Electric Shock Hazard Protective Devices Patents (Class 174/5R)
  • Patent number: 6140588
    Abstract: An arrangement with a conductor (15) intended to be on a high potential and a part (12) connected to ground and separated therefrom by at least a voltage receiving air gap (16, 17), comprising an insulating envelope (18) surrounding said conductor and at least a first member (9) of electrical insulating material arranged to screen off said ground part from said conductor. Said air gap is dimensioned to get such a high electrical field strength by possible sudden, strong voltage raises of said conductor, that air molecules in said air gap will be ionized. Said insulating envelope (18) and the insulating member (9) have surfaces arranged to receive electrical charges generated through said ionizing for creating a voltage over their thicknesses and decreasing the voltage drop in the air gap between the conductor (15) and the ground part (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2000
    Assignee: Asea Brown Boveri AB
    Inventors: Stefan Valdemarsson, Anders Bjorklund, Mats Leijon, Tommy Holmgren, Dan Windmar, Urban Astrom
  • Patent number: 6137689
    Abstract: A protective enclosure apparatus includes a base and a cover. The base includes a plurality of pins each including cap portion. The cap portion includes a contact surface. A cover includes a plurality of cover openings formed therein for receiving the pins and a latch portion communicating with each of the cover openings. The latch portion is angled to allow an end portion of the latch portion to engage with the contact surface and to allow the latch portion to be biased toward the plurality pins when the cover is pulled away from the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2000
    Assignee: 3Com Corporation
    Inventors: Kevin J. Schechtel, David R. Zeiger, Michael B. Grimm
  • Patent number: 6094792
    Abstract: A cover installation apparatus installs continuous lengths of flashover protection covers around energized electrical power lines. The apparatus includes a cover assembly housing that takes a flat, extruded length of material and forms the material into a closed circular shape surrounding a power line. The cover assembly housing includes opposite first and second ends, with an inlet port in the first end and an outlet port in the second end. An interior passageway extends along a longitudinal direction from the inlet port to the outlet port and is configured to receive the power line therethrough. The interior passageway also provides a path for the flexible panel to follow from an uninstalled configuration to an installed configuration surrounding the power line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2000
    Inventors: Terry Edward Frye, Donald C. Barrett
  • Patent number: 6011219
    Abstract: An aerial rat/rodent guard for residential/commercial utility wires and cables and the like. A barrier plate manufactured from lightweight, non-conductive, smooth surfaced materials molded into a tear drop shaped plate. The center slot is located above the center of gravity allowing the plate's upright position. Removable grommets in the center slot provides the size of the center slot to be adjusted to the size of the utility wire upon which it hangs. A slit opening from the center slot downward to the bottom of the plate provides easy installation. Weight molded into the bottom quarter of the barrier plate allows the barrier plate to return to an upright position if tampered with by a rat/rodent. With the slit closed, a tail clip is attached to the bottom of the barrier plate which locks the slit in a closed position. Once mounted on the wires or cables, without the necessity of tools, the aerial rat/rodent guard does not need to be removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2000
    Inventor: Jacqueline M. Casmero
  • Patent number: 6005196
    Abstract: The triggered wildlife guard is formed from first and second body sections hinged together to pivot between an open and a closed position. In the closed position, the first and second body sections latch together to form a hollow body open at a first end and having a top wall at a second end which defines a conductor opening. A spring assembly biases the first and second body sections toward the closed position, and a releasable trigger extends between the first and second body sections to hold them in the open position until the trigger is released. A wire stop formed on the first and second body sections bridges a gap therebetween in the open position to retain a bushing lead wire in the conductor opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 21, 1999
    Assignee: Central Moloney, Inc.
