With Box Supporting Means Patents (Class 174/63)
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Patent number: 7572976Abstract: There is provided a quick connect electrical box assembly that can be attached to a construction member such as a wall stud. The electrical box includes a box frame and a box back. The box frame and box back each include reciprocal snap connectors so that the frame can be joined to the back. Channels are configured in the box back, and conductor rails are positioned in these rails. Common electrical wires, such as are founded in three-strand bundled power lines, can be stripped of their insulation and placed in the rails. The rails, formed of conductive material such as copper, then form an electrical connection within the box. Using this box an electrician can quickly and efficiently bring power to a location during rough assembly. Later, during finish electrical work, the electrician can also plug devices such as switches and plugs into the box. The switches and plugs, configured with prongs, make electrical connection with the rails and thereby receive power.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 2008Date of Patent: August 11, 2009Inventor: Victor Merrill
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Patent number: 7544887Abstract: An electrical junction box includes a casing body and a lower cover to be attached to the casing body. Slant portions are provided on lower and upper end edges of opposite side walls of the casing body and lower cover. The slant portions extending downward from a first side to a second side. A double wall structure including an outer peripheral wall and an inner peripheral wall is formed on the casing body along the lower end edges including the slant portions of the casing body. A distal end of the inner peripheral wall projects over that of the outer peripheral wall. The inner peripheral wall is provided on the projecting-over section with guide ribs protruding toward the outer peripheral wall. An engaging rib that contacts a lower end of the outer peripheral wall is provided on upper end edges on opposite side walls of the lower cover. The upper end edges of the lower cover are opposed to the lower end edges on opposite sides of the casing body.Type: GrantFiled: October 1, 2007Date of Patent: June 9, 2009Assignee: Sumitomo Wiring Systems, Ltd.Inventor: Tetsuya Iizuka
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Patent number: 7541539Abstract: An apparatus and method for mounting a device in a wall box is provided. The apparatus includes a base plate formed by a front portion and a plurality of side portions extending to the rear to define a substantially open rear portion, and a latching mechanism coupled to the base plate. The front portion is connected to the device. The base plate is configured to be at least partially inserted into the wall box. The latching mechanism includes a frictional engagement member configured to frictionally engage with the wall box upon insertion into the wall box.Type: GrantFiled: July 9, 2008Date of Patent: June 2, 2009Assignee: AMX LLCInventor: Phong Le
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Patent number: 7531744Abstract: The present invention is directed to an electrical wiring box that includes a wiring device interface portion having a substantially planar member configured to accommodate a structural member on a first side and a rim portion extending from a perimeter of the planar member from a second side thereof to form an enclosed volume. The rim portion has a rim width approximately equal to a width of a sheet of drywall. The wiring device interface portion also includes a plurality of fastener apertures. A fastener storage structure includes a plurality of fastener storage holders extending in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first side of the planar member. The fastener storage holders and the planar member are configured to accommodate the structural member therebetween. Each fastener storage holder includes a fastener holder opening accessible from the second side.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 2007Date of Patent: May 12, 2009Assignee: Pass & Seymour, Inc.Inventor: Richard M. Rohmer
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Patent number: 7518061Abstract: A recessed electrical box with a closeable cover member and at least one outward extending flange. The flange serves as a positioning arrangement to recess the electrical box at the correct depth with respect to the surface in which it will be mounted. The recessed electrical box is comprised of two pieces, including a one-piece electrical box and a one-piece cover member. An inner flange may be included for positioning the recessed electrical box with respect to the outer surface of the substrate on an unfinished building. The inner flange is removable to facilitate installation on a finished building, in which the finish layer such as siding or stucco is installed. The recessed electrical box may include a second, outer flange, for recessing the box at the correct depth with respect to a wall surface.Type: GrantFiled: October 1, 2008Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Assignee: Arlington Industries, Inc.Inventor: Thomas J. Gretz
