Including Panel Board Patents (Class 361/644)
  • Patent number: 7848085
    Abstract: A power distribution system is provided that includes an upper panel, a lower panel, a plurality of side panels, and a plurality of guide rails each having at least two insert slots formed therein that extend along a longitudinal axis of the guide rail. Each of the insert slots is configured to receive and fixedly hold an edge of the side panels. The upper panel and lower panel are each fixedly mounted to an opposite edge face of the guide rails thereby securing the side panels and guide rail between the upper panel and lower panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2010
    Inventor: Martin Gerber
  • Patent number: 7839623
    Abstract: A modular power distribution system comprises a chassis and a backplane including a power input, and a plurality of module connection locations. A plurality of modules are mounted in the chassis, each module mounted to one of the module connection locations. Each module includes: (i) a circuit protection device; and (ii) a power output connection location. Bus bars connect front power inputs to the backplane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2010
    Assignee: ADC Telecommunications, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph Coffey, David Johnsen, Duane Sand, Bradley Blichfeldt
  • Patent number: 7729105
    Abstract: Aspects of the inventive technology may relate to a physical enclosure designed to house electrical componentry inside. More specifically, the inventive technology may relate to a physical enclosure that is designed to allow for the enclosure, perhaps within the same, unitary structure, of conductors (wires) as they enter the ground and wire splice devices that connect those wires with wires of smaller diameter. Aspects of the inventive technology may relate to provision of a wire splice mount(s) that hold splices in fixed position relative to the physical enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Prod-X, Inc.
    Inventor: Tate D. Schipporeit
  • Patent number: 7706134
    Abstract: Described herein are various embodiments of a power distribution unit having modular components. For example, according to one embodiment, a power distribution unit can include a component portion that comprises at least two modules selected from the group consisting of outlet modules, circuit protection modules, power input modules, communications I/O modules, and display modules. Each of the at least two modules of the component portion can comprise at least one connection element and can be removably secured to one or more other of the at least two modules via the connection elements. The power distribution unit can also include a housing that defines an interior cavity. The component portion can be removably secured to the housing at least partially within the interior cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Assignee: Server Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Carrel W. Ewing, Andrew J. Cleveland, James P. Maskaly, Dave Greenblat, Brandon W. Ewing
  • Patent number: 7688573
    Abstract: A cover assembly is provided for an enclosure, such as an electrical enclosure. The enclosure includes a panel member and a plurality of sides extending outwardly from the panel member to define an interior. The cover assembly includes an inner cover, at least one fastening mechanism fastening the inner cover to the enclosure, a trim member at least partially overlaying the inner cover, and at least one biasing assembly coupling the trim member to the inner cover. The at least one biasing assembly biases the trim member toward the inner cover, and is structured to bias the trim member toward an exterior surface of a structure, such as a building wall, to which the electrical enclosure is coupled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventor: Michael J. Ranta
  • Publication number: 20100046147
    Abstract: A cover assembly is provided for an enclosure, such as an electrical enclosure. The enclosure includes a panel member and a plurality of sides extending outwardly from the panel member to define an interior. The cover assembly includes an inner cover, at least one fastening mechanism fastening the inner cover to the enclosure, a trim member at least partially overlaying the inner cover, and at least one biasing assembly coupling the trim member to the inner cover. The at least one biasing assembly biases the trim member toward the inner cover, and is structured to bias the trim member toward an exterior surface of a structure, such as a building wall, to which the electrical enclosure is coupled.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2008
    Publication date: February 25, 2010
    Inventor: Michael J. Ranta
  • Patent number: 7646590
    Abstract: A power distribution apparatus includes a housing holding a plurality of electrical outlets, a plurality of independent electrical circuits within the housing, and a plurality of cord sets serving the plurality of independent electrical circuits and extending from the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2010
    Assignee: Exaflop LLC
    Inventors: Selver Corhodzic, Andrew Carlson, Montgomery Sykora, Winnie Leung, Jonathan D. Beck, Alan Lam, Jimmy Clidaras, William Hamburgen
  • Publication number: 20090225501
    Abstract: An electrical distribution panel includes first and second power inputs, a first circuit breaker electrically between the first power input and a first load bus, a second load bus, an automatic transfer switch having a first input electrically connected to the first load bus, a second input electrically connected to the second power input, and an output electrically connected to the second load bus. The transfer switch selectively electrically connects one of the first and second inputs to the output thereof. Pairs of circuit breakers each includes a second breaker having a first terminal electrically connected to the first load bus, and a second terminal, a third breaker including a first terminal electrically connected to the second load bus, and a second terminal, a power output electrically connected to the second terminals, and an interlock cooperating with the circuit breaker pair to prevent both of them from being closed simultaneously.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2008
    Publication date: September 10, 2009
    Inventors: CHARLES J. LUEBKE, MARK A. JUDS
  • Patent number: 7558973
    Abstract: A blade server equipped with hot plug function mainly includes a plurality of small servers which have respectively a logic processing main board and a power adapter card to be electrically connected to the logic processing main board in normal conditions. A power integration panel is provided that has a coupling port to be coupled with a power input port of the power adapter card in a hot plug fashion. Thus a general logic processing main board can be used on a blade server and equipped with hot plug function without the need of fabricating another logic processing main board of a special specification.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2009
    Assignee: Zippy Technology Corp.
