OUTDOOR ELECTRICAL GUTTER

FIELD

This invention relates to electrical raceways and more particularly relates to an improved outdoor electrical gutter, which may be used for line voltage and low voltage wiring.

BACKGROUND

Solar power systems are installed outdoors and require routing and wire management of wiring for both power and low voltage signals. Other electrical components are also installed outdoors and require routing and wire management for power and signal wiring. A challenge for outdoor equipment is to protect the wiring from rain, snow, ice, wind, heat, sunlight etc. A lot of existing solutions have drawbacks and limitations.

SUMMARY

An electrical gutter includes a first side configured as a back side and a second side coupled to the first side at a first corner. The second side is configured as a bottom side. The electrical gutter includes a third side coupled to the first side at a second corner and a fourth side couplable to the second side and the third side at an edge of the second side and of the third side opposite the first corner and the second corner. The electrical gutter includes an end piece coupled to each of two ends of the sides. Each of the two end pieces include an endcap or a joint section. The joint section is configured to connect to an additional electrical gutter. The electrical gutter includes two or more weep holes and a liquid channeling system configured to channel liquid to the two or more weep holes. The channeling system includes one or more channels along joints between the sides and the end pieces.

Another electrical gutter includes a first side configured as a back side. The first side includes one or more anchor openings each configured for an anchor to connect the first side to a mounting surface. The electrical gutter includes a second side coupled to the first side at a first corner where the second side is configured as a bottom side, a third side coupled to the first side at a second corner, and a fourth side couplable to the second side and the third side at an edge of the second side and of the third side opposite the first corner and the second corner. The electrical gutter includes a liquid channeling system configured to channel liquid away from the one or more anchor openings.

Another electrical gutter includes a first side configured as a back side where the first side includes one or more anchor openings each configured for an anchor to connect the first side to a mounting surface, a second side coupled to the first side at a first corner where the second side is configured as a bottom side, a third side coupled to the first side at a second corner, and a fourth side couplable to the second side and the third side at an edge of the second side and of the third side opposite the first corner and the second corner. The electrical gutter includes an end piece coupled to each of two ends of the sides where each of the two end pieces are an endcap or a joint section and the joint section is configured to connect to an additional electrical gutter. The electrical gutter includes two or more weep holes and a liquid channeling system configured to channel liquid away from the one or more anchor openings and to the two or more weep holes. The channeling system includes one or more channels along joints between the sides and the end pieces, and one or more sealants on an exterior surface of the first side positioned to contact the mounting surface with the anchors securing the first side to the mounting surface. The one or more sealants are positioned to direct liquid between the first side and the mounting surface away from the one or more anchor openings.

Another electrical gutter includes a first side, a second side coupled to the first side with a first hinge, a third side coupled to the first side with a second hinge, and a fourth side couplable to the second side and the third side at an edge of the second side and of the third side opposite the first hinge and the second hinge. The second side is shaped to rotate via the first hinge between a closed position adjacent the first side and an open position perpendicular to the first side and the third side is shaped to rotate between a closed position adjacent to the second side in the closed position and an open position perpendicular to the first side. The first side or the second side along the first hinge includes a first offset section positioned to allow the second side to lay flat against the first side in the closed position with an exterior side of the second side parallel with an exterior side of the first side. The third side or the first side along the second hinge includes a second offset section positioned to allow the third side to lay flat against the second side in the closed position with an exterior side of the third side parallel to an exterior side of the first side.

Another electrical gutter includes a first section of an electrical gutter with at least three sides, and a second section of the electrical gutter with at least three sides. The electrical gutter includes a joint section positioned between the first section and the second section where the joint section includes an opening in line with an interior section of the first and second sections. The joint section includes a mating portion between each of the at least three sides of the first section and the second section. Each mating portion includes a connection to the first section and a connection to the second section and a channel shaped to divert a liquid away from an interior of the first and second sections. The joint section is configured to retain an edge of the first section adjacent to an edge of the second section forming a joint with the joint section positioned interior to the joint.

Another electrical gutter includes a first side, a second side coupled to the first side, a third side coupled to the first side, and a fourth side couplable to the second side and the third side at an edge of the second side opposite a coupling between the first side to the second side and an edge of the third side opposite a coupling between the first side and the third side. The first side is configured to connect to a vertical surface and the third side is a top side, and the third side includes a planar section and a ridge along an edge adjacent to the first side. The ridge is positioned to be adjacent the vertical surface and has a peak that is located above a plane running through the planar section. The ridge extends away from the first side and is sloped to the planar section to direct a liquid on a top of the third side away from the first side.

Another electrical gutter includes a first side, a second side coupled to the first side, a third side coupled to the first side where the first side is configured to connect to a vertical surface and the third side is a top side, and a shelf with a horizontal section and a back portion positionable adjacent to the first side. The first side includes protrusions or recesses forming a grid, and the back portion of the shelf includes recesses when the first side includes protrusions or the back portion of the shelf includes protrusions when the first side includes recesses. The recesses are spaced and configured to conform to the protrusions.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

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

FIG. 1A is a perspective view illustrating an electrical gutter, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 1B is a front exploded view of the electrical gutter of FIG. 1A, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 1C is a back exploded view of the electrical gutter of FIG. 1A, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 2A is a perspective view illustrating an electrical gutter without a cover and shelving, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 2B is a perspective view illustrating the electrical gutter of FIG. 2A with supports partially deployed, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 2C is a perspective view illustrating the electrical gutter of FIG. 2A with supports fully deployed, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 2D is a side section view illustrating the electrical gutter of FIG. 2A with supports partially deployed, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 2E is a side section view illustrating the electrical gutter of FIG. 2A with supports fully deployed, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 3 is a side section view illustrating the electrical gutter of FIG. 2A in a closed position, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 4 is a front view of a first side of the electrical gutter of FIG. 2A and two section views depicting shelves and the first side, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 5A is a first perspective view illustrating a shelf for the electrical gutters of FIGS. 1A and 2A, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 5B is a second perspective view illustrating a shelf for the electrical gutters of FIGS. 1A and 2A, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 6 is an end view of the electrical gutter of FIG. 1A with shelves and a joint section, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 7A is a perspective view illustrating a switch section to be added to an electrical gutter, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 7B is s side view of the switch of FIG. 7A, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view and two side views of a section of a hinge with a drainage channel for an electrical gutter, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view and two side views of a section of a hinge with a drainage notch for an electrical gutter, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view and two side views of a section of a hinge with an offset for an electrical gutter, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 11 is a side section view of a hinge for an electrical gutter illustrating a channel extending past a midline of a rounded section, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 12A is a first and a second perspective view illustrating a joint section for joining two electrical gutter sections, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 12B is a side section view of the joint sections of FIG. 12A, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 12C is a side section view of an alternate joint section, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 13 is a side section view of an electrical gutter with a ridge against a vertical surface and the electrical gutter angled, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 14 is a partial side section view of an electrical gutter with a ridge against a vertical surface and a top side of the electrical gutter is angled with an end that is rounded, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 15 is a partial side section view of an electrical gutter with a ridge against a vertical surface and a top side of the electrical gutter is angled with a squared end, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 16A is a top perspective view illustrating another electrical gutter, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 16B is a bottom view of the electrical gutter of FIG. 16A, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 16C is a back view of the electrical gutter of FIG. 16A, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 16D is a bottom view of the electrical gutter of FIG. 16A, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 16E is an underside perspective view of a fourth side of the electrical gutter of FIG. 16A, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 16F is a front perspective view of the fourth side of the electrical gutter of FIG. 16A, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 16G is a back perspective view of the fourth side of the electrical gutter of FIG. 16A, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 16H is a cross section A-A′ view of the electrical gutter of FIG. 16A, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 16I is a cross section B-B′ view of the electrical gutter of FIG. 16A, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 16J is an end view of the electrical gutter of FIG. 16A, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 16K is a cross section view of an endcap of the electrical gutter of FIG. 16A, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 16L is a top front perspective view of the electrical gutter of FIG. 16A without a drill zone marking, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 16M is an exploded top front perspective view of the electrical gutter of FIG. 16A without a drill zone marking, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 16N is an exploded top back perspective view of the electrical gutter of FIG. 16A without a drill zone marking, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 16O is a back perspective view of the electrical gutter of FIG. 16A without a drill zone marking and depicting sealants, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 16P is an exploded back view of the electrical gutter of FIG. 16A without a drill zone marking and depicting sealants, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 16Q is a partial top perspective view of the electrical gutter of FIG. 16A, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 16R is a partial top perspective view of the electrical gutter of FIG. 16A cut through bosses for an endcap, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 16S is a partial top perspective view of the electrical gutter of FIG. 16A cut through an end liquid channel, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 16T is a partial top perspective view of the electrical gutter of FIG. 16A with a cut through a corner, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 16U is a top perspective view of an endcap of the electrical gutter of FIG. 16A, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 16V is a back perspective view of an endcap of the electrical gutter of FIG. 16A, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 17 is a perspective view illustrating a joint section for joining two electrical gutter sections where the joint section includes an open side, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 18A is a back perspective view of three sides of an electrical gutter with a DIN rail on the back, according to various embodiments; and

FIG. 18B is a back perspective view of three sides of an electrical gutter with a DIN rail on the back in a different position, according to various embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

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

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

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

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

In some embodiments, the two or more weep holes are located in the second side, the fourth side, and/or the end pieces. In other embodiments, the fourth side includes a channel of the one or more channels positioned interior to an exterior side of the fourth side that extends a length of a side of the fourth side couplable to the third side and extending along ends of the fourth side couplable to the end pieces. In other embodiments, each end piece includes a channel along a seam between the end piece and a side of the first, second, third, and/or fourth sides. The channel of the end piece is shaped to direct liquid to a weep hole of the two or more weep holes.

