ANCHOR AND METHOD OF OPERATING THE SAME RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of provisional U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 60/899,948 titled ANCHOR AND METHOD OF OPERATING THE SAME, filed February 7, 2007 and is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 11/371,848 titled ANCHOR AND METHOD OF OPERATING THE SAME, filed March 9, 2006, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates to anchors and, more particularly, to an anchor system for securing elements to a structure and to a method for operating the same.

SUMMARY

[0003] The present invention can provide an anchor engageable in a structure. The anchor can include a sleeve having an outer surface, a first end, a second end and an opening at the second end. The anchor can also include an internal chamber in the sleeve adjacent to the second end in communication with the opening. The anchor can also include a cover over the opening at the second end. An adhesive supported in the internal chamber can be released from the sleeve upon compressing the second end of the sleeve.

[0004] The present invention can also provide an anchor engageable in a structure. The anchor can include a sleeve having an outer surface, a first end, a second end and a channel portion formed by the outer surface of the sleeve. The channel portion of the sleeve can have a reduced outer diameter. The anchor can include an opening at the channel portion of the sleeve and an internal chamber in the sleeve adjacent to the second end in communication with the opening. An adhesive supported in the internal chamber can be released from the sleeve through the opening upon compressing the second end of the sleeve.

[0005] The present invention can also provide a method of securing an anchor to a structure. The method can include inserting an end of an anchor into an aperture in the structure such that at least a portion of the outer surface of the anchor system contacts the structure. The method

can include driving the anchor into the aperture. As the anchor moves through the aperture, the end of the anchor can contact a bottom of the aperture. Compressing the end of the anchor against the bottom of the aperture can thereby release an adhesive housed within the anchor. Forcing the adhesive out of the anchor can thereby secure the anchor to the structure with the adhesive.

[0006] Other aspects of the invention will become apparent by consideration of the detailed description and accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] Fig. IA is a cross-sectional view of an anchor system supported in a structure according to some embodiments of the present invention and including a pin supported in a first position.

[0008] Fig. IB is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the anchor system shown in Fig. IA.

[0009] Fig. 2 A is a cross-sectional view of the anchor system shown in Fig. IA with the pin supported in a second position.

[0010] Fig. 2B is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the anchor system shown in Fig. 2A.

[0011] Fig. 3 A is a cross-sectional view of the anchor system shown in Fig. IA with the pin supported in a third position.

[0012] Fig. 3B is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the anchor system shown in Fig. 3A.

[0013] Fig. 4 is an exploded side view of the anchor system shown in Fig. IA.

[0014] Fig. 5 is a front perspective view of an anchor system according to an alternate embodiment of the present invention.

[0015] Fig. 6 is a rear perspective view of the anchor system shown in Fig. 5.

[0016] Fig. 7 is a front view of the anchor system shown in Fig. 5.

[0017] Fig. 8 is a side view of the anchor system shown in Fig. 5.

[0018] Fig. 9 is a front perspective view of an anchor system according to another alternate embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] Fig. 10 is a top view of the anchor system shown in Fig. 9.

[0020] Fig. 11 is a rear perspective view of the anchor system shown in Fig. 9.

[0021] Fig. 12 is a side view of the anchor system shown in Fig. 9.

[0022] Fig. 13 is a front view of the anchor system shown in Fig. 9.

[0023] Fig. 14 is a front perspective view of an anchor system according to another alternate embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Fig. 15 is a rear perspective view of the anchor system shown in Fig. 14.

[0025] Fig. 16 is a top view of the anchor system shown in Fig. 14.

[0026] Fig. 17 is a bottom perspective view of the anchor system shown in Fig. 14.

[0027] Fig. 18 is a side view of the anchor system shown in Fig. 14.

[0028] Fig. 19 is a front view of the anchor system shown in Fig. 14.

[0029] Fig. 20 is an exploded front perspective view of the anchor system according to another alternate embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Fig. 21 is an exploded rear perspective view of the anchor system shown in Fig. 20.

[0031] Fig. 22 is a front view of the anchor system shown in Fig. 20.

[0032] Fig. 23 is a side view of the anchor system shown in Fig. 20.

[0033] Fig. 24 is a front perspective view of an anchor system according to another alternate embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Fig. 25 is a rear perspective view of the anchor system shown in Fig. 24.