    Inventor: Yung-Hsin Huang
  • Patent number: 7515400
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a circuit breaker box and monitoring system. The circuit breaker box includes a circuit breaker panel and a door allowing the circuit breaker panel to be hidden from view. The circuit breaker monitoring system will inform the pilot if a circuit breaker has tripped.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2009
    Assignee: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
    Inventors: Brian Healy, Makoto Isomura, Bassam Chamas, Garrick Talavera
  • Publication number: 20090046415
    Abstract: Aspects of the invention are directed to power distribution systems and methods for distributing power from a primary power source and a backup power source to a load. In one particular aspect, a power distribution system includes a first input to receive input power from the primary power source, a second input to receive input power from the backup power source, an output that provides output power from at least one of the primary power source and the backup power source, a first switch operatively coupled to the first input and the output and operative to selectively couple the first input to the output, a second switch operatively coupled to the second input and the output and operative to selectively couple the second input to the output, and a controller operatively coupled to the first switch and to the second switch and configured to control the first switch and the second switch to provide an electrical interlock.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 22, 2008
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Applicant: AMERICAN POWER CONVERSION CORPORATION
    Inventors: Neil Rasmussen, William Ziegler, David A. Colucci
  • Patent number: 7468883
    Abstract: An electric power distribution panel includes a plurality of slots for supplying power to circuit breakers, a first input bus for coupling to a first power source, a second input bus for coupling to a second power source, and a plurality of circuit breaker carriers. Each carrier is positioned in one of the slots and selectably movable in its slot between a first position for coupling a circuit breaker to the first input bus, and a second position for coupling a circuit breaker to the second input bus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2008
    Assignee: Emerson Network Power, Energy Systems, North America, Inc.
    Inventor: Raymond A. Mann
  • Patent number: 7457106
    Abstract: Described herein are various embodiments of a power distribution unit having modular components. For example, according to one embodiment, a power distribution unit can include a component portion that comprises at least two modules selected from the group consisting of outlet modules, circuit protection modules, power input modules, communications I/O modules, and display modules. Each of the at least two modules of the component portion can comprise at least one connection element and can be removably secured to one or more other of the at least two modules via the connection elements. The power distribution unit can also include a housing that defines an interior cavity. The component portion can be removably secured to the housing at least partially within the interior cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2008
    Assignee: Server Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Carrel W. Ewing, Andrew J. Cleveland, James P. Maskaly, Dave Greenblat, Brandon W. Ewing
  • Patent number: 7405923
    Abstract: The invention provides a circuit breaker panel with several safety features. The main breaker is separated from the circuit breakers by a non-conducting shield. The main breaker is also covered by a transparent, non-conducting shield. A further transparent non-conducting shield separates the circuit breakers from the neutral and ground bus bars. The neutral and ground bus bars are offset from one another to prevent wire crowding. Bending posts extending from the back plate of the panel help control the wire in the panel to prevent it from crossing bus bars or circuit breakers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2008
    Assignee: Golden Technology Management, LLC
    Inventors: Sean F. Kelly, John P. Gaus
  • Patent number: 7385805
    Abstract: An uninterruptible power supply that provides power to an electrical device, the uninterruptible power supply that includes a first housing; a cover plate that includes a plurality of electrical outlets located on a surface of the cover plate and said cover plate is connected to the first housing in an angled position; and a battery in electrical communication with the plurality of electrical outlets on the surface of the cover plate, and the battery being removably attached to the first housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2008
    Assignee: American Power Conversion Corporation
    Inventors: Mark H. Germagian, Benjamin J. Beck, Andrew R. Woodward
  • Patent number: 7372692