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Publication number: 20090078443Abstract: The disclosed inventions relate generally to electrical boxes that may be installed to a ceiling, and more particularly to electrical box ancillary devices, such as brackets, plates and struts, that permit the carrying of heavy ceiling appliances such as ceiling fans and lighting fixtures. Disclosed herein are structural plates and other devices for attachment of ceiling fans and heavy lighting fixtures to structural members, such as trusses and joists, against the load of these fixtures. Also disclosed herein, explicitly or implicitly are methods of using and installing these plates and or brackets, devices and boxes. Detailed information on various example embodiments of the inventions is provided in the Detailed Description below.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 21, 2008Publication date: March 26, 2009Inventor: Alan P. Halbert
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Patent number: 7504580Abstract: An adapter closure structure for electrical conduit systems of the type having conduit bodies, for which additional conduit access to an in-service conduit junction box can be provided without the need for removing and/or rewiring the in-service junction box. In a first embodiment, a structure is provided in the form of a closure plate having one or more conduit hubs to replace a flat closure plate on one side of a conduit body. In a second embodiment, a second conduit body may be joined to the in-service body utilizing a novel coupling ring. In this alternative embodiment, the second body can provide additional interior working space. In addition the second body may also optionally add one or several additional conduit hubs for added access to the in-service system. In both embodiments, the closure structure is fitted into a female opening of the conduit body for structural integrity.Type: GrantFiled: December 7, 2006Date of Patent: March 17, 2009Inventors: Albert James Lammens, Jr., Randy Lamar Marx
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Patent number: 7501573Abstract: A subgrade vault with a latching cover. The vault includes a peripheral wall with an open access port at the top. A peripheral ledge surrounds the access port. A cover to close the access port fits inside it, with a latch assembly inside it and a retractable latch pin disposed to fit in an aperture in the peripheral ledge. The latch pin is retractable by the stabbing motion of a tapered tool against a cam surface on the latch pin. The cover is locked in place merely by pressing down on it.Type: GrantFiled: July 16, 2007Date of Patent: March 10, 2009Assignee: Oldcastle Precast, Inc.Inventor: William J. Balfour, Jr.
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Patent number: 7485804Abstract: An electrical box and cover that includes a body having a back wall, a face plate and a perimeter wall which define an interior and an exterior for the body. The back wall has one or more removable elements for forming apertures that can be used to mount connectors. The faceplate has an opening for accessing the interior that extends beyond the perimeter wall to expose a slot. The cover is connected to the body by one or more hinges and is pivotably movable between an open and closed position. When the cover is in the open position, it can be retracted into the housing. A housing extending from the rear of the face plate on the exterior of the body receives the cover. The cover can include a rail on the interior surface and the perimeter wall can include a track that receives the rail when the cover is retracted into the box.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 2007Date of Patent: February 3, 2009Assignee: Thomas & Betts International, Inc.Inventors: Cong Thanh Dinh, Robert Kevin Jolly
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Patent number: 7476806Abstract: A electrical box assembly is provided that includes an electrical outlet box and an adapter plate configured to accommodate electrical components in a single or double gang formation. An engaging mechanism permits the adapter plate to snap into the electrical outlet box without the use of screws or other fasteners. Thus, the adapter plate can be removed and rotated to change the orientation of the adapter plate and any electrical components attached thereto from a vertical to a horizontal orientation, and vice versa.Type: GrantFiled: March 25, 2008Date of Patent: January 13, 2009Assignee: Thomas & Betts International, Inc.Inventor: Cong Thanh Dinh
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Publication number: 20080289845Abstract: An apparatus and method for mounting a device in a wall box is provided. The apparatus includes a base plate formed by a front portion and a plurality of side portions extending to the rear to define a substantially open rear portion, and a latching mechanism coupled to the base plate. The front portion is connected to the device. The base plate is configured to be at least partially inserted into the wall box. The latching mechanism includes a frictional engagement member configured to frictionally engage with the wall box upon insertion into the wall box.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 9, 2008Publication date: November 27, 2008Applicant: AMX LLCInventor: Phong Le