In some embodiments, each end piece includes a channel of the one or more channels of the liquid channeling system. The channel of the end piece includes a first portion oriented along a joint between the third side and the end piece where the first portion of the channel of the end piece is sloped to direct liquid in the first portion of the channel away from the fourth side and toward the first side. In other embodiments, the end piece includes a second portion of the channel of the end piece connected to the first portion and the second portion is along a joint between the end piece and the first side. In other embodiments, the end piece is a joint section where the joint section includes an open side facing the fourth side.

In some embodiments, the first side includes one or more anchor openings each configured for an anchor to connect the first side to a mounting surface. In the embodiments, the liquid channeling system includes one or more sealants on an exterior surface of the first side positioned to contact the mounting surface with the anchors securing the first side to the mounting surface. The one or more sealants are positioned to direct liquid between the first side and the mounting surface away from the one or more anchor openings. In other embodiments, the mounting surface is vertical, the third side is a top side, and the one or more anchor openings include a plurality of anchor openings where at least two of the plurality of anchor openings are spaced horizontally along the first side. In the embodiments, the one or more sealants include a sealant with a first portion spanning horizontally above the plurality of anchor openings and second and third portions extending downward at ends of the first portion, and/or a sealant above one or more anchor openings of the plurality of anchor openings oriented vertically where the sealant extends downward on either side of the one or more anchor openings oriented vertically.

In other embodiments, the one or more anchor openings include an opening standoff extending away from an exterior side of the first side, and/or the first side includes one or more independent standoffs extending away from the exterior side of the first side. The opening standoffs and the independent standoffs extend away from the first side an amount less than or equal to an amount the one or more sealants extend from the first side.

In some embodiments, the second side includes a raised lip on an interior surface of the second side. The raised lip separates an interior portion of the interior surface from an edge portion of the interior side. The edge portion includes part of the one or more channels of the liquid channeling system. In other embodiments, at least one of the two or more weep holes is located on the edge portion of the second side.

In some embodiments, the liquid channeling system includes one or more sealants on an exterior surface of the first side positioned to contact the mounting surface with the anchors securing the first side to the mounting surface. The one or more sealants are positioned to direct liquid between the first side and the mounting surface away from the one or more anchor openings. In other embodiments, the mounting surface is vertical, the third side is a top side, and the one or more anchor openings include a plurality of anchor openings. At least two of the plurality of anchor openings are spaced horizontally along the first side, and the one or more sealants include a sealant with a first portion spanning horizontally above the plurality of anchor openings and second and third portions extending downward at ends of the first portion, and/or a sealant above one or more anchor openings of the plurality of anchor openings oriented vertically where the sealant extends downward on either side of the one or more anchor openings and is oriented vertically. In other embodiments, the one or more anchor openings include an opening standoff extending away from an exterior side of the first side and/or the first side includes one or more independent standoffs extending away from the exterior side of the first side. The opening standoffs and the independent standoffs extend away from the first side an amount less than or equal to an amount the one or more sealants extend from the first side.

In some embodiments, the electrical gutter includes an end piece coupled to each of two ends of the sides where each of the two end pieces includes an endcap or a joint section where the joint section is configured to connect to an additional electrical gutter, and/or the electrical gutter includes two or more weep holes located in the second side, fourth side, and/or the end pieces. In the embodiments, the liquid channeling system includes one or more channels along joints between the sides and the end pieces configured to channel liquid to the two or more weep holes. In other embodiments, the fourth side includes a channel of the one or more channels positioned interior to an exterior side of the fourth side that extends a length of a side of the fourth side couplable to the third side and extends along ends of the fourth side couplable to the end pieces. In other embodiments, each end piece includes a channel along a scam between the end piece and a side of the first, second, third, and/or fourth sides, the channel of the end piece shaped to direct liquid to a weep hole of the two or more weep holes.

In some embodiments, the third side includes the second offset section, where the second offset section is configured to run planar to the first side when the third side is in the open position, and the first side includes the first offset section and the first offset section is positioned to run planar to the second side when the second side is in the open position. In other embodiments, an outer side of the second offset section is configured to overlap the second hinge in the open position such that a liquid running down the second offset section runs to an exterior side of the first side when the first side is mounted to a vertical surface and/or an outer side of the first offset section and of the second side are positioned on a bottom side planar with the second side when the first side is mounted to the vertical surface. In other embodiments, the second side includes a raised lip around a perimeter of a center section of the second side configured to prevent liquid from entering the center section. The first offset section and the second offset section include a length to accommodate the raised lip and are sufficient so that the exterior sides of second side and the third side are parallel to the exterior side of the first side in the closed position.

In some embodiments, the first and second hinges are configured and positioned to prevent liquid from entering an interior space formed by the first, second, third and fourth sides and/or an intersection of the fourth side with the third side and an intersection of the fourth side with the second side are configured to prevent liquid from entering the interior space. In other embodiments, the first and second hinges include ball hinges with two spherical sections connected to a side. The two spherical sections face each other and a center section on an opposing side. The center section includes recesses facing the spherical sections, where the spherical sections snap into the recesses. In other embodiments, the first side is configured to mount to a vertical surface and the first hinge and/or the second hinge include a drainage area below the first hinge and/or the second hinge shaped to channel a liquid to an exterior of the first, second, third, and fourth sides.

In some embodiments, the first hinge and the second hinge extend continuously along edges of the first side, the second side, and the third side. In other embodiments, the first hinge and the second hinge each include a rounded edge that conforms to a channel, where the channel surrounds the rounded edge an amount to retain the rounded edge while allowing the second and third sides to rotate to the open position. In the embodiments, the channel of the first hinge and/or the second hinge each is a first channel and each first channel includes a second channel running a length of the first and/or the second hinges positioned on a bottom side of the first channel to transport a liquid from the first and second hinges, where the bottom side of the first channel is relative based on the first side mounted on a vertical surface, and/or the channel includes one or more notches on an outer edge of the channel shaped to allow a liquid in the first hinge or the second hinge to drain out of the first hinge or second hinge. In other embodiments, the channel includes a spring force configured for the rounded edge to snap into the channel.

In some embodiments, the third side is configured as a top to be oriented upward and the first side is configured as a back side configured to be attached to a vertical surface and the third side includes a top side configured to direct a liquid on the top side to run away from the first side and toward the fourth side. In other embodiments, the top side includes a ridge along an edge adjacent to the first side and/or an overhang along an edge adjacent to the fourth side configured to overlap a joint between the third side and the fourth side. The ridge is positioned to be adjacent the vertical surface and when the first side is mounted against the vertical surface, a liquid on the top side runs away from the ridge and toward the overhang. In other embodiments, the fourth side mates to the third side via the joint under the overhang and mates to the second side with a joint on a bottom side of the second side. In other embodiments, the first, second, third, and fourth sides are made from a rigid non-metallic material.

In some embodiments, the first section and the second section each include a fourth side, where the mating portion includes a connection between the fourth side of each of the first and second sections. In other embodiments, the fourth side of the first section includes a first cover separate from the first section that is couplable to the first section and the fourth side of the second section includes a second cover separate from the second section that is couplable to the second section. In other embodiments, the first section, the second section, and/or the joint section include a drain positioned to allow a liquid in the channel to exit the electrical gutter.

In some embodiments, the electrical gutter includes an anchor socket in the joint section configured to align with an opening in the first section or the second section. An anchor inserted through the opening and into the anchor socket retains the first section or the second section to the joint section. The anchor socket includes a bottom preventing a liquid in the anchor socket from entering an interior of the electrical gutter. In other embodiments, the anchor socket is positioned within the channel. In other embodiments, the anchor includes a screw, a bolt, a rivet, and/or a quarter-turn fastener. In other embodiments, the channel is a first channel and the electrical gutter includes a second channel separated from the first channel by a center ridge. The center ridge is configured to abut the joint between the first and second sections. In other embodiments, the channel is positioned between the connections to the first and second sections. The channel is shaped so that a liquid entering the joint between the first and second sections enters the channel and is diverted away from the interior section of the first and second sections.

In some embodiments, the connections between the first section and the mating portion of the joint section include a ridge on one of the joint section or the first section and a corresponding seal on the joint section or first section. The seal is shaped to mate with the ridge or side of the first section to form a first interface configured to resist a liquid flowing through the first interface. The connections between the second section and the mating portion of the joint section include a ridge on one of the joint section or the second section and a corresponding seal on the joint section or second section. The seal is shaped to mate with the ridge or side of the second section to form a second interface configured to resist a liquid flowing through the second interface. In other embodiments, the electrical gutter includes one or more first anchors configured to couple the first section to the joint section and to wedge the seal between the ridge and a side of the first section and one or more second anchors configured to couple the second section to the joint section and to wedge the seal between the ridge and a side of the second section.

