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GB2504766A - Apparatus for retaining a cable or tubing - Google Patents

Apparatus for retaining a cable or tubing Download PDF

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Publication number
GB2504766A
GB2504766A GB201214298A GB201214298A GB2504766A GB 2504766 A GB2504766 A GB 2504766A GB 201214298 A GB201214298 A GB 201214298A GB 201214298 A GB201214298 A GB 201214298A GB 2504766 A GB2504766 A GB 2504766A
Authority
GB
United Kingdom
Prior art keywords
clipping
base portion
elements
cable
pair
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Granted
Application number
GB201214298A
Other versions
GB2504766B (en
GB201214298D0 (en
Inventor
Thomas James Helliwell
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Individual
Original Assignee
Individual
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Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Individual filed Critical Individual
Priority to GB1214298.0A priority Critical patent/GB2504766B/en
Publication of GB201214298D0 publication Critical patent/GB201214298D0/en
Publication of GB2504766A publication Critical patent/GB2504766A/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of GB2504766B publication Critical patent/GB2504766B/en
Expired - Fee Related legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

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Classifications

    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16L—PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16L3/00—Supports for pipes, cables or protective tubing, e.g. hangers, holders, clamps, cleats, clips, brackets
    • F16L3/22—Supports for pipes, cables or protective tubing, e.g. hangers, holders, clamps, cleats, clips, brackets specially adapted for supporting a number of parallel pipes at intervals
    • F16L3/223—Supports for pipes, cables or protective tubing, e.g. hangers, holders, clamps, cleats, clips, brackets specially adapted for supporting a number of parallel pipes at intervals each support having one transverse base for supporting the pipes
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16L—PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16L3/00—Supports for pipes, cables or protective tubing, e.g. hangers, holders, clamps, cleats, clips, brackets
    • F16L3/08—Supports for pipes, cables or protective tubing, e.g. hangers, holders, clamps, cleats, clips, brackets substantially surrounding the pipe, cable or protective tubing
    • F16L3/12—Supports for pipes, cables or protective tubing, e.g. hangers, holders, clamps, cleats, clips, brackets substantially surrounding the pipe, cable or protective tubing comprising a member substantially surrounding the pipe, cable or protective tubing
    • F16L3/123—Supports for pipes, cables or protective tubing, e.g. hangers, holders, clamps, cleats, clips, brackets substantially surrounding the pipe, cable or protective tubing comprising a member substantially surrounding the pipe, cable or protective tubing and extending along the attachment surface
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16L—PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16L3/00—Supports for pipes, cables or protective tubing, e.g. hangers, holders, clamps, cleats, clips, brackets
    • F16L3/08—Supports for pipes, cables or protective tubing, e.g. hangers, holders, clamps, cleats, clips, brackets substantially surrounding the pipe, cable or protective tubing
    • F16L3/12—Supports for pipes, cables or protective tubing, e.g. hangers, holders, clamps, cleats, clips, brackets substantially surrounding the pipe, cable or protective tubing comprising a member substantially surrounding the pipe, cable or protective tubing
    • F16L3/123—Supports for pipes, cables or protective tubing, e.g. hangers, holders, clamps, cleats, clips, brackets substantially surrounding the pipe, cable or protective tubing comprising a member substantially surrounding the pipe, cable or protective tubing and extending along the attachment surface
    • F16L3/1236—Supports for pipes, cables or protective tubing, e.g. hangers, holders, clamps, cleats, clips, brackets substantially surrounding the pipe, cable or protective tubing comprising a member substantially surrounding the pipe, cable or protective tubing and extending along the attachment surface the member being of a material other than metal
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16L—PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16L3/00—Supports for pipes, cables or protective tubing, e.g. hangers, holders, clamps, cleats, clips, brackets
    • F16L3/08—Supports for pipes, cables or protective tubing, e.g. hangers, holders, clamps, cleats, clips, brackets substantially surrounding the pipe, cable or protective tubing
    • F16L3/12—Supports for pipes, cables or protective tubing, e.g. hangers, holders, clamps, cleats, clips, brackets substantially surrounding the pipe, cable or protective tubing comprising a member substantially surrounding the pipe, cable or protective tubing
    • F16L3/127—Supports for pipes, cables or protective tubing, e.g. hangers, holders, clamps, cleats, clips, brackets substantially surrounding the pipe, cable or protective tubing comprising a member substantially surrounding the pipe, cable or protective tubing and extending away from the attachment surface
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16L—PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16L3/00—Supports for pipes, cables or protective tubing, e.g. hangers, holders, clamps, cleats, clips, brackets
    • F16L3/08—Supports for pipes, cables or protective tubing, e.g. hangers, holders, clamps, cleats, clips, brackets substantially surrounding the pipe, cable or protective tubing
    • F16L3/12—Supports for pipes, cables or protective tubing, e.g. hangers, holders, clamps, cleats, clips, brackets substantially surrounding the pipe, cable or protective tubing comprising a member substantially surrounding the pipe, cable or protective tubing
    • F16L3/13—Supports for pipes, cables or protective tubing, e.g. hangers, holders, clamps, cleats, clips, brackets substantially surrounding the pipe, cable or protective tubing comprising a member substantially surrounding the pipe, cable or protective tubing and engaging it by snap action
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
    • H02G—INSTALLATION OF ELECTRIC CABLES OR LINES, OR OF COMBINED OPTICAL AND ELECTRIC CABLES OR LINES
    • H02G3/00—Installations of electric cables or lines or protective tubing therefor in or on buildings, equivalent structures or vehicles
    • H02G3/24—Installation of lines or cables on walls, ceilings or floors by means of insulators
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
    • H02G—INSTALLATION OF ELECTRIC CABLES OR LINES, OR OF COMBINED OPTICAL AND ELECTRIC CABLES OR LINES
    • H02G3/00—Installations of electric cables or lines or protective tubing therefor in or on buildings, equivalent structures or vehicles
    • H02G3/26—Installations of cables, lines, or separate protective tubing therefor directly on or in walls, ceilings, or floors
    • H02G3/266—Mounting by adhesive material
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
    • H02G—INSTALLATION OF ELECTRIC CABLES OR LINES, OR OF COMBINED OPTICAL AND ELECTRIC CABLES OR LINES
    • H02G3/00—Installations of electric cables or lines or protective tubing therefor in or on buildings, equivalent structures or vehicles
    • H02G3/30—Installations of cables or lines on walls, floors or ceilings
    • H02G3/305—Mounting by adhesive material
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
    • H02G—INSTALLATION OF ELECTRIC CABLES OR LINES, OR OF COMBINED OPTICAL AND ELECTRIC CABLES OR LINES
    • H02G3/00—Installations of electric cables or lines or protective tubing therefor in or on buildings, equivalent structures or vehicles
    • H02G3/30—Installations of cables or lines on walls, floors or ceilings
    • H02G3/32—Installations of cables or lines on walls, floors or ceilings using mounting clamps

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Architecture (AREA)
  • Civil Engineering (AREA)
  • Structural Engineering (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Supports For Pipes And Cables (AREA)

Abstract

An apparatus 101 for retaining a cable or tubing comprises a clipping member comprising a base portion 103 having an upper portion (fig 2:116) and a lower portion (fig 2:117), and a plurality of clipping elements 104a -104f attached to and extending from the upper surface of the base portion, the clipping elements having a space between adjacent pairs of clipping elements for receiving a cable or tubing wherein the base portion is foldable about a line 114a, 114b, 114c, 115a, 115b along which it has a reduced thickness when compared to the thickness of the base portion adjacent to the line with the line running between clipping elements. The lower portion of the base may comprise an adhesive layer. A first 104a and second 104b clipping element defines a first space for retaining a cable and a neighbouring third clipping element 104c with the second element 104b defines a second space of receiving a cable or tubing. The line or groove in the base portion may be a slit in the upper portion. The clipping elements are arranged in rows and columns.