    Inventor: Jim R. Spillyards
  • Patent number: 5998731
    Abstract: The lightning rod of the present invention is an absorbed type lightning rod which absorbs all lightning stroke current. This absorbed type lightning rod includes a conductive pole, a circular cone-shaped primary rod having an acute point, placed on the top of the pole, and a secondary rod having an acute point lower than that of the primary rod. In this lightning rod, the lightning induction of the primary rod is enhanced by the secondary rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1999
    Assignee: Etsuko Takamura
    Inventor: Mitsunori Takamura
  • Patent number: 5979837
    Abstract: A mobile overhead cable distribution system for an office or the like, comprising a plurality of horizontally elongate cable supporting elements connected horizontally in series and supporting thereon horizontally extending power and communication cables. A plurality of mobile and freestanding post assemblies are rollingly supported on a floor and projecting upwardly for supportive engagement with the cable supporting members to maintain the cable supporting members in upwardly spaced relation above the floor. Each serially-connected pair of cable supporting members has adjacent end connecting parts which are horizontally swingably supported on one of the upright posts adjacent an upper end thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1999
    Assignee: Haworth, Inc.
    Inventor: Clarkson S. Thorp
  • Patent number: 5906004
    Abstract: A textile fabric including a plurality of electrically conductive fibers characterized as providing sufficient current to induce either a wired or wireless coupling between the textile fabric and a portable electronic device. The textile fabric is intended for fabrication into a functional article of clothing or other item made of the woven textile fabric, so as to increase functionality of the article of clothing or item made thereof. The plurality of electrically conductive fibers are characterized as creating an interconnect to a portable electronic device, including integrated components, electronics, or the like, or serving as an antenna for signals received and transmitted by the portable electronic device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 25, 1999
    Assignee: Motorola, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael S. Lebby, Karen E. Jachimowicz
  • Patent number: 5834686
    Abstract: A generally disc-shaped polymeric insulating article (14) is in two parts to fit around the core (4) of an insulator (2). A first part (22) of the article (14) is substantially C-shaped to fit around the insulator core (4), and the second part comprises an insert (30) that slidably engages the first part (22) so as to secure the article in place. The article (14) projects a substantial distance radially from the insulator (2) to prevent animals and the like, bridging the length of, and thus electrically short circuiting, the insulator (2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 10, 1998
    Assignee: Raychem Limited
    Inventors: Donald Christopher Barrett, Michael Robert Cook, Matthew Spalding
  • Patent number: 5824948
    Abstract: A safety shield to prevent an accidental shorting of an electrical device if the electrical device is removed or inserted into a junction box during a power on condition with the shield removably fastened to the electrical device and having an electrically insulating material extending over exposed electrical leads on the electrical device to prevent accidental contact between the electrical leads and the grounded junction box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 20, 1998
    Inventor: Gordon Berg
  • Patent number: 5798482
    Abstract: A new Lightning Protection Device for providing protection to individuals against lightning strikes. The inventive device includes a plurality of electrically conducting bands being spaced apart and extending outwardly and downwardly either from a center post over the canopy support frame of a golf cart or from a plurality of spaced apart ribs radiating outwardly from the ferrule of an umbrella. The electrically conducting bands extend downwardly in an elongated configuration to terminate at or near ground level. The electrically conducting bands together with the center post or the ferrule form an electrically conducting cage or envelope to surround the user within an electrically protected volume of space in the event of a lightning strike.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 25, 1998
    Inventor: Michael John Reeves
  • Patent number: 5796032
    Abstract: A device for opening of an electrical wire insulating cover allowing access to the interior walls of the insulating cover for purposes of inspection or cleaning. A preferred embodiment teaches a one piece rigid structure formed from a first wall having a semi-circular longitudinally rolled shape spaced apart from a second sidewall having a mirror shaped semi-circular longitudinally rolled formation wherein each sidewall forms a partial cavity allowing for placement of the leading edge of an electric insulating cover. The sidewalls are spaced apart by use of either an adjustable or fixed saddle portion which is used in biasing the outer surface of the insulating cover while the leading edges of the cover are placed within partial cavities. Upon placement, the insulating cover is maintained in an open position allowing inspection of the interior chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 18, 1998
    Inventor: William A. Hadley
  • Patent number: 5753854
    Abstract: A device and method are provided for installing fire-proof material quickly and easily. The fire-proof material, once installed, inhibits the spread of igniting material across an annular space surrounding an object. A device according to the invention includes a blanket made of a fire-resistant material. In a preferred embodiment, this material is silica fabric. A plurality of ribs are attached at spaced-apart locations along the length of the blanket, each rib extending substantially the width of the blanket. Each rib, in a first condition, permits one side of the blanket to be brought into contact with the object, and in a second condition, holds the blanket in place around the object. The ribs are preferably snap strips that have two stable orientations: an extended stable orientation, which corresponds to the first condition, and a curled stable orientation, which corresponds to the second condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 19, 1998
    Assignee: Polytrap Co. Inc.