[0035] Fig. 26 is a side view of the anchor system shown in Fig. 24.

[0036] Fig. 27 is a front view of the anchor system shown in Fig. 24.

[0037] Fig. 28 is front perspective view of an anchor system according to another alternate embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Fig. 29 is a rear perspective view of the anchor system shown in Fig. 28.

[0039] Fig. 30 is a side view of the anchor system shown in Fig. 28.

[0040] Fig. 31 is a front view of the anchor system shown in Fig. 28.

[0041] Fig. 32 is a side view of an anchor system according to another alternate embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Fig. 33 is a front view of the anchor system shown in Fig. 32.

[0043] Fig. 34 is a cross-sectional view of the anchor system shown in Fig. 32 taken along line 34—34.

[0044] Fig. 35 is a top view of the anchor system shown in Fig. 32.

[0045] Fig. 36 is a cross-sectional view of the anchor system shown in Fig. 33 taken along line 36—36.

[0046] Fig. 37 is a cross-sectional view of the anchor system shown in Fig. 33 taken along line 37—37.

[0047] Fig. 38 is an exploded perspective view of the anchor system shown in Fig. 32.

[0048] Fig. 39 is a perspective view of an anchor system according to another alternate embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] Fig. 40 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of an anchor system according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0050] Fig. 41 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the anchor system shown in Fig. 40 including an adhesive chamber containing a volume of an adhesive.

[0051] Fig. 42 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the anchor system shown in Fig. 40 including a cap for sealing the adhesive chamber.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0052] Before any embodiments of the invention are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the following drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of "including," "comprising," and "having" and variations thereof herein is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items.

[0053] Unless specified or limited otherwise, the terms "mounted," "connected," "supported," and "coupled" and variations thereof are used broadly and encompass both direct and indirect mountings, connections, supports, and couplings. Further, "connected" and "coupled" are not restricted to physical or mechanical connections or couplings.

[0054] In addition, it is to be understood that phraseology and terminology used herein with reference to device or element orientation (such as, for example, terms like "front," "rear," "top," "bottom," "lower", "up," "down," etc.) are only used to simplify description of the present invention, and do not alone indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a particular orientation. The elements of the present invention can be installed and operated in any orientation desired. In addition, terms such as "first", "second," and "third" are used herein for

purposes of description and are not intended to indicate or imply relative importance or significance.

[0055] Figs. 1A-4 illustrate an anchor system 10 for securing elements, such as, for example, shelves, pictures, clocks and other wall hangings, electrical conduit, pipes, wires, and the like to a structure 12. The anchor system 10 can be installed or used with any man-made structure 12, such as, for example, homes, commercial buildings, fences, garages, poles, frames, gutters, railings, and the like. The anchor system 10 can also be installed in caves, mines, trees, and other naturally-occurring structures 12.

[0056] The anchor system 10 can include a first anchor member or sleeve 14, an adhesive 16 supported in the sleeve 14, and a second anchor member or pin 18. In the illustrated embodiment of Figs. 1A-4, the sleeve 14 includes a first end 20, a second end 22, and a length 24 extending between the first and second ends 20, 22. In some embodiments, the sleeve 14 defines an axis 25 extending between the first and second ends 20, 22.

[0057] In some embodiments, such as the illustrated embodiment of Figs. 1A-4, the first end 20 includes an outwardly extending mounting flange 26. In such embodiments, the mounting flange 26 is engageable with a structure 12 to orient the anchor system 10 with respect to the structure 12. More specifically, the mounting flange 26 is engageable with the structure 12 to allow only a desired portion of the anchor system (e.g., the second end 22 of the sleeve 14) to be moved into a bore in the structure 12 and to prevent the entire anchor system 10 from falling into the bore.

[0058] The first end 20 can also include an outwardly extending fastener 30 for supporting an element on the structure 12. In the illustrated embodiment of Figs. 1A-4, the fastener 30 has a generally circular cross-sectional shape and includes a circumferential groove 32 positioned between the mounting flange 26 and a radially outwardly extending lip 36. hi this embodiment, elements, such as, for example, wires, string, twine, and the like, can be wound around the fastener 30 to secure additional elements (e.g., pictures and other wall hangings) to the structure 12. In other embodiments, other elements can slidingly and/or lockingly engage the mounting flange 26, the outwardly extending lip 36, and/or the circumferential groove 36.