Description

Apparatus for Retaining a Cable or Tubing
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application represents the first application for a patent directed towards the invention and the subject matter.
BACKGROuND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to apparatus for retaining a cable or tubing and a method of manufacturing apparatus for retaining a cable or tubing.
2. Description of the Related Art
It is known to retain a cable by use of a clip referred to as a "cable nail".
Such a clip comprises a U-shaped piece, moulded from a plastics material and having a hole containing a nail or pin. The U-shaped piece is located over the cable and the cable retained against a surface by hammering the nail into the surface.
A first problem with such a device is that where several cables are to be located side by side, each cable requires its own set of cable nails to be fixed to the surface. The cable nails are relatively bulky and wide, due to the nail extending through the plastics material by the side of the cable. Also because each cable nail is individually fixed the neatness of the cable nails and cables is heavily dependent upon the ability of the person fixing them in place.
A second potential problem is that, once it is fixed to a surface, the cable cannot easily be removed unless the cable nail is removed from the surface. This may be problem where the cable is required to be moved and replaced regularly or when the cable is in a location where it can cause a tripping hazard. In the latter case, the cable is firmly held in place by cable nails and can provide sufficient resistance to trip a person up, rather than releasing the cable.
A third potential problem with the "cable nail' is that it is manufactured by injection moulding into a solid, rigid shape. This shape is restricted by the size and shapeof a cable or tubing and a different cable nail must be used for a different cable/tubing size and shape. i.e. there is almost no flexibility or adaptability.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided apparatus for retaining a cable or tubing as claimed in claim 1.
According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of manufacturing apparatus for retaining a cable or tubing as claimed in claim 16.
According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided apparatus as claimed in claim 26.
According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided apparatus as claimed in claim 34. -
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Figure 1 shows a perspective view of apparatus 101 for retaining a cable or tubing; Figure 2 shows a front view of apparatus 101 for retaining a cable or tubing; Figure 3 shows a side view of apparatus 101 for retaining a cable or tubing; Figure 4 shows a second apparatus 201 embodying the present invention; Figure 5 shows a third apparatus 501 for retaining a cable or tubing; Figure 6 shows apparatus 601 for retaining a cable or tubing; Figure 7 shows a further apparatus 701 for retaining a cable or tubing; Figure 8 shows a cross-sectional view of a cable 801 being inserted into the space 802 between the clipping element 104a and clipping element 104b of the apparatus 101; Figure 9 shows a cross-sectional view of a cable 901 being inserted into the space 902 between clipping elements 104b and 104c of apparatus 101; Figure 10 shows three apparatuses 1001, 1002 and 1003 retaining three cables 1004, 1005 and 1006, while the apparatuses are fixed to a surface 1007; Figure 11 shows a further example of use of apparatus embodying the present invention; Figure 12 shows a further use of an apparatus 1201 embodying the present invention; Figure 13 shows plugs 1305 and 1306 supported by an apparatus 1301; Figure 14 shows the apparatus 201 of Figure 2 being used to retain a single cable 1401 against a surface 1402; Figure 15 shows two apparatuses 1501 and 1502 fixed to each other to form a single device 1503; Figure 16 shows the device 1503 retaining loops of a single cable 1601; Figure 17 shows an alternative apparatus 1701 embodying the present invention; Figure 18 shows a further alternative apparatus 1801 embodying the present invention; Figure 19 shows a still further alternative apparatus 1901 embodying the present invention; and Figure 20 shows another alternative apparatus 2001 embodying the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS
Figures 1, 2 and 3 Apparatus 101 for retaining a cable or tubing is shown in the perspective view of Figure 1, the front view of Figure 2 and the side view of Figure 3. The apparatus 101 comprises a clipping member 102 comprising a base portion 103 and a plurality of clipping elements 104. The base portion 103 has an upper surface 105 and a lower surface 106, and the clipping elements 104 are attached to and extend from the upper surface 105 of the base portion 103.
In the present example, the apparatus 101 has twenty four clipping * elements 104, including clipping elements 104a, 104b, 104c, 104d, 104e and I 04f which are arranged in a line defining a first row 107 of the apparatus 101.
The apparatus 101 has three other similar rows 108, 109 and 110, which are similarly configured to row 107, having six clipping elements 104.
As will be explained below in further detail, each of the clipping elements and its neighbour, or neighbours, along a row have a space in between them for receiving a cable or tubing. For example, clipping elements 104a and 104d have a space between them for receiving one or more cables, and clipping elements 104b and 104c have a space between them for receiving one or more cables.