    Inventors: William J. Richards, Sherman T. Whipple
  • Patent number: 5742000
    Abstract: The risk of personal injury to personnel working inside energized pad-mounted transformers is reduced by providing a universally sized safety shield device that fits in place during repair operations to prevent a workman's tool from contacting the transformer face. The shield device takes the form of a rigid sheet of dielectric material having sufficient insulative value to prevent arcing inside the transformer. The shield has three slots opening to an edge of the shield with the three slots being so sized and shaped to permit them to slide over the secondary bushings to locate and hold the safety shield in place during repair operations. The shield is used in association with a pair of novel insulative bushing covers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 21, 1998
    Assignee: Carolina Power & Light Company
    Inventor: Sammie D. Stevens
  • Patent number: 5736038
    Abstract: An apparatus for patient safety protection in a medical device with a heater. A heater configuration for a medical device, such as a haemodialysis machine, is disclosed in which a shock hazard to the patient from the heater elements due to a single fault condition is eliminated. The invention comprises an insulation layer formed between the heater elements and a grounded metal plate. A single fault condition is prevented from creating a shock hazard to the patient (which is considered to be the dialyser fluid) because any break down of the insulation layer which brings the heater elements 14 into contact with the grounded metal plate will result in a large current flowing to ground (rather than to the patient), thereby causing a fuse in the circuit to trip. Tripping of the fuse removes power from the heating elements, thereby preventing any further possibility of contact between the live electrical heater element and the dialyser fluid (i.e. the patient).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 7, 1998
    Assignee: United Medical Manufacturing Co.
    Inventor: John W. Stoughton
  • Patent number: 5682015
    Abstract: The invention relates to a shield which prevents squirrels or other animals from causing faults in power distribution substations. Switch and bus insulators are primary points of contact when a small animal crawls from a grounded, supporting structure across an insulator to an energized conductor. The present invention provides for a barrier on switch and bus insulators which prevents animals from coming into contact with a grounded structure and an energized conductor simultaneously, thus eliminating a ground path from the energized conductor through the animal to the grounded structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 28, 1997
    Assignee: Georgia Power Company
    Inventor: Michael Harben
  • Patent number: 5679922
    Abstract: The invention relates to a shield which prevents squirrels or other animals from causing faults in power distribution substations. Switch and bus insulators are primary points of contact when a small animal crawls from a grounded, supporting structure across an insulator to an energized conductor. The present invention provides for a barrier on switch and bus insulators which prevents animals from coming into contact with a grounded structure and an energized conductor simultaneously, thus eliminating a ground path from the energized conductor through the animal to the grounded structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 21, 1997
    Assignee: Georgia Power Company
    Inventor: Michael Harben
  • Patent number: 5666253
    Abstract: A protective shield adapted to be clamped to an electrical hot stick of the type used for performing electrical work on various types of energized electrical equipment. The protective shield includes a transparent plate formed of an impact resistant plastic material and a clamping mechanism for securing the plate to a hot stick. An opening in the plate allows for passage of the hot stick through the plate, afterwhich a pivotally mounted clamp arm and bolt arm are secured together about the hot stick. The protective shield provides physical protection to linemen working in live-line or deenergized maintenance situations by acting as a barrier between the lineman and the equipment while providing complete visibility to the task being performed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 9, 1997
    Assignee: Gary Guard, Inc.