[0059] The sleeve 14 also includes an outer surface 40 extending between the first end 20 and the second end 22. In the illustrated embodiment of Figs. 1A-4, the sleeve 14 includes radially outwardly extending first and second collars 42, 44 and defines a channel 46 extending circumferentially around the outer surface 40 and extending axially along the outer surface 40 between the first and second collars 44, 46. In some embodiments, such as the illustrated embodiment of Figs. 1A-4, the channel 46 extends axially along less than the entire length 24 of the outer surface 40 of the sleeve 14. In other embodiments, the channel 46 extends along at least about one-third of the length 24 of the outer surface 40. In still other embodiments, the channel 46 can have other relative lengths and dimensions.

[0060] The first collar 42 is engageable with the structure 12 adjacent to a proximal end of the bore in the structure 12. The second collar 44 is engageable with the structure 12 adjacent to a distal end of the bore in the structure 12 to limit movement of the sleeve 14 relative to the structure 12. IQ some embodiments, such as the illustrated embodiment of Figs. 1A-4, the first and second collars 42, 44 are sized to frictionally engage an inner surface of the bore. In these embodiments, the first and second collars 42, 44 limit movement of the sleeve 14 axially through the bore and limit rotational motion of the sleeve 14 about a longitudinal axis 48 extending through the bore.

[0061] In some embodiments, such as the illustrated embodiment of Figs. 1-4A, the first and second collars 42, 44 extend circumferentially around the outer surface 40 of the sleeve 14, and, as described in greater detail below, limit the flow of adhesive 16 axially along the outer surface 40 of the sleeve 14. In other embodiments, one or both of the first and second collars 42, 44 extend around less than the entire circumference of the outer surface 40 of the sleeve 14.

[0062] As shown in Figs. 1 A-4, in some embodiments, the sleeve 14 can also include protrusions 52 extending outwardly from the outer surface 40 between the first and second collars 42, 44 and extending outwardly into the channel 46. hi these embodiments, the protrusions 42, 44 can extend radially outwardly from the outer surface 40 of the sleeve 14 to frictionally engage the inner surface of the bore in the structure 12 to limit rotational movement of the sleeve 14 about the longitudinal axis 48 of the bore and/or to limit axial movement of the sleeve 14 axially through the bore along the longitudinal axis 48.

[0063] Alternatively, in some embodiments, the protrusions 52 can extend outwardly from the outer surface 40 a distance less than the radial extent of the first collar 42 and/or the second collar 44. In these embodiments, the protrusions 52 are prevented from engaging the inner surface of the bore in the structure 12 to reduce resistance to movement of the sleeve 14 axially through the bore and/or to reduce resistance to rotational movement of the sleeve 14 in the bore.

[0064] In the illustrated embodiment of Figs. 1A-4, the sleeve 14 also includes an opening 56 extending through the first end 20 and opening into an interior space 58 in the sleeve 14. In these embodiments, the interior space 58 can extend axially through the sleeve 14 between the first and second ends 20, 22 of the sleeve 14. In other embodiments, the interior space 58 can extend substantially less than the entire axial length 24 of the sleeve 14 and can stop short of the second end 22.

[0065] As shown in Figs. 1 A-4, apertures 60 can extend radially outwardly through the outer surface 40 of the sleeve 14 between the interior space 58 and the channel 46. In the illustrated embodiment, two apertures 60 extend outwardly through the outer surface 40 of the sleeve 14, are spaced radially around the sleeve 14 at intervals of about 180 degrees, and are positioned adjacent to the second end of the sleeve 14. In other embodiments, one, three, or more apertures 60 can extend outwardly through the outer surface 40 of the sleeve 14 and these apertures 60 can be spaced at regular or irregular intervals radially around the sleeve 14. Alternatively or in addition, the apertures 60 can be spaced adjacent to the first end 20 of the sleeve 14 or at any other position along the length 24 of the sleeve 14 to communicate with the channel 46.

[0066] The adhesive 16 can be supported in the interior 58 of the sleeve 14 adjacent to the second end 22 of the sleeve 14. hi some embodiments, such as the illustrated embodiment of Figs. 1 A-4, the adhesive 16 can be housed or at least partially housed in a pouch, a bag, or other storage capsule 64. hi these embodiments, the sleeve 14 can include a bur or protrusion 66 extending into the interior space 58 and operable to puncture the capsule 64.