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Publication number: 20080196921Abstract: A electrical box assembly is provided that includes an electrical outlet box and an adapter plate configured to accommodate electrical components in a single or double gang formation. An engaging mechanism permits the adapter plate to snap into the electrical outlet box without the use of screws or other fasteners. Thus, the adapter plate can be removed and rotated to change the orientation of the adapter plate and any electrical components attached thereto from a vertical to a horizontal orientation, and vice versa.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 25, 2008Publication date: August 21, 2008Inventor: Cong Thanh Dinh
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Patent number: 7414190Abstract: A NID includes a base defining an interior cavity and a protective outer cover attached to the base for movement between an opened position and a closed position. At least one of the base and the outer cover has one or more channels formed therein and the other of the base and the outer cover has one or more lips that depend outwardly therefrom. Each lip is received within a corresponding channel formed on the other of the base and the outer cover. The lip and the channel have side portions that engage at multiple contact points to form an environmental seal that prevents contaminants, such as wind-driven dust, sand and moisture, from entering the interior cavity when the outer cover is in the closed position, thereby protecting communications equipment within the NID without the use of an elastomeric gel, seal or gasket.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 2004Date of Patent: August 19, 2008Assignee: Corning Cable Systems LLCInventor: Chanh C. Vo
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Patent number: 7414193Abstract: An apparatus for mounting a device in a wall box is provided that includes a base plate formed by a substantially flat front portion and a plurality of side portions extending to the rear to define a substantially open rear portion, and at least one magnet. The front portion is connected to a device. The base plate is configured to be substantially inserted into a magnetically engageable wall box arranged on a wall. Each magnet is connected to one of the plurality of side portions. At least one magnet is operably configured to magnetically engage an interior wall of the magnetically engageable wall box.Type: GrantFiled: February 9, 2007Date of Patent: August 19, 2008Assignee: AMX LLCInventor: Phong Le
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Patent number: 7388150Abstract: An electrical outlet box and/or assembly is attachable to a wall or ceiling stud. The assembly in one embodiment includes an outlet box having a perimetrical side wall, a back wall and open front face defining a box interior. The assembly may also include a communications frame. A mounting bracket is integrally formed with the box and extends from the side wall. The mounting bracket includes, integrally formed therewith, an attachment structure for directly securing the bracket to the stud and positionally fixing the bracket without the use of additional securement hardware. The bracket may be a U-shaped member having a planar face abutting the face of the stud and a pair of spaced apart arms extending therefrom for engagement with opposite sides of the stud. The assembly may also support more than one box/frame. The box and frame may be supported on either side of the bracket.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 2006Date of Patent: June 17, 2008Assignee: Thomas & Betts International, Inc.Inventors: Cong Thanh Dinh, John Charles Archer
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Patent number: 7378591Abstract: A electrical box assembly is provided that includes an electrical outlet box and an adapter plate configured to accommodate electrical components in a single or double gang formation. An engaging mechanism permits the adapter plate to snap into the electrical outlet box without the use of screws or other fasteners. Thus, the adapter plate can be removed and rotated to change the orientation of the adapter plate and any electrical components attached thereto from a vertical to a horizontal orientation, and vice versa.Type: GrantFiled: January 12, 2007Date of Patent: May 27, 2008Assignee: Thomas & Betts International, Inc.Inventor: Cong Thanh Dinh
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Patent number: 7365268Abstract: A storage receptacle is provided that has first and second sides and a bottom made as a unitary member from a single piece of sheet metal. The receptacle also includes front and rear ends, each coupled to the two sides and providing support for the bottom.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2005Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Assignee: Edsal Manufacturing Co., Inc.Inventors: James E. Collins, David J. Wojotowicz, Anthony J. Troyner, Mitchell S. Liss
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Patent number: 7361833Abstract: A pan-style electrical outlet box used to secure an electrical fixture such as a light or a ceiling fan to a ceiling joist. This shallow box has a generally planar back wall bounded by a perimeter sidewall extending therefrom. Also extending from the back wall but in an opposite direction are a plurality of mounting brackets that form a joist receiving channel therebetween. Each mounting bracket is integrally molded with the box and is also configured with at least one joist engaging device so as to engage the joist and hence temporarily hold the box thereto. This permits the installer to use both hands when subsequently permanently affixing the box to the joist, such as via the fasteners supplied with the box.Type: GrantFiled: February 16, 2007Date of Patent: April 22, 2008Assignee: Thomas & Betts International, Inc.Inventor: Cong Thanh Dinh
