With Closure For Face Plate Opening Patents (Class 174/67)
  • Publication number: 20140020925
    Abstract: Systems and other embodiments associated with a universal faceplate assembly are described. According to one embodiment, a faceplate includes a substantially planar plate base configured to mount on a wiring enclosure. At least one opening in the plate base is configured receive a receptacle. The opening is configured to receive receptacles of a first receptacle type or a second receptacle type. The faceplate also includes a faceplate notch in a front surface of the plate base configured to receive a receptacle tab. The receptacle tab is disposed on receptacles of the first receptacle type or the second receptacle type. The receptacle tab is configured to allow a fastener to pass through the faceplate notch and the receptacle tab to attach the receptacle to the faceplate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2012
    Publication date: January 23, 2014
    Applicant: EATON CORPORATION
    Inventors: Paul David SEFF, Alston Gareth BROOKS, Steven Christopher SAAD
  • Patent number: 8633385
    Abstract: A weatherproof cover assembly includes a base and a cover where the cover is coupled to the base by a bidirectional hinge to allow the cover to pivot in two directions. The cover assembly can be mounted in a horizontal or vertical orientation where the bidirectional hinge allows the cover to close downwardly when the assembly is mounted in either orientation. The bidirectional hinge has a first leg pivotally connected to the cover and second leg pivotally connected to the base where the first and second legs are perpendicular to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventors: Krzysztof W. Korcz, Mahran H. Ayrton
  • Patent number: 8629349
    Abstract: A recessed box is adapted for mounting one or more electrical devices having an adapter. To accommodate electrical devices of different sizes, the adapter is provided that is coupled to the opening in the recessed box. The adapter has a frame with a central opening to receive the selected electrical device. The frame has one or more removable tabs to enlarge the dimension of the central opening to accommodate larger electrical devices. An electrical device, such as a low voltage wiring device, is coupled to the removable tabs. The tabs are removed to receive a larger electrical device, such as an electrical junction box, that is coupled to the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2014
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventors: Brian T. Martino, Nathaniel L. Herring
  • Publication number: 20140008096
    Abstract: A charging-socket flap device for electric vehicles, including: a structure including an aperture and a jacket adjacent to the aperture, the jacket including an orifice; a movable gate forming a flap configured to close the aperture of the structure; an element hinging the gate housed in the jacket; a cover configured to close the orifice of the jacket. The cover is mounted on the orifice of the jacket to be a distance away from the orifice on at least one edge of the orifice in the closed position on the jacket, the cover being kept a distance away from the edge by a support making it possible for the cover to move with a damped movement toward the edge when a region of the vehicle body panel covering the flap device is impacted, or impacted by a pedestrian.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 2, 2012
    Publication date: January 9, 2014
    Applicant: RENAULT s.a.s.
    Inventors: Efflam Hudry, Patrick Bouas, Florent Metais
  • Patent number: 8618416
    Abstract: The present invention is an outlet cover that is useful for covering a cylindrical socket type outlet. The outlet cover provides a watertight cover that is useful in marine applications and may be useful in automotive applications as well. The outlet cover has a base that has a flange. An upstanding ring extends upwardly from the base and an annular notch that has a diameter smaller than the outer diameter of the upstanding ring. A cap has a tether that joins the base to the cap. An annular rib in the cap is adapted for mating with the annular notch on the base. The annular rib includes a notch partially through it and is adapted for accommodating the tether when the annular rib is mated with the notch on the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Inventors: Daniel A. Rothbaurer, Brian E. Rothbauer
  • Patent number: 8618415
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing a portion of a portable electronic device includes forming a glass fiber laminate sheet to provide a formed glass fiber laminate body, and overmolding a rim on the body. The rim includes a connector for coupling with a complementary part of the portable electronic device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Assignee: BlackBerry Limited
    Inventors: Dietmar Frank Wennemer, Steven Andrew Prsa, Michael Welker, Simon Coulson
  • Patent number: 8598456
    Abstract: A cover assembly includes a base, a cover and a hinge coupling the cover to the hinge. The hinge includes a body coupled to a rear face of the base and extends outwardly from a side edge of the base. The hinge has a leg oriented to contact an edge of the cover when the cover is pivoted to the open position. The edge frictionally engages the leg of the hinge to hold the cover in an open position and limit rotation of the cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventors: Christopher A. Carbone, David L. Lutz, Thomas McLean
  • Patent number: 8592681
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a system includes an electrical device and a removable cover, where the electrical device and the removable cover are adapted to enable the removable cover to pivot into an installed position on the electrical device. In another embodiment, a system includes an electrical device having a pushbutton, and a cover adapted to be removably attached to the electrical device, where the cover includes an opening for accessing the pushbutton, and where the pushbutton includes a sub button and a cosmetic cap adapted to be removably attached to the sub button.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: Leviton Manufacturing Co., Inc.