In some embodiments, a first side of the first section and a first side of the second section are configured to mount to a vertical surface. The channel is shaped to channel a liquid entering the channel from a top side of the first section and a top side of the second section away from the interior of the first and second sections and/or to channel a liquid away from the first side of the first and second sections.

In some embodiments, the ridge is flexible and extends past the first side, where positioning the first side against the vertical surface causes the ridge to deform and mate to the vertical surface. In other embodiments, at least a removable portion of the ridge is detachable from the third side and includes an edge that fits in a recess in the third side. In other embodiments, the removable portion of the ridge is configured to match a color and/or a material of flashing on a building that includes the vertical surface. The flashing on the building is around windows, is around doors, and/or is part of a roofing system of the building. In other embodiments, the removable portion of the ridge includes a material that conforms to and/or is conformable to the vertical surface.

In some embodiments, the third side includes an overhang along an edge adjacent to the fourth side configured to overlap a joint between the third side and the fourth side. The ridge, overhang and a top side of the third side are configured so a liquid on the top side of the third side runs away from the ridge and toward the overhang. In other embodiments, the overhang is curved. In other embodiments, the ridge is positioned to be adjacent to the vertical surface and the ridge of the third side and the first side are shaped to tilt the third side with a downward slope away from the vertical surface. In other embodiments, the third side includes an overhang along an edge adjacent to the fourth side and the fourth side is tilted so a top edge of the fourth side is positioned further away from the vertical surface than a bottom edge of the fourth side and the overhang creates a drip edge. In other embodiments, the ridge and/or a side of the ridge adjacent to the vertical surface extends past a bottom portion of the first side to tilt the third side with the downward slope away from the vertical surface.

In some embodiments, the second side is coupled to the first side with a first hinge, the third side is coupled to the first side with a second hinge, the second side along the first hinge includes a first offset section positioned to allow the second side to lay flat against the first side in a closed position, and/or the third side along the second hinge includes a second offset section positioned to allow the third side to lay flat against the second side in the closed position.

In some embodiments, sliding the shelf toward the first side so the recesses of engage the protrusions allows the shelf to be self-supported. In other embodiments, the shelf includes one or more anchor points. An anchor inserted at an anchor point of the one or more anchor points secures the shelf to the first side and sliding the shelf toward the first side so the recesses engage the protrusions to allow the shelf to be self-supported allows a user to insert the anchor without holding the shelf in place. In other embodiments, the anchor points are positioned above the shelf along an edge of the shelf positioned toward the first side. In other embodiments, the anchor points are positioned in a center section of a protrusion of the protrusions and/or a recess of the recesses. In other embodiments, the recesses are shaped to conform to the protrusions and sized to hold the shelf with a friction fit when the shelf is slid so the recesses engage the protrusions.

In some embodiments, the protrusions are cylindrical, square, or rectangular and the recesses have a matching shape. In other embodiments, the grid includes rows of protrusions or recesses at various heights to allow positioning the shelf at different vertical heights with respect to the first side. In other embodiments, the electrical gutter includes a fourth side couplable to the second side and the third side at an edge of the second side opposite a coupling between the first side to the second side and an edge of the third side opposite a coupling between the first side and the third side. In other embodiments, the shelf extends away from the first side a distance less than a length of the second side and the third side forming a vertical space towards the fourth side free from the shelf. In other embodiments, an edge of the shelf opposite the first side includes a lip. In other embodiments, the shelf includes one or more drain openings within a horizontal section of the shelf.

FIG. 1A is a perspective view illustrating an electrical gutter (or “gutter”) 100, according to various embodiments. FIG. 1B is a front exploded view of the electrical gutter 100 of FIG. 1A and FIG. 1C is a back exploded view of the electrical gutter of FIG. 1A, according to various embodiments. The electrical gutter 100 includes a first side 102 that is a back side configured to be mounted against a vertical surface, such as a wall. The electrical gutter 100 includes a second side 104 coupled to the first side 102 that serves as a bottom and a third side 106 coupled to the first side 102 that serves as a top. The electrical gutter 100 includes a fourth side 108 that is couplable to the first third side 106 and/or the second side 104 that can be removed. The electrical gutter 100 is modular and is configured to so a first section connects to a second section via a joint section 118. The electrical gutter 100 is also collapsible along a first hinge 110 and a second hinge 112. In some embodiments, the first hinge 110 and the second hinge 112 extend continuously along edges of the first side 102, the second side 104, and the third side 106. Coordinates 150 are depicted with an X axis and a Y axis being in a horizontal plane with the X axis running horizontally along the vertical surface and the Y axis being perpendicular to the vertical surface and a Z axis running vertically.

In some embodiments the third side 106 is configured as a top to be oriented upward (e.g., Z axis) and the first side 102 is configured as a back side configured to be attached to a vertical surface and the third side 106 includes a top side configured to direct a liquid on the top side to run away from the first side 102 and toward the fourth side 108. In the embodiments depicted, the third side 106 includes a planar section 113 and a ridge 114 along an edge adjacent to the first side 102. In some embodiments, the ridge 114 is positioned to be adjacent a vertical surface to which the electrical gutter 100 is mounted and has a peak that is located above a plane running through the planar section 113. The ridge 114 extends away from the first side 102 and is sloped to the planar section 113 to direct a liquid, such as water, on a top of the third side 106 away from the first side 102. The third side 106 terminates at the fourth side 108, which is depicted as having a curved edge 116.

A joint section 118 is configured to join to electrical gutter sections (e.g., each 100). Anchors may be used to secure the electrical gutter 100 to the joint section 118. Two anchors 120 are depicted and extend through openings 122 to the joint section 118.

The third side 106 includes a drill zone 124 where drilling will not hit the protrusions 126, hinges 110, 112, or other parts on the sides of the electrical gutter 100. The drill zone 124, in some embodiments, includes lines forming a grid, which can be used to more accurately position openings drilled through the third side 106. In some examples, the grid can be used to position an opening drilled at one end of the third side 106 with respect to another opening in the third side 106. In some embodiments, the second side 104 (bottom) also includes a drill zone. In other embodiments, the interior sides of the second side 104 and the third side 106 also include a drill zone marked with a grid that matches the drill zone 124 on the exterior surfaces.

The electrical gutter 100 includes protrusions 126 configured to mate to recesses 130 of a shelf 128. In some embodiments, the protrusions 126 are evenly spaced on a horizontal axis so that a shelf 128 may be moved horizontally between various positions. In other embodiments, the protrusions 126 include multiple rows vertically (Z axis) to allow a shelf 128 to be at various vertical positions. The shelf 128 includes a horizontal section and a back portion positionable adjacent to the first side 102. In some embodiments, the recesses 130 of the shelf 128 and the protrusions 126 are configured so that sliding the shelf 128 toward the first side 102 so the recesses 130 of engage the protrusions 126 allows the shelf 128 to be self-supported. In some embodiments, the recesses 130 are spaced and configured to conform to the protrusions 126. Note that while the protrusions 126 are depicted on the first side 102 and the shelf 128 is depicted with recesses 130, in other embodiments, the protrusions 126 are on the shelf 128 and the recesses 130 are on the first side 102.

The protrusions 126 are depicted as cylindrical, but could be square, rectangular, oval, or other shape. In some embodiments, the recesses 130 are configured to closely conform to match the shape of the protrusions 126 so that when the shelf is pushed towards the first side 102 with the protrusions 126 aligned with the recesses 130, the recesses 130 have a friction fit with the protrusions 126 to support the shelf 128.

In some embodiments, anchors 132 hold the shelf 128 to the first side 102 at anchor points. In some embodiments, the anchor points of the anchors 132 are located in the recesses 130 and/or protrusions 126. In other embodiments, the anchor points of the anchors 132 are located elsewhere on the shelf 128 and connect directly to the first side 102. In various embodiments, the anchors 132 may include a screw, a bolt, a rivet, a quarter-turn fastener, or other suitable fastener known to those in the art. In the embodiments, the recesses 130 complement the anchor type. For example, where the anchor 132 is s screw, a corresponding recess 130 may be a cylindrical opening sized for the shaft of the screw and may either include threads or may be deformed so that the screw cuts threads into the recess 130.

In some embodiments, the electrical gutter 100 includes a vertical divider 134. The vertical divider 134, in some embodiments, supports the shelf 128. In other embodiments, the vertical divider 134 includes recesses 130 or protrusions 126 to mount to the first side 102 in the same way as a shelf 128. In some embodiments, one or more the vertical dividers 134 are rotated to extend along the electrical gutter 100 to create multiple troughs to separate wires by voltage, wire type, etc. The vertical dividers 134 may extend to the third side 106 or may partially span a vertical distance within the electrical gutter 100. In some embodiments, the shelf 128 includes a lip 136 on an edge opposite the first side 102. The lip 136 may be customized to be tall enough to retain wires or a certain amount of wires on the shelf 128. In some embodiments, the lip 136 includes recesses 138 to accommodate a shaft of a screwdriver or other tool shaped to fasten the anchor 132. In some embodiments, the shelf 128 includes openings 140 that may serve to drain liquid from the shelf 128, may be used to anchor wires using wire ties, or other suitable purpose.