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Patent number: 7357541Abstract: An enclosure with socket cup for use with a line voltage recessed lighting kit, having an enclosure for a splice connection between a lamp holder and a junction box, the enclosure having an open portion. The invention further comprises a socket cup having at least one socket cup sidewall engaging the open portion of the enclosure. The socket cup provides a pathway for wiring from within the socket cup to an interior of the enclosure. The enclosure with socket cup may be utilized with reflector trims of differing heights.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 2004Date of Patent: April 15, 2008Assignee: Genlyte Thomas Group, LLCInventors: Thomas J. Gamache, James N. Neeld, Graham M. Ripple
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Patent number: 7358441Abstract: A meter center assembly includes a first meter center with a plurality of sides including a first side having a plurality of first openings, and a second meter center beside the first meter center with a plurality of sides including a second side having a plurality of second openings and an internal surface. Each of a plurality of threaded fasteners passes through a corresponding pair of one of the first openings and one of the second openings. A plurality of rigid members are coupled to the internal surface of the second side of the second meter center. Each rigid member includes an opening that threadably receives a corresponding one of the threaded fasteners. Each threaded fastener, when threadably received by the opening of a corresponding one of the rigid members, secures the first side of the first meter center to the second side of the second meter center.Type: GrantFiled: April 3, 2007Date of Patent: April 15, 2008Assignee: Eaton CorporationInventors: Paul D. Seff, Michael J. Ranta, Serle K. Cupp
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Patent number: 7355118Abstract: An adjustable mounting bar and electrical box assembly for hanging a light fixture, fan, or other electrical device from a ceiling. All hardware required for mounting the electrical device is included with the assembly. The adjustable mounting bar includes sliding tubular members with end flanges for spanning between adjacent overhead joists. An electrical box is connected to the tubular members by a clamp and outer clamping fasteners, which can be loosened to adjust the length of the adjustable mounting bar. The end flanges include penetrable tabs that can be driven into the overhead joists to temporarily secure the adjustable mounting bar to the joists and thereby free the installer's hands. The outer face of the end flanges include a series of rows of slots arranged horizontally thereon and forming a plurality of bend lines.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 2005Date of Patent: April 8, 2008Assignee: Arlington Industries, Inc.Inventor: Thomas J. Gretz
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Patent number: 7351910Abstract: An electrical box assembly adapted to receive two different types of fasteners, such as screws and nails. The electrical box assembly has a base with an outer edge. A wall extends outwardly from the outer edge of the base that forms a cavity therein. A first fastener support on the wall is adapted to receive a first fastener. A second fastener support on the wall is adapted to receive a second fastener, wherein the first and second fasteners are different types of fasteners.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 2006Date of Patent: April 1, 2008Assignee: Hubbell IncorporatedInventors: Francesco Magisano, Rocco Di Serio
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Patent number: 7319192Abstract: An electrical box assembly including a frame member and an outlet box assembly with an outlet box and a hinged cover. The frame member includes a peripheral flange and inward sloping sidewalls that extend to a rear panel having a central opening therein. The outlet box includes a flange and a rearward extending sidewall portion. The frame member can be secured to a wall and the rearward extending sidewall of the outlet box inserted into the central opening of the frame member until the flange of the outlet box seats against the rear panel of the frame member. The rear panel of the frame member is recessed a substantial distance from the front edge of the frame member, thereby ensuring that the outlet box assembly and hinged cover in a closed configuration will be recessed within the outer surface of the wall.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2006Date of Patent: January 15, 2008Assignee: Arlington Industries, Inc.Inventor: Thomas J. Gretz