It may be noted that, each of the clipping elements is similar in shape being in the form of a fin of material having a curved surface. However, there is a difference in the shape.of the space between the clipping elements 104a and 104b and the space between clipping elements 104b and 104c. This is as a result of the shape of the clipping elements. Each one of the first pair of clipping elements, comprising clipping elements 104a and 104b, has a lower portion Ill extending away from the base portion 103 and away from the other clipping element of the pair, and an upper portion 112 extending from the lower portion 111 towards the other clipping element of the first pair. Thus, the clipping elements 104a and 104b forming the first pair have a V-shaped configuration that is partially closed by the upper portions 112; a gap 150 existing between the ends of the two upper portions 112. To allow a cable or tubing to be inserted into the space between the clipping elements 104a and 104b, the lower and upper portions of said clipping elements are configured to flex under manual pressure to allow the gap 150 to open while the cable or tubing is passed through.
In contrast, the clipping element 104b and clipping element 104c define a second pair of clipping elements in which each one of the pair has a lower portion 111 extending away from the base portion 103 and towards the other clipping elements of the second pair, and an upper portion 112 extending from the lower portion 111 away from the other clipping element of the second pair.
Thus, the clipping elements 104b and 104c forming the second pair have a delta-shaped arrangement, and they define a relatively narrow gap 151 between the ends of their lower portions 111. To allow a cable or tubing to be inserted into the space between the clipping elements 104b and 104c, their lower portions 111 are configured to flex under manual pressure to widen the gap 151 while the cable or tubing passes through the gap.
It may be noted that, in the present embodiment each one of the spaces between the pairs of clipping elements is substantially triangular shaped. However, in an alternative embodiment, the lower portions 111 are curved such that the space between the clipping element 104a and clipping element 104b is heart shaped.
The base portion 103 defines three lines 113a, 113b, and 113c along which the base portion has a reduced thickness when compared to the thickness of the base portion adjacent to the line. The lines 113a, 113b and 113c separate a first row of the clipping elements 104 from another row of the clipping elements. Thus, line 113a separates row 107 from row 108, line 113d separates row 108 from row 109 and line 113c separates row 109 from row 110.
The base portion 103 also has five further lines 114a, 114b, 114c, 115a and 115b which extend along the base portion substantially perpendicular to the first lines 113a, 113b and 113c. The base portion also has a reduced thickness along the lines 114a, 114b, 114c, 115a and 115b when compared with the thickness of the base portion adjacent to the lines. The lines 114a, 114b, 114c and 115a and 115b separate one column of clipping elements from another column of the clipping elements. For example, line 114a separates a first column of clipping elements containing clipping element 104a from a second column containing clipping element 104b. Similarly, line 115a separates the second column containing clipping element 114b from a third column containing clipping element I 14c.
Because the base portion has a reduced thickness along the lines, such as lines 113a, 114a and 115a it is foldable about those lines. Thus, if the apparatus 101 is to be fixed to a non-flat surface, it is possible that the base portion 103 may be folded to approximate the shape of the non-flat surface.
Furthermore, because the base portion has a reduced thickness along the lines, it is also easier to cut along those lines. Thus, the lines of reduced thickness provide a cutting guide along which a craft knife, scissors, etc., may be used to cut the apparatus 101 into smaller parts. Furthermore, the lines of reduced thickness aid the user when applying the apparatus is a precise manner. Angles, linearity, etc. can be improved with appropriate tools and devices using the lines of reduced thickness as guidelines.
The apparatus 101 of the present embodiment has a base portion 103 formed of a first member 116 and the second member 117. The first member defines the upper surface 105 while the second member 117 defines the lower surface 106. Inthe present embodiment, the first member 116 and the clipping elements 104 are integrally formed of a first type of material, while the second member 117 is formed of a second type of material that is more compliant than the first type of material. Specifically, the first member and the clipping elements are formed by extruding a plastics material, which in the present embodiment is a flexible polyvinyl chloride, while the second member 117 is formed of a viscoelastic material which in the present embodiment, is a resilient foam material.
In a method of manufacturing the apparatus 101 the first element 116 is extruded to create a relatively long piece having a profile as illustrated in Figure 2. The extruded piece comprises five grooves along the lines 114a, 114b, 114c, 115a and 115b, to provide the reduced thickness along those lines, Thus, the first member 116 has, what are commonly known as living hinges, or live hinges, along the lines 114a, 114b, 114c, 115a and 115b.
The extruded piece is then cut into short lengths corresponding to the rows, such as rows 107 to 110. The short lengths of material are then fixed onto the viscoelastic material. In the present embodiment, the lower surface 106 of the base portion 103 is provided with an adhesive layer 118 for fixing the apparatus to a surface during use, and a release liner 119. In the present method of manufacture, the viscoelastic material, the adhesive and the release liner are provided by assembling the shod lengths of extrusion onto a double sided acrylic foam tape.
Thus, it should be understood from this that the lines 113a, 113b and 113c are defined by a slit in said first member 116, such that along the line said base portion comprises the second member only. In Figures 1 and 2 a small gap is shown between adjacent sections of the first member 116, i.e. between adjacent rows of clipping elements. However, in an embodiment, the small gaps are eliminated so that adjacent sections of the first member 116 are arranged to be in mutual contact.
In an alternative method of manufacture, the first member 116 and the clipping elements 104 are integraliy formed by injection moulding, rather than by extruding.
In one embodiment, the clipping elements 104 and first member 116 are formed of a plastics material containing a photoluminescent polymer additive (such as strontium aluminate or zinc sulphide), or are provided within a layer applied to the clipping elements and/or first member, such as by paint, so that the apparatus fluoresces or phosphoresces. When made to phosphoresce, the apparatus provides an indication in dark conditions of the location of the cable it retains, and therefore it provides a safety aspect, for example by warning of a tripping hazard in low light conditions.
The presently described embodiment comprises twenty four clipping elements arranged in a lattice having four rows and six columns. However, it should be understood that this is arrangement is provided for example purposes only and fewer, or more, rows and columns may be provided in a single apparatus. As the clipping elements operate in pairs to retain a tube or cable, the apparatus must have at least two columns, i.e. the apparatus must be at least two clipping elements wide. However, an apparatus may only comprise a single row.