    Inventors: Gary L. Whited, James R. Stillwagon, Randall A. Maxey
  • Patent number: 5591937
    Abstract: A transmission cable system that incorporates cooling channels that encircles electrical conductors with coolant. The transmission cable system also provides for breach or leak detection. More specifically, the transmission cable system maybe used with an inductive charging system that transfers electric power from a power source to batteries of an electric vehicle. The cable system includes a cooling system for storing, cooling, and pumping coolant, and a pressure sensitive switch for determining the pressure in the cooling system and for providing an output signal indicative of a drop in sensed pressure. A controller is coupled to the pressure sensitive switch that is responsive to the output signal from the switch for shutting down the inductive charging system in the event of a drop in sensed pressure. The transmission cable is electrically coupled between the power source and the electric vehicle for coupling electrical power to the batteries.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 7, 1997
    Assignee: Hughes Aircraft Company
    Inventors: George R. Woody, Stephen J. Hulsey
  • Patent number: 5548522
    Abstract: A modular wiring system using a plurality of field interface devices modularly selectively interconnected by wire bundles with redundant capacity to form a network of field interface devices each connected to a reference circuit, maintained at near-zero ground through a fluid electrolyte flowing through a grounded electrically-conducting pipe to which each field interface device is connected, is continually controlled by a central microprocessor that monitors electrical load and modifies connections of wires between bundles through switches within each field interface device to optimize load distribution within the system. Electrolyte flowing in conductive pipes is charged as it neutralizes potential differences between the field interface devices. The electrolyte is deposited in a grounded reservoir in which the electrolyte discharges its charge to anodes and cathodes therein in the manner of a battery, thereby extracting energy of the electrolyte before the electrolyte is pumped back into the ground pipes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 20, 1996
    Inventor: Indru J. Primlani
  • Patent number: 5473116
    Abstract: A high-voltage anti-corona connector and method of use rely upon a hand-rtable wheel which is attachable to a threaded stud on a mounting flange for rapidly connecting and disconnecting an adaptor plate to a helix coil of a radio frequency transmit system. The handle of the wheel is ring shaped to preventing corona discharge from the area surrounding the connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 5, 1995
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: James R. Humphrey, Steven C. Tietsworth
  • Patent number: 5391834
    Abstract: A protective cover for electrical controls has planar upper & lower portions separated by an offset portion that spaces the lower portion outwardly from the upper portion. An enlarged aperture in the upper portion adjacent the offset portion provides access to a temperature setting adjustment on the control. Latches project rearwardly from the upper portion adjacent the aperture and an apertured tongue projects rearwardly from the top end of the cover for attaching the cover to the control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 21, 1995
    Assignee: Therm-O-Disc, Incorporated
    Inventor: Donald E. Place
  • Patent number: 5293844
    Abstract: A water heater comprising a tank for holding water, a jacket surrounding the tank, foam insulation between the tank and the jacket, a heating element for heating water in the tank, and a thermostat mounted on the tank for controlling the heating element in response to the temperature of water in the tank. The thermostat includes electrically active terminals, leadwires connected to the terminals, an electric circuit reset, and a temperature adjustment dial. The water heater also comprises a protective shield for covering the terminal and preventing foam contact with the terminal. The shield includes a face portion covering the thermostat in spaced relation to the tank. The face portion comprises a first access port for providing operator access to the circuit reset cutoff, and a second access port spaced from the first access port for providing operator access to the temperature adjustment dial. The shield also includes sidewall portions extending between the face portion and the tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 15, 1994
    Assignee: AOS Holding Company
    Inventor: Gary S. Threatt
  • Patent number: 5275459
    Abstract: An electrically insulated truck cover manipulator assembly which includes two arms, a drive mechanism, and a tie-rod. The tie-rod is attached both to a flexible cover which moves longitudinally along the length of a truck body or trailer and to the two arms. In one embodiment, the arms each include an upper support member and a lower support member joined by an electrically insulating connector. Both the upper and lower support members may be filled with dielectric foam. The drive mechanism moves the arms about a pivot causing the tie-rod joining the upper ends of the upper support members to pull the flexible cover over the length of the truck trailer or body and its contents. In the event either of the upper support members or the tie-rod makes contact with overhead power lines during operation, the insulating connectors prevent electricity from flowing from the upper support members to the lower support members and thus to the truck frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 1992
    Date of Patent: January 4, 1994
    Assignee: Pioneer Consolidated Corporation
    Inventor: Edward N. Haddad, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5153383
    Abstract: A flexible sheet of material for mounting about a vertical or horizontal type porcelain insulator of electrical equipment to physically protect the insulator from falling objects during maintenance when the electrical equipment is deenergized. The sheet is formed of flexible PVC material and is foldable into a conical configuration and secured about the insulator by VELCRO strips attached to the sheet. Additional rectangularly- shaped sheets of similar material also are provided with VELCRO fasteners are formed into a cylindrical configuration and placed around the insulator and secured to the conically wrapped sheet to provide physical protector for taller porcelain insulators.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 1991
    Date of Patent: October 6, 1992
    Assignee: Gary Guard, Inc.