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Patent number: 7307214Abstract: A mounting assembly for securing an electrical fixture to a ceiling in an airtight fit. The mounting assembly includes a pair of box members connected by a bridge. A flange is provided coplanar with the bridge and extending outward transversely around the periphery of the box members. A channel is provided between the bridge and box members and mounting fasteners are frictionally held within temporary storage receptacles in the mounting assembly. The mounting fasteners are removed from the temporary storage receptacles and secured through the bridge to secure the mounting assembly to the beam. The flange provides a sealing surface for sealing against air infiltration around the periphery of the electrical box. Duct seal may be applied around the periphery of the cables at the knockout areas to provide an airtight seal for the electrical cables entering the electrical box.Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 2007Date of Patent: December 11, 2007Assignee: Arlington Industries, Inc.Inventor: Thomas J. Gretz
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Patent number: 7304236Abstract: An electrical box assembly for providing electrical service including line voltage and signal line hookups for a television or home entertainment center. The electrical box assembly recesses electrical components including plug ends of electrical cords within the wall to make them unobtrusive and out of the way. The box assembly includes an integral electrical box for housing two line voltage electrical components and connection points for several low voltage components. The low voltage connection points are capable of accepting standard jacks for broadband cable, direct TV, surround sound cabling, or phone systems. The electrical box assembly includes a box member, a frame member, and a flange on the frame member to enable secure mounting to a pair of studs. A separate embodiment includes the box and frame members in one piece. The electrical box assembly enables easy consolidation of electrical and signal hookups for TV or home entertainment systems.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 2007Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Assignee: Arlington Industries, Inc.Inventor: Thomas J. Gretz
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Patent number: 7304235Abstract: An electrical box assembly for providing electrical service and signal line hookups to a television or home entertainment center. The electrical box assembly can be recessed within the wall to make it unobtrusive and out of the way. The box assembly includes an integral electrical box for housing line voltage connections and connection points for several low voltage openings. The low voltage connection points are capable of accepting standard jacks for broadband cable, direct TV, surround sound cabling, or phone systems. The electrical box assembly enables easy consolidation of all the various electrical and signal hookups for TV or home entertainment systems.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 2007Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Assignee: Arlington Industries, Inc.Inventor: Thomas J. Gretz
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Patent number: 7297870Abstract: A fixture frame having a junction box formed from a blank and an integrally connected frame arm connected to the junction box and formed from the blank. The frame arm is formable in a plurality of configurations for receiving a corresponding plurality of ring aperture sizes.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 2005Date of Patent: November 20, 2007Assignee: Genlyte Thomas Group, LLCInventor: Gene Sartini
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Patent number: 7279635Abstract: A quick connecting universal electrical box system for the mounting of electrical sockets, switches or any electronic or communication component that is typically installed into a wall is disclosed. The system comprises a mounting frame and an electrical box, which can be pre-wired with any socket unit or component, such that installation of the electrical box into a wall is greatly simplified. The mounting frame is first inserted into a wall, followed by insertion of the electrical box into the mounting frame. The action of inserting the electrical box into the mounting frame forces flaps in the mounting frame to engage and lock the mounting frame into the wall. Retaining studs formed on flexible side panels of the electrical box then engage with corresponding openings in the mounting frame to secure the electrical box within the mounting frame. Secure installation of this electrical box is simple and quick without the need for any tools or fastening screws.Type: GrantFiled: February 3, 2005Date of Patent: October 9, 2007Assignee: Electec LimitedInventor: G. Douglas Hyde
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Patent number: 7265991Abstract: A housing cage (1) comprising walls (2) defining sides of the housing cage and having wall sections (3). A plurality of contact surfaces (4), each of which is connected to one of said wall sections, are arranged so as to support built-in modules which are held in the housing cage (1). Each of the wall sections (3) is connected only on one first side (5) to its associated wall (2) of the housing cage (1), and the other sides of the wall sections (3) are spaced from the associated wall (2) of the housing cage (1) by incisions (6) in said associated wall, so that each of the wall sections (3) can be bent along the first side (5) with respect to its associated wall (2) of the housing cage (1).Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 2006Date of Patent: September 4, 2007Assignee: Fujitsu Siemens Computers GmbHInventors: Friedrich Köhler, Mario Bez, August Scherer