As suggested from the above, the apparatus 101 is intended to be cut along one or more of the lines 113a, 113b, 113c, 114a, 114b, 114c, 115a and 115b to form smaller apparatuses of a required size.
Examples of smaller apparatuses, which may be formed by culling apparatus 101, are shown in Figures 4 to 7.
Figure 4 A second apparatus 201 embodying the present invention is shown in the perspective view of Figure 4. The apparatus 201 has only a single row of six clipping elements, and in the present example, it has been formed by cuffing along line 113a of apparatus 101. Thus, apparatus 201 comprises clipping elements 104a to 1041 The apparatus 201 may be used in its present form by peeling away the release liner 119 to expose the adhesive layer 118 and using the adhesive 118 to fix the apparatus to a surface at a chosen location. Cables or tubing may then be located within one or more of the five spaces between the six clipping elements 104a to 104f.
Figure 5 Apparatus 501 for attaching a cable or tubing to a surface is shown in Figure 5. The apparatus 501 has a similar structure to apparatus 101 having a base portion 503 and a plurality of clipping elements 104. However1 the apparatus 501 only comprises two clipping elements 104 and th!refore it only defines a single space 502 for receiving one or more cables or tubing.
Figure 6 Apparatus 601 for retaining a cable or tubing is shown in Figure 6. The apparatus 601 comprises three clipping elements 104d, 104e and 104f. Thus, in the present example, the apparatus 601 has been formed from the apparatus 201 by cuffing along the line 114b. Thus, the apparatus 601 comprises a first one of said clipping elements 104d and a second one of said clipping elements 104e in line with a third one of said clipping elements 104f.
The first and second ones of said clipping elements 104d and 104e provide a first space 602 for receiving a cable and the second and third ones of said clipping elements 104e and 104f provide a second space 603 for receiving a cable for tubing.
Figure 7 A further apparatus 701 for retaining a cable or tubing is shown in Figure 7. The apparatus 701 has a lattice of clipping elements 104 arranged in four rows 702, 703, 704, 705 and two columns 706, 707. The clipping elements in each column are arranged end to end and consequently the space provided between the pairs of clipping elements in each row are aligned to provide a continuous passageway for receiving a cable or tubing.
Figure 8 Apparatus 101 is shown in Figure 8 during the process of a cable 801 being inserted into the space 802 between the clipping element 104a and clipping element 104b.
The cable 801 has a diameter that is larger than the gap 150 (shown in Figure 1) between the ends of the upper portions 112 of the clipping elements 104a and 104b. However, the cable 801 is able to be forced into the space 802 by manually widening the gap between the upper portions 112 of clipping elements 104a and 104b. This is achieved by flexing the upper portions 112 of the clipping elements, as well as the lower portions 111 of said clipping elements. In addition, the live hinges formed along lines 114a and 115a, as well as the deformable nature of the second member 117, allow the base portion 103 to flex, while the cable 801 passes through the gap 150.
Figure 9 A cross-sectional view of a cable 901 is shown in Figure 9 as the cable is inserted into the space 902 between clipping elements 104b and 104c of the apparatus 101. In order to enter the space 902, the cable is forced through the narrow gap at 151 (identified in Figure 1) at the upper ends of the lower portions 111 of the clipping elements. To allow this to happen, the clipping elements 104b and 104c are manually forced apart by flexing the lower portions 111. In addition, due to the presence of the live hinges along lines 114a, 114b and 115a, along with the deformable nature of the second member 117, the base portion 103 is also able to flex to facilitate the insertion of the cable 901.
Figure 10 By way of example of their use, three apparatuses 1001, 1002 and 1003 are shown retaining three cables 1004, 1005 and 1006, while said apparatuses are fixed to a surface 1007. Although the apparatuses 1001, 1002 and 1003 have varying numbers of clipping elements, they have a structure similar to that of apparatus 101. Thus, the apparatuses 1001 to 1003 have been fixed to the surface 1007 by removing the release liner 119 and using the adhesive layer 118.
As illustrated in Figure 10, cables 1004 and 1006 are retained within V-shaped configurations, such as formed by clipping elements 104g and 104h, while the third cable 1005 is retained within a delta-shaped space formed by clipping elements such as clipping element 104h and 104i.
In the present example, the apparatuses 1001, 1002 and 1003 are arranged to support cables that are extending linearly. However, it will be appreciated that one or more of the apparatuses 1001, 1002 and 1003 may be mounted at an angle to the other apparatuses in order to redirect cabling. For example1 where cabling is to be directed around a 90 degree bend, apparatus such as apparatus 1002 and 1003 may be positioned on the surface 1007 extending in directions that are 90 degrees to one another.
In the present example, only a single cable is retained by a pair of clipping elements. However, it is anticipated that, depending upon their diameter, more than one cable may be retained between a pair of clipping elements.
Figure 11 A further example of use of apparatus embodying the present invention is illustrated in Figure 11. A portion of a stand 1101 for a computer monitor is shown in Figure 11 resting on the surface of a table 1102. A first apparatus 1103 is fixed to the edge 1104 of the table 1102 while two further apparatuses 1105 and 1106 are affixed to the stand 1101.
The apparatus 1103 comprises four clipping elements 104j, 104k, 1041 and 104m. A first cable 1107 is retained between the clipping elements 104j and 104k, while a second cable 1108 is retained in the space between clipping elements 1041 and 104m. The first cable 1107 extends from the apparatus 1103 up to the apparatus 1105 through which it extends and is retained by apparatus 1105. Similarly, cable 1108 extends from apparatus 1103 up to the apparatus 1106, where it is retained by the apparatus 1106. Thus, the apparatuses 1103, 1105 and 1106 retain and direct the cables 1107 and 1108 between the table 1102 and the monitor stand 1101.
Figure 12 A further use of an apparatus 1201 embodying the present invention is shown in Figure 12. The apparatus 1201 has a similar construction to apparatus 101 but has five rows 1202, 1203, 1204, 1205 and 1206 of clipping elements 104 rather than just four rows.