[0067] In some embodiments, the adhesive 16 can be an epoxy. hi other embodiments, other adhesives, such as, for example, epoxy hybrids, resorcinol formaldehyde, phenol resorcinol formaldehyde, melamine formaldehyde, urea formaldehyde, phenolics, modified phenolics, polyaromatic high-temperature resins, polyesters, vinyl esters, polyurethanes,

cyanoacrylates, modified acrylics, moisture-cure isocyantes, UV-cure cyanoacrylates, silicones, UV-cure silicones, acrylics, UV-acrylics, solvent-based thermoplastic cements, and combinations of such elements can also or alternately be used. In still other embodiments, other adhesive materials can also or alternately be used. As used herein and in the appended claims, the term "adhesive" includes cohesive and other bonding elements, and mixtures of bonding elements and cohesives.

[0068] The pin 18 includes a first end 68 and a second end 70. In the illustrated embodiment, the pin 18 has a substantially circular cross-sectional shape extending between the first and second ends 68, 70. hi other embodiments, the pin 18 can have any other cross- sectional shape desired, such as, for example, square, triangular, rectangular, trapezoidal, or any other polygonal shape, oval, irregular, and the like.

[0069] In the illustrated embodiment of Figs. 1A-4, the second end 70 of the pin 18 has a substantially smooth outer surface 72, is movable axially through the interior space 58, and is rotatable about the longitudinal axis 48 relative to the sleeve 14. As shown in Figs. 1 A-4, the first end 68 of the pin 18 can include radially outwardly extending protrusions 78 spaced along at least a portion of the first end 68 and extending radially outwardly for frictionally engaging the sleeve 14. In other embodiments, the protrusions 78 can be spaced along the entire length or substantially the entire length of the pin 18. In still other embodiments, the pin 18 can have a substantially smooth outer surface 72 extending between the first and second ends 68, 70. In these and other embodiments, the pin 18 can have a tapered and radially inwardly extending cross-sectional shape so that the first end 68 has a first cross-sectional area and the second end 70 has a second, smaller cross-sectional area.

[0070] hi embodiments such as the illustrated embodiment of Figs. 1 A-4 having a pin 18 with outwardly extending protrusions 78, the pin 18 can be supported in the sleeve 14 in a first position (shown in Figs. IA and IB), in which the outwardly extending protrusions 78 engage the sleeve 14 and limit axial movement of the pin 18 and rotational movement of the pin 18 relative to the sleeve 14. To simplify instillation, the pin 18 can be maintained in the first position until an operator positions the anchor system 10 in a structure 12 in a desired orientation. The operator can then force the pin 18 inwardly into the interior 58 of the sleeve 14

and toward a second position (shown in Figs. 2A and 2B), in which the pin 18 moves toward the second end 22 of the sleeve 14 forcing the adhesive 16 rearwardly toward the second end 22 of the sleeve 14 and radially outwardly through the apertures 60 into the channel 46. The operator can then continue to move the pin 18 rearwardly toward a third position (shown in Figs. 3 A and 3B), in which the first end 68 of the pin 18 is substantially inline or flush with the first end 20 of the sleeve 14, causing the adhesive 16 to substantially fill the channel 46.

[0071] In operation, an operator forms a bore in a structure 12 and inserts the sleeve 14 into the bore so that the collars 42, 44 and/or the protrusions 52 frictionally engage the structure 12, preventing the sleeve 14 from rotating about the longitudinal axis 48 relative to the structure 12 and preventing the sleeve 14 from moving axially through the bore. In embodiments having a mounting flange 26, the operator forces the sleeve 14 into the bore until the mounting flange 26 engages an outer surface of the structure 12.

[0072] The operator then inserts the pin 18 and the adhesive 16 into the interior space 58 of the sleeve 14 and forces the pin 18 rearwardly toward the second end 22 of the sleeve 14. Alternatively, in embodiments in which the pin 18 is supported in the sleeve 14 in the first position, the adhesive 16 can be pre-positioned in the interior space 58.

[0073] hi the illustrated embodiment of Figs. 1A-4, the pin 18 is driven into the sleeve 14 with a hammer. In other embodiments, other tools, including drills, screwdrivers, and the like can also or alternately be used to move the pin 18 from the first position toward the third position. In still other embodiments, an operator can move the pin 18 into the sleeve 14 without the assistance of tools.