In some embodiments, the second side 104 includes a raised lip 142 around a perimeter of a center section 144 of the second side 104 configured to prevent liquid from entering the center section 144. In some embodiments, the center section 144 is also a drill zone 124. In other embodiments, the center section 144 includes drain openings (not shown).

In some embodiments, the fourth side 108 includes an upper tab 146 configured to fit in an upper tab joint (see FIG. 2D) in the third side 106 and a lower tab 148 configured to fit in a lower tab joint (see FIG. 2D) of the second side 104. The upper tab 146, lower tab 148, upper tab joint, and lower tab joint are configured to prevent liquid, such as water, from entering the electrical gutter 100 at a joint between the fourth side 108 and the third side 106 and the fourth side 108 and the second side 104.

In some embodiments, at least the first side 102, the second side 104, the third side 106, the fourth side 108, the shelf 128, the vertical divider 134, and/or the joint section 118 are constructed using a non-metallic material. In some examples, the non-metallic material is a plastic, a polymer, a resin, or other suitable rigid non-metallic material. In some embodiments, the non-metallic material serves as an insulator for voltages of wires and components in the electrical gutter 100.

FIG. 2A is a perspective view illustrating an electrical gutter 200 without a cover and shelving, according to various embodiments. FIG. 2B is a perspective view illustrating the electrical gutter 200 of FIG. 2A with supports partially deployed, FIG. 2C is a perspective view illustrating the electrical gutter 200 of FIG. 2A with supports fully deployed, FIG. 2D is a side section view illustrating the electrical gutter 200 of FIG. 2A with supports partially deployed, FIG. 2E is a side section view illustrating the electrical gutter 200 of FIG. 2A with supports fully deployed, according to various embodiments. In some embodiments, the electrical gutter 200 of FIGS. 2A-2E is substantially similar to the electrical gutter 100 of FIGS. 1A-IC.

The electrical gutter 200 is configured to be collapsible along the first hinge 110 and the second hinge 112 to a closed position, as depicted in FIG. 3. In some embodiments, the second side 104 is shaped to rotate via the first hinge 110 between a closed position adjacent the first side 102 and an open position perpendicular to the first side 102 and the third side 106 is shaped to rotate between a closed position adjacent to the second side 104 in the closed position and an open position perpendicular to the first side 102.

The electrical gutter 200 includes a first side 102 configured to be mounted against a surface, such as a vertical surface. Note that while the electrical gutter 200 may be mounted against any surface, the electrical gutter 200 is configured to prevent liquid from falling on and then running into the interior of the electrical gutter 200 when the first side 102 is mounted against a vertical surface.

The electrical gutter 200 includes a second side 104 configured to be a bottom and a third side 106 configured to be a top of the electrical gutter 200. The third side 106 includes a ridge 114 positioned with a peak substantially in-line with the exterior of the first side 102 to help prevent liquid falling on the third side 106 from running to an interface between the first side 102 and a vertical surface. Note that the first side 102 is also configured to prevent liquids from entering the interior of the electrical gutter 200, with the ridge 114, less liquid, such as water from rain, snow, liquids splashed onto the electrical gutter 200, such as soapy water, liquid chemicals, etc. is likely to flow from the top of the third side 106 to between the first side 102 and the vertical surface.

The third side 106, in some embodiments, includes a planar section 113 where, in some embodiments, the ridge 114 is positioned to be adjacent the vertical surface and has a peak that is located above a plane running through the planar section 113. The ridge 114 extends away (e.g., vertical upward) from the first side 102 and is sloped to the planar section 113 to direct a liquid on a top of the third side 106 away from the first side 102.

In the depicted embodiments of FIGS. 2A-2E, an edge of the third side 106 opposite the first side 102 is curved. In some embodiments, the edge of the third side 106 opposite the first side 102 includes an overhang of the curved edge 116 along an edge adjacent to a fourth side (not shown) that is configured to overlap a joint between the third side 106 and the fourth side. In some embodiments, the ridge 114 is positioned to be adjacent the vertical surface and when the first side 102 is mounted against the vertical surface, a liquid on the top side runs away from the ridge 114 and toward the overhang of the curved edge 116.

In some embodiments, the second side 104 includes a raised lip 142 around a perimeter of a center section 144 of the second side 104 configured to prevent liquid from entering the center section 144, as discussed above in relation to the electrical gutter 100 of FIGS. 1A-1C.

In some embodiments, the first side 102 or the second side 104 along the first hinge 110 includes a first offset section positioned to allow the second side 104 to lay flat against the first side 102 in the closed position with an exterior side of the second side 104 parallel with an exterior side of the first side 102. In the embodiments, the third side 106 or the first side 102 along the second hinge 112 has a second offset section positioned to allow the third side 106 to lay flat against the second side 104 in the closed position with an exterior side of the third side 106 parallel to an exterior side of the first side 102. As used herein, a side laying “flat” against a side means that the sides are substantially coplanar within a few degrees (e.g., 0-5 degrees) of being completely coplanar.

In the embodiments depicted in FIGS. 2A-2E, the third side 106 has the second offset section 202 where the second offset section 202 is configured to run planar to the first side 102 when the third side 106 is in the open position. In addition, the first side 102 includes the first offset section 204 and the first offset section 204 is positioned to run planar to the second side 104 when the second side is in the open position. Beneficially, having the second offset section 202 along the third side 106 places the second hinge 112 along the first side 102, which may better accommodate having liquids run past the second hinge 112 to avoid entry into the interior of the electrical gutter 200. Beneficially, having the first offset section 204 on the first side 102 positions the first hinge 110 on the bottom of the electrical gutter 200 along the second side 104 helps to prevent liquids from entering the electrical gutter 200. In some embodiments, an outer side of the second offset section 202 is configured to overlap the second hinge 112, as depicted in FIGS. 2D and 2E in the open position such that a liquid running down the second offset section 202 runs to an exterior side of the first side 102 when the first side 102 is mounted to a vertical surface. In other embodiments, an outer side of the first offset section 204 and of the second side 104 are positioned on a bottom side planar with the second side 104 when the first side 102 is mounted to the vertical surface.

FIG. 3 is a side section view illustrating the electrical gutter 200 of FIG. 2A in a closed position, according to various embodiments. In some embodiments, the first offset section 204 and the second offset section 202 include a length to accommodate the raised lip 142 and the lengths are sufficient so that the exterior sides of second side 104 and the third side 106 are parallel to the exterior side of the first side 102 in the closed position. In other embodiments, the lengths of the first offset section 204 and second offset section 202 are sized to accommodate the protrusions 126, which may be longer than the raised lip 142, as depicted in FIG. 3.

In some embodiments, the third side 106 includes an overhang of the curved edge 116 along an edge adjacent to the fourth side 108 opposite the first side 102 and ridge 114 configured to overlap a joint between the third side 106 and a top edge of the fourth side 108. In some embodiments, the joint is formed with a gap formed between the overhang of the curved edge 116 and a top lip 206, as depicted in FIGS. 2D, 2E, and 3. When the first side 102 is mounted against the vertical surface, a liquid on the top side of the third side 106 runs away from the ridge 114 and toward the overhang of the curved edge 116. In some embodiments, the upper tab 146 of the fourth side 108 mates to the third side 106 via the joint under the overhang of the curved edge 116 and the lower tab 148 mates to the second side 104 with a joint 208 and corresponding joint edge 209 on a bottom edge of the fourth side 108.

In some embodiments, the electrical gutter 200 includes bracing supports 210 and braces 212, which provide structural support to maintain the third side 106 horizontal. FIG. 2D depicts a brace 212 connected to a bracing support 210 on the bottom while the brace 212 is partially rotated to a top bracing support 210. FIG. 2E depicts the brace 212 connected to both the top and bottom bracing supports 210. In some embodiments, the second hinge 112 includes a locking tab and corresponding recess that allows the third side 106 to snap into the open position. In some embodiments, the first hinge 110 and/or the second hinge 112 include a stop to prevent the second side 104 and the third side 106 from extending past perpendicular to the first side 102.

FIG. 4 is a front view 400 of a first side of the electrical gutter 200 of FIG. 2A and two section views depicting shelves 128 and the first side 102, according to various embodiments. Section A-A and section B-B

The first side 102 includes protrusions 126 that are depicted to be cylindrical. In other embodiments, the protrusions 126 have a different shape. In some embodiments, the protrusions 126 protrude from the first side 102 a length and conform to recesses 130 of the shelf with a friction fit sufficient to support the weight of a shelf 128. In some embodiments, the length, friction fit, etc. of the protrusions 126 and corresponding recesses 130 support the shelf 128 without loading, for example, until an anchor 132, 402 is inserted and anchors the shelf 128 to the first side 102. In other embodiments, the length, friction fit, etc. of the protrusions 126 and corresponding recesses 130 support the shelf 128 while loaded.

In some embodiments, an anchor 402 is long enough to extend through the first side 102 and into a surface where the electrical gutter 100, 200 is mounted and serves to anchor the shelf 128 to the first side 102 and the electrical gutter 100, 200 to the surface. As depicted, other anchors 132 are sized to engage a protrusion 126 but are not long enough to go through the first side 102.