    Inventors: R. David Alderson, Jerry R. Hoffman, Michael D. Williams, Ronald H. Jansen, Adam Kevelos, Nehal P. Shah, Kang Pin Tee
  • Patent number: 8592682
    Abstract: An electrical device cover assembly configured for mounting over an electrical device is described. The electrical device cover assembly comprises a base comprising an opening large enough to receive an electrical device. A lid comprising a lid face, a lid ring, and an expansion section between the lid face and the lid ring, the lid coupled to the base and comprising an inside surface and an expansion section, the expansion section expandable from a first depth to a second depth at least twice as deep as the first depth is provided. An expansion arm moveable between a first collapsed position when the expansion section is at its first depth and an second expanded position when the expansion section is at its second depth, wherein in the second position the expansion arm is in contact with and supports the lid at its second depth is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventors: Marcus J. Shotey, Jeffrey P. Baldwin, Kenneth C. Booth, Miguel Chapa, Bradley Fulghum
  • Publication number: 20130306343
    Abstract: An electrical box includes a back wall and a front wall, configured to be essentially parallel to a mounting surface when the base is installed to the mounting surface, and a pair of interchangeable top and bottom walls. Each interchangeable top and bottom wall is connected to the back wall and the front wall. The electrical box includes a side wall connected to each of the other walls and an open end opposite the side wall that is configured to receive an electrical device therein. A standoff extends laterally from the back wall. The standoff is configured to provide a mounting structure and to position the electrical box away from the mounting surface. The electrical box is configured to receive a top-mounted hood to cover the open end when the base is installed with the open end positioned to face either of the right side or the left side.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2013
    Publication date: November 21, 2013
    Applicant: THOMAS & BETTS INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventors: Joey D. Magno, JR., Mark R. Drane, Robert Kevin Jolly
  • Patent number: 8584895
    Abstract: An electrical device cover comprises a base with an opening in a back wall of the base sized to receive an electrical device and a lid coupled to the base at a first base end through a hinge, the lid pivotable between and open position and at least one closed position. The base comprises a notch on a base wall extending away from the first base end. A first lid end is hingedly coupled to the first base end such that the first lid end is selectively adjustable with respect to the base toward and away from the second base end. A lid pin extends from the lid towards the notch when the lid is in at least one closed position wherein the lid pin seats in the notch when the first lid end is selectively adjusted toward the second base end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventors: Richard L. Cleghorn, Jeffrey P. Baldwin, Marcus J. Shotey, Kenneth C. Booth
  • Patent number: 8584310
    Abstract: A vacuum electronic power tool sense system senses the operation of a power tool that is plugged into an onboard power outlet and the vacuum source is automatically operated to facilitate user clean-up of debris generated by use of the power tool. A delay period can be utilized to maintain the vacuum source is an on state for a predetermined period of time after the power tool is turned off.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: David R. Beers, Kathy E. DiPasquale, Spencer G. Maid
  • Patent number: 8586864
    Abstract: An electrical outlet cover assembly includes a base with a base wall and a plurality of side walls, a lid hinged to the base, and at least one port extending through at least one base wall. A cord catch plate is removably placed in the at least one port, the cord catch plate having a reentrant opening therethrough off a side of the plate. Ports may be included on multiple walls, and multiple cord catch plates, or a blocking plate may be placed in other ports. A flexible flap or two may extend inward of a channel in the cord catch plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventors: Marcus J. Shotey, Jeffrey P. Baldwin, Jason P. Baldwin
  • Patent number: 8569621