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Patent number: 7227085Abstract: A conduit body assembly that can easily be reconfigured at a job site into any of several specific conduit body configurations, depending on the particular requirements at the site. The assembly includes a conduit body and one or more hubs that may be secured to the conduit body to form various conduit bodies such as LB, C, T, LL, or LR. The conduit body includes a bottom, side walls, end walls, and a top cover. The bottom, side walls, and end walls each include one or more threaded apertures and a threaded blank installed in each aperture. The hubs each include a threaded inner end. One or more blanks may be removed from the apertures on the conduit body and replaced by a hub at each such aperture to form various conduit bodies such as LB, C, T, LL, or LR. The conduit body assembly of the present invention makes it very simple for an installer to configure a conduit body to fit a particular need at the job site.Type: GrantFiled: July 27, 2006Date of Patent: June 5, 2007Assignee: Arlington Industries, Inc.Inventor: Thomas J. Gretz
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Patent number: 7214877Abstract: This invention pertains to an electrical box assembly for securing to a stud using an adhesive. The assembly includes an electrical enclosure, a bracket and at least one pair of opposed pads. The bracket is affixed to the enclosure and defines a stud-receiving cavity extending along an edge of the enclosure. The at least one pair of opposed pads are substantially disposed within the cavity and have a portion thereof for engaging the stud. The pads are sized and configured to receive the adhesive on the portion.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2006Date of Patent: May 8, 2007Assignee: Thomas & Betts International, Inc.Inventor: Ian Rubin de la Borbolla
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Patent number: 7193152Abstract: A fire resistant assembly, which may include a first layer having a lumen therein, a second layer adjacent the first layer, a first structural member disposed between the first and second layers, and a box having a cavity defined by a wall, a first opening in the wall, a second opening in the wall, a panel having a panel opening fastened to the box about the second opening, and a fixture installed in the cavity and having conduit extending through the second opening and the panel opening.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 2006Date of Patent: March 20, 2007Inventor: Happy Moselle
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Patent number: 7179995Abstract: The invention pertains to an electrical box assembly having a support structure for use in securing electrical enclosures, housings or boxes or the like to a stud. Upon insertion of the stud into a stud-receiving cavity of the assembly, a movable tab is pivoted to press one or more prongs into engagement with the stud. Pivoting of the tab may continue until the tab is locked in place whereupon the electrical enclosure is secured to the stud in compliance with code requirements without the need for such secondary operations as driving a separate fastener into the stud; the box now being secured with sufficient rigidity to satisfy local code enforcement.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2006Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Assignee: Thomas & Betts International, Inc.Inventor: Cong Thanh Dinh
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Patent number: 7173186Abstract: A mounting bracket for electrical junction boxes has two sides to which electrical junction boxes for adjacent rooms may be attached. The mounting bracket is interposed between parallel vertical stud members. A plurality of electrical junction boxes may be attached to either side of the mounting bracket.Type: GrantFiled: February 21, 2006Date of Patent: February 6, 2007Inventor: Dale A. Hageman
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Patent number: 7173185Abstract: A mounting assembly for fastening a device housing onto a panel includes a housing and a clamp. The panel defines a front surface, a rear surface, and an opening extending therethrough for receiving the housing. The housing includes at least one wall sized to extend through the opening. The wall defines a bearing surface. The clamp includes a beam member and a head member. The beam member extends from the wall at a first end. The beam member is biased to deflect outwardly with respect to the wall at an oblique angle. The head member extends from a second end of the beam member and includes a first cam surface for engaging the rear surface of the panel and a second cam surface for engaging the bearing surface of the housing.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 2005Date of Patent: February 6, 2007Assignee: Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Shawn D. Cloran, Kenneth J. Lutze, Mark S. Williams
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Patent number: 7173184Abstract: An electrical outlet box having alternative mounting flanges on opposite sides thereof for selectively mounting the box to a front surface of a wall stud or to a side surface of a wall stud. The box and mounting flanges are configured for use of either mounting flange with the box located on either of opposite sides of the wall stud.Type: GrantFiled: May 4, 2005Date of Patent: February 6, 2007Assignee: The Lamson & Sessions Co.Inventors: Eric G. Hull, Charles H. Riedy, Dennis P. Revlock, Sr.