The protrusions 126 are depicted in a grid, which allows multiple positions for shelves 128 both horizontally and vertically. Other embodiments may include vertical dividers 134 (not shown).

FIG. 5A is a first perspective view and FIG. 5B is a second perspective view illustrating a shelf 128 for the electrical gutters 100, 200 of FIGS. 1A and 2A, according to various embodiments. In some embodiments, the shelf includes a lip 136, which may serve to retain wires and other items on the shelf 128. In some examples, the lip 136 includes notches 502 configured to allow a tool, such as a screwdriver, to place anchors 132, 402 into the recesses 130.

The shelf 128 includes openings 504, which may serve as drain openings or anchor points for wire ties or other devices to secure wires or other equipment to the shelf 128. In other embodiments, the shelf 128 includes a reinforcement section 506 between the recesses 130 and above a horizontal surface of the shelf 128. The reinforcement section 506, in some embodiments, provides support for the recesses 130. Note that while the shelf includes recesses 130 and the first side 102 includes protrusions 126, in various embodiments the shelf 128 may include protrusions and the first side 102 may include recesses.

FIG. 6 is an end view 600 of the electrical gutter 100 of FIG. 1A with shelves 128 and a joint section 118, according to various embodiments. The end view of FIG. 6 is from a perspective of looking at the joint section 118 with a section of electrical gutter 100 behind the joint section 118. The end view 600 includes a first side 102, a second side 104, a third side 106, and a fourth side 108, a first hinge 110, a second hinge 112, a ridge 114, an overhang of the curved edge 116, a joint section 118, anchors 120, a shelf 128 with a lip 136, a vertical divider 134, a first offset section 204, and a second offset section 202, which are substantially similar to those described above.

In some embodiments, the anchors 120 are secured into an anchor socket 602 of the joint section 118. In some embodiments, the anchor socket 602 in the joint section 118 is configured to align with an opening 122 in a first section or a second section of an electrical gutter 100, 200. In some embodiments, an anchor 120 inserted through the opening 122 and into the anchor socket 602 retains the first section or the second section to the joint section 118. In some embodiments, the anchor socket 602 includes a bottom preventing a liquid in the anchor socket 602 from entering an interior of the electrical gutter 100, 200. In some embodiments, the anchor socket 602 is located in a channel of the joint section 118. In some embodiments, the anchor 120 is a screw, a bolt, a rivet, a quarter-turn fastener, or the like.

FIG. 7A is a perspective view and FIG. 7B is side view illustrating a switch section 700 to be added to an electrical gutter 100, 200, according to various embodiments. The switch section 700 includes a first side 702 to be mounted against a surface, a second side 704 on a bottom and a third side 106 which is a top if the surface is a vertical surface, and a fourth side 708. In some embodiments, the fourth side 708 of the switch section 700 is detachable and the second side 704 and the third side 706 are connected to the first side 702. The third side 706 includes a ridge 714 and/or an overhang 716 as described above.

The switch section 700 includes a switch 742 on the fourth side 708. In some embodiments, a back side of the switch includes an enclosure, such as a junction box, (not shown) separate from the interior of the electrical gutter 100, 200. In some embodiments, the enclosure for the switch is added to the fourth side 708 and the switch 742 is added to the enclosure. In other embodiments, the switch 742 and enclosure are together as a unit and are added to the fourth side 708. In some embodiments, the fourth side 708 comes with the switch 742.

In other embodiments, the interior of the electrical gutter 100, 200 serves as the enclosure for the switch 742. In some embodiments, the switch section 700 includes a divider 744 to separate wires 746 from the switch 742. The divider 744 may include an opening 748 for wires 746 to terminate on the switch 742. In other embodiments, the switch section 700 includes shelves 128, protrusions 126, vertical dividers 134, etc. similar to those of the electrical gutters 100, 200 described above. In some embodiments, the switch section 700 is connected to an electrical gutter 100, 200 via a joint section 718, as described herein.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view and two side views of a section of a hinge 800 with a drainage channel 810 for an electrical gutter 100, 200, according to various embodiments. The hinge 800 includes a first portion 802 to be joined to a second portion 804. The first portion 802 includes a rounded edge 806 that conforms to a first channel 808. The first channel 808 includes a second drainage channel 810 running a length of the hinge 800 and positioned on a bottom side of the first channel 808 to transport a liquid from the hinge. The bottom side of the first channel 808 is relative based on a first side (e.g., 102) of an electrical gutter 100, 200 with the hinge 800 being mounted on a vertical surface. In some embodiments, liquid entering the first channel 808 runs into the second drainage channel 810 and flows to ends of the electrical gutter 100, 200.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view and two side views of a section of a hinge 900 with a drainage notch 910 for an electrical gutter 100, 200, according to various embodiments. The hinge 900 includes a first portion 902 to be joined to a second portion 904. The first portion 902 includes a rounded edge 906 that conforms to a channel 908. The channel 908 includes one or more notches 910 placed strategically along the hinge 900, such as along an outer edge of the channel 908, to allow liquid in the hinge 900 to drain out. In some embodiments, the hinge 900 includes a second channel like the hinge 800 of FIG. 8 and the notch 910 is in the side of the second channel.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view and two side views of a section of a hinge 1000 with an offset 1010 for an electrical gutter 100, 200, according to various embodiments. The hinge 1000 includes a first portion 1002 to be joined to a second portion 1004. The first portion 1002 includes a rounded section 1006 that conforms to a channel 1008. The first portion 1002 includes an offset 1010 similar to the first offset section 204 and the second offset section 202 described above. in some embodiments, the channel 1008 extends past a midline 1012 of the rounded portion to surround the rounded section 1006 enough to hold the rounded section 1006. In some embodiments, the rounded section 1006 is able to be snapped into the channel 1008 based on a spring force of the channel 1008. The spring force, in some embodiments, is created by the material of the hinge 1000.

FIG. 11 is a side section view of a hinge for an electrical gutter illustrating a channel 1008 extending past a midline 1012 of a rounded section 1006, according to various embodiments. The hinge is similar to the hinge 1000 of FIG. 10. Where the channel 1008 extends past the rounded section 1006 past the midline 1012, the rounded section 1006 is less likely to separate from the channel 1008.

In other embodiments, the hinge is a pin-style hinge that includes a pin that is surrounded by a rounded section in an upper section and a lower section, similar to a door hinge. In the embodiments, the rounded sections are shaped to allow opening of a side section and in an open position, the rounded sections are shaped so that liquid will be directed external to the electrical gutter. One of skill in the art will recognize other hinge designs that are shaped to prevent liquid, such as rain, snow, etc., from entering the electrical gutter.

FIG. 12A is a first and a second perspective view illustrating a joint section 118 for joining two electrical gutter sections 100, 200, according to various embodiments. FIG. 12B is a side section view of the joint sections 118 of FIG. 12A, according to various embodiments. The joint section 118 is shaped to fit between two sections of electrical gutters 100, 200. The joint section 118 includes four sides in a shape of a square hoop with an opening in line with an interior section of the sections of the electrical gutters 100, 200. In some embodiments, the joint section 118 has three sides with an opening on a side intended to align with a removable fourth side 108. In the embodiments of FIGS. 12A and 12B, the joint section 118 includes a mating portion configured to contact each of three sides (e.g., 102, 104, 106) of first and second sections of electrical gutters 100, 200. The mating portion includes a center ridge 1202 between two side ridges 1204 so that between the center ridge 1202 and the side ridges 1204 there are two channels 1206 shaped to help prevent water or other liquids from entering an interior space of the sections of the electrical gutters 100, 200 being joined. In some examples, liquid may enter in a seam between sections of the electrical gutters 100, 200 and onto the center ridge 1202, and would then flow to either of the two channels 1206. Liquid in the two channels 1206 would then flow towards the first side 102 or towards the fourth side 108 and out a bottom of the two channels 1206.

In some embodiments, the side ridges 1204 and/or center ridge 1202 include a seal that is positioned between the sections of the electrical gutter 100, 200 to reduce liquid passing between the side ridges 1204 and/or center ridge 1202. In other embodiments, the seal is mounted on the sections of electrical gutters 100, 200, for example, by way of an adhesive. In other embodiments, the side ridges 1204 and/or center ridge 1202 or the sections of the electrical gutters 100, 200 include a groove where the seal is located, which may provide a way to hold the seal in place or an additional way to hold the seal in place. In various embodiments, the seal is rubber, butyl rubber, a resilient plastic, caulk, or other material suitable for forming a seal. One of skill in the art will recognize other suitable materials for a seal.

Where the joint section 118 has only three sides, in some embodiments, the two channels 1206 incudes a raised end towards the missing side to divert liquid to the first side 102. In other embodiments, a fourth side 108 on either of the two sections of the electrical gutter 100, 200 joined by the joint section 118 includes a diversion channel that would mate with the joint section 118 and would divert liquid from the two channels 1206 at the top of the joint section 118 down towards a bottom of the electrical gutters 100, 200 without being let into the interior of the electrical gutters 100, 200.