    Inventors: Gary L. Whited, James R. Stillwagon
  • Patent number: 5077448
    Abstract: A shield member for attachment to a conventional insulative line stick as used by power linesmen and other electrical staff working on high voltage distribution lines protects the user of a line stick when closing cut-out assembly doors and engaging in similar activities. The shield member protects against the ejection of fuses or the blowing out or explosion of fuses. The shield member, in the form of a plate, clips onto the line stick, for example, by spring clip members attached to one arm of a bracket, another arm of the bracket being attached to the shield member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 31, 1991
    Inventor: Philip B. Andrew
  • Patent number: 4998414
    Abstract: An air conditioning system is disclosed which includes a compressor, a condenser, an evaporator, a first fan for the condenser, and a second fan for the evaporator. A case which encloses at least the compressor, the condenser, the evaporator, the first fan and the second fan comprises an inner housing, and an outer housing which encloses the inner housing. Exposed portions which project on the outer surface of the outer housing and the outer housing are made of insulating materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 1989
    Date of Patent: March 12, 1991
    Assignee: Sanden Corporation
    Inventor: Shigenao Tomimatsu
  • Patent number: 4985599
    Abstract: A bushing cap is provided for mounting to a transformer bushing or to a lightening arrestor. The bushing cap when mounted to the bushing acts as an umbrella for the bushing to protect the same from airborne contaminates such as salt spray which can form a conductive surface on the bushing, while providing adequate bottom and side clearance from the bushing to ensure that a conductive surface between the cap and the bushing is avoided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 1988
    Date of Patent: January 15, 1991
    Inventor: Robert E. Eggleston
  • Patent number: 4943448
    Abstract: A system applying a coating material to surfaces situated adjacent to or on live, high voltage electrical bus work or the like utilizes a liquified coating material stored in containers and is electrically isolated from potential ground sources by a dielectric barrier. A pump means draws the coating material from the containers and transports the coating material through a conduit formed of a dielectrical material to a moveable cart supporting an applicator boom thereon which applies the coating material to the surfaces. The pump means is driven by compressed air which provides the pumps with a nonconductive fluid drive source eliminating an electrical potential or a potential ground source in the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 1988
    Date of Patent: July 24, 1990
    Assignee: Leaksealers, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert C. Lacourciere
  • Patent number: 4906801
    Abstract: A cover for application to a top surface and adjacent portion of the sidewall of a distribution transformer to prevent electrical shorting across the top surface and sidewall portion. The cover comprises an electrically non-conductive material which electrically insulates the transformer top surface and sidewall portion. An aperture is provided in the cover to accommodate a terminal of the transformer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 1989
    Date of Patent: March 6, 1990
    Inventor: Tania M. Beasley
  • Patent number: 4879441
    Abstract: A dielectric barrier system for a vacuum switch is disclosed comprising: a dielectric barrier having three generally flat elongated rectangular walls, and means for holding the barrier at a spaced distance apart from the vacuum switch and from a high voltage conductor which is disposed at a spaced distance from the sides of the switch and along a path which includes a position which is generally adjacent to the opposite end to which the conductor is connected to the vacuum switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 1988
    Date of Patent: November 7, 1989
    Assignee: Cooper Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Sidney R. Hamm, Ronald A. Wainio
  • Patent number: 4845307
    Abstract: A wildlife guard, designed to prevent an electrically grounded animal, such as a bird or small mammal, from contacting energized electrical equipment. A one-piece construction fabricated from an insulating material, such as a high-density polyethylene, the wildlife guard can be installed on energized electrical equipment using standard live-line tools, thereby obviating the need to shut down the electrical power. The guard includes inner protrusions to fit below the topmost skirt of an insulator bushing, outer protrusions to be grabbed by a live-line tool, and a lengthwise slot through which a conductor is forced during installation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 1988
    Date of Patent: July 4, 1989
    Assignee: Fargo Mfg. Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Carl P. Cumming, Russell H. Kraft
  • Patent number: 4727220