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Patent number: 7148421Abstract: A lid (20) and a cover main body (10) are formed with sliding contacts (17, 23) that slide in sliding contact with each other immediately before the lid (20) reaches a lid-closing position for damping biasing forces given from coil springs (30) to the lid (20). Frictional resistance is created by the sliding contact of the sliding contacts (17, 23) and the biasing forces given from the torsion coil springs (30) to the lid (20) are damped by this frictional resistance. In this way, an impact given when the lid (20) reaches the cover main body (10) at the lid-closing position is alleviated.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 2004Date of Patent: December 12, 2006Assignee: Sumitomo Wiring Systems, Ltd.Inventors: Shinyu Nagashima, Akihito Maegawa, Mitsuru Tanigawa, Hiroyuki Kashiki
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Patent number: 7145077Abstract: An improved, non-conductive electrical junction box includes a wall defining an insert recess. An insert member is received into the insert recess and defines a conduit socket in order to provide for an end portion of an electrical conduit to be joined with the junction box, providing for electrical wiring to pass between the conduit and the junction box.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 2005Date of Patent: December 5, 2006Inventors: Gary K. Weise, Richard J. Kesl
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Patent number: 7135640Abstract: A prepackaged mounting assembly for securing a device, such as a ceiling fan, light fixture, or similar device to an overhead beam. The mounting assembly includes an L-shaped mounting box that includes a large side wiring cavity and an integral flange portion. A cover cooperates with the integral flange portion to provide a closure for the wiring cavity and a bottom flange for mounting a device-specific bracket thereon. The bracket includes slots therein and the integral flange portion includes downward extending alignment posts to enable easy centering of the manufacturer's bracket under the integral flange. The mounting assembly includes all hardware required to complete installation of the device including the cover, an initial fastener, and load bearing fasteners, which are all temporarily secured to the L-shaped box.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 2005Date of Patent: November 14, 2006Assignee: Arlington Industries, Inc.Inventors: John Ofcharsky, Thomas J. Gretz
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Patent number: 7129411Abstract: A device for more reliable and rapid securing to or within a component. The device incorporates therein or independently uses a substantially flexible member to secure the device within the component.Type: GrantFiled: October 3, 2005Date of Patent: October 31, 2006Inventors: Jeffrey A. Bump, Thomas M. Capone
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Patent number: 7091413Abstract: Electrical equipment having a chassis with electronic parts mounted thereto can be simply mounted on a bottom of a cabinet without using screws and can be simply disassembled. A plurality of hooks are provided on a bottom plate of the cabinet. The chassis is formed with holes to permit the hooks to engage therewith. A positioning projection is provided on the bottom plate of the cabinet or on the chassis to afford flexible deformation, and a latch hole is provided on the chassis or on the bottom plate of the cabinet to permit the positioning projection to be latched thereon.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 2004Date of Patent: August 15, 2006Assignee: Orion Electric Co., Ltd.Inventor: Hidenobu Mukougawa
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Patent number: 7075004Abstract: An integral, one-piece low voltage/receptacle electrical outlet box includes an integral one-piece structure having a top, a bottom, opposing side walls and an internal, integral dividing wall defining low voltage and receptacle sides of the electrical box. Punchouts and apertures for the insertion of power and securing of electrical cables and the like are provided in the receptacle side and punchouts and/or openings are provided in the low voltage side for the insertion and securing of low voltage wiring/cables. Both a new construction and “old work” or retrofit version of such a device are described.Type: GrantFiled: February 8, 2005Date of Patent: July 11, 2006Assignee: Arlington Industries, Inc.Inventor: Thomas J. Gretz
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Patent number: 7053300Abstract: A multi-purpose bracket for supporting electric boxes in a stud wall which can be attached directly to a stud, between two adjacent studs, or supported from the floor, includes a mounting bracket that includes four tabs that are adapted to attach to a vertically slotted base unit. Further, the bracket includes a cable support having an edge which aligns with a stabilizing leg of the bracket which allows it to align itself to a metal stud. An edge of the bracket is then screwed to the metal stud. Further, the bracket includes channels which receive straps which can be used to support the bracket between two adjacent studs without use of the floor support.Type: GrantFiled: July 9, 2004Date of Patent: May 30, 2006Assignee: Denier Electric Company, Inc.Inventors: Dennis J. Denier, Dennis Hickey, Charles H. Bull, Joseph P. Kallmeyer
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Patent number: 7053301Abstract: An electrical box extension includes a base having a first edge, a second edge, an inner wall, and an outer wall. The inner wall defines an aperture. An annular flange is disposed on the inner wall. The flange has first and second support surfaces. A first receiving section is formed between the first edge and the upper support surface. A second receiving section is formed between the second edge and the second support surface. The extension is reversible for extending the electrical box in either a partially or fully extended position.Type: GrantFiled: August 16, 2004Date of Patent: May 30, 2006Assignee: Hubbell IncorporatedInventor: Steven J. Johnson