[0074] In embodiments, such as the illustrated embodiment of Figs. 1 A-4 having an adhesive capsule 64, the pin 18 forces the adhesive capsule 64 rearwardly into engagement with the protrusion 66, which punctures the adhesive capsule 64.

[0075] As shown in Figs. 2A and 2B, continued rearward movement of the pin 18 toward the second position, forces the adhesive 16 radially outwardly through the apertures 60 and into the channel 46. As the pin 18 is moved toward the third position (shown in Figs. 3 A and 3B), the adhesive 16 flows around the protrusions 52 located along the outer surface 40 of the sleeve 14

and substantially fills the channel 46. The adhesive 16 then bonds the sleeve 14 to the structure 12. In some embodiments, at least some of the adhesive 16 remains in the interior space 58 and bonds the pin 18 to the sleeve 14.

[0076] In addition to acting as a plunger and forcing the adhesive 16 rearwardly, in some embodiments, the pin 18 forces the sleeve 14 radially outwardly. In some such embodiments, the protrusions 78 on the outer surface 72 of the pin 18, or alternately, the tapered shape of the pin 18, cause the first end 20 and/or the second end 22 of the sleeve 14 to radially expand and to more firmly engage the inner surface of the bore in the structure 12. In these embodiments, the radial expansion of the sleeve 14 can also form a seal between the first collar 42 and the structure 12 and/or between the second collar 44 and the structure 12 to limit movement of the adhesive 16 and to prevent movement of the adhesive 16 out of the channel 46.

[0077] Figs. 5-8 illustrate an alternate embodiment of an anchor system 110 according to the present invention. The anchor system 110 shown in Figs. 5-8 is similar in many ways to the illustrated embodiment of Figs. 1A-4 described above. Accordingly, with the exception of mutually inconsistent features and elements between the embodiment of Figs. 5-8 and the embodiment of Figs. 1A-4, reference is hereby made to the description above accompanying the embodiment of Figs. 1A-4 for a more complete description of the features and elements (and the alternatives to the features and elements) of the embodiment of Figs. 5-8. Features and elements in the embodiment of Figs. 5-8 corresponding to features and elements in the embodiment of Figs. 1 A-4 are numbered in the 100 series.

[0078] As shown in Figs. 5-8, the fastener 130 is an outwardly extending hook 182 integrally formed with the first end 120 of the sleeve 114. In other embodiments, the hook 182 can be formed separate from and be later secured to the sleeve 114.

[0079] Figs. 9-13 illustrate an alternate embodiment of an anchor system 210 according to the present invention. The anchor system 210 shown in Figs. 9-13 is similar in many ways to the illustrated embodiments of Figs. 1A-8 described above. Accordingly, with the exception of mutually inconsistent features and elements between the embodiment of Figs. 9-13 and the embodiments of Figs. 1A-8, reference is hereby made to the description above accompanying the embodiments of Figs. 1A-8 for a more complete description of the features and elements (and the

alternatives to the features and elements) of the embodiment of Figs. 9-13. Features and elements in the embodiment of Figs. 9-13 corresponding to features and elements in the embodiments of Figs. 1A-8 are numbered in the 200 series.

[0080] As shown in Figs. 9-13, the fastener 230 is an outwardly extending substantially fork- shaped hook 282 integrally formed with the first end 220 of the sleeve 214. In other embodiments, the hook 282 can be formed separate from and be later secured to the sleeve 214.

[0081] In the illustrated embodiment of Figs. 9-13, the fork-shaped hook 282 includes two substantially similarly shaped and sized outwardly extending prongs 284. In other embodiments, the fork-shaped hook 282 can include three, four, or more outwardly extending prongs 284 having similar shapes and sizes, or alternately, having substantially different shapes and sizes.

[0082] Figs. 14-19 illustrate an alternate embodiment of an anchor system 310 according to the present invention. The anchor system 310 shown in Figs. 14-19 is similar in many ways to the illustrated embodiments of Figs. IA- 13 described above. Accordingly, with the exception of mutually inconsistent features and elements between the embodiment of Figs. 14-19 and the embodiments of Figs. 1A-13, reference is hereby made to the description above accompanying the embodiments of Figs. IA- 13 for a more complete description of the features and elements (and the alternatives to the features and elements) of the embodiment of Figs. 14-19. Features and elements in the embodiment of Figs. 14-19 corresponding to features and elements in the embodiments of Figs. 1A-13 are numbered in the 300 series.