    Abstract: A cover for electrical devices is disclosed. Particular implementations include an electrical device cover configured to mount over an electrical device includes a lid having a flexible membrane. The lid is coupled by a hinge to a base and the cover includes a cord port in an edge of a surface of the cover. The lid is configured to expand through the flexible membrane to an expanded position to accommodate an electrical connector coupled with the electrical device. The lid may also be configured to reduce in depth as the lid retracts from the expanded position to a refracted position through the flexible membrane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventors: Marcus J. Shotey, Jeffrey P. Baldwin, Ryan K. Liebengood
  • Patent number: 8569620
    Abstract: An expandable while-in-use electrical outlet cover assembly comprising a lid operatively coupled to a base, the lid comprising flexible clips each comprising a first end, a mid-position and a second end. The collapsible lid may be held in an expanded position by the first end of the flexible clips and collapsed to a collapsed position by applying force to the lid such that a box-like cap slides with respect to a support ring such that the cap seats at the mid-portion of the flexible clip. Particularly useful for rigid lids, like metal lids, the collapsible cover protects the outlet beneath the cover while an electrical cord is plugged in, but still collapses to a smaller profile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventor: Jeffrey P. Baldwin
  • Patent number: 8563859
    Abstract: A wall plate including a base having a perimeter and a front surface, a recessed portion in the base located behind the front surface and having at least one opening for receiving an electrical receptacle face, a panel slidable within the recessed portion, a pair of release buttons for selectively permitting slidable movement of the panel, and wherein the panel is biased in the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventors: Jeffrey P. Baldwin, Marcus J. Shotey
  • Patent number: 8558111
    Abstract: An adapter plate for mounting an electrical device including an adapter having a first surface, a second surface opposite the first surface, an outer perimeter, and an inner perimeter, a gasket for installing between a round electrical box and the second surface of the adapter, and wherein the adapter outer perimeter comprises two straight sides and two concave sides.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventors: Jeffrey P. Baldwin, Richard L. Cleghorn, Michael J. Shotey, Marcus J. Shotey
  • Publication number: 20130255990
    Abstract: The present invention is an outlet cover that is useful for covering a cylindrical socket type outlet. The outlet cover provides a watertight cover that is useful in marine applications and may be useful in automotive applications as well. The outlet cover has a base that has a flange. An upstanding ring extends upwardly from the base and an annular notch that has a diameter smaller than the outer diameter of the upstanding ring. A cap has a tether that joins the base to the cap. An annular rib in the cap is adapted for mating with the annular notch on the base. The annular rib includes a notch partially through it and is adapted for accommodating the tether when the annular rib is mated with the notch on the base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2012
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Inventors: Daniel A. Rothbauer, Brian E. Rothbauer
  • Patent number: 8513522
    Abstract: A shielding mechanism includes a shielding cover, a pivot shaft, a shielding member, and an elastic member. The shielding cover defines an insert hole. The shielding member is rotatably mounted to the shielding cover via the pivot shaft, and covers the corresponding at least one insert hole. The elastic member is sleeved on the pivot shaft and elastically resists against the shielding member. An electronic device using the shielding mechanism is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignees: Fu Tai Hua Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yan Liang
  • Patent number: 8508917
    Abstract: A sealed electrical enclosure for use in hazardous locations for enclosing circuit breakers having a bottom housing and a top housing with a labyrinth joint, a serrated joint, or combination of both being formed therebetween, a first aperture extending through a first end wall of the bottom housing and positioned adjacent a first contact terminal of a first circuit breaker, the first aperture further including a first metal bus extending therethrough and in electrical contact with the first contact terminal, and a second aperture extending through a second end wall of the bottom housing and positioned adjacent a second contact terminal of the first circuit breaker, the second aperture further including a second metal bus extending therethrough and in electrical contact with the second contact terminal, and a first actuating mechanism positioned on the top housing adapted for manipulating a switch of the first circuit breaker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: EGS Electrical Group, LLC