    Abstract: An apparatus for covering electrical equipment which is connected to busbars of a bus system and has a maximum structural height, and wherein the upper sides of the busbars are equidistantly spaced from the clamping faces of holders for receiving and firmly retaining the busbars. A universally applicable cover which is not attached to the individual pieces of electrical equipment, but is adapted to be affixed to the busbars, is provided in that the cover is in the form of a cap having a rectangular cross section and comprising a cover plate and side walls. One pair of side walls extends parallel to the busbars and has an internal height with respect to the cover plate which corresponds to at least the sum of the fastening distance and the structural height.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 1987
    Date of Patent: February 23, 1988
    Assignee: Rittal-Werk Rudolf Loh GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Hans Wagener
  • Patent number: 4707562
    Abstract: A protection barrier is adapted to be placed on an insulator of a high voltage power pole to prevent a workman from contacting components of the pole when working on an energized conductor. A base plate of dielectric material is formed with a V-shaped slot and is placed on the insulator with the apex of the slot being located between adjacent skirts of a post type insulator. A pair of dielectric locking plates are pivotally mounted on the base plate and when in an open position permit the insulator to enter into the V-shaped slot and when in closed position lock the base plate on the insulator. The locking plates have aligned curved notches which form a generally circular-shaped opening when in closed position and which align with the apex of the V-shaped slot. Curved surfaces of the notches engage the insulator when the base plate is placed thereon to positively move the locking plates into clamping position about the insulator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 1986
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1987
    Inventor: Gary L. Whited
  • Patent number: 4641223
    Abstract: A combination of a control arrangement and a protective shield, the protective shield and methods of making the same are provided, the combination comprising a control arrangement having a housing unit provided with certain external electrical parts and a one-piece protective shield carried by the housing unit and having a section thereof covering the certain external electrical parts. The section of the protective shield is movable relative to the remainder of the shield between a first position thereof that covers the certain external electrical parts and a second position thereof that uncovers the certain external electrical parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 1985
    Date of Patent: February 3, 1987
    Assignee: Robertshaw Controls Company
    Inventor: Harold A. McIntosh
  • Patent number: 4637575
    Abstract: A work platform and helicopter assembly for working on a high-voltage power line such as an EHV power line. A work platform comprising a rectangular base of electrically conductive material is disposed transversely across a pair of helicopter skid tubes that extend longitudinally beneath the helicopter fuselage. The work platform is attached to the skid tubes such that the skid tubes may be laterally displaceable, upon landing, or take-off, with respect to the work platform. The work platform includes a workman supporting portion that extends laterally from the side of at least one skid tube to support a workman working on a high-voltage power line. The work platform, skid tubes and helicopter are electrically connected so that they will all be at the same electrical potential when working on a power line. The work platform may include a portion adapted to carry cargo between the skid tubes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 1984
    Date of Patent: January 20, 1987
    Inventor: Scott H. Yenzer
  • Patent number: 4628145
    Abstract: An improved protective cover adapted to be suspended on an energized electrical conductor or insulator to protect workmen in the vicinity of the conductor. In one embodiment, the cover is an elongated tubular-shaped member formed by concentrically arranged inner and outer housings maintained in a spaced relationship by a plurality of spacers which provide and maintain an insulating air gap therebetween. A central sleeve is concentrically mounted within the inner housing and together with portions of the inner and outer housings forms a spiral passageway for suspending the cover on a conductor by engagement of the conductor with an inner concave surface of the central sleeve. The inner concave surface of the central sleeve is covered with a conductive material which reduces the strength of the electrical field stress surrounding the energized conductor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 1985
    Date of Patent: December 9, 1986
    Inventors: Nestor Kolcio, Richard A. Peszlen
  • Patent number: 4615113
    Abstract: A pilfer proofing system and method for electric meter boxes having a meter base box, which carries a plug-in terminal block set and a meter box cover having an opening through which a plug-in-meter passes to engage contact jaws or sockets the terminal block set. An anchoring bar is secured to the meter stops and a conventional meter locking collar is secured to the cover and the bridge of the locking collar is secured to the anchoring bar. Metal extension adaptors are secured to the meter blades for entering into the contact jaws or sockets of the terminal block set and a conventional locking ring is utilized to lock the meter in place on the added meter collar thereby providing a substantial obstacle to easy pilfering of electricity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 1985