In some embodiments, the center ridge 1202 is below where the sections of the electrical gutters 100, 200 meet. Having the center ridge 1202 below where the sections of the electrical gutters 100, 200 meet is advantageous to have only a single seam for liquid to enter and is more aesthetically pleasing than the center ridge 1202 being exposed. In addition, having the center ridge 1202 below where the sections of the electrical gutters 100, 200 meet is advantageous when planning an overall length of multiple sections of the electrical gutter 100, 200 because the width of the center ridge 1202 does not affect lengths of the overall electrical gutter 100, 200.

The joint section 118, in some embodiments, includes an anchor socket 1208 in the joint section 118 configured to align with an opening in the first section or the second section of the electrical gutter 100, 200. An anchor 1210 inserted through the opening and into the anchor socket 1208 retains the first section or the second section of the electrical gutter 100, 200 to the joint section 118. The anchor socket 1208, in some embodiments, includes a bottom preventing a liquid in the anchor socket 1208 from entering an interior of the electrical gutter 100, 200. In some embodiments, the anchor sockets 1208 are located in the channels 1206. In other embodiments, the anchor sockets 1208 are located on the side ridges 1204 or in the center ridge 1202. While the joint section 118 of FIG. 12A only includes anchor sockets 1208 on a top of the joint sections 118, other embodiments include additional anchor sockets 1208 on other sides of the joint sections 118. In some embodiments, the anchors 1210 are positioned to provide pressure on a seal to wedge between a ridge 1202, 1204 of the joint section 118 and first and second sections of the electrical gutter 100, 200 to form a liquid-tight interface between the sections of electrical gutter 100, 200 and the joint section 118.

In some embodiments, the anchor 1210 is a screw, as depicted, and the screw socket 1208 includes threads or is of a material where threads may be cut by a screw being inserted. In other embodiments, the anchor 1210 may be a bolt, a rivet, a quarter-turn fastener, or other anchor 1210 known to those of skill in the art. In other embodiments, the sections of the electrical gutter 100, 200 are joined to the joint section 118 using an adhesive. In other embodiments, the sections of the electrical gutter 100, 200 are joined to the joint section 118 using an external strap. In other embodiments, the sections of the electrical gutter 100, 200 are joined to the joint section 118 using a wire or similar flexible connector, a C-shaped crimp, etc. that is threaded through openings in the sections of the electrical gutter 100, 200. One of skill in the art will recognize other ways to connect the sections of the electrical gutter 100, 200 to the joint section 118.

In some embodiments, the sections of the electrical gutter 100, 200 and/or the joint section 118 includes a drain positioned to allow a liquid in the channel to exit the electrical gutter 100, 200. The drain includes an opening sized to allow liquid to exit the two channels 1206 and/or an interior of the electrical gutters 100, 200. In some embodiments, each of the two channels 1206 includes a drain. In other embodiments, each of the two channels 1206 includes multiple drains.

In some embodiments, the two channels 1206 are angled on at least a top side to further promote drainage. In some embodiments, the two channels 1206 are angled with respect to the joint section 118. In other embodiments, the electrical gutters 100, 200 are tilted to angle the two channels 1206.

FIG. 12C is a side section view of an alternate joint section 1201, according to various embodiments. The alternate joint section 1201 of FIG. 12A is similar to the joint section 118 of FIGS. 12A and 12B but includes a single channel 1212 instead of two channels 1206. The alternate joint section 1201 also includes side ridges 1204 and may include anchor sockets 1208 for anchors 1210. The alternate joint section 1201 may also include other ways of joining the sections of the electrical gutter 100, 200, such as those described above in relation to the joint sections 118 of FIGS. 2A and 2B.

FIG. 13 is a side section view of an electrical gutter 1300 with a ridge 114 against a vertical surface 1302 and the electrical gutter 1300 angled, according to various embodiments. In some embodiments, the electrical gutter 1300 is similar to the electrical gutters 100, 200 described above except for being tilted. In the embodiments of FIG. 13, the first side 102 and the second offset section 202 are shaped to be thicker at the top than at the bottom to tilt the electrical gutter 1300. In other embodiments, all or a portion of the second offset section 202 extends further towards vertical surface 1302 than the first side 102.

In the embodiments, the thickened upper portion of the second offset section 202 and/or first side 102 tilts the electrical gutter 1300 to create an angle 1304 along an interior side of the first side 102, which also creates a tilt on the top of the third side 106 to create an angle 1306 of the top of the third side 106. Likewise, the fourth side 108 is tilted creating an angle 1308 of the exterior of the fourth side 108. The tilted top of the third side 106 further helps liquid to flow away from the vertical surface 1302 and a scam between the vertical surface 1302 and the first side 102. In addition, the tilt of the fourth side 108 further helps liquid to run off the electrical gutter 1300.

FIG. 14 is a partial side section view of an electrical gutter 1400 with a ridge 114 against a vertical surface 1402 and a top side of the electrical gutter 1400 is angled with an end 1404 that is rounded, according to various embodiments. In some embodiments, the electrical gutter 1400 is similar to the electrical gutters 100, 200 described above except for being tilted. In the embodiments of FIG. 13, rather than the first side 102 and/or second offset section 202 being modified to create a tilt, the third side 106 has a top side that is tilted. In some embodiments, the planar section 113 of the third side 106 is tilted. In some embodiments, the entire third side 106 is tilted. In other embodiments, an end of the third side 106 toward the first side 102 is thicker than an opposite end of the third side 106 towards the fourth side 108. In some embodiments, the rounded end 1404 of the third side 106 overhangs the fourth side 108 creating a drip edge.

FIG. 15 is a partial side section view of an electrical gutter 1500 with a ridge 114 against a vertical surface 1502 and a top side of the electrical gutter 1500 is angled with a squared end 1504, according to various embodiments. In some embodiments, the electrical gutter 1500 is similar to the electrical gutters 100, 200 described above except for being tilted. The electrical gutter 1500 of FIG. 15 is similar to the electrical gutter 1400 of FIG. 14 except the third side 106 is planar to a squared end 1504 and also includes a drip edge. One of skill in the art will recognize other ways to tilt the third side 106 and/or fourth side 108 to further help liquid to run off the electrical gutters 1300, 1400, 1500.

FIG. 16A is a top perspective view illustrating another electrical gutter 1600, according to various embodiments. FIG. 16B is a bottom view, FIG. 16C is a back view, FIG. 16D is a bottom view of the electrical gutter 1600 of FIG. 16A, according to various embodiments. FIG. 16E is an underside perspective view of a fourth side 1608, FIG. 16F is a front perspective view, and FIG. 16G is a back perspective view of the fourth side 1608 of the electrical gutter 1600 of FIG. 16A, according to various embodiments. FIG. 16H is a cross section A-A′ view and FIG. 16I is a cross section B-B′ view of the electrical gutter 1600 of FIG. 16A, according to various embodiments. FIG. 16J is an end view and FIG. 16K is a cross section view of an endcap 1630 of the electrical gutter 1600 of FIG. 16A, according to various embodiments.

FIG. 16L is a top front perspective view of the electrical gutter 1600 of FIG. 16A without a drill zone marking, according to various embodiments. FIG. 16M is an exploded top front perspective view, FIG. 16N is an exploded top back perspective view, FIG. 16O is a back perspective view, and FIG. 16P is an exploded back view of the electrical gutter 1600 of FIG. 16A without a drill zone marking, according to various embodiments. The first side 1602 includes sealants 1640, 1642. FIG. 16Q is a partial top perspective view, of the electrical gutter 1600 of FIG. 16A, according to various embodiments. FIG. 16R is a partial top perspective view of the electrical gutter 1600 of FIG. 16A cut through bosses 1662 for an endcap 1630, according to various embodiments. FIG. 16S is a partial top perspective view of the electrical gutter 1600 of FIG. 16A cut through an end liquid channel 1656, according to various embodiments. FIG. 16T is a partial top perspective view of the electrical gutter 1600 of FIG. 16A with a cut through a corner, according to various embodiments. FIG. 16U is a top perspective view and FIG. 16V is a back perspective view of an endcap 1630 of the electrical gutter 1600 of FIG. 16A, according to various embodiments.

The electrical gutter 1600 includes a first side 1602 configured as a back side of the electrical gutter 1600. The electrical gutter 1600 also includes a second side 1604 coupled to the first side 1602 at a first corner and a third side 1606 coupled to the first side 1602 at a second corner. The second side 1604 is configured as a bottom side and the third side 1606 is configured as a top side of the electrical gutter 1600, meaning that the third side 1606 is configured to be facing substantially upward when the first side 1602 is mounted to a mounting surface. In some embodiments, the mounting surface is vertical. In other embodiments, the mounting surface is substantially vertical, meaning that the mounting surface can be angled a somewhat, such as at up to 30 degrees from vertical. The third side 1606 of the electrical gutter 1600 facing substantially upward means that the third side 1606 may be up to 30 degrees tilted from horizontal.

In some embodiments, the electrical gutter 1600 includes a ridge 1614 on an edge of the third side 1606 adjacent to the first side 1602 to help guide liquid away from a gap between a vertical surface to which the electrical gutter 1600 is mounted and the first side 1602. In some embodiments, the ridge 1614 is similar to the ridge 114 discussed above in relation to the electrical gutters 100, 200, 1300, 1400, 1500 discussed above. In some embodiments, the third side 1606 includes a curved edge 1616 at an edge opposite the ridge 1614 configured to allow liquid to roll off of the top of the electrical gutter. In various embodiments, the curved edge 1616 is similar to the curved edge 116 of the electrical gutters 100, 200 described above.

