to the first strap portion 115. For example, the technician can feed the free end of the second strap portion 120 into the opening of the subsequent loop 130. The narrowing section 150 may similarly pass through the opening and the technician can apply a force (e.g., a pulling force) to move the tab section 145 through the subsequent loop 130.

[0085] In some forms, the distance between latching segments 140 may be approximately the same as the distance between the loops 130. Therefore, a subsequent latching member 140 may pass through the initial loop 130 as the first latching segment 140 passes through the subsequent loop 130.

[0086] In use, various elements (e.g., a bundle of electrical conductors) may be placed in the space between the first and second strap portions 115, 120. A technician may move the first and second strap portions 115, 120 so that they move around the elements, and create an opening or cavity through which the elements extend. The technician may then position one or more of the latching members 140 through one or more of the loops 130 to form an enclosed perimeter around the elements. The technician may move the latching members 140 through a different number of loops 130 to adjust the size of the opening. For example, the technician may have the latching members 140 pass through more loops 130 for a bundle of electrical connectors with a smaller width so that the first and second strap portions 115, 120 are tight around the bundle.

[0087] In some forms, the latching segments may move through the loops 130 in a ratcheting manner. For example, the shape of the narrowing section 150 may move through the opening in the loop 130 and the force provided by the technician may assist the tab section 145 to compress and fit through the loop 130. Once the tab section returns to a neutral position, it may be unable to move back through the loop 130 in the opposite direction, thereby securing the first and second strap portions 115, 120 together. The technician may recompress the tab portions 145 (with or without a separate tool) to move the second strap portion 120 back through the loop 130.

[0088] When the strap portions 115, 120 are secured around the bundle, the technician may secure the cable connector 100 in place. Specifically, the technician mayinsert a fastener (e.g., a threaded screw) through the aperture 125 to secure the base 110 to a surface.

[0089] In other examples, the base 110 may not include an aperture 125 and instead may include another way to secure the cable connector 100 in place. For example, FIGS.11 to 13 may include a curved hook 165. The hook 165 may have an S-shape, or any other similar curved shape. FIGS. 14 to 16 illustrate an example of two overlapping projections 170 forming an interior space 175. An inner projection 170 may be flexible to bias inwardly to expand a gap between the projections 170 to permit access to the interior space. FIGS. 17 to 19 illustrate an alternate example of overlapping projections 180 forming an interior space 185. In any of these examples, the respective connector may be able to selectively receive an element (e.g., a cable, a fastener, etc.) to secure the cable connector 100.

[0090] In some forms, the cable connector 100 may be reusable. For example, the tab sections 145 may move in the opposite direction back through the loop 130 to enlarge the opening and / or decouple the second strap portion 120 from the first strap portion 115. The technician may manually adjust the shape of the tab sections 145 (e.g., by bending the tab sections 145 to reduce an overall width) to permit them to move in the opposite direction through the loops 130. This may be done manually without need for additional tools (although a technician may choose to use a tool to manipulate the tab sections 145). Later, the technician may retighten the cable clamp 100 by moving the latching portions 140 back through the loops.

[0091] FIGS. 26 to 31 illustrate an alternate example of a cable connector. The cable connector 200 may be similar to cable connector 100, and only some similarities and differences may be described below. Similar features include the same reference number plus “100”.

[0092] In some forms, the position of the first and second strap portions 215, 220 relative to the base 210 may be different. For example, the first strap portion 215 may be disposed at an end of base 210, and the second strap portion 220 may be disposed between the first strap portion 215 and the opposite end. The body 205 may be otherwise substantially similar to the above-described examples.

[0093] In this example, the aperture 225 (or any of the connecting features illustrated in FIGS. 11 to 19) may be disposed proximate to the second strap 220 as opposed to the first strap 215. The latching members 240 (i.e., the tab sections 245, narrowing sections 250, and inner sections 255) may be the same as any of the previously described examples and can similarly move between an open position (see e.g., FIGS. 26, 27, 29, and 30) and a closed position where the latching members 240 are inserted through at least one loop 230 (see e.g., FIGS. 28 and 31 ).

[0094] As shown in FIGS. 29 to 31, some forms of the cable connector 200 may include at least one support 266 (e.g., two shown on either edge of the first strap portion 215). The supports 266 may provide support for the base 210 to stand.

[0095] In some forms, a technician may select between the cable connector 100 and the cable connector 200 based on where the connection is occurring. In other words, a cable connector 100, 200 may be based on whether the aperture 225 is positioned on the right or left.