    Date of Patent: October 7, 1986
    Inventor: Robert B. Fennel
  • Patent number: 4588851
    Abstract: A quick assembly shield for electrically insulating the front surface of an electrical control device includes a flexible generally rectangular body having a top retainer including a step for engaging the lip of a lug on the top surface of the control device. A pair of laterally interfering surfaces are provided for longitudinally aligning the shield with respect to the underlining control device. A spaced pair of inwardly facing catches engage in snap fashion a laterally spaced pair of lugs on the lower surface of the control device. The shield can be quickly and positively engaged with the underlying control device yet still provide access to permit variance in temperature or other control functions as required.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 1985
    Date of Patent: May 13, 1986
    Assignee: Williams Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Donald R. Turner
  • Patent number: 4554616
    Abstract: A combination of a control arrangement and a protective shield, the protective shield and methods of making the same are provided, the combination comprising a control arrangement having a housing unit provided with certain external electrical parts and a one-piece protective shield carried by the housing unit and having a section thereof covering the certain external electrical parts. The section of the protective shield is movable relative to the remainder of the shield between a first position thereof that covers the certain external electrical parts and a second position thereof that uncovers the certain external electrical parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 1984
    Date of Patent: November 19, 1985
    Assignee: RobertShaw Controls Company
    Inventor: Harold A. McIntosh
  • Patent number: 4543445
    Abstract: An electrically insulative shield is disclosed for engaging and covering a device in an electrical circuit. The shield includes a generally planar portion having first, second and third edges. When the shield is engaged to the device, these edges correspond generally in position to the first, second and third sides of the electrical device. A first gripping member extends outwardly from the planar portion adjacent the first edge. The gripping member includes an apertured portion for receiving a projection formed on the first side of the device. A first outwardly extending gripping hook member is provided adjacent the second edge. The first hook member grips a projection adjacent the second side of the device. A second outwardly extending gripping hook member is provided adjacent the third edge of the planar portion. The second hook member grips a projection adjacent the third side of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 1984
    Date of Patent: September 24, 1985
    Assignee: Williams Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Donald R. Turner
  • Patent number: 4459597
    Abstract: An isolator assembly for isolating a transmitting and receiving communications antenna member from a mast and connector. The isolator assembly electrically couples an antenna member to a connector for passage of radio frequency energy but also electrically isolates the antenna member from the connector and the mast from a high voltage on the antenna member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 1981
    Date of Patent: July 10, 1984
    Assignee: Orion Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Herbert R. Blaese
  • Patent number: 4453353
    Abstract: A guy wire protector comprises an elongated tube having a pair of registering free edges to receive a guy wire. A generally tubular clip is integral with and extends from the tube interior wall snugly receives and retainingly engages the guy wire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 1981
    Date of Patent: June 12, 1984
    Assignee: Robin Products Company
    Inventors: Bradley V. Killop, Robert R. Rogers
  • Patent number: 4449010
    Abstract: An apparatus for providing a guard against electrical shock near an insulator carrying an energized, exposed conductor. In particular, this apparatus is intended for providing protection from electrical shock by providing a slotted insulator cover having means for moveably coupling a line guard thereto, said coupling means comprising a slotted ball and socket arrangement connected to the insulator cover and having a line guard adapter secured to the moveable portion of the ball and socket arrangement. By varying the degree to which the socket covers the ball, the degree of movement of the line guard adapter is defined. By closely fitting the socket to the ball, the insulator cover can be secured to the insulator by disaligning the slotted portions of the ball and socket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 1982
    Date of Patent: May 15, 1984
    Assignee: Hastings Fiber Glass Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth P. Apperson, Cecil D. Morgan
  • Patent number: 4388484