    Abstract: An interior assembly for a load center includes a base member disposed at or about a panel member of the load center housing, a first bus bar assembly disposed on the base member, and a first insulating member overlaying the first bus bar assembly and being coupled to the base member. A first portion of the first insulating member receives circuit breakers of the load center, and a second portion receives a second bus bar assembly. A second insulating member overlays the second bus bar assembly and is coupled to the second portion of the first insulating member. A neutral bus bar is coupled to the second insulating member. A fastening mechanism fastens the interior assembly to the panel member. The base member, first and second bus bar assemblies, first and second insulating members, and neutral bus bar are secured together without the use of separate fasteners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2008
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Michael J. Ranta, James L. Gehlbach
  • Patent number: 7365964
    Abstract: A modular power distribution unit (PDU) for supplying electric power to attached equipment in environments such as data centers, computer rooms, and communication centers, where power requirements for attached equipment may vary. The power distribution unit includes a frame and one or more user-replaceable power modules, which fit into slots in the frame. Each power module provides one of more plug receptacles for attaching equipment to provide power thereto. The power modules are available in a variety of receptacle types, receptacle numbers, and power rating configurations to accommodate various equipment in a particular environment, as needed. The frame includes an internal connector panel for distributing power from a power source to the power modules when they are inserted in the frame. The power modules may be removed, installed, and interchanged in the frame without interrupting power to other power modules or to the power distribution unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2008
    Inventor: William F. Donahue, IV
  • Patent number: 7298606
    Abstract: A multi-pole mounting base for interfacing a circuit breaker and/or circuit interrupter with an electrical panel is disclosed. The electrical panel has an interior configured to receive remote operated circuit breakers (ROCBs) in signal communication with a communication board internal to the electrical panel, non-ROCBs, and ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCls). The mounting base includes a unitary support platform assemblable to the interior of the electrical panel and having first mounting regions with common structure configured to receive any one of the ROCBs, the non-ROCBs, and the GFCls. The support platform also has second mounting regions configured to receive the communication board. The support platform is configured to assemble adjacent to another support platform in the electrical panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2007
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Andre Joseph M'Sadoques, Joseph G. Nagy, Dennis Zuffelato, Yatin Vilas Newase
  • Patent number: 7286339
    Abstract: An underground combination service entrance apparatus for temporary and permanent service comprising two enclosures. A utility enclosure contains a meter socket and the second enclosure contains a breaker panel. The breaker panel on the customer side and the meter on the utility side meet NEC requirements and the local utility company regulations. An optional section in the utility enclosure provides a raceway space for routing wiring. Knockout holes are provided on the utility enclosure for installation of a hub for running wires to and from the service apparatus. The enclosures can be semi-flushed mounted. The two enclosures are isolated from each other, fastened together, and mounted on a wall. A removable hood is provided to weatherproof the customer enclosure for temporary use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2007
    Inventor: William C. Baca
  • Patent number: 7209343
    Abstract: An adjustable riser assembly for retrofitting an existing panel board enclosure with a replacement interior has a pair of base members secured to the rear wall of the enclosure with base flanges projecting forward. A floating member has end pieces with floating flanges that overlap and are joined to the base flanges by fasteners that engage selected ones of a second set of holes in each floating flange aligned along a first linear axis and a first set of holes in each base flange arranged in two rows each parallel to a second linear axis that is oblique to the first linear axis to adjust the height of the riser assembly. One or two planar members extending between the end pieces have a fourth set of holes that can be selectively aligned with a third set of holes in the end pieces for engagement by second fasteners to adjust the length of the riser assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Scot E. Remmert, Matthew D. Occhipinti, Julie C. Jurgens
  • Patent number: 7136277
    Abstract: There is provided a method and a basepan assembly for a panel board. The basepan assembly comprises a basepan having a bottom portion and at least one sidewall. A first bus bar is mounted in the bottom portion of the basepan. A second bus bar is mounted to its side proximate the side wall of the basepan. The side wall can include fasteners to couple the second bus bar to the side wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2006
    Assignee: Siemens Energy & Automation, Inc.