The electrical gutter 1600 also includes a fourth side 1608 couplable to the second side 1604 and the third side 1606 at an edge of the second side 1604 and of the third side 1606 opposite the first corner and the second corner. The electrical gutter 1600 includes a liquid channeling system configured to channel liquid, such as water from rain, snow, sleet, ice, etc. away from an interior of the electrical gutter 1600. In some embodiments, the liquid channeling system is configured to channel liquid to two or more weep holes 1654 positioned along the bottom of the electrical gutter 1600. In some embodiments, some or all of the two or more weep holes 1654 are in the second side 1604. In other embodiments, the electrical gutter 1600 includes an end piece coupled to each of two ends of the sides 1602, 1604, 1606, 1608. In the embodiments, one or more of the weep holes 1654 are positioned in an end piece or are partially within an end piece.

Each of the two end pieces are an endcap 1630 or a joint section. The joint section may be similar to the joint section 118 described above in relation to the electrical gutters 100, 200 in FIGS. 1A-C, 2A-E, 3 and the joint section is configured to connect to an additional electrical gutter (not shown).

In some embodiments, the fourth side 1608 includes a channel 1656 configured to channel liquid to the two or more weep holes 1654. In some embodiments, the channel 1656 is formed between channel sides 1670 where one channel side 1670 may include the fourth side 1608, endcap 1630, joint section 118, 1718. In some embodiments, the channel 1656 of the fourth side 1608 runs along a top edge of the fourth side 1608 and then down the sides of the fourth side 1608. In some embodiments, the fourth side 1608 includes a channel along the bottom edge, as depicted in FIG. 16E.

In some embodiments, the second side 1604 includes a raised lip 1674, as depicted in FIG. 16M, on an interior surface of the second side 1604. The raised lip 1674 separates an interior portion of the interior surface of the second side 1604 from an edge portion of the interior side of the second side 1604. The edge portion is part of the one or more channels 1656 of the liquid channeling system. In some embodiments, the channel 1656 of the fourth side 1608 has a width to align with the raised lip 1674 of the second side 1604. In other embodiments, channels 1656 of the endcap 1630 and/or joint section (e.g., 118) have a width and position to align with the edge portion of the second side 1604. The raised lip 1674, in some embodiments, is positioned and sized to help prevent liquid from the channels 1656 from entering the interior space within the raised lip 1674.

In some embodiments, each end piece (endcap 1630 or joint section 118) includes a channel 1656 along a seam between the end piece and a side of the first, second, third, and/or fourth sides 1602, 1604, 1606, 1608. The channel 1656 of the end piece is shaped to direct liquid to a weep hole 1654 of the two or more weep holes 1654. In other embodiments, each end piece includes a channel 1656 of the one or more channels 1656 of the liquid channeling system where the channel 1656 of the end piece (1630, 118) includes a first portion on a top side of the end piece and is oriented along a joint between the third side 1606 and the end piece. The first portion of the channel 1656 of the end piece is sloped to direct liquid in the first portion of the channel 1656 away from the fourth side 1608 and toward the first side 1602 or back of the electrical gutter 1600. FIG. 16K depicts lines 1676 that show liquid flow direction and a sloped channel 1656 along the top of the endcap 1630. At the top of the endcap 1630, the top channel 1656 is sloped so that liquid in the top channel 1656 flows as depicted by the line 1676.

In some embodiments, the end piece includes a second portion of the channel 1656 of the end piece that is connected to the first portion. The second portion runs along a joint between the end piece and the first side 1602 and is configured so that liquid running from the first portion along the top of the channel 1656 then runs down the second portion along the back side of the end piece adjacent to the first side 1602.

In some embodiments, the end piece is a joint section where the joint section includes an open side facing the fourth side 1608. Where the end piece is a joint section, the joint section may be open on a side adjacent to the fourth side 1608 so that liquid running towards the first side 1602 helps to keep liquid from running into the electric gutter 1600. FIG. 17 is a perspective view illustrating a joint section 1718 for joining two electrical gutter sections where the joint section 1718 includes an open side, according to various embodiments. The joint section 1718 is substantially similar to the joint section 118 of FIGS. 12A and 12B with a center ridge 1202, side ridges 1204, two channels 1206, and anchor sockets 1208 as described in relation to the joint section 118 of FIGS. 12A and 12B except with an open side. The open side is configured to be oriented on a side where the fourth side 1608 would be located to help facilitate installation of wiring that is longer than one portion of the electrical gutter 1600.

Where the end piece is an endcap 1630, the endcap 1630 typically includes a third portion of channel 1656 along the fourth side 1608. FIGS. 16H, 16I, 16J, and 16K depict an endcap with a channel 1656 along a side where the fourth side 1608 is located. The endcap 1630 includes tab slots 1666 configured to mate to tabs 1664 in the first side 1602, second side 1604, and third side 1606. FIG. 16M depicts the tabs 1664 in the first side 1602, second side 1604, and third side 1606 and tab slots 1666 in the endcap 1630. The tabs 1664 and tab slots 1666 provide a mechanism to snap the endcap 1630 onto the first side 1602, second side 1604, and third side 1606. In some embodiments, the tabs 1664 include a hook end, ridge, etc. that snaps into a tab slot 1666.

In addition, the endcaps 1630 include bosses 1662 that align with anchor sockets 1660 where an anchor (not shown) inserted into a boss 1662 is secured into the anchor socket 1660. In some embodiments, the anchor sockets 1660 extend from the first side 1602, second side 1604, and third side 1606 a distance so that a properly sized anchor is able to secure the endcap 1630 to the sides 1602, 1604, 1606 without penetrating an exterior surface of the sides 1602, 1604, 1606, which beneficially reduces the possibility of liquid entering the electrical gutter 1600 via an opening for an anchor. In some embodiments, a joint section is configured with tab slots 1666 and bosses 1662 similar to those of an endcap 1630. In other embodiments, the tabs 1664 and tab slots 1666 as well as the anchor sockets 1660 and bosses 1662 are reversed so that the tab slots 1666 and bosses 1662 are on the sides 1602, 1604, 1606 and the tab slots 1666 and anchor sockets 1660 are on the endcaps 1630 and/or joint sections 118, 1718. In other embodiments, the sides 1602, 1604, 1606, 1608, endcap 1630, and/or joint section 118, 1718 are coupled together with another mechanism.

In some embodiments, the fourth side 1608 is shaped to first mate with the third side 1606 and then to mate with the second side 1604 prior to anchoring the fourth side 1608 to the second side 1604 via one or more anchors. In some embodiments, the fourth side 1608 includes a ridge 1658 along a top edge that mates with a slot on an underside of the third side 1606 that secures the top of the fourth side 1608 to the third side 1606 so that an end of the curved edge 1616 of the third side 1606 aligned with an exterior surface of the fourth side 1608 or overhangs the exterior surface of the fourth side 1608. In other embodiments, as depicted in FIGS. 16H, 16I, and 16K, the end of the curved edge 1616 is sloped downward with an edge on the fourth side 1608 and a matching upper edge of the fourth side 1608 is sloped upward so that a scam 1668 between the fourth side 1608 and the third side 1606 is angled to reduce entry of liquid into the electrical gutter 1600 via the seam 1668 between the third side 1606 and the fourth side 1608.

In some embodiments, at bottom edge 1669 of the fourth side 1608 mates to the second side 1604 on a bottom of the electrical gutter 1600 to prevent liquid rolling down the exterior surface of the fourth side 1608 from entering the electrical gutter 1600. In some embodiments, the bottom edge 1669 of the fourth side 1608 is angled and includes a lip 1667 that extends into a slot on the edge of the second side 1604 so that the tabs 1651 on the fourth side 1608 align with tab holes 1650 of the second side 1604 and a boss 1653 on the fourth side 1608 aligns with an anchor socket 1652 on the second side 1604.

In some embodiments, the fourth side 1608 is removable via one or more anchors. In some embodiments, the second side 1604 includes a boss 1653 that aligns with an anchor socket 1652 extending from the fourth side 1608 as depicted in FIGS. 16D and 16E. The boss 1653 and anchor socket 1652 are configured for a user to insert an anchor from the bottom of the electrical gutter 1600, through the boss 1653 in the second side 1604 into the anchor socket 1652 extending from the fourth side 1608 to secure the fourth side 1608 to the electrical gutter 1600. In other embodiments, the fourth side 1608 includes one or more tabs 1651 that are positioned to fit in tab holes 1650 in the second side 1604. In some embodiments, the tabs 1651 include a hook end that snaps into the tab holes 1650 prior to a user inserting an anchor into the boss 1653 and into the anchor socket 1652. In some embodiments, the tab holes 1650 are positioned in the interior portion that is interior to the raised lip 1674 and extend through the second side 1604 and may serve as weep holes.