    Inventors: Vilian Rus, Yogesh Kanole, Vijay Nadgeri
  • Publication number: 20130192869
    Abstract: An electrical floor box cover includes a frame having a lower surface disposable on a flooring surface and a beveled upper surface. The frame defines an access opening to permit access to an electrical box. A lid is securable to the frame and movable between a fully open position in which the access opening is substantially uncovered and a closed position. A lid lifting device is disposed between the lid and the frame, the lid lifting device urging the lid away from the closed position. A latch is disposed on the frame and includes an actuating member movable by a user between a latched and unlatched position without the use of a tool. When the actuating member is moved to the unlatched position, the lid lifting device lifts at least a portion of the lid above the frame to an initial open position wherein the lid substantially covers the access opening. Movement of the lid by the user from the initial open position to the fully open position is unassisted by the lid lifting device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2013
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: THOMAS & BETTS INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventor: THOMAS & BETTS INTERNATIONAL, INC.
  • Patent number: 8490815
    Abstract: Reversible nose faceplate. At least some of the illustrative embodiments are systems including a faceplate and a nose member. The nose member includes: an extension portion; a nose portion; a first abutting surface; a second abutting surface; a first set of ears coupled to the extension portion adjacent the nose portion; and a second set of ears coupled to the extension portion opposite the first set of ears. The nose member is configured to couple to the faceplate in multiple configurations, including: a first configuration in which the nose portion protrudes through a nose aperture of the faceplate in the direction of the front side of the faceplate, the first abutting surface abuts the back side of the faceplate, and the faceplate is affixed to the first set of ears; and a second configured in which the nose portion protrudes in the direction of the back side of the faceplate, the second abutting surface abuts the back side of the faceplate, and the faceplate is affixed to the second set of ears.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignee: DirectConnect
    Inventors: Charles J. Provenzano, Michael Leung
  • Patent number: 8471147
    Abstract: A cover includes an upper cover, a lower cover, a fixing member fixed to the lower cover, and a sliding member positioned between the lower cover and the fixing member. The lower cover defines a notch. The sliding member includes at least one latching portion and a toggle that is slidably received in the notch. The upper cover defines at least one opening. The at least one latching portion is slidably received in the at least one opening correspondingly to connect the upper cover to the lower cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: He-Hui Yang, Yu-Guo Gao, Kai-Kuei Wu, Kun-Chih Hsieh
  • Patent number: 8471145
    Abstract: A terminal box has a box body that has a shape of a box having an opening on one surface, has a body-side hinge structure on an end thereof, and accommodates therein an output-cable connecting unit, and a cover that has a cover-side hinge structure forming a hinge structure with the body-side hinge structure, that is pivotally supported by the hinge structure an end thereof so as to pivotally open or close the opening of the box body. The hinge structure has an attitude holding structure that holds an attitude of the cover at a position where the cover is at a predetermined angle with respect to the box body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
    Inventor: Issei Suzuki
  • Patent number: 8471146
    Abstract: A cover for use with a panelboard enclosure. The cover includes a cover element for mounting onto a panelboard enclosure. The cover element includes an insert for insertion into a cover opening. A plate section is attached to the insert along peripheral edges of the plate section by a thin wall section to form a cover suitable for use with a main lug panelboard configuration. The thin wall section is sized relative to the plate section to enable separation of the plate section from the insert by a user to then form a cover suitable for use with a main breaker panelboard configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Siemens Industry, Inc.