    Inventors: Reggie Davis, Jeffrey K. Hudgins, Jr., Brian Rusch
  • Patent number: 7005996
    Abstract: A power distribution panel with a chassis defining an interior with a first opening and a second opposing opening. The panel including a module with a bottom, a first face and a second face, and including a power input terminal, a plurality of power output terminals, and an electrical circuit connecting each power output terminal to the power input terminal, each circuit including a circuit protection device. The power input terminal, the power output terminals and the circuit protection devices are mounted to one of the first or second faces. The module is configured to be received through the first opening and removably mounted within the interior so that the power input terminal, the power output terminals and the circuit protection devices are accessible through one of the first and second openings when the module is mounted within the chassis. A module including power distribution components and circuitry adapted to be removably mounted within a power distribution panel chassis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Assignee: ADC Telecommunications, Inc.
    Inventors: Carlos Cabrera, Delfino Hernandez, David J. Johnsen
  • Patent number: 6999305
    Abstract: A modular electrical distribution system includes a number of linked segments. A first electrical component is mounted in one of the segments and a second electrical component is mounted in another one of the segments. The first and second electrical components are made by different manufacturers. The linked segments are configured to be transported as a single unit without an additional external framework.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Assignee: Delaware Capital Formation, Inc.
    Inventor: Grady L. Calcote
  • Patent number: 6937461
    Abstract: A modular power distribution unit (PDU) for supplying electric power to attached equipment in environments such as data centers, computer rooms, and communication centers, where power requirements for attached equipment may vary. The power distribution unit includes a frame and one or more user-replaceable power modules, which fit into slots in the frame. Each power module provides one of more plug receptacles for attaching equipment to provide power thereto. The power modules are available in a variety of receptacle types, receptacle numbers, and power rating configurations to accommodate various equipment in a particular environment, as needed. The frame includes an internal connector panel for distributing power from a power source to the power modules when they are inserted in the frame. The power modules may be removed, installed, and interchanged in the frame without interrupting power to other power modules or to the power distribution unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2005
    Inventor: William F. Donahue, IV
  • Patent number: 6530811
    Abstract: An assembly for mechanically mounting and providing electrical connections to overcurrent protection devices having first and second male power plugs includes a non-conductive main structural support member having a plurality of plug passageways formed therein and one or more load busbar modules mounted thereon and also including a plug passageway formed therein, to enable the male electrical plugs to mate with sockets disposed in a conductive line busbar member mounted on said support member and with a socket disposed in a load busbar member included in each load busbar module. Each load busbar module includes a non-conductive housing and a releasable cover within which is mounted the load busbar member. A printed circuit board substrate is preferably also mounted to said support member to provide a support surface for auxiliary signal clip connectors disposed on one side of the substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2003
    Assignee: Astec International Limited
    Inventors: Michael Padulo, Imad Ghanem, Denis Mayer
  • Publication number: 20020057551
    Abstract: A method of preventing vibration loosening of a clamping screw 26 of a circuit protection apparatus 10 is provided. The circuit protection apparatus 10 has a conductor receiving member 28 including a conductor receiving opening 40 for receiving an electrical conductor 46 therein. The conductor receiving member 28 has an aperture 42 extending from a surface 50 thereof into communication with the conductor receiving opening 40. An overall extent of the aperture 42 includes threads. The method provides a clamping screw 26 having a threaded shaft 50. The threaded shaft 50 has a surface feature 52 in the threads thereof near an end 54 of the shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2001
    Publication date: May 16, 2002
    Applicant: Siemens Energy & Automation, Inc
    Inventors: Daniel S. Redler, Jon D. Pickens, Richard Hudson
  • Publication number: 20020000757
    Abstract: A power transfer device having various electrical components adapted for interconnection with the electrical system of a building includes a cabinet having a face plate provided with a socket opening which normally accommodates a power input receptacle adapted to receive a plug connector electrically connected to a generator. The power transfer device includes an internal compartment defined by the cabinet, and a set of connections corresponding to the electrical components located within the internal compartment. A cover plate terminal assembly is removably connected to the face plate for covering the socket opening to prevent access to the internal compartment and for providing a direct, permanently wired power input arrangement rather than a plug-type power input via a power input receptacle. The cover plate terminal assembly is also electrically interconnected with the electrical component connections in the internal compartment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 1999