[0083] As shown in Figs. 14-19, the fastener 330 includes an outwardly and upwardly extending hook 382 integrally formed with the first end 320 of the sleeve 314. In other embodiments, the hook 382 can be formed separate from and be later secured to the sleeve 314.

[0084] In the illustrated embodiment of Figs. 14-19, the fork-shaped hook 382 includes two substantially similarly shaped and sized outwardly extending prongs 384. In other embodiments, the fork-shaped hook 382 can include three, four, or more outwardly extending prongs 384 having similar shapes and sizes, or alternately, having substantially different shapes and sizes.

[0085] Figs. 20-23 illustrate an alternate embodiment of an anchor system 410 according to the present invention. The anchor system 410 shown in Figs. 20-23 is similar in many ways to the illustrated embodiments of Figs. IA- 19 described above. Accordingly, with the exception of mutually inconsistent features and elements between the embodiment of Figs. 20-23 and the embodiments of Figs. IA- 19, reference is hereby made to the description above accompanying the embodiments of Figs. 1 A-19 for a more complete description of the features and elements (and the alternatives to the features and elements) of the embodiment of Figs. 20-23. Features and elements in the embodiment of Figs. 20-23 corresponding to features and elements in the embodiments of Figs. 1A-19 are numbered in the 400 series.

[0086] As shown in Figs. 20-23, the fastener 430 includes an outwardly and upwardly extending hook 482 integrally formed with the first end 420 of the sleeve 414. In other embodiments, the hook 482 can be formed separate from and be later secured to the sleeve 414.

[0087] Figs. 24-27 illustrate an alternate embodiment of an anchor system 510 according to the present invention. The anchor system 510 shown in Figs. 24-27 is similar in many ways to the illustrated embodiments of Figs. 1A-23 described above. Accordingly, with the exception of mutually inconsistent features and elements between the embodiment of Figs. 24-27 and the embodiments of Figs. 1A-23, reference is hereby made to the description above accompanying the embodiments of Figs. 1A-23 for a more complete description of the features and elements (and the alternatives to the features and elements) of the embodiment of Figs. 20-23. Features and elements in the embodiment of Figs. 24-27 corresponding to features and elements in the embodiments of Figs. 1A-23 are numbered in the 500 series.

[0088] As shown in Figs. 24-27, the anchor system 510 includes a first fastener 530 having an outwardly and upwardly extending hook 582 integrally formed with the first end 520 of the sleeve 514 and a second fastener 586 having an outwardly extending ledge 588 for supporting shelves. In other embodiments, the hook 582 and/or the ledge 588 can be formed separate from and be later secured to the sleeve 514.

[0089] Figs. 28-31 illustrate an alternate embodiment of an anchor system 610 according to the present invention. The anchor system 610 shown in Figs. 28-31 is similar in many ways to the illustrated embodiments of Figs. 1A-27 described above. Accordingly, with the exception of

mutually inconsistent features and elements between the embodiment of Figs. 28-31 and the embodiments of Figs. 1 A-27, reference is hereby made to the description above accompanying the embodiments of Figs. 1A-27 for a more complete description of the features and elements (and the alternatives to the features and elements) of the embodiment of Figs. 28-31. Features and elements in the embodiment of Figs. 28-31 corresponding to features and elements in the embodiments of Figs. 1A-27 are numbered in the 600 series.

[0090] As shown in Figs. 28-31, the anchor system 610 includes a first fastener 630 having an outwardly and upwardly extending hook 682 and a second fastener 686 having an outwardly and upwardly extending hook 688 positioned below the hook 682 of the first fastener 630.

[0091] Figs. 32-38 illustrate an alternate embodiment of an anchor system 710 according to the present invention. The anchor system 710 shown in Figs. 32-38 is similar in many ways to the illustrated embodiments of Figs. 1A-31 described above. Accordingly, with the exception of mutually inconsistent features and elements between the embodiment of Figs. 32-38 and the embodiments of Figs. 1A-31, reference is hereby made to the description above accompanying the embodiments of Figs. 1A-31 for a more complete description of the features and elements (and the alternatives to the features and elements) of the embodiment of Figs. 32-38. Features and elements in the embodiment of Figs. 32-38 corresponding to features and elements in the embodiments of Figs. 1A-31 are numbered in the 700 series.