In some embodiments, the exterior surface of the third side 1606 includes a drill zone 1624, as depicted in FIG. 16A, marking locations for drilling through the third side 1606 that avoid structure of the electrical gutter 1600, such as tabs, bosses, anchor sockets, etc. In other embodiments, the second side 1604 includes a drill zone 1624, as depicted in FIG. 16B. The drill zone 1624 of the second side 1604, in various embodiments, is also positioned to help a user avoid drilling into structure of the electrical gutter 1600 where drilling in the drill zone 1624 is typically a location that avoids damage to the structure of the electrical gutter 1600. In other embodiments, the endcap 1630, first side 1602, and/or fourth side 1608 also include a drill zone (not shown). The drill zones 1624 are substantially similar to the drill zones 124 of the electrical gutters 100, 200 described above.

FIG. 16M depicts protrusions 1672 on the first side of the electrical gutter 1600. While two protrusions 1672 are depicted, the embodiments described herein anticipate inclusion of additional protrusions 1672. The protrusions 1672, in some embodiments, are configured for shelves 128, vertical dividers 134, or the like, as discussed above in relation to the electrical gutters 100, 200 described above.

In some embodiments, the first side 1602 of the electrical gutter 1600 includes one or more anchor openings 1644. Each anchor opening 1644 configured for an anchor to connect the first side 1602 to a mounting surface. In the embodiments, the liquid channeling system includes one or more sealants 1640, 1642 on an exterior surface of the first side 1602 positioned to contact the mounting surface with the anchors securing the first side 1602 to the mounting surface. The one or more sealants 1640, 1642 are positioned to direct liquid between the first side 1602 and the mounting surface away from the one or more anchor openings 1644.

As used herein, a sealant is a material configured by way of positioning and/or physical makeup to divert liquid away from an opening, such as the one or more anchor openings 1644, the space between the first side 1602 and the mounting surface, or the like. In some embodiments, the sealants 1640, 1642 include a substance that molds to the surface of the mounting surface. In other embodiments, the sealants 1640, 1642 include a substance that is compressible. In other embodiments, the sealants 1640, 1642 include a material that is compressible and moldable.

In some embodiments, the sealants 1640, 1642 include a compressible portion and a scaling portion. In some embodiments, the compressible portion is made from a compressible material while the scaling portion is made from a material that spreads and engages any irregularities of material on the surface of the mounting surface. In various embodiments, the scaling portion is also compressible to some degree. In some examples, the mounting surface is concrete, wood, stucco, etc. with an irregular surface. The scaling portion spreads in and around small particles or other irregularities of the mounting surface to prevent liquid from passing through the scaling portion. In some embodiments, the sealing portion is a mastic, butyl, a resin, a caulk, or other material capable spreading in and around irregular surfaces of the roof. In some embodiments, the scaling portion remains pliable over time and is resistant to weather forces, such as heating, cooling, freezing, etc.

The compressible portion of the sealants 1640, 1642 compresses under load as anchors are secured through the anchor openings 1644 to the mounting surface. In some embodiments, the compressible portion of the sealants 1640, 1642 is an ethylene propylene diene monomer (“EDPM”) foam. In some examples, EDPM foam is a cellular EDPM rubber. In some embodiments, EDPM rubber is mixed with neoprene and styrene butadiene rubber (“SBR”) to create the EDPM foam. In some embodiments, the compressible portion also remains pliable over time and is resistant to weather forces, such as heating, cooling, freezing, etc. In other embodiments, the compressible portion is another substance, such as neoprene, a silicone sponge, nitrile, or other suitable material. In other embodiments, the sealants 1640, 1642 are a single material that is compressible and seals against the mounting surface, such as a butyl rubber or other substance. Typically, the compressible portion and the sealing portion are bonded to form sealants 1640, 1642 that are available as a single unit to be applied to the first side 1602. In other embodiments, the sealing portion and the compressible portion are separate.

In some embodiments, the sealants 1640, 1642 are uniform rather than having a separate compressible portion and a sealing portion. In the embodiments, the sealants 1640, 1642 are compressible and is able to form a seal with the mounting surface and the first side 1602 and has some or all of the properties described above with regards to the compressible portion and the sealing portion.

In some embodiments, the each of the sealants 1640, 1642 is available as a uniform piece that is applied to the first side 1602 of the electrical gutter 1600. In some examples, each of the sealants 1640, 1642 is affixed to the exterior surface of the first side 1602. In other embodiments, the sealants 1640, 1642 include a sealant guide, which indicates a recommended location of a sealant by a user. In the embodiments, the sealants 1640, 1642 include a caulk or other similar substance that is applied to the first side 1602 by a user to the sealant guides. In some examples, the first side 1602 includes one or more sealant guides in the form of sealant recesses and the sealants 1640, 1642 are applied to the sealant recess. In such embodiments, the sealants 1640, 1642 may initially flow and may then harden into a flexible, resilient form. One of skill in the art will recognize other materials suitable for the sealants 1640, 1642.

In some embodiments, the mounting surface is vertical, the third side 1606 is a top side, and the one or more anchor openings 1644 include a plurality of anchor openings where at least two of the plurality of anchor openings 1644 are spaced horizontally along the first side 1602. As depicted in FIGS. 16C, 16N, 160, 16P, the first side 1602 includes four anchor openings 1644 with two anchor openings 1644 stacked in a column with two columns of anchor openings 1644. Other embodiments include anchor openings 1644 in other configurations with more or less than four anchor openings 1644.

In some embodiments, the first side 1602 includes a sealant 1640 with a first portion spanning horizontally above the plurality of anchor openings 1644 and second and third portions extending downward at ends of the first portion. In some embodiments, such as those depicted in FIGS. 16C, 16N, 160, 16P, the sealant 1640 includes a curve along the first horizontal portion, which is beneficial to direct liquid to the sides of the sealant 1640 and away from where the anchor openings 1644 are located. In other embodiments, the sealant 1640 is V-shaped. In other embodiments, the sealant 1640 is sloped to one side. In other embodiments, the sealant 1640 is level.

In some embodiments, the vertical second and third portions of the sealant 1640 extend to near a bottom of the first side 1602, as depicted in Figures such as those depicted in FIGS. 16C, 16N, 160, 16P. In other embodiments, the vertical second and third portions of the sealant 1640 extend partially down the first side 1602. In some embodiments, the vertical second and third portions of the sealant 1640 extend to or just below a level equal to the lowest anchor openings 1644. In other embodiments, the vertical second and third portions of the sealant 1640 extend to above a level equal to the lowest anchor openings 1644, which may be a level that makes horizontal travel of liquid to the anchor openings 1644 unlikely.

In other embodiments, the first side 1602 includes a sealant 1642 above one or more anchor openings 1644 of the plurality of anchor openings 1644 oriented vertically. In the embodiments, the sealant 1642 extends downward on either side of the one or more anchor openings 1644 oriented vertically. In various embodiments, the vertical portions of the sealant 1642 near the anchor openings 1644 extend to near the bottom of the first side 1602, to a level equal to or below the lowest anchor opening 1644, or to a level above the anchor openings 1644. In other embodiments, the first side 1602 includes one or more sealants 1640, 1642 shaped and positioned differently than depicted.

In some embodiments, the one or more anchor openings 1644 include an opening standoff that extends away from the exterior side of the first side 1602. In other embodiments, the first side 1602 includes one or more independent standoffs 1646 extending away from the exterior side of the first side 1602. In some embodiments, the opening standoffs extend away from the first side 1602 a different amount than the independent standoffs 1646. In other embodiments, the opening standoffs and the independent standoffs 1646 extend away from the first side 1602 an amount less than or equal to an amount the one or more sealants 1640, 1642 extend from the first side 1602. Where the anchor openings 1644 include an opening standoff and/or where the first side 1602 includes one or more independent standoffs 1646, the opening standoffs and independent standoffs 1646, in some embodiments, extend away from the first side 1602 a distance less than the sealants 1640, 1642 to allow some compression of the sealants 1640, 1642. In other embodiments, the opening standoffs and independent standoffs 1646 are sized to accommodate the sealants 1640, 1642 and/or when the sealants 1640, 1642 are partially or fully compressed. In other embodiments, the opening standoffs and independent standoffs 1646 accommodate small irregularities of the mounting surface. In some embodiments, the opening standoffs and independent standoffs 1646 include at least a portion that is pliable to accommodate the small irregularities.

While the independent standoffs 1646 are depicted in vertical lines, other embodiments include other configurations for the independent standoffs 1646. In some embodiments, the first side 1602 includes more or less independent standoffs 1646 than depicted in FIGS. 16C, 16N, 160, 16P. In other embodiments, the independent standoffs 1646 are shaped differently, such as smaller straight sections, round standoffs, square-shaped standoffs, diamond-shaped standoffs, or the like.

FIG. 18A is a back perspective view of three sides of an electrical gutter 1800 with a DIN rail 1802 on a back side, according to various embodiments. FIG. 18B is a back perspective view of three sides of an electrical gutter 1800 with a DIN rail 1802 on the back side in a different position, according to various embodiments. In some embodiments, instead of the sealants 1640,1642 and independent standoffs 1646 and anchor openings 1644 that protrude, the exterior side of the first side 1602 includes one or more DIN rails 1802, which may attach to a structure. While only a single DIN rail 1802 is depicted in FIGS. 18A and 18B, other embodiments include more DIN rails 1802.

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

OUTDOOR ELECTRICAL GUTTER

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