    Publication date: January 3, 2002
    Inventor: DAVID D. FLEGEL
  • Patent number: 6317311
    Abstract: Contact bands for electrically connecting pluggable circuit breakers to ground and to distribution wires in a wiring system are housed in respective housings for protection. The housings are mounted on modular circuit breaker bus bar assemblies adapted to pluggably receive the pluggable circuit breakers, which have posts for pluggably engaging associated contact bands.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2001
    Assignee: TVM Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard J. Middlehurst, Donald E. Wood, Jason S. Sloey
  • Patent number: 6313980
    Abstract: A panelboard or switchboard enclosure 10 for a plurality of electrical distribution components 34 includes a face panel 14 with an opening 26 formed in a central portion thereof. A filler plate 12 extends across the opening 26 and is secured to the face panel 14. The face panel 14 is secured to the frame of a box assembly or cabinet 16 by fasteners 30. Releasing fasteners 30 allows the face panel 14 and all filler plates to be removed. A first end 50 of the filler plate 12 is pivotally secured to the face panel 14 by a hinge 36, and a second end 54 is releasably secured to the face panel 14 by a fastener 38. Individual filler plates can be opened by releasing the fastener 38 and pivoting the filler plate 12 about the hinge 36 to reveal the electrical distribution component(s) 34 beneath that filler plate 12.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Hamon L. Craft, Edward G. Barber, Mike P. Lafond, Robert J. Caggiano, Robert L. Hilgendorf
  • Patent number: 6262880
    Abstract: A circuit breaker mounting assembly comprises an enclosure for holding at least one circuit breaker, with the circuit breaker being mounted within said enclosure; a terminal block mounted within the enclosure at a location remote from the circuit breaker, the terminal block including a plurality of input connections and a plurality of output connections; a plurality of control wires extending from the circuit breaker to the terminal block; and a mounting bracket for positioning the terminal block in a first position within the enclosure and for permitting the terminal block to be moved to a second location outside of the enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2001
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Kenneth Martin Fischer, Kelly Julia McCarthy, Joseph Bell Humbert
  • Patent number: 6242698
    Abstract: A cable management system includes an adapter plate disposed between a panel and a cabling component, such as a wiring block or wiring trough. The adapter plate includes a first plurality of fasteners and a first plurality of alignment pins extending orthogonally from a first surface, and second plurality of fasteners and a second plurality of alignment pins extending orthogonally from a second surface. The first plurality of fasteners engage tabs formed on the panel and the second plurality of fasteners engage features formed on the cabling component. The first plurality of alignment pins are disposed to engage alignment apertures formed in the panel. The second plurality of alignment pins are disposed to engage alignment apertures formed in the cabling component. The adapter plate can include an abutment portion disposed to abut the panel and cooperate with the first plurality of fasteners to position the adapter plate relative to the panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2001
    Assignee: Avaya Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Frank Phillips Baker, III, Golam Mabud Choudhury, Theodore Alan Conorich, Lyndon Dee Ensz, Wayne Scott Filus, William John Ivan, John Anthony Rutkowski
  • Patent number: 6201687
    Abstract: A modular furniture wall system includes active telecommunications equipment and wire management in an open office architecture and effectively provides a telecommunications closet as part of the office furniture. Slip-fit styled U-shaped members are attached to vertical frame members which form a rectangular opening within the furniture frame. L-shaped members are adjustable connected to each other and between the U-shaped members for providing a channel for routing wire between extending legs of the L-shaped members and a spaced support for the mounting of standard electrical equipment. Opposing pairs of shelf elements are carried by opposing surfaces of the U-shaped member and the L-shaped member, respectively, with each of the opposing pair of shelf elements having a horizontal surface for supporting equipment such as active telecommunications switches, patch panels and cross-connects with their front surfaces facing upward.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2001
    Assignee: American Access Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard A. Murray
  • Patent number: 6144548