[0096] FIGS. 32 to 34 illustrate an alternate example of a cable connector. The cable connector 300 may be similar to cable connector 100, and only some similarities and differences may be described below. Sim liar features include the same reference number plus “200”.

[0097] The cable connector 300 may similarly include a body 305 with a base 310 that has a first and second strap portion 315, 320. The illustrated body 305 includes an aperture 325, but alternate examples could include connectors similar to what is disclosed in FIGS. 11 to 19.

[0098] In some forms, the latching segment 340 may include a ribbed section 390 that extends from either side of the second strap portion 320. The ribbed section 390 may replace the tab section 145 and the narrowing section 150 of the previous examples. In the illustrated example, the width between the ribbed sections 390 may be substantially similar to the width between the tab sections 145. The inner section 355 may narrow in a direction of an adjacent latching member 340.

[0099] In some forms, the ribbed section 390 may include a pair of projections 391 with a groove 392 disposed in between. The ribbed section 390 may include a complementary shape to the loop 330 which may include a central projection 393.

[0100] When moving from the open position (see e.g., FIGS 32 and 33) to the closed position (see e.g., FIG. 34), a technician may align the ribbed section 390 with the loop 330 so that the groove 392 is positioned to receive the central projection 393. Once aligned, the ribbed section 390 may slide through the loop 330. After sliding through, the curvature of the first and second strap portions 315, 320 may move the ribbed section 390 out of alignment with the loop 330, which may assist to limit the inadvertent movement of the second strap portion 320 back to the open position. A technician may need to manually manipulate the first and second straps 315, 320 so that the ribbed section 390 is again in alignment with the loop 330.

[0101] FIG. 35 to 37 illustrates an alternate example of the second strap 320. Specifically, a maximum width of the second strap portion 320 may be less than the width of the opening in the loop 330. Instead, one or more projection portions 360 may be formed on an upper surface of the second strap portion 320.

[0102] The projection portions 360 may be similar to the ribbed sections 390 and may similarly include a pair of projections 361 and a groove 362. The projection portion 360 may be similarly aligned with a loop 330 so that the groove 362 is aligned with a projection 364 on an upper end of the loop 330. The projection 360 may slide through the loop 330 to move the cable connector 300 from an open position (see e.g., FIGS. 35 and 36) to a closed position (see e.g., FIG. 37).

[0103] In other examples, each projection portion 360 may extend from the second strap portion a distance that is greater than a height of the loop 330 to similarly limit passage of the second strap portion 320 through the loops 330. The projection portion 360 may be compressive (e.g., via an external force applied by the technician) to have a reduced height that permits passage through the latching section 340 through the loops 330. In some forms, the width of the alternate second strap portion may be constant, while other examples may include a varying width (e.g., a narrowing section).

[0104] One of ordinary skill will appreciate that the exact dimensions and materials are not critical to the disclosure and all suitable variations should be deemed to be within the scope of the disclosure if deemed suitable for carrying out the objects of the disclosure.

[0105] One of ordinary skill in the art will also readily appreciate that it is well within the ability of the ordinarily skilled artisan to modify one or more of the constituent partsfor carrying out the various examples of the disclosure. Once armed with the present specification, routine experimentation is all that is needed to determine adjustments and modifications that will carry out the present disclosure.

[0106] The above examples are for illustrative purposes and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure or the adaptation of the features described herein. Those skilled in the art will also appreciate that various adaptations and modifications of the above-described preferred examples can be configured without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosure. Therefore, it is to be understood that, within the scope of the appended claims, the disclosure may be practiced other than as specifically described.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A clamp comprising:a body having a top surface;a first strap portion coupled to the top surface, wherein the first strap portion includes a loop with an opening having a first width;a second strap portion coupled to the top surface, wherein the second strap portion includes,a tab section having a second width that is equal to or greater than the first width, anda narrowing section having a third width less than the second width; wherein the third width is less than the first width and the narrowing section is configured to freely move though the opening in a first direction;wherein the tab section is configured to flex between a neutral position and a compressed position when the narrowing section moves through the opening in a first direction, the compressed position having a width less than the first width and configured to move through the opening in a first direction.

2. The clamp of claim 1, wherein the narrowing section has a substantially triangular shape and the third width is a maximum width of the narrowing section.