    Inventors: Kristopher Scott Robinson, Jeffrey Kenton Hudgins, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20130153257
    Abstract: An arrangement structure for a charging port cover includes a charging port (15) having a normal charging inlet (21) in a charging port opening portion (17). a lid (7) that covers the charging port opening portion (17) and is openable and closable on a vehicle body, and a charging port cover (35) attached to the lid (7) in an opened state to cover open sections between the charging port opening portion (17) and the lid (7). The charging port cover (35) is attached to the lid (7) via a lid-side striker (29) serving as an engaging member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2011
    Publication date: June 20, 2013
    Inventors: Junichi Yamamaru, Daisuke Takashima
  • Publication number: 20130157485
    Abstract: A charging port cover including a cover body closing an open part formed between an opening-closing body and a vehicle body in a state where the opening-closing body is opened when a charging gun is attached to a charging inlet and charging for a vehicle-mounted battery is performed, the opening-closing body capable of opening and closing an opening portion which is provided in the vehicle body and includes the charging inlet. The cover body includes a cover-side engaging member and a cover-side engaged member which engage respectively with an engaged member and an engaging member configured to engage with the engaged member, the engaged member and the engaging member being configured to engage and lock the closed opening-closing body with the vehicle body. The cover-side engaging member and the cover-side engaged member are integrated with each other by a joining member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2011
    Publication date: June 20, 2013
    Inventors: Junichi Yamamaru, Daisuke Takashima, Masaaki Takagi, Masato Inoue, Tooru Yamashita
  • Patent number: 8455759
    Abstract: An electrical assembly includes a cover assembly, an electrical component such as a circuit breaker and an adapter for mounting the electrical component to the cover assembly. The cover assembly is adapted for mounting directly to a support surface such as a marine hull where the support surface has an opening to receive the electrical component. The electrical component and adapter are received in an opening in the support surface by the cover assembly. The adapter is constructed for coupling to an electrical component and one or more different cover assemblies having different screw hole patterns where the electrical component cannot be coupled directly to the cover assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventors: Sorin Mortun, JianHua Li
  • Patent number: 8451622
    Abstract: A circuit board module includes a circuit board, a plurality of electronic components, a plurality of connectors and a cover. The circuit board includes a heat dissipation unit. The electronic components, the connectors and the heat dissipation unit are disposed on a first surface of the circuit board. The cover has a plurality of openings with the shapes and the sizes corresponding to the connectors and the heat dissipation unit. When the cover covers the circuit board, the openings expose the connectors and the heat dissipation unit. Users can plug and pull the connectors of the circuit board through the openings. The size of the cover is corresponding to the circuit board. The circuit board module is dust-proof and can prevent the users from accidentally touching the electronic components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: ASUSTeK Computer Inc.
    Inventor: Yen-Po Yu
  • Patent number: 8445780
    Abstract: The apparatus includes a mount plate secured to a wall or ceiling panel and leading to an electrical device, a frame secured thereto, a plurality of magnetic or mechanical push-touch latches secured to the frame and adapted for inward/outward movement, and a cover magnetically or mechanically, such as a pin and socket attachment assembly, connected to the latches and movable with the latches, such as to be substantially flush with the frame in the inward position and extend outwardly from the frame in the outward position such as to permit removal for access to the electrical device. Various finishing materials may be applied over any exposed portions of the apparatus, such as the mount plate, portions of the frame, and cover to match the surrounding wall panel so that the invention is substantially unnoticeable along the wall panel. The cover may also include an opening for a daily use embodiment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Inventor: Larry W. Robins
  • Patent number: 8445781
    Abstract: The electrical receptacle cover having safety bracket for use with fragrance dispenser is an improved electrical receptacle cover that can secure an object plugged into an electrical outlet via a removable safety bracket. The removable safety bracket attaches at distal ends to lock slots located on the surface of the cover, and from which the safety bracket extends outwardly in order to encircle at least a portion of a perimeter of an object plugged into a respective outlet. The electrical receptacle cover and safety bracket prevent unintended unplugging of the object with respect to the electrical outlet thereby minimizing danger posed to small and curious children.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Inventor: Nova D. Chasser
  • Patent number: 8432666
    Abstract: A method of making a panel for a switchgear cabinet is provided. In accordance with the method one or more base plates, a plurality of main cover plates of different types and a plurality of auxiliary cover plates of different types are provided. One or more main cover plates and one or more auxiliary cover plates are selected and mounted to the base plate. One or more electrical devices are mounted to at least one of the selected main cover plate and the selected auxiliary cover plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Assignee: ABB Technology AG
    Inventor: Michael G. Urmson
  • Patent number: 8420956
    Abstract: In one embodiment, an adapter may include first and second mounting portions adapted to be attached to first and second mounting portions of an electrical device, and first and second spacers arranged to space the first and second mounting portion of the electrical device away from a building surface when the electrical device is mounted to an electrical box. In another embodiment, an adapter may include a ring to surround a body of a standard electrical device, and first and second slots to receive first and second mounting portion of the standard electrical device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: Leviton Manufacturing Co., Inc.