The release liner 119 has been removed from the two end rows 1202 and 1206 of the apparatus 1201 but has been left on the middle three rows 1203, 1204 and 1205. Thus, the adhesive layer 118 has been exposed from the end rows 1202 and 1206 to allow them to be stuck to the upper and lower surfaces of a table top 1207 adjacent to its edge 1208. The base portion 103 of the apparatus 1201 is folded along lines 113p, 113q, 113s and 113t such that each of the rows 1202, 1203, 1204, 1205 and 1206 is arranged at an angle to its neighbour or neighbours.
A cable 1209 has been inserted into a space between the clipping elements 104 of each of the five rows and consequently the clipping elements retain a portion of the cable 1209 that extends from the upper surface of the table 1207 around the edge 1208 of the table and to the under surface of the
table.
Figure 13 A still further use for apparatus embodying the present invention is shown in Figure 13.
An apparatus 1301 is fixed to the edge 1302 of a table. The apparatus 1301 comprises of four clipping elements 104n, l04p, 104r and 104s arranged in a single row. A first cable 1303 is retained between clipping elements lO4p and 104r while a second cable 1304 is retained between clipping elements 104r and 104s. The first cable 1303 terminates in a USB plug 1305, while the second cable 1304 terminates in a jack plug 1306. The plugs 1305 and 1306 have been disconnected from their respective sockets and, because the plugs are too large to fit through the spaces between the clipping elements, the plugs are supported by the apparatus 1301. Thus, the apparatus 1301 provides a a storage point for plugs that are currently not in use and which are disconnected from their respective devices.
Figure 14 The apparatus 201 of Figure 2 is shown in Figure 14 being used to retain a single cable 1401 against a surface 1402. The cable 1401 has been coiled to extend upwards through a first space between clipping elements 104a and 104b, back down between the space between clipping element 104b and 104c, back up through the space between clipping elements 104c and 104d, back down between the clipping elements 104d and 104e and back up through the space between clipping elements 104e and 104f.
This type of arrangement is useful where a cable has a length that is excessive for its current purpose. Thus, the apparatus 201 provides a means for storing coils of the excess length of cable 1401, to keep it tidy and possibly preventing it from becoming a tripping hazard.
It should be noted that the flexible nature of the clipping elements, such as clipping elements 104a to 104f, allow a cable such as cable 1401 to be removed from the apparatus by pulling it away from the apparatus under a sufficiently large force. Under such a force, the clipping elements will simply become deformed to allow the cable to be released. This feature is considered to be a useful safety aspect to the apparatus. For example, where cable, such as cable 1401 extends in an area where tripping may occur, if the cable catches around a persons foot when they are walking, the cable will be pulled away from the apparatus rather than the person being tripped up.
Figure 15 Apparatus embodying the present invention is shown being put to a further use in Figures 15 and 16. In the present example, two apparatuses 1501 and 1502, each having a single row of six clipping elements have been fixed to each other. This has been achieved by peeling away the release liner from the base portions of each of the two apparatuses and sticking the two base portions to one another. Thus, as shown in Figure 15, the two apparatuses 1501 and 1502 have effectively formed a single device 1503 in which a first six clipping elements 104t extend from a first side of a base portion 1504, while a second six clipping elements 104u extend from the other side of the base portion 1504.
The device 1503 is shown in use in Figure 16, where it retains loops of a single cable 1601. Thus, the device 1501 is useful in situations where a cable 1601 has excessive length In such a case, the length of cable in excess of that which is required is retained by the device 1501 by passing successive loops of the cable through selected spaces between the clipping elements lO4tandlO4u.
It may be noted that the device 1501 is performing a similar function to the apparatus 201 as illustrated in Figure 14, in that it is storing excess cable.
However, whereas the apparatus of Figure 14 is configured to be attached to a surface such that the cable 1401 is retained against the surface, the device of 1501 is supported by the cable 1601 itself.
Figure 17 An alternative apparatus 1701 embodying the present invention is shown in Figure 17. The apparatus 1701 is very similar to apparatus 101 and most of its features are identical. These features have been provided with the same references as those of apparatus 101 in Figure 1. However, the apparatus 1701 differs from apparatus 101 in that it only has live hinges formed between alternate pairs of clipping elements. I.e. there are no live hinges provided between clipping elements 104a and 104b, between clipping elements 104c and 104d or between clipping elements 104e and 104f However, the live hinges still exist along lines 115a, between clipping elements 104b and 104c, and along line llSd, between clipping elements 104d and 104e.
Like apparatus 101, apparatus 1701 may be used in the form that is shown in Figure 17 or may be cut into smaller pieces along lines 115a, 115b, 113a, 113b orll3cas required.
Figure 18 A further alternative apparatus 1801 embodying the present invention is shown in Figure 18. The apparatus 1801 has a structure similar to the apparatus 101, having a base portion 1803 from which extend twelve clipping elements 1804 arranged in two rows of six. The base portion 1803 comprises a first member 1816 that is integrally formed with the clipping elements 1804, and a second member 1817 formed of a more compliant material that is adhered to the lower surface of the first member. The lower surface of the second member is covered with an adhesive layer 1818, to allow the apparatus 1801 to be affixed to a surface.
A first line 1805 extends across the base portion 1803 separating the two rows of clipping elements, and the first member 1816 of the base portion 1803 has a cut, or slit, extending along this line. The first member 1816 has been farmed with five live hinges along lines 1814a, 1814b, 1814c, 1815a and lSlSb extending perpendicular to the line 1805.
The apparatus 1801 differs from the apparatus 101 in that the upper portions 1812 of its clipping elements has been formed with ridges and grooves. Specifically, the clipping elements form pairs in which the ridges and grooves provide a latching mechanism for holding the clipping elements of a pair together. For example, a first clipping element 1804a has a first set of ridges 1851 formed an the upper surface of its upper portion 1812, while the neighbouring second clipping element 1804b has ridges 1852 formed on the lower surface of its upper portion 1812. The two sets of ridges are configured to mechanically interlock when the upper portion of the second clipping element 1804b is manually pushed over the top of the upper portion of the first clipping element 1804a, Thus, for example, after a cable or tubing has been located in the space between the clipping elements 1804a and 1804b, the two clipping elements 1804a and 1804b are manually pushed together under finger pressure, the upper portion of the second clipping element 1804b rides over the upper portion of the first clipping element 1804a. On release of applied pressure the ridges of the two clipping elements 1804a and 1804b interlock so that their upper portions are locked together.