[0092] As shown in Figs. 32-38, the anchor system 710 includes a fastener 730 having a generally arcuate shape and webbing 790 extending between the first end 720 of the sleeve 714 and the rear end if the fastener 730. The fastener 730 is engageable with piping, conduit, and other arcuately shaped elements to support these elements in a structure 12. In some such embodiments, the sleeve 714 and/or the pin 718 can be formed of an electrically insulating material.

[0093] Fig. 39 illustrates an alternate embodiment of an anchor system 810 according to the present invention. The anchor system 810 shown in Fig. 39 is similar in many ways to the illustrated embodiments of Figs. 1A-38 described above. Accordingly, with the exception of mutually inconsistent features and elements between the embodiment of Fig. 39 and the embodiments of Figs. 1A-38, reference is hereby made to the description above accompanying

the embodiments of Figs. 1A-38 for a more complete description of the features and elements (and the alternatives to the features and elements) of the embodiment of Fig. 39. Features and elements in the embodiment of Fig. 39 corresponding to features and elements in the embodiments of Figs. 1A-38 are numbered in the 800 series.

[0094] As shown in Fig. 39, the anchor system 810 includes a first collar 842 positioned adjacent to a first end 820 of the sleeve 814 and a second collar 844 positioned adjacent to a second end 822 of the sleeve 814. In some embodiments, such as the illustrated embodiment of Fig. 39, the first and second collars 842, 844 are deformable to at least partially engage the structure 812 and to prevent movement of adhesive axially beyond the first and second ends 820, 822 of the sleeve 814.

[0095] As shown in Fig. 39, the first and second collars 842, 844 can also include outwardly extending protrusions 888, which are deformable to at least partially engage the structure and to prevent movement of adhesive axially beyond the first and second ends 820, 822 of the sleeve 814. In the illustrated embodiment of Fig. 39, a pair of protrusions 888 extends circumferentially around each of the first and second collars 842, 844 to form a labyrinth seal 890 adjacent to the first and second ends 820, 824 of the sleeve 814.

[0096] hi some embodiments, such as the illustrated embodiment of Fig. 39, the channel 846, or portions of the channel 846, extends helically around the outer surface of the sleeve 814. In these embodiments, the channel 846 can extend across or around outwardly extending protrusions 852 positioned along the outer surface of the sleeve 814.

[0097] Figs. 40-42 illustrate an alternate embodiment of an anchor system 910 according to the present invention. The anchor system 910 shown in Figs. 40-42 is similar in many ways to the illustrated embodiment of Figs. 1A-39 described above. Accordingly, with the exception of mutually inconsistent features and elements between the embodiment of Figs. 40-42 and the embodiment of Figs. 1A-39, reference is hereby made to the description above accompanying the embodiment of Figs. 1A-39 for a more complete description of the features and elements (and the alternatives to the features and elements) of the embodiment of Figs. 40-42. Features and elements in the embodiment of Figs. 40-42 corresponding to features and elements in the embodiment of Figs. 1A-39 are numbered in the 900 series.

[0098] As shown in Figs. 40-42, the anchor system 910 includes an anchor member or sleeve 914 and an adhesive 916 supported in the sleeve 914. In the illustrated embodiment of Figs. 40- 42, the sleeve 914 includes a first end 920 and a second end 922. In some embodiments, the sleeve 914 defines an axis 925 extending between the first and second ends 920, 922.

[0099] Although not shown, the first end 920 of the sleeve 914 can include an outwardly extending mounting flange (e.g., one or more of the mounting flanges described above and/or illustrated in the attached figures), which can be engageable with a structure to orient the anchor system 910 with respect to the structure. Alternatively or in addition, the first end 920 of the sleeve 914 can include an outwardly extending fastener (e.g., one or more of the fasteners described above and/or illustrated in the attached figures) for supporting an element on the structure.

[00100] The sleeve 914 also includes an outer surface 940 extending between the first end 920 and the second end 922. In some embodiments, such as the illustrated embodiment of Figs. 40- 42, the outer surface 940 or a portion of the outer surface is substantially smooth. In other embodiments, the outer surface 940 can include outwardly extending protrusions, can be contoured, and/or can be threaded or partially threaded to grip or engage the structure.