    Abstract: A gauge assembly is provided including a terminal carrier including a base portion, a head portion extending from a first side of the base portion, and a plurality of legs extending from a second side of the base portion. The head portion includes a twist lock locking element disposed on a side thereof. A bobbin and coil assembly is supported by the terminal carrier. The bobbin and coil assembly rotatably supports a spindle and magnet. A plurality of electrical terminals extend through the base portion of the terminal carrier and terminate at one end into a bent contact portion adjacent to the head portion which engage electrical contact pads disposed on the printed circuit board. The electrical terminals have a second end electrically connected to a coil of the bobbin and coil assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2000
    Assignee: DaimlerChrysler Corporation
    Inventor: Robert B. Kerchaert
  • Patent number: 6122160
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an arrangement for connecting one or more circuit breakers (7) directly to a distribution unit (10) for supplying power to radio base stations and for charging the batteries of such stations. As a result of mutually separating bottom circuit breaker connectors (8) and upper circuit breaker connectors in a power bar (9) constructed in accordance with the invention, the circuit breakers can be connected directly without requiring the presence of a circuit breaker holder to this end, therewith reducing the amount of space required for establishing such connections with respect to earlier known techniques.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2000
    Assignee: Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson
    Inventor: Taru Johanna Hannula
  • Patent number: 6067023
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for distributing power includes a housing, at least one input terminal, and at least one output terminal. The input and output terminals are each positioned in the housing. The input terminal is operatively connected to the output terminal. At least one circuit breaker is positioned in the housing. The circuit breaker includes an on position and an off position. The circuit breaker is operatively connected to the input terminal and the output terminal. An alarm circuit is operatively connected to the output terminal to prevent an alarm signal when an electronic chassis is not operatively connected to the output terminal and the circuit breaker is in the off position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2000
    Assignee: 3COM Corporation
    Inventor: Laura M. Bendikas
  • Patent number: 6061230
    Abstract: A panelboard/switchboard assembly for accommodating bolt-on modules, plug-in modules and lugs. The panelboard/switchboard includes vertical, edge forward bus bars having a plurality of openings formed therein. The edge forward alignment allows plug-in modules to be mounted to the bus bars. The openings in the bus bars receive bolts for mounting straps to the bus bars and for mounting lugs to the bus bars. The openings have a shape having at least one linear element and receive a bolt having an anti-rotation portion with a similar shape. The interference between the opening and the anti-rotation portion of the bolt prevents the straps, and the modules connected to the straps, from rotating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2000
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Kevin D. Mazzella, Kevin F. Nolan, Rick A. Vonrotz, Thomas F. Vrnak, Melanie A. Lewis, Grady W. Broadnax, Jr., Robert R. Leclair, Robert B. Wallace, Jeremy Palmer, Hamon L. Craft
  • Patent number: 6002580
    Abstract: A circuit breaker power distribution panel which is constructed in the form of a single unit. The panel includes an electrically insulative base which include first and second electrical connectors that are to respectfully removably connect to mating electrical terminals of a circuit breaker. The circuit breaker is to be removably connected to the panel. Imbedded within the panel and mounted on the electrically insulative base is an input busbar and an output busbar. The first electrical connector is part of the input busbar. The input busbar is electrically connected to the circuit breakers with the power from the circuit breakers being transmitted to the second electrical connectors which are also imbedded within the panel. A load terminal connects with each second electrical connector with there being a separate load terminal for each second electrical connector. There is a separate load for each circuit breaker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1999
    Assignee: Power Distribution Products International
    Inventors: Daniel M. LeVantine, Paul M. Deters
  • Patent number: 5973914
    Abstract: An attachment for attaching a main circuit breaker in an electrical panel has a uniquely constructed hold-down for the circuit breaker and a headed screw for fastening the hold-down in the panel. The hold-down is a non-electrically conductive part, such as a plastic. A circuit-breaker-engaging projection for engaging a circuit breaker projects from a first side of the hold-down body and a gripping tab projects from a second side of the body opposite the first side. A shank of the headed screw passes through a through-hole in the hold-down body to thread into a hole in a base pan. The screw is tightened against the hold-down body to hold it, and in turn the main circuit breaker, in place. In such an installed condition, the main circuit breaker cannot be removed easily from the panel unless the screw is intentionally unscrewed by a tool sufficiently to allow movement of the hold-down to a position that enables the main circuit breaker to be removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1999
    Assignee: Siemens Energy & Automation, Inc.