Figure 19 A still further alternative apparatus 1901 embodying the present invention is shown in Figure 19. The apparatus 1901 is very similar to apparatus 1801 but differs in the detail of the latching mechanisms provided to the upper portions of the clipping elements. Specifically, one of the clipping elements in a pair of clipping elements (such as clipping element 1904a) has an upper portion 1912a that has a slot 1961 extending along its width, while the other clipping element of the pair (such as clipping element 1904b) has an upper portion 1912b that is dimensioned to fit into the slot.
The slot 1961 has a lower surface provided with ridges, while the lower surface of the upper portion 1912b has ridges that are configured to interlock with those of the slot. Thus, in use, an applied force to the upper portion 1912b pushes it into the slot 1961 formed in the other upper portion 1912a, and on release of the applied force, the ridges interlock to lock the two upper portions 1912a, 1912b together.
In alternative embodiments, ridges are applied to the upper surface of the slot 1961 and upper surface of the upper portion 1912b, in addition to, or instead of, the ridges of the present embodiment.
In alternative apparatuses to those shown in Figures 18 and 19, the apparatus is similar to those of Figure 18 and 19 except that it does not define lines in the base portion, such as lines 1814a, 1815a or 1805 of apparatus 1801. Thus, these alternative apparatuses do have the locking mechanism provided by the ridges and grooves defined on the clipping elements.
In one such alternative embodiment, the apparatus has just two clipping elements having the form of clipping elements 1804a and 1804b of apparatus 1801, and like apparatus 1801 the base portion has clipping elements extending from an upper surface and an adhesive layer on its opposite lower surface. Thus, in use the apparatus is attached to a surface using the adhesive layer and one or more cables or tubes are located in the space between it clipping elements, before the two clipping elements are manually pushed together to engage the ridges and grooves of the clipping elements.
Other similar apparatuses having just two clipping elements are envisaged in which the ridges and grooves are arranged in an alternative manner, for example as provided on apparatus 1901 of Figure 19.
Figure 20 Another alternative apparatus 2001 embodying the present invention is shown in Figure 20. The apparatus 2001 has a similar structure to those previously described, but differs in the form of its clipping elements. Each of the clipping elements 2004 of apparatus 2001 have a lower portion 2011 that extends perpendicularly from the base portion 2003 and an upper portion 2012 that extends parallel to the base portion 2003 and towards one or two adjacent clipping elements. In the case of the end clipping elements, such as 2004a and 2004e, the upper portion 2012a extends inwards towards the adjacent clipping elements 2004b and 2004d respectively, while the middle clipping elements, such as 2004b, 2004c and 2004d have an upper portion 2012b that extends towards each of two neighbouring clipping elements. Thus, the middle clipping elements have a T-shaped cross-section and the clipping elements 2004a to 2004e define substantially rectangular spaces for receiving one or more cables or tubing.
In the above described embodiments, the base portions are formed of a first member and a second member (such as first member 116 and second member 117 of apparatus 101). However, in simpler alternative embodiments, the base portion is formed of just one member that is integrally formed with the clipping elements. The advantage of the apparatuses formed in this way is that they do not require the expense of materials or manufacture that the second member of the base portion incurs. However, the relatively compliant second member of the base portion of apparatuses such as apparatus loll provide a more assured fixing to slightly uneven surface.
Each of the above described embodiments has a base portion that has a lower surface provided with an adhesive layer, to allow the apparatus to be adhered to a surface. However, alternative embodiments are envisaged that do not have an adhesive layer but require a fastener, such as a pin or nail, to be forced through the base portion and into the surface where the apparatus is to be mounted.

Claims (42)

  1. Claims What we claim is: 1. Apparatus for retaining a cable or tubing, said apparatus comprising a clipping member comprising (i) a base portion having an upper surface and a lower surface and (ii) a plurality of clipping elements attached to and extending from said upper surface of said base portion, said clipping elements comprise two neighbouring clipping elements forming a first pair and a space is provided between said two neighbouring clipping elements for receiving a cable or tubing, wherein said base portion is foldable about a line along which said base portion has a reduced thickness when compared to the thickness of said base portion adjacent to said line, and said line divides a first one of said clipping elements from a second one of said clipping elements.
  2. 2. Apparatus according to claim I wherein said apparatus further comprises an adhesive layer on said lower surface of said base portion.
  3. 3. Apparatus according to claim I or claim 2 wherein said first one and said second one of said clipping elements are in line with a third one of said clipping elements and said first and second ones of said clipping elements provide a first space for receiving a cable and said second and third ones of said clipping elements provide a second space for receiving a cable.
  4. 4. Apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein said base portion comprises a first member and a second member, said first member defining said upper surface, said first member and said clipping elements being formed from a first type of material, and said second member comprising a second type of material that is more compliant than said first type of material.
  5. 5. Apparatus according to claim 4 wherein said second material is a resilient foam material.
  6. 6. Apparatus according to any one of claims I to 5, wherein said line defines a slit in said first member, such that along said line said base portion comprises said second member only.
  7. 7. Apparatus according to claim 6, wherein said apparatus defines a second line about which said base portion is foldable and said second line defines a groove in said first member, such that said first member has reduced thickness along said second line when compared to the thickness of said first member adjacent to said line.
  8. 8. Apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein said line defines a groove in said first member, such that said first member has reduced thickness along said line when compared to the thickness of said first member adjacent to said line.
  9. 9. Apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein said clipping elements are arranged into rows and columns, and said clipping elements are configured to co-operate with adjacent clipping elements on the same row to provide a mechanism for retaining a cable.
  10. 10. Apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein each one of said first pair of clipping elements has (i) a lower portion extending away from the base portion and away from the other clipping element of said first pair and (ii) an upper portion extending from the lower portion towards said other clipping element of said first pair.
  11. 11. Apparatus according to claim 10, wherein said first pair of clipping elements define a substantially triangular space for receiving a cable.