[00101] In the illustrated embodiment of Figs. 40-42, the sleeve 914 also includes an internal chamber 980 located adjacent to the second end 922. hi other embodiments, the internal chamber 980 can be located in other locations along or within the sleeve 914 and can include one or more channels communicating with the second end 922 of the sleeve 914. Alternatively or in addition, the chamber 980 can include one or more channels communicating with the outer surface 940 of the sleeve 914.

[00102] As shown in Figs. 40-42, the internal chamber 980 can contain a quantity of an adhesive 916. hi some embodiments, the adhesive 916 is directed into the chamber 980 through an opening 982 in the second end 922 of the sleeve 914. A cap or cover 984 can then be secured to the sleeve 914 to close the opening 982. In other embodiments, the cover 984 over the opening 982 can be provided by closing the second end 922 of the sleeve 914 on itself. For example, the cover 984 can be provided by crimping, pinching or otherwise deforming the

second end 922 of the sleeve 914 or by welding the second end 922 of the sleeve 914 to cover the opening 982.

[00103] In other embodiments, the chamber 980 can be separately formed and can include an outer wall. In these embodiments, the adhesive 916 can be added to the chamber 980. The pre- filled chamber 980 can then be secured to or integrally formed with the sleeve 914. hi still other embodiments, the adhesive 916 can be housed or at least partially housed in a pouch, a bag, or other storage capsule, which can be integrally formed with or supported in the sleeve 914.

[00104] All or a portion of the anchor system 910, including the outer surface 940 and the cover 984 can be coated with a material such as a sealant prevent the ingress of moisture into the chamber 980. This can prevent moisture from interfering with the adhesive 916 within the chamber 980 and can help to increase the shelf-life of the anchor system 910. The coating can be applied by various methods, including, for example, by sputter-coating.

[00105] In some embodiments, the adhesive 916 can be an epoxy. In other embodiments, other adhesives, such as, for example, epoxy hybrids, resorcinol formaldehyde, phenol resorcinol formaldehyde, melamine formaldehyde, urea formaldehyde, phenolics, modified phenolics, polyaromatic high-temperature resins, polyesters, vinyl esters, polyurethanes, cyanoacrylates, modified acrylics, moisture-cure isocyantes, UV-cure cyanoacrylates, silicones, UV-cure silicones, acrylics, UV-acrylics, solvent-based thermoplastic cements, and combinations of such elements can also or alternately be used, hi still other embodiments, other adhesive materials can also or alternately be used. As used herein and in the appended claims, the term "adhesive" includes cohesive and other bonding elements, and mixtures of bonding elements and cohesives.

[00106] In operation, the anchor system 910 can be inserted into an aperture in a structure such that at least a portion of the outer surface 940 of the sleeve 914 contacts the structure. An operator can then drive the anchor system 910 into the aperture using a hammer, a screwdriver, an electric screwdriver, a nail gun, a drill, and the like. As the anchor system 910 moves through the aperture, the second end 922 of the sleeve 914 can contact a bottom of the aperture, compressing the second end of the sleeve 914 and forcing the adhesive out of the chamber 980 and out of the sleeve 914 through the opening 982 in the second end 922. Alternatively or in

addition, the adhesive 916 can be forced out of the chamber 980 and out of the sleeve 914 through other openings which can be formed along the length of the sleeve 914. The adhesive 916 can then secure the anchor system 910 to the structure.

[00107] The embodiments described above and illustrated in the figures are presented by way of example only and are not intended as a limitation upon the concepts and principles of the present invention. As such, it will be appreciated by one having ordinary skill in the art that various changes are possible. For example, various aspects of the present invention are described above as having a circular cross-sectional shape or as having elements positioned radially outwardly. It should be noted that such constructions are only presented by way of example, and are not intended to be limiting regarding cross-sectional shape of the sleeve 14, the pin 18, the adhesive 16, or the other elements of the anchor system 10.

[00108] hi addition, the various embodiments of the present invention are described above as including a sleeve 14, 114, 214, 314, 414, 514, 714, 814, 914. It should be noted that that the sleeves 14, 114, 214, 314, 414, 514, 714, 814, 914 can have a substantially hollow construction, a partially hollow construction, or alternatively, the sleeves 14, 114, 214, 314, 414, 514, 714, 814, 914 or portions of the sleeves 14, 114, 214, 314, 414, 514, 714, 814, 914 of the present invention can be have a substantially solid construction.