3. The clamp of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the loop is a first loop, the first strap portion further includes a second loop spaced apart from the first loop, wherein the tab section and the narrowing section are configured to selectively move through the first loop and the second loop.

4. The clamp of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first strap portion and the second strap portion are integrally formed with the body in a one-piece construction.

5. The clamp of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first strap portion and the second strap portion are constructed from a material including at least one of rubber, santoprene, polypropylene, ethylene propylene diene monomer.

6. The clamp of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the tab section is a first tab section and the narrowing section is a first narrowing section, the second strap portion further includes,a second tab section having the second width and a second narrowing section having the third width;wherein the first narrowing section is disposed between the first tab section and the second tab section.

7. The clamp of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the body includes a first end and a second end, wherein the first strap portion is disposed at the first end, and wherein the second strap portion is disposed between the first end and the second end.

8. A clamp comprising:a body having a top surface extending between a first end and a second end; a first strap portion coupled to the first end, wherein the first strap portion includes a loop with an opening having a first dimension;a second strap portion coupled between the first end and the second end, wherein the second strap portion includes,a tab section having a second dimension that is equal to or greater than the first dimension, anda narrowing section extending from the tab section and having a substantially triangular shape, the narrowing section includes a third dimension less than the second dimension;wherein the third dimension is less than the first dimension and the narrowing section is configured to freely move though the opening in a first direction;wherein the tab section is configured to flex between a neutral position and a compressed position when the narrowing section moves through the opening in a first direction, the compressed position having a dimension less than the first dimension and configured to move through the opening in a first direction.

9. The clamp of claim 8, wherein the loop is a first loop, the first strap portion further includes a second loop spaced apart from the first loop, wherein the tab section and the narrowing section are configured to selectively move through the first loop and the second loop.

10. The clamp of claim 8 or claim 9, wherein the first strap portion and the second strap portion are integrally formed with the body in a one-piece construction.

11. The clamp of any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein the first strap portion and the second strap portion are constructed from a material including at least one of rubber, santoprene, polypropylene, ethylene propylene diene monomer.

12. The clamp of any one of claims 8 to 11, wherein the tab section is a first tab section and the narrowing section is a first narrowing section, the second strap portion further includes,a second tab section having the second dimension and a second narrowing section having the third dimension;wherein the first narrowing section is disposed between the first tab section and the second tab section.

13. The clamp of any one of claims 8 to 12, further comprising an aperture that passes through the body, wherein the second strap portion is disposed between the first strap portion and the aperture.

14. The clamp of any one of claims 8 to 13, wherein the narrowing section extends in a first direction along a length of the second strap portion and the tab section extends in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction and to the surface of the second strap portion, and wherein the first dimension is a first height dimension measured from a surface of the first strap portion, and wherein the second dimension is a second height dimension measured from a surface of the second strap portion.

15. The clamp of any one of claims 8 to 1, wherein the narrowing section extends in a first direction along a length of the second strap portion and the tab section extends in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and wherein the first dimension is a first width dimension measured across a surface of the first strap portion, and wherein the second dimension is a second width dimension measured across a surface of the second strap portion.

16. A method of securing electrical wires, the method comprising:positioning a cable clamp in an open position, the cable clamp comprising a first strap portion and a second strap portion spaced apart from the first strap portion:positioning the electrical wires in a spaced between the first strap portion and the second strap portion;threading a narrowing section of the second strap portion into an opening of the first strap portion, wherein the narrowing section has a maximum width less than a width of the opening; andmoving a tab section of the second strap portion from a neutral position to a compressed position as the narrowing section passes through the opening;wherein the second strap portion is releasably coupled to the first strap portion by recompressing the tab section.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein the tab section is a first tab section and the narrowing section is a first narrowing section, the method further includes,threading a second narrowing section of the second strap portion into the opening of the first strap portion, wherein the second narrowing section has a maximum width less than a width of the opening; andmoving a second tab section of the second strap portion from a neutral position to a compressed position as the second narrowing section passes through the opening.

18. The method of claim 16 or claim 17, wherein the narrowing section has a substantially triangular shape and [[the]] a third width is a maximum width of the narrowing section.

19. The method of any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein the first strap portion and the second strap portion are constructed from a material including at least one of rubber, santoprene, polypropylene, ethylene propylene diene monomer.