  12. 12. Apparatus according to claim 10 or claim 11, wherein one of said first and second clipping elements and a neighbouring third clipping element define a second pair of clipping elements and each one of said second pair has (i) a lower portion extending away from the base portion and towards the other clipping element of said second pair and (ii) an upper portion extending from the lower portion away from said other clipping element of said second pair.
  13. 13. Apparatus according to claim 12, wherein said second pair of clipping elements define a substantially triangular space for receiving a cable.
  14. 14. Apparatus according to claim 4 or any preceding claim when dependent upon claim 4, wherein said apparatus comprises a photoluminescent material.
  15. 15. Apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein said first clipping element defines a first set of ridges and said second clipping element defines a second set of ridges configured to mechanically interlock with said first set when said first and second sets of ridges are pushed into contact with each other.
  16. 16. A method of manufacturing apparatus for retaining a cable or tubing, comprising the steps of: producing a clipping member comprising (i) a base portion having an upper surface and a lower surface and (ii) a plurality of clipping elements attached to and extending from said upper surface of said base portion, said clipping elements having a space between adjacent pairs of said clipping elements for receiving a cable or tubing; and reducing the thickness of said base portion along a line to facilitate folding of said base portion about said line, said line being positioned so that a first one of said clipping elements is positioned to one side of said line and a second one of said clipping elements is positioned to the other side of said line.
  17. 17. A method of manufacturing according to claim 16, s wherein said step of producing a clipping member comprises moulding a plastics material to form a first member, that defines said upper surface of said base portion, and said clipping elements.
  18. 18. A method of manufacturing according to claim 17, wherein said method comprises attaching said first member to a second member formed of a material that is more easily deformed that said plastics material of said first memberI
  19. 19. A method of manufacturing according to claim 18, wherein said second member is formed of a viscoeleastic material.
  20. 20. A method of manufacturing according to claim 18 or claim 19, wherein said second member is formed from a piece of double sided adhesive tape.
  21. 21. A method of manufacturing according to any one of claims 18 to 20, wherein said second member comprises a resilient foam material.
  22. 22. A method of manufacturing apparatus according to any one of claims 17 to 21 wherein said step of moulding comprises extruding said plastics material, and said line of reduced thickness of said base portion is formed during said extruding of said plastics material.
  23. 23. A method of manufacturing apparatus according to claim 22 wherein said step of extruding said plastics material generates an extruded piece and said step of producing a clipping member comprises cutting said extruded piece across its width to produce a plurality of fingers and attaching said fingers to one side of a second member such that the clipping element of one of said fingers are aligned with the clipping elements of an adjacent one of said fingers.
  24. 24. A method of manufacturing apparatus according to any one of claims 17 to 23, wherein said step of moulding comprises injection moulding said plastics material, and said line of reduced thickness of said base portion is formed during said moulding of said plastics material.
  25. 25. A method of manufacturing apparatus according to any one of claims 16 to 24, wherein said clipping elements are arranged in pairs such that each clipping elements has: (i) a lower portion extending away from the first member and away from the other clipping element of said pair; and (ii) an upper portion extending from the lower portion towards said other clipping of said pair.
  26. 26. Apparatus for retaining a cable or tubing, said apparatus comprising a clipping member formed of a plastics material and comprising (i) a base portion having an upper surface and a lower surface and (ii) a plurality of clipping elements attached to and extending from said upper surface of said base portion, said clipping elements having a space between adjacent pairs of said clipping elements for receiving a cable or tubing, wherein each one of a first pair of said clipping elements has (i) a lower portion extending away from the base portion and away from the other clipping element of said pair and (ii) an upper portion extending from the lower portion towards said other clipping element of said first pair, and one of said first pair of clipping elements and a neighbouring third clipping element define a second pair of clipping elements and each one of said second pair has (iii) a lower portion extending away from the base portion and towards the other clipping element of said second pair and (iv) an upper portion extending from the lower portion away from said other clipping element of said second pair.
  27. 27. Apparatus according to claim 26, wherein said apparatus further comprises an adhesive layer on said lower surface of said base portion.
  28. 28. Apparatus according to claim 26 or claim 27 wherein said base portion comprises a first member and a second member, said first member defining said upper surface, said first member and said clipping elements being formed from a first type of material, and said second member comprising a second type of material that is more compliant than said first type of material.
  29. 29. Apparatus according to claim 28 wherein said second material is a resilient foam material.
  30. 30. Apparatus according to any one of claims 26 to 29, wherein said clipping elements are arranged into rows and columns, and said clipping elements are configured to co-operate with adjacent clipping elements on the same row to provide a mechanism for retaining a cable.
  31. 31. Apparatus according to any one of claims 26 to 30, wherein said first pair of clipping elements define a substantially triangular space for receiving a cable.
  32. 32. Apparatus according to any one of claims 26 to 31, wherein said second pair of clipping elements define a substantially triangular space for receiving a cable.
  33. 33. Apparatus according to any one of claims 26 to 32, wherein said apparatus comprises a photoluminescent material.
  34. 34. Apparatus for retaining a cable or tubing, said apparatus comprising: a clipping member comprising (i) a base portion having an upper s surface and a lower surface and (ii) a first clipping element and a second clipping element, said clipping elements attached to and extending from said upper surface of said base portion to provide a space between said clipping elements for receiving a cable or tubing; and an adhesive layer provided on said lower surface, wherein said first clipping element defines a first set of ridges and said second clipping element defines a second set of ridges configured to mechanically interlock with said first set of ridges when said first and second sets of ridges are pushed into contact with each other.
  35. 35. Apparatus according to claim 34 wherein said base portion comprises a first member and a second member, said first member defining said upper surface, said first member and said clipping elements being formed from a first type of material, and said second member comprising a second type of material that is more compliant than said first type of material.
  36. 36. Apparatus according to claim 35 wherein said second material is a resilient foam material.
  37. 37. Apparatus according to any one of claims 34 to 36, wherein said clipping elements are arranged into rows and columns, and said clipping elements are configured to co-operate with adjacent clipping elements on the same row to provide a mechanism for retaining a cable.
  38. 38. Apparatus according to any one of claims 34 to 37, wherein said first pair of clipping elements define a substantially triangular space for receiving a cable.