    Inventors: R. David Alderson, Donald J. Hendler, Michael D. Williams
  • Patent number: 8410363
    Abstract: An electrical wall plate including a wall having a front surface and a rear surface with at least one opening, the opening sized to receive a face of a receptacle, a hinge secured to the front surface, a cover pivotally mounted to the front surface proximate the hinge, a latch located on the cover releaseably engaging the cover and selectively preventing pivotal movement of the cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventors: Jeffrey P. Baldwin, Richard L. Cleghorn, Iven Dieterle, Marcus J. Shotey
  • Patent number: 8410362
    Abstract: A fixing structure for the faceplate ventilation screen of a power source supplier includes a faceplate body and at least one ventilation screen. The faceplate body has an inner side formed with at least two first extension portions protruding out vertically in the same direction, and the two first extension portions have their opposite inner sides respectively provided with a first position-limiting member extending oppositely at a location adjacent to the faceplate body. The first position-limiting members are parallel to the faceplate body, and a first gap is formed between the first position-limiting members and the faceplate body for receiving two ends of the ventilation screen. The first position-limiting members can be deformed by external force toward the faceplate body for firmly fixing the ventilation screen on the faceplate body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Assignee: Chyng Hong Electronic Co.
    Inventor: Mu-Chun Lin
  • Patent number: 8404973
    Abstract: A cable entry device for routing both power cables and low voltage cables through an electrical box. The cable entry device includes an elongated base with a front side, a rear side, two ends and a plurality of apertures in each end. The front side of the elongated base includes a base extension extending there from and a cable shield extending from the base extension. The cable shield includes a top and a bottom surface that are each at an angle of approximately 45 degrees with respect to the base. The top surface is closed and the bottom surface includes a circular opening that is sized to accommodate a conventional electrical fitting therein. A raised peripheral wall extends from the rear side of the elongated base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: Arlington Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas J. Gretz
  • Patent number: 8399765
    Abstract: A safety outlet cover assembly that includes at least one button opening on a side of the cover base and at least one button opening on an opposite side of the cover base through which buttons are coupled to the base. The safety cover assembly may also include a cover configured to slide along a track on the cover base such that the cover is slidably coupled to the cover base and covers a socket face of the receptacle. The buttons may be squeeze tabs and the cover may be a split cover or include a spring element that automatically returns the cover to a closed position from an open position when an electrical plug is removed from the receptacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventors: Jeffrey P. Baldwin, Marcus J. Shotey
  • Patent number: 8389858
    Abstract: A while-in-use electrical box cover with an improved hinge mount is provided that prevents damage to the box cover when the hood is overstressed in the open position. A hood attaches to the base of the box cover by way of a hood hinge mount and a base hinge mount. A hinge pin, or some variance thereof, is used to couple the hood hinge mount and base hinge mount while maintaining free rotation of the pin. Hinge mounts are located in multiple positions allowing for horizontal or vertical mounting options of the hood. Some of the hinge mounts comprise compressible slots to prevent undue stresses which could potentially damage the hood or the hinge mounts located on the hood and base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignee: Thomas & Betts International, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark R. Drane
  • Patent number: 8383938
    Abstract: A sliding cover faceplate and an electronic device using the same are provided. The sliding cover faceplate includes a sliding cover, a cover plate, and a sliding structure. The cover plate is provided on the electronic device, and the sliding cover is disposed on one side of the cover plate. The sliding structure includes a guiding portion and an elastic positioning portion. The guiding portion is disposed on the cover plate and is connected to the sliding cover to guide the sliding cover to slide between a first location and a second location on the cover plate. The elastic positioning portion connects the cover plate with the sliding cover to provide an elastic force to the sliding cover, such that when the sliding cover slides close to the first location or the second location, the sliding cover is automatically positioned on the first location or the second location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: ASUSTek Computer Inc.