    Inventors: William E. Rose, Samuel C. Strawn, Edward L. Tevis
  • Patent number: 5959844
    Abstract: An instrument cluster having a housing, a system support (21) to receive indicating instruments, and a circuit board (6) which is connected by fastening elements (35) to the system support (21) and mounted in floating fashion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 28, 1999
    Assignee: VDO Adolf Schindling AG
    Inventors: Ernst-Ulrich Simon, Stephan Zech, Norbert May
  • Patent number: 5877944
    Abstract: An internal circuit, which is constituted by one of a printed circuit board and an FPC, and has small-current conductive paths arranged at a small pitch, is provided within a casing and of the electric connection box, and a small integrated fuse is mounted on the printed circuit board or the FPC, and fuses of the small integrated fuse are connected respectively to the small-current conductive paths, and electronic devices are mounted on the printed circuit board or the FPC.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 2, 1999
    Assignees: Harness System Technologies Research, Ltd., Sumitomo Wiring Systems, Ltd., Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd.
    Inventor: Takahiro Onizuka
  • Patent number: 5870276
    Abstract: The invention provides a combination service entrance device which contains a common enclosure, divided by a center barrier into two sections. One houses a watt-hour meter socket and the other houses a panel board containing circuit breakers. The panel board is installed on an elevated mounting pan placed in the circuit breaker section. One side of the mounting panel preferably has a pair of tabs, each of which slides into a separate lance or guide formed in the center barrier. A pair of spaced posts are attached between the side opposite the barrier and the back panel of the enclosure. The length of the posts defines the gap between the back panel and the panel board. An elevated neutral bar is attached to the back panel along and distant from the mounting panel. The panel board remains parallel to and raised from the back panel. The elevated mounting pan provides for routing wires in the circuit breaker section and easier access to the load connections of the circuit breakers compared to prior art devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 9, 1999
    Assignee: Square D Company
    Inventors: Thomas C. Leach, Larry D. Polston, Gary D. Fornash
  • Patent number: 5831813
    Abstract: A breaker box front panel with window assembly including a breaker box and a plurality of switches situated within an interior space of the breaker box. The switches are connected between ends of a pair of associated wires which are situated adjacent the corresponding switch. The wires include a first wire connected to a power source and a second wire connected to an appliance. The switches have a first orientation for allowing transmission of power from the power source to the appliance and a second orientation for precluding transmission of power from the power source to the appliance. Further provided is a front panel secured about a front opening of the breaker box. The front panel is adapted to allow the manipulation of the switches and have at least one cut out vertically formed therein. As such, the wires associated with each switch can be seen through the cut out.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1998
    Inventor: Thomas Gomez
  • Patent number: 5784250
    Abstract: An electric load center having a basepan having a surface neutral bar wire guide comprising a wall upwardly extending from the surface member and having semicircular slots extending therethrough at an upper surface for receiving and guiding a return wire into an aperture in the neutral bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 21, 1998
    Assignee: Siemens Energy & Automation, Inc.