    Abstract: Oil-resistant resilient mats to protect oil field workers from dangerous, high voltage electrical discharge comprise a first oil-resistant flexible resilient elastomer of extremely high dielectric strength which is usable by itself as a mat and also in combination with other oil-resistant elastomers of higher mechanical strength but less dielectric strength at high voltages and with metallic electrically conductive meshes to equalize mechanical and electrical stress across the first elastomer.The combination of metallic mesh and elastomer of high electrical resistance at high voltage provides mechanically strong and oil resistant mats that protect personnel in oil fields against high voltage and surges. The high mechanical strength elastomer layers mechanically protect the conductive wire mesh as well as the first elastomer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 1981
    Date of Patent: June 14, 1983
    Inventor: Gerald O. York
  • Patent number: 4280013
    Abstract: A two piece, open-ended, telescopically interfitted, synthetic resin insulative protective cover for one or more pin-type or post-type, conductor-supporting insulators is provided which has a configuration for substantially enveloping such insulators to thereby minimize the risk of inadvertent contact with the energized conductor, while also being easily installable using conventional hot-line tools by a lineman remote from the conductor and associated equipment. The cover preferably includes two separate sections which are individually installed and axially telescoped together over the insulator to give the complete cover. Each section has walls defining an elongated, insulator-receiving space and a longitudinal slot between the opposed bottom wall portions thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 1980
    Date of Patent: July 21, 1981
    Assignee: A. B. Chance Company
    Inventor: Melvin E. Clutter
  • Patent number: 4255608
    Abstract: Apparatus is disclosed for preventing a person from coming into dangerously close proximity with an earth-embedded temporary electrical grounding rod so as to lessen the likelihood of electrical shock in the event of a fault current. The overall protective device of the invention includes an earth-embedded, temporary, electrical grounding rod, a mounting collar threadably secured to the upper end of the grounding rod, and a plurality of insulative, elongated struts removably secured to the collar and extending outwardly and obliquely therefrom. A perimeter-defining rope element extends about the grounding rod in a laterally spaced, elevated position relative thereto, and is supported by the oblique struts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 1979
    Date of Patent: March 10, 1981
    Assignee: A. B. Chance Company
    Inventors: Mahlon L. Bosch, Jason S. Kehl
  • Patent number: 4234753
    Abstract: An improved electrical conductor cover is provided which essentially completely surrounds an energized conductor and is resistant to inadvertent, impact-induced dislocation of the cover during use. The cover includes an elongated, tubular, conductor-receiving section and a pair of ribbed, normally biased-together legs extending from the section. The legs normally are in abutting engagement, but can be separated for positioning the cover on a conductor; the ribs are spaced along the length of the legs and serve to cooperatively maintain the conductor within the tubular section even in the event of an accidental impact normally tending to spread the legs and thus expose the covered conductor. The cover also includes a molded-in-place, threaded head which projects only through the outer surface of the cover for allowing connection of a manipulative handle to the cover without the need for rivets or the like which extend completely through the insulative wall of the cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 1979
    Date of Patent: November 18, 1980
    Assignee: A. B. Chance Company
    Inventor: Melvin E. Clutter
  • Patent number: 4159395
    Abstract: A self-locking cable guard for mechanically protecting an aerial cable from damage by squirrels and other animals comprises a longitudinally elongated body having an inverted-V cross section with the legs of the V bent inwardly toward each other to form bent leg sections so as to define a substantially enclosed cavity for receiving and locking onto the aerial cable. The bent leg sections are specifically configured and spaced apart by a predetermined distance to define an expandable resilient spaced gap which facilitates snap-on installation of the guard and at the same time prevents access to the enclosed cable by a squirrel's jaws.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 1977
    Date of Patent: June 26, 1979
    Assignee: Bell Telephone Laboratories, Incorporated
    Inventor: Nicholas J. Cogelia
  • Patent number: 4146291
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for protecting sensitive electronic components housed within a portable electronic component against damage due to the discharge of accumulated static charges. The electrical connector components are electrically isolated and housed within an insulative receptacle having very low conducting properties within the portable electronic component. The coacting electrical connector components are housed in a similar insulative conductive housing. The insulative housings are dimensioned to require physical contact between the two for a preselected time interval effective to discharge any static charge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 1977
    Date of Patent: March 27, 1979
    Assignee: MSI Data Corporation
    Inventors: David A. Goff, Larry S. Edman