    Inventors: Chin-Lai Lin, Chih-Ming Fan, Chi-Wen Liu
  • Patent number: 8376171
    Abstract: Detachable nose faceplate. At least some of the illustrative embodiments are systems including: a faceplate that defines a front side, a back side and a nose aperture, the faceplate configured to removably attach to a surface; a nose portion that defines a top side, a bottom side, a nose edge and a lip that outlines a portion of the bottom side; and a passage defined between the faceplate and the nose edge. The nose portion is both: configured to couple to the faceplate in a first configuration in which the nose portion protrudes through the nose aperture in the direction of the front side of the faceplate and the lip abuts the back side of the faceplate; and configured to couple to the faceplate in a second configuration in which the nose portion protrudes in the direction of the back side of the faceplate and the lip abuts the back side of the faceplate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Electronic Custom Distributors, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles J. Provenzano, Michael Leung
  • Patent number: 8357853
    Abstract: A rapid mount electrical cable entry device including a rigid low voltage frame and a flexible slotted insert for routing low voltage cables through walls. The low voltage frame includes a plate with an opening therein defining an inner periphery on the plate at the opening. The low voltage frame includes mounting fasteners with attached clamp arms for securing the frame to a wall. The slotted insert includes a flexible panel with a hole therein and a plurality of open slots extending radially from the hole. The slots enable the cable entry device to accommodate passage of low voltage cables there. The slots define flaps that close around the cables after they are inserted therein, thus closing the area around the periphery of the inserted cables. Wall preparation requires only a hole saw, which minimizes installation time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2013
    Assignee: Arlington Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas J. Gretz
  • Patent number: 8357852
    Abstract: An electrical box cover includes a frame securable to an electrical box. The frame defines an opening to permit access to the electrical box. A lid is pivotally mounted to the frame and movable between an open and closed position. A lid biasing device is disposed between the lid and the frame, the lid biasing device urging the lid away from the closed position. A latch is disposed on the frame and movable between a latched and unlatched position. The latch, when in the latched position, engages the lid and retaining the lid in the closed position. When the latch is in the unlatched position, the lid biasing device lifts at least a portion of the lid at least partially above the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2013
    Assignee: Thomas & Betts International, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark R. Drane
  • Patent number: 8354588
    Abstract: A covering for a plug and socket connection mounted in a housing is provided with a cover that covers the plug and socket connection in closed position and which is pivotable from the closed position into an open position in which it releases the plug and socket connection. The cover is mounted pivotable at a guide component. The guide component is mounted displaceable in a receptacle of the housing. In its open position, the cover is aligned with the guide component and can be inserted together with it into the receptacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2013
    Assignee: MC Technology GmbH
    Inventors: Rolf Sticker, Stefanie Palka
  • Patent number: 8350154
    Abstract: A wall plate comprising a housing defining a wall plate perimeter, a pair of mounting members integral to the housing, at least one mounting flange having an aperture and being removably secured to the pair of mounting members, and a mounting screw for securing an electrical device to the at least one mounting flange.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventor: Michael J. Shotey
  • Patent number: 8350153
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a locking mechanism for joining sections to enable plates to be separated, then reconnected and securely interlocked. A variety of plate configurations may be utilized with the locking mechanism in applications such as cable pass-through, electrical wiring, or any application in which the engagement of structures is desired. The locking mechanism embodying the principles of the present invention includes outwardly extending finger detents adjacent to the cantilever tabs of each plate that slideably engage the bottom surface of an opposing plate section and create resistive forces between the interlocked cantilever tabs. The addition of the finger detents increases the inter-mating strength of the locked plate by providing a resistive moment arm to resist outward forces acting to separate the plate sections. The cantilever tabs further include a locking lip that engages a locking means of an opposing plate section to resist lateral forces acting to separate the plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Inventor: Thomas J. DeCosta