20. The method of any one of claims 16 to 19, wherein the opening is a first opening, the method further includes,threading the narrowing section of the second strap portion into a second opening of the first strap portion, wherein the narrowing section has a maximum width less than a width of the second opening; andmoving the tab section of the second strap portion from the neutral position to the compressed position as the narrowing section passes through the second opening.

21. A clamp comprising:a body having a top surface extending between a first end and a second end;a first strap portion coupled between the first end and the second end, wherein the first strap portion includes a loop with an opening having a first dimension;a second strap portion coupled to the first end, wherein the second strap portion includes,a tab section having a second dimension that is equal to or greater than the first dimension, anda narrowing section extending from the tab section and having a substantially triangular shape, the narrowing section includes a third dimension less than the second dimension;wherein the third dimension is less than the first dimension and the narrowing section is configured to freely move though the opening in a first direction;wherein the tab section is configured to flex between a neutral position and a compressed position when the narrowing section moves through the opening in a first direction, the compressed position having a dimension less than the first dimension and configured to move through the opening in a first direction.

22. The clamp of claim 21, wherein the loop is a first loop, the first strap portion further includes a second loop spaced apart from the first loop, wherein the tab section and the narrowing section are configured to selectively move through the first loop and the second loop.

23. The clamp of claim 21 or claim 22, wherein the first strap portion and the second strap portion are integrally formed with the body in a one-piece construction.

24. The clamp of any one of claims 21 to 23, wherein the first strap portion and the second strap portion are constructed from a material including at least one of rubber, santoprene, polypropylene, ethylene propylene diene monomer.

25. The clamp of any one of claims 21 to 24, wherein the tab section is a first tab section and the narrowing section is a first narrowing section, the second strap portion further includes,a second tab section having the second dimension and a second narrowing section having the third dimension;wherein the first narrowing section is disposed between the first tab section and the second tab section.

26. The clamp of any one of claims 21 to 25, further comprising an aperture that passes through the body, wherein the second strap portion is disposed between the first strap portion and the aperture.

27. The clamp of any one of claims 21 to 26, wherein the narrowing section extends in a first direction along a length of the second strap portion and the tab section extends in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction and to the surface of the second strap portion, and wherein the first dimension is a first height dimension measured from a surface of the first strap portion, and wherein the second dimension is a second height dimension measured from a surface of the second strap portion.

28. The clamp of any one of claims 21 to 27, wherein the narrowing section extends in a first direction along a length of the second strap portion and the tab section extends in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and wherein the first dimension is a first width dimension measured across a surface of the first strap portion, and wherein the second dimension is a second width dimension measured across a surface of the second strap portion.

29. A clamp comprising:a body having a top surface and an opening that extends through the body; a first strap portion coupled to the top surface, wherein the first strap portion includes a loop with an opening having a first width;a second strap portion coupled to the top surface, wherein the second strap portion includes,a tab section having a second width that is greater than the first width, and a narrowing section having a third width less than the first width; wherein the tab section is configured to flex between a neutral position and a compressed position when the narrowing section moves through the opening in a first direction, the compressed position having a width less than the first width and configured to move through the opening in a first direction.

30. The clamp of claim 29, wherein the first strap is disposed between the second strap and the opening.

31. The clamp of claim 29, wherein the second strap is disposed between the first strap and the opening.

32. The clamp of any one of claims 29 to 31, wherein the opening has a complete perimeter.

33. The clamp of any one of claims 29 to 31, wherein the opening is formed from an outer projection and an inner projection, and wherein the inner projection is movable relative to the outer projection to selective provide an open perimeter to the opening.

34. The clamp of any one of claims 29 to 33, wherein the narrowing section has a substantially triangular shape and the third width is a maximum width of the narrowing section.

35. The clamp of any one of claims 29 to 34, wherein the loop is a first loop, the first strap portion further includes a second loop spaced apart from the first loop, wherein the tab section and the narrowing section are configured to selectively move through the first loop and the second loop.

36. The clamp of any one of claims 29 to 35, wherein the first strap portion and the second strap portion are integrally formed with the body in a one-piece construction.

37. The clamp of any one of claims 29 to 36, wherein the first strap portion and the second strap portion are constructed from a material including at least one of rubber, santoprene, polypropylene, ethylene propylene diene monomer.

38. The clamp of any one of claims 29 to 37, wherein the tab section is a first tab section and the narrowing section is a first narrowing section, the second strap portion further includes,a second tab section having the second width and a second narrowing section having the third width;wherein the first narrowing section is disposed between the first tab section and the second tab section.

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