  39. 39. Apparatus according to any one of claims 34 to 38, wherein said second pair of clipping elements define a substantially triangular space for receiving a cable.
  40. 40. Apparatus according to any one of claims 34 to 39, wherein said apparatus comprises a photoluminescent material.
  41. 41. Apparatus for retaining a cable or tubing as described herein with reference to the accompanying figures.
  42. 42. A method of manufacturing apparatus for retaining a cable or tubing as described herein with reference to the accompanying figures.Claims 1. Apparatus for retaining a cable or tubing, said apparatus comprising (i) a base portion having an upper surface and a lower surface and (ii) a plurality of clipping elements attached to and extending from said upper surface of said base portion, a first space for receiving a cable or tubing is defined between two adjacent clipping elements forming a first pair, and a second space for receiving a cable or tubing is defined between two adjacent clipping elements forming a second pair, wherein: said first space is substantially triangular or heart shaped; each clipping element of said first pair has (i) a lower portion extending away from the base portion and away from the other clipping element of said first pair and (ii) an upper portion extending from the lower portion towards said other clipping element of said first pair; one of said first pair of clipping elements and a third clipping element define said second pair of clipping elements and each clipping element of said second pair has (a) a lower portion extending away from the base portion and *"E 20 towards the other clipping element of said second pair and (b) an upper portion extending from the lower portion away from said other clipping element of said second pair; and said base portion is foldable about a line along which said base portion has a reduced thickness when compared to the thickness of said base portion adjacent to said line, and said line passes between a first one of said clipping elements and a second one of said clipping elements.2. Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said apparatus further comprises an adhesive layer on said lower surface of said base portion.3. Apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein said base portion comprises a first member and a second member, said first member defining said upper surface, said first member and said clipping elements being formed from a first type of material, and said second member s comprising a second type of material that is more easily deformed than said first type of material.4. Apparatus according to claim 3 wherein said second material is a resilient foam material.5. Apparatus according to claim 3 or claim 4 wherein said second material is a viscoelastic material.6. Apparatus according to any one of claim 3 to 5, wherein said line :? 15 defines a slit in said first member, such that along said line said base portion comprises said second member only.7. Apparatus according to claim 6, wherein said apparatus defines a second line about which said base portion is foldable and said second line defines a groove in said first member, such that said first member has reduced * thickness along said second line when compared. to the thickness of said first member adjacent to said line.8. Apparatus according to any one of claim 3 to 5, wherein said line defines a groove in said first member, such that said first member has reduced thickness along said line when compared to the thickness of said first member adjacent to said line.9. Apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein said clipping elements are arranged into rows and columns, and said clipping elements are configured to co-operate with adjacent clipping elements on the same row to provide a mechanism for retaining a cable.10. Apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein said second pair of clipping elements define a substantially triangular space for receiving a cable.11. Apparatus according to claim 3 or any preceding claim when dependent upon claim 3, wherein said apparatus comprises a photoluminescent material.12. Apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein said* first clipping element defines a first set of ridges and said second clipping element defines a second set of ridges configured to mechanically interlock with said first set when said first and second sets of ridges are pushed into contact with each other.13. A method of manufacturing apparatus for retaining a cable or tubing, comprising the steps of: ".: 20 producing a clipping member comprising (i) a base portion having an upper surface and a lower surface and (ii) a plurality of clipping elements attached to and extending from said upper surface of said base portion, said clipping elements having a space between adjacent pairs of said clipping elements for receiving a cable or tubing; and reducing the thickness of said base portion along a line to facilitate folding of said base portion about said line, said line being positioned so that a first one of said clipping elements is positioned to one side of said line and a second one of said clipping elements is positioned to the other side of said line, wherein said clipping member is formed such that: each clipping element of a first pair of clipping elements has (i) a lower portion extending away from the base portion and away from the other clipping element of said first pair and (ii) an upper portion extending from the lower portion towards said other clipping element of said first pair; said first space is substantially triangular or heart shaped; one of said first pair of clipping elements and a third clipping element define said second pair of clipping elements and each clipping element of said second pair has (a) a lower portion extending away from the base portion and towards the other clipping element of said second pair and (b) an upper portion extending from the lower portion away from said other clipping element of said second pair.14. A méthbd of manufacturing according to claiml3, wherein said step of producing a clipping member comprises moulding a plastics material to form a first member, that defines said upper surface of said base portion and said clipping elements. * .15. A method of manufacturing according to claiml4, wherein said i..: method comprises attaching said first member to a second member formed of a material that is more easily deformed than said plastics material of said first * 20 member. * * * * ** **.16. A method of manufacturing according to claim 15, wherein said second member is formed of a viscoeleastic material.17. A method of manufacturing according to claim 15 or claim 16, wherein said second member is formed from a piece of double sided adhesive tape.18. A method of manufacturing according to any one of claims 15 to 17, wherein said second member comprises a resilient foam material.19. A method of manufacturing apparatus according to any one of claims 14 to 18 wherein said step of moulding comprises extruding said plastics material, and said line of reduced thickness of said base portion is formed during said extruding of said plastics material.20. A method of manufacturing apparatus according to claim 19 wherein said step of extruding said plastics material generates an extruded piece and said step of producing a clipping member comprises cutting said extruded piece across its width to produce a plurality of fingers and attaching said fingers to one side of a second member such that the clipping element of one of said fingers are aligned with the clipping elements of an adjacent one of said fingers.21. A method of manufacturing apparatus according to any one of claims 14 to 20, wherein said step of moulding comprises injection moulding said plastics material, and said line of reduced thickness of said base portion is formed during said moulding of said plastics material.S. S S 22. Apparatus for retaining a cable or tubing as described herein with *. 20 reference to the accompanying figures.S S*SS23. A method of manufacturing apparatus for retaining a cable or tubing as described herein with reference to the accompanying figures.
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WO2019014723A1 (en) * 2017-07-21 2019-01-24 Kordklip Pty Ltd A clipping article for securing or clipping a cord
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US20110108699A1 (en) * 2009-10-23 2011-05-12 Illinois Tool Works Inc. Cable fastening device
US9310013B2 (en) * 2009-10-23 2016-04-12 Illinois Tool Works Inc. Cable fastening device
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