  • Patent number: 8344251
    Abstract: The present disclosure describes a plate assembly for an electrical outlet. In some embodiments, the plate assembly includes a strapping plate that is attachable to the electrical outlet, and a cover plate sub-assembly that is selectively attachable to the strapping plate. In some embodiments, the cover plate sub-assembly includes a body portion that lies in a first plane, and a first retention member that is fixed to the body portion, and that lies in a second plane parallel to the first plane. The first retention member selectively engages the strapping plate to releasably secure the cover plate sub-assembly thereto. Embodiments of an electrical outlet assembly that implement the plate assembly are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignee: 360 Electrical, LLC
    Inventor: Brandon Eshelman
  • Patent number: 8338706
    Abstract: An assembly includes a mud ring and a detachable cover. The mud ring includes a planar surface including slots for mounting the mud ring to a utility box. The mud ring also includes a raised portion comprising side walls and end walls, the raised portion being elevated with respect to the planar surface. The detachable cover is connected to the raised portion by at least one hinged mechanism, the hinged mechanism being configured to be broken away from the mud ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignee: Thomas & Betts International, Inc.
    Inventor: Joey D. Magno, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8334459
    Abstract: A cover plate (2) for electrical apparatus (1) includes at least one opening (22, 32) intended to provide access to at least one functional part (5) of the electrical apparatus and which is formed by superimposing a rear mounting plate (20, 30) fitted at the back with elements for mounting on an apparatus support (4) and a front finish plate (10) giving the cover plate an aesthetic appearance. The rear mounting plate includes on its front side a recessed housing (24) which completely houses the front finish plate, such that the front side (11) of the front finish plate extends flush with or is slightly back from the front side (21) of the rear mounting plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2012
    Assignees: Legrand France, Legrand SNC
    Inventors: Jean-Luc Chaumeny, Laurent Petit, Denys Toulemonde
  • Patent number: 8324500
    Abstract: An electrical outlet safety cap is easily removed from an electrical outlet by adults but not by children. The safety cap includes a disk, prong or prongs, and at least one keyhole. The prongs extend outwardly from the rear surface of the disk. When in place, the prongs are secured tightly in the contact holes to prevent removal by children. The rear surface of the disk has one or more keyholes. To remove the safety cap, the prong of a second safety cap is slid into the keyhole of a first safety cap that is in use. The second safety cap is pulled outward, away from the electrical outlet, removing the prongs of the first safety cap from the contact holes to free the first safety cap from the electrical outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: Rhoost LLC.
    Inventors: Vianka Perez Belyea, Tavinder Phull
  • Patent number: 8324516
    Abstract: A rapid mount cable entry device for routing low voltage cables through walls including an assembly of a low voltage frame, a flexible slotted insert, and a retainer ring that holds the assembly securely together. The low voltage frame includes a plate with an opening therein defining an inner periphery at the opening and mounting fasteners with attached clamp arms for securing the frame to a wall. The slotted insert includes a flexible panel with a hole therein and a plurality of open slots extending radially from the hole. The slots enable the cable entry device to accommodate passage of low voltage cables there through. The slots define flaps that close around the cables after they are inserted therein, thus closing the area around the periphery of the inserted cables. The cable entry device can be quickly secured to a wall as wall preparation time is minimal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: Arlington Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas J. Gretz