    Inventor: William E. Rose
  • Patent number: 5751543
    Abstract: A slidable sealing cover assembly for unmetered electrical horizontal bus connections arranged in a customer compartment adjacent to a utility compartment for a panel board arrangement. The sealing cover assembly employs a cover member and a slide member attached to each end of the cover member. The cover assembly is slidably mounted on an existing fixed bus housing for the bus connections. A slotted end of each slide member extends into the utility compartment, and a slidable latching mechanism mounted on a wall of the utility compartment engages the slotted end of each slide member. When the cover member is positioned over the bus connections in the customer compartment, the slidable latching mechanisms are operated to enter the slot on the slotted end of each slide member so that the hinged door to the utility compartment can be closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 12, 1998
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Donald F. Gehrs, Robert E. Craddock
  • Patent number: 5675194
    Abstract: A modular power distribution system is ideally suited for use in modular buildings of the type in which prefabricated building modules are constructed at a manufacturing factory and shipped to a remote building site where the modules are interconnected to form the complete structure. The modular power distribution system includes a primary power distribution panel positioned in one of the building modules and is adapted to distribute power from the utility service to the building modules. Modular power distribution units positioned in each of the building modules are adapted to distribute power within a respective building module. The primary power distribution panel has a plurality of main circuit breakers, each of which is electrically connected between the utility service and one of the modular power distribution units for limiting the maximum current through a respective modular power distribution unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 7, 1997
    Assignee: Walker Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Charles N. Domigan
  • Patent number: 5640295
    Abstract: The present invention provides an interior panel assembly for a load center having a plurality of adjacent components for distributing electrical service to branch circuits. The panel assembly includes at least one bus bar formed with branch stabs for electrically connecting to terminals extending from a plurality of circuit interrupters and a generally planar support base having a front face for securing each bus bar. One end of each bus bar is adapted for electrical and mechanical connection to one of the adjacent components. The panel assembly aligns the interior panel assembly relative to an adjacent component and relative to an enclosure for the load center so that the adjacent component connects electrical service to each bus bar and the interior panel assembly secures within the enclosure. Preferably, at least one pair of flanges is integrally formed along the circumference of the support base. The pair of flanges are positioned along opposing ends of the support base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 17, 1997
    Assignee: Square D Company
    Inventors: Michael Ray Harris, Norman Michael Newsome, Randall Lee Blue
  • Patent number: 5594285
    Abstract: An electric power distribution center for use on aircraft comprises a space frame having a first surface defining a plurality of sockets, and a second, generally parallel, surface defining a plurality of connector ports; a plurality of conducting bus bars utilizing a three dimensional routing configuration encapsulated within the space frame; current sensors integrally mounted within the space frame for monitoring the flow of electrical current through the conducting bus bars; and a printed circuit board encapsulated within the space frame for providing electrical circuit pathways within the power distribution center. Further, a plurality of load protection and control devices, seated within the sockets of the first surface, provide a switchable coupling between the bus bars and the printed circuit board to control the distribution of electric power to the individual aircraft loads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 14, 1997
    Assignee: Sundstrand Corporation
    Inventors: Peter J. Wisbey, Lee R. Rateike
  • Patent number: 5379972
    Abstract: An equipment support can be attached to the body of trunking having two inwardly facing lips. The support has on each edge of each of two mutually orthogonal pairs of opposite edges of unequal length a groove which can be engaged on these lips.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1995
    Assignee: Legrand
    Inventors: Bertrand Decore, Francois Perrignon de Troyes
  • Patent number: 5326934
    Abstract: A system which manages the wiring and cabling needed by individual workstations (12) within an environment (10) having numerous workstations (12) is disclosed. Collective connectivity is utilized to couple a multi-commodity expansion cabinet, MCEC, (14) to building services (26, 28). The MCEC (14) transforms the collective connectivity into individual connectivity. Workstations (12) are grouped together into workstation clusters (30). A single MCEC (14) is assigned to each cluster (30). Individual connectivity is utilized to couple the MCEC (14) to the workstations (12) in the MCECs (14) cluster (30). The MCEC (14) is configured for use in and around high traffic areas in a building. The MCEC (14) is dimensioned for minimal size and compatibility with modern building practices. Individual raceways (68, 70) are provided for routing communication and power wiring. Various equipment bays (88, 94) are provided between the raceways (68, 70).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 1991
    Date of Patent: July 5, 1994
    Assignee: Communication Integrators Inc.
    Inventors: Dolan M. LeMaster, Gary H. Beals
  • Patent number: 5233511
    Abstract: In a panelboard for controlling current paths through a plurality of associated circuit breakers, a panelboard enclosure includes circuit breakers which each have a side facing a front side of the enclosure and including a multi-sectioned user interface circuit, that is configured to communicate with at least one of the circuit breakers. The interface circuit includes a first circuit section and a second circuit section. The first circuit section is located adjacent the back wall of the enclosure and behind the second circuit section, and the second circuit section includes communication means for allowing an operator at the front of the enclosure to communicate with the circuit breakers. This arrangement minimizes heat in the back of the enclosure, provides control and monitoring functions at the front of the enclosure and allows room for additional circuitry in the back of the enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 1991
    Date of Patent: August 3, 1993
    Assignee: Square D Company
    Inventors: Ronald J. Bilas, Ronald L. Farrington, Drew A. Reid