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Patent number: 7045713Abstract: A combination of an electrical box and a bushing for providing electrical service on a block wall. A mounting arrangement is included on the electrical box for securing the box to a first surface of the block wall. A fastening arrangement is included on the bushing for securing the bushing to a second surface of the block wall. The electrical box includes sidewalls, a front opening, and a cavity for receiving an electrical device therein. The bushing includes a flange with a rear surface and a tube portion extending from the rear surface. An opening extends from the flange through the tube portion of the bushing. The electrical box and bushing combination provides electrical service to a block wall while minimizing the possibility of cable abrasion, electrical shorts, and the loss of power to the electrical box.Type: GrantFiled: November 2, 2005Date of Patent: May 16, 2006Assignee: Arlington Industries, Inc.Inventor: Thomas J. Gretz
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Patent number: 7019210Abstract: The invention concerns a cable suspension arrangement for hanging luminaries including a holder for a cable which is vertical in the position of installation for suspending a luminaire at a cable holder point and a fixing region for fixing the luminaire to the suspension arrangement, wherein the fixing region has a center, wherein there is provided a mechanism for displacement of the cable holder point laterally with respect to the longitudinal direction in which the cable extends, relative to the center of the fixing region for the luminaire, or for displacement of the center of gravity of the luminaire, laterally with respect to the longitudinal extent of an associated luminaire, relative to the cable holder point of the luminaire housing.Type: GrantFiled: May 18, 2004Date of Patent: March 28, 2006Assignee: Trilux-Lenze GmbH & Co. KGInventors: Bernd Radin, Matthias Eickel
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Patent number: 7009110Abstract: A prepackaged fan and fixture mounting assembly for securing an electrical fixture, such as a ceiling fan, light fixture, or similar device to an overhead joist or other suitable structure. The mounting assembly includes an electrical box having a closed top, a sidewall, and an open bottom that define an electrical wiring enclosure. Provided within the electrical box are integral holsters for temporary storage of device fasteners. A bracket is provided attached to a recessed area in the sidewall for securing the mounting assembly to an appropriate surface. An electrical fan or fixture is installed to the electrical box by removing the device fasteners from their respective holsters and securing them through the mounting ring of the electrical fixture and into the mounting assembly.Type: GrantFiled: August 19, 2005Date of Patent: March 7, 2006Assignee: Arlington Industries, Inc.Inventor: Thomas J. Gretz
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Patent number: 7005578Abstract: A recessed electrical box with a closeable cover member and at least one outward extending flange. The flange serves as a positioning arrangement to recess the electrical box at the correct depth with respect to the surface in which it will be mounted. The recessed electrical box is includes of two pieces, including a one-piece electrical box and a one-piece cover member. The cover member is of minimal size with respect to the electrical box to minimize the cost of construction. The electrical box can be installed on an exterior wall, including either a finished or an unfinished wall. The outward extending flange may include an inner flange for positioning the recessed electrical box with respect to the outer surface of the substrate on an unfinished building. The inner flange is removable to facilitate installation on a finished building, in which the finish layer such as siding or stucco is installed.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 2004Date of Patent: February 28, 2006Assignee: Arlington Industries, Inc.Inventor: Thomas J. Gretz
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Patent number: 6996943Abstract: A bracket for supporting an electrical junction box within a wall frame. The bracket has a junction box support portion adapted to be connectable to the electrical junction box and a cable support portion extending from the junction box support portion. The cable support portion has a cable securing portion that receives and automatically secures the electrical cables in the cable support portion, thereby fixing the electrical cables a desired distance from the junction box.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2002Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Assignee: Denier Electric Co., Inc.Inventors: Dennis J. Denier, Charles H. Bull, Joseph P. Kallmeyer
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Patent number: 6992248Abstract: A junction box assembly includes a lower cover, a junction box and an upper cover. The junction box holds one or more connectors that mate with corresponding connectors in the lower cover. The junction box includes a locking structure that engages with a corresponding locking structure of the upper cover. The junction box also includes a cover engagement restriction portion. The upper cover includes a lock position assurance device that abuts against the cover engagement restriction portion and restricts the upper cover from engaging the lower cover if the junction box is not properly installed into the lower cover. The lock position assurance device may also restrict accidental disengagement of the junction box from the junction box by restricting the junction box locking structure from disengaging the corresponding locking structure of the upper cover.Type: GrantFiled: April 25, 2005Date of Patent: January 31, 2006Assignee: Sumitomo Electric Wiring Systems - Detroit Technical Center, Inc.Inventors: J. Patrick Dunbar, Joseph Mauney